A place where my thoughts, words and feelings converge…
Author: charlotteannrobinson.com
I enjoy reading, writing and searching for truths. I am active in my church and like participating in small groups learning and developing new ideas and skills in becoming the person God created me to be. God has blessed me with so much and my desire is to share my thoughts and words with you in hopes they comfort and inspire you.
This collection of words does not meet the rules of writing a sonnet, so yes I have used the term incorrectly. Perhaps it should be “sonnet -like.” Either way, I appreciate you stopping by to read my words, I am grateful.
September 21st, 2023
Photo Credit: Me October 3rd, 2018
Alone in a dark room Only the sound of a whirling fan How sweet the white noise
Cocooned with pillows and blankets Warmth and cool surround I don’t want to move
Shut the world out Screams wanting to let go Heart pounding, teeth clenched
Resistance is bubbling Heart is breaking Head is spinning
Wanting this to pass me by Knowing the choice is made Fears must go to let love grow
Paths unknown Emotions restrained Hope through fog
Joshua Installed as Leader “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”
—Joshua 1:9 (NIV)
The words of Jesus to the Disciples “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
—John 16:33b (NIV)
~Charlotte, Seeker of unexpected Comfort, Happiness, Joy and Patience.
I just finished a book by C.S.Lewis called, “The Pilgrims Regress,” it is a allegory and after reading, it set my mind thinking and below is what it inspired. If you have not read it orread “The Pilgrim’s Progress” by John Bunyan, I will include the summary below for each.
Thank you for stopping by and reading my blog today.
—C. S. Lewis—John Bunyan
Once again I’m surrounded by things that belonged to her, as my eyes browse through the rooms of this home, “I wonder.” Mr. Brush, was her hair the last to touch your bristles? What of you Mr. Scissors, she held you for many years and over many long hours. You were a confidant & friend always appreciated, though sometimes out of need while other times just for creativity. Mr. Pillow, so soft and fluffy, I wish she had spent more time dreaming while resting upon you. I now come to you, Mr. Kitchen and your extended family. How she loved being in your realm, most especially the time spent with Mr. Baking-Sheet! I’m quite certain I’ll never again taste the magic that you and she created, called chocolate sheet cake! It’s was the sweetest and best I’ve ever tasted.
Now, I would very much like to address the Cleaning family. You never let her down, no job too small or too big. You were trusted. She collaborated with you on a regular schedule, she even shared you with me at a young age. I have to admit, early in my life I was not a fan! Alas, now that I am now older and can see the errors of my youth, I must admit you taught me more than the family business. You taught me responsibility, trust, appreciate and reliability to name a few. I also know that you have been a close friend of the family for many generations, and hopefully to many more.
Mr. Television, you did not know her as she was before you came into this house but your uncle, Mr. Tee Vee did know her. He didn’t get to spend a lot of time with her but when they did it was lovely. She liked him very much but life kept her busy and little time was left to just sit with him.
We all agree, she is missed so terribly but we would never wish her back from her place of rest and peace. We carry her with us wherever we go, she was one of a kind. Smart and sassy, intelligent and intuitive, strong and loving, unselfish and giving. Plus, so much more…
Her legacy lives on and through everything and everyone who knew her.
This is dedicated to my mom, Shirley “Peach” Robinson. 1946-2012, she was a hairdresser by occupation and owned her won business. She is my mom and my biggest fan.
Today while I was visiting my dad he talked about Psalm 139 and it’s powerful verses, I would like to share them with you.
For the director of music. Of David. A psalm.
You have searched me, Lord, and you know me.
You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar.
You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways.
Before a word is on my tongue you, Lord, know it completely.
You hem me in behind and before, and you lay your hand upon me.
Such knowledge is too wonderful for me, too lofty for me to attain.
Where can I go from your Spirit?
Where can I flee from your presence?
If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there.
If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast.
If I say, “Surely the darkness will hide me and the light become night around me,” even the darkness will not be dark to you; the night will shine like the day, for darkness is as light to you.
For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb.
I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.
My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place, when I was woven together in the depths of the earth.
