tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36028375515048240712024-03-08T07:20:48.047-06:00Family MattersObservations on the family from a stepfather, birth father, foster father, adoptive father, and grandfather who has committed much of his life to child and family advocacy.Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger20125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3602837551504824071.post-67488601504743400322012-12-14T14:01:00.002-06:002012-12-14T14:01:17.369-06:00Trained to Kill Kids?
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<span style="font-size: 16pt;">I offer this commentary as the facts of the events
surrounding the horrendous tragedy that occurred only hours ago resulting in
the unthinkable killing of many young children at a Connecticut elementary
school.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 16pt;">My view of this tragedy evolves from a multi-faceted
perspective. I am as a retired U.S. Army Officer and criminal investigator with
extensive background in prevention and investigation of crimes as well as
criminal behavior. And in recent years I
serve as a child advocate, adjunct university professor. But most importantly I am a father birth,
adopted, step and foster children. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 16pt;">Many people are asking, “Why”, “What would cause anyone to take the
lives of so many innocent children.” As I write many of the facts surrounding
this heartbreaking tragedy are yet to be discovered. And while I am not a
prophet my nearly forty years in the roles I shared above causes me to come to
some troubling conclusions.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 16pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: 16pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">The
perpetrator(s) of this horrendous taking of life was immersed in a <i>culture of death. </i>Movies, music, games
and much more were contributors.</span></li>
</ul>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 16pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: 16pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">Chances
are that the family setting from which the killer(s) was raised was problematic
which include broken relationships, absence of a father figure, drug or alcohol
abuse, and the lack of discipline.</span></li>
</ul>
<!--[if !supportLists]--><br />
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 16pt;">There are other factors that I may share in the future. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 16pt;">I mentioned a <i>Culture of
Death. </i>But in reality look at our
society. We are all living in this
disturbing culture. Life no longer has
the value experience by passed generations.
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 16pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: 16pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">Each day
hundreds of acts of violence appear during prime time on our TV screens.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 16pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: 16pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">Millions
of unborn babies are murder in the U.S. and called, “a woman’s right to
choose. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 16pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: 16pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">“Assisted
suicide” is being promoted at being caring and the humane thing to do.</span></li>
</ul>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 16pt;">And I could name dozens of other contributors to our devolving culture. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 16pt;">I, like you, may feel hopeless at time.
Particularly when tragedy strikes.
But I can assure you that there are answer. It is not found in academic
institutions. It is not found in
government bodies. It is not found in
programs prompting non-violence. The
answer is found in a volume of sixty-six books that I often refer to in
teaching graduate students. It is a
classic filled in wisdom and answers.
You probably have heard of it, <i>The
Holy Bible. <o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 16pt;">If this were a classroom and you were the student your homework would
be:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin-left: 38.0pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo3; text-indent: -20.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size: 16pt;">1.<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 16pt;">See
answers from God through His divinely inspired writings of the Holy Bible.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 38.0pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo3; text-indent: -20.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size: 16pt;">2.<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Read <i>Kids Who Kill</i> authored by Mike Huckabee.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-left: 38.0pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo3; text-indent: -20.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size: 16pt;">3.<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Read Stop
Teaching Our Kids to Kill by Lt Col Dave Grossman and Gloria DeGaetano.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16pt;">Class dismissed. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<!--EndFragment-->Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3602837551504824071.post-8195425458394692972011-11-10T19:35:00.001-06:002011-11-10T20:00:18.515-06:00Sexual Abuse - Protecting Your Child<br />
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">Sexual Abuse - Protecting Your Child</span></b></div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;"><br /></span></b></div>
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Safeguarding our children should begin very early in
life. And many safeguards are dependent
upon the parent actions in a variety of ways. Here is a limited list of some of the
considerations.</div>
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</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span>Don’t insist that your child hug or kiss
relatives or friends. Allow then to
express appropriate affection on their terms.</li>
<li><span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span>Let your child know that their feelings are
important. Intervene in situations where
you notice that a child is not comfortable with what adults ask them to do.
However, this is not a means by which a child should escape their
responsibilities such as cleaning up after themselves.</li>
<li><span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span>When a child is a toddler begin teaching them
the proper names of body parts.</li>
<li><span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span>As a preschooler begin teaching your child about
private body parts and how to say “no”
if anyone attempts to touch them or makes them uncomfortable. Give then direct
answers about sex.</li>
<li><span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span>In the early elementary years talk to children
about good touches and bad touches and how to be safe when away from home.</li>
<li><span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span>By late elementary school focus on teaching
your child about personal safety issues.</li>
<li><span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span>In the teen years discuss issues such as rape,
date rape, HIV, pregnancy and other sexually related topics. Take advantage of
“teachable moment.”</li>
<li>Know where your child spends their time.</li>
<li>Make unannounced visits to the nursery, daycare
center or school. Make sure there are not areas considered off limits to
parents.</li>
<li>Determine if your child’s school or church
programs require child protection training for staff and volunteers. What is the staff and volunteer screening
process? Is there a two-person rule
which limits your child being alone in a one to one situation with another
adult?</li>
<li><span style="font-family: Symbol;"><span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span>DO NOT allow a child to go alone on a “vacation”
or other outing with any adult other than parents or highly trusted family
members.</li>
<li>DO NOT allow your child to travel alone with any
adult to school, church or other destination.</li>
<li>DO NOT allow your child to accept expensive gifts from adults, particularly those who single them out.</li>
</ul>
<br />
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<b>Please do not hesitate to post specific questions. </b> </div>
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<br /></div>
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In my next post I will address a growing area
of risk; the internet and other electronic means of communications. </div>
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<br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3602837551504824071.post-33830889050454088012011-11-09T10:49:00.005-06:002011-11-09T14:06:06.675-06:00<br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Child Sexual Abuse – Consider the Reality</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;">In light of the recent reports of child sexual abuse
by a trusted coach with Penn State I am sharing some important insights that ALL
those who have responsibilities for children should consider. But this is much more than opinion.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;">What I am sharing is based on my background,
training, and experience as a:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';">
</span></span>Retired
criminal investigator that have investigated crime against children in the U.S.
and abroad.<br />
<span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';">
</span></span>Developer
and instructor of a national child sex abuse investigation training program.<br />
<span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';">
</span></span>Foster
parent who has provided a safe haven for more than 30 children.<br />
<span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';">
</span></span>Leader
in a child welfare agency.<br />
<span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';">
</span></span>As the
parent of two daughters who were stalked by a sexual predator now serving a
length prison<br />
sentence.</div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"> I can assure
you that child sexual abuse is a threat to <b>every family with children</b> in
America. I have seen the worst of the worst.
