I remember a time when all I had to worry about was finishing what was on my plate. It didn't matter what we were eating, even if it were vegetables, it was my duty to finish every single bite. The fate of some starving child in Africa apparently depended on it. I could end every meal a hero!
It's funny how time rephrases the problems of youth. I mean, as an adult, I'm still worried about handling all the things on my plate. Only now, this plate is the list of things I have to do. AND, this plate is more like 5 plates all spinning on 8 foot poles and I need to keep them going. Also, I'm expected to do this while riding a unicycle on a tight-rope across Niagara Falls...
If this seems about accurate, then the worst part is still to come. Because all this effort and stress, what does it get us? At least as a kid, I had the fabrication of helping some poor kid in a impoverished nation to reward my efforts of cleaning my plate. But there is no such carrot at the end of the stick that society offers now. The harsh reality is that the end of a life of ladder climbing and rat racing, there's virtually NOTHING to look forward to... Except:
A shrinking economy, evaporating social security, declining health care, soaring premiums for insurance, increased stupidity across the board, and becoming part of one of the most marginalized, neglected, and underappreciated age groups in society.
Seriously, if we took one good look at what the future holds and ask "why am I doing all this?" the answer just might make you call in sick tomorrow morning.
Luckily, I've already found the answer to this harsh situation. I know the truth - my clean plate doesn't help a soul in another country. My efforts aren't what secure my future. It's simply my faith in Christ that pulls me through. My future isn't held HERE on earth, but somewhere much, MUCH better.
So, when the pressure is on, and I'm on the tight-rope without the safety net, I rest secure because I'm not bound by that pressure. I can rest easy knowing that nothing in this life's struggle is going to affect my destiny, my sweet reward, and my future in Christ.
Take that, life. BOOM.
Wednesday, November 20, 2013
Sunday, July 28, 2013
Grace isn't a way of life, it IS life!
You could go into nearly any church in America and ask their pastor to explain this wonderful word called Grace. And nearly every pastor would explain to you that Grace is the undeserved blessing of God that is available to each of us by way of the cross. It is transformational! It is powerful! It is the Gospel!
There's no doubt that, theologically speaking, any Christian worth their salt can articulate and explain this message of Grace. Some will even proclaim it as the only way to live. We are no longer bound by the Law of the Old Testament. We don't need to fear condemnation or perform rituals to appease our Lord. Now we abide by Grace.
I've been contemplating this whole "living by Grace" idea a lot lately. I've been blessed with the peculiar vantage point to see many people's lives and observe what this actually looks like. I've learned that there are really two realities that occur when people live by Grace.
ONE: There are SO many who have the theological concept of Grace written on the walls of their mind, it's inscribed on their very hearts and they proclaim to live by it. BUT, what I have found is that so many live a dual life. While they understand Grace, they attempt to consolidate it and make it come under the rest of the Old Testament - which is Law.
- Where the Law made us aware of our sins, it showed us our incompetence to do anything about it. Where the Law failed, Grace succeeded. The sacrifice of Christ, once and for all, paid the price for our sins and GRACE was extended where only condemnation would have sufficed. Grace, is the sin solution! -
But too many try to walk a bipolar line when they preach Grace but still live by the Law. It's incredibly self-defeating. Because if we hold ourselves under the Law, then Grace cannot free our hearts from the condemnation and judgment associated with the Law.
To me, it's like KNOWING the right puzzle piece is across the table, but still trying to jam in the wrong fit in place. Only frustration follows.
There are others who actually MAKE GRACE THEIR LAW! Can you imagine that? Some Christians are so religious that they have to take a gift that was so lovingly given and make others, and themselves, pay for it?
The danger is when we simply understand Grace in our heads only. Because if we are determined to live under any Law, Grace can easily become a law to our hearts. We KNOW how Christ would want us to act, or we hyper-extend a concept of Christian perfection that is beyond Christ himself. We hold the bar so high that even if we had angel's wings, we couldn't make it over the top. It's possible to bind ourselves with this idea of living by Grace...
TWO: These people understand Grace. They don't live BY it, they live IN it. Because they truly understand that Grace is not a concept or a theological paradigm, it's the very person and nature of Jesus Christ! Grace IS the Gospel. The Gospel IS Jesus!
When we live IN Grace, it is life. It is Jesus himself extending His nature through our hearts and into our world. We are free in Grace because we rest on God's righteousness. We do not fear the Law because we are not bound to it anymore. Those who live by Grace do not need to be worried about living by the letter of the Law because the author and completer of the Law lives IN them. Christ fulfilled the requirements of the Law so we no longer need to strive under the expectations that were impossible for us!
Now here's the trick - we live IN Christ and he lives IN us. Because he is guiding our thoughts and hearts and actions and LIFE, the Law is met through Him. That's why we don't worry about it. The sin was dealt with on the Cross. We died with Christ, so now we join Him in the resurrection and grab hold of the fullness of life that is available to us NOW.
Those who truly live IN Grace extend the same humbling power that they have experienced. The truth is that we are made complete in Christ. We lack nothing. The Law has been fulfilled. There is no longer any condemnation in Christ Jesus. A righteousness from God is available to us.
So Grace IS Jesus. When we stop focusing on our failures like someone counting malfeasance's waiting punishment THEN we can rest our eyes on Jesus and his Amazing Grace that is able to transform our lives into holiness - Completeness! Yielding the fruit of the Spirit. It's Christ's fruit. We just bear it.
Just some truth. Take it or leave it. Leave questions and comments below. Thanks!
There's no doubt that, theologically speaking, any Christian worth their salt can articulate and explain this message of Grace. Some will even proclaim it as the only way to live. We are no longer bound by the Law of the Old Testament. We don't need to fear condemnation or perform rituals to appease our Lord. Now we abide by Grace.
I've been contemplating this whole "living by Grace" idea a lot lately. I've been blessed with the peculiar vantage point to see many people's lives and observe what this actually looks like. I've learned that there are really two realities that occur when people live by Grace.
ONE: There are SO many who have the theological concept of Grace written on the walls of their mind, it's inscribed on their very hearts and they proclaim to live by it. BUT, what I have found is that so many live a dual life. While they understand Grace, they attempt to consolidate it and make it come under the rest of the Old Testament - which is Law.
- Where the Law made us aware of our sins, it showed us our incompetence to do anything about it. Where the Law failed, Grace succeeded. The sacrifice of Christ, once and for all, paid the price for our sins and GRACE was extended where only condemnation would have sufficed. Grace, is the sin solution! -
But too many try to walk a bipolar line when they preach Grace but still live by the Law. It's incredibly self-defeating. Because if we hold ourselves under the Law, then Grace cannot free our hearts from the condemnation and judgment associated with the Law.
To me, it's like KNOWING the right puzzle piece is across the table, but still trying to jam in the wrong fit in place. Only frustration follows.
There are others who actually MAKE GRACE THEIR LAW! Can you imagine that? Some Christians are so religious that they have to take a gift that was so lovingly given and make others, and themselves, pay for it?
The danger is when we simply understand Grace in our heads only. Because if we are determined to live under any Law, Grace can easily become a law to our hearts. We KNOW how Christ would want us to act, or we hyper-extend a concept of Christian perfection that is beyond Christ himself. We hold the bar so high that even if we had angel's wings, we couldn't make it over the top. It's possible to bind ourselves with this idea of living by Grace...
TWO: These people understand Grace. They don't live BY it, they live IN it. Because they truly understand that Grace is not a concept or a theological paradigm, it's the very person and nature of Jesus Christ! Grace IS the Gospel. The Gospel IS Jesus!
When we live IN Grace, it is life. It is Jesus himself extending His nature through our hearts and into our world. We are free in Grace because we rest on God's righteousness. We do not fear the Law because we are not bound to it anymore. Those who live by Grace do not need to be worried about living by the letter of the Law because the author and completer of the Law lives IN them. Christ fulfilled the requirements of the Law so we no longer need to strive under the expectations that were impossible for us!
Now here's the trick - we live IN Christ and he lives IN us. Because he is guiding our thoughts and hearts and actions and LIFE, the Law is met through Him. That's why we don't worry about it. The sin was dealt with on the Cross. We died with Christ, so now we join Him in the resurrection and grab hold of the fullness of life that is available to us NOW.
Those who truly live IN Grace extend the same humbling power that they have experienced. The truth is that we are made complete in Christ. We lack nothing. The Law has been fulfilled. There is no longer any condemnation in Christ Jesus. A righteousness from God is available to us.
So Grace IS Jesus. When we stop focusing on our failures like someone counting malfeasance's waiting punishment THEN we can rest our eyes on Jesus and his Amazing Grace that is able to transform our lives into holiness - Completeness! Yielding the fruit of the Spirit. It's Christ's fruit. We just bear it.
Just some truth. Take it or leave it. Leave questions and comments below. Thanks!
Wednesday, July 10, 2013
Bring me BACK
Today didn't start out like most days. This morning I woke up with what I lovingly call a Frustration Hangover. I went to bed so flustered and discouraged that the rainclouds actually followed me from unconsciousness back into the waking world as the sun rose. Rarely have I EVER been so down in the dumps that my mood wasn't able to bounce back after a good night's rest.
