Man meets woman. Man dates woman. Man marries woman. Man get to "know" woman. Man and woman are blessed with a little dude.
Well, we got the first four parts down, the last is in the works. :)
The details...well you don't need to know the details. People have sex and babies are made. :)
Bean, as we have so lovingly dubbed it, is due to join our world mid to late October. We don't know if it is a boy or a girl, and aren't sure if we will find out. There are only 2 hospitals in town that do ultrasounds and one of them, the catholic one, doesn't tell you. I'm not really sure why, but that's how it goes. If we do end up at the other one, I'm not sure if we'll find out. Mama Bean would like to, and I'm on the fence. Part of me doesn't want to know, while part of me thinks it would be awesome to find out ahead of time to allow for planning.
I've been doing a lot of "daddy blogging" since I found out, which I'll be posting over the next little while. And I'll also be updating with news and thoughts.
That's about it. We are really excited and looking forward to October. I'll be posting lots more in the coming months.
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Monday, March 30, 2009
Worship Teams
Church is a place of love and support. It is a place where you can surround yourself with people that will help you put your shit back together. They will help you pick up the broken pieces of your life, and of your self, and help you put them back together. It is a place to build relationships, to get together with other broken people and grow together. Church is a dynamic environment where stagnation doesn't belong. Where you can bare your soul, and you will be loved. Church is a place where you can find validation. This happens at Sunday morning services, at weekday small groups, and even during coffee with friends.
I think in order to fully immerse yourself in that love and support, and in order to provide that love and support, your ego has to be kept in check. Everyone needs validation, and everyone needs to be told they are important. Everyone needs a little recognition, some more than others, and everyone needs a place where they can feel safe. We are all broken, and we all need people around us to help us out.
More importantly, I don't think that the worship team is a place for egos. As part of the worship team, we are leaders. We are just as broken as those in the congregation that we are leading, but I think we have to be careful what we bring to the stage. We need to ensure we are providing the best environment we can to bring people to worship God. This won't happen if we are letting our egos run the show.
Over the past few weeks I have been overly interested in whether or not people can hear me when I'm on bass. First of all, the point of being the bass player isn't to be heard. It is to be felt, and missed if not there. The bass (along with the drums), is the foundation of the music, and isn't supposed to be hanging out in the front. I was looking for validation, but not in a way I should have been, or in the place I should have been. I shouldn't be asking people if they can hear me during worship, they should be worshiping, not listening for the bass. I have been letting my ego get in the way of my worship.
The worship team isn't a place for coddling or ego-boosting. It is a place for worshiping, and growing, both musically and spiritually. We need to provide an atmosphere in which people can worship, but we also need to provide an atmosphere in which we as leaders can worship. This cannot happen when we are scared about stepping on someone's fragile self-confidence or over-inflated ego.
Everyone on the worship team is a musician, be it with our voices, a guitar, a bass, the piano, the organ or the drums.
I don't really know what I am getting at. I love playing on worship teams, but I'm not very good at dealing with peoples egos. If I suck, tell me. If you have an idea that might improve my playing, or have a cool run for my bass part let me know. I just want to get better, always. I'll never be good enough. And I just expect that same attitude from everyone; an openness to grow and change and to take constructive criticism. Be they singers or guitar players or drummers. I also expect patience. Everyone is learning and growing. Pushing the limits is the best way to grow, but it also needs to be controlled.
This is less a problem that I have with worship teams, and church in general, and more a problem I have with humanity. It is an ideal that I strive for, and I forget that not everyone strives for the same ideals as me. (which is probably a good thing) Not everyone wants to put in the effort to improve themselves and those around them. Some people find it easier to settle into a holding pattern that they know works, and are content to sit there.
I am not that person. Well, I try not to be anyway.
I think in order to fully immerse yourself in that love and support, and in order to provide that love and support, your ego has to be kept in check. Everyone needs validation, and everyone needs to be told they are important. Everyone needs a little recognition, some more than others, and everyone needs a place where they can feel safe. We are all broken, and we all need people around us to help us out.
More importantly, I don't think that the worship team is a place for egos. As part of the worship team, we are leaders. We are just as broken as those in the congregation that we are leading, but I think we have to be careful what we bring to the stage. We need to ensure we are providing the best environment we can to bring people to worship God. This won't happen if we are letting our egos run the show.
Over the past few weeks I have been overly interested in whether or not people can hear me when I'm on bass. First of all, the point of being the bass player isn't to be heard. It is to be felt, and missed if not there. The bass (along with the drums), is the foundation of the music, and isn't supposed to be hanging out in the front. I was looking for validation, but not in a way I should have been, or in the place I should have been. I shouldn't be asking people if they can hear me during worship, they should be worshiping, not listening for the bass. I have been letting my ego get in the way of my worship.
The worship team isn't a place for coddling or ego-boosting. It is a place for worshiping, and growing, both musically and spiritually. We need to provide an atmosphere in which people can worship, but we also need to provide an atmosphere in which we as leaders can worship. This cannot happen when we are scared about stepping on someone's fragile self-confidence or over-inflated ego.
Everyone on the worship team is a musician, be it with our voices, a guitar, a bass, the piano, the organ or the drums.
I don't really know what I am getting at. I love playing on worship teams, but I'm not very good at dealing with peoples egos. If I suck, tell me. If you have an idea that might improve my playing, or have a cool run for my bass part let me know. I just want to get better, always. I'll never be good enough. And I just expect that same attitude from everyone; an openness to grow and change and to take constructive criticism. Be they singers or guitar players or drummers. I also expect patience. Everyone is learning and growing. Pushing the limits is the best way to grow, but it also needs to be controlled.
