Merry Christmas

It is Christmas day, one of the few times of year most stores are closed and churches have an influx of people. This is also the day that children anticipate and look forward to opening gifts. Unfortunately, the real significance of this celebration has become obscure.

All throughout the Old Testament, we read foreshadows and prophecies of a coming Messiah. Reading the gospels, especially early chapters of Matthew and Luke, we see the birth of Jesus fulfilled everything that was foretold. He then lived, died, and rose again so that we may have the free gift of salvation. (Romans 6:23)

Receiving gifts at Christmas can be fun, but no toys, books, clothes, or even model trains, can come close to what we have been given in Christ. Objects we receive eventually wear down, break, or become less interesting over time. The birth of our Savior has no expiration date and has eternal blessings that will never fade.

Just like packages under a tree, God's gift doesn't require any amount of works or payment to be received. If we worked or paid for something; it is an obligation, not a gift. We cannot work to cover our sins and attempt pay off our sin debt. God gave us what we could never get on our own as the ultimate gift.

Stores start offering Christmas sales, and decorations, almost in mid-summer. We forget that this day is not about what we can receive, but what we were given 2,000 years ago. All who repent of their sins (lying, theft, adultery, blaspheming, etc.) and trust in Christ alone for salvation have received His ultimate gift.

As we go throughout the year ahead, let us not forget what has been given to us. It isn't just for one day either, but for eternity. Lights and decorations may not be up, but we can celebrate this Christmas gift every day and tell others how to receive it as well. Merry Christmas!

It's Going Around

In Genesis 1, God declared everything as very good at the end of creation week. Their was no death, disease, disabilities, or disasters. Unfortunately, the entrance of sin brought the curse on all of creation and we are now living in a fallen world that includes all these problems. This week, I've heard about a few different illnesses going around that have affected several people.

Yesterday, my mom's family was scheduled to get together for our Christmas party. Mom had prepared food to bring and we were looking forward to seeing more of our family again. However, a few phone calls Friday evening postponed the party for a few months due to some families not feeling well and precaution for others. My dad's mother was also planning to join us for lunch today, but she has something going on as well and also canceled.

Therefore, just my parents and I have the weekend together and a large grape dish that was intended for 20 people or more. It's good that we all like grapes, but we may be tired of them after multiple servings per day for several days. However, it's better than food going to waste and throwing it out.

Locally, I have heard of schools closing due to staff shortages or most of the student body being sick. I talked with a couple friends on Friday from other states and it sounds like they are having the same experiences.

With everyone quarantined for about a year, immune systems didn't have opportunity to get exposed to much and became weaker. Constantly cleaning everything also increased this and contributed to decreased immune exposure. Personally, I expected something like this to come, but it can also just be a strong strain of the flu.

Any type of problem should make us look to God more and His free gift of salvation. No matter what we suffer in this world, it's nothing compared to the eternal punishment in hell. They also help us to look forward to heaven and relief from earthly sorrow.

Thankfully, I have been well and just have the regular quad life challenges. This week is forecast to be extremely cold, so I will likely be staying warm inside the house and away from people.

New Neighbor

I spend most of my time in my bedroom, sitting or laying in my bed. The walls and everything around me are very familiar, as well as the sounds that come drifting down the hall. I know what the dish washer and refrigerator sound like from my perch in the west wing of the house.

My nearest neighbor in the house is the laundry room. Almost every day, except Sunday, at least one load of laundry is either washing or drying. The sound of the laundry equipment, just on the other side of the wall in front of me, is a frequent background noise that drums along as I go about my daily routine.

For well over twenty years, I have had the same washer and dryer as my neighbor. The washer has had a number of health challenges with some of its parts wearing down and increasing in noise as problems increase. However, dad has been faithful to take my neighbor out to the clinic in the garage and carefully do surgery with various hammers to replace outdated organs. Sadly, despite three procedures this year alone, my old neighbor became too ill. Dad carefully tried to get a few more cycles out of it, but Neptune was done. She had spun her last load and with a bent shaft to her drum, she was all washed up.

Last week, while I dealt with neck trouble, my new neighbor moved in next door. This neighbor has a much larger appetite than its predecessor and eats more laundry in one gulp than we had before. While the old neighbor was sounded similar to an aircraft taking off, this one has all new sounds to learn.

I think it is similar to me and doesn't always want to get going. After being fed with shirts, shorts, and more, it makes some gurgles before going silent a few seconds later. The process repeats a few times before finally starting to process the meal of cotton and synthetic. I'm getting used to the sounds, but it's taking time. Late this week, my new neighbor's partner in laundry should arrive as well. It has been getting along with the old dryer reasonably well, but mom thought it would be best to have all new neighbors of the same age and model.

Living the quad life has its perks, even when laundry facilities take on a life of their own.

Seven-Year Break

Most weeks are repeats from previous ones. However, others can result in major changes that were unexpected. This past week was one that ended up being very unexpected, and sometimes scary.

On Sunday, November 27, mom suctioned as I felt junk in my lungs. She noticed my trach button was sunk in more than normal and it was hard to remove the closure plug. When the button was changed in October, I did see it didn't stick out as far as my previous button. That night, I had my nurse setup a mirror for me to see, and it was indeed very sunk in. On Monday, I messaged my doctor and saw it had gone further in over night.

Tuesday, November 29

This was a new experience for me and not one I had heard about before. Given how quickly the button was submerging in my throat, I expected it to slip all the way down and block my airway. Sitting up, it wasn't as covered by my neck, so I increased my time upright and laid flat for shorter periods. While down, I tried to minimize movement and just watch videos. My night nurse talked about different tools he had to try to extract it if needed, but I wasn't sure. Trying not to take deep breaths, I still envisioned not being able to breathe at any time. I continued to pray and trust God's plan through it all.

My ENT finally returned my call Tuesday afternoon and I got scheduled to see him Thursday morning. For two more days, my caregivers and I played a game of moving my skin, minimizing activity and flat time, and praying I could keep breathing.

The appointment came on a cold December 1st. With the button nearly submerged in my neck, I wasn't sure how the doctor would remove it. After numbing the area, he got the closure plug out by hand and used a clamp to pry the button's outer part from my throat. With the button free from my stoma, the ENT put in my backup trach set I prepared the day before.

I had seven years and just over one month without using a trach. It was something I never expected to achieve and am thankful for the time I had. Since the switch, my body has been adjusting with my oxygen and heart rate bouncing around like a yo-yo, especially at night. I have had little energy and a fair amount of pain.

Thankfully, everything was starting to stabilize by Saturday afternoon, but I'm still doing minimal activity while flat. I had a trach full-time for over thirty years, but I'm adjusting to feeling it in my throat again and how to clear my lungs to reduce suctioning. I am hoping to return to the button again in spring, but I know the quad life can change quickly. This coming week will hopefully be calmer, but I trust in God's plan, whatever may come.

Give Thanks Always

We have now officially entered the holiday season in the U.S. With Thanksgiving a few days ago, all eyes, and stores, are geared up for Christmas and gift giving with the conclusion of New Year's Day to conclude everything. Unfortunately, the meaning of these days is being overlooked and ignored by an increasing number of people.

Early last week, I watched a video (I would link to it, but can't find it again) showing several people proclaiming they would not celebrate Thanksgiving. They gave reasoning that the day only recognized the murder of Native Americans by the Pilgrims and those entering the New World. Unfortunately, they miss the real reason of the day and season.

In 1 Thessalonians 5:18 we are told "in everything give thanks." When we truly understand how small we are compared to God's creation, we are nothing but a speck. On top of that, all of us have broken God's commands and deserve nothing but eternal punishment in hell. However, we are still showered with blessings in various forms. Even every heart beat and breath we receive is a gift from God with the next one not guaranteed.

The early settlers understood this very well. Of the original 132 that came across the Atlantic, only half survived the voyage and first winter. If it had not been for the Native Americans, it's likely few, if any, of them would have survived. The first Thanksgiving was celebrated with both the Pilgrims and Native Americans for the gifts God had provided.

