Love and Kindness

As I sit here I am having a difficult time putting down what has been going through my mind and what I'd like to share (adding with what can be an in-depth subject) I want to keep it simple hoping it relevant to what is being shared.  The chosen title could probably include "getting along," as people seem to struggle in this department as we've witnessed over the past decade or so. People every where, even in families are lacking the ability to get along (agree to disagree) with love and kindness. Maybe it's just me ~

People use the word kindness as part of their profiles, and descriptive intros into their Instagram and Facebook pages, as well as when sharing - in ways - pointing out faults of others. On the flip - you could say that love and kindness which a person shares daily is much like living out "Christianity" it is indeed a lifestyle not simply a religion that people use to hide behind and continue pointing out the faults of others. As one professing to be Christian, over the years I have always put forth the effort to not practiced this behavior, however, (We all have faults, yes?) As it is clearly stated in Romans 3:10,12 ESV

"None is righteous, no, not one; .  .  .  no one does good not even one."

The verses I shared in part speak volumes. I'm not saying you have to be a Christian to live a loving and kind lifestyle, but it does depict (should) a believers life who has a relationship with Jesus. 

"as it is written:  

            "None is righteous, no not one; no one understands; no one seeks for God. All have turned aside; together they have become worthless; no one does good, not even one." Romans 3:10-12 

It clearly states what shape the heart of man is in. No one is perfect, we have faults, we make mistakes, we can be prideful and self-centered, worldly, loveless and unkind - even live a life not seeing we are in the state we are in.  My gram would say, "a sad state of affairs we find ourselves." 

Everyone can have issues and bad days - we can even strive to do better and be "good," all the while trying to figure out why things are the way they are.  Why others do as they do and wishing things were different. While in turn not truly making a difference or helping things to improve.  Just wanting "others" to be more loving and kind. 

"Bad behavior from others should not define who you are." 

The older I get I still recognize and share frequently, our responses can be a true test of who we are in growth and maturity, how much time we invest in our relationship with the Lord can be shown through or day by our response with others. It can tell us quickly who we are and whether we need more "growth"and change within ourselves. (always).

I'm sure we've all experienced in conversations, if we are able to have an honest one, how unpleasant it can be when there are disagreements - pick any subject it doesn't matter - when fingers are pointing out as it literally goes in that direction even before a conversation starts, there is no love or kindness with an already negative formed opinion - or ever getting along. In families reconciliations sometimes never happen, people give up stating 'so and so' will never change, this is how they are and have always been .  .  .  I've made this mistake myself and when it comes to mind - hoping to seek forgiveness. But I'm not talking here about outside influences as with - "show me who your friends are and I'll tell you who you are." But if truth be told even if that were so, either way we can do better in our responses.

Love and kindness should start with us when responding to others, how we communicate - yes, not always easy; mostly we could look at re-wording instead of flying off the top of our heads and by stepping in with love and that "kindness."  How bout - putting any and all pride aside, maybe a competitive side of having to be heard, it happens. God hears us, He can and will definitely work out all the details. (We need to be willing to let Him help, it's easier that why.) My husband used to say don't send that first draft. Also there will be misunderstanding and mis-interpretations when trying to have in-depth conversation with what was meant for sound bites.

All that I shared, I could share more, are bits and pieces of things I've been thinking recently from current conversations, reading old blog posts about love and Valentines, with a confirmed viewing of a couple scripture verses I wrote down several years ago about how much God loves us and gives us instructions on how to share love and kindness - getting along ~

Love

Who is a God like thee, who pardons iniquity and passes over the rebellious act of the remnant of His possessions? He does not retain His anger forever, because He delights in unchanging love. Micah 7:18 NASB (He's love is unchanging, I'm thankful - Amen)

So in one of my old little notebooks that had the corner chewed - I had Romans 14:1-23 listed - I'll share in part, I will say that it isn't necessarily about what I'm posting about today, it has valid points to consider when "getting along" with others. Much like today the Christians of the day were disgruntled when Paul wrote Romans. Paul was conveying how they/we should get along, they were concerned over secondary matters much like today. Sadly when we squabble over little things it can set the tone for important ones.

