August 31, 2010, 8 p.m. (in fulfillment of campaign promise to end the war begun by the Bush-Cheney administration in Baghdad and Iraq itself "seeking weapons of mass destruction" and "deposing/executing Saddam Hussein and successors")
SPEECH transcript -- from media version posted online
"Tonight, I’d like to talk to you about the end of our combat mission in Iraq, the ongoing security challenges we face, and the need to rebuild our nation here at home. I know this historic moment comes at a time of great uncertainty for many Americans. We have now been through nearly a decade of war. We have endured a long and painful recession. And sometimes in the midst of these storms, the future that we are trying to build for our nation — a future of lasting peace and long-term prosperity may seem beyond our reach. But this milestone should serve as a reminder to all Americans that the future is ours to shape if we move forward with confidence and commitment. It should also serve as a message to the world that the United States of America intends to sustain and strengthen our leadership in this young century.
From this desk, seven and a half years ago, President Bush announced the beginning of military operations in Iraq. Much has changed since that night. A war to disarm a state became a fight against an insurgency. Terrorism and sectarian warfare threatened to tear Iraq apart. Thousands of Americans gave their lives; tens of thousands have been wounded. Our relations abroad were strained. Our unity at home was tested.
These are the rough waters encountered during the course of one of America’s longest wars. Yet there has been one constant amidst those shifting tides. At every turn, America’s men and women in uniform have served with courage and resolve. As Commander-in-Chief, I am proud of their service. Like all Americans, I am awed by their sacrifice, and by the sacrifices of their families.
The Americans who have served in Iraq completed every mission they were given. They defeated a regime that had terrorized its people. Together with Iraqis and coalition partners who made huge sacrifices of their own, our troops fought block by block to help Iraq seize the chance for a better future. They shifted tactics to protect the Iraqi people; trained Iraqi Security Forces; and took out terrorist leaders. Because of our troops and civilians — and because of the resilience of the Iraqi people — Iraq has the opportunity to embrace a new destiny, even though many challenges remain.
So tonight, I am announcing that the American combat mission in Iraq has ended. Operation Iraqi Freedom is over, and the Iraqi people now have lead responsibility for the security of their country.
This was my pledge to the American people as a candidate for this office. Last February, I announced a plan that would bring our combat brigades out of Iraq, while redoubling our efforts to strengthen Iraq’s Security Forces and support its government and people. That is what we have done. We have removed nearly 100,000 U.S. troops from Iraq. We have closed or transferred hundreds of bases to the Iraqis. And we have moved millions of pieces of equipment out of Iraq.
This completes a transition to Iraqi responsibility for their own security. U.S. troops pulled out of Iraq’s cities last summer, and Iraqi forces have moved into the lead with considerable skill and commitment to their fellow citizens. Even as Iraq continues to suffer terrorist attacks, security incidents have been near the lowest on record since the war began. And Iraqi forces have taken the fight to al Qaeda, removing much of its leadership in Iraqi-led operations.
This year also saw Iraq hold credible elections that drew a strong turnout. A caretaker administration is in place as Iraqis form a government based on the results of that election. Tonight, I encourage Iraq’s leaders to move forward with a sense of urgency to form an inclusive government that is just, representative, and accountable to the Iraqi people. And when that government is in place, there should be no doubt: the Iraqi people will have a strong partner in the United States. Our combat mission is ending, but our commitment to Iraq’s future is not.
Going forward, a transitional force of U.S. troops will remain in Iraq with a different mission: advising and assisting Iraq’s Security Forces; supporting Iraqi troops in targeted counter-terrorism missions; and protecting our civilians. Consistent with our agreement with the Iraqi government, all U.S. troops will leave by the end of next year. As our military draws down, our dedicated civilians — diplomats, aid workers, and advisors — are moving into the lead to support Iraq as it strengthens its government, resolves political disputes, resettles those displaced by war, and builds ties with the region and the world. And that is a message that Vice President Biden is delivering to the Iraqi people through his visit there today.
This new approach reflects our long-term partnership with Iraq — one based upon mutual interests, and mutual respect. Of course, violence will not end with our combat mission. Extremists will continue to set off bombs, attack Iraqi civilians and try to spark sectarian strife. But ultimately, these terrorists will fail to achieve their goals. Iraqis are a proud people. They have rejected sectarian war, and they have no interest in endless destruction. They understand that, in the end, only Iraqis can resolve their differences and police their streets. Only Iraqis can build a democracy within their borders. What America can do, and will do, is provide support for the Iraqi people as both a friend and a partner. Ending this war is not only in Iraq’s interest — it is in our own. The United States has paid a huge price to put the future of Iraq in the hands of its people. We have sent our young men and women to make enormous sacrifices in Iraq, and spent vast resources abroad at a time of tight budgets at home. We have persevered because of a belief we share with the Iraqi people — a belief that out of the ashes of war, a new beginning could be born in this cradle of civilization. Through this remarkable chapter in the history of the United States and Iraq, we have met our responsibility. Now, it is time to turn the page.
As we do, I am mindful that the Iraq War has been a contentious issue at home. Here, too, it is time to turn the page. This afternoon, I spoke to former President George W. Bush. It’s well known that he and I disagreed about the war from its outset. Yet no one could doubt President Bush’s support for our troops, or his love of country and commitment to our security. As I have said, there were patriots who supported this war, and patriots who opposed it. And all of us are united in appreciation for our servicemen and women, and our hope for Iraq’s future.
The greatness of our democracy is grounded in our ability to move beyond our differences, and to learn from our experience as we confront the many challenges ahead. And no challenge is more essential to our security than our fight against al Qaeda.
Americans across the political spectrum supported the use of force against those who attacked us on 9/11. Now, as we approach our 10th year of combat in Afghanistan, there are those who are understandably asking tough questions about our mission there. But we must never lose sight of what’s at stake. As we speak, al Qaeda continues to plot against us, and its leadership remains anchored in the border region of Afghanistan and Pakistan. We will disrupt, dismantle, and defeat al Qaeda, while preventing Afghanistan from again serving as a base for terrorists. And because of our drawdown in Iraq, we are now able to apply the resources necessary to go on offense. In fact, over the last 19 months, nearly a dozen al Qaeda leaders — and hundreds of Al Qaeda’s extremist allies — have been killed or captured around the world. Within Afghanistan, I have ordered the deployment of additional troops who — under the command of General David Petraeus — are fighting to break the Taliban’s momentum. As with the surge in Iraq, these forces will be in place for a limited time to provide space for the Afghans to build their capacity and secure their own future. But, as was the case in Iraq, we cannot do for Afghans what they must ultimately do for themselves. That’s why we are training Afghan Security Forces and supporting a political resolution to Afghanistan’s problems. And, next July, we will begin a transition to Afghan responsibility. The pace of our troop reductions will be determined by conditions on the ground, and our support for Afghanistan will endure. But make no mistake: this transition will begin — because open-ended war serves neither our interests nor the Afghan people’s.
Indeed, one of the lessons of our effort in Iraq is that American influence around the world is not a function of military force alone. We must use all elements of our power — including our diplomacy, our economic strength, and the power of America’s example — to secure our interests and stand by our allies. And we must project a vision of the future that is based not just on our fears, but also on our hopes — a vision that recognizes the real dangers that exist around the world, but also the limitless possibility of our time.
Today, old adversaries are at peace, and emerging democracies are potential partners. New markets for our goods stretch from Asia to the Americas. A new push for peace in the Middle East will begin here tomorrow. Billions of young people want to move beyond the shackles of poverty and conflict. As the leader of the free world, America will do more than just defeat on the battlefield those who offer hatred and destruction — we will also lead among those who are willing to work together to expand freedom and opportunity for all people.
That effort must begin within our own borders. Throughout our history, America has been willing to bear the burden of promoting liberty and human dignity overseas, understanding its link to our own liberty and security. But we have also understood that our nation’s strength and influence abroad must be firmly anchored in our prosperity at home. And the bedrock of that prosperity must be a growing middle class.
Unfortunately, over the last decade, we have not done what is necessary to shore up the foundation of our own prosperity. We have spent over a trillion dollars at war, often financed by borrowing from overseas. This, in turn, has short-changed investments in our own people, and contributed to record deficits. For too long, we have put off tough decisions on everything from our manufacturing base to our energy policy to education reform. As a result, too many middle class families find themselves working harder for less, while our nation’s long-term competitiveness is put at risk.
And so at this moment, as we wind down the war in Iraq, we must tackle those challenges at home with as much energy, and grit, and sense of common purpose as our men and women in uniform who have served abroad. They have met every test that they faced. Now, it is our turn. Now, it is our responsibility to honor them by coming together, all of us, and working to secure the dream that so many generations have fought for — the dream that a better life awaits anyone who is willing to work for it and reach for it.
Our most urgent task is to restore our economy, and put the millions of Americans who have lost their jobs back to work. To strengthen our middle class, we must give all our children the education they deserve, and all our workers the skills that they need to compete in a global economy. We must jumpstart industries that create jobs, and end our dependence on foreign oil. We must unleash the innovation that allows new products to roll off our assembly lines, and nurture the ideas that spring from our entrepreneurs. This will be difficult. But in the days to come, it must be our central mission as a people, and my central responsibility as President. Part of that responsibility is making sure that we honor our commitments to those who have served our country with such valor. As long as I am President, we will maintain the finest fighting force that the world has ever known, and do whatever it takes to serve our veterans as well as they have served us. This is a sacred trust. That is why we have already made one of the largest increases in funding for veterans in decades. We are treating the signature wounds of today’s wars post-traumatic stress and traumatic brain injury, while providing the health care and benefits that all of our veterans have earned. And we are funding a post-9/11 GI Bill that helps our veterans and their families pursue the dream of a college education. Just as the GI Bill helped those who fought World War II- including my grandfather- become the backbone of our middle class, so today’s servicemen and women must have the chance to apply their gifts to expand the American economy. Because part of ending a war responsibly is standing by those who have fought it.
Two weeks ago, America’s final combat brigade in Iraq — the Army’s Fourth Stryker Brigade — journeyed home in the pre-dawn darkness. Thousands of soldiers and hundreds of vehicles made the trip from Baghdad, the last of them passing into Kuwait in the early morning hours. Over seven years before, American troops and coalition partners had fought their way across similar highways, but this time no shots were fired. It was just a convoy of brave Americans, making their way home.
Of course, the soldiers left much behind. Some were teenagers when the war began. Many have served multiple tours of duty, far from their families who bore a heroic burden of their own, enduring the absence of a husband’s embrace or a mother’s kiss. Most painfully, since the war began fifty-five members of the Fourth Stryker Brigade made the ultimate sacrifice — part of over 4,400 Americans who have given their lives in Iraq. As one staff sergeant said, “I know that to my brothers in arms who fought and died, this day would probably mean a lot.”
Those Americans gave their lives for the values that have lived in the hearts of our people for over two centuries. Along with nearly 1.5 million Americans who have served in Iraq, they fought in a faraway place for people they never knew. They stared into the darkest of human creations — war — and helped the Iraqi people seek the light of peace.
In an age without surrender ceremonies, we must earn victory through the success of our partners and the strength of our own nation. Every American who serves joins an unbroken line of heroes that stretches from Lexington to Gettysburg; from Iwo Jima to Inchon; from Khe Sanh to Kandahar — Americans who have fought to see that the lives of our children are better than our own. Our troops are the steel in our ship of state. And though our nation may be travelling through rough waters, they give us confidence that our course is true, and that beyond the pre-dawn darkness, better days lie ahead.
Thank you. May God bless you. And may God bless the United States of America, and all who serve her.
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
Release gained for teacher at S. Korea who crossed into North Korea -- Carter Center intervention (Emory Univ., Atlanta, GA)
Posted at www.cartercenter.org/ posted as of Friday August 27, 2010 for online reading
The family of Aijalon Gomes feels blessed today to be able to welcome Aijalon home and into the arms of all those who love him. This has been a long, dark and difficult period—for Aijalon and for our family. We are grateful to all the people who made today possible.
First, we want to express heartfelt gratitude to former President Jimmy Carter and the staff of The Carter Center for taking on Aijalon's release as a private humanitarian mission. Thank you President Carter for traveling to North Korea to bring Aijalon home.
Thank you to the government of North Korea for caring for Aijalon during his darkest days, then agreeing to release him on humanitarian grounds.
And thank you to Swedish Ambassador to North Korea, Mats Foyer, and the First Secretary and Deputy Chief of Mission at the Swedish Embassy in North Korea, Johan Eidman, for graciously serving as the vitally important communication channel to Aijalon during his incarceration.
We deeply appreciate the ongoing efforts of a multitude of men and women in the US Department of State who worked so hard for Aijalon's release. And, we are so very grateful for the thoughts, prayers and good wishes of so many Americans who shared our pain, and can now share our joy.
For Aijalon, although returning home, the journey toward healing really just begins today. Our family hopes that everyone will understand our strong need and desire to secure the privacy necessary for Aijalon to recover fully from this episode in his life. We thank you in advance for respecting that privacy and sharing in our joyful homecoming today.
_________________________________________________________________________________
ATLANTA….Former President Jimmy Carter announced that he is leaving Pyongyang, North Korea, this morning (Aug. 27) accompanied by Mr. Aijalon Mahli Gomes. Mr. Gomes was imprisoned in January of this year and later sentenced to eight years of hard labor with a fine of about $600,000 for the crime of illegal entry into North Korea. At the request of President Carter, and for humanitarian purposes, Mr. Gomes was granted amnesty by the Chairman of the National Defense Commission, Kim Jong-Il.
It is expected that Mr. Gomes will be returned to Boston, Mass., early Friday afternoon, to be reunited with his mother and other members of his family. This was a private mission of The Carter Center, and was neither requested nor sponsored by the U.S. Government. Also participating were Dr. John Hardman, CEO of The Carter Center, John Moores, former Board of Trustees chairman, son Jeffrey Carter, and staff aide Nancy Konigsmark.
http://www.cartercenter.org/news/pr/north-korea-mission-082610.html
The family of Aijalon Gomes feels blessed today to be able to welcome Aijalon home and into the arms of all those who love him. This has been a long, dark and difficult period—for Aijalon and for our family. We are grateful to all the people who made today possible.
First, we want to express heartfelt gratitude to former President Jimmy Carter and the staff of The Carter Center for taking on Aijalon's release as a private humanitarian mission. Thank you President Carter for traveling to North Korea to bring Aijalon home.
Thank you to the government of North Korea for caring for Aijalon during his darkest days, then agreeing to release him on humanitarian grounds.
And thank you to Swedish Ambassador to North Korea, Mats Foyer, and the First Secretary and Deputy Chief of Mission at the Swedish Embassy in North Korea, Johan Eidman, for graciously serving as the vitally important communication channel to Aijalon during his incarceration.
We deeply appreciate the ongoing efforts of a multitude of men and women in the US Department of State who worked so hard for Aijalon's release. And, we are so very grateful for the thoughts, prayers and good wishes of so many Americans who shared our pain, and can now share our joy.
For Aijalon, although returning home, the journey toward healing really just begins today. Our family hopes that everyone will understand our strong need and desire to secure the privacy necessary for Aijalon to recover fully from this episode in his life. We thank you in advance for respecting that privacy and sharing in our joyful homecoming today.
_________________________________________________________________________________
ATLANTA….Former President Jimmy Carter announced that he is leaving Pyongyang, North Korea, this morning (Aug. 27) accompanied by Mr. Aijalon Mahli Gomes. Mr. Gomes was imprisoned in January of this year and later sentenced to eight years of hard labor with a fine of about $600,000 for the crime of illegal entry into North Korea. At the request of President Carter, and for humanitarian purposes, Mr. Gomes was granted amnesty by the Chairman of the National Defense Commission, Kim Jong-Il.
It is expected that Mr. Gomes will be returned to Boston, Mass., early Friday afternoon, to be reunited with his mother and other members of his family. This was a private mission of The Carter Center, and was neither requested nor sponsored by the U.S. Government. Also participating were Dr. John Hardman, CEO of The Carter Center, John Moores, former Board of Trustees chairman, son Jeffrey Carter, and staff aide Nancy Konigsmark.
http://www.cartercenter.org/news/pr/north-korea-mission-082610.html
Tom Shales, Pulitzer-Prize winning media columnist - essayist (Online Q/A session) Aug. 31, Noon Hour
Here's what was posted among the opening Questions - Critical Inquiries -- one from Media Consumer who also writes this blog ("faithfor2008" dot-blogspot dot-com): The EMMYs show began at 8 p.m. and concluded by 11 p.m. on Sunday Aug. 29, 2010
Niles, Michigan USA: It seemed like the August 29 Awards show moved forward with jerks and speed bumps -- at each genre "Reality"/"Comedy"/"Drama" there were clip anthologies that seemed rather unrepresentative for what actually were memorable 2009-10 moments during the award "year" preceding -- I found the show to be overstuffed with NBC self-promotional moments and therefore unbearable to watch without fast forward. Agree?
Tom Shales: I don't know if it was "unbearable" cause after all, i did bear it - but then I'm just in the habit, I guess -- but you're so right, the clip tsunami was a mess. It was hard to tell what belonged where and next to whom and why and the whole idea of dividing it up into genres - and then putting comedy first (isn't that what they did? my memory not perfect on Emmy Shows) -- seemed to me emphatically NOT to work. There should be a certain amount of disorganization because otherwise there aren't likely to be many surprises.... Thank you Niles Michigan, home of famous golden-age announcer WENDELL NILES !!!! Yayyy as Kermit would say. And I just made that up, I don't know where Wendell came from. Forgive me......
