Why Is American Politics Disgusting?

   I know what you are thinking as you contemplate my question. You are thinking, "Well, at least we're not killing one another!" Yes, I guess we can be thankful for that but as a Christian American I am completely disgusted at what has been going on.

   You see, I fully expect liberals who have no real basis for morality to lie about others. I expect them to accuse falsely and I expect them to commit character assassination. After all, most social liberals are also religious liberals or irreligious altogether, and they can excuse themselves based upon their own conceptions of what is right or wrong. They don't believe in absolute truth so they only "use" the word of God when it fits their agenda but they don't really believe it. They are like the pretentious prophets of old of who the Bible says, "Woe unto them that, and good evil; that put darkness for light, and light for darkness; that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!" (Isaiah 5:20) They practice situation ethics which lends itself to all kinds of sophistry. I have no respect for this kind of person of which many are in the United States Senate, a few in the House of Representatives, and, let's not forget the White House! I personally believe the present administration is filled with professional sophists!

    BUT, while I expect this kind of behaviour from the liberals, I HATE to see it among professed conservatives, especially when they claim to be "religious". Why do we accept lies from our politicians? Why is it o.k? What happened to "Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets." (Matthew 7:12) And, not only do some of our candidates lie through their teeth, but so many of us seem to be willing accomplices because we buy into their lies and the next thing we know there goes another good man or woman cast aside because we're so gullible! It seems to me that, while we are ready to cast one aside because of accusations which is usually nothing more than false witness, we don't seem to mind a candidate lying through his teeth!

     I was not raised in a Christian home, but I was raised to tell the truth. Of course everyone lies sometimes. I mean, you may not feel so well one day but when a friend says, "How are you today?" you say "Fine". You just lied! And don't get me wrong, I don't excuse any lie, but when a public servant, or one proposes to be lies about his beliefs, his intents, or his background that's the kind of lie that makes a difference to my life and yours and it is unacceptable!

   Now I don't expect the irreligious to get it, but, I for one, am sick and tired of all of the dirty playing that's been going on. The major news networks are willing accomplices in the matter and sometimes the instigators as they were recently toward Newt Gingrich at a debate. And, sometimes these lies come from political activists from the Democrat side, but too often they come from the candidate's camps and that's what is REALLY disgusting!

   I remember when candidate Obama was running, all of the lies he told, all of the false promises, all of the smug appearances he made. I said,then, he is a liar and my mind has not changed a bit. How many lies does one have to tell to be a liar? If any one of the candidates tells an intentional untruth, then, he has lied, and what does that make him? And if he is a liar now will he be different when he is in office?      

   I can forgive moral failures because I have failed so much in my own life. I don't expect anyone to be perfect and the worst thing anyone can do to offend me is to lie to me. When a man or woman is running for political office and he lies intentionally, he has crossed the line with me. Now a person may tell an untruth while believing it to be the truth. I think that happened to President G.W. Bush concerning weapons of mass destruction. I believe he was fed false information and he stated it as truth. I think it was wrong for some to call him a liar. He did not intentionally lie, in my opinion.
   That's why in this primary season, I cannot support either Ron Paul or Mitt Romney. If they want to run mean hearted ads it's ok with me but they must be true. Sometimes telling the truth can be seen as being mean spirited; I can live with that. What I CAN'T live with is intentional misinformation. But Jesus said to the hypocrites of His day, "Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it." (John 8:42) Character assassination is murder! So now what we have is murderous liars!

   We presently have a LIAR for a president; I don't want another son of Satan! 

65 Is Just A Number!

                                                                              

   Well, tomorrow, January 28, I will turn 65 years old. For those of you reading this who've already passed that number, please don't tell me how I should feel!

   I remember how I dreaded turning 50. I really thought my life would change dramatically when that happened. It didn't! Then came 60 and I dreaded that number too. I mean, I always considered 60+ as old. Now that I'm entering that 65 number I don't consider it old at all. My mother is 87 and one of my best friends is 84 and still doing all of the things he likes to do...just a little slower :)

    As I think about it 65 is just a number and though it is considered retirement age for many people, others consider it an age of opportunity. I knew a man who was a veterinarian until around that age and then he became a lawyer. He was a joy to be around! I'm not sure how a person is supposed to feel at 65 but I feel pretty good! I mean, I think I'm in relatively good health. I hardly ever get colds or the flu. I can do practically anything I want to do. I don't run as fast as I did when I was younger, but I don't really want to. I don't jump from any place higher than two feet from the ground, but then, I really don't want to do that either! But I don't look at 65 with dread because I've learned: 1. It's going to happen unless the Lord determines otherwise; 2. It's only a number and it really doesn't mean anything. I develop a foot problem about once a year that hurts like the dickens for a few days and up to a month, but other than that, hey, I'm good to go!

  I've known some very disabled people who are young and I've known some very spry people who are "old". I've known people who have been ravaged by disease at a relatively young age, and I've known people who have escaped such things even in their 80's. I am convinced that, though we slow down a bit and we may develop some plumbing issues, we grow hair where we didn't, and we acquire wrinkles (though I have been blessed in that area), turning 65 is really no big deal other than, for many Social Security checks will begin providing you don't draw early.

