Disclaimer: Trying not to fuss, whine, and complain...Working on that!
Just got word that my friend's uncle has been diagnosed with cancer. WHY?! :-(
The worst is my best friend who's been sick, is having a stressful week with someone from her past bugging her. WHAT is going on?! :(
My A/C quit working on the day I was trying to impress the parents at open school night tonight. My room was not only stuffy, it still stunk like a bunch of smelly, sweaty people from this afternoon (when the power was out, yet again). The kids know heat makes us irritable:) Oh well.
Teaching music (and my Middle School Drama class) is really fun. Why do kids think they can get away with play fighting (which disturbs class)?
Why have two of my friends here gotten really sick but I haven't caught it yet? Yikes.
Why are the black fly bites worse than the mosquitoes? That makes me laugh.
Why, if I'm exercising and trying to eat less, do I have those annoying "Fat Days"?! Ridiculous.
Why do my favorite musicians' songs sound a lot alike? Is that a sign of not as much talent as I thought they had? :)
Why are things (food) so expensive? Yes I can get it here, but it's imported and usually stale.
Why am I so extreme? I either love or hate, or I feel so much one way or feel too strongly another? Hmm. Odd question about myself that I just threw in there.
Why do birds sing so gay? (JK. I just had to throw that one in)
Why do I have like awesome times alone and then other times are horrible? Is it one time it'll be "devotion, feeling close to God" others it's "down, depressed, lonely"? Hmm. It's as if sometimes I enjoy constructive criticism then other times I feel guilty but others I am convicted. Yep I did just throw a "like" in there.
Priorities: if sleep is so important, I should be in bed right now. If my classes are what I'm here for, I can't be as involved in other things like I want to. If food is important, that's all I will spend $ on! :) But (here it is)why do mine need to match your priorities? Why do yours have to be like mine or why should I be like you when I was created something different?
Why do kids run up and want to hang from you and hold you forever but the next minute they're on your freakin' nerves like never before?! (chuckling to self)
Why do I get the sudden urge to go make tea, but it's not sudden enough for me to quit this and jump up and get some?
Why are "your mom" jokes so funny? (I'm just askin, people!)
Why does certain types of smoke smell delicious but others are bad for us and make us cough? (from smoked salmon (YUM) to certain pipe or special sweet cigars to a bonfire's smoke?)
K, goin to bed, signing off... but wait some more...
Why did Jesus hang there, for me?!
Why does God love us so much!? Wow.
"Be ashamed to die until you have scored a victory for mankind." Dr. TP Kalogris
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
Sunday, September 7, 2008
The Biggest Game of my Life
I had been to little league, homeschool organizations, track meets, and the like, but then I went to Angels games and Dodger games. That was most exciting!! I went to a few high school football games (I just love Autumn!)...When I wasn't busy in Theatre, I tried to go to college basketball or baseball home games. Then I went to a MTSU Blue Raider game - it was alright, but wasn't anything like the LSU vs. MSU game last fall... The biggest university football game - pretty major, and poor MS lost big time and we sat there in the rain! The cowbells are annoying:)
BUT, TODAY - today is another story. Us TASOK teachers piled on the bus, after waiting to make sure everyone got there (flat tires happen often!), and went to the DRC vs. Egypt game! Woah. Not only were we the minority -very few mundeles (whites)- but there was over 80,000 people there! It was enormous. It was insane. It was so huge that I almost fell over (getting pushed and shoved), my friend Sarah almost got pushed to the ground, and our friend Steve got roughened up by a scary Roulage (police). When we realized we didn't get there early enough and our seats were taken, we tried to sneak inside, paying $10 to sit in the Air Conditioned room where they "produce" the game, set the scoreboard, etc. I almost acted out this heartwrenching "I demand my money back" thing when they weren't about to let us in (because they could lose their jobs), but then our friend (the Administrator (like a principal) Todd persuaded him "This is Congo, you have to let us in" and we got in. Then DRC lost. It was the most intense, exciting game. They sang the Congo anthem (in French of course) and I had a blast watching the marching band. It was a once in a lifetime experience. I was scared of bringing my camera so I wish I had pics for you. I didn't realize how cranky I was because I didn't think and hadn't eaten anything, but really I had a great time.
Life is good.
"Be ashamed to die until you have scored a victory for mankind." Dr. TP Kalogris
BUT, TODAY - today is another story. Us TASOK teachers piled on the bus, after waiting to make sure everyone got there (flat tires happen often!), and went to the DRC vs. Egypt game! Woah. Not only were we the minority -very few mundeles (whites)- but there was over 80,000 people there! It was enormous. It was insane. It was so huge that I almost fell over (getting pushed and shoved), my friend Sarah almost got pushed to the ground, and our friend Steve got roughened up by a scary Roulage (police). When we realized we didn't get there early enough and our seats were taken, we tried to sneak inside, paying $10 to sit in the Air Conditioned room where they "produce" the game, set the scoreboard, etc. I almost acted out this heartwrenching "I demand my money back" thing when they weren't about to let us in (because they could lose their jobs), but then our friend (the Administrator (like a principal) Todd persuaded him "This is Congo, you have to let us in" and we got in. Then DRC lost. It was the most intense, exciting game. They sang the Congo anthem (in French of course) and I had a blast watching the marching band. It was a once in a lifetime experience. I was scared of bringing my camera so I wish I had pics for you. I didn't realize how cranky I was because I didn't think and hadn't eaten anything, but really I had a great time.
Life is good.
"Be ashamed to die until you have scored a victory for mankind." Dr. TP Kalogris
Thursday, August 7, 2008
So I watched a movie last night
So I've been busy with new teacher orientation here in Congo. I'm enjoying being back, missing
the fast internet connection (to be able to talk to ya!), but I'm having fun. Life really does
slow down here. One has to be flexible. I thought I knew what pizza I was ordering today, and
it turned out to be this really salty fish kind and I ate most of it, but I hated being the whiney
witch at lunch. It was hilarious. So yeah:
Sweet November...
I watched this movie last night:
This movie that I was told not to watch. But I ended up learning a couple things. Yes, it
might be a predictable chick flick where one cries and needs Kleenex, or it might not have
the best acting, etc. But it taught me to slow down and enjoy life (what I've been trying
to learn this year anyway). The story gave me a new perspective on some things:
First, to give of yourself, to others, to animals, to nature, and life. To let life
"have its way with you" so to speak! That way we don't make complete jack donkeys (as my
G'mother would whisper!) of ourselves! It's more than ok to laugh at yourself. Put a blindfold
on and chase your friend (in this case, the girlfriend) around and see how humiliating but fun it is at the same time!
I kind of figured it all out real quickly, then I missed parts of the movie because I was
guessing how'd it all go!...Exactly NOT the point to "get."
I want to understand people. I try to communicate, connect, reach out, and make random,
weird associations, just because I think I know what they're talking about. I think I "get" you;
I think I like something so I try it, I think I am attracted to something so I get real gullible
and trusting and give too easily...all in the name of love. I use strong, passionate words
that surprise people and I speak real loudly just to get attention.
Why am I giving you this information? If you read this, it's because I've allowed you access
into the way I see the world... It's silly, and the last thing I wanna be is a know-it-all. But back
to the film. I learned not only the main points of the movie about love, life, relationships,
how we all have our reasons for the way we live life, but also, I know it's unconventional for me to say this but,
I watched a gay couple befriend
a sick girl (Charlize Theron)and really, gently, take care of her. (It's beautiful!) That's the kind of friendships we all need and want -
someone who will stick closer than a brother (her sister fought with her and caused her stress)...
Then the jackdonkey in the beginning had started to fall in love with her and learn his lessons,
all the while being a role model for a poor street kid who looked up to him. It's incredible
to see these little transformations!
The Scottish actor (Jason Isaacs) who plays her best friend tells her, "Oh, you went too far? Too far for who?
It's ok to break your own rules!...It may not follow your master plan, but you can't control everything."
Her boyfriend (Keanu Reeves-who wants to be her fiance but she won't let him) tells her, "I surrender all attempts to control life,
yours or mine. I live for one thing: to love you, to make you happy, to live firmly & joyously
in the moment."
It's just another unrealistic movie. Yeah I know, it's not even a good book, but it reminds us that life's not perfect,
we may not always get what we want, and we're not in control. But live life anyway - enjoy it!
"Be ashamed to die until you have scored a victory for mankind." Dr. TP Kalogris
the fast internet connection (to be able to talk to ya!), but I'm having fun. Life really does
slow down here. One has to be flexible. I thought I knew what pizza I was ordering today, and
it turned out to be this really salty fish kind and I ate most of it, but I hated being the whiney
witch at lunch. It was hilarious. So yeah:
Sweet November...
I watched this movie last night:
This movie that I was told not to watch. But I ended up learning a couple things. Yes, it
might be a predictable chick flick where one cries and needs Kleenex, or it might not have
the best acting, etc. But it taught me to slow down and enjoy life (what I've been trying
to learn this year anyway). The story gave me a new perspective on some things:
First, to give of yourself, to others, to animals, to nature, and life. To let life
"have its way with you" so to speak! That way we don't make complete jack donkeys (as my
G'mother would whisper!) of ourselves! It's more than ok to laugh at yourself. Put a blindfold
on and chase your friend (in this case, the girlfriend) around and see how humiliating but fun it is at the same time!
I kind of figured it all out real quickly, then I missed parts of the movie because I was
guessing how'd it all go!...Exactly NOT the point to "get."
I want to understand people. I try to communicate, connect, reach out, and make random,
weird associations, just because I think I know what they're talking about. I think I "get" you;
I think I like something so I try it, I think I am attracted to something so I get real gullible
and trusting and give too easily...all in the name of love. I use strong, passionate words
that surprise people and I speak real loudly just to get attention.
