Immigration...just become a citizen

Seriously...should immigration be such a big political deal? This whole issue is ridiculous to me...
illegal immigration is against the law for crying out loud! This isn't about "compassion" or "racism", but the LAW of the United States. The unfortunate thing is that our federal government has turned their backs on this issue for years and for several administrations. Now that it has gotten so out of hand, Arizona decides to make their own law just so they can enforce what should have been done a long time ago.
We all know people who immigrated to the US...that is great. That is what America was founded on and based on...immigration. As part of my job, I have doctors and pharmacists here from literally all over the world. Nobody is saying they, or any other legal citizen shouldn't be here...
I have an aunt from the Philippines, who just became a legal citizen. That is my point...if you want to live, work, and stay in our country...then do it! Just legally...
This whole issue baffles me. People who live and work here illegally are stealing money from our government and hard working citizens. Say what you want, but why do people come to the US...for work. Everybody who lives and works here must pay taxes...that is a law too!
So, quit making this about compassion, those wanting a better life, and racism of all things...that is garbage. That isn't the real issue...
I don't know how this issue will be resolved, but it looks like Arizona is taking this into their own hands. According to some media sources...it's working. Immigrants are leaving the state to avoid being sent home...so they are moving to surrounding states. Good luck with that Texas and California. If you think work is hard to find there for your citizens, it looks like the competition will heat up. Now you will have more illegal people working for less money, all while taking jobs from people who want to contribute to our society. Curious to see how this ends up.

Christians under attack...

Christians under attack...

The title may be a little much, but not when you stop to think about how much Christians are criticized. I know this isn't a new concept, but I guess I notice it more by the media and our government more than ever before. There has been a lot of talk about the Pentagon dis-inviting Franklin Graham to speak during the National Day of Prayer (Billy Graham's son for those of you who don't know who Franklin is) Why was he dis-invited, for speaking truth about Islam...that it is a dangerous religion. (Obviously, not everyone who practices this religion is dangerous...but the teachings of it are not love and peace, which is found in Christ). click HERE.
If that isn't enough...back in February a prominent Christian was dis-invited to speak at a luncheon at Andrews Air Force Base...click HERE. What was his dis-invitation in regards to you might ask? His speaking out about the "Don't ask Don't tell policy" and how it can affect the military. Therefore, since he doesn't agree with the homosexual lifestyle, he was told he wouldn't be speaking...after he was already asked to speak of course.
These are just 2 instances that our government has backed down on recently...it's amazing to me how Christianity is the ultimate example of LOVE, yet it is under attack in the US like never before. Our president can hold a Muslim party at the Whitehouse to kick off Ramadan, but now Christians can't speak and pray at government locations and events? That doesn't add up...no matter how he, Obama, wants to sugar coat it...he and our government are not proclaiming freedom of religion. Unfortunately, the Christian beliefs our country was founded on are now "embarrassing" to him and those in charge. What a crock of bull...let's reach out to the Muslim world, the one that bombed us during 911, the one that has beheaded our soldiers, the one that oppresses their women and children, the one who hates Jews and Christians...yeah let's reach out to them while turning our backs on the ones that founded this country. Let this be a wake up call to you out there who consider yourself a Christian...get it in the fight...because Christians are now being oppressed in our country!
And no, I don't mean literal fight...but a prayer fight, a speaking out fight...WE, Christians, have freedom just like any other citizen in this country. Funny enough, some say Christianity isn't tolerant of others...what hypocrisy...it appears to be the other way around.

Another doctor's expense...

Perhaps it is due to my job, but I learn so much from the doctors I get to converse with everyday. The more I learn from them about their expenses, the more I realize how much the general public doesn't know about the different aspects of healthcare. I've mentioned those doctors that are business owners in the past...and how much some of their cost is to actually keep their doors open. Today I had another lesson that I thought would be important to pass along as far as cost:
I was in a very rural area of Arkansas...a very poor area that is dominated by state medicaid. Most of the offices in these types of environments are privately owned and there really isn't the option for big groups of doctors to split the operating costs. This applies to this particular situation...2 doctors own this particular practice. It costs each of them about $40,000/month to run their business...that's a lot of money, especially in this area! Just imagine the doctors in places like New York and DC...I can't even imagine what they would have to pay.
Then, for the part I hadn't thought about...the government has pretty much required all doctors to go to electronic records. Let's face it...a lot of these offices still operate the way they have always done business, with folder files that holds all of their patients' information. As this doctor stated, it would cost them over $100,000 to implement a system like this into their practice...and would it really be worth it considering they are both in their 50's? The answer, NO. So add that into the cost of healthcare next time you go to the doctor. Everyone just forgets about all of the money that goes into someone becoming a doctor, or healthcare professional. As mentioned before...once you take in the rising cost of medical school and the loans that go with that, the bills required to operate a business (which is part of a doctor's office), the insurance for employees if provided, electronic filing and computers, man power to operate the clinic...no wonder healthcare costs a lot. There is so much more to it than just seeing patients. That's the part most doctors actually enjoy...taking care of people. Just keep all of this in mind next time you go to the doctor...none of it should be free. No one can operate a business for free...there is ALWAYS a cost to someone, somewhere.