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2010/08/27/DI2010082704184.html
Niles, Michigan USA: It seemed like the August 29 Awards show moved forward with jerks and speed bumps -- at each genre "Reality"/"Comedy"/"Drama" there were clip anthologies that seemed rather unrepresentative for what actually were memorable 2009-10 moments during the award "year" preceding -- I found the show to be overstuffed with NBC self-promotional moments and therefore unbearable to watch without fast forward. Agree?
Tom Shales: I don't know if it was "unbearable" cause after all, i did bear it - but then I'm just in the habit, I guess -- but you're so right, the clip tsunami was a mess. It was hard to tell what belonged where and next to whom and why and the whole idea of dividing it up into genres - and then putting comedy first (isn't that what they did? my memory not perfect on Emmy Shows) -- seemed to me emphatically NOT to work. There should be a certain amount of disorganization because otherwise there aren't likely to be many surprises.... Thank you Niles Michigan, home of famous golden-age announcer WENDELL NILES !!!! Yayyy as Kermit would say. And I just made that up, I don't know where Wendell came from. Forgive me......
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2010/08/27/DI2010082704184.html
Word of Wednesday (Sept. 1) dinner with Netanyahu, Abbas, Mubarak, King Abdullah of Jordan at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue
from Obama Foodorama blog (here at blogger sponsored by Google):
White House Press Secretary Robert Gibbs announced today that President Obama will host a private dinner for the Middle East leaders who are coming to Washington to resume the process of peace talks.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas, Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak, and Jordan's King Abdullah are all scheduled to attend the Wednesday dinner with the President, which will mostly take place in the Residence, according to Gibbs.
"The President will have an opportunity to see...each of those leaders individually, as well as at dinner," Gibbs said, noting that the bilats will take place during the day on Wednesday. Formal meetings will be on Thursday, led by Secretary of State Hillary Clinton. These are the first substantive talks Israeli and Palestinian leaders will have had since 2000.
The contours of the negotiations have not yet been previewed by the White House, but Gibbs noted that both the Israelis and Palestinians have shown they are “indeed serious” about reaching a peace accord, having taken many steps to get to the talks in Washington.
Prime Minister Netanyahu was last at the White House on July 6, when he met with the President, Vice President Joe Biden, and Cabinet Secretaries; his wife, Sara Netanyahu, met with First Lady Michelle Obama for tea. In 2009, King Abdullah was the first Head of State President Obama hosted at the White House after becoming Chief Executive.
http://obamafoodorama.blogspot.com/2010/08/president-obama-will-host-dinner-for.html
White House Press Secretary Robert Gibbs announced today that President Obama will host a private dinner for the Middle East leaders who are coming to Washington to resume the process of peace talks.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas, Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak, and Jordan's King Abdullah are all scheduled to attend the Wednesday dinner with the President, which will mostly take place in the Residence, according to Gibbs.
"The President will have an opportunity to see...each of those leaders individually, as well as at dinner," Gibbs said, noting that the bilats will take place during the day on Wednesday. Formal meetings will be on Thursday, led by Secretary of State Hillary Clinton. These are the first substantive talks Israeli and Palestinian leaders will have had since 2000.
The contours of the negotiations have not yet been previewed by the White House, but Gibbs noted that both the Israelis and Palestinians have shown they are “indeed serious” about reaching a peace accord, having taken many steps to get to the talks in Washington.
Prime Minister Netanyahu was last at the White House on July 6, when he met with the President, Vice President Joe Biden, and Cabinet Secretaries; his wife, Sara Netanyahu, met with First Lady Michelle Obama for tea. In 2009, King Abdullah was the first Head of State President Obama hosted at the White House after becoming Chief Executive.
http://obamafoodorama.blogspot.com/2010/08/president-obama-will-host-dinner-for.html
Ben Sira - chapter 43
43: 1 - 33 (translated by Edgar Goodspeed)
The glory of the height is the firmament in its purity, the sight of the heavens with the spectacle of their splendor. The sun, when he/it appears, making proclamation as he/it goes forth, is a wonderful instrument, the work of the Most High; at noonday he/it dries up the country, and who can withstand his burning heat? A man who blows a furnace works in the midst of heat, but the sun three times as much, burning up the mountains. He breathes out fiery vapors, and shoots forth his beams, blinding the eyes. Great is the Lord who made him, at whose command the sun hurries on his/its course.
The moon, too, the Lord places in its position at its season, to mark times and be an everlasting sign; the moon gives the sign for the festival, a light that wanes after reaching the full. The month is named after her/it; she increases marvelously as she changes, an instrument of the hosts on high, shining in the firmament of the heavens. The beauty of heaven is the glory of the stars, a system giving light in the highest places of the Lord. At the command of the Holy One they take their places as He decrees, and they will not fail in their watches. Behold the rainbow, and bless Him who made it surpassigly beautiful in its brightness. It curves over the heaven in a glorious circle, the hands of the Most high have stretched it out, by His command He brings the hurrying snow, and makes swift the lightning of His judgment; because of it, the storehouses are opened, and the clouds fly out like birds. In His majesty the Lord makes the clouds thick, and the hailstones are broken in pieces. When the Lord appears, the mountains shake. At his wish the south wind blows. His voice in the thunder rebukes the earth; so do the hurricane from the north and the whirlwind. He sprinkles the snow like birds fluttering down, it comes down like locusts settling; the eye is amazed at the beauty of its whiteness, and the mind is astonished at its raining. The Lord pours hoarfrost over the earth like salt, and when it freezes, it becomes points of thorns. The cold north wind blows, and the ice freezes on the water; it lodges on every pool of water, and the water puts it on like a breastplate. It consumes the mountains and burns up the wilderness, and shrivels the green herbage like fire, a mist coming quickly heals everything; the dew falling refreshes things after the heat.
By His counsel the Lord has stilled the deep, and planted islands in it. Those who sail the sea tell of its danger, and we wonder at what we hear with our ears. There are strange and wonderful works in it, all kinds of living things, the whale creation. Because of Him His messenger prospers on His way, and through His command all things consist.
We may say more, but we will not reach the end, and the conclusion of what we have to say is: He is the whole (Latin phrase is Ipse Est In Omnibus). Where can we find strength to glorify Him? For He is greater than all His works. The Lord is terrible and exceedingly great, and His power is wonderful. Glorify the Lord and exalt Him as much as you can, for even then He will surpass it. When you exalt Him, put forth all your strength; do not grow weary, for you will not reach the end. Who has ever seen Him, so that one can describe Him? And who can tell His greatness as it really is? Many things greater than these still remain hidden, for we have seen but few of His works. For the Lord has made all things, and He has given wisdom to the godly!
The glory of the height is the firmament in its purity, the sight of the heavens with the spectacle of their splendor. The sun, when he/it appears, making proclamation as he/it goes forth, is a wonderful instrument, the work of the Most High; at noonday he/it dries up the country, and who can withstand his burning heat? A man who blows a furnace works in the midst of heat, but the sun three times as much, burning up the mountains. He breathes out fiery vapors, and shoots forth his beams, blinding the eyes. Great is the Lord who made him, at whose command the sun hurries on his/its course.
The moon, too, the Lord places in its position at its season, to mark times and be an everlasting sign; the moon gives the sign for the festival, a light that wanes after reaching the full. The month is named after her/it; she increases marvelously as she changes, an instrument of the hosts on high, shining in the firmament of the heavens. The beauty of heaven is the glory of the stars, a system giving light in the highest places of the Lord. At the command of the Holy One they take their places as He decrees, and they will not fail in their watches. Behold the rainbow, and bless Him who made it surpassigly beautiful in its brightness. It curves over the heaven in a glorious circle, the hands of the Most high have stretched it out, by His command He brings the hurrying snow, and makes swift the lightning of His judgment; because of it, the storehouses are opened, and the clouds fly out like birds. In His majesty the Lord makes the clouds thick, and the hailstones are broken in pieces. When the Lord appears, the mountains shake. At his wish the south wind blows. His voice in the thunder rebukes the earth; so do the hurricane from the north and the whirlwind. He sprinkles the snow like birds fluttering down, it comes down like locusts settling; the eye is amazed at the beauty of its whiteness, and the mind is astonished at its raining. The Lord pours hoarfrost over the earth like salt, and when it freezes, it becomes points of thorns. The cold north wind blows, and the ice freezes on the water; it lodges on every pool of water, and the water puts it on like a breastplate. It consumes the mountains and burns up the wilderness, and shrivels the green herbage like fire, a mist coming quickly heals everything; the dew falling refreshes things after the heat.
By His counsel the Lord has stilled the deep, and planted islands in it. Those who sail the sea tell of its danger, and we wonder at what we hear with our ears. There are strange and wonderful works in it, all kinds of living things, the whale creation. Because of Him His messenger prospers on His way, and through His command all things consist.
We may say more, but we will not reach the end, and the conclusion of what we have to say is: He is the whole (Latin phrase is Ipse Est In Omnibus). Where can we find strength to glorify Him? For He is greater than all His works. The Lord is terrible and exceedingly great, and His power is wonderful. Glorify the Lord and exalt Him as much as you can, for even then He will surpass it. When you exalt Him, put forth all your strength; do not grow weary, for you will not reach the end. Who has ever seen Him, so that one can describe Him? And who can tell His greatness as it really is? Many things greater than these still remain hidden, for we have seen but few of His works. For the Lord has made all things, and He has given wisdom to the godly!
Monday, August 30, 2010
Ben Sira - chapter 42
42: 1 - 25 (translated by Edgar Goodspeed)
Do not be ashamed of these things, and do not show partiality, so as to sin: of the Law of the Most High and His agreement, and of judgment, to punish the ungodly; of having a reckoning with a partner and fellow-travelers, and of a present from what is inherited by your companions; of the accuracy of scales and weights, and of the acquisition of much or little; of profit from dealing with merchants, and of the careful training of children; and of staining the side of a bad servant with blood. It is well to put a seal on a wicked wife, and where there are many hands, lock things up. Whatever you hand over, let it be by number and weight; and in giving and receiving, let everything be in writing. Do not be ashamed to instruct the senseless and foolish, or an aged man who is charged with immorality. Then you will be really instructed, and approved in the eyes of every man alive.
A daughter is a secret cause of sleeplessness to her father, and his concern for her robs him of his rest; in her youth, for fear she will pass her prime, and when she is married, for fear she will be hated; when she is a girl, for fear she will be profaned, and be with child in her father's house; when she has a husband, for fear she will transgress; and when she is married, for fear she will be childless. Keep a close watch over a headstrong daughter, for fear she will fill your enemies with malignant joy, and make you the talk of the town and notorious among the people, and disgrace you before the multitude. Do not look at anybody for her beauty, and do not sit among women, for as a moth comes out of clothing, a woman's wickedness comes from a woman. A man's wickedness is better than a beneficent woman, or a woman that disgraces you shamefully. I will call to mind the doings of the Lord and recount the things that I have seen. By the commands of the Lord His works are done; the light-giving sun looks down on everything, and his work is full of the glory of the Lord. He has not permitted the saints of the Lord to recount all his wonders, which the Lord, the Almighty, has firmly established, so that the universe might stand fast through his glory. He searches out the great deep and the human mind, and He understands their designs; for the Most High possesses all knowledge, and looks upon the portent of eternity, and declares the things that are past and the things that are to come, and uncovers the tracks of hidden things. No thought escapes Him, not one word is hidden from Him. He has ordained the majesty of His wisdom, for He is from everlasting to everlasting. It cannot be increased or diminished, and He has no need of any counselor. How much to be desired are all His works, and how sparkling they are to see. All these things live and last forever, with all their functions, and they are all obedient. They are all in pairs, one facing another, not one of them is missing. One confirms the good of the other, and who can have too much of beholding His glory?
Do not be ashamed of these things, and do not show partiality, so as to sin: of the Law of the Most High and His agreement, and of judgment, to punish the ungodly; of having a reckoning with a partner and fellow-travelers, and of a present from what is inherited by your companions; of the accuracy of scales and weights, and of the acquisition of much or little; of profit from dealing with merchants, and of the careful training of children; and of staining the side of a bad servant with blood. It is well to put a seal on a wicked wife, and where there are many hands, lock things up. Whatever you hand over, let it be by number and weight; and in giving and receiving, let everything be in writing. Do not be ashamed to instruct the senseless and foolish, or an aged man who is charged with immorality. Then you will be really instructed, and approved in the eyes of every man alive.
A daughter is a secret cause of sleeplessness to her father, and his concern for her robs him of his rest; in her youth, for fear she will pass her prime, and when she is married, for fear she will be hated; when she is a girl, for fear she will be profaned, and be with child in her father's house; when she has a husband, for fear she will transgress; and when she is married, for fear she will be childless. Keep a close watch over a headstrong daughter, for fear she will fill your enemies with malignant joy, and make you the talk of the town and notorious among the people, and disgrace you before the multitude. Do not look at anybody for her beauty, and do not sit among women, for as a moth comes out of clothing, a woman's wickedness comes from a woman. A man's wickedness is better than a beneficent woman, or a woman that disgraces you shamefully. I will call to mind the doings of the Lord and recount the things that I have seen. By the commands of the Lord His works are done; the light-giving sun looks down on everything, and his work is full of the glory of the Lord. He has not permitted the saints of the Lord to recount all his wonders, which the Lord, the Almighty, has firmly established, so that the universe might stand fast through his glory. He searches out the great deep and the human mind, and He understands their designs; for the Most High possesses all knowledge, and looks upon the portent of eternity, and declares the things that are past and the things that are to come, and uncovers the tracks of hidden things. No thought escapes Him, not one word is hidden from Him. He has ordained the majesty of His wisdom, for He is from everlasting to everlasting. It cannot be increased or diminished, and He has no need of any counselor. How much to be desired are all His works, and how sparkling they are to see. All these things live and last forever, with all their functions, and they are all obedient. They are all in pairs, one facing another, not one of them is missing. One confirms the good of the other, and who can have too much of beholding His glory?
Sunday, August 29, 2010
Ben Sira - chapter 41
41: 1 - 24 (translated by Edgar Goodspeed)
O death, how bitter is the remembrance of you to a man at peace among his possessions, to a man who is free from distractions and prosperous in everything, and is still vigorous enough to enjoy his food! O death, your sentence is good for a needy man of failing strength, in extreme old age, and distracted about everything; who is contrary and has lost his patience. Do not fear the sentence of death; remember those who went before you and those who come after. This is the sentence of the Lord upon all flesh and blood, and how can you refuse what is the will of the Most High? Whether it was ten or a hundred or a thousand years, there is no reporach about life in Hades.
The children of sinners are detestable children, and live in the circles of the ungodly. The possessions of the children of sinners will be lost, and perpetual reproach will follow their posterity. His children will blame an ungodly father because they are reproached on his account. Alas for you, ungodly men, who have forsaken the law of the Most High God! When you are born, you are born to a curse, and when you die, a curse will be your lot. Everything that springs from the earth will go back to the earth; just as surely the ungodly go from a curse to destruction. Men grieve about their bodies, but the name of sinners is not good and will be blotted out. Take heed about your name, for you retain it longer than a thousand great stores of gold. The days of a good life are numbered, but a good name lasts forever. Children maintain instruction and be at peace; concealed wisdom and invisible treasure -- what is the use of either? A man who hides his folly is better than a man who hides his wisom. Therefore regard what I say; for not every kind of shame is it well to maintain. And not everything is approved in good faith by all. Be ashamed of a father and mother, for immorality, and of a prince and a ruler, for a lie; of a judge and a magistrate, for an offense, and of an assembly and the people, for disregard for the Law; of a partner and a frined, for unjust dealing, and of the place where you are living, for theft; respect the truth ofGod and his agreement, be ashamed to lean on your elbow at table; to be contemptuous about giving back what you have received; and to keep silent before those who greet you; to look at a woman who is a courtesan, and to turn your face away from a relative; to take someone's portion or present, and to stare at a married woman; to meddle with another man's maid, (and do not stand over her bed); to utter words of abuse before friends (and after you make a gift do not add abuse); to repeat what you ahve heard, and to tell things that are secret. Then you will be really modest, and win the approval of everyone.
O death, how bitter is the remembrance of you to a man at peace among his possessions, to a man who is free from distractions and prosperous in everything, and is still vigorous enough to enjoy his food! O death, your sentence is good for a needy man of failing strength, in extreme old age, and distracted about everything; who is contrary and has lost his patience. Do not fear the sentence of death; remember those who went before you and those who come after. This is the sentence of the Lord upon all flesh and blood, and how can you refuse what is the will of the Most High? Whether it was ten or a hundred or a thousand years, there is no reporach about life in Hades.
The children of sinners are detestable children, and live in the circles of the ungodly. The possessions of the children of sinners will be lost, and perpetual reproach will follow their posterity. His children will blame an ungodly father because they are reproached on his account. Alas for you, ungodly men, who have forsaken the law of the Most High God! When you are born, you are born to a curse, and when you die, a curse will be your lot. Everything that springs from the earth will go back to the earth; just as surely the ungodly go from a curse to destruction. Men grieve about their bodies, but the name of sinners is not good and will be blotted out. Take heed about your name, for you retain it longer than a thousand great stores of gold. The days of a good life are numbered, but a good name lasts forever. Children maintain instruction and be at peace; concealed wisdom and invisible treasure -- what is the use of either? A man who hides his folly is better than a man who hides his wisom. Therefore regard what I say; for not every kind of shame is it well to maintain. And not everything is approved in good faith by all. Be ashamed of a father and mother, for immorality, and of a prince and a ruler, for a lie; of a judge and a magistrate, for an offense, and of an assembly and the people, for disregard for the Law; of a partner and a frined, for unjust dealing, and of the place where you are living, for theft; respect the truth ofGod and his agreement, be ashamed to lean on your elbow at table; to be contemptuous about giving back what you have received; and to keep silent before those who greet you; to look at a woman who is a courtesan, and to turn your face away from a relative; to take someone's portion or present, and to stare at a married woman; to meddle with another man's maid, (and do not stand over her bed); to utter words of abuse before friends (and after you make a gift do not add abuse); to repeat what you ahve heard, and to tell things that are secret. Then you will be really modest, and win the approval of everyone.