Why am I giving you this information? If you read this, it's because I've allowed you access
into the way I see the world... It's silly, and the last thing I wanna be is a know-it-all. But back
to the film. I learned not only the main points of the movie about love, life, relationships,
how we all have our reasons for the way we live life, but also, I know it's unconventional for me to say this but,
I watched a gay couple befriend
a sick girl (Charlize Theron)and really, gently, take care of her. (It's beautiful!) That's the kind of friendships we all need and want -
someone who will stick closer than a brother (her sister fought with her and caused her stress)...
Then the jackdonkey in the beginning had started to fall in love with her and learn his lessons,
all the while being a role model for a poor street kid who looked up to him. It's incredible
to see these little transformations!
The Scottish actor (Jason Isaacs) who plays her best friend tells her, "Oh, you went too far? Too far for who?
It's ok to break your own rules!...It may not follow your master plan, but you can't control everything."
Her boyfriend (Keanu Reeves-who wants to be her fiance but she won't let him) tells her, "I surrender all attempts to control life,
yours or mine. I live for one thing: to love you, to make you happy, to live firmly & joyously
in the moment."
It's just another unrealistic movie. Yeah I know, it's not even a good book, but it reminds us that life's not perfect,
we may not always get what we want, and we're not in control. But live life anyway - enjoy it!
"Be ashamed to die until you have scored a victory for mankind." Dr. TP Kalogris
So I watched a movie last night
So I've been busy with new teacher orientation here in Congo. I'm enjoying being back, missing
the fast internet connection (to be able to talk to ya!), but I'm having fun. Life really does
slow down here. One has to be flexible. I thought I knew what pizza I was ordering today, and
it turned out to be this really salty fish kind and I ate most of it, but I hated being the whiney
witch at lunch. It was hilarious. So yeah:
Sweet November...
I watched this movie last night:
This movie that I was told not to watch. But I ended up learning a couple things. Yes, it
might be a predictable chick flick where one cries and needs Kleenex, or it might not have
the best acting, etc. But it taught me to slow down and enjoy life (what I've been trying
to learn this year anyway). The story gave me a new perspective on some things:
First, to give of yourself, to others, to animals, to nature, and life. To let life
"have its way with you" so to speak! That way we don't make complete jack donkeys (as my
G'mother would whisper!) of ourselves! It's more than ok to laugh at yourself. Put a blindfold
on and chase your friend (in this case, the girlfriend) around and see how humiliating but fun it is at the same time!
I kind of figured it all out real quickly, then I missed parts of the movie because I was
guessing how'd it all go!...Exactly NOT the point to "get."
I want to understand people. I try to communicate, connect, reach out, and make random,
weird associations, just because I think I know what they're talking about. I think I "get" you;
I think I like something so I try it, I think I am attracted to something so I get real gullible
and trusting and give too easily...all in the name of love. I use strong, passionate words
that surprise people and I speak real loudly just to get attention.
Why am I giving you this information? If you read this, it's because I've allowed you access
into the way I see the world... It's silly, and the last thing I wanna be is a know-it-all. But back
to the film. I learned not only the main points of the movie about love, life, relationships,
how we all have our reasons for the way we live life, but also, I know it's unconventional for me to say this but,
I watched a gay couple befriend
a sick girl (Charlize Theron)and really, gently, take care of her. (It's beautiful!) That's the kind of friendships we all need and want -
someone who will stick closer than a brother (her sister fought with her and caused her stress)...
Then the jackdonkey in the beginning had started to fall in love with her and learn his lessons,
all the while being a role model for a poor street kid who looked up to him. It's incredible
to see these little transformations!
The Scottish actor (Jason Isaacs) who plays her best friend tells her, "Oh, you went too far? Too far for who?
It's ok to break your own rules!...It may not follow your master plan, but you can't control everything."
Her boyfriend (Keanu Reeves-who wants to be her fiance but she won't let him) tells her, "I surrender all attempts to control life,
yours or mine. I live for one thing: to love you, to make you happy, to live firmly & joyously
in the moment."
It's just another unrealistic movie. Yeah I know, it's not even a good book, but it reminds us that life's not perfect,
we may not always get what we want, and we're not in control. But live life anyway - enjoy it!
"Be ashamed to die until you have scored a victory for mankind." Dr. TP Kalogris
the fast internet connection (to be able to talk to ya!), but I'm having fun. Life really does
slow down here. One has to be flexible. I thought I knew what pizza I was ordering today, and
it turned out to be this really salty fish kind and I ate most of it, but I hated being the whiney
witch at lunch. It was hilarious. So yeah:
Sweet November...
I watched this movie last night:
This movie that I was told not to watch. But I ended up learning a couple things. Yes, it
might be a predictable chick flick where one cries and needs Kleenex, or it might not have
the best acting, etc. But it taught me to slow down and enjoy life (what I've been trying
to learn this year anyway). The story gave me a new perspective on some things:
First, to give of yourself, to others, to animals, to nature, and life. To let life
"have its way with you" so to speak! That way we don't make complete jack donkeys (as my
G'mother would whisper!) of ourselves! It's more than ok to laugh at yourself. Put a blindfold
on and chase your friend (in this case, the girlfriend) around and see how humiliating but fun it is at the same time!
I kind of figured it all out real quickly, then I missed parts of the movie because I was
guessing how'd it all go!...Exactly NOT the point to "get."
I want to understand people. I try to communicate, connect, reach out, and make random,
weird associations, just because I think I know what they're talking about. I think I "get" you;
I think I like something so I try it, I think I am attracted to something so I get real gullible
and trusting and give too easily...all in the name of love. I use strong, passionate words
that surprise people and I speak real loudly just to get attention.
Why am I giving you this information? If you read this, it's because I've allowed you access
into the way I see the world... It's silly, and the last thing I wanna be is a know-it-all. But back
to the film. I learned not only the main points of the movie about love, life, relationships,
how we all have our reasons for the way we live life, but also, I know it's unconventional for me to say this but,
I watched a gay couple befriend
a sick girl (Charlize Theron)and really, gently, take care of her. (It's beautiful!) That's the kind of friendships we all need and want -
someone who will stick closer than a brother (her sister fought with her and caused her stress)...
Then the jackdonkey in the beginning had started to fall in love with her and learn his lessons,
all the while being a role model for a poor street kid who looked up to him. It's incredible
to see these little transformations!
The Scottish actor (Jason Isaacs) who plays her best friend tells her, "Oh, you went too far? Too far for who?
It's ok to break your own rules!...It may not follow your master plan, but you can't control everything."
Her boyfriend (Keanu Reeves-who wants to be her fiance but she won't let him) tells her, "I surrender all attempts to control life,
yours or mine. I live for one thing: to love you, to make you happy, to live firmly & joyously
in the moment."
It's just another unrealistic movie. Yeah I know, it's not even a good book, but it reminds us that life's not perfect,
we may not always get what we want, and we're not in control. But live life anyway - enjoy it!
"Be ashamed to die until you have scored a victory for mankind." Dr. TP Kalogris
Thursday, July 24, 2008
Reading on "Vacay" LOL
I've been reading...and I've been reading...and reading...and reading...!
My G'mother wants me to read a bunch of missionary books (usually books on the Congo). This one is interesting: Doctor Not Afraid, a bio of ER Kellersberger, MD by Winifred K Vass. OK the way Congo is described here actually made me miss it (and I thought I didn't wanna go back and wanted to move to some place called California?! jk) :
"The tropical forests were a surprise and delight to Eugene. He had expected impenetrable undergrowth in the understory but found instead, beneath the leafy ceiling high above, a windless, vaulted spaciousness filled with a dim, cathedral-like glow. Sunlight shining upon the spreading crowns of the emergent giants filtered down through the tangled mass of interwoven vines and branches that formed the main canopy. It finally flickered to the forest floor as tiny, elusive glints of light made momnentarily visible by the wind, sitrring the distant overhead foliage. Here and there miniature trees with large leaves and brilliant purple or scarlet flowers, graceful, rope-like stems of lianas and exotic epiphytes clinging to gray bark, added decorative touches to the starkness of soaring bole, flaring buttress and massive trunk. Five-hundred-foot-long stems of rattan vines hung in loops, suspended from the crowns of the towering trees to which they were attached by sharp, hooked tendrils. On the forest floor a moist, spongy carpet of fung-impregnated rotting vegetation silenced every footfall and gave off that deleicately pungent, woodsy fragrance peculiar to the jungle." Here is an excerpt from Eugene's diary:
"On the fourth day we passed through a magnificent belt of forest that takes six hours to traverse. In one place the trail went down into a deep ravine, following the bed of a clear stream for a long, long way. Here, truly, there were no footprints left behind to tell of your passing! here the sun is a forbidden guest. On all sides rise the giants of the rforest, reachin up to the life-giving sun. One feels totally dwarfed by their grandeur and the thought of how much longer they last than our poor human bodies. But, praise our great God and Savior! Even as all these great trees have come about by the death of one tiny seed, even so through the death of our bodies, we will enter into a life of glory!" He goes on to describe more of the beautiful parts of Congo (the ones I haven't really gotten to see), the mountains, ravines, rivers, etc.