Another gift, and the ultimate one, is God's Son and the forgiveness of sins that is open to all who repent and trust in Him alone. The birth of Jesus is what we celebrate in a few weeks and can give thanks every day, and hour, for what He has given.

Living the quad life isn't always easy, but I give thanks for another year I've been given and the blessings I continue to experience daily. May we always keep this in mind and in everything give thanks.

Upgraded Breathing

On November 15, 2010, I had surgery to implant my diaphragmatic pacemaker system. In the 12 years since then, I have used the system to breathe and have generally enjoyed it. However, I had to get used to infrequent checks on the system.

For more than 25 years, I was used to having both my ventilators checked for maintenance every month. With the DPS, few hospitals are even aware of the system, let alone having people to come check on them. After getting the implant in 2010, I went home with two control units, or the actual pacemaker, that makes the system function.

Around 2012, I had my settings adjusted to get a larger breath. That process meant new pacemakers were sent to me with the different stimulation settings and I sent back my existing units. Therefore, I received new controllers at that time, but haven't since.

After some communication about a wire concern in October, it was realized my pacemakers hadn't been updated for quite some time. This past week, a representative from Synapse flew from Ohio to Des Moines to meet with me. He exchanged my old controllers for new versions, discussed changes, and any problems we could work on.

It was nice to get excellent attention when needed and I like the look of the new units. They work exactly the same, but are smaller than what I've been using. Other upgrades allow me to use a regular alkaline battery instead of lithium in case supplies are hard to get. I'm hopeful I won't need to do that, but it's good the option exists. Alarms have also been changed, which will take getting used to, but it now meets some international alarm requirements.

Living the quad life means using specialized equipment that is fun to watch improve. Of course breathing independently is best, but I'm thankful God has given us this technology to help in our fallen world.

A High Start to Low End

Life in general tends to be full of roller coasters. Editing my book, most chapters end with a cliff hanger about insurance funding or something else. Some people may think it's just to make you read more, but it's all true. This week has been one of the transitions from a great start to more concerns to watch.

First, early in the week started in the low to upper 70's for highs. For mid-November, that's very unusual for Iowa, but I won't complain. Thursday started around 71 and was quite warm at lunch, but the day ended with high 20's and ice hitting my window. Now it looks like the seasonal temps will stay with highs in the 30's and lows even colder. I always know it's coming, but it's never fun to see. Weather wasn't the only change though.

On Monday, I didn't notice anything unusual when I did my morning skin check, but my caregiver said something about a rash on my leg. When I checked again in the late afternoon, I easily saw a red area on my upper right leg. Further investigation on Tuesday found a small opening in my skin where a wound had been deemed healed a year ago. It isn't big and we caught it early, which is why I check my body multiple times a day, but it is something to keep an eye on.

Second, I have started to have drainage around my trach button again. I just said it was nice not to have to deal with it, but that only lasted about a week. Thankfully, it also isn't doing bad and I have plans to start treatment again, but it's another item to watch.

Living the quad life, it is a frequent balancing game of monitoring and treating one area, but not ignoring another. This week's findings aren't unusual, but just constant reminders to trust in God for His control over everything.

Finally, I'm beginning to notice I am having trouble remembering some things, such as Bible verses I've known and typed many times over. I also haven't slept well some nights, so I attribute that as the likely cause. Last night was also long with no nurse. However, like it or not, I am getting older and should expect some changes. This week looks to be another cold one with staying inside and plenty of time to work on exercise and helping any areas that come up.

Short Exploration Visit

A couple weeks ago, my friend John came for his annual visit with his two boys. Due to having house guests all summer, it's getting harder for the three to come and hang out. Thankfully, an impromptu trip worked during a break from school.

I have fun seeing the boys grow, but annual visits mean they change rapidly. TJ in now nine and Jeremiah six-years-old. The youngsters are somewhat familiar with me, but I'm still a bit of a novelty. Jeremiah has become very talkative since last year and also more aware of his surroundings. While I was in bed, attempting to entertain him, he asked a few times about not being able to use my arms and legs. He also remembered I use a wheelchair and was curious when I would be in it.

Hearing his thoughts and inquiries is part of what I enjoy about being around kids. I gave answers that seemed to satisfy his curiosity and he soon saw me as just another adult, I think. Before lunch on Saturday, I was in my chair and we were all playing a few rounds of gas out (a game that includes flatulence). Between turns, Jeremiah had me rub his back with my mouth stick. I can't say I've thought of a stick as good for massage, but it made him happy.

Thankfully, it was also very warm for late October and our group of five guys (my dad, John and boys, and me), could stroll a few blocks down the street to a new accessible park in town. I have wanted to check out the park all summer, but thought a single 40-year-old guy showing up and looking around a children's playground would be a bit odd. I couldn't find anyone's children to barrow for an hour or two, so this was the time to look it over.

The ground surface had cement paths, but was mainly a hard compressed rubber. I'm sure it would be safe for kids to fall on, but my 500 lb chair sunk in. It felt like I was driving on waves or something that was moving and was actually fun just to drive around on and follow the boys around.

Next, dad saw a wheelchair accessible swing in one section. I only remember seeing one such swing in my life before this and I was glad to see one had been included. With the kids joining us, I rolled onto it while dad figured out how it worked. It didn't take much investigating and we were soon moving, with me sideways to the direction of motion. I soon regretted visiting after a meal and exited the ride. That was when it was noticed the swing was only meant for people ages 2-12, not three men more than three times that limit.

Unfortunately, John's wife became ill at home and our planned 42-hour visit became 23 instead. No matter the length of time, it was fun getting caught up and being with the kids again. Hopefully the next visit will be a little longer, but that could be another year away.

Watch the Squirts

I posted recently about using natural alternatives to pharmaceuticals as much as possible. However, now it feels like I'm the target of a sprinkler after this week's doctor's appointments.

First on Tuesday, I visited with my dermatologist to check on my skin sores. He was very happy to see the progress and decreased the amount of meds I need to use for treatment. I pray that my next visit this spring will see as much progress again. Following the skin check and checking out Ben's Burgers for lunch, it was time to work on my neck.

As I rolled back to the exam room, I wasn't sure what to expect. Soon, the doctor arrived and discussed the plans we already knew. With removal of my button's closure plug, I had to mouth any words to my caregiver to interpret. After a quick scope of my throat, he carefully popped out the button that has been with me for seven years. Thankfully, the anticipated painful extraction was very minimal discomfort.

Now, I sat quietly as the doctor investigated the opening in my neck to decide what to insert. Thankfully, he went with my spare button first. Unfortunately, the new device didn't fit quite right and was promptly removed to adjust spacers. Just like the previous extraction though, it wasn't very painful and the second insertion was satisfactory. Finally, with everything in place, I could speak once again. My neck was sore, but I was glad to be finished.

For follow-up, I now have to do drops of a steroid medicine around it as well as inside for a few days. Therefore, at bed time, I now do liquid medicine around my neck, in my button/lungs, and another one in my nose. It feels odd to use so much stuff for bed and morning, but it's the current part of the quad life.

It has been a few days since the button change and medicine started and I'm thankful to see excellent progress. The drainage problems have basically stopped and redness decreased drastically. Hopefully this has solved the issue and everything will go well for a long time to come. With everything going on, my friend John and his sons also visited. However, that will be the subject of an upcoming post!

Neck Trouble Continues

In October 2015, I was able to do something I never thought would be possible. After five years of using the diaphragm pacemaker and not needing a regular ventilator, I got rid of my regular trach and replaced it with a trach button. I loved the feeling of not having trach ties around my neck and the pain I was getting from the trach rubbing my throat.

It has been seven years since that change and it has gone very well. Several months after getting the button, I discovered it was very hard to remove and would likely need to be yanked out. However, I hoped that wouldn't need to happen for many years to come. Unfortunately, it looks like my time will be up this coming Tuesday.