I Samuel 20 -- lay readers and preacher Rev. Harry Clark (St. John's UCC)
among the verses/speeches and narrative were these
Verse 5: "Tomorrow is the new moon, and I should not fail to sit with the king at the meaal; but let me go, so that I may hide in the field until the third evening. . ."
Verses 10 - 17: "Who will tell me if your father answers you harshly?" // "Come let us go out into the field. . .May the LORD be with you, as He has been with my father. If I am still alive, show me the faithful love of the LORD; but if I die, never cut off your faithful love from my house, even if the LORD were to cut off every one of the enemies of David from the face of the earth." Thus Jonathan made a covenant with the house of David -- "May the Lord seek out the enemies of David." Jonathan made David swear again by his love for him; for he loved him as he loved his own life. . .
Verse 5: "Tomorrow is the new moon, and I should not fail to sit with the king at the meaal; but let me go, so that I may hide in the field until the third evening. . ."
Verses 10 - 17: "Who will tell me if your father answers you harshly?" // "Come let us go out into the field. . .May the LORD be with you, as He has been with my father. If I am still alive, show me the faithful love of the LORD; but if I die, never cut off your faithful love from my house, even if the LORD were to cut off every one of the enemies of David from the face of the earth." Thus Jonathan made a covenant with the house of David -- "May the Lord seek out the enemies of David." Jonathan made David swear again by his love for him; for he loved him as he loved his own life. . .
Saturday, August 28, 2010
90.000 U.S. troops are home from Iraq War since Obama took office -- Weekly Radio Address (August 28, 2010)
Web posting at www.washingtonpost.com/ by Anne Kornblut (White House correspondent)
Obama will deliver a major address to the nation on Tuesday night (August 31, 2010) highlighting his 2007-8 campaign promise to bring the war to a close. "As a candidate for this office, I pledged I would end this war. As president, that is what I am doing," Obama said in his weekly address, setting the stage for next week's speech. He said the United States is taking "an important step forward" as the last combat brigades leave the country, saying it will "mark the end of America's combat mission in Iraq."
For Obama, the shift to Iraq is an effort to celebrate good news. With little more than two months until the midterm elections, there has been a steady drumbeat of negative economic developments -- including a slumping housing market, stalled business spending and, on Friday, an announcement that the economy had grown more slowly this spring than anticipated.
Obama, vacationing in Martha's Vineyard, released a taped address (called the Weekly Radio Message but also Online since 2009) that focused on the needs of veterans returning from the war. He will also travel to Fort Bliss, Texas -- home of the 1st Armored Division -- on Tuesday to meet with troops, including some who will have an ongoing role in Iraq despite the official end to combat. Tens of thuosands of U.S. troops are still in Iraq, a fact that critics on both sides of the ideological spectrum have said undercuts the argument that the war is ending.
At the same time, Iraq remains a political mess. No government has been formed in the five months since elections were held and there are still outbreaks of deadly violence, though fewer than there were before the surge began three years ago.
Still, Obama embraced the positive steps -- and his own role in making good on a campaign pledge.
"We have brought home more than 90,000 troops since I took office. We have closed or turned over to Iraq hundreds of bases. In many parts of the country, Iraqis have already taken the lead for security," Obama said. "In the months ahead, our troops will continue to support and train Iraqi forces, partner with Iraqis in counterterrorism missions, and protect our civilian and military efforts.
"But the bottom line is this: the war is ending. Like any sovereign, independent nation, Iraq is free to chart its own course. And by the end of next year, all of our troops will be home," Obama said. "As we mark the end of America's combat mission in Iraq, a grateful nation must pay tribute to all who have served there. Because part of responsibly ending this war is meeting our responsibility to those who have fought it."
Obama will deliver a major address to the nation on Tuesday night (August 31, 2010) highlighting his 2007-8 campaign promise to bring the war to a close. "As a candidate for this office, I pledged I would end this war. As president, that is what I am doing," Obama said in his weekly address, setting the stage for next week's speech. He said the United States is taking "an important step forward" as the last combat brigades leave the country, saying it will "mark the end of America's combat mission in Iraq."
For Obama, the shift to Iraq is an effort to celebrate good news. With little more than two months until the midterm elections, there has been a steady drumbeat of negative economic developments -- including a slumping housing market, stalled business spending and, on Friday, an announcement that the economy had grown more slowly this spring than anticipated.
Obama, vacationing in Martha's Vineyard, released a taped address (called the Weekly Radio Message but also Online since 2009) that focused on the needs of veterans returning from the war. He will also travel to Fort Bliss, Texas -- home of the 1st Armored Division -- on Tuesday to meet with troops, including some who will have an ongoing role in Iraq despite the official end to combat. Tens of thuosands of U.S. troops are still in Iraq, a fact that critics on both sides of the ideological spectrum have said undercuts the argument that the war is ending.
At the same time, Iraq remains a political mess. No government has been formed in the five months since elections were held and there are still outbreaks of deadly violence, though fewer than there were before the surge began three years ago.
Still, Obama embraced the positive steps -- and his own role in making good on a campaign pledge.
"We have brought home more than 90,000 troops since I took office. We have closed or turned over to Iraq hundreds of bases. In many parts of the country, Iraqis have already taken the lead for security," Obama said. "In the months ahead, our troops will continue to support and train Iraqi forces, partner with Iraqis in counterterrorism missions, and protect our civilian and military efforts.
"But the bottom line is this: the war is ending. Like any sovereign, independent nation, Iraq is free to chart its own course. And by the end of next year, all of our troops will be home," Obama said. "As we mark the end of America's combat mission in Iraq, a grateful nation must pay tribute to all who have served there. Because part of responsibly ending this war is meeting our responsibility to those who have fought it."
Ben Sira - chapter 40
40: 1 - 30 (Translated by Edgar Goodspeed)
Much occupation is appointed for everyone and a heavy yoke rests on the children of Adam from the day they come out of their mother's womb until the day when they return to the mother of us all, their perplexities and anxiety of mind, their apprehension, and the day of their end! From the one who sits on his splendid throne to the one who is abased in dust and ashes. From the one who wears purple and a crown to the one who is clad in coarse linen/burlap, there is wrath and envy and trouble and perplexity and fear of death and anger and stirfe; when one rests upon his bed, his sleep at night confuses his knowledge. He gets little or no rest, and afterward in his sleep, he is like a watchman on duty, bewildered by the vision of his mind. Like one who has escaped from the front of battle in the moment of his extremity he wakes up, and wonders that his fear came to nothing. It is so with all flesh, human and beast; and with sinners seven times more; death and blood and strife and sword, misfortunes, famine and afflication and plague -- all these were created for the wicked, and because of them the flood came. All that comes from the earth returns to the earth and what comes from the waters turns back to the sea. All bribery and injustice will be blotted out, but good faith will stand forever. The property of the unrighteous will dry up like a river, and explode like a clap of thunder in a rain. As surely as an open-handed person is glad, transgressors will utterly fail.
Transgressors will utterly fail. The children of the ungodly will not put forth many branches; they are unclean roots on a precipitous rock. Sedge by any water or riverbank will be plucked up before any grass. Kindness is like a garden of blessing, and charity endures forever. The life of a self-supporting man or of a workman is made sweet, but one who finds a treasure is better off than both of them. Children and the building of a city perpetuate one's name, but an irreproachable wife is counted better than both of them. Wine and music delight the heart, but the love of wisdom is better than both of them. The flute and the lute make sweet melody, but a pleasant tongue is better than both of them. The eye desires grace and beauty, but more than both of them the springing grain. A friend and a comrade meet opportunely, but a wife with her husband is better than both of them. Brothers and help are for a time of trouble, but charity is a better deliverer than both of them. Gold and silver make a person stand firm, but good counsel is more approved than both of them. Money and vigor elate the mind, but the fear of the Lord is better than both of them. There is no flaw in the fear of the Lord, and with it there is no need to seek for help. The fear of the Lord is like a garden of blessing, and covers a man better than any glory. My child, do not lead a beggar's life; it is better to die than to beg. When one looks to another's table, his existence cannot be considered life. He pollutes his soul with another man's food, but one who is intelligent and well-instructed will beware of it. In the mouth of the shameless begging is sweet, but it kindles a fire in his heart.
Much occupation is appointed for everyone and a heavy yoke rests on the children of Adam from the day they come out of their mother's womb until the day when they return to the mother of us all, their perplexities and anxiety of mind, their apprehension, and the day of their end! From the one who sits on his splendid throne to the one who is abased in dust and ashes. From the one who wears purple and a crown to the one who is clad in coarse linen/burlap, there is wrath and envy and trouble and perplexity and fear of death and anger and stirfe; when one rests upon his bed, his sleep at night confuses his knowledge. He gets little or no rest, and afterward in his sleep, he is like a watchman on duty, bewildered by the vision of his mind. Like one who has escaped from the front of battle in the moment of his extremity he wakes up, and wonders that his fear came to nothing. It is so with all flesh, human and beast; and with sinners seven times more; death and blood and strife and sword, misfortunes, famine and afflication and plague -- all these were created for the wicked, and because of them the flood came. All that comes from the earth returns to the earth and what comes from the waters turns back to the sea. All bribery and injustice will be blotted out, but good faith will stand forever. The property of the unrighteous will dry up like a river, and explode like a clap of thunder in a rain. As surely as an open-handed person is glad, transgressors will utterly fail.
Transgressors will utterly fail. The children of the ungodly will not put forth many branches; they are unclean roots on a precipitous rock. Sedge by any water or riverbank will be plucked up before any grass. Kindness is like a garden of blessing, and charity endures forever. The life of a self-supporting man or of a workman is made sweet, but one who finds a treasure is better off than both of them. Children and the building of a city perpetuate one's name, but an irreproachable wife is counted better than both of them. Wine and music delight the heart, but the love of wisdom is better than both of them. The flute and the lute make sweet melody, but a pleasant tongue is better than both of them. The eye desires grace and beauty, but more than both of them the springing grain. A friend and a comrade meet opportunely, but a wife with her husband is better than both of them. Brothers and help are for a time of trouble, but charity is a better deliverer than both of them. Gold and silver make a person stand firm, but good counsel is more approved than both of them. Money and vigor elate the mind, but the fear of the Lord is better than both of them. There is no flaw in the fear of the Lord, and with it there is no need to seek for help. The fear of the Lord is like a garden of blessing, and covers a man better than any glory. My child, do not lead a beggar's life; it is better to die than to beg. When one looks to another's table, his existence cannot be considered life. He pollutes his soul with another man's food, but one who is intelligent and well-instructed will beware of it. In the mouth of the shameless begging is sweet, but it kindles a fire in his heart.
Friday, August 27, 2010
Ben Sira - chapter 39
39: 1 - 35 (translated by Edgar Goodspeed)
It is not so with the one who applies himself, and studies the Law of the Most High. He searches out the wisdom of all the ancients, and busies himself with prophecies; he observes the discourse of famous men, and penetrates the intricacies of figures. He searches out the hidden meaning of proverbs, and acquaints himself with the obscurities of figures. He will serve among the great, and appear before rulers. He will travel through the lands of strange peoples, and test what is good and what is evil among men / in the human lot. He will devote himself to going early to the Lord his Maker, and will make his entreaty before the Most High. He will open his mouth in prayer, and make intreaty for his sins.
If the great Lord pleases, he will be filled with the spirit of understanding, he will pour out his wise saying, and give thanks to the Lord in prayer; the Lord will direct his counsel and knowledge, and study his secrets. He will reveal instruction in his teaching, and will glory in the Law of the Lord's agreement. Many will praise his understanding, and it will never be blotted out. His memory will not disappear, and his name will live for endless generations. Nations will repeat his wisdom, and the congregation will utter his praise. If he lives long, he will leave a greater name than a tousand, and if he goes to rest, his fame is enough for him.
I have reflected further, and I will utter it, and I am full as the full moon. Listen to me, you holy sons, and bud like a rose that grows by a watercourse; exhale fragrance like a frankincense tree, and blossom like a lily. Give forth an odor and sing a song, bless the Lord for all His works. Magnify His name and confess Him with praise, with songs on your lips and with lyres, and this is what you are to say in your thanksgiving: "The works of the Lord are all extremely good, and every command of His will be obeyed in its proper season." No one can say "What does this mean? Why is that?" For in His good time they will all be searched out, at His command the waters stood in a heap, and the reservoirs of water at the word He uttered. At His order all that He pleases is done, and there is no one who can interfere with His saving power. The doings/works of all are before Him, and it is not possible to be hidden from His eyes. From everlasting to everlasting He beholds them, and nothing is marvelous to/for Him. No one can say, "What does this mean? Why is that?" For everything has been created for its use.
His blessing covers the land like a river, and saturates the dry land like a flood. As He turns fresh water into salt water, so the heathen will experience His wrath. To His people His ways are straight, just as they are stumbling blocks to the disobedient. From the beginning good things have been created for the good, just as evils [and good things - Hebrew & Syriac versions] have been created for sinners. The elements necessary for human life are water and fire and iron and salt, and wheat flour and milk and honey, the blood of grape, and olive oil and clothing. All theses things prove good to the godly, just as they turn into evils for the sinful.
There are winds which have been created for vengeance, and when He is angry, they make their scourges strong; when the consummation comes, they will pour out their strength, and calm the anger of their Creator. Fire and hail and famine and death -- these have all been created for vengeance. The fangs of wild animals, and scorpions and vipers, and the sword that drives the ungodly to destruction -- they will rejoice when He commands, and be made ready on the earth for their functions. And they will not disobey His word, at their proper times.
Therefore from the beginning I have become assured, and have treached this conclusion and left it in writing: The works of the Lord are all good, and will supply every need when it arises, and no one can say, "This is worse than that," for they will all prove good in their season. So now sing praise with all your heart and voice, and bless the name of the Lord.
It is not so with the one who applies himself, and studies the Law of the Most High. He searches out the wisdom of all the ancients, and busies himself with prophecies; he observes the discourse of famous men, and penetrates the intricacies of figures. He searches out the hidden meaning of proverbs, and acquaints himself with the obscurities of figures. He will serve among the great, and appear before rulers. He will travel through the lands of strange peoples, and test what is good and what is evil among men / in the human lot. He will devote himself to going early to the Lord his Maker, and will make his entreaty before the Most High. He will open his mouth in prayer, and make intreaty for his sins.
If the great Lord pleases, he will be filled with the spirit of understanding, he will pour out his wise saying, and give thanks to the Lord in prayer; the Lord will direct his counsel and knowledge, and study his secrets. He will reveal instruction in his teaching, and will glory in the Law of the Lord's agreement. Many will praise his understanding, and it will never be blotted out. His memory will not disappear, and his name will live for endless generations. Nations will repeat his wisdom, and the congregation will utter his praise. If he lives long, he will leave a greater name than a tousand, and if he goes to rest, his fame is enough for him.
I have reflected further, and I will utter it, and I am full as the full moon. Listen to me, you holy sons, and bud like a rose that grows by a watercourse; exhale fragrance like a frankincense tree, and blossom like a lily. Give forth an odor and sing a song, bless the Lord for all His works. Magnify His name and confess Him with praise, with songs on your lips and with lyres, and this is what you are to say in your thanksgiving: "The works of the Lord are all extremely good, and every command of His will be obeyed in its proper season." No one can say "What does this mean? Why is that?" For in His good time they will all be searched out, at His command the waters stood in a heap, and the reservoirs of water at the word He uttered. At His order all that He pleases is done, and there is no one who can interfere with His saving power. The doings/works of all are before Him, and it is not possible to be hidden from His eyes. From everlasting to everlasting He beholds them, and nothing is marvelous to/for Him. No one can say, "What does this mean? Why is that?" For everything has been created for its use.
His blessing covers the land like a river, and saturates the dry land like a flood. As He turns fresh water into salt water, so the heathen will experience His wrath. To His people His ways are straight, just as they are stumbling blocks to the disobedient. From the beginning good things have been created for the good, just as evils [and good things - Hebrew & Syriac versions] have been created for sinners. The elements necessary for human life are water and fire and iron and salt, and wheat flour and milk and honey, the blood of grape, and olive oil and clothing. All theses things prove good to the godly, just as they turn into evils for the sinful.
There are winds which have been created for vengeance, and when He is angry, they make their scourges strong; when the consummation comes, they will pour out their strength, and calm the anger of their Creator. Fire and hail and famine and death -- these have all been created for vengeance. The fangs of wild animals, and scorpions and vipers, and the sword that drives the ungodly to destruction -- they will rejoice when He commands, and be made ready on the earth for their functions. And they will not disobey His word, at their proper times.
Therefore from the beginning I have become assured, and have treached this conclusion and left it in writing: The works of the Lord are all good, and will supply every need when it arises, and no one can say, "This is worse than that," for they will all prove good in their season. So now sing praise with all your heart and voice, and bless the name of the Lord.
