The Micah Prophecy

Ignorant bloggers

2008-09-08T22:41:00.002-05:00

Every now and then I come across something that sends me back into the blogging world. Tonight as I was searching for research online, I came across a horrid statement on a blog site. I wouldn't have taken the time, noting blatant ignorance and racism which is everywhere in our country, but this time however chose to respond. The issue was a woman who spoke at the DNC convention for Obama, a woman who has been known to support Black Liberation Theology. The following was written and amazingly approved on a blog site called americanthinker.com. I will warn you that the words are offensive and in my opinion racist, and if you feel so inclined - feel free to let americanthinker.com know what you think about the comment.

My response follows 'BubbaJ's:

BubbaJ -"I too am so sick of the african-american feels they are "OWED" the Native americans are truly been robbed and treated the worst on what was truly their own soil....Ms.Daughtery or barely anybody else living today (african-american) here in America have never been a slave except to their anger and hatred..and if they are Christians what ever happened to Forgiving and moving on oh yea this black-liberation stuff is really about anger and owing but is it not true that the tribal chiefs were the ones who actually traded their "own people" (Muslim sultans did this) for tobacco.gold guns etc...The LUO tribe (Obama's descendants) captured prisoners of war and then sold them as slaves actually it was the "white" people (BRITISH) who banned selling of slaves in 1847 and finally in 1876 eleven years after CIVIL war this happened. get over it!!!!"

---
In response to BubbaJ - It is ignorant statements such as yours that perpetuate concepts of anger and hate. If you never acknowledge that you stand in the dominant position of privilege and judgement you will never see the reality of the full human experience. It's easy to tell someone who has been effected by an oppressive structure and situation to 'get over it' - while you stand in a place that has never felt that oppression. You might have even been apart of the oppression without being aware of it.... and by your words here I would guess you still are. Oppression comes when we dismiss others and the reality of their situations - when we don't acknowledge pain or frustration, or basic needs or rights. This is called compassion and it is what sets us apart from animals.

Liberation theology isn't about anger and owing, and if you took the time to really read -if you read up on these things- or listen to the sources of these scholars you would know that liberation theology is about understanding the pains of another human person and understanding that if there is a God, that God has liberated them from their pain and the injustices that were felt because of the oppression. Native Americans, African Americans, Latino/ Latina Americans, Black Americans, homosexuals, and the poor, - whatever the minority group - whatever is not the dominant, privileged group - whoever has felt oppression - there is liberation from it and the liberation allows us to live together as one people.

Being critical of another race, theology, people group, or political party will not give you credibility. It will only reflect the ignorance you still bear as a human. Open your mind to try to understand others who are different then you - those who have a different story. You might just learn something. Read the liberation theologians - Gutierrez is the main one.
And the next time you are in pain, when someone has hurt you or offended you - think about how quickly and easily you want to 'get over it'. When we walk in those shoes, the shoes of others, we don't find it so easy.

2 thoughts:
1. I can't believe there are still such ignorant and careless people in our world. And we wonder why our reputation in the world is bad.
2. Regardless of your political ties, let's figure this stuff out openly, honestly, and in community - or we will never get anywhere beyond destroying each other.

I welcome your thoughts....

That's right - I saw Obama

2008-03-22T13:41:00.003-05:00

Not only did I get to see this incredible man who I believe is undoubtly the best and most reasonable choice for the Presidency - the AP snagged me for my thoughts and today my quotes are flourishing throughout the online news world. four of us fought hard to get tickets to his rally in Portland yesterday, and waited in line for 3 hours to get floor access. It was quite the day. He is so humble and an incredible speaker. I believe he will make quite the fine President.

Here is a short clip from the National Examiner online....

PORTLAND, Ore. (Map, News) - Scoring an endorsement of national importance, Barack Obama threw down a marker Friday in the race for Oregon's suddenly important 65 votes for the Democratic presidential nomination.

A former challenger, New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson, took the stage to endorse the Illinois senator and repeat the Obama campaign theme - "yes we can" - in Spanish: "Si se puede."

The nation's only Hispanic governor called Obama a "once-a-lifetime leader" who will be a "historic and great president."

Obama responded with praise for Richardson, citing his leadership on alternative energy and saying he "understands diplomacy" and the need for an improved foreign policy.

Both had kind words for Sen. Hillary Clinton, who is expected to make a campaign appearance in Oregon within the next couple of weeks, well before ballots are mailed to voters in the Oregon primary.

Obama told a crowd of about 12,000 cheering supporters that during his campaign travels he found the American people desperate a politics based not on tearing each other down but on lifting the country up.

The message resonated with crowd members such as Brenulla White, a nutritionist.

"Obama talks about doors that have not been opened, and it's time for those doors to be opened," she said.

White said her son served two tours of duty in Iraq in the Army, and she praised Obama for promising to start bringing home the troops and for confronting racial issues.

"It's time for racial differences to come to the forefront and be resolved," she said. "How can a country fight if it's divided?"

White and other black woman at the rally said Obama can reach average people, define the issues for them and bring them together.

"I find him absolutely inspiring," said Melissa Marley, a graduate student. Despite talking to a large crowd, she said Obama can engage people individually and make them feel like he's listening. "I truly feel it's like he's in my living room," she said.

Voting starts in Oregon's primary in early May, and the ballots are tallied May 20.

The candidates will divide 52 pledged delegates in proportion to their primary vote totals. Twelve more so-called superdelegates, party leaders and officials, will go to the national convention without being formally committed. One more delegate to the national convention is to be chosen at the party's state convention in June.

Copyright 2007 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Thoughts on Race

2008-03-20T19:00:00.007-05:00

So... sure enough, this week's events concerning race have brought me out of blogger aloofness and into blogging engagement.

First - if you have not read the transcript of Obama's thoughts on race in America, please check that out anywhere on the web. google it.

Second - if you have only heard Jeremiah Wright's comments based on the small fractions the media has been feeding you, please check that out on the web as well. Google the whole sermon and you will find the context - always important when considering what any pastor is trying to convey.

And now for the rant.

America - wake up. The reaction over this past weeks remarks only convince me more, that not only has the United States of America forgotten its history, here I mean years of oppression and slavery leading to jim crow leading to MLK and the civil rights which only occured less then 50 years ago leading to a continued quited institutionalized racism, but has chosen to ignore present realities that continue to oppress millions of Americans and hold back this country from being a truly great nation - indeed this week reminded me that we are far far far from that.

If the remarks that were aired, realites that people of privilidge continue to gain privlidge whiles those who are poor and oppressed - regardless of skin color or ethnicity - only remain poor and oppressed -or the notion that God might not be pleased, even disappointed, in a nation that has so much - but does so little to help those in need and continues to oppress, manipulate, murder, with hold, betray, and humiliate these under class brothers and sisters...- if these remarks make you upset, possibly even rattle you a bit- good. They are meant to - beacause they are true. If truth is hard for you America then don't vote for Obama, because evidently that's what you are going to get. Something we as a country have not seen in a long time, even past the Bush monoarchy.

And something, unfortunatley, this week America is starting to ignore again. The fact is, America can't handle the truth and that statement is one that every American should weep and nash teeth over.

On another note - a much calmer note.
The church has a role in this. Christians have a role in this. Jesus was the one who said - I am the truth. Our calling is simple, love. What an opportunity we have - to say as communities of faith to one another and the world, what does this mean for us? This does not mean that we trun our heads and avoid the question or the conversation- no matter how uncomfortable you might feel. What does it mean to be a people who say we love our neighbor? Who is your neighbor friend? Not the one who lives directly beside you - who looks like you, acts like etc... but the one who you are afraid of because they are different. Because their skin is a different shade then yours. When you truly love your neighbor, then friend - you are truly - truly a Christian and understanding the Truth that provides transformation and reconcilliation. If the church has anything to say - now is the time to stand up and claim = instead of forgetting we will listen, instead of ignoring we will remember, we will choose to walk in the other shoe instead of throwing it in the river, we will choose to love instead of hate...because only when we love do we choose to live.

There is no other solution. So if you think you might turn it off or drown it out - you're wrong. There is no turning back now. Stop talking, start listening, choose love.

May God help us all.

Missing Tampa

2007-12-18T02:51:00.000-05:00

They say that when its beautiful in Oregon it is absolutely gorgeous. Attesting to this fact, the fall here in Portland was amazing - brilliant colors of orange and gold & lots of sun. They also say that when it stats to rain, it lasts forever. That was last week- I wonder if I will see the sun again.....

What does this mean?

2007-11-16T20:05:00.000-05:00

Hundreds of homeless camp outside New Orleans City Hall, urge mayor to offer more housing
November 16, 2007 5:49 PM EST
NEW ORLEANS - The homeless of New Orleans have left the city's shelters and gutted buildings to set up camp on the mayor's doorstep.

About 250 homeless people have erected smal makeshift tents - the only affordable housing they say they could find since Hurricane Katrina - and created a colony of despair in a grassy plaza outside City Hall.

Mayor Ray Nagin's second-floor office faces the camp, and its residents rally almost daily with the chant: "Hey, Ray! How about a house today!"

Nagin has not met with the group, but he said in a statement that the city "is working with numerous agencies to address the homelessness" that worsened after the hurricane.

The mayor said many of the homeless in Duncan Plaza have refused temporary shelter and rental assistance, and he is concerned about unsanitary conditions and safety.

Julius Nelson, 32, leader of a group called Homeless Pride that formed in the plaza, said shelters are overflowing and rental assistance is useless in a city where the storm destroyed most of the inexpensive apartments. He feared Nagin's statement meant the mayor would break up the camp.

"You've got people all over New Orleans sleeping in abandoned buildings, in abandoned cars, everywhere," Nelson said. "You don't have any affordable housing. People don't even go to the crowded shelters. They come straight here."

New Orleans has 12,000 homeless people, up from 6,300 before Katrina, according to UNITY of Greater New Orleans, a group that helps the homeless.

Nagin said his office of public advocacy has provided food, clothing and shelter to more than 1,000 people this year. On Thursday, he urged state officials to release rental subsidies that UNITY plans to distribute at the plaza.

Still, the encampment has grown from a half-dozen tents three months ago to more than 40 pitched on two grassy knolls. A gazebo in the plaza center is a pen for sleeping bags, cardboard and newspapers on which more homeless people sleep.

Some call it a safe haven because National Guard humvees begin their patrols from a Holiday Inn across the street. But a 39-year-old homeless man died in his tent Nov. 8 after he was beaten elsewhere the previous night and wandered back, authorities said.

"Bad things happen out here," said a 47-year-old woman who asked to be identified only as Donna. A gold ribbon tied to jesters bells hung on her tent zipper not for decoration, she said, but as an alarm after a stranger tried to enter one night.

The camp has become so hard to ignore that some observers believe it will force the mayor to take action on housing, an issue many critics say he has failed to address.

"His hand is being forced," said Sam Jackson, a member of the group Concerned Compassionate Community, one of several that brings food to the park. "The mayor can work to get these people a place to stay. Or, he could run them all out. But isn't that harsh?"

Of the 200,000 homes the hurricane destroyed, 41,000 were affordable rental units, according to estimates by the nonprofit group PolicyLink. Since the storm, fair-market rent for an efficiency apartment has risen from $463 (euro316) to $764 (euro521).

The storm also destroyed homeless shelters, reducing the number of beds from 832 to 232, according to UNITY.

About a third of the people in the plaza work at least part-time, but they cannot find affordable housing, UNITY said.

Katherine Scott, who stocks the camping section of a nearby Wal-Mart, said she has seen tents purchased one-by-one by people who look down on their luck.

"They've been buying them up faster than we can stock them, the sleeping bags, too. That just makes you cry," she said.

A church near the plaza offers laundry and showers to the homeless. Several groups bring regular meals. A few people living in the plaza give haircuts.

Those living in the plaza relieve themselves at fast-food restaurants, or in a row of bushes on the far end of the grounds, the smell wafting through the compound on a breezy day.

As night began to fall on the camp, Donna watched a group of people open beer cans after a day in which they did not leave the grounds.

"Around this time people start drinking. They've been fed. They don't have a reason to go out and work," she said. "But where else do they have to go?"

The few, proud, and the brave on the streets

2007-11-07T19:35:00.000-05:00

Every morning I watch veterans board my bus and head up the hill to where both my work place and the veteran’s hospital are located. There is an American flag outside the hospital and I can't help but wonder if they ever question if it was all worth it. If the country that promised to take care of them on and off the field, is living up to its promise now that the years have gone by and the hospital visits are still regular. I don't mean to speak about things that I don't understand - and hear me - I don't understand much of it all - serving in the military, war, patriotism....but from the deepest depth of my heart I hope and pray that these folks, the veterans, are getting the best possible care post- war, Vietnam, Iraq, Afghanistan, Korean ... because, they - like any other human - deserves that dignity and that right.

Veterans Make Up 1 in 4 Homeless in US
November 07, 2007 7:14 PM EST
WASHINGTON - Veterans make up one in four homeless people in the United States, though they are only 11 percent of the general adult population, according to a report to be released Thursday.

And homelessness is not just a problem among middle-age and elderly veterans. Younger veterans from Iraq and Afghanistan are trickling into shelters and soup kitchens seeking services, treatment or help with finding a job.

The Veterans Affairs Department has identified 1,500 homeless veterans from the current wars and says 400 of them have participated in its programs specifically targeting homelessness.

The Alliance to End Homelessness, a public education nonprofit, based the findings of its report on numbers from Veterans Affairs and the Census Bureau. 2005 data estimated that 194,254 homeless people out of 744,313 on any given night were veterans.

In comparison, the VA says that 20 years ago, the estimated number of veterans who were homeless on any given night was 250,000.

Some advocates say such an early presence of veterans from Iraq and Afghanistan at shelters does not bode well for the future. It took roughly a decade for the lives of Vietnam veterans to unravel to the point that they started showing up among the homeless. Advocates worry that intense and repeated deployments leave newer veterans particularly vulnerable.

"We're going to be having a tsunami of them eventually because the mental health toll from this war is enormous," said Daniel Tooth, director of veterans affairs for Lancaster County, Pa.

