A study in contrasts

The front page headline in our local paper the other day reminded me why we moved from the city to the country. It read:

Pony, cow killed in drive-by shootings

While I do feel appropriately sorry for the random killing of innocent animals, it is quite a contrast from the type of drive-by shootings we used to hear about when I lived in the city.

So, paying over 2 dollars a gallon for gas and driving sometimes 2 hours to work is looking more and more worth it.

A study in contrasts

The front page headline in our local paper the other day reminded me why we moved from the city to the country. It read:

Pony, cow killed in drive-by shootings

While I do feel appropriately sorry for the random killing of innocent animals, it is quite a contrast from the type of drive-by shootings we used to hear about when I lived in the city.

So, paying over 2 dollars a gallon for gas and driving sometimes 2 hours to work is looking more and more worth it.

National Mutts Day

Tomorrow is National Mutts Day, so let's celebrate the mutts in our lives! My family has a wonderful Mutt named Sweetie. I call her my "Magical Mystery Dog". She's a good bit smaller than a lab or a rottie, but has rottie markings and webbed feet. She really is a Sweetie.

Do you have a wonderful mutt in your life?

National Mutts Day

Tomorrow is National Mutts Day, so let's celebrate the mutts in our lives! My family has a wonderful Mutt named Sweetie. I call her my "Magical Mystery Dog". She's a good bit smaller than a lab or a rottie, but has rottie markings and webbed feet. She really is a Sweetie.

Do you have a wonderful mutt in your life?

Operation AC--And you thought YOU were hot?!?

I have just disovered a wonderful site called Operation AC, Inc. It was started by a mother whose son was posted to Iraq in 2003. He was due to leave the military yesterday to come home and help her run the organization.

Operation AC provides air conditioners to soldiers in Iraq. Temperatures there can reach upwards of 110-119 degrees Fahrenheit. She also is committed to providing whatever the soldiers express a need for, as long as there are soldiers there. Her website has an extensive list of items that are needed by both male and female soldiers.

Recently she found out that our soldiers have been sharing supplies with coalition soldiers. These supplies are routinely issued to our soldiers by the U.S. military and include Health and Comfort Packs, which are personal care items, stationary and flashlights, Under Armour Heat Gear Shirts, and Gerber Multi-tools.

In response to this need, she has begun Coalition Care to supply these items to the brave Coalition soldiers that fight along with those from the United States.

Have you ever found yourself wishing that you could do something concrete to help not only our soldiers, but those in the coaltion, who are fighting far from home as well as enduring the terror in their own countries?

From a Catholic standpoint, the Church urges us to practice Corporal and Spiritual works of mercy which include feeding the hungery, clothing the naked, visiting the sick, giving drink to the thirsty, welcoming strangers and comforting the sorrowful.

No matter what your opinion might be about the conflict itself, let's support the brave men and women from all over the world who are in the Middle East trying to help rebuild Iraq.

Operation AC--And you thought YOU were hot?!?

I have just disovered a wonderful site called Operation AC, Inc. It was started by a mother whose son was posted to Iraq in 2003. He was due to leave the military yesterday to come home and help her run the organization.

Operation AC provides air conditioners to soldiers in Iraq. Temperatures there can reach upwards of 110-119 degrees Fahrenheit. She also is committed to providing whatever the soldiers express a need for, as long as there are soldiers there. Her website has an extensive list of items that are needed by both male and female soldiers.

Recently she found out that our soldiers have been sharing supplies with coalition soldiers. These supplies are routinely issued to our soldiers by the U.S. military and include Health and Comfort Packs, which are personal care items, stationary and flashlights, Under Armour Heat Gear Shirts, and Gerber Multi-tools.

In response to this need, she has begun Coalition Care to supply these items to the brave Coalition soldiers that fight along with those from the United States.

Have you ever found yourself wishing that you could do something concrete to help not only our soldiers, but those in the coaltion, who are fighting far from home as well as enduring the terror in their own countries?

From a Catholic standpoint, the Church urges us to practice Corporal and Spiritual works of mercy which include feeding the hungery, clothing the naked, visiting the sick, giving drink to the thirsty, welcoming strangers and comforting the sorrowful.

No matter what your opinion might be about the conflict itself, let's support the brave men and women from all over the world who are in the Middle East trying to help rebuild Iraq.

How hot is it? How hot was it?

Alright. It's really hot here!! I've been thinking of what to say about just how hot it is and I decided to tie in a couple of previous posts.

When I was a kid, in the 1960's we didn't have air conditioning of any kind for years. We had this humongous, heavy electric fan that my dad used to stand in the bathtub (no, not with water in it!) facing out the bathroom window to "circulate the air" to all the bedrooms. Theoretically, this was supposed to work. We were lucky to get a tiny, tiny breeze in our rooms. I remember some really uncomfortable days in that house during the summer! It was especially fun the summer my sister broke her wrist and I broke my collar bone, the same day, in totally unrelated incidents, by the way.

This was also before churches were air conditioned. Usually each spring or summer, some girl would usually pass out during Mass. In school, the teachers would not allow us to use our folded up spelling tests to fan ourselves, something we thought was the height of persecution.

Our car wasn't air conditioned either. My dad had to drive 3 or 4 hours to Ocean City at 70mph with the windows opened the whole way. But what was gas then...about 35 cents a gallon?

Anyway, I don't yet have an a/c unit in the room where I use my computer. So I sit here, reminiscing about the hot days of yesteryear and I'm very thankful for the air conditioning I do have.

Does anyone else remember growing up without a/c?

How hot is it? How hot was it?

Alright. It's really hot here!! I've been thinking of what to say about just how hot it is and I decided to tie in a couple of previous posts.

When I was a kid, in the 1960's we didn't have air conditioning of any kind for years. We had this humongous, heavy electric fan that my dad used to stand in the bathtub (no, not with water in it!) facing out the bathroom window to "circulate the air" to all the bedrooms. Theoretically, this was supposed to work. We were lucky to get a tiny, tiny breeze in our rooms. I remember some really uncomfortable days in that house during the summer! It was especially fun the summer my sister broke her wrist and I broke my collar bone, the same day, in totally unrelated incidents, by the way.

This was also before churches were air conditioned. Usually each spring or summer, some girl would usually pass out during Mass. In school, the teachers would not allow us to use our folded up spelling tests to fan ourselves, something we thought was the height of persecution.

Our car wasn't air conditioned either. My dad had to drive 3 or 4 hours to Ocean City at 70mph with the windows opened the whole way. But what was gas then...about 35 cents a gallon?

