Archive | DiVoran Lites My Take- Monday RSS feed for this section

Voracious, and Novel Cure

16 Nov

1

My Take

DiVoran Lites

Author, Poet and ArtistYesterday, I went to the SPCA to cancel a pickup appointment I had made for a desk. I’d realized how fond I was of that desk and that I wanted to keep it, so no pickup.

While I was in the thrift store I bought a hard-cover book for a dollar. It’s a romantic suspense novel by Elizabeth Lowell called, Amber Beach. I then went to the library and searched the donation shelves as usual, but this time I found nothing to buy.

In the new books section however, Voracious: A hungry reader cooks her way through great books, by Cara Nicoletti waited. Who wouldn’t want to read about books and food in the same tome? Cara Nicoletti grew up spending time in her grandfather’s butcher shop and eventually became a butcher, baker, (but not candlestick maker) herself. She always loved books and many of the days in the shop were spent sitting behind the cash-register reading. In Voracious she writes about the books she has read and offers her own recipes for many of the dishes she found described there. The first is, “Little House in the Big Woods Breakfast Sausage.” Cara also teaches sausage making classes. I probably will just read the recipes and maybe they’ll change my cooking for the better by osmosis. I do love this type of memoir and this one has everything you could ask for. I took it to the desk and checked it out. It’s good and I recommend it.

When I got home, Novel Cure filled my mail box in a brown wrapper from an Amazon source. I was pretty excited about getting that one. It will last a good long time. It’s so jam-packed with witty writings about novels that I can’t spare the time to count them all. Novel Cure is a bibliotherapy book meant to help people select novels that show characters as either good or bad role models and can help with all kinds of mental and emotional hurricanes. I wasn’t as interested in using it for my personal aberrations as for the enjoyment of reading about books in a book written by witty and educated writers like Ella Berthound and Susan Elderkin. Someday I may run into one of them in a discard situation.

When I pulled the Novel Cure from its envelope I had a decision to make. Which one should I open first? It was like trying to decide whether to have a chocolate sundae with nuts or just a little dish of mint chocolate chip ice cream. Since the Novel Cure is a dense, thick book and I can keep it as long as I want, I decided to go for the library book first. I could read, Elizabeth Lowell’s Amber Beach any time and then if I liked it share it with my neighbor.

I realize that one of my favorite subjects for book is books. I have a yellowed copy of Parnassus on Wheels by Christopher Marley, copyright 1917. Of course mine is a later edition. I’ve read it twice and plan to read it again soon. So far it’s my favorite except for one I had by an author I can’t remember (nor can I recall the title) but I can probably find it again someday if I try. Of course none of them is only about books. They’re about characters and what they do and what happens to them. That’s what I like. If they’re well done they’re the memoirs, too, of the people who compiled them.

Another book I’m thrilled with right now is The Singer Trilogy, by Calvin Miller: the mythic retelling of the story of the New Testament. I guess that makes it about a book, doesn’t it? It consists of Singer, The Song, and The Finale. I loved it so much that I have purchased it on Audible so I can listen to it on my phone. I haven’t read anything that so jolted my soul and spirit or that gave me so much hope and encouragement since I started reading the Bible over 60 years ago. I got, The Singer from the church library discard shelf. I couldn’t believe it had been left there. Was it just for me?

At Calvary sung by Linda Randall

Voracious: yummybooks.com (blogs)

Caution to vegetarians, Ms Nicoletti is a butcher and some pictures on the website would be for other butchers to admire. But those of us whose parent was a butcher can probably either enjoy or overlook them.

Tags: , , ,

The Correction Game

9 Nov

My Take

DiVoran Lites

Author, Poet and Artist

Beloved

(I believe God is giving me a challenge, and I wanted to share the idea with you. We’d love to hear what happens if you try it.)

The Father says something like this: I would like to play a challenging new game with you. It concerns changing a longstanding habit. We’ll call it The Correction Game. It’s a challenge few can meet, but remember, I am the helper and I’m here to help. You will receive a golden-glory-God-gift* for every point you make.

