I'm an Ongoing work...

Engaged to Kathryn

2006-11-13T09:20:00.000-08:00

So as many of you have probably heard by now, Kathryn and I are engaged.
This post is so that I do not have to tell and retell and retell the story. Please forgive the loss of intimacy through reading the story online. I am sure you can understand the point of my actions.

So we got engaged on October 25th, 2006. We are planning a very small, family only ceremony and reception for next summer. We will be throwing parties for our friends everywhere after the honeymoon to celebrate.

The proposal went as follows. A couple of years ago (8.28.04) I wrote a proposal down at the Land Rover event that Matt and I went to (not sure if he knew that). I sealed it with wax and then just held onto it until I knew the time was right. It was on really nice paper with calligraphy and the whole deal. So I went into my house and retreived it. Then she and I sat in her car in the parking lot of the college (where I first asked her out) and I said some speech explaining the card without telling her what it really was and then she opened it. Her jaw dropped and then i asked her verbally another couple of times before she finally answered and said yes, through teary eyes and a shocked expression.

I gave her a ring that was a family heirloom. It belonged to my great Aunt, from the WWII era. Her name was Blanch and she was married to Burle for like 70+ years. She lived to be about 90. She was a Home Economics teacher and Burle was a 4th grade teacher. They were deacons in the church and just really model people. They apparently never had any falling out or major drama in their marriage. With all that said, we like the story behind the ring, and Kat absolutely loves it. It is an engagement ring and wedding ring set. We got it sized and appraised and insured and we are now set to go. Now we need to find one for me.

So there are most of the details. Call/text/IM me if you want more. I'll try to be availible to respond ASAP. Talk with y'all later-
-Benjamin

Finishing

2006-10-10T10:57:00.000-07:00

So I have realized that there is no real reason for me to keep this site on my bookmarks. It just serves as a reminder of how I am neglecting my postings. I just really do not have a desire to keep this up.

So, with one post shy of 100, I am calling it quits. If you want to find out how life is, just call.

Later-
-Benjamin

Neglect

2006-08-22T08:58:00.000-07:00

Talk about neglecting the blog.... I think the server just about froze with surprise when I signed on here again...

Anyway, I have nothing exciting to say and no real reason to write anything but Im here blabbering away...

Ok well it is always good to see all of you. I can tell things are changing down there. I hope all the changes are positive. I trust the leadership down there to shepard you all effectively.

Well I guess I'll see ya next time around...

Recent Visit

2006-06-22T22:41:00.000-07:00

Hey All-
It was great to see you all again, even if just for Sunday morning service. Kathryn and Jamie both had a good time. She felt very welcome by 95% of you. She especially liked the people sitting behind us (you know who you are). Im sure she will come down again, maybe next time we can actually get some quality time to hang instead of just passing through.

Im in a Modular class right now. Three days of 8.5 hours of class each day. then I have three weeks to read three books and do a research paper and study for a final. WOO-HOO!

See y'all soon hopefully, but know that for the next few weeks I will probably be buried in some book.

Coming Down

2006-06-15T14:27:00.000-07:00

Hello to all those people back home who still read this. I hope that you read this before Sunday.

I am coming home for the week-end, unfortunately I have plans the whole time so there will not be any time to hang out, due to Mom's birthday celebration and Father's day.

Also, here's an update:
I have a girlfriend and she is coming with me to church Sunday, unless something unforseen happens. You will all be able to meet her and her 4 year old daughter and visa versa.

Sorry to leave you with so few details, but if you have any questions you can always ask.

I'm sure you will all make a good impression on her as well as her to you all.

See ya soon.

Finals

2006-06-10T10:59:00.000-07:00

THAT'S RIGHT I'M DONE WITH FINALS!!!!

Finale

2006-05-31T16:21:00.000-07:00

FINALS!!!!!!!!!!!!!

AAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!

Not to mention the fact that I just got over some nasty food poisoning that had it coming out both ends, nearly at the same time! (I just thought you might appreciate the visual)

Have a Good Day!

Xanga

2006-05-16T10:29:00.000-07:00

Everyone is slowly making their way to Xanga. I, unfortunately, am not able to follow, as, like myspace, Xanga is blocked by our net nanny here at school/work.

everyone else enjoy, and please dont forget the little people back here doing blogs...

R.I.P.

2006-05-04T10:55:00.000-07:00

So Last night was poised as being a great night. I had an opportunity to go see Eddie Izzard LIVE.

Long story short, I got in to see him. It was an intimate black box theatre setting with only 99 people in the audience. My friend Kathryn and I got in by buying extra tickets off of someone else. At the end of the night, we were both very disappointed in the night.

Eddie started off by making an attempt to bash "Intelligent Design". For anyone with experience in researching this area and/or evolution, it was clearly an unsuccessful argument. The whole 90 minutes of routine just reacked of Godlessness. A lot of the routine was old bits that came from previously famous routines so I already know, not only the jokes, but how he would say them.

The whole audience seemed to be giving courtesy laughs. You could just tell that people were laughing, not because it was so funny, but because of what they thought of Eddie.

Overall it was jsut very disappointing. It was like my comidic superhero died last night.

R.I.P.

Complete

2006-04-17T03:21:00.000-07:00

My Celebrity Siting is Complete!!!

Saturday Night, I was at Macy's buying some new shoes, because I can and an old pair was falling apart and I saw him. Mr Improv himself: Wayne Brady!! Im waiting for a friend of mine to come back from the bathroom and he walks right by me. As He does I decided to say something to let him know that I'm a fan. So what do I say? "I love you man!"

Not exactly the coolest thing to say. He was on the phone so I couldnt shake his hand and say anything worthwhile, so instead I went with "I love you man!" WHAT?!?!?! I can just imagine him going home to his wife that night...

"So some gay guy said he loved me in Macy's today."
"Oh dear, another one?"
"Yea but I was on the phone so I didnt have to talk to him. I just said thanks and kept walking."
"That's good dear. Im glad you're home..."
ETC.

Well I was happy to see him. Maybe if it happens again I can be a bit more articulate. We'll see I guess

Prayer Request

2006-04-05T11:51:00.000-07:00

For those of you who still read this...

I need prayer. I cant disclose why, but I am in major need. I would advise praying in the spirit and seeing what God brings to your mind, then praying about that in the understanding or just continue in the Spirit.

I appreciate your support and love. talk with y'all later.

Here We Go Again

2006-03-27T23:30:00.000-08:00

A new quarter has started. Here we go again! So far my grades from last quarter are turning out well, with two A's one B and a grade still in limbo.

This quarter I am working more, yea for more money. I am only taking three quarter classes, but I am taking my first modular (an intense weekend of three eight hour days of the same class, followed by papers and reading on my own time). Twelve units. Its still a bit hard to adjust to things up here.

Im still trying to get planted in a church. I've found a couple that I like. One of them has great worship while the other has a pastor that I really like. I dont know yet, but I am starting to feel the loss within from not ministering to others.

I am also learning a lot about myself and my views on what church should be and what it actually is and so on. Its a great cahnge in my eyes, but it may cause conflict between those who haven'e recieved the experiences I have. Im not saying my idea is right or anything, it is simply my idea and what I am starting to look for. Please keep in mind that this idea goes beyond the basics of what my paper talks about on the website for my papers.

I look forward to coming home because I love all of you there and I want to be back under my Pastors and other authorities, but please start to know that I am not the same as when I left. When I do come back it may be like you have to get to know me all over again. The wooing process in relationships may have to happen all over. I look forward to it though, I hope you all do too.

Much Love. God Bless-

George

2006-03-15T11:15:00.000-08:00

It anyone is a glutton for punishment, or just has a keen interest in George Washington, here is a link to a research paper I just did on him. Beware. It's 14 pages and has 54 citations in it.

http://ephesianstwo10papers.blogspot.com/

Debating...

2006-03-10T02:59:00.000-08:00

Im debating on whether or not to keep this going. I have done it so that those of you back home can keep up on the events in my life. I try to be as real as I can and I feel that I have been.

My dilemma comes when what I say begins to make people worry. I dont want people to worry, so maybe I'll just frop this, and if you really want to know what's going on you can call...

Generations

2006-02-28T01:01:00.000-08:00

Lately I've been a bit upset. I dont know who to be upset at though...

I was just thinking about the world and the church. I noticed a common thread between them. Neither world lets their children just be children. There is something in education called "the push down effect". This basically means that what was once expected of someone entering high school might now be expected of someone entering Junior High. What was expected to be learned in kindergarten is now expected to be known before even entering school.

The church does this too. There are battles and fights that should be fought by the parent aged generation, but they are expected to be fought nowadays by the youth. Fortunately the youth of today ROCK and are able and willing to take up this cross and carry it, but should they have to? Whatever happen to being trained up and observing for a while and being satuarted with seeing expereinces before being expected to execute them.

I know there are benifits of the hands on expereinces, but i think that there is plenty of time for it and it shouldnt be rushed. I also know that there are a lot of examples of young people being used in the bible, but it is usually and exception to the norm and not what I believe God origninally intended, just a sign of the times I guess.

If you are a youth reading this, please dont stop doing what you are doing. It is good that you are waging the wars that you are involved in. If you can manage it, make sure to take the time to just be a kid.

If you are a parent reading this, or of the same age 35+, step it up a notch. You are to be the example for your children to follow. They cant follow where you are not yourself going. You cant produce in them anything that is not first within you. You can teach until you're blue in the face, but it wont stick in them for any good length of time unless it is in you perminantly, first.

Im off my soap box now...

