Life As I Know it

A Tribute to Our Grandma

2012-01-08T21:49:00.001-06:00

On Friday was the memorial service for my grandma, Catherine Margaret Friesen. My brother and I were asked to write a tribute for her. I thought I might post it here, in case you weren't there and wondered what we said... or, if you'd just like to read about one of the most influential women in my life.

The first section I read, and the second (after the *****) was read by my brother. I've even included some pictures, so you can experience what the audience saw.

Writing this tribute has been difficult; how do we summarise how deeply Grandma influenced our lives? Every attempt seemed insufficient because nothing really felt like it was really complete.

Grandma’s influence in our lives shaped us into the men we are today. Most importantly, she prayed for us daily, and then prayed for our wives, and then our children. She set an example of personal devotion to Christ that has inspired and encouraged. She was a constant fixture in Bible studies and discussions; she faithfully attended church, even when doing so meant facing public transit in the middle of winter; she took every opportunity to share the Gospel with people she met, and; she served a number of ministries gladly and humbly.

It wasn’t just us she shaped with her service. Our friends knew her as “Grandma,” and were often welcomed into her house in Calgary with only a phone call from us to ask. She ministered to strangers with an open heart, friends without a second’s hesitation, and her family with sacrificial love.

Grandma loved her grandchildren deeply. It was apparent to everyone who knew her just how much she loved all four of us. I think that there are more pictures of her grandkids than of anything else in her apartment, and she was always proud of us. No matter what we were doing, she was interested in hearing about it. She was quick with encouragement, always first to give a hug, and she was always genuinely happy to spend time with us.

We used to spend summers at her house in Calgary. It was there that we learned early on that with Grandma you had to try to keep up. She was going to walk wherever she was going, and that could be a tough task for our formerly little legs. We’d climb Nose Hill, walk to the grocery store, hike through Drumheller, and all the while Grandma was setting the pace. She never left us behind, though. She once did a fundraising walk of some length, and didn’t need to train for it; she still left far younger people in her dust.

Grandma was a baker. Her shortbread cookies - “fork cookies” as they came to be known - were an annual treat in our house, and her “Grandma pies” were gone as soon as they were baked. For a woman who couldn’t eat any of those treats, she couldn’t be stopped from making them.
I loved my Grandmother’s sense of humour. She was one of those people who was unintentionally funny. And she was usually game for anything her grandchildren suggested. Whether it was riding a scooter or playing floor hockey when she was 80, going to see a Bombers game when she was 85 (and sitting on the hard metal benches!), or taking a picture like this one while on a family trip to Florida, Grandma had a tough time saying no when her grandkids were asking.

Grandma also welcomed into her life two granddaughters-in-law, and loved them deeply. She was so proud of the women who married us, and was never hesitant to hug and love these women, and prayed for them daily. She was overjoyed to meet two of her great-grandchildren, and covered their lives with prayer as well.

*****

Chris already mentioned how difficult it is to give a brief tribute to someone like our Grandma, who lived a long and rich life. As I was thinking about it, I realized that it is sometimes the little memories that give colour and shape to our memories of people we love.

You already heard about fork cookies and pies. To carry on the food theme, there were a few special things that we only ever got when we visited Grandma and Grandpa’s. Chris got boxes of Frosted Flakes, which I don’t recall ever seeing at our house. I got poached eggs and toast. And we both got fresh raspberries off of Grandma’s raspberry bushes in her backyard. (Grandma also learned the hard way that our dog loved raspberries off her bushes as well, but only once she had picked them and put them in a bowl, unfortunately at ground level)

Anyone who knew my Grandma well also knew that she loved sports, and that included pretty much every sport. Sitting with Grandma and watching sports at her house in Calgary is another one of those little memories that stays with me. I will never understand her love for baseball, but I do know that she had a better grasp on how any sport should be played than most of the professionals.

And I can’t touch on little memories of Grandma without talking about her knitting. When I was young, I remember the sweaters. I don’t think I appreciated them at the time, but later in life I learned the value of well-knit wool mittens. I think Grandma could fire off pairs of mittens at record speed…

But it is the big things that really define for me who my Grandma is. As Chris mentioned, she was always glad to visit with us and hear about what was happening in our lives. Whether it was filling her in on what I was learning in school, or how my job was going, or having a discussion on politics and culture, I never had any doubt about whether Grandma was interested. I have never bought in to the stereotyping of “older people” as closed-minded or out-of-date because of those conversations with Grandma.

And she never missed a birthday, an anniversary or any other event in our lives. Without fail, I knew I would receive a card from Grandma and that it was sent with love. As you know, she passed away on December 31, which was my birthday. She had written me a birthday card and it was a fitting thing to open while she was in the hospital. It will be the last one I ever receive from her… but only because God himself intervened.

Which brings me to the last, and most important, big thing. It is where Chris started, and it is the only appropriate place to end. Put simply: My Grandma loved Jesus and it showed in her life. As I grew older and more mature, I began to realize the depth of her faith and knowledge of scripture. Grandma faced challenges in her life, including health problems, but I never once picked up a hint of resentment or bitterness because of those.

And, as Chris said, we always knew that Grandma was praying. For us, for people around the world. Her praying wasn’t as visible as a card, or a word of encouragement or a hug, but it undoubtedly had the biggest impact.

Grandma lived for 90 years and touched people’s lives for all of them. But her impact will continue because of the godly legacy she is leaving. Chris and I are part of that legacy, and we are witness to it. Our children are part of her legacy and we are blessed that they both had the chance to meet their great-Grandma.

We will miss her very much. But we know she loved Jesus and, because of that, we will see her again.

Kay

2011-12-31T22:18:00.001-06:00

My Grandma died this morning, at 4:00. She'd suffered a massive stroke on the evening of the 23rd, and the damage was too severe. She was responsive at first, and I am thankful to God that I had that opportunity to see her, and have her squeeze my hand and smile a half-paralysed smile at me. I believe she knew me.

As the days went by, she responded less, until the last time I saw her and she simply breathed. She didn't respond to sounds or sights; she simply inhaled and exhaled.

I'm reminded of this verse from the Phil Keaggy song, "Quite Suddenly:"

Quite suddenly, it may be as I lie in dreamless sleep,

God's gift to many a sorrowing heart,

with no more tears to weep,

That a call shall break my slumber

and a voice sound in my ear:

"Rise up, my love, and come away,

For behold the Bridegroom's here."

I'm sure I'll have more to write about this amazing woman and her even more amazing God... But I wanted to at least mark the occasion here.

Promises, Promises

2011-12-07T13:26:00.001-06:00

I don't like making promises. Sometimes my wife will ask me to promise something (usually that I'll do something I've been putting off for too long), but I won't promise it. There's something about the idea of a promise that is far weightier than our society has allowed it to become. See: gone are the days when someone's word is his bond. Instead, promises are made and broken so often that they've lost all meaning; we expect that a promise will be broken. I don't like making promises because I can't bear the idea that I won't be able to keep it.

I made a vow to my wife, to God, and to my friends/family that I will love, honour, and cherish Laurel above all else, until death parts us. I made that promise because I can keep it. I have control over myself to the point where I will choose to love her, choose to honour her, and choose to cherish her until I am shuffled off this mortal coil. No one can prevent me, not even her.

That's the thing about the promises we make: so many times we promise something that we cannot guarantee. Forget the times when we lie or make a promise in bad faith - can you guarantee that you'll be alive tomorrow to repay that loan? What if you get hit by a car, or suffer an aneurism? - your promise will go unfulfilled. Jesus warns about making oaths in Matthew 5:33-37, and I love what He says about our power to fulfill them: "And do not swear by your head, for you cannot make even one hair white or black." Just give a simple yes or a no, and let that be all you offer.

Christmas makes me think about promises. Specifically, I think about the promises God made to Mary, Joseph, Abraham, David, and all of us: The Messiah would be born to the world, be rejected by His people, and be the sacrifice for the sins of all humanity so that we could finally be forgiven and be acceptable to God. There are more, of course, but that about sums it up, I think. Think about this for a second: God made promises to a group of people who span all of history that must have seemed like madness (eg: a virgin would conceive and give birth, he would be born in Bethlehem, his garments would be divided by casting lot, he would be despised and rejected by men, by his wounds we would be healed)... I don't know if I could have taken them seriously.

But this is the difference between me and God: He can and does always keep His promises. Every single one. There is no other being who can make the claim that everything He says, He will do. Go ahead and check it out:
Abraham's descendants will number like the stars (Genesis 15:5)? - Kept
Virgin has a son (Isaiah 7:14) - Kept (Luke 1:26-38)
This son will be despised by men and suffer (Isaiah 53:3-4) - Kept (Matthew 27)
People will jeer, "He trusted in God, let God save him" (Psalm 22:8) - Kept (Matthew 27:43)
This suffering is for us, and will bring us peace with God (Isaiah 53:5) - Kept (Romans 5:6-11)

Of course, there are more promises made and kept, but see how perfectly these things came about? Who else can keep a promise that involves so many other people?

All of this brings me to two vitally important promises:
1) The manger without the Cross is an empty promise, and without the empty tomb, a broken promise. Everything in history builds toward Christ's death on the cross. Every prophecy, every promise, every birth and death drags us to the foot of the cross and the mouth of the empty tomb. Without the cross, there is no forgiveness of sins because the perfect sacrifice was never made. Without the empty tomb, death has not been defeated and we still grieve like those who have no hope. The cross and empty tomb is the focus point of all history. Everything builds toward it, and since that moment, nothing has remained the same.

2) "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just, and will forgive us from all unrighteousness" (1 John 1:9). See: Without Christ's forgiveness, we are doomed, damned, and hopeless. Our lives provide fleeting pleasure, only to be swallowed up in the despair of an eternal Hell. We will run ourselves ragged trying to do enough good things to assuage our guilt, and fail miserably. We will live as self-absorbed hedonists who do whatever seems good in our own eyes. But God's grace is extended in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. He chose to make us His children while we have been His enemies. All it takes is our acceptance of His terms - unconditional surrender.

But that's the beauty of the promise. Our surrender means life. It is the only thing that means life for us. Everything else - all other faiths, religions, practices, values - all lead to death.

Believe in Christ and you will be saved. That a promise.

Open Letter to Pat Martin

2011-11-17T09:14:00.001-06:00

Dear Mr. Martin,

You are my Member of Parliament, elected by the people in my neighbourhood to represent us in the House of Commons. You've been doing this awhile (I am under the belief that the NDP could run a bowl of oatmeal and win in my riding, but that's another topic), and have earned yourself a reputation for being disrespectful, rude, crass, and provocative.

This May, however, you said you were turning over a new leaf. You said you were going to choose civility, and even had badges made up in an effort to get people to join the civility movement (http://bit.ly/l1h3sI). You've managed to go a whole 6 months without forgetting this resolution.

Mr. Martin, you behaved terribly on twitter last night. Upset about the budget, you resorted to obscene language and name-calling. What's more, in a response to someone who challenged you, you chose to use obscene language at him/her directly. Sir, do you realise that you report to the public? Do you know that, in effect, we are your boss? If you were a private entity (which you are not), you would lose your job with cause. You know that, right?

And you know that your life is not your own, don't you? You know that, because you represent me, you are my voice and my face in the House of Commons, and in the world? You realise that the world is connected electronically, and this deplorable outburst has sullied my good name as a Canadian, and a constituent of Winnipeg South?

I do not appreciate this black mark, Mr. Martin. I also do not appreciate that you do not even have the conscience or sense of shame to apologise (http://bit.ly/v6q47v), instead choosing to say like a teenager, "They made me mad." You are a Member of Parliament, Mr. Martin. You are supposed to set the example. You are supposed to be a role model, demonstrating that a parliament handles issues with logic, reason, and the public will; not the name-calling and obscenities of an elementary schoolyard.

So, as a man who is literally represented by you, I ask you to sincerely apologise. I ask you to pause for a minute before you expose yourself online and ask this simple question, "Will what I say be good for my constituents?" If you cannot answer conclusively that it will be, the wiser course of action is to say nothing at all.

I hope you will reform your actions before the next election. I will remember this, and will ensure the rest of my neighbourhood does, too. We would not accept this behaviour from our children, we should not be expected to accept it from our MP.

Sincerely,

Chris Harwood

Demands of Occupy Vancouver

2011-11-09T09:23:00.004-06:00

"Occupy Vancouver" (OV) has released their demands. The link to the PDF is here. I've read this a few times over, and noticed the following:

#3 - They want banks and white-collar criminals punished more rigorously, but also want non-violent criminals released from prison (#40).
#15 - Canada withdraws from NATO and remain sovereign (#18) but also that the majority of defense budget be spent on housing, education, and health (#27). How do they suppose Canada will remain sovereign with no military? - warm wishes and rainbows?
#23 - No gag orders on public servants. What if that public servant disagrees with them in relation to #22?
#22 - Removal of an elected official.
#21 - What if the science points to the position held by the current Science Minister (#22)?
#9 seems to do away with the Canadian Wheat Board, but #7 certainly does.
#26 - So... by adding a second lawyer to your case, they hope to increase the number of lawyers available? What math allows for this impossibility? Can I spend money and have more at the same time?
#31 presumes there's a doctor out there who would be ethically able to prescribe these drugs, knowing they're so addictive.
#41 - I'm glad someone is standing up for the "collages" that are so ruthlessly oppressed... Next we liberate the papier machee!
#43 (banning GMOs) means no #52, #35, #32 and #51. Marijuana might be the most genetically modified plant on earth.
#41 - they want to "free" universities from corporate sponsorship, but also want free tuition.
#13 seeks to dictate what I can and cannot give my own money to. Typical liberal dictatorship, I guess.
#24 - Grammar nightmare aside, are they really opening this debate up 10 years later? They don't think that in all that time even better "false flag" evidence could have been cooked up?
#16 - CBC is already dominated by "powerful groups;" they're called the liberal media elites. By allowing them to have whatever money they want, we'd be basically shovelling money into a black hole. All their demands of accountability for funding seem to stop when it's the CBC.
#15 doesn't take into consideration the vacuum of power that immediately withdrawing from Afghanistan would cause. There are still evil people with guns who aren't happy about being ousted, who would make things far worse if they could. Without leaving a stable, democratic government to maintain freedoms, they'd be back in the qu'ranic dark ages before week's end.
#32 - all botanical drugs must be distributed like coffee beans?? What does that even mean? I'd like hot wings distributed like mail!
#33 seems to describe a situation for which I have no context. Is there a group of people being criminalised in Canada? Seems like only criminals get criminalised..... What are they trying to protect us from?
#14 - They want Swiss-style direct democracy, and Nunavut-style consensus building.... Okay... so there are about 7 million people in Switzerland and 29,000 people in Nunavut. What sort of legislation do they think people will be spending their lives voting for, then? Does this make even a little sense? Oh! And what if NO ONE wants any of their demands? Then what? What if everyone else disagrees with these demands and votes them all down?
#50 wants and end to the Tar Sands development. I presume they're okay with us buying oil from countries in which women are ruthlessly denied simple and basic human rights....
#42 answers the question of how we'll have power if we can't use nuclear or fossil fuels. But how will they overcome the difference between amounts of energy these new types can produce and our current (and presumably only growing) demand?

I'm going to cut if off there. I really could spend all day on this.

My biggest question is this: What if they don't have these demands met? Will they just continue to live outside like hobos? If I am going to make a demand of someone, don't I need some sort of leverage/threat to help motivate that person to acquiesce?

This group is terrible. They're a collection of idiots who believe that anyone actually cares what they have to say. The end.

Everything You Need to Know

2011-11-02T07:05:00.000-06:00

I love this video. It's exactly what I wanted to do sometime for a sermon. Nothing except Scripture, pieced together, and beautifully done in this video.

Where I Occupy

2011-10-26T22:58:00.001-06:00

Recently, a friend "unfriended" me on Facebook. It was in response to what he said is my "constant trolling" on his Facebook page regarding politics, specifically regarding the "Occupy" movement, in which he recently became quite involved. I wasn't interacting, just being snide, he said.

I realised that perhaps he had a point; perhaps I haven't articulated my position on the whole matter. Allow me to rectify this, in point form.

1) The "Occupy" group claims to be the "99%" as they claim to be opposed to the fact that 1% of the population controls so much of the wealth in the USA. Sure, I get that. Here's the thing: being one of the 99% in the USA still puts you into the - what? - 10% of the world's population in terms of wealth? If you're standing out there, living in a tent like a hobo, claiming that you've been wronged because you don't have enough money to pay your student debt, you need to realise that to the majority of the world you're complaining that your wallet is too small for your fifties, your Ferrari won't fit in your new garage, and your diamond shoes are too tight. There is no way that you can have this fact in mind without appearing like a whiny child.

2) 1% of the population pays approximately 40% of the tax in the USA, and the corporate tax rate is near 35% - the highest in the world. Yes, there are loopholes that exist that allow the richest to escape paying even more, but that doesn't seem to be the point of the protests. A more fair solution, perhaps, would be to increase the sales tax, thus "punishing" the evil people who consume more than their fair share. No one's making that claim.

3) So many people I've seen in the "Occupy" movement seem to have a ridiculous sense of entitlement. Change that aspect of society, and you'll never have to have another one of these protests. So we're clear: the government owes you nothing except law and order. If you wanted that education, and you agreed to take out a student loan, that's no fault of anyone else. Either don't take out the loan, or expect to pay it back yourself.

4) Listen, live within your means. I went to school and attained a Master's degree. I took out $9000 in student loans, and worked like a dog. I went to school, worked 35 hours/week, and then worked 50+ hours over the summers. If I can do it, anyone can; I mean it. And why do so many of these protestors seem to have no job? There are jobs out there, you just have to go get them. If a job pays your bills, then there is honour in it; beggars cannot be choosy. If working 80 hours at Burger King was the only way I could put a roof over my family's heads, I would do it. I would have to.

5) The "Occupy" Movement seems to have started out as a protest against the huge payouts given to banks and big corporations by the American government. What's interesting is that I'd wager the majority of people involved voted for Obama, and will vote for him again. Remind me: who was it that gave all that money to those corporations? A conservative would say: Listen, if you can't make a profit, don't come to the government for money. Make the changes you need to.

6) The "Occupy" movement seems to have been co-opted by the anti-capitalism crowd. I find no Scriptural basis to support socialism or capitalism.

7) Scripture allows Christians to break the law in only a pair of specific circumstances. If the law requires that I do something God prohibits, I must break the law; if the law prohibits me from doing something God requires, I must break the law. Trespassing is not covered by this; vandalism is not covered by this; refusal to pay taxes is not covered by this. A Christian who believes the Bible is true is not permitted to break the law. Don't believe me? 1 Peter 2:13-17; Romans 13:1-7; Matthew 22:17-21; Titus 3:1. And this is my make-or-break for any "movement;" what does the Bible say about it?

There. Discuss.

