Old paths

hoppy · Post by **hoppy** » Fri Aug 14, 2009 7:17 am

THE OLD PATHS

I liked the old paths, when

Moms were at home.

Dads were at work.

Brothers went into the army.

And sisters got married BEFORE having children!

Crime did not pay;

Hard work did;

And people knew the difference.

Moms could cook;

Dads would work;

Children would behave.

Husbands were loving;

Wives were supportive;

And children were polite.

Women wore the jewelry;

And Men wore the pants.

Women looked like ladies;

Men looked like gentlemen;

And children looked decent.

People loved the truth,

And hated a lie;

They came to church to get IN,

Not to get OUT!

Hymns sounded Godly;

Sermons sounded helpful;

Rejoicing sounded normal;

And crying sounded sincere.

Cursing was wicked;

Drugs were for illness;

And divorce was unthinkable.

The flag was honored;

America was beautiful;

And God was welcome!

We read the Bible in public;

Prayed in school;

And preached from house to house

To be called an American was worth dying for;

To be called a Christian was worth living for;

To be called a traitor was a shame!

Preachers preached because they had a message;

And Christians rejoiced because they had the VICTORY!

Preachers preached from the Bible;

Singers sang from the heart;

And sinners turned to the Lord to be SAVED!

A new birth meant a new life;

Salvation meant a changed life;

Following Christ led to eternal life.

Being a preacher meant you proclaimed the word of God;

Being a deacon meant you would serve the Lord;

Being a Christian meant you would live for Jesus;

And being a sinner meant someone was praying for you!

Laws were based on the Bible;

Homes read the Bible;

And churches taught the Bible.

God was worshiped;

Christ was exalted;

And the Holy Spirit was respected..

Church was where you found Christians

on the Lord's day, rather than in the garden,

on the creek bank, on the golf course,

Or being entertained somewhere else.

I still like the old paths the best!

'The Old Paths' was written by a retired minister who lives

In Tennessee.

almostfamous · Post by **almostfamous** » Fri Aug 14, 2009 8:27 am

I just love the depiction and ridiculous expectation of a woman in these old paths. Thankfully, we've evolved.

qsducks · Post by **qsducks** » Fri Aug 14, 2009 8:31 am

almostfamous;1229995 wrote: I just love the depiction and ridiculous expectation of a woman in these old paths. Thankfully, we've evolved.

So has dad:wah:...as for who wears the pants, it should be 50/50. We don't live in the Leave it to Beaver, Father Knows Best fantasy from the 50-60's anymore. Yes, we have evolved and men have become partners instead of what they are depicted as in that thread.

chonsigirl · Post by **chonsigirl** » Fri Aug 14, 2009 8:36 am

Never have gotten used to men with earrings.................IMO

The old path is still there, wherever you look for it. You just take it to church on Sundays, and walk right past the golf course. The path is your choice.

Hymns are still played, oh my, I get to pick out the preludes every Sunday. All the old traditional ones, the ones heard in revival meetings, which are still around-we have one every year.

almostfamous · Post by **almostfamous** » Fri Aug 14, 2009 8:43 am

50/50 if you're lucky. Maybe I've just seen too much at my semi-tender age but I see more women pulling the load than men these days. And I refuse to pine away waiting on such a man to exist. I'm not some on-the-edge-of-insanity female activist or anything mind you but a realist. I doubt that my family is the only one to have experienced this but even in the "old" days my own grandfather proved my theory correct. Sure, he worked and brought in the money and he definitely enjoyed wearing the pants but he also liked beating my grandmother, cheating on her and making babies with other women, including his sister-in-law.

qsducks · Post by **qsducks** » Fri Aug 14, 2009 8:47 am

almostfamous;1230012 wrote: 50/50 if you're lucky. Maybe I've just seen too much at my semi-tender age but I see more women pulling the load than men these days. And I refuse to pine away waiting on such a man to exist. I'm not some on-the-edge-of-insanity female activist or anything mind you but a realist. I doubt that my family is the only one to have experienced this but even in the "old" days my own grandfather proved my theory correct. Sure, he worked and brought in the money and he definitely enjoyed wearing the pants but he also liked beating my grandmother, cheating on her and making babies with other women, including his sister-in-law.

