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Sunday, February 21, 2016
Stegosaurus decided that he was going to spend some time in China visiting his cousin Wuerhosaurus. When Kentrosaurus found out about the trip, he asked to come as well, since he had never been to China. Stegosaurus agreed to pick him up along the way, so he got on his raft and floated forthrightly to Johannesburg, South Africa to meet Kentrosaurus. When Stegosaurus arrived, Kentrosaurus said,
"Hail, good cousin! I am glad you are here and look forward to spending time with you and Wuerhosaurus in the Country of China! May God bless and protect us on our journey! Have you heard if Lexovissaurus and his lovely wife Loricatosaurus are coming?"
"I asked, " said Stegosaurus, "... and the answer was 'No.' This spring is Loricatosaurus' last semester at Oxford, and since she is studying hard she does not have time for travel. Lexovissaurus is reluctant to leave for China ... he said he'd rather visit England since his wife is there and he'd like to see her graduate. He said he would be likely to make it to China some year when his wife is there digging around looking for herself somewhere."
"I am sorry to hear that they will not be with us, I was looking forward to seeing them," said Kentrosaurus. "Let's get started on our journey. I have checked with Woolly Mammoth, and he knows of and has approved my time off at the Church."
"Very well, " said Stegosaurus. "We do indeed have a long way to go." And thus, the journey began. But they hadn't floated very far at all, when on the Niger River Delta specifically the Escravos River they saw their sauropod friend Nigersaurus.
"Hail, Nigersaurus!" exclaimed Stegosaurus. "I hope you are doing well!"
"I am, friend Stegosaurus, Kentrosaurus. I see you are floating on your raft; where do you travel? Stegosaurids are generally not seafaring types .... it must be important for you to get on a raft."
"We are headed to China to visit cousin Wuerhosaurus!!" said Kentrosaurus. "God be praised for protecting us on our long journey to the Orient!"
"Would you like to come with us, Nigersaurus?" asked Stegosaurus. "You are certainly more than welcome to come along."
"Thank you for the offer, but no. The sun is out and I'm really of a mind to stay in this Lazy River in the noonday sun, the Lazy, lazy River where I can linger in the shade of a kind old tree, and then later when I'm hungry eat the top off of it."*
"Very well! Best of the day to you, Nigersaurus! Enjoy your shade, your trees, and your body of water!" said Stegosaurus.
"I will see you when I return," said Kentrosaurus. "God be with you."
Stegosaurus and Kentrosaurus floated forthrightly on the water for a very long time afterward; after many days travel they arrived at Macau, China, the Western side of the Pearl River Delta.
"Here is China," observed Stegosaurus.
"The Lord Jesus Christ be praised; we have safely arrived!" Exclaimed Kentrosaurus with joy. Then, with a pause, "It looks much like any other populated city, but that the boats are slower."
"There's a lot more to it than that," assured Stegosaurus.
"Let us go at once to find Wuerhosaurus," said Kentrosaurus. "I am sure he will be willing to act as our tour guide."
"He is supposed to meet us here in Macau," said Stegosaurus.
"I am sure he will arrive anon," said Kentrosaurus. "In the meantime, look at these beautiful flowers I've just noticed on the side of the road. I'm famished after such a long journey; let us dine."
"That is the Nelumbo nucifera; you are right it has been along journey and we are both very hungry and tired as well, but we cannot eat this flower because..." Stegosaurus was then interrupted.
"That's right! You must not eat that flower!" some one exclaimed. The two hungry Stegosaurids looked up to see their cousin Wuerhosaurus.
"The Nelumbo nucifera is the official flower of the city of Macau. It is also the official State flower of the countries of India and Vietnam. It would be incredibly disrespectful to eat it," said Wuerhosaurus.
"I am sorry to greet you with such a stern warning, but it was important, I assure you. Welcome, cousins! It is so nice to see you both. I am pleased to see you have arrived safely. Come with me. I will give you something that you can eat with out offending the majority of the populace. You must be very hungry indeed after such a long journey."
"Cousin Wuerhosaurus! I am so glad to see you!" said Kentrosaurus.
"No offense taken." assured Stegosaurus. "You are after all native to this land, and know the local customs. Also, you are our guide and we will defer to you on matters of proper protocol."
"Come with me, " said Wuerhosaurus. "Visit my cave, and I will make you both a nice dinner. Yes, Kentrosaurus, you may say grace beforehand."
"Thank you, cousin," said Kentrosaurus.
So it was that the three Stegosaurids stomped to a nearby cave, where a hearty meal was prepared by Wuerhosaurus. "Enjoy," encouraged Wuerhosaurus. "This is not my home cave," said Wuerhosaurus. "Later we shall all travel by slow boat for my home in Tibet. I left my native land of Xinjiang years ago because the climate and temperament of the natives in Tibet agreed with me. No one bothers me coming or going into or out of Tibet; the problems that the mammals have created for themselves, the politics of the region do not affect me; I may come and go as I please."
"How very pleasant," observed Stegosaurus.
"Wuerhosaurus prepared a hearty vegetarian meal for his cousins which consisted of the popular vegetarian dish "Buddah's Delight"; a side dish of almond cake and ginger milk. The Buddah's Delight dish consisted of these main ingredients: Bamboo Shoots, Black Mushrooms, Water Chestnuts, Fried Tofu, Bok Choi, Snow Peas, Carrots, Wood ear, Wheat gluten, Peanuts, Napa Cabbage, Bracken fern tips, and Cauliflower. The Ginkgo nuts were not used, out of respect for Stegosaurus' reverence for that tree, but replaced with Chinese celery. When the food was presented, with permission Kentrosaurus began his prayer thus:
"Dear Lord Jesus, we thank you for this food which we are about to receive, which is but one of the blessings you have given us this fine day. Stegosaurus and I are grateful for the friendship and camaraderie of our cousin Wuerhosaurus who is a gracious host. We pray you bless this cave and its inhabitant, all of his land, and all of his life, and we are grateful for this day as any day on this wonderful world you have made and given us, upon which we have lived for millions of years. Amen, Amen, Amen."
"Thank you, Kentrosaurus," said Wuerhosaurus. "Now I will share with you the prayer that we Buddists pray before dinner."
With that, Wuerhosuarus chanted "Om, Ah, Hum" three times, took a deep breath, and then he said:
"Guru is Buddha, Guru is Dharma,
Guru is Sangha also.
Guru is the originator of all (goodness and happiness).
To all Gurus, I make this offering.
You, whose body was formed by a million perfect virtues,
Whose speech fulfils the hopes of all beings,
Whose mind perceives all that is to be known,
To the prince of the Shakyas I make this offering.
