July 12 is PF Day, otherwise known as Patent File Day. This is the day my son Chris and I file utility (non-provisional) and design patents for a new mobility walker. After more than two years of honing our design, numerous prototypes, financial investment and loss of sleep, we are taking the final plunge following a patent pending application made a year ago on July 12, 2016.
This is truly one of those times where we have to say, "it's in God's hands now." In fact, there were many anxious moments when I had to talk to myself with encouragement. It always came back to Romans 8:28, "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."
The aforementioned comforting verse clearly means trust in the Lord, but in actuality, trusting God wasn't the hardest part. It was trying to decide if this project was my will or God's, even though I'm sure it was devinely inspired. Nevertheless, you can bet a few prayers went in that direction!
So now I say it's in God's hands. If it is a success, I'll definitely know it was more than just my desire to bring a new and truly innovative product to market − one which could help many people. It might also make me a better philanthropist, but that's a selfish wish on my part because sharing our blessings with others is truly one of our greatest gifts.
So now we wait to see what God has planned as I approach medical manufactures and distributors. In any case, I don't need to stress over the outcome because I am more than grateful to know it is in His hands, and He is the one in charge.
Tuesday, July 11, 2017
Monday, June 26, 2017
Still Relevant
Our Pastor gave another very provocative sermon Sunday about a subject that I once thought irrelevant to me or to most other Christians in the U.S. The sermon was in reference to Jesus telling the disciples people will "hate you because of me."
Persecution of Christians only happens now in certain countries or areas with no tolerance to our religion, right? But the Pastor explained this a little differently, and one to which I could now relate. It references how we see things, what we do, and how we act. And sometimes, that does get us into trouble. It doesn't mean consequences of martyrdom by any means, but there can still be a negative response.
Pastor Brian's point was simply that, unfavorable responses aside, we should still do what is right regardless of how others see us or disagree. And, yes, I have to admit there are times when that's gotten me those unfavorable responses from others. I suspect that can be said for many of us.
Even other Christians disagree about how we should act and what we should believe. Just look at the derision during and after the last presidential campaign. Everything centers on understanding what it means to follow Jesus, and it's a little spooky and unsettling to me to see how that differs among members of our own religion. In the end, I think that Jesus' commandment to love one another surpasses all else.
As my personal faith deepens, I do things differently than I once did, and I see priorities differently too. It's not so much about me anymore, what I want, or personal preference in relating to others. I see Jesus' commandment as mainly twofold: Trying not to purposely hurt other people (which I may inadvertently do because all humans fail); and focusing on kindness and need. I'm far from perfect in doing any of that, but I'm going to keep trying to do the right thing as Pastor Brian said.
Persecution of Christians only happens now in certain countries or areas with no tolerance to our religion, right? But the Pastor explained this a little differently, and one to which I could now relate. It references how we see things, what we do, and how we act. And sometimes, that does get us into trouble. It doesn't mean consequences of martyrdom by any means, but there can still be a negative response.
Pastor Brian's point was simply that, unfavorable responses aside, we should still do what is right regardless of how others see us or disagree. And, yes, I have to admit there are times when that's gotten me those unfavorable responses from others. I suspect that can be said for many of us.
Even other Christians disagree about how we should act and what we should believe. Just look at the derision during and after the last presidential campaign. Everything centers on understanding what it means to follow Jesus, and it's a little spooky and unsettling to me to see how that differs among members of our own religion. In the end, I think that Jesus' commandment to love one another surpasses all else.
As my personal faith deepens, I do things differently than I once did, and I see priorities differently too. It's not so much about me anymore, what I want, or personal preference in relating to others. I see Jesus' commandment as mainly twofold: Trying not to purposely hurt other people (which I may inadvertently do because all humans fail); and focusing on kindness and need. I'm far from perfect in doing any of that, but I'm going to keep trying to do the right thing as Pastor Brian said.
Thursday, June 1, 2017
Some Losses Are Harder Than Expected
I really thought I could handle the death of non-family members well enough to someday even help with hospice. As a Stephen Minister with my church, I already try to help those who have been left behind. But last week, I was forced to realize something - some of those non-family losses are still very hard to accept.
