Hi everyone (aka my two beloved readers),
I'm sorry a new post has been such a long time coming, but procrastination is just so easy, and gets easier with time. :)
I have learned a ton of stuff about myself, about life, and about God doing this blog over this last year, more than in the previous two decades, easily.
One of the key things I've learned about myself is that my ego and my ignorance are still way too big. I've done some reading over the last few months from some of our founding fathers, such as Thomas Paine. Turns out, my personal epiphany and all of the wonderful ideas I felt I needed to get the world to focus on were already shared, centuries ago. My ideas, even Goddism itself, were founded and believed in by wiser men than me during America's infancy. While they went with the Latin root for God and called the idea Deism, the focus on God is exactly the same. Deism, in essence, is knowing there is a God based on using our reason and examining the world and nature around us. Goddism = Deism in every possible way. Who knew?
This wouldn't be the first time I came up with un-researched ideas I thought were brilliant, just to find out they were old news: I did the same thing in graduate school when I wrote a 30-page research proposal and annotated bibliography for my thesis on anthropocentric development, just to be told by my committee chair that my idea was already old hat. It was tough to toss that one in the Lessons Learned pile and start over from scratch. But I did, and I will again.
Not to say doing this blog this last year has been a waste of time. If nothing else, it has helped me focus on God and living a better, fuller life, although I would also like to think it has helped others think about God more and find greater appreciation for God's wonderful and innumerable gifts.
So that's the humble pie from this entry's title, but what's with "going into the basement" you may ask? Although I haven't listened to his talk show in a few years, it used to be something Jim Rome said when he went on vacation. It's an expression that meant that he was going to a place to get leaner, tougher, and to get his focus back and then return better than ever.
I will be closing this blog, until at least this Fall, as this Summer will be crazy busy. I may consider moving my blog to a site with more traffic, but I will post any news of that if and when it occurs. I envision a different kind of website when I return, one with more fun, more activities, more audience participation and contributors, more pictures, more writings from other people, and, of course, more celebration of God.
For now, I leave you with only good and joyous thoughts, and a few reminders (you know how I am):
- Stay focused on God and doing good things for yourself as well as others
- Remember all evil stems from selfishness, so stay alert to it (both yours and others')
- Enjoy nature as often and as deeply as you can (it's pretty dang impressive art)
- Live with passion and joy
- Don't sweat the small stuff, for real
- Thank God constantly
- Breathe deeply
- Be the first to smile
That should get you to Fall. I'll get back to more pontificating then. :)
God is great!
p.s. If you want to learn more about Deism, here are a few websites to check out:
http://moderndeism.com/index.html
http://deism.com/
http://www.positivedeism.com/index.html
Monday, June 7, 2010
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
The Joy of Weeds and the Beauty in Beige
As the weather is turning more welcoming, I've been taking walks on some of my breaks at work. I went for a walk the other day around the park near my work. There was a gorgeous break in the rain, so I decided to take advantage of it. While I walked around the perimeter of the park, I soaked in all of God's gifts as fully as I could. It was lovely.
While walking around the park, I started to intently study all of the different weeds, as the park is largely unlandscaped. The more I studied them, the more the weeds became more interesting, and more beautiful. There was such an incredible variety of shapes, sizes, textures, colors, designs...and I also came to realize that they actually weren't all weeds at all, some of them were wild flowers. There were yellow ones, purple bell ones, fire red ones that looked like flames, delicate pink ones, and teeny blue ones. It was as if God were putting on a show of God's abilities in creating variety in nature. I was in awe.
While leaving the park, in complement to the beautiful sky blue, a beige bird flew overhead. It was in no hurry, and the wind was helping it takes its time towards its destination. It was about 10 feet over my head, so I was able to study it a bit; it was a gorgeous beige color, with darker and lighter shades highlighting its wings and its neck. I was actually overcome with how lovely it was, this specimen of bird I had never seen before. When it finally landed on the sidewalk 30 feet or so from me, I was actually able to identify what kind of bird it was. I laughed heartily to myself, as it was a simple pigeon!
I guess my point in all of this is that God is throwing at you an incredible array of creation. Simply open your eyes and heart fully, and embrace how much God loves you through the art God provides through nature. God is beautiful. Be well.
While walking around the park, I started to intently study all of the different weeds, as the park is largely unlandscaped. The more I studied them, the more the weeds became more interesting, and more beautiful. There was such an incredible variety of shapes, sizes, textures, colors, designs...and I also came to realize that they actually weren't all weeds at all, some of them were wild flowers. There were yellow ones, purple bell ones, fire red ones that looked like flames, delicate pink ones, and teeny blue ones. It was as if God were putting on a show of God's abilities in creating variety in nature. I was in awe.
While leaving the park, in complement to the beautiful sky blue, a beige bird flew overhead. It was in no hurry, and the wind was helping it takes its time towards its destination. It was about 10 feet over my head, so I was able to study it a bit; it was a gorgeous beige color, with darker and lighter shades highlighting its wings and its neck. I was actually overcome with how lovely it was, this specimen of bird I had never seen before. When it finally landed on the sidewalk 30 feet or so from me, I was actually able to identify what kind of bird it was. I laughed heartily to myself, as it was a simple pigeon!
I guess my point in all of this is that God is throwing at you an incredible array of creation. Simply open your eyes and heart fully, and embrace how much God loves you through the art God provides through nature. God is beautiful. Be well.
Thursday, April 15, 2010
Asking God "Why"
I spend a lot of time--too much, for sure--pondering the mysteries of God. It just fascinates the heck out of me how all of this, i.e. all of creation, came into being. How was the universe created? How could everything, as big as billions of galaxies, possibly come from a single point in space and time? How big is it, really? How far off is science in understanding even the basics of Your works? Is there any life of any form out there, or are we THAT unique? Beyond all of these mechanical questions, however, my greatest question has always been "why?" Why do we even exist at all? I have been asking this of God for many years, always expecting, or even demanding an answer, as selfish as I know that sounds. But God finally answered, but with a strong request.
First, the request...lighten up! I hear this quite a bit from God, but God, unfortunately, has to continually remind me. I'm getting there, slowly but surely.
But when I heard the answer to why, my scientific brain took issue, hence the request to lighten up. The answer: there doesn't need to be an answer. God is love, and God loves us beyond any fathomable ability we have to understand that kind of love. It is beyond the maximum capacity of logic or reason or quantifiable definition. Love needs no reason. The answer to "why"...because God loves us.
So relax, lighten up, and just appreciate as fully as you can the beautiful gifts of life, the universe, and everything with which you were blessed. Sure, continue to puzzle out the mechanics for mental exercise, but don't forget that the actual answer doesn't lie with equations or theorems; the answer lies with the quacks of a line of ducklings swimming behind their mother on a misty pond, it lies with the joyful giggle of a child being tickled by his adoring parent, it lies in the perfection of a Spring lily, it lies in feeling the sweet ocean breeze while listening to the entrancing rhythm of the surf with your eyes closed. It lies with heroic acts of bravery and in random acts of kindness and in heart-felt smiles. And it lies with remembering that God is the source of it all.
Thanks be to God.
First, the request...lighten up! I hear this quite a bit from God, but God, unfortunately, has to continually remind me. I'm getting there, slowly but surely.
But when I heard the answer to why, my scientific brain took issue, hence the request to lighten up. The answer: there doesn't need to be an answer. God is love, and God loves us beyond any fathomable ability we have to understand that kind of love. It is beyond the maximum capacity of logic or reason or quantifiable definition. Love needs no reason. The answer to "why"...because God loves us.
So relax, lighten up, and just appreciate as fully as you can the beautiful gifts of life, the universe, and everything with which you were blessed. Sure, continue to puzzle out the mechanics for mental exercise, but don't forget that the actual answer doesn't lie with equations or theorems; the answer lies with the quacks of a line of ducklings swimming behind their mother on a misty pond, it lies with the joyful giggle of a child being tickled by his adoring parent, it lies in the perfection of a Spring lily, it lies in feeling the sweet ocean breeze while listening to the entrancing rhythm of the surf with your eyes closed. It lies with heroic acts of bravery and in random acts of kindness and in heart-felt smiles. And it lies with remembering that God is the source of it all.
Thanks be to God.
Thursday, April 8, 2010
The Joy of Depression in Springtime
Sorry I've been away so long, friends. My work life has changed drastically recently, and as a result, my regular blog time has diminished greatly. But alas, where there's a will...
And, as both of you know, my two dear readers, I've been struggling with depression. I know I've been dumb, as it's practically sinful to be so glum when I've been blessed so severely, but as I have come to accept, some of my depression is due to actual bio-chemistry, as clinical depression runs in my family. But alas, I'm shaking off the doldrums pretty effectively as of late, and I have to give God thanks.
Spring has become my new favorite season. It used to be Fall, with it's cooler temps, great holidays, coziness, great color scheme, and wonderful family times. But Spring is the season of hope. And hope is everything.
Spring is when life thrives at its most accelerated pace. Spring is when flowers explode the landscape with gorgeous colors. It's when the trees begin to once again green the horizons (Yes, I did just use green as a verb). It's when you start hearing the birds, seeing the squirrels and other native wildlife, and feeling the life-affirming sun on your skin in earnest for the first time in many months. It's when blue skies begin showing up regularly. It's when the ground once again is a willing incubator of life. It is when hope is at its climax, giving one a true feeling that anything is possible.
Dramatic much? I grant you that I am, but regardless, I am thankful to God that hope is eternally present, even when it takes a new season for me to appreciate it. God is unfathomably generous and kind. God is love. Love be with you always.
And, as both of you know, my two dear readers, I've been struggling with depression. I know I've been dumb, as it's practically sinful to be so glum when I've been blessed so severely, but as I have come to accept, some of my depression is due to actual bio-chemistry, as clinical depression runs in my family. But alas, I'm shaking off the doldrums pretty effectively as of late, and I have to give God thanks.
Spring has become my new favorite season. It used to be Fall, with it's cooler temps, great holidays, coziness, great color scheme, and wonderful family times. But Spring is the season of hope. And hope is everything.
Spring is when life thrives at its most accelerated pace. Spring is when flowers explode the landscape with gorgeous colors. It's when the trees begin to once again green the horizons (Yes, I did just use green as a verb). It's when you start hearing the birds, seeing the squirrels and other native wildlife, and feeling the life-affirming sun on your skin in earnest for the first time in many months. It's when blue skies begin showing up regularly. It's when the ground once again is a willing incubator of life. It is when hope is at its climax, giving one a true feeling that anything is possible.
