As they say in Hawaii...
Mele Kalikimaka me ka Hau'oli Makahiki Hou - Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
A little holiday trivia:
Did you know Santa comes to town on a surfboard in Hawaii, wearing a tank-top and swim trunks? This is Hawaiian tradition, since they have no chimneys and the weather doesn't require a fur-lined suit.
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
Sunday, December 14, 2008
How Great Thou Art!
I love this hymn!
David and I sang this song for our church group last week Sunday. I sang melody, he accompanied on guitar and sang the harmonies. We followed up with another song, with audience participation on the chorus, Give Me Oil For My Lamp.
Well, I mention this because just moments ago, in the distance, the church bell chimes were playing How Great Thou Art. How wonderful to hear the melody and to be reminded of such edifying lyrics.
O Lord my God, When I in awesome wonder,
Consider all the worlds Thy Hands have made;
I see the stars, I hear the rolling thunder,
Thy power throughout the universe displayed.
Chorus:
Then sings my soul, My Saviour God, to Thee,
How great Thou art, How great Thou art.
Then sings my soul, My Saviour God, to Thee,
How great Thou art, How great Thou art!
And when I think, that God, His Son not sparing;
Sent Him to die, I scarce can take it in;
That on the Cross, my burden gladly bearing,
He bled and died to take away my sin.
When Christ shall come, with shout of acclamation,
And take me home, what joy shall fill my heart.
Then I shall bow, in humble adoration,
And then proclaim: "My God, how great Thou art!"
David and I sang this song for our church group last week Sunday. I sang melody, he accompanied on guitar and sang the harmonies. We followed up with another song, with audience participation on the chorus, Give Me Oil For My Lamp.
Well, I mention this because just moments ago, in the distance, the church bell chimes were playing How Great Thou Art. How wonderful to hear the melody and to be reminded of such edifying lyrics.
O Lord my God, When I in awesome wonder,
Consider all the worlds Thy Hands have made;
I see the stars, I hear the rolling thunder,
Thy power throughout the universe displayed.
Chorus:
Then sings my soul, My Saviour God, to Thee,
How great Thou art, How great Thou art.
Then sings my soul, My Saviour God, to Thee,
How great Thou art, How great Thou art!
And when I think, that God, His Son not sparing;
Sent Him to die, I scarce can take it in;
That on the Cross, my burden gladly bearing,
He bled and died to take away my sin.
When Christ shall come, with shout of acclamation,
And take me home, what joy shall fill my heart.
Then I shall bow, in humble adoration,
And then proclaim: "My God, how great Thou art!"
Saturday, December 13, 2008
Career Match - What's Your Personality Style?
Take the Color Match/Color Q Personality Style Self-Assessment by clicking on the following link:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/reader/0814473644/ref=sib_dp_ptu#reader-link
This will help you determine your primary style. If you REALLY want to make the most of the test, borrow the book from the library so you can determine your secondary style, as well as whether your introverted or extroverted.
My test results (having completed the entire test with the book) are:
Primary: Green
Secondary: Red
Introvert
The book Career Match: Connecting Who You Are with What You'll Love to Do helps you determine occupations and ideal work scenarios that line up with your style. It also helps you identify strengths and challenges, leadership and teamwork styles, and interviewing tips. Great book!
http://www.amazon.com/gp/reader/0814473644/ref=sib_dp_ptu#reader-link
This will help you determine your primary style. If you REALLY want to make the most of the test, borrow the book from the library so you can determine your secondary style, as well as whether your introverted or extroverted.
My test results (having completed the entire test with the book) are:
Primary: Green
Secondary: Red
Introvert
The book Career Match: Connecting Who You Are with What You'll Love to Do helps you determine occupations and ideal work scenarios that line up with your style. It also helps you identify strengths and challenges, leadership and teamwork styles, and interviewing tips. Great book!
Hi Gang!
I know it's been quite a while. Yes, I'm still alive on this planet. Many of you may have wondered if I had taken my leave. Only a temporary haitus.
I wanted to let you all know that I am leaving the workforce of corporate America. This is something I have wanted to do for some time now, but always had a compelling reason to stay. Walter's business is picking up speed and he is at a point where he could use extra help on the administrative end, as well as the marketing strategies. David is not interested in coming aboard, and I am the next most affordable person Walter can hire at this juncture. January 2nd will be my last day with Castle.
At first I felt guilty about wanting to leave the workforce because of the earnings and health benefits I was able to supply for my family; but once the decision was made, everything else started coming together. Walter's business started expanding immediately, we were able to find benefits, and most importantly (to me at least) I started to embrace this idea as a gift of God. What time could possibly be more optimum for me to start focusing efforts on my writing while still able to contribute to our business? Why not now? Now my excitement is building!
Granted, there will be time of re-focus with the transition itself; and there will be the need for catching up on things that neglectfully fell by the wayside in having to prioritize my time. (I barely had time to even move into this house when we first got here, and certainly not time to go through things in storage, to organize and weed out "stuff".) I will need to set up workable systems with my time and physical surroundings, and then begin the actual daily work for our company. Once I get my general schedules in place, I will begin to add daily writing and marketing to a fledgling writing career.
For now though, I am wrapping up work at Castle, including putting on a holiday luncheon & company wide food drive, finalizing some new hires, completeing affirmative action plan reports (our biggest reporting endeavor each year as government contractors), holding down the fort while my boss goes on vacation, and finally, training the new guy who is to replace me as the human resources administrator. All before I leave!
Meanwhile, Walter's birthday is today, David's was two weeks ago, and the holidays are upon us. My goal each year is to get through the birthdays before I start with the holiday rush.
So, while I plan to take up my writing with greater frequency, do not hold it against me if I put it off posting to my blog just a little bit longer. Life is still busy and I am in transition!
God bless you, one and all!!!
I wanted to let you all know that I am leaving the workforce of corporate America. This is something I have wanted to do for some time now, but always had a compelling reason to stay. Walter's business is picking up speed and he is at a point where he could use extra help on the administrative end, as well as the marketing strategies. David is not interested in coming aboard, and I am the next most affordable person Walter can hire at this juncture. January 2nd will be my last day with Castle.
At first I felt guilty about wanting to leave the workforce because of the earnings and health benefits I was able to supply for my family; but once the decision was made, everything else started coming together. Walter's business started expanding immediately, we were able to find benefits, and most importantly (to me at least) I started to embrace this idea as a gift of God. What time could possibly be more optimum for me to start focusing efforts on my writing while still able to contribute to our business? Why not now? Now my excitement is building!
Granted, there will be time of re-focus with the transition itself; and there will be the need for catching up on things that neglectfully fell by the wayside in having to prioritize my time. (I barely had time to even move into this house when we first got here, and certainly not time to go through things in storage, to organize and weed out "stuff".) I will need to set up workable systems with my time and physical surroundings, and then begin the actual daily work for our company. Once I get my general schedules in place, I will begin to add daily writing and marketing to a fledgling writing career.
For now though, I am wrapping up work at Castle, including putting on a holiday luncheon & company wide food drive, finalizing some new hires, completeing affirmative action plan reports (our biggest reporting endeavor each year as government contractors), holding down the fort while my boss goes on vacation, and finally, training the new guy who is to replace me as the human resources administrator. All before I leave!
Meanwhile, Walter's birthday is today, David's was two weeks ago, and the holidays are upon us. My goal each year is to get through the birthdays before I start with the holiday rush.
So, while I plan to take up my writing with greater frequency, do not hold it against me if I put it off posting to my blog just a little bit longer. Life is still busy and I am in transition!
God bless you, one and all!!!
Thursday, September 25, 2008
A Great Article - Thanks Mom, for Sending This!
Los Angeles times opinion editorial
SACRAMENTO, September 22 -- The Los Angeles Times has published an Opinion Editorial which shows arguments against same-sex marriage due to its detrimental effect on our children. What is noteworthy is the source: the author of the Op-Ed piece is a Liberal Democrat, which underscores the broad support for Proposition 8 in order to protect marriage for society, our institutions, and for children in California. Read the full text here:
Protecting Marriage to Protect Children Marriage as a human institution is constantly evolving. But in all societies, marriage shapes the rights and obligations of parenthood.
Los Angeles TimesBy David Blankenhorn September 19, 2008
I'm a liberal Democrat. And I do not favor same-sex marriage. Do those positions sound contradictory? To me, they fit together.
Many seem to believe that marriage is simply a private love relationship between two people. They accept this view, in part, because Americans have increasingly emphasized and come to value the intimate, emotional side of marriage, and in part because almost all opinion leaders today, from journalists to judges, strongly embrace this position. That's certainly the idea that underpinned the California Supreme Court's legalization of same-sex marriage.
But I spent a year studying the history and anthropology of marriage, and I've come to a different conclusion.
Marriage as a human institution is constantly evolving, and many of its features vary across groups and cultures. But there is one constant. In all societies, marriage shapes the rights and obligations of parenthood. Among us humans, the scholars report, marriage is not primarily a license to have sex. Nor is it primarily a license to receive benefits or social recognition. It is primarily a license to have children.
In this sense, marriage is a gift that society bestows on its next generation. Marriage (and only marriage) unites the three core dimensions of parenthood -- biological, social and legal -- into one pro-child form: the married couple. Marriage says to a child: The man and the woman whose sexual union made you will also be there to love and raise you. Marriage says to society as a whole: For every child born, there is a recognized mother and a father, accountable to the child and to each other.
Marriage is society's most pro-child institution. In 2002 -- just moments before it became highly unfashionable to say so -- a team of researchers from Child Trends, a nonpartisan research center, reported that "family structure clearly matters for children, and the family structure that helps children the most is a family headed by two biological parents in a low- conflict marriage."
All our scholarly instruments seem to agree: For healthy development, what a child needs more than anything else is the mother and father who together made the child, who love the child and love each other.
For these reasons, children have the right, insofar as society can make it possible, to know and to be cared for by the two parents who brought them into this world. The foundational human rights document in the world today regarding children, the 1989 U.N. Convention on the Rights of the Child, specifically guarantees children this right. The last time I checked, liberals like me were supposed to be in favor of internationally recognized human rights, particularly concerning children, who are typically society's most voiceless and vulnerable group. Or have I now said something I shouldn't?
Every child being raised by gay or lesbian couples will be denied his birthright to both parents who made him. Every single one. Moreover, losing that right will not be a consequence of something that at least most of us view as tragic, such as a marriage that didn't last, or an unexpected pregnancy where the father-to- be has no intention of sticking around. On the contrary, in the case of same-sex marriage and the children of those unions, it will be explained to everyone, including the children that something wonderful has happened!