No words

2011-10-14T09:25:00.002-06:00

Listening to this man's story, I'm reminded:And what more shall I say? I do not have time to tell about Gideon, Barak, Samson and Jephthah, about David and Samuel and the prophets, who through faith conquered kingdoms, administered justice, and gained what was promised; who shut the mouths of lions, quenched the fury of the flames, and escaped the edge of the sword; whose weakness was turned to strength; and who became powerful in battle and routed foreign armies. Women received back their dead, raised to life again. There were others who were tortured, refusing to be released so that they might gain an even better resurrection. Some faced jeers and flogging, and even chains and imprisonment. They were put to death by stoning; they were sawed in two; they were killed by the sword. They went about in sheepskins and goatskins, destitute, persecuted and mistreated— the world was not worthy of them. They wandered in deserts and mountains, living in caves and in holes in the ground. These were all commended for their faith, yet none of them received what had been promised, since God had planned something better for us so that only together with us would they be made perfect. Hebrews 11:32-40

G.O.S.P.E.L.

2011-09-14T08:06:00.002-06:00

G.O.S.P.E.L. from Humble Beast Records on Vimeo.
There is nothing that I don't like about this video. From the editing and effects to the words and message (the most important part!), this is awesome.H-t to Frank Turk at the Pyros for posting it up there.

Have you considered?

2011-08-29T10:20:00.001-06:00

We won't buy "conflict diamonds" because the people who mine it are slaves, but we're quick to buy oil from countries in which women are essentially property?

Discuss.

Jack Layton

2011-08-28T00:01:00.000-06:00

Jack Layton was the leader of the federal New Democratic Party (NDP), the left-wing party in Canada. He was charismatic and passionate, and he had a very loyal following. He led the NDP to its best performance in any federal election, and it appears he was rightfully proud of that accomplishment. Jack Layton recently died, and it's been all the newspapers seem to be able to talk about, and all anyone can do to come up with bigger ways to honour the man. Seriously, they lit up the CN Tower orange (the NDP's colour), and then did the same to Niagara freaking Falls.

Despite the title, this post is not actually about Jack Layton. It is, however, related to him. You see, judging by the way his followers have reacted to his death, you'd think the light of hope and salvation has gone out, replaced by death and destruction.... or that his death signalled the end of civilisation, and the beginning of a new Dark Ages.

This post is not about Jack Layton. Instead, it's about those followers...

Psalm 146:3-10.
Do not put your trust in princes,
in human beings, who cannot save.
When their spirit departs, they return to the ground;
on that very day their plans come to nothing.
Blessed are those whose help is the God of Jacob,
whose hope is in the LORD their God.
He is the Maker of heaven and earth,
the sea, and everything in them
- he remains faithful forever.
He upholds the cause of the oppressed
and gives food to the hungry.
The LORD sets prisoners free,
the LORD gives sight to the blind,
the LORD lifts up those who are bowed down,
the LORD loves the righteous.
The LORD watches over the foreigner
and sustains the fatherless and the widow,
but he frustrates the ways of the wicked.
The LORD reigns forever, your God, O Zion, for all generations.

Jack Layton died. That means that Jack Layton can do nothing more for you, nor for anyone else. If you have put your hope in him or in any other mere prince, then you have placed your hope in someone that is bound to fail you, and it doesn't matter what your political stripe happens to be.

See: no politician can match God when it comes to care for the disenfranchised, discouraged, or disowned, nor for the abandoned, alone, or hungry. Understand that there is no politician - no prince, Prime Minister, President, Supersaint - who can always uphold the righteous, sustain the orphan, frustrate the wicked, or give food to the hungry.

So rather than seek ways to lift up a mere man for all to see as though he were a paragon of virtue, and peerless in his efforts, turn your own eyes to the Maker of heaven and earth, the sea, and everything in them, who remains forever faithful. Turn your eyes to the God of Jacob; turn your eyes to the Christ, who is God Incarnate. Everyone and everything else can fail, but He will remain faithful and true.

I don't know the state of Jack Layton's soul, and as he is dead, it's not my business. God will work that out with him, and it will be a perfect, just, and holy decision. What's more important is the state of yours. Where do you stand? If you were face to face with God - who is perfect, knows all things, and has standards none of us can reach on our own - and were asked simply, "Why should I let you into my kingdom," what would you say? What could you say?

If Jesus Christ is not lord of your life, then your hope is in a mere man or woman; you, or another person. If you have never been confronted by the sheer weight and stain of your sin in light of how perfect God sees you - and fallen to your knees in conviction proclaiming that Christ's death and resurrection is your only means of being reconciled to Him, and asked for His forgiveness for falling so far from the mark - then you are utterly without hope. Hell is the only thing you will experience once you die, and this is your best life now.

So, before you turn your computer off, seek God while He may be found. He desires that you are forgiven and are reconciled to Him. This is a fine page for you to read; don't be distracted by the colours or design of the thing, just read.

Do not trust in princes, in mere men in whom there is no salvation. No matter his or her political stripe.

Wheel of Time - an Overview

2011-08-15T07:56:00.000-06:00

I’m a huge fan of this massive series. I started reading it in high school, and have tried to read the entire series every time a new book was released; this means I’ve read the series about 10 or 11 times in my life.

On an aside, I don’t think I’ve read the Bible that many times, and it seems wrong to me that my reading priorities are that way.... Aside over.

I was on DJP’s blog and a reader there asked if there was a Christian perspective on the books. I searched and there really wasn’t anything as good as I’d recommend, so I’m going to try to do one myself.

Now, a few caveats:
1) This series is (so far) 13 giant books long. There is no way I could be comprehensive and exhaustive in this review. You’ll not find many quotes or page numbers. I’m going to generalise;
2) The cast and crew of this series is ridiculously huge, and the world is incredibly diverse. I would never be able to properly dissect each aspect of the world (affectionately referred to as “Randland” by the fans);
3) On a personal note, while I do try to be careful about the things to which I am exposed, I am a mature enough Christian that when characters wantonly sin, I am able to recognise that and not stumble in my own walk. This is not always true for others, so please use discernment in everything.

Alright, on to the meat.

Pros:
The Wheel of Time is often compared to some combination of Lord of the Rings, and Narnia. The world created is huge, the characters are diverse and show incredible growth over the course of the books. If you want to get lost in a series, this is an excellent one. There are a dozen cultures, and they’re each fleshed out with traditions, manners of speech, fashion, and values. There are a wide array of fantastic creatures - the Trollocs, Myrdraal, Ogier, Wolfbrothers, for example - but the best characters are the ordinary ones who find themselves in extraordinary situations, and rise to the challenge. Robert Jordan’s worldbuilding is simply second to none.

The plot is immersive to the point of keeping me up until 4am because I just couldn’t put the book down. His sense of pacing is frustratingly good, making me unable to stop reading.

There is a definite understanding of right and wrong. There is good, and there is evil. In the end (Jordan admitted), good wins, because that’s how things should be. Compare that with the way the Bible records the end of evil, and there’s agreement there.

Lascivity (what there is of it) is discreet, with many a “fade to black” sort of situation. This is sadly not the norm in many fantasy books. It is also not generally acceptable behaviour in Randland.

There is no profanity as we recognise it. Jordan crafted his own (“Blood and ashes!” for example), and people generally don’t approve of that sort of talk.

Cons:
Jordan incorporated a number of taoist principles in Randland’s understanding of right and wrong. There is a concept of yin and yang, as well as reincarnation of souls into new bodies. The Wheel of Time itself is a concept that old things pass, new things come, but at some point the old things come back in some form. This isn’t Biblical.

One of the cultures has polygamy as its practice. It’s neither condemned nor suggested by the author. There is a hint of something happening with the main character and three women, but there’s nothing solid about how that sort of thing will actually look.

Violence is a large part of the series. This is a war, ultimately, between good and evil. While not overly graphic, it is more obvious than not.

“Magic” is wielded by men and women, and (except in very rare circumstances) has the same source, no matter whether the person is using it for good or evil. It’s rather more like using the Force in Star Wars than incantations. You’ll note that I don’t care that there is a magic sort of system, but that the source is the same.

There’s this weird euphemism that many people suspect refers to lesbianism in an all-female school; it’s really just hinted at with an innocuous slang term, but it’s left so vague that I think it’d be hard to make a case that this is something the author even really cares about (ie: many writers throw in their favourite causes to show how “normal” they are, and I don’t get that impression from Jordan). No mention of male homosexuality that I can recall. Additionally, while “sex scenes” are “fade to black,” many characters engage in sex outside of marriage, with the decision to do so more strongly motivated by feelings. This is contrary to the Biblical standard to which Christians are called. Still, it’s not the point of the books, either.

Overall:
I love these books. If you’re a fan of fantasy, I can’t imagine that you wouldn’t either. The way that mythologies are woven into Randland is seamless, but definitely present for the discerning reader (Jordan's included a lot of Norse and Arthurian myths).
There are books that are drier than the others - one of them spends a lot of time talking about the fields the characters are in, and I was puzzled and annoyed by that - but overall, it’s excellent. Just, make sure you know that this isn’t a sprint; the series will reach 14 books by the time it’s done. So, settle in, and enjoy!

Explanation

2011-07-17T23:34:00.000-06:00

Reader Kyrie asked for clarification of my last post, and I thought that was a fair request.

We do a good and right thing to teach children that they are unique and valuable. Scripture teaches us that each person is known by God from before his or her first breath (Psalm 139:13-18), and we're all idiots if we don't take that to heart. Made in God's own image (Genesis 1:27), people are set apart from every other created thing. Not only that, but we are desperately loved by God, so much so that He paid an unimaginable price so that we could be in a relationship with Him instead of suffering eternal separation (John 3:16, Romans 6:23).

We do children a disservice, I think, when we teach them that they are special. See: if I am special, I deserve to be treated as such, right? My demands should be met, no matter the inconvenience to others because I'm special. I'm the most important person, after all, so any inconvenience to me is intolerable.

Now, once we've taught a society of children this same message, can you see the road we're on? There's a diminished sense of personal accountability, one of the consequences of which is massive consumer debt (sound familiar?). There's the increased sense of entitlement, one of the consequences of which is... you guessed it - consumer debt.

When we teach someone they're special, and then reinforce that notion by our actions, we set them up for failure on a personal level. And when we do it on a societal scale, we set that society up for failure.

So, that's my explanation. Thoughts?

Society and Children

2011-07-08T11:39:00.000-06:00

Society has made a grievous error in teaching children that they're special. Each one is unique and important, but not special. Teaching that - and them believing us - leads to the sort of ridiculous senses of entitlement that is causing the downfall of society.

Wasting Light - A Review

2011-06-29T23:54:00.000-06:00

I've been a Foo Fighters fan for a long time, now. I remember not liking Nirvana, and so I was skeptical when I first put their tape into my car's stereo. That was a long time ago, and I can honestly say that I still rank these guys among my favourite bands; in fact, they're one of only a couple of bands that I "like" on Facebook. On an unrelated note, I dislike that I "like" things on Facebook, and have since quit doing it.

The Good
Wasting Light took a little time to grow on me as an album. I mean, I was immediately drawn to some of the highlights of this album, but since I don't listen to the radio any more, I still can't tell you if any of them are radio releases. I'd say my favourite songs are "Rosemary," "Arlandria," and "Miss the Misery," because I really like the chord progressions. They're just great rock songs, but very smartly written; unexpected minors and the rest.

The Bad
For all the nifty chord changes, there are some really inexplicable... one-note solos? I don't even know what to call these things. The disc opens with something I could only describe as jarring as the intro to "Bridge Burning," and there's another one in an already stupid-sounding bridge in "Arlandria." The latter is especially unfortunate since I love the song otherwise. So, I don't know what's up with that, but I don't like it.
"White Limo" seems to be the token "Dave Grohl needs to scream" song. Not a fan.

Overall
I liked this disc. Like I said, it took a little bit to grow on me. Even though there are a few "bads" in this review, none of them are bad enough to keep me from recommending this one. Of course, that does assume you like this genre in the first place....

Poor Little Guy!

2011-06-17T13:29:00.002-06:00

My wife is pregnant, and we’re expecting our first child this October.

I’m terrified. I have little confidence in my ability to be a good father. I had a great example in my own, but I constantly wonder how much I learned from watching him? How badly am I going to screw this kid up?

Seriously... terrified.

I’m also excited. I still cannot believe I’m going to be a dad. I’ve seen the ultrasound pictures, and I got to watch my child move in real-time! I can see his face and hands, I can watch her suck her thumb, I watched the kid yawn! I was able to see her heart beating. I cannot describe what I saw in words that accurately describe how I felt. This person is alive and growing, and it’s my flesh and my blood.

I’m humbled. I recall Psalm 139:13-16, and I know that this child is not mine alone; but he is known by God, even now. Her every day is ordained by the Almighty creator of the universe, and right now she doesn’t even know she has feet! I am humbled that God would entrust this precious child to my fumbling, bumbling, too-scared, ignorant care; it’s like leaving your prized mansion in the hands of a barrel of chimpanzees.

And yet, if God - who knows more than I do, and all of it more intimately and completely than I could know even my own name; who has ordained the plan that most glorifies Himself; who notes when each sparrow falls to earth; who loves me with a love I cannot fully comprehend, do not even remotely deserve, and can never repay - has decided that I become a dad... well, who am I to argue?

So, I’m going into this with terror and insecurity in my own abilities, but complete and utter faith in God giving me all that I need. My wife is an amazing woman who has long dreamed of being a mom; it is my proud pleasure of seeing her “become” one, and my good fortune to have been partnered with such a woman.

Pray for us. All three of us. Pray for me. I’m a poor excuse for a man, honestly, when left to my own devices, and so I hope that I’ll learn to rely on the grace, wisdom, and strength of God.

I’m going to have a kid... Who would have thought.

Welcome!

2011-06-05T23:17:00.001-06:00

It's come to my attention that people from one of my "worlds" (that is, each of us has a work world, a personal world, a sport world, etc) has found this blog. I suppose it could be easily done - just "google" my name (I don't like using proper nouns as verbs...) and I pop up near the top of the list.

This, by the way, surprised me because I understand that there is a heart surgeon in Australia with my same name, and I would have thought he'd get higher billing than my silly blog.

In any event, no matter who you are or how you found this little corner of the "intrawebs," welcome. I really am glad you're here, and I hope you'll take an opportunity to interact with things I write. Maybe you won't, but please know you're invited to do so.

I'd like to find a pithy, smooth way to transition into what I want to say next, but nothing's coming to me. So, changing gears without a clutch (as it were)....

I'm going to imagine that this is the last thing that you'll ever read here. Maybe our paths will cross in "real life," but I doubt our conversation will be like this; real life conversations are bound up in all kinds of "rules." Since this is the last thing you're ever going to read here, I want to make sure it counts.

Everything in the Bible is true. God exists, Jesus is God, His death on the cross pays the price that you owed because of your sinful nature. Through your faith in that grace, you can be saved. There is no other way to attain this salvation, because He said so. Yes, this seems unfair, but if God is holy, "fair" would mean no salvation of any kind.

Think about it: have you ever done something - thought something - that you knew was wrong?

If yes, that sole act condemns you.
If you say you don't believe in absolute morality, then you and I are going to have quite a conversation (here, anyway), at a later date, about how absurd that is, and how you couldn't possibly mean that.

So, with that one act, you have condemned yourself (Romans 6:26; Romans 3:23). But, don't despair! God, by His grace, did what you couldn't; satisfied those wages, and provided you with the gift of life. Free, but not cheap. Simple, but not easy

See: it requires you to give up your own desires, and follow Jesus Christ, and Him alone. Right now, without Him, you are a slave to sin - slavery leading to death. In Christ, you are a slave, but a slave to righteousness - slavery leading to life.

And I mean it when I say it's by Christ alone. No one else. Nothing else. No talisman, no Mary, no Allah, no Buddha, no karma, no intellect, no good works. Don't believe me? Just hold your mouse over: Acts 4:11-12; John 14:6-7 and read for yourself.

Again: Jesus Christ is the only way by which you can be saved. Read Ephesians 2:8-9.

I could go on. I want you to realise that there is nothing more important than the Gospel of Christ, as it is the power of God for your salvation (Romans 1:16-17).

Does this offend you? Ask yourself why. Does this seem ludicrous? Ask yourself why. And if you can come up with no answers, feel free to ask me. I am no scholar; I am just desperate that this last thing you read here be the Gospel. It is the only thing that has eternal value; it is the only thing that points you to your purpose.

There's so much more I want to tell you about God. I don't have the time or learning to do it here today. But, what's amazing is that this one fact - Christ died so that you could be set free, and be reconciled to an almighty, perfectly holy, infinitely loving God - is all you need to know to get started. Like I said, it's so simple, but it's not easy; it requires you to be willing to give up everything - from a hobby to your life! - but the trade is so worth it (Matthew 13:44).

Now, of course I hope you'll come back. If not, I've said what I needed to say.

Welcome!

One Fact

2011-06-05T22:52:00.000-06:00

One of my top 3 pet peeves is this: When someone has an issue with me (personally, professionally, etc), and they don't come talk to me directly. I'm a big believer in practicing Matthew 18:15 wherever I can.

Here's why this bugs me: When someone skips this step of talking to me alone, and goes right to bringing someone else into the issue, I see that as disrespect. I don't take criticism personally in the sense that I'll be offended if Paul has a problem with me in some way; chances are excellent I haven't communicated clearly enough, and need to retry.

Election 2011

2011-05-04T22:41:00.001-06:00

Monday, 2 May 2011, Canadians went to the polls and cast their votes for the federal government. It was sort of a strange campaign, and very few people were really confident in their predictions.

Most, I think, were suggesting that the Conservatives would manage another minority government, with the Liberals returning as Official Opposition. I predicted that the Conservatives would either just barely achieve a majority (155 being the magic number) or they'd just barely miss it.

Wow, were we wrong. The Conservatives pulled out a huge victory, getting 169 of the 308 possible seats! That means they'll have a more stable gov't with which to affect change in this country, and we won't have to live under the threat of another election for 4 more years.

Me, I'm pumped. I voted Conservative because I believe in their economic policies, feel like they're the only party with a plan for the Armed Forces, and I think Stephen Harper has been a great Prime Minister. I even helped out a campaign, and that candidate won what some called an upset! So, I was so pumped to see the results roll in.

I could spend hours talking about this election and what it means. I probably will at some point. But I wanted to highlight something I observed by watching my Facebook feeds:
Left-wingers speak as though everyone agrees with them, even though the results tell a different story.

There's no more irritating clichee than the rabid liberal. It often seems like there's been no thought given; someone is conservative and therefore they (insert heartless behaviour and motive here). It's wearying.

You are not the majority any more. People seem to be tired of the elitist attitudes and the sense of entitlement. People seem to want responsible gov't that collects no more tax than is necessary. People don't want the gov't meddling in their lives as though they were children.

I'm pumped for this new gov't. I'm intrigued to see what happens with the political landscape in the coming weeks. It won't be boring, that's for sure.

So: are you happy with the results?

Public Sector Unions pt. 2

2011-04-30T21:35:00.000-06:00

Thinking about unions in general, but especially the ones who operate as our public's servants.

I've asked a question of union supporters in the past, and I haven't received a single reply. To say again: Not only have I not heard a good reply, but I haven't heard any reply.

My question is this: Should it be someone's right to not be fired, no matter their performance or the performance of their company?

