Shama

If this doesn't get me in "ACU Today," then nothing else will!

2006-08-15T09:45:00.000-05:00

I feel like a pretty big deal in this picture. However, for anyone worried that I might be getting a big head, fear not! It took me half an hour to get this thing in the boat and I am very thankful that you can't hear the exhausted whimpering that took place only moments before Captain Kyle (back left) netted the beast. Eat your heart out Santiago.
I was still very afraid of the smaller version

cross my heart

2006-06-24T07:16:00.000-05:00

It's been a tough week. We had a funeral for a man who was too young to die. He leaves behind, among others, a wife and two boys who have never fully realized there need for him until now. I don't have anything else to say about it except, that our language, and probably a lot of others, does not have an adequate concept or word for the emotion that is felt at a time like this. We do not mourn for him, he is doing fine and actually we are quite pleased for him. We mourn for ourselves, in a deserved selfishness that is too deep for a single word from an awkward language to express. Oddly, this expresses my saddness fairly well...

Why! who makes much of a miracle?
As to me, I know of nothing else but miracles,
Whether I walk the streets of Manhattan,
Or dart my sight over the roofs of houses toward the sky,
Or wade with naked feet along the beach, just in the edge of the water,
Or stand under trees in the woods,
Or talk by day with any one I love--or sleep in the bed at night with any one I love,
Or sit at table at dinner with my mother,
Or look at strangers opposite me riding in the car,
Or watch honey-bees busy around the hive, of a summer forenoon,
Or animals feeding in the fields,
Or birds--or the wonderfulness of insects in the air,
Or the wonderfulness of the sun-down--or of stars shining so quiet and bright,
Or the exquisite, delicate, thin curve of the new moon in spring;
Or whether I go among those I like best, and that like me best-- mechanics, boatmen, farmers,
Or among the savans--or to the soiree--or to the opera,
Or stand a long while looking at the movements of machinery,
Or behold children at their sports,
Or the admirable sight of the perfect old man, or the perfect old woman,
Or the sick in hospitals, or the dead carried to burial,
Or my own eyes and figure in the glass;
These, with the rest, one and all, are to me miracles,
The whole referring--yet each distinct, and in its place.

To me, every hour of the light and dark is a miracle,
Every cubic inch of space is a miracle,
Every square yard of the surface of the earth is spread with the same,
Every foot of the interior swarms with the same;
Every spear of grass--the frames, limbs, organs, of men and women, and all that concerns them,
All these to me are unspeakably perfect miracles.

To me the sea is a continual miracle;
The fishes that swim--the rocks--the motion of the waves--the ships, with men in them,
What stranger miracles are there?

By Walt Whitman

My daily miracle

the next one will be even better, cross my heart

Brent and linds...go getcha some!

2006-06-08T10:37:00.000-05:00

The most important thing going on for me right now is that in 1 hour I will leave work and go home to get ready for our trip to Houston. I am pretty excited to see all of our friends and family that live there. Not only will we get to stay with and spend time with Michael and Angela, who we have not seen in too long of a time, but we will also get to see Jeddidiah Ross, and I guess seeing his parents will be kind of neat to. Most importantly, my roommate of 3 years and freind of 5 is getting married this weekend to a woman that compliments him in amazing ways. We are really excited for you guys. Honorable mention for this upcoming weekend goes to: cody, clayton, keathly, Demetrius (All Rocker) Collins, Jared Aston, the Couchman clan linds' family.

For those of you wondering, both Kristin's and my own internships are going great, if I know you and you want to know more, call or e-mail, I really wouldn't mind.

On a much more exciting note than my internship, we are officially less than 24 hours away from kickoff in what I consider to be the most important tournament that anyone in the US will play in the side of a half decade. If you need more convincing check this out. http://soccernet.espn.go.com/columns/story?id=370304&cc=5901

Soccer... I am an American and I call it Soccer

2006-06-02T14:03:00.000-05:00

I am breaking out of yet another long blogging sabbatical to talk about how absolutely excited I am about the up-coming World Cup. For those of you who are
familiar with my typical sarcastic (and really not very funny) sense of humor as well as my usual sports interests, no, I am not kidding about being very, very excited for the World Cup. There are three reasons for this.

1) It is the only major sporting event that has not been successfully prostituted by a major corporations and/or several major corporations (i.e. the Olympics and GE), yet. So far viewers are not forced into watching vanilla talking heads and commercials more than sporting events, as they are during the Olympics and much of the coverage of our four traditionally popular sports. Even if Disney (who owns ESPN and ABC, the stations that will be giving the world the World Cup this year) attempts to use their characteristically poor objectivity in regards to sports (see this years Rose Bowl predictions and how Reggie Bush is going to wash all your sins away) to completely objectify a great tournament, I don't think that die-hard European fans will allow soccer to become what college football has become in America, often valuing hype over substance.

2) It still means something. This is a really good point that my brother Matt made who is also not a typical soccer fan. The Olympics used to mean that if someone won a gold medal then they were the best the world had to offer. Even worse, if you lost, you had no chance truly redeem yourself for four years, and after waiting for four years there was no guarantee you were still good enough to make it. This means that you had better come correct during the Olympics or else you may have no chance to redeem your dreams of being the world's best. I probably don't have to do a lot of convincing that the Olympics have really lost their luster, but I don't have a good reason why. The Olympic games just seem to be more like a gimmick every four years for NBC to promote themselves rather than showcasing the World's greatest athletes in sports that traditionally don't get much coverage but are fascinating none-the-less.

3) Michael Davies. I can point to the 2002 World Cup as the tournament that got me hooked much like I can point to the 1992 Barcelona Olympics that made me believe that sports can be powerful enough to define and even transcend the human experience (trust me, I am not trying to sound like Klaustermann). Part of that great experience four years ago was my devotion to Michael Davies' daily journal of experiences in the 02 World Cup. I like Davies because he loves, truly loves, the sport that he covers (actually he only covers soccer, his daily job is a producer for ESPN and not a Page 2 writer). In regards to his coverage this year compared to four years ago He says, "I pledge to write stylier this time, to get my facts straightier and to occasionally acknowledge the football and not just the beer, the nightlife and my inability to remember to put on deodorant. But my point of view will remain the same. It's for the fan who wishes he was there -- compared to the majority of the mainstream soccer writers who act like they wish they weren't." I love this statement. He follows the sport not out of some sort of self loathing, pessimistic, duty that he feels, but because he wants to be there and enjoys writing for, "the fan that wishes he was there." Isn't this why people like Keith Jackson, Jack Buck, Harry Carry, and Howard Cossell started reporting in the first place? Because we couldn't be there and we trusted them to tell what it was like, maybe even why it was important, fun, sad, or unexplainable. Michael Davies is fun to read and he makes me feel like I am experiencing a little bit of the greatness that truly is the World's most important tournament, even though I can't get to Germany. That's a good reporter and it's going to be a great cup.

"Slam Jam!"

2006-04-24T11:29:00.000-05:00

My favorite band of all time, my favorite basketball team, my city, one of my favorite sports writters. Is it too much to say that this article defines me as a person?

Patrick Vincent

2006-04-07T10:41:00.000-05:00

As my good friend Patrick Vincent (aka Patty V. aka The Weasel aka racquetball addict or "rad") heads off to the Far East I thought that the first page to a paper I am writing would be appropriate. Especially since he is feeling nostalgic about leaving our Dear Christian College. Kristin and I love you Patty, we sure are going to miss you

The sunrise devotional during new student orientation week at ACU is a cherished tradition. Students, both new and seasoned, wake before the rising of the sun and gather on the steps of the chapel on the hill. With their bodies gathered in the pre-dawn cold they face east and wait for the sun to warm them. Their unquestioned expectations of the first beam of sunlight, is validated by the countless mornings before this one when the sun also rose. Aside from the unity that is being established among the student body, something truly awesome is happening here, something that the students may not be even aware of. By definition, they are orienting themselves. That is, they are aligning themselves to the sun, their eyes are due east as the sunlight cracks the horizon. No compos in the world knows true east like they due at that moment. The orientation of the students to the sun is, in itself, not remarkable, but what is remarkable is the recognition of the faithfulness of the God that rises the sun morning after morning. Regardless of how disoriented these humans may have been moments before when all was dark in the absence of the sun, God has risen the sun and no one expected otherwise. The sun is now casting light into dark and disoriented lives. Essentially, the students are not orienting themselves to the sun but to the God that raises the sun through grace and faithfulness. What appropriately follows is the students giving praise to the God who made the sun rise. As the students praise and at the moment of blessing all players are in their proper positions. God, creation and humans are oriented according to God’s excellent design. God has created a new morning and the people are blessing God for this creation. This is proper creation theology, that God created the world, which was called by God a blessing to man, and in turn human’s fittingly respond by praising God. New student orientation could not be a more appropriate name for what is taking place.

The only advice I have for you is that no matter how far east you go from us, there is always a more faithful east to be sought after.

Felix Hernandez is not the #1?

2006-04-04T16:07:00.000-05:00

It is by far the best time of year. April gives us the end of the final four, the masters, the NFL draft, but most importantly it gives us April 3rd... Opening Day. While the Mariners lost last night, there is a lot to be hopeful about. Johjima hit a home run answering the question, at least for now, "can he hit?" and the M's played one the leagues best teams and best pitchers pretty darn good only lose to a superior bullpen. All I have to say about tonight is, "I sure hope the M's don't lose to this guy.
While I think its great that John Lackey is a nice guy and from Abilene, I will be haunted by this face if we start the season 0-2.

Created in the Image

2006-03-31T11:11:00.000-06:00

recently I have been justifiably criticized for my lack of blogging, as well as the content (pure hot sports opinions*) of those posts I do occasionally decide to write. I could expose several legitimate reasons for not blogging, such as burnout and maybe a hint of very real depression after the Seahawks lost. However, the real reason has much more to do with creation. That's right! Creation like the seven days of creation uttered by Yahweh during the Genesis account. I have this subject on my mind recently because of a presentation concerning the subject, but it got me thinking about how we reflect God's creation.
I have been creating a lot lately. And, like Yahweh, those creations have come by my utterings, that is, unlike Yahweh who created the world, my creations have been a non stop barrage of the creating of papers and presentations. Like Yahweh, these creations come from me and are of me, and that is exhausting. I too need a Sabbath. My lack of blogging, or my lack of creating from utterances, has been my Sabbath, and it is has been good.
Not so serious blog coming soon, filled with HSO**

*This phase is and always has been property of Austin Van Henley **as well as all references to the idea.

There are two kinds of people on Earth. Those that get paid to wear the jersey, and those that pay to wear one.

2006-03-07T12:49:00.000-06:00

Part of the reason I haven't written here in so long is because of what I was using this space for. After the Rose Bowl hype and all the micro stories about the SuperBowl that were exploded into headlines, I realized that often I hate what the current media climate has become. What scared me even more, and caused me to feel perpetually burnt out when it came to writing here is that I was just like the ones I loathed the worst. I am one more voice in the polyphonic milieu of terribly unimportant opinions that, in the end, are just white noise. I am like one of the people who auditions on American Idol and thinks that they are going to be really unique by beat boxing and dancing, only to watch the show months later and realize that the guy before me did the same thing and everybody laughed at him just as hard as they snickered at me. I am like morons like Mark Shlereth or Shaun Salisbury who think that somehow they have experienced more than anyone else in the planet and by speaking their opinions somehow those words will harden into fact and the players will perform accordingly without any free will or ambition of their own. Worst of all I and current sports media, de-humanize every aspect of the players and the game to the point where nothing is sacred, all is numerical, and no one really enjoys any of the magic that happens between the lines (so to speak). Today, the day after a great man has passed on, a man who was just as conflicted and messed up as me and you, an anomaly in the equation has surfaced. A story was written about Kirby Puckett that I think is worth anyone's time, regardless of whether or not you are a sports hound like me. Maybe, it is so great because it is more than just about Puckett but about how we are all guilty of not just de-humanizing Kirby, but taking the dignity and the right to mess up away from everyone who is better than us at sports, so much better they get paid to do it and we pay to watch.