Dramatic much? I grant you that I am, but regardless, I am thankful to God that hope is eternally present, even when it takes a new season for me to appreciate it. God is unfathomably generous and kind. God is love. Love be with you always.
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Success Lies in the Effort
I've been dragging lately, as most of you know. I've been feeling rather shlumpy and down. The main reason there seem to be so many loose ends (that seem to be ganging up together to form a noose), is that I've lost my drive. I've given up, albeit most assuredly temporarily, on solving a lot of my problems. I seem to be just waiting for most of them to magically disappear...
Well, reality has the power to find its way into one's brain, no matter how long you try to push it out. I came across a quote (and you know how much I love my God-planted quotes) to reflect on, from Albert Einstein:
It's not that I'm so smart; it's just that I stay with problems longer.
The key to getting things done is always persistence. If one wants anything ever done, one obviously must make the effort, or start brewing up a magical potion (and unfortunately, I'm fresh out of eye of newt).
My point? Just keep trying. Baby step to success. Where there's a will, there is a way. The journey of a thousand miles blah blah blah. (Insert like inspirational quotes here.)
While fighting one's way out of the doldrums seems an impossible task when deep in them, a little effort goes a long way. One step leads to two and so on...Success is truly an inevitability as long as one makes a continuous effort, no matter how tiny.
p.s. This was a lecture to myself, but feel free to be inspired.
Well, reality has the power to find its way into one's brain, no matter how long you try to push it out. I came across a quote (and you know how much I love my God-planted quotes) to reflect on, from Albert Einstein:
It's not that I'm so smart; it's just that I stay with problems longer.
The key to getting things done is always persistence. If one wants anything ever done, one obviously must make the effort, or start brewing up a magical potion (and unfortunately, I'm fresh out of eye of newt).
My point? Just keep trying. Baby step to success. Where there's a will, there is a way. The journey of a thousand miles blah blah blah. (Insert like inspirational quotes here.)
While fighting one's way out of the doldrums seems an impossible task when deep in them, a little effort goes a long way. One step leads to two and so on...Success is truly an inevitability as long as one makes a continuous effort, no matter how tiny.
p.s. This was a lecture to myself, but feel free to be inspired.
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Why I Left Christianity
I was raised Christian, specifically Catholic. I went through the sacraments and tried my best to believe in the faith. I have always believed in God (because it is the only logical conclusion to the question of existence), it was just that I found so much fault with dogma.
The doctrines of Christianity are based in the Bible. The problem I have with the Bible is that its origins are so ambiguous and disjointed. The original texts of the gospels are long gone, with only second-hand copies barely themselves surviving the hands of time. And the Good Book itself, if one reads it honestly and objectively, is choppy in substance and chronology. I also take issue with the necessary assumption that all of the original authors were inspired by God. To believe whole-heartily in the Bible isn't a leap of faith, it's a leap of faith off of the leap of faith of others twice removed.
While doubt itself is the foundation of faith (otherwise, it would be fact), my relationship with God could not thrive while it rested in having to have faith in the faith others found in other people. The distance between myself and God felt too great, as well as overwhelmingly artificial and man-made.
This is not an attack on Christianity, as the same issues apply across the board with all organized religions. The human input which made these religions "organized" is the exact thing that creates so much distance between oneself and God, not only for myself, but for a lot of people. Traditions and rituals are wonderful and enriching, provided they truly provide a vehicle to feel closer to God, and are not simply followed because "that's just the way it is done" or "because the Bible says so."
If a faith cannot sufficiently field the question of "why," particularly when it comes to its own dogma and rituals, then there is a problem. If a faith fears the questions posed via the various fields of science, rather than embraces all that is science (as God is Truth, and science is simply the pursuit of truth), then there is a problem. If the majority of one's time is spent in insuring one is following all of the rules, rubrics, and traditions of a faith and not focused on the Joy that is God, there is most definitely a problem.
Am I against organized religions? Absolutely not. The above are just problems I had with them personally and why they could not work for me with the kind of relationship I want with God. I adore all good people of all faiths who try to live God-centered lives. I am extremely happy for those who can find deep and meaningful connections with God through organized religions. Faith is always a personal journey; sometimes your path parallels the path of others and sometimes it does not. My path does not, which is why I left Christianity. God be with you on your journey, no matter your path to God.
The doctrines of Christianity are based in the Bible. The problem I have with the Bible is that its origins are so ambiguous and disjointed. The original texts of the gospels are long gone, with only second-hand copies barely themselves surviving the hands of time. And the Good Book itself, if one reads it honestly and objectively, is choppy in substance and chronology. I also take issue with the necessary assumption that all of the original authors were inspired by God. To believe whole-heartily in the Bible isn't a leap of faith, it's a leap of faith off of the leap of faith of others twice removed.
While doubt itself is the foundation of faith (otherwise, it would be fact), my relationship with God could not thrive while it rested in having to have faith in the faith others found in other people. The distance between myself and God felt too great, as well as overwhelmingly artificial and man-made.
This is not an attack on Christianity, as the same issues apply across the board with all organized religions. The human input which made these religions "organized" is the exact thing that creates so much distance between oneself and God, not only for myself, but for a lot of people. Traditions and rituals are wonderful and enriching, provided they truly provide a vehicle to feel closer to God, and are not simply followed because "that's just the way it is done" or "because the Bible says so."
If a faith cannot sufficiently field the question of "why," particularly when it comes to its own dogma and rituals, then there is a problem. If a faith fears the questions posed via the various fields of science, rather than embraces all that is science (as God is Truth, and science is simply the pursuit of truth), then there is a problem. If the majority of one's time is spent in insuring one is following all of the rules, rubrics, and traditions of a faith and not focused on the Joy that is God, there is most definitely a problem.
Am I against organized religions? Absolutely not. The above are just problems I had with them personally and why they could not work for me with the kind of relationship I want with God. I adore all good people of all faiths who try to live God-centered lives. I am extremely happy for those who can find deep and meaningful connections with God through organized religions. Faith is always a personal journey; sometimes your path parallels the path of others and sometimes it does not. My path does not, which is why I left Christianity. God be with you on your journey, no matter your path to God.
Thursday, March 11, 2010
In the Face of Maliciousness
My blog was out of commission the last couple days because it was under attack by what I initially believed was a direct hack. Turns out, the hosting site's gadgets are vulnerable to being hacked, and I happened to have had a ton of them on my blog. After removing all of the affected gadgets, my blog seems to be back up and running.
So what is the motivation of people who do things like this? What causes someone to be malicious, especially to innocent strangers? General bitterness? Anger? Frustration? Boredom? A dark, unexamined conscience? I suppose the answer is between the perpetrator and God.
I would love it if this world didn't have people who were motivated by evil, yet I suppose without them, the rest of us wouldn't look so good. I kid, of course, although I think there is some truth in that there is purpose in having those kinds of people around. The rest of us learn wonderful lessons in patience, prayer, and forgiveness, as well as important lessons in self-defense and survival.
All things have reason. It is just rather unfortunate that most of the time the reasons only reveal themselves in hindsight. This can be quite frustrating while in the middle of dealing with difficult situations or people. I know this is true for me, and is yet another lesson in faith. I must remember to trust in God at all times, not just when things are going smoothly. Sometimes you've got to cross rocky and dangerous terrain to reach a beautiful and peaceful meadow. It is infinitely better to have a difficult path to your goal than no path at all. I must learn to embrace this truth: God always provides the path one needs.
So what is the motivation of people who do things like this? What causes someone to be malicious, especially to innocent strangers? General bitterness? Anger? Frustration? Boredom? A dark, unexamined conscience? I suppose the answer is between the perpetrator and God.
I would love it if this world didn't have people who were motivated by evil, yet I suppose without them, the rest of us wouldn't look so good. I kid, of course, although I think there is some truth in that there is purpose in having those kinds of people around. The rest of us learn wonderful lessons in patience, prayer, and forgiveness, as well as important lessons in self-defense and survival.
All things have reason. It is just rather unfortunate that most of the time the reasons only reveal themselves in hindsight. This can be quite frustrating while in the middle of dealing with difficult situations or people. I know this is true for me, and is yet another lesson in faith. I must remember to trust in God at all times, not just when things are going smoothly. Sometimes you've got to cross rocky and dangerous terrain to reach a beautiful and peaceful meadow. It is infinitely better to have a difficult path to your goal than no path at all. I must learn to embrace this truth: God always provides the path one needs.
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Shades of Gray and Other Life Lessons
As I have mentioned in previous blogs, I've been doing some serious examination of conscience. With God's insight, I have come to understand that one of the key goals of this life is to learn the lessons that God has designed for each of us individually.
While I have many, many things yet to learn, I am getting better at identifying the key lessons. I am thick headed, so I don't learn them quickly, but at least I can point them out in a line up.
For example, I know God has been trying to teach me about appreciating and living in the gray. I have had a tendency for as long as I've been born to view everything in black and white. Either something is all or it's none; either it's perfect or it's worthless; either it's beautiful or it's ugly, etc. What God has pointed out to me is that very little ever reaches either extreme. Life is nearly fully contained in the middle, in the gray. If you can't appreciate and embrace the gray, then you miss out on a ton of what it means to live. And I have.
But life ain't over 'til it's over, so as long as I'm around, I can learn these things, even if it's one tiny baby step at a time. (Too much change all at once, not unlike fire to Frankenstein, frightens and confuses me).
I have other personal lessons, too, which God wants me to grasp. Like about judging people and about being vulnerable, among a handful of others. God has our life lessons individually tailored for optimal growth and enlightenment. All we have to do is open our hearts and minds to what God is trying to teach us. Most certainly easier said than done in this busy, chaotic world, but a little quiet reflection goes a long ways. Best of luck to us all in graduating through life with honors.
While I have many, many things yet to learn, I am getting better at identifying the key lessons. I am thick headed, so I don't learn them quickly, but at least I can point them out in a line up.
For example, I know God has been trying to teach me about appreciating and living in the gray. I have had a tendency for as long as I've been born to view everything in black and white. Either something is all or it's none; either it's perfect or it's worthless; either it's beautiful or it's ugly, etc. What God has pointed out to me is that very little ever reaches either extreme. Life is nearly fully contained in the middle, in the gray. If you can't appreciate and embrace the gray, then you miss out on a ton of what it means to live. And I have.
But life ain't over 'til it's over, so as long as I'm around, I can learn these things, even if it's one tiny baby step at a time. (Too much change all at once, not unlike fire to Frankenstein, frightens and confuses me).