The supreme teacher, the precious Buddha,
The supreme practice, the holy precious Dharma,
The supreme guide, the precious Sangha,
To all of the objects of refuge, I make this offering.
May we and those around us, in all future lives,
Never be separated from the Three Jewels,
Continuously make offerings to the Three Jewels,
And receive the inspiration of the Three Jewels.
Om, Ah, Hum."
After which, the three Stegosaurids ate happily; and then after dinner Wuerhosaurus performed a short ceremony. Having gathered some water in a bowl, he said: "Cousins, if you'd like, please visualize with me, the deity Yeshe Karda above, flowing nectar from his body into this bowl of water." and then he recited the heart mantra of Yeshe Karda, "OM JNANA AVALOKITE SAMANTA PARANA RAMI BAWA SAMAYA MAHA MANI DURU DURU HRIH DAYA JALANI SOHA!" Then, Wuerhosaurus discarded the water in the bowl as an offering, gathered more water, and repeated the mantra seven times. Then, he recited the following prayer:
“This ocean of water appears as nectar to all the pretas that the omniscient mind sees. All the pretas see it as an ocean of milk, they drink it and are fully satisfied. It liberates them from all sufferings, including the specific sufferings of the pretas, causes of delusion, karma, and defilements. These are all purified and they actualize the whole path to enlightenment.”
"This is divine food," Wuerhosaurus continued; all who drink it, all who live in it are blessed and purified to achieve a higher rebirth. Each preta who receives this word will be blessed, and his or her hunger shall be fully satisfied; their rebirth shall be on a higher plane, their advancement secured."
"Excuse me for asking," said Stegosaurus, but what is a preta?"
"I will gladly explain to you the knowledge you seek," said Wuerhosaurus. "The pretas are the deceased; they are supernatural beings that cannot be seen on this plane except in certain cases where one's mental state is removed from this reality. They are, therefore for the most part invisible to us, but they suffer greatly the perils of metaphysical, or spiritual starvation. They are, without this blessing prevented from achieving knowledge of and advancement to the higher planes of existence."
"So, this is an effort to help them along their spiritual journey?" asked Kentrosaurus.
"Yes, cousin. Yes, it is." said Wuerhosaurus. Then he said, "Come, cousins. Let us enjoy the New Year festival. I have knowledge that a public parade is about to begin, and we can all take part in it. I am so glad you are come here to celebrate with me. February 8th marked the Chinese year of the Monkey, which, by our lunar calendar is the year 4714. Let us go out and mingle among the mammals; we'll fit right in at the Dragon festival I believe."
The three Stegosaurids stomped out of the cave where they had their repast til they arrived again at the city of Mancau. As night fell and the moon appeared in view, they then saw a parade of mammals coming anon down the street who were celebrating the festival of the Dragon, and as Wuerhosaurus predicted they fit right in. Accompanied by a fireworks display, they paraded down the street with some of the Macanese climbing up on their backs. A group of Macanese mammals danced as they carried the traditional Dragon made of paper and silk through the streets, even beside the Stegosaurids. It was very loud, but colourful, and everyone involved enjoyed themselves immensely.
The very next morning all three Stegosaurids got into Wuerhosaurus' slow boat and floated slowly, yet forthrightly to the land of Tibet, in order to visit Wuerhosarurus' adopted homeland. "Welcome to the largest port in all of Tibet," said Wuerhosaurus. "This is known as the land of Zham. From here the country exports goods to Nepal in India. I moved here because the climate is subtropical. I'm sure we all agree this situation is ideal." Stegosaurus and Kentrosaurus nodded.
When the boat reached land, the three Stegosaurids gladly exited the boat and then stomped up a fair bit of rocky hill side until they reached a small, unassuming cave roughly a mile up from the seashore.
"Welcome to my humble abode, cousins!" said Wuerhosaurus. "It isn't much, but I like it. I would be pleased if you'd accept some butter tea, which is a traditional drink of hospitality here in Tibet.
"Of course, we'd be honored," said Kentrosaurus, speaking for his cousin ... which Stegosaurus didn't object to, because it was polite, and besides that he was thirsty after the long, slow journey.
"I've been working on brewing this tea for the last half day," said Wuerhosaurus. "It should be ready about now, since I started this morning. After it was done steeping, I added some salt, strained it, added the butter, and churned it to the proper consistency. Then it was transferred to this copper pot here, and kept warm over coals."
"How long has this been the tradition in your country?" asked Kentrosaurus.
"Between the 10th and 13th centuries, which is a long time for mammals," observed Wuerhosaurus.
"I see some Juniperus, of the family Cupressaceae," observed Stegosaurus. "Do you mind if I eat some of it?"
"You may have some," said Wuerhosaurus. "..... but this wood has been gathered here in order that it be burned to please the God of the house. The God of the house is pho-lha, and he protects this abode." Thus, shortly the room was shortly filled with the pleasant smell of burning wood, and all three decided to enjoy a meal of Juniper with their butter tea as they relaxed and enjoyed the company of each other.
* lyrics to "( up a ) Lazy River" by Sidney Arodin and Hoagy Carmichael, 1930.
"Hail, good cousin! I am glad you are here and look forward to spending time with you and Wuerhosaurus in the Country of China! May God bless and protect us on our journey! Have you heard if Lexovissaurus and his lovely wife Loricatosaurus are coming?"
"I asked, " said Stegosaurus, "... and the answer was 'No.' This spring is Loricatosaurus' last semester at Oxford, and since she is studying hard she does not have time for travel. Lexovissaurus is reluctant to leave for China ... he said he'd rather visit England since his wife is there and he'd like to see her graduate. He said he would be likely to make it to China some year when his wife is there digging around looking for herself somewhere."
"I am sorry to hear that they will not be with us, I was looking forward to seeing them," said Kentrosaurus. "Let's get started on our journey. I have checked with Woolly Mammoth, and he knows of and has approved my time off at the Church."
"Very well, " said Stegosaurus. "We do indeed have a long way to go." And thus, the journey began. But they hadn't floated very far at all, when on the Niger River Delta specifically the Escravos River they saw their sauropod friend Nigersaurus.
"Hail, Nigersaurus!" exclaimed Stegosaurus. "I hope you are doing well!"
"I am, friend Stegosaurus, Kentrosaurus. I see you are floating on your raft; where do you travel? Stegosaurids are generally not seafaring types .... it must be important for you to get on a raft."
"We are headed to China to visit cousin Wuerhosaurus!!" said Kentrosaurus. "God be praised for protecting us on our long journey to the Orient!"
