An "Obamatopia" Hopeful

First there was "Obamamania," punctured in places by naysayers crying "Nobama!" Now as President-elect Barack Obama prepares for the White House, his message of change, resounding both at home and abroad, seems to have unleashed a barrage of Barackisms. Or, maybe they should be called Obamanyms. Below is an Obama glossary culled from many sources.

OBAMAPHORIA: The post-election rapture that swept over Obama's supporter worldwide.

OBAMANATION: A twist on "abomination," expressed by evangelicals and other conservatives who oppose Obama's stance on abortion, gay marriage and other social issues.

OBAMARAMA: The celebration around the January 20, 2009, inauguration.

OBAMANOS: A play on "Vamonos," or "Let's go," among Obama fans in Mexico.

OBAMATOPIA: The political paradise that Obama's staunchest supporters hope he'll usher in.

OBAMALUJAH: Exultation shouted by his fans.

OBAMATRONS: The policy wonks who will occupy the West Wing of his White House.

OBAMASCOPE: Media scrutiny of the new leader. Everything he does will be under this scope.

OBAMANATOR: Hollywood-inspired nickname for the new president, even if he's got what California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger contends are "skinny legs" and "scrawny little arms."

OBAMALICIOUS: Complimentary term used by those who like Obama's looks.

OBAMALOHA: Goodbye, Obama-style, with a nod to Hawaii, his birthplace.

OH-BAMA: Joyful exclamation, via headlines in the Kennebec, Maine, Journal, The Register Guard in Eugene, Ore., and The Namibian, from the southern African country of Namibia.

BAMALOT: Description of his presidency, from a New York Post headline that played on the youth and freshness of John F. Kennedy's administration that came to be known as "Camelot."

OBAMERIKA: Headline from the Croatian newspaper Slobodna Dalmacija.

BARACKSTAR: Description from those who believe Obama is "the Mick Jagger of politics."

__Associated Press


Certainly, this is only the begining of things to come. We have already seen videos, special lyrics put to melody and even poems. I have never before watched or have even been interested in knowing the most intimate details of the life of the President and his family. So, bring it on. I'm ready to see more history unfold. I'm ready to study the trends that will result and become fashionable because of our President Elect Barack Obama.

May God Continue to Protect he and his family.

"November Thirteenth"

As a child, anticipating November 13th drew a lot of excitment. Thoughts of who would remember that date, how many gifts would I get, if I would have a great big birthday cake with colorful candles would thrill my very soul. This was a day that was a celebration of ME. My own special observance. Well.... until my baby sister came along. She was born on November 13th eleven years later. I vividly remember only two birthdays of my youth and this is one of them. Being the only girl, the eldest of three brothers, my sister's birth was a great joy. A child under 14 years of age was not allowed to visit patients in the hospital. I could not wait until they brought her home. She was so beautiful, and she is still beautiful today (even though she was a bit of a brat growing up :-) I love her dearly.

To this day, my greatest birthday memory was my 7th birthday. My parents were a struggling young couple and my mother was attending nursing school. My father would use the family car to get to work on a swing shift at a refinary. My mother would wake at 5 a.m. to get ready and catch the bus to school each day. She would drop me off at a close friends house around 6:30 a.m. where I would stay until it was time for me to go to school.

On this particular day (11/13th) she woke me up which seemed to be in the middle of the night. I couldn't understand why she didn't turn on any lights in the darkness. We turned the corner in the small hallway and I saw a dim light coming from the kitchen. My little tiny heart begin to beat a little faster and I became very anxious. And then... WOW!! the breakfast table was filled with candlelight. I had no cake, no present, no card, no guests. But, OH!!!...I did have my Mama, her home cooked breakfast, her love, just she and I alone in the dim lite kitchen talking about what "I" wanted to talk about. Most of all I appreciated her thoughtfulness and imagination to make her little girl happy inspite of having no other means or money. After we ate, she put me back to bed for a little while longer until it was time to leave for the day. For the rest of that day my mind would relive my moments with Mama over and over. With great pride, I told all of my closest friends at school that day. This shall be my most cherished memory for as long as I live. It's remembrance ALWAYS bring tears. Thank you Mama.