I'm in a pretty good relationship with hubs...we both pull our weight. Its a lot of work mind you. As for your grandfather, yuck

. I'm not a big church goer myself...probs because I can't stand our obnoxious, grandstanding priest. Whatever he has to say, I don't want to hear it.:wah:

RedGlitter · Post by **RedGlitter** » Fri Aug 14, 2009 12:17 pm

This presupposes christianity is the religion all should abide by.

Many of those things are thankfully outdated, proved wrong and gone. Others can be found among any bunch of decent goodhearted people, no matter what their religion or if they even have one.

Personally I doubt the world was ever like that (except for some things) and if it was, I am so happy I missed it.

And I must say a "hear hear" to AF. I think that's probably how it was for many if not most.

qsducks · Post by **qsducks** » Fri Aug 14, 2009 12:24 pm

RedGlitter;1230092 wrote: This presupposes christianity is the religion all should abide by.

Many of those things are thankfully outdated, proved wrong and gone. Others can be found among any bunch of decent goodhearted people, no matter what their religion or if they even have one.

Personally I doubt the world was ever like that (except for some things) and if it was, I am so happy I missed it.

And I must say a "hear hear" to AF. I think that's probably how it was for many if not most.

I remember back in the 70's when my aunt decided to go back to school after raising 5 children...well she went over major objections from my uncle....he blamed my mom

because she had gone back & my dad praised her for that decision. They ended up getting divorced...uncle couldn't see why she was so thrilled to get out of the house & go back to college.

Bill Sikes · Post by **Bill Sikes** » Fri Aug 14, 2009 12:53 pm

almostfamous;1229995 wrote: I just love the depiction and ridiculous expectation of a woman in these old[/I ] paths. Thankfully, we've evolved.

However, leaving short-sightedness apart, accepting equality, and interpreting the religious side of that post as generally relevant to all religions, can you see anything positive there? It's very easy to say how old-fashioned something is, but is there any truth in these sentiments in today's world?

Bill Sikes · Post by **Bill Sikes** » Fri Aug 14, 2009 12:55 pm

qsducks;1230000 wrote: as for who wears the pants, it should be 50/50

I agree wholeheartedly. Should the pendulum swing the opposite way from its' historical extreme, do you agree that that would also be wrong?

Bill Sikes · Post by **Bill Sikes** » Fri Aug 14, 2009 12:57 pm

chonsigirl;1230006 wrote: The old path is still there, wherever you look for it.

I agree with this sentiment. In my view, the path should be rightness, truth and decency, to cut a long story short. This irrespective of religion, sex, race, etc. Do you agree?

Bill Sikes · Post by **Bill Sikes** » Fri Aug 14, 2009 1:03 pm

almostfamous;1230012 wrote: 50/50 if you're lucky.

It's people who have experience, and can continue to function in a fair way, without prejudice, that are the way forward. You have to be *very* careful observing what 50:50 *is*, and how it can be made to happen. Leave stereotypes aside, and see how hard people work together at whatever they do. I ask - as you have said of your hopes "I refuse to pine away waiting on such a man to exist" - if you found one just as you hope, could you really fulfil your side of the bargain, without prejudice?

chonsigirl · Post by **chonsigirl** » Fri Aug 14, 2009 1:04 pm

Bill Sikes;1230114 wrote: I agree with this sentiment. In my view, the path should be rightness, truth and decency, to cut a long story short. This irrespective of religion, sex, race, etc. Do you agree?

The path is always there, however it is marked-whether through religion, your upbringing, your moral conscience.

Bill Sikes · Post by **Bill Sikes** » Fri Aug 14, 2009 1:09 pm

RedGlitter;1230092 wrote: Many of those things are thankfully outdated, proved wrong and gone. Others can be found among any bunch of decent goodhearted people, no matter what their religion or if they even have one.

