RESOLUTE (Posted for New Year's Day!)

'Tis the season to make resolutions!!  Ok, ok,  so I know it drives half of us crazy...  hmmm... maybe even more than that.  But I thought this would be wise to digest together, assuming there are no corporate resolutions regarding increasing exercise or shedding pounds.  Granted, personally I always embrace the exercise initiative, but I thought in true "Intramuralist-style" I would humbly offer some resolutions for us all...  

10.  Let's dismiss the politically popular phrase "failed administration" from each of our vocabularies.  No administration has been a complete and utter failure.  Unfortunately, this phrase seems more an arrogant, self-serving PR tactic, spurred on by disagreement.  Let's each be "big enough" people to extinguish this disrespectful phrase.

9.   Let's commit to respecting President Obama, including his wife and children.  Admittedly, this will look different for each of us.  For some it may look like adoration; for others, it may mean refraining from negative speak.  I would challenge each of us to dig a little deeper, recognizing that respect means "to esteem" or "regard highly."  Disagreement and respect are not mutually exclusive; it's ok to do both.  Our respect may then prompt us to say a prayer or two...  praying for wisdom and discernment.

8.  Let's drink more champagne.  Oops... just thinking of New Year's Eve... 

7.  Let's speak frankly about political correctness.  We owe one another respect for differing opinions; we can be sharpened by such.  However, when people mandate acceptance of an opinion instead of tolerance of a viewpoint, that is no longer "correctness."  All that means is that we are only asking one party to be respectful.

6.  Let's exercise more...  oops...

5.  Let's commit to not taunting the non-professional athlete.  Remember that includes college competitors, even if they do play for our alma mater's arch nemesis...  especially during bowl season and the never-ending BCS confusion.

4.  Let's invest in the things that mean the most.  If it truly is "the economy, stupid," then we need to be prudent about our investments...  how we disperse our talents, money, and time...  investing in that which produces the greatest joys in life...  valuing relationship over things.

3.  Let's all agree to accept no appointment by the current Illinois Governor.  (Sorry, but until he becomes a little less self-serving and/or defiant, he will continue to grace the pages of multiple blogs.)

2.  Let's value celebrity less.  Since when has fame become an appropriate substitute for valid credentials?  If one more celebrity wants to tell half the country why they're misguided for having a specific, political opinion, then perhaps we should encourage half the country that there's one less movie career to support.

And 1.  Let's live more intentionally.  Whether it be about your passion or profession...  your family or your faith...  your health or your hobbies...  remember that life is short, so let's use our time wisely.  Let's be intentional.  Let's be intentional about how we interact and sharpen one another.  That's what we're put on this planet to do.

Happy New Year, friends!  Thanks for your faithful support.  You can look forward to continued lively, respectful discussions in the year to come.  As for now, well, I'm off to exercise.

AR

APPOINTMENT or ANOINTMENT?

Ok, call me a skeptic, but I, for one, am getting a little leery of this so-called appointment power.  The now-available Blagojevich Polygraph and Patterson People Finder (sold in Illinois and New York respectively) have exponentially increased my discomfort.

In estate law, appointment power typically allows the will's writer to determine who will have the authority to disperse specific property in the event of the writer's death or impairment.

In judicial terms, the executive branch holds appointment power for judges who are then to be confirmed by the legislative branch.

In regard to elected office, appointment power is used when there exists an unexpected vacancy  (see "Obama, B." -- although one could make a case that the vacancy of his previous office was not unexpected, popular as he long seemed to be).

Previously I would have assumed that in each of the aforementioned circumstances, the appointment would be given to the person deemed most qualified for the job.  However, I am beginning to find greater truth in the colloquial assertion that "to assume" makes only a "you-know-what" out of "u" and "me."

Should we ask what makes a person qualified for a desired position?  Obviously, it is not "in-name-only" (sorry, Caroline), or Pete Rose, Jr. would have found his way out of minor league baseball.  Let's be certain, too, not to throw Andrew Cuomo's candidacy into the "name-only" mix; he has a well-respected name but has also earned his own, individual, solid credentials.

So what makes a person qualified?  Let's try this again:

One, a commitment to public service.  Putting the public's best interest before any individual opinion, best observed by decision-making in previous public service positions.

Two, a history of courageous leadership.  Providing trustworthy guidance for those whom you have been called to lead, specifically in regard to economic, social, and security issues.

And three, a resume of resounding character.  Fulfilling each of life's roles with honesty and integrity (Gov. Blago might want to look into this one when he has a bit more spare time on his hands...  I hear that is coming...  sometime...  hopefully...  much to his supposed chagrin).

I am uncomfortable that government appointments have seemingly become more about who you know or raised money for than about items one, two, and three above.  "Who we know" is not an appropriate resume listing.  Being a loyal fundraiser does not justify advanced, political positioning.  But with disturbingly increasing frequency, we are witnessing Republicans and Democrats alike -- at local, state, and federal levels -- appoint persons who do not first exemplify a commitment to service, courageous leadership, and resounding character.  As evidenced so alarmingly in Illinois, we are appointing people for all the wrong reasons.  How often is this happening?  In how many of our states has this outrageous practice become accepted protocol?  Are we appointing or anointing?

To anoint means to consecrate or make sacred, typically in a ceremony that includes the application of oil.  Unfortunately, it appears there exists little sacred in the current process of government appointment.

AR

CHANGED

Now that no more is hung by the chimney with care – and the words “hark” and “good tidings” will wait another year before rejoining our vocabulary, I’m wondering what’s new… what’s different… I mean if I truly believed that Christmas was the birth of the savior of the world, I think there’d be something in the magnitude of that remembrance that would change me…

Perhaps it’d be a new skip in my step during Monday’s workday.
Perhaps I’d hug my kids a little more tenderly this weekend.
Perhaps I’d be more intentional in teaching my kids life’s greater lessons.
Perhaps I’d work a little harder on forgiving that one from whom I have long withheld forgiveness.
Perhaps I’d realize that mercy always triumphs over judgment. Always.
Perhaps I’d realize during “bowlmania season” that a game is still only a game.
Perhaps I would refrain from worshipping anything other than Him (…that includes the idolization of any Grand Ole’ Party, a golden calf, a sports team, and/or a Presidential candidate…)
Perhaps I would gain the humble confidence to tackle that destructive habit that has plagued me for years.
Perhaps I would surrender more challenges, recognizing that most things are out of my control.
And perhaps I would recognize that having things out of my control can be a very good thing.

