Now I'm having to live in it! All of the sudden, a funny joke is not so funny.
Saturday, December 11, 2004
Contrasting Weather
This is a screenshot of my computer last fall when I was living in Florida. I was laughing all the way to the ocean.
Now I'm having to live in it! All of the sudden, a funny joke is not so funny.
Now I'm having to live in it! All of the sudden, a funny joke is not so funny.
Wednesday, November 24, 2004
Southeast 2
Thanks to all that commented. Interesting points were brought out.
I think that my sarcasm found at the end of my previous post confused the point that I was trying to make. Right now, I could easily turn this into a debate of infant baptism vs. "age of consciousness" baptism, but that would take away from the point of this post. Let me try to better explain my point as I originally intended it:
The World Council of Churches discourages rebaptism. Many churches, such as Southeast, encourage rebaptism. Should these churches listen to this council of churches or is The World Council of Churches a failing attempt for "one catholic and apostolic church?"
The World Council members who do not practice infant baptism understand that fellow council members practice infant baptism- such as Presbyterian, Episcopal, and Lutheran churches. When churches who do not practice infant baptism say, with the understanding that other Churches interpret baptism differently than they do, that "Baptism is an unrepeatable act", they are creating an idea of "one Christian baptism;" that baptism should occur only once. I could understand that if there were no churches on the council who practiced infant baptism, that this statement of unrepeatable baptism might not include infant baptism, but there are churches on the council that do. So what does this mean? Three hundred Christian faiths from around the world say that not being baptized again is more important than being re-baptized by one's preferred method. Powerful.
Ming pointed out that this is to "refrain from any practice which might call into question the sacramental integrity of other churches or which might diminish the unrepeatability of the sacrament of baptism." A church who encourages rebaptism because someone did not remember it (implying infant baptism) is calling into question the sacramental integrity of the Presbyterian Church, the Episcopal Church, the Lutheran Church and the Roman Catholic Church, all who practice infant baptism. Rebaptism says that the first one didn't count and this re-baptism will- the very idea that the World Council is explicitly discouraging.
On a side note...
Melodie-
"Taking his hand is not what saves you, your rescuer is what rescues you."
Do you think that infant baptism better manifests this idea?
Yeiser-
I didn't think that I was taking it out of context because I don't think that the two sentences relate to one another. I think they are separate statements, one encouraging those who don't remember their baptism (for example) to be rebaptized and the other discouraging those who do remember their baptism from being rebaptized. If the two sentences do relate, then who are they encouraging to be rebaptized? If those who have "fallen into sin after having been baptized" do not need to be re-baptized, then they must be encouraging those who have NOT fallen into sin after having been baptized AND those who lack confidence in their initial baptism experience because they don't remember it (for example) to be re-baptized. This doesn't make much sense.
Ming-
Baptism, as a baby or adult, is the first step towards the Catholic understanding of full Christian initiation. If one is coming into the Catholic Church baptized, their Christian baptism is recognized. After baptism, there are two more steps in the Catholic Church for Christian initiation: the reception of Jesus' body and blood through the Eucharist and a public and private proclamation of faith through Confirmation. Here we see the public and "personal response" follow-up to the baptism that the World Council recommends.
I think that my sarcasm found at the end of my previous post confused the point that I was trying to make. Right now, I could easily turn this into a debate of infant baptism vs. "age of consciousness" baptism, but that would take away from the point of this post. Let me try to better explain my point as I originally intended it:
The World Council of Churches discourages rebaptism. Many churches, such as Southeast, encourage rebaptism. Should these churches listen to this council of churches or is The World Council of Churches a failing attempt for "one catholic and apostolic church?"
The World Council members who do not practice infant baptism understand that fellow council members practice infant baptism- such as Presbyterian, Episcopal, and Lutheran churches. When churches who do not practice infant baptism say, with the understanding that other Churches interpret baptism differently than they do, that "Baptism is an unrepeatable act", they are creating an idea of "one Christian baptism;" that baptism should occur only once. I could understand that if there were no churches on the council who practiced infant baptism, that this statement of unrepeatable baptism might not include infant baptism, but there are churches on the council that do. So what does this mean? Three hundred Christian faiths from around the world say that not being baptized again is more important than being re-baptized by one's preferred method. Powerful.
Ming pointed out that this is to "refrain from any practice which might call into question the sacramental integrity of other churches or which might diminish the unrepeatability of the sacrament of baptism." A church who encourages rebaptism because someone did not remember it (implying infant baptism) is calling into question the sacramental integrity of the Presbyterian Church, the Episcopal Church, the Lutheran Church and the Roman Catholic Church, all who practice infant baptism. Rebaptism says that the first one didn't count and this re-baptism will- the very idea that the World Council is explicitly discouraging.
On a side note...
Melodie-
"Taking his hand is not what saves you, your rescuer is what rescues you."
Do you think that infant baptism better manifests this idea?
Yeiser-
I didn't think that I was taking it out of context because I don't think that the two sentences relate to one another. I think they are separate statements, one encouraging those who don't remember their baptism (for example) to be rebaptized and the other discouraging those who do remember their baptism from being rebaptized. If the two sentences do relate, then who are they encouraging to be rebaptized? If those who have "fallen into sin after having been baptized" do not need to be re-baptized, then they must be encouraging those who have NOT fallen into sin after having been baptized AND those who lack confidence in their initial baptism experience because they don't remember it (for example) to be re-baptized. This doesn't make much sense.
Ming-
Baptism, as a baby or adult, is the first step towards the Catholic understanding of full Christian initiation. If one is coming into the Catholic Church baptized, their Christian baptism is recognized. After baptism, there are two more steps in the Catholic Church for Christian initiation: the reception of Jesus' body and blood through the Eucharist and a public and private proclamation of faith through Confirmation. Here we see the public and "personal response" follow-up to the baptism that the World Council recommends.
Sunday, November 21, 2004
Attention Members of SCC:
From the World Council of Churches' Website:
(Churches of this council include all kinds of flavors of Baptist, Presbyterian, Episcopal, Lutheran, Methodist, Church of Christ, Anglican, and 300 more. The Roman Catholic Chuch has opted to not be a member of the World Council of Churches, probably because the number of votes each church gets within the council is proportinately based on its membership. Imagine if a 1 billion-member church had votes! They would definately take over. :) )
"Baptism is an unrepeatable act. Any practice which might be interpreted as 're-baptism' must be avoided."
From Southeast's Website:
"Rebaptism is encouraged for those who lack confidence in their initial baptism experience because they don't remember it, they were coerced, or their heart was not right with God at the time."
Here, Southeast mentions not remembering baptism, which probably doesn't refer to those with Alzheimer's disease but, rather, to those who were baptized as infants. I find this interesting because infant baptism seems to be right up their ally: faithful parents present a baby, which is not able to do anything, to be changed by God. What faith this is! Who could believe that the baby is being changed outside of its own power? It's not by the baby's works but totally by faith of the parents.
Usually, Southeast would be the one telling me that I'm saved- not by works but by faith, but on this issue I- interestingly enough- find the tables turned; I'm having to preach to them that I'm saved- not by my works but through my parents' faith. In the bible, a man was saved by others' faith (Mark 2:1-5) so why wouldn't the same apply for baptism? If they really believe that God is doing the work in baptism, then no memory should be required.
(Churches of this council include all kinds of flavors of Baptist, Presbyterian, Episcopal, Lutheran, Methodist, Church of Christ, Anglican, and 300 more. The Roman Catholic Chuch has opted to not be a member of the World Council of Churches, probably because the number of votes each church gets within the council is proportinately based on its membership. Imagine if a 1 billion-member church had votes! They would definately take over. :) )
"Baptism is an unrepeatable act. Any practice which might be interpreted as 're-baptism' must be avoided."
From Southeast's Website:
"Rebaptism is encouraged for those who lack confidence in their initial baptism experience because they don't remember it, they were coerced, or their heart was not right with God at the time."
Here, Southeast mentions not remembering baptism, which probably doesn't refer to those with Alzheimer's disease but, rather, to those who were baptized as infants. I find this interesting because infant baptism seems to be right up their ally: faithful parents present a baby, which is not able to do anything, to be changed by God. What faith this is! Who could believe that the baby is being changed outside of its own power? It's not by the baby's works but totally by faith of the parents.