A word to start, this is a game where making a point means not making a point. It is called, “The Correction Game,” because when you play, you will change from showing off how wise and smart you are, to letting someone else feel worthwhile. It’s one way to express Our love, yours and mine.

Now this is just for casual conversation and every day exchanges and it’s a game. I will tell you any time I want you to do otherwise and you will correct only in important matters and then use only the words I give you.

Your mother told you: “Politeness is to do and say, the kindest thing in the kindest way.” Stick to that and you’ll be a good player.

For example when you’re playing the game and a person of another language says stinking instead of stinging, let it go.

When someone you love won’t listen, let it go and give them permission to talk. Invite them to play the game.

1When someone says that apples grow on orange trees and the moon is square, remember you don’t know everything. Perhaps somewhere in the universe these things are true, let it go.

It’s my job to correct people and I have all kinds of gentle ways to do it. I am able to take care of what you perceive as mistakes of others. By the way, my dear, you’ll enjoy people a lot more and they’ll like you better, too. Overlooking the faults and mistakes of others sends a big message of unconditional love.

Try me now in this and see if you don’t receive blessings of serendipity and synchronicity that will thrill you in large and small ways.

*God’s-golden-glory-gifts happen when unexpected good things come into your life.

 

Beloved, Let us Love One Another

 

Tags: ,

Beloved Mortal

2 Nov

My Take

DiVoran Lites

Author, Poet and Artist

I call you beloved. Dear you are mine.

I love you. I need you. You are so fine.

I call you mortal ‘cause human you are.

Each time you follow, I send you a star.

Together we conquer sadness and pain.

When it’s all over, our bond will remain.

I’ll never leave or forsake you, that’s sure.

For all your troubles, dear, I have the cure.

Look for my tangible work in your world.

Inside your soul flies my spirit unfurled.

 

Photo by DiVoran

Photo by DiVoran

Tags: , ,

Smiles

27 Oct

1

 

A word from DiVoran

 Because I remember her brothers from our childhood, I particularly loved this email from my friend, Patricia. Sometimes I was invited for supper at the Franklins and it was a world of difference from eating in a restaurant-booth with my one younger brother, though I do love my brother. Patricia had five brothers– riches indeed! What I liked most about them was that they were so sweet and funny. Patricia and I were in our eleventh and twelfth years and her bothers ranged from about eight to sixteen. Patricia has always been petite, but she never had any trouble handling all those boys and even enjoying being with them.

Now I’ll let you get to Patricia’s story

Patricia

I went to the funeral of a friend this week.  She was always relaxed, pleasant, and friendly no matter what, and had a wonderful sense of humor.  She was also a leader, planner, and song leader in our prayer group. She had suffered from cancer, and knew the end was near.  She planned the simple service, including the songs.  It was very simple and wonderful.  I also noticed she, in her witty little way, included some readings for her family. I smiled through the whole service and whenever I think of her, I have to smile.  I understood that her last words to the pastor were: “Well, father, see you in heaven.” The pastor smiled, I’m sure.

Today, we went to a breakfast in the social room at the church my friend had attended.  On the way in, we met a widower we know, and asked him to sit with us.  As I was looking around, I saw my friend’s brother by himself (the brother of the lady who died).  I motioned for him to join us. A smile lit up his face and he hurried over.  Another widower came in and we gestured for him to come over too.  The four of us enjoyed some great stories together.

When we go to the ranch country where my husband grew up, we go out to meals or coffee with several of his lifelong friends. A lot of times I’m the only woman. We have a lot to talk about. One time they were trying to recall something and the suggestion came: “We should ask the old-timers. We are the Old Timers.” Everybody smiled that time.

I’ve often felt left out because we didn’t live where either of us had grown up. That’s what gives me the tendency to look for others who might be alone too.  At breakfast that day, I turned around and saw another parishioner eating alone, so I invited him to come and sit with us. We were all enjoying getting better acquainted and sharing stories.   About that time, a woman dressed as a nurse came up and speaking directly to me said, “You and your five men come on over to the health fair across the parking lot. It is free.”  I was startled the way she said it, but then I had to smile.  Yes, I always seem to end up with a bunch of guys, I have since I was a kid, and didn’t think a thing about it.  I don’t know what she was thinking.   I was just thinking how people do not seem to smile much anymore, and had decided to make a special effort to make it happen. When it does, it’s heavenly, and none of us feel lonely anymore.