I have other personal lessons, too, which God wants me to grasp. Like about judging people and about being vulnerable, among a handful of others. God has our life lessons individually tailored for optimal growth and enlightenment. All we have to do is open our hearts and minds to what God is trying to teach us. Most certainly easier said than done in this busy, chaotic world, but a little quiet reflection goes a long ways. Best of luck to us all in graduating through life with honors.
Friday, March 5, 2010
Confucius and More Reflections of Self
I've been having to dig excruciatingly deep, as of late, in examining my soul. I spend a lot time ruing what is lacking in myself, and still expect perfection, even though I am fully aware I can never attain it (being human and all), hence the emotional distress and self-flagellation. If it weren't for my own torment, I'd have none at all, but I digress...I came across a quote from Confucius the other day, which was:
I want you to be everything that's you, deep at the center of your being.
It didn't sound like the vague inspirational quotes I am used to from Confucius, so I went and did some research, and verified that it was indeed a quote from him. But God has a great tendency with me to highlight, as if with a bright yellow highlighter, the things I need to pay attention to. In researching the above quote, I came across two others that I knew God wanted me to reflect on as well:
They must change who would be constant in happiness and wisdom.
...and...
Man who stand on hill with mouth open will wait long time for roast duck to drop in.
While these three quotes collectively don't seem to add up together, they actually meld perfectly to give me the exact counsel I have been needing. While I have come a tremendous ways towards being a much better person over the last year, God is definitely pointing me in the path of further growth, and that it is crucial for me to fully examine my heart and take steps in being everything I truly am, in my good and wonderful God-given nature. This is going to require change, actual effort, risk, and being fully honest with myself in all ways. God loves me, of this I am certain; I just have to learn to earnestly love myself. I still plan on changing the world for the better, but that change must first begin internally. God most definitely has a plan, I just have to open fully to it. And I will get there. God be with you, too, on your path.
I want you to be everything that's you, deep at the center of your being.
It didn't sound like the vague inspirational quotes I am used to from Confucius, so I went and did some research, and verified that it was indeed a quote from him. But God has a great tendency with me to highlight, as if with a bright yellow highlighter, the things I need to pay attention to. In researching the above quote, I came across two others that I knew God wanted me to reflect on as well:
They must change who would be constant in happiness and wisdom.
...and...
Man who stand on hill with mouth open will wait long time for roast duck to drop in.
While these three quotes collectively don't seem to add up together, they actually meld perfectly to give me the exact counsel I have been needing. While I have come a tremendous ways towards being a much better person over the last year, God is definitely pointing me in the path of further growth, and that it is crucial for me to fully examine my heart and take steps in being everything I truly am, in my good and wonderful God-given nature. This is going to require change, actual effort, risk, and being fully honest with myself in all ways. God loves me, of this I am certain; I just have to learn to earnestly love myself. I still plan on changing the world for the better, but that change must first begin internally. God most definitely has a plan, I just have to open fully to it. And I will get there. God be with you, too, on your path.
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
The Joy of True Friendship
Today is my bff's 40th burfday. HAPPY BIRTHDAY, BFF!!! Considering he is one of the two people who read this blog, I'm going to personalize this entry a bit by reflecting on what it has meant to have him in my life for the last 25 years.
My bff is the greatest guy I know. He is smart, kind, lives by his heart, and has love and compassion that dwarfs mine considerably. He has been a blessing a million times over and has come to my rescue in similar numbers. He has helped me move every time I have relocated around the state, which is MANY, and has been good-natured every time, even when I have dropped stuff on his feet. He is generous to a fault and incredibly patient with me as I have been a roller coaster of drama and issues over the years. Why he has stuck by me over these decades puzzles me, but it's best not to look a gift horse in the mouth. I just count my blessings from God, and he's most definitely among my most favorite.
And while 40 is generally considered a milestone of midlife, I would like to share some words from Albert Einstein with my dear, dear friend that reflect the true sentiment of aging:
People like you and I, though mortal of course like everyone else, do not grow old no matter how long we live...[We] never cease to stand like curious children before the great mystery into which we were born.
To have a friendship so enduring is one of the greatest joys in the life. I wish my bff at least 100 more birthdays, as you never know what God has in store. I love you. Buon compleanno, mio fratello! (Gotta start practicing your Italian :) )
My bff is the greatest guy I know. He is smart, kind, lives by his heart, and has love and compassion that dwarfs mine considerably. He has been a blessing a million times over and has come to my rescue in similar numbers. He has helped me move every time I have relocated around the state, which is MANY, and has been good-natured every time, even when I have dropped stuff on his feet. He is generous to a fault and incredibly patient with me as I have been a roller coaster of drama and issues over the years. Why he has stuck by me over these decades puzzles me, but it's best not to look a gift horse in the mouth. I just count my blessings from God, and he's most definitely among my most favorite.
And while 40 is generally considered a milestone of midlife, I would like to share some words from Albert Einstein with my dear, dear friend that reflect the true sentiment of aging:
People like you and I, though mortal of course like everyone else, do not grow old no matter how long we live...[We] never cease to stand like curious children before the great mystery into which we were born.
To have a friendship so enduring is one of the greatest joys in the life. I wish my bff at least 100 more birthdays, as you never know what God has in store. I love you. Buon compleanno, mio fratello! (Gotta start practicing your Italian :) )
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
A Reflection on Self
I was reading the recent Dear Colleague letter from my favorite cultural geographer/philosopher, Yi-Fu Tuan, when I came across something I knew God wanted me to reflect over:
All of us have felt at some stage in life that we lack something essential to happiness that others have–good looks, happy marriage, vocational success, and such like. George Santayana restores our equanimity by saying, “what we miss may be enjoyed or attained by someone else: why isn’t that just as good? And there is no regret, either, in the sense of wishing the past to return, or missing it: it is quite real enough as it is, there at its own date and place.”
I have been my own worst critic, as of late, as far as poor choices and living my life with so much still lacking. I have so many ideas and dreams of what would be wonderful and have been living as if my life is incomplete, like these missing things will finally make me whole and happy. It was not until I read Yi-Fu Tuan's letter that I realized that my perspective has been very selfish. Every single thing I long for--a loving spouse, some joyful children, a meaningful job, perhaps a vegetable garden that doesn't thrive on dying--are being fully enjoyed and appreciated my many other people, the world over. I should find great joy that the things I would find as wonderful blessings from God are exactly that, but for others. This way of thinking gives me great peace. And that's why God wanted me reflect on Tuan's letter. The blessings I long for have been bestowed, and cherished, by other people. And for the love of others, that brings me joy.
Finding contentment in "my" blessings being bestowed on others does not mean I give up and not strive for wonderfulness or not be open to God providing these same blessings to me, it just means I can finally allow myself to be happy and not stress over what I do not have. I am one step closer to living joyfully not having to beat myself up over what I have deemed as lacking in my life. God has blessed me a million different ways, in ways others long for. I indeed have an embarrassment of my own blessings. God is wise and generous. Be well.
All of us have felt at some stage in life that we lack something essential to happiness that others have–good looks, happy marriage, vocational success, and such like. George Santayana restores our equanimity by saying, “what we miss may be enjoyed or attained by someone else: why isn’t that just as good? And there is no regret, either, in the sense of wishing the past to return, or missing it: it is quite real enough as it is, there at its own date and place.”
I have been my own worst critic, as of late, as far as poor choices and living my life with so much still lacking. I have so many ideas and dreams of what would be wonderful and have been living as if my life is incomplete, like these missing things will finally make me whole and happy. It was not until I read Yi-Fu Tuan's letter that I realized that my perspective has been very selfish. Every single thing I long for--a loving spouse, some joyful children, a meaningful job, perhaps a vegetable garden that doesn't thrive on dying--are being fully enjoyed and appreciated my many other people, the world over. I should find great joy that the things I would find as wonderful blessings from God are exactly that, but for others. This way of thinking gives me great peace. And that's why God wanted me reflect on Tuan's letter. The blessings I long for have been bestowed, and cherished, by other people. And for the love of others, that brings me joy.
Finding contentment in "my" blessings being bestowed on others does not mean I give up and not strive for wonderfulness or not be open to God providing these same blessings to me, it just means I can finally allow myself to be happy and not stress over what I do not have. I am one step closer to living joyfully not having to beat myself up over what I have deemed as lacking in my life. God has blessed me a million different ways, in ways others long for. I indeed have an embarrassment of my own blessings. God is wise and generous. Be well.
Monday, February 22, 2010
Are You an Optimist or a Pessimist?
On my way to work this morning, I heard a siren. As it came into view, I saw that it was a fire truck, followed my an EMS truck. Something bad was going down, someone was obviously hurt...I began to pray, as I tend to do when I hear sirens.
I pray for the safety and recovery of the affected parties of the emergency, as well as the safety and well being of the emergency response teams. But this morning, when I was dwelling on the injured or possibly dead victims, God stepped in...
Why is it that you just dwell on the potential bad that has happened and not rejoice that help is on the way? It is ALWAYS a blessing to hear sirens, as it means those who do need help will be getting it very soon.
(Good morning, sir, this is your wake up call...)
I wasn't even aware that my thinking in this regard was so pessimistic until God pointed this out to me. I am now going to reflect even more over all of my thinking and actions to examine whether or not they come from a positive and optimistic place or someplace more dreary. My goal is to be full of joy and positivity at all times, so I truly appreciate this insight from God. God is so good and kind and generous! Be well, my friends, and always look towards the light.
I pray for the safety and recovery of the affected parties of the emergency, as well as the safety and well being of the emergency response teams. But this morning, when I was dwelling on the injured or possibly dead victims, God stepped in...
Why is it that you just dwell on the potential bad that has happened and not rejoice that help is on the way? It is ALWAYS a blessing to hear sirens, as it means those who do need help will be getting it very soon.
(Good morning, sir, this is your wake up call...)
I wasn't even aware that my thinking in this regard was so pessimistic until God pointed this out to me. I am now going to reflect even more over all of my thinking and actions to examine whether or not they come from a positive and optimistic place or someplace more dreary. My goal is to be full of joy and positivity at all times, so I truly appreciate this insight from God. God is so good and kind and generous! Be well, my friends, and always look towards the light.
Thursday, February 18, 2010
Always Have a Goal
One of my dear friends from work is retiring next week, and when people ask her what she's going to be doing with all her new found free time, she replies, "I haven't thought about it."
I'm a little concerned for her. Even though she's a rather dynamic person, and even quite spiritual, I worry that she's not going to have something driving her day-to-day life, like a day job has to this point. I fear she's not going to have the motivation to thrive.
When I went through the Investment in Excellence training last summer at my work, one of the points they made is that people without goals die rather rapidly. You always must be living with something you are thriving to reach, which is why, in great part, people who retire and people who are widow(er)s die so soon after the event.
