Is There Any Good News? (Blog #15)

Today is Wednesday, June 24, 2009 and the leading news stories may cause discomfort to say the least....

Governor Mark Sanford of South Carolina, missing in action for several days, admits to an extra-marital affair and resigns as chair of the GOP governors' organization. Previously, Sanford was thought to be a front runner for the 2012 GOP presidential nomination. It would seem that he is no longer in the running for that position within the GOP party. On top of the extra-marital affair, Sanford's staff lied to cover up for his whereabouts during the last week. At first said to be hiking in the Appalachian Mountains, it turns out that the governor was playing in Argentina.

Then there is the story about new home sales continuing to fall during the month of May 2009 to levels almost 33% below last year's new home sales. There still seems to be a long way to go for any significant recovery of the housing market. Existing home sales did rise 2.4% for the month of May as prices were approximately 17% lower compared to a year ago.

Shock and disbelief follow insanity in a small Iowa town and school district where a nationally recognized high school football coach with over 35 years of service was fatally shot by one of his former players. The shooting took place inside a temporary weight room, because as it turns out this community was nearly devastated a little more than one year ago by a deadly tornado which killed eight people and destroyed the coach's home as well as many others. Several current football players witnessed the shooting and as many as 50 students were inside the high school at the time. Iowa's governor, a former high school football coach himself, stated that the loss will be felt throughout Iowa and the nation.

Perhaps one of the most disturbing news stories I ran across today was a story about the federal government's aid package for individuals and families who are trying to purchase homes in foreclosure. Here is why I find this disturbing. This assistance package will allow those who purchase foreclosed homes or purchase them to restore them prior to resale to receive additional incentives like lower interest rates and down payment assistance. With this program, the government is encouraging new buyers to take advantage of the former owner's misfortune.

"What good is it, my brothers, if a man claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save him? Suppose a brother or sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to him, 'Go, I wish you well; keep warm and well fed,' but does nothing about his physical needs, what good is it? In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead." [James 2:14-17] Time will tell whether the highly debated stimulus package is like those who say, "Be well; keep warm and well fed" without offering real hope or meaningful assistance. I, for one, could use some good news for a change!

~ DB Turnmire

The Amish Paradox (Blog #14)

Some of you are familiar with my fascination with Amish culture and my vociferous reading of Amish fiction by such authors as Beverly Lewis, Cindy Woodsmall, and Wanda Brunstetter. It is easy to speculate about the Amish and their simple lifestyle. From the outside, it may seem that they live an almost idyllic existence. At first, an outsider, or "Englischer" as we are known to the Amish, may get so caught up that he or she imagines what it would be like to live as the Amish do.

The authors which I have read have done extensive research and travelled extensively to the Amish settlements across the United States and Canada. In a couple instances, they themselves have lived or have relatives living in the midst of the Amish community. Because these works of fiction are backed up with real life research, one quickly realizes that the Amish lifestyle is not completely free of "modern" disruptions to life. There are heartaches and disappointments, as well as joy and elation, in the same ways that you and I might experience them.

It would clearly be a misunderstanding to assume that the Amish want nothing to do with the modern world. Theirs is a personal choice not to be influenced by certain conveniences which might lead to worldly pride. However, there are some real paradoxes among the Amish. First, let me state that each Amish settlement is independent of another and free to adjust the rules for living as the group sees fit. Different types and colors of horse drawn buggies are one of the tell tale signs pointing to the different groups.

One of the biggest paradoxes for me is the Amish desire to be free of electricity, house phones, radios and computers in the home. Yet, many Amish depend on their jobs outside the Amish community to help support their families. As Amish farms become smaller and smaller through division, large families are not able to survive on the meager income from the land. As a result, if an Amish man holds a job that requires him to drive a truck, he will drive while at work and return to his horse drawn transportation to and from work. Furthermore, it is common for the Amish to utilize the modern banking system, eat at modern or even fast food restaurants, and hire drivers to take them to tourist attractions, medical appointments or even horse auctions.

Now, if you're thinking that all Amish do not have indoor plumbing or utilize outhouses for bathrooms, that also is incorrect. A number of Amish groups in the 21st century have relaxed their stipulations and now allow propane powered refrigerators, stoves, water heaters and maybe even lights within the house. At the same time, running water may be utilized along with more modern indoor bathrooms complete with showers and toilets. Those Amish men and women who run business may get permission from the local bishop to have a phone or carry a cell phone! One story of a retired Amish couple, who purchased and ran a bed and breakfast, told of they were able to use electricity in the rest of the house as long as they did not utilize it in their own living quarters. As you can tell by now, the Amish world is ripe with exceptions to the outward appearance of a simple uncomplicated lifestyle.

