Planet Zion

Prayer

2011-11-28T10:31:00.001-05:00

Please god bless this day. Help me to face problems head on, not to procrastinate. To keep calm and never speak or act out in anger. I have been slipping..but you are constantly in my thoughts. Bless her so she can control and manage her body and mind..help us gorw together. Ensure a safe and happy environment for Elijah. I still wrestle with the same problems....but ihave not fallen. Alcohol and drugs are posions that can rot your soul, money is a stress that could make someone only want to forget about the world. My occupation has turned into torture rahter than enjoyable. Bless my family for coming when we need them.......in jesus name...amen

For she and I

2011-11-09T13:30:00.001-05:00

Please Lord,
Bless she and I. With lovingkindness. Help us enjoy the life you provide for us. Keep our hearts warm and full of life. Let us be free of our shortcomings. Please do not allow our enemies, outside and within to triumph over us. Accept my humility and love. Instruct us as to how to nurture life and love. Let us live in abundance. Be the shepherd for our flock. In Jesus name,
Amen.

My lists for life.

2011-11-08T13:01:00.001-05:00

1. Quit smoking. 2. Eat better. 3. Lose 10 lbs. 4. Less alcohol. 5. Expand my knowledge through reading. 6. Be a good husband and dad. 6. Enjoy life as it is. 7. Regard troubles and life's lowpoints as temporary and as spiritual exercise. 8. Gain more wisdom. 9. Have less regrets. 10. Express myself 11. Feel good. 12. Manage money better. 13. Be a role model

Someone to lean on

2011-11-08T12:27:00.001-05:00

Dear Lord, I need support. One who can not just listen but one who can hear. One who will speak not just talk. One who doesn't just see but has sight. One who understands not just feels. One who be be supportive not critical. One who can tell me I'm backsliding not berate me. One who has no conditions on me. One that does not judge, one who has strenght, one who has wisdom.
In Jesus name, Amen.

Moments

2011-10-19T00:47:00.001-04:00

Scene ,father takes 2 yr old son in shower to save time and be more efficient killing two birds with one stone.
Scene 1:
Son: dadday what are those?
Dad: those are balls
Son: bubba's balls ?
Dad: no, those are daddys balls.
Son: do bubba got balls?
Dad: yes those r bubbas balls
Son: mommy got balls?
Dad: no mommy doesn't have balls only boyz have balls
Son: haha
Dad: not doin this shower thing ever again......

Today.

2011-10-17T10:42:00.001-04:00

Dear Lord, Our Father,
Accept my sacrfices and allow me to walk in calmness and peace. Free me from the shackles of myself and my weaknesses. Light my path and help me to walk erect and upright. Do not allow me to stray any further. All of my troubles and strife I lay upon your feet. Let me live with humility, peace, calmness, free from worry and love.
Amen

2011-10-17T10:07:00.001-04:00

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2011-10-17T09:59:00.003-04:00

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2011-10-04T11:37:00.001-04:00

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2011-09-26T09:45:00.001-04:00

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2011-09-23T09:26:00.001-04:00

Today I learned mobile blogging..lol

Prayer

2011-09-17T18:51:00.000-04:00

The LORD is my shepherd, I lack nothing.

He makes me lie down in green pastures,

he leads me beside quiet waters,

he refreshes my soul.

He guides me along the right paths

for his name’s sake.

Even though I walk

through the darkest valley,

I will fear no evil,

for you are with me;

your rod and your staff,

they comfort me.

You prepare a table before me

in the presence of my enemies.

You anoint my head with oil;

my cup overflows.

Surely your goodness and love will follow me

all the days of my life,

and I will dwell in the house of the LORD

forever.

(psalm 23)

Dear LORD,

Bless Kathy with the will to be, live and change.

Keep her from harm.

Help her to regain love, trust and confidence.

Help her to be heard and understood.

Ensure her safety and the safety of her emotions.

Please allow her the full enjoymeny of life.

Let her be seen as for what she is, let no good go unnoticed.

Let her mistakes be like whispers in the wind.

Allow her to shine through the clouds on the gloomiest of days.

Make her life full of comfort and abundance.

In Jesus name;

AMEN

By KC Jackson

Hope for Troubled Christian Marriages - 5 Tips for Stability and Sanity

2011-09-17T18:34:00.000-04:00

Being a Christian does not insulate your marriage from times of trouble. Like every other person walking around and breathing, Christian relationships can be ransacked with the pain of infidelity, the cold distance resulting from bitterness, and the loneliness of conflict. Here are 5 things you can do to bring a sense of stability and sanity to a troubled Christian marriage:

1. Recognize there is a problem
As a counselor, I am always amazed at the energy that is spent in denying the existence of a troubled relationship. Spouses - male and female - will go to great lengths to avoid dealing with a problem. Problems will be denied, overlooked, or even ignored in hopes that they will somehow resolve themselves. Sadly, it does not happen, and couples find their relationship in dire circumstances.
Couple Tip: Admit there is a problem. You do not necessarily have to agree on the cause of the problem. Simply agreeing a problem exists can cause a change in attitude.

2. "Quick to hear, slow to speak, and slow to anger."
James 1:19 reminds us to "Post this at all the intersections, dear friends: Lead with your ears, follow up with your tongue, and let anger straggle along in the rear." (The Message). Quick tempers and a lack of listening to one another is a sure fire way to get into an argument. James emphasizes the significance of listening over talking.
Couple Tip: Consider whether you are truly listening to your spouse's need or are you interrupting so that you do not have to take any blame?

3. Do not make a major life changing decisions regarding divorce
When I counsel couples I am always interested in whether one spouse has already spoken to a divorce attorney. This often tells me the depth of their emotional pain. Hasty decisions can have permanent consequences. Divorce can always take place. Reconciliation after divorce requires more work.
Couple Tip: If you feel like talking to a divorce attorney then consider talking to a trusted friend about your motives. Are you making your decision based on emotion?
If you do talk to an attorney, do not make any final decision for 60 - 90 days. Emotions can be very volatile even for 30 days.

4. Support, support, support
Assuming you both desire to save your marriage, I encourage you to find some likeminded fellow Christians that can walk with you during this time. Many churches have marriage mentor programs, or a pastor to will meet with you. Some of the best advice we received was even from older couples that my husband and I sought out to talk with.
Couple Tip: Dare to ask for help. It is much easier to isolate than to reach out. No one can help you if you do not ask for it.

5. Pray blessings for your spouse
Too often when we are in the midst of crisis, our prayers remain self focused. If I shift my focus from wanting justification for my behavior to blessings for my spouse then my attitude will become more peaceful. Therefore, I am more amiable and approachable.
Couple Tip: Write down 15 things you are grateful for your spouse for, and share the list with them either verbally or in a card or email

6. Get some professional help.
Sometimes it is difficult to see the end of the tunnel when we are in the middle of a storm. It is important to get some professional help, especially if you feel like you are reaching a dead end or getting stuck in that same old patterns.
Couple Tip: Find a local counselor that can help you work through the issues of your marriage. Ask your pastor, or friends for a referral of a qualified counselor.
Being a Christian does not guarantee your relationships will be wrinkle free. However, God does promise to walk with us through these times, and provide respite when we need it. (Psalm 23) and provide hope for troubled marriages.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/696692

Pray big time for us...

2011-09-17T13:29:00.000-04:00

Family Life
Once we thought life eould be easier now that we are together. Thought troubles would be less. In reality we took on the problems of the people we love as well. Im not sure anyone reads this any longer, been I while since I wrote. I am currently away from home on a little "vacation". Need time to reorganize my thoughts and make sure I can be ready for the future. I pray all is well for anyone out there and pray that we are prayed for as well.

Jackson Family Updates.....

2010-10-26T01:03:00.000-04:00

Its looks like its that time. The U.S. Army is relocating me to another state. We will be mmoving before thanksgiving. Pray for us that all goes ok. We are not your average family. We love and hate each other though like every other family. Elijah turns 2 in November. Kala turns 20 in November. I turn 33 in January. I cant wait to get back to where we can go on road trips and see our families more often. Regardless how sick of them you get...you will always miss them.

“There is no love without forgiveness, and there is no forgiveness without love.” Bryan H. Mcgill

Danelle, Kathy Together after all these years.

2010-08-07T20:20:00.000-04:00

I almost cried. I spent a long time planning this. It finally happened. I dont know what happens next but I hope it will mean many more years of family.

Kathy and her sisters share a birthday cake!

2010-08-07T19:55:00.000-04:00

Lala, Elijah, Raven and Ramir

2010-08-07T19:50:00.000-04:00

Elijah gets to be with Lala and his cousins Raven and Ramir. They got along so good. They spent all day doing his hair. Look at it....lol.....

Going home July 2nd

2010-06-22T01:02:00.001-04:00

Me, wifey and baby will be home on the 2nd of July Woo Hoo!!!!!!!1 We will also be seeing both our families and we hope to have a great time!!!!!!
!

Spartacus, Blood and Sand. The best series I have ever seen.

2010-04-18T15:10:00.000-04:00

This is without a doubt the best show on T.V. It comes on the STARZ network. It is about Spartacus and his journeys through life. Starting as a warrior he was captured and sold to a master who owns a school of gladiators. From there the story unfolds as Spartacus becomes a champion and then more. The show is lush with the depiction of Roman debauchery. Sex, blood, drama it has everything.

for more info :www.starz.com/originals/spartacus

Easter!!!

2010-04-04T16:54:00.000-04:00

Mommy and Elijah playing on Easter.

A family is this. by Makenzee Ryan

2010-03-31T01:40:00.000-04:00

A Family is this..........

To be apart of a family like mine
is so divine
where love is shown
hurt is shared
our love for each other is never impaired

we talk
we laugh
we cry

but we are a family
and we do it all together
for as a family
we do it all as one

you hurt one
you hurt all
and as a family unit
we will all stand tall

for we are family
a family full of strength
a family full of love
a family no one can touch
that, is why I love my family so much.
Makenzee Ryan

from: http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/a-family-is-this/

Rainbow

2010-03-28T22:35:00.000-04:00

There will always be sunshine, rainbows and sweet breezes. Seek yours and resist those who wish to cheat you from the happy vibes of life. Misery loves company. Those who would see you falll are those you need to stay away from. The light of truth casts many many shadows across the hearts of men. Chin up, Knuckle up....Much love and GOD bless!!!!

Obama's new Health Care Plan.

2010-03-27T14:00:00.000-04:00

I don't know crap about politics but this looks like important information that needs to be known. Spread the news!!!!

Here are 10 things you need to know about how the new law may affect you:

1. Your Kids are Covered

Starting this year, if you have an adult child who cannot get health insurance from his or her employer and is to some degree dependent on you financially, your child can stay on your insurance policy until he or she is 26 years old. Currently, many insurance companies do not allow adult children to remain on their parents' plan once they reach 19 or leave school.

2. You Can't be Dropped

Starting this fall, your health insurance company will no longer be allowed to "drop" you (cancel your policy) if you get sick. In 2009, "rescission" was revealed to be a relatively common cost-cutting practice by several insurance companies. The practice proved to be common enough to spur several lawsuits; for example, in 2008 and 2009, California's largest insurers were made to pay out more than $19 million in fines for dropping policyholders who fell ill.

3. You Can't be Denied Insurance

Starting this year your child (or children) cannot be denied coverage simply because they have a pre-existing health condition. Health insurance companies will also be barred from denying adults applying for coverage if they have a pre-existing condition, but not until 2014.

4. You Can Spend What You Need to

Prior to the new law, health insurance companies set a maximum limit on the monetary amount of benefits that a policyholder could receive. This meant that those who developed expensive or long-lasting medical conditions could run out of coverage. Starting this year, companies will be barred from instituting caps on coverage.

5. You Don't Have to Wait

If you currently have pre-existing conditions that have prevented you from being able to qualify for health insurance for at least six months you will have coverage options before 2014. Starting this fall, you will be able to purchase insurance through a state-run "high-risk pool", which will cap your personal out-of-pocket expenses for healthcare. You will not be required to pay more than $5,950 of your own money for medical expenses; families will not have to pay any more than $11,900.

6. You Must be Insured

Under the new law starting in 2014, you will have to purchase health insurance or risk being fined. If your employer does not offer health insurance as a benefit or if you do not earn enough money to purchase a plan, you may get assistance from the government. The fines for not purchasing insurance will be levied according to a sliding scale based on income. Starting in 2014, the lowest fine would be $95 or 1% of a person's income (whichever is greater) and then increase to a high of $695 or 2.5% of an individual's taxable income by 2016. There will be a maximum cap on fines.

7. You'll Have More Options

Starting in 2014 (when you will be required by law to have health insurance), states will operate new insurance marketplaces - called "exchanges" - that will provide you with more options for buying an individual policy if you can't get, or afford, insurance from your workplace and you earn too much income to qualify for Medicaid. In addition, millions of low- and middle-income families (earning up to $88,200 annually) will be able to qualify for financial assistance from the federal government to purchase insurance through their state exchange.

8. Flexible Spending Accounts Will Become Less Flexible

Three years from now, flexible spending accounts (FSAs) will have lower contribution limits - meaning you won't be able to have as much money deducted from your paycheck pre-tax and deposited into an FSA for medical expenses as is currently allowed. The new maximum amount allowed will be $2,500. In addition, fewer expenses will qualify for FSA spending. For example, you will no longer be able to use your FSA to help defray the cost of over-the-counter drugs.

9. If You Earn More, You'll Pay More

Starting in 2018, if your combined family income exceeds $250,000 you are going to be taking less money home each pay period. That's because you will have more money deducted from your paycheck to go toward increased Medicare payroll taxes. In addition to higher payroll taxes you will also have to pay 3.8% tax on any unearned income, which is currently tax-exempt.

10. Medicare May Cover More or Less of Your Expenses

Starting this year, if Medicare is your primary form of health insurance you will no longer have to pay for preventive care such as an annual physical, screenings for treatable conditions or routine laboratory work. In addition, you will get a $250 check from the federal government to help pay for prescription drugs currently not covered as a result of the Medicare Part D "doughnut hole".

However, if you are a high-income individual or couple (making more than $85,000 individually or $170,000 jointly), your prescription drug subsidy will be reduced. In addition, if you are one of the more than 10 million people currently enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan you may be facing higher premiums because your insurance company's subsidy from the federal government is going to be dramatically reduced.