Anyway, I don't yet have an a/c unit in the room where I use my computer. So I sit here, reminiscing about the hot days of yesteryear and I'm very thankful for the air conditioning I do have.

Does anyone else remember growing up without a/c?

Misinterpretation of Vatican II

Theologian Tracy Rowland comments on the affects of the widespread misinterpretation and misapplication of Vatican II:

...anything that was characteristically pre-conciliar became suspect. Modes of liturgical dress, forms of prayer, different devotions, hymns that had been a part of the Church's cultural treasury for centuries, were not just dumped, but actively suppressed.

To me, this verbalizes the experience of growing up in the Church during the 1960's and 1970's. All that was Catholic culture was suppressed by many within the Church itself. While it is true that these "forms of prayer, different devotions" etc. were not necessary to salvation, it, in effect, turned many Catholic liturgies into Protestant worship services. The attraction of Catholicism was all but gone for many people.

Thankfully, we still had the Real Presence in the Eucharist. But the fact that belief in this core Catholic doctrine has waned among Catholics points to the affect of the sweeping away of Catholic devotion and practice within the Church.

Thanks once again to St. Peter's Helpers for the post that inspired this one!

Misinterpretation of Vatican II

Theologian Tracy Rowland comments on the affects of the widespread misinterpretation and misapplication of Vatican II:

...anything that was characteristically pre-conciliar became suspect. Modes of liturgical dress, forms of prayer, different devotions, hymns that had been a part of the Church's cultural treasury for centuries, were not just dumped, but actively suppressed.

To me, this verbalizes the experience of growing up in the Church during the 1960's and 1970's. All that was Catholic culture was suppressed by many within the Church itself. While it is true that these "forms of prayer, different devotions" etc. were not necessary to salvation, it, in effect, turned many Catholic liturgies into Protestant worship services. The attraction of Catholicism was all but gone for many people.

Thankfully, we still had the Real Presence in the Eucharist. But the fact that belief in this core Catholic doctrine has waned among Catholics points to the affect of the sweeping away of Catholic devotion and practice within the Church.

Thanks once again to St. Peter's Helpers for the post that inspired this one!

What do you remember from the 1960's?

Thanks to Dan L. at Catholic Answers forums for providing this wonderful idea!

What do you remember from the 1960's?

* Love beads

* All my cousins wearing these really short skirts that my mom wouldn't let me wear

* The Huntley Brinkley Report

* Walter Cronkite

* Cigarette commercials

* Everybody smoking (except my father who died when he was 57.)

* Vietnam every night on the news

* Riots in DC

* Drinking soda about once a year on our summer vacation because it was a TREAT!

* My dad working one job, coming home at 6 every night and my mom not working outside the home

* Having only one car in the family

* Not having to wear seatbelts in our one car

* Not having air conditioning in our one car

* Not having a radio in our one car

* Listening to our transistor radio slide back and forth behind the back seat of our one car

* My mom cooking boring but nutritious food for us, 3 meals a day, even though she hated cooking

* My parents paying cash for every car they ever bought

* Not realizing that The Wizard of Oz was in color because we only had one, black and white TV

* The Ed Sullivan Show

* The Jackie Gleason Show

* Mr. Ed

* My Mother the Car

* My Favorite Martian

* Queen for a Day

* Wearing a hat, gloves and patent leather shoes to church every Sunday

*Altar boys using patens

* Eagerly awaiting to see what color each nun's hair was when they went to short habits.

* Feeling petrified at the thought of having to shake strangers' hands at the then new, "kiss of peace" at Mass.

* New year's eve, 1968

* Being woken up to watch the first man land on the moon.

What about you?

What do you remember from the 1960's?

Thanks to Dan L. at Catholic Answers forums for providing this wonderful idea!

What do you remember from the 1960's?

* Love beads

* All my cousins wearing these really short skirts that my mom wouldn't let me wear

* The Huntley Brinkley Report

* Walter Cronkite

* Cigarette commercials

* Everybody smoking (except my father who died when he was 57.)

* Vietnam every night on the news

* Riots in DC

* Drinking soda about once a year on our summer vacation because it was a TREAT!

* My dad working one job, coming home at 6 every night and my mom not working outside the home

* Having only one car in the family

* Not having to wear seatbelts in our one car

* Not having air conditioning in our one car

* Not having a radio in our one car

* Listening to our transistor radio slide back and forth behind the back seat of our one car

* My mom cooking boring but nutritious food for us, 3 meals a day, even though she hated cooking

* My parents paying cash for every car they ever bought

* Not realizing that The Wizard of Oz was in color because we only had one, black and white TV

* The Ed Sullivan Show

* The Jackie Gleason Show

* Mr. Ed

* My Mother the Car

* My Favorite Martian

* Queen for a Day

* Wearing a hat, gloves and patent leather shoes to church every Sunday

*Altar boys using patens

* Eagerly awaiting to see what color each nun's hair was when they went to short habits.

* Feeling petrified at the thought of having to shake strangers' hands at the then new, "kiss of peace" at Mass.

* New year's eve, 1968

* Being woken up to watch the first man land on the moon.

What about you?

Was Catholic Piety Hidden from You?

Great post over at Recta Ratio. The writer went to Catholic schools in the 70's and learned virtually nothing about his faith. So many of us can identify with that, I'm sure! There is so much out there to learn! Catholicism is like a multi-layered, stained glass window, or a beautiful painting. There is so much to discover! The following is a pertinent quote from the article:

I had never been taught word one, in 19 years in Catholic schools (and I got A's in all my grade school religion classes) about The Sacred Heart, the Immaculate Heart, the Miraculous Medal, the Brown Scapular, the Green Scapular, the Red Scapular, the Black Scapular, the Blue Scapular, the White Scapular, First Fridays, First Saturdays, meatless Fridays (except during Lent), veiling images, Black Fasts, Ember Days, Rogation Days, Jesse Trees, Advent Wreaths, the proper use of sacramentals, etc.

So many of us growing up in the 60's and 70's have so many gaps about the faith we were raised in. For example,as an adult, I read in a Catholic novel about how all Catholics should carry a rosary with them at all times. I was never really taught to do that.

There was so much substance that we weren't exposed to and many of us didn't know existed.

There is certainly a hidden richness in the Church!

Was Catholic Piety Hidden from You?