Jesus and Elections

2011-04-30T21:29:00.000-06:00

As a Christian, I'm both amused and saddened whenever someone - Christian or otherwise - tries to suggest that Jesus would/would not vote for X or Y party.

It is ridiculous to presume that a person can look into the mind of the Creator and guess that He would even bother to vote in the first place. Throughout His earthly ministry, Jesus spoke only a little about the government (Matthew 22:15-22), and in letters by Paul and Peter, Christians are told to submit to the government unless it's a matter of obedience to God. While He could have overthrown the government with a wave of His hand using His divine powers, or by commanding his followers using His human influence, His kingdom was always intended to be something different than one of mere soldiers, taxes, buildings, or politics.

Christ came to this planet to make it possible for a sinner to be reconciled to God, by paying the price no human could pay (Matthew 1:21; Matthew 20:28; John 3:16). Nothing less than to die on the Cross for the forgiveness of mankind's sins, and then to rise from the dead in order to demonstrate that even Death cannot hold Him; and therefore cannot hold those who are found in Him.

Jesus certainly does care about who you vote for, though. We are called to demonstrate wisdom in making decisions, and we are called to stand firm and obey God. So, if you're looking at a candidate who is calling for unGodly, immoral decisions (abortion, gay marriage, for example), and you call yourself a Christian, you're going to be hard-pressed to reconcile voting for someone whose morality is so diametrically opposed to the morality of the One you would call King.

Public Sector Unions pt. 1

2011-04-22T09:07:00.000-06:00

Recent events have prompted me to try to put my thoughts on this issue onto my blog. I welcome/invite/entreat dialogue on this issue, but I won't let it devolve into name-calling and ad hominems. I'll simply delete your comment if you're not interested in actually engaging with the issues. With that...

I don't care about private sector unions. Not really, anyway. I may think they're unnecessary due to modern labour laws, but overall, I think it should be up to each company whether they work with unions, or refuse to. Price of doing business.

Unions in the public servants, however, are a different story. I don't see why they should be required, and it breaks down to one simple thing: money, and where it comes from.

Public servants are paid by tax money. Unions exist to try to get as much for their members as possible - salary, benefits, etc. That means that a union in this case is trying to get as many tax dollars to flow to its members as possible. Now, I pay my taxes at a certain percentage, and this is right off the top of my cheque.

But what if I don't get a raise one year? What if my company is struggling and to keep my job, I agree to postpone raises? Suddenly, my $50K doesn't go as far thanks to inflation, and increase in the cost of living. So, I have to start cutting from my budget; no cable, bike more, ground beef instead of chicken, etc.

One thing: I don't get to choose whether I pay the same amount of tax. And, since the union has guaranteed that it members will get a raise (even when I don't), that means a greater percentage of my income is going to pay for the public servants.

Why should they get a raise in pay when I don't? And what's more, I can't decide to not pay for their raise, like I could in the private sector; I have no choice.

Now, before the lynchmob comes out, I'm not suggesting we ought to treat public servants like actual servants. My point is only that I think the option should be there for the gov't to go with non-unionised workers, especially when unemployment is high and there just isn't the money coming in from taxes (remember: unemployed people don't pay taxes).

So? What are your thoughts on public sector unions?

Florida 2011 - Days 7 and 8

2011-03-29T14:37:00.017-06:00

Day 7
We decided to go to Busch Gardens in Tampa Bay. I love Busch Gardens. I like animals (which surprises people, for some reason), and I like rollercoastes; why not blend the two?

Cloudy, sort of raining at first. We got there a little late, so I was worried about the lines. Turns out I had nothing to worry about.

Rode Montuu twice. Great coaster.

Saw a guy who was too fat to pull the shoulder harness over him. I was sad for him, and I decided that I would never be like that. Some might misunderstand that sentiment as judgemental; it is actually because I run the risk of it applying to me.

More rain. Not ideal.

Lunch was good. Wife had gotten a free meal for each of us with our tickets, so that saved us money. Decent pizza.

Shiekra. Crazy. Huge, 90 degree drops. Just outstanding. No line for that, either.

Tried to feed the giraffes. So much rain they cancelled it and refunded us. I got $70 in fives... sheesh.

Bought an umbrella, hoped it was big enough for two. It was, sort of...

Called it a day around 4. We were mostly dry, but then the tram took us to the parking lot and it turned out to have been a water ride. Soaked.

Took off my shirt and drove home like a hillbilly. It didn't stop raining.

Went to a place called Sloppy Joe's for supper. Actual sloppy joes are served there. Mozza sticks were ridiculously good. Highly recommend.

Day 8
Had to check out of our super nice hotel. I was sad.

Stopped by the Candy Kitchen. Homemade saltwater taffy, fudge, and ice cream. We bought taffy. I am not a fan - is it gum? - is it food?

Drove back to Orlando, and headed over to our last hotel. It was just a business hotel close to the airport.

4R Smokehouse for supper. Easily the best bbq I've ever had. I would eat there every day. So good. Autographed picture of Third Day on the wall - that was kind of cool.

Delicious. Ate too much.

Spent the rest of the evening relaxing.

Florida 2011 - Day 5 and 6

2011-03-27T20:43:00.000-06:00

I neglected to write last night, so I'm doing two days' worth at once. Yeah, I'm that good...

Slept in. Went to a breakfast buffet. Laurel loves those places, so I went. I realised that these things are a huge part of the obesity problem in North America; fats and carbs as far as the eye can see, expensive water and inexpensive pop (even for breakfast?!?).

Off to Gatorland! This was one of those things my wife did just for me - lucky guy, eh? Huge gator preserve in Orlando, and well worth the admission fee. They have hundreds of alligators and crocodiles and turtles and so forth. They do a couple of really cool shows (Gator Jumparoo, anyone?), and there's a train that takes you around the park. They have a swamp walk (saw a couple of turtles, and a snake), and a petting zoo. The goats can even do tricks like give you a "High 5," which makes my dog look a little dumber....

Ate gator nuggets at this place, too. Good. Chewy.

Headed out to meet up with some of Laurel's family friends who were on vacation here in Orlando. We drove over to Universal Studios (they're at the resort there), and enjoyed catching up with them. I finally got to see Universal at night, too. It was super busy. It might be cool to spend the evening there, but we were tired.

Day 6
Left Orlando and headed west to Tampa. We're staying in this little Gulfside town called Treasure Island, which is basically just a narrow strip of land on the Gulf of Mexico. We arrived a little early for check-in, so we walked across the street (oh yeah, did I mention the hotel is across the street from the beach?) and spent a couple of hours in the water.

I don't like beaches. It's the sand. But my wife is a slamming hottie in a bathing suit, so I'm good with the sand....

Salt water is hard to get used to. It stings the eyes and tastes vile. But I do love the water, and I really enjoy the waves.

This hotel is amazing. Might be the nicest I've ever been in. The room is fantastic, and the bed seems super comfortable (I'll tell you tomorrow, I guess, based on how I sleep tonight). My wife picks the best places!

Supper was at a seafood place called Keegan's. It was shown on Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives. I had the featured grouper sandwich. I don't like fish, and so I was stretching myself to eat it. It was alright.

Did I mention this hotel is awesome? It's nicer than my old apartment.

Lots of people who have driven here from Ohio. I mean, more than any other state. What is it that brings people from there to this place? Speaking of which, I say a hulking Lincoln Navigator with Iowa plates... wow, that's far!

You might have noticed a lack of pictures. I have no good excuse; they're just somewhere on my wife's computer and I don't feel like digging for them.

Florida 2011 - Day 4

2011-03-25T21:28:00.001-06:00

SeaWorld today. This is a great park that I think goes highly underrated because it's not ride-focussed. But, the Manta rollercoaster is really fantastic, and the animal exhibits more than make up for the lack of adrenaline. I was thinking about the various controversies surrounding zoos, and I realised that not too many years ago, a kid from the prairies might never have seen a live dolphin. A lot needs to be said about making sure that animals are well looked-after, but on the whole, I am strongly in favour of zoos.

Touched a Cownose ray today. They feel like wet mushrooms, according to my wife (who did not touch one, and I think it's because she's a chicken).

I saw a dolphin poop today, too. It didn't look like I thought it would. I realise that might be gross to many, but it was noteworthy to me.

Weather was perfect. Cloudless, light breeze, warm-but-not-too-warm temperature.

Why there is a Chili's in Saskatchewan but not in Winnipeg is beyond me. The only thing that Saskatchewan should have that Winnipeg does not is family trees that do not fork. I love that restaurant.

We went to Pirates Cove "Adventure" golf this evening. I love mini-golf (putt-putt, etc). Laurel and I tied, though I suspect it's because she let me win at the end. She insists she didn't, but she's lovely like that.

Apparently, I don't know how to relax. It seems that I like being busy with things when I'm away, and just sitting in the sun makes me feel like I'm "wasting" my vacation. It's weird, because when I'm camping, I'm more than happy to just sit and read a book.

I love this place. I know that I'm seeing everything through the eyes of a tourist from Canada, but I like being here. The weather's been nice, and things are really clean (people talk about how Canada is so much cleaner than the US, but the sidewalks here are far cleaner than at home), no one pesters me on the sidewalk for money, etc.

Tomorrow is Gatorland. I'm pumped. It isn't related to my beloved Florida Gators, but the actual creatures. Super pumped.

Florida 2011 - Day 3

2011-03-23T18:59:00.000-06:00

Universal Studios: Islands of Adventure is probably the greatest theme park in the great state of Florida. If you show up anywhere near Orlando and do not visit, then you have very likely wasted your trip.

It was very hot here. Loved it. I seem to have forgotten that skin does burn, and now my neck is sore. C'est la vie.

Apparently, it is Spring Break here. This would explain why there were approximately 400,000 people at this park. Sweet fancy Moses, but was it busy!

New Harry Potter area was busier than I've ever seen in a place. Laurel insists that it was busier than Disneyland at closing time. I thought it was a really great-looking place, but as I couldn't care less about Harry Potter without risking a skull implosion, I didn't "get" a lot of it; what is "butterbeer," and why were there longer lines to get some than were at a number of rides? Still, it was really well done.

Water rides are awesome when it is super hot outside. Wet underwear, however, sucks no matter the weather.

We were standing at the entrance to the Dudley Do-Right log flume ride and saw the wait time was 60 mins. We turned away when a nice fellow from the park asked us if we wanted to go on the ride. We did, so we followed him through the exits and then he led us right to the loading zone. On we went, right away. That was fantastic, and I wanted to thank the guy afterward, but he was gone.

There were far too many youngish-looking women wearing far too little clothing. Where are these girls' fathers? Who lets them out to a park with lots of G-forces dressed like that? There were also a bunch of people there who were dressed in clothes that - let's just say - didn't flatter their figure. And I say that knowing full well that I could be one of those people.

We might have visited every bathroom in the park.

So much walking. My feet are still a little sore.

Overall, outstanding.

Florida 2011 - Day 2

2011-03-22T19:32:00.000-06:00

Didn't sleep in. Up for quick breakfast, and then Laurel and I headed off to a place called St Augustine.

It's the oldest city in the US. How about that, eh? What's odd is that it doesn't show up when I asked the GPS to take me there. I did, however, find it on the GPS' map.... that was odd. The trip out there was outstanding; traffic was lovely, the weather was gorgeous.

This was an unusual trip in that we didn't really know what we were going to do when we got there. There were a few places we wanted to see, but we had no idea what we really wanted to do. We also had no idea what to expect.

Turns out that St Augustine has an "historic" downtown, so that's where we went.

Tourist map shows a lot of museums and so forth. We started off with the Castillo de San Marcos, an 18th century fort and castle. Really cool; reminded me of the Citadel Hill in Halifax, just a little smaller.

Lots of walking. It was hot.

I didn't expect that each different place cost an additional entrance fee. I guess it's because some of them are owned by private companies. This would have been nice to know ahead of time. I expected something more like Lower Fort Garry in Manitoba, where you pay an entrance fee and just wander around as you like.

Castillo de San Marco - worth it.
Spanish Quarter - worth it. Got to see a musket firing, and talked to a dude who made real things out of leather.
Pirate Treasure Museum - didn't go because it was something like $12 each. Boo to that.
Scenic Trolley tours - $23 each; no way, no how.
Oldest House - worth it.

Listen, St Augustine was cool. I recommend it for a day trip. Just know that you'll have to try to wade through commercial people selling stuff that doesn't have anything to do with the history of the City.

The ride back was good. Some traffic, but then it was supper time at Smokey Bones BBQ. Pretty good.

Relaxing in hotel - worth it.

Florida 2011 - Day 1

2011-03-21T19:18:00.000-06:00

Apparently, leaving the choice up to the car rental place means that I'm driving around a black Crown Victoria. It's gigantic, and I feel like a senior citizen... or a cop.

On that subject, if I love driving on American roads any more stronger, my wife will have good reason to become jealous.

Denny's for breakfast? - outstanding.

Saw a red Volkswagen beetle with a huge lobster on the roof. I mean, it was like a second car on top of the Beetle. I don't know what company it was for, but I definitely know that it was for "All You Can Eat Lobster." Should have taken a picture....

28.9 degrees Celsius here. 0C at home. Yup. Choke on it.

Staying in a Super 8. It's nothing fancy, but for $35/night, I can't complain too much. However, I will say that working in Student Residence makes me paranoid about every little possible thing regarding cleanliness and pests...

Cheesecake Factory for supper. Outstanding.

Mall at Millenia: Where "fashion" is a fancy word for saying, "Going to cost you a pile." Seriously, there was nowhere except Macy's that I thought I could spend my money because everywhere else was ridiculous.

Did something I never thought I would do - bought something at the Apple Store. My iPod died a month ago, and I can't get a Classic anywhere except there. Man, do I hate that place.

I love Florida. So very much.

On Unions, briefly

2011-02-21T00:40:00.000-06:00

The recent protests in Wisconsin have me thinking about unions in general. Here are my opening thoughts:

In general, people need to realise that a Union is a business and that the reps want to get paid as much as possible. With that in mind, it becomes clear that they'll only fight for you when your interests and theirs match up; the moment your interests and theirs aren't in line, you can bet they'll throw you under the first bus with a smile on their faces....

Ever notice that Union voices are often the first to decry labour law reforms? Perhaps they realise that the sooner people notice they could stop paying a union if the laws made them obsolete, the sooner they'd all have to find real jobs....

No business has to employ people who are covered under a collective bargaining agreement, and no one is entitled to it. It is a right in that no one can prevent you from being in a union, but if your union company (for that is what a union is - a company) can't pitch a "winning bid" in terms of wages/etc, they deserve to lose that contract, just like any other company....

More later, perhaps.

Football!

2011-02-15T16:08:00.000-06:00

I miss football...

Day 21-29

2011-01-04T14:14:00.001-06:00

Day 21 - My Job/Schooling
I have a Bachelor's of Arts degree in Political Science from the U of Manitoba. My minor is Philosophy.
I have a Master's of Arts degree in Student Development from Providence Seminary.
I am the Assistant Manager of Housing at the U of Winnipeg. My main responsibilities are maintenance, discipline, policy development, accounts payable, RA development, and in the coming months I'll also be looking after the implementation of new software to help us manage our residences. I like my job a lot; I'm better at certain aspects than others. I enjoy the people with whom I work a great deal, and respect them for their talents. My boss is amazing, and I am constantly impressed with her skill and attention to detail.

The students are really a mixed bag. Some of them wind up in my office because they broke some rule, or did something else ridiculous. Others come by and hang out in the office with the RAs. Others I don't think I've met because they're never here aside to pay their rent. All students are a constant source of stories - some good, but most mind-boggling. One day I'd like to travel to other schools and collect their stories and then publish the thing. I'd read it.

Day 22 - Something That Upsets Me
I'm sort of a curmudgeon, I think, so there are a number of things that irritate me. The things that would upset me, however, belong to a shorter list.
1) Heresy. I am bothered when someone teaches something that is untrue about the character or nature of God, or His Word. That upsets me. I'm angry with that teacher, but I'm upset when someone believes that teacher. I'm saddened by it, and I'm motivated to try to set things straight. I'll argue about the issue, but it's not the same way in which I argue about whether the Bombers are better than the Riders (and they are... always), but it feels desperate to me; what you believe about who God is and what He says is of eternal importance! I would be unloving if I didn't try to help you see the truth.
2) Injustice. I am upset by people taking advantage of others, and especially when the victims are innocent - children, vulnerable people, animals, etc. It's why revenge tales are so interesting to me, I guess; I want to see wrongs righted. What I am learning, however, is that the Gospel trumps all need to correct a social ill. That doesn't mean I don't care about injustice, but that I will never tell someone that the most important thing is justice - it's the gift of God received by faith in Christ.
3) When I am misunderstood. It happens far more than I'd like...

Day 23 - Something That Makes Me Feel Better
1) Playing football
2) Music
3) Spending time with my wife
4) Prayer
5) Reading
6) Bible study
7) Driving

Day 24 - Something That Makes Me Cry
Hah! Well, contrary to what it seems most people believe, I actually do have emotions, so this subject will actually apply.
1) Great theological truths. When I look into God's Word and I read Psalm 13, or Romans 5, or John 9, or 1 Corinthians 15, or Revelation, or.... Well, the list continues. That the Almighty Creator of the universe, the Holy One who judges the living and the dead, loved mankind - a sinful, rebellious, blasphemous group if ever there was one - enough that He would cause Himself to take our place, and pay our wages..... And this was because of His immeasurable grace.... and that it is by faith alone that I am redeemed.... I dare you not to get a little misty-eyed at that.
2) Certain movies have been known to do it to me. Rudy, for one. Seriously... something about that little guy...
3) Remembrance Day services. To consider the sacrifice of so many men and women who willingly gave up everything so that I could enjoy the freedom to do something as trivial as play football brings a lump to my throat.
4) Deep relationships have that effect on me, too. I'm moved to tears by how I feel about my wife, my parents, my siblings, my close friends...

Okay... enough of that or I'm going to well up, here.

Day 25 - My Sleeping Habits
I'm a night person naturally. Given no schedule, I'll stay up till 2 and get out of bed around 9. However, work demands I be in the office for 8:30, so I'm in bed around 10:45 and up around 7:15.

Day 26 - My Fears
Really? This is what's next? Yikes.... Okay... let's see....
I'm afraid of being vulnerable. Yep. That means writing about my fears is especially challenging.
I am afraid of being inferior. I hate that I might not be good enough.
I don't like to be in a too-closed space. Small rooms are fine, even a closet. The idea of being buried alive in a coffin, however, makes my heart race.

Day 27 - My Favourite Place
Lots of options come to mind... The football field. Wherever my wife is. Orlando, Florida. Australia. Church.

Day 28 - Something That I Miss
I miss my friend Andy. He moved to Calgary awhile ago, and it feels like we've drifted apart in the meantime. I call him every so often, but I used to see him twice a week minimum. I miss him, and I hope I get to talk to him soon.