Life is a journey, a path. And if you don't have a destination you would like to reach, then your path has no direction, no meaning. Use your imagination and dare to dream big. And try to make it happen. Because you never know...
I am blessed with an abundance of things to look forward to. I have some great trips coming this summer and years of surprises to come. I am especially looking forward to our next family cruise, even if it's years away. It's a beautiful and fun way to spend time with loved ones. It is joy.
Make plans. Not just any plans, though. Make plans that fill you with excitement and joy and drive you to a giddy and gleeful place. Thrive like crazy.
I'm a little concerned for her. Even though she's a rather dynamic person, and even quite spiritual, I worry that she's not going to have something driving her day-to-day life, like a day job has to this point. I fear she's not going to have the motivation to thrive.
When I went through the Investment in Excellence training last summer at my work, one of the points they made is that people without goals die rather rapidly. You always must be living with something you are thriving to reach, which is why, in great part, people who retire and people who are widow(er)s die so soon after the event.
Life is a journey, a path. And if you don't have a destination you would like to reach, then your path has no direction, no meaning. Use your imagination and dare to dream big. And try to make it happen. Because you never know...
I am blessed with an abundance of things to look forward to. I have some great trips coming this summer and years of surprises to come. I am especially looking forward to our next family cruise, even if it's years away. It's a beautiful and fun way to spend time with loved ones. It is joy.
Make plans. Not just any plans, though. Make plans that fill you with excitement and joy and drive you to a giddy and gleeful place. Thrive like crazy.
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
Salvation Lies in Humility
As y'all know full well, I'm pretty much a perpetual roller coaster of emotion; there are times I'm so full of joy and happiness, I actually fear my heart will burst, and then there are times I'm so down and full of despair, I fear the candle of hope has been permanently snuffed. But that's the nature of our humanity, in large measure, I suppose.
I was praying earlier today, feeling remorseful and quite low for being such a repetitive failure at maintaining my best effort of staying on the good and righteous path, when God stepped in. God tends to save me from the downward spirals at the exact moment I need salvation. Funny, how that works, but I digress...God let me know it is in the fact that I truly feel unworthy of God's infinite love and mercy which makes me worthy. Huh? (Yeah, I was confused, too.) God shared with me that God adores those who are humble, yet try and strive and yearn to do right and good things and stumble down the path towards unity with God. Because it is only through humility that one can accept that there is always room for improvement. It is only through humility that one can appreciate one's position in relation to God. It is only through humility that one can truly have faith.
I know there are many people in all walks of faith who have completely convinced themselves that God is 100% behind them. Although, that kind of arrogance only leads to stunted personal growth and/or harm to others, as displayed by religious extremists.
I know I have been like that. But as I've become older and wiser, I have come to realize that it was self-righteousness, not God-centered righteousness. I have come to realize that my salvation--as well as the salvation of all humanity--is entirely up to God. God willing, we will all be welcomed into union with God after we pass from this world. God willing indeed.
I was praying earlier today, feeling remorseful and quite low for being such a repetitive failure at maintaining my best effort of staying on the good and righteous path, when God stepped in. God tends to save me from the downward spirals at the exact moment I need salvation. Funny, how that works, but I digress...God let me know it is in the fact that I truly feel unworthy of God's infinite love and mercy which makes me worthy. Huh? (Yeah, I was confused, too.) God shared with me that God adores those who are humble, yet try and strive and yearn to do right and good things and stumble down the path towards unity with God. Because it is only through humility that one can accept that there is always room for improvement. It is only through humility that one can appreciate one's position in relation to God. It is only through humility that one can truly have faith.
I know there are many people in all walks of faith who have completely convinced themselves that God is 100% behind them. Although, that kind of arrogance only leads to stunted personal growth and/or harm to others, as displayed by religious extremists.
I know I have been like that. But as I've become older and wiser, I have come to realize that it was self-righteousness, not God-centered righteousness. I have come to realize that my salvation--as well as the salvation of all humanity--is entirely up to God. God willing, we will all be welcomed into union with God after we pass from this world. God willing indeed.
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Do You Have Impeccable Integrity?
I do, at times. Although sometimes not. My goal is to live the rest of my many decades (God willing) with impeccable integrity. But you may be asking: what does this even mean?
Impeccable integrity is essentially living without shame. Oh sure, lots of people live without shame nowadays in this rather hedonistic society, but that is not living without shame, that's living with the ability to ignore or suppress shame or being arrogant enough not to bother caring about one's wrongdoings. There is a BIG difference.
I'm not here to cast stones, as my house is most certainly made of single-pane glass, I'm just here to try to get people to reflect a bit about their honor (myself definitely included).
Sure, most of the time, I am a good guy. I keep my word, try to be kind and generous to all, and never try to harm others intentionally. But does that mean I have impeccable integrity? Hardly. I have lots of shame, most of which surrounds being wasteful (especially with my time). Shame is what God has implanted in each of us to keep us in line with God's will. Shame is your conscience's way of letting you know you're off track with God.
I will be most definitely working on my issues and will get back to having impeccable integrity. The best way to get there is to stay focused on God and reflect on whether or not God would be happy with one's activities. But to bring a more tangible visualization to the table, just think that there are cameras every single place you go and that everything you say and do is being televised to your family, friends, and all of humanity. If you don't have shame at that point, then your integrity is most definitely impeccable. God, please give us all the strength to lead perfectly honorable lives. Remember: only with God is this possible.
Impeccable integrity is essentially living without shame. Oh sure, lots of people live without shame nowadays in this rather hedonistic society, but that is not living without shame, that's living with the ability to ignore or suppress shame or being arrogant enough not to bother caring about one's wrongdoings. There is a BIG difference.
I'm not here to cast stones, as my house is most certainly made of single-pane glass, I'm just here to try to get people to reflect a bit about their honor (myself definitely included).
Sure, most of the time, I am a good guy. I keep my word, try to be kind and generous to all, and never try to harm others intentionally. But does that mean I have impeccable integrity? Hardly. I have lots of shame, most of which surrounds being wasteful (especially with my time). Shame is what God has implanted in each of us to keep us in line with God's will. Shame is your conscience's way of letting you know you're off track with God.
I will be most definitely working on my issues and will get back to having impeccable integrity. The best way to get there is to stay focused on God and reflect on whether or not God would be happy with one's activities. But to bring a more tangible visualization to the table, just think that there are cameras every single place you go and that everything you say and do is being televised to your family, friends, and all of humanity. If you don't have shame at that point, then your integrity is most definitely impeccable. God, please give us all the strength to lead perfectly honorable lives. Remember: only with God is this possible.
Monday, February 8, 2010
Life is Wabi-Sabi
I can probably speak for most of humanity by saying that I would love it if everything were perfect. I would love it if people never got sick, suffered, or died. I would love it if everyone had enough food, clothing, and shelter. I would love it if everyone treated one another with kindness and deep respect. I would love it if things didn't break down and need repair. I'm pretty sure we would all love such a utopia.
But alas, that's more a description of the afterlife than of our reality. Our world is much tougher to navigate, much rougher around the edges (as well as in the center). Which got me thinking about wabi-sabi...
In its simplest form, wabi-sabi is the Japanese art of finding beauty in imperfection, incomplete, and impermanent. It embraces the profundity in nature, and of embracing the natural cycle of birth, growth, decay, and death. It tends to be simple, slow, and uncluttered. And it reveres authenticity above all. Wabi-sabi is much more the idea of a flea market, rather than a warehouse store; more about aged wood than Pergo; hand-made paper over glass. It celebrates cracks and crevices and all the other marks that time, weather, and loving use leave behind. It reminds us that we are all simply transient beings on this planet and that our bodies as well as the material world around us are in the process of returning to the dust from which we came. Through wabi-sabi, we learn to embrace liver spots, rust, and frayed edges, and the march of time they represent. Wabi-sabi doesn't simply accept these things as the inevitabilities of life, but embrace them as true badges of honor of a life fully lived.
I've had a long history of being an all-or-nothing type of person. If I can't do something perfectly, why bother at all, I used to think. Thanks to God for helping me mature and realize that living a "perfect" life is quite literally impossible. Sure, striving to do one's best is very important, but equally important is not beating oneself up for not reaching "perfect," as only God can be such. Life is a perpetual battle between being knocked down, and dusting oneself off. As Confucius put it:
"Our greatest glory is not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall."
May God continue to give us all the strength to do so. Yes, life can be agonizingly painful and difficult, but turning to God gives one the hope that getting up again after we do fall will be well worth it.
But alas, that's more a description of the afterlife than of our reality. Our world is much tougher to navigate, much rougher around the edges (as well as in the center). Which got me thinking about wabi-sabi...
In its simplest form, wabi-sabi is the Japanese art of finding beauty in imperfection, incomplete, and impermanent. It embraces the profundity in nature, and of embracing the natural cycle of birth, growth, decay, and death. It tends to be simple, slow, and uncluttered. And it reveres authenticity above all. Wabi-sabi is much more the idea of a flea market, rather than a warehouse store; more about aged wood than Pergo; hand-made paper over glass. It celebrates cracks and crevices and all the other marks that time, weather, and loving use leave behind. It reminds us that we are all simply transient beings on this planet and that our bodies as well as the material world around us are in the process of returning to the dust from which we came. Through wabi-sabi, we learn to embrace liver spots, rust, and frayed edges, and the march of time they represent. Wabi-sabi doesn't simply accept these things as the inevitabilities of life, but embrace them as true badges of honor of a life fully lived.
I've had a long history of being an all-or-nothing type of person. If I can't do something perfectly, why bother at all, I used to think. Thanks to God for helping me mature and realize that living a "perfect" life is quite literally impossible. Sure, striving to do one's best is very important, but equally important is not beating oneself up for not reaching "perfect," as only God can be such. Life is a perpetual battle between being knocked down, and dusting oneself off. As Confucius put it:
"Our greatest glory is not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall."
May God continue to give us all the strength to do so. Yes, life can be agonizingly painful and difficult, but turning to God gives one the hope that getting up again after we do fall will be well worth it.
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
Understanding Money
My present financial issues have got me thinking quite a bit about money lately. And, as my modus operandi, I tend to delve into nuance. Money, as important as it is to all people around the globe, is a truly funny thing, if you think about it.
Money is composed of a mix of paper bills and coins. The paper bills aren't actually paper, per se, but a mix of cotton and linen (mostly). Coins are made from metals of various types, including nickel, zinc, steel, copper, etc.
