As We Enter A New Year

We often greet each other with a “Happy New Year” but there are new years when it’s anything but happy — especially knowing that the coming year isn’t going to get any better. I believe we are in that scenario. I don’t know anyone who is optimistic about the months ahead. Let’s try to remember that even now, there is hope … there is always a silver lining somewhere.

It’s easy to be depressed. The global economy is down. There is inflation. There are wars in Ukraine, Gaza, the Red Sea, and there are threats of war in Asia. New viruses are spreading. Refugees have forced their way into countries by the millions. Crime is up. Drug use is up. There’s a self-focused Karen born every minute. It’s a real nightmare. If you’re a socialist/communist, I’d really want to hear why you think that way.

Did you hear that selfish Mark Zuckerberg and other one percenters are building multi-million dollar underground bunkers and stocking up on food? I don’t get it. Let’s say the rest of the world is wiped out, why would anyone want to live anymore? What exactly will the “last man breathing” win? Who will cheer and hand you your medal, Mark? What do you do for fun when you’re all by yourself? Who are you going to flaunt your wealth to? Your neighbor Bill Gates who lives in the next bunker?

I’m thankful there are people who have such a positive outlook that, come rain or shine, they always find something positive to say.

The Encouraging Captain
I remember a story my grade school classmate shared with me about a captain whose battle weary soldiers were so discouraged because they were low in supplies and had not had a bath in weeks. But, being the encourager that he was, the captain decided to give a little pep talk:

“Don’t be so discouraged men! I bring you GOOD NEWS and BAD NEWS!”

“What’s the good news captain?” they grumbled.

“The good news is: You will ALL have NEW UNDERWEAR!”

“Hurrah!!” They shouted! “Now what’s the bad news?”

“Okay, all of you — exchange underwear!”

In our desperation, even if we don’t exchange our underwear, we can surely laugh about it. TGIF people. I hope the New Year will treat you better than expected.

Raoul.

“But those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” — Isaiah 40:31

JOKE OF THE WEEK

Thanks to Martha of Covina, CA

Parting Shots

Thanks to Art of Sierra Madre. CA

I found these

The Traveling Boy

My good friend (and jokester) Terry and I came up with this.

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Blessings

I got a grateful phone call the other day. Rodger said he worked on a referral I had given him and was so excited and happy to be able to pay some of his bills. He was unusually upbeat and I shared his joy. And then he said something that I didn’t expect. He said “I’m giving you 20% commission for any referral you send my way.” To which I said, “No, this is God blessing you. Accept it all.”  He paused for a moment and continued to thank me.

If you know Rodger, he’s been having it rough for some time. He’s an honest, decent man but somehow people and circumstances have taken advantage of him. Few have treated him fairly. Most have said he did not meet their expectations. Compliments were few and far between. I’m guessing this is why he felt he needed to pay me, a good friend, for a kind deed. Dear God, take care of this beautiful man.

Did you grow up having to earn for every single reward? Sounds like many of us, huh? Many of us see strings attached to gifts. The give and take mentality has permeated society that when kindness is bestowed, we can’t even recognize it anymore. May I challenge you? Look around with a different lens. We are surrounded by so many blessings. I grew up with a weekly allowance worth 5 candies … that was enough then. What did you grow up with?

After counting all my blessings, for me, the most important blessing is the gift of salvation. You can’t buy it. You can’t earn it. It’s free. If you know what I’m talking about, you know you are blessed. If you don’t, I guess there’s a blessing waiting for you.

But this is just me.

TGIF people!

“Kindness is a gift everyone can afford to give.”
— Anonymous 

Joke of the Week

Thanks to Rodney of Manitoba, B.C. for sending this joke.

Thanks to Tom of Pasadena, CA who sent this newspaper clipping

Videos of the Week

Alexa for Seniors
Sent by Bruce of Kanub, Utah and Jeff of Pasadena, CA

Hey, I want one of these. I hope that I will still have a sense of humor when I reach that age.

WATCH VIDEO

Flying in Dubai
Sent by Tom of Pasadena, CA

A thrilling and dangerous exercise. One mistake and you’re done. High quality video.

WATCH VIDEO

Don’s Puns

From Don’s collection of puns

Heavy Thought of the Week

Sent by Rodney of Manitoba, B.C.

Parting Shots

Thanks to Garie of Makati, Philippines who shared this

Celebrating the Year of the pig:

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