---
I hope you, dear Reader, realize that not all us Presbyterians are alike... In fact, if you've met one Presbyterian, you most certainly have NOT known them all:) When I went to my Trevecca Nazarene university, I was one of the very few Presbyterians on campus and often felt accused or attacked or asked Why in the world I was proud to call myself a calvinist. Then there were a few other nice friends who didn't blame me at all for this (my one fault..;-)) and said they wanted me to keep my faith and STAY Presbyterian, not to change for everyone around me. It's not just because "whatever dear Daddy (a Presbyterian minister/missionary) says" but I've made my beliefs more my own as I gradually came to know God and His grace. So out of sheer curiosity I picked up a book from my aunt (raised in a Presbyterian missionary family, she attends a Congregational church. I have one aunt who's a Presbyterian elder, one aunt and one uncle who attend more "non" or "inter" -denominational, even charismatic type churches)'s shelf: "The Pleasures of God: Meditations on God's Delight in Being God" by John Piper. I know & love this Reformed Baptist guy, but knew I needed to read more by him, so I am intrigued by his take on William Carey, who's "known as the father of modern missions...40 years..in India...without a furlough..." sounds pretty impressive eh?! "The vision of God that inflamed his heart for the nations was the free and sovereign God of warmhearted, evangelical Calvinism= the God of George Whitefield the evangelist...the God of Augustus Toplady [who wrote one of my fave hymns "Rock of Ages"] and the God of John Newton, author of "Amazing Grace." [go rent the movie please] Carey is often remembered for his strong opposition to the hyper-Calvinists of his day who were reputed to have told him to cool down in his enthusiasm for world missions because if God wanted to reach the heathen he would do it without Carey's help."[ridiculous if I ever heard!]...Piper inserts a good quote by Carey, but this would be even longer!..."Carey did not believe that God could be frustrated in His designs for the world, but that 'all the Lord pleases He does.'..Carey tells us of being confronted by a Brahman. Carey said that God formerly allowed all men everywhere to go their own way, but now he commands all men everywhere to repent. The Brahman responded, 'Indeed I think God ought to repent for not sending the gospel sooner to us.' Carey's answer is awesome, like the God he loved and served: 'To this I added, suppose a kingdom had been long overrun by the enemies of its true king, and he though possessed of sufficient power to conquer them, should yet suffer them to prevail, and establish themselves as much as they could desire, would not the valor and wisdom of tha tking be far more conspicuous in exterminating them, that it would have been if he had opposed them at first, and prevented their entering the country? Thus by the diffusion of gospel light, the wisdom, power, and grace of God will be more conspicuous in overcoming such deep-rooted idolatries, and in destroying all that darkness and vice which have so universally prevailed in this country, than they would have been if all had not been suffered to walk in their own ways for so many ages past.'"
I know it's long but it made me think...!
"Be ashamed to die until you have scored a victory for mankind." Dr. TP Kalogris
My G'mother wants me to read a bunch of missionary books (usually books on the Congo). This one is interesting: Doctor Not Afraid, a bio of ER Kellersberger, MD by Winifred K Vass. OK the way Congo is described here actually made me miss it (and I thought I didn't wanna go back and wanted to move to some place called California?! jk) :
"The tropical forests were a surprise and delight to Eugene. He had expected impenetrable undergrowth in the understory but found instead, beneath the leafy ceiling high above, a windless, vaulted spaciousness filled with a dim, cathedral-like glow. Sunlight shining upon the spreading crowns of the emergent giants filtered down through the tangled mass of interwoven vines and branches that formed the main canopy. It finally flickered to the forest floor as tiny, elusive glints of light made momnentarily visible by the wind, sitrring the distant overhead foliage. Here and there miniature trees with large leaves and brilliant purple or scarlet flowers, graceful, rope-like stems of lianas and exotic epiphytes clinging to gray bark, added decorative touches to the starkness of soaring bole, flaring buttress and massive trunk. Five-hundred-foot-long stems of rattan vines hung in loops, suspended from the crowns of the towering trees to which they were attached by sharp, hooked tendrils. On the forest floor a moist, spongy carpet of fung-impregnated rotting vegetation silenced every footfall and gave off that deleicately pungent, woodsy fragrance peculiar to the jungle." Here is an excerpt from Eugene's diary:
"On the fourth day we passed through a magnificent belt of forest that takes six hours to traverse. In one place the trail went down into a deep ravine, following the bed of a clear stream for a long, long way. Here, truly, there were no footprints left behind to tell of your passing! here the sun is a forbidden guest. On all sides rise the giants of the rforest, reachin up to the life-giving sun. One feels totally dwarfed by their grandeur and the thought of how much longer they last than our poor human bodies. But, praise our great God and Savior! Even as all these great trees have come about by the death of one tiny seed, even so through the death of our bodies, we will enter into a life of glory!" He goes on to describe more of the beautiful parts of Congo (the ones I haven't really gotten to see), the mountains, ravines, rivers, etc.
---
I hope you, dear Reader, realize that not all us Presbyterians are alike... In fact, if you've met one Presbyterian, you most certainly have NOT known them all:) When I went to my Trevecca Nazarene university, I was one of the very few Presbyterians on campus and often felt accused or attacked or asked Why in the world I was proud to call myself a calvinist. Then there were a few other nice friends who didn't blame me at all for this (my one fault..;-)) and said they wanted me to keep my faith and STAY Presbyterian, not to change for everyone around me. It's not just because "whatever dear Daddy (a Presbyterian minister/missionary) says" but I've made my beliefs more my own as I gradually came to know God and His grace. So out of sheer curiosity I picked up a book from my aunt (raised in a Presbyterian missionary family, she attends a Congregational church. I have one aunt who's a Presbyterian elder, one aunt and one uncle who attend more "non" or "inter" -denominational, even charismatic type churches)'s shelf: "The Pleasures of God: Meditations on God's Delight in Being God" by John Piper. I know & love this Reformed Baptist guy, but knew I needed to read more by him, so I am intrigued by his take on William Carey, who's "known as the father of modern missions...40 years..in India...without a furlough..." sounds pretty impressive eh?! "The vision of God that inflamed his heart for the nations was the free and sovereign God of warmhearted, evangelical Calvinism= the God of George Whitefield the evangelist...the God of Augustus Toplady [who wrote one of my fave hymns "Rock of Ages"] and the God of John Newton, author of "Amazing Grace." [go rent the movie please] Carey is often remembered for his strong opposition to the hyper-Calvinists of his day who were reputed to have told him to cool down in his enthusiasm for world missions because if God wanted to reach the heathen he would do it without Carey's help."[ridiculous if I ever heard!]...Piper inserts a good quote by Carey, but this would be even longer!..."Carey did not believe that God could be frustrated in His designs for the world, but that 'all the Lord pleases He does.'..Carey tells us of being confronted by a Brahman. Carey said that God formerly allowed all men everywhere to go their own way, but now he commands all men everywhere to repent. The Brahman responded, 'Indeed I think God ought to repent for not sending the gospel sooner to us.' Carey's answer is awesome, like the God he loved and served: 'To this I added, suppose a kingdom had been long overrun by the enemies of its true king, and he though possessed of sufficient power to conquer them, should yet suffer them to prevail, and establish themselves as much as they could desire, would not the valor and wisdom of tha tking be far more conspicuous in exterminating them, that it would have been if he had opposed them at first, and prevented their entering the country? Thus by the diffusion of gospel light, the wisdom, power, and grace of God will be more conspicuous in overcoming such deep-rooted idolatries, and in destroying all that darkness and vice which have so universally prevailed in this country, than they would have been if all had not been suffered to walk in their own ways for so many ages past.'"
I know it's long but it made me think...!
"Be ashamed to die until you have scored a victory for mankind." Dr. TP Kalogris
Sunday, July 13, 2008
Sappy Note of Appreciation
"Be ashamed to die until you have scored a victory for mankind." Dr. TP Kalogris
Dear "Special Friends & Family,"
I'm in a mushy mood of thanksgiving. God is good, so I want you to know that I care about you. I miss each one of you since I am with my Grandmother & 2 aunts & cousins before I take off thousands of miles away across the ocean, around the globe.
I like you just the way you are. I appreciate each little quirk and curious question and I treasure each random moment!
I am not here to fix you. I love the way God created each one of us unique (yes, remember that we're all unique- just like the rest of us! ha!)
and He is faithful to finish what He started. I don't want to criticize, I want to just sit and be with you and relish in the glory of relationships, basking in His love together. I cannot change anyone but myself, and God & I are working on that...! Let's be patient with each other and be thankful that He made us the way we are but He's not going to give up on us either!
Love,
Christiana
Dear "Special Friends & Family,"
I'm in a mushy mood of thanksgiving. God is good, so I want you to know that I care about you. I miss each one of you since I am with my Grandmother & 2 aunts & cousins before I take off thousands of miles away across the ocean, around the globe.
I like you just the way you are. I appreciate each little quirk and curious question and I treasure each random moment!
I am not here to fix you. I love the way God created each one of us unique (yes, remember that we're all unique- just like the rest of us! ha!)
and He is faithful to finish what He started. I don't want to criticize, I want to just sit and be with you and relish in the glory of relationships, basking in His love together. I cannot change anyone but myself, and God & I are working on that...! Let's be patient with each other and be thankful that He made us the way we are but He's not going to give up on us either!
Love,
Christiana
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
Updating blog...
I don't know if anyone reads this blog, but I'm updating finally:
Notes on Bro.Lawrence
Today at 3:55pm |
So my sister's friend talked & prayed (over me) with me and recommended I slowly read "The Practice of the Presence of God" by Brother Lawrence. I started it last night, re-reading and reading over it this morning too, here are a few things that stand out:
First of all, I didn't know his-story (his history!) about how he came to be Brother Lawrence. He was raised a Christian by his parents, then joined the armed forces. "...He was taken prisoner by a small body of German troops and treated as a spy...They even threatened to hang him..." Later, he was wounded so he retired from the service & came home. Over time he vowed himself, his whole life to God, and confined to solitary life in a Carmelite monastery. Here's some inspiring quotes:
"You know, the difficulties of life do not have to be unbearable. It is the way that we look at them-through faith or unbelief. We must be convinced that our Father is full of love for us and that He only permits trials to come our way for our own good.
"Spending time in God's presence doesn't weaken the body. Leaving the seemingly innocent and permissible pleasures of the world for a time will, on the contrary, give us comfort. In fact, God won't allow a soul that is searching for Him to be comforted anywhere other than with Him. So it makes sense to sacfrifice ourselves for some time in His presence. This does nto mean that you have to suffer in this endeavor. No, God must be served with holy freedom...The only requirement is that we place our confidence entirely in God.
"...our faith is too weak. Instead of letting faith rule our lives, we are guided by our petty, everyday, mechanical prayers, which are always changing...Our only happiness should come from doing God's will, whether it brings us some pain or great pleasure. After all, if we're truly devoted to doing God's will, pain and pleasure won't make any difference to us.
