For some reason unbeknownst to me I find myself drawn to CNN.
I simply cannot understand why I insist on dialing up this non-news
network again and again. But I do. Perhaps it’s because I enjoy the
dialogue we enjoy together. I characterize it as a dialogue because I
find myself, unashamedly, talking back to the talking heads.
CNN’s bias comes to the fore like never before every four years.
(Catchy phrase, huh)? While I dislike DT (almost) as much as I detest
HC, (and would prefer ‘wasting a vote’ writing my own name on the
ballot, than awarding it to one of these characters), in this case, it’s
the principle that counts.
CNN, the so-called ‘Cable News Network’
…is not.
It seems two thirds of their coverage of the presidential election
involves panel discussions, and ‘the deck’ is always stacked against
‘The Donald.’ A three person panel contains two liberals and one
conservative. An eight person panel contains five liberals and two
conservatives and one ‘middle of the roader.’ And whether Anderson
Cooper or Don Lemon or my cousin, Erin, is leading the discussion, he or
she seems to do the best he or she can to ‘shut down’ and nay-say the
conservative voice. (I’m biased, but I think my lady cousin tends to be
the fairest among the three).
At any rate, it never ceases to
amaze me how much time is being devoted to defeating the Republican
candidate. In spite of Hillary’s involvement in the Benghazi Affair,
Private Server-Gate and the destruction of 30,000+ emails, as well as
our daily diet of Wiki-leaks, it seems CNN has given her a proverbial
pass to the presidency, (as they did Obama before her). And yes, I
believe DT did do the things of which he is accused since he has been
heard on a certain video segment bragging about similar behavior.
However, whereas HC’s discrepancies are alluded to all of .5 hours a
day, DT is front and center the remaining 23.5 hours. And I can tell
you, the ‘news’ from Atlanta is anything but complementary.
If HC
manages to re-acquaint herself with The White House I think she owes
the stock holders and powers that be at CNN a huge presidential dinner,
and whatever perks her devious personality and equally demented
abilities can come up with.
By William McDonald, PhD. From (Mc)Donald's Daily Diary. Vol. 44. Copyright pending
If you wish to copy, share or save this blog, please include the credit line, above
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Click
on 2015 in the index to the right of this blog. When my December 31st
blog, "The Shot Must Choose You" appears, click on the title. All my
2015 blog titles will come up in the right margin.
Thursday, October 27, 2016
Wednesday, October 26, 2016
I REMEMBER GRANDDAD. Pt. 1
May 5, 2170
I remember Granddad
Well, I honestly don’t remember him in the traditional way. You see, I never met him. But I am happy to say he made arrangements during his lifetime for me to know him; at least from a distance. The distance we call ‘time.’
His name was William (McDonald). He went by the nickname Bill. He was quick to tell you that his first name meant ‘Protector.’ And if nothing else, he was the Protector of our family tree and a myriad of old stories and photographs connected with it; carefully labeled with the appropriate names of an assortment of otherwise unidentified individuals.
My 4x Great Grandfather passed away in the year 2051. He lived to a ripe old age, dying peacefully in his sleep; less than 24 hours after his 102nd birthday. He always claimed he’d make it to the century mark, and he was good at his word. Granddaddy William sometimes spoke of his own 4x Great Grandfather Rev. Isom (Peacock), my 8x Great Grandfather, and who having lived to be 107 …died falling off a horse! Well, Granddaddy William gave Granddaddy Isom a good run for his money.
I think I must be guilty here of inferring I knew the old boy better than I possibly could without having met him, except
…he left something behind.
That was my ancient grandfather’s way of putting it. He often used that phrase in his writings, for he was a prolific writer, indeed; having left behind an autobiography, doctoral dissertation, a multi-volume diary, numerous unpublished volumes, and thousands of pages dedicated to miscellaneous topics of his day.
Granddaddy William claimed his own father was his inspiration, as Granddaddy Henry was a collector of names and histories before him, and left behind an illustrated binder which included a myriad of old pictures and genealogical history. A great uncle and distant cousin, before him, wrote accounts of their Victorian era experiences.
My beloved ancestor seemed especially keen to leave his descendants a message which it was impossible for him to bequeath in person. His was the first generation in which information could be relegated to permanent e-storage, and in his writings he admonished us to go right on ‘passing the baton’ to the next generation; (given the necessity to convert the drives and disks to whatever type of storage anteceded the former).