My wonderfully, sweet neighbor, and owner of the other side of my townhome, passed away. For nearly 10 years, Stan Hamilton was a fixture in my life with his characteristic grin and great sense of humor. He was also the first person I met in our community when I was looking to buy. He graciously allowed a real estate agent, who was showing me another floor plan, to invade his home so that I could see a different layout option.
Long story short, we became friends over the years. He even served as the editor of my first book before I queried publishers, and after that, he was one of the most supportive people of my writing. As an author, former reporter and editor, he was the perfect mentor too. I think he was also the one to suggest I join Kansas Authors Club, an organization that has served me well.
Stan was always the perfect neighbor - quiet and caring. He brought the newspaper from my driveway to my mailbox on the house so that I could easily retrieve it. Although I constantly worried that he might fall using his cane, he told others that it was one of the things that brought joy to him. I could only reciprocate by bringing him an occasional dinner or treat, and then most recently, drag his trash/recycle bins out of his garage for pick-up. I thought I would lose him to assisted living someday, but not entirely.
My two sons, as well as any visitors, became well acquainted with Stan. He could often be seen riding his stationary bike with his garage door open, something he always tried to do, even in his frail condition. There was always a friendly hello to anyone nearby, and I usually made a point to stop by his door to let him see my grand-dog when Danny visited overnight.
It was a always a pleasure, too, to see Stan's family over the years. I know my tears pale in comparison to theirs, but what a legacy this kind and gentle spirit left! I will never pull into my garage without thinking of Stan next door and wishing he were still with us.
I saw Stan just a day or two before his stroke. I was getting into my car, racing to a meeting, and he was going to the group mailboxes across the street. We spoke just briefly about what we were doing, contrary to our normal routine to stop and chat, but we were both on a mission that day. I had no idea it would be the last time we would talk.
When I visited Stan in the hospital (after his stroke, subsequent heart attack with discovery of 70% blockage, bleeding ulcer, and pneumonia), he was heavily sedated. I hope he knew that I was there and heard me say, "God is going to have a lot of fun with Stan." And I truly believe that is what's happening now.
My wonderfully, sweet neighbor, and owner of the other side of my townhome, passed away. For nearly 10 years, Stan Hamilton was a fixture in my life with his characteristic grin and great sense of humor. He was also the first person I met in our community when I was looking to buy. He graciously allowed a real estate agent, who was showing me another floor plan, to invade his home so that I could see a different layout option.
Long story short, we became friends over the years. He even served as the editor of my first book before I queried publishers, and after that, he was one of the most supportive people of my writing. As an author, former reporter and editor, he was the perfect mentor too. I think he was also the one to suggest I join Kansas Authors Club, an organization that has served me well.
Stan was always the perfect neighbor - quiet and caring. He brought the newspaper from my driveway to my mailbox on the house so that I could easily retrieve it. Although I constantly worried that he might fall using his cane, he told others that it was one of the things that brought joy to him. I could only reciprocate by bringing him an occasional dinner or treat, and then most recently, drag his trash/recycle bins out of his garage for pick-up. I thought I would lose him to assisted living someday, but not entirely.
My two sons, as well as any visitors, became well acquainted with Stan. He could often be seen riding his stationary bike with his garage door open, something he always tried to do, even in his frail condition. There was always a friendly hello to anyone nearby, and I usually made a point to stop by his door to let him see my grand-dog when Danny visited overnight.
It was a always a pleasure, too, to see Stan's family over the years. I know my tears pale in comparison to theirs, but what a legacy this kind and gentle spirit left! I will never pull into my garage without thinking of Stan next door and wishing he were still with us.
I saw Stan just a day or two before his stroke. I was getting into my car, racing to a meeting, and he was going to the group mailboxes across the street. We spoke just briefly about what we were doing, contrary to our normal routine to stop and chat, but we were both on a mission that day. I had no idea it would be the last time we would talk.
