tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-144691712024-03-13T09:53:13.770-07:00Seeds & SensibilityMy blog...seeds of thoughts, ideas to explore, and responses to life because of the joy in good words, a desire for community, and the value of sensibility. As defined in the dictionary, a seed is a beginning or source, and sensibility is emotional responsiveness.
"It is amazing that such a beautiful thing starts with just a seed." - UnknownCindi Pete'http://www.blogger.com/profile/10659105948697131594noreply@blogger.comBlogger162125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14469171.post-57303248437290482282014-03-27T11:44:00.001-07:002014-03-27T11:44:51.485-07:00Dear Mr. Strearns, World VisionDear Mr. Stearns,<br />
<br />
I was moved deeply by the boldness in the recent statement of World Vision's willingness to support fidelity in marriage and abstinence outside marriage and the opportunity for gay Christians to work there in the future. I regret the reversal, but understand these are complicated times.<br />
<br />
I am a straight evangelical, for what it is worth. I wanted to voice my support in the storm of outrage. Thank you, Mr. Stearns, for the work happening in your heart for others. Please hold your head high and continue to influence others for just living and loving others. You have my appreciation.<br />
<br />
I acknowledge there is so much more to all this than I will ever know or understand from the spiritual, theological, and business levels. In the meantime, I will keep it simple and say I'm proud to serve the Kingdom with you. You may never see this, but if I don't write, I've missed a chance to offer compassion to you in your journey with me.Cindi Pete'http://www.blogger.com/profile/10659105948697131594noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14469171.post-45479437653619139242014-03-07T15:40:00.000-08:002014-03-07T15:43:10.668-08:00A Prayer for the House of Representatives: Immigration Reform <style>
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I pray for your continued growth, understanding, and
strength to do what is right. I pray you have no regret when you look back on
this time in the future. I pray you don’t wish you’d done more for this cause
and for the people, because you did what was right now. I pray your heart and
your mind stay open to real truth, and that you filter your position with
compassion. I pray for your commitment to dignity for all, your value of the
family, your economic sensibilities. I pray you act now and pass a solid bill,
one bill, similar to the recent Senate Bill for Comprehensive Immigration
Reform. I pray we do not tire in encouraging you to move forward. I pray you
heed our call very soon.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MkoSZH9GXgM/UxpZeouvzCI/AAAAAAAAA7E/lyleWeAuOcc/s1600/3267415584_a0eea5c38e.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MkoSZH9GXgM/UxpZeouvzCI/AAAAAAAAA7E/lyleWeAuOcc/s1600/3267415584_a0eea5c38e.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
We need you to help us as we seek to reform a broken
immigration system that:</div>
<ul type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Respects the God-given dignity of every person</span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Protects the unity of the immediate family</span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Respects the rule of law</span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Guarantees secure national borders</span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Ensures fairness to taxpayers</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;"> </span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;">Establishes a path toward legal status and/or
citizenship for those who qualify and who wish to become permanent residents</span>
</li>
</ul>
Cindi Pete'http://www.blogger.com/profile/10659105948697131594noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14469171.post-70236367356350593322013-11-13T08:55:00.000-08:002013-11-13T08:55:09.327-08:00Signs It Is Christmas Time...or It's On Its Way!Just got my schedule for tech volunteer for Christmas Eve services, Dec. 23 and 24. Yahoo! I love helping at Christmas Eve church! Now I'm excited for Christmas. Evidently, my enthusiasm for that time of year is only slightly behind every retail establishment in America, judging from commercials and store displays. Oh, the irony of perspectives around the advent and celebration of the birth of Jesus, God's invitation to relationship. The spectrum between joy and delight in the sacred and cultural traditions all the way to the other end -- the dread, exhaustion, and pressure of expectations and fear of or realized disappointment on the other end. Truly an emotionally complicated time of year for us, unless we center ourselves in what matters most and embrace our own limits of time, money, and presence (not presents). Cindi Pete'http://www.blogger.com/profile/10659105948697131594noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14469171.post-12249403663222438142013-08-28T09:51:00.000-07:002013-08-28T09:51:14.964-07:00Are You A Liberal or Conservative?I was interested to watch this Prager University video (below). Some of my friends really appreciate Prager, and I want to be more familiar with his program and views to understand more about him and honor my friends. So I watched this video. I thought, "This could be really cool! A liberal or conservative test. Perfect. So simple. And he's trusted by so many people I value."<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.prageruniversity.com/Political-Science/Are-You-a-Liberal.html#.Uh4WTrwZ97c">http://www.prageruniversity.com/Political-Science/Are-You-a-Liberal.html#.Uh4WTrwZ97c </a><br />
<br />
After watching the nicely done video, I decided not to take the Liberal or Conservative test. Since, I do very poorly on multiple choice tests in general, I knew I would only be frustrated by being asked to "yes" or "no" the questions posed. I tend to be one of those test-takers who see various levels of reasoning, tend to complicate things by analyzing each answer, and I can usually see why each answer could be right. I was once told that I am more of a social worker than a cop, and I think I understood that comment at the time. I live in the gray area.<br />
<br />
It was interesting how Prager listed awesome adjectives to describe his opinion of how liberals would describe themselves and disparaging character blows to show a liberal's way to describe those others, the conservatives. There is major truth in that, but it is true for all sorts of groups of people, how they view themselves and their particular "others." Good guys and bad guys. Liberals can't claim that all to themselves. <br />
<br />
As I considered each of Mr. Prager's questions, I felt trapped by the choices being simply yes or no. That trapped feeling with some resentment happens to me when an issue is boiled down to a yes or no position, and I cannot choose. That's a personal problem I need to work through. That drives me crazy. You, too, right?<br />
<br />
Did you notice how the words chosen, the framing of the questions and the logical explanations that follow put a person on the wrong side of the tracks, if they'd answer no to the question? Those felt to me a little like <i>loaded questions</i>. A loaded question a logical fallacy technique defined as "asking a question that has a presumption built into it so that it can't be answered without appearing guilty."<br />
<br />
More than that, these were "black or white" questions. That is another logical fallacy technique, too<span style="font-size: small;">, defined as "<i><span style="font-weight: normal;">two alternatives stated as the only possibilities, when in fact more possibilities exist."</span></i></span><br />
<br />
Figuratively speaking, I live in Gray Heights. Not a real location, yet a neighborhood where I am most comfortable. And in that neighborhood, we do not have cul-de-sacs where you cannot drive through. So don't go all "yes or no" on me. Some things just cannot be black and white. We all know that. I even dislike that phrase, black and white, for its subtle racist tone to communicate wrong and right. Ugh. And don't load the questions, either. So, I will just take my toys and go home. But not yet.<br />
<br />
It is difficult for me to answer any of Mr. Prager's liberal test questions, if my choices are only yes or no or agree or disagree. These issues are NEVER that simple for me. I heard his reasons. That prompted more questions for me. And I wasn't a difficult child.<br />
<br />
Let me give you an example. Take the college and fire fighter admissions
standards question. Should we change the standards on hiring and
admissions for minorities? What was that? The answer is obviously no, <u><i>in a perfect world</i></u>
