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The number 42 made me smile today. Today is the anniversary of my wife and my wedding day. We have been married for 42 years.
In all of that time, decades of years and nearly countless days, she never once considered divorce. Now, temper that with the unsurprising reality that murder was on the table many times. With chagrin I will admit that she was justifiably and understandably well within her rights to make that choice! We had tons of adventures that makes us smile more broadly today than we did when we began our journey together.
Just weeks after our wedding ceremony we packed up our pickup truck and drove to Dallas, Texas. Good ol’ Herman, our pickup truck, didn’t even have air conditioning. My wonderful wife melted in the Texas heat but stuck with me.
Then, we packed up our possessions and moved to our first ministry post in Portland, OR. God blessed us with our three wonderful children. Many lifelong friendships began in the city of Roses.
We crated what belongings we could and moved to Aberdeen, Scotland. Our little family had a ball in the United Kingdom. Each of the children picked up a lilting Scottish Brogue. Wonderful blessings and amazing International friends packed in Highland memories for life.
Then, it was back to Portland for season. That was followed by over a decade of sacrificial ministry in Michigan. God then led us to San Francisco, CA for more amazing service. His perfect and divinely ordered journey returned us to Texas, this time in the amazing city of Houston.
My bride has been by my side through it all: blizzards, tornadoes, earthquakes, hurricanes, and humidity. We have clung on to the best Christians in the world. Together we weathered human storms with His grace. I never would have survived without her.
She is my love, my confidant, my greatest fan, and most patient advisor. Happy Anniversary, My Love! May our Mighty and Merciful God generously grant us many more years of being in His service together. Joy!
The weather could not have been more perfect. In the Northwest, when it is not raining, you hold your breath and wonder what the weather is about to do. That day, however, it was an ideal balance of sun, warmth, and breeze; yes, perfect.
Business took me back to my alma mater. I showed up early. It was the perfect scenario for a stroll down memory lane. New buildings stood in places where I only knew woods in the past. But, the old structures that housed my early days as a collegiate were still standing, sporting fresh paint, and reorganized walls.
PV101 is the corner classroom where I was trained in my theology. My systematics were formed right here. This is where it had its genesis. 
Then, there was life in the dormitory. Great friendships that lasted a lifetime found adventure, conversation, laughter, wonderment, and fellowship in those halls. Now, the building houses the offices of a growing faculty and modern classrooms.
Naturally, I headed to the overlook that takes in the Vistas of the Willamette Valley. Many nights on a bench afforded me an audience of One. I prayed and asked God to use me, give me the discernment to see that path 
he wanted me to walk, be stirred with courage to face the troubles with faith, and help as many along the way to find their peace with God, embrace the joy of sharing his love, and satisfaction of serving the body of Christ in the church.
Decades later, the iron rail is rusty, the overlook is crumbling, CLOSED signs surround this overlook, keeping visitors from enjoying the stunning landscape. It evokes memories of many prayers, hopes, and dreams. God has been very good to me through these years and I have been honored to still be in his service.
One last memory was on my checklist. It is a hallway. In the main administration building, my classmates would find ourselves gathering for the favorite meal of the week. It was Sunday afternoon.
After church we would line the hall waiting for the cafeteria to open. Many of my friends were amazing singers. Someone would start a song and our voices and hearts would fill that hall with sounds of praise. I loved those spontaneous concerts. Memories like that are special when they imprint themselves in my mind. Come to think of it, I can still hear the singing.
photos by brucefong photography
My life has been embroiled with leadership roles for most of my adult life. The challenge to unite people, square off with great threats, achieve great gains for the organization and to resolve to press against the ever-present vehemently vicious critic are all a test of the metal that a leader is made. Reading and watching great leaders in action inspires me to keep leading with determination.
One of the great leaders in my life time has a Presidential Library in Simi Valley, California. Visiting this museum and library of this leader was on my life list. I was able to check it off with great satisfaction.
After entering the gorgeous grounds with breathtaking views, I remember pausing long at a portrait of President Ronald Reagan as he walked down one of the halls of the White House. There is something special about leadership that can never be taught and this President possessed it in generous quantity. It is called “leadership presence.”
