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=> Testimonies / Prayer Requests / Fellowship => Topic started by: Roy Martin on December 02, 2009, 09:21:26 PM
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What has come of Joe? I miss him and his post.
Roy
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What has come of Joe? I miss him and his post.
Roy
Hey Roy,
John Popovich and I were asking the same question, but realizing that he goes in the Forum as Hidden, but hasn't had time to Post. I called him a few times, but he hasn't called me back, he's been busy with work. That's all I know.
Kind Regards, Samson.
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I miss him also
:-\
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Prince Edward Island, Canada, I believe:
http://www.greatcanadianrivers.com/rivers/hillriver/hill-home.html
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Hi Roy, Samson, Brenda & Fester,
Thanks for asking and or responding to the question raised by Roy.
I am doing well, still studying, meditating on this journey we are all experiencing, looking for glimmers of Light wherever I happen to be.
Obviously my posting has screeched to a halt, the reason being that apparently I have lost discernment and/or understanding of the meaning of the term "teaching." This is also why I resigned as a moderator, what value is a moderator who lacks any discernment? ;)
There have been allegations or accusations directed at me for attempting to be a "teacher" and/or gain a following, neither of which at least to my mind's eye and consciousness is true but with perception being our personal reality it left me no option other than ceasing to share any insights, thoughts or questions that could be interpreted by some as teaching.
I do consider myself a student of His Word at this point being drawn primarily to the patterns, parables and riddles contained within the scriptures, I cannot ever recall making a declaration that "this is Truth" or this is the only way you can view this or that book, chapter or verse. If I have please show me and I will be more than happy to delete it.
Perhaps at times I offended some by speculation but it was only motivated by a desire to inspire others to open their bibles, minds and spirit, to dig for treasure and not wait for it to be delivered to them.
Anyway, there is no bitterness on my part, everything that happens to me or anyone else has lessons to be drawn from the experience, even if we don't understand it in this age I feel confident we will in the age to come.
Oops, there I go "teaching" again. :P
Thanks again for asking!
Peace,
Joe
P.S. Fester I got a chuckle from your response, but I am actually thousands of miles away from there.
My backyard backs up on this Hillsborough River;
http://images.google.ca/images?q=hillsborough+river&oe=utf-8&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&client=firefox-a&um=1&ie=UTF-8&ei=gsIXS6rwNYSMswO4w-GgDg&sa=X&oi=image_result_group&ct=title&resnum=4&ved=0CBwQsAQwAw
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Joe,
We have all been the losers here! I'm sorry, but This forum has lost a unique moderator in you :'(
I miss your insights, your wit, and your gentle wisdom..anyone who has a problem with that, just has a problem! I love all the other mods here, each one has a kind, sweet spirit..(even Craig!) just kidding, Craig! ;) Honestly all the moderators are the best!! You, Joe..are loved and missed! :'(
Praying for you,
Kathy :'( :-*
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Joe it's my opinion that anyone that accused you, or judged you are the ones without discernment.
Yes I know my comment is on the edge of deletion, or causing this thread to get locked, but this just absolutely upsets me, >:( and I'm sorry to hear it. :'(
Roy
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For Joe,
This Songs for you, my Wife and I dedicate this Song to you. See Below !
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_izt7vlJKM0
Enjoy, Samson & Frecklegirl
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Now Samson & Freckle Girl if that doesn't bring a smile and a tear to Joe..then nothing will! :D
Kathy ;)
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Hi Roy, Samson, Brenda & Fester,
Thanks for asking and or responding to the question raised by Roy.
I am doing well, still studying, meditating on this journey we are all experiencing, looking for glimmers of Light wherever I happen to be.
Obviously my posting has screeched to a halt, the reason being that apparently I have lost discernment and/or understanding of the meaning of the term "teaching." This is also why I resigned as a moderator, what value is a moderator who lacks any discernment? ;)
There have been allegations or accusations directed at me for attempting to be a "teacher" and/or gain a following, neither of which at least to my mind's eye and consciousness is true but with perception being our personal reality it left me no option other than ceasing to share any insights, thoughts or questions that could be interpreted by some as teaching.