All summer, I have had a lot of trouble with drainage coming from the button. I have been using a tissue under my shirts to try and keep them clean, otherwise I go through 2-3 shirts per day due to my neck. My doctor tried burning off granulation tissue twice with a chemical called silver nitrite and once with a laser. We also did two rounds of oral antibiotics, but none of the attempts made any lasting impact.

Therefore, he is now going to try to remove my trach button and put in a new one that I have for backup. If something doesn't go right, then my doctor will put a regular trach in to hopefully allow for healing. An added complication is that the company who made my button stopped producing them a couple years after I got mine. Therefore, I can't get any new ones and can only try what I have on hand.

The doctor gave me the option of going to an operating room to change the button, but that adds further logistical problems. Instead, I will be fully awake with full feeling for the procedure. To say the least, I'm not looking forward to this appointment. However, something needs to be done to try to stop the drainage.

I'm praying I will not need to go back to the regular trach again. Part of the problem I was having in 2015 is that it was starting to rub a hole in my throat due to being flat so much. I am still doing the flat routine and obviously do not want to have holes in my airway. I've heard of other quads that have had this rubbing and it pokes a hole in a major artery and they bleed to death in under a minute.

Such is the quad life sometimes, but I'm thankful for the years I have been able to be free of a trach. Whatever happens, I know God is in control and I will continue to look to Him in all circumstances.

Getting a Good Rub

When possible, I like to use natural remedies and avoid medication as much as possible. I'm not one to completely refuse them and deal with the consequences, but I do what I can. One aspect of the quad life where I really apply this practice is with spasticity, or muscle spasms.

The first item is one I regularly mention, going barefoot. Shedding footwear helps with reduction of stimulation to my body and also has many health benefits for my feet. Second, I do passive range of motion (PROM) four times a day and the FES bike as much as possible. Both of these help keep my joints loose, improve circulation, muscle mass, and have recently allowed me to further reduce anti-spasm meds I take.

This has been my primary regimen for decades. However, I heard about another quadriplegic that also received massage to help. This week, I gave it a try as well and was surprised by the result.

A friend of mine from my school years recently moved on from doing physical therapy to massage at a local day spa. After a few message exchanges on Facebook, we figured out logistics in how to make it work and see what happened.

My caregiver and friend transferred me to the table and got me positioned as needed. My limbs are small, but they have strength to them and have hurt my caregivers before. I was concerned the rubbing would set them off, but thankfully they had minimal reaction. I watched and chatted as my arms received a good rubbing, and I could feel them relax. Moving to my shoulders and neck, where I can feel, my talking decreased as I enjoyed the feeling of muscles relaxing and loosing up.

When the hour-long session was complete, I got fully dressed and positioned in my chair again. Five hours later, my legs and arms were still loose, almost floppy, and barely twitched at stimulation they normally jump at. I didn't know what to expect, but I think I have another option to try to use natural methods for muscle control. It would only be monthly at most and not during the winter (too many clothes to remove and put on), but I'm thankful for the opportunity and look forward to next time.

Dealing with Transition

It happens every year, the transition from warm temps in the summer to the cold weather in winter. Bridging the gap between these two is the appropriately named fall, as temperatures begin to drop. Friday, I was out in the elements and not enjoying the new reality.

Early in the morning, my day nurse notified us she was ill and would not be able to come. Therefore, my parents would need to cover the time. They had planned on a day for the two of them to spend time together and I would go to my annual physical. Since the three of us would have the entire day, we would combine our separate plans into one.

Dad finished getting me ready for the day when he returned from work. Despite looking like a nice partly sunny day out my window, my thermostat read a temp in the 40's. Getting out at my doctor's office, the cool air hit my face with a shock. My appointment went well, but I also got my annual flu shot while I was there. I debated since I was scheduled to preach today, but hoped I wouldn't have a reaction.

When my appointment was complete, we headed to southeast Iowa with a goal of visiting the Dutchman's Store in the tiny town of Cantrel. I have heard many stories about this unique store, but never visited myself. On the way, we stopped for lunch in another larger town, but actually went inside to eat (a rarity). After dining on Chinese, we finally reached our destination. Getting out of the van each time, the sun felt good on my face, but the breeze and shade felt miserable.

The store was indeed very unique. It looked like multiple buildings had morphed into one large structure with each having it's own specialty. One section had belts and footwear, another hats, toys, spices of all sorts, and a large grocery store. The area around Cantrel has a large Amish population with many getting supplies at the Dutchman's Store. Young women with traditional Amish clothing gave curious, but polite, glances toward this guy in a wheelchair wearing jeans and barefoot.

With our main goal reached, my parents finished their purchases and we started heading home, with a few more stops on the way. As the sun sank low on the horizon, all I could think of was getting home in bed and under the blankets. I felt cold, but my parents were warm in the van that had been heated by the sun. As home neared, I was mentally planning early hibernation and wanting to stay inside and rest. However, I figured my flu shot had some influence on my feelings.

Around March, 40's-50's will feel warm again. Part of the quad life is dealing with bad temperature regulation, but I'm thankful for warm beds, homes, blankets, and the ability to get out and explore.

Honesty is Best

When I visit schools, I am sometimes asked if I know this or that person who also uses a wheelchair. Most of the time, the answer is no. However, due to connections through social media, I do know several more people that I likely never would have met. One of these individuals is Alex Malarkey and his mother Beth.

Alex and his dad, Kevin, were in a car accident when Alex was six-years-old. He received a very high level spinal injury and dad didn't have any lasting injuries. A few years after Alex's injury, he told a story that he went to heaven in the accident, but was sent back. Kevin wrote this account into a book called "A Boy Who Came back from Heaven." It was very popular and sold over 1 million copies. I believe it was also made into a movie. The problem is, the trip didn't happen.

A few years after the book's release, Alex became a Christian and boldly admitted the story was fiction, he made it up. Beth and Alex, along with others, tried getting the book taken off the market, but stores wouldn't listen. Thankfully, after years of trying, the true story was revealed and the book was no longer sold.

Now that he couldn't make money from book sales, Kevin left his wife, Alex, and took the other children with him. Alex is now 24 and lives with his mom as his only caregiver. They had been living in the same house since the accident, but Kevin decided he wants to sell it and has evicted Alex and Beth.

They went through several court sessions to overturn the eviction, but Beth's lawyer died unexpectedly in early September and left them without representation. Unable to find a place to purchase, they spent this past week moving to a temporary location until somewhere else can be found.

In many ways, Alex has a lot of the same care needs that I do. However, his injury is higher and included the brain stem which includes much more specialized care. Therefore, a house that works for his needs is not easy to find and any residence would likely require much renovating. You can watch a synopsis of his story done by Justin Peters Ministries, along with a link to help with funds.

I am very thankful for the parents and family God has blessed me with. Living the quad life is a challenge, but this type of situation is even worse in my thought. I ask for prayers for Alex and Beth that they may find a place to live soon. However, I also pray for Alex's dad Kevin, that he may truly come to God and love his entire family as he should. I keep hoping someone will buy the house and then let Alex and Beth continue to live there as renters or some type of arrangement.

Whatever comes, I'm thankful Alex came to Christ and was honest, even though it has cost him much in this life. I pray I would do the same if such a circumstance happened in my life.

30 in 30

A few weeks ago, I wrote about a new goal for September, getting a video out every day on my YouTube channel. Yesterday, I finished editing and uploading the 30th and final video for the month. If I assume they all get released as scheduled, I will have made my goal.

Getting them made was somewhat fun, but a challenge as well. I like educating about the life I have been given and trying to help others. However, I didn't like the constant feeling of being pushed to get more content out.

At night, I had ideas for script running through my head while also trying to plan time to record. I did about half the videos while in bed. I prefer recording while in my chair, but I knew that it wouldn't be possible to finish everything. Therefore, I tried to prepare messages that included a lot of data for bed recording. It was easier to show statistics and other information on screen while talking about it and not needing to remember it and then add screen shots in editing.