Please understand, <b>child sexual abuse is a <i>silent epidemic</i>! <o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;">It can happen to any family. You can never be too vigilant.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Symbol;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';">
</span></span>90% of
child sexual abuse victims know the perpetrator in some way; 68% are abused by
family members.<br />
<span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';">
</span></span>Child abuse occurs at every socioeconomic level,
across ethnic and cultural lines, within all religions and at all levels of
education.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;">In
the past I have personally taken into custody a physician, a clergyman, a scout
leader and a elementary school teacher. <b>Please understand the typically child sex
offender is a well respected member of society, is a skilled communicator, very
friendly and engaging and often well educated.<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 16px;">In
a future blog post I will address what parents and others responsible for the
well being of children can do the protect the children they love.</span></div>
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<br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3602837551504824071.post-57443758240326629322011-10-25T21:33:00.002-05:002011-10-26T06:33:12.856-05:00Limitations + Unlimited God = Results<br />
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</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 16px; line-height: 32px;">Isn’t it
amazing how God can use brief moments in time to teach us valuable lessons? I experienced such a moment not long ago. It
was only minutes before the beginning of a Sunday morning time of corporate
worship. As the time drew near the chatter began to subside within the church
worship center. Those standing began to
fill the pews. I too was sliding in a
pew with my family. I took a deep breath after a rushed morning. Knowing how easily I can be distracted I whispered
a short prayer<i>, “Lord help me to focus on
you and not those around me.” </i> </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 16px;">Then
came the unexpected lesson. His lesson would
be brief but quite impacting. God did not provide a theme for the teaching. But I will call the <i>lesson,</i> <b>“Limitations + Unlimited God = Results”</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 200%;">Even
though I prayed for no distractions, a distraction immediately happened. My eyes locked onto a young man and woman coming
down the aisle beside me. The man was leading with the woman following. He was talking. She was silent. The scene passing me brought a smile to my face
and joy to my heart because there was much more taking place than movement and
words. This couple was quite dependent
on each other. And their dependence was quite obvious to others as well as myself.
You see, the man, a quadriplegic, was in a wheelchair. The woman was acting
as his arms and legs but controlling the wheelchair. But the woman was equally dependent on the
man. She needed his eyes because she was
blind. Her white cane tucked under her arm.
Together their progress was
smooth and steady. The sighted man was the navigator instructing the lady “pilot”
when and where to turn and at what point to stop. The young lady was the source of power and control moving
them toward their destination. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 200%;">God
reminded me though this act of mutual support how all of us have limitations or
so-called <i>disabilities. </i>Many of our limitations are not as
visible as those of these two children of God.
But regardless of our inabilities we all have something to contribute in
service to others. This couple had a common goal; join with others in
worshiping their Lord. I reflected on
the reality that God sees what we cannot. His power is unlimited and can take us
to destinations that we could never conceive, not to mention achieve without Him. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 200%;">As I
continued to ponder what I had observed in two Christians with visible limitations my thoughts turned to my two adopted children.
Both came to us as foster children.
Both entered life with what many would say were “two strikes against
them.” And both have been given labels of, “disabled’, “special needs” and “handicapped.”
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 200%;">Neither
my wife nor I had initially planned to provide them with a “forever family.” We were just seeking to help needy children for a season. But we not only discovered that they needed us.
We needed them; much like the couple needing each other as they moved down the aisle at church. God used these two foster and later adopted
children to challenge us, strengthen us and mold us for His glory. God has blessed us through them in ways to
numerous to count. Yes, there has been great heartache and at time even fear. The pain and trials have been many. But through it all there is an unexplainable peace
and joy. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 200%;">But even
before we adopted these two precious children God adopted us. And it is only because of His adoption of me
that I have the power to move forward in spite of my limitations. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 16px;">So, what
are your limitations? Who is guiding
you? Who is providing the power to move you forward? Think about it.</span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3602837551504824071.post-52612760642329593022011-09-25T21:28:00.000-05:002011-09-25T23:20:39.976-05:00<br />
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<b><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">“I Couldn’t Do That To
My Own Children”</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"> “Oh Bob, I
couldn’t do that to my own children.” This is a statement I sometimes hear when
talking to people about the possibility of ministering to needy children as a
foster parent. When I hear comments like this I silently pray, “Thank you,
Lord, for allowing me to be a foster parent and what it has done to my
children.” Following is two of many reasons why I offer this prayer of
thanksgiving; two of my daughters. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"> Today, I have
two married daughters whose lives were intertwined with dozens of foster
children for two decades. From their earliest childhood experiences,
seldom do they remember a time when foster children were not a part of our
family. If you sat down with these two young women today and asked, “How did
being a part of a foster family impact your life?” the response would be
something like, “God blessed me as part of a foster family and helped shape me
into the person I am today.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"> Our oldest
daughter was a “big sister” to dozens of children. I believe that because she
was in an environment with so many younger children, she developed leadership
and nurturing skills even before she entered elementary school. As she
grew she went on to become a leader in her high school and university and
as an educator and mentor for at-risk children. After serving as a mentor
for at-risk teens, she was approached by a school administrator asking her to
consider teaching in an intercity school with a highly diverse student
body. Later, as she interviewed for the position, she was asked
about how she would deal with the challenges of a diverse student population
where many of the students are from at-risk families. Her response
was something like, “As long as I can remember I have been a part of a family
with a diverse population where many of the children were from at-risk
families." Because of her ability to adjust to all sorts of
situations she was offered the job, and she readily accepted the
challenge. After just one year in the classroom with many troubled
youth, she was named “New Teacher of the Year” in her large school system.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"> And her husband
is a servant as well (a good reason she was attracted to him). He has served
his country as a U.S. Air Force Officer since graduating from
college. But his servant spirit began years previous as a
firefighter and life guard. As I proudly watch him work together
with my daughter in parenting <i>my</i> beautiful granddaughter and
handsome grandson, I am most thankful.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"> Another reason
for me to be thankful took place several months ago. I observed my
second daughter and the young man who is now her husband at a gathering of
adults interested in orphan care. While they where the youngest
adults in attendance, they knew much more about the plight of orphans than some
twice their age. The ministers, community leaders, adoptive and
foster families, and others child advocates all shared with others in
attendance why they came to the gathering. Near the end of the
“share time” my son-in-law (who has been around our family for years) and daughter
captured the attention of the group as they expressed their calling to reach