Back in the olden days, the currency you held in your hand had true and real value. Coins were made of more precious metals, like gold and silver, and carried their worth with them, which allowed for full and immediate transfer of value. Paper currency used to represent real gold (or in some cases, silver) in vaults in the care of the federal government, each bill essentially being a certificate of ownership of that amount of gold (or silver) in said vaults. In 1971, however, the connection between the tangible commodities and the currency was permanently severed by Richard Nixon. Now, we are on what is called the fiat system, in which currency is intrinsically useless, however still serves as a medium of exchange.
In its true essence, currency, i.e. money, is useless. You can't eat it. You can't wear it (effectively, anyways). You can't use it for shelter. I suppose you could burn it to stay warm, but would need a great deal of it to do this effectively.
Money is simply a theoretical creation of humans. It only has value because society has collectively deemed it so. Money, in its bare utilitarian nature, is a means to an end. The sole benefit of money is that it can be used to obtain goods and services.
My wise Grandma used to tell us kids, "Money is the root of all evil." This common saying is actually a misquote from the Bible, from the book of Timothy (6:10):
For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.
It is not money that is the root of all evil, as this quote states, it is actually selfishness. Selfishness, such as monetary greed, is where all sin originates. [The Revelation from God (http://www.scribd.com/doc/18001638/Revelation-from-God) discusses selfishness and sin further.]
Being driven to accumulate significant amounts of money is not bad, in itself, provided it is not for selfish reasons. Some seek money to provide for loved ones. Some seek money to not stress about ones daily needs. Some seek money to share and help and provide for those who cannot do so for themselves or have needs they themselves cannot meet. Money, when used properly, is a good and beautiful thing.
As I have been going through a financial crunch since my roommate moved out, I have become much more acutely aware of the difference between "want" and "need." I have cut back and reduced my expenditures in many ways and realize I wasted a lot of money on frivolous things. God always has a reason, and I have learned that frugality is actually the way God would like us all to live. That is not to say not to have money, but just not to be so wasteful with what we do have. This lesson has truly been a blessing, as I am a better person now because of it.
Money is composed of a mix of paper bills and coins. The paper bills aren't actually paper, per se, but a mix of cotton and linen (mostly). Coins are made from metals of various types, including nickel, zinc, steel, copper, etc.
Back in the olden days, the currency you held in your hand had true and real value. Coins were made of more precious metals, like gold and silver, and carried their worth with them, which allowed for full and immediate transfer of value. Paper currency used to represent real gold (or in some cases, silver) in vaults in the care of the federal government, each bill essentially being a certificate of ownership of that amount of gold (or silver) in said vaults. In 1971, however, the connection between the tangible commodities and the currency was permanently severed by Richard Nixon. Now, we are on what is called the fiat system, in which currency is intrinsically useless, however still serves as a medium of exchange.
In its true essence, currency, i.e. money, is useless. You can't eat it. You can't wear it (effectively, anyways). You can't use it for shelter. I suppose you could burn it to stay warm, but would need a great deal of it to do this effectively.
Money is simply a theoretical creation of humans. It only has value because society has collectively deemed it so. Money, in its bare utilitarian nature, is a means to an end. The sole benefit of money is that it can be used to obtain goods and services.
My wise Grandma used to tell us kids, "Money is the root of all evil." This common saying is actually a misquote from the Bible, from the book of Timothy (6:10):
For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.
It is not money that is the root of all evil, as this quote states, it is actually selfishness. Selfishness, such as monetary greed, is where all sin originates. [The Revelation from God (http://www.scribd.com/doc/18001638/Revelation-from-God) discusses selfishness and sin further.]
Being driven to accumulate significant amounts of money is not bad, in itself, provided it is not for selfish reasons. Some seek money to provide for loved ones. Some seek money to not stress about ones daily needs. Some seek money to share and help and provide for those who cannot do so for themselves or have needs they themselves cannot meet. Money, when used properly, is a good and beautiful thing.
As I have been going through a financial crunch since my roommate moved out, I have become much more acutely aware of the difference between "want" and "need." I have cut back and reduced my expenditures in many ways and realize I wasted a lot of money on frivolous things. God always has a reason, and I have learned that frugality is actually the way God would like us all to live. That is not to say not to have money, but just not to be so wasteful with what we do have. This lesson has truly been a blessing, as I am a better person now because of it.
Monday, February 1, 2010
Reflecting on Wisdom from Harper Lee
Although she only published one novel, To Kill a Mockingbird, which won the Pulitzer Prize in 1961 (and is one of my most favorite books), Harper Lee has shared with the world some very poignant and earthy insight and wisdom. I came across a quote from her the other day, which, as usual, seems as if it were a quote God picked out specifically for me to grow from. The quote is:
"Before I can live with other folks I've got to live with myself. The one thing that doesn't abide by majority rule is a person's conscience."
As regular readers of my blog are aware, my roommate moved out early December, under most unpleasant circumstances. Since then, having my surgery, and Christmas, and New Years, and recovery almost completely behind me, I now have a golden opportunity to get fully re-centered on God and reflect on reconciling my thoughts, words, and deeds with my conscience, where God is fully present. I am a good person, sure, but I could be so much better. And that's why God put this quote before me. Before I can live with someone else, be it roommate or spouse, I must get myself in proper order. And besides, I can always live more fully, do more, live more beautifully, and do so much more to spread the joy of God.
Like the quote above reiterates, one's conscience isn't a democracy or subject to what is moral according to a popularity contest; it is one's real and direct connection with God, who defines goodness itself. Not to get into a political discussion, but there are quite a few things that society has deemed legal, and by default considers "moral," even though I am fully aware that God is not in accord. But I digress (yet again)...
No one can hide from God, as God lies in wait perpetually in our consciences. Sure, we can attempt to ignore God's presence, but eventually you either give in, give up, or go insane fighting it. I choose to give in to God.
["Mockingbirds don't do one thing but make music for us to enjoy. They don't eat up people's gardens, don't nest in corncribs, they don't do one thing but sing their hearts out for us. That's why it's a sin to kill a mockingbird." This quote, from To Kill a Mockingbird, is so soulfully beautiful, I couldn't resist posting it.]
"Before I can live with other folks I've got to live with myself. The one thing that doesn't abide by majority rule is a person's conscience."
As regular readers of my blog are aware, my roommate moved out early December, under most unpleasant circumstances. Since then, having my surgery, and Christmas, and New Years, and recovery almost completely behind me, I now have a golden opportunity to get fully re-centered on God and reflect on reconciling my thoughts, words, and deeds with my conscience, where God is fully present. I am a good person, sure, but I could be so much better. And that's why God put this quote before me. Before I can live with someone else, be it roommate or spouse, I must get myself in proper order. And besides, I can always live more fully, do more, live more beautifully, and do so much more to spread the joy of God.
Like the quote above reiterates, one's conscience isn't a democracy or subject to what is moral according to a popularity contest; it is one's real and direct connection with God, who defines goodness itself. Not to get into a political discussion, but there are quite a few things that society has deemed legal, and by default considers "moral," even though I am fully aware that God is not in accord. But I digress (yet again)...
No one can hide from God, as God lies in wait perpetually in our consciences. Sure, we can attempt to ignore God's presence, but eventually you either give in, give up, or go insane fighting it. I choose to give in to God.
["Mockingbirds don't do one thing but make music for us to enjoy. They don't eat up people's gardens, don't nest in corncribs, they don't do one thing but sing their hearts out for us. That's why it's a sin to kill a mockingbird." This quote, from To Kill a Mockingbird, is so soulfully beautiful, I couldn't resist posting it.]
Friday, January 29, 2010
Why I Don't Watch Television News
It's not to say I never watch the news, as when a big story hits, it's the easiest way to get instant images of what's going on. Beyond the extreme stories, however, I avoid television news shows altogether. Why?
While it is very important to stay abreast of what's going on in the world, all information can be found on the internet at will. On the internet, you can pick and choose the stories you want to know more about, and read whatever stories or watch whatever videos you please in reference. Television news is dead. They just haven't buried the corpse yet. First of all, it maintains a linear, captive audience. You are at the whims of the producers, with whatever political leanings or agendas they may have, as to what you are exposed to and in their timeframe. Second, the news channels in particular are on a 24-hour news cycle, which, although seemingly a good idea when they first came to broadcast, is actually a horrible idea. There is not enough significant news to fill 24 hours. Ever. Even when there is a major crisis or story, they will simply repeat the same information every 10 or 15 minutes. Tedious at best. And when there is not a significant headlining story, they are left to their own devices to create news, which general entails obsessive reporting over a random murder or car chase. Valuable information? Not in the slightest. Nothing good comes from this type of unhelpful voyeurism. I would love it if they would be more positive and really build community by encouraging positive involvement, but I digress...
In time, the news channels will eventually accept their own mortality and give over to the internet. But considering the ways of corporations and the money to be made, their network deaths will be slow and painful. For us all.
While it is very important to stay abreast of what's going on in the world, all information can be found on the internet at will. On the internet, you can pick and choose the stories you want to know more about, and read whatever stories or watch whatever videos you please in reference. Television news is dead. They just haven't buried the corpse yet. First of all, it maintains a linear, captive audience. You are at the whims of the producers, with whatever political leanings or agendas they may have, as to what you are exposed to and in their timeframe. Second, the news channels in particular are on a 24-hour news cycle, which, although seemingly a good idea when they first came to broadcast, is actually a horrible idea. There is not enough significant news to fill 24 hours. Ever. Even when there is a major crisis or story, they will simply repeat the same information every 10 or 15 minutes. Tedious at best. And when there is not a significant headlining story, they are left to their own devices to create news, which general entails obsessive reporting over a random murder or car chase. Valuable information? Not in the slightest. Nothing good comes from this type of unhelpful voyeurism. I would love it if they would be more positive and really build community by encouraging positive involvement, but I digress...
In time, the news channels will eventually accept their own mortality and give over to the internet. But considering the ways of corporations and the money to be made, their network deaths will be slow and painful. For us all.
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
The Art of Fog, Sunshine, and Cancer
During this morning's commute, I drove through quite a bit of fog. And it was beautiful. The sun was working its best to burn it off, and I could see the pale white disk of the sun beyond the misty, leafless trees. The silhouettes of the trees in the fog was like a gorgeous, dramatic painting. I thanked God for the art. It was truly lovely.
When I arrived at work and finally to my desk after a little catching up with co-workers, I looked out the windows. I was taken aback. The fog was completely gone and the sky was almost entirely blue, save a few clouds on the fringes. While I certainly don't suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder, the blue sky certainly perked me up. It always does. The sunshine and wonderful shades of blue are both at the same time peaceful and energizing. I also thanked God for this art. It was uplifting.
