So starts a favorite hymn. So ends 2007. Well, not exactly. I've got nothing against resolutions, in fact I just left Alicia's blog after voting on her poll concerning the same topic, however, resolutions seem destined to be broken, and there are some things that I want to change in 2008 and some goals I want to accomplish for which failure is not an option.
I'm going to end 2007 with a "personal" blog, sharing with you my "resolutions" for 2008.
1) Patience with my Children. Colossian 3:21 (NIV)21Fathers, do not embitter your children, or they will become discouraged.
2) Show my Wife I love her on a daily basis. Colossians 3:19 (NIV)19Husbands, love your wives and do not be harsh with them.
3) Improve my personal relationship with God. This is a broad spectrum, but trust me when I say that it's a big project. As I've learned from exercise experiences, small sustainable changes lead to real change. Changing all of me overnight is not typically how God works to refine us, and doing it on my own is impossible.
4) Improved physical fitness. This includes reducing my body fat content, improving general fitness scores, and changing my eating habits and those of my family.
5) Financial Peace. No not to the extremes Dave Ramsey advocates, although I find no fault in his philosophy. I will be working to further reduce my family's indebtedness, improve our saving's contributions, secure financial security for my family, with or without me, and of course, continue to leave the credit card companies disappointed because we don't use their products as frequently as they'd like us to and preferrably, not at all.
That pretty much sums it up. I'm wrapping up 2007 by gorging myself on every piece of junk food I can find. Today is pizza with the boys at Chuck E Cheese's. Jina and I decided last night to write off the balance of 2007 and attack 2008 with fresh resolve, so I'm looking forward to one more night of revelry. Perhaps a box of Twinkies. I can't even remember the last time I had a Twinkie.
Happy New Year, and I pray that you too are. "...resolved, no longer to linger, charmed by the worlds delights. Things that are higher, things that are nobler, these have allured my sights."
31 December 2007
29 December 2007
The Links
Army PFT Score sheet
PUSH-UPS (2 minutes)Push-ups measure the endurance of the chest, shoulder, and triceps muscles. Click here for Push-up Standards.
SIT-UPS (2 minutes)This event measures the endurance of the abdominal and hip-flexor muscles. Click here for Sit-up Standards.
TWO-MILE RUNThis event tests cardiorespiratory (aerobic) endurance and the endurance of the leg muscles. Click here for 2-mile Run Standards
KDF Training Schedule-Novice
http://www.derbyfestivalmarathon.com/training/pdfs/2008_miniMarathon_Novice_Training_Schedule.pdf
PUSH-UPS (2 minutes)Push-ups measure the endurance of the chest, shoulder, and triceps muscles. Click here for Push-up Standards.
SIT-UPS (2 minutes)This event measures the endurance of the abdominal and hip-flexor muscles. Click here for Sit-up Standards.
TWO-MILE RUNThis event tests cardiorespiratory (aerobic) endurance and the endurance of the leg muscles. Click here for 2-mile Run Standards
KDF Training Schedule-Novice
http://www.derbyfestivalmarathon.com/training/pdfs/2008_miniMarathon_Novice_Training_Schedule.pdf
28 December 2007
Survived
Ok,
I did survive Christmas. My oldest twin decided to detour our shopping/food preparations by taking a side trip to the ER on Christmas Eve. We tried the Immediate Care Center and they wouldn't touch him. He's ok now, antibiotics knocked out the early stages of strep. Scary thing was he never acted very sick. Jina caught sight of swollen lymph nodes and decided it was time to head to the doc. So, that made Christmas a bit hectic, but no major problems.
A couple running tid bits. If you plan on running the KDF mini or full marathon, training starts next month. I'll post a link to a training schedule. Second, don't forget about my January 2nd fitness test. I'll post the Army scoring system tomorrow. Lastly, my wife got me the "Stick" for Christmas. It is a handle with rollers on it (see your local running store) which allows you to work knots, soreness, and trigger points from your muscles. I've used it post workout and then this morning pre workout to warm up tired achy muscles. It's not scientific proof, but the first mile on the treadmill seemed to be looser and less painful than usual. I'll keep you posted on how it's working out, but just from two uses, I'd recommend it.
I did survive Christmas. My oldest twin decided to detour our shopping/food preparations by taking a side trip to the ER on Christmas Eve. We tried the Immediate Care Center and they wouldn't touch him. He's ok now, antibiotics knocked out the early stages of strep. Scary thing was he never acted very sick. Jina caught sight of swollen lymph nodes and decided it was time to head to the doc. So, that made Christmas a bit hectic, but no major problems.
A couple running tid bits. If you plan on running the KDF mini or full marathon, training starts next month. I'll post a link to a training schedule. Second, don't forget about my January 2nd fitness test. I'll post the Army scoring system tomorrow. Lastly, my wife got me the "Stick" for Christmas. It is a handle with rollers on it (see your local running store) which allows you to work knots, soreness, and trigger points from your muscles. I've used it post workout and then this morning pre workout to warm up tired achy muscles. It's not scientific proof, but the first mile on the treadmill seemed to be looser and less painful than usual. I'll keep you posted on how it's working out, but just from two uses, I'd recommend it.
