Ha Ha. Ever heard of Rob Bell? Nooma. Ha Ha. Enjoy.
(Ok NOW its time to get back to work)
Friday, August 31, 2007
Rob Bell - Oil
Thursday, August 30, 2007
Darfur
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
Here's a great resource that will get you in the know without having to take off work.
John
Monday, August 27, 2007
Saturday, August 25, 2007
Mother Theresa's letters
"Lord, my God, you have thrown me away as unwanted- unloved. I call, I cling, I want and there is no one to answer, no, no one."
"Alone, where is my faith? Even deep down there is nothing. I have no faith. I dare not utter the words and thoughts that crowd my heart."
Mother Theresa's words are causing quite the stir, to the point of people questioning her sainthood. I don't know much about being a saint and how that all works, other than the visions and the burnings. A lot of gore and tragedy, really. But I guess it's different now, and Mother Theresa who loved and served and gave for her entire life has been given the honour of sainthood. Without the medeival embellishments of sun like rays eminating from her head and singing to her death in a fire. She didn't need the embellishments because we all knew her. Knew her words and her love and her wrinkled hands, and now we know she had doubts. Major ones, and for some reason people are perplexed and even upset. Maybe a little too much reality, maybe some people want the singing in the fire, I don't know. But I'm convinced that the book of her quotes that John and I have on our shelf would be pretty one dimensional if they came from a woman who had a spotless faith and a gleaming halo. Instead, her words reveal an insight and sincerity that would be impossible without some pretty intense searching and questioning.
I'm not sure exactly how all these letters came out, or why, I haven't followed it that much. I'm guessing it wasn't to encourage the doubting or shed light on Mother Theresa's depth and complexity. And as much as it exposes her most private thoughts, which just seems wrong, I hope that in the end it will inspire and deepen the respect that others feel towards her; a woman who dedicated her life to loving the unloved in spite of her inner turmoil and conflict. Maybe because of it. Without constant assurance of a reward, or even the reward of those she was helping. Without the simplicity of following black and white commandments. A woman of material simplicity, it appears there was nothing simple about her soul. And I love her all the more because of that.
Ang
"Alone, where is my faith? Even deep down there is nothing. I have no faith. I dare not utter the words and thoughts that crowd my heart."
Mother Theresa's words are causing quite the stir, to the point of people questioning her sainthood. I don't know much about being a saint and how that all works, other than the visions and the burnings. A lot of gore and tragedy, really. But I guess it's different now, and Mother Theresa who loved and served and gave for her entire life has been given the honour of sainthood. Without the medeival embellishments of sun like rays eminating from her head and singing to her death in a fire. She didn't need the embellishments because we all knew her. Knew her words and her love and her wrinkled hands, and now we know she had doubts. Major ones, and for some reason people are perplexed and even upset. Maybe a little too much reality, maybe some people want the singing in the fire, I don't know. But I'm convinced that the book of her quotes that John and I have on our shelf would be pretty one dimensional if they came from a woman who had a spotless faith and a gleaming halo. Instead, her words reveal an insight and sincerity that would be impossible without some pretty intense searching and questioning.
I'm not sure exactly how all these letters came out, or why, I haven't followed it that much. I'm guessing it wasn't to encourage the doubting or shed light on Mother Theresa's depth and complexity. And as much as it exposes her most private thoughts, which just seems wrong, I hope that in the end it will inspire and deepen the respect that others feel towards her; a woman who dedicated her life to loving the unloved in spite of her inner turmoil and conflict. Maybe because of it. Without constant assurance of a reward, or even the reward of those she was helping. Without the simplicity of following black and white commandments. A woman of material simplicity, it appears there was nothing simple about her soul. And I love her all the more because of that.
Ang
Monday, August 20, 2007
Uganda, Afghanistan, Calgary. . .
My inlaws are in town, which don't get me wrong, is great, but I thought I'd step away from them and write a bit. If you haven't figured it out yet, I write in order to work stuff out. Here's what's been on my mind as of late.
For one, I've been keeping up with my good buddies Ty, Kori and Kris as they experience Uganda. If you haven't done so yourself I highly recommend you do. Exciting, Inspiring and Engrossing stuff. In fact, as I read, specifically the stuff related to thier mission not poop, I can't help but wonder if there is anything of significance I have ever done. Please let me question, I'm not looking for reassurance here, just wondering out loud. I realize ministering to a Calgarian and a Ugandan is the same in terms of importance, 2 human beings, but still I read their reports and I feel this incredible burden that what their doing is so needed yet here I am just tinkering around in Calgary doing God knows what with teenagers who may or may not be benefiting.
