Understanding U.S. Newspapers and Their Readers

By Terry Orr

(Sharing another email)

1. The Wall Street Journal is read by the people who run the country.
2. The Washington Post is read by people who think they run the country.
3. The New York Times is read by people who think they should run the country, and who are very good at crossword puzzles.
4. USA Today is read by people who think they ought to run the country but don't really understand The New York Times.
5. The Los Angeles Times is read by people who wouldn't mind running the country, if they could find the time and if they didn't have to leave Southern California to do it.
6. The Boston Globe is read by people whose parents used to run the country and did a poor job of it.
7. The New York Daily News is read by people who aren't too sure who's running the country and don't really care as long as they can get a seat on the train.
8. The New York Post is read by people who don't care who is running the country as long as they do something really scandalous, preferably while intoxicated.
9. The Chicago Tribune is read by people that are in prison and used to run the state & would like to do so again, as would their constituents who are currently free on bail.
10. The Miami Herald is read by people who are running another country, but need the baseball scores.
11. The San Francisco Chronicle is read by people who aren't sure if there is a country or that anyone is running it; but if so, they oppose all that they stand for. There are occasional exceptions if the leaders are gay, handicapped, minority, feminist, atheist dwarfs who also happen to be illegal aliens from any other country or galaxy, provided, of course, that they are not Republicans.
12. The National Enquirer is read by people trapped in line at the grocery store.
13. The Seattle Times is read by people who have recently caught a fish and need something to wrap it in.

IT'S WHAT YOU SCATTER

I was at the corner grocery store buying some early potatoes - I noticed a small boy, delicate of bone and feature, ragged but clean, hungrily apprising a basket of  freshly picked green peas.

I paid for my potatoes but was also drawn to the display of fresh green peas. I am a pushover for creamed peas and new potatoes.

Pondering the peas, I couldn’t help overhearing the conversation between Mr. Miller (the store owner) and the ragged boy next to me.

'Hello Barry, how are you today?'

'H'lo, Mr. Miller. Fine, thank ya. Jus' admirin' them peas. They sure look good'

'They are good, Barry. How's your  Ma?'

'Fine.  Gittin' stronger alla' time.'

'Good. Anything I can help you with?'

'No, Sir. Jus' admirin' them peas.'

'Would you like to take some home?' asked Mr. Miller.

'No, Sir. Got nuthin' to pay for ‘em with.'

'Well, what have you to trade me for some of those peas?'

'All I got's my prize marble here.'

'Is that right? Let me see it', said Miller.

'Here 'tis. She's a dandy.'

‘I can see that. Hmm mmm, only thing is this one is blue and I sort of go for red.  Do you have a red one like this at home?' the store owner asked.

'Not zackley but almost.'

'Tell you what. Take this sack of peas home with you and next trip this way let me look at that red marble’. Mr. Miller told the boy.

'Sure will. Thanks Mr. Miller.'

Mrs. Miller, who had been standing nearby, came over to help me.

With a smile she said, 'There are two other boys like him in our community; all three are in very poor circumstances.  Jim just loves to bargain with them for peas, apples, tomatoes, or whatever.

When they come back with their red marbles, and they always do, he decides he doesn't like red after all and he sends them home with a bag of produce for a green marble or an orange one, when they come on their next trip  to the store.'

I left the store smiling to myself, impressed with this man. A short time later I moved to Colorado, but I never forgot the story of this man, the boys, and their bartering for marbles.

Several years went by, each more rapid than the previous one. Just recently I had  occasion to visit some old friends in that Idaho community and while I was there  learned that Mr. Miller had died. They were having his visitation that evening and knowing my friends wanted to go, I agreed to accompany them. Upon arrival at the mortuary we fell into line to meet the relatives of the deceased and to  offer whatever words of comfort we could.

Ahead of us in line were three young men. One was in an army uniform and the other two wore nice haircuts, dark suits and white shirts...all very professional looking. They approached Mrs. Miller, standing composed and smiling by her husband's casket.

Each of the young men hugged her, kissed her on the cheek, spoke briefly with her and moved on to the casket. Her misty light blue eyes followed them as, one by one; each young man stopped briefly and placed his own warm hand over the cold pale hand in the casket. Each left the mortuary awkwardly, wiping his eyes.

