Category: February

The veteran of the month is Helen Sajor, born in 1933, from Camphill Pennsylvania. Mrs. Sajor comes from immigrant parents, her mother from Salvikia and her father from Ukraine. Her father was a coal miner and died in 1939 from an explosion. This left her mother to maintain the household and the three children. Her mother cleaned houses for money and they got social security, it was $14 for eac child and her mother got $20. It was enough to live on, so as the kids got older they began working too. 

Helen graduated highschool in 1952 and began school to become a nurse, and in those day that meant three years of school to become a registered nurse, but to receive a degree it was an extra two. After three years Helen was practicing medicine and she met her husband who was attending Harvard Law School. She never finished nursing school, because they had their first child and went on to have 6 more kids the following six years. Helen herself was never in the military but her husband fought in the Korean war as a ranger captain, three of her children are Army officers, and three grandchildren are in the military. She said by having so many people she loves being in the military it made her realize how big of a commitment the military is. 

Helens kids being in the military is what sparked another big event in not only her life, but so many other veterans and veterans families lives. When her one son, Frank Sajor, came home early from Iraq they started the Pennsylvania Wounded Warriors in his honor. The organization is a non-profit that pays veterans bills, in some cases as soon as 48 hours, and they also point veterans in the right direction to receive the correct help they need. In the beginning the organization started when General Sajor started going to Walter Reed Hospital in Washington and seeing what the veterans needed most. It turned out it was mostly financial needs that were not being met and the mental health of the soldiers was not being taken care of. Through talking with families of veterans they learned that many soldiers were commiting suicide, because they did not feel like the person they were before enlisting. 

Shortly after this the Sajors were contacted by Walter Reed and asked if they could house soldiers for the weekend as a way to get out of the hospital and have a sense of normalcy. At this time Mr. and Mrs. Sajor were living on a farm house, with a complete guest house, a pool, and a stream for fishing so they agreed to not only have the veterans come and stay, but their families as well. They received a phone call from a mother that said they were never offered for a family to come and took up the opportunity, and after that the phone calls kept coming in. This came to a halting end when General Sajor was diagnosed with cancer and died a few months later. Helen decided that she couldn’t maintain the house and the families alone and stopped it, but it wasn’t the end of her story helping veterans. Instead she decided that she would help with any bill that veterans needed help paying and this was the beginning of the Pennsylvania Wounded Warriors. 

The organization started with 6 local volunteers and now has 54 volunteers over different counties in the whole state. The biggest supporters are school, teachers, and the people who donate monthly amounts. When people learn that not only all the volunteers don’t get paid, but Helen herself does not profit from any of the donations received, it encourages people to donate, because they learn it is a good organization and the only intention is to help soldiers in need. She likes to be very upfront about where all money goes, so in the informationally brochure that is given out at all events, letters, and when meeting people it includes on the back page the amount of money donated the previous year and where the money went. Out of every donation only four cents from every dollar is used towards the brochures and the remaining 96 cents goes directly towards a veteran in need. The organization is able to stay successful even though they don’t spend money on marketing, because the biggest promotion they get is through word of mouth, whether it be a veteran they helped telling another veteran or families telling other families. 

The biggest struggle hit when Covid started in 2020, because the people who normally donate didn’t have the extra money anymore. Helen said that those who were more fortunate and in a stable financial position came through. People who were donating $25 a month started donating $50 and so on. This did help some, but at the end of the year they saw a 40% decrease in donations. The Pennsylvania Wounded maintained its ability to consistently help veterans, because of the savings that were built up from the more generous donations. In some circumstances different amounts of money were left to them in will’s. Mrs. Sajor said she has also received larger amounts of money as big as $44,000 all because of their mission and how pure it is. 

When asked if Mrs. Sajor ever expected the organization to become as big as it has, she simply said no. In the beginning Helen and her husband called it a mom and pop organization and never expected to grow to the extent it did. She believes the reason it grew into what it is, is because of the work they do and the mission they are trying to accomplish. They get donations from people who live outside of Pennsylvania from as far away as Florida. She believes these donations come from people who have moved out of state or veterans who understand how hard the struggle can be to get back on your feet. The Pennsylvania Wounded has also made its way into the local papers in different communities, which spreads the word even farther. Lastly, she believed one tactic that encourages people to keep donating is that every time they receive a donation a thank you letter is sent out to the person acknowledging the donation that was given. It shows a little bit of apparition that people deserve for being generous to those who aren’t as fortunate. 

