Joke of the Week: I thought this was so cute. Thought I would share one of life's little jokes. Please high light URL below -right click-select open link. https://www.facebook.com/reel/458761083499028

Take a Dip into Summer with a Flavorful Vegetable dip.

I hope you all are having a fantastic summer filled with cool breezes and fun activities. I finally kicked my summer cold and am ready to dive into the joy of summer. July 4th is in a few weeks and offers many opportunities to meet with family, friends, and neighbors and make beautiful memories together. As promised, below is my all-time favorite vegetable dip recipe. I'm so excited to share it with you! Yes, my AeroGarden did its thing and leafed out everywhere! Beau Monde Vegetable Dip is a breeze to make. Just mix 1 pint sour cream, 1 pint Hellmann's mayonnaise (not Miracle Whip), 1 Teaspoon Dill weed, 3 Tablespoons onion flakes, 3 Tablespoons parsley, 1 Teaspoon Beau Monde (Spice Islands). Sometimes, I add a little more Beau Monde. Chill in the refrigerator for 8 hours. Serve with your favorite vegetable tray assortment. Enjoy! I'll make myself some right now. I'm looking forward to hearing what you all think of it. Your feedback is important to me. Wishing you all a great day filled with joy and good food. Take care.

From Plant To Plate

AeroGarden. Now that’s a word for you. My granddaughter gave me an in-home garden system for Christmas two years ago. Since my husband and I were traveling a lot, I put the box of goodies in the pantry stored away but not forgotten. Today’s the day I pulled the box from the shelf. I must admit I haven’t the greenest thumb in the world, the country, or probably on our street, but I’ve got the explorer’s heart and am willing to try almost anything. This system will tell me when to add water, automatically turn on and off the grow light, and when to add plant food….Miracle-Gro (Yeah!). So I asked myself, how hard can this be to mess up? I will be a basil, parsley, dill, mint, thyme, and Thai Basil queen. I’m ready to grow some herbs! If it goes well, I will share my favorite dill dip recipe with you next month. And if it doesn’t, I’ll send the garden system to the first person who emails me. Just kidding. I’ll ask my granddaughter what I did wrong. She’s the genius in the family; she’ll know.

A Fresh Drink of Water

It's the most precious time of the year. Don't you love when the flowers bring freshness to the earth, the air feels like a fresh drink of cool water and life is bursting with newness. Easter does that for me. It gives me a minty fresh feeling. I just finished polishing my novel. Now I need an agent. I thought I would give you a taste of it since Easter is the day we celebrate eternal life through Jesus. Enjoy....'Outside, the sun dipped below the horizon, casting long shadows through the window. The garden, once tended by Nana Bess’s hands, whispered its farewell. Roses nodded, daffodils bowed, and the ancient oak stood sentinel. Nature understood; it had witnessed countless passages.

Nana Bess’s gaze shifted beyond the room, beyond the veil. She saw them—two angels had come to take her home. They shimmered like spun silver, their presence both weightless and profound. And there, at the threshold, stood Jesus—the One who had walked with her through every season of life. The room seemed to expand, its walls dissolving. Nana Bess felt lighter as if her spirit had already taken flight. She tried to reach out as Elly leaned in, their foreheads touching. But she couldn’t. Her moment had come. Heaven had come to claim her. Her breathing slowed, each one a bridge to eternity. Bess closed her eyes, and the angels gathered. She surrendered. Eternal beings lifted and carried her spirit. The room held its breath, as if the walls bowed in reverence...........And Nana Bess soared, leaving behind a well-lived life—a legacy of love, laughter, and faith. The angels sang, and Jesus welcomed her home.' Copyright@ C.K. Sharpe

Spring, O Muse

Spring you are the writer’s muse, A symphony of colors, scents, and hues, Your canvas painted with blossoms and dew, A masterpiece of renewal, ever true. As golden rays pierce through the mist, Caressing buds on branches they’ve kissed, Cherry blossoms blush as their hearts unfold, Whispering nature’s secrets not yet foretold. Petals unfurl like delicate dreams, Crocuses, daffodils, and tulips it seems, Their colors burst forth, a vibrant array, As if the sun itself had colored each display. So let us dance with the daffodils, Sing with the robins on distant hills, For spring has whispered its sweet refrain, And life awakens, once again. by C.K. Sharpe

Deuteronomy 32:2_Let my teaching fall like rain and my words descend like dew, like showers on new grass, like abundant rain on tender plants.