Conclusion

Over the next few months you will most likely receive information in the mail from your health insurance company about how the newly signed law will affect your coverage. Read the correspondence carefully and don't hesitate to ask questions about your policy; there may be new, more affordable options for you down the road

From: Yahoo Investopedia

After The Strom

2010-03-13T14:08:00.000-05:00

After the storm. everything is ok. Slightly better than before. Some people used this as their excuse to do what they wanna do. Some used this as their excuse to get in our business. Lying neighbors. Overreacting friends. Serious bullshit. Luckily my mother came to help.

DIFFICULTIES

2010-01-29T21:47:00.000-05:00

The Jackson family is experiencing technical difficulties.
I pray that it all works out for the best and in the interest of the family.
GOD bless all who support us and read this........

E.R.J. first Birthday!!!!

2009-11-25T21:34:00.000-05:00

Im 1 year old now!!!!!

E.R.J. on strings

2009-11-08T13:34:00.000-05:00

2009-11-02T21:29:00.000-05:00

Elijah's first Halloween!!!
The neighborhood was pretty quiet. Barely no one was outside. The little guy gots EXTRA candy though. He got a little tired so trick or treating only lasted about an hour!!!
Here he is a little lion cub.
Oh yeah, I love Lions!!!!

E.R.J. in bath

2009-10-29T06:04:00.000-04:00

The little guy in his bath outside. He LOVES the water.

At home with the family

2009-10-29T05:52:00.000-04:00

It is good to be home.
Kathy and the girls are happy and doing great in their lives. Elijah is happy and is learning more and more each day.
Everyday is a new experience for me as well as him. We thank GOD and all of the people who supported us at home and abroad. My family and friends. The neighbors with new hearts,
the missionaries who spend time studying the bible with Kathy and to the church she found in my absence. After all we been through It's just great that everything is OK. There is no problem to overwhelm us right now. In fact our only worries are what to do on the holidays.

"Reach up as far as you can and God will help you reach the rest of the way."
- Greg Hickman -
Much Love and GOD bless!!!!!!
K.C. Jackson

Awww....on the way home, And what I have been up to

2009-08-31T16:57:00.000-04:00

ME in Aug 09 compared to Feb 09!!!

Looks like the deployment is coming to and end with around 35 days left. These last days are going by so slow. I cannot wait to see my wife Kathy, the girls Kala and Allie and my son Elijah. I still haven't met Elijah yet. It will be awesome. Christmas should be pretty good. I am hoping to have a wonderful holiday season.
In my down time I have turned to the gym to stay occupied and motivated. I ended up getting addicted. I learned the correct way to train rather than just go with what every Tom and Joe does. I corrected years of bad advice and habits. I am much better now.
I have been constantly reading books. The book I am currently reading is "Zen and the art of motorcycle maintenance". It is a philosophical book comparing everyday life to Buddhist concepts.
The home front is being held down by my wife. We gave had our share of arguments but we are a good couple and a few arguments aren't going to ruin us. SHe is up to her neck in tasks and chores. She deserves a good vacation. I have one planned.
To everyone that offered their help and support, Thank you and GOD BLESS!!!!

"The greatest mistake you can make in life is to be continually fearing you will make one."
- Elbert Hubbard -

Happy Babyboy

2009-07-31T01:18:00.000-04:00

Look how happy he is looking!
I cannot wait to meet him.
His mommy and sisters are taking care of him now.
He does not know me yet.
I think we will have lots of fun though.
2 months left in the Sandbox.
71 days.
Times is going slower the more I miss home. I usually do not get home sick but this time I cannot help it.
Much love, GOD bless

"Your living is determined not so much by what life brings to you as by what you bring to life."
- John Homer Miller -

2009-07-09T17:16:00.000-04:00

Jackson Family Crest

2009-07-07T10:36:00.000-04:00

Nothing going here really. I cannot wait to get home. Its winding down here. At the moment it is not very exciting. It is pretty damn hot though. Hot and dusty.
I hope all is good for everyone back home!

Been dreamin....

2009-06-26T15:41:00.000-04:00

It's been a while and this deployment is winding down. I am starting to think more and more of home. More now than ever my thoughts are being invaded by images of the baby and Kathy and the girls. I usually try to think about them only at certain times to keep the torture to a minimum but, it has recently grew much more difficult.

Been Dreamin
About blue skies and picnics in the park,
A chatty wife and walks out after dark.
About a new baby boy with his eyes full of joy,
And of his first X-mas and shiny new toys.
Then of barbecues on Saturdays and daughter number one,
And daughter number two whose face always says "fun".
Lazy Sundays to take my breath away,
Salty beach fun and a bright sunny day.
Steamy nights in the sheets while no one walks the streets,
Driving around on my blue leather seats.
About where my heart is, that place, my home,
Where the Love is strong, where from I'll never roam.

"Here I sit between my brother the mountain and my sister the sea. We three are one in loneliness, and the love that binds us together is deep and strong and strange. "
Kahlil Gibran

Prayers in times of weariness

2009-06-08T05:47:00.000-04:00

Prayers in time of Weariness

Heavenly Father, I am overcome with weariness and fatigue both of body and of spirit. I have been working doubly hard for a long time, and I am beginning to feel the effects. Let me take this as a sign from myself that I must slow down, cut down on projects and eliminate superfluous details.
Help me not to wait till it is too late. Teach me how to continue to serve You with a less hectic schedule and a more sheltered life.
Amen

Lord,
I thank you that you carry us through when we can't walk anymore. I ask for your strength and encouragement to fill us with all hope and perseverance until we see your promises come to pass in our lives. We ask to see our Victory and Freedom! To live it and walk in it!
Father, many are so weary from the long battles. Please intervene for your children. Please come quickly to help us. Please, enable us, move us to stand up and let us have triumph over our enemies and over our circumstances, according to your will. Have Mercy to help us . Keep the spirit of Praise upon us. Carry the grief of the mourning ones. All Power, Honor , and Glory to You Jesus. We pray in Jesus Name
Amen

I put these here in case anyone wonders what I am thinking about. I put these here for Kathy and anyone else that may feel the same way. I notice no one really reads it much, but it helps me out sometimes. I did however find a cool website called "Epals online" where you can have a pen pal email you daily. There isn't nothing better than someone to talk to or whine to..(lol_ when you need to. I hope everyone at home is doing good. Cannot wait to get home. Till then
Much Love and GOD bless.
KC Jackson

"You cannot control what happens to you, but you can control your attitude toward what happens to you, and in that, you will be mastering change rather than allowing it to master you."
- Brian Tracy -

Hello, Its ELIJAH!!!!!!

2009-06-07T05:44:00.000-04:00

ELIJAH

Its been a while. Nothing new to report. All is work and heat here. Home is wifey kicking ass and taking names. I been dreaming aobut the baby lately. I haven't really met him. I am positive we will have some serious fun though. Kathy will have to pry the baby from my hands. Well, I say that now, it night be pretty frustrating in real life...lol We will see.
We are on the down hill stretch to home. I am not going to complain about how it is here. But, you can beleive there is much to complain about. I hope all is good at home! eveyrone is on my prayers.

Much Love, GOD bless

"Three grand essentials to happiness in this life are something to do, something to love and something to hope for."
- Joseph Addison -

Always, We pull through.

2009-05-20T13:29:00.000-04:00

I am sorry it has been awhile since I have written anything. It seems that the page is just for mo now though, only kidding.
Kathy is at home doing her thing taking care of Elijah and being strong. After all we have been through, sometimes it still amazes me how strong she can actually be. She is kind of like a lioness with her cubs.
We have argued, we have cried. We still pull it together. We have been through tough times, good times, bad times and times that slipped on by where sunrises and sunsets seemed to melt together into one long day. We always pull through.
We usually do not argue though. Usually times are OK minus the small gripes about household chores. When I was home I wanted nothing more than to be at home with her on the couch next to me and us doing nothing. At other times though, I wanted MUCH more.
It is stifling hot here. It is well into the hundreds in terms of temperature. Been busier and in a worse mood due to the heat. Nothing but sand heat and bugs here. Concentrating on my job and my own well being. My main 2 priorities. Each priority has sub-priorities of its own. Under the priority of "Job" I must focus on the well being of my soldiers and the accomplishment of my missions. Under the priority of "My Own Well Being" I must focus on my fitness, technical and tactical knowledge, my health and hygiene. So, as you can guess I am pretty busy.
I have been spending my down time reading books. I put a list on the lower left of the blog of all the books I have read here. I have forgotten a few but, I put my favorites ones up. I also spend a lot of time working out. Soon I will be posting before and after pics so you can see what I have done. I am already down 35lbs and 4 inches.
Thank all of you who sent in care packages. They are greatly appreciated. We have everything we need for a while. In fact I might not need much more considering I should be home by October.

Until next time Much love and GOD Bless!!!!

"Happiness depends on what you can give. Not what you can get."
- Mahatma Gandhi -

MAYBE

2009-05-09T14:01:00.001-04:00

Maybe all the reflection and change was a waste of my time. Maybe things are just they way they are. Maybe sometimes people just DECIDE to be stubborn and stay that way. Maybe some people just simply cannot do what you think they can do. Maybe comparing people to other people in your life, like to your family only highlights what you see as flaws or weaknesses in other people. Maybe some people's advice was just given to satisfy their own ego's. Maybe some people talk big to seem big. Walking and talking are not the same thing. Maybe there is no need to think of the future. Maybe you have made a big mistake? Maybe you clash because of natural differences that were hidden until now. Maybe you were never really looked at for what you can do. Maybe you were never respected or taken seriously. Maybe your sacrifices mean little. Maybe their dreams and desires were lies or just talk. Maybe goals are foolish. Maybe it is not all good..
Or maybe I am just overreacting!!!!!

One- sided Struggle.

2009-05-09T14:01:00.000-04:00

The Wounded Heart

2009-05-08T13:06:00.000-04:00

The Wounded Heart

Definition:

A wounded heart occurs when someone or something brings hurt to your emotions. "The words of a talebearer are as wounds, and they go down into the innermost parts of the belly" (Proverbs 26:22).

SOURCES OF HURTS:

Result of offense brought to us from others.

(People say and do things to hurt us) Proverbs 18:8.

Result from our own sinful behavior. Psalms 25:18, Proverbs 17:19, II Samuel 24:10.
Result from a calamity where one is overcome by the experience. Job 3:25-26.
Result of the sins of the forefathers. Exodus 34:6-7.
Result from drug and alcohol use. Proverbs 23:29-35.
Result from occult involvement. Leviticus 20:6.

Hurts Never Just Go Away!

Hurts never just go away! Time will not bring complete healing to them. Whenever you remember the experience, you feel the hurt. Some people will even block out their memory so that they won't have to face feeling the hurts, but they are still there.

SOME SYMPTOMS:

Physical Proverbs 17:22

Nerve disorders
Allergies
Stomach problems
Heart aches
Insomnia

Mental Proverbs 18:14

Depression
Fits of anger and rage
Confusion
Various fears
Shyness
Dominance

Spiritual Matthew 18:34

Nightmares
Hearing voices
Seeing unusual things
Lack of control of self

The Ways People Respond

Some people respond by backing away from the situation to allow time for healing. They often turn inward and brood over their hurts. The hurts become like a big sore risen just waiting for someone to prick it with a sharp word, then out comes all the corruption of anger, bitterness, hate, revenge, and fear. The rejection they then receive brings more hurts.

Other people respond by immediately striking back trying to balance their hurt with anger and revenge or by trying to protect themselves from further hurt to allow time for healing. However, scar tissue (hardness of heart) soon appears. As they enter into relationships, they are rejected for their hardness and receive more hurts. Please understand that one only receives healing through the intervention of God.

God's Provision

God cares about your broken heart. Psalms 34:18, 51:17.
God healed David's heart and He will also heal yours. Psalm 147:3, Hebrews 13:8.
Jesus was sent to heal the broken hearted. Luke 4:18.
Jesus, Himself, suffered all the hurts that one could suffer. Isaiah 53:1-12, John 1:11, Luke 22:57, 23:35-37, Matthew 27:46.
Through the suffering of Jesus, God has provided the healing for you hurts. Isaiah 53:5.
It is God's desire to heal your hurts. I Peter 5:7.
God must have control of your whole heart before He can heal it. Jeremiah 29:13, Revelation 3:20

Note: God will only change what he has control over.

Steps Of Preparation

You must give your heart to Jesus letting Him become your Lord. (Lord = ruler) Romans 10:9, Philippians 2:9-10.
If you have offended someone else, then you must confess your offense and ask them to forgive you. Matthew 5:23-24, I Peter 3:16.
You must forgive (release) the person who has hurt you. Matthew 6:12, 14-15.
You must put their judgment into God's hands and then ask God to forgive them for their offense toward you. Luke 23:24, Acts 7:60.
You must yield your rights to God (possessions, respect, family, expectations). Matthew 19:21, I Peter 5:5-6, Luke 18:20, Mark 8:34-37, Psalm 119:165.

WARNING: A wounded heart that doesn't receive healing is an open door for evil spirits. Ephesians 4:26-27, I Peter 5:8, Genesis 4:4-7, Matthew 18:21-35.

How To Receive Healing

Make a list of your hurts.
Begin with the greatest first.
Ask God go cleanse your heart of all wrong attitudes (anger, bitterness, lust, unforgiveness, hate, revenge). Isaiah 1:18, 51:10, I John 1:9.
Picture your experience of being hurt in your mind.
Now picture Jesus suffering the same hurt for you and overcoming it by his own death and resurrection. I Peter 2:24.
Next picture in your mind the resurrected Jesus offering healing to you. Luke 4:18-19.
In faith ASK God to heal your heart in the name of Jesus. Ezekiel 36:26, John 16:23.

NOTE: You should ask the Holy Spirit to reveal other hurts in your life that they may also be healed. Psalm 139:23-24. "way of pain".

Your Ministry Of Healing

As God heals your hurts, He will also give you a tender heart that will be sensitive to the hurts of others. Ezekiel 36:26, II Corinthians 5:18, Mark 5:19.
Remember that God can change that which was meant for evil into good. Genesis 50:20, Deuteronomy 23:5, Romans 8:28, I Peter 5:8-10, II Corinthians 1:6.
ASK God to give and fill you with His Spirit, His love, and His grace that you may share the healing that you have received with others that they may be healed. Luke 11:1-13, Ephesians 3:17-20, Hebrews 4:16, John 7:37-38.
Claim Luke 4:18-19 for yourself.
Share the content of this article with a hurting friend. Matthew 10:8.