**Hypothetical letter written by William McDonald ("Granddaddy") as if a yet unborn descendant was writing it
(to be continued)
By William McDonald, PhD. From (Mc)Donald's Daily Diary. Vol. 44. Copyright pending
If you wish to copy, share or save this blog, please include the credit line, above
**************
If you would like to see the titles and access hundreds of my blogs from 2015, do the following:
Click on 2015 in the index to the right of this blog. When my December 31st blog, "The Shot Must Choose You" appears, click on the title. All my 2015 blog titles will come up in the right margin.
I remember Granddad
Well, I honestly don’t remember him in the traditional way. You see, I never met him. But I am happy to say he made arrangements during his lifetime for me to know him; at least from a distance. The distance we call ‘time.’
His name was William (McDonald). He went by the nickname Bill. He was quick to tell you that his first name meant ‘Protector.’ And if nothing else, he was the Protector of our family tree and a myriad of old stories and photographs connected with it; carefully labeled with the appropriate names of an assortment of otherwise unidentified individuals.
My 4x Great Grandfather passed away in the year 2051. He lived to a ripe old age, dying peacefully in his sleep; less than 24 hours after his 102nd birthday. He always claimed he’d make it to the century mark, and he was good at his word. Granddaddy William sometimes spoke of his own 4x Great Grandfather Rev. Isom (Peacock), my 8x Great Grandfather, and who having lived to be 107 …died falling off a horse! Well, Granddaddy William gave Granddaddy Isom a good run for his money.
I think I must be guilty here of inferring I knew the old boy better than I possibly could without having met him, except
…he left something behind.
That was my ancient grandfather’s way of putting it. He often used that phrase in his writings, for he was a prolific writer, indeed; having left behind an autobiography, doctoral dissertation, a multi-volume diary, numerous unpublished volumes, and thousands of pages dedicated to miscellaneous topics of his day.
Granddaddy William claimed his own father was his inspiration, as Granddaddy Henry was a collector of names and histories before him, and left behind an illustrated binder which included a myriad of old pictures and genealogical history. A great uncle and distant cousin, before him, wrote accounts of their Victorian era experiences.
My beloved ancestor seemed especially keen to leave his descendants a message which it was impossible for him to bequeath in person. His was the first generation in which information could be relegated to permanent e-storage, and in his writings he admonished us to go right on ‘passing the baton’ to the next generation; (given the necessity to convert the drives and disks to whatever type of storage anteceded the former).
**Hypothetical letter written by William McDonald ("Granddaddy") as if a yet unborn descendant was writing it
(to be continued)
By William McDonald, PhD. From (Mc)Donald's Daily Diary. Vol. 44. Copyright pending
If you wish to copy, share or save this blog, please include the credit line, above
**************
If you would like to see the titles and access hundreds of my blogs from 2015, do the following:
Click on 2015 in the index to the right of this blog. When my December 31st blog, "The Shot Must Choose You" appears, click on the title. All my 2015 blog titles will come up in the right margin.
I REMEMBER GRANDDAD. Pt. 2
(Cont. from Pt. 1)
Before he ‘stepped across the great divide’ Granddaddy William left me, (and his then unseen progeny which would follow him) a personal note.
It reads as follows
I stare into the eyes of that yellowing, fading portrait of my great Grandparents now, and their dull, unblinking eyes reveal
… absolutely nothing.
And I have often mused, “Why didn’t you leave something behind?”
Oh, how I would have enjoyed knowing you. How wonderful it would have been if you had left some word, some reflection, something of yourselves.
Well, my dear descendants, I have decided NOT to repeat their mistake; (and yes, I consider it an irrevocable mistake; which once the party has passed from this earth can never be corrected.) I think the following daily journal entries, (as well as my previously written autobiography, counseling memoirs, and other volumes) will not only elicit a few laughs, but provide you some insight into the life of your ancestor; someone not unlike yourself, who lived, and loved, and moved, and breathed, and made his way about this earth, and even impacted a few for good, “before you were even a twinkle.”
You deserve it.
And this writer, who by the time you read these words may have long since ceased to live, and love, and breathe, and move, and enjoy the beauty which God has visited upon our planet, can only wish you well, and exhort you to do as I am currently doing…
We are all too close to having eyes which do not see, ears which do not hear, and mouths which do not speak. While there is still time,
… Leave something of yourself behind.
