The Right Thing is Scary

Today was full of God doing amazing things.  But, it scares me.

 Amazing – Our ten year old foster son got baptized. 

Amazing – His mother, and two of her friends, came to church to see him get baptized.

Amazing – His mother, and her two friends, heard the gospel preached very plainly.  I don’t know where they are at spiritually, but everyone needs Christ.  The opportunity for them to hear the gospel is amazing.

Amazing – They had a positive experience at church.  They said that they have been to other churches but don’t always understand what the preacher says.  They like our pastor and understood him.

Scary – Inviting these people into our world.  Most foster parents have little, or no, contact with the birth parents.  As a foster parent, it is easier to live separately from the natural mother.  It is scary to have her into our world.  The family dynamic changes.  I wonder how the children will react to her and to me.  How will she react to us?

Scary – What if she wants to come back to church?  What if she comes back to see the kids every week?  What will it be like to have her presence in our life every week? 

While this scares me, I have to put my fears aside.  The family dynamic, my feelings, my fears, etc., are not important in comparison to the mother’s spiritual needs.  God wants me to spiritually build into the lives of these children and their mother.  Their spiritual needs are of utmost importance.  Following God is the life of faith.  Faith must prevail over fears.

Please pray for us as we follow God down this scary path.  More importantly, pray for the spiritual needs of this family.  That is their greatest need.

Rambling Thoughts About the Creation/Evolution Debate

I watched the creation/evolution debate between Ken Hamm and Bill Nye, the Science Guy.  While I have many thoughts about the debate, I only have time to share a couple (and you probably only have time and interest to read a couple of my thoughts).

 First, I will jump to the end of the debate because I think it is the most crucial issue addressed.  The final question asked what they base their views on.  Ken Hamm answered first and firmly said  he bases his belief in creationism on the Bible.  He believes science supports the biblical claims that God created the world in six literal days.  Bill Nye said he bases his views solely on science. 

 After listening to these two men for about two hours, I believe Bill Nye incorrectly answered the question (I’m not saying he intentionally lied. He probably does not understand his real starting point.  Yes, I admit that I’m being presumptuous by claiming I know his true starting point and he does not.).  Bill Nye’s views are not really based on science.  There are no scientifically recorded observations of what happened on earth thousands, millions, or billions of years ago (if in fact the earth existed that long).  So, Nye cannot really base his belief in the origins of the universe on science.  Similarly, scientific observations of this current world are subject to interpretation.  Nye and Hamm, as well as other scientists both evolutionists and creationists, have the same scientific “facts” about this earth, but they come to different conclusions, evolution or creation, because they interpret the facts differently. 

 So, how do we explain the difference in their interpretation?  It is their starting point.  Hamm admits he starts with the Bible.  When he views scientific evidence, he interprets it in light of biblical teaching that God created the world in six days.  On the other hand, Bill Nye begins with the belief that God does not exist and, therefore, everything must be explained solely by the natural world, without any possibility of a supernatural intervention.  Since God is out of Nye’s picture, he has to interpret the scientific “facts” differently than Hamm.

 Likewise, I think that people who already believe in creationism think Hamm won the debate, while people who already believe in evolution believe Nye won the debate.  A person’s starting point, already believing in creationism or evolution, led them to their belief of who won the debate.

 The key point is that a person’s starting point will determine their conclusion.  Hamm starts with a belief in God, so he concludes that God created the earth.  Nye starts with a belief that God does not exist, so he concludes that the earth is a result of evolution.  Very few people actually let the “scientific evidence” lead them to believe in God or to reject a belief in God.

 Second, the “scientific evidence” is, in reality, insufficient to cause anyone to “know” that God exists, that creationism occurred, or that evolution occurred.  The debate, as a whole, made it clear that no one really “knows” what happened.  Absolute knowledge or certainty is impossible.

 With that said, I think Hamm provided significant evidence that creationism is a reasonable belief.  Personally, I believe the evidence shows without any “reasonable doubt” (borrowing a term from the legal field, which recognizes that absolute knowledge and certainty is impossible) that God created the world in six literal days.  At the very least, there is enough evidence for creation that a reasonable man can believe in creationism.

 Third, the debate about creationism and evolution is only a small part of the real issue.  The real issue is whether men and women are sinful creatures destined for hell because of our sin, but God sacrificed His only Son to pay for our sins; we can be forgiven of our sins and spend eternity in heaven by believing in Jesus Christ.

 At times, Hamm veered away from the science and spoke about the Bible as a whole.  Initially, I was frustrated by this approach thinking he failed to use his allotted time to “prove” creationism and “debunk” evolution.  Later, I decided that Hamm’s approach was correct.  The ultimate goal is not to win a debate about creation.  The more important issue is salvation.  Hamm even explained the entire plan of salvation in the debate. 

 Since creationism and evolution are really just a small part of the total discussion, a person should look at all of the evidence about God.  There is significant historical evidence demonstrating the authenticity of the Bible, the fact that Jesus live, Jesus performed miracles, Jesus was executed, and Jesus rose from the dead.  If a reasonable person looks at all of the evidence, not just the scientific evidence, he must conclude there is more evidence supporting the existence of God and that Jesus died for our sins, than there is evidence to the contrary.  Hamm correctly expanded the scope of the debate; the more that a person sees the more overwhelming the evidence to support God and the Bible.

 Fourth, several times Nye answered questions by saying that he did not know.  The lack of answers about why man exists illustrates the emptiness of evolution and should lead someone to look for deeper answers.  As Hamm pointed out, the Bible answers these questions.  There is more to life than just being an animal with no purpose.  God has a plan.

 Fifth, as Nye explained evolution, it became apparent that people do not really live as evolutionists.  Evolution supports the idea of the survival of the fittest.  If we lived that way, then racism would continue and it would be acceptable for stronger races to subjugate lesser races.  Slavery would be acceptable.  The persecution of minority groups, including homosexuals, would be acceptable.  No one could claim any moral ground like homosexuals should be treated equally.  Why?  According to evolution, the strongest survive so no one claim that minorities should receive any special treatment.  If they need special treatment to survive, then they should be extinct.  Of course, such life is unacceptable to evolutionists.  Accordingly, they do not even live by their own purported beliefs.

Finally, Nye, on numerous occasions, explained that he was afraid that creationism would cause people to stop developing scientific technologies.  This argument is, honestly, very lame.  Creationists and Evolutionists currently work under the same natural laws.  Gravity and other natural laws apply to everyone.  A Creationist is perfectly capable of developing technologies and Hamm provided numerous examples of Creationists excelling in the areas of science.  Nye attempted to create a tragic disaster caused by creationism.  No such threat exists and his attempt illustrates the overall desperation of his position.