24 December 2007
MERRY CHRISTMAS
From our family to all of you who take the time to read.
Merry Christmas and may God Bless your holiday and the year to come!
Luke 2 (King James Version)(Some passages just don't sound as good in any other translation)
1And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be taxed.
2(And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.)
3And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city.
4And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:)
5To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child.
6And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered.
7And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.
8And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.
9And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.
10And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.
11For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.
12And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.
13And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,
14Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.
Merry Christmas and may God Bless your holiday and the year to come!
Luke 2 (King James Version)(Some passages just don't sound as good in any other translation)
1And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be taxed.
2(And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.)
3And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city.
4And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:)
5To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child.
6And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered.
7And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.
8And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.
9And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.
10And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.
11For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.
12And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.
13And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,
14Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.
22 December 2007
All is calm, all is bright....
Pretty much sums up my running route this morning. The trip through Port Road to Utica was quiet. No flat bed semis with steel rolls, parking lots void of cars and workers, and the normal Saturday road traffic in and out of Utica was light.
This was my first run of over 1 hour in some time. Four miles out and back for a total of 8 miles. I wasn't blazing fast, but for some reason I didn't care this morning. From the minute I left my house I didn't care about my pace, well maybe a little, I knew what I didn't want to fall under, or is that over. Besides that general goal, I was just running. I wasn't agonizing over a work decision or issue, worrying about how my travel was affecting my family, thinking and rethinking my mom's health condition, or pushing myself to hit some magic mark on the watch dial. I was just running.
Some where around the 51/2 mile mark I became cognisant of the country song that was telling "If your running through hell, keep on going, don't slow down....you might get out before the devil even knows you're there." I thought about how true that was, how life like a run can sometimes best be survived by maintaining momentum, and making it through to another day. I whispered a simple "Thank You" prayer and kept going.
In the final mile I put together the general thought for this blog, and a plan for a night with the family. Beyond that, I spent 8 miles; 1 hour and 11 minutes thinking about absolutely nothing. It was great. Well there was also that brief moment when I asked myself if I was going to do the KDF Mini or Full Marathon.
Out the door to finish Christmas shopping. Merry Christmas!
This was my first run of over 1 hour in some time. Four miles out and back for a total of 8 miles. I wasn't blazing fast, but for some reason I didn't care this morning. From the minute I left my house I didn't care about my pace, well maybe a little, I knew what I didn't want to fall under, or is that over. Besides that general goal, I was just running. I wasn't agonizing over a work decision or issue, worrying about how my travel was affecting my family, thinking and rethinking my mom's health condition, or pushing myself to hit some magic mark on the watch dial. I was just running.
Some where around the 51/2 mile mark I became cognisant of the country song that was telling "If your running through hell, keep on going, don't slow down....you might get out before the devil even knows you're there." I thought about how true that was, how life like a run can sometimes best be survived by maintaining momentum, and making it through to another day. I whispered a simple "Thank You" prayer and kept going.
In the final mile I put together the general thought for this blog, and a plan for a night with the family. Beyond that, I spent 8 miles; 1 hour and 11 minutes thinking about absolutely nothing. It was great. Well there was also that brief moment when I asked myself if I was going to do the KDF Mini or Full Marathon.
Out the door to finish Christmas shopping. Merry Christmas!
20 December 2007
A little Christmas Music
This link was forwarded to me today and I thought it was neat, figured I'd share. I can't handle rounds singing "Row Row Row Your Boat", these guys are insane.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Fe11OlMiz8
Merry Christmas!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Fe11OlMiz8
Merry Christmas!
Fitness Challenge 2008
Sometime back I wrote about trying my luck with the Army's physical fitness test.
During a lunch conversation, one of my account managers and I were discussing fitness. He wasn't happy with his current weight level and missed his preretirement Army physique. So we hatched a plan.
Regardless of if you're in shape or out, you might want to join us. I'm doing it to benchmark and then measure my progress in 2008. No competition, just challenging ourselves. Here it is.
On January 2 we will test ourselves using the Army PFT guidelines.
Test #1 Push Ups - Number completed in 2 minutes, resting is allowed in the up position.
Test #2 Sit Ups - Number completed in 2 minutes, full sit ups, not crunches.
Test #3 2 mile run - timed two mile run
20 minutes allowed between each exercise.
We will then retest on March 1st to see if or how much we've improved. The nice thing is that this is a simple way to have a goal and to measure overall fitness. Another great thing is that it doesn't require special equipment.
I plan on testing myself throughout the year to see how I'm doing on overall fitness. Currently my cardio is pretty good, but my upper body strength is not as good as I'd like it to be, not to mention my core strength (gut).
Think about it....I'll try to get the scoring scale up in the next couple of days.
During a lunch conversation, one of my account managers and I were discussing fitness. He wasn't happy with his current weight level and missed his preretirement Army physique. So we hatched a plan.
Regardless of if you're in shape or out, you might want to join us. I'm doing it to benchmark and then measure my progress in 2008. No competition, just challenging ourselves. Here it is.
On January 2 we will test ourselves using the Army PFT guidelines.
Test #1 Push Ups - Number completed in 2 minutes, resting is allowed in the up position.
Test #2 Sit Ups - Number completed in 2 minutes, full sit ups, not crunches.
