Home Sweet Home

Shoe-Throwing Reporter a Fan of Che

2008-12-16T20:03:00.005-06:00

This appeared in our local paper regarding the Iraqi reporter, Muntadhar al-Zeidi, who threw his shoes at President Bush at a news conference:

"A day after the incident, al-Zeidi's three brothers and one sister gathered in al-Zeidi's simple, one-bedroom apartment in west Bagdad. The home was decorated with a poster of Latin American revolutionary leader Che Guevara, who is widely lionized in the Middle East." -- The Holland Sentinel, Tuesday, December 16, 2008, p. A10.

Are you familiar with Che Guevara? If not, you'd better get acquainted quick. He was an Argentine Marxist revolutionary and hit man for Fidel Castro in the take over of Cuba. Read about him here.

Glen Beck also has a good commentary on this subject on CNN.com called "Commentary: T-shirt depicts 'pathetic and brutal legacy.'"

Don't tell me Marxist communism isn't on the rise around the world and right here among the young, Hollywood elite in the good ol' U.S. of A. I just wonder how many of these young communists voted for Obama in the last election.

Dickens and Liberal Thought

2008-03-07T18:58:00.004-06:00

The kids are reading up on just about all things Dickens here lately. One of them checked out a book at the library called Charles Dickens' Best Stories. In the story called "The Chimes," he ran across a paragraph which sounds eerily familiar:

I do my duty as the Poor Man's Friend and Father; and I endeavour to educate his mind, by inculcating on all occasions the one great moral lesson which that class requires. That is, entire Dependence on myself. They have no business whatever with--with themselves. If wicked and designing persons tell them otherwise, and they become impatient and discontented, and are guilty of insubordinate conduct and black-hearted ingratitude--which is undoubtedly the case--I am their Friend and Father still. It is so Ordained. It is in the nature of things.[1]

Who does that sound like?!?! Someone (or some ones) running for president this year?

[1] Zabel, Morton Dauwen, ed. Charles Dickens' Best Stories. (New York, Hanover House: 1959), p.164.

Book Review

2007-09-10T11:29:00.001-05:00

I just finished reading From Dark to Dawn by Elizabeth Charles (Books on the Path, Barker, Texas, 2003). This is a historical fiction work chronicling the lives of a family personally acquainted with Martin Luther before, during, and after the initial start of the Reformation upon nailing his 95 Thesis to the Wittenburg church door. I love how the author blends history with personal experience. You come away feeling as though you know these characters as friends. It was a real eye opener for me regarding what the nuns and priests of that day faced once they chose to separate from family, loved ones, and society in general in order to live the monastic life. There are times of defeat, despair, triumph, and joy all wrapped up in one volume.

I must warn you, however, there are a number of printing errors which I just had to giggle over sometimes. It doesn't detract from the work itself in any way.

A few of my favorite quotes given by the character named Fritz follow:

p. 205 "God's order is, I think, the State to embrace all men, the Church to embrace all Christian men; and the kernel of the State and the type of the Church is the family." (Hmmm. Something to think about.)

p. 206 "I am a baptized Christian, dedicated to Christ from the arms of my mother, united to Him by the faith of my manhood." (Emphasis mine. Apparently, the author believed that baptized infants were united to Christ upon adult faith in Him, not at their baptism as infants.)

-- Marcia Wilwerding

Prayer Helps the Little Ones

2007-08-21T08:22:00.002-05:00

I've been reading The Complete Works of E.M. Bounds on Prayer for my devotional reading since the first of the year. I am working my way through this book for the second time, for it is just so rich on the subject of prayer and has really inspired me to pray more. I highly recommend it to everyone.

I thought I would share just one thought that I found especially edifying to parents:

"Prayer helps the little ones. The cradle must be invested with prayer. We are to pray for our little ones. The children are now to be brought to Jesus Christ by prayer, as he is in heaven and not on earth. They are to be brought to him early for his blessing, even when they are infants. His blessing descends upon these little ones in answer to the prayers of those who bring them. With untiring importunity are they to be brought to Christ in earnest, persevering prayer by their fathers and mothers. Before they know anything about coming of their own accord, parents are to present them to God in prayer, seeking his blessing upon their offspring and at the same time asking for wisdom, for grace and divine help to rear them that they may come to Christ when they arrive at the years of accountability of their own accord." -- Baker Books. The Complete Works of E.M. Bounds on Prayer. Grand Rapids, Michigan: Baker Books, 1990, pg. 264.

I know that my mother prayed for my sisters and I from before the time we were born, and I truly believe that God is still answering the prayers of my grandmother for her children and grandchildren even though she has long gone on to Heaven. Don't neglect to pray for grown children. They also need His daily blessings.

The Great Scon vs. Scone Debate

2007-01-03T10:36:00.001-06:00

In case you’ve ever wondered how to pronounce this word, scone, here’s a tongue-in-cheek explanation to brighten your day: http://www.planetbods.org/theshed/scone/index.live

I’ll warn you: though this post is humorous, the rest of the site is definitely not from a Christian perspective.

Wm. Jay on "Home" Missions

2006-09-26T14:10:00.001-05:00

A call to "home" missions:

"And oh! let parents awaken, and blend their anxieties and efforts, to bring to Jesus their children. When Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, all the wounded were to obtain cure by looking. But children were bitten, as well as men and women. Had we been there, we should have seen many a father leading along his little daughter to a place of vision; and many a mother, pressing near with her infant son in her arm, and pointing his eyes to catch the shining remedy. So has the Son of Man been lifted up, that whosoever believeth on him should not perish, but have everlasting life--and the young need him; and the sooner they are brought to him the better. The sooner will they be prevented from injuring society: the sooner will they enter on a course of usefulness, during which they will scatter a thousand blessings. If we do good to an old man, it is all-important to himself; but then it goes off with him. Whereas, the good communicated to a child, is not only valuable personally but relatively. It descends from him, and is spread by him, as he rises up and multiplies in life: and the result of the whole cannot be estimated.

"And if we bring them to him, will he reject or despise them?
Let his command determine this--'Feed my lambs.'
Let his conduct decide it--'And they brought young children to him that he should touch them. And his disciples rebuked those that brought them. But when Jesus saw it, he was much displeased, and forbid them not; for of such is the kingdom of God. And he took them up in his arms, put his hands upon them, and blessed them.'

"Let those that have children, and let those that are children, think of this, and be encouraged.

'A flower, when offered in the bud,
Is no vain sacrifice."

"Another flower thus offered, can never arrive at perfection. It must wither and die. But this flower shall live and blossom as a rose. The Redeemer will put it into his bosom; and the fragrance spread through the Church below, and Temple above."

--Morning Exercises (for Sept. 26)
by William Jay (1769-1853)

A Woman of My Generation

2006-09-21T14:15:00.001-05:00

I knew I was a woman of my generation when I came home from the library and really took a good look at the two books I brought home.