This is less a problem that I have with worship teams, and church in general, and more a problem I have with humanity. It is an ideal that I strive for, and I forget that not everyone strives for the same ideals as me. (which is probably a good thing) Not everyone wants to put in the effort to improve themselves and those around them. Some people find it easier to settle into a holding pattern that they know works, and are content to sit there.
I am not that person. Well, I try not to be anyway.
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
All boxes are empty!
I'm not sure if I posted about this before, but the thought of it made me very happy last night.
All of our boxes are unpacked, and have been for a few months now. Since before Christmas, I think. It is such a wonderful feeling to have everything out of boxes and in a home. Homes are good. :) Homes for things, and homes for us.
We have no more boxes in our life. We unpacked boxes that I moved from Yellowknife 9 years ago, and never unpacked. It is now all out. And it feels wonderful.
All of our boxes are unpacked, and have been for a few months now. Since before Christmas, I think. It is such a wonderful feeling to have everything out of boxes and in a home. Homes are good. :) Homes for things, and homes for us.
We have no more boxes in our life. We unpacked boxes that I moved from Yellowknife 9 years ago, and never unpacked. It is now all out. And it feels wonderful.
Monday, March 23, 2009
fmylife
Thought people were inherently decent people? Peruse the following site and you'll realize just how many asshole boyfriends, girlfriends, friends, parents, relatives, etc, there are out there. It is kinda sad. But then it's also like a car wreck, you just can't look away.
fmylife.com
I've read the first 60 pages (of 150ish). Jo's read them all. She really needs a job. ;)
fmylife.com
I've read the first 60 pages (of 150ish). Jo's read them all. She really needs a job. ;)
So I've been Twittering a lot lately. I have it linked to my Facebook status, so that seems to work pretty well. I've had the account for a year or so now, but I go the account in the first place just to save the name, and didn't ever use it. So you can find me on Twitter at http://twitter.com/xiolo.
Tattoo Consult Cancelled
Nadine (the tattoo lady) was really sick today, so my appt was canceled. I'll rebook and hopefully get in soon.
I'm also going to drop into a few other places in town and check them out. Ideally I'd like to have it done (or at least started) by Christmas. It would be fun to show up with fun new ink. :D
We'll see how things go. I'm not going to sacrifice quality for a timeline.
I'm also going to drop into a few other places in town and check them out. Ideally I'd like to have it done (or at least started) by Christmas. It would be fun to show up with fun new ink. :D
We'll see how things go. I'm not going to sacrifice quality for a timeline.
Under 230!
I haven't been doing so well in the counting points for weight watchers side of things, but I really do think the changes I've been making in my dietary habits are beginning to stick. I am definitely consuming less calories and eating less junk. I've been eating more veggies, and healthier food.
I have noticed in the past few days I've been slipping, so I think it is time to start counting again.
But....
I broke 230! Which means since mid January, I have dropped just over 20lbs. I think that's pretty decent. I wore an old pair of jeans that I haven't worn in about 4 years, and it felt so good. At times when I think of it, 20lbs seems like a lot. But other times it feels like 20lbs in 3 months isn't much at all. I'm hoping to drop 20 more by the end of June, in time for Jenelle's wedding and my parents visit.
I do think that will mean stepping it up on the aerobics front, as well as integrating some weight lifting into the mix. We've been doing this Fat Burning for Dummies video and it's been a blast. But it's starting to get old, and I need a new aerobics dvd. Any suggestions? :D I recently found out that I could get a gym membership for about $35/mo, or potentially get a Y membership for the 2 of us for $60/mo. So we'll see how things go when Mama Bean gets going with her practice. I'm noticing that as I'm losing weight that I lost a lot of the muscle mass I once had, and that makes me a little sad. So I'd like to get it back. And being skinnier, it will be easier to see the results.
So all in all, I feel pretty good about my weight loss. I've been healthy about it, and I feel good. I gotta keep it up and I'll be back into my size 38 pants in no time. :)
I have noticed in the past few days I've been slipping, so I think it is time to start counting again.
But....
I broke 230! Which means since mid January, I have dropped just over 20lbs. I think that's pretty decent. I wore an old pair of jeans that I haven't worn in about 4 years, and it felt so good. At times when I think of it, 20lbs seems like a lot. But other times it feels like 20lbs in 3 months isn't much at all. I'm hoping to drop 20 more by the end of June, in time for Jenelle's wedding and my parents visit.
I do think that will mean stepping it up on the aerobics front, as well as integrating some weight lifting into the mix. We've been doing this Fat Burning for Dummies video and it's been a blast. But it's starting to get old, and I need a new aerobics dvd. Any suggestions? :D I recently found out that I could get a gym membership for about $35/mo, or potentially get a Y membership for the 2 of us for $60/mo. So we'll see how things go when Mama Bean gets going with her practice. I'm noticing that as I'm losing weight that I lost a lot of the muscle mass I once had, and that makes me a little sad. So I'd like to get it back. And being skinnier, it will be easier to see the results.
So all in all, I feel pretty good about my weight loss. I've been healthy about it, and I feel good. I gotta keep it up and I'll be back into my size 38 pants in no time. :)
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Twisted Christian Development
I'm working on developing the definition, the concept of what is "twisted christian." Is it a theology? An ideology? Is it a mindset, a thought-process, or maybe even an attitude? Where is the threshold? What makes a Christian, or a person for that matter, a twisted christian?
I have been given this label, and want to take ownership of it. But I think it is more than what Neil started. I'm more than a liberal Christian, with a dirty mouth and a love of weaponry. Is this label mine, or is it something in common that many of us share?
I want to grow and develop this concept and use it. I want to develop a site that is a forum for discussion. I want to write things that illicit response. A place to learn and grow, and to challenge others to learn and grow. I am by no means anywhere near that place now. But I am going to work on it. And I think I'm going to use twistedchristian.ca as the first building block to make that happen. It will be a work in progress. It will change and grow as I do. I understand that it will take time, and I'm happy to give it.
