Category: Uncategorized (Page 8 of 26)

“A friend indeed is a friend in need,” Canadian, Candace Osmond, author, editor, and prolific writer—wrote that this old adage has been around for centuries; …(It) can be found in the writings of the Greek philosopher Ennius in the 3rd century BC.  In essence it means that the friend who helps you when you at your time of great need, (Or when no one else will help you). Scientific studies indicate that a person can have only about five friends like that. (Emphasis added.) Giving some thought to her ratio gave me pause. What is my ratio of friends?

My first acquaintance who met the definition of a “Friend,” was Carl—in high school; the “need” that stands out was that I needed to take the driving test for my drivers License. I did not have access to a car. Carl let me take the driving test in his own car. We served in the Army National Guard together, and over the years our families spent time together. We remained friends till his death a few years ago.

Jessie was another “friend in need…” In college I was struggling with English Composition 201. Jessie, a Navy Veteran, and fellow classmate, took me into his friendship, his home (and delicious meals June cooked for us), and “held my feet to the fire!” studying together! It laid the foundation for all the papers I had to write in graduate school, and in my becoming an author.

Jim, my college roommate, was a very smart man and a fun guy. (he, too was a Navy Veteran). Our circles of pals sometimes intersected, but Jim was always there when I needed him. Jim sometimes went with me to the youth group I led back then—and entertained them—especially noteworthy were his Elvis impersonations. I still get happy comments on fond, memories from members of that group. I officiated at Jim’s wedding, and years later, his funeral.

Jerry and I roomed together at Emory while working on our graduate degrees. He was cheerful, thorough in his schoolwork, and a joy to be with. We never experienced discord; Jerry was honest (and a real diplomat), and helped me mend some of my remaining poor study habits. He was an encourager—and later in life led me into some valuable career directions. He seemed more like the brother I never had, than a friend. Jerry died much too soon.

Orvin saved my bacon when I was leading a financial campaign in my first pastorate; the chairman of that enterprise quit just one week before launch day. Although Orvin said he wasn’t sure he was up to it, I didn’t have to beg. He saw my need and stepped up to the task magnificently. Because of his loving care, tenacious labor, and organizational skills, he led the financial campaign over the top! Of those former friends, Orvin is the one who is still alive, I know I could call on him right now and he would be here for me pronto! True friendship goes both ways.

That was then. Now in retirement, I still curate a circle of friends. There are about half dozen—-any one of whom I could call in the middle of the night and say—” I need…” any one would get out of bed and come to my aid (well—I can think of one of them would drowsily say, “I’ll call Uber for you…”( uhhh you know who you are 😉 . I am indeed richly blessed!

I think of a dear friend that Jesus had—Lazarus. Lazarus had a dramatic need—he was desperately ill. Jesus got the message, and traveled something like seventeen miles from across the Jordan to Lazarus’ home in Bethany. Before Jesus arrived at Lasrus’ home, he was told that Lazarus had died; the Gospel of John reports that “Jesus cried.” I know how he felt. I, too, have cried over the death of a friend or a dear one. It shows the depth of love in the friendship.

True friendship runs deep. Do you remember the song that Toy Story made famous–“You’ve Got a Friend in Me!”?! And as the years go by, Our friendship will never die, You’re gonna see it’s our destiny, You’ve got a friend in me… A perfect description of a friend in need, being a Friend indeed!.

©Copyright Willis H. Moore 2023

I recently found the following picture and it inspired me!

A little Sunflower, lifts its bright, smiling head in the midst of, not only a busy city expressway, but also in the middle of a gutter—a little joy–and a joyful sight to me. It is a song, a sermon, a solitary witness to life’s resilience.

Sam Cooke sang in a soft and scintillating voice—The things that I see as I walk along the streets — a little flower that blooms in May, a lovely sunset at the end of a day, someone helping a stranger along the way — that’s heaven to me.

We often say in a rather off-handed way, “Take time to smell the roses.” But do we do that? The noise of life too easily drowns out little joys of living. The smell of coffee brewing, bacon cooking in early dawn, sending its savory scents gliding through the early morning— we tend to notice these because of their arresting aromas. How about pausing to see the palette of color outside, or along a trail (well, sidewalk, too)? It is easy to gawk at splendid colors of Fall yet miss their vibrant joy; colors splash before our unseeing eyes all year long, may be mostly missed while we’re looking for something else.