What made last night terrible? The fact is, nothing immensely tragic or horrifying took place. No one punched me in the nose. No one stole my car. No one murdered kittens in front of me. I didn't trip and fall or embarrass myself in front of the lady-folk. It was just one single, tiny, insignificant straw that broke the proverbial camel's back... and I didn't realize there was so much piled on.
I know you're curious so here's the long and short of it - I moved to Texas 3 short months ago to undertake a new chapter in life. I'm working with the most amazing church right now but only PART TIME. Anyone who's lived more than 3 weeks in the real world knows that - unless you have rich relatives or personal hedge fund - part time work doesn't cut it in terms of survival. Money issues have been a major stressor in the past few weeks. Wait! There's more.
Couple the hours issue with the nature of my line of work. I'm a pastor, it's in my spiritual DNA to put forth the major efforts of my mind, body and spirit to the church and commit myself to God and His people. Part-time means that I don't even have enough time in the week to make the type of connections and efforts that I would WANT to do in ministry. Meaning, I don't feel that I'm giving 100% because... well... I'm not.
Here's the crazy part. Listen, I know that God provides. He says so in his word. I've heard the testimonies of God's blessings and amazingness. I've lived it, heck, I've preached it. But even still, I found myself immensely discouraged. Especially this next part.
I believed that God gives all of us gifts to use. One of my gifts is that (for the most part) if I can see it, then I can make it happen. Meaning, I'm VERY good at arts and crafts. Pssssst, check out my pics on Facebook and instagram.
I'd made this halo2 replica sniper rifle to sell to a person on EBay. I REALLY could've used the money right now and spent quite a bit of free time to create. BUT, got a final coat of paint on it and pulled it up to take a look... and... cracked the barrel off... Tears of pain and anguish...
That's why my night ended in complete dismay. Hard work poured down the drain and a chance for cash set back considerably. I woke up this morning in need. Not in need of money or stress relief but greatly in need of renewed faith and encouragement.
And that's exactly what I found in the family that I have at church. I received a word from my brother in Christ that reminded me of God's goodness and faithfullness. I already know God is good and remind myself of the same passages that were shared. But there's something strangely powerful about hearing of God's goodness. God also told someone to encourage me randomly today. It was just a small gesture but it meant the world to me this day.
And so, just twenty-four hours later, my entire perception has been realigned. My attitude has been refreshed and my faith strengthened just a little bit more.
What made last night terrible? The fact is, nothing immensely tragic or horrifying took place. No one punched me in the nose. No one stole my car. No one murdered kittens in front of me. I didn't trip and fall or embarrass myself in front of the lady-folk. It was just one single, tiny, insignificant straw that broke the proverbial camel's back... and I didn't realize there was so much piled on.
I know you're curious so here's the long and short of it - I moved to Texas 3 short months ago to undertake a new chapter in life. I'm working with the most amazing church right now but only PART TIME. Anyone who's lived more than 3 weeks in the real world knows that - unless you have rich relatives or personal hedge fund - part time work doesn't cut it in terms of survival. Money issues have been a major stressor in the past few weeks. Wait! There's more.
Couple the hours issue with the nature of my line of work. I'm a pastor, it's in my spiritual DNA to put forth the major efforts of my mind, body and spirit to the church and commit myself to God and His people. Part-time means that I don't even have enough time in the week to make the type of connections and efforts that I would WANT to do in ministry. Meaning, I don't feel that I'm giving 100% because... well... I'm not.
Here's the crazy part. Listen, I know that God provides. He says so in his word. I've heard the testimonies of God's blessings and amazingness. I've lived it, heck, I've preached it. But even still, I found myself immensely discouraged. Especially this next part.
I believed that God gives all of us gifts to use. One of my gifts is that (for the most part) if I can see it, then I can make it happen. Meaning, I'm VERY good at arts and crafts. Pssssst, check out my pics on Facebook and instagram.
I'd made this halo2 replica sniper rifle to sell to a person on EBay. I REALLY could've used the money right now and spent quite a bit of free time to create. BUT, got a final coat of paint on it and pulled it up to take a look... and... cracked the barrel off... Tears of pain and anguish...
That's why my night ended in complete dismay. Hard work poured down the drain and a chance for cash set back considerably. I woke up this morning in need. Not in need of money or stress relief but greatly in need of renewed faith and encouragement.
And that's exactly what I found in the family that I have at church. I received a word from my brother in Christ that reminded me of God's goodness and faithfullness. I already know God is good and remind myself of the same passages that were shared. But there's something strangely powerful about hearing of God's goodness. God also told someone to encourage me randomly today. It was just a small gesture but it meant the world to me this day.
And so, just twenty-four hours later, my entire perception has been realigned. My attitude has been refreshed and my faith strengthened just a little bit more.
Thursday, May 9, 2013
Dream Daredevil
I was never the kid in school who got caught looking out the window during class. You know this kid; the one who is easily distracted by the raging imagination locked up in his head. The structure of the classroom cannot contend with the freedom of thought happening in worlds unseen. I wasn't that kid. My imagination happened to be expressed in the art of duct-tape creations... but that's a story for another time.
Back to this kid, this daydreamer. My question is, "How come this kid ALWAYS winds up in trouble?" The teacher will always come over, slap the desk, and shatter the thought bubble of this kid who is lost in an epic world of amazing imagination. Why is it not ok to dream?
Think about it. The whole world seems to foster an intense hatred for anyone who dares to dream. The Wright Brothers were ridiculed for their attempts at creating a machine that could fly. IMPOSSIBLE! And anyone who dared to dream differently was labeled "CRAZY." That's still the case today. People who accept the world as it is, with all its problems and limitations, cannot bear people who neglect the pattern - who don't go with the flow - and who dare to dream of something different.
"CRAZY"
It's true. All dreamers are CRAZY. That is, until the dream becomes reality.
When dreamers dare to dream they will face all sorts of resistance, hostilities, haters, and apathy. People hate dreamers because they challenge what IS with what COULD be. If you're a dreamer, then you can't allow others to hold you back from pursuing dreams. There will always be opposition, but if you can overcome it and bring the dream into reality - there's no greater triumph! When dreams come true people take notice, haters are silenced, and it inspires OTHERS to dream too!
That is the whole point of the Gospel. The dream is one that we've been given. God's dream for this world is that HIS Kingdom should reign in our hearts. When Christ is center of our world, when HE is our dream, and when that dream is brought into reality, lives are changed! What IS - the failed, broken, sinful, dysfunctional world that we know gives way to the NEW life that is restored and perfected within the Grace of Christ!
That is the dream. Forget what others are saying and DREAM ON!
Back to this kid, this daydreamer. My question is, "How come this kid ALWAYS winds up in trouble?" The teacher will always come over, slap the desk, and shatter the thought bubble of this kid who is lost in an epic world of amazing imagination. Why is it not ok to dream?
Think about it. The whole world seems to foster an intense hatred for anyone who dares to dream. The Wright Brothers were ridiculed for their attempts at creating a machine that could fly. IMPOSSIBLE! And anyone who dared to dream differently was labeled "CRAZY." That's still the case today. People who accept the world as it is, with all its problems and limitations, cannot bear people who neglect the pattern - who don't go with the flow - and who dare to dream of something different.
"CRAZY"
It's true. All dreamers are CRAZY. That is, until the dream becomes reality.
When dreamers dare to dream they will face all sorts of resistance, hostilities, haters, and apathy. People hate dreamers because they challenge what IS with what COULD be. If you're a dreamer, then you can't allow others to hold you back from pursuing dreams. There will always be opposition, but if you can overcome it and bring the dream into reality - there's no greater triumph! When dreams come true people take notice, haters are silenced, and it inspires OTHERS to dream too!
That is the whole point of the Gospel. The dream is one that we've been given. God's dream for this world is that HIS Kingdom should reign in our hearts. When Christ is center of our world, when HE is our dream, and when that dream is brought into reality, lives are changed! What IS - the failed, broken, sinful, dysfunctional world that we know gives way to the NEW life that is restored and perfected within the Grace of Christ!
That is the dream. Forget what others are saying and DREAM ON!
Tuesday, April 30, 2013
Safe to Write Again
Hey there, Faithful Readers!
First, let me extend my sincerest apologies for being absent for so long. I know it's no big deal. It's not like millions of people look forward to reading what I write or anything; but if even one person misses out on my brain ramblings then I feel bad... kinda, sorta...
Exciting times, to be sure! In just a few moments it will be the first day of May. While this fact simply means another turn of the calendar page for most, for me it marks a whole month since my life's story turned a new chapter. It's been 4 weeks since I left Florida to take up the adventure of living in Texas! I don't need to explain to you how drastic of a life change it is to relocate and start life over. I'm sure too many of you can relate to that.
This leg of my life's journey has helped me realize that there are so many aspects of life that we worry about when we don't really need to. We place such an inflated importance on concerns that really don't make much sense in the grand scheme of things.
For example, I realize that I placed WAY too much emphasis on "taking care of myself." I don't mean that I was exercising every day, eating right, or trying to better myself (I was trying to do some of that...); I mean that I was so bogged down with stress and anxiety that I was always concerning myself with my emotional state. I would justify an extra snack, hours of mind-numbing entertainment, or a mid-day nap while I blow off the world and its demans - all for the cause of "keeping my mental composure."
I thought that what I did defined who I was. In fact, I loathed that fact so much that I did everything (passive aggressively, of course) I could to resist letting being defined by my position.