Thursday, August 26, 2010
Affix - Christian Rock Group concert - August 28 - 5 p.m. at Niles, Michigan
from their FACEBOOK publicity
Saturday · 5:00pm - 6:15pm
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Location 13 South 4th Street, Niles, MI 49120
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Created By Affix
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More Info: Affix will be performing their first concert event in Michigan on Saturday, August 28th at 5pm. This is a FREE event open to the public! There will be food, games and great music. Please come out and join First Presbyterian Church in reaching out to their community.
Saturday · 5:00pm - 6:15pm
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Location 13 South 4th Street, Niles, MI 49120
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Created By Affix
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
More Info: Affix will be performing their first concert event in Michigan on Saturday, August 28th at 5pm. This is a FREE event open to the public! There will be food, games and great music. Please come out and join First Presbyterian Church in reaching out to their community.
Ben Sira - chapter 38
38: 1 - 34 (translated by Edgar Goodspeed)
Show the physician due honor in view of your need of him, for the Lord has created him; healing comes form the Most High, and he will receive presents from the king. The skill of the physician exalts him, and he is admired among the great. The Lord has created medicines out of the earth, and a sensible man will not refuse them. Was not water made sweet by wood, so that its strength might be shown? The Lord has given humanity knowledge so the He might be glorified for His wonderful works. Wtih them He cures and takes away pain, the druggist makes a mixture of them. The Lord's works will never end, and from Him peace spreads over the face of the earth.
My child, do not be negligent when you are sick, but pray to the Lord, and he will cure you. Renounce wrongdoing and make your hands do right, and cleanse your heart from every sin; offer a fragrant offering and a memorial sacrifice of fine flour, and make your offering rich, as though you were no longer to live, and leave room for the physician, for the Lord has created him, and He must not desert you, for you need him.
There is a time when your welfare depends upon them, for they too will pray the Lord to guide them to bringing relief and effecting a cure and restoration to health. As for the one who sins in the sight of his Maker, may he fall into the hands of the physician!
My child, for the dead let your tears fall, and like one who is suffering terribly begin your lament. Wrap his body up fittingly, and do not neglect his burial. Weep bitterly and wail passionately and show your grief as he may deserve, for one day or perhaps two, to avert criticism; then be comforted for your sorrow. For death comes of sorrow, and sorrow of heart prostrates one's strength. In misfortune grief will continue, and the life of the poor saddens the heart. But do not resign your heart to grief; dismiss it, but remember your end, do not forget it, for he will not come back; you cannot help him, and you will harm yourself; "Remember my judgment, for your will be like it; mine today, and yours tomorrow!" When the dead is at rest, let his memory rest, and be comforted for him when his spirit departs.
A scribe attains wisdom through the opportunities of leisure, and the man who has little business to do can become wise. How can the man who holds the plow become wise, who glories in handling the ox-goad? Who drives oxen, and guides them at their work, and whose discourse is with the sons of bulls? He sets his mind on turning his furrows, and his anxiety is about fodder for heifers. It is so with every craftsman and builder, who keeps at work at night as well as by day. Some cut carved seals, and elaborate variety of design; another puts his mind on painting a likeness, and is anxious to complete his work. It is so with the smith sitting by his anvil, and expert in working in iron; the smoke of the fire reduces his flesh, and he exerts himself in the heat of the furnace. He bends his ear to the sound of the hammer, and his eyes are on the pattern of the implement. He puts his mind on completing his work, and he is anxious to finish preparing it. It is so with the potter, as he sits at his work, and turns the wheel with his foot; he is constantly careful about his work, and all his manufacture is by measure; he will shape the clay with his arm, and bend its strength with his feet; he puts his mind on finishing the glazing and he is anxious to make his furnace clean.
All these rely on their hands; and each one is skilful in his own work; withouth them, no city can be inhabited, and people will not live in one or go about in it. But all of these are not sought for to advise the people, and in the public assembly they do not excel. They do not sit on the judge's seat, and they do not think about the decision of lawsuits; they do not utter instruction or judgment, and they are not found using proverbs. Yet they support the fabric of the world, and their prayer is in the practice of their trade.
Show the physician due honor in view of your need of him, for the Lord has created him; healing comes form the Most High, and he will receive presents from the king. The skill of the physician exalts him, and he is admired among the great. The Lord has created medicines out of the earth, and a sensible man will not refuse them. Was not water made sweet by wood, so that its strength might be shown? The Lord has given humanity knowledge so the He might be glorified for His wonderful works. Wtih them He cures and takes away pain, the druggist makes a mixture of them. The Lord's works will never end, and from Him peace spreads over the face of the earth.
My child, do not be negligent when you are sick, but pray to the Lord, and he will cure you. Renounce wrongdoing and make your hands do right, and cleanse your heart from every sin; offer a fragrant offering and a memorial sacrifice of fine flour, and make your offering rich, as though you were no longer to live, and leave room for the physician, for the Lord has created him, and He must not desert you, for you need him.
There is a time when your welfare depends upon them, for they too will pray the Lord to guide them to bringing relief and effecting a cure and restoration to health. As for the one who sins in the sight of his Maker, may he fall into the hands of the physician!
My child, for the dead let your tears fall, and like one who is suffering terribly begin your lament. Wrap his body up fittingly, and do not neglect his burial. Weep bitterly and wail passionately and show your grief as he may deserve, for one day or perhaps two, to avert criticism; then be comforted for your sorrow. For death comes of sorrow, and sorrow of heart prostrates one's strength. In misfortune grief will continue, and the life of the poor saddens the heart. But do not resign your heart to grief; dismiss it, but remember your end, do not forget it, for he will not come back; you cannot help him, and you will harm yourself; "Remember my judgment, for your will be like it; mine today, and yours tomorrow!" When the dead is at rest, let his memory rest, and be comforted for him when his spirit departs.
A scribe attains wisdom through the opportunities of leisure, and the man who has little business to do can become wise. How can the man who holds the plow become wise, who glories in handling the ox-goad? Who drives oxen, and guides them at their work, and whose discourse is with the sons of bulls? He sets his mind on turning his furrows, and his anxiety is about fodder for heifers. It is so with every craftsman and builder, who keeps at work at night as well as by day. Some cut carved seals, and elaborate variety of design; another puts his mind on painting a likeness, and is anxious to complete his work. It is so with the smith sitting by his anvil, and expert in working in iron; the smoke of the fire reduces his flesh, and he exerts himself in the heat of the furnace. He bends his ear to the sound of the hammer, and his eyes are on the pattern of the implement. He puts his mind on completing his work, and he is anxious to finish preparing it. It is so with the potter, as he sits at his work, and turns the wheel with his foot; he is constantly careful about his work, and all his manufacture is by measure; he will shape the clay with his arm, and bend its strength with his feet; he puts his mind on finishing the glazing and he is anxious to make his furnace clean.
All these rely on their hands; and each one is skilful in his own work; withouth them, no city can be inhabited, and people will not live in one or go about in it. But all of these are not sought for to advise the people, and in the public assembly they do not excel. They do not sit on the judge's seat, and they do not think about the decision of lawsuits; they do not utter instruction or judgment, and they are not found using proverbs. Yet they support the fabric of the world, and their prayer is in the practice of their trade.
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
Ben Sira - chapter 37
37: 1- 31 (translated by Edgar Goodspeed)
Every friend will say, "I am your friend"; but sometimes a friend is a friend only in name. Is it not a sorrow like that for death itself when a companion and friend turns into an enemy? O wicked thought! Why were you shaped to cover the earth with deceit? There are companions who rejoice in their friends' happiness, but, when trouble comes, are against them. There are companions who labor with a friend for their stomach's sake, who will take up the shield in the face of war. Do not forget your friend in your heart, and do not be unmindful of him in your wealth.
Every adviser praises good counsel, but some give advice in their own interests. Be on your guard against advisers and first find out what is for their advantage -- for they will take thought for themselves -- or they will cast the lot against you, and say to you, "Your way is good," and will stand over against you to see what will happen to you. Do not consult with the man who looks suspiciously at you; conceal your purpose from those who are jealous of you; with a woman about her rival, or with a coward about a war; with a merchant about business, or with a buyer about selling; with an envious man about gratitude, or with a merciless man about kindliness; with an idler about any piece of work, or with a man hired by the year about finishing his work; with a lazy servant about a large undertaking; do not look to these for any advice. But stay all the time with the godly person who you know keeps the commandments; whose heart is at one with your heart, and who will sorrow with you if you fail. And hold fast the counsel of your own mind, for you have nothing more to be depended on than it. For a man's soul is soemtimes wont to bring him news better than seven watchmen sitting high on a watchtower. And, above all this, intreat the Most High to direct your way in truth.
Every undertaking begins with reason, and consideration precedes every work. If we trace the changes of the mind, four parts appear, good and evil, life and death. But it is the tongue that continually rules them. A man may be shrewd and the instructor of many, and yet be unprofitable to himself. A man skillful in his use of words may be hated; he will fail to get any food. For agreeableness has not been given him by the Lord, because he has been deprived of all wisdom. A man may be wise for himself, and the products of his understanding may be trustworthy on his lips; a wise man will instruct his own people, and the products of his understanding will be trustworthy; a wise man will be satisfied with blessing, and all who see him will call him happy. A man's life is numbered by days but the days of Israel are unnumbered. The wise man will obtain the trust of his people, and his name will live forever. My child, test your soul while you live, and see what hurts it, and do not give it that. For not everything is good for everyone, and not everybody enjoys everything. Do not be insatiable about any luxury, and do not be carried away with food, for sickness comes with excessive eating. and greediness leads to severe illness. Many have died of greediness, but the one who guards against it prolongs his life.
Every friend will say, "I am your friend"; but sometimes a friend is a friend only in name. Is it not a sorrow like that for death itself when a companion and friend turns into an enemy? O wicked thought! Why were you shaped to cover the earth with deceit? There are companions who rejoice in their friends' happiness, but, when trouble comes, are against them. There are companions who labor with a friend for their stomach's sake, who will take up the shield in the face of war. Do not forget your friend in your heart, and do not be unmindful of him in your wealth.
Every adviser praises good counsel, but some give advice in their own interests. Be on your guard against advisers and first find out what is for their advantage -- for they will take thought for themselves -- or they will cast the lot against you, and say to you, "Your way is good," and will stand over against you to see what will happen to you. Do not consult with the man who looks suspiciously at you; conceal your purpose from those who are jealous of you; with a woman about her rival, or with a coward about a war; with a merchant about business, or with a buyer about selling; with an envious man about gratitude, or with a merciless man about kindliness; with an idler about any piece of work, or with a man hired by the year about finishing his work; with a lazy servant about a large undertaking; do not look to these for any advice. But stay all the time with the godly person who you know keeps the commandments; whose heart is at one with your heart, and who will sorrow with you if you fail. And hold fast the counsel of your own mind, for you have nothing more to be depended on than it. For a man's soul is soemtimes wont to bring him news better than seven watchmen sitting high on a watchtower. And, above all this, intreat the Most High to direct your way in truth.
Every undertaking begins with reason, and consideration precedes every work. If we trace the changes of the mind, four parts appear, good and evil, life and death. But it is the tongue that continually rules them. A man may be shrewd and the instructor of many, and yet be unprofitable to himself. A man skillful in his use of words may be hated; he will fail to get any food. For agreeableness has not been given him by the Lord, because he has been deprived of all wisdom. A man may be wise for himself, and the products of his understanding may be trustworthy on his lips; a wise man will instruct his own people, and the products of his understanding will be trustworthy; a wise man will be satisfied with blessing, and all who see him will call him happy. A man's life is numbered by days but the days of Israel are unnumbered. The wise man will obtain the trust of his people, and his name will live forever. My child, test your soul while you live, and see what hurts it, and do not give it that. For not everything is good for everyone, and not everybody enjoys everything. Do not be insatiable about any luxury, and do not be carried away with food, for sickness comes with excessive eating. and greediness leads to severe illness. Many have died of greediness, but the one who guards against it prolongs his life.
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
New Glasses (Sears Optical)
New frames (Levi's manufacturer) / / Prescription as written by Matthew Bartlett, O.D.
Sphere OD = -4.25 OS = -2.75 (near-sightedness)
Cylinder = -1.25
Axis 085 OD and 096 OS
I will wear these bifocals full-time.
Picked up August 24, 2010 from Sears at University Park Mall, Mishawaka, Indiana.
Sphere OD = -4.25 OS = -2.75 (near-sightedness)
Cylinder = -1.25
Axis 085 OD and 096 OS
I will wear these bifocals full-time.
Picked up August 24, 2010 from Sears at University Park Mall, Mishawaka, Indiana.
Ben Sira - chapter 36
36: 1-13, 16-31 (verse numbering is different in NRSV: translation credit to Edgar Goodspeed)
[a prayer of petition]
Have mercy upon us, Lord God of all, and look upon us, and cast fear of you upon all the heathen/nations. Raise Your hand against alien peoples/foreign nations and let them see Your might. As You have been sanctified before them, in us, may You be magnified before us, in them; and let them know, as we have known, that there is no God, Lord, but You. Show signs again, and show other wonders, make Your hand and Your right arm glorious. Arouse Your anger and pour out Your wrath, destroy the adversary and wipe out the enemy. Hasten the time and remmber Your oath; and let them relate Your mighty acts. And those who would save themselves be consumed in furious fire, and let those who harm Your people meet destruction. Crush the heads of the enemy's rulers, who say, "There is no one but ourselves!" Gather all the tribes of Jacob, and give them their inheritance, as it was of old. Have mercy, Lord, on the people that has borne Your name, and on Israel, whom You compared to your first-born. Have pity on the city of Your sanctuary, Jerusalem, the place where You rest. Fill Zion with the celbration of Your goodness, and Your people with Your glory. Bear witness to those whom You created in the beginning, and fulfil the prophecies made in Your name. Give those who wait for You their reward, and let people trust in Your prophets. Hear, Lord, the prayer of Your suppliants, with Aaron's blessing on Your people, and all the people on the earth will know that You are the Lord, the eternal God.
(Verses 23-31 follow)
The stomach will eat any food, yet one food is better than another. As the mouth tastes the meat of game, an intelligent mind detects false words. A perverse mind causes pain, but an experienced man will pay him back. A woman can receive any man, yet one girl surpasses another. A woman' beauty gladdens one's countenance, and exceeds every desire man has. If mercy and meekness are on her lips, her husband is not like the sons of men. The man who gets a wife enters upon a possession, a helper like himself, and a pillar of support. Where there is no hedge, a piece of property will be plundered, and where there is no wife, a man will wander about and groan. For who will trust an active robber who bounds from one city to another? So who will trust a man who has no nest, and spends the night wherever evening overtakes him?
[a prayer of petition]
Have mercy upon us, Lord God of all, and look upon us, and cast fear of you upon all the heathen/nations. Raise Your hand against alien peoples/foreign nations and let them see Your might. As You have been sanctified before them, in us, may You be magnified before us, in them; and let them know, as we have known, that there is no God, Lord, but You. Show signs again, and show other wonders, make Your hand and Your right arm glorious. Arouse Your anger and pour out Your wrath, destroy the adversary and wipe out the enemy. Hasten the time and remmber Your oath; and let them relate Your mighty acts. And those who would save themselves be consumed in furious fire, and let those who harm Your people meet destruction. Crush the heads of the enemy's rulers, who say, "There is no one but ourselves!" Gather all the tribes of Jacob, and give them their inheritance, as it was of old. Have mercy, Lord, on the people that has borne Your name, and on Israel, whom You compared to your first-born. Have pity on the city of Your sanctuary, Jerusalem, the place where You rest. Fill Zion with the celbration of Your goodness, and Your people with Your glory. Bear witness to those whom You created in the beginning, and fulfil the prophecies made in Your name. Give those who wait for You their reward, and let people trust in Your prophets. Hear, Lord, the prayer of Your suppliants, with Aaron's blessing on Your people, and all the people on the earth will know that You are the Lord, the eternal God.
(Verses 23-31 follow)
The stomach will eat any food, yet one food is better than another. As the mouth tastes the meat of game, an intelligent mind detects false words. A perverse mind causes pain, but an experienced man will pay him back. A woman can receive any man, yet one girl surpasses another. A woman' beauty gladdens one's countenance, and exceeds every desire man has. If mercy and meekness are on her lips, her husband is not like the sons of men. The man who gets a wife enters upon a possession, a helper like himself, and a pillar of support. Where there is no hedge, a piece of property will be plundered, and where there is no wife, a man will wander about and groan. For who will trust an active robber who bounds from one city to another? So who will trust a man who has no nest, and spends the night wherever evening overtakes him?
Monday, August 23, 2010
Results
Miss Michigan also Miss USA did not place into the Top Ten of contestants nor win Miss Congeniality nor Miss Photogenic in the Donald Trump (Las Vegas) owned competition involving 83 national representatives (some territories represented like Puerto Rico):
from BREAKING NEWS on Internet (after 11 p.m. Monday night):
Miss Mexico Jimena Navarrete was crowned Miss Universe 2010 during a pageant that aired Monday night on NBC.
Miss Jamaica Yendi Phillipps was first runner-up in the pageant, hosted by Natalie Morales and Bret Michaels.
from BREAKING NEWS on Internet (after 11 p.m. Monday night):
Miss Mexico Jimena Navarrete was crowned Miss Universe 2010 during a pageant that aired Monday night on NBC.
Miss Jamaica Yendi Phillipps was first runner-up in the pageant, hosted by Natalie Morales and Bret Michaels.
