Soul Searching....now that is a touchy subject

I have heard the term often..."soul searching." Numerous people often take this seriously and do a self analysis of themselves. I think it can certainly bring some positive results, but then one has to ask themselves: How do you know your thoughts are accurate?

 It bleeds over into other areas of your life as well. Being divorced for a number of years, I sometimes get on an online dating site , mainly to read about others, their trains of thought, etc.
I find it quite amazing how many people are "looking for their soul mate", and state so in their profile (introduction of themselves). I am not saying there is not such a thing as a soul mate, but it seems by putting such emphasis on that, you can miss out on just getting to know others and enjoy the life you currently have. Personally, I think the "soul mate concept" is more of an emotional myth than true life, but that is me. I think things like relationships develop over time....and perhaps you eventually find the one you want to share life with.

Soul searching is somewhat similar to me....you can analyze yourself and draw conclusions about different things in your life...but what is the standard you are going by? That is why I think having a relationship with Christ Jesus is so important...along with the Presence of the Holy Spirit....they kind of help in the "soul searching" things in my life...and give  me plenty to allow myself to grow and become complete in Him.

OK, that being said.....

Soul Searching is described as : "a penetrating examination of our motives, convictions, and our attitudes on life. It can be done in a critical analysis, yet constructive solutions that allow our attitudes and convictions in life to be given a chance to grow, giving us the freedom to enjoy what life has to offer. It can be in a self-analysis form, when diagnosed with a proper balance, and given to an adjustment period that allows you to redirect values, ethics, moral, and a spiritual stability that brings positive results to your life." ( For me, this simply means...read the Scriptures,and you will find answers to those soul searching questions lol).

Anyway, a number of references give a "Top 25" as to how to perform a "soul searching exam"...and here are the first 5:

1. Identify situations that you have not or are not prepared...what steps could you take now to better understand your situation...are you willing?...are you open minded?...are you able to listen to sound advice?
2. Our emotions can play a large part in our daily decision making. What makes you sad, happy, angry, vulnerable, weak, strong, confident, laugh, or stressed. What changes could you make so emotions would not be the controlling factor in making daily decisions.

Note: Here is a quote I read recently: "Dwelling on fear and negative emotions...achieves the creation of...more fear...and more negative emotions."

3. Everyone has regrets in life, feelings and/or loss in each one of our lives. Take a moment, consider how you have handled some of the hurts and tragedies in life, and ask your self: "Would you handle them any different now?" Are you able to forgive yourself for wrong choices or decisions you might have made?" Can the Scriptures give you the tools needed to do so?
4. Is "love" really the ultimate goal in life...both for God and fellowman? Why?...and why is it so important to have "love in our hearts?" What does "love mean to you anyway?
5. Commitment...how important is it in your life? Does it make you "feel better?" Are you happy you made a decision to commit to something...or someone?...or do you regret  it?...maybe even bitter over it and hate the fact you made a decision to commit in the first place? Can you find happiness in commitment?

Ok...enough thought for now...my brain hurts (lol)...Oh...one more quote I read: "The value of finding your identity is that it often comes...with purpose." Richard Grant
 

The History of Toilet Paper

There are inventions...and then there are real inventions. (lol) Toilet paper...I will let you "file" it where you think it belongs.....

 Toilet paper has many names (slang): some refer to this product as "bum wad", others simply "TP", while others refer to toilet paper as "dunny roll", and of course to some it is referred to as "arsewipe". Regardless, toilet paper is an important household item in some areas of the world. And unlike facial tissue, toilet paper is designed to decompose in our sewer systems.

 China has been given the distinction of the invention of toilet paper. It was first discovered in a writing by Yan Zhitui, a scholastic official of his time, and wrote in approximately 580 A.D.: "Paper on which quotations or commentaries from the 5 Classics or the Names of Sages, I dare not use for toilet purposes."
 It was later again the subject of an Arab traveller in China around 851 A.D. He wrote: " The Chinese do not wash themselves with water when they have finished their necessities, but they only wipe themselves with paper."

 Between 1368-1644 AD. the Ming Dynasty was recorded to have made 720,000 sheets of the "fluffy stuff"....the size of each sheet of toilet paper??...2 feet by 3 feet!...now that is taking this necessity in life a little more seriously! These were made at that time for general use in the Imperial Court.
 The flip side to the "toilet paper invention" was and still is the fact many parts of the world are apprehensive of the use of toilet paper, considering water a much cleaner and sanitary form of practice.

 Joseph Gayetty is credited with the more modern and commercially toilet paper we have available now here in the U.S. Gayetty presented the "modern use" of this product in 1857, and was still being used into the 1920's.
 Toilet paper today is available in a wide variety of patterns, with decorative designs from "teddy bears to tulips". Some toilet paper today can be purchased moistened and/or perfumed. The average roll of toilet paper today weighs about 8 ounces.

OK...things you might like to know(lol):
1. One full grown tree is capable of producing 100 pounds of toilet paper.
2. 25 to 50% of the toilet paper used in the U.S. comes from farms in the U.S. and from South America. (Where the rest of it comes from?...my people are investigating that...right now! (lol).
3. Even today approximately 4 billion people in the world do not use toilet paper, which accounts for 70 to 75% of the world's population.
4. "A trick of the trade"" 2-ply toilet paper has a thickness of what is referred to as "10". 1-ply tissue has a thickness of "13". So, 1- ply does not mean you are getting double the thickness...imagine that!
5. Now...here is where it really gets interesting (lol): a) the average and experienced toilet paper user will use 8 to 9 sheets per use. b) during a lifetime, the toilet paper user will use 100 rolls per year...which equates to 384 trees in a lifetime.

 Along with all the facts on toilet paper readily available today, psychology has also deemed it necessary to look at the various uses of this product. Here then are some of their conclusions...some of these results from our tax dollars in action! :
1. If, when attached to a hanger, you choose to pull the toilet paper from the top of the roll, this is what you are saying about yourself: you are faithful, logical, and sensible. You tend to be a traditionalist in nature.
2. If, when attached to the hanger, you pull toilet paper sheets from the bottom of the roll, then you are considered : a carefree, enthusiastic, and spontaneous individual.
3. If, when "changing rolls, you simple leave the roll sit on top of the hanger, you are deemed reckless...incorrigible...and lazy!
4. If, when the hanger is empty, you choose to leave it remain in that state (for the next person...how "cold" is that!! lol), there is obviously much hate and bitterness in you heart...for all mankind!