My desire to appear successful meant I would strive for some "cool" things. The big TV, the nice car, the cool phone... and those are all nice things and I do consider myself blessed to have them, but my focus was way off.
What's worse is that I KNEW my focus was off. For the past 3 years I could've screamed in an instant because I knew something was fundamentally wrong with the paradigm I was living. I struggled so much to keep myself together because the position I was in and the way I perceived the expectations for MY life drove me to where I knew I could not stay.
Those who know me know I pastor, I work in the church. And even Church people can get the wrong motives and focus on the wrong things. In fact, sometimes we're the worst when it comes to misplaced priorities... because we should KNOW better. I was wrong there too...
I was focused on getting numbers up. My focus was primarily functional logistics and planning over authentic discipleship. Sometimes I would make planning more important than people.
I put ministry before myself. And my body and mind suffered.
What's more, I put my Crusade before Christ... and my spirit suffered so much more...
I was stuck. I was in a rut. My heart cringed when I thought about how much work it'd take to pull myself out of where I was. There was no one who could've helped me drag my heart out of the despair. No mentor to lean on, no friend to call up. It was a dark, dark time.
The only releif I received was the numbing amusements I passified my aching, empty spirit with. But Netflix is a poor substitute for spiritual fulfillment. My relationship with God was neglected.
It took 1,200 miles to clear my head. It took a drastic life change to shake my perspective back in line. And it took leaving a BUNCH of people I care about to kill my apathy.
From the wonderful messages from truly inspired individuals here, I've been reminded that my priority is simple - enjoy the presence and love of God. I don't have to worry. I don't have to strive. I don't have to work to obtain something from my Heavenly Father. It's not up to me to work in MY power to fix or heal myself. I'm incapable of doing that anyway. Somehow, I'd forgotten that and tried my hardest to "make it work" where I was at. And it was killing me.
But now I'm safe. Life feels new again. I wake up each day EXCITED instead of dreading each moment. What makes the difference is the perspective that Truth supplies. The Truth is, Jesus is LORD! He's my All in All. He makes the difference and all I have to do is trust and walk in faith. Simple as that. He supplies the rest.
And he supplies the REST.
Good to be back. Hope to discuss some interesting things with ya'll soon!
First, let me extend my sincerest apologies for being absent for so long. I know it's no big deal. It's not like millions of people look forward to reading what I write or anything; but if even one person misses out on my brain ramblings then I feel bad... kinda, sorta...
Exciting times, to be sure! In just a few moments it will be the first day of May. While this fact simply means another turn of the calendar page for most, for me it marks a whole month since my life's story turned a new chapter. It's been 4 weeks since I left Florida to take up the adventure of living in Texas! I don't need to explain to you how drastic of a life change it is to relocate and start life over. I'm sure too many of you can relate to that.
This leg of my life's journey has helped me realize that there are so many aspects of life that we worry about when we don't really need to. We place such an inflated importance on concerns that really don't make much sense in the grand scheme of things.
For example, I realize that I placed WAY too much emphasis on "taking care of myself." I don't mean that I was exercising every day, eating right, or trying to better myself (I was trying to do some of that...); I mean that I was so bogged down with stress and anxiety that I was always concerning myself with my emotional state. I would justify an extra snack, hours of mind-numbing entertainment, or a mid-day nap while I blow off the world and its demans - all for the cause of "keeping my mental composure."
I thought that what I did defined who I was. In fact, I loathed that fact so much that I did everything (passive aggressively, of course) I could to resist letting being defined by my position.
My desire to appear successful meant I would strive for some "cool" things. The big TV, the nice car, the cool phone... and those are all nice things and I do consider myself blessed to have them, but my focus was way off.
What's worse is that I KNEW my focus was off. For the past 3 years I could've screamed in an instant because I knew something was fundamentally wrong with the paradigm I was living. I struggled so much to keep myself together because the position I was in and the way I perceived the expectations for MY life drove me to where I knew I could not stay.
Those who know me know I pastor, I work in the church. And even Church people can get the wrong motives and focus on the wrong things. In fact, sometimes we're the worst when it comes to misplaced priorities... because we should KNOW better. I was wrong there too...
I was focused on getting numbers up. My focus was primarily functional logistics and planning over authentic discipleship. Sometimes I would make planning more important than people.
I put ministry before myself. And my body and mind suffered.
What's more, I put my Crusade before Christ... and my spirit suffered so much more...
I was stuck. I was in a rut. My heart cringed when I thought about how much work it'd take to pull myself out of where I was. There was no one who could've helped me drag my heart out of the despair. No mentor to lean on, no friend to call up. It was a dark, dark time.
The only releif I received was the numbing amusements I passified my aching, empty spirit with. But Netflix is a poor substitute for spiritual fulfillment. My relationship with God was neglected.
It took 1,200 miles to clear my head. It took a drastic life change to shake my perspective back in line. And it took leaving a BUNCH of people I care about to kill my apathy.
From the wonderful messages from truly inspired individuals here, I've been reminded that my priority is simple - enjoy the presence and love of God. I don't have to worry. I don't have to strive. I don't have to work to obtain something from my Heavenly Father. It's not up to me to work in MY power to fix or heal myself. I'm incapable of doing that anyway. Somehow, I'd forgotten that and tried my hardest to "make it work" where I was at. And it was killing me.
But now I'm safe. Life feels new again. I wake up each day EXCITED instead of dreading each moment. What makes the difference is the perspective that Truth supplies. The Truth is, Jesus is LORD! He's my All in All. He makes the difference and all I have to do is trust and walk in faith. Simple as that. He supplies the rest.
And he supplies the REST.
Good to be back. Hope to discuss some interesting things with ya'll soon!
Monday, January 21, 2013
I, too, have a dream...
It would figure that I would completely miss the fact that it's Martin Luther King Jr. Day... I headed out to Starbucks under the assumption that kids would be in school. NOW, this tiny shop is PACKED with dozens of small children and their respective families... So much for a quiet place to think and work.
Since I'm trapped in the corner until the crowd dies down, I did have time to figure out why there is an influx of persons here this morning and it did get me thinking on the cause for this holiday.
The quote "I have a dream..." continues to reverberate inside my head. Possibly the most inspirational speech ever given in America includes the dream of a better world. This dream of a world where people respect and treat each other not just as equals, but as better than what we are, is still not the reality that we all experience. In fact, I would dare say that we've fallen seriously short of achieving this dream.
In our own minds, the dream of equality can only be reached if WE get what's OURS. If WE can nab the respect due to US. We've become increasingly ego-centric in our aims at equality. We demand justice, we shout for our rights. We tread on the liberties of others to right the offense that has damaged our pride. It is this very course of action that disrupts the dream...
I have found this simple concept true time and time again - In order to GET respect, you have to GIVE respect. Sadly, this concept hardly makes it through the tender pride and calloused hearts of today's society. It is rarely implemented; it is not appreciated and applauded when exemplified. It is ridiculed, denounced, avoided, and hushed. Why? Because it is difficult for anyone to GIVE what is not deserved.
But giving to others what they don't deserve is precisely the action of character that makes us deserving.
There is still a struggle today. Everyone is demanding what they feel they "deserve." We protest, we complain, we riot. We do this because it's been successful in the past. If we don't get it, we take it. It's ours, we "deserve" it. Whatever legitimacy we have to our entitlement is lost when we choose to behave in an undeserving way. We have become children throwing tantrums just to get another cup of milk.
Sadly, the dream is still just that; a dream nestled in the heart of freedom. An ideal that still eludes reality because too many have traded patience for convenience, virtue for entitlement, morality for money...
My dream won't be real until people wake up and morally contend with the issues plaguing our nation:
- Abortion
- Same sex marriages
- Rampant unemployment (Due to bloated profits and higher taxes)
- Moral erosion
- Family disintegration
- Out of control Politicians
- General apathy for others
Folks, at the core of these issues is a common cause. This cause cannot be counteracted by any legislature, it cannot be stopped by any petition, it cannot be undone by any committee. No, the cause of these problems has to do with a rotten heart and seared soul. The problem is a heart problem. We have lost our way, America. We have forfeited the dream for the nightmare of self-entitlement. We do not give and soon there will be nothing to take.
Bravo. You've spat on the grave of every single person who sacrificed their time and lives to give you the freedom to throw your liberty away...
Happy Martin Luther King Jr. Day.
Since I'm trapped in the corner until the crowd dies down, I did have time to figure out why there is an influx of persons here this morning and it did get me thinking on the cause for this holiday.
The quote "I have a dream..." continues to reverberate inside my head. Possibly the most inspirational speech ever given in America includes the dream of a better world. This dream of a world where people respect and treat each other not just as equals, but as better than what we are, is still not the reality that we all experience. In fact, I would dare say that we've fallen seriously short of achieving this dream.
In our own minds, the dream of equality can only be reached if WE get what's OURS. If WE can nab the respect due to US. We've become increasingly ego-centric in our aims at equality. We demand justice, we shout for our rights. We tread on the liberties of others to right the offense that has damaged our pride. It is this very course of action that disrupts the dream...
I have found this simple concept true time and time again - In order to GET respect, you have to GIVE respect. Sadly, this concept hardly makes it through the tender pride and calloused hearts of today's society. It is rarely implemented; it is not appreciated and applauded when exemplified. It is ridiculed, denounced, avoided, and hushed. Why? Because it is difficult for anyone to GIVE what is not deserved.
