Warm Thoughts

Some time ago, a dear friend and great grandma who has faced many emotional challenges in her life, shared some thoughts about counting. This dear friend regularly reads this Warm Thoughts column and wanted to share the thoughts by an unknown author with all you dear readers out there, somewhere. We live in an age where we have many choices and changes. Some time ago, I heard someone state that "pain is inevitable, but misery and being miserable is a choice." In the School of learning and hard knocks, the following thoughts may warm our hearts and perhaps motivate us in our own countdown.

"Count your blessings instead of your crosses, count your gains instead of your losses. Count your friends instead of your foes. Count your smiles instead of your tears, count your full years instead of your lean. Count your kind deeds instead of your mean. Count your health instead of your wealth. Count on God instead of yourself." Thanks to your friend for sharing these warm thoughts. Your thoughtful gift of sharing, perhaps touched some dear soul who takes time to read and live these thoughts.

A Thought to Ponder: Choose carefully the company you keep, for you may become what they are.

A Warm Thought: Choose carefully the memories you live with. Have a beautiful day counting your blessings!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Dr. Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record, September 7th 1996.

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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast,Spotify,Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

Recently, I read a very interesting article on the challenges of aging. Studies by the experts state that "the generation who are celebrating their 50th, 60th and 70th anniversaries have succeeded in kicking the blabbers out of the stereotypes of aging." Perhaps this can be explained by one word - attitude. The experts stated, "the attitudes of a 70-year-old today are equivalent to those of a 50-year-old, but only a decade or two ago." It is interesting how many couples are in their 50th, 60th and even 70th wedding anniversaries. More individuals are also reaching that century mark. The late George Burns stated, "I see people who, the minute they get to be 60, start rehearsing to be old. They practice when they sit down and grunting when they get up, and by the time they get to be 70, they're a hit. They've got the part - they're old."

I like to think that the streams of life bring depth and wisdom in our lives. Goth finished his Faust at 81. At 80, Verdi produced his famous Falstaff. Tennyson wrote "Crossing the Bar" at 83. Valtaire was still penning plays at 84. Monet was painting great pictures at 86. Marian Baininray in "The Stillness is Dancing" says, "At 50, the mind has yet to reach its zenith. At 60, it as at its best, and then declines gradually that at 80, those who have kept themselves mentally alert can be just as productive as at 30. Judgment and reason may have actually improved and creative imagination is scarcely touched by age. I think Mark Twain says it best, "Age is mind over matter. If you don't mind, it doesn't matter."

Warm Thoughts: If you are too busy to laugh, you are too busy. The old are the precious gems in the center of the household. Chinese proverb. Have many warm thoughts every day!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Dr. Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record, August 19, 1996.

Download the Found Photo Freebie and cherish your memories of the past.

Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast,Spotify,Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

August is the time of year that families take that last fling and perhaps go to the mountains before school starts. It is often a quiet time of reflection, a time to reflect on many happy summertime activities. At a quiet moment, I discovered some beautiful thoughts by an unknown author that I'd like to share with my loyal readers of the Warm Thoughts column.

"In this special moment in life...think freely, practice patience, smile often, savor special moments, make new friends, rediscover old ones. Tell those you love that you do. Feel deeply, forget trouble, forgive an enemy. Hope, grow, be happy and joyful. Count your blessings. Observe miracles, let them happen. Discard worry, give, give in, trust enough to take. Pick some flowers, share them. Keep a promise. Look for rainbows, gaze at the stars. See beauty everywhere. Work Hard, be wise, try to understand. Take time for people, make time for yourself. Laugh heartily, spread joy. Take a chance, reach out, let someone in. Try something new. Slow down, be soft sometimes. Believe in yourself. Trust others. See a sunrise, listen to rain. Reminisce, cry when you need to, trust life. Have faith, enjoy wonder, comfort a friend. Have good ideas. Make mistakes, learn from them. Celebrate life." Author, unknown.

More Warm Thoughts: See a silver lining in every cloud. Enjoy the Beautiful Sunsets. Have many warm thoughts every day!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G Werner.

Published in the Marion Record, August 15th, 1996.