Test #3 2 mile run - timed two mile run
20 minutes allowed between each exercise.
We will then retest on March 1st to see if or how much we've improved. The nice thing is that this is a simple way to have a goal and to measure overall fitness. Another great thing is that it doesn't require special equipment.
I plan on testing myself throughout the year to see how I'm doing on overall fitness. Currently my cardio is pretty good, but my upper body strength is not as good as I'd like it to be, not to mention my core strength (gut).
Think about it....I'll try to get the scoring scale up in the next couple of days.
15 December 2007
Well the weather outside is frightful...
This morning's temp was, according to the Weather Channel, 33 degrees at the airport in Louisville. Here on the sunny side of Louisville, it was a bit colder. Toss in about two inches of sleet, and by the time I left the house, a rainy drizzle.
Where was I headed? The Reindeer Romp 4K! The roads were bad enough that, after testing out the capabilities of my Trail Blazer's multiple drive options in the Kmart parking lot, I placed the selector in 4 wheel drive (the ice was a bit much for the AWD setting) and headed to Cherokee Park in Louisville. I arrived uneventfully, but alone. Shortages of babysitters this time of the morning will likely keep my wife from running any of the winter races with me, and my usual "true blue" running partners had better sense. It was raining harder and the remaining ice made for piles of slush and 2" deep puddles. My feet were soaked just going to the registration table.
I had decided to have fun at this race, so I started mid-pack wearing a red and white technical shirt and a Santa Clause hat. I couldn't wait for the photos they usually take. At the start I eased out and just before the first downhill, I began to work my way to the front of the log jam I was in, quietly, but audibly singing, "Well the weather outside is frightful, but the snow...."
1/2 mile mark, feet are soaked, oh well, it'll be over soon, besides feet are too numb to notice.
1 mile , feet are warming up, I'm in the flat part of the course holding a respectable pace that I hope will conserve enough energy for the big hill.
Despite a recent lack of training, I handle the hill ok and recover fast enough to pick up the pace a bit on the downhill. One hill left to go. A fellow runner drifts a little and apologizes, I tell him "No problem, I'm sitting right here anyway." He's caught me on the downhill and with longer legs, I expect him to begin to pull away. He chimes in that his feet are numb, I tell him my right hand is frozen. Then the up hill and in two steps I'm pulling away. I begin to have the "slow up a bit thought" and tell myself "Christ's hill was a tougher climb!" It works. Besides I'm not running this to be competitive.
As we hit the last 70 yards, the fires are fueled. So much for not being competitive. Two potential targets to pick off, the first falls easily. They've narrowed the road with cones as I approach #2. I have to pass close by, he hears my foot falls, he digs deep for his final kick, I go to a full sprint. Amidst shouted warnings of slick spots in the finish chute, I ease in the final 2 yards and allow him to take the spot.
I finish 64th out of 349, 19:27:47 (7:49 pace). Not my best, but given my lack of preparation and the conditions I'll take it. My opponent, finished 2nd in his age group (20-24), the same time placed me 11th in mine (35-39). Snot nosed brat...;>) Oh yeah, where was the photographer, don't tell me he wasn't here!!!!
Overall winner ran a sub 14 minute 4K, but I'm impressed with the folks in the rear. The last place finisher spent over 43 minutes on the course. That's dedication. I was already half way home.
A month to get ready for the 5K...I'll be ready...
Where was I headed? The Reindeer Romp 4K! The roads were bad enough that, after testing out the capabilities of my Trail Blazer's multiple drive options in the Kmart parking lot, I placed the selector in 4 wheel drive (the ice was a bit much for the AWD setting) and headed to Cherokee Park in Louisville. I arrived uneventfully, but alone. Shortages of babysitters this time of the morning will likely keep my wife from running any of the winter races with me, and my usual "true blue" running partners had better sense. It was raining harder and the remaining ice made for piles of slush and 2" deep puddles. My feet were soaked just going to the registration table.
I had decided to have fun at this race, so I started mid-pack wearing a red and white technical shirt and a Santa Clause hat. I couldn't wait for the photos they usually take. At the start I eased out and just before the first downhill, I began to work my way to the front of the log jam I was in, quietly, but audibly singing, "Well the weather outside is frightful, but the snow...."
1/2 mile mark, feet are soaked, oh well, it'll be over soon, besides feet are too numb to notice.
1 mile , feet are warming up, I'm in the flat part of the course holding a respectable pace that I hope will conserve enough energy for the big hill.
Despite a recent lack of training, I handle the hill ok and recover fast enough to pick up the pace a bit on the downhill. One hill left to go. A fellow runner drifts a little and apologizes, I tell him "No problem, I'm sitting right here anyway." He's caught me on the downhill and with longer legs, I expect him to begin to pull away. He chimes in that his feet are numb, I tell him my right hand is frozen. Then the up hill and in two steps I'm pulling away. I begin to have the "slow up a bit thought" and tell myself "Christ's hill was a tougher climb!" It works. Besides I'm not running this to be competitive.
As we hit the last 70 yards, the fires are fueled. So much for not being competitive. Two potential targets to pick off, the first falls easily. They've narrowed the road with cones as I approach #2. I have to pass close by, he hears my foot falls, he digs deep for his final kick, I go to a full sprint. Amidst shouted warnings of slick spots in the finish chute, I ease in the final 2 yards and allow him to take the spot.