   Maybe it's different for men, to some degree, than it is for women. Biologically men tend to mellow a bit and women tend to become more assertive. Hormonal balance kind of reverses for both sexes but it's o.k. 'cause by the time it happens you feel pretty well prepared for it.

   My wife and I adopted children later in life so our children are still unmarried (so far) and there are no grandchildren. Maybe when they have children I will start to feel old but until that happens I've

got my fishing poles cleaned up, the ice auger is ready to go, and I'm ready to hit the ice! So #65 step aside, I'm rolling over you!

What To Do For A Sore Throat!

                                                                               

This is the time of year when either one of my kids, or someone I know will ask what to do for a sore throat. Let's face it, most people don't keep pharmaceuticals on hand for emergencies like this and most people don't know how to quickly relieve a sore throat with things you may have in your spice rack.

  As an herbal practitioner I generally have things like slippery elm or marshmallow root on hand for such occasions but most people don't keep these things readily available. I make a lozenge out of these herbs which help soothe a sore throat. If I didn't have a lozenge available I would just suck on some of the powder of licorice root, marshmallow root, or slippery elm.

   Most people keep honey on hand but they don't really keep natural honey, I mean unprocessed honey, and something is lost in the processing. Processed honey will still work but not as well. Honey is a great thing to keep around because of its antiseptic and antibiotic qualities. Raw honey contains vitamins and minerals necessary for healing so it's a great application for wounds and burns. It's also helpful for sore throats. In fact a mixture of equal parts of Turmeric (yes, that stuff you use for cooking) and honey can be very helpful for a sore throat. If I didn't have Turmeric I would probably use Ginger in the mixture.

    Let me say that sore throats can be viral or bacterial so long term treatment will vary depending on the type of sore throat. Your sore throat may be a common sore throat or it may be caused by toxins or irritation from smoking or breathing in toxic materials. Sore throats MAY be from a more serious illness or from medical treatment. So, keep in mind that I am talking about a normal sore throat that may accompany a cold or flu or some bacterial infection.

    Also, let me say that various teas can be made that may prove helpful using some of those things I have previously mentioned or with lemon, or Apple Cider Vinegar, salt water, or even onion juice. You can find lots of herbal remedies online, some more helpful than others.

BUT WHAT DO DO WHEN YOU NEED IMMEDIATE RELIEF?

     Now, suppose you have a very sore throat. I mean the kind of sore throat that really hurts and makes it hard to even swallow. You will NOT WANT to do what I am about to tell you, but if you do it, you will most probably find almost immediate relief. It's only a temporary relief so you'll need to do it again before the pain returns, followed by the treatment afore mentioned. What is it? CAYENNE!

     Yes, you read that correctly! I know what you're thinking. You're thinking "That stuff is hot!" EXACTLY! Try putting about 1/4 tsp. of Cayenne in a couple ounces of warm water and gargle it. It MAY burn for a few seconds but relief will come suddenly. You will notice this quick relief. It may not take the sore throat totally away but it will make it a lot better! On, the other hand, depending on how bad the sore throat is it may be totally relieved.                            

    I got a call a few days ago from one of my church members who had heard me talk about this treatment and she asked about it. Her daughter had come home from work with a very sore throat which made it difficult to swallow. I told her what to do and she did it, bringing relief to her daughter. I had her repeat the process in the next hour and that was the end of it. I have done the same thing with a couple of my kids so I know it works. I must confess that, since I just don't get sore throats that I have never tried it on myself but I can guarantee that if I had to do it I would.

   I'm not really sure of exactly WHY this works but I know that it draws blood to the sore area and probably lymph which moves waste material from the area which in turn means that inflammation is being reduced.

    I hope this is found to be helpful as I personally have found so many of these very simple remedies to be, not only safe and  healing, but easy on the pocket book as well!

NOTE: This information is for information purposes only and does not claim to diagnose or cure any disease. It is a testimonial of my personal experiences and information I have gathered.

Your Headache And You

    

     First off I want to admit to you that I hardly ever get headaches and as far back as I can remember I can probably count the number of headaches on one hand. But I have known people who get headaches often, and sometimes very severely so I want to share some things I have learned and used to help others. I highly recommend a course from Tree of Light that shows how to deal with numerous heath problems. I think every mom and dad should have it because I have used so many of these techniques and found them really helpful. Steven Horne teaches the course and it used to be called "Dr. Mom-Dr.Dad" but I think it's called "The Fundamentals of Natural Healing" now.

     The first thing we need to understand is that there are different kinds of headaches. All headaches are NOT created equal and all headaches are a symptom, NOT the cause! You can deal with the symptom by taking medicinal drugs but you'll have to deal with it again and again. Or, you can find the root cause of the headache, eliminate it, and thus eliminate the headaches! 

     The first of these headaches is what we sometimes call a tension headache and it is vasoconstrictive, which means that insufficient blood is getting to the brain. They are rightly called tension headaches because when we tense up, especially in the neck and shoulders due to some stress, we tend to constrict the amount of blood that's getting to the head area. It makes sense to me that blue eyed people would probably suffer more from this type of headache because they already tend to have a slow moving lymph system. I also believe that poor digestion, especially of fats, lends itself to vasoconstrive headaches because people who don't digest fats well tend to have a lot of tight muscles and soreness around the neck and shoulders. These tight muscles tend to pinch off the blood flow to the head and cause inflammation. If the lymph system isn't working at optimum speed you end up with a tension headache.