"Would you like to come with us, Nigersaurus?" asked Stegosaurus. "You are certainly more than welcome to come along."
"Thank you for the offer, but no. The sun is out and I'm really of a mind to stay in this Lazy River in the noonday sun, the Lazy, lazy River where I can linger in the shade of a kind old tree, and then later when I'm hungry eat the top off of it."*
"Very well! Best of the day to you, Nigersaurus! Enjoy your shade, your trees, and your body of water!" said Stegosaurus.
"I will see you when I return," said Kentrosaurus. "God be with you."
Stegosaurus and Kentrosaurus floated forthrightly on the water for a very long time afterward; after many days travel they arrived at Macau, China, the Western side of the Pearl River Delta.
"Here is China," observed Stegosaurus.
"The Lord Jesus Christ be praised; we have safely arrived!" Exclaimed Kentrosaurus with joy. Then, with a pause, "It looks much like any other populated city, but that the boats are slower."
"There's a lot more to it than that," assured Stegosaurus.
"Let us go at once to find Wuerhosaurus," said Kentrosaurus. "I am sure he will be willing to act as our tour guide."
"He is supposed to meet us here in Macau," said Stegosaurus.
"I am sure he will arrive anon," said Kentrosaurus. "In the meantime, look at these beautiful flowers I've just noticed on the side of the road. I'm famished after such a long journey; let us dine."
"That is the Nelumbo nucifera; you are right it has been along journey and we are both very hungry and tired as well, but we cannot eat this flower because..." Stegosaurus was then interrupted.
"That's right! You must not eat that flower!" some one exclaimed. The two hungry Stegosaurids looked up to see their cousin Wuerhosaurus.
"The Nelumbo nucifera is the official flower of the city of Macau. It is also the official State flower of the countries of India and Vietnam. It would be incredibly disrespectful to eat it," said Wuerhosaurus.
"I am sorry to greet you with such a stern warning, but it was important, I assure you. Welcome, cousins! It is so nice to see you both. I am pleased to see you have arrived safely. Come with me. I will give you something that you can eat with out offending the majority of the populace. You must be very hungry indeed after such a long journey."
"Cousin Wuerhosaurus! I am so glad to see you!" said Kentrosaurus.
"No offense taken." assured Stegosaurus. "You are after all native to this land, and know the local customs. Also, you are our guide and we will defer to you on matters of proper protocol."
"Come with me, " said Wuerhosaurus. "Visit my cave, and I will make you both a nice dinner. Yes, Kentrosaurus, you may say grace beforehand."
"Thank you, cousin," said Kentrosaurus.
So it was that the three Stegosaurids stomped to a nearby cave, where a hearty meal was prepared by Wuerhosaurus. "Enjoy," encouraged Wuerhosaurus. "This is not my home cave," said Wuerhosaurus. "Later we shall all travel by slow boat for my home in Tibet. I left my native land of Xinjiang years ago because the climate and temperament of the natives in Tibet agreed with me. No one bothers me coming or going into or out of Tibet; the problems that the mammals have created for themselves, the politics of the region do not affect me; I may come and go as I please."
"How very pleasant," observed Stegosaurus.
"Wuerhosaurus prepared a hearty vegetarian meal for his cousins which consisted of the popular vegetarian dish "Buddah's Delight"; a side dish of almond cake and ginger milk. The Buddah's Delight dish consisted of these main ingredients: Bamboo Shoots, Black Mushrooms, Water Chestnuts, Fried Tofu, Bok Choi, Snow Peas, Carrots, Wood ear, Wheat gluten, Peanuts, Napa Cabbage, Bracken fern tips, and Cauliflower. The Ginkgo nuts were not used, out of respect for Stegosaurus' reverence for that tree, but replaced with Chinese celery. When the food was presented, with permission Kentrosaurus began his prayer thus:
"Dear Lord Jesus, we thank you for this food which we are about to receive, which is but one of the blessings you have given us this fine day. Stegosaurus and I are grateful for the friendship and camaraderie of our cousin Wuerhosaurus who is a gracious host. We pray you bless this cave and its inhabitant, all of his land, and all of his life, and we are grateful for this day as any day on this wonderful world you have made and given us, upon which we have lived for millions of years. Amen, Amen, Amen."
"Thank you, Kentrosaurus," said Wuerhosaurus. "Now I will share with you the prayer that we Buddists pray before dinner."
With that, Wuerhosuarus chanted "Om, Ah, Hum" three times, took a deep breath, and then he said:
"Guru is Buddha, Guru is Dharma,
Guru is Sangha also.
Guru is the originator of all (goodness and happiness).
To all Gurus, I make this offering.
You, whose body was formed by a million perfect virtues,
Whose speech fulfils the hopes of all beings,
Whose mind perceives all that is to be known,
To the prince of the Shakyas I make this offering.
The supreme teacher, the precious Buddha,
The supreme practice, the holy precious Dharma,
The supreme guide, the precious Sangha,
To all of the objects of refuge, I make this offering.
May we and those around us, in all future lives,
Never be separated from the Three Jewels,
Continuously make offerings to the Three Jewels,
And receive the inspiration of the Three Jewels.
Om, Ah, Hum."
After which, the three Stegosaurids ate happily; and then after dinner Wuerhosaurus performed a short ceremony. Having gathered some water in a bowl, he said: "Cousins, if you'd like, please visualize with me, the deity Yeshe Karda above, flowing nectar from his body into this bowl of water." and then he recited the heart mantra of Yeshe Karda, "OM JNANA AVALOKITE SAMANTA PARANA RAMI BAWA SAMAYA MAHA MANI DURU DURU HRIH DAYA JALANI SOHA!" Then, Wuerhosaurus discarded the water in the bowl as an offering, gathered more water, and repeated the mantra seven times. Then, he recited the following prayer:
“This ocean of water appears as nectar to all the pretas that the omniscient mind sees. All the pretas see it as an ocean of milk, they drink it and are fully satisfied. It liberates them from all sufferings, including the specific sufferings of the pretas, causes of delusion, karma, and defilements. These are all purified and they actualize the whole path to enlightenment.”
"This is divine food," Wuerhosaurus continued; all who drink it, all who live in it are blessed and purified to achieve a higher rebirth. Each preta who receives this word will be blessed, and his or her hunger shall be fully satisfied; their rebirth shall be on a higher plane, their advancement secured."
"Excuse me for asking," said Stegosaurus, but what is a preta?"