For me, what we are encouraged or permitted to say, or not say, to one another about what our society owes its children is crucially important in the debate over initiatives like California's Proposition 8, which would reinstate marriage's customary man-woman form. Do you think that every child deserves his mother and father, with adoption available for those children whose natural parents cannot care for them? Do you suspect that fathers and mothers are different from one another? Do you imagine that biological ties matter to children? How many parents per child are best? Do you think that "two" is a better answer than one, three, four or whatever? If you do, be careful. In making the case for same-sex marriage, more than a few grown-ups will be quite willing to question your integrity and goodwill. Children, of course, are rarely consulted.
The liberal philosopher Isaiah Berlin famously argued that, in many cases, the real conflict we face is not good versus bad but good versus good. Reducing homophobia is good. Protecting the birthright of the child is good. How should we reason together as a society when these two good things conflict?
Here is my reasoning. I reject homophobia and believe in the equal dignity of gay and lesbian love. Because I also believe with all my heart in the right of the child to the mother and father who made her, I believe that we as a society should seek to maintain and to strengthen the only human institution -- marriage -- that is specifically intended to safeguard that right and make it real for our children.
Legalized same-sex marriage almost certainly benefits those same-sex couples who choose to marry, as well as the children being raised in those homes. But changing the meaning of marriage to accommodate homosexual orientation further and perhaps definitively undermines for all of us the very thing -- the gift, the birthright -- that is marriage's most distinctive contribution to human society. That's a change that, in the final analysis, I cannot support.
David Blankenhorn is president of the New York- based Institute for American Values and the author of "The Future of Marriage."
SACRAMENTO, September 22 -- The Los Angeles Times has published an Opinion Editorial which shows arguments against same-sex marriage due to its detrimental effect on our children. What is noteworthy is the source: the author of the Op-Ed piece is a Liberal Democrat, which underscores the broad support for Proposition 8 in order to protect marriage for society, our institutions, and for children in California. Read the full text here:
Protecting Marriage to Protect Children Marriage as a human institution is constantly evolving. But in all societies, marriage shapes the rights and obligations of parenthood.
Los Angeles TimesBy David Blankenhorn September 19, 2008
I'm a liberal Democrat. And I do not favor same-sex marriage. Do those positions sound contradictory? To me, they fit together.
Many seem to believe that marriage is simply a private love relationship between two people. They accept this view, in part, because Americans have increasingly emphasized and come to value the intimate, emotional side of marriage, and in part because almost all opinion leaders today, from journalists to judges, strongly embrace this position. That's certainly the idea that underpinned the California Supreme Court's legalization of same-sex marriage.
But I spent a year studying the history and anthropology of marriage, and I've come to a different conclusion.
Marriage as a human institution is constantly evolving, and many of its features vary across groups and cultures. But there is one constant. In all societies, marriage shapes the rights and obligations of parenthood. Among us humans, the scholars report, marriage is not primarily a license to have sex. Nor is it primarily a license to receive benefits or social recognition. It is primarily a license to have children.
In this sense, marriage is a gift that society bestows on its next generation. Marriage (and only marriage) unites the three core dimensions of parenthood -- biological, social and legal -- into one pro-child form: the married couple. Marriage says to a child: The man and the woman whose sexual union made you will also be there to love and raise you. Marriage says to society as a whole: For every child born, there is a recognized mother and a father, accountable to the child and to each other.
Marriage is society's most pro-child institution. In 2002 -- just moments before it became highly unfashionable to say so -- a team of researchers from Child Trends, a nonpartisan research center, reported that "family structure clearly matters for children, and the family structure that helps children the most is a family headed by two biological parents in a low- conflict marriage."
All our scholarly instruments seem to agree: For healthy development, what a child needs more than anything else is the mother and father who together made the child, who love the child and love each other.
For these reasons, children have the right, insofar as society can make it possible, to know and to be cared for by the two parents who brought them into this world. The foundational human rights document in the world today regarding children, the 1989 U.N. Convention on the Rights of the Child, specifically guarantees children this right. The last time I checked, liberals like me were supposed to be in favor of internationally recognized human rights, particularly concerning children, who are typically society's most voiceless and vulnerable group. Or have I now said something I shouldn't?
Every child being raised by gay or lesbian couples will be denied his birthright to both parents who made him. Every single one. Moreover, losing that right will not be a consequence of something that at least most of us view as tragic, such as a marriage that didn't last, or an unexpected pregnancy where the father-to- be has no intention of sticking around. On the contrary, in the case of same-sex marriage and the children of those unions, it will be explained to everyone, including the children that something wonderful has happened!
For me, what we are encouraged or permitted to say, or not say, to one another about what our society owes its children is crucially important in the debate over initiatives like California's Proposition 8, which would reinstate marriage's customary man-woman form. Do you think that every child deserves his mother and father, with adoption available for those children whose natural parents cannot care for them? Do you suspect that fathers and mothers are different from one another? Do you imagine that biological ties matter to children? How many parents per child are best? Do you think that "two" is a better answer than one, three, four or whatever? If you do, be careful. In making the case for same-sex marriage, more than a few grown-ups will be quite willing to question your integrity and goodwill. Children, of course, are rarely consulted.
The liberal philosopher Isaiah Berlin famously argued that, in many cases, the real conflict we face is not good versus bad but good versus good. Reducing homophobia is good. Protecting the birthright of the child is good. How should we reason together as a society when these two good things conflict?
Here is my reasoning. I reject homophobia and believe in the equal dignity of gay and lesbian love. Because I also believe with all my heart in the right of the child to the mother and father who made her, I believe that we as a society should seek to maintain and to strengthen the only human institution -- marriage -- that is specifically intended to safeguard that right and make it real for our children.
Legalized same-sex marriage almost certainly benefits those same-sex couples who choose to marry, as well as the children being raised in those homes. But changing the meaning of marriage to accommodate homosexual orientation further and perhaps definitively undermines for all of us the very thing -- the gift, the birthright -- that is marriage's most distinctive contribution to human society. That's a change that, in the final analysis, I cannot support.
David Blankenhorn is president of the New York- based Institute for American Values and the author of "The Future of Marriage."
Saturday, August 23, 2008
Living in the Liberty of God's Grace
I have been working the book of Galatians of late. What a tremendous epistle of great truth in order to live and abound in liberty. I read the book first in the King James Version, but it seemed rote, having read and listened to that version many, many times. I then took a look at the Amplified Version. Good. But this time, I still needed something more. Then I explored the Message Bible. WOW!!! I really like this version for the heart and impact it resonates. I felt like I was sitting down, one on one with the Apostle Paul. Granted, I am not endorsing any particular version; all have their flaws and strengths and often the KJV has a lot of resources that make it a great study version, besides the great attribute of the translators adding italized words when they added words not in the Stephens Greek Text from which it was translated.
For the brevity of time I will give a capsulized rundown of the theme and the heart of this epistle. Paul is encouraging the Galatians to embrace the liberty that is to be found in giving up your own personal ego and embracing instead, who you truly are in the gift of holy spirit, the inner man, also referred to as "Christ in you". This is where rest resides...in embracing what has already been done, and not in the works to enter in by our own futile efforts. In ourselves there is defeat; in Him we are complete.
Too often I observe people running around like crazy, striving to do things to be approved by others, or to feel acceptible to God. We are already acceptible, the work was already done in the new birth when perfection of what God did in Christ was imparted to us...not by works we did, but by His perfect work. The perfection is not in our flesh: perfecting our homes, our bodies, our hair and wardrobe, the car we drive, the job we have, our education. Notice here how the focus is upon ourselves. It's not about how perfect we are in and of ourselves. We are limited in what we can do and how perfect we can be via the body and soul categories of life. These are temporal and they perish day by day. But the inner man! The perfection of the spirit within man upon getting born again! That's incorruptible, it's perfect, it's complete. We have this perfection within simply because we believed on Christ, that he is Lord because God the Father gave him glory and dominion over all things. We believe that he died, but didn't remain in the grave, but that God raised him by His great power and that he lives today and forever more.
So, what do we do with this new found liberty? Good question, I'm glad you asked.
We serve in love. The only law we are now to be under is Christ's Law which is the law of love: Love God all out! With all your heart, soul, mind, and strength. And after that (not before), love your neighbor (others...not just those down the street) as you would love yourself. That's it! That's all there is to do. If people would live this way, there would be no need for all the other laws that are set up by governments, places of employment, communities, house rule, tradition, religion, etc...
The sad thing about liberty is when people claim it but do not exercise it unto service out of love for others but rather abuse it in selfish gain for themselves. This is when the works of the flesh prevail in a persons life and they bring forth putrid fruit. But when we do things God's way, the fruit is beautiful and wholesome. This liberty at it's best. Eyes focused upon the needs of others (though not at one's total expense, for we love others AS WE LOVE OURSELVES). So the same care we would give ourselves it what we extend to others, the same courtesies, etc. If we were doing this, then we wouldn't be violating God's commandments; instead they would be axiomatic!
The thing is, we look for opportunities to do good to others, expecially among those closest to us in the community of fellow believing people. Clearly, we extend grace to all, but the priority of our time, resources and energies should go to those who have believed on Christ, as they are brethren. The first place to practice this grace, this liberty is among those closest to us, our immediate families. And remember, grace is unmerited, undeserved favor. We don't encourage, edify, comfort, exhort...in other words, extend grace...because they deserve it, more precisely, it's because they DON'T deserve it. People need love, prayers, and grace when they deserve it least. When did we deserve what God gave us?
If I have stirred up your heart even a little by this little blog passage, I encourage you to go read the church epistles of the Apostle Paul for yourselves. Go check out various versions of the Bible and see the threads of liberty that is woven throughout these letters that Paul wrote to the saints, the born again believers he counted as brethren, not kin by the flesh, but united by the spirit that dwells within. There is SO MUCH GRACE available in this day and time! This whole time period since the day of Pentocost has been with a focus of God extending goodness and grace to those who simply believe, no works required. (Makes me think of the boxed packages...there's no assembly require and batteries are included!)
Selah! (Think on, ponder these things, awhile.)
Here's a great link to Bible Gateway that has various versions...also a great scriptural study aid on many other levels. Play around with it and see what God reveals of His heart to you; only He can give you understanding of His heart and will: http://www.biblegateway.com/ (you may want to save this site to favorites for frequent reading).
God bless you and may you find rest in the liberating grace that sets you free, only truly found in God and in the knowledge of His son Jesus Christ! He led captivity captive. It's already done...enter in, rest awhile, get rejuivanted. Once you're recharged, reach out in love to help others get release from what's captivating them. This is how liberty grows in our lives, when we help others discover their liberty too. We are then working the work of Christ who, according to Luke 4:18 did this:
The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised.