Ah, RG, much sense, in that statement I have quoted above. It can be really quite difficult to observe and acknowlege goodness, in the face of pre-conception. Do you agree?

qsducks · Post by **qsducks** » Fri Aug 14, 2009 1:11 pm

Bill Sikes;1230111 wrote: I agree wholeheartedly. Should the pendulum swing the opposite way from its' historical extreme, do you agree that that would also be wrong?

Yes, because marriage is hard enough.. Both should be in accordance with each other...make decisions together. Go back & forth over these decisions, etc. It's been working for us for over 24 yrs. There is no "my way or the highway" junk as that causes friction.

Waht irratates me the most about these politicians inthe US is the gang who constantly spout "Traditional Family Values"....wtf are they? I grew up in the 70/80's...women were out of the house & working, going back to school. What are they afraid of?

almostfamous · Post by **almostfamous** » Fri Aug 14, 2009 1:22 pm

Bill Sikes;1230110 wrote: However, leaving short-sightedness apart, accepting equality, and interpreting the religious side of that post as generally relevant to all religions, can you see anything positive there? It's very easy to say how old-fashioned something is, but is there any truth in these sentiments in today's world?

That's why I didn't say the whole post was ludicrous.

I'm not an uber religious person but I am spiritual and believe in God. Sadly, the points of Christianity in that thread have been beat down and thrashed to death. Removing God from school was ridiculous. It removed a child's right to choose what they believed as their overbearing parents decided for them. An injustice in itself never mind the end result for that child.

I scream denial, denial, denial. Anyone with anything to say against God will have their judgment day and I pity em. (2 Tim. 2:12 - deny the Father and He will deny us.)

I normally try to steer clear of religious topics as not to offend but you asked

almostfamous · Post by **almostfamous** » Fri Aug 14, 2009 1:25 pm

Bill Sikes;1230119 wrote: It's people who have experience, and can continue to function in a fair way, without prejudice, that are the way forward. You have to be *very* careful observing what 50:50 *is*, and how it can be made to happen. Leave stereotypes aside, and see how hard people work together at whatever they do. I ask - as you have said of your hopes "I refuse to pine away waiting on such a man to exist" - if you found one just as you hope, could you really fulfil your side of the bargain, without prejudice?

I have no doubt in my mind I would more than fulfill my side of the bargain. That is my fault. Even when I know "he" is not, I do and then some. No doubt I go into every new relationship with an open mind but in the back of my mind know what red flags to look for. I have more experience in this area than I might choose to admit but I'm never prejudiced.

qsducks · Post by **qsducks** » Fri Aug 14, 2009 1:25 pm

almostfamous;1230134 wrote: That's why I didn't say the whole post was ludicrous.

I'm not an uber religious person but I am spiritual and believe in God. Sadly, the points of Christianity in that thread have been beat down and thrashed to death. Removing God from school was ridiculous. It removed a child's right to choose what they believed as their overbearing parents decided for them. An injustice in itself never mind the end result for that child.

I scream denial, denial, denial. Anyone with anything to say against God will have their judgment day and I pity em. (2 Tim. 2:12 - deny the Father and He will deny us.)

I normally try to steer clear of religious topics as to not offend but you asked

I usually steer cleer of the religious topics too...but this thread screamed sexism

almostfamous · Post by **almostfamous** » Fri Aug 14, 2009 1:28 pm

qsducks;1230137 wrote: I usually steer cleer of the religious topics too...but this thread screamed sexism

Yep, the first two sentences hit my buzzer

RedGlitter · Post by **RedGlitter** » Fri Aug 14, 2009 2:45 pm

Bill Sikes;1230125 wrote: Ah, RG, much sense, in that statement I have quoted above. It can be really quite difficult to observe and acknowlege goodness, in the face of pre-conception. Do you agree?

I might, Bill. I mean, I'm not tearing apart Hoppy's post or beliefs (or those of anyone else) but as a nonChristian yet religious and thinking person, when I see stuff like that which presumes the Christian God is everyone's God and how the world sucks because women don't know their place and such things, it gets in my underwear like a boll weevil.