But giving to others what they don't deserve is precisely the action of character that makes us deserving.
There is still a struggle today. Everyone is demanding what they feel they "deserve." We protest, we complain, we riot. We do this because it's been successful in the past. If we don't get it, we take it. It's ours, we "deserve" it. Whatever legitimacy we have to our entitlement is lost when we choose to behave in an undeserving way. We have become children throwing tantrums just to get another cup of milk.
Sadly, the dream is still just that; a dream nestled in the heart of freedom. An ideal that still eludes reality because too many have traded patience for convenience, virtue for entitlement, morality for money...
My dream won't be real until people wake up and morally contend with the issues plaguing our nation:
- Abortion
- Same sex marriages
- Rampant unemployment (Due to bloated profits and higher taxes)
- Moral erosion
- Family disintegration
- Out of control Politicians
- General apathy for others
Folks, at the core of these issues is a common cause. This cause cannot be counteracted by any legislature, it cannot be stopped by any petition, it cannot be undone by any committee. No, the cause of these problems has to do with a rotten heart and seared soul. The problem is a heart problem. We have lost our way, America. We have forfeited the dream for the nightmare of self-entitlement. We do not give and soon there will be nothing to take.
Bravo. You've spat on the grave of every single person who sacrificed their time and lives to give you the freedom to throw your liberty away...
Happy Martin Luther King Jr. Day.
Friday, January 18, 2013
Things I Make
It's FRIDAY! While that may mean payday to some and the advent of the weekend and rest to others, to me it means that my busy days are approaching. However you shall be rewarded for slacking off from your Friday duties! Here's some stuff I made and a quick description of how I made it.
Essentially everyone who's EVER played a video game has dreamed of bringing something from the game into reality. I am not immune to this fantasy, so I decided that I would bring Link's Shield from Legend of Zelda into the real world. I know others have already done this, so I knew it was perfectly doable.
I start with finding a PEPAKURA file online. Basically, it's a program where people can take 3D objects, and digitally "unfold" them into 2D pieces. I can print this out, cut the pieces, and then fold and glue them together to make it 3D again. Think of it like a 3D puzzle.
It looks like this when I'm done.
Because I print this out of cardstock, the next step HAS to be strengthening this shield so it's not flimsy or bendable. Because a shield that bends or rips is pretty much useless...
I pick up some Bondo fiberglass resin from Walmart. It's the stuff they use on car body-work. It's pretty effective and hardens into a tough shell. (If you decide to tackle this type of project on your own, be sure to read the directions for fiberglass resin CAREFULLY!)
Once the shield has had several coats of resin, I can move onto PAINTING! Priming the shield is key. What style of shield you decide to make helps determine what color to prime. New-looking shields should use a white or metallic to prime. I decided to make my shield look aged, so I primed with black. (I call this style RELIC)
Looks nice, right? Well, now we have to add color. For shields past, I used spray paint. I wanted a smooth, new look, and spraypaint can help that happen. When you do, you get a result like this.
I used spraypaint for the silver and blue, and handpainted the red and gold. If you're not that proficient at free hand painting, you're in good company. I "cheat" by printing off the detail portion from the internet and making my own stencil.
Again, spraypaint works well for a newer look to your project, but I wanted one to look ancient. Instead of paint, I used Rub n Buff which I could just smear on with my fingers. This is what I ended up with.
I then used my hand painted cheat for the red detail. Hint: if you put down some torn pieces of masking tape over where you plan to paint, you can get that scratched look. Just pull up the tape after you paint.
My final piece turned out looking GREAT! Take a look.
Not too shabby if I do say. Only took my free time for a few days to make this happen.
Essentially everyone who's EVER played a video game has dreamed of bringing something from the game into reality. I am not immune to this fantasy, so I decided that I would bring Link's Shield from Legend of Zelda into the real world. I know others have already done this, so I knew it was perfectly doable.
I start with finding a PEPAKURA file online. Basically, it's a program where people can take 3D objects, and digitally "unfold" them into 2D pieces. I can print this out, cut the pieces, and then fold and glue them together to make it 3D again. Think of it like a 3D puzzle.
It looks like this when I'm done.
Because I print this out of cardstock, the next step HAS to be strengthening this shield so it's not flimsy or bendable. Because a shield that bends or rips is pretty much useless...
I pick up some Bondo fiberglass resin from Walmart. It's the stuff they use on car body-work. It's pretty effective and hardens into a tough shell. (If you decide to tackle this type of project on your own, be sure to read the directions for fiberglass resin CAREFULLY!)
Once the shield has had several coats of resin, I can move onto PAINTING! Priming the shield is key. What style of shield you decide to make helps determine what color to prime. New-looking shields should use a white or metallic to prime. I decided to make my shield look aged, so I primed with black. (I call this style RELIC)
Looks nice, right? Well, now we have to add color. For shields past, I used spray paint. I wanted a smooth, new look, and spraypaint can help that happen. When you do, you get a result like this.
I used spraypaint for the silver and blue, and handpainted the red and gold. If you're not that proficient at free hand painting, you're in good company. I "cheat" by printing off the detail portion from the internet and making my own stencil.
Again, spraypaint works well for a newer look to your project, but I wanted one to look ancient. Instead of paint, I used Rub n Buff which I could just smear on with my fingers. This is what I ended up with.
I then used my hand painted cheat for the red detail. Hint: if you put down some torn pieces of masking tape over where you plan to paint, you can get that scratched look. Just pull up the tape after you paint.
My final piece turned out looking GREAT! Take a look.
Not too shabby if I do say. Only took my free time for a few days to make this happen.
Wednesday, January 9, 2013
Vacationite
I've never truly understood how some people have an aversion to work. Honestly, work is one of the most rewarding things in all of creation. The pure satisfaction of looking back on the hours of labor poured into a project and seeing a finished product resulting from near nothingness... it's exhilarating! I know, not all work yields such rewarding or tangible products, but accomplishing something is still worthwhile.
But there are some (many) who avoid work like the plague. There are a few who I've met that I seriously doubt if they've ever sweat a bead in their entire life. And then they complain that they don't feel any sort of fulfillment in life. How strange...
If you've never worked hard, not only will you never get something rewarding from your efforts, you'll also NEVER be able to fully appreciate one of the sweetest creations in life - VACATION!
Vacation is the most amazing concept. But it's only fully realized when you've put in everything you have into your work. After all, what is rest if you've never known real work?
Well, I just had a mini-vacation this past week. I shot up to South Carolina to visit my lovely sister. She's has two amazing blogs that you all should check out if you haven't. One is personal - Click here for that! And the other she showcases her astounding talent at baking cookies and other confections - Grab napkin and drool.
This vacation was filled with sleep, playing Pokemon on my phone, and drinking LOTS of coffee while spending time with my sister. Not the worst vacation I've ever had. In fact, we were even productive in beginning to restore my old laptop. It'll soon be re purposed as a dedicated emulator hub for video games.
I know vacations aren't supposed to be productive, but I can't help myself.
But here's my real thought - Work: aren't we supposed to be excellent at what we do? This may just be me, but I've never felt as if "Good enough" is a viable option. I know that "good enough" often has to do in a pinch since we only have so much time and energy and options. But my desire is to do something truly EXCELLENT! I have the burning need to master something. Anything!
This causes me to be frustrated at either my lack of time, talent or patience because all of these factors limit my ability to create the perfection I see in my brain. Too often, my impatience has hurried my efforts and derailed my work's quality, no matter what I'm doing. Even when I write, my hastiness demands that I do everything with a single draft. I don't revise, I don't go back over. I just attempt perfection on the first try and let the chips fall where they may... Not the best strategy, I know.
Sometimes I imagine how amazing my words could be if I had the patience to hold onto a thought until it became a gem polished by intense thought and revision... I may not know this concept until later in life, again, due to my impatience.
BUT, what frustrates me the most is to realize that I may never truly master ANYTHING in this life. The painful truth is that there will always be someone better at everything than me... Someone faster, stronger, better, more detailed, more articulate, smarter, better looking, richer, more charismatic, etc...
This thought bereaves me with anguish. It makes me feel as if all my efforts amount to nothing. How can I gain recognition if I'm not the best? It's not that I feel I'm without skill. In fact, I have some excellent skills in many different areas. I've become a Jack of all Trades in a sense. Good at many things, master of none. I'll do in a pinch, filling in when the master is unavailable, but I'm not the first draft pick.
This is why I love vacation. On vacation, I don't expect myself to be anything. I don't have to be the best. I don't even have to be "good enough," I can just enjoy what I'm good (or not so good) at and leave it at that. For me, that's the best part of rest. It's not the work that bothers me, it's the comparative concepts associated that brings about the stress of the job.
Striving for perfection is in and of itself a flawed pursuit. I need to learn to strive for improvement instead and just try to do better each day. Learn, adapt, grow. Forget the pressure to be the best, the pressure that I heap on my own self.
How will you improve today? May I suggest, be a better blog reader - leave a comment. Even just to say "HI! I read what you wrote."
But there are some (many) who avoid work like the plague. There are a few who I've met that I seriously doubt if they've ever sweat a bead in their entire life. And then they complain that they don't feel any sort of fulfillment in life. How strange...
If you've never worked hard, not only will you never get something rewarding from your efforts, you'll also NEVER be able to fully appreciate one of the sweetest creations in life - VACATION!