out to needy children. Their passion for needy children was expressed with not
only words but also tears as well. You see, both of them had “been there – done
that.” They had not only heard about needs, they had touched and had been
touched by the lives of the less fortunate in their community and beyond. This
daughter and son-in-law had regularly traveled to serve children in an area
that is labeled “poorest county in the U.S.” This daughter also worked at an
orphanage in Uganda, cared for the children of young widows in our own
community, and nurtured hundreds of children in a large church’s preschool
ministry. Now with a degree in early childhood education, she
continues to impact the lives of little ones. And my new
son-in-law? Well, he is serving in an intercity church that has as
one of its focuses, at-risk youth.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"> Yes, when my
wife and I first became foster parents our oldest daughter was very young. And
yes, we were somewhat concerned about how fostering would impact our daughter
and later our other birth children. In fact, our adopted son, who was severely
abused as an infant, came to us as a foster child and was adopted the same
month our second daughter was born. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"> All families,
regardless of the composition, have challenges and we have not been the
exception. However, looking back over the last twenty-five years we
could not have imagined the positive impact that growing up as foster sisters
would have on these two grown daughters.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"> Finally I would
like to say I am so thankful what God did through foster parenting to my wife
and I and these two grown daughters. Blessings do not always come to
us as we expect. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3602837551504824071.post-79434560437828587462011-09-23T13:12:00.001-05:002011-09-23T13:12:52.551-05:00Does Father Know Best?<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="color: #000066; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Father Knows Best</span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">For He knows our frame; He remembers
that we are dust.<br />
</span></i><b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Psalm 103:14</span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">From October 3, 1954 'til September
17, 1960, father knew best. On 203 television episodes of <i>Father Knows Best</i>,
Jim Anderson was the go-to guy for his family. Whether an episode's crisis
revolved around Jim's wife, Margaret, or the three
children—"Princess," "Bud," and "Kitten"—Jim was
the man with a plan, week after week. Viewers knew that, within the space of a
half hour, the most faithful and consistent father in America would always come
through.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Christians also have a Father who
knows best. And He knows best because He knows us so well. It should be an
amazing source of comfort to every believer that they are known and loved
intimately by the God who created them. "Episode after episode" in
our lives, God is there to provide solutions and support in the way that He
knows is best. The solutions may not come in a half hour like they did in the
original TV show, but they will come—even if the solution is "No" or
"Wait." God's answers are not given primarily for our comfort but for
our conformity to Christ (Romans 8:29). <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">If you have a question or a crisis,
take it to the Father who knows you best. You can trust His response, whatever
it is.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><br />
<i>What is a Christian? . . . The richest answer I know is that a Christian is
one who has God as his Father. </i><br />
<b>J. I. Packer</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3602837551504824071.post-18227975772444975312011-05-05T12:38:00.001-05:002011-08-17T14:23:45.813-05:00Charity and Children<br />
<div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;">The key to teaching generosity is for parents to be a positive model of generosity. Demonstrate generosity in all areas of your life. Then help your children catch the habit.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;">“Example is the school of mankind, and they will learn at no other.” Edmund Burke</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin-left: 0in;"><b><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;">1. </span></b><b><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;">Give to your church.</span></b></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-left: 0in;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;">Provide money to young children to give through their Sunday School class or during worship services. But first explain to them why they should give.</span></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-left: 0in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;">“We are the Bibles the world is reading; We are the creeds the world is needing; We are the sermons the world is heeding.”<i> </i> Billy Graham</span><b><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"></span></b><b><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;">2. Donate clothes and toys.</span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;">Take your children on a survey of their clothing and toys. Select items to give to their church clothing ministry, the Salvation Army or other charity providing to the needy. Allow them to select which clothes or toys they wish to donate. The value of this activity is diminished greatly if you go through their closets for them without their presence. For maximum benefit, get your children involved in choosing the appropriate items. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-left: 0in;"><b><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;">3. Help a neighbor.</span></b><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><br />
Regularly engage in a service-oriented project. Rake the leaves of an elderly couple. Send “care package” to someone in your community in military service. Bake cookies or bread for a neighbor who has been hospitalized or lost a loved one.<a href="http://thinkexist.com/quotation/children-are-like-wet-cement-whatever-falls-on/365710.html"><span style="color: windowtext; text-decoration: none;"></span></a></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;">4. Give blood.</span></b><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><br />
Take your children with you so they see you as a model for giving. Talk to them about why you choose to donate blood and what you hope it will accomplish to do so. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;">5. Make birthdays charitable.</span></b><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><br />
Set up birthday parties as a time for giving to others. Help your child find a cause and encourage children to ask those attending the party to bring a gift for children in need. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;">"The most effective kind of education is that a child should play amongst lovely things." Plato</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><u></u></span></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in;"><b><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"> 6. Deliver nutrition.</span></b><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><br />
Build food baskets around the holidays and give them to a needy family suggested by your church. Involve your children in selecting canned goods, fruit, and other treats to include. Decorate the gift package and deliver it together, as a family.</span></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-left: 0in;"><b><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;">7. Change for a difference.</span></b><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><br />
Create a charity jar to be used by the family when allowances are distributed. Invite children to share some of their allowance with others through donating to the jar. As the jar fills, decide as a family where to contribute the contents. Read about various charities on the Internet and share this information with your children to help them make an informed decision. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;">8. Help elders.</span></b><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><br />