While services to homeless veterans have improved in the past 20 years, advocates say more financial resources still are needed. With the spotlight on the plight of Iraq veterans, they hope more will be done to prevent homelessness and provide affordable housing to the younger veterans while there's a window of opportunity.

"When the Vietnam War ended, that was part of the problem. The war was over, it was off TV, nobody wanted to hear about it," said John Keaveney, a Vietnam veteran and a founder of New Directions in Los Angeles, which provides substance abuse help, job training and shelter to veterans.

"I think they'll be forgotten," Keaveney said of Iraq and Afghanistan veterans. "People get tired of it. It's not glitzy that these are young, honorable, patriotic Americans. They'll just be veterans, and that happens after every war."

Keaveney said it's difficult for his group to persuade some homeless Iraq veterans to stay for treatment and help because they don't relate to the older veterans. Those who stayed have had success - one is now a stock broker and another is applying to be a police officer, he said.

"They see guys that are their father's age and they don't understand, they don't know, that in a couple of years they'll be looking like them," he said.

After being discharged from the military, Jason Kelley, 23, of Tomahawk, Wis., who served in Iraq with the Wisconsin National Guard, took a bus to Los Angeles looking for better job prospects and a new life.

Kelley said he couldn't find a job because he didn't have an apartment, and he couldn't get an apartment because he didn't have a job. He stayed in a $300-a-week motel until his money ran out, then moved into a shelter run by the group U.S. VETS in Inglewood, Calif. He's since been diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder, he said.

"The only training I have is infantry training and there's not really a need for that in the civilian world," Kelley said in a phone interview. He has enrolled in college and hopes to move out of the shelter soon.

The Iraq vets seeking help with homelessness are more likely to be women, less likely to have substance abuse problems, but more likely to have mental illness - mostly related to post-traumatic stress, said Pete Dougherty, director of homeless veterans programs at the VA.

Overall, 45 percent of participants in the VA's homeless programs have a diagnosable mental illness and more than three out of four have a substance abuse problem, while 35 percent have both, Dougherty said.

Historically, a number of fighters in U.S. wars have become homeless. In the post-Civil War era, homeless veterans sang old Army songs to dramatize their need for work and became known as "tramps," which had meant to march into war, said Todd DePastino, a historian at Penn State University's Beaver campus who wrote a book on the history of homelessness.

After World War I, thousands of veterans - many of them homeless - camped in the nation's capital seeking bonus money. Their camps were destroyed by the government, creating a public relations disaster for President Herbert Hoover.

The end of the Vietnam War coincided with a time of economic restructuring, and many of the same people who fought in Vietnam were also those most affected by the loss of manufacturing jobs, DePastino said.

Their entrance to the streets was traumatic and, as they aged, their problems became more chronic, recalled Sister Mary Scullion, who has worked with the homeless for 30 years and co-founded of the group Project H.O.M.E. in Philadelphia.

"It takes more to address the needs because they are multiple needs that have been unattended," Scullion said. "Life on the street is brutal and I know many, many homeless veterans who have died from Vietnam."

The VA started targeting homelessness in 1987, 12 years after the fall of Saigon. Today, the VA has, either on its own or through partnerships, more than 15,000 residential rehabilitative, transitional and permanent beds for homeless veterans nationwide. It spends about $265 million annually on homeless-specific programs and about $1.5 billion for all health care costs for homeless veterans.

Because of these types of programs and because two years of free medical care is being offered to all Iraq and Afghanistan veterans, Dougherty said they hope many veterans from recent wars who are in need can be identified early.

"Clearly, I don't think that's going to totally solve the problem, but I also don't think we're simply going to wait for 10 years until they show up," Dougherty said. "We're out there now trying to get everybody we can to get those kinds of services today, so we avoid this kind of problem in the future."

In all of 2006, the Alliance to End Homelessness estimates that 495,400 veterans were homeless at some point during the year.

The group recommends that 5,000 housing units be created per year for the next five years dedicated to the chronically homeless that would provide permanent housing linked to veterans' support systems. It also recommends funding an additional 20,000 housing vouchers exclusively for homeless veterans, and creating a program that helps bridge the gap between income and rent.

Following those recommendations would cost billions of dollars, but there is some movement in Congress to increase the amount of money dedicated to homeless veterans programs.

On a recent day in Philadelphia, case managers from Project H.O.M.E. and the VA picked up William Joyce, 60, a homeless Vietnam veteran in a wheelchair who said he'd been sleeping at a bus terminal.

"You're an honorable veteran. You're going to get some services," outreach worker Mark Salvatore told Joyce. "You need to be connected. You don't need to be out here on the streets."

---

Associated Press writer Kathy Matheson contributed to this story from Philadelphia.

---

On the Net: National Alliance to End Homelessness: http://www.naeh.org/

New Directions: http://www.newdirectionsinc.org/

Project Home: http://www.projecthome.org/

County of Lancaster: http://www.co.lancaster.pa.us/

Veterans Affairs Department: http://www.va.gov/

U.S. Vets: http://usvetsinc.org/

FINE

2007-10-16T23:11:00.000-05:00

Today was truly one of those days for me. I felt nerotic and emotional, homesick and overwhelmed. I questioned what God would use me for and why He would ever call me to such big things that require a big faith which I continuously doubt I have.
Luckily the Spirit moves great friends to share the right words at the right time. This word comes via my dear friend Emma in Uganda......

You were put on earth to make a contribution. You
weren't created just to consume resources -- to eat,
breathe and take up space. God designed you to make a
difference with your life. This is one of God's
purposes for your life, and it's called your
"ministry" -- or service.

The Bible says, "God has created us for a life of
good deeds, which he has already prepared for us to
do" (Ephesians 2:10b, TEV). These "good deeds" are
your service to the world. Whenever you serve others
in any way, you are actually serving God and
fulfilling one of your purposes. You were placed on
this planet for a special assignment.

The apostle John said, "Our love for each other
proves that we have gone from death to life" (1 John
3:14, CEV). If I have no love for others, no desire to
serve others, and I'm only concerned about my needs, I
should question whether Christ is really in my life. A
saved heart is one that wants to serve.

Another term for serving God -- one that's
misunderstood by most people -- is the word ministry.
When most people hear "ministry," they think of
pastors, priests and professional clergy, but God says
every member of his family is a minister.

In the Bible, the words servant and minister are
synonyms, as are service and ministry. If you are a
Christian, you are a minister, and when you're
serving, you're ministering. God has a ministry for
you in his church and a mission for you in the world.

Serving is the opposite of our natural inclination.
Most of the time we're more interested in "serve us"
than service. We say, "I'm looking for a church that
meets my needs and blesses me," not "I'm looking for a
place to serve and be a blessing." We expect others to
serve us, not vice versa.

But as we mature in Christ, the focus of our lives
should increasingly shift to living a life of service.
The mature follower of Jesus stops asking, "Who's
going to meet my needs?" and starts asking, "Whose
needs can I meet?"

Do you ever ask that question?

At the end of your life on earth you will stand
before God, and he is going to evaluate how well you
served others with your life. Think about the
implications of that. One day God will compare how
much time and energy we spent on ourselves compared
with what we invested in serving others.

At that point, all our excuses for self-centeredness
will sound hollow: "I was too busy" or "I had my own
goals" or "I was preoccupied with working, having fun
or preparing for retirement."

To all excuses God will respond, "Sorry, wrong
answer. I created, saved and called you and commanded
you to live a life of service. What part did you not
understand?"

If you're not involved in any service or ministry,
what excuse have you been using? Abraham was old,
Jacob was insecure, Leah was unattractive, Joseph was
abused, Moses stuttered, Gideon was poor, Samson was
codependent, Rahab was immoral, David had an affair
and all kinds of family problems, Elijah was suicidal,
Jeremiah was depressed, Jonah was reluctant, Naomi was
a widow, John the Baptist was eccentric to say the
least, Peter was impulsive and hot-tempered, Martha
worried a lot, the Samaritan woman had several failed
marriages, Zacchaeus was unpopular, Thomas had doubts,
Paul had poor health, and Timothy was timid.

That is quite a variety of misfits, but God used each
of them in his service. He will use you, too, if you
stop making excuses;

His NAME BE PRAISED, AMEN AND AMEN

A prayer for the coming of the King

2007-10-14T17:46:00.000-05:00

Although much of me does not want to believe in hell, I truly believe that we cannot live in this present day and age and deny its shadows. For many, their present reality is living hell. There is a promise, however, that this shadow will one day disappear and only light, hope, and peace will remain. I pray for that day to come sooner then later. Remember Felix in your prayers tonight, Christ died for him, his killer, and you.

From Associated Press
October 14, 2007 1:17 PM EDT

NEW YORK - A homeless man torched outside a church where he had bedded down for the night has died from his injuries, police said Saturday. Felix Najera suffered burns to 40 percent of his body after being set on fire while sleeping in front of Bethany Christian Church in East Harlem, police said. He died Oct. 9. Police had called the torching of the 49-year-old one of the most severe and senseless attacks on a homeless victim in recent memory. Residents said the victim was a heavy drinker who would bum cigarettes from passers-by, but otherwise was a harmless fixture on the upper Manhattan block. Najera was burned while sleeping in a cardboard box around midnight.

Modern day Adoniram Judson

2007-10-09T19:38:00.000-05:00

Atrocities are being done in Burma today and have been for years. Although once very dangerous to even conceive of entering as a missionary, today there are men, women, and children living out the call of the Gospel in some of the most harsh and terrifying conditions. Below is a Newsweek article about such a family. Pray for this team and pray for Burma. May all Christiains have such courage.
---------

Oct. 5, 2007 - Those living in the badlands along the border between Thailand and Burma know the lean and lanky American as Tha-U-Wu-Pa. Given that he is an active player in the struggle against Burma’s thuggish military regime, one might consider the name a nom de guerre. But he’ll have none of the war talk, insisting that he’s merely a Christian man driven by love and a desire to help relieve the suffering among Burma’s oppressed ethnic minorities.

And he points out that those minorities need as much help as they can get—and a great deal more. While the world has been outraged by the Burmese junta’s recent crackdown on monks and civilians protesting peacefully in big cities like Rangoon and Mandalay, away from the spotlight the people in the ethnic enclaves have been enduring the generals’ persecution for decades. And for 10 years from their base in northern Thailand, Tha-U-Wu-Pa and his Free Burma Rangers have been slipping past Thai patrols and eluding heavily armed, trigger-happy Burmese Army units in order to bring emergency medical care and other assistance to people in the Shan, Karen, Karenni and Arakan ethnic states.

The 47-year-old expatriate, who grew up in Thailand and speaks the language fluently, has himself roamed across a thousand miles of Shan, Karen and Karenni territory on relief missions, often with Burmese soldiers no more than a few yards away. The Americans he leads are mostly Christian, and the man himself—let’s call him Don for anonymity’s sake—is a kind of modern missionary on steroids. He’s seen some of the worst atrocities of the Burmese military. “When you think about terrible things, it’s hard to quantify,” he says, two days after returning from a cross-border relief mission. “What’s terrible? People shot and killed instantly, tortured slowly, blown to little pieces, stepping on land mines …”

And yet Don displays the missionary’s faith and optimism. “The love that ethnic people have given us has struck me most,” he says. “This love gives us the strength to keep going and not worry about who wins and who loses.”

By any practical measure the ethnic minorities are losing. While the protests in the big cities went on for several weeks, the government’s campaign against ethnic people has been raging nonstop for 50 years, and some operations are ongoing right now. In Karen state in eastern and southern Burma, the State Peace and Development Council—which is to say the junta—began an offensive in February 2006 that had killed more than 300 men, women and children and displaced 25,000 people by February 2007, according to the Free Burma Rangers.

The group, founded 10 years ago by Don, compiles its numbers via the teams it sends into Burma on humanitarian missions. It says the Burmese Army built 33 new camps in the area, seeking to solidify its control. The military’s 2006 campaign was the largest offensive in Karen state since 1997, says Don. The army’s goal, he says, is to crush anyone living in those areas.

“Their objective is to eliminate all resistance, to keep a tight grip on the population,” explains a 25-year-old American volunteer whose Karen nickname is Wee. “And they do it quite brutally, with no regard for basic human rights. Last month they burned down at least two villages in northern Karen state with no concern for whether they were harming men, women or children. They’ll take whatever they like, shoot the place up, burn down the village and set land mines on the trails leading to farms. People are regularly maimed or killed.”

After the army loots and destroys villages, any villager seen is shot on sight, witnesses say. The soldiers’ slow pace, coupled with security provided by the Karen National Union (KNU), means most people are able to escape. The KNU has tried to set up an early warning network in the state. Villagers flee into the jungle, often to hiding places prepared in advance. Once the soldiers leave the area, ethnic Karen try to return to their villages and farms—or at least to somewhere nearby. Often the devastation is such that they can do neither, and they become internally displaced people.

At the Rangers’ headquarters, the young American volunteers mix with Thai and Burmese colleagues, putting together videos, care packages, educational supplies, information packets—whatever it takes. They see their mission as providing “help, hope and love.” And they are not here in any kind of paid capacity. Each volunteer is responsible for his or her own upkeep, and they all have people or churches or businesses back home supporting them. As Wee speaks the TV flickers with images of distraught Karen villagers recounting atrocities committed by Burmese troops. The video shows a man burying his face in his hands, crying as he tells about his children being captured by soldiers, killed, and then burned. They were so young, he says incredulously, between sobs. How could they have been any kind of threat? “They didn’t even know their right hand from their left hand,” he wails.

Watching the video, Wee says quietly, “When there are babies and moms and others around you and you’re all running in the jungle to get away from the SPDC troops, it kind of takes away your fears for your own safety.”

Don remembers a report by a television crew that accompanied the Rangers on a mission. The presenter suggested that under attack the Rangers had run away and left some people behind. It still angers Don, even now, a couple of years later. “We have a rule that we don’t run if people are there,” he says. “You know, when people want to join us, we look for moral courage. Well, that’s the moral courage. You don’t run if the people can’t run.”

