Personal Sacrifice | What’s “IMPORTANT”

September 26, 2013

  It’s amazing what you find in the very bottom of a large cardboard box marked “IMPORTANT” About 4 years have passed since I’d last looked for the “IMPORTANT” container. This picture was down about the bottom of other “IMPORTANT” items, pictures, floppy disks (yes, floppy disks) and various life affirming items. The action, the brilliant illumination or deafening decibel from the flash bang, the high-tech weaponry, nor the dangerous fugitives captured was “IMPORTANT” It is the honor of serving many years in SWAT with committed and compassionate officers […]

When God has a Message | Just hush

September 24, 2013

Developing a talking theme for the year’s last quarter, I thought about leadership. Everyday my inbox is inundated with training solicitations for courses on leadership. Sure, everyone wants to lead, guide, direct and command. It’s our manifest destiny standing at the helm with a sword in one hand inspiring the troops. Today we can learn how to do it for a very reasonable registration fee, travel, hotel and per diem. Then I thought about learning to serve instead. Jotting ideas of what our commission as public servants […]

The Schulz Philosophy | Easy Quiz Included

September 22, 2013

I know this is a little different, but take the time to think through this very short quiz below. 1. Name the five wealthiest people in the world. 2. Name the last five Heisman trophy winners. 3. Name the last five winners of the Miss America contest. 4. Name ten people who have won the Nobel or Pulitzer Prize. 5. Name the last half dozen Academy Award winners for best actor and actress. 6. Name the last decade’s worth of World Series […]

Glory Hallelujah | Bo Bice

September 21, 2013

Just had to share this amazing praise song

Be an Oak

September 15, 2013

It was around 1981-82 that I decided I would quit my job to pursue the full-time ministry of an Evangelist. I had been taught by my Pastor that you never make major changes without prayer and fasting. I had a wife and two children at this time (my youngest was not yet born), and this decision would seriously affect their lives. I had to know it was God directing me. I took a few days off of work, and went on a […]

5 Tips To Create A Positive First Impression

September 12, 2013

“I think I blew it with the new vice president,” moaned my coaching client. “I was drowning in paperwork when she walked through our department introducing herself. I was so distracted I could hardly get my own name out of my mouth. On top of that, I was wearing jeans while the VP and just about everyone else in my department was wearing a suit that day. I can only imagine the awful first impression I made.” Did you know it takes only three […]

Remembered

September 11, 2013

God Bless America

A Ticket to Ride

September 3, 2013

Call it a sixth sense, but for 24 years I have felt the gaze as I enter public places. There is usually at least one set of eyes that lock onto the police uniform and refuse to disengage. Even as my senses alert me to the activity, and I identify the exact person engaged in the stare down, they refuse to unlock the look that screams, “Policeman.” It can make you very uncomfortable. It can be intimidating. It can be downright frightening. I’ve […]

I’m Shaping Up | Week 25

September 2, 2013

Lets do Labor Day instead. Did you know: Labor Day, the first Monday in September, is a creation of the labor movement and is dedicated to the social and economic achievements of American workers. It constitutes a yearly national tribute to the contributions workers have made to the strength, prosperity, and well-being of our country. Yes, I’m continuing to Labor towards a healthier lifestyle, and I also appreciate the value of deserved time off. It’s been a wonderful holiday shared mostly by the kiddo […]

How You Can Change for the Best

September 1, 2013

While sitting, lift your right foot off the floor and make clockwise circles with it.  While doing this, draw the number “6″ in the air with your right hand. Your foot will change direction, and there’s nothing you can do about it. Someone smarter than me will have to explain why, but I do know there are some things we do that alters the way other things work in our lives. Jesus taught that He came to seek and to save us […]

If you had just one bullet

August 26, 2013

Amazing what common sense and compassion accomplish. Keep it in your pocket.