Romans 14, is about principles of conscience and self denial on behalf of others - I love little topical references in my old Bible. I hope you take the time to read the chapter for yourself. 

The verses I chose to share fit well with my title.  I'm using different translations in hopes that everyone can take away something useful while being encouraged.

(1) Now accept the one (other believers NIV) who is weak in faith, but not for the purpose of passing judgement on his opinions. NASB  [without quarreling over disputable matters. NIV] 

Remember this chapter speaks of the disagreements that was happening over food and days reconized. Again, Paul wrote instructions that can be applied to other matters for us today. 

(13) Therefore let us not judge (criticize AMP, stop passing judgement NIV) one another anymore, but rather determine this - not to put an obstacle or a stumbling block in a brother's way. NASB

(17) for the kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but righteousness (living a life of goodness NLT)  and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. NASB

(18) For he who is this way serves Christ is acceptable to God and approved (favorable opinion of) by men. NASB.    Serving the Anointed One by walking in these kingdom realities pleases God and earns the respect of others. TPT - Simply Everyone enjoys a fitting reply; it is wonderful to say the right thing at the right time! Proverbs 15:23 Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body Pr 16:24 NLT   A little leaven (yeast) leavens the whole lump. Galatians 5:9 ESV (leaven can be a good example of kindness or criticism).    (18) If you serve Christ with this attitude, you will please God and others will approve of you, too. NLT

Lastly, Chapter 14 and into 15 are wonderful verses to think on. I can certainly speak for myself when I say and by what I observe, Yes, we all can do better, I know I can for today.  

For whatever was written in earlier times was written for our instruction, that through perseverance and the encouragement of Scriptures we might have hope. Now may the God who gives perseverance and encouragement grant you to be of the same mind with one another according to Christ Jesus; that with one accord you may voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.  Romans 15:4-6 NASB 

Amen

Memories ~

12:28.24

My mind is full of memories from when I was a child. I suppose most people think of times past, around the Christmas season, though not all has to be related to Christmas. There are things you may hear or see that triggers a memory. You could say reflections and my recollection of memories.

One memory that has always been dear to me was practicing on my gram's piano the song Toyland written in 1903 by Victor Herbert, not that I'm that old I just grew-up with my gram. Well, Toyland has been played over the years around Christmas, and in the movie "Babes in Toyland" that usually aired that time for us classic buffs. Though I was learning to play I don't know if relatives and friends alike were aware that my Gram and dad played piano, actually my dad played many instruments,  I can't fully remember which one was teaching me how to play Toyland, maybe both, but I do remember I started with this song. I was very young, I imagine around seven or eight possibly younger.

My dad's brother would tell us stories of my dad sitting at the piano with me playing Toyland, he'd say darn if it didn't sound good!  Sadly, for me it didn't go anywhere. One year we traveled to Arizona staying a short few months only having to leave as my gram's brother was very ill. I don't remember if he passed away before returning or shortly after, that was tough for me - he and I were pals. I was also sad to find not only my grams piano gone with any future lessons, but my bike and little treasures I collected. 

I was heart broken especially not to be able to pal around with my Uncle Russ.

Which brings another memory to mind with Uncle Russ that was triggered recently while I was in a feed store. 

Aw - just a moment ~ it turned out to be a beautiful day so I'm outside for the first time - ever - possibly - enjoying this moment.  .  . now back to a memory, ;)

While in the feed store I happened to notice a tube of Veterinary Liniment Gel on the counter. I picked it up and inquired if this was for humans as well, since Veterinary was on the packaging. I also remembered the liquid was used for horses. Anyway, I answered my own question and shared this story with the clerk. When I was a young girl I was always hanging out with my Uncle Russ feeding and watching the chickens or checking out what the cow was doing. One day we finished up and headed in for our treat of molasses milk. but Uncle Russ went into the living room and sat down on an ottoman asking Aunt Millie to get the liniment for his lower back it was hurting bad. So she did. The Liniment wasn't in a gel but liquid and when she started to put in on his lower back it ran down through a spot you normally see on silly plumbers and he let out a yell, one I never heard before! I decided right then I'd never use the stuff! Well I bought it and thought my dad could try it. ha ha So bringing it home I said, "dad I saw this and thought it might work on your joints that have been hurting." He then said, what! I think I have some, sure enough a large bottle just sitting on the shelf behind him. So I kept the tube of liniment gel - I've been using it myself and it works pretty good, it's even better since it can't run away to places its not suppose to and shouldn't! 