"I will gladly explain to you the knowledge you seek," said Wuerhosaurus. "The pretas are the deceased; they are supernatural beings that cannot be seen on this plane except in certain cases where one's mental state is removed from this reality. They are, therefore for the most part invisible to us, but they suffer greatly the perils of metaphysical, or spiritual starvation. They are, without this blessing prevented from achieving knowledge of and advancement to the higher planes of existence."
"So, this is an effort to help them along their spiritual journey?" asked Kentrosaurus.
"Yes, cousin. Yes, it is." said Wuerhosaurus. Then he said, "Come, cousins. Let us enjoy the New Year festival. I have knowledge that a public parade is about to begin, and we can all take part in it. I am so glad you are come here to celebrate with me. February 8th marked the Chinese year of the Monkey, which, by our lunar calendar is the year 4714. Let us go out and mingle among the mammals; we'll fit right in at the Dragon festival I believe."
The three Stegosaurids stomped out of the cave where they had their repast til they arrived again at the city of Mancau. As night fell and the moon appeared in view, they then saw a parade of mammals coming anon down the street who were celebrating the festival of the Dragon, and as Wuerhosaurus predicted they fit right in. Accompanied by a fireworks display, they paraded down the street with some of the Macanese climbing up on their backs. A group of Macanese mammals danced as they carried the traditional Dragon made of paper and silk through the streets, even beside the Stegosaurids. It was very loud, but colourful, and everyone involved enjoyed themselves immensely.
The very next morning all three Stegosaurids got into Wuerhosaurus' slow boat and floated slowly, yet forthrightly to the land of Tibet, in order to visit Wuerhosarurus' adopted homeland. "Welcome to the largest port in all of Tibet," said Wuerhosaurus. "This is known as the land of Zham. From here the country exports goods to Nepal in India. I moved here because the climate is subtropical. I'm sure we all agree this situation is ideal." Stegosaurus and Kentrosaurus nodded.
When the boat reached land, the three Stegosaurids gladly exited the boat and then stomped up a fair bit of rocky hill side until they reached a small, unassuming cave roughly a mile up from the seashore.
"Welcome to my humble abode, cousins!" said Wuerhosaurus. "It isn't much, but I like it. I would be pleased if you'd accept some butter tea, which is a traditional drink of hospitality here in Tibet.
"Of course, we'd be honored," said Kentrosaurus, speaking for his cousin ... which Stegosaurus didn't object to, because it was polite, and besides that he was thirsty after the long, slow journey.
"I've been working on brewing this tea for the last half day," said Wuerhosaurus. "It should be ready about now, since I started this morning. After it was done steeping, I added some salt, strained it, added the butter, and churned it to the proper consistency. Then it was transferred to this copper pot here, and kept warm over coals."
"How long has this been the tradition in your country?" asked Kentrosaurus.
"Between the 10th and 13th centuries, which is a long time for mammals," observed Wuerhosaurus.
"I see some Juniperus, of the family Cupressaceae," observed Stegosaurus. "Do you mind if I eat some of it?"
"You may have some," said Wuerhosaurus. "..... but this wood has been gathered here in order that it be burned to please the God of the house. The God of the house is pho-lha, and he protects this abode." Thus, shortly the room was shortly filled with the pleasant smell of burning wood, and all three decided to enjoy a meal of Juniper with their butter tea as they relaxed and enjoyed the company of each other.
* lyrics to "( up a ) Lazy River" by Sidney Arodin and Hoagy Carmichael, 1930.
Sunday, January 24, 2016
Stegosaurus looked at his reflection when he woke up in the morning and realized that he hadn't evolved lately. So he went to the river and consulted his good friend Eusthenopteron for advice.
"Eusthenopteron," said he, "I wish I knew the secret to evolving. It seems like forever since there has been any change. I sure would like to start growing feathers like some of the smaller theropods have, but though I have been patient, I haven't grown a single feather. Still nothing but scales, day in and day out. What does it take? I am almost 140 million and 10! When is it going to start happening for me? What did you do to start evolving?"
"There is no quick answer, friend Stegosaurus," said Eusthenopteron. "It takes time, and evolution runs on its own schedule. First I had to evolve legs. Then, I had to evolve lungs. Then, I had to crawl out of the water and stomp uphill! Both ways! Both ways, mind you! It wasn't easy!"
"I've been eating Austrian pines lately and it occurred to me the other day how savings is tied to the natural interest rate, but ... that won't help me grow feathers," complained the frustrated Plate Lizard. "I would give anything to have feathers, or to evolve in some way like other dinosaurs have lately."
"There are some who would consider that knowledge a form of evolution," observed Eusthenopteron sympathetically. "My suggestion to you is that you consult Science Daily for the latest on an evolution schedule. Good luck!"
Stegosaurus went home and checked Science Daily on the internet, but found no clear answers.
"I might consult the legendary Thesaurus," said Stegosaurus to himself, "But he is just as elusive as the timetable of evolving."
Then, suddenly it occurred to the pensive Plate Lizard: "I know who I can consult for advice! I will go to the Dinosaur Retirement Home and consult Nyasasaurus and Dimetrodon! They are sure to know the answers to my questions as they have been around a lot longer than I have."
So Stegosaurus stomped forthrightly to visit his elderly friends. When they came into sight he declared, "Hail, friends Nyasassaurus and Dimetrodon! How fare ye this fine, day?"
"Excellent well, Stegosaurus! The sun is shining, my retirement cave is cozy, I am well fed, and there isn't a meteor in the sky!" rejoined Dimetrodon.
"What brings you to visit us today? We are so pleased to see that you have paid us a visit. Please stay for a while," encouraged Nyasassaurus.
"I am come for advice," said Stegosaurus. "I woke up this morning frustrated because I have not evolved lately and would really like some advice from those older than me on how begin this process. I have bird hips, but no feathers. Some theropods have feathers, but not me; not yet. I have been so patient, and yet day in and day out no change.... is there anything you can advise me to do? I have already stomped to the river and spoken to Eusthenopteron; he suggested I check the internet, but I have found no clear answers there."
"My heart goes out to you, friend Stegosaurus," said Dimetrodon ... "And I so wish to help you as you have been such a benefactor to me, getting me a nice cave at the Dinosaur retirement home, and a pension with the Dinosaur and Mythical Creature screen actor's guild Local 14065. The only thing I can offer you in a way of advice, even with all my elder years, is simply patience."
"Keep your spirits up, Stegosaurus. A lot of your friends feel your pain; you are not alone but evolution has a mind of its own and works in slow and mysterious ways. No one, no matter how old they are can say with any certainty when evolving starts. Evolving can't be marked in a calendar; its progress may be incremental and not as fast and obvious as we'd all like, but I can guarantee you it is sure. We can all look forward to a glorious day when the great majority of us turn into birds and fly away."
