Schools - Open or Closed

        To open schools or keep them closed - that is now the big question.

          Some states have already chosen to open them while some politicians, including the President, are pushing to make this happen.  Others, especially the other political party, seem to want them closed.  So the next question is whether this is now a question of safety or of politics.

          It has always bothered me that folks who have never spent a day teaching in a public school make major decisions that greatly affect the classroom. I guess they feel qualified since once they were students.  These decisions usually involve curriculum and things like testing.  But now their decisions are about safety and the actual operation of schools and classrooms.

          Now how will teachers enforce the rules of wearing of masks?  They already often have faced the challenges of enforcing normal behavior expectations. But if the student's parents don't wear masks when they are recommended, won't their children also object.  Will they claim that it is their right not to wear them?  And will the administration defend the teacher and enforce the rules?  I  wouldn't want to have to find out.  It's just another potential battle for teachers to face.

          And what about social distancing?  Classrooms that I have taught in have generally had 30 student desks and they usually filled the classroom.  And there was seldom even enough room for rows and other equipment. And rarely did I have a class of fewer than 25 students - usually closer to 30.  So how would you separate your class of students under those conditions?

          One solution would be to reduce class size.  But how could that be done without hiring additional teachers?  And where are schools going to get the money to do that when their budgets are already stressed and under pressure?

           Then there is the challenge of feeding students.  One proposal is to have them served in their classroom.  I can't comprehend the logistics of doing this.  How would you deliver meals to all of these classrooms and clean up afterwards?  Where would the staff be found to do this?  

          What about control and spacing in the halls between classes?  What about the use of restrooms?  What about the cleaning of rest rooms and classrooms throughout the day?

          And then there is the challenge of busing.  In the past some busses have had to have three children sit in each seat - often without seat belts.  You would also need to double the number of buses and drivers and transportation is already a major expense for each school district.  And of course there could be the problem of discipline on the busses.  Do you think that will disappear during a pandemic?

          And what about curriculum?  Online work is one solution.  But you must be sure that each student has adequate access to a computer and to the internet.  And I have had experience writing computer curriculum and it is not an easy task and it takes much time to develop it.  And what about hands on activities, especially in things like science?

          And how would you handle absences and make-up work?  That was always a challenge for me when I was teaching.  And then there is the need for substitutes when a teacher is absent.  And, with the virus, you can be sure that teachers will use all of their sick days even if they don't catch the virus.  And where will qualified substitutes come from?  Schools often had trouble covering classrooms of absent students before the pandemic.

          And then there are the extracurricular concerns on the secondary level, especially  sports, marching band, musical groups and plays.  Already schools are running into problems with preseason practices.  How do you control Covid19 in such situations.

          I really don't understand how schools will be able to operate without additional funds and staffing.  And with the loss of tax revenue this past year, that will be a major challenge.  I guess we will just need to watch and see what happens.

          I really enjoyed my 39 years in the classroom but I am now very glad that I am retired and not dealing with all of these problems.  I'm not sure what I would do if I were a teacher.  With the physical problems that I have it might be a dangerous proposition to teach.  Maybe more older teachers will choose to quit or retire.  Then staffing would become even a bigger problem.

         And what would I do if I were a parent?  That would be a very difficult decision to have to make.  I pray for my family as they make those decisions for my grandchildren.  May the Lord give them wisdom and surround my grandchildren with His protection

70 Years

          Seventy years might seem to be a very long time.  But you might be surprised how quickly that time might go by if you are doing something that you really enjoy.

         Seventy years ago my father organized a group of families to form a new church in Lancaster.  These folks had been former members of  Mennonite Brethren in Christ Churches in Harrisburg, Lebanon and Mt. Carmel and they were then all living in the Lancaster area.

          The new church held its first service in a tent at the corner of Broad and Orange Streets in Lancaster on July 22, 1950.  There were 31 charter members and, at the age of 9, I was one of them.  This was the beginning of a very exciting era that has lasted for seven decades.

          The new congregation met for its regular services in Malta Temple in Lancaster.  This was a memorable experience for many reasons, including the fact that the building also housed a bowling alley.  It was a common experience to hear the noise of bowling balls and pins during our services.

          But on November 1, 1951, the congregation was able to begin meeting in the basement of its newly constructed building at the corner of Prospect and Hager Streets.  I have many good memories of members of the congregation working together there to complete their new building by doing such jobs as plumbing, carpentry and painting.  Shortly after that we were able to move upstairs to use the new sanctuary.

          In 1958 I started and led the first church choir.  A neighbor played the old piano for us since none of our regulars was a pianist.  In 1968 we finally bought a good piano and an organ was added in 1969.  After our marriage, my wife joined the church and became the church pianist/organist, a position she has held and shared for about 57 years.

          Over 70 years the original church building underwent three major additions and renovations.  Then while a new building was being built at a new location, we underwent two temporary moves until moving into its present location on Donerville Road on June 15, 2003.  Since then the new Stables Youth Center, a portable classroom and the Hoarce A. Kauffman softball field have been added to the property.

