Love You More

It's the battle back and forth. It's a contest that never ends. It's a fierce competition that we both try to win. I love you more!

What does that mean? I love you more-the phrase itself has many meanings to me. Perhaps you can put all those meanings into three separate categories - physical, emotional, and spiritual.

I love you more physically means:

• Leaving more food for the other if there's not enough to go around. Sure you might be hungry but love will fill the void.
• Staying up at night to help your sick loved one. Sure you might be tired at work the next day but love will give you energy.
• Holding hands more
• Kissing more
• Hugging more
• Smiling more

I love you more emotionally means:

• Providing a listening ear
• Giving a shoulder to cry on
• Talking less, listening more
• Standing up for someone
• Telling someone they are beautiful
• Giving encouragement DAILY
• Asking for forgiveness 
• Apologizing
• Working through a conflict
• Making selfless choices
• Recognizing sacrifices
• Sacrificing 

I love you more spiritually means:

• Praying together
• Caring for each other's soul
• Making time for God in your relationship

But more than anything, I love you more means - you've never stopped giving more!

It's beautiful! You betcha!

"I go to nature to be soothed and healed, and to have my senses put in order."- John Burroughs, American Conservationist

As I drove to work this morning, I did something that I always do - I looked at the sky. This may seem like a simple and meaningless gesture. Yet, for me, there is so much more to it than just a simple glance. Psalm 19:1 tells me, "The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handywork." So many things in this life are glorious, so long as we take the time to see that glory. I look at the sky and know that glory abounds. There's a soothing and a healing to be found in skies of blue and clouds of white.

I've come to appreciate nature more and more the older I get. Yet, it's not so much the nature itself that contributes to my appreciation. It's the people who find that same feeling I do in the sky of blue and clouds of white.

If you have never had the chance to visit northern Minnesota, you should definitely go. Most any part of the Land of 10,000 lakes is easy on the eyes, but the best of views is in a canoe with a friend or two. It certainly helps if that canoe is laden with some fishing gear and people you hold near.Don't forget to look at the sky of blue and clouds of white.

Paddling is hard work, but it's not so bad if you happen to find yourself on Birch Lake in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area. I've been there and I'm a better person because of my trip. I caught a fish or two or three. I heard a story or two or three. I even got a little upset when my line tangled in the net. Luckily, the beauty of not only the land but a lady calmed me down. After all, I was under the sky of blue and clouds of white.

Yet, the most important thing that I took away from my journey on Birch Lake was this: We all live under the same sky. The sky stretches forever, much like a good friend and a great family are there forever. Sure, the people under the sky may talk differently, act differently, and think differently. Yet, we are all living under the same sky- a sky of blue and clouds of white.

It soothes my soul to know that I have people who care about me under the sky thousands of miles away. From Minnesota to Alabama, from North Carolina to Nepal there's people who live under the same sky that can look up and think about me - in the sky of blue and clouds of white.

It heals my soul to see the sight of two families becoming one -under the sky of blue and clouds of white. Life is full of divisive things, but you won't find a divide in the sky of blue and clouds of white.

No matter the distance, no matter the time, always look up to the sky and think of the people you love who live under the same sky of blue and clouds of white. Let new love for them take flight- into a sky of blue and clouds of white.

A sky of blue and clouds of white - it's beautiful! You betcha! That's right! A sky where love takes flight!

That, my friends, is just a few thoughts from a small town southern man.

Most of all...

Sometimes in life, we really need a best friend. Friends may come. Friends may go. Yet a best friend will remain forever. In life, we sometimes think we have found our best friend. As time goes on, actions and words may reveal otherwise. So, the question remains, how do you know when you have found your best friend? I think some lyrics from a classic Don Williams song can tell us.

"You're My Best Friend"
by Don Williams

You placed gold on my finger
You brought love like I've never known
You gave life to our children
And to me a reason to go on.

You're my bread when I'm hungry
You're my shelter from troubled winds
You're my anchor in life's ocean
But most of all you're my best friend.

When I need hope and inspiration
You're always strong when I'm tired and weak
I could search This whole world over
You'll still be everything that I need.

You're my bread when I'm hungry
You're my shelter from troubled winds
You're my anchor in life's ocean
But most of all you're my best friend.

You're my bread when I'm hungry
You're my shelter from troubled winds
You're my anchor in life's ocean
But most of all you're my best friend...

A reason to go on - that is a best friend. You see, a best friend brings out the best in a person. Sometimes the things they help a person reveal about themselves may be something completely unknown to that person. Self worth is important and there are times in life when you can't always find your own self worth. That's where your best friend comes in and helps you to see the best in yourself and that is reason enough to go on.

Hunger - what is hunger? In America, we are fortunate enough to not have to deal with very much physical hunger. Yet, we hunger in other ways too. We hunger emotionally and spiritually. A best friend doesn't let a friend go emotionally hungry. They provide them "bread" for their emotions. This could be a word of encouragement, a listening ear, or an understanding heart.

Troubled winds - do you have troubled winds in your life? We all do! Life sometimes feels like one giant hurricane or an f-5 tornado. Where do we go when the "troubled winds" of life arise? We go to our best friend! Our best friend protects us and provides shelter from winds of persecution, winds of change, winds of doubt and winds of fear.

And...these few words get me every time: "You're my anchor in life's ocean." Stability is important to me. I guess that's why I sometimes make a big deal out of the future in terms of finances and careers. Stability is also important to me in terms of love. You see, a stable love is a love that's not dead. No love life will ever be perfect. However, it can remain stable and steady in those "troubled winds" We love someone through the "winds"  and the "waves" if we truly love them.  A best friend provides an anchor to keep our "ship" stable in "life's ocean." A best friend keeps us grounded for the future. If it weren't for our best friends, we may end up drifting through "life's ocean" with no hope for a safe arrival to the harbor.