I do consider myself a student of His Word at this point being drawn primarily to the patterns, parables and riddles contained within the scriptures, I cannot ever recall making a declaration that "this is Truth" or this is the only way you can view this or that book, chapter or verse. If I have please show me and I will be more than happy to delete it.
Perhaps at times I offended some by speculation but it was only motivated by a desire to inspire others to open their bibles, minds and spirit, to dig for treasure and not wait for it to be delivered to them.
Anyway, there is no bitterness on my part, everything that happens to me or anyone else has lessons to be drawn from the experience, even if we don't understand it in this age I feel confident we will in the age to come.
Oops, there I go "teaching" again. :P
Thanks again for asking!
Peace,
Joe
P.S. Fester I got a chuckle from your response, but I am actually thousands of miles away from there.
My backyard backs up on this Hillsborough River;
http://images.google.ca/images?q=hillsborough+river&oe=utf-8&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&client=firefox-a&um=1&ie=UTF-8&ei=gsIXS6rwNYSMswO4w-GgDg&sa=X&oi=image_result_group&ct=title&resnum=4&ved=0CBwQsAQwAw
Hello Joe,
I don't think you should stop participating on the forum. Or Beloved.
You two, and others who have stopped participating, help others with your understanding of the scriptures and Ray's teachings. If it really is about edifying one another, no accusation or allegation will stick.
And one more note (and this is not meant to offend you, honest): I don't get it when someone just stops participating. I really don't...does a person just stop having joy when discussing the Word? Do we get tired of hearing our brother and sister's prayer request and how God moves in their life? Do we not get joy when helping one's understanding of the scriptures and how awesome the plan & wisdom of God is?
Helping one another should be the driving force in our participation here, how could we just stop doing that for each other? Christ was very clear in His words:
Matt 20:25-28 Jesus called them unto him, and said, Ye know that the princes of the Gentiles exercise dominion over them, and they that are great exercise authority upon them. But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister; And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant: Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many.
Luke 22:32 I [Jesus] have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not: and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren.
Sorry for the rant but I still feel that you and others should continue to participate. Is it really worth it to stop?
Marques
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Joe, I miss you alot. I have always gained lots from your post. You , were so kind to me when I first joined and really needed some guidance. Even , in personal messages we shared I could tell how loving and kind person you were. I have learned alot off of others who have been on here for a long time and even some from youngers members who seem to be leap and bounds over my understanding.
In His Love,
Marlene
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Joe you know that Marques is right, and the scriptures prove it as well as the ones that miss you, and Beloved. We love you, and would be at a great loss of the body if you stop participating. I think you know that you can't go away, nor silence yourself of the gift that you have.
Peace
Roy
Living to die, dieing to live, wanting to walk on water.
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Hi Joe
Here is a dedication to you Joe when you were moderator,as well as all the moderators who are doing a very good work.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8I7Wk14VWK4
Walt.
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walt,
thanks so much for posting the youtube video. inspiring. :)
marques,
i agree with absolutely everything you said to joe. :)
joe,
you know i miss you, and your insights, and your humor. :) :)
we are all students, and yes, sometimes we might even be a teacher to someone else. all inspired and purposed by our Creator. all...
claudia
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Good morning Brothers and Sisters,
Thanks again for your kind words, advice and for the you-tubes, all these things tug at my heart and deepen my affection for you all.
If only it was as simple as me taking some shots from detractors, that is not even close to what I am struggling with but in good conscious I cannot make this a public issue.
Going back through the years there were some rather caustic arrows fired at a few of us connected to Bible Truths, the accusations were worse than what I mentioned earlier in this thread, there were a few waves of this activity that we experienced but it really did not bother me very much as Craig and I weathered the storm together bringing us even closer as fellow moderators and more importantly as friends. I only mention this to illustrate that my problem/dilemma is not a case of acute thin skin or hurt feelings.