Vacation is the most amazing concept. But it's only fully realized when you've put in everything you have into your work. After all, what is rest if you've never known real work?
Well, I just had a mini-vacation this past week. I shot up to South Carolina to visit my lovely sister. She's has two amazing blogs that you all should check out if you haven't. One is personal - Click here for that! And the other she showcases her astounding talent at baking cookies and other confections - Grab napkin and drool.
This vacation was filled with sleep, playing Pokemon on my phone, and drinking LOTS of coffee while spending time with my sister. Not the worst vacation I've ever had. In fact, we were even productive in beginning to restore my old laptop. It'll soon be re purposed as a dedicated emulator hub for video games.
I know vacations aren't supposed to be productive, but I can't help myself.
But here's my real thought - Work: aren't we supposed to be excellent at what we do? This may just be me, but I've never felt as if "Good enough" is a viable option. I know that "good enough" often has to do in a pinch since we only have so much time and energy and options. But my desire is to do something truly EXCELLENT! I have the burning need to master something. Anything!
This causes me to be frustrated at either my lack of time, talent or patience because all of these factors limit my ability to create the perfection I see in my brain. Too often, my impatience has hurried my efforts and derailed my work's quality, no matter what I'm doing. Even when I write, my hastiness demands that I do everything with a single draft. I don't revise, I don't go back over. I just attempt perfection on the first try and let the chips fall where they may... Not the best strategy, I know.
Sometimes I imagine how amazing my words could be if I had the patience to hold onto a thought until it became a gem polished by intense thought and revision... I may not know this concept until later in life, again, due to my impatience.
BUT, what frustrates me the most is to realize that I may never truly master ANYTHING in this life. The painful truth is that there will always be someone better at everything than me... Someone faster, stronger, better, more detailed, more articulate, smarter, better looking, richer, more charismatic, etc...
This thought bereaves me with anguish. It makes me feel as if all my efforts amount to nothing. How can I gain recognition if I'm not the best? It's not that I feel I'm without skill. In fact, I have some excellent skills in many different areas. I've become a Jack of all Trades in a sense. Good at many things, master of none. I'll do in a pinch, filling in when the master is unavailable, but I'm not the first draft pick.
This is why I love vacation. On vacation, I don't expect myself to be anything. I don't have to be the best. I don't even have to be "good enough," I can just enjoy what I'm good (or not so good) at and leave it at that. For me, that's the best part of rest. It's not the work that bothers me, it's the comparative concepts associated that brings about the stress of the job.
Striving for perfection is in and of itself a flawed pursuit. I need to learn to strive for improvement instead and just try to do better each day. Learn, adapt, grow. Forget the pressure to be the best, the pressure that I heap on my own self.
How will you improve today? May I suggest, be a better blog reader - leave a comment. Even just to say "HI! I read what you wrote."
Tuesday, January 1, 2013
Gun "Control"
It's not even January 2nd and already I'm putting up another blog post... Oh my. Hope someone put down their resolution to read obscure blogs more often!
I'm up and I can't sleep. My brain keeps tinkering with thoughts and concerns keep me up. I know this happens to a lot of people, but my concerns probably don't qualify as "NORMAL." For example, most people would probably be concerned knowing there are people with guns. My concern is that someone might just take their guns away...
Hot-button issue across the country - Gun Control! You probably guessed my standpoint just from that last paragraph, but before you shoot down my position (hehehehe... gun humor!), take a moment to hear out my thoughts on this crucial issue.
Lock and Load!
The way I chose to look at this issue is by taking a glance at the history of our nation. Why do we even have the second amendment to begin with? What were the issues facing our fledgling country that compelled our founding fathers to allow these rights to exist?
I learned that there were many legitimate reasons for allowing Americans to possess their own firearms. Here's what they seemed to boil down to:
- Defeat invaders (British)
- Made it possible to form a militia (If needed to fight the British)
- Dissuade tyrannical governments from taking power (British AND American)
- Personal protection (From other people with guns!)
- Supress insurrection (Crazy people loyal to Britain)
One of the greatest reasoning behind granting the right to bear arms was so that the Colonies could muster a defensive force against the inevitable war against the British. Nowadays, our "Well regulated militia" is the Army, Navy, Marines, and National Guard. They do protect our borders. As so police men and masked vigilantes (not so often those last ones...).
So, the question MUST be asked: Do any of these reasons still apply to our society today?
Well... we don't have to worry TOO much about the British attacking. We already have a strong military (some say TOO strong...). We have other means readily available to suppress insurrectionists and traitors.
I would say that there are only two reasons still applicable today that would warrant upholding the second amendment: Dissuading tyranny and personal protection. Let's explore the notion!
Tyranny is always persistent. It doesn't matter how many checks and balances we put in place, people in power will always find a way to obtain more power. It's only a matter of time before someone decides to take the presidency a little too far. The price of freedom is perpetual vigilance from threats both foreign and domestic! Sometimes the greatest threat to our freedom comes from within.
If the majority of people agreed to give up the right to bear arms, then we could be opening a door down the road to massive tyranny imposing itself through the American Government. I know! It's a long shot right? The government telling us what to do, how to work, how much money we can make, what we can and can't eat, where to go for health care... Maybe not so much of a stretch after all...
If (and that's a BIG if) the government ever did get out of hand, our founding fathers wanted to give us the opportunity to fight back. At least it would make it a bit more difficult for the government to take over its people. I mean, we can't exactly get on another Mayflower and try this whole thing over again. Right? Probably a good enough reason alone is to keep the government in check. Like a last defense type of thing.
Then there's the self defense issue. Do we still have unsafe neighborhoods and people committing violent acts? Yes. Yes, we do. But are guns really necessary in order to protect ourselves? I mean, we have a WHOLE lot of non-lethal options: Tasers, pepper spray, socks with rolls of quarters in them, bricks in purses, phasers, plastic light sabers, attack pigeons... The list really goes on and on for effective close range weapons that aren't likely to kill an attacker.
And my personal position on self defense is that I wouldn't want a gun in my home. But you need to understand where I'm coming from with that. See, I have had the experience of being robbed at gun point. I have trained heavily in the martial arts. I know EXACTLY what to do if someone breaks into my home and is armed. I don't own a gun, because that would be largely ineffective for that situation. Someone breaks into my house at night, they're going to round a corner to come face to face with a razor sharp KATANA! Silent, elegant, but very messy...
My point is that non-lethal weapons are a GREAT advantage for the person who wants a great personal defense from up-close attackers. If you're grabbed or snuck up on, these weapons, and others, are great for SHORT RANGE situations.
But, if I were in a large room, outdoors, in a restaurant, anyplace where an attacker were from 20-50 feet away... well, even my 3 foot blade of slicing steel would be ineffective at that distance. Guns are ideal for stopping crazy people with guns in real life situations where the death toll can climb quickly. I dare say that the only time you'd need a gun for personal protection is when you're outside your own home.
There you have it. Those two reasons alone convince (my mind at least) that the second amendment should continue unimpeded. This is the futile thought - That making a LAW would possibly STOP a lawBREAKER. Laws don't protect us from people with guns, it just makes it simpler to punish them IF we catch them alive...
If you happen to have a favorite meme on this Gun Control issue, please share it in the comment section!
PEW PEW PEW!
I'm up and I can't sleep. My brain keeps tinkering with thoughts and concerns keep me up. I know this happens to a lot of people, but my concerns probably don't qualify as "NORMAL." For example, most people would probably be concerned knowing there are people with guns. My concern is that someone might just take their guns away...
Hot-button issue across the country - Gun Control! You probably guessed my standpoint just from that last paragraph, but before you shoot down my position (hehehehe... gun humor!), take a moment to hear out my thoughts on this crucial issue.
Lock and Load!
The way I chose to look at this issue is by taking a glance at the history of our nation. Why do we even have the second amendment to begin with? What were the issues facing our fledgling country that compelled our founding fathers to allow these rights to exist?
I learned that there were many legitimate reasons for allowing Americans to possess their own firearms. Here's what they seemed to boil down to:
- Defeat invaders (British)
- Made it possible to form a militia (If needed to fight the British)
- Dissuade tyrannical governments from taking power (British AND American)
- Personal protection (From other people with guns!)
- Supress insurrection (Crazy people loyal to Britain)
One of the greatest reasoning behind granting the right to bear arms was so that the Colonies could muster a defensive force against the inevitable war against the British. Nowadays, our "Well regulated militia" is the Army, Navy, Marines, and National Guard. They do protect our borders. As so police men and masked vigilantes (not so often those last ones...).
So, the question MUST be asked: Do any of these reasons still apply to our society today?
Well... we don't have to worry TOO much about the British attacking. We already have a strong military (some say TOO strong...). We have other means readily available to suppress insurrectionists and traitors.
I would say that there are only two reasons still applicable today that would warrant upholding the second amendment: Dissuading tyranny and personal protection. Let's explore the notion!
Tyranny is always persistent. It doesn't matter how many checks and balances we put in place, people in power will always find a way to obtain more power. It's only a matter of time before someone decides to take the presidency a little too far. The price of freedom is perpetual vigilance from threats both foreign and domestic! Sometimes the greatest threat to our freedom comes from within.
If the majority of people agreed to give up the right to bear arms, then we could be opening a door down the road to massive tyranny imposing itself through the American Government. I know! It's a long shot right? The government telling us what to do, how to work, how much money we can make, what we can and can't eat, where to go for health care... Maybe not so much of a stretch after all...