He says that in 10 years there have been fewer than 10 situations in which he has come under indirect fire—mortar, rocket-propelled grenades and such—and only twice has been “under direct fire, nothing between them and me.” In one incident he “could feel their bloodlust at the back of my head,” he recalls.

And he remembers a battalion “firing everything it had at us” for 30 minutes. “I wasn’t even scared, because I knew we were doing the right thing.”

Each time the Rangers go on a mission, they spend a month or two in the bush, getting around on foot and hiking 10 to 40 miles a day. “You’re not going to get fat,” Don observes wryly. “We don’t know how long we will hike, and we don’t know how far. It depends. It’s either, the attack by the SPDC was over there and you have to get there, or someone’s chasing you and you have to keep moving.”

Ranger teams consist of four to five people and include at least one “medic,” typically a native person who has gained some medical experience working with one of the ethnic militias. “A lot of people are interested in joining our teams,” Don says. “They love their people and they see something terrible is going on. A lot of them have had experiences, and they’re angry. A lot of these emotions are motivating factors for our teams.” As a result, the Rangers don’t have to recruit. The various ethnic groups, each with its own acronym, send volunteers. “We just tell them the qualifications,” Don says.

Don’s Karen name, Tha-U-Wu-Pa, means “father of the white monkey.” That’s a reference to one of his two daughters, herself nicknamed “white monkey.” He also has a son, his youngest child. His wife works with him in the effort to, as Wee put it, “remind these people that they are not forgotten.” Don’s family helps provide perspective. Last year Don took a photo of a nine-year-old Karen girl wounded in a Burmese Army attack in which her father and grandmother were fatally shot at point-blank range. The picture shows a large, bloody hole where a bullet exited the abdomen of the girl, who survived. “It struck me that this could happen to me,” Don says. “I thought, ‘Wow, man, that’s my family right there.’ I said from this day on, this is my family.”

Che

2007-10-08T21:08:00.000-05:00

Although I disagreed with Che, that revolution is only possible if violence and weaponry are involved, I believe in things he desired – justice for the poor, rights for the indigenous to have land, and a fair and social order. Communist or not, I believe Jesus would have wanted these things and still does. However if we live by the sword, ultimately we die by it. If only Che believed that Another World Was Possible….
The following is the BBC article on this week’s anniversary of his death.
--------
This week marks the 40th anniversary of the death of Ernesto "Che" Guevara, the Argentine-born doctor who fought alongside Fidel Castro during the Cuban revolution.

He died in Bolivia trying to foment a similar revolution there.
To this day he remains one of Cuba's leading "heroes of the revolution" whose image can be seen on posters and walls across this communist island in the Caribbean.

Gen Villegas told me of his first encounter with Che Guevara. At the time he was a young peasant farmer living close to the Sierra Maestra mountains and had decided to join Mr Castro's guerrilla fighters who were hiding from government forces."Che was already a legend in the villages here. He was known as a formidable fighter, who took the art of guerrilla warfare to new levels."

"My first impressions were of admiration and respect for a man who was capable of giving his life for a people he didn't know, us Cubans."

But once Che had got to power why did he give it up? Had he become hooked on guerrilla fighting? No….

"I think Che was a revolutionary at heart much more than a guerrilla fighter," Gen Villegas said.

"For Che it was about social change and justice. A revolutionary fights to change the whole structure of society at once, not some gradual change. Given the conditions in Latin America at the time, Che considered the only way to achieve this was by the armed struggle.

"It was imperialism which defined Che. He wasn't a violent man, or one who liked to assassinate or kill. On the contrary, he was a loving man who wanted build socialism. That's something very difficult for capitalists to understand"

In the West Che image has become largely de-politicized. For many he has turned into an almost rock star like figure, a romantic rebel icon, far removed from a committed Marxist revolutionary fighter.

The famous photo of Che with his beard and beret is said to be one of the most reproduced pictures in the history of photography. I recently saw a doctor in Britain wearing a Che badge; on it the words "Join the stop smoking revolution". For cash strapped Cuba, Che's image has become a much needed hard currency earner. Havana is full of tourist shops and markets selling everything from T-shirts to posters, calendar key rings and fridge magnets.

"I don't think its right to commercialize his image but we shouldn't criticize it," said Gen Villegas. "I think the really important thing is that tourists want to use Che's image, whether they know much about him or not. If young people look up to him, there's more chance they will go on to learn about who he was and what he fought for, a more just society."  

Thoughts on Evangelical Culture and a Place for Women

2007-10-07T00:02:00.000-05:00

A paper I submitted this past week.... I welcome your thoughts.

A professor recently made the in-class comment that, “The strongest voice against women in ministry are evangelical women.” This important thought is only one of many echoed in Noll’s chapter on gender in his book American Evangelical Christianity. Surveying the history of generations of Christian women who have been caught in the swinging pendulum of encouraged support and quieted veiling, Noll notes that the issue of gender has made a prominent mark on evangelical history. Research completed by prominent women in both the secular and sacred fields reveal that the role of women in the Church, public domain, and the arena of the Christian home and family, is a role everyone seems to care about – regardless of gender or opinion.

The pendulum effect can be seen throughout the history Noll presents. Although not the norm, Jarena Lee and Julia Fotte (both African American women) were placed in prominent positions of church leadership at the turn of the 20th century , while today 100 years later, women must actively seek out church denominations and faith communities that will openly support the calling God has laid on their heart.

Noll describes historical time periods where women were not only actively seeking the opportunity to lead in the Church, but also were themselves actively serving in the country and throughout the world in positions of church leadership. Today, however, many evangelical women have found themselves on the opposite side of the pendulum, submerged in a 21st century evangelical church culture that has segregated them from Adam, emphasizing a disproportionate understanding of submission and traditional gender-roles while focusing on the patriarchy of the Trinity instead of the unity found within it. This major swing throughout the last century has lead to what Canadian theologian John Stackhouse notes as a “speechless majority” , a majority of women in the church who are behind-the-scenes, out of the public eye, supportive or submissive to their male counter, and who might otherwise choose to remain “speechless”.

On this point I must interject. At some of the most critical points in history Christians have remained silent. While millions have lost their lives for the sake of Gospel, millions continue to live on with the opportunity to be apart of God’ s transformation of the world. For every woman in America that has the opportunity to speak out, take leadership, actively serve, participate in public affairs, and become engaged in life and ministry in and outside of the home– there are 3 women elsewhere in the world that will never have that opportunity. This ratio of 1:3 gives a true definition to the term “speechless majority”.

One of the challenges the evangelical church will face as it heads into a post-modern context is a generation of young people who will seek out the core of Christianity. At this core they will find Jesus and the dogma that has defined the Church for years. This generation will then hold a mirror up to the Church to see if it truly reflects Jesus and the answer will hinge on what is found in the mirror. If it does not reflect Jesus the Church will fail, as it will no longer be what it was intended to be. The role of women in ministry is not Church Dogma nor even doctrine, there was never any doubt, however, how Jesus treated women.

In his book Irresistible Revolution liberation theologian Shane Claiborne (my projection not his self-address) quotes the martyred Danish pastor Kaj Munk, “For what Christians lack is not psychology or literature….we lack a holy rage- the recklessness which comes from the knowledge of God and humanity.” He continues on to discuss how at times Christians need to not only care, but act in the face of human-made boundaries and injustice and that these things require us to use whatever we have, even if all we have is our voice, our prayers, or each other. For the Church in the 21st century, this is a calling that must be considered, regardless of gender, race, or class.

As is found in the book of Ecclesiastes, there are seasons for everything. There are times for silence and there are times when the speechless need to speak. There are also times when the silent need to let those who want to speak do so. Women make up the strong majority of Western evangelicals, and the opportunity to become a ‘holy rage’ and partake in God’s transformation with the unified Church, not a segregated, labeled, error-free social club, is very real. As the pendulum of history continues to swing, will it head dramatically in the opposite direction or settle somewhere in between? If the professor’s comment is true, the mirror might reflect a Church that has become its own worst enemy. Unfortunately for us, that is exactly what the enemy wanted all along.

Let us seek to be the unified Church that might be worthy to carry the Gospel.

The Spirit Makes Known

2007-09-29T01:10:00.001-05:00

*Many of the Monks are now locked out of their place of worship because of the current unrest

*These are Buddisht Nuns - over 300 participated in the protests....

What would make a religious sect known for peace and inner solitude march on a oppressive regime.....? At the heart of God lies love and justice - and those who acknolwedge His presence know this core. Justice, ultimate liberation, and reconciliation have always been the plan since the fall - let us be about His work in this world. Christians, pray for your Buddhist brothers and sisters - pray that their prayers are answered by God and pray that the oppression in Myanmar, North Korea, Darfur, inner city America... will end.

Aren't up to speed with the current events going on in Old Burma? Check out the link below.... http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/asia-pacific/7010202.stm

Don't mess with the big guy

2007-09-20T22:47:00.000-05:00

Came across this article today. All things are possible.....

'God' Apparently Responds to Lawsuit
By NATE JENKINS (Associated Press Writer)
From Associated Press
September 20, 2007 10:18 PM EDT
LINCOLN, Neb. - A legislator who filed a lawsuit against God has gotten something he might not have expected: a response. One of two court filings from "God" came Wednesday under otherworldly circumstances, according to John Friend, clerk of the Douglas County District Court in Omaha.

"This one miraculously appeared on the counter. It just all of a sudden was here - poof!" Friend said.

State Sen. Ernie Chambers of Omaha sued God last week, seeking a permanent injunction against the Almighty for making terroristic threats, inspiring fear and causing "widespread death, destruction and terrorization of millions upon millions of the Earth's inhabitants."

Chambers, a self-proclaimed agnostic who often criticizes Christians, said his filing was triggered by a federal lawsuit he considers frivolous. He said he's trying to makes the point that anybody can sue anybody.

Not so, says "God." His response argues that the defendant is immune from some earthly laws and the court lacks jurisdiction.

It adds that blaming God for human oppression and suffering misses an important point.

"I created man and woman with free will and next to the promise of immortal life, free will is my greatest gift to you," according to the response, as read by Friend.

There was no contact information on the filing, although St. Michael the Archangel is listed as a witness, Friend said.

A second response from "God" disputing Chambers' allegations lists a phone number for a Corpus Christi law office. A message left for that office was not immediately returned Thursday.

Attempts to reach Chambers by phone and at his Capitol office Thursday were unsuccessful.

God will help her if you do not.....

2007-09-11T22:06:00.000-05:00

I was reading up on the Portland homeless programs tonight to see where and how I can become more involved.
I found this. I'm not sure what makes me more upset - the situation itself, the fact that this woman is so calcified and isolated from compassion and understanding about poverty and need, or that I once thought like her....

"It does seem that a large number of homeless are young teens rebelling for whatever reason who get hooked up in drugs which then take over their lives.

Broke my heart this weekend to see a pregnant youth sitting with her dog and a sign asking for help....her 'friend' up the street, obviously high on meth, asked my husband if he had given her $$$. When he said no she said, "You should give my friend $$$. She's pregnant and needs an abortion!" Well, I can tell you that if we had given her $$$, it would NOT have gone to an abortion (which I am opposed to but don't feel it is my right to tell others what to do) at 8 months pregnant....and the one who suffers the most is this unborn child who will live a life full of disability (most likely FAS or something else affecting brain development) because their mother used drugs while pregnant....sigh....why IS it society's problem and not these kids' parents????? Where did parenting go?????

I'm so thrilled to move to PDX next month but am, myself, terrified about raising my kids in an area where drugs may or may not be more readily accessible. I will take them to visit rehab places and soup kitchens throughout their childhood so they can witness first hand what choices in life can bring you...."

Lord have mercy-Christ have mercy

**Portland has a plan - check out the video -Homeless Connect - Portland's 10 year plan**
http://www.portlandhomelessconnect.com/

Life at Cannon Beach

2007-08-11T22:03:00.000-05:00

Encountering Yoda

2007-06-19T01:08:00.000-05:00

After a year of tossing and turning, praying and crying, dreaming and learning how to say goodbye – I have found myself living a new phase of my life in Oregon – Cannon Beach to be exact. It is far more beautiful then I had dreamed and it’s God’s beauty that blesses me here. My time at Cannon has been a slow transition, but now three weeks into my time here I am finding my way. Cannon is like many other coastal touristy towns – the places the tourists go and the tourists themselves, and the other side of CB is the life of a town that hosts these tourists. Simple people who sell kites, or own the local bar, or make pizza by the slice, or work in the bakery – simple people who love the ocean and this place and their big dogs that run through the tide at sunset. CB is a simple place and with it comes a refreshing peace despite the tourists it brings in.

It’s been a great blessing getting to know some of the “locals” here. Desiring to get out and play on Friday nights I sought out the local coffee hang out to see if they would be interested in having a musician come once a week. They agreed – and from it I have started to form a handful of new friendships – plus a place to play and stretch myself as an artist on Friday nights. This last Friday I made $25 singing for passer-bys outside the coffee hang – not bad for an hour of my favorite hobby. The pizza shop around the corner hosts a great group of folks who are fun and easy going – tonight I shot the breeze with them as I grabbed a late slice of great pizza. The most moving thing, however, happened tonight as I headed to the beach to watch the sunset.

As I was about to turn the corner for the lookout, pizza slice in hand, I noticed this little old man who seemed crippled – he was carrying cardboard from a building to a van. I passed by him at first and then looked back to see how much more cardboard he had to carry – the pile was bigger then him. I went back to him and asked him if he needed help – it’s then that I realized that he looked like Yoda – and that I had better help him or he might use the force against me – no really – I began to help him with the cardboard. I carried big piles back and forth from the doorway to the van. While we worked he told me that he had really bad arthritis and that his hands hurt him, he told me how he picked up cardboard from most of the main shops in CB and takes them to the recycling center in the mornings. My new friend moved me. I wanted to somehow run into him every night when he was moving cardboard. I didn’t want him to do it on his own, actually I wanted him to be sitting in a nice easy chair, sipping warm tea by a fire with a faithful dog at his side while he enjoyed Jeopardy and the company of a nice older lady. I didn’t want him working at 8pm at night – hauling loads of gross cardboard by himself. It seemed unfair to me – he could have been at least 80.

