Monday, November 30, 2009

 
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Tuesday, October 13, 2009

Jesus Only

Sitting in a worship service the other day listening to another uninspiring talk full of opinions and pop psych made me long for the days when preachers actually walked with Christ and spoke fondly of their relationship with Him. I miss Him, Christ that is. He has been beside me for so many years, and yet it seems that I have not fellowshipped with Him or with His followers in ages.

Where is the church? No, not that lifeless monument on the hillside built to fit a crowd, where is the church? The people that Christ died and gave his life for. The church, that was left on earth to spread the news of He who died. The church that is to care for, love, encourage, and support each other. Am I a part of the church? Evidently not. I am hurting more than I have hurt in my life. I am depressed and seeking anything to bring me out of this despair, yet no one knows or cares.

Have I ceased to pray. No. I have prayed more than ever, maybe more like plead and beg, but the answers do not seem to come. The other day I was working a job and took a break for lunch. I was alone and sitting and bowed my head and closed my eyes to pray...I suddenly felt like such an idiot. It felt as if Christ was saying, "hey, I'm right here, sitting across from you. Talk to Me." I looked up and had a conversation with the Lord, thanking Him for my family, my health, my work, and the ability to have a conversation with Him. It was so real. I think that is what He wants. Jesus wants me to treat Him like He is really there, otherwise it is ritual...another dead ritual.

I love you Father. I love you Jesus. Thank you for dying for me, paying the cost and conquering death.

Alice Cooper, Do My Math!

It is amazing to me that I am actually back in school. During high school, I could not wait to move on, making the stupid claim and singing loudly the lyrics of an Alice Cooper song, “school’s out for summer…school’s out forevah!” As most of us who have aged, I now realize that learning never ends and have found myself in a multitude of classrooms in the years since 1984. The difference now is that I actually look forward to the majority of classes and have learned to enjoy the act of learning as much as I look forward to the end goal. I would be lying, however, if I said I felt great about every subject. There is one that haunted me back in the day -- to my children ancient history -- and that is anything arithmetic. For the most part, I do not have an equal reaction to other topics. Science may have an explanation for the different physical responses I have to the following subjects; maybe it has something to do with being left or right brained, but in the end, it does not matter the reason, just the effect. What I tend to enjoy the most is writing and what I most abhor is indeed math.

Math. The very mention of the word makes my chest tighten and my stomach begins to turn. From all logical perspective, this should not happen, considering the fact that mathematics is a normal part of everyday life. Rarely does a day go by that my mind is not engaged to solve some type of problem concerning numbers. It could be a budget question, my children’s homework, or the comparison of a sale price to a bulk price, and yet, everything with numbers tends to affect me equally. I am not necessarily bad at math, indeed I have struggled and worked to be somewhat proficient, but it has never come easy or been enjoyable. Even math puzzles affect me. My wife is an avid Soduku fan, and many times, as she has worked a puzzle before turning out the light, she has shown me a considerably tough puzzle and asked if I have any insight. My chest tightens and I become uncomfortable, frustrated, and irritable. I have since learned, as has she, to just walk away and never consider such things. I will accomplish what I must, but I will not purposely torture myself.

Surprisingly, math is something that I must attempt in total silence. Surprise, because in most other subjects this is not the case. When it is time to center my attention on a math assignment, then the time has come for the world to cease its groaning so that I may focus. The television must be off, the stereo silenced, the dog put outside, and no one talking. Even the movement of a breeze causes constriction and brain strain. I have actually donned hearing protection and if it were possible, I would have a soundproof room, lit up like a football field, with a simple desk, paper, calculator, and chair present.
There is one other obvious problem with mathematics in my life. Whenever I tackle math work, I want it over with as soon as possible. This attitude causes inane mistakes. Many times, the difference between an ‘A’ and a ‘C’ on tests in this subject is not a misunderstanding of operation, but a mistake of speed.
Mercifully, I do not have the physical complications of math in other areas of study, and with writing, it is actually much the opposite. Although very much a part of my everyday life, as much as numbers, words seem to come easy. I cherish the moments when my children come seeking advice in writing, spelling, or grammar. I love the discussion of words and ideas and look forward to reading what they have written and the opportunity to help them develop their thoughts. For me, writing is a welcome challenge and I look forward to wading in chest deep in ideas and see what flows over the edge.