Do things for the elderly that they have trouble doing for themselves. Pick up sticks in your neighbor's yard after a big windstorm. Mow the grass for Grandma. Wash Grandpa's car. Clean their windows in the spring. Help them plant flowers. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;">9. Have a yard or garage sale. </span></b><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;">Engage your child in the process including selecting toys, books, clothing and other items for the sale. With your child decide what percentage of the money received will go to meeting the needs of others and what cause. A lemonade stand or selling baked good during the sale is a good way to engage children directly in the project.</span></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin-left: 0in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in;"><b><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;">10. Water for workers.</span></b></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;">During hot weather buy some bottle water. With your child place the water in a cooler. Then go for a drive around the community looking for construction workers or others exposed to the heat of summer and offer them a drink.</span></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;">Children are the world's most valuable resource and its best hope for the future." John F. Kennedy</span></div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-left: 0in;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3602837551504824071.post-72658805191729425092011-05-05T09:35:00.002-05:002011-05-05T10:05:57.279-05:00Scamming During Disaster<div class="MsoNormal"><br />
<div class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: #374f5c; font-size: 12pt;">Regrettably there are many scams that take place in the midst of disasters that generous people are seeking to help. Here are some precautions to consider.</span><span style="color: #374f5c; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;"></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><ul><li><span style="color: #374f5c; font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt;"></span><span style="color: #374f5c; font-size: 7pt;"></span><span style="color: #374f5c; font-size: 7pt;"> </span><span style="color: #374f5c; font-size: 12pt;">Normally, give to charities that you are familiar with and you have supported in the past.</span><span style="color: #374f5c; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;"></span></li>
</ul><ul><li><span style="color: #374f5c; font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt;"></span><span style="color: #374f5c; font-size: 7pt;"> </span><span style="color: #374f5c; font-size: 7pt;"> </span><span style="color: #374f5c; font-size: 12pt;">Make contributions directly to known organizations rather than relying on others to make the donation on your behalf.</span><span style="color: #374f5c; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;"></span></li>
</ul><ul><li><span style="color: #374f5c; font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt;"></span><span style="color: #374f5c; font-size: 7pt;"></span><span style="color: #374f5c; font-size: 7pt;"></span><span style="color: #374f5c; font-size: 12pt;">Get a receipt, whenever possible, with the name of the charity on it.</span><span style="color: #374f5c; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;"></span></li>
</ul><ul><li><span style="color: #374f5c; font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt;"></span><span style="color: #374f5c; font-size: 7pt;"></span><span style="color: #374f5c; font-size: 7pt;"></span><span style="color: #374f5c; font-size: 12pt;">When receiving online requests, only open email attachments from trusted senders.</span><span style="color: #374f5c; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;"></span></li>
</ul><ul><li><span style="color: #374f5c; font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt;"></span><span style="color: #374f5c; font-size: 7pt;"></span><span style="color: #374f5c; font-size: 7pt;"></span><span style="color: #374f5c; font-size: 12pt;">Make sure the organization is legitimate. Go directly to the organization’s website and not an alleged link to the site.</span><span style="color: #374f5c; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;"></span></li>
</ul><ul><li><span style="color: #374f5c; font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt;"></span><span style="color: #374f5c; font-size: 7pt;"></span><span style="color: #374f5c; font-size: 7pt;"></span><span style="color: #374f5c; font-size: 12pt;">Be very cautious of individuals claiming to collect funds for the needs of a specific family or individual including those claiming to have established special bank accounts.</span><span style="color: #374f5c; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;"></span></li>
</ul><ul><li><span style="color: #374f5c; font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt;"></span><span style="color: #374f5c; font-size: 7pt;"></span><span style="color: #374f5c; font-size: 7pt;"></span><span style="color: #374f5c; font-size: 12pt;">Ask what percentage of the gifts will go to the intended purpose.</span><span style="color: #374f5c; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;"></span></li>
</ul><ul><li><span style="color: #374f5c; font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt;"></span><span style="color: #374f5c; font-size: 7pt;"></span><span style="color: #374f5c; font-size: 7pt;"></span><span style="color: #374f5c; font-size: 12pt;">Be very cautious of those soliciting money in person, by phone or in emails that allege that they represent fire fighters, law enforcement or other first responders. Many scams exist.</span><span style="color: #374f5c; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;"></span></li>
</ul><ul><li><span style="color: #374f5c; font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10.5pt;"></span><span style="color: #374f5c; font-size: 7pt;"></span><span style="color: #374f5c; font-size: 7pt;"></span><span style="color: #374f5c; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;">Do not provide personal or financial information to anyone who solicits contributions; this could lead to identity theft.</span></li>
</ul><ul><li><span style="color: #374f5c; font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt;"></span><span style="color: #374f5c; font-size: 7pt;"></span><span style="color: #374f5c; font-size: 7pt;"></span><span style="color: #374f5c; font-size: 12pt;">Avoid cash donations. Whenever possible, pay with a check or credit card directly to the charity.</span><span style="color: #374f5c; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;"></span></li>
</ul><ul><li><span style="color: #374f5c; font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt;"></span><span style="color: #374f5c; font-size: 7pt;"></span><span style="color: #374f5c; font-size: 7pt;"></span><span style="color: #374f5c; font-size: 12pt;">When providing gifts-in-kind of clothing, relief items and other tangible property, make sure that those receiving the items represent a legitimate organization. Some will collect items that are not being provided to the intended users.</span><span style="color: #374f5c; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;"></span></li>
</ul><ul><li><span style="color: #374f5c; font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt;"></span><span style="color: #374f5c; font-size: 7pt;"></span><span style="color: #374f5c; font-size: 7pt;"></span><span style="color: #374f5c; font-size: 12pt;">Legitimate nonprofit organizations can found at </span><a href="http://www.guidestar.org/"><span style="color: #2d7ea9; font-size: 12pt;">www.guidestar.org</span></a><span style="color: #374f5c; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;"></span></li>
</ul><ul><li><span style="color: #374f5c; font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10.5pt;"></span><span style="color: #374f5c; font-size: 7pt;"></span><span style="color: #374f5c; font-size: 7pt;"></span><span style="color: #374f5c; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;">For more information on scams can be found at </span><a href="http://www.lookstoogoodtobetrue.com/"><span style="color: #2d7ea9; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;">www.LooksTooGoodToBeTrue.com</span></a><span style="color: #374f5c; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;">.</span></li>
</ul><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: #374f5c; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;">If you believe you have been a victim of a charity related scheme, contact the National Center for Disaster Fraud by telephone at (866) 720-5721, or by fax at (225) 334-4707, or by e-mail at disaster@leo.gov.1 </span><span style="color: #374f5c; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;"> </span><span style="color: #374f5c; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;"><br />
<br />