And so much more crucial than my previous admonition, I earnestly pray, (and I have prayed for you when you were not, and when only God knew you by name) that you will give your life to the Lord Jesus Christ, faithfully serve Him, and make a profound difference among those whom God has chosen to set in your pathway; as I believe that I have done.
For as a wise and equally well-known man of my time, Dr. James Dobson, (whom I once met, and conversed with) has encouraged his own children, and grandchildren…
… “Be There!”
… “Be There!”
I hope to meet you in heaven. I’ll be waiting just inside the gate.
Granddaddy William
Is it any wonder I write as if I knew him? How can one read such stuff as this and not develop some ethereal bond with a man who prayed for me and mine decades before we were a passing thought or proverbial theory?
How can I deny him his richly deserved Legacy by failing to give my life to the God whom he served? How can I squander the days of my life and avoid making it count for something and someone, as he made his life count before me?
I am inestimably glad and eternally humbled that before his passing my ancient grandfather took measures to assure he would avoid the fate of the majority of his own ancestors who pre-dated him. For you see, to me my Grandfather William is so much more than a yellowing, fading bit of celluloid. He has become as real and vibrant as anyone whom I can presently see with my eyes and touch with my hands.
And has he has done before me, so shall I do.
I remember Granddad
By William McDonald, PhD. From (Mc)Donald's Daily Diary. Vol. 44. Copyright pending
If you wish to copy, share or save this blog, please include the credit line, above
**************
If you would like to see the titles and access hundreds of my blogs from 2015, do the following:
Click on 2015 in the index to the right of this blog. When my December 31st blog, "The Shot Must Choose You" appears, click on the title. All my 2015 blog titles will come up in the right margin.
Before he ‘stepped across the great divide’ Granddaddy William left me, (and his then unseen progeny which would follow him) a personal note.
It reads as follows
I stare into the eyes of that yellowing, fading portrait of my great Grandparents now, and their dull, unblinking eyes reveal
… absolutely nothing.
And I have often mused, “Why didn’t you leave something behind?”
Oh, how I would have enjoyed knowing you. How wonderful it would have been if you had left some word, some reflection, something of yourselves.
Well, my dear descendants, I have decided NOT to repeat their mistake; (and yes, I consider it an irrevocable mistake; which once the party has passed from this earth can never be corrected.) I think the following daily journal entries, (as well as my previously written autobiography, counseling memoirs, and other volumes) will not only elicit a few laughs, but provide you some insight into the life of your ancestor; someone not unlike yourself, who lived, and loved, and moved, and breathed, and made his way about this earth, and even impacted a few for good, “before you were even a twinkle.”
You deserve it.
And this writer, who by the time you read these words may have long since ceased to live, and love, and breathe, and move, and enjoy the beauty which God has visited upon our planet, can only wish you well, and exhort you to do as I am currently doing…
We are all too close to having eyes which do not see, ears which do not hear, and mouths which do not speak. While there is still time,
… Leave something of yourself behind.
And so much more crucial than my previous admonition, I earnestly pray, (and I have prayed for you when you were not, and when only God knew you by name) that you will give your life to the Lord Jesus Christ, faithfully serve Him, and make a profound difference among those whom God has chosen to set in your pathway; as I believe that I have done.
For as a wise and equally well-known man of my time, Dr. James Dobson, (whom I once met, and conversed with) has encouraged his own children, and grandchildren…
… “Be There!”
… “Be There!”
I hope to meet you in heaven. I’ll be waiting just inside the gate.
Granddaddy William
Is it any wonder I write as if I knew him? How can one read such stuff as this and not develop some ethereal bond with a man who prayed for me and mine decades before we were a passing thought or proverbial theory?
How can I deny him his richly deserved Legacy by failing to give my life to the God whom he served? How can I squander the days of my life and avoid making it count for something and someone, as he made his life count before me?
I am inestimably glad and eternally humbled that before his passing my ancient grandfather took measures to assure he would avoid the fate of the majority of his own ancestors who pre-dated him. For you see, to me my Grandfather William is so much more than a yellowing, fading bit of celluloid. He has become as real and vibrant as anyone whom I can presently see with my eyes and touch with my hands.
And has he has done before me, so shall I do.
I remember Granddad
By William McDonald, PhD. From (Mc)Donald's Daily Diary. Vol. 44. Copyright pending
If you wish to copy, share or save this blog, please include the credit line, above
**************
If you would like to see the titles and access hundreds of my blogs from 2015, do the following:
Click on 2015 in the index to the right of this blog. When my December 31st blog, "The Shot Must Choose You" appears, click on the title. All my 2015 blog titles will come up in the right margin.
