If you had just one bullet
Amazing what common sense and compassion accomplish. Keep it in your pocket.
The Required and the Desired
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
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
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
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
“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
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
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
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?
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
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
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
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
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
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 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?
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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!
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
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
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
Father’s Day Fun Facts Infographic
Counting the Cost
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
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
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
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
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
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)
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 […]
Thank You
Help for Your Heart
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 […]
The Christian Police Officer
The Christian Police Officer – By: Officer Johnathan Fontenot I am a Christian, but I am also a Police Officer. The challenges of being a Christian or a Police Officer are in and of themselves diverse, but being both at the same time has proved to be more challenging than I could have ever imagined. My journey with God began in the summer of 2009. My life was completely transformed, and God gave me an intense desire to know more about him. So, […]
I’m Shaping Up; Week 12
I’m Shaping Up; Week 12 What happened to Week 11 you may be asking? Well, more travel equals less time to write, but well needed rest from most activities. I have also decided to stop obsessing over the scale for a few weeks. My low-end weigh-in of 208 was so welcomed, but it made the slight bounce during travel too stressful. It’s funny that after monitoring your caloric intake and physical output, you can tell where your body falls along the numeric […]
Companion of Fools
Companion of Fools Proverbs 13:20 – “Whoever walks with the wise becomes wise, but the companion of fools will suffer harm” Have you ever got into trouble because you were with someone not doing right? As a child, I received quite a whipping from my Dad because my older brother played with matches and caught a tree on fire. I was a victim of association. I was only watching. When his foolishness blew up, I caught the shrapnel. That’s what the wisdom […]
National Police Week: What is a Police Officer?
In Honor of National Police Week, I will dedicate each day to a personal friend lost in the line of duty. Each loved their country, their community, their agency and mostly their families. Please join us in celebrating not how they died, but how they lived their heroic lives.
Can You See It? – By: Chaplain Ronnie Melancon
Happy Mother’s Day. I miss you mom
Police Chief Scott Silverii: Sheepdogs in the Fringe
Editor’s NOTE: Originally posted at The Graveyard Shift as a contributing guest of Lee Lofland. Police Chief Scott Silverii: Sheepdogs in the Fringe I was recently asked to speak at a book reading for the local library to discuss my latest work on cop culture, “A Darker Shade of Blue; From Public Servant to Professional Deviant.” Unsure of what was expected, I looked for key sections or excerpts that might appeal to the civilian public. One of the selections discussed why cops […]
I’m Shaping Up; Week 10
I’m Shaping Up; Week 10 I stood on the scale while exhaling as hard as I could. I was hoping to end this week around 210lbs. I had not even smelled a carb all week, and enjoyed a solid return to my eating strategy. Looking down, I cannot say I was disappointed. Just the opposite, I was shocked. I was at 208 lbs, and not seen the “single digit” side of 200 since my weight marched upwards over two years ago. I […]
Nicholls State University Baseball; Thank You
Generous offer “How would you like to throw out the first pitch?” NSU Head Baseball Coach Seth Thibodeaux asked a few weeks ago. “Uh….” I so eloquently replied. Sensing my utter hesitation, Coach Thibodeaux followed with, “Okay, how about Max?” Generous with their time A few days later, on a gloriously sunny afternoon we arrived at my favorite college baseball park. Coach Thibodeaux greeted us at the NSU dugout and immediately connected with my son. I stood back and watched as Kiddo mixed […]
I’m Shaping Up; Week 9
I’m Shaping Up; Week 9 Though I’m not a big fan of this word, it describes last week’s shaping up efforts; NO. No weight training. No cardio exercises. No adherence to Lt. Lane’s diet. Have I fallen off the health wagon? No. Times like last week can come out of nowhere, and rob us of the luxury of time we thought was ours to schedule. What does it mean for me personally? Well, it does not good beating myself up over it. […]
Are You a Creature?
Are You a Creature I’ve known a few people who fit the Creature moniker better than others, but the truth is we are all creatures. We cannot think of anything or anyone not having a beginning. Creatures are created; Period! It is beyond my understanding to reasonably think there is no God, yet far more brilliant minds than mine reason that very thing – you may be one of them. It is because human reason cannot explain God. It is a Spiritual […]