Who Lives Here?

"Should anyone knock at my heart and say, ‘Who lives here?’ I should reply, ‘Not Martin Luther, but the Lord Jesus Christ.’” 
- Martin Luther

Dancing in the Minefields

Supporters of Chick-fil-A: Haters?

I am sick and tired of people saying that if you support Chick-fil-A {you were among those participating the Mike Huckabee induced Chick-fil-A Appreciation Day} that you are somehow advocating “hate.” That’s not the case. The reason Americans showed up in mass numbers to buy chicken sandwiches and nuggets is because –we stand for free speech and freedom of religion {promised to us in the First Amendment.} How hard is that to digest? 

Dan Cathy, President  & CEO of Chick-fil-A, is being persecuted – and yes, I said persecuted by liberal media and LGBT groups for simply stating his viewpoint on traditional and Biblical marriage. It’s not a secret – Chick-fil-A is a Christian company. They are closed on Sundays – for heaven’s sake! Why should one statement incite such fury from critics?

These critics are the ones that want government mandated healthcare. These critics are the ones that want a nanny-state. These critics are the ones that don’t want to lift a finger and still collect an unemployment check. These critics are the ones that want to abort precious lives, while forcing Catholic and other religious groups to pay for contraceptives {even though, it opposes their core values.}  These critics are the ones that want to give amnesty to all – without making people who have broken the law and mooched off the economy legally become United States citizens. These critics are the ones that are destroying the American Dream as we know it. There is something very wrong with this picture. 

Chicago Mayor, Rahm Emmanuel, once Chief of Staff for America’s Commander-in-Chief {can you say scary!?} was among the scoffers that stated, 

“Chick-fil-A’s values are not Chicago’s values”

He also went so far as to say he does not regret his comments made about the fast food chain restaurant. Classy Mayor – very classy! 

Boston Mayor Thomas Menino fired off a letter to the Chick-fil-A president. He writes, 

"In recent days you said Chick-fil-A opposes same-sex marriage and said the generation that supports it has 'an arrogant attitude. Now—incredibly—your company says you are backing out of the same-sex marriage debate. I urge you to back out of your plans to locate in Boston."

I live in a land of bi-partisan nature {Washington, DC} – although these days it feels like more of a dictatorship ruled by our “Tyrant King.” It’s funny because I thought that’s the reason our ancestors sailed across an ocean – freedom of religion and to escape the hands of despotism? Yet, we now have elected officials trying to reverse this freedom our fathers fought so hard and died for?  

It all boils down to the fact that we have lost sight of who we are. Even some Christians have misplaced this truth. We feed into political correctness in order to “fit in.” However, Jesus told us – 

“If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first. If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you.” - John 15:18-19

More troubling to me is seeing notable Christians posting articles and statements on their social media accounts not advocating that marriage should be between a man and woman. Jesus called us “the light of the world.” Conforming to the pattern of this world should not be an option. We should not see ‘both sides of the issue’ regarding something that is a Biblical truth. God’s word is black and white. Just like the Ten Commandments – there is a right and wrong. 

One prominent Christian author notes, 

“Again, what concerns me the most in all of this is the drawing of unmovable lines between the Christian community and the LGBT community when these lines need not exist. As Christians, we should be working tirelessly to find common ground instead of drawing battle lines.”

This is not accurate. We are to draw a line in the sand – for what is holy and what is unholy. No, we should never carry out hate crimes or treat someone who holds different beliefs as a “second class citizen.” But, we should not be forced in to accepting something that is a sin – in the eyes of Christianity. 

It’s encouraging that newly elected Texas Senator Ted Cruz served Chick-fil-A at his victory party last night. This is an indication that Americans are not completely glazed over by the ideals of the “kooks” {as Monica Crowley would call them.} 

Let’s not allow America to forsake her godly heritage. It’s time to claim that phrase that hangs over the speaker’s diocese on the Floor of the United States Representatives, “In God We Trust.”And, let's not forget that our First Amendment rights are precious. Once these cease to exist, America as we know it, will.

