GOOD THINKING: NOTHING SPECTACULAR ABOUT AUGUST

Poor old August! Unless one has a birthday or an anniversary in August, there is absolutely nothing spectacular or notable about this summer-is-almost-over month.

Originally this month was called Sextilis; it stood in sixth place on the calendar. Then, as changes in the calendar occurred, Sextilis was moved to the eighth position in the year, and was renamed August.

In the days of the Roman Caesars, the Roman Senate had named one of the months in honor of Julius Caesar. Later, when Emperor Augustus came to power, he was not to be outdone. Augustus had the Roman Senate to name another of the months to honor him. Sextilis, or August, in those days had 30 days in contrast to July's 31 days. Emperor Augustus decreed that one day be taken from February and added to August, making it equal with July. Power and politics seem to affect our lives in numerous ways!

So, what can one say on behalf of poor old August? This end-of-the-summer month does offer us several special days to celebrate: Aug. 2 comes in as National Mustard Day; National Relaxation Day is Aug. 15; and who would not celebrate Aug. 22, Be An Angel Day; finally, the old adage reminds us that If the 24th of August be fair and clear, then hope for a prosperous autumn that year."

Months are like people. God has created all of us. Each of us is unique. God has placed us where we most need to be. God gives us a role to play in life and the whole world is our stage. Some months, like people, are more showy and spectacular; others are more reserved and sedate. Yet, each can glorify God by rejoicing in who we are, by accepting our place in life, and by being the best we can be!

Here's to August! A month with a personality all its own!