There is very little about “leadership presence” that is external. Instead, it is what exists in the soul of the man or woman who drives their choices, directs their initiatives and most of all manages the values the define their leadership commitments. Reagan’s beliefs marked his life and leadership.
When a leader faces pressures and attacks, he or she must be able to draw from their own convictions to make choices and decisions to protect and advance the best interests of the organization that they lead. That is what leadership is. Anticipation and reaction based upon a consistent set of values that others can follow and embrace.
The influence of this President was also balanced with a whimsical ability to engage the lives of international leaders from around the globe. His control of power was never carelessly dismissed but blended with discernment, resolve and vision. He thought the best of this nation and devoted himself to lead it to become better and more positively influential in the world.
If blessing is accompanied with responsibility, then this great leader acted well in light of the extraordinary blessings given to the nation by Almighty God. He could win the respect and cooperation of the opposing party, sooth the angry critic or stand stalwart against the belligerent opponent. President Ronald Reagan was a uniquely effective leader and one of the most remarkably gifted Presidents in our nation’s history.
photo credit: brucefong photography
It is illegal to be in possession of a moon rock. There is an international regulation on these remarkable minerals from our moon. Certainly, it keeps the criminal element from crowding in on these very limited items.
But, NASA has a remarkable display for us average citizens. Any guests to Houston can travel to the Johnson Space Center and take a tour of the grounds. Inside the main tourist center is a display of the journey to the moon.
A special section is set apart for the moon rocks. Everything is tightly secure. Even the entrance vault door is impressive.
Inside the safe room is a laboratory-like area. Thick glass separates the viewing area from actually
quarantined space for the minerals brought back from space. Displays show how the rocks are examined and the findings of the experiments are presented for easy reading.
I was alive when the American astronauts went to the moon. Like the rest of America and for much of the world, I was glued to the TV. We each followed the space engineering lessons, hung on every report and prayed for the safety of these brave men.
Then, there was that moment of truth. The lunar module had landed. Neil Armstrong stepped on to the surface of the moon.
Americans wept. They were tears of pride and elation. Everyone was talking about this historic moment.
The scientists and engineers did not rest. Meticulously they oversaw the experiments and collection of samples. They brought back to earth 48.5 pounds of moon rocks.
Each of the fifty United States received a sample. The presentation included a commemorative state flag that went to the moon. A small sample of rock pieces were attached to the display.
These rocks were encased in a marble-sized acrylic ball. They were tiny but their unique origin made
the presentation special. Most states have their presentation safely secured in a museum for the public to see.
In Houston at the NASA center a special display has a moon rock for the public to touch. It is about an inch and a half long. The display has the rock glued to a large acrylic display stand. Visitors can reach through the display and literally touch the stone.
My first two visits to the center were crowded with masses of people. This time I not only saw the rock I also got near the stone. I touched it. The moon rock had been christened with a Fongster touch.
photo credit: brucefong photography
My visit to this remarkable place was not brand new. I had been here once in the past. A year ago during the opening month, I was here with the pressing crowds.
This time the visit was much more enjoyable. The lines had shrunk to our scheduled window printed on our tickets. We wanted to catch a look at the additional wing of the George Bush Presidential Library.
On our first visit the crowds had packed the museum. We skipped the Oval Office wing due to the very long lines. This time we got to the museum close to the opening hour.
We skipped the opening sequence of pictures and videos. 43 traces his entry into the White House. He shares the events that shaped his Presidency.
The next stop was the initial years leading the nation. Laura’s focus on literacy and George’s past with baseball was fun. We lingered here again as we did during our first trip.
When we rounded the corner determined to visit what we missed a year ago, our swift walk slowed to an eventual halt. In the center of the display were some of the twisted I-beams retrieved from the rubble of the Twin Towers destroyed during the 9-11 attack on our country. Pictures, videos and audio presentations swirled the deep feelings from that horrible day.
The words of President George Bush defined so much of his leadership and one our nation’s rare moments of unity. Together we drew together as a nation. Politics were quieted.
Yes, the haranguing between Washington D.C. professional biased parties drummed the cadence of a nation that would stand together against an external threat. Our nation even gathered for prayer and services that called on the name of God. Hymns were sung.
Evil people who launched a wicked lethal attack against innocent civilians had polluted the soil of our nation with their dastardly plans. Terror had taken advantage of a free nation and free people. There was no bravery or chivalry by these who stole, plotted and murdered.