coexist???

What do you think of the COEXIST bumper sticker? I have seen more and more of them lately in the Memphis area. I will admit my initial reaction was a variety of thoughts and I am still not sure what to think from the Christian perspective.
If you want to know what it means...click HERE.

From what I gather...it kind of means religious freedom and being able to live together in peace. That doesn't sound too bad I agree, but I can't help but wonder if it is simply that message or if there is more to it. As a follower of Christ, I see the promise we have as Christians and know that the other religions represented on the bumper sticker do not offer the same (Regardless of how hard that is for some people to accept, it is true...through Jesus we get inner peace, freedom, heaven...and at NO COST I might add. All of those others require you to do something to gain nirvana, to become a god, etc) So, let me know what you think...
On the other hand, if we could truly coexist as differing religions...then 911 would have never happened. Religion is why the Taliban hates America...and keep in mind, it was not Us-America, that started the war...it isn't just about countries, but something much more important...Religion.

Church or Jesus...

For some reason during church today, I started to think about how so many people go to church to get fixed, or to be changed. On the other hand, a lot of people skip church because they aren't fixed or haven't been changed. Although people do go to church and are often changed, it isn't because they are at church...but rather because they are encountering Jesus. Jesus is who/what transforms lives, not just church. Technically the church should always lead back to Christ and His word. That is what our teaching pastor at church mentioned today...that everything he teaches on should point back to Jesus. This makes so much sense to me...after all, church should ALWAYS lead back to Jesus. He is the reason we can celebrate, that we can have peace and freedom, etc. It makes sense, it isn't just attending church that sets us on the right path...many people show up on Sunday, but how many actually encounter Jesus and grow closer to Him?

Jesus is the one who transforms lives...I truly believe that the more we learn about Jesus, the closer we encounter Him, the more we transform and start to look more like him...are we perfect in this, not a chance. But, I would definitely rather look more like Christ than the world. After all, the world is evil...all you have to do is look at the tv to see how gloomy, depressing, and dark life can be. And if you don't think that Satan has his way in all of that, you are naive. Satan is the great deceiver...so think and examine yourself. Are you looking like one of many in the world, or one of few like Jesus? Not only that, are you plugged in somewhere that is helping you and showing you Jesus? If not, I encourage you to check out some churches...see the authenticity of Jesus not only in the Bible, but in the transformation of lives around you!

Corporal Punishment...

Were ever paddled in school? I was one time, in 6th grade...for talking. (technically, for asking someone to sign my new yearbook) Obviously it made some type of impression, because that was the only time it ever happened. I started thinking about that today while I was listening to other peoples' views on this topic. According to the information I heard, 20 states still allow for corporal punishment (paddling). BUT, as always this day in age...the federal government may be stepping in on this issue. Some congress woman is taking paddling to Congress in hopes that it will be banned from all schools.
A few questions stem from this...has this woman ever taught school or does she have anyone in her family that has taught school? My husband teaches in a middle school...and he would tell you that taking the threat of paddling away has been a huge mistake. Most of these kids are smart when it comes to punishment...they know there isn't much teachers can do to them. A lot of them want to get suspended to miss school, so that isn't a threat. A lot of the parents will admit they can't control or get through to their kids, so calling home to the parents isn't always a threat. Some students have special categories, so you can't get rid of them even if they deserved it. So, what are teachers to do?
Atleast from my understanding, most schools that still allow paddling usually get parental consent first. (meaning the parents sign a consent form and are often called before the paddling actually occurs). I don't see how this is a "n0-no" if parents are allowing their children to be punished in this manner if they did something to deserve it. Obviously if you don't agree with it, then you wouldn't sign the form and opt for a suspension or something else. It's not like your child would get spanked every single day...or they shouldn't.
Just wondering what you think of this issue...even if you don't agree with spanking/paddling...do you think the federal government should take on this issue. Keep in mind that the things that aren't handled by our federal government are turned over to the state level...which is obviously why 20 states allow this, and the others do not. Personally, this would be a big mistake...but if parents actually do their job of discipline at home...it shouldn't get to the point of needed this form of punishment anyway!