"Perhaps," interjected Nyasasaurus, in an effort to be helpful, "You can pause to meditate under your old friend, the Ginkgo biloba, of the family Ginkgoaceae; the ancient tree may give you some insight."
"You are right; I have a lot of respect for the Ginkgo biloba, as it is older than I am. My cousin Wuerhosaurus has taught me something of this meditation. Perhaps I should try it. Peace of mind is a valuable thing, and it can be cultivated. Perhaps if I clear my mind, the answer will become obvious .... and that will be a glorious day indeed. Thank you both so much for your advice."
"No trouble at all very glad to help," said Nyasasaurus. "Come back and visit us any time!"
"Good luck!" said Dimetrodon.
"Eusthenopteron," said he, "I wish I knew the secret to evolving. It seems like forever since there has been any change. I sure would like to start growing feathers like some of the smaller theropods have, but though I have been patient, I haven't grown a single feather. Still nothing but scales, day in and day out. What does it take? I am almost 140 million and 10! When is it going to start happening for me? What did you do to start evolving?"
"There is no quick answer, friend Stegosaurus," said Eusthenopteron. "It takes time, and evolution runs on its own schedule. First I had to evolve legs. Then, I had to evolve lungs. Then, I had to crawl out of the water and stomp uphill! Both ways! Both ways, mind you! It wasn't easy!"
"I've been eating Austrian pines lately and it occurred to me the other day how savings is tied to the natural interest rate, but ... that won't help me grow feathers," complained the frustrated Plate Lizard. "I would give anything to have feathers, or to evolve in some way like other dinosaurs have lately."
"There are some who would consider that knowledge a form of evolution," observed Eusthenopteron sympathetically. "My suggestion to you is that you consult Science Daily for the latest on an evolution schedule. Good luck!"
Stegosaurus went home and checked Science Daily on the internet, but found no clear answers.
"I might consult the legendary Thesaurus," said Stegosaurus to himself, "But he is just as elusive as the timetable of evolving."
Then, suddenly it occurred to the pensive Plate Lizard: "I know who I can consult for advice! I will go to the Dinosaur Retirement Home and consult Nyasasaurus and Dimetrodon! They are sure to know the answers to my questions as they have been around a lot longer than I have."
So Stegosaurus stomped forthrightly to visit his elderly friends. When they came into sight he declared, "Hail, friends Nyasassaurus and Dimetrodon! How fare ye this fine, day?"
"Excellent well, Stegosaurus! The sun is shining, my retirement cave is cozy, I am well fed, and there isn't a meteor in the sky!" rejoined Dimetrodon.
"What brings you to visit us today? We are so pleased to see that you have paid us a visit. Please stay for a while," encouraged Nyasassaurus.
"I am come for advice," said Stegosaurus. "I woke up this morning frustrated because I have not evolved lately and would really like some advice from those older than me on how begin this process. I have bird hips, but no feathers. Some theropods have feathers, but not me; not yet. I have been so patient, and yet day in and day out no change.... is there anything you can advise me to do? I have already stomped to the river and spoken to Eusthenopteron; he suggested I check the internet, but I have found no clear answers there."
"My heart goes out to you, friend Stegosaurus," said Dimetrodon ... "And I so wish to help you as you have been such a benefactor to me, getting me a nice cave at the Dinosaur retirement home, and a pension with the Dinosaur and Mythical Creature screen actor's guild Local 14065. The only thing I can offer you in a way of advice, even with all my elder years, is simply patience."
"Keep your spirits up, Stegosaurus. A lot of your friends feel your pain; you are not alone but evolution has a mind of its own and works in slow and mysterious ways. No one, no matter how old they are can say with any certainty when evolving starts. Evolving can't be marked in a calendar; its progress may be incremental and not as fast and obvious as we'd all like, but I can guarantee you it is sure. We can all look forward to a glorious day when the great majority of us turn into birds and fly away."
"Perhaps," interjected Nyasasaurus, in an effort to be helpful, "You can pause to meditate under your old friend, the Ginkgo biloba, of the family Ginkgoaceae; the ancient tree may give you some insight."
"You are right; I have a lot of respect for the Ginkgo biloba, as it is older than I am. My cousin Wuerhosaurus has taught me something of this meditation. Perhaps I should try it. Peace of mind is a valuable thing, and it can be cultivated. Perhaps if I clear my mind, the answer will become obvious .... and that will be a glorious day indeed. Thank you both so much for your advice."
"No trouble at all very glad to help," said Nyasasaurus. "Come back and visit us any time!"
"Good luck!" said Dimetrodon.
Friday, December 25, 2015
"When the college semester was over, I was at home resting on break when, on the day before Christmas Eve I was visited at home by my friends Trachodon and Agathaumas," said Stegosaurus.
"What brings you to visit me, good friends? Here, let me share with you a meal of holiday Pteridophytes. It is Christmas; these are not of the low fat variety."
"Thank you kindly," said Trachodon, and immediately set about eating the meal that was provided.
"Trachodon and I have come to ask you a favor," said Agathaumas.
"What do you require of me?" asked Stegosaurus. "I will try my best to be of help."
"Well, thank you," said Agathaumas. "As you know, Christmas Day is nearly upon us."
"...and," said Trachodon, looking up gratefully from his delicious, unexpected meal, "We'd like you to intercede with Stegosaurus Claus on our behalf."
"Why would you need me to do that?" asked Stegosaurus. "Have you two done something to end up on the Naughty list?"
"I hope I may say without vanity, no," said Agathaumas. "We have... I think fair to say, met the criteria for the Nice list."
"I think you should," said Stegosaurus. "So, what's the problem? What's the concern?"
"Well, we think we've both been pretty good this year," said Trachodon, as Agathaumas dug into his own Pteridophyte meal. "But..."
"....We're not sure Stegosaurus Claus will visit us, because we're Nomen dubium"
Agathaumas swallowed a bite of ferns, and said, "We're concerned, in short, that Stegosaurus Claus will pass us by just because we don't really exist. Trachodon's teeth, "discovered" in 1856 are probably actually teeth of a Parasaurualophus or a Corythosaurus... and though there was great pomp and circumstance when I was "discovered" in 1872, when it comes down to it, I'm just some misidentified Congresssaurus Triceratops vertebrae. But the fact remains that Trachodon and I .... we've been really, really good this year and we would like to find we have presents Christmas morning just like the dinosaurs that do exist."
"You will have to forgive me, if I have not noticed the good works that you do," said Stegosaurus. "Not that I am questioning your character in any way."