When it comes to the future of the organization Mrs.Sajor said that as long as people need help and know of the organization it will continue to grow. As the organization does grow the opportunities to spread also continue to grow. This passing veterans day they were invited to be in the Pittsburgh parade and this opened the opportunity to spread and get volunteers on the other side of the state. At a certain spot during the parade they were announcing what each float was, and when their car went by the magnetic sticker on the side, people were donating right then, because they already understood it was a good cause. She said her hope is that one person tells another person, and then another person and the veterans who truly need the help get it. 

Mrs. Sajor said the most rewarding part of the work she does is knowing the impact it is having. She reads and saves all the thank you notes she receives, because the work she does is something that she holds a lot of pride in. One story in particular that she remembered was when a family reached out, because they had no money to plan a funeral. They were able to give the assistance, and made her think about the fact she was able to help someone who had gone everywhere else and asked for help, but got nothing. Helen sounded amazed herself while saying they can help people within 48 hours of a request coming in. She also said it is the most emotional part, because every veteran they are helping has no other support system or resource they can reach out to help them. She compared the respect that soldiers receive now and stated how deserved and impactful it is, because they have earned it. They took on a responsibility that many people couldn’t handle. 

 Over the course of the years Helen has received many awards for the work she has done, but there were two that stuck out to her the most. The first one being The Adjutant General award at the Indiantown Gap. Her picture is hung up in the hall of fame and she is the only non military or government personal features there. The other award that she was given and stood out to her was the John F. Kennedy award. It was the first award she ever received, due to the Pennsylvania Wounded Warriors and it went to anyone who assisted the disabled. It was given to her by a senator who was disabled herself and in a wheelchair.  

Helen said she starts every speech she gives with the quote that General Sajor said “Those who risk their lives in combat in the defense of our nation deserve a place of honor above all others in our society. Their courage has made everything possible for us.” 

Donation can be given to the Pennsylvania Wounded Warriors at https://www.pawoundedwarriors.org/donate or checks can be sent directly to 

Pennsylvania Wounded Warriors Inc.    

1013 Mumma Road                             

Suite 203                                                  

Wormleysburg, PA 17043    

Or 

Pennsylvania Wounded Warriors Inc.    

1117 Country Club road

Camp Hill, Pa 17011

Outline 

• Who is Mrs, Sajor -3.(second part then first) 1. 
• Who is her family 1.  2. 
• What is pa wounded warriors and how did it start 4. 
• Did you expect it to become as big as it is today 7. 
• And in the future what do expect to see happen 8. 
• What is the most rewarding part 9. 
• What is the emotional part 11. 
• Awards she has received 10. 
• One funny story from her past 
• End with highlighted quote

The one word that I thought about after reading the first reading and the gospel was the word relationship. In the first reading we hear about Samuel and Eli and their relationship with God the Father, in the Gospel we hear how Peter and Andrew begin their relationship with Jesus. With that said I would like to start my homely with a story about relationships.

This story is about a lawyer who lived 100 miles away from his elderly father. They had not seen each other in a number of years. The father called up his son and asks, “When are you going to visit.” The son proceeds to tell him about all the demands on his time with meetings, going to court, and so on and so on. So, the father says to the son, “When I die do you intend to come to my funeral?” The son responds, “Of course I’d come to your funeral.” The father replies, “Good, let’s make a deal, forget the funeral. I need you more now than I will then.”

What is the meaning of life? Many great philosophers and religious leaders have given various answers to that question. But only Jesus Christ has given the complete answer in today’s Gospel passage. John the Baptist, who has been preparing his own disciples to recognize the Messiah sees Jesus walking along the bank of the Jordan River. John points at him and tells his two disciples that he is the One, the Lamb of God, the Messiah. As the two disciples approach Jesus, Jesus asks them: “What are you looking for?” In other words, where are you searching for meaning in your life? Surprised by the question, they just say, “Teacher, where are you staying?” Jesus invites them to walk with him, to be his companions. That is Christ’s answer to the question of the meaning of life. The meaning of life is a relationship to be lived out, it is a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.