 One quote I came across when reading on the value of toilet paper: " Today we can go to a gas station, and find the cash registers open and the toilet rooms locked. So, you have to ask yourself, has the price of toilet paper...gone up?"

 And for Christians who are concerned on meeting their Maker...just grab " a roll of toilet tissue", and sing from your heart..."When the roll is called up yonder...I'll be there!"

 

The fatherless...they find their rest...at the sound...of His Great Name

Ok, this is a tough one...simply because of the emotions that want to surface when it comes to this subject. This phrase which I think is right on target: "The fatherless...they find their...rest.
 That particular word "rest" linked to the fatherless...describes exactly the feelings of a "lost child". Although I had a wonderful Grandfather that gave me much support, my own father left our home at a very early age...and came in and out of my life the best he knew how. He had his own set of problems...and thought the only way to escape his personal tragedies in life was..."drink the pain away"...like many of us at one time or another. 

 Studies indicate that from 1960 to 1990, children living apart from their fathers doubled...from 17% to 36%. By 2000, 50% of American children go to sleep each night without a "good night" from their...Dad. Today, the percentages continue to climb...up over 60%. At my own work the other day, I overheard two young guys speaking to one another about families, and the one guy was in a "state of shock". He said to his friend: "No Way....your real father still lives with you and your Mom?"
 The "fatherless syndrome" is not new to society. In fact, it was even more common in ancient times, but, the similarities stop there. In times past, the primary reason for children growing up fatherless was death...the father had passed for one reason or another. In today's society, the primary reason for children being fatherless is due to desertion, abandonment, or out-of-wedlock births that the male simply does not want to "own up to".

 In some social science research, it has been found children struggle immensely from the loss of a father due to abandonment...much more than a death of a father.
 It has the same reaction as a divorce at times. In a death, there is a definite finality...the person is no longer here to make choices in life. In a divorce, the person is still quite alive, but has chosen to "move on"...and simply abandon his own.

 Lawrence Stone, a noted Princeton family historian, issued a statement in reference to how in today's society the death rate among fathers have slowed down dramatically, yet the divorce rate that allows men to abandon their own children has simply...skyrocketed.
 He writes: " The scale of marital breakdown in the West since 1960 has simply no historical precedence that I know of, it is unique to itself and it appears there has been nothing like it...for over 2000 years."
 David Popenoe, in his book: " Life Without Father" wrote: "Growing up without a father may be a root to the cause of many social ills today...from crime to academic failure."
 Honestly, there are so many stats, consequences, and general info on the "fatherless" on the "web", you could easily devote your life to this "living cause". I totally honor and respect those who are out there even now reaching out to children...the fatherless...of our generation.

 The phrase in this song...At the Sound of His Name...strikes a cry from the "Heart of the Fatherless"...an ache...a pain....from the hurt and the unrest within.

 A couple of Gleanings from the Sacred Scripture goes like this:

James 1:27: " Pure and gentle religion...the real thing...stemming from a true relationship with the Master Himself...not from following a set of laws or honoring a particular code...is this: We need to be visiting and helping and caring for the orphans and the widows in their daily distresses in life, and to be doing so from pure motives...not from sensual or selfish desires."

Psalm 82:3-4: " You got to stand up for the weak...and the fatherless. Don't turn your head to those you see with your very own eyes that are helpless and destitute.
 Your "job" is to assist in rescue when you encounter situations like this, and do your utmost to aid them however you can...against the powerful hands of a ruthless and heartless people."

 The Fatherless...find their Rest...at the Sound of His Great Name

Hungry Souls...Receive Grace...at the Sound of His Great Name

3 more phrases to go...from the song, "At the Sound of His Great Name". So, the first thing on this phrase...Hungry souls??
What exactly is a...hungry soul?

Hungry is pretty self-explanatory..but I may touch on that a little later. First, soul...what is a soul?
Soul is often described as "the immortal essence of a person". Some think souls are immortal in humans, but in all other forms of life...the soul dies when life comes to a close.
 The soul can include the mind, our psyche, our self-will in life, our emotions, and in some circles include "our spirits".
 The soul has received numerous descriptions including Aristotle, Plato, and Thomas Aquinas. Various religions have identified "the soul" in the quest for a fulfillment to our meaning of true life.
 It seems the Sacred Scriptures seem to indicate a soul from the early writings in Genesis. In Genesis 2:7, it reads: " And the Lord God formed man of the dust of the ground, and BREATHED INTO HIS NOSTRILS THE BREATH OF LIFE, and man became a living being."
This verse would seem to indicate something marvelous occurred. God had an idea beyond comprehension. He made it so we would be different from the animal or the vegetable kingdom. Although we as man were made from the soil...as are vegetables...God breathed into man..the Breath of Life. Animals breathe, vegetables, fruits, and all other forms of life breathe..but man became unique to all other "kingdoms"...he was given the "Breath of Life". 

 Man brought a unique twist to all of creation. Man is certainly allied to the earth by being made from the same content as all other forms of life, yet is given a gift of being in union with God the Father Himself...an actual relationship with the Creator...when He breathed into man...Life.
 Prior to this event, all forms of life both in the animal kingdom, the plant kingdom, the fish of the sea, the stars...everything was created through...the Voice of His Command. Man was given what no other form of creation had ever experienced...God blew His own Life...right into the heart of man. Thus, we now all inherit this Life from God...our very souls.

 So, because of receiving Life from the One who created us...we will always have a hunger...a hunger for Him! People will do their best to "cover it up", replace it, give themselves to good and just causes, anything that will satisfy the hunger within.
 There is only one way to satisfy this hunger: "Hungry souls...Receive Grace...at the Sound of His Great Name"!

 You see, for me, Grace is the undeserving yet available Mercy God has made possible for us to have...when we yield our lives to the One who Died for Us...Christ Jesus...and take the time...to know Him! When your own heart hears "The Sound of His Great Name"...what is its reaction?

Here comes the...Camels?...Where is the Calvary?

On July 8th, 1856, an experiment was conducted in conjunction with "taming" the frontier, which in this case was: West Texas.
 West Texas has been an arid climate, and during the mid 1800's, it was a land of both exploration and a place where you would have to pass through to arrive out west. West Texas, generally from San Antonio to El Paso, was a home to numerous potential hardships including Mexican outlaws, hostile Indians, and gold rushers trying hastily to pass through. This land required the services of the Pony Express, stagecoaches, and U.S. army military movements. It was a violent region, home to the Apache, Comanches, and the Kiowa until after the Civil War. And of course, a major issue to the general region was...the lack of water.