     There are manual ways of relieving this kind of headache and I have personally used these techniques with success. I can't describe them fully hear but it is basically a massage of the neck and shoulders with some light fast strokes to aid the lymph system. There are also herbs that can be of help. I have found that an equal mixture of lobelia extract, capsicum extract, and 1/3 mixture of peppermint oil rubbed over the area and worked in can bring relief. I've also seen it work simply rubbed on. Internally, herbs that are anti-spasmodic: Lobelia, Cramp Bark, Black Cohosh Root, can be helpful as well. Magnesium can be helpful as well.

NOTE: I do not use reflexology myself but I am aware of and believe in its use. If you are into reflexology a good practitioner could probably help.

    BUT, what we really have to work on is the cause. We must find what is causing the stress that is, in turn, causing the tension, and remove it if at all possible. If it is a situation where the stress cannot be removed then, at the very least, time MUST be found for relief and relaxation. Sometimes an Epsom's bath with perhaps a bit of Lavender oil can be helpful.

     The second type of headache is vasodilative where too much blood is getting to the head area. This is more of a true migraine headache. When a person has a vasodilative headache they may not want to be touched so you would not want to attempt a massage here. There is a technique, which I have not personally tried but which Steven Horne says often works, but I won't get into it here because you would probably think it too weird. I must say though, that I have had great success using the techniques he has taught but have not had the occasion to try this one. It is basically a manual way of casting off excess energy around the head area.

     Vasodilative or Migraine headaches are usually caused by a liver that is overloaded with toxins so the best approach is a liver cleanse! There can be allergic triggers that bring it on including alcohol, aged foods, chocolate, citrus, and so forth, but the main cause is liver congestion. Herbs like Dandelion Root, Burdock Root, and Yellow Dock can go a long way as blood and liver cleansers. There is an herb called Feverfew which must be taken daily as a preventative. It will NOT be helpful after you're already suffering from this type of headache. But taken regularly can help prevent them.

    A third type of headache is what we call a sinus headache which is caused by congestion of the sinus cavities and produces inflammation and pressure. What you REALLY need to know about this type of problem is that it is a symptom brought on by a CAUSE!

     The probable cause is a congested colon! Yes, you heard me right! Our bodies have several avenues of elimination and when one is congested it will often use another avenue and in this case, most colon congestion causes suffering in the sinus'. We have respiratory, urinary, intestinal systems, and skin and when the intestinal system is having a problem it often results in respiratory problems or various skin conditions. If you go back to my last post, Seven Things Necessary....you will find the steps necessary to improve this condition.

    As for sinus headaches and temporary relief, massage of the sinus cavities, internal decongestants (natural of course), vapor inhalation with eucalyptus oil, pine oil, or lavender oil can be helpful. I have even used boiled yarrow. There is another remedy which is not the most pleasant but which will work, and that is to put bayberry root bark powder into a container, shake it, and breath in the dust through your nose. Be prepared for a bomb to go off for a few seconds and then the draining will begin.
    I posted this and then it dawned on me that I left something out and that is the "You" of the title.
You see, You are not meant to have headaches! But the headache is a signal that something is wrong with YOU! Yes, the headache hurts but it hurts because of inflammation or irritation that has occurred because there is something wrong in you. It can be exposure to toxins, which, by the way, is common to all of us. It can be that you're not spending enough time in God's word, prayer, meditation and that stress is piling up. It may be that you are not dealing with the pressures of life well and you may need some help emotionally and spiritually. It may be that you have not taken good care of your body and that you have an intestinal imbalance, whatever the cause it is up to YOU to discover what's wrong with YOU. If you are close enough to come to me I can probably help but seek to follow the advice I gave in my last post. Spend time with God and people who are positive. Negative people can cause SO MUCH STRESS! Take it upon yourself to get to know YOU!

     What I have just shared with you is from things I have learned from others, experienced firsthand, and used with my family and friends. It is NOT what you will hear from your doctor and, as you know, it is not an attempt to diagnose or heal. It is for information purposes only. May God bless you Richly!

(Illustrations borrowed)

Seven Things Necessary For Good Health In Today's World

     Being a natural health advocate I seem to get a lot of advertisements in the mail promoting this product or that as being the answer for various health problems. I also see, from time to time, postings regarding various herbs or vitamins, etc. that promote health as well. But the thing that is ignored is the fact that if your digestive system is weak the benefits of these herbs will be either reduced greatly or they will have no benefit at all. So, I'm going to give you seven things that are necessary for good health in today's world, especially in the United States.

     #1. Enzymes- Most people, especially people over age 30, or so, have weakened a digestive system because the production of Hydrochloric Acid gradually diminishes. Food is not chewed correctly most of the time and digestion begins with the chewing process. Actually the process begins with sight and smell when the mouth begins to water, but mastication (chewing) is when the enzymes begin their work. So, beginning with sight and smell, then through mastication, on to the stomach where enzymes do their work, and then finally into the duodenum (the upper part of the small intestine) where the gall bladder and pancreas secrete enzymes to further the process of absorption. People hardly ever eat a meal without a cold drink to wash food down so whatever digestion is taking place is dampened down. Most people don't eat raw foods so the active enzymes are cooked out of the food. So, when those vitamins and herbs are consumed they tend to be of little benefit. It is NOT the fault of the vitamin or herb, but of a failing digestive system. So, what to do?