          The church  has provided many opportunities for service over these decades.  We've had numerous opportunities to teach Sunday School classes and Bible studies.  In fact my wife led the first women's Bible study there in 1972. We have been honored to have provided special music and have sung in church choirs for much of these 70 years.  I served as Sunday School superintendent for a number of years, elder for 30 years, and church financial secretary for 16 years. We have also directed the church prayer chains for over 50 years. But the most exciting ministry was serving as founder and commander of our Awana ministry for 38 years.  These were special highlights of our 70 years.

          It is hard to understand where 70 years have come and gone.  But, unfortunately it now appears that this part of our life may be passing.  Nobody anticipated the Covid19 pandemic.  But our family doctors have told us in no uncertain terms that we may no longer attend church.  It would be too dangerous with all the physical problems that we have.  We are not to let anyone push us into attending again until there is a reliable vaccine available.

          Now will there ever be a reliable vaccine in our lifetimes?  It is hard to even think about this, but our days of attending, fellowshipping and ministering in church may have come to a sudden end.  And that is very hard for us to understand and adjust to.  However, as one ages, it becomes a little easier to adjust when you are no longer needed or missed.  But it is hard to realize that you are forgotten and no longer part of what has been a vital part of your life for decades.

          But God has not left us alone.  He will continue to be with us in whatever days we still have here on earth, no matter if we worship Him in church or alone here at home.  And He has given us 70 special years with great memories.

Basics Of Life

 

        The events of the last few months have shaken and changed our lives considerably, probably forever.    Our way of life, our values, our faith are being challenged and at times there seems to be nothing that we can do about it.
    But, the Lord is still here! 

          We have been hit by Covid19.  Many are sick, many have died and it appears to be getting worse.  No vaccine is available and none is close to being developed.  Shopping, eating, visiting friends, medical care and worshipping have had to change.  And too many still feel it is political and won't wear masks or keep separation.

But, the Lord is still here!  

          Protesters have taken to the streets.  Some have torn down statues.  Some have vandalized stores and set fire to buildings. Many have disrupted traffic and pedestrian activities.   One can't help but wonder if mob rule is here to stay.

But, the Lord is still here! 

          Court and government decisions have been in conflict with Biblical truths.  This is going to create all sorts of problems for Christian organizations and churches in the near future.  No longer can we expect our country to defend Biblical values.

But, the Lord is still here!  

          Our schools and colleges are being forced to change.  Shorter classes and new techniques will be needed.  Curriculum will be changed to reflect current changes and opinions.  How will that affect the future. of our country?

But, the Lord is still here! 

          Now if these things are disturbing you there are a few things that you can do.  First, turn off the news.  It is generally liberal, sensational and prejudiced.  It can be very disturbing and one-sided.  And I am talking about the network news, the local news and especially MSNBC and Fox.
          Second, spend time looking for folks that you can help.  Maybe they need help around their house or help shopping.  Maybe they just need a friend who cares and contacts them regularly.  This isolation has been tough especially when nobody seems to care at all about you. Your showing that you care will not only help them but will also be an encouragement to you.

          Third, and more importantly, we all need to get back to the basics of Christian living - Bible study, prayer, hearts that are pure, a love that is blind, a faith that is firmly grounded in Christ.  Many believers have drifted away from these truths.

          And that is the message that 4Him, a contemporary Christian group,  shares in their song "We Need to Get Back to the Basics of Life".  Now I know that many of you won't care for their style of music, but hopefully you will mediate on their words and then decide if you have drifted away from the basics of life. I believe that real change will come only when believers get back to the basics.

1.     We've turned the page, for a new day has dawned

We've rearranged what is right and what's wrong

Somehow we've drifted so far from the truth

That we can't get back home

Where are the virtues that once gave us light

Where are the morals that governed our lives

Someday we all will awake and look back

Just to find what we've lost

We need to get back to the basics of life

A heart that is pure and a love that is blind

A faith that is fervently grounded in Christ

The hope that endures for all times

These are the basics, 
we need to get back to the basics of life

2.     The newest rage is to reason it out

Just meditate and you can overcome every doubt

After all man is a God, they say

God is no longer alive

But I still believe in the old rugged cross

And I still believe there is hope for the lost

And I know the rock of all ages will stand

Through changes of time

We need to get back to the basics of life

A heart that is pure and a love that is blind

A faith that is fervently grounded in Christ

The hope that endures for all times

These are the basics, 
we need to get back to the basics of life

Bridge

We've let the darkness invade us too long

We've got to turn the tide

Oh and we need the passion that burned long ago

To come and open our eyes

There's no room for compromise

We need to get back to the basics of life

A heart that is pure and a love that is blind

A faith that is fervently grounded in Christ

The hope that endures for all times

These are the basics, 
we need to get back to the basics of life

If you care to, you can listen to it here.   BASICS

To Wear A Mask Or Not To Wear One

          To wear a mask or not wear a mask ...  that appears to be a big question today.  And opinions are varied and discussions about this question can become very heated.  In the last few days I have read and heard "debates" on Facebook, on a community bulletin board and in the newspaper.  Some of the debaters are folks I know, some of whom call themselves Christian.  I have been surprised and shocked at many of their responses.

