Greetings and Blessings to You!

I've got something special for you... it was a quiet week! LOL!!! Nothing too much happened in my personal life. But there was some loud bangs in the world at large. With the beginning of Black History Month; there were two passings. The first one was the death of a musical icon who was reintroduced to a new generation, by one of her most famous songs. Ms. Etta James passed away the day before her 74th birthday. She was gifted performer, whom I've had the pleasure of seeing performance at least a half dozen times. Her one of a kind voice and delivery of her well known song "At Last", will be remembered throughout the history of American Music. RIP Ms. James.

One of the most influential men in both Black Music & Entertainment, took his life. Don Cornelius, the creator of a show that millions of us watched faithfully, "Soul Train"; Was found by his son, after he called his son and expressed his intention of killing himself. Don Cornelius was a cornerstone of black entertainment and black pride as well. His story will go down in the history books as one of the most important ones of this century.

It was always told to me, as I'm sure to you as well, that taking one's life is a sin. And I believe that it is a sin. So let's establish that right now. But I'm here to tell you that in regards to Mr. Cornelius, there was talk of terminal illness as well; and that brings me to discuss this issue that is often taboo to many.

Now this is a topic that many of us will debate on continuously...however, in the mind of a person who is terminal (been there, done that), there is a different approach to death. And it is speculated that in Mr. Cornelius case, there were issues pertaining to his divorce  from his wife and a possibility of dementia/Alzheimers' disease. There hasn't been any concrete evidence of either... But I wanted to start this discussion because suicide is a topic that many don't speak of. They just say 'don't do it'; 'it's a sin'... But I think before suicide is committed by a person, there are definite paths that can be taken instead of suicide. The problem seems to stem from those around the person who don't act in time to save them for making such a horrid mistake.

From Judaism to Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Jainism, Buddism... They all say basically the same. It is a sin to take your own life, just as it is to take the life of another.

But again, are there signs that we miss in that person? Is there perhaps a laziness on the part of the rest of us to see what is happening in the mind of one who is so troubled? Are there clear and concise actions that loved ones and friends should take when they see something terribly wrong in the lives of their friend or loved one? These are the questions that I've asked myself as well.

When I had colon cancer, and I was told that my time was short, I wondered just how long I would suffer. How long would I be in that state of limbo. Would I just linger until I could no longer take breaths... There were so many questions!

And at the same time, there were thoughts of 'what if'.. well those questions were not asked for long in my case. Because I was convinced that GOD would punish me if I took my own life. But did that keep me from wanting to find some ending to the pain and suffering? No...And I believe that is what happens to many sick people who just believe that they don't want to get to the point where they can no longer function for themselves. A situation where they lose complete control....

My friends, it is a dark subject ... 'suicide'... And I believe that because we live in these times, that perhaps we should talk more openly about it.

I very recently heard this quote... "“We're born alone, we live alone, we die alone. Only through our love and friendship can we create the illusion for the moment that we're not alone.” (Orson Welles)

Is that the key? That we keep from being alone? Is that a way that GOD can prepare you to save the life of another or be saved? Perhaps that is so! Perhaps it is through the eyes and the compassionate heart of another, that a person can detect such urgency in the life of another.

"And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; And patience, experience; and experience, hope.." (Romans 5:3-4 KJV)....But what if that person in pain doesn't know about GOD. What if they don't know about the WORD and it's ability to clarify and comfort the souls of man. What if they don't know about how our pain can be the way to growth of our character?

And let's be clear that sacrificing your life in action to save the life of another is not the same thing. Or is it? "Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends."(John 15:13 KJV)....I don't believe that is suicide and I believe it is clear here that it is not suicide.

If there came to be a situation regarding my grandchildren where I could prevent harm from coming to them, would I put myself before the danger that was coming at them as a sacrifice? YES! Would breathe my last breath for my grandchildren. Not a doubt in my mind about that. But is it suicide!?!?! NO!

Now some would say it's a 'catch 22' kind of thing. But on the contrary my friends...There is a distinct difference between giving up and giving for...lol.

About a year ago, I came to this subject for the fifth time in my life. Death by choice. It is an extremely personal subject for me. The first two times, I cannot speak of, due to the incrimination of others. The third time was my own consideration, while I had had my 2nd colon surgery and was wasting away slowly...Again, it was a gift from GOD that my fate was turned around and my cancer was gone. The fourth time was my Mother and the fifth time was my Father...

My mother, after refusing to go to the hospital with a large growing foreign body in her abdomen, had waited too long. Half of her entire intestines and her bowel had to be removed; but the poison had already entered her bloodstream. She had already had half of her stomach removed due to a malignant tumor, so when this happened, it was apparent that it was too late and that very little could be done. They made it quite clear that we could try, but that her chances were slim to none. So with her being unable to speak to me, it was my decision to keep trying or to let her go. Would I let them continue to probe her and flood her body with drugs and treatments, or would I tell them to make her comfortable and then let her go... My dad..the truest love of my life...fell last year and was unable to sit or walk. He had developed pneumonia, among those other injuries and was sent to a rehab/nursing home... I would come and see horrible things everyday. And I can honestly tell you that the grace of GOD kept me from snatching those that were taking care of him. If I weren't raising these grandchildren, I wouldn't have had any excuses to reach out and make them pay for mistreating my dad... But in the end as his condition became worse, I had to remember what he told me about how he wanted to die and when. I had to be strong enough to grant him his last wish...and let him go. And as I approach the 1st anniversary of his death, I stil cannot control my emotions.  Such a heavy burden that I still have to bear...