I see many good points here from many members. And I credit Hoppy for posting this because it's started a really good conversation which was what I had hoped to find when I came back here.

I did not go to church on Sundays as a general rule but was raised Methodist, yet allowed to choose my own version and relationship with (my) God. I was an outspoken kid with a wise and educated mother and a street smart hardworking father. My mom stayed home until I was almost nine. Her being at work taught me more responsibility than a lot of traditionally mothered kids had. Yet I had no loss. My mom was still there for me, still ran a home, took care of a husband, and still made us a family. I never felt I did "without" because my mom wasn't home when I came in from school.

I was taught what were then traditional values that are still ingrained in me, much as I wish some weren't. My dad never griped if dinner wasn't on the table at 6 sharp. Or if it wasn't what he wanted. He learned growing up when a woman cooks for you, you appreciate it. He never hit my mother and never EVER put her down to anyone. And she treated him with just as much respect. Ithought we *had* a traditional family. But according to the stuf like the OP, we were nothing more than godless heathens and part of the reason the world went sour. Most people I remember knowing when I was growing up were like us. We were just normal people. Ok, I'm rambling here, sorry. It was just that Ducks' comment about being a kid in the 70s/80s rang a bell.

It's good to see you posting Bill. I mean that.

OpenMind · Post by **OpenMind** » Fri Aug 14, 2009 3:31 pm

We have a lot to say against religion today and we have the freedom to say it. Religion has been used for committing some vile acts through history and I think that it's the hypocricy of how religion has been used to control society that reviles us more than anything else.

Nonetheless, let's remember that religion has also contributed greatly to the civilised societies that have formed in the world today. Some great works of art have also been inspired and created in the name of religion and God.

My main concern is that we are now witnessing a lowering of social standards in our societies today and our leaders do little to inspire.

Patsy Warnick · Post by **Patsy Warnick** » Fri Aug 14, 2009 8:24 pm

I hate labels

stereotypes - the good old days are just that, the past.

those days where women couldn't be independent & outspoken.

Having a Life Partner that 50/50 life style is difficult to find and difficult to maintain..

My husband doesn't vaccum - but he opens & holds every door for me.

My husband doesn't cook - but he'll wash the pots & pans after a meal.

My husband keeps gas in the cars - I don't & refuse to pump gas.

You see My husband sleeps in the bed - but he doesn't make the bed.

Life has thrown me many curve balls & if you and your parnter aren't on the same page..? well you probably won't make it.

Now unfortunately with the economy Divorce is at a all time high.

people are so quick to bail then to work on the issue.

everything is disposable - even people.

Patsy

OpenMind · Post by **OpenMind** » Fri Aug 14, 2009 11:02 pm

Patsy Warnick;1230297 wrote: I hate labels

stereotypes - the good old days are just that, the past.

those days where women couldn't be independent & outspoken.

Having a Life Partner that 50/50 life style is difficult to find and difficult to maintain..

My husband doesn't vaccum - but he opens & holds every door for me.

My husband doesn't cook - but he'll wash the pots & pans after a meal.

My husband keeps gas in the cars - I don't & refuse to pump gas.

You see My husband sleeps in the bed - but he doesn't make the bed.

Life has thrown me many curve balls & if you and your parnter aren't on the same page..? well you probably won't make it.

Now unfortunately with the economy Divorce is at a all time high.

people are so quick to bail then to work on the issue.

everything is disposable - even people.

Patsy

That's so very true.

almostfamous · Post by **almostfamous** » Sat Aug 15, 2009 7:59 am

OpenMind;1230223 wrote: We have a lot to say against religion today and we have the freedom to say it. Religion has been used for committing some vile acts through history and I think that it's the hypocricy of how religion has been used to control society that reviles us more than anything else.Nonetheless, let's remember that religion has also contributed greatly to the civilised societies that have formed in the world today. Some great works of art have also been inspired and created in the name of religion and God.