I finish 64th out of 349, 19:27:47 (7:49 pace). Not my best, but given my lack of preparation and the conditions I'll take it. My opponent, finished 2nd in his age group (20-24), the same time placed me 11th in mine (35-39). Snot nosed brat...;>) Oh yeah, where was the photographer, don't tell me he wasn't here!!!!
Overall winner ran a sub 14 minute 4K, but I'm impressed with the folks in the rear. The last place finisher spent over 43 minutes on the course. That's dedication. I was already half way home.
A month to get ready for the 5K...I'll be ready...
13 December 2007
Poll Surprise
When I posted the Polls about Christmas songs I was, due to space contraints, limited in what choices I could put up. No surprises in the secular category, although I voted for "Silver Bells", which I really like, I may actually consider "Christmas Bells (Snoopy and the Red Baron)" as my favorite, but it's a bit more obscure.
The hymns surprised me. I voted for "Silent Night", I thought for sure that would carry the day, but "Joy to the World" ran away with the votes. Best part about it, no real losers in that category. As I type this I realized I'd have to put "It Came Upon a Midnight Clear" right up there with "Silent Night" as well. Then there's "Go Tell it on the Mountain", especially the version by Mahalia Jackson. Tons of great tunes, no wonder I've been known to sing them in July.
Anyway, I'm wrapping up my travel for the year, I hope. Now maybe I can focus on running, I spent the last 24 hours with a nasty stomach bug (Thanks Jina for the early Christmas Present, keep it to yourself next time);>) so not much running despite great weather. Mainly I'm ready to focus on my family, friends, and Christmas. That's the great thing about Christmas and New Years. Maybe it's only me, but it helps me refocus on my Christ, on my family, and despite what is going on at work, I'm able to look back on another year of God's blessings and forward to a year of promise. 2008 is a blank slate waiting for me to make my mark.
Ok, I'm stoked about Christmas now!
The hymns surprised me. I voted for "Silent Night", I thought for sure that would carry the day, but "Joy to the World" ran away with the votes. Best part about it, no real losers in that category. As I type this I realized I'd have to put "It Came Upon a Midnight Clear" right up there with "Silent Night" as well. Then there's "Go Tell it on the Mountain", especially the version by Mahalia Jackson. Tons of great tunes, no wonder I've been known to sing them in July.
Anyway, I'm wrapping up my travel for the year, I hope. Now maybe I can focus on running, I spent the last 24 hours with a nasty stomach bug (Thanks Jina for the early Christmas Present, keep it to yourself next time);>) so not much running despite great weather. Mainly I'm ready to focus on my family, friends, and Christmas. That's the great thing about Christmas and New Years. Maybe it's only me, but it helps me refocus on my Christ, on my family, and despite what is going on at work, I'm able to look back on another year of God's blessings and forward to a year of promise. 2008 is a blank slate waiting for me to make my mark.
Ok, I'm stoked about Christmas now!
11 December 2007
He Ran and He Rants
OK, I worked out/ran tonight. Treadmill + Hotel Pool/Hot Tub area = Outrageous Humidity. 2 miles took me 20 minutes, I couldn't breath. I'm going to take advantage of the 80 degree weather here in Columbia, SC and hit the streets in the morning.
So anyway, I'm warming up the keyboard to continue my work day and thought I'd post something. Since I'm not running much, if you're willing to read on, I'll offer you a bit of rant and opinion. In deference to my Southern Baptist family's tradition of sitting in the back pew, I will title it as "The View from the Back Pew". (Author's note: Those who've pastored me in the past 10 years know that my wife and I don't sit in the back row now. At one time we sat in the second pew, right hand side, in deference to her family's hallowed spot. More recently we're prone to sit anywhere, mainly to confuse the Spirit and keep from feeling too many convictions during messages. Our church's sound system carries the message clearly to the last pew (row) and so the only way to avoid being convicted by the Spirit is to present a moving target......Please tell me you guys realize I'm just joking about the dodging the Spirit part and are smiling right now....please!)
The View From the Back Pew
In the Life section of the USA Today I found an article tonight about children's Bible story books. The article went on to outline two opposing positions on whether they should be literal or symbolic (i.e. Veggie Tales). Here's the link if you are inclined to read: http://www.usatoday.com/news/religion/2007-12-10-kids-bible-stories_N.htm
Did I miss something in the first 25 years of being a Christian? Seems like in the past two years there is a new wave of debate over Christian views and positions. Now I know that there have been differences of opinion for centuries over just about every issue and topic imaginable. Paul addresses a ton of them in his letters, which make up a large part of the New Testament, but now it has trickled all the way down to "How children's Bible story books should be written?"
Let me offer what appears to have been a tried and true method for decades. Use Old Testament and New Testament Bible stories to teach children the foundation of Christian beliefs. I've got nothing against Veggie Tales (lest a good friend despise me), but the story of David and Goliath is exciting without the fight being waged by food products.(Author's note: I do like some of the catchy tunes, they're almost impossible to get out of your head) On the other hand, I truly believe you can teach a child about a loving God without having him/her quote the scripture passages by book and verse (let that develop as they mature in faith) and memorizing the Greek manuscript.