Andrew and I went for a quickie library run to Zeeland this afternoon just to pick up some holds for Lydia and I and to get a few books on raising bunnies for Andrew. As I waited for Roo downstairs, I slowly perused the books on display. A couple of them looked interesting, so I sat down with them and read a few pages of each. Andrew was ready to go before I knew it, so I thought I'd just check them out.

As Lydia looked over what I had brought home, I had to chuckle at myself. The two books I chose were Innovation, a brand new, cutting-edge book about "SRI International, the innovators behind the computer mouse, HDTV, robotic surgery, and other world-changing ideas," and The Best of Amish Cooking.

What does it all mean?

Airman Samuel P. Wilwerding

2006-06-01T08:43:00.001-05:00

Whew! What a week and a half! Thanks be to God, there were no illnesses, break-downs, accidents, or major blow-ups. We have so much to be thankful for considering we covered over 3,000 miles! Jonathan didn't get to go because of work, but Les and I, Lydia, Andrew, Grandma Litwiller, and even Tweetie! made the journey to see Sam graduate from AF Basic Military Training.

I got to meet another military mom from Dallas named Mendi whom I met on the MilitaryMoms.net forum. Can you believe it? When we lined up along the street to watch the airmen'’s run, WE WERE RIGHT ACROSS THE STREET FROM EACH OTHER!!!! Only the Sovereign of the Universe could have planned that. We were only eight people out of hundreds of others standing along an 1/8-of-a-mile stretch of street. I do believe we were the only ones holding signs, and I am almost positive that we both got onto the BMT graduation video! Oh, what fun it was!

I got a little panicked, though, when the retreat dismissed, and we couldn't find Sam. They had “borrowed” him from his regular flight in order to fill up one that was thinned out (from recycling, I suppose?). He saw us heading in the wrong direction and made his way to us. I was so relieved!

The weekend with Sam was very, very special. Just as everyone told me, he was totally different, but in a good way. I fully expected that we would be running him from one restaurant after another and seeking out thrill after thrill. He was just so calm. We visited the Alamo and took the River Walk boat ride, had a picnic in Basin Park, and drove around the King William Historic District. At that point, he said, "Well, I'm tired of being a tourist now. Let's go to the hotel." (I found myself wondering, Okay, where have they hidden my son? This is not my son!) He requested pizza, which we ordered delivered to the hotel room that evening, and ice cream, which he ate at least four times over the course of the weekend. But, that was it. Nothing really exotic, exciting, or expensive. (Thank goodness!)

What he did the most, though, was SLEEP. This is very odd for this child who has always been full of nervous energy. He fell asleep at least three times in the van going here and there, twice in the hotel, and once on the picnic table Sunday afternoon! (He even left a big slobber!) We took a picture each time he fell asleep just to prove it. I intend to make a special Air Force scrapbook for him and can't wait to put those photos in. We just let him sleep as much as he wanted to. I don't care how old he is, he will always be my baby, and I loved just watching him sleep.

He used to be so wild and crazy. There was no foolishness about him this time. He was sober, mature, yet pleasantly good natured. He told us funny stories, and we laughed a lot together, but it was real fun not foolishness. I still stand in awe of the man he is becoming. He has always been a handsome child; now he is beautiful inside and out. These fiery trials just helped to melt away the dross so that the silver could shine forth.

The saddest part, of course, was saying good-bye. We had to leave him off at the Reception Center according to the rules, and he had to walk back to the squadron alone. Dad swung the van around the block, though, for one last wave. It broke my heart to see his head was down for the first time that weekend. I was almost afraid he wouldn't see us, but finally he looked up and waved back. It still makes me cry to think of it.

I had a troubling dream the night before last. I dreamed that Sam and I were at the BMT graduation and got into an argument. He turned and walked off into the crowd. I went after him crying and calling out his name because I thought he was going back to his squadron where I wouldn't be able to see him again. Then, he approached me smiling and assured me that he would not do such a thing.

I know it was just a dream, but I still woke up crying. I just couldnÂ’t stop crying. Les was even getting a little concerned about me. I assured him later that this is just how I have to work through the emotions of this change in our lives. After we left him off in Peoria for basic training, it took me a full week to recover fully from the grief and stress. I'’m sure I'’ll feel better after I hear from him from tech school.

Sam left for Wichita Falls at about 3:30 am on Memorial Day. We went to visit our friends, the Shamburgers, in Coleman, Texas, the same day and spent the night there. So, it just so happened that we passed Sheppard AFB on Tuesday. It was very sad to know he was there and not be able to stop in for one last hug before the long trek home.

As for San Antonio, Texas, it was a pretty nice place when I first got there, and I really enjoyed the Alamo, but now I have no desire to ever go back. It's nothing personal; it's just the place where I had to leave Sam, and I am afraid that I will always associate it with that.

If it weren'’t for MilitaryMoms.net and "Surviving Air Force Basic Training Graduation"” (usmilitary.about.com/od/airforcejoin/a/afbasicgrad.htm), I would not have known what to expect or what to do. It was a comfort to know, also, that so many folks were praying for us.

"“For by thee I have run through a troop; and by my God have I leaped over a wall."” Ps. 18:29....
and survived air force basic training graduation!!!

--–Marcia Wilwerding

Sam Update: Letters Home

2006-05-16T12:26:00.001-05:00

We've received a few letters and phone calls within the past two weeks, some of which I would like to share with those who are interested.

24 April 2006

"...keep writing; it's the only encouragement I have for the most part. The TI's (training instructors) are very oppressive. (What did he expect?!)

"I did get one compliment today at chow. When we leave chow hall we have to give a salute to the TI and do a facing movement and walk out. Usually everyone gets screamed at and just shakes it off. But, today I did my salute and right-face and while I was walking out the TI said, "Good, very sharp. I like that." It took everything I had to maintain my military bearing and not go running, screaming, and throwing my hands in the air as I was so excited. (Hm. I never got that response when I gave him a compliment!)

"I stopped counting (group flight) punishment push-ups...three days ago. The last count was 300. I've never had to do any personally for my own mistakes, but most of the flight has. We don't do normal push-ups; we do some and then go half-way down and hold it until we don't feel we can take it anymore and then we do some more. It's pure torture. Half the fly was crying out in agony today while we were doing them. I'm glad I got into shape (before going in). It's not quite as bad for me..."

I had written a spoof form letter after not hearing from him for the first three weeks. When he finally got it, he not only filled it in and sent it back to me, he asked me to send him another one since it was quicker to write, answered all the questions I had, and gave him more time to write other things. In the quotes below, the italicized parts are the answers he wrote in.

30 April 2006

"Dear Mom, Dad, Jonathan, Lydia, and Andrew:

"Hope all are well. I am doing better every day. I am averaging 5-7 hours of sleep per night, and the food is great..."