Tuesday, October 25, 2016
THE RALPH KRAMDEN SYNDROME
One of the funniest shows that I ever
viewed, (if it can be called a ‘show’ since it consumed a major portion of The
Jackie Gleason television program) was “The Honeymooners.”
Following is a synopsis of that mid-50’s
weekly TV segment
Played by Jackie Gleason, Ralph Kramden was a bus driver for the fictional Gotham Bus
Company based out of Brooklyn, NY. He is never seen driving a bus (except in
publicity photos), but is often shown at the bus depot. Ralph is frustrated by
his lack of success, and often develops get-rich-quick
schemes. Ralph is
very short tempered, frequently resorting to bellowing, insults and hollow
threats. Well-hidden beneath the many layers of bluster, however, is a
soft-hearted man who loves his wife and is devoted to his best pal, Ed Norton.
Ralph enjoys bowling, playing pool and being a member in the Loyal Order of
Raccoon Lodge (although in several episodes a blackboard at the lodge lists his
dues as being in arrears). Ralph was given honorary membership in the union for
real New York City bus drivers (Local 100 of the Transport
Workers Union)
during the run of the show, and a Brooklyn bus depot was named in Gleason's
honor after his death (Wikipedia)
Although the
segment had a limited run of 39 issues, as it faced stiff completion from “The
Perry Como Show,” I think its impact is still being felt today. At least, there
are millions of so-called ‘baby boomers’ who remember it well, and videos of
the program can still be purchased and viewed internet sites today.
The
personality and antics of the middle-aged, overweight bus driver were, it seems
to me, almost a mix of the comedy duo, Laurel & Hardy. Whereas, Ralph
possessed some ‘there there’ in terms of his innate intelligence, he managed to
scheme his ways into the most ridiculous, well, schemes, and almost without fail,
he came up on ‘the short end of the stick.’
Perhaps
Kramden’s behavior patterns had been role-modeled by his father. He seemed to
have a sense of entitlement characterized by, as the synopsis implies,
investing money in ‘sure to win’ but, on a practical basis, sure to fail, get
rich quick ventures. If he could just make it work one time, he’d be able to
get out of the second class shambles of a neighborhood in which he lived, and
go on to live happily ever after with his beloved, Alice.
As a
counselor, I’m convinced old Ralph’s attitude and behavior has something to
teach us. Although, as we used to say in the south, he was ‘funny as all get
out,’ what he had going on doesn’t get it done in the real world.
WHAT FEELS GOOD DOESN’T ALWAYS WORK
GOOD
Ralph was a
creature of his emotions. His innate desire to ‘hit the big time’ got the best
of him, and he surrendered whatever smidgen of logic he possessed when the
stimulus to do otherwise came knocking at his door. It felt good, but it didn’t
always work good.
HE INVOLVED OTHER PEOPLE IN HIS
SHENANIGANS
Ralph
couldn’t help but to share his wild and wacky ideas with Ed Norton, his
tenement neighbor. Though Ed was often tempted to say, ‘No’ and though he
wasn’t as easily led astray as his rotund friend, he was easily persuadable and
he loved his buddy far too much to allow him to go it alone.
HE DIDN’T LEARN FROM HIS MISTAKES
N.A. has a definition for Insanity which, even as a counselor, I cannot nay-say.
"Repeating the same mistakes (time and time again) and expecting different results.
That's what Ralph did. And time and time again, he 'went down in flames.'
To put a positive spin on a negative behavior pattern, I have often admonished my clients,
"If you want something you've never had, you may have to do something you've never done."
HE WAS JUST PLAIN STUCK
Like waking
up with your feet in a wet gray mixture …and discovering its concrete.
The poor man
was stuck in his ways, and he wasn’t interesting in changing.
Among the
thousands of clients with whom I’ve worked over the course of a quarter
century, I’ve met far too many men and women who fit this profile.
Too many of
God’s creatures are content to be mediocre, or at the least haven’t a clue how
to break out of those stale old, dysfunctional patterns of behavior. They fall
short of God’s plans and purposes, seem content to while away their years, and
never fulfill the destiny He designed for them
…before He made the worlds.