New Church Experience

I encourage you to step out of your comfort zone when given the opportunity...we got to do that today for church service! We are going through a members' classes at our church right now, so our morning started early for that. BUT, all of the fun happened afterward...when we usually go to our normal church service.
Today, our church did a partnership with an inner city Memphis church. A mostly African-American church, which was extremely grateful for our presence and welcoming. The experience was as to be expected...charismatic, energetic, good singing, etc...but the coolest part for me came near the end. As worship was coming to an end, the majority of the church held hands...as I shut my eyes, all I could think about was God smiling. God's people, of all backgrounds and colors were ONE for the sake of Christ. What a cool experience...
I have had similar thoughts throughout my church life...so think about that next time you are at church. That all over the world, people of all colors and backgrounds are united...I imagine that God looks at the gathering as a whole and rejoices, yet simultaneously is saddened by those not worshiping on His behalf. Anyway, just imagine next time that everyone throughout the world is connected and looking towards God!

Pregnancy comments...

So I am 22 weeks pregnant and definitely showing...luckily for now I am in the feel good zone! The funniest thing to me is the comments that others make, whether they know you well or not. Earlier this week while working, I went to an office that I hadn't been to in a little over a month. Therefore, they had not seen my ever growing belly. The first nurse made kind remarks, but the 3 other women in this office went a little overboard. "Your belly is huge!" "Are you due in June?" "You are going to be huge at the end."...etc. I actually thought it was pretty funny...and told the lady trying to take up for me that I was in a good mood and truly didn't care. (good thing I am feeling good).

After telling a few other people about this office and their remarks, I couldn't help but think about how open some people are about their comments...it's comical, but could be hurtful if said at the wrong time. Let's face it, I am not the type to only gain 20 lbs...if I keep it under 60 this time I will be happy! I told that office that they could say anything they wanted that day, but next time I may be in a crying mood so they better beware!

So, maybe this is a warning to anyone who has yet to experience pregnancy. People think we (all pregnant women) should look a certain way...and if you don't fit that mold, then beware. I hate to know what they will be thinking at the end of my pregnancy. Heck, I know what I looked like the day I delivered with my daughter a couple of years ago...it wasn't pretty!

Tea Party awareness...

This is my last of the posts for the day (the 3rd if you are paying attention)...tomorrow is a dreaded day for a lot of people...the day taxes are to be returned. So, the TEA PARTY movement is planning their big event tomorrow in Washington DC...obviously on TAX DAY. If you aren't too familiar with this grass roots movement, it has become a big deal for people wanting our government of use tax dollars wisely...not wasting them or getting out of control with new laws that will effect taxes. So, when I heard this next part I thought it was ridiculous.
There is an organization or website that is calling for this big tea party to be infiltrated by those not of the same beliefs...their goal? Their goal is to gain media coverage at the tea party by acting racist, homophobic, or like morons...They claim when the news is interviewing individuals, they want to yell absurd remarks as if that is the belief of the tea party goers. I hope I am making sense...but they want to give a bad misrepresentation of those attending these events to discredit the Tea Party movement.
So, the bottom line is this...the TEA PARTY movement is NOT racist, homophobic, or morons...that is not the reason for this movement. It IS to hold our out of control government accountable. There is no membership or official organization, just A LOT of individuals who are concerned enough to do something and have their voice heard.
I personally have not attended a Tea Party movement, but I know several people who have or would attend if there was a gathering in their area. Are all of these people Republicans? Not at all...that is also the misrepresentation of this group. A lot of independents have not been apart of either party because of government misdeeds...
So just consider this a warning for the news tomorrow...you might see all kind of TEA PARTY coverage tomorrow (or as in times past, it might be downsized by the media and made not to be a big deal) Just know that if there are idiots shown by the media, they are the real representation of the majority...