The U.S. Secretary of War at the time was...Jefferson Davis (soon to be President of the Confederacy), and he suggested a bill which passed the votes of Congress named the:"Camel Appropriation Bill", and this particular project became a reality.
 In Kerr County Texas, a Camp Verde was established and on July 8th, 1856,  there was a total of 66 camels imported from the Middle East, a single humped camel known as the feral camel, to help explore, carry supplies, and travel in general through the arid region.
 This particular experiment was under the leadership of a man who was dispatched to Camp Verde: a decorated military officer named Edward Beale. A Lt. Robert E. Lee was also of said to be involved with the project.
 The idea of a feral camel used to explore dry regions had already gotten started in Australia...in the arid Outback. Upon the arrival of the camels, the horse soldiers soon learned feral camels were not the most obedient animals to work with. They had the capability to spit, regurgitate, and generally disregard commands. Feral camels did not get along well with horses, and the soldiers detested the smell of these desert travelling animals.

 Feral camels had certain characteristics that helped them in adapting to the arid climate. When foliage was green, the feral camel could gain all the water they needed through plant life and did not require any water to drink. On the other hand, when a feral camel was thirsty, and came upon a watering hole, a feral camel was capable of drinking over 200 liters of water...in less than 3 minutes! And no, water was not stored in the "hump". The hump was pretty much "fat" and used as a source of energy.
 The experiment conducted at Camp Verde was deemed a success. It was found a feral camel could travel long distances faster than a horse (up to 1/3 less time), and 6 camels could carry the weight of 2 mule wagons drawn by 6 mules per wagon, and cover a distance designated in about 1/3 less time.

 In1861, Camp Verde was captured by the Confederate Army, and after the War, the U.S. military found approximately 10 camels at the Camp still alive. Camp Verde was disbanded in 1869, and the feral camels were sold, stolen, and even a few got away.
 In 1941, a man was doing some local research for an area in West Texas, when he looked up...and there he stood...a feral camel!

4 Dead in Ohio...memoirs of May 4th, 1970

As summer begins to fade here in 2012, I look back and think of a strange and remorseful summer that I ever was a part of...the summer of...1970.
 I was still in high school...the year about to conclude...and the summer about to unfold, and there was turmoil everywhere. Viet Nam had become so "out of whack"...why were we even there at this point and time? There was some understanding as to some of the horrible atrocities going on in South Viet Nam, yet over 58000 Americans were killed to keep freedom alive as long as possible in that region of the world.
 Things were messed up. President Kennedy had launched a program to have a timeline to assure us we would pull out of 'Nam. Lyndon B. Johnson reversed the plan and kept us prodding forward in "Nam. There was a fear for almost 20 years or better on the growth of communism throughout the world, and Viet Nam Conflict was a necessity to keep communism contained and a 'balance of power'.
 There was chemical warfare going on...napalm...agent orange...and of course the deaths of many young Americans. There were reports of the U.S. troops themselves involved with inhumane atrocities...and when soldiers did return to the states they were screamed at even as they arrived at the airports as "baby killers"...they were spit on...and verbally abused.
 There was much to do about peace...world peace...and Viet Nam offered no comfort to the many young people (including myself) who were shouting it. Joan Baez was singing the anti-war protests songs and Jane Fonda...well, she took it  "way too far" (in my opinion).

 Then, on April 30th, 1970...President Nixon appears on national T.V., and announces the invasion of Cambodia to keep the communist regimes from control of that area of the world. This invasion would require an additional 150,000 U.S. troops to be drafted ( I remember watching the draft on T.V.,...I was #58...going by your birth date).
 That was the "last straw"...the Viet Nam Conflict (never officially declared a War by Congress)...was too much for the mass to accept. Then, on May 4th, 1970...a cold reality of what it was doing to America came to the forefront.

 Much protest had already began shortly after Nixon's announcement of 150,000 additional troops throughout the country. At Kent State, in Ohio, things were really getting "hot". Protesters to the war had already set an ROTC building on fire, and as a result James Allen Rhodes, the governor of Ohio, sent 900 National Guardsmen to the Kent State campus to try and keep peace and order.

 Then it really happened. It was in the early afternoon of May 4th when 28 Guardsmen were ordered to open fire on the protesters on campus. There had been reports of a sniper firing on the Guardsmen, but that was never confirmed. There was indeed some rock throwing going on. Some of the 28 Guardsmen pointed their rifles in the air when the firing began...but not all of them.  When the firing ceased, 4 Kent State students were killed...and 9 others wounded.
 Shortly after this tragedy, protests throughout the country went "through the roof". Nearly 500 colleges were either shutdown or disrupted by the chain of events brought on at Kent State.

 Later, a photo received the Pulitzer Prize, the image being a woman kneeling in anguish, arms upraised, beside one of the slain students.

 On May 14th, 1970, Jackson State University in Mississippi joined in protest of 'Nam, and 2 more students were killed while 9 more were wounded.

 The following students lost their lives that day at Kent State:
1. Allison Krause...19 years old from Pittsburgh, Pa.
2. Sandra Lee Scheuer...20 years old from Youngstown, Ohio.
3. Jeffrey Glenn Miller...20 years old from Long Island
4. William Schroeder...19 years old from Lorain, Ohio.

The following students lost their lives on May 15th, 1970 at Jackson College (now Jackson State University):
1. Phillip Lafayette Gibbs...21 years old...a junior at Jackson State
2. James E. Green...17 years old... a senior at a nearby high school (Jim Hill High).  

There were a total of 69 arrests made that day at Kent State University.

Crosby, Stills, Nash, and Young created a song shortly after the Kent State tragedy. David Crosby was quoted: " It's still hard to believe we had to write this song. It's ironic that we capitalized on the death of American students. Probably the most important lesson learned at an American place of learning."
 The song, entitled:"4 Dead in O-HI-O", opened up with this chorus:
            "Tin soldiers and Nixon coming
              We're finally on our own.
              This summer I hear the drumming
              4 dead in O-HI-O"

 This event is said in some circles to end the "Woodstock Nation". We began pulling out of Viet Nam shortly after that...and by 1975...Viet Nam was officially...over.         

