Honor And Harmony

For Emily, Wherever I May Find Her

2010-03-10T19:35:00.000-08:00

Spring break has brought me through our southeastern states of South Carolina and Georgia. As my blog title suggests, which is a song reference to Simon and Garfunkle, is in dedication to my dear friend Emily K. (name omitted to protect the innocent) at Clemson, who upon visiting actually admitted to periodically checking my blog for my random nothings. So this is for you, Emily, my faithful friend and fan. It's the least I can do for your years of dedication to my internets. Emily is a female, a student of sociology, 6 ft. 10 in. tall, speaks 16 languages (except english), and an avid hunter and trapper of exotic game.

On the way back from visiting the south, Savannah to be specific, I took a stop in her hometown, Charleston, SC. It's a charming place Emily, you should be proud. And for you, maybe, just maybe, I will be a more faithful blogger in tune with your faithful following so your efforts are not in vain. God bless you, Emily!

The World is Charged!

2010-01-26T18:09:00.000-08:00

I haven't blogged for nearly a year! Well, I'll be. Since I left off with Hopkins, my title will commence with Hopkins. I can't promise faithfully blogging, to all your dismay (by all, how many can that possibly be? Like 2, in a month?). Compelling numbers, considering I'm already rambling on about nothing, wasting time from your lives.

Anyways, new life here at the Theological College. Perhaps I'll blog about that. There were some good times I've blogged about. Perhaps if I blog some more, I will have more good times. Is that a logical conclusion? Did I blog because I had good times, or did I have good times because I was blogging? Did my blogging have any correlation whatsoever with the quality of my life? The world is charged! With the Grandeur of God.

What do YOU think, Pickles?

May's Magnificent Magnificat

2009-05-06T19:34:00.000-07:00

May is upon us, a month dear to my heart (for my birthday approaches).

Here is an image of May through the poetical works of Gerard Manley Hopkins (1844-89), a brilliant, complex, and humble poet, whose interesting life was displayed through his devotion to God. Another reason I found why May is dear to me, it is Mary's month. As the blessed mother of God's month, the justice I can do it is only found in Hopkins' work.

Enjoy a taste of spring! and May!

18. The May Magnificat

MAY is Mary’s month, and I
Muse at that and wonder why:
Her feasts follow reason,
Dated due to season—

Candlemas, Lady Day; 5
But the Lady Month, May,
Why fasten that upon her,
With a feasting in her honour?

Is it only its being brighter
Than the most are must delight her? 10
Is it opportunest
And flowers finds soonest?

Ask of her, the mighty mother:
Her reply puts this other
Question: What is Spring?— 15
Growth in every thing—

Flesh and fleece, fur and feather,
Grass and greenworld all together;
Star-eyed strawberry-breasted
Throstle above her nested 20

Cluster of bugle blue eggs thin
Forms and warms the life within;
And bird and blossom swell
In sod or sheath or shell.

All things rising, all things sizing 25
Mary sees, sympathising
With that world of good,
Nature’s motherhood.

Their magnifying of each its kind
With delight calls to mind 30
How she did in her stored
Magnify the Lord.

Well but there was more than this:
Spring’s universal bliss
Much, had much to say 35
To offering Mary May.

When drop-of-blood-and-foam-dapple
Bloom lights the orchard-apple
And thicket and thorp are merry
With silver-surfèd cherry 40

And azuring-over greybell makes
Wood banks and brakes wash wet like lakes
And magic cuckoocall
Caps, clears, and clinches all—

This ecstasy all through mothering earth 45
Tells Mary her mirth till Christ’s birth
To remember and exultation
In God who was her salvation.

Been a While

2009-04-26T19:17:00.000-07:00

It's been a while since my last post, hope all you loyal followers aren't too upset...

I could put something I consider interesting in this post, but since it's been a while, i think i'll just mention something uninteresting, to ease you into a new era of blogging, summer style.

It was really hot today, maybe you felt it too.
It's also rained a lot lately.

I have a rule at the dinner table that the dinner conversation can never be about the weather, or restaurants. I feel them to be superficial filler conversations. Perhaps I'll adopt that rule on my blog.

School's almost out. I AM out

Peace

St. Patty's Day and Finbar Furey

2009-03-16T18:09:00.000-07:00

March 17th we celebrate the Day of St. Patrick, when everyone feels a bit Irish. It's unfortunate that it's become synonymous with excessive drinking, aye sorry St. Patty, but still we carry on with that great irish spirit!

Last week, I had the opportunity to see a great irish music legend, Finbar Furey, here at CUA (I don't know many irish folk legends, but I trust their word he is one of the greats of it). It was special to see him, his music was great, and he was quite a musician. Here are some picture recaps

Have a Happy day with this familiar irish blessing

May the roads rise to meet you.
May the wind be at your back.
May the sun shine warm upon your face;
The rain fall soft upon your fields
And, until we meet again, May God hold you in the palm of His hand.

In a tribute to the loving wit and accent of the irish, here are some last amusing lines you can say throughout your St. Patrick's day.

May your blessings outnumber
The Shamrocks that grow
And may trouble avoid you
Wherever you go.

May you live as long as you want,
and never want as long as you live.

May you be half an hour in Heaven
Before the Devil knows you’re dead.

May God be with you and bless you.
May you see your children's children.
May you be poor in misfortune, rich in blessings.
May you know nothing but happiness.
From this day forward.

May the grass grow long
on the road to hell for want of use.

As you slide down the banisters of life
may the splinters never point the wrong way.

May your troubles be as few and as far apart
as my Grandmothers teeth.

May the roof above us never fall in,
and may we friends gathered below never fall out.

May the Lord keep you in His hand
and never close His fist too tight.

May your neighbors respect you,
Trouble neglect you, The angels protect you,
And heaven accept you.

One Step At a Time

2009-03-09T10:09:00.000-07:00

And guess who will be paying for all this...

WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama on Monday cleared the way for a significant increase in federal dollars for embryonic stem cell research and promised no scientific data will be "distorted or concealed to serve a political agenda."

Obama signed the executive order on the divisive stem cell issue and a memo addressing what he called scientific integrity before an East Room audience packed with scientists. He laced his remarks with several jabs at the way science was handled by former President George W. Bush.

"Promoting science isn't just about providing resources, it is also about protecting free and open inquiry," Obama said. "It is about letting scientists like those here today do their jobs, free from manipulation or coercion, and listening to what they tell us, even when it's inconvenient especially when it's inconvenient. It is about ensuring that scientific data is never distorted or concealed to serve a political agenda and that we make scientific decisions based on facts, not ideology."

He said his memorandum is meant to restore "scientific integrity to government decision-making." He called it the beginning of a process of ensuring his administration bases its decision on sound science; appoints scientific advisers based on their credentials, not their politics; and is honest about the science behind its decisions.

Fulfilling a campaign promise, Obama signed the order that on stem cell research that supporters believe could uncover cures for serious ailments from diabetes to paralysis. Proponents from former first lady Nancy Reagan to the late actor Christopher Reeve had pushed for ending the restrictions on research.

Obama paid tribute to Reeve, calling him a tireless advocate who was dedicated to raising awareness to the promise of research.

Obama's action reverses Bush's stem cell policy by undoing his 2001 directive that banned federal funding for research into stem lines created after Aug. 9, 2001.

The president said his administration would work aggressively to make up for the ground he said was lost due to Bush's decision, though it can't be known how much more federal money will be spent on the research until grants are applied for and issued.

"Medical miracles do not happen simply by accident," Obama declared.

Embryonic stem cells are master cells that can morph into any cell of the body. Scientists hope to harness them so they can create replacement tissues to treat a variety of diseases — such as new insulin-producing cells for diabetics, cells that could help those with Parkinson's disease or maybe even Alzheimer's, or new nerve connections to restore movement after spinal injury.

House Minority Leader John Boehner, R-Ohio, criticized Obama, saying in a statement that the president had "rolled back important protections for innocent life, further dividing our nation at a time when we need greater unity to tackle the challenges before us."

Bush limited the use of taxpayer money to only the 21 stem cell lines that had been produced before his decision. He argued he was defending human life because days-old embryos — although typically from fertility clinics and already destined for destruction — are destroyed to create the stem cell lines.

The Obama order reverses that without addressing a separate legislative ban, which precludes any federal money for the development of stem cell lines. The legislation, however, does not prevent funds for research on those lines created without federal funding.

Researchers say the newer lines created with private money during the period of the Bush ban are healthier and better suited to creating treatment for diseases.

Obama called his decision a "difficult and delicate balance," an understatement of the intense emotions generated on both sides of the long, contentious debate. He said he came down on the side of the majority of Americans who support increased federal funding for the research, both because strict oversight would prevent problems and because of the great and lifesaving potential it holds.

"Rather than furthering discovery, our government has forced what I believe is a false choice between sound science and moral values," Obama said. "In this case, I believe the two are not inconsistent. As a person of faith, I believe we are called to care for each other and work to ease human suffering."

Obama warned against overstating the eventual benefits of the research, but he said his administration "will vigorously support scientists who pursue this research," taking another slap at Bush in the process.

"I cannot guarantee that we will find the treatments and cures we seek. No president can promise that. But I can promise that we will seek them actively, responsibly, and with the urgency required to make up for lost ground," he said.

It's a matter of competitive advantage globally as well, the president argued.

"When government fails to make these investments, opportunities are missed. Promising avenues go unexplored," Obama said.

But the president was insistent that his order would not open the door to human cloning.

"We will develop strict guidelines, which we will rigorously enforce, because we cannot ever tolerate misuse or abuse," Obama said. "And we will ensure that our government never opens the door to the use of cloning for human reproduction. It is dangerous, profoundly wrong, and has no place in our society, or any society."

My Date With the Blessed Mother

2009-02-15T14:56:00.000-08:00

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It was looking like another Valentine's Day alone. Regardless of what people think of the day, it can always seem a bit low if there's no special person to spend it with. Not this year though, not like in the past. I remembered there's one female, in fact the perfect model of what a true woman should be, who was more than happy to accept my date proposal, our virgin Mother Mary! Ok, granted she had a husband, but I'm sure St. Joseph, her most chaste spouse, would totally be praying for us as we spent the afternoon. It was an honor to spend the day with our Lady, such a beautiful, pure, and Christ like model. The whole time we prayed together, she kept humbly pointing to Jesus. A date that pointed to Christ the whole time, sounds like a great outlook on how to date people!...Plus, no chance of getting stood up or it totally bombing.

We started off by spending time in Eucharistic adoration. Sitting, enjoying the presence of God in silence, really eased my nerves. We went to a familiar spot, Caldwell Chapel. A stained glass window with Mary and the Apostles sits behind the tabernacle, showing how even while intimately praying to Jesus, the whole of our Church on heaven and earth are praying together.

It was an alright, brisk, afternoon, so we decided to go for a walk. We walked past this statue, a reminder of our heavenly family, and couldn't resist a photo opportunity.

Though winter, and lacking the lush colorful plants and flowing fountains, we walked through her garden, Mary's Garden as it's called at CUA, and experienced our God in the beautiful outdoors.

It was chilly, so we headed into the Basilica to hit up some chapels. What better way to offer devotion to Jesus than the prayer Mary gave us, the rosary. With all the wonderful chapels to choose from, we prayed a decade of the rosary in 5 different chapels, a decade per chapel. Here's one chapel of Mary, promoter of Missions. We prayed that Jesus would bless and protect all the wonderful missions going on in the world.

And if it all wasn't enough already, when we got to the last decade, we went into the chapel of the Immaculate Conception and partook in a little miracle! Upon entering, there was one woman up front praying the rosary out loud in french, two women at the side praying it together in spanish, and me praying it in english. It was powerful to think that within a few feet of each other, we were praying the rosary together in 3 different languages.

And what's a Valentine's date without dinner? Ok, so I was cheap, we went to the dining hall, but anyways, it's the thought that counts.

What a day! There's no lack of grace in heaven, whether just to have a good time or to mend a broken heart. And I know she'll always be around any year to go again!

Wind

2009-02-12T17:15:00.001-08:00

We've been experiencing some wonderfully warm weather this past week. I'm glad Spring has sent us a postcard, but I'm sure it is to be soon on it's way. But along with the past few days of warmth, lately it's also been bringing some pretty gusty winds, they say getting up to about 50 mph.

There are a number of symbols associated with the holy Spirit we find throughout scripture. That of fire, like the disciples received on Pentecost, a dove, as when the Holy Spirit descended on Jesus in his river baptism, water, as that of being baptized in the spirit with water, but also the symbol of wind. I think out of all the symbols, wind gets talked about the least. And that even makes sense, because we can't even see it! But when speaking of the holy Spirit, that's sort of the point; we can't see it. Like the wind, we can't "see" the holy Spirit. But, we know it's there, because we see it's effects. No person would deny that wind exists, we see it in the trees, ocean waves, hair, almost every day. Sometimes it makes itself known a little more obviously like today. In this same sort of way, the holy Spirit is constantly working, moving in our lives, even though we don't see it. Sometimes it's effects in our lives are really obvious, like a really windy day. In these times it's easier to believe even, we feel better, like our prayers are being answered. But then we get days when everything seems to be stagnant in our lives, nothing is going right. We can't feel the spirit, like a muggy, windless day.

We don't deny that wind exists on a still day. It would be like denying air exists, or that we felt wind a week ago. So even if we don't deny the Spirit exists, is it still working? Obviously wind isn't "working" when it's not windy outside. A sailor in the middle of the ocean would certainly hope for wind to "work" at the opportune time. The obvious answer is yes, the Spirit is working, but what compels one to say that, other than wishful thinking. For one, it seems that in posing this question, if the Spirit is working, we are assuming that we know how the Spirit even works. What is our judgment about what the Spirit should be doing at that point in time? I'm sure we all have our speculations what God should be doing for us. It may even be a good and noble cause. Ahh how absorbed in the moment people can get. We know there is a reason for everything that comes to pass, but sometimes, usually, it just takes time for the true meaning to be revealed in our lives. After all, at the heart of the holy Spirit, and our Triune God, there dwells the deepest of mysteries.

Wind has the ability to leave a poor boatsman stranded in the open sea, and the power to tear apart houses and towns. We see the effects, so how is it affecting us these days?

MONSTER JAM

2009-02-08T16:55:00.000-08:00

Are YOU ready for Monster Jam? The meanest MONSTER trucks in the whole world! They crush EVERYTHING in sight! January 23 at the Verizon Center, are YOU ready?

All the toughest monster trucks in the whole world were there, or like 7 of them. First, there came out

The BROKER!

He was OK, but not the Best...

But then came
SCREAMIN' DEMON!

But he wasn't the best, but he crushed stuff still

But one of the best came then
Superman!!!!

Superman was the FIRST to qualify for this years Monster Jam NGK Spark Plugs World Finals in Las Vegas March 27-28. Are you going???

But FINALLY, the REAL best truck was there

GRAVEDIGGER!!!

From Kitty Hawk, NC, Grave Digger is a total legend. He's the most famous monster truck in the world. He's won three world championships!

I hope YOU are planning to go see Monster Jam at the Verizon Center January 23!!! Tickets are only $10, plus they have a new video game coming out

March For Life

2009-02-05T15:23:00.000-08:00

Sorry for the delay (I say that like I'm apologizing to throngs of loyal webloggers), but here indeed are the pictures from this years March for Life. I got to enjoy it with the dear friends from providence, RI. We turned the Verizon center into a giant holy house of worship, which showed the abundant life in the Church, and then had a great time on the march. The following day in the Verizon Center, I watched Monster Trucks destroy stuff on the same ground we celebrated communion. Gravedigger!!

Was it successful? Well...we have hope. It's visible effect upon Washington, not good, still no changes in legislation. Though year after year, we will not forget. This is OUR hope for change. Pro-lifers have the audacity to hope. The fundamental issue is that killing human beings is wrong. If we acknowledge that human life begins at conception, then abortion is killing a human being. There is no other "choice" in these circumstances. Let's be a country that loves our children, not only the ones we want to love.

Here's some pics...

What a blessing to have so many priests and religious join us from around the U.S. There had to be 300-400 priest alone, not counting the 30ish bishops. It was a powerful testimony to the commitment to our faith, a picture of much alive and loving Church.

Ok, I took some pictures off the jumbo-tron, I'll admit to that.

Matt Maher gets the crowd psyched

I think this is Fr. Nagim, a priest from Providence where Mark and Teddy live, I snapped a pic

And the bishops come...

The altar

Our good friends of the Little Brothers of St. Francis. I hope they don't mind being exposed on my blog

I don't know these people

Taking it to the streets

Some familiar faces, in fact they have familiar expressions on their faces

Some powerful looking clydesdales, keepin us safe.

Sporting the message

Some family visitors

"Hey man, did you have fun at the March for Life?" "Yea totally! It was a blast! Can't wait to do it again!" "Right on! Nice pics Evan!"

Little Brothers of St. Francis

2009-01-29T19:35:00.000-08:00

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At the March for Life this past week (which I will post on soon, but my camera cord is at home), we had the wonderful blessing of becoming friends with some really awesome religious brothers for Boston, from a community called the Little Brothers of St. Francis. We originally got acquainted when we had a very interesting metro experience with them. They live and serve in the inner city of Boston, in a home together, living a contemplative community life. The brothers follow the tradition of St. Francis, by becoming totally poor so that they too can genuinely serve the totally poor. Though only seven brothers, a very small community, their loving personalities and service to the gospel give greater testimony to the great way they are serving God. Through communal prayer and adoration, direct befriending of the poor and destitute, they truly inhabit the virtuous statement of St. Francis that we commonly hear:

Preach the gospel at all times, use words if necessary

One does not need verbal barrages of the truth to show the light of Christ, often it simply takes a kind gesture, expecting nothing in return. We must be the light, but we must let God be the guide home.

I mention them just to give them kudos, though I'm sure they don't need them. Pray for their mission, and all those other men and women religious serving as brothers, nuns, or monks. God does not measure our actions by the outcome but by the intention with which we do them.

Here's a neat video you should watch about them

Ridiculous and Sublime - trailer from Maureen Cotton on Vimeo.

Contra dances stupid? Au Contraire!

2009-01-26T16:25:00.000-08:00

What exactly is contra dancing? Why should I do it? I know some people reading this might already be acquainted with this superb dance form, for others, up to this point you have been missing out.

A Brief History

Around the 17th century, country dances served as a popular form of entertainment for those in England. The type of dance started to achieve some popularity in France, where their traditional court dances began to assimilate with the English dance steps. The French name "Contra-danse" began to be used, that is "contrary dance." This french interpretation of the old English custom is what soon moved to the United States, where today, it flourishes among a country like setting. It stays rooted in it's culture, and you do feel transformed as you partake in this exciting form of american dance.

What Does It Look Like? How Do I Do It?

Well settle down, don't get too carried away. Contra dances consist of two long lines of dancers who dance oppositely one another. Hence you may be familiar with the term "line dance." There can be as many rows of two spread along the floor as space permits, but is essentially the ones in your row you will be dancing with. Here's a little picture up till now.

So I'm there, what do I do first? Well for all those beginners, you're usually in luck. Most places, before a dance they do a beginners session so you can get a little grasp of the basics before attempting your first dance. Know this, it is challenging at first, and it takes a while to really get in a rhythm once the music starts playing full speed. So after the beginner session...