Great post over at Recta Ratio. The writer went to Catholic schools in the 70's and learned virtually nothing about his faith. So many of us can identify with that, I'm sure! There is so much out there to learn! Catholicism is like a multi-layered, stained glass window, or a beautiful painting. There is so much to discover! The following is a pertinent quote from the article:

I had never been taught word one, in 19 years in Catholic schools (and I got A's in all my grade school religion classes) about The Sacred Heart, the Immaculate Heart, the Miraculous Medal, the Brown Scapular, the Green Scapular, the Red Scapular, the Black Scapular, the Blue Scapular, the White Scapular, First Fridays, First Saturdays, meatless Fridays (except during Lent), veiling images, Black Fasts, Ember Days, Rogation Days, Jesse Trees, Advent Wreaths, the proper use of sacramentals, etc.

So many of us growing up in the 60's and 70's have so many gaps about the faith we were raised in. For example,as an adult, I read in a Catholic novel about how all Catholics should carry a rosary with them at all times. I was never really taught to do that.

There was so much substance that we weren't exposed to and many of us didn't know existed.

There is certainly a hidden richness in the Church!

Farewell, Mr. Scott

James Doohan, the actor who played Mr. Montgomery Scott (Scotty) on the original Star Trek, died today at his home in Redmond, WA. He had Alzheimer's disease and was 85 years old.

In television, time seems to stand still. In the Star Trek series, it is sometimes difficult to keep track of time at all.

We will miss James Doohan, who set the standard for all Star Trek engineers to come (or to precede him, as is the case with at least one Star Trek!)

We wish him smooth sailing in the life to come!

Farewell, Mr. Scott

James Doohan, the actor who played Mr. Montgomery Scott (Scotty) on the original Star Trek, died today at his home in Redmond, WA. He had Alzheimer's disease and was 85 years old.

In television, time seems to stand still. In the Star Trek series, it is sometimes difficult to keep track of time at all.

We will miss James Doohan, who set the standard for all Star Trek engineers to come (or to precede him, as is the case with at least one Star Trek!)

We wish him smooth sailing in the life to come!

Update on PA petition

For those of you in the large state of PA, petitions are still circulating in opposition to the state legislators' self appointed pay raise. In addition to the link in my previous post, WHP580 AM radio has a petition going as well. You can sign it online or download it to sign and distribute and mail it in via snail mail.

Note: I've just been made aware of a brand new site: Operation Clean Sweep Pennsylvania has been founded by Russ Diamond of Harrisburg, PA. According to KDKA's web site, Diamond explains the purpose of Operation Clean Sweep.

"'Operation Clean Sweep' is an attempt to defeat every single incumbent in the General Assembly who's up for reelection next year."

Diamond says it is time to make a clean sweep of the legislature and vote against every incumbent, no matter how he/she voted in the pay raise bill. He beleives those who voted against it only did so because they knew there were enough yes votes. Their slogan is, "Because taxpayers are not sheep." His site is worth visiting and supporting, I think.

Another interesting site to visit is Pennsylvanians for the U.S. Fair Tax Act. They claim that a fair tax is possible and that 95% of Americans would pay lower taxes under their system, which does not involve tax filing, since there are no loop holes. One of their slogans is: April 15th--Make it just another day! Very interesting and tempting concept.

Update on PA petition

For those of you in the large state of PA, petitions are still circulating in opposition to the state legislators' self appointed pay raise. In addition to the link in my previous post, WHP580 AM radio has a petition going as well. You can sign it online or download it to sign and distribute and mail it in via snail mail.

Note: I've just been made aware of a brand new site: Operation Clean Sweep Pennsylvania has been founded by Russ Diamond of Harrisburg, PA. According to KDKA's web site, Diamond explains the purpose of Operation Clean Sweep.

"'Operation Clean Sweep' is an attempt to defeat every single incumbent in the General Assembly who's up for reelection next year."

Diamond says it is time to make a clean sweep of the legislature and vote against every incumbent, no matter how he/she voted in the pay raise bill. He beleives those who voted against it only did so because they knew there were enough yes votes. Their slogan is, "Because taxpayers are not sheep." His site is worth visiting and supporting, I think.

Another interesting site to visit is Pennsylvanians for the U.S. Fair Tax Act. They claim that a fair tax is possible and that 95% of Americans would pay lower taxes under their system, which does not involve tax filing, since there are no loop holes. One of their slogans is: April 15th--Make it just another day! Very interesting and tempting concept.

Insights from Pope Benedict

Pope Benedict has written a new book titled "On The Way to Jesus Christ". In it he says, that contrary to many assumptions, Jesus "is quite different, demanding, bold. The Jesus who makes everything OK for everyone is a phantom, a dream, not a real figure. The Jesus of the Gospels is certainly not convenient for us. But it is precisely in this way that he answers the deepest question of our existence, which--whether we want to or not--keeps us on the lookout for God, for a gratification that is limitless, for the infinite. We must again set out on the way to this real Jesus."

This reminds me of the relationship that Abraham had with God. Life, for Abraham, did not get easier after he found God. But he knew that God existed and was always there. This is the way life is, often. It is difficult, with difficult decisions and inconvenient occurances. But knowing that God exists, and that Jesus and His Holy Spirit are with us no matter how hard life may get, is very comforting. Finding, as Pope Benedict says, "The Infinite", gives us "a gratification that is limitless."

The book is available for shipment in October of this year. Go to Ignatius Insight for details. Thank you to Ignatius Insight for the heads up!

Insights from Pope Benedict

Pope Benedict has written a new book titled "On The Way to Jesus Christ". In it he says, that contrary to many assumptions, Jesus "is quite different, demanding, bold. The Jesus who makes everything OK for everyone is a phantom, a dream, not a real figure. The Jesus of the Gospels is certainly not convenient for us. But it is precisely in this way that he answers the deepest question of our existence, which--whether we want to or not--keeps us on the lookout for God, for a gratification that is limitless, for the infinite. We must again set out on the way to this real Jesus."

This reminds me of the relationship that Abraham had with God. Life, for Abraham, did not get easier after he found God. But he knew that God existed and was always there. This is the way life is, often. It is difficult, with difficult decisions and inconvenient occurances. But knowing that God exists, and that Jesus and His Holy Spirit are with us no matter how hard life may get, is very comforting. Finding, as Pope Benedict says, "The Infinite", gives us "a gratification that is limitless."

The book is available for shipment in October of this year. Go to Ignatius Insight for details. Thank you to Ignatius Insight for the heads up!

Crosses Across America

When you get a minute, visit Crosses Across America. Their purpose is to encourage Americans to demonstrate their faith by putting religious symbols of their faith on their private property. The group is non-denominational and encourages the use of whatever faith symbols are appropriate to your beleif system.

The above image is a picture of a statue of The Immaculate Heart of Mary to whom my husband and myself are very devoted. She stands in quiet corner of our yard. (Thanks to our son for taking the picture.)

