But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. 2 Corinthians 4:7-0 (NIV)
We have all heard the saying that houseguests like fish begin to stink after three days. Our little Doberman, Lucy, believes that goes for dog guests as well. Her initial acceptance of Midgie and Bingo has evolved into cringing whenever they come near her. She walks with her head hung down in despair and runs to hide and get away from them. But, when Bingo and Midgie play, Lucy tries to be the peacemaker, getting between the two of them and growling and pushing them apart. She has never liked loud noises and reacts to Midgie’s howling like I might to fingernails on a chalk board. I wish she could understand that it will all be over by Saturday when my family returns to retrieve their dogs. Since she doesn’t know, she composed the following message.
To Whom It May Concern:
Come get your dogs now. They are making me crazy. I do not like to be stalked like a deer in hunting season. I do not like being jumped upon as if I am a trampoline. I do not like my ears being chewed upon as if they are a leather shoe. I do not like someone trying to take my dinner, and I certainly do not like seeing other dogs eat all my dentabones. Their whining and wanting to play all the time is exhausting. I am not getting my evening nap because they always want to be entertained. Your dogs are intruding into my family time and taking my opportunities to be with my owners. Certainly they may look cute and cuddly, but I am the only one allowed to be petted (with the exception of Sky, of course). How am I supposed to practice mind control over my owners when your dogs are constantly getting in the way? As soon as you receive this message, I expect you to drop everything and come home and get your dogs. And do not think about bringing them back over here ever again. I just might have to get rough with them. I’m serious. So, come get them. Now or someone will get hurt. I mean it. I’ve had all I can take. Respectfully, Lucy
Like Lucy, we all have times when life seems to gang up on us. Nothing goes our way and one thing after another threatens to bring us down. It is just part of this earth in which we temporarily call home. The apostle Paul wrote the verses knowing that more than any of us. With no place to call home and traveling from place to place balancing preaching with making a living, his was not an easy life. Despite the hardships and persecution, God gave him the strength to do more than survive. With His power and grace, Paul thrived even in the harshest of circumstances. And so can we! I will go and whisper that to Lucy now. As soon as I can get her out of the closet where she is hiding.
Hi IR! Weigh n' Pay is at the St. Pete Gandy Blvd Goodwill…not the main store but on the side up a ramp with a small sign that says "outlet" Open Tues-Sat form 9 to about noon. 40 cents a pound for glass…i think 50 cents for the rest. Bring gloves. You may need some thrift therapy when the dogs leave!