This week I learned...

1. Little girls are a sure-fire way to get a much needed laugh.
2. Katie Garcia is mature beyond the normal scope.
3. Sometimes that daily run takes a little mental motivation.
4. Friendship is measured by quality, not quantity.
   
5. Art is relative.
6. Carmike is wrong in thinking that "Stimulus Tuesday" makes up for jacking up the prices on discount movie tickets.
   
7. I'm getting sick.
8. Cutting back is easier said than done.
9. Lucy's bed is much more comfortable than mine.
10. Stillness is a virtue that I should learn.
    

On Reading

When I was a little girl, reading was something I simply ate up. In one ordinary afternoon at home I jumped fences and burnt my skirt with Jo March, rode the sea with Moby Dick, camped in the Mississippi river with Tom and Huck, walked country roads with Lizzy Bennett and her sisters, fell in love, fell out of love, fell down rabbit holes with Alice, sat with Patrick Henry as he delivered his famous "Give me liberty or give me death" speech, was a pick-pocket about the streets of London with Oliver Twist, and became "glad" with Pollyanna.

And then my adventures ended. Or, at least those adventures ended. I went off to college and reading for pleasure became a thing of the past. Although, I will admit that some of my school reads have been quite pleasurable. However, instead of reading-and I think this was a rebellious act on my part-I watched TV, played on the Internet, day-dreamed, or mis-used my time in other ways. Let the record show that I was also studying for class, doing homework, and working. However, my free time was squandered on mindless activities.

All that changed last week. I was perusing a bookstore with friend of mine and happened upon a book called "Rebecca", a 1938 novel by Dame Daphne du Maurier. I saw the film version-directed by Alfred Hitchcock- when I was about ten or so with my grandmother. Not long after, I noticed an original copy of the book on my Texas grandmother's bookshelf. Finding it last week on a local shelf, I was more than thrilled. Sunday night, I started the journey to Manderley and followed my narrator as the new bride of Max de Winter. In three short days, I was finished with the novel, barely being able to put the book down.

It seems that I have rediscovered the joy-and art-of reading. My newest find is "A Tree Grows in Brooklyn." Yet another story that I have lost myself in.

Thank you, Hooked-on-phonics.

This week I learned...

I am a day late, but better late than never, right?

1. It's not always bad when the romance dies away.
2. Some of the best days I have ever experienced have snow involved.
3. Reading is a great escape.
4. Half classes are things of beauty.
5. I am a writer.
6. His grace is sufficient for me. His power works best in weakness.
7. Family-blood related or not-is the best company in the world.
8. Sally VGB is a great listener and friend-this I already knew, just a small shout out.
9. Pride is a hindrance in my life.
10. My happy weight is apparently 118.2.

Salutations

The Springer Opera House announced its 2009-2010 season last night. It's a pretty crowd pleasing season.

• Footloose
• Star-Spangled Girl
• Peter Pan
• Tuna Christmas
• Route 66
• Inherit the Wind
• Forever Patsy Cline
• Oklahoma
  
• The Complete History of America; Abridged

In the Children's Theater:

• Bambi
• Ramona Quimby
• James and the Giant Peach

A great season, yes? Tonight varied from past season announcement parties. Instead of the board of directors talking the night away, Springer Theater Academy students lead the evenings events. They opened the evening, introduced parts of the season, and talked about the impact that the Springer has had on their lives. It really was too cute to see little Dasha Nolan reading excerpts from senior essays. At the end of the evening, 100 Springer Theater Academy students stood on the stage and performed "Salutations."

What is "Salutations", you ask? "Salutations" is our way of honoring the past, acknowledging the present, and saluting the future. We stand on the shoulders of many who have gone before us and we know that if we do our work well, others will follow. The actual action of "Salutations" is a difficult thing to explain. You kinda have to see it. However, let me assure you that it is a powerful sight. And it is even more powerful to actually do it. I have to admit, I got a small surge of energy as I was going though the motions of "Salutations."


As a graduate of the Springer Theater Academy, I can tell you the difference between stage right and stage left. I can explain the difference between projecting your voice and yelling and demonstrate both. I can use voice inflection with the best of them and demonstrate body isolations. I can stilt-walk and improvise. But these are not the most important lessons that I learned, nor are they the most important lessons that Ron Anderson wanted students to learn when he first established the Springer Theater Academy over 12 years ago. Confidence, discipline, and focus are the lessons that that Mr. Ron imparts to hundreds of children every year. I have seen, and personally experienced, the impact that the Springer has on the community of Columbus, Georgia. The Springer provides a safe-haven for children to learn and grow, as individuals and as artists. The Springer provides the community not only with quality entertainment, but it provides educational opportunities for students in and around the Muscogee County school district. "Life Skills through Stage Skills." The Springer isn't training 700 more actors for Broadway. Instead, it is teaching kids skills that are invaluable for any career, be it doctor, lawyer, accountant, pastor, etc.

I am better person because of the Springer and the community of people that the Springer embodies. I understand and appreciate the history that is the Springer; the people that have gone before me, those that are experiencing it with me now, and those that are yet to come. I love the Springer Opera House for what it is and what it strives to be.

In Christ Alone

In Christ alone my hope is found;
He is my light, my strength, my song;
This cornerstone, this solid ground,
Firm through the fiercest drought and storm.
What heights of love, what depths of peace,
When fears are stilled, when strivings cease!
My comforter, my all in all—
Here in the love of Christ I stand.

In Christ alone, Who took on flesh,
Fullness of God in helpless babe!
This gift of love and righteousness,
Scorned by the ones He came to save.
Till on that cross as Jesus died,
The wrath of God was satisfied;
For ev'ry sin on Him was laid—
Here in the death of Christ I live.

There in the ground His body lay,
Light of the world by darkness slain;
Then bursting forth in glorious day,
Up from the grave He rose again!
And as He stands in victory,
Sin's curse has lost its grip on me;
For I am His and He is mine—
Bought with the precious blood of Christ.

No guilt in life, no fear in death—
This is the pow'r of Christ in me;
From life's first cry to final breath,
Jesus commands my destiny.
No pow'r of hell, no scheme of man,
Can ever pluck me from His hand;
Till He returns or calls me home—
Here in the pow'r of Christ I'll stand.

Thankfulness; Part Deux

Today I am grateful for:

1. The 8th graders at St. Luke School.
2. My small group.
3. Runs in the park.
4. Dinner with the Carvers.
5. Sweet sisters.
6. Phone conversations with Sally.
7. The thought of sleeping in on Saturday morning.
8. Good books.
9. The end of my theater appreciation class.
10. Peace beyond comprehension.
    

Movie Ratings: Useful or Useless?

Tuesday, in my theater appreciation class, we discussed censorship and the pros and cons that go with it. Our professor gave several ideas behind censorship and it's purpose; morality, welfare of children, cultural standards of appropriateness, etc. The censorship that we discussed was focused on the arts; film, theater, visual, etc. The discussion that followed was interesting to say the least.

It would seem in our discussion that we found a few double standards. Female nudity is fine, but we are shocked by male nudity. Why is this? Harsh language is confined to the "f" bomb and the "c" word, while "hell" and "damn" are just fine for daytime television and "sh**" is ok after a certain time in the evening. What makes the nighttime acceptable for bad language rather than the daytime? Well, children may be watching during the day. Movies automatically go to an "R" rating if the "f" word is used, but not if there is partial nudity.