The Required and the Desired

August 25, 2013

Those with children know that if you want them to do certain things, you will have to require it of them. I have five brothers, and grew up with one bathroom in the home. Our daily baths were done in resemblance to an assembly line – “ Next!” My Momma knew boys though. She would check behind our ears and under our neck to be sure we bathed. Cleanliness required bathing, and Momma knew you don’t get what you expect, you get […]

I’m Shaping Up | Week 24

August 19, 2013

I’m Shaping Up; Week 24 You just never know. A few weeks back I received an e-mail from my academic mentor and friend, Dr. John Kiefer. He was my master of public administration program’s thesis advisor while I attended the University of New Orleans. We connected immediately, and I admired his career as a professor and his calling as a United States Marine. Satisfied with my graduation from UNO and no intention of continuing my education, Doc encouraged me to pursue a PhD […]

An about face | To the rear march

August 18, 2013

If you have ever watched soldiers doing close-order drill on a parade field, you know how quickly they can reverse themselves and head in the opposite direction. If they attempt this while standing still, the command is “about face”. If they want to reverse while marching, the command is “to the rear, march”. In either case, there is an abrupt change leading in an entirely different direction. This is a good picture of what genuine repentance looks like. It means to change […]

I’m Shaping Up | Week 23

August 12, 2013

It’s the last week of summer!!! For kiddo before school; the rest of us get to continue in suffering beneath the sweltering summer sun!! Gotta tell ya that the combination of fitness routine and kiddo at your feet made for challenging times and other times not so much. The great thing about returning to a healthy life is during the times when the gym closes too early, the afternoon rain showers are too consistent or the day gets lost playing with kiddo, it […]

The Foundation of Doing Life

August 11, 2013

“Do for others what you would like them to do for you” (Matthew 7:12). This passage is often described as the Golden Rule of the Bible. If practiced, it can change your life and even your world. Mahatma Ghandi was instrumental in India’s freedom by instituting the non-violent teachings of Christ – Ghandi was Hindu. Dr. Martin Luther King was a Baptist preacher that taught the same non-violent principles of the Prince of Peace, and changed the racial injustices of our nation. […]

Valor | Strength of Mind & Spirit

August 9, 2013

  I am so fortunate to be associated with men and women who hold this sacred. I’m thankful for their friendship, service and sacrifice. Who do you know living by this ethos? Thank them. Thank you.                      

I’m Shaping Up | Week 22

August 5, 2013

I’m Shaping Up; Week 22 Hi everyone, good to be back after a week in North Dakota. No exercise, unless you call reading highway safety reports and eating hotel food all week exercise. Did you know that it’s hot and humid in south Louisiana? You’d think I would know that too, but it didn’t stop me from overdoing it this weekend. But don’t “I told you so” too quickly. I was inspired by the wonderful folks I’ve rejoined in our Bayou Country […]

How All Things Can Work For The Good

August 4, 2013

By: Chaplain Ronnie Melancon There is an old story of a king in Africa who had a close friend from his childhood. The friend had a habit of looking at every situation that ever occurred in his life (positive or negative) and remarking – “This is good!” One day the king and his friend were out on a hunting expedition.  The friend would load and prepare the guns for the king.  The friend had apparently done something wrong in preparing one of […]

Wanna Pull a Train?

August 1, 2013

Recently returning to recreational cycling, I’ve enjoyed heading out after work for as long as the sunlight allows. These rides are usually alone, and the hours of solo saddle time allows for so many thoughts to get sorted out. It’s amazing how mental the physical act of cycling can be. There are also the other fantastic times when I join other cyclists. With a little experience, instruction and commitment most people become comfortable in a pace-line, or “train.” The benefits of working as a team in a pace-line extend beyond […]

Fear: The #1 Inhibitor of Success

July 30, 2013

NOTE: You know I love the posts by the16percent staff, and this quick message is one of the many truths they share. Let me share with you. By the16percent on July 26, 2013 Comfort zone. Those two words, when it pertains to careers and the workplace, make me cringe. To me, it means complacency and—to a certain degree—laziness. When friends complain to me about their situation, I often ask, “Why don’t you try something else?” To which I usually get a response similar to, “Because […]

Benefits of Genuine Worship | Part 4

July 28, 2013

NOTE: This is the last in the 4-part series of Walter Bright’s “Benefits of Genuine Worship.” I trust it has blessed you, as it does me. Our Police Chaplain Ronnie Melancon will be back in action next week, but please continue to share and support Walter Bright’s ministry.   July 5, 2013·by walter bright· in Worship. · Worship increases spiritual strength and endurance in the life of the worshiper Isaiah 40:28-31 says, “Have you not known? Have you not heard? The Lord […]