I have watched some YouTube channels that regularly release daily videos, but I don't envy them. Constantly planning and editing is probably a routine you can get used to, but not something I want to do. For me, it would quickly get boring as most days are nearly the same. The channels I watch that do frequent videos are usually families with several kids. Children are usually active in various items and therefore more interest for videos.

While it was a fun experiment, I do not want to continue with the routine. Also this month, I had a doctor's appointment that found I have an infection around my trach. I started an antibiotic about a week ago, but I have to take extra precaution in order to keep my gut working correctly.

The quad life is one I know well and I'm thankful God has given me the ability to do this. I hope to do more videos soon, but only after a few week's break.

Falling Apart or in Control?

Since early 2020, I have not watched mainstream news channels, such as ABC, CBS, NBC, CNN, etc. I may go to my local CBS website for weather updates on occasion, but that's about it. I haven't missed their reports and generally have been fine without it.

Sometimes, I do watch short segments online from Fox news to stay aware of what is going on in the world. The items I watched this week reported on the large increase in violence around the country as some states basically do away with punishment. Another report was somewhat sarcastic as illegal immigrants were brought to areas that say they welcome migrants, but actually don't want any.

Whether you watch the news or not, it isn't hard to see the world is increasing in chaos. Much blame is put on a certain political party, but this isn't the sole source of problems. Looking through history, before it's erased, you can see it building over the last several decades. It has increased as trust in the Bible has decreased.

Starting around 1800, evolutionary theories began to grow in the church. Many theories were proposed that basically said we could reinterpret the clear teaching of Genesis and make it say what we wanted. If you can't trust the opening pages of a book, the foundation it is built upon, why believe the rest? As generations were taught this understanding, less of the Bible was believed.

In the 1970's, children went from being precious gifts from God to a blob of cells that can be killed. More recently, marriage being for one man and woman for life (Genesis 1-2) has become almost anything but this definition. Finally, a person doesn't even need to be the gender they were born as and can pick from over 100 options.

Reading Romans 1, this type of situation is described when a nation is under God's judgment. I continue to pray for a return to Christianity, but am afraid the trend toward more trouble will grow worse. No matter what is going on though, I remember God is in control and is the King of kings and Lord of lords.

For the next several weeks, as another election cycle looms in the United States, I expect to see more outrageous claims and actions. However, I look to the fully reliable history in God's Word and remember that nations come and go, but the Lord's will carries on.

Olmstead Term

In 1999, the US Supreme Court made what's called the Olmstead Decision. The main point was that people with disabilities have the right to live independently, even when using state-funded resources. However, each state is responsible for monitoring its own compliance of this law.

Iowa supports an organization called the Olmstead Consumer Task Force to monitor the state's adherence to this decision and recommend changes. I joined the task force in late 2019 for a three-year term to see where I could help.

Full group meetings were held every-other month at a library near Des Moines. I wasn't sure about attending the four-hour long meetings in winter, but an option was available to join by phone. I think we had three meetings before the pandemic started and every one since then has been completely virtual.

For the first two years, I didn't really know how to help. I commented on occasion about issues I experienced, but not much else. Sitting here on my computer watching people give lengthy reports on Iowa government issues became a test of paying attention and awake. A year ago, I was able to join one of the sub-committees to help with more specific items.

Now, I was able to contribute more to the monthly meetings and feel like I was actually helping. This summer, I initiated a project to address accessibility concerns at a large event held in the state annually. Finally, for the first time in nearly three years, I felt like I was helping and making a difference.

Friday was the last meeting of my term. Several other members voiced opinion with wanting to do more, just as I wanted to do. I felt bad leaving at a time that I could possibly help more Iowans with disabilities. Therefore, I agreed to serve another term.

I have no idea what will happen in three more years, or if I'll be able to complete the term. I also don't need more things to do, but such is the quad life. I pray that I can be a productive member and help others through my participation, however long that is.

Self-Imposed Labor

We have reached September and Labor Day weekend in the U.S. Throughout August, I was looking forward to having a calm month ahead. However, my head wouldn't shut off one night and now I have another full month, even though my calendar is quite sparse.

September is National Spinal Cord Injury awareness month. In 2019, following the example of a friend, I posted something SCI related on Facebook every day of the month. With 30 items, I covered a lot of the aspects of living the quad life and I received several compliments on the project. At some hour of the night around August 20, I got the idea to do the same this year on my YouTube channel.

The next day, I found the list of items I covered in 2019 and adjusted a few to better fit video format. This was all great, but I now committed myself to recording, editing, and uploading 30 videos. I have been struggling to get two out per week the past few months and this would be a lot more work.

Unlike Facebook, I can at least make videos ahead of time and schedule them to be released on certain days and times with YouTube. If I was going to make it happen, I determined I needed to have at least one week's worth of videos finished before September 1. By August 30, I had completed and uploaded eight videos. They weren't all sequential, but I had the first few days covered at least.

Now, I am trying to make at least one video per day and have done two a few times. As of this writing, I have now uploaded 12 videos and hope to get another one finished before this blog goes live. I enjoy helping people learn and it has been fun getting to teach about the life I've been given. The few videos that have gone out to the public have already received good comments and more views than I normally get.

Hopefully, I can finish this project without getting overwhelmed. Maybe by the time the middle of the month arrives I will be able to slow down. However, I wouldn't count on it knowing me.

Grilled Joel

The problems with my trach button have been continuing. This past week was another appointment to try to fix the issue. However, I wondered if I was actually participating in an experiment instead.

Due to my caregiver schedule, I have very limited days that I can go out to appointments. My ENT doesn't normally do procedures on the days I have this freedom, but he very graciously rearranged his appointments to make a time that worked for me. This part was relatively simple, but the procedure was delayed for several weeks due to maintenance issues.

Since previous attempts haven't stopped the drainage, my doctor wanted to go more drastic. This time, he would take a laser and burn off excess skin around my button. However, this process produces smoke that could contain viruses and it needed contained. Unfortunately, the smoke vacuum was broken and we had to wait for parts.

Tuesday morning, I got up quite early to get to my 8:00 procedure, but still ended up arriving 20 minutes late. After numbing my button area and putting on special glasses, the ENT started to laser around my trach. As he did, I noticed a nearly constant stream of smoke floating past my face and up my nose, with an unpleasant smell. I joked that I was being grilled while my thoughts wondered why we waited for a vacuum to be fixed that apparently wasn't doing its job.

After about 15 minutes of grilling around my neck, and adjusting the suction to collect smoke, the procedure was complete. With the early start, I considered doing other activities in the city, but ended up returning home. It felt somewhat odd to get home from a doctor's appointment around the time I'm usually leaving.

It has been a few days since my grilling and I'm not sure if it has helped or not. I will give it more time to heal, but it's part of living the quad life. Medical procedures are not like mechanics where one change solves the issue. Taking multiple tries, and then more, are sometimes required to find the solution. I pray we will soon fix it though and I can have less discomfort and not go through 2-3 shirts a day due to neck junk.

Unworthy expert?

Friday was my second day at the Iowa State Fair, volunteering at the Ark Encounter booth. I didn't notice as many people passing me while looking at their phone, but I was run into by someone on his phone later in the day. This week's takeaway was something that has been building for a few weeks.

Both days, I was able to speak with several people and was again thankful for my personal microphone system. Near the end of my shift, a nearby volunteer started talking with a man who approached her. Shortly after, she pointed him to me saying, "He is much smarter than me." The man and I then chatted for several minutes about dinosaurs in the Bible and his recent realization they would have been on Noah's Ark.

No matter how many letters are behind your name, someone else will always be more knowledgeable in a different area.  I'm very happy to help in areas I have had more opportunity to study than someone else, but I would not say I am smarter than anyone. After posting pictures of last week's visit on Facebook, I also received a comment saying I inspired someone to do more. To me, this also isn't a good analogy.

In Luke 17:7-10 (it took me 3 days to find the passage), Jesus talks about a servant (slave in Greek) that simply did as he was told. He rightly didn't receive any special treatment or recommendation, he just did his job. This is exactly what I feel, but not even filling my assignments.