Usually, Southeast would be the one telling me that I'm saved- not by works but by faith, but on this issue I- interestingly enough- find the tables turned; I'm having to preach to them that I'm saved- not by my works but through my parents' faith. In the bible, a man was saved by others' faith (Mark 2:1-5) so why wouldn't the same apply for baptism? If they really believe that God is doing the work in baptism, then no memory should be required.
Sunday, October 31, 2004
Endless Love
Do you know what today is? Some would say Halloween. For me, though, today is a very important day. Today is the one year anniversary of MoMo and RooBearPoo- that's right, one year's worth of days filled with happiness and love for each other. They love each other so much. They're so hot right now. MoMo may lead others to believe that he's not in love, but believe you me, I know better. I see through all that complacency. Congrats you two love birds! When are you getting married?
Friday, October 01, 2004
Why I am not picketing… Intro
Dear Protestant friends,
Thoughts were stirred within me due to the interdenominational dating / being "brought to perfection as one" conversation. The following four posts are the significant reasons for me choosing to be Catholic. I hope that they inspire you to thoroughly consider why you worship the way you do. Feel free to comment. I would love to discuss your ideas.
Part 1- Since the Beginning
Part 2- The Eucharist
Part 3- Infallible Doctrine
Part 4- More than Scripture
From the Catechism:
"...Many elements of sanctification and of truth are found outside the visible confines of the Catholic Church: the written Word of God; the life of grace; faith, hope, and charity, with the other interior gifts of the Holy Spirit, as well as visible elements. Christ’s Spirit uses these Churches and ecclesial communities as means of salvation, whose power derives from the fullness of grace and truth that Christ has entrusted to the Catholic Church. All these blessings come from Christ and lead to him, and are in themselves calls to Catholic unity."
Thoughts were stirred within me due to the interdenominational dating / being "brought to perfection as one" conversation. The following four posts are the significant reasons for me choosing to be Catholic. I hope that they inspire you to thoroughly consider why you worship the way you do. Feel free to comment. I would love to discuss your ideas.
Part 1- Since the Beginning
Part 2- The Eucharist
Part 3- Infallible Doctrine
Part 4- More than Scripture
From the Catechism:
"...Many elements of sanctification and of truth are found outside the visible confines of the Catholic Church: the written Word of God; the life of grace; faith, hope, and charity, with the other interior gifts of the Holy Spirit, as well as visible elements. Christ’s Spirit uses these Churches and ecclesial communities as means of salvation, whose power derives from the fullness of grace and truth that Christ has entrusted to the Catholic Church. All these blessings come from Christ and lead to him, and are in themselves calls to Catholic unity."
Why I am not picketing… Part 4
More than Scripture...
Why do I believe in a church with genuine authority? First, I believe His Church should reflect the same authority Jesus had on Earth. Second, I cannot accept the claim that Scripture is the only authority to discern everything that needs to be known for salvation. The problem is that this definition can be applied to any text, such as C.S. Lewis’ Mere Christianity. Couldn’t this book have everything necessary for salvation? Sure, the Bible is the Word of God and it may lead someone to salvation and provide necessary insight, but I cannot believe it to be the sole teaching authority. Why?
First, the early Christians did not have this teaching. They relied upon the authority of Scriptural writings AND the authority of traditions as they were being taught. At one of the first councils, it’s obvious that Peter didn’t think, “Let’s look back to the book of Acts and see what we should do in this situation.” He instead authoritatively taught and that teaching was taken to be the truth. Where can this teaching authority still be seen? Second, the Bible does not make this claim for itself. If Scripture does not say “the Word of God is the sole authority” then isn’t this a teaching brought from outside of Scripture? If this is the case, isn’t this teaching “un-biblical?” I don’t have a problem believing teachings outside of scripture, but I can’t believe that Scripture is a sole authority when it can’t even be found in the Bible. The basis of bible-based churches is self-refuting.
If I believe that God inspired men to write the Bible, and I believe that God inspired men to decide the Bible, why can’t I believe that He inspires men to give us infallible answers to fallible questions so we aren’t left here on earth walking in the dark without practical answers to practical questions? This goes back to the point before; to not believe that there is a church that can provide answers to questions, infallibly, is to believe that Jesus lied when he said “I will build my church and the Gates of Hell will not overcome it.” Confusion is not from God, but answers are. Do not despair by saying that “No one knows the truth. No one will ever know the truth” because that’s not the case. Praise Be to God that there is a church that has answers that I can trust.
Why do I believe in a church with genuine authority? First, I believe His Church should reflect the same authority Jesus had on Earth. Second, I cannot accept the claim that Scripture is the only authority to discern everything that needs to be known for salvation. The problem is that this definition can be applied to any text, such as C.S. Lewis’ Mere Christianity. Couldn’t this book have everything necessary for salvation? Sure, the Bible is the Word of God and it may lead someone to salvation and provide necessary insight, but I cannot believe it to be the sole teaching authority. Why?
First, the early Christians did not have this teaching. They relied upon the authority of Scriptural writings AND the authority of traditions as they were being taught. At one of the first councils, it’s obvious that Peter didn’t think, “Let’s look back to the book of Acts and see what we should do in this situation.” He instead authoritatively taught and that teaching was taken to be the truth. Where can this teaching authority still be seen? Second, the Bible does not make this claim for itself. If Scripture does not say “the Word of God is the sole authority” then isn’t this a teaching brought from outside of Scripture? If this is the case, isn’t this teaching “un-biblical?” I don’t have a problem believing teachings outside of scripture, but I can’t believe that Scripture is a sole authority when it can’t even be found in the Bible. The basis of bible-based churches is self-refuting.
If I believe that God inspired men to write the Bible, and I believe that God inspired men to decide the Bible, why can’t I believe that He inspires men to give us infallible answers to fallible questions so we aren’t left here on earth walking in the dark without practical answers to practical questions? This goes back to the point before; to not believe that there is a church that can provide answers to questions, infallibly, is to believe that Jesus lied when he said “I will build my church and the Gates of Hell will not overcome it.” Confusion is not from God, but answers are. Do not despair by saying that “No one knows the truth. No one will ever know the truth” because that’s not the case. Praise Be to God that there is a church that has answers that I can trust.
Why I am not picketing… Part 3
Infallible Doctrine...
If the church wasn’t corrupt when it discerned the Bible, then was all of its other teaching at that time still “in tact” as well? If not, maybe the Bible was also one of those corrupt teachings. How can we know for sure that the Bible is infallibly the Word of God? How can we be sure about any teachings?
Some Christians seem to be more agnostic than Christian by saying "No one knows the truth. No one will ever know the truth." I suppose that this comes from the Protestant’s inability to guarantee that their teaching is correct. How sad it is to not have that confidence in one’s church. Why did this confidence in a church’s teachings disappear? Did absolute confidence ever exist? I think that it did, and I think that it still does today. Somehow, the church of old infallibly defined the canon and, after that, lost its ability to answer faith questions infallibly. Why? I guess because it became corrupt along the line. My question is “When?” and “How?” did this happen.
I wholeheartedly disagree that "No one knows the truth. No one will ever know the truth." The Catholic Church is the only Christian church (that I know of) that has the confidence to say, "Yes, our teaching with regards to faith and morals is infallible. You can count on it!" For a church to claim that it has infallible doctrine sets off a red flag for me- either it’s true: their doctrine is infallible or it’s false: they are simply insane. My first impression is “What an awesome gift! The church that Jesus started provides undecided Christians with some answers: INFALLIBLY!” Ask the church anything, and she’ll give you a straight answer. If it’s in regards to faith or morals, then you can count on that teaching being truth. I truly enjoy having that trust in my church. I can actually take off my detective hat and listen; a freedom that allows me to take the teachings for more than a grain of salt.
But how is it possible to have infallible doctrine? If I infallibly believe that some fallible fishermen wrote infallible words on paper in an infallible book, then it’s not too hard for me to believe that a COUNCIL of some fallible theologians can write infallible doctrine. If you’re saying to yourself, infallible doctrine can’t be decided by fallible men, then ask yourself what in your life do you believe is infallible. If it’s the Bible, then how did that become infallible? By a council of fallible men infallibly deciding upon an infallible book that contained infallible writing from fallible fishermen. See, you may already believe in a church that can come together to form infallible decisions, you just don’t know it.
If the church wasn’t corrupt when it discerned the Bible, then was all of its other teaching at that time still “in tact” as well? If not, maybe the Bible was also one of those corrupt teachings. How can we know for sure that the Bible is infallibly the Word of God? How can we be sure about any teachings?