(Please pardon any grammatical errors, this was done quickly and I have not made any edits yet.)
For the brevity of time I will give a capsulized rundown of the theme and the heart of this epistle. Paul is encouraging the Galatians to embrace the liberty that is to be found in giving up your own personal ego and embracing instead, who you truly are in the gift of holy spirit, the inner man, also referred to as "Christ in you". This is where rest resides...in embracing what has already been done, and not in the works to enter in by our own futile efforts. In ourselves there is defeat; in Him we are complete.
Too often I observe people running around like crazy, striving to do things to be approved by others, or to feel acceptible to God. We are already acceptible, the work was already done in the new birth when perfection of what God did in Christ was imparted to us...not by works we did, but by His perfect work. The perfection is not in our flesh: perfecting our homes, our bodies, our hair and wardrobe, the car we drive, the job we have, our education. Notice here how the focus is upon ourselves. It's not about how perfect we are in and of ourselves. We are limited in what we can do and how perfect we can be via the body and soul categories of life. These are temporal and they perish day by day. But the inner man! The perfection of the spirit within man upon getting born again! That's incorruptible, it's perfect, it's complete. We have this perfection within simply because we believed on Christ, that he is Lord because God the Father gave him glory and dominion over all things. We believe that he died, but didn't remain in the grave, but that God raised him by His great power and that he lives today and forever more.
So, what do we do with this new found liberty? Good question, I'm glad you asked.
We serve in love. The only law we are now to be under is Christ's Law which is the law of love: Love God all out! With all your heart, soul, mind, and strength. And after that (not before), love your neighbor (others...not just those down the street) as you would love yourself. That's it! That's all there is to do. If people would live this way, there would be no need for all the other laws that are set up by governments, places of employment, communities, house rule, tradition, religion, etc...
The sad thing about liberty is when people claim it but do not exercise it unto service out of love for others but rather abuse it in selfish gain for themselves. This is when the works of the flesh prevail in a persons life and they bring forth putrid fruit. But when we do things God's way, the fruit is beautiful and wholesome. This liberty at it's best. Eyes focused upon the needs of others (though not at one's total expense, for we love others AS WE LOVE OURSELVES). So the same care we would give ourselves it what we extend to others, the same courtesies, etc. If we were doing this, then we wouldn't be violating God's commandments; instead they would be axiomatic!
The thing is, we look for opportunities to do good to others, expecially among those closest to us in the community of fellow believing people. Clearly, we extend grace to all, but the priority of our time, resources and energies should go to those who have believed on Christ, as they are brethren. The first place to practice this grace, this liberty is among those closest to us, our immediate families. And remember, grace is unmerited, undeserved favor. We don't encourage, edify, comfort, exhort...in other words, extend grace...because they deserve it, more precisely, it's because they DON'T deserve it. People need love, prayers, and grace when they deserve it least. When did we deserve what God gave us?
If I have stirred up your heart even a little by this little blog passage, I encourage you to go read the church epistles of the Apostle Paul for yourselves. Go check out various versions of the Bible and see the threads of liberty that is woven throughout these letters that Paul wrote to the saints, the born again believers he counted as brethren, not kin by the flesh, but united by the spirit that dwells within. There is SO MUCH GRACE available in this day and time! This whole time period since the day of Pentocost has been with a focus of God extending goodness and grace to those who simply believe, no works required. (Makes me think of the boxed packages...there's no assembly require and batteries are included!)
Selah! (Think on, ponder these things, awhile.)
Here's a great link to Bible Gateway that has various versions...also a great scriptural study aid on many other levels. Play around with it and see what God reveals of His heart to you; only He can give you understanding of His heart and will: http://www.biblegateway.com/ (you may want to save this site to favorites for frequent reading).
God bless you and may you find rest in the liberating grace that sets you free, only truly found in God and in the knowledge of His son Jesus Christ! He led captivity captive. It's already done...enter in, rest awhile, get rejuivanted. Once you're recharged, reach out in love to help others get release from what's captivating them. This is how liberty grows in our lives, when we help others discover their liberty too. We are then working the work of Christ who, according to Luke 4:18 did this:
The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised.
(Please pardon any grammatical errors, this was done quickly and I have not made any edits yet.)
Thursday, August 7, 2008
Visual DNA Personality Test by Youniverse
My results of the Youniverse personality test (a photo selection test):
Mood: Dreamer
Fun: Escape Artist
Habits: Back to Basics
Social: Thoughtful
http://youniverse.com/personality/feedback/982599c29967c226a0269b41cb27749b (not sure if the link will work to show my results, but hey, it's worth a try.
Take the test too. It's fun and easy!
Go to Http://DNA.imagini.net/friends then post your results here...
Mood: Dreamer
Fun: Escape Artist
Habits: Back to Basics
Social: Thoughtful
http://youniverse.com/personality/feedback/982599c29967c226a0269b41cb27749b (not sure if the link will work to show my results, but hey, it's worth a try.
Take the test too. It's fun and easy!
Go to Http://DNA.imagini.net/friends then post your results here...
Saturday, July 19, 2008
Friday, July 18, 2008
A Few Quotes From Booker T. Washington...
This first quote was what set me on my quest to read other profound thoughts of Booker T. Washington. What a man!
I have learned that success is to be measured not so much by the position that one has reached in life as by the obstacles which he has had to overcome while trying to succeed.
I will permit no man to narrow and degrade my soul by making me hate him.
No race can prosper till it learns there is as much dignity in tilling a field as in writing a poem.
There are two ways of exerting one's strength: one is pushing down, the other is pulling up.
Associate yourself with people of good quality, for it is better to be alone than in bad company.
Excellence is to do a common thing in an uncommon way.
Few things can help an individual more than to place responsibility on him, and to let him know that you trust him.
I have learned that success is to be measured not so much by the position that one has reached in life as by the obstacles which he has had to overcome while trying to succeed.
I will permit no man to narrow and degrade my soul by making me hate him.
No race can prosper till it learns there is as much dignity in tilling a field as in writing a poem.
There are two ways of exerting one's strength: one is pushing down, the other is pulling up.
Associate yourself with people of good quality, for it is better to be alone than in bad company.
Excellence is to do a common thing in an uncommon way.
Few things can help an individual more than to place responsibility on him, and to let him know that you trust him.
Touching Base
Life has been very busy since returning from vacation between work, family and ministry. David's graduation was great. I was able to record the ceremony on video and let out a big yell for him, "David, YOU ROCK!" He later told me he didn't hear it as he was going across the stage. Oh well, my heart was into it, can't deny that!
I've been doing a lot of recruiting and interviewing at work (and have had several candidates stand me up to boot). Today we finally got two candidates to accept job offers I extended. (May I just say, this was the first time we posted a position to Craig's List and the pool of candidates was huge and impressive. Not bad for $25 per ad! A typical ad in the newspaper runs anywhere from $300+ to $1300 and doesn't pull even half as many candidates!) Now it's time for all the pre-screening to ensure they are who they say they are and then sending out the sad news for the candidates that were not selected. Granted, the best candidates that I liked are the ones that actually got hired this time, so that's a big plus.
I also did some reporting of EEO-1 data for a federal contractor bid this week, some employment verification requests, a little workman's comp injury reporting, and letters on behalf of employee requests. For the EE0-1 reporting, I simply collect the personnel data and put together the report, the rest of the bid is someone else's job to do. On top of that, we will soon be gearing up to do Vet-100 reporting. Also, the week before, we changed our Dental plan and expanded our Medical Plans, so there have been countless inquiries from employees this past week and a half.
While Human Resources Administrator work is what I presently do, it's not my passion. Writing, research, and organizing are my true callings. Lately, I have been corresponding with a distant cousin on the Adams' line and am finding that I really enjoy genealogy. Also, since returning from Cape Cod, I've been reading Of Plymouth Plantation by William Bradford. It's really awesome, though a concentrated and slow read that requires focus. So, I've been immersed in historical research on both sides of the family. In fact, I just submitted preliminary membership for consideration to join the New York Society of Mayflower Descendants. We have already been documented for the first six generations up to Gideon Young's birth and this is all held at the main HQ. Now, to document these last few, it should be very exciting. As I look at the family history and read the historical accounts that Bradford recorded, it's exciting to see that we may actually be related to several Mayflower descendants.
I think becoming a certified genealogist might be a great way to incorporate the research, organzing and writing skills into one. I have only started considering this, and would need to research this more. I like the idea of doing historical novels that are true accounts, or even historical fiction. But for now, that seems overwhelming to be a first undertaking. I may instead try my hand at a few articles and see if I can get something written and published on a smaller scale. I have a couple of fun, albeit practical ideas. We'll see. The hard part is finding time to sit down, research, brainstorm, ponder and actually write. All too often, after work, I just want to sit down and veg, giving my brain a rest. Or when I do research, it's my personal reading projects, or when I'm putting a teaching together for the fellowship. Granted, some of these have been really good, and I have a mind to put them down here, it's just a matter of reaching beyond good intentions, and actually typing them out.
For the next four weeks my my home will be converted to a classroom setting where we will present our foundational class. I am very excited about how much this class does to help people actually learn how to read and understand the scriptures. It's life changing for these folks who make this commitment. So while I will not have a living room for nearly a month, it's a small price to pay for what tranformations God works in the hearts of people who seek Him with this kind of focused commitment. This may put some hindrances on how much I keep up on my blog, but bear with me...you never know when I might get on this thing and type a word or two.
I've been doing a lot of recruiting and interviewing at work (and have had several candidates stand me up to boot). Today we finally got two candidates to accept job offers I extended. (May I just say, this was the first time we posted a position to Craig's List and the pool of candidates was huge and impressive. Not bad for $25 per ad! A typical ad in the newspaper runs anywhere from $300+ to $1300 and doesn't pull even half as many candidates!) Now it's time for all the pre-screening to ensure they are who they say they are and then sending out the sad news for the candidates that were not selected. Granted, the best candidates that I liked are the ones that actually got hired this time, so that's a big plus.
I also did some reporting of EEO-1 data for a federal contractor bid this week, some employment verification requests, a little workman's comp injury reporting, and letters on behalf of employee requests. For the EE0-1 reporting, I simply collect the personnel data and put together the report, the rest of the bid is someone else's job to do. On top of that, we will soon be gearing up to do Vet-100 reporting. Also, the week before, we changed our Dental plan and expanded our Medical Plans, so there have been countless inquiries from employees this past week and a half.