But then I realized that I only understood one aspect of his story and he mine. And that for one moment our lives intersected, and that my God is his God and the God that loves me and provides for me loves and provides for him to. I wanted justice for what I thought I understood – I needed to seek God’s justice and just be willing to serve and trust. These issues of justice tug at me. It is a conversation I believe we will have a lot here at CBCC this summer. What does it mean to be united in Christ? How do we live out justice in our own lives? What does mercy have to do with me? How do rich Christians – or how should rich Christians live in an age of hunger? What does the gospel mean in light of equality? These are issues that have already surfaced in my time here and I look forward to seeing what God has for us and the lessons He wants to teach us this summer in light of them, including myself.

My new friend was very thankful and I wished him well and told him that if I ever saw him again I would stop and help him. As I walked off he said, “Even though I’m little and slow, I still get the job done.” Such wisdom Yoda – I thought. May the force be with you friend.

For those of you who have been looking for my new address:

PO Box 908
Cannon Beach OR 97110
*My birthday is next Tuesday!!! Feel free to send cards or packages…;)

Eastern Oregon

2007-06-01T00:44:00.000-05:00

Beautiful does not acurately describe Eastern Oregon. The scenery changed from desert to prarie to rolling mountains to cliffs with lush forrests. As we turned the final peak mountain corner to descend over 500ft into the valley we were amazed at the landscape - as far as the eye could see was green Oregon, - farms, forest, and beautiful earth. When we finally reached our hotel in Pendleton - 3 hours out of Portland, I took off my shoes and walked through the grass. The smell of the earth and the feel of it on my toes was refreshing. I love this place-I don't know why, but there is something about it that makes me so calm. I belong here, her winds call to me on the prarie. The way the sun fell on the Oregon floor outside our resturaunt window told me that peace is coming my way. I could use a bit of peace these days.

Thank you Mr. Miagi for getting us here and thank you Oregon for your welcome. In the morning on to the city.....

Salt Lake City

2007-05-31T00:36:00.001-05:00

Salt Lake City is incredible. After spending hours wandering through the plains of Wyoming and winding through the rockies to peak my way through the crevases, I landed in a beautiful place known for its mormans and mountains. The moon rose high above the snow capped peaks tonight. It was a gentle reminder to a long day that God is present everywhere and good all the time.

Yesterday I had the pleasure to spend time in Denver. When I arrived I was surprised to be greeted by snow and sleet - but hey, it is the mile high city. Good news about the car, the Mazda people tell me it's just the tred on my new tires..?/?.. i pray they are right - still a bit more to go. I spent last night with new friends, we chatted over late bowls of ice cream - Asia, the dysfunction in public school systems, religion, family - it was wonderful to be with great people and in a warm home, not a lousy Days Inn in the middle of no-where Kansas. Tonight I will sleep on Red Lion Inn sheets - which don't smell like smoke and cheap aftershave, thank God.

I am nervous over many things that aren't important - Will my car make it through the mountain range tomorrow with all the weight? Did I loose my disposable camera at the lookout point in Wyoming? Will I run out of 'trip cash' before I reach Portland? Instead, I want to focus my mind on what matters, on being the woman God is creating me to be - to think of the future without worry or anxiety, to love though hard moments in grace and with compassion, to trust that the God that is leading me thousands of miles into the unknown will not leave me there, that the people I care about and miss will be with me in spirit, that all things are in the hands of God and all I need to do is be obedient.

Perhaps I just need to go to bed, wake up in the morning & shower, find a starbucks and hit the road headed with confidence for Oregon under the watchful eyes of God my Father. I am to arrive there tomorrow you know. Tomorrow I will be in my new home state. Tomorrow.

Middle Earth

2007-05-28T21:40:00.000-05:00

I am currently in the center of the United States. I'm not sure if you can get any more centered then Salinas Kansas. It is flat here but beautiful, trajic but wise. Lots of hills and cows, silos and truckers- and the OZ museaum I had to pass up to make it to my Days Inn Hotel before nightfall. It has been a long day. My car needs work - tear, and the morning will come soon to get me back on the road headed for Colorado and her mountains. Each mile takes me further from the south and closer to the mountains, further from my past and closer to my future and in the present I wait silent in the tension.

I hope Frodo brings me some coffee in the morning.

St. Louis

2007-05-27T22:03:00.000-05:00

Yesterday I left Tampa to move to Portland Oregon. It's a strange feeling of excitment and sadness, apprehension and joy. I have been blessed to have my best friend Janelle do the trip with me thus far. Yesterday we traveled from Tampa to Atlanta and today Atlanta to St. Louis. She will head back to Philly tomorrow and I will travel through Kansas alone. In many ways I am looking forward to the time alone, -reflection time on what I have left and what I am heading into. I am so grateful for my time in Tampa and have forever been changed by my time there-my cup truly over flows.

Sunflower state here I come and then onto the Rockies.....what an adventure.

The Countdown

2007-05-15T23:28:00.000-05:00

In 10 days I will leave Tampa to move to Portland Oregon
Can life be this beautiful?
I was never made for palm trees.

Oh Augustana...

2007-05-01T23:32:00.000-05:00

she said i think i'll go to boston...
i think i'll start a new life,
i think i'll start it over, where no one knows my name,
i'll get out of california, i'm tired of the weather,
i think i'll get a lover and fly em out to spain...
i think i'll go to boston,
i think that i'm just tired
i think i need a new town, to leave this all behind...
i think i need a sunrise, i'm tired of the sunset,
i hear it's nice in the summer, some snow would be nice...
boston...where no one knows my name...

Baby slothy - ahhhh so cute

2007-04-09T02:05:00.000-05:00

So cute..... check it out

Aviarios del Caribe ~ Sloth Rescue Center in Limon, Costa Rica

The sloth in this video was orphaned, and is now cared for by the good people at Aviarios del Caribe. For more information, visit http://www.ogphoto.com/slothrescuecen...
This footage was taken while on a country-wide excursion through costa rica. Regretfully, this is not my pet sloth and I have no involvement in its upbringing. I'm sure the experienced and knowledgeable staff at A.D.C. will release it back into the wild when it is old and healthy enough to be able to survive on its own

April 14th: The world is burning and no one cares....

2007-04-09T00:36:00.000-05:00

Friends - our world, this precious gift from God, is becoming victim to our abuse of it. Global warming isn't just a funny hypothesis anymore, people- liberal, conservative, inside the church and outside - are acknowledging it. There is something we can do....take a look at the info for Step It Up 2007. This is the baby of 8 Middleburry students in Vermont who said, enough is enough.

Please join me in St. Pete on the 14th.
Blessings & Happy Easter

This is our organizing hub for a National Day of Climate Action--April 14th, 2007. On this one spring day, there will be hundreds and hundreds of rallies all across the country. We hope to have gatherings in every state, and in many of America's most iconic places: on the levees in New Orleans, on top of the melting glaciers on Mt. Rainier, even underwater on the endangered coral reefs off Key West.

We also need rallies outside churches, along the tide lines in our coastal cities, in cornfields and forests and on statehouse steps. Every group will be saying the same thing: "Step it up, Congress! Cut Carbon 80% by 2050." As people gather, we'll link pictures of the protests together electronically via the web--before the weekend is out, we'll have the largest protest the country has ever seen, not in numbers but in extent. From every corner of the nation we'll start to shake things up.

Step It UP Tampa Bay!!

Pinellas Park, FL

April 14, 2007 12:00PM to 02:00PM

Event Description:
Come learn about global warming and speak out for change! Renewable Energy Fair! Bring a picnic lunch and/or Frisbee, etc... Live local music (band and DJ) Educational displays on renewable energy Fun environmental crafts for kids Ride a bike, walk, take the bus or carpool to the rally (Please use the lowest emission method possible for your transportation to the event.) Feel free to bring your own sign. You can find tips on making signs on this web site. After the festivities, we will all be gathering in mass to take a group photo that will be posted on the Step It Up web site and sent to Congress. Come help us make an impact!!! We need your support.

Location:
Pinellas Park Town Square Plaza 5121 80th Terrace North Pinellas Park, FL. 33781

Directions:
Please note, map on this web site is incorrect. The event is in Pinellas Park, not Largo. England Brothers Bandshell (Town Square Plaza) Near the intersection of 49th St. and 66th St. If you are traveling East on Park Blvd. from 66 street, you turn left on 52nd Street. If you are going West on Park Blvd, you turn right on 52nd Street. From 52nd Street you will come to a red light. City Hall will be on the right hand side. Go through the red light, and right as you pass City Hall, you will see a big open park, that is the venue. The location is right on the corner of 52nd Street and 80th Avenue.

Our request of Congress is simple: that they put America on a course to cut carbon emissions 80% by the middle of the century.

This sounds like a lot-but in fact, it's less than a two percent reduction a year. It won't be easy: it will take commitment and resources to switch from fossil fuels to new sources of energy. But it needs to be done: the latest science tells us that temperatures are increasing faster than expected, and the results are showing up in melting ice caps, intensifying storms, and rising sea levels. America's foremost climatologist, NASA scientist James Hansen, has said that we have just a few years to start reducing carbon emissions, and he's endorsed our goal of 80% by 2050. That won't prevent global warming-it's already too late for that-but it may be enough to stave off the most catastrophic effects.

While few experts have said explicitly "we need to reduce carbon emissions 80% by 2050," we're sticking to this message. Here's why: Scientists have resisted in nearly every case prescribing policy because they don't want to enter the political realm. That's why the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) and others won't suggest policy, but rather leave it up to legislators to do the dirty work. That said, Jim Hansen, the Stern Report, the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), a number of European countries, the State of California and others (including the new USCAP business-environmental partnership) have either suggested or explicitly referred to 80% carbon cuts by 2050 as a solution commensurate to the scale of the problem.

And it's possible. The cost of renewable energy is falling fast. New conservation technologies, like hybrid cars, are becoming more available. Many Americans are starting to switch already, but only leadership from Washington can allow this transformation to happen fast enough. And if we begin to get our house in order, then we can play some role in helping China and India steer away from cataclysm as well.

There are no guarantees we'll succeed. But if we act ambitiously, we have reason to hope.

Taize again - like fresh air.....

2007-03-25T23:34:00.000-05:00

At the end of April I will be joining 1000+ young adults in Monteral for a Taize meeting. The topic - "Leaving Discouragement to head into Hope". It will be an incredible time. Interested in coming? Let me know. Je su tre bien.

On Oscar Romero

2007-03-20T22:07:00.000-05:00

"Oscar Romero was converted by suffering:
the suffering of a friend, of the people he served, and then finally his own suffering. There are many ways to be converted, but perhaps the best way is to live among the poor, and to discover in them as Romero did, the presence of Christ."

-Samuel Ruiz Garcia, Bishop of San Cristobal, Chiapas Mexico

*From the Gallery of 20th century martyrs at Westminster Abbey-
Mother Elizabeth of Russia, Revd. Martin Luther King, Archbishop Oscar Romero and Pastor Dietrich Bonhoeffer

>Not sure who Oscar Romero is? Click the link at the side bar under 'people to know'.

A Story Worth Dying For....

2007-03-16T00:02:00.000-05:00

Today Bishop Peter Storey spoke at Asbury. He was amazing. Really it was his story -true and raw, about the Gospel. I feel like I use that term a lot these days. I hope I never use it so much that others think I've watered it down. Regardless - he talked about how the church sells the Gospel and way too cheap. You know - carrots. God I hate them. God doesn't need carrots. But later Peter talked about South Africa - which although it will always his home, has a tainted past. He told us about how people are re-starting - trying life again after years of pain and oppression and division. Desmund Tutu says that there can be no future without forgiveness, and there can be no forgiveness without remembering. Powerful stuff. He talked to us about the danger of the Gospel. That we should be prepared for danger and death. That we have already died - so why should we fear. He talked about apathy and non-violent resistance - about standing boldly for something that is worth God's time. That people are the image of God - not the image of Caesar on a coin. He moved that room to make it feel like we were sitting on the threshold of something big - something very big. And that if we believed these things - that we could change the world one protest, one bold move, one strong word that tells the world, the economy, the rulers on high, the hypocritical religious figures - "NO - we can not stand for it anymore" - if we truly believed these things then we would truly believe in the Gospel. A story worth dying for.

And friends - I am crazy - absolutely insane, because I believe him - because I want to live that way - I want to see the world that way - I want to get in the game and get out of the 'break room'. I believe it and believe it is worth my life. God - it was a good word today. You can't listen to Peter Story and not want to change the world. For him, this life is worth nothing less. This wasn't some get-ready-for-Easter- Lenten sermon - it was a 'wake up' alarm. Maybe it’s my youth, my naivety, my angst, and my optimism - or maybe it’s the way God made me. That I should be stirred inside over injustice and pain - that these things roll out of my body like water overflowing a cup- standing in the shadows of the prophets wondering about their lives and if they thought they were crazy as well. Maybe I was made that way. Either way - it's who I am and the calling being etched out for my life.

It's been a shitty week - but what a beautiful word. I stayed behind to shake his hand - just to tell him thank you. He has more rooms to shake and more ears to challenge.

It's Friday - but Sunday's coming.

Currently inspired by: Derek Webb "New Law"

The hopeful take the Kingdom by force...

2007-03-06T01:23:00.000-05:00

God will use whoever He chooses to bring in the Kingdom. Poverty is not a burden, it's an adventure.

Look what I found tonight....

2007-02-27T02:09:00.000-05:00

This makes me giggle. Seriously.........
(sorry - inside joke)

Amazing movie - Amazing Grace

2007-02-25T00:14:00.000-05:00

Tonight I saw, by far, one of the best movies I have ever seen. Amazing Grace is the incredible - and oh so beautiful - cinema painting of William Wilberforce's fight for the abolition of slavery in England (18th century). It was such a beautiful piece of art. Please see it.

I would blog about it - but an Asbury professor does such a great job I'll just submit his blog link -it is on the side bar under 'change the world'. If you have the time, please see this movie -either by yourself with great friends....just go see it.

Favorite lines:

"We're too young to know that some things are impossible -so let's do them anyway."

