Random thoughts

by Tami Rudkin
Wednesday, April 23, 2008 9:43 AM MDT

I just spent five days with a group of girlfriends. We went shopping, we ate, we sat in the sun, we ate, we went shopping, we ate, we sat in the sun, and we ate.

Oh, and the other thing that we did, nonstop, was talk. I know that is hard to imagine, but it’s true.

We talked about all kinds of things: kids, houses, shoes, music, movies, jewelry, the elections, proms and a million other things.

We didn’t have a theme for the long weekend or an agenda … it was all random, good hearted, laced with laughter, chatting.

Consequently, my mind is so full today that I am having a hard time deciding what to write about.

So why don’t I let you in on a few of these random thoughts floating around in my head this last full week of April 2008?

Please go easy on me because what you are about to read is casual and not necessarily my final, set in concrete, convictions.

So here we go …

My son is going to prom this weekend. He is our extrovert child and loves a party! So he will have a great time, and I am happy for him.

However, I’m not thrilled with all of the hoopla or the number of formal dances our kids have in this city. Since when do ninth-graders need to rent tuxes, buy expensive dresses, choose flowers and hire a driver (since they can’t drive yet)?

Why not a few informal dances that promote fun, but don’t necessitate taking out a loan to enjoy?

And, while I am on this subject, have you seen some of the dresses our teenage girls wear to these dances? They are beautiful, trendy and cover so little from the waist up. What ever happened to modesty?

The election coverage is driving me crazy! I watched the Clinton-Obama debate last week and was amazed. I heard double-talk, talk about distractions and knife in the back talk.

But I’m not sure if I heard talk on the real issues. What are the real issues anyway?

All I know is that gas at the pumps is really expensive and that I’ve been shocked to learn that there is still so much angst and anger surrounding race issues in our country.

The incident of September 11th isn’t ever far from my mind nor the fact that so many in the Middle East appear to hate our guts. And, honestly, I really don’t want to pay anymore taxes than I already do.

The pope’s visit to our country has been remarkable. President Bush welcomed him, and his position of distinction, in the fashion he deserves. Pope Benedict obviously is kind and wise and godly.

I am thankful today for the words of blessing he has said over America and the affirmation of our God-centered beginnings. I’m giving him a standing ovation in my heart and mind.

My heart is full today. I have parents who love me, aunt and uncles who always have believed in me, in-laws who are lovely and warm hearted, a husband who is faithfully committed to me and God, and I have three kids who give me such great joy.

I hardly could ask for more … and yet, God has given to me in excess. I live in the greatest country in the world. I have freedom to pray and worship when and where I want to.

I own a beautiful home and have a job that is fulfilling. My kids will have the opportunity to go to college and pursue their own dreams.

And, I have friends who will let me randomly ramble. Thank you and God bless.

(Larry and Linda Kloster sponsor this column.)

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