Having What It Takes To Lead!

In observing what people do in leadership positions, and knowing that I see myself in a leadership position, I decided to ask others–what character traits they thought should be seen in a good leader. Though this is not a scientific poll or survey, it does provide insight as to what people expect in leadership. Thanks Facebook Friends for the following:

Joel Rutherford FTA which was in a book by the Dali Lama and I totally agree with; F=Fairness to all T=Transparency… openness in whats expected from both followers and the leadership A=Accountability for the actions of everyone in the group no matter their role.

Eyandra Otis Easy to talk to, open to all opinions and suggestions, has been through some type of struggle, relatable, patient, not afraid of making mistakes, put there own mistakes in the open.

Joey Iceberg Nelson Forthright and bold

Lorraine Horowitz-fenchel Ability to compromise with and respect others and not exploit the worst aspects of the public but appeal to our better selves.

Elena Greer Decisive yet laid back and open

Darolyn Brown A sense of fairness and common sense; a hunger to learn; and the ability to comprehend abstract ideas; persistence; and the greatest of these is the capacity to love.

Mary Ann Freeby Let’s start with sanity, compassion, integrity, the ability to comprehend, listening skills, a desire to serve others, empathy, accountability, reasoning skills and honesty.

Sue Burns Crill 1. Being especially cognizant of your level of patience & waiting until someone is through speaking….holding your tongue, even…..figuratively & literally, if necessary. Asking when the speaker is silent: Is there anything more you would like to … add to that?
2. Actively soliciting & listening intently (take notes, even) to ideas from your t.e.a.m. (yes, constituents too), but remember there is no “I” in team…..it is: OUR team did great…..never MY team.
3. Respect & never deflect.
4. Be your kind, caring, loving self.

Melanie Woodrich Humility, honesty, passion, empathy, gumption, creativity, and integrity.

Honest, Open (transparent), Fair, Caring, Loving, Accountable, Empathetic, Sincere (listening skills), Authentic (respectful of self and others, humble, reflective),  Team-Player, Selfless, Attentive, Focused, Determined, Assertive, Thoughtful, Considerate, Service-minded, Goal-Oriented, Pragmatic-optimist, Relatable, Compassionate, Teachable.

The summary (rephrased for brevity) is my conclusion as to what people intended. Now, if I’m to do a self-assessment with this information–I’d have to say, I fit most of the criteria–I have what it takes to be a good leader. Now, does that mean I know everything I need to know? Absolutely not–but I’ve got a good head start!

More than anyone else, I recognize all my imperfections, but I also realize that no one walking the earth is perfect and that there is always room for improvement. That being said, I welcome comments (from those who know me well enough to make a sensible comment) and I look forward to hearing what all have to say.

How will I use the comments made? Not to get angry or cynical, but to reflect upon what is said and make adjustments where warranted. I see myself as a very honest, forthright person and some might say aggressive, but I stand firm on being assertive. I’m right until proven wrong and when proven wrong, have no problem owning the correction. I know how to apologize to others when needed, but I try very hard not to put myself in a position in which I end up doing anything that needs an apology. There is one exception to this–I will not–under any circumstances–apologize to TraitorDon for anything I’ve said about him. He is the absolute epitome of corruption and power-hungry bigotry. He deserves no apology from any sane individual who is not a trumplican. And for those who would say, we have to forgive others–you forgive him. He knows not the Christ I know and love, therefore, I have no obligation to treat him like a bonafide Christian according to the Words of Christ.

When a person is responsible–directly or indirectly–for the loss of life–they deserve no consideration and since my grandchildren will be negatively impacted by this menace’s decision because of his hatred of Obama–he can enjoy his eternity in the lake of fire prepared for all liars. Make no mistake about it–trump is the menace to society, the enemy of the people, and the leader of bigoted racists.

If you need further understanding of who I am and what I have to offer America in the Oval Office as an Everyday American–check me out facebook.com/YesIAm2020 and then, let’s connect and talk.

Advertisement

Evangelicals Are Tired Of Living!