"We have heard that you are contemplating between a life devoted to God or a life of political activism. We're here to tell you humbly, that you can do both."

"How can we live in houses like these when there are people living in boxes?"

The Kingdom

2007-02-21T23:09:00.000-05:00

The Kingdom of God is not a matter of eating or drinking, but of righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit, because anyone who serves Christ in this way is pleasing to God….
-Romans 14:17-18a

Being a second year seminary student, I find solace in the quiet corners of book stores or coffee shops-biding my time to reading and studying. No matter how quiet the corner, however, I still find myself reaching for little light green pieces of soft foam that have become my friends over these years- my earplugs. Although at first I found it silly to be sitting there, ears plugged looking like an introverted alien in the midst of conversation and living community, I soon found them to be comforting, enabling me to focus on what was important in my studies. I became engaged with the writers and their teachings, and found myself invited into scripture for reflection and consideration-free from the audible distractions of my outside environment-what a great invention.

The preparation seasons in the church are my favorite because they say to me, “stop, consider, and focus.” Lent, which can be seen as a season for denial, instead seems to me as a season of invitation. In his passage to the Romans, Paul is very clear about what we should fix our focus on – the Kingdom of God.
Paul invites us on the journey of focusing our energy and our lives to Christ’s message of the Kingdom. This journey is marked with the mile markers of righteousness and justice, peace and mercy, and the joy that comes through the empowerment and blessing of the Holy Spirit which we have been given to become such Kingdom travelers. To focus on these things, to add them into our lives- so they become our life, to move away from the mundane in order to engage and travel with the eternal, is what I believe Paul is asking of us here.
It is what I believe Lent should be about.

During this season of preparation we are invited to journey with Christ to Jerusalem and then Golgotha. Let us travel with Him, focusing on these Kingdom attributes along the way.

Consider some ear plugs, you might need them.

Wednesday nights

2007-02-07T23:36:00.000-05:00

Tonight the new girl told me boldly the list of books - so proud of her knowledge.
I've memorized them she said - for the pure understanding that it was through choice that she should know her Bible. That somehow, for some reason it would be good and right.
She knew all the answers
trust
love
He is with me always -inside and out
and she danced in the back of the room to songs about Jesus and mystery, unashamed and fully emracing joy. It was beautiful.

They inspire me and i love them so much it hurts.

Sabbath

2007-02-03T21:22:00.000-05:00

It's a grey rainy day in Tampa. Not Tampa weather at all really. Beging to be something she's not, this southern town is embracing the weather of the northern coasts-cold mist and drissle, beckoning sweaters and Northface. I love my friends today. They are good people - dancing and living and singing all around me. This place is hard to be, but we still sing and dance and drink glasses of cold white Oregon wine on patios still lit with white Christmas lights. Everything seems right. Today I decided I would buy a banjo -its sound reminds me of breaking free (from the prison I'm in - my therapist reminds me). Regardless, once I sell my Washburn I think I might buy one used, or cheap, or old and beautiful- to play by myself by the waters or in the cities or on Friday nights at Jakes- tunes that swirl in and out of my mind and body. What a great Saturday. Perhaps I am learing what it truly means to embrace this gift that has been given to me - known as Sabbath. Or simply the deepness and refreshment that comes from "no-ah" -God's rest.

Currently listening to (and being forever inspired by): Sufjan Stevens - "Romulus"

looking at my walls...

2007-01-24T22:22:00.000-05:00

I was thinking about sending you back all your things but then I realized that I wasn't in the mood for vengance...
they just make me sad.

World - Ella, Ella meet World....

2007-01-16T22:26:00.000-05:00

This is the most beautiful girl in the world -born to one of my best gals Sunday morning -early. Incredible. I love her.
Julie and Will - many many many many blessings. I can't wait to meet her. She's gonna be wicked smart.

Love: Simple reflection on a difficult week

2007-01-11T22:20:00.000-05:00

Within these strange days that have passed me both in a blur and at a tortuous slow speed, I have found rest in having felt the deepness of love. Evil was present - don't get me wrong. Hard things -injustice, hatred, and ignorance were all there and everyone knew it, but as my friend says - "It's like the phoenix rising out of the ashes."

Love is patient Love is Kind

I was hurt - not just because it affected me, but because it was wrong. These days I can't help but say 'wrong' when something is wrong. That's what I was hoping for. One voice to stand up in that room to say "That is wrong and we cannot accept it". The church cannot accept it. Jesus cannot accept it. no voice spoke those words.

It is not envious it does not boast it is not proud

I went to the ocean at Midnight and wrestled with my Creator. Was it in His plan? To watch me cry-see me in pain- see them in pain- to have the pregnant teenagers know that perhaps they might not have been wanted - because of their situation, bank account balance, color of their skin? It was wrong.

It is not rude it is not self seeking it is not easily angered

But we stood at the communion moment - where reconciliation cannot be denied or broken or spared for anyone. We make right at the cross and with this in mind I made my peace and ate your feast. And although difficult at times, felt your love wash over me like grace - to remind me that you are present, you are here, you are apart of me, and you will use the darkest moments of our lives to create grace and life for others.

Love keeps no records of wrongs

So I felt the love you lavished -
in the beauty of the flowers on my desk
in the tears of compassion and empathy shed
in the words that come from members of a family

Love does not delight in evil but rejoices in truth

in the letters of so many who wanted to speak out but didn't -Tuesday - 3 months ago - 4 years in the future (missed moments). Words that sought apology and understanding, repentance, and forgiveness.
New friends and old

Love always protects

In the faces of innocent youth who know only the pure fight for justice now - yet to be revealed to the harshness of how difficult it can be when we are not willing to be so vulnerable - like toddlers - any more.

always trusts

in the trust of a new friend who sat to listen and understand -willing to walk the journey and hold my hand.
in the smile that comes-inside and out of me-as I feel his care in his kindness.

always hopes

in moving forward - that we are not the same people we were when we woke at the beginning of the week. in our knowledge that things can't stay the same and shouldn't.

always perseveres

in your embrace by the might of the ocean- calling me back to the woman you have made me to be - full of love and hope and grace,

love never fails

in the truth that at the end of the day - he sought to be right. To be the better person - the person who God had intended him to be. and for that we can only say Amen and again I say Amen.

I told the pastor that at my core I am no worse then he. Our skin color just looks a little different. Hopefully we will learn from each other how to be about this world and the great things God is etching, sculpting into the hearts of humanity.
In the meantime - this weekend I will relax, reflect on the love that has vanquished darkness and hatred, and enjoy my roses. They sure are beautiful and lovely.

Ha!

2006-12-14T15:14:00.000-05:00

Yeah! Done.
I love Jesus again.

(no- that isn't me. I was a very cute toddler. Still am)

Less then 24 hours.....

2006-12-14T00:43:00.000-05:00

I feel like the last kid in the library before Christmas. Everyone has left, except the janitor and the computer lab is quite. You feel focused, yet distracted by your alone-ness. There is hope on the horizon, and once you finish you can join the rest of the world in their joy. I wonder if the janitor ever feels left out. I wonder if I will miss my place in the quite.

Do I really want to do this.
I am tired of writing, thinking, wrestling.

Tonight the thing I love is a bit like thing I hate
Yuck

I hate that feeling

We would be such a nice couple...

2006-12-11T23:35:00.000-05:00

Sufi -Share this Christmas album with someone you care for this holiday season

Sufjan Stevens - Songs for Christmas

Boyz of 98'

2006-12-09T23:15:00.000-05:00

I found this picture while catching up with old high school friends. It actually appears on many of these boyz' pages.
If and only If you are Maloney High School- class of 1998 - can you appreciate the sher 'awe' and 'wonderfullness' of this pciture. Yes - this is Sr. Prom and these were "those boyz" that made high school interesting. 10 year reunion should be interesting.

I do truly love this picture though - here's to you, fellas.

Best thing this week: (but so sad)

2006-12-07T23:43:00.000-05:00

Tonight I was at my usual hiding spot to write - local bookstore.
So this is what the graffiti on my restroom stall read:

'Send all liberals to France'

-even better, this is what someone wrote in reply"

'Send all conservatives to hell - they love to talk about it!'

*Church -Need I say more?

Last Words

2006-11-29T23:14:00.000-05:00

The following is the last speech I will deliver for my communication class tomorrow night.

I dedicate it to my Middle School Boys:
Thank you for wanting to change the world.
------

“It’s hard to beat the system
When we’re standing at a distance
So we keep on waiting
For the world to change”

These are the words to John Mayer’s new song. Waiting for the world to change. In his lyrics he goes to tell how it’s hard for the current young generation to really impact the world – “It’s not that we don’t care we just know that the fight’s not fair so we keep on waiting for the world to change.” These words from the pop artist who’s used to speaking about love and high school memories – has made quite the statement here with such mature lyrics. In the end however, sadly, John has decided- for himself and for his generation, to wait – for the world to change.

At times I think this a song the church likes to sing. Around the holidays, yes, we empty our cupboards and collect canned goods for the local collection. An Operation Christmas box or two, toys for tots, Salvation Army. But for the common days when the holidays aren’t around, or when we feel awkward in the face of poverty and need – regardless of time or setting-what is our response? Is John Mayer far from the truth? Are we waiting for someone else to step in? Do we believe as well it is hard to impact the world? I know 8 middle school boys that would tell you differently.

Last night both Middle School adult leaders for the boys small group were missing in action. Having left frantic messages about business meetings and travel on my office phone several hours prior, I found myself responsible for the small group last night. I work well with girls, I have a small group of my own – but the middle school boys – I love them, but let’s just say I was nervous. What would we do – their regular leaders were not there to break out the dodge balls so I was left to fill the hour and ½ slot. One idea kept popping into my head, although I wasn’t sure they would buy it. Our church had started collecting Boxes of Hope for the local homeless ministry in the city. Folks from the church were to take empty cardboard boxes home and filling them with foodstuffs and canned goods, enough to supply a family with hearty Christmas Meal. I knew that in one hour we could fill one of these boxes if we went to a nearby neighborhood to ask for canned goods. The plan was set – I gathered the middle school boys, filed them into the church mini bus, gave them their mission for the night – and away we went. Enroot the conversation began. Joe, the youngest of the group spoke first.

No one is going to give us anything.
Do you really think that? I asked
Why would they give us anything? Joe asked
I think we’ll get a lot – Sam pitched in – the oldest and the leader of the group.
I don’t Jesse commented.
Can we play manhunt instead – John asked
This is going to be boring.

As we piled out of the bus I was nervous, the boys approached the first house sheeply and froze as the first women answered the door. The request fumbled out of Sam's mouth – she hesitated and said,

You’re from the church?

Yes ma'am – they said in a chorus – I’ll be right back. Moments later she had contributed 2 items and thanked the boys for their efforts sending us on our way. The boys were glad, but not yet persuaded that they would be successful with their mission and when it came to the second house, they were apathetic.

I can’t do it– it’s too hard – Joe said lazily. I don’t want to speak- you do it – the boys went back and forth.

But by the time they had gotten to the 3rd house and the box began to get heavy – something changed in them, they realized that maybe, just maybe, they could fill this box and collect beyond that. Maybe they could make a difference.

The boys decided to split into two groups. They were now running from house to house. Bags of food and blankets were becoming heavy and the box was breaking from the weight. We grabbed the bus unloaded and headed out again. The boys were critiquing how each asked the request and soon they were arguing over who got to ask at the next house. Joe was the loudest, it was him who wanted to ask and somewhere between the bus and the collection, getting the request just right was very important to him. He did a great job.

Their excitement became giggles and joy as we piled over the different cans we had collected and the stories of the people whom we had briefly come into contact with – and soon enough the hour was over. We piled back into the mini bus and headed back to church. On the ride back I asked them what they thought of their time. They shared how they became surprised when people didn’t give – so many had – why would others not?

As they counted the items they debated how many people their collection could feed. They were not satisfied. Within the hour my middle school boys had collected over 70 cans, jars, and boxes of food – one full bag of clothing – 8 blankets – and $5. I was so proud of them, but for them it wasn’t enough.

Melissa... – Joe asked, we only hit up 2 blocks and we collected all of this. I bet if we went up and down the street we could get 500 items. And if everyone in Tampa gave one thing we could feed all the homeless in the city and more. We could fill this bus with food. That would be awesome – that would make an impact.

I turned and smiled and said -Absolutely Joe- it would.

Jesus told us that if we faithful in the small things then we will be faithful in the big things. I truly believe that people want to change the world in big ways, but yet I find that we are not willing to try it out in the little things first.

If we never act because we think it’s too hard, then no – we will never impact this world enough to change it.

If we never give the homeless man the money, because he might buy that drink

If we never make the phone call to the widow to invite her over for dinner

If we never give all the cash in our wallet on a Sunday morning
– then no, we will never impact this world enough to change it – then John Mayer is right, maybe we are just waiting.

But Church there is good news. We have been given the keys to the kingdom and have been called accordingly to His purpose. God desires to bring about His kingdom and we have been called to this Kingdom work while we are still here. God desires to use the church in this way, but if the church does not step up – He will use whatever medium, group, organization He chooses to bring about His plan. But His desire is that it is through the Church – the responsibility is ours.

We cannot be passive participants in this journey – waiting for the world to change. Joe doubted we could fill a box of Hope, but at the end of the night he was ready to fill more. Within 1 hour my middle school boy went from being apathetic and lazy to engaged and compassionate. I believe that God desires that from everyone. When we are faithful in the small things, then God will entrust us with being faithful in the big things. Tis the Season to give, but even more so, when Christmas is over how will you continue to be about this transforming Kingdom work?

Jesus told the disciples that if we are faithful in the small things then we will be faithful in the big things. Let us not sit by and wait for the world to change, but instead be the change we hope to see in this world.

**At the side bar there is a list of a handful of organizations that are national and local -if interested, you, your family, or someone you know, can become involved in. Please consider them -throughout the holiday season and all year long.

If you do anything....