You can also report suspicious e-mail solicitations or fraudulent websites to the Internet Crime Complaint Center at www.IC3.gov.</span></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3602837551504824071.post-7304919370259480472011-05-04T14:21:00.002-05:002011-05-04T15:08:25.394-05:00Protecting Children of the Storm<div class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Protecting Children in the Aftermath of Disaster</span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">The historic tornado outbreak of April 27, 2011 has not only changed the physical landscape of the Alabama but the <i>landscape </i>of families as well. Parents and others charged with safeguarding children must understand that while the very young can be quite resilient they must be protected <i>after</i> disasters as well. And there are special threats that need consideration.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;"> We are seeing a great outpouring of compassion and generosity all over the region. Neighbors, churches and local charities were the first on the scene to offer a helping hand. With each passing day more help arrives to the stricken areas. Situations like these bring out the best in people. But there are a small percentage of people who will attempt to cause additional harm by preying on our children.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;"> From my decades of experience as a law enforcement officer, criminal investigator, foster parent and serving with Alabama’s most diverse and comprehensive, faith-based child and family service agency <a href="http://www.blogger.com/www.alabamachild.org%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20">www.alabamachild.org </a> I can assure you that <u>those who would prey on our children are often the least suspected</u> and often include those well known to the victims and their families. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Ironically, last weekend I was scheduled to conduct training for hundreds of church leaders providing weekday care for children in schools, day cares and other weekday activities. I will share with you a brief glimpse of what I would have shared with childcare providers.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;"> Sexual Predators</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;"> As with all states, there are thousands of convicted sex offenders in Alabama. While some have been discovered, many live and work among us undetected. Sexual predators will often attempt “infiltrate” churches, charities, schools and other organizations serving children. Here's just a few ways to help protect "Children of the Storm."</span></div><ul><li class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">If you know a family staying in a disaster shelters insure that they are vigilant in knowing where there children are at all time. Shelters provided by the American Red Cross <a href="http://www.redcross.org/">http://www.redcross.org/</a> and the Salvation Army <cite><a href="http://www.blogger.com/www.salvationarmyusa.org/"><span style="font-style: normal;">www.</span><span style="font-style: normal;">salvationarmy</span><span style="font-style: normal;">usa.org/ </span></a></cite> are among those who know the risk related to children and seek to provide adequate security and safeguards. </span></li>
</ul><ol start="1" type="1"></ol><ul><li class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Churches are second only to the public school system in the number of children served weekly. Yet, churches are vulnerable because they are a community of trust. Child predators sometimes seek affiliation with churches to access children. Ask the church providing disaster services for children whether or not they follow Child Protection First or similar policies. A sample of this policy can be found at <a href="http://www.alsbom.org/clientimages/36469/sbom_offices/leadercare_church_administration/protectingchildrenandyouthfromsexualmisconductinyourchurchcorrect.pdf">http://www.alsbom.org/clientimages/36469/sbom_offices/leadercare_church_administration/protectingchildrenandyouthfromsexualmisconductinyourchurchcorrect.pdf</a></span></li>
</ul><ol start="1" type="1"></ol><ul><li class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">When seeking childcare verify that all employees and volunteers with unaccompanied access to children have undergone a background screening. A sex offender central registry check is available at no cost through your county child protection agency. In Alabama, contact the county DHR Office. You can find the location at <a href="http://www.dhr.alabama.gov/">www.dhr.alabama.gov</a><b> </b></span></li>
</ul><ol start="1" type="1"></ol><ul><li class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Insure that the child care facility has a child identification procedure that will prohibit unauthorized people from "checking out" children without proper authorization.</span></li>
</ul><ol start="1" type="1"></ol><ul><li class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">If you suspect anyone of preying on children, abusing or attempting to abuse a child in anyway contact local law enforcement or your child protection agency. In Alabama a list of the county offices can be found at to <a href="http://dhr.alabama.gov/">http://dhr.alabama.gov/</a></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></li>
</ul><ol start="1" type="1"></ol><ul><li class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span>If you know of children whose parent(s) is/are hospitalized or were killed in this disaster and are not in the care of a legal guardian contact your county child protection agency.</li>
</ul><ol start="1" type="1"></ol><ul><li class="MsoNormal">To learn who the registered sex offenders are in your community each state maintaining a database with public access. In Alabama the registry is found at http://dps.alabama.gov/Community/</li>
</ul><ol start="1" type="1"></ol><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">For more information on protecting children in life’s storms please feel free to contact me.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">In a future post I plan to share about the emotional health of children following disasters. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Blessings,</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Bob</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3602837551504824071.post-89814120530198643502011-04-09T19:37:00.000-05:002011-04-09T19:37:09.016-05:00Jesus Love Me - Not Just Kids Stuff<div class="MsoNormal">For decades the Lord has placed needy children in my life in a variety of ways. First as a criminal investigator dealing with child abuse. Then, by God's divine direction, as a foster parent and later an adoptive parent. Today I have the privilege of playing a role in the lives of thousands abused, abandoned and neglect children.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">During this journey, <i>Jesus Love Me</i>, has offered much promise. I have sang this song at bedtime thousands of times for my five children and dozens of others. But it is much more than a simple child's song. As the late Paul Harvey would say . . ."And now - the rest of the story.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">The song that has been at the center of teaching children about the love of Jesus was not created out of a desire to create a new song. <i>Jesus Loves Me</i> became a reality out of despair. The writers, Anna and Susan Warner were quite rare in 19<sup>th</sup> Century. They were financially secure and well educated in a time when women were seldom afforded the opportunity for advanced schooling. While the girls were motherless since childhood they were extraordinarily close to their father who was a most prominent New York Attorney. These girls had no worries and few responsibilities. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Since there home was near the U.S. Military Academy at West Point they often spent their time teaching Sunday School for the cadets. Through this experience they began to catch a glimpse of the commitment of these young men preparing to serve their country.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Then in 1857 a national economic depression wiped out the Warren’s investments. All the material possessions with the exception of the family home were lost. Mr. Warren never recovered financial or emotionally from the losses. Not long after Mr. Warren died.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">In order to provide for their back needs the Warren sister invested their considerable education in writing. With a flair for fiction they wrote a novel, <i>The Wide Wide Word</i>, which became a best seller in a very short time. They continued to write but none of their works would have such world-wide influence as did Anna’s writing of <i>Say and Seal</i>. While the book itself would not go down in history as an America great its contribution has been long lasting. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">In <i>Say and Seal </i>there is a scene in which a kind gentleman, Mr. Linden, comes to the bedside of a dying child, Johnny Fax. As the child looks up at Mr. Linden for some kind of strength and hope Mr. Linden pats the boy softly while reciting the words of a poem</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 2in;">Jesus loves me! This I know, <br />
For the Bible tells me so;<br />
Little ones to Him belong,<br />
They are weak but He is strong.<br />
<br />
Jesus loves me! He who died,<br />
Heaven's gate to open wide;<br />
He will wash away my sin,<br />
Let His little child come in.<br />
<br />
Jesus loves me! loves me still,<br />
When I'm very weak and ill;<br />
From His shining throne on high,<br />
Comes to watch me where I lie.<br />
<br />
Jesus loves me! He will stay,<br />
Close beside me all the way;<br />
He's prepared a home for me,<br />
And some day His face I'll see.<br />