While Human Resources Administrator work is what I presently do, it's not my passion. Writing, research, and organizing are my true callings. Lately, I have been corresponding with a distant cousin on the Adams' line and am finding that I really enjoy genealogy. Also, since returning from Cape Cod, I've been reading Of Plymouth Plantation by William Bradford. It's really awesome, though a concentrated and slow read that requires focus. So, I've been immersed in historical research on both sides of the family. In fact, I just submitted preliminary membership for consideration to join the New York Society of Mayflower Descendants. We have already been documented for the first six generations up to Gideon Young's birth and this is all held at the main HQ. Now, to document these last few, it should be very exciting. As I look at the family history and read the historical accounts that Bradford recorded, it's exciting to see that we may actually be related to several Mayflower descendants.
I think becoming a certified genealogist might be a great way to incorporate the research, organzing and writing skills into one. I have only started considering this, and would need to research this more. I like the idea of doing historical novels that are true accounts, or even historical fiction. But for now, that seems overwhelming to be a first undertaking. I may instead try my hand at a few articles and see if I can get something written and published on a smaller scale. I have a couple of fun, albeit practical ideas. We'll see. The hard part is finding time to sit down, research, brainstorm, ponder and actually write. All too often, after work, I just want to sit down and veg, giving my brain a rest. Or when I do research, it's my personal reading projects, or when I'm putting a teaching together for the fellowship. Granted, some of these have been really good, and I have a mind to put them down here, it's just a matter of reaching beyond good intentions, and actually typing them out.
For the next four weeks my my home will be converted to a classroom setting where we will present our foundational class. I am very excited about how much this class does to help people actually learn how to read and understand the scriptures. It's life changing for these folks who make this commitment. So while I will not have a living room for nearly a month, it's a small price to pay for what tranformations God works in the hearts of people who seek Him with this kind of focused commitment. This may put some hindrances on how much I keep up on my blog, but bear with me...you never know when I might get on this thing and type a word or two.
Saturday, June 21, 2008
Cape Cod
Vacation was spent the first week of June in Brewster, MA (at Cape Cod). This was our first trip to The Cape (as it is affectionately called in these parts). This was among one of my favorite vacations, right up there with Kauai, Hawaii.
We stayed at a home rental known as The Barn. It is a pole barn (no nails used in the construction) that was built into a home (this being the original conception). It had a lovely loft, but we primarily stayed on the main level.
At this juncture, it has been an entire week since returning, so as I recollect my time there, I will not necessarily be keeping days and events in sequence, though I will try my best to do so.
We cruised the small, rural town of Brewster with its quaint cape cod homes, many of them with victorian details. Some of these are centuries old, and several are former sea captain homes. There were windmills and grist mills as well as marshes and beaches all along the cape. Brewster is a well preserved community that has held fast to its heritage and the old charms of the era. They have no fast food joints, and the locals still gather together on the porch of the town coffee shop and talk politics, etc. Families still swim in the little streams, that become larger streams as the tides come in. It is a place where you feel like you've stepped back in time and enjoy the old, simple ways of living.
We pretty much visited every little town, or at least passed through them in the area. Each town has a different flavor, some are artsy, some touristy, some commercialized. I'm very glad we stayed in Brewster as opposed to Hyannis where we originally considered staying, which is very much a city, with heavy traffic (not my idea of a vacation).
Apparently we picked the right time to visit, just before the tourist season, but still at a point where it was warm...before school lets out... (they say that right away, when school is back in session, is another ideal time to visit, as the tourists have left). We didn't have to contend with traffic and crowded beaches.
We went to Provincetown (sadly this town has been taken over by gays and lesbians, so their peace/rainbow flags were waving all over the place), but we went first thing in the morning before the town was stirring and avoided them. We went to First Encounter and to where they docked the Mayflower at the tip of Provincetown (here is a monument and very small park dedicated to the the Pilgrims). This would have been the general area where Peregrine White would have born born, in port, aboard the Mayflower (of whom I am a direct descendant).
We visited Truro Vineyard and did a tour and wine tasting. They have won a good number of awards both nationally and internationally. I very much enjoyed their wines. Truro is where it is thought that, during the scouting of the land, the Pilgrims first found fresh water, very needful for their preservation given they were surrounded by salt water with marshes, the cape, and the ocean.
The beaches are beautiful along the cape. Lighthouses and windmills dot the landscape. Seals and gulls share the waters with the visitors, keeping a safe distance, though still unbelievably close. The sunsets were amazing on the cape waters. Along the east coast it's not often one gets to enjoy the sun setting on the waters, but rather the sunrise. I have long missed the sunsets from the west coast, and still do for that matter. This was a close runner up to that!
We spent one day in Plymouth and saw Plymouth Rock (it was under a portico undergoing construction, so not worth taking pictures). We also visited the Plymouth Hall Museum which was really informative and had great exhibits. Sadly, they would not allow photography or video cameras in the exhibit areas, so I was only able to take pictures outside.
It was funny that, while at the museum, I was trying to watch the informational movie; just outside the viewing area a couple of people kept talking so loud that I could hardly hear. I kept turning to give them "the eye", hoping they would get the hint, but to no avail. I finally turned and did a loud, "shhhh!" I later learned it was the Governor and a museum staffer. He had come for the day to do a commemorative dedication for the upcoming 400th year that will be celebrated very soon. So, I have to laugh at myself for having shhhh-ed the Governor of Massachusettes.
While at Plymouth we also boarded/toured the Mayflower II, a replica of the original ship. It is amazing how little living space these folks had; it is said they were regarded as cargo. I really enjoyed visiting Plymouth, and had I more time or could have planned better, I would have liked to have visited Marshfield and Scituate, as these were towns that were settled by my ancestors after the initial settlement of Plymouth. Edward Winslow and Susanna White (widow of William White) settled Marshfield with her two children and utimately four more they had together. I'm sure there would be plenty of historical information about them there.
Plymouth was probably the high point of my trip, as I cannot help but consider God's providence upon my life in preserving this lineage. It amazes me as I read Of Plymouth Plantation 1620-1647 by William Bradford, how much history is still preserved along the cape, all throughout the area (not just Plymouth).
A close runner up to the day at Plymouth was the day we took the ferry over to Martha's Vineyard. We rented a little convertible crossfire car and rode around with the top down. We visited all but one of the towns. This is a very special place for sure! We especially enjoyed talking with two locals Mike and Jackie, whose son owns a rental beach home next to Michael J. Fox. We just hung out eating local, fresh seafood that the fishermen had just brought in off the boats. There we sat on crates outside Larsen's in Menemsha overlooking the dock. Mike and his wife Jackie were so down to earth and told us about the island, the best places to visit, etc.
We had such a great time; the area has some very rural countryside/farmland with horses, huge ponds, etc. but also has some very charming towns that are artsy, historical, and even victorian communities. It was very fun cruising around all day, the wind whipping through our hair and being able to, on a whim, stroll a beach, or duck into a little restaurant/bar for clams and drinks while watching the sailboats from the patio.
When back to Brewster we enjoyed more beach time. We visited Nausette, Marconi and other beaches, and popped into a little local museum that told about the life/history of the area. We took in a double feature at the drive-in movie, as well as visiting the Brewster Grist Mill site where there is a huge pond (reported to have been fed by several other ponds/lakes) and built with locks to channel the water for powering the grist mill. It is no longer in use, but is still quite a beautiful sight, with abundant water fowl, a fish run of herring, as well a huge snapper turtle. This santuary with clean running streams and small water falls and bridges was within short walking distance from The Barn where we stayed, as was the Paine's Creek site where we observed the stunning sunsets. It was amazing to see the green grassy marshes one day, and then a few days later, have them all under water for the tide.
Cape Cod is definitely one of those places that calls you back for another visit.
On our final day we packed up the car to return home. We checked in one last time with Dave and Judy (parents of the home owner Craig) and neighboring hosts during our stay. We were treated to the most amazing personal tour of their home and garden. Dave is a landscaper by trade and his wife is a stone sculptist. The garden at their home was amazing. It ramble on as though one room to the next, but instead of walls of drywall, were walls of trees, shrubs, grasses, and varying art sculpture. Inside their actual home Judy showed me her handiwork with a relief plaster of paris wall landscape mural she had done in her foyer, a border crafted of actual shells and marine life was featured in their kitchen, and a whimsical faux painted book shelf inter-mixed with real 3-D book bindings was strategically placed around her desk in her office space. It was like a magic playland inside and out! Dave showed us their little secret hideout where they camp in a rustic bedroom shack that lets in breezes, and told us how they once camped the whole winter season without heat! They simply piled blanket upon blanket in 8 degree weather. Granted these two are retired citizens. They simply enjoy life and embrace it at every turn! What a wonderful treat that was...
We took the long way home via Newport, stopping in Misquamicut where I ate a famous lobster roll with locally brewed beer, and rested once more upon the beach at Atlantic Avenue.
We finally arrived home to a very big surprise! While on vacation for the week, Walter had arranged for some friends of ours to do a living room and kitchen make-over. David was in on it as well. What a surprise to come home to an amazingly beautiful new living room and improved kitchen. I had no idea this had been in the works, they had been planning this for weeks, even months. I was totally clueless! Talk about keeping a secret... Friends of ours had even put some flowers in the yard at the entries. So, thinking I was coming home from a surreal vacation to reality, I instead came home to more of the surreal!
It was so funny, because just the week prior to taking my vacation, upon reading a little book called As a Man Thinketh by James Allen, I decided to embrace God's providence upon my life and try and be content with the home I have, to make the most of what I have, with what I have. I started a mini home improvement project of fixing the water damage in the bathroom. I sanded, I painted, and decided I would try and love this little place the best I could and that if I would do this, God would bless me. Well, this was definitely a quick response on God's part to bless me back on account of endeavoring to embrace contentment more.
You can never out do God!
Thank you to my friends and family who allowed God to work such a sweet work in your hearts to bless little ole me! I am moved beyond words!
We stayed at a home rental known as The Barn. It is a pole barn (no nails used in the construction) that was built into a home (this being the original conception). It had a lovely loft, but we primarily stayed on the main level.
At this juncture, it has been an entire week since returning, so as I recollect my time there, I will not necessarily be keeping days and events in sequence, though I will try my best to do so.
We cruised the small, rural town of Brewster with its quaint cape cod homes, many of them with victorian details. Some of these are centuries old, and several are former sea captain homes. There were windmills and grist mills as well as marshes and beaches all along the cape. Brewster is a well preserved community that has held fast to its heritage and the old charms of the era. They have no fast food joints, and the locals still gather together on the porch of the town coffee shop and talk politics, etc. Families still swim in the little streams, that become larger streams as the tides come in. It is a place where you feel like you've stepped back in time and enjoy the old, simple ways of living.
We pretty much visited every little town, or at least passed through them in the area. Each town has a different flavor, some are artsy, some touristy, some commercialized. I'm very glad we stayed in Brewster as opposed to Hyannis where we originally considered staying, which is very much a city, with heavy traffic (not my idea of a vacation).