A few short years ago, I prayed for a healthy child… or at least one that I considered healthy. You know the prayer… “and Lord, I don’t really care if it’s a boy or a girl… tall or short… I don’t really want him to be too fat, of course… But all I ask is that the baby is healthy, has no defects or disabilities… I can handle everything else from there.”

Well, God didn’t answer my prayer the way I asked. My child was not healthy by contemporary medical standards. He “failed” his genetic test. My guess is he will “fail” a few more future, cultural tests. But he is a kid who doesn’t allow all the crud of life to get in the way. Where you and I have trouble loving all those around us – because we allow appearance or arrogance or even passionate political standing to get in the way – to get in the way of doing what’s good and true and right – young master Josh simply loves people where they’re at. He recognizes the value of others, and he desires to encourage, to day-brighten, and yes, to warmly converse. What I’ve realized since is that Josh knows what it means to love – to love unconditionally – significantly better than me.

Thank God most things are out of my control. Thank God He didn’t answer that prayer the way it was prayed. Thank God, as songwriter Bruce Carroll wrote years ago, that “sometimes miracles hide.” And one more thank you… thank God we can still be changed.

Merry Christmas... always and still…

AR

MERRY CHRISTMAS

If we humbled ourselves enough to listen, what would we hear? Would we hear singing?

“On Christmas night all Christians sing,

To hear the news the angels bring;

News of great joy, news of great mirth,

News of our merciful King's birth.

When sin departs before Thy grace,

Then life and health come in its place;

Angels and men with joy may sing,

All for to see the newborn King.

From out of darkness we have light,

Which made the angels sing the night;

Glory to God and peace to men,

Now and for evermore Amen.”

What do you hear? I hear mercy. I hear peace. I hear glory and grace. That is the good news of great joy that is for all people. For each of us. For every one of us. That is what Jesus coming to Earth is all about… not coming to save us because of who we are or what we’ve done. Not coming because we are so amazingly humble and wonderful and selfless people. Jesus came because of who He is… full of mercy… full of grace. That is the excellent news... news that in our world of celebrity and self-focus that is sometimes challenging to comprehend.

So on this day, embrace those who are dear to you. Know you are loved. You are loved by someone greater even when life is hard – perhaps especially when life is hard. That’s the essence of mercy and grace.

As for me, well, today I will be singing...

"Hark," begins my favorite carol. There's a reason those angels sing...

AR

A CHRISTMAS WISH

I’ve re-written this column multiple times now. It’s not that I don’t wish for much. I wish for LOTS! I like gifts! But after a new outfit, some kind of gadget, and either red wine or Starbuck’s under my tree, truth is, my wishes are fairly minimal… in fact, I think my wish is simply one.

I wish the world would realize that life is a miracle. A miracle: an absolutely amazing, extraordinary creation!

Disregard any thoughts of blogging about a specific campaign issue. That’s not my point.

My point is that if people were wise enough to recognize that the human life is extraordinary, we would treat each other differently… we would treat each other with the care and preciousness that life deserves…

We would be more sensitive.
We would listen more.
Men would cherish their wives.
Women would respect their husbands.
Kids would obey their parents.
Parents would affirm their kids.
All of us would honor our elders.
We would communicate more tangible love.
We would engage in small acts of kindness.
We would quit yelling at those with whom we disagree.
We would refrain from quietly muttering under our breath how idiotic they were, as well.
We would realize that "my opinion" is only "my opinion."
Other opinions would impact us.
Republicans and Democrats would realize that their party platform is not synonymous with "The Way."
Washington D.C. would operate more efficiently.
"Peace on Earth" would be more than a Hallmark sentiment.
And what happened in that manger would mean so much more to us all.

This is a good reminder for me. I mean with the hustle and bustle and seemingly fanatic frenzy, my focus often gazes on things of lesser importance… on things of a much more material nature.

Miracles. Divinely inspired. Deserving of our attention. Deserving of our respect. Yes, that’s my wish this Christmas: that we would realize life is a miracle… an absolutely, amazing, extraordinary creation.

AR

MERRY _________!

With continued wishes to be both merry and happy, I began reflecting on what actually would result in tangible more glee. And so, while I withhold my #1 wish for this Tuesday’s upcoming blog, I do believe the following would add a little more “merry” to the season.

I wish self-ambition would be less dominant. Bear with me for a moment; ambition is good, and self-ambition can certainly propel the wise man forward. However, when self-ambition trumps the common good, I am disheartened. It’s as if we are witnessing foolishness play itself out on a practical stage. I am wondering what else it could be that motivates the Illinois Governor to cling to any leftover political clout. Why does he refrain from tendering his resignation? We do not need any politician – regardless of political party – who looks out for self more than state. That is not public service.

I wish name recognition was a little less impressive. Again, I ask you to follow me here. “A good name” is of vital importance. Once you lose it, it’s difficult to gain it back. But sometimes we value a name more than the depth of one’s actual qualifications. What’s in a name? It was an initial driver for Taft in Ohio and Ewing, Jr. in the NBA draft (…granted, he was also really TALL!). Yet do I dare pose the question – with her political interest now confirmed – as to what would happen if the distinguished and articulate – but non-holding-office-ever – Caroline Kennedy had the last name of “Palin” instead? Truthfully, I am one who finds something captivating in them both, but the reality is that names get our attention – sometimes even our vote – whether the person is qualified or not.

Lastly, I wish political correctness was less magnified. I know of a local school where Santa cookies – let me say that again: SANTA COOKIES! – are not allowed. They are not allowed in that school to acknowledge anything other than the fact that it is now winter. (Come to think of it… I do think they are allowed to declare if it’s snowing or not.) To our Jewish friends, we should wish them a meaningful Hanukah… our African friends, a joy-filled Kwanzaa… and it’s equally ok to acknowledge that December 25th is Christmas, the day Christians celebrate the incarnation of the Messiah. True tolerance means allowing an acknowledgement of what a day actually is – as opposed to ignoring that a day exists. It’s ok to acknowledge Hanukah, Kwanzaa, and Christmas.