This situation is quite different and I still feel the need to wait on the Lord to provide answers, believe me I am not being purposely cryptic or starring in my own low budget cheesy mystery drama but sincerely seeking answers to questions troubling my heart and spirit. Folks, there is no desire on my part to be the eye in a storm of controversy, that is why I have stayed silent for the most part, in silence there is no need to attempt to take back words that once are out there can never really be removed or completely forgotten, at least by our own power.
So again I must thank you all from the bottom of my heart and I promise to be in touch.
My love and respect to you all,
Joe
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Ecclesiastes 3
A Time for Everything
1 There is a time for everything,
and a season for every activity under heaven:
2 a time to be born and a time to die,
a time to plant and a time to uproot,
3 a time to kill and a time to heal,
a time to tear down and a time to build,
4 a time to weep and a time to laugh,
a time to mourn and a time to dance,
5 a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them,
a time to embrace and a time to refrain,
6 a time to search and a time to give up,
a time to keep and a time to throw away,
7 a time to tear and a time to mend,
a time to be silent and a time to speak,
8 a time to love and a time to hate,
a time for war and a time for peace.
However, Joe, having said this, I still miss your input, wisdom, gentleness, kindness, and thoughtfulness; you were and still are such a good communicator!
Angie
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That's just what I'm talking about, Joe..gentle wisdom..standing with you in prayer..
Kathy :-*
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Hi Joe, praying God will give you the answers. Just remember, and you probably already know this, God is in complete control and the cause of all, nothing is happening that shouldn't be happening, whether it be good or bad. If God is the cause of all then everything is for our ultimate good.
God knows your heart and motives better than anyone else, prefer His judgment over anyone else. Not to preach, or to puff myself up, but I sincerely hope these verses will help and encourage you.
Psa 139:23 Search me out, O El, and know my heart; Test me, and know my disquieting thoughts."
Psa 139:24 See if a grievous way is in me, And guide me in the way eonian. Permanent"
1Co 3:12 Now if any man builds on the foundation with gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, straw,
1Co 3:13 each man's work will become evident; for the day will show it because it is to be revealed with fire, and the fire itself will test the quality of each man's work.
1Co 3:14 If any man's work which he has built on it remains, he will receive a reward.
1Co 3:15 If any man's work is burned up, he will suffer loss; but he himself will be saved, yet so as through fire.
Stay humble bro, be forgiving and merciful toward others for whatever wrong you perceived has been done to you, let Love guide you, Love will not fail, LOVE, expecting nothing back in return. Deny self (the beast) in this tough time. Praying for your understanding, strength and endurance to overcome, and that the Lord will give you answers. You've been given a lot of encouragement from many here, because we care.
Faith, Hope and LOVE be multiplied to you Joe and all the brothers and sisters in Christ
George D.
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Thanks Angie, Kathy and George,
You are all very kind.
Amazing Angie! Ecclesiastes has been my dear companion lately, an incredible book I find so relevant to my present state of mind as well as all the chaotic (as it appears because we know Who is in control) events running rampant in the world.
Kathy you are a real friend to everyone here, that I am sure is greatly appreciated by all (it certainly is by me).
George, thank you for your input and the verses you took the time to quote, much to reflect on for sure.
Peace,
Joe
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OMG, Joe, didn't realize you were gone since I haven't been on here for awhile. I will miss you. You guys are beautiful and I can't even imagine any one taking a shot at you. Take heart and keep the faith and remember our love for you. Judy
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Hi Joe,
I want to let you know that you have always been and huge source of encouragement for me and have also supplied many thought provoking lessons on this forum.
Keep praying and the Lord will guide you to where he wants you.
Thank you
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Joe,
Ecclesiastes has been of such great comfort to me and a book in the bible that I can certainly relate to.
Your comments to posts and questions as well as your "bio" were one of the reasons I decided to join the forum... YOU ARE INDEED MAKING A DIFFERENCE!