Day 29 - My Favourite Food/Drink
Oh golly.... too many to list, I think. I love food (belied by my waist size...), so this will be nowhere near exhaustive:
1) Steak
2) Hamburgers
3) Pizza (especially the Tropical Chicken from Boston Pizza!!)
4) Red Pepper
5) Chocolate
6) Chocolate Milk
7) Cherry Coke
8) Roast Turkey/Chicken
9) Cheesecake
10) Frozen custard (thanks, Jules...)

Up next: Day 30 - My Aspirations

Day 16-20

2011-01-04T12:17:00.000-06:00

I slacked off and I slacked off hard. With that in mind, I'm going to pound out a pile of these posts all at once.

Day 16 - My First Kiss
It was in my girlfriend's parents' living room. It was storming, and it was a Tuesday afternoon, around supper time. I was 17, and so was she, and we'd been dating for about a month. We were sitting on her couch in the dark enjoying the lightning show, and I leaned over and kissed her.
It was pretty amazing, to my recollection. Of course, memory does play tricks when it comes to those "big moments," but I remember that my lips tingled all through my shift at Wendy's afterwards, and I wanted to go back there right away.

Day 17 - My Favourite Memory
Hard to pinpoint because it's so broad. I'll list a few (in no real particular order, aside from the first) and we'll see what that gets us.
1) June 13, 2008 - My wedding day. I will never forget the moment when I saw Laurel for the first time at the back of the church. My breath caught, and my knees wobbled a little. She was (and is) stunning. You can read more about it here.
2) March, 2001 - My trip to Australia. It was awesome. I spent a month in Adelaide, hanging out with some Aussie friends I'd made years before. If I could do it over again, the only thing I would change would be that I'd stay longer, and see more of the country, but I enjoyed every minute of being in Adelaide. I'd go back in a heartbeat.
3) June 19, 2008 - My first kiss with Laurel. Yeah, it was a good one. 'Nuff said.
4) Summer, 1991 (I think) - Family trip to Colorado. We camped all the way down there, and I got to see a big suspension bridge over the Rio Grande, Mount Rushmore, and Deadwood. It was a really awesome trip.
5) Summer, 1994 (or 1995...) - My first sack. I had moved to the defensive line and barrelled through an open hole in the offensive line. I tackled the QB and got such a rush that I knew I wanted more. I led my team in sacks that year, but we weren't a very good team so that's not saying much....

Day 18 - My Favourite Birthday
I spent the day with Laurel and we did all these things I liked - bbq in the park, played catch, saw a movie, went for dinner. It was awesome. I think it was my 29th.
I have a bad habit of forgetting my birthday. One year I didn't remember until my mom wished me a happy birthday when I got home from school. I'm dumb like that.

Day 19 - Something I Regret
This could be a very long list. I remember most of my bad decisions very well, and sometimes I still re-live them in a way; tight chest, sweating, the rest. I know that my bad decisions helped shape me into who I am today, so in many ways I don't wish they had never happened, but I think I would prefer to not have them in my past.... Here are a few things:
1) Stupid bus ticket forgery in 2001. Sheesh. I'm still trying to get the US Border Guards to understand what happened, and it's a pain in the backside.
2) Not taking the SATs. They're optional here, but required for going to school in the US. I think I could have gotten in somewhere else, and I think I would have really enjoyed that.
3) Not continuing to play football through high school. My school didn't have a team, but I should have tried to transfer and continue. I wish I had made that a greater priority, because I really enjoyed it.
4) How it went at the U of M. Man, I think about how my job went and I know I could have done a tonne of things differently. It annoys me that things went that way, but I learned a pile of things.
5) Not standing up for myself more. I wish I had learned earlier on that how people behave is more a reflection of who they are than who I am. I wish I had learned earlier how to eviscerate bullies with words. The usual.

Day 20 - My Morning Routine
Wake up
Hug wife
Shower
Brush teeth/dress/etc
Hug wife
Let dog out of her kennel
Feed dog
Check email
Let dog outside
Pack lunch

Play with/walk dog
Remotely start car
Put dog in kennel
Get dropped off at work

Phew! Okay, later today I'll pound out the rest of the days.

Day 15 - Where I Live

2010-11-17T16:18:00.000-06:00

I could go on for pages and pages about this topic, depending on how specific I wanted to be. I'm going to start big and work my way down.

I live on Earth, third planet from the sun called Sol (or so it is called in sci-fi, and they're never wrong).
I live in the northern hemisphere, home to 90% of the world's wealth, I'm told. It's also home to the majority of the land mass on this planet. I wonder if anyone's ever noted a correlation between amount of dry land and wealth....

I live in Canada. We're the second largest country by area, the world's longest coastline. We share the world's longest unprotected border with the United States of America. Canada is a lot like a dysfunctional family at times, and I think everyone in the country would be better off if we started thinking about ourselves as Canadians, not Quebecois, Albertans, First Nations, french, etc.

I live in Manitoba. This province is smack in the middle of the country, and has access to Hudson's Bay in the northeast. We also have polar bears. Manitoba is home to an insane percentage of the world's fresh water. We're a prairie province, which means we have a lot of farmland, we have virtually no humidity, and a huge range of temperatures from summer to winter (35C to -35C, not including windchill). I heard that Cat (the tractor company?) tests a lot of their equipment here with the reasoning that if it will last in Manitoba, it will work just fine everywhere in the world.

I live in Winnipeg, Manitoba's capital. I love this city, even though I can see all of the things wrong with it. We're cheap (not frugal - there is a difference) and afraid to ever spend money. We love to complain. We have a lack of vision for this city (due in part to our cheapness), and because we like to complain, nothing innovative ever gets done here; Winnipeg is where good ideas go to die. I also see so many great things. Winnipeggers are first to donate, first to help. Winnipeg has a fantastic musical history (Neil Young and the Guess Who, anyone?). We are hard-working. We value people. Winnipeg is also home to the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, the Manitioba Moose, and used to house the Winnipeg Jets.

I live in the West End. It's an old neighbourhood (100 years ago, it was the suburbs, apparently), with old houses. It's very left-wing politically, electing socialists and leftists without even a second thought. We're home to a lot of new immigrants and First Nations people. Our streets are lined with huge elm trees that, in summer, make the street look like a green tunnel. There are some really great people in this area, but unfortunately it's gotten something of a bad reputation due to some crime in the far east side of the neighbourhood.

I live on a street called Ingersoll Street. It was named after the father of a woman named Laura Secord. My house is about 100 years old, and is a 1 - 3/4 storey house. I like it a lot, and am very glad we live here. There are a few things I want to do to improve it, but living here has been very cool. I'd like a larger yard for my dog, and a driveway for my car, but this place is close to work, affordable, clean, and safe.

That's where I live. I am very blessed to be able to say so.

Up Next: Day 16 - My First Kiss

Day 13 - My Mode of Transportation

2010-11-15T00:55:00.000-06:00

To and from work:

To and from many places:

Everywhere else: My feet

Up Next: Day 14 - Where I Live

On Mega-Churches

2010-11-12T01:42:00.000-06:00

For your consideration:

Christian churches ought never reach an attending population of more than 300. Once a church reaches that size, it ought to reproduce into smaller groups, and expand into the community. In this way, it becomes difficult for someone to "hide" in the congregation and not serve the church in some way. It also increases the number of places where the Word of God is being preached, and therefore the number of opportunities a person has to hear the gospel.

Thoughts?

Day 12 - What's in My Bag

2010-11-05T11:17:00.000-06:00

One bike lock.

Up Next: Day 13 - My Mode of Transportation

Day 11 - My Siblings

2010-11-04T10:49:00.000-06:00

My brother's name is Philip, but most everyone calls him Phil. He's two years younger than I am, but I think he's more mature. He lives in Ottawa, and is married with a little girl, who might be the cutest baby in existence (at least, until mine comes along and hopefully looks like more like Laurel).

I love my brother, but we didn't get along for most of our teen years. We fought, we argued, we behaved badly towards each other. Things drastically improved when we were out of high school, and I was very proud to have him as my best man.

I don't think we look alike. I also wish I had his work ethic, self-discipline, and had focussed on health when he did (he lost a lot of weight when he was 15; I should have done the same).

Phil works for the federal government in Ottawa, and does his job very well. It's funny where we've each ended up in our careers; he had always wanted to be involved in ministry, and I wanted to be in gov't. Now, I think I might like to be in ministry, and he works in gov't. Makes me laugh.

This is a picture of the two of us that I especially enjoy. We were on vacation as a big family to Orlando this past December.

Up next: Day 12 - What's in My Bag

Day 10 - What I Wore Today

2010-11-03T10:29:00.000-06:00

So far:
70s retro Blue Bomber hat
White T-shirt that says, "Canada"
Blue jeans
Grey socks

Up next: Day 11 - My Siblings

Day 9 - My Beliefs

2010-10-18T23:54:00.000-06:00

This one is ridiculously vague. How many of my beliefs shall I list? Is this supposed to be exhaustive? Craziness.

To believe is to act as if a thing were so, I read once. I think it was on my former boss' corkboard. I've always liked that idea; if you want to know what I believe, look at my actions. Do I believe that people deserve to be treated with respect? - it will show in how I treat people. Do I believe that Hell is real? - it will show in how desperate I am for others to hear the Gospel. So, maybe this is better asked than told: what do I believe?

I hope that my actions declare that I believe every word in the Bible to be true. I hope that you look at my life and see a man trying to honour the God who saves all humanity from their sin by His grace, through their faith. That's what I want you to say I believe.

Up Next: Day 10 - What I Wore Today

Day 8 - A Precious Item

2010-10-18T23:46:00.000-06:00

This one was harder than I expected. I think it's because I don't have any item that is irreplaceable. I have things I like, or things that are expensive, but everything can be replaced, or done without.

Since I have to, though, I will narrow it to two items, and hopefully manage to explain something of the thought behind the short list.

1) My wedding ring. It's not a fancy ring, though I think it's pretty neat. It's concave on the surface rather than flat or convex. But the ring itself is not unique. It wasn't even really that expensive. Of course, the ring is a symbol of a vow I made to God and to Laurel; I will be her husband until death separates us, forsaking all other people and things. The ring is just a symbol of that, not the vow itself, but because it represents my promise, it's more precious to me than anything else I own.

2) My hard drive. I am not a responsible computer owner. I do not back up my data regularly or even at all. On my hard drive you will find music, pictures, videos, papers, etc from my life. Things are chronicled here that are recorded nowhere else. It's not the hard drive that's valuable, though, but the data on it. So, until I get an external hard drive and back up my life, those little 1s and 0s are irreplaceable.

I suppose that's it. Everything else is either a need that can be replaced, or a luxury that I can either replace or make do without.

Up Next - Day 9: My Beliefs

Day 7 - My Best Friend

2010-10-15T22:15:00.000-06:00

Back at this thing; my best friend.

I've been blessed to have more than just one. So, here we go:

Sean (aka "Cap'n"). He grew up across the street from me in Winnipeg, and was the first person I met when I moved here in grade 8. He was playing basketball in his driveway, and we struck up a conversation about music.
We've been friends for almost 20 years. We've seen innumerable girlfriends come and go (mostly him; I only had 4 in my life); we've argued over plates of wings about politics, culture, and religion; we've seen the other at his worst, and at his best. Even though I can always count on the Cap'n to be late to everything, I also know that I can count on him to have my back at every turn.
Something I've always respected about Sean is his implacable positivity. He always believes he can do something, and always believes the best in people. I'm most certainly not like that.

Marek. Met him in grade 9. We were your typical geeks, and gravitated towards each other. He carried me through grade 9 french, basically. When it was time to choose a high school, Marek surprised me by saying, "Hey, you pick and I'll go there." That always meant a lot to me. Marek is a genius, excelling at every subject in school. It was no surprise that he went into Engineering, and none at all that he is now pursuing his PhD in Computer Engineering.
He's been there for me, even when he didn't know what to do. We used to joke that he had no concept of how to relate to people, but that changed. He's been with his girlfriend Carmen for a few years now, and they have an adorable little girl named Shannon.
One thing I've always respected about Marek is his ability to think critically about every situation, and to do so with precision, and to express himself succinctly. He doesn't get caught up in "big picture" stuff like I do, and he always makes a very good point. I learned early to listen to his advice because it was almost always something I hadn't considered.

I could be at this for days, really. I could tell you about Andy, who I've known for as long as Sean and who has been a constant friend to me, and who struggled with a lot of the same stuff I did. I could tell you about Colin, who I met in University, and who has challenged me to be a better person. I could talk about Joe, who is the tallest Philipino in the world at 6'5", and who is always fun to spend time with. And there are others; people I couldn't list exhaustively if I tried.

I have been richly blessed with friendships that have been tested and tried. I've been able to go weeks without talking to each person at times, only to fall right back into hanging out as though no time had passed. Some might accuse that of being too superficial; I say we're comfortable enough with each other that there is no need to force "maintenance" on the relationship.

Up Next: Day 8 - A Precious Item

Day 6 - My Hobbies

2010-10-08T00:08:00.000-06:00

I've been in Minneapolis for work, and it's been exhausting. Thus, I've been a little lax in keeping this up. So, here we are again, and in 3D list format!

Please note that for full 3D effect, you'll need to either move your face toward the monitor, or your monitor toward your face... you choose.

1. Football. I play, I ref, I watch, I talk. I would do these things everyday if I had the chance.
2. Music. I play, I listen, I talk, I sing. I love music, and it's always been a part of my life.
3. Books. I love books. I read a variety of styles and authors, but as I am a colossal geek, sci-fi and fantasy are my favourites.
4. Movies. I love movies.
5. Video games. Once again, I am a colossal geek. If I had more money, I would have more games...
6. My dog. She's more like a burden.... kidding! I like having a dog, even when it's work.

I guess that's about it... I'm sure there are more, but I just do what I like to do and I leave it at that.

Up Next: Day 7 - My Best Friend

Day 5 - My Definition of Love

2010-10-03T01:05:00.001-06:00

How do I define love?

1 John 4:7-21
Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love. This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him. This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us.
We know that we live in him and he in us, because he has given us of his Spirit. And we have seen and testify that the Father has sent his Son to be the Saviour of the world. If anyone acknowledges that Jesus is the Son of God, God lives in him and he in God. And so we know and rely on the love God has for us.
God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in him. In this way, love is made complete among us so that we will have confidence on the day of judgment, because in this world we are like him. There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.
We love because he first loved us. If anyone says, "I love God," yet hates his brother, he is a liar. For anyone who does not love his brother, whom he has seen, cannot love God, whom he has not seen. And he has given us this command: Whoever loves God must also love his brother.

John 14:23-24
Jesus replied, "If anyone loves me, he will obey my teaching. My Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our home with him. He who does not love me will not obey my teaching. These words you hear are not my own; they belong to the Father who sent me."

John 3:16
For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.

John 15:3
Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends.

Romans 5:8-11
But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Since we have now been justified by his blood, how much more shall we be saved from God's wrath through him! For if, when we were God's enemies, we were reconciled to him through the death of his Son, how much more, having been reconciled, shall we be saved through his life!

Romans 8:38-39
For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

1 Corinthians 13
If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. If I give all I possess to the poor and surrender my body to the flames, but have not love, I gain nothing.
Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away. For we know in part and we prophesy in part, but when perfection comes, the imperfect disappears. When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put childish ways behind me. Now we see but a poor reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.
And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.

Up next: Day 6 - My Hobbies

Day 4 - My Music

2010-09-30T21:39:00.000-06:00

It's hard to describe, really. I like what I like. I enjoy a wide variety of styles, too. So, figuring that a picture is worth 1000 words, here's the longest post I've ever typed:

This is from a fluid playlist I called "Favourite 100." As you can see, however, there are only 99. What's more, I haven't updated this in a little while... But I think it answers the question, "What kind of music does Chris like best?"

Up Next: Day 5 - My Definition of Love

Day 3 - My Parents

2010-09-27T20:46:00.000-06:00

In truth, I could go on for a long time about my parents. I love them to death, and have 31 years of experience with them.... even if I only remember about 28 of those years.

My dad's name is John. He was born in Winnipeg, but grew up in England before moving back here as a teenager. He has a twin brother, and was the middle of 5 children. My dad joined the Canadian Air Force, and had them pay for his university education ("Free degree, and a job when I'm done"). I don't think he ever planned on it being a career, but 31 years later, he retired as a Colonel; a very impressive feat for someone who was never a pilot.
My dad's always said that he thinks he was a bad father; I always tell him he's crazy. He loved my family, loved my mom, worked hard to provide, demonstrated a commitment to God, and was a good role model in general. Other people didn't have that luxury, and I'm very proud that he's my dad.
In lots of ways, he's my hero, and has been for a long time. I've always sought his approval, and his advice; he's never been stingy with either. My errors were teaching moments; his errors were teaching moments; his advice was to the point, even when it was hard for me to hear. I am a lot like him; we're both stubborn, both proud, both enjoy teaching, both react the same way when hurt. One thing that I've really appreciated learning from him is how to deal with the various idiots in the world; taking their nonsense personally is a waste of my own effort. That lesson has served me very very well in my career.
More than anything else, though, I have appreciated the way I have seen his love for God grow. It's always been important to him, but as I've matured, I've seen just how deeply he loves Christ, and how desperately he wants to serve and glorify Him. I like that.

My mom's name is Catherine Margaret Rae, but everyone calls her Rae. She's a nurse, though she's never worked in a hospital as a "regular" nurse. She was a mom first, and the shift work just wasn't going to make that very easy. So, she was a public health nurse, taught prenatal care, taught in colleges, etc. Most recently, she's been an instructor a the University of Manitoba, working with the practicum, or clinical, aspect of that degree. She also has a doctorate. She's a smart lady.
I think I have a lot of my mom's qualities, too. We both have (sort of) quick tempers, we are both stubborn (I come by it honestly, eh?), we have a common strange sense of humour, as well. I think we both enjoy "hosting," though she's way better at it than I. I've really enjoyed learning from her experience as a Counsellor; she gives excellent insights into people that I often don't see.
My mom has taught me about loving God, as well. She strives to glorify Him, and her courage to pray is humbling; she believes in the power of prayer - my scepticism sometimes blinds me to it.

My parents are generous, kind, and loving. They will give of their own stuff without a moment's hesitation. My dad said something once that I love: I will not be held hostage by my possessions. In other words, if you get the carpet dirty, that's life. Nothing except people are irreplaceable. That was comforting, as a clumsy teenager. My mom has been an incredible example of what Biblical submission is: call her a doormat, and I know that you've never spent any time with her. She's modelled what it means to put the other person first, even when she has been stubborn in not wanting to. And my dad has never taken advantage of that, but has lived out Ephesians 5. I hope I can carry those lessons on into my marriage.

Like I said, I could go on and on. I am who I am because of my parents. They have loved me without fail, taught me without condemning, and have, most importantly, loved Christ with their whole hearts. I pity others who have not had my parents as theirs, no matter how great their parents might have been. I am truly blessed.

Up Next - My Music

Day 2 - My First Love

2010-09-26T16:49:00.001-06:00

The first girl I ever said, "I love you," to in a romantic way was my first girlfriend, Sherry. We were high school sweethearts; dating through 12th Grade, and to the end of October of our first year of university. She had red hair, liked the same books and music as I did, and wasn't a Christian. She was very sweet, though, and was also my first kiss.