If (and that's a BIG if) the government ever did get out of hand, our founding fathers wanted to give us the opportunity to fight back. At least it would make it a bit more difficult for the government to take over its people. I mean, we can't exactly get on another Mayflower and try this whole thing over again. Right? Probably a good enough reason alone is to keep the government in check. Like a last defense type of thing.
Then there's the self defense issue. Do we still have unsafe neighborhoods and people committing violent acts? Yes. Yes, we do. But are guns really necessary in order to protect ourselves? I mean, we have a WHOLE lot of non-lethal options: Tasers, pepper spray, socks with rolls of quarters in them, bricks in purses, phasers, plastic light sabers, attack pigeons... The list really goes on and on for effective close range weapons that aren't likely to kill an attacker.
And my personal position on self defense is that I wouldn't want a gun in my home. But you need to understand where I'm coming from with that. See, I have had the experience of being robbed at gun point. I have trained heavily in the martial arts. I know EXACTLY what to do if someone breaks into my home and is armed. I don't own a gun, because that would be largely ineffective for that situation. Someone breaks into my house at night, they're going to round a corner to come face to face with a razor sharp KATANA! Silent, elegant, but very messy...
My point is that non-lethal weapons are a GREAT advantage for the person who wants a great personal defense from up-close attackers. If you're grabbed or snuck up on, these weapons, and others, are great for SHORT RANGE situations.
But, if I were in a large room, outdoors, in a restaurant, anyplace where an attacker were from 20-50 feet away... well, even my 3 foot blade of slicing steel would be ineffective at that distance. Guns are ideal for stopping crazy people with guns in real life situations where the death toll can climb quickly. I dare say that the only time you'd need a gun for personal protection is when you're outside your own home.
There you have it. Those two reasons alone convince (my mind at least) that the second amendment should continue unimpeded. This is the futile thought - That making a LAW would possibly STOP a lawBREAKER. Laws don't protect us from people with guns, it just makes it simpler to punish them IF we catch them alive...
If you happen to have a favorite meme on this Gun Control issue, please share it in the comment section!
PEW PEW PEW!
New Year Resolutions
It's that time again! A whole bunch of calendars get thrown away, people make outrageous commitments to get in shape, half the civilized world gets trashed and then decides to play with fireworks (a brilliant combination). Of course, it's New Years! That time of resurgent hope and optimism that enables people to live rich, fulfilling lives complete with healthy changes... until February 2nd hits and then all bets are off.
Who knows why this happens? Maybe our resolve is scared away by the ground hog's shadow or something ridiculous like that. Or, it could be that it takes more than a moment's decision to impact our lives with any lasting benefit.
Don't get me wrong, resolutions are a great thing. Everyone should practice the introspection of their lives and see clearly where they could (and should) improve. People have the common resolve to be healthy, get into shape, stop smoking, be more adventurous, etc... But what most people lack is the staying power to see these changes through to the end of the next year and beyond.
Well, my resolutions aren't going to fail this year. I have a systematic plan. It's all about baby steps!
By the end of the year, I will be able to do 365 of any of these exercises:
-Push-ups
-Sit-ups
-Squats
-Pull-ups
-Jumping jacks
How am I going to get there? Easily! I will start by adding ONE extra rep each day. Today, one push-up. Tomorrow, two. And so on and so forth until I am Hulk-like by the end of the year.
Insane life goals are so much easier when you take it one step at a time. Sure, I'd love to just do the power 90 and do something hyper intense and see results quickly, but I think it's better to grow into something. Something intense may make an impact on my life, but I want transformation. I want to BECOME fit and not just experience it for a while. I want there to be a consistency in what I do. (Imagine being able to do 365 of each of these exercises EVERY day!)
I know, being fit is cliche... but that's one thing I want. I DO have another resolution, but this one needs your help:
I want my internet postings to actually make me some spending cash!
Something that I had discovered the other day; did you know that blogs and YouTube will PAY you if you have enough views or people clicking on ads? I thought that was just a whole bunch of nothing. Empty promises. But I checked on how much my blog has made in the past 2 years of its existence and I was shocked to find that I had accrued a stellar $1.90! Yes... that's not even enough for a coffee at Starbucks. Yes, that's a few pennies every month... BUT it gave me hope that maybe, just MAYBE I could turn this blog into something that enriches lives AND my wallet.
Same with YouTube. I decided that I must make use of the media available to me and attempt to make an impact. With views comes advertisements. And with advertisements come cash in my hand. Cash I can use to do more cool things with! (And maybe it would mean I could stop selling my blood on the side!)
So, you see; we can help each other. The more you share, the more you view, the more you comment, the more I'll be encouraged and motivated to bring better and better things to the internet table. You can be entertained, and I can have a means of having pocket money that doesn't involve pouring out my body's liquids.
I know this is probably a deal with the devil concept here that no one will take me up on, but if your resolution is to be more adventurous or just a better person, then I'm sure you can help!
What is your resolution? Share in the comments BELOW!
Who knows why this happens? Maybe our resolve is scared away by the ground hog's shadow or something ridiculous like that. Or, it could be that it takes more than a moment's decision to impact our lives with any lasting benefit.
Don't get me wrong, resolutions are a great thing. Everyone should practice the introspection of their lives and see clearly where they could (and should) improve. People have the common resolve to be healthy, get into shape, stop smoking, be more adventurous, etc... But what most people lack is the staying power to see these changes through to the end of the next year and beyond.
Well, my resolutions aren't going to fail this year. I have a systematic plan. It's all about baby steps!
By the end of the year, I will be able to do 365 of any of these exercises:
-Push-ups
-Sit-ups
-Squats
-Pull-ups
-Jumping jacks
How am I going to get there? Easily! I will start by adding ONE extra rep each day. Today, one push-up. Tomorrow, two. And so on and so forth until I am Hulk-like by the end of the year.
Insane life goals are so much easier when you take it one step at a time. Sure, I'd love to just do the power 90 and do something hyper intense and see results quickly, but I think it's better to grow into something. Something intense may make an impact on my life, but I want transformation. I want to BECOME fit and not just experience it for a while. I want there to be a consistency in what I do. (Imagine being able to do 365 of each of these exercises EVERY day!)
I know, being fit is cliche... but that's one thing I want. I DO have another resolution, but this one needs your help:
I want my internet postings to actually make me some spending cash!
Something that I had discovered the other day; did you know that blogs and YouTube will PAY you if you have enough views or people clicking on ads? I thought that was just a whole bunch of nothing. Empty promises. But I checked on how much my blog has made in the past 2 years of its existence and I was shocked to find that I had accrued a stellar $1.90! Yes... that's not even enough for a coffee at Starbucks. Yes, that's a few pennies every month... BUT it gave me hope that maybe, just MAYBE I could turn this blog into something that enriches lives AND my wallet.
Same with YouTube. I decided that I must make use of the media available to me and attempt to make an impact. With views comes advertisements. And with advertisements come cash in my hand. Cash I can use to do more cool things with! (And maybe it would mean I could stop selling my blood on the side!)
So, you see; we can help each other. The more you share, the more you view, the more you comment, the more I'll be encouraged and motivated to bring better and better things to the internet table. You can be entertained, and I can have a means of having pocket money that doesn't involve pouring out my body's liquids.
I know this is probably a deal with the devil concept here that no one will take me up on, but if your resolution is to be more adventurous or just a better person, then I'm sure you can help!
What is your resolution? Share in the comments BELOW!
Friday, December 28, 2012
E-motive
It's nearing 2am and I'm wide awake. Assisted by some coffee, I'm witnessing the graveyard shift at my local Starbucks. Why? Simply put, I can't sleep. Why? Even simpler, too much on my mind. What? Well... you're just full of questions tonight, aren't you?! Well, blogging tends to be my emotional outlet, so let's see what comes out.
The holidays are such a wondrous time. So much anticipation and deeply-rooted significance with these occasions. And yet, amidst the joy and cheer, there always seems to be something gnawing at the legs that cause this happiness to crumble into a mess of shattered pieces. Perhaps it's just the overwhelming expectations of joy and well being, maybe it's just the natural bathos back into normal life, or maybe it's part of the Mayan Calendar Curse that bursts bubbles... probably not that last one.
But whatever the reason, the holidays (as wonderful and amazing as they are) leave me feeling just a tad blue when they're over. The contrast of togetherness and family time yields to loneliness and mundane monotony plays its full course in just a matter of days. The cycle of smiles and frowns, like the moon, keeps on a predictable pattern. The joy of Christmas turns into melancholy emptiness. Somehow this continues year after year.
Again, I can only speculate as to why. Is it the natural let down after such high hopes and fluttering holiday emotions? Is it only me (or my family) who experience this phenomenon? If it's more of a universal occurrence, then perhaps there's something psychological to it.
Or maybe it's a deeper yearning for something greater than what the holidays have become? Let me venture a thought.
I know that this time of year has been regarded as a time of hope. Not only is it the celebrated memorium of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, being born in a stable in Bethlehem, but it's also the time of year when days begin to lengthen. The reign of darkness (both spiritually and physically) is nearing an end. The hope that these facts can evoke is marvelous.