Some Christians seem to be more agnostic than Christian by saying "No one knows the truth. No one will ever know the truth." I suppose that this comes from the Protestant’s inability to guarantee that their teaching is correct. How sad it is to not have that confidence in one’s church. Why did this confidence in a church’s teachings disappear? Did absolute confidence ever exist? I think that it did, and I think that it still does today. Somehow, the church of old infallibly defined the canon and, after that, lost its ability to answer faith questions infallibly. Why? I guess because it became corrupt along the line. My question is “When?” and “How?” did this happen.
I wholeheartedly disagree that "No one knows the truth. No one will ever know the truth." The Catholic Church is the only Christian church (that I know of) that has the confidence to say, "Yes, our teaching with regards to faith and morals is infallible. You can count on it!" For a church to claim that it has infallible doctrine sets off a red flag for me- either it’s true: their doctrine is infallible or it’s false: they are simply insane. My first impression is “What an awesome gift! The church that Jesus started provides undecided Christians with some answers: INFALLIBLY!” Ask the church anything, and she’ll give you a straight answer. If it’s in regards to faith or morals, then you can count on that teaching being truth. I truly enjoy having that trust in my church. I can actually take off my detective hat and listen; a freedom that allows me to take the teachings for more than a grain of salt.
But how is it possible to have infallible doctrine? If I infallibly believe that some fallible fishermen wrote infallible words on paper in an infallible book, then it’s not too hard for me to believe that a COUNCIL of some fallible theologians can write infallible doctrine. If you’re saying to yourself, infallible doctrine can’t be decided by fallible men, then ask yourself what in your life do you believe is infallible. If it’s the Bible, then how did that become infallible? By a council of fallible men infallibly deciding upon an infallible book that contained infallible writing from fallible fishermen. See, you may already believe in a church that can come together to form infallible decisions, you just don’t know it.
Why I am not picketing… Part 2
The Eucharist...
Amid this world-wide unity, there seems to be a theme among protestant churches to start all over, to reinvent the wheel, because the wheel didn’t work the first time; somehow at sometime the church became corrupt. With that mindset, I believe that there’s a danger to forget everything that has happened up to now and just jump right back to “the beginning.” What has happened up until now? Mainly, the continuation of the Jewish heritage of the Passover meal through the Mass.
The greatest fulfillment of the Catholic Church is her belief of communion- that bread and wine are forever transformed into the actual body and blood, soul and divinity of Christ. To whom I mention this belief, most respond “It’s not a big difference.” Excuse me? Let me present you with two doors: behind one is Jesus himself waiting to give you a big hug and the other is a cardboard cutout of Him. Which would you choose, or is it not that big of a difference? Maybe you now understand the belief of Catholics that the bread and wine are transformed into the ACTUAL body and blood, soul and divinity of Christ. Think we’re crazy? If so, then I now know that you really understand the significance of the Eucharist!
There are many explanations as to why this is believed, but three brief explanations: 1) The Jews ate the sacrificed lamb at the Seder meal, not a cardboard cutout of the lamb. 2) It’s always been taught that way. Don’t believe me? Read St. Justin Martyr’s First Apology (155AD) “For we do not receive these things as common bread nor common drink; but in like manner as Jesus Christ our Savior having been incarnate by God’s logos took both flesh and blood for our salvation, so also we have been taught that the food eucharistized through the word of prayer that is from Him, from which our blood and flesh are nourished by transformation, is the flesh and blood of that Jesus who became incarnate.” Luther himself believed in Real Presence. 3) Read all the many proven miracles of the Eucharist, some of which include the Blessed Sacrament turning into physical flesh and physical blood. I invite you to believe this beautiful gift Jesus has given us. (John 6:66)
Amid this world-wide unity, there seems to be a theme among protestant churches to start all over, to reinvent the wheel, because the wheel didn’t work the first time; somehow at sometime the church became corrupt. With that mindset, I believe that there’s a danger to forget everything that has happened up to now and just jump right back to “the beginning.” What has happened up until now? Mainly, the continuation of the Jewish heritage of the Passover meal through the Mass.
The greatest fulfillment of the Catholic Church is her belief of communion- that bread and wine are forever transformed into the actual body and blood, soul and divinity of Christ. To whom I mention this belief, most respond “It’s not a big difference.” Excuse me? Let me present you with two doors: behind one is Jesus himself waiting to give you a big hug and the other is a cardboard cutout of Him. Which would you choose, or is it not that big of a difference? Maybe you now understand the belief of Catholics that the bread and wine are transformed into the ACTUAL body and blood, soul and divinity of Christ. Think we’re crazy? If so, then I now know that you really understand the significance of the Eucharist!
There are many explanations as to why this is believed, but three brief explanations: 1) The Jews ate the sacrificed lamb at the Seder meal, not a cardboard cutout of the lamb. 2) It’s always been taught that way. Don’t believe me? Read St. Justin Martyr’s First Apology (155AD) “For we do not receive these things as common bread nor common drink; but in like manner as Jesus Christ our Savior having been incarnate by God’s logos took both flesh and blood for our salvation, so also we have been taught that the food eucharistized through the word of prayer that is from Him, from which our blood and flesh are nourished by transformation, is the flesh and blood of that Jesus who became incarnate.” Luther himself believed in Real Presence. 3) Read all the many proven miracles of the Eucharist, some of which include the Blessed Sacrament turning into physical flesh and physical blood. I invite you to believe this beautiful gift Jesus has given us. (John 6:66)
Why I am not picketing… Part 1
Since the Beginning...
I hear people, some Catholic and most protestant, say that denomination does not matter. I've thought about this for a while and determined that I agree- denominations don't matter. I was reading an article by Ann Landers from 1996 who challenged everyone to discover when their denomination began and by whom. The challenge wasn't too difficult as she listed the information for the reader, but, nonetheless, it provoked me to think. Bottom line, when someone says that denominations are created by man, he or she is correct.
I was once asked what denomination I was. “I’m a non-denominational Christian- I’m still in the original Church.” I responded. “Which church?” “The one that’s been around since the beginning.” Am I wrong in claiming that? It’s a fact- historical continuity exists from Pentecost to now.
How far back does your church remember? I know that all churches have some history to it, maybe a small group of people began meeting and saw a need for a church in the area, so one was built. I remember when my church was still in a warehouse celebrating the Eucharist with fans blowing every direction to keep it cool. Okay, now think farther back. What was your church doing during World War II? Think back farther: what was going on in your church during the American civil war? Dare I ask even further?
The Catholic Church knows where it was throughout history, from today back to the upper room at Pentecost. The church has madesome a lot of mistakes but that’s the beauty of it: remaining together for 2000 years amid all those wrong actions proves to me how God will take care of His church and remain by her side. How else could we still be together but by God’s providence and grace?
This unified, universal church has spread across the world to many languages and cultures. It includes the rich and the poor, learned and illiterate. All are included in the Body of Christ. I was in Puerto Rico celebrating the sacrifice in Spanish despite my inability to speak Spanish. How was I able to celebrate with this language barrier? All Catholic Churches share the same liturgy and each day read the same verses from scripture. World-wide unity: that’s what I expect from Jesus’ church.
I hear people, some Catholic and most protestant, say that denomination does not matter. I've thought about this for a while and determined that I agree- denominations don't matter. I was reading an article by Ann Landers from 1996 who challenged everyone to discover when their denomination began and by whom. The challenge wasn't too difficult as she listed the information for the reader, but, nonetheless, it provoked me to think. Bottom line, when someone says that denominations are created by man, he or she is correct.
I was once asked what denomination I was. “I’m a non-denominational Christian- I’m still in the original Church.” I responded. “Which church?” “The one that’s been around since the beginning.” Am I wrong in claiming that? It’s a fact- historical continuity exists from Pentecost to now.
How far back does your church remember? I know that all churches have some history to it, maybe a small group of people began meeting and saw a need for a church in the area, so one was built. I remember when my church was still in a warehouse celebrating the Eucharist with fans blowing every direction to keep it cool. Okay, now think farther back. What was your church doing during World War II? Think back farther: what was going on in your church during the American civil war? Dare I ask even further?
The Catholic Church knows where it was throughout history, from today back to the upper room at Pentecost. The church has made
This unified, universal church has spread across the world to many languages and cultures. It includes the rich and the poor, learned and illiterate. All are included in the Body of Christ. I was in Puerto Rico celebrating the sacrifice in Spanish despite my inability to speak Spanish. How was I able to celebrate with this language barrier? All Catholic Churches share the same liturgy and each day read the same verses from scripture. World-wide unity: that’s what I expect from Jesus’ church.