    Digestive Enzymes are the answer! Because of the failing digestive system, even of young children, in today's world, digestive enzymes are needed. Enzymes break down food and there are enzymes that break down proteins, enzymes that break down fats, enzymes that break down carbohydrates, enzymes that break down plant material, and so forth. Often these will end with the suffix -ace, such as Lipase (for fats) or protease (for proteins). I recommend a product that includes several of these for a full spectrum of digestive helps. In this way when you take your supplement, whatever it is, you can be confident it's being absorbed so it can do its work! Let me say again, if this process is not efficient then you can take as many supplements as you want and you'll basically be filling your sewer!

   #2. Minerals- One of the sad things that is happening in the United States is that our government, through regulations and the influences of multi-millionaires and other big business influence peddlers, are squeezing out the small farmers. This means that large farming operations and big business are using, not only GMO's and toxic additives to our foods, but they have been depleting the soil of its mineral content. So, that vegetable that your grand parents consumed, either home grown or purchased from a farmer's market, had far more nutritional value than that which you buy from your grocery shelves today. So, not only are you having to deal with those genetically modified foods but you're dealing with toxins from pesticides as well, add to that the lack of nutrients, and you will find that you are not getting enough necessary minerals to gain optimum health. So, what to do?

Colloidal Minerals

   Mineral supplements is the answer! Most people, providing they are digesting properly, really do get most of the Vitamins necessary for life, but most of us are not getting enough minerals. Supplements are available which can provide the necessary minerals we need for optimum health. There are reputable sources from which to purchase these supplements. I have understood that a combination of Alfalfa, Kelp, and Yellow Dock, and Dandelion can provide most of what we need.

    #3. Probriotics- Another very sad thing that has happened in our society is the promotion and use of antibiotics and other medicines that deplete the healthy flora in the intestines. When that flora is killed off we lose protection of the immune system, we become candidates for "leaky gut syndrome", we open ourselves for all kinds of disease because we have been systematically defeating ourselves through the use of pharmaceuticals. If you are a person who uses Nsaids often, if you have used antibiotics, and if you have been a meat eater that contains antibiotics and other treatments, you probably need a probriotic. Things like real fermented sauerkraut and yogurt have natural occurring probriotics but most people just don't eat enough naturally fermented sauerkraut, and the stuff you buy out of the can is not naturally fermented. So, what to do?    

     Probriotics come in various forms. Regardless of the form in which you get them, everybody needs them! I would look for a probriotic that contains several different families of healthy bacteria. I have seen acne clear up after a month of probriotic use. Other skin conditions and health concerns like sinus problems have been relieved through the use of probriotics in my experience.

    #4. Fiber- Our American diet is sorely lacking in good fiber. Fiber is necessary for intestinal peristalsis to do its work well. There are a lot of people walking around with three, four, or even five pounds of material stuck in their intestines! This is partially due to the lack of good flora in the intestines but it is equally true of the lack of fiber. Fiber helps to remove this material out of the body but it also helps remove the toxins this material carries. We can get this fiber through fruits, vegetables, and grains but I recommend the use of ground flax seed on a daily basis. It can be put in a drink or sprinkled in your salads. I even sprinkle it on scrabbled eggs. In any case, it aids the intestines in removing left over materials. It is also a good source of Omega 3. One of the biggest reasons we have dis-ease is that we don't eat enough fiber. You're just not going to get it in your hamburger and fries! You're not going to get it in you pizza and you're certainly not going to get it in your refined pasta.

    #5. Water- I won't spend much time here but most people simply don't drink water. Even coffee and tea won't do, alone. I know lots of people who drink canned or bottled substances like energy drinks or soda's. These people are doing great harm to themselves. Your body needs water, and if you want optimum health water is necessary. Water is necessary to every body system. The average person is about 70% water with a greater number in youth and a lesser number in old age. The lack of water can result in fatigue, muscle aches, low muscle tone, poor digestion, poor peristalsis, organ function and a host of other conditions that most people never think about. Of course you want to get your water from a healthy source and definitely don't drink treated water or tap water (unless it's from a clean well). Chemicals found in treated water like chlorine or bromine will set you up for a host of problems including plaque build up in your arteries. It is NOT the cholesterol that damages your arteries it is inflammation and scarring from things like chlorine that causes the damage. The cholesterol is just the body attempting to "fix the pot holes".

    So, water, good water, is necessary. A couple of times I have run across people who tell me they cannot drink water without throwing up. These are exceptional cases and I usually have them try some lemon or apple cidar vinegar to it. Sometimes this helps.     

     #6. Exercise- Exercise is important for a number of reasons. It helps the body's lymph system to do its work. It causes us to sweat which helps remove toxins from our bodies. It works the heart and circulatory system. It helps in digestion and it tones muscle. These are just a few reasons exercise is important. I have found that exercise helps me to control blood sugar. Exercise aids oxygen in getting into the cells and can help with depression and memory loss. It doesn't have to be a lot but it does have to be regular. They say it takes about 21 days to adopt a habit so try it, you might like it!

