Sacred Heart University Alumni Authors Showcase

Please come and see me on March 19 at 6:30 p.m. at Sacred Heart University in the Schine Auditorium. I will be presenting my books, along with two other authors, answering questions, and having a book signing. Please register at the link below if you plan to come. The event is free.

Click on link to register for this event; it's free!

Thank You For My Children

Please enjoy my poem as you reflect upon the people in your life that you love so much. These thoughts came to my mind tonight as I was looking through some old photos. Yes, I'm getting older, and so is my family, but what wonderful memories we share, with hopefully many more to come!  Life is precious, and it's good to remember that for better or worse, the chapter you're living in now will eventually come to a close, and a new chapter starts. When you know the Lord, you can have peace and joy in the midst of those days of suffering and trials, knowing there are brighter days ahead. I know I have experienced that throughout the years. Persevere, and take some time to thank God for the blessings great and small that He has showered you with in your life.

Thank You For My Children

By Dawn Foss

Thank you for my children,

So precious through and through;

And all the time together,

What a gift from You!

I cherish all the memories

As I look back meditating,

So thankful for the good times,

But see how much we’re aging!

How quickly time flies by

While we’re having so much fun;

Thinking back of old times,

I really had my run.

I met so many people,

That mean a lot to me;

Chapters in my life

Are a fading memory.

Fun trips and vacations

Were welcome times to rest;

Amusements Parks and rides,

Nature walks were just the best.

So thankful for the photos

That bring back into play,

The life once lived upon

A time, another day.

Bittersweet it feels,

To watch the children grow;

Wonderful to see,

But life winds down, we know.

Sadness could embrace

This weary heart of mine,

But I know better really,

The future is sublime!

The story truly ends

In blessings evermore;

That even though we age,

God has much more in store.

My family ever loved

Is always near my heart.

The Lord brings inner youth

Like a fresh, renewing start.

I thank you, Lord, for all

You’ve given me to love,

May that keep passing forward

To reflect Your love above.

"Into My Heart"

There's a song that says, "Into my heart, into my heart, come into my heart Lord Jesus..."  We say that phrase a lot.  "I asked Jesus to come into my heart."  As a child I pondered on that statement, and wondered how Jesus could actually enter into my heart in my chest and live there, like a little man in my shiny red heart. It was similar to when I wondered how all those little people got into the TV.  I remember wanting to look at the back of the TV to see if there was a door!  Don't worry: I was quite young at the time!

Well, as we all know, the phrase "Jesus came into my heart" is symbolism for trusting Him as my Savior.  But what does that really mean?

This week I received three gifts: a chapter of a manuscript someone is writing, so I could review it and give my input. I also received a poem from a friend that was written by her friend who passed away, and she asked me if I could put a tune to it and make it into a song. I also received a poem that someone wrote for school, and asked me if I'd look it over.  I felt honored and privileged to be asked to look at their works, and also grateful that I can give back because there were so many people who took time out of their busy schedules to help me, read my manuscripts and poems and give me their input, cheering me on all the way.

One thing that really occurred to me as I read their works is that I am getting a glimpse through the window of their hearts, their souls. The authors of these works have shared something from within them, a sacred place, a unique perspective, an intimate setting.  I thought about it more, and realized that no one can get into that secret place without permission.  Some people keep deep, dark secrets in their hearts. Some people carry emotions, hurts, fears, and burdens that no one ever sees. And then let's face it; some people practically lay everything in their heart out in the open with very little inhibition!  But it's their heart, their choice, and I guarantee there is more to that person than meets the eye.

That's what it means to enter someone's heart. To be let in, invited, requesting the honor of your presence or the pleasure of your company into what matters most to you, the real you, who you really are, what you really feel, that natural honesty. Not every work of an author is about what's in their heart, as some works are a reflection of their imagination or education, but it's still from within, a very individual perspective and source.

This is an example of what it must mean to the Lord to have open access to our inward parts. Psalm 51:6: "Behold, thou desirest truth in the inward parts: and in the hidden part thou shalt make me to know wisdom."