So, who decides what movie gets what rating? According to The Classification and Rating Administration, parents, men and women just like you and I, give the movies their ratings. They watch the movies and then give them ratings based on educated estimate as to how the average American parent will react.

The Classification and Rating Administration went into effect November 1st, 1968. It was becoming obvious that the old rules of what was acceptable under "The Hays Code of Production" were not working anymore. Under these rules, actors could appear to be sleeping in the same bed together. One actor must have a floor on the floor at all times. The first major reason for discussion of a new rating system was because of a movie called "Whose afraid of Virginia Wolfe." For the first time the word "screw" was used in a movie. A meeting was called between Jack Valenti, MPAA's general counsel, Louis Nizer, Jack Warner, the legendary chieftain of Warner Bros., and his top aide, Ben Kalmenson. A three hour meeting ensued and it was agreed upon that the word "screw" would be deleted from the movie. The next issue was one concerning nudity. The film, "The Blow-up" was denied The Production Code Administration denied it's seal of approval because of partial nudity. In April 1968, the U.S. Supreme Court upheld the constitutional power of states and cities to prevent the exposure of children to books and films that could not be denied to adults.

So there is your history lesson for the day.

One of the most interesting parts of movie ratings in today's society is that standards and the idea of what is acceptable is constantly changing. Kids know more earlier, people seems numb to violence and seem to have turned a deaf ear to harsh language. Because of this, it seems that the ratings are not as effective as they once were. Because what was once deemed "unacceptable" by the movie gods is now "acceptable" it is almost as if ratings don't matter at all.

This begs the question "Who are the movie gods?" Not the rating board. Who is it that decides what is now acceptable in society and therefore appropriate for the silver screen? Is the The Classification and Ratings Administration (CARA) responsible?

Comments? Ideas? Suggestions? All are welcome, just keep it civil.

This week I learned...

1. To pay attention to which stove top is on.
2. Sarah Ann really does love me even though she won't say it back.
3. Contentment is something I need to work on.
4. If a little old Chinese lady can worship without a bible, in secret, while cleaning raw sewage, I can (joyfully) worship with a bible, in a fabulous job, in total freedom.
5. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.
6. Jealousy gets you nowhere.
7. Obedience is doing what you're told, when you're told, with a smile. (I learned this a long time ago...thanks, Mom.)
8. I need to work on memorization.
9. Physical activity is a must.
10. Sometimes, you are the only one who is going to stand up for you.

Past, present, future...

I have had several events over the course of the past few days which have pointed out to me the rapid speed at which we live and die. "Ugh!" you say. "What a morbid thought!" Nope. I don't think so. Hear me out on this one.

In one weekend, there was announcement of pregnancy, a wedding, and a death. Each event brought thoughts to my mind. The most powerful, however, was the funeral (shocking, I'm sure), although the wedding was a close tie. I want to focus on the funeral though.

The funeral was for Mrs. Sharon Niedrach who died Friday night. I wrote a post about her just a few days ago. Mrs. Sharon had planned out her funeral to a tee. She planned it down to how long the pastors could talk. I loved how each song, bible verse, and each charge to the congregation was clearly Mrs. Sharon. She was in each moment. She wanted the service to glorify God. And I know that it did. It was, without a doubt, the most beautiful funeral service I have ever been too. Although, as I was telling my dad, it was all because of the person. Mrs. Sharon was a beautiful lady. She was beautiful because of her faith. It defined her and that was obvious to everyone who knew her.

As I sat there between my dad and my friend, Matt, it struck me more potently than ever before that this was a woman that I want to imitate, even in death. As the service went on, I was awe struck at the worshipful nature of the service. God was most certainly present and glorified in all that was said and sung. Mrs. Sharon's desire for her funeral service, a celebration of her life, was that the focus be on Jesus Christ. As her sweet friend Marilyn said, "Sharon is not the hero of Sharon's story; Jesus Christ is the hero of Sharon's story." This is because of His grace and mercy in her life. She was not ashamed of the gospel of Christ. She proclaimed it with gladness.

Another thought that hit me was that, while death is not something that I have thought about for myself, it is not something that I totally fear. As a Christian, there is nothing for me to fear in death. I know where I am going. When I said that I want to imitate Mrs. Sharon in death, I mean that I want to long to be with my Savior as she longed to be with Him. While she was sad that she would be leaving her loved ones for a time, she was more than willing, happy, and ready to spend eternity at the Father's feet.

Psalm 115:1
Not to us, O LORD, not to us, but to your name be the glory, because of your love and faithfulness.

Well done, my good and faithful Servant.

I should be working right now. I have two articles that I need to finish up for work before tomorrow morning. However, I was taking a much needed break and was reading up on the blogs that I follow. The one that grabbed my attention was, my sweet friend, Nancy's blog.

Nancy is the youngest of the five Niedrach children. The Niedrach's are a family that I used to go to church with. Mrs. Sharon Niedrach was diagnosed with terminal pancreatic cancer on March 6th 2007. She has fought a long hard fight and has passed by every deadline given by the doctors. Even now, as she lies in a hospital bed in her home, she is on day four of what the doctors said could be anywhere from mere hours to two days. Nancy says that her sweet mama doesn't want pain medicine because it means that she can't talk to them. Instead, she never complains, only cries when the pain gets to be too much. At this point, she cannot communicate verbally with her family or the doctors, but can still hear and understand what is being said to her.

Words are not adequate when trying to describe the kind of person that Ms. Sharon is and the impact that she has had on everyone around her. She is one of the most godly women I have ever met. Her kind spirit, her humbleness, her wisdom, knowledge and understanding of God's word. Her joyfulness in her Maker is something that I long to have. Her faith is strong enough to move mountains. She is hospitable, gracious, tender hearted, forgiving, funny, smart, an incredible wife and mother, and someone that I aspire to be like. The impact that she has had on my own life may seem small in comparison to others that she has touched, but is huge in my eyes. Her constant encouragement towards me, her sweet words of comfort when I was suffering, her subtle, sweet pointing to the cross, reminding me that "sorrow may last through the night, but joy comes in the morning."

It hurts my heart to know that she is in pain, but her girls write that she is at peace and ready to go home. "Like Jeremiah in the Bible she wanted to share Christ’s message; there is in [her] heart as it were a burning fire shut up in [her] bones, and [she is] weary with holding it in, and [she] cannot. Jeremiah 20:9 She has a fire in her bones for Christ, and that is how she has lived her life. Very soon she will be in eternal happiness. She will know no more sorrow – no more tears. She will hear the words Well done my good and faithful servant Matthew 25:21." (Nancy Niedrach Sisler)

My heart goes out to the Niedrach family as they go through this difficult time.

On Running

I love to run. There is something about it that makes me happy before, during, and after. I have no romantic ideas about it. It's not the wind rushing through my hair. (I mean, who am I kidding? I'm not going that fast.) It's not that I feel particularly glamorous when running. I love the sweat, the way I breath, and the rush of endorphins.

On the girly side, I love running clothes and running shoes. And on the human side, I love the community, the idea that there are millions of people who run and we all do it for similar reasons. I love passing people running the opposite direction and giving a nod of acknowledgment. On the health side, I know that running is good for my heart, it keeps me lean, it strengthens my muscles, and gives me energy.

2007 Country's Midnight Express

So, you get it. I love to run. And I love everything about it. I get new shoes every six months. I read "Runner's World." I try and eat what they say runners should eat and I have pretty much cut everything but water and juice out of my liquid diet. Whoo-Hoo. Go me.

