tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10828432462847878122023-07-17T21:52:31.247-07:00Views from the destratispheredestratispherehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01923628921992206849noreply@blogger.comBlogger34125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1082843246284787812.post-83377363652156786032009-12-23T07:51:00.000-08:002009-12-23T08:47:13.265-08:00DeltaDelta means change. I am a walking oxymoron when it comes to change. I really like having a routine, but mostly just at home. I love trying to think outside the box when it comes to work and church because that's where I get to be a creative (noun form, how do you like that?). If I'm working on something and there isn't a law or regulation restricting me, I'm going to get my hands dirty with it. Saying "that's the way we've always done it" tells me that you aren't committed to your mission or goal because nothing should be off limits if you're passionate about what you do. Think. Try. Fail. Rethink. Try. Discover. <br /><br />In November I changed jobs and most of my reasoning for that is related to this idea. I felt totally smothered in a place that I was pretty valuable. I struggled everyday because I knew I had a vital role to play but I could be removed at any time. The pure stress was beyond anything I had ever experienced before. It was an uphill battle and the mountain grew taller as I climbed. <br /><br />A couple of weeks ago I turned 30. This was the first time in a long time that the number of years actually made me think for a minute. I'm 30? What does my life look like compared to other 30 year olds? <br /><br />A friend of mine turned 30 once and He went to a wedding in Cana. The party was crazy awesome and they kicked the keg much earlier than anticipated. His mom was there and she told the caterers to do whatever He said. He tried to get out of it because He thought it wasn't the right time to start His "business" but He did it anyway. <br /><br />A week later He went nose to nose with the bigwigs at his office. They were doing some shady, corrupt stuff so He started smashing furniture and yelling at them for screwing up the whole business model. They thought He was crazy.<br /><br />I doubt anyone would confuse me with Him but He brought DELTA in a way that I want to bring it. Do people think I'm crazy? Probably not enough, but I'm working on it. I'm 30, He was 30. It's about time. <br /><br />Choose Wiselydestratispherehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12722851531456534921noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1082843246284787812.post-20272753522691987682009-12-22T08:50:00.000-08:002009-12-22T09:27:10.572-08:00Coming up for AirThat's how I feel this morning. Like I was sitting on the bottom of a lake and not sure how to get back to the surface. It was dark and scary with monsters all around me. This past weekend, I spent most of it at my computer working on two separate final papers for school. Each supposed to be at least 6 pages, which is not really terrible. Despite my ability to complete the work, it seems that the way I work through these things doesn't seem to make any sense.<br /><br />Quick sidebar, I can blame some of the procrastination on my brother for visiting me the weekend before and totally burning half of my Saturday that was blocked out for homework. But ultimately, I know that I would not have done much anyway because that would have made too much sense. Plus the fact that we had some good times playing Tecmo Bowl on the NES emulator and catching Switchfoot @ the TLA. (<a href="http://www.destratis.com/2009/12/coincidence-on-my-way-to-new-jersey.html">here is his blog on his trip</a>)<br /><br />So this weekend, in the middle of the Christmas prep season, in the middle of a New England-esque snow storm, in the middle of battling my attention span that usually wants to NOT be writing papers, I sat. And I sat. I got up to stretch and try out some of Kim's baking adventures (all good, btw). And I sat. I throw down a paragraph, and then I play Mafia Wars. I copy and paste a quote, and then I check the football scores. I set mini deadlines all through the weekend and I watch them go by at warp speed.<br /><br />This is my method. It doesn't make a whole lot of sense, but at 11:58 pm on Monday night, I was emailing my last report to the professor. It's not how I planned it, but I got it done. I am not very good at tricking myself into working ahead when it comes to homework. I'm sure that I am not the only who struggles with this, but it still drives me crazy. Hopefully it's the only thing that I procrastinate on so consistently because I'd like to think the rest of my life is staying on schedule. And now I will rejoin my life, already in progress. It's going to be a great couple of weeks.<br /><br />I'm still only scratching the surface of all the bloggable things going on right now, so stay tuned.<br /><br />Choose Wiselydestratispherehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12722851531456534921noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1082843246284787812.post-74780171163061695212009-12-14T07:46:00.001-08:002009-12-14T07:46:14.655-08:00Bloggrdestratispherehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01923628921992206849noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1082843246284787812.post-71104077551337000732009-12-07T06:24:00.000-08:002009-12-07T06:55:40.795-08:00Hearty UpdatesOver 7 months since the last post if you're keeping track at home. I suppose I'm getting used to doing the Facebook & Twitter updates which are so much easier and quicker to keep up with. Plus, <a href="http://kims-wcg.blogspot.com/">Kim</a> has blogged a few times about our adventures so I sort of let that count for me too. I think I can do better, so I will try. My new job isn't killing me like the last one (more about this some other time) so that should ease the stress and allow a little more time to write posts. This next year should be worth blogging about. <br /><br />For now, I just wanted to write up an update on the heart issues. It wasn't long after my last post that I experienced palpitations yet again, so it would appear that the second location of atrial tachycardia that they discovered during the EP study is still affecting me. I don't remember exactly when, but around June I went back on medication, Toprol, for a couple months. When soccer season arrived and I starting running around more, I realized that the medicine made me uncomfortable because it limited my heart rate (go figure, that's what it's supposed to do). It's hard to explain in words but it was just difficult to rest and recover once I got everything heated up. <br /><br />I went back to the doctor and he switched me to Atenolol and cut it to a small dose of 12 mg. This was perfect for my exercise needs but it was not strong enough to block the palpitations. Actually, I was ok with that. I'd rather have the palpitations than feel so restricted by the medication, I could just feel the un-naturalness of it all. But, the doctor didn't like it, so we switched again to a low dose of Verapamil.<br /><br />This one was fine for exercise but still did not block the palpitations. However, there are higher doses that I may try next month. Currently, I'm taking 120 mg of Verapamil and 25 mg of Atenolol, per his orders, but I will run out of Verapamil in about a week (I'm in insurance limbo during December). I'm sure the Atenolol will hold me over just fine until I visit the doc again and we figure out what to do next. I really did not want to be on a daily drug for the rest of my life, but it doesn't seem like I have another option right now. December will be light on exercise anyway, so I won't have to fight with my limited heart rate too much. More on this topic in the New Year.<br /><br />Choose Wiselydestratispherehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01923628921992206849noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1082843246284787812.post-52628757764683793752009-04-23T10:07:00.000-07:002009-04-23T11:28:29.769-07:00Shock Through the Heart...Did I put Bon Jovi in your head? Consider that my gift to you. I love double meaning post titles. I can't resist them. This one was a no brainer.