We also need to be faithful, even in dry periods. It is during those dry spells that God tests our love for Him. We should take advantage of those times to practice our determination and our surrender to Him. This will often bring us to a maturity futher on in our walk with God.
[BL] wasn't surprised by the amount of sin and unhappiness in the world. Rather, he wondered why there wasn't MORE, considering the extremes to which the enemy is capable of going. He [BL] said he prayed about it, but because he knew God could rectify the situation in a moment if He willed it, he didn't allow himself to become greatly concerned. To succeed in giving ourselves to God as much as He desires, we must constantly guard our souls..."
I'm really impressed & enlightened by this book so far, but I feel like I should carry it around with me and always learn from it, like a Bible but not...! Gives me a lot to think about.
Notes on Lauren Winner
Friday, June 27, 2008 at 9:30pm |
I'm lovin new authors such as Rob Bell, Donald Miller, Anne Lamott...They're new to me anyway...and this Lauren Winter. What do you think of this?
Jane Hamilton is a 20th Century Ruth, she says. Notes from the chapter on Prayer:
Jennifer Egan writing about the Roman Catholic seminarians: "Talk about their prayer lives the way most people talk about their love lives." Wow. I want that to be said of me! I can only wish.
"Soon will you lead the shoots of the stock that you have planted, redeemed, to Zion, in joy."-After Passover Seder.
"Blessed are you Oh Lord our God King of the Universe...Who does Something:
Who brings forth bread from the earth,
Who made the great sea,
who creates the fruit of the ground,
Who sanctifies us with His commandments." (I want to start adding these to my prayers...)
Transformed, a complete turning around in English=teshuvah in Hebrew=Metanoia in Greek
"My life is like a disciple's nap in Gethsemane: I have promised, over&over, to be vigilant for the things of God, to be awake to Him, but I seem to spend much of my life sleeping."
"Jesus is the needle who sews the children of God who are not direct descendants of Abraham into that nighttime sky."
Believe comes from be love in Olde English.
I love this girl's metaphors and such...!
Notes from Film Lecture by Jack Hafer
Friday, June 20, 2008 at 5:03pm |
We create culture out of the raw materials of life-Annie Crouch
Gen.1-3: Order, beauty, goodness, truth til chap. 3 the LIE...
It's very difficult for Hollywood to make goodness attractive but it's easy to make evil& temptation look enticing.
We are Cultural Mandators.
What makes you cringe?
Seabiscuit
We are to bring HOPE
1.Watching for Discernment (Not just to protect)
Study culture to know what's happening Rom.12:2
Rob.McKee, Jon Truby
Become discerning Heb.5:14
Existentialist-? Finding Meaning
Is freedom always good or can it be bad?
2.Watching for enrichment
Enjoyment & Personal growth
Music disarms the people in "The Mission;" it's all about LOVE.
Let God speak to you through secular films
Self-revelation
Howard Hughes was once asked what makes film great? His answer: "Moments. Great moments."
Gire (the heart)
& Godawa (the mind)
Submit to the Art. Let it have its way with us.
Johnston "Reel Spirituality"
3.Watching for Conversation Talking about things that matter.
Soul Awakening Opportunity
It's not Christian or godly it's LIFE.
Adrian Lynn: Fatal Attraction
Indecent Proposal
Unfaithful
Sophie's Choice
Bambi. What made you cry? What was it that touched you?
This guy is pure genius. He's like my dad's best friend, he produced "To End All Wars," (an incredible film about forgiveness, WWII, etc.)... Anyway, he makes you think. He doesn't try to make you think like him. He wants you thinking about stuff that matters. Brilliant.
Life...
Thursday, June 19, 2008 at 9:04pm | "Life is good mate" - Australian principal/former boss/friend G.H. :)
Coming back home to California was emotional for me. It will be next week when I leave. It's all happy tears because I want to move back here and live nearer my bestest (I don't care if that's not a word;)) friends and closer to my pacific. God knows the desires of my heart, He gave 'em to me... I just want to be where He wants me, but I want that to be in California. LOL! ha! I told Him I don't like humidity & bugs (both in the southeastern states where I've lived recently) then He took me to fun Congo. LOL. Wow. He knows how to hit me on the head with a 2x4 but also gently, lovingly bring me (sometimes kicking & screaming) back to Himself.
I don't blog to feel sorry for myself. I journal/blog to update my peeps on my life (if you care to read). If you don't wanna read just comment on it or ignore it. Anyway, so I've been reading (on the train, on the plane, but not in Spain & not too many plains)... Smith's "No.1 Ladies' Detective Agency"...Lamott...Miller...Hunt...anything...
I'm not here to complain. I just want to say how badly I've missed these old friends & places. I kept thinking of Daughtry's "Home" song. I enjoyed 3 weddings in 3 weeks traveling from Congo to LA to CA. Pretty cool how God can bring two totally opposite people together in love huh? I totally cried through the last two - my cousin & my old friend I used to babysit. God knows what He's doing. I have my whole life ahead of me, so yeah I wanna teach first then get married & be a mommy. Someday. I have plenty of ideas... Massage therapy? Event Planning? Int'l Teaching? What, when, where, how, who, God? I think I know the whys. He knows - Jer.29:11. It's all good. I'm really not worried. I just am in love with this place. The ocean. The mountains in the distance. I know you're rollin your eyes thinking, "She's just starry eyed & wearin rose colored glasses" but really. Just thinking about next year and what God's gonna do! Who knows?!
Had some fun times with cousins & friends... lookin fwd to more of that in July (enjoy Independence Day in my own country!:)) before I head back to Congo, Africa. :) Miss my friends there too. I will have the heck of a time trying to pack up & leave in Dec. but I will get to spend Christmas with my family.
My Motivation
Friday, May 30, 2008 at 2:06am | It's the end of the school year. People are tense, tired, stressed, sick, ready for a break. We're packing up and going to the states. My dad read my blog and warned me that I share too much on here (My friends & students even tell me 'TMI' just in conversation LOL). But I wanna hear from my friends and I only share stuff with friends. "What's my motivation?!" us actors cry out from our anguished souls...:-)
My King of Freedom is. He's why I dance, sing, laugh, cry, scream&shout. I'm gonna sing a FrontLine song in church on our last Sun. that talks about it. Then I read this quote about this:
"People often say that motivation doesn't last. Well,
neither does bathing, that's why we recommend it daily."
Zig Ziglar(the Motivator King)
I LOVE that:) I'd like to be able to bathe twice a day. I love motivating people and we all need a little motivation in our lives. Gotta keep on movin'!!!
k just wanted to shout that.
Peculiar People
Wednesday, May 28, 2008 at 5:20am |
05/27/08
A Peculiar People
Margaret Manning
There are as many different ideas about what makes someone or something peculiar as there are peculiarities. Depending on one's point of view, generation, and locality, piercings and dreadlocks might make for peculiar ornamentation; or else, blue blazers, starched collars, and striped ties could make for a declaration of oddity. If you visited China, for example, height and hair color might make for peculiarity, or the food of a particular region might be peculiarly striking.
Peculiarities are distinctive. They are those qualities or characteristics that make someone or something unique. If I were to ask for a list of the qualities that make the Amish peculiar, one might list their dress, their simple way of life, and their unique eschewing of modernity in all its forms. They are a peculiar people, set apart, different and distinctive in ways that make us pay attention and notice.
Yet, as often happens with language development, somehow we have come to associate the strange with the peculiar, as if peculiarity merely indicated some level of bizarre behavior, dress, attitude, or lifestyle. In fact, the word derives from a Latin root that identified private property from what was commonly owned. To be peculiar then is to possess as a characteristic something uniquely special or particular.(1) In other words, when we call something or someone peculiar, we are identifying the special, the unique, or the particular about that individual.
This more positive definition is often replaced by a more negative and defensive connotation. To be peculiar is to be strange, different, or set-apart in a way that keeps others out, or to distinguish oneself in a way that is defensive in posture or stance. It is certainly easy to understand how defensiveness might arise when peculiar values, attitudes, or lifestyles once deemed inviolate come under attack. But if peculiarity is reduced merely to defensiveness or exclusion, it certainly loses its more winsome character.
For many, the Amish community has long served as a model of the more winsome features of peculiarity. Who hasn't at times wished for a more simple life? Who hasn't wondered at times what it might be like to share in that kind of close-knit community? And who, after hearing in the news about the horrific violence leveled against the smallest and the weakest among them, didn't wonder at the peculiarly poignant response of forgiveness and grace extended to the family of the perpetrator?(2) If this had happened in our communities, most of us would have demanded better security. Or we would find any way possible to press for the most punitive punishment against the perpetrator's family. Instead, forgiveness, mercy, and grace characterized this peculiar people. Peculiar as it may seem to us, through the extension of forgiveness, the Amish sought to reconcile what had been torn asunder and restore what had been devastated.
In light of such peculiarities, one cannot help but ask, "What makes me a peculiar person?" Indeed, as followers of Jesus, what makes us his peculiar people? Jesus had just as many options as we do today for demonstrating his peculiarity. He could have gathered just a few individuals around him and run away to the desert to form a peculiar society for a select few. He could have been a revolutionary against the Roman government rallying the troops around him to overthrow his oppressors. He could have aligned himself with the religious authorities of his day laying down with rigid enforcement peculiar laws for a peculiar people. But he did none of these things. Instead, Jesus forgave those who sinned against him, welcomed outsiders, dined with sinners, healed those whose diseases made them peculiarly unwelcome in worship spaces, and challenged the religious authorities on their understanding of the Torah--often directly contradicting them. Moreover, in the horror and torture of his own crucifixion, he prayed, "Father, forgive them for they know not what they do" (Luke 23:34). The Amish community of Quarryville certainly picked up on this peculiarity.
As a result of Jesus's peculiar life, death, and resurrection we are now "a chosen race, a royal priesthood a holy nation, God's own people." We are now those "who declare the wonderful deeds of God who called us out of darkness into the marvelous light." We who were once no people are now God's people; we who once "had not received mercy, now have received mercy."(3) We are now the people of God and we bear the name of the one we follow.