This is a freedom that I think is easy to take for granted. We live in a free country and this is something we should continue to be allowed to do. Don't be afraid to express your faith in public!

Crosses Across America

When you get a minute, visit Crosses Across America. Their purpose is to encourage Americans to demonstrate their faith by putting religious symbols of their faith on their private property. The group is non-denominational and encourages the use of whatever faith symbols are appropriate to your beleif system.

The above image is a picture of a statue of The Immaculate Heart of Mary to whom my husband and myself are very devoted. She stands in quiet corner of our yard. (Thanks to our son for taking the picture.)

This is a freedom that I think is easy to take for granted. We live in a free country and this is something we should continue to be allowed to do. Don't be afraid to express your faith in public!

If your are sick, get better or get out...

Prejudice against people with a less-than-perfect health status is becoming increasingly common today. Case in point: The hoopla over Judge Rehnquist. There are cries from some quarters that Rehnquist has to resign because he has cancer and is elderly, similar to what was said of Pope John Paul II in the years before his death.

In this culture, if someone is elderly, ill, and especially if they look ill, they are to be put aside. Not seen and not heard. We can't handle it so they have to disappear. Recent legal decisions in Florida will only validate this point of view. The world is to be populated by pretty, healthy looking people who can make and spend money, according to some.

I can't help but wonder if these same people would feel differently if they found themselves in a similar situation. Remember, we are all one car accident away from being disabled.

For more on this point of view, visit Not Dead Yet--the Resistance disability rights group.

If your are sick, get better or get out...

Prejudice against people with a less-than-perfect health status is becoming increasingly common today. Case in point: The hoopla over Judge Rehnquist. There are cries from some quarters that Rehnquist has to resign because he has cancer and is elderly, similar to what was said of Pope John Paul II in the years before his death.

In this culture, if someone is elderly, ill, and especially if they look ill, they are to be put aside. Not seen and not heard. We can't handle it so they have to disappear. Recent legal decisions in Florida will only validate this point of view. The world is to be populated by pretty, healthy looking people who can make and spend money, according to some.

I can't help but wonder if these same people would feel differently if they found themselves in a similar situation. Remember, we are all one car accident away from being disabled.

For more on this point of view, visit Not Dead Yet--the Resistance disability rights group.

The Top Ten Lies of Television

"The media can wreak great harm on the family when it offers an inadequate or even distorted vision of life, of the family itself and of religion and morality."
-- Pope John Paul II, May 2004

Top Ten Lies of Television from Justpeace.org

10. TV is real life.

9. TV news tells the truth.

8. TV characters are good role models.

7. Children's TV is harmless.

6. TV advertising benefits you.

5. Everybody watches it, so I have to.

4. My life will be better if I buy advertised products.

3. What I and my kids watch doesn't really affect us.

2. I can learn all I need to know by watching TV.

And the Number One Lie is:

Television is Necessary.

(S) shareright 1997-2000 by Robert Waldrop, http://www.justpeace.org . This document may be freely reprinted or forwarded via the internet or any other communications medium as long as this notice is included with the forwarded or reprinted copy.

The Top Ten Lies of Television

"The media can wreak great harm on the family when it offers an inadequate or even distorted vision of life, of the family itself and of religion and morality."
-- Pope John Paul II, May 2004

Top Ten Lies of Television from Justpeace.org

10. TV is real life.

9. TV news tells the truth.

8. TV characters are good role models.

7. Children's TV is harmless.

6. TV advertising benefits you.

5. Everybody watches it, so I have to.

4. My life will be better if I buy advertised products.

3. What I and my kids watch doesn't really affect us.

2. I can learn all I need to know by watching TV.

And the Number One Lie is:

Television is Necessary.

(S) shareright 1997-2000 by Robert Waldrop, http://www.justpeace.org . This document may be freely reprinted or forwarded via the internet or any other communications medium as long as this notice is included with the forwarded or reprinted copy.

Ishmael and Isaac

Here is more on Abraham, by Bruce Feiler. St. Peter's Helpers asked about the Islamic view of Abraham and it got me thinking about the dichotomy of Ishmael and Isaac.

Apparently, the Koran doesn't specifically name either Isaac or Ishmael as the "favored son" God asks Abraham to sacrifice, but many Muslims believe that it was not Isaac, but Ishmael who was bound and brought on the mountain.

The book does put forth the idea that Scripture has a balance between Isaac and Ishmael, and indeed, between many eldest/younger son pairs. Often, the eldest don't inherit as the custom or law assumes they will. The eldest are often banished or tricked out of their inheritance and the younger often inherits in the eldest's place.

Again, we seem to have the theme of upheaval and alien-ness with God's constant presence as an over riding theme. God does not seem to promise an easy life, but life is made meaningful through God, even in its apparent lack of logic.

Ishmael and Isaac

Here is more on Abraham, by Bruce Feiler. St. Peter's Helpers asked about the Islamic view of Abraham and it got me thinking about the dichotomy of Ishmael and Isaac.

Apparently, the Koran doesn't specifically name either Isaac or Ishmael as the "favored son" God asks Abraham to sacrifice, but many Muslims believe that it was not Isaac, but Ishmael who was bound and brought on the mountain.

The book does put forth the idea that Scripture has a balance between Isaac and Ishmael, and indeed, between many eldest/younger son pairs. Often, the eldest don't inherit as the custom or law assumes they will. The eldest are often banished or tricked out of their inheritance and the younger often inherits in the eldest's place.

Again, we seem to have the theme of upheaval and alien-ness with God's constant presence as an over riding theme. God does not seem to promise an easy life, but life is made meaningful through God, even in its apparent lack of logic.

Abraham

I'm also reading Abraham by Bruce Feiler. In it, he seeks to portray Abraham, the father of the Judaism, Christianity and Islam. Abraham was the first monotheist. The people of his time, including, according to Judaic sources, his own father, worshiped many gods. Abraham, or Abram as he was then called, had the courage to break with tradition and follow his own path searching for the one God he knew existed.

His relationship with God was not all sweetness-and-light. It was certainly not a "feel good" religion. Abraham's story is fraught with doubt, broken relationships and confusion and covered overall with a wandering sense of alien feelings. Yet, the quest for God continued and Abraham was changed, and history was changed forever.

Abraham

I'm also reading Abraham by Bruce Feiler. In it, he seeks to portray Abraham, the father of the Judaism, Christianity and Islam. Abraham was the first monotheist. The people of his time, including, according to Judaic sources, his own father, worshiped many gods. Abraham, or Abram as he was then called, had the courage to break with tradition and follow his own path searching for the one God he knew existed.