Our turn came to meet Mrs. Miller. I told her who I was and reminded her of the story from those many years ago and what she had told me about her husband's bartering for marbles. With her eyes glistening, she took my hand and led me to the casket.

'Those three young men who just left were the boys I told you about.

They just told me how they appreciated the things Jim 'traded' them. Now, at last, when Jim could not change his mind about color or size....they came to pay their  debt.'

'We've never had a great deal of the wealth of this world,’ she confided, 'but right now, Jim would consider himself the richest man in  Idaho ...'

With loving gentleness she lifted the lifeless fingers of her deceased husband. Resting underneath were three exquisitely shined red marbles.

The Moral:

We will not be remembered by our words,  but by our kind deeds. Life is not measured by the breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath.

Today I wish you a day of ordinary miracles.....

An unexpected phone call from an old friend...... Green traffic lights when you drive......

The fastest line at the grocery store....

Your keys found right where you left them.

Send this to the people you'll never forget. I just did......

If you don’t send it to anyone, it means you are in way too much of a hurry to even notice the ordinary miracles when they occur.

IT'S NOT WHAT YOU GATHER, BUT WHAT YOU SCATTER THAT TELLS WHAT KIND OF LIFE YOU HAVE LIVED!

Anxiety and Depression Awareness

By Nurse Diane

The other day we told you that it was Mental Health Awareness Month.  This week the focus is on Anxiety and Depression, two of many Mental Health disorders.  These subjects really hit home with me.  Since the death of my husband my life has been filled with anxiety and depression:  Anxiety over the legal issues and depression over my loss of him.  With all the turmoil surrounding his death, I have not even had a chance to stop and grieve.  I recently went to an after hours clinic for a sore on my leg that wouldn't heal.  Feeling I was in need of an antibiotic, I went to be examined.  During the course of my examination I discovered that my blood pressure was unusually high, 225/110.  This discovery really frightened me and I followed up with a complete physical exam with my doctor.  He prescribed some blood pressure medication along with some antidepressant.   I immediately began taking the blood pressure meds and I also purchased some garlic pills and fish oil pills to help lower it.  I was wary about the anti depressant, I have some court cases that I have to attend, and I wanted to be on top of my game.  However, one of the symptoms of anxiety and depression is elevated blood pressure.

Some other symptoms include:

Low or irritable mood most of the time

A loss of pleasure in usual activities

Trouble sleeping or sleeping too much

A big change in appetite, often with weight gain or loss

Tiredness and lack of energy

Feelings of worthlessness, self-hate, and guilt

Difficulty concentrating

Slow or fast movements

Lack of activity and avoiding usual activities

Feeling hopeless or helpless

Repeated thoughts of death or suicide

Symptoms of stress and anxiety include:

A faster heart rate

Skipped heartbeats

Rapid breathing

Sweating

Trembling

Dizziness

Other symptoms include:

Loose stools

Frequent need to pee

Dry mouth

Problems swallowing

Many things can cause you to have these disorders, some include:

Alcohol or drug abuse

Medical conditions and treatments, such as:

Certain types of cancer

Long-term pain

Sleeping problems

Steroid medications

Underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism)

Stressful life events, such as:

Abuse or neglect

Breaking up with a boyfriend or girlfriend

Certain types of cancer

Death of a relative or friend

Divorce, including a parent's divorce

Failing a class

Illness in the family

Job loss

Long-term pain

Social isolation (common cause of depression in the elderly)

Ways to treat depression include first visiting your doctor, letting him/her know your symptoms and things that have been going on in your life. Things you can do at home include:

Get enough sleep.

Follow a healthy, nutritious diet.

Exercise regularly.

Avoid alcohol, marijuana, and other recreational drugs.

Get involved in activities that make you happy.

Spend time with family and friends.

If you are a religious or spiritual person, talk to a clergy member or spiritual advisor.

Consider meditation, tai chi, or other relaxation methods.