Pick a partner! Of the opposite gender, this is a dance for couples. It is customary (and indeed necessary) for the male to ask the female to dance, even if you don't know them. Weird... Men usually wear comfortable jeans and shoes, women like to wear a long skirt, so that when they spin it poofs out a bit (like one of those flying cars at an amusement park)

So you walk with your partner and get into line with everyone else. There are a few beginning formations you need to get into so the dance will work. You will either start out with all the guys in line facing opposite their partners who are in their line. This is called Proper formation. http://www.blogger.com/post-create.g?blogID=33076543

L1 L2 L3 L4 L5
G1 G2 G3 G4 G5

Another formation is called improper formation, where you stand opposite your partner, buy the person of the opposite gender of the couple next to you stands next to you. It looks like this.

L1 G2 L3 G4
G1 L2 G3 L4

The final one is called Becket formation, just look at it...

L1 G1
G2 L1

Ok that was way to confusing at first. Anyways, you get into formation.

There is one person called "The Caller," this is important, and as the dance progresses, he is standing up from (not dancing) and calling out the dance steps you are to do. So it's important to listen to the person throughout the dance. He calls out the series of dance moves, and though it's a little confusing at first, it actually runs in a repeating pattern, so it starts, you proceed through some steps, then end right back where you began, BUT, you and your partner have shifted, so you restart the dance except with new people! You and your partner are always doing the dance with the others in the line. Sometimes this causes problems, because if an inexperienced couple is dancing and messes up, it messes up the others in line, and sometimes more experienced dancers get irritated.

The more experienced you get, the more you can spice up the dance, making it more fun and challenging!

That's about it for the dance, it's quick moving and exhilarating once it's gettin' hot! By the way, it's usually pretty classy, it's not like the disgusting fake night club dancing. Here you actually get your money's worth of the door charge.

Evan, I'm so psyched now! Where can I go to one of these things?

Well you are in luck! I'm speaking to my fellow Marylanders here, and luckily we have plenty of opportunities for a rip roaring contra time! There happens to be one in Frederick! It meets on the 4th Saturday of every month, isn't that convenient! Here's a link!

http://www.contradancers.com/mmfac/index.htm

Is that it? That's only once a month. Nooo, here's another one in Baltimore! They meet every Wednesday night!

http://www.bfms.org/squarecontra.php

I'm not satisfied Evan, where is more? Glad you asked, Evan, because luckily every Friday night there is a dance in Glen Echo Park in Washington Dc! I heard it's a real hoppin' one too!

http://www.fridaynightdance.org/

Wow man, I'm overwhelmed, I can't wait! I hope you've been thoroughly enlightened about the wonderful tradition of Contra Dancing. For your amusement, here's a video of a real one!

New Year...Hey Oh!

2009-01-11T18:05:00.000-08:00

Surely I, the Lord, do not change, nor do you cease to be sons of Jacob...Then you will again see the distinction between the just and the wicked; Between him who serves God and him who does not serve him...But for you who fear my name, there will arise the sun of justice with it's healing rays...

Malachi 3:6,18,20

Welcome to 2009, a time for change, that's for sure, and I'm sure we all have our own resolutions to go along with it. I have my own resolutions, I hope you have your own, even if the whole resolution thing can seem so secularized and meaningless; perhaps we can all bring back the genuine meaningfulness. As policies will change, laws, the weather, Malachi reminds us the our God never changes; he was, is, and forever will be.
Before we make any resolutions, we should approach the Lord in prayer and ask him for guidance so we can see the greatest need in our lives, and gather the strength to do battle against our sin and downfalls. God will provide abundant strength and mercy for us to overcome the evil one; the difficulty is taking the first humble step.

2008 was a year I shall always remember, ups and downs, took me around the world and country, alas here I am, still living. That's quite a gift, and I thank God for every struggle, victory, answered and unanswered prayer. If 2009 is anything at all like 2008, then all I can conclude is that I'm not sure where I shall be tomorrow morning. But I certainly like a good mystery. Here's just a glimpse of 2008 in picture.

Cheers

The Finals Countdown

2008-12-09T09:43:00.000-08:00

In case you didn't pick up the subtlety, my title was referring to that 80's song. That little line along with the synthesizer riff has been playing in my mind the past few days, as finals start picking up. Things are looking alright, I've had two already today, 2 more tomorrow, then one more Thursday. One of them today I kicked butt, the other was a bit tough, we'll see.

I had quite a scary near calamitous experience last evening. Driving back from Baltimore my car broke down when driving on 95 in rush hour traffic. Talk about literally the worst place at the worst time. I could feel the engine turning up something bad, then suddenly my accelerator pedal would no longer take me anywhere. I somehow managed to get over a couple lanes, while decreasing speed, and amidst many angry people behind me, I finally (thank the good Lord) rolled off the highway at about 2 mph. I was directly to the right of that big smokestack that says BALTIMORE on it, to give you my exact position. I then sat on the side of the road for about 2 hours waiting for help to arrive, hoping dearly this would not be my end sitting helpless in the car.
Long story short, everything turned out alright, obviously, and I got back to school later than I had hoped for, in time for my final at 8 am. Wowee!

I'm psyched yo for finals to be finally finished. Lookin' forward to a nice and busy Christmas break.

Weekend one at the Gaver tree farm is done. Man, it's a hollerin' blast working there. It's amazing how even working there 3 hours and my knowledge about Christmas trees is increased tenfold. I'm kinda a seasoned employee, I know the whereabouts. I get to act like a farmer for a while, work hard at the land in the cold (and Sunday was especially cold and windy), but it gives you that rough and tough manly feeling, know what I mean ladies? I really enjoy it, carrying trees all day, using the big farm equipment, driving golf carts, cutting down trees for helpless people, all in a day's work. Plus, I've never had a real steady job, so I wouldn't know any different.

I've decided not to buy anyone Christmas presents this year. Jk, I'm just going to buy everyone t-shirts with my face on it.

Well done Christmas lights impress me, and put me in a good mood. Also people who enjoy the Christmas season. Let's let Jesus' light shine through us all, eh?

Freedom of Choice Act

2008-12-01T11:24:00.000-08:00

I'm not a big fan of political blogs, but in the words of Aristotle, "man is by nature a political animal," and I am in fact a man. But the fact is, abortion is not merely a political issue, it is a fundamental moral issue. Obama says it is a fundamental right to allow abortion, whereas our human nature would tell us that we shouldn't kill our children. I am not merely speaking politically when I say do not support the Freedom of Choice Act (FOCA). Obama plans to sign it into law, below is a section from the actual bill, and you should read the rest of it as well (It's not some edited "crazy" copy either). Pray for our nation and the unborn, and don't simple agree with life, defend life.

SEC. 4. INTERFERENCE WITH REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH PROHIBITED.

(a) Statement of Policy- It is the policy of the United States that every woman has the fundamental right to choose to bear a child, to terminate a pregnancy prior to fetal viability, or to terminate a pregnancy after fetal viability when necessary to protect the life or health of the woman.
(b) Prohibition of Interference- A government may not--
(1) deny or interfere with a woman's right to choose--
(A) to bear a child;
(B) to terminate a pregnancy prior to viability; or
(C) to terminate a pregnancy after viability where termination is necessary to protect the life or health of the woman; or
(2) discriminate against the exercise of the rights set forth in paragraph (1) in the regulation or provision of benefits, facilities, services, or information.
(c) Civil Action- An individual aggrieved by a violation of this section may obtain appropriate relief (including relief against a government) in a civil action.

SEC. 5. SEVERABILITY.

If any provision of this Act, or the application of such provision to any person or circumstance, is held to be unconstitutional, the remainder of this Act, or the application of such provision to persons or circumstances other than those as to which the provision is held to be unconstitutional, shall not be affected thereby.

SEC. 6. RETROACTIVE EFFECT.

This Act applies to every Federal, State, and local statute, ordinance, regulation, administrative order, decision, policy, practice, or other action enacted, adopted, or implemented before, on, or after the date of enactment of this Act.

See full article at http://www.govtrack.us/congress/billtext.xpd?bill=s110-1173

Who's in Charge?

2008-11-23T10:48:00.000-08:00

The year has ended, the Church year I mean. Advent is the beginning of the Church's new yearly cycle, and the last Sunday of Ordinary time is Celebrated by the solemnity of Christ the King.

So looking back on this year, and looking forward to the advent season, it's probably time for a spiritual overhaul. Looking to Christ as our King really puts things in perspective, because our relationship with God can truly lose sight of who is in charge of our life.

It's so almost natural for us to assume that we know what is best for ourselves. At the same time we know, at least within ourselves, that so many times, we are wrong. There is only one person who is right all the time, and that of course is God.

Did that blow your mind? I didn't think so. I don't think most of us have difficulty knowing, at least intellectually, that God is always right and perfect. The important part is truly living that.

It's very easy to pray to an all knowing, perfect, and gracious God when we are praying for something we want. When we are in need, want something to happen, we WANT to believe that God is all knowing, and subconsciously we believe that whatever we want, God must want for us too.
But when it's God's turn, and he gives us a command, or places something difficult on OUR heart, how quickly do we turn back to ourselves again. We question and doubt, saying, are you sure that's really what you want me to do? Could you rethink that a bit? All of a sudden God isn't so all knowing and right.

It never fails, it's in those moments where life changing decisions hang in the balance when our wants begin to collide with God's plans. We have not surrendered to His will for us. We don't want to place our biggest life decisions up to faith, we want to do it ourselves, because we think we know. But once again, we are wrong. And if it gets to that decisive moment, and we are not prepared to surrender to God, and we are still holding onto those insecurities, then good luck, bring an umbrella!

So we just leave everything up to blind faith? Well yes and no. It takes faith, but that faith can have eyes too. To what does it look?

"And the one who searches hearts knows what is the intention of the Spirit, because it intercedes for holy ones according to God's will"

Romans 8:27

If we are going to pray for God's will to guide us, we need to prepare ourselves, mind, body, and soul. We need to "search hearts" because only when our prayers look from pure hearts will we know what we should even be praying for. And we will hear the Spirit, have no doubt about that! The hard part is trusting! Perhaps God is speaking to us about a certain bad habit we need to nix once and for all, or he is guiding us to a new place, job, or vocation. Whatever it is, it will be transforming, because if we are to follow God's call, it requires us to become new people. We have to have the courage to leave all else behind us to pursue God's call, no hesitations.

"No one who sets a hand to the plow and looks to what was left behind is fit for the kingdom of God"

Luke 9:62

What about all my friends, or all those "good times"? People around me think I'm crazy.

"Let the dead bury their dead. But you, go and proclaim the Kingdom of God"

Luke 9:60

But hey, bring em' along!

Prepare you conscience to pray; our prayer life reflects our actions. Have you ever prayed for something, and later realized it was totally against the very nature of God? It's like praying: "God, please let me become successful and have a lot of money one day" or "God, if you really love me, you will make this person like me and go out with me"

God is not going to bless prayers made out of a conceited heart. That is why our hearts must be formed according to his Word. We need to trust God knows just what we need, and we need to be prepared to surrender to his will when it comes our way.

Especially as we prepare our hearts for the advent season, let's think again, who is in charge? Is Christ really king for me? Christ's deepest desires for us should also be our deepest desires for ourselves, but maybe we just need to reconsider what we really hold to be our deepest desires.

Christ is King!

A Song of Love

2008-11-14T18:38:00.000-08:00

Set me as a seal on your heart,
as a seal on your arm;
For stern as death is love,
relentless as the nether world is devotion;
its flames are a blazing fire.
Deep waters cannot quench love,
nor floods sweep it away.
Were one to offer all he owns to purchase love,
he would be roundly mocked

Song of Songs 8:6-7

In the life of St. Thomas Aquinas (1225-1274), his volumes of philosophical and theological writings, most notably his Summa Theologica and Contra Gentiles, have been an integral part in the development and defense of our Christian faith. His accomplishments and effects upon our systematic and spiritual understanding of theology is truly hard to fathom when one begins to read.
However, towards the end of his life, commenting on all he had written, he reflected "All my work is straw," realizing that his whole life with written works of so much mental depth, he had not even begun to comprehend God's mystery.

His last work ever was a commentary on the Song of Songs. The following is not from it whatsoever though

The Old Testament writing Song of Songs has quite a reputation, disputed among scholars about the true meaning of the text. But if one thing is true, it is that it's poetry on love has beautiful and real meaning that can be brought into our lives.

The Song of Songs brings to life the divine love that intimately binds us with God. It is truly a love letter from God. It describes a love that is perfect, which would be one the involves the eros, ethos, and agape love. Sometimes the description of the eros love (erotic, as in the sexual love between man and woman) can be seen as a bit risque, but that is only when we fail to recognize that eros love is indeed a vital part of our connection with God.

And it's so easy for us, even Christians, to read a text like this that describes two lovers and their romping about in gardens (7:12-13), as risque. Culture has watered down sex to be like exercise, or a "part of a healthy lifestyle." Or it's often expected of guys and girls, even FRIENDS often encourage, to "hook up" (that vague and dangerous word again) and to go through multiple partners, even if they say it's "love." In Deus Caritas Est (God is Love) encyclical by Pope Benedict (which you SHOULD read if you want to be floored about love), he speaks with a reality about eros. He relates modern society now to a sea of eros, basically a culture overrun by it crashing on top of us, and agape is like a ping pong ball basically being tossed around. And then when we see true eros love in scripture, it can lose it's beauty.

But if we do separate all that crap from our readings of the Song of Songs, it begins to come alive. In every heart, God has placed in us a desire of eros love. Our body is a temple, read 1 Corinthians 3 and 6 again, a temple for the spirit. God made our temple beautiful, in fact in His own image! And intended it to be kept beautiful. Song of Songs describes the two lovers in a union that is at once a beautiful connection between their bodies "Let him kiss me with kisses of his mouth! More delightful is your love than wine!" but at the exact same time is a holy and sacred respect of the other. It is a relationship that is blessed by God.

And there is the dual meaning of Song of Songs, because it is not only a love that can be described as the two very human lovers, but at the same time it can be seen as the love between us and God.

And here lies the truth of Love (or so I think...)

Our love between each other should be able to be seen as the love between us and God. If we can look at our relationship of love between two people, we should be able to show how the relationship is at THE SAME TIME a relationship of love between us and God. Our love toward another person, should also be love to God. That's true love

And this isn't even some mystical and theoretical idea of love, it's something totally practical. Whether man and wife, boyfriend or girlfriend, friend and friend, family members, us and strangers?, we can maybe apply a little test, which is this:

How is the love I'm showing to this other person, loving God as well?

If the answer is "it's not" then that relationship either needs to end, or be seriously changed. Going back to eros love, it can be more difficult to ask how that love, the sexual love, is loving God. Our eros loves God because we are not animals, however sometimes we act like it, as in "hooking up." But God gives a special grace to us within the sexual bond of people, one that is only complete, and truly TRUE when it is withing the bonds of marriage. Thank God for love! for eros! for marriage!

I don't want to seem insensitive when I refer to "hooking up", they are not animals. But it destroys the heart, and the temple of our body, when our body turns to OURS instead of GODS. Let us all pray for God's healing love to be with them, and all our own failings. Another all to infrequently brought up topic (which I won't go into much) I passed over when I mentioned our eros love between us and strangers? It is the way we look at each person with dignity, not out of lust. Particularly the tragic and deadly problem of pornography, the ultimate display of disrespect to those around us. Let's pray for our world.

Within the sea of eros, the words from the verse above shine above all else "Deep waters cannot quench love, nor floods sweep it away", We should find hope in this. No matter how powerful the seas of an infatuated culture with the human body, true love quenches our deepest desires, and no matter how strongly we are attacked by things, if our love is true, the strongest flood will not wash it away.

That's how powerful God's love is, and we can have it

Hark! my lover-here he comes
springing across the mountains,
leaping across the hills.
My lover is like a gazelle
or a young stag.
Here he stands behind our wall,
gazing through the windows,
peering through the lattices.
My lover speaks; he says to me,
"Arise, my beloved, my beautiful one,
and come!
"For see, the winter is past,
the rains are over and gone.
The flowers appear on the earth,
the time of pruning the vines has come,
and the song of the dove is heard in our land.
The fig tree puts forth its figs,
and the vines, in bloom, give forth fragrance.
Arise, my beloved, my beautiful one,
and come!
"O my dove in the clefts of the rock,
in the secret recesses of the cliff,
Let me see you,
let me hear your voice,
For your voice is sweet,
and you are lovely."

Song of Songs 2:8-14

Our New Family Member

2008-11-05T11:34:00.000-08:00

The 44th president of the United States, may God guide his presidency! Let's pray for our country's new frontier, for good and moral decisions that respect life, and for a country that embraces truth as we head into the uncertain future

Who's Ready To Vote???

2008-11-03T18:22:00.000-08:00

It better be you!! Who's it gonna be?? I don't know!!!

Giving Up

2008-11-01T14:05:00.000-07:00

I think it's a normal part of everyone's journey to sometimes feel like giving up. At points it feels like it's not worth it to fight "the good fight," and we contemplate just giving in. It's easy to be normal, to conform. It's easy to simply follow the crowd. But it's hard to say no, to go against the grain and try to live differently. Everything is so quick now, that I think our pray lives have adapted the same attitudes. Though we should pray with the confidence that God hears our prayers and will answer them, we always want them now. Who really wants a prayer answered later rather than the exact moment we want it? So when we pray, and nothing seems to change, even day after day, after month, after year, the thought of giving up, seems a little more like a possibility. And so starts the dangerous turn into the life of mediocrity.

I think if we look deeper into any person, there's a desire to live for more. I can't imagine any person who is content with living their whole life unfulfilled. I think most people want the challenge. But If everyone really lived this, wouldn't the "normal" be "the good fight?" So why is it, that we struggle to be different?

Because as soon as we tell ourselves "I'm ready for change," we have to step outside, face the same people, see the same tv shows, listen to the same music... and as much as we can try and distance ourselves from these things, the truth is they will never go away. We may truly desire to change some ways in us, but the world is not going to stop for us. The world doesn't wait till we are strong enough to resist it before it comes knocking. When we make a commitment to change, we can't expect them to go away, instead we must expect ourselves to overcome.

So as soon as we tell ourselves, I'm going to make this lifestyle change, we immediately see the problem, and we give up. We defeat ourselves by convincing ourselves we are not good enough, not strong enough, or we are not ready yet. But the truth is we are ready, and we are inherently good enough, and we are called to fight the good fight.

The first step is always the hardest, because it's the newest and we have the least idea of how to fight back the temptation. When you gather the courage to tell a friend "no" to a night out partying, you can immediately be ridiculed as being prude, scared, or just naive. It's the first time that's the hardest, because when you successfully say no the first time, the second time, it's not quite as hard, because you know it's going to be alright. It took me awhile to understand this. I've never had a problem saying no to going out drinking for example, it's usually pretty easy for me. But I could never understand how someone who has never really said no before, could say it, and it be hard. I admit to have been very judgmental to this, but it shows the struggle that it is.

But if we are going to overcome whatever it is (sorry to be vague about "change", but it could be anything), we need to look to the model that never gave up in persecution. We look to Jesus and the cross, we pray to him for our strength, because without THAT kind of courage we will not overcome our fears.

I'd like to share a quote from President James Garfield that says

The truth will set you free, but first it will make you miserable

If we want to change, to become better, and to be set free from our burdens, giving up cannot be an option. We can neither defeat ourselves before we begin by never gathering up the courage to say no (or yes to a positive thing), or allow ourselves to just crap out after what seems like a lifetime of unanswered prayers. Know that it will be hard, like Pres Garf says, it may even make us miserable and we may be dying to do "that thing," but in the end...

Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.

-James 1:2-5

Happy Halloween, Be Responsible!