His relationship with God was not all sweetness-and-light. It was certainly not a "feel good" religion. Abraham's story is fraught with doubt, broken relationships and confusion and covered overall with a wandering sense of alien feelings. Yet, the quest for God continued and Abraham was changed, and history was changed forever.

More FDR--"Unreasoning Terror"

I'm still reading FDR--A Biography by Ted Morgan. The opening lines of Roosevelt's famous first inaugural speech stood out as I read them in the wake of the latest attacks on London.

So first of all, let me assert my firm belief that the only thing we have to fear is fear itself--nameless, unreasoning, unjustified terror which paralyzes needed efforts to convert retreat into advance.

"Unreasoning terror" is the goal of unreasoning terrorists. Let's make sure they don't reach their goal.

More FDR--"Unreasoning Terror"

I'm still reading FDR--A Biography by Ted Morgan. The opening lines of Roosevelt's famous first inaugural speech stood out as I read them in the wake of the latest attacks on London.

So first of all, let me assert my firm belief that the only thing we have to fear is fear itself--nameless, unreasoning, unjustified terror which paralyzes needed efforts to convert retreat into advance.

"Unreasoning terror" is the goal of unreasoning terrorists. Let's make sure they don't reach their goal.

Swear on the Koran?

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) has called for a North Caronlina court to allow witnesses to swear on the Holy Scripture of their choice, including the Koran. Current law there requires witnesses to place their left hand on the "Holy Scriptures" and raise their right hand while swearing to tell the truth in their testimony. A presently legal alternative is to affirm that one will tell the truth. This is usually used by those people whose religious beleifs prevent them from taking an oath.

CAIR argues that the term "Holy Scriptures" can be taken to mean the Koran as well as the Christian Bible. According to CNS News, "North Carolina's Administrative Office of the Courts last week issued a preliminary opinion saying that state law allows people to be sworn in using a Koran rather than a Bible."

In spite of my political leanings, I agree with CAIR on this one. As long as swearing on the Koran is not mandatory, I don't see the problem with using the witnesses' own Holy Scripture if he or she chooses.

Swear on the Koran?

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) has called for a North Caronlina court to allow witnesses to swear on the Holy Scripture of their choice, including the Koran. Current law there requires witnesses to place their left hand on the "Holy Scriptures" and raise their right hand while swearing to tell the truth in their testimony. A presently legal alternative is to affirm that one will tell the truth. This is usually used by those people whose religious beleifs prevent them from taking an oath.

CAIR argues that the term "Holy Scriptures" can be taken to mean the Koran as well as the Christian Bible. According to CNS News, "North Carolina's Administrative Office of the Courts last week issued a preliminary opinion saying that state law allows people to be sworn in using a Koran rather than a Bible."

In spite of my political leanings, I agree with CAIR on this one. As long as swearing on the Koran is not mandatory, I don't see the problem with using the witnesses' own Holy Scripture if he or she chooses.

Free Speech for Bloggers!!

Check out The Online Coalition which is an organization comprised of bloggers from both the left and the right. Federal Election Commission Commissioner Bradley Smith recently did an interview with CNET.com. In it he suggested that there would be a "coming crackdown" on internet bloggers' free speech.

Another great site is The Electronic Frontier Foundation. They publish A Legal Guide for Bloggers and advocate for internet free speech rights.

I believe the internet is essential to continued democracy in this country. Let's keep the internet free speech going!

Free Speech for Bloggers!!

Check out The Online Coalition which is an organization comprised of bloggers from both the left and the right. Federal Election Commission Commissioner Bradley Smith recently did an interview with CNET.com. In it he suggested that there would be a "coming crackdown" on internet bloggers' free speech.

Another great site is The Electronic Frontier Foundation. They publish A Legal Guide for Bloggers and advocate for internet free speech rights.

I believe the internet is essential to continued democracy in this country. Let's keep the internet free speech going!

Happy Feast Day, Pope Benedict!!

A thank you goes out to St. Peter's Helpers for pointing out that today is the feast of St. Benedict of Nursia. St. Benedict is a saint close to my heart for a number of reasons. My mother was baptized at St. Benedict's in Baltimore, approximately 78 years ago. As is often the case with life, our paths cross and criss cross as we move down the generations. My family ended up attending St. Benedict's, after almost 2 generations of going elsewhere. My son took the name Benedict as a confirmation name.

We now live in PA, and we miss St. Benedict's very much! Their reverent liturgy is truly unmatched. I urge you to check out their website and you'll see why!

I really like the Benedictine philosophy of "balance". I think this is especially important in today's society. It is so easy for us to get caught up in the busy-ness of everyday life and so difficult to remember to take time for our family, ourselves and God.

To Saint Benedict, life consisted of both "ora" (prayer) and "labora" (work). Both are important and balance is the key. I think it can be a key to maintaining both spiritual and mental health.

Ora et Labora!

Happy Feast Day, Pope Benedict!!

A thank you goes out to St. Peter's Helpers for pointing out that today is the feast of St. Benedict of Nursia. St. Benedict is a saint close to my heart for a number of reasons. My mother was baptized at St. Benedict's in Baltimore, approximately 78 years ago. As is often the case with life, our paths cross and criss cross as we move down the generations. My family ended up attending St. Benedict's, after almost 2 generations of going elsewhere. My son took the name Benedict as a confirmation name.

We now live in PA, and we miss St. Benedict's very much! Their reverent liturgy is truly unmatched. I urge you to check out their website and you'll see why!

I really like the Benedictine philosophy of "balance". I think this is especially important in today's society. It is so easy for us to get caught up in the busy-ness of everyday life and so difficult to remember to take time for our family, ourselves and God.

To Saint Benedict, life consisted of both "ora" (prayer) and "labora" (work). Both are important and balance is the key. I think it can be a key to maintaining both spiritual and mental health.

Ora et Labora!

Poor Pennsylvania legislators!!!!

Pennsylvania legislators just voted themselves a raise that would make them the second highest paid legislators in the nation. California's law makers get paid $99,000 per year and under this plan, PA legislators will get a measly $81,000.

All this is ironic given the fact that young people often move out of the area into Maryland or Washington DC for education and job opportunities.

PennLive.com reports that "in addition to their salaries, Pennsylvania lawmakers receive fully paid health insurance and a fully paid pension. They receive as much as $7,800 a year for vehicle expenses and those who live more than 50 miles from the Capitol get $129 a day in expenses."

I think its time to get involved politically in Pennsylvania and vote the incumbents out the door!!! Anyone who is interested in signing a petition voicing your opposition to this pay raise go to
http://www.thepetitionsite.com/takeaction/350338362!

Poor Pennsylvania legislators!!!!