"In my spare time I like to (fill in): What spare time? I have to read my Bible after lights out with my flashlight when the TI leaves. A lot of people do that."

"The most difficult part about bootcamp has been (fill in): Lack of sleep: being tired all the time; but I'm getting used to it."

"Some of the things I'd like to do for graduation week include:
[x] Alamo [x] River Walk [x] Other: eat at good restaurants. I'm sweets deprived. I think I need some ice cream." (For a real giggle, read the article entitled "Surviving Air Force Basic Training Graduation" at this link: http://usmilitary.about.com/od/airforcejoin/a/afbasicgrad_4.htm. It is uncanny that Sam should refer to eating ice cream. He did not read this article before he left!)

He had Warrior Week last week, and I am anxious to hear how that went. It was difficult to not hear from him on Mother's Day, but each time I thought of him I prayed for him. Then, I prayed for the other three and thanked my God for the most beautiful, wonderful four children in the whole world that any couple could be blessed with.

Samuel Update: Into the Wild Blue Yonder

2006-04-17T13:38:00.001-05:00

Well, Samuel is now at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas, just beginning his first full week of bootcamp. We got our first brief phone call from him Saturday night. I only had time to get his address, then Dad took the phone, and it was over. At least I got his address! Those of you who know us and would like to write to Sam can contact me by mail, phone, or e-mail ( I can't give it out publicly for obvious reasons). He needs all the support he can get right now. Keep it positive and encourage him to do a good job and make us proud.

He needs spiritual encouragement as well. Sam is in a crisis of faith right now. We hope and pray that the Lord may use this time as a springboard of faith for him. It's not what he knows, but Who He knows that counts.

We had a great week with Sam before he left for San Antonio. It took Lydia, Andrew, and I (Marcia) eleven hours to totally clean both the upstairs and downstairs apartments in Peoria, pack the rest of Les and Sam's stuff, and move it to Mom's in Minier. That was the worst part, of course. Then, we got to have fun. We even went to Omaha, Nebraska, to see Grandma Wilwerding. Once we got back to Holland there was a lot of bowling and bawling. I tried not to let him see too much bawling, however, since we wanted our last time together to be a positive memory for him.

There have been plenty of tears since then, however. Getting the call on Saturday really helped, and I've been writing letters every day just waiting for his address. It is difficult being apart from him, but I still have a peace in my heart that he is doing what he was made to do. He thrives on structure (which we rarely had in our "relaxed" homeschool) and knowing what comes next. He is a born leader and takes pride in a job well done. He also has a deep sense of patriotism and justice and isn't afraid to stand for what is right. I just can't weep for very long when I consider these things.

We covet your prayers for Sam most of all. I found a website called MilitaryMoms.net which has been helpful. If anyone knows of any other Christian sites for military families, we'd love to hear about them. Also, we'd appreciate any information you can give concerning our trip to Sam's bootcamp graduation the third week of May. If we can save enough to finance the trip, we'll go. (You wouldn't believe how much we can save when we have this sweet "carrot" in front of us! -- eBay and Half.com sales, saving pocket change and rebates, bottle and can deposits, stray bills in the laundry pockets, yard sale, you name it. When we get back, we'll start on a piano fund!) So, if you've ever been to San Antonio, let us know of any good places to take Sam for his town pass. Also, we'd like to know of any routes to take and routes to avoid between Michigan and Texas.

More updates to come.

--Marcia

Favorite Quote of the Week

2006-02-13T08:06:00.001-06:00

I just had to giggle when I read this quote this week:

"Businesses are begun when creative people have a moment of insanity."

I do bookkeeping for a dear friend of mine, Jan Haglund, and I am keenly aware of the frustrations she faces every day trying to get her business up and running smoothly. One thing we've learned is that a point-of-sale (check-out scanning capability) is not nearly as easy to set up and run as the salesman says it will be. Hah! Now, Jan is hearing from other business owners that it takes a minimum of three years to work the bugs out. Perhaps this isn't true for everyone, but Jan is beginning to think they are right.

What makes this quote so funny is that Jan is a very creative person. She makes original artistic designs and puts them on clothing and accessories to sell in her shop in South Haven, Michigan (The Beach House). Jan has said it a million times that she wants to get the business going smoothly enough that she can get back to doing what she does best, being creative. For right now, though, insanity reigns most days.

Run, Hillary, Run!

2006-01-04T21:08:00.001-06:00

A dear friend of ours at church, Jeff Haglund (and old high school chum of the real Robin Williams), overheard someone wondering about a bumper sticker they saw which read, "Run, Hillary, Run!"

The guy said, "It must have been a Democrat; because, if it was a Republican, it would have been on the front bumper."

Tee-hee-hee!

"Shock and Awe" News Flash

2005-12-22T07:24:00.002-06:00

Well, he's gone and done it now--our eighteen-year-old,

Sam, has joined the Air Force!

His daddy always said that the military would be the best thing for him. Sam just couldn't see how he could afford his education, and he lacked the discipline to apply himself to both work and go to school. I agree that this is a good alternative for Sam. He thrives on structure, which we never had much of in our "relaxed home school."

When he called and told me, I just busted out laughing uncontrollably. I couldn't help it. I even had to lay the phone down for a spell and "get a-hold of" myself. When I told his siblings, Lydia looked all the world like she would cry and Andrew was elated (he celebrated by immediately getting all his toy guns out and lining them up on his bed!).

Children's Museum

Omaha, Nebraska, 1990

The recruiters were really impressed with Sam's initial test scores. The test he'll take when he goes up to Chicago (Wed., Dec. 28) is not even as difficult as the one he took when he signed up, so he should score fairly high. Sam would like to be a pilot and hopes to attend officer's school. We'll see. You know how the military is. Once you join, you'll go where they want you to go, and you'll be what they want you to be--and NO BACK-TALK!!!! They said that his 20 college credits would merit him an extra stripe going in. The recruiters also warned him that, if he didn't want to go to Iraq, not to join. But, Sam's willing to go.

Sam with Ben Campbell
and some fellow "troopers"
Chief's game, Peoria, Illinois

I wouldn't have taken this very well a year ago. But, I was listening to a talk radio program over our lunch hour one day and a recruiter called in.

"What's the #1 reason why young people won't join the military today?" the host asked him.

His reply struck me to the heart. "Their parents."

At the dinner table that evening, I tearfully confessed to my children that I had been selfish in not being willing to offer even one of my sons in service for the cause of our freedoms. I am so glad that God prepared my heart for this. Not only do I merely acquiesce to this decision, I embrace it with a peace that passes all understanding.