Yesterday, I had an appointment with the surgeon who removed the tumor during my surgery last month. The lab finally came back with a result: neuroendocrine neoplasm. All that means is that it was a growth at the junction of the hormonal and nervous systems. My surgeon said it was very isolated and fully removed, but they still don't know exactly what it is, as neuroendocrine neoplasm is just a very generalized term. Yes, it's was a cancerous growth, which is just cells growing unchecked, but my surgeon is going to have to take my case to the surgical panel for further consult, as my case is extremely unique. They have never seen anything like it. Leave it to me to make it as complicated as possible. On the plus side, I may end up having a disease named after me. How's that for a legacy? ;o)
I'm not fretting. Nor should the people who love and care about me. God has already given me solace and I know I will be fine. I got all of my panic, craziness, and weak faith out of my system when the tumor was initially found. But so much good has come from that freak out, which was truly necessary to get me to a much better place. And I am. It has been almost poetic in how I have gone through this and have become a better person for it. I have been blessed. While I wouldn't call cancer art, I would say that the lessons from it have been beautiful. Thanks be to God.
I indeed have been incredibly blessed, as I have comfort from God that I will be fine. All of my prayers and concerns, however, are still with my family, as several members are still dealing with their own serious medical issues. Your prayers would also be greatly appreciated. Please, God, heal them.
When I arrived at work and finally to my desk after a little catching up with co-workers, I looked out the windows. I was taken aback. The fog was completely gone and the sky was almost entirely blue, save a few clouds on the fringes. While I certainly don't suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder, the blue sky certainly perked me up. It always does. The sunshine and wonderful shades of blue are both at the same time peaceful and energizing. I also thanked God for this art. It was uplifting.
Yesterday, I had an appointment with the surgeon who removed the tumor during my surgery last month. The lab finally came back with a result: neuroendocrine neoplasm. All that means is that it was a growth at the junction of the hormonal and nervous systems. My surgeon said it was very isolated and fully removed, but they still don't know exactly what it is, as neuroendocrine neoplasm is just a very generalized term. Yes, it's was a cancerous growth, which is just cells growing unchecked, but my surgeon is going to have to take my case to the surgical panel for further consult, as my case is extremely unique. They have never seen anything like it. Leave it to me to make it as complicated as possible. On the plus side, I may end up having a disease named after me. How's that for a legacy? ;o)
I'm not fretting. Nor should the people who love and care about me. God has already given me solace and I know I will be fine. I got all of my panic, craziness, and weak faith out of my system when the tumor was initially found. But so much good has come from that freak out, which was truly necessary to get me to a much better place. And I am. It has been almost poetic in how I have gone through this and have become a better person for it. I have been blessed. While I wouldn't call cancer art, I would say that the lessons from it have been beautiful. Thanks be to God.
I indeed have been incredibly blessed, as I have comfort from God that I will be fine. All of my prayers and concerns, however, are still with my family, as several members are still dealing with their own serious medical issues. Your prayers would also be greatly appreciated. Please, God, heal them.
Monday, January 25, 2010
Remember the Starfish
I am sure you are aware of the old tale of the guy who encounters many thousands of starfish washed up on the beach and finds a child picking them up one-by-one and tossing them back into the sea. The guy essentially tells the child that his efforts didn't make a difference, as he couldn't possibly save them all. As the child picks up another starfish and tosses it back into the sea, he says, "I made a difference to that one."
Sure, it's a little cheesy, but it is truth: every little act of goodness does make a difference, even if it is only to one person. I have had a great delusion going on for quite a while in that I really thought I could save the world. I really saw with clarity through God that we need to care for and deeply love one another and cherish and protect this wonderful planet. I actually thought a utopia was possible, if people truly opened their hearts to God, and to one another.
Unfortunately, God has reminded me, that as long as there is free will, there will be plenty of people who choose selfishness--or even evil--over the good of others. As long as people have free will, some will always try to ruin the good, wholesome, and beautiful. This is an extremely tough pill to swallow, but it has finally been ingested.
So what to do now, considering a perfect planet is literally unattainable? Give up? Nope. While my efforts may not change the world as a whole, or even influence society in the least, every good and positive thing I do (which can be as simple as a smile and a pleasant greeting), every positive and God-centered message I put out may influence someone for the better. And that hope, as dim as it feels sometimes, is worth the tedious task of tossing starfish back into the sea. One by one.
Sure, it's a little cheesy, but it is truth: every little act of goodness does make a difference, even if it is only to one person. I have had a great delusion going on for quite a while in that I really thought I could save the world. I really saw with clarity through God that we need to care for and deeply love one another and cherish and protect this wonderful planet. I actually thought a utopia was possible, if people truly opened their hearts to God, and to one another.
Unfortunately, God has reminded me, that as long as there is free will, there will be plenty of people who choose selfishness--or even evil--over the good of others. As long as people have free will, some will always try to ruin the good, wholesome, and beautiful. This is an extremely tough pill to swallow, but it has finally been ingested.
So what to do now, considering a perfect planet is literally unattainable? Give up? Nope. While my efforts may not change the world as a whole, or even influence society in the least, every good and positive thing I do (which can be as simple as a smile and a pleasant greeting), every positive and God-centered message I put out may influence someone for the better. And that hope, as dim as it feels sometimes, is worth the tedious task of tossing starfish back into the sea. One by one.
Thursday, January 21, 2010
Living with Regrets
As a lifelong inept perfectionist, I have a long history of beating myself up over bad decisions and wrong choices. And I have plenty of them to lament.
My key issue regarding my regrets is with God. I know God can forgive anything, given one's desire to fully accept God's mercy, but I cannot forgive myself for some of the things I have done. I know I need to be able to, because if God can then I certainly should be able to, it's just some things in my past give me such shame, particularly those things that have involved hurting others, that I truly find it impossible. So how do I reconcile my inability to forgive myself with God's infinite mercy?
Prayer and reflection. I have spent a lot of time reflecting with God on this, and God has shared with me two things: 1.) I am a good person and am way too hard on myself (which in itself is hard to accept), and 2.) while I do not have to put my stamp of approval on my past, I must accept that through my bad choices, I have learned many important lessons and have become a much better person as a result. While I cannot erase the damage done, I can aid those I have hurt, and vow with my entire being to never repeat the sins of the past.
With this insight, I can be at peace with the past and live a life more closely with God's will for me. And that is overwhelmingly comforting.
My key issue regarding my regrets is with God. I know God can forgive anything, given one's desire to fully accept God's mercy, but I cannot forgive myself for some of the things I have done. I know I need to be able to, because if God can then I certainly should be able to, it's just some things in my past give me such shame, particularly those things that have involved hurting others, that I truly find it impossible. So how do I reconcile my inability to forgive myself with God's infinite mercy?
Prayer and reflection. I have spent a lot of time reflecting with God on this, and God has shared with me two things: 1.) I am a good person and am way too hard on myself (which in itself is hard to accept), and 2.) while I do not have to put my stamp of approval on my past, I must accept that through my bad choices, I have learned many important lessons and have become a much better person as a result. While I cannot erase the damage done, I can aid those I have hurt, and vow with my entire being to never repeat the sins of the past.
With this insight, I can be at peace with the past and live a life more closely with God's will for me. And that is overwhelmingly comforting.
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
The Importance of Faith
Ena Zizi was at a Roman Catholic prayer meeting when the 7.0 earthquake hit Haiti. She was trapped under the rubble for seven days with a broken leg and dislocated hip, lying near two dead people, until she was rescued yesterday by a Mexican disaster team.
How did she get through it? "I talked only to my boss, God," she said. "I didn't need any more humans."
Faith is indeed an incredibly powerful thing, not just for our salvation, but for our survival. The power of prayer has been responsible for countless medical miracles. And several recent studies have indicated that people who have a relationship with God live three years or more longer than non-believers.
How is your relationship with God? If you're reading this, then it could use improvement. As long as we are on this Earth, there is always room for improvement in growing our relationship with our creator. I know mine is in perpetual need of improvement.
How does one grow in faith? I'm going to share my plan, which hopefully can help you, too, if you are open to wanting a deeper connection with God:
1. Study - read all you can from all different faiths. There is so much wonderful wisdom and depth to be discovered across the religious spectrum. Just be sure to use your own discernment and wisdom (with God's help) in seeing what is true and what is essentially window dressing.
2. Visit - go to religious institutions that you find interesting. Talk with the leaders, as most will be extremely welcoming to respectful inquiries.
3. Discuss - find people who are interested in theology and philosophy. People you already know may surprise you with their insights.
4. Pray - this is obviously the most important thing one can do to build one's relationship with God. Prayer and reflection are crucial in really finding God's truth that is located within each and every one of us.
5. Listen - God is perpetually--and I mean it--speaking to each of us. It's all about developing our listening skills. God speaks to us through our consciences, for sure, but God also speaks to us through other people. Stay aware of this at all times. God also communicates volumes to us through nature, as it is a very real and direct connection to God.
I most definitely need to grow in faith, which became crystal clear during my recent health scare, although I'm aware it is a lifelong journey to develop as deep a relationship as possible with God. I pray you find great success in deepening your relationship with God as well.
If you have ideas or things to share, please post your comments below:
How did she get through it? "I talked only to my boss, God," she said. "I didn't need any more humans."
Faith is indeed an incredibly powerful thing, not just for our salvation, but for our survival. The power of prayer has been responsible for countless medical miracles. And several recent studies have indicated that people who have a relationship with God live three years or more longer than non-believers.
How is your relationship with God? If you're reading this, then it could use improvement. As long as we are on this Earth, there is always room for improvement in growing our relationship with our creator. I know mine is in perpetual need of improvement.
How does one grow in faith? I'm going to share my plan, which hopefully can help you, too, if you are open to wanting a deeper connection with God:
1. Study - read all you can from all different faiths. There is so much wonderful wisdom and depth to be discovered across the religious spectrum. Just be sure to use your own discernment and wisdom (with God's help) in seeing what is true and what is essentially window dressing.
2. Visit - go to religious institutions that you find interesting. Talk with the leaders, as most will be extremely welcoming to respectful inquiries.
3. Discuss - find people who are interested in theology and philosophy. People you already know may surprise you with their insights.
4. Pray - this is obviously the most important thing one can do to build one's relationship with God. Prayer and reflection are crucial in really finding God's truth that is located within each and every one of us.
5. Listen - God is perpetually--and I mean it--speaking to each of us. It's all about developing our listening skills. God speaks to us through our consciences, for sure, but God also speaks to us through other people. Stay aware of this at all times. God also communicates volumes to us through nature, as it is a very real and direct connection to God.