2008-10-30T15:06:00.001-07:00

Falling Into Fall!

2008-10-20T18:10:00.000-07:00

I know that is a dorky title, but, hey.

Autumn has arrived! How do I know, despite the official calendar season that began September 22? I feel the split between fall and spring is a decisive moment, it happens overnight. As some people know, I have a tradition where I officially stop wearing shorts, and officially only wear long pants (with exceptions). That day came this weekend, and the day was October 19. Ok, so I know October 18 is a little late to still be calling it summer, but I hold onto those fleeting moments.

But I am excited for the autumn, it conveys such wondrous feelings! The crunch of leaves, changing colors, the distinct scent in the cold air, apple cider, firewood, all the simple pleasures. I hope I am putting you in the autumn mood.

This weekend was quite the welcome to the new season. Friday night I was late for a gig at the Pour House. I was coming straight from tutoring in Southeast DC, and hit tons of traffic. Then I attempted to make a quick zip to the show, alas, Murphy's Law. I knew I was late, and it was one of those moments when your mind is in fast forward but the world around you is in slow motion. I had to pray to chillax, and it just made me realize how deeply God knows me, because only He know the EXACT way to test my faith, and probably keep me safe. Anyways, I got there, to a sea of beautiful faces, and it made everything warm again. The Pour House radiated fall goodness, glimmering lights, festive colors, some music. Good times.

Sunday Night, back to the Pour House. Judd and Maggie put on a special show, and it was quite the special event. They always sound great, but that night they sounded superb. They were back with the whole band, which always makes it better, because it just adds that bit. It was the first time we could hear their new CD live, and it gave such a new dimension to listening to it now. They pulled back tons of old songs too, like ones I've never seen them play live, like After Tonight(upon my request), Drizzle, and other career spanning superhits. They were looking bright as ever and it sounded fantastic. I enjoyed a pumpkin spiced chai trying to get into the fall mood. Those are some of those moments you cherish, and recollect on a muggy summer day. In addition, Kaitlin and I bought gas for $2.75!

I got my tiny pumpkin and a couple funky gourds for my dorm room, and I secured a small winter job! Just like in my Senior year, I will be working at the Gaver Tree Farm, right near my house on Detrick Rd. for two weekends this winter. So be sure to buy your Christmas tree from Gaver Tree Farm all day on the weekends of December 6-7 and 13-14. I loved that job, because I can release my inner farmer and do some manual labor. I shake the trees, use the bailer equipment, drive around on golf carts and pick up people and trees, and much more. All day outside with the scent of Christmas trees and farm animals, and I get paid for it!

So I hope you are as optimistic about the fall as I am, I realized I really enjoy every season, each one has something to offer. For now, I will live autumn to the max, just like Skippy!

Northern Lights

2008-10-14T11:37:00.000-07:00

I just returned from a trip to Providence, RI, where a long overdue reconnection with some best pals occurred, Teddy and Mark, up at the College Seminary at Providence College. I'll venture to explain what I mean.

I woke up early Saturday morning, where I was up before the sun. I hit the open road by 5 am, just me, the trusty ol' Ford Contour, whose fragile appearance has not failed me yet, a choc full ipod shuffle, and a couple bananas. The soundtrack always defines a good trip though, and there is truly an art to making a good playlist. It's always best to have a copilot, but sometimes a long solo drive does a heart good, a kind of soul therapy. It was a lovely morning, as I got to see the sun gradually rise through the nice landscapes of northern Maryland. There are some times when I contemplate becoming a trucker, and just driving around for a living. I usually have different opinions about 6 hours in.

It's easy to tell you have just arrived into Pennsylvania because the roads turn to crap. I listened to a lot of NPR, as I have always liked Saturday NPR because it has weird yet interesting programs, such as Car Talk, and Wait Wait Don't Tell Me. I also knew when I entered New Jersey, because once again the roads turned to crap (again) but it also smelled like crap (that was mean, but in many cases true). I stopped at a coffeeshop, got an "autumnal" (credit Teddy) pumpkin coffee, and read some scripture. I crossed the vast expanse of the Tapan Zee Bridge in New York, passed through New Haven, CN, the home of Yale University. On the trip back I stopped and went to the bathroom at Yale University, just to say I did (no offense).

After roughly an 8 hour trip, I got out of the car at approximately 1:30 pm at Our Lady of Providence Seminary to the welcoming embrace of Mark, Teddy, and some of the other guys. It had been about 2 months since we last saw each other, but no time passes in the mind. A grand weekend ensued.

We got lunch, released some musical adrenalin in the music room, settled in my things, met many glorious new faces, and made myself at home for the weekend.

That evening, we decided to go to downtown Providence, a classy town, for a grand event called Waterfire. We said Evening Prayer from the liturgy, and drove into the bustling town. The streets were packed, organized chaos. We got subway from a many story mall and walked amidst the throngs of people in the street. Thousands upon thousands of people gathered for the event, Waterfire, where they light many fires across the rivers in downtown Providence, beneath the high rises, where people do festival things. There is wonderful music that plays in the night, and the rows of fire make it a quite magical evening. It also commemorated Breat Cancer Awareness, which made the event ultra big. What a great weekend for me to pick to go!
We returned that evening, bought some ice cream, and watched Braveheart with all the men from Seminary who were there.

Sunday we arose after a good sleep, got a good breakfast, and communed and talked for a good time. We departed to discover treasures of Providence, which took us on a trip to Brown university. We wandered the lovely town, and settled in a park overlooking all Providence from the large hill where Brown in set. We attended the 10:30 pm mass at Providence College, and left the night to be.

Sunday morning we partook in the holy mass, ventured back into Providence for a bit, and then it was time for me to leave!

I hit the long road home, which ended up not being such an enjoyable and smooth ride, but here am I. Was it worth the trip? Yea man, I'd drive all day to be with good friends.

Religulous

2008-09-30T20:29:00.000-07:00

Getting a comedian to speak with credit on religion is like getting a clown to perform surgery on you. In case you haven't heard the latest "buzz" going around, Bill Maher, a comedian/political and religion comedy commentator, is coming out with a documentary in theaters entitled "Religulous." The documentary is aimed at ridiculing religion (hence religion + ridiculous= religulous).

First, I think it must be said that as committed Christians, whom Bill Maher makes all the effort to embarass, we should not be alarmed and freak out. It's what Maher wants, to try and prove his point. It is my hypothesis that in a few months after the movies release it will fade off into nowhere, and have no effect whatsoever on culture as a whole.

The movie has it's effect in the fact that it targets religious fanatics, those people who witness their own faiths in misguided or dangerous ways. He targets the insane and depicts it as the norm, and makes "rational" belief in a God something superstitious and ancient.

Maher points out "certain" questions as ones of particular interest, or ridicule. And might I say, they are quite serious questions, the big ones; why is there evil in the world, why doesn't God simply defeat the devil, why did God speak through prophets, why doesn't God announce the true religion, the virgin birth, modern scientific and archaeological issues surrounding sacred scripture etc...

Maher may have raised valid questions, and important ones to know at that! But as Maher may not realize, these questions have been asked, and ANSWERED, for the past 2000 years. Perhaps Maher has not kept up to date with the growth of western culture and philosophy, but what he asks is nothing new. The answer to questions such as these are found through the most scholastic, faithful, and credible sources throughout our history. If Maher ever finds himself reading my blog, may I suggest some further readings which I believe will suffice for it's purpose: Augustine, Aquinas, Anselm, Pope John Paul II, Cardinal Ratzinger (Pope Benedict XI)...not even scratching the surface. You can't sum up these questions in one blog, but anyone who wants to tackle the questions, theres an intelligent way besides making a documentary. Hit the books instead.

In fact archaeology supports nearly every claim historically in the bible, as well as pure sociological investigation. But what may come as surprise to skeptics, is that for Christians, THE BIBLE IS NOT A SCIENCE TEXTBOOK. It's true, they didn't know everything! But they didn't need to! They knew all they had to, and that was not the message anyways. The Bible is about the plan of Salvation revealed through the prophets in the Old Testament, and the fulfillment of the plan through His only son Jesus in the New Testament. The Bible is about a message, what should happen in our lives.

And paradoxically, the one thing he attempts to ridicule the most, is the answer to all his questions, Faith. It simply takes faith, and ridicule that if you may, you cannot deny it. It's the only thing that allows something so over our heads in comprehension, to be real in our lives. Without faith, it is impossible to believe in it all, because it simply is too unbelievable. Without faith, we only have what we see around us, and that cannot possible bring us to know God. That is where Bill Maher is now. It's not something you can teach. "If you have to ask, you'll never know..."

Just remember, that Bill Maher is on a search too, just like the rest of us. If he wasn't looking for something, or truly thought it too stupid to mention, he wouldn't have wasted years on a documentary. If he did, then the joke must be on him. So what does that mean for us? Do what he probably doesn't want you to do; pray, don't make a big deal about the movie, and don't be afraid to have faith!

A Lovely Walk

2008-09-27T19:57:00.000-07:00

Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self seeking,it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.

1 Corinthians 13:4-7

I watched "A Walk to Remember" the other night (I'm not afraid to admit that movie ROCKS!), and though it is by no means a recent movie, I think it's worthy of a reminder and another watch then and again!

Anyone who's seen the movie knows that the verse above was used a few times throughout the movie. I mention this movie because it is one of the few movies that really treat love as, well, "love." The keyword is faith, the Faith that Jaime(played by Mandy Moore) had in Landon, and how that faith transforms love in lives from a dirty club rap song, to something beautiful, and special.

Disclaimer: If you have NOT seen the movie, stop reading, watch it and resume reading. For sake of what I'm going to talk about, plus I'm going to ruin the ending.

Sometimes we can be impatient. It's what happens when love "wants." It's what happens when we do not offer ourselves up to God first before offering ourselves to another person. A patient love lets time heal the scars of a past, and bring the present to perfection before fully embracing the gift. Patient love means it has faith, because it believes in a person even when all the world, or the persons past says it can never happen.
Landon was a punk, a false friend. He tricked someone into jumping off a bridge into dangerous water to be his friend. We may have never literally done that, but have we ever lead people into sin, or forced someone to change who they were, so they would be accepted? Or have we allowed that to ever happen to ourselves?
Jaime believed in Landon, however it wasn't easy for her. She witnessed him fall, betray her to her face and in front of the whole school. But Jaime also had faith, and was patient. She believed in forgiveness, that of God, and the kind she herself could give. Her father didn't believe in him at the beginning, the school ridiculed Landon for dating a loser. But love was patient. The change was painful for Landon, but when someone, even one person, has faith in you, that's enough.

Sometimes we can be unkind. What can we expect, we're all human, we mess up. But what should we expect? We should always be expecting the best out of someone, kindness. Remember as a little kid, like in elementary school, when boys liked girls they threw rocks at them and when girls liked boys they wrote notes to them saying they were someone else? Showing feelings can sometimes be so difficult, and I don't mean just to gf/bf but to every person close. Sometimes we can be mean. But then again, we can be mean even when we know the person very well. What would love be like if every little unkindness the people never talked again? Love that is kind means love not only that shows visibly and invisibly, but that overcomes human weakness.
Landon was unkind to Jaime, he said some mean things to her. Not only did Landon learn to be kind, but Jaime recognized the humanity of Landon, especially due to his rough past, and forgave. Forgiveness is key.

Sometimes we let envy take us over, and we become self seeking. We forget how God always knows just what we need, in precisely the right moments. Envy is dangerous, because it can lead to some serious stuff. We start acting out of urges and making love a one person thing instead of for two (or more). How precious is love that doesn't want. It is that purity that people can be with each other and that be enough. It doesn't say I want more from you, it says I'm fulfilled with just this.
In the movie, I think Landon best personifies that love does not envy, and that it does not seek for the self. Landon put aside things of his past and let Jaime be enough for him. A number of instances showed this giving of himself, putting aside his desires, and looked to how Jaime would like to be treated. He showed character and purity. When he planned a romantic night under the stars, he brought two blankets. That simple gesture, how awesome! To have planned ahead to be pure and think completely of Jaime. A lot of times, impurities come out when caught in the moment, like a deer in the headlights, we freeze. But by doing as Landon did, and thinking ahead to how he should act, a plan of attack per se, that problem was solved before it even began. Again Landons simple act of pulling up her sweater sleeve when she fell asleep on his shoulder. It is showing love that doesn't envy even when no one is looking.

But even when love is between two people, it is not really love unless it is mindful and true for all those around. Therefore, for love to really be love, it cannot boast or be proud. A love that is not boastful respects the beliefs of all those around and involved.
Landon knew that Jaime wasn't allowed to date. He did not flip out, but instead took up courage and went to Jaimes father and asked to take her to dinner. When he said no, he asked for him to kindly reconsider. Jaime did not boast of her love to her her father, but instead showed through her own kind actions that her love was real. It took no fancy speech to tell the world they were in love, the kind actions and respect towards each other and others was all everyone had to hear.

Remember the key is forgiveness? Love keeps no record of wrongs, because forgiveness can never be deteriorated. Do we know someone who has time after time let us down, or done something so painful to us that we just say never again? Or maybe it can be subtle, like even after we think we have forgiven someone, we still bring up their past against them? Forgive and not forget? Remember, theres no one person who this kind of situation is not painful for. Theres always one person who is struggling to forgive someone, get over the hurt, and theres always the other person who is at the mercy of the other, asking for forgiveness.
Jaime didn't keep a record of wrongs against Landon. If she did then they would have been over after the first play rehearsal. Theres no tally book, they looked past instances and stuck it out to the beautiful end.

So we know that love is supposed to protect, to trust, to hope, and to persevere, but sometimes the question is just, how? I think the answer, and Mandy Moore would agree, is faith. First, from faith in God. God is the source, the author of this wonderful book of life containing our loves hardships and death. Without that faith, we are running through the dark. But that faith inspires faith in each other, and our relationships. We need to believe in people! Believe not only in our purpose and desire for love, but that the same desire lives in every other person as well!

Ok, I'll admit that this movie had more cheese in it then Wisconsin, but that cheese was not in the message of the movie, just some of the dorky lines. This movie gives a real life example of how to love like God. And all I said, it of course doesn't just apply to the boy girl love, but every relationship and every friend. And it shows love as something positive, beautiful, and life giving. In the words of Mandy Moores song on the killer soundtrack to this movie

It's gonna be love
It's gonna be great
It's gonna be more than I can take
It's gonna be free
It's gonna be real
It's gonna be everything I feel

The Real World: On Tap

2008-09-26T09:31:00.000-07:00

I admit, I was a bit of a hypocrite. I made a post telling everyone to watch the Office, and well, I did not, but for good reason I will tell you! (I'll watch it on nbc.com anyways)

There's a new ministry spreading throughout the adult Catholic culture called Theology on Tap. It caters to the 21 and over crowd, as is apparent in the name, and it is basically as the name says, it is a fun, casual, Theological talk or discussion, where those of age enjoy a few "beverages." Of course to quell any suspicions or harsh criticisms, they obviously do not serve alcohol to anyone under 21 (there is however plenty of free food and non-alcoholic beverages), and there is also a 2 drink limit for those over 21, making sure it is a safe, enjoyable, and moral evening.

Like I said, there is an increasing number of these events popping up, and I must say I think it is a great thing, as some may be shocked to hear(perhaps not). It is a great way to reach out, especially to the younger adult culture, in a responsible way. There is a different speaker on a particular theological topic, ranging from life issues, morality, to anything else. I particularly think its a great idea, because it shows especially the young culture, a responsible lifestyle. It shows how drinking should be done; of age, not passed limits (if the effects kick in, its too far), and with God at the center, like every action. It's also a comfortable and completely human environment. The talks are generally fun, interesting, lots of great dialogue and discussion, but it can show how the Church operates in our daily life, whether in a church or bar (on our campus, we don't have it in a bar of course, but many Theology on taps are, usually limited to 21+ crowds).

Last night they hosted Theology on Tap at our campus in a small auditorium area, and it was pretty well attended, both by undergrads and everyone on up. The talk was lead by a priest and a nun, Father Richard Mullins of the Diocese of Arlington, VA, and Sister Clare Hunter, a Franciscan Sister of the Eucharist. Such outgoing and fun people, talkative and funny, yet so deeply in Love with the Lord.

They gave a great talk entitled "The Real World." It was about what the modern culture tells us is the real world, when really it's an illusion. However, its unfortunately an illusion people are living as a reality. Reality shows like The Real World, The Hills, give a poor representation of how to live a respectable life; life is either a party or a drama. There are people, especially in college, that do live this life, but through the message of Jesus and prayer we can transform our culture. How awesome is it to live for Jesus, to literally live counter cultural!

Amen?
Cool, ok

The Office...Oh yeah....

2008-09-25T09:46:00.000-07:00

If you don't plan on watching The Office season premier tonight, on NBC at 9:00/ 8:00 central time for anyone reading my blog in the midwest, then you are out of your mind. Well, I admit, that is a harsh personal sentiment, but still, some truth remains. I'm psyched, a cliff hanging end to last year (remember?!). How will it all turn out? Will there be love, or tragedy??

Who knows, only this season will tell!

It's a small small world

2008-09-13T19:37:00.000-07:00

If you've ever looked into the sky on a clear starry night, and began to think about the creation and order of the cosmos, you realize it takes about 10 seconds, and then, your brain explodes. Imagine the infinite number of stars in an endless universe, and surrounding each one of those stars we see, is another solar system with planets, just as big as the ones we know. I can barely fathom our nine planets (eight), in constant super speed orbit around the sun, but there are infinitely many more just...*BOOM* (that was the moment my brain exploded)

And with all this over our heads, still there is a God who has formed it all in the palm of his hand. And not only has this great and Powerful God created all this, but as it says in Psalms 147:4,

He has counted all the stars and knows them by name

And I don't think this is some abstraction, but our God truly knows each star by name.

But even as all creation comes from our Father in heaven, still there is a greater truth hidden beneath it all. Because even though He has created a boundless universe, mighty mountains, and the deepest seas, out of ALL of this, He chose to create US in His own image. He chose our hearts to place that seed of love into, and to eventually one day send his only son down to die for.
So the God of all creation, of everything, so over our wildest conception, could become so deeply placed in the closest possible way to us, I think thats the real point that should make our head explode.

When Jesus isn't in our lives, there's something missing, sometimes explained as an "emptiness." We say that we often try and fill the void, and when we try and fill it with the wrong things, namely, not Jesus, we still come up empty. Look around, there's a lot of creation to try and fill ourselves with. There's a lot of the stuff that fades with time that can be used to try and fill us up. So with how much stuff is around us, how come we can't find fulfillment without Jesus? We can see the universe, mountains, and oceans around us, but do we remember that out of it all, it is us that God chose to create in His image? The problem is we are filling ourselves with Creation, and not the Creator.

So it's nice to daydream, not so nice to reassemble your head, but there's a comfort in knowing that though at times we can feel small, and just a passing moment in the course of history, that the truth behind it all is that we are each endowed with such a great purpose, destined throughout all creation, for us NOW, and such a close love, that it would be the greatest tragedy not to make every small moment count, and let our purpose slip away through our hands while we sit and just look at the sky.

Esto Vir!

2008-09-09T19:49:00.000-07:00

Esto Vir, or the latin translated "Be a Man!," what does it really mean? Sorry women this blog isn't about you, but it should be something for you! (I'm not insinuating anything by that...), and replace "man" with "woman" and hey, it probably fits anyways.

