Here's a stern warning from our Emerald Isle friends. I visited Ireland a little over 14 years ago and it was struggling at that time with over 15% unemployment, which was an actual improvement of much dire figures in the 70's and 80's. Ireland through fiscal responsibility went from being the poorest country in Europe for decades to becoming the richest country. The way they became poor is what we in the U.S. are doing now. The way they got out of depression is what many conservative economists are saying we should be doing.

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"...We went on a borrowing, spending and taxing spree, and that nearly drove us under," said Deputy Prime Minister Mary Harney. "It was because we nearly went under that we got the courage to change."

And change Ireland did. In a quite unusual development, the government, the main trade unions, farmers and industrialists came together and agreed on a program of fiscal austerity, slashing corporate taxes to 12.5 percent, far below the rest of Europe, moderating wages and prices, and aggressively courting foreign investment. In 1996, Ireland made college education basically free, creating an even more educated work force.   

*The End of the Rainbow: Thamas L. Friedman June 29, 2005  New York Times

We can follow this example now, or wait until things get real bad, and then do it.

President Obama, as you place your hand on the Word of God, Americans expect you to faithfully execute the office of the presidency by that same oath which you take. Our responsibility is to pray for God's conviction and guidance in your decisions - for Him to help you where you need help, and correct you where you need correcting. And your responsibility is to read and know the wisdom of that Holy Book, and govern accordingly. So help you (and us) God. 2 Chronicles 19:7

President George W.Bush, that speech was to the point and filled with honor. You gave America strength and hope. Thank You. We will miss you.

Patrick Swayze, you brought years of wonderful entertainment for us on the big screen. We all loved your performance in "Ghost." Now you have our attention once more. Only this time it is in a sad way. In some small measure we can feel your pain. And yet, that falls short of what you and your family are actually going through. Back in 2005 my mother was diagnosed with colon cancer. It did not look good. Dire medical predictions were made. Everyone was devastated. But then came constant, persistent prayer, and she was healed! Praise God! Doctors said she would be bed ridden and most likely deteriorate. Three weeks after coming out of the hospital she was out doing gardening. Even though she was required to take small, minimum, doses of chemo as a precaution, they even took her off that rather quickly.

It will be a miracle if you even read this article, but if you do by the grace of God, "Silver and gold I have none, but what I do have I give. In the name of the Lord Jesus, rise and be whole!" Even if you don't read it, "In the name of the Lord Jesus, rise and be healed!" And spend the rest of your life serving Him with joy and gladness. Miracles do happen, and at some point in our lives we all we need one. Why not you?