In all of this, I struggle. Time, motivation, time. It is something that I love, but something that I have to schedule. I can think of a million excuses not to get up in the morning, what I have to do after work, why I need to go to bed early. I know that once I hit the ground I am going to be just fine, it's getting there that's the hard part.

This past summer, I ran with my friend, Sam, a number of times. After awhile, Sam asked if we could really run and not "fake" run. I started to realize that I was half jogging, half speed walking. Since then, I have be dedicated to actually running. And this year, I have committed to becoming better at setting a reasonable pace for myself that is actually running. I have also committed to not putting running off. It will not be the thing that I say "no" too. It will be a regular part of my day. It will be something that I do for me.

Want to read what I read? Check out Runner's World.

I love...

that this picture:

spawned this conversation:

Kyle: Is that your dad in that picture with you?
Me: Yes.
Kyle: You guys just look like you have fun.
Me: We do.
Kyle: With EVERYTHING!

It's true. I have a pretty awesome family.

This week I learned...

1. Variety is the spice of life.
2. Security is a relative term/thought/idea.
3. Routine is a bit more important to me that I originally thought.
4. I do not mind living alone. In fact, I l-o-v-e it.
5. Three miles isn't that much...if you think about it.
6. Keeping up with friends is key to healthy relationships. (Thank you, Gmail Chat.)
   
7. Sense of direction is something I should work on.
   
8. Surprises aren't all that bad...but I still don't like them.
9. Stepping out of my comfort zone is something I should do more often.
10. I wouldn't mind a jet-setter life style.
    

The Queen of Facebook speaks out.

I have a love hate relationship with Facebook. It's been going on since early 2006. I got on because the guy I was dating was on and I wanted to be able to...be on there too...lame. I know. And it just gets crazier. I am known as the "Queen of Facebook." Seriously. Want to know why?

I have:

1. 1, 342 friends
2. 865 pictures of me (that have been tagged)
3. 70 photo albums
4. 130 Profile Picture. This means that is how many times I have changed my profile picture since 2006. AND I know that I have deleted one or two.

So, yes, the Queen of Facebook is speaking to you right now. Feel honored.

Over the past (almost) four years, Facebook has kept me entertained, enabled my nosy-ness, helped me waste time, spawned many a political debate, and arguments with my mother. In short, I love Facebook while hating it with a fiery passion of hell. However, I keep my account and am logged in most of the day. Why? I have no idea. It's addicting. Plus, at this point, what's the use in deleting it? The geniuses behind this site have changed their privacy policies and are keeping everything you have ever posted and claim to own it all now, so again...what's the point in deleting my account? I don't see one.

So, without further comment, here are 25 more reasons why I love/hate Facebook.

Arts Education

Part of my job at the Springer is serving as editor of "The Callboard." "The Callboard" is a news publication that we are working on getting out to the high schools here in the Columbus area. Our goal is to becomes the information hub for high schools in the southeast. However, we are starting out pretty small. In each issue we will highlight at least one school and have a calender of all upcoming productions from each school. Also, we will include a list of suggested books and movies, advice from the professionals at the Springer, letters to the editor, etc. We are very excited about this venture and what it can become.

One of the stories that I have been working on for our first issue has to do with obstacles within the schools, especially when it comes to the theater departments. All schools have obstacles of some kind, some more than others, and it seems that the Arts programs suffer the most. In an interesting conversation with a South Columbus teacher, the educator remarked that it was often her class that kids were pulled in order to prepare them for the graduation exam that is required to exit high school. I think that there are several interesting ideas behind this comment. One being the fact that it is necessary to prepare these kids specifically for the graduation test. Another being that these students are pulled from arts classes. Theatre, band, visual art, etc. I am going to have to address these issues separately. I am going to start with the latter.

According to school boards and administrations across the country, theater, visual arts, band, and other Art forms have no place in the public school forum. These classes are the first to have their budgets cut and the first departments to be cut out altogether. In fact, the arts are sooner dropped than any athletic program. Why is it that these classes are considered expendable? A child’s education consists of subjects such as math, science, English, and social sciences, as well as other subjects. There are no options given to students as to whether or not they want to take these courses. However when it comes to the arts, these courses are seen as electives and may be taken or not taken depending on the child. Why is it that we believe that math, science, history, etc, should be required and the arts can be pushed to the wayside?

I believe that Arts Education is vital to a well rounded education because of what the arts encourage and provide in a child’s life. As a student of music and theatre, I appreciate what the arts have done for me as a person. The arts provided a healthy and safe environment for me to grow as not only an actor and musician, but as a person. I learned how to speak in front of people of all ages with ease and comfort; I learned how to experiment with various methods of presentation without fear of failing; I became comfortable making bold choices; and I was afforded opportunities to learn how to lead and follow effectively in a group. I speak from experience when I say that children who experience the arts are better equipped to become the future leaders that our communities and our world so desperately need. Team work, discipline, commitment, and confidence are all a part of an arts education and are qualities that I do not think we can afford to exclude from any child’s educational experience.

The Dinglewood Lunch Club

Columbus, Georgia has it's pros and cons. I love that I am able to call it home, but at the same time, I am ready to get the heck out of dodge. However, there are people, places, and things that make Columbus bearable to me at this point in my life and I want to share a few.

1. My family. I love that they are here and I love that we are able to spend time together without hundreds of miles between us and the need to get on a plane. (However, when the time comes to get on that plane, I won't be unhappy that it is here. Not because of my family, but because of Columbus.)
2. Friends. I have some pretty awesome friends here. They are a diverse group, but that is what makes them so great.
3. The food. I know this sounds silly and a lot of people would argue with me, but I love the restaurants here. There are so many places here in Columbus that are special to our city. Dinglewood, Deorios, Country's, The Farm House, I could go on and on.
   
4. Young Life. Yes, there is Young Life all over this country and I intend on being a part of it no matter where I am, but the kids at Shaw High School are the ones that I have a relationship with now.
   
5. My church family. I really love my church. I am refreshed every week and I love the ministry that is going on at St. Andrews.
   

I say all of this because today I had lunch with my friend, Joseph Davis, at Dinglewood where we tend to eat together for the most part. (Meghan Doll was supposed to join, but slept instead...just a shout out to you, Mego!) Lunch with Joseph is always uplifting to me. He reminds me that I am not alone in my struggle to find the right path for my life. That I am all but alone in my journey with Christ. That I am not alone in my discouragements, my dreams, my hopes and aspirations. He reminds me that it's ok not to have it all together and that those who seem to have it all together are the ones that you need to take a second look at because without a period of brokenness, you can't experience God's grace to the max.

I do love Columbus, Georgia. I really do. But as Colt Miley would say; "It's like this little bubble." And I want out of that bubble for the time being. So, when opportunities come my way, like lunch with Joe, I will gladly take them and enjoy them with a grateful heart knowing full well that God will never give me more than I can handle.

Gracias...not "Garcias"

I am thankful for this group of people.

Verse of the day.

...even if you have been banished to the most distant nations, from there the Lord your God will gather you and bring you back. Deuteronomy 30:4

This week I learned...

1. Not to talk on the phone and go through the drive-thru at the bank at the same time. This allows you to be able to not cash checks that you intend to deposit which then end up lost/stolen.
2. Time management is something that I have GOT to work on.
3. Trust is a leap of faith no matter what side of the fence you are on.
4. I hate math. (This is not something that I figured out this week, I just re-discovered.)
5. Sleep and high school girls don't mix on weekend getaways...unless you are with the freshman and sophomore girls, in which case they will do whatever you say.
6. A mother's need/urge to defend her child never goes away.
7. American Idol is super dramatic this season.
8. I am not a playwright.
9. I love Meghan Doll, Julie Davis, and Katie Kelly more than life itself.
10. Young Life has my heart and the kids at Shaw High School are my world.
    

