The Behappytudes *

Happy are those who know who to depend on (poor in spirit)
Happy are those who know what to be sad about (mourn)
Happy are those who know how to use their strength (meek)
Happy are those who can only be satisfied by God (hunger and thirst for righteousness)
Happy are those who give people a way to start over (merciful)
Happy are those who keep it honest even when it hurts (pure in heart)
Happy are thse who never give up on making up (peacemakers)
Happy are those who won't quit doing right when it's hard (persecuted)

Last week I was blessed beyond measure when I was able to attend the Pepperdine Lectures. The flowers in Malibu were in full bloom, the sun radiated a steady 75 degrees all week, the views were spectacular. More than the refreshment received from the physical surroundings, though, I was nourished by the fresh look at Jesus' Sermon on the Mount given by amazing orators of the Word and by reconnecting with friends and mentors. I would never grow tired of sitting at the feet of Mike Cope, Don McLaughlin, Monte Cox, Prentice Meador, and so many others as they challenge and encourage. It was so good for my mind and spirit to be stretched in new and uncomfortable ways. Get it on your calendar for next year - it is worth it.

*from Don McLaughlin's fourth-grade class

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If you are in the mood for an impassioned political letter, read & comment on this.

No More Good-byes

I'm sick of saying "good-bye". In the past couple of years we have sent friends to live all over the world. With dear family living in Texas, Colorado, Indiana, and Uganda is seems we are saying our good-byes just moments after we have greeted with hugs and hellos. This week we had to do the dreaded deed once again. We are sending our good friends, Tim & Cheryl, Rylee, Skyler, & Kendall, back to their other home in New Mexico. It really stinks.

This is another reason why I am looking forward to heaven with such great anticipation - no more "good-bye"! Won't that be great?? We just get to hang with our friends and family, laughing and joking and bantering and generally having a great time together. I don't know, though - Tim & Cheryl may get us into some trouble up there. We'll have to see.

I'll be seeing you guys at Pepperdine next week, and then two weeks later spending some good girl time in New York with Cheryl, so I guess this doesn't really count as a good-bye this week. Right? In honor of some of my biggest laughs this year, Cheryl, I'll translate for you:

Ill be see'n you guys at Pepperdine N-to-tha-izzext week, n then two weeks lata spend'n some good girl tizzy in New York wit Cheryl, so I guess this doesnt really count as a good-bye this week. Riznight?*

And while you are getting settled in NM, don't forget to unpack your Business Socks! Love you guys!

* http://gizoogle.com