Have you had that moment of truth with Jesus? Have you let Him in, so He can see who you really are? Have you opened up and been honest with Him as He knocks on the door of your heart? Revelation 3:20:
 "Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me." Jesus was talking to the church, but the principle applies to us as well. I believe the purpose for our being born is to enjoy sweet fellowship with God. He has work for us to do, but not without first inviting Him in to be in our secret place so He can commune with us with honesty and transparency. He desires repentance (agreeing with God about your sin and turning from it 180 degrees) of your sin so He can save you, purify you, and give you abundant life, saving you not only from eternal punishment and death in Hell, but to give you eternal life that starts now. He loves you and me. Will you invite Jesus to come into your heart and soul, into the true you, to be your Savior and Friend?  He's the greatest; you can trust Him, and as you learn more about Him, you won't be able to help but love and adore Him every day of your life.

If my life were a Bible story...

I was pondering this morning about the brevity and constant changing of our lives. As I look back at the past 5-10 years, there have been so many changes, so many people who have come in and out of my life. I have made decisions that will impact the rest of my life. Looking forward in the next 5-10 years, there will be many more changes. People retiring, dying, getting new diagnoses, moving away, getting married, having children, etc. I thought about constants, and how God never changes, and how He is a faithful friend who will be in my life no matter what my external, or even internal circumstances.

As I pondered more about my own life, I thought about the path I have gone down so far. As an 8 year old little girl, I learned about Jesus, asked him to forgive me for my sins and be my Savior, and gave my life to Him. That was a huge turning point in my life, and set the course for good things on down the road. Oh, the hard times came and went along the way, just like they would have otherwise, but I had my best Friend with me the whole way. God gave me the strength and comfort I needed, and also placed good people in my life to guide me and support me through it all. I had cheerleaders who cheered me in life's race from the sidelines, encouraging me to keep going strong, not to quit.

When my life is said and done, what kind of story will it tell?  I was thinking about the Bible stories I love so much, and the people written in the Bible who were real people just like you and me.  Some were only mentioned in a verse or two. Some had chapters or books written about their lives. If my life were a Bible story, would it say, "She did what she could, and she will always be remembered for this act", just like the woman with the alabaster box?  Will it say she was faithful to the Lord all the days of her life, and she lived a long life, and was buried with her family?  I don't want it to read that she was faithful, and then fell into sin and ruined her life!

David was such a hero, and as I taught my Sunday School class about him, they were all so sad and bewildered when we got to the part where he committed adultery and then murder. The rest of his life from then on lacked the greatness that he once had for the Lord, but he did repent and did what he could to help his son build a great temple for God. I want to endure to the end, be strong and never quit, never give up. I want to be a hero that my Sunday school kids and my children can look up to. We need heroes in this life, people who won't fall by the wayside. We need to encourage each other to this end.

What kind of story would your life be if it were a Bible story? Will you have gone through mountains and valleys like Joseph, but then in the end be promoted to a great position and save a nation or your family? Will your life read that you followed the ways of your father, and did evil in the sight of the Lord? Or you did not follow the ways of your father, and did that which was right in the sight of the Lord? Or perhaps you have a long line of faithful men and women in your family, and you continue to carry the torch.  Will you have done hard things like Esther, and risked your life to save people, and have a victory story that everyone can celebrate? Will you be like Paul who lived a life of hypocrisy and murder, but then met Jesus, and even with all the trials he endured, served the Lord faithfully to the very end, being a very real witness through it all?  Will your life be a constant that people can look to, to know that God does matter to you, and that living a life faithful to the Lord is the best journey ever?

Something to ponder on this snowy day today. Praise the Lord for his wonderful mercies and grace to us every day!  God bless you as you walk with Him.

Primary and Secondary Respect

One of life's basic needs is love. It is a very big need, and comes in many forms. It might be shown in spending time with someone, helping them out, buying them gifts, saying nice things to them, or physical affection.  The Five Love Languages is a great book that explores the various love languages that people have, so you can in essence speak their language.  If what makes them feel loved is buying them gifts, then painting the deck doesn't say, "I love you", for example. Everyone is different, and may have more than one love language, but it's essential to get to know the person you love so that you can best communicate that love to them.

There is also a great book called, Love and Respect.  The basic idea in that book is that women need to be loved, and men need to be respected. When each is doing their job, everyone is happy. However, how can you really show love to someone if you don't treat them with respect? Guys, women need to be treated with respect, too. It's a thing of basic human dignity.