Indeed, the title "Christian" means "little Christ." It marks us as his peculiar people. As such, we should often evaluate the ways in which we pick up on--or fail to pick up on--Jesus's peculiarities. Do our own peculiarities match his? Do they uniquely set us apart as his followers? Are our lives bearing the fruit that marks us uniquely as God's possession? While we might view the Amish community as peculiar because of all the external markers that set them apart, it is in fact their commitment to follow Jesus to forgiveness, even in the face of horror and violence, that reflects the unique calling to be God's possession, God's peculiar people set apart and marked as his.
Margaret Manning is associate writer at Ravi Zacharias International Ministries in Atlanta, Georgia.
(1) Etymology and definition from Merriam-Webster's On-Line Dictionary, www.merriam-webster.com.
(2) Armed gunman Charles Carl Roberts murdered five young children in an Amish schoolhouse October 2, 2006 before committing suicide. CBS news archives, http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2006/10/04/national/main2059816.shtml
(3) Adapted from 1 Peter 2:9-10.
"Be ashamed to die until you have scored a victory for mankind." Dr. TP Kalogris
Notes on Bro.Lawrence
Today at 3:55pm |
So my sister's friend talked & prayed (over me) with me and recommended I slowly read "The Practice of the Presence of God" by Brother Lawrence. I started it last night, re-reading and reading over it this morning too, here are a few things that stand out:
First of all, I didn't know his-story (his history!) about how he came to be Brother Lawrence. He was raised a Christian by his parents, then joined the armed forces. "...He was taken prisoner by a small body of German troops and treated as a spy...They even threatened to hang him..." Later, he was wounded so he retired from the service & came home. Over time he vowed himself, his whole life to God, and confined to solitary life in a Carmelite monastery. Here's some inspiring quotes:
"You know, the difficulties of life do not have to be unbearable. It is the way that we look at them-through faith or unbelief. We must be convinced that our Father is full of love for us and that He only permits trials to come our way for our own good.
"Spending time in God's presence doesn't weaken the body. Leaving the seemingly innocent and permissible pleasures of the world for a time will, on the contrary, give us comfort. In fact, God won't allow a soul that is searching for Him to be comforted anywhere other than with Him. So it makes sense to sacfrifice ourselves for some time in His presence. This does nto mean that you have to suffer in this endeavor. No, God must be served with holy freedom...The only requirement is that we place our confidence entirely in God.
"...our faith is too weak. Instead of letting faith rule our lives, we are guided by our petty, everyday, mechanical prayers, which are always changing...Our only happiness should come from doing God's will, whether it brings us some pain or great pleasure. After all, if we're truly devoted to doing God's will, pain and pleasure won't make any difference to us.
We also need to be faithful, even in dry periods. It is during those dry spells that God tests our love for Him. We should take advantage of those times to practice our determination and our surrender to Him. This will often bring us to a maturity futher on in our walk with God.
[BL] wasn't surprised by the amount of sin and unhappiness in the world. Rather, he wondered why there wasn't MORE, considering the extremes to which the enemy is capable of going. He [BL] said he prayed about it, but because he knew God could rectify the situation in a moment if He willed it, he didn't allow himself to become greatly concerned. To succeed in giving ourselves to God as much as He desires, we must constantly guard our souls..."
I'm really impressed & enlightened by this book so far, but I feel like I should carry it around with me and always learn from it, like a Bible but not...! Gives me a lot to think about.
Notes on Lauren Winner
Friday, June 27, 2008 at 9:30pm |
I'm lovin new authors such as Rob Bell, Donald Miller, Anne Lamott...They're new to me anyway...and this Lauren Winter. What do you think of this?
Jane Hamilton is a 20th Century Ruth, she says. Notes from the chapter on Prayer:
Jennifer Egan writing about the Roman Catholic seminarians: "Talk about their prayer lives the way most people talk about their love lives." Wow. I want that to be said of me! I can only wish.
"Soon will you lead the shoots of the stock that you have planted, redeemed, to Zion, in joy."-After Passover Seder.
"Blessed are you Oh Lord our God King of the Universe...Who does Something:
Who brings forth bread from the earth,
Who made the great sea,
who creates the fruit of the ground,
Who sanctifies us with His commandments." (I want to start adding these to my prayers...)
Transformed, a complete turning around in English=teshuvah in Hebrew=Metanoia in Greek
"My life is like a disciple's nap in Gethsemane: I have promised, over&over, to be vigilant for the things of God, to be awake to Him, but I seem to spend much of my life sleeping."
"Jesus is the needle who sews the children of God who are not direct descendants of Abraham into that nighttime sky."
Believe comes from be love in Olde English.
I love this girl's metaphors and such...!
Notes from Film Lecture by Jack Hafer
Friday, June 20, 2008 at 5:03pm |
We create culture out of the raw materials of life-Annie Crouch
Gen.1-3: Order, beauty, goodness, truth til chap. 3 the LIE...
It's very difficult for Hollywood to make goodness attractive but it's easy to make evil& temptation look enticing.
We are Cultural Mandators.
What makes you cringe?
Seabiscuit
We are to bring HOPE
1.Watching for Discernment (Not just to protect)
Study culture to know what's happening Rom.12:2
Rob.McKee, Jon Truby
Become discerning Heb.5:14
Existentialist-? Finding Meaning
Is freedom always good or can it be bad?
2.Watching for enrichment
Enjoyment & Personal growth
Music disarms the people in "The Mission;" it's all about LOVE.
Let God speak to you through secular films
Self-revelation
Howard Hughes was once asked what makes film great? His answer: "Moments. Great moments."
Gire (the heart)
& Godawa (the mind)
Submit to the Art. Let it have its way with us.
Johnston "Reel Spirituality"
3.Watching for Conversation Talking about things that matter.
Soul Awakening Opportunity
It's not Christian or godly it's LIFE.
Adrian Lynn: Fatal Attraction
Indecent Proposal
Unfaithful
Sophie's Choice
Bambi. What made you cry? What was it that touched you?
This guy is pure genius. He's like my dad's best friend, he produced "To End All Wars," (an incredible film about forgiveness, WWII, etc.)... Anyway, he makes you think. He doesn't try to make you think like him. He wants you thinking about stuff that matters. Brilliant.
Life...
Thursday, June 19, 2008 at 9:04pm | "Life is good mate" - Australian principal/former boss/friend G.H. :)
Coming back home to California was emotional for me. It will be next week when I leave. It's all happy tears because I want to move back here and live nearer my bestest (I don't care if that's not a word;)) friends and closer to my pacific. God knows the desires of my heart, He gave 'em to me... I just want to be where He wants me, but I want that to be in California. LOL! ha! I told Him I don't like humidity & bugs (both in the southeastern states where I've lived recently) then He took me to fun Congo. LOL. Wow. He knows how to hit me on the head with a 2x4 but also gently, lovingly bring me (sometimes kicking & screaming) back to Himself.
I don't blog to feel sorry for myself. I journal/blog to update my peeps on my life (if you care to read). If you don't wanna read just comment on it or ignore it. Anyway, so I've been reading (on the train, on the plane, but not in Spain & not too many plains)... Smith's "No.1 Ladies' Detective Agency"...Lamott...Miller...Hunt...anything...
I'm not here to complain. I just want to say how badly I've missed these old friends & places. I kept thinking of Daughtry's "Home" song. I enjoyed 3 weddings in 3 weeks traveling from Congo to LA to CA. Pretty cool how God can bring two totally opposite people together in love huh? I totally cried through the last two - my cousin & my old friend I used to babysit. God knows what He's doing. I have my whole life ahead of me, so yeah I wanna teach first then get married & be a mommy. Someday. I have plenty of ideas... Massage therapy? Event Planning? Int'l Teaching? What, when, where, how, who, God? I think I know the whys. He knows - Jer.29:11. It's all good. I'm really not worried. I just am in love with this place. The ocean. The mountains in the distance. I know you're rollin your eyes thinking, "She's just starry eyed & wearin rose colored glasses" but really. Just thinking about next year and what God's gonna do! Who knows?!
Had some fun times with cousins & friends... lookin fwd to more of that in July (enjoy Independence Day in my own country!:)) before I head back to Congo, Africa. :) Miss my friends there too. I will have the heck of a time trying to pack up & leave in Dec. but I will get to spend Christmas with my family.
My Motivation
Friday, May 30, 2008 at 2:06am | It's the end of the school year. People are tense, tired, stressed, sick, ready for a break. We're packing up and going to the states. My dad read my blog and warned me that I share too much on here (My friends & students even tell me 'TMI' just in conversation LOL). But I wanna hear from my friends and I only share stuff with friends. "What's my motivation?!" us actors cry out from our anguished souls...:-)
My King of Freedom is. He's why I dance, sing, laugh, cry, scream&shout. I'm gonna sing a FrontLine song in church on our last Sun. that talks about it. Then I read this quote about this:
"People often say that motivation doesn't last. Well,
neither does bathing, that's why we recommend it daily."
Zig Ziglar(the Motivator King)
I LOVE that:) I'd like to be able to bathe twice a day. I love motivating people and we all need a little motivation in our lives. Gotta keep on movin'!!!
k just wanted to shout that.
Peculiar People
Wednesday, May 28, 2008 at 5:20am |
05/27/08
A Peculiar People
Margaret Manning
There are as many different ideas about what makes someone or something peculiar as there are peculiarities. Depending on one's point of view, generation, and locality, piercings and dreadlocks might make for peculiar ornamentation; or else, blue blazers, starched collars, and striped ties could make for a declaration of oddity. If you visited China, for example, height and hair color might make for peculiarity, or the food of a particular region might be peculiarly striking.
Peculiarities are distinctive. They are those qualities or characteristics that make someone or something unique. If I were to ask for a list of the qualities that make the Amish peculiar, one might list their dress, their simple way of life, and their unique eschewing of modernity in all its forms. They are a peculiar people, set apart, different and distinctive in ways that make us pay attention and notice.