when everyone has equitable educational opportunities, like so many in
the race of power and privilege. Then, to me, that would be a legit
question that implies honoring all who have worked hard. Until then, we
have to watch these gatekeeper questions and make opportunities and
on-ramps, as I like to call them, more accessible to all children who
then have met the qualifications. Right now, minorities are often
under served in the K-12 educational system, even when it comes to just
simply getting to school safely, and those limits demand reform and even a resurrection. So, I guess I am not conservative on that one. <br />
<br />
Another example: Murderers should never be put to death. I love the use of the word "never." Complicated word. Muddies the question. If I was convinced the person sentenced to death was guilty and got a fair trail, I'd still struggle with capital punishment. But to answer yes to that question makes me sound like a bad guy, myself, when I am recognize other research and statistics on this issue.<br />
<br />
These questions are all cans of worms for me, and I don't like fishing.<br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sAHcttfRaOQ/Uh4qJ6EYGtI/AAAAAAAAA3k/HCsTLkG7jHs/s1600/condenaststore+cartoon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sAHcttfRaOQ/Uh4qJ6EYGtI/AAAAAAAAA3k/HCsTLkG7jHs/s400/condenaststore+cartoon.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Credit: condenaststore.com</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
And did I mention I'm trying to live my life in accordance with that old text commonly called the Sermon on the Mount? That doesn't smooth the issues road out for me at all. But it gives me a compass.<br />
<br />
According to Mr. Prager's assessment, I am not conservative. But that cannot automatically make me part of the "other," the liberals. Facebook has a relationship category where an option was "It's complicated." That should be my relationship to politics, too. If you were wondering.<br />
<br />
I don't have a label for my positions on political issues, I guess. I cannot pick a team. I cannot wear a fan jersey for either side, according to the line drawn by Mr. Prager. I'll have to go sit in the sky box, watch the game from above with a broad view of what's happening, watch the entire game and perhaps the season to see how more information helps my views evolve.<br />
<br />
That might make me the monkey-in-the middle. That might make me too chicken to choose. That might make me the dove of peace. Or just the ostrich with my head in the sand. And so often this labeling creates an elephant in the room where conversations become awkward and even non-existent.<br />
<br />
But I like the view from the sky box. I like the big picture. And I'll admit bias. I also like letting my hair go naturally gray, and perhaps that is symbolic for my views on many political issues. Or just a result of the madness of conscientious citizenship.<br />
<br />
So, if you or I can't answer simply "yes" or "no" to my title question, what category on the issues are we? So then what?<br />
<br />
And, yes, I mixed metaphors all over the place in this post because I wanted to create a feeling of how muddled this topic of conservative or liberal can get. Did you feel it? Yes or no, please. Or perhaps, in my case, yes AND no.<br />
<br />
To learn more about recognizing logical fallacy, I recommend this website: <a href="https://yourlogicalfallacyis.com/home">https://yourlogicalfallacyis.com/home</a>Cindi Pete'http://www.blogger.com/profile/10659105948697131594noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14469171.post-73581024677171716172013-07-12T09:52:00.000-07:002013-07-12T10:25:31.873-07:00Banking Profits in a Tough Economic TimeToday I read an article online from the New York Times. The headline read <i>JPMorgan Chase Quarterly Earnings Surge 31 Percent. </i>The article goes on to say that the credit (pun intended) goes to "strong gains in the bank's investment banking business, its credit card operations and its mortgage lending division, which is benefiting from steady improvements in the nation's housing markets." So, naturally, I have questions. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H-tpr8qfzxg/UeA6E8VTXrI/AAAAAAAAA18/O0DTjY34eOQ/s1600/jpmorganchase.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H-tpr8qfzxg/UeA6E8VTXrI/AAAAAAAAA18/O0DTjY34eOQ/s320/jpmorganchase.jpg" width="227" /></a></div>
<br />
The article also stated (my comments are in parentheses):<br />
<ul>
<li>Net earnings for second-quarter (three months): $6.5 billion.</li>
<li>Wall Street analysts expectations (a.k.a. crystal ball predictions): $5.47 billion</li>
<li>That is "on revenue of $24.84 billion."</li>
<li>Revenue was actually "$25 billion compared to $22 billion in the period a year earlier."</li>
</ul>
<div>
Where are my macroeconomics and microeconomics professors when I need them? All I have at this point is big questions, which include:</div>
<div>
<ol>
<li>The bank earned $6.5 billion in three-months. Wow! How did they do that? Where does that kind of money come from and where does it go and why are there any poverty issues in the world?, said the girl with the heart for justice. The article does go on with further explanation, but I'm not completely clear on the banking business. It is tricky for me to interpret what is hocus-pocus (my term) and what is legit. Thankfully, I have heroes like Elizabeth Warren and others watching with a strong grasp of the inner-workings.</li>
<li>Banks make money through lending well and interest. That is obviously the short version of this story. So has JPMorgan Chase built their house upon the shifting sand or on solid ground? Is that even a fair question? How does this impact our national economy and Gross Domestic Product? To quote one of the comments that followed the article, <i>"I'd submit, the percent of GDP made up of "financial services" is a much
more ominous symptom of an unbalanced, vulnerable economy." </i></li>
<li>There are many people in our country still struggling to meet debt obligations for credit, mortgages, student loans, etc. Many of us are still on a short financial leash. So what does $6.5 billion in earnings really mean? There is a disconnect there for me. How does the bank do so well from customers paying mortgages and credit card bills on time, which it states in the article? Is that all due to their mega-bank status? Is greed in operation? Another comment following the article mentioned her Chase account $35 monthly fee if she doesn't meet their requirements for a free account, and also stated there is a fee to transfer funds. [I did not substantiate these comments.]</li>
<li>The bank is down-sizing. So that kind of unfathomable earnings is not enough to sustain current costs of banking. Why not?</li>
<li>Interests rates are rising, so the banks earn more from that, but doesn't that mainly impact the consumer in the long run? How do bankers explain such grand profits? </li>
<li>They credit momentum in housing sales. Foreclosures still clutter the real estate market. Real estates agents are frequently paid in cash. Foreign money is moving through our economy, which is thought to be a good thing, and might be. What is the tipping point with that? What are the risks and benefits? Who is the big player in purchasing property? Where's the action -- commercial or residential?</li>
</ol>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7DO9HNnMUsQ/UeA6yxx02qI/AAAAAAAAA2E/hWQn5MmQA6g/s1600/foreclosure-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7DO9HNnMUsQ/UeA6yxx02qI/AAAAAAAAA2E/hWQn5MmQA6g/s320/foreclosure-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
I have more questions bubbling through my brain, but this is it for now. My gray matter is stretching out its supply and demand lessons and everything surrounding that. My mental capacities are dusting off some old knowledge to filter through my questions. I have watched <i>It's A Wonderful Life</i> many times (wink - as if that is a movie all about loans and banks), had an economics
minor in college, and I'm certified to teach economics at the high
school level. I should be stronger at quickly dissecting the ins and outs and
ups and downs of how a large bank makes this happen. However, that is a
slow bumpy road, and I'll need some time to think through and analyze
cause, effect, impact, and inspiration.<br />
<br />