2006-02-07T10:44:00.000-06:00

I know of at least two guys who are probably waiting for my reaction to the superbowl. I wish I could say more, but its hard to express yourelf in this sort of situation and I am also a little worried about sounding overdramatic. Okay, I am really worried about sounding overdramatic. The only really sufficent word that comes to my mind in regards to the Seahawks loss is that I am sad. When I get through with my mourning, I am sure I will have more to say. The only thing else I can think to say right now is that I made a promise to myself a while ago that I would no longer ever blame the officials for winning or losing a game for a team, and though others have been quick to do so, and though it might make me actually feel better, I can not blame the refs for Seattle's loss. I also don't want to imply that I am not blamming them simply out of stubbourness. Rather my motivation is because of the reasoning behind that agreement with myself. There is simply always something a team could have done better to insure their victory... unfortunately the Seahawks are no different. And that makes me sad

2006-01-31T13:35:00.000-06:00

I would just like to issue a charge to anyone out there. I would like someone to find an intelligent article by a sports writer that has the Seahawks (a number 1 seed) beating the Steelers (a number 6 seed). As a Seahawks fan, I would just like to hear someone who has not jumped on the Steelers bandwagon just yet and makes some good arguments for the Hawks' chances. It's hard to do mind you, I have been looking and can only find people who want to laud the Steelers. Despite the fact that these are the same people who think that it is just the most amazing thing in the world that Jerome Bettis is from Detroit and the SuperBowl is in Detroit (seriously is anyone else tired of hearing about his homecoming and think that it really wasn't that newsworthy to begin with?), I think that they make some good arguments. However, I just want someone to agree with, someone who sees that the Hawks could just as easily be 4 point favorites instead of 4 point underdogs. But, I guess I like it that way, I like that the Hawks aren't being taken as seriously as they need to be, like they have been all year. I know that the Steelers are not taking them lightly. And I guess that is why none of the taking heads or sports writers predictions mean a darn thing because, simply, they still have to play the game and predictions mean nothing in the end. And that is a great thing about sports, opinions, when it is all said and done, are worthless. Regardless, I would still like a pick me up, so the challenge is still on, go forth and read.
Don't you just want to caress his beautiful bald head?

2006-01-28T17:42:00.000-06:00

I always kind of thought that the Aggies were pretty pathetic, but could never exactly say why I felt that way. Now I know why ...GIVE ME A BREAK!

if the link doesn't work just copy and paste
http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/seahawks/2002767497_twelfthman28.html

The Bus is Buttless

2006-01-27T11:09:00.000-06:00

I would like to respond to my good friend Austin Henly's most recent blog, by writting one of my own. Austin has taken it upon himself to compile a short list of the greatest running backs in the history of the NFL. I think that his current list is pretty good except for the ranking of Jerome "The Bus" Bettis at number 13. I believe that Jerome should be even lower(higher? not as good!) on the list for the sheer fact that he has no butt. Next time they show an angle from the Steelers backfield check it out. Just because the yellow pants and white jersey add some contrast does not mean it's there. His back just sort of goes down a long way and then his legs start! You would think that such a fat man would have a healthy posterior, but the bus is buttless. Austin I think that it should be a prerequisite for this list, not to mention normal human beings, of such great physical specimens that one should have a rear end for crying out loud! I don't know what sort of unfair advantage this would give someone but I am guessing it would be similar to eating cereal that was really just a bunch of steroid pills set in milk. There are a lot of things that bug me about Jerome Bettis (i.e. the non-stop breaking news story about how your mom and dad have come to every game, and whats even less surprising is how much I don't care) but every time I see him bent over in a two point stance in the backfield, I swear its a freak of nature and I want to throw up! So do every one who appreciates the largest muscle in the human body a big favor and toss this joker off the list.

PS this is the best picture I could offer but as you can clearly see, even with this hand in the way, the man has no bottom...its discusting!

2006-01-22T15:45:00.000-06:00

Does this sound familiar?

pictures of the playoff beard forthcoming

You, sir, are my greatest aspiration

2006-01-18T11:00:00.000-06:00

I am coming out of my unintended blog sabbatical (one post over the last month) to tell you who do not get to see my face on a regular basis of something important. I am embarking on something that I have never had the opportunity to do for multiple reasons...I am growing a beard. Let me explain. The first reason I have never been able to grow a beard was a result of the overdue movement of a certain puberty gland and naturally sparse hair, the second reason is that this is not just any beard...BUT A PLAYOFF BEARD BABBY! That's right even now my facial hair growing prowess is weak at best (pitiable better describes it), with asymmetrical patches popping up wherever they chose. Some areas, including the entire part of my face above the jaw-line, have no hair whatsoever. I would like to report that since I have been growing the beard/patches of hair, my beloved Seahawks have become the favorite to win the Superbowl. Some of you might say this is only a coincidence and that I am just exhibiting my insane belief that if the fan cheers harder then the team plays better. To those of you skeptics thinking these thoughts right now I would like, as I am taking part in the Playoff beard challenge, for you to part in "Dave's playoff beard challenge." Your involvement only requires that you write your comments down (either about the stupidity of me growing a beard and the actual affects it has on the outcomes of the games, or the chances of the Seahawks themselves) and share them with me when the beard comes off (for whatever reason). The only possible outcome is that either you or I will feel incredibly stupid when the contents of your current thoughts are brought to the light of day, because you either you will have severely underestimated the voodoo that is caused by a 22 year old pre-pubescent growing a beard, or I will have destroyed hundreds of first impressions by going around wearing this hideous thing while the people I meet think to themselves "what on earth is he thinking? Isn't he married, why doesn't his wife just divorce him?" So seriously, write down your skepticisms, either way it should be entertaining.

2005-12-31T12:11:00.000-06:00

I am coming out of my three week detoxification period, ala George Costanza (except longer and possible more pathetic), to make a "hot sports opinion" (Henley, P. 315) because I can no longer keep inside. Here it goes; I am so sick and tired of hearing about how USC is the best college team to ever play (don't forget close wins to not only contenders like Notre Dame and Arizona State but also to Fresno State who turned around and lost to perennial powerhouse...Nevada!) and how ESPN is allowing the portion of the nation who thinks it is actually possible, to compare USC with truly great teams from 35 years ago as well as teams that actually played in the same decade, I am so tired of hearing how Bush is going to save whatever lowly NFL franchise that drafts him (that is unless they ruin his career by playing him right away) just because he was fairly dominating in college (the truth is no one can truly accurately predict how a player will transition... can you say "Ryan Leaf"?), I am so tired of wanting to vomit every time I hear some guy wearing a suit sitting behind a desk that makes a living by making ridiculous "can-you-top-this" statements about how USC has so many weapons with out ever mentioning the defensive ability of Texas or Ramonce or Vince that for one day and for one day only I am an OFFICIAL UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS LONGHORN FAN!!!!! In the past I have been surrounded by many passionate Texas fans. I always daringly rooted against their beloved Longhorns for the sheer fact that at times Texas fan's unwavering determination that every year is "this is they year Mac takes us all the way," can be annoying at times. However, during the game that is "the granddaddy of them all" (Keith Jackson, P. Every year I have ever watched the Rose Bowl), I will be as hopeful as Justin Scott, I will be as passionate as Eric Hise, and if they lose I will enter a state of potential sui-/homicide similar to my friend Jayson Gipson. For that one day my friends I will root for the Longhorns of the University of Texas, and, completely forgetting about my desire for USC to win and make the Pac 10 look good, I might even be persuaded to wear burnt Organge...that is if someone is willing to provide it, I am not looking to buy anything here. HOOK 'EM HORNS!

I Guess it Just Runs in the Family

2005-12-07T12:13:00.000-06:00

For those of you who would like to stop reading now because you don't like reading about sports only, I am giving you fair warning...sort of. Following sports, particularly the tireless support of one's home team, is more than understanding and debating the rules and objectives of what happens, forgive me, "between the lines." Lately, I have been thinking about what sports are to me, and what my teams mean to me (I think this is a result of living with someone who is only beginning to understand how weirdly obsessed I am with sports, and having to answer questions like, "why do we have to watch two teams that you don't even care about?") To me, sports are alone time with my dad where he spoiled me with attention, instruction, and approval. They are the time my dad couldn't take me to a game. My mom took his pace and tried her best to play the role, but it was her effort that communicated to me that I was loved. To me, sports are memories with my brother and sister where we competed with each other, watched and supported each other, cheered with each other. Sports are the times my family was there for each other in the disappointing times, both when we experienced personal defeat, and when we watched in horror as our teams underachieved (i.e. Dikembe Mutombo shaking the ball over his head and crying like an idiot when him and the Nuggets upset the 1st place Sonics in the first round in 1994). But, we were also there in the triumphs, when 10,000 people from Issaquah traveled to Tacoma to watch us win state and erupted as the clock wound down, somehow I found my parents in the midst of an explosion of people and saw their pride. And, I will never forget that summer when the Mariners won 116, and an entire region of the country (from Alaska to Montana to Oregon) caught the SoDo Mojo. Essentially, sports have become the avenue of life that, because it is so easy to define, is most easy to talk about and, because of this I am able to remember the feelings of my life through the medium of sports. Even as I write this I can vividly remember sitting in the 300 level of the Kingdom with my dad and my little league team watching the Mariners get it handed to them by the Twins. I can smell the beer of the guys behind us, I can feel my shoes stick to the concrete floor, I can see the very un grass-like astroturf, and I can feel the closeness of my father, and as I write this I could cry because this is the ease with which sports remembers life. Traditions of programs, pride, the health of competition, and the importance of learning to succeed in the midst of difficulty, are all parts of sports that I love. However, they pale in comparison to the fact that when I watch the Seahawks beat up on the Eagles or barely squeak by the Giants, I know that there are at least three people in Seattle and two people in Nashville who are watching the game with Kristin and I, going through the emotions with us. No words or awkward conversations to confirm mutual feelings need to take place, the game happens and we know how the others feel because it is how we feel. Now, can we begin to understand how sports are more to us than men we don't know personally competing against each other with a million dollar price tag at the end?
I think this is why my Dad is so absolutely "geeked" for December 18th. You see the Seahawks are playing the Titans in Nashville that day, and my parents are flying in for the holidays earlier that morning. My father-in-law got us tickets and we are going to go see the 1st place (man this feels weird) Seahawks play the Titans, and to pile on memories to the ones we already have of sports with each other . The family has grown as families do and in this case it means we have grown (geographically) apart. My dad has not been able to take my brother and I to a game since...I really can't remember. With that said, I don't know how to describe to anyone reading this how important this seemingly unimportant game is to my family. We won't mention it, there will be no need to. We will just go to the game cheer for our team (who has not won a playoff game since I was 8 months old) like we always do and whether they win as they should or get upset like they have before, sports...and my family will win because memories will be made of the life we lived and because of sports, I will remember them tomorrow.

2005-12-02T15:47:00.000-06:00

I apologize for the lack of quality that my blogging has had recently, and this one will be no exception. I am just to busy and too tired to really put forth much of an effort. Though I wish everyone who reads on occasion would continue to do so, because I promise, it will get better. But for now...

tomorrow night the Skyline Spartans of Sammamish Washington (my Alma Matter) play in the state championship game against Woodinville High School, oddly enough, a team they have already beat in league play (Most oddly though is the fact that over thanksgiving break when I was in Nashville I saw a high school girl wearing a letterman jacket from Woodenville, I stopped and starred really hard to make sure I wasn't imagining it, but sure enough Woodinville Falcons. I'm pretty sure her dad thought I was sizeing her up...oops). Skyline is the heavy favorites and, while I realize how pathetic I am coming across right now, I really want them to win. You can read an article about the quarterback here (sorry this computer doesn't have the "hyperlink" option) http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/highschoolsports/2002659262_skyline02.html.

2005-12-01T11:21:00.000-06:00

Recently I have been obessesed. Obssessed with a 'stache. I have searched long and hard to find a picture of Adam Morrison's bacteria-like growth above his upper lip. At long last I have found one, though not one that adequately portrays the awfullness of it. And ask my readers one question. Is there ever a time when something is so awful that it actually becomes beautiful? So revolting that its mystafying? So O-My-Gosh-I-don't-know-what-I-would-do-if-that-thing-actually-ever-touched-me that all you want to do is caress it's greasy tips? Me neither.