<br /><br />On Tuesday I went back to Cooper for another EP Study. Check my recent posts for the back story. My appointment was for 6:30am which meant that they were definitely going to work on me until they were satisfied with the results. There was one detail that I was not prepared for though. I would not be sleeping very much this time around.<br /><br />I got my IV and other prep stuff done in a separate room, then we took the walk down the green mile towards the lab room, which looked exactly the same as the first time and still very cold. I laid down on the bench at about 8am and endured more prep gymnastics from the nurses. Once again, they were a great crew and made sure that I was doing alright. I did get some relax juice but it only let me drift in and out of sleep. They started working around 8:45.<br /><br />I could tell immediately that things were different this time because I could hear the conversations and sometimes I felt the catheters shifting to the will of the doctors. As best as I can remember, they were able to zap the main problem a few hours into it, maybe noonish. I felt my heart racing as they pumped in <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Isoprenaline">Isoproterenol</a> through the IV. Using this drug was one of the reasons they could not let me sleep this time around. I also think that I felt some heat when they actually did the ablation, which took 3 zaps to get the whole thing. <br /><br />For the rest of the time, the team worked to get after my 2nd case of tachycardia. They found this one very close to my main cluster of electric circuitry. This location creates much higher probability for complications, so they had a difficult task ahead. The lead doctor had discussed this situation with me beforehand and we all agreed that it would not make sense to risk those complications (I'd need a pacemaker) if the 2nd case was not easily reachable. I believe that she tried to find a way to safely navigate to the 2nd location but ultimately realized that it wasn't going to work without possibly damaging the main cluster.<br /><br />They backed everything off and got me off the table around 2:30. I have to say, 6 hours on my back got to be very uncomfortable. I felt soreness in all my limbs and my lower back after just a few hours. Plus I had to relieve myself so bad that I was sweating and eventually had to ask for a bottle to relieve myself. I was trying to hold off but I realized that they weren't finished with me yet so I quit trying to be a hero. Probably TMI there, but that's the way it went down. The next couple hours are kind of fuzzy to me now. I don't remember being transferred to the bed or back to the room. Maybe they juiced me up before they disconnected me. I don't know for sure but eventually I remember texting people and saying that I was all done.<br /><br />Kim came by after work and spent the evening with me. I was able to get out of bed at 7pm, which allowed me to start the recovery process much sooner than last time. Also, I felt much more confident since I had been through it before. They moved me to my overnight room at 8:30 which interrupted American Idol. That was not cool but I got over it. I spent the night getting interrupted by nurse visits for myself and my roommate but morning came soon enough. No tests were needed. Doctors came to recap the events one more time and I was dressed and out the door by 9:45am. They told me I could not drive for 48 hours, lift no more than 10 pounds until Monday and not go back to work until Monday. The funny thing is, I physically feel less damaged than last time and I don't think I'll be honoring all of those restrictions. <br /><br />So far, I don't think I've had any palpitations but it will be in the back of my mind for a while. If I do have one, it means that the 2nd case does impact my rhythm and I might have to do something about it. Either some sort of procedure or medication. I'm hoping and praying that the 1 that was zapped is the one that was the problem and #2 is just there, not causing any trouble. Thanks to my family and friends for your support, concern and prayers. Now go ahead and enjoy the Bon Jovi! It's alright.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GccfzxHIXaY">It's worth the click, trust me.</a><br /><br />Choose Wiselydestratispherehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01923628921992206849noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1082843246284787812.post-55370092025816904952009-03-18T19:17:00.000-07:002009-03-18T20:16:58.994-07:00Round 1-part 2I'm led into the EP study lab by a nurse. This place looks like something out of a sci-fi movie or a tv drama series. One table in the middle with gadgets all over the place. A 6-screen monitor on wheels and nurses turning on some "jamming" music to keep their energy levels up while they work on me. It felt like it was about 55 degrees in there and I was dealing with the paper-thin gown and footie socks. They were terribly inadequate for insulating me from the elements.<br /><br />I hopped onto the table, which was as wide as a weight bench, and to lay all the way down, I had to lean back while curling around some thing that was suspended over the table. They brought me a couple of warming towels to cover me which was nice but the heat wore off quickly and I had to ask for another set after a couple minutes of prep time. I couldn't shake the cold and I was a little bit nervous too. <br /><br />They were slapping me with those electrode pads from every angle. They numbed my entire hip area with an iodine, roll-on deodorant looking tube. They strapped my wrists down with velcro cuffs so I wouldn't interfere with their work. The procedure involves putting tiny catheter tubes into the veins in the groin. The veins let them get up to the heart where they map the electrical circuits and try to pinpoint irregularities. To my right was the computer room. A few folks were behind glass where they had computers and other equipment to read my heart's electric map. There were a lot of people involved in this procedure and it's nice to know that they are really good at their jobs. I have no complaints about Cooper Hospital. <br /><br />The next thing I know, I'm waking up to my two happy prep nurses, counting to three so they can yank me off the table, onto a bed. I guess I'm done. I was rolled away to my room where Kim was waiting. This was around 7:30pm. I don't remember a lot about the next few hours, but my doctors came in and give me their results. They did find <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atrial_tachycardia">Atrial Tachycardia</a> in my heart, but since they started working on me so late in the day, they couldn't do the Ablation procedure. The verdict is... they need to do the EP study again in a month and do the ablation to wipe out the problem, hence my title "Round 1". I need a few weeks to heal up before they can go poking holes in my legs again.<br /><br />All in all, there was very minimal pain involved. The worse part was on Tuesday morning when I had to rip off all those electrode pads. I got an Echo test and my discharge papers by 11am on Tuesday morning. 25 hours or so and I walked out, slightly hunched over and shuffling along. Nothing really got fixed but at least I know what the deal is with my ticker. Next time, it should get resolved and I can move on. <br /><br />Choose Wiselydestratispherehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01923628921992206849noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1082843246284787812.post-13240052542607859812009-03-18T07:44:00.000-07:002009-03-18T08:13:51.127-07:00Round 1-part 1Monday was a long, long, long day. Kim and I arrived at Cooper just before 10am. First up was the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tilt_table_test">tilt table test</a>. They strapped me to a bed and hooked me up to a heart monitor and a blood pressure thingy. They tilt the bed up to about 80 degrees but it still feels like you're standing up straight. 