          On the virus itself one person said  "COVID19 is real, but it is a manufactured pandemic. We are as sheep being led to the slaughter! Think about it!"  Others claim it isn't real and is just politics, so why follow the recommendations of the government.

          Another said, "It's all about control and power! This cannot be constitutional. It's time to call the congressman and put an end to this!"

          When this week PA Governor Tom Wolf declared that everyone must wear a mask whenever they leave their home, one person said, "I still won't be wearing one outside, and only inside if people get into my 6' of space or I'm told I need one. I'll let you know if I get a citation. I'm not sure who's monitoring it. I can let you know when I encounter the mask patrol." Another replied, "I'm not wearing a mask! It messes up my makeup."  A third said "I'm going to need bail money."  A fourth said, "to quote Nancy Reagan, just say no!"

          One person said, "I wear a mask when I go to the store and when it is regulated at church. I wear a mask promoting Trump as I do think a lot of this is an attempt to hurt Trump. I just don't think I cause a death if I don't wear a mask. This meme actually is good for straightening my attitude as I look at others not wearing masks outside exercising or wearing a mask not covering their nose. I don't concern myself with them, I just go on. I'm not worried about catching it or spreading it."

          In one debate about wearing them out of courtesy to protect others, one participant replied,  "Honestly, causing a death? really!! Where maybe 7% (high estimate) of cases die and not even 1% of the population has this? With that logic, masks should be worn forever, since colds and flu can also cause people to die".

          I must admit that I am shocked about how many seem to have no respect for others - especially seniors and those with serious physical problems.  One person said, without any apparent concern about these people, "just make them stay isolated at home!"  Where have love and concern for others gone in our country?  It's almost like - let them die just so nobody takes away my rights and freedoms.   Maybe on the 4th of July we need some discussions about freedoms and resulting responsibilities.

          I have been thoroughly surprised and disappointed in how many of these responses came from folks who claim to be Christians.  They show little compassion for others and no respect for elected leaders or their recommendations.  Nobody dare tell them what to do.  Now I thought that the Bible tells believers to follow those in authority over us unless it means violating Biblical principles.  So is refusing to wear a mask a violation of a Biblical teaching?  I think not.

          Unfortunately too many people are refusing to follow these guidelines. I still see folks everywhere not wearing masks.  Last week my neighbors had a birthday party with 50-60 folks there.  No social distancing and no masks.  We recently drove by a local park with three basketball courts.  All three were packed with young people.  Again, no social distancing or masks.  My wife recently had an appointment and about six were present.  She was the only one who wore a mask.  People without masks crowd beaches, recreational areas, parks, stores, restaurants and bars - most without masks.  And the number of those who are infected explodes.
           I read that in Alabama groups are having Covid19 parties in which participants pay to get admitted.  Then the first person who gets Covid19 is given all the money.

           We have been spoiled by amazing medical advances and care in the past.  Doctors seem to find miracle cures for diseases - but so far not for Covid19.  Will they ever find a cure?  i don't really know, but I hope so.

           In the meantime I personally will not rebel, even though at times it might be inconvenient.  I will follow social distancing guidelines, sanitize my hands and wear a mask whenever I am out of the house or around people.  I will avoid large gatherings.  I will take my doctor's warning even though that means I can't attend church until there is a cure.  And I will trust the Lord to protect me from exposures to this dangerous virus and carry through whatever is in the future.

          That is my obligation as a husband, father, friend and as a child of God passing through this land.

The Joys of Getting Old

          Getting old isn't easy and you don't really understand that truth until you get there.  Many things that you have taken for granted all of your life slowly stop working.  Most seniors learn to live with pain.  The number of meds you take begins to increase and you need special cases to keep track of them and take them at the correct time.

          I heard the story of an elderly woman who woke up and after a few minutes exclaimed that she must be dead.  Her husband asked why she would say that.  She replied "because nothing hurts this morning!"

          And nobody really cares about your changes in your health, nor do they want to hear about them.  In fact the older you become, the fewer friends you have and nobody needs you  or cares about you anymore.  It can be a very lonely time in life, especially when you need to "shelter in place".  We haven't been able to see our grandchildren for about three months even though they live nearby.  Nobody from church calls.  Being isolated is hard.

          And the pandemic has made  many things worse.  Seniors now are the likely folks to get Covid19 and even die from it.  You must take all sorts of extra precautions.  Our doctor has clearly told us that we should not attend church until there is a good vaccine available.  That could mean that we may never be able to go back again.  After 38 years we must give up serving in Awana.  

          It has affected us in many ways.  We just received a note from our dentist of 45 year who we really appreciated.  He has decided to close his practice for a number of reasons, but especially over concerns about his health and that of his staff and his patients.  That is a big blow to us, especially when I am in need of dental work to relieve some pain.  Many dentists are also temporarily closed because of the pandemic and many aren't taking new customers.  I think my dentist has made a wise choice, but it has created a real problem for us.