Sin Sucks

2006-02-26T16:10:00.000-08:00

So I dont want to sin...

...and yet I run to it like its the cure for a cancer I have. Then when I get it I find out that it IS the cancer I have and I just took a larger hit of it.

The thing that really sucks about sin is the false promise of fulfilment. Its not that sin isnt enjoyable, it is (for a little while), but when I give into sin I automatically, like someone flipped a switch, feel as if Im starving again. Its like an extreme version of chinese food. You know how after you eat chinese food you feel hungry again in like 1 hour, seemingly no matter how much you gorge yourself on chow mein or whatever. Sin is like the extreme version. You can gorge yourself on it, but instantaneously you are hungry again (at least I am).

Sin isnt meant to be fulfilled, which is why nothing actually can fulfill it. Sin's only desire is to get more of itself. Norman Rockwell (or some other rich guy) was asked: "How much money is enough?" and his response might have been straight from the mouth of sin itself: "just a little more."

I just thought I would share some recent thoughts... there ya go.

Rescuing

2006-02-19T22:18:00.000-08:00

God is good. This world sucks sometimes...

As I wonder about my day today I wonder what the best way to know His will is. On one hand I believe that if I am truly seeking God then missing His will would be difficult. On the other hand, I wonder if Im seeking Him enough and if Im really hearing His will and how His will could be anything different than what I see.

I know God has good plans for me and those around me, but I doubt myself and my realtionship with Him. He love me, I try. He speaks to me, I strain to hear. He rejoices over me, I wonder. He has good things for me, my righteousness is as filthy rags... He hates sin, so do I. He desires the best for me, so do I. He has a plan and wants me to know it, I want to know it too.

I need rescuing. Maybe its come and I just havent seen it as such. I hope so...

FINALLY!

2006-02-11T18:50:00.000-08:00

I Finally jumped head first back into photography. Some black and whites. I spent a day at the park and followed around this woman and her daughter. I had their permission so everything was Kosher. And as some of you might understand, about one out of six came out with the kind of quality I would hope for... he's a few of my favorites:

Interesting dilemma

2006-02-11T00:29:00.000-08:00

I've recently had an interesting dilemma to face.

I've found it hard to find good counsel and I was wondering why. I found that I was more comforted by non christians than by the body of believers. I prayed to God and asked for help and asked for him to send someone I can draw close to and no one came. I wondered how I was going to deal with things and get my issues off of my chest and it just hit me.

A lot of christians (especially the ones I've been around for counsel) seem to be trying so hard to be christian that they forget to be human. God just showed me this lately...

Our christianity should compliment and enhance our humanity, not detract from it. I think we get caught up in those verses about being sinful and like "filthy rags", and while on one level it is true, we lose our effectiveness by focusing too much on that.

Let us keep in mind that God made us human (before the fall, as well as after). We are not meant to be anything else.

If we are to reach the world we need to relate to them, and not from an objectional vantage point that seems far off and removed, but one that is down in the trenches with them, helping to pull one another up and out of the mud.

I have come to embrace the fact that Im human. As a human I need to rely on God 24.25/7! (actual amount of time in a day, not just a random number).

Just thought I'd share, hope you got something out of it...

New Words

2006-02-08T22:03:00.000-08:00

YEA! My new bible arrived today. I ordered it online. Its called the Soul Care Bible. This bible is done in the NKJV and all of its commentary notes revolve around counseling and, although it is a bit redundant to say it, around Caring for your Soul. Im excited to dive in and see what new words I get out of it...

YEA THE BIBLE!

Only One...

2006-02-08T01:16:00.000-08:00

In a recent conversation about desires and my future a friend of mine asked what would happen if I ever married a doormat... this was my response:

"It would never get to that point if she was a door mat. There's only one I will carry across the threshold and she'll belong there next to me... beyond the door"

We both thought it was a pretty good quote. She said I had to save it some how. What better way than to put it in cyberspace. So there it is.

Back to Blah

2006-02-05T22:13:00.000-08:00

So I had a couple days where things seemed to be getting easier and now they're back to blah!

its interestingly sad how much we want to go back to Egypt so much. not because we want to be slaves, but because we knew what to expect. We dealt with it and got to a working stage in life that we were at least comfortable dealing with. The great unknown often doesnt look great, it just scares the hell out of us.

I wish I could go back to comfortable, but what good would that do? I dont know what God wants to happen, but Im doing the best i can to find out and do my part. I need to stop hiding from Him. Interesting that we are happy when someone "finds God" when really He is the one trying to find us...

I have a lot of places I like to hide, its an important game of hide and seek that I must forfeit in order to mature.

Buffalo Exchange

2006-02-05T12:36:00.000-08:00

So I now own my first pair of designer jeans. Im very excited! (boy do I sound like a girl right now... oh well.) Armani!

Just to give you guys an idea of the difference between where I am now and San Diego... I bought them at a thrift store (Buffalo Exchange) for $30! Could they be knock offs? Possible, but they look genuine to me, and with the area Im in I dont doubt their authenticity.

Just thought I would share my glee with everyone. (That's right... I said "glee"... love it!)

New Music

2006-02-04T18:07:00.000-08:00

You ever find some new artist that just makes you happy?

Raul Midon is doing that for me today. His guitar sounds like Jason Mraz (who he went on tour with), but I think his vocals are better. Anyway he makes me happy.

Jamie Cullum is another one. A young jazz piano and guitar player.

Check 'em out when you get a chance!

...

2006-01-31T00:07:00.000-08:00

BLAH!

Cancelled!

2006-01-29T18:49:00.000-08:00

So that singing gig was cancelled. Long story short: a lot of time went into learning a song that I now no longer have to sing. I am disappointed because i put in time with out seeing the pay off, but I am being reimbursed for my time, which I didnt expect, even if I had performed, so that's cool. And now I dont have the stress of going on with it.

And I made a new friend in Kathryn. The girl who was going to play piano and then not play, but ended up going to sing with me. She is off the hook as well, so if anything this experience was to bring me a new friend and a little money.

Im happy...

Captain Jack

2006-01-29T11:06:00.000-08:00

Why cant I ever get links to look as good as anyone else's??? Oh well... the info is still here.

You scored as Captain Jack Sparrow. Roguish,quick-witted, and incredibly lucky, Jack Sparrow is a pirate who sometimes ends up being a hero, against his better judgement. Captain Jack looks out for #1, but he can be counted on (usually) to do the right thing. He has an incredibly persuasive tongue, a mind that borders on genius or insanity, and an incredible talent for getting into trouble and getting out of it. Maybe its brains, maybe its genius, or maybe its just plain luck. Or maybe a mixture of all three.

Lara Croft

67%

Captain Jack Sparrow

67%

William Wallace

63%

The Amazing Spider-Man

58%

Batman, the Dark Knight

58%

Neo, the "One"

58%

Indiana Jones

54%

James Bond, Agent 007

50%

Maximus

50%

El Zorro

46%

The Terminator

38%

Which Action Hero Would You Be? v. 2.0
created with QuizFarm.com

Sweet! But I dont know...

2006-01-25T22:00:00.000-08:00

So in just today i have been given two opportunities to make my life busier, I mean more full, better yet more productive (yea that's it)

I had a talk with the Youth Director here at TCOTW (The Church on the Way) and he sounds interested in having me get involved with the youth program here. We have a meeting this Tuesday. Sound familiar? well its during the day so its not.

then as I was getting off work I was given a job opportunity. Its basically being a personal assistant (one of three) to a lady in charge of special events. It would be part time, with potential for more. More money than now (per hour) and an environment that I think I would enjoy (Ritzy hotels and country clubs, where even the sound techs have to wear a jacket and tie).

So I plan on spending some time in prayer about them both and doing my best to act according to God's perfect will.

Any additional prayer would be appreciated.

INSANE

2006-01-24T22:16:00.000-08:00

School is so freakin insane this week! Im only in the thrid/fourth week of the quarter! Not even half way there yet! AAHHH!

USC Singing

2006-01-22T08:04:00.000-08:00

So I've gotten roped into singing an old baptist hymn at the USC graduation for Docters.

I like the song. Its simple, short, and the words are good, but still....

Precious Lord
Take my hand,
Lead me on,
Let me stand,

I am tired,
I am weak,
I am lone,

Through the storm,
through the night,
Lead me on,
To your light,

Take my hand,
Precious Lord,
And lead,
Me on.

Pray for me, I am scared.
Its happening on the 31st of Jan.

Dang it

2006-01-19T17:48:00.000-08:00

I have realized recently how much I have not trusted God in a couple areas of my life.

Area 1: He has told me through his servents that there is someone already hand-picked for me, yet I keep going out and looking for someone. Dang it.

Area 2: God has brought me to this place (college) so I must trust Him to provide for me to finish my time here, so why am I stressing out over trying to add a new job and everything. He's never let me down before. I know His voice, I just need to listen for it.

Lord forgive me...

Love & Patience

2006-01-17T01:06:00.000-08:00

Love:

As I sat and reflected on current situations in my life, it became rather apparent that my life is being cleaned out. Its not a comfortable process, nor one that I wish I, or anyone else, had to go though. Relationship dynamics are changing; secrets are coming forth; the truth is setting in; and freedom is starting to reign. Praise be to God!

I can only suspect at the reasoning behind all of this occurring and I dare not speak my suspicions for fear of being wrong. It is needless to say, though, that it is a good reason and one that I sincerely anticipate coming to fruition.