When I visited Stan in the hospital (after his stroke, subsequent heart attack with discovery of 70% blockage, bleeding ulcer, and pneumonia), he was heavily sedated. I hope he knew that I was there and heard me say, "God is going to have a lot of fun with Stan." And I truly believe that is what's happening now.
Monday, May 1, 2017
My Comfort Zone
Recently, Chicken Soup for the Soul solicited its previous contributors to submit a story for one of the series forthcoming anthologies tentatively titled Stepping Out of Your Comfort Zone. I didn't think much about it because I couldn't quite recall any important experience of that nature. So much for my willingness and desire for change!
But then something hit the idea center of my brain -- I could write about the promotion I received decades ago when I moved to the corporate office of the company for which I worked.
I really wanted that promotion, and it had been my dream for years to move up the corporate career ladder. And now, it was finally presented to me. I would be responsible for placing our after school programs in public elementary schools, something some of our competitors were already doing. The only drawback was working directly for the vice president of the company.
Being a corporate director was a highly visible and responsible position. If I failed, everyone in the would know it, and not only would I lose my job, but also my career. Conversely, if I succeeded, everyone would know that too. In the end, ambition won out over fear.
To make a long story short, that program didn't prove very successful for the company or for me, but another opportunity took its place. This time, it was the perfect fit and became an actual department which I led for almost 11years. So from all of this I realized: Stepping out of one's comfort zone might result in failure, but that failure might also turn into something better.
And then it occurred to me this was much like stepping out of my comfort zone to talk about my faith. I dare say that it is a difficult task for most all of us. No one wants others to be self conscious around us, or to think we're some kind of zealot to be avoided. But then came another realization -- it gradually becomes easier, just like performing the duties of a new job. "Practice makes perfect" applies just as well when "witnessing" to one's faith.
In talking or writing about my beliefs, I have many reasons for not wanting people to see me as an example. (Now that really does make me feel uncomfortable!) No one should follow what I do; they should follow the one whom I try to follow -- Jesus. My life is simply happier because of that, and that is what people should see.
You'll never hear me confront others and ask them "are you saved?" You'll never hear me push my faith on others, but I won't let my comfort zone prevent me from talking about it when given the right moment. Those moments are not made by me, they're made by God so, in this circumstance, I'm especially glad to have escaped my comfort zone.
But then something hit the idea center of my brain -- I could write about the promotion I received decades ago when I moved to the corporate office of the company for which I worked.
I really wanted that promotion, and it had been my dream for years to move up the corporate career ladder. And now, it was finally presented to me. I would be responsible for placing our after school programs in public elementary schools, something some of our competitors were already doing. The only drawback was working directly for the vice president of the company.
Being a corporate director was a highly visible and responsible position. If I failed, everyone in the would know it, and not only would I lose my job, but also my career. Conversely, if I succeeded, everyone would know that too. In the end, ambition won out over fear.
To make a long story short, that program didn't prove very successful for the company or for me, but another opportunity took its place. This time, it was the perfect fit and became an actual department which I led for almost 11years. So from all of this I realized: Stepping out of one's comfort zone might result in failure, but that failure might also turn into something better.
And then it occurred to me this was much like stepping out of my comfort zone to talk about my faith. I dare say that it is a difficult task for most all of us. No one wants others to be self conscious around us, or to think we're some kind of zealot to be avoided. But then came another realization -- it gradually becomes easier, just like performing the duties of a new job. "Practice makes perfect" applies just as well when "witnessing" to one's faith.
In talking or writing about my beliefs, I have many reasons for not wanting people to see me as an example. (Now that really does make me feel uncomfortable!) No one should follow what I do; they should follow the one whom I try to follow -- Jesus. My life is simply happier because of that, and that is what people should see.
You'll never hear me confront others and ask them "are you saved?" You'll never hear me push my faith on others, but I won't let my comfort zone prevent me from talking about it when given the right moment. Those moments are not made by me, they're made by God so, in this circumstance, I'm especially glad to have escaped my comfort zone.