Little joys bring big benefits. My favorite illustration is that of watching children at Christmas opening gift boxes—only to play more with the boxes than with the toys they held. Imagination blossoms from little joys—vastly different from the overloaded checklists, cramped schedules, or traffic— absorbed by interest in a box, a ball, a stone, or a stick; the contrast is dramatic.

I ran across an insight from Julia Travers, a writer, artist and teacher. —Joy is an ephemeral spark and guidepost found in simple and surprising places. Many kinds of small exchanges and little things can make us feel free, lifted, and joyful. A surge of bright joy might fill our hearts when we hear a favorite song, catch a glimpse of a firefly’s ethereal glow, taste delicious food, or laugh with a loved one. Noticing and experiencing joy in our daily lives is an enlivening, fun, and illuminating practice. Some say individual moments of joy are actually the essence of the abiding happiness we seek.

I notice that Jesus found little joys in the midst of his busy life. While struggling to teach dull ears of his followers, he noticed a Fig tree. A Fig tree! —an excellent illustration of his point. As busy—and maybe as frustrated he must have been with distracted disciples—Jesus paid attention to something as common as a fig tree.

In another ancient venue, where Jesus brought joy to people; when some parents brought their little ones for Jesus to bless, adults in the group objected. They didn’t want children interfering in Jesus’ teaching. But Jesus valued all people—no matter their age. He knew those children mattered—not just to their parents. I can imagine how joyful those parents were that Jesus turned aside. took time, and focused on these children.

I still think of that bright (and I think) joyful little Sunflower glistening in the gutter along a busy freeway! Even if it was’t happy, think of the joy it broought to all those people who did see it!

© Copyright Willis H. Moore 2023

As this holiday begins, I give you my readers—both of you—warm greetings, and great appreciation for your giving—yes your giving: Whenever you read one or several posts, you are giving your precious time to read my weekly cipher. All of us find our time pressed—even stressed— daily; aside from our on obligations, the world makes aggressions and micro-aggressions—gobbling up our time. This is a good time to recall that the Apostle Paul encourages us to”… be thankful in all circumstances.”

This is to say sincere appreciation for your attention.

Thank you!

© Copyright Willis H. Moore 2023

Solitude vs. loneliness. There is a difference. Both have to do with being alone, cut off from society, or isolated. Each, solitude or loneliness can be a choice. Choosing to be alone may not make you feel lonely; as in choosing to pursue something requiring deep concentration. Nor must being forced into solitude, as imprisoned, exact loneliness. Choosing to enter a spiritual retreat does not mean entering into loneliness. Both can be choices—either can develop into a deep sense of joy—it depends on the only thing you can control; your attitude.

Taylor Leamey is a  writer about wellness, mental health, sleep, and nutrition. The deeper he digs into these matters, he is convinced that loneliness can have health benefits. Neither solitude nor loneliness should steal your joy. Nor does forced solitude per se mean one’s joy intrinsically is stolen. I think of Nelson Mandela, who was imprisoned for 27 years—18 of which were in solitary confinement. Coming out of confinement, Mandela’s leadership became key to negotiating an end to apartheid in South Africa. He chose not to be lonely.

Melanie, my daughter, plans and executes spiritual retreats where participants choose to enter solitude, away from their busy, hectic lives. They seek solitude, and in such experiences find deep, inner joy. Such opportunities help many people cope with the erratic ebb and flow of their life experiences. You, dear reader—if you have read this far—may not find such a choice appealing. Many, however do find that times of chosen solitude removes them not only from the fray of hectic life, but also delivers them from the onset of loneliness.

In a few weeks, Christians the world over will begin celebrating the beginning of the Christian year in observing Advent. Many Christians in Advent, a time of prayer, fasting, and spiritual renewal— will choose periods of solitude for fasting and prayer.

Neuroscientists have discovered the “default network” of the brain—the part of the brain at work when we are not purposefully engaged in other tasks—(it is) one of the most important recent discoveries in neuroscience. Having a “quiet time” or a personal day apart are ways that help this default network function. I have a pastor-friend who was beginning to feel that her life had become out of balance (my term). She signed into a retreat center down in South Georgia for solitude. She said that almost as soon as she entered the campus, she began to feel weight lifted and renewal beginning.