Patience:

It is an interesting realization to see that the path you are on is unlike any other path that you know of. I look at where I am at in life now and I really have to wonder how it came to be. Many of you know me and my background and know that I come from a stereotypical "broken home". Divorce, 'alternate lifestyle', substance abuse, identity questions, along with the common challenges of growing up. I do not believe that I ever lacked for any good thing. My parents always loved me and never abused me in any way. They were good parents! But we have all either seen or heard of good parents who have rotten children (and sometimes the reverse is true: rotten parents a great children).

I believe I had good parents, but even with that said it doesn't guarantee that I would be even close to the path I am on now, but here I am. So I often wonder what it was that enabled me to get where I am and to continue on where I am going. When it comes down to it I really can only give the glory to my God. I've taken my life down paths of destruction, but somehow I was always rescued from the path. I've made bad choices, some unknowingly and others were blatantly disobedient to what I knew to be right or good, just because I wanted to experience something new or forbidden and God has saved me, but that is not to discount the fact that I have baggage from those misadventures. Baggage which must now be dealt with and dropped into His hands. And it is this process of dealing with my baggage that constitutes a percentage of the cleaning that I referred to in the earlier part of this post.

God is Good.
Thank-you God for your love and patience with me.

Third Celebrity

2006-01-16T00:34:00.000-08:00

So yesterday as I was walking into my gym Shades (Tom Everett Scott), from "That Thing You Do" was walking out.

He's tall!

saw him again today(1-19-06)... not that tall

Weird feeling

2006-01-14T19:26:00.000-08:00

Its always a weird feeling to hear of an ex significant other who is getting married.

I just heard of another ex of mine who is getting married. If it actually goes through, this will make number 4 to actually get married (that I know of). There have been 2 others that have been engaged with-out getting married.

Just makes me feel old, but I guess I'd rather make sure that it's the right time and the right person than to just rush into anything. I've done that too often.

Cats and Dogs

2006-01-14T11:10:00.000-08:00

I just thought this was a great quote:

"We were talking about cats and dogs the other day and decided that both have consciences but the dog, being an honest, humble person, always has a bad one, but the cat is a Pharisee and always has a good one. When he sits and stares at you out of countenance he is thanking God that he is not as these dogs, or these humans, or even as these other cats!"
C.S. Lewis (1967) Letters to an American lady

YOU KNOW IT'S TRUE!

Color Photos

2006-01-14T01:55:00.000-08:00

I have decided to post some of my favorite photos. Ones that I have taken that is. I have others that are favorites, but the quality on my computer isn't that great. I also have taken other photos that are favorites but for some reason or another I don't have them anymore. So here is some of my art. From both Rome and the wild plains of Africa! (Wild Animal Park)
(in no particular order)

This is a typical street market in Rome. The selection was very random, but the colors and life in the photo are what really make it for me.

This is looking up from the inside of the Coliseum. Nice cross

this photo is inside the outer wall of

the Coliseum.

Very majestic isn't he?

Yaks I think...

I like the contrast in color.

This was the Giraffe that I got a chance to feed

He is obviously camera shy.

Creation

2006-01-12T23:08:00.000-08:00

So my doctrine class also talked about men vs women and it kinda made me see things in a... Not a new light, but a more clear one.

Please note that these are generalizations and there are exceptions.

Man was created with a purpose of doing. Man was given tasks to do, take dominion! Name the animals! Do do do!

Women were greeted specifically for relationship! They were brought into existence to have relations with man.

Looking at relationships this way makes it very easy to see why men, a lot of the time just really have NO CLUE what women are trying to do when they communicate to us. Unfortunately men were not created in that relationship. This could explain that when a women is sharing something with a man, the man automatically just wants to fix it. Well women have brains too! Its not for the purpose of finding a solution that the woman is sharing (sometimes), but instead it is to simply inform the man of what's going on, so that their lives, their relationship, will be full and constantly connected.

This is by no means an excuse for men's actions. Men should always do their best to enhance the relationship and maybe women should do more, but the point of all this is to hopefully gave some understanding that I just received so that all of our relationships can be better.

I know personally I have made monumental mistakes that have cost relationships and maybe if I understood more it wouldn't have happened.

Ladies, please be patient with your men, they really don't know...

Value

2006-01-12T22:48:00.000-08:00

So my Bible Doctrine class was great tonight!

(by the way, I am aware of the fact that I have yet to finish my postings about that political book I just finished, but as there are no requests for the following chapters, I feel as if they can wait until I get motivation to finish)

So tonight in class we talked about views on humanity, the importance of studying humanity, and so on. The point I want to bring up is our discussion on "value". Some of this may seem repetitious to things you have heard before, but I ask for your indulgence anyway.

Any value that something has, is there simply because we gave it that value. In and of itself nothing has value. Money is really just colored paper. Clothes are simply the product of a plant or animal. Electronics are really not valuable because they are just a bunch of metal ores combined to make something (they also have plastic... It's true). So why do these things have value? Because we say they do.

Well what gives us the right to say anything has value? You can only give what you have, correct? So to say something is valuable that is to say that you are valuable. But who says that you are valuable? Its true that humans are at the top of the food chain on earth and can rule any other species we want, but that doesn't give us value, just position. So what gives humans value?

As Christians we know that it is God who gives us value (as well as purpose). And we know that one can only give what one has, so God can only give us value because he has it. But why does God have value? Try to think of an answer before you read on and see if it's the same as mine.

God has value, and its not because we give it to him. God has value in and of himself and he is the only one who can truthfully claim that. But why? Because with-out God, nothing exists. God is eternal. Everything that we give value to is temporary. NOTHING is going to last forever, except our spirits and God. God exists outside of our temporal realm and so he has value because he is the only one who can truthfully claim that.

And because he is the only one who can truthfully claim that, he is really the only one who is worthy and able to bestow value on anything; and he does: us! We are what God values! Above anything else! Above Everything else! God values you and me! And because he is the only one that truly has value to give, we can rest in the fact that if God values us, we must be valuable.

JUANNY!

2006-01-11T23:20:00.000-08:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY JUANNY!

Ch. 1 "Why They Hate Us"

2006-01-07T21:29:00.000-08:00

My next quote comes from the first chapter (the following postings will be one from each chapter as well).

It was difficult for me to chose a good single quote so I've decided on two from the same page and reasoned in myself that this was ok. (it's my blog, I say what's ok on here)

Basically this chapter examines the critiques from America's enemies, whether on foreign or domestic soil. These quotes come from Islamic fundamentalists, american figures usually associated with the extreme left, some even with the extreme right. I happen to agree with most of what the author writes and in this case it was his view point on how to deal with the critiques that caught my attention.

"The foreign critique of America would not be so formidable if Americans were united in resisting and responding to it. Patriotism, then, would be an easy matter of 'us' versus 'them'... Not only do these [domestic] critiques make patriotism problematic, but they also pose the question of whether an open society, where such criticisms are permitted and even encouraged, has the fortitude and the will to resist external assault."

I find that this thought hits right at the soul of what is the problem in America today. Many people are throwing fits because of the mistakes that either current or past administrations have made. What they fail to realize is that mistakes have been made before and we continually thrive and even grow stronger because of them. We have saved the world twice! (WWII, and The Cold War). Its fine if you disagree with decisions that are made, but in a time of war, those public disagreements are what cause us to lose hope and progress.

President Lincoln once had someone kicked out of the country for speaking treason during the civil war times. He tried to send the man to the south, but the south didnt want him, so he was booted up to Canada! At the time of his deportation the man was running for Governer of Indiana, or Iowa (one of the states in that area, I forget at the present time).

Its time for Americans to support our leaders. Jesus taught us that a house/ kingdom divided against itself will not stand. America is divided against itself like never before. What do you think is going to happen if we dont learn to support decisions we dont agree with? We must support them, not because we agree or disagree but because we support the right in this country for people to choose their own way.

Islam wants to make the world submit by force, but higher is the path of choice. A virtue that is accpeted out of fear of punishment is no virtue at all, it is simply a smart choice if one values his life on earth.

If one chooses virtue when there are other choices to be had, then it truely is a virtue and something worth admiring.

Preface

2006-01-07T19:05:00.000-08:00

So I have finished reading a book recommended to me.

It is called "What's So Great About America" by Dinesh D'Souza.

I have decided to share my favorite quote from each chapter with everyone here. I feel like a total nerd doing so, but in the midst of the media slandering the name of America it was refreshingly intoxicating to read a book that defended America so eliquently and effectively.

So my first quote comes from the Preface. It is here that the author gives a synopsis of an ancient speach given by Pericles. It is the city of Athens that he is refering to, but most of the descriptions he gives could be applied to the United States with little to no effort.

"Our system or government does not copy the institutions of its neighbors. It is more the case of our being a model to others, than of our imitating anyone." (p. xi-xii)

I think that this is a truth that cannot, or rather should not be challenged to change. It is this uniqueness that makes the US so effective in institutiong change in the world, for the better. It is unfortunate that not everyone agrees and that those people, in fact, do look to foreign systems of rule for guidence. The very thought is ludicrous to me.

Johnny!

2006-01-07T15:06:00.000-08:00

Special shot out to Johnny!

Thanks for the software!
My computer is now able to play DVDs again!

ROCK ON!

Learning already

2006-01-04T22:07:00.000-08:00

My first day of class and I'm learning already. Imagine that.

I thought this was pretty cool, so I figured others might too, so I'm sharing...