Apparently we picked the right time to visit, just before the tourist season, but still at a point where it was warm...before school lets out... (they say that right away, when school is back in session, is another ideal time to visit, as the tourists have left). We didn't have to contend with traffic and crowded beaches.
We went to Provincetown (sadly this town has been taken over by gays and lesbians, so their peace/rainbow flags were waving all over the place), but we went first thing in the morning before the town was stirring and avoided them. We went to First Encounter and to where they docked the Mayflower at the tip of Provincetown (here is a monument and very small park dedicated to the the Pilgrims). This would have been the general area where Peregrine White would have born born, in port, aboard the Mayflower (of whom I am a direct descendant).
We visited Truro Vineyard and did a tour and wine tasting. They have won a good number of awards both nationally and internationally. I very much enjoyed their wines. Truro is where it is thought that, during the scouting of the land, the Pilgrims first found fresh water, very needful for their preservation given they were surrounded by salt water with marshes, the cape, and the ocean.
The beaches are beautiful along the cape. Lighthouses and windmills dot the landscape. Seals and gulls share the waters with the visitors, keeping a safe distance, though still unbelievably close. The sunsets were amazing on the cape waters. Along the east coast it's not often one gets to enjoy the sun setting on the waters, but rather the sunrise. I have long missed the sunsets from the west coast, and still do for that matter. This was a close runner up to that!
We spent one day in Plymouth and saw Plymouth Rock (it was under a portico undergoing construction, so not worth taking pictures). We also visited the Plymouth Hall Museum which was really informative and had great exhibits. Sadly, they would not allow photography or video cameras in the exhibit areas, so I was only able to take pictures outside.
It was funny that, while at the museum, I was trying to watch the informational movie; just outside the viewing area a couple of people kept talking so loud that I could hardly hear. I kept turning to give them "the eye", hoping they would get the hint, but to no avail. I finally turned and did a loud, "shhhh!" I later learned it was the Governor and a museum staffer. He had come for the day to do a commemorative dedication for the upcoming 400th year that will be celebrated very soon. So, I have to laugh at myself for having shhhh-ed the Governor of Massachusettes.
While at Plymouth we also boarded/toured the Mayflower II, a replica of the original ship. It is amazing how little living space these folks had; it is said they were regarded as cargo. I really enjoyed visiting Plymouth, and had I more time or could have planned better, I would have liked to have visited Marshfield and Scituate, as these were towns that were settled by my ancestors after the initial settlement of Plymouth. Edward Winslow and Susanna White (widow of William White) settled Marshfield with her two children and utimately four more they had together. I'm sure there would be plenty of historical information about them there.
Plymouth was probably the high point of my trip, as I cannot help but consider God's providence upon my life in preserving this lineage. It amazes me as I read Of Plymouth Plantation 1620-1647 by William Bradford, how much history is still preserved along the cape, all throughout the area (not just Plymouth).
A close runner up to the day at Plymouth was the day we took the ferry over to Martha's Vineyard. We rented a little convertible crossfire car and rode around with the top down. We visited all but one of the towns. This is a very special place for sure! We especially enjoyed talking with two locals Mike and Jackie, whose son owns a rental beach home next to Michael J. Fox. We just hung out eating local, fresh seafood that the fishermen had just brought in off the boats. There we sat on crates outside Larsen's in Menemsha overlooking the dock. Mike and his wife Jackie were so down to earth and told us about the island, the best places to visit, etc.
We had such a great time; the area has some very rural countryside/farmland with horses, huge ponds, etc. but also has some very charming towns that are artsy, historical, and even victorian communities. It was very fun cruising around all day, the wind whipping through our hair and being able to, on a whim, stroll a beach, or duck into a little restaurant/bar for clams and drinks while watching the sailboats from the patio.
When back to Brewster we enjoyed more beach time. We visited Nausette, Marconi and other beaches, and popped into a little local museum that told about the life/history of the area. We took in a double feature at the drive-in movie, as well as visiting the Brewster Grist Mill site where there is a huge pond (reported to have been fed by several other ponds/lakes) and built with locks to channel the water for powering the grist mill. It is no longer in use, but is still quite a beautiful sight, with abundant water fowl, a fish run of herring, as well a huge snapper turtle. This santuary with clean running streams and small water falls and bridges was within short walking distance from The Barn where we stayed, as was the Paine's Creek site where we observed the stunning sunsets. It was amazing to see the green grassy marshes one day, and then a few days later, have them all under water for the tide.
Cape Cod is definitely one of those places that calls you back for another visit.
On our final day we packed up the car to return home. We checked in one last time with Dave and Judy (parents of the home owner Craig) and neighboring hosts during our stay. We were treated to the most amazing personal tour of their home and garden. Dave is a landscaper by trade and his wife is a stone sculptist. The garden at their home was amazing. It ramble on as though one room to the next, but instead of walls of drywall, were walls of trees, shrubs, grasses, and varying art sculpture. Inside their actual home Judy showed me her handiwork with a relief plaster of paris wall landscape mural she had done in her foyer, a border crafted of actual shells and marine life was featured in their kitchen, and a whimsical faux painted book shelf inter-mixed with real 3-D book bindings was strategically placed around her desk in her office space. It was like a magic playland inside and out! Dave showed us their little secret hideout where they camp in a rustic bedroom shack that lets in breezes, and told us how they once camped the whole winter season without heat! They simply piled blanket upon blanket in 8 degree weather. Granted these two are retired citizens. They simply enjoy life and embrace it at every turn! What a wonderful treat that was...
We took the long way home via Newport, stopping in Misquamicut where I ate a famous lobster roll with locally brewed beer, and rested once more upon the beach at Atlantic Avenue.
We finally arrived home to a very big surprise! While on vacation for the week, Walter had arranged for some friends of ours to do a living room and kitchen make-over. David was in on it as well. What a surprise to come home to an amazingly beautiful new living room and improved kitchen. I had no idea this had been in the works, they had been planning this for weeks, even months. I was totally clueless! Talk about keeping a secret... Friends of ours had even put some flowers in the yard at the entries. So, thinking I was coming home from a surreal vacation to reality, I instead came home to more of the surreal!
It was so funny, because just the week prior to taking my vacation, upon reading a little book called As a Man Thinketh by James Allen, I decided to embrace God's providence upon my life and try and be content with the home I have, to make the most of what I have, with what I have. I started a mini home improvement project of fixing the water damage in the bathroom. I sanded, I painted, and decided I would try and love this little place the best I could and that if I would do this, God would bless me. Well, this was definitely a quick response on God's part to bless me back on account of endeavoring to embrace contentment more.
You can never out do God!
Thank you to my friends and family who allowed God to work such a sweet work in your hearts to bless little ole me! I am moved beyond words!
My beloved son, David...Congratulations!
David is graduating high school this upcoming Friday! I am so very proud of him and this accomplishment. Neither Walter nor myself finished, but rather went on to get our GEDs, Walter doing so ahead of his class, my doing so after David was 2 or 3 years old.
I am so excited that Mom may be coming out for the event. We're still trying to coordinate details of her dialysis, but it actually looks do-able! I wish Dad could come out too, but he insists it's too much of an expense to put on us. I cannot help but wonder if it has to do with simply getting older and not wanting to fly such a distance though. Walter's mom doesn't like travelling far like she used to, and recouperating from travel is not as easy when you're older as when you're a young thing. So Dad, if you are reading this, I understand. I hope that is what is truly the hindrance here and not some imposition on us with money. Money is meant to be used in meaningful ways, and David's graduation with grandparents in attendance is very meaningful.
To brag briefly (doting over my loving son), David will be graduating while having taken a vigorous course load this past year. I appreciate this most about him; he endeavors to challenge himself rather than to coast with easy, no brainer classes. He took three AP classes (college level courses) in addition to Spanish III. Granted, he's not the most organized person in the world, so he didn't always turn in assignments on account of not being able to find them, or forgetting to bring homework assignments home in order to complete them. Give that boy a wife that can help keep order and he will be able to do just about anything (just so long as it doesn't bore him).
Boredom is the very reason he took challenging courses as opposed to the easy ones he could have opted for to ensure a high GPA, but he wouldn't do it. He felt that would be a waste of his time to spend day after day in an environment where he is not learning anything. For that I commend him most highly! He has great integrity of heart in matters such as these. He wants to be able to look himself in the eye and know he's growing...improving...being challenged...
I couldn't ask for more in a son who loves God, honors his parents, and takes inventory of his own heart and life to want do what is right and honorable.
I love you David.
I am so excited that Mom may be coming out for the event. We're still trying to coordinate details of her dialysis, but it actually looks do-able! I wish Dad could come out too, but he insists it's too much of an expense to put on us. I cannot help but wonder if it has to do with simply getting older and not wanting to fly such a distance though. Walter's mom doesn't like travelling far like she used to, and recouperating from travel is not as easy when you're older as when you're a young thing. So Dad, if you are reading this, I understand. I hope that is what is truly the hindrance here and not some imposition on us with money. Money is meant to be used in meaningful ways, and David's graduation with grandparents in attendance is very meaningful.
To brag briefly (doting over my loving son), David will be graduating while having taken a vigorous course load this past year. I appreciate this most about him; he endeavors to challenge himself rather than to coast with easy, no brainer classes. He took three AP classes (college level courses) in addition to Spanish III. Granted, he's not the most organized person in the world, so he didn't always turn in assignments on account of not being able to find them, or forgetting to bring homework assignments home in order to complete them. Give that boy a wife that can help keep order and he will be able to do just about anything (just so long as it doesn't bore him).
Boredom is the very reason he took challenging courses as opposed to the easy ones he could have opted for to ensure a high GPA, but he wouldn't do it. He felt that would be a waste of his time to spend day after day in an environment where he is not learning anything. For that I commend him most highly! He has great integrity of heart in matters such as these. He wants to be able to look himself in the eye and know he's growing...improving...being challenged...
I couldn't ask for more in a son who loves God, honors his parents, and takes inventory of his own heart and life to want do what is right and honorable.
I love you David.
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
Blog Quiz: How Stressed Are You?
I thought this would be an appropriate quiz to take in light of my recent rantings about the serious need for a vacation. I guess I really do need to have a Calgon moment!
Take the quiz and see what your stress level is...
http://www.blogthings.com/howstressedareyouquiz/outcome.php
My results:
Your Stress Level is: 65%
You are prone to stress, and you're probably even pretty stressed right now. Life's problems seem to pile up on you, and this often makes you feel depressed and burned out. Learn to take time to relax and enjoy life, even if things are stressful. It's the only way you'll get through the bad times.