So ho ho ho… merry Christmas! Happy Hanukah! Happy Kwanzaa! And a Seinfeldious Festivus to all!

Ah, yes… and to all a good night.

AR

THE (un)NATURAL

There’s something about this time of year that makes us all think a little more about virtues… like gratitude and charity, peace and love, faith and goodwill toward men. But there’s one virtue to me, that trumps all others, even though I rarely see it mentioned on any sparkling Christmas, Hanukkah, or even Kwanzaa card.

Forgiveness. Grace and forgiveness.

This is not a one-blog discussion. I’ve noticed that not everyone believes in grace and forgiveness, and even those of us who do, have trouble offering such both liberally and consistently. I’ve seen Christians and non-Christians extend it. I’ve seen Christians and non-Christians withhold it – unfortunately but often understandably, usually in the name of self-protection. My guess is that old song about knowing we are Christians by our love might serve all of us better if people knew we were Christians by our grace. Offering grace – and not in reference to any pre-meal activity – is an unnatural act.

Today let me simply borrow from one of my favorite books, What’s So Amazing About Grace? by Philip Yancey. I read it several years ago, and it changed the way I think. I plan to read it again as a part of my January resolutions (yes, those are coming, too!). Here is Yancey’s insight as to the challenge of extending forgiveness:

“I and the public know
What all school children learn,
Those to whom evil is done
Do evil in return.

W.H. Auden, who wrote those lines, understood that the law of nature admits no forgiveness. Do squirrels forgive cats for chasing them up trees or dolphins forgive sharks for eating their playmates? It’s a dog-eat-dog world out there, not dog-forgive-dog. As for the human species, our major institutions – financial, political, even athletic – run on the same unrelenting principle. An umpire never announces, ‘You were really out, but because of your exemplary spirit I’ll call you safe.’ Or what nation responds to its belligerent neighbors with the proclamation, ‘You are right, we violated your borders. Will you please forgive us?’

The very taste of forgiveness seems somehow wrong. Even when we have committed a wrong, we want to earn our way back into the injured party’s good graces. We prefer to crawl on our knees, to wallow, to do penance, to kill a lamb – and religion often obliges us. When the Holy Roman Emperor Henry IV decided to seek the pardon of Pope Gregory VII in 1077, he stood barefoot for three days in the snow outside the papal quarters in Italy. Probably, Henry went away with a self-satisfied feeling, wearing frostbite scars as the stigmata of forgiveness.

‘Despite a hundred sermons on forgiveness, we do not forgive easily, nor find ourselves easily forgiven. Forgiveness, we discover, is always harder than the sermons make it out to be,’ writes Elizabeth O’Connor. We nurse sores, go to elaborate lengths to rationalize our behavior, perpetuate family feuds, punish ourselves, punish others – all to avoid this most unnatural act.”

This is tough. At a time of year when a focus on virtues is both apparent and appropriate, have we taken time to ask ourselves: is there anyone out there I need to forgive? Are there any situations in which I have justified withholding forgiveness? Is there anything for which I am punishing myself?

Today’s conversation is merely a beginning point in the dialogue. One blog will not change the world nor those financial, political, and even athletic institutions. Our hearts, however, can be changed… through the blessing that comes via an unnatural act.

AR

REAL LOVE

It was a reunion of extraordinary proportions. To see the gleam in their eyes, the hope and joy overflowing from their hearts… WOW! That’s real love.

We live in a culture where all we need is supposedly love, yet still, at times, it seems rare indeed. There exists way too much oppression, bigotry, and worship of man-made concoctions an earring short of a golden calf. Too many leaders have embraced a leadership style that values speaking louder (more than listening), subduing dissenting opinion (more than learning), and surrounding self with like thinking (more than being sharpened by another). To me, those contradict a love that makes the world go round.

What is real love?

I’ve heard it’s a splendored thing; it’s a verb; and it will keep us together. They say you can’t buy it, can’t hurry it, and some will stop in the name of it. Others question how deep it is, if it will still exist tomorrow, and what it really has to with anything. Some love rainy nights. Some rock ‘n roll. Be careful, though, as several will say it stinks, bites, and claim you’ve lost it. Yet as I ponder the wisdom in knowing the power of love, I am spurred on by something that’s real.

One of my dear friends left for Asia last weekend, flying overseas, putting her family here on hold, sacrificing her resources, to proceed with an international adoption. She and her husband are adopting not a cute, cuddly, and innocent infant, but rather, a 15 year old orphaned teenager. There are no material rewards for this. There will be no fanfare or publicity for the selfless act of this compassionate family. Any thanks my friend receives will stem from the knowledge that she knows she is truly demonstrating love. She and her family are providing hope, opportunity, and a solid foundation for a young girl whose foundational pillars have been previously shattered.

Real love is this: loving the orphans and the widows. Loving with no expectation of receiving anything in return. That’s why there was a gleam in their eyes. Well, truth is, I wasn’t with them in Asia last weekend. They’re still there. But I know if I experienced love like that, there’d be a gleam in my eyes, too.

AR

TODAY'S WRAPPING

Soon I will share my personal wish list for Christmas. I’ll warn you now: I like gifts! Until then, in my pre-Christmas preparations that each of us sometimes wildly engages in, I’ll share what I’m hoping to wrap today…

For Governor Rod Blagojevich: A pen to help him write his resignation letter. (He can sell the pen on Ebay afterwards – to the highest bidder, of course.)

For Hillary. Bifocals. (These should allow her to focus in on the job closest to her – as opposed to some other job she might be dreaming about.)

For the “Big 3” US Automakers: A model car. (One that runs as well and maintains the resale value of a Honda or Toyota.)

For Tony Dungy: A playoff berth. (Is there a man of greater integrity in the NFL?)

For Tom Brady: Microwave popcorn. (He’ll need something to munch on while watching those playoffs for the first time in 6 years.)