Once again I'm going to insert a Thomas a Kempis quote here that I stumbled upon, for conversation and insights sake

"As iron in fire loses its rust and takes on a flaming glow, so the man who turns wholly to God loses his sluggishness and becomes a new man. When a man begins to grow lukewarm in spiritual matters, he fears the least labor and cheerfully accepts consolation from the outside world. But when he begins to overcome himself and walk manfully in the way of God, he takes little account of the things that were formerly burdensome to him"

In short, it takes a man (arg I'm going to bold every time I say that, because you must say it with manly inflection) to praise God, or better yet it takes praising God to be a man(grr).

What society tells us about what it means to be a man is about as far from it as can be. Material and popular society tells us that the measure of a man is the number of women he can "hook up" with, or how many brewskis he can throw back before getting drunk.

But is it non manly, or I guess womanly? (nah not womanly), to say the measure of a man comes from the heart? Thomas a Kempis uses the phrase to "walk manfully in the way of God". How awesome! How true. A term I've always loved is "self mastery," basically being in control of ourselves and our actions. But not only being in control, but mastering ourselves so that our intentions match up with those of Gods! Now that is manful, because as Jesus is the ultimate example of what it means to be a man, it is simple to see that it takes being like Jesus, walking in the ways of God, to be a man! It takes absolutely zero self control to go out to a party and do mentioned things, but it takes a real man to pull the strength from deep inside himself and resist temptations to stay on the path to righteousness.

And it is a struggle! Thats why it takes a man, because it requires that inner strength, that "self mastery," to resist sin. And as a brothahood, every male in the community is responsible for his brother, building him up, and holding him accountable. As it says in Proverbs 27:17

As iron sharpens iron, so man sharpens his fellow man.

Arg! Tell me that doesn't pump you up, make you want to eat beef, lift heavy weights, and watch football? Thats a cool parallel too, between proverbs and Thomas a Kempis, but beyond that initial viking impulse it gives you when reading it, it has so much importance for us in our everyday lives. As we battle the ways of the world each and every day, it takes a community of strong men who are willing to stand up for Jesus Christ to continuously build eachother up, or else we all fall. No man is an island, but in a community that really focuses on making each other sharp, has the potential to bring light to the world and change the status quo of what it means by modern standards to "esto vir!"

Now some beefy male pictures

Tempting...

2008-08-23T14:06:00.000-07:00

I read this today, and hope you will too! It is an excerpt from "The Imitation of Christ" by Thomas a Kempis, and Augustinian monk from the mid 15th century, and one of the most influential Christian spiritual writings in history.

Many people try to escape temptations, only to fall more deeply. We cannot conquer simply by fleeing, but by patience and true humility we become stronger than all our enemies. The man who only shuns temptations outwardly and does not uproot them will make little progress; indeed they will quickly return, more violent than before.

Little by little, in patience and long-suffering you will overcome them, by the help of God rather than by severity and your own rash ways. Often take counsel when tempted; and do not be harsh with others who are tempted, but console them as you yourself would wish to be consoled.

The beginning of all temptation lies in a wavering mind and little trust in God, for as a rudderless ship is driven hither and yon by waves, so a careless and irresolute man is tempted in many ways. Fire tempers iron and temptation steels the just. Often we do not know what we can stand, but temptation shows us what we are.

In my opinion, we come to 2 big roadblocks that prevent us from overcoming temptations. One is fear, and two is a lack of fear. The first fear is "unhealthy" and the second is "healthy."
We often have an unhealthy fear of overcoming temptations, here's what I mean. A common fear is "Well if I stop (insert temptation) altogether, I will just build up all this stuff, and then I will fail and end up being so much worse than I was before!."
Instead of striving for perfection, we allow ourselves to be mediocre. We are content with "moderation." Don't even think about joining the ARMY because with that attitude you will never "Be all that you can be."
I will say that in some cases, this is true, that we often do just get worse, but the problem is not because we can never overcome that temptation, but it is that we are not seeing AND seeking God's grace in overcoming the temptation!
This is exactly what Thomas a Kempis says so well, so read it again real quick! Don't be afraid to strive to conquer a temptation! God's love ALWAYS wins.
A side note about moderation however, I will say that the fearful attitude I mentioned, is most of the time not true. Striving to give in to temptations moderately (we do it more than we might think), in most instances also leads us to becoming worse than we were before.

I mentioned two types of fear, and the second I think is a lack of healthy fear. This is the fear of God. Not like "ah if I sin I will be struck by a lightning bolt," but a fear that the word of God, which warns us very clearly about temptations (including what they include) and the consequences of sin, is something important! and meant for now!
Who are we to put off resisting temptations for years down the road? This is a huge issue that we can get while in college. Four years away from home? I'll live it up now, and then later on clean up the act in the real world. Talk about turning the message of the Cross into toothpicks. Where is the love for our bro's and sis's around us with a mindset like that? What have we done with that Love God has given us? We are the keepers of Christs message, which makes us the messengers, so lets not encourage our friends into stuff that we know ain't alright.

A final thought about temptation and fear, I usually enjoy Death Cab For Cutie's poetry, but Fear is not the heart of Love. Jesus is the heart of Love, so whatever temptation we may be facing, small or large, let's get to the heart of it!

New Beginnings

2008-08-22T18:27:00.000-07:00

Attention Blogging Family!

The "New Year" for blogs is upon us. This can either make or break our blogging experience, and I know we all have so many potential blogging topics, that frankly I've seen as being a pretty poor effort so far (I myself of course am one of these, and I do however attribute it to summer, it is a killer for blog life).

But lets start on a good leg! Get thoughts out there, freedom of speech!

This concludes my blog about blogging.

Disclaimer: Do not become detached from reality by doing too much blogging either, or too materialistic with expensive computers.

The WHOLE Bible?!?!

2008-07-30T09:46:00.000-07:00

I was having a conversation a little while ago with someone who was not a firm believer in God, and they said something that kinda struck me. I forget exactly what it was but it was something to the effect of "well I've never really read the bible..." as they were referring to the "whole" bible. I thought to myself, well I've never even read the whole bible! Which is OK, it's a honkin read, even though it is CRITICAL to get into scripture. Regardless, it prompted me into a little action.

A few weeks ago I started a guided yearly bible, where I read a little old and new testament a day, and in a year from now, I will have read the bible! I understand why many Christians have never "read" the bible, which comes to a surprise to many non-Christians. Flat out, the bible is not a novel. It is not meant to be read cover to cover. It is truly God's inspired word through the hands of men, and they've all got something different, important to say. It is ridiculous to pick up the bible and read straight through starting at Genesis 1:1 (the first line) and finishing at Revelations 22:21 (the last line).

As practical Christians, we use the bible where we need it in our life. The bible is meant to nourish and develop our spirituality, not make us smarter for reading a big holy book. Every time we pick up the bible to read it, we need to ask ourselves, am I getting a big head, or a burning heart? Scripture is so important in our lives, but if we do not read it with a prayerful heart, then we get none of it's lasting effects. There have just been times when I have read passages and just been like "Wow." But if we do what WE want with scripture, and not be open to the Holy Spirit to work in our hearts while we read it, then we might as well be reading a novel.

So anyways, that is what I love about doing this year long bible plan thing. Each day there is about a 10-15 minute reading, split up between a book of the old and a book of the new testament (and it does follow through the respective book until it is done), which gives a good juxtaposition, because we need that to nourish us. Not only does it make the reading much easier to take in and embrace, but it gives a great chance to pray about that particular reading for that day, and listen to what it really has to say. Though we may not memorize the whole thing, or remember every little story, scripture has a lasting effect on our hearts, because as we allow God to work in our lives, we grow a little bit each day.

A year is a big commitment, I know! but I am certainly not going to let that deter me from trying, and hopefully next July, the bible will be a little more familiar to me!

Read scripture every day! Even if it's just one verse. You might just say "Wow" like never before

Ancient Wisdom

2008-07-28T17:23:00.000-07:00

History can be such a testimony to our faith, and be just what our hearts need to hear. I have just finished reading St. Augustine's book On Free Choice of the Will, written about 400 AD, and though I am not going to write you blog readers a book report, there were just some quotes and wisdom in it that really struck me as beautiful and powerful to our lives in Christ.

I wont comment too much on the writings, but let you think about them in your own way, and hopefully check out the book yourselves, because it answers some of the toughest questions we as Christians face, such as do we have free will, why does God allow evil in the world, and how should we use our free will. To know there have been people that have gone before us that have tackled the questions masterfully is, well, comforting.

The greatest message I received, though not necessarily the purpose of the book, put some questions into perspective for me. I have free will, so that means I can do what I want, right? Why live "good" lives? Why not just live in sin?, it may seem more fun anyways. Think about it, then more importantly, act as Christ teaches us

Our life matters, and matters what we do with it...

"Therefore, whoever has contemplated the whole creation and considers it carefully, if he follows the way that leads to wisdom, will indeed see that wisdom reveals itself graciously to him along the way and that in all of providence it runs to meet him. And as the joy of his burning desire to follow that way grows stronger, the very wisdom that he so ardently longs to achieve will make his way more beautiful."

"God their creator deserves the most noble praise that human beings can offer him,not only because he places them in a just order when they sin, but also because he created them in such a way that even the filth of sin could in no way make them inferior to corporeal light, for which he is nonetheless praised"

The book ends so powerfully to me
"So great is the beauty of justice, so great the joy of the eternal light, that is, of the unchangeable truth and wisdom, that even if we could abide in it only one day, for the sake of that short time we would rightly and justly despise countless years of this life, full of pleasures and an abundance of transitory goods"

Kingdom of Noise

2008-07-13T16:12:00.000-07:00

Judd and Maggie Bolger have a new cd out! Alright yea man! It is called "Kingdom of Noise," the long anticipated album following their album "Subjects" (which you should also purchase via itunes (in fact, get their first one called "Concentrate" on top of it all)). But the most awesome thing about the cd besides the music is how YOU can acquire a copy!

Go to this link here http://www.juddandmaggiemusic.com/ which you can copy and paste into your url, and you can get it for free! Well you could, heres how, its easy.

You have two choices on how to get the cd

1. You can tell 3 friends about it via email and get it for free, while also spreadin the judd and mag love

or

2. You can donate any amount of money between $1-$25 and then download it.

Either choice is super! They would enjoy your listening support either way, and your ears will feel good after as well (so will your heart!)

So if ya haven't heard the word, get the cd fool!

Independence Day

2008-07-04T08:19:00.000-07:00

IN CONGRESS, July 4, 1776.

The unanimous Declaration of the thirteen united States of America,

When in the Course of human events, it becomes necessary for one people to dissolve the political bands which have connected them with another, and to assume among the powers of the earth, the separate and equal station to which the Laws of Nature and of Nature's God entitle them, a decent respect to the opinions of mankind requires that they should declare the causes which impel them to the separation.

We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.--That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed, --That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness. Prudence, indeed, will dictate that Governments long established should not be changed for light and transient causes; and accordingly all experience hath shewn, that mankind are more disposed to suffer, while evils are sufferable, than to right themselves by abolishing the forms to which they are accustomed. But when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably the same Object evinces a design to reduce them under absolute Despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such Government, and to provide new Guards for their future security.--Such has been the patient sufferance of these Colonies; and such is now the necessity which constrains them to alter their former Systems of Government. The history of the present King of Great Britain is a history of repeated injuries and usurpations, all having in direct object the establishment of an absolute Tyranny over these States. To prove this, let Facts be submitted to a candid world.

He has refused his Assent to Laws, the most wholesome and necessary for the public good.
He has forbidden his Governors to pass Laws of immediate and pressing importance, unless suspended in their operation till his Assent should be obtained; and when so suspended, he has utterly neglected to attend to them.
He has refused to pass other Laws for the accommodation of large districts of people, unless those people would relinquish the right of Representation in the Legislature, a right inestimable to them and formidable to tyrants only.
He has called together legislative bodies at places unusual, uncomfortable, and distant from the depository of their public Records, for the sole purpose of fatiguing them into compliance with his measures.
He has dissolved Representative Houses repeatedly, for opposing with manly firmness his invasions on the rights of the people.
He has refused for a long time, after such dissolutions, to cause others to be elected; whereby the Legislative powers, incapable of Annihilation, have returned to the People at large for their exercise; the State remaining in the mean time exposed to all the dangers of invasion from without, and convulsions within.
He has endeavoured to prevent the population of these States; for that purpose obstructing the Laws for Naturalization of Foreigners; refusing to pass others to encourage their migrations hither, and raising the conditions of new Appropriations of Lands.
He has obstructed the Administration of Justice, by refusing his Assent to Laws for establishing Judiciary powers.
He has made Judges dependent on his Will alone, for the tenure of their offices, and the amount and payment of their salaries.
He has erected a multitude of New Offices, and sent hither swarms of Officers to harrass our people, and eat out their substance.
He has kept among us, in times of peace, Standing Armies without the Consent of our legislatures.
He has affected to render the Military independent of and superior to the Civil power.
He has combined with others to subject us to a jurisdiction foreign to our constitution, and unacknowledged by our laws; giving his Assent to their Acts of pretended Legislation:
For Quartering large bodies of armed troops among us:
For protecting them, by a mock Trial, from punishment for any Murders which they should commit on the Inhabitants of these States:
For cutting off our Trade with all parts of the world:
For imposing Taxes on us without our Consent:
For depriving us in many cases, of the benefits of Trial by Jury:
For transporting us beyond Seas to be tried for pretended offences
For abolishing the free System of English Laws in a neighbouring Province, establishing therein an Arbitrary government, and enlarging its Boundaries so as to render it at once an example and fit instrument for introducing the same absolute rule into these Colonies:
For taking away our Charters, abolishing our most valuable Laws, and altering fundamentally the Forms of our Governments:
For suspending our own Legislatures, and declaring themselves invested with power to legislate for us in all cases whatsoever.
He has abdicated Government here, by declaring us out of his Protection and waging War against us.
He has plundered our seas, ravaged our Coasts, burnt our towns, and destroyed the lives of our people.
He is at this time transporting large Armies of foreign Mercenaries to compleat the works of death, desolation and tyranny, already begun with circumstances of Cruelty & perfidy scarcely paralleled in the most barbarous ages, and totally unworthy the Head of a civilized nation.
He has constrained our fellow Citizens taken Captive on the high Seas to bear Arms against their Country, to become the executioners of their friends and Brethren, or to fall themselves by their Hands.
He has excited domestic insurrections amongst us, and has endeavoured to bring on the inhabitants of our frontiers, the merciless Indian Savages, whose known rule of warfare, is an undistinguished destruction of all ages, sexes and conditions.

In every stage of these Oppressions We have Petitioned for Redress in the most humble terms: Our repeated Petitions have been answered only by repeated injury. A Prince whose character is thus marked by every act which may define a Tyrant, is unfit to be the ruler of a free people.

Nor have We been wanting in attentions to our Brittish brethren. We have warned them from time to time of attempts by their legislature to extend an unwarrantable jurisdiction over us. We have reminded them of the circumstances of our emigration and settlement here. We have appealed to their native justice and magnanimity, and we have conjured them by the ties of our common kindred to disavow these usurpations, which, would inevitably interrupt our connections and correspondence. They too have been deaf to the voice of justice and of consanguinity. We must, therefore, acquiesce in the necessity, which denounces our Separation, and hold them, as we hold the rest of mankind, Enemies in War, in Peace Friends.

We, therefore, the Representatives of the united States of America, in General Congress, Assembled, appealing to the Supreme Judge of the world for the rectitude of our intentions, do, in the Name, and by Authority of the good People of these Colonies, solemnly publish and declare, That these United Colonies are, and of Right ought to be Free and Independent States; that they are Absolved from all Allegiance to the British Crown, and that all political connection between them and the State of Great Britain, is and ought to be totally dissolved; and that as Free and Independent States, they have full Power to levy War, conclude Peace, contract Alliances, establish Commerce, and to do all other Acts and Things which Independent States may of right do. And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor.

Summer College Retreat Update

2008-05-30T10:52:00.000-07:00

The retreat in progress for college aged students is whipping into shape, do not be afraid! Here is a little more info and an important change. It is being put together by John and I to be a growing experience with God, our personal faith, and with eachother in community. The actual "theme" and message of the retreat is still to be determined, but it will be good.
It will be a retreat open to everyone, wherever their faith with God is, if it is strong and thirsting for more, or even completely non existent. There will be lots of time to just hang out and enjoy a nice camping area, as well as open discussion and exploration. So start spreading the word, take off work, and put it on the calendar for goodness sakes!

The retreat will be August 1-3, Friday to Sunday

The Location:

Shawnee State Park

http://www.dcnr.state.pa.us/stateparks/parks/shawnee.aspx

Check out the website!

Features: 450 Acre lake access for swimming, fishing, boating whatev
Lots of hiking trails!
Flush toilets, and showers!
Private and remote camping sites
A vast environment that is sure to inspire a focus on God eh?

Cual es su nombre?

2008-05-15T09:42:00.000-07:00

Sorry I'm late on this blog, but as you know, I'm back from the center of america, EL Salvador, what a trip. With the Clemson University chapter of Engineers Without Borders, we embarked on a "site assessment" trip. The trip was designed to gather data and observations, get valuable knowledge of the projects we were doing beforehand to have lots of information and experience to work from, and to make contacts and connections. We went down knowing some people at the parent organization called "La Coordinadora" which is a group of roughly 80 villages in the southern Rio Lempa region of the country who have come together to promote peace and sustainability in the country which has been ravaged by civil unrest, war, and infrastructure problems. Here are some pics from the trip, but like I said, I could write a book on the whole experience.

In the town we stayed in, Isla de Medez, gathering around a local well

My bedroom and bed. No mattress necessary

Me, sittin in a boat in the Bahia de Jiquilisco right behind our house

Sunday, in city of Zacatecoluca (yea its fun to say). We went to mass at pictured church and experienced the marketplace

Discussing with local groups the wind power system and possibilities

Inside a local cashew processing plant, by hand!

Our portable microbiology water testing system. Testing water samples from various places

Standing on a water distribution tower near the river

A colorful cemetery next to the river (theres crocs in the river!)

Me and David installing the solar panel and wind data generator on a radio tower

Performing soil percolation tests on some of the ground. Soil must drain water at a certain rate for it to be usable for building.

Petting a pretty cow on an organic/solar powered farm we toured

The daily running of cows through the streets, coming back from pastures in the evening, walking miles home every day!

We woke up at 4:30 one morning to survey some land(and because we are insane) and got some secret glimpses into the wonders of God's natural wonders!

Planting 3500 mangrove trees in the swamps of the bay!

We of course made a little time to visit the Pacific ocean a mile from the village

Me and my host family, Daysi, Juan, and Juan Jr.

This cow in the picture was outside our morning meeting place everyday, and it was a bit sad because he was the only animal in the whole town to be tied up(he was being sold). He kept getting bad luck as we witnessed this pig come and pee on his face (rather funny bad luck)

The Garden of Roses at Universidad CentroAmerica. In this garden, a number of Jesuit priests were killed by some El Salvadoran soldiers during the El Salvadoran civil war for their championing work in the nonviolent yet proactive Liberation Theology. Inside the building, we saw a museum dedicated to Archbishop Oscar Romero, a controversial yet undisputed hero and protector of Salvadoran dignity during the war times. He was murdered during a mass, but his positive effect was legendary. The museum preserved many artifacts including the clothing worn by Romero and the Jesuits while murdered (bulletholes and all)

A bustling marketplace in the mountains of El Salvador. They grow lots of coffee in the area. Teddy, your souvenir came from here

We went to a beautiful restaurant in the mountains, and they had monkeys(quite sad) but I held ones hand! Just something neat

The whole group. Active volcanoes in the background!