She's In Another World

She’s 9 years old and is in another world.  She talks to herself.  She sings constantly.  She dances around the house.  She draws fairies and mermaids.  She’s oblivious to the world around her.  She leaves stuff everywhere.  She’s happily living in Maddieland.

It can be annoying.  I can’t get her attention.  She takes forever to get anything done because she drifts off into another world.  Often I can’t find her.  Her stuff is everywhere.  When will she grow up?  When will she be more responsible?

She’s 9.  She’s a child.  She’s happy.  What’s wrong with Maddieland?  She’ll grow up.  She’ll mature, just like her older sisters.  What’s the rush?  Childhood is good.  It will end soon.  Let her enjoy it while she can.  Stop being annoyed.  Stop pushing her.  Let her enjoy her childhood.

I think our society does two devastating things to our children.  First, they rush our children through childhood.  Society pushes them to be tweens and teens.  They push them into every kind of fad.  They push into clothes to make them look older.  They push them to listen to music with mature themes.  They push them to watch television and movies that are not acceptable.  Society rushes children through childhood.

Then, society tries to keep children from growing into adults.  Society wants to keep them as irresponsible adolescents.  Don’t grow up.  Make your education last forever.  Continue to live with your parents.  Don’t get a long term job or career.  Play video games all night.  Don’t bother betting married.  Experts actually claim that adolescence lasts until the age of 30.  Society tries to keep children from maturing into adults.

Right now, she is a child.  Her childhood will end soon enough.  In a few years, she will transition to being a teenager, grow in maturity, and accept responsibilities.  She will continue to grow and mature.  By her early 20s, she should grow into a godly, responsible, independent adult.  While that will happen, today she should enjoy “Maddieland” and I should not rush her out of it.

Thankful for the Work of Other People

It was 25 degrees outside.  Snow was falling.  About 2 inches of fresh powder sat on the roads.  I’m out on a 3 mile run.  My family and friends call me crazy, but I need the run to keep me from going crazy.  I am enjoying the run, even in the frigid temperatures.  I like the falling snow.  I’m nervous about the footing as a I run, but this adds to the challenge.

About half way through the run, I round a corner and see a utility truck.  The men are bundled up working.  I’m out here for fun, but I don’t think they are out here for fun.  They are out here working to keep my neighborhood comfortable.  I doubt these guys volunteered to brace the cold and snow to work; or, if they volunteered, it was solely for the paycheck.  It made me think.  I appreciate the fact that they are braving the elements to keep me comfortable. 

As I run, I thank God for their work.  Then, I think about all the people who work to keep me comfortable.  It’s work that I can’t do; I don’t know how.  To be honest, a lot of it is probably work that I don’t want to do.  But, they do it in order to keep me comfortable.  I need to be more thankful for their work.

Children Are Taking Notes in Church?

I’m in church with my children.  The two 9 year olds are singing and enjoying the service.  Then, the Pastor begins to preach.  I’m taking notes and trying to learn.  But, the kids lose interest.  They get fidgety.  On a good day, they quietly doodle while waiting for church to end.  They are hanging on me.  They are distracting.  There should be a better way.

I want to raise children who actually love God and have a relationship with Him.  I don’t want them to just go through the motions.  I don’t want them to attend church just to please me or because that’s what good Christians are supposed to do.  I want them to enjoy church and enjoy growing in their relationship with God.  This isn’t working.  There should be a better way.

I look at my notes.  I look at them.  Then, it comes to me.  Why can’t they take notes?  Note taking will force them to pay attention.  It will get them to be engaged.  It will keep them involved and, hopefully, interested.  It will help us talk about the message while we eat lunch.

I get them to take notes.  I’m surprised.  They are actually doing it.  I think they are even enjoying it.  Sometimes, I laugh at the content.  My daughter’s writes, “Pastor likes pot roast with his chicken parmesan.”  Other times, I can see that they are really getting it.  Her note says, “Jesus is the main attraction.”  They’re asking me questions about the sermon.  My son runs out of space in the bulletin and asks for more paper.  He requests a notebook.  I’m pleased.  They are getting it.  Church is becoming more than just some boring thing that Christians have to do.  They are involved, learning, and enjoying it.   

I want to seize this opportunity and spread it to other children.  Now, at my church, I give candy to any child who takes notes during the service.  On the first week, the kids come with their notes.  I give out candy.  They smile.  I don’t plan to read their notes, but some want me to read what they wrote.  It’s exciting to see.  Parents are pleased and thanking me.

Many adults of all ages tell me it’s a great idea.  I appreciate their thoughts.  But, I wonder, “Do they take notes?”  If note taking is a good idea for children, then it should also be a good idea for adults.  Why would a child want to takes notes if their parents don’t take notes?  Personally, it helps me learn and remember the message.  It keeps me engaged in the service.  My mind is more active. 

You should give note taking a try and suggest it to your kids.  If you need some motivation, come see me after the service and I’ll give you some candy.

Praying for the Most Important Miracle

On December 12, 2013, God granted me a miracle.  Those who follow my blog or facebook posts know that, out of the blue, the State of New Jersey returned our four year old foster daughter after she had been removed for ten months.  This was nothing short of a miracle and I give God all the praise and glory for performing the miracle.

I believe that God wants Christians to live a life of faith, which requires that we undertake bold acts for Him that will only succeed if God provides.  Our service as foster parents is one example of a life of faith. 

If we are going to live a life of faith, then we are going to have to depend on God and ask that He perform miracles.  We cannot do it ourselves.

I asked God to return our foster daughter to us.  I did not like the fact that He allowed her to be removed.  I did not like the fact that it took ten months for Him to grant the miracle.  But, He provided the miracle in His time.  Praise God.

After he granted that miracle, I started praying for another miracle (I think God wants us to pray for miracles.  It shows we are living by faith and are depending on Him).  I prayed, and am continuing to pray, that the natural mother of our four foster children will surrender the children and allow us to adopt them.  All four foster children have the same mother; they have different fathers who are not involved in their lives.  The older three children were removed from their mother 42 months ago and the younger one has been in our house since leaving the hospital after his birth.  Despite all of this time, the natural mother is still trying to have the children returned to her and she sees the children weekly.  At this point, it appears there will be a trial to determine whether the children will return to her or whether her parental rights are terminated and the children can be adopted.  If there is a trial, I do not know how it will turn out. 