            If the meaning of life is to be found in the relationship with Christ, then our highest priority in life is to try and deepen that relationship. There are three ways to do this. First, we have to develop a life of prayer. Prayer no only involves saying prayers but it also involves reading and meditating on the Bible and filling our hearts with gratitude for God’s many gifts. Second, we have to build our lives around the sacraments. We must open our hearts to God in confession and receiving the body of Christ in Holy Communion. And third to deepen our friendship with Christ. Friendship with Christ, means wanting and working for whatever Christ wants. Today’s Psalm puts it beautifully: “Here I am, Lord, I come to do your will.” Prayer, sacraments and obedience to Christ’s plan, these are the foundation of a meaningful life. A life with a relationship with Christ which will reach an everlasting fulfillment in heaven.

O Israel, thou hast destroyed thyself; but in me is thine help” (Hosea 13:9). I once observed with shock, the unconscious reaction of a young man who could not get hemp for about two hours. His whole body vibrate uncontrollably until he manage to escape, smoked hemp and returned looking for normal and happier. This is how many young person have destroyed their lives and their future, experimenting with forbidden substances, queer lifestyles and sinful habits that have ruin them. According to Jonathan Edward, ” sin is the ruin and the misery of the soul, it is destructive in it’s nature; and if God should leave it without restraint, there would need nothing else to make the soul perfect miserable.” But Jesus died on the cross of Calvary to redeem the human race from the consequence of sin. Continued indulgence in sinful practice only destroys the body and slowly damns the soul.

Berries And More Berries

1. Berries are the brain food to improve memory. Specifically blueberries are the power berries to improve memory. Berries are chucked full of antioxidants. Eating just a 1/4 cup of blueberries everyday will help your memory. True Stories; Two examples in particular my aunt who noticed she was becoming more forgetful started to worry, and asked her doctor if there was anything she could do to help her memory. He told her blueberries, everyday. She started eating blueberries everyday, and noticed an improvement in her memory. The second example is my mom. She constantly holds up the blueberry flag declaring how they have really helped her. For the past 2 months or so she has not missed a single day of eating her berries and tells me not only did it help her memory, but has given her a second benefit with elimination.

Blueberries And Beyond

Blueberries are the best because of the anthocyanin purple blue pigments and chlorogenic acid found in them. Not only do they help the brain but they are excellent anti-inflammatory agents within them. Other berries which have great health benefits are cherries, cranberries, and raspberries.

Spinach 4 memory

Mother Always Said Eat Your Spinach

2. Spinach contains potassium, magnesium, vitamin B12, and vitamin B6, and folic acid which are a great combination for brain power. The folic acid in spinach helps protect neurons in the brain. These vitamins also play a big part in helping to make healthy red blood cells which is the vehicle to carry oxygen to the brain. Spinach has multitude benefits besides being a healthy brain food. Potassium and magnesium are proven agents in helping to lower the blood pressure.  So listening to your mother when she said eat your spinach she’s right. Keep eating your spinach.

Oranges

3.Oranges are mostly known for their high concentration of Vitamin C. Whether eaten fresh or as fresh orange juice, they are powerful brain boosters, and they are well-known as being a great immune booster. Oranges also protect against heart disease. Oranges contain flavonoids which also is an added benefit for helping to prevent varicose veins.

Oranges being high in vitamin C is the agent to protect your body against free radicals which are damaging to the body. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant. Oranges are heart healthy, and great for starting your day with a glass of orange juice.

Baked Potato

Great for memory and lowering blood pressureGreat for memory and lowering blood pressure

Baked Potato

4. Who knew? Potatoes to improve memory. Yes potatoes do help with memory. Potatoes are loaded with potassium which is a nutrient to aid in lowering and/or regulating blood pressure.

5. Black-eyed peas and not the band..lol. Yes black-eye peas are a great source for brain power and improving memory. Black-eye peas also have calcium which is an added bonus.

6. Pomegranate, do not worry drinking pomegranate juice is just as good. Pomegranate has multi-purpose benefits. Remember the rule rich color foods everyday in your diet. Dark greens, and your pomegranate is also said to be good for helping to prevent cancer. Pretty much most health nuts are familiar with foods which help to boost your memory. I tried to find some other alternatives that are less commonly found on most super brain food lists.

As always your nuts, and whole grains such as flaxseed oil, walnuts, and omega 3 are always good to mention.