Like I said, these photos are merely a glimpse into the trip, I would be glad to share details of the journey with anyone.
Have a rockin summer everyone! Mine has been tenfold already!

El Salvador

2008-05-06T09:09:00.000-07:00

I am in El Salvador, we are currently at "La Coordinadora" headquarters compiling data on computers. I could write a book on my experience thusfar, and it's only been 3 days. I don't really have the capability of writing a real blog or anything, so I'll be glad to share when I get back home. Lots of pictures!

Buenos Noches

LISTEN!!!

2008-04-29T19:14:00.000-07:00

I am heartly sorry for the people out there that I promised to make cds of our Jazz Ensemble music, yet never did. In truth I was waiting for more music to get put out for us, but it took a long time for various reasons. But now I have some! These are recordings from our live concerts, these recordings come from 2 concerts, our most recent one, and our earliest one back in fall. As punishment for being so late, or if you can't download these online, I will burn anyone a cd. Listen to them all! stretch your musical mind by listening! Some beautiful vocals by our singer Molly Spain on The Very Tought of You, I Said No, Black Coffee, God Bless the Child, and They Can't Take That Away From Me. For some smokin' bass *ahem* check out Fast Forward, Black Orpheus, or well... all of em'! The spring concert recordings are a bit quieter (recording stuff) but i recommend listening to them with the volume way high!

Spring 2008 Concert-

Click here to watch 'MoaninAlexanders-Big-Time-Band'

Click here to watch 'Cubajazz'

Click here to watch 'Fast-Forward-37'

Click here to watch 'Black-Orpheus-36'

Click here to watch 'God-Bless-The-Child-48-16'

Click here to watch 'Black-Coffee-62'

Click here to watch 'They-Cant-Take-That-Away-From-Me'

Click here to watch 'La-Guera-Baila'

Click here to watch 'Groovin-Hard'

Fall Concert-

Click here to watch 'Time-After-Time-58'

Click here to watch 'Sister-Sadie'

Click here to watch 'The-Very-Thought-of-You-39'

Click here to watch 'Count-Bubba'

Click here to watch 'Malaguena-44'

Click here to watch 'I-Said-No-29'

Click here to watch 'Blue-Bossa-34'

Click here to watch 'I-Concentrate-on-You'

Click here to watch 'Azulito'

Finals, Death Week

2008-04-25T16:32:00.000-07:00

Today marks not only my LAST class of the year, but the beginning of the dreaded finals week. Finals week is characterized by mindnumbing studying and panicking, as well as a good amount of fun and crazy time in the evenings because class is no longer in session. But as I am here, I have to study.
I tend to start my studying sessions with everything but studying. Usually I spend 20 minutes playing a mindless game on the internet, usually involving monkeys and bombs, blogging, and checking my email about 500 times an hour hoping there will be something new I can respond to and waste more time. Being nearly drowned in math problems, I have decided to compile some math jokes and sayings for you all, of which probably none are actually funny, but dorks like me get a kick out of them.

Q: What do you get when you cross an elephant and a banana?
A: | elephant | * | banana | * sin(theta) ...haha

Q: What do you get if you cross a mosquito with a mountain climber.
A: You can't cross a vector with a scalar.

The limit as n goes to infinity of sin (x) /n is 6.
Proof: cancel the n in the numerator and denominator.

A Neanderthal child rode to school with a boy from Hamilton. When his mother found out she said, "What did I tell you? If you commute with a Hamiltonian you'll never evolve!"

Moebius strip no-wear belt drive! (Please see other side for warranty details.)

Q: Why did the chicken cross the Moebius strip?
A: To get to the other ... er, um ...

Old mathematicians never die; they just lose some of their functions.

Life is complex: it has both real and imaginary components

One day, Jesus said to his disciples: "The Kingdom of Heaven is like 3x squared plus 8x minus 9." St. Thomas looked very confused and asked St. Peter: "What does the teacher mean?" St.Peter replied: "Don't worry - it's just another one of his parabolas."

Q: What's a polar bear?
A: A rectangular bear after a coordinate transform.

Classification of mathematical problems as linear and nonlinear is like classification of the Universe as bananas and non-bananas.

Jazz on the Streets

2008-04-18T20:07:00.000-07:00

Here is the follow up to the last blog. This is our last jazz concert of the year. It was a charming evening. Out in the middle of a huge festival in downtown Greenville, against a charming backdrop of a wishing fountain, glass architecture, lights, teeming people, warm breeze, scents of food, it was a prime place for some jazz. Not to mention, some prom was going on, which made the setting a little more grand (quick random rewind to prom, for fond sentiment's sake)

And right down the street was playing Marc Broussard! (If you don't know him, he's sorta a big deal...like sorta) But he didn't steal too much crowd, it was bustling, and for the next 3 hours (yeah it was marathon and tiring) we just played some music, simple as that. Here are some clips of the night, there aren't any of us playing, or me, because I was playing, obviously

The scene (pre show set up)

Stage, sponsored by some organic food company? Our drummer setting up

The bass rig, the upright. Electric was used, was grooved, but sparingly

What it looks like to be a drummer

Overlooking the city streets

Gettin ready to groove

The Greenville city streets glimmering, our trumpet player walking into the neon abyss

Yazz Flute

2008-04-16T06:41:00.000-07:00

Last night was our last jazz ensemble concert here at Clemson. We swung the roof off. We began the concert by putting our baritone sax player out there on the stage to begin with a solo, which he ripped on. Once he played the line to cue us in, some of the rest of the band came in and gradually moved into the tune full in. The song is called Moanin' by Charles Mingus, its awesome and you should listen to it. The song ended abruptly into a drum solo and then on a snare hit led us straight into the next tune which began by a walking bass, guitar solo, and piano accompaniment. The tune, Alexander's Big Band, came to an end. THe next song was a Stan Kenton latin piece called Cubajazz. Following that was a song called Fast Forward, which is basically what the name implies. Once again we played some songs with our lovely singe Molly Spain. We played one singing tune with the whole band, a bluesy tune called "Black Coffee", and then played some songs just as a small group, just me on bass, drummer, piano and a saxophone. The songs included "God Bless the
Child," a Billie Holiday song I think. The band played some more tunes, such as La Gueira Baila (another Stan Kenton tune, which I butchered the spanish spelling), Black ORpheus, and concluded the show with one everyone knows called "In the Mood" by Glenn Miller.

The show went well, and it was our last one in the big time Brooks Center of the school year. However, we have one more band gig, coming up this Friday. We will be going to Greenville to perform at a big city event in the streets! It's going to be fab. I'm psyched because I will actually use my electric bass there for ONE song! The first time all year. Our drummer arranged a whole big band piece(wow) of the song "Peg" by Steely Dan, and it sounds awesome as a jazz band.
Thats it folks, I love music, I'll be playing it the rest of my life. Here are some cool quotes dedicated to the glorious music of jazz

"If you have to ask what jazz is, you'll never know."

- Louis Armstrong

“Jazz will endure just as long people hear it through their feet instead of their brains.”
-John Phillips Sousa

Playing "bop" is like playing Scrabble with all the vowels missing.

-Duke Ellington

I'll play it first and tell you what it is later.

- Miles Davis

Jazz is the only music in which the same note can be played night after night but differently each time.
-Ornette Coleman

That's kind of like how jazz is sometimes. You're out there predicting the future, and no one believes you.
-Branford Marsalis

Some people try to get very philosophical and cerebral about what they're trying to say with jazz. You don't need any prologues, you just play.

-Oscar Peterson

God of This City

2008-04-13T21:26:00.000-07:00

www.268generation.com

Back from Passion 2008, me and Paul had an amazing worship experience in Atlanta this past weekend. Joining up with 10,000 other friends coming together to praise Jesus, yea man! It was an incredibly moving experience, and a visible change in lives and of the world was happening right in front of us. With powerful messages from Louie Giglio and Francis Chan, as well as some rockin' crazy music from the likes of David Crowder, Chris Tomlin, and Charlie Hall. We met some nice people named Amy and Rachel who were exchange students from Ireland! We were prayin for you all, and I could just feel it working, so I hope all of your weekends were good too, heres some of the photos of the weekend

The Office, back to work

2008-04-11T07:47:00.000-07:00

I hope everyone witnessed the triumphant return of the Office last night. If you missed out, then go to nbc.com and check it out online. You will not be one of the "cool kids" until you do. I'm psyched yo. I hope this writers strike has allowed plenty of time for writers to think up lots of quality material for the rest of the season. We're holding onto every breath on Thursdays at 9-9:30 pm!

Retreat!

2008-04-07T18:08:00.000-07:00

I am making the initiative to put together a retreat for college students this summer. I am merely the initiator and leadership will mainly come from above me. The date is set, July 18-20. It will most likely be a camping weekend, destination: unknown. It's in the planning stages but don't you worry. More details to come, but you all have restricted access right now. All you need to know is save the date,July 18-20, and dispatch the word so this can launch. It seems like a far way off, but prepare your hearts now.

A Long Way Gone

2008-04-05T07:57:00.000-07:00

The book I have just finished reading, entitled A Long Way Gone: Memoirs of a boy soldier, was a very awakening and powerful book. This book is a true account of a boy named Ishmael from Sierra Leone in west Africa, whose life is ravaged by the political and military turmoil that exists in many parts of Africa. After his community, family, and friends are all killed by the rebel group RUF(Revolutionary United Front), he is taken in by the government army in order to spare his own life, where he begins a life solely built on ruthless murder and revenge. He is brainwashed into committing incredible acts of brutality and violence in the name of "freedom", all the while being only 11 years old. He spends the entirety of the next 4 years going from town to town, murdering, and doing many drugs.
The book has a rather happy ending, for Ishmael at least, where he was rescued by UNICEF and UN troops (I'm not giving away anything from the book really), and through a long and difficult process described in the book, tries to regain his former life through mental rehab.

I would very much recommend this book, as it is a glimpse into the reality of child soldiers in Africa going on even right now, especially in areas of Darfur and Rwanda. However I must warn that this was a very mature book, it describes in gruesome and horrific detail a lot of what he did and witnessed, so if you are sensitive to that kind of reading, you might want to refrain. But all in all I think it is a very important book, and one thing is for sure, it really makes you appreciate every freedom we have here, how we do not have to wake up and fear for our lives.

Ishmael Beah came to the united states, finished high school, and went to college, and now he is a writer and active member of world affairs concerning this type of thing.

The Great Awakening

2008-04-03T07:04:00.000-07:00

It's been a goal of mine lately to try and read 2 books a week (don't hold me to it completely). I just finished my first and I would like to share it with you.

The Great Awakening, by Jim Wallis. As you can see by the subtitle, its a book about incorporating faith in politics, particularly modern issues, but it draws upon a historical perspective to back up some of his cases. In short I think you should read this book. Everyone should. Why? Because it makes an argument that EVERYONE needs to hear. This is because it dispels the notion of "Religious Right", the idea that all Christians are Republican and conservative etc... and really focuses on issues we as a globe are facing. Religion is not partisan as has become the general consensus. And one of the main points of the book is to show that the biggest issues in society now, the war on terror and Iraq, health care, the economy, the environment, have been looked at from an "incomplete" perspective from both the left and right.
Jim Wallis is an evangelical who is a well known traveling speaker, professor, and social movement starter. He makes a great case, and it's really something I suggest reading, because you really don't understand it until you do read it. We get comfortable attaching our faith partisan issues, when really we should be using our faith to solve the issues as a whole. Christianity doesn't necessarily make all the issues seem as polar as they are. It's important to note that the book is NOT suggesting adopting Christianity as a national religion, in fact the book opposes that, saying it would be terrible if that were to happen. But faith plays an integral part in shaping our policies, mainly due to it's moral foundation.
The greatest message of this book is that change can happen and NEEDS to happen. Things are not good right now in society. 30 Million people do not have access to health care in America, we are fighting an unjust war overseas (and yes, its has been declared unjust by the Pope and numerous evangelicals alike), we are degrading the environment at absurd rates, and poverty, with limited aid, is out the wazoo. But we as people, Christians especially, have a responsibility to start changing this, because it is tearing our world apart. The book of course, says a lot more, this is merely a blog.

Anyone who has an interest in politics (which should be everyone), and everyone who either does have a faith, or does not (everyone), would greatly benefit from reading this. Don't ignore the issues, and don't polarize yourself and use your faith to back you up.

The Afterlife Realty

2008-03-30T20:22:00.000-07:00

There once was a guy named Al. Al was a good guy by our standards. He went to church on Sundays, believed in God, Heaven, and Hell, and was a decent and nice citizen. One day Al was walking home when he got ran over by a bus.
Al wakes up to a blinding light, and adjusts his eyes, but when he finally looks around, it's not quite what he expected from all he's heard about Heaven or Hell. All Al sees is a plain looking building with a big sign that reads "Afterlife Realty."
"Hi Al, I'm Joe, Joe Tex, I run this little afterlife realty establishment. Now you've been a good guy Joe, so I'm gonna give you the choice to either go to Heaven, or to Hell"
"Well that doesn't seem like a hard choice, I guess I'd like to go to Heaven" replied Al.
"I thought you might say that, but for the "hell" of it, why don't I just show you around, what say we just go check out Hell first, then Heaven, and then you can make up your mind."
So Al and Joe headed downstairs to Hell, but to Al's surprise Hell was nothing at all like he expected. Instead of the fire and brimstone and agony Al had always pictured as Hell, Al saw a long, fancy table in a beautiful hall, as far as hid eyes could see. The table was covered with the most delicious and bountiful food spread he had ever see, all courses and desserts.
Al noticed the people walking around, but there was one peculiar characteristic. All the people had long wooden spoons for arms. The people all walked around in despair with their long spoon arms.
"Hmm, it doesn't really seem all that bad, I'll be honest" said Al to Joe, "but I think I'd like to check out Heaven"
So Al and Joe headed back upstairs to take a look at heaven.
Even more to Al's surprise, when Al saw heaven, it looked exactly the same as Hell! It had the same spread of food, and the same people walking around all with wooden spoons for arms. The only difference was that the spoon people were happy!

Why were the spoon people in heaven happy, although in the same condition as the people in hell were in despair? The people in hell were utterly depressed because although this tantalizing food was before them, they couldn't eat any of it because they had wooden spoons for arms and couldn't pick it up to eat it. But the people in heaven were happy because they were using their wooden spoon arms to feed each other!

Thats the end of the story. I doubt there is an Afterlife realty. And I also doubt Heaven, or Hell will be like that. But that is not the point. The point is the feeding. The point is that heaven in a place of selflessness, whereas hell is a place of selfishness. In Matthew 25:31, we get a passage about "Judgment". But I don't really see this as a prediction of the apocalypse, and if we do, even if it is that, I think we would be missing the point. The point is that the sheep on the right give completely, and heaven is a place for those. In the Catholic church we have a technical name for the actions outlined in this passage. They are called the Corporal Works of Mercy. Jesus came to serve, and calls us to do the same for our brothers and sisters. For when we serve our brothers and sisters, we are also serving Jesus.
A last little snippet of food for thought (true story). After a convent of nuns had finished hearing a message about this passage, one nun stood up and said "I get it! We are all good goats!" Think about it, then act

Spring Break

2008-03-24T18:43:00.000-07:00

Ahhhh spring! Well it was almost officially spring as I returned home to the joyous crowd. With spirits abound, awaiting the glory of the resurrection on Easter morn, through a week of devoted remembrance of the pains our savior went through to allow us to be free. Times with friends over break truly showed the meaning of lent and holy week. The deepest message is of freedom. Our freedom from sin through Jesus' death and passion on Good Friday, to the freedom that showed Jesus' power over his own death, by conquering the grave and rising. This redeeming freedom is the same which allows all of us friends in the following pics to do what we do. To enjoy life, to seek friendships built not on sin but on love, the love of Jesus.

A little visit to the ol' Thed at the Mount. Of course making time for me and Paul to spend some quality time at Sheetz

Helping Seth with his laundry as the early morn begins. For sleeping conditions of the night, consult Teddy's blog

Paying homage to the man. A church on campus

A visit to the grotto in the morn

Fountain in the grotto

A tour of Teddy's facilities of learning

Gigi Barnett comes to visit. I tried to grab some candid shots.

The Big Time

2008-03-21T09:13:00.000-07:00

We have struck fame. Visiting the Mount this past Tuesday, any ordinary lunch was turned into gold as Gigi Barnett, reporter for WJZ 13 strolled in. Seeing the opportunity I've always waited for, I roped her into our table, getting us the camera time. The lighting was right, the timing was perfect, and we nailed it. Check it out! It's not long before we are all getting calls from producers.

Formal Weekend

2008-03-12T06:35:00.000-07:00

Let me tell you a rather wrenching story, yet all too common. It's not about me, nor fraternities, but more about the kind of society we live in.

In my math class I sit next to a person who is in a fraternity, I know him from elsewhere as well so know each other alright. We were just chatting about the weekend and such and he begins to tell me about his fraternity "Formal weekend" coming up in a couple weeks. Now on this formal weekend, he began to brag in that sly, devilish sorta way, that they were going to go, the whole fraternity, to a hotel for the weekend with their dates in Myrtle Beach. He began to explain how all their brothers get their own room and all that sort of stuff, you can imagine, or not.
You get the gist of the story by now.
Now I know this kind of stuff happens like nothing, but I just had to put in my piece I guess.
"So you are going to take your date back and like respect her all night right? Like have an interesting and pure conversation the whole time?"
It was worth a shot, but not so much.
I asked him if his or her parents were knowledgeable about this weekend and he replied that his parents think it is a guys only bonding weekend, and the girl will go with her parents still thinking she is at school.
"So she has parents that probably love her more than anything and do anything to protect her must deal with this and not even know?"
I think I finally hit a nerve because a little defensively replied "It doesn't matter because they will never know"
"Consider your daughter in 25 years from now, the one you created in love and watched grow up her whole life. Finally going to college and secretly going off for a weekend of seduction of some frat boy"
He didn't really have a reply, just kind of a turn around and back to his computer on his desk like nothing.
"It's gonna be fun anyways" I think rather reluctantly he said.
"Just think about that on the night, theres no way you can't now"
He said yea ok... And that was it.
Theres so many fraternity and sorority stories that just reflect that our world has so far to go. The respect for women, and looking into our own selves, has become that of cattle. I said this because as a Christian, I get sick. Not because I am perfect, not because I don't struggle with sin and problems, but because as a Christian I recognize there is simply a better way to live. A life that fills the gaps that the world tells us to fill with pre marital relations and getting drunk. We are all created with pure hearts, and through Jesus alone we need to strive to
keep this purity, well... pure.
The difference between Christians and sinners isn't that Christians don't sin, it's that we actively seek God's purifying grace to help us get back up after sin and try to do better next time.

The HInterland (Sorry David)

2008-03-09T19:45:00.000-07:00

I decided to drive to Clemson this time. After a brief weekend attending Mr. Linganore, I decided to skip out on the train, because I always meet weird people, and hey, I like driving long trips. I, like Mr. David Story, enjoy long road excursions out through the Hinterland, and this is what it is. Currently I have no idea where I am. I am at a Super 8 motel, somewhere between Mt. Airy and Clemson, SC. I guess I am somewhere in the middle of Virginia or North Carolina.
It's been a pleasant drive, just me and myself, and some nice tunes. There are some great driving cd's. Do you notice how sometimes you find a cd that is awesome but was made like 10 years ago and is past popularity, but you find it and love it? That just happened to me. It's The Wallflowers, cd entitled "Bringing Down the Horse". It rocks hard and is a perfection road trippin cd.