Take the quiz and see what your stress level is...
http://www.blogthings.com/howstressedareyouquiz/outcome.php
My results:
Your Stress Level is: 65%
You are prone to stress, and you're probably even pretty stressed right now. Life's problems seem to pile up on you, and this often makes you feel depressed and burned out. Learn to take time to relax and enjoy life, even if things are stressful. It's the only way you'll get through the bad times.
What Kind of Wine Are You?
Take the quiz and post your answers...
http://www.blogthings.com/whatkindofwineareyouquiz/outcome.php
My results:
You Are Chardonnay
Fresh, spirited, and classic - you have many facets to your personality. You can be sweet and light. Or deep and complex. You have a little bit of something to offer everyone... no wonder you're so popular. Approachable and never smug, you are easy to get to know (and love!).
Deep down you are: Dependable and modest
Your partying style: Understated and polite
Your company is enjoyed best with: Cold or wild meat
http://www.blogthings.com/whatkindofwineareyouquiz/outcome.php
My results:
You Are Chardonnay
Fresh, spirited, and classic - you have many facets to your personality. You can be sweet and light. Or deep and complex. You have a little bit of something to offer everyone... no wonder you're so popular. Approachable and never smug, you are easy to get to know (and love!).
Deep down you are: Dependable and modest
Your partying style: Understated and polite
Your company is enjoyed best with: Cold or wild meat
Blog Quiz: How Boyish or Girlish Are You?
Take the quiz and post your answer...
My results:
You Are 40% Boyish and 60% Girlish
You are pretty evenly split down the middle - a total eunuch.Okay, kidding about the eunuch part. But you do get along with both sexes.You reject traditional gender roles. However, you don't actively fight them.You're just you. You don't try to be what people expect you to be.
http://www.blogthings.com/howboyishorgirlishareyouquiz/
My results:
You Are 40% Boyish and 60% Girlish
You are pretty evenly split down the middle - a total eunuch.Okay, kidding about the eunuch part. But you do get along with both sexes.You reject traditional gender roles. However, you don't actively fight them.You're just you. You don't try to be what people expect you to be.
http://www.blogthings.com/howboyishorgirlishareyouquiz/
Sunday, May 18, 2008
Vacation Plans & Other Stuff
So folks, PEI is out of the picture this year. We found out it would be too much time to drive it (almost a full day lost on either end) and flying was going to take four flights with customs...a bit overkill for somewhere that should take an hour or two to fly. So, we are opting for a relaxing stay at Cape Cod (in Brewster, MA). I think it will still do what I need this vacation to do, give me an escape so that I can recharge.
Sorry I have neglected my Blog this past month. It has been pretty crazy these days with David going to Tennessee, then to Italy/Spain. Besides gearing up for graduation and our Limb Day this upcoming Memorial Day weekend. At work it has also been a bit crazy, as we were packing to move to a new building two blocks down. This was a big move, but it makes a lot of sense, as there was so much wasted space at the former site and the move will help the company save around 1/2 million dollars in rent each year. This will help people keep their jobs. Sad news this past week...a gentleman that worked for the building and would greet me most every morning committed suicide. It was totally unexpected and everyone (including myself) was sure that the rumor must be a mistake, but sadly, it turned out that it was him. It truly came as a shocker to see someone like him give up hope at such a tender age. He was only 28.
On a more cheerful note, though, after that, it feels more like meloncholy... I was able to see a pianist perform at Carnegie Hall. Her name was Katya Grineva of Russia and it was the 10 year anniversary of her first performance at Carnegie. What an amazing performance! She was not only talented, but the piano was as though an extension of her limbs with which she expressed herself via her music. It was sponsored through Monster.com and as an HR client who contracts with them for recruitment, I was given two tickets for free. There was a cocktail party beforehand at the Russian Tea Room (apparently reputed as the filming site for a movie, though I can't recall if it was Tootsie or Mrs. Doubtfire...but something like that).
This past week, I was again given tickets on account of my work in HR. This time from Plum Benefits for whom I distribute the monthly specials to all the employees at our company. They gave me four Broadway Musical tickets (front mezzanine to boot!) to see The Little Mermaid, which was very impressive. The acts were great, the singing, dancing, and sets were all amazing. Needless to say, I was pleasantly surprised at the quality of what I thought would be a "cheesy" juvenile rendition of Disney animation. Well, my preformed ideas were shot down after the very first act. After the musical we were out front when the actress who played Ariel came out, she was on her way to the limo and signing autographs, but bless David's heart, he spent too much time trying to figure out the logistics of having her sign the souvenier booklet that he totally missed the opportunity. She was in a hurry and he was one step too late. (Though he said he did manage to accidently step on her toe.)
Finally, I was given two tickets to see the Yankees vs. Toronto at Yankee's Stadium, also on account of work, from one of the temp agencies we work closely with. This is the final year the Yankees will be playing in this stadium, as they are building a new one next to this old, nostalic, bit of American pastime history. I am looking forward to this game, though I am told the Yankees aren't doing so great this year. Never-the-less, this will be wonderful visiting a historical landmark (and again, great seats Loge Box MVP seats and prepaid preferred parking included). This month has been one pleasant, unexpected surprise after another!
Well folks, I've gotta get my butt into bed as tomorrow is an early day at work since it's our first day at the new site and the caterer is coming early to drop off food. I've gotta be there to meet them and set up for the employees. It's nearly 12:30 a.m. here and it's a big day tomorrow (or should I say today).
God bless you, keep you, and show His favor to you abundantly.
Sorry I have neglected my Blog this past month. It has been pretty crazy these days with David going to Tennessee, then to Italy/Spain. Besides gearing up for graduation and our Limb Day this upcoming Memorial Day weekend. At work it has also been a bit crazy, as we were packing to move to a new building two blocks down. This was a big move, but it makes a lot of sense, as there was so much wasted space at the former site and the move will help the company save around 1/2 million dollars in rent each year. This will help people keep their jobs. Sad news this past week...a gentleman that worked for the building and would greet me most every morning committed suicide. It was totally unexpected and everyone (including myself) was sure that the rumor must be a mistake, but sadly, it turned out that it was him. It truly came as a shocker to see someone like him give up hope at such a tender age. He was only 28.
On a more cheerful note, though, after that, it feels more like meloncholy... I was able to see a pianist perform at Carnegie Hall. Her name was Katya Grineva of Russia and it was the 10 year anniversary of her first performance at Carnegie. What an amazing performance! She was not only talented, but the piano was as though an extension of her limbs with which she expressed herself via her music. It was sponsored through Monster.com and as an HR client who contracts with them for recruitment, I was given two tickets for free. There was a cocktail party beforehand at the Russian Tea Room (apparently reputed as the filming site for a movie, though I can't recall if it was Tootsie or Mrs. Doubtfire...but something like that).
This past week, I was again given tickets on account of my work in HR. This time from Plum Benefits for whom I distribute the monthly specials to all the employees at our company. They gave me four Broadway Musical tickets (front mezzanine to boot!) to see The Little Mermaid, which was very impressive. The acts were great, the singing, dancing, and sets were all amazing. Needless to say, I was pleasantly surprised at the quality of what I thought would be a "cheesy" juvenile rendition of Disney animation. Well, my preformed ideas were shot down after the very first act. After the musical we were out front when the actress who played Ariel came out, she was on her way to the limo and signing autographs, but bless David's heart, he spent too much time trying to figure out the logistics of having her sign the souvenier booklet that he totally missed the opportunity. She was in a hurry and he was one step too late. (Though he said he did manage to accidently step on her toe.)
Finally, I was given two tickets to see the Yankees vs. Toronto at Yankee's Stadium, also on account of work, from one of the temp agencies we work closely with. This is the final year the Yankees will be playing in this stadium, as they are building a new one next to this old, nostalic, bit of American pastime history. I am looking forward to this game, though I am told the Yankees aren't doing so great this year. Never-the-less, this will be wonderful visiting a historical landmark (and again, great seats Loge Box MVP seats and prepaid preferred parking included). This month has been one pleasant, unexpected surprise after another!
Well folks, I've gotta get my butt into bed as tomorrow is an early day at work since it's our first day at the new site and the caterer is coming early to drop off food. I've gotta be there to meet them and set up for the employees. It's nearly 12:30 a.m. here and it's a big day tomorrow (or should I say today).
God bless you, keep you, and show His favor to you abundantly.
Monday, April 21, 2008
Thank you for supporting my blog
Dear friends and family,
Thank you for not giving up on me and my blog. One of these days I will write something. Until then, thank you for continuing to check the site in hope that I will eventually post something.
David left for a school trip to Europe yesterday. He went to Italy and eventually will spend his last day in Spain. He visited Pompeii today and was elated. He is the very first of our immediate family to actually use his passport. He will also visit Genoa, Barcelona, Rome, and Florence. What an itnerary (though these are noted by recollection only and are in no particular order). This is through EF Tours and was our Christmas gift to him this past year. (He paid for the first installment and we picked up the balance.)
I am desperately in need of a vacation. I am experiencing burnout lately. Perhaps the longer days, flowers and warmer weather will help cure what's ailing me, but I think the real cure is a relaxing vacation with no one telling me what to do, or when to do it. A real, genuine, full fledged vacation. I was considering a few options. One of these days the Grand Canyon would be nice to see and a visit with my kin folk, but summer hardly seems the appropriate time and perhaps waiting until the cooler weather of fall comes in would offer more refreshment. I was thinking about visiting Plymouth Rock and that whole area, but think that I would rather make a long weekend vacation of that visit. And yes, eventually I will visit Niagara Falls, though again this is likely a weekend trip. Fall is also a great time for touring the New England area with it's changing season, but waiting until then is just WAY TOO LONG to wait for a vacation!
My latest whimsical idea that actually stirred my affection is Canada's Prince Edward Island! I know, you're probably questioning my sanity about now. But this is the setting of the novel series, Anne of Green Gables. When I was checking out the site I discovered 2008 marks the 100th anniversary of Lucy Maud Montgomery's series. This was a pleasant surprise, but the biggest selling point of a vacation site like this is: 1.) it's in another country 2.) an english speaking community 3.) there are green, rolling pastures that go on for miles 4.) there are beaches and dunes 5.) the lifestyle is laid back there 6.) it's the setting of this great series of books I enjoyed.
http://www.gov.pe.ca/visitorsguide/index.php3
When I saw the pastural scenes, flower gardens, farm communities with old Victoian homesteads and barns I suddenly realized that this felt like the kind of place where I could find rest and reflection, and thereby a genuine time of rejuvenation. Add to that beaches and paths for walking and cycling (if I get adventurous) and that only expands my options. We'll see how things progress. It's hard to really think about a vacation beyond this as presently I have a few things that are vying for my best thinking and time.