45 minutes just standing there chatting with the nurse while he records my blood pressure every minute. Next, they put me flat and start pushing adrenaline through the IV. My normal rest rate was in the 60's so they needed it to be above 90 before they could stand me up again, this time for 15 minutes of bp readings. The adrenaline definitely felt funny since I wasn't running around or exercising to build up the rate on my own. But it wasn't too bad, only got up to about 125 bpm, mostly between 100-115. 15 minutes was enough of that though. Thus ended the tilt table test, they laid me back down to relax for a few minutes before I dismounted and headed carefully for a chair (little bit dizzy). This puts us around 12:30<br /><br />They didn't really learn much from the tilt table, lots of people can pass out from it but I've never had symptoms that lead to passing out or even feeling dizzy. I just have a palpitation and some heart racing issues that aren't normal but aren't too severe either. Anyway, we started chatting with the Doctors about what to do next. Eventually we decided to go ahead with the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/EP_Study">EP Study</a> and the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ablation">Ablation</a> procedure if they found something worthwhile. That's what we planned on doing and it didn't seem right to get to that point and just walk away without learning anything new. Now we're up to 2:30pm.<br /><br />waiting around... waiting around...<br /><br />4:45 the Fellow for the EP study lab comes in to chat a bit and get more info. <br />5:00 the nurses arrive and take me away to the lab. <br /><br />more later...destratispherehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01923628921992206849noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1082843246284787812.post-6789711332848772062009-03-15T18:00:00.000-07:002009-03-15T18:20:07.347-07:00Electrical problemsI wanted to put a quick note out there because I haven't blogged about some health issues I've been going through for the last few months. When I was sick with flu-type stuff around Christmas and visiting my doctor, I made a casual reference about feeling some heart palpitations, or "blips" or whatever you want to call them. Things sort of snowballed from there... cardiologist visits, stress tests, heart monitors. This all leads up to tomorrow.<br /><br />In the morning I'll be going to Cooper Hospital to get some tests and/or procedures done to try and fix my problems. As far as I understand, and in completely non-technical terms, I have some miscommunication between the different electrical nodes in my heart. Sometimes I have a "blip", where my heart speeds up for a few seconds, and sometimes my heart races and I don't know it's happening. That's about the best I can break it down for you. I'll be getting a tilt table test and probably the EP Study. I'm sure I'll understand it a little better once I talk to the doctors who actually do these things. I'll try to report on more of the details when I can make sense out of them. <br /><br />I'd be lying if I said I'm totally relaxed about this stuff. Mostly, I have tried not to think about it too much, which only works sometimes. I like to think I'm not a worrier and I can handle all the stress that is built up by this issue, not to mention my job stress, which has snuck up on me quite a bit lately. But at this point, it's not just stress that's got my ticker all messed up. I need to get these things done and put it behind me. <br /><br />My appointment is at 10am on 3/16. I'll do my best to send an update ASAP. I might have to stay over 1 night but I won't know that until it's done. <br /><br />Choose Wiselydestratispherehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01923628921992206849noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1082843246284787812.post-43862029878436614022008-11-04T03:30:00.001-08:002008-11-04T03:37:57.414-08:00USA, USA, USA!!!Already back from the voting booth. Kim and I got there for 6am, when the doors opened. There were about 150 people waiting outside. It was surreal, driving up and seeing the line from the door of the church go all the way to the road. The sun wasn't even up yet, so I couldn't take a picture. I've never seen anything like that before. It felt like going to a concert. I just wanted to say, I'm proud of our country today. One way or another, God's in control, and people are doing their best to make things better around here. Maybe that's naive, but I don't care. I'm thankful that I have the freedom to vote and I'm satisfied with that.<br /><br />Choose Wiselydestratispherehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01923628921992206849noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1082843246284787812.post-70008746975236375742008-11-02T13:06:00.000-08:002008-11-02T14:49:34.902-08:00Knuckle BallThat's what I'm about to throw at you. This virtual knuckler will unveil my choice for November 4, 2008. It's a knuckle ball because I plan to give you no spin at all. That's right, my pick with no digs on candidates and no advice for swaying you, the reader. Let's get to it.<br /><br />I will vote for John McCain. The #1 reason for me is I believe in his philosophy on economic growth. I think that in these times of global economic development, the US must make it a priority to retain employers. These days, companies and their employees are more capable than ever before of picking up and moving to friendlier circumstances. It is important to reward entrepreneurship and hard work, promote growth and give incentives for production. <br /><br />Secondary reasons include abortion, balance of party power at the federal level, experience (mostly consideration of military), trustworthiness, and dedication to national interests. <br /><br />You can check out my brother's opinion <a href="http://jasonfoundthisinteresting.blogspot.com/2008/10/my-vote-for-president.html">here</a>. There are some excellent comments there as well. <br /><br />I hope you all will be voting on Tuesday. Who's name will you check?<br /><br />Now more than ever, please Choose Wisely.destratispherehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01923628921992206849noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1082843246284787812.post-38080274101086505372008-10-07T19:40:00.000-07:002008-10-07T19:41:04.049-07:00Townies Unite!9:05-First question-economic crisis? Obama starts by reestablishing his stance on new regulations for Wall St. McCain brings up his platform of energy independence and cuts for government spending. He also lays out a plan to reevaluate mortgage values. <br /><br />9:08-Who will be your Secretary of Treasury? McCain names Meg Whitman and Warren Buffett as “types” of people who are qualified. Obama also names Buffett but then goes into more details of his economic plan. <br /><br />9:11-Bailout concerns? M points out that he stopped campaigning so that he could investigate the bailout plans. Fannie and Freddie are the biggest culprits. O says deregulation was the biggest culprit. <br /><br />9:16-Worse before better? O says no. M says it’s possible if certain action doesn’t take place. Not exactly a great answer but a bit more effective than O’s. <br /><br />9:18-How can we trust the parties? O compares the federal spending budget to the average family budget and the basic principles that don’t seem to apply to the government. Then he goes off on his negative dredging of history, but redeems with some details of his plan. M talks about non-partisan work and its importance. Points out O’s potential spending increases. <br /><br />9:23-Priorities? Health, energy, SS & Medicare-M wants to tackle all at the same time. Rattles off some details that we’ve heard before. O puts energy at the top and compares his resolve to Kennedy’s goal to put a man on the moon. If Americans decide to go for it, it will happen.<br /><br />9:28-What sacrifices will Americans have to make? M says some programs may be cut. Defense spending, earmarks, spending freeze. O hints that people need to make small adjustments to energy use. Also, double the Peace Corps.