tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-66669876451574899602024-02-06T23:26:13.409-06:00Coffee And TheePJ Paynehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15991425278976175596noreply@blogger.comBlogger138125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6666987645157489960.post-15793578822928791432019-10-10T10:30:00.002-05:002019-10-10T13:34:41.124-05:00Sunrise Coffee<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwyouQlN_0bcC7y9nCg4DhLchOebTe7qAQMeR6kQ_cJoMLshu1nwrzoFKheeXpjC-F97tdWGLm8hjDizxjbTHPRRg2lCPEkErYafPulhgXHOmBGrZsgJtYBgti9qHzvZiF1n8FgdVbi84/s1600/coffee-cup-window-ledge-sunrise.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="662" data-original-width="1000" height="263" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwyouQlN_0bcC7y9nCg4DhLchOebTe7qAQMeR6kQ_cJoMLshu1nwrzoFKheeXpjC-F97tdWGLm8hjDizxjbTHPRRg2lCPEkErYafPulhgXHOmBGrZsgJtYBgti9qHzvZiF1n8FgdVbi84/s400/coffee-cup-window-ledge-sunrise.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Don’t you just love early mornings? I do! I love it when it
feels as though the rest of the world is still fast asleep and you're the only
one who's awake. Everyone and everything feels unreal. Dreamlike. You kinda
forget about your problems because for now, it's just you, your brew, your
peace of mine, and your Lord. The world is indifferent, irrelevant… and then that
gorgeous sunrise. Breathtaking! These are moments you want to capture, hold
close and put in a box. Your keepsake moment!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
"Serenity in its simplest form."<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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You are inspired to do so many things at this time. Your
meditation takes you to a place of comfort, experiencing release and relief, emotionally.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You feel like the sky is the limit—you can
conquer ANYTHING! Is it the Coffee Fix? Oh, what a feeling! You are able to trouble-shoot anything
that is problematic. There is hope, optimism, anticipation, and 'great expectations.' You are Superwoman, Superman, and super-duper! Happiness glistens on
the horizon. All things are possible… at least in your mind.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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And then the sun becomes Completely visible and the door opens…<o:p></o:p></div>
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LIFE! </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Blessings,</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
PJ Payne<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />PJ Paynehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15991425278976175596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6666987645157489960.post-84280932982904281842019-09-12T12:26:00.003-05:002019-09-19T13:39:33.212-05:00Navigation<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXYjms00xZVccJL_DcolTqg69AFlRFvmjmynICjCAVfLjtPCB-YAO2ZZ0kR6S7v1rdvmbvIMSeKZm36FIHX97_6dS6gbnr8tn71uT9ZFn5NxayxNxS0hrY0nlBorojy4LL8sbVKuKTlOM/s1600/driving+Coffee.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="410" data-original-width="615" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXYjms00xZVccJL_DcolTqg69AFlRFvmjmynICjCAVfLjtPCB-YAO2ZZ0kR6S7v1rdvmbvIMSeKZm36FIHX97_6dS6gbnr8tn71uT9ZFn5NxayxNxS0hrY0nlBorojy4LL8sbVKuKTlOM/s400/driving+Coffee.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
As I drive and ride sometimes, I just exhale. I absorb beautiful surroundings. It's about feelings, auras, and states-of-mind. Although
some may not envision the beauty that I see, I see miracles! I behold something
and someone bigger than mere existence. Miracles of a new morning, a new day,
dewdrops on leaves, bursting sun, hustle and bustle of traffic, and so on… I
see and feel the blessing of just having a vehicle to ride in; even something
as simple as being able to see! So yes, I enjoy the ride.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Listen for a minute. You know, I’m not even consumed with
actually driving, but just liberty in mental capacity; subtly focusing on the
moment and not problems I can’t do anything about. How sweet is the taste of being
footloose and fancy-free! See, I’m not in control of my destiny, what’s in my
reach, in my hand, in my grasp, for that is His. Less we forget that God is in
control of everything!! Where we go, how we go, and all that we go through are
not really our decision. We think we have that control, but we don’t have a
clue. We don’t have a plan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
I recently listened to a message that pricked my spirit.
‘Our trials are fixed fights. All we have to do is turn it over to God.’ <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And then the speaker reminded us of<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"> 1 Peter 4: 12-13; think it not strange
concerning the fiery trial which is to try you… rejoice as partakers of Christ’s
suffering.</i> It’s about grace, suffering and giving God the glory. He has
already worked it out. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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I am convinced that many of my rides are about trials and
storms. In many of his sermons, our Pastor reminds us that storms are always
raging. We are either coming out of a storm, currently in a storm or about to
go into a storm. But God has the navigation under control because He has already
fixed it. All we need to do is ride the waves. Humanly, we are powerless, no
matter what we THINK we are able to do… it’s all about God.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
So find your pleasure. Find your peace. You will find
your freedom when you allow The Navigator.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
The Ride<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Seems I wanna ride<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Wanna ‘scape by-ways and hide<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Wanna, through highways, confide<o:p></o:p></div>
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Wanna spread my secret wide<o:p></o:p></div>
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Of my emotions, I’ll confess<o:p></o:p></div>
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Of my inner being, express<o:p></o:p></div>
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Of life’s storms, turmoil, and tests<o:p></o:p></div>
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Of how I cope and try my best<o:p></o:p></div>
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To keep at bay the insanity<o:p></o:p></div>
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To keep away the profanity<o:p></o:p></div>
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To know “this too shall pass”<o:p></o:p></div>
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To know freedom, alas<o:p></o:p></div>
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Just sit back and ride<o:p></o:p></div>
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Till dispersion is free, not frugal <o:p></o:p></div>
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Till destiny cannot be Googled<o:p></o:p></div>
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Till there’s room for my scruples<o:p></o:p></div>
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Till there’s peace.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>How do you do it?<o:p></o:p></div>
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“Seems I wanna just ride”<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Blessings,<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
PJ Payne<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />PJ Paynehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15991425278976175596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6666987645157489960.post-32299491594007189272019-08-15T08:47:00.000-05:002019-08-15T09:03:20.008-05:00Perfect AttendanceGrowing up I've always heard the term 'Experience is the
best teacher.' During those years, I didn't take that quote to
heart. When I surmised ‘teaching’ I automatically referenced it to school
or books. Sure, relatively teaching is about school and in my family we
were really focused on education. School was mandatory! I remember how we
would compete to see who could achieve the most perfect attendance awards. But
in this statement, the subject matter is ‘experience.’ It is the teacher in the
school of life.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwIAL-cDwfGLYxgphxZfSMJW9jvWlb0pO2lDhlzgyzbAr3ocEi5eCRHmKBTR-cJD5v8bdWBHo-r5xDVYi6xYL8ANcB4CAuDSLIKmvzeXJYM1yGLoy54O6Y-i9BvT2y8bxoZU5hgglA6wo/s1600/school+coffee_cups.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="508" data-original-width="640" height="317" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwIAL-cDwfGLYxgphxZfSMJW9jvWlb0pO2lDhlzgyzbAr3ocEi5eCRHmKBTR-cJD5v8bdWBHo-r5xDVYi6xYL8ANcB4CAuDSLIKmvzeXJYM1yGLoy54O6Y-i9BvT2y8bxoZU5hgglA6wo/s400/school+coffee_cups.png" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Those who knew me then recognized that I had a joyous,
happy, and excitable attitude about everything. I was dubbed Miss Positive. I
saw the glass half full, instead of half empty. Some seemed to think that
I didn’t have a worry in the world. Maybe it was because I was always there for
the other person. You know the type you can count on for a shoulder to cry on,
a listening ear, and a sounding board. And to boot, I was trustworthy and a
confidante. Sounds amazing, right? That was and still is my character, but “oh
the experiences” I’ve endured. Visibly I was the pillar of
strength. Deep down I HID. But, I had an escape!<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Let me give you a peek into my upbringing.<o:p></o:p></div>
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I had a STRONG single mom who took care of all six of her
children. From the outside, you didn’t see the struggle. Her statement to us
was “Never let’em see you sweat! Be steadfast and stand tall in what you
believe.” I understood that completely and carried it into my adulthood
and family. Yes, just like the next person, I had problems but just didn’t show
it. I didn’t carry everything on my sleeves. I didn't have a permanent print of
a frown on my forehead. It seemed I always wanted to portray a zest for life,
renowned strength, and the epitome of positivity. That was the person I wanted
to exude-- to be visible to my peers.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
But, deep inside<o:p></o:p></div>
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But, hidden within<o:p></o:p></div>
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But, to only my best friend<o:p></o:p></div>
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But, my bad experiences<o:p></o:p></div>
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But, to the only One<o:p></o:p></div>
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whom I can depend<o:p></o:p></div>
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But God<o:p></o:p></div>
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The key that unlocks the door<o:p></o:p></div>
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to my escape-<o:p></o:p></div>
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He is my refuge<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I said all of that to relay this message. As our children
and grandchildren return to school and classroom settings, we know that peer
pressure will be very impactful. But keep in mind that even the bad experiences
will help to mold and make them into who they will someday become. Of utmost
importance is endurance and how they handle the pressure. Admit it. Life as
some of us knew it, is quite different now. And like us, they must and will go
through things we cannot shield them from or put a band-aid on. Yes, school and
perfect attendance are important, but life experiences will be the ultimate
lessons. So teach them something they cannot grasp at school. Teach them Jesus!