Christmas 1988

Ellisville, Illinois

Many have expressed that they know that God can keep him safe. I do not put my trust in that. I trust the Lord that Sam's life is in His hands. My greatest concern is for the condition of his soul. I warned him about the manifold tempations of the military life and implored him to keep his body pure for his future wife. Just as the recruiter did, I told him to "keep his nose clean" and stay away from those who would sidetrack his success. I would rather have him die "in the Lord" on the battlefield abroad than to live "in the flesh" at home. Please pray for Sam on this regard.

"Partners in Crime"
Jonathan and Sam
Ellisville, Illinois, 1989

By this one decision, not of my own, I am inducted into a sisterhood of mothers across time and space which includes the like of Sisera's mother, the enemy of Israel (Judges 5:28); both King David's mother and his sister, Zeruiah, who had three warrior sons: Joab, Abishai, and Asahel; also, Mary Ball Washington, mother of our Founding Father, George Washington; the mothers of both Lee and Grant of our Civil War; and every mother represented in the Long Grey Line of West Point. Even Cindy Sheehan and I share this common bond: we have each had a son who enlisted in the armed forces of these United States of America, the greatest country on Earth.

Please write to Sam when you can and encourage him in the Lord. It would bless our hearts, also, if you would remember him with cards, letters, and care packages once he's on full duty. Hopefully, he'll be able to come to Michigan to stay with us for a few months before that time. He'll know more about his itenerary at a meeting with the Air Force staff on Monday, Dec. 19.

A Family-Integrated Baby Shower

2005-12-11T14:48:00.001-06:00

Our family was blessed this month to attend a very unique baby shower. It was one which we believe best represents the whole-family philosophy to which we and many of our friends adhere to.

From left to right:
Susan Townsend (Grandma),
Kevin & Christie (new parents),
Ruth, Naomi, Lydia, and
Jonathan (aunts and uncle)

Clifton and Susan Townsend approached us after an evening service at Zion Chapel to invite us all--that's right, not just the ladies, but all of us--to their daughter and son-in-law's baby shower. They said it would be a potluck and, if anyone had a word of encouragement or advise for the new parents, there would be a time during the shower when that could be shared.

Lots of yummies!

Our church building is very small and has no kitchen or dining facilities. So, we met at the fellowship hall of the retirement community where one of our member's is the manager. His wife and some other ladies decorated the tables with white cloths, streamers, and "baby" figurine candies. The gift table had a large gift basket centerpiece full of goodies with other wrapped gifts and a basket for cards.

Gift table loaded with goodies

Besides the Townsends, their daughter and son-in-law (Kevin and Christie), and six of their other seven children (Matthew, Jonathan, Nathaniel, Ruth, Naomi, Lydia, and Martha--ha! I remembered them all!), most of our little congregation was there, including three of our five never-married singles. Many singles I know have a tendency to avoid baby showers, wedding showers, and weddings in general because they have never been married nor borne children and are not content with their calling to singlehood. Yet, there were our precious singles all well represented and blessing us with their presence. God does, indeed, set the "solitary in families" (Ps. 68:6). There really was a spirit of family at this baby shower. There were even lost people there who attend our church regularly. May their hearts hunger for the true family of God and lead them to repentance.

One of our dear singles: Beverly Kronemeyer
Also know as "God's Gift to the Church"

After we ate, Pastor Timmerman gave a short devotional and charge to the mom- and dad-to-be. It is common knowledge that this couple does not profess Christ, so the devotional was one which centered around an appeal to their souls to come to Christ in order to begin a godly home as they bring a new soul into their family. The grandfather, Clifton, also exhorted them to come to Christ as their first step in becoming parents. One after another stood in turn to give their encouragement. A few of us reminded them of the struggles they would encounter being parents and that their only place to turn in those times would be to their Creator. One and another encouraged Mom to stay home with the children and not to bend to the philosophies of the world on child rearing. The final testimony was of a mother who was in a similar situation of soul when she was expecting her first child. It was, in fact, that situation that God used to draw her to Christ. It was all very good and a great blessing to be a part of.

The Saga Continues

2005-11-17T14:52:00.001-06:00

Wow, how quickly things can change! We still haven't found enough employment for me, nor any employment for Les. However, we have been able to purchase a double-wide mobile home with a down payment from the Minonk sale proceeds and Jonathan's financing. Since we are convinced that it is God's will for us to live here, we have decided to go ahead and take advantage of the blessings this particular property affords.

154 Lindy Court

The children and I were driving around the mobile home park where Jonathan lives, checking out the community center and looking to see if there were any homes for sale that would fit what we needed. We had nearly gone over the whole park when I spotted a cul-de-sac on the last street.

Looking out from the front porch.

Lo and behold, on the very end was a double-wide for sale. Now, this wasn't just any double-wide. This was a double-wide on a double lot with, not only a stream on the side, but TWO PONDS!!!; one across the street and one on the far side of an open field in back. The only neighbors were another double-wide on the north side and a single one kitty-corner across the street. Both these properties looked well-maintained, and I was encouraged to see lace valances at the windows of the one next door.

We called the realtor and had a look at it along with Les and Sam who just happened to be visiting that weekend.

The pond across the field.

First, we followed the realtor through the laundry room (pantry on the left, water heater new in 2004, furnace installed in 2003, cabinets between the appliances and above them with a rod between, washer and dryer, not included).

Then, as we stepped into the kitchen, our eyes were drawn upward to the vaulted ceiling. In the opposite corner of the room was a free-standing island counter with cabinets above and below. To the right were the stove (included), sink, and dishwasher (new 2005; included--and free water to boot!!!) with cabinets above and below. To the left were the refrigerator (included), microwave (not included, but we have a new one of our own), and more cabinets above and below.

The open doorway to the left led to a hall with a closet and then to the entry of the master suite. The suite included a large walk-in closet and bathroom with a walk-down garden tub and shower. Niiiiiice!

Back through the hall, we entered the large living area which had a wood-burning fireplace in the far corner (has a blower to send heat into the living room). The entry door to the left led to one of three decks, the others being off the laundry room entrance and off the side porch (I'll tell you more about "the porch" later). The vaulted ceilings had decorative beams which added to the charm of that room in particular (lace valance and all window treatments included; carpet looked new, but installed seven years ago--must not have had children, pets, or messy people like me!).

A hallway across the living room from the master suite led to another full bath with shower, linen closet, one large bedroom, and one small bedroom, both with closets. It occurred to me that this would make a perfect "grandma quarters" with one room serving as a sitting room and the other as a bedroom.

Side yard looking from four-season room.

Back through that hall and to the left was the diningroom which opened off of the living room. We were delighted to find a built-in, lighted hutch with butterfly-motif etched glass. This pattern was also in a glass panel in the master bath between the toilet and sink.

Through some sliding glass doors on the far side of the dining area was a three-season porch added in 1995. It looked nearly new. Off this porch was the other deck which I told you about, just big enough to hold a grill on one end and a few chairs on the other.

