Close ups

So I quit my job, sold my house and went travelling

2008-08-27T09:21:00.005-06:00

Over the next 4 months - as we travel through England, France, Spain, Italy, Greece, Turkey, Switzerland and Austria we will be sharing our adventures with you. That's right. YOU!
Feel free to live vicariously through our blog or better yet, take a similar trip yourself.

To christen our travels we have begun a new blog in its honor. Please go there now as Angie and I will be updating it regularly. We even shelled out for a swanky new camera so you'll be able to see what we see, for the most part. We don't leave for another 23 days but the posting has already begun. Please visit us often and be liberal with your comments. It'll help us feel. .. connected. As far as this particular blog goes, it too will be taking 4 months off so please let it vacay in peace.

Many thanks to our good friend Kyle Nielsen for the excellent blog title. It looks good man.

See you in the New Year everyone! We hope to be back in Calgary so come visit us. The first 100 to do so will recieve travel vouchers. And by vouchers we mean sticks of gum or those little candy hearts.

http://www.closesineurope.blogspot.com/

John and Ang

Pasty Olympians / Dining in Heaven

2008-08-26T13:37:00.015-06:00

The Olympics ended with our country finally flexing their Canadian Beef. 18 medals is great and we should feel proud of our 300+ that laid off good food and TV for 4 years only to lose out on a medal by a fingertip and then get judged by their own blackberry carrying, escalator riding, uncultured, unfeeling, fatty countrymen. (dial 119 for the Harsh Police). Our Olympic athletes are heroes. Nothing less. Except for the 50km speed walkers. They're kinda wierd.

How is this an event let a lone an OLYMPIC event?? I watched it for like 40 min one day, it was a stay inside lazy day ok, and damn - its intense. I wondered at one point how a person might qualify for such an event, especially since it requires SO much skill. I've narrowed it down to 3 qualifications:

1. Must be white.

2. Must have been bullied all through grade school.

3. Must currently be homosexual.

Come to think of it, some of you could have qualified. Ha ha, jk.

Moving on now. (remember 119)

I'm not sure what to think of Heaven. I'm pretty sure Hell involves speed walking while listening to Joel Osteen podcasts but heaven, that's a mystery. Some think its a literal place, others think its a state of mind, others think its all around us while others think its a myth. I usually vascilate between all these things although after Sunday, heaven may be a little more clear.

As my family and I descended the stairs leading into our church fellowship hall the word surprise came flying toward us. We stopped dead when we realized that the 175 mouths were open and smiling directly at us. Turns out, our good friends Ty and Hope had thrown us an EPIC going away party and had invited all our dear friends. You can't prepare for moments like these. All I can say is it felt like Heaven as we walked into a thunderous applause before finally managing to take our seats. The night continued on wonderfully for another 3 hours and I haven't laughed and cried that much in a very long time. Besides all the great food, humbling words and Epic video by Ty, our church proved that money can grow on trees. We were able to use that money towards a 12 day mediterranean Cruise of a lifetime that will hit such cities as Rome, Florence, Naples/Pompeii, Athens, Olympia, Izmir and Istanbul, among others. Italy, Greece and Turkey. AHHHHHHHHHHHHH! (that's my excited scream). The most amazing thing about the cruise is we had really wanted to go to Greece and Turkey on our trip but had ruled it out due to the cost. We will always remember that night as the time we dined in heaven. And we will always be thankful for friends like the ones here. The kind that love you more than you deserve.

Thank you Maryvale. You had me at "you're hired."

John

Shameful Canada

2008-08-18T09:44:00.003-06:00

If it wasn't for the weekend, many would have called Canada's performace at this years' Olympics shameful. But thanks to our rowers and fiesty woman we have secured 9 medals in the span of 72 hours, finally surpassing Michael Phelps. If Canada continues its impressive roll, we could reach double digits before Bejing returns to its smog and human rights violations. Fingers crossed.

The Olympics celebrate the best one has to offer. Over the past 2 weeks, I've watched Canada's athletes give of theirs. Obviously not you say, else they'd won some more medals eh. Perhaps. Or. Perhaps not. When Mike Brown squeezed into his spandex last week (a process that takes 30 min) he wasn't competing against the Japanese Champion on his left and the Australian on his right. He was competing against the champion in the middle. (hint: its himself). All Mike was focused on was swimming faster then he had ever swam before knowing if he could just do that, he would have a shot at a medal.

The amazing thing about OUR Olympians is the majority of them have eclipsed personal bests while shattering Canadian records. Unfortunately, due to the stiff competition from the rest of the world, it hasn't always resulted in a medal. For instance, in the 200 metre breastroke Mike shattered the Canadian record yet still managed to miss a medal by .09 of a second. Point. Zero. Nine. A whole fingertip. In the 4x200 freestyle our 4 Canadian swimmers obliterated the Canadian record by 8 seconds yet still missed out on a medal.

Shameful? Really? Perhaps the shame lies with us.

John

My Mom's up there

2008-08-13T14:40:00.011-06:00

First off, Phelps is ridiculous. Nobody's that good.

Second, Canada is ridiculous. Nobody's that bad.

Third, my littlest Lex lost her first tooth the other night. We are a plastic only house and it was after 9pm when it happened so poor Lex got snubbed in the financial department. Oh and the Tooth Fairy doesn't work after 9pm either. (that was my excuse). Before you rain down the judgement, she was amply rewarded the following evening with a ziploc full of copper. Little Lex. Aww.

And now, the star of the blogning. . .My Mother. (Blogning, like evening but more fun)

My mom turned 60 today. That's a lot of life where I come from. Depending on how you look at things, she'll croak anyday or she's got a third left. For the record, I'm hoping for the latter, frogs are slimy. My mom is quite the specimen though. While most humans that age would be getting jacked about back menu specials she's just still perusing through lifes appetizers. In the past 5 years she has moved to another country, taken a high profile job at a university in the youth ministry department of all departments, completed a Masters degree and is currently halfway through a Doctorate program on her way to becoming a Shrinkette. Counselor. Plus she's competing in the Olympics. Fencing. You know what they say "the best fencer is a motha fencer." FYI -They are weird.

I've known my mom for 32 of her years and she's always been just what a son needs. If I was lacking confidence, she'd say I was the greatest, if it was 5am and I was hungry for some two eggs, she'd make em. If I was sick and had just puked all over her, my dad, their bed, she'd say "not to worry, I'll clean it up, you go back to bed." I always would you know. I always would. She was even there at my games to cheer loud enough so the other team could laugh and poke fun at me, the mother boy. It felt good. But her greatest gift was her listening ear. I was an immature messed up kid in my 12-31's so you can imagine the issues she was forced to help me deal with. No wonder she became a Shrinkette, decades of experience.

In the world of best mom's, mine's up there. Good and high.

Happy Birthday Mom. Don't burn down your house when you light the cake tonight.

Son

The Olympics. Meh or Yeh.

2008-08-08T09:21:00.009-06:00

Here's a riddle. They only come around every 4 years. The last one was 4 years ago. The next one begins today. What are they? Go here if you're not sure. And here.

I was awoken this morning by a middle child exclaiming "the Olympics, the Olympics are on." I rolled out of bed and headed for the living room just in time to catch the parade of athletes. A few minutes later Canada strolled out to a generous ovation. Thanks Beijing, unlike most schools, you had class today. My wife slunk into the room just in time to catch Canada and before long her Olympic tears began their quick descent down cheek mountain. I say her "Olympic tears" because every 2 years when the Olympics are on she wells up with emotion. It's strange actually. Let me explain by way of judgement and sarcasm.

I like sports. All kinds. If it was up to me they would always be on. The TV, the radio, even a live feed streaming directly into my retina. Angie on the other hand loathes them. She hates all the sports streams. For one, they "take her husband away from the family." But even more importantly "they are the most pointless thing on the planet not to mention a huge waste of time, money and effort." With that in mind, you can imagine my confusion each and every time the Olympic tears come out. She says its different. At least here they are competing for their country rather then for a cup or a team they'll ask to be traded from the following year. A solid point I must concede.

I rolled up to work this morning in my freshly washed car and once inside I began idle chit chat with the Administrative assistant. She used to be the secretary until human rights got involved. One of the things we chitted and chatted about was the said Olympics. I used my excitable voice when asking "the Olympics began today, are you gonna watch, are you, are you?" She replied, using her unimpressed voice -" no, I don't usually get into the whole Olympic thing but especially not this year when the host nation is guilty of crimes against their own people." A solid point I must admit, but still, its the Olympics.

Shortly after that TREMENDOUS let down I went online to check my morning Facebook. Once on, I engaged in some more idle chit chat with another she. A Chelshe. Using my excitable font I said "the Olympics are on." She said, and I quote, "OH, Meh." What is the deal with these silly women? Its the OLYMPICS. What do you mean MEH? I think Chelsey picked up on my horrified reaction which is why she said "its mostly the summer Olympics I don't like, the winter are ok." Wow. Chelsey is a fantastic wife to Peter, mother to Eva, follower of Jesus, photographer and friend/cousinkinda to me but when it comes to her Olympicness, wow girl, you're not off the hook, you're like so not fly or hot with it.

So yeah, the Olympics are on. Yeh!

John

Ok, 3 reasons. Flight of the Conchords rules!

2008-08-07T09:41:00.002-06:00

2 reasons to go out and buy this show

2008-08-06T22:52:00.000-06:00

I'm the Motha Flippin

2008-08-06T22:51:00.001-06:00

I actually found this kinda funny. It shows the current state of American Politics quite well.

2008-08-06T08:46:00.001-06:00

Paris Hilton Responds to McCain Adfunny videosFunnyOrDie.com

See more funny videos at Funny or Die

My firsts

2008-08-02T11:53:00.001-06:00

2.5 days. That's all I've been back for. Yet, in that time I've experienced 3 firsts. The first first was my house selling. Never before has that happened, ok sure, this is the first house I've owned but still… My second first is a daughter hitting double digits. No, I’m not talking about that gay roll the little ball up the ramp hoop game. My daughter turned 10. The third first is my beard. I think I'm growing one. I thought about shaving it off the other day but Angie piped up and said "I'm not a big fan of smooth baby faces; I like hair on my man." Thanks for waiting a decade to let me know babes. Kisses. It would be lame of me to drop 3 firsts without further explanation so here's a bit more. I'll go in reverse firsts order. The name’s Mr. Fun. Please to meet ya.

Now that I have a beard I feel a bit like the artsy thoughtful kid after receiving a ball glove from his clueless father. I don't grow cheek hair. I’m not that guy. I'm Mr. baby face. It's weird though, I feel like I need some sort of training or certification- at the very least a dependable grooming kit. Even if I get one, will I know how to use it? Or more importantly, when to use it? I fear I won't and I'll either wait too long becoming the dirty gross dude or I'll trim too soon and just confuse people – making them wonder if I'm just lazy. It's important I figure this out because the line separating white trash from sexy bad boy to distinguished mature beard man is only a shadow away. And as of right now, I'm not sure which image is worse.

I mentioned my daughter turned 10. She did indeed, July 31. It's weird having a daughter so old. I feel a bit like the artsy thoughtful kid after recieving a bat from his clueless father. I don't have kids in double digits. That's for old guys with beards. Oh I see now. I remember when Maddison was born. I was 22 and felt like a kid myself so seeing my own was amazing. I had wanted the name Maddison for a girl but Angie wasn't convinced until she saw her. I remember we chose the name Maddison because we wanted something unique. I know but seriously, in 1998 Maddison wasn't the household name it became in 1999. That was annoying.

I was still in school when Maddie was born and Angie worked half days doing home care so I was able to spend lots of time with her. We snuggled, read books, played games, went for walks and watched Pooh and Friends. She was a fantastic baby, the kind you could take out in the world. I remember one time, when she was like 6 weeks old, we took her to the theatre because we wanted to see the summer blockbuster Armageddon. To this day, it’s still the loudest movie I've seen yet Maddie slept through the entire thing. It was then I knew God had smiled on me. Or something. The truth is, Maddie is quite something. She is not the typical girl or even 10 yr old girl. She prefers reading and learning to most everything else and when all the other girls were dreaming of becoming a princess she dreamt of Archaeology. Truth be told she reminds me a lot of Rory from the Gilmore Girls. Maddie still maintains she’s gonna be an Archaeologist, which makes sense because both her parents had similar dreams. Europe is gonna rock her little world. All our worlds.

My last first was our house selling. I'd be a liar if I said it was a stress free process. Calgary has the reputation of being boom town which is fine if it was still 2005 but it's 2008 and the boom is over which only means KABOOM "nobody wants to pay good money for your house John and Angie." We listed our house after May long and in the end had to come down 25g's to get it done. BTW - if you have ever considered moving to Calgary, now's the time. You'll find hundreds of "motivated" sellers.

The good news though is we did sell which means our plans to travel are no longer just plans but reality. That being said, we did take a hit so we'll be cutting our trip in half, putting off Asia for another day. As disappointing as that is, we still get to travel Europe for 4 months so please save your empathy for Africa. We fly out September 19 and we should arrive back in Calgary mid January. From there nothing is for sure but I could see us ending up on the West Coast.

A lot of firsts this week. It’s been good.

John

My Birthday Present

2008-07-28T17:49:00.000-06:00

John's Birthday Present from Jordan on Vimeo.

What I learned from Ricardo

2008-07-24T15:14:00.007-06:00

As Ricardo sat in the dirt and sobbed I realized we had changed his life (at least for the moment). We had spent 5 intense days playing, singing, creating and learning with him and his 120 amigos. When we first arrived at the Rosarito Church we weren’t sure what to expect. Having been there before I had ideas, just no certainties. As we pulled in we looked for the throngs of el ninos. There were none. We piled out of the vans and with a guarded excitement strolled towards the doors leading into the church. SITTING inside were 70 el ninos (children) which brought immediate pleasure and surprise to the 11 el teenos and their leaders. For months, the ninos had been waiting for this moment, frequently asking Arturo “when the Canadians come in, when the Canadians come in. . .? We had arrived and excitement was in the air.

We ended each day as a team, sharing our highs and lows . For 45 minutes, 18 people spoke of things that both amazed and challenged them. “My high is seeing how happy the kids are with so little.” “My low is that we have to leave on Friday.” One morning I asked the team to share some of the things they had learned. A theme quickly emerged. “I’ve learned you don’t need stuff to be happy. All a person needs is family and friends.” As human beings, we know this to be true. In fact, we know this to be obvious. It’s just. . .

For 35 minutes, the teens tried unsuccessfully to calm Ricardo’s tears. When it became clear the well was not going to dry up anytime soon, I encouraged the teens to say their final goodbyes and gave Ricardo a hug of my own. We watched him stand up and begin to walk away, slowly disappearing down the dirt road. As he walked he frequently turned around to see if #1 – we were still there and #2 if we were still there. Of course we were, how could we go? I think I'll remember that walk forever. Slumped shoulders, head bowed low, legs dragging his wilted body forward. Just when he or we had seemingly survived the moment - he fell to his knees. A few moments later the teens emerged at his side, resuming the grieving once more. It was heartbreaking to watch and one of those moments you don’t forget.

Short term missions are rarely about THEM. We act like they are because it’s hard to raise funds “so WE can have a life changing experience” but ultimately, that is the reason we go. The impact of a sobbing Ricardo on a group of Western teenagers is far greater in the long run than any impact they’ll have on him. Ricardo will grow up and soon forget about that week in 2008 but the teens will never forget. It will forever be etched in their memories even when emotions no longer accompany it. I’ve lead 3 trips of this kind and people from the first trip still talk about Tijuana like it was yesterday. Something occurs deep inside of us when we meet people living a life we know to be true. Beyond the bare necessities, the kids have nothing. Their houses, clothes, roads, are all falling apart. They have no cell phones, computers, or trends. They’ve never checked their Facebook or received a text message. They have no tickets to watch their team or hats to show they cheer for one. They have no urge to see The Dark Knight. Yet in spite of all this, they don’t act like they are missing out or rage because of their unmet needs. They live like they have all they need. How is that possible we wonder? We wonder, yet we know.