Unfortunately, I may or may not get a chance to come back and expand this post. I may or may not give it much more thought. That is my biggest question of all. When so many of us haven't got the time to analyze and fight for accountability, and business moves at the speed of light on a grand scale, how can the consumer or citizen protect the common good? The <i>New York Times</i> article made me suspicious, though it appears to be such grand news. It is always good to ask questions. I just wish it didn't take so much time to reason through the complicated world of banking. I will read some other opinions and articles on the banking industry to expand my understanding.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pdLakrmG1fk/UeA6yzC7gPI/AAAAAAAAA2M/VePnepN-bZQ/s1600/chase-blink-credit-cards.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pdLakrmG1fk/UeA6yzC7gPI/AAAAAAAAA2M/VePnepN-bZQ/s1600/chase-blink-credit-cards.jpg" /></a></div>
</div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Link to the article and (the best part) people's comments: <a href="http://dealbook.nytimes.com/2013/07/12/jpmorgan-quarterly-earnings-surge-31-percent/">http://dealbook.nytimes.com/2013/07/12/jpmorgan-quarterly-earnings-surge-31-percent/</a><br />
<br />
And, by the way, "Wells Fargo, the nation's biggest mortgage lender and the #4 bank overall, is expected to see profits climb 12%," according to <a href="http://www.usatoday.com/story/money/business/2013/07/11/second-quarter-bank-earnings/2509117/">http://www.usatoday.com/story/money/business/2013/07/11/second-quarter-bank-earnings/2509117/ </a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Are you comfortable with those kinds of earnings from a major bank? Do you understand how that works in an economy that is struggling? Is there any mystery or misunderstanding in your opinion?</div>
Cindi Pete'http://www.blogger.com/profile/10659105948697131594noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14469171.post-89724813936680594962013-07-08T17:56:00.001-07:002013-07-08T17:57:32.085-07:00A Prayer for Congress & Compassionate Immigration Reform<style>
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</style> I originally wrote this prayer in November 2010, as my heart cried out to our active, benevolent God on behalf of the Dream act and immigrant students. I refreshed it a bit today and decided to post it once again. My heart aches as we wait on the Lord and on Congress. The House is currently tasked with moving forward, after the Senate passed S744. The House leaders are talking about steps they want to take that seem to miss the point, or at least potentially, intentionally slow down the process. I pray that the Lord will continue to move in the process and the people involved in this time. Let good immigrants come out from the shadows and continue to contribute in ways that make our country a better place. I pray for the pathway to citizenship that works on behalf of those who want to comply.<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Lord, we cry out on
behalf<br />
Of immigrants throughout our land.<span style="font-family: Times;"><br />
</span>Dispel the myths. Squelch the lies.<span style="font-family: Times;"><br />
</span>Move in the hearts of Americans. <span style="font-family: Times;"><br />
</span>Open eyes to the complexity.<span style="font-family: Times;"><br />
</span>Turn hearts to compassion.<span style="font-family: Times;"><br />
</span><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 8.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><br />
</span>Lord, I pray for progress.<span style="font-family: Times;"><br />
</span>We depend on you for change.<span style="font-family: Times;"><br />
</span>You, the creator of all mankind,<span style="font-family: Times;"><br />
</span>the author of dignity,<span style="font-family: Times;"><br />
</span>the source of love,<span style="font-family: Times;"><br />
</span>help us encourage others to truly see<span style="font-family: Times;"><br />
</span>the neighbor, the stranger, <span style="font-family: Times;"><br />
</span>the power of love over law.<span style="font-family: Times;"><br />
</span><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 8.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><br />
</span>Protect the activists and advocates. <span style="font-family: Times;"><br />
</span>Give them wisdom and strength.<span style="font-family: Times;"><br />
</span>Grant them access to decision makers.<span style="font-family: Times;"><br />
</span>Bless them with love for those who disagree,<span style="font-family: Times;"><br />
</span>And calm those <span style="font-family: Times;"><br />
</span>who divide and destroy.<span style="font-family: Times;"><br />
</span><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 8.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><br />
</span>Help us be patient in the waiting,<span style="font-family: Times;"><br />
</span>Focused on the value,<span style="font-family: Times;"><br />
</span>Kind in our approach, <span style="font-family: Times;"><br />
</span>As we make others aware, <span style="font-family: Times;"><br />
</span>Challenge others to change,<span style="font-family: Times;"><br />
</span>And invite the country to<span style="font-family: Times;"><br />
</span>A renewed perspective, an<span style="font-family: Times;"><br />
</span>American foundational truth.<span style="font-family: Times;"><br />
</span><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 8.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><br />
</span>Please bring reform that keeps families together,<span style="font-family: Times;"><br />
</span>Provides a reasonable path to citizenship.<span style="font-family: Times;"><br />
</span>Grant grace to the good workers.<span style="font-family: Times;"><br />
</span>And most of all, Lord,<span style="font-family: Times;"><br />
</span>Please lead Congress<span style="font-family: Times;"><br />
</span>To take action on behalf of our <span style="font-family: Times;"><br />
</span>Immigrants and our country.<span style="font-family: Times;"><br />
</span><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: 8.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><br />
</span>We do not know how You will act.<span style="font-family: Times;"><br />
</span>We come expectantly.<span style="font-family: Times;"><br />
</span>This is the day.<span style="font-family: Times;"><br />
</span>This is the time.<span style="font-family: Times;"><br />
</span>We, the church, must walk on,<span style="font-family: Times;"><br />
</span>seeking You,<span style="font-family: Times;"><br />
</span>To move mightily for justice.</div>
Cindi Pete'http://www.blogger.com/profile/10659105948697131594noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14469171.post-9951756334543098712013-06-23T18:16:00.001-07:002013-06-23T18:16:37.183-07:00We Wait...Immigration ReformThis morning in my local community gathering, more formally called church, we sang a song, made popular by Hillsong, called "You'll Come." I paused to close my eyes and pray again for compassionate immigration reform which is closer than ever before, yet so complicated. The words of the song hit me harder than usual. The lyrics became my prayer, my pleading for our broken immigration system of laws and practices to leap forward on behalf of dignity for all, our economy, and protecting what we stand for as a country. I will not use this post to be more specific. I simply wanted to log the lyrics as my heart's cry as the Congress considers legislation on this issue. So, we wait upon the Lord. And we call and write Congress.<br />
<br />
Chains be broken<br />
Lives be healed<br />
Eyes be opened<br />
Christ is revealed<br />
<br />
I have decided<br />
I have resolved<br />
To wait upon You, Lord<br />
<br />
My rock and redeemer<br />
Shield and reward<br />
I'll wait upon You, Lord<br />
<br />
As surely as the sun will rise<br />
You'll come to us<br />
Certain as the dawn appears<br />
<br />
You'll come<br />
Let Your glory fall as You respond to us<br />
Spirit rain<br />
Flood into our thirsty hearts again<br />
You'll come, You'll come<br />
<br />
We are not shaken<br />
We are not moved<br />
We wait upon You, Lord<br />
<br />
Mighty deliverer<br />
Triumph and truth<br />
We wait upon You, Lord<br />
<br />
As surely as the sun will rise<br />
You'll come to us<br />
Certain as Your word endures<br />
<br />
You'll come<br />
Let Your glory fall as You respond to us<br />
Spirit rain<br />
Flood into our thirsty hearts again<br />
You'll come, You'll come<br />
<br />
Chains be broken<br />
Lives be healed<br />
Eyes be opened<br />
Christ is revealed