"We understand," assured Trachodon; "Indeed, the good works we do, we do in silence, as befits dinosaurs that don't exist."
"This is quite proper, and admirable," said Stegosaurus. "It is proper of anyone whether they exist or not."
"If you promise to keep what we tell you in confidence, we will explain to you some of the things we have done, and perhaps you can relay this information to Stegosaurus Claus for us," said Trachodon.
"I will be glad to be of help," said Stegosaurus, "Though I am sure Stegosaurus Claus will know; he knows everything. He knows when you are sleeping and awake, naughty or nice, all of that."
"Very true," said Agathaumas, but if we were real, Trachodon and I would be millions of years old, yet in all that time, we have not ever received one Christmas present. This is why we come to you. You are very popular among the dinosaurs; you are easily recognized as one of the classic examples of what a dinosaur is, even small children love you for some reason, so if you intercede with Stegosaurus Claus for us, I'm sure he will be moved to leave us presents."
"Small children might know me, but not many would know Agathaumas," said Trachodon with sympathy.
"I would really like to be loved by small children for Christmas," said Agathaumas. "No child ever plays with Agathaumas toys because there are none."
"I could reference you both to my public relations firm, my agent at the Dinosaur and Mythical Creature Screen Actors Guild Local 14065. My agent is really big in the industry... she's an Argentinosaurus. It isn't all bad. Don't be despondent upon Christmas because you both appeared with me in The Lost World film last month ..... or maybe that was 1925. It wasn't that long ago, I know. And both of you have been painted by my friend ( and yours ) Charles Knight. You have your place in history, if not the fossil record."
"Well, you know about the times we joined you and the Stegosaurus Disaster Relief Agency .... particularly that year the Moa Birds suffered the earthquake in New Zealand." said Trachodon.
"I am sorry," said Stegosaurus. "I do not recall your having been there. I apologize for not noticing."
"No, that is okay," said Trachodon. "Remember the good works we do we do in silence. Remember too, in January of this year Julio and his children? I helped you replace his roof."
"Well! You are indeed very humble about the good works you do!" exclaimed the surprised plate lizard.
"And just a few weeks ago, the Stegosaurus Disaster Relief Agency went to Texas with Rhedosaurus and his lovely wife," said Agathaumas.
"The Moa Birds were there, too... and so was I. I built a few dams."
"You have made your case." said Stegosaurus. "I will do what I can for you both. I will say that the odds are good, because Rhedosaurus and his wife receive presents every year, and they don't exist either."
"Thank you so much," said Agathaumas. "It really means a lot to us."
" When my friends finished their Pteridophyte meal, I bid them a good holiday, and they departed with plans to help run a soup kitchen on Christmas Day. As it turned out, I did not have to speak to Stegosaurus Claus," said Stegosaurus. "Trachodon and Agathaumas woke up on Christmas morning to Christmas presents for the first time in their lives. And I wrote a letter to my agent at the Dinosaur and Mythical Creature Screen Actor's Guild to see if I could help improve their public relations. I can't think of two dinosaurs more deserving of the attention. I hope my readers will take example of the good that Trachodon and Agathaumas have done and apply it themselves not only during this Christmas Season, but all throughout the year."
"What brings you to visit me, good friends? Here, let me share with you a meal of holiday Pteridophytes. It is Christmas; these are not of the low fat variety."
"Thank you kindly," said Trachodon, and immediately set about eating the meal that was provided.
"Trachodon and I have come to ask you a favor," said Agathaumas.
"What do you require of me?" asked Stegosaurus. "I will try my best to be of help."
"Well, thank you," said Agathaumas. "As you know, Christmas Day is nearly upon us."
"...and," said Trachodon, looking up gratefully from his delicious, unexpected meal, "We'd like you to intercede with Stegosaurus Claus on our behalf."
"Why would you need me to do that?" asked Stegosaurus. "Have you two done something to end up on the Naughty list?"
"I hope I may say without vanity, no," said Agathaumas. "We have... I think fair to say, met the criteria for the Nice list."
"I think you should," said Stegosaurus. "So, what's the problem? What's the concern?"
"Well, we think we've both been pretty good this year," said Trachodon, as Agathaumas dug into his own Pteridophyte meal. "But..."
"....We're not sure Stegosaurus Claus will visit us, because we're Nomen dubium"
Agathaumas swallowed a bite of ferns, and said, "We're concerned, in short, that Stegosaurus Claus will pass us by just because we don't really exist. Trachodon's teeth, "discovered" in 1856 are probably actually teeth of a Parasaurualophus or a Corythosaurus... and though there was great pomp and circumstance when I was "discovered" in 1872, when it comes down to it, I'm just some misidentified Congresssaurus Triceratops vertebrae. But the fact remains that Trachodon and I .... we've been really, really good this year and we would like to find we have presents Christmas morning just like the dinosaurs that do exist."
"You will have to forgive me, if I have not noticed the good works that you do," said Stegosaurus. "Not that I am questioning your character in any way."
"We understand," assured Trachodon; "Indeed, the good works we do, we do in silence, as befits dinosaurs that don't exist."
"This is quite proper, and admirable," said Stegosaurus. "It is proper of anyone whether they exist or not."
"If you promise to keep what we tell you in confidence, we will explain to you some of the things we have done, and perhaps you can relay this information to Stegosaurus Claus for us," said Trachodon.
"I will be glad to be of help," said Stegosaurus, "Though I am sure Stegosaurus Claus will know; he knows everything. He knows when you are sleeping and awake, naughty or nice, all of that."
"Very true," said Agathaumas, but if we were real, Trachodon and I would be millions of years old, yet in all that time, we have not ever received one Christmas present. This is why we come to you. You are very popular among the dinosaurs; you are easily recognized as one of the classic examples of what a dinosaur is, even small children love you for some reason, so if you intercede with Stegosaurus Claus for us, I'm sure he will be moved to leave us presents."
"Small children might know me, but not many would know Agathaumas," said Trachodon with sympathy.
"I would really like to be loved by small children for Christmas," said Agathaumas. "No child ever plays with Agathaumas toys because there are none."
"I could reference you both to my public relations firm, my agent at the Dinosaur and Mythical Creature Screen Actors Guild Local 14065. My agent is really big in the industry... she's an Argentinosaurus. It isn't all bad. Don't be despondent upon Christmas because you both appeared with me in The Lost World film last month ..... or maybe that was 1925. It wasn't that long ago, I know. And both of you have been painted by my friend ( and yours ) Charles Knight. You have your place in history, if not the fossil record."