Some Kids Are Sweet, Some Kids AreTart

The story below mine, prompted me to share my story. Both make me chuckle...I think my Granddaughter was five or six when I told her she could come to Grandma’s house whenever she wanted. She took me literally. Our little blonde-haired Granddaughter set off down her parents’ driveway, dragging her pack back behind her. I lived several cities away! Her Mom saw her through the window and caught her little Blondie in time. When she was safe inside, I received a call from her Momma. I learned little ones take us literally! God made some kids sweet; he made some kids tart; nevertheless, they steal our hearts. I wish all parents and Grands a Valentine’s Day filled with sweet happiness and delicious memories. The other story is credited to: OH, NO – An Arts & Humanities Website. "Every month Martín’s parents took a trip to see Grandma and came home on the same train the next day. One day the child said to his parents: “I'm already grown up. Can I go to my grandma's alone?" After a brief discussion, his parents accepted. They stood with him as he waited for the train to exit. They said goodbye to their son and gave him some tips through the window. Martin repeated to them: “I know. I've been told this more than a thousand times." As the train was about to leave, his father murmured in his ear: “Son if you feel bad or insecure, this is for you!" And he put something in his pocket. Now Martin was alone, sitting on the train as he had wanted, without his parents for the first time. He was admiring the landscape out the window. Around him some unknowns pushed themselves in. They made a lot of noise. They got in and out of the train car. The conductor made some comments about him being alone. One person looked at him with eyes of sadness. Martin was feeling more uneasy with every minute that passed. And now he was scared. He felt cornered and alone. He put his head down, and with tears in his eyes, he remembered his dad had put something in his pocket. Trembling, he searched for what his father had given him. Upon finding the piece of paper he read it: “Son, I'm in the last train car!" That's how life is, we must let our kids go. We must let them try new things. But we always like to be in the last car, watching, in case they are afraid or in case they find obstacles and don’t know what to do. We want to be close to them as long as we are still alive." Psalm 127:3-5: Grandchildren are the crown of the aged, and the glory of children is their fathers.

The Chosen: Season 4 Trailer

Matthew 4:19: “Come, follow Me,” Jesus said, “and I will make you fishers of men.” Ephesians 1:4-5 tells us, "just as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we would be holy and blameless before Him. In love He predestined us to adoption as sons through Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the kind intention of His will," Source: https://bible.knowing-jesus.com/topics/Being-Chosen. Please copy URL below for THE CHOSEN:Season 4 trailer

: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mkobAqU1OUk

Timeless Magic

As we gather around tables laden with festive delights, may the echoes of gratitude and the warmth of shared moments transcend the challenges of our time. In the backdrop of the holiday season, may one's values echo through every gesture of kindness and every shared meal this Thanksgiving. In the midst of the holiday hustle, let us take a moment to appreciate the beauty of our country's landscape, the laughter of loved ones, and the shared stories around the table. In prayer and worship, may we hunger for the peace that surpasses all understanding.Then, as many countries adorn themselves in the dance of twinkling lights and the melodies of Christmas carols in many languages, may we find solace in the beauty of unity and resilience of the human spirit. May every heartfelt exchange during Christmas illustrate that even when the world is in the shadow of dark times, the human spirit has the power to rebuild, renew, and find hope in the simple joys of togetherness and hope. As the winter chill settles over our homes and the hearths glow with warmth (even in the South), let us not forget that the true essence of the holiday season lies not just in the twinkling lights and festive decorations but in the genuine connections we forge with one another. May the echoes of our hopes and aspirations resonate beyond the season, carrying us into a New Year filled with promise, growth, and the unwavering belief that, together, we can illuminate even the darkest corners of the world with the light of compassion, understanding and God's grace.Wishing you and your loved ones a holiday season filled with wonder, joy, and the timeless magic of togetherness.