For Venezuela’s Hugo Chavez: Terrell Owen’s duct tape. (Surely TO has some that he’s forgotten to use again this year.)

For NBC’s “ER”: George Clooney’s return. (What would make us “ER” fans happier in the 15th and final season?)

For President Bush: Muscle relaxant. (Does everybody from Texas walk that way?)

For President-Elect Obama: An autographed basketball by John Wooden. (John Wooden also took time out shooting baskets, and he, too, led his team well.)

For Natasha and Malia Ann: Barbara and Jenna’s earplugs. (They’ll need them to maintain their precious, beautiful innocence, blocking out the plethora of disrespect some seem to spew when your father is the President.)

For European Television Producers: A filter. (Have you ever witnessed prime time European TV? Oh my.)

And finally, for all the incoming US Congressmen: “R-E-S-P-E-C-T” for those they represent and those with whom they disagree. (Excuse me, but partisanship is ugly. Remember that the most effective leaders engage in respectful dialogue, listen, and comprehend we can learn from one another.)

Time to wrap… remember, I like gifts.

AR

NOT SO GOOD

For those among us who believe all people are inherently good, Rod Blagojevich will challenge your thinking. Wow. This is appalling. Absolutely appalling.

Hailing from the 5th most populous state in our country, the Governor of Illinois, Rod Blagojevich, was arrested Tuesday based on allegations of federal corruption. Long the focus of criminal investigation, Blagojevich was finally charged – one of the charges being that he was attempting to sell President-Elect Obama ‘s vacant Senate seat.

Let’s wrestle with aspects deserving of attention…

First, the arrogance. As we acknowledge that Blagojevich has not actually been indicted as of yet, the wire taps alone identify an arrogance that is disturbing. To think that simply because he is the holder of elected public office gives him the authority to use his appointment power for personal financial gain is despicable! To actually say a U.S. Senate seat “is a [bleeping] valuable thing, you just don’t give it away for nothing,” shows that while Blagojevich may be smart, he is by no means wise. His arrogance only magnifies his foolishness.

Second, the politics. With rumors swirling for years of the man’s unscrupulous behavior, were there people who ignored a lack of integrity out of loyalty to a political party? Was there anyone who promoted a man of knowingly shady character because they felt he would work to advance their particular cause? For even though each of us is capable of erring often (something about that “erring is human” thing), depravity of this magnitude is typically not an individual’s initial attempt at deception. Why was Blagojevich elected in the first place? Who wanted him on the ballot? Who jumped on his political bandwagon for all the wrong reasons? Careful, too, not to jump too quickly on Blagojevich’s Democratic Party standing. If it wasn’t the Democrats, it could be the Republicans. For any partisan to believe his party is incapable of operating in this current culture of corruption, that would be equivalent to grand naiveté. Make that even more foolishness.

And third, the fallout. Thank God Blagojevich and Obama are not close. As the next to assume our nation’s leadership reins, we don’t need a leader scarred from the onset. I admit; it does make me uncomfortable that both men’s careers were propelled by the historically unethical, Chicago political machine. But as for Obama’s current ties to Blagojevich, I pray they are null and void. Just make sure you’re honest with us, Barack. I need my President to be honest (I wish President Clinton would have learned that a little more quickly). My guess, however, is there will be others involved here who are far, far less than honest (and thus, quite possibly, the focus of another semi-witty blog). Too many put self-interest above doing what is right. To be honest is what’s right.

But wait… a final fallout question…

In light of the aforementioned arrogance, I am assuming today that Rod Blagojevich is not remorseful; at most, perhaps, he is merely regretful to have been exposed. So back to the dubious concept that perhaps not all people are inherently good, I have to wonder: where else in our country is this happening? What else is unknowingly for sale? How, as a national body, are we being deceived?

The potential answer is even more appalling.

AR

CHOOSING WISELY

Last week I had the opportunity to visit with a friend, who sweetly shared with me her fond reflections on growing up in a small town – something many of us miss in very comfortable, suburban America. My friend, who currently chooses suburban life, humbly shared the “Keilloresque” benefits of a small town heritage.

It truly is a place where “everybody knows your name.” It’s a place where friends and neighbors regularly drop in on one another unannounced – often daily. It’s also a place where you find yourself arguably a little more accepting, because even if you passionately disagree with one another, the same people may be dropping in again the next day. You go to school together… cheer on the same teams… share in the community successes… work on the community challenges. You laugh and cry together. These people have learned to invest in one another – to take the time to be with one another. They have learned the joy and the sharpening that comes only from relationship.

I am reminded of the wise teacher, who arrived in a new town after multiple speaking engagements. He was somewhat wearied and found rest at the home of two sisters; he was also relieved to have some quieter moments with a smaller audience. There was no PowerPoint presentation to prepare! But there’s something precious about that investment – about those one-on-one relationships. And so the man sat down with the sisters, fording them opportunity to ask questions and glean more from his wisdom. One sister actually sat at his feet! The other, however, was distracted by all the self-deemed, necessary preparations, and thus, she missed this time, hurrying about in the kitchen. Finally, the busy sister disrupted the teaching, sternly announcing, “Teacher, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself?! Tell her to get on her feet and help me!” Aware of all relationships in that room, the man gently corrected the hurried sister. “My dear friend, you are worried and distracted about many things. But relationships are always more important than things. Your sister has chosen wisely.”

Funny… these days we supposedly wish for peace on Earth and goodwill toward men, but it’s hard to be peaceful when we’re so busy “doing”! We buy, bake, bake, buy, wrap, write, toast egg nog, you-name-it. We’re often so busy “doing” that there is no time to sit down and enjoy one another… resting in the holidays… finding meaning in the season… investing in those relationships. Relationships are more important than things.

Small town has it right. They seem to be choosing wisely. Perhaps that should be our prayer this Christmas.

P.S. Only 16 days left…

AR

FAME… EGAD

Few of us will forget where we were that Friday evening, watching a live feed of the low-speed chase of the Ford Bronco, heading south on that California highway. OJ Simpson was famous. He still is.