2006-11-01T23:39:00.000-05:00

...please check out this amazing musician. This is Denison Witmer. He is an incredible song writer and player. His song off his latest album Little Flowers - was heard on the Invisible Children documentary- looking at the issue of the war in Northern Uganda and the lives of the children that live in fear. His new album is Are you a Dreamer - buy it today- but also check out Stations - from his earlier works. You will be sold once you listen. Sufi plays on his latest album ( we all thought DW was just some neat newbie). DW loves all the best places in the country - Boston, NY, and Seattle, plays the banjo, and tours Sweden (uffda we'll need to see him over there when I come out). I can't say enough about him - check out the link on my side bar - it leads to his myspace.

Move over John Mayer- the real deal just started finger picking.
Denison- feel free to stop by anytime...

This was for me

2006-10-10T22:57:00.000-05:00

Today was a good day.
We know these moments when they come because they are refreshing and gentle. It's like the pause at the top of the mountain, or the lookout view after the final push that makes you understand that all the energy and hard work was worth the effort. It is accomplishment, understanding, and blessing all into one. It was the small things - the conversation, the surprise, the meal, the thought, the smile-cool weather, an appology given, a thanks rendered, a moment that made me stop and pause and truly consider. A mixture of great puzzle pieces that form one beautiful picture of a day. It is peace and strength, truth and hope. Joy. The thought that all along you knew exactly where you were headed yet were the only one who ever doubted. The strength in realization. Breathing air that is only supplied by the one who is truly in control of all. It is His. Words cannot express, they can do no justice. It was a great day. This was mine, this was for me.
Today was a blessing. Thank you.

U2charist facts

2006-10-04T23:06:00.000-05:00

U2charist was amazing. 585 people. $5200 raised for bread for the world - hunger group. I voice united to our Lord.
Such worship. So beautiful. Check out the pics at:

http://www.hydeparkumc.org/default.aspx?id=159

or click the link at the side bar.

www.myspace.com/u2charist

Our lives will tell if we love Him

2006-10-01T22:55:00.000-05:00

Tonight hundreds of people gathered to become a voice for the voiceless.

What will you do to change the world?
When are you going to stop living lives of significance in order to love others into significance?
When will this stop being about you?

These were the questions tonight. Despite the amazing music and powerful imagery we witnessed, it was our unity in this moment, this journey that was impacting. Will we come together, laying everything down for our brother, and help usher in the kingdom? Or will we let the millions cry out and ignore them, covering our ears to their pain.

Their pain is our pain.
You only get one life - do something.....

www.one.org
www.bloodwatermission.org
www.bread.org
www.worldvision.org
www.heifer.org
www.missionyear.org
www.habitat.org

*My favorite U2 song performed tonight by Roger:

I cant believe the news today
Oh, I cant close my eyes and make it go away
How long...
How long must we sing this song?
How long? how long...

cause tonight...
we can be as one
Tonight...

Broken bottles under childrens feet
Bodies strewn across the dead end street
But I wont heed the battle call
It puts my back up
Puts my back up against the wall

Sunday, bloody sunday
Sunday, bloody sunday
Sunday, bloody sunday

And the battles just begun
Theres many lost, but tell me who has won
The trench is dug within our hearts
And mothers, children, brothers, sisters torn apart

Sunday, bloody sunday
Sunday, bloody sunday

How long...
How long must we sing this song?
How long? how long...

cause tonight...we can be as one
Tonight...
Tonight...

Sunday, bloody sunday

Wipe the tears from your eyes
Wipe your tears away
Wipe your tears away
I wipe your tears away
(sunday, bloody sunday)
I wipe your blood shot eyes
(sunday, bloody sunday)

Sunday, bloody sunday (sunday, bloody sunday)
Sunday, bloody sunday (sunday, bloody sunday)

And its true we are immune
When fact is fiction and tv reality
And today the millions cry
We eat and drink while tomorrow they die

The real battle yet begun (sunday, bloody sunday)
To claim the victory Jesus won (sunday, bloody sunday)

Sunday bloody sunday
Sunday bloody sunday...

From Wikpedia:
Bloody Sunday is the term used to describe an incident in Derry, Northern Ireland, on 30 January 1972 in which 26 Irish Civil Rights protestors were shot by members of 1st Battalion of the British Parachute Regiment, during a Northern Ireland Civil Rights Association march in the Bogside area of the city. Thirteen people, six of whom were minors, died immediately, while the death of another person 4½ months later has been attributed to the injuries he received on the day. Two protesters were injured when run down by army vehicles. Many witnesses including bystanders and journalists testify that all those shot were all unarmed. Five of those wounded were shot in the back.

Reflection on love

2006-09-25T22:50:00.000-05:00

Warning: Totally shallow and superfluous blog ahead.....ok so normally I wouldn't take the time to write such a shallow reflection, but I think I am in love with John Mayer. Don't stop reading......It hasn't always been like this, I actually used to think he was a bit of a merck. In Melissa language a merck is someone who doesn't really contribute to the world around them and often times mopes creating either chaos or trouble - and sometimes both. I also use the word 'squirrelly' interchangeably as well. I mean, he seemed like a nice guy and all and his music was catchy and he's a wicked good guitar player, but a merck none the less - sorry John. But since the new album and all I think I'm changing my mind.

A few weeks ago I was over a friend's house and I heard this haunting, jazzy, fresh melody that caught me by surprise. Right away I knew it was him and expected the same old 'your body is a wonderland bit', but I was pleasantly surprised. It was his new song, which was bright and jazzy - about changing the world and feeling rowdy and protester-like. letting your voice, which was voiceless heard- I was diggin it. So I promptly looked up the new CD on itunes, like every new John Mayer lover would do, and found his website. I found out 3 great things from this site...

1. His site hosts 4 songs, including "waiting for the world to change." Now these songs are easy accessible for any John Mayer fan at any time. The site also hosts the music video of my new fav. song which is chey great. It's artsy with the city in the background. There are people who look engaged, angry, ready to stage a revolution.... Graffiti, tattoos, guns down, standing against the man - all good stuff.

2. His site host his blog. John is a blogger - yeah!!! Now, he might not be the most insightful blogger, more 20 something boyish writings about zombies and such, but he writes, and is consistent, and to me, some of his more serious writings and journal logs seem authentic and real and make me want to know him more. I can get behind a man that blogs like that.
Plus, his last few entries were from Portland OR. He likes Portland a lot - hello!!! can we say wedding bells...

3. John Mayer is a good looking man. Normally I wouldn't write such a comment, and looks are hardly very important to me, but he did look quite nice in his video. His New England garb was quite fabulous and that pea coat made him look caring and mysterious - about the world, and wanting to change it.

So there you have it. I'm in love. I can't wait till pay day so I can run out and buy the new CD - the new CD of my future rock star husband John Mayer.

But of course he isn't perfect. He doesn't have neat links on his website that lead to world changing groups like ONE-End poverty, or World Vision, or the Red Cross. I think that if you want to change the world, and have others want to change it with you, you should give people the opportunity to get involved and give and stuff like that-just saying. And I'm not sure if he loves Jesus, which is the most important thing to me. And when I was at the grocery today I noticed in the check out line that he might be dating Jessica Simpson. Hmmm -i don't think i can compete with Jessica Simpson. So maybe it isn't love after all, maybe just infatuation or lust (yikes). But he did look great in that coat.

That's alright, Perhaps I'll just listen to his soothing melodies and be content. That will be enough.
But John if you're reading this..... you can sing me love songs, I won't mind. Jessica doesn't have to know.

***I promise - I am a good blogger. If this blog disappointed you please feel free to read last Saturday night's blog which was much less boy crazy and more contemplative.

Currently Listening to: John Mayer 'I don't trust myself loving you"

Tonight I am breathing

2006-09-23T22:52:00.000-05:00

Tonight I am breathing. In and out. regularly- which can become ir-regular as I am an asthmatic, but tonight in and out. It feels stable and normal and functional. I did not feel this way last tuesday - I was afraid. I have been afraid since Tuesday but feel much better now. It isn't anything large or medically frightening - just fear. It is as old as the moment of Cain taking the breath for Able. I think he must have been afraid.

It is a lie, fear. It locks us in prisons and tells us that no one will resuce us, no one will love us, no one will light this dark long night for you to find your way, no one will believe you can fly - it is a lie. don't believe it. I am learning to trust. If I am honest with myself I know that I can not do this on my own. My mountains are too big, the words are too harsh, this pain is too deep and involved for me to climb - but I know that at the end of the day there is someone who takes my hand and asures me that these things are lies- he will rescue us, he will love us, he will walk the darkest nights, he will be our wings to fly. He whispers that I, we, are not to walk alone on such trechery, but with him and him and him alone. Our path is unsure, hazing and deep to depths I can not fathom, but somehow I know that it is right and true and above all safe-fear is banquished and there is only trust here.This is now my walk, our walk, me and him- the walk that only lovers take.

I am learning to love-when it's hard and not easy- miles away and sitting in my room. ambiguous and through layers of grossness- I am truly learning what it means to love. I am learning to live for the Kingdom and not for myself. This type of learning, this type of love is transforming me-pulling me apart on the floor, but gently and wonderfully. I welcome it. it's about time.

Tonight I am breathing again, tonight my breathing has become a Fray piano solo -quiet in my room. "So this is where you are, so this is where I am - somewhere between unsure and a hundred."
I am led to walk, to trust, to love - this is easy sustained breathing.

Currently listening to: The Fray - "Hundred"

New life

2006-09-21T20:28:00.000-05:00

Ok - so it's been a long time, but my friend curtis has motivated me back into the blogging world. you see - curtis is now a dad. That's right, that great pic is of him and his little beautiful girl leah!!! So sweet - so amazing - I felt like I had to mention it to the world that this great and wonderful thing has happend. she will surely be wonderful like her parents i'm sure. If you're reading this, which I doubt because why would they spend any of the free time they have reading silly blogs when you have a new born in the house, congrats friends. Blessings upon you.

On a different note, as I was driving home from school tonight I was thinking about Tampa and about how I fell in love with her.
I remember the first time i walked by the water when it was cool and bright, -the cobble stone of my neightborhood, the way the sky would bleed from yellow sun to pale orange to purple blue - it would capture me during long evenings. I truly love her and always will-her place in my heart is full of life and energy and color. She sings a song like no other place I have ever lived or breathed. I think we become nestalgic when we realize what we have known will soon become unknown again, like a dream my friend tells me. i - i am trying to prepare her, in my heart, prepare me...
new life will tell us how the sky sets when we aren't looking...

Free music - really .....

2006-08-29T22:28:00.000-05:00

Check out the new side bar add for free Derek Webb. Literally, this amaxing artist is letting his music "go free" and releasing it for free downloading so others can share it and join in on the conversation..... check it out today. Perhaps it will move your heart.

A Long weekend and a local political plug

2006-08-27T23:07:00.000-05:00

Well it has been a long weekend. As the school year rolls around I find myself busy trying to prepare for another year of youth ministry. We had a fabulous day retreat yesterday and the mood coming away felt quite positive. On the flip side, I was at the church until 9pm trying to set up Sunday School rooms for this morning. All in all a great time.

Today I had the wonderful privledge to have lunch with one of my favorite families - the Peacocks. Today was especcially important as I had yet to sit down and listen Emily's story of why she decided to run for circut court judge. Her reply was simple, "she felt that it was something that she was suppossed to do and that not only could she do the job, but that she could do the job better then some of the other options." These are the types of people we need in these positions; both qaulified and confident - as well as seeking 'justice for all'.

Her own words:
"My personal experiences as a parent, daughter and church worker have given me maturity and greater understanding of people. It is important to have the patience and compassion to really listen to people, to be available to them when they communicate and express themselves. This is possible only when we have grown into the ability to appreciate other people. I have grown tolerant as I have grown older and experienced the many ups and downs that life has offered. A judge must accept that his or her role will be to consider the issues of citizens from all aspects of life. The decisions are very important ? they may encompass loss of life or property, and are to be taken seriously, with sensitivity and compassion. I would humbly attempt to always rise to this challenge."

If you are a registered voter - which I highly encourage you to become if you have not already - please consider coming out on or before September 5th to vote for your local reps. The reality is that the country will not change its direction until it changes its leadership - and this does not happen with one big politcal presidental race, but at the local level which influences the upper. Judges are importat figures in our system - vote for those will be fair and just.

You can check out more infromation on Emily Peacock running for Circut Court Judge group #44 at

http://www.peacockforjudge.com/
-or check out the link at my side bar - Emily for Judge 2006

**Get involved. Care about this world and what goes on in it. Vote. Be engaged in the opportunities you have. It comes down to plain and simple caring - Just Care. Check out Emily and those running for local elections today.

Ok - I'll put the soap box away for now.
On another note - Titus seems to be doing better....so we'll cross our fingers and see how the week goes.

I thought I had become a murderer

2006-08-23T23:16:00.000-05:00

This is my baby Titus. Currently she is sick and it is a very sad thing. She has some type of mysterious disease that keeps her licking and biting her body. This is very disconcerting and we are waiting to hear back from her test results although they will not be available until next weekend - yikes. In the meantime I am giving her drugs to hopefully help whatever ails her. Today however was a different story. I was told to giver her children's benedryl in hopes to calm her and make her less anxious. No one told me that she woud start to foam and froth at the mouth, in which I -the mom now assumed that I have just killed my cat. Thankfully this was not the case. The vet nurse told me that it was her salvatory glands reacting to the gross taste. Even humans don't like the taste of 'cherry burst' in our mouth when we're merky sickies.

Poor Titus. I'm praying to Jesus and mentioning it to St. Francis- I hope we figure it out soon. Tomorrow we will try an expensive shot and see what that does. Let's keep our fingers crossed. I lover her.
I'll keep you posted.

They should note on the Benedryl box:
Warning: Consumption of Children's Benedryl 'cherry burst' in felines may result in froth and foam at the mouth. Be reassured you are not a killer.

Currently listening to:
"Jenny was a friend of mine" by The Killers (how ironic)

Maybe you're the only one who teaches the bible.....

2006-08-22T22:50:00.000-05:00

So today I had a woman, who I assume was a nice woman, tell me that some youth groups don't teach the bible. Now usually I would agree with this statement except that it was in reference to the local youth groups, and pastors, and teachers, and which incidently included myself. I was betting that she had not truly had a conversation with any single teaching bible person at a youth group in the area - yet felt confident to non-chilantly lay that out there. The nerve of this woman, who evidently- is steeped in knowledge of the local ministries in the area - or not.