<br /><br />9:33-Too much personal debt? O says government has set a bad example for Americans. O says CEO’s will get 700k in tax cuts under M’s plan and does not think that’s fair for sharing the burden. M does some attacking on O’s tax plan.<br /><br />9:37-Score 1 for Mr. Brokaw, no O, we’re moving on.<br /><br />9:38-SS & Medicare? O says these programs are tied to tax plans and proceeds to give his plan’s details. M says SS is easy to fix-just gotta work across the aisle to get it done. Medicare needs a commission of smart Americans to come up with a plan. <br /><br />9:43-What would you do in the first 2 years to deal with climate issues? M claims nuclear power is the key to making progress. O wants to invest in new technologies. <br /><br />9:48-What do we do to develop the technologies? M defends his voting record on rejecting certain alternative energy bills because they were loaded with pork. <br /><br />9:49-Is healthcare a commodity? O says people will be able to keep their current plans if they want to. Others can buy into the same plan as Senators. Then he takes a few shots at M’s plan. M gives a few ideas on efficiency minded changes. He also takes a few shots at his opponent’s plan. Then he explains the opportunity to open cross-state benefit plans. <br /><br />9:55-Is healthcare a right? M doesn’t like that wording. O thinks it is a right. <br /><br />10:00-O no! Time for foreign affairs again. I don’t know how much more I can take of this. M says we are challenged to be peace makers but need to be smart about the choices we make in getting involved. O rants about M’s poor judgment and lays out all the money we spend on war activities and how we need that money here at home. <br /><br />10:04-Use of Force? O says we have a moral obligation to be involved where things are bad. Need to mobilize the international community better. M rehashes O’s position on Iraq and how wrong he was. Some other details that I’m not going to summarize here.<br /><br />10:08-Pakistan? A pretty long back and forth about the situation and how to get Bin Laden. I think these guys are going to really polarize their supporters with this debate. <br /><br />10:19-Pressure Russia? M-Putin is hooking up with KGB and doing bad things but getting away with it. It is unacceptable behavior. No Cold War coming. O declares our need to support threatened countries with economic support. I wonder how that sounds to America considering our economic status. Also, do a better job anticipating the actions of Russia and other threats. Also, energy is key in the same battles. <br /><br />10:23-Is Russia an Evil Empire? O says their actions are evil. M says maybe. <br /><br />10:24-Defense of Israel? M would not wait for UN before taking action if Israel was attacked by Iran. O says we cannot allow Iran to build up nuclear weapons. We need to use all the tools at our disposal to avoid conflict. Reduce energy use, increase sanctions, direct conversations with friends & enemies. <br /><br />10:29-What don’t you know and how will you learn it? O-big, unexpected challenges ahead. Then we hear about how tough his life was and how he overcame it all. M-doesn’t know what’s going to happen at home & abroad. Unexpected times. Then we get his story of tough times and how he wants to continue to serve America.<br /><br />One more debate to go next week. I’ll see you then.<br /><br />Choose Wiselydestratispherehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01923628921992206849noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1082843246284787812.post-58870098893862004312008-10-02T19:34:00.000-07:002008-10-02T19:38:06.011-07:00Veeps9:00-I just made it home from class in time for this showdown. Looks like PBS gal will be leading our discussion tonight. Let’s create some shortcuts for this diary. Palin = P, Biden = B. <br /><br />9:02-And welcome the candidates. I haven’t had time to mentally prepare for this so let’s just go with reactions to the goings on. <br /><br />9:03-Worst/Best of Washington? B says Bush did it. It’s bad because of his policies. P is writing notes while he talks and it looks like she is very angry at her notes. P breaks into “and Everybody Hurts….. sometimes”. <br /><br />9:07-How do you shrink polarization? B attacks McCain for being out of touch and P clarifies cleanly. Team Maverick is ready to take on the world<br /><br />9:09-PBS brings us back to the topic-P brings up the oversight topic and encourages people to stop buying on credit. That reminds me of this skit from SNL. <a href="http://garritson.com/videos/pages/dontbuystuff.htm">http://garritson.com/videos/pages/dontbuystuff.htm</a> B goes straight for the throat and blames McCain for deregulation, then makes up a story about chatting with “Joe” at the gas station. Sorry, I don’t buy that one. It looks like there is a lot of voting history coming out tonight. Of course these numbers can be spun very easily. Spend some time here for more info… <a href="http://www.politifact.com/truth-o-meter/">http://www.politifact.com/truth-o-meter/</a>.<br /><br />9:15-It’s time for tax plans. Sounds like B is bringing a few more details than Obama did. A little more clearly too. They always mention the business tax cuts that are bad. I just don’t get that. Now P’s turn to give out some health care details. I’m just going to say I’m confused about the details on McCain’s plan.<br /><br />9:21-False promises due to the bailout? P is being cute about her “newness” to the game. That definitely gave them a boost, but I’m not sure it can last until Election Day.<br /><br />9:27-B is singing about fairness and P reiterates McCain’s decision to stop campaigning to keep working on current issues.<br /><br />9:29-B says they will lower mortgage interest rates and lower principal. How do you do that? <br /><br />9:30-Climate change? All of the above-approach for P & McCain. Not really man-made but she wants to talk about correcting the problem. B says it is man-made and there are opportunities to capitalize on with new technologies.<br /><br />9:36-Same sex benefits? B says absolutely yes. P would be tolerant of people’s choices, but traditional marriage is not going to change. B and P reach an accord. Hooray, next topic.<br /><br />9:40-Foreign policy? This is just a rehash of last week’s debate. Same points, same attacks. I’m using this time to eat some soup. It’s a cool, breezy evening in South Jersey. Wait just a minute, P has just unleashed B’s history from when he was running against Obama. That was potent stuff. Lots of polite smiles and chuckles. Uncomfortable….<br /><br />9:48-P is sounding pretty rehearsed about the pre-condition issue about meeting with other leaders. This issue didn’t get anywhere last week and I think we’re heading down the same road tonight.<br /><br />9:53-B is impressive on recent history of Middle East policy. Very firm. P ends up just giving a candy-coated side-step on this one. <br /><br />9:56-Nuclear intervention? P continues to say nucular. That’s all I hear now, so I’m gonna wait for B’s turn before continuing. Wait, we’re building schools in Afghanistan. I didn’t know that. I’m not sure I like that when we have some pretty big issues with school buildings here in the US. <br /><br />10:01-B just said something that made P bite her lip. She’s gearing up… She’s using her whispering powers to attack B. They are talking about war in Bosnia, Kosovo right now. P struggles to begin a response and then turns on a dime into another rehearsed answer.<br /><br />10:07-What would you do if your buddy died while in office? B says, mostly the same policies. P says, continue Maverick ways and bring reform. <br /><br />10:13-What are you going to do as VP? P will take McCain’s agenda to the Senate. B would do the same, plus advise on all decisions. <br /><br />10:18-Weaknesses? P cites good experience as executive… you know the drill. B tells a good story about his family struggles to combat P’s hockey mom riff. Did you really think they would talk about their weaknesses? B wants to talk about education, let’s hope they get to that question. <br /><br />10:24-When did you change your mind about a policy? B had trouble with judge appointments. P had some trouble with allowing budgets that she didn’t really like, but other than that, no changes. <br /><br />10:29-Closing time. P goes first. Fight, average people, proud, Reagan, protect. B next. Most important election, fundamental change, mortgage, college, neighborhood certitude, ready to go. The end.