But most of all, if you have a friend that fits all of the things I described then you have a best friend. I've found my best friend! I placed gold on her finger. Well, white gold with a touch of blue, that is!

That, my friends, is just a few thoughts from a small town southern man!

It's my strength for holding on

Some of us, by circumstances of life, may find ourselves separated from the ones we love. As unfortunate as that may be, there is one thing that remains constant through it all. That one constant thing is love. Love is the only part of a person that you can take with you wherever you go. I think George Strait's song says it bes:

"Carrying Your Love With Me"

Baby all I got is this beat up leather bag.
And everything I own don't fill up half.
But don't you worry 'bout the way I pack.
All I care about is getting back real soon.
A goodbye kiss is all I need from you.

[Chorus:]
I'm carrying your love with me.
West Virginia down to Tennessee.
I'll be movin' with the good Lord's speed.
Carrying your love with me.
It's my strength for holdin' on,
Every minute that I have to be gone.
I'll have everything I ever need.
Carrying your love with me.

On a lonely highway, stuck out in the rain.
Darlin' all I have to do is speak your name.
The clouds roll back and the waters part.
The sun starts shining in my heart for you.
You're right there in everything I do, 'cause...

[Chorus]

This song shows that material possessions don't mean a lot. It shows that we can get by with only the necessities of life, as long as we have love. I know that I carry the love of many with me each day. I carry the love of my family, I carry the love of those who are no longer here on this earth with me and I carry the love of my best friend, the love of my life. She knows who she is! Sometimes life gets rough. Sometimes life seems to be like an ocean that separates us from loved ones for what seems like an eternity. Yet, just like this song, my strength for holding on during those times of troubled waters is the love of others that I carry with me each day. Everything gets just a little better when I realize the love that I carry with me. What about you? Do you carry love with you?

The clouds come - but they will roll back

The waters swell - but they will part

The sun does shine in my heart for you!

So, until me meet again, I'll carry your love with me because it is my strength for holding on every minute and every second that I have to be gone <3

Absence makes the heart grow fonder and ponder but never wonder

Absence makes the heart grow fonder. - How true is that statement? I would say that absence does make the heart grow fonder. Knowing what you did have and not being able to have it makes you want it even more. Absence makes you do something else too. Absence makes you ponder.

Ponder - to think or consider especially quietly, soberly, and deeply

You see, chances are, if you are experiencing the absence of someone you love, you probably spend many minutes, hours, and days pondering. What do you ponder? For me I:

• Ponder about what I can do next when I am with that person - I have always been a person who tries to be a forward thinker. The minute absence kicks in, I start trying to think of things that can be done when the I am together with that person again. I do this for several reasons. First, I believe that what you think about often become reality. What reality could be any better than re-uniting with a person you love? Secondly, I try to think forward because everything in life can be improved upon. I want things to get better and better.
• Ponder about what life would be life without certain people - I try to avoid sobering thoughts sometimes. Yet, it is so important to ask yourself: "What would my life be like without __________?" If you can't imagine your life without that person, then you should be willing to eliminate the absence.
• Ponder the meaning of love - Absence makes the heart grow fonder. How does the heart grow fonder? The answer is simple. Hearts grow fonder when they're filled with love. So, what is the true meaning of love. The most simple and concise statement that can be used to clearly explain what love means is this: Love is a journey in which both people commit themselves to the good of each other every step of the way.

So, ponder this, have you experienced the commitment of a person who always looks out for your good? If so, you have found love. When you find love, do what it takes to keep it safe!

Though we may experience the absence of someone in a physical way, we must always remember that love remains despite physical absence and it is there every step of the journey. You never really are alone. Absence makes the heart grow fonder and ponder but should never make you wonder. I don't have to wonder. I know the love I have and my heart grows fonder for her every day.

That, my friends, is just a few thoughts from a small town southern man.

Hands, minds, and hearts

Hands, minds, and hearts...what do these three have in common. Other than being parts of the body, these three things are all used to express love.

With your hands you might express love by:

• Making things for people
• Holding someone steady to keep them from falling
• Pulling someone  to safety
• Embracing in a handshake of brotherly love
• Mending something that is broken for someone

With your mind you might express love by:

• Thinking of words to say to someone sad or grieving
• Creating ideas that will serve to help someone accomplish something more efficiently
• Lending your expertise in a subject to someone who could benefit from it
• Thinking of words of encouragement to express to someone
• Thinking of how to find out what someone needs help with

With your heart you might express love by:

• Welcoming a lonely friend into your home
• Being friendly to a stranger or someone no one seems to be noticing
• Giving up something you have plenty of to someone who may be lacking
• Pouring your heart out in prayer for someone
• Loving unconditionally, through the good times and bad

Today, I stopped and thought about how I tend to express my love quite openly. Love comes in many different forms. For example, there's brotherly love between friends, there's parental love between children and parents, and there's romantic love between a couple. And while these different types of love are shown in different ways, they all don't just happen without effort and putting yourself out there. Love doesn't go "poof" and appear. It must be expressed. I have often wondered why people have so much trouble expressing love. I have come to the conclusion, that people have trouble with expressing love because they don't realize that love is not complex. You can show love in so many ways. With our hands, minds, and hearts we can express love in the simplest of gestures. Wouldn't the world be a better place if we all expressed more simple gestures of love? Be open with others and truly show them you care- that's love and chances are when you are openly expressing your love and care, an open expression of love and care will follow from the recipient.

I'm so very thankful that I and those around me are not afraid to express love. Love is the happiest of all expressions. I can honestly say, that I get to experience love from others every day and that makes me one happy man!

That, my friends, is just a few thoughts from a small town southern man!

Love is more than a 7 point word

Those who know me, know that I like to play Scrabble sometimes. Double word scores, triple word scores - it's all fun. So, let's tie in Scrabble to something that shows up in our everyday life. Love, without any double letter, triple letter, double word, or triple word scores is worth 7 points in Scrabble. Compared to some words you might have managed to hash out in Scrabble before, the word love may seem kind of small. However, when you manage to capitalize on those doubles and triples, you may end up cashing in big time. The same is true in life. You must capitalize on love.