Download the Found Photo Freebie and cherish your memories of the past.

Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast,Spotify,Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

Summertime. Good old summertime! It is a good time to get in some summer reading. My grandchildren from Ohio sent me the book, "If Tea Cups Could Talk," by Emily Barnes. I have enjoyed reading the many warm thoughts in this book over a cup of tea. I've also had many special moments with the grandchildren, as we have our tea party.

I have learned some interesting lessons about tea cups. China dishes recovered from shipwrecks are often good as new, long after the ship itself has dissolved in the salt water. Porcelain is fragile, but it is also remarkably durable, like us. Like life, humans are beautiful and breakable. Like tea cups, humans can heal and grow and move beyond disaster. We can reach out to one another in encouragement and comfort. Nancy Reagan has stated that, "a woman is like a tea bag. It is only when she is in hot water that you realize how strong she is." Tea time offers so many wonderful possibilities for nurturing friendships, and if tea cups could talk, they would also say so much about the past and also about the future. For hundreds of years, "come for tea" has been another way of saying, "Come. Let's share a little bit of our lives together." If teacups could talk, their message no doubt would be, "use me."

Warm Thoughts Over the Tea Cup: "If you are cold, tea will warm you. If you are too heated, it will cool you. If you are depressed, it will cheer you. If you are exhausted, it will calm you." William Gladstone. "She was passionately interested in everything I did. She spoke with candor and good grace. Then, defying the reality of crutches and straightened knee, on wings of hospitality, she flew to brew the tea. Tom Hegg from "A Cup of Christmas Tea." Have many warm thoughts over a cup of tea!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Dr Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record, August 8th, 1996.

Download the Found Photo Freebie and cherish your memories of the past.

Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast,Spotify,Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

Recently, I read a book by H. Jackson Brown Jr. entitled, "Live and Learn and Pass it On." In the book, people, ages 5 to 95 share what they have discovered about life, love, and other good stuff. Some of the thoughts are a bit humorous, but somehow we can get the message. I've personally discovered throughout my years that if we really listen, we can learn so much.

The following are a few quotes from individuals, and it lists their age when they said these words. "I've learned that goldfish don't eat jello." Age five. "I've learned that trust is the single most important factor in both personal and professional relationships." Age 20. "I've learned that nothing of value comes without effort." Age 64. "I've learned that if you care, it shows." Age 30. "I've learned that kindness is more important than perfection." Age 70. "I've learned that education, experience, and memories are three things no one can take away from you." Age 67. "I've learned that self pity is a waste of time." Age 81. "I've learned that anger manages everything poorly." Age 53. "I've learned that some money costs too much." Age 51. "I've learned that if your children feel safe, wanted and loved, you are a successful parent." Age 39. "I've learned that encouragement from a good teacher can turn a student's life around." Age 44. "I've learned that I don't feel my age as long as I focus on my dreams instead of my regrets." Age 83. "I've learned that it is impossible to teach without learning something yourself." Age 51. "I've learned that learning to forgive takes practice." Age 15. "I've learned that I still have a lot to learn." Age 92.

Warm Thought: A life, like a garden, requires cultivation. Have many warm thoughts every day!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Dr Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record, August 1st, 1996.

Download the Found Photo Freebie and cherish your memories of the past.

Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast,Spotify,Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

During July, in the month when we celebrate independence day, many patriotic thoughts come to mind as I see "Old Glory" wave high in the skies. If that flag could speak, what would it say? In my thought file, I have the following thoughts about our flag.

"I am your flag. I was born on June 14th, 1777. I am more than just a cloth shaped into design. I am the refuge of the world's oppressed people. I am the silent sentinel of freedom. I am the inspiration for which American patriots gave their lives and fortunes. I have led your sons into battle from Valley Forge to the bloody ridges of Korea. I walk in silence with each of your honored dead to their final resting place beneath the silent white crosses, row upon row. I have flown through peace and war, strife and prosperity, and amidst it all I have been respected. My stripes symbolized the blood filled in defense of this glorious nation. My white stripes signify the burning tears shed by Americans who lost their sons. My blue field is indicative of God's heaven under which I fly. My stars, clustered together, unify 50 states as one - for God and country. "Old Glory" is my nickname and proudly I wave on high. Honor me, respect me, defend me with your lives and your fortunes. Never let my enemies tear me down from my lofty position, lest I never return. Keep alight the fires of patriotism, strive earnestly for the spirit of democracy, worship eternal God and keep His commandments and I shall remain the bulwark of peace and freedom for all mankind."

