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Resilience Quote of the Day Expand / Collapse
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Posted Saturday, October 31, 2009 10:56 PM


 

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Ecclesiastes 3:1-8
A Time for Everything


There is a time for everything,
and a season for every activity under heaven:
A time to be born and a time to die,
A time to plant and a time to uproot,
A time to kill and a time to heal,
A time to tear down and a time to build,
A time to weep and a time to laugh,
A time to mourn and a time to dance,
A time to scatter stones and a time to gather them,
A time to embrace and a time to refrain,
A time to search and a time to give up,
A time to keep and a time to throw away,
A time to tear and a time to mend,
A time to be silent and a time to speak,
A time to love and a time to hate,
A time for war and a time for peace.


Post #4252523
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Posted Saturday, October 31, 2009 11:18 PM


 

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As another holiday season approaches, it's often easy to get caught up in the joy and anticipation of traditions renewed, faith fulfilled and joy overflowing. I share that optimism and excitement. At the same time, that happiness is mixed with awareness that life isn't filled only with peace and love, even during the holidays. While many are blessed with loving relationships, some of us are lonely, and others grieve broken relationships that seem beyond repair. While many are blessed with resources that fuel exciting shopping sprees, others struggle to keep a roof over their heads, feed their families and find health care they desperately need. Life is a blend of emotions, and not all of them are happy, even during the holidays.

So, I try and approach them with an open heart and a real awareness of the meaning behind the season. Use this as a time to reach out and heal those relationships you once felt were broken forever. Do it even at the risk of rejection . . . and, if you are rejected, you'll have the peace of knowing you tried. If you have resources, invest them in those who have less. Feel free to buy gifts for those you love, but remember that the best gifts are in sharing with those who have less and in giving of yourself. Finally, remember always that you're never truly alone. One of the most important gifts of the season is the knowledge that God shared his love so that we may have life more abundant . . . even those of us who are poor, lonely, or afraid.

For everything there is a season, and a time for every purpose under heaven.

Take Care,
Pam
Post #4252546
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Posted Sunday, November 01, 2009 8:41 AM


 

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YES, AND I AM SO VERY THANKFUL THAT GOD CARES AND IS WITH ME THROUGH ALL OF THE GOOD AND BAD. I COULDN'T DO IT ALONE!
Post #4252659
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Posted Sunday, November 01, 2009 10:22 AM


 

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Well said, Geneva. I couldn't agree more!
Post #4252713
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Posted Sunday, November 01, 2009 11:10 AM


 

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So well said, Pam! There is one thing that we can always give, no matter our financial or physical circumstances: that is ourselves. We can give love, prayer, compassion, friendship, a listening ear, a hug...the list goes on. As we watch our economy continue to slide downhill, may this be a time to truly learn and put into practice this lesson.

Due to overwhelming medical bills and a huge loss in tutoring clients, I'm one struggling financially. Yet, there is such a peace in my heart regarding the upcoming holiday season. My SIL and I were talking last night. She, my brother, and niece may be coming up for Thanksgiving. They are struggling financially, as well. We both decided to forego the expense of preparing the big meal and just enjoy each others' company with plentiful pots of soup, homemade breads, etc. We're both looking forward to a much less complicated time. We'll have more time to visit, play games, and just hang out. It sounds great to me!

God bless,

Robin
Post #4252738
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Posted Sunday, November 01, 2009 1:51 PM


 

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Thanks for sharing your thoughts and experiences, Robin. I'm in a similar situation this year, as are so many of us in one way or another. It's in those struggles and the strength we gain from them that make us human, and I'm thankful for that.

Take Care,
Pam
Post #4252848
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Posted Sunday, November 01, 2009 6:38 PM


 

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Pam, you've done it again. This is one of my favorite Scriptures. In the 60's, it was made into a song by The Turtles (I think).

Your words are so beautiful and so appropriate. This disease can be so all consuming that sometimes we forget how blessed we are. You so eloquently reminded us about all we have and how grateful we should be. Thank you.

By the way, do you write poetry? Your writing is so fluid.
Post #4253033
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Posted Sunday, November 01, 2009 10:41 PM


 

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Thank you. That song has been running through my mind since I first posted this quote. It's been a long time since I last wrote poetry, but I appreciate your kind words.

Take Care,
Pam
Post #4253249
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Posted Sunday, November 01, 2009 11:15 PM


 

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I'd have to agree! I love your writing. I wish I could write as well as you do. I've always had a hard time putting words together and now even more with everything going on.

God Bless all my RA Friends!

Post #4253270
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Posted Monday, November 02, 2009 10:38 AM


 

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Thanks, Tammy.
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