As a business major, I've been taught to learn to capitalize on investments much like you capitalize on words in Scrabble. Love is certainly an investment on which I enjoy capitalizing. You see, love has a lot to offer. Yet before we can capitalize on love, we have to learn what is (the structure of the investment), what it does (the purpose of the investment) and what it gives (the return on the investment).

Love is...

• Giving away the last shrimp even though you know it would taste so delicious
• Putting ear drops in someone's ear because it's not exactly the easiest task for someone else to do on their own
• Buying someone's tickets because you want to show gratitude
• Making friends with someone's dog because you want the dog to like you as much as you like the dog's owner
• Listening to a guy ramble on about his hometown because you know it's special to him (even though it is a little boring)
• Picking someone up at the airport, but dreading when you'll have to take them back

Love does...

• not hog the last shrimp on the plate
• buy things for others that you know they will love
• show affection for someone both physically and emotionally
• shares in a tear 
• shares in a fear
• plan for the future
• encourage in the present
• holds on to good memories of the past

Love gives...

• Time for talking
• An ear for listening
• really, super cool, thoughtful cards
• crazy but really cute pictures
• all it can

You see love is so much more than just a little word. By knowing what love is, what love does, and what love gives, we can all understand that real love is true and it's all about me and you! Love takes two and it's an investment we all need to go and do!

That, my friends is just a few thoughts from a small town southern man!

There really is no place that far...

Distance is a sample word with big impact. Whether it's a long drive, a long flight or just a long walk, distance is something that we all don't particularly like to face each day. Distance is connected to the another word we don't particularly like-separation. Distance, in our minds, is what separates us, whether physically or emotionally. Have you ever felt separated? Take it a step further: have you ever felt isolated? Have you ever been faced with distance? We all have! Some of us have more than others. Yet, what we do with distance is what counts. The best way to deal with distance is to get rid of it. Sometimes we can take measures to drastically reduce distance. Other times, we might just be able to minimally reduce distance. The most important thing is that we do our best to make the distance bearable and that takes effort. Sara Evans' song "No Place That Far" describes the effort we should want to take to make the distance bearable.

"No Place That Far"

I can't imagine, any greater fear
Then waking up, without you here,
And though the sun, would still shine on,
My whole world, would all be gone,
But not for long,

If I had to run, if I had to crawl
If I had to swim a hundred rivers, just to climb a thousand walls,
Always know that I would find a way, to get to where you are,
There's no place that far

It wouldn't matter why we're apart,
Lonely minds or two stubborn hearts
Nothing short of God above
Could turn me away from your love
I need you that much

If I had to run, if I had to crawl
If I had to swim a hundred rivers, just to climb a thousand walls,
Always know that I would find a way, to get to where you are,
There's no place that far

If I had to run, if I had to crawl
If I had to swim a hundred rivers, just to climb a thousand walls,
Always know that I would find a way, to get to where you are,
There's no place that far

Baby there's no place that far

We do very big things for people we love, no matter the distance. Perhaps we would climb a thousand walls or swim a hundred rivers. Love makes you do some pretty crazy things. When you really stop and think about it, love knows no distance. Love crosses boundaries. Love breaks down barriers. Love swims a hundred rivers just to climb a thousand walls.

The truth of the matter is this: Distance is nothing because with love there really is no place that far!!!

That, my friends is just a few thoughts from a small town southern man!

I've got just a few questions...

Life is full of questions. Small children often ask question after question every day. Adults do too, just maybe not aloud. The truth is, people have a hard time with uncertainty, and that is what questions are-things we aren't certain about. The questions that arise in our lives can be simple or they can be complex. One thing stands true to every question though and that is- each question in our life was put there for a reason for it is through questions that sometimes God's master plan for our life is revealed.

For years, I've often wondered why God seems to put good people through bad things. I've questioned how he could allow a pregnant woman to get stage 4 cancer. I've questioned how God can keep two people from being together more often. I've questioned how God can take people from our lives so suddenly.

Through all my questioning though, I sometimes seem to forget what my life would be like if it didn't have questions. Questions lead to answers and answers come in God's due time. A life with no questions is a life that is going nowhere. Our questions-our uncertainties in life are what keeps us motivated to move on. Our uncertainties and questions are what motivate us to fight for what we want.




Clay Walker has a song called "Just a Few Questions I Have". Here are the lyrics:

"A Few Questions"

"How in this world can we put a man on the moon
And still have a need for a place like St. Jude's
And why is one man born in a place where all they know is war
And a guy like me has always been free
And how can two people who've built a loving home
Try for years and never have a child of their own
And somewhere out there tonight there's a baby no one's holding tight
In need of love, to me that don't add up

But I wasn't there the day you filled up the oceans
I didnt' get to see you hang the stars in the sky
So I don't mean to second guess you or criticize what I don't understand
These are just a few questions I have

And why did my cousin have to die in that crash
A good kid only 17, I still wonder about that
It seems unfair to me some get the chance to chase their dreams
And some don't, but what do I know?

I wasn't there the day you filled up the oceans
I didnt' get to see you hang the stars in the sky
So I don't mean to second guess you or criticize what I don't understand
These are just a few questions I have

Why do I feel like you're hearing these prayers of mine
When so many outta be ahead of me in line
When you look down on me, can you see the good through all the bad
These are just a few questions I have"

Despite all the questions in our lives, God can see the good in the midst of the bad. We're going through the bad to appreciate the good. We're going through the questions so that we may appreciate the answers. God hears our prayers and he will lead us to the answers to the questions!