    #7 Sleep and Relaxation- We live in a very stressful society so we need relaxation. We need to take time to wind down. Finding an enjoyable hobby, prayer, meditation, relaxing baths or any number of things that don't cause more stress. You're not going to relieve stress going to a football game or hockey game! Don't equate fun and relaxation. I like to relax by playing one of my instruments or listening to relaxing music. Even piddling around in the garden is relaxing to me or sitting out on the ice waiting for a fish to come along. We are individuals and relaxation is unique to each of us.   

    Sleep is necessary for good health. Most healing takes place during sleep. Most adults need about 8 hours of sleep per night. If you are suffering from sleep disorder it is important that you deal with it. It has been said that every hour of sleep before midnight is worth two after and I believe it. We were designed to go to been at dark and arise at dawn. That's the way it's supposed to be and any time we neglect that design we are doing ourselves a disfavor!

    CONCLUSION: I could go on and talk about the importance of Omega 3's in our diets or why we should do an occasional liver cleanse, but for now, I just leave you with these seven things. If you will attempt to correct these 7 things I am convinced you will see improvement in the way you feel, your health, and your vitality.

I Am Me

    Regardless of your age or background, YOU are the sum total of your genetic makeup and the environment in which you live EXCEPT for the insinuation of God in your life. I am me and there is no other me. A couple of times I've been told that someone looks like me, or that I look like another. Being like someone is not being that someone and no matter how much you may desire to be another you are you, and you alone.

    The reason I say this is that I've been thinking about events of my life, people who have influenced me both in a good way and a bad, and experiences that have shaped my beliefs and opinions. Physically, and to some degree, emotionally, I am what my genetic makeup dictates, except for a few things I can control. For instance I have grey hair (which used to be brown) and I have no control over it. I have brown eyes and a reddish complexion and these things are a part of my genetic makeup. My general disposition is, in part, genetic, a part of my overall constitution, but much of it is shaped by the environment in which I grew up, in which I now live, and by those incidents during my life that helped shape me. I'm over weight, and that IS something I can control to a degree but, even that is a part of my genetic makeup.                                                        

 And, though I may have a genetic emotional disposition, that is as well, something I can control and something for which I am held responsible. This responsibility can be enforced through man made laws and definitely by God's laws for which every man is accountable. For those of us who know the Savior this is where we can be most thankful for grace!

    As a Natural Health enthusiast and practitioner I believe that we all have a physical and emotional constitution that is unique to each of us. In fact, I have, in the last few days, done assessments on individuals and simply "blown them away" by what I can tell about them by just looking at their eyes. So, for instance when the Psalmist writes, "I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made" (Psalm 139:14), I know that God designed me with my particular genetic code, which I must accept as a work of His creation.

   This constitution will dictate the physical stamina I will have in regards to what my body can handle when it comes to environmental toxins, recovery from illness, susceptibility to illness and so forth. Of course I can eat all the wrong things and it will have an effect, I can ignore healthy practices, and I can abuse myself and it will still have a result. You may know of someone who lived hard and careless and grew old and you might know someone who took relatively good care of himself and died young. Part of that is the strength of that individual constitution. BUT taking good care of ourselves will generally prolong life. Of course, I believe that ultimately God's will determines the length of life.                                                        

      Emotionally, our ability to cope is designed within each of us as well and it is good to know one's self and what our emotional status is. Things like prayer and meditation, taking a relaxing bath, or practicing a relaxing hobby can all be helpful. In Iridology the general emotional makeup of an individual can be interpreted correctly through examination of iris fibers, etc. Whether we are auditory or visual learners, for instance is within that genetic code. Whether we are predominantly emotional, analytical, kinesthetic is also, for the most part, within that constitution unique to each of us. Yet, when it comes to behavior we are each responsible and held accountable. The Bible says, "And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; And to knowledge temperance (self-control)"(1 Peter 1:5,6a) and again, "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law." (Galatians 5:22,23) Temperance is a fruit of the Spirit which should be manifested in every true Christian!                                           

     There is a spiritual dimension too! In my initial statement I said, "Regardless of your age or background, YOU are the sum total of your genetic makeup and the environment in which you live EXCEPT for the insinuation of God in your life.". So, even though we all have a genetic make up, a unique constitution that determines who we are as individuals born into this world, we ARE NOT , if we are Christians, predestined to be the sum total of that genetic make up, nor are we bound to be what our environment has shaped us to be BECAUSE a miracle of God performed within us, a second birth, which enables us to overcome every defect, every flaw, every strength, and every weakness, and that miracle has taken place with EVERY true Christian!

  So, while I may be genetically a weaker vessel than the next fellow, I am made strong by the presence of God in my life, by His indwelling Spirit, so that I will, in the end, be an overcomer! "Who is he thatovercometh the world, but he that believeth that Jesus is the Son of God?" (1 John 5:5) What it all boils down to is that we just simply don't have any excuse for any behavior that is forbidden by Scripture and we are expected and empowered to behave in those ways that are seemly and approved according to the Scripture! We cannot blame genetics!

   I am me, and you are you. I have learned a lot about people over my years both through the Christian ministry and in the study of human nature, both environmental and genetic and I can usually get a pretty good grip on a person's general personality by observing him/her BUT I am limited with the Christian because of that Spiritual dimension, that connection with God because at the point one becomes a Christian, even though the physical and emotional traits they are born with remain, the individual becomes a new creation, created in Christ Jesus, so whatever those physical and/or emotional traits are, they have been miraculously adapted to the New Creature! YOU, I hope!
"Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new." (2 Corinthians 5:17)

Social Security, Medicare & Grey (Gray) Hair

   Today has been a very frustrating day! It started off well but got progressively worse, only because I have been frustrated with Social Security since I turned 62. On the 28th of this month I will turn 65 and for a birthday present I got a nice bill from Medicare for $400.00 to be paid by the 25th.