Cindi Pete'http://www.blogger.com/profile/10659105948697131594noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14469171.post-47119076913938559942013-05-29T09:28:00.002-07:002013-05-29T09:31:49.865-07:00Leaders, Criticism, Respect, and PerspectiveI am learning to speak respectfully of leaders. I am learning to understand that I don't know all the facts and behind-the-scenes political power plays in any social organization (government, churches, schools, etc.), circumstances, and counsel in a leader's decision. I am learning to withhold criticizing leaders publicly, but choose to think critically and be outspoken about issues and policy. I am learning that I rarely have the background perspective, insight, nor full picture to impugn leaders with motives for what they do. So often, quiet compromise must direct decisions, consensus, in matters at higher levels. A leader perhaps may have been coerced, forced, or simply chosen to take a certain action to prevent another that was more bleak.<br />
<br />
I served a year as an administrator at a local middle school. I learned in that year how prideful I'd been in years prior, as a teacher, in judging and criticizing leaders from my limited perspective foxhole or opinion fort. I rarely understood the full ramifications of a situation, yet spoke as if I was wiser. It makes me think of when a child criticizes a parent's parenting skills, as if they have the full view on life. Innocent arrogance.<br />
<br />
I'm learning to hold back on negative comments towards a person in an electronic or published format, and practice speech and writing that honors the human dignity of leaders. Or I can simply remain quiet. Yet I still retain the right to disagree on decisions, and value accountability. I release my unrealistic demands on them to include me in every situation to help me completely understand motives and process, and I continue to practice patience. There is a fine line.<br />
<br />
As a believer, I am accountable for my words regarding leaders and all people before the Lord. If I truly desire to honor Him and those created in His image, I feel strongly that speaking in a way that contributes to vilification of leaders, though their actions may be detestable, rips a hole in my theology that God is all-powerful and seeks to redeem and restore all humans and human systems.<br />
<br />
I am reminded that I don't know everything, and often I don't know much. I can continue to learn, create conversations and inquiry, find friends that hold other views, and stick to tasks where I can influence change, without looking back with regret on things I said about people in print and in public. Is there anyone who doesn't realize there are at least two sides to every story? Why are we so quick to blast a leader as if he or she made the choice in isolation with our harm as the goal? That seems like naive small-minded thinking.<br />
<br />
How do you speak of others when they make decisions you do not agree with?Cindi Pete'http://www.blogger.com/profile/10659105948697131594noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14469171.post-14580698225397114612013-04-13T09:15:00.003-07:002013-04-13T09:15:39.761-07:00Rufina Amaya Continues to Inspire, a Role She Did Not Choose<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img height="150" id="irc_mi" src="http://farm1.static.flickr.com/63/201525471_65602747cc.jpg?v=0" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 14px;" width="200" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Photo Credit: <i>Tim's El Salvador Blog</i></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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</div>
<br />
Last night, I heard a portion of a story. As we know, story is powerful, and each of us has at least one to share that will impact listeners. Rufina Amaya, of El Salvador, was a survivor of an unfathomable tragedy during a civil war. Her one voice later bravely brought truth and redemption. I am deeply moved and so curious about her and the hours that ripped her life to pieces, only to be stitched back together in a way that over time brought light to a dark time. Somehow. Courage, almost crushed, inspires.<br />
<br />Cindi Pete'http://www.blogger.com/profile/10659105948697131594noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14469171.post-2099865256892635582013-02-12T20:50:00.002-08:002013-02-12T20:50:43.727-08:00Gund Control Pun Fun<span class="fbPhotosPhotoCaption" data-ft="{"type":45}" id="fbPhotoSnowliftCaption" tabindex="0"><span class="hasCaption">I'd
like to say I'm against Gund control. I think I should be able to own
as many Gunds as I want. I think the right to bear arms is awesome.
Nothing is cuter than bear arms. Except the whole bear. </span></span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-D1xe6xvxE2c/URsbhXVXmqI/AAAAAAAAAv0/PDSzgWzNlQw/s1600/Gund+Bear.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-D1xe6xvxE2c/URsbhXVXmqI/AAAAAAAAAv0/PDSzgWzNlQw/s320/Gund+Bear.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<span class="fbPhotosPhotoCaption" data-ft="{"type":45}" id="fbPhotoSnowliftCaption" tabindex="0"><span class="hasCaption">I "gotta get a
Gund." Where do I start my background check? And what about a nice
background plaid? <a href="http://shop.gund.com/c/gund_bears"><span>http://shop.gund.com/c/</span></a><wbr></wbr><a href="http://shop.gund.com/c/gund_bears"><span class="word_break"></span>gund_bears</a> </span></span>Cindi Pete'http://www.blogger.com/profile/10659105948697131594noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14469171.post-30307498229519496412012-10-22T10:23:00.000-07:002012-10-22T10:23:45.539-07:00Taxes, Trust, Generosity, & SimplicityTaxes. These California props we have to vote on in a few weeks that will result in having to pitch in via more taxes from a variety of directions are challenging, when so many really have nothing to spare. Do I have enough? Yes, in the simplest sense. Are my needs met? Day by day. Can I spare more to help out for the greater good? Probably, and I do want to be generous as I follow Christ.<br />
<br />
Then there is the other side...can we as a state and a country get to a place where trust is restored in our leaders and the choices they make with our limited financial and natural resources? The citizen's well is running dry. We cannot keep digging deeper into our empty pockets. My health care went up $100 a month this year, so we've already been pinched. Our local school district needs a bond approved to borrow $55 million, which will impact property tax for how many years? We don't have kids, so we did not take advantage of the tax-funded local schools. But I am happy to say the kids in my neighborhood did get an education, for which I am happy to have contributed. But what do we do when they need money the next time?<br />
<br />
If we refuse to pay more in taxes with our votes because we don't trust leaders or just because we cannot make ends meet now, what are the consequences of that? Do our roads and bridges and school buildings collapse or does government spending slow down and we struggle to get to where we can live within our means -- and do with less as a state? All that to say, I'm a little short on insight and answers right now. God help us. Tough lessons ahead. More of them.<br />
<br />
Besides all that, balancing a government budget at the state level or the federal level cannot be truly paralleled to balancing a family budget. So that leaves me out of pretending to understand the intricacies of it all at those levels. Well, I guess I'll just go shopping, and support our consumer economy. Ha! That's the big problem, too.<br />
<br />
With a consumer based economy, if we live within our means and back off on shopping/consuming, our economy will be hurt. Consumer debt is a huge burden in the US. Living within my means is a great, practical, and rewarding idea. But not for the US economy. Neither candidate has directly spelled that out for me as they talk about the economy and jobs. If we have to buy to survive or thrive as a national economy, then what? I'd love to hear more about shifting the economy to a more stable foundation, but I don't know what that would be. Someone would have to sell me on the ideas. Ha. Sell. There's that consumer concept again.<br />
<br />
So the tensions...taxes and trust...generosity with others and living within your means...living simply in a consumer-driven economy. These are a balancing act. Learning to live without this or that keeps me learning to live within my means. Generous simplicity looks so different from the inside. Again, I don't know what to do when asked to pay more in various taxes to support critical needs in a time of obvious waste. Sigh. Time to go make a cup of tea and relax. Tea...reminds me of the Boston Tea Party, another historic moment in non-compliance with taxation. I guess these problems are not original to us.Cindi Pete'http://www.blogger.com/profile/10659105948697131594noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14469171.post-16072483342622672342012-10-08T20:47:00.001-07:002012-10-08T20:47:11.542-07:00A Curious ResourceTime is a curious resource.<br />