The wounded Heart <----- Click for original post

Steps to Emotional Healing, (Good read)

2009-05-08T12:50:00.000-04:00

Steps To Receive
Emotional Healing
This article was authored by Basil Frasure and copyrighted © 1994 by Vinyard Ink Press

The first step is to ACKNOWLEDGE the need for healing. For us to receive the healing of emotional wounds, we must first acknowledge that we are hurting (Matthew 9:10-13, Revelation 3:17). Many of us have lied to ourselves as well as to others. We have said, "I'm really O.K." or "It really doesn't matter that much."

Sometimes, the wound is so painful that we develop a case of amnesia. We may not be able to recall voluntarily the event or that time in our life. In such a case, we may need the aid of a compassionate counselor to guide us gently in facing our hurts.

The second step is to LOCATE the cause of the pain. In the physical realm, we may have a pain in our legs, but the cause may be a pinched nerve in the spine. To operate on the legs would be the wrong procedure. A youth may have severe problems getting along with his peers at school, when the real source of the pain is from an abusive stepparent at home. A wife may feel enormous pain every time her husband disciplines one of the children. However, the pain she feels may originate from her own emotional wounds as a child.

We may unconsciously associate one hurt with another. Furthermore, time itself, does not heal hurts. Only God does! Therefore, with each new conflict, we pick up additional baggage. It is therefore important that we locate and separate each painful experience. This is the work of the Holy Spirit (Psalm 139:23-24).

The third step is to CLEANSE the wound. If you received a deep wound in your hand and you left the wound open, it would sooner or later get contaminated and infected. The same is true in the emotional area. Emotional hurts are an open wound for unforgiveness, anger, bitterness, depression, and anxiety to enter. The Word implies that we may "give place to the devil" when we are angry longer than one day (Ephesians 4:26-31). Therefore, these critters may be more than just harmful emotions, they may also be evil spirits (Matthew 18:34).

For cleansing to occur, (1) we must forgive those who have offended us, (2) ask God for to forgive and cleanse us (I John 1:9) for our unforgiveness, (3) yield that area unto the Lord, (4) request that God restore our soul (Psalm 23:3) in the area yielded to the enemy, and (5) use the name of Jesus to drive out the enemy.

The fourth step is to RECEIVE HEALING of the hurt. God gives us two dinstinct pictures of healing in Scripture. One picture is that of God calling off the enemy (Deuteronomy. 7:15). This picture relates to the cleansing of the wound. The other picture is one of mending the net (Exodus 15:26).

After the physician cleanses the victim's wound, he sews it up so that it will not become contaminated again. Forgiveness opens the door to freedom, but forgiveness is not healing. Without our receiving healing, the wound again becomes contaminated. However, when God mends the wound, He also heals the wound.

We may receive healing by (1) understanding that Jesus suffered all kinds of emotional hurts (Isaiah 53:3) and that he became a hurt substitute (Isaiah 53:4) for us , and (2) believing that Jesus was sent to heal the broken hearted (Luke 4:18), and (3) asking in faith for that healing. When God heals the wound, we may recall the experience without being flooded by the pain.

The fifth step is to STRENGTHEN the weak area. Again, in the physical, the area around the wound may remain weak even after the healing occurs. This is also true of emotional wounds. The enemy will try to get us to focus our thoughts (II Corinthians 10:4-5) on the event that brought the hurt. If this occurs, we may mentally pick at the area until we have opened a new wound.

Therefore, it is critical that we strengthen that area by applying the Word of God. (1) We need to see that God had a purpose in allowing us to be wounded (Genesis. 50:20). (2) We need to see that God can work all things together for our good (Romans 8:28). (3) We need to come to rejoice in the Lord over the experience (Philippians. 4:4). (4) We need to develop and share our testimony with others (Revelation 12:11).

Emotional helaing<------click here for original post

I like this. I find that many of us need healing in this area. If you ask someone how though, what answer would you give? Do you have steps to healing emotional hurts? Have you already healed in yourself some past hurts?

Holding on to your past hurts can open the door to a host of negative emotions. From anger to hatred. It can change who you are. Change someone from an outgoing social butterfly to a recluse. In my life I am trying to be sure to take stock of my emotions and understand why I feel they way I do. In deep thought and meditation I have found that many of my negatives feelings were brought on by past experiences of hurt. I think the main and most important thing to remember if you have ever been hurt like this before is forgiveness. To let this person or situation or circumstance leave your heart for good. Holding on to your past hurt is like holding on to a flame after you realized how much it burned. Making a bigger wound that is open to infection.

KC Jackson

Elijah Robert Jackson

2009-05-02T10:24:00.000-04:00

Look at the guy now. He is nice and fat and looking healthy. Thank GOD for my lovely wife at home taking care of the business!!!! I love you all and miss you too!!!!!!
Sorry this is short today, I have limited time.

If you really read this.....

2009-04-25T15:52:00.001-04:00

A nice dusty day in Bayji, Iraq

2009-04-23T09:23:00.000-04:00

I noticed that no one seems to be looking at the website anymore. So, I just decided to keep on writing as it gives a great way to get away and clear my head.
I thought you might be a little curious about where I am located. I am located in the vicinity of Bayji in Iraq.

"Bayji is a city of about 200,000 inhabitants in northern Iraq some 130 miles north of Baghdad, on the main road to Mosul. It is a major industrial center best known for its oil refinery, the biggest in Iraq and has a large power plant. It also has important weapons and chemical plants." (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Baiji,_Iraq) <--Click on link to view web page.

Since I have been here I have seen some awesome dust storms. They make they sky bright red or orange. I do not know how it used to be here. Now it is pretty gross. The smells get me. No sewers. Barely no plumbing. It smells like a porta-potty. All of the time. I really do not have many positive things to say about this place. I only pray the locals appreciate all of this hard work and sacrifice.

I miss being home. The smell is usually the first thing I notice. Especially since I am going home to Hawaii. I miss Kathy, my girls and my new baby boy Elijah. I am constantly wondering what they are doing, what is happening. I only hope that they are at the least enjoying the time they have. I learned that the hard way. Now that I am here I miss even having an argument with them.

Well anyway, much love and GOD bless.
Keith C Jackson
SGT, U.S. Army

Easter

2009-04-13T07:56:00.000-04:00

"Remember the real reason we have Easter. Jesus rose from the dead today. What a miracle! Today let's remember this miracle as Husband and Wife. Let's rise from our spiritual sleep and remember the miracles that God has given us in our daily lives. Everyday is a miracle in itself, Just waking up to a new day is a miracle. Thank God for all he has done in our lives. God has truly given us so much Babe. Our wonderful son, our lives together, the girls and the simple things that many people take for granted. Food to eat, a car to drive, good health, a roof over our heads, clean water to drink, clothes on our backs. There is so much to be thankful for." Kathy.

This is Eli's first Easter. He has no idea what is going on though. He just got some colorful eggs. I am doing good here. Not too much time to write something cooler. So, this sis just an update. I of course will write more soon.
My wife sent me this message. True we have so much to be thankful for. I am hoping that there will be so much more....lol
Anyway, Much Love GOD bless....

Today

2009-04-08T11:52:00.000-04:00

It has been a while. I have been doing my best to do the right thing. Lately my thoughts have been slipping back to home and how much I miss it. It is too late to think about now. Today is the day.
That is the only thing that goes through my head. The hard part is figuring out today is the day for what?
I am doing good. I miss you all Much love GOD bless.

A Natural High

2009-04-03T16:29:00.000-04:00

A Natural High What else could bring you so much joy
As the arrival of your baby boy!
His snuggly charms now capture you;
He's in your thoughts in all you do. Nothing can fill you so full of glee
As bouncing your little boy on your knee.
His precious antics please mom and dad;
He's a bundle of blessings, this little lad! His boyish grin enchants everyone;
He's just what you wanted--your boy, your son.
A baby boy is a natural high,
So have lots of fun with your little guy. By Joanna Fuchs

Hello everyone. Its me Keith Clarence Jackson. Just letting you know that everything is going ok right now. Kathy is doing good. the baby is nice and healthy. Everyone wants to be a part of his life now. Even people that we never thought were our friends have changed. Maybe the baby just changed people for the better. Especially me. I see the world in a new light. New responsibilities and challenges are welcomed. I will do a good job. I got lots of inspiration and motivation. I think I have finally been touched.
Anyway, GOD BLESS

WTF is with Iraqi men?

2009-03-30T11:06:00.000-04:00

I will never understand Iraqi men. They are always holding hands and kissing each other.

And now from the White House. Give it a try its a good read. Check out the links at the bottom too.

2009-03-22T15:30:00.000-04:00

Responsibly Ending the War in Iraq

"The United States will pursue a new strategy to end the war in Iraq through a transition to full Iraqi responsibility…As we carry out this draw down, my highest priority will be the safety and security of our troops and civilians in Iraq. So we will proceed carefully, and I will consult closely with my military commanders on the ground and with the Iraqi government. There will surely be difficult periods and tactical adjustments. But our enemies should be left with no doubt: This plan gives our military the forces and flexibility they need to support our Iraqi partners, and to succeed."
--President Barack Obama
February 27, 2009 at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina

On his first day in office, President Obama ordered a comprehensive review of United States Iraq policy by military commanders on the ground, the Joint Chiefs, Secretary Gates, and his national security team. That review led to the President’s February 27, 2009 announcement at Camp Lejeune of a plan to responsibly end the war in Iraq. The three-part strategy he announced will make our country more secure by transitioning to Iraqi responsibility and by allowing the United States to focus on a broader set of national priorities. The Administration will pursue broad support for this plan and other major national security priorities by consulting closely with the Congress, on a bi-partisan basis, and by working closely with friends and allies.

Responsible Removal of Combat Brigades

Based on the recommendations of his military commanders and national security team, the President has chosen a time line that will remove all U.S. combat brigades from Iraq over the next 18 months. By August 31, 2010, our combat mission in Iraq will end and Iraqi Security Forces will have full responsibility for major combat missions.

After August 31, 2010, the mission of United States forces in Iraq will fundamentally change. Our forces will have three tasks: train, equip, and advise the Iraqi Security Forces; conduct targeted counter terrorism operations; and provide force protection for military and civilian personnel.

The President intends to keep our commitment under the Status of Forces Agreement to remove all of our troops from Iraq by the end of 2011.

Sustained Diplomacy

Iraq’s future is now its own responsibility and the long-term success of the Iraqi nation will depend upon decisions made by the Iraqi people. A strong political, diplomatic, and civilian effort on our part can advance progress and help lay a foundation for lasting peace and security. A new American Ambassador will be supported by the courageous and capable work of American civilian personnel, diplomats and aid workers.

We will work to support Iraqi national elections in 2010, help improve local government, serve as an honest broker for Iraqi leaders as they resolve difficult political issues, increase support for the resettlement of Iraqi refugees, and help strengthen Iraqi institutions and their capacity to protect rule of law, confront corruption, and deliver services.

Comprehensive Engagement Across the Region

The future of Iraq is inseparable from the future of the broader Middle East. It is time for Iraq to be a full partner in a regional dialogue and for Iraq’s neighbors to establish productive and normalized relations with Iraq. Going forward, the United States will pursue principled and sustained engagement with all nations in the region, including Iran and Syria. We have already begun to renew our diplomacy in the region, to refocus on: eliminating al Qaeda in Afghanistan and Pakistan; preventing Iran from developing a nuclear weapon; and actively seeking a lasting peace between Israel and the Arab world.

Finally, the President made a commitment to give our men and women in uniform the resources and clear direction they deserve and to build our civilian national security capacity so that we can use all elements of American power to achieve our objectives in the world.

link to original post: White House.gov

This is a link to the document describing the president economic recovery plan. (Warning, Long read!!!) Economic recovery

This is a link to a page where the presidents position on a variety of different topics are explained. The Agenda This is a pretty good read.

EXCUSES

2009-03-21T04:59:00.000-04:00

I do not have the liberty of failing

No one ever excused his way to success. ~Dave Del Dotto

Excuses are the tools with which persons with no purpose in view build for themselves great monuments of nothing. ~Steven Grayhm

And oftentimes excusing of a fault
Doth make the fault the worse by the excuse.
~William Shakespeare

Bad excuses are worse than none. ~Thomas Fuller

A lie is an excuse guarded. ~Jonathan Swift

Hold yourself responsible for a higher standard than anyone else expects of you. Never excuse yourself. ~Henry Ward Beecher

If you don't want to do something, one excuse is as good as another. ~Yiddish Proverb

We excuse our sloth under the pretext of difficulty. ~Marcus Fabius Quintilian

Whoever wants to be a judge of human nature should study people's excuses. ~Hebbel

We have more ability than will power, and it is often an excuse to ourselves that we imagine that things are impossible. ~François de la Rochefoucauld

Two wrongs don't make a right, but they make a good excuse. ~Thomas Szasz, The Second Sin

Difficulty is the excuse history never accepts. ~Edward R. Murrow

Pessimism is an excuse for not trying and a guarantee to a personal failure. ~Bill Clinton

We weave our excuses around events.
Thin, poor quality cloth of justification
Poor substitutes for the heavy tribal blankets
Once we wove to wrap our children.
~Phillip Pulfrey, "Cloth," Beyond Me, www.originals.net

Destiny: A tyrant's authority for crime and a fool's excuse for failure. ~Ambrose Bierce

Every vice has its excuse ready. ~Publilius Syrus

We are all manufacturers - some make good, others make trouble, and still others make excuses. ~Author Unknown

One of the most important tasks of a manager is to eliminate his people's excuses for failure. ~Robert Townsend

Your letter of excuses has arrived. I receive the letter but do not admit the excuses except in courtesy, as when a man treads on your toes and begs your pardon - the pardon is granted, but the joint aches, especially if there is a corn upon it. ~Lord Byron

Bad men excuse their faults; good men abandon them. ~Author Unknown

He that is good for making excuses is seldom good for anything else. ~Benjamin Franklin

It is wise to direct your anger towards problems - not people, to focus your energies on answers - not excuses. ~William Arthur Ward

Any excuse will serve a tyrant. ~Aesop

We have forty million reasons for failure, but not a single excuse. ~Rudyard Kipling

The person who really wants to do something finds a way; the other person finds an excuse. ~Author Unknown

Justifying a fault doubles it. ~French Proverb

The best day of your life is the one on which you decide your life is your own. No apologies or excuses. No one to lean on, rely on, or blame. The gift is yours - it is an amazing journey - and you alone are responsible for the quality of it. This is the day your life really begins. ~Bob Moawad

The absent are never without fault, nor the present without excuse. ~Benjamin Franklin

Usually, terrible things that are done with the excuse that progress requires them are not really progress at all, but just terrible things. ~Russell Baker

Sometimes I wish I had a terrible childhood, so that at least I'd have an excuse. ~Jimmy Fallon

Never ruin an apology with an excuse. ~Kimberly Johnson

Overwhelming Waves

2009-03-19T08:14:00.000-04:00

Overwhelmed
(overwhelmed, overwhelming, overwhelms)
1. To surge over and submerge; engulf: waves overwhelming the rocky shoreline.