Anti-Christian persecution under the Roman emperor Domitian caused St John to be exiled to the Greek Island of Patmos. In solitude of exile, he refused to let loneliness overtake him. As a result we have The Book of Revelation—the message of which is “God will win.” It is rife with encouragement, hope, and courage, making the early Christians intrepid in the face horrifying atrocities of Roman persecutors.

Although Daniel is not always considered a Prophet, he does stand tall, firm, and powerfully influential to readers of The Old Testament. When King Darius  learned that Daniel was not obeying his law, he had Daniel thrown into a pit with Lions… and sealed Daniel in with them—talk about isolation! Yet Daniel did not feel solitude or lonlieness. Instead he turned his focus to God, whom he had faithfully worshipped all his life.

Martin Luther King, Jr. was thrown into jail numerous time for civil disobedience. It was from the solitude of prison that he penned the ground-breaking “Letter from the Birmingham Jail.” It is considered by many to have laid the foundation for opening a pathway for the emerging Civil Rights Movement. Solitude vs. Loneliness. There is a difference, and that difference is choice.

©Copyright Willis H. Moore 2023

Deciduous trees are having their heyday in our yard. Un fortunately our area is in a “burn ban” due to the extensive drought—so there will be no pleasant Fall aroma of burning leaves. Nevertheless fallen and drifting leaves fling open the door for a really fun time for children’s joy—jumping and playing in leaf piles. There is no end to childhood creativity with leaf piles. Some fussy OCD folks chide children for scattering neatly piled leaves . What a joy-killer! I love to see carefully curated leaf piles where little children joyfully romp in them–and when adults jump into the fray as well. After all, it will be a year before there is another chance!

Last week my daughter jennifer and I drove into North Georgia for a quick visit to one of the several full-complement roadside farms featuring fall produce. It was a beautiful drive. The fiery flames of foliage were just beginning to ignite. Crisp morning air will soon hasten a fully brilliant, flamboyant landscape. From North Georgia to New England leaf-peeping tours are on the rise.

Leaves gradually began losing their green in early fall. I eagerly anticipate seeing my favorite colors, especiallly, Maple leaves—in a variety of hues. Acording to the Smithsonian, Most of the year, these leaves are green because of the chlorophyll they use to absorb energy from sunlight during photosynthesis. The leaves convert the energy into sugars to feed the tree.

In my yard there are over a dozen hardwood trees—hickory, oak, and Tulip Poplar. I like these hardwood trees for the shade they provide. In this region, Summer temperatures are hot; therefore working or sitting in the shade is more comfortable. Therefore, I tolerate the falling leaves. Acorns are another matter—but as the old saying goes, “The fleas come with the Dog,” so I tolerate the acorns—they give some license to the squirrel population; not much, but some.

Now, back to the luscious leaf piles; True, playing in the leaf pile typically undoes the labor of raking, but my question is this: Which is better, the neat. leaf-free lawn, or children enjoying playtime? We adults tend to measure the behavior of children in terms of adult metrics—which have little to do with children’s young worlds. Outside of meaningful safety and dramatic injury, children need to play. We learned a lot about that need during the Pandemic. Lets let the lesson linger.

I am reminded of young David tending sheep as they grazed—and wandered—in their green pastures. He had plenty of time to learn, and become skillful at playing his harp. David’s skill caught the attention of King Saul, who needed those tunes to tame his temperament. Although little David was not playing in a pile of leaves (or I don’t think he did) he was joyfully picking out tunes. Those tunes became solace for the king. Unhurried leisure, like playing in the leaves, or playing on a harp, can provide crucial time for children to grow their inner wight.

Much like fussy folk, frowning at children disturbing leaf piles, followers of Jesus got their knickers in a knot about his giving time and attention to children. These fuddy-duddies gave no quarter to children. Their thoughts about children seem to hold the quaint idea that children were not to occupy the attention of adults. Jesus pointed out that we should take lessons from children for our participation in the Kingdom of Heaven.

©Copyright Willis H. Moore 2023

Culture wars have been around for over 150 years. When there is a cultural clash between social groups, it can become a culture war. When differing social groups find themselves in a tussle over their beliefs, folkways, or mores it tends to escalate; when that tussle becomes one group trying to impose its own “culture” over another, it develops into a culture war. There has been something of a Culture War for years over Halloween for too long. It could be as amusing as arguing over whether a tomato is a fruit or a vegetable. It isn’t.