Saturday, April 22, 2017
The Perfect Double Gift
My 4th story for Chicken Soup for the Soul appeared in their most recent anthology, Random Acts of Kindness that was released in February. I love their books as does my entire family, especially when one of my stories appear. So, it was no surprise when one of my nieces-in-law, Linda, requested the latest book for her birthday.
Because Linda and my other niece-in-law Val have March birthdays, my sister always hosts a family party to celebrate their birthdays along with one of my nephews. It's a great, big, extended family celebration, but it's sometimes difficult to come up with something interesting and different as a gift.
I remembered that Val had also asked about the book earlier, so it was an easy decision to give them both a book as a present. I decided also to give them each microlights which seem to currently be a big trend in decorating. And then another idea occurred: Add a simple $5 Walmart gift card that they could use to perform their own random act of kindness!
What happened then is very special. Val knew immediately that she would give the card to one of the needy individuals who is often seen standing at a highway off-ramp, something she often does. It didn't take long for her to discover someone who would appreciate the card.
But, the most remarkable story came from Linda. She was shopping at Walmart and heard an elderly lady in the next aisle talking to a clerk. "Don't you have something a little cheaper?" she asked. "I don't have the extra $4 to spend." When the clerk said no, Linda popped around the corner to give the woman the $5 gift card.
Are you sensing the same divine intervention that I did? The woman was short $4 so the $5 gift card covered the deficit and the taxes. Now that's what I would call somewhat of a miracle! It not only won the gratitude of the recipient, but made Linda feel so good inside too. That's a double gift, and now Linda wants to carry more gift cards to give out for just such occurrences. She learned what Val already knew about random acts of kindness.
Who would believe that something so simple as a $5 gift card could bring such happiness to the givers and the recipients. God, through Jesus, certainly knew what He was doing when He commanded us to love and care for one another. Now that's what I call a truly double gift!
Because Linda and my other niece-in-law Val have March birthdays, my sister always hosts a family party to celebrate their birthdays along with one of my nephews. It's a great, big, extended family celebration, but it's sometimes difficult to come up with something interesting and different as a gift.
I remembered that Val had also asked about the book earlier, so it was an easy decision to give them both a book as a present. I decided also to give them each microlights which seem to currently be a big trend in decorating. And then another idea occurred: Add a simple $5 Walmart gift card that they could use to perform their own random act of kindness!
What happened then is very special. Val knew immediately that she would give the card to one of the needy individuals who is often seen standing at a highway off-ramp, something she often does. It didn't take long for her to discover someone who would appreciate the card.
But, the most remarkable story came from Linda. She was shopping at Walmart and heard an elderly lady in the next aisle talking to a clerk. "Don't you have something a little cheaper?" she asked. "I don't have the extra $4 to spend." When the clerk said no, Linda popped around the corner to give the woman the $5 gift card.
Are you sensing the same divine intervention that I did? The woman was short $4 so the $5 gift card covered the deficit and the taxes. Now that's what I would call somewhat of a miracle! It not only won the gratitude of the recipient, but made Linda feel so good inside too. That's a double gift, and now Linda wants to carry more gift cards to give out for just such occurrences. She learned what Val already knew about random acts of kindness.
Who would believe that something so simple as a $5 gift card could bring such happiness to the givers and the recipients. God, through Jesus, certainly knew what He was doing when He commanded us to love and care for one another. Now that's what I call a truly double gift!
Tuesday, April 18, 2017
What Happened to Easter?
Because I wasn't feeling well, I missed Easter services - something I really disliked having to do because I had every intention to attend and I enjoy the wonderful celebration. I would have missed Easter dinner at my sister's, too, except that I was bringing dessert. I'm sure God forgave me for missing church, but you don't want to fail your family by not bringing what is almost as important as the entree.
Granted, Christmas is celebrated secularly and non-secularly, and I believe doing so with Easter isn't really a change from decades ago either. But, while my faith has certainly deepened over the ages to celebrate on a more non-secular level, there are things I truly miss from my childhood.