Tonight, let us ever realize that questions will always arise in life. Sometimes we will not understand why things happen the way they do. It's only natural to question things, but as we question things, let's not forget that our questions sometimes make us stronger. When you look back on the questions you once had, you will realize that the answers you now have might just be a big help to someone asking those very same questions one day. So, learn to appreciate the questions and share the answers. Uncertainty can lead to certainty. Are you learning to appreciate the questions? That's one question I have!

That, my friends, is just a few thoughts from a small town southern man!

Bound

We're seemingly bound to many things in this world. Perhaps, you seem bound by your job. Maybe you seem bound by school. Still yet, you may seem bound by obligations and responsibilities that come with adulthood. No matter the case, we all feel bound to something.

In a few weeks, I'll be departing for a vacation. The word "vacation" alone seems to connote freedom and loosening of the ties that bind us. People go on vacations to release themselves from being bound.Yet, on my vacation, I'm seeking to be bound. I want things to bind to me.

I want to bind myself to happy thoughts.

I want to bind myself to friendly fellowship with familiar and not so familiar faces.

I want to bind myself to enjoying the little things like small talk and catching up.

I want to bind myself to learning more about people and learning more about my relationships with people.

I want to bind myself to making an effort to make people laugh.

I want to bind myself to spending quiet time in thought and reflection with those that mean the most to me.

But above all,

I WANT TO BIND MYSELF TO LOVE!!!

I discovered a song by Cher Lloyd containing these lyrics:

"And I like it when you call me, I will always find you
When you need me out, I'll come for you
And when you're lonely, I will find a way to
Guide you home to me, I'll come for you, come for you
I will bind your love, bind your love to me, me
I will bind your love, bind your love to me, me"

Love is the greatest tie that will ever bind mankind. Being bound in love with another person drowns out  fear, loneliness, and uncertainty. Why? Because all of those things cannot break the bonds of love-nothing can!

So tonight, remember that it's not always bad to be bound to something-especially if your bound to love!

That, my friends, is just a few thoughts from a small town southern man!

It's ok for things to be uncommon

The word "uncommon"- what does it mean to you? There's uncommon cars, uncommon houses, uncommon names, uncommon phrases. I guess anything can be uncommon. Anything can be different. Have you ever considered love to be uncommon?

In today's world, it seems that some, by their own admission or through their actions, have a set protocol for love. Yet, is love really something that can be standard. Can love be something that doesn't change from time to time? Can love be like that same old flavor of potato chips that you grab off the shelf each time? Can love be like that same old toothpaste you've been buying for years? These questions may sound silly, but think for a minute. The world tells us love is supposed to be dinner and a movie. The world tells us that love is supposed to be flowers and a card. The world tells us that love is supposed to be a fancy dinner reservation.

Yet, is that really what love is?

Look at this poem by Terah Cox. Dreams, storms conversations and mountains-that's what love is about. Love is so much more than what's on the surface. Love goes deeper than that. Sure, dinner and a movie is great. Sure flowers and a card are a good idea. Sure, dinner reservations are worth it sometimes. However, what really matters are feelings. Can you look at your partner's eyes and tell what their emotions are? Can you listen to your partner's voice and hear their thoughts? Do you know about the dreams each of you have for the future? Do you know the mountains each person faces; and do you climb that mountain with them. Do you weather life's storms with your partner and hold the umbrella for them to keep them dry while you brave the elements? Do you have an uncommon love?

You see, the things that I just described, even though they seem small, are not always found in the couples of today's world. These little things just seem to be uncommon in love lives all around us. It doesn't have to be that way, though. Perhaps you want to give uncommon love a shot. So, start today. Start your uncommon love experience now, this very moment. Stand out from the rest and share in the rapture that comes from uncommon love.

Cherish dreams (know what the other person wants and dreams about and share that dream)

Turn stumbling blocks into stepping stones (make the best of bad situations -TOGETHER)

Weather the storms of life (Don't be afraid to get wet with the other person. After all, you can still kiss in the rain)

Be a lover and a friend (Have passion and compassion)

Have the love that only two can know.

Take uncommon love wherever you go!

That, my friends, is just a few thoughts from a small town southern man!

Still crazy over you

"I'm still crazy over you!" How many couples can say that about each other after 1 year, 5 years, 10 years, or even 50 years? In my opinion, if you truly love someone, you'll continue to be "crazy over them" every day that passes. Perhaps you'll become crazier about them each day, each minute. So, how do two people become cray about each other? Maybe the answer can be found in this song:


Look at Us
Song by Vince Gill

Look at us
After all these years together
Look at us
After all that we've been through
Look at us
Still leaning on each other
If you want to see
How true love should be
Then just look at us

Look at you
Still pretty as a picture
Look at me
Still crazy over you
Look at us
Still believin' in forever
If you want to see
How true love should be
Then just look at us

In a hundred years from now
I know without a doubt
They'll all look back and wonder how
We made it all work out

Chances are

We'll go down in history
When they want to see
How true love should be
They'll just look at us

Look at us after all we've been through - There is no greater testament to the power of love as that which is evidenced in how a couple supports each other through all they've "been through." Life packs a mean punch sometimes, but with two people supporting each other, life is a whole lot easier. You see, you become crazier about someone when you know they'll always be with you no matter what. Are you there for someone? Do you know that you're...

Still leaning on each other- We all need someone to lean on- in the bad times, the sad times, and the glad times. A couple who is cray about each other knows how to lean. Are you leaning on someone?

Still pretty as a picture - Some people say that beauty fades with age or time, but I believe that a person can become more beautiful with age and time. If someone truly loves a person, they see beauty not as soft skin and radiant hair, but as a tender heart and a loving touch. Do you know someone who is still as pretty as a picture?

Still believin' in forever- Yes, forever relationships are still possible, but it takes time, effort, and faith. Do you still believe in forever.

I want people to see how true love should be when they look at us!

That, my friends, is just a few thoughts from a small town southern man.