When the time comes to develop a piece of written word, I must be where there is commotion. I want the children playing, the music streaming, and activity happening that does not pertain to me. The greatest environment for my words to flow is a busy café with people coming, going, and conversing around me. It is then that my mind un-tenses and begins to release thoughts that were caged, and the words can flow like water over a falls. Often, I begin a conversation with a total stranger and have an interesting discussion about the topic at hand to obtain new angles and insights. Hours may pass without notice. Silence is not an option. If in silence I had to write, give me an abacus. The quiet itself begins to close in on me and I beg release from its clutches.

Another difference between math and composition is the amount of time that is spent on crafting words. As with Ernest and Julio with their wine, I want time for my ideas to ferment. Prior to writing my first words, be it on paper or computer, I have written and edited many things in my mind. I must admit, that were it not for a deadline it may be that my thoughts would never make it to completion. Some papers are finished and turned in without reaching the plateau that I expect, but I enjoy the challenge and press on to perfect my attempts.

Math and composition are a part of my life, one an antagonist and the other a friend; however, I love learning and I am thrilled to be back in an environment of active education and must admit that I appreciate the challenge of academia. At the end of the day, I will succeed in all matters math, but will enjoy most things written.

The State of Reporting

“Wilson’s actions Wednesday, in other words, seem vastly out of character.”

I think integral reporting is a thing of the past. I am fully aware that editorials are someone’s biased opinions, but bias without thought seems to be the norm anymore and some of the conclusions beg some obvious questions that are ignored.

Recently, Congressman Joe Wilson blurted out loudly in a joint session, being addressed by the President, causing uproar among the press and the democrats. The hubbub surrounds the breaking of etiquette, civility, and tradition by a single member in the congress, but I am intrigued by the comment of Kathleen Parker stating that the actions seem vastly out of character by the Congressman. If the actions are out of character, then the question should be asked, why? Why would a Congressman known for his etiquette and class become so frustrated that he breaks with decorum and becomes belligerent in such a public manner?

This is a question that has escaped the pen and comments of the press in this latest go-round. Could it be that there is validity to his frustration? Maybe we should sit him down and ask the obvious question. What does he know that we do not? Maybe the lack of integrity that is emanating from the lips of the leader of the free world was too much and put Joe over the top.

Along those lines, revelation came the next day by the organization Factcheck.org that there were many facts misstated by the President during his speech. (http://www.factcheck.org/2009/09/obamas-health-care-speech/) Although the exact timing of the outburst was concerning coverage for illegal aliens, there were many misstatements of fact up until that point, and could have been enough to put Joe Wilson over the top causing him to act “out of character.” There is language in the bill that excludes coverage for illegals, but there is no enforcement mechanism which provides a loophole to those who are not legally in America. The Republicans had offered an amendment to the bill that would have put teeth to the denial of coverage, but it was unilaterally rejected and known to the President.

I do not know the answer to the question and may be wrong, but let us have an honest discussion that considers all possibilities and forgo the preconceived notions that are thrust upon us without thought or investigative techniques that were employed by reporters of old.

Friday, May 1, 2009

 
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My Lovely Daughter in Africa.
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Friday, April 24, 2009

Sorry.

Hey. Sorry it has been a while since I have posted any update here, or anywhere for that matter. I have been a little overwhelmed with everything, not necessarily in a bad way, but still exhausted. Mom continues to grow weaker, and she has very noticeably lost weight. She mostly refuses to eat but will snack on yogurt or pudding on some days. I think Dad is becoming scared and overwhelmed. Please pray for him. He is starting to realize (as I am) how much Mom kept him straight with paperwork and such. Mom always new right where everything was in the house. He has begged her in tears at times to eat and get stronger. I hurt for him.

My kids have been very sweet and good with Mom and all that is going on. They will be stronger for it, though when Mom has gone they will hurt.

Thank you Father for the blessed hope.

Wednesday, April 15, 2009

A new day

Great is his faithfulness; his mercies begin afresh each day.

~ Lamentations 3:23, NLT

Surprisingly, Mom ate quite a bit yesterday. She still likes to talk and will keep you for hours reminiscing if you've got the time, which is something I have to work at, though I hate to admit it. So many things going on, yet the need to be there for Mom.

Dad is struggling, physically. His patience seems to be growing, though at times he is greatly tested. I worry for him. Monday, he had spoken with a neighbor who said his father had passed away with circumstances similar to Mom. He went on to share that his mother, who was the picture of health, passed away 12 days later. It seemed to shake Dad. I heard Dad say that he was hoping to do some more traveling, and I know he would, but it would probably never happen now. He really wanted to travel with Mom.