19,000 gallon gasoline spill (Niles Township) -- Buckeye Partners -- reported by John Paul, WSBT-TV reporter
posted at www.wsbt.com/
There are concerns about the impact to the area's groundwater supply after 19-thousand gallons of gasoline spilled. Crews inspected the connecting pipe near the tank about 10 days ago. Officials say there was no indication there was a problem with the valve.
While 13- thousand gallons have been collected, six thousand gallons is still unaccounted for. Officials believe the fuel evaporated or seeped into the soil. Contractors hired by Buckeye Partners LP collected and tested soil samples along with the Michigan Dept. of Natural Resources and Environment.
Michael Norris, a spokesperson with the company, said early signs show groundwater is not at risk.
"We have no indication that the contaminated gas in the soil is going deep," said Norris. "Everything indicates that it's holding at the four foot level." Norris said the groundwater table is 15 to 20 feet deep.
There are concerns about the impact to the area's groundwater supply after 19-thousand gallons of gasoline spilled. Crews inspected the connecting pipe near the tank about 10 days ago. Officials say there was no indication there was a problem with the valve.
While 13- thousand gallons have been collected, six thousand gallons is still unaccounted for. Officials believe the fuel evaporated or seeped into the soil. Contractors hired by Buckeye Partners LP collected and tested soil samples along with the Michigan Dept. of Natural Resources and Environment.
Michael Norris, a spokesperson with the company, said early signs show groundwater is not at risk.
"We have no indication that the contaminated gas in the soil is going deep," said Norris. "Everything indicates that it's holding at the four foot level." Norris said the groundwater table is 15 to 20 feet deep.
Likely surgery for Mark Richards at Carle Foundation Hospital, Urbana
email news from my father of Camp Point, Illinois -- he has this likely scheduling news from my Aunt (Irene Kreher of rural Macon County, Illinois) --
"Carle is sending Mark home tomorrow, Irene says, for probably a week while they schedule 8 doctors for his surgery to reconstruct his foot and leg that were shattered by the auger. Irene wanted to go see him there but now can visit him while he is home waiting on his surgery. He was to have a helper clean the corn bin but that fellow's sister got the call that Mark had changed the day and failed to get the message to him so Mark was working alone."
day / time of email
Monday August 23, 2010, 9:30 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time Zone
"Carle is sending Mark home tomorrow, Irene says, for probably a week while they schedule 8 doctors for his surgery to reconstruct his foot and leg that were shattered by the auger. Irene wanted to go see him there but now can visit him while he is home waiting on his surgery. He was to have a helper clean the corn bin but that fellow's sister got the call that Mark had changed the day and failed to get the message to him so Mark was working alone."
day / time of email
Monday August 23, 2010, 9:30 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time Zone
Ben Sira - chapter 35
35: 1-26 (Edgar Goodspeed translation has numbering of verses that diverges from NRSV)
The one who keeps the Law will make many offerings; one who gives heed to the commandments will offer a thanksgiving sacrifice, the one who returns a kindness will offer a meal offering, and the one who gives to charity will offer the sacrifice of praise. Avoiding wickedness wins the Lord's approval, and avoiding wrongdoing is atonement. Do not appear before the Lord empty-handed, for all these things must be done because they are commanded. The offering of the righteous enriches the altar, and its fragrance reaches the Most High. The sacrifice of the righteous is acceptable, and the memory of it will not be forgotten. Glorify the Lord with a generous eye, and do not stint the first fruits of your hands. In all your giving show a joyful face, and dedicate your tithes with gladness. Give to the Most High as he has given to you, with a generous eye, and as your hand has found. For the Lord is One who repays, and He will repay you seven times over. Do not try to bribe Him, for He will not accept it, and do not rely on an ill-gotten sacrifice; for the Lord is a judge, and there is no partiality with him. He will show no partiality against the poor, but He will listen to the prayer of the one who is wronged. He will not disregard the supplication of the orphan, or the widow, if she pours out her story. Do not the widow's tears run down her cheeks, while she utters her complaint against the man who has caused them to fall? The one who serves God with good will is welcomed, and his prayer reaches to the clouds. The prayer of the humble pierces the clouds, and until it reaches God, he will not be consoled. He will not leave off until the Most High considers him, and does justice to the upright, and passes judgment. The Lord will not delay or be slow about them, until He crushes the loins of the unmerciful, and takes vengeance on the heathen; until he destroys the multitude of the insolent, and breaks the scepters of the unrighteous; until He repays mortals for their doings, and repays men's deeds accroding to their thoughts; until He judges the case of His people and makes them glad with His mercy. Mercy is as beautiful in a time of trouble as rain clouds in a time of drought.
The one who keeps the Law will make many offerings; one who gives heed to the commandments will offer a thanksgiving sacrifice, the one who returns a kindness will offer a meal offering, and the one who gives to charity will offer the sacrifice of praise. Avoiding wickedness wins the Lord's approval, and avoiding wrongdoing is atonement. Do not appear before the Lord empty-handed, for all these things must be done because they are commanded. The offering of the righteous enriches the altar, and its fragrance reaches the Most High. The sacrifice of the righteous is acceptable, and the memory of it will not be forgotten. Glorify the Lord with a generous eye, and do not stint the first fruits of your hands. In all your giving show a joyful face, and dedicate your tithes with gladness. Give to the Most High as he has given to you, with a generous eye, and as your hand has found. For the Lord is One who repays, and He will repay you seven times over. Do not try to bribe Him, for He will not accept it, and do not rely on an ill-gotten sacrifice; for the Lord is a judge, and there is no partiality with him. He will show no partiality against the poor, but He will listen to the prayer of the one who is wronged. He will not disregard the supplication of the orphan, or the widow, if she pours out her story. Do not the widow's tears run down her cheeks, while she utters her complaint against the man who has caused them to fall? The one who serves God with good will is welcomed, and his prayer reaches to the clouds. The prayer of the humble pierces the clouds, and until it reaches God, he will not be consoled. He will not leave off until the Most High considers him, and does justice to the upright, and passes judgment. The Lord will not delay or be slow about them, until He crushes the loins of the unmerciful, and takes vengeance on the heathen; until he destroys the multitude of the insolent, and breaks the scepters of the unrighteous; until He repays mortals for their doings, and repays men's deeds accroding to their thoughts; until He judges the case of His people and makes them glad with His mercy. Mercy is as beautiful in a time of trouble as rain clouds in a time of drought.
Miss Michigan (also Miss USA) is one of 83 contestants tonight for "Miss Universe" (August 23)
story from M-Live (online news source for MICHIGAN-themed press releases statewide) =
URL is : http://www.mlive.com/entertainment/detroit/index.ssf/2010/08/hometown_hopes_run_high_as_mis.html
Hometown hopes run high as Miss USA Rima Fakih heads into the competition for Miss Universe.
The Dearborn, Michigan resident plans to have family with her in Las Vegas Monday night and numerous friends in the Detroit suburb watching the two-hour telecast on NBC. Fakih is one of 83 contestants worldwide who won their national competitions. The Miss Universe pageant is co-owned by NBC and Donald Trump and hosted by rocker Bret Michaels and NBC news correspondent Natalie Morales. (The 2010 broadcast begins at 9 p.m. Eastern Standard Time on NBC).
Fakih enjoyed a warm reception last month during a weeklong homecoming that included public and private events around the area. The Lebanese immigrant also received a key to Dearborn and threw out the ceremonial first pitch at a Detroit Tigers game against the Minnesota Twins.
URL is : http://www.mlive.com/entertainment/detroit/index.ssf/2010/08/hometown_hopes_run_high_as_mis.html
Hometown hopes run high as Miss USA Rima Fakih heads into the competition for Miss Universe.
The Dearborn, Michigan resident plans to have family with her in Las Vegas Monday night and numerous friends in the Detroit suburb watching the two-hour telecast on NBC. Fakih is one of 83 contestants worldwide who won their national competitions. The Miss Universe pageant is co-owned by NBC and Donald Trump and hosted by rocker Bret Michaels and NBC news correspondent Natalie Morales. (The 2010 broadcast begins at 9 p.m. Eastern Standard Time on NBC).
Fakih enjoyed a warm reception last month during a weeklong homecoming that included public and private events around the area. The Lebanese immigrant also received a key to Dearborn and threw out the ceremonial first pitch at a Detroit Tigers game against the Minnesota Twins.
Sunday, August 22, 2010
Psalm 103:8
Text for Harry Clark's sermon -- "Merciful and Gracious"
The LORD is merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love (NRSV translation)
The LORD is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love (NIV)
This powerful refrain and prayer invocation to God is repeated in various contexts of the Old Testament
Exodus 34:6 /// Numbers 14:18 /// Psalm 145:8 /// Jeremiah 32:18 /// Jonah 4:2 /// Nehemiah 9:17, 31
The LORD is merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love (NRSV translation)
The LORD is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love (NIV)
This powerful refrain and prayer invocation to God is repeated in various contexts of the Old Testament
Exodus 34:6 /// Numbers 14:18 /// Psalm 145:8 /// Jeremiah 32:18 /// Jonah 4:2 /// Nehemiah 9:17, 31
Ben Sira - chapter 34
34: 1-31 (translated by Edgar Goodspeed) - his numbering diverges from NRSV versification -
Vain and delusive are the hopes of the senseless, and dreams give wings to fools. As one who catches at a shadow, and chases the wind, is anyone who is absorbed in dreams. A vision of dreams is this against that, the likeness of one face before another. From an unclean thing what can be clean? And from something false what can be true? Divinations and omens and dreams are folly, and fancies of the mind like those of a woman in travail, unless they are sent from the Most High as a warning, do not pay any attention to them, for dreams have deceived many, and setting their hopes on them has led to their downfall. The Law must be observed without any such falsehoods, and wisdom finds perfection in truthful lips.
A well-taught man knows a great deal, and a man of experience will discourse with understanding. The man who has not been tested knows little, but he who has wandered far gains great ingenuity. I have seen much in my travels, and I understand more than I can describe; I have often been in danger of death, but I have been saved by these qualities/experiences.
The spirit of those who fear the Lord will live, for their hope is in Him who can save them. Those who fear the Lord will have no dread, and will not be afraid, for He is their hope. Happy is the soul that fears the Lord! To whom does that one look? And who is his support? The eyes of the Lord rest on those who love Him, a mighty shield, a strong support, a shelter from the hot wind and the noonday heat, a guard against stumbling and a defense against falling. He lifts up the soul and gives light to the eyes, and bestows healing, life, and blessing.
If one sacrifices gifts that were wrongfully obtained, they are blemished, and the gifts of the sinful are not acceptable. The Most High is not pleased with the offerings of the ungodly, and one cannot atone for sins with a great number of sacrifices. The man who offers a sacrifice from the property of the poor sacrifices a son before his father's eyes. Scanty fare is the living of the poor; the man who deprives them of it is a murderous man. The man who takes away his neighbor's living murders him, and the man who deprives a hired man of his wages is guilty of bloodshed. One builds and another tears down; what do they gain but toil? One prays and another curses; which one's voice will the Lord listen to? If one washes after touching a corpse and then touches it again, what good has his bath done him? That is the way with a man who fasts for his sins, and goes and does the same things over. Who will listen to his prayer? What has he gained by humiliating himself?
Vain and delusive are the hopes of the senseless, and dreams give wings to fools. As one who catches at a shadow, and chases the wind, is anyone who is absorbed in dreams. A vision of dreams is this against that, the likeness of one face before another. From an unclean thing what can be clean? And from something false what can be true? Divinations and omens and dreams are folly, and fancies of the mind like those of a woman in travail, unless they are sent from the Most High as a warning, do not pay any attention to them, for dreams have deceived many, and setting their hopes on them has led to their downfall. The Law must be observed without any such falsehoods, and wisdom finds perfection in truthful lips.
A well-taught man knows a great deal, and a man of experience will discourse with understanding. The man who has not been tested knows little, but he who has wandered far gains great ingenuity. I have seen much in my travels, and I understand more than I can describe; I have often been in danger of death, but I have been saved by these qualities/experiences.
The spirit of those who fear the Lord will live, for their hope is in Him who can save them. Those who fear the Lord will have no dread, and will not be afraid, for He is their hope. Happy is the soul that fears the Lord! To whom does that one look? And who is his support? The eyes of the Lord rest on those who love Him, a mighty shield, a strong support, a shelter from the hot wind and the noonday heat, a guard against stumbling and a defense against falling. He lifts up the soul and gives light to the eyes, and bestows healing, life, and blessing.
If one sacrifices gifts that were wrongfully obtained, they are blemished, and the gifts of the sinful are not acceptable. The Most High is not pleased with the offerings of the ungodly, and one cannot atone for sins with a great number of sacrifices. The man who offers a sacrifice from the property of the poor sacrifices a son before his father's eyes. Scanty fare is the living of the poor; the man who deprives them of it is a murderous man. The man who takes away his neighbor's living murders him, and the man who deprives a hired man of his wages is guilty of bloodshed. One builds and another tears down; what do they gain but toil? One prays and another curses; which one's voice will the Lord listen to? If one washes after touching a corpse and then touches it again, what good has his bath done him? That is the way with a man who fasts for his sins, and goes and does the same things over. Who will listen to his prayer? What has he gained by humiliating himself?
Saturday, August 21, 2010
Niles, MI gasoline spill at rural Third Street Tank Location (Buckeye Partners oil/gas company)
from coverage of the industrial gasoline spill (WSBT.com web article):
A gasoline leak on Saturday morning on a section of Third Street referred to as "Tank Town" may have caused as many as 6,000 gallons of gas to spew onto the ground, authorities say.The spill at a tank at the Niles North Terminal owned by Buckeye Partners, L.P., 2303 S. Third St., happened at 8:37 a.m. and was capped at 10:08 a.m.
Niles Township Fire Chief Gary Brovold said the spill may have occurred when a flange connecting pipes near the tank came apart, causing a spill six feet in diameter. The unleaded premium gas was being pumped to a tanker truck at a loading rack farther away.
"I can’t say (yet) exactly what failed," Brovold said.
More than 10 fire departments, including HazMat crews from Berrien County and the Niles area, responded to the emergency, by spraying foam onto the spilled gasoline to minimize the fumes. The gasoline was being contained into a "dike area" around the tank, Brovold said.
A company hired by Buckeye Partners was called to the scene Saturday afternoon to vacuum up the product and the foam. An environmental assessment also will be done, including soil remediation, but Brovold did not believe the spill would have an effect on nearby residents.
Still, the leak caused some tense moments for authorities, who say the chance of the gas igniting is always possible.
A gasoline leak on Saturday morning on a section of Third Street referred to as "Tank Town" may have caused as many as 6,000 gallons of gas to spew onto the ground, authorities say.The spill at a tank at the Niles North Terminal owned by Buckeye Partners, L.P., 2303 S. Third St., happened at 8:37 a.m. and was capped at 10:08 a.m.
Niles Township Fire Chief Gary Brovold said the spill may have occurred when a flange connecting pipes near the tank came apart, causing a spill six feet in diameter. The unleaded premium gas was being pumped to a tanker truck at a loading rack farther away.
"I can’t say (yet) exactly what failed," Brovold said.
More than 10 fire departments, including HazMat crews from Berrien County and the Niles area, responded to the emergency, by spraying foam onto the spilled gasoline to minimize the fumes. The gasoline was being contained into a "dike area" around the tank, Brovold said.
A company hired by Buckeye Partners was called to the scene Saturday afternoon to vacuum up the product and the foam. An environmental assessment also will be done, including soil remediation, but Brovold did not believe the spill would have an effect on nearby residents.
Still, the leak caused some tense moments for authorities, who say the chance of the gas igniting is always possible.
Ben Sira - chapter 33
33: 1 - 31 (translated by Edgar Goodspeed)
No evil will befall the one who fears the Lord but in trial He will deliver him again and agin. The wise will not hate the Law, but those who are hypocritical about it are like a ship in a storm. A person of understanding will trust in the Law, and trust the Law as he would a decision by the sacred lot. Prepare what you have to say, and then you will be listened to; knit your instruction together and give your answer. The heart of a fool is a wagon wheel; and his thought is like a turning axle. A stallion is like a mocking friend; he neighs under everyone who rides him.
Why is one day better than another, when the light of every day in the year is from the sun? By the Lord's knowledge they have been separated, and He has made the various seasons and festivals. Some of them He has exalted and made sacred, and some He has made ordinary days. All men are from the ground, and Adam was created out of earth. In the wealth of his knowledged the Lord has distinguished them, and made their ways different. Some of them He has blessed and exalted, and some He has made holy and brought near Himself. Some of them He has cursed and humbled, and thrown down from their position. Like clay in the hand of the potter -- for all His ways are guided by His good plearusre -- so all are in the hand of their Creator, to be repaid as He decides. As good is the opposite of evil, and life the opposite of death, so the sinner is the opposite of the godly. So look upon all the works of the Most High, in pairs, one the opposite of the other.
I was the last to wake up, like one who gleans after the grape-gatherers; by the blessing of the Lord I got ahead, and like a grape-gatherer I filled my wine press. Observe that I have not labored for myself only, but for all who seek instruction. Hear me, you leaders of the people, and your rulers of the assembly, listen to me!
To a son or a wife, to a brother or a friend, do not give power over yourself as long as you live; do not give your money to someone else, so that you may not change your mind and have to ask for it. As long as you live and have breath in your body, do not sell yourself to anybody. For it is better that your children should ask from you, than that you should look to the clean hands of your children. In all that you do retain control, so that you will not put any stain upon your reputation. When the days of your life reach their end, at the time of your death distribute your property.