2. a. To defeat completely and decisively: Our team overwhelmed the visitors by 40 points.

b. To affect deeply in mind or emotion: Despair overwhelmed me.

3. To present with an excessive amount: They overwhelmed us with expensive gifts.

4. To turn over; upset: The small craft was overwhelmed by the enormous waves.

Life can be overwhelming at times. Sometimes life does hit you with an excessive amount of force ( problems, situations, events, etc..) at one time. Keeping yourself afloat and not letting yourself get swept away into despair is what matters in the end. Being overwhelmed can eventually force you into feelings of hopelessness and helplessness. Which are two of the worse feelings ever. They can lead into more negative feelings or even worse, acted upon in the worse way like neglect or suicide. It is impossible to say whether or not one will experience being overwhelmed, but it seems more likely that most will eventually.
In my life I have found that many of the instances where I felt overwhelmed were a result of my own actions. By neglecting to do the things I knew needed to be done, when they should be done, left me with an overwhelming amount of things to do at once. By neglecting to do things in a timely manner, letting my time slip away I was overwhelmed when the deadlines were reached. By neglecting to take care of myself physically I was overwhelmed when medical problems began to appear. This is the pattern I have noticed in myself. I can think back into the past and the pattern usually fits.
Neglect
(neglecting, neglected, neglects)

1. To pay little or no attention to; fail to heed; disregard: neglected their warnings.

2. To fail to care for or attend to properly: neglects her appearance.

3. To fail to do or carry out, as through carelessness or oversight: neglected to return the call.

I am not saying that being overwhelmed is always a product of neglect. There are times when things just happen. A hurricane came and destroyed your dream house which you are still paying for and the bank is pursuing payment for the house but, at the same time you need to have money for your basics needs plus the repairs on the old house and etc.... I do however know that by actively putting forth effort not to neglect the things that should be done can put you in a better position to avoid being overwhelmed in the future. For example, preparing for the hurricane before it happens. What you do today does affect what you do tomorrow. "Prepare for the worse and wish for the best", this is a saying I learned in the military but, it makes perfect sense. By having the foresight to see possible problems in the future you are prepared to take action if or when a problem occurs.
Instead I would rather give myself the time to be overwhelmed by the beauty in life, the size of the cosmos or the concept of The Everlasting. Not to say I am always successful at this. However, recognizing this pattern has allowed me to enjoy life a little more fully and most importantly, I have learned that today's neglect will be an overwhelming wave tomorrow.

by KC Jackson

There’s no rule that says you have to be a superhero. So much has been written about amazing individuals that achieve the impossible – they juggle full time jobs, study, raise children, run a household, coach the national cricket team and write a novel in their spare time. Anyone you read about that does all these things is a rare individual. And they probably forgot to tell you about the six months they spent recovering from all the exertion…

Small amounts of stress can be motivating, however high levels of stress can have the opposite effect. Common symptoms of excess stress include fatigue, feeling overwhelmed, irritability and increased susceptibility to illness.

Are you always rushing to catch up? Do you have an enormous “To Do’ list that seems to grow each day? Poor time management is a common source of anxiety and stress.

If you have trouble getting things done, invest in a time management course to help you prioritise tasks, eliminate unnecessary activities and plan your day effectively. Here are some tips to get you started:

1. Be clear about what you are trying to achieve. Set personal, financial and career goals.
2. Take time at the beginning or end of each day to plan.
3. List everything you need to do and the date by which it needs to be completed.
4. Number each item in order of priority. Your highest priority items will be the ones that help you achieve your long-term goals and ambitions.
5. Delegate or lose tasks that do not help you achieve your goals and ambitions. Place a value on your time, and eliminate tasks that do not have a positive payback. For example, if you value your time at $25an hour, consider hiring someone at $12 an hour to do your housework.
6. Do one thing at a time, and see the task through to completion before starting something else. Switching between tasks can be a huge time waster.
7. Attack the tough top priority jobs first. Most people have a tendency to do all the little tasks first so they can get them out of the way. It is more effective to start with the highest priority task. Ask yourself, “What one task if completed would have the greatest positive impact on achieving my goals?” Try completing this task first.
8. Handle incoming mail once (and this includes email). Don’t keep putting it aside - make a decision and act on it immediately.
9. Set time aside each day to work or study without interruption - close the door, turn on your voice mail - do whatever it takes to make sure you can work in peace and quiet.
10. Don’t take on more than you can handle. If you can’t fit it in, say no.
11. Plan your personal time, such as playing tennis or catching up with friends. People often think that leisure activities need to be spontaneous but this isn’t true, it can be just as much fun to plan time out.
12. Plan your errands, client calls and other travel to ensure you make the best use of your time.

Find time each week to do something to nurture your soul – spend time with your children, dance, write in a journal or enjoy some guilt-free leisure. Scheduling time for relaxation will keep you motivated.

If you don’t already have a diary, put this on your shopping list today. You can use it to record your goals, appointments and also to remind you to take part in regular exercise, hobbies, family and romantic time and last but not least – fun!

by Talia Mana and borrowed from Self Growth.com

I am here.

2009-03-17T10:00:00.000-04:00

What a life. All is as good as it can be here. I am happy that Iraq is different now. I can't explain exactly what ways its different though. I am spending my time thinking of home. Beer, wifey, son. You know all the things you would expect.
I had a hard time on the way out. Wifey was pregnant, I was deploying and that's just the tip of the iceberg. Everything is looking better now. I am sure things will be different from now on. Wit the new family situation.I will be trying to get stationed on the East coast when I get back. Thanks to everyone who is offering their support. It helps a lot.
Until next time, much love and
GOD BLESS

How you know

2009-03-09T02:37:00.000-04:00

If you start to notice that you increasingly use the following sayings " back in the day, I remember when or I used to" before you tell a story, you might be getting old.

Reduce your expenses, from Wikihow

2009-03-08T00:37:00.000-05:00

How to Reduce Expenses

from wikiHow - The How to Manual That You Can Edit

"If by covetousnesse or negligence, one withdraw from them their ordinary foode, he shall be penny wise, and pound foolish."
E. Topsell: Four-footed Beasts (1607)
An important way to save money is to reduce expenses. There are a lot of ways you can stretch your dollars and help avoid that "too much month at the end of the money" feeling. Some of these steps will take a bit of planning and investigation but they will be well worth the effort. Others you will be able to implement immediately. Some will require a small up-front investment but have a substantial long-term payoff. Your ability to implement those will depend on available cash and your budget.
What you’ll need first, is a clear idea of where your money is going; then you can look at ways to cut fluff and lower the cost of your required living expense. Always keep in mind that it’s not just about cheaper; it’s about efficiency. Analyze your needs and do the math. Most importantly, however, is to understand that reducing expenses is a lifestyle change and a change in your thinking patterns. Never let yourself believe that pennies don't count.

Steps

Determine where you spend your money. If you don’t know where your money is going, you are most likely spending too much. You can get a solid idea in as little as one month and as you continue, you’ll see patterns develop that you can address. Write down everything you buy down to the last dollar. Don’t stop at the obvious things like rent, utilities, gasoline and food – include the ancillary items like sodas and snacks as well as gum or tobacco. What about happy hour? Did you rent a movie? Use a Row-by-Column ledger, spreadsheet or other software to keep track every month. If you exclusively use a debit card for your purchases, the bank will do this for you.
Immediately eliminate unnecessary routine purchases. While it’s likely this won’t be the largest savings area, it’s important and easy. Is the coffee shop on your way to work really necessary? How critical are the three sodas or snacks a day you buy from the office vending machine at $1.50 each? A cup of coffee that you made at home is only 25-35 cents, as is a soda you bought in a store as part of a 12 pack. Do you seriously have to rent all those movies (and pay those late fees) each month? Have you checked to see whether your library has movies, or calculated the cost of switching to Netflix and BlockBuster Online? Those ten lottery tickets… the odds against you are astronomical. This is quick and most of it is habit. There will be some psychological pain at first but when you add up the dollars you’ll see a big difference instantly.
Address your utilities.
- Heating and cooling (gas or electric): When you leave the house, set your thermostat to an "away" setting (a note of caution here: don’t set it so far from comfortable that it takes an inordinate amount of time to return to comfort when you get home: 65°F or 18°C in the winter and 80°F or 27°C in the summer might be reasonable numbers to use). Consider investing in ceiling fans – you can get these for as little as US$20 and they dramatically reduce cost of heating and cooling by circulating the air more efficiently. If your expenses are already low, and you won't be staying where you are for long, you may not save enough to pay for the fan, however.
- Electric: Lighting is expensive. When you leave a room, turn off the light. The idea that it takes more energy to turn on a light than to keep it on is completely false, as turning on a light only burns as much electricity as burning it for fractions of a second.[1] Energy efficient bulbs really work. This is an investment that will pay off over time but there is a significant savings to be gained. (this energy calculator can help). Turn off your computer/laptop when you’re not using it – (probably) the only reason you leave it on is convenience. Any voltage adapters (including the ones in stereo components) still use electricity even if they're not charging or plugged in to the device. If you have a digital box with an auxiliary AC outlet, plug your TV into it, and program the box to shut off the outlet when the box is turned off. For stereo components, plug them all into a power bar that can easily be switched off when not in use.Open the drapes during the day for light instead of burning electricity. Only use electricity when you absolutely need it.
- Water: Save water, save money. Invest in a shower-reduction kit – they cost nearly nothing and will start saving you money immediately. They work by reducing the flow to the shower head and the change is barely noticeable. Learn to take quicker showers – an inexpensive egg timer is a good way to help. Repair leaky toilets and faucets – this is an enormous waste of water and easy to fix. Reduce your lawn watering to minimum needs. If you have a pool, keep it covered when it’s not in use to reduce evaporation – also, if it’s heated that will dramatically increase evaporation as well (only heat your pool to keep it from freezing, and invest in a thermal blanket). Also if you're not using the faucet turn it off -- e.g., when brushing teeth do not leave faucet running.
- Gas and Miscellaneous: Do laundry as often as necessary but as little as possible – for a lot of people this is a pleasant step. Reduce the temperature of your shower by a couple of degrees; the less work your water heater does the more money you’ll save. Use the microwave instead of the oven whenever possible – the cost just to preheat an oven is more than the cost to cook a meal in the microwave. Open the windows when it’s nice outside to reduce heating (and cooling) costs.If you live where natural gas is used only in the winter months, arrange with your local utility to do a seasonal shutoff so that you are not saddled with fixed monthly service charges for the "privilege" of being connected to the gas service even though you are not using it. With one supplier, it is $17/month. In the 8 months that you don't need the service, you're charged $17 X 8 = $136, but the season shutoff and turn on costs $54.
- Cable and Telephone: Seriously, do you really, really need a thousand channels and every single premium channel available including the high definition packages? You can save the full $100+ on your cable bill every month by watching TV for free online. However, if you have cable internet, it may actually be CHEAPER to keep basic cable than to pay for internet alone. If you want to save money take a close look at your priorities. For your telephone, shop around based on your use. If you make a lot of long-distance calls to family and friends, perhaps one of the unlimited plans would save money. If all your calls are local you probably can get by with a bare-bones option. Consider that your cell phone may have free long distance; therefore, removing the necessity of having long distance on a land line. Look into the Voice-Over-IP (phone over the internet) for your telephone solutions. This is not an option for people with DSL, which is tied to their land line. One such solution is Vonage, [2], but there are several others.
- Cell phone: "wat r u up 2" "nm gtg ttyl" Text messages cost money. "Oh no, I have unlimited text!" Oh? How much does that option cost you? Do you actually even need a cell phone? Does everyone in your family actually need a cell phone? Parents – lay down the law on cell phone usage – is your eleven-year-old sitting around the house texting… are you? Another thing to consider is if you really require a cell phone then do you really need a land line at home? Consider consolidating. If your cell phone use is occasional only, consider a pay-as-you-go plan.
- Cell Phone Saving Plans: Some mobile phone plans are geniunely good and money-saving; but make sure that you shop around first for the deal that best suits you. Many companies offer either contract or PAYG plans based on the cellphone habits of the user, for example, someone who texts an awful lot or someone who prefers to call. For example, some companies reward you for topping up for a little bit per month with hundreds of free texts which can prove very handy and are much cheaper than calls. Remember, calls to networks other than yours, and landlines, are often considerably more pricey.
Reconsider Gasoline and Miscellaneous Auto: When gas was rationed during World War II, a popular slogan was "Is this trip really necessary?" Ask yourself that every time you get in your car. Make a list before you go to the store so you don’t have to make additional trips. Don’t go for a drive for pleasure – walk instead or choose other forms of entertainment (reading,exercising for example). Check the pressure in your tires. Convertibles get better mileage with the top up. A poorly running engine is a huge waste – even a spark plug change can make a big difference, as can clean oil. Also, the less you drive the less frequently you’ll change tires, oil, require maintenance, etc. That’s a savings-over-time, of course, but it will mount up. Another way to save gas (and money) is to change your driving habits. By simply driving more slowly, and/or less aggressively, you can save significant amounts of money (calculate for yourself at this web site [3]).
Cut Down on Entertainment: It’s astounding how many people complain about money then describe the latest release of a movie along with the cost of theater popcorn. Also, professional sports event, a music concert or tickets to a play can run hundreds of dollars for a couple on a date. Seriously, can you really tell the difference (blindfolded) between a $30 bottle of wine and a $9 bottle of wine? When you do dine out, actually think about the prices on the menu first. Consider a meal share if the restaurant offers that option. Never, ever order delivery. Look for vacation bargains – consider taking the kids camping instead of one of the super expensive amusement parks.
Focus on Food: The only real difference between a $1.99 can of corn and a $0.63 can of corn is $1.36 (sure there are exceptions; people on low-sodium diets will definitely have to pay more). The grocery store is a place you can save big.
- Look for foods that are marked "WIC" for savings. Those have been approved for the Women, Infants and Children program by the USDA Department of Food and Nutrition Services… healthy, nutritious and inexpensive. That ring of cooked shrimp is on sale and sure looks tasty… how about a nice grilled chicken breast with green beans and rice? Make dining in an experience instead of just a convenience. It’s quite possible to spend as much on home food as you would by eating out if you are wasteful.
- Invest $10 in a coffee pot. Making your coffee at home instead of purchasing your $1, $3, or $7 custom latte at the coffee shop will save you money.
- Consider taking your lunch to work instead of buying lunch each day. Even an inexpensive lunch out is several dollars a day – do the math.
- Use coupons whenever possible. Make sure these are on items you would normally eat so you don't purchase things that will be wasted by sitting in your cupboards forever or spoil in your refrigerator. Also use buy store specials and use store customer cards when possible toward food purchases.
- Look into joining a warehouse club. The price of the membership is usually made up in the first shopping. They carry name-brand products and will take coupons. Also, by not having to shop as often, you spend less money by not being in the store every week and risking impulse purchases. Warehouse club shopping must be done with discretion or you will not save money.
- When purchasing meat items, aim for pieces where you can identify the body part from which it came. Ground beef, although cheap, is processed which increases it's price. Tougher cuts of meat can be slow-cooked and made incredibly tender. Also larger pieces can be cooked in bulk and used for several different recipes. (Cook one large piece and when tender, tear it up for use in enchiladas, sandwiches, stews or soups, etc. Simply store in individual portions, labeled with the type of meat and date, for later use.) Organ meat (chicken hearts and gizzards, beef hearts, tripe) are often far cheaper than normal cuts, and can be used to make tasty and filling stews.
- Avoid large packages of fresh produce to avoid spoilage; frozen produce will extend the shelf life of all your fruit and vegetables.
- Measure product use carefully (like soap powder); don't be wasteful with the products just because it comes in a large container.
- Buy products you will actually use instead of substituting just because it's on your list and the only item available. Are you really going to enjoy that box of cereal that's not your regular brand, or is it going to sit on your shelf?
- Be aware of the influence that product promotions do have on your purchase habits and do your best to track this.
Address your insurance costs: The fastest way for some people to reduce monthly expenses will be in the area of health, auto and life insurance. Companies that sell those are incredibly competitive. Get some bids from different companies. When you do this, bear in mind that lower initial premiums will not always be the most cost efficient!
- Auto Insurance: Look at your deductible. Don’t jump to increase your deductible – analyze the entire plan based on your needs and expectations; do a risk analysis first. If you have an inexperienced driver in your house and you don’t have savings, having a high deductible might not be the best choice – also if your car is financed you may have minimum insurance requirements. However if you have a long history of good driving and you own your car, outright, you might consider a high deductible to save on premiums.
- Health Insurance: Investigate alternatives. Shop around for plans that are consistent and cost efficient with your lifestyle. Consider your actual needs vs. what you have. A single man in perfect health in his mid-30’s might choose a plan with a higher copay or co-insurance and lower premiums, whereas a married couple wanting to start a family might do better with higher premiums but more extensive coverage. In other cases, prescription benefits might be the most important. The point is to look at what you must have .
- Life Insurance: There is no question that this is important – for many people. The rule of thumb for someone with a family is three to five years' replacement income. However, if you’re a 20ish single consider carefully and determine if you’re over-insured. If you’re married in your mid-60’s have you looked at comparative plans from places like AARP? If you’re most interested in "burial policies" then, again, these companies are incredibly competitive. We all would like to leave our loved ones wealthy in the event of our demise, but not at the expense of your quality of life right now.
- Home (and Renter’s) Insurance: This can be a large expense and many home owners have no idea how much they’re paying because it comes out of their house payments – out of sight, out of mind. Review your plan with your agent. Are your personal possessions really and truly worth the $250,000 you have on the policy? Also look for areas that are lacking. Is water damage covered; snow damage; hail damage? Think whether or not you’ll need those. Is anything important excluded? Is anything irrelevant included? Yes, Great-Aunt Martha’s rocking chair has sentimental value but do you really need a special rider to cover it?
Consider pre-owned items: This is a great way to save significant amounts of money while recycling! If you absolutely must buy something, there are options other than a mall anchor store or a big-box superstore. There are large thrift stores (e.g. Goodwill) and smaller church-run stores that have some incredible bargains on everything from home knickknacks to appliances to clothing. It’s amazing how fast a 4-year old will outgrow shoes (when that happens, re-donate them so somebody else can benefit). Look for garage sales – your neighbors will definitely not think less of you because you bought the winter jacket they are trying to sell – hold your own garage sale and they just might want what you no longer need. There are online sites that often have bargains (like Craigslist.org, Overstock.com and eBay.com).
Actively manage your credit: A poor credit score costs tens of thousands over the years in increased interest rates and insurance costs. You may even lose your job or lose out on a job application. Pull all three reports; challenge everything that appears incorrect. Pay all bills on time or early. Pay off revolving debt (credit cards) and put those cards away.
Avoid the overdraft on debit cards: An overdraft may seem like a good idea, but it is simply one step nearer to a pricey pitfall. Even if the bank you are with doesn't charge you for using the overdraft, they will definitely charge you if you even toe the line over it. The good thing about debit cards is that you are not using money that you don't have, and an overdraft will most definitely weaken your discipline over your finances. Don't do it!