<br /><br />Anybody want to guess on my pick yet?<br /><br />Choose Wiselydestratispherehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01923628921992206849noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1082843246284787812.post-35600407300458957642008-09-26T19:39:00.000-07:002008-09-26T19:41:05.199-07:00The Heat is On8:23-And so begins my running diary of Presidential debate #1. What more could you ask for on a Friday night? Kim and I just got back from a quick dinner at the local Applebees. They had a special on their ApplebeeTini so I went for it. Naturally, Kim ordered a tall Blue Moon. It looked a little backwards once they were brought to our table. Anyway, now I’m completely geeked up for an evening with the candidates. I don’t know how difficult it will be to get all my thoughts and reactions down and it may not be all that interesting, but I want to document how this thing goes down. At the moment I’m mesmerized by CSPAN’s coverage of the House of Reps. <br /><br />8:37-23 minutes away from showtime. I will follow the debate on NBC since it is my default channel for national news. I sort of grew up on NBC and have a strange bias towards the peacock network. Although, the local NBC news here in Philly is pretty poor, so I turn to ABC most of the time. <br /><br />8:47-Here’s a thought. Some of you know me enough to know which candidate I will choose. But I will not name that candidate during this blog. I will try to keep my choice out of my notes and be impartial. You can let me know how well I do at the end. Tell me who you think I’m backing. <br /><br />8:55-I just noticed that 20/20 was doing Portrait of a President. At this point, I think I’ve learned just about everything I can about their back stories. I watched a bit of each convention and caught 60 minutes last Sunday. I just want to see them battle on the issues. And now on NBC, bull herding? What the heck is this? I’d rather be working on homework. Just need to hang on for 5 more minutes and the fun begins.<br /><br />8:58-Pre-emptive bathroom break.<br /><br />9:00-Here’s Brian. Let’s get it on. And Tom. Snacks for the evening… Water & Hershey Kisses. Simple, no mess.<br /><br />9:02-The rules are being laid out and my head is spinning. Huh? I hope the candidates understood them because I did not.<br /><br />9:03-Where do they stand on the financial crisis? We are starting off with the question that has the longest and vaguest answers. And the same words that we’ve been hearing all week. Obama is sporting a glisteny, snow-cone looking hairdo tonight. McCain’s tie is weak. It’s too fat coming out of the knot. Was I supposed to be commenting on their opinions or their appearance? <br /><br />9:08-Obama takes the lead on giving details on the history of the financial crisis. McCain also claims that he foresaw the crisis several years ago. Now he’s on WWII? Obama brings up the struggling folks on Main St. Both of these guys love the Main St vs Wall St metaphor. Their advisors must have been pushing hard for that one.<br /><br />9:14-What do you do to fix the crisis? McCain talks about growing government, earmarks and excess spending. I’m not sure how that answers the question but what else is new? Obama continues in kind by mentioning earmarks and tax plans. Is it always this off topic? If you write down the question and then listen to the answers, you’d think they didn’t understand the language of the PBS guy. Here’s an example, Hey, what do you guys want for lunch? Uh, I feel that everyone should have health care. I’m gonna let my fingers rest until the next question.<br /><br />9:20-O no! Now PBS guy got sucked into the mess and redirects about taxes. McCain makes a point about business tax that I tend to agree with. I heard a report about business taxes in China and other countries which are half of that here in the US. New slogan? “China, now comes in cheap labor and cheap taxes!” Obama rebuffs with solid details of McCain’s health care plan. <br /><br />9:25-It seems like they are starting to throw some slop. Good stuff.<br /><br />9:26-What sacrifices does gov’t make to cover bailout expenses? Obama doesn’t know what can’t happen but he will prioritize energy independence, health care, and education. Oh and fix infrastructure. McCain says to generically cut spending. Cut ethanol dollars, defense spending (overruns are bad), and examine agencies closely. <br /><br />9:30-Obama agrees that cuts are important. PBS guy says, listen up! Answer my question. <br /><br />9:32-McCain suggests a possible spending freeze, but Obama is not sure about that. McCain starts blabbing about nuclear power. <br /><br />9:34-PBS guy makes another attempt to refocus. Obama sounds good, talking about recovering from the bailout over time but considering what the priorities should be. McCain responds with more about spending cuts and leaving health care out of the gov’t’s hands. <br /><br />9:38-Obama cites “Orgy of spending.” Oh so risqué. McCain goes right back to citing his history of opposing big W. <br /><br />9:39-Lessons of Iraq? McCain gives the history. And a pep talk for the future. Obama asks himself a question… haven’t seen that one yet tonight. A sneaky tactic to gain control. (sidebar-please remember that I’m injecting a bit of sarcasm here and there) He is giving a history of the negative aspects that are probably supposed to be average Joe facts to relate to us. McCain lays out the next President’s role in Iraq, which sounds pretty confident.<br /><br />9:43-Obama admits the success of the surge but then goes right back to pointing out the negatives. Obama tries to reframe the question but doesn’t have any time to make a point about his ability to lead the military. McCain says the success of Iraq will carry over to the plans in Afghanistan. Obama points out the semantics of their votes on troop funding. It comes across as truthful. <br /><br />9:50-Obama continues his campaign of more military efforts for Afghanistan. McCain replies with attacks on the details of Obama’s plan.<br /><br />9:50-What about Afghanistan? I think PBS guy missed the last 7 minutes of conversation, but Obama picks up the torch and runs with it. He loves to talk about this one. Now he brings up Pakistan and even says it properly. He likes to score points in little ways, which probably counts for something. McCain does not want to be involved with military action against Pakistan. This might be an important difference to remember. Troops plus strategy equals success. McCain starts squinting while he’s listening to Obama clarify his position on Pakistan. Obama serves-McCain returns. Back and forth. <br /><br />9:58-Next topic please. War, bombs, sob stories.<br /><br />10:00-The one hour mark. Who’s bracelet is cooler? It might be time for some thumb wrestling to settle this issue!<br /><br />10:02-Look away, I beg you, this is ugly. Obama sucks up to PBS guy, shameful.<br /><br />10:03-Iran threat? McCain says Iran threatens Israel and the Middle East and drops the word holocaust. He says we can have a league of democracies. That sounds kind of interesting, although he just said France would be in it. No thanks, I’ll pass. Obama clarifies his position about the Iran government. Tougher sanctions, help from non-democratic countries would be good too. McCain points out the need to meet with leaders but only with pre-conditions. Obama says McCain is being inconsistent with his advisers. McCain does a lot of smirking and smiling when Obama speaks. <br /><br />10:11-How did Spain get wrapped up in this mess? McCain leaves that alone and just does more clarifying on his position. Good feisty back and forth on that one. Maybe the most entertaining conversation so far.