Patriotic Thoughts: Patriotism is the sum of the three virtues - faith, hope and charity. Faith in the principles of our government, hope in the future of our country, charity toward all and malice toward none. Patriotism is that spirit that makes us help our neighbors when they are in distress, and extend sympathy when they are stricken. Patriotism is a tugging at our heartstrings in a sincere kinship with those who toil in the field, shop, or marketplace. Patriotism is loving one's country, respecting its traditions, and honoring its people - high or low, rich or poor. God bless America!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Dr. Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record July 31st, 1997.

Download the Found Photo Freebie and cherish your memories of the past.

Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast,Spotify,Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

Many of the readers of this warm thoughts column are aware that I write these lines a week before you have the opportunity to read the column. When you read this column, I will have returned from the International Congress on the Family, which was held on July 5th - 9th in Denver, Colorado. So stay tuned to this column as I will share with you my personal experiences and thoughts from this Congress.

As I write these lines, they're anticipating 6,000 participants from all over North America and around the world at this International Congress. Those who come we hope will gain a fresh perspective and a renewal of hope for the future of the family and for Christian family values. As I anticipate my attendance at this Congress, I cannot help but reflect on the International Congress for the Family held in England in July 1990. It was my joy to be in England that year and serve on the publicity committee for that Congress. Opening that Congress was the Princess of Wales and among the many outstanding speakers was Mother Teresa of Calcutta. Mother Teresa closed the conference with the theme, "Family - Community of Love." She has inspired many in servant leadership in her work with the poor and the sick. She won the 1979 Nobel Peace Prize. Her love and concern for children has inspired many people to be advocates for the children of the world. Few people have matched the contributions this saintly woman has made to mankind. Now in her 80s, she continues her service to humanity.

The 1995 International Congress on the family in Denver is a joint effort of the American Association of Christian counselors and Focus on the Family. Stay tuned and experience with me a landmark event, renewing our hope together for the future of the family.

Warm Thoughts: Your kindness influences your children. Your humor influences your home. Your joy influences your actions. Your service influences your society. Author Unknown. Celebrate the family!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Dr. Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record July 13th, 1995.

Download the Found Photo Freebie and cherish your memories of the past.

Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast,Spotify,Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

The month of July is a very special month. July has many reasons to celebrate. Though not widely known, it was on July 2nd, not July 4th, that the Continental Congress passed the resolution declaring the independence from the colonies. We celebrate Independence Day on July 4th. Are you a celebrator? Having lived several years in the Fourth of July city, Seward, Nebraska, Independence Day has very special memories for me. Singing the Star Spangled Banner has inspired millions and moved many to tears. It is symbolized with the flag, what it really does mean to be a loyal American.

Are you aware that it was here in the state of South Dakota, that the Star Spangled Banner received the first impetus which eventually led to its adoption as our national anthem? I was very impressed when I first learned about the history of this stirring song. It all happened in 1892, when Colonel Calb H Carlton assumed command of the 8th US Calvary Regiment at Fort Meade near Sturgis. Carlton writes in his memoirs, that he and his wife discuss the fact that the United States had no official song. Mrs. Carlton suggested they do something about it. It was at Fort Meade that Colonel Carlton ordered his Calvary band to play the Star Spangled Banner at all parades and formations. He further states that "all persons, including civilians, should rise respectfully and all men not under arms would remove their hats." Colonel Carlton promoted the idea beyond his own South Dakota base, and consequently the practice was adopted by other commanders.

There was something patriotically contagious about the show of respect for the song and the flag it honored. It was a one sentence bill that passed on March 3rd, 1931, and signed by President Hoover that designated the Star Spangled Banner as the National Anthem of the United States of America. The patriotic custom began in the Black Hills, and so it gives our national anthem its roots in South Dakota.