Someone I know is wishing for time to pass quickly so she can be married.<br />
Someone is wishing for the baby to arrive on time.<br />
Someone is wishing for the election to be over.<br />
Someone is wishing for time to go slowly so friends can be together longer.<br />
Someone is wishing for time to go slowly so her babies' childhoods linger.<br />
Someone needs more time with a loved one.<br />
Someone needs more time to study for a test.<br />
Someone just needs more time to think about something.<br />
We each have 24 hours.<br />
Sometimes it drags.<br />
Sometimes it moves too fast.<br />
Time is a curious resource.<br />
Sometimes I waste it.<br />
Sometimes I spend it.<br />
Sometimes I just try to be present in the moment.<br />
Time flies.<br />
Time seems to stand still.<br />
Time is a curious resource. Cindi Pete'http://www.blogger.com/profile/10659105948697131594noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14469171.post-348218504601103682012-06-11T08:08:00.003-07:002012-06-11T08:08:34.487-07:00Fear and GraceA quote posted on Facebook by friend Robert Chao Romero stated, "<span style="font-size: small;"><span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}">When we fear our life circumstances it's like telling God "You are not enough." Rev. Albert Tate (Paraphrase)</span></span><br />
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I experienced <b>fear </b>in bold font the past several years, off and on, possibly due to financial struggle or just a stage of life. That statement is so true for me.<br />
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To go further, the feelings of fear are real and must be acknowledged, a place to begin a scavenger hunt to search for and become more alert to God's grace. Disguised in life's difficult circumstances, God remains true. His strength, support, and goodness may be whispered or at times shouted, hidden in ways only noticed upon looking back, or shining in details that provide a way, so one can make it through the moment, the day...living in an awareness that God is enough. And awareness I never really was enough, never really had the control I thought I had, and that is OK.<br />
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Note: I've been learning these lessons on God's grace, and the book <i>One Thousand Gifts</i> helped crystallize it this past year.</span></div>Cindi Pete'http://www.blogger.com/profile/10659105948697131594noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14469171.post-76547310076620050592012-05-25T17:43:00.002-07:002012-05-25T17:43:57.014-07:00Election Thoughts and a NYTimes Opinion EssayI recently read an opinion in the New York Times titled <i>Do As I Do, Not As I Say</i>. It starts like this: "<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_329416356"><i>http://campaignstops.blogs.nytimes.com/2012/05/06/do-as-i-do-not-as-i-say/?goback=.gde_96472_member_113383334</i></a><br />
<i><a href="http://campaignstops.blogs.nytimes.com/2012/05/06/do-as-i-do-not-as-i-say/?goback=.gde_96472_member_113383334"> </a></i><br />
<i>IT’S election season, and once again Democrats are flummoxed by
evangelical voters. They think that 'those people' vote against their
own self-interest. They cannot believe that same-sex marriage matters so
much to so many people. They don’t get why Obamacare is controversial.
To them, evangelicals don’t make sense. That’s because evangelicals and secular liberals (the most puzzled
Democrats) think about life — and therefore politics — in such utterly
different ways."</i><br />
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Here is my response:<br />
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I enjoyed this view and it was well expressed. I am an evangelical, a
"white" female, and in my late 50's. I am also a registered voter as an
Independent.<br /><br />I appreciate it when others do not generalize
evangelicals. I've noticed more often than not evangelicals are spoken
of as in one political camp. There is another group of us, as evidenced
by your statement "back in 2008, a quarter of white evangelicals voted
for Mr. Obama." Not all evangelicals rally in predictable ways. Thank
you for noting that here.<br /><br />It would have also been interesting to
compare your observations of evangelicals by urban and suburban/rural
subgroups. That may have brought a more interesting perspective. I have
found city evangelicals tend to lean towards a candidate that is a
Democrat. I would also enjoy your evangelical observations for different
levels of education. That is another subgroup split where evangelicals
might be divided on presidential choice. <br /><br />I appreciated your
paragraph that begins "If Democrats want to reach more evangelical
voters...." Those statements are part of why I voted for a Dem president
in recent elections. I think you make a good point. I do hear some of
the language you suggest. <br /><br />I do think deeply about issues and the
role of government within my worldview. I find a better fit usually
with the Democratic platform on election day. However, that being said, I
realize no candidate can truly deliver on promises because of how the
system functions (or not).Cindi Pete'http://www.blogger.com/profile/10659105948697131594noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14469171.post-32835065466022444812012-05-09T17:52:00.002-07:002012-05-09T17:52:52.355-07:00When Sound Bites Make Me Sizzle...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-z6SV7OA-nD0/T6sRWvxk09I/AAAAAAAAAog/j0rLbz26O-Q/s1600/Keep+Calm+-+Consider+Context.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-z6SV7OA-nD0/T6sRWvxk09I/AAAAAAAAAog/j0rLbz26O-Q/s320/Keep+Calm+-+Consider+Context.jpg" width="254" /></a></div>
<br />Cindi Pete'http://www.blogger.com/profile/10659105948697131594noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14469171.post-68899232000791232442012-02-20T17:41:00.000-08:002012-02-20T17:41:00.869-08:00Disagreement or Character Attack?Political disagreement can be just that...disagreement. A difference of views, invitation to discussion and conversation, and an opportunity to gather more information to evaluate positions and inform views. Political disagreement does not need to automatically trigger judgment of character and faith. <br />
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When someone makes comments in public about someone's faith and or character based on the fact that there is a disagreement, that can result in judging without full insight, also known as prejudice, can feed arrogance, and builds walls between "us and them." This in not a life giving situation. It is not an invitation to grace. <br />
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We can and will disagree, and we can still find a way love our neighbor with whom we may disagree. We can model respect and offer dignity to the person. People do this all the time, but it tends to be quieter. We find common ground and move forward. <br />
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It's when in disagreement, I take power and speak badly about someone's character or faith that I believe I dis-grace God's call on my life. God values all life on the journey of redemption. <br />
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Character and faith jabs for political gain are just cruel tools in a shallow and manipulative campaign tool box. I do disagree with some of the positions of current politicians and the current president. I will not brand the character or faith. However, I will use the positions to determine who I will side with. You can still be a good person with a strong faith and line up opposite me on many issues. Many do. One does not discount the other. Do not discount me. I will not discount you in this context. I will learn about you and from you.Cindi Pete'http://www.blogger.com/profile/10659105948697131594noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14469171.post-31308657981750947522012-02-11T13:04:00.000-08:002012-02-11T13:05:09.301-08:00Wisdom Worth Noting - Abandon & Abide<strong>Abandon the worries… and Abide in the Word. </strong><br />
<strong>Abandon the fears… and Abide in the Father.</strong><br />
<strong>Abandon the hurts… and Abide in His heart.</strong><br />
<strong>Abandon the cares… <em>because Christ will never abandon you.</em></strong><br />
It’s what I self-preach again and again to the fearful sinner who is me:<strong><em> Abandon and Abide</em></strong>.<br />
<br />
From a favorite blog's post: <a href="http://www.aholyexperience.com/2012/02/best-advice-for-hard-times/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+HolyExperience+%28Holy+Experience%29">A Holy Experience</a><br />
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The blogger, Ann Voskamp, also included this song:<br />