I believe it is in the best interests of the children if we adopt them.  So, I am praying for a miracle.  I am praying that the mother, even after 42 months of battle, will surrender the children and we will be able to adopt them.

While I have been praying for this miracle, I realized that my miracle is not the most important request.  The most important issue for this family is their salvation.  While I pray for the children, for their adoption, and for their salvation, I have not diligently prayed for the mother’s salvation.  If God grants my miracle, I will adopt the four children and they will accept Him as their Savior (the oldest one has already done this), but the mother may never accept Jesus as her Savior.  No matter how much earthly help I can give the children, the reality is that it is an insignificant benefit if they spend eternity apart from God.  The best thing that I can give to any of these people is Jesus Christ.  Now, I am praying for a more important miracle – the salvation of their mother. 

I’m still praying that she will surrender the children, but her salvation is the more important request.

BOOK REVIEW: David and Goliath by Malcolm Gladwell

With books like Outliers, Tipping Point, and Blink, Malcolm Gladwell has become one of the more popular writers in the last few years.  When I saw the Kindle version of his latest book, David and Goliath, on sale, I bought it looking forward to his insights with, hopefully, a biblical perspective.  Unfortunately, after reading it, I was disappointed.  While he tells some interesting stories, he misses the point of David’s victory over Goliath and demonstrates a lack of moral judgment, which undermines the overall book.

Gladwell’s premise, drawn from the story of David and Goliath, is that we misunderstand power and advantages.  Often things that appear powerful have significant weaknesses that make them beatable.  Similarly, advantages often have significant disadvantages.  On the other hand, what can appear to be a weakness or disadvantage can be turned into strength or advantage.

Gladwell begins with David’s victory over Goliath and claims, “All these years, we’ve been telling these stories wrong.”  In his telling of the story, Goliath only appears to be a powerful giant.  Instead, he has significant weaknesses that David exploited.  For example, Goliath was armed for hand to hand combat; he was not prepared to battle a “slinger” (someone using a slingshot).  Since Goliath was so large, he probably had a physical disability, “acromegaly”, which causes vision disability.  His vision problems prohibited him from recognizing that David was attacking with him a sling.  Consequently, according to Gladwell, David’s victory is completely explainable in human, not supernatural, terms. 

Gladwell completely ignores the presence of God in the story.  While it is possible for people to overcome strong enemies and disadvantages, that is not the focus of the biblical account of David and Goliath.  When King Saul tells David that he cannot defeat the giant, David responds, “The Lord who delivered me from the paw of the lion and from the paw of the bear will deliver me from the hand of this Philistine.” (1 Samuel 17:37).  When Saul sent David to battle, Saul says, “Go, and the Lord be with you!” (1 Samuel 17:37).  Clearly, David won the battle, not because he “outsmarted” Goliath or exposed Goliath’s human weaknesses, because of the presence and power of God.  Gladwell completely misses this point.

In addition, Gladwell demonstrates no moral judgment.  For example, in one chapter, he explains how some people overcome disadvantages, such as dyslexia.  However, in overcoming their disadvantages, they often resort to sinful acts.  Gladwell summarizes, “They bluffed their way into professions that would have been closed to them.”  This “bluffing” included lying and deceit, which are sins.  Nevertheless, Gladwell justifies their actions, “What they did is not ‘right,’ just as it is not ‘right’ to send children up against police dogs [he tells a story of civil rights leaders purposefully baiting police into using dogs against children in order to gain a propaganda advantage in the battle for civil rights].  But we need to remember that our definition of what is right is, often as not, simply the way that people in positions of privilege close the door on those on the outside” (emphasis added).  According to Gladwell, there are no moral absolutes.  Rather, morality is used to control power.  So, it is okay to change the morals in order change power.  This is wrong and is not biblical.  Such thinking is dangerous.

Disturbingly, some Christian book reviews failed to fully identify these weaknesses.  A couple of reviewers identified Gladwell’s weaknesses in the story of David and Goliath, but they failed to fully understood the significance of Gladwell’s misinterpretation.  One reviewer wrote that Gladwell’s approach “neglects the key aspects of David’s triumph.”  Another reviewer noted that Gladwell “ignores the obvious divine empowerment behind David.”  But, neither seem to express this as a major problem.  However, neither reviewer noted any of Gladwell’s moral problems, which should have been pointed out.

Notwithstanding these problems, Gladwell tells some interesting stories and makes some interesting points.  However, even his good points are overstated.  Just because one or two people have defeated a giant or overcome a disadvantage does not mean that everyone can use the same strategy to defeat a giant or that the disadvantage is really an advantage.  The book was mediocre.  It wasn't terrible because it had some redeeming traits (good stories and interesting points), but it had too many weaknesses to be considered good or great.

REFLECTIONS ON 2013

In many ways, 2013 was a very tough year and was dominated by the foster children.  The highlight of the year occurred in February when D accepted Jesus as his Savior.  While there a several reasons to be a foster parent, we primarily want the kids to become children of God.  Now, we get the privilege of making him a disciple.  While being a foster parent can be very difficult at times, we see real fruit from our effort.  Regardless of what happens with the foster children, I know that all of the work has been worth it because D will spend eternity in heaven.  Now, we pray that we will be able to continue to raise the other foster children and that they will accept Jesus as their Savior.

            Just a few weeks later, our year hit a low point, when the State took B away from us.  She had lived with us since she was nine months old, for a total of two and half years.  This devastated us.  The State attacked us and tried to take the three foster boys from us.  The Law Guardians, the attorneys for the children, battled the State and were able to keep the boys with us.  But, despite their efforts, the State would not relent with B and they would not return her to us.  The efforts to get B, and the devastation of losing her, dominated the year.

            On December 12, God performed a miracle.  Prior to that date, the State decided to move B to a new home because she was having behavioral problems and her new foster family no longer wanted her.  During the afternoon on the 12^th, B had been taken to the hospital because her doctor thought she may have pneumonia.  Even though she did not have pneumonia, the State decided to change her foster home.  Without our knowledge, the Law Guardians heard of the move, and made an emergency application to a Judge to have her placed our home.  At about 4:45 p.m., out of the blue, the caseworker called and asked us if we could pick up B at the hospital.  Immediately, my wife and I wept for joy.  We praise God for her return.  We don’t know how long she, or her brothers, will be with us.  So, we will daily take care of them.