The Amish are faced with the similar types of human life events as their "Englischer" neighbors. They face untimely deaths, accidents which claims lives prematurely, disease which strikes all ages of men, women and children. Babies are born, teenagers are rebellious, young adults leave home on occasion, and couples sometimes struggle to maintain their marriages. Natural disasters, storms, tornadoes and fires affect the Amish as well. Birthdays, holidays and weddings are celebrated within the various communities.

In some ways, it strikes me that the Amish have the best of both worlds. Perhaps that is the fuel for my fascination with Amish culture. The Amish live in a world surrounded by the fast pace of modern culture and technology. On occasion, when required, they make limited use of that technology. On the other hand, for most Amish, their home life is much quieter, simpler and lived at a slower pace.

If I were Amish, I would likely think that the paradox is not the lifestyle lived by the Amish people but the lifestyle lived in the English world outside. With all the modern technology and advancements that should make our lives easier and less frazzled, it seems that we must move even faster to keep up. Now is that an irony or a paradox? Jah, it seems like I'm ferhoodled!

~ DB Turnmire

Almost Not A Blog (Blog #13)

Sometimes, it just happens. You intend to take a "little" nap so you close your eyes, maybe on the sofa, in a chair or on the bed. Then, before you know what happened, you are asleep. And you sleep and sleep and sleep. Hours later, when you finally awaken enough to shut the lights off, close the shades and secure the house for the evening, you are wide awake.

Of course, you don't think you will be wide awake so you decided you are just going to post a picture instead of writing a blog. But you can't decide on which singular picture to post, so you end up compromising on the picture. This picture is much more entertaining at the original website: http://www.awakeinphilly.org/Equipment/cleaning.shtml.

Ironically enough, the picture chosen for this blog post is on the community education website for "Awake In Philly." On their website is a link to "Awake in America". At first, I thought these groups were associate with the American Sleep Apnea Association and their A.W.A.K.E. support groups network across the United States of America. I was wrong! Instead, the Philadelphia based groups are advocates for individuals who have sleep-related conditions. Their advocacy assists with obtaining treatments for individuals without health insurance and educates employers on employees who might be afflicted with various sleep related conditions. The A.W.A.K.E. (Alert, Well, And Keeping Energetic) network offers "mutual-help support groups for persons affected by sleep apnea".

I am quite sure that this blog post (of sorts) will receive at least one comment. At least I will be able to sleep the rest of the night knowing that I did not shirk my duty in writing another blog posting. Fully aware that I am two shy of making 50 blogs if I only compose one per day through July 27, 2009, one of these days expect a surprise. "God Bless and Good Night!"

~ DB Turnmire

Happy Father's Day! (Blog #12)

Happy Father's Day to all of the fathers who celebrated the gift of fatherhood today. It's hard to believe that this is the twenty-eighth Father's Day for me. Of course, when I compare how I look today with the picture accompanying this blog posting, then it is no longer so hard to believe. The little girl in the picture, my daughter Erin, will turn 18 in September 2009. There is one thing that you learn quickly as a father. Children grow up, sometimes too quickly, and then fatherhood takes on a whole new meaning.

Another thing that I ran across this Father's Day, while looking for the picture above, is a certificate that my son, Alan, received for participating in "The 1997 Minnesota Twins Father of the Year Essay Contest". The essay theme for that contest was "What It Takes to Be a Great Dad". I still have the essay packed away for safekeeping. Alan was only seven (7) years old when he entered that contest. I still remember how proud he was that he could write what his thoughts on being a great dad. Alan will be 20 in October.

On Father's Day 2009, my older son, Ryan, is the middle of his annual summer duty with the Minnesota Army National Guard. Now 23, it seems Ryan is beginning to understand the wisdom of his father. I look forward to developing our relationship even further and the possibility of becoming better friends in addition to the father-son relationship. Of course, we are all proud of Ryan's accomplishments and wish him continued success in the future.

