LIVING Letter
An e-newsletter of THE LIVING WAY
Issue #10: Eating Habits: Where Do They Originate?
9-7-08
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CONTENTS:  
1. Scheduled meetings and events
2. Ministry update from Mary Louise;Town Jaqua, Hallelujah Acres Health Minister
3  Feature article: "Eating Patterns: Where Do They Originate?"
4. LIVING resources
5. Buying Tips and more
6) LIVING recipe: V-Great Drink
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1. Schedule of meetings and upcoming events:  

HANDS-ON HEALTH-   "Exercising for Life!"- lecture and video Thursday, September 11, 2008 5:30-7:30PM at the Winslow Public Library For more information, visit http://www.livway.org/meetings_health   ________________________________________  

2. Ministry update  

Dear Friends,  
Summer is slipping away and a hint of fall is in the air. To the disappointment of some Mainers (especially gardeners),  the hot, humid 'dog days' of August never arrived. Instead, unusually wet and cool temperatures settled in which took a toll on many crops, tomatoes in particular. Our tomatoes are limping along, an indication that our harvest will definitely be smaller this year. Nevertheless, the rest of the garden is growing well, and we have begun the herculean task of processing the harvest for winter storage. Our fleet of dehydrators is running around the clock and freezers are filling up with vegetable juice, raw spaghetti sauce, and raw soup stock (blended tomatoes, fresh herbs, cucumbers and more). As we lovingly process and store this year's harvest, we are once again reminded of the goodness of our Heavenly Father to give us such beautiful food!   On September 11 we will celebrate our twelfth year on the  'Hallelujah Diet.' It is curious that our 'wake up' call to ultimate health came on this infamous '911' day.  We are thankful for the ministry of Hallelujah Acres that met us in our time of distress and showed us the way out of the wilderness of sickness and pain. Traveling through the valley of the shadow of death is no picnic. In fact, it is living hell. Sickness is definitely not the way YHVH intended life to be, but often we experience hard places in order to find  what life is all about. Thus the journey out of our health crisis  came in the form of the Hallelujah Diet. From the moment we changed our diet, we began to live again. It is now twelve years later, and we are healthier today than ever before.  Our testimony bears record that proper diet does have a profound affect on the quality of one's health.   We are happy to report that our Fourth Annual LIVE FOOD PICNIC was a resounding success with close to thirty in attendance, many of whom were new faces. The food was delicious, our speaker an inspiration, and the evening sunny and bright. Everyone enjoyed 'eating live.' This new experience in dining captivated the tastebuds of all. Many commented that live food tasted better than they expected! Hooray!   If you missed last month's Live Food Picnic, remember that reruns are being shown twice daily on Channel 7 local access TV. Also, if you want copies of any of our programs, DVDs are available from Channel 7 for a small fee. Contact Laura at 207-453-9895 for more details. We are thankful for the opportunity to share our monthly health meetings to a television audience of approximately 15,000 people. We meet increasing numbers of viewers as we are out and around, and are glad to hear that they are enjoying our programs. The health message is definitely making an impact on our community.   Meanwhile, back in the office, I have had little time to work on our website. However, I have posted a few new recipes and hope to upload new photos of our garden and our local raw events soon. For now, check out a few of my new recipes... Melon Frappe http://www.livway.org/drinks Curried Collard Soup http://www.livway.org/soup 'Tis the season to enjoy 'eating LIVE!' Give it a try!  

Lastly, I have taken the liberty of listing a few local up-coming events in this newsletter. We encourage you to consider participating in these activities that support a healthy, wholesome lifestyle. It is a good time of year to celebrate the garden harvest and meet others who appreciate the benefits of natural living.   ________________________________________________

3) Featured Article: 'Eating Habits: Where Do They Originate?'  

If there's one fact that I've learned in nearly twelve years as a health minister, it is this: eating habits are private property, and woe be to anyone who dares to tresspass! Nevertheless, for the sake of better health, tresspass I must, for lives are at stake, and the choices we make today shape our tomorrows.  

It is no secret that many people are in sad shape today. Physically, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually, they are hurting. Many struggle through life with a quality of health that is compromised at best. Without radical change, most people are fatalities waiting to happen, because they are traveling the wrong road: the road to destruction. This should not be. There is a better way to live.   Lifestyles and personal diets are as varied as the sands of the sea, but generally speaking, the all-American way of life is nothing short of a killer. Look around you and people are coughing, wheezing, limping. Their countenances are pallid and drawn. The vast majority is overweight or suffering from some kind of sickness or pain. If this is the American dream, it appears more like a nightmare to me. It's time to wake up before we destroy ourselves!  