Today’s tome posits that this week finds us between two significant celebrations (less a culture war than name confusion)—Halloween and All Saints Day; actually Halloween was frst known as All Hallows E’n —the night before All Saints Day—over time as the observance became more popularized the name migrated into “Halloween.” You get the point. To be clear, All Saints Day comes on November 1. When November 1 falls on any day other day of the week, Christian churches observe All Saints Day on the nearest Sunday. It is the Christian observance of all who have died. It complicated.

But I digress. Some people object to Halloween celebration, saying it is evil. Hailey Bieber, Justin Bieber’s wife put something on Social Media about her celebrating Halloween; apparently some folks got their panties in a wad over that: says she;  “I’m not afraid of the world. I’m not afraid of any devil or demon or incantation. They are terrified of me. Halloween is now MY HOLIDAY and I am claiming all candy for the glory of God and the celebration of the Saints.

Halloween is not the first, nor the only Christian observance to be taken hostage by some secular celebration. Such festivals have oscillated with each other over time. Halloween is a case in point; All Hallows’ E’n was first, a pagan festival; Samhain, first observed by Celtic Pagans. Christians found it compatible with All Saints celebration and converted it into a Christian celebration. And. Christians also overtook (Umm converted) a pagan ritual in to Christmas celebration; Christians; 2 — Pagans; 2.

However, in an odd sort of way, at the end of October and the first of November costumes could lead one to think Good and Evil collide. It is pagentry, not a moral battlefield. It seems to me, there is opportunity for the Christian faith to be transformative.  Christian Scholar C. C. Lewis offers, asserting something as “good” naturally means that it comports with some supreme standard of right, and something “evil” does not. Thus, we judge evil according to the standard of good. This, for Lewis, proves good more powerful than evil.  

Harking back to the Culture Wars, The Halloween dustup burns valuable daylight over childish bickering—and has done so for too long. In writing to the Church at Rome, the Apostle Paul tries to help his friends cope with difficulties of living in a world threatened by evil. He guided them to conquer evil; he concluded saying, “Do not let evil defeat you; instead, conquer evil with good.“. That is transformative.

©Copyright Willis H. Moore 2023

How like diamonds sparkling in sunlight are dewdrops! The early morning sun emblazons a dazzling beauty as its rays touch each tiny drop, transforming it into a spectacle of joy. Don’t you thrill at seeing dewdrops in early mornings gleaming on grass, leaves, and meadows!? I do. It is almost like God washed the world last night and left sun rays gently buffing them dry.

When I pass a golf course in early morning it seems almost sacrilegious that trails from golfers are tracking across the dewy grass. On the other hand, it amuses me to see wild animal trails tracing through the dew-drenched grass. Yet, I know God did not create the world for my preferences only. I am learning (I think,) to be tolerant of Dewdrops. They have their purpose.

According to National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON), a continental-scale observation facility—a branch of The National Science Foundation— Dew is a more prolific producer of water than rainfall! Our planet depends on dew. Our fresh water systems in the United States —- though imperfect, would be in worse shape without the careful monitoring of an agency like NEON. Here in Metro-Atlanta, work has been underway for years cleaning up brooks, streams, and rivers. A lot of progress has been made; much more is needed.

With attention turned to rivers and streams, it is easy to overlook the immense basic value dewdrops have. As I write this, our area is in a rain deficit, termed a moderate drought—fire danger warnings are issued. Dew is essential as a secondary moisture source. Scientist François Ritter, a Ph.D., explains, Dew is not enough by itself to keep plants alive long term, but during periods of drought these secondary processes become more relevant. Dew may help some species survive drought conditions.

Aside from citing a galaxy if scientific, ecological, and agricultural data, I affirm the myriad blessings from dewdrops, including their beauty. God comes to us in many ways—one is dew. Dew is mentioned more than three dozen times in the Bible. Some are specific to everyday understanding of dew, some are metaphorical, and others are analogies.

There are two that stand out to me; Actually, this first mention of dew —and used several times–it is about food for the Israelites. They had complained about the scarcity of food there in the wilderness; the Back-to-Egypt-Committee wants to return to Egypt. God provided food–quail and manna—dew that turned into flakes suitable for bread making. Several other references to dew refer to this miracle.

