Sunlit Stream of Water

  Beautiful Fire Fire burns brightly. Love adorns its light. It’s a promise come true. And joy is in the air.   What does this mean? Can people trust these flames? Why is fire important? Let’s rejoice with each flicker.   Some suffer because of fire Sweeping through the landscape They calculate all its damages In the environment of trees aflame.   Yet, others experience fire’s goodness. They keep warm in winter with its flame. Food is cooked that’s very delicious. And candles are lit by striking a match.   So, let us embrace fire’s beauty. God’s gift of its virtuous flames. People do rejoice living in glory. Fire has captured their emotions. It burns brightly by soothing hearts.  

  The Gift of Compassion “Love and compassion are necessities, not luxuries.  Without them humanity cannot survive.”   —Dalai Lama (b. 1935), a monk of the Gelug School.   Compassion is a form of love that is aroused when we are faced with those who are suffering or vulnerable.  The Hebrew and Greek words – “rachuwm” and “splanchnisoma” are at times translated as “compassion.”   Other broader meanings are “to show pity” and “to show mercy.”  Synonyms in the English language are “to be loved by,” “to show concern for,” “to be tender-hearted,” and “to act kindly.”  All these terms help with our expressions concerning how we should pray.  Rumi (1207–1273), a Persian Muslim theologian said, “Great can be a garden of compassion.  If you keep your heart open through everything, your pain can become your greatest ally in your life’s search for love and wisdom.”   Yet, some of us are brought to our knees when we suffer.  Strange as it may seem such pain might provide relief, insight, and

  Walking in Nature Eyes behold nature’s beauty. Trees dance in its loveliness. Breeze sweeps over the hills. Water ripples in the streams.   Walking in nature is delightful. Sad memories just flutter by. Hearts leap with abundant joy. Flowers decorate its rolling paths.   Animals roam in the green pastures. Birds celebrate this festive season. Birth is renewed around the farms. Musicians greet these new portrayals.   But what does happiness mean? Why walk to the sounds of creation? How is one’s spirit renewed? Nature is an incredible change agent.   Picking apples and pears in orchards. Collecting grapes from rural vineyards. Tasting wines that titillate the tastebuds. Enjoying the beauty of nature’s abundance.  

  Save Our Youth American youths are handicapped. Their goals are being shattered. Who should be blamed for such travesty? What should adults do to avoid this dilemma?   Where is the youth’s role models? Why is the air so poisoned? Some public officials are responsible. These individuals spill gas on the flames.   These officials’ lives are deplorable. They are known to have abusive relationships. Some of their children are born out of wedlock. Still, these are the ones who are elected.   Others tell glaring lies in the public arena. People often hear them on radio and TV. Yet, these are the leaders of the nation. Unabashedly, they do so in God’s name.   Young people are the future of the nation. Imagine how they are bogged down with paradoxes. These statements are harmful and confusing to young minds. Why aren’t public officials ideal role models to American youths? It’s time for change in this diverse society that Americans love.  

  Life of Prayer Why do people pray? Does it make sense? What does it mean? Is your prayer answered?   These are all questions many believers ask. But prayer is a way to express their feelings. These may be troubling and perplexing problems That are tugging at their heart, mind, and soul   In prayer most people turn to a supernatural force. Many see this force as their God. This God is known by different names worldwide. But some people believe that their petitions are heard.   Disbelievers argue it’s just their imagination. They say its self-fulfilling prophecy. Others may say all this wishful thinking is delusional. They argue why do bad things continue to happen?   Still, believers continue steadfast in prayer. It makes them feel as though They are tapping into a higher power for relief But it could well be that prayer isn’t for everyone. If it’s for you, you’ll believe your prayers are answered

  Alcohol Addiction It is often said that those who don’t drink shouldn’t start.  For those who do, they should drink in moderation.  Some may tell you how easy it is to become hooked on booze.  Alcoholism is addictive and may cause your life to end tragically.  TV viewers have been shown the tragic loss of some celebrities, politicians, rock stars, actors, and actresses to addiction.  Even if someone should survive alcoholism it can still lead to impairment, violence, suicide, and criminal activities.  Stonewall Jackson (1824–1863), a Confederate General during the American Civil War said, “I am more afraid of alcohol than of all the bullets of the enemy.”  He was convinced that alcohol was bad for Americans.   Media Coverage   Alcohol in the media covered many topics:             •   Debates about advertisements             •   The number of liquor billboards in poor neighborhoods             •   T he positive and negative effects on life expectancy             •   D rink