2005-11-28T13:32:00.000-06:00

I just finished typing, correcting, bibliography-ing, footnoting, and printing the two different papers, that add up to 25 brutal pages, required for my class today. Truly, it is the end of the semester. I don't have much to say or much time to say it in because after class and working at the pool (it is that time of year, for the glorious, yet simultaneously terrible, sport of waterball, how I love it so) I must begin reading a book that I must type four pages on in addition to a three page, single spaced, "reflection paper" (I quote because, since when did a reflection paper require three freakin sources?!) that are due tomorrow/Tuesday. I semi hate my life right now, however, the promise of a restful rest of the week before finals, gives me hope. And you know what else? In the end it really isn't so bad. I am thankful for the opportunity I have to study here, and in masochistitc sort of way, I am enjoying it. I like stretching myself, I like finishing large tasks, I think that there is a sort of worship to it. God can be glorified through hard work, sleepless nights, the keeping of ones word that says "I will turn this in on time." Maybe, the idea of, "just a little hard work before its over," should not have such an ominous ring when I use it to motivate myself. I pray that I can become more grateful for a little hard work because of the opportunity it affords me to unconventional worship.

ps. when I run spell check for "freakin" it wants to replace it with "foreskin" now thats funny and I don't care who you are.

2005-11-21T18:24:00.000-06:00

I like Adam Morrison of the 9th ranked Gonzaga Bulldogs...I don't like what is growing on Adam Morrison's face (I couldn't find a picture of it, but think Jimmy Fallon with only about 100 individually detectable hairs protruding from his upper lip...purely revolting)

How can Sean Salisbury make comments like, "Peyton Manning could run this offense all by his self," and still have a job as a reporter? (Possible universal truth about the annoyance of ESPN paying "gomers" like Salisbury to make ridiculous statements to keep things "controversial" and/or the fact that Salisbury's "feud" with John Clayton is about as legitimate as John Clayton's chance of ever actually playing football)

The Seahawks have the second best record in football... They are playing the team with the best record at Seattle in the second to last game of the season, outdoors in an unforgiving Seattle Winter... do the Hawks have a chance, albeit a small one, to stop the perfect season? (Stay calm David don't get ahead of yourself, don't set yourself up for another huge disappointment.)

I am not, I repeat, not a Longhorn supporter. However, Vince Young deserves the Heismen...Period! Everyone is going gaga over Bush's ridiculous 500+ game, but that number is being used in an incredibly misleading way. The fact that Bush's kick return yardage is included inflates the number past what should really be considered earned yardage. I don't know the exact numbers but suppose Bush caught 4 returns, he was most likely able to run at least 15 yards up field before anyone touched him. If he got tackled as soon as he approached the kickoff team then that gives him 60 yards without doing anything that any other skill position player could do. On the other hand Young earned 267 passing and 239 rushing against an Oklahoma State team that did everything they could to win. Sunday morning the genius on ESPN's morning College football show defiantly asked, "When was the last time any of the other candidates got 500 all purpose yards?" Umm... two weeks ago...Vince Young, but I am not a UT fan.

I am officially jumping on the West Virginia bandwagon. How can I not root for Pittsnoggle and the rest of the Mountaineers? It just feels right.

Now that the Sonics suck again, it is almost impossible for me to care about them or anyone else in the NBA until the playoffs. I know this sounds ridiculous for me to say, but I think of all professional sports the NBA GM is the easiest GM position. Take the Sonics this off season for example. I would like to think that someone at some time in some meeting somewhere would have this to say to Sonics GM Rick Sund, "If you let Nate McMillon and Antonio Daniels go, and if you don't do anything to make Radmonvic happy through a better contract, we will LOSE BASKETBALL GAMES!" In fact, I think that there probably could be a fairly simple checklist or flowchart that a NBA GM could reference every time he was considering making a move. For instance some one says, "Hey maybe we should trade for Vince Carter." The GM could pull out his we-are-going-to-have-to-pay-a-huge-multiyear-contract-flowchart and start at 1. Aside from putting up a lot of points, can he lead a team in at least 2 major statistical categories? 2. Will he be good for team chemistry? 3. Has he ever lead a team deep into the playoffs? 4. Are we going to be paying him not to play because he is injury prone? And so on. Since the GM would have to answer "No" to the first three and "Yes" to the last one could conclude that picking up Vince would be a bad move. Another reason that the NBA GM position is the easiest in professional sports, is simply because you have the least amount of people to worry about. Football is truley the ultimate team sport because you have to worry about 22 different starters, not to mention 38 other guys on the roster. In basketball you only have to worry about 5 starters, and a bench where three or four of those guys are not yet 20 and could care less what there contract is or if they are getting any playing time. I am not saying that I could be one, I am just saying I think I could advise one.

Are the Marlins about to pull off another fire sale like they did after the one the World Series?

2005-11-16T14:21:00.000-06:00

I need to do a little explaining. I am trying out the new "Hello" picture option for my blog and wanted to put the following three pictures into the same entry but couldn't. I decided that I would just do one after other but I should have remebered that I would need to publish the last one first and first one last so that it would be in order. Needless to say I published them out of order and so now to read the blog as it was intended you need to drop down three blogs (they are all dated the same) and read from the bottom up. I hope you enjoy

Here he is in his halloween costume. Go Go Go-rillia. It is so much fun to watch him grow through the onslaught of pictures that we take of him, I am glad for the times I can watch him grow with my own eyes.

2005-11-16T14:18:00.000-06:00

However, the little dude grew and I can't wait to meet the strapping young toddler that he has become. This weekend I will actually get to play with him and discover the personality that he is developing. It is odd how you care so much more for a child simply because of who his parents are. Don't get me wrong, kids and I get along pretty good. However, Jeb is so much more special to me because of who Matt and Michella are to me. Family is a hard thing to quantify. How much do they really mean to you? What would your life be like had you never known them? How much of who you are is determined by their life choices? I think the answer to the last question is, "more than we will ever know." Which is why I am joyful that I am in the families I am. No one is perfect but the choices they make on a consitent basis can create moments and objects that reflect ultimate perfection. I think my nephew is an example of that

2005-11-16T14:10:00.000-06:00

Being an uncle is great. I really have not spent a whole lot of time with the little guys since his birth (around the time of this picture). And the times I have been around him he was so much of an infant that all you could do was hold him (as if that were not equally satisfying).

Universal Truth #2

2005-11-13T15:23:00.000-06:00

This is the second of two UTDs (Universal Truth of Dave) the hugely poplar UTD #1 is archived on Sept 19, since then I have attempted at "regional truths" in hopes that they become UTDs. The regional truths were rightfully shot down by readers who respect the sovereignty of a UTD, because to gain UTD status takes a remarkable and profound truth. With out further ramblings, I give to you, the faithful reader, UTD #2. "The NFL sideline hat is year in and year out the most hideous sport apparel item on the market."

Identity in Democracy...blah, blah, blah

2005-11-10T20:19:00.000-06:00

For those of you wondering why I have not posted in several days it is because I have been working feverishly on a paper due a week from today. I hope to finish it tomorrow and if any of you would like to read my thoughts on the ethics of admission into voluntary identity groups, I will gladly send you what will probably be about 8 pages of pure crap...but seriously if anyone wants to read it, some critique would be lovely.

A Man in Thought

2005-11-08T07:29:00.000-06:00

Hope mounts yet again for the Seahawk nation, and yes we all realize that it very well could be false hope. As hawk fans look at the remainder of their schedule people like guest columnist Matt Sessions (via personal e-mail, in no way knowing that I would publish his thoughts on a public forum, good thing its just the internet) voice their logical excitement for what the future holds. (I can't italisize on this internet provider so excuse the poor grammar)

"Is this the year Dave? Is this the year? Who else is going to beat them in the NFC? NY, Wash, Dallas, Philly, Atlanta, Carolina, even Chicago are all good - but are any unbeatable - no way. (by the way we are 2-1 against those teams). If the season ended today, after tiebreakers, the hawks would be the #1 seed in the NFC. They're 6-2, & their schedule plays out nicely with 4 games remaining against teams with a combined total of 7 wins (San Fran twice, Green Bay, & TN). The other games are at home vs St Louis & NYG & on the road against Philly & Indy. Can they go 2-2 in those games? 12-4 isn't out of the question. 11-5 seems more than likely. That will win the division, & maybe even the first ever first round bye. After that who knows? Can they do it Dave? Can they do it? Or am I going to get kicked in the nuts again? However it turns out, I wouldn't have it any other way. The excitement of rooting for a perennial underachiever is just how I roll. The dream of the improbable is much more gratifying than the realization of the expected. That's why I hate the Yankees."

Amen my friend, Amen. I want to address two things specifically. First, I can't tell the rest of the world who don't understand what a first round bye for the Hawks would mean to everyone. It would hopefully translate into a second round win (and if you read any of my posts early this summer a playoff win is all I really want for this year/decade) and that would put us farther into the playoffs than this franchise has ever been.

Second, I could not have voiced my hatred for the Yankees any better. How can any Yankee fan really call themselves a baseball fan, they obviously prioritize their team in front of the game itself, and seem to only seek the instant gratification that money insures. But in a way I think I can feel sorry for them. I mean do any of them actually watch the first part of the season? Are they all just tuning in to see what happens in the off season? That isn't the excitement that baseball should provide, they are missing out on all the emotions and hope that goes along with the anticipation of your teams chances. For one to know the completeness of hope, he must first know the ache of dispare. Yankees suck, Go Hawks, I'm out!

"You want me to talk about my feelings of inadequacy with Mike Ditka!?"

2005-11-06T22:31:00.000-06:00

Since the last post was pretty heavy and probably more opinionated than most people wanted to hear about, I am going to write a light hearted post that is more opinionated than anyone asked for. That's right, Kristin and I rented two more movies since our last mega-movie watching weekend and since we just joined Netflix there will probably be more Dave movie rental reviews to come (We have not actually yet received our first movie from Netflix but so far it is everything that I have ever hoped the movie rental industry to be, maybe I am setting myself up for disappointment). This week movies were both picks by Kristin. I repeat, I was only present during one of the purchases and even then I was only doing so because Kristin was feeling sick at the time.

Movie #1, "The Perfect Man." This movie, staring Heather Locklear and Hillary Duff, is everything you don't want in a predictable chick flick movie, with one of the chief elements being obscene predictability. I give this movie, generously, 1 full star. I feel that since the producers/directors/writers of this movie decided not to compose a complete script/movie/single idea I will do them justly by not wasting any of my time explaining to you how bad of a movie this was. Even Kristin, who will always throw a movie a bone if it is "cute," did not like any part of it. "The Perfect Man" is to the chick flick genre what "House on Haunted Hill" is to the scary movie drama. That is, setting a standard for the most cheeky, cliche' ridden, lack of effort on every level, generally worst of its kind, standard for its respective genre.

Movie #2, "Kicking and screaming." I was not holding my breath for this movie because I heard it was bad, and because the last movie I saw where it seemed like they had a workable script, until some exec said, "hey, I think we might be able to get Ferrel as the lead" and then they completely rewrote it for him ("Bewitched"), was mediocre at its very best. I was pleasantly surprised, however, with "kicking and Screaming." It was actually pretty funny and played on some issues that Ferrel is genius at making light of, especially the whole, grown-up-man-who-is-dealing-with-issues-of-insecurities character. I thought the scene where his wife gave him some advice because she was sick of hearing him complain about himself was so funny that I made it my title. In the end of give the movie 2 1/2 stars and say, if you have seen everything else and just have to get a new release, this one is for you.

Finally I want to leave you with this picture and a thought for the day.
Pants are like the pipes underneath your sink. You don't appreciate how much you daily rely on them until they stop working properly.

I want YOU to know, Fitty supports Bush.

2005-11-02T10:03:00.000-06:00

Evidently Mr. Fitty didn't think Mr. West's comments about Mr. Bush were called for in this funny story. Apparently Curtis "Fitty" Jackson believes that there was nothing human beings could have done to prevent the destruction that Katrina dealt the city of New Orleans. And to that I whole heartedly agree.