Tuesday, September 28, 2004
Philosophical Question
Who's ready for a little theology thinking?
What does everyone think about the idea of praying away our free will? Is it possible to ask God to take away our free will so we sin?
What does everyone think about the idea of praying away our free will? Is it possible to ask God to take away our free will so we sin?
Monday, September 06, 2004
A Night of Nothing
Tonight my roommate Dave asked me: "You know what I forgot to get?" Of course I knew what he had forgotten because we had been forgetting for the past three days and, as a result, we were not able to go number two in our bathroom. I said to him, "You want to go and get some Smoothies?" implying that we get some smoothies and then get some toilet paper, so we are not just going out to get toilet paper. Dave expressed his concern that Smoothie King closed at 10:00. I thought that we could make it in time, plus it would be an adventure. So Dave calls up Smoothie King to check what time they closed. After he got off the phone, he said, "I don't think we can make it, they close at 10." "Sure we can!" "Okay! Let's do it!" Out the door we ran. I'm sure that everyone in Phase 2 thought we were crazy for sprinting through the halls, lobby, then to the car. We got to Dave's car parked out front and peeled out.
We were cutting it close. We were at Cardinal and 4th street and it was 9 minutes till 10. I wondered if we could call an order in and then pick it up, so if we got there at 9:59, they wouldn't pull the ole, "We're closed" shpeal on us. I called them up and asked them. "Uhh....we don't do that." At this point, we are close to Eastern Parkway; 7 minutes till. I didn't think that we were going to make it. As soon as I think that, Dave starts speeding and swerving around cars down Eastern Parkway. It was fairly exhelerating yet frustrating to hit multiple lights (all those 30s waits can add up to 2 guys without a smoothie for the night). I asked Dave if he cared if he got a ticket. "Ticket? Anything for a smoothie!"
At this point we were fast approaching the halfway point to Bardstown road. "If we hit this with 3 minutes left, then I think we can make it" Dave says. Of course, we hit another light and get to the halfway point with 2 minutes left. We both looked at each other knowing that we probably wern't going to make it. But we didn't drive all this way for nothing so Dave speeds it up a bit. I think we both felt like little kids who have just gotten their licsence. We were definately speeding and laughed how Dave was running cars off of the road going 60.
We were nearing Baxter Ave when we see one of those Radar Gun on wheels ahead that's supposed to deter people from speeding. We both wondered what it would do with our obvious law infraction. As it flashed in red a big 52, we both chuckled at the fact that it wasn't deterring us from speeding. To see the radar gun on wheels was somewhat of a relief because that meant that there were no cops around; that and the fact that Dave hadn't seen any cops on Eastern Pkwy made us confident that we wouldn't get a ticket and that we would get to Smoothie King on time.
It's 1 minute till 10 and we are at a stop light at Baxtar Avenue. We thinking 50/50 on the smoothie. At that, Dave says to me, look at those lights behind us. I turned around to see what he was talking about, but I didn't see a cop and turned back around and just ignored what he said. Even though nothing was there, Dave kept looking in his rear view mirror. He then said, I think there's a cop right behind us. Apparently, Dave saw the reflection of the lights on the dash of the cop behind us, except the lights weren't on. Was he behind us to pull us over or were we going so fast that he didn't see us?
The traffic light turned green and we started toward our final destination. We were in great suspense, wondering if we had pulled off the greatest Smoothie King run in history, or if we would show up on the Fox's Best Car Chases VII. Seconds after passing the traffic light, the cop turned on his lights. Dave's looking for a place to park at, but we are close enough to Smoothie King to park in their back parking lot. I told Dave that I would run to get the smoothies while he takes care of the ticket.
We parked and I got out of the car, waiting for the cop to yell at me- the smoothie was worth getting yelled at. I was a step away from the car "GET BACK IN THE CAR, NOW! TURN AROUND AND GET BACK IN THE CAR!" I did what the cop told me and went back into the car. We had failed. Dave and I knew that we wouldn't be getting smoothies tonight. But we were going to get a ticket. As the cop came up, we were wondering what he was going to say. "WHERE WERE YOU GOING?" Who was he talking to? Was he talking to Dave about him speeding or was he talking to me about getting out of the car? I assumed that it was me so I answered candidly, "Smoothie King!" in a voice that said "duh, where else would I be going at 10:00pm?" He then asked Dave for his driver's license and registration. Dave tried to explain our situation:
"We were going to get to Smoothie King before they close. I know it's not much of an excuse, but it's what we were doing."
"What time do they close?"
"10:00"
"Looks like you won't be getting a smoothie tonight."
"Yeah, we've come to terms with that."
"When's the last ticket you got?"
"Uhhh..."
"How many tickets HAVE you gotten??"
"Only 2. One 4 years ago and one about a year ago."
"Do you go to UofL?"
"Yeah"
"Lemme have you temporary address."
Dave gives him the necessary information, tries to explain something about his insurance, and then the cop goes back to his car. We pretty much just sit there wondering how much the ticket is going to be. The cop then comes back.
"You're looking at $120 just for court fees and another $90 for the ticket. I clocked you going 60. I assume you saw the sign that said 52?"
"Yes, we saw the sign."
"So you're looking at a $200 smoothie. Not worth it, is it?"
"No, sir."
"Well, since you are a young republican I'll let you go. As for you, don't get out of the car. It makes us nervous. We don't know what you are doing."
"Yes sir."
"Have a good night and drive slowly, would ya?"
"Yes, sir. Thank you!"
I didn't really know what happened so I asked Dave if the cop let us off. "Uhh...I guess he did." We couldn't believe it. So it was off to get some toliet paper. We drove (slowly) to Target to get some, but they were closed. So much for toliet paper and smoothies.
No Smoothie, no ticket, no toliet paper. A night of nothing.
Why did the officer excuse us the ticket?
Our apparent ignorance? Dave having the Bush/Cheney 04 bumper sticker on his car to show the politically biased cop? The cop liking smoothies just as much as we do and appreciated the excuse? Our honesty? Why, why, why?
We were cutting it close. We were at Cardinal and 4th street and it was 9 minutes till 10. I wondered if we could call an order in and then pick it up, so if we got there at 9:59, they wouldn't pull the ole, "We're closed" shpeal on us. I called them up and asked them. "Uhh....we don't do that." At this point, we are close to Eastern Parkway; 7 minutes till. I didn't think that we were going to make it. As soon as I think that, Dave starts speeding and swerving around cars down Eastern Parkway. It was fairly exhelerating yet frustrating to hit multiple lights (all those 30s waits can add up to 2 guys without a smoothie for the night). I asked Dave if he cared if he got a ticket. "Ticket? Anything for a smoothie!"
At this point we were fast approaching the halfway point to Bardstown road. "If we hit this with 3 minutes left, then I think we can make it" Dave says. Of course, we hit another light and get to the halfway point with 2 minutes left. We both looked at each other knowing that we probably wern't going to make it. But we didn't drive all this way for nothing so Dave speeds it up a bit. I think we both felt like little kids who have just gotten their licsence. We were definately speeding and laughed how Dave was running cars off of the road going 60.
We were nearing Baxter Ave when we see one of those Radar Gun on wheels ahead that's supposed to deter people from speeding. We both wondered what it would do with our obvious law infraction. As it flashed in red a big 52, we both chuckled at the fact that it wasn't deterring us from speeding. To see the radar gun on wheels was somewhat of a relief because that meant that there were no cops around; that and the fact that Dave hadn't seen any cops on Eastern Pkwy made us confident that we wouldn't get a ticket and that we would get to Smoothie King on time.
It's 1 minute till 10 and we are at a stop light at Baxtar Avenue. We thinking 50/50 on the smoothie. At that, Dave says to me, look at those lights behind us. I turned around to see what he was talking about, but I didn't see a cop and turned back around and just ignored what he said. Even though nothing was there, Dave kept looking in his rear view mirror. He then said, I think there's a cop right behind us. Apparently, Dave saw the reflection of the lights on the dash of the cop behind us, except the lights weren't on. Was he behind us to pull us over or were we going so fast that he didn't see us?