My frustration with the church comes from those who don't fight for it. I can be so synical about the church and what it does or does not do, but when push comes to shove I still fight for it and what it is supposed to be about and at least, at the minimum, desire to see it work- and not alone but with others - in community- and together for a full and diverse body of Christ seeking to usher in His kingdom. Where I start to get angry is when we don't work for these aims and instead plow ahead with our own narrowed understandings of what "we" want - what "we" think ministry should look like and more important "feel" like - when at the core of it God said - I am that I am. Not I feel like, not I look like - but I am. The church doesn't need to be defended or appologized for and it's our responsibility to strive to make the most of what He is, and He is the great I am.

And for the record, I teach the bible. But they would have only known that if they had asked. They didn't ask, They never do.

Currently listening to: Matt Kearny "Crashing Down"

Home is where the heart as my heart I gave to you.....

2006-08-16T00:16:00.000-05:00

Sea Tac International - I'm getting read to head back -last days always feel like last days. Beautiful and full, but so rushed. I don't really want to go back but I suppose that's how it goes - all great things coming to an end. What an incredible time I have had - so good for my mind, body, and soul. I love these people who love me.

Traveling music - reflective and pensive
-Same artist in my head- just a different song.
Check out Sufjan Steven's "To be alone with you" track from Seven Seas.

Some fun travel pics for you - The my fav is Aaron and I at the top of Rainier. It was such a great day.

I think I could live in Seattle for sure. Maybe I will someday.
Content is what I want to be. And that seems a little closer today that it has in a long time. Maybe it's my new shoes?? jk.

Home here I come. I'm ready for you. We breathe in deep, steady our step, and go for broke - because let's face it...that's all I have. It's either all in or nothing. Hallelujah.

My Summer Adventure

2006-08-13T16:07:00.000-05:00

So who would have ever thought that vacation would ever feel so good. This is my 13th day of vacation and I am feeling great again. I have traveled the expansion of the country, spent time with amazing people, played great music, ate great food, had good company, conversation, and drinks - and slowly but surely I am starting to feel like myself again.

Currently I am in Yelm Washington visiting my buddy Aaron. He ives at the base of Mt. Rainier - one of the most spectacular sights in the country. She is a beautiful beast - 15,000ft high. Yesterday we hiked to a glacier view about 7,000ft. Even from there is was breathtaking. The flowers are still in the meadows here and the sky is crystal blue and bright. The air so clean and fresh - it is wonderful. My time here has been one of great renewal. God's fingerprint is all around us his presence seems to be everywhere here - it is wonderful.

Another blessing has been seeing my great aunt, uncle, and cousin - such great people who live here nearby. I was so greatful for my time with them and only regret that I had not made more time to spend with them. I see my grandmother in my great aunt and am reminded how wonderful the family I belong to is. I am grateful for such reminders.

Tomorrow I will leave Aaron and head to the last stop on my journey - some wonderful old friends who showed me great kindness for so many years. My next post will most likely be when I am back in Tampa - seeking perserverance and strength to start the journey I promised myself these past 2 weeks. I look forward to finding strength and hope in the memory of this wonderful and blessed pilgrimige.

Arkansas and HPI

2006-07-14T20:26:00.000-05:00

It has been almost a week since we arrived in Arkansas to work with Heifer Project International. I am currently in the midst of the break with my student's trips. Our time here has been incredible. HPI is an amazing organization. Their mission is very clear - we will feed the hungry. Everything they are about works towards a world that cares for each other and the earth, seeks harmony in peace through giving and passing on resources, sustainable development, and unity and harmony umong all who exist. How can you not want to rally around a group like that. They are really something else.

The students did supper well. They started to connect with the realities of the world and found themselves striving to be about the change that is needed, on all levels, if we are all to co-exist together. I was sooo proud of them. I am excited to see how the high schoolers fair.

It has been a great week for me. Arkansas is beautiful. I have found such joy and peace in the simplicity of the late evening breezes, beautiful anmals on the ranch, and working hard in the mornings in the gardens in the valley of the Arkansas mountains. It really has been wonderful.

I have found more peace with many of the things I have been wrestling with this summer. It feels like a wave - a big wave, coming. Change is in the air and i'm not sure what that will look like when it's all said and done, but whatever it brings I am ready for it and welcome it. it's that feeling that something needs to change - both within me and outside of me in order for the next song, next chapter to begin. I feel ready for that movement and I know that whatever I decide God will be with me all the way.

Please consider Heifer International - they are seeking to change the world one moment, person, and animal at a time.
check them out at : www.heifer.org

Blessings from Arkansas

This war I am in

2006-07-05T23:52:00.000-05:00

It's late
I can't sleep
I'm crying for you again, feeling hopeless and lost
spining downward to desperations plea
(you've conquered this darkness)
my prayer: save him now - call him home
mend broken glass scattered all around
mend me

can't back out
can't turn around too intimate to retreat
and leave you on this biiter field dying alone and scared
your slipping crashing and I can't stop this colide
your shadow left encasing you in
I miss you
I love you
come back

As deep calls to deep
there is no darkenss that light can not penetrate
it will ransom you back and I will stand by it's side

Titus

2006-06-10T20:53:00.000-05:00

Pretty new cat who lives with me is named Titus and I love her. She is the most beautiful cat on the block - hands down.

Sorry about yesterday's blog - yikes. The love of God compells us to seek resolution to the disonance the enemy creates. I will not allow the disonance to ruin this song. I will love, even through pain and frustration, but I will constantly seek life over death always!

"It's okay, you know i'll live to fight another day"

Warning

2006-06-09T21:51:00.000-05:00

This is not a positive post - warning.
I can't even write it....nevermind
angry chick lyrics - here we go...

"i'm not ready to make nice.
i'm not ready to back down.
i'm still mad as hell and
i don't have time to go round
and round and round"
dixie chicks

"I'm a mess already so why *u*k with the broken glass when you have no intention of helping it become
what it once was? Do us both a favor and mess with the girl you met at the party last night - I've spent the
last 2 years getting the drama out of my life and i'm not signing up for any more."
Girl Interupted

"It's your fault for running with diamonds in your hands, I offer no sympathy for that. Better off I sparkle on my own. Someday love will find me in the rough, Someday love will finally be enough."
Anna

"I Have to Believe"

2006-06-04T20:58:00.000-05:00

This song by Rita Springer is my current anthem. Find it on itunes-here are the lyrics....

I have to believe that He sees my darkness;
I have to believe He knows my pain.
I have to lift up my hands to worship, worship His name!

I have to declare that He is my refuge;
I have to deny that I am alone.
I have to lift up my eyes to the mountains -- that's where my help comes from!

He said that He's forever faithful,
He said that He's forever true.
He said that He can move mountains!
If He can move mountains, He can move my mountain -- He can move your mountain, too!!

If you are feeling a little hopeless, these are real promises to grasp! I love the words to this song. I know that whateverwe go through -He is faithful to love, care, and guide through any storm. God is the only one to get us through the doubts that are not but there by God - but by the one who desires to decieve. God stands on His words and will be faithful to His promises. He will be faithful and true- He will move whatever mountains need to be moved in order to get us where He wants us - joyfully seated in HIs loving embrace. Jesus Saves

Brooklyn Summer Experience Trip - summer trip #1 for mission with my students went incredibly. If you want to check out what we did check out Metro Ministries - Brooklyn Bootcamp at
http://www.metroministries.org/mm_cnt1.asp?id=26

This is an incredible ministry that outreaches to the children of the NYC Boroughs - some of the toughest and dangerous streets in America. We were blessed by our time with this incredible ministry. Please be apart of it if the Lord allows the opportunity. Or just pray for Him to make the way for you to be apart of it :)

God is good all the time

I'm getting a cat

2006-05-24T22:53:00.000-05:00

The verdict is in
B
B+
A-
yippi!!!

Now onto some relaxing time at the beach......
and when I get back from NYC - i'm getting a cat!!!
I welcome suggestions for names - mopy kevin you would be proud-

Film mentioned today I will rent next:
The Count of Monte Cristo

"What determines what type of man you are is your reaction to storms. It isn't the sunlight that shapes us, but the storm..."
I can get behind a movie that has a line like that.

I'm done with my first year......

2006-05-18T21:08:00.000-05:00

It's over - yikes 4 more years to go - but yippi I'm done with my first year of seminary.
Yesssssss!
There is really a great feeling knowing that you can do anything you want to with your free time. No -you are no longer bound to students and paper writing, reading and ministry - you have recess again, free time, free swim, freedom.
Thank you Jesus

Now as far as grades are concerned, I already know the sadness - I have gotton a 'B'in NT. Remember 'd' as in 'dumb' -yep, same class. I will not cry however, and as of tonight I will committ to not carring about this semester's grades (at least too much). No. I will not dismay regardless of the outcome- there are more important things in life then grad school and this semester I chose to focus on them.

Duke - cover your eyes (you know the drill)

Thoughts on Christians in America - and Happy Birthday Jeremy!!

2006-05-16T22:17:00.000-05:00

This is one of my bestest friends in the world and tonight at midnight he turns 26! yikes - He is an incredibe fella.

Check out his music at www.myspace/jeremyjunkin.

On another Note:
THIS IS WOOD

I have thoughts on Christians in America - they are everywhere.

You can't escape them or the culture wake they leave behind - I know, I am one of them. What about the rest of the world? Are those who are here living up to the standard is calling them?

Here's the 1000000.00 $ question, what does that look like? Is it the Kingdom or do we make excuses and justifications for things that are comfortable but wrong, safe but lazy, "nice looking" but shallow? Someone tell me - because American Christianity is looking like it's becoming plastic. I want wood - Jesus chose wood. Wood is real. Give me wood America and then we might have conversations that go beyond altar calls and Sunday best....

But go and learn what this means, 'I desire compassion, and not sacrifice,' for I did not come to call the righteous, but sinners.- The words of Jesus -Matthew 9:13

2006-05-15T00:14:00.000-05:00

It's late and I can't sleep tonight. There is so much going on in and around me. I have that squirly feeling when you are in the midst of finals - almost there but still yet to be done. The summer change up, friends moving away, valleys to walk through, and mountains to summit.

Why do we feel pain when it is not our own? What would scientists say about that? Is it empathy? Compassion? Ethic morality in a dualistic society? The spirit of God? I hate this type of pain- even more then usual I can do nothing about it except pray and kneel before the Father as an intercessor. Better then what my hands can do. I choose you-

Please come back and make everything right again.

FINE

2006-04-27T23:22:00.000-05:00

There is really nothing poetic in me tonight. I tired, stressed out, a bit nurotic, and a tad bit hungry. As much as I love school, why does it beat me up? It should love me back-right? I got my first "d" ever yesterday. I wish it were really a "b" - but no, definatley a "d" as in "dumb". shoot. maybe i'm not cut out to be a proffessor. Or maybe all the good proffessors got a "d" in April when they were in grad school. Duke - if you're reading this just cover your eyes. it can be our little secret....

goodnight

Early

2006-04-18T04:19:00.000-05:00

It is early, but I am ready
Issac taken by hand
trusting the Father - he knows no other
I will follow you
to the altar where you come and bid my offering
You will not forsake me
You will hear my cry

You will take these rags and make them beautiful
the kinfe's edge will be hidden from my face
the ram will cry out and the offering will be made

what will be my ram
I trust you alone my God

Behute mich Gott, ich vertraue dir, du zeigst mir den Weg zum Leben. Bei dir ist Freude, Fruede Fule
Keep me, O God, for I trust in you. You show me the path of life. With you there is fullness of joy.
Taize 150

Paul -amazing man, bad blogger

2006-04-16T22:57:00.000-05:00

Paul has become one of my favorite people. In so many ways our lives are on the same rhythm, and to me that is fresh air. There is only one thing - he is not a consistent blogger. October was his last entry - what's that all about? And he calls himself a blogger... As he told me today, "I'm not going to blog until you do" - so check him out at

http://www.xanga.com/godthirsty

-It's good stuff...when he does write, and keep him accountable to the blogging community he has committed himself to....
;)

Taize - My heart is with you

2006-04-16T22:42:00.000-05:00

Take a look at the pics below....-check it out and go - www.taize.fr

To give it all away

2006-04-16T22:27:00.000-05:00

Easter is here- He has risen indeed.....

What does it mean to give up all that you love for the one who loves you more then you can ever know? This is the question that I have wrestled with this past week as we walked through lent into mourning into Easter dancing. What does it mean to give up that which I love so dearly - even if it honors you Lord, what does it mean? If I count it all as loss, and all of you as gain, why should it matter... Why should it especially matter tonight?

Take away what I love deeply Lord if there is no need for it in my life
otherwise bind me to it, so that in unity we may glorify you and work to usher in your kingdom on Earth....
Nothing is worth more then you - nothing
I will gladly walk away if it is your will
with empty hands

Taize- what a wonderful place

2006-03-02T17:49:00.000-05:00

prayer

2006-01-17T23:51:00.000-05:00

there are somethings that can not happen unless we pray - maxi Dunham

Lord be with Caroline and our friends in Israel
the people who persecute your children
a mother who seeks to be repentant
a friend who still feels the newness of his new life
the friend who has a long journey ahead of him
for provision
health
joy
and peace

we love you
Lord hear our prayer

amen

Taking down the sky

2006-01-11T00:01:00.000-05:00

Incredible day. Nothing incredible but small great things that reassured me of "this is right for now". REASSURANCE - great word. I booked my hotel in Paris tonight - yeah!! 2 months to go...

Random thought - I was speaking with someone at the church today who talked about a man who was not a Christian. She spoke of him in reference to not serving God, but serving the devil. I thought this was interesting because I wondered if there had to be an either or - or if people either did or did not serve God period (full-stop).