            I achieved some of my goals for the year.  For example, I read 18 books.  I lost 28 pounds and now weigh 170 pounds.  I started running again; I ran three 5K races and the Broad Street Run.  I increased my speed and endurance to the point where I have run 7.5 miles in less than 60 minutes (less than an 8 minute per mile pace).  I bought a second refrigerator for my wife.

            Some goals were not met.  I did not memorize all the bible verses that I wanted that I had planned.  I did not get my house painted.  I blogged some, but not as much as I wanted to.  I guess these will re-appear on this year’s list of goals.

            I did something unexpected.  I wrote two books.  I never anticipated writing a book but was challenged, by my daughter Alyson, to write 100 words a day for 100 days.  The books are aimed at a 4 to 6 grade audience and are about 3 boys who solve mysteries.  Growing up, I loved reading Hardy Boy books, so I wrote a book that I would have liked to read when I was that age – lots of action, danger, and mystery.  I read the first book to my children and they loved it.  I had so much fun with the first book that I wrote a sequel and am getting ready to read the second book to the kids.

            While I learned a lot this year, I am learning and appreciating God’s care and protection.  In January, we were driving our 12 passenger van to Ohio during a snow storm.  While on the Interstate, the back end of the van slid around, I lost control, and the van turned about 300 degrees.  It was scary, but God protected us.  We did not hit anything.  We did not end up in a ditch.  No one hit us.  We were able to continue driving and arrive at our destination. 

            A few days ago, my brother and his family were traveling on the Pennsylvania turnpike.  Suddenly, a “white out” occurred and nearly 40 vehicles, including a propane truck, collided.  A truck rear ended my brother’s car.  Another car ended upon on the hood.  They walked away, unharmed.  God protected them. 

            God’s protection is more appreciated when I see that life is fragile.  A few weeks ago, I was parked on a street waiting for two of my children to come out of youth group, cross the street, and get in my car.  While I waited, a boy crossed the street and put his guitar in his mom’s car, which was two cars ahead of mine.  He remembered that he left his bag in the building.  As he returned across the street, about 20 feet ahead of me, he was hit by a car and dragged 100 feet.  I stood with my kids as EMT desperately tended to him and he was taken to a hospital.  A couple of hours later, we learned that he died.  We tend to live our lives thinking that we, and our kids, are reasonably safe.  The reality is that life is fragile.  When I realize this fact, I become more appreciative of God’s protection.

Calorie Counter

I am skeptical of calorie counting.  I understand the premise, but doubt the practicality.

The premise makes sense. To lose weight, you must burn more calories than you consume.  Numerous programs will tell you how many calories a person of your weight and gender should consume.  Simply count your calories, make sure you eat less than you are supposed to eat.  Then you will lose weight.

I skeptical because I don't know how to figure out how many calories I actually consume.  Some things are simple.  I eat some instant oatmeal for breakfast and the box says the packet is 130 calories.  I eat a can of soup for lunch and the can says it is 200 calories.  The problem is that most items are not so easy.  When I eat pizza for lunch at the local restaurant, I don't know how many calories are in it.  It's kind of hard to check a chart.  There are too many variables such as the size of the slice and ingredients.  Harder yet is dinner.  My wife makes great succulent dinners but there are numerous ingredients in them.  How many calories are there?  Plus, how much am I eating?  I don't know.  Therefore, the calorie counting does not work.

At the beginning of the year, I decided to lose 25 pounds.  I ate smaller portions, less desserts, and less snacking, combined with a return to running.  Initially, I made progress.  Within three months, I lost 15 pounds.

But then the weight lose stalled.  For months, I stayed the same weight.  The good news - I was not gaining weight.  The bad news - I was not losing any more weight.  I remained 10 pounds short of my goal.

Last week, my wife talked me into trying a calorie counting app.  For many foods, I can scan the bar code and it calculates the calories.  I can review the ingredients, scan them, and estimate how much I am eating.  It figures out the calories.  If there is no bar code, like for my pizza, it searches a database and I can choose a close match.  The app keeps track of how many calories I am allowed to eat, how many I have eaten, and how many I have left for the day.  If I run, I tell it how many calories I ran and it adjusts my allowable intake. 

In many ways, it seems easy and it may work.  But, I am still skeptical.  Does it work?

I have only been using for one week, so I don't know for sure.  But, in one week, I have lost 3 pounds.  I finally got past the 15 pound mark.  Despite my skepticism, I think I will keep using the calorie counter . . . At least for a while.

Harmonious Living

With eight or nine people living in our house, including a two year old, a four year old, and two nine year olds, there is a lot of conflict in our house.  As a parent, I am always trying to douse a fire and maintain peace.

This Sunday, our pastor, Vince MacDonald, preached from 1 Peter 3:8.  The first few words jumped off the page.  "All of you, be harmonious" (NASB).  This is what I want my kids to get.  Of course, I can probably use some of it too, especially after a long day at work or dealing with unruly kids.

So, how do we live harmoniously? 

I equate it with some other concepts I have been trying to instill in my children, such as "peacemaking" and simply getting along with each other.  To do this, they should often just ignore the behavior of someone else.  "He is calling me names," one child yells.  "He's taking my toy," another accuses.  "She's singing too loud," someone complains.  Yes, the child who is hitting, taking toys, singing too loud,  or whatever is wrong.  But, you can still make peace and get along.  How?  By ignoring it.  Just ignore them and do something else.  It's not that big of a deal.  Just let it go.  Plus, once you ignore them, they will get tired of calling you names, playing with your toy, and singing loudly.

I had a chance to live this out the other night and I used it as an example for my children.  We were at a rodeo and our seats were behind a fence.  I wanted some good action pictures, but could not get them because of the fence.  So, I moved up above the fence.  I carefully chose my spot between some bleachers; I would not obstruct someone's view.  After taking a few shots, another photographer stepped right in front of me.  He rudely got in my way and the way of other people.

This guy is rude.  He's a jerk.  I was here first.  I am the polite guy; I'm not in anyone's way.  I have the right to be here and he should get out of my way.  I could nicely approach him and ask him to move.  If I am nice, he might get out of my way.  He may also continue to be a jerk and cause a scene. 

But, I can be a peacemaker.  I can choose peace.  I simply walked down the path to another section.  I stood between the bleachers and took my pictures.  No reason to confront the jerk.  No reason to risk a scene.  Just move.  That is peacemaking.