I found out tonight that Jehovah is a made up word. The Germans made it up when translating the hebrew word for adonai. Because of the way it is written in hebrew "adonai" is "Yahweh" with a certain amount and type of vowels below it. So the germans took the consinents from Yahweh and the vowels from adonai and made Jehovah.

also interesting: when you read the bible and you see LORD (with all caps) it means Yahweh (God's name). when it is written with only the L capitalized (Lord) it is a title. Its done like this so that the writers wouldn't use God's name (Yahweh) in vain, or over use it.

So next time you're reading the psalms or anything else for that matter, try inserting Yahweh where it says LORD and see how much more personal it becomes...

2005

2006-01-04T16:18:00.000-08:00

So last year was very eventful for me, I dont know how 2006 will match/ top it.

Went to England

Spent a week in Rome

Found out the truth of my origins...

Got completely out of debt (then back in a little, but not as bad)

Moved away to College

Got a new Tattoo

I spent the majority of the year single (7 months [and counting])

I lived with Matt McErlean!

Not a whole lot in number but the quality is unmatched to date...

New Tat

2006-01-04T16:16:00.000-08:00

its a bit delayed in posting, but here is a picture of my new tattoo for anyone who hasnt seen it.

I know...

2005-12-24T23:43:00.000-08:00

I have made a mistake and I thought others could learn from it...

If you plan on taking a risk in a relationship(s), make sure to avoid holiday times in doing so because if the risk doesnt pay off then the holiday/ birthday/ whatever will be awkward or even painful. I unfortunately didnt think of this and so now the responsibility of knowing that I hurt someone (some people actually) is taking away from my (and possibly their) "comfort and joy". So now this holiday season is tainted... at my own doing.

P.S.
I know I said i was going to take a break... I entend to keep that statement true, in a sense. I am only going to write when I have something I feel is important to share. So not so much of the everyday thoughts and so on...

Break

2005-12-19T22:59:00.000-08:00

I've lost my enthusiasm for this thing, so Im breaking from it for a while. If you would like to know what's going on, just call me.

LOL

2005-12-13T23:53:00.000-08:00

LOL...LMAO!

Wow... if I ever want to know who still reads my blog I guess all I have to do it post something that everyone deals with and is passionate about. As I scrolled back in my posts, it took 20, count them TWETNY, posts ago to find another with this many comments on it. (the post actually only had 4; well 5 if you count my response post. I didnt feel like scrolling beyond that post).

I find it hilarious that so many of you have opinions about where I stand on this topic. Many of you have been around me for a while but very few (i'd say 2) of you know me well enough to make a real valid comment about me personally. Sharing your own opinion about the topic of desire/ attractiveness is one thing, but to say anything about me is a bit presumptuous, but oh well.

And for those who dont know me well enough to know this: please know that I seek God constantly on topics and as Im wrong He corrects me. I jokingly try to come across as always being right with people I know, but really I dont have any problem admitting Im wrong when I am and it's shown to me.

Please dont be offended by what I said, again, I just find it funny that so many people all of the sudden have commented.

LOL...

Here we go:

Jen: Im curious at to what you meant by "we are all tired of that". What did you mean by "that"? I have an idea, but I just want some clarification if you wouldn't mind.
Arlene: Thanks (not very exciteing response from me, but thanks)
JW: Difference between desire and attractiveness? I would say the difference is choice. I dont often choose who I'm attracted to, but I do choose who to pursue and to pour energy into which I think grows the desire aspect. Maybe Im not explaining it fully. Ask me in person if you want a more full explination.
Stella: I agree with what you said. We all know I love women and that often gets me into trouble. Not big trouble, but enough to cause drama. I do need to be more selective and I guess that's kinda the underlying point in all of this.
Elliot: I also believe in giving fully to someone you love, but Im not talking about love here. Im talking about the stages that lead up to making that choice to love them. Im also talking about what leads up to a romantic love which shouldnt be given fully/feely to everyone. Also, I dont look for a "payoff" in a relationship as you mentioned, but I do look for an equalness. And if that's not there, whether Im giving more or less than the other, there will be unnecessary struggles.
Pinks: I didnt say that those three things are the only things I look for, just that they are important and primary to other things. I wonder if that view on me and how much I love love is why when ever I mention a girl I'm interested in its not taken seriously by others in the church. I can understand it, in part, because how seriously can it be taken when it changes like it does, but Im sure you can understand if anyone can about how that lack of support makes things pretty difficult sometimes. Just a thought...

Thank you ALL for continually reading.

And to my readers who cant comment: please feel free to call or text if you have my number, I know one of you does because we talk often...

Desire...

2005-12-11T18:15:00.000-08:00

So I have recently realized how much desire plays a part in attractiveness.

I am tired of being attracted to people who obviously dont return the feeling. It is now third on my list of traits to look for in someone. Same religious views, same political views, and now same desire for me that I have for her.

I have recently realized that I am worth something spactacular and if others dont see it... their loss. Im moving on.

There's my advise for anyone else. Find someone with those three things and the rest is almost minor, compared to those. Important yes, but not so much.

I'd love to hear if you disagree (and agree too, I guess).

Free

2005-12-04T23:05:00.000-08:00

If you're not free to dance and be silly in church, then where are you free to do it?

Its a shame more people cant let go of themselves while in the presence of the Almighty, who knows everything about you already anyway...

Today was a good day in church

50!

2005-12-02T01:17:00.000-08:00

Post number 50! WOO-HOO!

A landmark post deserves a landmark topic. WAR. I have added a link to another blog. This blog, as you will see is by a man named Michael Yon.

Bruce Willis had a recent visit with the Deuce Four Unit in Iraq and the work of an imbedded reporter named Michael Yon. Michael Yon’s blog will give you some great pics and stories of the people of Iraq.

Truth is not being shared in the main stream media, but the valiant effort/attempt in this story of Bruce Willis’s visit and this blogspot must be shared. Pass it on!

“Power to the people” who keep truth and pass it on to others…

AAHHH!

2005-11-28T19:24:00.000-08:00

My computer seems to have imploded or something, so I cant check this site or my e-mails with the regularity of before, just thought you should know. My computer is in the shop and might be in there all week...

Talk with y'all later!

Guest Speaker

2005-11-27T13:34:00.000-08:00

So Joyce Meyer was the guest speaker at church today.

She gave a "gold ol' fashion warning" to the church. Not that it needed one, but it doesnt hurt to be reminded and warned of impending trials. She talked about Not Compromising. I liked her definition of compromise: going just a little below what you know is right. Now in order to preserve peace in relationships, sometimes compromise is a good thing, but not when it comes to the truths of God. Satan's number one lie is "just once/ just a little". He said it to Jesus: "If you bow down just once, I'll give you all the kingdoms of the earth".

Often times we will run into people at work, or school, or even church that try to get us to compromise on something. These people are often the ones who want to see us succeed the most. Get this: "The people who hope you won't compromise will try to get you to compromise!" It doesnt seem to make much sense, unless you see that they are testing you to see if they can rely on you to be consistant in your stand.

She talked on the fig tree that Jesus cursed. (I can relate to her feelings on this story.) She said she use to feel sorry for that fig tree. It didnt seem to do anything wrong, but Jesus cursed it and it died, just because it didnt produce a fig for him. So let us examine it real quickly. Mat 21:19 "And seeing a fig tree by the wayside, he went to it and found nothing on it but only leaves. And he said to it, 'May no fruit ever come from you again!' And the fig tree withered at once." apparently when a fig tree has leaves it is assumed to have fruit. This tree had leaves, but no fruit. It had an outward appearance that was deceptive because it had no fruit. We all have leaves (stickers on our cars, chirstian clothing, actions around others like having a bible at work, or school, etc.) but do we have the fruit behind the leaves; Gal. 5:22?

She also shared a life lesson of her's about self control. Many times we find ourselves crying out to God saying "I just cant help myself, I just cant seem to stop. I can't help myself. Etc, etc, etc..." God said to her one day "but when it comes time to impress someone, we have all the self control we need to not do or say things we want to." Why doesnt that self-control carry over? There's no reason...

Bad Sun!

2005-11-26T14:59:00.000-08:00

I had a dream last night that Selma and I were dating and talking of marriage.

Why must you be so bright as to wake me up Morning Sun?! WHY?!

Amazing!

2005-11-25T23:34:00.000-08:00

Amazing Fact 1: I made dinner tonight (some are amazed at that fact alone), but I amazed myself at my creativity and talent. It just ended up being really good and really healthy. Tonights menu was was follows:
noodles with a basil marinera sauce
Salad with: spinich, baby carrots, pecans, pineapple, motz. cheese, extra virgin olive oil, apple cider vinger.
It was really good....

Amazing Fact 2: I was reading in Deuteronomy today and ran across a "Miscellaneous Law" that made me laugh. 25:11 "If two men fight together, and the wife of one draws near to rescue her husband from the hand of the one attacking him, and puts out her hand and siezes him by the genitals, then you shall cut off her hand; your eye shall not pity her." (NKJV)
So ladies! no fighting dirty (like that anyway.)

Im just amazed that this was even thought of to be put into the law.

God is my protector!

End Times

2005-11-25T12:41:00.000-08:00

So even though only a couple people actually read my papers, I've posted another one for you few (couple or one) people who are interested.

This one is on the End Times. Its a topic that i have found to be more important to study, as I studied it. It also has a lot of subtopics within it.

If you cant quite summarize your views on the rapture, the great tribulation, Heaven and Hell, death, then you might want to take a look.

Thanksgiving

2005-11-24T09:50:00.000-08:00

Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, into His courts with praise; be thankful to Him; bless His name.

Psalm 100:4 (LITV)

Happy Thanksgiving!

Big Day

2005-11-23T23:42:00.000-08:00

So today ended up being a bit of a long day...