The four-season room looking from the stream.

The side yard faced the stream while directly across the street was the large pond, which I suspect is stocked with fish. There were towering evergreen trees here and there in the yard and well-established perennial landscaping including hosta, evergreen ground cover, other small trees, bushes, and plants, and a blooming rose bush in the corner of a split-rail fence.

The stream facing east.

However, the most glorious discovery of all were three lilac bushes. When we left the property in Minonk, I said good-bye to my lovely lilac bushes, never expecting to ever live where I would be able to enjoy them again. ( Psa. 139:17, 18a: "How precious also are thy thoughts unto me, O God! How great is the sum of them. If I should count them, they are more in number than the sand... ) As we were looking over the yard, the children scampered off down a grass lane which ran along the stream and found wild grapes. (Mmmmm, those make the best jam )

The stream facing west.

We also found a cute little shed, a central air unit (new in 1999), a burn barrel (we like to burn our paper), and the other pond situated on the far side of a spacious field of grass. (Lots of room for future grandbabies to romp and play--with supervision, of course; we don't want anyone drowning!!!)

To top it all off (literally), the roof was replaced just last year Even the windows are all in good shape. Pray tell, what more could we ask?

After much prayer and consideration, Les gave the all clear to go ahead and get it. We close on Dec. 10 and the current owner, an elderly lady, has until Dec. 31 to be out. Lord willing, we will begin the new year as official "Michiganders!"

Everyone else who has seen this home and where it is located just can't get over how nice it is for only $25,000 (negotiated down from $32,900). Of course, living in a mobile home park has a monthly lot rent. However, this one is at least $100.00 a month cheaper than any other park in this area. With a hefty down payment from part of the proceeds from the sale of our Minonk home, our housing costs, including lot rent, will be less than $400 a month. This is nothing short of a miracle, friends, when you consider that the cheapest rent in the poorest, crime-infested neighborhood in this area averages over $700 a month. Plus, the water and garbage pickup are free! Those expenses alone made up at least $50 a month back in Minonk. According to the owner, the heating costs averaged $150 a month last year during the cold months (at least six months up here). If we are able to use the fire place with a blower and turn the thermostat down at night, we figure we can bring those costs down, as well.

Rejoice with us, friends and loved ones, and pray that the Lord would continue to open doors for employment here. There are several leads and more opportunities every day in the paper. We just have to wait for the Lord'’s will.

More updates as they unfold. If interested, enter your email address in the ChangeAlarm at the top of this page. You'll be alerted by email when we'’ve added to this blog.

Home (?) At Last

2005-10-23T16:00:00.001-05:00

We have officially landed in Holland, Michigan. Lydia, Andrew, and I (Marcia) are moved in with our oldest son, Jonathan, in his two-bedroom trailer. It hasn't been easy, but the Lord is giving us more wisdom every day. It's been good for us to downsize. Sometimes we have the overwhelming urge to simplify our lives, but don't have the motivation. Try moving from a 1500 sq.ft. home into a 700 sq.ft. trailer!

Les and Sam are sharing an apartment which they are renting from a Christian widow that we've known for over 15 years. It has been a blessing for her and for us. Les is still working at Heartland Parking to generate income for the life change, and Sam is working at the A.C. Home in Roanoke and attending I.C.C. in East Peoria.

Les has finally decided to use the proceeds from the sale of our home to go back to school and learn a marketable trade. There have been ideas floating around from electronics to truck driving. He's still in the research stages. However, it is imperative that I go back to work. This has been an agonizing decision, especially with children still homeschooling, but one which must be made now while we still have the opportunity to make this life change. I will need your prayers as I search this week. I already have a part-part-time job with a woman who owns a clothing store on the Lake. I will be her bookkeeper. Hopefully, I can fill in the extra hours with temp. work. If nothing materializes, I'll try doing typing at home. There are a lot of colleges and small businesses in this area, so I believe that I can find plenty of work. We need your prayers.

As soon as I'm settled into some gainful employment Les can quit Heartland and sign up for classes up here somewhere. Can't wait to get him at least within the same state!!!! Of course, we'll have to find larger quarters at that point--another matter of prayer. Pray also that Sam would have wisdom about whether or not to move up here, too. We miss him, too.

More updates on the way!

Marcia Wilwerding

Our Grand Adventure!

2005-09-26T07:55:00.001-05:00

Our family is making an incredible life change. We have sold our house (the closing is this Friday morning -- only 4 days!!!!!). Les and Sam have gotten an apartment in Peoria so that Sam can still go to school (ICC), and Les can keep working at Heartland Parking (previously National Garages). Lydia, Andrew, and I are heading up to Holland, Michigan, to put in some applications/resumes to look for work during October/November. If nothing comes up, we'll just assume that the Lord has plans for us here in Illinois, and we'll look to resettle here. Les will still need to get another job since he won't be able to do the work he does now for much longer. He's been pounding pavement for 20+ years (now walking up to 10 miles a day!!!!), and it's taking a toll on his frame. The Lord knows our need, and He's already been where we're going. We put our trust in Him alone. Please pray for us when you think of us.

The Wilwerdings

Gleanings

2005-09-08T11:13:00.001-05:00

HOME VIRTUES

The beauty of home is harmony.
The security of a home is loyalty.
The joy of a home is love.
The plenty of a home is in Children.
The rule of a home is service.
The comfort of the home is in contented spirits.
The make of a home, of a real human home, is God Himself,
the same who made the stars and built the world.

The Christian home is the Master's workshop
where the processes of character molding are
silently, lovingly, faithfully, and successfully carried on.

Anyone can build an altar;
it requires God to provide the flame.
Anybody can build a house;
but we need the Lord for the creation of a home.

Children can have no greater inheritance than believing parents.

--Dorthea FLNBT

WHO OTHER THAN A MOTHER

Who other than a mother...
...knows what the world looks like at 2 AM, 3 AM, 4 AM?
...and feels like she will never again get a full night's sleep?

Who other than a mother...
...is able to carry a diaper bag, stuffed animal, shopping bag, purse, baby and keys (all in one arm), while keeping the other hand available to unlock the car, open doors, or hold hands with another child?

Who other than a mother...
...can eat peanut butter & jelly for several days in a row, counts fruit snacks as a fruit, and thinks McDonalds (with a playland) is one of the best restaurants in town?

Who other than a mother...
...never goes to sleep at night until each child is checked on, covered up, and kissed?

Who other than a mother...
...is most likely driving a vehicle that is decorated with a car seat or two, empty juice boxes, fruit snack wrappers, a variety of toys and books, and several stale french fries?

Who other than a mother...
...can spend her evening playing Hi-Ho Cheerio!, watching a "Thomas the Train" video or reading "Go, Dog, Go" and know it was time well spent?