Tips

Recycle and reuse. The plastic bags for your groceries make good trash bags too. If you really want to become efficient, consider things like saving your cooking grease (baby boomers already know that) or reheat that half-full pot of coffee… if you want two cups of hot tea tonight, one bag is probably sufficient.
Insulate. Insulation for your attic, walls (including outer wall electrical outlets) will absolutely save you money over time. Much of this, you can do yourself. While you are at it, check the weather stripping around the doors to the outside; if you can see daylight between the door and frame -- purchase a roll of adhesive foam door seal and close those cracks.
Consider investing in reusable items. Rechargeable batteries are a good option if your battery consumption is high – the question you should ask yourself is: why is your battery consumption high and what can you do to reduce that?
Quit smoking. OK, this is obvious. Aside from the $150 a month, there are the enormous added costs to your health and life (and possibly auto and home) insurance and a very strong (almost guaranteed) potential for extraordinary health costs.
Limit alcohol. Alcohol is an added expense you may be able to eliminate altogether, or at least significantly reduce.
Stop gambling. If you gamble (unless you are consistently making money and you know that from tax returns, of course)… stop. Quit. Nix. Never. The odds against winning the Powerball lottery are around 150 million to 1 against you.
Stop using paper napkins and paper towels. Cloth towels are more absorbent and can be used over and over again. Cloth napkins can be made from an old table cloth. They also clean much better than paper.
Think about every purchase before you make it. Ask yourself whether you need it or simply want it. Do you already own something that will perform the same task? Is it of good quality or will it need to be replaced after a few uses? Most importantly, are you willing to put off your savings goals to have it? If an item is superfluous, just say no.
Use the 24 hour rule. Wait 24 hours before making the purchase for non-critical items.
Grow a garden. Even a small plot can yield significant amounts of fresh food. You can of course spend a fortune at the garden store but shop around, ask neighbors and grow your own starts.

Warnings

Do not only consider the least expensive option – that is certainly not always the best option. Many, many times, an initial savings will cost you more later. Carefully consider life cycle cost in addition to the acquisition cost.
If you buy pre-owned, check carefully… this is especially true of cars. It’s worth the investment to have a mechanic check the car (unless you’re perfectly competent in that area – are you sure?).
Don’t go completely overboard. It’s great to be frugal; it’s not great to be a mean-spirited miser. If your child (or you) must have new shoes or new glasses then definitely look for bargains but keep your priorities straight.

Related wikiHows

Sources and Citations

↑ http://kwc.org/mythbusters/2006/12/episode_69_22000_foot_fall_lig.html

↑ http://www.vonage.com

↑ http://www.seabreezecomputers.com/savegas/#speed_calc

Article provided by wikiHow, a wiki how-to manual. Please edit this article and find author credits at the original wikiHow article on How to Reduce Expenses. All content on wikiHow can be shared under a Creative Commons license.

My good luck charms

2009-03-02T12:46:00.000-05:00

Just thought someone might be interested in the good luck charms I have been carrying around Iraq. Some are new and some are as old as my first deployment to Iraq.
From left to right the items are:
1. Shiny crucifix for sacrifice and faith
2. Ankh given to me by my wife before I left for OIF 2 in 2004. An ankh symbolizes eternal life.
3. Dog tag with The Lord's Prayer engraved on it. I finally committed this to memory.
4. Dog tag given to me by my mother with a special message on it.
5. Crucifix with the serenity prayer etched into the metal reminding me not to let overwhelming situations defeat me.
6. Ring with crucifixes on it representing faith, sacrifice, love, hope and pretty much reminds me of all the great gifts in life.
7. Wedding ring reminding me of love, responsibility and commitment.

Kathy and Eliajh

2009-03-01T18:08:00.001-05:00

Kathy and Elijah. He got really chubby huh? that's good though. He's growing.
This is him at 3 1/2 months. He still just getting used to being here. He has a lot to learn. I hope I make a good daddy. I will be putting forth a heroic effort. Well I still have around 230 days left here. All of them will be spent doing my best to get him and my soldiers home. My baby girl is back home taking care of the home front while I'm on the front lines. We have had one crazy year. More crazy for her than me. I always thought that I treated her good but, now I will make sure to treat her better after all of this. Makes you fell different when your life isn't partying and drinking and sex anymore. Got too many people depending on me and too many commitments. Not that I am complaining. That's a part of life right? Eventually having something to commit to.
Got something to live for. Life isn't so willynilly anymore huh? There was a time when going to a bar getting drunk and fighting was a great Friday. When taking risks were the more enjoyable part of life. I'm talking about dangerous risks. Sex, drugs, violence, danger! Now, I find myself thinking more than twice when it comes to something small like walking down the street or stepping into the tub. Don't get me wrong I am not a wimp or anything now, just A LOT more careful about how I go about things. I have been pretty lucky though. Wifey, the baby, my family, I am so excited to see what happens next!

Humor, GI joe

2009-02-26T15:47:00.000-05:00

IF you remember GI JOE you might think this is funny.

Enlightened?

2009-02-26T12:53:00.000-05:00

The goal, the final stage. Where one is one with the universe and free of earthly strife.
Wishing to attain this state but, where to begin. When does a man reach the point to which they are one with everything? When one truly knows and feels the truth. The truth of humanity's past present and future.

Enlightenment:

1.	the act of enlightening.

2.	the state of being enlightened: to live in spiritual enlightenment.

3. Buddhism & Hinduism A blessed state in which the individual transcends desire and suffering and attains Nirvana.

Nirvana:

Buddhism The ineffable ultimate in which one has attained disinterested wisdom and compassion.
Hinduism Emancipation from ignorance and the extinction of all attachment.

4. An ideal condition of rest, harmony, stability, or joy.

5. a place or state characterized by freedom from or oblivion to pain, worry, and the external world.

Enlightenment broadly means wisdom or understanding enabling clarity of perception. However, the English word covers two concepts which can be quite distinct: religious or spiritual enlightenment and secular or intellectual enlightenment. This can cause confusion, since those who claim intellectual enlightenment often reject spiritual concepts altogether.
In religious use, enlightenment is most closely associated with South and East Asian religious experience, being used to translate words such as (in Buddhism) bodhi or satori, or (in Hinduism) moksha. The concept does also have parallels in the Abrahamic religions (in the Kabbalah tradition in Judaism, in Christian mysticism or Gnosticism, and in the Sufi tradition of Islam).
Click for original post: Wikipedia

In Human, All Too Human, philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche had this to say about enlightenment and the understanding of good and evil:

"The man who wants to gain wisdom profits greatly from having thought for a time that man is basically evil and degenerate: this idea is wrong, like its opposite, but for whole periods of time it was predominant and its roots have sunk deep into us and into our world. To understand ourselves we must understand it; but to climb higher, we must then climb over and beyond it. We recognize that there are no sins in the metaphysical sense; but, in the same sense, neither are there any virtues; we recognize that this entire realm of moral ideas is in a continual state of fluctuation, that there are higher and deeper concepts of good and evil, moral and immoral. A man who desires no more from things than to understand them easily makes peace with his soul and will err (or "sin," as the world calls it) at the most out of ignorance, but hardly out of desire. He will no longer want to condemn and root out his desires; but his single goal, governing him completely, to understand as well as he can at all times, will cool him down and soften all the wildness in his disposition. In addition, he has rid himself of a number of tormenting ideas; he no longer feels anything at the words "pains of hell," "sinfulness," "incapacity for the good": for him they are only the evanescent silhouettes of erroneous thoughts about life and the world."
Click for original post: Wikipedia

Every method is a different road leading to a similar ending. It is just interesting. I can't talk like an expert but, I can say that my understanding is increasing inch by inch and day by day.
What better thing to strive for than peace over conflict, knowledge over ignorance and wisdom over foolishness? What better thought to fill your mind?
Well choosing happiness over sadness hardly seems like the wrong choice. There is always a twofold choice and nature of things. Happiness to sadness, charity to greed, love to hate. To stay on the correct path you would have to consistently be choosing the correct of the two. Not to say that would not eventually become harder and more complicated. The choice seems to be easy as we all know the right choice. It is the action that gets harder. As knowing that laziness will get you no where and actually not being lazy aren't the same thing.
As men (or women) we all have the tendency to create justifications as to why we are not doing what we know is right. " I stole BECAUSE I was hungry". These choices get harder and more complicated as time goes on it seems.
As for me, I will continue waking up everyday and focusing on the right thoughts and actions. I am not always successful but, out of the many choices we make throughout the day, there are more than enough chances to make the right choice.