I've also been reading this book called Three Cups of Tea. Its a true story and wowwee its been working overtime on me. This guy named Greg set out to climb K2 only to get lost and disoriented until the day he wondered into an indigeneous village in Afghanistan and collapsed. When he awoke he was being cared for by what would turn out to be the most remarkable people he had ever met. In fact, Greg was the first outsider to the village in a couple hundred years. The people nursed him back to health and Greg quickly realized that they were as poor as they were generous - which demands a second read. The children in the village had no school yet they met faithfully every day in a dirt field where the only person who wasn't completely illiterate would attempt to teach them. The day Greg left he vowed he'd be back to build them a school. That's what I've read up too. A quick glance of the back of the book will tell you that Greg did indeed return. Anyways, having just read The Kite Runner my mind was already stuck in Afghanistan so this book has just kept me there.
Friends bringing joy to hundreds of Ugandan children. A mountain climber making promises to indigenous people in Afghanistan. A minister in Calgary distracted by these things whilst his family cries out for the 5th time that "its time to play Trivial Pursuit." The minister stops his thinking and goes.
John
For one, I've been keeping up with my good buddies Ty, Kori and Kris as they experience Uganda. If you haven't done so yourself I highly recommend you do. Exciting, Inspiring and Engrossing stuff. In fact, as I read, specifically the stuff related to thier mission not poop, I can't help but wonder if there is anything of significance I have ever done. Please let me question, I'm not looking for reassurance here, just wondering out loud. I realize ministering to a Calgarian and a Ugandan is the same in terms of importance, 2 human beings, but still I read their reports and I feel this incredible burden that what their doing is so needed yet here I am just tinkering around in Calgary doing God knows what with teenagers who may or may not be benefiting.
I've also been reading this book called Three Cups of Tea. Its a true story and wowwee its been working overtime on me. This guy named Greg set out to climb K2 only to get lost and disoriented until the day he wondered into an indigeneous village in Afghanistan and collapsed. When he awoke he was being cared for by what would turn out to be the most remarkable people he had ever met. In fact, Greg was the first outsider to the village in a couple hundred years. The people nursed him back to health and Greg quickly realized that they were as poor as they were generous - which demands a second read. The children in the village had no school yet they met faithfully every day in a dirt field where the only person who wasn't completely illiterate would attempt to teach them. The day Greg left he vowed he'd be back to build them a school. That's what I've read up too. A quick glance of the back of the book will tell you that Greg did indeed return. Anyways, having just read The Kite Runner my mind was already stuck in Afghanistan so this book has just kept me there.
Friends bringing joy to hundreds of Ugandan children. A mountain climber making promises to indigenous people in Afghanistan. A minister in Calgary distracted by these things whilst his family cries out for the 5th time that "its time to play Trivial Pursuit." The minister stops his thinking and goes.
John
Thursday, August 16, 2007
10 years ago
10 years ago today I married the only woman who said yes when I asked her to marry me. Angela Fern Ellis is the greatest thing to happen to me and no words can describe one so lovely as her. Still, I'm gonna try cause words is all I got.
I met Angie in the Fall of 95. At the time I was single and thought I had seen all WCC had to offer. That sounds a lot worse than I meant it. I guess that's why when I saw Angie for the first time I was intrigued. Who is this girl that nobody knows? I spent my entire life growing up at WCC and I knew everybody including everybody's parents and grandparents. I didn't know Angie though, she was an outsider to the ways of the WCC and I liked that. A lot.
Over the next few weeks I did everything to get Angie to notice me. I ran fast, shot out my best zingers in class and even shared my Jalepeno/Cheddar chips. Apparently it worked because before I knew it she was sitting beside me every Thursday night in Psychology class. As interesting as the class was *cough, gag* I took my chances studying Angie instead. We would write notes back and forth and back and forth and back and - you get the picture. For 3 hours we did this, it was great. In fact, it was crucial. Without it, I might just be writing about someone else. That sounds a lot worse than I meant it.
October rolled around and the College announced we'd be taking a trip to Abilene, Texas for the World Mission Workshop. I signed up right away and soon discovered Angie had signed up too. 24 hours in the van for two days straight pretty much cemented our relationship. We talked nonstop about everything and anything and by the time we arrived in Texas we were in love. We attended all the same sessions and although I'm sure they were terrific all I can remember is my fluttering heart, sweaty palms and dry mouth. On the way back to Dauphin I held her hand for the first time and our relationship became official. Halloween morning, 1995.