STC 2009

We tell kids that going to Sharptop will be the best weekend of their lives. And it is. Seriously.

We are supposed to leave from the Target parking lot at 4pm. HA. Yeah right. Kids loose or forget forms, kids are late, leaders are late, kids have to go to the bathroom, kids need to go into Target, leaders need to go into Target. You name it, it happens. We finally got on the bus and on the road around 4:40pm. Only forty minutes late. Not bad. The ride up was pretty awesome. We played music and sang and danced. The kids thought I was an AWESOME dancer...not.



We arrived a Sharptop Cove around 8pm. Plenty of time to get settled before our first leader meeting. In our leader meeting, Chris Ashburn, our weekend program director, asked for a female volunteer for the on-going skit. This girl would play a work crew girl and be the girl that "Hercules" would fall for. "Hercules" was a nerdy little guy and pretty funny. I agreed to be that girl and was promptly named "Trixie." For the rest of the weekend, I was greeted with "TRIXIE!!!" by all the kids. Pretty funny. I was a part of program all weekend. Hercules would try and hit on Trixie and mess up the pick-up lines, he would insult her without meaning to. In the end, he gets the girl. Nice happy ending.


The girls and I were placed in Lookout Mountain. Meghan and I each had a room, Meghan with the older girls and me with the young girls. We were really only apart when we were sleeping. Cabin time was done together. Dinner was served around 9pm, followed by club and then cabin time. Our first night at STC ended after midnight. Whew.

Saturday started early with a leader meeting at 8:15am, followed by breakfast, games, club, cabin time, lunch, and then a day of free time. Another leader meeting, dinner, club, quiet time/blackout, cabin time, entertainment night, and then bed time. Busy day, eh?



Sunday morning started with the last leader meeting, breakfast, club, packing, cleaning, meeting with kids, Frontier Ranch video, free time, loading up, and heading home. At home we were greeted by our awesome committee who had a pizza, a classic cookie, and a coke for all the leaders.



Club. Our time in club was awesome. The singing was a huge hit. The kids loved every song. Our speaker was Chuck Scott, former pro football player for the L.A. Rams (back before they moved to St. Louis). Chuck is now a Young Life Area director. Saturday night it one of my favorite parts of a weekend at Sharptop Cove. This is the night that we bring the kids to the cross and tell them why Jesus died for their sins. After the talk, we send them outside for 20 minutes of uninterrupted silence and stillness with their Maker. All the light are turned out all over camp and you can see the stars and the moon and you can hear the rushing creek below camp. It's really beautiful.

Leader meetings. These meetings were held in the leaders lounge, a place to have space from kids, and this is the time when we heard the plan for the day and spent time together in the Word and in prayer. Awesome bonding time as leaders.



Cabin time. This was a small group time where each room/school got together and talked about what Chuck had shared. This was a time for kids and leaders to open up about thoughts and ideas concerning God, religion, and life in general.



Meal time. Another favorite time for campers and leaders alike. Lots of music. Amazing food. Good bonding time.

Overall, the weekend was a huge success. God was truly moving in the lives of kids and leaders alike. Thank you to those of you who prayed for us. It was felt and appreciated.

Quote of the day.

A heart for the glory of God and a heart of mercy for the nations make a Christ-like missionary. -John Piper

Guest Blogger

I am getting ready to leave for Sharptop in a bit and don't really have time to think about what to blog. I am giving you a guest blogger today. I think this is a great post and relates well to what I am doing this weekend.


Enjoy!

Three Hundred and Two

That, my friends, is the amount of money that I lost in the past twelve hours. Let me start at the beginning.

Yesterday afternoon, I went and cashed a check for three hundred and two dollars and some odd change. I didn't really mean to cash it, but I was on the phone at the time and I didn't have a deposit slip and I wasn't thinking and I was in the drive-thru and the bank teller cashed it and I got the envelope and I put it in my purse and I thought "OK. Whatever, I'm paying my rent tomorrow morning."

The rest of the details are not really important. I have searched and searched and searched. I have looked in every bag, cleaned out my car, look under the couch, my bed, and every table and chair that I own. I have looked in my bathroom and through all of my laundry. I cannot find this money. I have made phone calls and prayed without ceasing since I realized that it was gone. And still, nothing.

There are several thoughts in my head right now.

1. I am about to go to Sharptop and Satan is working to prevent me from thinking about the weekend and focusing on the weekend. Well, I'm on to you, buster.
   
2. I ended up asking my parents for the money. I have not asked my parents for money in over two years. Occasionally, they have given me money just because they wanted too, but I have never asked for it and that was a source of pride for me. Calling my mom and telling her about losing my money was one of the hardest things I have ever done. My parents offer to give me the amount that I lost and my actually taking it was even harder.

Irresponsibility is not really my thing. Asking my parents for money is not really my thing either. Perhaps God is using this to further break me down and humble me. Whatever the case is, I am sure that He will be glorified through this. His promise is clear; "All things work for good for those who love Him and are called according to His purpose." (Romans 8) He is taking away my pride and that can only be a good thing.

"I will bless the Lord at all times. His praise shall continually be in my mouth." Psalm 34:1

Quote of the day.

Being powerful is like being a lady. If you have to tell people you are, you aren't.
~Margaret Thatcher

I'm a copy-cat.

Peyton Baker got to this before I did, so I am going to call myself a copy cat. However, I was just searching for these words when I went to her blog and saw them as her latest post. They are too wonderful not to share here as well.


Before the throne of God above
I have a strong and perfect plea
A great High Priest whose name is Love
Who ever lives and pleads for me.

When Satan tempts me to despair
And tells me of the guilt within
Upward I look and see Him there
Who made an end to all my sin.

Because the sinless Savior died
My sinful soul is counted free
For God the Just is satisfied
To look on Him and pardon me
To look on Him and pardon me.

Before the throne of God,
I come before the throne of God, I come
Behold Him there, the risen Lamb
My perfect spotless righteousness
The great unchangeable I Am,
The King of glory and of grace

My name is graven on His hands
My name is written on His heart
I know that while in Heaven, He stands
No tongue can bid me thence depart.

One with Himself I cannot die
My soul is purchased with His blood
My life is hid with Christ on high
With Christ my Savior and my God
With Christ my Savior and my God.

This week I learned...

1. Passwords are never protected, no matter how secure you think they are.
2. Chapstick is a good thing to have in your pocket.
3. I hate Melissa's voicemail.
4. I am ready for warmer weather.
5. I need an oil change.
6. Cleaning my apartment should be a more regular thing on my part.
7. Time Management needs to be more of a priority.
8. I am more refreshed after time in His word.
9. Sarah Ann is a fabulous math tutor.
10. A picture says a thousand words.
    

Sharptop Cove

Four days and counting until we (Greater Columbus Young Life) leave for Sharptop Cove.

As most of you know, I am a Young Life leader at Shaw High School here in Columbus. This weekend, we are taking our high school friends to Sharptop Cove in Jasper, Georgia right above Atlanta. I covet your prayers as we continue to sign kids up for camp, drive up on Friday afternoon, spend the weekend solidifying relationships, sharing the Gospel, and then as we come back on Sunday afternoon.