ShePAC

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Last night listened to one of my favorite role models – Former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice. Talk about incredible! She is a physically little woman with giant intellect. Her speech was graceful and delivery was flawless. With her words she stirred the room of flashing cameraS and star-struck ladies to get out, vote and support Mitt Romney in 2012. Excellent VP material? I think so!

One thing she said resonated throughout my body [will be paraphrasing]. She looked at everyone with tears in her eyes and noted – this is a little girl who grew up in segregated Alabama; yet, her father told her that she could be the President of the United States someday. We live in a beautiful country – where someone who was not allowed to get food from a hamburger stand could grow up to be Secretary of State. Chills.

Father's Day 2012

My Father - I could write volumes of books to explain why my father means the world to me. A masculine and towering character, his presence is felt by all. Upon initial glance, he looks stern and serious. Face concentrated and lined in wisdom, his green eyes are piercing and intimidating. His voice is assured and confident. However, this is not the man I know. This is the man the world knows. I am blessed and humbled to know my father’s heart. 

When thinking about my father, my soul leaps within me. My body bubbles over with love. If I were to describe my dad in one word – it would be “sacrifice.” Of course, parents are always supposed to lay aside a lot of their wants and desires for their kids – that is what makes for a good parent. But, I think my dad is an exception. He has always been me and my sister’s biggest advocate and fan. 

Blessed with two little girls, my dad stepped up to the plate serving as our protector, coach and encourager. He gave up his pastimes to sit up in high school bleachers and chant with his two cheerleaders, “Go Big Green and Gold.” He spent his Saturdays hitting grounders to his freckle-faced middle school daughter and spent countless nights wiping the tears from her emotional face. 

My father is a rock. It’s hard for me to think of him as a little boy or new husband –I guess he once was –but, I’ve always known him as a steady source of wisdom and strength. I know him as a solid leader who knelt by our bedside and powerfully prayed promises over us. I know him as a man who would sing with us, “Create in me a clean heart, Oh God” from his gut after prayers. I know my father as a voice who stated at every turn, “You are blessed and favored by the Lord.” 

You see – my father is an exception. A simple, “thank you for being my dad” cannot suffice on this Father’s Day or any for that matter. He had a choice – to be a lackluster dad or to show his little girls a father’s undying love. I’m glad he chose the latter.

Daddy, you’ve not only encouraged me and spurred me on to “suck out all the marrow of life,” you’ve gently guided me. You have led by example. You are our family’s patriot. You ride at dawn with a torch of fire in hand – which is God’s word. Your battle cry is not one of self-serving accolades. You call out in truth. I respect you deeply. You are the husband and father God has called you to be and that means the world to me.  

 I love you Daddy.

Crave Blessings

Today it’s raining in DC. I typically loathe the rain. A girl with naturally curly hair, humidity and moisture either make my hair very frizzy or resemble a red version of Shirley Temple. Although, I don’t like the physical aspects of the rain, the symbolism of rain is quite beautiful to me – it washes all the old away. 

So many times in life, I’ve wanted to just get one of those squeegees at the gas stations and wipe away the dust that clouts my vision and my mind. You see, it’s so easy to get bombarded by the everyday mundane things and miss out on the blessings. 

How sad is it that people miss out on beautiful blessings because they are fixated on the ordinary? I think of the fossil digs in grade school we all went on. On the outside, the dig would look like a typical sandbox. But, as soon as you put your shovel to work – you’d uncover sometimes unique relics.

I can tell you – that I want to take time and seek out the fossils. However, nothing special is acquired without hard work.  This has to be intentional. It’s deliberate to gather the equipment to uncover fossils and search for these unearthed treasures. 