In Sunday School today, I was mentioning to my 1st-6th grade boys and girls about respect. Our lesson was about Adam and Eve, but while one of the students was asking a question, she was interrupted by another student. She harshly condemned him for being rude and interrupting her. However, her words to him were also very rude. It was time for a life lesson right then and there on respect...by both of them.

This comes on the brink of a recent interaction in which I was treated very rudely by a demanding patient. Even while driving on the road, people cut in front of you and speed around you and make gestures that are very rude. People can become very impatient in a very short time, probably as a result of our fast paced society and hectic schedules. But is that an excuse for mistreating someone?

I spoke with my daughters about how we should respect everyone, but as I said it, the phrase "earn your respect" came to mind. That's true - we do lose respect for people, and with good reason. So are we to respect everyone, or do they have to earn it?

What about the "screaming mimi's", as I like to call them, the mothers who scream and yell at their kids across a crowded grocery store?  Or the wife who treats her husband like he's her 5 year old son? Or the husband who verbally (and perhaps even physically) abuses his wife and/or kids?  What about the parent who speaks to the kids in a condescending way, swearing at them or calling them derogatory names? How about the brothers and sisters who treat each other like an enemy with hurting, cutting words that last a lifetime? What about people making fun of the president, boss, teacher or other people in authority? What about kids who talk to their parents as if they were the scum of the earth? Or elderly patients who are treated by the aides like they are a piece of garbage, an annoyance that is wasting their time? Is there an age when it's OK to treat someone poorly, with sarcasm and even hatred, such as someone younger than you or very old? What if they disagree with you? Is it OK to belittle them because they are so "stupid"?

Is the old saying true: "Sticks and stones may break my bones, but names will never hurt me"? What a false proclamation!

I like to think of it as primary and secondary respect.  Primary respect is what belongs to everyone. It is deserved just because we are human beings made in the image of God. I would extend that to animals, too, because they are alive and have feelings. We have a responsibility to care for this planet, and that includes the animals. People who abuse animals are abusive; yes, even if it is just toward animals. Abusers of animals often will eventually extend that to abusers of humans as well. It's OK to eat animals, but while they are alive they should be treated well, and the way they are killed should be done quickly and as painlessly as possible.

What does primary respect look like? Common courtesy. Using manners such as please and thank you, letting someone go before you, treating them kindly, giving people the benefit of the doubt. Disciplining in a loving manner, and not with excessive force; the punishment should fit the crime. It means not being rude, even when you are speaking to someone who is close to you. It means treating other people's things even better than you would treat your own things. It means sharing and taking turns, obeying those in authority over you, working hard, and having basic character traits when dealing with other people, such as honesty, integrity, and patience. It means being able to have an intelligent conversation with someone, and even if disagreeing with them, still being polite and allowing them to have their turn to speak. It means treating someone weaker than you with greater care...because they're weak! Doesn't that make sense? Don't take advantage of someone because they're weak, but rather defend them, fight for them, come to their aid. This applies to anyone, even unborn babies, who cannot come to their own aid. This applies to people who you see being bullied or manipulated. If they cannot defend themselves, you be the one to step forward and either help them or get help for them. If someone is having an asthma attack, ask them where their inhaler is, and get it for them and tell the teacher. I think you get my idea - treating everyone with basic human kindness.  This is primary respect.

Secondary respect is what you give someone because of something they have done. If they are a hero, or they have accomplished something great, or achieved something, often people will respect them.  It may be a winner, an Olympic champion, a police officer, a parent, a teacher, a pastor - anyone who has earned respect because of the wonderful things they have done.  This kind of respect can be lost. A basketball hero, for example, who harms someone on purpose, or steals will lose their respect by those who once looked up to him or her.  A singer who used to set a good example but then got into drugs and messed up his or her life will lose respect by those who followed them.  Sometimes people can earn that respect back, but it may take a long time to learn to trust them again. However, primary respect still comes into play. You're not going to spit on that person, or make fun of them, or hit them if you see them.  You disagree with them and don't look up to them with respect anymore, but human dignity is still in place, and you can pray for that person. If you know them well enough, you may be able to talk to them and show them the error of their way in a kind way. You might offer suggestions on how they can get out of the hole they got themselves into.