Often, we just need to forget about our rights, or being right, and just ignore a problem.  Be a big enough person to solve it without conflict.  Make peace.  This is what I am trying to teach my children.  If I can learn it too, then we all might be peacemakers and live harmoniously.  After all, blessed are the peacemakers.

Struggles since losing our Foster Daughter

            Three years ago, God asked our family to care for two children who were “essentially” orphans.  We were carrying out God’s command of caring for orphans.  On August 23, 2010, He sent a 19 month old boy and his sister, a 9 month old girl who weighed only 14 pounds.  The little girl, B, was near death because she had not been fed.  Emotionally, she was dead.  She did not smile, laugh, or cry.  She could sit up only if she was propped up.  She did not crawl or roll around.  After weeks of caring for her, she grew tremendously.  On Christmas, when she was 13 months old, she started walking.  Today, she is a very healthy young girl.  She is incredibly intelligent.  She shows great emotions, often smiling and laughing.  She has great gross and fine motor skills.  If you saw her, you would never know of her condition when she was 9 months old.

            The social workers continually told us that we were doing a great job raising these children.  In fact, they were so pleased that, when the natural mother gave birth to another child in July, 2011, they sent the baby to our home from the hospital.  When their older brother, who is now nine years old, had difficulties in his foster home, they moved him into our home.  They obtained special waivers in order to place two additional children in our home.  They wanted us to adopt all four children.

            Then, something happened.  The social workers decided to remove all of the children, claiming they had medical concerns about B.  When I asked about the medical concerns, they could not identify one treating doctor that had concerns or identify one medical problem.  In reality, all doctors were thrilled with her condition while in our care.

Initially, they removed B, with plans to remove her brothers.  The children have attorneys, called Law Guardians, who represent the children’s interests.  Practically speaking, Law Guardians almost always support the actions of the State.  In an unprecedented manner, these Law Guardians opposed the State and sought to keep the boys with us and have B returned to us. 

           

            For several months, legal battles raged.  About two weeks ago, the Law Guardians decided to stop fighting.  As a result, the State agreed to allow the boys to stay with us.  But, B has been sent to another home and we may never see her again.

            I am devastated and very sad.  We were doing God’s work of caring for orphans.  This girl needed us.  We were going to adopt her.  Raising these kids has been extremely difficult; we wanted to quit on numerous occasions.  But, we never quit.  We showed faith and perseverance.  How could God let this happen?  I wrote down some of my thoughts, such as the following:

• God really let us down.
• I prayed a lot.  Many friends from around the world prayed.  This was not a selfish prayer.  This was a prayer for an orphan.  God is supposed to grant this request.  He gave a lousy answer.
• How can God take B away from us when we nursed her back to life?
• Will B ever accept Jesus as her Savior?
• I am sure B feels we abandoned her.  I don't want to be the guy who abandoned her.
• I have talked, and even preached, about living a life of faith and doing great/hard things for God.  We did this.  We sacrificed a lot to live this life of faith.  Now, God does this.  I feel like God just threw it in my face.
• After what God has allowed to happen, why would I want to serve Him anymore?
• God could have stopped this.  It is easy for Him, but He did nothing.

Some of these thoughts are pretty blunt, but they are how I have felt the last two weeks.  I will not abandon my faith, but I can understand how someone could.

            A few years ago, I was interested in reading Phil Vischer’s book, Me, Myself, and Bob.  He is the creator of Veggietales and he lost his company in a bankruptcy (it is a long story).  I saw the e-book on sale at Amazon.  I bought it and read it in two days.  Interestingly, we have some similar thoughts and feelings, such as:

• “I knew that the company and ministry I had built in 12 years of often exasperating work was on the verge of disintegrating – collapsing right before my eyes.  Most perplexingly, I knew that God knew it, too. . . He knew how hard we had worked.  He knew how far we had come.  And it appeared, from where I sat, that he was going to do nothing to help us” (emphasis added).
• “What I wrestled with . . was the fact that God could have saved Big Idea Productions. . . . He can do anything.  But he didn’t” (emphasis added).
• “it wouldn’t have taken much effort.  Especially for God.  He could have easily done it, and it would have saved Big Idea.  But he didn’t.”
• “What confused me so deeply is that I knew he saw me fall, and I knew he had the capacity to catch me – to prevent my accident from happening.  Yet he didn’t.  He just stood there, watching me tumble down the stairs.  What kind of God would do that?” (emphasis added).

At the end of the book Vischer talks about a pastor who saw his dream die and suffered debilitating physical problems.  The Pastor thought, “If this is what it’s like to work for you, I’m not sure I can do it anymore.”  I can relate to this thought.

            The Pastor taught about the Shunammite woman in 2 Kings 4.  She serves God and Elisha.  She is childless and God gives her a son.  Then the boy dies.  He writes, “What is the point of all that?  I mean, why put the poor woman though that exercise?”  Again, I can relate.  Finally, the Pastor said, “If God gives you a dream, and the dream comes to life and God shows up in it, and then the dream dies, it may be that God wants to see what is more important to you – the dream or him” (emphasis added).

            This experience and these feelings are still new to me, so I am not done processing everything.  Right now, I understand a few things:

• If God wants to know what is more important, B or Him, I will choose God.  He is the most important.
• I think it is okay to be sad that B is gone.
• While God inexplicably took B away, He still wants me to raise the three boys.  I will do the best I can at raising the three boys.
• I also have four natural born children.  I will do the best I can to raise them.
• God will take care of B.  While I care about her, I can do nothing for her.  It is God’s responsibility.  In reality, it was always His responsibility, even when she lived with me.  I am just his instrument.

MORE PRAYER NEEDED

In my prior posts, I have explained the situation with our foster children (the State has removed our foster daughter, B, from our home and will not return her even though her attorney and doctors say the State is wrong and she should live with us).  Two weeks ago, a hearing was scheduled to determine whether it was in B's best interests to return to us.  Unfortunately, the judge decided not to have a hearing.  So, everything has remained the same (3 boys live with us and B lives with some friends).

Now, we need more prayer for a hearing scheduled for tomorrow (Monday, June 17, 2013) in the afternoon.

The family caring for B is leaving for vacation.  They will be gone for 2 of the next 3 weeks.  They cannot take B as these plans were made months ago, before B lived with them.  So, the State wants to put her in another home; a place where she does not know the people and they do not know her.  A place where both parents work all day, so B will spend most of her time in day care.

B's attorneys want B to live with us for those 3 weeks.  The State is refusing.  So, B's attorneys are asking a judge to order the State to place B with us for the 3 weeks.