Patriotic Thoughts: Francis Scott Key, a lawyer, wrote the lyrics for our national anthem during the morning of September 14th, 1814. At the dawn's early light, he saw the American flag fly and in a burst of patriotic fervor, He hurriedly penned the immortal words, "We thank the father of our national anthem." With renewed patriotism, let's celebrate Independence Day. Happy Independence Day!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Dr. Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record, June 25th, 1998.

Download the Found Photo Freebie and cherish your memories of the past.

Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast,Spotify,Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

The first day of summer! Good old Summertime is very near. Next Sunday not only is the first day of summer, but it is also Father's Day. In our own special way, we honor our fathers on this day. We have very special memories. Many memories touched my heart as I read about the "Old Fashion Daddy."

Daddy was from the Old School

Daddy was from the old school. He learned his lessons well. He passed them on to me, I'm not ashamed to tell. Daddy was from the old school, he worked hard every day. He didn't want a handout with dignity he earned his pay. Daddy was from the old school, a mixture of the right stuff. He knew how to be tender and he knew how to be tough. Daddy was from the old school, big boys weren't supposed to cry. Sometimes he would slip and I'd see tears in his eyes. Daddy was from the old school, he never took the last piece of cake. He would always nod at me, I knew it was mine to take. Daddy was from the old school, his clothes lasted a long time. He bought me the latest, sometimes spending his last dime. Daddy was from the old school, he loved the American way. He believed in freedom and guarded it every day. Daddy was from the old school, I didn't understand it back then. But now I fully see he was teaching me how to win. Daddy was from the old school, I guess I am too. Daddy, thank you for the lessons. I owe so much to you.

These may be tears in your eyes as you too read about the Daddy from the Old School. "It takes a man to cry," is a thought not often expressed. Children are truly blessed by the wise actions of their fathers. Blessed be fathers who honor their responsibilities in guiding their families. A salute to fathers on Father's Day.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Dr. Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marian Record, June 18th 1998.
Download the Found Photo Freebie and cherish your memories of the past.

Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast,Spotify,Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

When you read this column, it will be only a few days before Flag Day. I have often wondered if "Old Glory" can tell her story, just what she might tell us. Recently, I read some warm thoughts which I'd like to share with you, my dear readers of this column.

"Some people call me 'Old Glory.' Others refer to me as the 'Star Spangled Banner' or the 'Stars and Stripes,' but whatever they call me, I am your flag. I remember some time ago, people lined up on both sides of the street to watch a parade. And naturally, I was leading every parade - proudly waving in the breeze. What happened? I'm still the same old flag. But now I don't feel as proud as I used to be. When I come down your street, you just stand there with your hands in your pockets. Then I see the children running around and shouting. Is it a sin to be patriotic anymore? Have people forgotten what I stand for? And where I've been?"

Our flag was first raised on June 14th, 1777. And oh, it is more than a piece of cloth having a design of stars and stripes. It symbolizes the greatest nation on Earth. It has been the refuge of millions of oppressed people from everywhere. It has stood for freedom from want and fear. The red stripes symbolize hardiness and courage - the hardiness of the early pioneers, the courage of the common working man. The white stripe signify purity and innocence - the purity of the idealists who believe that each person is a child of God, and the innocence that strives for his right to be here. The blue field is indicative of vigilance, perseverance, and justice - the vigilance to protect man's freedoms and perseverance that rejects all defeat and justice, the goal of free men everywhere. The star is unified on the field of blue embrace the 50 states as one, unified for the good of mankind and country. Honor her, respect her, defend her. Never let her enemies from within or without, tear her down in shameful defeat. Lest she never rise again. Place God first and others second, that our nation will remain the bulwark of peace, freedom, and equal opportunity for all mankind. This is your flag. Let your heart salute her.

Warm and Winsome Thoughts: Dear friends, let us protect and respect our flag, a symbol that is so important, significant and meaningful to those of us who love and honor and revere our country. Respect and protect our "Old Glory."

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Dr. Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record, June 11th, 1998.

Download the Found Photo Freebie and cherish your memories of the past.

Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast,Spotify,Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina