"Christianity, if false, is of no importance, and if true, of infinite importance. The only thing it cannot be is moderately important."       C.S. Lewis

How would you answer this test question?

TRUE

Aristopher

"Great minds discuss ideas, average minds discuss events, small minds discuss people."

I do not believe we need to discuss this quote, only think to ourselves of which category to we personally fall into.

Aristopher

"If I might be the means of saving one soul I should prefer it to all the riches and honor in the world."    Asahel Nettleton

This could be an essay question for a college admissions application to better understand the thought process of the applicant.  Please write your essay and report back.

Aristopher

"What is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul."  Matthew 16:26 KJV

I must be in a true academician mode, as here is another great essay question for us to write.  I believe we need to write 2 versions, specifically one answer when we are happy and one while under some stress. This might be a way to tell our Faith level or if we show signs of earthly doubt at times.

Aristopher

"Don't miss the donut by looking through the hole."    Author Unknown




I relate this to whether the glass is 1/2 full or 1/2 empty.  I know I have never missed out on the pleasure of a donut by any distraction. We truly need to keep our eyes open to the truth and pain that exists in our society.  It is time we start helping those around us and showing the compassion of Jesus Christ to our fellow citizens.

Aristopher

The Main Focus

Our focus daily and monthly should be energy independence and sustain our real estate without further devaluation. Thought will change when our economy starts an upward trend.

Apply yourself both now and in the next life. Without effort, you cannot be prosperous. Though the land be good, You cannot have an abundant crop without cultivation. Plato

This reminds us that we must continue to work hard daily no matter how many reports we receive that a Double Dip is occurring in the economy. If we do not continue to improve our land, build homes, and market to new buyers, one cannot expect an improvement to occur. However, I have faith in God that He will have mercy and provide guidance for us in the real estate business to rebound and prosper once again for support of His Kingdom, the health of our families, communities and country.

Let's keep striving to succeed and believe in God's cultivation of our lives....

Aristopher

Be careful the environment you choose for it will shape you; be careful the friends you choose for you will become like them.

W. Clement Stone

We might first think of our children when reading the above quote, however it is true in our adult lives more so than ever. It is a precious decision to choose our professional advisors and relationships. These choices will make a lasting impression on our character and success.

Aristopher

Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is - his good, pleasing and perfect will.

Romans 12:2

Just a few days ago, my baby daughter Brooke was in a life threatening vehicle accident. ONLY through God's will was she given the opportunity to live and not be taken away from her family at such a young age. God's will is easy to accept when tragedy turns to triumph. I just can't imagine loosing my baby girl. I am so blessed that God's will was merciful for Brooke and our family. I love my children so much, it is times like these that allows me to realize how much God loves His children.

Aristopher

I waited until Spring had Officially arrived to write the 1st Spring thought.

As the air starts to feel warm and we hear the sounds of Spring, are we listening to our family and friends about their needs and wishes? It is my desire this early Spring season to start with a Fresh Spirit and look at our economy with optimism and excitement. The only people that can make a difference in our economy is each of us. Therefore, let's continue to work hard and support each other and this will lead to a positive change in our lives.

Aristopher

Phil 4:13 I can do all this through him who gives me strength. I had a friend send this to me this morning when I was preparing to write the February Blog. As I read through Philippians the following hit home with me and life in general.

Phil 4:12 I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.

No matter what our past, present, or future situation(s) hold, it is contentment through a relationship with Jesus Christ that one must development to sustain their leadership role for their families.

This does not mean God wants us to sit back and accept the negative effects of the economy, as God commanded Adam to tend and work the the Garden in Genesis 2:15. Therefore, let us continue to seek God's guidance, work hard, and be content in knowing that God controls all.

The light and hope of tomorrow is only one sunrise away!!!

Aristopher

And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed.

Luke 2:1

In our time of continued economic frustration, not recovery, taxation continues throughout history to determine business investment decisions. The New Year brings forth another time of decision for our political leaders in the area of taxation. It should be noted that our leaders need to make decisions that correct our short term tragedies, but for once is attached to a long term positive correction plan.

I believe we have followed the verse to tax all the world, but is the proportion within this system fair, equitable, and financially successful for our society?