So please purpose in your heart to treat people with primary respect and dignity always, and if you have lost secondary respect for someone, revert back to primary respect at the very least and value the sacredness of life itself. Set the example; be a contagious respecter, and it will come back to you! 

Proverbs 15:1-4: "A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger. The tongue of the wise useth knowledge aright: but the mouth of fools poureth out foolishness. The eyes of the Lord are in every place, beholding the evil and the good. A wholesome tongue is a tree of life: but perverseness therein is a breach in the spirit."

Book signing at Broad St. Books at Wesleyan University

Today I had the wonderful opportunity to do a book signing at Broad Street Books at Wesleyan University.  I was amazed at the staff; they were so hospitable, providing snacks for people visiting the table. They were so helpful, and everyone there was very respectful and kind. It snowed, so I think that kept some people away, but the people I did have the opportunity to talk to were great!  I even got to meet Wesleyan University's chaplain! He's been there for 7 years. He told me that 17% of Wesleyan students go to an organized church service once a week.

As you can see from the picture, the book store is beautiful, with a variety of books and toys for all ages. I encourage you to visit the store, located on Broad Street in Middletown.  You will be greeted by friendly staff and a warm, welcoming environment, complete with a cafe.

If you were unable to stop by the bookstore today, but would like to see a book to flip through it and even to purchase a copy, they have some copies of both I Will Stand and Christmas Love on their shelves.

God bless you!

"I Will Stand" Book Trailer commercial coming up!

Great news!  I was just given the notification that the book trailer for I Will Stand will be shown to viewers on cable TV stations during the 2nd quarter of 2014. It usually stays on until about 75,000-80,000 people see it. I'm not sure exactly when, but at least I know it's coming up. Please pray that people will see it and buy the book, and that it will make a difference in their lives for good.



This book is a great tool to help bring you into a closer walk with the Lord, and my heart's desire is that it helps many souls. It's the sweetest relationship you will ever have. That's good news, and worthy of proclamation so that everyone has that opportunity to know God better.  You will see how He desires us to live, and the results will be fulfillment and joy in every area of your life. You'll still go through hard times, but what a difference when you can go through it with peace and joy in your heart, knowing God loves you, will help you, and will work things out for your good if you love Him and are fulfilling His purpose for your life.



I am also starting to set up meetings to speak with Jr. and Sr. High students about what it's like to be an author. I'm so excited about inspiring young writers to publish books. I'd love to share all I've learned so far, as it has been quite an education!  Please pray that God will open many doors so I can meet people face to face and talk to them, encouraging them to use their talents for the Lord in a positive way, making a difference for good in the world.

Is Creationism is a viable model of origins in today’s modern scientific era?

Watch a debate with Bill Nye the Science Guy, an agnostic who does not believe Creationism is a viable model, and Ken Ham, the CEO of Answers in Genesis, who does believe Creationism is a viable model. You might not realize this, but this is a very important debate. Why? Because as you'll see in Ken Ham's discussion, the worldview you choose, a God-centered or man-centered view, will be the foundation upon which you make life's decisions.  Huge hot topics of our day such as abortion, homosexuality, euthanasia, the value for human life, etc. hinge upon the decision you make in your worldview, and it starts with origins because it starts with whether or not God is real and what He says is true. The core to this debate will answer the questions: Who am I? Where did I come from? Why am I here? Where am I going? Is there significance to this life; in other words, does what I do, think and say matter...eternally?

www.debatelive.org

For a post debate discussion with Ken Ham and Dr. Georgia Purdom, watch: www.debatelive.org/answers

Here is a link of answers for the questions posed by Bill Nye that Ken Ham did not have time to answer during the debate: http://www.answersingenesis.org/get-answers/features/debate-answers  This is a great list with comprehensive answers.