"All the Weak...Find their Strength...at the Sound of His Great Name" part 4

Continuing on in the song, "At the Sound...of His Great Name", there is this line in the chorus: "All the weak...they find their strength...at the Sound of His Great Name."
 First, I often hear the phrase "God is making me to suffer because I haven't followed His Commandments." I think we all have said something like that at one point or another in our lives. Yet, as I read and study the Sacred Scriptures I see something different about "our times of suffering". It isn't about us and messin' up one of His Commands that seem to hurt God our Father and cause us to believe He sends some kind of "lightning bolt" into our lives to teach us a lesson. No, it's us...we do it to ourselves...and we do it by the way we treat one another. It's not "God comin' down hard when we screw up one of the 10 commandments"...rather...we bring our own consequences when we see someone hurting...and don't care. It's seeing the poor...and ignoring them...or worse...take advantage of them because they are poor. It's seeing someone at work...perhaps battling some self-esteem issues, and you add to their woes by telling them they are "sub-standard". In fact, the final 6 commandments of the "Big 10" are all about how we treat one another.

 So...how do we find our strength in Him?

 In the first 39 chapters of Isaiah, God has been using the prophet Isaiah to warn His people of judgments...judgments that are a result of very sinful and narcissistic lifestyles that ultimately caused them to treat one another in  horrific manners. Although their hearts had turned from the Lord....the real anger God had was...how they treated their very own. The people of Israel had gotten to the point where they chose to ignore the poor, in fact using these very poor to better themselves. Instead of Compassion, they chose Greed and Self-Indulgence; instead of helping the widows, the orphans, and the weak...it was easier to simply...ignore them. After all, they aren't going to "make it anyway in life, just  look at their upbringing or how they look." (Haven't we all made statements are at least thought that way about others at some point in our lives.)
(Note: One of the reasons I go to the church I go to...is because of my own pastor's outlook toward others. This "guy" sees the potential in all of us, and one of his many strengths is his compassion for all. I will be forever grateful for his faithfulness to those of us who are "poor and weak". )

 So, as a result, Assyria devastated Israel, and although it is easy to blame God for allowing it to happen, the truth is Israel was so "into themselves", perhaps even arrogant about life, God could not reach them to instruct them on how to avoid the siege...kind of like us when things are "going good"...why seek God...we got it all under control! Right??

 Yet, here in chapter 40 of Isaiah, God begins to offer the comfort and hope Israel was so in need of. In fact, between chapters 40 through 66 of Isaiah, the word "comfort" appears at least 13 different times.
 In Isaiah 40:27-31, God begins to reassure Israel He has not left them. He instills in them a hope that He does care. He reminds them His Strength and Compassion are much different then theirs, and His Power is about to arrive.....

                                                     Gleaning from Isaiah 40: 27-31

 " O Sons of Jacob, I hear your cries of abandonment, your thoughts I have "hidden Myself from you"...and even...I have chose to abandon you.
 Of all people, how can you say that? Isn't it the way you treated your "very own" that caused this tragedy to come? How can you ...compare Me...to you? How can you say...I am treating you the way you have treated "your own"?
 I am not...like you! I do not grow faint or weary...of helping those "bent beneath their loads in life"...including My love...for you! I do give aid to those who depend on Mercy...something you totally abandoned and refused to give others.

 I will give you the strength...all of you who are weary, wore down, and trodden on. My Power will give strength to all those who are weak.
  Even your "young studs" grow tired and weak at times, as for Me, I do not need a pause to "catch my breath".
Young men are still capable of stumbling and falling at times...but for those who turn to Me, and put their trust and their hope in Me...they will find their strength increasing...no matter what your eyes may be telling you at the moment.
 Those who put all their trust and reliance in Me, and wait for Me to put all My strength into action in their lives, will find themselves feeling like an eagle...mounted on the cliff, wings spread out, ready for the winds to pick them up and carry them...into the heavens.

 And they will continue to walk...their strength increasing... with each step...while weariness is fading...with each step."

All the Weak...shall find their Strength...at the Sound of His Great Name...

The enemy...he has to leave...at the Sound of His Great Name

Continuing on with Natalie Grant's song, "At the Sound of His Great Name", now I come to the phrase: "the enemy...he has to leave...at the Sound of His Great Name."

 The devil...the enemy of Christianity...much has been thought and written about this being...throughout the course of history. Some, even in Christian circles, write that he is more of a mythological being than a real one. Others write that the devil is the symbolism of the "dark side" of human nature.
 Even in the Laveyan Satanic church, the devil is not believed to be a literal being, rather uses his persona as a metaphor to man's true nature. Things that have been branded as "evil" in the traditional Christian sense, or even where morality is given proper recognition, are looked upon as a source of enjoyment to members of the satanic society. Sexuality, pleasure, lust, ego, pride, accomplishments, and materialism is given acceptance as part of humanity's development in life.

 Martin Luther seemed to view the devil as more of a personal adversary, one that gets involved wherever he can in our daily lives. Maybe the train of thought: "The devil made me do it" found its origin in this type of belief.
 John Calvin wrote: "Man is like a horse, with either God or the devil as rider."
Other Christian authors look upon the devil as a type of allegory, rejecting the belief there actually is a literal devil.
 On May 24th, 1987, at the Sanctuary of Saint Michael, Pope John Paul ll gave a view on the devil that suggests we need all the help available to stop the works of Darkness from having interference in our lives. He is quoted: " The battle against the devil, which is the principal task of Saint Michael the archangel, is still being fought today, because the devil is still alive and active in the world. The evil that surrounds us today, the disorders that plague our society, man's inconsistency and brokenness, are not only the results of original sin, but also the result of Satan's persuasive and dark action."

 So, what about the figure with the tail...and carrying a pitchfork..is that him?...the devil?
Well, I do agree with Pope John Paul ll...that the battle against the devil is still being fought today. I think what really makes me realize there is a devil and he is alive and he is resistant to the things of Kingdom of God, is some of the "cool" things Jesus said about him.

 Check out some of this stuff:

                                        Gleaning from Matthew 6:10
 Jesus in the Lord's Prayer: " Come, set up Your Kingdom, so that everyone on earth will obey what You command in Heaven."

                                        Gleaning from Luke 10:18-20
"Yes, I know Satan...I saw him fall from heaven...in the same manner you would see a flash of lightning in the sky. He may have landed here on earth and is trying to "flex his muscle", but I am "all over it"...his days are numbered...his time is about up!
 For now I am giving this to you: I give you the Authority invested in Me to trample all his "snakes and scorpions", whether they appear to you physically or whether they "sliver in your mind". My Power will protect you from every assault Satan has planned...for you! Trust Me, there is nothing in his arsenal that can really cause any permanent harm or injury to you.
 Yet, remember this: don't give the enemy "the time of day" by focusing on the power that comes from Me to destroy his plans...Instead, look to the Father, whose love for you is great...and rejoice because of this: your name has been chiseled in...the Book of His Heart...the Source of Life itself...and that would be....Me."