Renewal in the Midst of Darkness

This blog is a tribute to all overcomers: Renewal Amid Darkness......In the darkest night, sorrow's heavy shroud, A heart in pieces, dreams cloaked in a shroud. Yet whispers of hope, seep through the despair, A glimmer of light, an answer to prayer. For sadness, a tempest, fierce and unkind, Yet within its depths, resilience we find. Beneath the weight, a spirit strives, To break through the clouds, and once more feel alive. As time passes, wounds slowly heal, And tender shoots of joy are revealed. From the depths of despair, a new strength does spring, A symphony of laughter, once again to sing. The sun rises anew, painting the sky, Melodies of hope, no longer a sigh. Within the heart's depth, resilience is found, Transforming the sadness, into joy unbound. Thus, in the tale of each sorrowful day, The seed of gladness finds its way. From the shadows, it blooms, a radiant flower, A testament to the heart's enduring power. ....c.k. sharpe

Tribute to Lexi - Our Keeshond

Lexi Blue Sharpe Our Beloved Keeshond May 22, 2014 – October 6, 2023 In loving memory of Lexi Blue so dear, A faithful friend who brought us endless cheer. Born in spring's embrace, so full of grace, Brought joy and love to every space. With fur as soft as a summer's breeze, She filled our lives with such gentle ease. A Keeshond with a heart so kind, In her sweet presence, we'd often find, Trike rides in the park, mail-fetching delight, Playing with brother Murphy, what a joyful sight, Dad took her to the coffee shop with pride, Laying by Mom's side, while her books came to life. Her love for peanut butter was quite clear, When its on the table, she was always near, On movie nights, we’d eat popcorn, Lexi dog treats, Cuddling with us, our bond was quite complete. A trip to Dairy Queen, there's no question about, She’d enjoy a pup cup, without a doubt, When her brother Murphy came to visit, They’d run and play, then rest on blankets. A watchful eye, a guardian true, She'd alert us when things were askew. Once she met you, in her heart, you'd stay, In her own special Lexi Blue way. Nine-and-a-half years she loved with a heart pure and true, Bringing happiness to us, we'll always remember you, In the warmth of our memories, you'll forever reside, Our dear Lexi Blue Sharpe, forever by our side. P.S. Picture taken on 10-5-23. Special "big" treat...Her last DQ.

What Color Crayon Do You Use?

I just watched an artist online, layering paint onto a canvas, resulting in a breathtaking piece of art. It got me thinking about how artists, whether they're using paint or crayons, envision their creations. Some plan every detail in advance, while others embrace unique techniques and surprises along the way. Even children coloring inside or outside the lines of a page bring their creativity to life. As adults, we too paint the canvas of our lives with different colors, each layer representing a new chapter. Some of us navigate without strict guidelines, while others seek guidance. Sometimes, I find myself hesitating, unsure of which color to choose for life's next layer. That's when I turn to God's crayon box, His Word, for inspiration. His colors are perfect, and His guidance helps me shape the picture of my life. In the end, every layer painted in God's will becomes a masterpiece, a blessing in its own right. Just as artists are unique, so are we, and so is our life's artwork. Verse for the Month: Romans 11:36 ESV "For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be glory forever. Amen." If you're curious, I watched this fascinating public display of art online, and you might want to take a look too. It's definitely worth a visit. It was public viewing, so don’t think May Art will mind if I attach the URL. https://www.facebook.com/watch?v=1033733234476436 by May Art.

ARE YOU RUNNING?

Please take a moment and daydream about running in a race. Picture looking down at your well-equipped feet. You are wearing your favorite running shoes and ballcap. The rhythmic sounds of your souls hitting the pavement echo back into the world surrounding you. Even though you are tired, the wind pushing your back urges you to keep running. Your legs extend, and your muscles stretch. The race becomes more exhilarating as you near the finish line. In one last burst, you break through the gold ribbon stretched between the gates made of Pearl. You persevered. You finished the race. You kept the faith. Even when life is hard, you are never alone. Running a race is hard work, but according to the promises of God, it is well worth crossing the finish line. Verse of Month: Galatians 6:9: "And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap if we do not give up."

Through The Raging Fire

When Hawaii hurts, all of the USA hurts. It's good to see people come together and pray and help our Maui neighbors who recently lost so much due to raging fires. Ecclesiastes 4:9 reminds us two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor." For Maui, experiencing loss is a cruel reminder that no matter what is going on in one's life, God wants to hold every precious second in His hands. This includes trusting Him with the innermost emotions of one's heart, good or bad. We are to pour out each joy and sorrow as freely as Jesus did his emotions in Gethsemane. "The earnest tears of Gethsemane are the signature proof that our emotions, no matter how dark, will be a door braced open between our innermost hearts and our Father's throne room. If Jesus brought to his Father his desperate sorrow and urgent desire for a way out, how can we not also bring to our Father our muddled loves and the mixed feelings they produce?" (Quotation Credit: Untangling Emotions_J. Alasdair Groves & Winston T. Smith) Verse of the Month: Proverbs 19:17 One who is gracious to a poor man lends to the Lord, And He will repay him for his good deed.