Who other than a mother...
...tears up when her 3-year-old, who notices her new lipstick, stops dead in his tracks and says, "Oh, Mommy, you look BEA-U-TI-FUL!"?

Who other than a mother...
...with endless chores of dishes, laundry, and picking up toys, will stop in the middle of these tasks when she hears, "Mommy, come see this!" or "Mommy, will you play with me?"?

Who other than a mother...
...can remember the exact moment her baby smiled for the first time, took her first steps or finally said "Ma-Ma", when she's been saying "Da-Da" for months?

Who other than a mother...
...will worry constantly and pray consistently for her children, and know that the most important thing that she can do for her children is to teach them about God and how much He loves them?

--Beth Gustafson

Gleaned from the July/August 2005 issue of The Voice of Victory Magazine, edited by Evangelist Boyd Halford, 44025 - 198th Street, Livonia MO 63551.

Katrina

2005-09-02T09:00:00.001-05:00

We have been watching the coverage of the Katrina aftermath on the morning and evening news these past few days. Who cannot help but weep at the suffering and frustration of the people still holding onto life in New Orleans and other areas laid waste by this hurricane?

Matt Lauer speaking to Tim Russert this morning on the Today Show asked, "Are those responsible for rescuing these people (in New Orleans) ready for some very hard questions?" He is referring to why the people in New Orleans aren't being rescued or given food and water sooner than they are.

One clue, Matt, is in one sentence glossed over by NBC News last night: Shots were fired on the rescue helicopter and rescue operations were then suspended.

Katie Couric had just spoken with FEMA director, Michael Brown, about this issue. His response was that they must wait for the 30,000 national guard troops to establish order in the City before it would be safe for rescue workers to enter and bring aide.

There will be speculation for many years over who is at fault for the delays in rescue operations in New Orleans. Matt Lauer brought up one of his "hard questions" which pointed the finger at the government for not providing enough funding for the poor in our major cities to have the means to flee in times of impending danger.

No doubt, there are some people in our major cities and elsewhere who, by no fault of their own, have no means of escape in this type of situation. These would include the elderly with no family and the otherwise infirm and family-less. However, there are many more who have set themselves up for disaster by relying on the government in the first place for their sole means of support. Except for Social Security, public aide programs were never meant to be for permanent sustenance. Their purpose is to provide emergency aide during times of hardship. When they are misused and abused, they become a form of slavery all their own. Those who depend on the government for their means of support generally do not get enough to sustain life. Most supplement these cash and food stamp programs with food pantries, commodities, and local shelter handouts. Many of the folks trapped in New Orleans are used to being given "emergency aide." They have been living off of it, most of them, all of their lives.

My husband has been saying (since our years of living in a poor neighborhood in Peoria, Illinois, for seven years) that it wouldn't take long for anarchy to break out if welfare programs were suspended. He said that there would be complete chaos and lawlessness especially in the larger cities. There just wouldn't be enough police to handle the situation.

I'm almost ready to call him a prophet.

Here's an article that was passed on to me that explains this a lot better than I can:
http://tiadaily.com/php-bin/news/showArticle.php?id=1026

--Marcia

Six Marks of Genuine Revival

2005-08-18T08:40:00.001-05:00

Our pastor, Keith Throop (Immanuel Baptist Church, Bloomington, Illinois), gave a stirring message on August 7 entitled Six Marks of Genuine Revival taken from II Kings 22 & 23. This passage records the revival which took place during the reign of Josiah, king of Judah. These are the points as I took them down:

I. Restoration of God's Word as the absolute authority, not only for me, but a desire that others know it, as well. (II Kings 22:8-10; 23:2)

II. A recognition of one's failure to keep the Word accompanied by public confession (II Kings 22:11; II Cor. 7:9-11)

III. Recommitment to obey the Word (II Kings 22:1-3)

IV. Removal of stumblingblocks which lead to sin, not only in our lives, but the lives of others (II Kings 23:4-20) (as seen in how Josiah not only removed the idols in Judah, but also in the Northern Kingdom; not only those under his own reign, but those outside his dominion)

V. Revitalization of true worship both in spirit and in truth (II Kings 23:21-24)

VI. Repentance evidenced by an obedient lifestyle (II Kings 23:25)

This really spoke to my heart and inspired me to pray that God would begin a revival in me. I once heard a preacher say, "Draw a circle in the dust, step into it, and pray that God would begin revival from that circle." Amen!

Keepers of the Springs

2005-08-16T08:39:00.001-05:00

I found a delightful old book in our church library called The Bible's Legacy for Womanhood by Edith Deen (Doubleday & Co., Inc., Garden City, New York, 1969). Here is an excerpt that may stir your thoughts:

"...Homemakers are what the late Peter Marshall calls ‘Keepers of the Springs’ in his delightful sermon in Mr. Jones, Meet the Master (pp. 147-58). He likens them to an ancient custodian who patrolled the hills and wherever he found a spring, he cleaned its brown pool of silt and fallen leaves, of mud and mold, and took away from the spring all foreign matter so that the water which bubbled up through the sand ran down clean and cold and pure.

"(He) says about our days that ‘there never has been a time when there was a greater need for Keepers of the Springs, or when there were more polluted springs to be cleansed. If the home fails, the country is doomed. If the Keepers of the Springs desert their posts or are unfaithful to their responsibilities, the future outlook of this country is black indeed.’

... "‘Men have recognized that womanhood is sacred and a noble thing, that women are of finer clay...are more in touch with the angels of God and have the noblest function that life affords.’ He says ‘our country needs today women who will lead us back to an old fashioned morality, to old fashioned decency, to old fashioned purity and sweetness for the sake of the next generation, if for no other reason.’ And this is the special role, not of ‘beautiful women, smart women, sophisticated women, career women, talented women, divorced women, but of godly women,’ who can ‘come nearer fulfilling their God-given function in the home than anywhere else.’ This noted twentieth-century minister concludes with the thought that it is ‘a greater achievement to establish a Christian home than it is to produce a second-rate novel, filled with filth.’

"He furthermore reminds us that for nineteen hundred years woman has not been equal–she has been superior. It remained, he continues, for the twentieth century ‘to pull her down from the throne and to try to make her like a man,’ a far cry from what the Bible intended...’" (pp. 45-46).

--Marcia

Correction and Clarification

2005-08-12T07:44:00.001-05:00

Let me begin by correcting myself. Yesterday, I said those who opposed my understanding of disciplining children were paedobaptists. The truth is, I don't know for sure what they believe; however, from their comments I would say they are at least sympathetic to that view.

Personally, I don't believe that what one believes about baptism matters in child rearing except whether or not the parents or children believe that discipline administers saving grace. Yet, that may or may not determine how discipline situations are handled.