<a href="http://youtu.be/54ALmQZ_NiA">http://youtu.be/54ALmQZ_NiA</a>Cindi Pete'http://www.blogger.com/profile/10659105948697131594noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14469171.post-48271135936992254312012-02-10T10:04:00.000-08:002012-02-10T10:05:30.662-08:00That Lovely Slippery SlopeMy friend on my faith journey recommended this blog post to me. He thought I might like it. I did. Very much.<br />
<br />
"They Were Right About the Slippery Slop (and Wrong)"<br />
<a href="http://rachelheldevans.com/they-were-right-about-slippery-slope?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+RachelHeldEvans+%28Rachel+Held+Evans+-+Blog%29&utm_content=Google+Reader">http://rachelheldevans.com/they-were-right-about-slippery-slope?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+RachelHeldEvans+%28Rachel+Held+Evans+-+Blog%29&utm_content=Google+Reader</a>Cindi Pete'http://www.blogger.com/profile/10659105948697131594noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14469171.post-63606472549653810432012-02-05T09:26:00.000-08:002012-02-05T09:26:58.947-08:00Jesus Is a Liberal Democrat VideoFood for thought...find the truth in the comedy from December 2010. And then how will I live differently in response to truth?<br />
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<embed allowfullscreen="true" allowscriptaccess="always" base="." flashvars="" height="288" src="http://media.mtvnservices.com/mgid:cms:video:colbertnation.com:368914" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="512"></embed><br />
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: 12px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 4px; padding: 4px; text-align: left;">
<b>The Colbert Report</b> <br />Get More: <a href="http://www.colbertnation.com/full-episodes/">Colbert Report Full Episodes</a>,<a href="http://www.indecisionforever.com/">Political Humor & Satire Blog</a>,<a href="http://www.colbertnation.com/video">Video Archive</a> </div>
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</div>Cindi Pete'http://www.blogger.com/profile/10659105948697131594noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14469171.post-7641889782042573452012-02-01T10:16:00.000-08:002012-02-01T20:20:24.992-08:00Violent Loss & Suffering/Sticky, Stinky EnduranceMy friend is in the one-year anniversary of a tragedy involving the reckless homicide of a friend/colleague. As I think of her and talk with her, some new reflections of my own experience with a tragic loss oozed through and spilled into my mind. On any given day, if you have survived a violent loss, images and thoughts and emotions collide to create chaos or new strength. Heart break is not pretty, but it can become the art of the honest heart.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-otDRfRvimS0/TyoBRiNsOUI/AAAAAAAAAlQ/ifoiJ98RSv8/s1600/stained-glass.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="216" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-otDRfRvimS0/TyoBRiNsOUI/AAAAAAAAAlQ/ifoiJ98RSv8/s320/stained-glass.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Photo credit: http://spitshinedsoul.wordpress.com/tag/dream-2/</span></div>
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There is the immediate crisis that follows the actual event and managing to get through that minute-by-minute, but often the pain lingers and the bruises to our souls get bumped with the calendar...a birthday, a year after, and so on. We wish for some relief and work toward acceptance and a return to normal. But normal is now very different. Sometimes the goal is just to hang in there and remember we are not alone, though our personal journey to healing will be our own.<br />
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I heard myself say just the other day in an appropriate context, "One of my students was murdered in 1996...." People gasped. I paused and tried to connect to the violence of it all, the bruise that still lingers to each of our souls that knew her. Still felt surreal and my mind tells me I must have made it up. Awkward.<br />
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After all these years. Still no acceptance. I think that is the way it is and I think there is actually some wholeness in that ugly. If I were to truly accept it, I'd be giving up on a world the way it should be, with people treating each other safely. Thy Kingdom come. Thy will be done.<br />
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What happened to my student and my friend's colleague is NOT OK. It never will be. We live in that tension. That is what I must learn to accept. Like we are tuned between radio stations, sometimes totally annoying, sometimes I can block it out, sometimes I can accommodate the tension, and sometimes I am able to tune in to the beauty that is still with us.<br />
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I realize now that violent crime rips a hole in the peace of mind of any who witness and/or cared about the victims. An act against community. Do we forgive? Do we forget? Who has answers to these questions? I think there are moments of both that flash by and become stronger, like clapping for Tinkerbell to grow stronger. But the broader questions for me are always, "What now?" and since life will never be what I knew to be normal, "What good will come out of the darkness that includes me?"<br />
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And it will come. Good will come from this. We will be different, just like seeds die in the ground before forcing their way back into the sunshine to bloom in a new place after they were pooped out by some bird. God is at work. Love wins. God loves us. God is here. God is enough. I truly believe those concepts to be true and broader than I can conceive. I cling. Hope invites. Again.<br />
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Three resources that immensely continue to impact my journey in difficult, painful times of loss include:<br />
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<b><i>Drops Like Stars</i> </b>-- a book and a DVD (I was blessed to see this in person):<br />
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" 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<a href="https://www.google.com/url?url=http://www.youtube.com/watch%3Fv%3D48sKSxOiexo&rct=j&sa=X&ei=knQpT6_AB8TaiQKVkdStCg&ved=0CEwQuAIwBA&q=drops+like+stars&usg=AFQjCNEqwbwdpKHkQmaFCUZwOhmhmw1t8A" id="v16414224584450145050" style="text-decoration: none;">
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<cite class="kv"></cite><span class="st"><span class="f"><span class="nobr"></span><span class="nobr"></span><span class="nobr"></span></span><br /> </span><br />
<span class="st">"We plot, we plan, we assume things are going to go a certain way and then they don't and we find ourselves <b>..."</b></span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IlM04kV_s7Q/Tyl2xM37OUI/AAAAAAAAAkw/yUo236QRjfk/s1600/DLS-Hardcover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IlM04kV_s7Q/Tyl2xM37OUI/AAAAAAAAAkw/yUo236QRjfk/s200/DLS-Hardcover.jpg" width="170" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Drops-Like-Stars-Creativity-Suffering/dp/0310275032">http://www.amazon.com/Drops-Like-Stars-Creativity-Suffering/dp/0310275032</a><br />
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And another book, <i>One Thousand Gifts</i> by Ann Voskamp<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/One-Thousand-Gifts-Fully-Right/dp/0310321913">http://www.amazon.com/One-Thousand-Gifts-Fully-Right/dp/0310321913</a><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XX35mE98xI0/Tyl4K_J0PJI/AAAAAAAAAk4/zXbONd-w58k/s1600/One_Thousand_GIfts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XX35mE98xI0/Tyl4K_J0PJI/AAAAAAAAAk4/zXbONd-w58k/s200/One_Thousand_GIfts.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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And a movie, <i>Lars and the Real Girl</i>, quirky, odd, and uncomfortable at times. It portrays loving community responding to a tragic loss for the main character. I found it simple, profound, and inspiring in leading me to just be with friends who have experienced suffering and/or loss. <br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-X3jd5OUgQBM/Tyl5LOzh7BI/AAAAAAAAAlA/zkqRoFI45eg/s1600/larsandtherealgirl_ijustine.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-X3jd5OUgQBM/Tyl5LOzh7BI/AAAAAAAAAlA/zkqRoFI45eg/s320/larsandtherealgirl_ijustine.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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In closing, we are in this together. If you are in a time of pain, suffering, grief, and/or loss, I pray you are well connected with a loving community like a small group at the local church or dear, committed friends and/or family. I also pray you watch carefully for hope to light the way a moment at a time, like a flickering candle in a dark room. And I pray that through this, through finding your "new normal," you will bring more to this world than was taken out.<br />