Your eyes saw my unformed body; all the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.
How precious to me are your thoughts, God!
How vast is the sum of them!
Were I to count them, they would outnumber the grains of sand—when I awake, I am still with you.
If only you, God, would slay the wicked!
Away from me, you who are bloodthirsty!
They speak of you with evil intent; your adversaries misuse your name.
Do I not hate those who hate you, Lord, and abhor those who are in rebellion against you?
I have nothing but hatred for them; I count them my enemies.
Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts.
See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.
—Psalm 139NIV
~Charlotte, Seeker of unexpected Comfort, Happiness, Joy and Patience.
What do strong people do when they don’t feel strong? This has been weighing on my mind and body for some time now. I am so blessed to have the support of family and friends in my life. I also have the support of my brother which has brought us closer together and that too is a blessing. One thing I know for absolute certainty is I am never alone on my life’s journey, God is ever-present.
I am reminded today of the passage in Matthew when Jesus went to pray and he ask his disciples to sit and pray while He, himself went off alone to pray to the Father.
Gethsemane
Then Jesus went with his disciples to a place called Gethsemane, and he said to them, “Sit here while I go over there and pray.” He took Peter and the two sons of Zebedee along with him, and he began to be sorrowful and troubled. Then he said to them, “My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death. Stay here and keep watch with me.” Going a little farther, he fell with his face to the ground and prayed, “My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will.” Then he returned to his disciples and found them sleeping. “Couldn’t you men keep watch with me for one hour?” he asked Peter. “Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.” He went away a second time and prayed, “My Father, if it is not possible for this cup to be taken away unless I drink it, may your will be done.” When he came back, he again found them sleeping, because their eyes were heavy. So he left them and went away once more and prayed the third time, saying the same thing. Then he returned to the disciples and said to them, “Are you still sleeping and resting? Look, the hour has come, and the Son of Man is delivered into the hands of sinners. Rise! Let us go! Here comes my betrayer!”
—Matthew 26:36-46 (NIV)
Please understand I am in no way making comparisons to Jesus, No Not At All! I am more like James, John and Peter. My spirit is willing but my flesh is indeed weak. There are days I want to just stay in bed and cover my head and sleep. It’s the “run-away” feeling and nowhere to hide! I am scared of the decisions that must be made, overwhelmed at the tasks that need attention and feelings of guilt that it’s not enough. “This is not the way!”
Staying in bed and doing nothing is never the right choice. Praying and asking for guidance and asking others to pray as well…THIS IS THE WAY!
I am a “doer” and a “fixer,” however, I must confess, I struggle to be patient and quiet. I am trying really hard to learn that there are times when one must be embrace patience and see one’s limitations. I am practicing the art of leaning on others to help me. God will provide a way through any obstacles you and I may encounter. God is a loving God, He desires to be an active part of our lives.
Photo Credit: Brandi McDaniel (2023)
But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently.
In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans.
And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for God’s people in accordance with the will of God.
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.
—Romans 8:25-28 (NIV)
Letter to My Heavenly Father
Lord, fill me with your spirit Fill me to overflowing Help me spread your love Through my actions Through my speech Through my prayers
I am nothing without you Teach me your ways O Lord Keep me within your loving embrace Give me a humble heart Give me gentleness of words Cover me with your abiding grace
I am a seeker O Lord I thirst for new knowledge I am your willing servant Guide me to your Truth Chase after me when I go astray I am your child and I often wander way
Without you I am an empty vessel Without you I fill myself with selfish desires Without you I am a stranger with no home Without you I am poor sinful creature Without you I would not be, for you are my Creator
You alone are my Rock You alone are my Redeemer You alone are my Refuge You alone are my shelter You alone are my everything My Father, my Brother and my Spirit
Your word tells me that I can do all things through you, help me to be ever present of your will, give me strength of perseverance until the day of your return or until you call me home. Your loving daughter.
The words of the Teacher, son of David, king in Jerusalem:
“Meaningless! Meaningless!”says the Teacher. “Utterly meaningless! Everything is meaningless.”
What do people gain from all their labors at which they toil under the sun?