But our society, namely corporations, have pushed our sentiments to the limit. Stores gear up for Christmas before the previous holiday is even past. I've begun to see Santas and candy canes pop up in stores before HALLOWEEN! Christmas music is pumped on the airwaves before the turkey is carved at Thanksgiving! By the time Christmas rolls around, there are many more Scrooges and Grinches than merry elves because too many of us simply tire of the motifs. The spirit of Christmas has been replicated ad nausium and so has lost its potency. Well... what do you expect?
This is sad... because I believe so many people WANT to experience Christmas. I mean, who honestly wants to BE SAD? I tend to think that people want happiness, joy, hope, the good emotions that come with the season. But these are not emotions that cannot be manufactured by Hallmark. The joy has to come from a more legitimate source.
I say, next year, let's shorten the season. Ignore the holiday up until the week before. Sure, if only a few people do it, the world won't change overnight... but if more and more begin to resist the tradition of commercialization, then eventually there can be an impact! Who knows, maybe the joy of the season will return when we don't experience the emotional burnout from the constant expectations of cheeriness.
Just my two cents (depreciated for inflation). Maybe now I can rest. Thanks for reading! Happy New Year!
The holidays are such a wondrous time. So much anticipation and deeply-rooted significance with these occasions. And yet, amidst the joy and cheer, there always seems to be something gnawing at the legs that cause this happiness to crumble into a mess of shattered pieces. Perhaps it's just the overwhelming expectations of joy and well being, maybe it's just the natural bathos back into normal life, or maybe it's part of the Mayan Calendar Curse that bursts bubbles... probably not that last one.
But whatever the reason, the holidays (as wonderful and amazing as they are) leave me feeling just a tad blue when they're over. The contrast of togetherness and family time yields to loneliness and mundane monotony plays its full course in just a matter of days. The cycle of smiles and frowns, like the moon, keeps on a predictable pattern. The joy of Christmas turns into melancholy emptiness. Somehow this continues year after year.
Again, I can only speculate as to why. Is it the natural let down after such high hopes and fluttering holiday emotions? Is it only me (or my family) who experience this phenomenon? If it's more of a universal occurrence, then perhaps there's something psychological to it.
Or maybe it's a deeper yearning for something greater than what the holidays have become? Let me venture a thought.
I know that this time of year has been regarded as a time of hope. Not only is it the celebrated memorium of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, being born in a stable in Bethlehem, but it's also the time of year when days begin to lengthen. The reign of darkness (both spiritually and physically) is nearing an end. The hope that these facts can evoke is marvelous.
But our society, namely corporations, have pushed our sentiments to the limit. Stores gear up for Christmas before the previous holiday is even past. I've begun to see Santas and candy canes pop up in stores before HALLOWEEN! Christmas music is pumped on the airwaves before the turkey is carved at Thanksgiving! By the time Christmas rolls around, there are many more Scrooges and Grinches than merry elves because too many of us simply tire of the motifs. The spirit of Christmas has been replicated ad nausium and so has lost its potency. Well... what do you expect?
This is sad... because I believe so many people WANT to experience Christmas. I mean, who honestly wants to BE SAD? I tend to think that people want happiness, joy, hope, the good emotions that come with the season. But these are not emotions that cannot be manufactured by Hallmark. The joy has to come from a more legitimate source.
I say, next year, let's shorten the season. Ignore the holiday up until the week before. Sure, if only a few people do it, the world won't change overnight... but if more and more begin to resist the tradition of commercialization, then eventually there can be an impact! Who knows, maybe the joy of the season will return when we don't experience the emotional burnout from the constant expectations of cheeriness.
Just my two cents (depreciated for inflation). Maybe now I can rest. Thanks for reading! Happy New Year!
Thursday, October 11, 2012
Hallowed
It's October. Normally I don't go around announcing the name of the months like some sort of calendar, but this month is different. Every child in the US knows what comes at the end of October. It approaches with ever-gaining momentum as candy pours into stores and is bought up by savvy consumers. It's a celebration marked with costumes, candy, and carved pumpkins.
Of course I'm talking about Halloween. It's a hot-button holiday. The Christian community denounces it by striking the fear of God into kids which only adds to the ambiance for the rest of society who cannot see any spiritual implications from All Hallow's Eve. These two sides feed into each other. The fear that the Church throws out regarding Halloween is soaked up by those who enjoy it, which just makes the Church try harder... Perhaps a new approach to Halloween is necessary?
It's been widely accepted that Halloween finds its roots in pagan superstition. The belief is that the barrier between this realm and the spiritual realm are at their weakest, so the souls that walk this world have a chance to speak before moving on. The costumes and masks sprang up as a way to fool these spirits into not taking any revenge on someone unrecognized.
Pretty spooky, also pretty lame as far as superstitions go. Why atheists don't attack Halloween is perplexing. Seems it'd be right up their alley. Haven't heard a word on it yet... but whatever.
Even so, the Church did adopt this holiday and celebrated it for quite a while. All Saints Day, being November 1st, was a time to commemorate those passed and to honor the saints. Many of the superstitions from the pagan rituals were maintained, but it's hard to escape any and all influence from a reclaimed holiday.
Our dates for Christmas, Easter and St. Valentine's Day are a few examples of holidays reclaimed from pagan/secular influences. Even with a solid amount of Christian emphasis, these holidays retain a great deal of their secular influences alongside the spiritual significance.
Halloween, however, seems to be one holiday that Christians just couldn't keep a hold on... Instead of attempting another takeover of a secular holiday (as the Church HAS done in the past with a good deal of success) the Church seems to be content to disavow the holiday altogether. Ignore the decorations popping up in the neighborhood and relegating any participants with disdain and disapproval.
If you talk with any Pastor for an extended amount of time on the subject of Halloween, you will inevitably hear passages like "Do not have even the appearance of evil." OR "Be in the world, not of the world."
However, we do a great disservice to the world by not engaging it. We think that opposition or pointing out the negatives will somehow persuade the masses that Halloween is terrible and scary. We indulge those who maintain that Halloween is for seances, devil worship, animal sacrifices and summoning spirits. Instead of shifting focus to something productive, the Church has fallen into the same mindset that the world has propagated and has, incorrectly, decided to battle on demonic ground...
The novel approach would be to shift Halloween back to honoring those who have passed, dispelling the superstitious notions of spiritism and by utilizing the holiday for Christ.
Think about this: At no other time in history has our culture been SO preoccupied with the "dead" things. Vampires, witches, zombies and a whole litany of other macabre are at the forefront of our culture. Even history is being brought into this fascination with Abraham Lincoln - VAMPIRE HUNTER! Seriously, we must acknowledge this fascination and realize what our role is supposed to be as Christians.
As Christians, we have abdicated our role of concern. The world seems so much more concerned with the dead than we are. This should not be. Yes, our focus is life. Yes, we are promised eternal life, that is what we strive for, that is what we know. BUT, our MISSION is to seek out the lost, to be a light in this world. IN THIS WORLD, we are to be more concerned with the dead - those lost to sin.
Suggesting a new approach to Halloween does not come lightly. I've been mulling this over for years. I cannot wrap my mind around the accepted approach of denouncing Halloween. I cannot comprehend the reasoning behind separating ourselves from the world on a holiday that could make a POSITIVE impact if the positive message of Christianity were poured INTO it.
The WHOLE point of Christ dying was to TRANSFORM the dead, sinful creature of man into a LIVING witness for Christ. Why have we failed Halloween, Church? Why have we failed to engage culture on the forefront? Are we too scared of the decorations?
Boldly, we must pour in the light and love of Christ in ALL situations. The opportunity for transformation is too rich to pass up. Let's rethink our approach to this day. (It's just as superstitious to imagine that dressing up and giving out candy equates to demon worship...)
Of course I'm talking about Halloween. It's a hot-button holiday. The Christian community denounces it by striking the fear of God into kids which only adds to the ambiance for the rest of society who cannot see any spiritual implications from All Hallow's Eve. These two sides feed into each other. The fear that the Church throws out regarding Halloween is soaked up by those who enjoy it, which just makes the Church try harder... Perhaps a new approach to Halloween is necessary?
It's been widely accepted that Halloween finds its roots in pagan superstition. The belief is that the barrier between this realm and the spiritual realm are at their weakest, so the souls that walk this world have a chance to speak before moving on. The costumes and masks sprang up as a way to fool these spirits into not taking any revenge on someone unrecognized.
Pretty spooky, also pretty lame as far as superstitions go. Why atheists don't attack Halloween is perplexing. Seems it'd be right up their alley. Haven't heard a word on it yet... but whatever.
Even so, the Church did adopt this holiday and celebrated it for quite a while. All Saints Day, being November 1st, was a time to commemorate those passed and to honor the saints. Many of the superstitions from the pagan rituals were maintained, but it's hard to escape any and all influence from a reclaimed holiday.
Our dates for Christmas, Easter and St. Valentine's Day are a few examples of holidays reclaimed from pagan/secular influences. Even with a solid amount of Christian emphasis, these holidays retain a great deal of their secular influences alongside the spiritual significance.
Halloween, however, seems to be one holiday that Christians just couldn't keep a hold on... Instead of attempting another takeover of a secular holiday (as the Church HAS done in the past with a good deal of success) the Church seems to be content to disavow the holiday altogether. Ignore the decorations popping up in the neighborhood and relegating any participants with disdain and disapproval.