Dog Today, Cat Tomorrow...

Some people can't decide who or what they are. Do animals have the same problem? I'm pretty confident my animal knows she's a dog. Regardless, I'm going to keep feeding her dog food.

We've got everything we need to identify who we are every day and all the time. We have God's goodness and mercy, and can feed on His Word 24/7. Verse of the Month: 2 Peter 1:4 ESV "By which he has granted to us his precious and very great promises, so that through them you may become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped from the corruption that is in the world because of sinful desire."

Let Freedom Ring

July 4, 1776 was a big day for our nation. In a few days, we will celebrate the passage of the Declaration of Independence by the Continental Congress. As we wear the red, white and blue and fly our flag proudly, may we be reminded of our forefathers' dedication to freedom and the sound reasoning used in creating the U.S. Constitution. The Bible shows us in the Old and New Testament books that physical and spiritual freedoms were hard-fought for centuries. I Peter 1:18-19 rings out spiritual victory for all people. "For you know that God paid a ransom to save you from the empty life you inherited from your ancestors. And it was not paid with mere gold or silver, which lost their value. It was the precious blood of Christ, the sinless, spotless Lamb of God" (NLT). Even amid today's uncertainties, we can be sure God is working behind the scenes to bring perfect peace and justice to the world. As our flag shows off its stars and stripes in a few days, may we be reminded of the individuals that built our Nation on a solid spiritual foundation. Let's pray God's truth seeped deep into the roots of our homeland and God's Word will forever have a stronghold in our souls. With these underpinnings in place, may we go boldly into the future. Happy 4th of July, everyone. Let freedome ring! "If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free" (John 8:31-32).

Do It Even If Your Voice Shakes

"Imagine getting to heaven and God saying: Before I laid the foundations of the earth, I thought of you, and the days you would live on earth. I planned out the people and the places I would give you. I laid out your neighbors and your workplace, the places you would attend school, and your family; I laid out enough days to do all the good works that I purposed for you, and I equipped you with all you would need to accomplish those purposes here. I filled you with my Spirit to encourage and remind you and lead you. I gave you my Word so you would know me and know what to do. I gave you people to run with and people who needed me. Let's talk about how all that went." I found this quote posted on Pinterest by several people. Some may think, as Forrest Gump did in his famous movie. "My mama always said, 'Life was like a box of chocolates. You never know what you're gonna get.'" I am glad God's Word isn't like a box of assorted chocolates. When read, I know what I will get when I sink my teeth into God's Word. I am partaking of God's truth. His words give nutritious purpose and healthy direction for living a Spirit-filled life. With that in mind, when I feel the Holy Spirit's leading, I do the best I can in the circumstance I am in to fulfill His purpose. But, I must confess, the mind-provoking quote on Pinterest did cause me to flip through my brain's "life index." In doing so, I realized only God truly knows my life from the first breath to the last. He knows the blessings completed for His Glory and those passed by or overlooked out of ignorance. Forrest's mom told her son, "You have to do the best with what God gave you." I would add God gives each person at least one gift. It is up to us, sometimes with the help of others, to recognize them. As we use our spiritual gift(s), He will bless the work of our hands, and as Forrest Gump would say, "That's all I have to say about that." Verse of the Month: Psalm 121:8. "The Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.

Who's Got Your Back?