I am asking that you pray for us and the situation.  Obviously, I would like prayer for the judge and for the attorneys.

Today, the burden on my heart is that God will give mercy to B.  She is a precious 3 year old who may be forced to live with people she does not know for 3 weeks.  My heart breaks just thinking about it.  I pray that God will show her mercy and place her with people who love her.

I ask that you join us in praying for B and her brothers.  Pray that God will show mercy on them allow them to live with people they love.

THE GREAT CIRCUS TRAIN ROBBERY - CHAPTER 10

CHAPTER 10

            "Let's go!" Jack yelled as he sprinted for the car.

            Jack quickly jumped through the window, as Calvin followed.  They found Willie kneeling next to a woman's head and shoulders.  A large wooden crate sat on the rest of her, pinning her down.  They saw her beard and recognized her as Ingrid.  Her head and shoulders were covered with blood. 

            "She's not moving," Willie blurted out.  His chest was heaving up and down.  His eyes were open wide.  "But, I think she is breathing.  Go get help!"

            Jack scrambled through the window and jumped off the wrecked train car.  He ran towards a group of people, frantically waving his arms over his head, and yelling, "Help!  I need a doctor, ambulance!  Someone is hurt!  Hurry!  I need a doctor!"

            People, scattered throughout the wreckage, heard Jack's cries and started running.  The first person to arrive was a man wearing the uniform of someone from an ambulance.  He stopped in front of Jack, "I’m a paramedic.  What's wrong?"

            "The bearded woman is in her car!  She's hurt and trapped under a crate!  She’s all bloody and not moving!  We think she’s breathing!"

            "Show me where."

            "This way!" Jack waived his hand and ran to the woman's car.  He pointed to the window.  The paramedic jumped on the car, knelt down and looked in the window.  "Stand back," he instructed Calvin and Willie, as he jumped through the window, stepped over debris and knelt next to the woman's head.

            "We'll help you move the crate," Willie volunteered.

            "No, we can't move anything yet.  I have to examine her first."  He placed his fingers on her neck and announced, "Her heart is beating.  She's alive."

            Calvin and Willie looked at each other with relief. 

            Jack, looking through the window, yelled, "Great!"

            The paramedic turned his head and looked around.  He noticed the car was small with debris scattered everywhere.  "Not much room to work in here," he mumbled to himself.  He looked at Calvin and Willie, "You boys need to get out so other medical personnel can get in and help me.  It is too cramped in here."

            Calvin and Willie obeyed.  Calvin climbed out first and saw a crowd of people gathering around.  Another paramedic was at the window.  "Get out of the way," he instructed.  Calvin jumped clear of the area. 

Behind him, Willie stuck his head through the window.  The paramedic grabbed Willie by the shoulders and pulled him out.  "Give me a break," Willie squealed.

            "Sorry.  I'm trying to get down there fast."  The paramedic disappeared, jumping through the window.  Two more paramedics followed.

            The crowd wondered what was happening.  Jack decided to get some glory, "Hey everyone.  Ingrid is in her car and she’s hurt.  We called the paramedics.  She’s bleeding and is trapped under a crate.  She’s alive and we hope the paramedics will get her out safely."

            From the back of the crowd, Jack heard someone pushing his way through and rudely barking, "Get out of my way.  I need to get through.  Move!"  Jack turned his attention to people getting pushed aside.  The crowd opened and the Sheriff stepped through.

            "What are you doing here?" the Sheriff bellowed, as he glared at Jack.  He turned and scowled at Calvin and Willie.  Willie stepped backwards and looked down at his feet.

            "Nothing," Willie mumbled. 

Jack defended himself, "We’re just looking around.  We weren't doing anything."

            "If you weren't doing anything, then why were you in a wrecked train car?  You shouldn’t be in there."

            "We just poked our heads in.  We’re just looking around.  Honest!"

            "Just looking around, eh?  Then, how do you know the woman's name?  If you were just looking around, you wouldn’t know her name."

            "Well, uh . . ."  Jack was caught and knew it.  He thought, "How do I get out of this?"  He looked at Calvin, his eyes begging for help.

            Calvin stepped in between Jack and the Sheriff.  "The important thing is," Calvin interjected as he started pushing Jack off the train car, "we saved this woman's life.  We’re going to step down and watch you guys rescue her.  We'll be out of the way."  Calvin continued to push Jack, as he retreated as well.  "Why don't you go and oversee the rescue?  Don't let three young boys distract you from saving a woman's life.  You're a hero."

            The Sheriff gave the boys a surly stare as they stepped off the train car.  "Go home and don't come back!"

            Calvin pulled Jack and Willie behind some people and simply waved an acknowledgment to the Sheriff.  Through the bodies of the crowd, they saw the Sheriff disappear through the window. 

            "Thanks for getting me away from the Sheriff," Jack whispered.

            "Yeah, well, you just had to show off didn't you.  What did you think was going to happen?"

            "I thought everyone would want to know about Ingrid.  I was trying to help.  How was I supposed to know the Sheriff was around?  I thought he was with the tiger."

            "You wanted everyone to treat you like hero.  Now, we have to figure out how to continue our investigation without the Sheriff catching us."

            The people around the window started stirring and moving back.  A voice said, "Move back, please.  Make some room."  Two paramedics emerged from the window.  They bent over and reached into the window.  They pulled a long board through the window.  Ingrid was strapped to the board.  She had a large white collar wrapped around her neck.  Once the board was completely out, the paramedics carried her to a nearby ambulance.  Blue and red lights flashed as it drove away.

            Calvin turned his gaze to the window and saw more people emerging.  "Quick," he whispered to his friends.  "The Sheriff will be getting out.  We need to hide.  Run to the woods."

            Jack and Willie complied silently.  They ran into the woods and dove under some brush.  They rolled over and poked their heads up just enough to see what was going on.

            "Let's wait here," Calvin suggested.  "When people leave, we can sneak back to Buster's car.  I think it’s next to Ingrid's car."

            "Sounds good to me," Jack responded.

            Willie nodded.

            They waited silently, lying on the ground.  After a few minutes, Willie put his head down, resting it on his right arm, and fell asleep.

            Jack nudged Calvin with an elbow and pointed at Willie.  "Look at him."

            "Leave him alone. We'll wake him up when we are ready to move."

            Calvin and Jack continued to watch.  Two people climb into the car and the rest of the crowd slowly disbursed.  Eventually, everyone was gone except the two people in the car and three people standing on the far side of the car, who were engaged in a conversation with their backs to the boys. 