After creation week, God made Adam to have dominion over creation (Genesis 1:26). Therefore, we are supposed to study His work, understand it, and teach others. Jesus also said to preach the gospel to all people (Matthew 28:18-20). Therefore, as a Christian, I am to know about God's creation (the universe), teach others the gospel, while not sinning against Him, and loving others as ourselves.

I do not fulfill my tasks by any means. As the slave in Luke 17, I am not worthy of anything special for not even doing my assignments. Yes I have extra physical challenges, but God has abundantly blessed me with a loving family, funding for caregivers, people that are willing to help me in such a situation, reliable transportation, and the list goes on.

It can be easy to get a proud and arrogant spirit as well, but God said He gives grace to the humble. I'm glad God has allowed the quad life I've been given to help others. However, I'm not doing anything extra that all Christians are required. This is a busy week ahead, but I will continue to try and do as commanded.

Cell phone trip?

Friday was my first of two mornings volunteering at the Iowa State Fair in the Ark Encounter booth. I have been at the booth for several years, but I noticed something more this time than any time before.

At 9:00, a plethora of volunteers were at the booth and we all took different locations to park. As everyone moved around during conversations and leaving for breaks, I eventually migrated to my favorite corner and continued watching people stream by and who I could reach out to. Watching a sea of faces, I saw a very high number only looking down at their cell phone and texting.

Granted, the building I am in primarily has sales persons pedaling anything under the sun. After so many hot tubs, cookware, and other items you can't live without, it's easy to zone out and just walk along. However, you can at least look up and see where you're walking and enjoy being out of your regular environment.

Last year, I'm sure some of the same was happening, but I don't remember it as much. After missing the fair in 2020, I think everybody was glad to be out and wanted to fully experience the fair fun again. Unfortunately, society quickly forgets the past and to not take anything for granted.

After my shift, I found an easy place for lunch and saw more heads pointed down at phones while sitting and eating fair food. It was then my time to explore the fair, but I only had about an hour to do so before I needed to leave. Sara was also having trouble walking, so we didn't look around very much. For the time I had, I did not look at any electronic device while I did meander.

Whatever you have going on this week, make sure to take the time and enjoy what you get to do. No matter if it's in the quad life or not, it can quickly be taken away and we can seriously miss what we chose not to see.

What space is used?

A few nights ago, I was in my usual position of laying flat in bed and watching something on my computer. Looking off to my right, seeing the rest of my room, my mind started to wonder. I have all this space, but how much is actually utilized most of the time?

My bedroom is about 20x12, or 240 square feet. Part of that is taken up by the closet, but I have seven pieces of furniture and an office chair that consume floor space. When I'm in my chair, I do need room to get around as well as space to park so the lift, suspended from the ceiling, can be used to get me in and out of bed. The majority of the time though, my full concentration is on a 27" screen. Therefore, a lot of extra space is only used for short periods of time.

If everyone truly takes the time to consider this same scenario, many likely have a similar situation. Of course space is needed to get around and access whatever we use, but how often is it all needed? I'm just looking at indoor space in this scenario, outdoors is even more space.

Living in Iowa, I can easily see endless acres used for fields, which are used to feed people, livestock, and various other applications. That is a good use of land, but many other areas of the country, and world, sit open and are available for use (Montana, Wyoming, etc).

These are interesting things to ponder, but what's the lesson in it? God has given us a vast creation to enjoy His handiwork and study what He has created. We have also been commanded to fill the earth and subdue it. Many people try to say the earth is overpopulated and we can't support everyone, but it's not the case.

For those that live in large population centers, like New York, Las Angeles, Mexico City, Beijing, and others, I can understand their thinking. If you only see large buildings with small apartments stuffed into every space, it would seem over-crowded. However, the majority of the world is not like this and is quite open.

Therefore, the item to remember is that God knows what He has commanded and we have far to go to fill the earth. As you go throughout the week ahead, take time to see what area you actually use, and remember God has given it all for His glory and to serve His purposes.

Preaching to Self

When I'm witnessing to someone one-on-one, leading a church service, or making a video, it is easy to cover the Ten Commandments to show a need for salvation. However, some habits or personal actions also break the commands in ways we don't recognize as easily. Tonight, I'm scheduled to lead a church service and will be preaching on one of these common problems. With this message, I'm also preaching to myself as well as those listening.

James 3:1-12 (and more passages) talks about taming the tongue; that it is a restless evil full of deadly poison. With the tongue, we praise God as well as curse men who have been made in God's image (anyone). Directly or indirectly, we break at least six of the Ten Commandments by not holding our tongue. It is something a lot of people struggle with, and I'm not any better.

I know that when an accusation is directed toward me, or a blatantly false statement is made against God's Word, I am quick to respond. Instead of being quick to listen and slow to speak (James 1:19), I answer without always giving thought and may sin in my anger (Ephesians 4:26). It is a trait that I, and many people, need to constantly work on and continue to fight against.

Another item that is similar is the sin of pride. As I said earlier, when someone talks against me, pride in my heart want to lash out. A few nights ago, I finished reading the book of Job. Every time I read this part of the Bible, it reminds me of how pride can dwell within us. God said Job was a righteous man, but allowed him to be tested. As Job's friends talked with him, he demanded to speak with God and have Him answer Job's accusations. When God did speak with Job, he humbled himself and repented in dust an ashes.

As part of avoiding pride, I try not to promote myself as doing anything special. In truth, I'm not doing anything beyond what God has commanded all Christians. Therefore, it doesn't deserve to be mentioned or given special recognition for all to see. That's why I do very little advertising of my channels and some are surprised they even exist.

Throughout this week, and new month, I will try to follow what I have been given to preach. It is a part to learn in the quad life, but something I need to continue to work on.

Black Button

For the last few months, I have been having trouble with my trach button putting out a lot of junk. I have written about it earlier, but once again had it looked at this week.

Tuesday afternoon, I went to see my ENT in Des Moines. Even though testing said I didn't have an infection in the area, I still wondered if that was the problem. When I saw the doctor and repeated what has been happening and my thoughts, he was certain the issue is coming from granulation tissue. That is small skin growth, or skin tags, around the button trying to close the hole and response to the plastic button.

I eat a lot of protein and take medication to promote skin growth in order to heal my pressure sores. Unfortunately, it appears a necessary hole in my skin is quicker to repair than the area I want to target.

This doctor is also knew to me, replacing my previous ENT who left to work over seas in 2021. Therefore, I try to emphasize my history and previous trouble with infection in the area. No matter my concerns, he took several swabs of silver nitrate to zap all skin tags, just as he did in May. This resulted in a black ring around my button that I was told not to touch for a few days. I would post a picture, but it wasn't a pleasant sight.

Returning home, I made sure to pass along the instructions to my next caregiver and wear a shirt with a very low neck. The treatment also made my neck, and throat, sore which made me try to minimize movement and speech as much as possible.

By Thursday, I allowed my button to gently be cleaned and remove the blackness. The area was still sore, but it looked better at least. It is now Saturday afternoon as I write this and it appears the treatment has helped some, but still not as much as I had hoped. I am scheduled to preach next Sunday and hope to wear one of my new shirts I recently purchased. However, I don't want neck gunk on it the first time it's worn.

Thankfully, I have been blessed with a very healthy quad life and have had relatively few problems. I know this is an issue other quadriplegics regular deal with, but I'm praying it will not become something that's a regular battle. I will see what God has planned and look to Him for whatever comes.

Job Prospect

Sometimes, I look around and dream of possibilities of how life could be different. Last week, I had a few minutes to fill between other activities and started looking around. I wish I hadn't, but the results did get my mind spinning in realms of "what if."

While on Facebook, I saw an advertisement from Answers in Genesis talking about job openings. If I ever was able to work anywhere again, this would be high on the list of organizations I would consider. I scrolled through the list of 102 openings and browsed the headlines. Most of them were seasonal needs for summer, but some were permanent positions in various departments. One opening near the end of the list caught my eye.

