WORDS

Yesterday, I discovered anew (for the hundredth time) how powerful words are. They can absolutely destroy a person's reputation when that person has done nothing wrong. Words can make a wonderful person seem "bad" to others when harsh words, hurtful words are spoken about them. There are many scriptures telling us to "watch" or "bridle" our tongues, but it is so hard to do. It is painful to watch others become the brundt of harmful words....it is joyous to watch as words encourage and build up our loved ones. Ahhh....the amazing power of words....we are the only things God created that can speak.....what will we do with the power of our words?

A careless word may kindle strife;

A cruel word may wreck a life.

A bitter word may hate instill;

A brutal word may smite and kill.

A gracious word may smooth the way;

A joyous word may light the way.

A timely word may lesson stress;

A loving word may heal and bless. Author Unknown

December Already!

Merry Christmas to all! It is already that time of year and I can't believe it. The year has flown by so fast. Last January, Katie and Mitch called to tell us that we needed to think up a good name to be called by our first grandchild....(excitement everywhere!)...and then time flew by and Jacey was born! Now she is almost four months old and we love her so much although distance separates us. Life really does fly by. Joe turned 51 and I turned 49 this year....Charlotte is in her third year of college and I remember her graduating from high school like it was yesterday. I must always remember to treasure every day and use it for God's glory because they fly by.....yes, "man's life's a vapor".