          Here is what maybe all of us 70+ year-olds, and those "yet-to-be", have to look forward to!

          This is something that happened at an assisted living center. The people who lived there have small apartments but they all eat at a central cafeteria. One morning one of the residents didn't show up for breakfast, so my wife went upstairs and knocked on his door to see if everything was OK. She could hear him through the door, and he said that he was running late and would be down shortly. So she went back to the dining area.

          An hour later he still hadn't arrived. So she went back up towards his room, and she found him on the stairs. He was coming down the stairs, but was having a hard time. He had a death grip on the handrail and seemed to have trouble getting his legs to work right. She told him she was going to call an ambulance, but he told her no, he wasn't in any pain and just wanted to have his breakfast. So she helped him the rest of the way down the stairs, and he had his breakfast.

          When he tried to return to his room he was completely unable to get up even the first step, so they called an ambulance for him. A couple hours later she called the hospital to see how he was doing. The receptionist there said he was fine, he just had both of his legs in one leg of his boxer shorts.

          Just wait, the older one gets, the more often events like this may happen to you.  Just smile and keep moving on.

          But there is one positive thing about getting old - heaven is getting closer, day by day.   Soon we will be done with the pandemic and all of our aches and pains.  What  a future that will be.

Happy Father's Day

          It has been 11 years since my father died, but I miss him more now than I ever did before.  He taught me so much over the years and I wish that I could talk to him once again.  I'm thankful that the Lord kept him from having to deal with this Covid19 mess and I would not want to bring him back to this after sharing in the glories of heaven.  However, I do wish I could talk to him and hear his wisdom about dealing with this pandemic.

          My dad taught me so much about dealing with difficult events.  When he was a year old he had to deal with the death of his father from the Spanish flu.  He and his mother were forced to relocate during the flu, after his death. But he saw how the Lord marvelously provided for them during those difficult times.

          About 60 years later he had to deal with another major shock, losing his job at RCA during one of their layoffs.  He never complained about this sudden news and the Lord provided him with jobs daily, including substitute teaching and working on preparing taxes.  Eventually the Lord provided a full-time job as head of facilities for what was then the Lancaster Osteopathic Hospital.  Dad's positive attitude and trust in the Lord during those years was a real lesson to us.

          Then a few years later he faced the toughest tragedy when my mother was killed in an automobile accident.  This caused a major readjustment in his life.  Privately he missed her deeply and often his tears flowed.  But again he went on with life, never complaining or blaming God, and serving the Lord  Again his faith in the Lord was a tremendous example to us.

          Dad's life was never easy and he taught us how to deal with what God provided.  During the early years of his marriage, following World War II, jobs were scarce.  For his first teaching job his pay was so small ($1,200) that he couldn't afford to have my mother and me live with him in Doylestown, so we had to live with his parents in Sunbury.  He learned to take a variety of part-time evening jobs to pay the bills.  Later he was able to get temporary jobs with Dupont in Wilmington on the Manhattan Project, New Cumberland High School, Susquehanna University teaching Air Force cadets and Elizabethtown College. Then a full-time job finally opened at RCA in Lancaster.  This meant eight moves for us until we were finally able to settle down in Lititz when I was in fifth grade.   Again, dad put his trust in the Lord and He provided all that we needed. 

          Dad also taught me the importance of serving the Lord.  We were in church whenever the doors were open, even though it often meant making lengthy drives to Harrisburg.  Then dad led the effort to begin our church in Lancaster where he was a charter member, an elder, teacher, trustee, treasurer, delegate, superintendent, etc. throughout most of his adult life.  Only recently I learned how he often kept the church solvent in its early years by paying bills out of his own pocket when the offerings were not sufficient.

          He was also very active in our denomination serving for many years on the Board of Directors.  In fact one of his last acts here on earth came the night before his death when he completed checks and a financial report for the Board of Directors meeting.  He also was instrumental in the founding of Berean Bible School.  He served as president of the Warwick School Board for a number of years, was a board member of Lancaster Christian School and served on the Lancaster Christian Businessmen's Committee.

          I owe my father so much and I learned so many valuable lessons just by observing him.  His faith was real.  His work ethic, unbelievable.  His wisdom, outstanding.

          Dad, I don't know if you can hear me, but thank you for your life and example.  I just hope that I can be half the father that you were to me.  I do miss you, but I know that I will see you again, possibly very soon.

         Happy Father's Day.  

And The Changes Continue

Our New "Family Practice"

        My how a virus has changed our lives so quickly, in so many ways.  I doubt that we will ever return to the "normal" lives we had been experiencing up to about three months ago.  Maybe wishing for the "good old days" will have more meaning.

          Perhaps the biggest changes have come in the field of medicine.  As I look back over about eight decades of medical care, it is interesting to see what has happened.  Now I don't recall much of anything before I was in first grade, although I am sure that I must have visited doctors before that.