2015-the year of digging deeper

I resolve to_________. It's that time of year again when people make New Year's resolutions. Some folks keep theirs and others don't. Me, well, I don't even make them. Yet, maybe I should. Maybe we all should. However instead of resolving to eat healthier or save money, perhaps, there is something more worthwhile that we should make a resolution about. Diamond Rio has a song called "Love a Little Stronger" and it will be the focus of my New Year's resolution. Here are the lyrics:

"Love A Little Stronger"

I don't leave any room for doubt
When it comes to you and me
You know all about the way I feel inside
You know how hard I try
But that don't mean that I can't

Love a little stronger, dig a little deeper
Go a little farther, anything to please you girl
Tonight I'm gonna start all over
Show you girl what's in my heart
Ooh, ooh, ooh, gonna love a little stronger

You tell me you're the lucky one
But I see things differently
I have just begun to show you that you mean
Everything to me
I still feel the need to

Love a little stronger, dig a little deeper
Go a little farther, anything to please you girl
Tonight I'm gonna start all over
Show you girl what's in my heart
Ooh, ooh, ooh, gonna love a little stronger

Love a little stronger, dig a little deeper
Go a little farther, anything to please you girl
Tonight I'm gonna start all over
Show you girl what's in my heart
Ooh, ooh, ooh, gonna love a little stronger

Love a little stronger, dig a little deeper
Go a little farther, anything to please you girl
Tonight I'm gonna start all over
Show you girl what's in my heart
Ooh, ooh, ooh, gonna love a little stronger
Gonna love a little stronger
Gonna love a little stronger

Love a little stronger. Dig a little deeper. Those two sentences say it all. For so many people, love is stagnant. We get into our daily routines and, even though we love certain people very much, we sometimes don't "love a little stronger." The good news though is that it is possible to love someone stronger each day, but, as the song so accurately says, it takes some "digging deeper." Do we dig deeper each day to notice things about our loved ones? Do we dig deeper and offer to help our loved ones when they need it, even though we might be tired? Do we dig deeper and take the time to do something spontaneous and special for our loved ones? We could all dig a little deeper, myself included.

Scholars say diamonds are formed about 100 miles below earth's surface and are mined about 800 feet below earth's surface. Diamonds are precious gemstones. Our love for others is also a "gemstone" of sorts and can be uncovered more and more as we "dig a little deeper." So, this year, in 2015, let's make it a point to "dig a little deeper" and "love a little stronger." Let the ones you love know how you feel in your heart. Love a little stronger!!!!!!!!!!!!!

That, my friends, is just a few thoughts from a small town southern man!

Be in the company of a companion

Two heads are better than one! It takes two to tango! They're two of a kind! They're two peas in a pod! Well, what word or phrase comes to mind when you think of two people, especially two people who are close to one another? For me, the word companionship comes along. From the beginning of time, man has desired companionship. God even said early on in Genesis that it was not good for man to be alone. 

So many times in life, people get lonely and all they really want or need is a companion. Something that I aim to do each and everyday is to be a great companion or friend to all that I come into contact with, especially those whom I love the most.

So, we know what companionship is in a general sense but what does it really encompass? What makes us a companion? Being a companion to me is so much more than being a "friend." The word "company" can almost be found inside the word "companion"-all you're missing is the "y." I really think that is what a companion is-someone who is company to another person-someone who is there at all times and in all kinds of ways.

Reba McEntire has a song called "I'll Be" and I believe it accurately describes what we should all "be" as a companion. Here's the lyrics:

"I'll Be"

When darkness falls upon your heart and soul.
I'll be the light that shines for you.
When you forget how beautiful you are
I'll be there to remind you.
When you can't find your way,
I'll find my way to you.
When troubles come around,
I will come to you.

I'll be your shoulder when you need someone to lean on.
Be your shelter.
When you need someone to see you through.
I'll be there to carry you.
I'll be there.
I'll be the rock that will be strong for you.
The one that will hold on to you.
When you feel that rain falling down.
When there's nobody else around.
I'll be.

And when you're there with no one there to hold.
I'll be the arms that reach for you.
And when you feel your faith is running low.
I'll be there to believe in you.
When all you find are lies.
I'll be the truth you need.
When you need someone to run to .
You can run to me

I'll be your shoulder when you need someone to lean on.
Be your shelter.
When you need someone to see you through.
I'll be there to carry you.
I'll be there.
I'll be the rock that will be strong for you.
The one that will hold on to you.
When you feel that rain falling down.
When there's nobody else around.
I'll be.

I'll be the sun.
When your heart's filled with rain.
I'll be the one.
To chase the rain away.

I'll be your shoulder when you need someone to lean on.
Be your shelter.
When you need someone to see you through.
I'll be there to carry you.
I'll be there.
I'll be the rock that will be strong for you.
The one that will hold on to you.
When you feel that rain falling down.
When there's nobody else around.
I'll be.
I'll be.

------------------------------------------------------------------

Shoulder, shelter, rock-those are just words used in this song to describe a companion. We should be that shoulder to lean on-that companion. We should be that shelter from life's storms-that companion. We should be that strong rock that stands the tests of time-that companion. Being a companion all comes down to just being there for someone and that's something we all can do. Let's all create an atmosphere where those around us will always "be in the company of a companion."

That, my friends, is just a few thoughts from a small town southern man! 

Don't let the river run dry!

Has anyone ever told you to control your emotions? I've sure we've all been told that from time to time. However, is controlling your emotions really a possible task? I don't think it is possible to control your emotions. Therefore I try my best never to tell someone to control their emotions. Actually, I'd do the opposite and encourage people to let their emotions out.

If you stop and think about it, on any given day, each individual experiences a range of emotions. Sadness can change to happiness in an instant. Peace can change to fear in an instant. Nervousness can change to calmness in an instant. Emotions are ever-flowing and it is high time that we let them do just that- flow.