It's still beautiful out I'm not sure how much I'll get to on this post ~ !2.31.24

Here it is day 6 into a new year and Happy New Year!

It's so true that memories can be triggered by things we see and hear, as stories and music whether happy or sad.  I hope the thoughts and memories you have are happy to visit once in awhile.

As a child I had the best times at this old farm house. It was my great grand parents, built by their son. He also built a house next door for him and his wife. There was also a cabin that some were born in that burnt down - I would've loved to have seen it or had picture. The big house was splint down the middle so to speak, where my Uncle Russ and Aunt Millie lived and after mom (great gram) passed away it was filled with another sib and family. This farm was a Childs paradise with places to hide, forts to build, grass to run, and hills to climb, woods to venture and hike, and even just past the pasture before hitting some woods a running creek. Even the field was spent playing ball and the dirt roads were our track to race cousins on our bikes. There were chickens to feed and a cow to milk, food and stories to tell around the table. I miss it! It seemed like simpler from a kids persecutive - as an adult I know the work was hard.  My Uncle Russ and I would venture out and discuss the animals and when done we'd go into the house to enjoy a glass of molasses milk and - believe it or not, since it's me, circus peanuts that I can't even look at anymore! lol The milk is another story, :)

My husband and I spent so much time traveling. When we finally got out of the CG we settled only to move to where we thought we'd stay. For the most part there our boys were able to do some of the things I did growing up. At least I hope they had enjoyed the times together with each other and good friends they made. Still I sure would have loved them to have had that old farm house. I think when moving around - yes, you might grow while seeing many new things that those who stay put don't, however, those who move around sometimes loose out on some things that those who stay put have. (I don't even know if that makes any sense!) I was always thankful for those I met at church we fellowshipped with. They were our family away from family. We were so blessed to have everyone of them in our lives.

One last memory to share since we just had Christmas. When I was young I so loved the wooded hollow this time of the year, frankly, any area where the trees are glistening with snow. OH so beautiful. Well, when looking across the hollow from the road you could see the house, since the trees were bare or dusted with snow, you could see all the way to my gramma's window. She had a big picture window where she placed her tree.  You could see the lights on the tree that looked so big and beautiful.  When reaching the house and entering only to find with surprise a 2 foot high Christmas tree! There it was, sitting on an end table front and center of the window, every year she used that tree. I loved it. I think my brother still has that tree. :) I sure wished I had a picture to share.

I believe, and this is my opinion, that memories can be good but you are not to stay, indefinably, for the Lord has a beautiful life planned for those who are His. Are you one?

From that kid in me, my memories I hold dear, however, I'm believing that the best is yet to come. "I know that God has the best yet to come" His word tells us so. It's important we move forward.

For I know the plans I have for you, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Jeremiah 29:11 NIV 

Not only that - as His daughter through my relationship with Him, I have a story, a testimony (many) - which is something I share here. We all do. I'm sure if you take a look back throughout your life whether you were a 'believer' or not, honestly take a look how you got through what seemed to be impossible times and challenges. Through prayers of others, prayers you conveyed as if into the air through longings and all the while not recognizing God was listening and answering out of His love for you. As if a miracle happened. Maybe not all who are reading this post but many of you. He's waiting.

To hold on to the past as in never moving forward is a mistake. I love going to Dos Cabezas in Willcox, AZ, the owner has little quotes on the cup sleeves. A recent sleeve said, "Don't look back you're not going that way." (a wise quote I'd say) I always use this scripture verse for the New Year, Philippians 3:12-14 (I'll let you look it up today.) - in place of a resolution. I don't like making 'resolutions' though I always look to doing better with the Lord's help and guidance. 

In closing, I hope you're blessed who read and seek Him daily. Shalom ~

Long before I was even born, my gram and uncle Russ on the farm, they were best pals too. 

Just a favorite picture of mine.

A Happiest of New Years to You & Yours With All God's Good Blessings ~

And

May the grace of our Lord Jesus be with you all. 