As we rumbled past the Mexican border on our way to LA the scenery quickly changed from a dirty grey to a sparkling green - almost like we had passed through a dimension in time and ended up in paradise. We arrived at our Castle Hotel about 7pm and after checking in, we quickly departed to the local theatre to catch the premiere of The Dark Knight. We ended up getting tickets to the final showing at Midnight - which meant we now had 3 hours to kill in Disneyland. FRICK. jk. We ended up killing time by going to a restaurant in downtown Disney. Apparently the restaurant requires reservations months in advance but they fell for the charm that is The John and let all 18 of us in immediately. One of the teens that frequents the land of the Mick said "John, my mind is blown." haha, I do what I can teeno.

After the restaurant we went to the theatre to sit in line for an hour because as you all know, purchasing the ticket is only step 1 in the movie experience. The doors opened and hundreds of LA batman junkies poured into the theatre. The excitement level was high and remained high throughout the movie as the audience clapped and cheered throughout. The Joker was mesmerizing and I remember thinking I hadn't seen a performance of that magnitude in years. Mr. Ledger may very well become the 7th grave-dweller to secure an Oscar nomination. In fact, I predict he will.

We arrived back at the hotel just after 3am and after prog reports, we fell into a deep sleep. We woke up 3 hours later so we could enjoy the FULL Disneyland experience. Did we ever. 15 hours and 20 rides later we arrived back at the hotel even later and more exhausted then the night before. What a rush.

The next day we flew home and after bragging to the parents about their wonderful teens I went back through security to catch another plane to Vancouver Island where I am now vacationing in Crofton, an ocean town of 2000. I've swam in the Ocean, played with dead sealife, climbed mountains and just yesterday lept off one, paragliding for miles. As huge of a rush as that was, my realtor called me this morning to inform me he had finally sold our house. Because of the crap market we were forced to sell it for tens of thousands less than we originally wanted but in the end we still walk away with tens of thousands more so I choose thankfulness instead of the other kind.

Its been an incredible ride, these past few weeks. I think about all the things I've experienced in that time and I realize some people will live a lifetime and never experience any of those things. Like Ricardo. He may never see LA. I'm guessing he'll never go to Disneyland, or wait in line for 2 hours to see the hit movie of the summer. He'll never fly across the world, paraglide off a mountain or sweat for 2 months for fear of only making 5 figures on his house instead of the expected 6. Neither will 110 of his 120 amigos. What do I do with that? Should I feel guilty? Do I purge myself of all that is The Western World and live like Ricardo? Should I spit on my own countrymen judging them for living a life opposite to our Mexican friends? It's tempting, believe me. But, in the end it wouldn't be beneficial. Certainly not for Ricardo. And probably not for me. So I do better.

I will learn from Ricardo. I will love much and lust for little. And I'll reserve my smiles and tears for the things that really matter. You.

John

Bacheing

2008-07-11T11:43:00.008-06:00

I debated the spelling. Should I leave off the e? Add a T? In the end I stand by Bacheing. It's what I've been doing. I said to Angie yesterday "you realize its been 2 weeks since I've seen you and the kids." She couldn't believe it. Apparently time's just flying by for her. How nice. Well dearie, it will continue to fly by another 9 days. I'm heading to Meh hee hoe. Tijuana.

Gotta be honest, I was actually looking forward to my bacheing time. Eat whatever I want, watch whatever I want, wear whatever I want, fart on anything I want. . .truth be hold I've done all these things. And its been fine. But here's the rub: I've discovered I'm the kind of guy that needs his wife. Needs his kids. I thought I didn't but I do. I thought I could go without but I can't. Angie's my best friend, the kids add energy and joy to everything I do. Without them I've felt lost, almost floating.

The good news is me and the cat have kinda bonded. Turns out Rusty's not that bad. Every night when I get home there he is meowing at me to open the door and start the party. And its not just some normal meow, its a low moaning meow almost like he's saying "I need you master. I need you to feed me then stroke me." * haha, I could insert an Angie joke here but nah. I was gonna take old Rust to the SPCA because I'll be gone for 3 weeks and then we're traveling for the year. I was gonna, but I couldn't. Which is a real surprise. The other 4 who live with me wouldn't be lying if they told you they 'd seen Rusty airborne, tumbing out the door many a time. Its true. Sometimes he annoys me. But lately he's made me soft. er. So I didn't take him. And I haven't thrown him. Instead, I'm leaving him at home while I'm gone and asking the trusty neighbors to keep watch and insure his dish is always full. See, people can change.

As I said, I'm headed to Meh hee ho. It's Mexico actually but I've pronounced it like that as long as I can remember. It makes me feel kinda neat. I'm taking 17 people with me, so it should be intense. We'll be teaching the ins and outs of God's love to 120 kids each morning while engaging in light construction in the afternoons. The evenings will be spent enjoying Tijuana's culture. Unfortunately not THAT culture. Can't expense THOSE things to the church. Can't stroll into THAT red light distri. . .I've taken 2 other groups before and its always been amazing. Arturo and Lupe are amazing hosts. In fact, they're the hostess with the mostess. Such great people. We're ending off the trip at Disneyland July 19. It'll be great. All of it. This is the kind of stuff I live for as a youth minister. We leave in 20 hours.

Before I yo quero Taco Bell myself away I should probably update you on our house and travel plans. Our house continues to be visited by many people (12 this week) but no buyers as of yet. In spite of that, we are confident it will sell eventually. It has to. Our travel plans have stalled as of late, we were hot and heavy at them for months and have kinda taken a break. We are still excited we're just more cautious I guess since our house is still for sale. That being said, we have nearly finalized our Europe plans (Sept 19 - Dec 30) and I just paid the balance on our tickets. So we're going. . .no matter what. The only thing that may change is how long we go. Should be 10 months, could be 4. It all depends on how loving God is. haha. just kidding God. I know, I know you ARE love.

And there you have it. My life for the past 3 weeks. Oh yeah, I also went to a family reunion where I saw Mark and Blair and Pete and Chels and all my other cousins/friends. The sucky thing was nobody won the Close award this year. It's wierd because we invented the award - which begs the question -why can't we win our own award? I thought I should have won. For obvious reasons. Or even Chelsey. She's nice. Granted, she's not really a Close and she charges a lot for her pictures but she was there, at the reunion, and was pretty nice to everyone. Anyways, they could have given it to me. Or Chelsey. Me or Chelsey. Or just me. . .

John

More Disturbing then Global Warming

2008-07-04T13:40:00.003-06:00

Not gonna happen Angie. No way.

More Painful then Global Warming

2008-07-04T13:37:00.002-06:00

In other news. . .

Theological Implications of Global Warming

2008-07-04T10:18:00.011-06:00

Let me start by admitting I AM NOT A SCIENTIST. I'll leave all things sciency to my father. That being said, I do wish to comment on a sciency thing today, even though I'll almost assuredly embarass myself. If you are sciency, feel free to correct my ramblings. Dad? You out there? Tim Bolton?

Global Warming.

It was revealed this morning that of all the G8 countries, Canada is second to dead last on efforts to chill out Global Warming (this last phrase further proves my lack of sciencyness) Canada, often thought of as more liberal and socialist then our southern neighbours, is now more like them then ever before. Depending on your worldview, this may be a good thing. For me, not so much. (I love Americans I just hate their sin) Because what it means is the 2 richest countries in the world are now united in doing next to nothing to care for their planet while at the same time raping it of its natural resources faster then you can say Al Gore got robbed in 04.

Global Warming

From what I understand, Global Warming is what occurs as our Globe gets warmer. I could be wrong but I'm really relying on the name here so hopefully I'll be ok. All jokes aside, many reputable scientists and one past presidential candidate strongly believe that due to our reckless use of the planet's resources, namely fossil fuels, things are literally heating up causing rapid weather changes, melting ice caps, damaged coral among other things. The negative effects can be seen most notably on the plants and animals living in these areas. Weather, Coral, Icecaps, what's the big deal? Well, for starters, the latter has as many grams of fat as a Big Mac. True Story. But secondly, entire ecosystems are said to be in danger. If you've seen An Inconvenient Truth, you'll know what I'm talking about. When the temperature of the earth changes even a degree, numerous things are effected. In the last few decades, the rate at which this temperature has increased is greater then any time in recorded history - which is why scientists and Mr. Gore are pointing the fingers at us, and our misuse of fossil fuels.

My point in this post is not to deal so much with the science of Global Warming, way beyond my expertise, but rather its theology. Yes, theology. You may not think global warming could have theological implications but apparently it does because millions of North American Christians believe Global Warming is a myth. Think about that for a second. Millions of North American Christians believe Global warming is a myth. Now this is just a guess but I'm thinking that the average NA Christian doesn't have advance degrees in science nor have they ever really researched this phenomenon - which means, like me, they don't know jack squat about global warming. Yet, yet, they claim its a myth CREATED BY AL GORE to make money. Meanwhile, ecosystems continue to disappear.

My question today is what on earth does Global Warming have to do with a person's spirituality that causes them to not believe in it? Why do they deny its reality? What threat is that reality to their faith? If you are one of those people, please, for the love of God's ecosystems, tell me how the belief in Global Warming could interfere with your relationship with God. I really want to know.

For me, its the opposite. Global Warming has everything to do with my relationship with God which is why I DO BELIEVE. In the book of Genesis, we see God giving his planet to man for one reason - to care for it. (Genesis 2:15) In the beginning the earth was a gift from God to us. Yet ever since then we have been taking that gift for granted to the point where we now knowingly inject millions of metric tons of posinious gases into the air each day and only give it a second thought when tree huggers attempt to hold us accountable. Btw - a tree hugger is anyone who loves the planet. Apparently.

Seriously though guys, this is one fact that can't be denied. We knowingly inject posion into the air each day. I think every single person would agree that this occurs. So why is there so much controvery when scientists tell us that this same poison is beginning to affect the earth in negative ways and so we should dramatically cut down on our poisioning? Shouldn't this be expected? Its like a doctor telling his smoking patient that his habit is literally killing him and the smoker responding "your diagnosis is a myth and your just trying to make money off of your research." If we heard any smoker use this arguement, we might question their sanity.

So, what it is then? Why do so many Christians live in denial? It would be highly judgemental to suggest that these conservative, republican, suv/hummer driving/ Iraq supporting / Oil lovers would be against Global Warming for personal reasons so I won't go there. So, my only guess is they think by admitting Global Warming is occuring they are somehow implying God is no longer in control of his planet. What they forget is God gave up that control the same day he created us with free will. And when we use that free will to poision our own planet spawning Global Warming, its our bad, not his. The earth is the Lord's and everything in it, says the psalmist, yet the Lord gave that earth to us. And so our misuse of it has become his lack of control?? Can we honestly be ok with this?

This is a loaded topic, one I've wanted to write on for some time but haven't, not feeling inclined to poke the hornets nest. But after reading about MY COUNTRY'S EMBARASSING second last place finish today, I couldn't contain my thoughts any longer. If I have offended you, please know that I think your great, I just disagree with your opinions on the weather. That being said, I'd love for this to turn into a conversation so please, comment away!

John

Around the world in 80 days

2008-07-02T14:51:00.004-06:00

It's true. We are currently scheduled to fly out September 19. Originally it was September 20 but the budget airline we used just emailed us and said "yeah, so. . . we're gonna fly out a day earlier instead. ok? Kisses." You get what you pay for.

People ask me if I'm excited. The answer is yes. How could I not be? I'm pursuing my dreams of world travel. But. . .(there's always a but, a big hairy pock marked but) we still haven't sold our house. It's true. We thought we had sold it a few weeks ago but at the last second the deal fell through. Something about the buyer's limited credit. That one hurt. I think I struck every moutain on the way down from cloud 9. Since then, we've had a number of lookers, but that's it.

My dad was telling me about a dream he had the other night. Never before has he done this. In his dream God appeared to him and said "I'm really gonna make John sweat on this one (referring to the trip)" That was it, that was his dream. I was dumbfounded. I'm really gonna make John sweat?? What? Why? And why gossip to my dad about it? This whole thing is very unlike my dad, he doesn't typically share his dreams or even subscribe to an audible God. But. .. he also never lies and I've been sweating so. . .

When Angie and I made this decision, we knew it wouldn't be easy. I remember saying to her that most people work their whole lives to realize their dream so chances are we're not just gonna abra cadabra sell our house and alacazam fly off into the sunset. It'll be a grind. Well, it has and it is. Yeah we still have a couple months to sell our house, yeah everything will most likely work out in the end, but in the meantime this Island of Uknown sucks bigger then the Wings stealing Hossa today.

The unknown is a worse hell then the tragic known. At least you can move forward when you know. I've watched good friends live on this Island for years at a time only to discover the tragic known. Currently my friend Jordan and his wife Kari live there, waiting and wondering if their 10month old son Drew will overcome whatever it is that he might have. I can't imagine the soul ache they must feel.

Everyone we talk to tells us they just can't believe we have the courage to do this. They say things like"we'll never regret it, if we don't do it now we'll never do it again, that it will change our lives forever." Many have even said they live with regret today because they didn't do the same thing.

Those are the exact reasons we chose to do this. Hairy pock marked but. . .we still wonder.

Are we doing the right thing?
What if our house doesn't sell?
What if we don't deserve to go and that's why our house isn't selling?
What if. .. what if. . .what if. . . it's the twin Hell Island to the Unknown.

I return to my dad's dream. "I'm really gonna have to sweat." I have felt the sweat. Yet, I move forward anyways encouraged by the words of my good friend and fellow world traveler Kori Jones. "If it was easy, everyone would do it. Just keep the faith and move forward."

John

Father Stuff

2008-06-15T19:01:00.003-06:00

Oprah says that "biology is the least of what makes someone a mother. " I would guess the same is true for fathers. Unless he's shooting blanks, any dude can impregnate. But it takes a special kind of man to be a father. Fortunately, I grew up with that kind of man and for the past 10 years I have tried to be that same man. Trouble is, trying to be a good father is like trying to be in good shape. You know its crucial but all you feel like doing is sitting on your butt and pounding back the Old Dutch .

I have a ton of respect for dudes who can Father. I've already mentioned my own but I also think of people like Wayne McKeage. Wayne's barely 60 but you'd think the guy was my contemporary. He lives his life like he enjoys it and helps everyone to do the same. I think that's why his kids enjoy him so much. They see who he IS.

I also think of Colin Hattrick. Colin is my contemporary but he fathers with the same dedication and love of a 60 yr old. I often joke that Natalia is a magician because at 2, she's managed to wrap her grown daddy around her pinky. Its true, but every time I see the way he looks at her I'm reminded to get up and father for real this time. Angie says I'm a good father blah blah blah, I just rarely agree. Too often I'm too distracted, busy or gone to be at the level of a Wayne, Colin or a John S Close. I realize this. I recognize this. Which is why I resigned.

Yeah yeah, God called me to ministry - but the reality is there are 38 others who could replace me tomorrow and the teens would be just fine. And they will be. But no man could EVER replace me as Maddison, Ethan and Alexa's father. I'm all they got. They're all I got. Which is elementary and profound at the same time. So easy a concept, so difficult a follow through.

Beginning this September, I am taking 10 months off to travel with my family through England, France, Spain, Mallorca, Italy, Switzerland, Austria, Egypt, India, Laos, Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, China and beyond. The plan is to work together, learn together, be stretched and challenged and formed together. Most of all, the plan is TO BE TOGETHER. It's always been the plan.

Only now, I'm following through.

John

With or Without God

2008-06-06T11:16:00.003-06:00

I just started reading this important book. This quote about Christianity's core message and the church's funtion - will challenge you I think. Read it slowly, drinking it in. For me, it really resonated.

"Out of the multitude of understandings of religion, spirituality and faith; out of the varying views of the origins, nature and purpose of life; out of the countless individual experiences of what might be called divine; out of it all may be distilled a core that, very simply put, is love.

This core message carries its own authority. It needs no doctrine to validate it, no external expert or supernatural authority to tell us it is right. Love is quite demanding enough as a foundation, sufficiently complex and challenging without the requirement of additional beliefs, unbelievable to many. The church the future needs is one of people gathering to share and recommit themselves to loving relationships with themselves, their families the wider community and the planet.