          My first memory of a doctor came when I was in second grade and we lived in Elizabethtown.  My doctor was Dr. Wenger who actually lived a few houses from us on College Avenue.  He was a kind man and I remember going to him for my necessary shots.  He also made a home visit when my brother and I had the mumps.

          Now I don't remember going to a doctor when we lived in Lancaster, but when we moved to Lititz, Dr. Griswold took over our care.  His office was in his home on Broad St.  He also made some home visits.  I recall, during the polio epidemic, that he came to visit my sister who fortunately did not have polio.  Home visits are now something from another era.

          I recall that here I had my first experiences with the waiting room.  In those days doctors did not make appointments.  When their office was open you just went and sat in their waiting room.  There, until it was your turn, you could keep company with those who had colds or maybe even the flu.  And, in addition to the coughing, you often had to put up with screaming babies.  And sometimes your wait could be an hour or two depending upon how many were ahead of you.  I guess you had to be really ill to endure that.  I'm so glad that this has changed, although sometimes today you can still wait a considerable time even when you have an appointment.

           When we got married and were living in Sunbury we went to Dr. Heimbach in Selinsgrove.  What I remember most about him is that when we were waiting for the results of a pregnancy test he shared the results first with my father-in-law and told him to tell his daughter that she was pregnant.  Obviously that was before Hippaa regulations.

            Then we settled in Silver Springs and the Lord miraculously led us to Dr. Richard Bryson in Landisville.  He turned out to be one of our two favorite doctors.  He was so kind and friendly and would help us out at all hours and on any day.  I recall going to him one Christmas morning when one of our boys was sick.  He was our first doctor to make appointments.  He had his own closet of medications so you seldom had to go to a pharmacy.  When our boys continually got infections with high fevers he would provide us with omnipen that we could carry with us and mix when we needed it.  I doubt any doctor would do that today.  Whenever my back got bad he would provide electrical stimulations which really helped.  He eventually retired with a heart problem.  And we really missed him.

            For several years we tried several other area doctors.  Some were fine but Dr. Bryson had set a standard as a family doctor that few could approach.

          Then one Thursday evening I went to the ER with heart issues.  I was released but was told to see a family doctor the next day.  When I called our practice at Oyster Point my regular doctor was not in on a Friday and I was given an appointment with Dr. David Fuchs, the founder of the practice  And that was the beginning of a very special relationship that lasted for over 12 years.  Dr. Fuchs was a gentleman.  He was intelligent.  He went out of his way to care for us. Often he made an appointment to see us when all his appointments were already taken. He would quickly reply to our messages even when he wasn't on duty.  He would refer us to good specialists when they were needed.  He was always on time and we never felt rushed.  He would provide samples when he could to reduce our medical costs.  We always felt that we were cared for.  We lost a real friend when he retired a few years ago.

          We were blessed over the years to have good doctors, but Dr. Bryson and Dr, Fuchs were exceptional.

          Now I started this blog by saying how much medical care has changed.  If this isn't obvious with the history I  shared, let me share a few specifics.

1.    Doctors no longer have offices in their homes.  Most now have modern facilities which they share with numerous other family doctors. in their group.

2.     Doctors no longer keep supplies of medicines in their offices to give to their patients rather than providing scripts.  Seldom do any even provide samples anymore.

3.     Doctors now make appointments but some still fall behind their schedule and you end up waiting, sometimes 30-60 minutes to be seen.

4.     Family doctors today are quick to refer you to a specialist rather than treating you themselves.

5.     It is almost impossible to have a true family physician to treat you unless you are able to wait a month of so to get another appointment with the same one.  Doctors have too few appointments available and their management doesn't want them to work more patients into their schedule.

6.     Traditional visits are now often replaced by telephone visits or video visits.  One nurse recently remarked that doctors no longer want to see sick folks.  I wonder then who they really want to see.

7.     When you are seen by a doctor they often only one to deal with one problem and they usually don't want to deal with a problem that you didn't share in advance of the visit.

8.     Most doctors today have electronic portals which include results of visits and tests, future appointments and give you a chance to correspond with your doctor.  If they are kept up to date, these are a valuable modern addition to care.  The only problem is that many have their own portal and don't share data.   I presently have five different portals.

9.     And then there is the sharply rising costs of meds.  Dianne presently pays $355 a month for one of her meds.  My inhalers run me about $200 a month and my insulin about $150 a month.  And those charges are after our insurance has kicked in its share.  Then there are many more less expensive meds that we must also take. And then there are insurance costs, copays, costs of tests, and, if needed, hospital bills. Keeping well has become very expensive today.

          So there are just a few observations about changes I have seen over the years.  And the present virus is forcing more changes.  Some of these are very good, others are so-so.  As in anything, much depends upon the skill and concern of the doctor.  Some are in the business to minister to folks, others are in it for the money.  Fortunate is the person who finds a good family doctor who is available and cares for his patients.