Yet, as often happens with language development, somehow we have come to associate the strange with the peculiar, as if peculiarity merely indicated some level of bizarre behavior, dress, attitude, or lifestyle. In fact, the word derives from a Latin root that identified private property from what was commonly owned. To be peculiar then is to possess as a characteristic something uniquely special or particular.(1) In other words, when we call something or someone peculiar, we are identifying the special, the unique, or the particular about that individual.
This more positive definition is often replaced by a more negative and defensive connotation. To be peculiar is to be strange, different, or set-apart in a way that keeps others out, or to distinguish oneself in a way that is defensive in posture or stance. It is certainly easy to understand how defensiveness might arise when peculiar values, attitudes, or lifestyles once deemed inviolate come under attack. But if peculiarity is reduced merely to defensiveness or exclusion, it certainly loses its more winsome character.
For many, the Amish community has long served as a model of the more winsome features of peculiarity. Who hasn't at times wished for a more simple life? Who hasn't wondered at times what it might be like to share in that kind of close-knit community? And who, after hearing in the news about the horrific violence leveled against the smallest and the weakest among them, didn't wonder at the peculiarly poignant response of forgiveness and grace extended to the family of the perpetrator?(2) If this had happened in our communities, most of us would have demanded better security. Or we would find any way possible to press for the most punitive punishment against the perpetrator's family. Instead, forgiveness, mercy, and grace characterized this peculiar people. Peculiar as it may seem to us, through the extension of forgiveness, the Amish sought to reconcile what had been torn asunder and restore what had been devastated.
In light of such peculiarities, one cannot help but ask, "What makes me a peculiar person?" Indeed, as followers of Jesus, what makes us his peculiar people? Jesus had just as many options as we do today for demonstrating his peculiarity. He could have gathered just a few individuals around him and run away to the desert to form a peculiar society for a select few. He could have been a revolutionary against the Roman government rallying the troops around him to overthrow his oppressors. He could have aligned himself with the religious authorities of his day laying down with rigid enforcement peculiar laws for a peculiar people. But he did none of these things. Instead, Jesus forgave those who sinned against him, welcomed outsiders, dined with sinners, healed those whose diseases made them peculiarly unwelcome in worship spaces, and challenged the religious authorities on their understanding of the Torah--often directly contradicting them. Moreover, in the horror and torture of his own crucifixion, he prayed, "Father, forgive them for they know not what they do" (Luke 23:34). The Amish community of Quarryville certainly picked up on this peculiarity.
As a result of Jesus's peculiar life, death, and resurrection we are now "a chosen race, a royal priesthood a holy nation, God's own people." We are now those "who declare the wonderful deeds of God who called us out of darkness into the marvelous light." We who were once no people are now God's people; we who once "had not received mercy, now have received mercy."(3) We are now the people of God and we bear the name of the one we follow.
Indeed, the title "Christian" means "little Christ." It marks us as his peculiar people. As such, we should often evaluate the ways in which we pick up on--or fail to pick up on--Jesus's peculiarities. Do our own peculiarities match his? Do they uniquely set us apart as his followers? Are our lives bearing the fruit that marks us uniquely as God's possession? While we might view the Amish community as peculiar because of all the external markers that set them apart, it is in fact their commitment to follow Jesus to forgiveness, even in the face of horror and violence, that reflects the unique calling to be God's possession, God's peculiar people set apart and marked as his.
Margaret Manning is associate writer at Ravi Zacharias International Ministries in Atlanta, Georgia.
(1) Etymology and definition from Merriam-Webster's On-Line Dictionary, www.merriam-webster.com.
(2) Armed gunman Charles Carl Roberts murdered five young children in an Amish schoolhouse October 2, 2006 before committing suicide. CBS news archives, http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2006/10/04/national/main2059816.shtml
(3) Adapted from 1 Peter 2:9-10.
"Be ashamed to die until you have scored a victory for mankind." Dr. TP Kalogris
Sunday, May 25, 2008
What is this thing I see?!
While running down the Blvd (the main drag in Kinshasa, DRC), yes I did stop to walk, but what kept me going is a couple things. Running alone certainly doesn't work. Running with mundeles (whites- other teachers, missionaries, friends) helps; but the Congolese love it. They encourage you, shouting "Mbote!" (hello in Lingala), Bonjour, and "COURAGE!" cheering us in French & the like. It was great! I even kicked a homemade ball around with some street kids:) The thing that kept coming back to my mind is Steven Curtis Chapman's song "See the Glory" based on Eph.1:18; 2Cor.4:6,6:1 & CS Lewis' quote: "Indeed if we consider the unblushing promise of reward & the staggering nature of the rewards promised in the Gospels, it would seem that our Lord finds our desires not too strong, but too weak. We are half-hearted creatures like an ignorant child who wants to go on making mud pies in a slum because he cannot imagine what is meant by the offer of a holiday at the sea. We are far too easily pleased."
The slight rain cooled us down as we jogged, but I kept cramping and getting nervous that I would slip & slide down the wet streets, in the mud. But you know what? I didn't fall once! I don't remember running that long, even when I did Long Distance Track&Field in Mid.school (that's when I ran with my beautiful friend Corina:)) Westerners don't have a clue what life is like for us here. I know I am far too easily pleased, easily entertained, easily amused... I stopped on a bridge to look out and view the Congo River, its raging power and still calmness all in one, the trash and dirt separating me from its wild rapids.
After a fun End of the Yr brunch for my Boot Camp friends (our exercise group), I spent all day editing the video of my play (the Importance of Being Earnest). Then I went and had girly fun time with the women teachers as we got our hair done for prom.
After chaperoning prom last night, I got to see the Congo River at night (yes, even in the dark) from a lovely view on a friend's balcony... On one side you can see the French Congo (Brazzaville) and the other you can see Kin, DRC; and we had a great view of the moon.
I have to stop and smell the roses, and Congo is doing that for me, it's slowing my fast paced life down and forcing me to "wake up and see the glory" all around me. Even amongst the trash, dirt, smog, pollution, and dying rainforest. You have to spend time searching, looking, and once you see beauty, in a friend or river, a tree or an odd building in Kin, then you can find glimpses of how huge His grace is.
"I never did like the word mediocre
I never wanted it to be said of me, oh, no
Just point me to the job and I’d go over, over
Looking for the very best that could be
So what is this thing I see
Going on inside of me?
When it comes to the grace of God
Sometimes it’s like …
I’m playing Gameboy standing in the middle of the Grand Canyon
I’m eating candy sittin’ at a gourmet feast
I’m wading in a puddle when I could be swimming in the ocean
Tell me what’s the deal with me
(I know the time has come for me to)
Wake up and see the glory
Every star in the sky tells His story, oh
And every breeze is singing His song
All of creation is imploring
Hey, come see this grand phenomenon
The wonder of His grace
Should take my breath away
I miss so many things when I’m content with …
How could I trivialize it
This awesome gift of God’s grace?
Once I have come to realize it
I should be speechless and amazed
Wake up and see the glory
Open your eyes and take it in
Wake up and be amazed
Over and over again
God’s love is calling to you and to me
Wake up, wake up
Open your eyes"-SCC
"Be ashamed to die until you have scored a victory for mankind." Dr. TP Kalogris
The slight rain cooled us down as we jogged, but I kept cramping and getting nervous that I would slip & slide down the wet streets, in the mud. But you know what? I didn't fall once! I don't remember running that long, even when I did Long Distance Track&Field in Mid.school (that's when I ran with my beautiful friend Corina:)) Westerners don't have a clue what life is like for us here. I know I am far too easily pleased, easily entertained, easily amused... I stopped on a bridge to look out and view the Congo River, its raging power and still calmness all in one, the trash and dirt separating me from its wild rapids.
After a fun End of the Yr brunch for my Boot Camp friends (our exercise group), I spent all day editing the video of my play (the Importance of Being Earnest). Then I went and had girly fun time with the women teachers as we got our hair done for prom.
After chaperoning prom last night, I got to see the Congo River at night (yes, even in the dark) from a lovely view on a friend's balcony... On one side you can see the French Congo (Brazzaville) and the other you can see Kin, DRC; and we had a great view of the moon.
I have to stop and smell the roses, and Congo is doing that for me, it's slowing my fast paced life down and forcing me to "wake up and see the glory" all around me. Even amongst the trash, dirt, smog, pollution, and dying rainforest. You have to spend time searching, looking, and once you see beauty, in a friend or river, a tree or an odd building in Kin, then you can find glimpses of how huge His grace is.
"I never did like the word mediocre
I never wanted it to be said of me, oh, no
Just point me to the job and I’d go over, over
Looking for the very best that could be
So what is this thing I see
Going on inside of me?
When it comes to the grace of God
Sometimes it’s like …
I’m playing Gameboy standing in the middle of the Grand Canyon
I’m eating candy sittin’ at a gourmet feast
I’m wading in a puddle when I could be swimming in the ocean
Tell me what’s the deal with me
(I know the time has come for me to)
Wake up and see the glory
Every star in the sky tells His story, oh
And every breeze is singing His song
All of creation is imploring
Hey, come see this grand phenomenon
The wonder of His grace
Should take my breath away
I miss so many things when I’m content with …
How could I trivialize it
This awesome gift of God’s grace?
Once I have come to realize it
I should be speechless and amazed
Wake up and see the glory
Open your eyes and take it in
Wake up and be amazed
Over and over again
God’s love is calling to you and to me
Wake up, wake up
Open your eyes"-SCC
"Be ashamed to die until you have scored a victory for mankind." Dr. TP Kalogris
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
:-(
Marhabtein! Kifeik?
ana jaleis
ana eiad....
nazo yoka passi po na moninga nagnay
j'ai triste
yo soy TRISTE!!!!!
I'm tryin to learn different ways to say different things. My status msg. says I am sad because
I really am.