Such a church need not fear the discoveries of science, history, archaeology, psychology or literature; it will only be enhanced by such discoveries. Such a church need not avoid the implications of critical thinking for its message; it will only become more effective. Such a church need not cling to and justify a particular source for its authority; it will draw on the wisdom of the ages and challenge divisive and destructive barriers. Such a church, grown out of values that transcend personal security, self-interest, and well-being, could play a role in the future that is not only viable but radically transformative and desperately needed."

- Gretta Vosper

John

Yes, those are people in the air.

2008-06-05T14:22:00.002-06:00

This was taken on Sunday in Mexico. The driver of the car fell asleep. Sorry about that biker dudes.

The Lall Family

2008-06-02T19:31:00.003-06:00

Sometime last Wednesday, between 8:30-10:00pm, Joshua Lall walked down to his basement and surprised his friend and tenant Amber Bowerman with a knife. Shortly after, Joshua walked back upstairs and entered his bedroom where he cornered his wife Alison and two little girls Kristen and Rochelle before doing the unthinkable once again. Having killed 4 people in less than an hour, Joshua walked down the hall to his one year old Anna lying in her crib. A few minutes later Joshua lay dead. Anna, meanwhile, remained in her crib. Screaming, presumably.

If this sounds like a scene from a horror movie, let me assure you its much worse. For the past 5 days Calgarians have woken up to the Lall family. The first few nights I slept ok, but as the story continued to unfold I slept less and less. It's one thing if you're dealing with a psychopath, a maniac, a sick bastard. But Joshua wasn't any of these. He was a loyal husband, loving father, involved community member, and dedicated employee.

This case has messed with my mind, my sense of what's black white. The grey is slowly making me crazy. How could a loyal, loving, involved and dedicated human being do something so inhumane? Sources say in the weeks leading up, Joshua had been hearing voices . These same sources point to a phone call he had made to his parents only 2 days before, expressing his distress. His parents were concerned enough to board a plane and fly to Calgary, arriving only hours too late. Others say he was overwhelmed by work feeling incredible pressure to maintain his perfectionistic lifestyle. Still others are saying "psychotic episodes of this kind rarely materialize this quickly and so warning signs had to have been missed."

Every day a new theory, email, source seems to emerge as people, press and parents try desperately to find the rational in the irrational, the sense in the nonsense. God knows I have.
In the end though, no matter what is uncovered, discovered, recovered or just covered, nobody will ever know what possessed 34 yr old Joshua Lall to do what he did. His crime will forever lie shrouded in mystery known only to the killer and his maker.

Does this make me feel better? Hell no. What could?

John

Love that Jack Handey

2008-05-27T11:18:00.003-06:00

“Instead of burning a guy at the stake, what about burning him at the STILTS? It probably lasts longer, plus it moves around.”

In other news, John and Ang put their house on the market 5 days ago. They have a showing tonight which makes 2 in 5 days. Not bad, for a cooling Calgary market. Now we just need an offer!!!

John

Now that's a prayer!

2008-05-22T11:21:00.005-06:00

This 500 year old prayer is one of my all time fave's. May it inspire you to greater things.

Disturb us, Lord, when we are too well pleased with ourselves, when our dreams have come true because we have dreamed too little, when we arrived safely because we sailed too close to the shore.

Disturb us, Lord, when with the abundance of things we possess we have lost our thirst for the waters of life; Having fallen in love with life, we have ceased to dream of eternity and in our efforts to build a new earth,we have allowed our vision of the new Heaven to dim.

Disturb us, Lord, to dare more boldly, to venture on wider seas where storms will show your mastery; where losing sight of land, we shall find the stars.

We ask You to push back the horizons of our hopes; And to push us into the future in strength, courage, hope, and love.

- Sir Francis Drake

Prayer as superstition

2008-05-18T19:59:00.009-06:00

Beyond lucky underwear and ladders, most Christians wouldn't admit to being overly supersticious. It's in the realm of witches and goblins and Harry Potter. That being said, I think we're a more supersticious lot then we don't give ourselves credit for. Especially with prayer.

Ask most to define prayer and they'll say something to the effect of "talking to God." The liberal may say "talking WITH God." Either way, conversation is implied. The problem is, most of our conversation to/with God is done via 911. For example:

"Help me God *puke puke* Oh God please *puke* I promise *puke* I won't ever *puke* do *puke* that *puke* again. Thank you Jesus. *wipe face* Thank you God"

"Please God, help me pass that test tomorrow."

"Dear God, I know I haven't talked to you in awhile but I really need you now. Everything's falling apart. Please God, please Jesus, help me now."

"God, please help my house to sell. My family and I are planning to travel the world and have already booked tickets and accomadations."

Sound familiar?

The problem with these prayers is they're it. Our entire conversation to/with God. Instead of communing with the divine we ingest a lucky charm (they're magically delicious). Weeks, even months go by, meanwhile, we live our lives not giving God a second thought until. . .TRAGEDY STRIKES. Stress becomes too much. Or most often, our moral failings catch up with us and we're forced to deal.

Here's the harsh reality. If we only pray when we're in trouble, we don't want God, we want magic which is why we resort to superstition; closing of eyes, bowing of head, bowing of knee (optional) and mumbling of words to an unknown being. How must this seem to God?

Here's a challenge for us all. Go one week without calling 911. Only talk to God to become more like him or to thank him for allowing you to live in a country free of cyclones and earthquakes. If you're feeling especially eager, pray on behalf of the hundreds of thousands who've lost their lives and the millions who feel like they have. Try it and see what happens. You'll either realize how superstious you really are or you'll be relieved to know you actually care.

John

Junta

2008-05-09T09:35:00.007-06:00

I awoke this morning to 6 inches of snow. It's May 9 so that's cool. I thought about complaining but then I remembered my "smack with a newspaper" comment from the previous post so I said nothing. I also awoke to discover the Junta Military in Myanmar has seized the latest food shipment, confiscating it from the UN. That's right, seized. This is the worst example of "biting the hand that feeds you" I have heard of. In the UN's words, "the food is now sitting on the tarmac doing no good." The food was destined to feed 95,000 people.

I barely even know what to say. What military regime is so twisted that it would deny life saving food and medical supplies to thier own countrymen all because "they're wary of outsiders"? The Junta have behaved appalingly and should be ashamed. Part of me wonders when it becomes time for outside interferance, although in saying this, I realize the implications and the thousand cans of worms it would open. For instance, many would argue the U.S. "interfered" in Iraq and look where that's gotten us. At the same time, the Allies "interfered" in Nazi Germany and virtually all would feel good about that.

Bottom Line: Injustice sucks huge.

John

Myanmar. "A la la la"

2008-05-08T08:55:00.012-06:00

The first estimate was in the thousands. And then the tens of thousands. Now. . .100,000. Some experts believe the losses could rival The Tsunami from 4 years ago. I can scarce believe it. The storm, the loss of life, the pride of the Junta. Dozens die every hour yet only now are relief planes "allowed" to bring hope. I can't imagine being a Burma resident and knowing the only reason my ailing infant will never get better is because my government is "skeptical and wary of outsiders." The frustration, anger, grief and despair has got to be choking the hope right out these people. Many are probably wondering where God is. He's stuck at the border, that's where.

It's difficult for North Americans to know what to do in these situations so usually we avoid these kind of things. I can't tell you how many people I know who actually refuse to read the paper or watch the news because they don't want to be constantly reminded of "depressing things like this." Amazingly, when these same people experience tragedies of their own no amount of Emails, Facebooks, Blogs or Bulletins could cover their hardships enough. I don't mean to be harsh here, I just don't think closing our eyes, plugging our ears and repeating "a la la la" is what God's Kingdom Bearers are called to do. I think we're called to more.

Here's some of the more:

Prayer is usally option #2 after "a la la la" and it's a good option. We can ask God to soften the hearts of the Junta. We can ask God to blow open the Burma borders so salvation can roll on in. We can ask God to stop the disease from spreading. We can ask God to comfort the heartbroken and bring hope to those in despair. We can even ask God to soften our own hearts so we're available to be his hands and feet.

We can send money. Many organizations, including World Vision, are right now accepting donations. Millions of pounds of food, water, medical supplies and clothing will need to be purchased. You can get involved by helping with that purchase.

Perhaps most importantly, we can live grateful lives. Next time you or anyone you know complains about the "stupid weather" you have my permission to smack them with a newspaper and then tell them to read the front page. Oh the things we complain about in Eden.
Most of you who read this thing live in Calgary or Regina, which means you are living in two of the richest cities in North America. Live grateful lives!. And for God sake, don't plug your ears. Educate yourselves, stay in the know. How can you care if you don't?

John

P.S. You may remember Kori and Lisa went to Myanmar just a few months back. Go here to relive their favorite place. And actually, Kori just penned his own reflections on this tragedy so make sure you check them out. As usual they are thought provoking.

Living our lives

2008-05-06T15:15:00.003-06:00

In the excellent movie Stranger than Fiction, the main character, one Harold Crick, lives his life on a watch. At no point in the movie does Harold attempt to live outside his watch or buck societal norms by refusing to board it's conveyer belt. Harold is content to ride the belt, doing the same thing every day, and never pauses to ask "is this really the life I want to live? "

The first time I watched this movie, my heart pounded. While I share very little in common with Harold, as I watched, I realized that I too boarded the same conveyer belt. . .and it scared the hell out of me. I have watched the movie 3-4 times since and each time the pounding returned, as if my heart was trying to tell me something.

It's funny how easy it is to ignore one's heart. For years mine pounded but I listened to conventional wisdom instead. In many ways, coventional wisdom is little more then "security salesmen hocking fear at the cost of our lives." I have written about this before so I will swiftly move on but it's worth noting again as it explains this.

2 months ago we got off. No more belt riding for the Closes. In an act of pure insanity we decided that we would puruse our dreams instead. As long as we can remember we've wanted to travel the world, experiencing other culture's worldviews and beauty. Like most people, our dream was constructed in a pipe, and like most, we never inhaled. Let me tell you, that first drag was amazing. We were dizzy for days. "We're gonna travel the world?!??!?!?!?" I remember wondering "are we even allowed?" Indeed. Conventional wisdom had done its work.

Since then, we've had our heads buried in travel books, maps and monitors. Apparently the world's a big place. A full year's devotion to its exploration only allows the speediest of travelers a brief peek. It's been a mixture of pain and exhilaration saying yes to some destinations and no to others. Just recently we decided the $1500 wasn't worth it to see Paris for 3 days, especially when, for the same money, we could live in Laos for a month. Pain and exhilaration. We've also ruled out South America, Eastern Europe, Africa minus Egypt, Australia, Japan, and New Zealand to name a few.

That being said, we have said yes to some including England, France, Spain, Italy and Austria this Fall and Egypt, China, Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, Borneo and Myanmar in 2009. Yes, the same Myanmar in the news right now.

We will spend about 40% of our time volunteering, helping people on their organic farms in Europe and teaching English in Asia. We will school our kids on the road giving them an education that will hopefully change them, and us, for life.

We have 4 months so a lot more planning is still to come but that's the big picture anyways.
We fly out September 20. At this point, we don't have a targeted date for return. One of the things we wish to do is open ourselves up to God and see what he shows us. Perhaps we'll come across a need and wish to stay longer or more permanent. Perhaps not. Either way, we expect this year to change our lives, at the very least forever eliminate life on a conveyer belt.

We'd LOVE for you to join us along our journey, even for a week. Truly, we already have people who are planning on doing just that and we'd love to add your names to the list. Let's experience Planet Earth together!

John and Ang

Get Bent

2008-04-28T00:08:00.003-06:00

It's 12:08am and I've just arrived home after sharing lagers and chicken wings with 4 remarkable 20 somethings. Tyler Butel, Nick Olson, Bonnie Casella, Eric Goud. Take a bow. This time tomorrow these 4 fearless folk will be 30000 feet up on their way to Calcutta. From there Nick is really hoping his buddy comes through because "he might have to work the night shift and he really needs to give us a ride."

For those of you who don't know, for the next 6 weeks, these Fab 4 are heading to a remote part of India to help Ray McMillan and his mission. To me, these guys are living examples of the kind of thing I wrote about in my previous post. Instead of doing the SECURE thing (working) they are using $4000+ of their own money to invest in something much bigger then conventional wisdom. In short, they are living their lives. And I have nothing but respect for each one of them. Nice job guys. I pray dozens follow in your footsteps.

John

P.S. Speaking of security, this morning I announced my resignation to the church. We've decided to follow our dreams and travel the world for a year. We leave September 20! I'll write about it soon.

Fear sucks. So does security.

2008-04-25T10:58:00.006-06:00

15 days. This thing's not the easiest thing to keep current. Sorry to my 4 readers.

Anyways, I've had some thoughts running suicides in my head as of late so I figure its time I got them out. They'll be disjointed. But so is your mom.

Fear

Growing up I feared my own shadow. Sure it was my size but it was dark and juxtaposed, plus it followed me everywhere. It wasn't just that though. One time some friends of mine convinced me there was a midget living 1000 yards from my house in some old pipes. The midget was small but mean as the dread pirate robert. Even worse, he was always listening, which meant if I told my parents he'd slit my throat while I slept. I wasted two weeks living in mortal fear until one night I couldn't take it anymore and I burst. When I awoke the next morning I realized the midget couldn't read thoughts or. . . my friends were lying bastards. The midget was never found, so I'm pretty sure it was the latter. Paul Quilliams was a mean little man. But I love him now, especially his drawings.

As I grew up and became a man I disobeyed the bible and didn't leave childish things behind me. I still lived in fear, although, now I feared injury, illness, needles and heights. As a result, I was ineffective at hockey, a wimp with the flu, I couldn't donate the blood that was apparently "in me to give" but even worse, I never experienced the pleasures of balcony life. If you think those are silly, I also feared other people's opinions of me, never finding a girlfriend, and my walk. It was a silly walk. Still is for the most part. "For the last time, no, there is not a broom up there."

Time passed, as time does, and I finally met a girl who fancied my nose. I felt like the luckiest man alive, still do actually. I was in my 2o's now so you'd think fear would have been a forgotten part of my youth. But it managed to keep following me. Manifesting itself in other more "adult" ways. Rides at the midway for instance (ok, so not so adult), walking home in the dark, getting in a fight, dying of a heart attack. The list goes on. At least I was funny. Yeah, that's about all I had going for me. Because the truth is: I was a timid, yellow bellied coward. Courage was NOT my middle name. It was George. Like the monkey.

I turned 28. As the year began, something was different. Like my brain had suddenly realized 30 was no longer a lifetime away. The next few months were dominated by conflicted thoughts. The thoughts grew in intensity until finally they burst. One night, I had a full blown panic attack and the attacks continued on and off for 2 months. At the time, I thought I was dying, that my heart really was being attacked - just as I had feared for so long. I couldn't sleep, I couldn't eat, I couldn't think. I even checked my blood pressure on the machines at Safeway every day fearing the end was near. I was trapped. Caught up in a fear box. And it was quickly being nailed shut. As scared as I was I finally realized my life literally depended on my getting it together. So I did the unthinkable.

I looked fear in the eye and didn't avert. In that moment, I think for the first time, I saw fear for what it was. A scarecrow. Mean veneer, nothing inside. I realized I had lived my entire life fearing straw.

Since that realization I've made a life, literally, by confronting my fears. Embarassingly so, sometimes. To cure my fear of needles and nausea, I actually went to the hospital ER and just. . .walked around. I booked a doctors appointment and requested that they take blood. I went to the carnival and went on all the rides. I went to highrises, road up to the highest floor and for the first time enjoyed the pleasures of balcony life. Last month I went SKYDIVING in South Carolina which for someone with my FEAR history, was a miracle.

The point is, I no longer live in fear. In fact, most of the time I live fearless. I'm convinced half of the 4 people who read this thing, live in fear of something. Don't do that! You have 1 life to live and have never been assured it'll last 90 years.