Major Milestone

2009-02-24T08:41:00.000-05:00

A major milestone

Today President Obama is celebrating the passage of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act as a "major milestone on our road to recovery," while still emphasizing that we have many miles yet to go.

"This historic step won't be the end of what we do to turn our economy around, but the beginning," he says in his weekly address. To get us there, he invokes President Kennedy, who said, "Do not pray for easy lives. Pray to be stronger men. Do not pray for tasks equal to your powers. Pray for powers equal to your tasks."

President Obama acknowledges that some people are skeptical about the plan given how Washington has performed in the past, which is why he's encouraging people to check back at Recovery.gov -- the site where, once the plan is in action, you'll be able to track the funds.

"Ultimately, this is your money, and you deserve to know where it's going and how it's spent," he says.

Watch the address below.
A major milestone
Today President Obama is celebrating the passage of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act as a "major milestone on our road to recovery," while still emphasizing that we have many miles yet to go.

"This historic step won't be the end of what we do to turn our economy around, but the beginning," he says in his weekly address. To get us there, he invokes President Kennedy, who said, "Do not pray for easy lives. Pray to be stronger men. Do not pray for tasks equal to your powers. Pray for powers equal to your tasks."

President Obama acknowledges that some people are skeptical about the plan given how Washington has performed in the past, which is why he's encouraging people to check back at Recovery.gov -- the site where, once the plan is in action, you'll be able to track the funds.

"Ultimately, this is your money, and you deserve to know where it's going and how it's spent," he says.

Watch the address below.

2/14/09: Your Weekly Address from White House on Vimeo.

Click here for original post
I personally have no opinions on this right now. I am going to observe and see what happens first. This guy inherited some serious problems. I wonder how he will do. Only time will tell.

Give up now?

2009-02-24T07:45:00.000-05:00

You ever feel like giving up? You ever feel like you upheld your end of the bargain and the rest of the world didn't? Why then, should you allow yourself to feel crushed and defeated? Isn't every challenge just another opportunity to gain strength and wisdom?
Well, I choose to never give up. Nothing was ever achieved by sitting on one's ass. My waking thought is " Today I will be one inch farther than yesterday and one inch closer to tomorrow".
In this I mean, there are many things about myself that could use improving. From my physical fitness and health, to my morals, personal resolve and spirit. Everyday I am thinking today will be better than yesterday and everyday this is starting to seem true. Even when something bad happens during the course of the day. It always helps to stop, think and milk the situation for any ounce of wisdom. I am finding out that in every situation, there is always something to be learned.
These lessons carry on till the next day and the next. I guess that is what was meant by the quote" Wisdom is timeless".
I have commitments, responsiblities and people who I have to account for. If at every obstacle and failure I made excuses and looked for things to blame not only would I learn nothing, but I would also be letting myslef and my family down. And there are plenty of obstacles and chances at failure in life. The most impportant part is, when you fall down, you have to get back up and dust yourself off. Learn why you fell and if it was beyond your control consider how you might avoid those kinds of situations in the future.
"Giving up" is failing to "Live up" to your own standards. It is compromising your own integrity and morals. Even if the situation is playing soccer. If you suck at playing soccer and give up at it, you will have failed to live up to your own standard of being a soccer player by not trying to improve. This is when you asses your strenghts and weaknesses and do what needs to be done in order to live up to your standards. That may be a simplistic example but it makes sense.
There are exceptions of course. In life sometimes you just have to cut your losses and move on. Wisdom is being able to identify these events.
The more and more I ponder and evaluate myslef in the process of self developement, the more alone I feel. I have found very few people that seem to understand how I feel. I'm not saying that everyone should but, someone has to be able to understand what I mean somewhere and be doing the same things.

KC Jackson

Quotes to inspire and Motivate

2009-02-24T07:32:00.000-05:00

"People often say that motivation doesn't Last. Well, neither does bathing
That's why we recommend it daily!" ~ Zig Ziglar

A winner makes commitment. A loser makes promises.
- Unknown Author

As a peaceful warrior, I would choose when, where and how I would behave. With that commitment, I began to live the life of a warrior.
- Dan Millman

Commitment is what transforms a promise into reality. It is the words that speak boldly of your intentions. And the actions which speak louder than the words. It is making the time when there is none. Coming through time after time after time, year after year after year. Commitment is the stuff character is made of; the power to change the face of things. It is the daily triumph of integrity over skepticism.
- Anon

A consistent soul believes in destiny, a capricious one in chance.
- Benjamin Disraeli

Despair is the conclusion of fools.
- Benjamin Disraeli

Hold a picture of yourself long and steadily enough in your mind's eye, and you will be drawn toward it.
- Napoleon Hill

"Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called."

1 Timothy 6:12

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.
John 14:27

Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.
James 1:12 New International Version Bible

Come to me all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your soul. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.
Matthew 11:28-30 NIV

Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.
Psalm 23:4 KJV

"My son, observe the commandment of your father;
And do not forsake the teaching of your mother;
Bind them continually on your heart;
Tie them around your neck."
Proverbs 6:20,21 New American Standard Bible

Many are the sorrows of the wicked, but he who trusts in the LORD, lovingkindness shall surround him.
Psalm 32:10 (NASB)

The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD: and he delighteth in his way. Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down: for the LORD upholdeth him with his hand.
Psalm 37:23-24 (KJV)

Never Give Up,

2009-02-24T07:14:00.000-05:00

I will never give up
No matter what the odds are
No matter what people say
No matter how far
I will never give up

If I throw it away time after time
If I am one step behind try after try
If I miss dime after dime
I will never give up

Even when it seems all over
Even when no one else believes
Even when it seems I can go no further
I will never give up

For I know I have strength within
For I know I can persevere
For I know that I can win
I will never give up

Because it's someone else's fault
Because I am settling for good enough
Because I fear that I will fall short
I will never give up

There is so much I can still do
There is too much talent to waste
There is so much in me that I want you to see
I will never give up

Why squander all of my hard work and dedication
Why not show the world that I am a fearless baller
Why quit when I still have the opportunity to go on
I will never give up

If I do, I will not be the best me that could live
If I do, I will never know what I am capable of
If I do, I am not giving the world all I can give
I will never give up

Written in 2004 by K.D., Age 15 --- Oregon
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Things change

2009-02-21T08:14:00.000-05:00

Did you forget why you came here?
Wasn't there a reason this happened?
Oh, times change?
Well times change and people change but my love remains the same.
What were we doing?
What were we pursuing?
Oh, things change?
Well things change and feelings change but my love remains the same.
What was it that you wanted?
Where did you wanna go?
Oh, desires change?
Well desires change, wants change but my love remains the same.

Things change, People change, Times change, Emotions change, Desires change, Places change
but my love remains the same.
By: KC Jackson

Wisdom

2009-02-19T11:28:00.000-05:00

Wisdom is knowledge, understanding, experience, discretion, and intuitive understanding, along with a capacity to apply these qualities well towards finding solutions to problems. It is the judicious and purposeful application of knowledge that is valued in society. To some extent the terms wisdom and intelligence have similar and overlapping meanings. The status of wisdom or prudence as a virtue is recognized in cultural, philosophical and religious sources.

A wise person can discern the core of important problems.
A wise person has self-knowledge.
A wise person seems sincere and direct with others.
Others ask wise people for advice.
A wise person's actions are consistent with his/her ethical beliefs.

Confucius stated that wisdom can be learned by three methods: Reflection (the noblest), imitation (the easiest) and experience (the bitterest). According to "Doctrine of the Mean," Confucius also said, "Love of learning is akin to wisdom. To practice with vigor is akin to humanity. To know to be shameful is akin to courage (zhi,ren,yi..three of Mengzi's sprouts of virtue)." Compare this with the beginning of the Confucian classic "Great Learning" which begins with "The Way of learning to be great consists in manifesting the clear character, loving the people, and abiding in the highest good" one can clearly see the correlation with the Roman virtue "prudence," especially if one transliterates clear character as clear conscience. (Quotes from Chan's Sources of Chinese Philosophy).

Buddha taught that a wise person is endowed with good bodily conduct, good verbal conduct & good mental conduct (AN 3:2) and a wise person does actions that are unpleasant to do but give good results and doesn’t do actions that are pleasant to do but give bad results (AN 4:115). The Buddha has much to say on the subject of wisdom including:

He who arbitrates a case by force does not thereby become just (established in Dhamma). But the wise man is he who carefully discriminates between right and wrong.
He who leads others by nonviolence, righteously and equitably, is indeed a guardian of justice, wise and righteous.
One is not wise merely because he talks much. But he who is calm, free from hatred and fear, is verily called a wise man.
By quietude alone one does not become a sage (muni) if he is foolish and ignorant. But he who, as if holding a pair of scales, takes the good and shuns the evil, is a wise man; he is indeed a muni by that very reason. He who understands both good and evil as they really are, is called a true sage.

In Islam, according to the Qur'an, all of the prophets of the Old Testament, Jesus, as well as the Prophet Muhammad were chosen by Allah, mostly in times of political or moral crisis, to represent his wisdom. The Prophet Muhammad said that: "Fearing Allah in your actions and intentions, and knowing that Almighty Allah is watching you wherever and whenever you are is the head/peak of wisdom. In addition, Islam also mentions that a wise man with the name of Luqman once told his son to: "Sit with the learned men and keep close to them. Allah gives life to the hearts with the light of wisdom as Allah gives life to the dead earth with the abundant rain of the sky"

In the Christian Bible and Jewish scripture, Wisdom is also represented by the sense of justice of the lawful and wise king Solomon, who asks God for wisdom in 1 Kings 3. Proverbs 9:10 says: "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom," (Proverbs 1:7) and 8:13 "To fear the Lord is to hate evil;".
There is an oppositional element in Christian thought between secular wisdom and Godly wisdom. The apostle Paul states that worldly wisdom thinks the claims of Christ to be foolishness. However, to those who are being saved Christ represents the wisdom of God. (1 Corinthians 1:17-31) Also, Wisdom is one of the Seven gifts of the Holy Spirit according to Anglican, Catholic, and Lutheran belief.

Click to view original web page: Wikipedia

IRR-RE-GARD-LESS

2009-02-19T11:19:00.000-05:00

Regardless of what I post. A big majority of the time all I think about is this: Tits, Ass, Beer.,...

ChristianSoldier Cross

2009-02-19T11:08:00.004-05:00

I found this awesome website. I have stolen a few things from it already. If you have the time go check it out it is pretty cool. You can also order a handmade cross there too..............
Anyway here is the link: ChristianSoldierCross

Sometimes

2009-02-19T11:08:00.003-05:00

Lord Sometimes.....

...You allow Breakage's,
so You can Rebuild;

...You allow Wounds,
so You can Heal;

...You allow me to Walk in Darkness,
so that I see Your Light;

...You allow me to be Perplexed,
so I seek Your Truth;

...You allow me to be Empty,
so You can Fill Me;

...You allow me to be Lonely,
so I can see what a Friend - You are;

...You allow me to Learn hard Things,
so I can be a gentle Teacher;

...You allow me to be void of Feelings,
so I learn to walk by Faith;

...You take away my future Plans,
to Teach me to Live one Day at a Time;

...You allow me to suffer Pain,
so I may be Sympathetic to the Hurts of Others;

...You allow me to see the Futility of Life,
so I will see Everything is Loss,
Compared to the Excellency of Knowing Your Son, Jesus.

- Author Unknown

Sometimes

2009-02-19T11:08:00.001-05:00

Life is a gift.

2009-02-19T11:01:00.000-05:00

Life is a gift...

There was once a blind girl who hated herself for no other reason except that she was blind. She hated everyone, except her loving boyfriend.

He was always there for her. She said that if she could only see the world, she would marry her boyfriend. One day, someone donated a pair of eyes to her and then she could see everything, including her boyfriend.

Her boyfriend asked her, "Now that you can see the world, will you marry me?"

The girl was shocked when she saw that her boyfriend was blind. Not wanting to be burdened by a 'blind' person, she refused to marry him. Her loving, devoted and understanding boyfriend walked away in tears. His heart obviously broken.

The girl who had been so fortunate to have the world opened up to her, continued enjoying it; day in and day out.... trying to never miss a single pleasure life had to offer.

One day she received a letter from her ex-boy friend which stated simply.......

"I sincerely hope you enjoy your life. Your happiness was all that
ever mattered to me. I am so happy that you are enjoying life as I always hoped you could. I would like to ask one parting favor of you my dear. Just take care of my eyes!"

This, as sad as it may seem, is how the human brain changes when our status changes. Only a few remember what life was like before and who's always been there even in the most painful situations.

Today before you think of saying an unkind word - Think of someone who can't speak.

Before you complain about the taste of your food - Think of someone who has nothing to eat.

Before you complain about your husband or wife - Think of someone who's crying out to God for a companion.

Today before you complain about life - Think of someone who went too early to heaven.

Before you complain about your children - Think of someone who desires children but they're barren.

Before you argue about your dirty house, someone didn't clean - Think of the people who are living in the streets.

Before whining about the distance you drive - Think of someone who walks the same distance.

Before you think of pointing the finger or condemning another. Remember that not one of us are without faults and we all answer to one higher power.

When depressing thoughts seem to get you down - Put a smile on your face and thank God you're alive and still around.

Life is a gift...

Thank God for it!!!

This excerpt was taken from http://www.christiansoldierscross.com/

Click here to visit website.

Pass this pic around.....

2009-02-19T10:58:00.000-05:00

I found this pic, Pass it around if you like.

Missing everbody

2009-02-18T00:43:00.000-05:00

I am missing Kathy and the girls. We had lots of fun together. I even miss arguing and yelling with them!
I miss my parents, I wonder if what they pictured I would be when I was young. I wonder if they are proud or disappointed.
I miss my siblings, because they are the only ones that know me.
I miss my cousins, I never found another friend quite like them.
I miss my bed because there isn't much comfort at night here.
I miss my bathroom, Because they are all gross here.
I miss BEER and SEX, they go together like peanut butter and jelly.
I miss playing video games with Kala, she thinks its hilarious when I talk trash to the game.
I miss Allie's sweetness, she could pull you out of the worst of moods.
I miss having conversations with the girls, they always surprise with their own perspectives on life.
I miss Elijah, he don't know me yet, but I think we will have tons of fun.
I do not miss the cat that much, all he do is scratch me and bite me.
I need a cigarette.