So far, Shaw as around 27 kids signed up. I have complete faith that God is going to place the kids He wants on the bus. Please pray that these kids would be open to the Gospel message, that God would work in their hearts, that He would place a yearning, burning desire in their hearts for Him, and that these kids (the girls especially) would open up and share with with me.

Please also pray for me as I spend the weekend with these girls. That the words that come out of my mouth during Cabin Time would be God's, not mine; that I would be in God's word and within understanding distance of Him; that God would minister to my heart and refresh my spirit as I seek to minister to these kids; and that I would surrender to myself to Him.

I love you all and I am so grateful for the prayer warriors that God has provided me with.

"The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective." -James 5:16b

"I sought the Lord and he answered me..." -Psalm 34:4

"Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it and it will be yours."-Mark 11:24

"For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you..."-Colossians 1:9

"The grace of the Lord Jesus be with you all. My love to all of you in Christ Jesus! Amen!" -1 Cor. 16:23-24

Thankful Sunday

Today I am thankful for:

1. The fireplace at my parent's house.
2. The ability to worship God in the open.
3. Super Bowl Sunday.
4. Lunches with Ms. Alison.
   
5. Sharptop Cove.
6. Sweet tea.
7. My job.
8. Sweet friends.
9. Living near a gas station.
10. Long-sleeved t-shirts.
11. Peace.
12. Good music and dancing.
13. Isaiah.
14. Pastors with a sense of humor.
15. The possibility of snow.
    

Out of My Bondage

Out of my bondage, sorrow, and night,
Jesus, I come, Jesus, I come;
Into Thy freedom, gladness, and light,
Jesus, I come to Thee;
Out of my sickness, into Thy health,
Out of my want and into Thy wealth,
Out of my sin and into Thyself,
Jesus, I come to Thee.

Out of my shameful failure and loss,
Jesus, I come, Jesus, I come;
Into the glorious gain of Thy cross,
Jesus, I come to Thee.
Out of earth’s sorrows into Thy balm,
Out of life’s storms and into Thy calm,
Out of distress to jubilant psalm,
Jesus, I come to Thee.

Out of unrest and arrogant pride,
Jesus, I come, Jesus, I come;
Into Thy blessèd will to abide,
Jesus, I come to Thee.
Out of myself to dwell in Thy love,
Out of despair into raptures above,
Upward for aye on wings like a dove,
Jesus, I come to Thee.

Out of the fear and dread of the tomb,
Jesus, I come, Jesus, I come;
Into the joy and light of Thy throne,
Jesus, I come to Thee.
Out of the depths of ruin untold,
Into the peace of Thy sheltering fold,
Ever Thy glorious face to behold,
Jesus, I come to Thee.

-William T. Sleeper

T.U.L.I.P.

I read several blogs on a regular basis. I have a list on the right-hand side of my own blog. One of the sites that I visit regularly is Desiring God. It is "God-centered resources from the ministry of John Piper." John Piper is the senior pastor of Bethlehem Baptist Church in Minneapolis, Minnesota. He wrote of my favorite books (and one that I am re-reading this year) called "Desiring God." Great book.

John Piper adheres closely to the mindset of John Calvin. You can read about John Calvin here. Calvin believed the following:

Total Depravity (also known as Total Inability and Original Sin)
Unconditional Election
Limited Atonement (also known as Particular Atonement)
Irresistible Grace
Perseverance of the Saints (also known as Once Saved Always Saved)

These five categories do not comprise Calvinism in totality. They simply represent some of its main points. You can read more about Calvinism here. I personally believe that Mr. Calvin would roll over in his grave of he knew that people called themselves "Calvinist," but that is just me.

My original point was this, I was reading the DG blog this morning and on the left-hand side there is a list of articles from the blog that the author calls "Best of DG blog." I was intrigued by the title of one of the articles; "Be a kinder Calvinist." As someone who also considers themselves to be of John Calvin's mindset, I was a little more than interested. The article was written in in response to this letter.

Basically, the writer of the letter is unsure of how to deal with some members of his congregation who are what he calls "hyper-Calvinists." He goes on to describe this particular group as "very vocal and self-righteous." He doesn't understand why a) they cannot agree to disagree, b) why it isn't good enough to be a solid evangelical who really loves Jesus and wants to serve him, and c) why the tool that he had leaned on for so many years in youth ministry, namely loving relationships, failed him.

I can totally understand where this pastor is coming from. I have been in situations where legalism and an air of self-righteousness were extremely prevalent. As someone who grew up in the "Reformed Faith", I see the (and totally had the same mindset) this condescending, self-righteous act. On the other hand, since I believe, as John Calvin did, that a) I have nothing to do with my salvation, b) nothing I do will ever warrant the grace and mercy of God, and c) that God, in His sovereignty and infinite wisdom and mercy, chose me before the beginning of time to be a part of His family, where the heck do I get off thinking that I am better than anyone else? As I have matured in my faith, I now see Christ and His work on the cross as an extremely humbling thought/act on my part. I need Christ just as much as anyone else. Being a child of God is my saving grace but does not negate my need for Him. Yes, my sins have been forgiven, but I continue to fall short of His glory. How is this any different than anyone else?

As a Young Life leader, I have come to a much better understanding of the simplicity of the Gospel message. Inasmuch as I recognize and believe the "Five Points of Calvinism" and believe it because of scriptural support, I am convinced that "reformed theology is a good trip, but remember, it is a means to the end, not the end itself." (Thank you, Micah, for that little quote.)

Through Young Life, I have become convicted of the power of Christ and his message alone. When I am sharing the message of the Gospel with these kids, it has little to do with theology. It has everything to do with His love and the power of His dying on the cross for our sins. How do you talk with anyone about the person of Christ if you do not first have a personal relationship with them and how do you get to a point where you can talk about theology with anyone unless they first know the person of Christ?

I am not opposed to theology or the discussion of theology at all. We choose which church or denomination we are going to be a part of based on the theology embraced by any one congregation. I hold very dear my own theology. I chose my church because of the doctrine upon which it stands. My problem with theology is when it gets in the way of sharing the Gospel message. My problem is when we lord our theology over others in order to feel better about ourselves, prove a point, or make ourselves look better than everyone else. That is when it becomes a hindrance rather than a way to better explain or understand God's word. Being "reformed", or a "Calvinist", or an "Arminan" does not pave the way to heaven for any of us.

I will leave you with this last thought from my good friend, Micah:

"There are far too many pastors and congregants, in all faith traditions, who are more interested in dogma than the Gospel. A lot of us have opinions about doctrinal things (e.g. infant baptism, predestination, eschatology), but realize that they aren't determining factors for or against salvation. That said, I knew plenty of students at ******* (and even two or three at **) that truly believed they, in their infinite wisdom, had figured out the entirety of the Bible based on their reading of Luther, Calvin, and Rushdoony. You could not have a discussion with these kids, because there was nothing to discuss. It's the same with evangelical fundamentalists. Every issue is cut and dry. There is no room for interpretation or a viewpoint that does not match their's (or Bill Gothard's/James Dobson's/John Hagee's) exactly. In both cases, the very thing that unites believers (the saving work of Christ) is thrown out the window in order to feel smarter or better than someone else who just doesn't understand the Bible/Catechism/Westminster Confession. Crazy."

The Reader

Yes. I go to the movies a lot. I tend to hit them when they go to the Dollar Theater in order to save myself a buck...or nine.