I am down. "Why so downcast o my soul?" "Why should I feel discouraged? Why should the shadows fall?..." I just found out one of my dearest friends is very ill and I don't want her to be. I just feel so far away in the dark away from the people I care the most about. I want to move away to California someday and go to grad school & get my masters, but it's too expensive there. I'd have to find a job, a place to live, and a car. Wow. Silly materialistic things. I'm feelin sorry for myself. I know I need to trust God and pray and be there to cheer her up, and I know that God won't let her handle anything too big, but I want to wrap my arms around her and she's thousands of miles away.
I went and ran a little (not much; I slowed down because I started to cry). I showered (which usually helps make me feel better), had dinner, enjoyed a music concert on campus, I've prayed and journaled (am now blogging), but I still feel bothered by the news. I told God I'm pretty mad. I almost got upset at my family about the whole thing:( I don't want to take out stress on people I love. I want to be alone right now, "Me and God" like Josh Taylor's song. But then I really am dying to vent and let it all out and tell someone who will listen and understand and just hold me.
"You are loved with an everlasting love.
And underneath are the everlasting arms."
That's how my granny used to start her radio program. Why?! She's already been through a lot, why is she suffering so? I don't want my parents stressing or worrying anymore! My mama is hurting because her mama is.:(
Anyway, just wanted to explain my pain...
K thnx for listenin.
Shalom
ana jaleis
ana eiad....
nazo yoka passi po na moninga nagnay
j'ai triste
yo soy TRISTE!!!!!
I'm tryin to learn different ways to say different things. My status msg. says I am sad because
I really am.
I am down. "Why so downcast o my soul?" "Why should I feel discouraged? Why should the shadows fall?..." I just found out one of my dearest friends is very ill and I don't want her to be. I just feel so far away in the dark away from the people I care the most about. I want to move away to California someday and go to grad school & get my masters, but it's too expensive there. I'd have to find a job, a place to live, and a car. Wow. Silly materialistic things. I'm feelin sorry for myself. I know I need to trust God and pray and be there to cheer her up, and I know that God won't let her handle anything too big, but I want to wrap my arms around her and she's thousands of miles away.
I went and ran a little (not much; I slowed down because I started to cry). I showered (which usually helps make me feel better), had dinner, enjoyed a music concert on campus, I've prayed and journaled (am now blogging), but I still feel bothered by the news. I told God I'm pretty mad. I almost got upset at my family about the whole thing:( I don't want to take out stress on people I love. I want to be alone right now, "Me and God" like Josh Taylor's song. But then I really am dying to vent and let it all out and tell someone who will listen and understand and just hold me.
"You are loved with an everlasting love.
And underneath are the everlasting arms."
That's how my granny used to start her radio program. Why?! She's already been through a lot, why is she suffering so? I don't want my parents stressing or worrying anymore! My mama is hurting because her mama is.:(
Anyway, just wanted to explain my pain...
K thnx for listenin.
Shalom
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
I don't believe in church
What's that you say? After my dad's good sermon this morning, this is what I scribbled on my bulletin:
The Church is His Body, a place and house of worship. The church is becoming a place where people think they are gods who are there to help people, count the numbers, or run it their way. Church should be a place where we raise both our empty hands; we are not God and we are the ones who need God's help. We realize our need of grace, our need for mercy, and our burning desire to love and be loved in return. Our need to be heard, our craving for attention, are all natural human responses that I personally believe only God can fill, but we will never be completely satisfied "till we find ourselves in Him..." (my memory's paraphrase of St. Augustine's quote)
Remember what He prayed for in the Garden? Unity. He wanted us to be unified, made one (hence, the picture of marriage and the symbol of sex!), and peacemakers who aren't perfect.
K I just thought I'd throw these thoughts out there.
"Be ashamed to die until you have scored a victory for mankind." Dr. TP Kalogris
The Church is His Body, a place and house of worship. The church is becoming a place where people think they are gods who are there to help people, count the numbers, or run it their way. Church should be a place where we raise both our empty hands; we are not God and we are the ones who need God's help. We realize our need of grace, our need for mercy, and our burning desire to love and be loved in return. Our need to be heard, our craving for attention, are all natural human responses that I personally believe only God can fill, but we will never be completely satisfied "till we find ourselves in Him..." (my memory's paraphrase of St. Augustine's quote)
Remember what He prayed for in the Garden? Unity. He wanted us to be unified, made one (hence, the picture of marriage and the symbol of sex!), and peacemakers who aren't perfect.
K I just thought I'd throw these thoughts out there.
"Be ashamed to die until you have scored a victory for mankind." Dr. TP Kalogris
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
A successful person is one who can lay a firm foundation
with the bricks that others throw at him or her.
David Brinkley said this. I am still trying out this aide position, and it can be so hard. He started throwing rocks at me, little pebble stones or nuts, etc. and I can't do anything - force, touch, pull, help him at all. He needs love, lots and lots of patience, but I try THEIR method and don't know if it does any good. Then I have personal drama of feeling judged by others. I don't know why, but Congo really changes people. You see, it either makes you more tense & stressed (plenty of reason here!) or it makes you more relaxed and able to go with the flow.
I was in a friend's house recently and she showed us her African statue that my friend said had a perfect portrayal of the JOY that is Congo...
and the depression that Congo has as well. My mom bought a little table figurine that shares something similar. In order to relax here, I exercise, swim/lay by the pool, read, pray&journal, play piano/flute/CDs, talk out my stress, and, well, color. Yeah I know, silly huh? But it really helps with the whole "therapy thing!"
So I ask, why do we judge? I usually excused it with, "Well that's all we know is their sin, their problem, their weakness" when we see it in them, we think it makes us look better when in reality it makes us look worse.
But, when I judge, I usually judge those who judge, then I'm going one step further in not helping, am I?! I get lectures here & there, or I am too sensitive when someone acts like they were just joking, or I am too worried about what they are thinking of me.
When in reality not many people are thinking about you as often as you think they are!
"Be ashamed to die until you have scored a victory for mankind." Dr. TP Kalogris
with the bricks that others throw at him or her.
David Brinkley said this. I am still trying out this aide position, and it can be so hard. He started throwing rocks at me, little pebble stones or nuts, etc. and I can't do anything - force, touch, pull, help him at all. He needs love, lots and lots of patience, but I try THEIR method and don't know if it does any good. Then I have personal drama of feeling judged by others. I don't know why, but Congo really changes people. You see, it either makes you more tense & stressed (plenty of reason here!) or it makes you more relaxed and able to go with the flow.
I was in a friend's house recently and she showed us her African statue that my friend said had a perfect portrayal of the JOY that is Congo...
and the depression that Congo has as well. My mom bought a little table figurine that shares something similar. In order to relax here, I exercise, swim/lay by the pool, read, pray&journal, play piano/flute/CDs, talk out my stress, and, well, color. Yeah I know, silly huh? But it really helps with the whole "therapy thing!"
So I ask, why do we judge? I usually excused it with, "Well that's all we know is their sin, their problem, their weakness" when we see it in them, we think it makes us look better when in reality it makes us look worse.
But, when I judge, I usually judge those who judge, then I'm going one step further in not helping, am I?! I get lectures here & there, or I am too sensitive when someone acts like they were just joking, or I am too worried about what they are thinking of me.
When in reality not many people are thinking about you as often as you think they are!
"Be ashamed to die until you have scored a victory for mankind." Dr. TP Kalogris
Sunday, April 6, 2008
One Way to End a Stressful Wk:
.....Join a Hash!
Yeah, I did. First of all, on Friday I typed out a randomly mad blog, then it got lost (net stopped working apparently), about my crazy week. I have now officially signed on a trial run of being an aide for a 3rd grader with "Behavioral Issues." (Basically it just takes a TON of patience!) I partially got a little of the stress out Th. by scarily joining the Intermediate Boot Camp here on campus. We are supposed to run 6mi. by the end of 8 wks. Yeah I know right?! Insane. Then I ended the week with prayer meeting, a deliciously stuffing-your-plate-full Indian meal, then set up in the morning and went shopping in Kin, with my teacher-friends then came back for our RUN. . .
The Kinshasa Fortnightly Hash House Harriers has officially begun! We ran approx. 3 mi. around the Kinshasa streets (while the Congolese people greatly enjoyed laughing at the mundeles (sp? white person in Lingala) complete with TOGAS made of African fabric! Then we stopped off at the Ambassador's home for a Drink Stop, and then partied till we dropped (literally) with a band (J'Affroz) and the best chicken in Kin, Mama Colonel's (apparently there are pictures of the place floating around FCBK, they even bring a basin for you to wash your hands!)...Boy was it a rockin' party! I danced & sang with the band. It was really truly fun.
I know some people will think it's just crazy; some people reading this will judge & hate and all the rest, while others don't care (or don't even read this anymore) or some will feel guilty for me, or be shocked by my behavior, but I want people to know (just in case you were concerned), I DO care about my witness; I don't want to judge, judge those who judge, nor do I want to be judged, so therefore I go be myself, enjoy a party or a drink or two (or 4), and laugh and cry over the beauty of freedom. I want to enjoy life at its fullest, be all there, and live life on the edge, to the hilt! What's the matter with that?! Part of living the spirited dance is that we begin to try to realize (but we still can't fully) the paradox of living a balanced life. ME, balanced?! ha, no, I don't think so. But I know that is the key to survival! One can't be extreme extremist black & white all the time, because real life is full of grey matter and gray areas, is it not?! I just want to share my love for life (while all the while looking fwd to heaven someday), and not have to worry over guilt or anything. Moderation is key. Let's live,laugh,love in the middle of the road!
"Be ashamed to die until you have scored a victory for mankind." Dr. TP Kalogris
Yeah, I did. First of all, on Friday I typed out a randomly mad blog, then it got lost (net stopped working apparently), about my crazy week. I have now officially signed on a trial run of being an aide for a 3rd grader with "Behavioral Issues." (Basically it just takes a TON of patience!) I partially got a little of the stress out Th. by scarily joining the Intermediate Boot Camp here on campus. We are supposed to run 6mi. by the end of 8 wks. Yeah I know right?! Insane. Then I ended the week with prayer meeting, a deliciously stuffing-your-plate-full Indian meal, then set up in the morning and went shopping in Kin, with my teacher-friends then came back for our RUN. . .