I dont recommend seeing an emotional movie, then trying to work out. It takes a lot out of you for one night. I went and saw RENT tonight. It was good... I got teary on more than one occation (more like 5 or 6). It was definately different than the stage version, musically and even story wise. A lot of songs were dropped only a couple solos and mainly Ensemble stuff. The made some lyrics into spoken lines, which is funny to those of us who know which ones they are. They also dropped parts of songs out in order to make the story flow better. They also changed the instrumentations of some songs, adding sounds and changing harmonies, i like a lot of it! Over all it was good, and I recommend it to anyone who has an interest in fun music and a good story.

So then I went to the gym and worked out. Im trying a new routine that is designed for people who have a hard time gaining weight/ lean muscle mass. This routine also includes a new diet, for which I went shopping tonight. The weekly shopping list that has been designed would have me spending about $75-$100 a week on groceries.... I need another job! (or two). But im excited to try some new recipes and foods....

papers

2005-11-23T02:34:00.000-08:00

so does no body read my papers? i only ask because there are no comments on them. If Im wasting my time posting them, let me know and I'll direct me nrg elsewhere... otherwise... please comment.

Im here

2005-11-23T02:22:00.000-08:00

Im alive and here, Im just kinda burried in books and paper... I'll update when I get a chance and/or something interesting happens....

(there ya go J-Dub!)

Marriage

2005-11-16T11:09:00.000-08:00

The past couple of day have been great to me. I've been continuing to learn more about life and myself. I guess thats good, seeing as how thats kind-of why Im up here. the past couple of days I have felt led to not listen to worship music during my devotional, it became a distraction from my reading, but tonight I started listening again and I got TOTALLY PUMPED! It was great. Some old songs as always, but it wasnt a distraction and I could just feel myself being built up. I love God...

So most of my revelations/learning lately has been around my views on myself and marriage (a topic some of you know is dear to my heart). First i have realized that during this time of being single, I am coming to learn how to be taken care of. I learned to be come indepentent at an early age, just through circumstances beyond my control, but now it seems that God is puting me in situations where I have to allow my family and friends to support me, if I want to survive and come out sane. Ultimately I know He is bringing me to a place of depending on Him more. I also realize that until I go through this a bit more, I am not ready to take care of anyone else (wife, kids, even a pet!). So its cool to realize/ be shown what God is doing in your life, although its not exactly fun all the time, its good to know.

Second, my view on marriage has been changing a bit. its interesting that lately the topic has come up a lot in my circle of friends up here. Im not sure of the reason, but I think it has to do with a lot of single guys being around a few married couples of the same age, and we're just wondering about other's views and secrets to success, ect.

[] So first we have 2 Cor. 6:14- "Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers". For a long time, I have heard this talked about, so last night i investigated the context so see what it was talking about. What does 'yoked' really mean? I found that in the context yoked just means partnering with someone, anywhere from marriage, to business, to close friends. And it would also seem that the only determining factor is belief (in Christ or not). This was important for me to know, because I use to think there were degrees of believe that had to be in line and so on. But I'm coming to realize otherwise.

[] The next point is not to overspiritualize it. So many of us (myself included) just dont want to miss God's voice that we struggle to even make simple descisions about life. I recently heard a quote from Joyce Meyers, because she struggled with the same issue. as my understanding goes, here's how the conversation went: God: "What is stopping you from moving on?" Joyce: "Im afraid of missing what you have for me" God: "Joyce, honey, it ok, I'll find ya!". I found this really encouraging. I first believe that its hard to miss God, you have to really be trying. If you have a relationship with Him and talk with Him daily, you're probably not going to miss Him, and if you do, its ok... "He'll find you!" One other thing to keep in mind about marriage, this descicion wont be for eternity (Matt. 22:30, Mark 12:25, Luke 20:35). It will help or hurt in your achieving your purpose in life, but almost every descision effects that, so why does this one get so much more weight? Please understand, that I am not advocating for flipent marriages, but that leads to my third point:

[] Once the basics are established (believer or not), it just comes down to making a descision and sticking with it. In the end, anyone you shoose to marry is going to be a gamble. There have been christian marriage counselors that divorse after 20 years or so. You never really know what you're getting yourself into, but you should just keep drawing closer to God and trust that He's got your back, if you miss it, then... try your darndest not to miss it. I read a quote lately on Men's Health's website that said this: "Stay on your toes. Keep your elbows in. Don't be afraid. You may be smaller, but just gather your courage, and when you hit, hit hard." It often seems that when our world gets attacked we revert to being afraid and feeling small, but if we just realize that it doesnt matter how small we are, we are still able to fight, then we should fight. Not only fight to defend yourself, but fight for the one you love and fight for the choices you make and the rights you have or need. And fight like a warrior of God, with prayer AND Action!

I'm in Love!

2005-11-14T01:31:00.000-08:00

So tonight I had my first experience Salsa Dancing. I'll just come out and say it... Im in love! It was so much fun!

I took like an hour lesson before hand, learned the basics and repeated the basics with a few different partners, then when the lesson was done, the club was getting pretty packed and all sorts of people showed up. You know what I loved about it the most? It wasnt like I was trying to have sex on the dance floor, like in R&B clubs. Salsa can be very sensual, but you can dance without it being like that. It makes it much more enjoyable and respectable to me.

It was the teacher/ lead singer's birthday tonight, so he had all his friends there, who were great dancers (male and female alike). So I made a point of introcuding myself. I got his card, and he is going to burn me a CD of music to practice to, so I can get better.

Needless to say, Im going back next week...

Two Things: Answer

2005-11-14T01:21:00.000-08:00

So its been a few days and no one has put any guesses about the two things that God doesnt know. Maybe thats because not as many people read my blog as i would like, but whatever the case may be, here's the answer...

While God knows all, it all powerful, and is all around, He does not know two things (biblically supported fact). 1)He doesnt know a sin He doesnt hate. 2) He doesnt know a person He doesnt love.

Some people right will write this off as a joke, or not of importance... "oh yea, well duh!... whatever!" but the seriousness of these statements can really grab your heart if you allow them. For we all are loved by God, everyone you see at every moment in every day, everywhere! is loved by God Himself, just as you are loved. And we all have sin in our life. the only thing that makes us, as believers, different than anyone else that we see, is not how much God loves us, but instead, how much we allow His love into us, and how much we allow it to penitrate our souls!

My Rich Town

2005-11-13T10:06:00.000-08:00

So last night I went to the mall (which is where my gym is). I just thought I would share what I saw when i came out, in order to give you an idea of the type of town Im living in now.

In the Valet parking I saw 3 newer, upper scale Mercedes, a brand new BMW 6 series, a new Lambrugini (sp?), and a brand new Bently. The other parts of the parking lot had all sorts or Land Rovers and more Mercedes and BMWs and fancy Escalades...

...I saw them all personally as I rode by on my bike.

YEAH!

2005-11-11T23:05:00.000-08:00

YEAH! _ MY _ NEW _ SHIRT _ ARRIVED _ TODAY!

IT _ ROCKS _ YOUR _ WORLD! _ DON'T _ LIE!

New Walk

2005-11-10T22:27:00.000-08:00

So I had a revelation that developed over the past couple of days:

I realized that when I like a girl and I find she might like me back, I get excited (as most people do) but then I start trying to live my life in a manner that would hopefully increase my chances to "win over" the girl. Thus I start conforming to things she says and opinions she has and I temporarilly lose my own Identity. Then the girl becomes dis-interested and I lose my chance and I have to weed out all those things that I brought on, so that I can become myself again.

Well no more! I have decided to let my relationship with God and my walk with Him speak for me. This will only change as He wills it, so I will end up being more stable and happy in both the short and the l o n g run. If someone doesnt like my walk or what my life says, then thats fine, obviously nothing was meant to come of it. If someone doesnt like it, but they respect it, then we will probably be able to get something from each other. And if someone does like it, then we are at the start of a beautiful relationship of some level.

Here's to following the advise of the "experts" and to being myself!

And! tonight, at work, Matt and I got a chance to pray for His brother and family, as well as for wourselves and our walks. We were joined by his roommate Jeff and an elder lady named GayLynn LoveJoy (what a fun name!) It was just an awesome time of prayer. Its hard to explain when God moves in your heart in a direction. I can hardly explain it to myself, but i know God is good and He's doing something inside me, for my benifit, and in turn, the benifit of those who are in my life. It's going to be, and already is, GREAT!

Two Things

2005-11-10T01:07:00.000-08:00

So I recently heard someone speak. Forgive me that I can't remember his name or even where I heard it, but I remember the point and I thought I should share...

As the bible teaches, God is All-Knowing, All-Powerful, and All-Over. However the bible apparently (I emphesis this word) contradicts itself, because it also tells us of two things that God does not know.

Does anyone know what those two things are? (if you do and others havent had a chance to think, please dont ruin it).

This is not a joke... its acctually extraordinarily important to know... I'll tell you all later if no one jumps the gun. Take some time and think about it. Try to come up with a serious thought about this.

Early Holiday

2005-11-09T22:03:00.000-08:00

So I just got home from the ALC at my school. This years focus was worship as a pathway to Healing. It was really powerful, Especially tonight. There was really an impartation that happened while the church prayed for each other. Also while Dr. Jim Garlow preached and taught.

I got A LOT out of this conference and its almost difficult to remember it all. I'll have to spend a while hournaling the things God has done for me personally, in regards to taking the teachings and personally applying them to my own life in the right areas. I'll find a way to share this in more detail with you, but for know just know that it was great.