Perhaps in the age of communication we think we have to either be part of it, or compete against it, and create exciting new ways to reach kids or rush headlong into asking them for professions of faith, before they even have a grasp of who God and Jesus are, in fear that we'll miss the opportunity. (Author's note: I think this leads to a lot of the "seeds in rocky soil" that Jesus talks about in his parable)
How about we keep it simple, tell the Bible stories as though we are telling a story about our childhood. Keep it easy to relate to and understand, but honest in its representation of who God is and what he wants both from and for His children? How about we write Sunday School lessons which build a foundation of Biblical knowledge through simple truths and the "classic stories"? If you've taught a youth or children's class you've seen lessons, come to think of it I've even seen adult lessons, which struggled to pull some relevant message from an obscure passage, so the author could continue working through a book of the Bible or on a specific theme.
Anyway, if you've read this far I hope you've grown weary of my rant. I've grown weary of typing it, and sit here questioning whether I should have written it to begin with. This is the same weariness I'm starting to feel over all these conservative vs. liberal Christian viewpoint arguments. I wonder how the non-believers who are subjected to the continual arguments feel about Christians and our faith?
Time to start running. It clears my head and gives me another topic upon which I don't have any business commenting.
So anyway, I'm warming up the keyboard to continue my work day and thought I'd post something. Since I'm not running much, if you're willing to read on, I'll offer you a bit of rant and opinion. In deference to my Southern Baptist family's tradition of sitting in the back pew, I will title it as "The View from the Back Pew". (Author's note: Those who've pastored me in the past 10 years know that my wife and I don't sit in the back row now. At one time we sat in the second pew, right hand side, in deference to her family's hallowed spot. More recently we're prone to sit anywhere, mainly to confuse the Spirit and keep from feeling too many convictions during messages. Our church's sound system carries the message clearly to the last pew (row) and so the only way to avoid being convicted by the Spirit is to present a moving target......Please tell me you guys realize I'm just joking about the dodging the Spirit part and are smiling right now....please!)
The View From the Back Pew
In the Life section of the USA Today I found an article tonight about children's Bible story books. The article went on to outline two opposing positions on whether they should be literal or symbolic (i.e. Veggie Tales). Here's the link if you are inclined to read: http://www.usatoday.com/news/religion/2007-12-10-kids-bible-stories_N.htm
Did I miss something in the first 25 years of being a Christian? Seems like in the past two years there is a new wave of debate over Christian views and positions. Now I know that there have been differences of opinion for centuries over just about every issue and topic imaginable. Paul addresses a ton of them in his letters, which make up a large part of the New Testament, but now it has trickled all the way down to "How children's Bible story books should be written?"
Let me offer what appears to have been a tried and true method for decades. Use Old Testament and New Testament Bible stories to teach children the foundation of Christian beliefs. I've got nothing against Veggie Tales (lest a good friend despise me), but the story of David and Goliath is exciting without the fight being waged by food products.(Author's note: I do like some of the catchy tunes, they're almost impossible to get out of your head) On the other hand, I truly believe you can teach a child about a loving God without having him/her quote the scripture passages by book and verse (let that develop as they mature in faith) and memorizing the Greek manuscript.
Perhaps in the age of communication we think we have to either be part of it, or compete against it, and create exciting new ways to reach kids or rush headlong into asking them for professions of faith, before they even have a grasp of who God and Jesus are, in fear that we'll miss the opportunity. (Author's note: I think this leads to a lot of the "seeds in rocky soil" that Jesus talks about in his parable)
How about we keep it simple, tell the Bible stories as though we are telling a story about our childhood. Keep it easy to relate to and understand, but honest in its representation of who God is and what he wants both from and for His children? How about we write Sunday School lessons which build a foundation of Biblical knowledge through simple truths and the "classic stories"? If you've taught a youth or children's class you've seen lessons, come to think of it I've even seen adult lessons, which struggled to pull some relevant message from an obscure passage, so the author could continue working through a book of the Bible or on a specific theme.
Anyway, if you've read this far I hope you've grown weary of my rant. I've grown weary of typing it, and sit here questioning whether I should have written it to begin with. This is the same weariness I'm starting to feel over all these conservative vs. liberal Christian viewpoint arguments. I wonder how the non-believers who are subjected to the continual arguments feel about Christians and our faith?
Time to start running. It clears my head and gives me another topic upon which I don't have any business commenting.
10 December 2007
Life is short...
Yes, two posts on one day, this one will be short.
Yesterday our Sunday School Lesson was on worry and anxiety. It included the following passage.
Matthew 6:25-27 NIV
25"Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes? 26Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? 27Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life[b]? (bold mine)
This was driven home to us today. A young lady whom Jina and I played co-ed softball with was killed in a car accident late this morning. She was not much older than our nieces and nephews and left behind a mother and four year old daughter. Keep them in your prayers, but also let this be a sober reminder. When you have the time hold your children close, call your parents, love your spouse or help a friend, do it. If you don't have the time, make it.
I did not know her well enough to feel the pains of grief, but it does hit very close to home, and as such, I was jarred into remembering what a fragile thing my life and the lives around me are.