As an adult I have had many wonderful gifts and celebrations. My husband never forgets and has given me priceless memories, birthday parties, trips, etc. The congregation has also been very thoughtful and generous to their First Lady. I love the happy birthday song that is sung to me by my grandchildren on the phone and hearing from my Sons and wives. Oh yes, and the birthday card my Mom sends in the mail even though we live in the same city :-) My excitement is different of that of a child. I reflect upon the blessings of God and the valley and mountaintop experiences and rejoice.

When approaching my 35th birthday I became depressed because I didn't want to be 40. In the meantime, God taught me through some hard lessons to be grateful for added life. By age 50 I had learned to rejoice. I am excited about the gifts that God has ALREADY given me. My family, my faith, salvation, contentment in mind and spirit, shelter, food, health. I could go on and on. I can truly say that I don't need a thing for my birthday as I look towards 60 but prayer.

As I close, I would like to borrow a thought from my husbands favorite scripture, Phillippians 1:21. It is my desire and pleasure to daily live for Christ. He is my greatest joy and excitement. I wait in great anticipation to "gain" my greatest gift that awaits me.....
Eternal Life.

Thank you Jesus!

Happy Birthday to my beloved Sister

on November Thirteenth

Ms. Malinda L. Francis Ward

I love you

XOXOX

Vietta

President Barack Obama!!

Thank God for this history making event. We serve an awesome God. Truly President Elect Obama is the man chosen by God for the great task that lies before him. May God continually keep His arms of protection around he and his entire family. I pray that he adheres to the direction and voice of God at all times. God Be Praised!!!

Proverbs 3:5&6

I'm Back! Did I Miss Anything?

I had a wonderful time during the weeks away from home. We had no car trouble, and each flight was relatively smooth during our vacation. We had a grand time the week of our State Convention. Each lesson, sermon, inspirational talk and presentation was outstanding. Our new Minister's Wives President did a fantastic job during her "first" annual address. I am the outgoing President that served nine years and I was in charge of our "love in action" portion of the program for our president. The ladies went beyond what was asked of them to shower her with gifts and money. Our President's recommendations during her message included electing me as President Emeritus of the Minister's Wives Auxiliary. I was surprised and honored as they carried the motion to except her request. Please be in prayer for our convention President, Dr. A.S. Johnson who at the time of the convention was in ICU suffering with the aftermath of a stroke. He is presently in a medical rehab facility. God bless 1st. vice president, Dr. K.W. Tillmon, 2nd vice president, Dr. W.L. Pullam, and 3rd vice president, Dr. R. Stewart for moving the convention forward during our session in the absence of our beloved President. We were truly blessed.

What can I say about my time in Vegas. WOW!! I had a terrific time. I didn't do anything unlawful in the state of Nevada or immoral. I did win $145 by accident (long story). There were six of us that was in fellowship there and we all agreed that it was well worth the time and money we spent. The fellowship was priceless. One tiny little issue....my arthritis in my right knee was on the rampage. The last two days I was on a walking cane and in much pain. I took advil and kept up with the group. That's all I'm saying about Vegas. What happens there, stays there. I will try to post photos soon.

Glad to know all is well here at home. Tony must have done a good job keeping you all in line. I did cheat and looked in on you all a couple of times real quick. A snitch (not Lance) told me that Fitts acted up a little bit but it all resolved itself peacefully. So glad that each sermon seemed to be dynamic as usual by each outline that I read and your comments to each other, not that I am an expert (lol).

Thank each of you for your comments on my last blog. I was pleasantly amused and drawn closer to each of you. Thank you for your prayers and can't wait to get back into your lives and giving my "two cents worth" Thank you also for being in my life. Reading the comments of my last blog, it seems as though another Brother wants to become a son of mine. It is perfectly ok with me Bro. Wilson. Although, being that you are REAL close to crossing over to age 50, we might have to settle for just being siblings instead. I will let you and my sons decide which. What do you all think? A son or a sibling?