            "I’m tired of waiting," Jack whispered.  "I think we should go."

            "Yeah, it's time to move.  We can make it without being seen.  Wake up Willie.  Be gentle."

            Jack nudged Willie with his elbow.  "Hey, wake up.  We’re gonna go to Buster's car."

            Willie moaned for a few seconds.  He had forgotten where he was.  It took a minute to remember he was in the woods at a train wreck.  "What are we doing?"

            "We're going to Buster's car," Jack responded.  "Let’s go."  Jack crouched as low as he could and shuffled his feet as fast as he could to Buster's car.  He quietly crawled onto the car, moved towards the window, and slid into the car.  Calvin and Willie followed, copying his movements.

            Once Willie dropped into the car, Calvin spoke, "We made it."

            "Yeah.  Now, what are we looking for?" Jack asked.

            “Like before, I don't really know.  Just anything that might connect Buster to the theft."

            In the corner, Calvin noticed drawers tipped over with papers scattered around.  He walked over and flipped through them.  "He could be hiding things.  Why don't you guys look through his drawers and anything else?"

            Jack saw a dresser and searched it.  Willie opened a luggage trunk and found some papers.  He sat down on a mattress and paged through them.

            "Hey, guys," Calvin interrupted the silence.  "I just found a receipt for a train ticket.  It’s a ticket heading to New York.  He’s leaving from Brownsville at 6 o’clock.”

            "Brownsville?  That’s only a few minutes from here," Jack observed.

            "It proves he’s leaving today.  He planned to crash the train here so he would be near Brownsville.  He must be the thief," Calvin concluded.

            "I think we should get to the train station and stop him.  He must have the money and is getting away," Jack suggested.

            Willie rotated his head between Calvin and Jack as they spoke.  "Don't you think we should just tell the Sheriff?  I mean, this guy is really strong.  This could be dangerous."

            "Call the Sheriff?" Jack exclaimed.  "Are you kidding me?  After the way he treated us?  I say we go capture this guy and get some respect."

            "We already know," Calvin inserted, "the Sheriff doesn’t listen to us.  This guy is at the Brownsville train station and we’re not positive he’s the thief.  I think we should find him and confirm he’s the thief.  Then we can call the Brownsville Sheriff."  Calvin turned to direct his comments to Willie, "Nothing dangerous, okay?  Are you with us?"

            "Yeah, I guess so," Willie, still sitting on the mattress, sheepishly muttered.

            Calvin saw something protruding from under the mattress.  "Stop!  Don't move!"

            "What?"

            "You're sitting on something.  I think it’s a bomb.  If Buster’s the thief, he used some bombs.  I think he left one here and you’re sitting on it.  Don't move.  We don't want to blow up."

THE GREAT CIRCUS TRAIN ROBBERY - Chapter 9

CHAPTER 9

            The boys stared as the motorcycle bore down on them.  They froze, unable to move.  Willie closed his eyes, turned his head, and dropped his hamburger.  By doing so, he missed seeing the motorcycle turn slightly to the right, then back to the left, and run over a board sitting on the ground.  As the motorcycle hit the board, the motorcycle flew into the air, rising over the boys’ heads.  Jack and Calvin gazed as it passed over their heads, tumbled backwards and completed a summersault in mid-air.  They turned and watched it land on two wheels.  It popped a wheelie and sped off.

            "Wow!  Did you see that?"  Jack, in awe, spoke first.

            "Yeah, that was incredible," Calvin responded.

            Willie opened his eyes, "Aaahhh, wwwhhhat happened?  Are we alive?"

            Before anyone could answer, the motorcycle did a 180 degree turn and roared back at them.  Willie yelled, "Oh no!  Here it comes again."

            Calvin tried to calm him down, "I think we’re okay.  If he was going to hit us, he would’ve already done it."

            "Yeah," Jack interjected.  "It’s the circus stuntman."

            As Jack finished talking, the motorcycle skidded to a stop, kicking up dust on the boys.

            "Wow!  That was so awesome," Jack exclaimed.

            The rider pulled off his helmet.  "Hi, guys.  I am Rocky, the circus stuntman."

            "I knew it." Jack congratulated himself.

            "I heard you were looking for me," Rocky continued.  "So, I decided to give you a show."

            "That was really good," Calvin chipped in.

            Willie shook his head, "I missed it.  You scared me to death."

            "I didn't mean to scare you.  Well, maybe I wanted to give you a little scare.  I thought it would add some drama to the stunt.  I hope you enjoyed it and that I did not scare you too much."

            "It was too much for my liking," Willie complained.  He looked down, saw the rest of his hamburger sitting in the dirt, and shook his head.  There were still two bites left.

            "Never mind him. He’s scared of everything," Jack said.

            "I am not," Willie defended himself.

            Not liking the direction of this conversation, Rocky interrupted, "Well, I’m glad two of you liked it."  He looked at Willie, "And to you, I am sorry I got carried away.  I do that sometimes.  Well, I have to go."  Rocky twisted his right wrist, revving up the engine.  The rear tire spun, kicking up more dirt.  Rocky sped away.

            Jack smiled as Rocky road off.  "That was really cool."

            Calvin nodded his head in agreement.  "Yeah, but if he’s here, then he’s probably not the thief."

            Seeing his chance to be right, Willie remarked, "I told you it wasn't the stuntman.  It’s the bearded woman."

            Not yet ready to jump to conclusions, Calvin cautioned, "We don't know if it’s the bearded woman.  She is missing, so it could be her, but the elephant trainer and the clown are also missing.  It could be any of them."

            Jack, knowing his guess was wrong, wanted to add something to the solution of the crime, "Well, at least we can rule someone out."

            "You're right.  Now, let's get to the office car and continue our investigation," Calvin instructed as he started walking.

            Jack and Willie walked next to Calvin.  As they walked, Willie mumbled, "I can't believe I dropped by hamburger."

            The boys arrived at the office car and crawled through a window into the car.  "What do you want us to do?"  Jack asked energetically.

            "We need to find files on the missing people," Calvin instructed.  "My dad works for companies and he says companies have files for the employees.  The files should tell us about the missing people.  I hope there is something that will show who the thief is."

            Jack found a file cabinet sitting on its side with the drawers partially opened.  "Hey, Willie, help me set this cabinet up."