I most definitely need to grow in faith, which became crystal clear during my recent health scare, although I'm aware it is a lifelong journey to develop as deep a relationship as possible with God. I pray you find great success in deepening your relationship with God as well.
If you have ideas or things to share, please post your comments below:
Monday, January 18, 2010
Celebrating Martin Luther King, Jr.
It is quite easy, as the decades pass, to forget about how influential and important the work of Martin Luther King, Jr. was.
He was an activist and the prominent leader in the civil rights movement for blacks in the 1950s/1960s. His legacy was to greatly advance the progress of civil rights for black people, most notably in leading the 1955 Montgomery Bus Boycott, helping found the Southern Christian Leadership Conference in 1957, and spearheaded the 1963 March on Washington, where he delivered his "I Have a Dream" speech, which is one of the greatest, most stirring speeches in history. In 1964, he became the youngest person to ever received the Nobel Peace Prize for his work to end racial discrimination and segregation.
He definitely did great work and definitely changed American society for the better. It was difficult and scary work to do in the face of such bigotry and hatred, yet he took the huge risks to do what was morally right, even at the cost of his own life. He died a champion and hero of what is good and beautiful in humanity. Thank God for him.
He was an activist and the prominent leader in the civil rights movement for blacks in the 1950s/1960s. His legacy was to greatly advance the progress of civil rights for black people, most notably in leading the 1955 Montgomery Bus Boycott, helping found the Southern Christian Leadership Conference in 1957, and spearheaded the 1963 March on Washington, where he delivered his "I Have a Dream" speech, which is one of the greatest, most stirring speeches in history. In 1964, he became the youngest person to ever received the Nobel Peace Prize for his work to end racial discrimination and segregation.
He definitely did great work and definitely changed American society for the better. It was difficult and scary work to do in the face of such bigotry and hatred, yet he took the huge risks to do what was morally right, even at the cost of his own life. He died a champion and hero of what is good and beautiful in humanity. Thank God for him.
Friday, January 15, 2010
Lessons from the Earthquake in Haiti
I thank you all for your prayers and donations to the victims of the Haiti earthquake. Many tons of aid have already arrived and much more is still being shipped, but most of the Haitian people continue to go without food and water.
The reasons? The airport was severely damaged in the quake, and it has run out of fuel. There are no clear or safe passage ways to get the supplies to the people in Port-au-Prince, due to rubble and the country's long history of dangerous instability with militias. Equipment is desperately lacking to clear the roads and aid in rescuing those still trapped under rubble. The shipping harbor was also quite damaged. The electricity is out, which makes all efforts more difficult. Aid is pouring in, vessel after vessel, but it is just not getting to those in dire need. People will die because of this inefficiency.
Haiti's extreme poverty caused most buildings to be very poorly constructed, and thus, not earthquake-resistant, which caused an extremely high number of casualties. (Compare the 50,000-100,000 expected dead of this quake to the 63 dead in California's Loma Prieta earthquake of 1989). While the economy of the Western Hemisphere's poorest country is in the hands of their unfortunately inept government, there obviously was a serious lack of foresight in disaster planning, which, I suppose, goes back to their inept government. But you would think a Caribbean country that is hit often by hurricanes would have some semblance of a plan in place.
So in thinking about planning for disasters, I realized I don't have any in place for myself or my family. Do you? Do you know what to do if some large-scale disaster occurs, blocking all streets, cutting off electricity and communication? Do you have a reserve of survival supplies? Do you have the basic necessities in reserve to last through the wait for disaster relief? Do you have set meeting places for all of your loved ones to congregate?
While thinking about worst-case scenarios is not pleasant in the least, a little preparation could make the literal difference in your survival. Talk these issues over with loved ones and make plans. I don't suggest going overboard, as some did with Y2K preparations, but I do suggest you cover your bases. I know I'm going to.
On a slight tangent, I feel compelled to address something disgusting and disturbing said by televangelist Pat Robertson. He stated that Haiti deserved the wrath of God via this devastating earthquake. The reason:
"Something happened a long time ago in Haiti and people might not want to talk about. They were under the heel of the French, you know, Napoleon III and, whatever. And they got together and swore a pact to the devil. They said, 'We will serve you if you will get us free from the [French].' True story."
This statement is so obviously asinine, it doesn't even merit addressing, but it goes to show you what crazy, wealthy people will spout off when they delude themselves into thinking they can speak for God. Please pray for Pat Robertson's poor soul. And may God heal his mental illness.
The reasons? The airport was severely damaged in the quake, and it has run out of fuel. There are no clear or safe passage ways to get the supplies to the people in Port-au-Prince, due to rubble and the country's long history of dangerous instability with militias. Equipment is desperately lacking to clear the roads and aid in rescuing those still trapped under rubble. The shipping harbor was also quite damaged. The electricity is out, which makes all efforts more difficult. Aid is pouring in, vessel after vessel, but it is just not getting to those in dire need. People will die because of this inefficiency.
Haiti's extreme poverty caused most buildings to be very poorly constructed, and thus, not earthquake-resistant, which caused an extremely high number of casualties. (Compare the 50,000-100,000 expected dead of this quake to the 63 dead in California's Loma Prieta earthquake of 1989). While the economy of the Western Hemisphere's poorest country is in the hands of their unfortunately inept government, there obviously was a serious lack of foresight in disaster planning, which, I suppose, goes back to their inept government. But you would think a Caribbean country that is hit often by hurricanes would have some semblance of a plan in place.
So in thinking about planning for disasters, I realized I don't have any in place for myself or my family. Do you? Do you know what to do if some large-scale disaster occurs, blocking all streets, cutting off electricity and communication? Do you have a reserve of survival supplies? Do you have the basic necessities in reserve to last through the wait for disaster relief? Do you have set meeting places for all of your loved ones to congregate?
While thinking about worst-case scenarios is not pleasant in the least, a little preparation could make the literal difference in your survival. Talk these issues over with loved ones and make plans. I don't suggest going overboard, as some did with Y2K preparations, but I do suggest you cover your bases. I know I'm going to.
On a slight tangent, I feel compelled to address something disgusting and disturbing said by televangelist Pat Robertson. He stated that Haiti deserved the wrath of God via this devastating earthquake. The reason:
"Something happened a long time ago in Haiti and people might not want to talk about. They were under the heel of the French, you know, Napoleon III and, whatever. And they got together and swore a pact to the devil. They said, 'We will serve you if you will get us free from the [French].' True story."
This statement is so obviously asinine, it doesn't even merit addressing, but it goes to show you what crazy, wealthy people will spout off when they delude themselves into thinking they can speak for God. Please pray for Pat Robertson's poor soul. And may God heal his mental illness.
Thursday, January 14, 2010
God IS With You
Two blogs ago, I discussed the importance of slow, deep breathing. Well, that night, I put it into practice, and was very glad I did.
Through my recent surgery and recovery, I had felt pretty disconnected from God. Not that I wasn't praying and talking to God, but it just wasn't clicking. Part of it was the medication I was on, but part of it was just being generally glum, particularly because of the troubles my family has been facing.
Off the medication and finding my way back to center, I started my focused breathing the other day while I was praying. And then, click. I heard God speaking to me through my conscience so clearly, it gave me chills. God gave me both comfort and advice on things I've been dealing with and thinking about. It wasn't a stern lecture--although I certainly deserve one--it was just kind, helpful, and much welcomed insight and support.
This is just a reminder to all of us, including myself, to slow down and really focus on listening to God through your conscience, because God has a lot to share with you. God is wisdom.
p.s. Haiti still needs your prayers and help. Thank you.
Through my recent surgery and recovery, I had felt pretty disconnected from God. Not that I wasn't praying and talking to God, but it just wasn't clicking. Part of it was the medication I was on, but part of it was just being generally glum, particularly because of the troubles my family has been facing.
Off the medication and finding my way back to center, I started my focused breathing the other day while I was praying. And then, click. I heard God speaking to me through my conscience so clearly, it gave me chills. God gave me both comfort and advice on things I've been dealing with and thinking about. It wasn't a stern lecture--although I certainly deserve one--it was just kind, helpful, and much welcomed insight and support.
This is just a reminder to all of us, including myself, to slow down and really focus on listening to God through your conscience, because God has a lot to share with you. God is wisdom.
p.s. Haiti still needs your prayers and help. Thank you.
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Call for Prayers and Donations for Haiti!
As most of you have probably heard, Haiti's capital city, Port-au-Prince, was hit almost directly with a 7.0 magnitude earthquake yesterday afternoon. In the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere, shoddy construction is the norm. And in a city of over 2 million people, the devastation is mind-boggling vast: the death toll soaring over 100,000 is expected, as piles of bodies grow on every street; many, many people are still trapped under piles of rubble, waiting to be saved before it is too late, including many children underneath what used to be their schools; there have been so many thousands of people injured that there are not even remotely enough health professionals to treat them; many tens of thousands of people are now homeless, including many children, who are filling up makeshift orphanages as quickly as they are created; and those who survived are scrambling to find potable water and enough food to not perish in the aftermath. It is woefully grim, through and through.
Through the grace of God, the human family is intensely compassionate and cares for its own, and the spirit of generosity and love is pouring in from all corners of the globe, but much, much more is definitely immediately needed. I have listed some charitable organizations below (from msnbc). If you can afford to spare any money, please do so. You can even text a donation on your cell phone. But if not, at the very least, I beg you pray for the victims, especially all of those still trapped under the rubble, that they be rescued before it's too late, particularly the dear children. God be with Haiti as they deal with the worst catastrophe in their history.
Please contact the organizations below right away:
Action Against Hunger, 877-777-1420
American Red Cross, 800-733-2767
American Jewish World Service, 212-792-2900
AmeriCares, 800-486-4357
Beyond Borders, 866-424-8403
CARE, 800-521-2273
Catholic Relief Services, 800-736-3467
Childcare Worldwide, 800-553-2328
Direct Relief International, 805-964-4767
Doctors Without Borders, 888-392-0392
Feed My Starving Children, 763-504-2919
Food for the Poor, 800-427-9104
Friends of WFP, 866-929-1694
Haiti Children, 877-424-8454
Haiti Marycare, 203-675-4770
Haitian Health Foundation, 860-886-4357
Hope for Haiti, 239-434-7183
International Medical Corps, 800-481-4462
International Rescue Committee, 877-733-8433
International Relief Teams, 619-284-7979
Lutheran World Relief, 800-597-5972
Medical Teams International, 800-959-4325
Meds and Food for Kids, 314-420-1634
Mennonite Central Committee, 888-563-4676
Mercy Corps, 888-256-1900
Operation Blessing, 800-730-2537
Operation USA, 800-678-7255
Oxfam, 800-776-9326
Partners in Health, 617-432-5298
Rural Haiti Project, 347-405-5552
The Salvation Army, 800-725-2769
Samaritan's Purse, 828-262-1980
Save the Children, 800-728-3843
UNICEF, 800-367-5437
World Concern, 800-755-5022
World Hope International, 888-466-4673
World Relief, 800-535-5433
World Vision, 888-511-6548
Yele Haiti, 212-352-0552 Wyclef Jean's grassroots org (Text Yele to 501 501 to donate $5 via your cellphone)
Also, you can simply text "HAITI" to "90999" and a donation of $10 will be given automatically to the Red Cross.