By William McDonald, PhD. From (Mc)Donald's Daily Diary. Vol. 44. Copyright pending
If you wish to copy, share or save this blog, please include the credit line, above
**************
If you would like to see the titles and access hundreds of my blogs from 2015, do the following:
Click on 2015 in the index to the right of this blog. When my December 31st blog, "The Shot Must Choose You" appears, click on the title. All my 2015 blog titles will come up in the right margin
Monday, October 24, 2016
THE CASPERS OF OUR LIVES. Pt. III. (a.k.a. Summoning Up Harry)
GHOSTING
We’re getting there. At least, in relation to this topic, we’re getting to where I want to take you.
If you spent some time with the previous segment of this article, you just finished reading a passage from the Old Testament in which King Saul summoned up the Prophet Samuel from the grave.
Well, my friends, the king was all too aware of the admonition in the Book of Leviticus.
“‘Do not turn to mediums or seek out spiritists, (nor attempt to interact with the dead). I am the LORD your God. (19:31)
Saul had willingly disobeyed the Almighty, and for this he would pay with his life.
Okay. Now we’re there there.
Again, I don’t know if the creator of the word, ‘Ghosting’ thought it through in the way I have thought it through, but based on the prohibition in Leviticus and the story of King Saul, it has been helpful for me to consider those persons in my life, who have purposely stepped away from me, and without clarification as,
…dead.
It simply serves my purposes to think of them as
…ghosts;
(which makes a lot of sense when you consider they have already relegated you or me to past tense status).
You don’t socialize with ghosts. You don’t invite them into your house. You don’t cook them a meal. You don’t maintain communication with them.
…They’re DEAD!
Readers, I’m convinced that we all have to find our own way in regard to healing the wounds which result from the ‘dearly departed people’ in our lives; who have chosen to ‘ghost’ us. But this is how I deal with it.
I value and affirm the love and care we once enjoyed together
(but)
I consider them to be among the departed, and refuse to entertain any further thoughts about them or hold any more (figurative) séances with the ghosts of my past.
I refuse to summon up Harry.
Rest in Peace, Casper.
NOTES: A few disclaimers here
We all deal with our ‘ghosts’ in different ways. Some very successfully. Others not so much. I just happen to believe the manner I described, above is an especially viable way to address such persons and circumstances; when one has been ‘set aside’ with little or no explanation.
The course which I have detailed does not, in my mind, apply to those with whom you have amicably separated yourself, or vice versa, and maintain a distant, but tolerable relationship.
One especially troublesome variable, in terms of this subject, is the presence of both Ex’s and minor children. Obviously, in such a case one is forced to maintain some connection and communication ‘til one’s offspring reach the age of maturity.
Finally, as Christian people we are confronted with the imperative of forgiveness; which, I believe, we are called to exercise 100 percent of the time, whether the ‘guilty party’ requests it, or doesn’t. If for no other reason than forgiveness is good for us.
Forgiveness, however, does not necessarily include the reestablishment or reinvestment of trust; now or in the future.
Perhaps, in a minority of cases, it may be possible to bring one’s ‘ghost’ back to life. That is, occasionally reconciliation with the offending party becomes possible. Obviously, in such a case, one must make a decision whether it is safe or wise to put one’s vulnerability on the line, and risk the same outcome as before.
By William McDonald, PhD. From (Mc)Donald's Daily Diary. Vol. 44. Copyright pending
If you wish to copy, share or save this blog, please include the credit line, above
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THE CASPERS IN OUR LIVES. Pt. II. (a.k.a. Summoning Up Harry)
Ghosting
In the previous blog I addressed this rather ‘strange & wonderful’ 21st century word and the definition thereof.
At first light the term has little or nothing to do with the topic of ghosts, until we examine it carefully. (And I have wondered if the creator of the word had any thought, whatsoever, of the manner in which I would, ultimately, characterize it).
As I previously inferred, (particularly) in my role as a mentor I have experienced the loss of established friends who began as disciples; (for they had submitted themselves to being taught). And what has been especially hurtful is their almost unilateral unwillingness to explain themselves.
Readers, it almost goes without saying, the loss of such ‘near and dear’ people in my life has been excruciating, and the healing process has been difficult, at best.
In Part 1 of this article I expressed how that Jesus, Himself ‘walked the way of the cross’ well before you and me, (and in this case, I am referring to some difficult emotions He experienced during the three years of His formal ministry; not the least of which was the loss of valued friends).
GHOSTING - “To break off a valued and established relationship; without so much as a word or a reason, and with little apparent concern for he or she whom one has chosen to dispatch.”