We met in English class, when we discovered that we both liked the Wheel of Time books by Robert Jordan. Lunch hours were spent going over various theories about what would happen next; her friends thought we were super geeks, but it was awesome. I eventually became part of her circle of friends, and we hung out constantly until I finally worked up the courage to ask her out.

She said no.

But a month or two later, she asked me out instead. I guess she'd gotten over whatever had caused her to say no previously.

We dated about a year. It was good. We wrote each other letters, and played games, and did all those couple-ly things people do.

University started and we made time to meet up on campus, each lunch, etc. She started getting into the parties on campus, but they weren't my style. All was fine, though I did sort of start to feel tinges of jealousy when she would go to parties, drink, and spend time with other guys in their dorm rooms (always in more than one, she said).

I'm going to spare you the gory details of our breakup, and my heartbreak. If you want to know, ask sometime. It ended badly, from my perspective.

So, that was my first love.

I learned two very valuable lessons from my relationship with Sherry:
1) Despite many Christians' perspective that it's sinful for a Christian to date a non-Christian, I disagree. It's not wrong like lying is wrong. I would say that it's probably unwise. There isn't the same core value system, which means that there aren't shared priorities. Someone will have to compromise, and it's almost always the Christian who does so;
2) God is very good. He redeems personal tragedies to teach us about who He is, who we are in Him, and glorify Himself.

Up Next: Day 3 - My Parents

Day 1 - Introduction

2010-09-25T20:43:00.000-06:00

I'm going to rock this thing in point form. You call it laziness, I call it efficient.

I am:
- Redeemed by Christ, by the grace of God. It is not of my own effort, but a gift from Him. Without Him, I am without hope, and without purpose. I am very interested in sharing more about this with whomever wants to know. Ask, condemn, criticise... I'll take everything.
- Christopher Adam Harwood, age 31.
- Married to a wonderful woman named Laurel. We've been married for just over a year. I love her dearly, and defy you to find me a more beautiful woman; one does not exist.
- Owner of a nearly 100 year old house in Winnipeg's "West End." Of course, the "West End" is really more downtown than west. I like owning a house, but miss not having responsibilities.
- Assistant Manager of Housing at the University of Winnipeg. I look after discipline, maintenance, ongoing policy development, and RA development. I like my job a great deal, and have no plans to leave.
- Active in my church. I wear a lot of hats there, but my two favourite are being involved with the Youth, and playing bass in the Worship Team.
- Owner (and trying to be master) of Darby, a 5 month old beagle who is dangerously cute, and rampantly stubborn. In the former, much like my wife. In the latter, much like me. She bites when she knows she's in trouble, but is usually very sweet.
- A rabid fan of the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, and the University of Florida Gators. I will also cheer for the U of Manitoba Bisons football team, and the Green Bay Packers. You'll also find Essendon Bombers stuff in my house. I love football.
- A football fanatic. I've played for years, will play any day, any time, and have reffed for a couple of years.
- Educated at the U of Manitoba, and Providence Seminary. My first degree (B of A: Political Science) was only useful in that it fuelled an interest in politics. My second degree (M of A: Student Development) pays my mortgage.
- Very pleased with my life right now. There are things I would change, of course, but I am quite content.

Coming Next: Day 2 - My First Love

Back At It

2010-09-23T10:53:00.004-06:00

I've been away from this for a long time. Too many things have happened for an in-depth look at any of them. So, I'm going to do this instead:

On each day, I will attempt to discuss the appropriate topic.
Day 01 - Introduce yourself
Day 02 – Your first love
Day 03 – Your parents
Day 04 – Your music
Day 05 – Your definition of love
Day 06 – Your hobbies
Day 07 – Your best friend
Day 08 – A precious item
Day 09 – Your beliefs
Day 10 – What you wore today
Day 11 – Your siblings
Day 12 – What’s in your bag
Day 13 – Your mode of transportation
Day 14 – Where you live
Day 15 – Your childhood
Day 16 – Your first kiss
Day 17 – Your favorite memory
Day 18 – Your favorite birthday
Day 19 – Something you regret
Day 20 – Your morning routine
Day 21 – Your job and/or schooling
Day 22 – Something that upsets you
Day 23 – Something that makes you feel better
Day 24 – Something that makes you cry
Day 25 – Your sleeping habits
Day 26 – Your fears
Day 27 – Your favorite place
Day 28 – Something that you miss
Day 29 – Your favorite foods/drinks
Day 30 – Your aspirations

I'll give it a whirl, anyway.

Winnipeg History

2010-06-04T23:14:00.002-06:00

In case you weren't aware, I'm a history buff. I think it started with reading those great Asterix and Obelix cartoons; I know that's why I took Latin in university, at any rate.

Well, I'm also a lover of trivia. I find it enriches my life, though I know I'm unusual in that respect as well.

So, when I started to wonder why Winnipeg streets were named the way they were (for some insane reason, Winnipeg eschews the numerical system - drives people crazy when they can't just count streets to know where to go), I started looking for an online resource. Then I found this site.

I live on Ingersoll street, which according to that site, is named such after Major Thomas Ingersoll, father of Laura Secord, who fought in the War of 1812.

Tell me that's not cool. I dare you.

How to be Resourceful

2010-05-18T08:36:00.002-06:00

I love this story because it demonstrates two things:
1) People are remarkably resourceful;
2) Other people are remarkably vain.

I'd hire him, for sure.

Reminds me of a story I once heard about a tough job market back in the days of the telegraph. Men from everywhere had responded to the office for an interview, and were all sitting in the waiting room. There was no secretary organising things, just a telegraph clicking away in the corner. The placed was stuffed with people, and had been for hours. A man walked in, stood in the room for a moment, and then headed into the boss' office without being called.

Everyone was shocked. Moments later, the boss came out and told the other men to go home, he was hiring the fellow who walked in. When asked why, he explained that the telegraph in the corner had been him, clicking out the message: Come in. The job is yours. Come in. The job is yours.

One day, I'm using that in a sermon illustration. Now, I just need a sermon for it.

Unlike Any Other

2010-04-19T13:37:00.003-06:00

Some of you know I love the Florida Gators football team. And if you don't know, you do now.

My list goes like this:
1) Winnipeg Blue Bombers
2) Winnipeg Blue Bombers
3) Florida Gators
4) U of Manitoba Bisons
I came across this article about Tim Tebow and I was blown away. Give it a read. Even if you're only a casual football fan, it can't but impress.

And what impresses me more than his stats (which are amazing) is his personal life; a young man who is dedicated to living out his faith in Jesus Christ, unapologetic in his witness. He is vocal when he is asked, but he is active no matter who is looking. He is not perfect, and I will not paint him as such. Tebow is who God made him, and by God's grace, Tebow realises just who Christ is. He is an excellent example of Godly priorities; everything except Christ fades away.

Angel of Finance?

2010-04-19T13:03:00.003-06:00

Let it never be said I don't struggle for you, my dear readers, because this video nearly killed me.

Todd Bentley, you are no follower of Christ. You are no prophet, though you follow a profit wherever you go. You are a stealer of sheep, a damnable liar, and would be better off with a millstone around your neck on route to the Mariana Trench (viz Matt 18:6).

Just so we're clear.

Classic Rock

2010-04-15T07:45:00.002-06:00

I love classic rock. I love the bands that perfected the wailing guitar solo, "cruise" music, and the sold-out arenas.

With that, I give you this: Classic rock test. It's an ingeniously made quiz where you listen to 10 seconds of classic rock with no words, and guess the song. It's timed, but you have enough time to listen to all the clips twice.

My only complaint is that spelling counts. That means if the song is for example "Rock 'n' Roll" and you type "Rock and Roll," you might not get it and that's frustrating. Still, it's a really fun quiz.

My best is 29/36 songs. What's yours?

NCAA 11

2010-04-12T08:08:00.001-06:00

One day, when Sony acquiesces to my wishes and makes their PS3 backwards-compatible, I will own this game. In the meantime:

Earth Hour

2010-03-27T23:20:00.002-06:00

Today was the day we were all supposed to turn off our lights (and so on) for an hour in the evening - a way of marking climate change, I suppose.

Well, I didn't participate. I didn't participate for two reasons: 1) I didn't remember it was tonight until after the appointed time; 2) I didn't feel like it.

I work at a very liberal university in Winnipeg (I'll let you figure out which one) where I am bombarded with constant preaching about climate change, recycling, composting, sustainability, etc etc. Frankly, it drives me nuts. I don't want to buy into your new religion, thank you, so please stop trying to convert me.

I'll recycle if it doesn't cost me more than it does to not recycle. I'll compost if I'm not going to have to pay for it out of my pocket. Yes, I recognise how frustrating that makes the left wing hippies, but I don't mind one bit. You see, I would rather have more money for things like paying bills than making sure my recycling boxes are full and I have a big compost pile in the yard. I'll drive if I want to, ride the bus when I have to, and walk/bike when it's convenient.

I like to think I'm the voice of balance, here. I will not be held hostage by my possessions, nor by my refuse. I use less than many, and more than some; I recycle when it's available, and leave others to do as they please.

Well, that feels better. Thanks, Earth Hour!

Days in the Months

2010-03-01T15:29:00.003-06:00

Okay readers, don't say I'm not giving you something useful.

I can never remember which months have more days. I know there's a rhyme, but I never learned it, and keep forgetting it. I just learned a trick from my landlady that goes like this:
1) Make a fist.
2) Start with January on your index finger's knuckle. See how it's all jutted out? That means that it's a "big month" of 31 days.
3) The gap is February. Little month.
4) Next knuckle is March. Big month.
5) Repeat until your pinky's knuckle. It should be July.
6) Start with August on your index knuckle, as it's big too.

Now, tell me that's not awesome.

You're welcome.

He's there for the hockey... Really.

2010-03-01T09:18:00.003-06:00

Watch the video here and you'll see Jack Layton - leader of the left-wing NDP here in Canada, "celebrating" the hockey gold medal win.

Pay special attention the woman's arm that briefly covers his face.

Hilarious.

Sermons

2010-02-09T19:15:00.002-06:00

On the right side of your screen, you'll find a link to my church, Christian Fellowship Chapel. It's okay; you can go and click and see for yourself.

I wanted to draw your attention to two things: First, I recommend highly the sermon series our Pastor has been preaching. He's going through Genesis' creation account and I've been thoroughly blessed by what he's had to say. I recommend without reservation.
Second, you'll see a link there (also available here) to a sermon I preached. If you're interested, go ahead and listen. My question was: Is Jesus useful? The short answer is no. The long answer... can be discovered by listening.

Feedback, as always, is welcome and invited.

Swallowed

2010-01-18T11:34:00.002-06:00

When the perishable has been clothed with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality, then the saying that is written will come true: "Death has been swallowed up in victory. Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?"

Is there a more poignant rebuttal to the death of a Christian?

2009's Top Albums

2009-12-26T20:25:00.004-06:00

On a friend's blog, he was listing his favourite albums for the year 2009. As I perused his list, I realised that I either had never heard of, or disliked the entire of his list.

So, he threw down the gauntlet for me to make a similar list. Of course, he knows that I prefer the classics, so the stipulation that it had to have been released in 2009 was going to be the tough aspect - Vivaldi, ACDC, and Petra release so few albums these days, between being dead, touring the world to sold-out shows, and having retired, respectively.

Not being one to refuse a challenge, however, here is my best effort:
Trans-Siberian Orchestra - Night Castle
Muse - The Resistance
Brad Paisley - American Saturday Night
Skillet - Awake
Them Crooked Vultures - Them Crooked Vultures

Note that these aren't in any particular order.

How's that, Taylor?

Grace and Truth

2009-12-24T10:42:00.006-06:00

And the Word became flesh, and dwelt among us, and we saw His glory, glory as of the only begotten from the Father, full of grace and truth. -- John 1:14

This single verse has held my attention for weeks, now. It keeps rattling around in my head, and it seems fitting to add my comments here, and at Christmas.

This Word - Jesus - arriving in flesh and dwelling among us is the story of Christmas. Plain and simple. John's gospel doesn't talk about the Nativity, but it certain does speak about the first Advent.

If you're familiar with the previous 14 verses in this chapter, you know that this Word was with God in the beginning, and has always been God. Don't skip over that. This isn't some angel or prophet; this is the same God who formed the universe with a word, and who breathed life into humans, declaring them "very good."

And here He is, dwelling among us.

That we saw His glory - glory as of the only begotten from the Father - is the stuff of every Christmas carol you will ever sing in church. It is the first words of the angelic chorus - "Glory to God in the highest," or, as the carol says in Latin, "Gloria in excelsis Deo!" - to the shepherds. It knocks men to their knees, and renders them mute. The glory of the Almighty terrifies people.

And here it is, dwelling among us.

And the glory - glory as of the only begotten from the Father - was full of something. Two somethings. Grace and truth.

Grace has a way of knocking us down and lifting us at the same time. Grace reveals each person's desperate need because grace is unmerited, unattainable, and sufficient. We don't deserve it, we can't get it on our own, and we can't add anything to its effects. And here we have the Word dwelling among us, extending grace to everyone who would receive it.
This baby grows to be a man and tells people their sins are forgiven, and is nailed to a cross in order that mine can be forgiven as well. Unmerited favour I couldn't possibly do for myself that is cheapened by my efforts to add to it.

Truth can knock a person over and lift them at the very same time as well. Proverbs says that "The wounds of a friend can be trusted, but an enemy multiplies kisses" (Prov 27:6) and if you've been fortunate enough to have had a friend come and tell you honestly where you need to change knows exactly how amazing it feels. There is the sting of the cut, but the sweetness of the healing that follows. And if you've had an enemy flatter you until you believe the hype, you know how bitter a taste it leaves. Truth clears away falsehood, and shines a light wherever it's needed.

And grace and truth are sadly in short supply in the world. Grace is rarely extended to anyone, and truth has become a dirty word - the claim only of the arrogant. Grace never covers over sin, but forgives. And truth never turns a blind eye to sin, but calls it by name and trades the lie for itself.

But here they are, revealed in the glory of the Word become flesh - glory as of the only begotten from the Father.

Christmas-y Entry

2009-12-23T23:56:00.005-06:00

I've been reading through the Gospel of John, and I have been struck anew by this verse: "The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, "Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!" (John 1:29)

But what does that have to do with Christmas? Christmas is about Mary and Joseph and the baby in the manger, with shepherds and lowing cattle and all the rest.

Shepherds, you say?

Luke 2:8-20 details the invitation of the shepherds by the angels to see the baby. Stop for a moment and go read it. I mean it. I'll wait.

A lot of people have read this passage and said, "A-ha! You see, Jesus came first for the lowly people - the smelly shepherds who smell - and God invited them first." Sure, but why shepherds and not thieves (they were there when He was crucified, after all), or beggars, or bacon-eaters?

For the same reason you do not hire a plumber to prescribe medication for your illnesses. You hire a plumber for plumbing, and a doctor for doctoring. You bring in a shepherd for the lamb.

But not just any lamb. The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world.

"Then I saw a Lamb, looking as if it had been slain, standing in the center of the throne, encircled by the four living creatures and the elders... Then I looked and heard the voice of many angels, numbering thousands upon thousands, and ten thousand times ten thousand. They encircled the throne and the living creatures and the elders. In a loud voice they sang: "Worthy is the Lamb, who was slain, to receive power and wealth and wisdom and strength and honour and glory and praise!" Then I heard every creature in heaven and on earth and under the earth and on the sea, and all that is in them, singing: "To him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb be praise and honour and glory and power, for ever and ever!" (Rev 5:6, 9-12)

Do you think this is all some sort of funny coincidence? Did you think it was shepherds because they were conveniently located in the hills nearby? There were much poorer people who were much nearer; but they weren't shepherds.

Now, pay attention: "When they [the shepherds] had seen him [Jesus], they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them." Luke 2:17-18

Uneducated hick shepherds - still smelling like sheep - stand in the presence of the Lamb of God and spread the word, amazing everyone who hears.

And you?

This is not a post about "keeping Christ in Christmas," or boycotting the "Happy Holidays" stores; this is about the thing that should matter most by far to a Christian - spread the word concerning the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world. That's all. Spread the word. Tell everyone you know; tell people you don't know. If you do nothing else this Christmas, tell someone the whole story about the baby in the manger - he grew up, taught about the Kingdom, was crucified to pay the price for our sin - a price we could never pay and now don't have to, died, and was resurrected.

Spread the word.

Indoctrinate U

2009-11-16T14:21:00.000-06:00

This is the trailer for a movie I would very much like to see. More of my thoughts on this issue later. I'm going to let them percolate.

Our Prime Minister

2009-10-04T22:16:00.002-06:00

No, this one isn't choking protesters, but it's still pretty cool. Enjoy!

One-Eyed Man

2009-09-27T21:31:00.001-06:00

A number of years ago, my father lost the sight in his left eye. The retina detached and surgery did not help the situation, despite a lengthy and annoying recovery process. I prayed fervently that God would restore his vision, but He hasn’t yet (He still could). Then, a year after that, the retina began to detach in his other eye, and we were once again in the hospital as he underwent surgery. Of course, this time, he didn’t have a spare.

I was 23 or so at the time, a grown man with a job and all of that stuff, but sitting in my father’s hospital room as he waited for surgery, I felt very much like a little child. I struggled to understand why this was happening to my dad, and felt afraid for him and what it might be like for him if the surgery failed. My father would have been left blind and would have never seen his sons marry, his wife’s face, the smile of his grandchildren, the sunset... It was a very poignant moment and, sitting alone with him, I couldn’t fight back the tears. I asked my father, “What point is God trying to teach us with this? How is risking your sight going to glorify Him?”

My dad’s response was, “I don’t know. But I know it will.”

That response still sticks with me, and was brought to mind when I was reading John 9:1-3 - As he [Jesus] went along, he saw a man blind from birth. His disciples asked him, “Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?” “Neither this man nor his parents sinned,” said Jesus, “but this happened so that the work of God might be displayed in his life.”

I can’t tell you my father’s story; what he went through is for him to tell and not for me. But I think his response is very telling, and I was humbled to learn from it. As I have continued to learn more about God, I have learned that this is the truth: every experience - pleasant or unpleasant - will glorify God. This will happen whether we like it or not. Every experience teaches us something about who He is, what He values, and who He wants His children to be. It is up to us whether we fight it (read the rest of the story in John 9), or whether we say, “I don’t know how this is going to glorify you, God, but I trust it will and look forward to seeing it.”

There is no disembodied force at work in your life - no fate, no dumb luck - but rather, God is orchestrating and decreeing each event. You may blame Him if you wish, but that will not change the ultimate outcome: this happened so that the work of God might be displayed in your life.

Mind the Cyclist

2009-09-01T21:14:00.003-06:00

Well, I learned that if a cyclist runs a red light and crosses your path, you'll probably hit him. If you (and he) are fortunate, he'll walk away with only a few bruises and some stiffness. Sure, your car will have some damage and you'll smash his bike, but if he can walk away from that, everything's good.

Sorry you ran the red light, Giovanni. I'm glad you're not dead. I would have felt bad about that, even though it was entirely your fault. I hope you'll pause the next time you're so tempted, because I don't know if your luck will hold out; next time, you might not meet a driver with my skill.