<br /><br />10:16-Russia… what’s up with them? Obama says the attack on Georgia was not cool with him. He would tell them to stop being a bully. McCain says Obama is a little girl. Ok maybe not that far, but he makes Obama look a little overmatched on this topic. McCain is a champion name dropper. He’s got friends everywhere and they have some pretty crazy names. I think his advisers told him to use that to show his familiarity with leaders around the world.<br /><br />10:21-Redirect by Obama gives ideas for helping Georgia. I’m too tired to come up with a worthwhile joke about this. Only 39 minutes to go. He’s got a plan but changes the subject to energy. McCain says stuff that Obama is offended by. McCain stalls a little to squeeze more time from Obama, but Obama gets a quick rebuttal in. <br /><br />10:26-Likelihood of another 9/11-McCain says it’s less likely. Gives himself some love for the accomplishments of the 9/11 Commission. Gives details about the way we should do things to avoid future attacks. Obama says we are safer in some ways but brings up negative aspects of progress thus far. More focus on Al Qaeda. Make sure global perception of the US improves to help long-term security. He covers this answer well. Obama makes the point that funding for the war is directly connected to the lack of funding for other social programs. I find this argument a bit weak illogical. McCain brings out his soothing soft voice to ease our minds. He’s got different modes, but he likes to appear calm after Obama gets excited about something. <br /><br />10:36-Obama’s father had a dream. America is not the same today as it was then. McCain knows how to work with friend and foe. The End.<br /><br />That ended a bit abruptly and so does this running diary. <br /><br />So, who am I voting for?<br /><br />Choose Wiselydestratispherehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01923628921992206849noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1082843246284787812.post-48775478953865185682008-08-08T06:16:00.001-07:002008-08-08T06:59:29.175-07:00Acting! (picture Jon Lovitz on SNL for effect)Just watched Reign Over Me last night. Really good movie. It got me thinking about some of the best acting performances I've seen lately so I decided to share my top 3 actors for the past 10 years or so.<br /><br />#3 Matt Damon-it all started with Good Will Hunting which continues to be one of my all-time favorites. He's Jason Bourne for goodness sake. He loses points for the Good Shepherd, although I think that had more to do with De Niro's directing. But of course, he's one of Danny Ocean's boys.<br /><br />#2 Don Cheadle-Watching Reign Over Me reminded me how good he is. He's very comfortable and believable in many roles. Hotel Rwanda being his best work and Crash is up there too. The Family Man is fun too. Also, one of Danny Ocean's boys. Bonus points for playing Ice Trey during the first season of the Fresh Prince!<br /><br />#1 Ed Norton-Just my opinion but I think he wins this short list. He had a nice streak going with Rounders, American History X, and Fight Club. Then he was solid in The Score and The Italian Job. I haven't seen a lot of his recent movies so I can't judge his Hulk. He's in The Kingdom of Heaven too, but I haven't seen it a second time and I can't remember his part in that. Either way, he edges out Cheadle by a hair at this point in time. We'll see where these guys go from here.<br /><br />What's your top 3?<br /><br />Choose Wiselydestratispherehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01923628921992206849noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1082843246284787812.post-51524643453001678562008-08-06T19:22:00.000-07:002008-08-06T20:06:43.398-07:00Nothing to see hereI won't waste time trying to excuse myself for poor blogging habits. Even though life is busy, there doesn't seem to be anything of real consequence going on. So, the updates....<br /><a href="http://www.discoverychurchnj.com/">-Discovery Church</a> softball is in the midst of a best-of-5 series for the GCCSL Championship (click <a href="http://gccsl.org/DCStats">here</a> for stats). The series is tied up at 1-1, with game 3 coming up on Friday night. <a href="http://www.gcccpray.com/">GCCC</a> has apparently won the last 2 years, but they've got their hands full this year. I've been struggling to stay healthy. I seem to pull a muscle every other game, so I have been doing heavy duty rehab between contests. Luckily nothing has been too serious and I've played in each game. <br />-<a href="http://kims-wcg.blogspot.com/">Kim's</a> brother has recently become engaged to his long-time girlfriend.<br />-Kim and I continue to attend <a href="http://crossbridgecc.org/">Crossbridge Community Church</a> and things are going well. We continue to become more comfortable and we really like meeting people who live nearby. <br />-August is going to be the last month for me to have any fun until next June. I'm gearing up for a heavy load of studies. I'll have classes on Wednesday & Thursday nights @ Rutgers for the fall semester and I'll have School Business Administrator Certification courses on Saturdays from 9am-2pm starting in September (plus the 1 hr drive to get there). I'll be needing some superhuman discipline to keep up. <br />-Work is good and busy but not exhausting. New teachers will be reporting next Monday and all teachers return the Monday after that. And then the kids show up.... I don't think I'm ready for that.<br />-Quick shout out to <a href="http://martyholman.com/">Pastor Marty</a> who faithfully blogs about his pursuit of relationships. It's good to hear about his success but also nice to know that it's difficult for him too. <br />-Last note... check out the video of my <a href="http://jasonfoundthisinteresting.blogspot.com/2008/08/mitchells-1st-birthday.html">nephew's first birthday party</a>. Good times...<br /><br />Choose Wiselydestratispherehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01923628921992206849noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1082843246284787812.post-38338124456168519552008-06-29T16:44:00.000-07:002008-06-29T17:23:40.428-07:00By Our Love<a href="http://stufffchristianslike.blogspot.com/2008/06/305-arguing-about-what-real-ministry-is.html">click for the inspiration for this post</a>. Also see a few of the posts from <a href="http://muchfruit.blogspot.com/">here</a>, and some other relevant ideas from my Mission posts. I offer these so you have a frame of reference if you haven't been following the string of discussion as it was posted. <br /><br />Sometimes I like to jot down an idea when it pops in my head and save it for later. Reading the post linked above, jogged my memory about a idea for a post that was in response to some of the "blogversation" (new word, go with it?) with Bear Much Fruit....<br /><br /><em>"What about a Christian organization that does social work and has gatherings? Just don't call it a church. Combatting cynicism with true Christian life lived out."</em><br /><br />I feel like this is a pretty radical thought and I am even a little scared by it. There's a fine line between doing God's work and doing it completely without mentioning Him. I especially hate the political correctness that is sometimes needed to execute such a dance. You might even call it the "spiritual lambada". You put your faith in action. It's clear that you are doing good things for other people and sacrificing your own desires. But you never announce that God is the reason for your work. <br /><br />I think that's where I lose it. My faith might be big enough to do works and love the unlovely, but it's not big enough to let God take it from there. I want the result and the reward of knowing that the work was worth the effort. I forget that my part is over and done with. As I'm writing this, I'm realizing that these things might stem from my issues with trusting other people (a post for another day). But God's not "other people". Ugh, I am so hardheaded sometimes. Anybody else got understanding God figured out yet? <br /><br />Anyway, I'd like your thoughts on this issue of showing Christian love, with no strings attached and no expectations, only that you have done your part in someone's journey. Also comment if you have thoughts about my post idea that's italicized up at the beginning of the post. It might be fun to do some "shock and awe" caliber of loving.