He has perfect attendance. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Blessings,<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
PJ Payne<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />PJ Paynehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15991425278976175596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6666987645157489960.post-87272428236303172222019-07-17T08:25:00.000-05:002019-07-17T08:25:26.497-05:00How?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjni2ZdKanCinNimwGAlao-hMGVkLsF3Oj3UauZpbxnNwIHlqxu73tz4sjoNpELaj_v0Sp1xn5a-v1HhTnSbUvN4vocW4M2UZCZzBNi_sZX4dUtjlCPo1cQ3m00QcDhFOI20Kg7tV5DMLk/s1600/coffee-1420260__340.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="340" data-original-width="510" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjni2ZdKanCinNimwGAlao-hMGVkLsF3Oj3UauZpbxnNwIHlqxu73tz4sjoNpELaj_v0Sp1xn5a-v1HhTnSbUvN4vocW4M2UZCZzBNi_sZX4dUtjlCPo1cQ3m00QcDhFOI20Kg7tV5DMLk/s320/coffee-1420260__340.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Who do you depend on when it seems everything you touch and
do goes wrong? What do you do to keep yourself motivated? When do you realize
you need help or a backup plan? Where do you find hope and inspiration? Why
would you say enough is enough-- I can’t do this anymore?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I GIVE UP!<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Some of you may remember the five W’s in school … Who, What,
When, Where, Why and then there is How. Usually, they apply to writing and
journalism. We were taught that they are the research and building materials to
getting answers to a story. But this application can also be about life’s story!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In many aspects of our lives, at some point, we hit brick
walls, get knocked off our feet, dumbfound and have no obvious explanation or
answer for the dilemma in which we find ourselves. Is that when we throw our
hands up in despair? “Uh, yea, we’re human”. But just when you think you
have no answer and you’ve hit rock bottom, you relinquish, release, and let go.
Then you find the ‘<span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">HOW’<b> </b>of your story<b>.</b></span> <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
HE is the 'how' in your life! He knows how to relieve the
pain. He knows how to give you strength. He knows how to take your burdens. He
knows how to put the right words in your mouth when you don’t know what to say.
He is your answer when you’re faced with what you consider unanswerable questions.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I don’t know about anyone else, but when I remove ‘self’ out
of the way as I seek answers, my path is so much clearer. My daily walk reminds
me of<b> how</b> sweet it is to know that <b>‘God can’. <o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>God can</b> pick you up when you’re lower than low.
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>God can</b> fight your battles in struggles against
the foe. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>God can</b> renew that hope when the little you had
diminishes. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>God can</b> complete the order and flow of things, from
start to finish. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>God can</b> allow you to exhale when you can’t
breathe and exhaustion overtakes you. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>He can</b> mend the pieces when disappointment
tears apart and breaks you. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">He</b> replenishes
and renews your spirit, when you’ve fallen and cannot stand. <o:p></o:p></div>
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All this brings back to remembrance and <span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">it’s good to know<b> God can. <o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">We literally live ‘who,
what, when, where and why.’<b> </b>But when we truly let Him write our story,
we need not ask, ‘How’?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Blessings,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">PJ Payne</span></div>
<br />PJ Paynehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15991425278976175596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6666987645157489960.post-62359248975725428032019-06-20T08:37:00.001-05:002019-06-20T08:39:57.271-05:00Leave Your Mark!<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Think about it! What have you done or what is it that you do
that impacts another person’s life or even his or her day? <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Some years back, I worked in an environment in which the air
was so thick with negativity, you couldn’t cut it with a knife. Even my
coffee-breaks were ‘broken!’ <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I am a happy go lucky person, 90% of the time. I LOVE TO
LAUGH!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now a lot of it may have a li’l
bit to do with my coffee habits, but I am a Very positive person. Kinda 'outta the box!'<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
One day I walked in to work and spoke in my cheerful manner.
I gleefully said “Good Morning!” Nothing’s wrong with that, right? Well, of the
5 to 7 individuals who were in ear reach, only two reacted. I think every bit
of energy I had in my body was immediately drained from me. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I felt as though I needed to check my breath.
I was positive I bruised my teeth, even ‘after’ my morning coffee. And then my
second cup of coffee had no immediate effect on my demeanor. For at least an
hour, I was very quiet. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I understand that we ALL have ‘stuff’ going on in our lives—some
unimaginable. And it stands to reason as to why ones persona may cast bits of
quietness, anger or sadness. But NOT all the time! <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
That day I had had enough! I wanted my actions to ‘make them’
and not let them ‘make me!’ I could not and would not work in that type of environment
for the rest of the week. It was at that time, I resolved for the rest of the
day that I would find something positive to say to, or about each individual
that I personally encountered. Not only that, I would throw an irresistible
infectious smile. LOL.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Needless to say, my efforts were received very positively. I
was even asked in which department I worked. It made me feel better about myself
also.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So to all of you, do this for me. Take time for the rest of
the day, or even begin on tomorrow, to say or do a positive deed…<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There’s no better feeling when you've made a
positive mark.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
Be distinctive,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
make your mark</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
no matter what<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
others say<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
They can't see <o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
your vision<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
don't know your thoughts<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
or your way<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
You're set apart</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
from a rigid format</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
the natural scheme<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
of things<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
Unique, relative <o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
but not the same<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
You're<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
'Outta Tha Box' <o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
When you<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
Leave Your Mark!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Blessings,</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
PJ Payne</div>
</div>
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<br /></div>
PJ Paynehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15991425278976175596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6666987645157489960.post-63069965908232775082019-06-06T08:33:00.003-05:002019-06-06T16:44:39.719-05:00Fix Me, Coffee<br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Seems like the faster I go, the further behind I get! There are Never enough hours in the day;
enough days in the week; or enough weeks in the month. “A schedule? What's
that?"</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8F5PBX6QjxHI083nArutMYvNYtOkzPSSpERKXXKdrOJsrp6cnA9UyHlVpOZqdUFhcBnX7g6ATUqaMp-_yy_RUEsNQI6zT8GeugNPihJnhc5N0JSzYX4zKF-imQlxmTEz3PgTt1LTP1_I/s1600/eyeem-126142968.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8F5PBX6QjxHI083nArutMYvNYtOkzPSSpERKXXKdrOJsrp6cnA9UyHlVpOZqdUFhcBnX7g6ATUqaMp-_yy_RUEsNQI6zT8GeugNPihJnhc5N0JSzYX4zKF-imQlxmTEz3PgTt1LTP1_I/s400/eyeem-126142968.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">I used to pride myself
on being organized. Yeah, I was the one who had all of the organizational
skills that were down to the ‘T’. My kids can vouch for the fact that they had
duties each day. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There was a time for
this and a time for that... I even scheduled 'play times!’ Needless to say, <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was the organizational guru!!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Our lives were full of paste-it notes and sticky-notes. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">I think it all derives from the fact that I was brought up
in a mid to large size family. And we did have organization because my mom
worked outside the house as well as at home when she was home… <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">At that time, people didn’t have a title for a person who basically did what it took to make ends meet. it was just</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">‘survival’ for a
single mother with 6 children. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now we
call ourselves ‘Multi-taskers or Entrepreneurs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">But do you realize that coffee has been around forever, as
the ‘Fix It’ drink? <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was, even then,
the Go To drink. But as I can recall, mostly the older folks drank it. They wouldn’t
give it to the kids- saying we couldn’t have any. LOL. I chuckle now as I think
back to those days.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Yes, they really thought of it as an ‘adult drink!’<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Let me recount their reasoning—<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">You are too young.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Coffee is gonna make you nervous.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">You can’t drink that! Git outta ‘grown folk’s business.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Coffee drinkers smoke cigarettes too, so you don’t need to
smoke.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">People drink coffee to sober up.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Black coffee is a Man’s drink.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Coffee is gonna stain your teeth.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">You can’t drink coffee. It will keep you up ALL night!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">It’s only for us (adults). It’s too expensive.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Coffee will burn you.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Coffee will make your breath stink.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Boys (men) don’t like girls (women) who drink coffee.” They’re
fast!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">The list can go on…. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">My how times have changed! Now we LIVE for this ‘drink of
choice!’ And it is ageless, literally, from teenagers to adults. It comes in all types of strengths,
flavors, caffeinated or decaf, crystalized—any way you can think of,
with a million and one uses. You can do ‘shots’! Shoot, people even use it as cures and
remedies.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: times, "times new roman", serif;">I definitely need it to fix me in every aspect of my life! Had a bad day? I indulge in a cup of my brew. Can't do without it; mornings, noonday, or evening, The day just goes better when you've had your fix! Is that why parents didn't want children to 'drink of the bitter cup' so to speak? I guess the age-old secret was 'it was the FIX,' even back then!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: times, "times new roman", serif;">And now... Coffee Has Arrived!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">So, “Fix Me, Coffee and Jesus!” Not
necessarily in that order.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Blessings,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">PJ Payne</span></div>
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<br />PJ Paynehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15991425278976175596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6666987645157489960.post-48401553306920455102019-05-23T00:53:00.004-05:002019-05-23T00:53:46.462-05:00The Simple Things<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7RqQZT_1UxlskmwGY0yDqo4H2fSgcWFQju05fsnkGtXaVX3sMPlLVgkRjx0JDBVmSOmDBuP3YhEQFajwP8Fm52GzxVZJTr0LmJeaW-A3ty4SRsRnAKbU-lPJeENI-MPr6byewSqHUgF4/s1600/rainbow+coffee.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="770" data-original-width="1025" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7RqQZT_1UxlskmwGY0yDqo4H2fSgcWFQju05fsnkGtXaVX3sMPlLVgkRjx0JDBVmSOmDBuP3YhEQFajwP8Fm52GzxVZJTr0LmJeaW-A3ty4SRsRnAKbU-lPJeENI-MPr6byewSqHUgF4/s400/rainbow+coffee.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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We never know from one day to the next what type of day we
will wake up and see. Questionable still is if we will wake up at all. Nothing
is in our control, yet we take for granted the little things we enjoy without
the tiniest bit of effort on our part. But today miraculously came anyway. What
did you do to make it happen? We know the answer to that question… nothing
whatsoever.</div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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I speak of ‘hands-off’ blessings we are awarded because we
need to wake up and smell the roses. Some of us are very fortunate to sail
through the storms in our lives unscathed; others are not. A prime example is
the fact that we have been inundated with rain- physically evident storms. Some
people were not affected as others encountered having to be rescued, losing
vehicles, and even homes flooded.</div>
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Metaphorically speaking, we all sometimes wake up to the
rain in our lives. Whatever you are going through, someone else is going
through something greater. “Concentrate on the rainbow after the storm.” This
was my awakening one afternoon ‘after the rain.’<o:p></o:p></div>
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Just riding along one
day, singing our little song<o:p></o:p></div>
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My grandson
exclaimed, "Look a rainbow! It is sooo long!"<o:p></o:p></div>
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I glanced up to the sky,
as I drove against the wind<o:p></o:p></div>
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"Let's follow
it, he exclaimed, and see where it ends!"<o:p></o:p></div>
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Of course, I looked at
him and said<o:p></o:p></div>
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"I don't think
so, my son.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The end of a rainbow?