(McDonald Paraphase)
Yep. Been there. Done that. Bought the T-shirt. Once on the ‘giving end.’ Scads of times on the ‘receiving end.’
And it hasn’t been cool. And it hasn’t been keen. And it hasn’t been swell. And it hasn’t been groovy. No, my friend. It has hurt like
h_ _ _. The wounds are slow to heal, and prone to fester.
A famous magician and daredevil by the name of Harry Houdini had a fascination for the occult, and promised his wife that if he preceded her in death, and if he was at able to make it happen, he would posthumously revisit her. Well, as it fell together, Houdini died at a relatively young age, and for some time thereafter Mrs. Houdini conducted séances in an attempt to contact her dearly departed husband. To no avail.
Interestingly enough, (I think) in the Old Testament there is a reference to this very type of activity. Bear with me since I believe it is important here to cite the words of that particular passage. (Are you ready)?
Now Samuel was dead, and all Israel had mourned for him and buried him in his own town of Ramah. Saul had expelled the mediums and spiritists from the land.
The Philistines assembled and came and set up camp at Shunem, while Saul gathered all Israel and set up camp at Gilboa. When Saul saw the Philistine army, he was afraid; terror filled his heart. He inquired of the LORD, but the LORD did not answer him.
Saul then said to his attendants, “Find me a woman who is a medium, so I may go and inquire of her.”
“There is one in Endor,” they said.
So Saul disguised himself, putting on other clothes, and at night he and two men went to the woman. “Consult a spirit for me,” he said, “and bring up for me the one I name.”
Then the woman asked, “Whom shall I bring up for you?”
“Bring up Samuel,” he said.
The king said to her, “Don’t be afraid. What do you see?”
The woman said, “I see a ghostly figure coming up out of the earth.”
Samuel said to Saul, “Why have you disturbed me by bringing me up?”
“I am in great distress,” Saul said. “The Philistines are fighting against me, and God has departed from me. He no longer answers me, either by prophets or by dreams. So I have called on you to tell me what to do.”
Samuel said, “Why do you consult me, now that the LORD has departed from you and become your enemy? The LORD will deliver both Israel and you into the hands of the Philistines, and tomorrow you and your sons will be with me. The LORD will also give the army of Israel into the hands of the Philistines.” (1st Samuel, Chapter 28)
(to be continued)
By William McDonald, PhD. From (Mc)Donald's Daily Diary. Vol. 44. Copyright pending
If you wish to copy, share or save this blog, please include the credit line, above
**************
If you would like to see the titles and access hundreds of my blogs from 2015, do the following:
Click on 2015 in the index to the right of this blog. When my December 31st blog, "The Shot Must Choose You" appears, click on the title. All my 2015 blog titles will come up in the right margin
In the previous blog I addressed this rather ‘strange & wonderful’ 21st century word and the definition thereof.
At first light the term has little or nothing to do with the topic of ghosts, until we examine it carefully. (And I have wondered if the creator of the word had any thought, whatsoever, of the manner in which I would, ultimately, characterize it).
As I previously inferred, (particularly) in my role as a mentor I have experienced the loss of established friends who began as disciples; (for they had submitted themselves to being taught). And what has been especially hurtful is their almost unilateral unwillingness to explain themselves.
Readers, it almost goes without saying, the loss of such ‘near and dear’ people in my life has been excruciating, and the healing process has been difficult, at best.
In Part 1 of this article I expressed how that Jesus, Himself ‘walked the way of the cross’ well before you and me, (and in this case, I am referring to some difficult emotions He experienced during the three years of His formal ministry; not the least of which was the loss of valued friends).
GHOSTING - “To break off a valued and established relationship; without so much as a word or a reason, and with little apparent concern for he or she whom one has chosen to dispatch.”
(McDonald Paraphase)
Yep. Been there. Done that. Bought the T-shirt. Once on the ‘giving end.’ Scads of times on the ‘receiving end.’
And it hasn’t been cool. And it hasn’t been keen. And it hasn’t been swell. And it hasn’t been groovy. No, my friend. It has hurt like
h_ _ _. The wounds are slow to heal, and prone to fester.
A famous magician and daredevil by the name of Harry Houdini had a fascination for the occult, and promised his wife that if he preceded her in death, and if he was at able to make it happen, he would posthumously revisit her. Well, as it fell together, Houdini died at a relatively young age, and for some time thereafter Mrs. Houdini conducted séances in an attempt to contact her dearly departed husband. To no avail.