However, in an attempt to be somewhat nostalgic (if that is even an appropriate word for the circumstances)I bought the daily New Orleans news paper the day I arrived. I thought it would be a good way to remember the state of the city when I arrived on October 21'st, more than a month after the storm. The head story is where Mr. Jackson's opinion as well as Mr. West's opinion differ from my own (you have really got to read this story, it is an example of journalism at its best and one that will define what I consider relevant reporting for the rest of my life). I don't believe that anybody on any level of government acted carelessly because they hate black people. I don't want to assign motive for people's carelessness to anyone because of the simple fact that to do so would be speculation. However, people acted carelessly after the storm and, while 50 is correct in saying that no one could have prevented the storm (thanks for that brilliant observation), an infinite amount of things could have been done after the Katrina that weren't. Obviously Brown was not qualified for the job of FEMA director, and Bush has to be, on some level, responsible for delegating a job of this caliber to a man unfit to perform it. I don't know what else to say other than I am extremely saddened by what happened after the storm. I don't know if Brown got Bahamonde's messages and ignored them because he is some sort of sadist and he knew exactly what was going to happen. I would like to think that he is not an evil person and just ignored every warning, that is; every weather man saying "a storm of biblical proportions," every advisor saying, "send help now, it's like nothing else ever before," or ever citizen of New Orleans looking into a camera and telling the nation, "We need the help that we are not getting," and decided not to act because he was scared.

Not that it is about my well being but, I think I could forgive somebody's cowardice before I could forgive their lack of empathy or hatred if that be the case. I guess I am just at a loss for why what happened in the Super Dome happened. I don't feel the need for somebody to pay a large price, I am just sad that it happened. Americans lived like swine for days and even weeks because no one set in motion the chain of recourses that exist to prevent people from having to experience what they did. It didn't have to happen.

Remeber God knows and loves Bush, Brown, Bohamande, 50, Kayne West, and the people who used to be of New Orleans, they are all just men and women...pray for them.

Just Seven

2005-10-31T12:34:00.000-06:00

I found a poem today by the former editor of Mission Journal and minister to the Churches of Christ, Victor L. Hunter

Great gusty waves roll shoreward, a changing mixture
of wind and sand and water.

A father contemplates the texture of child's play
as he observes his daughter.

Just seve, unmarred by this world's fear and failure
she ventures out to meet hte tides thrust.

A time of learning and adventure, testing courage,
and thrilling to the challenge of each windy gust
which bring waves higher, certitude lower.

But in her willingness she discovers inner faith
and with it a kind of quiet power.

With age, it seems, we settle down, no longer
thrilling to life's excitement.

We know too well man's frailty and folly, and with
life's pain comes our resentment.

So growing older, seldom bolder, we venture out
to risk no more.

No new horizons, nor faiths adventure, we stay
secure on our familiar shore.

After all, we need not suffer for this earth's problems
when in our future there is heaven.

And yet, on rare occasion, we long to have the vision
of the little child of seven.

Matt. 18:3 He said, "For sure, I tell you, unless you have a change of heart and become like a little child, you will not get into the holy nation of heaven.

how humbling

Gas and movies

2005-10-30T09:10:00.000-06:00

This morning I was watching meet the press when a BP commercial came on. They asked a woman if she had any pressing questions for oil companies. Basically her question, a really good one, was this, "Why are we still so dependent on oil particularly foreign oil, and who is making steps away from this?" BP came back with the response that they are STARTING to look into drilling for oil in the gulf coast, and they are STARTING to research the possibility of solar and hydrogen power cars. To which I say, "O, well I'll be darned, because I thought we were STARTING to look into those things when I was 8!" Why has there been no progress on this? Yes I know hybrid cars are here and that's great it really is, but the question is why are we still pumping our great new hybrids with foreign oil? Why oil alone? My favorite part of the BP commercial was, and I am not kidding about this, the tag line at the end of the commercial read, and I am still not kidding about this, "BP...It's a start." I am flabbergasted. Why are Americans so content with in your face mediocrity?

This weekend Kristin and I rented three movies and, as John and Jennifer can attest, we are really more of the movie renting type as opposed to the movie going type. Why? Because were poor. So in retaliation to my good friend Daniel Carlson who rates new movies, I will give my opinion on New Release movies that the "son of Carl" has probably already reviewed.
Movie #1. "Bewitched." I will give this movie 2 1/2 starts. Ferrel was of course funny because anything he does is funny, however, it was, in the end, still a spin off movie and we all know that those type of movies have a glass ceiling and we should all just expect mediocrity. Kidman was also fairly good in this movie, but again it was an attempt at being a not so remake, remake of a 1960's tv show.
Movie #2. "The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants." I am going to completely forgo any conceptions of masculinity and embrace my whole questionably gay self by admitting, I liked it. It didn't follow the obnoxious outline of your typical chick flick movie. You know what I am talking, about they same one they have used for 30 years in recent movies like "How to Lose a Guy in 10 days," "13 going on 30," "Maid in Manhattan," "Two Weeks Notice," and "The Wedding Planner" (I could go on ad nosium). This movie actually had an interesting and new plot idea, character development, beautiful and diverse scenery, as well as interesting issues, though at times not well developed, that are not often tackled in this genre. I am going to give it 3 stars and say that guys, if you owe your wife/significant other a chick flick this one aint so bad.
Movie #3. "Batman Begins" I liked this movie on a lot of levels. Unlike most pre-quels "BB" is more than just a filling in of holes from previous story lines. It actually sacrifices some accuracy in areas to make the story more interesting in others. It can both stand on its own as a good movie but also answers some questions about the previous(?later?) movies. Also, I am not one to go gaga over a movie with a cool car but Batman's conversion of a car that was made to be a bridge builder during combat, was pretty cool. I actually found myself thinking, "man I would love to drive that." Side note, that thought never occurred to me at any moment during either "Fast and Furious,' or "2 Fast and 2 Furious" (Speaking of those movies I would like to suggest a new name for this genre, the slow and silent killers. Other movies on this list would include "House on Haunted Hill," "The Longest Yard," and "Speed 2.") So I give "BB" 3 1/4 stars and I would suggest it to anyone wanting to watch a good thoughtless movie. Which reminds me of another genre I would like to create for future rental reviews. The genre of the good movie where I don't have to think at all, such movies would include "National Treasure," and "Paparazzi."

In a related story here is a picture of something I saw on my way back from New Orleans.
If you see this picture and do not find it funny and are wondering how anyone could find it funny please see my previous post ...I have an obnoxious personality.

Cleaning Day

2005-10-29T14:11:00.000-05:00

For those of you who know me well you know that this is generally how I would feel if Kristin informed me that today is cleaning day (This is actually a picture of my nephew Jeb... but he doesn't like to clean either). It's not as though I don't like being clean, I do, it's just I hate cleaning. But today something interesting came out of it. I found a personality profile that I had to take at the beginning of the semester. Normally when I am told I have to take one of these I feel like this, because they usually get me only partially right and are, in the words of my esteem colleague Austin Henley, "A huge beatdown." However, as I started reading through the results of this one I came to some pretty interesting conclusions, but first the results. There are 5 factor areas called; neuroticism, extroversion, openness, agreeableness and conscientiousness, and underneath each factor are 6 facets that deterime the factor score. I scored average on neuroticism and agreeableness so I will not waste any time speaking about those with the exception of this, the highest score of the entire test was in the facet of "impulsiveness" underneath the factor of neuroticism. I scored "very high" on extroversion and "high" in the factor of openness, with the facet being fantasy, and the low facet being values. Finally, my only low factor score on the entire test was in the area of conscientiousness, with the lowest of low facet scores being competence. Let's sum this up, I am an extremely impulsive person who fantasizes often, has low values, and is quite incompetent. OUCH!

It's been a long time

2005-10-26T09:19:00.000-05:00

I was dumbfounded in class recently when a professor who always seems so complex laid out what is important in his life. He said, "I want to answer the question, 'Who is God?' and, 'What does that mean to us?' Everything else is trivia." The professor, Dr. Hamilton, is a professor of Old Testament and to hear him say that amidst all the complexities that the Old Testament presents is, to me, astonishing. I must say that it is also extremely refreshing.

This semester has been really hard for me. I have been forced to grow so much because every class and every professor requires more of me than I was prepared to, or maybe even able to, offer. Yet, to hear from a man whose academic excellence will always be light years ahead of my own that everything he has learned has been in quest of that simple, yet terribly significant, question has given me clarity. I am confident that we will never be able to answer that question but I know that it is in the seeking of the question that we will find for ourselves all things good, even salvation. This question has even given me more motivation, because now I am able to remind myself when I do not feel like being stretched that the knowledge I am seeking will lead me to a more whole understanding of who God is. Furthermore, I am beginning to wonder if someone as small as myself will be used by someone as big as God to help the centuries long quest for the second part of that question, "what does that mean to us/His church." Will even I be expected to lead people to that end? That is tough.

On a completely separate note, I want to use this space to talk a little bit about a trip I recently took to New Orleans. I am even worried a bit to speak about it because it can easily be taken for self admiration. So I hope my readers don't imagine me as someone who envisions himself as noble enough to help people who need it because, in complete honesty, it was my great honor to serve them.

I drove in last Friday and was shocked to see that as close as twenty miles away mobile homes had not even suffered wind damage. However, as soon as we passed over the causeway on I-10 it was a completely different story. My words are not good enough to describe the sights or smells of a city that is, in a word, destroyed. Really, the pictures on TV are not good enough either. It is something your whole body experiences. The house I helped gut was probably beautiful before the hurricane. However, after weeks of standing water, it was revolting. As we were cleaning the kitchen several cans of beans spilled and burst open. The smell was too much. Even through our respirators people immediately began to get sick and before any more work could be done the beans were removed. The families swimming pool was filled with flood waters and it was pitch black. I thought to myself as I stood and tried to comprehend, if I fall in to this swimming pool, I very well could die, the water would kill me. In the residential part of town, the defining piece of the skyline is no longer the architecturally magnificent homes, or the buildings that epitomize character, but three trash heaps. Each of the heaps are for items that have been gutted from homes that can not be mixed. Appliances and chemical related goods in one, wood and the interior of homes in another, and trees in a third. The heaps are about a quarter of a mile long, fifty yards wide, and forty feet high. They are enormous. Cars that were abandoned and displaced in inconvenient places have been moved to medians and are covered with dust to the point where the original color is undetectable. They appear to one as ghosts, oddly observing the work that is being done, only an apparition of what they once were, and absolutely eerie.

I think what will separate the citizens of New Orleans from each other is hope. It appears as though hope, like everything else, hope was a commodity. For some, it died with everything else, for others it was the only thing that rose above the floods. It is those who will survey the unending damage of a destroyed city and keep hope that will remain. Because it is not just those citizens of New Orleans who have a damaged, yet still living, hope or dead hope, but an entire nation. Who could have imagined this? Can this destruction be even past God? Even if God is powerful enough, will he restore this destroyed city? Brother and Sisters, I do not imagine myself a prophet and I am extremely self conscious about writing all of this down in such a public domain, but keep hope because at the end of time it will not be people hoping that remain but faith, hope and love, and the greatest is love.

Shama Oh' Israel, the Lord God is One, and you must love him.

A poor man's entertainment

2005-10-16T20:37:00.000-05:00

Seeing everybody this weekend was a real treat. I never get tired of bragging about my friends, they are they best in the world.

This is what comes up when you google "Joel Weckerly," Deb, you are truly a patient woman, I solute you!

Listening to Lou Pinella on the ALCS is like playing a 90's version of John Madden football. All of his comments sound only somewhat appropriate and always comes off awkwardly timed. Also it sounds like he records basic phrases in one studio session then records the names in another so their is an awkward pause in between the phrase and name. i.e. "Another great defensive play by...Chone Figgens."

Austin Henley believes that the Cowboys upcoming schedule, which includes the Seattle Seahawks, will be an easy way to a 6-2 record going into the by week. Here is what I hate about Austin, he is probably right. No one else has the guts to make the claim that Austin just has because the Seahawks offense helps them play each game competitively. But from a hawks fan's perspective, every week is like the nervous feeling you got in middle school from the time you realized you were about to get beat up for the first time to when you got beat up for the first time. Your heart beats outside of your chest, you feel like you want to go poo, and you can't stop your hands from shaking. This is the feeling of every hawk fan right before game time. Even this week when we play the lowly Texans, if our offense doesn't show up we could very well lose to the worst team in the league. And just like getting beat up for the first time, the beating is not as bad as the anticipation.

I couldn't find anything interesting when I googled "Austin Henley" so I googled "Justin Scott" and here is what you get . Three thoughts for my buddy Scotty, J. 1: Nice catch shark hunter 2: You have better abbs than Weckerly's picture 3: Have you never heard of the "catch and release" policy?