Oh yes, the answer to the question raised in my blog subject is....Yes, YOU!

having confidence in you all, that my joy is the joy of you all

2 Corinthians 2:3b

Mother

Be Good and Behave!!

I had a fantastic weekend. I was in fellowship with the Friendship Baptist Church in celebration of Pastor Kevin Pullam's 8th pastoral anniversary. Starting with a luncheon given Saturday in honor of the First Lady, Sis. LaTonya D. Pullam that was really really nice with good food, gifts, words of appreciation and (my favorite) $$$$$$$. Saturday evening an outstanding musical was held in honor of the pastoral family. Sunday morning worship, Pastor Arthur Lane of St Matthew Baptist Church of the city was his guest preacher. I was unable to attend that service because my church was having our Annual Men's Day program. Pastor Leonard James of Austin, Texas preached in our (SJFBC) service. Pastor Kevin's final service was at 3 p.m. and we had a grand time in the Lord. Pastor Dr. C. E. Richarson Sr. of Calvary First Baptist Church of the city did an awesome job. A special tribute was given by his father Pastor W. L. Pullam (and he sure did preach). I do believe Pastor Pullam and his family was made very happy and encouraged by the acts of kindness rendered.

Well, I am going to be out of pocket for a couple of weeks. I will be attending our State Convention this week. We will leave the convention headed for our vacation in Nevada, which will be for an additional week. I am ssssooooo ready to go. We usually take this week alone but this year my husband's brother and his wife will be going with us, as well as my mother and my aunt (my mom's sister). We look forward to the fellowship.

To my Sons, you all behave yourselves while Mama is away. Play fair and share. I am leaving Tony in charge until I get back. Fitts, you and Spoon stay on your own side of the room. Lance (the tattler) will report to me everything that's going on. I already know that Mcghee, Ed, Clinton and Reggie will be neutral so don't sway them. I don't have to worry about Kevin and Kraig they NEVER get in trouble, it has always been the "other" fella's fault (Aaron & Lane). Study hard and do your homework!! I expect nothing but great reports from the congregation :-)

I am REALLY going to miss you a lot. I will be thinking of you. I might be tempted to check on you via laptop or business center. I promised the group I would just relax and stay off the computer. Keep us in your prayers and I will do the same. Be obedient. I'll be back soon. I love you.

Mother
Proverbs 25:12

"Better than Wine"

During my clinical training in nursing school I learned a lot about the benefits of what we would consider as non traditional medicine. After I got my nursing degree and met all the requirements to pass the Texas State Board Exams, I received my license to begin my nursing practice. But, after working awhile I wanted to get a promotion and a financial increase by practicing in a specialized area prior to going into OB nursing. To do this, further training had to take place. I took and passed a ten week course in pharmacology at our local college. It was there that I found out some of the benefits of an ocassional glass of red wine. With Geriatrics (the elderly) wine therapy would sometime stimulate the appetite. Wine can also be instrumental in raising your CBC (red blood count) when you are suffering with anemia. The Doctor would actually write an order for it to be given at a certain time to the patient in the hospital. A written prescription for the wine was required from the Doctor in order to administer the dose. Wine in moderation can even be used to eliminate certain stomach ailments and parasites. I wondered why no one could guess the REAL reason I wanted my CBC checked all the time with hopes of it being a little low. (LOL).

The first time I tasted wine I was a newly wed. A good friend came by our apartment to toast our new marriage with a bottle of sweet cheap red wine. I'd never tasted anything so good before. To me it was like drinking kool-aid with a kick. I couldn't drink it fast enough. I thought it was the greatest invention since the wheel. Our friend left about an hour later. What a difference a couple of hours make. I was so sick and I vowed to the Lord, "if you heal me and don't let me die", "I will never do this again". no more wine for me. Well....I kept most of the promise, I didn't do it THAT WAY again. Until I got it out of my system, I thought wine (in moderation) was pretty good. What could be better than a great refreshment that gives joy at the same time?