Let's see where it goes.
I have been given this label, and want to take ownership of it. But I think it is more than what Neil started. I'm more than a liberal Christian, with a dirty mouth and a love of weaponry. Is this label mine, or is it something in common that many of us share?
I want to grow and develop this concept and use it. I want to develop a site that is a forum for discussion. I want to write things that illicit response. A place to learn and grow, and to challenge others to learn and grow. I am by no means anywhere near that place now. But I am going to work on it. And I think I'm going to use twistedchristian.ca as the first building block to make that happen. It will be a work in progress. It will change and grow as I do. I understand that it will take time, and I'm happy to give it.
Let's see where it goes.
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
Blogosphere Friends
I've been blogging for a few years now. Since November of 2002 I think it was, when I was at bible college and Mama Bean told me about this fun new place called Diaryland (which at first I read as Dairyland and wondered what was so cool about a milk company). So I started writing, and from the beginning found it to be a cathartic experience. I could vent about things that happened, muse about things that were running through my mind, and otherwise get down digitally, what was otherwise stuck in my head. I had journaled previously, but not frequently and had only started a few years earlier. I found I could get my thoughts and ideas out quicker when typing them out, and could rephrase, and rewrite stuff as I went.
As I blogged, I started reading other people's blogs. I started following the events of their lives (as much as they posted online anyway). I, like most bloggers, don't post absolutely everything that is happening but pick and choose events and thoughts and go with it. Most major events get posted though, or come up in passing, so people tend to stay abreast with what is going on.
Most bloggers also tend to frequent other blogs, and a community begins to develop. It can range from developing close friendships to just casual dropping into each others blogs and leaving comments. After awhile though, connections develop. And when bad shit happens to blog-friends, it hurts. You feel for the person. You wish you could help, but there is nothing we can really do. We can offer prayers, and words of comfort, but that is only so helpful. And doesn't really provide much comfort.
Either way though, it hurts to see someone you care about in pain. Whether it is your spouse, a friend, a virtual friend, or some random person that whose blog you've been following online for the past 5 years.
As I blogged, I started reading other people's blogs. I started following the events of their lives (as much as they posted online anyway). I, like most bloggers, don't post absolutely everything that is happening but pick and choose events and thoughts and go with it. Most major events get posted though, or come up in passing, so people tend to stay abreast with what is going on.
Most bloggers also tend to frequent other blogs, and a community begins to develop. It can range from developing close friendships to just casual dropping into each others blogs and leaving comments. After awhile though, connections develop. And when bad shit happens to blog-friends, it hurts. You feel for the person. You wish you could help, but there is nothing we can really do. We can offer prayers, and words of comfort, but that is only so helpful. And doesn't really provide much comfort.
Either way though, it hurts to see someone you care about in pain. Whether it is your spouse, a friend, a virtual friend, or some random person that whose blog you've been following online for the past 5 years.
Shut up already, Benedict
Why does the pope continue to spout asinine shit everytime he opens his mouth?
In reference to the AIDS pandemic in Africa, "'You can't resolve it with the distribution of condoms,' the pope told reporters aboard the Alitalia plane headed to Yaounde. 'On the contrary, it increases the problem.'"
C'mon now...that's just ignorant. I know the Roman Catholic Church is against the use of contraception, and they have a number of biblical passages to support that claim, but he is essentially saying that "religious dogma is more important than African lives," as Rebecca Hodes with the Treatment Action Campaign in South Africa says.
After doing some research (and a whole bunch of writing), I don't know nearly enough about the problem to express an opinion without putting my foot in my mouth, but I do know that the pope's remarks aren't helping. AIDS is a HUGE issue in Africa and Latin America where Catholicism has a strong hold, so it is easy to put the blame on the Church. The U.N. has even gone as far as to say that the Catholic Church's anti-condom stance is fueling the HIV epidemic (back in 2007). While I agree that it is fueling the problem, it isn't the root. Education and treatment is key. A culture where male promiscuity is rampant also doesn't help. I understand where the Catholic Church is coming from, and as Pope John Paul II said, abstinence is the best way to prevent the spread, but that just isn't feasible. At least not on the scale that it would have to be. And to expect that of people that don't follow your religion is even more preposterous.
The AIDS pandemic in Africa is apalling, and it hurts to think that such a high ranking person in the Church wouldn't be on board to help in a realistic manner. He talks about the current economic crisis and says that change needs to come from the top (today's leaders), yet he is in a prime position to help out with another major global crisis and he chooses not to. That is not living like Jesus. It is times like this that papal infallibility needs to be called into question (though it shouldn't exist in the first place).
In reference to the AIDS pandemic in Africa, "'You can't resolve it with the distribution of condoms,' the pope told reporters aboard the Alitalia plane headed to Yaounde. 'On the contrary, it increases the problem.'"
C'mon now...that's just ignorant. I know the Roman Catholic Church is against the use of contraception, and they have a number of biblical passages to support that claim, but he is essentially saying that "religious dogma is more important than African lives," as Rebecca Hodes with the Treatment Action Campaign in South Africa says.
After doing some research (and a whole bunch of writing), I don't know nearly enough about the problem to express an opinion without putting my foot in my mouth, but I do know that the pope's remarks aren't helping. AIDS is a HUGE issue in Africa and Latin America where Catholicism has a strong hold, so it is easy to put the blame on the Church. The U.N. has even gone as far as to say that the Catholic Church's anti-condom stance is fueling the HIV epidemic (back in 2007). While I agree that it is fueling the problem, it isn't the root. Education and treatment is key. A culture where male promiscuity is rampant also doesn't help. I understand where the Catholic Church is coming from, and as Pope John Paul II said, abstinence is the best way to prevent the spread, but that just isn't feasible. At least not on the scale that it would have to be. And to expect that of people that don't follow your religion is even more preposterous.