Sweetie, there is none!"<o:p></o:p></div>
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Then the beauty of
its colors<o:p></o:p></div>
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made curiosity get
the best of me<o:p></o:p></div>
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As we drove I took
pictures<o:p></o:p></div>
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and really wanted to
see<o:p></o:p></div>
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Just where this
rainbow might end<o:p></o:p></div>
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And of course, I knew we’d
never find it<o:p></o:p></div>
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But the excitement on
his face<o:p></o:p></div>
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made me feel adventurous,
yet dumbfounded<o:p></o:p></div>
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To think- a child has
this type of curiosity<o:p></o:p></div>
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And I've seen
rainbows, many times over<o:p></o:p></div>
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I took its grandeur
for granted<o:p></o:p></div>
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Never thought twice
about it<o:p></o:p></div>
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Then I reminisced the
childhood song<o:p></o:p></div>
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'Somewhere Over the
Rainbow'<o:p></o:p></div>
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I knew it all was only
fantasy<o:p></o:p></div>
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But my goodness, who
knows?<o:p></o:p></div>
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Just where does this
rainbow end?<o:p></o:p></div>
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So I told him about
'the pot of gold'<o:p></o:p></div>
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But that just made
him even more excited<o:p></o:p></div>
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And said, "Let's
go, let's go, let’s go!"<o:p></o:p></div>
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Through all of this,
I was laughing<o:p></o:p></div>
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and delighted to know,
as we sang<o:p></o:p></div>
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That this little
escapade was our adventure<o:p></o:p></div>
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Free at will... The
Simple Things<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Blessings,</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
PJ Payne<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />PJ Paynehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15991425278976175596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6666987645157489960.post-24356259083676223522019-05-02T08:47:00.000-05:002019-05-02T08:47:50.409-05:00The TestWe go through tests each and every day of our lives. Whether hard or easy, life teaches us. When things get really hard or stressful, don't wonder or feel you are all alone. He's unseen but speaks loudly! Listen and look for the signs!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFyLl1MVUOqJGRLr-a_MuaNkz5mQQyEKnqeVGVwOIZhVjOytYX80eV6Cti-fPT3k0x-TRWJ9mSsU-kAXUSv16WFsOSGpkOrKaCgM8x7r040LJ8_jHV5Ij5E6PmXbhCbma7yEjeKQkrTAE/s1600/teachers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="250" data-original-width="500" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFyLl1MVUOqJGRLr-a_MuaNkz5mQQyEKnqeVGVwOIZhVjOytYX80eV6Cti-fPT3k0x-TRWJ9mSsU-kAXUSv16WFsOSGpkOrKaCgM8x7r040LJ8_jHV5Ij5E6PmXbhCbma7yEjeKQkrTAE/s400/teachers.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "gulim"; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">When you are going through</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "gulim"; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">s</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "gulim"; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">omething har</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "gulim"; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">d</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "gulim"; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;"> and wonder where is</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="color: red; font-family: edwardian script itc; font-size: 253.333px;">God, </span></span><br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="color: black; font-family: gulim; font-size: x-large; font-style: italic;">...</span></span><span style="font-family: gulim; font-size: x-large; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">remember the teacher is</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "gulim"; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">a</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "gulim"; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">lways quiet during a test.</span></span></div>
PJ Paynehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15991425278976175596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6666987645157489960.post-15121959300729095472019-04-25T08:54:00.002-05:002019-04-25T08:57:24.635-05:00Wake-up Call<br />
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Do you sometimes wonder why things are happening to you and
you don't have any answers? But then after everything happens you look back and
say, “But God.” I did not realize that storms that I’ve been going through were
going to allow me to help someone else. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSzIAmnMMqplnn0zzRay9fMeCxEWu1ibmN4gIF32aj0bttvHbL_0LV0mIjgO2SQfHmJPvmorqCO6CnaClTs6T51C_fScwPnO2Ioe-QxSnPhahKPHaPqu0TWZy8vezzriOUYAY2YSByTpY/s1600/5555225115_afd2af7673_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSzIAmnMMqplnn0zzRay9fMeCxEWu1ibmN4gIF32aj0bttvHbL_0LV0mIjgO2SQfHmJPvmorqCO6CnaClTs6T51C_fScwPnO2Ioe-QxSnPhahKPHaPqu0TWZy8vezzriOUYAY2YSByTpY/s400/5555225115_afd2af7673_b.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Without any notification, I found myself having car issues
that I was NOT ready for.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After a recent
accident, which I won’t elaborate on ‘whose fault it was, I found myself
becoming complacent. You know when things are going great for you and you
settle your mind, your spirit—just get comfortable in your own little
world.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Well, my little piece of ‘Heaven
on earth’ got infiltrated by a few disruptions.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A warning light had been coming on in my vehicle. I
initially ignored it, but it became progressively worse and began to interfere
with different functions such as the speed dropping as I drove. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After trying to brainstorm it with my ‘mechanically
inclined’ son, we were able to reset it. To say the least, that did not FIX the
problem and I had to do what I dreaded doing… take it to be serviced. You know
how we are always trying to get around the obvious; not wanting to disrupt ‘routine.’<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So I finally had it towed in and found myself having to
Uber to get around. Well, poor, poor li</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
l ole me, right? Through all of this, I had to
get off of my ‘high horse’ or ‘majestic throne,’ and deal with others… My world
was NOT my own, because I needed to be patient and depend on someone else for
something as simple- to me, at least to me, like a ride to a grocery store...<o:p></o:p></div>
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To say the least, for the past few days I have been an ear
for people who have been going through some issues. From a semi-homeless family to a father who JUST found he had a daughter, after 33 years, who had been put up for
adoption. And I must also add the young gentleman whose wife had kidney failure
and doctors pronounced her dead after she blacked out. His fervent prayer and pushing
the medical team to revive her was miraculous. After revival, they said she
would not function because her brain was without oxygen too long… she is now out
of the coma but during that time he found she had been cheating for a year and
a half.<o:p></o:p></div>
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When I look at their situation I think to myself I am not
going through anything in comparison. I thank God for where I am now because I
don't know if I would have the strength to endure what they are having to
endure. And guess what they just needed a listening ear. But, their issues and
problems have given me an eye-opening experience. This is not about me or them
this is about God working in all of our lives. The Uber drivers, the wrecker towing
person, they all had horrific stories. And mine may not have been what theirs
was, but God was allowing me to see that what I'm going through somebody else
is going through much, much worse.<o:p></o:p></div>
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MY question. To whom do we trust? When was the last time you had a wake-up call?<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />PJ Paynehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15991425278976175596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6666987645157489960.post-37324768345528951812019-04-18T08:55:00.001-05:002019-04-18T08:55:48.355-05:00Peripheral<br />
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I saw this today…</div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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A man on a corner<o:p></o:p></div>
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The man had a sign<o:p></o:p></div>
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The sign said, ‘Need Help,<o:p></o:p></div>
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Please Help!’<o:p></o:p></div>
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Tattered clothing<o:p></o:p></div>
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Raggedy boots; no strings<o:p></o:p></div>
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A dirty cup<o:p></o:p></div>
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Unkempt hair<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
A slothful walk<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
A seemingly dampened spirit<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Broken<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Many passers-by<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Stares<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Yet, he couldn’t reach some folks<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
A dismal outlook…<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
And as I slowly drove, I eventually got a closer
look.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But it seems the closer I came,
like those who were ahead of me, I didn’t want to have any eye contact with him.