Rise of the Warrior Cop

July 25, 2013

  Is it time to reconsider the militarization of American policing? by: RADLEY BALKO Reposted from the WSJ (7-22-13) On Jan. 4 of last year, a local narcotics strike force conducted a raid on the Ogden, Utah, home of Matthew David Stewart at 8:40 p.m. The 12 officers were acting on a tip from Mr. Stewart’s former girlfriend, who said that he was growing marijuana in his basement. Mr. Stewart awoke, naked, to the sound of a battering ram taking down his door. […]

Local cops, kids bond over library storytime

July 23, 2013

Thibodaux kids have the right to remain entertained. The Thibodaux Police Department partnered with the Thibodaux Library to have officers read stories to kids at least twice a month. Detective Douglas Fontana, who read stories Monday evening, said the program started about three months ago as a way for officers to get more involved in the community. “It really gives us a chance to expand and do things we normally wouldn’t do,” he said. Fontana said his favorite stories are the ones […]

Benefits of Genuine Worship | Part 3

July 21, 2013

NOTE: Our Agency’s Chaplain is back, but I really want to share the rest of Walter Bright’s message “Benefits of Genuine Worship.” Please visit his site, as his ministry is a blessing. July 4, 2013·by walter bright· in Worship. · Freedom Reigns I want to thank the Lord because every opportunity we get to meet with him and worship him is an opportunity for him to release into our lives all of His goodness. I pray that on this independence day, we […]

Social Media is The New Face of Disaster Response

July 19, 2013

July 18, 2013 By Eric Covino NOTE: Great post from my friend Lauri Stevens at ConnectedCops.net. Please check her out! Did you know that 76% of survivors of natural disasters use social media to let their friends know they’re safe? You can find more interesting facts about social media’s role in the wake of a natural disaster, including Sandy, in the following infographic developed by University of San Francisco’s Masters of Public Administration department. The infographic was most recently used in a congressional hearing […]

How Much Police Brutality Is Enough?

July 18, 2013

NOTE: This is an article from 2001, but I find it’s perspective of police force interesting. I want to share this alternative view by Daniel McCarthy. What do you think; how much police brutality is enough? “…I’m one of these guys who thinks cops can slap people around from time to time — if it’s called for and if they don’t get caught….” “The thin blue line needs to operate in a wide gray area when it comes to maintaining the social order….” The quotes are […]

I’m Shaping Up | Week 20

July 15, 2013

  I’m Shaping Up; Week 20 How to you benchmark 20 weeks of concerted efforts for reclaiming health? Just show up. I’ve been chipping away with daily runs, yoga and cycling. Most after work rides allow about 25 – 30 mile rides through beautiful bayous and endless acres of sweeping sugarcane fields. My cycling club, Bayou Country Cyclists held the regular Saturday ride. The club president, Christy J. e-mailed me Friday and said just show up. 75 miles and 4 hours later, […]

Benefits to Genuine Worship | Part 2

July 14, 2013

NOTE: My Agency’s Chaplain Ronnie Melancon is back and thank God for blessing us with such a humble spiritual leader. I want to continue sharing Walter Bright’s message with you in this Part 2 of 4; Benefits of Genuine Worship. by walter bright · in Worship. · Every opportunity we have to meet with and worship God is an opportunity for God to release into our lives all of His goodness. When He shows up he comes with healing, deliverance and power. […]

7 Effective Ways Happy People Think

July 12, 2013

NOTE: I really love their affirming and positive messages, and want to share this one with you. Please visit their site at Marc and Angel Hack Life 7 Effective Ways Happy People Think “Happiness is when what you think, what you say, and what you do are in harmony.” ―Mahatma Gandhi Believe it or not, I’ve read 27 personal development books specifically on the topic of happiness over the last few years.  (Yeah, I suppose that makes me a bit of a […]