The AIDS pandemic in Africa is apalling, and it hurts to think that such a high ranking person in the Church wouldn't be on board to help in a realistic manner. He talks about the current economic crisis and says that change needs to come from the top (today's leaders), yet he is in a prime position to help out with another major global crisis and he chooses not to. That is not living like Jesus. It is times like this that papal infallibility needs to be called into question (though it shouldn't exist in the first place).
Sunday, March 15, 2009
Twisted Christian Images
When you think Twisted Christian, what image comes to mind? I'm designing my website/blog with that title, and am trying to come up with some art work. My wife came up with the great idea of bread (the body of christ) nailed to a cross. Any ideas?
Friday, March 13, 2009
Musical Tastes
I recently went through and culled my music collection. I had a ton of stuff that I have never listened to, and know that I never will. And while part of me wanted to keep it just to say I have it, my practical side took over and quashed that. This started when I formatted my computer, and when I put my 80 gigs of music on an external drive to take to work. We aren't allowed to stream music, though I could if I wanted, so I chose to bring in my collection from home. It's actually been pretty cool as I ripped all of my CD's to MP3, so I've been listening to a lot of my older music that I haven't touched in years. I love the memories it brings back.
So I've been discovering new music, and rediscovering old music. No matter what I'm doing at work, when I'm in my little server room office, I have good tunes going. Now I understand musical tastes dictate that it wouldn't be good music to everyone, but I don't hide my musical preferences, and they no longer embarrass me.
Growing up, especially in high school, I was embarrassed about my musical tastes. I was a HUGE Spice Girls fan (I even had a fan site on the old geocities), and loved all of that 90's pop. I remember one of the popular girls making fun of me in grade 10 for buying the Aqua album. It was then that the embarrassment kinda kicked in and I hid my musical tastes. I'm sure my dad kinda wondered about me and my music, but it isn't as though it was the only thing I listened to. Dance Mix '93 was the first CD I ever bought. I grew up listening to 70's rock, and Meat Loaf is my all-time favorite artist. I love the old guys, Phil Collins, Elton John, CCR, Doobie Brothers, Yes, The Boss, Fleetwood Mac, and the list goes on. It's just that in my teens, I enjoyed the poppier stuff more.
And it is still with me. I'm more particular about it now, but I still love me some bubblegum pop. I despise the Jonas brothers and the crap they put out. But give me some Hilary Duff, or Miley Cyrus, or any of those new Disney artists. It is just so incessantly happy! Every time I hear it I smile, and I just love that feeling. If I can listen to a new song and it instantly makes me happy, there is nothing wrong with that, and I'm not going to be ashamed about it.
In more recent years, I've my music taste has broadened (especially since becoming a bass player) and I listen to more Motown era stuff as well as "nordic metal" like Nightwish. I love the heavy guitar, drums and bass mixed with softer melodic sections with a female voice. It's just beautiful.
I've recently discovered this Orthodox Jew reggae dude, Matisyahu. He is a lot of fun and I've been listening to his stuff all morning today.
I don't understand how we grow up and establish such diverse tastes, but I find it really cool. I also don't understand music snobs. I don't understand criticizing someone elses music taste. How can you tell someone that their music taste sucks? It is totally subjective. And there is nothing that makes your taste better than theirs. I'm not going to say your taste in music sucks because you don't listen to the same music as me. For example, I won't understand someone's taste if all they listen to is Rap or screamo or metal, but I won't say it sucks. That's just what they enjoy. Telling someone that their taste in music sucks is a personal attack, and something we typically avoid, but for some reason we, as a society, have decided it is okay.
With my iPod on Random, the first 25 songs are as follows...
1. Afternoons & Coffeespoons - Crash Test Dummies (i have their entire discography)
2. Open My Eyes - Inhabitated
3. Made in Heaven - Queen
4. Boom Boom (Out go the lights) - Little Walter
5. High Cotton - Alabama
6. Leave No Trace - Anathema
7. O Come All Ye Faithful - Third Day
8. Old Apartment - Barenaked Ladies
9. Party Girl - U2
10. Under Pressure - David Bowie and Queen
11. Bittersweet Symphony - The Verve
12. I Don't Wanna Rock - Bowling for Soup
13. Seperate Ways (Worlds Apart) - Journey
14. Rock and Roll Dreams Come True - Meat Loaf
15. Ace of Spades - Motorhead
16. Angels Fall First - Nightwish
17. Land of a Thousand Words - Scissor Sisters
18. Daylight Robbery - Imogen Heap
19. time is... - DC Talk
20. Come Together - Beatles
21. Josephine - The Wallflowers
22. Birthday - Quietdrive
23. Next to you - Jordin Sparks
24. Out Tonight - Rent Soundtrack
25. 22 Acacia Avenue - Iron Maiden
Judge it, or not. But stop being music snobs. Just because someone doesn't like your favorite band, doesn't mean their taste in music is shit.
So I've been discovering new music, and rediscovering old music. No matter what I'm doing at work, when I'm in my little server room office, I have good tunes going. Now I understand musical tastes dictate that it wouldn't be good music to everyone, but I don't hide my musical preferences, and they no longer embarrass me.
Growing up, especially in high school, I was embarrassed about my musical tastes. I was a HUGE Spice Girls fan (I even had a fan site on the old geocities), and loved all of that 90's pop. I remember one of the popular girls making fun of me in grade 10 for buying the Aqua album. It was then that the embarrassment kinda kicked in and I hid my musical tastes. I'm sure my dad kinda wondered about me and my music, but it isn't as though it was the only thing I listened to. Dance Mix '93 was the first CD I ever bought. I grew up listening to 70's rock, and Meat Loaf is my all-time favorite artist. I love the old guys, Phil Collins, Elton John, CCR, Doobie Brothers, Yes, The Boss, Fleetwood Mac, and the list goes on. It's just that in my teens, I enjoyed the poppier stuff more.