This was a great debate that was watched by millions!  One thing it has done is started intelligent discussion among people, as so many have never heard about Creationism except for some biased remarks by Evolutionist educators.  The secularists have tried to shut down discussion with a sort of censorship.  There is much evidence!  As a family nurse practitioner who also took science classes in secular colleges, I have to say that my faith in God and Creationism only grew STRONGER as I learned more about science! The Biology of the Cell course showed the intelligence and intricate design in each tiny cell - it's amazing and almost brought me to tears of admiration at times as I worshiped the Lord while reading and studying my textbooks! When you discover the beauty and complexity of the universe we live in, how can you not glorify an all-wise and all-powerful God?  I don't understand how people could look at that and not see that intelligence must come from intelligence.  There is MUCH intelligence and design and harmony in nature. The homeostasis that occurs in the human body, as one example, is so complex and beautiful.

Here is a link to Answers in Genesis: www.answersingenesis.org


Another great resource is The Institute for Creation Research: http://www.icr.org/

Another great resource is Creation Moments: http://www.creationmoments.com/ 

I have a couple comments I wanted to make after watching the debate. First, people have creation itself, as well as their own conscience, to know there is a God, even without the Bible, so that they are without excuse. He is not only made manifest in observing His handiwork, but the Bible states He is clearly understood. God is not hiding!  The question of the existence of God is not a question of science or knowledge, but rather a question of the human will. The evidence is there, but will you believe it?

Second, Christians know science and embrace it, making predictions and models.  The models and theories are not inspired by God and are subject to change as we study and research more, but God's Word is reliable and preserved and will never change.  That is a constant we can take comfort and confidence in. We find joy in science because God blessed us with His creation, and wants/expects us to study and research it. Christians do exactly that!  He gave us the hunger for knowledge, and I thank Him for it. There is no conflict with embracing the wonders and facts of science and believing in an Almighty God who created it. There is a conflict, however, to think that such a complex world came on by chance. That is not the conclusion of a reasonable person.  What a blessing to have such an amazing place to study, and greater yet, an awesome God to worship! God bless you as you take some time to get your questions answered from these great resources.

A fun Valentine poem

Last year I wrote this poem to my husband. I'm sure there are others who find that in midlife there is much busyness and chaos.  It's important not to forget to take time to have fun together!

HAVE FUN WITH ME!

By Dawn Foss

With all of the worries and all of life's pain,

With financial hardships and picnics with rain,

There's one thing I ask, one thing I plea

Don't forget this part, have fun with me!

On future events we can't place a muzzle,

But we can always do a crossword puzzle!

Watching a movie or playing a game

Makes me remember what makes us the same.

So let’s take some time to eat, play, and love,

Forget the annoying and focus above

On Who placed us together in the first place

As we run hand in hand in this crazy rat race!

A Valentine's Day poem - reflecting on enduring love!

I wrote this poem with my daughter and future son-in-law in mind.  Their love has endured hardships and trials like most early relationships never have to experience. I admire their steadfastness and faithfulness to each other, and it reflects the love that Christ has for us. He is ever faithful, forgiving, and patient with us.  I hope that your relationships reflect this same love, and if not, it's never too late to start building them stronger.

Love That Endures

By Dawn Foss

Whether male or female

One thing is very sure,

We all need someone faithful

Whose love will still endure

Through the tears and heartaches, 

Whether rich or poor,

Healthy or in sickness,

We need love to endure.

No one needs a heckler

When going through this life,

Instead we need supporters

Not ones who bring on strife.

A happy home has peace,

Encouragement and fun;

Life's pace, fast or slow,

Makes time for one on one.

A heart of love endures

Through trials, great and small,

Because the person loved

Is simply worth it all.

This love will pay attention

To the other's needs;

Selfish, rude it's not,

Through prayer it intercedes.

Love needs to show respect,

God works through both of you;

Be a partner, not a boss,

Loyalty will ensue.

A useless noise is life

That lacks enduring love;

Forgiveness, kindness, grace

Reflects God's heart above.

So when you have the honor

To know such love like this,

Let that love flow outward

To bring more joy and bliss.

Enduring, faithful love

Sends a message ever true:

That God loves all of us

Of this we can be sure.

Don't take this love for granted,

It's real, it's not pretend;

Thank the Lord for love

That endures to the very end.

May this February (which I consider "love month") be a time of rekindling your relationships in a pure way, not with strings attached or selfish motivations. Honor God by sharing His love with others. Be faithful, and set the example so the world can see the power of true love. God bless you, and Happy Valentines Day!