You see, probably like my ‘forerunners’, I felt that if I would look at him in
his eyes, I would feel obligated to respond in some form or fashion. His
appearance was a directive of the mindset society has attached to individuals
on street corners. There are preconceived notions that they are all cons,
thieves, druggies, and any other belittling label that can be an assessment of
their character. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
So for a minute, I stared straight ahead. My
characterization was stoic; immobile. I continued to drive, but as I began to
pass him by, from the ‘corner of my eye’, I saw his eyes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I then turned and looked at him. Our eyes
met.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I saw something deeper than his
outer appearance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Without realizing my
actions, I pulled all of the change from my ashtray and a few dollars, from my
purse. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I rolled my window down, as he
turned and limped towards my car.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
dropped the money into his cup. He said “thank you ma-am.” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
And then I saw…<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
A gracious nod<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
A toothless grin<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Stark-white, bright eyes<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
A rigid, tall frame<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
A resilient stride<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
A glimmer of hope<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
My question to you all is what would you have done? How
would you have reacted? Would you have followed suit and drove past him, as so
many others had done? Would you have stopped and questioned him? Maybe you have
already encountered someone like him. What did you do?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
As for me, the very moment our eyes met, I knew it was
not my place to judge him. My spirit would not allow me to pass him by with no
thought of the fact that he really could be homeless, someone’s father, brother
or uncle. Better still – I saw a child of God. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
In its simplicity, “I thank God for Peripheral Vision!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />PJ Paynehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15991425278976175596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6666987645157489960.post-16566885008570968452019-03-21T08:47:00.001-05:002019-03-21T08:47:36.367-05:00Distinction<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf1LYt0zVAuLYl7UEComs8R4pRvLOh4QbFffQTWdwv_mfEKYl90laHy-q9KAblGhqSYcoOeaAOF07oyBvMxtxiUZ4D8Ugdc_V-pcDu_VBWU29bDXg4EKWYC7Jsml1Nb3rad-RpATpvowc/s1600/oranges+coffee.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="683" data-original-width="1024" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf1LYt0zVAuLYl7UEComs8R4pRvLOh4QbFffQTWdwv_mfEKYl90laHy-q9KAblGhqSYcoOeaAOF07oyBvMxtxiUZ4D8Ugdc_V-pcDu_VBWU29bDXg4EKWYC7Jsml1Nb3rad-RpATpvowc/s400/oranges+coffee.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria, serif;">Comparisons-</span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">
In life, there comes a time when an individual has to just STAND out and stand
alone! Life has given man so many 'lemons' and not everyone knows how or has
the strength to 'Make Lemonade,' as the common adage goes.<br />
Instead, there are comparisons made, like Apples to Oranges. We are a
comparative generation! But when I think about it, we have been compared
throughout our lives from birth... "Oh, she is sooo cute," to
"Ummm, isn't he a little short for his age...?" Judgment and
comparison go on throughout adulthood. What about the distinction.<br />
<br />
Why can't people just let well enough alone and let one just 'BE'? Well, my
answer to that is, man has not been able, from the beginning of time, to
naturally be proactive. As humans, we need an extra push, motivation, fuel
injection, because a lot of us are not self-starters. We are basically on
automatic pilot, so we need a GPS from time to time. That's what
comparisons, like apples to oranges is all about, so it is not ALL bad.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><br />
"Think about it." Pick one and see. Look for the difference or
likeness; firm or soft, tart or sweet, small or large, green, red, yellow or
golden... not measured by seed but weight and texture, indeed... Apples to oranges, comparatively; Apples and oranges' diversities. Apples and oranges are distinctively different.<br />
<br />
No matter how much someone is told they are like someone else, they must choose
to embrace individuality comfortably. What the <b>'apple to oranges' -</b> comparison of
two people or things that are irreconcilably or fundamentally different does
for one is make Him/Her STAND out... No bad apples. Just distinctive, even if they carry the same name.<br />
<br />
Be Blessed,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">PJ Payne</span></div>
<br />PJ Paynehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15991425278976175596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6666987645157489960.post-82252540410098589022019-03-07T10:04:00.000-06:002019-03-07T10:29:07.195-06:00In Deeds<div class="MsoNormal">
Have you ever wondered how it would feel to have someone do something for you ‘out of the blue...' just for no reason? No strings attached? Well, I have. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In today’s society, with all of the wrongdoers, making the headlines and outshining the ‘do righters,' it stands to reason why morale is so low and negativity prevails and is up in most cases.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
And then out of nowhere comes a ray of hope that all is not as bad as it seems...<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNzEb2Q6kt8eypr0R3dshfo-tql4tLSX87TsFZx0nYlXaItnW0XVs4RRn9lZwALrpzUMMzInj3-FBs_fP7zrkIU3sN4oGDKTIVIFl8QJpDT8V8_lEfzBbHNNymJYErW9PFVALfVjE50KU/s1600/Apodaca15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="727" data-original-width="1000" height="290" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNzEb2Q6kt8eypr0R3dshfo-tql4tLSX87TsFZx0nYlXaItnW0XVs4RRn9lZwALrpzUMMzInj3-FBs_fP7zrkIU3sN4oGDKTIVIFl8QJpDT8V8_lEfzBbHNNymJYErW9PFVALfVjE50KU/s400/Apodaca15.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A few days ago, I was in a McDonald’s line seeking my ‘afternoon fix’ of coffee. When I don’t have my own ‘Coffee Fix” available, Mickey D is my go-to alternative. So there I was in this looong line and I would guess, this was rush hour, as a high school across the way, was just dismissing students. I had a long frustrating day, so my attitude displayed such. I thought I could get ahead of the barrage of thirst-quenching seekers, but no such luck. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It wasn’t a very cold day but to a coffee lover, does that matter? So I crept along, contemplating getting out of the line. Only because of the two lanes, of course, I chose the slowest lane. And then I knew when I would finally place my order, I’d be the only coffee request at 3:30 pm. So I pulled up to the kiosk and placed my order, requesting ALL of the bells and whistles of condiments I HAD to have, ‘inside’ my coffee. And on top of that, I made sure they knew I wanted it FRESHLY brewed. I thought to myself, the clerk would probably give me an irritated ‘worse customer I ever had look,’ when I got to the window to pay. That expectant attitude, showed on my face as I drove up to pay. I was about to hand him my cash and he said, “It’s already paid for Ma’am.” Imagine the shock as well as total embarrassment on my face. All I could respond with was WOW!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I can never adequately explain the emotional impact the gesture of unselfishness generosity from my anonymous ‘drive-thru’ buddy, did for me. I believe my whole demeanor changed. My drive home was with a smile on my face. The bumper-to-bumper traffic had no bearing on me. I had peace with my perfect brew. Thank you, God, for sending me what I needed, when I needed it. Revelations. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I was in such disbelief of the generosity of that individual, I didn’t think to do the same- at the time. The next afternoon, my ‘Pay It Forward’ felt liberating.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Blessings,</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
PJ Payne</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
PJ Paynehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15991425278976175596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6666987645157489960.post-10957324474246410412019-02-07T10:15:00.000-06:002019-02-09T09:53:17.413-06:00Rise Up!! If you have followed my blog, then you realize that I'm an early riser. I'm like that nosey kid at Christmas who wants to get a sneak peek at the gifts before his siblings get up! I'm like that about my mornings! I want that sneak peek. Consider me selfish, but I need my mornings ALL to myself! AND not without the boost of my fresh brew and the Word! I want to see the day breaking through my window; the sun coming up, just over the horizon; hear the hustle, bustle and the stir of life all around me; horns and whistles blowing from afar... and then I physically rise up, from my 'Me' time and start my daily do's.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcq0xLiyYyXV1A1rsLGyZwCoc2kYn2jIe6KUGUUillVmbVSq51o1T5qQpj0c1hWZTGZuKB9E2EGtm5KpqW9Xn_9xHz7nGrm5-_Dyp9RdSyP3xUFu0DWxck-XhWTlhJUVhD912o4xOiwbc/s1600/early-morning-coffee.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="413" data-original-width="550" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcq0xLiyYyXV1A1rsLGyZwCoc2kYn2jIe6KUGUUillVmbVSq51o1T5qQpj0c1hWZTGZuKB9E2EGtm5KpqW9Xn_9xHz7nGrm5-_Dyp9RdSyP3xUFu0DWxck-XhWTlhJUVhD912o4xOiwbc/s400/early-morning-coffee.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
This morning is no different, but as I physically arose from my coffee corner, I felt a bit sluggish and melancholy. Very tearful. When I feel like this, 'I' try to figure out the reason why I'm having what I have dubbed 'emotional overcasts'. I don't want God to take these feelings away from me, just give clarity and show me how to endure.<br />
I am very hard on myself sometimes. I feel there is a reason behind everything we experience. You see, as a whole, I'm a happy person. I am pretty healthy for my 'numbers,' lol. I am not in financial straits, Praise God! My children are doing well. So what has me feeling this way? As a pattern, this familiar emotional overload shows itself at pivotal times of the year. I checked out today's date. February 7th. I realized it is one of my favorite niece's birthday! I MUST send her a Happy Birthday video or call. Sooo, what has me feeling so down? Think PJ, think!!<br />
"Light Bulb!"<br />
You see, having been married for many years, my late husband and I LOVED and cherished certain holidays. Valentine's Day was at the top of the list, right beside Christmas. I now realize that Valentine's day is right around the corner. Although conscientious is that most holidays are overrated and just money-making ploys. But when that time of the year comes around and you have had life-changing experiences, that void in your life is excruciating. You can never really duplicate it, no matter what! Memories are very hard to ignore. <span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">They become innately embedded.</span> Bottom line is 'I AM HUMAN,' so what I'm going through is not at all foreign to many who have loved and lost in any capacity, whether a breakup, divorce, or death. Although many years have passed, time does not stop the heart from skipping a beat at the very thought of US.<br />
My take on this is "To love and have loved someone with your heart and soul is immeasurable! But today, I must continue to move forward. So on this, and each beautiful morning God graces me with, "I Still Rise Up!"<br />
<br />
Blessings,<br />
PJ Payne<br />
<br />
<br />PJ Paynehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15991425278976175596noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6666987645157489960.post-85799942932626564272019-01-24T10:26:00.002-06:002019-01-24T10:27:25.953-06:00Baffled?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnSMrxHDoSMVPPSekXv1FkaWJXUh6dwkZqr1kdr6qezBw8Bq6y6sK0zyOU50FaLjNuEm2GI0eDK1k1hwz7Bv5r60Q3RgnPiAvpFQRtqoVMFCkhs0ScuxkbzPZ__41dY67YjnN70L0TgVQ/s1600/Busy+Coffee.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="770" data-original-width="1026" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnSMrxHDoSMVPPSekXv1FkaWJXUh6dwkZqr1kdr6qezBw8Bq6y6sK0zyOU50FaLjNuEm2GI0eDK1k1hwz7Bv5r60Q3RgnPiAvpFQRtqoVMFCkhs0ScuxkbzPZ__41dY67YjnN70L0TgVQ/s400/Busy+Coffee.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We are more than halfway through the first month of this New Year and I realize as, in the past, time stands still for no one. I revert back to a cliché I’ve heard most of my life, ‘Off with the old and on with the new.’ That should mean prioritize, right? New order; new beginnings.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sooo, this means putting old things aside and starting fresh. Well, some people just don’t take heed easily. “Guilty!” I am beginning this year with the same BANG theory I have in the past, no matter what I vow NOT to do, or whatever my New Year’s resolution may be… (by the way,I have abolished over the past few years) I can’t follow through. That reminds me of that other old saying “Beginning is easy, continuing, hard.’ <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So here I am again, New Year old ways. A plate full with just so many hours in a day and these...<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
‘Feelings’<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Ummm…<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
What is this?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
What has me baffled?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
What‘s in my head?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
What is it there for?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I am living a life <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Full of haste<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So I thrive on<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Keeping up the pace<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Seem there’s so much <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I can do<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Seems there’s no way <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
To get through<o:p></o:p></div>
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I keep on searching <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
For the time<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
And keep on looking <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
For a sign<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
For what can and<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
What can’t be done<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When one job’s finish<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Another has begun<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I seek with grace <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Seek sublimity<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Without a trace <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Of obscenity<o:p></o:p></div>
