Still

If heart would still with every cry, 

in twist of wind where we deny, 

what breaks us into pieces, 

deep in the cracks and creases, 

In anguish we might start to yearn, 

for lessons we refuse to learn, 

then we could see the light, 

inside the dead of night. 

Beyond the dark where evil hides, 

and hate finds footing to reside, 

where love can never flourish...

we may find might of courage. 

KEC

aka Deo Volente

1/8/2026

Happy New Year - 2026

 I feel as though I blinked and 2025 ended. There really is truth in the thought that time moves faster with age. Maybe it's because we forget to enjoy the simple things while we rush towards something more. Or maybe our priorities become less about the moment and more about the process. Whatever the reason, we tend to forget that the essential part of life, is living. With that in mind, it is my sincerest wish that no matter how much we have to accomplish this year, we remember to live. I pray we resolve to treasure the moments; fleeting though they may be. Laugh, for it is healing. Love, simply because it is good for the heart. Dream because dreams have power. And never forget, no matter what each day brings, that we, collectively and individually, matter. 

Have a wonderful year World

D.V.

1.1.2026

Debate vs Argue

I enjoy a good debate, a meeting of the minds with opposing viewpoints, driven by the desire to prevail. Passionately powerful yet informative and respectful. How about you, do you like debates? More often than not an argument is referred to as a debate, but they are not the same, do you know why?

According to an online dictionary: 

A debate is a formal discussion on a particular topic in a public meeting in which opposing arguments are put forward. And an argument is an exchange of diverging or opposing views, typically a heated or angry one. 

Sounds pretty much the same, doesn't it? particularly since the word argument is used in the definition of debate. And emphasis is placed on both having opposing viewpoints. But in my opinion, there are key elements that make them different. The first being emotion and the other being the takeaway.

Emotion is defined as a natural instinctive state of mind deriving from one's circumstances, mood or relationship with others. While takeaway is defined as a key point, or idea to be remembered, typically one emerging from a discussion or meeting. 

Though logically a debate and an argument are based in opposing viewpoints an argument is typically fueled by emotion not logic and as such lacks the formal courtesies that a debate must have to be effective. Also, the takeaway from an argument is likely to be clouded by emotional turmoil whereas the takeaway from a debate usually invokes reflection, thought and if really well done, growth. See the difference? 

Look at it this way, in an argument, emotion causes tempers to flare, and pretty soon one person takes the defensive while the other the offensive. But it solves nothing, points of views are not conveyed, and rationality is out the window. However, in a debate there is time allotted for opposing viewpoints as well as rebuttals, emotion may be present, but it is not the driving force. The driving force is the desire to present an irrefutable case based on logic and facts in order to win over and or quiet your opponent. A good debate should foster learning, thought and growth for both the debaters and the observers. 

Do you agree?

KEC

aka Deo Volente

12/27/2025

Love - by definition

Have you ever watched the Movie Fireproof? If not, here is the gist of it: 

It is a simple yet beautiful movie about a firefighter in a troubled marriage who through faith and the encouragement of others, finds the courage to repair what has been broken. 

It got me thinking about the definition of love, particularly as it pertains to marriage.

How would you define love?

One version of the bible (1 Corinthians 13: verses 4 - 7) defines it as follows:

Love is patient

Love is kind

It does not envy

It does not boast

It is not proud

It does not dishonor others

It is not self-seeking

It is not easily angered

It keeps no record of wrong

Love does not delight in evil but rejoices in the truth

It always protects

Always trusts

Always hopes

Always perseveres.

The dictionary defines it as follows: 

An intense feeling of deep affection.

A great interest and pleasure in something

Are you leaning towards the bible or the dictionary definition? Why?

I am leaning toward the biblical definition, here's why.

It focuses on selfless rather than self, emphasizing the action, what we should and should not do in spite of what we feel. A how to of sorts, after all; intensity fades and interests change, but what we do has the potential to last a lifetime. The fact is, that applies to Love in any form, not just in a marriage.

KEC

aka Deo Volente

12/26/2025

Merry Christmas World!

 I hope you have a Christmas filled with love, laughter and moments you will cherish for a lifetime. 

KEC
aka Deo Volente

Destiny or delusion

Heart flutters.

Resolve melts like butter,

over an open flame.

Every time she hears his name.

Hands shake.

One glance is all it takes,

for her to freeze.

Two, will buckle her knees.

Thoughts race.

From the smile on his face, 

to his walk.

She forgets she knows how to talk.

One slight touch. 

Makes her blush, 

for he has the power to wake her.

His embrace will surely break her.

Eyes haze.

He's fixed in her gaze, 

she turns before the sway.

But he is the ripple in her day...

and destiny is barreling their way.

KEC

aka Deo Volente

12/23/2025

You're not alone.

Call him in the whisper of your heart's ache, 

he'll be awake.

Call him in the echoes of your smile, 

he'll walk that mile.

Call him in the shadow of your doubts, 

and let it out. 

Call him in the courage of your stand, 

he'll hold your hand,

Call him before your tears begin to dry, 

he won't ask why.

Call him when you're brimming with delight,

by day or night

Call him if you falter on your way,

even if the words are hard to say...

He'll share your every moment big and small,

all you have to do my friend, is call.

KEC

aka Deo Volente

12/22/2025