I am convinced the god of this age is not money, but SECURITY. Financial, physical, emotional, spiritual. We work and live to be secure and why do we do that? No where in scripture will you ever find Jesus living to be secure. If anything, his lack of security is what got him killed. Jesus was fearless KNOWING he did not have 90 years. So he lived his life for today.

Besides, what would you gain if you secured the world but in the end lost your soul?

John

Sam Harris

2008-04-10T15:24:00.003-06:00

This is what sets Sam Harris apart from other Athiests. He doesn't allow his hate for religion, and he has a lot, to deny the possibility of the sacred. In fact, in this speech he encourages his fellow athiests not to make the same mistake. He recieved a great deal of flack for saying what he did - from athiests.

While I don't agree with many things Harris says, I do find his quest for reason admirable and I believe Christians, if they can grow thicker skin, stand to learn a lot from the things he says.

John

More Smatterings

2008-04-10T08:54:00.018-06:00

* The Calgary Herald weather dude called for Sunny and 18 today. Right now it's a whiteout and Angie actually had to turn back from driving the kids to school because as she described it "I was driving through 2 feet of snow, sliding in and out of lanes, and I can't see a thing." Now I understand that weather is subject to the elements, hell, weather is the elements, but how can a guy whose life calling is to report the weather - be that far off. I'm thinking he phoned today's forecast in.

* Water treatment plants are crucial to insuring that the water of every village, town and city is safe and most importantly, drinkable. Calgary's is consistently the best in the biz but nothing prepared it or anyone else for what they found 2 days ago. Go here to find out.

* If you saw two guys named Hambone and Flippy, which one would you think liked dolphins the most? I’d say Flippy, wouldn’t you? You’d be wrong, though. It’s Hambone.”

* The Calgary Flames won last night, beating the Sharks 3-2. For the third year in a row I've picked the Sharks to win it all and I've even gone so far as to bet money on it by choosing half Sharks in my hockey pool. They lost though. To the Flames. *$%$*.

* New Kids on the block are making a comeback. They want their posters back hanging tough.

* For the fifth year in a row, the teens and I are participating in World Vision's 30 hr Famine. Every year we've increased our funds topping out last year at $5000. Our goal this year is to beat that, and we're off to a good start. One of the participants has already raised $1000 himself.

* Sara and Josiah, funniest friends ever, are coming over tomorrow night to watch There Will be Blood. Every time they come over they get lost somewhere in Martindale Gate. Seriously, it'll be like 27 minutes past they time they were supposed to arrive and the phone will ring, "hey John, this is Josiah, we're soooo lost, I think we're in Martindale Gate or something." The funny thing is they say that every time, as if it's the first time. Well, forget this getting lost business. Here's the directions:

1. Leave the down town core.

2. Take Memorial to Deerfoot North.

3. Take Deerfoot North to McKnight Blvd East.

4. Take McKnight Blvd East to Falconridge Blvd.

5. Take Falconridge Blvd past Pizza Hut. Go through the Lights (assuming they're green)

6. Turn left at the next Lights.

7. Continue till you pass a school on your right. O.S. Geiger.

8. Take your next left after the school. Castlebrook Way.

9. You are now on the street where your friends John and Angie live.

10. We're at the end, on the corner. #87.

11. If you happen to get lost, please feel free to call us at 207-1966.

12. See you soon.

John

Playoff talk and a smattering of other things

2008-04-08T16:39:00.004-06:00

I just got off the phone with Kirk Roberts. Kirk was "hoping to talk to Kelly but since he's not here, ok, I guess I'll talk to you John." Kirk is as passionate about his Canucks as I am about my Oilers. We consoled each other for awhile and then that was that. Kirk is my cousin and apparently reads my blog so I figured if people like Kirk take the time to read my blog, perhaps I should update it.

Although I'm pained about my Oilers I have moved on enough to enter into some hockey pools. Today at lunch I picked my 10 and 1 goalie. We alternate picks based on the number we drew so each person picks every 10 players or so. Yep, the good players get scooped up real quick. That being said, I'm the man and was able to still snipe some good ones. Here they are:

San Jose (my pick to win it all)

- Thornton (my first pick)
- Cheechoo
- Michalek
- Roenick

Anaheim

- Selanne
- Pronger
- Niedermeyer

Washington (my dark horse)

- Backstrom
- Semin

Rangers

- Jagr
- Lundqvist (my goalie pick. anyone with 4 consonants in a row deserves a shot)

Sorry Habs fans but they all got scooped up before I even had a chance. Oh, and sorry Flames fans, the day I pick you for anything will be the same day I start lactating.

Speaking of lactating, anyone see the NCAA final last night? Memphis shot like 2% on free throws and in the end it cost them the game. They were leading by 9 with 2 minutes left but Chalmers hit a CLUTCH 3 at the buzzer tying it up and sending it to overtime. The rest is history. 2% is an exaggertation but it went well with my lactating joke.

Besides sports, we finally finished our kitchen cupboards. We ordered them last year, painted them 6 months ago, then took a break before finally putting them up Saturday. I love home renovations, which is why I took so long to put them up. Some things are meant to be savored.

A couple weeks ago we took the family to "the big giant mall" in Edmonton. As I arrived I was greeted by the classic "City of Champions sign." Sometimes irony hurts.
What didn't hurt was seeing my 7 yr old son slide down the 100 ft screamer. Braver boy then I was at that age. When I was 7, I was screaming and banging "help, help, oh daddy please help." I had locked myself in the Grandma Lee's Restaurant bathroom and couldn't turn the door because my hands were too slippery from the soap. (Note: I couldn't rinse my hands off either because I couldn't turn the taps because of the said soap. Later it occured to me that I could have rinsed them off in the toilet.) We stayed in the Igloo room complete with our own jacuzzi and adult movie options, a must for every Family room. I remember the Mall feeling magical when I was younger, now the magic is seeing it in my kids.

As far as what I'm reading, watching and listening to. . . I'm no J bandura but here it goes:

Reading: The End of Faith; Guns, Germs and Steel, Pillars of the Earth,

Watching: The Gilmore Girls Season 6 (I really want to be embarassed here but I can't, that snappy dialogue had me at hello); There Will be Blood, Sam Harris on Youtube

Listening to: Juno Soundtrack, My wife, The Fan 960am

Speaking of my wife, she's pretty much my best friend. Greatest girl ever. To show my love, I tried to Michael Cera serenade her Juno style but apparently it was awkward, which is sooooo un Michael Cera.

I preach April 20 on a topic I have a lot to say about but am hamstrung by the 20 minute rule. I'm speaking on the role the church must have in the Kingdom of God. And no, they're not the same thing.

I have an Elders meeting in about 23 minutes. Apparently they discovered the true identity of the plants growing in my office.

John

My Oiler Playoff Beard

2008-04-02T13:54:00.002-06:00

Sigh.

My Oilers

2008-04-02T09:25:00.003-06:00

Man what a difference 3 minutes makes. The Euphoria I felt when Glencross scored was nothing compared to the heartbreak I felt when the buzzer sounded and it was still 3-2. Even after Nolan scored I totally believed we were going to tie it up, we sure had our chances.

The hardest part for me was knowing we were the better team last night and because of that, I felt we deserved the win. Tanguay said in today's paper "the Oilers dominated us." I agree.

Hemsky's injury was unfortunate but after a year of 350 man games lost to injury including our Captain, Goalie, Top Defensemen and Scorer, not all that surprising.

In the end, life goes on. Sigh. 2 years, no playoffs. Sigh. And so, I look to the brightside "all the players get to go home to their families." That was Angie's way of trying to brighten my mood this morning. Thanks dear. I feel loads better.

So. . .as promised - Go HABS!

John

Easter Meaning

2008-03-25T15:04:00.008-06:00

Once again Easter has come and gone. Last year I wrote a treatise on its meaning so I guess I'm off the hook for this year. "Good" Friday "celebrates" one of the more depressing events in our planets history - the good guy dies in the end. Because of this, I've always felt the need to watch ridiculously depressing movies to remind myself just how depressing Good Friday really is. Not much logic to it I know, its just something I do. In the past I've watched The Passion of the Christ or Jesus Chainsaw Massacre (as Brian McLaren calls it) as well as a movie called Nine Lives.

This year I changed it up a bit and watched Magnolia. I had seen it 3 times before which is why I chose it. Magnolia is an emotional Everest complete with the difficult breathing. It's directed by the brilliant Paul Thomas Anderson who was like 28 when he made it. It stars Tom Cruise who plays a crazed lunatic intent on controlling people - a role that narrowly won him an Oscar. Based on his latest Scientology videos and unauthorized autobiography, I now know why he lost. All craziness aside, Mr. Cruise was very effective in this role as well was his supporting cast. For 2 and a half hours, the movie follows the lives of broken people, chronicling their dysfuntion and despair in heart breaking fashion. Many times I found myself begging for a life preserver but P.T. shook his head and kept filming. This is where his brilliance lies. Most directors would have thrown the life preserver long before and then entertained you until you reached shore. Not this director. He never throws it. He forces you to feel their pain. In the end he allowed a whisper of redemption but the damage had already been done.

As the words came on Angie said something to the effect of "thanks for a great Easter." I felt pretty bad so all I could think of to say was "we'll watch something super happy on Sunday." And we did. Rory got together with Logan on Gilmore Girls Season 5.

So there you have it. Friday sucked, Sunday was Super Awesome. All in all it was a meaningful Easter.

John

My Skydive

2008-03-15T18:09:00.006-06:00

So here's how it went down. I had just finished preaching and was talking to people in the lobby. My dad came up and said - do you know who you're talking to - to which I replied, uh, I think he said his name is Kyle - to which my dad said - yes, but do you know what he does for a living - I didn't. He's a professional skydiver. Seriously? Seriously. I've always wanted to do that. How bout this afternoon. My face went white. Uh, maybe. Kyle began to laugh, that's usually what happens, people are all brave until they are actually given the choice. Damn. Let me just go talk to my nephew. Luke - wanna go skydiving? Yeh man. Sweet, we're going in 3 hours. Cool. Kyle, we're in. Seriously? Oh, I'm serious Kyle, no cowards here. Allright, let me make a few calls. 6 minutes pass. Ok, we're set for 330pm. Go have lunch and then we'll meet at the Burger King just before Chester. Allright man. Oh and John. Yeah? It's on me, my gift to you.

Fast forward 3 hours. Luke and I arrive at the site. Hey boys, are you ready, it's a beautiful day to jump out of a plane. We both nod, all cool like. Ok, well follow me, we have some forms for you to fill out and you need to watch a video. The video begins. "The activity you are about to engage in is highly dangerous. You could die." You hear that Luke, we could die. We start to laugh. Better then soiling ourselves. We sign the forms. No I won't sue you if I die. I figure that's a safe enough thing to promise.

Lets get you boys suited up. We get suited. The uniform fits snug, like an unwelcome hug from a creepy 46 yr old. Looking good boys, follow me. We do. Next thing we know we're in a hanger full of other crazy people just like us. We get our gear on. Literally, not in the cool sense of the meaning. A guy films me, peppering me with questions. I try to be natural. Oxymoron. The gear fits even tighter then the uniform. I remember not minding under the circumstances. Tight usually means secure which usually means safe - which means I live. The plane pulls up. Time to load up. We walk to the plane in slow motion.

It'll be about a 20 minute flight so sit back and relax. haha. The twin otter is full, my legs have become chairs for the people on the left and right of me. We take off. I feel at peace, very excited. As we fly I try to talk to Kyle but we can't really hear each other. The camera comes out again, I act natural. Smile and what not. It's almost time now. I sit on Kyle's knee so we can hook up. Rephrase that. I sit on Kyle's knee so he can hook up to me. I don't mind since he's the one with the parachute. Plus, he's paying for it so its the least I can do. The people on my left are jumping out of the plane. It's almost time.

I walk up to the opening with a grown man strapped to my back. I squat. He squats. He says ready set, like we rehearsed. I never hear Go. I look and leap before I can freak. I expect my body to react, punish me for not consulting with it first. No punishment comes. I'm Tom Pettying at 120mph. It's the most intense, euphoric, freeing feeling I've ever felt. The camera comes out again. I try and look at it but its difficult while plummeting towards the earth at 120 mph. The wind is forcing my mouth open so I just yell and stick out my tongue. It feels like I'm flying. Truly. It's not like when you go down a mammoth roller coaster or even the free fall at Kenosee. It feels more like floating. I remember thinking, I hope this never ends. Then I feel a tug.

The parachute says hello. We float for 5 minutes until we touch down. As we float Kyle and I chat about this and that including the mountains to the west, and city to the north. We even cover the proper way to land. Whoa, the ground's getting closer I say. Kyle laughs. We're still 1000ft away. I'm dumb. We keep floating. Now we're close. I lift up my legs so I don't snap them in two as Kyle says and we touch down skidding on my heels and buttocks. I feel thankful for all the padding back there, but most of all I'm glad I'm alive. I feel 10x the man from the hour before.

6 days have passed. Not an hour goes by without thoughts skyward. As amazing as it was the best part was waiting 3 days to tell my wife what I did. I get home and say "here's some highlights from the weekend." She thinks its me speaking so she tunes out. Wait, what, what are you doing? haha. I'm the man.

John

Folgers coffee commercial

2008-03-15T17:58:00.001-06:00

Some things are best left unsaid.

I jumped out of an Airplane

2008-03-14T12:25:00.004-06:00

It's true. I did. Greatest thrill of my life (next to God, family, sliced bread etc). When I get time I'll post more pics and tell you all about it or you can go to my Facebook.

John

Tales from Sowth CarolIna

2008-03-10T08:24:00.007-06:00

Hey Loyal Readers. Sorry for the non posting, I've been in Sowth CarolIna since Friday. For years I've been telling my brother to bring me down to speak so I could hang out with my family. That sly fox finally did. It's been a great time. I spoke 4 times this weekend including the sermon yesterday. My dream came true when I read this passage of scripture at a proper Southern Church:

"How beautiful you are and how pleasing, O love, with your delights! Your stature is like that of the palm, and your breasts like clusters of fruit. I said, "I will climb the palm tree; I will take hold of its fruit." May your breasts be like the clusters of the vine, the fragrance of your breath like apples, and your mouth like the best wine."

The initial silence in the room was the greatest high of my life but finally somehow couldn't stand it and burst which caused everyone else to burst too. It was one of the rare moments where you know God is in the room. Ha Ha. One lady came up to me after and in all seriousness informed me I should perform at the local comedy club "tomorrow night." I'll think about it, I said. I decided no.

I've really enjoyed my stay. Last night I played football with my nephew Luke and all his ex college players. When I went to get out of bed this morning my right leg said to my left "so I guess we're doing this", to which my left replied "yeah dude, master needs breakfast." Such obedient legs although they're still pretty sore at me.

One of the highlights of the weekend was serving 300 hotdogs to the homeless. When we first showed up there were only 2 homeless people. I was disapointed -"what kind of city only has 2 homeless people. Pfff." Thankfully the word got out and dozens more arrived. I told the group this weekend that I feel closest to God when I'm talking to the homeless. This was no exception. One guy was a dancing machine. We had the windows open and the music going and my man was gone. I watched in awe as he moved and grooved. Later he told me he had taken 18 years of modern dance in NewYork and had even danced backup for MJ, Janet and Soul Train. I believed him, I've never seen such rhythm. After all the hotdogs were eaten and no more dancing was to had, my brother and I drove 6 of them to the shelter, filling up his little truck. When we arrived one of the girls asked me for a hug. It was cool.

I'm only here till Wednesday so I imagine the next few days will be spent smoking, drinking and hugging strange woman. My dad loves being in charge. Speaking of my immoral dad, the time we've spent together has been amazing. One of the truly special things about getting older is how your father also becomes your friend. Speaking of friend, my brother is the best and I can't think of another guy I'd rather spend all my time with then him. Very few people can go toe to toe with me and my. . .oddness like he can. We usually spend 87% of our time together laughing at things innapropriate and pulling our parents chains. Nothings better. My poor mom has had to miss out on the whole thing. While I've been here, she's been in Regina, of all places, for a board meeting. When she found out the date I was coming she experienced a pain on the level of birth. She flies in tonight at Midnight so I'll get a whole 36 hrs with her before I fly back.