In order to find blessings from God, we must make our journey to his throne room intentional. It’s vital to just read an entry in a devotional, listen to a Christian podcast or simply open your Bible and read a verse. Blessings cannot flow to a heart only seeking the mundane. Hunt for the extraordinary! Go on a heavenly fossil dig!

God is extraordinary – so why would he give you anything other than what is exceptional? You are his child – the apple of his eye. He longs for you to yearn for him in your everyday life. Crave the blessings of the spirit!. The Lord has promised – you will never hunger or thirst.

New Day

• Go confidently in the direction of your dreams. Live the life you have imagined. - Henry David Thoreau

 

• This is the day the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it. - Psalm 118:24 

Like an Indian dancing before a fire

Every time I sit down and write, I want to compose a masterpiece. I want to stir the hearts of others and provide them some type of muse that will inspire their day. It’s an absolute delight to me knowing that my words can impact another’s heart and bring them closer to the Lord. 

However, I realized that I never just sat down and wrote straight to my emotions what I am feeling at the moment. Though I know there is no audience for this blog, I feel it’s my turn to sit down and write my feelings. I am typically a happy person. My personality is the half glass full type. I gather joy in the morning sunrises and feel great appreciation for the beautiful hues of the sky when the sun sets. Life is a joyous experience to me. 

Though met with hardships, life is a gift – given by the supreme maker of all.For the majority of my life, my constant companion has been Christ. He is the father to the fatherless and the strength to the weak. He has been the rock beneath my feet and my lantern when the days grow dim and dreary. 

When you are young, it’s easy to grasp the concept of an invisible friend. It’s even easier to carry on a conversation with someone you can’t see. However, when you get older – this relationship becomes more and more difficult. We ask questions like, where is God and why can’t I see him? I know he’s promised me blessings, but why do I feel like the wicked are being rewarded and I’m getting the shaft? 

Questions like these have baffled me. I’ve pondered these thoughts – and felt sorry for myself. I’ve tried to brush them under the rug and act like they don’t exist. But, everyone knows that retreating from a situation or completely ignoring it does not make the problem go away. I’ve come to the conclusion that all I can cling to is the truth. The Lord has promised us countless things in the Bible. He has stated that he will never leave us or forsake us. He has called us the apple of his eye. He has stated that though mourning may last for a night – joy comes in the morning. 

I have had my fair share of hardships and failures. I have sulked in pity and self-absorbent ways – but this has not helped. All this does is add gasoline to the already blazing fire in my stomach. In the end all the matters is Christ. He will always remain my friend through thick and thin. 

I recently read a speech which talked about liberal ideology verses that of the conservative philosophy.  The speech stressed the ultimate difference between liberals and conservatives was that liberals associate themselves with groups, whereas, conservatives place emphasis in the individual. 

One of the most important things I’ve learned in my life is that my relationship with God is my own. It’s not my mothers or my fathers. It is my own intimate personal relationship. God talks to me and reveals his truth to me through his promises written in red. What he says to me is my charge. 

A warrior in God’s battle for truth, I will march always to the sound of his voice. It annoys me when I hear preacher’s make light of hearing God’s voice. You know, he may not speak like a siren in your ear – but sometimes it’s a little louder than you think. He moves in hearts, minds and souls. The Bible states that he comes to you in a small, quiet voice. Part of me thinks that true only if you’ve been quenching the spirit. I want God to speak to me always in a resounding gong like manner. I want to know his voice and walk in it. Like an Indian dancing before a fire, I want to dance before my God and reflect his glory through my life!

Disappointed

It’s not my aim to write political posts on here, but the sheer arrogance of our President has been gnawing at my conscience today. Just last week, he made a big announcement – stating that he does, in fact, support same-sex marriage. I wouldn’t say this was a total shock to anyone in the country. Since the beginning, Obama has taken a defiant stance on radical liberal ideology. I think most Americans were just too dumb to see it for what it was – a front, a façade, a campaign speech.

