Artificial flowers look good but they're not growing. A lot of ministries are like that.

You probably know Ted Giannoulas even if you've never heard his name. He has been the San Diego Chicken for 30 years. But Ted is getting older. At age 50, being the Chicken has been his life and his whole identity. His face is never photographed unless he is in costume. No one knows the real Ted. He has no family. At first, he loved his alter ego. "I discovered an untapped personality in that suit," he said. "It was like, now I have freedom. Now I'm no longer Ted." But there is a price to pay. Dave Raymond, who for years wore the costume of the Philly Phanatic, said, "[Giannoulas] was the first and the funniest, and I have nothing but respect for him. But if you're not careful, you can lose yourself in that suit." Ted himself says, "I have plenty of Chicken stories. I'm afraid I don't have any Ted stories." Many people live life being someone God didn't create them to be. They lose themselves in other things instead of finding their identity in Christ. Citation: "Chicken's Salad Days Over", Chicago Tribune, (8-26-02), (Sports Section); submitted by Lee Eclov, Vernon Hills, Illinois