We're heading out for lunch, as soon as dad gets out of bed. The last two nights he's stayed up past 3am watching movies. What a guy.

John

P.S. The Oilers just won't let me grieve in peace. They keep keeping hope alive by going 6-1 in their last 7. Part of me wishes they would just throw in the towel because for them to keep this up and then finally lose and miss the playoffs by 2 pts, I just don't think I could handle it.

Dating Dudes

2008-02-28T17:24:00.001-07:00

This is real footage from 80's dating videos. Watch and Learn boys.

God and Empire - Your Thoughts Please

2008-02-26T15:19:00.012-07:00

Amazon finally ding donged my door Saturday - bringing forth my boxful of books. I was at a Retreat with a whack of teens so I didn't get to peruse until Monday. Guns, Germs and Steel - The End of Faith - God and Empire - I am America and So Can You - The Road -plus a book about coffee - all grinned up at me as I tore open the box. I've had my face in God and Empire ever since.

The premise of the book is Jesus came to innagurate his Kingdom but civilization tends toward Empire. It always has. The book's subtitle is: Jesus Against Rome, Then and Now. Crossan has always maintained that it was the treasonous claims of Christ that lead to his crucifixion not God's divine plan of substitutionary atonement. Feel free to switch over to Dictionary.com or Wikipedia at this point. I know I had to. In other words, Jesus didn't die because it was in the cosmic cards - aka "God's plan" but because of his claims of Lord and Savior of the World. Caesar alone could make these claims and anyone who opposed him would suffer unspeakable tortures, as Jesus eventually found out. One can debate the implications of this understanding of the death of Jesus versus the traditional view that he died to save us from our sins but for the purpose of this post, I wish to go in a different direction. Perhaps I'll return to the other at a later time. FYI - Crossan would say Jesus didn't die for our sins but because of Our -humanity's - Rome's - sin of Empire and injustice. Perhaps it was some of both.

One of the things Crossan's book has made me question is the present state of God's Church. Do we funtion more like Caesar or Jesus? My guess is it probably depends on the church. That being said, perhaps the first question that needs to be asked is, what's the difference?

Crossan would argue that the difference in Jesus' day was between a dictator opearating a system of control and a leader ushering in a new way of life. Rome exercised military, political, economical and worst of all - ideological control - over most of the world. Caesar Augustus, the greatest Caesar of them all, was said to have "brought peace to the world" - which he did of course, although his chosen method was force and intimidation.
Peace as the result of control lasts only as long as the control.

Jesus' method of attaining peace was quite different. "I'm not like you" he said to Pilate a few days before his death. "My Kingdom is not of this world." Jesus didn't come to build an Empire. If I did, "my people would fight for me." He came instead to usher in a Kingdom, one where God was King. The followers of this Kingdom would not be coersed into joining then controlled once they did. They'd be invited and then allowed to choose for themselves. Either way they'd be loved, as a Father loves his own child.

With that in mind, let's return to my question. Does today's Church function more like Caesar or Jesus? Empire or Kingdom? Control or Love?

I'd love to hear your thoughts. After 7, I'll offer up my own. Not that I'm coersing you into commenting. . .

John

Statement bytes

2008-02-22T11:24:00.013-07:00

I thought it was funny last night when Hillary said that Obama's campaign isn't "change you can believe in, but change you can xerox." She said that because of the plagarism accusations. . . and her dip in the polls.

I was talking to a friend who compared homosexuality to pedophilia. We were talking about the rise in gay clergymen.

In 4 hours I'm leaving for our youth group's annual Fire and Ice Retreat. This year we're doing an Oscar theme except we're handing out Pez instead of solid gold statues. The Pez Awards. I'm in the middle of writing acceptance speeches that unsuspecting teens will have to read when they win awards like "fastest texter."

I made an Amazon order a few days ago and have been living under the delusion it might actually arrive this week. A few minutes ago my wife called to say "a postal truck was backing up and I think it might be your books John." She hung up to greet the postal guy and then called back to say "sorry, it was just a Valentine's parcel from my parents." Stupid insenstive selfish inlaws.

I'm excited for the Oscars Sunday. Go Daniel Day. I've only seen the trailer but based on that alone I say give him the Oscar. I predict he'll win, along with Javier Bardem, No Country, The Coen Brothers. Big fan of them all.

I've been trying all morning to sing a showtune from the muscial/movie Chicago but can't get the rhythm. It's frustrating as well as "embarassing and retarded." Thanks Ang.

Castro fianally retired from controlling Cuba. 49 years is impressive even if the guy did smoke. (and be a Dictator)

My Oilers are 11pts out with 21 games to play. The realist in me says Go Jays Go, the idealist is still hoping for a miraculous run.

The Marcus Borg article I posted sparked some good discussian. There's more where that came from so I suggest you check him out online along with John Dominic Crossan, NT Wright, Karen Armstrong and if you're really brave Sam Harris. In fact, Harris recently sat down with Rick Warren and chatted about God, Relgion and other things bad. There's a lot to learn from our critics. If we're serious, we'll take the time.

It's noon now and I really have to go write some Oscar speeches, a Friday tradition this time of year.

John

War Stance

2008-02-21T09:11:00.005-07:00

Here's a good news story coming out of the war in Iraq. Regardless of how you feel, this is one stance we all can share.

Nice job Al and Dad.

John

Sex Everyday

2008-02-19T10:09:00.002-07:00

Hmmm. . .

Agnostic about the After life

2008-02-15T09:31:00.002-07:00

Note: This is an article from one of my favorite Christian thinkers - Marcus Borg.

I am a committed Christian and a complete agnostic about the afterlife. I use “agnostic” in its precise sense: one who does not know. Moreover, I know that I cannot resolve “not knowing” by “believing” – whatever we believe about an afterlife has nothing to do with whether there is one or what it is like.

There is more to say. I think that conventional Christianity’s emphasis on the afterlife for many centuries is one of its negative features. I have often said that if I were to make a list of Christianity’s ten worst contributions to religion, it would be its emphasis on an afterlife, for more than one reason.

When the afterlife is emphasized, it almost inevitable that Christianity becomes a religion of requirements and rewards. If there is a blessed afterlife, it seems unfair to most people that everyone gets one, regardless of how they have lived. So there must be something that differentiates those who get to go to heaven from those who don’t – and that something must be something we do, either believing or behaving or some combination of both. And this counters the central Christian claim that salvation is by grace, not by meeting requirements.

Another problem: the division between those who “measure up” and those who don’t leads to further distinctions: between the righteous and the unrighteous, the saved and the unsaved.
Another problem: an emphasis on the afterlife focuses our attention on the next world rather than on this world. Most of the Bible, on the other hand, focuses our attention on our lives in this world and the transformation of this world. At the heart of the Lord’s Prayer is the petition for the coming of God’s kingdom on earth: your kingdom come on earth, as it already is in heaven. There is nothing in the Lord’s Prayer asking that God take us to heaven when we die.

As yet another reason for my agnosticism about an afterlife: does it involve the survival of personal identity and reunion with those we have known in this life? Are family reunions part of the afterlife? For some people, this is much to be desired, for family has been the primary source of love and joy in this life. But for perhaps an equally large number of people, family has been the primary source of pain and unhappiness. So, are we going to be with those people forever?
What I do affirm about what happens after death is very simple: when we die, we do not die into nothingness, but we die into God. In the words of the apostle Paul, we live unto the Lord and we die unto the Lord. So whether we live or die, we are the Lord’s.

For me, that is enough. My not knowing anything more does not bother me at all. And I am very wary when the Christian gospel becomes a message about the afterlife. I am convinced that it invariably leads to distortion. This is not the Christian gospel.

Don't Recycle

2008-02-08T09:42:00.000-07:00

Here's a story that'll put hair on your knuckles. The family and I were headed to small group last night and after stopping for coffees at Tim's we proceeded to the Safeway where I was hoping to engage in some much needed recycling. As we arrived, Angie said, "don't recycle, we don't have time anyways." The kids all chirped with agreeement and for whatever reason I actually listened to them and kept on driving. Seconds later 3 police cars came speeding towards us. "It's the recycling police" I said. I wish I had, but not even I'm that witty. What I did say was "whoo, maybe someone got murdered (I said murdered all scary like). The mature one in the car said the joke wasn't funny nor appropriate.

2 hours later we were driving home and as we passed the Safeway we saw that the Domo Gas Station, located right beside the recycling bins, was all taped off. We flipped on the news and discovered there had been a gang shooting at 6:30pm and 2 young men had been critically injured. 6:30pm. The exact same time I had planned to engage the family in some much needed recycling. I think about what could have been, and I'm thankful for my mature one.

John

10 things I'd hate not to tell you

2008-02-04T17:31:00.000-07:00

1. I enjoyed a bowl full of Super yesterday. As much as I wanted history to be made, Eli's scamper and Tyree's one armed clutch was one for the ages. Unbelievable.

2. I preached a sub par sermon yesterday. Perhaps it was the 11 minutes of Greek Mythology.

3. Angie and I were having a "disagreement" the other day when Alexa casually looked over and said "don't guys, you don't want to go on Dr. Phil."

4. 30 Rock. Check it out. While it's no Arrested Development, it's better than most other stuff.

5. The Oilers announced today that Horcoff will undergo season ending shoulder surgery. While I'm ever hopeful, the playoffs are now in the realm of pipe dream.

6. Breakforth was good this year. The Highlights were Chris Seay, Erwin McManus and Lee Strobel. Josh McDowell tried way to hard.

7. I'm doing a youth rally in South Carolina next month. It'll be great to see my brother and parents.

8. Maddison's gonna be on TV Friday for a project she's doing with her school and MS.

9. I hope the writer's strike ends soon.

10. I just had my first webcam conversation. Next thing you know I'll be Facebooking from my cell phone.

Battle of Alberta in 45min. My prediction: Oilers 3-1.

UPDATE: Ok, so I was wrong. It was 5-0. Worst Flames lost against Edmonton in 8 yrs.

John

Jesus Christ Action Figure

2008-01-29T12:16:00.001-07:00

Oh. My. Goodness.

Scientology Documentary

2008-01-19T12:52:00.000-07:00

You've probably heard about the secret Tom Cruise Scientology videos that have been leaked all over the internet. They've caused such an uproar that the Church of Scientology is threatening lawsuits to any person who posts the videos. Being a lowly youth minister I will not tempt fate so you'll have to google them yourself. Angie and I watched them this morning and - OH MY.

Anyways, if you're like us, you probably know very little about Scientology or its founder L Ron Hubbard. Angie and I found this documentary online and just watched it. It's disturbingly good.

John

Ovechkin goal 32

2008-01-18T09:17:00.001-07:00

Here's the first. Greatest goal ever.

Rick Nash 1/17/08 amazing goal vs. Phoenix

2008-01-18T09:15:00.001-07:00

Second greatest goal ever.

They are right

2008-01-12T18:19:00.000-07:00

I never saw the movie What's Up Chuck, but it's ok, because now I know. It's what my wife did last night, Maddie 2 nights before that and Ethan 2 before that. Only Lex and I have stayed gag free, although in saying that I may have just jinxed things. Hopefully not because tomorrow's a packed day for me and ralphing on the parishioners is not as classy as it sounds.

They say you don't know what you've got till it's gone. It's so true and if They were here I'd pat them on the kaboose and say "good call sailor, you can ride coach with me anytime."
Today, Angie's been "gone" so to speak and I really haven't known what to do. Ususally she does that and that and that.

For instance, she's Ms. Chipper - she waltzes around our house flashing her smile whilst bringing joy to the tator tots. I am not Ms. Chipper. I'm not even Mr. Chipper. I like chips. That's it. She also knows how to make hot chocolate. A dash of this and a dash of that and presto - winter becomes merry. The kids wanted some of that winter magic today and all I could do is heat up some water and offer them tea. Then there's the dishes, they pile up so quick. . .and the laundry, gees we wear lots of stuff and here's the worst part - its playoff time in the NFL and guess how much I've been able to watch - exactly. One quarter. The point is, I miss my wife (so far for all the wrong reasons but if I listed the right ones you'd all think I was corny. . .or gross, right? Right? Right?)

Time to get better babes, the family needs you.

John

P.S. Right?

Funniest site on the Web

2008-01-10T10:22:00.001-07:00

Go Here. It's a tear jerker in all the right ways.

Be sure to check out The Recent Humor Piece.

John

The Year in Web Video

2008-01-08T11:55:00.001-07:00

These are the year's best web videos. Very enterataining. . . and revealing.

Drama Prairie Dog

2008-01-08T11:54:00.001-07:00

I've probably watched this 20 times. I think it gets funnier every time.

Once

2008-01-04T22:54:00.000-07:00

Every Once in a while a movie comes along that towers above the rest. Tonight, Angie and I watched that movie . It was shot in 17 days on a shoestring budget with inexperienced actors -but we sat transfixed. It got to me, in a beautiful way and I think it will get to you too. The music is incredible, deeply personal and raw. Here's the title song along with clips from the film.

John

21

2007-12-31T11:16:00.000-07:00

Yesterday the Dallas Cowboys, my Dallas Cowboys, were soundly beaten by a Washington Redskins team playing for more than just a win against their fiercest rivals and a chance to play come January. They were playing for Sean. A fallen friend.

November 18th. Sean is not home when burglers break into his house doing damage to his desk and safe. The perps leave with nothing, unable to find what they were looking for. Sean's mother checks on his house in his absence discovering the breakin and calls the police. Meanwhile, Sean sits out his first game after sustaining a knee injury the week before. His Skins lose 28-23 to the first place Dallas Cowboys.

November 25. Sean sits out his second straight game watching his Skins fall yet again, this time to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. It's their third loss in a row.

November 26. 1:45 a.m. The perps come back to Sean's house, this time finding him at home. A melee insues and Sean is shot in the upper leg by one of the 4 armed teenage intruders. He is critically wounded in the femoral artery. His long-time girlfriend Jackie Garcia hides under the bedding throughout along with Sean's 18-month-old daughter. She calls 911. Sean is airlifted to the Ryder Trauma Center at Jackson Memorial Hospital in Miami, where he undergoes surgery. He emerges from surgery at 12:30 p.m. but remains unconscious, in a coma. Sean never wakes up, dying a few hours later as a result of the massive blood loss.
His team mates are devastated.

November 30. 4 young men are detained in connection with the murder of Sean Taylor. The youngest of the men is 17. Confessions are given.

December 1. All four men are charged with second-degree murder, armed burglary and home invasion with a firearm or another deadly weapon. The charges result in life sentences for each of the perpetrators.

December 2. Shaken by the loss of their team-mate and friend the Skins suffer their 4th loss in a row losing 17-16 to the lowly Buffalo Bills.

December 3. 4,000 people attend Sean's funeral service held at the Pharmed Arena at Florida International University. The entire Redskins organization attends the funeral taking up a section of the arena. Many of them are seen weaping throughout the emotional service. Sean's daughter sits in the front with her mother - wearing a pin with her father’s jersey number “21” on the sleeve of her dress. Sean is buried near his home. He is 24 at the time of his death.

December 7th. The Skins suit up to play last year's Super Bowl Finalists, the Chicago Bears. The Skins record sits at 5-7. A berth in the playoffs is the least of their concerns. As the Skins take the field they are greeted by 21's everwhere. It seems the 85,000+ fans aren't content to see their Skins throw in the towel. They've sown 21's everywhere, their clothes, their jerseys, their flags, everywhere. It's as if they're saying "do it for Sean." The Skins oblige defeating the Bears 24-16. They do not lose again.

The following weeks they dispose of the New York Giants and Minnesota Vikings 22-10, 32-21 respectively - spurned on by the Spirit of their fallen friend and faithful fans. By this time all the players have sown 21's into their Jersey's and afixed 21's to their helmets. The team now sits at 8-7 having won 3 games in a row. Talk of playoffs can now be heard.