Another mention of dew—that attracts me—is a different kind; It is God’s message. Warriors from Midian were laying siege on the Israelites, now hiding in fear, in caves; disaster loomed. God sent a messenger to a farmer’s son, Gideon. The first time I read this version in The Living Bible, I was alone in my camper, working on a sermon. As I read chapter 6, I literally broke out in to laughter. Gideon’ reaction to the voice of God was so human! Gideon’s “dew test” required God (yes, Gideon tested God!) to repeat it three times before he trusted God’s leading.

Gideon’s dew test may seem as small as it is absurd; yet it underscores the immense importance of little things. God is great, but often, if not mostly, God uses little things—like dewdrops—to accomplish much.

©Copyright Willis H. Moore 2023

Adulting. Yes, it is a real word—not a contrived verb. You need not take my word for it—my “Go-To” authority on words is Merriam-Webster; Adulting; the act or practice of attending to the ordinary tasks required of a responsible adult. Adulting came to mind recently as my three grand children—two in Atlanta, and one in Colorado, found themselves learning Adulting. All three—having received higher education degrees, are now working; actually having to get up, dress up, show up, and work prescribed hours. And of course earn their own pay checks. They are now adulting.

I am glad they studied hard, played hard, made tons of friends, and explored much of the world. Now the page has turned. They will still work hard, but differently; their friends are scattered—they, too, are adulting (well, most of them), and new opportunities are coming. As Yogi Berri said, “It’s tough to make predictions, especially about the future. ” But this younger generation can, and I believe will, create a better world. They’re taking their Adulting seriously.

All three of my grands are working in areas that have sharp focus on the betterment of life, the world, and their lives–they plunge in with joy, enthusiasm, and hope, undergirded with compassion and courage. I’ve often quoted the late Bill Powell, the morning show DJ on WMAZ Radio in Macon Georgia. Bill’s cheery early morning voice fueled middle Georgia’s drive-times on GA 247 as he spun out tunes of the day with buoyant commentary. He often happily said, “I love this job! If I didn’t have to do it to earn a living, I’d do it for free!” Many a middle Georgia listener got their day started on a happier note because of Bill Powell.

Taking responsibility for one’s life and work is a big task. It takes courage. Not everyone takes adulting seriously. But I am grateful for those that do: First Responders, Teachers, Scout leaders, bus drivers; you can add to the list. (I did not include Congress—although there are many members of Congress that do their best to be adults).

There is an impressive story in the Old Testament about Queen Esther. She was a Jew, an orphan, raised by her uncle Mordecai. A plot grew out of nefarious schemes within the king’s court. The Jews would be annihilated (the king did not know Queen Esther was a Jew). As the plot was about to revealed, Mordecai called on Queen Esther for signifant adulting. What a dramatic display of adulting she attained! She spoke up to the King: by doing so foiled the plot, saved her fellow Jews, and opened windows of wonder. The Book of Esther is but ten brief chapters, yet “The Adulting of Esther” is dramatic and wonderful!

Jesus encouraged people to take responsibility. On one occasion Jesus saw a man lying near the healing pool (had been there for thirty eight years, )waiting for someone to help him toward its healing waters. Jesus and his entourage passed by; the man called out to Jesus for help. Jesus paused, turned to the man and asked, “Do you want to get well?” The man replied, complaining that no one would help him. Jesus told him to get up, and get going RWV (Revised Willis Version). He did. For the first time in his life he was adulting. It is never too late to start adulting!

© Copyright Willis H. Moore 2023

Most ot us are not prepared when a sudden catastrophic event or death happens—to friends, or neighbors. Usually, out of human compassion, the immediate response we human beings ask is, “What can I do to help?” Often the answer is so evident that it’s a waste of breath. You simply jump in and give obvious help; put out the fire, drag the person to safety, stop the bleeding—do what’s immediately essential. It is human compassion, action, and wisdom at its best. Although we want to fix or do things, it is important also to “be” —be present; personal care, reassurance.

Saying or doing the right thing is not always obvious—or necessary, especially in the aftermath. A devastating blow–physically or emotionally— needs more than a Band Aid. Often your presence is the only thing a person may need. In many crisis situations, actions—even words—get in the way. I love what the irrepressible Winnie The Poo said; It’s not about what you do, it’s about who you are with; —a powerful reminder of the value of the presence of a person.