When you think of a river, you think of a body of water that is always flowing. Emotions are like that. There's a Garth Brooks song called "The River" and it talks about dreaming and how a dream is like a river. Here's the song:

"The River"


You know a dream is like a river
Ever changin' as it flows
And a dreamer's just a vessel
That must follow where it goes
Trying to learn from what's behind you
And never knowing what's in store
Makes each day a constant battle
Just to stay between the shores...and

I will sail my vessel
'Til the river runs dry
Like a bird upon the wind
These waters are my sky
I'll never reach my destination
If I never try
So I will sail my vessel
'Til the river runs dry

Too many times we stand aside
And let the waters slip away
'Til what we put off 'til tomorrow
Has now become today
So don't you sit upon the shoreline
And say you're satisfied
Choose to chance the rapids
And dare to dance the tide...yes

I will sail my vessel
'Til the river runs dry
Like a bird upon the wind
These waters are my sky
I'll never reach my destination
If I never try
So I will sail my vessel
'Til the river runs dry

There's bound to be rough waters
And I know I'll take some falls
But with the good Lord as my captain
I can make it through them all...yes

I will sail my vessel
'Til the river runs dry
Like a bird upon the wind
These waters are my sky
I'll never reach my destination
If I never try
So I will sail my vessel
'Til the river runs dry

Yes, I will sail my vessel
'Til the river runs dry
'Til the river runs dry

So, what is this river that the song mentions? Emotions and dreams make up that river and they go hand in hand. Emotions are the current that drives the vessel or the dreams. We can let our emotions drag us downstream or we can use them as a valuable asset. Wait! I sound like I'm contradicting myself, but I'm not. You see, the negative current or the negative emotions we experience in life are there for a reason or perhaps reasons. Maybe those emotions of sadness and hurt will allow you to feel the pain of others sometimes and help them through that pain. Perhaps the emotion of defeat will help you to encourage someone else to be a fighter and not give in.

On the other hand, positive emotions can do the very same thing. Our emotions are there in our lives to make us act, to make us think and to make us reflect. When we use our emotions to do those three things, we have learned to sail our vessel, to sail to our dreams. Are you sailing today? Or are you letting the rough waters drive your ship aground?

This river of life will not run dry as long as you let your emotions flow. Emotions are not a bad thing and, when seen correctly, can be so pivotal in helping your own self and others.

Sail your vessel! Let the emotions flow! And don't let the river run dry!

That, my friends, is just a few thoughts from a small town southern man!

Ain't no quick fix at the end of a needle...

We live in an era where medical advances seem to be more outstanding with every year. Yet, there is no medical advance that can fix the evil in our world. Therefore, the question arises, what is evil and how do we fix it?

Evil permeates society at all ends. Sometimes it subtle. Sometimes it rears it's ugly head and makes its presence know to all around. Evil can simply be an ill spoken word that should have never been uttered. Evil can also be a drastic and devastating, senseless murder. Yet, evil no matter the size is still evil.

Why does evil exits?

The answer is simple evil exists because people allow it to. So, how do we fix the problem of allowing evil to exist in the world. The answer lies in the lyrics to a Garth Brooks song called "People Loving People."

"People Loving People"

Doctor, you ain't got a clue
For whatever's making this world blue
You can't get forgiveness at the store
And peace, it's a politician's war

You won't find no resolution in the bottom of a bottle
In the stars or Aristotle, the only answer to the problem is…

People loving people
That's the enemy of everything's that's evil
Ain't no quick fix at the end of a needle
It's just people loving people
Whoa, woah, woah, woah

Words aren't what they seem to be
Talk is cheap but lies are free
We fear what we don't understand
We've been scared since time began

All the colors and the cultures circle 'round us on a spindle
It's a complicated riddle, the solution is so simple…

It's people loving people
That's the enemy of everything's that's evil
Ain't no quick fix at the end of a needle
It's just people loving people
Whoa, woah, woah, woah

You can pawn it off on kings and queens and those behind the curtain
Say what can make a difference in a world so full of hurting
But I believe the remedy starts right here with you and me

People loving people
That's the enemy of everything's that's evil
Ain't no quick fix at the end of a needle
It's just people loving people
It's just people loving people
Whoa, woah, woah, woah
Whoa, woah, woah, woah
It's just people loving people

Evil is an ailment to the health and well-being of each individual. Luckily though, there's a cure for evil and it is people loving people. When I first heard this song on the radio, I brushed it off and was half-listening. The tune was catchy though and it stayed in my head. I've been thinking lately of why people just can't love one another and the song, in a weird but right-on-time way, popped back into my mind. I googled the lyrics and here I am.

These lyrics are so true. People want a quick fix to their problems in life, even those problems with their fellow man. When people start loving their fellow man as they should, their problems may not be solved quickly but I guarantee you they will be on a much quicker route.

I see families and friends who argue sometimes. I see politicians and bureaucrats argue too. They over-complicate their problems and point fingers at each other until they can't do it any longer. Then they wander: How do I fix this? The answer is simple: start loving one another!

The truest words in this song, in my humble opinion, are the ones that say, "Say what can make a difference in a world so full of hurting? But I believe the remedy starts with you and me."

Things do start with you and me. Things start with each individual. We can all make a difference in this world in so many ways, but perhaps the easiest way to make a difference is just by loving people. For, when we love people and they love us back, we send evil running away and love here to stay.

Go out and love people. Love all people-even the ones who don't love you back. I've always loved people and made it a point to try my best to see people for who they really are. I don't always accomplish my goal, but I know that the quick fix to evil is not at the end of a needle but in people loving people.

That, my friends, is just a few thoughts from a small town southern man!

Walking altruism avenue leads to happy street

Me-a two letter word used too much by society. Altruism- a big word that I've never heard of before. What do the words "me" and "altruism" have in common? The answer to that question is actually quite simple. They have nothing in common.