I love you all

SIXTH!, SIXTH!, SIXTH!

2005-10-13T08:35:00.000-05:00

Last night before church my brother called me and excitedly asked, "have you checked the leaderboards lately?" To which I replied, "No, how are you doing?" What happened next was a 28 year old man yelling at the top of his lungs while (I am pretty sure about this) he was driving home from work in rush hour traffic into a cell phone, "SIXTH!, SIXTH!, SIXTH!" Which would only be pathetic if I stopped the explanation there. I would like to proudly report that out of more than 70,000 entries my brother is currently, you guessed it, SIXTH! on the leaderboards for ESPN's Gridiron challenge, you can see it here http://games.espn.go.com/gridiron/leaderboard . In case you have never had the opportunity to meet Matt here is a picture of him. This is at very crowded restaurant on my 21'st birthday, his gift to me is taking pictures in very public places while performing an egalitarian-esque pose. It gets me guys, it gets me better than anything else, and you would think it was pretty funny too, that is if you don't already.

On a less odd subject Kristin has come out of blog retirement and actually changed her address to something a little more simple, a little more logical, you can read it here kristinsessions.blogspot.com . And here is what is really funny. My family obviously equals weird and amusing only because we are amusing ourselves, and Kristin, who before June 25th was a fairly normal person, is now one of us. She can never go back to normal. Pretty soon she is going to begin to do things only a Sessions would do/have done (i.e. make a new years resolution to count the number of times she flatulates in one year, pout for hours when she realizes she likes a Seattle sports team, wake herself up because she can no loner control the frequency or volume of her nighttime belches.) God bless you my dear wife, You are now one of us!

Blogging on the Clock

2005-10-10T11:44:00.000-05:00

Sunday morning I was watching a Fox News pannel discusion where two senators, both southern Republicans, were defending the nomination of Mier to the Supreme Court. I thought everyone was against this, does she actually have a ligitmate claim? I want to know what my pre-lawyer readers think about this.

Is it wrong of me that, despite the fact that he was have severe health problems, and despite the fact that he was playing against my team, and despite the fact that he was coaching the team I love to hate, I was not routining for the Seahawks or against the Rams, but against Mike Martz himself?

Why do I hate every single #1 team in all of the land, regardless of sport, profesional or collegiate and geography?

Is it logical? By this I mean do I hate the Yankees because I think they are bad for baseball? Is it because I don't like the players on each of these teams regardless of the fact that they win a lot (i.e. San Antonio...Those guys kill me!)? Or is it more jealousy? I wish that was my team winning a lot.

Cheif Wahoo has left the building

2005-10-06T12:22:00.000-05:00

Don't worry Joel, It's not what you think it is.
I would just like to point out something to those of you who may not have been paying attention as closely as I have. Others such as my good friend Ausitn have written about this already and you can find more info in his blog archives, but I digress. Currently the NCAA and several of its schools are in a heated dispute over some of the schools mascots. Some have deemed such mascots as the Florida State Seminol offensive to Native American peoples. However, Flordia State argues that while they have a Native American as their mascot, in no way do they take advantage of or, disrespect such a strong heritage before, during or after their athletic competitions. Furthermore, the name in and of itself is not as offensive as some previous schools Mascots that have already been changed (i.e. St. John's RedMen). I really have little personal opinion on the matter because on one hand I believe that a mascot, while treated with respect, could honor a people, but at the same time we will never have the New Jersey Jews because that would be blatantly offensive. My real point in saying all of this is that the NCAA is obviously just concerened with those teams that get national coverage in big markets and not with an across the board rule change that affects all schools on all levels. "Come on Dave," you might say "the NCAA is not only about money and keeping fans in big markets happy, you are just going off on an insane conspiracy thoery." Oh yeah, well then why have we not heard anything in the news about the team from Oklahoma that ACU played this last weekend? Thats right! the South Eastern Oklahoma SAVAGES! Quite possibly the most offensive Native American name one could possible dream up. I think that if I sat for an hour and tried my hardest to come up with something more degrading to all of human kind I would fall way short of "Savages." Friends, we can all agree that their is a vast difference between the Savages and the Seminoles, and the fact that Florida State is in one of the largest collegiate markets is no excuse for Flordia State to be acted upon while South Eastern Oklahoma remains in the dark ages. I would like to see ACU take the lead in the area of race relations (an area in which they have a poor history) by protesting the play of this school in all future athletic events scheduled with ACU untill they change their name. I would also like to see either our athletic directior, and/or president, blow the whistle on this blatant disregard for someone's heritage to the NCAA. Even if SEOS has no images of Native Americans the name Savages offends not only those that it belittles but everyone with a conscience for racial discrimination. The mission of ACU is to change the world. I think we can all agree it would be a better world without mascots like the Savages.

A mountain top experience

2005-10-04T18:19:00.000-05:00

I would like to apologize for not posting in a long time, as if any of you were actually offended. My excuse is that I have had a Greek Midterm to study for, and our internet connection has been on hiatus.

I would like to share with you something that I recently read on Mike Cope's blog (mikecope.blogspot.com), which is the skill of slowing down. Most of you who read this are either students or have only graduated within the last year and so I have to assume that we are inundated with this lesson on slowing down and enjoying life, so I will make this one different, shorter. I have found that by forsaking things that I "must" get done and spending that time on an attempt at some spiritual disciplines, I not only enjoy my life more in every way but also (and here is the kicker) seem to get all the "musts" done with more energy.

However, I question the two benefits of this decision that I have mentioned (enjoying life more, and getting things done with better efficiency) because I do not believe that, in and of themselves, they are the real point to it all, or even attributes of "the good life." I believe my next step in this process is to come into a better understanding of why I am making these decisions at all. And that is the understanding that, in truth and not for the sake of some false humility, I need saving on a daily basis.

Shama Oh' Israel, The Lord your God is ONE, and you must love him...

Word Up Wife(y)

2005-09-29T14:36:00.000-05:00

Today I helped Kristin start her own blog. There are traces of me through a lot of it so I am sure everyone will enjoy it, while her first true entry may be too cheesy for some, I thought it was nice. I paticularly influenced her picture (Jubulient George Castanza), and the name of the blog itself (good natured spoof on Cody's, while still very accurate, our house is always hot...and thats the way we like it). . P.S. I googled "cody blair" and this came up. I am pretty upset I was not invited Cody, did I really have to hear it through some cheap internet photography site? Your Dead to me Mr. Blair...DEAD!

A Spartan fights until the battle is complete

2005-09-25T22:22:00.000-05:00

Despite living in the city that is arguably the hardest to be a sports fan in, one team still gives me hope. The 2005 Skyline Spartan (my alma matter) fottball team went into this saturdays game ranked number 2 in the the states largest division, 4A. They played the number 10 ranked Bothel Cougarrs, and embarrased them 44-0. I feel strong ties to this paticular team because while my buddies and I were busy winning state our senior year the arguably two best players on this years team were 12 years old and busting their butt's chasing after our balls (I promise I did not mean for that to sound crude, they were our ball boys). (this is a picture of my buddy Mitch Browne, who still holds multiple state passing records. MItch if your reading this, and your probably not, let me know how your doing)

PS if you think that people only take football seriously in texas check out this website www.skylinegridiron.com . Do these parents have jobs?

Regional Truth

2005-09-24T12:23:00.000-05:00

This one is not yet a universal truth but only a regional truth (regional truth is to universal truth as tropical storm is to hurricane) so I will let my readers decide if it should upgrade. Here it is, "there is no city more difficult to be a die hard sports fan than Seattle." The evidence is simple. Three professional teams all originating between 67 and 76, one Championship. That means out of roughly 100 years of combined existence, one year was our year (79 sonics). Which means whenever a fan from Boston bemoans the century+ that the Red Sox could not win a championship, one could slap him in the face and remind him of the heavenly dynasty of the Celtics.

A Seattle talk radio show asked callers to call in and give a serious answer to the question what would you give for a Seattle team to win a championship, only serious answers need apply. Here are some of the answers, "left thumb because I am right handed, my job, $100,000, I would let somebody shoot me in the arm," If you think this is silly you should have heard the seriousness of the tone of voice...these fans, this city is desperate.

For further proof of a city full of people who (as the Sports Guy so adequately put it while referring to the Red Sox recent Championship) are waiting to die happy, I will lay out the tragic existence that is, surprisingly the team with the most die hard fans, the Seattle Seahawks. Since its inaugural season in 1976 the Seahawks have won three divisional championships (88,99,04) out of those only one occurred during the Seahawks existence in the worst division in football, the NFC West (possible universal truth). All of those three division championships resulted in a painful first round exit in the playoffs.

The Seahawks have actually made the playoffs only 7 times (83,94,87,88,99,03,04), think about those numbers for a minute. Out of nearly 30 years of existence the Seahawks can consider 7 of those years moderately successful. All playoff appearances have happened in my 22 years of existence but from the ages of 5-18 there were ZERO playoff appearances. Out of all of those years the Seahawks have a playoff record of 3-7. Yes, that is right one year we made it to the AFC conference championship (83) by winning two games, then the year after that we won one game and exited during the divisional playoffs, and every other year, 5 out of 7, has been a first round loss!

Lastly, and possibly most embarrassing, the Seahawks have inducted many into their ring of honor but we all know what really counts is a retired number. The Seahawks have retired two numbers, #12 and #80. The first one is not for an actual human being but for the fans, yes that is right we have gotten so pathetic we went Aggie and retired #12 (this is not saying that we did not earn ever bit of it), the next number that has been retired was by an actual homeo sapien and you better believe Steve Largent earned it all. However, that number was given up to Jerry Rice when came to the team (Largent was always the picture of class, coining the phrase, "when you score a touchdown, act like you have done it before), therefore, the only number that remains retired is #12. How pathetic, we are like the special ed middleschooler who runs around showing everyone his "thumbs up" grade he got in art for drawing within the line.

I submit for approval by committee in the hopes of being upgraded form regional to universal truth #2 "Seattle is the most difficult city to be a sports fan."

Universal truth #1

2005-09-19T23:55:00.000-05:00

http://store1.yimg.com/I/sportsunlimited_1861_21896050
As I learn about politcal and moral philosophy in my Christian Ethics class some terms get thrown around alot such as; "categorial imperative," or "universal moral just cause," to name a few. Basically the problem is that in a world of such divirsity it is almost impossible to get every person, even if they are thinking "morally" or "resonably," to agree on anything. However, I like to live my life with certain truths that no one will be ever able to convince me differently of. This may sound ignorante to some, but I will only consider myself ignorant when, again, thy can prove that I am wrong. Now, I am not going to just throw out anything. No! There are strict guidline for what passes for a "Universal Truth of Dave." This will be a list that will just grow as things comes to me, and again, It will not even be considered for a "UTD" unless I am pretty sure about it. Even when it does come under considerations it must pass certain guidlines wich I will tell you about later. Without further rambling here is the first in a long line of universal truths. If you disagree that is fine, but in the words of Jim Rome, "You better come with it," because I feel pretty confident about this one. "Universal Truth of Dave #1; No amount of UnderArmour will increase your ability to catch a football, and/or do anything else you would not normally be able to do."

Whoever said you don't learn anything by watching TV doesn't watch "Late Night with Conan Obrien"

2005-09-15T10:00:00.000-05:00

Last night Sir Anthony Hopkins was on Conan. He professed him self to be all "zenned out" now (Here he is playing Quasimodo, very un-zen). Nevertheless, I really appreciated what he had to say regarding how he takes the pressure of theatre students when he guest lectures at UCLA. He asks them " do you think that if you stop acting the world will stop?" To which the obvious answer is no, and I believe that conclusion ultimately will draw one back to the original reason for doing what the love, the enjoyment of a craft. Consequently, Hopkins was able to take a lot of pressure of me as a student of theology. While one could argue that if everyone stopped learning/practicing theology, that it would indeed be very bad, I am hopeful that by re-learning what attracted me to this field in the first place, a desire to learn god's truths, I will be a better student, maybe a better Christian. Which is further proof that you can in fact relate everything back to sports. In 6th grade I decided I was going to get serious about following my boyhood dream of playing in the MLB. I put so much pressure on myself that I actually got worse, a lot worse. I bated under .200 in little league! That is really bad. At the end of the season I was so down on myself that by the time the next season rolled around I made only little improvement. In 8th grade I decided that I was going to rediscover that baseball is a lot of fun, I learned how to hit a curve ball and my team ended up wining the city championships. It was a great year. I had a lot of fun. Baseball is still my favorite sport. When at all possible, life should be thoroughly enjoyed.