I realize that movies go through cycles, much like fashion and music. However, what the heck is up with all of these Nazi/Germany movies? I will say that I appreciate the fact that none of these movies have been the same. The stories have varied and have been told from different view points. The Boy in the Striped Pajamas, Valkyrie, The Reader, Defiance. All of these have to do with WW2. Each has a discovery about the horrors of war and the holocaust (although, I have not seen Defiance, so I cannot really speak for it's plot line).

"Boy" deals with WW2 from a German child's perspective and a Jewish child's perspective. You are allowed to see both sides, adult and child, Jewish and German. Valkyrie shows the war from a German perspective, yet it is from a German who saw through Hitler's ugliness. The Reader shows the aftermath of the war from the perspective of a German to whom being an S.S. officer was merely a job. It shows the importance of education and literacy and how a lack of these can influence and hinder. It gives a vivid depiction of pride and how dangerous it can be. This film also embraces the issue of love and how when love is marred, betrayed, and forsaken, a person can be forever scarred.

Overall, I was intrigued by this movie. I do not understand why Kate Winslet was nominated for Best Supporting Actress when she is the only female actress with any significant role. She was fantastic. This film is definitely not for everyone. I wouldn't take the kiddos. I do think that the ending provides questions that are good for all of us to ponder and recommend it to anyone who likes a good "thinking" film.

Slumdog Millionaire.

I would like to thank the movie making gods for coming up with something that we haven't seen in awhile. While the underdog theme of the movie is far from new, the setting, cinematography, and sub-plots were refreshing to this movie-goer's weary eyes.

While I am not sure that the slums of India are quite as colorful and bright as portrayed in this film, I still feel that directors Danny Boyle and Loveleen Tandan did a brilliant job of showing a life different that what we know here in the United States.

It has taken me awhile to think about this film and what I actually took away from it. The themes are somewhat obvious to me. Family (and what that word really means), true love, honesty, hope, loyalty, and there is an almost "Robin Hood" theme going on. The idea of stealing to survive. It smudges the lines of right and wrong, black and white, and gives the idea of gray areas something to stand on.



I really loved this film, although there were moments towards the end where I felt that the movie could have ended several times. I, personally, do not enjoy that feeling when watching a movie.

Perhaps it is me being uneducated in regards to India, but I felt that this film showed me a side of that country that I had not thought of or even realized that it existed. I feel good about suggesting this film to older audiences. I would not suggest taking the youngers.

This week I learned...

1. I needed to cry.
2. Hindsight is 20/20.
3. Athens is a beautiful city,
4. Hugs from Mom are still pretty much the most comforting thing ever...even at 20.
   
5. Good friends are worth super short trips.
6. I have a lot of people who care a great deal about me.
   
7. Lunch at SHS was good for me and the kids.
   
8. I over-commit at times.
9. Love does not go away.
10. I sleep on the couch when I am upset.
    

Parking Garage Justice

It was a cool, brisk, Athens night. Life was good. The mood was light. Laughter was in the air. Family and friends were together after a time apart from one another. Spirits were high. Parking was not easy to find, but the parking Queen found her way into a spot marked "small vehicles." Perfect. (**SIDE NOTE: The spot next to the Parking Queen's was also for small vehicles.)

On to dinner down the block. About an hour and a half later, back out at the car and the group realizes that we can not get into the car. The car parked next to ours is a jeep and far too large to be considered a small vehicle. There is no way that we can get in. The next thing we know, Sally (A.K.A. Parking Queen) has a pad of paper out. The note reads as follows:

You are parked in a spot marked "Small Vehicles." If I ever see you parked like this again, I will have you towed. I have taken down your license plate number.

Signed,
Someone who parks responsibly.

This is not verbatim, but close enough. Sally was not a happy camper. We were all laughing, but she was not. Brad was impressed and kept saying "That's my lady." Yeah...

So beware. The Parking Queen will have justice.

Surls: 6.2008-1.26.2009

In the midst of the commenting frenzy on my post a couple of days ago, my friend, Tricia, told me to write my next post about puppies and take it down a notch. She was totally kidding and definitely did not mean for it to happen this way, but here goes.

If you read this blog on a regular basis or know me at all, you have probably heard me talk about Surls, my dog. Surls was abandoned in Flat Rock Park this past summer and I adopted him. God, in His perfect timing and extreme graciousness, dropped this sweet pup in my lap at just the right moment. This past summer was not my shining moment in the story of life. I was pretty lonely and my job was not exactly great. Surls was my little buddy. Always glad to see me. Always ready to love on me. My little shadow. I loved every minute with him. As he got older he also got bigger. He got to be a little much for my tiny apartment and Surls moved to my parents house. My parents live on five acres of land and also have a dog. Plenty of room to roam and a buddy on top of that. Dog heaven right in Upatoi. Every plan since I got Surls has included him. A house with a yard. What happens if and when I move.

I got off of work this afternoon and was on my way to pick up my bosses son, Max, when my mom called. She told me she had to tell me something. Surls had been hit by a car and died this afternoon. I hurried to get Max and then headed out to my parents. Me, Dad, Jess and Ben buried Surls in our little pet cemetery on the tree line.

I am not one of those fanatic pet owners. I don't do silly things for my dog like monogram jackets, bowls, and blankets. Nor do I put them on crazy organic diets, only give them bottled water, and feed them blueberries as snacks. But I did love Surls. A lot. He was my buddy when I was lonely and even when I wasn't. He was a sweet dog and I am going to miss him.

And now for something completely different...

After a crazy week, I decided to head up to Athens, Georgia to see my good friends, Brad and Sally Baker, and help them move into their new home. Brad accepted a job as Youth Minister at St. James UMC. I, along with Brad and Sally, am truly amazed at the outpouring of love from this church family. They have provided more than any of us could have ever imagined. It's good to know my adopted brother and sister are going to be taken care of in such a luscious (that was for you, Molly) manner.

Colt and I drove up Saturday afternoon and arrived in Athens around five or so. We were immediately put to work. After working hard for a few hours, the group ventured downtown for dinner. We ate at a great little sandwich place called "Which Wich." Super yummy and it provided great fellowship time for our little group.

After dinner, we headed back home where the boys put together an island for the kitchen and the girls worked on looking for places to hang pictures. No one lasted very long before bed started to sound really good. We were not lacking for room or places to sleep. This house is pretty big. Three bedrooms, two bathrooms, and so much closet space. Hardwood floors all through the house. A living room and a dining room. A pretty big kitchen. It has a big back yard and front yard. Brad loves yard work, especially raking apparently, so there is no need for anyone to volunteer to do it for him. He is really excited.

Sunday morning included Dunkin' Donuts (also known as Dunkin' D's by Sally), coffee, and some quiet time in which Alex talked about baseball the whole time. All of this was intermixed with showers by all six of us which resulted in icy cold showers for Sally and Theresa. No worries, though. It's good preparation for Sharptop Cove in two weeks. Showers tend to be a little chilly there too. Brad and Alex went and checked out the hot water heater AFTER I shrieked a little from the shock of the cold. Thanks, guys.

St. James is two lots over from Brad and Sally's, so we walked to church (much like the Amish or Hisidic(sp?) Jews), which was pretty nice. My sweet friend, Kathryn Garvin, met us for worship and it was great to see her and introduce her to some of my other sweet friends. After lunch we headed to a Hibachi Express type place that I cannot for the life of me remember the name of. However, Colt says it is one of the reasons he moved to Athens, but I didn't think it was that awesome. Good, but not awesome. Just sayin'...