ALERT TO OUR READERS

ALERT - We have just been informed that the operators of our blog software plan to make significant changes to the software in June and August.  We don't know yet what these changes will involve nor if they will prevent us from continuing to post blogs using our computers.  About a year ago similar changes were made by our web supplier and we have no longer been able to reach or operate our web site.  We are warning you that this could happen to us again and we might then need to eliminate our blogs.  We are praying that this doesn't happen, but should the blogs no longer be updated each week you will know what has happened.  Continuing then might require us to invest in new and expensive hardware and that might be impossible since we are retired and living on a fixed income.  So we will just need to wait and see what happens.  Thanks for your visits and support over the years.  We just hope it can continue.

Here are the facts ... I guess!

       One of the strange things about this pandemic is the various recommendations, opinions and changes that been rather common.  Who or what should you believe?  Everyone seems to be an expert and willing to share their opinion.  But who is right?

          There are so many Monday morning quarterbacks who think they know how this pandemic should have been handled.  The President takes many hits on his decisions, especially from the party who hates him and wants to get rid of him.  But really, what major leader has done any better in handling the situation in their own country?

          Now it is refreshing when you read something that is practical and useful, such as the list below.  But, unfortunately I don't know if it is fake news or the truth.  it supposedly was prepared by the Head of he Infectious Disease Clinic at the University of Maryland, whoever he or she may be.

          So here is what that person has shared.  Smile or weep.

1. We may have to live with C19 for months or years. Let's not deny it or panic. Let's not make our lives useless. Let's learn to live with this fact.

2. You can't destroy C19 viruses that have penetrated cell walls, drinking gallons of hot water - you'll just go to the bathroom more often.

3. Washing hands and maintaining a two-meter physical distance is the best method for your protection.

4. If you don't have a C19 patient at home, there's no need to disinfect the surfaces at your house.

5. Packaged cargo, gas pumps, shopping carts, and ATMs do not cause infection. If you Wash your hands, live your life as usual.

6. C19 is not a food infection. It is associated with drops of infection like the 'flu. There is no demonstrated risk that C19 is transmitted by food.

7. You can lose your sense of smell with a lot of allergies and viral infections. This is only a nonspecific symptom of C19.

8. Once at home, you don't need to change your clothes urgently and go shower! Purity is a virtue, paranoia is not!

9. The C19 virus doesn't hang in the air for long. This is a respiratory droplet infection that requires close contact.

10. The air is clean, you can walk through the gardens (just keeping your physical protection distance), through parks.

11. It is sufficient to use normal soap against C19, not antibacterial soap. This is a virus, not bacteria.

12. You don't have to worry about your food orders. But you can heat it all up in the microwave if you wish.

13. The chances of bringing C19 home with your shoes is like being struck by lightning twice in a day. I've been working against viruses for 20 years - drop infections don't spread like that!

14. You can't be protected from the virus by taking vinegar, sugarcane juice, and ginger! These are for immunity, not a cure.

15. Wearing a mask for long periods interferes with your breathing and oxygen levels. Wear it only in crowds.

16. Wearing gloves is also a bad idea; the virus can accumulate into the glove and be easily transmitted if you touch your face. Better just to wash your hands regularly.

Immunity is greatly weakened by always staying in a sterile environment. Even if you eat immunity-boosting foods, please go out of your house regularly to any park/beach.

Immunity is increased by EXPOSURE TO PATHOGENS, not by sitting at home and consuming fried/spicy/sugary food and aerated drinks.

          Live life sensibly and to the fullest. Be smart and stay informed!

And What Next?

        Not only has Covid19 changed all of our lives, but the changes are also changing.  Since nobody has ever dealt with this before, many original recommendations continue to be changed.

          Originally we were told to wear gloves and masks.  The recommendation for masks still stands, although many object to them and refuse to wear them.  Now I admit that they are a pain at time, but current recommendations claim they are important.  But breathing with them can be difficult after awhile.  What will it be like when summer finally comes?  And how will you sing with them on?  Will we ever reach a point where they can be discarded?  Will this recommendation ever change?

          Now what about gloves?  I thought that was a reasonable safeguard.  So I, like many, went out and invested in a large supply of gloves. But then they recently discovered that the virus does not stick to most surfaces as originally thought.  But it can stick to gloves

          Last Monday I went to my doctor with my mask and gloves.  At the check-in I was first told to discard my gloves, sanitize my hands, and then put on a new set of gloves which they provided.  Friday my wife went to the same medical practice.  They also told her to throw out her gloves and sanitize her hands.  But they didn't give her replacements.  Her doctor then told her that they have discovered that all the gloves actually do is pick up and carry the virus which you then often deposit on yourself when you touch your face. 

          So I guess gloves are no longer necessary.  But you do need to sanitize and especially wash your hands regularly.  And remember they need to be washed for at least 20 seconds - "Hal-le-lu Hal-le-lu hal-le-lu Hal-le-lu-jah, Praise ye the Lord!"  That chorus has become my favorite to use while I am washing my hands.

          Then there is the red-yellow-green system that has been used by our Governor in PA.  I really have questions about his system and the exceptions he has made.  For example, how are abortion clinics allowed to remain open?  The number of babies killed in them is not much different than the number of folks who have died from Covid19.  But our liberal leadership doesn't care.