The title said it was an entry position for a content manager for the company's web presence. Clicking on it for further detail, it was like I was reading my own qualifications. Required education was a 2-year degree, which I have, and experience with HTML and CSS. The person would work with a content management system to get videos, pictures, and text on websites, social media, and various electronic platforms. In short, the exact thing I do for my clients already. However, the position is for full-time work, including some weekends, in northern Kentucky.

It has been nearly 20 years since I last worked full-time in a regular office environment. With the trouble I have with pressure sores and other issues, I know I can't physically work that much anymore. Also, due to using my dad's employer's insurance as well as Medicaid through Iowa, I am extremely limited in what I can earn. For example, if I lost my caregiver funding through Medicaid, that cost alone would be around $200 per day ($6,000/month).

I would love the opportunity to allow my parents to be free from having to provide so much for me, and be less reliant on government support. Unfortunately, the system basically requires me to stay just as I am with doing very little paid work. 

In any case, it's sometimes fun to dream and wonder. God has given me the quad life right where I am and I will serve Him wherever He leads me.

Double Preaching

Last week, I preached twice on the same day. In the morning, I was at a small church I served several times last year in Bussey, Iowa. For evening, I served a larger local church that had a small crowd due to the holiday.

When I was approached by these congregations, I was hesitant to agree to do both as I wondered if my voice could handle it and time commitment. However, I concluded I could use the same message at both churches and, from past experience, I only needed to handle the sermon. Therefore, I agreed to serve both congregations on July 3.

As I finished final preparations, I coordinated with the secretary of the local church on my material and presentation. When she gave me the bulletin preview the Monday before I preached, I noticed several blank spots. Asking about them, I then learned I was expected to do the entire service. I was thankful I had a few days to prepare, but wasn't sure if I could do it all. I adjusted my PowerPoint to include the welcome message and further notes and prayed it would go well. Emails late Saturday evening added further changes, but nothing too major.

Sunday morning, I woke up with a dry, slightly sore throat. I tried to stay as quiet as possible to save my voice, but soon sat in the now familiar congregation with a relaxed style of worship. I presented the message, "One Nation Under God," and thought it went pretty well. After lunch, I didn't do much more than watch YouTube and not use my voice.

After a few hours at home, I was again up in my chair and off to my next church. My throat was still sore, but thankfully not bad. As I sat waiting for the pianist to finish the prelude for me to start, I noticed the welcome message I provided wasn't on the screen. As I introduced myself after more than two years away, I still noticed my opening verses were not on the screen. Thankfully, I had written them in my notes, but I didn't have all my text recorded and needed the screen for my message.

I progressed through the first songs while wondering in my head how to manage if my passages didn't appear. Thankfully, as I started the message for the second time that day, the text came up on the screen. I briefly looked at my watch as I began preaching, and when I looked again another 20 minutes had elapsed. I ended up going about 13 minutes longer than the planned hour-long service, but nobody said anything to me.

All week, my throat has been a little sore in the morning, but has thankfully improved. I'm not sure I will agree to do two services in a day again, but it did okay. Currently, I only have one more church scheduled this month and one in late August. I'm thankful to get to be used for God's glory, but need to ease into doing more.

Juggling Week

This blog's tagline is about dealing with the unexpected. While that doesn't happen frequently anymore, this past week was full of unexpected events that needed to be handled in their own way.

Early Tuesday morning, my day nurse Sara called to say that she wasn't feeling well and wouldn't be able to come until later. Therefore, my night nurse got me up at 6:30 before he left. Getting up an hour earlier than usual, I slightly dozed through some YouTube while mom and I waited on Sara. Unfortunately, she wasn't able to come at all and dad stayed with me all day.

The caregiver switch went well though, as I put my legs in the sun while watching dad wash my van. We then ran the errands I had hoped to do that day and had a pleasant afternoon. Around 4:30, the phone rang again with my other day-time caregiver, Leah, on the line. She had an unexpected death in the family and wouldn't be able to work on Wednesday.

For the second day in a row, I got up early and had the day with mom. Dad came home from work as needed to help with my cares, but wasn't able to stay home again. Thankfully, a family friend was able to stay with me in the afternoon so mom could work in the basement. It was interesting spending time with a 15-year-old, but he did well.

Thursday, Sara worked a few hours as normally scheduled, but it still meant I had to get up early. I was thankful to see she was improving and looked forward to a regular day on Friday. Finally, the last day of the work week, I could sleep to my normal time. However, after three days of getting up early, I was still awake early.

As I went to take my first bike ride of the week, the tablet that controls the system needed to do an update. While waiting, I called my doctor about an issue I've been having and then had an early lunch. Two hours later, the bike was still updating, so I started getting setup to record a video for my YouTube channel. Just as we were finishing setup, my doctor called back and wondered if I could come in immediately as he could work me in the schedule. Sara put away my camera and we headed to the doctor.

By the time we returned, my bike had finally completed updates, but it was too late in the day to get on it. What I had hoped to get accomplished didn't happen and it turned into a very busy day of waiting and guessing.

The Bible says to not boast about tomorrow as you don't know what may come. In this week's quad life, the was very true. I'm hopeful that tomorrow's holiday and the remainder of the week goes well. However, I will wait to say plans until after they happen!

Galesburg Railroad Days

Yesterday was the annual Railroad Days in Galesburg, IL. It is held the fourth weekend in June and is a great gathering of railroad enthusiasts. Dad and I enjoyed visiting last year and we decided to go again this year.

Since our previous visit, dad has done a fair amount of work on our train layout. When I have extra funds, I have been ordering train cars as well as some scenery items. Like with every hobby, you can spend as much time and expense as you want and can still do more. However, a mixed freight train I have been putting together is now the correct length for the size of our track. While we have supplies for scenery, it has yet to be used anywhere.

Therefore, I didn't have any certain items I was looking for and knew I couldn't get much for cars or engines. Dad and I have a constant debate between what era to model. He likes older era equipment from the 50's and I like modern items that are on the rails today. With our two interests combined, we have far more items to put on the tracks than space allows. I suppose we could fill every inch of rail we have, but then trains wouldn't have room to move.

Dad and roamed through model train vendors for about three hours. I did end up getting a few items, but restrained myself from getting much. We then got a very late lunch and ate while sitting by railroad tracks for about an hour before returning home. The two of us left home at 8:06 Saturday morning and returned around 7:45 that evening.

It was a lot of driving for only four hours of doing what we had planned. It was still fun though and likely the only major outing I'll have this year. Dad has already discussed changes to make next year go better, but I was thankful I didn't suffer any major setbacks like last year. Now, I have a week to prepare for preaching twice next Sunday along with a busy work week. It is an interesting time of year for the quad life.

Meeting with Ham

Throughout history, God has selected certain people to be used for extraordinary purposes. In our current place in time, several men have been allowed to run organizations that point the world back to the truth of the Bible and to look to it for our sure foundation.

One of these individuals is Ken Ham, the founder and CEO of Answers in Genesis (AIG). Since its start, AIG has produced numerous books and videos about biblical creation and built the Creation Museum and Ark Encounter in Kentucky. I started following AIG around 2008 and God used this teaching to get me to seriously follow His Word and learn about the world we see today.

Therefore, Mr. Ham is one of the handful of people I have wanted to meet in person. I have been to the Creation Museum and Ark, but the organization's founder was not around at the same time. I didn't think I would ever get to see the man that God used to help me, but that changed on Friday night.

I received an email over a month ago that invited supporters of AIG to have dessert with Ken Ham at an event in Des Moines. It didn't take long for me to ask my caregiver Sara if she could take me and if we could rearrange her normal schedule so I could go. She also liked the opportunity to meet Mr. Ham and gladly agreed.

It felt odd driving to the city at a time of day I am usually at home finishing my day's tasks. Sara carefully drove through city traffic to find fast food for supper before going to our evening event. The church wasn't hard to find, but handicapped parking was already taken and we could see a line waiting to enter.