   You see, according to the United States Government I am WAY too wealthy to receive full social security. Though most people are able to draw at age 65 for me it's age 66. And, since I make too much money I get penalized, so in reality I only receive Social Security deposits for about half of the year! I have to go through this for yet another year.

   Now, my frustration comes from the fact that until I reach that age of 66 I can only make a limited income. And, since Medicare Ins.began for me this month, and since I'm not receiving Social Security for X number of months I got this bill today that says I have to pay Medicare in advance or be penalized. Now, most of my life I have not been nearly as wealthy as the United States Government thinks I am so I never could afford health insurance. So, I'm thinking, o.k., they tell me that I'm getting Medicare because I'm turning 65 and that it will come out of my monthly deposit, even gave me a slight raise in Social Security benefits, which, by the way, get eaten up by the Medicare payment! So I start getting mail telling me that every thing is set and all I have to do is mail a card back in if I don't want it. So, why wouldn't I want it? What they didn't tell me is that because my deposits are being withheld for nearly half a year, I have to pay the Medicare Ins. in advance.

   So I asked, "Well, if I don't make the payment what happens?" , to which the lady replied, "You won't receive the benefit, plus you'll be penalized". So now I start thinking, "Wait a minute here!". The United States Government TOLD me that I would start receiving these benefits. I DID NOT  seek them; then they tell me that if I don't pay up I will be PENALIZED? What's with that?

   Now let me tell you what really ticks me off! I sat in the Social Security Office for well over an hour today. When I first went it there were about 10 people, two of which were ladies with grey hair and a man with grey hair. Only one of the ladies had an appointment and the gentleman was with a younger fellow who had the appointment. There were people who came and went; I probably saw about 25 people all in all and of those 25 who either had been to a window or were waiting to go to the window, counting myself, only three had grey hair and were of an age to draw social security. There were several young people and a few middle aged people but only three of us who I thought would be of an age to have earned Social Security. Do you get the picture? Something is wrong!

   I'm not judging anyone and I'm not even complaining about their need, I'm just saying that all of my life I have paid into Social Security but if I make a little too much Social Security fines me half of what I make. Others, who could not possibly have paid into Social Security were there either for Social Security or Medicare and that simply blows my mind! You see, if you make over $14,600.00 you are independently wealthy and the United States Government, through Social Security will penalize you $1 of every $2 you make, while others, are reaping the benefits of those who have paid the price!

  THERE! I GOT THAT OFF MY CHEST!

Your Mind and Your Health

"A merry heart doeth good like a medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bones." (Proverbs 17:22) I never cease to be amazed at the wisdom of God, especially in regard to His creation of the human species! He has built within us a system of healing that, given the proper nurture, is perfectly capable of completing its task. Have you ever cut a finger, say a paper cut, or even with a knife? In most cases, without going to a doctor, having stitches, or any other help, the cut healed itself. It did so because God has built into our bodies the ability to self-heal. You get a cold and, guess what? You get over it!  You get influenza and in a matter of days you are well again. All we have to do is allow it to happen providing we don't do things to counteract the natural response, and we do those things that enhance the natural response.

   On the other hand, if we deny our bodies the proper nutrients it takes to mount up a defense against irritants, it may be too weak to heal. That brings me to the point of this post.

     Have you ever heard of the placebo effect? Placebos have been used in clinical trials to compare the efficacy of medicines with the natural healing processes of the human body. They will use what are called "sugar pills" given to a segment of the study, who are told that they are receiving medicine, while another segment is given the actual pharmaceutical. To the amazement of those doing the studies, the human mind is capable is signaling healing without the actual medicines many times. By the way, there is an opposite effect as well. Studies have shown that, on occasion, when chemo therapy has been used for instance, persons taking the placebo have shown the same effects as those on the actual therapy, including nausea, weakness, and hair loss. How can this happen? Because the mind is a very powerful tool! Recent studies have shown that the placebo can actually change heart rate, digestion, blood pressure and more. Have you ever been worried about a matter to the point you had heartburn or an upset stomach? What you think, or what you believe, has a huge influence on how you feel. Often when a person is depressed, for instance, it is said that it coincides with a chemical imbalance BUT a legitimate question is, "Did a chemical imbalance lead to depression, or did depression lead to a chemical imbalance?" I believe it is WRONG for doctors to tell a person they have X number of months to live or that there is no hope for their condition. It's almost like casting a spell on the individual because, if he or she believes there is only just so much time left, they will start THINKING in a negative manner and the doctor has determined their demise! 

                                                                            

   You can actually boost another person's immune response by kind, encouraging words, by laughter, by a hug, by watching an uplifting movie, or by sharing some positive thought. On the other hand, you can be negative, hurtful, and damaging to that person's immune response. Why? Because the mind, what I think, how I feel can either be healthy or unhealthy. We have as many nerve receptors in our digestive system as we have in our brains! You've probably heard the phrase "butterflies in the stomach". Well, that's caused by a thought process!