The Hinterland is a great place to be sometimes.
Peace

Glory Days

2008-03-07T10:41:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow is the day when I must officially hand down my crown, my pride, my joy. It is when I must hand off my title of Mr. Linganore to the next contestant. I am going to take this next moment to bask in my glory one last time (now that I mention it, probably the only time, it kinda wore off). (I do apologize in advance for being vain)

High school has came and past. Thanks LHS, you were pretty swell... I officially took this title on March 4, 2007, so it's actually a little more than a year ago. Helped along by my tag team administration of Teddy as my manager and Ms. Liz as my escort, we truly made a "Champion" team.

Me and Liz perfecting our swingin' moves. She had an asthma attack on stage and we still pulled it out!

The theme of Mr. Linganore was "Champions", I was Gandalf, dear Billy (poor, humble, yet commendable, number 2, sorry Billy if you are reading this), was Neil Armstrong. What a one two punch!

Me in mid spell, Billy clad in Rocket

We were chatting just that morning in Teddy's kitchen that morning about it, crazy how that all seems to happen!
In fact all the contestants were sweetening. Here are glimpses of a few fellow Linganorians.

Cole wasn't in it, but he held a cool piece of raw meat.

And let's not forget our trust sound man, without whom I could not have sang my song, Billy could not be heard when doing magic, or any of the other things such.

The crowd was WOWed by how foxy I look in a tux, in addition to my cunning wits and lightning fast hands.

Let us not forget the escorting done by friend Ashley

The competition was brutal, we fought hard, one last look at all the contestants in the moment of truth...

Alas... Victory was won. This is the tender part...

I left school with $90 in Outback Steakhouse gift certificates, small trophy, a free tux rental, and a temporary ego.
The whole evening however was memorable not because I won, but because of the gathering of friends and support and the really shared experience of such event by everyone. It's no fun to win by yourself, so we had to celebrate, as friends.

Jungle Music

2008-03-03T07:04:00.000-08:00

Heres a little online writeup about our last concert. It was really cool, because we had alumni from the jazz band come back for a reunion. They are called the Jungleers, which is what the jazz band was called back when it was formed in 1921 to around 1965 or so. It has a lot of history over the ages, becoming one of the premier bands to play big band music of that age (the popular stuff). A select few of these alumni are still around and playing, and every year they meet back for a reunion of old times music. They joined us on stage for a few songs Friday night, and also played at the Ramada inn in town for a 3 hour night for people to dance to the songs they did back in the World War II era. I had the privilege of joining them on stage at our concert as well as playing with them at the ramada. I relieved the other 2 Jungaleer bass players, who graduated college in 1946 and 1960! And they can still play the upright bass! Thats crazy, and I hope I can still do that in oh say 2060. Heres a little review that was on our school website.

Clemson University jazz players both young and old are set to perform a free concert, featuring tunes by some of the most renowned names in jazz music. The Clemson University Jazz Ensemble will match talents with the Jungaleers, an alumni big band, for a swingin’ good time at the Brooks Center for the Performing Arts at 8 p.m. on Friday, February 29.

“We’re looking forward to sharing the stage with the Jungaleers,” said Brian Sproul, director of the 25-member Clemson University Jazz Ensemble. “It’s going to be a great night for jazz.” The student band is slated to perform tunes made famous by Charlie Mingus, George and Ira Gershwin, Rosemary Clooney, and others.

The concert will feature the students playing an up-tempo arrangement of “Alexander’s Big Time Band.” “This arrangement is a swing tune based on the original Dixieland chart,” said Sproul.

The jazz ensemble will also play “Moanin’” by jazz bassist, composer, and bandleader Charlie Mingus. “He’s considered by many to be one of the most important figures of 20th century American music,” Sproul explained. Mingus played and recorded with many legendary jazz performers, including Miles Davis, Charlie Parker, and Duke Ellington. Not only a virtuoso bassist, Mingus was a highly skilled pianist and composer. He was a leading figure in the avant-garde jazz movement. “Moanin’ is his interpretation of an old jazz standard arranged in a modern avant-garde style,” Sproul said.

Molly Spain, a Clemson University vocalist, joins the jazz ensemble in a performance of the “Sway,” a tune made famous by Rosemary Clooney.

The alumni Jungaleers are slated to perform "Moonlight in Vermont," "Most Royal Count" and "Boogie Blue."

In its heyday, the Jungaleers played throughout the Southeast entertaining audiences at college campuses in Tennessee, Georgia, and all over the Palmetto State. The group’s history goes back to the Jungaleers Dance Orchestra, a student-owned and operated dance band that flourished at Clemson from the early 1920s to the mid-1960s.

These alumni players meet annually to talk about the days gone by and of course play. The Clemson Jungaleers Alumni group established the Jungleers Memorial Scholarship Endowment, a scholarship program for Jazz Ensemble members, to promote band music on the Clemson campus.

Total Eclipse of The Heart

2008-02-21T07:20:00.000-08:00

I hope everyone was lucky enough to catch that eclipse last night! Might be a couple er' more years till another rolls around. Here are some photos of this cosmic night to remember.

This is the beginning stage, around 8:45 or so. Like someone took a bite out of it

A warm fire on the beach. The lake beach. And Kenny

A more ominous looking Kenny, and Emily and Kenny

A less ominous Emily, and a more ominous photo of smoke...

In case you missed it, or deem it worthy of seeing again, the eclipse...

Me dreaming to the stars and moon

Don't Sleep Through The Static!

2008-02-19T06:44:00.000-08:00

My man Jack Johnson has just released his new and anticipated album "Sleep Through The Static" I say "Don't" sleep through the static because it rocks, and if you actually sleep through it, then your ears will not be treated well. There are a number of things that I love about this album, I will first provide you with my general review of it.

We all know Jack is chill. His music is mellow, smooth, kinda minimal but melodic. This album is definitely that. The whole album keeps that vibe, and his more upbeat type tunes are not brought out as much. Depending on your own tastes that could be good or bad, but I would say it is good, because the songs are. The first song on the album says it all, its called "All at Once" and it starts off smooth and has a real cool vocal melody that just soooooothes the soul. It fades into the next song, the title track "Sleep Through the Static" with an accordian fade out from the first song and kinda kicks it up a notch, a solid combo. The next song is probably the most upbeat on the album entitled "Hope" Its a really fun catchy and positive feeling song with some cool piano. Kinda reminiscent of the upbeat songs on the Curious George Soundtrack. Another upbeater on the CD is his song "If I Had Eyes" which I think is kinda his first "single" on the CD, sorta gaining the most attention. Of all the songs on the CD I think my personal favs are the first three songs I mentioned, a cool rolling yet pensive song called "What You Thought You Need" and another total chill out, heartfelt, beach bum song called "Adrift". It really is an album you can listen to all the way through, but it is also an album that is BEST if listened all the way through, like one continuous music session ya know?

I hereby declare this CD great driving music, like a good long road trip, you just pop it in and relax and let it carry you. Thats my impression. I dig it.

But let me also tell you why the CD itself is stellar. It never fails me to want to BE him, because he seems to live the coolest life. In case you don't know a whole lot about him he is a professional surfer, surf film maker, musician, lives on the beach in Hawaii, and is a pretty big environmentalist like a lot of surfers. He started a festival each year called the Kokua Festival in hawaii which is a concert that raises money to protect our beaches and oceans from pollution.

What struck me as awesome was that this CD was recorded using 100% Solar energy! That's so cool, just because he did it, and in addition to that, he produces his CD in a case made of recycled paper, and participates in a group called "1% for the Planet" which donates 1% of the profits to more environmental efforts"

So for many reasons this CD is awesome. The music, the production, he just rocks. If you are a fan of him, get the cd yo

Empowered by the Spirit

2008-02-17T14:30:00.000-08:00

I just got back from a stellar retreat in Columbia, SC entitled "Empowered by the Spirit." It was a retreat put on by the Diocese of Charleston for Catholic college students in South Carolina. There were about 80 students that attended from colleges comprised of University of South Carolina, The Citadel, Winthrop University, Coastal Carolina, Furman University, Converse College, a few community/tech colleges, and of course, dear ol' Clemson.
There was a lot of good stuff to talk about all weekend, but if I had to sum up the message in a sentence it would be as follows. How the holy spirit can move our generation to engage our faith in a new, ever growing way while maintaining our church roots and tradition. It is often taken to be by Catholics and Non-Catholics that a real faith and tradition cannot move together, but really the two compliment each other in such a beautiful way. We had a talk over the weekend about generations of people, from the Boomers, to Generation X, to now, "nexters" or "millennials." There is a great shift in the way people think and feel, and our generation now is actually a very active and kind generation. I totally feel that in all the new issues out there in the world, younger people getting involved more in elections and groups. However it is integral to remember that we must always seek to contribute to the world in the name of Christ, being ambassadors.
It's definitely a new age, even in Christianity. So many of us consider ourselves to be "Spiritual" and not "Religious." But we must seek both. Thats where a great integration of Catholic tradition and an engaged modern world became a focal point of the weekend. Religion gives spirituality roots that can withstand time, be firm, and something to fall back on, and spirituality allows us to expand on the ideas and beliefs we encounter in religion and truly make them personal. Both Spirituality and Religion build on each other, filling in each others cracks, whatever that religion happens to be. It builds our moral conscience, something often ignored, but so important in developing our individuality and how we view ourselves and God.

So some cool stuff happened on the weekend, and I was totally satisfied how mature the retreat was, geared toward college kids. College ministry rocks now, sorry high school.

Peace n Love

Day Three: The Last Stop...

2008-02-13T14:19:00.000-08:00

Well here I am back in ol' Clemson, SC.
What a tour man.
I woke up this morning somewhere I had no clue I was. The days all run together, show after show...
I got me a little spot of breakfast about 8am in the hotel lobby and the band packed it up and hit the road. Our first concert was in a town called Greer. We played to a huge audience, and afterwards were greeted by screaming fans. I know right? I had to break some more high schoolers hearts, as we had places to go. Beckoned by the road. We drove for a while, continued watching some Batman Begins on the bus, and got a spot of lunch at Schlotzky's Deli (Funny name, serious sandwich).
We arrived at the next school and played a super packed auditorium. Seriously though, I think we sold out at this one. The stakes were high, we came through with a bang. The last show finished in bold, cutting edge fashion. We revolutionized music, I guess you could say.
I don't really have any feeling in my fingertips at this moment. I am quite calloused or blistered. We take it to the extreme. Our setlist of the tour consisted of these songs, usually mixed up between shows, and give or take a few depending on how long we played.

Summertime
Time After Time
Malaguena
Fast Forward
Black Orpheus
Blue Bossa
Sister Sadie
Count Bubba
I Said No (Vocal) We had our lovely singer Molly accompany us on the tour to sing some tunes)
The Very Thought of You (Vocal)
Sway (Vocal)
Moanin'

I think there are like 2 more or so, but I can't recall what they are right now.
So normalcy has returned, the rockstar stint may be on hold, but it will resurface when the timing is right.

Peace
E

Day 2: Sex, Drugs, and Rock n' Roll...Well the last one only I assure

2008-02-12T17:49:00.000-08:00

So today was as you could have predicted, rockstar.

We woke up bright an early, actually dark and early, 5:45am. We got a nice continental breakfast in out hotel lobby then hit the road by 7:00. We took about an hour and a half bus ride to Rock Hill, SC to Rock Hill high school, which is north of Columbia, in north central south carolina. We played a concert in the music room, which was quite large to around 100 students. It was very cool, very good audience reaction. We kicked it straight off that gig, we had places to go, people to see, road to follow.

We hit the road, watched some Irobot in the bus, We hit up a little Mcd's before going into the next place, Fort Mill High School. The school was quite large and we played on their stage in the auditorium, nice and set up for us. It was quite rockstar. The shows are really tight and fun, we played great today. I got a rockstar swoon over me as a few wannabe groupies came harassing me afterwards. They thought the "cello" guy was cool.
But hey, the rockstar life is tough, I gotta break some hearts, I'm a musician baby, not a lover. The road calls.
After a catered lunch of Mcalister's Deli by the high school, we rolled out, finished Irobot, and hit up the next school about 20 minuted away, Northwester High School. We played in their very nice auditorium(surprisingly cool ambience for a high school, Linganore should get tips) and we played to a large crowd, about 400 or so. Another great response and a good way to end the day. The trip is actually supposed to be a way to recruit for the program at Clemson and just to put on a show, so our mission was fulfilled.
We took about an hour and a half bus ride to where we are now at our Holiday Inn Express. We hit up a fresh fancy restaurant called California Dreamin that for some reason was modeled after a castle. I had shrimp and pasta. So now I am back at the hotel, once again bloggin doin homework and watching guitar hero go mad. Oh, and I am listening to this, do yourself a favor and follow this link, click listen to mp3 and follow along.

Home stretch tomorrow my fans.
E

http://shooby.com/lyrics/stoutHeartedMen.html

Day 1: The Saga Begins

2008-02-11T18:02:00.000-08:00

Day one is over, as I rewind here in the Wingate Inn.

We departed at 9:30 this morning for about a 2 and 1/2 drive. You do the math when we arrived in Columbia. It all started out pretty fresh. We made a first stop at Columbiana Mall to get some food at a food court. I got chinese, like any rockstar. I also got my nails polished! Not rockstar...well maybe? I was walking through the mall with some fellow mates when a man at a makeup kiosk approached me and showed me a product that would take the lines away from my fingernails. He did this little process of scraping on my thumbnail, and lo and behold my nail was beautiful! It honestly made a significant difference, the luster that is now on my thumb. Needless to say I was quite astonished and he took this to think I was going to buy the product (for someone of course...). I had no intention too. So he sortof hunted me down the rest of the time, I avoided him.
We ate lunch at the mall, then off to the first gig, Columbia High School. We put on a mediocre show and it was a little strange. But it was fun and we packed up quickly and bolted to the next school about 20 mins down the road. This school, Irmo High School was enormous and obviously very very well funded, the opposite of the other school if you catch the drift. They had a huge food court, great facilities and lots of fields. This time it was a little different. We put on a show for the kids in the music classes then had a cool teaching session to their jazz band. We played some of their songs to show how we approach the music for the first time, and they got an inside look on how we do things, so we could teach them hands on. It was pretty cool.
So after a long hot afternoon playing music, my hands were dead, so we came back to the hotel, 4th floor. We got settled then went and got some chow next door. It was called Bailey's sports bar, had big tv's, I got ribs, and we chillaxed. We came back and I hopped into the whirlpool in a pair of corduroys because I failed to remember swim suit. Thats sorta rockstar. I got out and now I sit here blogging in the lobby area. The rest of the band is here too playing Guitar Hero on the tv in the lobby. What a day! cool beans it really is, and tomorrow is when it gets crazy!
Keep ya posted

E

With The Band...

2008-02-11T06:20:00.001-08:00

I am sitting here on a charter bus in the Brooks Performing Arts Center parking lot. That is the home building of the University performing arts department. I am moments away from departing on tour.

This is my tour journal.

I want to seize the opportunity to "blog from the road" cause I don't know if I will ever go on another "tour." So I'm gonna try and sound serious. My bass is packed, amp, clothing items, some homework (not rockstar), and I'm ready. I will be packin' the upright bass and an ampeg combo which will be miced (miked? micd? miced looks weird) So we are ready to roll. We are driving to Columbia,SC to play two high schools this afternoon. Columbia HS and Irmo HS. It is about a 2 1/2 hour ride. I plan on readin, watchin a movie, chillin.

Dawg I'm on tour, with the band. Cool beans.

Keep ya posted,
EP

Chef Leroi

2008-02-09T14:39:00.000-08:00

Let me tell you about someone who brightens my day.
His name is Chef Leroi. Chef Leroi works in Schilleter Dining Hall, a dining hall I frequent for the majority of my meals. Now it is definitely a stretch, in fact usually false, to say that the people that cook the food in the dining halls are "chefs."
Except Leroi. Leroi works in a little section where they have the "main course" of the day, usually a meat. There are also a few other stations like the salad bar, pizza, and more "normal" meals sort of. Most of the people that work at the other places just cook it, put it on the plate for you without really saying anything.
Leroi makes me happy. When I go to receive a helping from him, for a moment I feel like I am in a fancy restaurant. He takes his job in a very confident manner. I hand him my plate and he greets me with a very warm and PROFESSIONAL "Hello, how are you doing today?" I say "great, how about yourself?" He replies "Excellent thank you."
By this time he has put my food on the plate and my favorite part of it, he says something to the degree of "Enjoy your meal, please come again."
Now in my mind I think, well yes I will most likely come again since I usually get about 15 of my 21 meals of the week here, but then I think, yes, it will be my pleasure to come back again!

It's all in the delivery, and the manner that he serves. His food is his craft and he enjoys it, which shows, and I enjoy it.
I am blogging in the dining hall now after he served me, and this time I got to talk with him a little because it took a few minutes for him to cook it up before it was ready. I was just watching and fascinated with how he puts lots of spices and how hes works with the food. He puts effort into cooking and is very good at it. He made mention that it will be ready shortly so I said that it is enjoyable just to watch.
He started saying how much he enjoys cooking. He recommended that I get into it more. He spoke of how cooking relaxes him, like music, and after a long day he likes to go home and cook something. The spices and aromas are relaxing. He said that cooking is very addicting when you start.
I really got a sense of cooking as his passion. I can definitely tell when I get my food. Even if he is just a chef at our dining hall, I'm glad he is here because he brings taste, culture, to a place that lacks a lot. A dining hall in South Carolina. I try to make it a habit to get my food from Leroi when I come into the dining hall, because it never fails to brighten my day!

Amuse-ic

2008-01-30T10:21:00.000-08:00

Seldom do albums come into production that I find like 100% awesome. In short, my favorite cds of all time. And I am not talking about like the albums that we like one or two songs on it. Everyone has a different opinion on which albums make their list. I was contemplating which albums earn the name of "worthy" in my book. My criteria are as follows. EVERY song must be good, It has to have that ability to listen to the whole cd all through without skipping tracks. It also has to have some affect on my life. Not like my life is "defined" by just a song, but different music conjures emotions, and some doesn't. The list of cds that if someone asked you "if you where stranded on an island, which would you bring?" Those are pretty big ideas of a good music collection. Here are my personal "bests" over the ages, just to get a little taste of me. Comment on your own! or what I missed. Holla!

In no particular order:
Braddigan: Watchfires (The Captive is workin up there, too young)
Coldplay: Parachutes
Counting Crows: August and Everything After
Dashboard Confessional: MTV Unplugged v2.0
David Crowder Band: Illuminate
Death Cab For Cutie: Transatlanticism
Dispatch: Silent Steeples
Graham Davis: Facedown
Judd and Maggie: Concentrate, and Subjects
Mat Kearney: Nothing Left to Lose
The Postal Service: Give Up
Relient K: Two Lefts Don't Make a Right but Three Do
Rich Price: Miles From Anywhere
Switchfoot: The Beautiful Letdown
Thrice: The Illusion of Safety
N'Sync: No Strings Attached

Do ya believe it?