Eventually, we got parked, checked in, and found a pew in the medium-sized, but full, sanctuary. AIG's president gave a brief introduction before Ken Ham came up to speak about the ministry's past, present, and goals for the future. I have seen several presentations, and read many books, by Mr. Ham, but it was fun to see him in person. I could feel the childish grin on my face as I listened, but wasn't successful in hiding it.

When all the presentations were complete, Sara and I joined the line that quickly formed to meet with Mr. Ham. It moved slowly as some people took extra time to converse with the founder. When our turn came, the person directing people wasn't allowing much time to stop. I wanted to say how much AIG has done for me in bringing me closer to God, that I preach, teach, and write abut creation, and my dream job is to be a speaker with AIG.

Sara gave her phone to the security person who quickly took our picture. We maybe had 90 seconds with the man I have wanted to meet for many years. I tried to say what I had practiced in my head, but don't think he heard most of it as we were ushered away for the next group to come.

By this time, it was getting late and we had to drive home. I talked with a few friends that were also in attendance and several people that recognized me from volunteering at the AIG booth at the Iowa State Fair. The two of us returned home about 30 minutes after my night nurse arrived and was ready for bed.

Living the quad life, God has enabled me to serve Him in many ways. I'm thankful I was allowed to meet one person that has been used by God to help me, even if briefly. I doubt it will happen again, but I continue to pray that I will be able to help others learn maybe help them as I have been.

Week of Distraction

Sometimes, I have plans to get certain things accomplished in a day. When it's time for bed, I remember all the items I didn't finish. This week has been one of those times of intending to do more than I got finished.

I preached this morning, giving the same message I gave at a different congregation two weeks ago. The message was quite familiar and in my mind, but I still wanted to review it a few times. When I went to look at it late in the evening, I always felt hot and tired and convinced myself to try the next day. Therefore, I didn't look at it again until Friday night for the first time.

One of my web projects is going very well, but I'm too the point that I need more information from the site owner. It has been a rush project, but now I feel like I am getting behind on it. Hopefully, I can get it finished by the projected deadline, but that will depend on getting material and when I can sit.

Also this week, I have been a very hard time focusing on anything, as I'm noticing in this entry. It seems like as soon as I'm sitting and can work on something, that's when my family or someone wants to chat

or get help with something. By the time they are finished, a third to half of my 45-minute time period is up. I don't like starting on a project and quitting after only fifteen minutes of work, so I end up doing superfluous items like Scripture typing or looking at a game that's easier to do while upright (like my airline).

No matter what is going on in the quad life, I try to be sure not to be so distracted that I neglect God's Word. I'm thankful I got in the habit of daily reading slots more than a decade ago. I heard once that if you get in a routine before you turn 30, you are likely to keep at it (good or bad). My head may get distracted to other thoughts, but I feel like I have missed part of the day if I'm late at reading for some reason. Hopefully this new week will get better with less distraction, but I will try to push through whatever comes.

The Narrow Road

The last two weeks, I helped two congregations by preaching God's Word. Today was a week off, but I didn't have a nurse last night and won't again tonight. It's a tiring end and beginning to a week, but thankfully it doesn't happen every week.

I watched a Christian news segment recently that cited a study that found only 37% of American pastors have a Biblical worldview. It's a very saddening statistic to see, but I'm unfortunately not very surprised by it. In just the past few decades that I have seen compromise of Biblical authority continue to increase at an alarming rate.

First, as the study found, few pastors take the opening 11 chapters of Genesis as actual history. Many church leaders allow for secular, atheistic, science to dictate earth history instead of staying with recent creation in six days as the Bible clearly shows. If a foundation of a book is no longer considered true, then why should the rest be trusted?

That is what has been happening and why churches are not standing on the Bible's definition of marriage between one man and woman. The consequences of sinning against God are also downplayed with some congregations saying to just be a good person (even though Jesus said nobody is good, except God). With so few ministers believing the Bible, it is no surprise that church congregations are also compromised.

In this past week, I have been saddened to see some of my friends treat God like some sort of divine butler, demanding what they want. Another professes Christ, but speech and actions show a different profession. Finally, one close friend looking to disregard many clear teachings in Scripture to look at going to another faith.

The words Jesus spoke in Matthew 7:13-14 keep resounding in my mind, narrow is the way that leads to eternal life and few find it. I continue to pray and share what I can with those around me, but my heart still breaks and I wish I could do more. Thankfully, I  have been given an active quad life that I can still be used for however God chooses.

Memorial for Selected Ones

As years and decades continue, the world gets further away from the Bible, following God, or making logical sense. This was seen again last week with another school shooting, this time in Texas.

At this point, 19 children and 2 adults were killed with around a dozen more in the hospital. The kids were second graders along with their teachers. Even though this is not the first such tragedy, and likely not the last, it's very hard to see. I grieve with the families while politicians use it for political gain and news outlets repeat details and point fingers at who should have done what.

The same day the nation was in shock about this school, thousands of children were legally killed in their mother's wombs. Unfortunately, much of this happens every day with no news reports or memorials given for the victims. Losing a child at any stage, from fertilization, to grade school, through high school, is a tragedy that should not go unnoticed.

In the 1800's, new theories were developed saying the earth was developed slowly and not by God. Charles Darwin built upon this with his evolution model explaining life as an accident and it just formed on its own. Generations of school children have now been taught this and the result is that life is no longer sacred, either in the womb, or according to some, at any point.

This Memorial Day weekend, many families are remembering loved ones that have died. The nation also remembers those that have fought in the armed forces and lost their life in the effort to ensure freedom. I pray that these lives, and the cause they died for, will also not be forgotten.

I would encourage everyone to not only reflect on close relatives that have been lost, but also for those who have died early in life due to the actions of others. Ultimately, we need to remember God is in control and when a nation has turned its back on Him, we will see such actions. Hopefully this week goes well, and God's Word will continue to spread.

Vacation Week

Iowa weather, like much of the country, has been up and down again this week. While my parents were gone, I had the air conditioner on early in the week and had trouble with over heating. Yesterday, I switched back to the furnace with indoor temps struggling to stay above 70.

When setting up my caregiver schedule, I was careful to arrange it so that I had someone every day that could get me on my exercise bike. Therefore, I had a new record of biking six days in a row. I wasn't able to record everything to the bike's database, but the sessions did at least happen.

I wasn't sure how my body would react to all the exercise, but it went pretty well. Monday through Thursday, my legs peddled for 3-4 minutes on their own each time, but only a little over two minutes on Friday. I thought maybe they had given up working, but then did over eight minutes on Saturday. I never know what to expect from my body, but I'm thankful I could have a new record of consecutive rides. This week, I will likely only get to bike once, if even that much.

It was nice having the house to myself again for the week and to see my parents have a break. The college student I have had this year offered to stay in town for an additional week after school to allow my parents to go. Now, she will not be in Iowa for most of the summer and we'll be back to a few open hours every week. Thankfully though, I am very blessed to have as many hours covered as I do.

Yesterday, I was reading a friend's comments on Facebook about caregiver experience. She, and her son, both need some assistance and rely on help. My friend had four interviews scheduled this past week with some perspectives not showing up and others declining the position an hour after being accepted. One accepted the position, trained for the job, but then didn't come for her first shift and blocked any contact.

Living the quad life has it's challenges in multiple areas. While I don't know what to expect next, I'm comforted knowing God is in control.

Feedback Trouble

It has been another week of juggling responsibilities and trying to keep everything accomplished, but it doesn't always go well. Problems with technology and debating theology only add to the challenges.

I am very thankful that I can continue to use the FES bike at home to exercise my legs and help improve circulation. Starting each bike session requires my setting to be downloaded from the internet, The conclusion of the ride is then uploaded to a database for long-term evaluation. Recently, my Monday bike report showed I have officially ridden 500 sessions for over 1650 miles. However, that may be the last correct report for a while.