Nothing gives the believer more joy than being loved by Jesus Christ. Like others we enjoy the good things of life plus the added benefits of the gifts and works of God. There is nothing equal to the delight found in our Lord. I would prefer one mouthful of Christ's love and one sip of His fellowship than a whole world of carnal delights.

Speaking of carnal, all earthly pleasures are earthy, but the comforts of Christ's presence is heavenly. There is no emptiness with Jesus. There is no dregs (sediment) in His wine. The joy of the Lord is solid and enduring. The joy of the Lord in time and in eternity will be worthy to be called "the only true delight"

For nourishment, comfort, exhilaration, and refreshment, no wine can rival the love of Jesus.

"For your love is better than wine"

__Song of Solomon 1:2b__

"we will be glad and rejoice in thee, we will remember thy love more than wine: the upright love thee"

__Song of Solomon 1:4b__

Drink Deeply Today!

"Ear that Hears, Heart that Listens"

My third grade teacher was my favorite in elementary school. Her name was Miss. Flores. I didn't know it at the time but she was an early twenties, unmarried woman just two years into her teaching career. As young as I was at the time, she seemed to be very conscientious and she wanted her students to get as much as we could from her class, and in our learning experience with her. She was the type of teacher that was very personal. She wanted to know about our weekends, holidays, favorite colors, and if we had a visit from the tooth fairy lately. She was even interested in what we wanted to become when we grew up. It felt very genuine to me. I was an average student having a hard time with multiplication, and we developed an unacknowledged closeness. Until graduation from high school I would periodically go by to see her in room 38 at Prescott Elementary.

After getting married, having children and becoming the very thing I told her (at age 9) I wanted to be when I grew up, we would run into each other from time to time. She never married. Later in life she adopted a son who was the same age as my second son Keith. My children were very small when my husband and children had the priviledge of meeting her while eating at the same restaurant. They felt as if they already knew her because I spoke of her often. The last time I saw her was at a high school football game (1991) where both our sons, Freddie and Keith played in the same band. I didn't know it would be my last time. We moved to a different school district and we lost touch.

From time to time, I would bring up the conversation Miss Flores had with us in class one day about "hearing vs listening" with my husband and children. She told us that you can "hear" many things at the same time. We could "hear" her speaking, the birds outside singing, someone tapping on the desk, the pencil sharpener, all at the SAME time. But, you can only "listen" to ONE thing at a time and comprehend. For example: I talk to my husband all the time right in the middle of a play during the football game. After I've said what I wanted to say, I would ask "are you listening to me?" he says "yes" then I'd ask "what did I say?" he couldn't tell me because he wasn't "listening" to ME. He "heard" me (along with the tv I was watching in the other room, because he had asked me to turn it down) but he was "listening" and "comprehending" the game. He would always have the last word though by asking "can we have this conversation after the game?" But, my final last words (while leaving the room) would be... "by then it will be to late and it wouldn't matter".

As Christians, it is painful to think that this is an accusation against believers who are spiritually insensitive. We should regret that we do not hear the voice of God as we should. there are gentle motions of the Holy Spirit in the soul that often go unheeded. There are whispers of divine commands and of heavenly love that are ignored. We have been carelessly ignorant. There are situations we should have seen, iniquities that went unnoticed, sweet feelings left unattended. We missed glimpses of His divine face because our soul's windows were fogged. We did not hear or know because we were preoccupied with other sounds in our ears. As we think about it we are deeply humbled. God deals with us in mercy. Even with His awesome sacrifice He knew what we would be like. Isaiah 48:6-9

Oh redemption, how wonderfully resplendent you shine when I think of how sinful we are! Oh Holy Spirit, give us the "hearing" ear and the understanding heart that "listens".

***********

Today, I would like to wish my Mother a very Happy Birthday!

Mrs. Louia L. Francis

I love you Mama

XOXOXOX

Vietta