Generations come and generations go, but the earth remains forever.
The sun rises and the sun sets, and hurries back to where it rises.
The wind blows to the south and turns to the north; round and round it goes, ever returning on its course.
All streams flow into the sea, yet the sea is never full. To the place the streams come from, there they return again.
All things are wearisome, more than one can say. The eye never has enough of seeing, nor the ear its fill of hearing.
What has been will be again, what has been done will be done again; there is nothing new under the sun.
Is there anything of which one can say,“Look! This is something new”? It was here already, long ago; it was here before our time.
No one remembers the former generations, and even those yet to come will not be remembered by those who follow them.
—Ecclesiastes 1:1-11 (NIV)
Yesterday, I spent time with my dad and my brother talking about the care my dad needs and deserves. Many of our friends and family are aware of our situation and have provided emotional and physical support. My brother and I know we are very blessed. Seeing our dad age is beautiful and difficult; providing care and support to a parent is a privilege. The difficult part is wanting to do any and everything to provide the very best possible care for them; however, also knowing that there will be financial limitations.
I want to provide for my dad the way he and mom provided for me and my brother as we were growing up. Both of our parents, like most parents, worked very hard to give us all we needed and some of what we wanted.
Our family is not perfect by any means; we had and continue to have lots of love and laughter. As a kid, I did not appreciate all the sacrifices my family made to provide a happy, healthy and stable home-life for me and my brother. We grew up and lived in the same small town and mostly on the same piece of land. In fact I’m sitting in my dads house right now, it’s not the one I grew up in, as they built a new home on the same property a few decades ago. I’ve lived in only two separate homes growing up and they are literally only a few blocks apart. The original house is torn down now, but when I drive by the empty lot, I remember. My brother was only two when we moved from one house to another, so he doesn’t really remember our first house. The town I grew up in had an approximate population of 125 people. My hometown is Yeddo, IN. It was founded sometime in the mid to late 1800’s: records show that it had a post office in operation from 1881-1964.
The Rand McNally Atlas shows that Yeddo had a population of 202 people in 1895 with a post office and railroad service.
As I sit here in my parents home, memories flash through my mind. I am reminiscing of the holiday’s spent together; sharing meals with grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, second cousins and friends. I miss the sounds of laughter in the retelling of old stories. The competitive spirits of playing games at the dining room table. Remembering lazy Saturday nights or Sunday afternoons watching movies on a rented VCR and VHS tape from the local video store, (long before blockbuster’s). I’m that old! 😉 The house is filled with things, the most priceless of all is the memories. The material things are nice but it’s not the particular item that is precious, it’s the visual and sensory response it ignites inside of me.
How does one sum up their life, it is not the physical possessions, it’s the memories that were created with them. The older I get, the more I realize it’s the connections, passions and experiences that bring me happiness, not a collection of things that merely take up space. *I do have things, more than I need or deserve and I know that they could be gone tomorrow and I would be okay because of my memories. I have a substantial collection of Flintstones memorabilia and I used to have it displayed in a room all to itself. I moved over a year ago and it’s all still in boxes. I don’t love it any less but I don’t need it on display because what makes it special to me is how it came to be in my possession. Over a period of about 15 years, I scoured through antique shops, festivals and yard sales in search of anything Flintstones with family, friends and lovers, it was the people with me that matters. Some items I have were gifts, and the true gift is the person who gifted the item to me.
A Time for Everything
There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens:
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 from embracing,
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.
What do workers gain from their toil?
I have seen the burden God has laid on the human race.
He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart; yet no one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end.
I know that there is nothing better for people than to be happy and to do good while they live.
That each of them may eat and drink, and find satisfaction in all their toil—this is the gift of God.
I know that everything God does will endure forever; nothing can be added to it and nothing taken from it. God does it so that people will fear him.
Whatever is has already been, and what will be has been before; God will call the past to account.
—Ecclesiastes 3:1-15 (NIV)
Lastly, I would like to share two devotionals with you that I read yesterday and formed the foundation for this post.