Many Evangelicals have conned their congregations into believing God determined that Donald J. Trump should be president because he would usher in the second coming of Christ and they believe that establishing an embassy in Jerusalem will bring it to pass. In essence, they want the end to come based upon John’s revelation which means they’re tired of living.

When the thousand years are over, Satan will be released from his prison and will go out to deceive the nations in the four corners of the earth–Gog and Magog--and to gather them for battle. In number they are like sand on the seashore. They marched across the breadth of the earth and surrounded the camp of God’s people, the city he loves. But fire came down from heaven and devoured them. And the devil, who deceived them, was thrown into the lake of burning sulfur, where the beast and the false prophet had been thrown. They will be tormented day and night for ever and ever. Revelation 20:7-10 NIV

He said to me: “It is done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. To the thirsty I will give water without cost from the spring of the water of life. Those who are victorious will inherit all this and I will be their God and they will be my children. But the cowardly, the unbelieving, the vile, the murderers, the sexually immoral, those who practice magic arts, the idolaters and all liars–they will be consigned to the fiery lake of burning sulfur. This is the second death. Revelation 21:6-8 NIV

There is a great deal more that is revealed to John, but since I’m trying to make a point about the lie perpetuated by many church leaders, I won’t spin my wheels trying to extrapolate it. The bottom line is–since the Evangelicals believe trump is the impetus to bringing about the return of Christ–they are also acknowledging he is anti-Christ (Satan, the devil) because according to scripture, it is when Satan is loosed and most of us–Christian and non-Christian believe trump is the epitome of the anti-Christ because nothing he does–is Christ-like and certainly does not reflect his belief or willingness to do as Christ would do.

Now, many may argue my point and that is certainly their right, but I’ve never seen anyone as divisive, vile, and ego-driven as trump or his idolatrous worshipers who are filled with hateful bigotry. They are the ones who need to be concerned about the end since they will miss heaven. What they have overlooked is, there will be no “new Jerusalem” until all the old has been destroyed and at that time–there will be no need for walls or war–because the reference is to our lives in heaven.

I can’t speak for every Born-Again believer who truly conducts themselves as followers of Christ, but I can speak for myself. I am appalled at the atrocity Evangelicals have instigated by lying to their flocks. They have misled and misdirected so many people into believing the lie that many are prepared to “kill others” because of their idolatrous worship of trump. But I am not their judge, God is–the God of heaven, not the god of this world who has deceived them and is now, laughing out loud at their folly. They may not see it, yet, and may not even see it before their demise, but it will be noted in the books of history and certainly noted in the records of heaven.

The Evangelicals in the 21st Century–are the contemporary Pharisees who are not interested in all developing and maintaining a life with Christ–doing good, but in controlling what people think and do. They have been deceived and are not willing to admit their mistakes and tell people the truth. They don’t have to tell people the truth; there are many of us who continue to tell the truth–Evangelicals have lied to their congregations and are apparently, tired of living. Well, since they’re tired of living, they should effectuate their deaths and leave the rest of us alone. The end will come–but only when God decides, not them. But we have to give them credit where credit is due–their choice (not God’s) in supporting trump is leading to the destruction of the earth and God will hold them accountable for that.

For the rest of us who are not tired of living, but have hope in the future and a desire for our children and grandchildren to enjoy the planet–we have work to do and we don’t have time to wait for if we delay–for any reason–we perpetuate the nonsense being spewed by those Evangelicals who are tired of living. It is time to Resist the evil that confronts and unite to conquer the evil with love and compassion, driving out all the hate and bigotry.

 

We Do Have Choices!

No matter what “traditional thinking” is regarding tribalism when it comes to politics–we do not have to vote for a person just because they’re in the “right party” or because of their political careers or celebrity status or their gender. What should be important to all, in any election, is the candidate and what they stand for. (Shudder now known tribalists).

I know there are some who say we should vote for those with political experience. The problem with that is–if those are the only people we vote for–no one else ever gets a chance to learn how to govern. We cannot be expected to know or understand those things to which we have never been exposed. However, committing to being a life-long learner puts in a position to learn and do. After all, what’s the point of learning things if we never have an opportunity to apply what we’ve learned.