Day of Silence...for the wrong reason

Have you heard about this? Friday is a Day of Silence in a lot of Middle and High schools across the country...do you know why some are participating in this? Let me inform you...this Day of Silence is part of the homosexual agenda coming to a school near you! The claim is that this silence is to stop bullying of homosexual students. I admit that needs to stop, but bullying in general needs to stop for ALL students. Why does this have to be just for these types of students? Not to mention, wouldn't you agree that this not only politicizes these students and a young age, but it also sexualizes them. Don't get me wrong, I know kids are sexually active at this age, although they definitely shouldn't be. BUT, I don't want any school system supporting a behavior that I fundamentally disagree with. This shouldn't be promoted in schools at all.
Luckily for those of us that are not in favor of this...there seems to be 2 options that are being promoted to alter this homosexual agenda. 1...not to allow kids to attend school if their school is participating in this. After all, schools' funding heavily relies on school attendance and enrollment.
2-Focus on the Family is promoting Friday as a Day of Truth...if you want your kids to use this as an opportunity, then you can hand out cards provided by this organization. From my understanding, this card tells biblical truth and encourages conversations among these students. That way this Day isn't in favor of one agenda, but allows conversation among different beliefs.
You may not think this is a big deal...but it truly is a battle over the next generation. The sooner they are persuaded, the more difficult it may be down the line. I know different families believe different ways, but I just think this is something that should be talked about at home...not in schools.
As I mentioned at the top, we don't want any students to be bullied regardless of the reason. Why publicize this one area of bullying, when students could be bullied for all kinds of reasons: clothing, appearance, family beliefs, their home life, their lack of money, etc...let's face it, kids are cruel. But none of these issues should be singled out...bullying is bullying...regardless of the reason.

Saved By Her Enemy

I am not the most dedicated reader in the world, but I heard about a book today the definitely got my attention. 'Saved By Her Enemy' is written by Rafraf Barrak and Don Teague...Don Teague now works for CBS, but while he was working for NBC years ago he had an interesting encounter on the job in the Middle East. While in Iraq, a young girl was one of the translators assigned to Teague's group. A bomb went off vary close to them...luckily for them the bomb was planted too deep in the ground, so they didn't die as was intended. Teague was eager to leave the region, but realized Rafraf lived there and would probably die if she stayed. So, Teague called his wife in Atlanta to see if he could bring this young lady to the US. According to Rafraf, her view of the US and outside world was what Hussein had allowed them to see...which wasn't much on tv or other media outlets. She thought the US was bad. Needless to say, Teague and his family allowed her to come to the US...raised money to legally keep her here by being enrolled in college...and loved her as family. They were devout Christians and said they believe God wanted them to protect this young girl and give her a better life. She finally asked him why they were doing this...and that was their answer, "Because God wanted them too". Coming from a Muslim background, this was intriguing yet confusing to her. She thought Christianity was bad. To summarize, the love of this family made her curious enough to start attending church. She is now a converted Christian and has told her family back home. Originally they wanted nothing to do with her after her conversion, but they are now on speaking terms.
Sounds like a good read and very encouraging for us Christians to step up and show the love of Christ!

Learn from others...

I feel like I have always learned from others...i see how people parent and realize what I either DO want to be like, or what i DO NOT want to be like. The same can be said for being a professional. Today I was in a doctor's office and another sales representative walked out. After talking with the doctor, I got to listen in on this doctor complaining about the previous rep. This girl was very disrespectful and more than likely will not be allowed back in this particular office. (I got to hear several other stories after this one too). So once again, you can learn from others in your professional career...this was a case of what NOT to do.
Then the biggest lesson learned is the toughest for me to deal with...a good friend of mine (and her family) supposedly lost their home to the bank today. It is so sad that their financial aspect of life has gotten to this point...on the other hand, they haven't been responsible with their money for a long time. It's hard to know this is happening to someone you love, but almost as a parent, you just hope they finally learn from their mishaps. The moral of the story is...don't live outside of your means. If you don't have the extra money, then you may have to give up some of the so called luxuries (i.e.-->dance classes for your child, big birthday party bashes for your child, going to eat at expensive restaurants, driving a higher dollar car when you obviously could have chosen something more normal, upgrading houses when the one you live in is perfectly fitting for your family, etc...) These are just the obvious things they have done over the last couple of years that if done a little differently, may have prevented them from the financial disaster they are in now.
So...learn from others whether good or bad. (As for you who think I am crazy for giving minor details above, I don't think this particular friend ever looks at this...so I feel pretty secure with writing this blog. Although no names were mentioned...keep this family in your prayers. I truly don't think it is possible to go through something like that and have a great life at home, so there has to be some struggle while the family is dealing with this financial crisis)