Check this out
I found a family crest for Jackson

Wicked Sandstorm

2009-02-10T08:45:00.000-05:00

There was a sand storm today. It was pretty awesome. All day the sky was dim and dust was blowing everywhere. It was pretty mild compared to how bad they can get. I took a film in case any of you wanted to see it. The whole time I had the camera out, the wind blew dirt all in my nose and mouth. As you can see visibility is reduced to under about 50 ft. I do not know how fast the winds were going though.
Anyway, I am doing good all is good here and at the home front. Elijah is nice and fat. My Mother is getting along with Wifey. I can not wait to be home though and see my baby boy.

Technical Malfunction: I apologize , you will have to stand-by for the video.

My Babygirl said this....

2009-02-07T08:33:00.000-05:00

"Life is always moving, sometimes in still, gentle rhythms and sometimes powerfully like a tsunami. I have no control over the fact that life is always changing and rearranging everything around and within me. I DO, HOWEVER, HAVE CONTROL OVER HOW I RIDE THE WAVES"

This quote says a lot to me. I am glad to have my woman on my side always. I know that when worse comes to worse, she has got my back.

Elijah is over 2 months old now!!!

2009-02-06T01:15:00.000-05:00

Well, here he is Elijah Robert Jackson. He is over 2 months now. You wouldn't be able to tell he was premature. He turned into a chubby monster huh? Its all good. He needs to grow and get as strong as he can. He seems like a little warrior so far. Here he is proudly wearing the battle scars from a fight with his lion. I can't wait to meet him. It looks like I get to miss all the waking up in the middle of the night though. My mother is there being a GrandMa. I think she enjoys it.
This little guy has a lot of family. He will be loved. Kathy is doing good too! We went through a lot together. We got to the point we didn't know what to do. All we could do was take care of our business and put the rest into GOD's hands. I am ok now. Work isn't what it used to be. I think the enjoyment is gone. Now it is purely WORK. lol. I spend a lot of time in the gym. I hope I can get my 25 yr old body back, plus, I am going to have to keep up with Elijah.

P.S. I posted more pics in the slide shows and added new ones. Check them out.

This Shit is funny as FUCK.,,,,lol

2009-02-03T11:53:00.000-05:00

Wussup?...I got some new pics too.

2009-01-29T11:41:00.000-05:00

Hey gurl,
You made my whole world twirl,
Kept me dreaming throughout the night
and day.
Only if I had the words to say, I'd tell you how you made me
feel this way.

Hey gurl,
You changed my world from blue,
A sunny day in spring is how I'll always
see you.

Hey gurl,
You made my whole world twirl.

NEW

2009-01-27T08:09:00.000-05:00

There are new pics on the slide shows
Check 'em out!

Wishing

2009-01-23T08:23:00.000-05:00

Wishing

Poet: Ella Wheeler Wilcox

Do you wish the World were better?
Let me tell you what to do:

Set a watch upon your actions,
Keep them always straight and true.
Rid your mind of selfish motives,
Let your thoughts be clean and high.
You can make a little Eden
Of the sphere you occupy.

Do you wish the World were wiser?
Then suppose you make a start,

By accumulating wisdom
In the scrap book of your heart
. Do not waste one page on folly;
Live to learn and learn to live.
If you want to give men knowledge
You must get it ere you give.

Do you wish the World were happy?
Then remember day by day,

Just to scatter seeds of kindness,
As you pass along the way.
For the pleasures of the many,
May be oft times traced to one.
As the hand that plants an acorn,
Shelters armies from the sun.

Yay for Me!!!!

2009-01-23T08:02:00.000-05:00

stubborn

Pronunciation:: \ˈstə-bərn\
Function:: adjective
Etymology:: Middle English stibourne, stuborn
Date:: 14th century

1 a (1): unreasonably or perversely unyielding : mulish (2): justifiably unyielding : resolute b: suggestive or typical of a strong stubborn nature stubborn jaw>2: performed or carried on in an unyielding, obstinate, or persistent manner <stubborn effort>3: difficult to handle, manage, or treat stubborn cold>4: lasting <stubborn facts>

synonyms see obstinate

— stub·born·ly adverb

— stub·born·ness \-bər(n)-nəs\ noun

The Man Rules////

2009-01-22T10:07:00.000-05:00

The Man Rules

'the rules'

These are our rules!

Please note... they are all numbered '1' ON PURPOSE!

1. Men are NOT mind readers.

1. Learn to work the toilet seat. You're a big girl. If it's up, put it down. We need it up, you need it down. You don't hear us complaining about you leaving it down.

1. Sunday sports It's like the full moon or the changing of the tides. Let it be.

1. Crying is blackmail.

1. Ask for what you want. Let us be clear on this one! Subtle hints do not work! Strong hints do not work! Obvious hints do not work! Just say it!

1. Yes and No are perfectly acceptable answers to almost every question.

1. Come to us with a problem only if you want help solving it. That's what we do. Sympathy is what your girlfriends are for.

1. Anything we said 6 months ago is inadmissible in an argument.. In fact, all comments become Null and void after 7 Days.

1. If you think you're fat, you probably are. Don't ask us.

1. If something we said can be interpreted two ways and one of the ways makes you sad or angry, we meant the other one.

1. You can either ask us to do something Or tell us how you want it done. Not both. If you already know best how to do it, just do it yourself.

1. Whenever possible, Please say whatever you have to say during commercials.

1. Christopher Columbus did NOT need directions and neither do we.

1. ALL men see in only 16 colors, like Windows default settings. Peach, for example, is a fruit, not A color. Pumpkin is also a fruit. We have NO idea what mauve is.

1. If it itches, it will be scratched. We do that.

1. If we ask what is wrong and you say 'nothing,' We will act like nothing's wrong. We know you are lying, but it is just not worth the hassle.

1. If you ask a question you don't want an answer to, Expect an answer you don't want to hear.

1. When we have to go somewhere, absolutely anything you wear is fine... Really!

1. Don't ask us what we're thinking about unless you are prepared to discuss such topics as baseball or golf.

1. You have enough clothes.

1. You have too many shoes.

1. I am in shape. Round IS a shape!

1. Thank you for reading this. Yes, I know I have to sleep on the couch tonight;But did you know men really don't mind that? It's like camping.

Stress, By KC

2009-01-22T09:51:00.000-05:00

Stress is like a thousand little mouths gnawing at my nerve endings.
Like a crappy movie that never ends.
Feeling like the whole world is closing in.
Don't know where to begin.
Stretched to the limits, ready to break.
Don't know which decision to make.
Forever feeling like NOW is too late.
Telling everyone, "wow I feel great"
Wishing I would've asked her for a date.
Wishing that I was born under a different fate.
Uncertain of where life may take me.
Knowing that I'm not what I wanted to be ...
Knowing I never seen what I wanted to see.
Knowing hardly anyone has seen me as me.
Even to me, my thoughts make no sense.
What do I got to do to make things right ?
Why did I get in that fight ?
Am I the only one going through this plight ?
It feels wrong, when I know I'm doing right.
Feels like all my days, are now all my nights.
Created by stimuli, sometimes.
Created by me, other times.
Stress is keeping me from feeling free.
Keeping me from feeling like me.
Is this exactly like how life is supposed to be ?
Take one brick watch the whole wall fall.
Never headed advice, Always been too nice.
My feelings don't suffice, Wish I was cold like ice.
Should I be what the world told me to be ?
Can I do what the world told me i could do ?
Sometimes I wanna do less.
Don't wanna be best, or put to the test.
Wanna be me, alive and free.
But that's not a choice on our society.
In the rat race we live.
All we earn we give.
Struggle for wealth, forgetting our health.
Never known what was real.
Don't get what I want,
Don't eat what I hunt.
This is life for me.
I'm not insane, I'm still in the game.
But this is stress
By KC Jackson

Update: Video of Inauguration

2009-01-21T11:01:00.000-05:00

Here is a video of the Inauguration

Obama, Inaugurated, Oh Happy Day

2009-01-20T13:21:00.000-05:00

"My fellow citizens: I stand here today humbled by the task before us, grateful for the trust you have bestowed, mindful of the sacrifices borne by our ancestors. I thank President Bush for his service to our nation, as well as the generosity and cooperation he has shown throughout this transition.

Forty-four Americans have now taken the presidential oath. The words have been spoken during rising tides of prosperity and the still waters of peace. Yet, every so often the oath is taken amidst gathering clouds and raging storms. At these moments, America has carried on not simply because of the skill or vision of those in high office, but because We the People have remained faithful to the ideals of our forbearers, and true to our founding documents.

So it has been. So it must be with this generation of Americans.

That we are in the midst of crisis is now well understood. Our nation is at war, against a far–reaching network of violence and hatred. Our economy is badly weakened, a consequence of greed and irresponsibility on the part of some, but also our collective failure to make hard choices and prepare the nation for a new age. Homes have been lost; jobs shed; businesses shuttered. Our health care is too costly; our schools fail too many; and each day brings further evidence that the ways we use energy strengthen our adversaries and threaten our planet.

These are the indicators of crisis, subject to data and statistics. Less measurable but no less profound is a sapping of confidence across our land — a nagging fear that America's decline is inevitable, and that the next generation must lower its sights.

Today I say to you that the challenges we face are real. They are serious and they are many. They will not be met easily or in a short span of time. But know this, America — they will be met.

On this day, we gather because we have chosen hope over fear, unity of purpose over conflict and discord.
On this day, we come to proclaim an end to the petty grievances and false promises, the recriminations and worn out dogmas, that for far too long have strangled our politics.

We remain a young nation, but in the words of Scripture, the time has come to set aside childish things. The time has come to reaffirm our enduring spirit; to choose our better history; to carry forward that precious gift, that noble idea, passed on from generation to generation: the God–given promise that all are equal, all are free, and all deserve a chance to pursue their full measure of happiness.

In reaffirming the greatness of our nation, we understand that greatness is never a given. It must be earned. Our journey has never been one of short–cuts or settling for less. It has not been the path for the faint-hearted — for those who prefer leisure over work, or seek only the pleasures of riches and fame. Rather, it has been the risk–takers, the doers, the makers of things — some celebrated but more often men and women obscure in their labor, who have carried us up the long, rugged path towards prosperity and freedom.

For us, they packed up their few worldly possessions and traveled across oceans in search of a new life.

For us, they toiled in sweatshops and settled the West; endured the lash of the whip and plowed the hard earth.

For us, they fought and died, in places like Concord and Gettysburg; Normandy and Khe Sahn.

Time and again these men and women struggled and sacrificed and worked till their hands were raw so that we might live a better life. They saw America as bigger than the sum of our individual ambitions; greater than all the differences of birth or wealth or faction.

This is the journey we continue today. We remain the most prosperous, powerful nation on Earth. Our workers are no less productive than when this crisis began. Our minds are no less inventive, our goods and services no less needed than they were last week or last month or last year. Our capacity remains undiminished. But our time of standing pat, of protecting narrow interests and putting off unpleasant decisions — that time has surely passed. Starting today, we must pick ourselves up, dust ourselves off, and begin again the work of remaking America.

For everywhere we look, there is work to be done. The state of the economy calls for action, bold and swift, and we will act — not only to create new jobs, but to lay a new foundation for growth. We will build the roads and bridges, the electric grids and digital lines that feed our commerce and bind us together. We will restore science to its rightful place, and wield technology's wonders to raise health care's quality and lower its cost. We will harness the sun and the winds and the soil to fuel our cars and run our factories. And we will transform our schools and colleges and universities to meet the demands of a new age. All this we can do. And all this we will do.

Now, there are some who question the scale of our ambitions — who suggest that our system cannot tolerate too many big plans. Their memories are short. For they have forgotten what this country has already done; what free men and women can achieve when imagination is joined to common purpose, and necessity to courage.

What the cynics fail to understand is that the ground has shifted beneath them — that the stale political arguments that have consumed us for so long no longer apply. The question we ask today is not whether our government is too big or too small, but whether it works — whether it helps families find jobs at a decent wage, care they can afford, a retirement that is dignified. Where the answer is yes, we intend to move forward. Where the answer is no, programs will end. And those of us who manage the public's dollars will be held to account — to spend wisely, reform bad habits, and do our business in the light of day — because only then can we restore the vital trust between a people and their government.

Nor is the question before us whether the market is a force for good or ill. Its power to generate wealth and expand freedom is unmatched, but this crisis has reminded us that without a watchful eye, the market can spin out of control — and that a nation cannot prosper long when it favors only the prosperous. The success of our economy has always depended not just on the size of our Gross Domestic Product, but on the reach of our prosperity; on our ability to extend opportunity to every willing heart — not out of charity, but because it is the surest route to our common good.

As for our common defense, we reject as false the choice between our safety and our ideals. Our Founding Fathers, faced with perils we can scarcely imagine, drafted a charter to assure the rule of law and the rights of man, a charter expanded by the blood of generations. Those ideals still light the world, and we will not give them up for expedience's sake. And so to all other peoples and governments who are watching today, from the grandest capitals to the small village where my father was born: know that America is a friend of each nation and every man, woman, and child who seeks a future of peace and dignity, and that we are ready to lead once more.

Recall that earlier generations faced down fascism and communism not just with missiles and tanks, but with sturdy alliances and enduring convictions. They understood that our power alone cannot protect us, nor does it entitle us to do as we please. Instead, they knew that our power grows through its prudent use; our security emanates from the justness of our cause, the force of our example, the tempering qualities of humility and restraint.

We are the keepers of this legacy. Guided by these principles once more, we can meet those new threats that demand even greater effort — even greater cooperation and understanding between nations. We will begin to responsibly leave Iraq to its people, and forge a hard–earned peace in Afghanistan. With old friends and former foes, we will work tirelessly to lessen the nuclear threat, and roll back the specter of a warming planet. We will not apologize for our way of life, nor will we waver in its defense, and for those who seek to advance their aims by inducing terror and slaughtering innocents, we say to you now that our spirit is stronger and cannot be broken; you cannot outlast us, and we will defeat you.

