JOHN, FOR ME, PSALM 146:3-5 IS MORE REAL TO ME THAN ANYTHING OR ANYONE. GOD...I TRUST HIM! THANKS FOR THE SHARING. LOVE, BLESSINGS AND FAITH...JOYCE * HIS INSPIRATIONS

In the old days, in rural America, people never traveled very far, and reputations were gossiped around so that any dishonest behavior quickly traveled throughout the community. Families kept their “black sheep” in check is much as they could for fear of the family reputation. In urban America with constant job change and forced relocation, we don't know our neighbors anymore. Local, village control still exists in some parts of the country, while, the price of freedom is that most of us do not have this structural protection from our extended family and village anymore. Thus we are free to screw up all we can, and we do.

Fortunately, I've found that, in spite of moving a lot and not knowing my neighbors, I've been able to find good, honest people everywhere. Perhaps because I can spot a stinker a mile away. I seldom fall for their talk. Haven't had need to employ a shyster lawyer yet. I am however able to make use of the many community and government regulatory assets out there that help keep the bad guys at bay.

Ron

Amen!

Love ya!

Jane

John,

I remember when I was growing up everybody trusted everybody. Doors were left unlocked, neighbor helped neighbor. Through the years things have changed. Alot of times no one even KNOWS who their neighbor is. So so sad. Life has gone from trust to fear of man.

Love and blessings,
Linda+

Vina and George expressed my feelings very well. Sad that it has to be this way nowadays. Well said, John. God bless.

Politicians do it every day and yet get reelected. A true friend is a gift from God.

George

(Check line 3 to be sure you have the words the way you want them. "The" or "they")

John, this is a reflection of our times. I remember when integrity was the rule and trust was evident. It is still important to those of us who care, but someone lied to us back there about 50 years ago. They said there is no black and white, things are mostly gray and we are to be tolerant of our differences. Judge not lest ye be also judged doesn't mean not to judge at all. Common sense judges or discerns. We still need to discern and things really are black and white. God said. When God said, things were created. We create with what we say too. May we always speak truth and create life with loving kindness. Blessings to you, dear One. Vina