Over the next year our relationship grew and by the next October we had signed up to attend the next WMW trip. Its a good thing we did because I asked her to spend the rest of her life with me on that trip. I was a starving student so I gave her a ring compliments of those .25 machines in Walmart. (Later I cashed my entire A&W paycheque and gave her a real one.)
I even got down on one knee and she cried and I know it sounds really romantic but it kinda wasn't, ha ha, another story for another time. The important thing is she said yes and I said "really?" Ha Ha.
Fast forward 10 months and there we were in the nicest church in Dauphin waiting to get married. I remember walking in wondering why nobody had stood for me, just kidding, and then standing on the stage awaiting my bride. That's the longest wait I've ever had. It kinda sucks having to wait as five other girls walk down the aisle first. Five girls I have no interest in marrying. That sounds a lot worse than I meant. . .actually no, I did mean it that way. I think the girls should just come in the back or be lowered in from the roof or something. Save the aisle for the bride.
Anyways, the moment finally arrived. The doors to the church opened letting in sunlight and doves, ok no doves but there should have been, and then in walked the most beautiful sight these eyes have ever seen. I still tear up as I remember this angel in white coming towards me. I remember crying without my permission. I couldn't help it. She was enchanting. She was mine. And she always would be.
I have told Angie many times that she is everything I always wanted but didn't know it at the time. She has always exceeded any and all expectations of mine adding to the profound gratefulness I feel because of her. Many times I shake my head wondering what she sees in a gas filled silly boy like me. I've ruled out money and good looks.
In many ways our first decade of marriage was more about me and my life then hers. After all it was I who went to school and it was I who moved the family to Calgary to take the job I was given. As I look towards our second decade I see a change. I see myself stepping back as Angie steps forward. I see myself flickering in the background as Angie shines bright. I see a man supporting his wife as she deserves to be supported. I see a husband overwhelmed with pride for a woman who's mmm so good.
Without Angie I would be lost. Unbearably lost. She holds me together and keeps me there.
I love her more than words. . . plus she's incredibly sexy. Smoking hot really.
That sounds just like I meant it.
Happy Anniversary babes.
John
I met Angie in the Fall of 95. At the time I was single and thought I had seen all WCC had to offer. That sounds a lot worse than I meant it. I guess that's why when I saw Angie for the first time I was intrigued. Who is this girl that nobody knows? I spent my entire life growing up at WCC and I knew everybody including everybody's parents and grandparents. I didn't know Angie though, she was an outsider to the ways of the WCC and I liked that. A lot.
Over the next few weeks I did everything to get Angie to notice me. I ran fast, shot out my best zingers in class and even shared my Jalepeno/Cheddar chips. Apparently it worked because before I knew it she was sitting beside me every Thursday night in Psychology class. As interesting as the class was *cough, gag* I took my chances studying Angie instead. We would write notes back and forth and back and forth and back and - you get the picture. For 3 hours we did this, it was great. In fact, it was crucial. Without it, I might just be writing about someone else. That sounds a lot worse than I meant it.
October rolled around and the College announced we'd be taking a trip to Abilene, Texas for the World Mission Workshop. I signed up right away and soon discovered Angie had signed up too. 24 hours in the van for two days straight pretty much cemented our relationship. We talked nonstop about everything and anything and by the time we arrived in Texas we were in love. We attended all the same sessions and although I'm sure they were terrific all I can remember is my fluttering heart, sweaty palms and dry mouth. On the way back to Dauphin I held her hand for the first time and our relationship became official. Halloween morning, 1995.
Over the next year our relationship grew and by the next October we had signed up to attend the next WMW trip. Its a good thing we did because I asked her to spend the rest of her life with me on that trip. I was a starving student so I gave her a ring compliments of those .25 machines in Walmart. (Later I cashed my entire A&W paycheque and gave her a real one.)
I even got down on one knee and she cried and I know it sounds really romantic but it kinda wasn't, ha ha, another story for another time. The important thing is she said yes and I said "really?" Ha Ha.