And it is still with me. I'm more particular about it now, but I still love me some bubblegum pop. I despise the Jonas brothers and the crap they put out. But give me some Hilary Duff, or Miley Cyrus, or any of those new Disney artists. It is just so incessantly happy! Every time I hear it I smile, and I just love that feeling. If I can listen to a new song and it instantly makes me happy, there is nothing wrong with that, and I'm not going to be ashamed about it.
In more recent years, I've my music taste has broadened (especially since becoming a bass player) and I listen to more Motown era stuff as well as "nordic metal" like Nightwish. I love the heavy guitar, drums and bass mixed with softer melodic sections with a female voice. It's just beautiful.
I've recently discovered this Orthodox Jew reggae dude, Matisyahu. He is a lot of fun and I've been listening to his stuff all morning today.
I don't understand how we grow up and establish such diverse tastes, but I find it really cool. I also don't understand music snobs. I don't understand criticizing someone elses music taste. How can you tell someone that their music taste sucks? It is totally subjective. And there is nothing that makes your taste better than theirs. I'm not going to say your taste in music sucks because you don't listen to the same music as me. For example, I won't understand someone's taste if all they listen to is Rap or screamo or metal, but I won't say it sucks. That's just what they enjoy. Telling someone that their taste in music sucks is a personal attack, and something we typically avoid, but for some reason we, as a society, have decided it is okay.
With my iPod on Random, the first 25 songs are as follows...
1. Afternoons & Coffeespoons - Crash Test Dummies (i have their entire discography)
2. Open My Eyes - Inhabitated
3. Made in Heaven - Queen
4. Boom Boom (Out go the lights) - Little Walter
5. High Cotton - Alabama
6. Leave No Trace - Anathema
7. O Come All Ye Faithful - Third Day
8. Old Apartment - Barenaked Ladies
9. Party Girl - U2
10. Under Pressure - David Bowie and Queen
11. Bittersweet Symphony - The Verve
12. I Don't Wanna Rock - Bowling for Soup
13. Seperate Ways (Worlds Apart) - Journey
14. Rock and Roll Dreams Come True - Meat Loaf
15. Ace of Spades - Motorhead
16. Angels Fall First - Nightwish
17. Land of a Thousand Words - Scissor Sisters
18. Daylight Robbery - Imogen Heap
19. time is... - DC Talk
20. Come Together - Beatles
21. Josephine - The Wallflowers
22. Birthday - Quietdrive
23. Next to you - Jordin Sparks
24. Out Tonight - Rent Soundtrack
25. 22 Acacia Avenue - Iron Maiden
Judge it, or not. But stop being music snobs. Just because someone doesn't like your favorite band, doesn't mean their taste in music is shit.
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Bunch o'stuff
~ I just read a cool story that Fieldy (the bass player from Korn) has become a Christian. As a fellow bass player and Christian, I think it's kinda cool.
~ I wish I had $350 to buy the original artwork for this. I might settle for a $25 print. But seriously, how cool would it be to own an original piece of Bizarro artwork? I think it would be awesome.
~ At our small group last night, we discussed Exodus 20:7, "You must not misuse the name of the Lord your God. The Lord will not let you go unpunished if you misuse his name." We came to the conclusion that it is far more a misuse of God's name to protest with signs stating "God Hates Fags" and protest abortions in the name of God than to say things like "God Dammit" or "Jesus Christ".
~ I think everyone should know that in reference to prenatal ultrasounds that, "NO STUDIES have been done which prove the safety of these devices, and the American Medical Association recommends AGAINST unnecessary exposure."
~ I wish I could read Christian News websites without being inundated with their pro-life bullshit, as though being pro-life is a requirement of being Christian.
~ I love Britney Spears' new video, If U Seek Amy. Say it out loud. Get it?
(F U C K ME)
It's fun, and catchy, and Britney is lookin' good again. And I just love her singing, so... I wish I could catch one of her concerts, but then I can't even afford to go see No Doubt.
~ I felt old at work (school) the other day. A bunch of the kids were excitedly talking about the fact that Paramour was coming to town. Yes, they are. But they are an opening act, for a much better act. No Doubt. Which, unfortunately, they didn't really care about.
~ I get to play at church this week! And for the next 3 weeks! Yay!
~ I wish I had $350 to buy the original artwork for this. I might settle for a $25 print. But seriously, how cool would it be to own an original piece of Bizarro artwork? I think it would be awesome.
~ At our small group last night, we discussed Exodus 20:7, "You must not misuse the name of the Lord your God. The Lord will not let you go unpunished if you misuse his name." We came to the conclusion that it is far more a misuse of God's name to protest with signs stating "God Hates Fags" and protest abortions in the name of God than to say things like "God Dammit" or "Jesus Christ".
~ I think everyone should know that in reference to prenatal ultrasounds that, "NO STUDIES have been done which prove the safety of these devices, and the American Medical Association recommends AGAINST unnecessary exposure."
~ I wish I could read Christian News websites without being inundated with their pro-life bullshit, as though being pro-life is a requirement of being Christian.
~ I love Britney Spears' new video, If U Seek Amy. Say it out loud. Get it?
(F U C K ME)
It's fun, and catchy, and Britney is lookin' good again. And I just love her singing, so... I wish I could catch one of her concerts, but then I can't even afford to go see No Doubt.
~ I felt old at work (school) the other day. A bunch of the kids were excitedly talking about the fact that Paramour was coming to town. Yes, they are. But they are an opening act, for a much better act. No Doubt. Which, unfortunately, they didn't really care about.