2008-01-27T14:31:00.000-08:00

This Friday I had the opportunity to see yet another presidential candidate in action here at the ol' University of Clemson. Barack Obama came and hosted a rally. It was similar to Huckabee's in that it contained little "hard fact" and more just getting hyped. Ya know...a rally. It was definitely interesting, all the stuff that went into it. There were gigantic lines, metal detectors, police, lots of people and music. Its strange, the further towards the election we get, the less politics are actually talked. Nonetheless it was fun and it was a good experience to feel what one of those rallies I've only ever seen on tv really feel like. My minds in a different place of course than my rather indifferent outlook of the past ones.
Obama's big rallying cry is idealistic hope and change. His slogan is "Change we can believe in." Basically things are broken and need fixing, he's your man. You know the issues, I just report the pics. Here are some from the rally.

My view of the rally pre-crowd entrance. The lines were absurd so I got a good spot instead on this hill.

Barack on Stage, speakin it

Armed Men on the roofs of surrounding building

More Speakin by Obama

Views to my left and right. Big crowds

So here's a glimpse into the rally. Overall my day that day was quite grim in reality. And political. A rally basically about how things in politics are bad now, and later that night I attended the kickoff to a 1000 college and US effort for global warming called Focus the Nation. That was kinda interesting too, no blog for it though. So our political system and ecosystem are both in turmoil. Cool. Well ok, I generally don't have an all too cynical view of the world, but of course there are many things that can change, like at any point in the world timeline. Lets all do out part eh?

Peace n Geese, Evan

Recap: Freefall

2008-01-23T14:04:00.000-08:00

The pictures will serve as your guide through the weekend at Summit Lake. It was blessed yes quite much. Please enjoy

The room of the week. Also the rockspot. Got the boathouse this time. nice

Snow Tubing in the single digits, yes cold much

At Lasttttt

2008-01-15T14:14:00.000-08:00

Mike Huckabee will be coming here to Clemson on January 17, two days before the South Carolina Primary. This is going to be very exciting I am def there. Because not only will we get to see yet another presidential candidate (John Edwards came last week) but Huck will be accompanied by the one and only......

Yesssss I will be in the sameee room as Chuck Norris. How powerful will I be.
Huckabee will also be coming with Ric Flair as a follower. Ric Flair was a wrestler for WWE.

To be honest, I think Hucks campaign has gotten a bit overboard on the Character thing. It is seeming quite showish now, despite how awesome Chuck Norris is, and I think its started to show some un-seriousness which he should be focusing in on in this point in the race. Hopefully when he comes it will be a presidential campaign speech, not a circus act.
Keep watch of the primaries, especially South Carolina, because its going to be an important one. Whichever republican candidate wins gets all the delegates at the National Convention. And pretty much only whomever finishes in the top two candidates will continue in the race. Exciting!

Hotels

2008-01-10T14:47:00.000-08:00

The showers on the floor of my dorm smell like a hotel room. You know that distinct smell that hotels have? It always pleases me in a sort of reminiscent sort of way. It reminds me of something very comforting and enjoyable to me. That is staying in a hotel. I really enjoy staying in hotels. And not just any hotels, but those really cool and big hotels that have lots of stuff in them, like pools and restaurants and arcades. I love that feeling of wandering aimlessly throughout a hotel, through all the endless corridors. I really like it when you have a prolonged stay and the hotel sort of becomes your home and you get really familiar with everything. Its usually best while on vacation. So when I wake up in the morning to take a shower, I always think of this vivid moment, and I always imagine me living in a hotel instead of a dorm.

W.W.J.D.

2008-01-08T06:48:00.000-08:00

I'll be honest here. I've always thought all the wristbands and colorful t-shirts and bubble lettered designs bearing the acronym WWJD (What Would Jesus Do), were, well...kinda cheesy. Not in like any way that makes them "bad" or "ineffective," but just to be honest, I would have never really "worn" it.

But for some reason this kinda cliche and adopted Christian motto has sort of struck me lately. Not in a fashion sense sort of way, I'm sorry to say, but the message that I've always kinda shrugged off as being that "yes true", but kinda corny saying, has really made me think about it's real meaning.

Even if we don't want to sport all the colorful merch, the message and really those four simple words describe a simple yet powerful idea. And that is to truly discern with every decision we make, is this what Jesus WOULD do? As Christians we are called to be LIKE Christ. Made in his image, we are to follow his example, despite all our infinite shortcomings. We are called by him to do what Jesus did. Not to die on a cross, thats already done for us, but to die in ourselves so that we may live in him.

Philippians 1:21
For to me life is Christ, and death is gain

Every little decision we make that has any effect on the way our lives are going needs to be made by first looking to the God who made us, to show us how He would do it. There is no way we can ever make the right decision by ourself, it will amount to nothing except selfish desires if we are the ones controlling our own future, steering our own wheel.

I still won't wear a rainbow t-shirt, sorry.
But I will recognize that if we are to call ourselves Christians, or to have Jesus in our hearts, we need to show it in our lives. We need really to ask ourselves, What would Jesus do?

What Christmas is REALLY all About

2007-12-24T08:49:00.000-08:00

Enjoy the show!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DKk9rv2hUfA

Merry Christmas to All!!

Wintry Reminiscences...

2007-12-15T11:43:00.000-08:00

God bless the animals, it's Christmas time!

2007-12-14T10:58:00.000-08:00

St. Francis of Assisi was the saint whose name I chose at Confirmation. He is an excellent role model despite him being dead 800 years or so, but one thing often easily recognized about him was his love for animals and nature. This is an article about him and Christmas, its very interesting and gets you in the right holiday spirit. By the way, St. Francis also originated the idea of a creche as something we put up. wordd

St. Francis, Creatures and Christmas
by Friar Jack Wintz, O.F.M.

Artists often depict St. Francis surrounded by animals, birds and flowers as if they all make up one happy family. This is not just a hyped-up picture of the saint created by sentimental nature-lovers. It captures something very true and profound about the saint. Francis' earliest biographers, who wrote during his lifetime, tell of his preaching to birds and his encounters with a variety of creatures, as well as his addressing them as “Sister Lark,” “Sister Cricket,” “Brother Rabbit,” and so forth.

It is, moreover, an accepted historical fact that St. Francis is the author of the Canticle of Brother Sun, sometimes known as the Canticle of the Creatures. What this song and his many interactions with animals tell us about St. Francis is that he did not perceive himself as isolated from other creatures. Obviously, he simply assumed that all creatures—not only humans—form one family of creation. Even when we pray, it’s good to invite the other creatures to praise God with us, just as Francis did in his canticle: “All praise be yours, my Lord, through all that you have made—first of all, through my lord Brother Sun...through Sister Moon and Stars…through Brother Wind...and Sister Water…and Brother Fire…and Sister Earth, our mother.”

This familial sense of oneness with all creatures is closely linked with St. Francis’ love for the feast of Christmas and his understanding of the Incarnation. In Francis’ mind and heart, if God really entered the family of creation, this event should really revolutionize our thinking about the world. Not only did the Incarnation bestow a great value on humans, but it also blessed and enriched other creatures as well. The whole fabric of creation took on an elevated dignity and meaning.

Reenacting Bethlehem

This is why the feast of Christmas meant so much to Francis and why he wanted the whole of creation to be part of the celebration. St. Francis himself initiated the popular tradition of the Christmas crèche. The custom goes back to the year 1223, when Francis invited the townspeople of Greccio, Italy, to gather at a cave outside the village to reenact the first Christmas.

St. Francis asked the people to bring along an ox and an ass and sheep and real straw in a real manger. Francis wanted to have animals around the crib because he had a deep sense that these creatures belong there because they too were deeply affected by the birth of Christ and his saving love. By right, all creatures should participate in the celebration of Christmas.

Including creatures in the festivities

St. Francis’ biographers give us additional evidence that he strongly believed that all creatures should share in the Christmas blessing. These writers inform us that St. Francis wanted the emperor to ask all citizens to scatter grain along the roads on Christmas Day so that the birds and other animals would have plenty to eat. The beasts in the stables, too, should be given richer fare on the feast of Christmas and even the walls should be rubbed with food.

If St. Francis were alive today, I believe he would encourage us to include more and more creatures in our celebration of Christmas. If we have pets, he might suggest that we give Brother Dog or Sister Cat a special treat on Christmas Day—or at least that we toss a few more sunflower seeds on the bird feeder!

in its original format:
http://americancatholic.org/e-News/FriarJack/fj120507.asp

The Canticle of the Creatures

Most High, all-powerful, good Lord,
all praise is yours, all glory, all honor,
and all blessing.
To you, alone, Most High, do they belong.
No mortal lips are worthy to pronounce your name.
All praise be yours, my Lord,
through all you have made,
and first my lord Brother Sun, who brings the day;
and through whom you give us light.
How beautiful is he, how radiant in all his splendor;
Of you, Most High, he bears the likeness.
All Praise be yours, my Lord, through Sister Moon
and the stars; in the heavens you have made them,
bright, and precious, and fair.
All praise be yours, my Lord,
through Brothers wind and air, and fair and stormy,
all the weather's moods,
by which you cherish all that you have made.
All praise be yours, my Lord, through Sister Water,
so useful, humble, precious and pure.
All praise be yours, my Lord, through Brother Fire,
through whom you brighten up the night.
How beautiful is he, how cheerful!
Full of power and strength.
All praise be yours, my Lord, through our Sister
Mother Earth, who sustains us and governs us,
and produces various fruits with colored flowers
and herbs.
All praise be yours, my Lord,
through those who grant pardon for love of you;
through those who endure sickness and trial.
Happy are those who endure in peace,
By You, Most High, they will be crowned.
All praise be yours, my Lord, through Sister Death,
From whose embrace no mortal can escape.
Woe to those who die in mortal sin!
Happy those she finds doing your will!
The second death can do them no harm.
Praise and bless my Lord, and give him thanks
And serve him with great humility.

"Feelings in Red Blue Yellow Black and White"

2007-12-10T09:46:00.000-08:00

My studying often leads me into drawing things on paint now. After many math problems, I draw what is on my mind. These are photographic images I think.

Trying Times...

2007-12-06T10:19:00.000-08:00

College Freshman: It is that time, and you know what time I'm talking about. It's exam time. And as we embark upon our quest for Academia Aptitude, I only want you all thinking one thing.

A's on your exams. And the beach. Do well. I probably would do better if I weren't drawing these pictures in the middle of my studying.

Good Idea!

2007-12-04T14:27:00.000-08:00

The Nooma videos are sweet dog. Heres the link, in addition to what paul has already said.

http://noomatic.blogspot.com/

Instructions:

1. Watch one
2. Think. Pray.
3. Repeat steps 1-2 for them all

How Divine!

2007-12-03T19:42:00.001-08:00

We certainly do have a divine God. And when we pronounce him divine, we do not mean quite like a divine meal. Well almost not if you may catch my drift, but we call Jesus divine in being God, not just The big God's person he sent to earth. He sent his Son, and his Son shares equally in the Splendor with the big God and the Holy Spirit, in the Holy trinity. No matter where you are in your walk with Christ, so seemingly fundamental this concept of divinity might be, its always got the power to knock you off your feet. The fact that God should send his Son for us, and his Son should so also be God, here on earth in physical form, for us people to see, hear, and touch! This is always gonna blow your mind no matter how holy you think you are, because when you are thinking about such a revolutionary thing, God in flesh on earth, we can never begin to wrap our minds around it. And if we could ever completely understand it, then that wouldn't make God so big after all. Some words of wisdom from our early church brothers, because they said in in ways that just make it awesome.

St. Clement of Alexandria 190AD

"Despised as to appearance but in reality adored, [Jesus is] the expiator, the Savior, the soother, the divine Word, he that is quite evidently true God, he that is put on a level with the Lord of the universe because he was his Son"

St Gregory

"There is one God, the Father of the living Word, who is his subsistent wisdom and power and eternal image: perfect begetter of the perfect begotten, Father of the only-begotten Son. There is one Lord, only of the only, God of God, image and likeness of deity, efficient Word, wisdom comprehensive of the constitution of all things, and power formative of the whole creation, true Son of true Father, invisible of invisible, and incorruptible of incorruptible, and immortal of immortal and eternal of eternal. . . . And thus neither was the Son ever wanting to the Father, nor the Spirit to the Son; but without variation and without change, the same Trinity abides ever" (Declaration of Faith [A.D. 265]).

So close

2007-11-17T20:27:00.000-08:00

We lost to Boston College today, in football that is. The score was 20-17 and it came down to us missing a 54 yard field goal. Close game. Lets go sportsmanship. Whoo hoo hoo

Strike!!!!!!

2007-11-09T20:19:00.000-08:00

The Writers Guild of America has gone on strike!! Because of disagreements about contract renewal, the union of writers for tv shows are going on strike. As in not writing tv shows scripts any longer. That is incredible! Many shows including our favorites like the Office and Lost and others will not be making any new episodes, as well as the late night shows, like David Letterman, Stephen Colbert and Jon Stewart. That means the show hosts can either wing it or show repeats.
But reality shows on the other hand are not unionized, so expect a massive attack of new episodes of those, as if there aren't enough as there are already. It could be months people.

The smarter of us will take this opportunity to read more books...

2007-11-08T11:37:00.000-08:00

It Don't Mean a Thing

2007-11-06T08:01:00.000-08:00

If it ain't got that swing.

Tonight is the first Clemson University Jazz Ensemble Concert. I am excited, it is the first concert I have ever done playing upright bass, and I have successfully made the shift to doing this entire concert on it. it's gonna be a doozy. Here is our set list,its not too terribly long. Theyre all jazz and swing big band standards, with a guest vocalist on two of them, songs by Ella Fitzgerald

Act One:

1) Time After Time

2) Sister Sadie

3) The Very Thought of You(Vocal)

4) Count Bubba

Act Two:

1) Malaguena

3) I Said No (Vocal)

4) Blue Bossa

5) I Concentrate on You

6) Azulito

Remember Remember the Fifth of November

2007-11-05T05:46:00.000-08:00

Thats it...just remember it

Election

2007-11-03T07:31:00.000-07:00

Ron Paul, republican candidate came to speak at my school yesterday, so I took up the opportunity to see this, as it was an entirely new experience for me. I've never been very political, and I know thats a weak thing to say, and I think I should be more so. I think it's related to my rather limited political knowledge. Anyways, Ron Paul spoke for about an hour, outlining a number of points, of which I would agree with some and disagree with others. His ideas

1) Bring all troops back home, and by all, all as in the ones in every country in the world, including Europe, Korea, Columbia and South America, Middle East, or everywhere. He believes this will increase our security at home and greatly decrease our national debt for occupying all the troops.

2) Lower taxes and income taxes. Keep the money working americans earn in their own pockets.

3)Crackdown on border control and immigration. End Birthright Citizenship, physically secure borders, no welfare for aliens, enforce Visa rules.

4)Health freedom, remember Ron Paul is a Physician. It's a personal choice what you put in your body. End required vaccinations and immunizations

5)Pro life, he was an OB/GYN and is strong believer of the protection of life at conception

6)Limit governments ability to collect and store citizens personal information. He opposes the Patriot Act

7) Reform Social Security. Social Security for Americans only, so only those who pay into the system will receive benefits. Repeal all taxes on social security benefits. Make sure money in Social Security is only used for social security. Reduce government spending

8) Less gun control, allow more people to own guns and have them present in more situations

Thats a recap of Ron Paul, check him out for yourself, as well as all the other candidates if you plan on voting. Make your own opinions, I have mine, we can all be happy and free

Love

All Hallows Eve

2007-10-31T10:47:00.000-07:00

Halloween is super I think. Most of us will agree. However halloween has gotten a wrap that it is wrapped up in the devil, or some satanic worship, but in reality, Halloween has no roots in any evil at all. I learned this in my Western Civilization Class the other day, and it was really cool, in fact theres a whole lot of other familiar holidays that have the same sort of history as Halloween, which you will soon discover if you don't already know.

The story begins in the late 800's AD. Halloween, or what it came to be named as, originally is rooted in Celtic regions of now Ireland, and Northern British Isles. The Celts at this time were a pagan culture, or non monotheistic. The day October 31 marked a period for the Celts where the year was split into two parts, the light part of the year and the dark part, speaking in terms of the weather outside. It was the end of the summer and harvest time, and the beginning of the cold dark winter. This was also their calendar new year. They believed that at this time, the boundaries between the living and the dead became blurred, and the spirits of the dead returned to the earth. This day was called Samhain, October 31. The spirits were considered very tricky and would play tricks on the farmers harvest, and if you got a frosting over your crops, you know they got you. In order to prevent the ghosts from playing a joke on you, one could leave them treats outside to eat, where we get the giving of candy. Another was to scare them away. Guess how they did this? They carved...turnips! Pumpkins were not used until after Columbus.

So how did "Samhain" become Halloween?
Well during this time, Christianity was began to grow throughout Europe. In Ireland there were a number of Monks and monasteries who hoped to convert the pagans. However, the monks particularly there in Ireland began a movement that was completely new of any of the other missionaries. Now pagans were extremely simple people and very rooted in their ancient traditions and beliefs, so it would have been impossible for the missionaries to just "change them". So instead of changing their way of life, they found a way to meld their own traditions with Christianity. This movement was called Synchrotism. November 1 had become known as the Christian holiday All Saint's day. So when the Irish monks came in, instead of abolishing the pagan holiday, they just looked at it in a different way. They told the pagans that these weren't just strange spirits but Saints. And since All Saint's Day is the day after they just changed the name to... Halloween, mean "All Hallow's Eve", All Hallow's Day being another name for All Saint's Day. The monks liked the holiday, they thought it was fun for the kids, so the whole candy and stuff just stayed. And the rest is history!

We are a Monarchy?

2007-10-29T13:34:00.000-07:00

We seem to be in an age where no one can be wrong, offended, or disputed. Everyone is "right" to some degree. Is this how we as Christians should solely live by? In a country that embraces democracy, and rightly so in political contexts, do we often lose sight of our absolute monarch, Jesus? There seems no objection that Christianity is not true. Nor any objection to any other religion of the world. But can we search within ourselves to acknowledge with our full heart and soul that it is the truth?

Is this shallow? Lacking a sense of equality, tolerance, or open-mindedness? No. As humans there must be tolerance between everyone, and even if your viewpoints are entirely different, it is most necessary to at least have respect. I was reading this neat article below, which I encourage everyone to check out, it displays individuality as christians without sacrificing the dignity of what people believe, a value I think we can all do with a little more.

http://www.catholiceducation.org/articles/apologetics/ap0228.htm

The Exorcist

2007-10-27T18:38:00.000-07:00

It's almost Halloween! And no, not the movie,The Exorcist but little thought about is that Exorcisms are a real practice, even today, though very rare. We've all read it in the bible, but lets look at one of the cases, just for kicks since it's Halloween, from The Gospel of Luke 4: 31-37

Jesus then went down to Capernaum, a town of Galilee. He taught them on the sabbath, and they were astonished at his teaching because he spoke with authority. In the synagogue there was a man with the spirit of an unclean demon, and he cried out in a loud voice, "Ha! What have you tp do with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are-the Holy One of God! Jesus rebuked him and said "Be quiet! Come out of him!" Then the demon threw the man down in front of them and came out of him without doing any harm. They were all amazed and said to one another, "What is there about His word? For with authority and power he commands the unclean spirits, and they come out." And the news of him spread everywhere in the surrounding region.

This scripture says a lot of interesting stuff in it, I digress before I say anything else about exorcisms.