The traffic light turned green and we started toward our final destination. We were in great suspense, wondering if we had pulled off the greatest Smoothie King run in history, or if we would show up on the Fox's Best Car Chases VII. Seconds after passing the traffic light, the cop turned on his lights. Dave's looking for a place to park at, but we are close enough to Smoothie King to park in their back parking lot. I told Dave that I would run to get the smoothies while he takes care of the ticket.
We parked and I got out of the car, waiting for the cop to yell at me- the smoothie was worth getting yelled at. I was a step away from the car "GET BACK IN THE CAR, NOW! TURN AROUND AND GET BACK IN THE CAR!" I did what the cop told me and went back into the car. We had failed. Dave and I knew that we wouldn't be getting smoothies tonight. But we were going to get a ticket. As the cop came up, we were wondering what he was going to say. "WHERE WERE YOU GOING?" Who was he talking to? Was he talking to Dave about him speeding or was he talking to me about getting out of the car? I assumed that it was me so I answered candidly, "Smoothie King!" in a voice that said "duh, where else would I be going at 10:00pm?" He then asked Dave for his driver's license and registration. Dave tried to explain our situation:
"We were going to get to Smoothie King before they close. I know it's not much of an excuse, but it's what we were doing."
"What time do they close?"
"10:00"
"Looks like you won't be getting a smoothie tonight."
"Yeah, we've come to terms with that."
"When's the last ticket you got?"
"Uhhh..."
"How many tickets HAVE you gotten??"
"Only 2. One 4 years ago and one about a year ago."
"Do you go to UofL?"
"Yeah"
"Lemme have you temporary address."
Dave gives him the necessary information, tries to explain something about his insurance, and then the cop goes back to his car. We pretty much just sit there wondering how much the ticket is going to be. The cop then comes back.
"You're looking at $120 just for court fees and another $90 for the ticket. I clocked you going 60. I assume you saw the sign that said 52?"
"Yes, we saw the sign."
"So you're looking at a $200 smoothie. Not worth it, is it?"
"No, sir."
"Well, since you are a young republican I'll let you go. As for you, don't get out of the car. It makes us nervous. We don't know what you are doing."
"Yes sir."
"Have a good night and drive slowly, would ya?"
"Yes, sir. Thank you!"
I didn't really know what happened so I asked Dave if the cop let us off. "Uhh...I guess he did." We couldn't believe it. So it was off to get some toliet paper. We drove (slowly) to Target to get some, but they were closed. So much for toliet paper and smoothies.
No Smoothie, no ticket, no toliet paper. A night of nothing.
Why did the officer excuse us the ticket?
Our apparent ignorance? Dave having the Bush/Cheney 04 bumper sticker on his car to show the politically biased cop? The cop liking smoothies just as much as we do and appreciated the excuse? Our honesty? Why, why, why?
Tuesday, August 24, 2004
Back to School
I made it back to school alright. As DLo predicted, I'm glad to be back. I've gotten to see friends that I haven't seen in a while. It's the final stretch of school before graduating- three semesters. I anticipate a lot going on from frisbee to bible studies.
Now, I'm living in Phase 2 with a pretty cool setup. You should stop by sometime.
Now, I'm living in Phase 2 with a pretty cool setup. You should stop by sometime.
Friday, August 13, 2004
Last day at work
August 20th is officially my last day of work. I plan on not coming back to work after today. How is this? Through Generous Uncle Sam. I'll be taking paid vacation all next week and enjoying Florida for once, instead of working underneath florecent lights all day. I should be getting back on Friday the 20th.
This being my last day here has made me think. I may not return here. This may be my last opportunityto see the VAB up close, or stand atop the Shuttle Launch Pads, gaze at the next 5 ISS modules, or get to sit in the cockpit of any of the orbiters. I have definately been spoiled working here.
What I have thoroughly enjoyed was the relationships that I formed with my coworkers. Things are always akward with management until you find out that you both can BS. Laughing during the day just makes work more fun. I'll sure miss it here- the work, people, and hardware.
This being my last day here has made me think. I may not return here. This may be my last opportunityto see the VAB up close, or stand atop the Shuttle Launch Pads, gaze at the next 5 ISS modules, or get to sit in the cockpit of any of the orbiters. I have definately been spoiled working here.
What I have thoroughly enjoyed was the relationships that I formed with my coworkers. Things are always akward with management until you find out that you both can BS. Laughing during the day just makes work more fun. I'll sure miss it here- the work, people, and hardware.
Thursday, July 29, 2004
Puerto Rico 2
I took off work that Thursday and Friday. My flight was to leave Orlando Thursday at 11:00. I spent the morning going to church and packing my bags. I packed clothes, hygiene products, a camera, and a Spanish-English dictionary. I got to the airport and waited to board the flight. I was beginning to see how this trip was going to be- I was going to suddenly become a minority. It seemed that everyone except me was Hispanic. After a while, it started to bother me. I think that I was becoming culturally uncomfortable for the first time.
I got on the plane and I prepped myself for the 2.5 hour flight from Orlando to San Juan, Puerto Rico. Puerto Rico is a US Territory measuring 100 miles across and 50 miles down. It is the eastern most island of the four larger Caribbean islands: Cuba, Jamaica, Haiti/Dominican Republic, and PR; PR is directly south of the eastern part of Maine. Despite being in the Eastern Time Zone, it still got dark 2 hours earlier than Florida.
The flight was good. Usually there are about 3 airline stewardesses, but on this flight I counted nine; I think that they were all in training. We did get a small lunch for the flight- a sandwich, chips, cookies, and drink. I had been talking to the guy next to me and he was still hungry after the one sandwich and asked for another one in Spanish. I figured that I would ask for another one as well; "una mas, favor?" She smiled, because I'm a white guy trying to speak Spanish, my accent probably sucks, I probably didn't say it right, and the fact that I was asking for another one. I did get another sandwich, though!
I always seem to get stiffed with the aisle or middle seat. This time I had an aisle seat. I wanted a window seat to take pictures. Looking out the window, the ocean and sky seemed to blend together in one blue mass. At one point, I was able to see waves in the ocean. As we got close to the island, I could see some land. I could feel the excitement building! We didn't have to wait on our approach, but came directly into the airport. As soon as the wheels hit, the whole plane burst out in cheers and clapping! a tradition that they do every time the natives land in the island. "Look! No one knows how long this parade is gonna last! They are a very festive people." -Elaine, from Seinfeld, commenting on Puerto Ricans
I knew that I was in for a trip as soon as I entered into the San Juan airport. I've wanted to go to a Spanish speaking country for a while now- and here was a compromise, a US Territory totally influenced by Hispanics. I walked through the airport still noticing that I was one of the only white people there. I went through the doors to go outside and there was a mob of people on either side of the walkway waiting outside for people to get off their planes. Off to the left, I heard people screaming joyfully while peaking through the windows. People toward the back of the mob were hopping up and down trying to see the people exiting the airport. I had never seen so many at the exit of an airport and so many people excited to see their friends and family. It was quite a site.
My friend picked me up; it was good to see him. I hadn't seen him in over a year. Off we were, to go to the west side of the island for his wedding practice- San Juan is on the eastern part of the island. It took us about 2 hours to get there, during which we caught up with everything. I began to notice a lot of things just from that drive. The island is very diverse in terrain- it's somewhat flat in some areas with dry vegetation like Arizona and in the center of the island are large mountains, lush with trees like the Smokies. The drivers in PR are just as bad as NY. Traffic was backed up from rush hour and a guy tried to be clever by driving over a construction median to pass traffic. It actually made me mad to see him do that- "Why can't he wait like the rest of us???" A while down the road, that same guy was pulled over by the cops, who wear large cowboy-like hats and drive silver mustangs. I had to take a picture :) Also, I noticed that during rush hour, "emergency lane " translates to "lane to use whenever you want to pass traffic!"
We got to the wedding practice late which translates to "on time" in Latin time. I tried to speak some Spanish with the people but quickly found out that I could barely understand them and don't know enough to keep a conversation. They went through the wedding and they made me be in place of the priest. After the wedding practice, we went to the fiancée's house for a party. It was 7:30 and starting to get dark. Their house is about 1 mile from the Caribbean Sea, so I got to see an awesome sunset.
That night, we had pinchos con pollo y filete (kabobs with chicken and steak). Their hospitality was amazing. They made every effort to ensure that my plate was full of food in one hand and a drink in the other. After talking with some of the people there, most of those that live in PR are able to speak English, we started playing Dominoes. Dominoes are real popular on the island. I've never played except to stand them next to each other then knock them down. It was fun and I started winning after 15 minutes of playing. They started laughing and making fun of their friends who were good at the game and were getting beat by a newbie. After that, it was time for bed. We were going to get up early the next morning to tour the island.