Interestingly enough, (I think) in the Old Testament there is a reference to this very type of activity. Bear with me since I believe it is important here to cite the words of that particular passage. (Are you ready)?
Now Samuel was dead, and all Israel had mourned for him and buried him in his own town of Ramah. Saul had expelled the mediums and spiritists from the land.
The Philistines assembled and came and set up camp at Shunem, while Saul gathered all Israel and set up camp at Gilboa. When Saul saw the Philistine army, he was afraid; terror filled his heart. He inquired of the LORD, but the LORD did not answer him.
Saul then said to his attendants, “Find me a woman who is a medium, so I may go and inquire of her.”
“There is one in Endor,” they said.
So Saul disguised himself, putting on other clothes, and at night he and two men went to the woman. “Consult a spirit for me,” he said, “and bring up for me the one I name.”
Then the woman asked, “Whom shall I bring up for you?”
“Bring up Samuel,” he said.
The king said to her, “Don’t be afraid. What do you see?”
The woman said, “I see a ghostly figure coming up out of the earth.”
Samuel said to Saul, “Why have you disturbed me by bringing me up?”
“I am in great distress,” Saul said. “The Philistines are fighting against me, and God has departed from me. He no longer answers me, either by prophets or by dreams. So I have called on you to tell me what to do.”
Samuel said, “Why do you consult me, now that the LORD has departed from you and become your enemy? The LORD will deliver both Israel and you into the hands of the Philistines, and tomorrow you and your sons will be with me. The LORD will also give the army of Israel into the hands of the Philistines.” (1st Samuel, Chapter 28)
(to be continued)
By William McDonald, PhD. From (Mc)Donald's Daily Diary. Vol. 44. Copyright pending
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Click on 2015 in the index to the right of this blog. When my December 31st blog, "The Shot Must Choose You" appears, click on the title. All my 2015 blog titles will come up in the right margin
THE CASPERS IN OUR LIVES. Pt. 1
“Jesus asked the Twelve, “Will you also go away?” (John 6:68)
Ghosting
Until a few minutes ago I had no idea what the term implied, other than the possibility of being haunted by some Casper-like phantom; (and at 2/3 of a century, I’m too old and too literate not to have run across the word, or a definition thereof). I mean, I’m almost old enough to be one; (i.e., a ghost).
Why, only a few minutes ago I ran across the term, ‘ghosting’ on a friend’s social media site. And having chanced upon the word, scouring the internet for its definition proved to be one of those epiphany moments.
GHOSTING - “To break off a valued and established relationship; without so much as a word or a reason, and with little apparent concern for he or she whom one has chosen to dispatch.”
(McDonald Paraphase)
To be sure the inherent meaning of the (presumably) 21st century word implies the existence of a relationship between a couple who have formed an exclusive bond with one another, (but which might include a the relationship between a father or mother and their offspring, the kind of relationship two intimate friends establish with one another, or an especially close relationship between a mentor and he or she whom he mentors).
And to be sure, the definition of the word makes some allowance for notifying one’s ‘opposite’ of one’s decision to cease and desist. However, a proper understanding of the word precludes offering the ‘victim’ any understanding or clarification for having made the decision to ‘step away.’
Off and on through the years I have been bothered by an ancient memory of having ‘ghosted’ a particular individual in my own life. Twice. And this was decades before this particular activity clothed itself in the most recent terminology. (‘Til now I have referred to this kind of behavior using sophisticated phrases such as, ‘Kicking Them to the Curb’ (or) ‘Dropping Them on Their Butt’).
They say ‘what goes around comes around’ and there can be little doubt that this old adage is accurate since in recent years it seems a number of the ‘near and dear’ in my own life have ghosted me. Most without notice, nor subsequent explanation, though a few with notice, but lacking the courtesy of any clarification.
I am almost prone to say that we live in an Age of Ghosting, (though perhaps with a slight tweak). I mean, you send a relative or friend a birthday, graduation or Christmas present, and he or she fails to acknowledge the receipt of it; (which leaves the sender feeling rather confused, empty and unappreciated). I suppose the same folks who consider this sort of non-response kosher are the same folks who consider dispatching a relationship without notice or clarification appropriate.
Jesus understood The Principle and Power of Ghosting. (I bet you never ran across a sermon bearing that title). There was a time in His own life when He was ‘put away’ without apparent notice nor clarification. He had exercised great love and care towards His followers, including dozens of people who made up what might be referred to as His ‘outer circle.’