Fast forward 10 months and there we were in the nicest church in Dauphin waiting to get married. I remember walking in wondering why nobody had stood for me, just kidding, and then standing on the stage awaiting my bride. That's the longest wait I've ever had. It kinda sucks having to wait as five other girls walk down the aisle first. Five girls I have no interest in marrying. That sounds a lot worse than I meant. . .actually no, I did mean it that way. I think the girls should just come in the back or be lowered in from the roof or something. Save the aisle for the bride.
Anyways, the moment finally arrived. The doors to the church opened letting in sunlight and doves, ok no doves but there should have been, and then in walked the most beautiful sight these eyes have ever seen. I still tear up as I remember this angel in white coming towards me. I remember crying without my permission. I couldn't help it. She was enchanting. She was mine. And she always would be.
I have told Angie many times that she is everything I always wanted but didn't know it at the time. She has always exceeded any and all expectations of mine adding to the profound gratefulness I feel because of her. Many times I shake my head wondering what she sees in a gas filled silly boy like me. I've ruled out money and good looks.
In many ways our first decade of marriage was more about me and my life then hers. After all it was I who went to school and it was I who moved the family to Calgary to take the job I was given. As I look towards our second decade I see a change. I see myself stepping back as Angie steps forward. I see myself flickering in the background as Angie shines bright. I see a man supporting his wife as she deserves to be supported. I see a husband overwhelmed with pride for a woman who's mmm so good.
Without Angie I would be lost. Unbearably lost. She holds me together and keeps me there.
I love her more than words. . . plus she's incredibly sexy. Smoking hot really.
That sounds just like I meant it.
Happy Anniversary babes.
John
Saturday, August 11, 2007
Strengths
I know what you're thinking. Finally a post about me. Perhaps. We shall see.
I had the PLEASURE of attending Willow Creek's Leadership Summit on Thurs and Friday. Bill Hybels is a classy fellow and I have to give him full props. He speaks from the heart and always manages to make inroads into mine. I especially applaud his public admission of his neglection of the poor. There are few men that have more influence in Churchworld then Mr. Bill so to hear him publically declare before 100000 leaders our need to eradicate poverty - well, it was music to my soul.
My Summit highlights were Richard Curtis and Marcus Buckingham although I have to give honorable mention to Colin (prounounced Colon) Powell. I was especially amused to hear a Colon talking about probing the organization. Tee hee. All jokes aside, he was very good too. Definitely didn't stink the place up. Ha ha, oh John, you're too much.
Richard and ol Marcus hit me the hardest though.
Richard Curtis is a film director, producer and writer. In fact he wrote Mr Bean, Notting Hill, Love Actually and Four Weddings and a Funeral so you already know he's funny. On top of that though he is HUGELY involved in the fight to eradicate Poverty which is why he Co founded Make Poverty History as well as Produced Idol Gives back. Through his efforts his has raised Billions of Dollars and mobilized Hundreds of the kind of people with Huge Coin, as well as normal people like me. Anyways, I quite like the guy, especially now, and each day I check the mailbox to see if the life size poster of him has come in. Not really.
As inspiring as Richard Curtis was, Marcus B was my favorite. He wrote the best selling book - Go Put Your Strengths to Work, among other ones. The man is all about the strength, which is humerous, because he's quite skinny and British and very white. Still, he's hilarious and very very smart. I don't recall taking a breath throught the entire hour. I really believe that his stuff if put into practice could be revolutionary. - especially for the 20's crowd. The amazing thing is his stuff is so basic you'd think everyone would already know. His basic premise is - we must live our lives through our strengths. Most of us believe in order to become more successful we must strengthen our weaknesses. Marcus claims we must forget about our weaknesses and instead focus on strengthening our strengths. We are to choose our top 3 and then organize our entire life around them. For instance, if your strength is making people laugh, well you'd probably me, (my other strengths are humility and juggling) - but seriously, if humor is your strength then the theory is you are to use it in everything - vocation, relationships, leadership etc - even reorganize your life to play to your strengths. If you live your life through your strengths all aspects of your life will be stronger, yes, even your weaknesses.
If you don't know your strengths do this. Carry a pad and pen everywhere you go for one week. Every time you do something that you love, write it down. And I mean everything, a job, hobby, conversation, a choice, anything. At the same time everytime you do something you hate, write that down. Chart out the two categories. At the end of your week read them over and your strengths will bubble to the surface, as well as your weaknesses. Pick the top 3 strengths, put them to work and you shall have your revolution. I'm excited to get started.
His book is like a billion pages long and my strength is not summarizing or shortness so I'll stop. Just go read it. If your strength isn't reading, well, cunundrum.