May God bless your time with your family and friends this season and in the years to come.
James
Yesterday our Sunday School Lesson was on worry and anxiety. It included the following passage.
Matthew 6:25-27 NIV
25"Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes? 26Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? 27Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life[b]? (bold mine)
This was driven home to us today. A young lady whom Jina and I played co-ed softball with was killed in a car accident late this morning. She was not much older than our nieces and nephews and left behind a mother and four year old daughter. Keep them in your prayers, but also let this be a sober reminder. When you have the time hold your children close, call your parents, love your spouse or help a friend, do it. If you don't have the time, make it.
I did not know her well enough to feel the pains of grief, but it does hit very close to home, and as such, I was jarred into remembering what a fragile thing my life and the lives around me are.
May God bless your time with your family and friends this season and in the years to come.
James
Four Letter Word...
LIFE.
Consuming a lot of time right now. I haven't trained any at all since last week. Jet Lag, short nights, work, home improvements to my house and my parents, and don't forget Christmas shopping have all conspired against me.
I travel again tomorrow, so as usual, I may get into a normal trainging pattern for 2 or 3 days, then I've got to play electrician for the weekend.
Don't know if I'm going to run the Polar Bear Grand Prix opening 4K. I might just to see what happens with little running recently.
Oh well, now somewhere in all that I want to put together a Powerpoint of photos from our SICR year to share with others and try to get a few more people off the sidelines and training to walk/run the KDF Mini.
Merry Christmas all, and remember we usually make our own stress, so just don't do it this year. Enjoy the Holidays.
Consuming a lot of time right now. I haven't trained any at all since last week. Jet Lag, short nights, work, home improvements to my house and my parents, and don't forget Christmas shopping have all conspired against me.
I travel again tomorrow, so as usual, I may get into a normal trainging pattern for 2 or 3 days, then I've got to play electrician for the weekend.
Don't know if I'm going to run the Polar Bear Grand Prix opening 4K. I might just to see what happens with little running recently.
Oh well, now somewhere in all that I want to put together a Powerpoint of photos from our SICR year to share with others and try to get a few more people off the sidelines and training to walk/run the KDF Mini.
Merry Christmas all, and remember we usually make our own stress, so just don't do it this year. Enjoy the Holidays.
04 December 2007
Something From Years Gone By...2000-2001?
A CHRISTMAS TREE
by: James Wells
Ah yes, the Christmas tree, some plastic, some real, some pine, some fir. Big ones, small ones, fat ones, skinny ones, crooked, straight, bare spots, perfect shape, you name it everyone has their wants and wishes, needs and desires, likes and dislikes. But take a moment and let’s take another look at an old friend.
Does your Christmas tree reflect your life? I hope so. Let’s begin at the bottom. Stands come in several shapes and styles, and can be made from several different materials. No matter the shape or construction it must be sturdy and support the weight of the tree and all the lights and ornaments. Likewise we need a sturdy foundation in our lives. We must have a solid platform to hold us upright and allow us to bear not only our own burdens, but also those that get placed on us over the years.
If you opt for a live tree, then you must also keep it watered. Therefore our stands must be capable of holding water to nourish the tree day after day, helping to keep it fresh. Is the foundation that supports your life capable of doing just that? Replenishing you, feeding you. Does it help to sustain you when everything else seeks to leave you withered and fragile?
Moving up the tree we get to the good stuff. Bright lights, shiny ornaments, small treasures collected throughout the years. So you’re asking, “How is this like my life?” Each of our lives has bright moments, our own set of twinkling lights that help to make us who we are and help us to stand out. Sure, every now and then a bulb burns out. In a similar fashion, trouble may cause a small dark spot in our lives or perhaps tragedy darkens an entire “string” of your life. But, more often than not, we find that a brand new bright spot helps to bring back the light and we rejoice in the knowledge that those shining moments we thought were lost, are in fact as radiant as ever.
Each of us can remember making an ornament as a child. We can remember the pride we felt to see it on the tree. Parents, you no doubt have hung those ornaments upon the tree while reflecting back upon years gone by. “Here is the one that he made in the first grade..I still remember her painting this one...” Each one is treasured, each one covers and decorates the tree. Our memories cover and decorate our lives. Each one is a treasured memento of years gone by. No matter how worn, how battered, we cling to them because of the joy they bring. Yes, often they fade, dim, or become broken, yet, we cherish them as if they were new.
Here we are, at the top. What do you top off your tree with? Star, Angel, or Santa Claus. No matter which you choose, I hope your life is crowned in similar fashion. Whether it be like a star, a beacon of hope, a light used by others to find there way through the darkest nights they face. Maybe, like the angels, it brings Gods glory to others, offering them inspiration and comfort in times of need. Or, perhaps, in the same spirit as Santa Claus, your life is a reflection of unselfish and unrestrained giving.
So then, as we gather around our trees this Christmas, let us, let God use us as his Christmas trees. Let his love be your stand, let his word nourish you, let him be in control of the bright times, because only he can replace the burned out bulbs. Neither he nor you will forget the memories you share, and in the end you will find that he tops it all off by making your life an inspiration and guide to others.
by: James Wells
Ah yes, the Christmas tree, some plastic, some real, some pine, some fir. Big ones, small ones, fat ones, skinny ones, crooked, straight, bare spots, perfect shape, you name it everyone has their wants and wishes, needs and desires, likes and dislikes. But take a moment and let’s take another look at an old friend.