         And how is he going to allow schools to open in the Fall as he has already announced?  It's my observation that this is a typical announcement by a "leader" who has never been a teacher or an educational administrator.  They often make major decisions about schools without having any experience working in them. Then they leave the school officials with the difficult task of implementing them.  How are they going to separate students in schools that are already overcrowded?  How are they going to safely feed the students?  How are they going to separate students on school busses?  Where will they get all the additional staff to do all of this?  Who is going to provide the funds needed to help schools which are now deeper in debt than ever before.  Oh yes, I guess there are always taxes.  However there are already some who are proposing legislation to prohibit schools from raising taxes.  No wonder our government is so wacky.

         And I am concerned about the changes that are allowing things to open probably sooner than they should, even though that seems to be what so many people want.   When my wife was with her doctor yesterday she was flatly told that the two of us should not attend church or even be pressured into attending.  It just isn't safe for us to do so.

           She also told my wife that her grandfather is a pastor and he shared how at one church they rushed to open services.  Their choir met to practice and then sing in their Sunday service.  They maintained the proper recommended distances.  I'm not sure if they used gloves or masks.  But about two weeks later about half of the choir members were suddenly diagnosed as having Covid19.  Was rushing the opening of services worthwhile?

          Well I wish things were back to normal.  I miss church, especially knowing that I may never be able to attend again.  I miss sports, especially the Phillies, the Eagles and Penn State.  I miss getting some of the medical tests and care that I really need.  But I especially miss my family.  It has been a real sacrifice not to visit with them. It has been about three months since we could see them in person.  And I just hope that the Lord allows us to at least attend my granddaughter's wedding in December.  

          But the Lord knows all about it and our trust is in Him.  I am often reminded of the words of an old hymn, "Oh Thou who changest not, abide with me."  Thankfully we serve a God who is faithful and loving - He doesn't change and He is the same yesterday, today and forever.  And Covid19 is no challenge for Him.

Be A Blessing

        So what does one do during an pandemic?  Being sheltered at home eliminates many of the choices that you might normally make in a "normal" situation.

          You might spend your time during jigsaw or word puzzles.  You might spend time watching television or playing computer games.  You might spend time reading.  You might take naps - several of them.  You might try to catch up on your house cleaning.  You might pay bills and try to organize your finances. Maybe you have a hobby like painting or sewing or woodworking that can take up your time.  How about online shopping or even exercising? 

          There certainly are many ways to spend our unexpected free time.  But as the days drag on, many of these things can become boring, except maybe taking naps.  You can soon develop cabin fever, but hopefully not a real fever.

          Let me suggest a very important project - becoming a blessing to others.  

          With church activities canceled or put on hold, many of our opportunities to minister are no longer there.  Bible study teachers, musicians, ushers, greeters, child care workers, librarians, financial helpers, sound personnel, transportation helpers and many others are not presently needed.  So what opportunities are there to allow these folks to continue to minister?  Or should they just have an extended vacation from ministry?

          Let me suggest an area of ministry that is usually neglected by the church - people to people communications.  Not only do people need the Lord, but they also need human friends who care.  But how do you show you care?

          As I've mentioned in previous blogs, the telephone can become a real ministry tool.  Learn to use it regularly to encourage others.  Can you imagine what this time must be like for lonely widows or widowers?  Or how about folks who have physical limitations?  The days can be so long for these folks who are alone and think nobody really cares (and maybe they are right about this).

          Now I personally resist using the telephone but I love to communicate by e-mails.  That probably isn't as good as hearing an actual voice, but it is an easy way to communicate.  Now while we can't text, today most folks can.  So use what tools you have.

          Remember special events like birthdays and holidays.  But even better than those days are notes sharing "just thinking of you".  What an easy way to become a blessing to others.

          And if you are physically able, find some ways to help others, especially those who are limited in what they are able to do.  For example, we have a neighbor who daily brings our morning newspaper from the end of our drive to our front door.  What a help and blessing this effort is to us.

         If others don't share their needs with you, then take some time to think about the needs they might have.  Many years ago, during my mother's death, a family from our church unexpectedly showed up while we were away and cleaned up all of our leaves.  What a surprise.  How thoughtful and helpful.  What a blessing that was.  It is a gift that we have never forgotten.
          Many have lost their jobs and are now just scraping by.  They might be embarassed to share those needs, but a note of encouragement and a gift card just might "make their day".

          All of us have needs whether we are seniors, or handicapped, or living alone or discouraged or even a parent confined with children.  There must be something we can do to help them even if it is an encouraging personal contact.  Maybe they need something at the store.  Maybe they have some yard work that needs done.  Maybe there are some home repairs that need attended to.  Maybe they need a ride to the doctor or the pharmacy or to somewhere else.

          So instead of worrying about yourself, why not spend your time looking for ways to use this time to become a blessing to others. Ask the Lord to point you to others and their needs.  By helping them, you too will be blest.