December 30. Final game of the season. The Skins only hope is that Minnesota loses to the lowly Denver Bronco's. The other option is the Skins beating the Dallas Cowboys, but it's unlikely, considering the Boys tower above all in the NFC, sporting an impressive 13-2 record. The Skins take the field and are immediately overwhelmed by a record 90,000 fans all adorned with the number 21. Their coach, Joe Gibbs, having overcome tragedy himself, leads them on to the field. It isn't even close. The Cowboys are defeated soundly and are held to just 1 yard rushing. 1. yard. Even more remarkable, the Denver Broncos upset the Minnesota Vikings 22-19 securing the Skins a spot in the playoffs.

Joe Gibbs after the game. "To get to the playoffs was a dream of ours and four weeks ago everybody would have said it looked impossible. It was a great four weeks. It was guys just playing their hearts out. We couldn't have been prouder. The Lord has blessed us with a great group of guys. When you think about what they have gone through this year."

In the end, Washington showed us all the true meaning of having Skin in the game. They defeated my Cowboys 27-6 - winning for, and remarkably by, 21.

I didn't mind so much.

John

Christmas Break

2007-12-27T10:37:00.000-07:00

Sitting on my butt actually. And reading. A ton. And watching Canada win. A lot. And laughing every evening at The Best Yet Most Underated Television Show In The History Of Television. Arrested Development. Besides that. . .playing street hockey with Ethan, laughing with Lex at Elf then rewinding and laughing even harder. Completing the "Human Faces Art Book, Tips, Questions and More", written by Maddison Close. And last but not least - doing the papers for my wife which is incredibly sexy. ..apparently. All in all it's been a fantastic holiday. A real break. Just what I needed after a mammoth project.

Tonight we have great friends coming over for good food. Speaking of great friends, Jay and Shannon were here last Sunday and as always we had a delightful visit. I like the word delightful. It's pigtail cheery. Tomorrow, I'm headed across town to visit with a good buddy who's back from the South. Next week, Angie and I plan to see a couple movies, probably Atonement and Dewey Cox (guess who picked which movie, you have 3 seconds). I start back to work Jan 2 which is still far enough away that I don't have to shower or shave. Tyler Butel has promised to slot me in, once, which is good of him considering he's so important. There's also talk of some bball before the break ends. A last ditch effort to shed unwanted pounds. I remember a time when bball is all I was, now it's a 1 hr slot on a packed holiday schedule. I'd love to say I still got game but the last time I dunked was 11 years ago.

I said I've been reading a lot and I have. I'm not lying ok. Jeez. My habit has been non fiction in the day and fiction in the evening. During the day I've been absorbed in The Portable Athiest. There's just something about Christmas that brings out my heretical ness. All jokes aside, its been a very good read and I've learned a ton in areas previouly unexplored. Much of it is rants written from men fuming over the carnage religion has left in its path but every once in while someone like Mark Twain will stop me dead and I'll find myself mulling for several minutes - struck with an unplesant truth. Einstein has been provocative as has Darwin. He's not what most think he was. Darwin I mean. He's more. Anyways, my faith has felt fuller lately and I must give credit to this unlikely source. I would recommend it but I fear that may be going to far. For obvious reasons. So don't read it. . .I recommend that you don't read it.

Life is good in Close land. Thanks for stopping by. It makes us feel loved.

John

One crappy day part deux

2007-12-22T16:36:00.000-07:00

I got into an accident yesterday. Just one day after all things Crappy, a 20yr old with a 2008 Nissan thought it would be prudent to turn in front of me while I drove the preacher's kid to the mall. I barely had time to react so I stamped the brake, swerved to the right then refrained from introducing the boss's youngest to new words. I know cuz I asked her after. "So, when we were about to crash did I happen to say f. . .No? Excellent."

Nanoseconds after not swearing I plowed into Mr Altima rendering both our 2008's 911 worthy. As the cop drove away an hour later he wished me a Merry Christmas. I thought it curious.
2 cops, 2 days , 2 Merry Christmas's wished. I'm trying friends in blue.

John

P.S. Stuff like this is helping. Oh, no one was injured btw. Although my poor Matrix will be in Shop Class for a month.

One crappy day

2007-12-21T11:42:00.000-07:00

There are many ways in which I would not wish to be woken up. The blare of the smoke alarm for instance. The scream of my darling wife convinced hundreds of spiders are biting her is another. An excited son leaping onto my sensitiveness. Yesterday morning was among the worst though as it involved my youngest, Alexa, announcing, "Ooo, Hugo pooped" followed by a series of giggles. What is wrong with her I wondered, as I lay, what could possibly be funny about dog's excrement at 630am?

I got vertical and walked towards the awfulness. Hugo had exploded in 5 different spots in most rooms of the house. The option of one place just hadn't occured. In Hugo's defence, he was sick the day before as well. Angie discovered this after coming home, opening the door only to be met with Hugo's awfulness from head to paw. Angie said he seemed embarassed, which, embarassed enough to clean it up, I wondered? Angie hinted aloud on the phone if I might take some time off from work and deal with this, but I politely declined citing the work of the Lord as my defence. 4 baths later Hugo was clean. er.

Ah yes, did I mention the day before we had paid $80 to get him professionally groomed? Sadly its true, so if you've seen Murphy, let me know, I'd love to strangle him then burn his stupid laws.

As I headed to work after attending to the hilarious dog poop I decided to stop by the bank to check on the ol account. It was still there but there was some zero's missing. I drove to work distracted by the statement when I saw the red light. The problem was, I was already in the middle of the intersection and it was a big one. Lots of whizzing cars. Panicing, I continued through, holding up my hands at the other cars as if to say "please don't hit me, I just need to get through this intersection, k?" Everyone complied and I made it through but was greeted with flashing red lights. CRAP!!! I yelled, to no one in particular. (actually I wish that's what I yelled.) As I sat waiting for the inevitable tap on the window I thought about Hugo's poop and how it no longer seemed that bad. How on earth am I going to explain this?

Tap Tap Tap. I rolled down the window greeting the cop with a smile so big my dentist would have surely nodded with pride. "Do you have some sort of medical condition?" "You'd think so, I replied, but actually no, I just had a brain fart." Brain fart. That the best I could come up with. "Do you have a driver's license?" "I sure do," I said, a little too excitedly. I handed it to him and he looked it over. "You do realize this is a $250 fine?" "Yeh, I responded, looking at my crumpled up bank statement. "What do you do for a living," was his next question. I looked at him, smiled sheepishly, then said "actually, I'm a Pastor, and I'm just headed to work." His expression stayed the same as if his brain was still processing this ludicris information and hadn't yet told his face it's response. "A pastor eh." "Which church?" "Uh, actually it The Calgary Church of Christ, in Malborough, just behind the Mall." I thought about including -"you know, the church that is helping 700 homeless people get gifts this Christmas," but I didn't. The cop continued to look at me. I continued to sweat knowing there couldn't be a worse time for a $250 mistake. "Well, have a good day then, try to be more careful." "I sure will, I replied, way to cooperatively.

I still wonder why the cop didn't ticket me. I was clearly in the wrong, so much so the question of my mental health was on the table. Perhaps it was because he believed me, I was awfully honest. Maybe it was the "what kind of unfeeling Nazi gives a nice man a ticket 5 days before Christmas dynamic?" Maybe it was the whole Pastor thing. Like, God's birthday is just around the corner, better not mess with one of his employees. I'm not sure actually. But it was cool. And one of the better Christmas presents I've recieved.

John

Crosby vs Ference Dec 20, 2007

2007-12-21T10:51:00.001-07:00

Crosby's first fight. . .

Spencer, Hank, Bruce and Janet.

2007-12-17T14:18:00.000-07:00

Do not judge less you be judged. A few weeks ago I called out the blogworld judging all the non-updaters. Let's see 12 days have passed since I "sold out" as my good friend Kyle said, writing a blog wrought with tired cliches. Ha Ha, Kyle's a real treasure of a friend, the kind that will tell you the truth. He was correct of course, I didn't want to dissapoint my cousin's wife by not Grid Blogging so I turned to Picasso to bail me out. Never trust a dead guy who paints odd shaped boobs. Anyways, I have time now so lets hope I get this thing right.

For the past two weeks I've spent my evenings sitting across the table from men and women on the edge of despair. No, I'm not talking about Flames fans (that joke would have worked much better if the Flames weren't currently on a five game winning streak. Crap.) The men and women I speak of are currently living in Calgary without a home. The homeless. Many of them came here looking for work but found no rent control instead. Some of them had their lives torn apart when their wife, partner or room-mate took off leaving them broke or worse, broken. Some of them made poor choices and are now addicted to. . .pain. All of them touched me. Messed with my mind and touched my heart. Each night, as I headed home, I felt grateful to be me and depressed they are them. Not dressed up and no place to go. We conducted 700+ interviews over a 10 night span. Of the dozens I personally conducted there were four that stood out.

The first was Spencer. As he walked towards me I saw his face was contorted, and then it wasn't, and then it was again. You could tell he was aware of what was happening but was powerless to do anything about it. Like hitting a patch of black ice. As he shared his story he talked about medical school and how he had become a nurse. "It's my passion, he said, I love taking care of people." One day he woke up and everything changed. Dystonia took care of him. Dystonia is a neurological disorder that causes abnormal muscle contractions. Spencer got emotional as he talked about losing his job and no longer being allowed to take care of peole. Without a source of income or support he was now forced to survive at The Drop In Centre. Survive. "We don't live here, a man shared with me one night, we exist." When it came to his wish, Spencer asked for Victor Frankl's classic "The Search for Meaning." He once knew where to find it but now wasn't so sure.

Next was Hank Williams. He chuckled as he told me his name. "Actually, it's Henry", he said. Life emanated from his eyes. Like he had found a way to not just exist. Hank had been homeless for 10 years which meant he was now 71. I know. Oh yeah, and he's paralyzed. I can't imagine what would be worse, being homeless at 71 or being paralyzed. Perhaps they're the same thing. Hank went on to share that he had 13 children (7 step children) and 28 grandchildren. I finally blurted out at one point "what on earth are you doing here?" He replied "I prefer this environment, its much more positive then living with my family." I was dumbstruck. Most of us couldn't survive a night at The Drop In let alone live there for years. But Hank was. And had chosen it.

A few nights later I met Bruce. Bruce is a 22 yr old Maritimer who moved to Calgary for you guess it. . .work. Bruce was brutally honest as he shared how alcohol had taken over his life causing him to lose his job and place. As he shared I couldn't help but notice he was different. He stood out. He wasn't like the others I had talked to, he was sharp, sure of himself, even seemed to know what he wanted. We ended up talking for several minutes as he told me tales of growing up in Nova Scotia, playing hockey with Sidney Crosby but being forced to quit when he hurt his shoulder. BTW - he claims Crosby is the biggest A_____ H_____ he's ever met in his life. When it came to his wish he said "all I want is to go home for Christmas." He then admitted how he hadn't told his family. I imagined his parents, sitting at home in N.S. talking about how proud they were of Bruce, moving west to get a job. Little did they know, their son was living on the street. When I asked why he hadn't told his parents he shrugged his shoulders and said "why tell them, they don't need to be burdened by my mess, they have their own challenges. Besides, if they knew, they'd send me money they didn't have or come up here and get me. Why would I put that kind of stress on them" Bruce impressed me.

Janet hit me the hardest though. She came up behind me and said "hey, don't I know you." I turned around seeing a girl I recognized but wasn't sure from where until she said "you're from church, right?" Then it clicked. Janet had attended my youth group 4 years ago, very infrequently mind you, but she had come, even to BC for Got Faith. When it clicked I almost broke down right there in the middle of The Drop In Centre. I talked to her for several minutes wanting desperately to save her yet not knowing where to begin or if she even wanted to be rescued. She ended up thanking me for chatting then wandered off. She looked so lost. And she was. She still is.

We completed all the interviews on Friday. Most of them have been added to the website - http://www.homelesspartners.com/. Many of the people have had their wishes granted but hundreds more still wait. (Btw - if you are moved by their stories or wish to participate you can grant their wish by mailing their gift to the shelter. If you are interested, let me know.)

This project was both heartbreaking and inspiring, eye opening and moving. I encourage all of you to either start this project in your own city or start volunteering at your local shelter. I realize this last part is turning into a commercial but I'm not sure I care. My life was changed.

John

Belated Gridblog

2007-12-05T15:01:00.000-07:00

Chels suggested we blog on "The Art of Happiness." Immediately I had visions of sunshine and rainbows grinning down on a square house with a triangle roof and a family making merry in the curvy grass below. The artist was 5 and used a broken crayon. But that's Happiness Art.

The Art of Happiness. It's not a Science. Most of us approach happiness as if it were paint by number - convinced a completed picture is the key. I think its more Picasso then that. He seemed to just paint allowing the brush to move his arm. The key with Picasso is not in what he completed but how he completed.

Life is a canvas. How we approach it determines everything.

John

Alexa

2007-11-28T14:01:00.000-07:00

Angie thinks I spoil little Lex which. . . ok, maybe at times, but she has freckles and baby blues so what do you expect? I took the kids to school today so I could watch Lex perform her first ever tap dance. As the kids tapped the parents grinned ear to ear including this one. There's something about kids that turns adults into putty.

On the way home Alexa sat in the front seat and pushed every button ever put out by Toyota. I finally encouraged her to stop so she moved on to CD's, skipping every song, ejecting, putting a new one in etc. At one point I would have actually perferred Angie's back seat driving. Love ya dear but cmon, if said driving was a crime you'd be doing 10-20 at Levenworth.

When we got home Lex wanted to say the prayer for the lunch. She pleaded with God to stop Rusty from showing off and for Hugo to stop being so greedy. The interesting thing is Rusty's our cat and Hugo's the family dog. To her credit she also prayed for the food.

Awww little Lex.

John

Great links

2007-11-27T11:50:00.000-07:00

In case you missed it, Kori and Lisa Jones are currently living the life we all wish we were living. Read their latest blog post. It'll tickle right before stabbing you in the heart.

John

P.S. Angie and I watched Pan's Labyrinth last night. Amazing. For so many reasons.

Grey Dad Cup

2007-11-25T14:40:00.000-07:00

My dad celebrated his 71st birthday on Thursday. The exciting thing is he's still able to walk, talk, and use a toilet. Ha Ha. Angie says "I'm bad" for saying that, while laughing of course. I'm pretty sure my dad is laughing too - as long as he can still read or remember where he left his computer. Ha Ha.

My friend Bob Barnard lost his father on Friday. He was vacationing with friends when he suffered a massive heart attack. He was 67. This morning at church Bob walked up to the front unannounced and shared for 10 minutes what his father meant to him. How he was proud of him. How he was a good man. There wasn't a dry eye in the place. And I couldn't help but think of my dad.

Trey Moreau's father sustained a serious eye injury on Tuesday. He was changing a tire when the rod slipped sticking him in the eye. He suffered damage to his cornea and lens. At first the doctors wondered out loud if they could save the eye. Thankfully they were and he is currently recovering at Rockyview, here in Calgary.

Life is fragile. And can turn on a dime. We always think we have lots of time so we sit on our feelings, steer clear of the phone and plan to get together next week as this week is bad.

Today my Bombers play in the Grey Cup. I forget the other team. Growing up, most Sundays involved me scarfing down my mom's homemade Roast Beef then bounding down the stairs to catch the rest of the game. Note: My mom would always end up doing the dishes by herself. I don't think I ever thanked her for that. Thanks mom! Without your dish pan hands I wouldn't have the fond memories I do today. I actually discovered many years later that my dad wasn't the sports enthusiast he always let on. He mainly enjoyed it because it involved time with me.

The Pre-game is yapping in the background and while I'm excited to see Dimwiddie defy the odds effectively leaving Bandura out $50, without my dad - it'll feel empty. I'm not always gonna have my dad, the day will come when I will share Bob's heart ache. But not today. So I will love him today knowing he's watching online and cheering too.

Love ya pops. Go Bombers.

John

Adbuster _ Buy Nothing Day

2007-11-22T09:14:00.001-07:00

Buy nothing Day for 2007 is tomorrow, Nov. 23. Take the challenge along with me.