 

 

 

Tags: , , , ,

Like David Danced

26 Oct

My Take

DiVoran Lites

1

When people began to tell me about their line dance classes and what good exercise they were and how much fun it was, and when I discovered that there is a line dance class at my church five minutes away, I decided to give it a try.

That’s where I was yesterday between 10 and 11:00 AM. I wanted to see if I had the stamina and brain-power to learn the steps. It was supposed to be a beginner’s class

Even though I’m older now, I have never lost my love of dancing. I still get carried away in my own kitchen. My friend Patricia says she does the same. Unlike his wife, Michael, I know it was right for King David to express his joy before the Lord in dance.

At first the teacher who is also a senior (according to AARP standards) tried to show me every step and make sure I got it before we moved on. She even raised her voice at me once (and she was wearing a mike.) That’s when I turned to jelly inside and thought I’d better scoot away while I could. But somehow I got the courage to ignore my fear and soldier on.

Soon I was on my own keep up or not. We did about half a dozen songs and each of them had some or one new (to me) step.

One of the dancers suggested I get in the middle of the small group of ten. That way I could see somebody’s feet no matter which way we turned. In a way it was a good idea, in a way, it wasn’t. I’m like a kid when it comes to distraction. One woman had the most colorful and beautiful athletic shoes I had ever seen. Another had sandals that laced up her ankle, but she didn’t know the steps as well. A gentleman in front of me wore black cowboy boots. I probably should have been watching his feet all along.

Every once in while the teacher says, “How are we doing.” I realize she is speaking to me and I shoot back, “Good!” If I can’t quite turn at the right time, if I’m going east when everyone else faces west, if I have to make up my own steps, well, I’ve decided to enjoy myself. I’m loving the catchy songs and I feel a genuine smile blooming. I think maybe I have received help and courage from a higher power.

After 1 hour and six different dances I hear again, “How are we doing?”

“I am completely flummoxed and tired, but I’m having a good time,” I answer. Many voices assured me that this wasn’t a beginner’s class as I had thought. That made me feel a bit better. Now, I want to go back, but I don’t want to mess up the class. I left with a half- promise, “I’ll be back.” I should have added the old Western saying, “Good Lord willin’ and the crick don’t rise.”

Tags: , , ,

We’ve a Story to Tell

19 Oct

My Take

DiVoran Lites

1

Author, Poet and ArtistWe had dinner with Bill’s sister, Judy, and her husband, Fred, the other night. We do that at least once a month. October was different, though, because this time the Wills’ daughter, Karen, and her husband, Brian Clements joined us, as did our son, Bill.

Karen and her husband, Brian, are going into the new adventure of being missionaries with Greater Europe Mission (GEM). They have two grown children and live in the Chicago area. Karen is a buyer of children’s books at their town library and Brian, until recently has worked for the Baxter Healthcare Corporation. Both are well-educated and skilled in various disciplines. Now they have been called to become missionaries to the world and they are raising their support. They love their new job, though Karen hopes to stay with the library part-time as long as the Lord allows.

The statistics state that only 2% of the people in Europe are Christians now, so it’s exciting to be this close to a small part of the action.

The organization was started by a World War II Navy chaplain, Robert P. Evans, in 1949 who was also part of the Billy Graham Youth for Christ movement.

Karen’s grandfather was a Military chaplain, too. Karen and Brian were teens when Brian’s dad was the pastor of the English-language church in Heidelberg. Fred and Judy worked tirelessly in many areas of the church. Brian and Karen were 14 when they met, and by then, they had both fully given their lives to Jesus. They married several years later in America. What a match!