The Summit was a good thing. I'm glad I went.
Before I sign off, I should quickly comment on Bonds.
He broke the record as we all knew he would and I was fortunate enough to see it live on my Tv, no highlights. I must admit, even though I know he's more doped up then a doped up person on dope, when he hit the home run I do believe I jumped up and yelled Whoo Hoo!
I'm not sure why I was so gladened by it especially when it seems so obvious he cheated.
Not sure at all.
Really don't know.
Hmmm.
John
I had the PLEASURE of attending Willow Creek's Leadership Summit on Thurs and Friday. Bill Hybels is a classy fellow and I have to give him full props. He speaks from the heart and always manages to make inroads into mine. I especially applaud his public admission of his neglection of the poor. There are few men that have more influence in Churchworld then Mr. Bill so to hear him publically declare before 100000 leaders our need to eradicate poverty - well, it was music to my soul.
My Summit highlights were Richard Curtis and Marcus Buckingham although I have to give honorable mention to Colin (prounounced Colon) Powell. I was especially amused to hear a Colon talking about probing the organization. Tee hee. All jokes aside, he was very good too. Definitely didn't stink the place up. Ha ha, oh John, you're too much.
Richard and ol Marcus hit me the hardest though.
Richard Curtis is a film director, producer and writer. In fact he wrote Mr Bean, Notting Hill, Love Actually and Four Weddings and a Funeral so you already know he's funny. On top of that though he is HUGELY involved in the fight to eradicate Poverty which is why he Co founded Make Poverty History as well as Produced Idol Gives back. Through his efforts his has raised Billions of Dollars and mobilized Hundreds of the kind of people with Huge Coin, as well as normal people like me. Anyways, I quite like the guy, especially now, and each day I check the mailbox to see if the life size poster of him has come in. Not really.
As inspiring as Richard Curtis was, Marcus B was my favorite. He wrote the best selling book - Go Put Your Strengths to Work, among other ones. The man is all about the strength, which is humerous, because he's quite skinny and British and very white. Still, he's hilarious and very very smart. I don't recall taking a breath throught the entire hour. I really believe that his stuff if put into practice could be revolutionary. - especially for the 20's crowd. The amazing thing is his stuff is so basic you'd think everyone would already know. His basic premise is - we must live our lives through our strengths. Most of us believe in order to become more successful we must strengthen our weaknesses. Marcus claims we must forget about our weaknesses and instead focus on strengthening our strengths. We are to choose our top 3 and then organize our entire life around them. For instance, if your strength is making people laugh, well you'd probably me, (my other strengths are humility and juggling) - but seriously, if humor is your strength then the theory is you are to use it in everything - vocation, relationships, leadership etc - even reorganize your life to play to your strengths. If you live your life through your strengths all aspects of your life will be stronger, yes, even your weaknesses.
If you don't know your strengths do this. Carry a pad and pen everywhere you go for one week. Every time you do something that you love, write it down. And I mean everything, a job, hobby, conversation, a choice, anything. At the same time everytime you do something you hate, write that down. Chart out the two categories. At the end of your week read them over and your strengths will bubble to the surface, as well as your weaknesses. Pick the top 3 strengths, put them to work and you shall have your revolution. I'm excited to get started.
His book is like a billion pages long and my strength is not summarizing or shortness so I'll stop. Just go read it. If your strength isn't reading, well, cunundrum.
The Summit was a good thing. I'm glad I went.
Before I sign off, I should quickly comment on Bonds.
He broke the record as we all knew he would and I was fortunate enough to see it live on my Tv, no highlights. I must admit, even though I know he's more doped up then a doped up person on dope, when he hit the home run I do believe I jumped up and yelled Whoo Hoo!
I'm not sure why I was so gladened by it especially when it seems so obvious he cheated.
Not sure at all.
Really don't know.
Hmmm.
John
Monday, August 06, 2007
My Vacation Post
Ahhh. Such a sweet vacation. I stayed true to my word and spent most of it sitting on my butt in the backyard whilst spitting seeds and gulping coffee. I think I've found my true calling in this world. . One of the books I read was a gem called The Kite Runner. I knew the risk involved in starting a 400 pager especially one of this depth but 36 hours later I was finished, in more ways than one. I'm not one to cry whilst reading a book, Angie does enough of that for the both of us, but this one did me in. That being said, as with all great books it also managed to put me back together again. Themes of injustice and inequality always manage to wreck me but I still seem to come back for more. Perhaps thats not an all together bad thing.