Thank you for not giving up on me and my blog. One of these days I will write something. Until then, thank you for continuing to check the site in hope that I will eventually post something.
David left for a school trip to Europe yesterday. He went to Italy and eventually will spend his last day in Spain. He visited Pompeii today and was elated. He is the very first of our immediate family to actually use his passport. He will also visit Genoa, Barcelona, Rome, and Florence. What an itnerary (though these are noted by recollection only and are in no particular order). This is through EF Tours and was our Christmas gift to him this past year. (He paid for the first installment and we picked up the balance.)
I am desperately in need of a vacation. I am experiencing burnout lately. Perhaps the longer days, flowers and warmer weather will help cure what's ailing me, but I think the real cure is a relaxing vacation with no one telling me what to do, or when to do it. A real, genuine, full fledged vacation. I was considering a few options. One of these days the Grand Canyon would be nice to see and a visit with my kin folk, but summer hardly seems the appropriate time and perhaps waiting until the cooler weather of fall comes in would offer more refreshment. I was thinking about visiting Plymouth Rock and that whole area, but think that I would rather make a long weekend vacation of that visit. And yes, eventually I will visit Niagara Falls, though again this is likely a weekend trip. Fall is also a great time for touring the New England area with it's changing season, but waiting until then is just WAY TOO LONG to wait for a vacation!
My latest whimsical idea that actually stirred my affection is Canada's Prince Edward Island! I know, you're probably questioning my sanity about now. But this is the setting of the novel series, Anne of Green Gables. When I was checking out the site I discovered 2008 marks the 100th anniversary of Lucy Maud Montgomery's series. This was a pleasant surprise, but the biggest selling point of a vacation site like this is: 1.) it's in another country 2.) an english speaking community 3.) there are green, rolling pastures that go on for miles 4.) there are beaches and dunes 5.) the lifestyle is laid back there 6.) it's the setting of this great series of books I enjoyed.
http://www.gov.pe.ca/visitorsguide/index.php3
When I saw the pastural scenes, flower gardens, farm communities with old Victoian homesteads and barns I suddenly realized that this felt like the kind of place where I could find rest and reflection, and thereby a genuine time of rejuvenation. Add to that beaches and paths for walking and cycling (if I get adventurous) and that only expands my options. We'll see how things progress. It's hard to really think about a vacation beyond this as presently I have a few things that are vying for my best thinking and time.
Sunday, March 30, 2008
Happy Birthday Amanda!
I would like to dedicate a sweet birthday wish to my "baby" sister Amanda. She celebrated her 32nd birthday yesterday. What a great example she is of someone who knows how to have fun, retain youth, and keep her playful nature! Happy birthday little sister (spoken in my best Rooster Cogburn/ John Wayne impersonation). I love you very much.
With all my heart...
With all my heart...
Saturday, March 29, 2008
What's Up...
Not a whole lot going on out here in New York. Primarily, life has been more about maintenance and steadiness rather than anything else. In my spare time of course I read quite a bit. Most of my writing has been on a more personal level for my own purposes of self discovery. More precisely, this would be re-discovery, as I have been working through emotions and life habits and evaluating why I do certain things, when I do them. Anyways, I'm only on the beginning exercises, working through childhood experiences and family life. In this alone, I have already written well over eight pages and feel I have only skimmed the surface. There are several more topics to go, and no, I will not post these to my site as they are too personal.
Other things I am reading are related to writing, specifically with regards to style, grammar, and just some sweet tips. I really do enjoy writing and also editing. It's one thing to write to a blog from the top of one's head, and quite another to write and refine, write and refine, constantly tweaking until finally happy with the final product. Were I to write like this at my blog all the time then I would update it with even less frequency than already I do.
As for other areas of my life, it's finally becoming spring and I am endeavoring to up my game to get outside more. I have to really fight for my time outdoors, as I can get too caught up in duties that I can neglect my own personal needs and simple pleasures. As a result, I have found myself with less joy than usual. I know it is God's will that I enjoy my life, but oh, how difficult I find it to let myself have fun when I know other things are vying for time and energy. It often takes a concerted effort to play when there's work to be done, and by then I find myself too burned out to have fun. Anyone else ever get like this? I think I need a little vacation, but then I think, how I need to get these nagging things done so I could actually enjoy some time de-stressing.
One thing I am trying to do more of is incorporate activity into life that sort of kills two birds (working out and having fun) with one proverbial stone. I recently ordered some exercise videos that are dance themed. Granted, I'm not all that coordinated when it comes to dance or aerobics, freestyle is more my thing, but I'm having some fun, though I feel like a dork at times with how foreign some of the new moves are. I got two Samba dance videos, the Island Girl series for both Hula dance and Tahitian dance, as well as Zumba. I've enjoyed the Island Girls videos the best thus far. The lessons are easier to learn and the moves are simpler and more graceful, yet they are not as easy as they look. I like how Kili (the instructor) builds one move at a time and then builds from there in small routines. Finally, she puts the different routines together. The moves are authentic dance steps to boot!
There really hasn't been all that much excitement around here. Life lately has been about remaining steadfast. While I might like to see some changes occur, I just don't have the energy after a full day's work and the other daily things that arise, to take on extra challenges. I suppose if I had the energy to take on some of these, the following would be getting done: my teaching that I will present in May for a statewide ministry function, my basement getting organized and de-cluttered so I can actually find things that I haven't been able to locate since the move, and putting in a flower garden as well as some herbs. But honestly, the homestead is probably the one thing that has me double minded...I don't really like this rental. I never would have picked this place, but we've managed to make it work somehow. So trying to unpack too much or put in a garden sort of seem like a major commitment to actually living here longer, which I don't know that I want to do. Yet on the other hand, to move again seems overwhelming too.
Perhaps putting more effort into making this place more to my liking would be the best... the rent's great for this area (though most of you would choke if I told you what we pay), the utilities are included, there's actually off-street parking (a near miracle in these parts) and we have a great landlord (willing to hire David for work as well as to give him paid training contruction this summer), albeit, there is just one bathroom and a lot of "jimmy rigged" maintenance that makes this single dwelling into two family dwellings (something commonly done around here). I don't have to make a decision today obviously - waiting until David finishes High School and decides more of his plans may be a big factor. I guess I will stay put until I have more to go on...
I know contentment should be more prevalent, that I should count my blessings... and perhaps this is why my energy seems depleted. Any suggestions (especially biblically based ones) are most welcome!
Other things I am reading are related to writing, specifically with regards to style, grammar, and just some sweet tips. I really do enjoy writing and also editing. It's one thing to write to a blog from the top of one's head, and quite another to write and refine, write and refine, constantly tweaking until finally happy with the final product. Were I to write like this at my blog all the time then I would update it with even less frequency than already I do.
As for other areas of my life, it's finally becoming spring and I am endeavoring to up my game to get outside more. I have to really fight for my time outdoors, as I can get too caught up in duties that I can neglect my own personal needs and simple pleasures. As a result, I have found myself with less joy than usual. I know it is God's will that I enjoy my life, but oh, how difficult I find it to let myself have fun when I know other things are vying for time and energy. It often takes a concerted effort to play when there's work to be done, and by then I find myself too burned out to have fun. Anyone else ever get like this? I think I need a little vacation, but then I think, how I need to get these nagging things done so I could actually enjoy some time de-stressing.
One thing I am trying to do more of is incorporate activity into life that sort of kills two birds (working out and having fun) with one proverbial stone. I recently ordered some exercise videos that are dance themed. Granted, I'm not all that coordinated when it comes to dance or aerobics, freestyle is more my thing, but I'm having some fun, though I feel like a dork at times with how foreign some of the new moves are. I got two Samba dance videos, the Island Girl series for both Hula dance and Tahitian dance, as well as Zumba. I've enjoyed the Island Girls videos the best thus far. The lessons are easier to learn and the moves are simpler and more graceful, yet they are not as easy as they look. I like how Kili (the instructor) builds one move at a time and then builds from there in small routines. Finally, she puts the different routines together. The moves are authentic dance steps to boot!
There really hasn't been all that much excitement around here. Life lately has been about remaining steadfast. While I might like to see some changes occur, I just don't have the energy after a full day's work and the other daily things that arise, to take on extra challenges. I suppose if I had the energy to take on some of these, the following would be getting done: my teaching that I will present in May for a statewide ministry function, my basement getting organized and de-cluttered so I can actually find things that I haven't been able to locate since the move, and putting in a flower garden as well as some herbs. But honestly, the homestead is probably the one thing that has me double minded...I don't really like this rental. I never would have picked this place, but we've managed to make it work somehow. So trying to unpack too much or put in a garden sort of seem like a major commitment to actually living here longer, which I don't know that I want to do. Yet on the other hand, to move again seems overwhelming too.
Perhaps putting more effort into making this place more to my liking would be the best... the rent's great for this area (though most of you would choke if I told you what we pay), the utilities are included, there's actually off-street parking (a near miracle in these parts) and we have a great landlord (willing to hire David for work as well as to give him paid training contruction this summer), albeit, there is just one bathroom and a lot of "jimmy rigged" maintenance that makes this single dwelling into two family dwellings (something commonly done around here). I don't have to make a decision today obviously - waiting until David finishes High School and decides more of his plans may be a big factor. I guess I will stay put until I have more to go on...
I know contentment should be more prevalent, that I should count my blessings... and perhaps this is why my energy seems depleted. Any suggestions (especially biblically based ones) are most welcome!
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
The Opinion that Matters Most...HIS Opinion!
The other day I did a Google search on "Givers and Takers" that opened to me a whole train of thought. To sum up the gist of the study, people who are givers (aka nice people) are often this way because they are looking for acceptance of others. Now this is, in no wise, an all-inclusive conclusion, only a tendancy that is common among givers. This can even be something that is occuring on a subconscious level.
Perhaps you had to compete for attention among many siblings, or were from the wrong side of the tracks (like me), just to name a couple of scenarios. You may, unknowingly be seeking acceptance to know that you're okay. But what the study continued to explain is that when that acceptance is not given, the tendancy is to get angry or sad (hurt) that your "niceness", your giving, is rejected.
Thankfully the study moved toward God, and this is where combining my recent studies in the scriptures came full circle. When we believe on Jesus Christ, when we believe as Romans 10:9 & 10 exhorts (confess Jesus as Lord and believe God raised him from the dead), then we are saved and made whole. Romans speaks of the righteousness that comes of believing and not of works. It is part of the nature of the gift of holy spirit given at the time of the new birth. Righteousness is made unto us. We take on this characteristic spiritually in the new man. Of course, the real day-to-day living is when we put on mentally what is within us spiritually, when we really believe and act according to our new nature that is like Christ.