My eyes scanned these old pieces of twisted steel. I listened to President Bush speak to our nation and the world. He spoke on our behalf and promised to do his duty to bring all of our nation’s strength to bear against the cowards who unleashed an ugly cowardly act of war on our country.
Always remember. This picture of steel will be in my mind forever. My spirit is stirred.
photo credit: brucefong photography
Today Old Glory takes center stage. She is ready and fills her role with vigor. As a symbol of sacrifice for freedom, stanchion for liberty and beacon of hope these flags will flutter throughout our country and call all of us citizens to celebrate what we all enjoy today.
This is a good celebration. It is a needed recognition. During this special day the elements of a divided people quiet down and what we share in common rises to the level of attention. Each of us is reminded of why we can share great cheer.
July 4, 2014 could be a low water mark if we let it. When trouble surrounds us, danger heightens or distractions claim more notoriety than they deserve Americans can discern and decide. There is no quit, no “give up” nor any “throw in the towel” in Americana.
Blessing has been imbedded in our nation’s very core. No one claims that we are better than any other people or country. However, we humbly acknowledge that we have been given great privilege.
This recognition is American exceptionalism. We did not generate it ourselves. It was given to us and we are grateful.
When blessing is a part of your life you do not flaunt it or insult others because of it. It is what we elevate as a fuel for our humility and generosity toward others. Furthermore, we correct those who mistakenly criticize it as arrogance.
The USA has been shown great favor in its history. Great people, stunning circumstances and remarkable turn of events in history have no explanation other than the unmistakable intervention of God’s gracious and kind hand touching our country. Who would not celebrate such goodness?
Our recent history has tested our great nation. Trouble in the world has hurt American families. Squabbles among those in a position to lead have discouraged many. Debt has loaded the minds of the responsible with concern.
Yet, this nation has not buckled. It has not given up. Voices have not been silenced.
That is why we can still celebrate today. Liberty gives allowances for those who have different ideas. Freedom means that contrast in initiatives can be explored.
Our vote gives us the variation of choice. Exceptionalism shows us how strong the fabric of our people is when the breadth of pursuit is allowed to express itself. We respect the rules and laws that give others a chance.
Nevertheless, the people keep speaking up. The moorings of liberty have limits. Tolerance is not acquiescence.
Keep strong America. Gather your strength once more. Hold on to the treasure of blessing. God gave it. Let this gift be at the heart of keeping us strong.
Happy Birthday, USA!
photo credit: brucefong photography
Joshua 15-17
Part 1 of 6
For over 20 years I was part of the Portland Trailblazer NBA Rip City “fanmania”. It was the only professional sports franchise in the city. That alone qualified all the citizens of our city to concentrate their passion for sports on this collection of giant athletes.
1984 was smack in the middle of those cheerleading years. All of us learned about the lingering effects of yesteryear’s decisions. Decades after those choices were made Blazer fans cringe when they hear that year mentioned.
First, after the Bill Walton years, the Blazers believed that they needed a dominant center to repeat as NBA champions. In that 84 draft they tried to persuade Patrick Ewing to leave Georgetown early so that the Blazers could select him. That is a league violation that precipitated a $250,000 fine. Groan!
Second, a coin flip would determine which team chose first; either the Houston Rockets or the Blazers. The Blazers decided to call “tails” but the coin landed on heads. Consequently, the Rockets chose Hakeem Olajuwon who became a nemesis to the Blazers during his whole career. Another “groan”!
Third, the Blazers stuck to their priority of drafting a center. When they chose second they picked Sam Bowie. The Chicago Bulls chose next with the 3rd overall pick selecting Michael Jordan. That may have been the biggest groan heard around the world.
Make your choices today with care. They have an affect that lingers into the future. Discernment in our spiritual lives is very much a part of that lasting impact of today’s choices.
More later…
Joshua 12-14
Part 3 of 6
Life needs moments to pause from busyness and reflect. In these times of assessment reviewing what has happened brings meaning into life. God gives Israel a chance to remember the blessings under the leadership of both Moses and now Joshua.
The victories that God gave to Moses on the East side of the Jordan River are rehearsed. Then, a review of Joshua’s victories is revisited. It is fascinating that Joshua’s victories are over 16 kings in the South and 15 kings in the North.