Add omega-3 fatty acids to your diet. You can get them from over-the-counter supplements or by eating fish such as tuna, salmon, or mackerel

During National Anxiety and Depression Awareness week, take some time to examine your own life.  If you notice any of these symptoms, or feel you need some help, call your doctor, family or friend, talk things over and see what they advise.  Take time for yourself, drink some wine or eat chocolate, and find ways to relax and distress.  For more information check this site http://www.lifebridgeblogs.org/

(All images from google) 

The Meaning of the Flag-Draped Coffin

By Terry Orr

(Another wonderful email to share)

What a wonderful lesson this was for me. I do not recall ever being taught this in school. The Meaning of the Flag-Draped Coffin" All Americans should be given this lesson. Those who think that America is an arrogant nation should really reconsider that thought. Our founding fathers used GOD's word and teachings to establish our Great Nation and I think it's high time Americans get re-educated about this Nation's history. Pass it along and be proud of the country we live in, and even more proud of those who serve to protect our 'GOD-GIVEN' rights and freedoms. I hope you take the time to read this ... To understand what the flag draped coffin really means ... Here is how to understand the flag that laid upon it and is surrendered to so many widows and widowers:

Do you know that at military funerals, the 21-gun salute stands for the sum of the numbers in the year 1776?

 Have you ever noticed that the honor guard pays meticulous attention to correctly folding the United States of America Flag 13 times? You probably thought it was to symbolize the original 13 colonies, but we learn something new every day!

The 1st fold of the flag is a symbol of life.

The 2nd fold is a symbol of the belief in eternal life.

The 3rd fold is made in honor and remembrance of the veterans departing the ranks who gave a portion of their lives for the defense of the country to attain peace throughout the world. 

The 4th fold represents the weaker nature, for as American citizens trusting in God, it is to Him we turn in times of peace as well as in time of war for His divine guidance.

The 5th fold is a tribute to the country, for in the words of Stephen Decatur, 'Our Country, in dealing with other countries, may she always be right; but it is still our country, right or wrong.'

The 6th fold is for where people's hearts lie. It is with their heart that they pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, and the Republic for which it stands, one Nation under God, indivisible, with Liberty and Justice for all.

The 7th fold is a tribute to its Armed Forces, for it is through the Armed Forces that they protect their country and their flag against all her enemies, whether they be found within or without the boundaries of their republic.

The 8th fold is a tribute to the one who entered into the valley of the shadow of death, that we might see the light of day. 

The 9th fold is a tribute to womanhood, and Mothers. For it has been through their faith, their love, loyalty and devotion that the character of the men and women who have made this country great has been molded. 

The 10th fold is a tribute to the father, for he, too, has given his sons and daughters for the defense of their country since they were first born. 

The 11th fold represents the lower portion of the seal of King David and King Solomon and glorifies in the Hebrews eyes, the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.

The 12th fold represents an emblem of eternity and glorifies, in the Christians eyes, God the Father, the Son and Holy Spirit.

The 13th fold, or when the flag is completely folded, the stars are uppermost reminding them of their Nations motto, 'In God We Trust.'

After the flag is completely folded and tucked in, it takes on the appearance of a cocked hat, ever reminding us of the soldiers who served under General George Washington, and the Sailors and Marines who served under Captain John Paul Jones, who were followed by their comrades and shipmates in the Armed Forces of the United States, preserving for them the rights, privileges and freedoms they enjoy today.

There are some traditions and ways of doing things that have deep meaning. In the future, you'll see flags folded and now you will know why.

Share this with the children you love and all others who love what is referred to as the symbol of ' Liberty and Freedom.'

MAYBE THE SUPREME COURT SHOULD READ THIS EXPLANATION BEFORE THEY RENDER THEIR DECISION ON THE PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE. FORWARD IT; MAYBE SOMEONE WITH THE NECESSARY POWER, OR POLITICAL AND FINANCIAL INFLUENCE, WILL GET IT TO THEM.IN THE MEANTIME, MAY GOD PROTECT US ALWAYS.ONE NATION, UNDER GOD, WITH LIBERTY AND JUSTICE FOR ALL.

If you agree, Pass it along to others

If not, hit delete

Our Soldiers have preserved your right to make this choice!

Tolerance Week 2012

(Google Image) 

By Diane Forrest

If you have ever seen a small child playing with a pet, then you will understand the definition of tolerance.  I was watching as my neighbor's small child was playing with their family dog, pulling on its ears, playing dress up with it.  The poor dog just laid there, looking bored and disinterest.  Had I been the pup...I would have most assuredly growled at the irritating actions.