Some days I really don't want to grow old...even so, Lord come quickly...

Tuesday, April 14, 2009

Who am I?

“I do not understand my own actions because I do not do what I want to. But I do the very thing that I hate. … I can will what is right but I cannot do it. For I do not do the good that I want, but the evil I do not want is what I do. Now, if I do what I do not want, it is no longer I who does it but the sin that dwells within me. … Wretched person that I am. Who will rescue me from this body of death, from this life of sin? Thanks be to God through Jesus Christ our Lord.

Sunday, April 12, 2009

Ressurection Morn.

Good blessed morning to everyone. It is because of this day so very long ago that we have hope, that great and blessed hope.

Yesterday, Mom got a phone call from her Aunt Ethel (my great aunt) and I thought, "well, this might be encouraging for Mom." After all, Aunt Ethel is 93 years old and should have some wisdom and insight. Her words of encouragement?; "I'm 93 years old and I wish I could just lay down and die."

In her defense, she has had her share of struggles and is nearly blind. But, in the end, it is good to be able to say, "to die is gain." What a thought. Is gain the opposite of loss. I believe it is. When my mother has passed, she has gained everything and lost nothing. Sure, we will have lost her presence here, but it would be selfish to have her stay and suffer when so much is to be gained. What is left for us here? When Mom has "gained" home, surely her reply would be for her children; "Let your lives be Christ, and to die is gain."

Mom has not really changed much in the last few days. Hospice brought in a hospital bed, but we do not yet have the sheets for it. It should be a help when it is usable. Mom has not been eating more than a few nibbles, and has refused her medicines for a few days. Thank you all for your prayers and kind words.

Thursday, April 9, 2009

God is so good...

Well, I got home tonight, (after a very busy day, albeit, I did have a good ride again on an Indian) I went in and spent some time talking with Mom. We discussed Zane Grey books and some of the locations in the books. I then explained to her that we were having a couple of friends from church come by to be witnesses for her living will and power of attorney to assign me as Mom's proxy. We had an emotional moment as she assured me these were her wishes.

I went on to let her know how good of a Mother she has been, and she readily agreed. She then ate some potatoes and onions and some Tapioca pudding.

When our friends showed up to witness the will and poa, I explained the documents to them and that I had already gone over them with Mom, but that it could be emotional. Interestingly, it turned out to be a very enjoyable time, reminiscing about us boys and Granny's house (which our friends had purchased and remodeled,) and Mom was laughing and in good spirit. When it came time for the paperwork, it was not awkward or emotional and it was a real blessing. We prayed together and said our "goodnights" and "love you's".

In other news; hospice came by today and took over care of Mom. They are bringing a hospital bed tomorrow, and will actually provide many of Mom's medicines and her adult diapers. I think they will be a great help and relief to Dad.

I want to thank each of you who are taking the time to read my ramblings and to pray for the Poore family. It is a great privilege to know the Lord and to have brothers and sisters in Christ who care.

Wednesday, April 8, 2009

A very nice ride.

Today was an incredible day in good ole Kansas and I took full advantage by grabbing a new Indian and going for a ride...there's nothing like it.

Mom ate Malt-o-Meal twice today along with some fruit. I don't know if she is getting any stronger, but she is eating a little.

We had a visit from a Home health care provider today to see about the possibility of them helping til Mom could get stronger...they did not think they were the ones for the job. Their comment was that the end result of their services must be the improvement of the patient. In their opinion, Mom would not get better and needs the service of Hospice. If you are familiar with this, then you understand what shape Mom is in.

I had Legal Zoom draw up a living will with a DNR. That is her wish. Now the hard and emotional task is to get it signed by Mom in front of two witnesses. I am so thankful that we know the Lord. His Grace is sufficient. Pray for Dad. We love you all.

Tuesday, April 7, 2009

A nicer Kansas day.

Well, today was a little nicer day weather wise. The wind was not as strong, and the temperature was normal. I have had a very busy week.

Dad got Mom up during the day and had her sit in her chair. She ate some Malt-o-Meal and some grapes. This evening she did not want to get out of bed or eat supper. Tonight we let her have her way. It was more peaceful, but were we right?

Monday, April 6, 2009

Mom

Mom is not doing so well today. Yesterday was actually a pretty decent day, and I guess this morning she did ok. Judy and Josi came down and helped her with a shower and she ate some breakfast.

Tonight, however, was a different story. She has fought to be moved, fought to sit, fought to eat. If she refuses to eat, she cannot take her medicines.