The adventures of fatherhood began for me with the birth of my older daughter, Amy. Now married and living in Indiana with her husband, Jeremy, Amy and I continue to enjoy a unique close relationship which began in her early, formative years. I received a text from Amy to wish me a Happy Father's Day today! "Happy Father's Day to the man who is always there for me and raised me to be the woman I am today. Thanks dad!" We look forward to seeing each other and spending time together later this summer.

Happy Father's Day to Bill also! His sons sent text greetings to him on this special day. His younger son, Matt (23) sent him a classic movie, "Whatever Happened to Baby Jane?'' Bill was very excited about that gift. His older son, David (26) surprised both of us with postage stamps he had ordered with a picture of the combined family (we missed Matt that day). It will probably be the only time that I have my picture on a postage stamp. Thanks David!

Bill and I are blessed by our children, as I am sure all fathers are thankful for the gift of loving children. To all fathers who were able to spend this day with their children, Happy Father's Day! For those who are separated by distance or circumstance, Father's Day blessings to each of you as well. Until next Father's Day, " 'The LORD bless you and keep you; the LORD make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you; the LORD turn his face toward you and give you peace.' " [Numbers 6:24-26 NIV]

~ DB Turnmire

The Wonders Of Nature (Blog #11)

For really the first time this summer, Bill and I heard thunder and saw one flash of lightning fairly close. Of course, there have been other storms that have moved through to the east, north, south and west of us. Over Brooklyn Center, however, this was the first real hint of a thunderstorm at our house. (There might have been one a couple months ago when we were sound asleep but that hasn't been verified by anyone.) Very little rain accompanied our mini-thunderstorm. In fact, behind the house, our large trees prevented some of the lawn from even getting wet. Oh, the wonderful marvels of nature!

Imagine my surprise this morning when I walked out of the house shortly after 6:00am and found myself dripped on from the roof above. As I took Reba out for her morning routine, I noticed that the entire lawn is soaked, not with rain but with dew. Then I remembered that the Bible speaks of "dew" as a heavenly gift and a number of Scripture verses speak about the dew of heaven covering the ground. As the Israelites wandered in the wilderness after their deliverance from slavery in Egypt, it was heavenly dew that marked the arrival of their daily bread - manna from above. For the Old Testament followers, dew was considered a blessing from heaven. When you consider that this morning's dew left more water on the lawn than last night's rain, it surely is a blessing in the midst of another dry year.

Then again, is it not true that the most wonderful gifts we receive are often wonderful and unexpected. As human beings, you and I have much to be thankful for. Our bodies are marvels in and of themselves. No, that doesn't mean that we will never have issues due to our lack of care or the natural breakdown of organs or systems within our bodies. Biblical David recognized the gift he had received from his Creator and offers his praise in Psalm 139. "I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well." [Psalm 139:14]

Perhaps the next time you witness a thunderstorm, large or small, you will remember all of the wonders of nature. And the next time you notice the "dew" on the grass, this too is a wonderful gift that provides the blessing of additional moisture to the earth as well. The majestic power of God is illustrated beautifully by the following verses from the Book of Job. "He unleashes his lightning beneath the whole heaven and sends it to the ends of the earth. After that comes the sound of his roar; he thunders with his majestic voice. When his voice resounds, he holds nothing back. God's voice thunders in marvelous ways; he does great things beyond our understanding. He says to the snow, 'Fall on the earth,' and to the rain shower, 'Be a mighty downpour.'" [Job 37:3-6]

Have a wonderful day filled with the marvelous blessings of nature!

~ DB Turnmire

Another Day, Another Scheme! (Blog #10)

Since I consider myself a news junkie, one of my passions is reading the CNN Headline articles. These headlines are part of the sidebar on my personal computer so whenever I am at the computer, I scan the headlines for new and interesting stories. Last evening, I almost could not believe my eyes. Another story about a billionaire who allegedly bilked investors and others out of billions of dollars in what is called an alleged "Ponzi" scheme.

Last summer, I had the opportunity to become intimately aware of Ponzi schemes and their impact on everyday ordinary people like you and me. Named after one of the greatest swindlers in American history, Charles Ponzi, a Ponzi scheme is typically a fraudulent investment scheme during which high rates of return are paid to original investments from the funds of later investors. These types of schemes typically have a short life span because more and more investors are required to keep paying the earlier investors. Often, these schemes are interrupted by legal authorities and the later investors are the biggest losers.

In recent months, there have been two major stories broken about alleged Ponzi schemes that have defrauded investors out of billions for long periods of time up to thirty or forty years. Many are surprised at the sophistication of such schemes that would allow them to continue for such a length of time.