Perhaps how and why we live the way we do is not an issue with most people. Nevertheless, the corporate mentality toward self-destruction bears address, if not, discussion. If we dissect our respective lifestyles, hopefully  we will learn how to better care for ourselves. Based on this premise, let us examine from whence come our lifestyles, especially our eating habits.   My experience as a health minister has afforded me some insight into the why's and wherefore's of personal dietary choices. Allowing for my years of counseling to help others climb out of destructive eating patterns, I present the following synopsis into the common origins of most eating habits. Hopefully these observations will help you better understand how, why, and where eating patterns originate.  

1) FAMILY. Most eating habits are learned from parents within the home. Dietary choices of parents are passed on to children, establishing eating patterns that can, for better or worse, last a life time. These patterns imprint memories, and memories evoke emotion. Thus eating becomes more than a mechanical exercise. It is an association and/or attachment to those persons held dear. Mom's baked apple pie with cheese, aunt Susie's pot roast, and grandma's fresh-baked bread trigger emotional responses that move the appetite. So it is that family ties are often cemented together by certain foods that become family traditions. Known as 'comfort foods' by some health experts, these traditional family favorites more often feed memories than nourish the body.  

2)FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS. Lifestyles and eating patterns of close friends or neighbors also shape eating patterns. Eating habits often rub off because of admiration. It is said that imitation is the sincerest form of flattery. So it is that eating habits can be highly influenced by the company we keep.  

3) SCHOOL . What most Americans know about nutrition is taught to them in school, especially public schools. Sadly, these schools base their curriculum on guidelines that represent government and corporate interests, i.e. food companies whose sole motive is profit. Therefore the educational process becomes a lesson in propaganda, whereby poor nutrition is taught, promoted, and served to innocent, unsuspecting children. Teachers as well as children are thus kept ignorant about proper nutrition.  

4) THE MEDIA. Perhaps the greatest influence on personal eating habits is the media: TV, newspaper, and magazines. It is no secret that Americans are addicted to the visual excitement of television. Nevertheless, this communication devise is also subject to manipulation. TV, newspapers, and magazines are advertising tools for corporate giants like food companies. The media thus becomes a playground for food advertisements as corporate food manufacturers press for sales of their products. Slick advertising campaigns can (and do) paint rosey pictures of potentially harmful products, including pharmaceuticals, often using celebrity sponsors to promote their goods. Many ads are aimed at children to draw their appetites in a prescribed direction. This type of promotion is known as 'conditioning' and includes various forms of mind control.  

5) CHURCH. Most churches do not incorporate health and wellness issues in their teachings. In fact, most pastors and church elders have no knowledge of proper nutrition. Furthermore, they claim that diet is not addressed in scripture, and therefore one's diet does not matter. Thus the church becomes a playground for wreckless eating habits, many of which are fostered, promoted, and sanctioned by the clergy. Church suppers are notorious places for ill-begotten 'foods' that foist poor eating choices upon innocent, unsuspecting souls. This type of indoctrinization is done in YHVH's name.  

6) DOCTORS. If any one profession is revered above all, it is that of the doctor. Most people have an unrelenting attachment to their doctors, believing that the doctor is the end-all when it comes to issues of health. However, most doctors are not schooled in nutrition. They do not understand that there is a connection between diet and health. Sadly, most doctors believe that diet doesn't matter. Therefore, the advice, especially nutritional advice, of a doctor can be mis-leading, if not destructive. When patients follow the nutritional advice of their doctors, they often take their lives into their own hands. Medically approved diets can promote dangerous, if not deadly, eating habits.  

When all is said and done, eating habits are formed from childhood and evolve over a lifetime as one adds or subtracts to suit his/her fancy. Sadly, these habits are usually based on a conglomeration of beliefs and opinions (personal or otherwise) that may or may not have anything to do with proper nutrition. As good as Aunt Susie's pot roast tasted or how much you love the smell of steak on the grill, these are not  foods that feed the body. Thus eating often transcends the mechanical process to become a sensual experience for many, an exercise in satisfying the tastebuds rather than the nutritional needs of the body. Ultimately, eating habits are a matter of will. For better or worse, we eat what we want to eat.  