Scottish author Gail Honeymanm, wrote, Sometimes you simply needed someone kind to sit with you while you dealt with things. In the midst of an emotional upheaval, your calm, warm, caring presence speaks volumes—an invisible arm reaching out and embracing the troubled soul. It may well be enough. I’m reminded of Bill Withers’ somg, “Lean on Me:” If there is a load you have to bear / That you can’t carry / I’m right up the road / I’ll share your load / If you just call me, call me. The physical presence of another human being is powerful medicine; It lets you know you are not alone,

From the beginning God knew that the presence of another human being was needed. Although the Good News Translation of the Genesis story is an honest translation, I love the way, Green Pastures, James Weldon Johnson has God speak the need for a Presence.

Then God walked around, /And God looked around /On all that he had made. /He looked at his sun, /And he looked at his moon, /And he looked at his little stars; /He looked on his world /With all its living things, /And God said: “I’m lonely still.” /Then God sat down— /On the side of a hill where he could think; /By a deep, wide river he sat down; /With his head in his hands, /God thought and thought, /Till he thought: “I’ll make me a man!“

And, I don’t think it is too much of a stretch to say Jesus felt a strong need for human presence to accompany his ministry; he chose twelve men,—disciples, we call them—to be present with him during the good, the bad, and the ugly of his brief ministry. A further indication of Jesus’ need for human presence is the often mentioned village of Bethany; it was his “home-away-from-home”—the secure place where he could experience safe—even cozy human friendship with dear friends’ Lazarus, Mary, and the family. Jesus’ final words to his disciples were the assurance that a Holy Presence would be with them.

© Copyright Willis H. Moore 2023

In the 1700’s Puritans were fond of formal, stern worship services. In many churches, in the sanctuary, men and women sat on opposite sides from each other. Silence was demanded—to the extent that Puritans appointed a “Tithing Man,” who carried a “Tithing Rod” during worship. Its purpose was to awaken anyone caught dozing.The Tithing Rod was long and usually had a feather dangling from the end—I once saw a facsimile of a Tithing Rod with a ceramic doorknob dangling from the tip. If the Tithing Man caught a man sleeping in church (apparently women didn’t sleep in church), he took his Tithing Rod and tapped the offender on the head—sometimes not so lightly. (But that ceramic doorknob could really awaken someone!)

Church etiquette evolved greatly over the years. Until WW II Sunday dressy attire had been the norm. Quiet reigned in the sanctuary. “Sunday Clothes”—for country folks that meant the best you have. Church was the primary social opportunity for most folks. Therefore, social gatherings developed around church; ”Dinner on the Grounds,” Homecomings, and Revival meetings (usually lasting a week or more), funerals and weddings served as primary social opportunities.

The Sunday-dress-up-for-church was from the cultural norm of “presenting your best for God.” A secondary motivation of social palavering; folks needed to get together to chat, visit, share news and enjoy fellowship with others. Concern grew that dressing up for church raised a barrier to people who did not have “Sunday-best” clothes, so more casual dress crept in. In the past few decades attire for attending church has changed dramatically.

The “Tithing Rod” evaporated from worship services centuries ago. So have many other standards—including pot-belly stoves, spittoons, and gender fences down the center aisle of the sanctuary. When someone whines “Church isn’t the same anymore!” I tend to think how glad it isn’t. I am glad we have become more reasonable about theologically trivial matters..

Ancient prophets, as well as Jesus, decried folks making worship of God a mere showcase. The prophet Amos went so far as to say God “hates” the religious festivals and solemn assemblies. When Jesus was challenged by religious leaders for abusing the Sabbath.He pointed out that human beings are more important than customs for customs’ sake. The Apostle Paul went to some length calling Christians to give up pretense and to present ourselves to God just as we are.

Maybe we don’t need someone with a Tithing Rod to rap us on the head to wake us up—not literally. But we do, I’m convinced, need at least inner promptings to remind us the God is God—that God loves us just as we are; our fellow human beings need that assurance too. Scriptures as well as the Church fathers and mothers, often gave reminders that God looks at our heart not our costumery—outer appearance. Jesus put priorities clearly; Put God First!

©Copyright Willis H. Moore 2023