As I mull over Friday’s verdict – sentencing Simpson to up to 33 years in prison for armed robbery and kidnapping in a failed attempt to recover sports memorabilia from two collectibles dealers – I wonder how many are only thinking, “It’s about time.”

I don’t claim to know if OJ was guilty years ago. As an admirer of success on the football field, I’d like to think he was not. However, it is hard to ignore some of the evidence introduced at his 1995 trial:

· DNA showed that blood found at the scene of Nicole Brown's murder was likely O.J. Simpson's. The odds it could have come from anyone but Simpson were about one in 170 million.

· DNA analysis of the blood found in, on, and near Simpson's Bronco revealed traces of Simpson's and the victims’, Brown's and Ron Goldman's, blood.

· Simpson's hair was found on Goldman's shirt.

· DNA analysis of blood on the left-hand glove, found outside Brown's home, was proven to be a mixture of Simpson's, Brown's, and Goldman's.

· Nicole Brown had told family and friends that one set of keys to her home was missing. She had indicated to several family members and friends that she feared Simpson had stolen them to gain entry. The keys were later found in Simpson's home.

I wasn’t in the courtroom during that trial (thank God!). I didn’t even watch much of Ito and company. But over a decade later, I have faced questions from a curious son who knows his football history. With Friday’s verdict, he asked, “Has OJ Simpson always been a bad guy? I mean, when he won the Heisman, when he played for the Bills, did people know his character wasn’t all that great?”

Excellent questions from a pretty wise 11 year old. I shared with him that I didn’t know if OJ was a “good” or “bad” guy. I didn’t even know for certain whether he was guilty or not. I simply know that if I was a person as famous as he, I wish I would have used my fame a little better.

From the mouth of my babe… “Yeah, me, too.”


AR

HERE THEY COME

The following graces us via The Associated Press this morning:

“A financially ailing Ohio school district has joined the ranks of banks and automakers clamoring for a portion of the $700 billion economic bailout package. Olmsted Falls Superintendent Todd Hoadley said Tuesday that if automakers and cities like Philadelphia, Atlanta, and Phoenix can ask for money, schools should be able to follow suit. ‘I feel a moral obligation to our taxpayers to make this attempt,’ said Hoadley, who requested $100 million from the Treasury Department last week. ‘This is a legitimate request. I’ll be frankly disappointed if something positive doesn’t come out of this.’”

School funding is certainly a precarious issue. In Ohio the State Supreme Court has now ruled multiple times that current funding methods are unconstitutional, as they rely too heavily on property taxes. Yet something makes me uncomfortable with all those who feel a “legitimate” need to reach out their hands, asking for their “share of the pot.”

First the banks. Second the automakers. Then the state governments. Now the schools. Who will be next?

Isn’t that the true billion/trillion dollar predicament? If we begin to disburse free money, to whom do we give it and to whom do we not? I have a hardworking friend who sadly closed his small business last week. I know others who struggle with their mortgage payments – not to mention their kids with the college loans and expenses. Come to think of it, the holidays are coming up, and I could use a little help with the grocery bill during that time. If free money is given out, wouldn’t we all want to get in line?

I have no intention of being calloused. But that’s the problem: contrary to the 4 a.m. holiday shopping sprees, there still is a spree, but there is no end to the line.

Where is the balance between boosting and bailing? Who has the discernment (not to mention the political moxie) to draw the line – to prudently articulate that a strong dollar means not always saying ‘yes’ to those who ask to ‘show them the money’?

The true moral obligation to our taxpayers? Drawing an appropriate line.


AR

MY CABINET

In light of the selection of Hillary – which I still can’t tell if it’s an effort to hire the most tactful or an embracing of the strategy to keep your friends close but your enemies closer – I’d like to offer my own cabinet selections… some deceased, fictional, but arguably qualified. Drum roll please…

Secretary of Agriculture: Orville Redenbacher. Few have done more with small kernels of grain.
Secretary of Commerce: The “Hollywood Elite.” They seem to have lots of goods and materials and like to tell the rest of us how to spend ours (not to mention how to vote).
Secretary of Defense: Ray Lewis and the Baltimore Ravens defensive unit. No one runs on them… not even fierce Bengal tigers.
Secretary of Education: All BCS analysts. They have to educate in the midst of great confusion.
Secretary of Energy: Any of the 4 a.m. post-Thanksgiving shoppers! (ok, so I was one of them.)
Secretary of Health & Human Services: Rachael Ray. She focuses on being healthy and concise – the latter of which seems rare by those inside the Beltway.
Secretary of Housing & Urban Development: Cindy McCain. I hear she frequents a lot of houses.
Secretary of the Interior: Paige Davis, host of TLC’s “Trading Spaces.” She makes everything look good while adhering to a strict budget. Congressmen, hello??
Secretary of Homeland Security: Kevin McCallister, that 8 year old kid from “Home Alone.” Who else can fend off all attackers?
Secretary of Labor: Bobbi McCaughey, mother of the Des Moines, Iowa septuplets. Enough said.
Secretary of State: Condoleezza Rice. With a BA, Master’s, and Ph.D. in Political Science… an expertise in communism, military policy, Soviet affairs, and the NFL… a resume that includes employment by both Republicans and Democrats… mentored by Josef Korbel (college professor and father to Madeleine Albright)… she remains one of the most qualified ever.
Secretary of Transportation: The Producers of the “Amazing Race.” They don’t seem to have problems directing people where to go.
Secretary of the Treasury: Ebeneezer Scrooge. It’s safe to say he wouldn’t be distributing billion dollar bailouts.
Secretary of Veterans Affairs: Donovan McNabb. (This spot can only be filled by a Philadelphian, experienced at handling the simultaneous cheers and jeers at the old Vet.)
Attorney General: The Mainstream Media. This person needs to be able to represent the President well at all times (rumor has it MSNBC began practicing about 18 months ago).

And last but not least…
The Chief of Staff: One of the Manning Brothers. These guys lead both big and small (giants and colts); they motivate the masses to cheer on the entire team. They absorb monstrous hits, but yet, they always come out shining. Sometimes they even get a ticker tape parade…

Searching for that ticker tape…

AR

QUACKERS

Lame ducks don’t quack much. There’s no need. We’re not all that interested in what they have to say.