So it is that much controversy exists in the world about diet. Everyone has a different take on what we should or should not eat.  Therefore it is not surprising that most eating habits are often born out of confusion as the general populace makes a daily stab at satisfying hunger or just plain surviving. Mere existence is not an acceptable form of life for some people, however. There are those who are making a conscious effort to unravel the mystery of life in order to experience ultimate health. Be they 'religious' or not, they are discovering that laws of the universe do exist, laws that govern wellbeing with a promise to longevity. These laws, established by YHVH Almighty, are eternal and are therefore as good today as when first decreed. They cannot be disannulled. That man largely ignores and rebels against these laws is fact. Nevertheless, ignorance of the law is no excuse. That man violated YHVH's Paradisical laws in the beginning by choosing a lifestyle that was contrary to His Divine plan is also fact. Though man forsook YHVH's plant-based diet in favor of eating animal-based foods does not negate His Paradisical law nor is it a substitute for His original diet plan as recorded in Genesis 1:29. On the contrary, the increasing amount of sickness, pain, and death in the world proves that man's concept of nutrition is a dismal failure and that YHVH's eating plan was right all along. A plant-based diet is the key to optimum health. In the Kingdom, we will only be eating living food.   In conclusion, if we truly care for ourselves and want to experience life as YHVH intended, we need to base our eating habits on the only righteous authority there is: YHVH's word. He is sovereign and His word is the law of the universes. It stands to reason that He Who made us knows best how to care for us. Therefore, why compromise daily diets by eating harmful foods? Why cave in to the consumption of french fries, sodas, hamburgers, coffee, pizza, ice cream, etc? If we truly want to be healthy, we will exercise our will to eat what is good for us. Scripture says, "It is better to trust in YHVH than to put confidence in man" (Psalms 118:8 ). As good as mom's apple baked pie and cheese smelled and tasted, it was and is not nutritionally sound. It is time to refocus our eating habits, basing them on the truth of YHVH's word.   

We only have one life to live, and what we place into our mouths each day will determine how well our tomorrows will be. Not all the money, best health care or best opinions of worldly men and even well-meaning relatives, friends, and pastors can give you excellent health. Quality of life is a choice, a matter of will and personal responsibilty. Choose to be healthy one bite at a time that you might live long and prosper. Your life is worth it!  

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4) LIVING Resources  

Fairfield Garden Project
Part of our mission as a health ministry is to encourage the practice of gardening and participation in local agricultural projects. For reasons obvious, working the land for the sake of a healthy food source is wisdom in action. With increased awareness of food safety issues and potential food shortages, community gardens are springing up across the country. Those who have never planted are taking to the soil and discovering the joy of 'home-grown' over 'store bought.' If you live in or near Fairfield, Maine, consider becoming involved in the Lawrence High School Community Garden Project. Like our much-talked about Troy Howard Middle School Garden Project in Belfast, Maine, the Lawrence project is an opportunity just starting to happen. Thanks to the efforts of Fairfield resident, David Perry, the Lawrence Garden Project is up and running, though in need of volunteers. Locals with a heart to garden and an eye to eating well are encouraged to lend a hand for the benefit of all. The garden project is located at Lawrence High School on Bull Dog Rd. Call David Perry  at 314-3439 for more information. Your support is welcomed!  

RawMaine Meet-Up   
Attention locals: RawMaine is holding another spendiferous raw potluck on Sunday, September 21 at 5PM. As as added bonus, there will be a raw demo following dinner. The theme of the demo will be fermented foods: how to prepare cultured vegetables...sauerkraut and more! For more information, visit http://www.rawfood.meetup.com/459. Consider car pooling! If you're interested in attending, contact us  thelivingway@livway.org  

Palermo Film Series and More
A number of years ago, we discovered The Palermo Community Foundation tucked away in rural Palermo (Maine), a community-oriented, non-profit organization that offers locals a number of opportunities for education, community action, and friendly socializing. If you're one of those people who likes to spend a worthwhile evening out, consider attending the Foundation's Film Series and pot luck. Bring a healthy dish to share around and enjoy a film that is educational as well as informative. Subjects include health and environmental issues, alternative energy strategies, etc. The series is held on the the fourth Friday of each month. Dinner is at 6PM, followed by a film or talk at 7PM, and is free to the public. "How Do We Get Through This Winter " will be the subject of discussion on September 26. For more information, call Connie or Phil at 207-993-2327.  