As I said earlier, last summer I became very familiar with Ponzi schemes, their operations and the impact on individuals and families. During a highly publicized federal trial held here in Minneapolis, I was chosen as one of the jurors. I was seated on the jury and at the end of the trial, I was one of twelve men and women who decided the guilt or innocence of the defendant on each of 21 federal charges.

Upon hearing the testimony of each of the witnesses, one began to wonder how anyone could be so gullible as to believe the promises that were being made in return for investments of up to one million dollars. A basic tenet certainly held true in the case I heard. "If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is [too good to be true]!" The question I have for all of these schemes is "how can all of the people working for these individuals not know that something is wrong or illegal with what is taking place?" In our court case, the main perpetrator whose case was dealt with in another jurisdiction had accountants on staff and office staff who took care of mailing out the checks which represented a fraudulent return. There are a couple of possibilities - either they were brainwashed or blackmailed.

The Book of Ecclesiastes says "there is nothing new under the sun" [Ecclesiastes 1:9c]. As long as there are people concerned about their future or struggling to make it, there will be people who come along and promise them things that are "too good to be true". Smooth talking men and women have an ability to con well-meaning individuals out of their life savings or retirement funds. Psalm 62:10 offers an admonition who would obtain another's property or money via dishonest means. "Do not trust in extortion or take pride in stolen goods; though your riches increase, do not set your heart on them."

Not only is there nothing new under the sun, in our day there are new scams arising daily to allow a select few to "get rich quick" at the expense of someone who may be unemployed or otherwise misfortunate. Recently, I responded to a job posting and less than 24 hours later, I was being inudated with emails from different people advertising different jobs for which you might obtain more information by sending money somewhere or ordering a discount package that will show you how to make more money "than you ever could have imagined?" I wonder how many of those are scams!

It is my prayer that you or I will never fall victim to one of these schemes. Join me in praying for the guidance, strength and direction to walk the path on which we will not be held captive to deceit nor will we see fit to deceive others as part of our own scheme to "get rich quick." God grant these things for Jesus' sake. Amen.

~ DB Turnmire

When Opportunity Knocks, Will You Open the Door? (Blog #9)

From a New Testament biblical perspective, one of the most famous portrayals of Jesus Christ is based on the following verse from the book of Revelation. "Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with me." [Revelation 3:20 NIV] This verse has been visualized by numerous artists on canvas, in prints and even stained glass windows. The verse and the renderings raise the question of whether you or I will "open the door" of our hearts to Jesus via faith.

For the moment, let's use the analogy of Jesus standing at the door and knocking in other areas of our lives. Perhaps it is appropriate to do just that, if you consider that God our Creator and Redeemer is the one who guides us and leads us to new opportunities. Do you and I always recognize events and situations in our lives as opportunities? Or are we tempted to get so caught up in negativity and misfortune that we miss the possibilities as they present themselves? I will be the first to admit that sometimes the latter comes more naturally.

Our faith response or lack thereof to Jesus' knocks at our door will have a lasting impact for the rest of our lives. So also, our response or lack thereof to opportunities in our lives carries the possibility of changing the course of the rest of our lives. It is true enough that these types of life changing events may happen more than once in the course of our lives. Over time, we certainly have the inner resources and the capabilities to recover from our failures either to respond at all or to respond correctly to opportunities as they are presented.

In the midst of my blog posting, I have written about following your dreams and living the life you imagined. Surely, there have been missed opportunities in my life, along with events and situations I never would have imagined. There have been pinnacle events and hard crashes. More than once I have, by the grace of God and with His help, risen from the ashes. Through it all, I have been a survivor who leaned on faith a whole lot more than people realize.

"In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. hese have come so that your faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may be proved genuine and may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed. Though you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy, for you are receiving the goal of your faith, the salvation of your souls. " [1 Peter 3:6-9 NIV]

~ DB Turnmire

Never Stop Believing! (Blog #8)

"Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see." [Hebrews 11:1 NIV] In these times, 2009, many may find it difficult to live by faith or even to have faith or hold onto hope. However, if you and I have nothing to believe in or nothing to hope for, then the outlook is fairly dismal.