The Kind

2005-09-11T20:17:00.000-05:00

I wanted to share with all of you the lyrics to my favorite song. It is not widely known by any means but as I have done with other songs I urge you to not only read the lyrics but go and listen to it because music is a medium that enhances words. It can give them new or even different meaning. This one is pretty strait forward but the great thing in the music is that the passion in Steve Earl's voice matches his words. I would also encourage you to read his most recent blog (which is pretty out dated). I don't agree with all of it but I can not overstate how much I appreciate his transparency with the issue at hand (He raises a topic, and points out a traditionally conservative inconsistency that needs to be talked about). Regardless here are the lyrics to my favorite song, Steve Earl's, The Kind

Tell me a story 'bout a fella with a crazy dream
Everybody tells him that it won't amount to anything
He fires the shot heard around the world
He wins the prize and he gets the girl
That's the kind of story I like – the kind that makes you think

Sing me a song about a cowboy with an achin' heart
Ridin' along the lonesome prairie 'bout to fall apart
Every time those doggies moan
He doesn't feel so all alone
That's the kind of song that I like – the kind that breaks your heart

Paint me a picture of a girl with a secret smile
Lookin' back at ya 'cross the years through ancient eyes
You're standin' there like an open door
'Cause she's seen it all before
That's the kind of picture I like – the kind that makes you sigh

Two of the peoples blogs who I enjoy reading most, Patrick Vincent and Justin Scott, have quotes on their pages by Andy Dufrene in Shawshank, that regard living well in the sense that we should live fully. I like those quotes and I like this song because in a similar way it talks about the feelings of life, in the sense that we were created to live and to live completely. This song, though it is only like 2 minutes long including a bridge, covers a vast array of emotions, and I think the thing about the song that gets me is that Earl makes me feel them with him. I experience the emotions he sets out to make me experience, and in a way his song becomes like the story, or the song, or the picture he sings about. It becomes a medium that makes people feel.

My point in all of this is that I think churches miss this all to essential part of life all to often. We are critical of Pentecostals who are in our minds, "way to much about experience." And to our defense maybe they do go to far, and maybe they only attempt to experience a certain set of feelings, which would be wrong in my opinion. However, I believe our charge should be to find these mediums that cause us to feel life. Worship time, sermons, prayer time, all of these should be mediums that, with out forsaking their initial purpose, we strive to make real enough for people to feel.

The personal implications of this may be to dangerous for many ministers to attempt. After all, it would require us to be as brutally transparent as Mr. Earl has decided to be. We may have to be public with our sins, and not just the ones that are not painful to tell a large group of people about. Church should never be a sterile free environment that we clean and make neat to the point that life cannot exist there. I think, though I am honestly afraid of what it would look like and maybe not even courageous enough to follow up on this, church should be messy! I think like Earl's blog is fraught with imperfections and statements that are often classified as "dangerous." I think that it would be the kind of church Jesus would like to go to. After all, has he not been the one who has made us feel more than anyone else in history? Is he not the creator of the human experience? Church should be a place where we go to experience, even feel the blessed trinity

Don't you hate Random thoughts

2005-09-08T12:18:00.000-05:00

I found another David Sessions who blogs it is actually pretty good.

Yesterday while I was reading in the "quiet place" I noticed a bird walk by the window which was only weird because it had not happened yet in two hours of reading there. 2 minutes later one of our infamous "wildcats" walked by with the same bird, dead in its mouth. Pretty dang cool!

Fred Aquino is smarter than I am

Christ forms a bond between two people that is unlike anything else.

I don't hate my dog, but sometimes I hate her actions (diareah in her kennel)

I feel bad about what America did to the American Indians.

Some mascots are not degrading.

Oprah probably could have wore more make up yesterday but was trying to give her "on-laction" shot a more authentic feel.

I trust Kristin when she says that Oprah is not a size 8 like she says she is.

Despite all her faults I still like Oprah

If a tree falls in the woods and no one is around to hear it, it does not actually make a sound because sound is defined as vibrations that disrupt the parts of the ear that send signals to your brain. Therfore, it just makes a lot of vibration but no acutal sound. Think about it!

I wish ACU offered a graduate class on the spirtuality of childrens books (I.E. Chronicles of Narnia, A Series of Unfortunate Events etc.)

I would take that class

I don't think blueberrys get the credit they really diserve.

Mark Gibson was more intimidating than me.

I joined a fantasy football league but no one else did

If Mexico treated us like we treat Mexicans, we would be mad.

If you live in a European Union country and then move to another EU country without becoming a citizen and just having a job, you can vote in that countries elections after three months of employment...That is messed up dude.

doesn't the word "obey" sound like pig latin?

"Full House" was not nearely as good as I thought it was, so why did I always watch it?

"The Wonder Years" was a lot better than I realzied it was and I wish I would have watched it more.

Sometimes I miss my family

I think in 20 years Seattle will start competeing with New York for the greatest city in the World, and no I will not do 3GB when I am 40 if I am wrong about this.

I feel really blessed to have been pledged so hard, I hope others get to experience it even if I never again get the pleasure of seeing others go through it. It realy is a good thing

I think Mike Spell is a great guy.

this is a funny picture

I should probably be more mature than I am

Shama

In the Year 2000

2005-09-07T02:30:00.000-05:00

The preceding has nothing to do with what may come out right now, rather it is just one image that the channel surfer in my brain has to pre-set (Yes! I have ADD, deal with it!). A lot of people have asked me recently, "So, how's grad school?" To which I have given one reply or another. If you are one of these people I apologize because the answer was probably long and drawn out and not what you really wanted to know. My true answer should have been, "{shoulder shrug} eh." Now, after three weeks of being called a "GSTer" I have all the answers the universe could posses and I can say with absolute clarity, "I really do like it." I like that I am being stretched intellectually, spiritually, emotionally as well as in my faith. I like the opportunities that I have that so many others do not (i.e. the opportunity to serve Katrina evacuees, the opportunity to study ancient texts, the opportunity to access files and records that others are kept from). But most of all, I like the people that I meet. Now, I don't mean meet in the sense that you shake a hand and learn a name, but meet as in get to know. The guys in my mentoring group have taught me so much in such a short amount of time, the professors actually make an effort to learn about you and where you are coming from, the other students look forward to learning from each other and spending time with one another. Regardless, this is just a much longer and more drawn out explanation than I have given you before and again, I apologize.
After reading CB's and Scotty J's latest blogs I want to express my deep appreciation for the community with which I am a part of. Some may be critical of what I am about to say but I really feel like if ACU's mission is to be a mission training post for those who wish to change the world, then they have succeeded. The hard part is leaving. I say this because we who have experienced it can all relate to Cody who comes back and is reminded of the support system that is a deep dwelling fountain that overflows with love and encouragement for him. Likewise, as Justin so adequately put it I see people asking "what can I do." However, not just in the most recent disaster, but everyday. I see it when they pour themselves out to make their social clubs better, or when they lead a welcome week activity to make scared freshman not so afraid or plain homesick. I see it in missions that pop up all over this hurting city (Christ Kids, Breakfast at Beal St., Hope Church of Christ etc.) Again though, it is now, or soon will be, in the hands of those who dare to leave this place and Change the World as the have been preparing to for such a time as this. And when we are afraid, and when the task seems greater than our wills, let us remember the encouragement Cody experienced, a missionary on furlough.

I WANT YOU!

2005-09-06T13:30:00.000-05:00

To understand this you must consult the previous blog. If anyone is reading this, and now I hope they are more than ever. I just overheard conversation in the library of the "night riders" as they are calling themselves, to ride tonight. I beg of you, anyone, go find Kool (AKA Bob White) and de-Kool the night riders tonight! I would love to go with anyone who is willing. The challenge is in your hands now. Who will answer the call?!

Sub-T should become co-ed

2005-08-31T11:56:00.000-05:00

At roughly 11:00 last night, while I was driving to the Bible building at ACU to look for my wallet, I picked up on a faint chant that seemed to be coming from somewhere on the campus. I got out of my car and the chant grew louder and it became obvious that it was coming from a large group of people. I decided that an inquiry was worth my time, so when I caught a glimpse a couple of people on bikes I decided to follow. I chased the cadence to the "UP" apartments and thought that I had lost them when I turned the corner and, to my dismay, they were coming directly at me! There were about 45-50 idiots on bikes chanting, to the cadence of the infamous sub-t 16 "nuts and bolts, nuts and bolts...We got screwed" intramural chant, "it's Tuesday night, where's your bike? It's Tuesday night where's your bike? We own the road!" It became apparent that their objective was to intimidate all motor vehicle drivers with their sheer force in numbers. I was so irritated that I was at a lose for words and simply drove by. The hilarious thing was that the chant was being led by several young males while the vast majority of the riders appeared to be somewhat gaunt looking underclassmen females, who apparently don't get out much. Furthermore, the chant/apparent whole purpose the chant, was immediately underminded by their impeccable roadside courtesy. Everyone got out of my way! Now, I must confess that I was really trying not to report this because I really didn't want to give them the attention that they so obviously crave, however, I feel the need to tell others on the ACU campus of where I fell short. That is, of course, the lack of a swift and painful "de-kooling" that must take place. In fact take Kool with you so that they can hear it from the godfather's own mouth. I repeat, this needs to happen, if not Kool himself then you! If you are reading this it is your obligation to "de-kool" this sub-culture bike gang.

Shama

Grad School Playas

2005-08-30T14:12:00.000-05:00

Before I begin I wanted to include the picture that is of me (far left) and my other Grad School of Theology cohorts. Don't let our good looks fool you, we are total dorks.
I have my second intermediat greek quiz (quiz is pretty misleading for 50 vocab words and 5 lists) and I think I am actually somewhat prepared. It is not so much of an accomplished feeling as it is just comforting. It is comforting to know that I will not feel like I did last week, becasue last week I was definately the dumb kid in the class who gave serious consideration to dropping the course.
Basically I am rambling here, the only other thing that I feel like might be somewhat intersting in my life is that I made myself throw up last night because I was feeling really bad after I ate 4 double cheeseburgers from McDonalds (provided by my friends at Intramurals) and then played softball, and after that rode my bike home...bon apetit!

Whaaaaaat?!

2005-08-29T10:55:00.000-05:00

I just finished writting my first paper for grad school and I could not feel like more of an idiot. I mean it's a paper that was supposed to be one of those "there is no wrong answer" type of papers, but I'm pretty sure I still screwed it up somewhere. I think the most frustrating thing so far is constant state of wondering if your up to it all. Right now I don't really know if I am. I hope that I am just making this up in my head, and if you are actually reading this please understand that I am not fishing for compliments.
On a lighter not I start two jobs today, Intramurals and a GA position in the Center for Restoration studies. The CRS job starts in five minutes and I am pretty excited about it. I think working this closely to the heritage of our movement will be exciting. And you know, even though the intramural gig only pays you $5 to be yelled at, degraded, and basically just told your a horrible person, I got to admit, I love every minute of it. I wonder if that means I am in the wrong buisness?

A day that will not be forgotten

2005-08-22T18:04:00.000-05:00

Today is one of those days that will forever have a moderate to large folder in Dave's memory bank file cabinet. I will remember primarily for the two large events that serve as crossroads for myself and for people I care about. In a small event today, I began my first class of my first year of graduate school. I can still remember standing outside of my first class at ACU four years ago today and thinking, "I have no clue what I am about to get into." At that moment it was a handful of people standing outside of Dr. Eisenhowers Astronomy class. Their was one or two people who played significant roles in my life but mostly they were extras. From that day until graduation the number of people influenced by and my being influenced that resulted in my decision to go to ACU increased daily. In the same way but slightly different, it is my prayer that my decision to attend ACU for three more years will have profound impact on myself and, more importantly, the world around me. I ask that God will use me, inspight of me, to bring this world into a place where He is continually glorified, continually sought after.
On a larger playing field the entire community of ACU celebrated its 100th anniversary today, (I was thinking though, if the first chapel was opened in 1906 and today's opening chapel is 2005, wouldn't it be the 99th year? I'm sure I'm missing some info somewhere). Anyway, I think the theme for this blog is how God uses average decisions to effect the world for completely unaverage, supernatural even, purposes. 100 years ago people decided to integrate faith and knowledge to make Childers Classical institute. Today the entire world has felt the ramifications of that decision. It occurs to me though, are not these decisions that God uses so largely, in fact not one decision but the continual determination and conviction of God's people to continue in the path that He has laid before them? My decision to stay at ACU was one that I made daily when I decided to; study, make friends, make mistakes, meet a girl... Similarly the decision to make ACU, "no ordinary university" is not just from the first president, Barrett, but a continual decision by many men from Barret, to Stevens, to Money to make this place, be it by pain, poverty or prosperity a truly 'awe'some university. God uses the decisions that we make at the crossroads of life, if we seek after Him, to bless His children with His great inheritance.