To say it is trying is an understatement. Mom is very emotional in a bad way. When she gets upset she makes Dad upset and Kameron and Ali are very distraught. Please pray as we struggle to adjust to the new Mom, for our attitudes, and for wisdom. I love Mom so very much and hate to see her in this way. I know she longs to go home.

Sunday, April 5, 2009

Kamo and Mom

Mom asked if we would look at pictures with her after breakfast. This is her explaining to Kameron who everyone is.
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Mom, Palm Sunday

I am sitting here listening to my son Kameron practice his trumpet, a sound that is somehow pleasing for Mom. Actually, he is quite the inspiring young musician.

Mom continues to fight efforts to be helped, insisting she just wants to go to sleep and go to heaven. She wants to see Raymond Joseph. Surprisingly, after much screaming and resisting to get in her wheel chair, and refusing all food, she clearly said, "I would eat some Malt-O-Meal, I always liked that.". She ate a whole serving and took her meds herself.

The question arises to me, though, about honoring her wishes and letting her have her dignity in death, or to continue forced compliance in the midst of anger, high blood pressures and aggravation, even to the expense of Dad's health? Mom knows the Lord, and all of us know that for her to be absent from her body is to be present with the Lord.

So? Do we selfishly fight with her for fear of loss and freeing of our conscience that we tried to extend life, or do we humbly submit to her wishes and trust our loving merciful God?
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Saturday, April 4, 2009

African Mick

Hey. Just wanted to let you know that Brittni has made it to Africa and we have spoken with her a couple of times. Please continue to pray for her and that she will be a blessing and that she will be blessed.

Monday, March 30, 2009

Saying Goodbye.

We sent Brittni off to Nigeria today. She will be gone until the end of June, working in an orphanage. Please remember to pray for her to be used of God.
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Sunday, March 29, 2009

Riding an Indian

What a great day to ride an Indian in the Gyp Hills.
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Wednesday, March 18, 2009

Fruits of our labor

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Tuesday, March 17, 2009

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Sunday, March 15, 2009

Camping with the Mo ...

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Thursday, March 12, 2009

r12 Surrender

Here is a video from Living on the Edge ministries, Chip Ingram, who I respect greatly and who is one of the best Bible teachers I've heard in a long time. The series is called R12 (Romans 12) and is about being all that Christ intended us to be. I will post one video a week here and would love to discuss this with anyone who reads this blog. Leave your comments below and may God bless you.

Below this video, you will find questions to answer. Please answer these for yourself and don't feel that you have to share, but please do if you want.



1. I know and feel that I should follow through and make that decision to “surrender” to God, but, for some reason I just can’t bring myself to that sort of commitment. What is the danger to me if I don’t make that commitment?

2a. How should I face and surrender the addiction(s) in my life over to God?


2b. What will happen if I don’t face the addictions in my life?


3. What ultimately happens to my soul when I choose at times to live a life for God and other times for myself?


4. If I make the decision to surrender, I know it will affect my life and I will lose some of my friends. They won’t like me or want to be with me anymore. What can I do to not lose them?

5. Can you tell me if a person that is not fully surrendered to Christ is a Christian or is not a Christian?

Wednesday, March 11, 2009

What a great thing to learn your phone can video record.

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The Dream

Last night I had the most incredible dream I've ever had and I didn't want to wake up.

I was standing in a long line of people in the countryside surrounded by cliffs (much like Yeposa, Mexico) and I looked up at the cliffs and thought I was seeing hug "flying foxes" moving around. Then I looked to the gradual sloping hills and saw the same movement and realized it wasn't an animal at all ...

It was trees coming to life ... Coming to life and dancing around singing praise ... Then at the very moment of realization, the brown earth broke forth in blooming flowers and myself and the line of people all at once realized that Jesus had returned and Earth was breaking forth in life and praise ... I was overwhelmed with joy ... Joy to the point of exploding ... Greater than the greatest moment or feeling I've ever known ... Real joy ... And I woke up and had tears of joy and sadness that I had woke up!

The dream has not left me and I've wondered aol day what it meant and am still pondering as I go to sleep this night and want to go back again ... To see my friend, Jesus.
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Friday, February 20, 2009

Quote

"Now that's a real motorcycle.". - father to his 9 year old daughter (Tulsa rod and custom show)
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The tortuous view from our booth.
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This Tulsa steakhouse is called "the Sputter" and was incredible.
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This weekend I am in Tulsa with the Indians, meeting interesting people and trying to find a local joint with good food.
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