Pennsylvania legislators just voted themselves a raise that would make them the second highest paid legislators in the nation. California's law makers get paid $99,000 per year and under this plan, PA legislators will get a measly $81,000.

All this is ironic given the fact that young people often move out of the area into Maryland or Washington DC for education and job opportunities.

PennLive.com reports that "in addition to their salaries, Pennsylvania lawmakers receive fully paid health insurance and a fully paid pension. They receive as much as $7,800 a year for vehicle expenses and those who live more than 50 miles from the Capitol get $129 a day in expenses."

I think its time to get involved politically in Pennsylvania and vote the incumbents out the door!!! Anyone who is interested in signing a petition voicing your opposition to this pay raise go to
http://www.thepetitionsite.com/takeaction/350338362!

Oh God, our help in ages past

As Recta Ratio says, "If you mess with the Lion, you mess with the Eagle, too."

We in the United States stand with our brothers in the United Kingdom, as well as those victims of terror throughout the world.

"Our God, Our Help in Ages Past"

Oh God, our Help in ages past,
Our Hope for years to come,
Our Shelter from the stormy blast,
And our eternal Home!

Under the shadow of Thy throne
Thy saints have dwelt secure;
Sufficient is Thine arm alone,
And our defense is sure.

Before the hills in order stood
Or earth received her frame,
From everlasting Thou art God,
To endless years the same.

A thousand ages in Thy sight
Are like an evening gone,
Short as the watch that ends the night
Before the rising sun.

Thy word commands our flesh to dust:
"Return ye sons of men!"
All nations rose from earth at first
And turn to earth again.

Time, like an ever-rolling stream,
Bears all its sons away;
They fly forgotten as a dream
Dies at the opening day.

Like flowery fields the nations stand,
Pleased with the morning light;
The flowers beneath the mower's hand
Lie withering ere 'tis night.

Our God, our Help in ages past,
Our Hope for years to come,
Be Thou our Guard while troubles last
And our eternal Home!

Oh God, our help in ages past

As Recta Ratio says, "If you mess with the Lion, you mess with the Eagle, too."

We in the United States stand with our brothers in the United Kingdom, as well as those victims of terror throughout the world.

"Our God, Our Help in Ages Past"

Oh God, our Help in ages past,
Our Hope for years to come,
Our Shelter from the stormy blast,
And our eternal Home!

Under the shadow of Thy throne
Thy saints have dwelt secure;
Sufficient is Thine arm alone,
And our defense is sure.

Before the hills in order stood
Or earth received her frame,
From everlasting Thou art God,
To endless years the same.

A thousand ages in Thy sight
Are like an evening gone,
Short as the watch that ends the night
Before the rising sun.

Thy word commands our flesh to dust:
"Return ye sons of men!"
All nations rose from earth at first
And turn to earth again.

Time, like an ever-rolling stream,
Bears all its sons away;
They fly forgotten as a dream
Dies at the opening day.

Like flowery fields the nations stand,
Pleased with the morning light;
The flowers beneath the mower's hand
Lie withering ere 'tis night.

Our God, our Help in ages past,
Our Hope for years to come,
Be Thou our Guard while troubles last
And our eternal Home!

A Bit of Self Pity

The wonderful warm, loving feelings about taking care of my mom has given way to feeling a bit sorry for myself. She is still forgetting her meds, although doing a bit better. Same with eating. She does eat, and then she won't for a while. Today I spent the afternoon arguing with her insurance company who wouldn't give me any information because I'm not on her policy and she won't give me official power of attorney.

But, I must hang onto the fact that, no matter what a helpless sinner I am, (or perhaps because of it) God is there and He has a plan for everything.

A Bit of Self Pity

The wonderful warm, loving feelings about taking care of my mom has given way to feeling a bit sorry for myself. She is still forgetting her meds, although doing a bit better. Same with eating. She does eat, and then she won't for a while. Today I spent the afternoon arguing with her insurance company who wouldn't give me any information because I'm not on her policy and she won't give me official power of attorney.

But, I must hang onto the fact that, no matter what a helpless sinner I am, (or perhaps because of it) God is there and He has a plan for everything.

Terror in London

This morning the world received news that 6 terrorist bombs have gone off in the London tube and in one bus in the wake of the G8 Summit in Scotland. Call me naive, but I don't understand why anyone would do this, especially in the name of God.

I live in Gettysburg, the site of the most decisive battle of the U.S. Civil War. In that war, civilian deaths were so rare, that we have a monument to Jenny Wade, who was a civilian killed in her home when a bullet came through her window while she was baking bread for the soldiers.

What has become of mankind when the very definition of war has changed from uniformed representatives of various countries, to acts of terror on innocent civilians?

God help us all.

Terror in London

This morning the world received news that 6 terrorist bombs have gone off in the London tube and in one bus in the wake of the G8 Summit in Scotland. Call me naive, but I don't understand why anyone would do this, especially in the name of God.

I live in Gettysburg, the site of the most decisive battle of the U.S. Civil War. In that war, civilian deaths were so rare, that we have a monument to Jenny Wade, who was a civilian killed in her home when a bullet came through her window while she was baking bread for the soldiers.

What has become of mankind when the very definition of war has changed from uniformed representatives of various countries, to acts of terror on innocent civilians?

God help us all.

Social entrepreneurs

I saw quite an inspiring program on PBS the other day called "The New Heros". It profiled people who call themselves "social entrepreneurs" and use their talents to start businesses which are specifically designed to help marginalized people. One woman, Dina Abdel Wahab, started "The Baby Academy" in Cairo, Egypt, when she gave birth to a son with Down's Syndrome and realized there was no where in the current Egyptian educational system for him. In fact, Egypt is just now learning about disabilities and her work is doing a great deal to further disability education in all sectors.

Another inspiring woman, Inderjit Khurana, has opened as many "Train Platform Schools" in India as her limited resources allow. There are many Indian children who live in gangs and make their money begging, stealing or in prostitution. She has taken her schools right to the train platforms themselves, to better reach the children before they get involved in the illegal lifestyle.

Sompop Jantraka is in Thailand and is working to rescue girls from all over Asia who are sold by their parents to Taiwanese brothel owners. He provides education, a half way house, vocational training and official papers so that they can become functioning members of society.

It is so easy in this day and age to fall into despair. What was especially inspiring about these stories is that they take place in countries where there is so much need. These people didn't rely on a government that they saw as failing their people. Instead, they decided to do something about it, one child at a time.

Their stories reminded me of various orders of monks, brothers, and nuns who live in the inner cities of the U.S. and give up every comfort of life so that the people they minister to can find comfort.