I remember receiving a new outfit every Easter. Usually it was very dressy and something to show off to my grandmother on Easter Sunday when we traveled to her home an hour and half away. It might even be worn on an occasional visit to church, but much of my early years were spent as a CEO (Christmas and Easter Only, as said by my niece Kym). Still, I knew what the holiday was really about.
In grade school, we had Good Friday off as well as the following Monday. We sang Easter songs and made paper Easter baskets that my teachers filled with chocolate or creme eggs. I remember also the sheer joy of finding and counting how many baskets and nests were left for me to find on Easter morning. I even recall the 3' tall stuffed Easter bunny that my father slipped in my arms when I was 13 and sleeping But what I don't recall is seeing crowded store parking lots like they were on Easter at Home Depot and Menard's as I traveled to my sister's home just outside of town.
It's unfortunate that stores (I'm sure there were many more than the DIYs) couldn't even be closed on Easter, and even more sad that so many people thought they needed to shop. So much for the reverence of Easter! Add that to little TV programming for the holiday, and the fact that some network decision makers obviously don't know the Old Testament from the New Testament because what they do run are shows like "The Ten Commandments" and "Sodom and Gomorrah." I had to wait for "The Robe," and "The Greatest Story Every Told" until the actual day of Easter. Granted, there were a few other good programs like "Killing Jesus, Finding Jesus," and others focusing on Jesus' DNA and the Shroud of Turin.
I think the overall issue here is that it's too easy to forget our Creator. Too many people miss the joy and peace that come with a belief in something far greater than oneself. So, for my part, I'm going to do my best to live my faith, and celebrate what should be celebrated. Example, as Jesus so perfectly demonstrated, is often the best way to affect change. (And, yes, I did make the sugar cookies from scratch in the photo that accompanies this blog entry.)😃
Monday, March 6, 2017
Lent and the Spiritual Journey
I'm ready to admit that I don't know everything, especially when it comes to understanding God. But once in a while, I'm given a little ray of light in the way of wisdom. That occurs mostly with self-reflection which is a focus during the 40 days (not including Sundays) leading up to Easter.
The danger in self-reflection, however, can be to become so consumed with oneself that we lose focus on our creator. In fact, I'm convinced that true happiness only comes when we look beyond ourselves and make the focus on each other and how God wants us to live.
Recently, I read a book called Proof of God which contained a message that I thought was perfect: "church is a hospital for sinners, not a museum for saints." Amen! You don't have to look far to see that people always fall short of perfection, no matter what they believe.
I always try to remember that others may judge God by my actions. That certainly isn't a fair assessment of God or what it is to be a believer because I cannot ever live up to what others want me to be, regardless of how hard I try. But, I'm still obligated to try, and that is something all of us should maybe keep for self-reflection, too. Expectations are greater, but as I often told my subordinates, never stop trying for 100%, even when you know it's not possible, because the moment you strive for less, the less you will accomplish.
So in this time of self-reflection, I'm going to instead focus on how I can do better and follow more of Jesus' teachings. I'm going to look beyond myself, after acknowledging where I need to improve, and try to do what I think we each have a responsibility to do - make this world a little better place.
The danger in self-reflection, however, can be to become so consumed with oneself that we lose focus on our creator. In fact, I'm convinced that true happiness only comes when we look beyond ourselves and make the focus on each other and how God wants us to live.
Recently, I read a book called Proof of God which contained a message that I thought was perfect: "church is a hospital for sinners, not a museum for saints." Amen! You don't have to look far to see that people always fall short of perfection, no matter what they believe.
I always try to remember that others may judge God by my actions. That certainly isn't a fair assessment of God or what it is to be a believer because I cannot ever live up to what others want me to be, regardless of how hard I try. But, I'm still obligated to try, and that is something all of us should maybe keep for self-reflection, too. Expectations are greater, but as I often told my subordinates, never stop trying for 100%, even when you know it's not possible, because the moment you strive for less, the less you will accomplish.
So in this time of self-reflection, I'm going to instead focus on how I can do better and follow more of Jesus' teachings. I'm going to look beyond myself, after acknowledging where I need to improve, and try to do what I think we each have a responsibility to do - make this world a little better place.
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