I’m Shaping Up | Week 19

July 8, 2013

I’m Shaping Up; Week 19 This 4th of July holiday provided great opportunities for family, fun, food and showing my siblings who is boss. OK, actually I over ate at a family BBQ, chased kiddo down at a Veteran’s celebration in the park, and blamed the mysterious disappearance of about 6 homemade brownies on my youngest niece. Yes, I was out of character but we all need a break sometimes. As for exercise, it was another great week to include running, walking and […]

Benefits of Genuine Worship | Part 1

July 7, 2013

NOTE: Our Police Department Chaplain has been on travel of late, so I want to take the opportunity to share the powerful message of Walter Bright’s blessings. God bless Pastor Ronnie Melancon, and we look forward to your return at the Bright Blue Line. Benefits of Genuine Worship/ Part 1 by walter bright I remember walking into service that Wednesday night just when the amen to the opening prayer was said. I sat down in the very back of the church, but […]

Behold the power of bikes

July 3, 2013

NOTE: It’s Tour time and not all great biking news is happening in France. Here’s a great story of how bikes contribute in other ways World Bicycle Relief has a mission: transforming individuals and their communities through the power of bicycles. A nonprofit dedicated to improving our world by bike? Count us in. And we’d like to count you in, too. We’ll match every donation made to World Bicycle Relief in the month of July, worldwide. World Bicycle Relief was founded in […]

I’m Shaping Up | Week 18

July 1, 2013

I’m Shaping Up; Week 18 This week was about finding inspiration when totally not expecting it. I’ve been back on the bike steadily and enjoying the return in the saddle. Either alone or with the fantastic club members of our Bayou Country Cyclists, it’s great to be back. Motivation came when I met 2 team members for a quick 20+. One of the ladies forgot her cycling shoes. Her friend offered to forgo the ride and head home. The shoeless rider refused […]

PTSD Awareness Day 2013 | CopsAlive.com

June 27, 2013

NOTE: From our friends at CopsAlive.com Today is PTSD Awareness Day and its time for those of us in law enforcement to learn more about Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and take a stance on how we will preserve and maintain our mental health and resilience in the face of a very toxic career. Today’s the day and June is PTSD Awareness Month and we encourage you to learn more about Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) not only to help yourself but your peers and […]

I’m Shaping Up | Week 17

June 24, 2013

I wondered this morning was it raining, as I struggled between more sleep and exercise. Remembering the awesome encouragement and motivational replies over the last weeks, I popped up and hit the early morning road. It was raining! Last week was another productive effort. three days of morning & evening training sessions, prepared meals at home and away from restaurants, and a consistent BP reading have me steadily moving towards regaining health. I even hit the gym after a blistering afternoon of lawn […]

You Need RHEMA In Your Life

June 23, 2013

There are two primary Greek words in Scripture that are translated into word in the New Testament. The first, logos, refers principally to the total inspired Word of God and to Jesus, who is the living Logos. The following passages of Scripture give examples of the logos of God: “In the beginning was the Word [logos], and the Word [logos] was with God, and the Word [logos] was God” (John 1:1). “The seed is the word [logos] of God” (Luke 8:11).  “Being born […]

Get Rid of Cookie-Cutter Solutions!

June 21, 2013

NOTE: I heard about this school photograph earlier and it absolutely broke my heart. It’s no secret that I’m a big fan of the16percent, and as always they did a great job incorporating this event into positive teaching moment.   Get Rid of Cookie-Cutter Solutions! By the16percent on June 21, 2013 A story about a class photo that I read this week tuned me into how crucial it is to cater to the unique needs of people—and not hand out cookie-cutter solutions. It was […]

Code 9 | Officer Needs Assistance

June 18, 2013

Code 9 | Officer Needs Assistance; these words strike at our deepest fear. There is nothing in this life that can prevent fellow officers from getting to an officer in need. All I am asking is that you watch this video. Yes, it’s that important. I watched this video sent to me by Deborah Ortiz and was moved with emotion as I listened to children speak the words that Police Officers never will. Please get involved; no more silent suffering. Deborah’s FB message: hello […]