Oh, and if you're a witness to such a thing, pausing to shout obscenities at the cyclist is not a productive effort. He's already been hit by a car; how much worse do you believe you can make him feel? And even though he ran the red light, I'd say getting hit by a car is punishment enough; your scorn doesn't add any heat at all.

End of an Era

2009-09-01T21:02:00.002-06:00

Goodbye, old friend.

I feel a little silly writing this, but I'm going to anyway, and hang the consequences. It's about my car. My beloved 1998 Corolla... 5 speed, ruby pearl paint, 8-ball shiftknob... Trogdor sticker in the window. Martha (short for a Gaelic word for "survivor") was a beaut of an automobile; she was reliable, practical, and just sexy enough. Admittedly, she was something of a magnet for destruction (thus her name), but I loved that car.

Obviously I know that this was simply an object. It was a car. Despite the personification I might ascribe to it, it was inorganic. Still, she was Martha. There's a part of me that thinks she liked me best and worked best for me.

I drove that car everywhere. Martha'd been to Milwaukee a number of times, to Chicago, Moose Jaw, Calgary, Minneapolis, Saskatoon, Edmonton... that car had seen a lot of the midwest. I took my wife on dates in that car; I took uncountable youth to events or drove them home in that car; I went to football games with friends; I drove people to the hospital. If it was a major moment in my adult life, chances are that Martha was involved somehow. She never died on me, never cost me much money. Snow didn't stop her. The cold didn't stop her (I once left it in temperatures of -50C with the windchill for 8 hours, without the block heater plugged in, and she started up like it was a warm summer's day).

Sadly, it was hail that finally put her to rest. Admittedly, she would have continued on (and I like to think she will), pocked and dinged, but I just couldn't keep her. Laurel and I are hoping to get a new one, and the payout from insurance was good. So, I had to sell her.

Last night Laurel and I took a long drive, to say goodbye, I guess. We drove to places we liked going, and I drove familiar streets and appreciated the smooth shifting and speedy acceleration. It was nice. Sort of like a wake, I guess. I dropped Martha off this morning, handed over the keys, and got on the bus to go to work.

Anyway, it's the end of an era.

June 13, 2009

2009-08-16T23:21:00.018-06:00

I woke up with enough time to do everything I needed to do. It was not a day to miss anything, signified by the large sign on the inside of my outer door. I took care of the things that needed taking care of, and then hopped into my rental car and headed for the church.

I was first to arrive at the Chapel, which is appropriate. Actually, the minister was waiting for me. It was the first beautiful day of the summer, but it could have been raining down fire mixed with hail and I wouldn’t have noticed; I was getting married! But before that could happen, I still had a number of things to do...

Well, all those tasks faded away when I realised that guests were arriving and I still hadn’t changed into my tux. Yes, many of them were greeted by the sight of me in a white Tshirt and plaid shorts. So, my groomsmen and I got changed quickly, and then it was time for the whole thing to begin. The minster (Chad) prayer with me and my groomsmen and then they went to where they needed to be, and I stood in the room and waited, surrounded by all the things from the stage we had removed.

Laurel and I wanted hymns. We love hymns, and it’s a good way to get everyone to find a seat without having to say as much. We picked two: “Great is Thy Faithfulness,” and “To God be the Glory,” both of which we want to be themes in our marriage. If we accomplish nothing else, we will give God glory because of His faithfulness. I waited in the room for the first song to be done, and then Chad and I went into the sanctuary to wait, and sing. I love singing, and I loved singing at the front while I waited. It was amazing to see - and hear! - the Chapel so full of people. It’s been years since it was that full, I think, and I was humbled to see so many people... and nervous. Very, very nervous.

The hymns ended and my parents walked up the aisle. I hugged them both and then along came Laurel’s mom and brother. Following them, the groomsmen with their bridesmaids. I waited. I stood there, watching them come, smiling like crazy. Laurel wanted a specific piece played for her processional, and our lovely and talented friend Beckie played. But Beckie is a perfectionist (it goes well with her talent), and insisted that the song would either be 20 seconds or the full 2 minutes and not in between. So, we waited for 1 full minute before Laurel appeared.

I don’t know if you’ve ever done that. I don’t know if you’ve stood in front of 250 people and just waited. We knew there would be the wait, but the guests didn’t. I started to see some concerned looks and puzzled expressions. I just smiled, trying to help them all see that it was perfectly fine. In the meantime, I waited and prayed for strength.

The door at the back opened and I saw my bride. It was the first time I’d seen her that day, and the first time I’d seen the dress. And she looked stunning, beautiful, gorgeous, radiant... and every other synonym. My breath caught in my throat and I felt like I was choking. I wanted to cry and laugh and breathe and run to get her all at once. But, I stood. My dad mouthed the word, “breathe,” and I did. Sweet oxygen... So I didn’t pass out, but I stood and waited and fought back tears.

I took my place beside her and our parents gave their blessing on our marriage. Up on stage we went. After that, it was mostly a blur. I remember almost not making it through the vows because of my emotions, and I remember that Larry sang “The Wellspring” by Steve Bell and a more perfect song there wasn’t. We kneeled and were prayed over by Chad. We kissed, and then were announced. We left to the Hallelujah Chorus.We met people outside of our little church and took pictures with anyone who wanted one. People on Osborne honked for us, and I just stood there grinning like a lovestruck fool. I was. I still am. I look forward to saying the same on our 25th anniversary.

After a time, we hopped into her uncle Allen’s restored Model T (gorgeous car, and he generously offered to drive us around) and we paused for more pictures. We drove to a nearby city park for a few pictures. No one gets mad at a Model T, no matter how many kilometers slower than the speed limit it’s going. How do you get mad at a car built in 1915, and which carries a new bride? Not possible.

The reception was a blur. There were speeches and friends and family and food and... I didn’t get to see everyone I wanted. I thought I would be able to, but I just couldn’t. It was a lunch reception and featured chicken fingers (that was what Laurel wanted, so we had it), and it was everything I wanted.

We left and took pictures with our wedding party. They were amazing throughout the day. I couldn’t have asked for a better group of guys. They drove for us, were amazingly good sports through the afternoon of pictures, and seemed to have a good time. They got into things, and made suggestions for pictures. I was and am humbled to have such men in my life, and even moreso when I think of the other people I could have asked if I’d been allowed to have 6 groomsmen.

That was my wedding day. This isn’t a very good description of everything that happened, so if you have a memory, why not share it? Help me see it through your eyes.

Wait... What?

2009-08-14T23:21:00.004-06:00

If you would like to watch a video that will make your head hurt a little, give this gem a try. Allow me to summarise, to save you the time:

In the book of Mark, according to the King James version of the Bible, there are 678 verses. In the book of Mark, according to the New International version of the Bible, there are 678 verses, but there is a note that says that the earliest and most reliable manuscripts do not include Mark 16:9-20. So, the pastor says, if the NIV says that the most reliable manuscripts don't contain those verses, it shouldn't either. Therefore, we subtract those 12 verses from the total of 678 and we get....

I'll let you do the math...

...Yes, 666 verses in the NIV book of Mark. And this is how we know that the NIV is a Satanic version of the Bible.

You can't tell, but I'm clapping sarcastically.

Well done, detective pastor man. Great work in deciphering an arbitrary numbering system designed to help those of us who don't speak Greek sort through the different verses, and realising that it's the Devil's own work.

Know what? There's a community club near my house whose address is 666 Silverstone; does he believe that Satan is worshipped there? Would he refuse to take his kids to that place to play hockey because of the address? - another arbitrary numbering system!? Or what if his bill comes out to $6.66 with taxes? Will he refuse to pay that because clearly that money is going right to the Devil himself?

And another thing: assuming I were the Devil and I had arranged for this translation to be made so that it would point people towards me and away from God, why would I ever leave my signature all over it? The Devil is not that stupid, misguided pastor fellow. It just doesn't make sense, even if we allow your original assumption (that the NIV is Satanic) to be true.

Listen, if I tried to pull something like that while preaching, my father would walk up to the pulpit and drag me off the stage personally. And he wouldn't be the only one, just the fastest.

I'm not going to waste more time trying to wrap my head around the idiotic question of how many verses are there in Mark; I'm instead going to focus on two pieces of advice. I will leave them for you, first in the NIV and then in the KJV, so that worshippers of Satan and God can each understand in their own languages (said with tongue firmly in cheek)...

Titus 3:9 (NIV) - But avoid foolish controversies and genealogies and arguments and quarrels about the law, because these are unprofitable and useless.
(KJV) - But avoid foolish questions, and genealogies, and contentions, and strivings about the law; for they are unprofitable and vain.

2 Tim 2:23 (NIV) - Don't have anything to do with foolish and stupid arguments, because you know they produce quarrels.
(KJV) - But foolish and unlearned questions avoid, knowing that they do gender strifes.

Delicious

2009-08-13T23:31:00.003-06:00

A little while ago, I made pulled pork sandwiches in the slow cooker (thank you, whoever gave that to us - it's written down somewhere but that's my wife department), and they were so good I feel compelled to share it here. Enjoy!

3-4lbs Boneless pork shoulder butt roast, trimmed
1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
1/2 cup ketchup
1/4 cup fancy molasses
1/4 cup water
3 tbsp dijon mustard
1 tbsp worcestershire sauce
1 tsp pepper

Put roast into slow cooker
combine remaining ingredients in a medium bowl. Pour over roast. Cover.
Cook on low for 9-10 hours, or on high for 4.5-5 hours.
Transfer roast to large plate. Skim and discard any fat from surface of liquid in cooker.
Shred pork with two forks. Return pork to sauce. Stir well. Serves 12.

I went and added "some" cayenne to the mix, too. I would also not add as much molasses to the mixture. I like it hot, not super sweet. Otherwise, this recipe was awesome, and I leave it with you to try.

Gender Identity: The Mixup

2009-08-11T18:06:00.003-06:00

Imagine that you don't know me. You don't know anything about me except my name (as Chris), until one day you meet my very good friend, Sean. Sean is a guy I've known for almost 20 years, and he knows me quite well. Well, in talking about me, Sean starts to use gender-specific pronouns. "I went to the football game with Chris, and he sure had a good time," he might say, or, "Chris and I were talking and I said to him, 'You've got to see this movie,' and he said to me, 'Sounds good.'" (Forgive the cheesy dialogue; Sean is much more eloquent than that.)

Given all that you know about me (my name, and the fact that Sean uses male pronouns to refer to me) what would you estimate my gender to be?

Well, unless you've recently suffered repeated blows to the head, you would correctly believe that I am a male - or, that I have made it apparent that my pronouns of choice are the male ones. You would not be wise to start referring to me as a "she," as I am not.

So, why do so many people (and I mean liberal theologians) persist in doing the same to God?

Before we go any further, I am not saying God is a man. I am in fact not saying God is even male (I'll leave the distinction for the philosophers to sort out later). This is about reference. Your source for information about me was someone who knows me very well. The information he provided about me to you was that male pronouns are appropriate to refer to me.

So, when faced with the constant flow of male pronouns used to describe God, we look at who's using them. I could mention the innumerable people throughout history who have referred to God as "He," but I really only need to mention one: Jesus.

Yes, Jesus. Jesus constantly referred to God as "Father," "Abba," "He," "Him," etc. If you believe what the Bible says about Jesus, then it seems He knows God very well (being one part of the trinity, etc). If you accept that Jesus knows God well, why would you think His use of male pronouns is in some way incorrect? Do you claim to know God better than He?

Some might argue that it's merely a matter of Jesus using "He" in order to appease and/or relate to the people of His time. Poppycock! The peoples in Jesus' time and place were very familiar with the notion of goddesses; and it wasn't like Jesus was crucified for getting the gender wrong. Some others might say it's a matter of the translation process being done in such a way as to perpetuate the male dominated hierarchy. If so, why would you believe anything in there? If every pronoun was deliberately made male to further some oppression, I should think every should be suspicious for the same reason.

Some might argue that it doesn't matter. God is God, after all. He's not a created being and since He has no gender of His own as we understand it, any pronoun ought to work (except "it," since God is a person of sorts). "He" should be just as valid an option as "she" and Jesus was probably just choosing the one that He as a human identified with more closely.
The "who cares" response is one that I've really enjoyed using, and in lots of cases, it can help sort through the important things from the unimportant. But Jesus certainly seemed to care; He used only male language to describe God, and if there's one thing about Jesus: he wasn't afraid to ruffle some feathers if it was the truth.

Maybe this is not a big deal. Maybe there's only three people who will ever read this who will ever come across someone who refers to the God of the Bible as a she. Maybe only person who ever reads this will be one of those people. I would love to know the reasons, if I haven't already guessed it. But I think it's important to know things about God, and to know them to be true. What we know of God, through the words of Jesus, is that male pronouns are the ones that Jesus uses to refer to Him. If it's good enough for Jesus, I say it's good enough for me. And, what's more, to do otherwise is to disregard the language of the person who knows God best.

A Grave Misnomer

2009-08-06T21:21:00.003-06:00

A friend of mine is heavily involved in a group called the Student Christian Movement, or SCM. I was intrigued by this group, being one who is a Christian and who works extensively with students, and who was involved in a few Christian Student groups during his time as a student.

I regularly encounter groups and individuals that don’t agree with me, and I get along fine with them. I challenge positions with respect, allow for conversation and dialogue, and attempt to have them get to a place where they agree with me at the end. That last might sound odd, but let me ask you: why would I believe a thing if I thought it was wrong? And, if I believed X to be correct, and you held Y, what sort of kind fellow am I to let you wallow in wrongness?

I don’t often encounter groups who are so wrongheaded as the SCM, however. I read some of their blog, and especially this post. Feel free to take a moment and read it if you’d like, but I think you’ll agree: this group is in dire need of a name change. To continue to include “Christian” in their name is akin to me referring to myself as a, “proud Mexican.” I am not, and neither are they.

From the outset, their complete and total acceptance of that heresy known as “liberation theology” is a bad place from which to begin. Basically, liberation theologians teach that Christ’s primary reason for coming to earth was to free us; free us from the chains of class, capitalism, oppression, and injustice. I have no real love for any of those things, but it misses the point entirely. Christ came to set the captive free, it’s true, but the captor is not each other, but the power of sin in our lives that leads to spiritual death. His death and resurrection did not end class warfare or any of those things, but it did end sin’s hold on our lives, and allowed us to be forgiven completely and entirely by an almighty and perfectly holy God.

It doesn’t get better for the SCM. The writer begins, “The SCM isn’t a proselytizing group. This is not Campus Crusade for Christ, or anything remotely like that.” Too bad for the SCM, I say. But more than that, it’s entirely a lie. They may not evangelise for Christ, but a little later, we’re treated to this: “Note: while the SCM includes self-defined evangelicals, I do not mean fundamentalists. If you hold conservative views on homosexuality or politics, or if you think that you’re on a higher spiritual plane than agnostics or pagans, then you’ll probably find yourself very uncomfortable in the SCM,” and then a little later, “At one point, one of the conference people quipped that every national conference should make it a goal to convert at least one participant to queerness. (At first I thought he said “convert at least one participant to Christ.” But…uh…we’re not that kind of group.) It wasn’t uncommon for some of us to join in light-hearted chants of “One in ten is not enough! Recruit! Recruit!”’

So, while it’s completely out of the realm of possibilities for this group to try to win converts to Christianity (like it might suggest in their name, it seems entirely acceptable - and laudable! - them to convert people to queerness? I don’t believe this was being said with a literal understanding in mind (converting someone to identifying as LBTQ runs contrary to their assertion that it’s not a choice but a genetic thing), but notice that the writer began to object when he misheard the quip and thought it was supporting Christian evangelism! If you’re a “fundamentalist” (with all of the scary connotations of a literal Bible that might entail), you’re not welcome within the SCM. I love how tolerant and welcoming and openminded they are, don’t you?

I was disappointed to read all of this, and that disappointment didn’t shrink as I continued. I’ll let you do so if you wish, but it’s nothing worth repeating, and certainly isn’t anything new.

I may post more on this group, but I might instead just pick out weird pieces of bad theology. I don’t hate this group, nor the members thereof, but I feel bad for them. They have attached a name to their group that would not approve in the least - there are no Hitler Jewish Centres, after all - and are leading people away from the Gospel of Christ that leads to salvation. That Gospel, by the way, can be found in a very well written piece, found here.

The List

2009-07-14T19:36:00.005-06:00

I've been mentally compiling a list of bands that I think are overrated. Now, there are a tonne of terrible bands out there, but even if they're popular, I'm not going to consider them. This is a list of bands that seemingly everyone out there can't get enough of; bands that every other band cite as being an "influence" on their music; bands that make me shake my head, no matter how many times I try to listen to them. Also, just because the band has made this list doesn't preclude the possibility that they have a couple of songs I enjoy - even a blind squirrel gets a nut once in awhile. It also doesn't mean the artists are not musically talented, only that they can't seem to apply that talent into anything worthwhile.

So, below you'll find my partial list, along with something of an explanation of why they made the list. It's not in any particular order.

1) The White Stripes
Every album I try to listen to from these two makes me cringe. It's almost as if Jack White sets out to just make random noises to accompany his whiny voice singing basically incomprehensible lyrics. I like three or four of their songs, but I can't sit through more than three songs in a row on any given album.

2) The Tragically Hip
If I ever become as whiny as Gord Downey... And there comes a point at which a songwriter moves from being a poet to being nonsensical. Every Canadian seems to love these guys, and they are on the radio far more often than they deserve. Aside from "So Hard Done By," and, "Scared," this band hasn't produced a single song that can keep me from changing the station to anything - even country.

3) The Beatles
This might get me lynched, but I simply cannot listen to this band. I know, I know; there will never be another band who has as wide an influence as the Beatles. Women passed out at the sight of them, men wished they could be them, and there was no other band that caused the level of hysteria that the Fab Four from Liverpool managed. That said, they drive me nuts. I don't even really know why except that I find myself bored by their music. Yes, bored.

4) The Rolling Stones
Has an uglier group of people ever been assembled into one musical group? Okay, that's not why they're overrated, but it's something I noticed. Take away the two biggest hits ("Sympathy for the Devil", and "Paint it Black"), and nix my favourite Stones song ("Play With Fire"), and I do not see the attraction.

5) Pink Floyd
Only one band can make my finger hit the next station button on my radio faster than Pink Floyd, and they're next (not the band Next, next in the list). If someone offered to pay for my ticket, and give me $100, I would decline the opportunity to see them live. If I won their discography, I would sell it to whoever would pay for it. If Pink Floyd offered to buy me supper, I would gladly eat with them, thank them for the meal, and make my way to the exit as quickly as possible. One DJ on the classic rock station loves Pink Floyd and won't shut up about them. Their guitar work is boring, drumming is average, lyrics are preachy without being catchy, and aside from the neato synchronisation of Dark Side of the Moon with Wizard of Oz, there is nothing noteworthy about this band.

