When the Music Fades

Song Comparison

2008-07-05T20:33:00.000-07:00

Ok, take a look at these songs... They are done to the same tune...
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Devil Went Down to Georgia:
The devil went down to Georgia, he was looking for a soul to steal.
He was in a bind 'cos he was way behind: he was willin' to make a deal.
When he came across this young man sawin' on a fiddle and playin' it hot.
And the devil jumped upon a hickory stump and said: "Boy let me tell you what:
"I bet you didn't know it, but I'm a fiddle player too.
"And if you'd care to take a dare, I'll make a bet with you.
"Now you play a pretty good fiddle, boy, but give the devil his due:
"I bet a fiddle of gold against your soul, 'cos I think I'm better than you."
The boy said: "My name's Johnny and it might be a sin,
"But I'll take your bet, your gonna regret, 'cos I'm the best that's ever been."

Johnny you rosin up your bow and play your fiddle hard.
'Cos hells broke loose in Georgia and the devil deals it hard.
And if you win you get this shiny fiddle made of gold.
But if you lose, the devil gets your soul.

The devil opened up his case and he said: "I'll start this show."
And fire flew from his fingertips as he resined up his bow.
And he pulled the bow across his strings and it made an evil hiss.
Then a band of demons joined in and it sounded something like this.
When the devil finished, Johnny said: "Well you're pretty good ol' son.
"But if you'll sit down in that chair, right there, and let me show you how its done."

Fire on the moun, run boys, run.
The devil's in the house of the risin' sun.
Chicken in the bread pin, pickin' out dough.
"Granny, does your dog bite?"
"No, child, no."

The devil bowed his head because he knew that he'd been beat.
He laid that golden fiddle on the ground at Johnny's feet.
Johnny said: "Devil just come on back if you ever want to try again.
"I told you once, you S*O*B*, I'm the best that's ever been."

And he played fire on the mount, run boys, run.
The devil's in the house of the risin' sun.
Chicken in the bread pin pickin' out dough.
"Granny, does your dog bite?"
"No, child, no."

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Devil Went Down to Jordan:
The devil went down to the Jordan
He was lookin' for a show to steal
He was in a bind 'cause Jesus came to find
The people willing to make it real
And he came upon the Son of Man
Saw He had no vittles and was prayin' to God
Then the devil jumped upon the chance to tempt Him
Said "Boy, let me tell ya, it's hot!"
"I guess you didn't know it but I'm a vittle craver too
"And kid I'm scared this desert air might get the best of you
"Now you ain't been eatin' your vittles boy
"But, kid, your dinner is due
"So if you're really God's son, then turn these stones
To bread and I'll butter it for you."
The Lord said, "I am hungry, but that would be a sin
"Cause it ain't by bread man's gonna be fed
"But by the Word God's given him."
John the Baptist washed the Lord and there's where it all starts
Cause Jesus left the Jordan and the devil hit Him hard
And if He wins we get to walk on Heaven's streets of gold
But if He sins, the devil gets your soul
The devil took Him up in space and said, "Christ, start to throw
"Yourself off of this temple top as I'm watchin' from below
"Cause I'm sure You know that God will bring
“All His angels to assist
“And then men would believe that You're Him
“If they saw You did something like this"
When the devil finished, Jesus said
"Well, you're temptin' God, old son
And it's written down in that book right there
That thing shouldn't ever be done”
Shout from the mountain what God's done
The devil ain't a match for the rising Son
You can never tempt God, did you not know
Man, he doesn't live by bread alone
The devil finally said, "Jesus, if You'll just worship meThe devil went down to the Jordan
He was lookin' for a show to steal
He was in a bind 'cause Jesus came to find
The people willing to make it real
And he came upon the Son of Man
Saw He had no vittles and was prayin' to God
Then the devil jumped upon the chance to tempt Him
Said "Boy, let me tell ya, it's hot!"
"I guess you didn't know it but I'm a vittle craver too
"And kid I'm scared this desert air might get the best of you
"Now you ain't been eatin' your vittles boy
"But, kid, your dinner is due
"So if you're really God's son, then turn these stones
To bread and I'll butter it for you."
The Lord said, "I am hungry, but that would be a sin
"Cause it ain't by bread man's gonna be fed
"But by the Word God's given him."
John the Baptist washed the Lord and there's where it all starts
Cause Jesus left the Jordan and the devil hit Him hard
And if He wins we get to walk on Heaven's streets of gold
But if He sins, the devil gets your soul
The devil took Him up in space and said, "Christ, start to throw
"Yourself off of this temple top as I'm watchin' from below
"Cause I'm sure You know that God will bring
“All His angels to assist
“And then men would believe that You're Him
“If they saw You did something like this"
When the devil finished, Jesus said
"Well, you're temptin' God, old son
And it's written down in that book right there
That thing shouldn't ever be done”
Shout from the mountain what God's done
The devil ain't a match for the rising Son
You can never tempt God, did you not know
Man, he doesn't live by bread alone
The devil finally said, "Jesus, if You'll just worship me
Then I’ll give you gold that glitters
All these crowns, and all You see"
Jesus said, "Devil, just turn on back
Cause I'm never gonna buy your scam
I love God too much, I'm gonna resist
I'd suggest you'd better scram!"
And we say
CHORUS
Then I’ll give you gold that glitters
All these crowns, and all You see"
Jesus said, "Devil, just turn on back
Cause I'm never gonna buy your scam
I love God too much, I'm gonna resist
I'd suggest you'd better scram!"
And we say
CHORUS