"Well, you know about the times we joined you and the Stegosaurus Disaster Relief Agency .... particularly that year the Moa Birds suffered the earthquake in New Zealand." said Trachodon.
"I am sorry," said Stegosaurus. "I do not recall your having been there. I apologize for not noticing."
"No, that is okay," said Trachodon. "Remember the good works we do we do in silence. Remember too, in January of this year Julio and his children? I helped you replace his roof."
"Well! You are indeed very humble about the good works you do!" exclaimed the surprised plate lizard.
"And just a few weeks ago, the Stegosaurus Disaster Relief Agency went to Texas with Rhedosaurus and his lovely wife," said Agathaumas.
"The Moa Birds were there, too... and so was I. I built a few dams."
"You have made your case." said Stegosaurus. "I will do what I can for you both. I will say that the odds are good, because Rhedosaurus and his wife receive presents every year, and they don't exist either."
"Thank you so much," said Agathaumas. "It really means a lot to us."
" When my friends finished their Pteridophyte meal, I bid them a good holiday, and they departed with plans to help run a soup kitchen on Christmas Day. As it turned out, I did not have to speak to Stegosaurus Claus," said Stegosaurus. "Trachodon and Agathaumas woke up on Christmas morning to Christmas presents for the first time in their lives. And I wrote a letter to my agent at the Dinosaur and Mythical Creature Screen Actor's Guild to see if I could help improve their public relations. I can't think of two dinosaurs more deserving of the attention. I hope my readers will take example of the good that Trachodon and Agathaumas have done and apply it themselves not only during this Christmas Season, but all throughout the year."
Sunday, November 29, 2015
"My class and I, to my surprise were sent earlier this month to my native State of Colorado," said Stegosaurus. "I am still studying for my doctorate in tree disease. It has been a while I know, but it takes a long time to attain a doctorate when your brain is the size of a walnut. I'm slow, but I'm good."
"We were tasked with leaving the trees alone and only eating the woody bushes some 5 to 9000 feet up in the Colorado mountains. I found myself a nice meal of Ptelea trifoliata. And then, a little further up, I found some Cercocarpus ledifolius which was a rather heavy meal, but quite delicious. One of the most difficult parts of the test was identifying and eating the different forms of Hawthorns in my State. I found a nice group of Crataegus chrysocarpa, of which there was enough to share with my classmates. We also found considerable amounts of Crataegus erythropoda, and Crataegus succulenta. It was at this time that I accidentally ate a whole Pseudotsuga menziesii which is not a woody shrub, and I will probably get points marked off for that... but it is near Christmas, and I could hardly resist; other than the Picea pungens Engelmann, they are my favorite tree to eat."
Saturday, October 24, 2015
"Welcome, Brothers and Sisters! Welcome to my Holy Pentecostal Church of the Pleistocene Revival!" declared Woolly Mammoth.
"My Sermon today is on an ancient text, yet very topical for the times. Today I speak on the 133 rd Psalm. Who is here today, to hear the word of God?"
"Kentrosaurus is here!" declared Kentrosaurus. "You will speak the truth, as I know you to be a prophet of the Most High."
"We also have as a guest my cousin Wuerhosaurus, who has floated forthrightly all the way from China in his slow boat."
"Thank you for the introduction, Cousin," said Wuerhosaurus.
"I had to start out in August, but I made it in time. My good old boat is good, but she's slow." said Wuerhosaurus."As a Buddhist, I feel the path to self fulfillment comes from a deep and personal introspection but I have come to spend this season visiting my cousins, so I am here to hear this sermon, knowing that there are many paths to the same Source."
"How interesting that you should bring this up given the topic of the Sermon this morning," observed Woolly Mammoth.
"Quagga is here as well," said Sister Quagga. "At this festive time of year it is pleasant to be among friends."
"Western Black Rhino is present, too. I'm adjusting to this being extinct thing, but I really don't like it. I think maybe a good sermon will cheer me and be uplifting."
"We also have visiting from New Zealand, a flock of Upland Moa Birds," observed Quagga.
"Welcome,one and all!" said Woolly Mammoth.
"We are glad to be here, thank you for having us," said Upland Moa.
"Kentrosaurus, where are Lexovissaurus and Loricatosaurus?" asked Woolly Mammoth.
"Lexovissaurus and Loricatosaurus are not here; they are visiting Canada."
"Where is Stegosaurus?" Woolly Mammoth rejoined his interlocutor.
"He is studying for a test in his college class," replied Kentrosaurus.
"Very well," replied the Woolly Preaching Pachyderm. "Let the sermon begin, my children."
To which, the congregation replied, "Amen."
"I want to talk to you this morning about the 133 rd Psalm. Though written by King David in ancient times, it is very current and speaks to us today. If we listen, it can help us, indeed. Let me explain to you now, my brothers and sisters in Christ."
To which, the congregation replied, "Amen."
"When you consider the world today, all the divisions, the polarized contentions, errors so strong in conviction that listening and learning is seemingly impossible, it is well to remember the words of this Psalm. In frustration you may think, what can I do, when no one will listen, and you know you are not the one in error? Take comfort in this ancient yet timely advice:
"Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!" For beyond this mortal coil, higher above than the cold land of extinction, is a holy land of peace and brotherhood that heals divisions, that opens the ears that were stopp'd and the eyes that were blinded to see the Grace .... the Holy Grace of the Most High God Jesus Christ who will come to those who suffer and who are downtrodden and say, " Come. When you have accepted me, you will know peace and you will be one in the heart of the Father! AMEN! Can I hear you say it with me, AMEN! AMEN! Brothers and sisters, Amen!
To which, the congregation replied, "Amen!"
"You can make that world a part of your daily life here and now by accepting Christ Jesus into your heart! By this small concession you have the power to bring about without that which you see within: The Blessings of Jesus the Christ redeemer of mammal and dinosaur alike!
Verily, I say unto you brothers and sisters, "It is like the precious ointment upon the head, that ran down upon the beard, even priestly Aaron's beard: that went down to the skirts of his garments;" For we all are touched by Grace and become ONE with the Lord. I said, ONE with the LORD JESUS! Amen! Can I get an Amen?"
To which, the congregation replied, "Amen!"
"And then you will know, and then, you will see clearly now that which had been hidden by the concerns of the mortal world. The Christ within. That is within all of us and waiting to come out. This ointment runs down my wool, it can run down your fur, down your feathers, and down your scales too! Embrace the Lord! Embrace PEACE! Verily I say unto you that, there WILL be life forever more! The Bible assures me! The Holy Word of GOD Himself!"
To which, the congregation replied, "Amen!"