2 Thessalonians 3:18 NLT

Pomegranates ~

Well all seasons do come to an end, and this year like most, wasn't lacking in any surprises for me. Take the pomegrantes for instances, as this is what the post is about, harvesting in Arizona can be anywhere from early October through late December - so I've read. I've not harvested any out that late.

Darby ~

I believe two years ago - and hard to believe - we had a freak freeze that killed off fruit from all my trees/bushes. Everything from peaches, nectarines, pomegranates, even all the grapes went! In fact it killed the vines with one barely having a few leaves this year. Last year no fruit. I took a possible odd look at it as a rest and hopefully fruit would show this year. And we did! 

As far as the poms go I've always had success with one bush. The one pictured had a couple the previous year nothin really to show. This year it produced many though to my surprise it wasn't the same variety of pomegranates. The labeling was not correct with the plant and said it was the same as my good producer.

As you can see the outer color is different from the common poms we see in stores that is reddish. This outer part (the epicure) or husk a hard layer that protects the fruit (arils) there is also a soft covering past the husk called mesocarp a softer inner layer that is easy to peel off the arils. The arils of this pom are white with a slight pinkish tone not ruby. (photo below)

The crazy thing was since I didn't know I planted one different I just keep thinking it wasn't ripening or maybe since summer had scorching temps they were just cooked! lol No bugs and birds weren't bothering, only going after the red poms.

Finn~

He likes fruit as well.

Darby - not so much~

Barely in my hand reddish most common and the "surprise" pom!

So what to do with all the arils? I eat them of course, juice , put them in a salad, make scones with pretty red dots, and don't forget to share ~ Here is a salad recipe I love and made a few times but haven't posted yet. Found on the Fox and Briar blog, Autumn Harvest Salad w Pomegranates I hope you check it out - a tasty blog with something for everyones diets and likes!

If I ever find out what variety this delicious pom is I'll let you know! 

The whiter arils are very sweet and the red sweet with a bit of tartness.

From my main bush and most common to everyone of course is the red. I planted a "purple" three years ago and it's been struggling with no show of fruit yet. I have to say I haven't been good about there care of recent it hasn't been a good couple seasons - overwhelming to say the least or until I post. :)

What do you know about pomegranates? Possibly more than I did so here are some interesting facts. 

I read where there are more than 500 pomegranate cultivars in the world! Here is a link if you are interested in Identifying The Different Types of Pomegranate Trees.

You can keep poms in the frig for up to 2 months as in whole fruit, once seeded 5-7 days. Mine have lasted longer. You can also freeze them and they will keep up to a year- even can them! Even can them - wow, that is fantastic news to

Have you ever made Pomegranate Syrup/Molasses? I made it around eight years ago it was delish I wished I had taken time to post it. The link is a very similar to the recipe I used - I'll be visiting this one soon I think there are so many excellent blog out there!

The fruit is low cal, high in fiber that has been said to promote a healthy heart and possibly help to prevent cancer. Packed full of good things healthy and tasty.

Now putting aside all the previous things that we may have known or thought of here's something  even read about in the Bible - here's something I didn't know:

It has been said that there are over or around 613 arils in a pom! that is amazing to me. It has been said it is a symbol of the 613 mitzvoth (commandment or religious duties of the Torah of the Jewish religion.) It also said it has also come to express an individual act of human kindness in keeping with the law. 

Can you just imagine trying to keep them all? God in He infinite wisdom knew we needed a Savior - JESUS ~ He said be perfect as He is perfect ~ As believers we are grafted into the promise of God as sons and daughters. 

I'm for one thankful Jesus rescued me - 

He paid the ransom and set me free.

I'm grafted in and made perfect,

THROUGH HIM~

VLB 11.1.24

But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven. For He makes the sun to rise one the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust. For if you love those who love you, what reward do you have?  Do not even the tax collectors do the same? And if you greet only your brothers, what more are you doing than others? Do not even the Gentiles do the same? You therefore must be perfect, as your Heavenly Father is perfect. Matthew 5:44-48

It's like a perfect fruit let's not over look the Pomegranate ~ Enjoy all that God has for you! Amen

2022 Harvest Pics and nothing 2023, this year was better and God is good!