So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness. —Colossians 2:6-7 (NIV)
The Christian life is never stagnant. Once we accept Jesus we must continue to be vigilant in the choice to follow after Him. As we grow in our understanding of who He is, the Bible, and grow strong ties to other Believers then deep roots of faith grow in our lives. When we are rooted in our faith we are able to stand strong when we go through the storms of this life.
The Power of the Weak: (Storms)
He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. —Isaiah 40:29 (NIV)
Do you recall a situation where the harder you tried to mend something, the worse it became? Sometimes it’s a relationship where you try to say and do the right things only to make the other person upset. No matter what the situation, remember that God is in control, not you. When you’re feeling powerless, God will empower you. The next time you’re in a situation like this, say a prayer to reveal your weakness and acknowledge that God is in control.
As I end my day, I pray for strength and guidance not just for myself; you are also in my my prayers. We are all on separate journeys and yet, we are all traveling together. My hopes, fears and struggles are no more or less important than yours, we have more in common than we realize. Our help comes from the Lord! In a world filled with darkness, shine the light of God wherever you go. —May the peace of God shine upon you today and always.
~Charlotte, Seeker of unexpected Comfort, Happiness, Joy and Patience. 🌸🌹🌺🌷💐
“A term of endearment for something sweet or lovely; a child or an intimate partner.”
The sweet pea is a beautiful flower and an expression of fondness. I have someone in my life that used to call me “sweet pea,” I say used to because I haven’t been called that since the last time we were face to face. It’s been eight years since I was referred to as “sweet pea.” So, why in the world would it show up in my dreams?
😴 💤 💭 🛌 😴 💤 💭 🛌 😴
I had the dream last night and it’s been on my mind all day long. The dream starts out simple enough, meeting an old friend. Spending time talking and catching up on life events. I have no idea how long the dream was in real time but in dreamland it covered two days. I experienced several emotions starting at…recognition of someone I knew; moving onto someone I trusted; then someone I missed; leading to reconnection; then friendship moving into a close physical encounter. Finally, POOF, the dream was over as my alarm clock woke me up. I’ve been trying to understand the dream throughout my day, in the end it was just a dream and far from reality. Perhaps just an overly active imagination. There was truth in the dream, the person is real, someone I call a friend and that I wholeheartedly trust with my deepest thoughts.
After contemplation, I came up with a list possibly reasons for the dream.
I have been under a lot of stress
I miss hanging out with friends
I sometimes feel lonely but like being alone
I miss physical contact (hugs/kisses)
I am too independent
I am scared that I will always be alone
I am protective of myself
I miss feeling love
Now, let me stop 🛑 right here…to all my friends please not worry, I will always welcome your prayers and good vibes but let me reassure you…I AM FINE! Life is tough for all of us for one reason or another. I love you, my friends, I wish I had more time to see you, more time to visit with you; and mostly time to just be with you. Being present with others is so rare and so healing. 💙
I have a trip planned for October of this year and so looking forward to seeing friends I only get to see about once a year. Get ready for hugs & kisses & laughter (Margaret, Greg, Alicia and Nancy). Fingers crossed 🤞🏻 life doesn’t get in the way. 🩷🦩🩷🦩🩷🦩🩷
I am a strong, independent God loving woman who knows that I am loved by my Creator, created with a purpose and have an eternal home in Heaven with Jesus my Savior and Redeemer. God did not promise to give us easy lives, He did promise to always be with us. I know that I am never truly alone, it’s just a human emotion that tries to take advantage of human weakness manipulated by the power of darkness (satan, the devil or whatever you might call the fallen angel Lucifer) as he preys on God’s children.
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
—Jeremiah 29:11
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
—John 16:33 (NIV
“Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me. My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.”
—John 14:1-3
“And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
…dreaming helps you consolidate and analyze memories (like skills and habits) and likely serves as a “rehearsal” for various situations and challenges that one faces during the daytime.
~Charlotte, Seeker of unexpected Comfort, Happiness, Joy and Patience.