Please make no mistake. It is not always easy to hold on to our faith and look forward to the unseen and unknown. Living by faith is a struggle in and of itself. The writer of the Book of Hebrews goes on to describe how the ancients lived by faith and God's Word. Consider Noah, who set about building the largest vessel known on earth as directed by a heavenly voice. What faith that must have taken to undertake such a project and suffer ridicule at the hands of those hurling insults and other objects at Noah as he worked.

God may not be asking you or me to build an ark, but life may be just as challenging as it was for Noah. The question is whether or not we are able to hold on to hope until the future is unveiled. If we choose to believe, we have another promise "'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the LORD, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.'" [Jeremiah 29:11 NIV] For me, the last eight months have been filled with a fair amount of challenges, heartaches and disappointments.

There is a reminder for all of us which is found in a letter written by Paul to the church at Philippi. He writes, "Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal..." [Philippians 3:13b-14a NIV] Of course, Paul is setting forth an example from his own life and his own faith as he discusses keep your eyes on the heavenly goal. From faith's perspective, Paul goes on to say, "All of us who are mature should take such a view of things." [Philippians 3:15a NIV] People who are guided by faith will consider Paul's instruction and apply to the rest of their lives as well.

Therefore, never stop believing that there is a greater purpose and a goal which you and I may not yet see. No one ever said it was going to be easy. In reality, it will take every ounce of strength, determination and will power that we have to keep the faith, to hold on to hope, and to keep pressing on toward the goal which lay ahead. "May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit." [Romans 15:13 NIV]

~ DB Turnmire

R*E*S*P*E*C*T! (Blog #7)

Otis Redding wrote and recorded a song entitled "R-E-S-P-E-C-T" before Aretha Franklin recorded the song and turned it into a big hit. Some dictionary definitions of the word respect include: "to feel or show deferential regard for, esteem; to avoid violation or interference with; willingness to show consideration or appreciation". [The Free Dictionary By FARLEX]

In the Ten Commandments, God spoke saying, "Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the LORD your God is giving you." [Exodus 20:12 NIV] We generally would expect to learn respect from our parents. All of the Ten Commandments are based on love and respect, first of God, then our parents and fellow human beings. We are taught to respect human life, property, reputation, honor and dignity. In the same way as children are to respect their parents and those in authority, the same is true in reverse. Writing to the Christians at Colossae, the apostle Paul wrote "Children, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord." He also wrote "Fathers, do not embitter your children, or they will become discouraged." [Colossians 3:20-21 NIV]

Of course, aside from the parent - child relationship, there are many situations and occasions that call for respect. As stewards of the earth, you and I are expected to respect nature and to make every effort to preserve and protect its valuable resources and natural beauty. If we are stewards of an apartment, a house or any other type of property, we are expected to care for it whether it belongs to us or not. Abuse of property or failure to exercise good stewardship is not only disrespectful to the property and the owner of the property but also to the Creator who sets the standards for respect.

To this point, we have focused primarily on respect of the earth itself and property entrusted to our care. It should be no surprise that respect takes on many forms and shapes. We are also called to respect others in our speech and actions. It is clearly disrespectful to lead someone to believe that you have respect for their values and standards, only to let them down by choosing to do the opposite of what is requested and expected. When we knowingly violate another person's standards or property, you and I are in reality showing contempt for that person.

So if the question of respect or disrespect is one that challenges you, think about the alternatives and the impact your actions will have on someone or something.

~ DB Turnmire

Is Your Vision Blurry? (Blog #6)

Two different events, rather insignificant in and of themselves, led me to the title and topic for today's blog. First of all, earlier this afternoon when we stopped at a store and it was lightly raining, I decided that I would leave my glasses in the car. In the past fifteen or so years that I have worn prescription eyeglasses and spent many hours working with computers, my eyes have worsened. Even though I am able to pass the vision exam for driving without my glasses, it is not a good idea for me to drive without them. Today, in the store without my glasses, everything was a bit blurry. As far as reading signs at any distance, well that is not happening anymore in my life, unless someday I should take the step to have corrective laser eye surgery.

A second instance which is much less dramatic occurred when I first logged into this blog. In the Google ad section, there was a bold headline for lasik eye surgery which asked the simple question, "Is your vision blurry?" Not only did that question remind me of events earlier this afternoon, it also reminded me of another way of looking at blurred vision. This secondary meaning is the focus of this blog posting.