Shama Oh' Israel

Say Whaaaaat?!

2005-08-22T08:44:00.000-05:00

In an interesting side note, I am scheduled to teach a class at Southern Hills Church of Christ, next Sunday that I will not be nor have had any intention of ever teaching...who knew?

Shama

a new one

2005-08-14T10:17:00.000-05:00

Today I am teaching my first adult class at church. While my Mother and Father are spending the night in downtown Seattle after watching a B.B. King concert I am taking over my Dad's class on the Stone-Campbell movement. It is a little scary to be teaching your first adult class, let alone taking over someone else's position, let alone in the same church you grew up in. If anyone is reading this, I would appreciate your prayers, and if you want I will let you know how it went later.

Refiners fire

2005-08-12T12:39:00.000-05:00

There really is not any other way to express the way that I feel about my hometown than conflicted. Deeply conflicted. The microcosm for this state that I am in, is reflected perfectly in the Friday morning paper. I open up the newspaper our family subscribes to (Seattle Times, less liberal brother to the Seattle Post intelligencer) and I think to myself, "I love this newspaper. I love the sports writers like Steve Kelly (always toting the line between objective and fanatical, but always intriguing to me) I love the fact that the weekend section is filled to the brim with 'A-list' and really really good 'B-list' concerts, I love that you can look in the dining section and get presented with 23 different new restaurant all within 45 minutes of where I live. I love that I will never get to try them all. But, I can trust that when I try the ones with good reviews they will be worth my while." Then I put the paper down and think, "I really love this place." Then I pick the Faith&Values section. I see an add for the "The City Church." This is the church whose TV add is always trying to force the nickname that they created for themselves when the over emphasize "The City" and then try to tie in the last word in their name into a separate sentence so it sounds like this. "The City, Church for the twentyfirst century." People and/or organizations should never try to self nick name. Then there is also a article on a book to be published by the Mormon church that claims that though Mormons believe in a different Jesus than the rest of traditional Judeo Christianity, they are still Christians and they do not believe they are the only ones who are saved. I don't want to go into everything I know or dislike about "The City, Church" or the Mormon Church, rather, I want to express my worry for the people of this city that I appreciate so much. I see all of Seattelites as a part of God's wonderful creation in this place, but so many are searching for more meaning behind life. I mean where else is God's creative ability more wonderfully displayed. When one looks upon the Cascade or Olympic Mountain ranges that sandwich the city, or when one hikes in the Issaquah foothills to be overwhelmed by His awesome majesty, how completely insignificant and unsatisfying are the answers that come from mere evolution. That is why so many here question, that is why there are so many trying to answer those questions, and, at times, telling them whatever their itching ears want to here. There is a deep need in this place for; the gospel of difficult grace, for the God of 7 day creation, the chance to be worked over as rough silver until the great Refiners reflection may be seen in all of us as it is in this landscape. The people are begging for answers and yet the man/woman/team who will finally make a difference is the one who will not answer to the masses but will answer to an audience of One, and thus change this cities masses forever. At times, I worry that I am not courageous enough.

Shama Oh' Israel

The Evergreen State

2005-08-09T12:01:00.000-05:00

It has been way to long since I have written here. Currently, I am in Seattle, my hometown, visiting my parents with my wife. It was probably the most impulsive thing that I have done in a long time but, a week ago today I was on the phone with my parents and when I hung up I thought, man I really wish I was there. Then we thought, "hey, let's go!" SO we did. There is nothing like going home. I have to assume that it is different things for different people, but for me it is nothing less than a sanctuary. The air is cleaner, the water more tasty, and the green mountains encroach on me to the point of causing claustrophobia. Truly, I love this town on the (Peugeot)sound. However, it almost seems like I am a different person when I come home, almost less mature. I first noticed this when I first came home after college for Thanksgiving. It was 2001 I was a freshman and I was homesick. Even then, I felt as though I was one person when I left school and somebody different when I came home. I think that it may be because people's expectations of me are of someone who they have not witnessed growing while at school. Regardless, it is a constant struggle to relax, while at the same time, struggling to demonstrate my growth to people who I desire to make proud. I suppose that if I am only acting/living for an audience of one (Christ) then all of this becomes different in a way. In this way, it is not so much of a struggle to demonstrate who I have become, but a struggle to become the person who I am being guided to be. This has got to be the same thing that Christians have struggled with sense encountering the Son. Even Paul did the things he did not want to do and did not do the things he wanted to do. In the end I will never be good enough, I will always struggle. Thank God that, "Because the sinless Savior died, my sinful soul is counted free, for God the just is satisfied, to look on Him and pardon me." Thank God for grace.

Shama Oh' Israel.

The library ratio has doubled!

2005-07-29T15:22:00.000-05:00

Every day at about noon my wife and I go to the library to surf the net because we are poor and we don't have the internet at our place and, hey we are paying for it at school anyway. Regardless, I would like to briefly explain the library ratio. It isn't the best name for an accurate description but it is kind of catchy. Basically it is the amount of noise I allow myself to make based on the noise of others in the computer lab and/or rest of the library. This system allows me to not be the most obnoxious person in the room while still enjoying a normal conversation with my wife about our online banking as opposed to a strained whisper (Example some dude just not only answered his cell phone in the lab but decided to stay and talk to his special friend apparently about nothing at all for 5 minutes...huge comp. lab fopau. This egregious act allows me a 2 minute conversation in a normal tone with out anyone shifting their hatred from him to me). Today, by the grace of the library gods, some headphone wearing, auditorialy impaired, gamer cleared his sinuses so loud that the usual response of keeping your head locked forward and rolling your eyes so that it appears as though you are ignoring it was violated by every one in the lab who turned around and, with furrowed eyes shook their head at the guy. Again, fortunately for me he was so locked into his game that he did not notice the piercing glances. Basically, and I am getting to the point of this blog here, this act gave me the green light to take of my shirt and read Bill Simmons' thoughts on the return of the NHL. Which also afforded me the chance to laugh however loudly I wanted, because (and this is the really point of what I am saying here) it was the funniest thing I have ever read in print, even topping any of Simmons' other posts (here is the link http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/page2/story?page=simmons/050729). All the while, everyone else from the Malaysia student to the team 55 guy hated him and did not even notice me. The library ratio is a no fail system.

Shama Oh' Israel

In the twilight glow I see her blue eyes crying in the rain when we kissed goodbye and parted I knew we'd never meet again

2005-07-27T01:31:00.000-05:00

The title is from one of the best songs, "Blue eyes crying in the rain," by one of the best artists, Willie Nelson, in recent generations. It perfectly describes the feeling I have right this instant. It is much like a feeling I had in middle school. I don't know if this ever happened to you but in sixth grade the really good looking girl, you know the complete image of the unattainable, decided to not only acknowledge my existence but was actually nice to me. For the next 24 hours I entered into a state of absolute, pure bliss, like the moment in "Castaway" when Hanks' character finally gets the sail boat over the breakers, except it lasted much longer. I thought about how we would fall in love in the coming months and how I would really imaginatively ask her out. Only to wake up the next day and be slapped back into reality when I once again realized that she couldn't be less interested. The situation was completely out of my hands no matter how hard I willed it, I had nothing to do with it. This is the same feeling I had when I go to the library every day and I check my e-mail, (an idea of possibility takes seed), check my online banking, (hope mounts), check the blog boards, (the tension within me could be cut with a knife), check ESPN and am plunged back into reality to discover the Mariners lost again!
Every 5 years or so a Seattle sports team gets pretty close. In 2001 the Mariners won 116 games only to lose early in the playoffs. This year the Sonics could have been considered the best team in the West for a solid month, played the eventual champs better than anyone else in the West, and then failed to romance the underrated/key ingredient that is Nate McMillian to stay on board. The Seahawks, well they suck, they are the perennial underachievers, but, nonetheless, they put on a pretty convincing show every year to convince the hometown faithful that this could be the year. The saddest thing about me is that I am not kidding right now. Every year, EVERY YEAR, around this time I start to think that the Seahawks have finally put the pieces together. Two years ago we were arguably the worst defense in the NFL, so they picked up defensive coordinator extrodinare Ray Rhodes. Rhodes' silence to the media because of his inability to say anything nice to the media got me absolutely geeked about the possibility of a dominate defense coming back to Seattle (yes we used to be none for our defense, only the special teams and offense were giving away games at that point). I thought if he is this intense and homicidal to the media, imagine how he must be to the players, then I start daydreaming about what must be going on at the Seahawks summer camp in Cheany Washington, the desert, where summer temps reach the hundreds on a routine basis. Then I think about how Rhodes is whipping the overpaid underachieving defense into shape. Inter the regular season. The defense only shows up occasionally and when they are playing well they can't get off the field because the overpaid receivers refuse to catch routine balls. If you are not from Seattle and are reading this laughing right now, I encourage you to find a soul. Every year, I am convinced that this is the year to make it deep into the playoffs (I'm not asking for to much, I don't need a super bowl, I just need real hope that the Super bowl is actually a possibility. I mean why else would they play, why else would I watch?) So the wise words from Willie inspire me, though we have come close, though we have tasted it once the glory of a championship series (78 Sonics...by the way names like Sikma, Fred Brown, and Slick Watts may have been long forgotten in other, more fortunate parts of the country, but in Seattle they are still gods) it was but a taste and it has never returned. We are starting to worry that it never will. So, when you hear a Cubs fan whining, remind him of the glory that was Ditka, McMahon, Payton and the Fridge's Bears. When you hear some one from New England even mention the curse, hit him in the face because of the Patriots and Red Sox. When you hear any sports fan from any where else in the World complain about how long, frustrating, or disappointing it is to live in that city and cheer for it's teams...just remind them, "at least you don't live in Seattle!" Because the beautiful, picturesque, clean-air landscape known as Seattle, WA that is so close to being paradise, has the current longest drought for a championship in any sport. Long live the Seattle Storm, 2004 World Champions!

p.s. I hope all my readers now that the last statement was purely tongue and cheek, as we all know the WNBA is a glorified result from title IV and not a real sport, I mean I hope we all know and aknowledge this