Jerker

2007-11-19T19:37:00.000-07:00

Monday mornings rock my roll because I sleep in, wake to an empty house, then watch what Angie calls "stupid guy movies." I look forward to these few hours as its the only time in the week that I can turn off my brain and be. When it comes to the movie choice I usually go with something Angie loathes knowing it'll be my only chance.

Today I chose Rudy. Again. And cried. Again. Except this time much earlier. Usually my tears begin about the same time Rudy gets carried off the field although I've been known to cry earlier, like when he gets accepted into Notre Dame. This morning was an exception and I'm glad I was alone because 7 minutes in the tears began their descent. To be honest, I was kind of embarassed sitting on my couch all by my lonesome crying like a little girl, but there I was and I couldn't deny it. And I did nothing to try and stop it.

It turns out, there are many dudes who've had similar reactions. In fact, a survey was just completed asking men which movies they cried in the most and Rudy came out number one. No word yet how many of those men are straight. Jk. To be honest, it kind of felt good crying whilt snuggled up in my pj's and blanket with a fire roaring across the room. I felt free knowing no one would call or burst in the door with a smile and camera. So there I sat, for the entire 114 min allowing the tears to do their thing. By the time the movie ended my throat throbed and my mascara had run everywhere. Angie bounded in 8 minutes later but I timed it perfect and was in the shower, a perfect cover for weepy men.

Anyways, no religion and philosophy today. Just a grown man and his favorite movie.

John

P.S. The Five word blog. They are alive and well.

Is my humor dead?

2007-11-17T12:29:00.000-07:00

It just might be. I owe you guys an apology. Once again, trying to be humerous I think I've offended. Ian hit the nail on the head. He said "I attempted." All I was trying to do was inspire us to blog some more. I wasn't angry at all. I know that's probably hard to believe when I speak of "wretched blogs" and "selling your soul to Facebook" but truly, I only say such things to cause a smirk. Perhaps its not worth it when I'm the only one smirking.

Anyways, I truly do enjoy our community and no I don't think all our posts need to be wordy philosophical treatises on religion and culture. Write what you feel. That's all that matters. That and Go Facebook.

John

Is Blogging dead?

2007-11-16T14:27:00.000-07:00

If not, it's close. People don't blog because they want to become better writers. They blog because they feel obligated to "update" those who care. Its kinda sweet but lets be honest, now that Facebook is upon us why would we still engage in this crazy behaviour. Why write 500 words when you can write 5 or less on someone's wall. "I got a new job." "I'm no longer single." "I just discovered my birthmark is actually a third nipple." Blogging's tough because it encourages more words then 5. And better words then brb. Try blogging just 5 words sometime. I dare you. It'll feel like you went to work with only socks on. Or had just one Lays. (that's the chips by the way, dirty minded people)

We used to be a blogging community now it's once a month and usually sounds something like this "Man sorry guys, I don't know what's come over me. I used to blog all the time but now I just never can find the time. Well anyways, all is well, life is good. Blah Blah Freakin Blah." What's the deal? If you don't want to blog then erase the wretched thing and sell your soul to Facebook. Just don't come around here with your courtesy blogs doing it because, well I have a blog I might as well blog. And definitely don't do it for the ones in your life who care because they probably don't. Unless you're willing to write for real. That probably sounded more harsh then funny John intended.

I'm afraid even young Nicholas has fallen prey. In his case, I don't think the culprit is Facebook. Probably just got busy. *Laughter erupts*. I for one miss the guy. It used to be automatic. Every morning I'd awake excited to read yet another witty diatribe on absolutely nothing. It was my morning e-votional. Yet here I sit, 18 days dry.

Its not even just Nick that's left me parched. It's Kamara, Brian, Tim, Dave, Chelsey and computerless Blair. Jeremy's done a bit better and Jay is working on 3 days straight although YouTube doesn't count as a blog J, I tried that too. I'd say I miss my man Ty but the day that boy starts blogging my Oilers will stop getting injured.

In some ways, who am I to talk? I've gone in spurts at best but it's mostly because I sense the deadening of our community. I love to write and am one of the few who blogs in the hopes of actually improving but I'd much rather write for dialogue.

So what do you say? Let's bring back the blogging. Pick a day and just stick with it. Go ahead and do your Facebook, I've been seduced by it convenience too but in the end let's not leave the world of the blog. It goes beyond the wall as it teaches us to use words, a forgotten gift in our culture of lol's.

John

P.S. I just noticed Brian blogged today. Will you look at that.

At least I don't throw Salt over my shoulder

2007-11-05T15:34:00.000-07:00

Yesterday one of my teens asked if it was wrong to make wishes. I thought about all the times I had shut my eyes, desired fame and fortune then crunched down on my favorite Old Dutch. I thought about coins and how I had chucked them into wells and how that blue genie promised me 3 wishes if I separated my fingers and said Nanew Nanew. "Nah, I don't think so," was my spiritual response, then I countered by asking - "do you think it is?" She shook her head but the damage had already been done. We spent the rest of the time discussing wishes and the importance of walking in front of ladders.

Most people seem to be at least somewhat superstitious. I know I am. I haven't chucked Salt over my shoulder but I have retained facial hairs in the hope of seeing my Oilers build off their one game winning streak. Currently my face feels like a well lotioned bum.

I shared this with my teens (not the bum part) admitting that although I'm supertitious my superstitiousness is playful. For instance, I've been known to read my horoscope. When a goalie has a shutout going I refrain from saying "looks like he's gonna get a shutout." When I preach I wear my best underwear. When I buy milk I take the one at the back. When I walk, I avoid the cracks. I even hum a little tune when I go through yellow lights believing it throws the cops off. See. Playful right?

Although this makes me very odd, I'm no witch. Or Harry Potter. Which is great because my British Accent is East Indian. Besides, these habits are more OCD then OCCULT. I'm a man of nostalgic routine so I do silly things. Confession: My kids have learned from my example and can now be seen grabbing way in the back grocery items just like wierd dad. Behold, the sins of the father will be passed to the 3rd and 4th generations. Sorry about that grandkids.

In the end I convinced the class that I still believed in God, I just like colder milk. It was a good discussian. Made James come alive.

John

As if

2007-11-04T08:53:00.000-07:00

As we were driving back from papers this morning, Maddie looked over and calmly reminded me that she no longer believes in Santa. Cool as a cucumber I replied "why not" - as if there was a perfectly legitimate reason that she should. As if he can deliver all those presents in one night, she said- like she was trying to convince me. As if. Implying. . . how could anybody be so stupid as to actually believe one man, ONE MAN, could deliver all those presents. I wanted to say, uh, well. . you could be that stupid. In fact, you were that stupid. . .for seven years. As was I. And all of you. But I didn't. Thad be stupid. And mean. Bad fathering really.

Its funny how it finally dawns on us. One day we're totally buying it and the next day we're intellectual snobs, Santa, pfff, As if. The funny thing is nothing has changed. We haven't stumbled across some incriminating evidence linking the legend of Santa Claus to Wal-Mart or Tim Allen. We didn't catch our parents prancing around the house with presents in hand or bent down by the tree adjusting the gifts. I know for a fact my dad never pranced. Or bent down. So why I ask, why did we stop believing? And don't say we grew up or realized it was stupid because we have proved we are willing to believe in things a lot more far fetched then a nice man doling out gifts.

For example, how many of you are Flames fans? Still think their gonna win the cup?
How many of you are wives? Still think your man will be fart free one day?
How many of you are husbands? Still think your woman will come around on the whole farting thing?

See what I mean.

John

I got a new job

2007-11-02T08:53:00.000-06:00

I've become what you might call a "city transit guy". Angie takes the kids to school and because we're not a 2 car family I'm stuck riding the train. I say stuck like I just pushed order on the arsenic site and I'm making plans to off my wife. The truth is, I'm happy to ride and even happier with our new system. I get more time to read and Angie gets more time out and about as she calls it.

Because of this system I've gotten into a bit of a routine, which I never thought I'd like, but its actually kind of cool. Alarm goes off at the same time. Having only 14 minutes before my bus leaves yet still needing to dry off, get dressed, wipe peanut butter on my toast and throw last night's dinner into my backpack. Then whipping out the door while kissing the family goodbye and trotting across the road with only seconds to spare. Its kinda fun.

When I arrive on the bus I usually end up sitting by some woman over 50 because I've disocovered they're the nicest and don't mind scooting over a bit to accomadate my enormous bu. . .its a wierd phenomenon actually, the rest of me is skinny. As I ride I read. It only ever amounts to like 18 minutes but its a great way start to my day. Currently I'm reading this. I highly recommend it btw, hilarious and poignant.

Anyways, about a month ago, I began to notice this black fella as I got off at my last stop. He was handing out The Metro to everyone who would take it. The first few weeks I just ran on by, having already read the thing, but lately I've taken a bit more time to notice. The guy is cheerful. Unbelievably so. I can't imagine a worse job then handing out free newspapers in the worst area of town to a bunch of hooligans and grouchoes. Most people just run on past, including me, but lately I've slowed my pace and noticed. Good morning sir he'll say, in a british accent and so I'll reciprocate. . .Good morning. Last week I tried something different adding- I've already read it - to my repetoire. He'd laugh then say something to the effect of "I just missed you then." I would then skip off to work having just been cheered up by a man with no reason to be cheerful.

This morning I couldn't help myself. As I came down the stairs I reached out and grabbed his arm and did the squeeze shake thing. It was wierd, and corny, but the guy is just so dang cheerful I had to do something. As I grabbed him I said "haha, I already read it" which in retrospect was beyond moronic but he flashed his smile anyway and said "I just missed you then" then laughed a nice hearty laugh. I'm reminded of The Truman Show here but it really did go down like that.

As I bounded off to work I began to reflect on the difference this man has made in my life. His chosen career includes handing out free news to the disinterested yet he acts like its the best job he's ever had. It's made me realize many things but the biggest is: best jobs are relative. We can choose to love what we do or we can choose to be unsatisfied and pursue something else. This man has chosen to love what he does and because of that, he's helped me do the same.

I told someone last week I got a new job. They were shocked. But they don't know this man.

John

Ghosts

2007-10-27T16:44:00.000-06:00

I just told someone I believe in Ghosts. And it wasn't my shrink. It was some anonymous ghost junkie doing a poll online. Some 33000 people agreed with me while another 37000 did not. I find it wierd that I said I believe. I didn't really think about it I just clicked yes I believe in ghosts. But now that I'm thinking, I'm not sure I do. I mean I might, but I might not.

I definitely did when I was 7 and the lights were off and I was alone. I remember feeling so scared I would lie still as a stone knowing even the slightest twitch would alert the ghost and he'd show me his face and I would die of a fear attack. This stone lie would last for a few minutes until I threw back the blankets and made the courageous dash to the light switch. Because Ghosts can't survive in the light, ok. The lights would come on and I'd immediately feel better - even brave -and before I knew it this light would guide me to a sleepfilled night. This went on for 8 years until I learned mind to Ghost combat. You're not a ghost, you're a chair. Ghosts don't have suits hanging over them John. Just try to kill me Ghost, I've got God on my side. I lived the next 16 years worry free until one day I clicked yes I do believe in Ghosts.

Psychologists always tell us that our gut reaction to any question is what we truly believe. So do I? Do I believe in Ghosts?

Crap, I don't know now. Do I?

Do you?

John

Roller Skating

2007-10-18T21:14:00.001-06:00

I went roller skating last night. I saw pig-tailed 7 yr olds, Lesbians, cheesy couples and middle aged men. One such man was so into it he actually danced to the beat of the song whilst gliding around the dome. He was fast, I'll give him that, but still, I wonder if he knew others were present. And that he was dancing to Britney's newest. I mentioned the Lesbians. I'm not sure if they were the official card carrying type but they were decked out in shoulder pads, elbow pads, knee pads and a snarl that said "I will take you out." And not for a drink if you know what I mean. Every time they flew past me they grunted and I swear I saw smoke rise from their mouth. I steered clear.

The happy dancer and angry ladies were scary but it was the cheesy couples that did me in. Awww look, the girl doesn't know how to skate. Imagine that. Good thing she has her man to fondle I mean hold her. Some were more refined and just held hands, which would have been fine, even cute, but they insisted on ruining the moment with open mouthed smiles as if to say
"I love gliding beside you, I do, I do."

It was the music that threw me over the edge though. If your curious, go to imaflamer.com. It's available for download. And free if you have a roller skate membership.

Why go then John? I took the young adults, that's why. Problem was only 4 came. And they were the couples in love. Not the open mouthed ones mind you but still, its awkward, especially when I'm the youth minister and they're in love.

The night finally came to an end. We went for cheesecake after and I almost ordered an Appletini just because. I'm going back next Sunday. Taking the teens. Having ourselves a little Halloween party. Guys dressed up in costumes wearing makeup and girls dressed like meat eating carnivors. Hmm.

I think I deserve a raise.

John

We think we need things

2007-10-13T09:54:00.001-06:00

Guess I should get married. All my friends are. Probably should get a cell phone. It is 2007 you know. Just got Facebook. Better, if I hope to have friends. Need a new pair of jeans. My other pair is dirty. Time for another vacation. Been working hard. Lets redo the kitchen. We have the money.

We think we need things.

I guess we do. Its just hard to know which things. Do I really need that or do I just want it? How is one to know? Dictionary.com tells us that a need is "anything that we lack that is necessary." Pretty good definition. Although, what's necessary? For many a cell phone is. Even a vacation. For others not so much but they have the money so might as well. I still don't have a cell phone. Many times I think I need one yet something keeps me from signing on. I'm not sure what it is. God probably doesn't care what I do. He's got other things to worry about. Although, he probably assumes I'm worried about those same things, which, I am. I think. I probably will get a cell phone, I am in ministry after all, and I'm over 30 which means by law I'm supposed to carry one on my belt, to the left of my fanny pack. Still. . .do I need it? If I haven't for 30 years, why would I now?

Maybe my needs have changed. They probably have. Although, maybe my wants have increased. There's a good chance. I have more money then I ever have at any time in my life. Isn't that what growing up is all about, increasing your net worth? Security's important I guess, but do I really need a $300,000 house, ten of thousands in RRSP's and a half a million dollar life insurance policy? I'm convinced I do, obviously, but does that mean I do?

3 Billion people live on less then $2 a day. They obviously don't need those things. Its not even an option for them. So they make do. Do I make do, do you? And then some.

What would my lifestyle look like if I just made do? I guess first I would have to sit down and make a list of my needs. Then a list of my wants. Then give away all my wants and tend to my needs. Man, biggest garage sale in history that would be. Sorry John, you don't need 100+ dvds. Or an Ipod. Ok, you can keep the new car but only because you spent $6000 on your last one and it still blew up.

This is hard stuff to wrap my mind around. Are my needs dictated by where I live (300,000 for a house is bottom of the market) how much money I make (I'm just below average) and security (I'm just being responsible)? Is security today's Baal? Do I need God if everything's been taken care of? Of course I do, what if I get a disease? (I answer quickly)

Tomorrow I begin my fall series with the teens. We're talking about, wait for it. . .Consumerism. Needs vs Wants. That kind of stuff. I figured I should probably decide what I think on the subject before I implore them to think for themselves.

I think I've decided. I need to keep thinking. Especially after reading this:

"And God will generously provide all you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to share with others."

- 2 Corinthians 9:8 (Msg)

John

The Prince of Peace / The God of War

2007-10-07T14:26:00.001-06:00

Thanks to Jordan for this. I definitely plan on seeing it. Go here for more: http://www.themovieblog.com/godofwar/

Without a shirt

2007-10-06T15:20:00.000-06:00

This past week George Bush said no to increased medical funding for low income children. No doesn't even do it justice. For the fourth time in his presidency he used his power to overide the Senate effectively vetoeing a bill the majority had supported.