   I think we should all try to practice positive thinking and I don't mean the Robert Schuller method. I mean the Biblical method. For instance the Apostle Paul writes, "Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things." (Philippians 4:8)            
   During this cold and flu season practice positive thoughts. I mean tell your spouse "I love you", try to avoid conflicts, hug your children and your friends. Don't be so afraid of spreading germs because the immune boost you give them will probably ward off the bugs! Spend time praising God and thinking about His Person and works. "I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well." (Psalm 139:14) Especially for the way he has design you and given you a body that, in most cases, is capable of healing itself.

A Father's Reflections

     Isn't it interesting how different siblings can be? One may be timid and another forceful; one may be quiet and another loud. Or, one may be quite animated and another still. One can be compliant and another rebellious. They all have the same home environment. They are all loved. Yet, because they have a will their compliance will be determined by their exercise of that will.

  I have three children. My oldest daughter has been a pretty compliant person all of her life. She's smart and determined, yet, there was very little rebellion seen in her even to this time. In fact, "dad" cut her meat up for her until she was about 17, and she wanted it that way! Even now she calls me for help or advise very often.

   My youngest daughter is a total opposite. She is smart and determined as well but she wants to do everything on her own. She never wanted "dad" to cut up her meat or anything else because she has to do everything herself! She has a very strong will! Compliance is NOT in her vocabulary except compellingly. She does not seek parental advice and doesn't want a parent raining on her parade. Needless to say, this is quite different from her older sister.

   My son, who is now 18 years old is somewhere in the middle. Sometimes compliant (less so now) and sometimes rebellious. I mentioned his attitude in my last post.

   Now, all three grew up in the same surroundings and, we believe, with the same considerations and love. Yet, because of their individual personalities all three are different. Some would say that the influence of their friends, school, and/or other activities makes the difference and I would agree to a point, but it is really that individual personality that makes the difference.

    The Bible says, "For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he" (Prov.23:7) If a child thinks of himself/herself as a part of a family, as dependent on his parents, as responsible to be dutiful it will make for a strong bond but if a child thinks of himself/herself as independent of and from his/her parents and family it makes for an awful lot of ups and downs in that family fellowship.

    Can you image how many children God has to deal with? Each with his own temperament; some with a strong will and others more compliant. I've been around long enough to know that every child of God is different. No two are exactly alike. There are NO TWINS in God's family!

    Jesus said, "And he that sent me is with me: the Father hath not left me alone; for I do always those things that please him." (John 8:29) Jesus, in His incarnation, was compliant to His Father's will. In fact, "Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered; And being made perfect, he became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him;" (Hebrews 5:9) Jesus did everything to please His Father and to be obedient. He is our example and yet we know that we are NOT always obedient; we are not always compliant. I know that with me, if the Father ever had hair it's probably all pulled out by now!

   So,  when ever I reflect on my children and their imperfections, I have to consider my own imperfections and my own rebellious heart. Earlier I mentioned family fellowship. I did NOT say relationship because the relationship will always be settled. It's the fellowship that gets strained. My relationship is settled because my name is written in His Book from the foundation of the world and because the doctrines of grace have been at work in my life, BUT, life is for learning and I have learned, or perhaps I should say I am still learning, that my Father in Heaven and my Savior Jesus Christ do not change; they are the same today as they were two thousand years ago. It is I who change; it is I who, if the fellowship be strained, am responsible!

With Children 18 Is Not A Magic Number!

    One of the things I find to be most frustrating is that when your child turns 18, at least in Michigan, they are considered an adult and your parental oversight is null! At 17 years of age your child can leave home and you can do nothing about it. Of course if he or she gets into trouble you will be held responsible, the school will still call you, perhaps the police will come knocking at your door, and there's not a thing you can do about it.  

    From the child's point of few, they will say, "I'm 18 and I can do what I want; I'm independent and can decide for myself!" Then, the next day they're asking to borrow your car or ask for some money. What really aggravates me is when I had to go along with my son to enroll him in a new school. I had to be there, but now, when I call the school to see how he's doing they tell me, "He's 18 and we can't share that information with you!" Who really believes an 18 year old kid is an adult? 18 is NOT A MAGIC NUMBER! Yes some kids are more adult than others at 18 and, yes, some of them serve in the military at that age.

   I remember back in 1965 when I was 18 years old and in the United States Army. My parents were no longer in control  of me, but the full force of the United States Army was! Yes, I had a certain amount of freedom to make choices but always within limits. They told me, in fact, what to eat, what to drink, what to wear, how to behave. They shaved my hair off. They even gave instructions on bathing! Not only that but they did a whole lot of yelling at me! Do this, do that, do something else; don't do this, don't do that, "you'd better watch it private!" I learned a lot about KP duties in my basic training... and I thought home was tough!  Not at all like this Beetle Baily cartoon!

    Please understand that I have three great kids. I'm not complaining about them. My oldest daughter is 21 and has been on her own. She's learned some life lessons. She's learned that it's tough to get ahead on a modest income. She's learned you can't always count on a roommate! She's learned that, even though she has been "on her own", that she's still VERY dependent on Mom & Dad, and that she really couldn't make it without our help. This is the aquisition of wisdom. She attends Ferris State University and has just completed a CNA class so she's hoping to get a better job. I'm proud of her because she's not only working hard, but she's also realized her limitations in today's world.