It felt like the Holidays had come early tonight. It's been raining off and on here through the whole day. So it had that winter weather. then I had a bunch of family from San Diego with me. I was wearing a sweater! It was some new Holiday for me.... I cant wait to be home for Christmas! the best/worst part was me and Mama J saying good bye and just crying on each other for a few minutes.... aww I love her!

Watch Out!

2005-11-07T21:55:00.000-08:00

So I've noticed that in the recent history of my circle of friends, we all seem to be going through a time of cleaning. We're tired of the dust we have and we've decided to do something about it, myself included. This is very exciting for me to see the mulitiple people (so to those reading who Im talking about... know that its out there in our circle beyond you and me).

Im excited because of what I see happening at the end of these seasons if we are all dilligent to see them through. I truely believe this: a time of great elevation is happening in our realm of spirituality. People are gonna step it up in their personal lifes and that will overflow into ministry, like never before in their (your) life. Its not that the desire wasnt there, but something needed to be broken through, and that time has come. Its happening now as we all clean out our prayer closets and become Holy.

Dear friends, pray for each other and lift them up before God's throne. there must be a reason that we are all going through this at relatively the same time.

To those who arent going through this: dont feel left out and try to force the issue in your life. It will come around when God decides that you're ready to do it. Be aware of the state you're in and do your best to line up with where you believe God wants to now, but dont force it. It only comes by the grace of God the Father, through His Spirit, in the Authority of Christ the Son.

Follow Up

2005-11-02T22:33:00.000-08:00

Random thought... some of you could say, well sure, Jesus was God, He only needed three years to complete His ministry. So let's find more realistic examples...

Ezekial was called to be a prophet at age 30, after he was already on a path to be a priest.

Most of the Disciples (who did an enormous amount of work) were probably late 20's early thirties (except for John, it is believed that he was probably about 20-23)

Paul was a high priest before he was called by Jesus, so you know he had to have put some time in.

there are a lot of other examples, as well as people in the bible who started in their early 20's.

Its really just about going on the path you believe God has laid before you. Constantly seaking Him, and He will direct your path. His word promises it...

A New Flu Bug???

2005-11-01T15:01:00.000-08:00

So over the past couple days I have read some of your blogs and I seem to have picked up on a common theme: Feeling like you've wasted your 18, 19, 20 year life. It seems like a flu that everyone has caught. The "I've wasted my life" bug.

I completely understand what you guys are feeling. I've been there, and sometimes I go back there. But lately I have really been able to fight off that feeling. I hope by sharing this, some of you will be helped as well...

Let us not forget that Jesus didnt start his public ministry until age 30. THIRTY! I bring that up, because that is still 6 years away for me, and many more than that for a lot of you. Think about how much can happen in the course of just one year. This year for example, 2005 (which isnt even over yet), I took my first trip out of the country to two countries in Europe (England and Italy) and I moved away from home to finish my BA in Counseling. Now granted, that is only two events, but look at how major each one is; and there was also opportunity for more, but it just didnt pan out...

Of course some of you are feeling jealous that I got to experience these things, and maybe that will help drive you, but that wasnt my point in sharing. It was to hopefully show that A LOT can happen in the course of merely 365 days.

The key is to take risks and jump at opportunities. Also have people around you to keep you grounded, but at the same time let you explore and fly when the time is right.

Dont lose heart at such a young age, let us all just take one day at a time and make the most of each. Remember: God doesnt have to allow you to wake up each morning... so let's thank Him for the day we have, use it to the fullest, and not live in yesterday! Praise God!

You're Strange... get over it!

2005-10-26T23:22:00.000-07:00

So I had the freakiest dream I've ever had in my life, last night. For those who know me, you know I dont get scared easily at all and I woke up totally freaked out. I've told some of you the dream, if I havent told you, you probably dont want to know, just know that i was freaked!

It came on the heels of my roommate and I praying over my room and annointing it with oil. I think that had something to do with it, although Im not sure on what level. Well after a while of praying i was able to sleep again and move on.

It's done something inside me though. I started to watch a preview for a new horror movie coming out, and I couldnt get through it. Not because i was scared, but because I could sense my spirit grieving at being opened to it. So I stopped. Instead, I picked up my bible and read.
1 Peter!

Fantastic book. It got me thinking on a few things, one I thought I'd share. I have been wrestling a bit lately with the idea of how to reach my friends for God. I always thought that it is easiest to reach them if they like me, and I dont offend them with my refusal to participate in certain actions. Please understand that I didnt jsut go along with sin. But I figured i could be around it with-out participating and try to be a light. But it hit me that by doing that I am fulfilling the example taught about putting your light under the box. Its not meant for that. i am more of an example by just steering clear of those activities. then I read tonight 1 peter 2:11-12 "abstain from fleshly lusts which war against the soul, having your good conduct honorable among the Gentiles, that when they speak against you as evildoers, they may, by your good works which they observe, glorify God in the day of visitation". God basically translated this to me to mean that while the unbelievers speak evil of the good you do, they will actually by unknowingly proclaming the good you do. Its kinda like those Arab countries that showed the movie The Passion, becasue they thought it was preaching against the jews. they unknowingly preached the gospel to millions!
Then....
1 Peter 4:4 "they will think it strange that you do not rn with them in the same flood of dissipation, speaking evil of you". This basically assured that we are all strange in the eyes of the world, and they're gonna talk smack, but in light of the previously mentioned verse.... its all good. but we have to make sure that the things they say about us actually line up with God's word, otherwise its all for not.

Pressing On

2005-10-25T00:55:00.000-07:00

So I went to Elevate Sunday night (the college service). Its Pastored by two guys, Pastor Alex Michelle and Pastor Leaf Somethingorother. Anyway... we're going through a series about people in the bible who were really effective in their twenties and we continued a previous message tonight on Josiah (awesome dude!).

(the guy inbetween the raised hands, playing bass is my friend Matt. He looks like David Crowder without the goatee. He's awesome!)

Well we were doing praise and worship and I just wasnt into it. I felt like a fraud again. I dont know what it is lately, but I feel like Im one of the ones Jesus refers to that say "'Lord Lord we did all these great things in your name.' and He will say to them 'depart from me I never knew you'". Or like one of those resounding gongs/symbals that Paul refers to in 1 Cor. 13.

Praise God I was able to move beyond it. I finally heard God speaking to me and He told me something that I believe is true of us all: While there are certain apsects of worship that are universal, how they manifest themselves physically differs from person to person and from time to time. Sometimes the crowd has raised hands, but in my heart I just want to be still and know that He is God. Other times Im the only one with raised hands, or the only one clapping. And its okay!
(as long as Im not being a distraction. God likes things to be orderly in the church).

Anyway... I know we all go through those times, so I wanted to share what God told me, maybe it will help someone else. Look for my next paper on "The Church". Its turning out to be a bit more difficult than the previous two.

Take Note!

2005-10-21T23:45:00.000-07:00

So I was randomly killing time and surfing the web and I ran across this picture...

Women take note. When you are married, or even engaged (but probably safer to wait until marriage) KISS YOUR MAN LIKE THIS! I dont mean all the time. But when the opportunity presents itself... TAKE IT!

I dont remember ever getting kissed like this (probably a good thing) but Im sure I would like it! I mean what man wouldnt???

Someday... with the right woman, I believe it will happen. I gotta keep hope alive, ya know!

(by the way this is Rachel McAdams and Ryan Gosling during an award show, where The Notebook recieved something)

Judges

2005-10-19T23:37:00.000-07:00

Has anyone read the stories in Judges? I havent... but tonight in my class we looked at a couple and they were awesome stories!

One judge was called to kill this king. the judge was left handed, so when he put a knife on his thigh, it was the opposite as the masses (he used his right thigh, for his left hand; normal was the left thigh for the right hand). Since it was this way, the guards of the king didnt notice the knife. He then proceeded to the king, proclaiming "I have a message for you from God". So the king made everyone else leave their presence. The Judge then drew his knife and stabbed the king. Now the King was so FAT that when he was stabbed, the knife was engulfed in fat and couldnt be seen! So the the judge walked out and the guards just thought he was going to use the bathroom, so they didnt think abything of it. then after a while they checked on the king only to find him dead and the judge gone!

How crazy is that! that's out of the bible! dont believe me.... go read it! Judges 3:15-26

Fleeting Moments

2005-10-19T23:24:00.000-07:00

As I talk with my friends I fidn it to be more and more true: the closer we draw to God, the less satisfying everything else becomes. Part of my rejoices in this, but the reality of the matter is that it can possibly make for a very depressed exsistance. Its impossible, maybe just improbable, that we will constantly expereince His love like I did last night, but thats what i long for, as I find we all do.

It becomes hard to do things for God because you never feel worthy, but at the same time we cant do nothing, because that isnt right. We arent ruled by our emotions (or at least shouldnt be) but its hard to rule them. When I do something for God and I dont feel 100% into it I feel like an imposter. I know Im not, becasue of the assurance of faith that i have in Him, but the feeling lingers there. I dont think Im doing anything wrong, per say, but I dont know what else to do, and there must be something more...

I often want to jump into extremes... I just read today about "The New Monsasticism". This is a new movement in which groups of people give up their seat of position to be homeless in order to reach those masses and make a difference. Its a long road, but one with much fruit! Its definately not for the faint of heart or faith. and its not even for everyone who COULD do it. As I read the article I noticed that these "missionaries", really, seem to have something I dont and I want it. So of course my thought is to run off and join them, but God gently tells me that's not right for me right now, maybe later, but there is that inckling that it wont happen. However, I still admire them and want what they have.