Therefore, in the 2018 election cycle–there are many people who have never entered into politics before now but chose this moment and hour to make a difference. Not only will this hold true for the 2018 election election cycle, but for 2020 election cycle and every election cycle afterwards until the United States of America is truly governed by, the people–the Everyday Americans–who understand what is needed for all.

Since the Republican party–(Conservatives or whatever they choose to call themselves) have abdicated their responsibility in allowing a fascist to run rough shod over America, it’s time to let them rest and reconsider the role they could have to play in American politics. In order to make sure we fully root out the problems–I think the Republican party needs a 20 year rest–just enough time for them to regroup and rethink what it means to be an American and who Americans are. Until they understand this–they should never be in a position to legislate laws or govern anyone, but themselves.

In essence–in order to purge the evil intent, greedy corrupt malefactors from Congress and local governments all over the country–the #BlueWaveTsunami is a must–to save humanity and our planet.

No matter what ethic group we identify with or gender or religious group–no matter what our political party affiliations are–we are all Americans and we should respect all Americans whether we agree them or not–it’s called “choice.” We do not have to denigrate those with whom we disagree nor do we need to try maligning them to make ourselves look better. In fact, any time we have to resort to “dirty political tactics” by dredging up every known and unknown thing about a person, we have wasted precious time and resources that could have been used to exalt what we want others to remember us by–where we stand and why.

So, here’s the point of this particular blog post–I am a Black woman who is daring to entertain the idea of running for president in 2020. Some have said, I won’t make it because my limited political experience; some have reminded be of the odds against me simply because I’m a Black woman, and some don’t think I can withstand public scrutiny and daggers thrown by those opposing my run.

They have a point–though I began this exploration with limited political experience, I’m gaining insight as to what I need to know by becoming a precinct delegate and being appointed to my city’s Zoning Board of Appeals Commission. I’m competing training modules provided by the National Democratic Training Committee and learning from those who have already cleared the path. I will be the 8th Black Woman or the 9th Black woman to run for president (if Kamala Harris gets her paperwork in before me). Being a Black woman is not going to deter me from seeking to do good–it never has and it never will.

I have a heart to save and a desire to push America forward and help prepare everyone to handle the technological challenges and in restoring our global position with other nations. I am an Everyday American, with no political baggage, no celebrity status, and no desire to be a “bought” candidate. No one can bribe, bully, or blackmail me about anything. And yes, I am an imperfect human being, which makes me a Flawed But Fearless Fighter for justice for all. I’ve accomplished quite a bit in my life and I don’t plan to stop accomplishing until I’m dead (in about 34 years from now). For the rest, if anyone wants to know more they can simply review where I stand on facebook.com/YesIAm2020 or do a search on my name. Nothing new can dissuade me and nothing old will deter me from my destiny in 2020. Win or lose (and I do plan to win), I’m making the case for everyone–to exercise their right to choose–remembering we do have choices.

I’m choosing the candidates I know will fight for all–not because of gender or party, but because of who they are in 2018. I hope in 2020–people will do the same–and vote for an Everyday American–in every election–to govern all Everyday Americans.

A Voice In The Wilderness!

John replied in the words of Isaiah the prophet, “I am the voice of one calling in the wilderness, ‘Make straight the way for the Lord.’  John 1:23 NIV

We know of course that John the Baptist was speaking of Jesus–then. But there are many voices that are getting lost in the wilderness of noise designed to create and promote confusion. The noise–is the distractions that are constantly getting in the way of people being able to see and hear clearly what must be heard.

For those who think–“a fallen tree in the forest when no one was around to hear it doesn’t make noise,” you are deceived. There is noise when a tree falls–the animals hear and are usually alarmed and scatter. In fact, whenever there is a noise in the quiet of a forest–disrupting the peace of normalcy–the animals scatter—hiding until they think it’s safe to reappear.