The Kinshasa Fortnightly Hash House Harriers has officially begun! We ran approx. 3 mi. around the Kinshasa streets (while the Congolese people greatly enjoyed laughing at the mundeles (sp? white person in Lingala) complete with TOGAS made of African fabric! Then we stopped off at the Ambassador's home for a Drink Stop, and then partied till we dropped (literally) with a band (J'Affroz) and the best chicken in Kin, Mama Colonel's (apparently there are pictures of the place floating around FCBK, they even bring a basin for you to wash your hands!)...Boy was it a rockin' party! I danced & sang with the band. It was really truly fun.
I know some people will think it's just crazy; some people reading this will judge & hate and all the rest, while others don't care (or don't even read this anymore) or some will feel guilty for me, or be shocked by my behavior, but I want people to know (just in case you were concerned), I DO care about my witness; I don't want to judge, judge those who judge, nor do I want to be judged, so therefore I go be myself, enjoy a party or a drink or two (or 4), and laugh and cry over the beauty of freedom. I want to enjoy life at its fullest, be all there, and live life on the edge, to the hilt! What's the matter with that?! Part of living the spirited dance is that we begin to try to realize (but we still can't fully) the paradox of living a balanced life. ME, balanced?! ha, no, I don't think so. But I know that is the key to survival! One can't be extreme extremist black & white all the time, because real life is full of grey matter and gray areas, is it not?! I just want to share my love for life (while all the while looking fwd to heaven someday), and not have to worry over guilt or anything. Moderation is key. Let's live,laugh,love in the middle of the road!
"Be ashamed to die until you have scored a victory for mankind." Dr. TP Kalogris
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
My heart aches for friends back home right now. Going through something as difficult as losing a dear friend to cancer is too hard - even too hard to blog about, as much as you want to cry or scream about it:( I ask God why, because I knew her to be beautiful on the inside and out. Like in that movie "The War" when the little boy screams at God, "I needed him [his father] more than You, God!" The world needs more people like her. I was feeling sorry for myself, someone who has experienced verbal/emotional/mental abuse in the past, and so I still throw little pity parties for myself here & there about tiny sensitivities. I eat up attention. It's like, when I really think about it, God's gracious amazing love isn't enough or something!? WHAT?!!! Yes, I know, I said it. I admit it. My human flesh, my pea brain, my blockheadedness needs that daily reminder of how good God is - it's like, HELLO, did I forget that I can trust God with even that?! Just a lost suitcase! Just a walk through the GrandMarche, the scariest place in Kinshasa for a blond mundeli (sp?) white girl. My little niece, sick with bronchitis and a touch of pneumonia, who I catch myself thinking of, "She doesn't deserve that!" Or learning to trust God for the future unkown (walking by faith in the unseen): "My parents deserve a huge dream house, God! Why don't You show us Your plan?" because of my selfish impatience. Then I get offended. I jump to defend, about something that I quickly think I know better than someone (PRIDE gets in the way!), thinking I've been corrected so I can correct. Or I know how it feels to be exhorted and taught so I can teach? Ha, NO...! So I get touchy about being stifled, or whenever I feel someone encroaching on my territory (something I think I can handle). Actually, God's the only One Who can handle it. He holds all my tears in a bottle, He hears my fearful anxious whispers and listens to my loud screams of "Life's not fair!" He knows. He understands. He's been there. Our prayer meeting night falls on Good Friday so we are going to remember together what our Savior did for us. "For every 1 look at your sin, take 10 looks at the cross," my dad is fond of saying. My world is too small, so I think I can fit God into that little space?! I don't think so. I feel lost riding and walking around Kinshasa, going, "WOAH, watch out, I'm the minority" like I'm entitled to better treatment. Actually they're human too, I owe them respect & compassion. Literally. Seriously. What was I thinking getting a bad attitude towards the little annoying street kids? They are actors, we all are, acting out parts in a play on our stage, where we try and direct ourselves, thinking we are in charge. Who's on the throne exactly? Who has any rights to cast any stones? Who is the ultimate judge? Um, Christiana, did you even check the huge fence in your own eye first before the little splinter in their eyes?! WAKE UP & SMELL IT. "Wake up & see the glory" - at first I wasn't too keen on the SCC song until I looked at the lyrics. I really needed a wake up call. I need to be more teachable. Why am I scared to admit that I actually get bored here? For one thing I felt out of the loop, disconnected, hating missing things back in the states like graduations or weddings, births (all the stages of life we actors go through) or sadly, funerals. I'm missing it. I'm totally not getting it. Okay then. I don't wanna miss any of it!! (I think there's a correlation to why I'm a light sleeper - I'm afraid I'll miss something, some bonding experience or some important tender moment or scene) I don't want to miss any teaching experience God has for me, or the right man for me. I am sick of missing out on watching my niece and nephew grow up. I am. I'm tired of it! I don't want to miss time without my family who were thousands of miles away. Now I'm living it, without most of my friends (have a few friends here tho! that's good) or my dog. I'm tired of missing out on worship, prayer, church, amazing Bible study AHA moments, and ministering, but when I get too much into it I'm overcommitted or overwhelmed, then I end up missing something, like a huge cycle. I'm tired of wishing I could be there for a friend to cry on my shoulder or asking, "Hey can I come over to find a holding space?" when that's impossible if everyone's busy at work, school, etc. I am aware that I wanted to eat comfort food to hide my stress. I wanted to reach out and be touched; I'm human, we all need to love & be loved, understand & be understood. It's just that I'm not as great as I thought I was."More of Him, less of me" - that's what I need to remember. He is "more than enough" for someone like me. Sigh. I am grateful for grace. thnx for listening - I know this probably needs serious editing. It's just my random feelings/freewriting....
The friend that went to be with the Lord achieved many victories for mankind:
"Be ashamed to die until you have scored a victory for mankind." Dr. TP Kalogris
The friend that went to be with the Lord achieved many victories for mankind:
"Be ashamed to die until you have scored a victory for mankind." Dr. TP Kalogris
Tuesday, February 5, 2008
Happy Mardi Gras/Fat Tues.!
Lessez les bon temps rouler!
- my cousin just taught me what they say in N.O. today:) (Let the Good Times Roll!)
Eat a lot of Creole for me!:) I am in Congo, where they speak French but they know a different Creole. We eat Congolese or French (Belgian, European), and my mama's good homemade (from scratch!) food. Here they'd say "Bon Fet!" (sp) for good party, or just to get a response or handout from you!:( It is fun. I don't have any beads to wear today. Oh well. Such is life.
It is a rainy day in the tropical rainforest of Kinshasa. So be it! I'm glad I'm feeling better today at least. I am enjoying my s l o w life here. However it means that I'm online much less often (which can be a good thing) just means that you (reader, friends) won't see much of me, and I will miss you.
- my cousin just taught me what they say in N.O. today:) (Let the Good Times Roll!)
Eat a lot of Creole for me!:) I am in Congo, where they speak French but they know a different Creole. We eat Congolese or French (Belgian, European), and my mama's good homemade (from scratch!) food. Here they'd say "Bon Fet!" (sp) for good party, or just to get a response or handout from you!:( It is fun. I don't have any beads to wear today. Oh well. Such is life.
It is a rainy day in the tropical rainforest of Kinshasa. So be it! I'm glad I'm feeling better today at least. I am enjoying my s l o w life here. However it means that I'm online much less often (which can be a good thing) just means that you (reader, friends) won't see much of me, and I will miss you.
From your Globetrotter...
So, I really like the idea of International Teaching.
Yeah I know right? Crazy. I used to think teaching wasn't for me, that I wasn't cut out for it. But I have 12 yrs of childcare experience, I love working with kids (just about any age), I love directing and children's theatre, so why not teaching drama right?! Insane. So, given the opportunity to teach and direct high school drama here in my new life in Congo, got me pursuing it. I would need to get my Certification done, that is key. I would like to pursue my masters in Fine Arts someday, just not right now, so I will look into Int'l Teaching and what all I need. But I really love it. I love traveling and I love teaching kids (esp. drama, since that's not "stand at the blackboard all day" it's using my education! HELLO) So it's an idea I can pray about and see what God wants.
I have had a quick cold which turned into a cough, then this wknd I got the fever and tummy bug going around, so either it's that or malaria, I'm taking meds for. I'm really not worried, I knew I'd get eaten alive(the bugs find the one spot I didn't cover in repellant), so I'm just really missing that suitcase that has my nutritional supplement inside.
God knows. Why worry? Life is so much slower, and more enjoyable here, on campus, with my family, in a good church, rather than my crazy past life in the states. He knows. He's faithful. So what, who cares and all that jazz...:)
"Be ashamed to die until you have scored a victory for mankind." Dr. TP Kalogris
Yeah I know right? Crazy. I used to think teaching wasn't for me, that I wasn't cut out for it. But I have 12 yrs of childcare experience, I love working with kids (just about any age), I love directing and children's theatre, so why not teaching drama right?! Insane. So, given the opportunity to teach and direct high school drama here in my new life in Congo, got me pursuing it. I would need to get my Certification done, that is key. I would like to pursue my masters in Fine Arts someday, just not right now, so I will look into Int'l Teaching and what all I need. But I really love it. I love traveling and I love teaching kids (esp. drama, since that's not "stand at the blackboard all day" it's using my education! HELLO) So it's an idea I can pray about and see what God wants.
I have had a quick cold which turned into a cough, then this wknd I got the fever and tummy bug going around, so either it's that or malaria, I'm taking meds for. I'm really not worried, I knew I'd get eaten alive(the bugs find the one spot I didn't cover in repellant), so I'm just really missing that suitcase that has my nutritional supplement inside.
God knows. Why worry? Life is so much slower, and more enjoyable here, on campus, with my family, in a good church, rather than my crazy past life in the states. He knows. He's faithful. So what, who cares and all that jazz...:)
"Be ashamed to die until you have scored a victory for mankind." Dr. TP Kalogris
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