Shama O' Israel

The Light will set you free

2005-07-22T15:24:00.000-05:00

My wife and I are recently married and are looking for ways to cut costs. One of the most effective ways that we have cut back is by experiencing what life must have been like before a magical cable enabled America to receive more than four or five basic channels on the television. I thought that our channels would remain mostly fixed on the big three networks while occasionally visiting the UPN for my Wednesday night guilty pleasure "Girlfriends" (I kid, I kid). However the one channel that has time and time again captured my attention is TBN. I am awe struck at how large this company has become. There is definitely an eclectic mix of different taste, ranging from the awesomely tacky "free" gift of a resurrection night light (so long as you give a $100 donation and pay the shipping and handling), to the legitimately interesting show "evidence." By the way, if you are ever in Nashville and you have some free time I encourage you to visit the TBN home/amusement park, talk about tacky, it's like the resurrection night light took a bath in Barry Bonds' unknown skin balm. Regardless, the main inspiration behind what I want to get off my chest is what I saw last night. Last night Joel Osteen (Head Pastor for the Lakewood Church in Houston) and the rest of the Lakewood Church aired their first gathering at Houston's Compaq center (former home of the Houston Rockets). The number given for final attendance after Saturday night Sunday morning services was 50,000+. After watching Pastor Osteen (by the way what kind of training are we talking about to become a pastor? Is it like the title of Reverend where there is some schooling involved? I really don't know the answer to this one.) spend about 80% of his time talking about how much the church has grown in spight of council men getting in the way and people flat out telling them that the Compaq center was out of their reach, and about 20% of his time actually saying anything that could border on good theology I began to feel torn inside. Was this purely a "health and wealth" gospel that Osteen was preaching, or is there some great significance that I just am not attuned to? How and Why would God bless this ministry to such abundance if it was not for His glory? The comment by Osteen that concerned me most was "this is not a church of condemnation or judgment." While I confess that I am only alive because "there is now no new condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus" and truly try to be slow to judge "lest I be judged," the question of inner-church accountability surfaces. How and when should church leaders hold those in the church accountable for their actions? It occurs to me that Osteen's claim to never condemn nor judge, attracts people because it is extremely comforting, extremely safe. However, when should a church strive for growth for growth's sake and when was church going ever supposed to be safe. To come before the One who made the universe by purely speaking it into existence with a montley crew of mere men and women might be one of the most audacious acts man has ever made. While the devil on my left shoulder tells me Osteen encourages attendance to encourage the donations, the angel on the right reminds me of Osteen's plea for people to find a Bible based church to be a part of. Was this lipservice, or sincerity? In the end I think that Pastor Osteen is probably a lot like all others who have the courage/stupidity to lead a church of any size. We are all but men, sinners from birth who have the conviction/ignorance to try to lead more sinful men closer to God. Osteen, like myself, probably has mixed motives at best, what else can you expect? But I want to give him the benefit of the doubt and say that I think he loves the Lord a lot, and he probably loves the Lord's people. But to return to the comment about condemnation and judgment, I must confess, I just don't know. Where is the line between doing what only God has the authority to do and, in love, stepping in and telling a brother that his actions are sinful and you are concerned about him? Isn't the latter still judgment? If anyone actually takes the time to read this crap I not only commend you for being extremely patient but welcome your comments

jam nitty gritty, I am back in the key city.

2005-07-20T17:55:00.000-05:00

For those of you who may have even paid the slightest attention to my short blogging career, I apologize for the lack of entries lately and I promise that their will be more to come, although they may be less frequent. I can still promise an occasional entry. I have got a lot on my plate already this coming semester but, lets be just completely honest, I am way to opinionated and the Mcllvaine Report is way to fun to do. Basically, I would not want to rob the world (and/or the three people who know that I do this) of anything less than my best effort. I don't have much today but I thought that while I have the time I may go ahead and post.
I will say this. While I am a stalwart conservative, I am a little concerned with Mr. John G. Roberts' track record, I mean he once decided to continue prosecution on a 12 year old girl for eating a french fry in the D.C. subway system. I mean, are we in Singapore, is he going to give the girl a lashing for every gram of transfat that occurred in the french fry? Is he going to issue legislation on outlawing chewing gum in public places? Maybe I am a swing vote type of guy after all?

Thats the kind of story like the one that makes you think

2005-06-22T16:29:00.000-05:00

Three days and counting until the the day I am to be wed, and the anticipations is not like much else I have ever really experianced. I am on the verge of somethings so monumental, yet there are such average things that must be done prior to the ceremony. Right now I feel like a spoiled little kid. Almost every body who has been monumental in my life (with the exception of my Fraternal Grandparents who are unable to make it) are going to be there to celebrate Kristin and I's love for each other. What an amazing stretch of time these next days, and hours will be. Some that I will remeber for the rest of my life. The one area that I feel no different is in the area of blessedness. I am no more blessed today, now that all of those who I care deepley about are here, than I do when I am by myself. God has blessed me with these people not so that they could show up on my important day, but rather the smaller milestones that pave the way. Those moments of love and friendship, fun and sadness that are an everyday occurance that add to this days special-ness and because of them I have been in the process of being bleessed for my entire life. I love the Lord for those who he has placed in my life. Not just these that are coming to my wedding, or merely those who wish they could come, but for all the people with whom my path has crossed in 22 years. They are the faces that make up my life. I am blessed indeed.

Shama Oh Israel

Keep Me in Your Heart for a While

2005-06-18T13:02:00.000-05:00

I heard a song today that made me want to cry. It was by a man named Warren Zevon who, before I heard this song today, is responsible for one of my most favorite classic rock songs of all time, “Werewolves of London.” Several years ago Warren was diagnosed with incurable lung cancer and the song I heard today was the final song on his final album that was intended to be an intimate introspective look at death. The album is called “The Wind” the song is called “Keep Me in Your Heart for a While.” The lyrics go like this.
Shadows are falling and I’m running out of breath
Keep me in your heart for awhile
If I leave you it doesn’t mean I love you any less
Keep me in your heart for awhile
When you get up in the morning and you see that crazy sun
Keep me in your heart for awhile
There’s a train leaving nightly called when all is said and done
Keep me in your heart for awhile
Sha-la-la-la-la-la-la-li-li-lo
Keep me in your heart for awhile
Sha-la-la-la-la-la-la-li-li-lo
Keep me in your heart for awhile
Sometimes when you’re doing simple things around the house
Maybe you’ll think of me and smile
You know I’m tied to you like the buttons on your blouse
Keep me in your heart for awhile
Hold me in your thoughts, take me to your dreams
Touch me as I fall into view
When the winter comes keep the fires lit
And I will be right next to you
Engine driver’s headed north to Pleasant Stream
Keep me in your heart for awhile
These wheels keep turning but they’re running out of steam
Keep me in your heart for awhile
Sha-la-la-la-la-la-la-li-li-lo
Keep me in your heart for awhile
Sha-la-la-la-la-la-la-li-li-lo
Keep me in your heart for awhile
Keep me in your heart for awhile

At first I was struck but the emotion of it all, I mean it is a song of a man at the end of his life just begging the world to not allow his memory, his life, to go unremembered. I think that, in the honesty of each person’s desire, we all wish to be remembered, and most of what people chose to do with their lives is an attempt to discover the medium for which to leave a legacy. It just so happens that Zevon, at the end of his life, is being completely honest through his chosen medium, song writing, and isn’t it odd that it usually takes a person staring death in the face to be completely honest with their lives? While I do not believe that this tendency is regrettable, the search for complete, brutal transparency is something that I wish my life to be characterized by. And yes, I wish to be remembered after I die. And yes, I am most likely choosing my career path partially because of my need to be remembered.
I think the trick now is to try to transition from a need to be remembered to a need to leave a legacy. What is the difference? I believe that the difference is that a legacy, unlike the need to be remembered, is not in and of itself individual focused. My legacy does not have to be me. My legacy can be the inheritance of faith that I hand down to younger generations. In other words, my death song my not say “keep me in your heart for a while,” but rather, “as I die I pray that I have left you with the faith that can move mountains…keep Christ in your heart for a while.”
I am torn though. I do not believe that Zevon’s song is as selfish as I may be communicating. When I first heard it I got the picture that he was initially writing this song to his wife, especially the line about being tied to her blouse. I feel like God gives us people in our lives and it is not for dumb luck. I believe that it glorifies God when we deeply, and passionately treasure those who are in our lives with the great intensity of Godly love. I have to believe that He is both honored and loved through the love that we demonstrate to his children, and, to me, Zevon’s song is the pleading with an intimate person to be comforted by his memory after he is gone. I love the line that says, “If I leave it doesn’t mean I love you any less,” because I think that sometimes when someone we love leaves we feel that their love leaves. But that is the great thing about love, it never leaves, it is one of three things that lasts and the greatest of even those. God, help me to treasure Kristin like I should, help me to treasure all of those who you have gifted me with in a way that brings you great joy and even love. I guess part of the legacy that we can leave is the legacy of love. I want to love, to live brightly. I want to be remembered, not for how great I was, but for how great I loved.

If you are just reading this you realy must go try to listen to the song I do it no justice by just writing down the lyrics

Shama Oh Israel

2005-06-18T10:56:00.000-05:00

Seattle Washington, my hometown, sunrise from an airplane

bouncin around the room

2005-06-17T10:15:00.000-05:00

before I begin anything remotely intellegent to say I would like to list the top three things in sports from yesterday that make me feel better about me. Why? Because I would never make that mistake! From hinse forth this listing will be called the "Mcllvaine report" after the legendary front office disaster the sonics made in the mid 90's to give an unkown (and rightfully so) Jim Mcllvaine an, unpresedented 35 million dollars to play basketball in Seattle. In his last season with Seattle he started 72 games, avereged 3.3 rebounds, .2 assists per game (no not a typo), .31 steals per game, 1.76 blocks per game, and 3.2 points per game. Basically a 6'5'' walking, talking, breathing, 35 million dollar making, waste of space that wrecked an entire franchise for 7 years! The Mcllvaine report, does not necessarily have to be front office blunders, but any act of stupidity, childishness, or behavior society otherwise would recoginze as inapropriate, but we forgive because they are profossional athletes and/or pay others to be profesional atheletes. The "Mcllvaine report" will not be issued every day but only days that beg of its existence. Any way, here is yestedays "Mcllvaine report" (which eaked out the Polynice report, after the ex sonic Oldyn Polynice ((aka, the big ape)) sat out a year of basketball after impersonating a police officer and giving a traffic citation).

3. I can not erase the image last night of Tim Duncan hunched over on his bench seat looking like a 5th grader who just lost a pick up game of touch football during recess. Meanwhile Popovich, the school marm, tries to counsol him because he refuses to do long equations untill big ben admits that he played to ruff. I mean, if you know what I am talking about, can there be any other adverb for this behavior other than "sulking?" I have always thought that it was unintentionally hillarious when Duncan would get that "I am calm on the outside but raging like a Ted Kozinski on the inside" face after being fouled hard or a no call (you know, the one he wore for about half an hour after Stoudamire's earser block in game 4). But this look was new and exciting to me. Another possible analogy would be a child who did not recieve the only thing he asked his parents for for christmas, but again its "sulking."

2. On espn.com (http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/index) there is a side story that opens "by switching the way he takes snaps, Chris Simms is hoping to cut down on his fumbles." Don't worry Simms fans around the globe I am not about bash on him. In fact the only thing I have to suggest is, shouldn't this have been suggested a long time ago, maybe by a coach somewhere, maybe like in college where the fumbles began, maybe by an NFL father? I can just hear that timeless converstion between Mac Brown and Phil Simss, "The boy has troubles with snaps Phil" says brown. "I'll bet its Appelgate's fault coach, he's awfully popular, he's putting a ton of pressure on Chris." I mean was there a coordinator anywhere or a waterboy for that matter standing in the general proximity who could have suggested TAKING THE SNAPS DIFFERENTLY!?

1. When I saw this one my jaw hit the floor. Please, if you are not doing anything else right now go visit www.seattlemariners.com. If singing Mike Hargrove gave me any hope that Bill Bavasi or anyone else in the M's organization knew what they were doing, this PR fiasco makes me question. On June 21st when the Mariners play Oakland, the first 5,000 fans at Safeco will recieve a Ken Griffey Jr statue! I am not kidding you, the man who argued or tormented ever other star on the Mariners, other than his busom buddy Jay Buhner, and then demanded a trade to the Reds. We are honoring this man?! The very city that booed A-Rod for similar behavior (except for the fact that all of his teamates said he was a dream to play with, very un-Griffey)? Is this how we are improving our sports image as a city? By groveling to a almost great, oft injured superstar who demanded a trade after an entire city worshipped him? Can somebody who knows please tell me why this is a good thing to do? I am sure that there must be some good reason that I don't know about, but the man has not PLAYED FOR US FOR OVER 7 YEARS! and it was not as if he left on Lou Gherig type terms.

Shama O' Israel

Why not

2005-06-16T13:02:00.000-05:00

I try to write something every day. I think that it keeps my mind active, but it is also a nice way to look back and remeber the place I was at in my life. The two individuals that kind of inspired me to transfer these from pivate to public are both my intellectual superiors (Scotty J. and the Weassel) so if you are familiar with their writtings, don't expect to much. I hope for this to be as eclectic as life is. Serious at times, and stupid more often than that. As my descrition indicates I have never been short on opinions for anything, so their will be a lot to cover. I have the worlds best friends, and I do not expect to ever have a heard time speaking about them, mostly because they are always on my mind. I also have the worlds best fiance (9 days from wife) and she just may pop in there every once in a while. No fear of comments, I love a good descusion. Shama Oh Israel.