Social entrepreneurs

I saw quite an inspiring program on PBS the other day called "The New Heros". It profiled people who call themselves "social entrepreneurs" and use their talents to start businesses which are specifically designed to help marginalized people. One woman, Dina Abdel Wahab, started "The Baby Academy" in Cairo, Egypt, when she gave birth to a son with Down's Syndrome and realized there was no where in the current Egyptian educational system for him. In fact, Egypt is just now learning about disabilities and her work is doing a great deal to further disability education in all sectors.

Another inspiring woman, Inderjit Khurana, has opened as many "Train Platform Schools" in India as her limited resources allow. There are many Indian children who live in gangs and make their money begging, stealing or in prostitution. She has taken her schools right to the train platforms themselves, to better reach the children before they get involved in the illegal lifestyle.

Sompop Jantraka is in Thailand and is working to rescue girls from all over Asia who are sold by their parents to Taiwanese brothel owners. He provides education, a half way house, vocational training and official papers so that they can become functioning members of society.

It is so easy in this day and age to fall into despair. What was especially inspiring about these stories is that they take place in countries where there is so much need. These people didn't rely on a government that they saw as failing their people. Instead, they decided to do something about it, one child at a time.

Their stories reminded me of various orders of monks, brothers, and nuns who live in the inner cities of the U.S. and give up every comfort of life so that the people they minister to can find comfort.

What's up with Florida?!?!

A U.S. District Judge in Ft. Meyers, FL, Virginia M. Hernandez Covington has ruled that a middle school girl cannot distribute pro-life literature in her public middle school. Quoted in an article on Lifenews.com, attorney Thomas Gonzalez of Tampa said on behalf of the Lee County School District that the "materials would cause the students to have questions and teachers were not prepared to lead discussions on the topic of abortion." But, these same teachers are apparently quite prepared to discuss premarital sex, sexually transmitted diseases and birth control. In fact, it is most probably mandated by the state.

Ms. Covington and Mr. Gonzalez apparently join other Florida judges and attorneys in their quest to snuff out life at all costs.

What's up with Florida?!?!

A U.S. District Judge in Ft. Meyers, FL, Virginia M. Hernandez Covington has ruled that a middle school girl cannot distribute pro-life literature in her public middle school. Quoted in an article on Lifenews.com, attorney Thomas Gonzalez of Tampa said on behalf of the Lee County School District that the "materials would cause the students to have questions and teachers were not prepared to lead discussions on the topic of abortion." But, these same teachers are apparently quite prepared to discuss premarital sex, sexually transmitted diseases and birth control. In fact, it is most probably mandated by the state.

Ms. Covington and Mr. Gonzalez apparently join other Florida judges and attorneys in their quest to snuff out life at all costs.

Liturgical things that get under my skin

I realize that some of this is probably not technically "liturgical abuse", but, nevertheless, gets under my skin.

Am I the only one who cringes when I see an altar server lighting the altar candles with one of those BBQ lighters? I really like the old fashioned candle lighter/snuffers. Is the Holy Mass not worth using one of these, or are we really just at a big communal meal? (Gee, I guess that's where the term Cafeteria Catholic comes from!)

Another thing I truly don't understand--why is it necessary for some parishes to announce the names of the readers, extraordinary ministers and altar servers before Mass? Are we voting on which one we like best?! Why not just put up a movie marquis with their names on it?

Also, why do some priests insist on having the congregation shake hands and introduce themselves before Mass when there is the sign of peace during Mass? I guess the GRIM is just not enough for some people...

Liturgical things that get under my skin

I realize that some of this is probably not technically "liturgical abuse", but, nevertheless, gets under my skin.

Am I the only one who cringes when I see an altar server lighting the altar candles with one of those BBQ lighters? I really like the old fashioned candle lighter/snuffers. Is the Holy Mass not worth using one of these, or are we really just at a big communal meal? (Gee, I guess that's where the term Cafeteria Catholic comes from!)

Another thing I truly don't understand--why is it necessary for some parishes to announce the names of the readers, extraordinary ministers and altar servers before Mass? Are we voting on which one we like best?! Why not just put up a movie marquis with their names on it?

Also, why do some priests insist on having the congregation shake hands and introduce themselves before Mass when there is the sign of peace during Mass? I guess the GRIM is just not enough for some people...

Should we boycott Beijing?

With the 2008 Beijing Olympics approaching, I can't help but remember the U.S. Boycott of the 1980 Moscow Olympics. At the time, I was disappointed, along with the athletes who didn't get to take part.

I wonder, though--should the U.S. boycott the upcoming Olympics in Beijing? China as a country, is far from a shining example of "human rights". Their one child policy of enforced abortions go against the ethics of even many secular people in the U.S.

Their continued persecution of Chinese Catholics is very worrisome. Reuters news service reports that China has arrested an underground Catholic bishop. None of this can be good for future relations between China and the Vatican.

Should we boycott Beijing?

With the 2008 Beijing Olympics approaching, I can't help but remember the U.S. Boycott of the 1980 Moscow Olympics. At the time, I was disappointed, along with the athletes who didn't get to take part.

I wonder, though--should the U.S. boycott the upcoming Olympics in Beijing? China as a country, is far from a shining example of "human rights". Their one child policy of enforced abortions go against the ethics of even many secular people in the U.S.

Their continued persecution of Chinese Catholics is very worrisome. Reuters news service reports that China has arrested an underground Catholic bishop. None of this can be good for future relations between China and the Vatican.

More Germans going to Mass

Christian Today reports an upswing in German church going since the death of John Paul II and the election of Benedict. Cardinal Carl Lehmann, bishop of Mainz, Germany says that "in the period from May to June more people returned to his diocese than in the whole of 2004." This is certainly good news coming from a Europe where almost no one goes to church. In Lehmann's opinion, "This was not just a 'short emotional moment' but rather something with "definite sustainability".

Thank God for that! May we live to see a resurgence of Mass attendance all over Europe!

More Germans going to Mass

Christian Today reports an upswing in German church going since the death of John Paul II and the election of Benedict. Cardinal Carl Lehmann, bishop of Mainz, Germany says that "in the period from May to June more people returned to his diocese than in the whole of 2004." This is certainly good news coming from a Europe where almost no one goes to church. In Lehmann's opinion, "This was not just a 'short emotional moment' but rather something with "definite sustainability".

Thank God for that! May we live to see a resurgence of Mass attendance all over Europe!

How do you like your hotdog?

July is National Hot Dog month in the states. The hot dog/frankfurter/wiener is eaten in many different ways depending on the region of the country you are from. Here in Gettysburg, we have a wonderful little hot dog place called The Dog House, which serves hotdogs in a variety of ways.