Sincerely,
Angie
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OMG, Joe, didn't realize you were gone since I haven't been on here for awhile. I will miss you. You guys are beautiful and I can't even imagine any one taking a shot at you. Take heart and keep the faith and remember our love for you. Judy
Hi Judy,
Very nice to hear from you, as you well know "taking shots" from others is not something that should unduly surprise anyone, as a matter of fact when it comes from people we know do not especially have our best interests at heart or who appear to be just plain mean spirited it is usually fairly easy to brush it off and from then on at first attempt to be an example of patience and understanding not returning fire with fire, if that proves to be a failure then we try to avoid too much interaction with them. On the other hand when it comes from people you have had a great amount of respect for or you consider to be good friends (or family) and they refuse to reason together then it takes on a whole new dimension. You tend to question your own motivations, your own conduct and your own manner of communication. This actually could be a good thing if we learn from it and react positively but often it will take some time to sort through before we realize what the actual lesson might be.
Thank you for your kind message.
Peace,
Joe
Hi Joe,
I want to let you know that you have always been and huge source of encouragement for me and have also supplied many thought provoking lessons on this forum.
Keep praying and the Lord will guide you to where he wants you.
Thank you
Thank you Shammie!
You have no idea how much I appreciate the words you wrote as I have only sought to do just that, be thought provoking, to dig together in the field of treasure that is His Word. It is really humbling yet exhilarating to hear that some of the thoughts and experiences I have shared had a positive impact on my brethren here.
I have faith that all of our experiences have a purpose in His plan for our ultimate good.
Peace to you,
Joe
Joe,
Ecclesiastes has been of such great comfort to me and a book in the bible that I can certainly relate to.
Your comments to posts and questions as well as your "bio" were one of the reasons I decided to join the forum... YOU ARE INDEED MAKING A DIFFERENCE!
Sincerely,
Angie
Hello Angie,
Just as Solomon wrote in Ecclesiastes about a "time and a season" this has been a sort of pattern in my own walk in regard to certain books of scripture, in the times of different seasons through this journey I have found Job, Solomon, Ezekiel, Jonah and Zechariah (to name but a few) to be especially relevant to my particular place along the path set before me, it is an overwhelming experience to see these words jump off the page and speak directly to my heart. I am sure you know exactly what I mean. ;)
I am glad that in some way I was used as a conduit to inspire you to join the Forum, as you see and I am sure experienced there are many caring and loving people here.
Peace, and thank you again!
Joe
Come back Joe, your words of wisdom are needed.
Matt :)
Hi Matt,
Hey Brother I haven't gone anywhere I just haven't been the incessant windbag I have demonstrated to be in the past! ;D
There are some lessons for me to learn and this predicament has caused me to be a bit more introspective (free will anyone?). I certainly would not have chosen to deal with this situation but here it is and I am forced to meditate and pray if indeed I want to learn and grow from it.
Thank you for your very kind words.
Peace,
Joe
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I can't even imagine any one taking a shot at you.
Hi Judy,
as you well know "taking shots" from others is not something that should unduly surprise anyone,
when it comes from people we know do not especially have our best interests at heart...
...On the other hand when it comes from people you have had a great amount of respect for or you consider to be good friends (or family) and they refuse to reason together then it takes on a whole new dimension.
quote author=Shammie link=topic=10965.msg94959#msg94959 date=126029130
I want to let you know that you have always been and huge source of encouragement for me and have also supplied many thought provoking lessons on this forum.
...I have only sought to do just that, be thought provoking, to dig together in the field of treasure that is His Word. It is really humbling yet exhilarating to hear that some of the thoughts and experiences I have shared had a positive impact on my brethren here.
I have faith that all of our experiences have a purpose in His plan for our ultimate good.
Ecclesiastes has been of such great comfort to me and a book in the bible that I can certainly relate to.