It's 2:30 am, and rain falls on the roof at a pretty good clip. I hear the click of our dog's toenails on the hardwood floor. I make a mental note to trim our dog's nails. Lexi's furry body jumps against the side of the bed, and the covers move as her front paws search for me in the dark. Finally, Lexi finds my arms, her safety from the storm. I boost her onto the bed and give her forehead a calming pet. Lexi knows her "pet parents" have her back. Soon she is lying horizontal, belly-side up, and fast asleep across the foot of our bed. She feels safe and breathes easily. I creep out of bed, leaving the dog and husband undisturbed. I make a pot of coffee. Who doesn't enjoy a power surge of caffeine and a chocolate muffin in the wee hours of the morning? I sip from my cup and think about stress and what effects it can have on people as well as animals. I'm sure Satan loves it when God's people stress. Though I feel like a mess during stressful times, I know my faith doesn't have to follow suit. I try to lean in and trust God's ability to care for me during life's trials. Through the power of His blood, I know He prays to the Father on my behalf. Hebrews 7:25, in part, says, "...He lives forever to intercede with God on their behalf." I need only to be still and rest. It's 4:30, and even though I'm caffeinated, I climb back into bed, knowing Jesus has my back. Soon, I, too, will sleep. Verse of the Month: "Don't be afraid, for I am with you. Don't be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand. (Isaiah 41:10).

Crossroads

I attended a funeral recently. I saw loved ones and friends shed tears. But, I believe there was rejoicing in their hearts as they imagined their loved one's joy walking through the "pearly gates" and hearing homecoming greetings. "Fix My Heart" Revision II comes out in paperback and hardback in a few days. It is a women's devotional designed to help restore the troubled heart. I leave you to read (in part) Day 10, "After grace, Mary's three children passed their plates for her to fill. She added a dinner roll and scoops of the steaming casserole to each dish. Mary's eyes softened as she heard their words of thanks. She often told God what a blessing they were to her. She believed with God's guidance, she would rear her children with love, kindness, and compassion. Her life was different after her husband's death two years before. She had imagined she and her husband would have danced together until they were old and grey. But life was about accepting the things she couldn't change, and she was doing her best. She praised God for giving her daily strength and bringing people into her life to help along her journey. She was thankful He supplied her family's spiritual, physical, and emotional needs." Motivation: When Mary encountered spiritual difficulties, God's armor served her well. The Helmet of Salvation protected her head from fatal blows. It covered her thoughts from Satan's ability to tempt her with discouragement. She realized the devil is relentless in his pursuit to win the battle he wages on earth. Mary was confident God had a plan and purpose for her family. Wearing the Helmet of Salvation freed her to think and do good things. Application: Salvation is eternal, and Christians cannot lose it. It is our impenetrable defense against the enemy.The Helmet of Salvation protects Christian women when fighting spiritual battles. Wearing the Helmet of Salvation is the last armor put on each morning. It assures women of their hope through Christ and the readiness for whatever comes throughout the day. God has won the battle. We have Salvation. Victory is ours.

Are You A Generational Influencer?

I'm glad I am a grandparent rather than a parent of youngsters in the 21st century. Why? In today’s society, facts and realities are becoming stranger than fiction. I watch the young, the inbetweeners, and the old reeling from worldly blasts of misinformation. These generations include the Traditionalists—born between 1925 and 1945; Baby Boomers—born between 1946 and 1964; Generation X—born between 1965 and 1980; Millennials—born between 1981 and 2000; and Generation Z—born between 2001 to 2020. Most of us would agree parents and grandparents influence behavior. They make a difference in the lives of younger generations. Why not make Godly instruction and principles part of it? Children reflect parental love and guidance when they have received good moral training. Occasionally, when parents need to smooth out a child’s rough edges, I imagine grandma and grandpa putting on their prayer-warrior hats. Parents want the best for their families; God wants the best for His. Generations are blessed when grandparents, parents, and children align with God’s purpose for living a “well-done” life. That way, every age can bring hope to their society and its future. Verse of the Month: “Since God has created us for His glory, we are to glorify God in all that we do with our lives. “Whatever you do, do all to the glory of God” (1 Corinthians 10:31). Photo cred: Kevin Carden Art (#kevincardenphotography). Kevin, your art is a blessing.

Wouldn’t it be easier to just fold and put away 'dirty laundry' ?