"Now the question remains, my brothers and sisters, how do we create that frame of mind here, on this planet? How do we bring this time closer to now than speaking of some time and some place in the future? I tell you all now, this feeling you have in your soul, in your heart, can be brought to the mortal world! The Kingdom of Heaven can be in the here and now!"
To which, the congregation replied, "Amen!"
"I say unto you that if you reflect that soul of the Christ within, those around you will feel the love and hope that the Lord provides, and thus, people will voluntarily choose to emulate you!"
To Which, the congregation replied, "Amen!"
"Reflect not a world of hate, discrimination, a fixation on particular verses of The Book to the exclusion of others; you don't have to agree with the choices a fellow creature makes to love them; to show them the example of love and forgiveness which is the soul of what it means to be CHRISTIAN. Be this, and others will see it."
"Where you see love, you are love. When you are love, you reflect the person of Christ Jesus. All the paths converge...."
"And we shall all live together in unity on that Holy day! Can I get an Amen, brothers and sisters? AMEN! AMEN! AMEN! AMEN to the Lord Jesus CHRIST!"
"My Sermon today is on an ancient text, yet very topical for the times. Today I speak on the 133 rd Psalm. Who is here today, to hear the word of God?"
"Kentrosaurus is here!" declared Kentrosaurus. "You will speak the truth, as I know you to be a prophet of the Most High."
"We also have as a guest my cousin Wuerhosaurus, who has floated forthrightly all the way from China in his slow boat."
"Thank you for the introduction, Cousin," said Wuerhosaurus.
"I had to start out in August, but I made it in time. My good old boat is good, but she's slow." said Wuerhosaurus."As a Buddhist, I feel the path to self fulfillment comes from a deep and personal introspection but I have come to spend this season visiting my cousins, so I am here to hear this sermon, knowing that there are many paths to the same Source."
"How interesting that you should bring this up given the topic of the Sermon this morning," observed Woolly Mammoth.
"Quagga is here as well," said Sister Quagga. "At this festive time of year it is pleasant to be among friends."
"Western Black Rhino is present, too. I'm adjusting to this being extinct thing, but I really don't like it. I think maybe a good sermon will cheer me and be uplifting."
"We also have visiting from New Zealand, a flock of Upland Moa Birds," observed Quagga.
"Welcome,one and all!" said Woolly Mammoth.
"We are glad to be here, thank you for having us," said Upland Moa.
"Kentrosaurus, where are Lexovissaurus and Loricatosaurus?" asked Woolly Mammoth.
"Lexovissaurus and Loricatosaurus are not here; they are visiting Canada."
"Where is Stegosaurus?" Woolly Mammoth rejoined his interlocutor.
"He is studying for a test in his college class," replied Kentrosaurus.
"Very well," replied the Woolly Preaching Pachyderm. "Let the sermon begin, my children."
To which, the congregation replied, "Amen."
"I want to talk to you this morning about the 133 rd Psalm. Though written by King David in ancient times, it is very current and speaks to us today. If we listen, it can help us, indeed. Let me explain to you now, my brothers and sisters in Christ."
To which, the congregation replied, "Amen."
"When you consider the world today, all the divisions, the polarized contentions, errors so strong in conviction that listening and learning is seemingly impossible, it is well to remember the words of this Psalm. In frustration you may think, what can I do, when no one will listen, and you know you are not the one in error? Take comfort in this ancient yet timely advice:
"Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!" For beyond this mortal coil, higher above than the cold land of extinction, is a holy land of peace and brotherhood that heals divisions, that opens the ears that were stopp'd and the eyes that were blinded to see the Grace .... the Holy Grace of the Most High God Jesus Christ who will come to those who suffer and who are downtrodden and say, " Come. When you have accepted me, you will know peace and you will be one in the heart of the Father! AMEN! Can I hear you say it with me, AMEN! AMEN! Brothers and sisters, Amen!
To which, the congregation replied, "Amen!"
"You can make that world a part of your daily life here and now by accepting Christ Jesus into your heart! By this small concession you have the power to bring about without that which you see within: The Blessings of Jesus the Christ redeemer of mammal and dinosaur alike!
Verily, I say unto you brothers and sisters, "It is like the precious ointment upon the head, that ran down upon the beard, even priestly Aaron's beard: that went down to the skirts of his garments;" For we all are touched by Grace and become ONE with the Lord. I said, ONE with the LORD JESUS! Amen! Can I get an Amen?"
To which, the congregation replied, "Amen!"
"And then you will know, and then, you will see clearly now that which had been hidden by the concerns of the mortal world. The Christ within. That is within all of us and waiting to come out. This ointment runs down my wool, it can run down your fur, down your feathers, and down your scales too! Embrace the Lord! Embrace PEACE! Verily I say unto you that, there WILL be life forever more! The Bible assures me! The Holy Word of GOD Himself!"
To which, the congregation replied, "Amen!"
"Now the question remains, my brothers and sisters, how do we create that frame of mind here, on this planet? How do we bring this time closer to now than speaking of some time and some place in the future? I tell you all now, this feeling you have in your soul, in your heart, can be brought to the mortal world! The Kingdom of Heaven can be in the here and now!"
To which, the congregation replied, "Amen!"
"I say unto you that if you reflect that soul of the Christ within, those around you will feel the love and hope that the Lord provides, and thus, people will voluntarily choose to emulate you!"
To Which, the congregation replied, "Amen!"
"Reflect not a world of hate, discrimination, a fixation on particular verses of The Book to the exclusion of others; you don't have to agree with the choices a fellow creature makes to love them; to show them the example of love and forgiveness which is the soul of what it means to be CHRISTIAN. Be this, and others will see it."
"Where you see love, you are love. When you are love, you reflect the person of Christ Jesus. All the paths converge...."
"And we shall all live together in unity on that Holy day! Can I get an Amen, brothers and sisters? AMEN! AMEN! AMEN! AMEN to the Lord Jesus CHRIST!"
Sunday, September 20, 2015
170-Million-Year-Old 'Fish Lizard' Fossil Unearthed in Scotland
Ichthyosaur goes boom! Or did it?
Earth's Worst Mass Extinction Preserved Ancient Footprints
The Myanmar Jerdon's Babbler is alive and well!
Woolly Mammoth DNA Inserted into Elephant Cells
Dinosaur 'Romeo and Juliet' Found Buried Together
Ichthyosaur goes boom! Or did it?
Earth's Worst Mass Extinction Preserved Ancient Footprints
The Myanmar Jerdon's Babbler is alive and well!
Woolly Mammoth DNA Inserted into Elephant Cells
Dinosaur 'Romeo and Juliet' Found Buried Together
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