Hello Angie,
...in the times of different seasons through this journey I have found Job, Solomon, Ezekiel, Jonah and Zechariah (to name but a few) to be especially relevant to my particular place along the path set before me, it is an overwhelming experience to see these words jump off the page and speak directly to my heart....
I am glad that in some way I was used as a conduit to inspire you to join the Forum, as you see and I am sure experienced there are many caring and loving people here.
Come back Joe, your words of wisdom are needed.
Hi Matt,
I haven't gone anywhere I just haven't been the incessant windbag I have demonstrated to be in the past! ;D
There are some lessons for me to learn and this predicament has caused me to be a bit more introspective (free will anyone?). I certainly would not have chosen to deal with this situation but here it is and I am forced to meditate and pray if indeed I want to learn and grow from it.
hey joe,
all the statements i posted in bold, either about you or from you, are testimony that many miss your posts, and look forward to hearing from you again. we all can bear each other up, no matter where we are on our personal, particular journeys. so, i pray that you will learn the lessons our Father is causing you to face, and that you will soon be back to encourage, exhort, and yes, even rebuke when we need it.
love in Christ to you joe,
claudia
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Hi Claudia,
You once again did what you do so well, give comfort and encouragement, your thoughts and words are greatly appreciated!
The lesson to this riddle I have experienced may be coming into focus... Remember the topic I started a while back? Forum Blues? Well I had postulated on why some folks suddenly and abruptly leave the Forum, I think I was being a bit presumptuous even pompous in some of the things I stated. My understanding was once again lacking as I did not know as much as I presumed I did.
I will say when I was confronted with this situation about about the teaching and/or seeking to be some sort of "leader" my initial reaction was to leave, no long drawn out "hello, I must be going" farewell thread but just disappearing. It came to mind how I lamented that decision by others, some of whom I really enjoyed fellowship with and not wanting to go down that road I waited on the Lord to show me why this could be happening, what was the real answer to the parable/riddle confounding me?
In a word. Empathy.
Empathy toward those that may have been the recipient of an accusation, a cross word, a misunderstanding or were presumed to have had motives that they really did not have. Perhaps this was what the purpose of my own experience was, the Lord grabbing me by the shoulders and telling me to be more empathetic to other people's human frailties or inability to perfectly communicate He knows better than I of my own shortcomings. He is in control, He is watching over and guiding them and us.
In a nutshell I do not know all the reasons why some folks go away suddenly, things that happen behind the scenes without me knowing the reason, well who am I, why do I have to be in the loop? I have realized and even stated here that ultimately this whole earthly experience is to draw us into a One on one walk with our Creator.
God has it covered and that is plenty good enough. I will continue to miss many of them but take comfort in the knowledge they are in very capable hands.
Peace to you Sister,
Joe
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Wow Joe, thank God He has kept you humble. One of my fears is to be told by the brothers and sisters here that I may be wrong, or I may be teaching, but I hope if that day comes I can handle it like you. You are a great example for us, showing us how to swallow our pride and humble ourselves with a willingness to learn from it rather than just disappear.
No one has all the answers, we all make mistakes, EVERYONE stumbles and falls along the straight and narrow path once in a while, but a man or woman made righteous by God will stand again.
Peace, G.Driggs
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Joe, this is so much of what makes you the unique person you are. I'm very thankful that you did NOT just leave! That is so painful to me when people leave without a word...If you know what is going on in a person's life it's one thing, but to see that someone has left and you have no way of knowing the why..very sad..You're right that God has them all in His hands! Thank you for that reminder..Still praying for you...and glad that the prayers are being answered! :)
Kathy :-*
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What ever Joe does, or where ever he goes; I believe that he is being spiritually led.
Roy
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Wow Joe, thank God He has kept you humble. One of my fears is to be told by the brothers and sisters here that I may be wrong, or I may be teaching, but I hope if that day comes I can handle it like you. You are a great example for us, showing us how to swallow our pride and humble ourselves with a willingness to learn from it rather than just disappear.
No one has all the answers, we all make mistakes, EVERYONE stumbles and falls along the straight and narrow path once in a while, but a man or woman made righteous by God will stand again.