Music Article by Nathan

2008-06-30T13:35:00.000-07:00

Hey all, the following is an article by Nathan, and does not reflect my beliefs... Read my comments...

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In the beginning man was perfect. He lived in a perfect relationship with the triune God. Within this communion, everything was a beautiful song, like a poem written out by a perfect poet. When man broke this covenant, he was marred forever, he no longer could “dance” the “dance” of perfection. His mind was marred, and he rebelled against God. No longer would he be able to do things perfect, he would not be able to live the poem out perfectly. God in His awesome grace came down to him to find him. There in the garden, He established a new beautiful covenant with Adam. Within that covenant He told Adam of the war that was going to happen between the seed of Eve and the seed of the Serpent. This was the beginning where history would work towards man living in perfect, beautiful fellowship with God again (by God’s grace).

Throughout history man has tried to mar the things that God has created good.[1] In and of itself music is not inherently evil; it is what man does with it that makes it evil. No one could ever say that Genevan tunes, Gregorian chants, or Wesley’s tunes are perfect. What the church was trying to do here though, was to attain to the beauty and perfection that will reflect the beauty of communion with God. Someday all these tunes will attain perfection when we come into perfect communion with God.

Man in his sinful state has marred the music which God has made good. How are we supposed to redeem music that has been marred? God has called us to make it good again. Do not condemn all rock because of this. We are called to change it to make it beautiful again, because man in his sinful state has made it ugly. Generally rock is ugly because wicked men have made it that way. It cannot work to stick beautiful words with ugly music. Christians are not called to keep rock the same, they are called to change it, to make it beautiful again. Music will then change from rock to what is more beautiful, something which reflects the beauty of our relationship with the triune God. Just imagine the beauty of it. This relationship is not being whipped up into a frenzy, but it is a deeper relationship.

The church should not go to the world to find music that will display a genuine relationship with God. How can that work when the world does not have a genuine relationship with God? What the world has made ugly, God will in His grace change to look beautiful again. This does not mean that we enjoy rap and rock where it is at. In fact we damn it, because it is the sinful world’s evidence of it’s hate towards God. We work together within the holy communion of believers to show an evidence of the deeper context of faith, of communion with the triune God. No more dissonance in music, but a deeper melodic rhythm which will show our relationship with the triune majesty. Let us strive to bring down the satanic beat of rock, but to build a new foundation where we will dance to the melodic rhythm of the triune God. Let us work within the fellowship of God’s saints to perfect the deeper wonders of Genevan tunes, classical music, Gregorian chants, Wesleyan music, and maybe even some contemporary music so that we can dance the beautiful dance of the triune majesty. We break down the ugly music of this satanic world, in order to build a music that praises the wonders of God’s amazing glory.

Yup...