<br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">These where the last words the boy would hear before his death and the most touching part of the hundreds of pages of the <i>Say and Seal</i>.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Warren’s writing about trials and death and the love of Jesus and the promise of eternal life were her testimony. And the writing was likely inspired by the looming Civil War. She knew that the North and South would likely come to blows over state rights and slavery. Many of the young men she had taught in Sunday School at West Point would face death or grave injuries. Therefore, the words of the poem <i>Jesus Loves Me</i> was as much for the readers as for the imaginary Johnny Fax.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Well, among the readers of <i>Say and Seal</i> was William B. Bradbury, one of the most influencial forces in American church music. On an evening in 1860 Bradbury sought to escape from his work with music and read a good book. Yet when he read <i>Say and Seal</i> he was inspired to create music to accompany the words of the poem <i>Jesus Loves Me</i>. He immediately went to the piano and began composing the melody. But sensing this was not enough he grabbed a pen and began writing a simple chorus.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 2in;"><i>Yes, Jesus loves me!<br />
Yes, Jesus loves me!<br />
Yes, Jesus loves me!<br />
The Bible tells me so.</i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 2in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">With Warren’s permission he quickly published what would become an important children’s song. But little did he know that this would be the most important song he ever brought to the American people.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">During the Civil War <i>Jesus Loves Me</i> quickly spread across the battlefield. At night time when battles were few soldiers would often gather around a campfire and sing <i>Jesus Loves Me</i>. The song could be heard echoing on both sides of the battle lines. Meanwhile, children and adults where singing this new hymn in churches, in schools and community gatherings. During the four year period of the Civil War <i>Jesus Loves Me</i> became America’s favorite lullaby. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">And missionary began to spread the song abroad. It was often the first Christian song taught in Africa, Asia and South America. It has been claimed that Jesus Love Me has been responsible for more conversion that any song, Bible verse or hymn.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Out of one woman’s desire to help a nation deal with and suffering in a war to come Warren subtle way of sharing her faith became the greatest missionary tool of all time.</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3602837551504824071.post-51128098287450135482010-09-28T08:51:00.000-05:002010-09-28T08:51:09.333-05:00The Impact of Divorce<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This week I was asked to provide some information to a judge on the impact of the so-called “no-fault” divorce laws that have been enacted in many states.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> This judge is very concern about what he is seeing take place in the legal system when couples can obtain t</span>hese unilateral divorces.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It did not take long to discover that there are many victims, including children.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Just this week a friend and co-worker shared the pain be experience by her adolescent granddaughter experiencing the horror of divorce.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Yes, I did say horror. </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Each year, more than one million American children are victims of their parents’ divorce. Additionally, half of all children born in wedlock this year will see their parents’ divorce before reaching their eighteenth birthday.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> Social science research is showing that the effects of divorce continue into adulthood and affect future generations of children as well.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Reversing the effects of divorce will entail nothing less than a cultural shift in attitude, if not a cultural revolution, because society still embraces divorce in its laws and popular culture, sending out myriad messages that "it's okay." </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
It is not. Mounting evidence in the annals of scientific journals details the plight of the children of divorce. It clearly indicates that divorce has lasting effects which spill over into every aspect of life. For example: </span></span></div><ul><li><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Children of divorced parents are increasingly the victims of abuse and neglect. They exhibit more health, behavioral, and emotional problems, are involved more frequently in crime and drug abuse, and have higher suicide rates. </span></span></div></li>
<li><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Children of parents who have divorced more frequently demonstrate a diminished learning capacity, performing more poorly than their peers from intact two-parent families in reading, spelling, and math. They have higher dropout rates and lower rates of college graduation. </span></span></div></li>
<li><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo3; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Divorce generally reduces the income of the child's primary household and seriously diminishes the potential of every household member to accumulate wealth. For families that were not poor before the divorce, the drop in income can be as much as 50 percent. </span></span></div></li>
<li><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo4; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Religious worship, which has been linked to health and happiness as well as longer marriages and better family life, is less prevalent in divorced families. </span></span></div></li>
</ul><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.25in;"><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The effects of divorce are immense. The research shows that it permanently weakens the relationship between a child and his parents and leads to destructive ways of handling conflict and a poorer self-image. Children of divorce demonstrate an earlier loss of virginity, more cohabitation, higher expectations of divorce, higher divorce rates later in life, and less desire to have children. These effects on future family life perpetuate the downward spiral of family breakdown.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.25in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.25in;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman';">So, don’t be deceived, when the thought comes to your mind or you hear someone say that our children will be better off if we divorce.</span><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3602837551504824071.post-42033733658036010132010-09-15T15:38:00.000-05:002010-09-15T15:38:23.815-05:00A Father's Influence<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">In the rough and violent 1930’s in Chicago the Mafia’s membership included a slick lawyer they called Artful Eddie because he was so good at keeping Al Capone out of jail.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Time after time, he outwitted the authorities.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But Eddie was also the father of a boy named Butch, and deep inside he knew his crime career would severely limit Butch’s opportunities in the further.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What else could the son do but follow in his father’s footsteps?</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Finally, the man made a fateful choice, he squealed on Capone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Why?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>the cops wanted to know.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I want to give my son a break,” Eddie answered, and this time he wasn’t being artful.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">Not many weeks later, the mob silenced him forever with two shotgun blasts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Butch, however, went on to apply to Annapolis, and because his father had cleared the family name, he was accepted.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In World War II he was the Navy’s number-one ace.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And the first naval aviator ever to win the Congressional Medal of Honor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A few years later, they christened a new Chicago airport after him, and today nearly every traveler in North American knows his name:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>O’Hare.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Instead of going down in history as despicable and vile, the family is remembered with pride.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">What are you willing to sacrifice for your children?</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3602837551504824071.post-40440231354444414842010-09-12T15:10:00.001-05:002010-09-12T15:10:00.528-05:00Child Sexual Abuse – The Silent EpidemicAs a twenty year veteran of the U.S. Army, law enforcement and foster care I assure you that <strong>at no time in the history of our world are the children you love more susceptible to child sexual abuse</strong>. Oh yes, we hear regularly of “stranger danger” when a child is abducted and often killed by a pedophile. However, the greatest risk our children face is not strangers. In the greatest majority of the case the sex offender is well know and often liked by the child and the child’s family. Child sexual abuse is the “silent epidemic.” <br />