If you talk with any Pastor for an extended amount of time on the subject of Halloween, you will inevitably hear passages like "Do not have even the appearance of evil." OR "Be in the world, not of the world."
However, we do a great disservice to the world by not engaging it. We think that opposition or pointing out the negatives will somehow persuade the masses that Halloween is terrible and scary. We indulge those who maintain that Halloween is for seances, devil worship, animal sacrifices and summoning spirits. Instead of shifting focus to something productive, the Church has fallen into the same mindset that the world has propagated and has, incorrectly, decided to battle on demonic ground...
The novel approach would be to shift Halloween back to honoring those who have passed, dispelling the superstitious notions of spiritism and by utilizing the holiday for Christ.
Think about this: At no other time in history has our culture been SO preoccupied with the "dead" things. Vampires, witches, zombies and a whole litany of other macabre are at the forefront of our culture. Even history is being brought into this fascination with Abraham Lincoln - VAMPIRE HUNTER! Seriously, we must acknowledge this fascination and realize what our role is supposed to be as Christians.
As Christians, we have abdicated our role of concern. The world seems so much more concerned with the dead than we are. This should not be. Yes, our focus is life. Yes, we are promised eternal life, that is what we strive for, that is what we know. BUT, our MISSION is to seek out the lost, to be a light in this world. IN THIS WORLD, we are to be more concerned with the dead - those lost to sin.
Suggesting a new approach to Halloween does not come lightly. I've been mulling this over for years. I cannot wrap my mind around the accepted approach of denouncing Halloween. I cannot comprehend the reasoning behind separating ourselves from the world on a holiday that could make a POSITIVE impact if the positive message of Christianity were poured INTO it.
The WHOLE point of Christ dying was to TRANSFORM the dead, sinful creature of man into a LIVING witness for Christ. Why have we failed Halloween, Church? Why have we failed to engage culture on the forefront? Are we too scared of the decorations?
Boldly, we must pour in the light and love of Christ in ALL situations. The opportunity for transformation is too rich to pass up. Let's rethink our approach to this day. (It's just as superstitious to imagine that dressing up and giving out candy equates to demon worship...)
Thursday, September 13, 2012
A Tale of Three Topics
Greetings, readers! My absence had gone virtually unnoticed until a close family member mentioned that I've been neglecting my blog... SO here I am BACK again and I have been given 3 obscure blogging topics to cover in this Comeback Special blog post.
Now, since there are three topics, you may decide to ration these exceptional thoughts throughout your day. I suggest bookmarking this page. OR, even better, just keep the browser open on your laptop/smartphone/iPad or whatever. OR, if you won't be near a computer, print my blog out and staple it to your pants. That's the smartest way.
1. Performance Enhancing Drugs in the Workplace
We're not talking about COFFEE here. We're talking the good stuff. The stuff that's already "illegal" but still used in the sports world. C'mon, if professional athletes can make good use of drugs to progress their careers, why can't the the rest of us?
Let's be honest - at first, this sounds like a GREAT idea. Imagine an office where the mail guy runs 20MPH and can throw mail over 200 yards. Think about a staff that could answer phones, withstand brutal meetings all day and still be able to unload the office supply truck without the aid of dollies and hand carts.
Imagine just being able to type faster than 30 words per minute! (I just googled and learned that 40wpm is considered average... now I feel slow)
Sounds like a super productive work environment, right? Just a few performance enhancing cocktails to go with the doughnuts and you have yourself a thriving hyper-competitive business.
But think about it; the job market is already saturated with inexperienced college grads who are having a tough time making use of their (VERY) expensive education. Thousands fail to jump into the workplace because there aren't enough jobs to fit their years of training.
Do we really want to make the workplace MORE competitive? Do we really want to make it MORE difficult for a poor college student with zero experience to obtain an entry level position with a company? Well, if everyone IN the workplace is nearing superhuman capabilities, that's precisely what would happen.
The job market would be completely run by the few elite, highest performing, enhanced workers while the plain college kids suffer in unending misery. This would ultimately yield a collapse of civilization and result in our next topic...
2. Comparing Socialism and Zombies
At first glance, you would think these two things have NOTHING in common. However, nothing could be further from the truth. With the threat of impending social collapse due to steroid abuse in the workplace, it's only a matter of time before one of these events take place. Here's a point-by-point comparison and how to prepare.
My sister is already in the R&D portion of creating the Borg. While she endeavors on this eventuality I'll butter up the public so that her creation can be accepted by the masses. Here's my reasons why the Borg would benefit society:
Hope you enjoyed this blog. Also... hope you didn't read it all at once. That's a bit of a dose of CRAZY!
Now, since there are three topics, you may decide to ration these exceptional thoughts throughout your day. I suggest bookmarking this page. OR, even better, just keep the browser open on your laptop/smartphone/iPad or whatever. OR, if you won't be near a computer, print my blog out and staple it to your pants. That's the smartest way.
1. Performance Enhancing Drugs in the Workplace
We're not talking about COFFEE here. We're talking the good stuff. The stuff that's already "illegal" but still used in the sports world. C'mon, if professional athletes can make good use of drugs to progress their careers, why can't the the rest of us?
Let's be honest - at first, this sounds like a GREAT idea. Imagine an office where the mail guy runs 20MPH and can throw mail over 200 yards. Think about a staff that could answer phones, withstand brutal meetings all day and still be able to unload the office supply truck without the aid of dollies and hand carts.
Imagine just being able to type faster than 30 words per minute! (I just googled and learned that 40wpm is considered average... now I feel slow)
Sounds like a super productive work environment, right? Just a few performance enhancing cocktails to go with the doughnuts and you have yourself a thriving hyper-competitive business.
But think about it; the job market is already saturated with inexperienced college grads who are having a tough time making use of their (VERY) expensive education. Thousands fail to jump into the workplace because there aren't enough jobs to fit their years of training.
Do we really want to make the workplace MORE competitive? Do we really want to make it MORE difficult for a poor college student with zero experience to obtain an entry level position with a company? Well, if everyone IN the workplace is nearing superhuman capabilities, that's precisely what would happen.
The job market would be completely run by the few elite, highest performing, enhanced workers while the plain college kids suffer in unending misery. This would ultimately yield a collapse of civilization and result in our next topic...
2. Comparing Socialism and Zombies
At first glance, you would think these two things have NOTHING in common. However, nothing could be further from the truth. With the threat of impending social collapse due to steroid abuse in the workplace, it's only a matter of time before one of these events take place. Here's a point-by-point comparison and how to prepare.
- Both seek to destroy free thought
Socialism and zombies both aim at the same weakness - the brain. Zombies tend to devour human brains (that's where the highest concentration of fats are) while socialists simply stifle ANY thought or expression contrary to (insert current dictator here)'s wishes or desires. The socialist numbs the brain with propaganda and mind-altering mantras. The zombie numbs the brain with rancid botulism foaming from its mouth...
The way to fight against zombies and socialist mind control is to USE your head. DON'T go out where zombies are - DUH! And don't let some socialist sway you with fancy arguments about the people's rights. It sounds like social justice, but give a warped individual power over you and you forfeit your individual rights (NEVER trade your responsibilities as a human being for pleasure offered by the Devil), freedom of thought and expression being among the first to be ripped from your cold, dead, zombie hands... - Hordes
The same thing that is horrifyingly true of cockroaches is true for these two groups - If you find one, thousands are nearby...
Zombies tend to propagate in groups because they turn from civilization to undead hungry, brain suckers. Socialists gather in groups due to similar means.
In all seriousness, socialism exists for the sole purpose of making more socialists. The weak build their living off the backs of the strong. Those who work have their earnings ripped from them and it's redistributed to the poor, lazy and those who fancy themselves "in charge." It's tyranny reborn.
Combating each group is, again, the same tactic - single them out. You cannot take on an entire zombie horde. Every comic book, movie, and poorly done webisode shows the most effective way to survive a zombie horde is to bottle-neck them and single them out one by one! You can do the same thing for socialists; get them away from the chanting mobs and challenge their logic and lines of thought until they crack and see the errors of their ways.
*Note, it is almost as difficult to turn a socialist back into a human as it is to turn a zombie back into a human... - PersistenceIt doesn't matter what you throw at zombies, they will still persist until you wipe them out with nuclear force. Same goes for socialists.
Ummm... if the solution didn't seem clear from the description, you have to use nuclear force with either problem.
My sister is already in the R&D portion of creating the Borg. While she endeavors on this eventuality I'll butter up the public so that her creation can be accepted by the masses. Here's my reasons why the Borg would benefit society:
- They could wipe out our zombie/socialist problem
- We could use them as slave labor
- They could build the Enterprise and research warp coils
- Learning would be a thing of the past! We could just connect to the hive mind and download all known information (kinda like on the Matrix, but faster)
- The iPhone would FINALLY have 4G speeds
- They make better doctors - HMO costs CUT!
- Resistance would be futile
- The world could stop worrying about currency since everything was done by the Borg
- With no currency, we could ALL just enjoy life through moral betterment and soul searching
- Everyday would feel like Halloween
- There'd be no need for violence (unless futile resistance was made)
- Bunnies
- War would be at an end
- Peace in the middle east
- Efficiency in the workplace would go up 10 million percent.
- Did I mention - Resistance is futile?
Hope you enjoyed this blog. Also... hope you didn't read it all at once. That's a bit of a dose of CRAZY!
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