2008-06-26T20:13:00.000-07:00

Hey, can I get some more ppl commenting on my music article? Thanks...

Oh, and here's what I read at my grandmother's funeral...

In the last couple of days when I have been asked on which side my grandmother passed away, I have said "my mom's stepmom." In response the reaction has been, "Oh, so she really wasn't your grandmother." But Grandma Pearl has been nothing less than that to me and my siblings. She loved us with hugs, kisses, and care so that not until I was older did I realize she wasn't genetically related.

I remember how she'd sit in the comfy chair watching us play and just enjoying us. Every time we'd visit she always made sure there was cookies and juice, and once in a while her special deviled eggs which she knew I appreciated so much.

Staying overnight she took me on walks and talked to me the way grandmothers should. The thing I remember most about Grandma Pearl, though, is her faith. Grandma Pearl's faith was genuine, and the Lord was certainly with her and she in Him. Grandma Pearl's "good deeds" as some would say were not simply because she was a good person, but because Christ was her Lord and all she did was to glorify Him.

If she was here today, I'm sure she would be the first to say with the Apostle Paul: "15The saying is(A) trustworthy and deserving of full acceptance, that Christ Jesus(B) came into the world to save sinners,(C) of whom I am the foremost. 16But I received mercy for this reason, that in me, as the foremost, Jesus Christ might display his perfect patience as an example to those who were to believe in him for eternal life."

She, herself would say that it is only God's grace that made her the person she was, and I thank God that He worked in her. She is an example to all of us of God's goodness in one person's life. God showed us His mercy and His goodness through this woman of faith and steadfast conviction.

If Grandma Pearl could say one last thing to us all, I believe she would quote two passages with which she was very familiar...

" 1For everything there is a season, and(A) a time for every matter under heaven:
2a time to be born, and a time to(B) die;a time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted; 3a time to kill, and a time to heal;a time to break down, and a time to build up; 4a time to(C) weep, and a time to laugh;a time to mourn, and a time to(D) dance;"

It is ok to grieve that this loved one is no longer with us, but know that this was her declaration:

Yes, and I will rejoice, 19for I know that(AF) with(AG) the help of(AH) the Spirit of Jesus Christ this will turn out for my deliverance, 20.it is my eager expectation and hope(AI) that I will not be at all ashamed, but that with full(AJ) courage, now as always, Christ(AK) will be honored in my body,(AL) whether by life or by death. 21For to me(AM) to live is Christ, and to die is gain. 22If I am to live in the flesh, that means fruitful labor for me. Yet which I shall choose I cannot tell. 23(AN) I am hard pressed between the two. My desire is(AO) to depart and(AP) be with Christ, for that is far better.

Loooong Music Article

2008-06-21T09:39:00.000-07:00

After a looong exam day I was upset by some videos on youtube I saw about contemporary Christian music, so I wrote this. It's in a pretty angry mood, but I still think what I wrote expresses what I believe concerning the subject.
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-Word disection.
-Christian: follower/member of Christ. Seeking to glorify God.
-Contemporary: new and modern.
-Music: "the science or art of ordering tones or sounds in succession, in combination, and in temporal relationships to produce a composition having unity and continuity"

CCM then equals "New art of ordering tones or sounds in succession, in combination, and in temporal relationships to produce a composition having unity and continuity to the glory of God."

In the 16th and 17th century hymns were considered contemporary. Martin Luther was a founder of the regulative principle of worship which sought to end "exclusive psalmody". Exclusive psalmody stated that Psalms were the only Biblical songs allowed to be song, and usually without accompaniement.

So in years past CC music was what we now sing today as normative and orthodox. We don't go shouting down hymns just because unbelievers enjoy classical music do we? We should not be quick to do the same to today's CCM.

Picture for a second(a couple centuries ago) a man is walking down the street and hears voices singing! The thoughts that come to his mind are "Of all things they are singing the psalms, and they are even using a stringed instrument! We are to be separate from the world, not join in their revelry just because we enjoy it." He then hastens to chasten the group of young people for their sin. "That type of music is not fitting for Christians to listen to and "sing". They must be content with the chanting of psalms past down by our fathers. That racket is no different from the bar music playing down the street. Chanting is harmonous and rich in and of itself, there is no need to bring strange fire to the altar of God!"