I put my 'dirty laundry'in the wash room every day. The same can be said for the events of my day. Except I gather and sort them in my mind. January, 2023 has started out somewhat bumpy. A thin temporary crown broke soon after I got home from the dentist. I promise, no nuts or chewy items were involved. The dentist removed and replaced the temporary with a thicker one. Though no pain was involved, I spent four and a half hours total in a dentist chair. Life comes interrupted. I went to a medical facility concerning problems with my arm. An x-ray was required. Unfortunately for me, it was chest x-ray only day! They sent me to a hospital thirteen miles away in a pouring rain storm. When I arrived, a woman was giving the Valet attendant a what-for because he refused to park her car. The service had closed ten minutes earlier. Why are people so short-fused in this day and age? Anyway, I found the imaging lab closed earlier than expected even though I had an appointment. I expect because of the tornado threats whirling around the tri-state area? Life comes interrupted. Even though this past week was filled with dirty laundry and dirty little problems, I know a life filled with clean and wonderful victory is obtainable. I can prepare, through praying and praising. I can put on God’s full Armour and stand firm in my faith. But, it’s up to me, to be properly prepared. And, then through God’s strength, I can be strong no matter how my day is interrupted. By the way I went to another doctor...fractured humerous resulting from stupidity...mine. It is mending along with my attitude. But I am ready for February. I have my umbrella and God's Armor no matter how life is interrupted. Today’s scripture-Proverbs 3:5-6 “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.”

LAST NIGHT, AT MIDNIGHT...

Last night, at midnight, many sang acapella or gathered around a musical instrument to sing the lyrics of Robert Burn’s 1783 poem, “Auld Lang Syne.” The bitter-sweet words have been proclaimed in song and claimed by memories for as long as I can remember. As the song ended, so had another year. Music is a unique tool of the Lord. Used throughout the Bible, many a song proclaimed His name and message. Many a tambourine accompanied hallelujahs. Jesus, however, did not carry sheet music nor a musical instrument to get out His message, although people sang and cried for joy at His words. He didn’t have a TV show, a podcast, or a blog to promote His message of love—no cell phones either. But he did have His Father’s Words, twelve great friends, and the backing of Angels. His message was simple. Through faith, God offers His love to humanity through salvation and the gift of eternal life. He powerfully revealed the Good News through His words and actions. Through Him, we have a fantastic knowledge of God’s enduring presence in our lives—now that is true love. Happy New Year, friends and family! In His love, we can walk in the Light every day of 2023.

Thank you for another year of allowing me to come into your homes "Over The Coffee Cup." Merry, Merry from Me to Yours and a Happy New Year!

OH, NO!—A POEM

I know poetry is not everyone's cup of tea (or coffee), but I wanted to share a poem I wrote in January 2013 that still resonates with me today. It is called May I Be Your Silver Lord -----May I Be Your silver Lord heated in your crucible? Refined and purified at temperatures according to Your will. I know you will never leave me as I hear the billows blow. Impurities skimmed from the top as your mercies take control. Afflictions will cause my strength to wane in the refiner's fire. Despite my groans, I know faith completes the silversmith's desire. So when I am lifted out, My Lord, with a faith that has shone through---the reflection I see in myself is the perfect image of You. -CKSharpe So, with each breath, may we rejoice this holiday season knowing His love for us is faithful, and He is able. We can see God's mighty power at work from Genesis through Revelation. By sharing the good news of His birth, death and resurrection, we have loved in 2022 as Jesus loves. Happy Holidays, family and friends. Verse of the Month: Hebrews 7:25 NIV: "Therefore he is able to save completely those who come to God through him, because He always lives to intercede for them."

Optimisticity...Is That Even A Word?

Is my glass half-full or half-empty? Looking closely at my glass, I know the optimist would tell me it is half-full. The pessimist would say my glass is half-empty. Right now, I agree with the pessimist. Why? I find it draining to think about the state of the economy, hear about church upsets, and listen to T.V. personalities with divergent opinions. Some humorous quips may help me cope with my half-full state. Here goes: • The cynic wonders who drank the other half. • The mother of a persistently demanding five-year-old says; sweetheart, it's whatever you want it to be; just please let me have five minutes peace and quiet. • The neat freak would not leave the glass sitting there long enough for anyone to consider the question but would scoop it up, wash it up, dry it to a gleaming shine and put it back in the glass cabinet in a jiffy. • The insomniac will be up all night wrestling with the question. • The opportunist says, "Thanks, folks! While you were debating it, I drank it."

So what am I going to do about my half-full glass? There's no way I'm letting an opportunist drain it! I think it's time for me to pour it out before God and ask Him to fill it with the fullness of Himself. I am sure if I put into practice the verse of the month, my optimisticity would go through the roof! Verse of the month: Romans 15:13, NIV May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.