                                         Gleaning from Matthew 28:18
Jesus approached the disciples and broke the silence with this Declaration: "All authority...anything that has to do with a ruling power...that comes from only...Me! I have complete and total Authority...not only in Heaven...but right here...on earth as well."

 So, no I don't think Satan walks around with a tail and a pitchfork...I don't know, he may have all that...but when war is declared...that is not the time to "get out your halloween costume". Jesus recognizes he is a real enemy....and Satan realizes....Christ Jesus is his real foe...do you think Satan knew what he started?...

          
                      "The enemy...he has to leave...at the Sound of His Great Name"

Homeward Bound.....

Do you ever go through a period in life where it seems no matter what you are attempting to do, it seems you are kind of left dumbfounded? Sir Francis Bacon once said: " May you discover more opportunities than what you find."
 In other words, you try some things...take some ideas you have had...maybe reach out to others like you have never done in the past...and you are kinda just "hangin' out there.?
 Well, I have...and in its these times I take comfort in the Sacred Scriptures. He acknowledges and takes a delight I think when we take "those chances" in life...and do something to comfort or attempt to help others. You almost have to at times...it is what makes each one of us unique..me being me...you be you.
 In Isaiah 55, the Israelites are returning home...they had been in exile for quite some time. It had to be a "little weird"...exercising freedom when they had been enslaved for such a long period of time. Yet, in the midst of it....the Lord speaks to them in this matter...

                                            A Gleaning from Isaiah 55: 12-13

 "For now you are coming into the "Homeland", no longer in a state of exile...physically or spiritually..caused by the evil intentions of the heart.
 Instead, you are now being led by the Captain Himself, our Lord Jesus, and the comfort He brings with Him is a fresh Word to all...for this comfort is full of His Peace...and full of His Joy.
 Even the natural surroundings will "pick-up the scent", the mountains and the hills will burst into a type of song! The very trees around you and scattered throughout the fields and into the depths of the forests will shake their branches...like they are "clapping their hands!"

 As you follow the trail that leads to the "Homeland", thistles that once terrorized the land are gone....and are replaced by the giant Cypress trees and the beautiful Myrtle.
 Thorn bushes, once a plague to all who passed by them...are also gone. Now, the stately pine trees..reaching high into the skies...to give honor and praise...to our Captain!
 All of natural creation is but a witness..an evidence itself...your God is alive!...and He has brought His love...and His power...to each one of us."

There is a Time...for Everything

"There is an appointed time...for everything,
        A time for every affair to follow its course,
            And find its completion...under the heavens."

 Our lives seem to reflect the seasons of nature. At times our lives are warm and sunny, while other times bring in strong winter winds and a feeling of emptiness. We have those "magical moments" and we have "crosses" we contend with. With the numerous choices we make in our daily lives, there are results or sometimes consequences that come with those choices. If we choose to give comfort to one who is desperate, compassion has a way of arriving at our own "doorstep", giving us strength in our time of need. If we choose to ignore others, life has a way of ignoring us.
 In the Sacred Scriptures, Solomon makes some interesting remarks in regards to how life works, expanding on this subject  in Ecclesiastes chapter 3.
 Here in the beginning verses of the chapter Solomon seems to offer a purpose in life for each situation we may encounter. An example of that would be: " Today we may weep on the loss of a loved one, yet tomorrow rejoice over the joy of a new birth."  
 Solomon gives to us a solemn reminder we don't control Father Time, but we can control how we use our own time. For some of us... it is a time to "let go of the old...and step into the new."

 And yet in the midst of thinking over what our lives are all about...you know the "why am I here?" stuff and "what purpose do I serve?", other things seem to "make some noise".
 We live in a day of automation..."I want it and I want it now" generation.
 It's getting a little crazy...at least to me. For example, I have an application available on my cell phone called "Textwalk". Since texting is so popular and everyone is doin' it, it seems people are now running into to things while walking and texting. So, "Textwalk" solves all that. It works like a camera and allows you to see where you are walking and what objects or people might be in your path...while you are texting.  Personally, I wouldn't benefit from such a program simply because multi-tasking isn't one of my "power points" (lol).
 The day of automation doesn't recognize "seasons in our lives". Automation declares: " we do all things...and we do all things...now!"

 Even in the "Christian world", you sometimes hear a similar "chant". Using the Sacred Scripture, an announcement is heard: " I call those things that be not as though they already were", from Romans 4:17. Now, first I would like to make it abundantly clear there are some who have stood by faith on this verse of Scripture and some wonderful things have happened in their lives...I'm not referring to those situations.
 Rather, it is listening to those who simply take this verse of Scripture and turn it into a formula...confess it, repeat it, believe it...and "presto"...it is "yours". I don't totally disagree with the concept, but the presentation is often shallow and leaves many clinging to false hopes and some have completely turned away from the faith...because "calling those things that be not as though they already were"....never came.
Why?

 I think faith certainly does include "calling those things that be not as though they already were", yet, I do think there is a season appointed for all things to take place in our lives.
 I  personally think that "when you know something is right...and your inner faith is telling you to believe in that"...then we attained 1/2 of the equation.
 The other 1/2?...which I have found to be equally important: "it is only right when we do it or it arrives in our lives...at the right time."
So, what do we do?

Preparation. That's a "bad word" in our day of automation. It demands work, patience, and a "season of building". For a Christian, I simply thinks it means spending time...with Him.
 The "Jewel of a Christian" is not just seeing things happen in our lives...those things are all well and good, and certainly have benefits to our daily lives. Yet, "one statement wonders" cannot replace what being a Christian is all about....getting to know Him...more and more.
 Setting aside time, regardless of what season in life we may be in...is essential to allowing God have purpose in our lives. Praying, meditating, and keeping in mind the needs of others...coupled with patience and trust...can bring life into our lives...and things that were not even in existence...begin to appear....
 Then, you can declare from your own heart: "This is...Our Time!"

                           A Gleaning from Ecclesiastes 3:1-8

 " There is an appointed time for everything,
A time for every affair under the heavens.
A time where everything has its own season.
There is a right time for birth,
And yet another time which brings with it Death.
There is a right time to plant,
And yet another time to bring harvest
To the things that were planted.