Because Brian and Karen have been church leaders in their home area near Chicago for twenty-two years, have reared two successful children, and Brian has been to seminary, they also have a great deal to teach children and parents about how to link up with God and how to run a home. Besides that they are just plain dear and hard-working people. We love them and they love us.

Brian has been working informally with GEM for a year and will be helping tend to some of the business side of the organization. Naturally, he travels, but he also regularly uses Skype as well. He (and sometimes Karen) will be helping the team to teach four new-missionary conferences in Colorado Springs every year. In between conferences Brian will contribute his business experience as well as his ability to mentor newer, younger team-members.

In the European countries, every job applicant is required to speak English. Brian enjoyed working with the GEM team that successfully negotiated for an academy in Madrid where immigrants will be able to learn to speak it. They’ll have access to computers, but more to the point they’ll have a chance to meet our Lord Jesus. The hope is that someday they can move back to their own countries taking Christianity and their new life-empowerment with them. If you’re flying around on the Internet someday and have time, take a look at the GEM organization and the new ways in which they are trying to reach the people of the world.Here’s what our friend and blog-mistress, Onisha, had to say about this news.

“Gem Missions sounds like a wonderful opportunity to serve. For some reason, I feel like I have heard of them from someone else. I am sure Judy was glad to have Karen and her husband visit with them and will offer their support too. Europe is a fine mission field, especially with all the refugees flooding the countries.  I read one person who said American Christians should not complain about all the Muslims settling here, but should think of it as God sending the mission field to us. That really stuck with me.”

I agree with what Onisha has written and I’d like to add that our omniscient Father is seeing to it that they’ll learn the language that is quickly becoming a means of communication for everyone in the world.

We’ve a Story to Tell to the Nations

Tags: ,

Trials and Tribulations

12 Oct

My Take

DiVoran Lites

Author, Poet and ArtistThis morning Bill had a procedure in a different town from where we live. It’s something we’re very grateful he can do because it means knows no surgery. Is called a TUMT  I’ll be driving Bill home because he’s having Valium and a pain pill for the procedure. I’ll be doing some waiting so I have my small art case all ready to go. I have the tiniest palette you ever saw, crayons, inktense pencils, and a multi-media sketchbook and they all fit into the case, along with a water pen to paint with.

I plan to leave the office while he’s in the back to take my morning walk. I’ll be sure to have my hat to shade my face. I’ve put on sun-screen, but I haven’t been in the habit of wearing it and have been bitten by the sun because of it. I have the cosmetic surgeon’s scar to show for it. I didn’t use sunscreen all these years because I heard that it wouldn’t allow my skin to absorb vitamin D from the sun. That reminded me of my mother, Dora, telling me she had rickets as a child. That was caused by a lack of sunshine. Her legs were slightly bowed for the rest of her life. Now I wonder if she got it soon after she was held indoors in quarantine for nine months because she had scarlet fever. Her baby brother died earlier of a disease they called St Vitus Dance.

On Bill’s and my jaunt I can do whatever I want with my phone. I can look up a youtube video for a hymn for this blog. Here it is! Nearer My God to Thee, and what a pleasure – beautiful video and words to the song included.

I’m taking a box of raisins in case I get peckish and a cup of ice water for thirst. We should be home in time for lunch.

We’re home now. Bill had no pain, but he was ready for a nap. All these medical procedures can wear a body out but like the energizer bunny, through the grace of God, we keep on keeping on.

Yellow and Green Thistle signed

Tags: ,

Forgive My Trespass

5 Oct

My Take

DiVoran Lites

Author, Poet and ArtistYesterday I took a walk in a different town. It wasn’t a good place for walking. The cars zoomed by and eventually the sidewalk ran out. I had a bit more time before I had to go back to where I had started, so I thought I’d keep going. I came to a shady neighborhood street and saw a sign. “Nursery, everything 70% off,” it said.

Two houses from the corner I came to a yard with a huge ear tree and a lot of plants in it.A giant pothos grew high into the ear tree’s branches, a giant staghorn fern swayed in a slight breeze. Beautiful pottery birdhouses swung from its branches.