From my studies so far, it appears there is a distinction made by my detractors between children as children and children as believers. Regardless of whether or not a child is a believer, they are still children and come under the loving authority of their parents, who administer whatever means are necessary according to Scripture to develop their character, even spanking. I agree with the traditional paedobaptists whom I have been citing that spanking is the last resort. I cannot find justification, however, from Scripture, nor from the interpretation of it by these godly men, for excluding spanking from the discipline process.

I once heard a preacher say, "I'll never disagree with you spanking your children. However, I may not approve of why, when, where, or how you do it."

I intend to follow prairie girl's advise to study the "one anothering" of Scripture. Check back for updates on that issue.

--Marcia Wilwerding

OPC on Spanking

2005-08-11T16:09:00.001-05:00

Since those who are contradicting me are of the paedobaptist position, I thought I'd look around and see what traditional paedobaptists believe about "the rod," the passages in Proverbs dealing with physical punishment, and the use of spanking as part of the discipline process. I am finding that the position taken by these women is not consistent with the mainstream nor historical paedobaptists. I'll be posting a few of my findings.

"Does the OPC (Orthodox Presbyterian Church) have a specific policy about spanking children?

The OPC doesn't have papers generally relating to various social matters unless they are formally and officially dealt with by a General Assembly (the highest ecclesiastical court of the church). But the OPC is not indifferent to such issues. Our primary standard of faith and practice is the Holy Scriptures (the Bible). And our doctrinal standards are the Westminster Confession of Faith and Catechisms which teach that system of faith and morals taught in Scripture.

SPANKING CHILDREN: The Bible is quite clear on this subject. "He who withholds his rod hates his son, but he who loves him disciplines him diligently" (Proverbs 13:24). "Do not hold back discipline from the child, although you strike him with the rod, he will not die. You shall strike him with the rod and rescue his soul from Sheol [hell]" Proverbs 23:11-13). The writer of Hebrews quotes Proverbs 3:11-12 and applies it to God's fatherly dealing with His children: "And you have forgotten the exhortation which is addressed to you as sons, My son, do not regard lightly the discipline of the Lord, nor faint when you are rebuked by Him; for whom the Lord loves He disciplines, and scourges every son whom He receives. It is for discipline that you endure; God deals with you as sons; for what son is there whom his father does not discipline? But if you are without discipline, of which all have become partakers, then you are illegitimate children and not sons" (Hebrews 12:5-8). (This latter verse means that those who reject God's providential dealings with them evince an unbelieving spirit.)

I realize that it is dangerous to spank children publicly nowadays. It is counted "child abuse." And severe, bodily-injurious spanking or whipping is child abuse. Parents ought NEVER to take out their anger on their children. But "hurting" their children's pride and hurting their bodies are two different things. Up to the point of bodily injury, children ought to be disciplined according to their degree of disobedience, willfulness, or defiance; the Bible teaches that bodily discipline is legitimate, but only if done in love, never in anger. What the practice of OPC households is, I cannot answer. But, if you read the Scriptures and put it all together, it makes sense.

So we don't spend time in our church courts arguing about matters that are quite clear in the Word of God... (LE)"

--Marcia

"The Rod" Pt. 3

2005-08-10T07:06:00.001-05:00

Pro 29:15 The rod and reproof give wisdom: but a child left to himself bringeth his mother to shame.

"Parents, in educating their children, must consider, 1. The benefit of due correction. They must not only tell their children what is good and evil, but they must chide them, and correct them too, if need be, when they either neglect that which is good or do that which is evil. If a reproof will serve without the rod, it is well, but the rod must never be used without a rational and grave reproof; and then, though it may be a present uneasieness both to the father and to the child, yet it will give wisdom. Vexatio dat intellectum--Vexation sharpens the intellect. The child will take warning, and so will get wisdom. 2. The mischief of undue indulgence: A child that is not restrained or reproved, but is left to himself, as Adonijah was, to follow his own inclinations, may do well if he will, but if he take to ill courses, nobody will hinder him; it is a thousand to one but he proves a disgrace to his family, and brings his mother who fondled him and humoured him in his licentiousness, to shame, to poverty, to reporach, and perhaps will himself be abusive to her and give her ill language."

Comments:
1. The importance of the use of the rod in its literal sense when warranted is here given.
2. He admits here that a child who was not restrained may turn out well, but the "odds" are against him.
3. Again, the rod is only part of correcting ill behavior.

Jonathan's Blog

2005-07-28T07:46:00.001-05:00

Check out our oldest son's blog site at http://wilwerding.blogspot.com/. (This kid is a DEEP thinker.)

Jonathan lives in Holland, Michigan, and is closing in on the first year of a two-year apprenticeship in laying ceramic tile. He attends Zion Chapel in Holland under the pastorate of Pastor Bernie Timmerman.

My prayer for Jonathan:

God Give Us Men

God give us men. The time demands

Strong minds, great hearts, true faith and willing hands

Men whom the lust of office does not kill;

Men whom the spoils of office cannot buy;

Men who possess opinions and a will;

Men who have honor; men who will not lie;

Men who can stand before a demagogue

And (condemn) his treacherous flatteries without winking

Tall men, sun-crowned, who live above the fog

In public duty and in private thinking!

For while the rabble with their thumb-worn creeds,

Their large professions and their little deeds

Mingle in selfish strife; lo! Freedom weeps!

Wrong rules the land, and waiting Justice sleeps!

--J. G. Holland

Be Strong!

2005-07-24T17:05:00.000-05:00

Be strong!
We are not here to play,--to dream, to drift.
We have hard work to do and loads to lift.
Shun not the struggle,--face it; 'tis God's gift.

Be strong!
Say not the days are evil. Who's to blame?
And fold the hands and acquiesce,--O shame!
Stand up, speak out, and bravely, in God's name.

Be strong!
It matters not how deep intrenched the wrong,
How hard the battle goes, the day how long;
Faint not,--fight on! Tomorrow comes the song.

--Maltbie D. Babcock, D.D.

2Ch 15:7: "Be ye strong therefore, and let not your hands be weak for your work shall be rewarded."

Sage Advise for Training Infants

2005-07-20T07:51:00.000-05:00

This post under revision. Please check back later for the revised edition.

Anti-Gun Argument Shoots Itself in the Foot

2005-07-19T07:59:00.000-05:00

In the second amendment of the constitution it states, "–the right of the people to keep and bear arms, shall not be infringed." What does this mean? It means that the right of the people to keep and bear arms should not be infringed. One of the very basic rights that was granted to us is our right to defend ourselves by any means necessary, and this includes by use of firearms. And, I believe the right to ‘bear arms’ is the right to take them with you, but there are many who disagree.