Have you ever been so close to a situation that your vision is blurred, your perspective is clouded becase you have chosen to believe certain things about a situation or individuals? Even if things are presented with evidence which would paint a different picture than you have established in your mind and thoughts, you refuse to believe differently. On the other hand, it could be that you have become so "dead set against" an idea or individual that even if there is evidence to the contrary, you may refuse to change how you see things, your beliefs or opinions.

All of us may, from time to time, find our vision blurred. It could even be the case that we are so caught up with preserving our own well-being that we cannot even see when our actions may actually affect others or even bring them harm. Jesus once taught using the following parable: "Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother's eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? How can you say to your brother, 'Let me take the speck out of your eye,' when all the time there is a plank in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother's eye." [Matthew 7:3-5 NIV] This parable reminds me that I need to deal with the speck in my own eye, whatever is causing my vision to be blurred before I start correcting others.

Things are not always as they appear, especially if we are looking at things with blurred vision.

~ DB Turnmire

Difficult Transitions (Blog #5)

Transitions may be wonderful times in our lives. In fact, we may be excited and eager for certain transitions to take place. Such transitions might include graduation from high school, the change that takes place when two people move from being single to married and partnered, or the transition that takes place when one leaves a job to pursue a better, more fulfilling opportunity.

Other transitions that we face in our lives may not be so pleasant or enjoyable. On the other hand, there may be transitions that are bittersweet as well. For example, parents may experience joy in knowing children have grown to adulthood yet, at the same time, they may also have a sense of sadness knowing that they have now become empty-nesters. One who is retiring after a long career may be joyous and sad at the same time. It is very common for retirees to have difficulty making the transition from working every day to a more relaxed and casual pace of life.

There are also those transitions which we are totally unprepared for. Situations may be thrust upon completely without warning and preparation. For example, a few million individuals have found themselves without jobs in the last few years. These individuals have face transitions without preparation, anticipating further transitions and further life changes. Millions have been forced to make the transition from living in their own homes to rental homes and apartments, living with friends or relatives, or even finding themselves homeless. Not only are we unprepared for these types of transitions, we may never become comfortable with the changes we are forced to make.

Heavenly Father, you know the innermost yearning of our hearts and you know the path you have chosen for us to follow. Send your Holy Spirit, we pray, to heal our pains in the face of unwanted transitions which may be thrust upon us. Give us courage and wisdom to overcome our heartaches and guide us toward a greater good in our lives. Watch over us, guide us, protect and direct us along the path of righteousness. In Jesus' name, Amen!

~DB Turnmire

Flag Day (Blog #4)

You're a grand old flag,

You're a high flying flag

And forever in peace may you wave.

You're the emblem ofThe land I love.

The home of the free and the brave.

Ev'ry heart beats true'neath the Red, White and Blue,

Where there's never a boast or brag.

Should auld acquaintance be forgot,

Keep your eye on the grand old flag.

June 14 is National Flag Day in the United States of America every year. I remember talking about it in elementary school near the end of every school year. Since we would already be out of school on summer vacation, we were reminded to "fly our flags" on June 14. Almost each year, I would also hear that one of my classmates celebrated her birthday on June 14 so she was excited that is what a national observance day.

Of course, some of you may never even have heard of Flag Day. Flag Day commemorates the adoption of the flag of the United States of America in 1777. First celebrated in New York, President Woodrow Wilson issued a proclamation in 1916 establishing Flag Day as an official observance. However, Congress did not get in on the act until 1949 when Flag Day became an official Act of Congress. Not an official federal holiday, the state of Pennsylvania has celebrated Flag Day as a state holiday since 1937. Quincy, Massachussetts holds the longest running Flag Day parade and Troy, New York attracts the largest crowds to its Flag Day parade each year.

All of us will recognize that today has passed with very little fanfare, at least here in the upper midwestern reaches of the United States of America. Maybe there was a brief mention of the observance on a local news show. Aside from that and the notice of a few extra flags around town flying today, we hardly noticed anything different about June 14, 2009. This year, 2009, we have not only the opportunity to observe National Flag Day but also National Flag week, beginning today.

"Our flag’s journey has been long. It has seen our Nation through war and peace, triumph and tragedy. It flew above the walls of Fort Sumter, South Carolina, at the outset of the Civil War. It stood on Mount Suribachi on the island of Iwo Jima during World War II. During the Civil Rights Movement, determined protesters on the streets of Selma, Alabama, proudly displayed its colors. Following the attacks of September 11, 2001, Old Glory flew over the southwestern wall of the Pentagon and the rubble of the World Trade Center. Today, the men and women of the United States Armed Forces bear our flag as they serve bravely around the world.