It was a shady place on a hot day, and although I didn’t need any plants, I thought I’d walk around looking at things. I noticed that the grass in the backyard grew almost to the top of the chain-link fence. These people are probably elderly and just can’t keep up the property, I thought. A lot of people have antique and thrift stores to house their collections, maybe that’s what’s happening here.

I finished strolling about looking at the plants and flowers and was just ready to leave when a woman came out of the house.

“Are you looking for something?” said she. “This is private property.”

“Oh, I’m so sorry. I thought it was the nursery. It’s really beautiful.”

She didn’t seem to want to accept my apology, so I turned to go. She followed, talking about the plants and how hard it was to keep everything up. She showed me a long scar under her arm and said she’d had surgery.

I kept trying to leave without being rude. She followed. She pointed down the street. “The nursery is where the big recycle bin is.”

I could see that the recycle bin was as far as I had already walked. I looked at my watch. Sure enough it was time to head back. She didn’t follow past the parameters of her yard and she obviously didn’t forgive me. I put myself in her place, however, and I knew it would frighten me to see someone roaming around my front yard. I did have a brief thought that seeing another person for a minute might relieve loneliness for a while. I asked God to bless her big time.

I went back to the doctor’s office to meet Bill. While I sat waiting for him, I heard the receptionist make several phone calls to remind people of appointments. She didn’t talk too fast, she could pronounce all the words, she was polite and her voice was beautiful.

Somehow I thought about a time long ago when I was in a grocery store with my Grandmother, Marie Bowers. When we approached the check-out, I said, “That woman has beautiful eyes.”

“When you notice something nice about someone, you must tell them,” Grandmother said.

I went up to the receptionist, excused myself and said, “You have the most beautiful manner I ever heard.”

She all but grabbed me across the desk. “Oh thank you. You’ve made my day! I can’t remember the last time I had a compliment. Sometimes I put my arms around myself and say nice things, just so I can get some approval from somebody.” You can imagine how good that made me feel.  I like approval, too. I don’t like to trespass and not be forgiven for it. I had done something right and I was grateful for the camaraderie that sprang from following Grandmother’s advice.

(FYI, none of these pictures are of the yard I mistook for a nursery.}

Matthew 6:12

Tags: , , , , , ,

The Terror of the Night

28 Sep

My Take

DiVoran Lites

Terror of the Night png

Psalm 91:5

In the darkness of the night,
I awaken, filled with fright.
I get out of cozy bed,
Bugs a buzzing in my head.
All my joy is left behind.
Where can I find peace of mind?

Oh, what if…my worry cries
What if someone precious dies?
What if I am all alone?
How, for that, could I atone?

“Come to Jesus,” says a voice.
You will always have a choice.
Will you hand to me this knot?
I will calm you on the spot.
Can you praise and thank me now,
Knowing I will act somehow?

Where could I go?

Tags: , , ,

Writing and Painting

21 Sep

My Take

DiVoran Lites

Author, Poet and ArtistWhen I started writing blogs for Old Things R-New and Rebekah Lyn Books, I was working on the novel, Go West and enjoying it immensely. Painting had taken a back seat and I thought I was over it. But people kept saying they liked my prints and the paintings on my walls and when I remembered how much I enjoyed splashing paint around. My fingers began to itch for a brush. The more I painted, the more I neglected the things I thought I ought to be doing. I wrote out several long talks with the Lord asking how I could find time to paint and to keep up with my writing goals, as well and he gave me some new ideas. Finally, my angel, and enabler Onisha and I sat at a table in the Target Starbucks and talked it over. I had also been writing paraphrases from the Bible and I wanted to illustrate them. Onisha suggested we serialize the novel and use it instead of blogs and she liked the idea of the Promise Posters too. So now, I’m painting and writing and I’m having a wonderful time. If you see any Go West illustrations or Promise Posters you’d like to buy, they will be available as framable art and note cards at www.creativeartworks.com. Come join me in my new big adventure.

Read more about DiVoran’s adventures  Writing and Painting

Tags: , , , , ,

← Older Entries
Newer Entries →