Like ‘em or not, no longer are we magnetized by their personalities or offended by their actions. Any grand pedestal of respect has crumbled, as more and more we embrace the logic of “out with the old and in with the new.”

We’re ready for the “new” – ready for the next guy (pardon me, Hillary and Sarah) – eager to see what he will do… eager to jump on the bandwagon, seeing if he really can change the world. Of course, no one man this side of heaven has the power –save the ego – to change the world (my apologies to Louis Farrakhan and the German paper, “Bild,” both of which have already declared President-Elect Obama as the “Messiah”).

It is time now to band together, with respectful and bipartisan support for Barack Obama. That doesn’t mean we can’t disagree with him. It is simply an acknowledgement that he is the next President for all Americans.

Psst… but have you noticed the supposed lame duck?

The sunset is setting on the Presidency of George W. Bush -- the bold Texan, the media will quickly tell us, who has seemingly become the object of global scorn. Some of us have joined in the mounting disrespect. Yet watch as the sun sets. He has not screamed in self-defense every time a person referred to the “failed administration” and “disgraceful policies” of the past 8 years. (Never mind that every person who repeated that line had something to gain by saying it.) Bush has remained quiet. He has greeted our next President with respect. He has even directed the U.S. Treasury to save half of the recent $700 billion economic bailout package, leaving it to Obama’s discretion and direction.

Bush is also being silently sensible in regard to pardon distribution – an official act of forgiveness that removes civil liabilities stemming from criminal conviction. Presidents customarily distribute pardons right before Christmas and right before leaving office, but not all have been particularly prudent. President Clinton pardoned Marc Rich on his last day in office, arguably hoping none of us would notice. Rich was indicted on charges of tax evasion and illegal trading with Iran, accused of cheating the U.S. government out of $48 million. Note that his wife was a huge donor to Hillary’s Senate campaign and Bill’s Presidential library. Thus, I would conclude that President Clinton was not that wise of a duck.

So I’ve jumped on the bandwagon, thankful the election is over and eager for Obama’s inauguration. But I am also thankful for the classy, gracious exit of President Bush. He is treating the office as it deserves, even without the fanfare or the media support. He leaves us not with a bang… not with a whimper… not even with a quack.


AR

THANKFUL… ALWAYS

Seven years ago there was a night I wasn’t sure I’d want to remember. Our youngest son, Joshua, laid on a hospital bed in a sedated state, clinging to life. His pulse was weak, his fluids were low, and his oxygen saturation rate – which is supposed to hover in the high ninetieth percentile – had now dropped below 60%. They tried 14 times to administer an IV… in his hands, his feet, and three times in his head. A respirator was employed to keep Josh alive. His infant body seemed only a frail, little shell.

When you come face to face with mortality, it has the potential to change the way you think. Either you become calloused, trying to eliminate all such images in your head – or you become thankful, newly aware that life is a gift and we have an opportunity to live it well. That doesn’t mean life’s always easy or that it will never hurt. It simply means there is much to be thankful for…

For those around us, whom we have an opportunity to enjoy (even the real turkeys in our families)…

For our country, where we can vote, serve, and even respectfully disagree (many countries do not have anything close to that freedom)…

For a God who loves each of us just as we are, giving us opportunity to love Him back.

(On a side note, I wish today, especially in India, those radical terrorist groups would realize that… so iniquitous, they can be…)

And so on this significant holiday, when I ask my boys what they are thankful for, soon after XBOX and fantasy football, they pause and smile, joyfully adding, “Josh’s hugs.” Yes, those mean much.

Joshua miraculously survived that night years ago, so his hugs are indeed meaningful. But his hugs remind me there is always much to be thankful for. Always. So join me in celebration – even if its quiet. Join me in giving thanks. Hug your kids. Hug the people around you. Spend quality time with them. Remember life is a gift. Even when life hurts. Yes, life is a gift even when it hurts. Here’s to living life well.

Wishing you a blessed Thanksgiving and a day of joyfully giving thanks… to you and yours… always.


AR

ROADBLOCKS

I have some friends who won’t step foot into an organized church. Who can blame them?

After all, it’s members of the organized church who have bombed abortion clinics, flown commercial airliners into the heart of the trade district, and screamed that we’re all going to hell because of the rampant homosexuality in this country. Usually they do so, at some time loudly proclaiming their merciless act to be “in the name of God” somehow. Those aren’t the kind of people I’d want to hang around either.

The problem, though, is that those people get in the way of seeing God rightly. And because some people sadly mishandle the word of truth, others will sadly have trouble acknowledging that truth exists.

So who is God and what does He want from me?

He is the One both George W. Bush and Barack Obama profess to bow down to. He is the One reigning Heisman winner, Tim Tebow, credits on his weekly eye black. And He is the One who cares more about the state of your heart than of any Sunday morning attendance or offering plate participation.

What does He want? He wants me to realize that the state of my heart is what matters most… Act justly. Love mercy. Walk humbly. And love Him back. Don’t let something else – or someone else – get in the way.


AR

FORGOTTEN BUT NOT GONE

The morning newspaper is full of intriguing insights. Let me offer a small sampling:

“The $25 billion rescue plan, desperately sought…”
“…An attempt to burnish his gangsta rapper persona…”
“Until we get past this malaise and gloom and doom…”
“The potential for conflict will be greater in 2025…”
“As the nation marks the 45th anniversary of the Kennedy assassination…”

Question for you: where’s God? Where’s the reference to Him being in control? … of our need for His help? … or of credit to His creation – as opposed to promotion of our own performance?

The closest I can get to an acknowledgement of someone who is greater than we comes from the sports section: “Freshman point guard saves the day!”

Where is God? Can we not speak of Him? In the name of political correctness, can we not refer to God any more?

The following insight makes me shudder: "But we have forgotten God. We have forgotten the gracious Hand which preserved us in peace, and multiplied and enriched and strengthened us; and we have vainly imagined, in the deceitfulness of our hearts, that all these blessings were produced by some superior wisdom and virtue of our own."