Another book I read was recommended to me by Steve McMillan. It's called "Let your Life Speak." Its about how to discern your vocation by knowing your true self. I know, I know, it sounds like another "one of those" - but it isn't. Very provocative and highly recommended for any of you tredding water in the ocean of career or self. Its already forced me to ask some tough questions. Still awaiting the answers though.
Besides reading, I watched some great movies. Last night, Angie and I saw The Bourne Ultimatum. Already being a fan of both the series and Matt Damon chances were high that it wouldn't disapoint. It was incredible, maybe even the best of the three. Go see it.
I also rewatched The Skeleton Key, Catch me if you Can and a whole lot of Arrested Developement - even funnier the 2nd time.
Ha, if you think I'm the laziest son of a gun alive you'd be right. Although, there's no other way to holiday in my books. That being said, we did get out and do some cool stuff - the best being Drumheller - the dinosaur place/home of Jaydee Bixby, depending which you like more. The dinosaurs were truly amazing, I couldn't hardly believe I was staring face to face with bones 300 million years old - especially since scientists planted them in the ground 200 years ago in order to discredit the bible. Sorry, sometimes the cynicism just leaps out of me.
We also went to the park with the kids and dogs, the highlight there being teaching the kids how to bravely climb a tree then beam with pride as their Dad carves their initials into the same tree. As much as it pains me to say it, we even managed to get some work done including completing reno's began 3 yrs ago - you know how that goes. It felt good to get it done even if I swore I wouldn't lift a finger this week.
I start back to work tomorrow excited and energized to go another round with the teens. This will be my 7th year in youth ministry which makes me 31 and apparently a glutton for punishment. All jokes aside, I am looking forward to this year as we return to Mexico and get even more involved in social justice. I'm also working with the young adults this year which I'm very excited about, the 20 somethings are neat. Unlike that description.
Next time you book "holidays" do yourself a favor and keep to the backyard. It'll soothe your soul.
John
Another book I read was recommended to me by Steve McMillan. It's called "Let your Life Speak." Its about how to discern your vocation by knowing your true self. I know, I know, it sounds like another "one of those" - but it isn't. Very provocative and highly recommended for any of you tredding water in the ocean of career or self. Its already forced me to ask some tough questions. Still awaiting the answers though.
Besides reading, I watched some great movies. Last night, Angie and I saw The Bourne Ultimatum. Already being a fan of both the series and Matt Damon chances were high that it wouldn't disapoint. It was incredible, maybe even the best of the three. Go see it.
I also rewatched The Skeleton Key, Catch me if you Can and a whole lot of Arrested Developement - even funnier the 2nd time.
Ha, if you think I'm the laziest son of a gun alive you'd be right. Although, there's no other way to holiday in my books. That being said, we did get out and do some cool stuff - the best being Drumheller - the dinosaur place/home of Jaydee Bixby, depending which you like more. The dinosaurs were truly amazing, I couldn't hardly believe I was staring face to face with bones 300 million years old - especially since scientists planted them in the ground 200 years ago in order to discredit the bible. Sorry, sometimes the cynicism just leaps out of me.
We also went to the park with the kids and dogs, the highlight there being teaching the kids how to bravely climb a tree then beam with pride as their Dad carves their initials into the same tree. As much as it pains me to say it, we even managed to get some work done including completing reno's began 3 yrs ago - you know how that goes. It felt good to get it done even if I swore I wouldn't lift a finger this week.
I start back to work tomorrow excited and energized to go another round with the teens. This will be my 7th year in youth ministry which makes me 31 and apparently a glutton for punishment. All jokes aside, I am looking forward to this year as we return to Mexico and get even more involved in social justice. I'm also working with the young adults this year which I'm very excited about, the 20 somethings are neat. Unlike that description.
Next time you book "holidays" do yourself a favor and keep to the backyard. It'll soothe your soul.
John
Friday, August 03, 2007
JE$U$
Walmart's coming out with a new line of Bible toys. Scripture quoting Jesus and a few Old Testament characters that did great and wonderful things like Not Being Burned Alive and Having Long Hair (I think they decided against the Samson doll with the bloody donkey's jaw and stained virtue. And the drunk naked Noah, in the cave, with his daughters. Sorry, Noah, that's just grosse. Let's slap on a puffy white beard and stick you in a boat with heart shaped windows. And smiling giraffes. In kid friendly colours. That's more like it, Noah. Smile for the camera.)