There are times necessary to declare war...and a time to kill
While another time brings the "warm winds of healing."
There are times that things once built in honor and glory,
Now demands a time to tear down,
Yet another time declares it is the season to make new and build.
There is a right time to weep, to mourn, and to cry,
And yet there is a time appointed to laugh and dance...once more.

There is a time designated to extend our love and "cheer on" those around us,
And there are times we are to remain quiet.
There is a time to embrace life...and others as well
And other times we simply refrain.
There is a time life demands we search and look at details,
And yet another time to bring your search to a close,
And allow the season of rest to arrive...and enjoy the serenity of her strength.

There are times we must hold on...and cling to life with all our strength
And there is a season designated...to simply "let go".
There is a time to "rip out" what has been sewn,
And yet another time to sew what has been "ripped out."
There is a time to simply listen,
And yet another time to speak...from the softness of the heart,
Or the firmness of our disciplines in life.

There is a time to emanate our emotions and passions of life,
And another time to not allow our emotions dictate our decisions in life.
Finally, there is a time to declare War,
And yet another time to promote....Peace.

Every Fear has no Place...at the Sound of His Great Name...part 2

It has been said: "Fear is able to capture and actually paralyze a person's mind."

 This one man tells of how one night a large mirror in their home fell off the wall and came to the floor with a thunderous crash, shattering the mirror itself and breaking a piece of furniture below it. For the next 6 months the man would wake in his sleep, sweating and in fear that something else might drop from his bedroom wall or ceiling and kill him while he slept.

 Fear can also take on a positive effect. There is the story of the man walking through the cemetery late at night and accidently fell into an open grave that had been prepared for a burial the next day.
 He desperately did all he could to climb out of the open grave, but was unable to get the leverage he needed. Finally, after numerous attempts, he simply wore out and decided to sleep until morning and wait until someone would arrive to help him.
 While this man slept, another man during the night had the same idea, took a shortcut through the cemetery and also came upon the open grave which he did not see...and fell in. He was already tired and simply crawled over to a corner and went to sleep.
 The first man who had fell in the grave had awoke about a 1/2 hour before dawn, and decided to give it some more tries to climb out of the grave, and began jumping up and down in an effort to get a hold of something that he might pull himself up and out of the grave.
 The second man, now keenly aware there was someone else in the open gravesite with him, watched as the first man made numerous but vain attempts. Finally, the 2nd man said to the 1st man (who also was not aware someone else in the grave with him) in a rather "sleepy deep voice": "You will not be able to get out of here that way."
 But...he did!

Fear does have the capability of increasing your adrenaline...and it has the power to tie your stomach up in "knots". The age old equation: Fear + Failure = Anxiety, seems to be alive and well today.
 The word "fear" in the Greek comes from the word "phobos". Fear then can be categorized as a phobia, which in the english definition means: to have an anxiety disorder that is accompanied by a persistent fear (often a person, and object, or a situation).
 There is great resources to the "world of fear and it's origins", but 3 of the most basic types of fear seem to be:
1) Specific phobia: a fear of spiders, snakes, or water for example.
2) Agoraphobia: fear of leaving home or familiar scenes.
3) Social phobia: fear of being with others...in a variety of scenarios.

 Personally, I think our own Christian "religion" has made a mess for people that honestly are wanting to be freed from their fears.
 Fear has caused our view in life to get blurry at times...between fact and fantasy. We hear of vampires, werewolves, zombies...and then we wonder if there are "aliens among us". Then, our Christian history and reputation doesn't seem to help matters by burning witches at the stake, or being so merciless and brutal like some of our "Holy Crusades." Even today if we run into others whose lifestyles do not meet our approval (and of course we are raised on the premise: I read the King James and I love my country"), then it is deemed necessary to do whatever means we have to to eliminate such an opposing force.
 My personal "pet pieve" in our daily practice to live for Him, are the ones that condemn those who "smoke, drink, or chew; or go with girls that do" train of thought. Some of those "pointing out these particular sins" are looking at you square in the eyes...all 400 lbs. of them while "pounding down a brownie". Really? And consuming 3-4 lbs. of sugar daily is ok?
And yet...fear is a major contributor to our "pointing fingers at others".
 Christ Jesus seems to be very aware of man's fear...on any level. Depending on your Bible version of choice, Jesus seems to make a similar opening remark to His friends with this conotation between 100 to 125 times... before His Resurrection. The conotaton I  refer to is: "Fear not", or "Do not be afraid". Equally interesting is after His Great Resurrection...His opening remarks often started with these words: "My Peace I leave with you..."

 I have read where our faith in Him will cancel out our fear, and I am sure there is an element of truth in that...including Scripture to confirm it.
 As for me, 1 John 4:17-18 is clear on what drives fear (of any kind) from our lives.
 I John is one of those letters in the Sacred Scriptures that actually does not state who wrote it. Tradition has given the credit to one of "The Originals", the Apostle John, and he wrote this letter to encourage those who have embraced Him...that being the Lord Jesus Christ!
( Hey, that would be cool!! Instead of asking others if they "are saved", how about..."Have you embraced Him?")...well, it was just an idea.
 Anyway...here is a Gleaning of 1 John 4:17-18

 " As we embrace His love for us, it allows our love to grow and find harmony in Him. By learning to do this, fear..like in the Day of Judgment...will not be in our presence when He arrives.
 His love does not include fear...in fact, if He finds fear in us...He throws it out...with force! We cannot have 2 masters living in our hearts: 1) the love of His Presence and 2) the fear of being rejected by Him. In fact, when we initially embrace Him...He banishes fear from ever entering our hearts again.
 Fear is a crippler...and when we find ourselves overwhelmed by the fears of this life...or the fear of death...or the fear of the "Ultimate Rejection", being rejected by Him; then we need to open our hearts to Him a little more, and embrace even more of His love for us!"

"Every fear...has no place...at the sound...of His Great Name"

"Every Fear...Has No Place...at the Sound of His Great Name"

As I continue to do a little research from the song: "At the Sound of His Great Name", this phrase is a "biggy". It goes: "Every fear...has no place...at the Sound of His Great Name".