Fodder and a stick and loads for a donkey, bread and discipline and work for a servant. Put your slave to work, and you will have rest; leave his handles idle, and he will seek his liberty. The yoke and the strap will bend his neck, and racks and tortures are for a servant who is a wrongdoer. Put him to work, so that he will not be idle, for idleness teaches much evil. Set him such work as is suited to him, and if he does not obey, load him with fetters. But do not be overbearing to anybody, and do not do anything without consideration (NRSV: justice). If you have a/but one servant, regard him as yourself, because you have bought him with blood. If you have a servant, treat him like a brother, for you need him as you do your own life. If you ill-treat him, and he leaves and runs away, where will you look for him?
No evil will befall the one who fears the Lord but in trial He will deliver him again and agin. The wise will not hate the Law, but those who are hypocritical about it are like a ship in a storm. A person of understanding will trust in the Law, and trust the Law as he would a decision by the sacred lot. Prepare what you have to say, and then you will be listened to; knit your instruction together and give your answer. The heart of a fool is a wagon wheel; and his thought is like a turning axle. A stallion is like a mocking friend; he neighs under everyone who rides him.
Why is one day better than another, when the light of every day in the year is from the sun? By the Lord's knowledge they have been separated, and He has made the various seasons and festivals. Some of them He has exalted and made sacred, and some He has made ordinary days. All men are from the ground, and Adam was created out of earth. In the wealth of his knowledged the Lord has distinguished them, and made their ways different. Some of them He has blessed and exalted, and some He has made holy and brought near Himself. Some of them He has cursed and humbled, and thrown down from their position. Like clay in the hand of the potter -- for all His ways are guided by His good plearusre -- so all are in the hand of their Creator, to be repaid as He decides. As good is the opposite of evil, and life the opposite of death, so the sinner is the opposite of the godly. So look upon all the works of the Most High, in pairs, one the opposite of the other.
I was the last to wake up, like one who gleans after the grape-gatherers; by the blessing of the Lord I got ahead, and like a grape-gatherer I filled my wine press. Observe that I have not labored for myself only, but for all who seek instruction. Hear me, you leaders of the people, and your rulers of the assembly, listen to me!
To a son or a wife, to a brother or a friend, do not give power over yourself as long as you live; do not give your money to someone else, so that you may not change your mind and have to ask for it. As long as you live and have breath in your body, do not sell yourself to anybody. For it is better that your children should ask from you, than that you should look to the clean hands of your children. In all that you do retain control, so that you will not put any stain upon your reputation. When the days of your life reach their end, at the time of your death distribute your property.
Fodder and a stick and loads for a donkey, bread and discipline and work for a servant. Put your slave to work, and you will have rest; leave his handles idle, and he will seek his liberty. The yoke and the strap will bend his neck, and racks and tortures are for a servant who is a wrongdoer. Put him to work, so that he will not be idle, for idleness teaches much evil. Set him such work as is suited to him, and if he does not obey, load him with fetters. But do not be overbearing to anybody, and do not do anything without consideration (NRSV: justice). If you have a/but one servant, regard him as yourself, because you have bought him with blood. If you have a servant, treat him like a brother, for you need him as you do your own life. If you ill-treat him, and he leaves and runs away, where will you look for him?
Friday, August 20, 2010
Ben Sira - chapter 32
32: 1- 24 (translated by Edgar Goodspeed)
If they make you master of the feast, do not be uplifted; behave like one of them among them. Look after them, and then take your seat; when you have performed your duties, take your place, so that you may rejoice on their account, and be crowned with a wreath for your efficiency. Speak, elder, for that is your part, with sound understanding, and do not interfere with the music. When there is to be entertainment, do not talk volubly (NRSV: do not pour out talk) and do not philosophize when it is inopportune. A carbuncle signet / a ruby seal in a gold setting is a musical concert at a banquet. An emerald signet richly set in gold is the melody of music with the taste of wine. Speak, young man, if you are obliged to, and only if you are asked repeatedly. Speak concisely; say much in few words; act like one who knows more than he says. When among the great do not act like an equal; and when another is speaking, do not babble. The lightning hastens before the thunder, and approval opens the way for a modest man. Leave in good season and do not bring up the rear; hurry home and do not linger. Amuse yourself there, and do what you please, but do not sin through proud speech. for all these things bless your Maker, Who makes you drink His blessings till you are satisfied. The one who fears the Lord will accept His discipline, and those who rise early to seek Him will gain His approval. The one who pursues the Law will be filled by it, but the hypocrite will be tripped up by it. Those who fear the Lord will discern His judgment, and will kindle upright acts like the light. A sinful man will shun reproof, and will find a legal decision to his liking. A man of discretion will not neglect thougt; an alien or a proud man will not cower from fear; do nothing without consideration; and when you do a thing, do not change your mind. Do not walk in a path full of obstacles, and do not stumble over stony ground. Do not trust an untried way, and guard against your children. In every act have faith in yourself, for the is the keeping of the commandments. The one who has faith in the Law heeds the commandments, and the one who trusts in the Lord will not fail.
If they make you master of the feast, do not be uplifted; behave like one of them among them. Look after them, and then take your seat; when you have performed your duties, take your place, so that you may rejoice on their account, and be crowned with a wreath for your efficiency. Speak, elder, for that is your part, with sound understanding, and do not interfere with the music. When there is to be entertainment, do not talk volubly (NRSV: do not pour out talk) and do not philosophize when it is inopportune. A carbuncle signet / a ruby seal in a gold setting is a musical concert at a banquet. An emerald signet richly set in gold is the melody of music with the taste of wine. Speak, young man, if you are obliged to, and only if you are asked repeatedly. Speak concisely; say much in few words; act like one who knows more than he says. When among the great do not act like an equal; and when another is speaking, do not babble. The lightning hastens before the thunder, and approval opens the way for a modest man. Leave in good season and do not bring up the rear; hurry home and do not linger. Amuse yourself there, and do what you please, but do not sin through proud speech. for all these things bless your Maker, Who makes you drink His blessings till you are satisfied. The one who fears the Lord will accept His discipline, and those who rise early to seek Him will gain His approval. The one who pursues the Law will be filled by it, but the hypocrite will be tripped up by it. Those who fear the Lord will discern His judgment, and will kindle upright acts like the light. A sinful man will shun reproof, and will find a legal decision to his liking. A man of discretion will not neglect thougt; an alien or a proud man will not cower from fear; do nothing without consideration; and when you do a thing, do not change your mind. Do not walk in a path full of obstacles, and do not stumble over stony ground. Do not trust an untried way, and guard against your children. In every act have faith in yourself, for the is the keeping of the commandments. The one who has faith in the Law heeds the commandments, and the one who trusts in the Lord will not fail.
Thursday, August 19, 2010
Fourth Stryker Brigade -- last Troops fighting Operation Iraqi Freedom (Bush-Cheney March 2003 war - August 2010)
from a Chat discussion on the departure of final assigned Combat Unit from Iraq by way of Kuwait (August 19, 2010) -- 7 years and 5 months since the "Shock and Awe" bombing of Baghdad campaign / invasion of Iraq
http://www.washingtonpost.com/ (chat leader is from Foreign Service Reporter of the Post- embedded with Stryker brigade, 2nd Infantry division)
What's the feeling among the troops in Iraq? Do they feel like the "mission" has been "accomplished" again?
Ernesto Londono: I think soldiers these days are pretty careful about declaring "mission accomplished," given the tortured history of those two words as they pertain to the Iraq war. Many leave feeling proud that they carried out the training mission they were tasked with -- and they feel that they leave behind an increasingly competent and strong Iraqi security force. However, many worry that the security gains could erode as the U.S. disengages, mainly because they don't think the country's political establishment has grown or matured in a way commensurate to the evolution of the security forces.
I would say the prevailing feeling is one of relief. They now see the end in sight. Those leaving now know they probably won't have to come back in uniform -- at least any time soon.
What are the odds that some of these troops will be deployed to AfPak? What do the troops think of that war? Do they see it as connected to Iraq? How long will this unit be at home before they may be deployed to a combat area again?
Ernesto Londono: These guys don't know where or when they'll deploy next. They will be home for at least a year, since army rule say that units must get at least as much home time as the duration of their last deployment.
I don't think many soldiers see a strong link between the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. Many have served in both. I think among folks in combat units, Afghanistan is a more attractive theater -- one where they can do more fighting and less nation building.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2010/08/19/DI2010081902891.html
http://www.washingtonpost.com/ (chat leader is from Foreign Service Reporter of the Post- embedded with Stryker brigade, 2nd Infantry division)
What's the feeling among the troops in Iraq? Do they feel like the "mission" has been "accomplished" again?
Ernesto Londono: I think soldiers these days are pretty careful about declaring "mission accomplished," given the tortured history of those two words as they pertain to the Iraq war. Many leave feeling proud that they carried out the training mission they were tasked with -- and they feel that they leave behind an increasingly competent and strong Iraqi security force. However, many worry that the security gains could erode as the U.S. disengages, mainly because they don't think the country's political establishment has grown or matured in a way commensurate to the evolution of the security forces.
I would say the prevailing feeling is one of relief. They now see the end in sight. Those leaving now know they probably won't have to come back in uniform -- at least any time soon.
What are the odds that some of these troops will be deployed to AfPak? What do the troops think of that war? Do they see it as connected to Iraq? How long will this unit be at home before they may be deployed to a combat area again?
Ernesto Londono: These guys don't know where or when they'll deploy next. They will be home for at least a year, since army rule say that units must get at least as much home time as the duration of their last deployment.
I don't think many soldiers see a strong link between the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. Many have served in both. I think among folks in combat units, Afghanistan is a more attractive theater -- one where they can do more fighting and less nation building.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2010/08/19/DI2010081902891.html
Mark Richards -- patient at 7304 Carle Hospital, Urbana, IL, 61801
My cousin was injured severely (auger tore apart tendons & muscles in lower leg) in a farm-related accident with a grain auger in his farm at Beecher City, IL while transferring grain stores. Please pray for him as he undergoes surgeries as needed and his wife, children, mother, extended family and friends visit and watch over his care and therapy in this great hospital: (more from an email sent to me by William Shaw -- Mark's uncle and my dad) -- Florence Richards did visit to Carle in Urbana yesterday to see Mark. He is busy with 3 doctors giving labs and he spends time in the hyperbaric chamber and does still have a 25% chance of losing his leg below the knee. She recommends sending get-well cards and here is his address:
Mark Richards Room 7304
Carle Foundation Hospital
__________________________________________________________________________________
We pray daily for his recovery and improvement from the severe trauma of this farm accident.
Mark Richards Room 7304
Carle Foundation Hospital
__________________________________________________________________________________
We pray daily for his recovery and improvement from the severe trauma of this farm accident.
Flags lowered across Michigan in honor of slain 24-year-old Army Ranger killed in Afghanistan
Here's the details as posted online at local CBS affiliate website (www.wsbt.com/ ):
Michigan Gov. Jennifer Granholm has ordered U.S. flags statewide lowered in honor of Army Pfc. Bradley D. Rappuhn of Grand Ledge, Michigan who was killed in Afghanistan.
The 24-year-old Army Ranger from the Lansing area and another member of his unit died Aug. 8 after insurgents attacked them with an improvised explosive in Zhari Kandahar.
Thursday's flag lowering is the same day as Rapphun's funeral at Grand Ledge High School. Burial will follow in Fort Custer National Cemetery in Augusta.
Rappuhn graduated in 2004 from Grand Ledge High School and played on the bowling team. He enlisted in January 2009 and served as an anti-armor specialist. Rappuhn was part of the 3rd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, based at Fort Benning, Ga.
Michigan Gov. Jennifer Granholm has ordered U.S. flags statewide lowered in honor of Army Pfc. Bradley D. Rappuhn of Grand Ledge, Michigan who was killed in Afghanistan.
The 24-year-old Army Ranger from the Lansing area and another member of his unit died Aug. 8 after insurgents attacked them with an improvised explosive in Zhari Kandahar.
Thursday's flag lowering is the same day as Rapphun's funeral at Grand Ledge High School. Burial will follow in Fort Custer National Cemetery in Augusta.
Rappuhn graduated in 2004 from Grand Ledge High School and played on the bowling team. He enlisted in January 2009 and served as an anti-armor specialist. Rappuhn was part of the 3rd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, based at Fort Benning, Ga.
Ben Sira - chapter 31
31: 1-31 (translated by Edgar Goodspeed)
Anxiety about wealth makes a person waste away, and his worry about it drives away his sleep. Wakefulness and worry banish drowsiness as a serious illness dispels sleep. A rich man toils to amass money, and when he stops to rest, he enjoys luxury; a poor man toils for the want of a livelihood, and if he stops to rest, he finds himself in want. The person who loves gold cannot be called upright, and the one who pursues profits will be led astray by them. Many have been brought to their downfall because of gold and have been brought face to face with ruin. It is a stumbling block to those who are posessed by it, and every fool is taken captive by it. Happy is the rich person who is found blameless, and does not go after gold; who is he? -- that we may congratulate him, for he has worked wonders among his people. Who has been tested by it and found perfect? That one has a right to boast. Who has been able to transgress and has not transgressed, and to do wrong and has not done it? His prosperity will be lasting, and the congregation will talk of his charities. Do you sit at a great table? Do not gulp at it, and do not say, "How much there is on it!" Remember than an envious eye is wrong. What has been created that is worse than the eye? That is why it sheds tears on every face. Do not reach out your hand wherever it looks, and do not crowd your neighbor in the dish; be considerate of him of your own accord, and be thoughtful in everything. Eat like a human being what is served to you, do not champ your food, or you will be detested. Be the first to leave off for good manners' sake, and do not be greedy, or you will give offense. Even though you are seated in a large company, do not be the first to help yourself. How adequate a little is for a well-bred man! He does not have to gasp upon his bed! Healthy sleep results from moderation in eating; one gets up in the morning, in good spirits. The distress of sleeplessness and indigestion and colic attend the greedy man. If you are compelled to eat, get up in the middle of the meal and stop eating. Listen to me, my child, and do not disregard me. And in the end you will find my words true: be industrious in all your work, and no disease will overtake you. The man who is generous with his bread men's lips will bless, and their testimony to his goodness can be relied on. the town will grumble at the one who is grudging with his bread, and their testimony to his stinginess is correct. Do not play the man about wine, for wine has been the ruin of many. The furnace proves the steel's temper by dipping it; so wine tests hearts when proud men quarrel. Wine is like life to men if you drink it in moderation; what life has a man who is without wine? for it was created to give gladness to men. An exhilaration to the heart and gladness to the soul is wine, drunk at the proper time and in sufficient quantity; bitterness to the soul is much drinking of wine amidst irritation and conflict. Drunkenness increases the anger of a fool to his injury, reducing his strength and causing wounds. Do not rebuke your neighbor at a banquet, and do not despise him in his mirth. Do not say a reproachful word to him, and do not press him to repay you.
Anxiety about wealth makes a person waste away, and his worry about it drives away his sleep. Wakefulness and worry banish drowsiness as a serious illness dispels sleep. A rich man toils to amass money, and when he stops to rest, he enjoys luxury; a poor man toils for the want of a livelihood, and if he stops to rest, he finds himself in want. The person who loves gold cannot be called upright, and the one who pursues profits will be led astray by them. Many have been brought to their downfall because of gold and have been brought face to face with ruin. It is a stumbling block to those who are posessed by it, and every fool is taken captive by it. Happy is the rich person who is found blameless, and does not go after gold; who is he? -- that we may congratulate him, for he has worked wonders among his people. Who has been tested by it and found perfect? That one has a right to boast. Who has been able to transgress and has not transgressed, and to do wrong and has not done it? His prosperity will be lasting, and the congregation will talk of his charities. Do you sit at a great table? Do not gulp at it, and do not say, "How much there is on it!" Remember than an envious eye is wrong. What has been created that is worse than the eye? That is why it sheds tears on every face. Do not reach out your hand wherever it looks, and do not crowd your neighbor in the dish; be considerate of him of your own accord, and be thoughtful in everything. Eat like a human being what is served to you, do not champ your food, or you will be detested. Be the first to leave off for good manners' sake, and do not be greedy, or you will give offense. Even though you are seated in a large company, do not be the first to help yourself. How adequate a little is for a well-bred man! He does not have to gasp upon his bed! Healthy sleep results from moderation in eating; one gets up in the morning, in good spirits. The distress of sleeplessness and indigestion and colic attend the greedy man. If you are compelled to eat, get up in the middle of the meal and stop eating. Listen to me, my child, and do not disregard me. And in the end you will find my words true: be industrious in all your work, and no disease will overtake you. The man who is generous with his bread men's lips will bless, and their testimony to his goodness can be relied on. the town will grumble at the one who is grudging with his bread, and their testimony to his stinginess is correct. Do not play the man about wine, for wine has been the ruin of many. The furnace proves the steel's temper by dipping it; so wine tests hearts when proud men quarrel. Wine is like life to men if you drink it in moderation; what life has a man who is without wine? for it was created to give gladness to men. An exhilaration to the heart and gladness to the soul is wine, drunk at the proper time and in sufficient quantity; bitterness to the soul is much drinking of wine amidst irritation and conflict. Drunkenness increases the anger of a fool to his injury, reducing his strength and causing wounds. Do not rebuke your neighbor at a banquet, and do not despise him in his mirth. Do not say a reproachful word to him, and do not press him to repay you.