...to be continued...
I got on the plane and I prepped myself for the 2.5 hour flight from Orlando to San Juan, Puerto Rico. Puerto Rico is a US Territory measuring 100 miles across and 50 miles down. It is the eastern most island of the four larger Caribbean islands: Cuba, Jamaica, Haiti/Dominican Republic, and PR; PR is directly south of the eastern part of Maine. Despite being in the Eastern Time Zone, it still got dark 2 hours earlier than Florida.
The flight was good. Usually there are about 3 airline stewardesses, but on this flight I counted nine; I think that they were all in training. We did get a small lunch for the flight- a sandwich, chips, cookies, and drink. I had been talking to the guy next to me and he was still hungry after the one sandwich and asked for another one in Spanish. I figured that I would ask for another one as well; "una mas, favor?" She smiled, because I'm a white guy trying to speak Spanish, my accent probably sucks, I probably didn't say it right, and the fact that I was asking for another one. I did get another sandwich, though!
I always seem to get stiffed with the aisle or middle seat. This time I had an aisle seat. I wanted a window seat to take pictures. Looking out the window, the ocean and sky seemed to blend together in one blue mass. At one point, I was able to see waves in the ocean. As we got close to the island, I could see some land. I could feel the excitement building! We didn't have to wait on our approach, but came directly into the airport. As soon as the wheels hit, the whole plane burst out in cheers and clapping! a tradition that they do every time the natives land in the island. "Look! No one knows how long this parade is gonna last! They are a very festive people." -Elaine, from Seinfeld, commenting on Puerto Ricans
I knew that I was in for a trip as soon as I entered into the San Juan airport. I've wanted to go to a Spanish speaking country for a while now- and here was a compromise, a US Territory totally influenced by Hispanics. I walked through the airport still noticing that I was one of the only white people there. I went through the doors to go outside and there was a mob of people on either side of the walkway waiting outside for people to get off their planes. Off to the left, I heard people screaming joyfully while peaking through the windows. People toward the back of the mob were hopping up and down trying to see the people exiting the airport. I had never seen so many at the exit of an airport and so many people excited to see their friends and family. It was quite a site.
My friend picked me up; it was good to see him. I hadn't seen him in over a year. Off we were, to go to the west side of the island for his wedding practice- San Juan is on the eastern part of the island. It took us about 2 hours to get there, during which we caught up with everything. I began to notice a lot of things just from that drive. The island is very diverse in terrain- it's somewhat flat in some areas with dry vegetation like Arizona and in the center of the island are large mountains, lush with trees like the Smokies. The drivers in PR are just as bad as NY. Traffic was backed up from rush hour and a guy tried to be clever by driving over a construction median to pass traffic. It actually made me mad to see him do that- "Why can't he wait like the rest of us???" A while down the road, that same guy was pulled over by the cops, who wear large cowboy-like hats and drive silver mustangs. I had to take a picture :) Also, I noticed that during rush hour, "emergency lane " translates to "lane to use whenever you want to pass traffic!"
We got to the wedding practice late which translates to "on time" in Latin time. I tried to speak some Spanish with the people but quickly found out that I could barely understand them and don't know enough to keep a conversation. They went through the wedding and they made me be in place of the priest. After the wedding practice, we went to the fiancée's house for a party. It was 7:30 and starting to get dark. Their house is about 1 mile from the Caribbean Sea, so I got to see an awesome sunset.
That night, we had pinchos con pollo y filete (kabobs with chicken and steak). Their hospitality was amazing. They made every effort to ensure that my plate was full of food in one hand and a drink in the other. After talking with some of the people there, most of those that live in PR are able to speak English, we started playing Dominoes. Dominoes are real popular on the island. I've never played except to stand them next to each other then knock them down. It was fun and I started winning after 15 minutes of playing. They started laughing and making fun of their friends who were good at the game and were getting beat by a newbie. After that, it was time for bed. We were going to get up early the next morning to tour the island.
...to be continued...
Saturday, July 24, 2004
What would you do?
You get a phone call and are informed that your housemate is in jail in another state 4 hours away. Reason: He claims that he was pulled over at night for not having his seatbelt on. The police then finds out that his driving license is suspended from not paying a parking citation, which was given to him for parking in a handicap spot in the past. He claims to not have known about the license being suspended.
That's the situation.
Would you put money in the pot to help bail him out of jail?
That's the situation.
Would you put money in the pot to help bail him out of jail?
Friday, July 16, 2004
Bathroom Blunders 3
I think that I saw the brother of the guy two weeks ago who used the Kindergarten style. I walked in, and there he was, at the sink with his pants around his ankles. I don't know why his pants were down at the sink. The only thing I can think of is that he was tucking in his shirt and didn't want to wrinkle his shirt? There was no one else in the bathroom so he must have been enjoying the privacy. He quickly pulled his pants up when I walked in.
I've also noticed that some males enjoy spitting into the urinal. I don't understand why anyone would want to . Maybe these guys have a blatter-like organ in their mouths and when nature calls, they have to spit as well. Any thoughts?
When #2 called this morning, I went into the bathroom. I found two of the four stalls occupied. Naturally, I chose the farthest one against the wall. The bathroom was otherwise empty, less the odor. The other two guys quickly finished and left the bathroom- a clever strategic move that I didn't realize at the time. A few moments later in the quiet of the stall, it was then that I discovered their cunningness; they put me into the worst senario possible: a lone stall user with triple the odor. I tried to quickly finish before anyone could catch me alone in the bathroom, but I was too slow. As I was drying my hands, another person walked into the bathroom. There was only one thing that he was thinking- BUSTED! Despite their respectable shrewdness, I'm still mad at those other two anonymous guys for sticking me with the blame for their odor.
I've also noticed that some males enjoy spitting into the urinal. I don't understand why anyone would want to . Maybe these guys have a blatter-like organ in their mouths and when nature calls, they have to spit as well. Any thoughts?
When #2 called this morning, I went into the bathroom. I found two of the four stalls occupied. Naturally, I chose the farthest one against the wall. The bathroom was otherwise empty, less the odor. The other two guys quickly finished and left the bathroom- a clever strategic move that I didn't realize at the time. A few moments later in the quiet of the stall, it was then that I discovered their cunningness; they put me into the worst senario possible: a lone stall user with triple the odor. I tried to quickly finish before anyone could catch me alone in the bathroom, but I was too slow. As I was drying my hands, another person walked into the bathroom. There was only one thing that he was thinking- BUSTED! Despite their respectable shrewdness, I'm still mad at those other two anonymous guys for sticking me with the blame for their odor.
Wednesday, July 14, 2004
Puerto Rico 1
Over a year ago during the spring of 2003 on my first co-op, I met a fellow co-op who is from the University of Mayaguez in Puerto Rico. During that time, we became good friends. Before we departed ways after the spring semester, he invited me, and another coworker and his fiancée, to his wedding that would be the weekend of July 4th 2004 in Puerto Rico. I thought that it was a nice offer and was definitely interested in visiting a Hispanic area. So I accepted the invitation. All of the planning was still in the air and I'm not even sure if he expected me to follow through with the plans of going.
A year passed with minimal contact between him and me. I still wanted to go to Puerto Rico. So, I gave him a call and asked suggestions for good airlines. He suggested American Airlines or Transmerridian. I chose Transmerridian and in February of 2004 I bought my ticket from Orlando to San Juan, Puerto Rico. It was up to me to coordinate with the other guy that was going to determine hotels, rental cars, and destinations to visit. I tried giving him a few calls and e-mails but no housing or rental car plans seemed to be solidifying. I was somewhat concerned on what would happen when we arrived in PR.
Two weeks before the trip, I still didn't have plans for hotels or transportation or where we would be going. Now I was becoming increasingly concerned. It was then that I got a message from my friend in Puerto Rico telling me that my coworker was now unable to go because of family medical problems. He told me in the voice message that if I had already made plans with the other guy that was going and was now unable to go that he would understand. When he left me this message, I guess that he didn't know that 1) I had already bought my plane ticket and 2) I had made no plans whatsoever. I gave him a call back and he sounded somewhat disappointed that the other guy and his fiancée were unable to go and was waiting to hear what my thoughts were. I told him, "David, I've already bought my ticket. I'm coming to Puerto Rico whether you want me to or not!"