 Fear...probably in my humble opinion the most dominant weapon we encounter in life...that is violently against us at times.
 Fear can cause us to be mere instruments of another Power, for as the saying goes: "When we are afraid, we obey."
 There was a story of a dictator one time, who at his deathbed had chosen two individuals to become heirs to his throne. His requirement was: to take a small bird out of a cage and hold it in their hand freely for 5 minutes. Which ever the the two that were chosen could do this feat, he would be the new dictator to the throne.
 So, the first "chosen one" removed the small bird from the throne and placed it in his hand. Unfortunately, he was gripping the bird too tight, and almost suffocated it. The second he let lose of his tight grip, the bird flew off.
 The second individual, upon seeing this, placed the small bird gently in his hand, and tried to find that balance where he had the bird tight in his hand, but not overly so as to harm the bird in any way. Yet, as soon as he loosened any grip on the bird, the bird flew off as well.
 The dictator, outraged at their "incompetence", said to them: " There is only one way to have this bird remain in your hand freely. Bring me the bird!"
 When the dictator had out the bird in his hand, he gripped it and began plucking all its feathers...until the bird had no feathers remaining on its small body.
 The dictator then opened his hand and there was the little bird...terrified and shivering...but..it remained in the dictator's hand after it had been completely opened for the five minute period.. The little bird's warmth could only come from...the dictator's hand.

FEAR

From a Christian perspective, fear is a major weapon the enemy has found much success. Fear does not simply leave because we ignore it, suppress it, deny it, or simply act like it doesn't exist. Fear is able to walk right in our lives and take away our freedom, steals our daily joys, prevents us from reaching our potential, and can hold the "real you" from ever coming out in "the open".
 Yet, it is out of fear we do almost everything. (hmmm, is that deep or what! lol).

Fear is often times about receiving the "No's" in life. No...don't do that...you will be judged! No...don't do that...you will be rejected! No...don't do that...you will be abandoned! No... don't do that...it doesn't matter if its your heart's desire!
 And then, if you venture out and "jump those hurdles"...there is more! "You will be a total disappointment!" "I told you it was too overwhelming!" "I disapprove of what you are doing!" "Now look at what you have done...you have screwed your life all up!" "Don't...it's too difficult." "You don't even have a "clue" what you are doing." "Stay where you are comfortable!".....and the biggest one of all: "I AM SCARED!"

 So, what is this song saying: "Every fear has no place...at the Sound of His Great Name"

Wow, this fear thing is going to have at least a "part 2".......

"I gave my enemies a sword...and they ran me through."

On August 8th, 1974 a grave announcement was made, one that was never heard before in American history, the President of the United States was resigning from his office...

 Impeachment proceedings had been already underway, President Richard Millhouse Nixon was being linked to a scandal, one that became known as "The Watergate Scandal."
 On June17th, 1972, several burglars were arrested in the office of the Democratic National Committee, located in the " Watergate Building" in Washington D.C.
 The burglars were caught attempting to wiretap phones and steal classified secret documents.
President Nixon was never prosecuted or directly connected to that evening but it was further unveiled "hush money" had been raised for the burglars in an attempt to stop the FBI from investigating the crime. There was also evidence of much paper shredding and general noncooperation from Nixon staff members.
 In August of 1974 Nixon's role in the Watergate Scandal came to light, and the result of the investigation brought the President to his decision to resign. Gerald Ford, the vice-president of the United States, took the office of President at noon on August 9th, 1974.
 President Ford took immediate action on Nixon's behalf and pardoned Nixon for all the crimes "he committed or may have committed".
 The Watergate Scandal had a deep impact on Americans, particularly in regards to their loyalties and trusts in general to the whole political landscape of America. Criticism took on a new zeal with almost anyone venturing to run in the political forum.

 President Nixon had been one of the most experienced politicians in the presidential office. He had been a congressman, a U.S senator, and a vice president.
 He had been through the"hippie movement", the Chilean overthrow in South America, and many other social issues in the U.S. such as the "Black Panther" movement.
 President Nixon was known for his "paranoia", kept lists of those he thought were his enemies. Some thought Nixon's view of the presidency was a vehicle for punishing his enemies and promoting his friends.
 In regards to his comments on the Watergate Scandal, he replied:" I gave my enemies a sword...and they ran me through."

"Fear is the response of the human heart...when it's one thing is threatened."
                                                                                                   St. Augustine

 "Paranoia is the delusion that your enemies are organized and poised...to get you."
                                                                                                   Shane Masterson        

All Condemned...Feel No Shame...At the Sound of Your Great Name

In 2008, Natalie Grant came out with a Christian album entitled: Love Revolution. The song that really gripped me was: "At the Sound of His Great Name". That is where I am at today.
 This song was actually written by Krissy Nordhoff and Michael Neale, and the song was for their church in Franklin, Tennessee at the People's Church... but the song couldn't be contained to one local church...it was just too good!
 Krissy Nordhoff is the key to this song...it was birthed from her own heart. Krissy had been diagnosed with Lyme's disease and it was in advanced stages...when as she puts it: "The Lord completely healed her". With the help of Michael Neale, the song was composed...and the rest is pretty much history.

 Natalie Grant who recorded this, makes some interesting comments about this song. She shares how "we live in a world of trendy things and changing cultures...except for one thing...The Sound of His Great Name. Expressing through different methodologies the message of chains being broken and the true origin of freedom , the one Truth that has never changed...the Lord Jesus Christ."

 In this song, there are 7 references to the power of the Sound of His Great Name.
They are:
1. All condemned...feel no shame...at the sound of His Great Name
2. Every fear...has no place.............at the sound of His Great Name
3. The enemy, he as to leave............at the sound of His Great Name
4. All the weak, find their strength..at the sound of His Great Name
5. Hungry souls, receive Grace.......at the sound of His Great Name
6. The fatherless, they find their rest...at the sound of His Great Name
7. Sick are healed, and the dead are raised...at the sound of His Great Name

So, I will take on the "Magnificent 7"....one at a time.

 1."All Condemned...feel no shame...at the sound of His Great Name.

 The word condemned is described as : " one who is given a strong disapproval, a pronounced judgment, and declared unfit for any use." This word has both a French and Latin base and in its original form means: "to be given a very intense sentence."
 The word shame is interesting in this song because of the phrase "feel no shame". The word shame is described exactly as that: " a painful emotion induced by a strong sense of guilt, embarrassment, not being worthy or grateful, and feeling disgrace."