WooHoo year #2 with PTP. My name is Charlotte and I am so proud to be a part of this organization. I came to know about Pledge the Pink through two of my dearest and oldest friends; one of which is a breast cancer survivor. They both shared their wonderful experience with PTP and what is means to be a part of this cause and to their team, Team Boo Bees. I am grateful and blessed to be part of Team Boo Bees. I have been more fortunate than most, I make sure to get my annual mammogram and follow-up on any abnormalities. I have had three biopsies and all were benign, but scary nonetheless. This cause is important to me because cancer is scary and life taking, my wish is no one ever has to go through a diagnosis of cancer. Cancer does not discriminate and I believe no one should ever be alone in fighting it. I believe in this organization and I hope to one day be even more involved. My hope is to raise money to assist women in need of medical services and support. I am grateful for any amount you might be able to give, no amount is too small and your prayers are always welcomed. Thank you for leaning into whatever your heart is guiding you to do.
This year is even more important to me because someone very close to me, as close to me as my mother; just a week ago was told she has cancer. Thankfully, she is diagnosed with DCIS which is also called intraductal carcinoma or stage 0 breast cancer. This magnifies the importance of yearly mammograms and quickly diagnosing this disease. She is schedule for an appointment next week and mostly likely a lumpectomy within a week or two. I was able to attend her follow up appointment with an oncologist, he was kind and reassuring yet was so insightful that even with stage 0; it is still cancer and it’s scary. I’m walking for this special person this year, and for so many more. 🩷
My Story • 2022
I can’t say enough good things about this organization. My experience last year was beyond any expectations I dreams of. So many participants and volunteers. Being surrounded by another 1499 individuals who are passionate about breast cancer awareness and raising money for mammograms was extraordinary. I met so many wonderful individuals all with their own stories to tell and why PTP is so important to them.
I was so excited to get to Fripp Island, SC that I drove straight throw and arrived at 4am but could not get onto the island to the house until 3:30 in the afternoon. I took advantage and drove around looking at the sights. Stopped for coffee in the Low Country and visited a park. It was all so beautiful.
My first year walking did not turn out as well as I would have liked but I did give it my all. I was able to complete day 1/10 miles. Day 2, I was only able to complete 5 miles due to extremely sore feet, actually I had severe blisters on both feet. I wore the same shoes I trained with but I probably wasn’t as prepared as I could have been. I was able to volunteer my last day, I missed the walking with my friends and teammates but volunteering with the Boo Bee Supporter was a lot of fun too! We passed out drinks and protein bars to walkers and runners.
My team is Team Boo Bees, our mascot is bees and boo (ghosts) or boobs!
This is Team Boo Bees
I set a fundraising goal of $2000, I have raised $100 and I’m so grateful to the individuals who donated to this great cause. I realize times are tough for everyone given the financial constraints of our time, please pray about giving and follow your conscience. I totally understand if you cannot contribute financially, please consider praying for the event and all the participants.
“Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.”
— Matthew 7:13-14
Hello Friends ~
I hope this post finds you well! I am currently listening to an audible book by Philip Graham Ryken called, “King Solomon: The Temptations of Money, Sex and Power.” One of the topics discussed was choices, which that leads to decisions and onto specific outcomes/consequences. The writer’s prelude, my assumption is he’s a golf fan, starts out telling of the choices and consequences of Tiger Woods. Admittedly, I like Tiger, his abilities have astonished many in the sport of golf. In reality, he’s a human being, just like all the rest of us. We are all created by God and whether in life or in the afterlife will one day, bow down and declare God is God!
“So that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” Philippians 2:10-11 (ESV)
King Solomon
When Solomon rose to the throne, he sought after God, and God gave him an opportunity to request for whatever he desired. Solomon humbly recognized his inability to rule well and nobly asked God for the wisdom he would need to govern God’s people righteously. God gave him wisdom and also wealth (1 Kings 3:4-15). In fact, “King Solomon was greater in riches and wisdom than all the other kings of the earth” (1 Kings 10:23). God also gave Solomon peace on all fronts during most of his reign (1 Kings 4:20-25).