That’s from Abraham Lincoln over 100 years ago. If Lincoln thought God was forgotten then, what does that say about now?

Making me shudder even more is the realization that in the course of history, every nation that has forgotten God has at some time ceased to exist.

With the current, serious societal activity, this week of Thanksgiving, I know what I need to remember. I know what I need to teach my kids. And I know who I need to start thanking first…


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BELIEVE ME: IT COUNTS

Yesterday, stuck on the back page of my sports section, was a great picture of current baseball free agent, Ken Griffey Jr., and Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice. Junior was just named America’s newest Public Diplomacy Envoy at the State Department in Washington.

How does a baseball player – even one with 611 home runs – become an American diplomat? How about a figure skater and an actress, too? … as Griffey joins Michelle Kwan and Fran Drescher, in addition to Cal Ripken Jr. as envoys.

It comes down to one thing: character.

Character counts. The most important attribute of any public servant. The thing we should look at first in whom we elect, celebrate, and promote.

It’s the reason neither Ted Stevens (R) or Al Franken (D) belong in the US Senate. It’s why we had trouble when Barry Bonds hit home run number 756.

It’s why we cheered when Tony Dungy won the Super Bowl and when Mary Lou Retton won the all-around.

It’s also why we listen every time Billy Graham speaks.

What you do on and off the field matters. Just ask Griffey Jr.’s new team.


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BLAH, BLAH, BLAH, BLAH

I’ve noticed an unhealthy pattern between my 11 and 9 year old boys. Every now and then, usually when low on sleep and thus on patience, a passionate, verbal argument begins to ensue. Gradually yet swiftly, the volume increases, the respect decreases, until one child will actually put their hands to their ears and declare, “I’m not listening! …blah, blah, blah, blah.”

And to think that only kids do that.

Isn’t that what we as adults do – especially when we feel passionate about an issue? Don’t we justify not listening in the name of righteousness? Perhaps self-righteousness?

How about on abortion, for example? (If you know me, you know I don’t believe in such a thing as a “taboo topic.”)

Both sides are passionate about their opinions on this issue. Both have valid reasons for their opinions. But I’m having trouble listening to either of you because you’re so busy shouting at me.

…blah, blah, blah, blah…

Democrats, quit trying to convince me that the baby isn’t alive. I’ve heard that beautiful, miraculous heartbeat…

Republicans, quit ignoring that for some people, especially in the poorer communities, this is an agonizing decision. You need to empathize better…

We need to find a way to talk about abortion in our country. We can start by agreeing that the practice should be rare. Let’s take our hands off our ears and start listening to one another. I know of no one’s opinion which has changed because someone of an opposing viewpoint upped their volume.

It’s time for an end to the blah, blah, blah, blah.


AR

(SCHEDULE NOTE: Current postings occur 3 times per week -- Sunday, Tuesday, and Thursday. Thanks for joining the conversation!)

CARE TO DANCE?

One of the more recent, entertaining examples of fictional character development is Fiyero, the cavalier Vinkus prince from the hit musical, “Wicked.” Initially, Fiyero’s primary ambitions include avoiding stress, keeping cool, remaining thoughtless, and “dancing through life.” You might say his “bar” isn’t set very high.

As the musical progresses, however, Fiyero is moved by the purpose reflected in a fellow student’s life. He is astoundingly attracted to a unique young lady, as he becomes transformed by her example of passionate, purposeful living. He slowly realizes that a beautiful life means so much more than one that remains unexamined.

It makes me think of the NY Times best seller, The Purpose Driven Life… a book in which the very first sentence reads, “It’s not about you.”

So if it’s not about me, what’s it about? Why am I here? What is my purpose? What are we living for?

Are you dancing through life like Fiyero? … or are you cognizant of what God placed you on this Earth to do?

The answer to this question will help you determine how high you have set your bar.


AR

BAIL OUT WHO? WHAT?

According to http://www.dictionary.com/:

bail out (verb phrase)
1. to make a parachute jump from an airplane.
2. to relieve or assist (a person, company, etc.) in an emergency situation, esp. a financial crisis.
3. to give up on or abandon something, as to evade a responsibility.

Call me a compassionate capitalist… meaning I believe in an economic system which favors private ownership over a cooperative or state-owned means of wealth. The compassionate part of that means I am sensitive to when said system has a specific, individualized, negative affect.

But am I compassionate if I negate personal, financial responsibility? What would we teach our children if we didn’t show them how to manage their money? …if we simply bailed them out every time they spent foolishly? …when they made a poor choice? …if we spared them the consequences? (…consequences that often teach great lessons, by the way…)

While it may seem compassionate for our government to bail out private enterprise, there are two reasons I am hesitant: (1) I question whether or not we are negating the enterprises’ personal responsibility. And (2) – the more significant of the two – we don’t have the money. Listen closely, friends. Our national debt now approaches 10 trillion dollars. Let me say that again. 10 TRILLION DOLLARS. Not only do our legislators do nothing to pay down this debt, but they also continue to advocate unbalanced budgets that propose massive amounts of additional new spending.

In the name of supporting good program after good program – in the name of avoiding the politically unpopular – in the name of bail outs and arguably, in the ultimate name of re-election, our government has been ignoring their own financial responsibility. If we don’t soon abandon this practice, the current economic crumbling will look miniscule compared to the future collapse.

Excuse me for a moment… I’m going to see if I can find some compassionate soul to take care of my Christmas bills…


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FOUR MORE YEARS

In four years, what will they say about him?

As I watched the two men, one with past purpose and one with future promise, stroll warmly together down the White House colonnade, I couldn’t help but ponder what our nation will say of Barack Obama in four more years…

Will his promise of change result in productive policy?

Will he still be the media’s darling?

Will his proximity to the pulse of our nation alter his current perspective?

Will he be a bipartisan leader – representing more than those on the fringe right or left?

Will those on the fringe be pleased?

Will his sweet, young girls mature too quickly, or will they remain a contagious symbol of joy?

Will his wife be a gracious, global ambassador, or will she have her own domestic agenda?

Will they refer to all of his policies as heralding from a failed administration?

And will he be treated with the respect that all Presidents deserve?

