Henry David Thoreau believed that "The mass of men lead lives of quiet desperation. What is called resignation is confirmed desperation." A different way of living was described by St. Irenaeus: "Man fully alive is the glory of God."
Which way of living describes your life? Deacon Tim felt the need to bring a Christ-inspired enthusiasm to his life, and he shares his resolutions for 2008 in this podcast, as well as some practical tips for getting there. This podcast was a real inspiration to me as I pondered the new year - it's definitely worth passing along to your friends.
To listen right now on your computer, click HERE
To download for your mp3 player, save this link: Download 047_get_a_life.mp3
I have waited so long to hear these positive words! Only kidding, "Deacon Tim" is a spirited fella and always full of surprises. I have learned a lot about being positive when life is challenging which is the true test. God is always on our side and so why not trust that, and express it with word and deed? Good show - sending it out to many...Hope they tune in.
Posted by: Connie (Tim's wife) | January 07, 2008 at 09:53 PM
Good luck with your resolution Dad. If you're successful though I may not recognize you when we meet in May.
Posted by: Dan | January 08, 2008 at 05:48 PM
Cindy, I really enjoyed listening and I did check my email while I was doing it. You both make great points about optimism and the nature of man and God. I've always been pretty good at living in the moment but lack the ability to reflect on it or something. I'll start listening. I also enjoy the website Beliefnet. Thanks for the grocery store tip!
Posted by: Becky Blackwood | January 09, 2008 at 02:03 PM
Cyndi....knitting and a new puppy!!!
How exciting! That puppy will bring life and work and fun into your family! Please somehow show us a picture when you get it.
And well, you can imagine my joy at hearing you are taking up knitting. Some day we will meet and we will knit and talk and laugh and enjoy life :o)
Now, Deacon Tim, I had a revelation of sorts when you were talking....
I think God wants you to take dancing lessons with your wife.
Really!
Be like David.
Dance for joy ;o)
Posted by: Miz Booshay | January 13, 2008 at 04:47 PM
Knitting? Dancing? G-d loveth a joyful heart...Donna, I believe you might have hit on something there. If Cyndi can knit, Donna can post a recipe a day, I can pause for a moment or two before telling people exactly what I think...than, Tim can dance! We definitely need progress photos.
Posted by: linda | January 13, 2008 at 06:56 PM
he he
Oh Linda, you are both funny and sweet!!!
Posted by: Miz Booshay | January 13, 2008 at 07:26 PM
Without having the benefit of these comments, I spent much of this past Saturday evening dancing with my wife and 4 daughters to the music of a band which played oldies from the 60's. So I'm off to a good start.
Posted by: Deacon Tim | January 13, 2008 at 09:01 PM
Hooray!
Now, that really makes me smile :o)
Posted by: Miz Booshay | January 13, 2008 at 10:28 PM
NO WAY!
Posted by: Linda | January 13, 2008 at 10:36 PM
Man fully alive is the glory of God - I absolutely LOVE that. I need to listen to these podcast every Monday - and not wait a week.
Wasn't it brother Lawrence who wrote about washing dishes for the Lord - enjoying that mundane task because his attitude was on enjoying God and not the mundane task?
I need my routines. They keep me stable and sane but they can burn me out when I let them become mundane and it's all attitude. I have recently decided to look out the upkeep of the house as an opportunity for exercise. Mopping, vacuuming, cleaning toilets have to be done and I will be more joyful to myself and my family if I look at these as opportunities and not drudgery. Thanks guys!
Cyndi - you'll love australian shepherds. We have one - very, very clever and train them early or they'll manipulate you.
Posted by: Barb | January 14, 2008 at 11:14 AM
Wow! Is that the man I used to work for? Way to go, Tim! (I hope you can sense the "pep" in my tone)
"I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now,. . . It is right for me to feel this way about all of you, since I have you in my heart; for whether I am in chains or defending and confirming the gospel, all of you share in God’s grace with me. God can testify how I long for all of you with the affection of Christ Jesus." Philippians 1:3-5, 7-8
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Posted by: Angela | January 16, 2008 at 06:47 PM