Albeit, regardless of what the constitution says, you can come to the same conclusion that I believe the founding fathers had come to well over 200 years ago just by using common sense. Government-implicated gun confiscation is a major victory for criminals. Not surprisingly, most, if not all, criminals are afraid of citizens and guns. Especially, when the two mix. A recent study done by the Justice Department shows that 74% of felons polled agreed that one reason they avoid houses when people are at home is that they ‘fear being shot during the crime.’ Sixty percent of felons polled agreed that ‘a criminal is not going to mess around with a victim he knows is armed with a gun,’ and 57% of felons polled agreed that ‘criminals are more worried about meeting an armed victim than they are about running into the police.’
One thing that guns do, is they even the playing field between the stronger and weaker parties. No matter how strong an attacker may be, all it takes is for the victim to fire the first shot and the battle is over. This has got to be encouraging for women who are typically not as strong as men. A woman with a gun is fully capable of defending herself against the strongest of men.
In the age of "closing the gap between the genders," guns may attain much significance. A poll conducted by worldnewsstand.net shows that of the 2.5 million self-defense cases committed each year, as many as 200,000 are by women defending themselves against sexual abuse. Not only will a woman carrying a gun be on an even playing field with an attacker, there is a good chance that she will have a decisive advantage. Another study done by worldnewsstand.net reveals that in 89.6% of violent crimes committed against women, the offender is not carrying a gun, and only 10% of rapists carry a gun. This should be welcome news for women, yet ironically, the ones who most vehemently support the equality of the sexes are commonly the same ones who will advocate gun restriction.

Some say if people are allowed to own and carry guns that the amount of accidental death incurred by guns will rise. To investigate this proposition further, and to dig deeper into the matter on the whole, I would like to present some facts gathered from a 15-year study done by Dr. John Lott of the University of Chicago. The study sought to find out what happens when states adopt the "right to carry" laws. These are laws that enable law-abiding citizens who have no criminal record to carry concealed weapons. Using F.B.I. data from all 3,045 U.S. counties in the ten states, Dr. Lott discovered that there actually was a 0.5% rise in accidental firearm deaths.

On the contrary though, the residents of these ten states could rest a little easier thanks to this law because during Dr. Lott’s research he also discovered that there was a 5 percent decline in rapes, a 7 percent decline in aggravated assaults, and an 8 percent decline in murder. That is just one more accidental death, but 316 fewer murders, 939 less rapes, and 14702 less aggravated assaults in these states annually. I do not believe that by allowing citizens to exercise their second-amendment right to its full extent, it will eliminate crime. As the facts show though, what it will do is, it will decrease the level of crime. The best way to prove this is by comparing two cities, one that has the right to carry law and one that does not. Washington, D.C. has some of the most strict gun laws in the nation. Arlington, on the other hand, just across the river from it, is in Virginia, a state that has some of the most loose gun laws in the nation. In 1997 an observation was made to see what the murder rates were in these two cities. The results were shocking. In the nation’s capital where the gun laws are almost oppressive it was 56.9 murders per every 100,000 people. Across the Potomac river, in Arlington which is awash in guns, the murder rate was just 1.6 per 100,000. These facts are also consistent in other states. A poll done by a Chicago polling web site (chicago.craigslist.org) found that in states that had the right to carry law the amount of murders was 86% less, and violent crimes were 80% less on average.
Even with these kinds of compelling facts there are still those who argue. They say, "when there is a law against carrying concealed weapons, the police are able to arrest anyone carrying a weapon. And, this allows them to arrest criminals before they can do any harm." I have actually heard this argument myself, and my conclusion is that it is an ill-conceived thought. How often do the police go up to someone and search them without a warrant? There has to be some actual reason before the police will search someone. In conclusion, regardless of what laws there might be against carrying concealed weapons, lawless citizens will carry them, and the police probably will not find out that they have them until after it is too late. So, my question is, "why should criminals be the only ones carrying concealed weapons?".

The final argument issued in this debate is the question of wether or not an average citizen can be trusted to know who to shoot. The answer to this question is, yes at least most of the time. Newsweek Magazine reported in 1993 that ‘only 2% of civilian shootings involved an innocent person mistakenly identified as a criminal.’ The ‘error rate’ for the police, however, is 11%, more than five times as high. (I am not attacking the police here. I do realize that the police have to take action whenever they feel threatened, and sometimes this does include shooting someone for making the wrong move wether criminal or not.) And thither, it can be noted that citizens shoot and kill at least twice as many criminals– I did say criminals– as police do every year (1,527 to 606).

Furthermore, it is stupid to presuppose that since guns are used for crime, they should not be allowed to be carried at will by anyone because someone may abuse their right by using it for criminal purposes. As we have already seen, there is no way to get guns out of the hands of criminals. Even in the states where it is illegal to carry concealed weapons, obviously the criminals still have them. But, apart from the sensible aspect, there is one other thing that must be considered. Is it fair to punish everyone for what only some people do?

Just think of the foreign countries of the world that punish thievery by cutting off the hands of the thieves. Although we would never allow such cruel barbaric torture here in America, it would be similar in legal nature to not allowing a criminal to carry a gun who has committed a violent crime. There is nothing wrong with that. In a lot of places in the United States though, even the law-abiding citizens who have never thought about doing a crime are restricted from carrying a gun supposedly to prevent violent crimes. To understand how absurd this type of law is, consider that it would be like a third-world country having the hands of all their citizens cut off to prevent thievery.

Not only is this type of proposition unfair it also seems quite ill-conceived when you consider the chances of it actually working. Though I do have to admit that cutting off everyone’s hands might reduce the amount of theft, the facts show that taking guns out of the hands of innocent civilians does the exact opposite of what it claims to accomplish. And, the reason is simple. When you make it illegal for the average citizen to carry guns, it makes them more vulnerable because, indubitably then, the only people who will have them will be those who ignore the law. Since criminals, by definition aren’t ones that heed the law, it will not matter to them whether or not it is against the law to own a certain type of weapon. Making it illegal to own guns, or restricting certain guns only puts the law-abiding citizen at more of a disadvantage; it only succeeds in giving criminals a safer working environment. --by Samuel Wilwerding

1. The United States Constitution
2. United States Department of Justice, via Southern Illinois University Law Journal, http://www.saf.org/LawReviews/Kim1.htm
3. World Newsstand, http://www.worldnewsstand.net/today/articles/gunfacts.htm
4. Newsweek Magazine, http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/3032542/
5. Just Facts, http://www.justfacts.com/gun_control.htm
6. Chicago Craig List, http://chicago.craigslist.org/pol/81654118.html

Welcome to our new blog

2005-07-18T08:28:00.000-05:00

Hellooooo! You have reached the weblog for the Wilwerding family which consists of Leslie John (otherwise known as "Dad"), Marcia (Mom), Sam, Lydia, and Andrew (Jonathan is on his own and has his own blog). You will be hearing from each of us at one time or another. I (Marcia) will probably make the most posts, however. Check back tomorrow for new material.