(Google Image) 

A few months ago my father drew me a graph; I taped it on my desk as a reminder.  The graph shows a proportion to the age, and how much you let bother you.  In other words, the older he gets, the less he lets things bother him.  It is simply not healthy or worth it to worry about how others affect him.  He has just decided to remain calm cool and collected.   He learned long ago, that the more he gets worked up over some things, the less beneficial it is for him.  Things or people will not change just because he wants it to happen.

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This world is made up of many different people, with different backgrounds, religions, races and nationalities. My cousin has spent the better part of his 50 something years in Texas.  Texans are not known for their tolerance, especially when it pertains to lawbreakers.  Last week he celebrated his first anniversary with his bride, a native of Pakistan.  I couldn’t imagine a more diverse relationship.  I talked with him before they were married, and asked him how they made it work with such obvious differences in their upbringings.  He explained to me, that even with the differences in religion and politics and language, that they still had the same values.

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People are just people.  They love their families, their friends, and for the most part know the difference between right and wrong, and try to do their best to differentiate between them.  I have a friend, who is as opposite from me as I could imagine.  He is Italian, Catholic, Democrat and I am English, Baptist and Republican.  He has his opinions that are pretty much set in stone, and I have mine.  Instead of arguing and disagreeing over them, we listen to each other’s views, and respect the different opinions.  While we may secretly wish to change their mind, we don’t have to agree, but we tolerate their views.

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This week is Tolerance week.  I can't think of a better way to begin the holiday season than to practice tolerance, peace and good will to your fellow man.  As I was reading about this day, I was looking at different ways to participate in this week.  I read that one teacher planned to wear a different pair of shoes, that were not her own.  Her plan was to "Walk in someone else's shoes" to try to experience what they may be feeling.   Acceptance & Inclusiveness Member Sylvia Sheperd stated that "We all care about each other and we want to do what we can to show that. When students have support, they do better and we're trying to offer support."  Showing tolerance doesn’t mean that you have to agree with someone else, just respect their right to voice their opinion, just as you have the right to voice yours.

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So this week, practice a little tolerance toward your neighbor, and who knows, it might just keep going on to another week, and then a month until you tolerate others all the time and make your little piece of the world a better place.

Health literacy Month

“2012 – Be a Health Literacy Hero”

By Terry Orr

(Google Image)

BP, Glucose, A1C, …on and on and on – and what the heck do they all mean?  Really, if you’re not medically inclined – these are just gibberish without meaning – except when they really affect your life.

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According to AARP, nine out of ten American adults have some problems with health literacy.  Well folks, I clearly fall into one of the nine – my wife and Diane are both nurses – and this blog site writes about health-related topics nearly daily.  Yikes!

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What is Health Literacy

According to the US Department of Health and Human Services – health literacy as the degree to which individuals have the capacity to obtain, process, and understand basic health information and services needed to make appropriate decisions.

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Helen Osborne decided back in 1999 to start a grassroots initiative to raise awareness about the need for understanding health communication.  This year’s theme is Be a Health Literacy Hero – committing to actions you can, and will, take to make long-lasting difference. She offers these suggestions: Spread the word; Partner with others; and Make a business case about why health literacy matters.

A few things that came to mind while eating lunch today were:

• Health word of the day;
• More Health-related materials taught in K-12;
• Expand current Health-related awareness days, weeks and months;
• Encourage main-stream Media to take initiative to provide more (public service) information on health-related 30-60 second spots during peak viewing;
• Encourage drug manufactures to invest in educating the public; and
• Add health literacy into your topic of conversation during your family meals.

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Got and ideas?  If so, please share them with us – we would truly love to read them and pass them along.  Thanks!

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Something we all need to do better is to understand our diagnosis when departing from our doctor’s appointment.  Do we have the information we need to address the health issue?  The National Patient Safety Foundation encourages patients to “Ask Me 3” questions each time they meet with their health care provider:

1. What is my main problem?
2. What do I need to do?
3. Why is it important for me to do this?

They make a lot of sense when you take a moment to think about them.

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References and Links:

http://www.healthliteracy.com/tips.asp

http://www.healthliteracymonth.org/

http://blogs.cdc.gov/healthliteracy/2012/10/01/kicking-off-health-literacy-month/

http://nnlm.gov/outreach/consumer/hlthlit.html

http://www.chcs.org/usr_doc/Health_Literacy_Fact_Sheets.pdf