My small town started offering high-speed internet about a year ago. I got it last fall and have somewhat liked the service, but it is new and has some bugs to work out. Just over a week ago, a technician came to try to fix slow browsing speed we were experiencing. His work helped, but the bike will no longer connect to the wireless network. I have worked with multiple technicians for several hours, but without any progress. I can still bike without internet connection, but it means my settings can't be adjusted and my sessions can't be recorded. One affordable possible solution still exists, but I will need to find hardware to test the theory yet.

This week, two large web projects also officially started. For one, I have been communicating with the site owner for a few weeks and was eager to get started. However, I keep finding unexpected issues that delay starting on it. I feel bad telling the client I have more areas to solve that start, but I hope to get started and make significant progress soon.

Next week, I am also scheduled to preach at a church in the Des Moines area. I was very reluctant to agree to preach as I know the denomination and congregation have different views on the Bible than me. I did end up saying I would preach with the thought that maybe what God has given me would be helpful to the congregation. I sent my service material to the worship team a few days ago which sparked some lengthy message exchanges on uncertainty on my message and its acceptance for the congregation. I am still going to give the message, but I'm praying more earnestly that God uses me to help teach His Word in truth.

Starting tomorrow, I also have the house to myself for a few days while my parents take a much needed vacation. It has been a busy quad life that looks to continue for a few weeks, but I'm thankful God has continued to help me stay active and be used for His glory.

Outreach Days

The last three days have been the annual Tulip Time celebration in town. For the past several years, I have volunteered with a gospel outreach group. I wasn't sure I would be able to this year, but I did get out for some of the celebration.

Sara has been back for about a month, but she still gets tired easily and can't do much walking. On Thursday, my student nurse Brenda was scheduled to help me in the morning and Sara in the afternoon. I coordinated switching caregivers while I was around church and wondered how to have a calm day for Sara. Watching the weather reports as Thursday approached, it was forecast to be raining all day with cold (for me) temperatures. Rather than try to stay dry, warm, and coordinate switching somewhere, I chose to stay home.

Thursday turned out to be mostly dry with a few glimpses of the sun, but I was thankful I could give my caregivers a calm day. Sara worked all day Friday and I did go with the volunteer group. After listening to two training/educational sessions at church, Sara and I were ready to head out. Thankfully, my group was scheduled to spend the afternoon at an outreach booth and not walk around. I was glad that Sara didn't need to exert herself too much and I had a good gospel conversation with a young couple while having lunch. However, cold weather continued and I came home with a temp of 94.6. It took a while to warm up, but I did eventually.

Yesterday was predicted to be sunny with highs in the low 70's, and it actually was correct. Brenda and I spent the day with the outreach group and it went very well. I enjoyed the sun a little too much and got a slight burn, but nothing too serious. Last night, I didn't have a nurse again and mom and I spent the first hours of Mother's Day together.

I'm thankful for the parents God has given me, and especially mom. They have allowed me to do so much and have made it so I can have an active quad life. I am about to have more open days again, but I know God will provide us with everything we need.

Virtual Children

My friend John has been a regular spotlight on this blog. He and I enjoy our visits, I play with his sons, and quite often a computer gets upgraded, or dismantled. John's oldest son is in third grade and we casually talked about me visiting his class. However, John and his family live in Minnesota and driving more than four hours for a 30-minute school visit seemed a little much. However, when you're dealing with two IT guys, more options are available.

John talked with his son's teacher and she was okay with us experimenting on her class. After a one-week delay due to a popular illness, last Tuesday was my time to "visit." I have done a few college classes virtually, but all the students were adults and also joined me virtually. This would be my first attempt with a grade school and I would be the only virtual person "in" the room.

John and I tested technology options the day before and found a good setup. I logged into class at noon on Tuesday, and we had to again go through some testing. Fortunately, we gave ourselves a full 15 minutes before the students returned from recess. With some screeching audio problems quieted, we were ready to go.

I was on a computer that projected my video onto a marker board, along with my audio. John used the camera on his cell phone to act as my eyes and moved around the room so I could see writing quality and students asking questions.

After the lesson from Mr. Joel was complete, it seemed like everything went very well. I asked the teacher to take some pictures for me so I could use them for my mother's scrapbook and I could see how it went. Looking at the photographs, I noticed she wrote different terms I used on the board as well as my special instructions of having a barefoot class for writing.

It was a fun experiment and I got to do what I enjoy, teach kids about God's world and different abilities. I'm not sure how I could make it work without John's help, but I'll keep thinking of options. Teaching the quad life virtually could be a great way to help more kids learn, and not just in central Iowa.

Feeling Behind

Sometimes, it feels like you go two steps, or maybe wheel lengths, forward and one back. This past week has felt similar, but it did at least end with feeling ahead.

Next week, I'm scheduled to preach at my home church for the first time since August of 2018. Instead of using a message I've given before, I felt lead to give a new sermon based on trusting the truth of the Bible. It has been a message I am excited to give, but it's also one that some can see as controversial. Since I'll be preaching close to home, several friends have said they plan to attend the service. I really don't get nervous speaking to crowds, but can start to second-guess my topic if I know some may not agree with it. I remind myself to not fear man, but trust in the Lord.

After Sunday's relaxation, I knew I had to spend the week on sermon preparation. I already had it mostly planned and written, but I didn't like parts of it. I thought I would have plenty of time to work on it, but it seemed like every time I was upright ended up getting filled with something for web development or my regular bike sessions took longer than expected. Therefore, I ended up only getting one time in the evening each day to dedicate to sermon planning. Thankfully, by Friday evening, I finished writing the message, making most of my notes, and the PowerPoint that goes along with it. Now I just need to get it more firm in my head and make prompts for the person running the presentation.

Friday was also another visit to a local grade school to speak with 2nd graders. This was the fourth out of the five schools I'm seeing in April and it was my largest class size. I was thankful for the opportunity and enjoy working with the students. After I had them write with their mouth, I referenced a video I had them watch about a boy with no arms and how he did everything. One girl realized the class was barefoot and as she perceived where I was going with my presentation, I heard "Oh no, oh no," quietly repeated in the midst of faces.

Despite her fears, everyone did okay with mouth writing and foot writing. They learned someone with a disability may do things differently, but in the end get the same thing accomplished. As the young lady's hesitation ended up being unnecessary, I'm sure mine will be the same. I am now headed into another busy week and thankful to be feeling well again.

Problems Relieved

Today is Easter Sunday, a holiday that comes around every year. While most of the world looks to rabbits, eggs, and candy, that is not the meaning of the day. Instead of eating sweets that can serve to make you ill and overweight, this is the day when our biggest problem was solved.

About 2,000 years ago, Jesus was crucified on a cruel Roman cross. Some of Jesus' followers thought He was the expected Messiah and would free Israel from political bondage. After being betrayed by a disciple and receiving a corrupt trial by Jewish leaders, He was quickly sent to execution and died a horrific death. However, the account doesn't end there.

On the first day of the week, Sunday morning, Jesus conquered death and rose again. He was seen by many witnesses, 500 at one instance, and proved He was alive. Now, all who repent of their sins (lying, theft, lust, blasphemy, etc.) and come to Jesus Christ alone for forgiveness can receive everlasting life. It is a problem that everybody has, but not one everyone realizes exists.

For the past couple weeks, I've been feeling a little under the weather, tired, uncomfortable stomach, and always feeling cold. As I'm writing this, I feel like I could take a nap, but know I won't get any rest. While we have problems in this life that can go from annoying to extreme physical and/or emotional pain, they are nothing compared to the life to come.

Whoever does not come to Christ, will receive everlasting torment in hell where their is weeping, and gnashing of teeth, the fire is not quenched and the worm does not die. As sinners, this is what we deserve and bring judgment upon ourselves. Nothing in this life, no matter how bad, can compare to the suffering to come. However, this is what Jesus has saved us from, that we may have eternal life with Him.

Descriptions of heaven include streets of gold, no more death, crying or pain. Jesus will wipe away every tear from our eyes and we will live in the new heaven and earth. When any ailment comes in this life, it should make us look forward all the more to the life to come. I don't know what the week ahead will bring, but I remember this day of celebration and the gift we have been given.