   My son is 18 and still in school. He's come to the conclusion that he has to complete school in order to get ahead in life. I will always be concerned about my kids but because he's not academic like his sisters I worry about him more.

    My youngest daughter is 16 and doing very well in High School. She's a sophmore and a junior fire fighter, almost a straight A student, and has a lot of potential. I have every reason to believe she will get a good education and will be successful in life. Of course, life happens!

    So you see, it's not the kids I'm frustrated with, it's the system! All three are Christians, and though they are not as spiritual as I would like I depend upon God's promises. For instance God says, "Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it." (Proverbs 22:6) It says again, "And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord." (Ephesians 6:4) So, I have done, and will continue to do all I can but ultimately I have to rely upon Him. He is wise but the lawmakers of our state are not!   What's written into law doesn't always make sense in our individual lives. I know this, when my kids need wise instruction the lawmakers will NOT be there. When me kids need guidance, the lawmakers are NOT on hand. Mom & Dad will be!

How I Make A Natural Health Assessment (Part Three)

 In parts one and two, I wrote about the steps I take in making a natural health assessment but, after the assessment, suggestions have to be made about how to improve one's health. Just knowing what the body's imbalances are doesn't fix the problem, it just tells us what the problem is.

  

   First, let me clear up a couple of things. In most cases, herbs are not used in the same way allopathic medicine is used. We are not directly, in most cases, relieving symptoms, nor are we curing dis-ease. We are attempting to find imbalances, or weaknesses, in the various systems, and then strengthen them so that the body heals itself! Yes, we can take some Apple Cider Vinegar for acid indigestion and it will bring relief, BUT, we should be trying to balance and strengthen the digestive system so that indigestion doesn't occur. If you are over thirty years old, for instance, hydrochloric acid diminishes in your stomach and we need to rebuild there. Most people don't chew their food properly to get their natural enzyme production to work. Also, most people drink cold liquids with their meals which inhibits those enzymes from doing their work. It's like throwing water on a fire! By the way, if the digestive system is not working properly we cannot expect our herbs to work at full capacity as most of the constituants will pass through the body.

   The answer is then, that almost everyone will need digestive enzymes. So one of the first things I will do is suggest an enzyme supplement. I have had clients that had severe digestive issues that have been corrected through the use of digestive enzymes, properly chewing food, and cutting back on drinking at meals. Enzymes can be procured separately but I generally suggest one that includes all of the digestive enzymes, for fats (lipase), for protein (protease), for carbohydrates (amylase) and so on.   Take according to directions with meals.

   Another thing I will almost always suggest is an increase in fiber. Most of the time I encourage folks to use ground flax seed daily. This can be done by sprinkling it in your meals or you can put a tablespoon in a drink in the morning. Make sure you have plenty of liquids so that the flaxseed swells. It will help to pull particles from the walls of the intestine and correct intestinal constipation,etc. It also helps supply Omega 3 to your diet. You may prefer psyllium hulls. That's o.k. too! I prefer to buy whole flax seeds and then grind them daily or at least every couple of days. I use a coffee grinder. That way they won't spoil. I have bought ground flaxseed in a bag but they must have been on a shelf for awhile because they were already rank.

   Most people really don't lack the major vitamins to a large degree but we almost all lack necessary minerals so I will often encourage one to take a mineral supplement. There are several products that can supply the trace minerals we need but, generally speaking, things like Alfalfa, Kelp, and Dandelion together, can supply practically everything we need, as I understand it.

    Another thing that I often recommend is probriotics.Why? Because by the time someone comes to see me they've already swallowed a ton of pharmaceuticals including Nsaids, and antibiotics. I know then, that their intestinal system has been degraded to a large degree and needs to be rebuilt. Replacing the good flora in the intestinal system is absolutely necessary. In fact, many people suffer from leaky gut syndrome or yeast overgrowth which in turn results in things like chronic fatigue syndrom or fibromialgia. Both of which can be corrected. If the intestinal system is compromised many conditions can result.

   So now that I have recommended these steps we have to consider those things that affect the biological terrain that I spoke of in part one. If you are being exposed to toxins, if at all possible remove yourself from that evironment. If you are suffering from stress, then you need to take steps to  avoid stress (stress alone can cause a plethora of problems). Diet is important so suggestions will be made there. Exercise of some kind is necessary in most cases.

   Last of all, if it's necessary, I will suggest one or more herbal supplements, depending on the problem. By the way, all herbs contain varying degrees of action, and they have varying degrees of direction. Some herbs will have a propensity toward the nervous system. St. John's Wart, for instance has a propensity for the nervous system but it also can be used for other systems. In fact lots of things have to be taken into consideration including whether the problem is acute or chronic, hot or cold, wet or dry, etc.

 An herb like Capsicum has a propensity for the circulatory system, or Mullein for the Respiratory system, etc. So, depending on which system we are attempting to rebuild, herbs that target those systems will be chosen.

   Let me make an important point here: I have know lots of people who use herbs expecting them to help but they do so without any real understanding of the energetics of the herbs and without any real understanding of the CAUSE of their problem. So, they use the herbs to treat the symptoms and then they wonder why it doesn't help. You cannot use herbs like you use pharmaceuticals! Go to a Natural Health Practitioner and get some direction on the use of herbs.