In the book of Joshua there were not 31 battles recorded for us to read. These actual numbers are accurate but clearly the record of these battles was selective. Only certain ones are included in the Inspired account.
These battles show that the people of Israel are becoming a nation. Every nation needs two things: a constitution and real estate. The constitution was the Law of Moses. Now, the Land that God was giving the people would be their real estate.
More later…
2012 was a year that many remembered for a brief moment. Destined to be a forgettable moment of temporary horror, we languished in the feeling of helplessness. The emotion drove us all to ask what we could have done to prevent the loss, but we were impotent.
None of us had the power to stand against the apparent tide of the inevitable. Had the time for this step into the future a resignation of a necessary loss? Who was to blame for this iconic devastation of Americana?
Yes, the “Twinkies” was going the way of the Gooney bird. News of this demise blanketed the news broadcasts. Sadly, parodies of this passing gave the comedic voices plenty of material in the month of November.
There was no outcry from the health industry spokes persons. Quietly, their march toward an organic-only society was swallowing up every mom and pops operation in the nation. This was a major swipe at forced health bias in recent current events.
Memorial services played out in every region of the nation. The farewells were sincere. Many adults recalled fond memories of their childhood lunch bucket having the golden snack prominently placed on top of the PB&J sandwich.
Then, like the passing of familiar friend, life returns to normal. Presence turns into memories. Memories fade into living with adjustments.
However, the world was awakened to entrepreneurs who captured the meaning behind the memories. Within the next year there was a major move to buy the brand. Clearly the brand had demonstrated its universal impact on this nation and the world.
No other competitive product rose to fill the void. How strong can a brand actually be? This was historic!
Details of the sweeping acquisition brought back nostalgic smiles. Eyes sparkled at the news. Conversations shifted and talked up the change in events.
Comedians found more material for their late night sets. People laughed. Yet, with so much “good” humor, everyone knows that there is truth behind the punch line.
It is back. The Twinkies, not unlike the animated Minions on the despicable silver screen, is back on grocery shelves. In my duties as the motor behind the grocery cart, I paused and gazed at the golden sponge cakes with the creamy fillings and paid a moment of cheer at their return.
In a respectful gesture, I picked up a package. Then, I turned it over, read the ingredients, put it back on the shelf and kept on moving. I felt good that the Twinkie had returned.
photo credit: brucefong cellphone photography
I have been fascinated with visits to Presidential Libraries. The history and the pride for our nation are found in these special archives. They are tributes to the many lives that stood with a single man in order to give him the strength, encouragement and support to be the primary decision-maker for the greatest nation on earth.
While the name of one man is engraved on the stonework at the entrance to these magnificent facilities, the faces of many family, friends and supporters are evident throughout the displays. Special moments in history are captured in the memorabilia. Modern film, computer graphics and audio clips help us relive those critical times.
Ever since President George W. Bush wrote a personal letter back to me, I have been eager to know more about him. I watched him through two terms of leadership and how he weathered the onslaught of political criticism with grace. His faith championed his spirit as a gentleman.
No one who serves in that highest office of the land wants to be a wartime president. Yet, history rarely gives that man the choice but instead imposes the circumstances of a hostile world on him. 9-11 was one of those horrible events for Dubya.
In his Library and Museum, there is a display of the twisted I-beams from the World Trade Center early on in the tour. It is a sacred moment for visitors. This location in the building gathers somber souls who relive that tragic day. Videos are on a loop for people to capture the timeline of those days.
Testimonies from people who were there are stirring to the listeners. Stories of President Bush’s encouragement, leadership and direction for the nation gave us all hope, fortitude and national resolve. I was glad that he was the one that God chose to lead us through those ugly times.
Openly and certainly, President Bush credits his faith in God for his greatest help as he led the nation. This was not a courtesy that he spoke of to engender favor among Americans but a real faith that gave direction to his own soul. Some aspects of Americana are deeply appreciated by the citizens of this great land, one being true faith in the One and Only True God.
Compassion and definitive actions marked this man’s presidency. History tells the story accurately. Real facts, real faith and real heart will forever be the commentary on the lives of George and Laura Bush.
photo credit: brucefong photography
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