February Devotional

February
“Unconditional Love”

There are many things I’ve learned about dogs since acquiring Domino. One of them is their amazing ability to give unconditional love. I may be tired – not in the mood to play or do much with Domino, but he always shows his love for me. He does this with doggie love licks, his adoring eyes, and the wagging of his big, bushy black tail. There is no doubt in my mind of his love for me. Interestingly, he is usually the first one to show the love, and I follow along after his example. Even when I’m tired, Domino’s love for me revitalizes me and fills my heart with such wondrous love.

God was very smart to create dogs.

A moment of wonder: I should never forget the unconditional love the Father shows for me day-by-day, hour-by-hour, and even minute-by-minute. He provided the supreme sacrifice by the giving of his Son so that I may experience eternal life. Now that is love!

Meditate on: LOVE

Scripture: I Corinthians 13:13
“And three things remain…love, hope, and faith…and the greatest of these is love…”

Words of Wisdom

Dear Gentle Readers:

I have been a long-time fan of George Carlin (May 12, 1937 – June 22, 2008). My husband, Tim, and I saw Carlin twice in Vegas. Shortly before Carlin's death, I saw his performance at Bass Hall (March of 2008). While some of his routines can be "bawdy", here are some genuine pearls of wisdom from a man who, in my opinion, had a very keen insight into human nature, and was not afraid to call it as he saw it. Thanks, George, for the memories.

• We have more degrees, but less sense; more knowledge, but less judgment; more experts, yet more problems; more medicine, but less wellness.
• We drink too much, smoke too much, spend too recklessly, laugh too little, drive too fast, get too angry, stay up too late, get up too tired, read too little, watch TV too much, and pray too seldom.
• We have multiplied out possessions, but reduced our values.
• We talk too much, love too seldom, and hate too often.
• We've learned how to make a living, but not a life.
• We've been all the way to the moon and back, but have trouble crossing the street to meet a new neighbor.
• We conquered outer space, but not inner space.
• We write more, but learn less.
• We plan more, but accomplish less.
• We've learned to rush, but not to wait.
• We build more computers to hold more information, to produce more copies than ever, but we communicate less and less.
• These are the days of two incomes, but more divorce; fancier houses, but broken homes.
• These are days of quick trips, disposable diapers, throw-away morality,one night stands, overweight bodies, and pills that do everything from cheer, to quiet, to kill.
• Remember, say a kind word to someone who looks up to you in awe, because that little person soon will grow up and leave your side.
• Remember, spend some time with your loved ones, because they are not going to be around forever.
• Remember to give a warm hug to the one next to you because that is the only treasure you can give with your heart and it doesn't cost a cent.
• Remember to say, "I love you" to your loved ones, but most of all mean it. A kiss and an embrace will mend hurt when it comes from deep inside of you.
• Remember to hold hands and cherish the moment for someday that person will not be there again. Give time to love, give time to speak, and give time to share the precious thoughts in your mind.

Spring in Haiku

I realize that it is still officially winter, but spring is right around the corner. With that in mind, and to welcome and usher in the new season, I offer this haiku for my readers' enjoyment.

Buds burst forth with joy
in new-found rays of sunshine
Spring has come once more

Birds feast at feeder
water at nearby birdbath
Beauty of nature

Flowers in spring dress
revel in splendid color
Nourishes the soul

Pristine sky of blue
spring in her skirt of green grass
summer is patient.