Today I found out that the remaining gas ‘project’ or ‘survey’ is going to cost another $4,000.  It seems that for business, this is becoming a normal fee to get anything accomplished.  We just finished paying a business $4,000 to complete a series of government approvals, business permit requirements that would have caused several months more of delay.  Not only is the gas ‘cost’ for usage going to TRIPLE for use in the Cafe, they want me to pay exhorbidant fees to be able to do it.

I’ve come to realize that it’s nothing personal.  It’s the system.  A broken, illogical mess of regulations and ‘chiefs’ that create stop-gaps for personal gain.  It’s rarely one person creating problems.  In this case, I really like the gas folks, they seem honest, they only know one way – and it’s a mess of paperwork and hurdles intended to disuade private ownership from a cold era.  Lord help us!

One of my favorite characters is Inspector Dreyfus from the Pink Panther series.  Over time, having to deal with the bumbling Inspector Clueso drives him slowly insane.   The progression from minor annoyance, to the twitching eye, to lunacy is an enjoyable treat to watch.  Today when I came home, Deb looked at me with a cautious, “so.. how did it go”.. all I had to do was twitch my eye and she knew, this place may get the better of me yet!

Lord Jesus, I am thankful for being alive.  Thankful for an open heart that has seen its depravity and by your grace, surrendered.  Use us in this crazy world.  Let our life be spent pursuing your glory, in all situations.