I get it. I get that we want good and wholesome toys for our kids. I'm not a Bratz fan, I'm not even a Barbie fan. Even with the New Smaller Boobs and the Career Aspirations. I'm not a big fan of mindless toys that play by themselves, just press the button and watch. So, I get the need for new and different toys on Walmart shelves. But I also get that if someone wants to make a buck, all they have to do is market something to We the Christian Right. Because we like Bible based stuff and mugs with scriptures scrawled across the bottom. Because, apparently, we're the biggest suckers on the planet.
My guess is that the Jesus doll will will sell like mad. People will buy it and tell their fellow church members to buy it, just to show their support to the Makers of the Jesus doll, and before you know it Walmart execs will be rubbing their chins for the next big idea. Bedding (Jesus winking), shower curtains (Jesus with his hands over his eyes), toothpaste (Jesus flashing those pearly whites), interior paint colours (red, brown, blue, yellow- you know the song. The Yellow Coward kitchen paint may not be a hot seller, but it's worth a try), t-shirts (oops, that's been done a million times), food lines (done), travel mugs and candy (done and done).
I don't know. I just want to know what Jesus fed his dog. I want Hugo to have glorious Christian fur and Christian dog breath. Give me a good Dog Bible Verse. Other than the ones that ate Jezebel (although, now that I think of it, that could work as a great name. Jezebits. Clean up the verse a little, make the dogs look cute with cartoon happy eyes, have them frollicking across the bag of food. Jezebel's body could be a minor background blur. Or, just take it out altogether, no one wants to see that, even if she was evil. See how easy? I just made a million dollars.)
Jesus the Cartoon, Jesus the Plastic, Jesus the Corny Lyrics. Jesus the wide grin and white skin, the greatest money maker of our time.
No wonder so many people are looking for the Real Jesus.
Angie
I get it. I get that we want good and wholesome toys for our kids. I'm not a Bratz fan, I'm not even a Barbie fan. Even with the New Smaller Boobs and the Career Aspirations. I'm not a big fan of mindless toys that play by themselves, just press the button and watch. So, I get the need for new and different toys on Walmart shelves. But I also get that if someone wants to make a buck, all they have to do is market something to We the Christian Right. Because we like Bible based stuff and mugs with scriptures scrawled across the bottom. Because, apparently, we're the biggest suckers on the planet.
My guess is that the Jesus doll will will sell like mad. People will buy it and tell their fellow church members to buy it, just to show their support to the Makers of the Jesus doll, and before you know it Walmart execs will be rubbing their chins for the next big idea. Bedding (Jesus winking), shower curtains (Jesus with his hands over his eyes), toothpaste (Jesus flashing those pearly whites), interior paint colours (red, brown, blue, yellow- you know the song. The Yellow Coward kitchen paint may not be a hot seller, but it's worth a try), t-shirts (oops, that's been done a million times), food lines (done), travel mugs and candy (done and done).
I don't know. I just want to know what Jesus fed his dog. I want Hugo to have glorious Christian fur and Christian dog breath. Give me a good Dog Bible Verse. Other than the ones that ate Jezebel (although, now that I think of it, that could work as a great name. Jezebits. Clean up the verse a little, make the dogs look cute with cartoon happy eyes, have them frollicking across the bag of food. Jezebel's body could be a minor background blur. Or, just take it out altogether, no one wants to see that, even if she was evil. See how easy? I just made a million dollars.)
Jesus the Cartoon, Jesus the Plastic, Jesus the Corny Lyrics. Jesus the wide grin and white skin, the greatest money maker of our time.
No wonder so many people are looking for the Real Jesus.
Angie
Thursday, August 02, 2007
Penner (not Fred)
Note: If you're not a hockey fan, this post will most likely read in Sudanese. Ok. You've been warned.
Well - Special K has done the unthinkable. He's poached a penner from Walt's team. I'm sure some of you (Mark, Steve, Nick, Todd, Tim, Benj) are awaiting my reaction. Await no longer.
If I'm honest, which I am as long as it insures my happiness, most likely I'd be critical of any manager if he pulled off what Lowe just did. For one, it does reek of desperation. Nobody wants to come to Deadmonton (sigh) so Lowe is forced to beg, plead and yes even poach players from any and all teams. Although I say forced, I don't believe his job is in jeopardy, as many critics have said, if anything, he's just trying to keep his team from it. Note: Not jeopardy the popular game show. What is my game show? Shut up Alex.