For example, my son's favorite, The Baltimore, has a hot dog, wrapped in fried bologna, with mustard, and saur kraut. (He likes his minus the kraut.) My husband's favorite is The Cashtown which has a sweet BBQ sauce and melted cheese. I had The Boston which serves the hot dog with baked beans and onion. The DC dog has mustard, ketchup and relish. That's the way I liked them when I was growing up. There are many, many more.

What is your favorite hotdog?

How do you like your hotdog?

July is National Hot Dog month in the states. The hot dog/frankfurter/wiener is eaten in many different ways depending on the region of the country you are from. Here in Gettysburg, we have a wonderful little hot dog place called The Dog House, which serves hotdogs in a variety of ways.

For example, my son's favorite, The Baltimore, has a hot dog, wrapped in fried bologna, with mustard, and saur kraut. (He likes his minus the kraut.) My husband's favorite is The Cashtown which has a sweet BBQ sauce and melted cheese. I had The Boston which serves the hot dog with baked beans and onion. The DC dog has mustard, ketchup and relish. That's the way I liked them when I was growing up. There are many, many more.

What is your favorite hotdog?

No Casino in Gettysburg!!!

Well, the almighty dollar has reared its ugly head yet again. There has been a proposal to erect a 5000 slot gambling casino in Gettysburg, PA in the U.S., sight of the most decisive battle of our Civil War.

I'm not a gambling fan myself, but aside from the issue of gambling itself, this proposed casino does not fit the historic feel of the area and would be inappropriate.

If you have ever been to Gettysburg, or studied the Civil War and oppose this casino, go to http://www.nocasinogettysburg.com for more information.

No Casino in Gettysburg!!!

Well, the almighty dollar has reared its ugly head yet again. There has been a proposal to erect a 5000 slot gambling casino in Gettysburg, PA in the U.S., sight of the most decisive battle of our Civil War.

I'm not a gambling fan myself, but aside from the issue of gambling itself, this proposed casino does not fit the historic feel of the area and would be inappropriate.

If you have ever been to Gettysburg, or studied the Civil War and oppose this casino, go to http://www.nocasinogettysburg.com for more information.

Church music for the 4th

There is some controversy over what music is appropriate to sing in church on the 4th of July in the United States. I have known clergy who loath any patriotic music on that day, and of course there are those for whom God and Country are almost interchangable.

Adoremus, the Society for Renewal of the Sacred Liturgy suggests what it calls "The National Hymn"--God of Our Fathers. Played properly, with all the flourishes, it is a moving and appropriate song for this time of year.

I also like Eternal Father, Strong to Save, otherwise known as The Navy Hymn. It was a favorite of FDR's.

Eternal Father, strong to save,
Whose arm hath bound the restless wave,
Who biddest the mighty ocean deep
Its own appointed limits keep;
Oh, hear us when we cry to Thee,
For those in peril on the sea!

O Christ! Whose voice the waters heard
And hushed their raging at Thy Word,
Who walked on the foaming deep,
And calm amidst its rage didst sleep;
Oh, hear us when we cry to Thee,
For those in peril on the sea!

Most Holy Spirit! Who didst brood
Upon the chaos dark and rude,
And bid its angry tumult cease,
And give, for wild confusion, peace;
Oh, hear us when we cry to Thee,
For those in peril on the sea!

O Trinity of love and power!
Our family shield in danger’s hour;
From rock and tempest, fire and foe,
Protect us wheresoever we go;
Thus evermore shall rise to Thee
Glad hymns of praise from land and sea.

Church music for the 4th

There is some controversy over what music is appropriate to sing in church on the 4th of July in the United States. I have known clergy who loath any patriotic music on that day, and of course there are those for whom God and Country are almost interchangable.

Adoremus, the Society for Renewal of the Sacred Liturgy suggests what it calls "The National Hymn"--God of Our Fathers. Played properly, with all the flourishes, it is a moving and appropriate song for this time of year.

I also like Eternal Father, Strong to Save, otherwise known as The Navy Hymn. It was a favorite of FDR's.

Eternal Father, strong to save,
Whose arm hath bound the restless wave,
Who biddest the mighty ocean deep
Its own appointed limits keep;
Oh, hear us when we cry to Thee,
For those in peril on the sea!

O Christ! Whose voice the waters heard
And hushed their raging at Thy Word,
Who walked on the foaming deep,
And calm amidst its rage didst sleep;
Oh, hear us when we cry to Thee,
For those in peril on the sea!

Most Holy Spirit! Who didst brood
Upon the chaos dark and rude,
And bid its angry tumult cease,
And give, for wild confusion, peace;
Oh, hear us when we cry to Thee,
For those in peril on the sea!

O Trinity of love and power!
Our family shield in danger’s hour;
From rock and tempest, fire and foe,
Protect us wheresoever we go;
Thus evermore shall rise to Thee
Glad hymns of praise from land and sea.

The real thing!

My mom is elderly and has dementia. Yesterday I was getting ready to go to the grocery store for her. She said, since it was a holiday (Independence Day is Monday) that I should pick up some "Pepsicola" for her. "Make sure its the real thing" she tells me. I told her, "Mom, It's Coke that's the 'Real thing'!" ;)

(Lyrics from the original 1969 commercial)
I'd like to buy the world a home and furnish it with love
grow apple trees and honey bees and snow white turtle doves.
I'd like to teach the world to sing in perfect harmony
I'd like to buy the world a coke and keep it company.
It's the real thing.
I'd like to teach the world to sing in perfect harmony.
I'd like to buy the world a coke and keep it company.
It's the real thing.
Coke is what the world wants today. Coke Cola
It's the real thing
Coke is what the world wants today. Coke Cola
It's the real thing

The real thing!

My mom is elderly and has dementia. Yesterday I was getting ready to go to the grocery store for her. She said, since it was a holiday (Independence Day is Monday) that I should pick up some "Pepsicola" for her. "Make sure its the real thing" she tells me. I told her, "Mom, It's Coke that's the 'Real thing'!" ;)

(Lyrics from the original 1969 commercial)
I'd like to buy the world a home and furnish it with love
grow apple trees and honey bees and snow white turtle doves.
I'd like to teach the world to sing in perfect harmony
I'd like to buy the world a coke and keep it company.
It's the real thing.
I'd like to teach the world to sing in perfect harmony.
I'd like to buy the world a coke and keep it company.
It's the real thing.
Coke is what the world wants today. Coke Cola
It's the real thing
Coke is what the world wants today. Coke Cola
It's the real thing