The Beacon
BLUE MOUND UMC JULY 2024
Symbols of the Nation and America’s Independence Day
1. American Flag: The American flag is a powerful embodiment of the
nation’s unity and resilience. Its vibrant colors represent important values such as
bravery, purity, and justice. As a symbol of freedom and prosperity, the flag holds
particular significance on the 4th of July, reminding us of the sacrifices made by those
who fought to protect it and the ideals it represents.
2. Fireworks: For centuries, fireworks have been a beloved tradition in
America’s July 4th celebrations. Contrary to popular belief, the first fireworks display
on Independence Day did not take place in 1776 but rather a year later, in
1777. Nonetheless, these stunning displays have become an iconic symbol of
America’s limitless creativity and ingenuity, lighting up the skies and inspiring
generations of Americans.
3. Bald Eagle: America’s national bird, the bald eagle, symbolizes the
timeless qualities of freedom, strength, and independence. With its majestic wingspan
and piercing gaze, it stands as an indomitable representation of the American
spirit. For generations, this magnificent creature has inspired awe and admiration,
reminding us of the boundless potential that lies ahead for America and its people.
4. Liberty Bell: The Liberty Bell, located in Philadelphia,
Pennsylvania, is another quintessentially American symbol. It serves as a reminder of
the country’s fight for independence and the enduring pursuit of liberty and justice.
EMPATHY
Empathy is the ability to recognize, understand, and share the thoughts and feelings of
another person, animal, or fictional character. Developing empathy is crucial for establishing
relationships and behaving compassionately. It involves experiencing another person’s point
of view, rather than just one’s own, and enables helping behaviors that come from within,
rather than being forced.
Some surveys indicate that empathy is on the decline in the United States and elsewhere,
findings that motivate parents, schools, and communities to support programs that help
people of all ages enhance and maintain their ability to walk in each other’s shoes.
I remember a story about a man who visited a church for the first time. It’s a reminder to me
to not judge other people. I hope you like it.
The Shoe Man Poem
My alarm went off
It was Sunday again.
I was sleepy and tired
My one day to sleep in.
But the guilt I would feel
The rest of the day
Would have been too much
So I'd go and I'd pray.
I showered and shaved
I adjusted my tie.
I got there and sat
In a pew just in time.
Bowing my head in prayer
As I closed my eyes.
I saw the shoe of the man next to me
>>>More
Pastor’s Corner – The Shoe Man Poem Page 2 of 5
Touching my own. I sighed.
With plenty of room on either side
I thought, "Why must our soles touch?"
It bothered me, his shoe touching mine
But it didn't bother him much.
A prayer began: "Our Father"…
I thought, "This man with the shoes
has no pride.
They're dusty, worn, and scratched
Even worse, there are holes on the side!"
"Thank You for blessings," the prayer went on.
The shoe man said
a quiet "Amen."
I tried to focus on the prayer
But my thoughts were on his shoes again.
Aren't we supposed to look our best
When walking through that door?
"Well, this certainly isn't it," I thought,
Glancing toward the floor.
Then the prayer was ended
And the songs of praise began.
The shoe man was certainly loud
Sounding proud as he sang.
His voice lifted the rafters
His hands were raised high.
The Lord could surely hear
The shoe man's voice from the sky.
Pastor’s Corner – The Shoe Man Poem Page 3 of 5
It was time for the offering
And what I threw in was steep.
I watched as the shoe man reached
Into his pockets so deep.
I saw what was pulled out
What the shoe man put in.
Then I heard a soft "clink"
as when silver hits tin.
The sermon really bored me
To tears, and that's no lie
It was the same for the shoe man
For tears fell from his eyes.
At the end of the service
As is the custom here
We must greet new visitors
And show them all good cheer.
But I felt moved somehow
And wanted to meet the shoe man
So after the closing prayer
I reached over and shook his hand.
He was old and his skin was dark
And his hair was truly a mess
But I thanked him for coming
For being our guest.
Pastor’s Corner – The Shoe Man Poem Page 4 of 5
He said, "My names' Charlie
I'm glad to meet you, my friend."
There were tears in his eyes
But he had a large, wide grin.
"Let me explain," he said
Wiping tears from his eyes.
"I've been coming here for months
And you're the first to say 'Hi.'"
"I know that my appearance
Is not like all the rest
"But I really do try
To always look my best.
"I always clean and polish my shoes
Before my very long walk.
"But by the time I get here
They're dirty and dusty, like chalk."
My heart filled with pain
and I swallowed to hide my tears
As he continued to apologize
For daring to sit so near.
Pastor’s Corner – The Shoe Man Poem Page 5 of 5
He said, "When I get here
I know I must look a sight.
"But I thought if I could touch you
Then maybe our souls might unite."
I was silent for a moment
Knowing whatever was said
Would pale in comparison
I spoke from my heart, not my head.
"Oh, you've touched me," I said,
"And taught me, in part;
"That the best of any man
Is what is found in his heart."
The rest, I thought,
This shoe man will never know.
Like just how thankful I really am
That his dirty old shoe touched my soul.
– Leanne Freiberg
Enjoy Your Special Day!
JULY
Birthday
03 Hunter Klein
08 Chris Hardin
Monica Muns
09 Janet Noah
12 Roxanne Haug
14 Cecil Hokamp
15 Wally Trietsch
Jeff Coffman
18 James Lockridge
20 Aubrey Teeter
22 Misao Hokamp
30 Tony Bowland
Anniversary
18 Kris and Stacy Schertz
30 Robert and Alyse Hokamp
Champion Children and Youth
Who is a Champion? A Champion is someone who excels in something, advocates, or
works toward a cause or people. Champions play a vital role. Anyone who has a heart for
building Blue Mound’s Children and Youth Ministry can be a Champion on Our Team.
Our first meeting was held June 24 to gather ideas and determine our next steps. Plans are to
have a class for our children and youth, age 6 to High School. Helpers will be needed to set
up the classroom. Gayle will be leading this group of young people. The nursery will be for
children age 5 and under. We hope in the future to create a class just for tween/teen youth.
There will be more information as we dream and plan and have other meetings to give
everyone a chance to share ideas and serve. Contact: Pastor Buster or Gayle.
July Calendar Events
06 Independence Day Church Picnic 6:00 pm
07 Holy Communion
14 Second Sunday Lunch, Noon
27 Family Fellowship Night, 6:00 pm Fun, Games, and Food.
Celebrate Independence Day with A Church Picnic
Saturday, July 6 th , 6:00 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall. Hot dogs
and Hamburgers and fixings are furnished. Bring your favorite
"picnic" food and celebrate with us. Fun, Food & Fellowship
Bring A Friend.
BLUE MOUND UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
8421 N. Interstate 35, Denton, TX 76207-1537 Phone: (940) 382-0825
Midway between Denton and Sanger at Exit 473
Sunday School: 9:30 am, Sunday Worship: 10:45 am
Website: www.bluemoundumc.org
Linda Boyer, Newsletter Editor
Need to contact Pastor Buster Noah?
Email: pastor@bluemoundumc.org