<br /><br />Choose Wiselydestratispherehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01923628921992206849noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1082843246284787812.post-83719156884716125022008-06-23T18:34:00.000-07:002008-06-23T19:37:52.831-07:00Catching upOK, so I didn't post anything when we returned from our Austin trip. I guess I ran into another dry spell, blog-wise. You can visit my facebook for pictures from the trip. My comments give you the general idea of what we did there. We really had a great time. Austin is very cool and if you're ambitious enough, you can hear a wide variety of music in just 1 night. The 2 most interesting spots were Speakeasy and the Elephant Room. Speakeasy has an alley entrance instead of sidewalk entrance. It's designed to be a throwback to the prohibition days. The Elephant Room is in a long skinny basement, and is nationally recognized for bringing in top jazz musicians. <br /><br />Other highlights included, anniversary dinner @ Carmelo's, lunch @ Hickory Street B&G, appetizer @ BD Riley's, Fireman's #4 beer, Indiana Jones @ the Alamo Drafthouse, great weather, great people, and visiting our friends. <br /><br />Next item... I changed jobs. 2 hours before we took off for Austin, I got a job offer from <a href="http://www.dueseasoncharterschool.org/">DUE Season Charter School</a> to be the Business Manager, and today was my first day there. I spent 2 years in the Willingboro School District and there were a few times that I thought I'd be out of there even sooner. But circumstances kept changing and there was potential for advancement. Once that potential was squashed though, there was very little reason for me to stay. I had some really excellent relationships there and I am grateful for what those people added to my life. I hope that I was able to do the same for them. <br /><br />Now I'm in Camden. I am really excited to be a part of a positive organization in that city. My friends, <a href="http://bexandmike.blogspot.com/">The A's</a>, are immersed in Urban Promise. In a way, I sometimes get jealous of people like them who are so selfless and committed to their calling. I have to remember that I have not been called to do the same thing and I just have to be faithful with what I <span style="font-weight: bold;">am</span> called to do. God has definitely blessed my career so far. He must have a reason for this new position, so I'll just have to keep walking with Him so I don't miss out on anything. I'll try to keep you updated as things develop. <br /><br />Next... We've been to <a href="http://crossbridgecc.org/">Crossbridge Community Church</a> 3 times now. My internal battle over this church is this... it feels comfortable and familiar, but maybe that's because it's so similar to the church I recently left. We have talked to a few people there, and they are super nice and welcoming. We have decided that we will be semi-regular for the time being. <br /><br />Quick hits...(the end, I promise)... I shot 99 on Friday on my first round of golf for 2008. Fairly satisfied with that. Got a new PC from Dell's Outlet-"Scratch and Dent". There are no scratches or dents. Got a couple of suits so I can dress like an adult at my new job. It does feel like my first real grown-up job. Hopefully I act accordingly. Softball is winding down. My team has 1 game left tomorrow. I'll be playing with another team for a few games after that. <br /><br />Choose Wiselydestratispherehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01923628921992206849noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1082843246284787812.post-80891631172651420532008-05-29T07:57:00.000-07:002008-05-29T08:11:04.779-07:00That makes 4Kim and I are heading to Austin, TX this afternoon for a long weekend to celebrate our 4th anniversary. It is slightly random, but in late April when I was feeling overwhelmed by school and my grandfather's health issues, I had a feeling that we would need to get away by ourselves once the calendar reached this date. So far we've gone to St. Louis, New York, and Atlantic City on our anniversaries, so this will continue the traveling theme. We also have friends in Austin so it will be a good opportunity to catch up with them. We don't really have plans to see anything in particular but I'll definitely take pictures of whatever we bump into. Check in next week for a recap. <br /><br />Choose Wiselydestratispherehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01923628921992206849noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1082843246284787812.post-47576435725069846922008-05-18T06:18:00.000-07:002008-05-18T06:38:48.607-07:00In MemoriamI'd like to post what I shared at my Grandfather's funeral, this past Wednesday. It's been a long, long week for me. Each yesterday seems further and further behind. By writing this eulogy, I think I was able to process some things about myself that I already knew, just hadn't really identified them. Here is my View on my Grandfather's life...<br /><br />Life was simple in my grandfather's world. You do what needs to be done and that's it. You don't make excuses and you don't look for the easy way out. You finish what you start and look back, only after the work is done. You give yourself.... your time, money, energy-your very best, to those who need it. And your family gets this effort before anyone else.<br /><br />I learned a lot from him. Most of it was very practical, logical, useful-for everyday life. And most of it was from <em>watching</em> him. He didn't have to say much for me to know what he was thinking. But, sometimes when I messed up, he told me exactly what he was thinking.<br /><br />He set goals and he worked towards them. When he came across a new type of problem, he studied until he knew how to solve it. He never stopped challenging himself. <br /><br />He also knew how to play and have fun. Baseball in the backyard. Card games in the kitchen. Bowling, darts, and Nerf miniature golf set up around the basement furniture. We made an annual trip to <a href="http://www.canobie.com/">Canobie Lake Park</a>. We went out to eat at <a href="http://www.bigboy.com/">Big Boy's</a> all the time and no waitress was safe from his teasing. He could always break the ice with his charm. It was easy to notice how much he enjoyed spending time with family. <br /><br />These memories are a small sample of the experiences that I've had during my 28 years with my grandfather. There are so many more that I get to remember anytime I want. The memories he gave me are the greatest gifts of all.<br /><br />He taught me about life and priorities, and how everyday choices impact what will happen tomorrow. That it is important to recognize the value of each choice. He taught me that it's ok to relax, have fun, be myself, and take a break if that's what I needed. He taught me that I could love my family by working hard and taking care of their needs.<br /><br />Sometimes it's easier to <u>say</u> I love you, than it is to <u>show</u> it. He chose to show it. I am blessed by his example. His way of living <u>for</u> his family. It was a simple choice that he made everyday. It's who he was, and it's who I want to be. To honor him. Amen.<br /><br /><br />PS. Now you know why I say...