General A-K

Pennies from Heaven

Poem from heaven -shiny penny on pavement

Remember this every time you pass a little penny in the parking lot. I always thought it was for Good Luck, but I like this version better. — Author Unknown I found a penny today Just laying on the ground, But it’s not just a penny This little coin I’ve …

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The Richest Man in the World

By Guy Finley (Used with permission)

There was once a small community of people who lived in a remote valley surrounded on all sides by huge, towering mountains. Although the mountains protected the township from the severe weather common to the area, they also prevented the residents from accessing fertile fields located nearby.

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Tales of a Teacher: Terraces

grapes and valley of terraces

-- by James A. Plambeck, Copyright 1995

A teacher was walking with his students . . .

A bit further along, the road turned to the right around a hill and a steep valley opened before them. The hillside above them was barren and rocky, but across the valley terraces had been built with rocks to hold the earth. A vineyard had been planted on the terraces, and they could see the green color of the vines and even the purple of ripening grapes. He looked across the valley, then sat down on a stone at the edge of the road and taught them.

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The Father Forgives

Hands holding a rosary


As the Father of the man whom you took part in murdering, I have something very important to say to you. I forgive you. With all My heart, I forgive you. I realize it may be hard for you to believe, but I really do.

At the trial, when you confessed to your part in the events that cost My Son his life and asked for My forgiveness, I immediately granted you that forgiving love from My heart. I can only hope you believe Me and will accept My forgiveness.

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And They Crucified Him

Christ and 2 others crucified

-- Author Unknown

A medical doctor provides a physical description:

The cross is placed on the ground and the exhausted man is quickly thrown backwards with his shoulders against the wood. The legionnaire feels for the depression at the front of the wrist. He drives a heavy, square wrought-iron nail through the wrist deep into the wood. Quickly he moves to the other side and repeats the action, being careful not to pull the arms too tightly, but to allow some flex and movement. The cross is then lifted into place. The left foot is pressed backward against the right foot, and with both feet extended, toes down, a nail is driven through the arch of each, leaving the knees flexed. The victim is now crucified.

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A Friend

group of friends of all colors

By Stephen Wayne Modawell

Where do they come from
Ones who just appear in life
Some finer than rum
Others closer than man an'wife

They may not be old
without them, what was before
Their warmth, on days' cold
Their presence we seek but more
 
How we want many
Yet we find so very few
treasured like a new penny
Their value great, one will do

When found, never let go
Too many years may pass, you see
Before God allows to flow
The gift of a friend like thee.

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Friendship Sonnets

My oath to you

When you are sad, I will dry your tears.
When you are scared, I will comfort your fears.
When you are worried, I will give you hope.
When you are confused, I will help you cope.
When you are lost, and can't see the light,
I shall be your beacon, shining ever so bright.
This is my oath to you, I pledge ‘til the end.  
Why? You may ask... because you are my friend.


I have a friend

Around the corner I have a friend,

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Bricklayer’s Accident Report

You think you've had a bad day or two in your time? They probably pale in comparison to this guy's 'bad day.' This bricklayer's accident report, which was printed in the newsletter of the Australian equivalent of the Workers' Compensation Board.  This is a true story, but it's possibly the funniest story in a long while.

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Maple Tree Management

-- by Judy Wogoman

One of the things that convinced me to buy my house was the trees.  Especially the big maple tree at the corner of the lot.  Huge, perfectly formed, the maple tree dominates the front yard.

There are lessons to be learned from nature, when we slow down enough to be taught. Here are some observations on "maple tree" management.

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