Ok, that may sound strange when you read it. Just think of that same person walking down the street today... He hears a group of young people singing along with the christian radio station. "Of all things they are singing rocky music, and they are even using a bass and drums! We are to be separate from the world, not join in their sexually stimulatation just because we enjoy it." He then hastens to chasten the group of young people for their sin. "That type of music is not fitting for Christians to listen to and "sing". They must be content with the hymns and psalms we've been singing for decades. That racket is no different from the music playing in walmart. Hymns are melodic and soothing. These people cannot bring this devilish fire to the altar of God!"

Now, before I continue, I want to make some things clear. I am not trying to say that rock music should be played in service-that is a completely different topic, and not one I wish to get into right now. As far as that goes, I believe that rock and roll is not appropriate for a worship service, but there are some "praise and worship" songs that could be sung during service such as "In Christ Alone". Anyway, I also don't want you to think that the only reason we should listen to CCM is because it's new. Just keep reading please...

Dissonance. I'm starting here, because this is one attack on CCM music that simply irks me. It presumes that certain types of music are evil, because the dissonance in their sound is presumably contrary to what the Bible commands. The problem is assuming that dissonance is itself evil, and that an individual can absolutely know when a piece of music is dissonant. I am not a relativist, and so I will not say that dissonance depends on what a person thinks about a piece of music. I will say that there is an absolute perfect way to praise God, but He has not revealed that physical way. The Bible doesn't say that dissonant music is evil, and even if it did-my definition of dissonant music is different from yours. While I am growing to like certain types of classical music, much of it sounds dissonant to me. Does that mean that that classical music is wrong? No, all it means is that I can't hear the resolution of the clashing notes and chords. I simply do not have enough practice listening to it to hear the resolution coming. The same goes for "contemporary" music. Just because you haven't taken the time to listen to contemporary music so that you can understand the melodies and harmonies which *DO* exist does not mean they're not there. Dissonance is an intrical part of music, and without it there is no mystery or curiosity to music. It is essential, and just because you can't hear it or don't like it doesn't mean it's Biblically wrong or not God glorifying.

My next point is concerning the beat. Ok, my first question is do you find anywhere in Scripture that beat is wrong, or that there are certain types of beats that are ungodly? The answer is a plain and simple no. Anyone with any musical aptitude(not including me, but...) knows that beat is essential to any piece of music. Just because rock, rap, and other contemporary music happens to have a louder and more resounding beat doesn't make it wrong. The whole argument that the beat originates from "african tribal calling up of demons" is a load of hogwash. Do you really think that beat didn't exist until North Americans happened upon some natives pounding on a drum? Even if the "anapestic beat" which is accused of being evil in contemporary music did originate from such-it doesn't make a difference. The world uses video cameras to make movies, so do Christian directors. The world uses anepestic beat, so do Christian music writers. Just because something is used in an improper way by the ungodly, doesn't make that something ungodly in and of itself.

"Bodily rythms" I will barely touch on for the simple reason of contradiction. The people who claim that rock beats can throw the heart beat into a frenzy and sexually stimulate are the same people who say the same beat causes depression. A quick second point is the evidence. When rock music is playing on the radio in a store-do you see people balling their eyes out in depression, or having heart attacks from "unhealthy" raised heart beats?

I don't deny the affect of music on the body, just whether those affects are ungodly or not. During times of meditation my heart beat is slow as I'm in prayerful consideration. After a convicting sermon and we sing a convicting song my heart beat rises as tears well in my eyes. There is nothing wrong with either of these. The problem is when someone tries to lay guilt on another for having an emotional response to something emotional. People are made to be emotional, and to have physical responses. That should not be the main goal of anyting made or listened to to glorify God, but it is simply a reality. There is a time and place for everything. Maybe I'm listening to "Forgive Me" by Rebecca St. James-a piece with lots of soothing piano and a slow somber mood. Or maybe I'm listening to "Absolute" by Thousand Foot Krutch which causes feelings of righteous anger against this relative world. Both attitudes and moods are righteous in the sight of God.