6) Rush
Canadian content makes this troupe ubiquitous on the radio. All I need to do is hear Geddy Lee's womanly voice piercing my skull and I'm tempting to throw my radio out of the window. Alex Lifeson is a decent enough guitarist (and a good sport, a la Trailer Park Boys), but I'm not worried about talent. Someone provide me one example of a song that makes sense musically; even the Guitar Hero 2 song "YYZ" can't string together a solo that pleases my ears. And thank you, Rush, I get it: you're atheists. I appreciate the constant reminder of your faith. Now shut up and retire... please!

So, there we have it. I feel better for this list, and so I leave it to you: other bands that should be on here? Perhaps you'd like to argue with me and change my mind. Feel free to leave comments below!

Silence

2009-07-03T15:33:00.002-06:00

I've been absent. Well, not absent from real life exactly, but busy with things that have kept me from writing here.

The following things have happened since last I wrote:
1) My apartment has been packed up, ready to move tomorrow;
2) Laurel's apartment has been packed up, ready to move tomorrow;
3) I have been looking for a new job;
4) Summer is nice and I like being outside;
5) I had the flu for 24 hours. I did not like that;

That isn't a chronological list. I'm just saying... I'll be back when I get internet in my new apartment. Basically, don't expect me until Monday or so, assuming everyone can get on board with the program (MTS, I'm looking in your direction).

I have many thoughts, too! I have lots of thoughts about popular culture, specifically. We'll see how it all goes.

If you would, pray that I'll have patience as I look for work, and that I'll be successful in finding something I enjoy. I know God has a job out there for me, I just need to trust Him as I wait and look for it. That will lead me to more fun stuff about why I'm a Calvinist again (although as a Calvinist, I can say I never was anything but; I just didn't realise it...).

I'm Back, with Bling!

2009-06-23T08:12:00.005-06:00

Well, it's not really "bling" in the traditional sense of the word (can there be a traditional sense of a made-up slang word?), but it is more jewellery than I usually wear. Yes, gentle readers, I've got a wedding ring on.

Now, some of you sharp cookies (boy, that's a bad image... imagine eating a sharp cookie! So delicious, but so pointy! You'd have to really want it) will therefore clue in to my changed marital status. Yep, I'm married!

It happened on June 13, 2009. Laurel and I stood at the front of our church and, in front of a building full of family and friends - but more importantly, in front of God - made a covenant to be man and wife. It was thrilling and exhilarating and terrifying to do this, but there is no doubt about it; best decision I've ever made, second only to my decision to follow Christ.

It was humbling to see so many people there to support us, and to witness this covenant, and to promise to hold us accountable to a Godly standard of marriage. I take that seriously, even when I'm a guest and not a participant, and so I hope they will take it seriously too.

We left for our honeymoon the next day, and spent 7 days in Florida that were relaxing, exciting, tiring, and refreshing. It was beautiful there, and the time we spent together was beautiful in its own right. We did theme parks (a shared pleasure of ours!), restaurants, the beach (I hate beaches, but I would go anywhere with her, if she asked... and the beach was very nice too), shopping, etc. We spent time getting to know each other again as the stress from planning a wedding unravelled and took with it short tempers, constant details, and conversation monopolising that became a part of our relationship in the last couple of months before our wedding. It was weird to share a bed with a person (I occasionally snore, and she's a light sleeper - she tapped me on the face to wake me up one night at 3am... what a lovely way to wake up!) but we'll get the hang of that.

All in all, I'm enjoying being married. The monumental weight of the decision isn't lost on me in the haze of lovey-dovey feelings; there are times when I am stunned I am married, but that's how it should be. If you get married and don't think to yourself at times, "What the crap did I just do? I'm married to her for life!" then I think you might have made that decision too rashly. The point is, though, that those thoughts fade away, and I'm reminded of just what this all means: I am joined, not saddled; partnered, not stuck; one flesh, not leashed. It is an opportunity to practice grace, and to have it extended to me. It is a place to learn to love without reservation, and be loved. It's a relationship with a mystery attached (according to the apostle Paul), that begs to be explored. Who wouldn't want that?

God's plan of marriage is perfect. Why should that surprise anyone?

New blog

2009-05-28T22:34:00.003-06:00

I've started a new blog that I hope will positively affect my weight loss goals. If you want to follow it, you are welcome to. You'll find it here.

We'll see what happens, won't we?

Discuss

2009-05-15T00:40:00.001-06:00

What would you do if you weren't afraid?

Worst Uncle Ever...

2009-05-13T10:04:00.004-06:00

...I just might be, but I’m also very new to the game, so I’m entitled to drop the ball (but not the baby, apparently!) every so often.

Yes, I’ve become an uncle. For some of you, this is not news, but I haven’t written about it, so I’m going to.

On Tuesday, 28 April, 2009, my first niece was born. Her name is Clara Rae Harwood, and she was 7lbs or something. I’m male, so I don’t notice things like that. Basically, that she is healthy and everyone’s fine is enough details for me.

This is the first child for my brother and his wife, and my parents’ first grandchild. Those four are absolutely, beside-themselves, smitten with this little girl, and it’s hard to resist. She is quite adorable, and seems to be a good-natured baby.

I haven’t met her yet, but I will in just under a month. I’ve seen only a small portion of the millions of pictures my dad took while he and my mom were out in Ottawa with them. Here are two:

This is my brother with his daughter.

And this is her, smiling while she sleeps.

See? Hard to not think that’s adorable.

I have to admit that I feel some pressure to be particularly eloquent about this little girl, and what she means for my family. This is my blog, after all, and I have some small ability with words; I should be able to wax poetic about her.

I don’t feel like it’ll do her justice. Instead, all I have is gratitude to God for her health and safe arrival; for her parents and grandparents who love Him with everything they are, and who will stop at nothing to make sure she is surrounded with the knowledge of her Saviour; pride in my brother for becoming a father who knows just how seriously he must take this responsibility, and for loving the weight of it; excitement to meet her, and share in some small way in her growth.

I’d leave her with this: Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart. Then you will win favour and a good name in the sight of God and man. Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight. Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD and shun evil (Proverbs 3:3-7).

Welcome to the family, Clara.

Dear Anonymous

2009-04-26T12:18:00.003-06:00

Well, I've turned off the feature that allows "anonymous" to post comments. I just prefer to have names (even fake ones) attached to comments, is all. Pardon the inconvenience.

Please, though, feel free - no, feel invited - to continue to interact with things that pique your interest, even if you think I'm completely and 100% wrong.

Stupid People

2009-04-26T12:11:00.002-06:00

Read this article about people breaking into the Humane Society's shelters to steal pets.

Apparently, they object to the idea that the HS has bills to pay, and think pet adoption or housing (in the case of a lost pet, recovered by the HS) should be free.

But this is my favourite part, right near the end:
...[S[pokeswoman Gail MacMillan says people have threatened to force their way in to steal back animals.
"People do get angry," she says. "They object to the fact that we're charging for these animals and mandating spaying and neutering. They're not thinking rationally, or they're just plain stupid maybe."

They're not thinking clearly, or they're just plain stupid maybe. Thank you, Ms MacMillan, for your candour. Really, you made my day a little brighter.

Now, if only we could get someone to talk to the horde of politicians, union leaders, CEOs, CFOs, etc who are all "just plain stupid maybe." The world would be a better place.

Also, don't steal from the Humane Society!

I never thought I'd have to say that...

How to Read

2009-04-25T10:02:00.002-06:00

Read this article for a very good example of how to read with no intention of understanding.

Let’s play along for a second, and I’ll break down the arguments presented.

Group 1 includes A, B, and C
Group 2 includes blue, red, and yellow
Group 3 includes square, circle, triangle, and vertical line
99% of people agree that Group 1 is laudable and desirable
99% of people agree that Group 2 is vile and undesirable
People are not agreed on the desirability of Group 3
Therefore, people who do not approve of Group 3 equate Groups 2 and 3.

This is not a good argument.

The article talks about how Mr. Dalton is a homophobe because he is putting homosexuality into the same category as paedophilia, rape, drunk driving, and incest. But, to go back to our example, that is to say he is putting a vertical line in with the colours. His comment was actually that there are three sorts of moral issues: 1) conduct we all affirm and approve of; 2) conduct we all deny and disapprove of, and; 3) conduct people are not agreed about. He put homosexuality into the last category, along with adultery and gambling.

Let’s be clear about what Mr. Dalton did not say: a vertical line equals red.

It seems that it is not Mr. Dalton who is equating homosexuality and rape, but rather, Mr. Herbert - the fellow who stirred this whole thing up with a 12 year old email. Mr. Dalton made no such argument, but Mr. Herbert certainly has. He’s attributed to his political opponent an argument that the opponent never claimed, and then has lambasted him for it. It seems to me that we don’t put up with such mindless rhetoric in any other issue except for one’s views on homosexuality.

It doesn’t even matter what side of this issue you find yourself - you can believe that homosexuality is as natural and good as breathing or you can think it is abominable - this is bad reasoning and doesn’t deserve to find its way into print.

The Future, and Me

2009-04-24T23:29:00.003-06:00

As some of you are aware, my position at the U of M is not a permanent one, but a contracted one. Unlike my previous jobs, I am not an independent contracted employee, but a member of the union. As such, when the contract with the union is up, it needs to be reviewed and then re-staffed. This is one of those times.

So, I've reapplied for my job. I have an interview on Wednesday, in which I will do my best to make it as hard as possible for someone else to get picked. That is, after all, the point of a job interview.

People ask me if I'm scared or nervous or anxious about what is coming. After all, it could be the case that I don't get hired for this role, which would mean I would need a new job, and need to find a new place to live. Add to those pursuits the upcoming change in my marital status, and that could make June a very stressful month indeed.

I'm not scared. I'm not nervous. I'm not worried. I'm not anxious.

Now, one might reasonably conclude that I am confident that I'll be rehired for this position. After all, if I believe that I'll be getting this job, then the interview process is certainly nothing to be concerned about.

I have no such confidence. In fact, I am leaning toward skepticism that I'll be hired again. This isn't false modesty or fishing for a compliment; I simply don't feel certain that I'll get the job.

So, all that in mind, why am I not worried? Why does this not stress me out?

It’s because I know who I am, and I know who I serve (1 John 3:1).
It’s because I have been given a promise that God will always be with me, and will never fail me (Heb 13:5).
It’s because I am told that the Creator and Sustainer of the Universe has my needs in mind, and will make sure I have the things I need (Luke 12:22-31).
It’s because I believe that peace which outstrips my comprehension is given freely by God (Phil 4:7).

Why worry? I’ll get the job or I won’t. They’ll want me back or they won’t. In either case, I will do what I can to glorify God, in every way I can. If that means moving to another job, I will. If that means working here again, and doing something different in how I did the job, I will. God has blessed me with talent, skill, and education; and even if I was an incompetent oaf who barely passed school, God does amazing things with flawed people. It is not my awesomeness that gives me peace, it is His.

I am no fool. I am not naive. I will need a job of some kind, in order to provide shelter and food - I suspect Laurel would insist on eating, and not getting rained on - but He has promised that I will have my needs met. Who can make a promise like that except God?

So, if you’re wondering what I’ll be doing next year, the only answer I have for you is completely independent of who signs my paycheques: By His grace and strength, I will be doing everything I can to glorify Him, and make Him known to the people in my life. The rest is just details.

I'll Celebrate!

2009-04-22T13:56:00.004-06:00

I'll celebrate Earth Day 24 hours after the Earth celebrates Chris Day. We've done about the same amount for each other, after all.

Do You Have Facebook Manners?

2009-04-20T14:43:00.004-06:00

This amused me.

Apologies

2009-04-20T10:39:00.003-06:00

My last post about the baseball player generated some unpleasant feedback; unpleasant and convicting.

I was not very respectful, and I said things in poor taste.

I am sorry, and I will do my best to make sure that I do not repeat it.

Thank you to those who had the concern for me and my witness enough to say something. Proverbs 27:17 and all...

I'm Peter

2009-04-10T22:48:00.000-06:00

One of the people in the Bible that I think is most often misunderstood by Christians is Peter. I wrote before about Thomas, and I mentioned that I identify with that particular disciple. Well, I identify with Peter even moreso. Unfortunately, it often isn’t in the ways I wish I did. But I think that Christians judge Peter harshly, and especially at Easter time.

Peter was a passionate man. He rushed out of a boat to walk on the water with Jesus (Matt 14:28-31), rushed to declare that though everyone else turn away from Christ, he wouldn’t (Matt 26:33, 35), rushed to Jesus’ defense in the Garden of Gethsemane (Jn 18:10), and spoke before multitudes of people at Pentecost (Acts 2).

Of course, when we think of Peter at Easter, we think most of his denial of Christ in the courtyard. Luke records it this way:
Then seizing [Jesus], they led him away and took him into the house of the high priest. Peter followed at a distance. But when they had kindled a fire in the middle of the courtyard and had sat down together, Peter sat down with them. A servant girl saw him seated there in the firelight. She looked closely at him and said, This man was with him. But he denied it. “Woman, I don't know him,” he said. A little later someone else saw him and said, “You also are one of them.” “Man, I am not!” Peter replied. About an hour later another asserted, “Certainly this fellow was with him, for he is a Galilean.” Peter replied, “Man, I don't know what you're talking about!” Just as he was speaking, the cock crowed. The Lord turned and looked straight at Peter. Then Peter remembered the word the Lord had spoken to him: Before the cock crows today, you will disown me three times. And he went outside and wept bitterly.

In my imagination, I see Peter standing there in the courtyard, the voices of his accusers fading away into soft buzzing as he locks eyes with the Son of God. In the movie that plays in my head, Peter suffers from complete tunnel vision; all he can see is Jesus, and that knowing look. Then comes the weight, and that sick feeling that comes from realising what he’s done. In the movie that plays in my head, everything around Peter stops having any sort of impact on him. Maybe someone grabs his cloak, maybe their voices get louder, maybe a guard comes over to see what’s going on; none of that matters. Peter has done the thing he promised he would die before he did.

And Jesus knows. And Peter knows that Jesus knows.

Too often, Christians look down our noses at the man. Surely I wouldn’t deny Christ, we say, I would have acknowledged that I’m His follower and I wouldn’t have run away.

I put it to you that it is easier to deny Jesus than you might think. Every time I refuse to live to His standard because I am worried about what someone might think, I deny being Christ’s. Every compromise when it comes to matters of morality is a claim to not know Him. Every sin in my life that goes unnoticed by me and unforgiven by God is another step away from Him.

We read that Peter leaves, and bitterly weeps. It is here that I can identify with him. At least, I hope I can. I hope I can identify with the heartsick weeping that should follow my sin. I hope I can identify with the feeling of disappointment in myself every time I deny Christ as Lord by my actions, and by my inaction. But too often my heart is calloused to sin. Too often, I say a prayer with my lips and the words never touch my heart. Too often, I simply leave the courtyard and do nothing. Too often my sin doesn’t break my heart the way it should. Too often, I look into the eyes of Jesus from across the yard, and simply shrug.

Denying Christ doesn’t happen just when it comes down to whether I live or die; it’s about how I live, and to what I’ve died.

Do I live to the standard that God calls me? Have I died to my bad deeds, and my good ones? Do I identify myself as dwelling in Christ, and in searching after His heart? Does sin in my life cause me to weep? Does it bring me to my knees in repentance?

I don’t know exactly what Peter went through after that. I figure he spent the next two days crying until he had no more tears and there was simply that empty sadness that makes you feel hollow, inconsolable. But he rejoins the other disciples, and he’s one of the first who is told about the empty tomb. In fact, he’s mentioned by name as someone who needs to know (Mark 16:7). The next time we see Peter, he’s running to the empty tomb.
I figure he thinks the news he’s heard is too good to be true; or, that maybe, if it is true, he can be forgiven. He denied knowing the Messiah, who forgives sins as if He was personally sinned against - and why shouldn’t He, since He is God after all? So, even if Peter cannot have the close relationship they’d had, maybe he’ll just hear the words, “Your sins are forgiven. Go in peace.”

That moment of forgiveness is so desperately sweet because I understand the bitterness of the sin. I have denied Christ in public, and in private. I have sinned when I swore I would not. The story of Peter in the courtyard is the one of me in my living room, out with friends, at work; everywhere I deny Jesus with my lifestyle. Fortunately, the one I deny doesn’t treat me the way I deserve, and instead extends grace and forgiveness to me, just like He did to Peter on the beach (John 21:15-19).

And this is the beauty of Peter’s story; it is of failure and forgiveness. And in that, it is my story. It can be yours, too, if it is not already.

Goodbye, Weak

2009-03-26T22:47:00.002-06:00

It is my experience that people either love or hate Winnipeg. There is very little middle ground. I meet very few people who are indifferent about Winnipeg.

Me, I love Winnipeg. There isn't anywhere in Canada I would rather live. Members of the hating group think I'm crazy, and people who love Winnipeg simply nod knowingly.

I have a theory about why some people hate Winnipeg. It's a little controversial, but here it is: You have to be hardy to live in Winnipeg. The haters simply can't handle it. That's all there is to my theory.

The weather is every possible extreme short of earthquakes and fiery hail. It snows like crazy, is cold enough to kill penguins, is blazing hot, has floods/tornadoes/amazing thunderstorms... If you're not hardy, you don't make it.

But there are those of us who take the weather as a personal challenge from God. We are the hardy ones who simply put on a hat and some gloves when the penguins start carking it. We are the ones who move to the shade to play football when the tar in the road is melty. We are the ones who can smell a storm coming... and it smells like victory.

For us, Winnipeg is a proving ground.

For the rest, Winnipeg is just too much to handle.

Stop complaining about the weather, you sissies!

Lost in Translation

2009-03-23T22:57:00.001-06:00

My previous post was so much fun, I decided to repeat the process with the same post, but into Chinese and then back. Enjoy!

By short form
Because I have not posted in the recent two weeks, I calculate the human who I might as well seize achieve the normal level certainly (accidentally to read this's anybody).

1) The work still progressed smoothly. I will enjoy the work and hope next year. I have 2-3 formidable fear events to come out, and I thought that the people quite pull out regarding this. Tomorrow evening will be the champion first every year University institute rock paper scissors competition. The long title is intentionally. I make it to look like a boxing evening; Music and prize and entire item matter. I even was me to think that was quite sweet spoils of war. Perhaps I even obtain picture its here.
1a) Said that I have not been stimulated to truly apply again for mine next year's work. Because the position signs jointly according to the contract with M U, I will probably apply again, when contract conclusion. When I knew when me has done a good work, I also knew that I was possibly better have done, some I more experiences. I am only become am good because of him and every year's work these people one; I knew that next year I will be better RLC.

2) The wedding ceremony plans very well also tick-tock makes noise. We have been scheduled regarding this with the grecian laurel our honeymoon which stimulates. She also obtains a ton attendance wedding ceremony shower (gentlemen, can I obtain “amen” about not to attend these?)Hopes them with her. My best man's evening dress was confirmed completely, and they must the present obtain the survey, lazy gits. I am responsible to confirm the menu; I in fact enjoy duty. It does not pay great attention me very.