His ideals were masked with words like hope, change and believe. These magical words usually make an appearance around Christmastime – in the form of a jolly man with a red suit. And, kids – don’t read this bit - he's fictional. However, I probably should scold myself for saying “Christmas” doesn’t the current administration prefer us to use the PC term “holiday”?  Can we be so ignorant to let this amateur man literally flip this country upside down? Although, I did not contribute to this mess - I'm ashamed.

Our Commander-in-Chief was on “The View” this morning yucking it up with Whoppi Goldberg and Joy Behar. Gag me. They were quizzing him on pop culture topics like Kim Kardshian and sex books. It’s fair to say, his campaign arranged this media spot this morning because of the current polls which show that Mitt Romney is winning the woman vote in this election. 

When I was little I envisioned the United States President standing in all honor and esteem. He was knowledgeable and serious. He answered the press, but did not answer to them. He valued the roots of this country and the founders that gave us our freedom. Their blood and sacrifice was respected. 

Is it just me – or has this country’s highest office been desecrated?  It honestly makes me sick to my stomach. Like safety seals, the Obama Administration is rapidly ripping off our covering. We are ever so slowly being exposed to elements that will not just scratch us – they will destroy us. 

I pray Americans will wake from their slumber this November and vote – not just a talking head into our highest office. But, that they will elect a leader – one they trust with their well being and the future of their families.

Rep. Michele Bachmann

Me and Michele Bachmann

Human Life

There are so many pressing issues to discuss like the fate of this nation, our President politicizing the assassination of Osama bin Laden, Rep. Michele Bachmann’s recent endorsement of Mitt Romney and the Wall Street Journal blog that notes – the jobs picture isn’t pretty.  I could rattle off a book giving you my opinions on this subject matter. Can write you talking points – we are on a cliff headed for ruin, we must stop spending money we don’t have, the state of the economy reflects the type of leadership we have set in place…etc.  And I believe these points wholeheartedly. However, with all the hustle and bustle, media hype and bleak economic woes, it’s sometimes difficult to concentrate on one of the most beautiful topics – human life. 

I scan the news most every day. OK – not most every day – every day. When you work in a job, centered on communication, it’s vital to know your current events. While I was going through my daily routine this morning, stumbled upon an editorial, written by a brilliant conservative pundit and ABC News commentator, George Will. Though, I did not know what the story was about – the title pulled me in, “Jon Will’s Gift.” Being a typical sentimental girl and a sucker for stories that wrench your heart, I had to read it. Found myself crying and pondering, why? 

 

George Will’s son, Jon, was born with down-syndrome. The oldest of his children, his 40^th birthday is tomorrow. Mr. Will notes that the things that have enhanced his son’s life are the DC subway system and the Nationals baseball team. He writes, 

"He navigates the subway expertly, riding it to the Nationals ballpark, where he enters the clubhouse a few hours before game time and does a chore or two. The players, who have climbed to the pinnacle of a steep athletic pyramid, know that although hard work got them there, they have extraordinary aptitudes because they are winners of life’s lottery. Major leaguers, all of whom understand what it is to be gifted, have been uniformly and extraordinarily welcoming to Jon, who is not.”

 I’m sure many pro-choice advocates would not be too pleased with this piece. They would think, “Why should a little boy – sentenced to a life of constant supervision live? He can’t reach his full potential.” I bet his parents would argue with that statement. It’s a selfish question. If you believe that God is the one who creates, in fact, ordains life – wouldn’t he have a purpose behind the life of every individual? I can imagine Jon is thankful for his life. I’m sure Jon has blessed countless individuals with his innocent demeanor and perpetual smile. Jon’s life counts – his life is precious. Every life is valued. It’s a gift from the maker of all. I always meditate on Psalm 139:13.

 “For you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made.”

He is fearfully and wonderfully made. My mom would always tell me growing up – God didn’t create junk. All the works of God’s hands are marvelous.

George Will with children. Jon (left). 