It was after Christ uttered a particularly provocative statement, and which many of His followers failed to grasp, that He experienced a ‘falling away.’ And it was at this point in the God-man’s life that we witness one of the most profound evidences of His humanity. Jesus was struck to the core. For I think prior to the excruciation and humiliation of the cross, it was at this point in His ministry that He experienced the greatest emotional pain to which He would ever be exposed.
A friend of mine put it very well,
“I have learned all about ghosting which is really neat…said no one ever.”
Perhaps ‘Ralph’ was alluding to His own personal experience. I think He was.
(to be continued)
By William McDonald, PhD. From (Mc)Donald's Daily Diary. Vol. 44. Copyright pending
If you wish to copy, share or save this blog, please include the credit line, above
**************
If you would like to see the titles and access hundreds of my blogs from 2015, do the following:
Click on 2015 in the index to the right of this blog. When my December 31st blog, "The Shot Must Choose You" appears, click on the title. All my 2015 blog titles will come up in the right margin.
Ghosting
Until a few minutes ago I had no idea what the term implied, other than the possibility of being haunted by some Casper-like phantom; (and at 2/3 of a century, I’m too old and too literate not to have run across the word, or a definition thereof). I mean, I’m almost old enough to be one; (i.e., a ghost).
Why, only a few minutes ago I ran across the term, ‘ghosting’ on a friend’s social media site. And having chanced upon the word, scouring the internet for its definition proved to be one of those epiphany moments.
GHOSTING - “To break off a valued and established relationship; without so much as a word or a reason, and with little apparent concern for he or she whom one has chosen to dispatch.”
(McDonald Paraphase)
To be sure the inherent meaning of the (presumably) 21st century word implies the existence of a relationship between a couple who have formed an exclusive bond with one another, (but which might include a the relationship between a father or mother and their offspring, the kind of relationship two intimate friends establish with one another, or an especially close relationship between a mentor and he or she whom he mentors).
And to be sure, the definition of the word makes some allowance for notifying one’s ‘opposite’ of one’s decision to cease and desist. However, a proper understanding of the word precludes offering the ‘victim’ any understanding or clarification for having made the decision to ‘step away.’
Off and on through the years I have been bothered by an ancient memory of having ‘ghosted’ a particular individual in my own life. Twice. And this was decades before this particular activity clothed itself in the most recent terminology. (‘Til now I have referred to this kind of behavior using sophisticated phrases such as, ‘Kicking Them to the Curb’ (or) ‘Dropping Them on Their Butt’).
They say ‘what goes around comes around’ and there can be little doubt that this old adage is accurate since in recent years it seems a number of the ‘near and dear’ in my own life have ghosted me. Most without notice, nor subsequent explanation, though a few with notice, but lacking the courtesy of any clarification.
I am almost prone to say that we live in an Age of Ghosting, (though perhaps with a slight tweak). I mean, you send a relative or friend a birthday, graduation or Christmas present, and he or she fails to acknowledge the receipt of it; (which leaves the sender feeling rather confused, empty and unappreciated). I suppose the same folks who consider this sort of non-response kosher are the same folks who consider dispatching a relationship without notice or clarification appropriate.
Jesus understood The Principle and Power of Ghosting. (I bet you never ran across a sermon bearing that title). There was a time in His own life when He was ‘put away’ without apparent notice nor clarification. He had exercised great love and care towards His followers, including dozens of people who made up what might be referred to as His ‘outer circle.’
It was after Christ uttered a particularly provocative statement, and which many of His followers failed to grasp, that He experienced a ‘falling away.’ And it was at this point in the God-man’s life that we witness one of the most profound evidences of His humanity. Jesus was struck to the core. For I think prior to the excruciation and humiliation of the cross, it was at this point in His ministry that He experienced the greatest emotional pain to which He would ever be exposed.
A friend of mine put it very well,
“I have learned all about ghosting which is really neat…said no one ever.”
Perhaps ‘Ralph’ was alluding to His own personal experience. I think He was.
(to be continued)
By William McDonald, PhD. From (Mc)Donald's Daily Diary. Vol. 44. Copyright pending
If you wish to copy, share or save this blog, please include the credit line, above
**************
If you would like to see the titles and access hundreds of my blogs from 2015, do the following:
Click on 2015 in the index to the right of this blog. When my December 31st blog, "The Shot Must Choose You" appears, click on the title. All my 2015 blog titles will come up in the right margin.
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