— christianity.com (*see reference below)
King Solomon’s “CHOICES”
His “Choices” Led to His Demise
Solomon’s decline did not happen all at once. It was a slow process of his heart turning away from undivided loyalty to the God of the Covenant. In, 1 Kings Chapter 11, the fatal flaw for Solomon will be magnified. His demise will lead to the dividing of the kingdom. (*see references below for more information)
God’s Royal Commands for Kings
“When you enter the land the Lord your God is giving you and have taken possession of it and settled in it, and you say, “Let us set a king over us like all the nations around us,”
•be sure to appoint over you a king the Lord your God chooses.
•He must be from among your fellow Israelites.
•Do not place a foreigner over you, one who is not an Israelite.
•The king, moreover, must not acquire great numbers of horses for himself or make the people return to Egypt to get more of them, for the Lord has told you, “You are not to go back that way again.”
•He must not take many wives, or his heart will be led astray.
•He must not accumulate large amounts of silver and gold.
•When he takes the throne of his kingdom, he is to write for himself on a scroll a copy of this law, taken from that of the Levitical priests. It is to be with him, and he is to read it all the days of his life so that he may learn to revere the Lord his God and follow carefully all the words of this law and these decrees and not consider himself better than his fellow Israelites and turn from the law to the right or to the left.
“Then he and his descendants will reign a long time over his kingdom in Israel.”
— Deuteronomy 17:14-20
I would dare say that most of you familiar with the story of Solomon; however, I experienced or at least had the realization that King Solomon, like Tiger Woods are no different from anyone else, that is a child of God. I might call it divine intervention to clear thinking. I realized in real time that each day upon waking we all have a choice, actually the day itself will provide multiple opportunities for choices. The most important is who will I serve today, God or myself (?). Everyday is a gift from God. All that I (we) have is a gift from God. It’s not that I don’t know these things, it’s that life is filled with so much noise of chaos and hectic circumstances; all of which are frustrating and sometimes even frightening. Truth is God is readily available to each of us anytime and anywhere. God delights in us.
“The Lord your God is in your midst, a mighty one who will save; he will rejoice over you with gladness; he will quiet you by his love; he will exult over you with loud singing.”
Speaking from experience, spending time with God can strengthen one’s resolve to live a life with purpose and clarity for God. Also, from experience, it is easy to be drawn away from the one thing that feeds your soul. How can this be, you might ask? The distractions of life even in the tiniest of measure, once it diverts our hearts can be a slippery slope towards destruction. Recently, I’ve enhanced my devotional time by using varied websites to experience God in new and different ways. Prayer has always been a part of my daily life but I have also been more intentional with my conversations (prayers) with God. Being connected with God can occur in so many different ways: verbal, thoughts, actions and listening/being silent. I have been absent from Church functions for quite sometime, some of my reasons are valid based upon my work schedule others I’m still sorting out. I miss my friends, my church family but my love for them has not changed during my absence. I am by no means saying that everyone needs to attend formal church services to have a relationship with God, it is entirely a personal choice. Attending church for many can be for the benefits of community and social support and learning/growing of God’s love.
What comes to mind is…Just Be Kind…to everyone because we can never know what is happening in their life. I see signs and t-shirts that promote this but how many of us actually do it. There’s too much hate and hostility in the world. We can all learn lessons from Solomon and Tiger, and so many others. Every person is fighting some kind of battle, some may be visible but most are not, please, JUST BE KIND.
“Indeed the safest road to Hell is the gradual one–the gentle slope, soft underfoot, without sudden turnings, without milestones, without signposts,…Your affectionate uncle, Screwtape.”
To those near to me and far from me, I love and miss you; I appreciate you and I pray for you. The fact that we met is nothing less than a miracle of the divine creator of all things.
I am currently reading a book that is interesting, insightful and a bit frightening. It’s not a horror book, it is a compilation of writings and essays written by C. S. Lewis between 1940 and 1963, a year before I was born, side note today is my birthday! I’ve become somewhat of a fan of Mr. Lewis’ writings over the years. The book I’m reading, called “ God in the Dock” has been on my book shelf for a number of years. I’ve always felt I wasn’t quite ready to read it or understand it. Truth is most of us put things off because of one reason or another, none of which are very valid.