God is so satisfying and nothing else compares. Paul found contentment in everything, while I cant really seem to find contentment in anything...

...except those few fleeting moments where God's love consumes me, like last night. But I dont feel I did anything to usher that in. God just did it out of His love for me and a friend of mine I was talking with. I just pray for more...

So Beyond!

2005-10-19T00:50:00.000-07:00

Who can describe God's goodness? Its so awesome!

I dont know what it was about today or tonight, or what, but His Love has consumed me.

I dont want to go to bed because I want to keep this forever and going to bed seems to be the end of things that happened today...
...why cant I seem to carry it on from day to day? God's the same and He's still there... hmm...

He is soo Good. All the words in all the languages cant compare to how god he is. Next to Him, food is tasteless, colors are non-exsistant, feelings feel cheap.

He is so beyond, I cant get over it... nor do I want to.

Day and night they never stop saying: "Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty, who was, and is, and is to come." Whenever the living creatures give glory, honor and thanks to him who sits on the throne and who lives for ever and ever, the twenty-four elders fall down before him who sits on the throne, and worship him who lives for ever and ever. They lay their crowns before the throne and say: "You are worthy, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things, and by your will they were created and have their being." Revelation 4:8-12 (emphasis and bold added)

Mission Accomplished!

2005-10-16T22:42:00.000-07:00

So today was a productive day... went to church at 11:15 (15 minutes late). Pastor Jack Hayford spoke today! Awesome word! then I came home a nd read homework and took a nap. then I went to the 18-28 year old service. Another Awesome word! Pastor Alex [last name here] spoke. It was my first time there. He is very dynamic. Reminds me a bit of Myles McPherson, but not quite that good, but close!

He just started a series tonight about people in the bible who were very pivitol during their third decade (20's). We talked about Josiah tonight, who, ever since I heard of him, is one of my favorites. Well even more so after tonight! I'll try to put some notes together for those who want to know more without putting the work in themselves (that's me sometimes).

Then I came home and finished my paper that was due Friday (I got an extension to Monday). And it's only 10:30pm, so now Im off to the gym. It's been a great day, I hope you all can say the same. God Bless-

3 Things

2005-10-14T18:16:00.000-07:00

1) Do y'all not read my posts out there or do you just not comment? I cant tell, but a comment here or there might be nice, just to know if Im writing this to myself or anyone else out there.

2) I was unloading a cart at work today, and a lady needed to get by to use our phone (behind) the counter to call her husband. She proceeded to almost walk over me to get to it, as oppose to waiting a couple seconds for me to get out of the way. I had to get Firm! I was like "Hold On! Let me move this cart and get out of your way first!" DANG! I HATE THAT! I DONT NEED YOU ALL UP IN MY SPACE TO KNOW THAT YOU WANNA GET BY! it just bugged me...

3) So I met my boss' daughter today (Bom bom bom!!!). She just waltzed into the cafe "looking for her dad". Well there was no real reason to be there, supposedly she wanted to try a latte her dad makes, but its kinda out of her way... rumor is, she came to meet me. (Since her dad [my boss] has mentioned me to her). Everyone there wondered why I didnt ask her out or hit on her. Here's my reason, let me know what you think: I didnt want to be everyone's entertainment. All sorts of people seem to know that I have been interested to meet her, so when she came in, they were interested, again, to see how it was going to go down. It really bugged me. Dont people have their own life so thay dont have to focus on mine, or hers. Get over it! This isnt some sort of circus where Nicole and Benjamin are the main attraction.
If that choice blew any chance I had to get to know her, then so be it. I didnt want that to be the environment where I started to get to know her. Whatever...

Gratitude

2005-10-13T22:25:00.000-07:00

I just got off "work". Where I ate a chicken pot pie, read my book, and checked e-mail and so on. Thank God for His blessings on me. I love the jobs he supplies for me. Anyway...

So as I read my book for my homework (due tomorrow, but I was given an extension) I ran across a passage that made me think, and I thought should be shared with anyone who wanted to hear.

The book is Healing by Francis MacNutt. And the context of the passage is in a chapter about "Deliverance and Exorcism".

"One woman wrote after praying for deliverance:
You might have some idea how very, very important this is to me - a matter of life and death. My gratitude will take the form of total surrender to God. At last I have the ability to open to him completely with-out the old obstacles keeping me from him."
(emphasis added)

It made me wonder about myself. My salvation was/is a matter of life and death. How do I show gratitude toward God? I'd like to say that I am surrendered to Him, but I know this is not completely true. I pray that this would change, much like it has for a dear friend of mine.

Please note that is you have not surrendered to Him, this is not meant as condemnation, but hopefully as an eye opener to how much his gift cost him. He gave up everything, inorder that we could have everything.

Thanks be to God on high!

Candle Lite

2005-10-11T20:15:00.000-07:00

I decided tonight to go a little old school and set a mood to study by. When I moved in, I was stoked to learn that I had a fireplace, but upset to learn that it didnt work, so this is me making it work: candles! (nevermind the retarded one on the front left, it doesnt want to lite. and the pipe in the middle is the gas line).

I have a ton of studying to to, after all this is midterms week, but I have been drawn to the Lord in that the beginning of all knowledge, wisdom and understanding begin with a fear of Him (Proverbs and Psalms). If I dont give him that time he deserves then i will simply not learn anything lasting. I can learn a limited amount on my own, but its nothing compared to what he has for me.

For those who read this tonight or tomorrow, I could use prayer for my tests and for being wise and responsible with my time to study and take care of all my other deeds through out the day. I appreciate you all. I use to think that was such a cliche to say "God Bless", but I really do pray God's blessings upon you. I guess if its from the heart nothing is cliche.

Much Love and God Bless!

Goethe got it!

2005-10-11T00:31:00.000-07:00

A very dear friend of mine and i were talking tonight. She told me of a revalation she's had about her life. I tlak about it becaue I hope that it is a revalation that we could all be so fortunate to grasp hold of. In short it boils down to this: "If you want to attract a better crowd around you, you need to be a better person". You will not attract people who are on higher levels, only the same level or below. Notice that we are all drawn to people that we think are on a higher level than us, but it doesnt seem like they are drawn to us.

In an effort to help those around you become better people I would like to bring out a quote by Goethe (pronounced Gerta) "If you treat an individual as he is, he will stay as he is, but if you treat them as they were what they could be and ought to be, he will become what he could be and ought to be". Again, in short, we will conform to how others treat us/ others will conform to how you treat them. If you treat them like they are worth nothing, they will begin to behave like they are worth nothing (or hopefully they wont hang around you anymore).

I was so proud of my friend, I cant even begin to explain, because it sounds like she got it and it wasnt just a surface grasping. Myself, I have only had a surface understanding, but she has inspired me to think on it more deeply and to engrain in into my heart and I would encourage you all to so so as well.

God Bless

God's word will complete...

2005-10-10T23:07:00.000-07:00

His word will complete in me what it set out to do. Thank God! With my continueing revelations i have decided to rename some things associate with this blog, namesly my title and my site. In a couple of days here, I will be changing it to ongoingwork.blogspot.com So make note, those of you who check me out. Make sure the word gets aroundto those who maybe dont check it that much, but you've seen on here.

Thanks... here we go...

ATTENTION ALL!

2005-10-06T02:57:00.000-07:00

Im tired of fitting into people's perspectives of me! I've decided that I am going to be who I am and if I want your opinion I'll ask for it. Otherwise, when you give your opinion, all you're really trying to do is to make someone change INTO your opinion. Sharing an opinion is never without motive to change or reinforce something. Think about it! What do you feel when you share your opinion with someone who obviously doesnt agree. You're sharing withthe hope that they will see your point and change.

Well Im making a declaration tonight (this morning) and Im asking the questions that are on my mind. When did being blunt become a bad trait to have? Why do people get so freakin upset when you show your true colors, especially if they dont fit into the picture they have of you?

I was going to start another blog, and actually did under an alias. That way I could type what I really wanted and not have to be afraid of offending people or causing them to doubt who I am, but i have decided that to do that would be a hypocracy. I would be lying about who i am so I can tell the truth. So what I have decided to do is to drop my fear of making mistakes and causing problems. And Im going to do it in plain view of everyone. Dont look to me as an example. Im bound to offend some people, but at lease I wont be faking it. It's healthy to make mistakes, thats how we learn. Its not an excise to be stupid though. We are still responsible for our actions, but why not be responsible for the actions you really want to take as opposed to being responsible for the actions you take because others tell you its right and good. Again! If I want your opinion, I'll ask for it. If I dont ask, please dont share, unless you are ready for me to share mine. And I probably am not going to change due to random opinions. I'll change due to the ones I ask for. (feel free to share your opions on this, but dont expect much in return). I know this may come off harsh to some and Im willing to talk about why Im doing what Im doing, but please understand I dont really feel negative about this at all.

I make no appologies for any of this. There is no reason to appologize if you're being real. And if you're being real all the time and people get upset, then thats on them. I find no biblical example of people being told to appologize. The closest I see is simply settling problems you have with your brother, but there is nothing about renouncing or recanting your actions (if youwere wrong then you learn and move on, but if you were behaving how you thought was right, even if it ended up being wrong, I dont believe there is a need to appologize). I do however find multiple examples of people being told to be honest, and genuine, and how the truth will set us free! And those who God sets free are free indeed. I am now starting to enjoy my freedom, no appologies necessary.