The flag is still more than a historical symbol: it is part of our culture. In our schools children pledge allegiance to our flag and recite the ideals upon which our Nation was founded. Families sit on their front porches under a billowing Stars and Stripes. And each day as the flag is raised above military installations and government buildings, we are reminded of the great sacrifices that have been made in defense of our Nation.

The Stars and Stripes tells our Nation’s story and embodies its highest ideals. Its display reminds us of America’s promise and guides us toward a brighter tomorrow."

[FLAG DAY AND NATIONAL FLAG WEEK, 2009

Presidential Proclamation, 11 June 2009

President Barack Obama]

God bless our native land! Firm may it ever stand

Thro' storm and night!

When the wild tempests rave, Ruler of wind and wave

Do Thou our country save By Thy great might.

So shall our prayers arise To God above the skies;

On Him we wait.

Thou who art ever nigh, Guarding with watchful eye,

To Thee aloud we cry, God save the State! Amen.

_____________

~ DB Turnmire

Is A Picture Really Worth A Thousand Words? (Blog #3)

It is time to dissect another of the old and worn adages. This time it's "a picture is worth a thousand words". Is a picture really worth a thousand words?

Now I would be the first to agree that in certain moments of history, pictures do speak volumes. For example, on September 11, 2001, the photos taken of the two world trade towers in flames after the planes crashed into them spoke volumes to the hearts and minds of millions of people here in the United States of America and around the world. Later photos of the debris and ashes following the collapse of the towers made the destruction and havoc clear to all of us. Likewise, photos of the horrific Interstate 35W bridge collapse in Minneapolis on August 1, 2007 sent shock waves around the world. How could such a tragedy happen in the United States?

Aside from unrehearsed historical photos, there are those snapshots of life and time taken without preparation or staging. These too are able to fit the old cliche that "a picture is worth a thousand words". In antithesis of those candid snippets, there are those photos which sometimes appear "perfect" as the subject or subjects pose for the picture. By definition, some of the meanings of the word "pose" include: 1. To assume or hold a particular position or posture, as in sitting for a portrait; 2. To affect a particular mental attitude; 3. To represent oneself falsely; pretend to be other than what one is.

If we really think about, it may be easier to understand my willingness to challenge the old adage. How many of us have received photo Christmas cards of a family, maybe even someone related to us, and every member of the family has a big smile on their face like there isn't a care in the world for any of them? The question is "what is really going on behind the scenes"? In the most stage of photos, it is really what the picture does not show that is worth a thousand words.

As human beings, we have mastered the art of the cover up. In fact, professional models are paid hundreds of thousands of dollars to hide themselves and show the camera what it wants to see. They are trained to set aside their own emotions, concerns and heartaches to "get into character" and sell the product or clothing line for which they are being paid. In a similar way, you and I may set aside emotional stresses, mental anguish, personal conflicts and pain to "pose" for friends and family. It's as if we say to ourselves, "there is no sense letting the real me show. I am not sure everyone else could handle it if I did. In fact, I am not sure I could handle myself."

It is a good thing there is One who sees us for who we really are - the individuals behind the photos.

O LORD, you have searched me and you know me.
You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar.
You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways.
Before a word is on my tongue you know it completely, O LORD.

[Psalm 139:1-4 NIV]

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"Praise [God] because [we are] fearfully and wonderfully made; [His] works are wonderful, I know that full well. " [Psalm 139:14 NIV]

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~ DB Turnmire

Remembering Simpler Times (Blog #2)

Remember when you were young and less jaded? For some of us, life was simpler then. Cell phones, digital cameras and personal computers were unheard of when the picture of me posted to the right was taken. No emails, SMS text messages, blog posts or even the Internet existed in the mid 1960s.

In first grade, we wrote our writing, spelling or other written assignments on "Big Chief" writing tablets. They usually had a red cover with a picture of an Indian chief, with really "wide" writing spaces with a dotted line in the middle separating the top and bottom lines. As we developed first our printing penmanship, and then our "cursive" handwriting, that dotted line served as our guide for the proper formation of our letters.