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
Ben Sira - chapter 30
30: 1-25 (translated by Edgar Goodspeed)
The man who loves his son will continually beat him, so that he may be glad at the end. The man who disciplines his son will profit by him, and boast of him among his acquaintances; the man who teaches his son will make his enemy jealous, and exult over him before his friends. When his father dies, it is as though he were not dead, for he leaves behind him one like himself. In his lifetime he sees him and rejoices, and in death he does not grieve. He has left one to avenge him upon his enemies, and to repay the kindness of his friends. The man who spoils his son will have to bind up his wounds, and his heart will tremble at every cry. An unbroken horse turns out stubborn, and a son left to himself grows up headstrong. If you pamper your child, he will astonish you. Play with him, and he will grieve you; do not laugh with him, so that you may not have to mourn with him and gnash your teeth over him at last. Do not allow him liberty in his youth; bruise his sides while he is a child, so that he will not become stubborn and disobey you. Discipline your son and take pains with him, so that he will not distress you with his bad behavior.
(verse 14): A poor man who is well and has a strong constitution is better off than a rich man who is afflicted in body. Health and good constitution are better than any amount of gold, and a strong body than untold riches. There is no greater wealth than health of body, and there is no greater happiness than gladness of heart. Death is better than a wretched life, and eternal rest than continual sickness. Good things spread out before a mouth that is closed are like piles of food laid on a grave. What good is an offering of fruit to an idol? It can neither eat nor smell. That is the way with a man who is afflicted by the Lord: he sees things with his eyes and groans like a eunuch embracing a girl!
(verse 21): Do not give yourself up to sorrow, and do not distress yourself of your own accord. Gladness of heart is a man's life and exultant joy prolongs his days. Be kind to yourself and comfort your heart, and put sorrow far from you; for sorrow has destroyed many, and there is no profit in it. Envy and anger shorten a man's days, and worry brings on old age before its time. A heart that is cheerful and good will pay attention to the food he eats.
The man who loves his son will continually beat him, so that he may be glad at the end. The man who disciplines his son will profit by him, and boast of him among his acquaintances; the man who teaches his son will make his enemy jealous, and exult over him before his friends. When his father dies, it is as though he were not dead, for he leaves behind him one like himself. In his lifetime he sees him and rejoices, and in death he does not grieve. He has left one to avenge him upon his enemies, and to repay the kindness of his friends. The man who spoils his son will have to bind up his wounds, and his heart will tremble at every cry. An unbroken horse turns out stubborn, and a son left to himself grows up headstrong. If you pamper your child, he will astonish you. Play with him, and he will grieve you; do not laugh with him, so that you may not have to mourn with him and gnash your teeth over him at last. Do not allow him liberty in his youth; bruise his sides while he is a child, so that he will not become stubborn and disobey you. Discipline your son and take pains with him, so that he will not distress you with his bad behavior.
(verse 14): A poor man who is well and has a strong constitution is better off than a rich man who is afflicted in body. Health and good constitution are better than any amount of gold, and a strong body than untold riches. There is no greater wealth than health of body, and there is no greater happiness than gladness of heart. Death is better than a wretched life, and eternal rest than continual sickness. Good things spread out before a mouth that is closed are like piles of food laid on a grave. What good is an offering of fruit to an idol? It can neither eat nor smell. That is the way with a man who is afflicted by the Lord: he sees things with his eyes and groans like a eunuch embracing a girl!
(verse 21): Do not give yourself up to sorrow, and do not distress yourself of your own accord. Gladness of heart is a man's life and exultant joy prolongs his days. Be kind to yourself and comfort your heart, and put sorrow far from you; for sorrow has destroyed many, and there is no profit in it. Envy and anger shorten a man's days, and worry brings on old age before its time. A heart that is cheerful and good will pay attention to the food he eats.
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
Dr. Matthew Bartlett, O.D. - eye exam and new lens prescription
A great healthcare provider -- he took the time at the SEARS OPTICAL store to give us in-depth analysis and feedback about our ocular health and blood pressure as well as cholesterol/cataract indicators. . .He recognized quickly that my March 2007 prescription was way too outmoded and I will have new eyeglasses in 7-10 days. The price of the exam was a quite affordable $54 -- more about this optometrist as we get our new glasses (Becky also ordered reading glasses & prescription sunglasses) . . .
2 p.m. appointment involved reading charts of course but also the "puff" test and retinal exam as well as brain hemisphere check-up of some sort . . .very interesting and quite a personable, non-threatening guy.
This progressive and understanding physician has the "Bartlett Eye Clinic" at 332 N. Michigan St., South Bend, IN 46601 -- phone (574)-232-5955 as well as his Sears (in University Park Mall) practice on selected days (Tues., Thurs., Sat.).
2 p.m. appointment involved reading charts of course but also the "puff" test and retinal exam as well as brain hemisphere check-up of some sort . . .very interesting and quite a personable, non-threatening guy.
This progressive and understanding physician has the "Bartlett Eye Clinic" at 332 N. Michigan St., South Bend, IN 46601 -- phone (574)-232-5955 as well as his Sears (in University Park Mall) practice on selected days (Tues., Thurs., Sat.).
Ben Sira - chapter 29
29: 1-28 (part of this chapter is an acrostic: translated by Edgar Goodspeed)
The man who shows mercy will lend to his neighbor, and the man who takes him by the hand keeps the commandments. Lend to your neighbor when he is in need, and pay your neighbor back again when it is time. Keep your word and keep faith with him, and in every emergency you will find what you need. Many consider a loan as a windfall, and bring trouble on those who help them. A man will kiss another man's hands until he gets it; and speak humbly about his neighbor's money; but when payment is due, he extends the time, and answers indifferently, and find fault about the time of payment. If a man succeeds, he will hardly get half of it, and he will consider that a windfall. If he does not, the other has defrauded him of his money, and needlessly made him his enemy; he will pay him with curses and abuse, and repay him with insults instead of honor. Many refuse to lend, not from their wickedness, but they are afraid of being needlessly defrauded. But be patient with a poor man, and do not make him wait for charity. For the commandment's sake help the needy man, and in view of his need, do not send him away unsatisfied. Lose your money for the sake of a brother or a friend, and do not let it rust to ruin under a stone. Lay up your treasure according to the commandments of the Most High, and it will be more profitable to you than gold. Store up gifts to charity in your storerooms, and it will deliver you from all harm. Better than a mighty shield and a ponderous spear, it will fight for you against your enemy. A good man will go surety for his neighbor, but the man who has lost his sense of shame will abandon him. Do not forget the favor your surety has done you, for he has put himself in your place. A sinner will disregard the service done him by his surety, and an ungrateful man will forsake the man who saved him. Going surety has ruined many prosperous men, and shaken them like an ocean wave. It has driven influential men out of their houses, and made them wander among foreign nations. A sinner fails in acting as security, and the man who pursues profits falls into lawsuits. Help your neighbor to the best of your ability, but take heed that you do not fall. The basis of life is water and bread and clothing, and a house to cover one's nakedness. The life of a poor man under a shelter of logs is better than splendid fare in someone else's house. Be contented with much or little, and you will not hear the reporach of being a stranger. It is a miserable life to go from house to house; and where you are a stranger, you cannot open your mouth. If you entertain others and give them drink, you will have not thanks, and besides that you will have bitter things to hear: "Come in, stranger, set the table, and if you have anything with you, let me have it to eat." "Get out stranger, here is somebody more important; my brother has come to be my gues; I need my house." These things are trying to a man of sensiblity: the reproach of a household and the abuse of a creditor.
The man who shows mercy will lend to his neighbor, and the man who takes him by the hand keeps the commandments. Lend to your neighbor when he is in need, and pay your neighbor back again when it is time. Keep your word and keep faith with him, and in every emergency you will find what you need. Many consider a loan as a windfall, and bring trouble on those who help them. A man will kiss another man's hands until he gets it; and speak humbly about his neighbor's money; but when payment is due, he extends the time, and answers indifferently, and find fault about the time of payment. If a man succeeds, he will hardly get half of it, and he will consider that a windfall. If he does not, the other has defrauded him of his money, and needlessly made him his enemy; he will pay him with curses and abuse, and repay him with insults instead of honor. Many refuse to lend, not from their wickedness, but they are afraid of being needlessly defrauded. But be patient with a poor man, and do not make him wait for charity. For the commandment's sake help the needy man, and in view of his need, do not send him away unsatisfied. Lose your money for the sake of a brother or a friend, and do not let it rust to ruin under a stone. Lay up your treasure according to the commandments of the Most High, and it will be more profitable to you than gold. Store up gifts to charity in your storerooms, and it will deliver you from all harm. Better than a mighty shield and a ponderous spear, it will fight for you against your enemy. A good man will go surety for his neighbor, but the man who has lost his sense of shame will abandon him. Do not forget the favor your surety has done you, for he has put himself in your place. A sinner will disregard the service done him by his surety, and an ungrateful man will forsake the man who saved him. Going surety has ruined many prosperous men, and shaken them like an ocean wave. It has driven influential men out of their houses, and made them wander among foreign nations. A sinner fails in acting as security, and the man who pursues profits falls into lawsuits. Help your neighbor to the best of your ability, but take heed that you do not fall. The basis of life is water and bread and clothing, and a house to cover one's nakedness. The life of a poor man under a shelter of logs is better than splendid fare in someone else's house. Be contented with much or little, and you will not hear the reporach of being a stranger. It is a miserable life to go from house to house; and where you are a stranger, you cannot open your mouth. If you entertain others and give them drink, you will have not thanks, and besides that you will have bitter things to hear: "Come in, stranger, set the table, and if you have anything with you, let me have it to eat." "Get out stranger, here is somebody more important; my brother has come to be my gues; I need my house." These things are trying to a man of sensiblity: the reproach of a household and the abuse of a creditor.
Monday, August 16, 2010
Who's that "chowhound" in Air Force One? -- posted at Obama Foodorama blog early on Aug. 16
En route to Florida, Bo snoops for foodie treats from the White House press corps...
On Saturday, as President Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama, accompanied by daughter Sasha traveled aboard Air Force One on the way to a quick weekend trip to promote Gulf Coast tourism and seafood in Panama City Beach, Florida, First Dog Bo had the run of the Flying White House, just as he does at home at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue.
Bo popped back to visit the press corps in their cabin numerous times during the almost two-hour flight, drawn by the delightful smells emanating from the extra special AF1 food, which included Monte Christo sandwiches and chips.
"He hung out for quite a bit, sitting obediently and at one point plopping his paws up on your pooler's seat in hopes of a treat," wrote Carol E. Lee of Politico, in an e-mail pool report. Lee added that although Bo "repeatedly returned to visit pool," once there was no food around, he quickly got bored and "didn't linger for long," dashing back up the aisle to the Presidential cabin.
The food on AF1 has a reputation for being terrific; the plane has two galleys and carries as many as five chefs during long journeys. And Bo dashing the aisles of AF1 has been mentioned by pool reporters before. At the White House, Bo has something of a habit of holding impromptu meet n' greets with reporters, too. During the State Dinner with Mexico, Bo came and said some tail-wagging hellos to Ob Fo and reporter Helena Bottemiller during his evening stroll on the North Lawn.
After AF1 arrived in Florida, Bo, then on leash, was escorted to a waiting motorcade vehicle by a White House aide.
Photos supplied by reporters / correspondents at Eddie Gehman Kohan's blog (here at Google Blogger):
http://obamafoodorama.blogspot.com/2010/08/first-dog-bo-air-force-one-chowhound.html
On Saturday, as President Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama, accompanied by daughter Sasha traveled aboard Air Force One on the way to a quick weekend trip to promote Gulf Coast tourism and seafood in Panama City Beach, Florida, First Dog Bo had the run of the Flying White House, just as he does at home at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue.
Bo popped back to visit the press corps in their cabin numerous times during the almost two-hour flight, drawn by the delightful smells emanating from the extra special AF1 food, which included Monte Christo sandwiches and chips.
"He hung out for quite a bit, sitting obediently and at one point plopping his paws up on your pooler's seat in hopes of a treat," wrote Carol E. Lee of Politico, in an e-mail pool report. Lee added that although Bo "repeatedly returned to visit pool," once there was no food around, he quickly got bored and "didn't linger for long," dashing back up the aisle to the Presidential cabin.
The food on AF1 has a reputation for being terrific; the plane has two galleys and carries as many as five chefs during long journeys. And Bo dashing the aisles of AF1 has been mentioned by pool reporters before. At the White House, Bo has something of a habit of holding impromptu meet n' greets with reporters, too. During the State Dinner with Mexico, Bo came and said some tail-wagging hellos to Ob Fo and reporter Helena Bottemiller during his evening stroll on the North Lawn.
After AF1 arrived in Florida, Bo, then on leash, was escorted to a waiting motorcade vehicle by a White House aide.
Photos supplied by reporters / correspondents at Eddie Gehman Kohan's blog (here at Google Blogger):
http://obamafoodorama.blogspot.com/2010/08/first-dog-bo-air-force-one-chowhound.html
Ben Sira - chapter 28
28: 1 - 26 (translated by Edgar Goodspeed)
The one who takes vengeance will have vengeance taken on him by the Lord, and the Lord will keep close watch of his sins. Forgive your neighbor his wrongdoing; then your sins will be forgiven when you pray. Shall one cherish anger against another, and yet ask healing from the Lord? Does that one have no mercy on one such as himself, and yet pray for his own sins? If such a one, though he is flesh and blood, cherishes anger, who will atone for his sins? Remember your end and give up your enmity; think of death and destruction, and stand by the commandments. Remember the commandments, and do not be angry with your neighbor; think of the agreement of the Most High, and overlook human ignorance. Keep from quarreling and you will reduce your sins, for a passionate person kindles quarrels. A sinful person creates dissension among friends, and arouses enmity among those who are at peace. The more fuel, the more the fire will burn, and the more obstinate the quarrel, the more it will burn. The stronger a man is, the greater is his anger, and the richer he is, the haughtier will his wrath be. A hurried dispute kindles a fire, and a hasty quarrel means bloodshed. If you blow on a spark, it will blaze, and if you spit on it, it will be put out; yet both come out of your mouth. Curse the whisperer and the deceitful person; for that one has destroyed many who were at peace. A third person's tongue has stirred many up, and removed them from one nation to another; it has torn down strongly fortified cities, and overthrown the houses of the great. A third person's tongue has driven out noble women, and robbed them of the fruit of their labors. The one who listens to it will find no rest, and will not live in peace. The blow of a whip leaves a bruise, but the blow of a tongue breaks the bones. Many have fallen by the edge of the sword, but not so many as have fallen by the tongue. Happy is the person who is protected from it, who does not feel its anger, who does not bear its yoke, and is not bound with its chains. For its yoke is an iron yoke, and its chains are brazen chains; its death is a cruel death, and Hades is better than it. It will not control godly people, and they will not be burned in its fire. Those who forsake the Lord will fall into it, and it will burn at them and not be put out; it will be sent upon them like a lion, and ravage them like a leopard. If you see to hedging your property in with throns, and shut up your silver and gold, make balances and scales to weigh your words, and make a barred door for your mouth. Take heed not to make a slip with it, or you will fall before someone lying in wait for you.
The one who takes vengeance will have vengeance taken on him by the Lord, and the Lord will keep close watch of his sins. Forgive your neighbor his wrongdoing; then your sins will be forgiven when you pray. Shall one cherish anger against another, and yet ask healing from the Lord? Does that one have no mercy on one such as himself, and yet pray for his own sins? If such a one, though he is flesh and blood, cherishes anger, who will atone for his sins? Remember your end and give up your enmity; think of death and destruction, and stand by the commandments. Remember the commandments, and do not be angry with your neighbor; think of the agreement of the Most High, and overlook human ignorance. Keep from quarreling and you will reduce your sins, for a passionate person kindles quarrels. A sinful person creates dissension among friends, and arouses enmity among those who are at peace. The more fuel, the more the fire will burn, and the more obstinate the quarrel, the more it will burn. The stronger a man is, the greater is his anger, and the richer he is, the haughtier will his wrath be. A hurried dispute kindles a fire, and a hasty quarrel means bloodshed. If you blow on a spark, it will blaze, and if you spit on it, it will be put out; yet both come out of your mouth. Curse the whisperer and the deceitful person; for that one has destroyed many who were at peace. A third person's tongue has stirred many up, and removed them from one nation to another; it has torn down strongly fortified cities, and overthrown the houses of the great. A third person's tongue has driven out noble women, and robbed them of the fruit of their labors. The one who listens to it will find no rest, and will not live in peace. The blow of a whip leaves a bruise, but the blow of a tongue breaks the bones. Many have fallen by the edge of the sword, but not so many as have fallen by the tongue. Happy is the person who is protected from it, who does not feel its anger, who does not bear its yoke, and is not bound with its chains. For its yoke is an iron yoke, and its chains are brazen chains; its death is a cruel death, and Hades is better than it. It will not control godly people, and they will not be burned in its fire. Those who forsake the Lord will fall into it, and it will burn at them and not be put out; it will be sent upon them like a lion, and ravage them like a leopard. If you see to hedging your property in with throns, and shut up your silver and gold, make balances and scales to weigh your words, and make a barred door for your mouth. Take heed not to make a slip with it, or you will fall before someone lying in wait for you.