3) The marital plan progress is smooth, is also. Sees by me has not obtained is too silly, I was am stimulated to pass every day my latter half of one's life and this woman. She is astonishing, and I know her frequently. I learned her to like the valentine day recently. I thought that she is indifferently about the entire item matter, like I am. Then, I must remember that small detail…

4) We have bought the bed. . Grecian laurel, although, is the envy, because she has not obtained in it sleeps, and I. It is a formidable fear bed, and it teases sleeps! When I am in the friend of mine Andy's wedding ceremony, I paused in his place, and he has this bed in is probably the best sleep scene I some his guest room. This is just right. Pitiful grecian laurel…

5) My reduction goal has not arrived, and it felt, if I do not make the progress. I continue by the whole test to advise against, and wants to know whether to have is continuing even any spot. Perhaps, takes some to be doomed bald, I am doomed am obese. This pities the conference, this is I wants to know. I believed that if I before end of the month, has not made the progress, I will investigate obtain the trainer again. Yes, it will spend me, but I thought that it will be worth it, if it pays in full. I am convince, although, then it is hinders me the fitness my diet diligently.

6) How didn't I know a matter and the bomber aircraft recently. The personnel movement, obtains the incision, is traded…It is the mental hospital. I will not have approved the blue color nearly, and the gold comes the summer. We see it whether is a good deed. We in the QB situation are crazy, and is the biggest question mark, sees according to me.

7) I thought that I hoped will some day run for the town council. I knew that I will not obtain the election, but I will calculate me too to obtain the reward some will be more impossible than to make worse work yahoos and will do are too few.

I thought that is temporarily completely…

Amused

2009-03-23T10:46:00.003-06:00

What I did:
I went to BabelFish Translation and translated this post into Japanese. I then copied the text into a new blog post, and translated it back to english. You see below the result. Just a note: "Month Katsura Tree" is Laurel... Laurel my fiancee, and not laurel the plant. It took me a little to figure out what was going on, there.

Informality
Because I did not post many of last 2 weeks, as for me it calculated that perhaps I and catch the people who understand, (with who who reads this naturally).

1) As for work it is to be to be good still. I enjoying work, see first in next year. I the just several you are surprised is possible and thing possess the fact that it rises and the people rather think of [ku] rare [ru] thing with the pump concerning that. The night of tomorrow is the tournament of the stone paper scissors of first annual university attachment of the champion. Long title is deliberate. I like evening of boxing have done that; Music and prize and entirely all. [torohui] where I me am sweet rather and think was made. Perhaps me you obtain that image here.
1a) Being said, I really re-must apply for my work of next year, in order, it is stimulated. Because position has been based on contract, combination re-must apply when M U and contract ends, me, you sign. While I have known me, perhaps it improved I where I had than many experiences, good work is known, me and, it did. I am 1 years old of those people who simply become better with that work of every year; I have known that it is RLC where next year I am better.

2) In addition as for plan of wedding [kachikachi] sound is built well. We reserved our newly-married travelling and the month Katsura tree which are stimulated concerning that. She obtains the ton of shower of wedding which in addition should attend, (gentleman must attend those which is not I, “amen” it can obtain concerning?)As for her seeing first in those. The tuxedo of the attaching attachment person of my benedict is verified entirely, obtains being measured, lazy gits now you must go. I take charge of the fact that and you verify the menu; The work which I enjoy really. That does not put emphasis on me very.

3) As for plan of marriage, it is to be to be good excessively. Without becoming sentimentally remainder, to be able to think in me, from I who pass the rest of life of this woman am every day when it is excited. She is splendid, I have always learned concerning her. I learned the fact that recently she likes the Saint Valentine's Day. I in order for there to be I, her thought of that it is insensible feeling concerning entirely entirely. With that, I must remember the small detail, probably will be…

4) We bought the bed. Obtaining obtaining. Because as for the month Katsura tree, however, as for me who do not obtain the fact that she sleeps with that jealous. That is the bed of the just you are surprised, the pleasure of sleep is made! When I am un in D of my friend wedding, I was restricted to that place, there was this bed at that passenger compartment which is the scene of the sleep where a certain thing which perhaps I had in him is best. The good way exactly there is this one. Poor month Katsura tree…

5) Purpose of my loss in quantity does not reach as and, I have not progressed, as for that you feel. Whether or not I continue to be discouraged with all ordeal and in continuous thing the point is, you think in doubt. Perhaps, that I who am planned in order has become bald and how many to go am planned because it is fat quality. This meeting of sympathy, is not I who am thought in the doubt which this is. I think when the thing progress which obtains the trainer for the second time is not designated to as end of the month, me investigate. It is, that requires me more, but if it pays in full, I think of that is a value. As for me, however it is my diet where that has cut the [hi] stooping of effort of that my aptitude making be convinced.

6) As for me recently those which have happened are not recognized the bomber. The staff to move, being cut, profit…The mental hospital which that is it is exchanged. I verify blue at last, the gold summer comes. Whether or not that being good or without being, there are we, you see. Our states of QB are the doubt gate sign whose insanity and my heart are largest.

7) I think of that the fact that it runs is desired me for the city assembly some day. I receive the salary exceedingly, it calculated, just barely do thing how many of these yahoos which, more badly cannot working I could not, have known I who being chosen, but me.

For the present entirely…So I who am think

Ignorant Americans

2009-03-23T08:13:00.004-06:00

For the record, I don't know any Americans who are this ignorant. I know a lot of Americans. I actually like many Americans, too (a rare thing for many ignorant Canadians...). I found this clip, and couldn't watch the whole thing; my disgust and anger nearly made me queasy.

I was finally fed up when the longish-haired fellow started to mock our RCMP (national police) as being in practice the image have of the Mounties; wearing the red surge, riding a horse. Below, you’ll find two images of police in a raid. One is the RCMP and the other is the FBI. Which is which?

Right.

But, let’s think for a moment about what it would mean if his mocking was grounded in fact. According to him: the police in the US wears bulletproof vests, the RCMP wears the red surge; the police in the US ride armoured cars, and the RCMP rides horses. What has he established? – that the US needs its police to do these things. I doubt highly that anyone would wear a bulletproof vest if it wasn’t necessary. So, if this loser is correct, he’s told the world that the United States is a very violent place, and especially for its police. Great. Yep. Nice work, you moron.

This group of people has a demonstrable lack of education, or a profoundly short memory, or an insufferably arrogant attitude, or a combination of all three. Canada took over in Afghanistan when the United States decided to wander over to Iraq and leave the people in this suddenly defenseless country without a hope or a gun to keep the ousted Taliban from returning. None of the other NATO powers felt much call to, but the Canadians did. In cleaning up the mess that the US left (and I have supported much of their activities in the Middle East), we have said goodbye to 117 of our soldiers.
And back further, you discover the impact Canada has had on the world in its military efforts. Where the United States armed forces are feared, the Canadian armed forces are respected. This fact has been lost on this group of four morons.

The blonde’s comment about having to give Canadians some credit because, “it’s frigid up there,” nearly made my head spin about on my shoulders…

But I shouldn’t be so hard on them. Really, they have a tough gig. They’re on a show no one’s ever heard of until now, and are struggling to make it in a business that respects either good looks, good insight, or controversy; and they’re woefully unarmed in that contest. Left without the first two, they’ll fall back to the third with a blissfully arrogant smile on their lazy faces, and condemn things they do not understand about places they don’t care to visit, concerning people they do not know, using the mocking tone of the fool who believes his dungheap is the best because it is simply piled highest.

Enjoy your 15 minutes of fame; I certainly won’t pay you one more moment of concern than it takes to hit, “publish post.”

Random

2009-03-09T22:35:00.004-06:00

I see the Bombers released their QB, Kevin Glenn. No surprise. The coach handled it like a moron, though; letting people know you think a player could use a trade is not an enticement to other teams to consider trading for him.

Work is a pile of stress. Too much stuff up in the air, and I have no ability to take hold of it. I'm sure God's looking to teach me something in the whole scene, but right now I feel very much like I did when I was working on my MA and had a million assignments due in a short period of time. I get overactive and my life starts to get a little unravelled.

Additionally, I believe I worked near 32 hours between Friday at 4:30 and Monday at 9:30. That's a lot of hours. I woke up this morning and believed it was Thursday.

I gave up drinking all beverages except water for Lent. I expected that this would be a problem. I'm relieved to see that I have been wrong. It really isn't anything for me to drink only water. I drink less fluid than before, but really, it's just because I'm lazy and not because of anything else. Perhaps next year I'll have to try something really hard... like being a vegetarian for Lent. Wait, I said hard, not stupid....

Sometimes I think I've seen the dumbest behaviour a student can offer... but the entries keep rolling in.

Psalm 132 specifically is pretty amazing.

I have seen no results of working out, and so I have stopped bothering. This perplexes many of my friends, who do not understand how I can work out as I do and see no results - I have neither gained muscle nor lost fat. I am similarly perplexed, but more than that, I am disappointed and apathetic. Why waste the effort?

I am very pessimistic these days. It is a byproduct of my stressors. Still, placing my faith securely in God and not in mere mortal people gives me hope. The fact that I am loved by, and love, Laurel makes me smile. Life is good, even if I'm not seeing it as clearly as I have in the past.

I cling to Psalm 73:26 - "My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever." One day I'll be able to actually say that with 100% certainty. Until then, I'll keep saying it and hope it sinks in.

I suppose I should be abed.

Gobsmacked

2009-03-02T21:48:00.011-06:00

I tried to write this last night, but the Intarwebz ate it, and left me with nothing except frustration. Anyway, on to the story!

Sunday, Laurel and I were wandering around Sears, updating our registry. "Let's get some nice mugs, maybe a teapot," one of us said. This seemed like a good idea, and so we looked. Well, we found some great ones. They looked good, they seemed like they would hold liquid well - really, it was everything you could ask from a mug and teapot.

Then I discovered something that had me literally without the words to describe. I mean, I could not get my head around this notion, despite my best efforts. But rather than simply tell you what was going on, I'm going to play a little "Price is Right" with you, and have you guess the prices of the following items. No cheating, either!Now, if you guessed, in order from the top: $43.99, $74.99, and $169.99, then congratulations! That’s right, these items cost that much. Let’s just pause a moment to consider, shall we?

The mug. When I saw the price, I thought, Surely that is the price for a set of 6. That would be expensive, but not unreasonable. No. That is the price for a single mug. One. Just what makes this mug so expensive? Was this the personal mug of Jesus Christ? Did He use this mug at the Last Supper? I would happily pay $44 for something that Jesus Christ personally used - that’s a good deal on an artifact of that stature. But since each of the mugs were $44, I doubt any of them were used by the Messiah Himself.

And then there’s the sugar bowl. 75 cud-gargling dollars for a container for your sugar? Are you telling me that somewhere out there is a person who would rather spend the equivalent of two tanks of gas for my car on something that could be just as faithfully reproduced by a small glass bowl, purchased from Wal-Mart for $3? Listen, even if I was opposed to Wal-Mart for some ideological reason, surely I would rather spend $3 on a sugar bowl than $75.

The teapot! Unless this teapot possesses some sort of mystical qualities, like drinking from it will provide me with eternal youth, or if it always brewed the perfect pot of tea - and the tea was a cure for cancer! - then I am afraid that $170 is an unreasonable price to pay for a teapot. I don’t care how pretty it might be, there is no excuse for spending more on a teapot than I spend on groceries in about a month.

I tried to explain to the lovely saleswoman that she must be wrong. These prices are simply too unreasonable, too extravagant; no one would pay such a price. The room was spinning as I tried to comprehend what was going on. Had I wandered into some sort of strange alternate universe in which people had more money than they knew what to do with? Was the sky red? If I dropped a coin on the ground, would it fly to the ceiling?

She just laughed. I'm not sure if she was amused by how I looked, brow furrowed in a vain attempt to understand the situation, or if it was my rambling, disbelieving response.

The point is, that's a lot of money for a mug.

Dang

2009-03-02T00:32:00.002-06:00

I lost a post. I was really proud of it, too. Ah well, I'll rewrite it tomorrow. Suckers! It was awesome.

In Short Form

2009-02-25T10:44:00.002-06:00

As I haven't posted much in the last two weeks, I figured I might as well catch people up to speed (in case anyone's reading this, of course).

1) Work is still going well. I'm enjoying the job and looking forward to next year. I have a couple of awesome events coming up, and I think people are pretty pumped about it. Tomorrow night is the First Annual University College Rock-Paper-Scissors Tournament of Champions. The long title is intentional. I'm doing it up like a boxing evening; music and prizes and the whole thing. I even made a trophy that I think is pretty sweet. I might even get a picture of it here.
1a) That said, I am not really excited to have to reapply for my job for next year. Because the position is based on the contract the union signs with the U of M, I'll have to reapply when the contract ends. While I know I've done a good job, I also know I could have done better, had I more experience. I'm one of those people that only gets better at his job with each year; I know next year I'll be an even better RLC.

2) Wedding plans are also ticking along just fine. We've booked our honeymoon and Laurel's excited about that. She's also got a tonne of wedding showers to attend (gentlemen, can I get an "Amen" about not having to attend those?), and she's looking forward to them. My groomsmen's tuxes are all confirmed, and now they have to go get measured, the lazy gits. I'm in charge of confirming the menu as well; a task I'm actually enjoying. It doesn't stress me out very much.

3) Marriage plans are going well, too. Without getting too sappy, it seems to me that I am more excited every day to be spending the rest of my life with this woman. She's amazing, and I'm constantly learning about her. I recently learned she likes Valentine's Day. I thought she was apathetic about the whole thing, like I am. Well, I'm going to have to remember that little detail...

4) We bought a bed. Yeah. Laurel, though, is jealous because she doesn't get to sleep in it, and I do. It's an awesome bed, and it makes sleeping fun! When I was in my friend Andy's wedding, I stayed at his place and he had this bed in his guest room that was probably the scene of the best sleep I've ever had. This one is just as good. Poor Laurel...

5) My weight loss goals have not been reached, and it feels like I'm making no progress. I continue to be discouraged by the whole ordeal, and wonder if there's even any point in continuing. Perhaps, as some are destined to go bald, I am destined to be fat. This is not a pity session, this is me wondering. I think, if I have made no progress by the end of the month, I will look into getting a trainer again. Yes, it will cost me more, but I think it will be worth it if it pays off. I am more convinced than ever, though, that it is my diet that is hamstringing my fitness efforts.

6) I have no idea what's going on with the Bombers lately. Personnel is moving, getting cut, being traded... it's a madhouse. I'll barely recognise the Blue and Gold come summer. We'll see if it's a good thing or not. Our situation at QB is crazy, and is the biggest question mark, in my mind.

7) I think I'd like to run for city council someday. I know I wouldn't get elected, but I figure I can't do a worse job than some of these yahoos who get paid too much and do too little.

I think that is all for now...

Discuss

2009-02-09T11:57:00.006-06:00

Within the framework of Christian ethics, which is framed by the Biblical command to not sin, is there a situation in which lying is morally acceptable?

In other words, given that we seem to always have the option to lie or to tell the truth, when if ever is it appropriate for a Bible-believing Christian to lie?

Discuss.

Atheists Beware!

2009-02-06T00:46:00.000-06:00

A young man who wishes to remain a sound atheist cannot be too careful of his reading.
--C. S. Lewis

Psalm 51

2009-02-05T01:19:00.003-06:00

Have mercy on me, O God, according to your unfailing love; according to your great compassion blot out my transgressions.
Wash away all my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin.
For I know my transgressions, and my sin is always before me.
Against you, you only, have I sinned and done what is evil in your sight, so that you are proved right when you speak and justified when you judge.
Surely I was sinful at birth, sinful from the time my mother conceived me.
Surely you desire truth in the inner parts; you teach me wisdom in the inmost place.
Cleanse me with hyssop, and I will be clean; wash me, and I will be whiter than snow.
Let me hear joy and gladness; let the bones you have crushed rejoice.
Hide your face from my sins and blot out all my iniquity.
Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.
Do not cast me from your presence or take your Holy Spirit from me.
Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me.
Then I will teach transgressors your ways, and sinners will turn back to you.
Save me from bloodguilt, O God, the God who saves me, and my tongue will sing of your righteousness.
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth will declare your praise.
You do not delight in sacrifice, or I would bring it; you do not take pleasure in burnt offerings.
The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise.
In your good pleasure make Zion prosper; build up the walls of Jerusalem.
Then there will be righteous sacrifices, whole burnt offerings to delight you; then bulls will be offered on your altar.

I love this psalm.

Subways

2009-02-03T00:57:00.001-06:00

I posted this at New Winnipeg, a forum where people talk about Winnipeg... obviously. Anyway, I thought I would add it here, just in case you were interested.

I've been thinking about a subway system in Winnipeg for awhile now, and I think there's real promise.

At first I thought it was a crazy idea, but it's becoming more fitting. The key moment for me was realising a couple of things.
1) It doesn't have to go down every street
2) It's going to be expensive, but that is what's called an investment
3) No one will ever be completely happy, regardless of what is decided. This is Winnipeg, after all, where we must figure the best means to combat cold/mosquitos is by complaining without knowledge or action.
4) It should be a very simple system, funnelling people where we want them to go.

That said, I needed to figure out where these lines would run, after all. And that's when I discovered something very important: being underground, it doesn't have to follow roads exactly.

Here are my suggestions; I welcome comment:
First, it needs to go east-west. My suggestion is to follow Portage (obviously) and then to head to Lagimodiere following Marion. Perhaps there would be a detour to stop near Assiniboine zoo or something.
Then, the north-south routes: St Norbert via Pembina Highway (with a stop at the U of M, near the new stadium) to Main and the Perimeter; St Mary's/St Anne's to McPhillips via Notre Dame; Route 90 with a stop at the airport; Lagimodiere should be considered as well.

The hope would be a hub downtown. I haven't figured out where. And, I would use the Arlington Yards (since there's nothing going on there anymore, right?) for the trains' storage and maintenance. Yes, I know the rails aren't the same, but the land is useful for it.

Okay, that's my rough sketch. I'm ready for the evisceration.

FitDay

2009-01-28T15:37:00.001-06:00

I found a really cool tool for tracking caloric intake, output, and a host of other fitness related items. Just stop by FitDay and start up a profile. It’s completely free and very intuitive in terms of entering items into a food log. It does a pretty good job of figuring out your lifestyle and how to lose the weight you need to, and it gives a great pie chart that tells you the percentages of fat, carbohydrates, and protein you’re eating. If you’re looking for some way to keep track of it all, I recommend FitDay.

One caveat (and perhaps a confession) is that it becomes very easy to obsess about things like the food log. As the biggest barrier for me when it comes to changing the body I hate so much is my diet, being able to see it all on the screen at one time poses a real temptation to be so fastidious about it that it stops being healthy.

I have been trying to achieve my fitness goals for some time. I go to the gym regularly (well, try to), and still I see no success. This frustrates me to no end. Now, seeing everything I’ve eaten laid out for me in pie chart form, the temptation whispers to just stop eating. This is unacceptable, but it’s the dark side of the food log.

In any event, I hope that you can use this safely if you’d like to, and pass it on if you don’t need it. If you have stories about weightloss/fitness goals, I’d love to hear them

Star Wars - by someone who hasn't seen it

2009-01-21T10:38:00.001-06:00

http://vimeo.com/2809991