I thought about how I grew up and God always knew my name, knew me, whispered in my ear. I don't think that for the 16 years of my life that I didn't know Him that I served someone other then Him and if that is true then it was myself that I served. But I think He always knew me and always knew I would know Him. It was like a shadow that followed me around - a feeling I could never shake - I was afraid until I knew what it was. He was romancing me. (All that time)

Sneaky God.

thank you.

Wally said "Taking down the sky"
Imagine we are all capable of that at some point or another -especially with Jesus

Currently listening to :The Postal Service - oh ben, if only you lived in Tampa and wanted to sing me love songs

Thoughts on new year's eve day

2005-12-31T15:16:00.000-05:00

Tonight is the last night of the year - here's to another adventure. (Will it really be a new year?)

Switchfoot has truly impressed me with their last albulm - here is my current theme song....get the albulm if you can
"nothing is sound"

Golden

She's alone tonight,
With a bitter cup and,
She's undone tonight,
She's all used up,

She's been staring down the demons,
Who've been screaming she's just another so and so,
Another so and so

You are golden,
You are golden, Child

You are golden,
(Don't let go,)
(Don't let go tonight)

There's a fear that burns,
Like trash inside
And you're ashamed of the curse,
That burns your eyes

You've been hiding in your bedroom,
Hoping this isn't how the story has to go
It's not the way it goes, It's your book now,
You're,

Golden,
You are golden, Child

You are golden,
(Don't let go,)
(Don't let go tonight)

You're a lonely soul,
Inlet of broken hearts
You're far from home,
It's a perfect place to start

(Yeah!)
(Burn,)
(Burn, Burn!)

So this final verse,
Is a contradiction
And the more we learn,
The less we know

We've been talkin' about a feeling,
We both know inside but couldn't find the words
I couldn't write this verse,
I've seldom been so sure,
About anything before

Golden,
You are Golden, Child

You are Golden,
(Don't let go,)
(Don't let go tonight)

This world is a dead man down (Golden, you are,)
Every breath is a singing crown away, (Golden, Child, you are,)
Like some debilitated king, (Golden, don't let go,)
Don't let go tonight

Earth Spins and your mind goes round' (Golden, you are,)
Green comes on the frozen ground, (Golden, Child, you are,)
And everything will be made new again, (Golden,)
Like freedom and spring, (Golden, Golden,)
Hey, like freedom and spring, (Golden, you are, hey,)
Like freedom and spring (Golden, Child, you are,)

Bet-el ya hyim with familiar hand

2005-12-25T01:41:00.000-05:00

Glory to the new born king
peace on earth with continued mercy
God and sinners reconciled
nations clothed in joyful newness afresh
excitment
anticipation
joined side by side
with the hosts of angels
we stand
and say
Emmanuel
God with us-God with us
Emmanuel God with us
Glory to God in the highest
Listen - the angels are singing

Merry Christmas

Waiting

2005-12-23T22:50:00.000-05:00

Tomorrow is Christmas Eve - it seemed like we would never get here. Christmas has become to mean so much more to me tomorrow night verses Christmas Day. There is so much majesty in the evening, that perhaps some mystical and magical event happens between the time I close my eyes and when I wake up. That somehow during the unwrapping stage in the early morning Christ has been born and we rejoice in his birth....but it wasn't like that at all. It came so quietly and in the human raw that the only majesty was Emmanuel, Mary crying through child birth and my savior white with yuck. I don't want to think of Him that way - so feeble and vulnerable, but that was the cross as well. Yet I can not help but think that the angels lined up in rows, on bended knees - heads bowed low covered by wings ( I know...not all angels have wings), and perhaps Gabriel, or Micheal - or better yet Joe no named angel peaked a glance as God kissed His son goodbye to send him to earth - what a day knowing what would happen 32 years later. But this is my human interpretation, the reality of Christmas is so far beyond my menial understanding. Maybe that's why culture has tried to dull it down - because it's a concept too big to be boxed or purchased by credit. At any case - Christmas, what I have been preparing through all this long long long Advent - I think I am ready for you - Jesus I know I am ready for you. May our walk to Easter be slow and intimate. I love you.

missing

2005-12-21T00:33:00.000-05:00

that's the word for the night - if I said much more it would give it away.

surfing the blogger world - my friend is so romantic - i am so excited for him to ask his lady to marry him. I am so excited for them. Man it's going to be a long year. Crap.

Thoughts at the end

2005-12-18T22:33:00.000-05:00

It seemed that this day was to be the life preserver for many people. Perhaps this was true because it marked the end of finals, or the Christmas party that everyone was either waiting for or dreading finally came and passed. Either way it's over. I met some great people, the types of people that you wished were permanent in your life, but are not - they are drifters called to long journeys and nomadicism. Regardless, their presence was a blessing and what they had to offer - great music, art, conversation, connections within our small world.... it was refreshing. Thank you new friends.

I am sure that the community house concept is apart of the next year ahead. It is exciting but dangerous and nerve rattling at the same time. Maybe I am facing the things that I only spoke to others - leaving the secure and comfortable for the unknown and strictly faith living. But I know it is the road to walk along next. I know that I will not be alone. Here's to the journey always.

My friend gave me a photograph he had taken for Christmas - each day I find myself deeper and deeper into that sun rise, feeling hope and newness. It makes me feel calm and restless as the same time. Tonight it makes me want to sleep - or perhaps that was just this crazy week which I can now end. until the sunrise....

I know what i saw

2005-12-08T01:11:00.000-05:00

Today I saw Jesus on TV - I did. He rescued a puppy who had been abused (bastards). His name was Gary in that moment, but it was my saviour, a carpenter, embracing trajedy and mercy- giving hope and encouragment to the vet nurses who love all animals even the roaches (gross). Maybe the puppy was Jesus - that would make the bastards feel bad - i think. But I am sure of my witness, it seemed like him - either Jesus or St. Francis. Next time I hope I don't miss you-please stay a while.....

2005-12-07T01:36:00.000-05:00

Ok - new and exciting news. I have a myspace site now and it has my music on it - yeah!! Those tricky MP3 settings....anyway - if you are curious to hear my old stuff check out

www.myspace.com/melissamarley

I hope to write some more stuff soon and combine that with newer stuff to create even better stuff ... does that make sense?

Yeah - I love doing music - O great one call me to it please.....

is that my cell phone? (douh!)
All for the kingdom

Sleigh Bells Ring

2005-12-06T23:56:00.001-05:00

Yeah Christmas is around the corner and I am so excited. I can't wait to be finished with my OT paper - I feel like it will take me forever to finish but I know that next Sunday I will look back and think - oh no way ...... I did it!!

Today I had this moment where in my heart I think I wanted to think that Saddam Hussain was an ok guy. The I remembered that great line:

The greatest trick the devil ever played was convincing everyone he didn't exist

Then I was back in reality feelin horrible about the thing all over again. What was that inside me that made me pause? Grace of God manifested - I doubt it, I can hardly grasp it myself....probably either stupidity or nievity. I must pray for it all.

Decided that I am in RTO (Relationship Time Out) - I think this is needed and good, I welcome time to think, pray, and reconsider something that will be the biggest thing every - eventually...in the mean time it's time to fast again - God bring me closer to you as I walk into the darkenss (Merton).

"If heaven and hell decide that they both are satisfied, and both turn on the 'no's in their vacancy lights. If there's no one beside you when your soul embarks - I'll follow you into the dark." - Death Cab For Cutie, I will follow you into the dark - PLANS

Better Late Then Never

2005-11-12T23:26:00.000-05:00

Shoot - it has been quite along time....but in reality I am not sure who reads this anyway- but here's to the world wide web. I've been busy - seminary and ministry - both of which are going well as I do not do either on my own but with the help of the Spirit. This week was crazy. I've had so many big conversations in my head, many by which have been propelled by conversations with friends and professors.

If you haven't seen it yet - please see the following two movies. Romero and The Motorcycle Diaries. Both speak to an individual journeying through ethical decsisions that impact the lives of others. So many times we don't stand up when we ought to.....christian or non. I am guilty of the same crime, but shoot sometimes isn't the injustice and the elitism of life too much for you? PLEASE NOTE: Not that I am a believer in the communism that Marx boasted and believed in, but didn't some of things he said make sense?

"The poor have nothing to lose but their chains. They have the world to win."-KM 1848 (His Manifesto)

In Howard Snyder's book Kingdom, Church, and World, in which we are reading for a class at Asbury, he descrbes the Kingdom of God as a place where there will be justice for the poor. In the meantime, he challenges the church, to strive for this Kingdom principle in every day living until God ushers in this new Kingdom - working toward a new Kingdom on earth that will take care of the poor, impoverished, the fatherless, and the orphaned. I believe this is work for Kingdom people - God's children, and my hope is that the church remembers.

On another note we have had some very interesting conversation online about the Kingdom verses the Country. In my opinion, once again we are hearing that rehtoric of nationalism and religion along with patriotism. I do not understand why the three must walk hand in hand as I do not think it is truly Biblical, but to honor my brothers and sisters who feel strongly about such I work within their "box" - a quote from a fellow blogger out in the big web universe posted the following:

Call me a Christian, a Buddhist, a mystic, a heretic, an apostate, an unbeliever. Your labels are your business. All I want is to know God’s heart, and reflect it. What really is there, but God’s divine love, underneath and within all things, causing them to be? And what purpose is there except to realize it? Show me a national boundary that God respects, which neither the wind nor the Spirit cross. Then I’ll take countries seriously. Till then, enjoy the dream. Or wake up.

I think that just about sums it up for me at times. But man it is a journey and I pray that we can continue on with perseverance.

sorry for the rantings tonight - what a strange mood I have found myself in
Blessings
mmm

SYATP 2005

2005-09-21T09:32:00.000-05:00

The following is what I posted on my youth blog this morning....:

SYATP 2005

This morning over 60 students from Plant gathered around their flag pole to pray for their school their community, and their world. I had the great priviledge of being present with these great students, doughnuts (spelling?) in hand.

To be honest I was so blessed to witness about 15-20 students join the group that hadn't in the previous years. To say that race isn't an issue in the south, in Tampa, in our community, in our church would be wrong. However, at the foot of God it doesn't matter. What is our call then? How do we become a united body of Christ where standing in prayer doesn't need to be an exclusive event - where everyone can feel welcome. What about the church - the most segregated place on a Sunday AM- how do we figure it out??

One thing I do know is that many of the students felt moved by the recent events that have happened in Mississippi, Alabama, and Lousiana - to be a source of standing at the pole today.How is it in pain we can be united? How is it in pain we learn wisdom, that's what your word says.... I suppose the cross is a good example of that.

It was a good morning.
Lord draw them closer to each other and closer to you...

Untill the Kingdom comes

Poor Aziz

2005-09-20T22:45:00.000-05:00

As I was roaming the blogger world I came upon a sad soul who's backpack got stolen - bummer.... but anyway here is the best quote I've heard in weeks....

" Obviouisly, that's not a real email. I'm just really pissed about losing my backpack. DAMNIT! Is this because I did that joke about God hating me? Touche, omniscent one. Touche."

Blessings Aziz, I hope you get your stuff back!

My Head Hurts

2005-09-20T22:29:00.000-05:00

So I have had a bit of a headache for the past 4 weeks. Today I took my turn in the twisting orb- I pray that someone will tell me why there is this cloud over my brain...it is quite disturbing. Perhaps Chris Martin had a headache last week when he postponed his Tampa show. We were sad, but perhaps it was a good time for both of us to rest our heads.

Hope you can sleep well tonight

back from home

2005-08-11T10:07:00.000-05:00

I was so lucky to be able to spend the past week up in New England on the North Shore of Mass., where I spent 5 pre-Tampa years. They were amazing years there and it was a wonderful reunion. I am taken away by the simplicty of life there and the freshness of everything. My friends homes, although I had never ventured their, seemed so familiar and inviting - wooden, wrickety, full of warmth and color and pleasing smell..fresh colored flowers and greens and grass that does't feel like astroturf.....it was wonderful - thanks Sam & Rye + Andrew.

I like going back to place where I began .....where I really began to think and formulate and where this current person took her first steps of independence in life, money, thought, education, and relationships. It wasn't always pretty - but a good place to be during some of the most restless places of my life. I tell my students to go where you think you will find God - and I promise them that He will show himself to them.....I had one of those moments my self at the Cliffs - I knew he would be there and was....

On the plane ride I started reading a seminary book on my sylabus - "A New Kind of Christian" by Brian McLearn. It is a good read - if you are unsure of the concept of the Post-modern emerssion I highly recommend it - however know that Mclearn's books are harder to read then Nancy Drew books and getting through them can take you a bit....but a very interesting look at the church and culture - culture rapidly changing and tossing us around like lost sheep - what is the churches response? What is our response as individuals - pagans or Christian? Where do we go from here....check it out. "Generous Orthodoxy " by Mclearn is a great book as well.

I am spending many hours at the local bookstore preparing for the Fall here at the end of my vacation. While I was their last night I indulged and bought - also had to order - "Son of a Preacher" - the life telling of Jay Bakker - Jim & Tammy Fae's son. When I first saw Jay and heard what he had to say I was blown away. This man is moving mountains in an area of the church that very few are venturing from. He's shaking the box of our current thoughts on religion, community, relationships, tolerance, and faith and I think it's radically great and wonderful. I am chomping at the bit to read the book.....order it if you can.

Viva la Reveloution is Jay's group - check them out at http://www.vivalarevolution.org/
Thanks for all your trailblazing Jay....

Let's see what the day has for me....
Blessings for the journey

what did micah say?

2005-08-04T09:00:00.000-05:00

To create a place where your thoughts will reside.......tricky tricky thing coming up with an identity or a name (especially one that has not already been taken...). So I opted for the perverbial "what is that eye catching thing on the note board in front of you over the computer" random title. For me it is a momento my roommate has from The Open Door Community, a place where homeless and non live together in community and journey through life together. The verse represented for the community is as follows...

Yahweh will settle disputes among the nations, among the great powers near and far. They will hammer their swords into plows and their spears into prunning - nations will never again go to war and they will never prepare for battle again. Everyone will live in peace among their own vine yards and fig trees and no one will make them afraid. Yahweh has promised........
Micah 4:3-4
I thought it worthy of atribution - what Micah said...
here's to the journey!