Sunday, August 15, 2010
Fr. James Quinn -- hymnwriter of "Christ Beside Me" -- + died April 8 this year
The hymns of Father James Quinn, SJ are found in almost every contemporary English language hymnal , taken from his collections New Hymns for All Seasons and Praise for All Seasons. His publisher, Selah, described him as “one of the finest writers of hymn texts of our time”. -- this obituary published in http://www.jesuit.org.uk/ in their May/June e-newsletter
James Quinn was born in Glasgow on 21 April 1919. He was educated at St Aloysius’ College and Glasgow University, and joined the Society of Jesus in 1939. After studying at Heythrop College, Oxfordshire, he taught at St Wilfrid’s School in Preston before being ordained in 1950. He also taught at Wimbledon College in South London, and served in Sacred Heart parish, Edinburgh.
In the 1960s, Fr Quinn worked on the cause for the canonisation of St John Ogilvie. Over the 1960s and ‘70s, he was an observer at the assembly of theWorld Alliance of Reformed Churches; a consultant to the World Council of Churches’ Faith and Order conference; a member of the Scottish Religious Advisory Committee of the BBC; and a participant in various ecumenical dialogues for the British Council of Churches. Fr Quinn also served as a consultant to the International Commission on English in the Liturgy (1972-1976).
Between 1976 and 1980 he was spiritual director at the Beda College in Rome. From 1980, Fr Quinn served as Secretary on the Scottish Commission for Christian Unity, being appointed seven years later as
Episcopal Vicar for Ecumenism in the Archdiocese of Edinburgh.
Fr James Quinn SJ died on 8 April 2010 at St Joseph’s House in Edinburgh, where he had spent the past ten years.
James Quinn was born in Glasgow on 21 April 1919. He was educated at St Aloysius’ College and Glasgow University, and joined the Society of Jesus in 1939. After studying at Heythrop College, Oxfordshire, he taught at St Wilfrid’s School in Preston before being ordained in 1950. He also taught at Wimbledon College in South London, and served in Sacred Heart parish, Edinburgh.
In the 1960s, Fr Quinn worked on the cause for the canonisation of St John Ogilvie. Over the 1960s and ‘70s, he was an observer at the assembly of theWorld Alliance of Reformed Churches; a consultant to the World Council of Churches’ Faith and Order conference; a member of the Scottish Religious Advisory Committee of the BBC; and a participant in various ecumenical dialogues for the British Council of Churches. Fr Quinn also served as a consultant to the International Commission on English in the Liturgy (1972-1976).
Between 1976 and 1980 he was spiritual director at the Beda College in Rome. From 1980, Fr Quinn served as Secretary on the Scottish Commission for Christian Unity, being appointed seven years later as
Episcopal Vicar for Ecumenism in the Archdiocese of Edinburgh.
Fr James Quinn SJ died on 8 April 2010 at St Joseph’s House in Edinburgh, where he had spent the past ten years.
Third Hymn - morning worship (10:40 this morning August 15) - from St. Patrick's Breastplate
an adaptation of the Irish familiar poem-hymn by St. Patrick -- hymn adapter is James Quinn, S.J.
"Christ be beside me, Christ be before me,
Christ be behind me. King of my heart.
Christ be within me, Christ be below me,
Christ be above me, never to part.
Christ on my right hand, Christ on my left hand,
Christ all around me, shield in the strife.
Christ in my sleeping, Christ in my sitting,
Christ in my rising, light of my life.
Christ be in all hearts thinking about me,
Christ be in all tongues telling of me.
Christ be the vision in eyes that see me;
in ears that hear me, Christ ever be."
"Christ be beside me, Christ be before me,
Christ be behind me. King of my heart.
Christ be within me, Christ be below me,
Christ be above me, never to part.
Christ on my right hand, Christ on my left hand,
Christ all around me, shield in the strife.
Christ in my sleeping, Christ in my sitting,
Christ in my rising, light of my life.
Christ be in all hearts thinking about me,
Christ be in all tongues telling of me.
Christ be the vision in eyes that see me;
in ears that hear me, Christ ever be."
Tuesday 8/17: with release of autobiography and book store signing, "Tommy James" day in Niles High School
Niles native Tommy James (Jackson), lead singer of Tommy James and The Shodells and songwriter of such hits as “Hanky Panky,” which was recorded in Niles, will be autographing copies of his book ME, THE MUSIC, AND THE MOB at Majerek’s Reader’s World, 217 East Main St., Tuesday, Aug. 17 from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. This event is part of Tommy James Day in Niles with a Tommy James Homecoming event at the Niles High School at 7 p.m.
His most famous hits range from several more that made it to the top ten: "I Think We're Alone Now", "Mirage", "Mony Mony", "Crimson and Clover" (the group's second and final U.S. #1 hit), "Sweet Cherry Wine", and "Crystal Blue Persuasion."
Tommy James and The Shondells broke up in 1970. James then went solo and had two further chart hits with "Draggin' the Line" (Written by Bob King) (#4 in 1971) and "Three Times In Love" (#19 (Adult Contemporary #1) in 1980). James has had twenty-three gold singles, and nine gold and platinum albums. He also wrote and produced the million-selling 1970 hit "Tighter, Tighter" for the group Alive 'N Kickin' (written by Bob King).
www.tommyjames.com/ [official website]
His most famous hits range from several more that made it to the top ten: "I Think We're Alone Now", "Mirage", "Mony Mony", "Crimson and Clover" (the group's second and final U.S. #1 hit), "Sweet Cherry Wine", and "Crystal Blue Persuasion."
Tommy James and The Shondells broke up in 1970. James then went solo and had two further chart hits with "Draggin' the Line" (Written by Bob King) (#4 in 1971) and "Three Times In Love" (#19 (Adult Contemporary #1) in 1980). James has had twenty-three gold singles, and nine gold and platinum albums. He also wrote and produced the million-selling 1970 hit "Tighter, Tighter" for the group Alive 'N Kickin' (written by Bob King).
www.tommyjames.com/ [official website]
Ben Sira - chapter 27
27: 1-30 (Translated by Edgar Goodspeed)
Many sin for the sake of gain, and the man who is intent on increasing what he has, has to shut his eyes. A peg will stick between the joints of stones, and between buying and selling, sin is ground out. Unless a man earnestly holds on to the fear of the Lord, his house will soon be overturned. When a sieve is shaken, the refuse remains in it; so when a man reasons, his filth remains. The furnace tests the potter's dishes, and the test of a person is in his reasoning/conversation. Its fruit shows how the tree has been cultivated; so does the expression of the person's speech/thought. Do not praise a man, before you hear him reason, for that is the way men are tested. If you pursue what is right, you will overtake it, and put it on like a splendid robe. Birds roost with their own kind, and truth comes back to those who practice it. The lion lies in wait for his prey, and so does sin for those who do wrong. The discourse/conversation of the godly is always wise, but the fool changes like the moon. Among unintelligent people watch your opportunity to leave, but among thoughtful people stay on. The discourse of fools is offensive, and their laughter is wanton sinfulness. A profane man's talk makes your hair stand on end, and their quarreling makes you stop your ears. When arrogant men quarrel, there is bloodshed. And their abuse of one another is dreadful to hear. The one who tells secrets destroys confidence, and will not find a friend to his mind. If you love your friend, keep faith with him, but if you tell his secrets, do not pursue him. For sure as a man loses the dead, you have lost your neighbor's friendship, and as you have let a bird out of your hand, you have let your neighbor out, and you will never catch him. Do not go after him, for he is far away, and has made his escape like a gazelle from a trap. For you can bind up a wound, and be reconciled after abuse, but for the man who tells secrets there is no hope. A man who winks his eye plots mischief, and no one can keep it from him. Face to face with you he speaks sweetly, and will show respect for what you say; but afterward he will twist his lips, and make a stumbling block of your words. I have hated many things, but nothing like him, and the Lord hates him too. The man who throws a stone into the air is throwing it on his own head, and treacherous blow wounds both. The man who digs a hole will fall into it, and the man who sets a trap will be caught in it. If a man does wicked things, they will roll on him, and he will not know where they come from. Mockery and abuse overtake arrogant men, and vengeance lies in wait for them like a lion. Those who enjoy the downfall of the godly will be caught in a trap, and pain will consume them before they die. Wrath and anger are also detestable, and the sinful man clings to them.
Many sin for the sake of gain, and the man who is intent on increasing what he has, has to shut his eyes. A peg will stick between the joints of stones, and between buying and selling, sin is ground out. Unless a man earnestly holds on to the fear of the Lord, his house will soon be overturned. When a sieve is shaken, the refuse remains in it; so when a man reasons, his filth remains. The furnace tests the potter's dishes, and the test of a person is in his reasoning/conversation. Its fruit shows how the tree has been cultivated; so does the expression of the person's speech/thought. Do not praise a man, before you hear him reason, for that is the way men are tested. If you pursue what is right, you will overtake it, and put it on like a splendid robe. Birds roost with their own kind, and truth comes back to those who practice it. The lion lies in wait for his prey, and so does sin for those who do wrong. The discourse/conversation of the godly is always wise, but the fool changes like the moon. Among unintelligent people watch your opportunity to leave, but among thoughtful people stay on. The discourse of fools is offensive, and their laughter is wanton sinfulness. A profane man's talk makes your hair stand on end, and their quarreling makes you stop your ears. When arrogant men quarrel, there is bloodshed. And their abuse of one another is dreadful to hear. The one who tells secrets destroys confidence, and will not find a friend to his mind. If you love your friend, keep faith with him, but if you tell his secrets, do not pursue him. For sure as a man loses the dead, you have lost your neighbor's friendship, and as you have let a bird out of your hand, you have let your neighbor out, and you will never catch him. Do not go after him, for he is far away, and has made his escape like a gazelle from a trap. For you can bind up a wound, and be reconciled after abuse, but for the man who tells secrets there is no hope. A man who winks his eye plots mischief, and no one can keep it from him. Face to face with you he speaks sweetly, and will show respect for what you say; but afterward he will twist his lips, and make a stumbling block of your words. I have hated many things, but nothing like him, and the Lord hates him too. The man who throws a stone into the air is throwing it on his own head, and treacherous blow wounds both. The man who digs a hole will fall into it, and the man who sets a trap will be caught in it. If a man does wicked things, they will roll on him, and he will not know where they come from. Mockery and abuse overtake arrogant men, and vengeance lies in wait for them like a lion. Those who enjoy the downfall of the godly will be caught in a trap, and pain will consume them before they die. Wrath and anger are also detestable, and the sinful man clings to them.
Saturday, August 14, 2010
Dr. Ann Resnik, DVM -- prescription and urgent care exam
Our dog Taylor has a sprained limb and needs to limit his activity and climbing in particular -- after the Office appointment/urgent care ($50) our older beagle will need to take Deramaxx (25 mg.) and discontinue the buffered aspirin we were self-medicating him with. She also wrote on the care notes/receipt to give him "cage confinement". The dosage of the analagesic can be halved once improvement is noted. The Saturday morning office visit confirmed that he does not have any noticeable muscle/joint dislocation.
Thanks for reading and wondering how this canine member of our household is doing!
Thanks for reading and wondering how this canine member of our household is doing!
Vet appointment for dog Taylor - mid-morning Saturday
9 a.m. -- Becky has telephoned to request a vet consultation due to Taylor's motion difficulties and obvious limb stiffness and lack of mobility. Once our vets at Edwardsburg (East Shore Animal Hospital) see him, I will record some more news here about this diagnosis and course of medicine or therapy. He is a four-year-old purebreed Beagle but has always had a lot of shakiness and fear of strangers.
Ben Sira - chapter 26
26: 1-18, 28-29 [middle verses not in original Greek of this book: translated by Edgar Goodspeed]
Happy is the man who has a good wife! the number of his days is doubled. A noble wife gladdens her husband, and he lives out his years in peace. A wife is good fortune; she falls to the lot of those who fear the Lord, whether rich or poor, he has a stout heart; and always had a cheerful face. There are three things my heart is afraid of, and a fourth person that I fear: town gossip, and the gathering of a mob, and a false accusation -- these are all worse than death. It is heartache and sorrow when one wife is the rival of another, and a tongue-lashing that exposes things to everybody. A wicked woman is a chafing ox-yoke; taking hold of her is like grasping a scorpion. A drunken woman gets very angry, and does not even cover up her own shame. A woman's immorality is revealed by her roving looks, and by her eyelids. Keep a close watch over a headstrong daughter, for if she is allowed her liberty, she may take advantage of it. Keep watch over a roving eye, and do not be surprised if it offends against you. Like a thristy traveler who opens his mouth and drinks of any water that is near, she will sit down before every tent peg, and open her quiver to the arrow.
The grace of a wife is a gift from the Lord, and a well-trained spirit is beyond estimation. A modest wife is blessing after blessing, and a self-controlled spirit no scales can weigh. Like the sun rising on the Lord's loftiest heights, is the beauty of a good woman as she keeps her house in order. Like a lamp shining on the holy lampstand, is a beautiful face on a good figure. Like gold pillars on silver bases are beautiful feet with shapely heels.
verses 28 - 29: Over two things my heart is grieved, and over a third anger overcomes me: a soldier in poverty and want, and men of understanding who are treated like dirt, and the man who turns back from uprightness to sin -- The Lord will prepare a sword for him! A merchant can hardly keep himself from doing wrong, and a storekeeper cannot be acquitted of sin.
Happy is the man who has a good wife! the number of his days is doubled. A noble wife gladdens her husband, and he lives out his years in peace. A wife is good fortune; she falls to the lot of those who fear the Lord, whether rich or poor, he has a stout heart; and always had a cheerful face. There are three things my heart is afraid of, and a fourth person that I fear: town gossip, and the gathering of a mob, and a false accusation -- these are all worse than death. It is heartache and sorrow when one wife is the rival of another, and a tongue-lashing that exposes things to everybody. A wicked woman is a chafing ox-yoke; taking hold of her is like grasping a scorpion. A drunken woman gets very angry, and does not even cover up her own shame. A woman's immorality is revealed by her roving looks, and by her eyelids. Keep a close watch over a headstrong daughter, for if she is allowed her liberty, she may take advantage of it. Keep watch over a roving eye, and do not be surprised if it offends against you. Like a thristy traveler who opens his mouth and drinks of any water that is near, she will sit down before every tent peg, and open her quiver to the arrow.
The grace of a wife is a gift from the Lord, and a well-trained spirit is beyond estimation. A modest wife is blessing after blessing, and a self-controlled spirit no scales can weigh. Like the sun rising on the Lord's loftiest heights, is the beauty of a good woman as she keeps her house in order. Like a lamp shining on the holy lampstand, is a beautiful face on a good figure. Like gold pillars on silver bases are beautiful feet with shapely heels.
verses 28 - 29: Over two things my heart is grieved, and over a third anger overcomes me: a soldier in poverty and want, and men of understanding who are treated like dirt, and the man who turns back from uprightness to sin -- The Lord will prepare a sword for him! A merchant can hardly keep himself from doing wrong, and a storekeeper cannot be acquitted of sin.
Friday, August 13, 2010
Lucky for all of us! -- no more Fridays the 13th until May 2011 -- comments on M-Live website
from a Saginaw News article:
But why has this seemingly innocent number been deemed so terribly unlucky? Many buildings don't have a 13th floor, some hospitals and hotels skip room 13, and airports don't have a gate 13.
Is it possible that 13's bad luck comes from its place after popular number 12? It's easy to find references to 12 in history, almost anywhere you look: 12 signs of the zodiac, 12 days of Christmas, 12 apostles of Jesus, 12 tribes of Israel, and on and on. Though the superstition, also known as paraskavedekatriaphobia, is widespread, it's difficult to trace its true origin.
Jim Stickle, mental health therapist for the Saginaw County Community Mental Health Authority, said fear of Friday the 13th is a different kind of fear than a fear of things like spiders or heights. Functional fear, Stickle said, makes us stay away from things we're afraid — the poisonous spider or the edge of a dangerous cliff — and keeps us alive, but phobias are dysfunctional fears that stop us from participating in everyday activities. "Fear of Friday the 13th is a socialized fear where somebody, somewhere along the ling said bad things are supposed to happen on that day," Stickle said. "It's conditioning."
Wherever the phobia comes from, enjoy or tread carefully the remaining hours of this pseudo holiday, the next one doesn't come until May 2011. So, enjoy or tread carefully the remaining hours of this pseudo holiday, the next one doesn't come until May 2011.
www.mlive.com/
But why has this seemingly innocent number been deemed so terribly unlucky? Many buildings don't have a 13th floor, some hospitals and hotels skip room 13, and airports don't have a gate 13.
Is it possible that 13's bad luck comes from its place after popular number 12? It's easy to find references to 12 in history, almost anywhere you look: 12 signs of the zodiac, 12 days of Christmas, 12 apostles of Jesus, 12 tribes of Israel, and on and on. Though the superstition, also known as paraskavedekatriaphobia, is widespread, it's difficult to trace its true origin.
Jim Stickle, mental health therapist for the Saginaw County Community Mental Health Authority, said fear of Friday the 13th is a different kind of fear than a fear of things like spiders or heights. Functional fear, Stickle said, makes us stay away from things we're afraid — the poisonous spider or the edge of a dangerous cliff — and keeps us alive, but phobias are dysfunctional fears that stop us from participating in everyday activities. "Fear of Friday the 13th is a socialized fear where somebody, somewhere along the ling said bad things are supposed to happen on that day," Stickle said. "It's conditioning."
Wherever the phobia comes from, enjoy or tread carefully the remaining hours of this pseudo holiday, the next one doesn't come until May 2011. So, enjoy or tread carefully the remaining hours of this pseudo holiday, the next one doesn't come until May 2011.
www.mlive.com/
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