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I can’t be still<o:p></o:p></div>
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I just can’t rest<o:p></o:p></div>
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Always searching<o:p></o:p></div>
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Trying to better my best<o:p></o:p></div>
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Seeking and striving<o:p></o:p></div>
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Tread roads intrepidly<o:p></o:p></div>
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Look to completion<o:p></o:p></div>
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But can’t let go indefinitely<o:p></o:p></div>
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Gotta keep moving<o:p></o:p></div>
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Keeping up the pace<o:p></o:p></div>
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Always a step ahead<o:p></o:p></div>
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No time to waste<o:p></o:p></div>
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Fulfilling wishes<o:p></o:p></div>
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Fulfilling needs<o:p></o:p></div>
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Feel it my duty<o:p></o:p></div>
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To intercede<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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When there’s always<o:p></o:p></div>
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A 'work' to be done<o:p></o:p></div>
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When I strive for success<o:p></o:p></div>
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My battle is won<o:p></o:p></div>
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There’s always another<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Feat to be achieved <o:p></o:p></div>
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Never to finish<o:p></o:p></div>
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Always to cleave<o:p></o:p></div>
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Not endeavoring to<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Defy or defeat<o:p></o:p></div>
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But encouraging me on<o:p></o:p></div>
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Cause I’m feeling<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Incomplete<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
~PJ Payne<b><o:p></o:p></b></div>
PJ Paynehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15991425278976175596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6666987645157489960.post-13030458713838948702018-12-24T18:57:00.000-06:002018-12-24T18:57:34.259-06:00The Gift<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkiB1icdhiZ6sAkpWqXKalqYcoXLZNlISjmFzLV7Sf6ohnWhCsG0khvytd6PrTNFp3IGfjuHQWDjRBu4z0zM8YmLYcKqtV6CWhvaOduAsHTLQ1BvMEaB8-Ujw2Ew1sq_SV7VXRynsolJw/s1600/centerpiece+coffee.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="297" data-original-width="412" height="287" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkiB1icdhiZ6sAkpWqXKalqYcoXLZNlISjmFzLV7Sf6ohnWhCsG0khvytd6PrTNFp3IGfjuHQWDjRBu4z0zM8YmLYcKqtV6CWhvaOduAsHTLQ1BvMEaB8-Ujw2Ew1sq_SV7VXRynsolJw/s400/centerpiece+coffee.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Gifts don't have to come in the form of a beautifully wrapped inanimate object. Some of the most wonderful gifts are God's blessings bestowed upon you at a time when you least expect it.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
He was not a Christmas baby and did not come to us in what some would consider idyllic circumstances; but, he is definitely a blessing to our family...</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Approximately 12 years ago, our youngest son was excited about being accepted by a prestigious Christian college in East Texas. It was a dream that my late husband and I wanted for him, as well as our other kids, who had gone on to seek careers in their choice of fields. But this young man- he was the one (it seems) whom we were on our knees for ALL the time. He was the one who ‘tried our patience.’ The one whose parents, the teachers knew by name because we LIVED at the school, for one reason or another. The one who was spoiled and got away with murder, as his siblings whined about him. You know--that ‘one kid’ in the family. But he was also the child we thought we would never have because doctors gave up on him. The child they suggested, in so many words, we should abort. They said because of high-risk factors, I would not carry my pregnancy full-term. But God! </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Losing his dad at 15 was hard on him, on me, his siblings; hard on all of my family. And then one day, while he was still in high school, it was as though a lightbulb went off in his head. He said, “Mama, I am the man of the house now and I’m going to make you and Daddy proud!” Wow, my eyes teared up. He was growing up and he was determined. He graduated high school and initially went to a community college, as I’m sure he did not want to be away from home and me. Although in high school, he played sports, played piano and had other interests, his true passion was singing. So when he decided to go away to college, I was ecstatic.</div>
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He pursued and studied music. His siblings and I encouraged him to keep his focus. He was able to tour the United States with the college’s prestigious ‘Summer Tour Acapella Chorus.’ This group of talented students, from all parts of the US, toured, sang, and at the same time had to keep up their GPA to perform. These were very proud moments for the family and me, to see him flourish. One of his tour stops brought him back home to Texas, where he introduced us to a young lady from the East Coast, who sang with them. They were BOTH beaming!</div>
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Finally, that day came! He graduated from college. It was the fulfillment of a dream. We celebrated because we knew his dad would have been very proud of him. The world was at his feet! Then, weeks later, with a bewildered look on his face, he made an announcement to us. “I’m going to be a father!” I thought, WOW! I shook off initial shock and said “It’s going to be okay son. I know you are overwhelmed right now, but it will work out.” And it did. Through it all, even I had to find strength in my ‘go to’ scripture, Philippians 4:13 KJV- ‘<i>I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.’ </i> Finally, we were given a beautiful healthy baby boy. The blessing in ALL of this is that an extraordinary angel was watching over his young parents. This child was born on a very special day--his grandpa’s birthday, January 4<sup>th</sup>. How befitting! As the only grandchild, he gives this family more reasons to remember him and celebrate the season with gratefulness, never forgetting he would not be here to carry on his grandfather’s legacy, had we listened to doctors and not trusted God.<o:p></o:p></div>
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And now at nine years old, when I asked him the question, “What should I write about this month Dominic? This article is supposed to be about the Christmas spirit.” He immediately responded,<span style="color: red;"> </span>“Write about ME, Nemo! You always said I was a gift from God.” <o:p></o:p></div>
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Blessings,<o:p></o:p></div>
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PJ Paynehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15991425278976175596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6666987645157489960.post-19968072154274708102018-12-06T09:43:00.000-06:002018-12-06T09:43:47.240-06:00'Glory'<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">I am thinking... <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Everyone has or has had a special person in his or her life that impacted them forever. That impact was so profound that you never forgot that individual. You wondered how they did what they did. They went through so much and seem to come out untarnished, unscathed, praising, shouting and giving God the Glory for even the hardships! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">Well in my lifetime, I have met a few ‘Praising and Praying’ women. But one sister, Gloria (Sally) Criswell, impacted my life deeply.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">I met Sister Sally (as we all called her) a number of years ago when I was still a ‘babe in Christ’. We were both young women at the time, but she had, I know, a special gift. She was prayerful and humble. I was impressionable and ‘on fire’ for the Lord. I absorbed and gravitated to every little positive setting I encountered. I desired to work in His Church in whatever capacity I could.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">I loved to sing, but also soon became a part of a group of Lady Prayer Warriors, for lack of a better title. There were a number of us, as we would go to homes and hospitals to pray with the elderly, sick and shut-in. I recognized instantly that Sister Sally always prayed hard and fervently. I thought… ”It’s as though no one else is in the room… just her and God.” Whenever she finished, I felt as though I had been cleansed and renewed spiritually! That’s how powerful her prayers were. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">There was a mutual bond in this group, but for some reason, a few of us just ‘clicked.’ Soon we begin to take turns going to each other’s home, to fellowship and pray. I think Sister Sally literally taught me how to pray. We prayed for each other, as we were all married, had children, and had no shame in “Letting Go and Letting God!” We allowed His Spirit to encompass, move and envelope our very being, remembering the scripture: </span><i>Matthew 18:20 </i><span class="highl"><i><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">"For where two or three have gathered together in My name, I am there in their midst”. </span></i></span><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">And it never failed, as we would each take a turn to pray, it seems Sister Sally would ALWAYS say the last prayer. And time was of no essence, as we let God have His way. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">I loved watching her when we would meet. Through our initial conversations, she would sometimes sit with her hands on her lap, a smile on her face, eyes closed and she would rock back and forth… a very serene vision. It was like she was slowly gearing up; getting ready to exalt God through prayer. She would pray so passionately and unselfishly, we were automatically brought to tears. On many occasions, we could have easily used more than one box of Kleenex. She would be crying and her nose would be red and runny (as did ours) and by the time we released hands and opened our eyes, we needed a shower. “Ain’t God Good!” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">I can’t forget those days. This is for ‘The Praying Woman’ who is still in my life. She taught by example, how a woman prays. “God bless you, Sister Sally!”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">The Praying Woman<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">The praying woman has a prayer for every situation<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">The praying woman always prays without hesitation<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">She goes about as though her life is not one of her own<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Her first focus is on others, knowing prayer changes what’s wrong<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">She deems ‘Too blessed to be stressed’<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">As a powerful endorsement<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">And prayer, a necessary<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">And essential re-enforcement</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">The praying woman has no need<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">To keep problems on her mind<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">She automatically prays and heeds<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">To situations that she finds</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">She has a role in others’ lives<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">They don’t even seem to notice<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">She’s there without a visual concept<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">As she senses and can focus</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Without a doubt, she’s the praying woman<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">God has given to all indeed<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">In body and soul, she gives her all<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Unconscious of what she needs</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">She prays for you unselfishly<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">With a God-given gift of discernment<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">You see, the praying woman<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Is grounded and rooted with positive refinement</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">The praying woman has grace and gratitude<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Not seeking praise or fame.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">For she gives God ALL the glory,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Doing it all, in Jesus’ name!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">Amen</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">PS: "In 2019, Find Your Glory." </span></div>