I remember all through elementary school, our homeroom teacher or the art teacher would guide my classmates and me through making hand made greeting cards for Mother's Day, Valentine's Day and maybe even Thanksgiving or Christmas. Sometimes, we even planted flowers or made other simple gifts for our mothers for one of those occasions. My mother kept a number of those things, and a few years ago decided that I should have them back. The photo above, which was seen after the film was removed from the camera and most likely taken to the local drug store (as we called them back then) to be sent off for development. With no same day photo locations, it probably took several days for the pictures to be returned to my teacher before it could be attached to the Mother's Day card in which I hand wrote the greeting.

During this highly reflective period of my life, it seemed appropriate for some of my blogs in this series of 50 to offer a look back at "how things used to be". I did notice from the picture above that the saying "Some things never change" is indeed true. Flannel shirts, jeans and "tennis shoes" (though not used to actually play a game of tennis) are still the most comfortable clothing in my wardrobe. One thing that surprised me was that the cuffs on my jeans. That is one thing I simply am unable to tolerate at this juncture in my life. Then again, I was always quite short for my age until later in high school. It would have been natural for my parents to buy jeans that were longer so that I could "grow" into them. That's just the way it was.

If you find yourself pining for simpler times, maybe you should take a look back at your own life. Pull out some old pictures and think of what was your life was life "back then". Perhaps you will find that there are some ways in which your life might be simpler again. Until next time, have a great time "remembering simpler times"!

~ DB Turnmire

50 / 50 Vision (Blog #1)

At first blush it may seem that anyone who actually had 50/50 vision should proceed immediately to the nearest eye doctor to have his or her eyes checked. Perhaps one would think that some type of corrective lenses or procedure would be necessary to help the poor soul see all of the things which have been missed while stumbling around. In reality, however, 50/50 vision is exactly the same as 20/20 vision which is considered by most to be "perfect" sight. 50/50 vision means that one can see at 50 feet what a normal eye should see at 50 feet. The same is true for 20/20 vision - a person's eyes are able to see at 20 feet what a normal eye should see at 20 feet.

In my case, I am not speaking about vision or how well a certain subject is able to see from a certain distance. For me, in this blog posting, 50/50 vision refers to my vision of completing 50 blog posts by July 27, 2009. The reason for my ambitious plan to blog comes on the heels of some scathing remarks made some about my "failure" to blog daily. Somewhat as a test my determination and commitment, I have decided that it is fitting to blog 50 times culminating with Blog #50 on July 27, 2009.

For those who are still checking and reading my blog, feel free to comment or offer topic suggestions for future posts. I hope you find the next 49 blog posts interesting enough to keep you coming back to read more. Happy Summer!

~ DB Turnmire

Pondering History

There is an old cliche which states that "history repeats itself". Of course, sometimes events in another person's life will remind us of our own past. While a similar situation will present a new perspective for us when it happens to someone else, that is our opportunity to share any kernels of wisdom we have learned through our experiences. Having said that, I decided to share another poem which was written a number of years ago...

LONGING TO BE LOVED

April 2, 2002 ~ David Turnmire

We spend much of our lives waiting, searching, dreaming, and hoping
For the right person.
Along the way, we compromise our hopes, our dreams, our values, ourselves.

We attempt to find happiness and we strive to love.
Often we overlook what we perceive to be another’s shortcomings.
So we offer our hearts, our minds, our souls, our bodies
As we commit ourselves to something different than we hoped for.

For a time, we are comfortable and outwardly at peace.
Wearied by the journey, our inner voice is only a whisper
And easily ignored.

Then, one day, it happens…a voice, a face, a glance, a thought.
The stirring begins and the cries of our inner voice grow louder.
A conflict within us reminds us
Of our hopes, our dreams, our values, ourselves.

From day to day, our personal struggle weighs on our hearts and our minds.
There is no doubt our love is true.
Yet, that still, small voice pleads to be heard.

Perhaps there is no answer to this life’s dilemma
But what do we do when our hearts would be torn apart.
One thing can be certain…
A missed opportunity to love is a lost opportunity to love.

Therefore, this question remains:
“Is it better to have loved and lost than never to have loved at all?”

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For those who have been through the pain of being in a serious relationship that has ended, somewhere along the line someone will tell you that "it is better to have loved and lost than never to have loved at all". In many instances, that is true. However, I would contend that such a statement is not always true. There have been times in my own life when I did not feel that at all. Fortunately, time does have a way of healing old wounds and changing one's perspective. Each one of us will have to answer the question for ourselves. "Is it better to have loved and lost than never to have loved at all?

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~ DB Turnmire