These are the questions about death and our choices to embrace death that I too go over again and again in my mind. But should I consider my parents death suicide? Because both had already stated that they didn't want to be sustained by machines. Both had already made me promise to never keep them sustained in the event of a catastrophic illness. Both had made me own the responsibility of their planned deaths.. Is that not suicide?

For the sake of arguement... I came across one particular article that I will share the link for here... http://psychres.washington.edu/syllabiandreadings/spirituality_culture/article_daaleman.pdf

PALLIATIVE CARE: to relieve suffering and improve quality of life for people with serious illnesses.

It was clear to both of my parents that they didn't want to be sustained in any palliative care program. And it was my duty to see to it that they wishes were honored. Does that make me a murderer? I say no, but some may say yes. I say I've gone to GOD and prayed unceasingly for both of my parents, GOD told me to honor my mother and my father; however, in doing so did I defile my obedience to GOD?

I think this and many other questions are important for us to discuss. And I believe that just a short conversation will not do.

But I do want people to think before they make judgement on those, like Mr. Don Cornelius, who thought that they couldn't take it anymore... and they took their lives...Be sure my friends that we put ourselves into play in situations where there might be issues of depression and terminal illness. Make sure that before we have so much to say as to why someone does something of this nature... ask yourself, if you were in their shoes...then what? Can you swear to your own decisions and allegiance to GOD at the same time? I'm sure that this subject can be discussed over and over again. And perhaps it might be GOD telling me that I should try to find a book to review; scriptures research, that deals with this subject and it's relationship in being a person of faith. I know of some psychology books that speak to this subject of euphenism, but not dealing the faith aspects of it as well... If you my friend have any suggestions, then please feel free to use the comment box (on the site only).

"Heavenly Father. I come to YOU, seeking some comfort, as well as some answers. The death of Mr. Cornelius has troubled many including myself. And because we are faithful to YOU, and know that YOU are all knowing... we asked that YOU help us find clarity in understanding the heart and mind of Mr. Cornelius and others who feel that there is no other answer but death. We know that scripture tells us that in cases that we sacrifice ourselves for another, we do not sin against YOU. Help me Father to find more about the sadness of suicide and death that I can share with all who come here. I humble myself before you as I do not have all the answers and need YOUR divine authority and guidance. I asked that YOU have mercy on Mr. Cornelius soul and the souls of those who are lost and confused, including myself. For we are imperfect and in need of YOU. And I pray that all who read this who are in turmoil and strife, and have contemplated giving up; that YOU bless them FATHER with YOUR grace and mercy. Bring calm into their lives so that they may find urgency in YOU, rather than in death. I ask these and all good things in JESUS' name. AMEN"

RIP Don Cornelius...

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During the week, I got an email request from a Mr. Roberts. "please pray that God comforts my nephews. They lost their mother {my sister) before Christmas. Pray for my strength in the Lord to say no. Finally, please pray for my mothers deliverance from dyalisis; thank you. Godspeed"....I do not personally know him but I pray for him and his family's  deliverance from their pain of loss and suffering from illness. I'm sure we all know all too well, the struggle that Mr. Roberts is enduring. Let us lift him and his family in prayer!

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Sending Birthday wishes this week, to my grand-neice Diamond! Auntie loves you! And a big hug and lots of love out to my grandson Frankie as he celebrates his 3RD Birthday!!! Nana Loves You!!

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Here's a little bit of humor to end my message of the week. Remember a little laughter will get you through the roughest of days... Enjoy!

JESUS

A burglar broke into a house one night. He shined his flashlight around, looking for valuables when a voice in the dark said,

'Jesus knows you're here.'

He nearly jumped out of his skin, clicked his flashlight off, and froze.

When he heard nothing more, after a bit, he shook his head and continued.

Just as he pulled the stereo out so he could disconnect the wires, clear as a bell he heard

'Jesus is watching you.'

Freaked out, he shined his light around frantically, looking for the source of the voice.

Finally, in the corner of the room, his flashlight beam came to rest on a parrot.
    
'Did you say that?' he hissed at the parrot.

'Yep', the parrot confessed, then squawked, 'I'm just trying to warn you that he is watching you.'

The burglar relaxed. 'Warn me, huh? Who in the world are you?'

'Moses,' replied the bird.

'Moses?' the burglar laughed. 'What kind of people would name a bird Moses?'

'The kind of people that would name a Rottweiler,,,, Jesus.'

"Jesus!!!!"

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Until next week, I pray that you all have a great and blessed week. That you find what works for you and yours and then bring it and all your desires to the Lord, your GOD! HE will work it out for you!!!

God Bless!!
RedSnapper149
"Rev. Red"