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Blessings,</div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">PJ Payne<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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PJ Paynehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15991425278976175596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6666987645157489960.post-18580817308543665652018-11-29T09:06:00.001-06:002018-11-29T09:06:21.168-06:00'You Don't Miss Your Water...'<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">There is an old saying my momma used to say all the time… “You don’t miss your water ‘til your well runs dry.” I cannot recall if she was quoting lyrics from an old song or if it was just another one of her ‘off the tip of the tongue’ animated expressions she often planted in our heads. Either way, it was repeated enough to embed an everlasting impression. I must admit, I initially did not ‘get it!’ “A well? What is a well?” I am sure I did one of those ‘eye rolls’ most kids do when they are lectured by their elders. But as time passed, I understood her words clearly.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">Too many times we go about our daily duties and onuses without giving a second thought to how we make it from day to day. We go to jobs that we think will always be available; take for granted our good health; give and buy kids things that are well above our means, which they presuppose is a ‘given…’ and the list goes on.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">What that expression means is that we cannot appreciate what we have, until we no longer have it. Even the simplest of things, like the air we so freely breathe, is taken for granted. Consider those who no longer have the capability of freely inhaling fresh air, as they become dependent on a breathing apparatus. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">As I sit back with my ‘brew’ in one hand and pen in the other, I consider how blessed I really am. I have had so many ‘water missing’ moments. And now, I think I am ever so grateful for the tiny things because this is my birthday month... A benchmark birthday! As I embark on a new stage of this wonderful life God has granted me, I seem to have had a huge growth-spurt! Uhhh, mentally and physically! I am not embracing the physical aspect easily, but I am accepting it and claiming good health, Lol. As a whole, I’m enlightened, learned, more vibrant, and comfortable in my own skin. But most importantly, I have grown to REALLY know Jesus. I am Sooo Thankful! He has and still sustains me. Everything I am and have gracefully endured is because of Him. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">Life and those ‘water missing’ moments have taught me so much… <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">-To be still and listen when I’m anxious- <b>Philippians 4: 6-7</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">-To take my hands off when I want to fix everything- <b>Exodus 14:14<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">-When God seemed so far away- <b>Psalm 139<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">-When I have lost a loved one- <b>John 14:18</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">-How to let go of pain when I have been wronged- <b>1 Peter 5:7<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">-When I realized everyone around me had grown or is gone- <b>Deuteronomy 31:8</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">-When I put trust in man and not in Him-<b> Psalm 27<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">-When I have been taken for granted; walked over-<b> 2 Chronicles 15:7<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">And if I can’t remember anything else but that childhood scripture, encompassing all, I recite- <b>Psalm 23.</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">So if you are wondering, what will happen next? Why has your well seemingly dried up? How will you make it? Please remember this-<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">Be grateful. Be thankful<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">For your now<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">For whatever situation <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">That has been bestowed<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">For He didn’t bring you this far<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">So that you’d turn around<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">Be grateful. Be graceful<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">Start thanking Him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">For He is your<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">‘How’<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">Blessings,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">PJ Payne<o:p></o:p></span></div>
PJ Paynehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15991425278976175596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6666987645157489960.post-52956076458691512082018-11-08T10:53:00.000-06:002018-11-08T10:53:05.898-06:00Unforeseen Hope<div class="MsoNormal">
Have you ever had someone in your life that you probably didn’t appreciate at the time? Then you come to realize that it wasn’t so bad after all? I’m sure this has happened to us all at some point and time; be it male or female. See, we learn through ups and downs, trials and tribulations that we were going through, things were not just about you, it was about them too. I definitely had that happen to me and had to figure it out. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiVeZEwnarjmv_ctPKxjsv3YAYlI3-5I61Rs0E491G8trh7CLIkh4_V5R1kXGDwf5PRzz9Tm5aWsuMO3CeHNlrblq39hCB8kIdc0lsehFUsCOBfHxUm_NhcoA8uw5xFzSYcGrw_9_AC9c/s1600/friends+coffee.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="342" data-original-width="608" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiVeZEwnarjmv_ctPKxjsv3YAYlI3-5I61Rs0E491G8trh7CLIkh4_V5R1kXGDwf5PRzz9Tm5aWsuMO3CeHNlrblq39hCB8kIdc0lsehFUsCOBfHxUm_NhcoA8uw5xFzSYcGrw_9_AC9c/s400/friends+coffee.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Making this story short, I had a girlfriend in my life for many years. We had so much in common. We both had wonderful marriages (or so we thought); both had three kids; both were Christians and members of a church community… so everything should have been fine, right? Well, it wasn’t. We were always talking, doing things together, trips with family, singing events etc. As our kids grew up and life happened, her marriage fell apart. I tried to be there for her but felt as though we didn’t mesh anymore. She stated there was a strain, as she was all of a sudden single and I wasn’t. It was quite hard for me to accept, and I bucked against it, stating nothing had changed about my adoration for her as a friend. I soon felt as though she threw quite a few insinuations towards me, so I resolved to fold and back away from the friendship.<o:p></o:p></div>
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As a few years, there were other devastating situations we endured… but what I remembered the most was that I felt abandoned. What I didn’t see at the time was how abandoned she must have felt, going through a divorce, feeling unwanted, unloved which may have in a way caused her to harbor ill feelings of jealousy or resentment.<o:p></o:p></div>
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As I stated, there is more to this story, but this was the beginning of understanding that we tend to take too many things personal. Sometimes things are not what they seem... There's always hope.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Unforeseen<o:p></o:p></div>
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I used to gripe about<o:p></o:p></div>
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My very best friend<o:p></o:p></div>
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And didn’t realize<o:p></o:p></div>
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My distinction she depended<o:p></o:p></div>
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Thought she was a mimic<o:p></o:p></div>
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Thought she was a mime<o:p></o:p></div>
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Didn’t put it together, then<o:p></o:p></div>
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What she needed was my time<o:p></o:p></div>
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I was that distinguishing part<o:p></o:p></div>
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Representative of her deficiency<o:p></o:p></div>
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Later I found, I gave hope<o:p></o:p></div>
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Imparting proficiency<o:p></o:p></div>
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She wouldn’t let on<o:p></o:p></div>
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How important to her I was <o:p></o:p></div>
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And wouldn’t give me the benefit<o:p></o:p></div>
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Of bestowing unequivocal love<o:p></o:p></div>
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I began to doubt our friendship<o:p></o:p></div>
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Had qualms about the treatment<o:p></o:p></div>
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I was receiving all but kinship<o:p></o:p></div>
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My importance, I wasn’t believing<o:p></o:p></div>
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So… I became defensive<o:p></o:p></div>
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I began to question commitment<o:p></o:p></div>
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Was what we had all these years<o:p></o:p></div>
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Fake… only a figment?<o:p></o:p></div>
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Finding later, a deeper sense<o:p></o:p></div>
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As we went through some things<o:p></o:p></div>
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Some folks just can’t accept flaws<o:p></o:p></div>
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No matter the pain it brings<o:p></o:p></div>
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See, she was one side of me<o:p></o:p></div>
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And I am who she admired<o:p></o:p></div>
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Didn’t really see the big picture then<o:p></o:p></div>
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Time apart was what was required<o:p></o:p></div>
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Stepping aside<o:p></o:p></div>
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Taking inventory<o:p></o:p></div>
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And in all things, ups or downs<o:p></o:p></div>
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Giving God the Glory<o:p></o:p></div>
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Blessings,</div>
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PJ Payne</div>
PJ Paynehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15991425278976175596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6666987645157489960.post-22267925030670319892018-10-25T09:29:00.001-05:002018-10-25T09:29:10.678-05:00The 'Chauffeur'<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
What I’ve learned is, when something unexpected or drastic happens, we naturally seek answers and ask why. Everything you deem as ‘going wrong’ is not necessarily going wrong. “He wouldn’t have brought you to it, if He couldn’t bring you through it.” Brace yourself and hunker down, because He may be preparing you for the ride of a lifetime! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKJdtZZo6UFfTT8n6sGMCJeTlt5TcE4rIj3s4dbUtCf2UJZWbzOhECARs7kM0hyphenhyphenu-F5QL0MZHHTRHK5UCPEBIKAKsytA4v0M7YwhyIlkYJYZCgJZPpUaRwy2NzfA5OAU61dTWDZTKarfk/s1600/driving+690409002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="408" data-original-width="612" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKJdtZZo6UFfTT8n6sGMCJeTlt5TcE4rIj3s4dbUtCf2UJZWbzOhECARs7kM0hyphenhyphenu-F5QL0MZHHTRHK5UCPEBIKAKsytA4v0M7YwhyIlkYJYZCgJZPpUaRwy2NzfA5OAU61dTWDZTKarfk/s400/driving+690409002.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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But remember who is your pilot, your chauffeur, your navigator; you can make the worst thing that ever happened in your life, work for your best. <o:p></o:p></div>
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It’s hard to be grateful and thankful when everything around you seems to be in shambles. This is especially so, if you are the type of person who is the ‘leanee,’ instead of the leaner. Basically, you have been the one on whom everyone can depend … the confidante, spiritual adviser, the listening ear, the Rock of Gibraltar, the invincible one - need I go on? I’m sure you get the picture. So tell me, who do you go to when you’re in need of support? Do you deny yourself? Do you not open up? Are you repudiating the fact that you have problems or issues? Do you just hold it all in?<o:p></o:p></div>
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Well God knows us better than we know ourselves. He allows us to fall down sometimes so that we will understand exactly where our help AND the help of others, comes from when we get up.<i> Psalm 121:1-2 KJV …from whence cometh my help. My help cometh from the Lord, which made heaven and earth.</i> <o:p></o:p></div>
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There is just no escaping what God’s plan is for your life. Just let Him take the reins. Stop saying ‘thanks, but no thanks,’ when your little feeble mind tells you that you don’t need to go through the hardships you’re enduring. Let the chips fall where they may. Somehow, by way of those downfalls, you really will be able to help someone in dire need of support. The comfort you will be able to give will have been through experience and the BEST teacher. <o:p></o:p></div>
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So, take your punches and don’t run away. Instead, pick yourself up, pick your space and time, and give Him thanks for it all. Yes, it’s Thanksgiving time! Thank him for what you’ve been through AND as hard as it seems, what you are about to go through.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Blessings,<o:p></o:p></div>
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PJ Payne<o:p></o:p></div>
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PJ Paynehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15991425278976175596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6666987645157489960.post-46834689019705776332018-10-11T09:30:00.001-05:002018-10-11T10:19:25.887-05:00'Emotional'<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl1qSOZyQG6P56ZduHcThiuXNr9_DhGfwwkFPoH31iLxUjL1Bwq9IiSNIog_eNKHhoyrMudzN65Rs1hc6wFzjwi26BIhes6xPOybnmxbL4LK9cTGlyfv3pAMYi85UgY2j-tiPmxdqW3Z4/s1600/43639068_2706655712893376_6247402597754339328_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="352" data-original-width="236" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl1qSOZyQG6P56ZduHcThiuXNr9_DhGfwwkFPoH31iLxUjL1Bwq9IiSNIog_eNKHhoyrMudzN65Rs1hc6wFzjwi26BIhes6xPOybnmxbL4LK9cTGlyfv3pAMYi85UgY2j-tiPmxdqW3Z4/s400/43639068_2706655712893376_6247402597754339328_n.jpg" width="267" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial narrow" , sans-serif;">Ever had one of those days when everything goes wrong? Everything you touch turns to mush. You can’t make sound decisions. All you want to do is crawl back into bed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial narrow" , sans-serif;">Well, get up! Brush yourself off! Exhale! Make a fresh pot of coffee and drink up! Go to your quiet place… Whatever it takes to get back on track, do it! Don’t be conquered. You are the conqueror. You set the standards. You set the pace. You don’t know who is watching you. You don’t know who is looking up to you. You don’t know who is thinking “I want to be like her/him when I grow up.” You just don’t know. Therefore, seek and find the tiniest thread of hope- tie a knot and hold on. Push forward. Find the strength you need to continue. This slump you’re feeling is only temporary… just a block, not a bombardment. There is a difference.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial narrow" , sans-serif;">Find that passion you know you already possess. You haven’t lost it… only misplaced that fuel, fire, energy, the oomph to forge on. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial narrow" , sans-serif;">Also remember it’s okay to feel this way, as we are all human and have ‘those days.’ Just don’t wallow in self-pity. We all go through it. Don’t lose your focus. Don’t let anyone hamper or dampen your spirit.