For we know that our patchwork heritage is a strength, not a weakness. We are a nation of Christians and Muslims, Jews and Hindus — and non–believers. We are shaped by every language and culture, drawn from every end of this Earth; and because we have tasted the bitter swill of civil war and segregation, and emerged from that dark chapter stronger and more united, we cannot help but believe that the old hatreds shall someday pass; that the lines of tribe shall soon dissolve; that as the world grows smaller, our common humanity shall reveal itself; and that America must play its role in ushering in a new era of peace.

To the Muslim world, we seek a new way forward, based on mutual interest and mutual respect. To those leaders around the globe who seek to sow conflict, or blame their society's ills on the West — know that your people will judge you on what you can build, not what you destroy. To those who cling to power through corruption and deceit and the silencing of dissent, know that you are on the wrong side of history; but that we will extend a hand if you are willing to unclench your fist.

To the people of poor nations, we pledge to work alongside you to make your farms flourish and let clean waters flow; to nourish starved bodies and feed hungry minds. And to those nations like ours that enjoy relative plenty, we say we can no longer afford indifference to suffering outside our borders; nor can we consume the world's resources without regard to effect. For the world has changed, and we must change with it.

As we consider the road that unfolds before us, we remember with humble gratitude those brave Americans who, at this very hour, patrol far–off deserts and distant mountains. They have something to tell us today, just as the fallen heroes who lie in Arlington whisper through the ages. We honor them not only because they are guardians of our liberty, but because they embody the spirit of service; a willingness to find meaning in something greater than themselves. And yet, at this moment — a moment that will define a generation — it is precisely this spirit that must inhabit us all.

For as much as government can do and must do, it is ultimately the faith and determination of the American people upon which this nation relies. It is the kindness to take in a stranger when the levees break, the selflessness of workers who would rather cut their hours than see a friend lose their job which sees us through our darkest hours. It is the firefighter's courage to storm a stairway filled with smoke, but also a parent's willingness to nurture a child, that finally decides our fate.

Our challenges may be new. The instruments with which we meet them may be new. But those values upon which our success depends — hard work and honesty, courage and fair play, tolerance and curiosity, loyalty and patriotism — these things are old. These things are true. They have been the quiet force of progress throughout our history. What is demanded then is a return to these truths. What is required of us now is a new era of responsibility — a recognition, on the part of every American, that we have duties to ourselves, our nation, and the world, duties that we do not grudgingly accept but rather seize gladly, firm in the knowledge that there is nothing so satisfying to the spirit, so defining of our character, than giving our all to a difficult task.

This is the price and the promise of citizenship.

This is the source of our confidence — the knowledge that God calls on us to shape an uncertain destiny.

This is the meaning of our liberty and our creed — why men and women and children of every race and every faith can join in celebration across this magnificent mall, and why a man whose father less than sixty years ago might not have been served at a local restaurant can now stand before you to take a most sacred oath.

So let us mark this day with remembrance, of who we are and how far we have traveled. In the year of America's birth, in the coldest of months, a small band of patriots huddled by dying campfires on the shores of an icy river. The capital was abandoned. The enemy was advancing. The snow was stained with blood. At a moment when the outcome of our revolution was most in doubt, the father of our nation ordered these words be read to the people: "Let it be told to the future world...that in the depth of winter, when nothing but hope and virtue could survive...that the city and the country, alarmed at one common danger, came forth to meet [it]."

America. In the face of our common dangers, in this winter of our hardship, let us remember these timeless words. With hope and virtue, let us brave once more the icy currents, and endure what storms may come. Let it be said by our children's children that when we were tested we refused to let this journey end, that we did not turn back nor did we falter; and with eyes fixed on the horizon and God's grace upon us, we carried forth that great gift of freedom and delivered it safely to future generations."

Barack Obama 20 JAN 2009

Sorry I have no video at this time, will post later.

Frostbane

Ma and Pop, Jackson

2009-01-18T05:57:00.000-05:00

Ma and Pop always taught me the right thing. I'm sure most of the bad things that happened to me were because I refused to listen. My parents gave me MANY happy memories of my child hood. Even when it was bad it wasn't that bad. They got book smarts and street smarts. They were strict when I needed it and supportive of everything I ever did. They are still together.
They like to party hardy!!!!
I love my parents and I am happy to be their son. Hopefully, I will make them happy that I'm their son too.
P.S. I am the winner of the first grandson award.!!!

Epiphany

2009-01-15T14:07:00.000-05:00

Just had an epiphany. Maybe they are the way they are because they were raised by a single mother who was alone. Maybe they were more like companinons. They didnt come with instruction manuals. They didnt turn out bad. They make their mother proud. They will continue to. I pray that I did nothing to ruin THAT relationship. How much damage could I have possibly done?...I dont know.....

2 Mommies

2009-01-14T23:52:00.000-05:00

My mother just made it to Hawaii to meet wifey K.
I hope they are getting along.
I think they will.
I'm glad to have a family that sticks with me.
We actually have a huge family.
Most people who marry interracial like me have told me that they were practically disowned. Not me. Thank the Lord.
Anyway, I'm in Germany on my way back to Iraq.
I will post pics as soon as I get the chance.
Until then GOD BLESS.

LOVE

2009-01-13T13:53:00.000-05:00

LOVE

Compromise, Promise, Duty, Desire, Loyalty, Friendship, Open heart, Listening,

Protecting, Respect, Honor, Kiss, Hug, Togertherness, Companionship, Understanding,

Empathy, Selflessness, Celebration, Tenderness, Gentle, Kind, Beautiful, Caring, Honesty,

Sympathy, Responsibility, Sex, Marriage, Babies, Home, Heart,

Trust, Happiness,

Lesson

2009-01-13T07:47:00.000-05:00

No matter how hard I try, I just cannot seem to get it right.

Maybe I am trying TOO hard

My new lessons

2009-01-06T12:26:00.000-05:00

After all she has been through, I will never yell and argue anymore.
I promise to try my best to understand where she is coming from.
Her happiness is my happiness which in turn is OUR happiness.

I wish I could give her all she has ever dreamed.
Never will I demean or critisize.
I loved her before I met her.
We have been together a very long time.
Now is not the time to change into an asshole.
She may not be happy with us at the moment, but this will change.
She will have time to herslef.
I will not be another stress in her life.
I will be happy to come home because she is happy that I'm coming home.
She is not alone.
I will always love her.
I will not take out my frustraions against her.
I will not vent my stress against her.
I will always love her.

Calling on him today and forever more.

2009-01-06T11:28:00.000-05:00

Dear Lord, I need you now because I am full of stress and anxiety. Reading your Word brings comfort, as I ask you to come and take my heavy burdens. I take each burden, one by one, and lay them at your feet. Please carry them for me so that I don't have to. Replace them with your humble and gentle yoke so that I will find rest for my soul today. I receive your gift of peace of mind and heart. Thank you that I can lie down tonight in peace and sleep. I know that you, Lord, will keep me safe. I am not afraid because you are always with me. Please keep me daily, Lord, in your perfect peace. Amen Dear Heavenly Father,

Thank you for this life, for the gift of love, and the blessing of our marriage. We give you praise for the joy you've poured into our hearts through this love, for the contentment of family, and the happiness of our home. May we always treasure the experience of loving each other in this holy union. Help us to remain forever committed to our vows, those we made to each other, and to you, Lord. We will need your strength daily Lord, as we live together with the goal of following and serving you. Develop within is us the character of your Son, Jesus, that we might love each other with the love he demonstrated—with patience, respect, understanding, honesty, forgiveness and kindness. Let us always be a support to one another—a friend to listen and encourage, a refuge from the storm, and most importantly, a warrior in prayer. Holy Spirit, guide us through the difficult moments of life and comfort us in our grief. May our lives together bring glory to you, our Savior, and testify of your love.

In Jesus' Name.

Amen.

Dear Heavenly Father,

Thank you for these treasured children of mine. Although you have entrusted them to me, I know they belong to you. Help me as a parent, Lord, with my weaknesses and imperfections. Give me strength and godly wisdom to raise these children after your Holy Word. Please supply what I lack. Keep my children walking on the path that leads to eternal life. Help them to overcome the temptations in this world and the sin that would so easily entangle them.

Dear God, send your Holy Spirit daily to lead and guide them. Ever assist them to grow in wisdom and stature, in grace and knowledge, in kindness, compassion and love. May they serve you faithfully with his whole heart devoted to you. May they discover the joy of your presence through daily relationship with your Son, Jesus.

Help me never to hold on too tightly to these children, nor neglect my responsiblities before you as a parent. Lord, let my committment to raise this child for the glory of your name cause his life to forever testify of your faithfulness.

In Jesus' name I pray.

Amen.

I can't make it alone anymore.
I fall to my knees,
Lord, I give up. Forgive me.
I've come to the place,
Where you are is what I need.
I have no one to blame.
I give up, take away these sins.
Too long the road I've walked,
Carrying in my heart,
Those things I should cast aside.
This is where I give up.
Here I am, waiting for your love;
Waiting for your embrace,
Giving my soul and might to you.
Forgive me.

The Center of my Universe

2009-01-06T03:46:00.000-05:00

It is amazing how things change. No matter how much you actually do for some people. They only care to be the center of the universe. All the time you had felt wasted once they feel they are not the center. Every lesson, every quality moment. Unbelievable the things that can come out of someone's mouth when all they care about is themselves. I see hard lessons in the future.
For me and for others. Eventually maybe those"sun's" do wake up and smell the coffee. I can only pray that it isn't too late.
I am back in Iraq if you were curious. Pray for me!!!!!! and for my Family!!!!
Much love, GOD bless

Arrival back in Iraqi FOB

2009-01-05T13:09:00.000-05:00

I just made it back. I was stuck in another base for about 4 days. Everything is going ok so far. It will go good regardless of what happens. Did you read the news about the new Iraqi-American SOFA agreement? Iraq is much quieter than I remember. Anyway, just letting you know that I am safe. I love you Kathy if you read this.

Here are some recent news links:

2009-01-04T01:06:00.000-05:00

U.S. Military takes the first steps to quit Iraq.
Seriously?

Obama considering expanding jobless benefits
Uh...ok

Bushisms over the years
Yep!

Warner Bros. blackout "dark knight" from Chinese theaters
What the heck??

Mexican Warlock predicts US troops on Mexican border
This one is funny as hell.

Iraq assumes authority of Basra airport
Sweet.

Obama, man of the year
Woot!

Fact Sheet: The Strategic Framework Agreement and the Security Agreement with Iraq
Read this! Concerns developments in Iraq.

And heres some funny-ness........

Kathy Ann Jackson

2009-01-03T11:44:00.000-05:00

For a loving wife who just went through more than I can imagine.
I love you very much.

I know I have hard time getting it right, but I'll get it right!!!
Keep on doing what you do.
I love you and think about you constantly.
Don't think otherwise.
I love you.
You have my heart in your hands.

E.R.J

2008-12-30T15:25:00.000-05:00

Here's the little guy. He has a gotten a little bigger. His whole existence so far was a struggle but, it seems ok now. He is now more stable and I am heading back to Iraq. We had a good Christmas and Thanksgiving. I thank GOD for making it possible for the family to be together. Although there has been plenty of fussing and fighting as no one can wrestle attention for Eli..lol
Being married...WHEW!........I don't know what to say yet, but Im sure there are plenty of guys out there that are going to be like " I told you so". I can write anything I want here no one reads this shit...lol.....Anyway...Happy holidays!!!! and GOD bless
Don't take that marriage comment wrong, it is good to be married to someone you love.

Update....

2008-12-15T05:14:00.000-05:00

Lil Elijah is still in the hospital. He has gained weight and is off of all life support machines minus the heart scanner. He really is pretty damn cute. I never thought he would come out looking that kool.
He's doing ok as soon as he learns to drink out the the bottle he will be home. I am so in love with this kid its amazing. I want more but, I dont know if I can go through all of that again...lol....
I am confident it will all be good. Kathy is WAY different. As soon as we got married, she changed I hope its cuz of the baby but if not I will need new hobbies.

Watch the news. The U.S. made a new defense agreement with Iraq, even though we will be on our way to Afghanistan, Iraq is almost over.

Planet Zion

Prayer

For she and I

My lists for life.

Someone to lean on

Moments

Today.

Prayer

Hope for Troubled Christian Marriages - 5 Tips for Stability and Sanity

Pray big time for us...

Jackson Family Updates.....

“There is no love without forgiveness, and there is no forgiveness without love.” Bryan H. Mcgill

Danelle, Kathy Together after all these years.

Kathy and her sisters share a birthday cake!

Lala, Elijah, Raven and Ramir

Going home July 2nd

Spartacus, Blood and Sand. The best series I have ever seen.

Easter!!!

A family is this. by Makenzee Ryan

Rainbow

Obama's new Health Care Plan.

After The Strom

DIFFICULTIES

E.R.J. first Birthday!!!!

E.R.J. on strings

E.R.J. in bath

At home with the family

Awww....on the way home, And what I have been up to

Happy Babyboy

Jackson Family Crest

Been dreamin....

Prayers in times of weariness

Hello, Its ELIJAH!!!!!!

Always, We pull through.

MAYBE

One- sided Struggle.

The Wounded Heart

The Wounded Heart

Definition:

Hurts Never Just Go Away!

The Ways People Respond

God's Provision

Steps Of Preparation

How To Receive Healing

Your Ministry Of Healing

Steps to Emotional Healing, (Good read)

Elijah Robert Jackson

If you really read this.....

A nice dusty day in Bayji, Iraq

Easter

Today

A Natural High

WTF is with Iraqi men?

And now from the White House. Give it a try its a good read. Check out the links at the bottom too.

Responsibly Ending the War in Iraq

Responsible Removal of Combat Brigades

Sustained Diplomacy

Comprehensive Engagement Across the Region

EXCUSES

Overwhelming Waves

I am here.

How you know

Reduce your expenses, from Wikihow

How to Reduce Expenses

Steps

Tips

Warnings

Related wikiHows

Sources and Citations

My good luck charms

Kathy and Eliajh

Humor, GI joe

Enlightened?

Major Milestone

A major milestone

Give up now?

Quotes to inspire and Motivate

"People often say that motivation doesn't Last. Well, neither does bathing That's why we recommend it daily!" ~ Zig Ziglar

Never Give Up,

Things change

"People often say that motivation doesn't Last. Well, neither does bathing
That's why we recommend it daily!" ~ Zig Ziglar