~ I get to play at church this week! And for the next 3 weeks! Yay!
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Tattoo Consult
I have booked a consult with Nadine at Metamorphosis for a tattoo consult. She is absolutely amazing, so I'm kind of excited. The downside, it's about a year before I can get in.
So we'll see how it goes.
So we'll see how it goes.
Monday, March 09, 2009
Giant Mine Article
This is a great article that discusses one of the biggest events of my childhood and is inspiring an upcoming blogpost.
An opportunity for love and forgiveness
Yesterday we received some rather shocking news that at first just made me laugh, but was quickly followed by sadness.
I wrote a post about it immediately following about the big scandal. But shortly after posting it I deleted it. Why? Because I hate to be a gossip. I hate those gossip sites that slander people all over the internet and write about shit they have no idea about. And that's what I found myself doing. I don't want to be one of those people. I try very hard not to be a gossip. So I removed it, figuring I could write it in a more respectful way. In a way that conveys the shittiness of it all, instead of sensationalizing it. It is an opportunity to practice love and forgiveness.
As Christians, as church-goers, we are often guilty of placing our Pastors* on a pedestal. This has been happening since the beginning of Christendom, and will continue to occur for various reasons. We often see them as intermediaries between us and God. Or as more spiritual than us because they know more scripture, or because they have devoted their lives to ministry and are therefore closer to God. I am guilty of it. They are where I want to be. They are knowledgable about the things I want to be knowledgable about, and are doing the job I want to do.
We often forget that they are men and women just like us. They have their faults and misgivings, and they fuck-up just as bad as the next person. So when they fall, it is as though they are falling farther, and landing harder than need be. They need love and forgiveness just like we do. And we are just as capable of providing this love and forgiveness as they are/were to us.
Mama Bean and I used to attend this amazing church. We were loved and welcomed from the moment we arrived. It was a place where we started and grew some amazing relationships. It helped strengthen our relationship with each other, and with God. Our friends there made leaving Calgary very difficult to do, and we miss them. It was the kind of church where you walked in the door and there were people there to greet you; people that were genuinely happy to see you. We got plugged in quickly, joining a small group (care group), and playing/singing on the worship team. Mama Bean made the decision to get baptized, and a bunch of her friends showed up to show their support. It was a wonderful place. It was a good definition of church.
Last year the children's pastor had a baby. It was a bit of a shock since her husband had gotten a vesectomy so there were lots of stories about how they aren't 100% effective.
Earlier this year the lead pastor (who planted the church just 2 years previous) made the decision to leave ministry after 15 years to become a firefighter.
Yesterday we find out the new baby is the result of a 2 year affair between the children's pastor and the former lead pastor. Both pastors are married with kids.
To say it was a shock is an understatement. And I think if I was in church when the announcement was made, my internal filter would have failed and I would have laughed out loud. But that was my first response. I just laughed. I thought it was hilarious. This kind of shit doesn't happen in real life, not in our cirle of influence anyway. This is the kind of shit that happens on TV, or at least in the states, not here.
So yeah. I'm sure there are a million and one rumors flying around right now, and alot of hurt and pissed off people. Initially I was one of them, but then I realized what a perfect opportunity this is to demonstrate love and forgiveness. These two are no better or worse than we are. They are human and flawed just like the rest of us. Now is the time to demonstrate God's love. The love that they have shown us for the past couple of years since the start of the church. They may have had this big secret the entire time, but I don't think that diminishes the power of their love or actions.
I hope the two of them find the love and forgiveness they need and deserve. They have my forgiveness. And love. And prayers. And I hope others see this as an opportunity to really live like Christ did.
*not sure if this word needs to be capilatized
I wrote a post about it immediately following about the big scandal. But shortly after posting it I deleted it. Why? Because I hate to be a gossip. I hate those gossip sites that slander people all over the internet and write about shit they have no idea about. And that's what I found myself doing. I don't want to be one of those people. I try very hard not to be a gossip. So I removed it, figuring I could write it in a more respectful way. In a way that conveys the shittiness of it all, instead of sensationalizing it. It is an opportunity to practice love and forgiveness.
As Christians, as church-goers, we are often guilty of placing our Pastors* on a pedestal. This has been happening since the beginning of Christendom, and will continue to occur for various reasons. We often see them as intermediaries between us and God. Or as more spiritual than us because they know more scripture, or because they have devoted their lives to ministry and are therefore closer to God. I am guilty of it. They are where I want to be. They are knowledgable about the things I want to be knowledgable about, and are doing the job I want to do.
We often forget that they are men and women just like us. They have their faults and misgivings, and they fuck-up just as bad as the next person. So when they fall, it is as though they are falling farther, and landing harder than need be. They need love and forgiveness just like we do. And we are just as capable of providing this love and forgiveness as they are/were to us.
Mama Bean and I used to attend this amazing church. We were loved and welcomed from the moment we arrived. It was a place where we started and grew some amazing relationships. It helped strengthen our relationship with each other, and with God. Our friends there made leaving Calgary very difficult to do, and we miss them. It was the kind of church where you walked in the door and there were people there to greet you; people that were genuinely happy to see you. We got plugged in quickly, joining a small group (care group), and playing/singing on the worship team. Mama Bean made the decision to get baptized, and a bunch of her friends showed up to show their support. It was a wonderful place. It was a good definition of church.
Last year the children's pastor had a baby. It was a bit of a shock since her husband had gotten a vesectomy so there were lots of stories about how they aren't 100% effective.
Earlier this year the lead pastor (who planted the church just 2 years previous) made the decision to leave ministry after 15 years to become a firefighter.
Yesterday we find out the new baby is the result of a 2 year affair between the children's pastor and the former lead pastor. Both pastors are married with kids.