 When the Great name of Jesus sounds into your heart when you lay down your life and you allow Him in; the guilt, condemnation, and shame of  things in your life...are lifted. A person can find true meaning to living again...a joy in your heart, a fresh start, a faith that experiences the meaning of ...being born again.
 And when those feelings of shame and condemnation try to return to your heart or your thoughts...you have been given a "new sound" within you....the sound of His Great name.

 Going through life in shame and guilt is tough. Charles Dickens, the great English novelist of the mid-1800's wrote in his book "Great Expectations" : It is a most miserable thing...to be ashamed of his own home."

 Sooner or later all people will acknowledge the "Sound of His Great Name". In the book of Philippians, chapter 2, verses 5-11, it talks about His Name.
 Some Biblical scholars think these 6 verses were a hymn sung by the 1st century church.

   Gleaning from Philippians 2:5-11

 " When it comes to your relationships with one another, think along these lines and allow Christ Jesus to have His influence on your outlook as a Christian:
 Although He has always had an equal status with His own Father, that being God Himself, He did not think or cling to the advantages of that status at any cost. Instead, He did the opposite and gave up the privilege and stripped Himself of all His own rights, in order to become a servant...He became...one of us.
 It was an act of total humility that was executed by Christ Jesus and He followed this commitment to us by living a completely selfless life, obedient to death, and was put to death as a criminal...on a Roman cross.
 Because of His total obedience, God the Father has elevated Him with the highest honors, giving Him the name that is far beyond any other name, and all creation in the past-present-and future are to bow before His Beloved Son...Christ Jesus. This will include every knee found in heaven, on the earth, and under the earth. It will make no difference whether anyone was already dead and buried or whether they are alive today. Every nation and every tongue will directly, clearly, and openly declare to this confession:
 "JESUS CHRIST IS LORD...to the GLORY OF GOD THE FATHER" ...they will confirm the "sound of His Great Name."

Why do we have an August?

August is a month I simply have to tolerate. It has beauty and yet you know a "change is in the air".  The word August itself means great or magnificent...but I think that might be strechin' it a little. Yet I know August is necessary...and it is the one that causes me to hold on to summer while preparing for autumn. I know change is sometimes good...but I really will miss:

 Kids on the front lawn selling lemonade for 25 cents,
 Watermelons sitting in the garden just reaching maturity.
 How about the tall corn fields, or taking those last plunges into the lake
 Or running through the sprinklers.
 And the flower gardens...the sunflowers, Queen-Anne lace, and the golden rods,
 Lookin' good and enjoying the time of their lives.

 In some circles August has been designated as the month to practice "the art of hospitality." Suggestions are to be a little more sensitive toward others, do the "Random act of Kindness" thing with a little more emphasis, and perhaps smile and listen to others a little more intently even when you don't feel like it.

 Some Bible scholars think Jesus Himself was born in August, based in the Gospels where the shepherds were out on the hills "watching their flocks at night". When Christ came into the manger designated as December 25th...those shepherds would have been cold ( in the moutainous regions), so their livestock would have been likely in pens and stalls...besides, there would have been too many hungry  animals looking for food. Also, shepherds wouldn't send newborns "out" at night in the spring , yet by summer's end, the baby sheep could venture out.

August can be a hot month, almost like July is "keeping it hands tight around the neck" of August.
 And August is a month to get ready for the county fairs...popcorn, corn dogs, and cotton candy.


August is a month of mixed feelings: on one hand I begin to get a little restless in antcipation for fall, and yet a sorrow is emerging for knowing Summer is winding down.
 In fact, August is a kind of reflection to a sunset, so beautiful in its vast array of color...and yet knowing the cool of the evening is fast approaching...and night is close at hand.

I guess what I am trying to say in all this is...August is a kind of dying month in some ways...the peak of summer has passed and those cool autumn breezes ar just around the corner.
 I think August for me is a good reminder...I too am dying...dying to self and the lifestyle I want to live and have...and allow the True Son to bring His Life into and through me.

C.S. Lewis once wrote: ".....it is when I turn to Christ, when I give up myself to His personality, that I begin to have a real personality of my own."
 He also once wrote: " I gave in...and admitted God was God."

This kind of reminds of a quote by Oswald Chambers: "God's friendship begins when I realize...I'm living in poverty."

 Yea, August for me is one of those times of year I need to reflect...and prepare for some changes...but I do think Summer should at least be given a speeding ticket...or something...

Stuff You Might Like to Know...and maybe not!

The famous Oxford Dictionary, founded in England in 1884, carries the distinction of the most comprehensible single words of one language...in the entire world! That's what Guinness's World Records say anyway.
 Well, the editors of the 600,000 descriptions of words of the English language has updated their edition to include the following:
1. bling (n): expensive, ostentatious jewelry and/or clothing.
2. bromance (n): a close relationship between 2 men that is of a non-sexual nature.
3. chillax (v): to calm down and relax
4. crunk (adj.): very excited and full of energy
5. d'oh(n): a comment to describe or express a stupid action including oneself.
6. droolsworthy (adj.): extremely attractive or desirable
7. hater(n): a person who greatly dislikes a specified person, occasion, or thing.
8. illiterati (n): a person not informed or educated in a certain subject.
9. la-la land (n): a person who is off in a "dream world"; can also refer to Los Angeles.
10. muffin top (n): a visible roll of fat that is above the top of a woman's tight fitting, low waisted jeans.
11. muggle (n): a person who cannot carry a conversation in a particular environment.
12. screenager (n): a person in their teens or 20's that are addicted to computers and specifically the Internet.

Ok...now that you have received this valuable info...here is some more:

1. Barbie and Ken (dolls): They have real names! Barbie's full name is Barbara Millicent Roberts. Ken is simply: Ken Carson.
2. Captain Crunch (cereal): His name is Capt. Horatio Magellan Crunch.
3. Peppermint Patty in the Peanuts comic strip: her name is Patricia Reichardt.
4. The Wizard of Oz "takes the cake": His full name is: Oscar Zoroaster Phadrig Isaac Norman Henkel Emmanuel Ambrose Diggs.
5. Mr. Clean (the cleanser): his full name is Mr. Veritably Clean. His first name was voted in by a fan base in 1962.
6. In the game Monopoly, the officer on the card that takes you "directly to jail and you don't collect $200" is: Officer Edgar Mallory.
7. The Michelin Man: his name is Bibendum.
8. The Pillsbury Doughboy and family: Poppin' Fresh is the father, Poppy Fresh is his wife,...and their 2 children are named: Popper and Bun Bun.
9. The Lone Ranger: his name is John Reid.

I hope this will help you...get through your day! lol