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Overall, knowing that Jesus died and rose again took on new meaning in all this for me. What is the eternal force in the world that is major evidence that God is? Love. What breaks the heart of love? Death. The separation from those we love. The love for those lost continues, but the separation breaks us. Jesus brought victory over death making it possible that love is not lost, and death is, well...in the brilliant words of Rossiter Worthington Raymond (1840-1918):<br />
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<i>"Life is eternal; and love is immortal; and death is only a horizon; and a horizon is nothing save the limit of our sight."</i><br />
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Dear reader, I do not know what suffering has crushed you. Perhaps even disappointment because expectations of how life was to look for you does not match your current reality, like your shoes, purse, and outfit so easily do. Hold on. Be patient. Grief does not follow my rules. Bummer.<br />
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I am learning to go hide in my "grace space." I run there to wait for help from God. Maybe you recognize your need for a time-out in your grace space place. I'm learning to recognize the symptoms of when I need to go sit in that emotional room and be quiet, which for me include when I'm feeling anger at others, fear of the future, guilt over the past, and anxiety. All related to my myth that I can control my life's circumstances in full, my "myth of control."<br />
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Dear reader, I do not know where you stand on who you trust to save you. Beyond circumstances, it is spiritual. We all believe in something. I could not survive without my faith in Christ and trust in God to be with me now and in the days to come. I hope you are with me in that journey. I hope you can find comfort today and recognize blessings that come in spite of suffering. Perhaps you can even find energy to go serve others on behalf of Christ's work and/or on behalf of the loved one lost. Generosity, if you can get to that point, brings good out of pain. And on days when that is just not possible, I pray that you sense an intangible God in those moments through tangible others around you, and the remaining beauty in life and nature.<br />
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<br />Cindi Pete'http://www.blogger.com/profile/10659105948697131594noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14469171.post-23178623575935281822011-11-18T12:10:00.001-08:002011-11-18T12:50:43.780-08:00A Holiday, the Homeless, & Hope<style>
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</style>Friday, November 11 - Veteran's Day and a day off from work...a great day. I woke at 4:00am to go five blocks from home. I'd volunteered with a city project to identify the homeless for possibly later accessing services and housing for the more vulnerable. It was part of a nationwide effort taking place in cities throughout the United States. One of our leaders mentioned how impressed he was with the diversity of our group: church groups, college students, high school students, social workers, business people, and neighbors. I felt glad to be part of that.<br />
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We went in teams of five, into the pre-dawn darkness, searched quietly through alleys and a park, in little coves tucked into buildings, and on benches, looking for our homeless neighbors. I was nervous at first, concerned about what I might encounter, both the heartache and the question of safety. We learned to spot earthly belongings hidden in bushes nearby, and find human-shaped lumps under blankets. We practiced a deeper dimension of respect for the least of these in our town.<br />
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We obeyed our training to never touch anyone to wake them, to never shine our flashlights in their faces, and to squat down to their level for conversation. We used our lights to illuminate our path, read our paperwork, and identify our faces to others. We would call out to the person to gently wake them, and ask if we could have their permission to take a survey and take their photo.<br />
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We sat on the cement together in several situations. We interviewed six people -- two couples and two singles, three women and three men. One refused to let us take her photo. That was OK. At times we laughed together because some had such humor in their circumstances. It was an odd, yet powerful moment to hear the laughter of a group of people newly connected and from such diverse circumstances. I felt happy. I learned about these people in my community.<br />
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We asked all the questions on this survey: social security number, height, weight, victim of violence on the streets, health condition and details, been to jail and/or prison, pets, how long they'd been homeless, how they make money, etc. It was very interesting. The data we collect will be dded to a national study and used to access services and possibly housing for the most vulnerable. The people we visited were articulate, sober, and engaging. Some of my stereotypes were shattered that day. We were back to volunteer central in two hours.<br />
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I felt connected to these six folks, though we'd just met. It was strange yet so humane. I walked away wishing I could come visit again from time to time and bring breakfast or pizza or wash their blankets, but I felt that ambition would probably fade once I returned to my routine. But I now drive through my city with different eyes and a bigger heart. I look carefully for the unseen living just beyond my view in this area. It felt like a dream to have time to hear a little of the stories of these fellow human beings.<br />
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That morning, it was my priority to shake the hand of each person we'd interviewed, look them in the eyes, and say their name as I said, "Nice to meet you." And I meant it. It was important to me because I think appropriate human touch is healing, no matter how insignificant. It was healing to me. I can't speak for the others. It was healing because I overcame my fear of these strangers, one at a time, after listening to their stories, and crafting some time in my life to care for them, even for just a moment. I will remember them. God bless you, Shawn & Tricia, Manual & Corrine, Bonnie, and Ector, a Vietnam vet.<br />
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On Veteran's Day, I served with others in my community to reach out to hidden people. In our current economic crisis, anyone can be homeless with a change in events and circumstances. I did not need to figure out if these folks were trouble to society, or evaluate if they deserved a break or not. I needed to figure out that they are human, too. I was moved. I am changed. These efforts in my life keep me aware of what really matters and keep my heart tender. These efforts keep the gospel fresh in my faith. All this, and it was barely 8:00am. Time for a nap and time to pause to reflect on the meaningful experience.<br />
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<br />Cindi Pete'http://www.blogger.com/profile/10659105948697131594noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14469171.post-72368016451728804682011-11-12T11:22:00.001-08:002011-11-12T11:26:14.985-08:00Practicing This PerspectiveThis is my current reference point. This is my motto for engaging others to consider my point of view on anything that may be different from theirs. I return the same respect to them. I've summed it up this way:<br />
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"Simple conversation. Gentle invitation. Sincere consideration."</div>
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- Cindi Peterson</div>