To say it was a shock is an understatement. And I think if I was in church when the announcement was made, my internal filter would have failed and I would have laughed out loud. But that was my first response. I just laughed. I thought it was hilarious. This kind of shit doesn't happen in real life, not in our cirle of influence anyway. This is the kind of shit that happens on TV, or at least in the states, not here.
So yeah. I'm sure there are a million and one rumors flying around right now, and alot of hurt and pissed off people. Initially I was one of them, but then I realized what a perfect opportunity this is to demonstrate love and forgiveness. These two are no better or worse than we are. They are human and flawed just like the rest of us. Now is the time to demonstrate God's love. The love that they have shown us for the past couple of years since the start of the church. They may have had this big secret the entire time, but I don't think that diminishes the power of their love or actions.
I hope the two of them find the love and forgiveness they need and deserve. They have my forgiveness. And love. And prayers. And I hope others see this as an opportunity to really live like Christ did.
*not sure if this word needs to be capilatized
Sunday, March 08, 2009
Removed Post
I heard big news today, and wrote a big post about it. But I removed it, because it isn't something I should be writing. I shouldn't write disrespectful gossip and spread it around the internet. I can write something better. And will.
So if you got an RSS update saying there was an update, I removed it.
So if you got an RSS update saying there was an update, I removed it.
Friday, March 06, 2009
Tattoo progress
I've finally started taking steps towards getting this tattoo process started. The first step, check out local artists and shops to see who's out there, and the kind of work they do. I've found two places in town that have their artist's work online that I was able to check out. One place is Metamorphosis and the other is Tattoos for the Individual. There are 3 ladies at Metamorphosis, all of which do amazing work. I really liked this one artist's style, but she is leaving town in May so she isn't taking on any big projects. I'd like to go down and see some more work from the other girls, which I'll hopefully do this weekend. The other place, Tattoos for the Individual, has this amazing artist, Kurt. I've looked at his stuff online, and it's absolutely amazing. He does lots of bigger pieces (I'm finding it difficult to find places with larger pieces of art) and I just love his style. The thing is, it's pretty dark stuff. Skulls are his specialty, but he has plently of other things that showcase his work really well. My proposed piece doesn't really fit into his normal line of work, and when I called today, the lady that answered the phone said as much. I call, tell her what I'm looking for, and she asks, "Have you seen the type of work he does?" Which made me laugh a little. "I have. It's dark, and this isn't really they kind of work he does," I explain, "But his work is amazing, so I thought I'd check anyway." So she took my number, and said she'd talk to him about it and call me back. She didn't seem to optimistic, but I figure it's worth a shot.
This process is taking me awhile as I find tattoo shops to be intimidating places. They usually aren't, but I just have that image burned into my brain of some sleazy, dirty backroom parlour. Which most of them aren't. So I just have to build up some nerve, especially since I'm not so good at dealing with new people as it is.
I still don't have quiet enough money, but I want to get the ball rolling and find out exactly what I need so that I can put in the extra time to get it.
This process is taking me awhile as I find tattoo shops to be intimidating places. They usually aren't, but I just have that image burned into my brain of some sleazy, dirty backroom parlour. Which most of them aren't. So I just have to build up some nerve, especially since I'm not so good at dealing with new people as it is.
I still don't have quiet enough money, but I want to get the ball rolling and find out exactly what I need so that I can put in the extra time to get it.
Thursday, March 05, 2009
Gayified Meatloaf
So right now we are watching Tuesday's American Idol. The one where Nathanial Marshall "sings" Meatloaf's "I would do anything for love".
(See video here, and skim about 2 minutes in)
When he came out and said he was going to sing Meatloaf, I cringed. I wanted to hide. And then what does he do? He "gayified" it. Not gay as in bad, though it was bad, but gay as in gay gay. The dancing, the headband, the voice... As Paula said, he did the "Boy George version". And it makes me want to cringe and hide under the table.
(See video here, and skim about 2 minutes in)
When he came out and said he was going to sing Meatloaf, I cringed. I wanted to hide. And then what does he do? He "gayified" it. Not gay as in bad, though it was bad, but gay as in gay gay. The dancing, the headband, the voice... As Paula said, he did the "Boy George version". And it makes me want to cringe and hide under the table.
Wednesday, March 04, 2009
Sermons
I really enjoy listening to sermons. They are essentially free teaching for those that want to learn. A few years back, when I decided that I wanted to pursue a life in ministry, I started paying a little more attention to sermons, and those giving the sermons. So along with the topic of the sermon, I also pay attention to the format of the sermon, as well as how the speaker is speaking. I also sit there and think about how I would do it differently, whether that is a change to the delivery style, the format, or the way the point was explained.
Everyone preaches a little differently. There are the crazy fire and brimstone guys, the ones always looking for a laugh, those that take the Bible verses back to the greek and hebrew texts, those that preach a prosperity message and everyone in between. Some people walk back and forth across the stage, some stand at a pulpit, and others sit on a stool at the same level as the congregation. Some preach from memory, and some spend most of their time reading aloud their notes. Some have a very structured sermon with a beginning, middle, and end, while some just meander around. Everywhere I go, everyone I listen to, I learn something. I've learned what I like and don't like as well as what seems to work for the congregation, which always differs depending where you are.
I'd like to take a class on sermon writing to see how it is taught, but there are a few things I have learned that will definitely influence my eventual sermons. A sermon should be succinct. There should be a clear point to the sermon and it should be delivered in a logical format. An introduction with thesis statement, followed my a number of points to support the thesis statement, and a conclusion to wrap it all up. The listener shouldn't be left at the end of the sermon wondering what the point of all that talking was. They shouldn't have to spend the entire 15-45+ minutes struggling to figure out how everything ties together. The congregation is comprised of people of all levels of faith. Some need to be spoon-fed the point, while others want to be left with something to chew on, so a good sermon needs to address these various levels.
