Ever read the paper, then watch the local news, and the national news back to back? There are the local robberies, stabbings, shootings, and political wrangling. Then we hear about gas prices rising and falling like a yo yo. The national news is full of international crisis like the U. S. planning an attack on Syria or the bombings and deaths in Iraq. Then we hear about shark attacks, wildfires burning, and murder trials. Today, we heard about Ariel Castro, the man who kidnapped three women in Ohio, hanged himself in jail. We are faced with all of this based on the public's right to know and freedom of the press. Freedom of the press is a sacred and civil right. Yet, all of the information about "scandals" in the government over the years leads us to believe that we don't know the truth and nothing but the truth about what happens in our government. All of this cynicism we have developed gives us a deaf ear when it comes to news or it raises our blood pressure.
In the midst of all the bad news, we need some good news. One would think that capturing the largest alligator of 727 pounds in Mississippi is good news so it was plastered on the local news and national news on television and in our local paper. Then there is Diane Nyad who tried five times to swim from Cuba to Key West, FL and her fifth time was the charm. She started when she was 28 and now at 64, she made it. Way to go Diane!
This month we are bombarded with advertisements for the new fall television season as popular old shows return and new shows begin. What we really should be concerned about is the number of commercials we have to endure to see 15 minutes of a program. Oh well, there is always Netflix that seldom adds new movies and what they do add seems to be B and C grade movies. Yes, you guessed it, I am cynical. Is it to much to ask for a television show that makes me feel good when I am finished watching it?
Well, as old men go, I have decided that good news is all around us even on the days when bad news fills the printed page, the local news broadcast, and the national news broadcast. Turn off the television. Walk outside. Feel the warmth of the sun and the breeze blowing in the early morning. It is the beginning of a new day. This is a day the Lord has made and I will rejoice and be glad in it. Instead of letting the bad news fill your mind, turn on some music. Listen to the sounds of God's gift to those who compose and those who play the music that speaks to the soul. Read the Bible and allow God's Spirit to speak. Worship the Lord God who is good, glorious, gracious, and great for God's unfailing love. The time you spend doing this will fill you spirit with good news.
Think about it.
Roy
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