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<strong>Consider these facts.</strong><br />
<br />
• 90% of child sexual abuse victims know the perpetrator in some way; 68% are abused by family members.<br />
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• Child abuse occurs at every socioeconomic level, across ethnic and cultural lines, within all religions and at all levels of education.<br />
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• 59% gain sexual access to their victims through, seduction or enticement.<br />
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• The typical child sex offender molests an average of 117 children, most of who do not report the offense.<br />
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• About 60% of the male survivors sampled report at least one of their perpetrators to be female.<br />
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<br />
<strong>Cyber Predators.</strong><br />
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No only could the offender be someone you know. The predator could be in "cyberspace." A growing problem is cyber child predators. These individuals often pose as children or teens to begin online dialogues with victims. They are shrewd, intelligent and persistent. With older youth they may use extortion or threats.<br />
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<u>Don’t fall into a false sense of security. Your children may be at risk right now. Even with decades of knowledge related to child predators two of my own daughters were preyed upon.</u><br />
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Fortunately because of sound relationship with our children my wife and I were told that someone had gain access to both their college and personal email accounts. The local police and FBI were contacted and an investigation launched. Even though there was many dozens of victims my daughters were the first to report the crime. The majority of the parents were not even aware that their teens had been victims until contacted by the FBI and other law enforcement authorities after the seizure of the perpetrators computer.<br />
<br />
See this online FBI Press Release for details.<br />
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<a href="http://birmingham.fbi.gov/dojpressrel/pressrel08/bh080508.htm">http://birmingham.fbi.gov/dojpressrel/pressrel08/bh080508.htm</a><br />
<br />
<br />
Families, be vigilant in protecting your children. If I can help let me know.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3602837551504824071.post-2207673296607587082010-09-09T17:06:00.001-05:002010-09-10T14:00:36.529-05:00Grandparents RuleGrandparents Day is this Sunday and I am convinced that the prayers of my maternal grandmother are the reason I am a Christian today. Although she died when I was over a decade old the legacy she left was one of a loving service to God, family and others. Ironically, she collapsed and died one Sunday morning while getting ready to go to church and lead a Bible study. <br />
<br />
Just a few months ago I had the opportunity to speak at the funeral of another wonderful grandmother. She was the grandmother of my children. She too was a servant. She too was a Bible teacher. She too was a woman of influence even though she never was a person of affluence. She died in the home she was born in the arms of another great grandmother, my wife. <br />
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Last week I had the opportunity to "babysit" my granddaughter while her parent when on a "date." I must admit I would have rather read a book of my own instead of her select. I also would have watch something other than "Mickey" on T.V. However, the highlight of our few hours alone was when she cuddled up under my arm. A sign of affection? A sign of trust? Whatever the reason I loved it.<br />
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While my wife and I have only been grandparents for just over two years it has been a joy. This joy is not uncommon. According to grandparents.com 72% think being a grandparent is the single most important and satisfying thing in their life. <br />
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<strong>Here’s more evidence that grandparents love their role</strong><br />
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• 63% say they can do a better job caring for grandchildren than they did with their own <br />
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• 68% think being a grandparent brings them closer to their adult children <br />
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• 90% enjoy talking about their grandkids to just about everyone <br />
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<strong>Grandparents take care of the grandchildren.</strong><br />
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• 72% take care of their grandchildren on a regular basis <br />
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• 13% are primary caregivers <br />
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• 92% have changed their grandchild's diaper <br />
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• 64% accompany their adult children or grandchildren to the doctor <br />
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<strong>Grandparents are generous with their time and money.</strong><br />
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• They make 45% of the nation’s cash contributions to nonprofit organizations.<br />
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• They account for 42% of all consumer spending on gifts. <br />
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• 15% have volunteered at a shelter <br />
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Oh, and don’t forget this <strong>Sunday, September 12, 2010 is Grandparents Day</strong>. About 66% of grandparents have never celebrated this day. Make it a special day for a grandparent you know and love.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3602837551504824071.post-41178210720091151842010-09-09T11:59:00.000-05:002010-09-09T11:59:19.050-05:00Habits of Highly Effective FamiliesOne of this generations most well known authorities on the topics of management and effectiveness is Dr. Stephen Covey. His landmark book, <em>7 Habits of Highly Effective People</em> has been used by millions seeking to be effective. So what was so unique about this book that attracted so much interest? I contend that there is nothing new about this writing. It is merely the repackaging of ancient truths. This was reinforcement in my mind today as I read an assignment presented to me by a doctoral student in a course entitled, "Leadership and Ethics." The student is a minister and holds both an MBA and MDiv. Here is what she had to say to a fellow student posted in a discussion forum.<br />
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"The real world is not easy rather it is difficult. Leadership (integrity) is even more challenging and has additional responsibilities, pitfalls, setups, and people tugging for more attention and pushing you to the very limits. For me, the Bible is a road map for every aspect in life in which I prepare myself for daily battle and activity. Dr. Stephen Covey works it well in Seven Habits of Highly Effective People (1989) and I work it daily this way: <br />
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<br />
Habit 1 – Be Proactive: Put on the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil - Ephesians 6:11 NASB (1995).<br />
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Habit 2 – Begin with the End in Mind: For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life.- John 3:16 NASB (1995). <br />
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Habit 3 – Put First Things First: But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you - Matthew 6:33 NASB (1995).<br />
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Habit 4 – Think Win/Win: But thanks be to God, who always leads us in triumph in Christ, and manifests through us the sweet aroma of the knowledge of Him in every place – NASB (1995).<br />
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Habit 5 – Seek First to Understand then to be Understood: Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves – NASB (1995).<br />
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Habit 6 – Synergize: And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose – NASB (1995).<br />