<br /><br />Choose Wiselydestratispherehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01923628921992206849noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1082843246284787812.post-5151621113505681642008-05-15T03:59:00.000-07:002008-05-15T04:01:42.907-07:00GrandpaHere's the link to <a href="http://jasonfoundthisinteresting.blogspot.com/">my brother's blog </a>which has more info about my grandfather's recent passing. More to come later.destratispherehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01923628921992206849noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1082843246284787812.post-64132051834273890512008-05-03T09:10:00.000-07:002008-05-03T09:19:19.120-07:00FamineI just read <a href="http://stufffchristianslike.blogspot.com/2008/05/195-believing-bad-times-equals-bad-us.html">this post</a> and wanted to share. This blogger usually keeps things light and funny but this one has some deeper stuff in it. I've heard variations of his idea, like-seasons of the soul-but I think this is a cool way to look at it. Check out his other posts too, he is right on about <a href="http://stufffchristianslike.blogspot.com/">Stuff Christians Like</a>. <br /><br />Quickie update: I'm working on my final paper for the spring semester and will be done by Sunday afternoon. Also, tonight is Game Night at my house! Those of you who have attended know what I'm talkin about. It's a great tool for making sure I see friends at least once a month. A good neutralizer for non-stop life that tries to eliminate fellowship, relationship and connection. So, I'll work hard on this paper for now, but at 7 o'clock tonight, it's party time! Go Flyers.... and please Celtics, don't.... just don't.<br /><br />Choose Wiselydestratispherehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01923628921992206849noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1082843246284787812.post-51903116642582552172008-04-11T12:05:00.000-07:002008-04-11T12:14:42.197-07:00The Mission-Part III want to address some of the comments that were made as a result of <a href="http://viewsfromthedestratisphere.blogspot.com/2008/02/mission.html">The Mission</a>. I appreciate the knowledge that others can bring to this idea and I hope you all know that I respect your insight. Church stuff has become way more complicated than it was ever supposed to be. I'll try to clarify a couple of things I said and I'll respond directly to some quotes I pulled out from the comments I received. Also, for similar challenging Church discussion, check out <a href="http://muchfruit.blogspot.com/">Much Fruit's</a> recent blogs and comments. Let's get to it....<br /><br />"I agree with this as long as it is understood that Christ cares about the ends as well as the means that His shepherds use to build His church."<br />-Yes I agree with this. My aim in laying out a sort-of generic mission/purpose is to allow room for wisdom and discernment to execute those means by the shepherds. I believe they are charged with the responsibility of knowing their community and what their needs are, spiritual and otherwise. This is not meant to dumb down the Gospel but it is meant to be more relevant to their local situations. I believe that God will do the work, but shouldn't we also try to relationally reach the people? Some people are going to respond to our love, which is God's love anyway, before they receive any part of the Gospel. His Shepherds must be aware of this. <br /><br />"Yes as Christians we are called to win souls for Christ, however, is that primarily the church's job, or ours? "<br />-It's our job. We are responsible for our relationship with God. I wouldn't say that my sin is my church's fault. Neither is it the church's fault that they didn't convert the unsaved. It's the message, not the person anyway, church or individual is secondary. <br /><br />"How do we evaluate the success or failure of a particular ministerial venture that seeks to ‘increase and advance the Kingdom of God’?”<br />-Other comments around this quote assume a little too much about my position. I strongly believe that elder and pastoral oversight is very important to each ministry. But not primarily the programmatic stuff. They need to be involved with the lives of the ministry leaders personally. Mentoring them and doing life with them to ensure spiritual growth as well as ministerial "success". Accountability is powerful and spiritual fruit flows from humble, disciplined believers. <br /><br />So what is success? I think it depends on who's in the picture. Believers should grow and gain purpose of life and their place in the Kingdom (this includes evangelism). Non-believers should be challenged to investigate the Gospel, eventually facing a personal choice to accept it. <br /><br />"sticking to biblical standards in terms of church government and qualifications for leadership; maintaining the outward purity of the church through biblical church discipline." <br />-Nothing more to say here, I like these things. <br /><br />"Finally, a quick word on altar calls. First, I want you to quote me, chapter and verse, where the first altar call appears in the Bible. Second, do a little research on the history of the altar call and let me know if you think it is a biblical practice."<br />-I'm honestly not much of a Biblical researcher at this stage of my life/walk, so this ain't happening. After reading Lynn's comments, I pretty much agree with her take. I'm not going to condemn a church that asks people to raise their hand as a sign that they are praying for salvation, just because it never happened that way in the Bible.<br /><br />I want to share my life and struggles with like-minded people who want to be like Jesus, and mix it up with unlike-minded people. And I'm concerned about a church's intentional work towards reaching the unsaved. In my definition of that, the church's role of reaching the unsaved includes building up believers-it just doesn't end there. The church is also concerned with its relevance to the surrounding community. <br /><br />So in my family's search for a church, we are not looking for seeker-sensitive or Bible thumping or any other defining label. The formats and styles and programs will be different everywhere, so those will be personal preferences. But the church has to prepare me for my personal mission which is the same... "To increase and advance the Kingdom of God."<br /><br />Choose Wiselydestratispherehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01923628921992206849noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1082843246284787812.post-38341199970798645292008-04-08T15:25:00.000-07:002008-04-08T15:31:02.343-07:00Pass it onI know my readership is not terribly extensive, but I want to pass on <a href="http://muchfruit.blogspot.com/2008/04/consumerism-in-community.html">this blog from my friend Jay</a> even if it only gets a few more hits because of it. It's part of a paper he wrote for his seminary studies. Stay tuned to his blog, because there is plenty more to come. <br /><br />I'm still planning on responding to all the comments in my "The Mission" post. I haven't forgotten, I am just trying to prioritize things here in the `sphere. I've been working on several projects/papers at school lately and I'm trying to keep pace with the deadlines. So far, all is well. <br /><br />Choose Wiselydestratispherehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01923628921992206849noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1082843246284787812.post-27919254387340297492008-03-27T07:04:00.000-07:002008-03-27T07:08:00.143-07:00Hillary's resumeIf you're not a fan of Hillary's, <a href="http://www.dailykos.com/storyonly/2008/3/26/104555/955/7/484087">this is for you</a>. If you are a fan, would you really hire her after you did some fact finding on her resume? Isn't that just bad business?<br /><br />Choose Wiselydestratispherehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01923628921992206849noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1082843246284787812.post-17429342753867809422008-03-26T12:24:00.002-07:002008-03-26T12:30:08.656-07:00for kicks<p>I've been checking out <a href="http://andrewsullivan.theatlantic.com/the_daily_dish/">this blog</a> for the last couple of days and it's been pretty interesting. He compiles a lot of political news throughout the day but this clip he posted is just for fun. Enjoy.</p><p>Choose Wisely</p><p><object height="355" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/NzrUU_Wt4TM&hl=en"><param name="wmode" value="transparent"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/NzrUU_Wt4TM&hl=en" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="425" height="355"></embed></object></p>destratispherehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01923628921992206849noreply@blogger.com1