Growing up in the Alliance church, sermons generally followed the same format; the 3-point sermon. There would be an introduction usually involving the reading of the passage that was going to be spoken on, 3 points to discuss said passage, and a conclusion. Sometimes they were a little rigid, and depending on the speaker they could be good or bad, but the format worked.
Some sermons are just a mess of incoherent rambling. They meader around touching on one thing and then another and still another, sometimes with an attempt to tie the 3 things together, but failing miserably. The listener struggles to follow the path, struggles to figure out the point of it all, and is often left either frustrated or lost by the end of it. I've spent countless sermons sitting and wondering what the fuck they were talking about, and when they were going to get to the point of it all. Not everyone is going to learn something from a sermon, half the congregation probably isn't even listening. but for those that want to be there, for those that want to learn, they should be left with something tangible. Not a faint nagging feeling of loss and hopelessness. Well, it's not that bad, but for those that care, there should be something of substance.
I find very short, and very long sermons tend to suffer from the meandering more than those that fit in the middle. I find 20-35 minutes to be an optimal length. There is enough time to cover what needs to be covered without being rushed or blathering on and on. It seems when they are really short (< 20 min), there isn't enough time to present a complete message (unless it was a really short one) and really long sermons (> 35 min) tend to get disjointed and lose their flow.
Now I've never given a sermon, so these are just my observations from an aspiring (overly critical?) wannabe pastor. I have no knowledge on how sermons are prepared and written, and how each individual goes about getting ready for theirs. I know what I want to be like someday, and I know that I'll be a shitty speaker for awhile until I get the hang of it. If my blog posts are any indication, my sermons are going to jump around, not follow any particular order and be laced with profanity. :)
Everyone preaches a little differently. There are the crazy fire and brimstone guys, the ones always looking for a laugh, those that take the Bible verses back to the greek and hebrew texts, those that preach a prosperity message and everyone in between. Some people walk back and forth across the stage, some stand at a pulpit, and others sit on a stool at the same level as the congregation. Some preach from memory, and some spend most of their time reading aloud their notes. Some have a very structured sermon with a beginning, middle, and end, while some just meander around. Everywhere I go, everyone I listen to, I learn something. I've learned what I like and don't like as well as what seems to work for the congregation, which always differs depending where you are.
I'd like to take a class on sermon writing to see how it is taught, but there are a few things I have learned that will definitely influence my eventual sermons. A sermon should be succinct. There should be a clear point to the sermon and it should be delivered in a logical format. An introduction with thesis statement, followed my a number of points to support the thesis statement, and a conclusion to wrap it all up. The listener shouldn't be left at the end of the sermon wondering what the point of all that talking was. They shouldn't have to spend the entire 15-45+ minutes struggling to figure out how everything ties together. The congregation is comprised of people of all levels of faith. Some need to be spoon-fed the point, while others want to be left with something to chew on, so a good sermon needs to address these various levels.
Growing up in the Alliance church, sermons generally followed the same format; the 3-point sermon. There would be an introduction usually involving the reading of the passage that was going to be spoken on, 3 points to discuss said passage, and a conclusion. Sometimes they were a little rigid, and depending on the speaker they could be good or bad, but the format worked.
Some sermons are just a mess of incoherent rambling. They meader around touching on one thing and then another and still another, sometimes with an attempt to tie the 3 things together, but failing miserably. The listener struggles to follow the path, struggles to figure out the point of it all, and is often left either frustrated or lost by the end of it. I've spent countless sermons sitting and wondering what the fuck they were talking about, and when they were going to get to the point of it all. Not everyone is going to learn something from a sermon, half the congregation probably isn't even listening. but for those that want to be there, for those that want to learn, they should be left with something tangible. Not a faint nagging feeling of loss and hopelessness. Well, it's not that bad, but for those that care, there should be something of substance.
I find very short, and very long sermons tend to suffer from the meandering more than those that fit in the middle. I find 20-35 minutes to be an optimal length. There is enough time to cover what needs to be covered without being rushed or blathering on and on. It seems when they are really short (< 20 min), there isn't enough time to present a complete message (unless it was a really short one) and really long sermons (> 35 min) tend to get disjointed and lose their flow.
Now I've never given a sermon, so these are just my observations from an aspiring (overly critical?) wannabe pastor. I have no knowledge on how sermons are prepared and written, and how each individual goes about getting ready for theirs. I know what I want to be like someday, and I know that I'll be a shitty speaker for awhile until I get the hang of it. If my blog posts are any indication, my sermons are going to jump around, not follow any particular order and be laced with profanity. :)
Aging Parents
Every year we get a little older. Every day we get a little older. Time doesn't stop, and we are continually getting older. Some look forward to it. Some dread it. For some it is a step closer to death. For others it is a step closer to something new and exciting. For the most part, our thoughts of the future concern ourselves.
Do you ever stop and think that as you age, so to do your parents? And they have a good couple of decades on you. Does it scare you to think that they are getting to that age (or have reached it) where illness becomes more prevalent? Where death seems a little more of a reality?
Now my parents are only in their early 50's, but it still scares me sometimes that they will eventually die.
Do you ever stop and think that as you age, so to do your parents? And they have a good couple of decades on you. Does it scare you to think that they are getting to that age (or have reached it) where illness becomes more prevalent? Where death seems a little more of a reality?
Now my parents are only in their early 50's, but it still scares me sometimes that they will eventually die.
3 months and counting
I've been WoW free for 3 months. I still get little image flashbacks in my head, and occasionally I still daydream about playing, but for the most part, I'm doin okay. It's worse when I start dreaming about Everquest 2, but that is happening less and less frequently.
Hi, my name is Chris and I am an addict. But I have it under control.
Hi, my name is Chris and I am an addict. But I have it under control.
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