Links:
The story: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/34829978/ns/world_news-americas/?GT1=43001
How to help: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/34835478/ns/world_news-haiti_earthquake/
Through the grace of God, the human family is intensely compassionate and cares for its own, and the spirit of generosity and love is pouring in from all corners of the globe, but much, much more is definitely immediately needed. I have listed some charitable organizations below (from msnbc). If you can afford to spare any money, please do so. You can even text a donation on your cell phone. But if not, at the very least, I beg you pray for the victims, especially all of those still trapped under the rubble, that they be rescued before it's too late, particularly the dear children. God be with Haiti as they deal with the worst catastrophe in their history.
Please contact the organizations below right away:
Action Against Hunger, 877-777-1420
American Red Cross, 800-733-2767
American Jewish World Service, 212-792-2900
AmeriCares, 800-486-4357
Beyond Borders, 866-424-8403
CARE, 800-521-2273
Catholic Relief Services, 800-736-3467
Childcare Worldwide, 800-553-2328
Direct Relief International, 805-964-4767
Doctors Without Borders, 888-392-0392
Feed My Starving Children, 763-504-2919
Food for the Poor, 800-427-9104
Friends of WFP, 866-929-1694
Haiti Children, 877-424-8454
Haiti Marycare, 203-675-4770
Haitian Health Foundation, 860-886-4357
Hope for Haiti, 239-434-7183
International Medical Corps, 800-481-4462
International Rescue Committee, 877-733-8433
International Relief Teams, 619-284-7979
Lutheran World Relief, 800-597-5972
Medical Teams International, 800-959-4325
Meds and Food for Kids, 314-420-1634
Mennonite Central Committee, 888-563-4676
Mercy Corps, 888-256-1900
Operation Blessing, 800-730-2537
Operation USA, 800-678-7255
Oxfam, 800-776-9326
Partners in Health, 617-432-5298
Rural Haiti Project, 347-405-5552
The Salvation Army, 800-725-2769
Samaritan's Purse, 828-262-1980
Save the Children, 800-728-3843
UNICEF, 800-367-5437
World Concern, 800-755-5022
World Hope International, 888-466-4673
World Relief, 800-535-5433
World Vision, 888-511-6548
Yele Haiti, 212-352-0552 Wyclef Jean's grassroots org (Text Yele to 501 501 to donate $5 via your cellphone)
Also, you can simply text "HAITI" to "90999" and a donation of $10 will be given automatically to the Red Cross.
Links:
The story: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/34829978/ns/world_news-americas/?GT1=43001
How to help: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/34835478/ns/world_news-haiti_earthquake/
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
Practice Breathing
"Practice breathing? Seriously? I do that all the time, without even thinking," you may be saying.
Well, my dear friends, with all of the health issues people have been dealing with as of late, I've definitely got more in focus with needing to know what good health means, and more importantly, how to achieve it.
While I know I still have tons to learn, I do know that it all starts with breathing. We can go weeks without food, a few days without water, but without oxygen, one could only last a few minutes. That's how crucial oxygen is to our systems. And it is: oxygen is key to the good and proper functioning of all of our organs, from our skin to our kidneys to our eyes to our brains, the most oxygen-needy organ of them all.
In reading on breathing, I've come across much information on the benefits of slow, deep breathing. I won't bore you with a step-by-step, as there are as many methods as there are people, but the goal is to fill the lungs as fully as possible and then exhale fully, in a slow, controlled manner.
The benefits of slow, deep breathing are numerous:
1.) It increases oxygen to all the organs, which means better functionality across the board.
2.) It is the most effective tool in relieving stress and anxiety.
3.) Doing 15 minutes of it before going to bed (which can be done with prayer and/or meditation) helps one sleep much better by setting your body and mind in the ready state for rest.
4.) It increases lung function and capacity, which in turn helps with respiratory issues.
5.) It increases relaxation and provides peace.
6.) It aids in battling fatigue. Tired? Practice a little slow, deep breathing and you can't help but feel rejuvenated.
7.) It helps with cramps, which is sometimes caused by lack of oxygen to the muscles.
8.) It aids in digestion, as the stomach relies on oxygen to work effectively.
While there are plenty of other benefits, these are some of my favorites. So, as often as you can remind yourself throughout the day (leave yourself notes, if need be, as I know I will for myself), even when you are doing other things, focus on your breathing and take slow, deep breaths. You'll be most glad you did. Blessings on your health.
Well, my dear friends, with all of the health issues people have been dealing with as of late, I've definitely got more in focus with needing to know what good health means, and more importantly, how to achieve it.
While I know I still have tons to learn, I do know that it all starts with breathing. We can go weeks without food, a few days without water, but without oxygen, one could only last a few minutes. That's how crucial oxygen is to our systems. And it is: oxygen is key to the good and proper functioning of all of our organs, from our skin to our kidneys to our eyes to our brains, the most oxygen-needy organ of them all.
In reading on breathing, I've come across much information on the benefits of slow, deep breathing. I won't bore you with a step-by-step, as there are as many methods as there are people, but the goal is to fill the lungs as fully as possible and then exhale fully, in a slow, controlled manner.
The benefits of slow, deep breathing are numerous:
1.) It increases oxygen to all the organs, which means better functionality across the board.
2.) It is the most effective tool in relieving stress and anxiety.
3.) Doing 15 minutes of it before going to bed (which can be done with prayer and/or meditation) helps one sleep much better by setting your body and mind in the ready state for rest.
4.) It increases lung function and capacity, which in turn helps with respiratory issues.
5.) It increases relaxation and provides peace.
6.) It aids in battling fatigue. Tired? Practice a little slow, deep breathing and you can't help but feel rejuvenated.
7.) It helps with cramps, which is sometimes caused by lack of oxygen to the muscles.
8.) It aids in digestion, as the stomach relies on oxygen to work effectively.
While there are plenty of other benefits, these are some of my favorites. So, as often as you can remind yourself throughout the day (leave yourself notes, if need be, as I know I will for myself), even when you are doing other things, focus on your breathing and take slow, deep breaths. You'll be most glad you did. Blessings on your health.
Monday, January 11, 2010
The Dawn of a New Decade, a New Life
My dear friends, I'm sorry to have been away for so long, without even a note as to why, but I've been dealing with health issues. I went in for surgery three weeks ago to have a tumor removed. The tests on it are still not back yet, but I trust in God's providence that everything will turn out like it should. I will be fine, that's for sure. My family's health problems still continue, so all of my prayers are with them now, especially my little sister.
This last year saw a lot of changes, a lot of problems, and tons of lessons. I grew so much during this last year, mainly through suffering and dealing with difficult people. But that is all in the past. Life begins anew, and there is no time like the present to get dreams converted into reality.
I was reading my favorite cultural geographer/philosopher's (Yi-Fu Tuan's) recent Dear Colleague letter, and it spoke to me deeply. Of course, I'm known for poaching the wisdom of greater minds, so I thought I would share the thoughts most apropos:
1.) Thomas Hobbes observed, “Hell is truth seen too late."
Many are guilty, as I know I am, of waiting and waiting for things to happen. Waiting to explore, waiting to learn, waiting to grow in truth and knowledge. Death is an inevitability, and life is bitterly too short, so make haste to know. The answers are there, just open your mind to God and avail yourself of all learning. There is no future, it only becomes the now. And this now is better than next year's now. There is no time to waste. Literally.
2.)“In art, as in morality, great things go by the board because at the crucial moment we blink our eyes. When is the crucial moment? Greatness is to recognize it and be able to hold it and extend it. But for most of us the space between ‘dreaming on things to come’ and ‘it is too late, it is all over’ is too tiny to enter. And so we let each thing go, thinking vaguely that it will always be given to us to try again. Thus works of art, and thus whole lives of men, are spoilt by blinking and moving quickly on” (Iris Murdoch, The Black Prince).
The key is to live life fully, be dynamic, active, and spread as much goodness and love as you can to as many people as you can. Do not live life pooling regrets until you drown in them. Rush at opportunity, and you will live without disappointments.
Time is rushing away from us...this is the year of Doing, so go out there and make this world a better place for all. I know I will. God be with you all.
This last year saw a lot of changes, a lot of problems, and tons of lessons. I grew so much during this last year, mainly through suffering and dealing with difficult people. But that is all in the past. Life begins anew, and there is no time like the present to get dreams converted into reality.
I was reading my favorite cultural geographer/philosopher's (Yi-Fu Tuan's) recent Dear Colleague letter, and it spoke to me deeply. Of course, I'm known for poaching the wisdom of greater minds, so I thought I would share the thoughts most apropos:
1.) Thomas Hobbes observed, “Hell is truth seen too late."
Many are guilty, as I know I am, of waiting and waiting for things to happen. Waiting to explore, waiting to learn, waiting to grow in truth and knowledge. Death is an inevitability, and life is bitterly too short, so make haste to know. The answers are there, just open your mind to God and avail yourself of all learning. There is no future, it only becomes the now. And this now is better than next year's now. There is no time to waste. Literally.
2.)“In art, as in morality, great things go by the board because at the crucial moment we blink our eyes. When is the crucial moment? Greatness is to recognize it and be able to hold it and extend it. But for most of us the space between ‘dreaming on things to come’ and ‘it is too late, it is all over’ is too tiny to enter. And so we let each thing go, thinking vaguely that it will always be given to us to try again. Thus works of art, and thus whole lives of men, are spoilt by blinking and moving quickly on” (Iris Murdoch, The Black Prince).
The key is to live life fully, be dynamic, active, and spread as much goodness and love as you can to as many people as you can. Do not live life pooling regrets until you drown in them. Rush at opportunity, and you will live without disappointments.
Time is rushing away from us...this is the year of Doing, so go out there and make this world a better place for all. I know I will. God be with you all.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Posts