Peace, G.Driggs
Hi George,
You know there are times when we can see a situation for what it is, an obvious lesson to be learned. For instance when we are impatient or show a hair trigger temper with family, friends or even strangers as we go through our day to day experiences we often realize it quickly and hopefully make amends as soon as possible. Some things might take a bit longer such as a perceived slight we received from someone and we harbor a resentment that usually does us more harm (a bitter spirit) than the person who has instigated (whether real or imagined) the dispute.
Then there are other struggles that are not easily discerned, the questioning within ourselves as to why this might be happening to us or why are we cornered into this or that predicament that at times might even inspire us to question whether or not God is really leading us or has left us to fend for ourselves. I believe this last example actually positions us to forge an even closer relationship with our God/Creator, but it takes time and diligence. We must question Him, plead, wrestle, strive and pray for insight and for His Wisdom.
These more difficult trials often do not end or become clear to us on our timetable expectations, they come at a time that He deems to be most beneficial for our growth and perhaps even for the spiritual growth of those who are around us.
Thank you for your comments and for caring Brother.
Peace,
Joe
Joe, this is so much of what makes you the unique person you are. I'm very thankful that you did NOT just leave! That is so painful to me when people leave without a word...If you know what is going on in a person's life it's one thing, but to see that someone has left and you have no way of knowing the why..very sad..You're right that God has them all in His hands! Thank you for that reminder..Still praying for you...and glad that the prayers are being answered! :)
Kathy :-*
Hello there Kathy,
You are very kind and caring but that is what makes you so unique! ;)
There are many who I miss hearing from, it would be comforting for us to know how they are doing but we do know that wherever they are and whatever predicament or state of mind they are in they are not alone. The One who has all of our best interests (even the ones we are not yet aware of) in mind is right there with them.
I also would love to see MG, Beloved, Matthew, Jacobs Ladder, Iris, Kweli, and so many others (please forgive me for omitting anyone) drop a line or two our way, lacking that I am certain they are in the loving hands of our God whether we (or even they) are aware of it or not.
Peace,
Joe
What ever Joe does, or where ever he goes; I believe that he is being spiritually led.
Roy
We all are Brother,
Thank you for being the conduit that has caused me to deal with my dilemma publicly, I needed to do this but could not do it without some prodding. Perhaps we are speaking to and helping others who are reading this as guests or members who are looking and not responding, just taking it in to consider or meditate on.
You have helped me through a difficult situation more than you probably realize.
Peace,
Joe
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Hello Brothers and Sisters,
I wanted to take this opportunity thank you all again for your thoughts and for your concern. This is probably the time to let this thread fade away as I believe we have taken it as far as we can without becoming redundant, repetitive or boring.
This has been a real blessing for me, not just hearing so many kind words but also for the counsel I have received and having to address a matter that I would have preferred not to deal with, we all have such things (and infinitely worse) put before us, I know this first hand. The loss, suffering and/or sickness of a loved one, debilitating disease some of us live with are a much bigger trial than evaluating what a few folks might think of us.
When I am past my present indecision and am able to write without constantly looking over my own shoulder, without naval gazing over how I might be perceived and just communicate straight from the heart I will resume posting and discussing topics that interest me or have caught my attention. I will close by saying once again, I am not a teacher, I do not seek the praise of men, I have nowhere (nor a desire) to lead anyone anywhere. I am a student only and am quite content to remain in that status.
His Peace and Wisdom to you all,
Joe
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Not before I let you know I love you like a brother and your heart and compassion has meant everything to me on this forum. Thank you for being here and helping me through.
I know your heart.
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Hi M.G.
Dear Sister I must thank you for your kind and generous words as well as for the inspiration & wisdom you have provided to me and the other members through the years. You have shared some incredible experiences, trials and heartache yet you still display your faith and encourage others who are experiencing a difficult period in their own journey.
Your message really made my day.
His Peace and Love to you,
Joe