As I look around at the world today, I often find myself getting disgusted by the amount of attention that people give themselves. Everything seems to be about "me" "me" "me" Yet, if you ask each individual if they considered themselves a selfish or self-centered person, most would say that they aren't. That, in and of itself, is evidence of selfishness.

Altruism is a word that sounds quite complex. However, nothing is complex about it at all. The Merriam Webster dictionary defines altruism as: feelings and behavior that show a desire to help other people and a lack of selfishness. Perhaps though, many people do not even know what altruism is because it is not readily practiced.

As humans in a "me" society, sometimes it is easy to focus only on ourselves. Yet, we must look around and realize the value of others in our lives. I would be absolutely lost if not for the love and care shown to me by others.

I often find myself wrestling with ways in which I can help someone. I've always been this way and I'm thankful for that. I am this way because I know what it is like to experience trials and tribulations in life. I've walked a mile in my own shoes and a few more in the shoes of others.

The world would be a much better place if we all did more walking and less talking. We need to walk that extra mile to help a friend in need. We need to walk that extra mile in order to show someone we love them. We even need to walk that extra mile to show strangers that there is someone who cares.

I'm really not even sure to write what I'm thinking right now, but I know this much: I love people and I love people from all walks of life. I'm not sure all people feel this way and sometimes I find it hard to realize that not all people love those of different walks of life than their own. Yet, I also know that through my love for people of all walks of life I have discovered true happiness. I don't have to lay my head on my pillow at night and regret not trying to help a doctor or a homeless man, because I'm here to help them both.

I have a passion for people. I just can't describe it. Well, maybe I can: I must be walking Altruism Avenue because I'm as close as can be to Happy Street! Come and join me! You'll be on Happy Street before you know it!

No message could have been any clearer!

No message could have been any clearer! What message? The message I'm speaking of is in the one so vividly and appropriately displayed in Michael Jackson's "The Man in the Mirror" If you think about it, the average human looks in the mirror each day at least 3 times if not more. There are mirrors everywhere in our day-to-day travels. They're in our bedrooms, our bathrooms, bathrooms at work and on our cars. We also have emotional "mirrors" in life- moments when we take a look at ourselves and "make that change" if we need it.

So, my question tonight is this: Is a change needed in your life? Do you need to take that look in the mirror?

There are so many things we need to look at when we check out that guy or girl in the mirror. Let's allow the song to show us the way:

"Man In The Mirror"

I'm Gonna Make A Change,
For Once In My Life
It's Gonna Feel Real Good,
Gonna Make A Difference
Gonna Make It Right . . .

As I, Turn Up The Collar On My
Favourite Winter Coat
This Wind Is Blowin' My Mind
I See The Kids In The Street,
With Not Enough To Eat
Who Am I, To Be Blind?
Pretending Not To See
Their Needs
A Summer's Disregard,
A Broken Bottle Top
And A One Man's Soul
They Follow Each Other On
The Wind Ya' Know
'Cause They Got Nowhere
To Go
That's Why I Want You To
Know

I'm Starting With The Man In
The Mirror
I'm Asking Him To Change
His Ways
And No Message Could Have
Been Any Clearer
If You Wanna Make The World
A Better Place
(If You Wanna Make The
World A Better Place)
Take A Look At Yourself, And
Then Make A Change
(Take A Look At Yourself, And
Then Make A Change)
(Na Na Na, Na Na Na, Na Na,
Na Nah)

I've Been A Victim Of A Selfish
Kind Of Love
It's Time That I Realize
That There Are Some With No
Home, Not A Nickel To Loan
Could It Be Really Me,
Pretending That They're Not
Alone?

A Widow Deeply Scarred,
Somebody's Broken Heart
And A Washed-Out Dream
(Washed-Out Dream)
They Follow The Pattern Of
The Wind, Ya' See
Cause They Got No Place
To Be
That's Why I'm Starting With
Me
(Starting With Me!)

I'm Starting With The Man In
The Mirror
(Ooh!)
I'm Asking Him To Change
His Ways
(Ooh!)
And No Message Could Have
Been Any Clearer
If You Wanna Make The World
A Better Place
(If You Wanna Make The
World A Better Place)
Take A Look At Yourself And
Then Make A Change
(Take A Look At Yourself And
Then Make A Change)

I'm Starting With The Man In
The Mirror
(Ooh!)
I'm Asking Him To Change His
Ways
(Change His Ways-Ooh!)
And No Message Could've
Been Any Clearer
If You Wanna Make The World
A Better Place
(If You Wanna Make The
World A Better Place)
Take A Look At Yourself And
Then Make That . . .
(Take A Look At Yourself And
Then Make That . . .)
Change!

I'm Starting With The Man In
The Mirror,
(Man In The Mirror-Oh
Yeah!)
I'm Asking Him To Change
His Ways
(Better Change!)
No Message Could Have
Been Any Clearer
(If You Wanna Make The
World A Better Place)
(Take A Look At Yourself And
Then Make The Change)
(You Gotta Get It Right, While
You Got The Time)
('Cause When You Close Your
Heart)
You Can't Close Your . . .Your
Mind!
(Then You Close Your . . .
Mind!)
That Man, That Man, That
Man, That Man
With That Man In The Mirror
(Man In The Mirror, Oh Yeah!)
That Man, That Man, That Man
I'm Asking Him To Change
His Ways
(Better Change!)
You Know . . .That Man
No Message Could Have
Been Any Clearer
If You Wanna Make The World
A Better Place
(If You Wanna Make The
World A Better Place)
Take A Look At Yourself And
Then Make A Change
(Take A Look At Yourself And
Then Make A Change)
Hoo! Hoo! Hoo! Hoo! Hoo!
Na Na Na, Na Na Na, Na Na,
Na Nah
(Oh Yeah!)
Gonna Feel Real Good Now!
Yeah Yeah! Yeah Yeah!
Yeah Yeah!
Na Na Na, Na Na Na, Na Na,
Na Nah
(Ooooh . . .)
Oh No, No No . . .
I'm Gonna Make A Change
It's Gonna Feel Real Good!
Come On!
(Change . . .)
Just Lift Yourself
You Know
You've Got To Stop It.
Yourself!
(Yeah!-Make That Change!)
I've Got To Make That Change,
Today!
Hoo!
(Man In The Mirror)
You Got To
You Got To Not Let Yourself . . .
Brother . . .
Hoo!
(Yeah!-Make That Change!)
You Know-I've Got To Get
That Man, That Man . . .
(Man In The Mirror)
You've Got To
You've Got To Move! Come
On! Come On!
You Got To . . .
Stand Up! Stand Up!
Stand Up!
(Yeah-Make That Change)
Stand Up And Lift
Yourself, Now!
(Man In The Mirror)
Hoo! Hoo! Hoo!
Aaow!
(Yeah-Make That Change)
Gonna Make That Change . . .
Come On!
(Man In The Mirror)
You Know It!
You Know It!
You Know It!
You Know . . .
(Change . . .)