Does your Christmas tree reflect your life? I hope so. Let’s begin at the bottom. Stands come in several shapes and styles, and can be made from several different materials. No matter the shape or construction it must be sturdy and support the weight of the tree and all the lights and ornaments. Likewise we need a sturdy foundation in our lives. We must have a solid platform to hold us upright and allow us to bear not only our own burdens, but also those that get placed on us over the years.
If you opt for a live tree, then you must also keep it watered. Therefore our stands must be capable of holding water to nourish the tree day after day, helping to keep it fresh. Is the foundation that supports your life capable of doing just that? Replenishing you, feeding you. Does it help to sustain you when everything else seeks to leave you withered and fragile?
Moving up the tree we get to the good stuff. Bright lights, shiny ornaments, small treasures collected throughout the years. So you’re asking, “How is this like my life?” Each of our lives has bright moments, our own set of twinkling lights that help to make us who we are and help us to stand out. Sure, every now and then a bulb burns out. In a similar fashion, trouble may cause a small dark spot in our lives or perhaps tragedy darkens an entire “string” of your life. But, more often than not, we find that a brand new bright spot helps to bring back the light and we rejoice in the knowledge that those shining moments we thought were lost, are in fact as radiant as ever.
Each of us can remember making an ornament as a child. We can remember the pride we felt to see it on the tree. Parents, you no doubt have hung those ornaments upon the tree while reflecting back upon years gone by. “Here is the one that he made in the first grade..I still remember her painting this one...” Each one is treasured, each one covers and decorates the tree. Our memories cover and decorate our lives. Each one is a treasured memento of years gone by. No matter how worn, how battered, we cling to them because of the joy they bring. Yes, often they fade, dim, or become broken, yet, we cherish them as if they were new.
Here we are, at the top. What do you top off your tree with? Star, Angel, or Santa Claus. No matter which you choose, I hope your life is crowned in similar fashion. Whether it be like a star, a beacon of hope, a light used by others to find there way through the darkest nights they face. Maybe, like the angels, it brings Gods glory to others, offering them inspiration and comfort in times of need. Or, perhaps, in the same spirit as Santa Claus, your life is a reflection of unselfish and unrestrained giving.
So then, as we gather around our trees this Christmas, let us, let God use us as his Christmas trees. Let his love be your stand, let his word nourish you, let him be in control of the bright times, because only he can replace the burned out bulbs. Neither he nor you will forget the memories you share, and in the end you will find that he tops it all off by making your life an inspiration and guide to others.
03 December 2007
What is your base?
Ok, so a few days ago I blogged about obesity, but no I don't think everyone should look like a runway model or a professional athlete. Healthy is something we can all achieve, however, as askew as our eating habits are our popular descriptions/standards for a fit body.
I won't get into the whole anorexia topic, but unless you've lived in a cave the past ten years, you've seen or heard the stories of young women driven to extreme lengths to obtain the fashion magazine ideal size and shape. While not driven to these extremes, I can't help but wonder how many other women are affected by the same propoganda, and although this discussion will revolve around women, men are not exempt from setting unrealistic goals.
Hawaii's beaches allow for the ultimate in people watching, with multiple nationalities and ethnicities represented. During my visits I've noticed the different body traits of the different nationalities, and yes, I am typically looking at the women. Yes, my wife knows. We discussed this topic when she accompanied me, noting that the women provided greater opportunity for noticing the differences in body structure. What have I learned?
Without committing to making mistakes in labeling people at this point in my observation/learning process, let me describe some of the differences I've seen. Even among asian women you see distinct differences. One nationality tends to be very slender, while another's height to weight ratio seems very balanced, while yet a third trends toward short, compact, atheletic frames. Among Caucasian women, body types run the entire gamut, but on average it appears that European women are typically of a slighter build than their American and Australian counterparts. Those of polynesian desent appear to be predominantly athletic built, but disproportionately distributed. The older sister on the Disney cartoon, Lilo and Stitch, is a fair representation.
What does this have to do with the stuff I usually blog about? When setting fitness goals, don't set goals you can not attain. If you're a 5'2" athletic framed woman, you are not going to look like Halle Berry. If you are a small framed 6'2" man, you're not going to turn into the "Governator". Build your goals around what is ideal for your body type.
Among those body styles I described observing, I've seen fit and healthy examples of each, and as an old bumper sticker said so eloquentley, "I know I'm some body, 'cause God don't make no Junk!" Be healthy, then be content with who you are.
I won't get into the whole anorexia topic, but unless you've lived in a cave the past ten years, you've seen or heard the stories of young women driven to extreme lengths to obtain the fashion magazine ideal size and shape. While not driven to these extremes, I can't help but wonder how many other women are affected by the same propoganda, and although this discussion will revolve around women, men are not exempt from setting unrealistic goals.