Out in the highways and byways of life,

Many are weary and sad;

Carry the sunshine where darkness is rife,

Making the sorrowing glad.

Make me a blessing, Make me a blessing.

Out of my life may Jesus shine.

Make me a blessing, O Savior I pray,

Make me a blessing to someone today.

Tell the sweet story of Christ and His love,

Tell of His pow'r to forgive;

Others will trust Him if only you prove

True, every moment you live. 

Make me a blessing, Make me a blessing.

Out of my life may Jesus shine.

Make me a blessing, O Savior I pray,

Make me a blessing to someone today.

Give as 'twas given to you in you need,

Love as the Master loved you;

Be to the helpless a helper indeed,

Unto your mission be true. 

Make me a blessing, Make me a blessing.

Out of my life may Jesus shine.

Make me a blessing, O Savior I pray,

Make me a blessing to someone today.

Do You Remember?

          While we are isolated here is something to stretch your brains - especially you "older" folks.

01.  After the Lone Ranger saved the day and rode off into the sunset, the  grateful citizens would ask, Who was that masked man?

Invariably, someone would answer, “I don't know, but he left this behind.”    What did he leave  behind?   ________________.    

 02.  When the Beatles first came to the U.S. In early 1964, we all watched them  on The ____ ___________ Show.

 03.  'Get your kicks, __ _________ _______.'

  04.  'The story you are about to see is true.   The names have been changed to  _____ _ _____.'

05.  'In the jungle, the mighty jungle, ____ ____ ____ ____.'

06.  After the Twist, The Mashed Potato, and the Watusi, we 'danced' under a stick that was lowered as low as we could go in a dance called the  '_____.'

07.  Nestle's makes the very best....  _________.'

08.  Satchmo was America's 'Ambassador of Goodwill.'   Our parents shared this  great jazz trumpet player with us.  

His name was  __________  ___________.

09.  What takes a licking and keeps on ticking?  ___________.

10.  Red Skeleton's hobo character was named ______ ___ ________ and Red always  ended his television show by saying, 'Good Night, and '________   ________ ’

11.  Some Americans who protested the Vietnam War did so by burning their   ______ _______.

12.  The cute little car with the engine in the back and the trunk in the front  was called the VW. What other names did it go by? _____ &  _______.

13.  In 1971, singer Don MacLean sang a song about, 'the day the music died.'  This was a tribute to _______ ____________.

14.  We can remember the first satellite placed into orbit.   The Russians did it.   It was called __________.

15.  One of the big fads of the late 50's and 60's was a large plastic ring that  we twirled around our waist.  It was called the ______ _____.     
 16.  Remember LS/MFT _____ _____/_____ _____ _____?

17.  Hey Kids!   What time is it?   It's _____ ______ _____!

 18.  Who knows what secrets lie in the hearts of men? Only The _____  Knows!

 19.  There was a song that came out in the 60's that was "a grave yard smash".   Its name was the ______ ______!

20.  Alka Seltzer used a "boy with a tablet on his head" as its Logo/Representative.   What was the boy's name?  ________

 ANSWERS:  

01. The  Lone Ranger left behind a silver bullet.

02. The Ed Sullivan Show

03.  On Route 66

04. To protect the innocent.

05.  The Lion Sleeps Tonight

06.  The limbo

07.  Chocolate

08.  Louis Armstrong

09.  The Timex watch

10.  Freddy, The Freeloader and 'Good Night and God Bless.'

11.  Draft cards (Bras were also burned, not flags, as some have guessed)

12.  Beetle or Bug

13.  Buddy Holly

14.  Sputnik

15.  Hoola-hoop

16.  Lucky Strike/Means Fine Tobacco

17.  Howdy Doody Time

18.  Shadow

19.  Monster  Mash

20.  Speedy

          And, finally, recently somebody sent me the following poem.   I am sure that a few of you can relate to it.

I remember the corned beef of my Childhood,  

And the bread that we cut with a knife,

When the Children helped with the housework,

And the men went to work not the wife.

The cheese never needed a fridge,  

And the bread was so crusty and hot,

The Children were seldom unhappy,

And the Wife was content with her lot.

I remember the milk from the bottle,  

With the yummy cream on the top,

Our dinner came hot from the oven,

And not from a freezer; or shop.

The kids were a lot more contented,  

They didn't need money for kicks,

Just a game with their friends in the road,

And sometimes the Saturday flicks.

I remember the shop on the corner,  

Where biscuits for pennies were sold

Do you think I'm a bit too nostalgic?

Or is it ... .I'm just getting Old?

 Bathing was done in a wash tub,  

With plenty of rich foamy suds

But the ironing seemed never ending

As Mum pressed everyone's 'duds'.

I remember the slap on my backside,  

And the taste of soap if I swore

Anorexia and diets weren't heard of

And we hadn't much choice what we wore.

Do you think that bruised our ego?  

Or our initiative was destroyed?

We ate what was put on the table

And I think life was better enjoyed.

Author, Unknown   ..

If you can remember those days ..  

Continue to enjoy your Retirement.