My hope is that over the course of his first term, not only will Obama be respected, but he, too, will have a far greater respect for the others who have walked that colonnade. We miss that. Our perspectives are too polarized. So here’s to those who have led our nation well… men who have led from the most coveted, earthly office… who have left self ambition behind.

I hope that’s what they’ll say.

AR

FOR DONALD

When he walked into my office, something drew me to him instantly. “No, you have to fill it out here,” I said, which prompted him to drop the application, awkwardly apologize, and timidly utter, “I come back later.” I knew then that if I was going to take advantage of affirming one who probably received little, it was time to put my things down and forget about the next line on my to-do list.

It was against company policy to fill out the application for Donald, but on that busy late afternoon, together we sat for over an hour, as I helped him spell out his address, education, and minimal experience. There was little for this 50 some year old man to write; however, Donald didn’t know how to write. I watched as he misspelled his own name.

Hoping our company chef would feel like he “owed me one,” I played to his compassionate side and convinced him to hire Donald, a man most likely, that current day culture prefers to ignore. Thus began my sweet relationship with this sensitive, articulate man.

He wasn’t articulate like you and I think of. He didn’t use poetic words nor those with phonetically pleasing syllables. But when he walked down the hall to set up the employee lunchroom each day, he had something to say to all, usually with a warm, welcoming smile. I would hear him singing James Brown in the hallway – as he’d razz me for not knowing the words. I would hear him laugh like a little boy. I’d also hear him cry some days, when those of seemingly greater intelligence teased him for who he was… or rather, who he was not.

Donald was a mentally disabled adult… a short, plump, balding African-American man, with a little gray fuzz just above his ears. I saw so much more than that. When he’d see me in the hallway, he’d say, “Hello, Miss Ann! You not like other people. You not like them. You different.” I’m not quite sure what he saw in me; in fact, it blows me away to think of how two people from polar demographics could befriend one another so sweetly. But I would hope it has something to do with the fact that I tried to simply love him where he was at. I wanted him to know I valued him just as he was, and I felt no wiser nor better than he.

For wisdom and intelligence have nothing to do with one another. I’ve known some really smart people who weren’t very wise at all. People who would never sit down at a table with those of a different demographic. People who judge. People who are quick to utter truth – but neglect to offer grace. There is no wisdom in that.

Thank God for my time with Donald. No doubt he taught me much.

AR

THIS IS STILL THE DAY...

“Are you ready for some football?!”

Previously this year, there was a heated debate evolving among friends in Green Bay, Wisconsin. Who should assume the quarterback reins of our beloved Packers?

It was a passionate debate… do we go with the old or the new? The trusted experience or the fresh inspiration? Truth told – when you threw the reporters out of the room – it was obvious there were reasonable, objective arguments on both sides of the playing field.

Yet when the youthful Aaron Rodgers triumphed over Brett Favre last summer, Favre fans had to wrestle with the question: “What should I do now?”

“…do I support my team even though I thought the other guy would be a more effective leader? I have a choice: either I renounce my status and root on those evil Vikings and Bears (the Lions don’t count much this year) – or I remember that I’m a Packers’ fan first, and in order for our team to near any level of greatness, I need to respect the QB, whether I previously cheered him on or not.”

Those who favored Rodgers also learned a lesson. After all, if they didn’t graciously grasp the reality that Favre’s loyal service had made Green Bay a better place to be, they missed an opportunity for growth; they fostered arrogance instead of wisdom. Let none of us be arrogant. No quarterback is perfect; even the quarterback of the future will throw his share of interceptions (He will even do so on national TV!). Hence, I pray our QB has the grace and humility to handle those moments wisely.

It matters not whether I preferred Rodgers or Favre. I’ve never been too fond of wearing green, and that gold has always been a little too bright for me. But I will tell you that I appreciate what Favre did in Green Bay; his leadership spurred on an era of integrity, creativity, and success on the field. I also look forward to what Rodgers will do, even if he employs a completely different offensive scheme. Let me be clear; there are a few calls in Rodgers’ playbook that concern me greatly, and I, for one, will be watching closely. But I believe Aaron Rodgers will be a better quarterback because of what he learned from Brett Favre.

So go Packers! Rumor has it you’re America’s team.

AR

THIS IS THE DAY...

TOP 10 THINGS I LEARNED FROM THIS ELECTION CYCLE:

10. People will do anything to win.

9. Tina Fey is a comedic genius.

8. Limericks using “Obama” can be fun (“Homearama”… yo momma…).

7. Jesus would not be a Democrat OR a Republican.

6. Objectivity in the media cannot be assumed.

5. No party has a true grasp of all that encompasses social justice.

4. “Feminism” does not mean “in support of all women.”

3. People need to pray for our nation more than once every 4 years.

2. Most people don’t know how to respect those with whom they disagree.

And for this playful artist…

1. Both Presidential and ‘Veep’ candidates will be fun to caricature over the next 4 years!


As this election cycle closes, I find myself thankful that it’s over, weary of what it entailed, and hopeful for what is to come – and that’s regardless of whom I voted for. Two years for a campaign is too much… too much money, too much mudslinging, and too much manipulation. Each campaign attempts to manipulate us by promoting desired images, but not necessarily reality. Last I could tell, neither the Messiah, the anti-Christ, nor “George W” was running; neither Biden nor Palin was an idiot; and no administration has been a complete failure.

Let’s move ahead, being respectful of our leaders. Let’s get rid of using the word “hate.” And let’s engage in respectful dialogue in this country, remembering above all else that we pledge ourselves to be one nation under God, with liberty and justice for all.

Time to run… need to find that sketch pad…

AR

COMING SOON...

Greetings, friends!

This blog will officially commence on Tuesday, Nov. 4, 2008. Until then, be prepared for weekly writings that share some combination of encouragement, wit, and teaching (but not necessarily in that order). Know that I will be learning, too.

So join me in this process. Together we’ll examine slices of life from every arena; no topic is taboo. When we listen and respect one another, we can sharpen each other... we can learn from one another... we can grow. So let's have fun in the process!

And p.s. just for the record, if I make any grammatical mistakes, be sure not to tell my mother.


AR