He was happy to hear that and asked what plans I had made with my coworker. I told him that I didn't have any plans and that I had no idea what I was going to do. He laughed for a while and then said "Don't worry about it. I'll take care of everything. We'll just have a good time!" I couldn't believe how this all worked out. If I would have made hotel reservations and rental car reservations with my coworker, I would have been spending money in the first place, but now that he and his fiancée were unable to go, I'd be spending even more because it would just be me paying instead of the three of us splitting the cost. Now David says that he's going to provide all the transportation, housing, and food. It was a huge relief to know that everything will be taken care of going to this foreign place. I was definitely stoked about the trip!
...to be continued...
A year passed with minimal contact between him and me. I still wanted to go to Puerto Rico. So, I gave him a call and asked suggestions for good airlines. He suggested American Airlines or Transmerridian. I chose Transmerridian and in February of 2004 I bought my ticket from Orlando to San Juan, Puerto Rico. It was up to me to coordinate with the other guy that was going to determine hotels, rental cars, and destinations to visit. I tried giving him a few calls and e-mails but no housing or rental car plans seemed to be solidifying. I was somewhat concerned on what would happen when we arrived in PR.
Two weeks before the trip, I still didn't have plans for hotels or transportation or where we would be going. Now I was becoming increasingly concerned. It was then that I got a message from my friend in Puerto Rico telling me that my coworker was now unable to go because of family medical problems. He told me in the voice message that if I had already made plans with the other guy that was going and was now unable to go that he would understand. When he left me this message, I guess that he didn't know that 1) I had already bought my plane ticket and 2) I had made no plans whatsoever. I gave him a call back and he sounded somewhat disappointed that the other guy and his fiancée were unable to go and was waiting to hear what my thoughts were. I told him, "David, I've already bought my ticket. I'm coming to Puerto Rico whether you want me to or not!"
He was happy to hear that and asked what plans I had made with my coworker. I told him that I didn't have any plans and that I had no idea what I was going to do. He laughed for a while and then said "Don't worry about it. I'll take care of everything. We'll just have a good time!" I couldn't believe how this all worked out. If I would have made hotel reservations and rental car reservations with my coworker, I would have been spending money in the first place, but now that he and his fiancée were unable to go, I'd be spending even more because it would just be me paying instead of the three of us splitting the cost. Now David says that he's going to provide all the transportation, housing, and food. It was a huge relief to know that everything will be taken care of going to this foreign place. I was definitely stoked about the trip!
...to be continued...
Wednesday, July 07, 2004
I hate human frailty
Sorry to hear the ACL news about Morris. I remember him complaining about his knee not aligning properly. I guess that it was injured then and he finished it for good recently?
About 2 years ago, while playing soccer, I planted my left foot and turned my body. Well, my knee didn't like that very much so it twisted and lifted out of the socket a bit, stretching all those good tendons in there. I have had to be careful of it by wearing tennis shoes so I can't plant my feet or wear a brace.
About two weeks ago while playing soccer, I was about to land on my left foot when a guy kicked my foot out from underneath me and I landed on it crooked. It cracked multiple times when I landed; it sounded like popping your knuckles. Since then, I have had limited side-to-side ankle movement. I don't know if I broke anything.
Yesterday, while playing soccer again, my left foot (go figure) got stomped on and now my middle toe is injured.
I'm thinking that to keep from my entire left leg from being injured that I need to stop playing soccer, that or just hop on my right leg the whole time. SAC Frisbee guys will know what I'm talking about.
About 2 years ago, while playing soccer, I planted my left foot and turned my body. Well, my knee didn't like that very much so it twisted and lifted out of the socket a bit, stretching all those good tendons in there. I have had to be careful of it by wearing tennis shoes so I can't plant my feet or wear a brace.
About two weeks ago while playing soccer, I was about to land on my left foot when a guy kicked my foot out from underneath me and I landed on it crooked. It cracked multiple times when I landed; it sounded like popping your knuckles. Since then, I have had limited side-to-side ankle movement. I don't know if I broke anything.
Yesterday, while playing soccer again, my left foot (go figure) got stomped on and now my middle toe is injured.
I'm thinking that to keep from my entire left leg from being injured that I need to stop playing soccer, that or just hop on my right leg the whole time. SAC Frisbee guys will know what I'm talking about.
Monday, June 28, 2004
Walmart
So I went shopping to Wally world last night to pick up some food for tonight’s dinner that I'm preparing. I'm going to cook some quick chili; Greg gave me the recipe on my first co-op because I wanted something to cook for myself besides frozen pizzas.
2 Lbs of Ground Beef
1 medium onion
2 cans of Diced Tomatoes
2 cans of Kidney Beans
1 can of Tomato Soup
Chili powder, pepper, and garlic powder
Brown beef with onions.
Dump everything else in.
Leave on warm for 1 hour.
So, at Wal-Mart- like a lot of other large stores- there are a large amount of people with carts. It reminds me of very slow moving traffic. Actually, I almost got into an accident with my shopping cart last night. I was pushing my cart along the isle and a guy shot out of a side isle right in front of me. I had to slam on the brakes (stop walking) else I would have side swiped him. He didn't look both ways before merging into traffic and he almost paid the ultimate price for it.
And there is always that unspoken rule of forward traffic being on the right hand side of the isle (like on a road). Has anyone else, to feel dangerous, just gone on the left hand side against the flow of traffic? I have and I always get an adrenaline rush!
I've always wondered if there have been accidents involving shopping carts. So I did a Google search on it and found the following story. Makes you think how dangerous shopping carts are...
On September 13, 2001 I was at a walmart shopping center in Lakeland, Fl. At this shopping center, they have a machine that the employees load the shopping carts on and it pushes them through the parking lot, and loads them into the store. I was in the store getting a shopping cart, and putting my son in the cart, when the next thing I know I am thrown into my shopping cart, and thrusted forward. The machine had at least 90 shopping carts, so I was hit with 90 carts plus the machine in the lower back.
Ouch. She got hit, not by a car but by a train! Lesson Learned: never get in the way of a train because it won't stop for you.
2 Lbs of Ground Beef
1 medium onion
2 cans of Diced Tomatoes
2 cans of Kidney Beans
1 can of Tomato Soup
Chili powder, pepper, and garlic powder
Brown beef with onions.
Dump everything else in.
Leave on warm for 1 hour.
So, at Wal-Mart- like a lot of other large stores- there are a large amount of people with carts. It reminds me of very slow moving traffic. Actually, I almost got into an accident with my shopping cart last night. I was pushing my cart along the isle and a guy shot out of a side isle right in front of me. I had to slam on the brakes (stop walking) else I would have side swiped him. He didn't look both ways before merging into traffic and he almost paid the ultimate price for it.
And there is always that unspoken rule of forward traffic being on the right hand side of the isle (like on a road). Has anyone else, to feel dangerous, just gone on the left hand side against the flow of traffic? I have and I always get an adrenaline rush!
I've always wondered if there have been accidents involving shopping carts. So I did a Google search on it and found the following story. Makes you think how dangerous shopping carts are...
On September 13, 2001 I was at a walmart shopping center in Lakeland, Fl. At this shopping center, they have a machine that the employees load the shopping carts on and it pushes them through the parking lot, and loads them into the store. I was in the store getting a shopping cart, and putting my son in the cart, when the next thing I know I am thrown into my shopping cart, and thrusted forward. The machine had at least 90 shopping carts, so I was hit with 90 carts plus the machine in the lower back.
Ouch. She got hit, not by a car but by a train! Lesson Learned: never get in the way of a train because it won't stop for you.
Saturday, June 26, 2004
Nature in Florida
One of the things of Florida I enjoy most is the beautiful displays of nature. These vary from the gorgeous sunrises on the beach of the Atlantic to the powerful thunderstorms seen off in the distance to various insects.
Last night, there was a storm on the horizon which was producing lightning about once every 3 seconds. It was an awesome sight to see. I got out the trusty camera and tried to capture one of them. Out of the 80 pictures that I took, 4 weren’t totally black. I didn’t try taking the picture after seeing a strike because I thought that my reflexes wouldn’t be fast enough to see the strike, but instead constantly took pictures hoping that I would get a good picture. I don’t think that this method worked very well.
Below are some of my pictures of Florida’s great displays of nature.