Why does Jesus command the demons to be silent when they say he is the Son of God? Whats untrue about that? There could be a couple reasons really. One could be that it was to demonstrate his authority over the spirit world, he is of course God, and the other was of course, only the devil. Another possibility was that Luke when writing had in mind the "messianic secret" that was originally developed in Marks Gospel. The messianic secret being that Jesus did not want his identity known before he is able to invest the title Messiah with its true meaning. Certainly it wasn't going to be revealed through the devil... A final reason may be that it was a comment on the profession of faith vs. faith itself. Whats that mean? I mean that demons can articulate the language of faith (remember the devil quoting scripture to Jesus earlier during the 40 days in the desert?), however they have no faith. They do not have the personal relationship with Christ. Them saying he is the messiah would be a distortion fro the true meaning of Messiah. When a demon proclaims his name, its not meant to be good news...

Back to the title. Exorcisms are an interesting thing, and one of those things that just kind of goes under the radar. But just as demons possessed back then, why shouldn't it be possible now? Well true, not too common, in fact I'm sure most people are not familiar with even one case in history, but they have happened. How? I was watching a little of the Exorcist on tv earlier and it just sparked my curiosity so I figure I'd check it out. Where to go for my liturgical info? I just opened up the Catholic Catechism and found it out, heres what it says

CCC 1673
When the Church asks publicly and authoritatively in the name of Jesus Christ that a person or object be protected against the power of the Evil One and withdrawn from his dominion, is is called exorcism. Jesus performed exorcisms and from him the Church has received the power and office of exorcizing. In a simple form, exorcism is performed at the celebration of Baptism. The solemn exorcism, called a "major exorcism" can be performed only by a priest and with the permission of the bishop. The priest must proceed with prudence, strictly observing the rules established by the Church. Exorcism is directed at the expulsion of demons or to the liberation from demonic possession through the spiritual authority which Jesus entrusted to His Church. Illness, especially psychological illness, is a very different matter, treating this is the concern of medical science. Therefore, before an exorcism is performed, it is important to ascertain that one is dealing with the presence of the Evil One, and not an illness.

So that's pretty cool, it gives us a nice base to gain some understanding. It is important to understand the difference often seen as this superstition exorcism and the real christian exorcism. So lets look even deeper. The catechism tells us how priests are given this "power and office" to do the exorcizing. Jesus gave this same power to his disciples (Matthew 10:1, Mark 6:7, Luke 9:1). Through Apostolic Succession our priests are our living apostles, granted the same power given to the disciples, to cast out demons in the name of Christ. as we see from the fact that the Apostles themselves were not always successful in their exorcisms: certain kinds of spirits, as Christ explained, could only be cast out by prayer and fasting (Matthew 17:15, 20; Mark 9:27-28; Luke 9:40). In other words the success of exorcism by Christians, in Christ's name, is subject to the same general conditions on which both the efficacy of prayer and the use of charismatic power depend. Yet conspicuous success was promised (Mark 16:17). St. Paul (Acts 16:18; 19:12), and, no doubt, the other Apostles and Disciples, made use of regularly, as occasion arose, of their exorcising power, and the Church has continued to do so uninterruptedly to the present day.

Possession? How could somebody actually get possessed here on earth? According to belief, demons, or fallen angels, retain their natural power,and their ability to take material things here on earth and use it to their wicked ways. That seems like a good definition of why we can say the devil does have his material temptation here on earth, even amidst all that is Holy. Although this power is limited of course by Divine Providence, so the devil won't be taking over the earth. Whew, that would have sucked. So this being said, a demonic infestation, possession is a natural liability, within limits. And we can say that a human possession is within the limits since really all an exorcism is is a prayer to God, in the name of his Church.

In the fourth council of Carthage, year 398, prescribes the Rites of Exorcism, to the way still used today since all those years.
The way an exorcism usually goes down is like so..

Possession is not lightly to be taken for granted. Each case is to be carefully examined and great caution to be used in distinguishing genuine possession from certain forms of disease.(CCC says that, a person can't just be psychologically sick)

He should avoid in the a course of the rite everything that seems like superstition, and should leave the medical aspects of the case to qualified physicians.

He should admonish the possessed, in so far as the latter is capable, to dispose himself for the exorcism by prayer, fasting, confession, and communion, and while the rite is in progress to excite within himself a lively faith in God's goodness, and a patient resignation to His holy will.

The exorcism should take place in the Church or some other sacred place, if convenient; but if on account of sickness or for other legitimate reasons, it takes place in a private house, witnesses (preferably members of the family) should be present: this is specially enjoined, as a measure of precaution, in case the subject is a woman.

All idle and curious questioning of the demon should be avoided, and the prayers and aspirations should be read with great faith, humility, and fervor, and with a consciousness of power and authority.

The Blessed Sacrament is not to be brought near the body of the obsessed during exorcism for fear of possible irreverence; but the crucifix, holy water, and, where available, relics of the saints are to be employed.

If expulsion of the evil spirit is not obtained at once, the rite should be repeated, if need be, several times.

The exorcist should be vested in surplice, and violet stole.

Exorcisms decoded, Happy halloween y'all

Scientists Theorize What Would Happen If They Touched A Cloud

2007-10-24T11:47:00.000-07:00

CHICAGO—A group of scientists from the University of Chicago raised new questions during an international nephology conference held there Tuesday, speculating what would happen if physical contact were initiated with a cloud, the weather phenomenon described as a visible mass of condensed water suspended in the troposphere.

"It might feel like a marshmallow or like cotton candy," said geophysical sciences department chair Michael J. Foote, Ph.D., who in July received a $10 million National Science Foundation grant to analyze the effects of clouds on the human somatosensory system. "We know that it might be sticky. But it could also feel fluffy or creamy."

While Foote claimed that a person would likely attain instantaneous unconsciousness if laid horizontally atop a cumulus cloud, opposing scientists argued that a person would fall right through.

2007-10-19T10:44:00.000-07:00

Moving forward in faith during war

2007-10-17T14:03:00.000-07:00

Pope Benedict just recently named a Cardinal to war torn Iraq, along with 22 other new Cardinals. Patriarch Emmanuel-Karim Delly,80 was named to this title today. Delly has been a standout voice throughout not only the Christian minority but all Iraqis foregoing these times. Cardinal Delly reflects that these are times where Iraqis must be together as he states "We are all one family, an Iraqi family." At age 80 he will not be participating in the conclave for a new pope.

Cardinal Delly was ordained a Priest in 1952, receiving a masters degree in Philosophy and a doctorate in theology and another in canon law.
We can all hope that his voice will be one for the voiceless of Iraq now and his presence will be one of peace.

http://www.catholicnews.com/data/stories/cns/0705931.htm

The Shade of Poison Trees

2007-10-06T19:30:00.000-07:00

A little music update and critique.

Dashboard Confessional, aka Chris Carrabba incorporated

, just released his next cd entitled The Shade of Poison Trees. I bought it via itunes. Now let me tell you that his last cd Dusk and Summer was alright but nothing impressive, and he seemed to continue his departure in a different direction, starting with A Mark, a Mission, a Brand, A Scar, then taken by his earlier cd's, i.e I am referring to him playing less songs in open D tuning, i.e. Screaming Infidelities, and in general it was more experimental with ,some good tracks on it though.

Well I was pleasantly surprised with The Shade of Poison Trees, because he seems to have gotten back to his roots and done a few open D songs, for the traditional dashboard fans, which I think most are. Overall I think the Cd is awesome, lots of awesome, interesting and catchy songs, in that dashboard style of course, meaning really emo. But its very good, and I am glad I have purchased it, as if you are considering it, I would say, hey...go ahead

Astrodon Johnstoni, Maryland pride back in ancient times

2007-10-04T18:50:00.000-07:00

Maryland state bird: the Oriole
Maryland State tree: The Wye Oak
Maryland State Crab: The Blue Crab
Maryland State flag: The pretty yellow and black one
Maryland State Dinosaur???

The Astrodon Johnstoni!!!

Did you know Maryland has a state dinosaur? I didn't until now, the wonders of the internet. As of 1998, The Astrodon Johnstoni was recognized as the state dinosaur. It was the first dinosaur to be discovered about 140 years earlier

This is the Astrodon Johnstoni. There are actually 3 dinosaurs in this picture, and Im not sure which one the Astrodon is. I dont know why the artist would do that. Actually it occurs to me that it may be the babies, because other dinosaurs don't get that close without fighting eachother. I would know

The bones were originally discovered in 1858 in Prince Georges County. Actually, that site in Prince Georges County has uncovered the largest amount of dinosaur bones east of the Mississippi River. The bones are now housed safely in the Smithsonian in Washington DC. I trust them, dont worry.

The Atstrodon Johnstoni is believed to have gotten about 30 feet tall at its adult height and 50 to 60 feet long. Thats like 10 times bigger than a velociraptor, at least. I would know

The Astrojohnstoni Dontosaurussaur was a vegetarian, so it didnt eat cavemen. My sources say that it ate Conifers, Cycads, and low growing plants. Mm I love those. They say that it was a forest dweller, so it lived a hobbit lifestyle, but its bones were discovered in a river deposit, so it probably died while taking a bath.

There is a little debate about it taxonomic classification, it has been known as the Pleurocoelus, but some say it could be of the Brachiosaurus. Ha...duh, what amateurs...

The Hinterland

2007-10-03T10:38:00.000-07:00

Heres an upcloser look at the soon to be released long awaited project!

As recorded this summer, the new project by David Story, The Hinterland, is coming out! It's about time because I have gotten anxious and have been teased by the teasers on Davids website. For those of you unaware, which are few if reading my blog, this summer, David Story, good friend, musician, and worship music leader at Summit Lake recorded his CD with Paul in his studio. I played bass on it and it rocks. Paul played percussion and other little excerpts, aside from recording the whole thing. It is sounding Awwwwwwwweeeesommme, the whole project is awesome and I hope it totally blows up and everyone can listen to it. There are track clips posted on Davids website and I recommend you listen to them and keep aware of his CD release soon to be. Read more about it on his website.

Google Me

2007-09-26T15:06:00.000-07:00

I just realized that if I google my name now, my blog comes up! and everyone else's whose name I google. That is interesting, I feel commercial. Maybe I am...

Engineers Without Borders

2007-09-11T08:35:00.000-07:00

Engineers without borders, http://www.ewb-usa.org/ is a national/international aid effort by engineers across the country to improve the welfare of life through engineering based projects. I have recently joined the Clemson University Chapter of this organization http://www.clemsonlinux.org/~jpelkey/ and we are currently working on a project of many disciplines in El Salvador. Since I am new, I will do mostly learning, but will be able to participate in the whole project.

We will be doing a number of projects in the city of Isla de Mendez, El Salvador. It all starts up here in America. The entire planning and engineering design will be made here while remaining in connection with some engineers down there, and specialists up here. Mostly we will just be in communication with the people down there. The trip for actually implementing the projects will be in early May. I am not sure if i will be going or not, it's a possibility. The work is divided into 6 sub projects

1) Solar Energy- Backup solar panels for a town to use for their businesses and radio station. They have very irradic power

2)Wind Energy- Helping to implement wind power for local organic farmers to be more productive

3)Water Distribution System- There is a water treatment plant located about 30 miles from a town, and the project is to design the system to get the water from that plant to the town.

4)Playground Pump-This is my favorite idea because it is very clever. This idea is to make a merry go round playground piece for kids to play on, and while they play and spin on it, it pumps water underground to a small water tower that can disperse the water. I actually stumbled upon the exact thing when looking through a link from another link on one of Love Light and Melody's emails. This is it
http://beta.razoo.com/blog_post/2275/show

5)Sustainable Building Design- This is a layout to creat an ecotourism area for people to visit wile producing minimal wastes

6)Assessing aquifer resources on the peninsula, finding out if an aquifer they plan to use for water is safe to use because it is so close to the ocean. If salt water has seeped underground far enough to reach the underground aquifer then it cannot be used there.

That is an overview of the projects, from what i've learned thusfar. There will be much more planning to come. It is no matter what going to be a great project and will accomplish a lot of good.

Game Day

2007-09-04T17:28:00.000-07:00

0110011010111010010010011011110100101010101001001001001001010101001
1010010101010100100111101001001011010010101`010010010100100101101010
101001001001011101010010011010100100011010010010010010010101101001010
10101001001010011010101001010010010010010010111010010100100/////01001
Monday:
010110010101001001
01010001
Game Day:
0101010

Anyways, monday was the first big game day of the season. Here is a photo essay of my experiences, sites, sounds(turn your computer speakers off), smells (get your computer fixed) and maybe tastes (you are probably eating as you read this then)

Tailgating starts early, and they are everywhere. People set up their tents all around town, bring out their tv's grills, furniture, and other random things. It is half of the fun.

Lines of cars along the road near the stadium

Tiger band, the band that shakes the southland, getting ready to march to the field

Making the descent down the dense streets to the game

Frank Howard Memorial Field, aka Death Valley

The field, slowly filling up.

Howard's Rock. A tradition here for the players to touch the rock as the charge down the hill at the beginning of the game. The rock is from Death Valley, Ca

Field at Sunset

the enemy, Florida State Seminoles getting ready

The Tigers Entrance, just for warm ups

The Tiger band

The grand entrance, to a packed crowd

Tiger Mascot crowd surfing to us

Tiger Band, spelling out Clemson

And of course......

The Win! 24-18 Victory over #25 Florida State

Tuesday

2007-08-28T19:22:00.001-07:00

Bright and Early 8 oclock! that is when my first class started. I woke up at 7:15, ate breakfast, and kicked it on over to my Chemistry Lecture. It is in this building hall right here.

This is Hunter Chemistry Lecture hall. It is actually just one big classroom in a building with the stadium seats. The big Hunter Chemistry lab and classes are right across the walking path. Class went well, my teacher has a british accent. You can actually see me taking the picture in the windows reflection

Off to my second class. Right after chem ends at 9:15 I have to hop over to my Western Civilization Class at 9:30. It is in Hardin Hall. I like that building.

My professor Dr. Marks is very interesting. And smart. Well I guess all college professors are really smart.

Later today I had math in the same building that I showed yesterday. This is a picture of Tillman Hall, another random building on campus. It is sort of the high point on Campus as well as being one of the oldest.

Thats a little smigdeon of my day today, or a couple of the sites I saw. I'll show you a few more maybe later. Peace cats and dogs

Day in the Life: Monday

2007-08-27T16:21:00.000-07:00

This week I am going to walk you through my daily routine, so you can get a somewhat better glimpse of this far away land and how I happen to live. This is rather general and I will show other aspects throughout the week.

Good Morning!

I woke up this morning at about 9 oclock to get ready for my first class at 10:10. This is me in the stairwell of my dorm, Mauldin Hall. My room mate Mark was still sound asleep. I woke up, showered, and headed out the door...

This is the first thing I see when I step foot out into the world. Right across that little turnabout is the dining hall that I go to the majority of the time.

Breakfast Time!

This is Schilleter Hall, one of the campus dining halls. The other one is Harcombe. It is better most people think but it's sort of far away from me so I usually stick with this one. I always enjoy a hearty breakfast(even though this photo is at lunch) even though most college students usually sleep right through breakfast. I do a devo there, I've been going through "My Utmost For His Highest" each morning.

Class Time!

This is Holtzendorff Hall, where I have my class Engineering Disciplines 102. This morning I had my lecture section. There are appx 130 people in the class. It's a little slow getting started but it seems like an alright class.

Bowman

Welcome to Bowman field. This is a major recreational hub on campus. I pass by it everyday at some point and Holtzendorff is right next to it. At any point in the day theres usually people throwing frisbee, playing football, volleyball, or just hangin about. They also do some of the intramurals here

Study Time!

Yes, studying comprises a good bit of my day. This is Cooper Library. In front of it is the outdoor ampitheater, where they have night movies, concerts, and plays and such. I like to study in the library because it's got good vibes.

Last Class!

Well really it's only my second class, but I only have two classes today. Normally I would have a 3 hour Chemistry lab in between but they have not started yet. This is Martin Hall, the math building. I have MathSci 206, Calculus of Several Variables. My professors name is Mr. Lamb. I picked that section of the course so I could be with a teacher named Mr. Lamb. He is boring.

Well that is a good chunk of today for you, I shall continue to show you excerpts from my days, but what better way to find out than visit me!

Cocktail Religion

2007-08-26T18:59:00.000-07:00

The priest at mass this evening brought up a cool subject. It was about the power of Salvation and how easily people dismiss it, or even more commonly "toy" with the idea. This mere "toying" with the idea is what he meant by cocktail religion. It's basically discussing religion or salvation at, say a random event like a cocktail party, and the nonbeliever simply discuss it for no other reason than to hold a "sophisticated" conversation. It can be just like politics or a debate, or any other random conversation. The problem with this is that the person may never have the conviction of what is actually being said. It occurs to me that the people that do this the most are in fact really really intelligent people. Many things in life are subject to opinion; politics, current events, but when it comes to Salvation, it's not a matter of having an intriguing and philosophical conversation at a cocktail party, it's truly understanding the what it mean, and more importantly what is necessary.

Drizzle

2007-08-26T13:15:00.000-07:00

It is drizzling, and thundering here in SC. I'm listening to the always classic Judd and Maggie tune Drizzle. It is ending, so it is fizzling. Peace of Pie~

Cribs

2007-08-24T12:15:00.000-07:00

Hey this is MTV and welcome to my Crib. There are warnings of a possible tornado, not large, as I blog here in my room. That would actually be pretty cool. But anyways I thought I would give you a little more of a visual of this place so here are a few pictures of my dormitory room. I know it seems vulnerable to stalkers ti see where I sleep, but I figure only about 10 people or so will actually ever read this.

This is what you see right when you walk into the room. My side is the left side. The desk is in the back left corner.

This is a picture of pretty much my side of the room, facing near the front. My bed is lofted over top and underneath is a minifridge, microwave, and tv. my closet is there too. Cool dude

Here is my desk. This is where all the magic happens. And by magic I mean hopefully good grades and stuff. As you can see it is adorned by my collage, crucifix, some posters, lamp, books, and other random junk. It's actually surprisingly messy.

Well that is my room, but let me also tell you about one other funny thing. As I stroll about campus, especially right near the dining hall, I am often greeted by cats, like little furry kitty cats, walking around aimlessly, and often emerging from bushes and underbrush. Well as it turns out to my surprise, these cats are totally feral, which means they are wild and just live throughout campus. It also means that they have been here for quite some time, and weren't actually introduced or let free by a student or townperson, at least in the past long while. Totally wild cats! We have been advised not to touch them.

The squirrels here are also very people friendly. It is very possible to approach one to within about one foot before it even moves.

Neat critters

Peace

Gettin Learned

2007-08-21T19:09:00.000-07:00

Please excuse my dear computer, I had some slight issues accessing the internet on my computer when I got to campus. All is going very well, my roomate Mark is cool and our room is lookin pretty snazzy. I have my neato collage thanks to Thed hanging up above my desk looking very swell. This evening I went to something called Library Lunacy... sounds crazy. I learned about the Library through interactive games like scavenger hunts. It was cool don't make fun of me.

Tomorrow my classes start. At 10:10 I have Engineering Disciplines and at 3:35 I have Calculus of Several Variables. I will be having my Engineering Disciplines lab at 8:00am but no lab classes meet this week. First week is going good, and this week hopefully will be too. Keep you posted. Give me a holla via cell and that would be dandy.

Peace, Love, and Cats Pajamas,
Evan

Rock n Roll

2007-08-11T06:13:00.000-07:00

David has probably said it best on his blog, but recording is going well and after a slow start it is underway and going smooth as water on a pillow. I did my bass parts yesterday, today is drums stuff and then whatever the heck David has to do. Singing I guess. Maybe guitar. Cool beans. Peace folk