"Saving Seeds"
Those who value seeds and seek to protect and preserve their integrity will be glad to know that the latest issue of "Saving Seeds", a free publication from Food For Maine's Future is available for download at http://www.foodformainesfuture.org Copies are also now on local newsstands. Make it a point to be informed about local agricultural issues. Invest some time and attention for the sake of living well.  

Common Ground Fair
If you are looking for a fun, informative outing, consider attending the Common Ground Fair, September 19-21. This 'think-green' agricultural fair is geared toward bringing the farm up-close and personal. Meet Maine farmers and area growers as well as Maine craftsmen and vendors. Visit farm animal exhibits, listen to country bands, and hear special speakers. For more information, visit http://www.mofga.org  

Healthy news sources
There are many excellent health news sources that offer a wide variety of information. We recommend that you consider subscribing to some of these free e-newsletters. A couple trusted sources are: http://www.organicconsumers.org http://www.newstarget.com  

Hallelujah Acres Publications
Don't forget that Hallelujah Acres sends out a free bi- monthly magazine, The Hallelujah Diet and Lifestyle (formerly 'Back to the Garden'). George Malkmus, founder of Hallelujah Acres, also sends out a free, weekly e-newsletter, Hallelujah Acres Health Tip. Both publications are excellent sources of inspiring information. Subscribe by visiting http://www.hacres.com   News worth noting FDA declares war on lettuce and spinach: http://www.organicconsumers.org/irrad/irradiationcomment.htm     ______________________________________________  

5) Buying Tips and Order info  
Tomato Sale Our friends at Half Moon Gardens in Thorndike are having a great sale on their organic tomatoes: regular-sized tomatoes are $1.25 per pound, red/sun gold cherries are $.25 per pound. Place your order asap while supplies last by calling Half Moon Gardens at 568-3738 or emailing  info@halfmoongarden.com  

Peace Meal Farm Produce
This is the time of year to consider 'winter stores'- putting down root vegetables for the cold months. We purchase our organic winter 'rooties' from Peace Meal farm and find their produce to last well into the spring. If you are interested in purchasing 10,25, 50lb. bulk potatoes, carrots, beets, onions, turnips or parsnips, email us thelivingway@livway.org Price is $1.00 per pound.  

Hallelujah Acres If you are interested in purchasing Hallelujah Acres products, we encourage people to contact HA directly. We do not stock their full product line. It is easier and faster to purchase directly through HA. However, we would appreciate your using our PIN#407 when you order. In this way, you will be supporting our ministry through your HA puchases. We thus appreciate your consideration, since this ministry is supported through product sales and donations. HA occasionally waves or runs specials rates on shipping. Quanitity pricing is available through our ministry. Contact us for details.  

If you want to purchase equipment such as a juicer, dehydrator,  VitaMix, etc., please order directly through us. Your order can be dropped shipped in a matter of days. Other materials and products exclusive of HA can be purchased from us by appointment. Call us to make arrangements. ________________________________________

6) LIVING Recipe: V-Great Drink  

With the tomato season upon us, here is a delicious way to taste the garden as it is in full swing. Combine ingredients according to availability and personal preference.  

2-3 medium tomatoes
1 stalk celery
couple stems parsley fresh basil, oregano
1 medium cucumber
few beet greens
slice onion or scallion
1-2 large cloves garlic
dash of Himalayah Living Crystal salt
1 tsp fresh lemon juice (optional) 1 Tbs. hemp oil (optional)
1-2 cups purified water  

Cut up ingredients and blend with sufficient water until desired consistency. Drink and smile!     Go organic for the sake of your health! __________________________________________

This LIVING Letter comes to you in Messiah's love to encourage you toward achieving superior health.  Healing of the whole man is the promise of our Heavenly Father. Begin now to receive your new life...naturally and spiritually. YHVH is able to do great and wondrous works, if we will but trust and obey Him. YHVH bless you!   For your excellent health and His glory, Mary http://www.livway.org   ________________________________________  

THE LIVING WAY is only one facet of Gertrude Ministries, a ministry dedicated to teaching kingdom life. Yahshua came to give us life and life abundantly. It is our privilege to help you realize life to the fullest both naturally and spiritually. Feel free to ask for prayer or counsel concerning your needs no matter what they may be. gertrudeministries@gertrudeministries.org