My main concern is that we are now witnessing a lowering of social standards in our societies today and our leaders do little to inspire.

I completely agree with you and you achieved a point I couldn't find the words for.

Patsy Warnick;1230297 wrote: I hate labels

stereotypes - the good old days are just that, the past.

those days where women couldn't be independent & outspoken.

Having a Life Partner that 50/50 life style is difficult to find and difficult to maintain..

My husband doesn't vaccum - but he opens & holds every door for me.

My husband doesn't cook - but he'll wash the pots & pans after a meal.

My husband keeps gas in the cars - I don't & refuse to pump gas.

You see My husband sleeps in the bed - but he doesn't make the bed.

Life has thrown me many curve balls & if you and your parnter aren't on the same page..? well you probably won't make it.

Now unfortunately with the economy Divorce is at a all time high.

people are so quick to bail then to work on the issue.

everything is disposable - even people.

Patsy

Very well said. The quick to bail part is definitely an issue and partial explanation for the demise of my most recent relationship. I'm fairly confident it wouldn't have worked anyway but with a child involved I was fighting against the odds and he preferred to continue his drunken lifestyle. His loss though, no sob story there

But, in the future, I know not to settle. To fight the fight where it is deserved, where he deserves me. I'm a strong minded intelligent woman with career goals and life aspirations but if "he" can't meet me halfway and expects to gain off of my achievements while loafing "he" can dream his little dream elsewhere.

qsducks · Post by **qsducks** » Sat Aug 15, 2009 8:25 am

Patsy Warnick;1230297 wrote: I hate labels

stereotypes - the good old days are just that, the past.

those days where women couldn't be independent & outspoken.

Having a Life Partner that 50/50 life style is difficult to find and difficult to maintain..

My husband doesn't vaccum - but he opens & holds every door for me.

My husband doesn't cook - but he'll wash the pots & pans after a meal.

My husband keeps gas in the cars - I don't & refuse to pump gas.

You see My husband sleeps in the bed - but he doesn't make the bed.

Life has thrown me many curve balls & if you and your parnter aren't on the same page..? well you probably won't make it.

Now unfortunately with the economy Divorce is at a all time high.

people are so quick to bail then to work on the issue.

everything is disposable - even people.

Patsy

I must be in a most unique marriage...we both share the cooking, cleaning but the gas in the car is his job. Hubs has taken 3 outta 4 to the beach today for a swim...:-4 and is picking up fresh tomatoes on the way home & our fave pie..apple, walnut, caramel fresh pie:-4

You def. have to be on the same page or you will get lost. Mum always told me that the left hand needs to know what the right hand is doing and she's right. Its worked for us over 24 yrs. And yes, we got married AFTER having 2 kids...I was preggars with #3 when we got hitched.

almostfamous · Post by **almostfamous** » Sat Aug 15, 2009 8:29 am

qsducks;1230435 wrote: I must be in a most unique marriage...we both share the cooking, cleaning but the gas in the car is his job. Hubs has taken 3 outta 4 to the beach today for a swim...:-4 and is picking up fresh tomatoes on the way home & our fave pie..apple, walnut, caramel fresh pie:-4

You def. have to be on the same page or you will get lost. Mum always told me that the left hand needs to know what the right hand is doing and she's right. Its worked for us over 24 yrs. And yes, we got married AFTER having 2 kids...I was preggars with #3 when we got hitched.

It sounds like you have the type of marriage my folks have and it is definitely something to behold and admire..... especially in the times we live in.

Kudos to you and yours :-4

qsducks · Post by **qsducks** » Sat Aug 15, 2009 8:51 am

almostfamous;1230437 wrote: It sounds like you have the type of marriage my folks have and it is definitely something to behold and admire..... especially in the times we live in.

Kudos to you and yours :-4

Yup, its worked so far...oh we have our ups & downs and arguments:wah:..i don't know who is more stubborn but we make up in the end or sometimes throw whatever we fighting about under the carpet:wah:...and then bring it out & talk about it. Calming down is the main ingrediant...:wah:. NO point in going to bed angry at each other.