I can’t wear that, I will when I lose weight
I can’t do that, I’m not talented enough
I’m too old for that
I’m not pretty enough
Get the idea! We all have excuses. I’ve got more than I dare to list.
I’m about half way through the book, actually listening through audible. The writings and essays cover a wide range of topics; to name a few: the logic of theism, good and evil, miracles, the role of women in the church, and ethics and politics.
I’ve already learned a few new ways of looking at life.
We, that is to say each of us should not strive to be better than everyone else; BUT, be the best that we were created to be. Be the person God intended us to be. This along with encouraging others to do the same. Competition should be within oneself and not with others. In this spirit of living, the issue of jealous, envy or grudges have no foundation to grow. There’s nothing wrong with winning, as there’s nothing wrong with losing as long as everyone does their best in the performance. I played competitive sports for several years, I experienced both the highs and lows of competition. And, the reality is even if I did my very best sometimes I lost, not because I failed but my opponent was better. I see failure in a much different light than when I was younger. No blame on any one person, society and media place value and success on numbers (ratings, points, etc.). Failure just means an experience that requires some modifications and application changes.
Chapter 10 “Christian Apologetics” I found this chapter of particular interest because Lewis is speaking to a group of Priests and Youth organizations. Of course I needed to understand “apologetics” I will share it now. Apologetics is quite literally defense of the faith; the Greek word apologia means “defense” as a lawyer gives at a trial. In every generation, people face the challenges, questions, and concerns of the gospel message of the Christian faith. The difference between apologetics and theology is Apologetics discusses and defends the faith against those who don’t understand or agree with it. Theology attempts to gain a deeper understanding of the faith. The point that Lewis makes is that when teaching, preaching and sharing of the Bible one should know their audience. I like this because for many of us laypeople, need our knowledge base expanded because we have not attended seminary or advanced biblical teachings or even understand the different languages as in the original texts using Hebrew, Arabic, Greek or Latin. These are all part of the Christian history even if we don’t read, write or speak it, when reference to it, it literally hold no meaning. The Bible has such a rich cultural context and holds such importance for Christianity’s foundation, we laypeople may never deep dive into it but we should be given the options to explore and hear the history of words and phrases used outside of our individual language.
Good and evil, do they exist. Short answer, yes. Did God create evil, No. let me just say, I’m not a theologian…just sharing my thoughts. God created everything, including our ability to think (free will) and make decisions, (even bad ones). The Angelic being called Lucifer, created by God sinned and was cast out of Heaven. If you are interested in a a satire reading about Lucifer, that is now called Satan check out “The Screwtape Letters.” The Biblical account of Lucifer’s story it can be read here: Ezekiel 28 and Isaiah 14. https://www.christianity.com/wiki/angels-and-demons/how-did-lucifer-fall-and-become-satan-11557519.html?amp=1
Then, in chapter 14 “‘Miserable Offenders’ An Interpretation Of Prayer Book Language” I found the prayers to be inspiring and truthful. I will share the below.
For many, this particular book “God in the Dock” I would not recommend as a starter book into C.S.Lewis’ work, I would suggest the following for starters:
The Chronicles of Narnia
The Screwtape Letters
The Cosmic Trilogy
Till We Have Faces
A Grief Observed
Lastly, today I would like to extend my gratitude and appreciation to each person that is a part of this blog, thus is a part of my life. I joined WordPress at the recommendation from a very dear friend, and I thoroughly enjoy the community that has welcomed me. I missed sharing my anniversary date with everyone, it’s a few days late but the anniversary is not mine alone to celebrate, I share it all of YOU!
July 21, 2013
“Do not let your happiness depend on something you may lose.” — C.S. Lewis, The Four Loves
“There are a dozen views about everything until you know the answer. Then there’s never more than one.”― C.S. Lewis, That Hideous Strength
“If I find in myself a desire which no experience in this world can satisfy, the most probable explanation is that I was made for another world.”—C.S. Lewis, Mere Christianity
~ Charlotte, Seeker of unexpected Comfort, Happiness, Joy and Patience.