"So much music treats Jesus like a boyfriend/girlfriend" This is one which confuses me. If we are supposed to be Christians with a Christian worldview-why would this even be a consideration. My presupossitions force me to view everything in the light of Scripture-including music. Here's the lyrics to "Draw Me Close" by Michael W. Smith which I posted on my blog a while ago.

Draw me close to You
Never let me go
I lay it all down again
To hear You say that I'm Your friend

You are my desire
No one else will do
Cause nothing else could take Your place
To feel the warmth of Your embrace

Help me find the way, bring me back to You

You're all I want
You're all I've ever needed
You're all I want
Help me know You are near

Now the reason I picked this was because I read on a KJV Only(Fundamentalist/Legalist/UnScriptural group) that this song is "clearly about a girl". You know what-if you are an insecure unbeliever whose thoughts never go beyond bf/gf love and sex, you just might take the song that way. However, as a believer I come to everythign through the worldview that I am a Christian(a follower of Christ who is my Creator and Sustainer). Thus when I read "You" I think God. "Never let me go"-I am indwelt by the Holy Spirit who will never let me go. "I lay it all down again"-I think I lay down all I am "to hear You say that I'm your friend"(a restored relationship with God".

As we have learned from our catechism and apologetics, the minds of natural man are so mangled that anything can be twisted to fit into demented thought. The mind of regenerate man is different though! We see things from a renewed perspective granted by God! In light of this I make a case that the Christian could even listen to secular music and praise God through it, because our minds are interpreting the songs differently.

Just as an unbeliever may take the above song to be speaking about a bf/gf relationship, I can take a secular song and use it to praise God. The origins of the music itself do not matter. What man has intended for evil, God(by the renewing of our minds) can make good by the awesome transformation of our minds.

Funny Thing

2008-05-22T20:50:00.001-07:00

Ok, so maybe you heard me talking about this, or maybe not.

So yesterday(Wednesday) I was working with the one girl Miranda at DQ(she was homeschooled in virtual learning like me so we get along). Anyway, since she was there Bob(my main boss and the owner) thought he would go out for groceries/chores. So he asked her if she felt comfortable taking the ice cream machine apart, cleaning it, and putting it back together. She said sure no problem.

Anyway, she takes it all apart and cleans it, and sets it up. Later on we realize milk leaking out of the fridge where the ice cream is. So I clean up the mess and she kinda freaks about it. So she wants to fix the tube so it doesn't leak-which means removing it and then retightening it.

She asks me for help holding the pail for the excess so we were both standing with our faces towards it. She says "Hm... I think there's air bubbles-I hope it doesn't explo-!" And BANG! Ice cream in milk form exploded in our faces. Like I mean our faces were right beside it and there was milk everywhere.

The expression on her face was priceless, her hair was blown back, her eyes were wide, her jaw dropped open, and she had milk all over her face and in her eyes. I wasn't much better, but I had an apron on, and I couldn't see out of my glasses. It was hilarious, but I guess you had to be there. It must have been funny for Heather who heard the bang and opens the fridge to check on us and sees us both standing there with milk in our hair and all over the place.

Poor Miranda didn't know whether to laugh or cry, but I was laughing like crazy and couldn't stop all night. For the next couple hours Miranda kept touching her hair which was shiny with milk. Melissa the other manager walked in for her shift and said "Miranda, your hair looks greasy." and Miranda was like "SHUT UP!"... yeah... good times... sorry if that's boring or doesn't make sense. Had to share it, and I just finished a dozen hours of chem...

On Another Note

2008-05-13T05:45:00.000-07:00

Ok, so yeah I have to do public school curriculum for English, and of course SHAKESPEARE is mandatory reading. Man alive, it is soooo boring. I've heard that some Christian curriculum includes reading Shakespeare, or even that some people read it for fun?

Like why are these pieces of garbage so revered? Shakespeare has no literary talent in the least-there's no imagery in the sense that you can't place yourself in the scene very well. The writing is atrocious-I mean I know it's in old English, but even then it's still bad.