The rest of our trip included a trip to a pretty amazing T.J. Maxx, a small tour of UGA campus, and Colt showing Kathryn and I were he used to live. We headed back to the house, picked up Molly and Alex, and the four of us headed back to Columbus. The trip back took for-ev-er. Traffic was bad right before we hit Newnan. Of course, this happened right after Colt asked me if we should stop for a bathroom break and I realized that I really needed to go. However, let me just say that as much as I hate being stuck in traffic, I will admit that you see some pretty interesting stuff. We saw a rock-climbing wall on a trailor behind a truck, a parrot, and a guy who got out of the truck and sat in the back to smoke a ciggerate while we were stopped.

I have to say, I thought I did a pretty good job playing "phat tunes" on the home. Once Colt told me I had to play some upbeat stuff to keep him awake, I thought did a pretty good job of playing deejay.

Thanks to Brad and Sally for continuing to make life interesting for the rest of us. I vote that this getting married/moving thing happen more often.

Fun quotes from the weekend:

• "Dwan! I didn't know you come here..."
• "I will cut you."
• "I'm a tree hugger; email me."
• "I keep breebin', I keep, keep breebin your brub..."
• "Wait...what?"
• "Please! We'll fix it! Just don't quit!"
• "Want to stop and get a bench? Ya know, not a bench, but a bench."
• "Carol's fruit stand is in a much better location."
• "Cheese dip and Mexican rice!"
• "Lucious."
• "Phat tunes."
• "Whatev, dude."

The majority of these were provided by Molly and Alex Baker.

Clarification

Where to start?

Maybe I should start with an apology. My comment in response to the anonymous comment in regards to this post was probably uncalled for. I was assuming that I knew (or had a pretty good idea) of who was posting. Regardless, my comment about the "ignorance of the American people" was out of line. So, I am sorry.

Next, I want to address a comment that my friend, Kim, left. Since she left it in a public comment, I am going to share parts of it here. (Hope that's ok, Kimmy.)
Of course I obviously agree with everything you wrote in this blog... I saw the link to this on Facebook and read the many comments that followed, and I see why people get frustrated on both sides of the fence. If you haven't doubted the system, then why do you write that we weren't living to our full potential? It takes time...to educate oneself so that a thorough opinion can be formed, and I personally understand having conflicting opinions. But if you aren't careful, it can also lead to people thinking that you say some things to one group of people, and other things to another group of people, which could ultimately lead to no one believing what you say.

Let me start with the system. The system obviously works. The system, in and of itself, is a good one. No one really contests it and if they do then there is a whole lot of debate and discussion over the changing of the Constitution (A.k.a. the system). Even after the debates, it takes a lot to change it. So, the system works. Every four years we campaign and elect new (or keep the current) leaders. Congress and the Senate change out on a regular basis. Each time that these changes occur, it is the American people that make the decision about the change. I can write on this blog without the government shutting me down. I can practice the religion that I choose. I can have a gun and vote. All of this exists because of the system. It works. I do not doubt the system.

When I "we", I mean We the people of the United States of America. I mean, human beings. Our constitution says that we believe that all men were created equal. Yet, segregation was a way of life here, in the U.S.. And until now, a black president was out of the question. When I said that we were not living up to our full potential, I mean that as a people we were not living up to our creed. Our motto. Our full potential as the greatest nation in the world. If we really are that, then everyone really gets a chance to be whatever they want to be. If we really are the greatest nation in the world, that means that the American dream is available to men and women, boys and girls, no matter your race, religion, or political views. Our founding fathers came here to be free to live the way they thought was best for them. Heard the term "Melting Pot" in regards to America? Yeah. That is referring to the fact that we are peoples from all over the place. We are all here for the same reason in the end. Freedom. The fact that it is better here. The people have a voice and the freedom to live how they like, within reason and by the law. That is what I mean by "not living up to our full potential." And people all over the world fail at that everyday. Not just Americans. Not just specific types of Americans. All of us.

I hope that clears up those comments for everyone. I know there were folks other than Kim that were curious. I openly admit that I am still figuring things out. I will always strive to admit when I am wrong and stand by what I know to be right.

My objective in my post on 1.20.09 was to comment on the history of the day. While I do not agree with President Obama on everything, because he is our President I will give the respect due to him as Commander in Chief.

It has also been brought to my attention that I seem to walk the line or play both sides of the fence when it comes to politics, both here on my blog and in person. I am going to clear this up once and for all, I hope. I am a conservative. More so than I thought before. While I admit that I am a conservative, I refuse to fall in the extremist trap. I will not nit-pick and criticize every word or action coming from someone that I don't see eye to eye with. I refuse to be ugly to people with whom I do not agree. I refuse to be that person who is unwilling to love others because we don't agree on religion, politics, or anything else. I refuse to cast judgment on others based on anything. That is not my place. That is not what I (or anyone else for that matter) was called to do. I was called to love others as Christ loved us. I refuse to be unwilling to work with others, debate or discuss with others, or hate because we do not agree on politics or anything else. That being said, just because I did not vote for "your guy" or the other side does not mean that I can't have a positive outlook on the future. It does not mean that I can't be just as excited about the future as those whose guy "won." This isn't about sides. It's not about black or white, republican or democrat. This is about the United States of America. This is about democracy. In the end, we all win because no matter who is in office, the people placed him there. And above all of that, God placed him/her in office.

I am still in a figuring out stage in my life and I hope that I never lose that sense of curiosity. I fully admit that I do not have all the answers. I will always admit when I am wrong, when I change my mind, and I will stand by my decisions on issues as best I can. I welcome discussion, questions, and debate.

Quote of the day.

♫

"What's worse, after all, a dream that never comes true or never admitting you dream at all?" --Hollis Gillespie

1.20.09

There are moments and days that will live forever in your mind. Moments and days that defined a period of life and time for you. For our grandparents it might be Pearl Harbor, V-Day, or MLK Jr.'s "I have a dream" speech. For our parents it might be the end of the Cold War, the day Kennedy was assassinated, or the day that the Challenger exploded in the sky. For all of us it might be September 11th. Well, today is going to be added to that list. For millions of people, not just here in the States but all over the world, today will be a day that lives on in infinity. Whether you were in Washington, D.C. or sitting in a small apartment in Columbus, GA, today was pretty awesome.

For those who doubted the American dream and it's creed that "all men were created equal," today is the day you have waited for. In my interview with the guys from "Dispatches from (A)mended America", I told Godfrey and Brandt that I thought two beautiful things came out of this election. The first thing is the fact that 50 years ago, Obama would not have even been considered for President...of anything, much less the United States of America. We have come a long way from separate water fountains, backs of buses, and sit ins at the local diner. The second thing is that we lived up to our potential as the greatest nation in the world. We proved that we do live in a democracy. Not that I was doubting the system before, but I do not think that we were living up to our full potential. If we had been then there would have been no need to for Martin Luther King to have a dream or for Rosa Parks to sit on that bus.

Today, our government turned over power to the incoming administration and there were no riots in the streets, no one died, and with the exception a few bozos who felt the need to take away from the greatness of the day with boos for the outgoing President and V.P. (read about it here), the day was peaceful and filled with excitement, wonder, and joy. Today is not the day to start fighting about policy and what is going to happen next. Save it for tomorrow. There will be plenty of time for arguments, criticism, and disagreements over the next four years. Today let's celebrate our country and the people who make it great.