Last night, there was a storm on the horizon which was producing lightning about once every 3 seconds. It was an awesome sight to see. I got out the trusty camera and tried to capture one of them. Out of the 80 pictures that I took, 4 weren’t totally black. I didn’t try taking the picture after seeing a strike because I thought that my reflexes wouldn’t be fast enough to see the strike, but instead constantly took pictures hoping that I would get a good picture. I don’t think that this method worked very well.
Below are some of my pictures of Florida’s great displays of nature.
Wednesday, June 23, 2004
Friday, June 18, 2004
estats4all
Andy's suggestion of estats4all is one awesome site! Here's why.
I can see that there have been over 100 hits to my site in the past 3 days.
Below is a table of websites whith number of documented referals to my site:
Andy- 10
DLo - 7
Yeiser-5
Hinton - 5
Todd - 3
The "Recently Updated Blogs" Site - 3
[THANKS GUYS!]
I can also see that Lubbers uses Netscape 3.01 and IE 6 on WinXP at work and usually visits my site daily (no comments on the ladies' bathroom?).
I can see that there have been over 100 hits to my site in the past 3 days.
Below is a table of websites whith number of documented referals to my site:
Andy- 10
DLo - 7
Yeiser-5
Hinton - 5
Todd - 3
The "Recently Updated Blogs" Site - 3
[THANKS GUYS!]
I can also see that Lubbers uses Netscape 3.01 and IE 6 on WinXP at work and usually visits my site daily (no comments on the ladies' bathroom?).
Thursday, June 17, 2004
Bathroom Blunders
Along with learning my orgazational structure and scope of responsibility, I have had other experiences that are just as important; going to the Bathroom in the professional environment.
Since beginning my co-op, I have had various experiences that have impacted me. I choose to tell you these stories in the hope that you will recepricate your own unique bathroom blunders.
Below is a list of things that I have learned or observed. They are in no particular order and are, obviously, from a male's perspective. (Lubbers, you'll have to carry your weight in explaining the female professional bathroom situation.)
Hardly anyone talks in the bathroom. When a couple of friends walks through the men's door, it's like there's some kind of shield that renders everyone mute, just like the elevators. Somehow, either no one wants others to hear the conversation or they recognize the sacred bond that a man and the urinal shares; a bond that should never be interrupted.
While at the urinal, silently urinating or, as I've noticed some to do, loudly urinating by aiming for the pool of water, I've come to learn that there are all kinds of ways which men urinate. Some keep both hands down, some have one hand down and the other with forearm against the wall above their head, both hands on the hips (these guys must be proud of what God's given them), or both arms above their head. I think the best was when I was the only person in the bathroom taking a number 2. I heard the door open and then I heard what seemed to be a belt buckle. I thought that it was odd that the guy would already be working on the belt buckle right at the door. A moment later, I heard what seemed to be the belt buckle hit the floor. Curiously as to how his belt buckle hit the floor, I looked through the crack in the stall to see this man standing in his briefs with his pants on the ground. Suddenly, I was transported to a memory of me playing with micro-machines underneath a blanket while everyone else was sleeping during nap time.
I've also noticed that middle aged men don't have any shame when it comes to taking the Browns to the Super Bowl. They just let it rip, saturating the bathroom acoustically and sensorially. I have yet to be as courageous as these men.
Today, I was gophering pretty badly after eating a full lunch. It was time to make a quick run to the bathroom. I walked in and there were two guys at the urinal and both stalls full. AGGGG, the post-lunch bathroom rush! I quickly made my way to a 2nd bathroom across the building and walked into an empty bathroom behind another guy. He went for the far (handicap accessible) stall, so I went for the near stall- only to find that there was a garbage bag covering the toilet, apparently trying to quench the stench coming from the toilet. Frustrated, I went back to my desk to wait for toilets to open up. After some waiting, I went back to a bathroom. I walked into the bathroom with a guy behind me to find both stalls occupied again! Too embarrassed to just walk out of the bathroom with the guy behind me, I went to the urinal to pretend like my purpose for going to the bathroom was fulfilled. After flushing an empty urinal, I washed my clean hands and went to the other bathroom across the building. I walked into the bathroom and surprisingly found it to be empty. (As a side note, I like it when people leave reading material in the stalls as a complimentary gift.) I washed my hands and then went back to my desk feeling great.
Any similar experiences?
Since beginning my co-op, I have had various experiences that have impacted me. I choose to tell you these stories in the hope that you will recepricate your own unique bathroom blunders.
Below is a list of things that I have learned or observed. They are in no particular order and are, obviously, from a male's perspective. (Lubbers, you'll have to carry your weight in explaining the female professional bathroom situation.)
Hardly anyone talks in the bathroom. When a couple of friends walks through the men's door, it's like there's some kind of shield that renders everyone mute, just like the elevators. Somehow, either no one wants others to hear the conversation or they recognize the sacred bond that a man and the urinal shares; a bond that should never be interrupted.
While at the urinal, silently urinating or, as I've noticed some to do, loudly urinating by aiming for the pool of water, I've come to learn that there are all kinds of ways which men urinate. Some keep both hands down, some have one hand down and the other with forearm against the wall above their head, both hands on the hips (these guys must be proud of what God's given them), or both arms above their head. I think the best was when I was the only person in the bathroom taking a number 2. I heard the door open and then I heard what seemed to be a belt buckle. I thought that it was odd that the guy would already be working on the belt buckle right at the door. A moment later, I heard what seemed to be the belt buckle hit the floor. Curiously as to how his belt buckle hit the floor, I looked through the crack in the stall to see this man standing in his briefs with his pants on the ground. Suddenly, I was transported to a memory of me playing with micro-machines underneath a blanket while everyone else was sleeping during nap time.
I've also noticed that middle aged men don't have any shame when it comes to taking the Browns to the Super Bowl. They just let it rip, saturating the bathroom acoustically and sensorially. I have yet to be as courageous as these men.
Today, I was gophering pretty badly after eating a full lunch. It was time to make a quick run to the bathroom. I walked in and there were two guys at the urinal and both stalls full. AGGGG, the post-lunch bathroom rush! I quickly made my way to a 2nd bathroom across the building and walked into an empty bathroom behind another guy. He went for the far (handicap accessible) stall, so I went for the near stall- only to find that there was a garbage bag covering the toilet, apparently trying to quench the stench coming from the toilet. Frustrated, I went back to my desk to wait for toilets to open up. After some waiting, I went back to a bathroom. I walked into the bathroom with a guy behind me to find both stalls occupied again! Too embarrassed to just walk out of the bathroom with the guy behind me, I went to the urinal to pretend like my purpose for going to the bathroom was fulfilled. After flushing an empty urinal, I washed my clean hands and went to the other bathroom across the building. I walked into the bathroom and surprisingly found it to be empty. (As a side note, I like it when people leave reading material in the stalls as a complimentary gift.) I washed my hands and then went back to my desk feeling great.
Any similar experiences?
Wednesday, June 16, 2004
Parris: Resurrected
Hello World.
I must admit- blogging is fun.
I went on a sabbatical because I got tired of blogging.
I'm ready to blog again.
I'm trying to decide about the theme. Blogger now provides some professional themes. Should I bring my "made-from-scratch" theme? We'll see.
Andy wins a prize of some sorts. Before I said anything about my new blog (I wondered if anyone would find it while making preparations before announcing it) Andy left this comment using Blogger.com's commenting feature, which is now disabled for Haloscan's comments:
"he's back! i found you! i am looking forward to more of your posting! By the way parris, you and I should chat sometime. Take care"
Congratulations Andy.
Thanks to Yeiserman for the blogging suggestion.
DLo, take off that wretched woman's link and put this baby up there.
Hinton, Let's duke it out some more...
Hello World.
[this post is brought to you by the tax payers of america]
I must admit- blogging is fun.
I went on a sabbatical because I got tired of blogging.
I'm ready to blog again.
I'm trying to decide about the theme. Blogger now provides some professional themes. Should I bring my "made-from-scratch" theme? We'll see.
Andy wins a prize of some sorts. Before I said anything about my new blog (I wondered if anyone would find it while making preparations before announcing it) Andy left this comment using Blogger.com's commenting feature, which is now disabled for Haloscan's comments:
"he's back! i found you! i am looking forward to more of your posting! By the way parris, you and I should chat sometime. Take care"
Congratulations Andy.
Thanks to Yeiserman for the blogging suggestion.
DLo, take off that wretched woman's link and put this baby up there.
Hinton, Let's duke it out some more...
Hello World.
[this post is brought to you by the tax payers of america]
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