I’m Shaping Up | Week 16

June 17, 2013

I’m Shaping Up; Week 16 This week was awesome for so many more reasons than 2-a-day workouts. By regaining a level of fitness, this weekend’s searing heat was much more tolerable while spending time outdoors. I trust you Dads enjoyed your day, and today is a great opportunity to join us in Shaping UP! Week 16 Here’s to holding each other accountable when the couch looks inviting and the snacks endless. Weight – Don’t know. Still not worrying about these numbers. Exercise […]

Not Done Yet | Father’s Day Fun Facts

June 16, 2013

Father’s Day Fun Facts Infographic

Counting the Cost

June 16, 2013

Horatio G. Spafford was a Chicago Presbyterian layman. He was born in North Troy, New York on October 20, 1828. After graduating from college and passing the bar exam, he established a successful legal practice in Chicago. He enjoyed a very lucrative law practice, yet always maintained a keen interest in Christian activities. He was personally acquainted with D. L. Moody, and the other evangelical leaders of that era. George Stebbins, a noted Gospel musician of the day, described H. G. Spafford as “a man of […]

12 Choices Your Future Self Will Thank You For

June 13, 2013

NOTE: Great post from awesome site at Marc and Angel Hack Life When life pushes you over, stand up and push back even harder.  Where there is a fork in the road and choices to make, make the ones your future self will thank you for. Today, start… Choosing YOU. – Wearing a mask wears you out.  Faking it is fatiguing.  The most exhausting activity is pretending to be who you know you aren’t.  No matter how loud their opinions are, they […]

I’m Shaping Up | Week 15

June 10, 2013

I’m Shaping Up; Week 15 This week I returned to the joy of being a multi-sport athlete. I went out for a 25 mile cycle through the sugarcane fields, and upon returning home I immediately changed into shorts and running shoes. Exiting the house while rehydrating, I immediately went to the shed and grabbed the lawnmower to cut the lawn before another evening thunder shower. Well, it wasn’t the traditional multi-sport event, but it was two activities that independently used to leave […]

Fixing Your Cruiser

June 9, 2013

There are four steps to learning. Step #1: Unconscious Incompetence – You don’t know that you don’t know Step #2: Conscious Incompetence – You know that you don’t know Step #3: Conscious Competence – You know that you know Step #4: Unconscious Competence – You know it so well you don’t have to consciously think on it   Good example is the teenager that first wants to drive a car. Step #1 big time! Give them a few years and they are […]

I’m Shaping Up | Week 14

June 3, 2013

I’m Shaping Up | Week 14 School’s Out For Summer!! While this means I still report for duty Monday morning, but does mean the kiddo is out for the next few months. How does this challenge the quest to become fit? Well, the hotter it becomes, the more kiddo seems to enjoy snacks inside while watching TV. Yes, I have been known to watch a few episodes of Barney while sharing snacks from his bowl. This week, and the wonderful Memorial Day weekend […]

Finish Well

June 2, 2013

The young preacher finally had a chance to preach when he was asked to say a few words at an elderly gentlemen’s funeral. Using an allegory of a pecan he said, ”What we see here lying before us is only a shell. The old nut has gone.” Sometimes, what we really want to say doesn’t quite come out right. I can assure you that you will be leaving your present job. I can also assure you, that you will be leaving this […]

A Response to Rt. Hon. Keith Vaz MP | Nathan Constable (UK)

May 30, 2013

NOTE: I follow the work of Nathan Constable, who regularly posts about the conditions of policing in the UK. This recent event involving the brutal murder of a British soldier on the streets of London, solicited an unusual response from a high-ranking official. You think the U.S. has issues?? Stay Strong UK Blue  Reposted from my Friend & Brother in Blue from the UK; Nathan Constable This morning, the Rt. Hon. Keith Vaz MP, Chair of the Home Affairs Select Committee has […]

Help for Your Heart

May 26, 2013

By: Chaplain Ronnie Melancon We all have drawn, or at least received, a picture of a “Heart” as a symbol of love. We have said, “that breaks my heart” or “I surrender my heart,” but have you ever thought about what the “Heart” actually is. In scripture, the bible says the Lord looks at the heart. The heart of man is the center of his being. It is your Mind, Will, and Emotions.  Your deepest Thoughts, Desires, and Feelings.  It is who […]