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This is a quiet and peaceful way to get along. Or at least worth a try. In these days of campaigning and issues that impact life in this great nation, as well as in all things spiritual, this is my focus in respecting my fellow man...and woman, of course. Hoping for the same in return.Cindi Pete'http://www.blogger.com/profile/10659105948697131594noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14469171.post-80740630318598210122011-11-07T08:49:00.000-08:002011-11-12T11:21:33.962-08:00Another Reality Worth UnderstandingI am an acquaintance of Carlos Delgado and he recommended this blog. I started by reading Chapter 1 today. I will learn from the writer. I am touched and softened by her truth. I am more compassionate from viewing through her lens. I married "late" - age 37. We will celebrate 20 years this next summer. I am brought to my knees by stories like hers, and aware again and again of the fragile side of marriage which so subtly frames the functional side. How do I guard the sacredness of the vows in a world that is all about the passion and not so skilled at the day-to-day of love? How do I protect the work between hearts in the demands of the day that can quietly destroy? I must ask this daily as I honor my husband and this spiritual connection to him in a sanctified relationship.<br />
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Today I read Chapter 1:<br />
<a href="http://christiangirlsguidetodivorce.wordpress.com/">http://christiangirlsguidetodivorce.wordpress.com</a>Cindi Pete'http://www.blogger.com/profile/10659105948697131594noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14469171.post-36288534364503042942011-10-18T07:50:00.001-07:002011-10-18T08:49:55.531-07:00Notice of Privacy Practices - A Satirical LookPrivacy. An interesting concept. I have curtains on my bathroom window for privacy. Medical information privacy could be an oxymoron.<br />
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I recently was handed an eleven page document titled Notice of Privacy Practices. This occurred when I checked in at my doctor appointment. It has happened before. However, this particular time I took time to read it. I found irony and some form of humor in my reading. I will highlight a few things in this post.<br />
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<u><b>WHO WILL FOLLOW THIS NOTICE</b></u><br />
<ol>
<li> Any health care professional authorized to enter information into your medical chart. </li>
</ol>
<ul><ul>
<li><i>That seems to make sense. Well, alright. </i></li>
</ul>
</ul>
<ol>
<li>All departments and offices of [insert physician group here].</li>
<ul>
<li><i>This is a big, big organization. Now it is getting a little sketchy -- the "privacy" part. </i></li>
</ul>
<li>Any member of a volunteer group we allow to help you while you are at [insert physician group here].</li>
<ul>
<li><i>Volunteers, really? Why? </i></li>
</ul>
<li>All employees, staff, and other personnel. </li>
</ol>
<ul><ul>
<li><i>OK, at this point, I'm thinking save ink and space and just say "Everyone" or "All" people who are connected to or have ever even driven by [insert physician group here].</i></li>
</ul>
</ul>
There's more. But first let me just say...I have to trust my personal medical information that is private to a flock of strangers that I may or may not trust? That's pushing it, knowing what we all know about human nature.<br />
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It continues on..."We are required by law to: make sure that medical information that identifies you is kept private." Ah. Too late, really. It seems more people can have privilege to my privacy than are on my annual Christmas letter list.<br />
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And now on to my favorite part:<br />
<b>HOW WE MAY USE AND DISCLOSE MEDICAL INFORMATION ABOUT YOU</b><br />
(There is some interesting stuff in this part that I did not know about. Privacy, really? Wait until you hear!)<br />
<ol>
<li><u>For Treatment </u>--<i> logical. Wouldn't you agree and hope so!</i></li>
<li><u>For Payment </u>-- <i>OK, that is probably fair more or less.</i></li>
<li><u>For Health Care Operations</u> -- <i>Maybe your thinking operations as in surgery. Wrong. Operations as in the office. Hmmm. If you aren't involved in treatment or billing the insurance company or me, what do you need with my "private" information? Statistics. Oh, sure. It goes on to say in this part, </i>"We may also disclose information to doctors, nurses, technicians, medical students and other personnel for learning and review purposes."<i> Shouldn't I get a stipend? I could bill them.</i></li>
<li><u>Appointment Reminders </u>-- <i>This probably works to my benefit.</i></li>
<li><u>Treatment Alternatives</u> -- <i>OK. To tell me about treatment alternative, but who is the medical information disclosed to? Me? I have to be included in my own medical privacy? What am I missing?</i></li>
<li><u>Health-Related Products and Services </u>-- t<i>o tell me about them. OK. So who is the info disclosed to? Not me, right? I already know my medically private issues? So who? Vendors? Ewe.</i></li>
<li><u>Individuals Involved in Your Care and Payment for Your Care</u> -- <i>of course.</i></li>
<li><u>Research</u> -- <i>oh, certainly. For the common good. Medical costs should be cheaper if you agree to help out with research using your private medical information. Wouldn't you agree?</i></li>
<li><u>As Required by Law</u> -- <i>so they are required to keep it private by law unless the law requires them to share? That is amusing. What is the point of privacy?</i></li>
<li><u>To Avert a Serious Threat to Health or Safety</u> -- <i>I am all in favor of this one. Especially for other people's medical information that might cause ME problems.</i></li>
<li><b>S</b><b>pecial Situations</b>: This is where it gets good. My two favorite exceptions to privacy are in this list. Can you guess? Which are yours?</li>
</ol>
<ul>
<li> Organ & Tissue Donation - <i>this is a good idea.</i></li>
<li>Military & Veterans - <i>I'm not a member of the military, so this doesn't apply.</i></li>
<li>Worker's Compensation - <i>This may help prevent corruption and fraud and get benefits to deserving people.</i></li>
<li>Public Health Risks - <i>there is wisdom in this.</i></li>
<li>Health Oversight Activities (agencies) - <i>sure, why not?</i></li>
<li>Lawsuits and Disputes - <i>welcome to our world.</i></li>
<li>Law Enforcement - <i>It's all connected.</i></li>
<li>Coroners, Medical Examiners and Funeral Directors - <i>why would I care then? </i></li>
<li>National Security and Intelligence Agencies - <i>Yikes! This is Big Brother watching, if you ask me. If I ever requested a list of who my info was released to and saw one of these agencies on my list, what would I think?</i></li>
<li>Protective Services for the President and Others - <i>Wow! I suppose it is important for the President's peeps to check me out to keep him safe.</i></li>
</ul>
So there you go! The not-private-at-all privacy practices. Worth the read. I had no idea. By the end of all these permissions to share, I don't feel my medical information is private at all. We live in complicated times. Stay healthy! Bye for now. I'm going on my walk. <br />
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<br />Cindi Pete'http://www.blogger.com/profile/10659105948697131594noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14469171.post-80958262276813526572011-10-16T11:43:00.000-07:002011-10-16T11:43:11.441-07:00Advent ThoughtsI love Christmas. I know. I know. Many don't share that joy. Especially in mid-October. That's OK. We can live in peace.<br />
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It takes everything I have to wait until November 1 to begin listening to Christmas music. I wait on behalf of those I live with who do not feel the urgency I feel to jump in to the beauty of the season, beginning with wonderful music. So I listen discreetly and with joy until December actually begins.<br />
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One month, the month of December, is just not enough time to engage in what I love about Christmas. I love the music, the lights, the quiet I find amidst the hustle and hysteria, the hope promised of God on earth and His return. <br />
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What I don't engage in so much is gift giving. The financial tension that has caused in years past and the frustration caused by not knowing what to get for someone sucked the life out of me. Shopping in frenzied crowds and surviving the fight with parking space sharks is deadening. <br />
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The deep reward of spending gift money on causes gives me joy. That is why I post this video today.<br />
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<a href="http://vimeo.com/worldrelief/advent">http://vimeo.com/worldrelief/advent</a><br />
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Advent is a magical season for me. Anticipation is powerful. It is never to early to remember a time of anticipation of Good News. These words renew that focus.<br />Cindi Pete'http://www.blogger.com/profile/10659105948697131594noreply@blogger.com0