            Willie stepped over some debris and joined Jack.  They reached their hands under the top of the cabinet and lifted.  Within seconds, the cabinet was upright.  Jack pulled open the first drawer and found files with the names of different people.  "Okay, let's find the file for your bearded woman.  Do we know her name?"

            Willie pulled out his program and ran his finger down the list of performers.  His finger stopped at a picture of the bearded woman.  "The program says her name is Ingrid Bergmeyer."

            Jack's fingers pulled files forward in the drawer until he found a folder with a label, "Bergmeyer, Ingrid".  He pulled it out and opened it.  The first page had the title, "Employment Application".  A picture of a bearded woman was stapled next to the title.  "Freaky," Jack uttered as he handed the file to Willie.  "Here is your bearded woman."

            Jack turned his attention back to the files.  "Does anyone know the last name of the clown?  The first name is Rudy.  These are filed by last name."

            Willie was flipping through pages in Bergmeyer's file and simply shook his head.  Calvin responded, "No."

            Jack noticed that after the last name, the first name was also on the file.  "Okay.  I'll find it. It’s just going to take longer."  He proceeded to methodically flip through each individual folder searching for the name Rudy.  Near the back of the drawer, he grabbed a file, "Got it.  Rudy Schneider."  He handed the folder to Calvin.

            Jack turned his attention back to the drawer.  "Who's next?  The elephant trainer is missing right?  Calvin, did you get the name of the elephant trainer?"

            They told me, but I can't remember.  It sounded foreign, maybe Indian.  I think it started with an A"

            "Well, that’s a big help."  Jack said sarcastically as he peered at the folders.  He remembered seeing a strange name beginning with an A.  His eyes scanned the folders and froze on a folder with the name "Assad".  He pulled it out and looked at it.  It has a picture of a dark skinned man with a turban on his head.  The position listed on the application was "Elephant Trainer".  Jack exclaimed, "I got it."  He closed the drawer and started flipping through the pages.  "What exactly are we looking for?"

            Calvin continued reading Rudy's file and mumbled, "I don't know.  Anything that makes him look like a thief.  We already know he works with animals, so he might be comfortable letting the tiger loose.  Is there anything else that makes us think he could do it?

            "I found something about Ingrid," Willie offered.  "She is from Romania.  There’s a note in here that says she’s going to quit the circus."

            Jack, always skeptical of any contribution by Willie, scoffed, "So what?  The lady was going to quit.  I hope she shaves."

            "If she’s quitting, then she might not care about the future of the circus," Willie explained.  "Remember, Mr. Barnes said that everyone is like a family and wouldn’t want to hurt anyone.  But, if she’s leaving, she might not care about anyone else."

            "And, if she’s leaving," Calvin interjected, "she might want one big pay day before she leaves."

            "Her file also says," continued Willie, "she grew up in a circus.  Her parents were animal trainers.  So, she probably knows the animals well.  Her mother lives in Romania and is dying.  She’s leaving the circus to be with her mom.  She probably needs money to return to Romania and care for her mother."

            Calvin nodded, "Sounds like she is a good suspect."

            "I hate to admit it, but it sounds good," Jack said reluctantly.  Hoping there was a better suspect, Jack asked Calvin, "So, did you find anything in Rudy's file?"

            "No.  In fact, the circus really looks like family for Rudy.  His parents are clowns and his sister is a tight rope walker.  If he stole the money, he’d be hurting his family.  What about you and the elephant guy?"

            "I don't see anything either.  He works with animals, so maybe he let the tiger loose, but I can't find any other reason for him to be the thief."

            "So, it must be Ingrid,” Willie confidently concluded.        

            "She’s a great suspect, but I just thought of someone else we haven’t seen."

            Now, Willie was disappointed, "Who?"

            "Remember the muscle guy who grabbed us earlier?  I didn’t see him when we were outside.  Did anyone else see him?"

            Willie and Jack shook their heads. 

            Jack, happy there was another suspect, asked, "What’s his name?  I’ll get his file."

            Willie pulled out the program.  On the last page, he found a picture of the muscle bound man.  "The program says his name is Buster Lewis.  It also says he’s the World's Strongest Man.  That's why he has so many muscles."

            While Jack flipped through the files, Calvin thought out loud, "When we saw him, I noticed that his belt was worn on two notches."

            "So what?" Jack muttered as he pulled out Buster's file.

            "I think he’s been losing weight.  He used to wear his belt in one notch, so that notch became worn.  Then, he lost weight and had to use a different notch, so the belt would be smaller.  That notch became worn.  He kept losing weight and is now using a third notch.  The worn notches show he’s losing weight."

            Jack was still puzzled, "I understand what you are saying, but I don't know why we care if he’s losing weight."

            "I also noticed his shirt and pants were loose.  What if he’s losing weight and his muscles are getting smaller?"

            Even though Calvin was not really looking for an answer, Willie was eager to contribute, "Then, he wouldn’t be the World's Strongest Man."

            Calvin continued, "Right.  Maybe he’s also leaving the circus and he has no reason to keep his large muscles.  It’s okay if he loses weight and gets smaller."

            "If he’s leaving the circus, he doesn’t care about the future of the people in the circus either," Willie asserted.  "Just like Ingrid."

            Jack, while reviewing the file added, "There’s even more from his file.  He used to be a Marine and was trained in explosives.  He could’ve set the bombs."

            Calvin gave a little whistle, "Wow, we have two good suspects.  Either could have done it."

            "How do we know which one?" Willie questioned.

            "Let's go to their cars.  Maybe we’ll find a clue," Calvin suggested.

            Jack threw the file on the cabinet and started climbing out of the window.  "Sounds good.  Let's go."  The other two followed.

            Once outside, Calvin instructed, "Let's walk along the train and look for the cars for Ingrid and Buster.  Whichever one we see first, we’ll check for clues."  The boys agreed.

            Willie was the first to see the bearded woman's face painted on the side of a car.  "This is Ingrid's car," he claimed as he started running for the car.  Quickly, he found a broken window and started to climb through it.

            Calvin and Jack trailed along behind him.  "We'll let him go first," Calvin said as he put his arm out to slow Jack down.  "He hopes Ingrid is the thief so he can be right.  Let him have the first chance to find something."

            "All right," Jack mumbled, not really wanting to wait.

            They watched Willie place his hand on the sides of the window, stick his feet through, and slowly lower his body.  Eventually, he let go of his hands, his body dropped, and his head disappeared.

            "So, how long do we wait before we go in?" Jack asked.

            Before Calvin could answer, Willie scream, "Help!  Help!  I need help!"