Make That Change.

As I listened to this song this week, I came to see one thing in the mirror that I need to change. I'm very fortunate to have people in my life who care deeply for me. Sometimes, as the song states, I become a victim of a selfish kind of love. I allow myself to become engrossed in me and forget about others-maybe not in an extremely forgetful way-but I forget about emotions and feelings when it comes to others.

I try to be unselfish person, but I'm a firm believer that no matter how hard you try to be unselfish, you could always think of yourself a little less.

So, tonight as I listened to this song I have made a commitment to try harder, to make the world a better place and to look at myself and make a change!

That, my friends, is just a few thoughts from a small town southern man!

Nothing at all that says it all

Sometimes in life, silence arises. For whatever reason, sometimes silence can be golden. Especially in a loving and deep relationship, silence can speak volumes. It's a given fact that couples learn one another's body language and through that body language, love is often displayed. There is an ultimate body language song in Keith Whitley and Allison Kraus's "When You Say Nothing at All" Here is the lyrics:


"When You Say Nothing At All"

It's amazing how you can speak right to my heart
Without saying a word you can light up the dark
Try as I may I could never explain
What I hear when you don't say a thing

The smile on your face lets me know that you need me
There's a truth in your eyes sayin' you'll never leave me
The touch of your hand says you'll catch me if ever I fall
You say it best when you say nothing at all

All day long I can hear people talking out loud
But when you hold me near, you drown out the crowd
Old Mr. Webster could never define
What's being said between your heart and mine

The smile on your face lets me know that you need me
There's a truth in your eyes sayin' you'll never leave me
The touch of your hand says you'll catch me if ever I fall
You say it best when you say nothing at all

The smile on your face lets me know that you need me
There's a truth in your eyes sayin' you'll never leave me
The touch of your hand says you'll catch me if ever I fall
You say it best when you say nothing at all

A smile, someone holding you near, truthful eyes and a tender touch are all ways in which we speak volumes, not through our lips, but through our heart. I have learned in my own life that I must cherish the golden moments of silence and learn to know that we really do say things best when we say nothing at all.

Tonight, the measure of a man or woman can sometimes be found in his or her ability to cherish the golden moments of silence and learn how much meaning is in them. Again, sometimes things are said best when we say nothing at all.

That my friends is just a few thoughts from a small town southern man.

Are they a number or a name

Is he a number or a name? Is she a number or a name? Are they a number or a name? Have you ever just taken the time to think about how people treat others? Have you ever take the time to think about how you treat others? Today, I was reminded to always keep in my mind what I think and how I treat others.

As a  child, I aspired to president, governor, an attorney, and a business owner among many different occupations. Rightfully, the occupations I just listed often come with a great deal of respect and reverence. Yet, sometimes we forget other occupations and the people who fill them. People like the garbage man, the truck driver, the farmer, the plumber, and the janitor often go unnoticed and un-admired.

I've been around all classes of society. I've been at dinners attended by dignitaries like a former president. I've been in the company of high ranking state politicians. I've been in the presence of people of high acclaim. On the other hand, I've been in the presence of the garbage man, the janitor, the truck driver, and the farmer.
Personally, if I had my choosing, I choose to spend the rest of my life in the company of the latter group.

You see, sometimes, we let accomplishments go to our head. I have trouble with that sometime. However, I believe God has humbled me lately and helped to realize the true value of all people from the president to the plumber.

Almost nothing in this world bothers me more than a person who thinks more highly of himself than he ought. When I look around in my own life, it's not the governors, or the senators, or the dignitaries that have meant the most in my life. No, it's the common man.

I have always been drawn to people who may possess little earthly possessions but an abundance of heaven's greatest blessings. For these people, are the ones that you can depend on to make this life worth living.These are the people who have compassion and pity for others but pride and respect for their own self.

Sadly though, the janitors and the garbage workers and the plumbers are sometimes just a number to some people. They're just a check on the payroll or a name on an insurance policy.

To me though, the janitor was Mr. Deas in elementary school and Mr. Wesley in middle school. To me, the garbage worker is Joe or Robbie. To me the truck driver is Donnie or Chad or Keith or just Pa. You see, these people are just that-people! They have families that mean the world to them. They've sacrificed. They've failed. They've succeeded. They have been a part of my world and always will be.

There's an old saying that says, "No matter how far you go in life, never forget where you came from or where you are going."

Tonight, I have a wish that people would learn to see everyone the same. I wish people would learn to see the contributions that all people bring to society-those who are rich and those who are poor, those who are educated  in academics and those who are filled with common sense, those who are black and those who are white. Can't we just see people for people? I sure do try!

Tonight, the measure of a man can be found in how hard he tries to treat people as a name and not a number. Who's your number or is it a name?

That, my friends, is just a few thoughts from a small town southern man!