A few days ago, I was am sitting in a hospital room with my dad, he had been admitted due to health concerns with his breathing. He suffers with COPD and emphysema. I found myself sitting in the dark with only the glow of medical machine lights glowing green and red. In the room , a soothing noise could be heard, the bubbling of water that was providing him with moisture with his oxygen intake. Admittedly, it is very relaxing and I’m thankful that dad is resting comfortably.
It’s always interesting to me the seemingly random thoughts that surface when I allow myself to “be still.” Or, it could be sleep deprivation catching up on me (!), as I’ve been awake for nearly 20 hours. Either way, it doesn’t really matter because remembering my favorite things is like good medicine.
When I was a kid every Memorial weekend we would plan activities around listening to the Indy 500 race in our front yard. Dad would always have this AM/FM radio on and we would tune it into the race. Some of the activities we engaged in were washing and waxing the car; having parked in in the yard under a huge tree for shade. We had a metal and plastic swimming pool and the grill would be cooking burgers and hot dogs. And, my mom made the best homemade macaroni salad and potato salad, dessert would be her favorite chocolate sheet cake. This is one of my favorite things!
🇺🇸 ⭐️ 🌭 ❤️ 📻 💙 🍔 ⭐️ 🇺🇸
I learned to drive at a very young age, dad would let my brother and me sit on his lap when we were young and steer the car/truck. When we were tall enough to reach the pedals and steering wheel at the same time, mom & dad, both would let us drive on gravel country roads. I learned to drive a Ford truck with 3 gears on the column as well as 4 on the floor. Those were fun times! This is one of my favorite things!
One of my not so favorite things growing was Saturday house cleaning. But, good things come to those who wait (and work). After all the chores were completed, my mom and I would take baths and put on clean clothes and go grocery shopping. Yep, that was a treat! We would often take the car through the car wash and mom would buy Persian donuts and we would share them on the ride home. This is one of my favorite things! Also, as I think back on look Saturday’s I am forever grateful for them. Those days taught me many valuable lessons that have helped me in and through adulthood. This is one of my favorite things!
I was fortunate that my parents introduced me to team sports early in life. I began playing on a girls softball team when I was just 5 years old. I have so many fond memories of playing, winning and losing games, and all the wonderful girls/women I met along the way. I played the game I loved for over three decades. My biggest fan through it all was my mom. My dad also when work and time allowed. My mom drove me all over the state of Indiana during my teen years. She would drive over 4 hours to watch me play when I was in college, to say I was loved & blessed is an understatement. This is one of my favorite things!
My favorite family vacation growing up was the summer I turned 13. We, (my parents, my younger brother and me) traveled for two weeks and we camped every night at KOA campgrounds. Our trip took us through Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Nebraska and South Dakota. The highlight of the trip was seeing Mt. Rushmore. We cooked all our meals and slept either in a tent or in our van. My parents let us stop at most of the souvenir shops we ask to see. The saddest day of our trip was the last day, we stopped by a store about an hour from home and we hear the announcement on a speaker that Elvis Presley had passed away. I guess I will always remember when and where I was on that day. The trip…This is one of my favorite things!
Truth is, these are just a few of my favorite things; it would be impossible to list them all. I am thankful to have been raised by loving, caring and responsible parents. Growing up we had what we needed and at times things we wanted. I am grateful my parents loved me enough to discipline me when I needed it and praised me when I deserved it. We may not have had lots of money but in my eyes we were the richest people I knew. This is my favorite thing.
“Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. “Honor your father and mother”—this is the first commandment with a promise: “so that it may be well with you and you may live long on the earth.” And, fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.”
~ Ephesians 6:1-4
“Start children off on the way they should go,and even when they are old they will not turn from it.”
—Proverbs 22:6
“Hear your father’s teaching, my son, and do not turn away from your mother’s teaching. For they are a glory to your head and a chain of beauty around your neck.”
~ Proverbs 1:8-9
~ Charlotte, Seeker of unexpected Comfort, Happiness, Joy and Patience.
DISCOVER 
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