Personally, I think Lowe should be admired for having the cajungas to do the unpopular thing in order to help his team. Make no mistakes, by signing Penner, Edmonton is a better team. Is it a much better team? Only time will tell. This time next year, we'll either be hailing Lowe as a tremendous success or a fantastic failture. Still, I do realize that some of you think that Lowe should be fired or at least made fun of every day till Christmas. If you must, go ahead and throw the pies, just so you know - Kevin couldn't care less.
For one thing, he's done nothing wrong. Thanks to the new CBA, offer sheets are completely legitimate. There's nothing illegal or wrong about it. The problem everyone has with this is by doing it, Kevin has opened Pandora's box and as we all know, similar things are likely to follow. Kevin knows this but doesn't care. As he's said, he's not in the business to make bff's with the other managers, but rather defeat them come playoff time.
The other issue everyone has, especially Burke, is that Kevin has offered an inflated contract to an unproven player. 4.5 million/5yrs. He may be right, although as I've said, time will tell. While we're on this though, who is Brian to talk, he just signed Break your neck Bertuzzi to a 4 million/yr contract even though Todd's 31 and definitely on the downward slope. Plus, he's no where near the same player pre-Moore. Meanwhile, Penner is only 23 and just won a Stanley Cup. Plus he just scored 29 goals to Bertuzzi's 2. Yes Bert was hurt but still. . .
If you ask me, Burke's only hot because when Lowe called, all he had was a pair of 3's.
Would I be angry if someone did this to the Oilers? Yeah, probably. But lets cross that bridge when we come to it.
In the meantime, if its ok with you, I'm gonna go ahead and enjoy this knowing the Oilers are better off and Burke's temper will eventually subside - as it always does.
Besides, all that counts is next year's W's and that is much too far away to even think about.
Loving the hockey talk amidst the heat wave.
John
Well - Special K has done the unthinkable. He's poached a penner from Walt's team. I'm sure some of you (Mark, Steve, Nick, Todd, Tim, Benj) are awaiting my reaction. Await no longer.
If I'm honest, which I am as long as it insures my happiness, most likely I'd be critical of any manager if he pulled off what Lowe just did. For one, it does reek of desperation. Nobody wants to come to Deadmonton (sigh) so Lowe is forced to beg, plead and yes even poach players from any and all teams. Although I say forced, I don't believe his job is in jeopardy, as many critics have said, if anything, he's just trying to keep his team from it. Note: Not jeopardy the popular game show. What is my game show? Shut up Alex.
Personally, I think Lowe should be admired for having the cajungas to do the unpopular thing in order to help his team. Make no mistakes, by signing Penner, Edmonton is a better team. Is it a much better team? Only time will tell. This time next year, we'll either be hailing Lowe as a tremendous success or a fantastic failture. Still, I do realize that some of you think that Lowe should be fired or at least made fun of every day till Christmas. If you must, go ahead and throw the pies, just so you know - Kevin couldn't care less.
For one thing, he's done nothing wrong. Thanks to the new CBA, offer sheets are completely legitimate. There's nothing illegal or wrong about it. The problem everyone has with this is by doing it, Kevin has opened Pandora's box and as we all know, similar things are likely to follow. Kevin knows this but doesn't care. As he's said, he's not in the business to make bff's with the other managers, but rather defeat them come playoff time.
The other issue everyone has, especially Burke, is that Kevin has offered an inflated contract to an unproven player. 4.5 million/5yrs. He may be right, although as I've said, time will tell. While we're on this though, who is Brian to talk, he just signed Break your neck Bertuzzi to a 4 million/yr contract even though Todd's 31 and definitely on the downward slope. Plus, he's no where near the same player pre-Moore. Meanwhile, Penner is only 23 and just won a Stanley Cup. Plus he just scored 29 goals to Bertuzzi's 2. Yes Bert was hurt but still. . .
If you ask me, Burke's only hot because when Lowe called, all he had was a pair of 3's.
Would I be angry if someone did this to the Oilers? Yeah, probably. But lets cross that bridge when we come to it.
In the meantime, if its ok with you, I'm gonna go ahead and enjoy this knowing the Oilers are better off and Burke's temper will eventually subside - as it always does.
Besides, all that counts is next year's W's and that is much too far away to even think about.
Loving the hockey talk amidst the heat wave.
John
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