<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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So mixed up,<span style="font-family: "arial narrow" , sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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So confused<span style="font-family: "arial narrow" , sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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You’re hoping your heart<span style="font-family: "arial narrow" , sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Will not be abused<span style="font-family: "arial narrow" , sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Putting your trust<span style="font-family: "arial narrow" , sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Yet again in man<span style="font-family: "arial narrow" , sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Forgetting that only<span style="font-family: "arial narrow" , sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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One Man can<span style="font-family: "arial narrow" , sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Fulfill your hopes<span style="font-family: "arial narrow" , sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Fulfill your dreams<span style="font-family: "arial narrow" , sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Lord, please help<span style="font-family: "arial narrow" , sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Set us all free<span style="font-family: "arial narrow" , sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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From doubts<span style="font-family: "arial narrow" , sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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From fears<span style="font-family: "arial narrow" , sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Remind us of possibilities<span style="font-family: "arial narrow" , sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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If we’d listen and hear<span style="font-family: "arial narrow" , sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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The words… Your words<span style="font-family: "arial narrow" , sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Over and over again<span style="font-family: "arial narrow" , sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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‘I can do all things…’<span style="font-family: "arial narrow" , sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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And we know we can<span style="font-family: "arial narrow" , sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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If we block out all<span style="font-family: "arial narrow" , sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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The negativity of man<span style="font-family: "arial narrow" , sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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If complete faith and trust<span style="font-family: "arial narrow" , sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Is put in You<span style="font-family: "arial narrow" , sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Piercing our hearts<span style="font-family: "arial narrow" , sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Through and through<span style="font-family: "arial narrow" , sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Freeing the mind<span style="font-family: "arial narrow" , sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Freeing the spirit<span style="font-family: "arial narrow" , sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Of distrust when<span style="font-family: "arial narrow" , sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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We can’t get rid of it<span style="font-family: "arial narrow" , sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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And remind us too, that<span style="font-family: "arial narrow" , sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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‘This too shall pass’<span style="font-family: "arial narrow" , sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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When the fog clears,<span style="font-family: "arial narrow" , sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Free at last!<span style="font-family: "arial narrow" , sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Remember, the things<span style="font-family: "arial narrow" , sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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You go through<span style="font-family: "arial narrow" , sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Are trial and error<span style="font-family: "arial narrow" , sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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You can’t let it control you<span style="font-family: "arial narrow" , sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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With fear, with terror<span style="font-family: "arial narrow" , sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Let go, give Him<span style="font-family: "arial narrow" , sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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The okay to teach<span style="font-family: "arial narrow" , sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Again, lessons you have<span style="font-family: "arial narrow" , sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Already heard preached<span style="font-family: "arial narrow" , sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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That you are not alone<span style="font-family: "arial narrow" , sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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He’s got your back<span style="font-family: "arial narrow" , sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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That you are not infallible<span style="font-family: "arial narrow" , sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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And that’s a fact<span style="font-family: "arial narrow" , sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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That we are all human<span style="font-family: "arial narrow" , sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Emotions will come<span style="font-family: "arial narrow" , sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Even if we can’t identify<span style="font-family: "arial narrow" , sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Where they’re coming from<span style="font-family: "arial narrow" , sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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…just Emotional<span style="font-family: "arial narrow" , sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Blessings,</div>
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PJ Payne<span style="font-family: "arial narrow" , sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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PJ Paynehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15991425278976175596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6666987645157489960.post-47071428406234675062018-10-04T10:49:00.002-05:002018-10-11T07:46:04.918-05:00For Me...<div class="MsoNormal">
What do you do in the early mornings when you can't sleep? These are the very moments our Father is waiting for us… the quiet moments when intimacy is so important, no interruption. <o:p></o:p></div>
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So why do we become so annoyed when someone is hovering around us especially kids? Kids, normally do this when they are making an attempt to get our attention or our love in that lonely moment. YES, they need reassurance as well. This is exactly what God does with us. So the real question is who has taken up residence in your home? <o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR3KR0TDe20oduGy_RNuGmc3PWBowe_EaCtA4KJZ0n9gVwhFGcYu3hIlezBXWPKdsc9HLB52A0kaoQNQfcx3QPJCd_LffinFIMlAVxcTxwpEALajEWT23EKg4gv7AdyJNC_jRjjClc9Pg/s1600/43201737_159482554988239_668677067402903552_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="212" data-original-width="300" height="226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR3KR0TDe20oduGy_RNuGmc3PWBowe_EaCtA4KJZ0n9gVwhFGcYu3hIlezBXWPKdsc9HLB52A0kaoQNQfcx3QPJCd_LffinFIMlAVxcTxwpEALajEWT23EKg4gv7AdyJNC_jRjjClc9Pg/s320/43201737_159482554988239_668677067402903552_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Consider a marathon that you had no idea you had entered… not to lose weight or to change our outer appearance, BUT to make us remember who the ‘I Am’ really is. He is Jesus. He is the Good Shepherd who knows his sheep’s voice. He is the one who will open doors when we knock. He is the Son of God, He is the Light of the World. He is the Living Bread. Remember how we take the Lord's Supper? He is The Vine and we are the branches, He is the Way, the Truth and the Light! He is the Creator of ALL.</div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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Expressions of who HE is, become more personal for each of us depending on our needs for the moment. <o:p></o:p></div>
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For Me…<o:p></o:p></div>
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He is my Strength. <o:p></o:p></div>
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He is my Protector.<o:p></o:p></div>
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He is my Provider. <o:p></o:p></div>
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He is my Burden Carrier. <o:p></o:p></div>
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He is my Guide. <o:p></o:p></div>
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He is my Healer. <o:p></o:p></div>
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He is my Love. <o:p></o:p></div>
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He is my Friend.<o:p></o:p></div>
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He is my Teacher.<o:p></o:p></div>
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He is my Doctor.<o:p></o:p></div>
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He is my Judge. <o:p></o:p></div>
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He is my Forgiver.<o:p></o:p></div>
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He is my Pilot.<o:p></o:p></div>
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He is the air I breathe.<o:p></o:p></div>
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He is the gleaming sun.<o:p></o:p></div>
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He is the sand on the beach.<o:p></o:p></div>
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He is the one who gave freedom.<o:p></o:p></div>
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He is the one who calms my storms.<o:p></o:p></div>
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He is the one who suffered for me.<o:p></o:p></div>
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He is the one who will never leave me.<o:p></o:p></div>
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He is the one who will wipe away tears. <o:p></o:p></div>
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He is the one who never sleeps.<o:p></o:p></div>
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He is the one who gives me peace and shows me mercy.<o:p></o:p></div>
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He is the one who calms me in frustrating moments.<o:p></o:p></div>
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He is the one I seek.<o:p></o:p></div>
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He is my example of how ‘I Am’ to be.<o:p></o:p></div>
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He is who He says He is. <o:p></o:p></div>
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All we have to do is whisper His name and He is there. So, I ask you again, “Who is living in your residence?”<o:p></o:p></div>
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Have a blessed day!<o:p></o:p></div>
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(From the meditating mind of my beautiful and spiritual friend, Cindy)</div>
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PJ Paynehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15991425278976175596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6666987645157489960.post-14260686646673980082018-09-20T12:13:00.000-05:002018-09-20T12:13:12.338-05:00Scared...<div dir="ltr" style="background-color: white; color: #26282a; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Ever been so afraid that you just had to let the circumstances surrounding a situation, work itself out? I’ve learned that is called ‘Letting go and letting God.’</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7M07Ktq3aPeXaRCJaHLax1FdW34iqmbuvC3b2q0jm63MN94Pve4WuuIHrohB74tfGP9g8GcBVEHRPhPRO-dU0EYcgSo6VlB_hyphenhyphenSIpCQbvaKXpMnYcDlutSu-3E-vIj0Sa1NEHPRth0dw/s1600/Coffee+in+bed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7M07Ktq3aPeXaRCJaHLax1FdW34iqmbuvC3b2q0jm63MN94Pve4WuuIHrohB74tfGP9g8GcBVEHRPhPRO-dU0EYcgSo6VlB_hyphenhyphenSIpCQbvaKXpMnYcDlutSu-3E-vIj0Sa1NEHPRth0dw/s400/Coffee+in+bed.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Several years ago my daughter was going through some medical issues. As moms, we instinctively want to take care of our children, no matter how young or old. Being a young adult, of course, she didn’t want Mama hovering over her. BUT me, knowing my daughter, knew the real deal. Her voice said she wanted her Mama! So after I got the ‘I’m sick’ call and the ‘unsure’ reassuring phrase, “but, I’m ok,” I decided to pay her a visit and told her so. She hesitantly agreed.</span></div>