Maybe the question is not, “why?” Maybe just maybe we should relish in the simplicity of life – the living breathing moments. Maybe we should not question the divine, but learn to thank God for the gifts he has given us.  Like Jeremiah, the prophet of old, we should realize,

“Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart.”

 To me, Jon’s outlook is the purest of them all. God has set him apart for a reason. And, he is the one who can truly see through the unobstructed lenses of life.

Summer Simple Wreath

Made this for my little city apartment. The Easter Egg Wreath had been on my door a little too long. This wreath will last me until at least October! Happy Summer!

Love

“Live simply, love generously, care deeply, speak kindly, leave the rest to God.”― Ronald Reagan

This Ticks Me Off

 You are going to get to hear me rant just a little in this post. But, ranting for good reason is validated, right? I stumbled upon this political cartoon yesterday in one of my favorite conservative websites, Human Events. This picture is telling, to say the least, of what the media is calling “The War on Women.” What’s your initial impression of this drawing? To me, I see unborn, innocent children becoming casualties of this “so-called” battle on women. I think we are missing the bigger picture on this “war” the liberals and liberal media is waging, and the price of misinterpreting it is costly. 

 Don’t get me wrong – I am all for women’s rights. As a college graduate and independent woman living on her own in the nation’s capitol, I think it’s important for women to achieve their dreams. I am by no means advocating that women should be in the kitchen, outfitted in floral apron, making fried chicken and fixing sweet tea while barefoot and pregnant. Heck, I have a pressing job – one that requires late nights, early mornings and an additional cup of Joe to keep me going. However, I will never advocate murder under the guise of “The War on Women.” That’s deceptive. And, simply stated, that is exactly what liberals are doing.

I understand it – the right to choose. It’s my body, my choice. Gotcha. Rosie the Riveter is iconic. Believe me, I get it. Every human being should have the same opportunity, the same pathway paved to succeed and flourish to the fullest.  But, I cannot help from getting a huge lump in my throat thinking about the number of precious lives lost by the reckless and selfish philosophy pushed by liberals. Life begins at conception. It should be a black and white truth.

What happened to the biblical rooted phrase, “Every decision has a consequence?” Genesis states, “A man reaps what he sows.” Our Founders lived this way. They set America in motion on these principles. But, that’s right; our Founders were, after all, just white racist males. (This is not extreme. It’s what feminists and liberals claim). I never read Maureen Dowd – because when I do, I just get angry. This is what Ms. Dowd claimed in her recent New York Times editorial, Don’t Tred on Us,

“The attempt by Republican men to wrestle American women back into chastity belts has not only breathed life into President Obama, it has roused and riled Hillary. And that could turn out to be the most dangerous thing the wildly self-destructive G.O.P. leaders have done.”

 Do you think that’s absurd? I do. 

I was never under the impression that Republican men were trying to wrestle women back into chastity belts? Which, with that said, would be a tough challenge as it is – c’mon look around at the culture now! I just thought the GOP was all up in arms over the government (aka – the American taxpayer) paying for someone’s contraception and/or abortion pills AND the Obama Administration mandating this – regardless of religious conscience? I mean, correct me if I am wrong… 

There is a bigger picture here, and we would be completely misinformed to think this was JUST about women's rights. Take a look at this cartoon again. Can you really deny the reality etched in this illustration?

Andrew Breitbart, 1969-2012

It’s hard to imagine the concept – life goes on, especially after a major conservative voice passes away. I was stunned to hear the devastating and shocking news of Andrew Breitbart’s death this morning. He was a bright star – a powerful and fearless voice that inspired millions of Americans. Initially, after hearing the news and coming to the heartbreaking realization that he was gone, it hit me, he was just here in Washington. He was riling up the Occupy Wall Street minions outside the DC hotel doors at CPAC. He was just here – delivering a charge to truth hungry Americans to fight the good fight – to stand up for their convictions. He was just here – laughing at the “embassy” near the Capitol and strategizing his next move to expose liberals. Conservatives have lost a true treasure today. 