A few hours ago my family and I were driving through NE Calgary delivering Thanksgiving dinners to those in need. One house in particular stood out to me. As Angie and Lex walked with the box the question of safety fluttered through my mind. If the house wasn't falling down it was barely standing up and the windows might as well been saran wrap for all the good they were doing. They knocked. I tensed. A woman not much older then us opened the door and next thing I knew Angie had handed over the box and a smile broke out. As Angie began to walk back with Lex skipping along beside, a little boy with no shirt and pants much too short called out. Angie turned around as the boy, beaming, handed her home-made cards with the words, Thank you, have a wonderful thanksgiving, scrawled across, then he bounded back inside.

Why the veto, Mr. Bush? Its not like they were asking you to anty up. Smokers would take the hit and in the end 4 million more children would be cared for. One could even argue that the same people being taxed would be the same people being helped as often smokers are the ones who can't afford the necessary insurance for their kids, the same insurance that their habit has made necessary. Either way, kids should never have to pay the price for the decisions of self involved adults, whether its their smoking parents or vetoeing president. To his credit, Bush did wish to help, but only to the tune of 5 billion dollars, a miniscule amount compared to the cost of the Irag war for instance. Note: Current estimates put it at 1.2 Trillion Dollars. The focus of the government ought to be to help poor children and to focus on poor children, said Bush. I agree. I just don't think he does, or else he would have agreed to the 35 billion his own Senate had approved.

Our deliveries continued with much of the same yet no house rivaled the emotion we felt by the shirtless boy bearing homemade cards. The last house I delivered to was 30 minutes away so I dropped Angie and the kids off, the kids had reached the crazy I'm bored stage, and headed off. As I drove sounds from Angie's pink ipod made the time pass quickly. I finally arrived and after a few minutes of banging unsuccessfuly I phoned eager to inform them that their dinner had arrived. I was never able to reach them, even though I had called before I left and they assured me they'd be there, and so I was forced to leave having wasted over an hour of MY time. The dinner sits in my freezer waiting to be re-gifted.

I feel I have been fair in my analysis of Bush and his veto. I have refrained from harsh criticism and cynical rants, it is Thanksgiving after all. That being said, I do believe God's appointed leader, Bush's words not mine, must be held accountable for misplaced priorities. Any President who places war above caring for his nation's most vulnerable is a man in danger of maligning the same God he seeks to represent. The critiscm has been swift as the Democrats have deemed him heartless while his own Republican party has openly expressed their concern that he may have crippled them heading into the next election.

I'll be honest. As I drove away from the last house I ranted about how "ungrateful and irresponsible" the people were. But caring for the needy requires sacrifice. It means in order for them to win a lot, I must be willing to lose a little. An extra 30 Billion is a little, an hour and 30 minutes more is a little. A healthy child feeling cared for is a lot. Yes, even if he is still without a shirt.

John

Paul Potts singing Opera

2007-10-03T09:42:00.001-06:00

Thanks dad for this one. I agree with Simeon. I didn't expect that at all. WOW!!!

Weak in Sports

2007-10-01T22:21:00.000-06:00

What a week in sports. First off, the New York Mets completed the worst meltdown in the history of MLB. With a 7 game lead and only 17 to play they fell off a losing tree and hit every branch on the way down. Worst of all they gave up their right to play in October. For all you non baseballers, a seven game lead with 17 to go is large enough to drive a pregnant semi through. Somehow though, the Mets weren't able to do it and will now spend Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Valentine's day contemplating their loser ness. Ouch.

The team that squeaked in ahead of them was the Philadelphia Phillies, a team who had been written off by every analyst since June. As excited as they were they had to wait wondering who would be their opponent. All bets were cast in San Diego's favor but the Rockies had won something like 176 of their last several games so people were starting to get nervous - especially when Colorado forced a one game playoff, the first of its kind in decades. I just finished watching the game actually and in the bottom of the 13th, Colorado won it in dramatic fashion as Matt Holliday their MVP slid beside home plate yet the ump callled him safe. Note: Baseball usually discourages sliding beside a base. Anyways, the Phillies and Rockies will now play in the NLCS having both gotten there due to their brilliant play and the Mets and Padres choking to death. Who knew baseball could be this much fun?In other news, A Rod is guaranteed another MVP award after a fantastic 54 hr 150+ rbi season while the Jays will miss the playoffs yet again.

In the NFL, the Cowboys, Colts, and Patriots look amazing and at this point it's difficult to imagine anyone taking them down, apart from each other that is. I just watched some of the Patriot/Bengal game and gees, Brady is so relaxed he must have a hammock sown to his butt. And then there's the Aints. I mean the Saints. What's up with them? They were picked by many to Go All The Way, Chris Berman style. And the Bears? Grossman has thrown 7 interceptions and they're only 3 games in. They gave Rex the day off yesterday and they looked ok until, get this, they gave up 37 points in the fourth quarter and lost to the Detroit Lions. 37 points!?!?!? The Lions?!?!?!? Dang. That's awful. And then there's the whole Pats spying thing. I mean, cmon, spying? What, are we up in a tree with binoculars outside Sally Livington's house? Did you honestly need an advantage Bill? You've won 3 championships in the past 7 years not to mention ESPN reminds all its loyal listeners at least once a week that you're Jesus with a headset on. Why spy Bill? Leave Sally alone.

And finally we have hockey. The Oilers signed 2 -teenagers to contracts. Now granted, Gagner and Cogliano have lit it up as of late but still, signing 2 in one week is risky, which, is the Oilers way I guess and why I love them so much. Either way, I can't wait till Thursday. It should be an interesting season.

I didn't comment on the CFL because Montreal continues to falter without Calvillo, Sask continues their traditional mid season slump, the Bombers continue to look strong yet you just know their going to tank in the post season and BC looks to be a lock for the Cup. . .again. At least the cup final, I still have hopes my Bombers will pull it out.

So, there you have it, last week in the world of sports. I'm sure I missed zillions of other interesting things like Downie's 20 game suspension, the Flames impressive pre season record, LT's lack of TD's and Dutchie's continued over-use of lipstick but still, we've covered some good stuff and besides, its midnight.

John

Book are neat

2007-09-26T08:48:00.001-06:00

My favorite Fiction Books of the year were The Kite Runner and A Complicated Kindness. The Kite Runner was my chosen summer read and for a week I sat in the backyard blubbering away. I'm sure my neighbors thought something terrible had happened to me. One of the marks of a good book is you find yourself mulling over it weeks and months later. I don't want to say too much about the plot because I really want you all to read it but I will say this: at its core, its a story of a friendship between two boys living in Afghanistan. One boy is nobility and the other is not. You can imagine the challenges. There were parts of the book written so well I had to close it and go for a walk. Anyways, if your going to read it, do it before Novemember, that's when the movie comes out.

My other favorite was A Complicated Kindness. My darling wife recommended it to me saying it was incredibly witty, just like you John. Fine, she didn't say just like you John but she could have, which is my point. Now, I'm going to be honest here so don't shoot the messenger but. . my first reaction was "how funny can a book written by a woman be?" I know, I cringed typing that. Angie knew what I was thinking, I have 10 years of marriage to thank for that, because she said " if you're hesitant because its written by a woman, just give it a chance." Looking back, she could have been much meaner. Much meaner. And she would have been totally justified. Anyways, I cracked it open and am so glad I did because rarely have I read a book so witty yet so meaningful and true. It was highly entertaining and yes, moving, and I'll definitely read it again. The WOMAN that wrote it is a Canadian Mennonite living in Winnipeg.

As far as Non Fiction goes, I've read too many to pick just one, but my top 3 would be Blink, Three Cups of Tea, just finishing, and 28, even though I'm only 5 chapters in.

Books I plan to begin shortly are; Bible: A Biography, The World is Flat, A Thousand Splendid Suns, and Pillars of the Earth, my guilty pleasure.

I like books. Books are neat.

John

John says hello

2007-09-22T18:40:00.000-06:00

15 You Tube videos in the past 3 weeks??? Yikes. Sorry bout that everyone, guess I had a summer crush. Regardless, I figured I should actually write something seeing as a lot has happened.

I joined a quilting club for one . It really helps with the anger management. I'm about 28 squares in. Plus we won the lottery. $2 on a $1 scratch card. We were able to buy 18 blue whales. It was extra income so I dropped 1.8 in the collection bag last week. Other then that I've been baking up a storm and doing pushups every morning.

But enough about me, the biggest thing to report is the kids new schoool. I know I mentioned this a while back but we put the kids in this year. We found a fantastic charter school called Calgary Arts Academy. Its an arts immersion school and may very well be the best way to do school period. Everything is first hand, experiential, and engages all the senses. Couches replace desks, student learning contracts replace homework, passionate teachers replace ones just doing their time. Every time I go there I choke up unable to believe my kids are recieving an experience this good. Its a parents dream to see their kids thriving. I'm a lucky dad indeed.

Besides school, I have been able to get much more socially involved by serving on a the Board of Neighbor-link, an organization that partners with churches to care for the poor. I never believed the day would come where I'd be board material but hey, that's life. Besides Neighborlink I've been working hard with the shelters as we get set for another year of Homeless Partners. We're expecting to interview over 1000 of Calgary's homeless this year. The media is always kind to us so check the news every night. I'm kidding. But still. . .
Other than that, I've just begun my seventh year of youth ministry and am having a great time especially as we plan to return to Tijuana next summer. Cheap drugs there apparently.

Here's something great. We got rid of our van, traded it in for something. . .operational. We invested $6000 into that van this year only to lose it all. Not lying. My anger has subsided thanks to the quilting and our NEW CAR!!! Think Bob Barker and that last line will really come alive. Yes, we got a 2008 Toyota Matrix and couldn't be happier. I'll take some pics soon. I think the Closes may just become Toyota for lifers. (TFL's)

I could tell you more but let's be honest, most of you probably skim anyways so I might as well end here. I plan to write much more now that winter is coming. I hope you do too.

Bring on the Grid Blog!!! I'll start us off with something easy: The best book you read last year and why. Post by next week.

Note: A Grid Blog is where we all write on the same topic with the same deadline.

John

Move over Shakira

2007-09-16T14:28:00.001-06:00

I grew up during this time. Sigh.

Ok seriously last one, just go to You Tube!

2007-09-15T13:52:00.001-06:00

Standing ovation

2007-09-15T13:41:00.001-06:00

Bzzz

2007-09-15T13:34:00.001-06:00

Love the guy at the end - swat those things.

We're addicted

2007-09-15T13:27:00.001-06:00

Riiiiiip

2007-09-15T13:07:00.001-06:00

Warning- not for the shy

2007-09-15T13:04:00.001-06:00

Red Flag demonstration

2007-09-14T17:39:00.001-06:00

soooooo funny.

This is what we got now

2007-09-14T15:34:00.001-06:00

It's a Matrix. Speedway Blue. Pics to come on Monday.

This is what we just got rid of

2007-09-14T15:30:00.001-06:00

The best of Just For Laughs Part 2

2007-09-11T22:21:00.001-06:00

Soooo funny. Trust me. We were crying.

So true

2007-09-11T11:12:00.000-06:00

The way you see people is the way you treat them and the way you treat them is what they become.

- Goethe

Grid Blog - Belief

2007-09-01T13:12:00.000-06:00

Growing up I believed in many things. For instance. . .Santa Claus . I remember Paul Wood threatening to tell Santa I was "naughty" if I didn't hand back his comb I had stolen moments earlier. A comb has never been handed back so quickly, an act, come to think of it, that would have come in handy for our Canadian 4x100 relay team yesterday. I was terrified, though, so I had to, knowing I would be presentless if I didn't. My belief had been that strong.

I remember trembling as Paul Quilliams told me tales of a midget living in the pipes at North Weyburn. He warned if I ever told anyone the midget would know and I'd be dead. For weeks I couldn't sleep terrified of that very small and lethal man. One night, when I couldn't take it anymore, I ran into my parents room and told them all I knew about this midget and his pipes. I shook with terror as I uttered the forbidden words. My belief had been that strong.

I remember skating hard, knowing one day I would play in the NHL. Sure I had started 3 years behind everyone else and couldn't skate backwards if my life depended on it, but that didn't matter because I was right wing and determined to excel. I remember the lemon in my throat the day my coach informed me that "I hadn't made the team." Tears still haven't fallen as hard as they did that day. My belief had been that strong.

I remember believing God was real. If I wasn't reading his words in the bible I was talking to him - out loud even - knowing he was listening to every word. Recently my mom told me that I asked so many questions about heaven she feared it meant I would die young. My belief had been that strong.

Scripture encourages us to believe as a child, for only a child will inherit the kingdom of heaven. But scripture also tells us when we become adults we leave childish things behind us, things like our thoughts and understanding even the things we believe.

For instance, I no longer believe in Santa Claus, the man in the pipes, or that I will play for the Oilers. If I did I would be declared insane and be forced to spend time with a therapist. As far as God goes, I still believe, but not as I once did. Now I only see a dim likeness of things. Paul goes on to say that someday I'll see clearly because what I know now is incomplete. I believe him because that's how I feel. Incomplete. Unsatisfied. Like losing in the 7th game of the Stanley Cup playoffs or finding out mixed vegetables is all that's left at the buffet.

I want my belief to be strong. I want to believe as I once did but I'm no longer sure its up to me. I'm not sure its up to any of us. Sure it is, just believe, one might suggest. Ok then. I'll just believe. Wait. How does one just believe? Close their eyes and concentrate real hard. Repeat over and over"I do believe in fairies I do, I do." I'm pretty sure that wouldn't work even if it did for Peter Pan. In fact, I'm pretty sure all the sincere concentrating or uttering in the world wouldn't change the fact that I do not believe in Santa Claus or that there's a murderous midget living in the pipes. I suppose I could choose to believe in those things in order to score more presents at Christmas time or scare someone else with tales of lethal midgets but in the end, all my choosing to believe would accomplish is the deceit of everyone, including myself. This brings me to my point. Finally.

When it comes to beliefs, we don't choose them, they choose us. We either believe in something or we don't. People don't choose to believe in God. They either lie and say they do when they really don't or they pretend like they don't when they secretly do. At no point do they choose because in order to believe in something a person must first be convicted by that something. And conviction is never the result of choice. Its either there or its not.

Have you ever tried to cheer for a different sports team just because you moved? Ever try to convince yourself someone is a good friend when you know they actually aren't? Ever try to get passionate about helping the poor because you thought you should be or because Brad Pitt is? Ever try to convince yourself that special someone was right for you? Ever try to still believe in Santa Claus? How does it feel when you try to believe in something?

As human beings we think we can fake belief but we end up decieving ourselves. Belief is a result of something that wells up deep inside us when the time is right. Like going to Uganda for instance. Before they left, Kris and Tyler and Kori may have chosen to believe that serving the poor was important, but based on conversations and blogs I've had with them since, its obvious they now believe. Is it because they chose to believe? Or did their conviction overwhelm them and the belief chose them? I am at a point in my life where I am slowly returning to the belief of my childhood. Belief is beginning to choose me once again and my relationship with God is climbing to heights yet unseen.

So what are you to do? Wait for the belief moment to come or choose to believe now?
While your deciding take comfort from these words of Goethe.

"Let us seek to fathom those things that are fathomable and reserve those things that are unfathomable for reverence and quietude."

John

Rob Bell - Oil

2007-08-31T14:23:00.001-06:00

Ha Ha. Ever heard of Rob Bell? Nooma. Ha Ha. Enjoy.
(Ok NOW its time to get back to work)

Parents of Miss Teen South Carolina

2007-08-31T14:15:00.001-06:00

Oh man. Ok, back to work.

Miss Teen South Carolina Calls 911

2007-08-31T14:14:00.001-06:00

Ha Ha Ha Ha. She had to expect this.

Darfur

2007-08-30T10:00:00.000-06:00

Darfur has been called "the greatest humantarian crisis of our time." I know, so has Aids, poverty, war etc. The unique thing with Darfur though is it encompasses all those things and more. If you're like me, you may not be as informed as you feel you should be but you're not sure you want to take the week off work to get caught up on everything you've missed.

Here's a great resource that will get you in the know without having to take off work.

John

Miss Teen USA South Carolina 2007 with Subtitles

2007-08-30T09:02:00.001-06:00

You gotta admit, it was a VERY tough question.