Act Whole Be Whole !!

I am coming to a great conclusion in my life. In order to be whole I must act whole in every area of my life. I am learning to listen more, speak less, and think before I speak. My mouth can get me into a lot of trouble. I am also learning to trust those around me. I am Bipolar, and may always need those around me who can help to guide me when I am not on track. Pride will always shut me down, and humility will build me up.

Surgery

Friday April 23rd, I had sinus surgery at my oral surgeon's in Martinsburg, WV to take care of a bad sinus infection. I do not remember most of it because of the anesthesia . I remember waking up to it 's all done. Karen drove me home and went and got my meds to finish knocking out the infection. For four days I was in so much pain that I just slept, and took my pain meds. Now, on Tuesday the pain is going away, but the swelling is still there. I am working from home making calls and doing my reports. Thanks for all of the prayers and support of my friends. After three months the area will be healed and the process starts again. I will have a bone graft to prepare for my new implant. The whole plan will take over one year giving us plenty of time to prepare financially. Even though I worry a lot about this, I do know that God takes care of His children. My lesson is the more I trust the more God trusts me with. Pray that this whole plan will work out, and that my mouth will be stronger than ever. Have a great day, Van

Golf

While on a mini-vacation, my son took me golfing for the very first time. I was delighted, and hit a few good shots. I needed to ask him which club to use every time, and he was very patient with me.I arrived home, and felt very good about our day spent on the course. I think I was bit by the golf bug, for I decided to call another friend from church about where to buy a set of clubs. He astonished me by saying that he had a set ready for me. They are now in my trunk, and they are a perfect set for a man 5' 11". Included in the set are tons of balls( which I WILL lose), a ball grabber, and a brand new golf glove. I am just elated. Thanks to all of my family and friends that have made me a very happy man.

Water

I cannot believe how we lived without water in the house. On Tuesday April 13th, we arrived home from a glorious trip to the National Harbor to find no water in our home. Friends came over to find that the problem was not in the electric side in the basement. We pulled the well pump to find that it was 30 years old and was bad. I went and picked up a new pump and in a matter of an hour or so, we had cool clean water again. The first day of no water we went without taking showers. The second day we used gallons of water to wash up, and then the problem was fixed.
I appreciate the pilgrims, and the settlers for History's sake, but I thank God for the technology to enjoy electricity, water, and air conditioning. I do everyday thank God for His provision. God is so good and we should thank Him. Power goes out and we grumble. I am trying to be a good steward of my resources. God, thank you for providing all things for me to enjoy. We are starting our small garden, and will eat of the produce that God makes happen. Be Blessed! Van

Mini Vacation!

In a few minutes we are leaving for National Harbour Maryland. We are staying in a time share that is brand new. Karen and I will meet our son and wife and two children. There are so many things to do there. I am so excited. The weather is a bit cooler, in the lower 70's. Our place is settled right on the Potomac river. We may take a Potomac River taxi to take a tour of the area.We are taking food to save money, and will take some walks around the area. I truly believe that you and you family need to get away a few times a year to relax and reflect on the good things in your lives. I, being Bipolar need to search my heart and soul every day. I am getting better. I have been stable for 18 months. I feel very good about my live. My Psychiatrist has decreased my medicine, and this has helped me too. All in all, life has been good. I take time to go outside and breathe in. God is good to me. Have a good weekend, Love, Van

Heart of the matter!

I am a happy man. Today I had the opportunity to go and minister to a young man in need. I believe that we are all created to give more than we recieve. I also know that there is a need in us to go and give not looking to recieve anything in return.I know this and practice these principles as much as I can. With Bipolar illness I have to fight to stay ahead of my emotions. I want to reach out and need to keep my spiritual man in tune.
Today I felt great about talking with this young man. He is struggling, and just needed someone to talk with. I know that God does use us as we yield to Him. When I struggle I know that there are people to stand beside me and help me. Thanks to them, I am moving ahead in my progress of healing.
My heart hurts for hurting people. I know that a lot of people make there own bad circumstances. I am learning to help those who really need help.The bible says that many are ruined because of their stubborn wills. It also says that a man that has a teachable spirit will learn the ways of the Lord. If I have a good heart , Lord help me to share with people who need help. Today is a good day to reach out of your way to help someone.