Our democracy–and the fair and free election process–has fallen in the midst of the noisy distractions created by the corrupt GOP who desire people to ignore it. They have done everything possible to distract from the truth–attempts to suppress the vote during the election (successful in some places), through intimidation and lies about polling locations changing, trying to claim “voter fraud” when they were backtracking to make sure their fraudulent practices were not discovered (they were), to deliberately reassigning boundaries to keep themselves in power (courts are assessing). They are the distraction and “WE THE PEOPLE” must be the voice in the wilderness that gets heard.

We must stand up and speak out against the manipulations and corruption we see deployed by elected officials on all levels–locally and nationally.

When elected officials lie, we must call “BS” immediately and confront them with facts and truths (which most of them don’t want to hear).

When the menace in the White House–consistently demeans and maligns the press and those in America who don’t support him, we must speak with a loud voice and remind him–this is America and if he doesn’t like the Rule of Law and our Constitution (which he has violated multiple times), he is always free to leave and go stay in Russia or anywhere else he admires dictators.

In America–Signers of the Constitution understood how the voice of freedom could get lost in the noise of those who want to dictate and control others. They understood the consequences of anyone getting into a position to become a dictator because they came to this country to escape the foot on their necks by a monarchy.

Our voice–in the midst of the chaos and corruption we see and hear all around us, must be heard in our vote–in every election–for if we do not exercise the right to vote–at all times–we lose our voice and the noise suppresses truth and freedom.

To better understand what is happening in America, check out the electoral map of every state and realize what the GOP have been planning with the help of those who suppress truth and promote lies. Their goal–to rewrite the Constitution so it only benefits rich, white males. It’s time all of America does their own research, using reliable, credible sources–in order to make a logical, rational decision in coming elections.

This is our time (EveryDay Americans) and we can prove how important our voice is by promoting an avenue for every voter to educate themselves about the issues and who really cares about them. We cannot afford to allow the noise to suppress our voices–it’s time to show up and show out at the polls–creating the Blue Wave Tsunami–so we can no peace in the land, again.

If no one else will do it–I shall–and I won’t be silenced by threats, hatred or bigotry or the noise of those who attempt to silence me. I am a true American Patriot and I will not allow–without a fight–the loss of our democracy to be “the blood on my hands.”

I’m interested in building bridges that lead to stronger relationships for all Americans, not constructing walls of absurdity, hatred, and bigotry. What’s your goal?

 

I’m Mary Hall-Rayford and I approve this message and will continue to be A Voice In The Wilderness!

Rejecting Wisdom Is What Fools Do!

The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, but fools despise wisdom and instruction. Proverbs 1:7 NIV

Get wisdom, get understanding; do not forget my words or turn away from them. Do not forsake wisdom, and she will protect you; love her, and she will watch over you. The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding. Proverbs 4:5-7 NIV

Does not wisdom call out? Does not understanding raise her voice? Proverbs 8:1 NIV

for wisdom is more precious than rubies, and nothing you desire can compare with her. Proverbs 8:11 NIV

Whenever we need to grasp a better understanding of what we are seeing in Washington, DC, reading Proverbs reminds us that those who lack wisdom are the fools in charge–for now.

How did this happen? Gullible people–fearful, hateful, and spiteful–decided to believe all the disinformation and misinformation promoted by the racist bigots with the help of Russian trolls.

Though many did not like Hillary Clinton (actually hated her), they hated her without justification based upon the political, tribal agenda of the Republicans. Had they listened to her, and accepted the wisdom they did not agree with–this country would not be a laughingstock in the eyes of other nations. Whether people liked her or not–she told us exactly what would happen if the menace in the White House was elected.

She warned of his being triggered by tweets.

She warned of his authoritarian–dictatorial mentality.

She warned us that he would lie about any and everything.

She warned us that his hatred would reign in his decisions.

She warned us that any tax reform would only benefit the rich.

She warned us that millions would be without adequate healthcare.

She warned us that budget slashes would affect the poor and the needy.

She warned us that he would turn on the LGBQT community.

She warned us that he was Putin’s puppet.

She warned us that his ego would lead us into places wise men would not go.

Isn’t it amazing how God references wisdom in the “feminine” voice! This refutes the notion that God views women as inferior to men.

Since we cannot go back in time and change anything, it is time we sought wisdom and stopped thinking we know it all–like the rest of the fools.

Obtaining wisdom leads us to understanding why right-wing evangelicals felt the need to lie to their congregations and are still lying to America–at those to those who bother to listen to them.

Obtaining wisdom leads us to understanding why we should never take our democracy for granted since we see the results of a wanna-be dictator trying to dismantle our Constitution.

Obtaining wisdom leads us to understanding why we should research information for ourselves and not allow the opinions of a few–especially those with distorted views–feed us information that will eventually lead to our destruction.

Obtaining wisdom leads us to listening to those who are far wiser than we are, whether we agree with them or not–it should make us stop and think–critically–of what it is we’re hearing.

Hopefully, we have seen so much foolishness that we will certainly acquire the wisdom needed to right the wrongs and set America back on the track of greatness and honor. We can exercise wisdom in the coming elections by analyzing what has occurred and concluding what could result if the party of grand old prevaricators stay in power. They have proven they will not uphold their oaths of office and do their job by covering for the pathological liar, making excuses for his incompetence and hatefulness.

Determine now–that never again–will we allow anyone to mislead us and encourage us to vote for political candidate out of hatred, bigotry and fear. For the those of us who claim to be Christians–we should know, “perfect love cast out fear.” Where there is fear, a fearful heart, and unjustifiable fear of people–there is no love. Where there is no love, people live in darkness for love is light in dark places. Where there is love–unconditionally–for all people–there is no room for hatred and bigotry.

Determine now–that we will walk in love towards all people–endeavoring to live at peace with the world, learning to disagree, agreeably–not with malice in our hearts. We will walk in wisdom in coming elections–voting for the person who cares about all people–not just a group–and one who consider policies that benefit all–not just some. America is “one nation” composed of many diverse people–all of whom have much to contribute to our society and our ability to thrive as a nation.

The person we next elect as president of the “United” (not separated/divided) States of America should be an Everyday American who knows and understands the struggles and challenges of Everyday Americans and one who will fight for the rights of all Everyday Americans without denigrating or maligning others.

I am an Everyday American. I cherish and embrace wisdom and know how to reject foolishness. I know I can serve the needs of all Everyday Americans regardless of political affiliations, gender, ethnicity, or faith. My loyalty will be to the people, not a party and I will work with all who choose to serve Americans.

Regrets–We’ll Have A Few!

So the LORD said, “I will wipe from the face of the earth the human race I have created—and with them the animals, the birds and the creatures that move along the ground—for I regret that I have made them.” Genesis 6:7 NIV

“I regret that I have made Saul king, because he has turned away from me and has not carried out my instructions.” Samuel was angry, and he cried out to the LORD all that night. I Samuel 15:11 NIV

I can only imagine who is regretting their support of the White House maniac. I didn’t vote for him, but I do regret not working harder for Hillary and to expose all the false propaganda published about her. I did what I could, but perhaps, I could have done more and we would not be in the outhouse, now!

I know there are some who have regret voting for him because they’ve already expressed “buyer’s remorse.” They realize, a bit late in the game, that hatred is never an appropriate reason to either not vote or vote for a person who made it known–he was a jerk.

Are we allowed to have regrets? Absolutely! God expressed His regret over making mankind, but fortunately for us–He repented of His thoughts and left behind a remnant to replenish mankind. Although, looking back at all we’ve done to make a mockery of His love and in destroying the planet, I wonder if He regrets leaving us here, again.

At then Samuel, bless his heart, when he heard the Word of The Lord–regretting making Saul king, he got angry. You see, here’s the thing. God speaks to all who are willing to hear Him and sometimes, we won’t like what we hear. Now, we can either act on what we hear or not–our choice since God doesn’t force anyone to do anything.

Have the White Evangelicals admitted regret for lying to people and promoting an absolute traitor to this country? Some have, some haven’t. When analysts from Fox News, throws up their hands–it’s time for everyone to take notice at what’s really going on in the White House.

It’s not that difficult to figure out–Vladimir Putin owns donald trump aka John Barron aka David Dennison aka Rumplethinskin and aka–treasonous traitor. Whatever Putin has on him has him petrified. I can imagine–every time someone calls the White House–he soils himself–thinking that might be the last call before total exposure–what he’s done–hits the fan.

The real problem–is not learning what hold Putin has on Rumplethinskin–is knowing we could end up in war as a distraction to keep us from learning what it is. Desperate people do desperate things and we know–Rumplethinskin is not capable of thinking beyond the moment–so there will be no consideration of the consequences of his actions for America–just like there has been none with the implementation of extraneous tariffs on China. The Consumers will pay and pay dearly. Feeling any regrets now?

If regret is not an emotion being felt by the masses (at least the 35%–his base), give it a minute and then start crying for your sons and daughters who will dies in a senseless war because you elected a person (can’t call him a man) with no sense.

If we make it to January 2019, we’ll have a chance to survive. If we don’t–I won’t regret trying to warn people even though the evidence may disintegrate in the nuclear fallout. That’s something to think about because once started, nothing good can come from a nuclear war and certainly, no opportunity to regret–anything. It will be too late.

Well, I’ve certainly learned my lesson–about trying harder to prevent catastrophe–I’m not giving up my quest without a fight–a fight to restore the good name of America and our rightful place on the global stage.

We do not have a president at the moment and our elected Congress–has no balls or integrity or we’d not find ourselves in the position we’re in right now. But there is a Little Known Educator who has a remedy.

When everyone gets out to vote in every election from hence forth, the vote should go to whoever is running as a Democrat in order to save the nation from the authoritarian fascist that wants to control this country as a dictator.

If we all work together, setting aside differences–we can do this–set America back on track–without risking our freedoms–or leaving them in the hands of one (in this case–two).

Don’t live with regrets–get out and vote and encourage family and friends to vote for the party that cares about all.

 

No Collusion?

The Republicans on the House Intelligence (oxymoron) Committee has determined there is no evidence of collusion on the part of anyone in the trump campaign–a conclusion they announced with the termination of their investigation.

I’m not an attorney, but I’ve worked with a number of them and it seems to me that this conclusion is premature at best–complicit at worse:

When there is an investigation of anyone to determine any wrong doing, all stones should be looked under to see what may be there. Since there were a number of “witnesses” who refused to answer questions–claiming “attorney-client privilege” when none existed and since the chairman of the Intel committee refused to subpoena them, they did not conduct a thorough investigation. Of course, Devin Nunes has his own reasons for terminating the investigation. The truth was about to reveal his part in the complicity of the Russian meddling.

Here’s the thing, no matter what happens from this point forward–Republicans are not to be trusted in any public office and no one who is sane should ever consider voting for them again.

There has never been as much turmoil and stupidity running rampant in the White House, spilling over to Capitol Hill as there has been since January 21, 2017. Putin’s influence and sway (whatever it is) over trump is costing this country dearly and at this point–no other country or world leader should trust us since we have proven, we can’t be trusted to handle our own domestic affairs.

But we can earn the trust back with upcoming elections. We must elect responsible adults to be in public offices and right now that means–we elect Democrats–who care about all people. We must vote blue in special elections, the midterms in every state and again in 2020–to elect a president who thinks with their brains, not their guts.

Of course, the final verdict about “conspiring against America” has yet to be made and even when Mueller makes it–we cannot count on the Republican-led Congress to do its job and divest themselves of any so-called loyalty to trump. But a flipped House and Senate–Democrats leading–will put America back on track and we will see beneficial change for all.

Who am I that any should believe me? Take a little time and do some research and discover–who I am and where I stand. I am an American with heart, compassion, and a desire to address every need of other Everyday Americans. Right now, I am a LittleKnownEducator, but give me a few months and all of that will change.

My name (remember it well) is Mary M. Hall-Rayford and I approve this message!

Sometimes I Want To Quit!

“For with God nothing will be impossible.” Luke 1:37  NKJV

Every once in a while, I feel like quitting–trying to make a difference for others is extremely hard work–when fighting against the odds or rather the people who hate becomes overwhelming. But then, in my quiet time, I meditate on The Word and remember–as long as God is in the plan, nothing will be too difficult for us (not just me) to accomplish!

Don’t get me wrong–for those who don’t believe in God–that’s your belief and I won’t challenge it, but I believe in my relationship with God and I know–as long as I’m willing to listen to Him, I can’t go wrong. I also know–God is not coming down from His throne to do anything–He has always worked through people and He always will–until He returns to take us home with Him for all eternity.

So, I’m looking for some of those people who are willing to be used–by God and in my presidential campaign efforts. I need to have a conversation with an experienced Campaign Manager and Finance Director. Notice, I said conversation since nothing is written in cement (FEC) and won’t be until November 7, 2018, but  I need to be ready to go, not getting ready to go forth. If this is you–visit and leave a comment on http://www.facebook.com/YesIAm2020.  Read through the material depicting my stance and let me know what you think.

No matter what happens, I’m not going to stop caring about all people, loving all people, and working to make sure all people are treated like human beings–no hate or haters, not fearmongering, just love! So, even if I feel like quitting sometimes, I won’t. This time in my life is far too important for me to quit.

 

The Reason For The Season!

In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. This was the first census that took place while Quirinius was governor of Syria.) And everyone went to their own town to register. So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them. And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.  Luke 2:1-11 NIV

Those of us who understand that being a Christian means we follow Christ know why we celebrate this season. We are not concerned with saying, Merry Christmas or Happy Holidays (specifically for the secular segment of society) but in knowing that at some point in time, over 2000 years ago, we were given the greatest gift that could ever be given, and it couldn’t be purchased in a mall for any amount of money. The birth of a Savior, God coming in the likeness of sinful flesh, to save all who choose to believe in Him. Though He made the sacrifice–giving His life for ours almost 34 years later–we still celebrate His birth for without it–there would not have been a crucifixion or a Resurrection–paving the way for us to enter into Heaven.

Today, on the eve of the celebration for many of us–I just wanted to remind people that we do indeed have a reason to celebrate this season for it had not been for The Lord, where would we be?

Fortunately, for us–He loves us enough to respect our choices in doing whatever we do–whether He approves our choices or not–He respects our right to choose–both what we do and the consequences. I really wish–we who proclaim to be Christians–followers of Christ–not people–could get to that same place of understanding. We don’t have to agree or approve what others choose to do, but we should respect their right to choose–just as God does.

Personally, I’m thankful that God allowed me to choose some of the paths I’ve taken in life–though I know He didn’t approve–He allowed me to make the choices and deal with the consequences and in dealing with those consequences, I learned just how much He loves me. Who are we to get in the way of those who will learn from the consequences of their choices, no matter what they are?

I encourage all Christians (true Believers) to think about how we can best encourage (not command or make) others to believe in the Savior we know. The best sermon–as many have said before me–is the one we live, not the one we talk about. If I never utter another word about how good God is–I would hope that everything I do–says it much louder than I could ever hope to say and more people would turn to Him–not me, because of who He is!

This is the time of year we should think even more about the plight of others and make a commitment to help those who are simply not in a position to help themselves. Thoughtfulness, consideration of others–is one way we can live The Word, instead of just talking The Word.

For tomorrow–I’m spending time with family–as I prepare our dinner–doing things that families do. I’m praying for peace in the world and joy in the hearts in every person and for those who feel abandoned in shape or form, know that there is someone praying for you and if I knew who you were, I’d invite you to share our dinner because we always find room and food for more.

Enjoy this day doing your last minute shopping! Stay safe and alert for the enemy would love to steal your joy by destroying hope and faith in Jesus by influencing someone to do a dastardly act. And then spend tomorrow loving others and enjoying life while we live. Luv2LuvU!

 

 

The War Declared on America–Before 2016!

Before the election in November 2016, a coup was being planned by Russian operatives (with Putin’s blessings), and the Republican leadership, with Donald J. Trump and they declared war when they chose to accept financial support from Russian Oligarchs, with knowledge aforehand for Wikileaks to engage in questionable practices of cyber pilfering, conspired to rig the election in their favor. With the additional assistance of paid trolls and bots — they effectively duped and conned gullible “Hillary Haters” into believing all the nastiness they produced and promoted on social media, convincing them to vote for The Rapist.

On November 8, 2016 — with all the plans in place — the war ensued and the noxious Republicans were the victors and now they plan to gather the spoils of their war by further raping and pillaging the Treasury of the United States with their Tax Scam Bill. The tax cuts designed to “repay donors” will eventually dilute and diminish revenue sources needed to keep the government afloat, but that wasn’t enough for the Corrupt Greedy Old Predators. They also made sure they benefited mightily from the changes in tax structure so that while it seems the middle class benefits (if they make over $100K a year) — they don’t. Only the rich benefit — the poor and vulnerable will probably not survive for the next ten years. Cuts to healthcare assistance, education, and the roll back of consumer protection regulations will Kill Millions in America. The deaths of millions of America won’t bother the warmongers because then, they won’t have any opposition to Resist them and America will cease to be a democratic republic, but instead will be a dictatorship — led by Greedy Old Predators — who prey on the poor and vulnerable — no heart or compassion residing within.

Knowing the gullible will not read a 503 page document, the Greedy Old Predators proceed to lie to them, holding out a carrot of a couple of thousand dollars saved a year (for only one year), without explaining the tax cut is a temporary measure for them, but a permanent for the corporations whose CEOs have said, they don’t need the tax cuts and they will not invest the savings into creating jobs. Trickle-down economics has never worked and it won’t work now.

In addition to pilfering the Treasury (by The Rapists and the millions billed to the treasury), the Greedy Old Predators are also sitting back, twiddling their thumbs while The Rapist plans to ruin our national monuments and encroach upon Native American land — without thought or consideration as to what the damage will do — their only concern — is greed and since The Rapist is used to filing bankruptcy — it won’t bother him at all to bankrupt America, but the Greedy Old Predators are too blinded by their own greed to see what’s about to happen. At least that could be true of many, but certainly not Paul Ryan who has chafing at the bit to gut social security and medicare — probably because they serve as reminders to his start in life — a start he’d like to forget and pretend he’s been “in the money” most of his life. How cruel and abominable their actions are against the vulnerable in our country!

But it’s not just the Greedy Old Predators in Congress to helped to bring about this demise of a great country by first nominating and then electing a sexual predator — the Evangelicals — the “holier-than-thou” misfits who promoted the narrative that God chose The Rapist. Apparently, they meant the god of this world, not the God of Heaven because the God of Heaven would not choose anyone who doesn’t know Him to do any great thing. Regardless of what the Evangelical community spouts — The Rapist is not a Christian and won’t be no matter how many times they “lay hands on him and pray.” The devil is a liar and we know The Rapist belongs to him.

It is ideological premises that have led us to this place — “those wearing the label of Christianity, yet know not how to do the work of the label” and not true Christianity. True Christians know that God is love and that He has commanded us to love one another and to defend the rights of the poor and the needy — not the greedy.

It is the existing tribalism in Congress that will keep us in a place of subservience with the Greedy Old Predators in charge. They would rather vote in lock step with The Rapist rather than make country and their constituents a priority in their decision-making.

All of this has been said before — in many different ways — but saying it again and as often as needed, will hopefully cause the gullibles to wake up and smell the stench coming from the White House and determine to do something about it — while they have a chance. That chance will arrive on November 6, 2018 — for us to create a Blue Wave Tsunami and truly take our country back from the Greedy Old Predators and The Rapist — recovering our status with world leaders who think we have collectively lost our minds by allowing such an abomination reside in the White House.

We can do this and all it takes is for everyone who can read and think to consider joining other Everyday Americans and setting this stagecoach upright — reclaiming our time! We need fair and balanced decision-makers in Congress, not tribalism and certainly not Russian plants.

Join us as we establish a Coalition of Everyday Americans For Everyday Americans in 2020. We’ll be in charge and every voice heard and every issue addressed with no one disrespected or belittled or maligned.