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Habit 7 – Sharpen the Saw: Iron sharpens iron, So one man sharpens another – NASB (1995)."<br />
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You notice she stated, "For me, the Bible is a road map for every aspect in life in which I prepare myself for daily battle and activity."<br />
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Yes, this mean the Bible serves as the most authoritative source for marriages and families. Think about it.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3602837551504824071.post-52633793843909465072010-08-27T11:58:00.000-05:002010-08-27T11:58:33.810-05:00Wise Tidbits Concerning FamiliesThe ultimate book on wisdom is Proverbs. One brief verse that echos in my mind is, "The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but a wise man listens to advice." Proverb 12:15 (ESV) Here's a few tidbits to ponder.<br />
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• "The family should be a closely knit group. The home should be a self-contained shelter of security; a kind of school where life’s basic lessons are taught; and a kind of church where God is honored; a place where wholesome recreation and simple pleasures are enjoyed." --Billy Graham, “My Answer,” syndicated newspaper column<br />
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• "Unless the Lord builds the house, its builders labor in vain." --Found in The Bible, Psalm 127:1, NIV<br />
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• "It’s important to let our kids know we are aware of our inadequacies. Tell them. You have nothing to lose in honestly admitting to them that you didn’t do everything correctly as a parent. The admission may be the key to opening communication and beginning the process of healing your relationships with your kids." --Stephen Arterburn and Jim Burns, When Love is not Enough"<br />
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• “Discipline is demanded of the athlete to win a game. Discipline is required for the captain running his ship. Discipline is needed for the pianist to practice for the concert. . . .If parents believe standards are necessary, then discipline certainly is needed to attain them." --Gladys Brooks, as quoted in The Gift of Family by Naomi Rhode<br />
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• "Let your eyes light up when your children are around. Laugh more. Tell them how empty and quiet it is when they’re not there. Enjoy the things they bring to your life. Attend their activities, not as if they were compulsory for parents, but throw yourself into their lives." --Valerie Bell, Getting Out of your Kids’ Faces and into Their HeartsUnknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3602837551504824071.post-39856665264501082512010-08-26T15:58:00.000-05:002010-08-26T15:58:18.770-05:00Father Knows BestFor He knows our frame; He remembers that we are dust. Psalm 103:14<br />
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From October 3, 1954 'til September 17, 1960, father knew best. On 203 television episodes of Father Knows Best, Jim Anderson was the go-to guy for his family. Whether an episode's crisis revolved around Jim's wife, Margaret, or the three children—"Princess," "Bud," and "Kitten"—Jim was the man with a plan, week after week. Viewers knew that, within the space of a half hour, the most faithful and consistent father in America would always come through.<br />
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Christians also have a Father who knows best. And He knows best because He knows us so well. It should be an amazing source of comfort to every believer that they are known and loved intimately by the God who created them. "Episode after episode" in our lives, God is there to provide solutions and support in the way that He knows is best. The solutions may not come in a half hour like they did in the original TV show, but they will come—even if the solution is "No" or "Wait." God's answers are not given primarily for our comfort but for our conformity to Christ (Romans 8:29). <br />
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If you have a question or a crisis, take it to the Father who knows you best. You can trust His response, whatever it is.<br />
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What is a Christian? . . . The richest answer I know is that a Christian is one who has God as his Father. <br />
J. I. PackerUnknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3602837551504824071.post-25798280960478075282010-08-26T15:55:00.000-05:002010-08-26T15:55:27.693-05:00Contrasting FamiliesThe father of Jonathan Edwards was a minister and his mother was the daughter of a clergyman. Among their descendants were fourteen presidents of colleges, more than one hundred college professors, more than one hundred lawyers, thirty judges, sixty physicians more than a hundred clergymen, missionaries and theology professors, and about sixty authors. There is scarcely any great American industry that has not had one of his family among its chief promoters. Such is the product of one American Christian family, reared under the most favorable conditions.<br />
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The contrast is presented in the Jukes family, which could not be made to study and would not work, and is said to have cost the state of New York a million dollars. Their entire record is one of pauperism and crime, insanity and imbecility. Among their twelve hundred know descendants, three hundred ten were professional paupers, four hundred forty were physically wrecked by their own wickedness, sixty were habitual thieves, one hundred thirty were convicted criminals, fifty-five were victims of impurity, only twenty learned a trade (and ten of these learned it in a state prison) and this notorious family produced seven murderers. (Sanders, p.90)<br />
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What is the foundation of your family?<br />
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Sanders, J.O. (1958). A spiritual clinic. Chicago, IL: Moody Press.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3602837551504824071.post-70617746053577584422010-08-26T15:52:00.000-05:002010-08-26T15:52:51.539-05:00The Decline of the FamilyIn 1947 sociologist and historian Carle Zimmerman compared the deterioration and ultimate disintegration of various cultures with the parallel in the decline of family unit in American. His study identified specific patterns of behavior that typified the final stages of the disintegration of each culture. Just before each culture fell into total disarray, certain conditions became prominent Dr. Zimmerman traced those elements that led to the demise of the family unit There are eleven in all and among the eleven were:<br />
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<ul><li>Increase and rapid, easy, “causeless” divorce (Guilty and innocent party theory became a pure fictions.)</li>
<li>Deceased number of children, population decay, and increased public disrespect for parents and parenthood.</li>
<li>Elimination of the real meaning of the marriage ceremony.</li>
<li>Popularity of pessimistic doctrines about the early heros.</li>
<li>Breaking down of most inhibitions against adultery.</li>
<li>Revolts of youth against parents so that parenthood became more and more difficult for those who did try to raise children.</li>
<li>Rapid rise and spread of juvenile delinquency.</li>
<li>Common acceptance of all forms of sex perversions.</li>
</ul>So how is the American family doing?<br />
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<br />
<em>Carle C Zimmerman, Family and Civilization (New York, Harper & Brothers, 1947 pp. 776-777</em>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3602837551504824071.post-21411578578121401712010-08-26T15:40:00.000-05:002010-08-26T15:40:14.318-05:00A Father’s InfluenceIn the rough and violent 1930’s in Chicago. The Mafia’s membership included a slick lawyer they called Artful Eddie because he was so good at keeping Al Capone out of jail. Time after time, he outwitted the authorities. But Eddie was also the father of a boy named Butch, and deep inside he knew his crime career would severely limit Butch’s opportunities in the further. What else could the son do but follow in his father’s footsteps?<br />
<br />
Finally, t he man made a fateful choice, He squealed on Capone. Why? the cops wanted to know. “I want to give my son a break,” Eddie answered, and this time he wasn’t being artful.<br />
<br />
Not many weeks later, the mob silenced him forever with two shotgun blasts. Butch, however, went on to apply to Annapolis, and because his father had cleared the family name, he was accepted. In World War II he was the Navy’s number-one ace. The first naval aviator ever to win the Congressional Medal of Honor. A few years later, they christened a new Chicago airport after him, and today nearly every traveler in North American knows his name: O’Hare. Instead of going down in history as despicable and vile, the family is remembered with pride. <br />
<br />
What are you willing to sacrifice for your children?Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0