Hawaii's beaches allow for the ultimate in people watching, with multiple nationalities and ethnicities represented. During my visits I've noticed the different body traits of the different nationalities, and yes, I am typically looking at the women. Yes, my wife knows. We discussed this topic when she accompanied me, noting that the women provided greater opportunity for noticing the differences in body structure. What have I learned?
Without committing to making mistakes in labeling people at this point in my observation/learning process, let me describe some of the differences I've seen. Even among asian women you see distinct differences. One nationality tends to be very slender, while another's height to weight ratio seems very balanced, while yet a third trends toward short, compact, atheletic frames. Among Caucasian women, body types run the entire gamut, but on average it appears that European women are typically of a slighter build than their American and Australian counterparts. Those of polynesian desent appear to be predominantly athletic built, but disproportionately distributed. The older sister on the Disney cartoon, Lilo and Stitch, is a fair representation.
What does this have to do with the stuff I usually blog about? When setting fitness goals, don't set goals you can not attain. If you're a 5'2" athletic framed woman, you are not going to look like Halle Berry. If you are a small framed 6'2" man, you're not going to turn into the "Governator". Build your goals around what is ideal for your body type.
Among those body styles I described observing, I've seen fit and healthy examples of each, and as an old bumper sticker said so eloquentley, "I know I'm some body, 'cause God don't make no Junk!" Be healthy, then be content with who you are.
02 December 2007
My Hawaiin 5K
- I awoke this morning to a 5am wake up call.
- Debated whether or not to run the local 5K race being held.
- Dressed,grabbed the 20oz Diet Pepsi bottle I've filled with water, hit the lobby ATM for cash, and head out with my GPS and MP3 Player.
- Raining. Oh well, it's just a light rain. Yep, 5 minutes later, no rain.
- Running towards the east side of Waikiki, through the main shopping street, lined with shops for Prada, Bulovia, Rolex, Christian Dior, etc.
- Checking the time, I don't see the barricade laying flat on the sidewalk, yep, tripped and fell. Only one observer, laugh it off and keep going.
- Arrive at park where race is to be held, 2.5 miles from my hotel.
- Arrive at the gas station that was, I thought, the spot for race day registration, 3 miles and it's not the right station.
- Back track, tack on another mile and I've found the right station. No one is there. Back to the park, I'll see if someone can help me there, maybe I should just do Diamond Head, no, wet rock on a single track mule path doesn't sound to smart.
- Find the starting line, race doesn't start at 7:30, it starts at 7:00, I'm there 45 seconds ahead of start. Oh well, so much for that.
- What the heck, I'll run it outlaw (unregistered and no timing chip), clock it with my GPS and compare later against the results, but man I wanted a t-shirt.
- Start at the back of the pack, picking off slower runners and moving up. Average pace shows 7:46, acceptable considering I had logged 5 miles when the gun went off. I'll hold this pace and save up for the second half of the race.
- At mile 1 I've falling to an 8:00 minute pace and the thought of running the race and then another 2.5 miles back sobers me and I pull out.
- Slow run back, starts to rain, starts to rain harder, rain replaces sweat in my running shorts, shirt, and shoes.
- Shoes are now so water logged I can hear the squishing over the sound of the wind and traffic.
- Left turn for the last 2 tenths to the hotel, ouch, gusting head wind and horizontal rain. 8 miles!!!
- Back to room, attempt to use central air on balcony to dry out my only pair of non-dress shoes, I don't catch my flight until 10 pm, not to mention I need dry shoes to go eat breakfast.
- Hot shower, call home, type up my post, pack up, clouds thinning (maybe I will get to the beach this trip), man I'm hungry.
- No Race T, No race time, but the memory of a run that lasted longer than it should have, which I'll probably hold on to longer than the T-Shirt.
- Now where am I going to eat? It has to be a buffet.....
Aloha
If you notice my miles are up this week, it's hard not to run here. Yep, after 37 years, I've now made three trips to Hawaii in 6 months. Up until today, lack of daylight hours and work have combined to keep me from seeing much beyond the streets of Waikiki and my hotel room. Today my local manager ran me across the mountains to Oahu's North Shore and the windward (West) side of the island.
This morning there were runners everywhere. A lot of locals and tourists today. One local group had 30 people on their training run. At another time I shared the sidewalk with a group of 7 or 8 other runners running together. Wow, if it weren't for all the runners I saw in New York and Hawaii, our national obesity rate might be pushing 40%...LOL.
I am sitting here at 8 pm HST trying to decide whether to run up Diamond Head Crater or spend $30 to sign up and run a 5k in the morning. Fun part, I've got to run 2+ miles from my hotel to the starting line, and then 2 miles back. I'll keep you posted.
Banzai Pipeline
More big surf on the Windward Side
This morning there were runners everywhere. A lot of locals and tourists today. One local group had 30 people on their training run. At another time I shared the sidewalk with a group of 7 or 8 other runners running together. Wow, if it weren't for all the runners I saw in New York and Hawaii, our national obesity rate might be pushing 40%...LOL.
I am sitting here at 8 pm HST trying to decide whether to run up Diamond Head Crater or spend $30 to sign up and run a 5k in the morning. Fun part, I've got to run 2+ miles from my hotel to the starting line, and then 2 miles back. I'll keep you posted.
Banzai Pipeline
Me at Banzai Pipeline
More big surf on the Windward Side
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