AAAAAAHHHHH

2005-10-05T02:26:00.000-07:00

OK so I have a couple papers due and like 3 tests in the next few weeks, so Im probably gonna ignore this until Im done, but I guess we'll have to wait and see. Im kinda behind, but not really, not too bad anyway. I just need to buckle down and do what I need to do, for those back hoome, I'll be there this week-end. See ya all at church.

Random

2005-10-02T22:28:00.000-07:00

So not much happened the past couple of days, so here's the random crap...

I've seen commercials for a new car coming out that has and air-cooled glove box. I WANT ONE OF THOSE! But it would be kinda pointless when I sell my car. I'll just walk around with a glove box and it would probably be more trouble than it's worth at this point. Oh well... Someday

I went and checked out that Blues Club on Saturday night. It was pretty cool. I love good live music, even though it wasnt totally by style of blues it was enjoyable, fun music. I played pool and listened to music. I played pool with a guy from New Orleans who came out here 5 days after Katrina. Really nice guy, with his girlfriend. Anyway I'll definately go back later on.

The Good Test (Pissed Off!)

2005-10-01T02:24:00.000-07:00

So I went to Santa Monica's 3rd street pavillion tonight and got to witness to some people on the street. It was awesome. For those back home: remember the video from discipleship class "The Good Test" (Have you ever lied? what does that make you?) Well they were filming that on the 3rd street prominade tonight and every Friday night apparently.

WHAT AN EXPERIENCE! To say the least. That video we saw was really really really edited! Let me start by saying that I think that video is a great tool, and I believe these guys are Christians, but I believe they are confused on some issues. They were basically inciting a riot on purpose. Their goal and objective is to preach the law and instill a fear of God. So when they were pissing people off, my friends (Matt and Angela) and I went around and picked up the pieces. We took people aside and gave them respect and answers and listened to them, instead of pissing them off. Please note that when someone is upset or too excited, the endorphines that are pumped into your brain make it physiologicaly impossible to think rationally. So for them to piss people off on purpose then try to share the good news after that, is an endless ignorant fight!

I believe that a fear of God is necessary. A knowledge of the law is necessary. But I believe Christ went around preaching and healing, in an effort to show God's heart of LOVE for his people. Romans 2:4 "God's goodness leads men to repentance". I cant recall one time when Christ tried to instill fear, except when it came to the pharasies and others who's hearts were heardened.

Once I found out that they opperated out of a Calvinist view, it all made sense. (For those who dont know what Calvinists believe, ask your pastor. If you dont have one, e-mail me and I can tell you, but I dont want to write too much of a book tonight.) I still had a great time doing my small part to find the good soil of people's hearts and planting seeds. I look forward to the next time I witness to people on the street, whether around "the good test" or not.

Anyway, it was and experience to say the least... like I previously said. God Bless...

God is FREAKIN GOOD!

2005-09-30T00:17:00.000-07:00

I just have to do a praise report. (I guess that's what this would be). I am already learning so much up here and we've only had 3 weeks of classes. Its not even that Im learning new stuff completely, although some of it is new. Mostly its just that stuff Im hearing or reading is really making my image of God solid and uncompromising. Right now it's just a focus on who he is in regards to healing people, and then also about the Holy Spirit and His role in everything, and who he is. Through all this learning, I feel i am really developing more of a heart for people who don't know truely how good God is. I want to speak out to everyone I see (I dont yet, due to confidence and a lack of assurance that it is God directing me to), but my heart goes out to them, like I believe God's does. Im amazed at Him! This is so great! It's work, but its also revelation through the work I do.

My plan is to keep some sort of journal of what I am learning/ realizing/ clarifying up here, so that I may share it with everyone clearly when I get the chance. I am also getting ready to write a couple of papers for classes and it's my desire to make them accessable to anyone who wants to read them. If anyone has ideas please let me know and I'll keep you all posted as to what develops. I love you all and pray right now that God would truely give you a revelation of His Abounding Love for you and your neighbor. Amen!

FoosDream

2005-09-29T01:13:00.000-07:00

So I cant get my picture to upload on here, if you really want to see it the google "foosball maze" you'll see my dream come to life. Its a foosball table for teams of like 12 on 12. It's FREAKIN GREAT! I'll keep tryin, but until then you'll have to look it up. Sorry
P.S. Make sure to use Google IMAGES.

Go Dubya!

2005-09-29T01:09:00.000-07:00

It's good to see our President suporting such and up and coming sport but who's the other guy? and why are there three on one side (there should only be two, unless you look at my dream table above)?

Foosball

2005-09-29T00:52:00.000-07:00

So I dont have much to type about today, but i feel the urge to keep you updated. I spend HOURS today playing foosball! Just killin time between classes and the great thing is is that I am the foosball jedi master up here. It's great! I love it and its not one of those games you can play by yourself like pool, you need someone to make it worth while, and there are others up here who enjoy playing (and apparently losing, because I rock!). I have a protege too. His name is Bill and he's in two of my classes. When we first started, he wasnt really good at all, but now he can beat most everyone else he plays, even me a couple of times here and there.
Girls: if you want to get a guys attention then be good at foosball. I promise that at least 7 out of 10 guys enjoy playing. It'll totally work, but it might backfire because then he'll just want to do that all the time. It's totally addicting to play.
So I think I have two girls up here with crushes on me. Both are youngins though and Im not the least interested in either, but alas they still look at me that way. Can I help it that God made me so dang appealing to the opposite sex? I just wish it was with girls my own age and maturity level... ah well...

Music vs Calling

2005-09-26T23:41:00.000-07:00

A guy from school is staying at our house tonight. His name is Travis and he totally rocks at guitar. He was just jammin in our living room and I am totally jealous. Its hard to realize that God has called me to counseling, when I want to be called to music. I have such a passion to learn music, but it has to be secondary to my calling. I know its better in the long run, and God will fulfill that desire eventually, but I want it now! I want it now! I want it now!

So anyway! I was inspired to make a wish list and I got a bit crazy, but here it is...

http://froogle.google.com/shoppinglist?a=SWL&id=c3d6381e2668fd9beb5fad2d392ccb68ffa784

Revalation

2005-09-26T19:28:00.000-07:00

So I totally forgot to share my revalation last night about myself. I realized that Im not a very social person, when it comes to strangers. I like being out in social environments, but dont necessarily like trying to meet people there. I would rather just hang with people I know and keep to ourselves. Is anyone else like this? Maybe it's just me...

Private Party

2005-09-26T01:47:00.000-07:00

So, Im getting reality checks here and there that I live in LA, just outside of Hollywood. A few weeks ago I saw Keynan Ivory Waynes at my gym, working out. Then last Wednesday I saw Alec Baldwin at my gym working out. Its kinda cool to know that they go to regular gyms and stuff like the rest of the world.
Tonight was and experience. I started off by going to study, but quickly ended up going to a bar with some friends of mine from up here. It was a little dive bar off Sunset Blvd. It was Kareoke (sp?) and all the people there reminded me of Brent Crobarger and Matt Pauley, but they were into the 80's rock and stuff like that. Not really my scene at all, so I split early and headed back to town. Backing up, earlier today I noticed a live blues bar in town, only a couple miles from my house. I've been wanting to find something like that, so I was excited.
So when I split early tonight, I decided to stop by the blues place (called: Cozy's) and see what it was like. As I got ready to walk through the door, I started talking to the bouncer about whether there is a cover or not and he informed me that it was a private party tonight, being hosted by Justin Timberlake, so I was not allowed in. (I figure if I put his name large and in bold italics, then maybe people would take the time to read all this) So I unintentionally almost crashed JT's party. If I wasnt more interested in finding out what the place was like i would have tried to weasel my way in, but instead I talked to the bouncer and found out that the bar is pretty good for blues, some bigger names come here on weekend to perform, but any night of the week is good to come.
So Im happy... and that is the story of my third encounter with a celebrity during my < one month up here.

tattoo two... technically tat one I guess

2005-09-25T01:35:00.000-07:00

here's my chest (well part of it...) its my tattoo since I was 18

yin yang = balance

cross = God

heart = love

tree = growth

sun = energy

Tattoo

2005-09-25T01:02:00.000-07:00

Well my other picture wasnt working, so here's a picture of what i want my next tattoo to be, its still a work in progress. Please keep in mind that I don't claim to have any artistic talent...

ME!

2005-09-25T00:35:00.000-07:00

YEAH! My good friend Jessyca edumacated me on getting a photo on here! In this photo, driving was secondary compared to showing off my new LA style glasses... Im trying to fit in.

Pics

2005-09-25T00:20:00.000-07:00

So why does everyone have a cool picture except me?! And why do the guys on here look like models! Is there a professional blog photographer who makes everyone look good? Anyone have his/her number?
OK, glad i got that off my chest.... whew!

Gestures

2005-09-10T01:50:00.000-07:00

I had a conversation with my friend Jessyca the other day, about internet chatting. I am just as guilty as the next person, but it cracks me up when people type gestures (i.e *hug*, *pats on back*, *kiss*) I can kinda understand the ones that are vocal commands (i.e. *sighs*, *laughs*, *coughs*) but actual gestures? Sit back and think about that for a minute, you'll see how rediculous it really is. Just try to talk to someone like that in person: "How's is going today? hug. Im glad to see you again. sits in chair. Its been so long. puts hand on leg."
Maybe its just me...

My first time

2005-09-10T00:45:00.000-07:00

Hey there all! Who's all?! Im not exactly sure because I haven't told anyone Im here yet, but for those who 'stummble across my blog. Welcome! I'll get more detailed as we go along our journey together, but for now I'm just posting so I can adjust my settings and stuff... ciao for now.