Well, to take this truth a bit further, I got to thinking about the righteousness we have, how God made us accepted in the Beloved. How He made us his handiwork (poema in the Greek, which means masterpiece). How He made it available to have access to His heart, to lay our hearts bare before Him without condemnation. How we can stand before Him with remission for sins, and receive forgiveness when we screw up. He truly wants us to be able to have confidence toward Him, to stand in His presence daily without sensing guilt, condemnation, fear, or shortcomings. He paid the ultimate price of His Son's life in order for us to have this new life. And yet...
So often, if we forget to look at ourselves through the kinder eyes of God, through His filter of mercy and His grace...if we do not remember that we are already approved before Him...we will seek to find approval from a baser source - mankind. How often we forget that we are accepted of God! That we are a sweet smelling savor unto Him! It is at times like these, in our forgetfullness (or perhaps ingorance if we have not yet been instructed) that we will seek glory of men. And sadly, it is at these very times that we will also discover our greatest rejections and disappointments. Mankind does not readily look within that they might behold the perfection of the "Christ in us" as our Heavenly Father does; mankind does not gaze upon our hearts that they might consider our motives.
We need to raise our vision to think of ourselves according to what He thinks. It is then that we will declare as Paul did in his epistle to the Romans (Romans 8:30 & 31):
And of course, if we are thinking rightly of ourselves according to what He has made us, our reply will be, "No one!" (Or at least, it won't really matter what others think of us, so long as we care most deeply about what He thinks of us!)
With this kind of freedom from seeking acceptance of others, imagine now the liberty with which you can now give if you so desire. Now the kind of giving that is for the sheer sake of giving, and not for approval of others, can begin. Such giving is full of agape love that seeketh not her own. Such giving is full of grace that expects nothing in return. Such giving is free; it needs no man's approval, for it has already found it with God!
Perhaps you had to compete for attention among many siblings, or were from the wrong side of the tracks (like me), just to name a couple of scenarios. You may, unknowingly be seeking acceptance to know that you're okay. But what the study continued to explain is that when that acceptance is not given, the tendancy is to get angry or sad (hurt) that your "niceness", your giving, is rejected.
Thankfully the study moved toward God, and this is where combining my recent studies in the scriptures came full circle. When we believe on Jesus Christ, when we believe as Romans 10:9 & 10 exhorts (confess Jesus as Lord and believe God raised him from the dead), then we are saved and made whole. Romans speaks of the righteousness that comes of believing and not of works. It is part of the nature of the gift of holy spirit given at the time of the new birth. Righteousness is made unto us. We take on this characteristic spiritually in the new man. Of course, the real day-to-day living is when we put on mentally what is within us spiritually, when we really believe and act according to our new nature that is like Christ.
Well, to take this truth a bit further, I got to thinking about the righteousness we have, how God made us accepted in the Beloved. How He made us his handiwork (poema in the Greek, which means masterpiece). How He made it available to have access to His heart, to lay our hearts bare before Him without condemnation. How we can stand before Him with remission for sins, and receive forgiveness when we screw up. He truly wants us to be able to have confidence toward Him, to stand in His presence daily without sensing guilt, condemnation, fear, or shortcomings. He paid the ultimate price of His Son's life in order for us to have this new life. And yet...
So often, if we forget to look at ourselves through the kinder eyes of God, through His filter of mercy and His grace...if we do not remember that we are already approved before Him...we will seek to find approval from a baser source - mankind. How often we forget that we are accepted of God! That we are a sweet smelling savor unto Him! It is at times like these, in our forgetfullness (or perhaps ingorance if we have not yet been instructed) that we will seek glory of men. And sadly, it is at these very times that we will also discover our greatest rejections and disappointments. Mankind does not readily look within that they might behold the perfection of the "Christ in us" as our Heavenly Father does; mankind does not gaze upon our hearts that they might consider our motives.
We need to raise our vision to think of ourselves according to what He thinks. It is then that we will declare as Paul did in his epistle to the Romans (Romans 8:30 & 31):
Moreover whom he did predestinate, them he also called: and whom he called, them he also justified: and whom he justified, them he also glorified. What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us?
And of course, if we are thinking rightly of ourselves according to what He has made us, our reply will be, "No one!" (Or at least, it won't really matter what others think of us, so long as we care most deeply about what He thinks of us!)
With this kind of freedom from seeking acceptance of others, imagine now the liberty with which you can now give if you so desire. Now the kind of giving that is for the sheer sake of giving, and not for approval of others, can begin. Such giving is full of agape love that seeketh not her own. Such giving is full of grace that expects nothing in return. Such giving is free; it needs no man's approval, for it has already found it with God!
Thursday, January 31, 2008
A Time for Tranformation
Nothing poetic here, I simply want to share some thoughts that have been on my heart lately...
Lately, I have been thinking about accepting change. Change is one of those things that's inevitable. I am learning to accept that fact and to come to peace with it, namely, in the pursuit to become more like my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
I liken it to a sculptor who has before him a large block of beautiful, white marble. In one hand he holds a chisel, in the other the hammer. He has in mind what the marble is to become and with it, he begins chiseling away all that is not fashioned after this image, removing bit by bit that which is extraneous.
And so it is with God as the Master Sculptor; He sees what we are becoming. He knows that we wish to be fashioned after the beautiful and brilliant likeness of His Son. With tenderness and grace, he lovingly chisels away that which is not after that image. It may be painful at times to experience these "growing pains" but as we become more and more like Christ, we come to appreciate those lessons and chastenings of our Loving Father, realizing that all the while He has had our best interests at heart.
Some of my greatest challenges have been my greatest "growth spurts". It never feels good to be faced with change or challenges, but these are the very times when we can find ourselves lifting our eyes to our Father and asking for His help, guidance, and strength. It is when we stop putting our trust in ourselves that He can direct us best. It is when we toss up our hands for lack of strength that His power can strengthen us. When we quit ourselves and begin anew with Him, this is when we are in the dynamic place of best becoming all that God has purposed and planned for us to be.
Change is good.
Lately, I have been thinking about accepting change. Change is one of those things that's inevitable. I am learning to accept that fact and to come to peace with it, namely, in the pursuit to become more like my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
I liken it to a sculptor who has before him a large block of beautiful, white marble. In one hand he holds a chisel, in the other the hammer. He has in mind what the marble is to become and with it, he begins chiseling away all that is not fashioned after this image, removing bit by bit that which is extraneous.
And so it is with God as the Master Sculptor; He sees what we are becoming. He knows that we wish to be fashioned after the beautiful and brilliant likeness of His Son. With tenderness and grace, he lovingly chisels away that which is not after that image. It may be painful at times to experience these "growing pains" but as we become more and more like Christ, we come to appreciate those lessons and chastenings of our Loving Father, realizing that all the while He has had our best interests at heart.
Some of my greatest challenges have been my greatest "growth spurts". It never feels good to be faced with change or challenges, but these are the very times when we can find ourselves lifting our eyes to our Father and asking for His help, guidance, and strength. It is when we stop putting our trust in ourselves that He can direct us best. It is when we toss up our hands for lack of strength that His power can strengthen us. When we quit ourselves and begin anew with Him, this is when we are in the dynamic place of best becoming all that God has purposed and planned for us to be.
Change is good.
Thursday, January 24, 2008
Survey:100% Interesting
Here are the questions, you supply the answers:
1. What is the one thing that you're most interested in right now?
2. What is the one thing that you're least interested in right now?
3. Who is the most interesting person you know?
4. Who is the least interesting person you know?
5. What is the most interesting thing about yourself?
My answers to follow...
1. What is the one thing that you're most interested in right now?
2. What is the one thing that you're least interested in right now?
3. Who is the most interesting person you know?
4. Who is the least interesting person you know?
5. What is the most interesting thing about yourself?
My answers to follow...
Sunday, January 6, 2008
Update: Thanksgiving through Christmas, and now 2008!
Well, not a lot of news or writings to post, but then again, the holidays have been quite frantic. It seems that once Halloween is over, the fury of the holiday rush is thrust upon us. Add to that my son's birthday around Thanksgiving, and my husband's birthday in mid December, and you can see why my blog has been neglected. I however, refuse to succumb to the madness anytime prior to Thanksgiving.
Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday and one of the few truly godly ones remaining. Sadly, the commercialism of the Christmas season overshadows, for most, the one day when people bow their heads in prayer, and pause long enough to consider the blessings and bounty God has provided. Can we not set aside at least one day out of the year to give thanks, not caught up in covetousness, nor compulsive gift giving? (Never mind that it would be ideal to set aside one day of the week to dedicate one's heart to our Heavenly Father.)
So, needless to say, the holiday season gets off to a late start each year in our household as opposed to most Americans, with a few important distractions between Thanksgiving and Christmas. By now, this being the first week of the New Year, I am ready to relax and put my feet up for a quick breather. How do I spend my much needed R&R? Well, I've taken up watching CSI (the Nevada series) and reading.
Those who know me best know I am never immersed in only one book, but maybe five or six at any given time. Most of the books have a common theme of taking up a new career objective in writing. Peter Bowerman has been my main read with his book entitled The Well Fed Writer, which focuses on how to break into freelance writing in a relatively short timeframe. Granted, I can't give the writing my sole focus while working a full time job in corporate America and doing volunteer ministry work, but the reading and learning has been fascinating! My vision has been raised and I see possibility on the horizon. Now it's a matter of actually putting the pen to paper and writing...
Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday and one of the few truly godly ones remaining. Sadly, the commercialism of the Christmas season overshadows, for most, the one day when people bow their heads in prayer, and pause long enough to consider the blessings and bounty God has provided. Can we not set aside at least one day out of the year to give thanks, not caught up in covetousness, nor compulsive gift giving? (Never mind that it would be ideal to set aside one day of the week to dedicate one's heart to our Heavenly Father.)
So, needless to say, the holiday season gets off to a late start each year in our household as opposed to most Americans, with a few important distractions between Thanksgiving and Christmas. By now, this being the first week of the New Year, I am ready to relax and put my feet up for a quick breather. How do I spend my much needed R&R? Well, I've taken up watching CSI (the Nevada series) and reading.
Those who know me best know I am never immersed in only one book, but maybe five or six at any given time. Most of the books have a common theme of taking up a new career objective in writing. Peter Bowerman has been my main read with his book entitled The Well Fed Writer, which focuses on how to break into freelance writing in a relatively short timeframe. Granted, I can't give the writing my sole focus while working a full time job in corporate America and doing volunteer ministry work, but the reading and learning has been fascinating! My vision has been raised and I see possibility on the horizon. Now it's a matter of actually putting the pen to paper and writing...
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