He was a liberty fighter. Some would use the term “American hero” to describe him; but, I saw him as a modern day Paul Revere – riding forth with a lantern in hand with a message of urgency. “Conservatives used to take it, and we're not taking it anymore.” He had a way with words. Some speak in flowery language, Andrew spoke to the conscience. He was discerning. He saw things in black and white. He could decipher the truth from lies. I wish more Americans were like him. 

He was a culture warrior. Outspoken and honest, he was fearless when it came to voicing his opinion. Opposition and vitriolic comments fueled his fervor for the conservative cause – for hate cannot stand the presence of legitimacy. His life was not his main concern – his sole desire was to unearth the truth buried in mounds of lies. He uncovered a lot and inspired others to do the same. 

We always talk about this country’s Forefathers – the men that made this nation so great – Andrew had the mindset of a patriot.  I’m almost surprised he never mounted a horse and galloped with a sword held high above his head—Braveheart style – into a crowd of liberal protesters. He was that passionate about the cause and the right of Americans to live out their freedom (promised to us in the United States Constitution).

His voice was important in Washington, DC. Conservative reporters, pundits, bloggers and even United States Representatives rested in the assurance that Andrew Breitbart had their back at all costs. He was a good person to have fighting for you. He was a flame thrower – standing on the front lines. However, it’s apparent and always heartbreaking to understand that battles always have causalities. The clash of the sword claims beautiful lives. That is just a part of war. 

But, life must go on. After today, we will all go back to our normal routines. After the hype, it’s his loved ones that will feel the sting of death. I pray for his wife and four small children – that they will find comfort in this troubling time. It is my hope that his children will walk tall and strong in the future - and not only hear about their father’s legacy, but see his legacy played out in the lives of others.

Head Scarves

My sister and I went on a little outing over President's Day! We walked the National Mall and sported our new head scarves [compliments of Eastern Market.] It was a cool day - but, we were pretty toasty with our ears under cover!

What Girl Does Not LOVE Flowers!?

Beautiful Valentine Flowers

Trader Joe's Flowers

The Vow

Seeing this movie tonight in Washington, DC.

Passion

General Eisenhower

AMEN. General Eisenhower’s Message Sent Just Prior to the Invasion on D-Day. Still rings true today –

“Your task will not be an easy one. Your enemy is well trained, well equipped and battle hardened, he will fight savagely… The tide has turned! The free men of the world are marching together to victory! I have full confidence in your courage, devotion to duty and skill in battle. We will accept nothing less than full victory! And let us all beseech the blessings of Almighty God upon this great and noble undertaking.”

 

 

Psalm 8

Psalm 8

O LORD, our Lord, how excellent is thy name in all the earth! Who hast set thy glory above the heavens. Out of the mouth of babes and sucklings hast thou ordained strength because of thine enemies, that thou mightest still the enemy and the avenger. When I consider thy heavens, the work of thy fingers, the moon and the stars, which thou hast ordained; What is man, that thou art mindful of him? and the son of man, that thou visitest him? For thou hast made him a little lower than the angels, and hast crowned him with glory and honour. Thou madest him to have dominion over the works of thy hands; thou hast put all things under his feet: All sheep and oxen, yea, and the beasts of the field; The fowl of the air, and the fish of the sea, and whatsoever passeth through the paths of the seas. O LORD our Lord, how excellent is thy name in all the earth!

A Worshipping Intimate Army is Now Arising!

I will bring them to places where they will begin to see by the Spirit. They will write. They will perform with the same creativity they had in the world system. However, NOW, they will do their work for Me with great excellence. I will invade the mountains of societies in this season with a new intensity. - Chuck Pierce

Fort Worth Rodeo

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Texas is a state of mind. Texas is an obsession. Above all, Texas is a nation in every sense of the word - John Steinbeck