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<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Then I heard the latch on her door as it slowly opened. She stood there, looking totally bewildered and weak. I walked in with questions on my face. She asked, ”What’s the matter?” After I told her about the goings-on of the past hour, she explained that she had taken the meds she was prescribed, fell asleep, and the rest was blank… <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Fear- knowing something is wrong<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Fear- a void; The unknown<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Fear- the ultimate sense of being alone<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Fear- the unexpected, you can’t prolong<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Fear tears away at the strongest of us all<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Fear saturates the mind; you make wrong calls<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Anxious to know about the notion<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Anxious to see positivity in motion<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">But God doesn’t give us the spirit of fear<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Anticipated results are why we adhere<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Stop negations<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Stop that train of thought<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Have positive expectations<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">You shouldn’t and you ought<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Not think of things<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">That kill the spirit<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Because God is on it<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Listen carefully- hear Him<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">There’s nothing to fear<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">But fear, itself<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Mind over matter<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Just the mind</span><span style="font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">…Nothing else<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Trust Him,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">PJ Payne<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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PJ Paynehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15991425278976175596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6666987645157489960.post-37284658537562234132018-09-06T11:40:00.001-05:002018-09-06T11:40:12.253-05:00Coffee Thoughts<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoTSt_smw22qJ9CwSXUhT-5XtNvNGo9DIjSrlqyZ-DK6CJFkwaZ0Bo2RK6B0Lap8YA-eCfRpulRfsyHGlX5CAqguLfFxDvVTIxkbUYFfQ2cwLJjB4F7hdqZD3ewtFLJY1nffIBZiNltG8/s1600/coffee-outside-garden-table.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="334" data-original-width="500" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoTSt_smw22qJ9CwSXUhT-5XtNvNGo9DIjSrlqyZ-DK6CJFkwaZ0Bo2RK6B0Lap8YA-eCfRpulRfsyHGlX5CAqguLfFxDvVTIxkbUYFfQ2cwLJjB4F7hdqZD3ewtFLJY1nffIBZiNltG8/s400/coffee-outside-garden-table.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Have you ever just sat back and thought deeply about how everything around you is really so miraculously made? “That is what my ‘coffee thought’ is about today”. It doesn’t matter how much it rains, hails, sleets or snows, God forbids, His works are meticulously done.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">It is reminiscent of how I grew up in a little country town where everyone knew everyone, truly giving homage to the common adage, ‘It takes a village…,’ which brings me to this.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">As a child when my siblings, cousins and I would visit our grandparents, we didn’t really understand that we were there, supposedly to help them on their farm. Half of us didn’t know what we were doing anyway and considered it a fun vacation. I remember getting up bright and early in the morning, before the sun came up, grabbing a pail with chicken feed in it and taking it to the chicken coop to feed the chickens- the same chickens I’d chased the day before! But they laid the eggs I would eat later that morning for breakfast. The boys would ‘slop the pigs’ as they called it. But those pigs yielded the pork roast we would have for Sunday dinner. Or my grandfather would send my brother out, sometimes on wintry nights, to chop some wood to put in that old wood-burning stove. That firewood is what kept us warm when we would get up on those icy cold mornings.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">But my fondest memory is those carefree afternoons when some of us, usually the girls, would wander off into the field to play. My favorite game was to see who could find the first four-leaf clover. As I look back, I don’t think it really mattered who won, but my visual is lying in the grass, usually with wild flowers we had picked; naming the shapes of the clouds. I recall laughter and staring at the wondrous beauty God had created, from the towering trees to the birds and bees…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">In the beginning, He did it all! And now on my mornings, I remember. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Gloriously!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">I love my mornings<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">I love my days<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">And take into consideration<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">All the ways<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">That God has blessed me<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">To see another<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Of His great works<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">One way or the other<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">For this could not be<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Possible without Him<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">He did it all for me<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">On a wink and a whim<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">I’m taking it all in<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Absorbing its beauty<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Relishing in Him<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">What He does, without duty<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">And He didn’t have to do this<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">For you or me<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Dirty rags are we<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">At His feet<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">I thank Him and praise<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">His glorious works<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">For mine eyes to behold<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">As each morning lurks <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Again and again<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">It never fails<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Same time, descends<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">His Magnificence unveils<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Glory<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Blessings,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">PJ Payne<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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PJ Paynehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15991425278976175596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6666987645157489960.post-21407208191004790272018-08-16T12:04:00.000-05:002018-08-16T12:19:31.201-05:00Back to School?<div class="MsoNormal">
It's that time of the year and it came fast, didn't it? It seems summer just began! We've entertained children who have been eating us out of house and home for the past few months. There was never enough to do or enough time to do it, so we stretched and sacrificed... camps, vacations, VBS, swimming... you name it! Through it all, we enjoyed a long summer with our kids or grandkids. Most importantly, they enjoyed us. Some do not have the luxury of sharing extra time and bonding with parents who have to work, so when the opportunity avails, the literally 'eat it up'!</div>
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But do you realize, although they were out of school they were still in school? We don't realize this but we're teaching them all the time even when they're not in a classroom setting. We're setting examples! We're teaching them about habits, lifestyles, rights, wrongs, do's don’ts. We are a 'walking book!' So don't think just because children are out of school for the summer, they have no learning mechanisms <span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">besides phones, tablets, computers, play-stations… (some of which should be monitored).</span> Parents, grandparents, siblings, aunts, uncles, their friends, even our friends set standards and our children and they heed the protocol. They are fast learners!</div>
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<o:p>Children... </o:p></div>
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They watch what you do<o:p></o:p></div>
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They say what you say<o:p></o:p></div>
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They mimic and mime<o:p></o:p></div>
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My ways and your ways<o:p></o:p></div>
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They initiate progress<o:p></o:p></div>
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Introducing new subjects<o:p></o:p></div>
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Teaching you things <o:p></o:p></div>
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You’d never suggested<o:p></o:p></div>
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Sometimes agreeable <o:p></o:p></div>
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But disagree too<o:p></o:p></div>
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Telling you’re not ‘with it’ <o:p></o:p></div>
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Saying you’re ole school<o:p></o:p></div>
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Then they remind you<o:p></o:p></div>
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Of the used to’s and would’ves<o:p></o:p></div>
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Saying you did it at their age<o:p></o:p></div>
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Why NO now? You could’ve!<o:p></o:p></div>
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Yes, they prick memories<o:p></o:p></div>
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Of you at their age<o:p></o:p></div>
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Realizing their rebellion<o:p></o:p></div>
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I just a stage<o:p></o:p></div>
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A stage of growth, maturity <o:p></o:p></div>
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Release, and lessons<o:p></o:p></div>
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And you say “Thank you Jesus”<o:p></o:p></div>
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What a blessing<o:p></o:p></div>
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That in all your teachings<o:p></o:p></div>
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Examples, preaching<o:p></o:p></div>
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They’ll remember upon return<o:p></o:p></div>
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You taught them Jesus!<o:p></o:p></div>
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Blessings,</div>
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PJ Payne</div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
PJ Paynehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15991425278976175596noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6666987645157489960.post-33482900177960234842018-08-02T10:16:00.001-05:002018-08-02T16:05:06.100-05:00"If it Quacks Like a Duck..."<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Been there! Done that! Got the t-shirt!<o:p></o:p></div>
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As I sip my brew this morning, what goes through my mind is how conniving, devious, scheming and with all of that type of energy, how smart some people are.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIGr1MCVsyGgQTDFDMO-BfW8jkAStrNcAgW8s8q6XtCMDBL1lTNaiqTi9FsZN6ojdF-RF6RqGGmjPm9BhvSo1b2Y4Q-ukaYOTBnIN8GtluqLoh08JIDZpX6xRB84CpGVc6YUd2qg3kh8E/s1600/Working_on_laptop_in_coffee_shop_590.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="332" data-original-width="590" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIGr1MCVsyGgQTDFDMO-BfW8jkAStrNcAgW8s8q6XtCMDBL1lTNaiqTi9FsZN6ojdF-RF6RqGGmjPm9BhvSo1b2Y4Q-ukaYOTBnIN8GtluqLoh08JIDZpX6xRB84CpGVc6YUd2qg3kh8E/s400/Working_on_laptop_in_coffee_shop_590.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Recently I experienced an online situation and had I not been aware, I would have fallen for it hook, line and sinker. I was approached by a ‘gentleman,’ as I use the word loosely… He was ‘oh so charming.’ He was subtle, complimentary, open, spiritual… all those things a woman desires in a relationship, especially an initial meeting. I just couldn’t believe I had actually come across an individual whom I could relate to in so many aspects. PLUS he was intelligent; loved to write also. The icing on the cake was that he professed to be a Christian. Wow! It was as though he felt me and knew my heart.</div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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Here is an excerpt from one of our numerous communications… you be the judge.<o:p></o:p></div>
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He states...<br />
‘I can't recall when I had a more pleasant time talking to someone. Everything feels so natural about you and you sounded so easy going. It's hard for me to identify what it is about you that attracts me so much. I suppose it might be the combination of your charming personality and your good looks. Whatever it is, I can sense its presence. You could call it chemistry or better yet, the possibility that we are on the same wavelength.</div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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I am a very outgoing and fun loving man, with a passionate and generous heart. I try to find the lesson in every situation. Situations of joy, pain, sorrow, love etc., have made me grow emotionally, mentally, physically, and spiritually. I am dedicated and committed when it comes to a romantic relationship... I want to be in a relationship where she brings out the best in me, and I in her. I would rather be hurt with the truth, than a lie. I want a woman to see me as her equal. Did I mention that I have many different types of smiles? There's a food smile, a guilty smile, a loving passionate smile, a cooking smile, Lol.<o:p></o:p></div>
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I just find so much to be happy about and sometimes it's the littlest of things. I love surprises! I love giving presents and giving surprises. Actually, I just like giving. I have been told that my energy is infectious and addicting and that I am full of passion. I am looking for a woman who knows who she is. I've learned that communication is the key to a relationship, so she must be able to talk and not hold things in until they blow up. I do not want someone who I will control. Everyone is entitled to their emotions and feelings. I am a big cuddler and romantic. I want those things which money cannot buy- respect, love, honesty, generosity, communication, chemistry, passion, humility and tolerance---to name a few.<o:p></o:p></div>
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I want you to know all about me… I am an open book.’<o:p></o:p></div>
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And this type of communication went on for a few days… He was free with his phone number and where he lived. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Hmmm, and your conclusion?<o:p></o:p></div>
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Mine was ‘you’re full of it!’ I MUST admit that at first, it was intriguing and had my ears perked. But as soon as he began to mention traveling, not home much, working overseas… then the ultimate---MONEY. BINGO!! Good-bye.<o:p></o:p></div>
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I am a very private person, but I divulged this little chapter from my experiences to possibly make some of you, (women or men) aware that scammers and schemers come in all colors, shapes, and sizes. But God gives us ALL we need to sniff out those who don’t mean us any good. Our tool is discernment. If you're a lady and want to generically give it a label, then a ‘woman’s intuition.’ In any case, use it. <o:p></o:p><br />
"If it quacks like a duck..."</div>
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Blessings</div>
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PJ Payne<o:p></o:p></div>
PJ Paynehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15991425278976175596noreply@blogger.com0