Thursday, December 2, 2010

Thursday the day of change






We had our first real flushing toilet at the ranch today, for most of our volunteers that's as good as it needs to get. But for James who would not use one of our deluxe model supremo Porto potties this is the day that the Lord has made being at the ranch a whole lot more enjoyable. As water starts to flow and our sewer system runs down hill we are starting to feel a whole lot more civilized all the time.

Please keep the ranch in mind as you plan your year end giving. The ranch is at the stage that it is at because of friends like you that have chosen to give into God's work here out at the Battle River Ranch.

The very idea of just giving money away injures the heart of capitalism, right? "Why should I part with my hard-earned money," you may say. "I've worked hard for it and I intend to keep it." point, but let me explain some things to you.

1 - Helping others give you a sense of pride knowing that you have the means to let go of some of your wealth and still have plenty left for your needs.

2 - It feels good to know that someone is worse off than you are and you have the means to help. Taking a look occasionally at all you have gives you more of a perspective on how fortunate you really are.

3 - If you can part with money, you know that money isn't the most important thing in your life.

4 - Think of it as a kind of hedge fund. If you contribute now, the organization will still be there for you in the future if you or your loved ones should have to use its services such as the "Teen Challenge " charity. After all, we all know some one affected by drug and alcohol abuse!

5 - If you have faith in a cause, as the old adage goes, "Put your money where your mouth is." Support what you believe in. The charity cannot survive long if people like you fail to support it monetarily. Ask yourself how you would feel if that charity did cease for lack of support, your support. You may have a moral responsibility here, so take time to consider the consequences of your actions or neglect thereof.

6 - To some, the best reason of all is that you can take most donations off your taxes. This fact alone may be all you need to donate more than just your time. This gesture of generosity comes right back to your own advantage and you don't have long to wait for the old "what goes around, comes around."

7 - Just knowing that someone is benefiting from your kindness can be a self -validating experience. You know that you have intrinsic value but it's nice to have it reaffirmed.

8 - Being a part of something larger than you yourself can give you a kind of comfort or sense of belonging.

9 - Caring gets your mind off your own troubles, for awhile anyway.

10 - Remember the phrase "Charity begins at home"?
Well, it begins in your home.
You know what will happen if you leave the funding of your favorite charities in the hands of other people.
It may or may not get accomplished.
You don't want the future of your charity to be left in the hands of strangers. This argument alone should get you running to phone, grabbing the nearest pen and your checkbook, or getting online to donate something somewhere.

If you are considering donating to your favorite charity, remember to give what you can. Don't be cheap, but don't "give the farm away" either. Be generous, but don't cause yourself financial hardship. You don't want to become a recipient of the charity to which you have just donated.

Thank you once again for taking the time to view our blog.The Battle River Ranch Camp is a non profit organization that is focused on developing trades, life skills and training opportunities for men and women that are searching and find it difficult to get the opportunities needed to develop a productive life skill. Many men and women today have no idea what they could be good at or how to find out their possible skill area or level. We are a faith based training center.

Harold and Diane Stephan left a life filled with addictions and bad choices. Their journey has taken them through different twelve step programs and life recovery through a relationship and healing process with Jesus Christ. If it were not for caring people in their lives that never gave up on them or thought they were a hopeless cause they too would still be lost.

We would love to hear from you and if you feel this is a program and facility that would help you or someone that you know, or you would like to be more involved with a ministry like this or support it financially we would love to talk to you and would very much appreciate your help in what ever way you can.

This is a ministry for those that have a heart and desire to make a difference in the lives of others with the skills and gifts they have been blessed with and have a desire to pass on what they know to the next generation.

You are always welcome to visit and we look forward to your input. This ministry is prayer based, and we pray daily for the needs of others, if you have a need for prayer and not sure where to start give us a call and we will confidentially support and help you in this area. You may not know a lot about God but God knows everything about you and He loves you more than anyone can or ever will.

God Bless You and Your Family!!!
Harold & diane Stephan and
Board of Directors of the Battle River Ranch Camp


1 comment:

  1. It's great to see that you found a plumber. LOL!

    ReplyDelete