Grant's Song

I met this guy yesterday
And he's been on my mind all day
All my thoughts just turn to him
He called me and when I picked up
All he said was, "Hey, what's up?"
And I felt myself falling again

He's beautiful, he's magical,
He's somehow irresistible,
He's wonderful, he makes me whole
But there's one thing he'll never be
He'll never be with me

Last night we talked until 4am
And last night I knew I was in love with him
If he could've heard what I was thinking
He would've known my heart was sinking

Because he's beautiful, he's magical,
He's somehow irresistible,
He's wonderful, he makes me whole
But there's one thing he'll never be
He'll never be with me

If he says her name one more time
I think that I am gonna die
He says, “She's beautiful, she's magical,
She's somehow irresistible,
She's wonderful, she makes me whole
But there’s one thing she’ll never be
She’ll never be with me”

If he could only see:
I think he's beautiful, he's magical,
He's somehow irresistible,
He's wonderful, he makes me whole
But there's one thing he'll never be
He'll never be with me

-Caroline Garcia

This week I learned...

1. The Algebra class I am taking is going to be hard and studying is going to be my life.
2. The weather channel does not always know what they are talking about.
3. Schedules are irrelevant and non-existent.
   
4. Sleeping in a big bed alone is best done if you sleep in the middle.
   
5. Caroline gives awesome advice.
6. Sleeping too much is like not getting enough sleep.
7. Praying with and for sisters is sweet, blissful joy.
8. When you get honesty from the start then you shouldn't get your hopes up.
   
9. Not having something every night of the week is ok.
10. I am not that bad at ultimate frisbee, contrary to what my siblings say. HA.
    

More of Caroline...

I’m driving down the road with the radio on
Smiling to myself when they play our song
I look all around and I see a happy world
Cause I’m looking through the eyes of a very happy girl

I laugh to myself because the rain’s coming down
But then comes the sun from out behind a cloud
People say I’m a hopeless dreamer
But even God was a hopeful schemer
I tend to walk along with a song in my head
Or a story of a life in a book that I’ve read

It’s a beautiful paradox when the sun plays with the rain
It’s a sort of hide-and-seek that goes beyond a game
It speaks of a truth that’s neither black nor white
Of times when decisions are neither wrong nor right
-Caroline Garcia

Playing Outside

You are probably sick of hearing me talk about my siblings and how awesome they are.

**I'm so kidding, but if you really are, come back another day.**

However, Caroline (number 2) is an incredible song writer/poet/writer. I got exclusive permission from the author to reproduce some of her work. I think you are really going to like this.

Playing Outside

Why can’t life be defined
By the games we played when we were nine?
The games I played in my head
When I talked my bear and she said,
“I’ll be your friend when you cry
And you can hold me close at night
And we can sleep side by side.”
Every tree was a friend
And the sun smiled and kissed our skin
We named the birds overhead
And never listened to what our parents said
About getting dirty; we played in the mud
And it was so much fun
Life was so simple back in the day
When all we had to do was go outside and play

Bucket List, Part dos

I was going back through some old posts and saw my "Bucket List." I thought I would give you a quick update on what I have accomplished (not much) and what I have added.

• Jump out of a plane (this is happening in four months for my birthday)
  
• Go overseas.
• Plant a flower garden
• Adopt a baby
• Get a puppy
• Keep a goldfish alive for longer than a month
• Write a book (Working on this)
  
• Get married(this should probably be above the have a baby/adopt one...)
• Go on a long term mission trip
• Be "Millie" in Thoroughly Modern Millie"
• Have a white picket fence
• Go on a cross country road trip
• Be the Artistic Director of a regional theater
  
• Be a professional photographer(I define professional as being paid for your work...and John Cooper wants to buy some of my work. See? I am working on being a professional!)
  
• Be on staff with Young Life
• Buy a car
• Create a foundation for underprivileged kids to go to college
• Win lottery or be famous author to have money to create foundation
• Live in New England
• Sing in a night club (When I say night club, I mean a jazz club that's smokey and dark...specifics are important here, people.)
• Graduate from college. (this one should probably be further up on the list.)
• Work at a job I love
• Read as many books as I can (Working on three right now)
  
• Be known for my extensive library
• Have season tickets to the symphony, the theatre, GT football and basketball games, and the Braves
• Take college algebra to get it out of the way.
• Go see Lucy this semester
• Finish my UT application
• Work harder on that book
• Post on the blog more regularly
• Add more pictures to the blog
• be a better communicator
  

Quote for the day

There are no words to say how much I love words.
-Tom Stoppard

Thought for Today

Why is it that we think throwing our jackets across us will keep us warmer than actaully wearing the jacket as it was intended?

Thankful Sunday

My friend, Becky, has a fantastic blog that I read on a near daily basis. She has what she calls "Thankful Friday" where she lists things that she is thankful for in her life. I am afraid that I will be nowhere near as diligent as she, but I am going to make an attempt.

1. Parents. I love my parents. We don't always agree and we don't always understand one another and what the other needs, wants, or desires, but they are pretty awesome.
   
2. Siblings. I know I say this all the time, but I love my brothers and sisters. They pretty much rock.
   
3. The fact that I have a job. While other people are losing theirs and worrying about putting food on the table, I have a job and I love it. That's something right there.
   
4. Small group. I love this group, these people and the reason that we get together every Wednesday night.
   
5. Chick-fil-a. You laugh. You mock. You think I'm crazy. But, I am thankful for the big chick and the yummy-ness it provides for me on a regular basis.
   
6. Ultimate frisbee AND running. These two activities provide me with infinite joy.
7. Basketball Season. Praise Jesus. I am so glad it's back. I was going through withdrawals.
8. Good friends.
9. Surls.
10. Young Life.
    

"For I am not ashamed..."

"You have God's permission to not have to go through life building a fan club for yourself."

This awesome quote came from my good friend, Brad Baker, who stole it from his pastor. So, if there was any question of credit not being given where credit is due, there shouldn't be now.

I was having a conversation yesterday in which I asked if I was going to be made to sound like some crazy, religious fanatic (don't ask) and the reply I received was "Oh, you don't need my help in that area." After the initial sting and shock, my eyes welled up and I had to force myself not to let the tears fall down my cheeks. Some back tracking occurred from my conversational partner, but the words had been said and their weight was heavy.

It's the next day now and while the weight is still heavy, my thoughts are not as negative as they were. I do not have to go through life building a fan club for myself. I don't need the approval of men to know that I have found favor in the sight of the one who gave His life for me. Being what I like to call "sold out on Jesus" is not something to be ashamed of. Romans 1:16 says "I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believe..." Why should someone's intended insult of my faith result in tears on my part? Allow me to share the following passages:

2 Corinthians 12:10- That is why, for Christ's sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.

2 Thessalonians 1:4- Therefore, among God's churches we boast about your perseverance and faith in all the persecutions and trials you are enduring.

1 Peter 2:23- When they hurled their insults at him, he did not retaliate; when he suffered, he made no threats. Instead, he entrusted himself to him who judges justly.

The last one is speaking of Jesus. No retaliation, no threats. He simply placed His trust and faith in the One who sent Him here in the first place. I'll go ahead and admit that while I didn't retaliate or make any threats, the reason was more from the fact that I was blindsided from the comment rather than my trying to be more like Jesus.

Ok, so I'm a Christian. And while this is the first time that someone has vocally attempted to insult me without beating around the bush, it will most likely not be the last. My prayer is that the next time it happens, I react much in the same way I did this time, only without the shock (since Paul tells us not be surprised when we are persecuted/insulted for the Gospel message) and with the mindset that I am in good company if I am being accosted for my faith.

"I will bless the Lord at all times; His praise shall be continually in my mouth." -Psalm 34:1