Pomegranate To Your Memory

Pomegranate for health and memomryPomegranate for health and memory

Likewise, ye younger, submit yourself unto the elder. Yea , all of you be subject one to another , and be clothed with humility : for God resisteth the proud ,and giveth grace to the humble ” (1peter 5:5)

Driving down a country raid, Steven Beck came to a very narrow bridge in front of which was posted to the sign : “YIELD.” Seeing no on-coming cars, he continued across the bridge to his destination. On his way back , he came to to the same one lane bridge where he saw another “YIELD” sign had been placed at both ends of the bridge requesting motorists to give the right of way so as to prevent head – on collision. 

     Do not ignore the voice of the light of the world, which commands you to to ” be subject to one another ” (Ephesians 5:21) . the bible commands you to let the other have the right of way and avoid interpersonal head-on collision. If you yield, you walk in the light with God. Be submissive and receive God’s grace.

When thinking of including exercise in your daily routine, you should know the long term benefits of exercising that will keep you fit and smart for years. Yes, you can say that everyone knows exercise is good for health but is that tangible enough to motivate and to get you in regular exercise, probably not. There are people who want immediate results but I suggest you think about the long term benefits to exercising. This is because if you are young now, you have more brain power and physical power but with the passage of time you will be getting older and both your physical and brain power will be decreasing. So, ensuring a fit and healthy future should be your ultimate target of exercising while short term and immediate benefits are also available. Let’s see what long term exercising benefits you can get from systematic and regular exercise.

Source

Protection From Diseases

You can get affected by any disease at any age, but once you get older the chances of getting affected by various diseases increase to a high extent as older people are more susceptible to diseases. When women get older they become more susceptible to osteoporosis and regular exercise can be a very effective way to get rid of this. Remember, the earlier you will be starting exercising the more protection you will be getting in future. Long term exercise can also give you protection against heart disease, colon cancer and type 2 Diabetes.

Weight Control:

One of the most crucial factors for maintaining a healthy lifestyle is controlling weight effectively according to your body size and shape. With a regular and consistent routine of exercise you can easily maintain your weight. Your weight control exercise routine should include both strength training and aerobic components which will help you maintain an optimal body weight which is the prerequisite of a healthy life. Maintaining body weight from an early age has some lifelong exercising benefits.

Stronger Brain Power

One of the major benefits of exercisingis that it can improve your mental health and strength along with your physical fitness. Studies show that people who maintain a regular exercise routine from an early age are less likely to be affected by dementia as well as Alzheimer’s diseases. So, by participating in regular exercise you can reduce your risk of being affected by such diseases by 40 percent. If you didn’t start exercising in your early years, it’s high time you start exercising for both your physical and mental strength and fitness. Earlier you were asked to include aerobic components in your routine and doing so you can improve your memory effectively. Aerobic exercise improves the flow of blood to your brain and thus improves your memory and this has been proven in a research performed in 2007.

Some more physical benefits to exercising:

Reduces the chances of premature death

Reduces the number of sick days

Reduces symptoms of arthritis

Reduces cancer risk

Reduces osteoporosis risk

Reduces diabetes risk

Reduces the level of cholesterol

Reduces body fat

Reduces blood pressure

Benefits of Exercising

Till now we have discussed the physical benefits of exercisingand now it’s time to focus on the psychological benefits to exercising.Let’s see what psychological benefits you can get from regular exercise.

Increased Self-Esteem and Self-Confidence: Regular exercise makes you fit and allows you to go as you wish. Thus exercise makes you feel happy, secure and confident as well.

Reduced Stress and Anxiety: Stress and disappointment are common for all and the only solution to this issue is to change our way of response. Science has proved that exercise is a great way of relieving anxiety and stress. Neurochemicals are released in our brain and the process is stimulated by regular exercise which reduces the level of our anxiety and stress. Exercise also increases our ability to respond to stress and helps our psychological systems to run properly.

Increased Mental Alertness: One of the major exercising benefitsis it increases our mental alertness. According to the American Heart Association website, physically fit people are more likely to be mentally fit and alert and this is effective for both young and old people. Mental fitness increases our ability of learning and thus we can become smarter through consistent and regular exercise.

These are some key benefits of exercisingfrom both physical and psychological aspects. If you really care about a healthy lifestyle then there is no alternative to regular exercise and you must get used to it for a healthier future.