The story is boring and crude, the "poetry" is horrible, and I can't imagine any good reason to read it. I just don't understand it. Yet another reflection on our society and culture, when stories of hate, deception, and pornography are the "classics", considered "beautiful" :S, and the "creme da la crop".

Thank you Lord for C. S. Lewis and Tolkien! Thank you for the awesome stories you placed in their hearts to symbolize but a shadow of your Magnificence!

Experience at the Sikh Temple

2008-05-13T05:28:00.000-07:00

So last night most of our Apologetics class went to visit the "Sikh Community Centre" in Toronto. After Pastor Zekveld explained a little about what they were about, and some of the things to not do while we were in there(refrain from laughing so as to not disrespect them), we stepped into the building. Without wanting to be melodramatic, it was somewhat scary.

The first thing I noted personally was the look on the faces of the people going into the "sanctuary" to kneel. Not a single smile on anyone's face, and when they cross their hearts and bow it's nothing more than a sign of fearful respect rather than coming before a mercifully just God. It might sound strange, but you could actually see in their eyes a lack of hope and assurance.

The high priests at the front greeted us with plastic smiles, and then we took our shoes off and put a bandana on. I never did ask what the bandana symbolized, but on it went :) The orange was Ben's color for sure. The bandanas suiting some better than others, I did my best to not lol, and followed our english speaking guide.

He described the building to us, and the significance of some of the logos and paintings. In the main "sanctuary" a man sat underneath a blinking LED palace shape reading "the guru". When I saw those blinking lights I had the image of blinking neon sign saying "Get your idols here". While all of this was interesting from an inquisitive perspective, it was the discussion with the guide that proved the most interesting.

He described how they follow ten men called "gurus" who were perfect men who never sinned, but were not gods or God. He put a lot of emphasis on the fact that they were monotheistic, and that that is what they and Christians have in common. Anyway, the tenth guru said there would be no gurus after him except for the books that he and the others before him had written. And so they consider their books as real gurus who must be put to bed at night and tucked in.

Of everything that we talked about the most profound thing was that they are unsure of anything except death. Even when I asked him about the existence of God, he could only point to creation-he had no real sense or knowledge of his existence. The only thing to be sure of is that death happens, and a person's body no longer exists. You either do good works and die into nonexistence, or you do "bad things" and come back as a lesser creature. No mediator, you are the only one who can account for your wrong, forgiveness doesn't exist if your repentance isn't real, and in the end death is all you can look forward to.

Christian Contemporary Music Survey

2008-04-19T19:18:00.000-07:00

Hey, so I think I'm going to write some articles on this. I don't know how many people actually look at my blog, but yeah...

What I need to know is what the main points of Christian rock critics have? So far I know a couple, but I think I've missed some.

-Be separate from the world(shouldn't identify with the world)
-The beat(the beat is unholy, and derived from(african headhunter communication(or something like that))
-The genre: some genres are not redeemable.
-There are better things to listen to.
-Most Christian contemporary artists do not mention the name of "Jesus" in their songs.

Am I missing some or should I refine some?

IN YER FACE!

2008-04-15T20:47:00.000-07:00

So, this is a pretty typical discussion, but just want to get some thoughts.

While we've all been taught(Biblically) to be bold in our faith-where's the line? I mean, where do we go from being bold in the faith to being overly-zealous? I mean, we know the dangers of teaching a "lovey dubby" God is that He "just accepts you as your are", and that "He doesn't care about what you've done", but how do we communicate the true and Mercifully Just God of the Bible?

So this is based a little bit on some statements by my co-worker. She was telling me how she's been working at DQ and as a Christian showing the love of Christ. Her words: "I'm not in your face with them, and like trying to be over the top." She's just "Let the other employees know that I love them and God loves them..."

On one hand I understand the unBiblical view as that's what I know through catechism(Christ loves BELIEVERS, and we are called to be bold)-yet on the other hand this girl is being a witness. I, personally, am not afraid what people think of me, but if they think I'm some over the top "hyper-religious", "hard-core", "Bible thumper", and "goody goody"-what is that reflecting about Christ and His church?

School Project

2008-04-08T18:07:00.000-07:00

So yeah, kinda dorky, but I actually based it off of something I saw on tv where they actually made guitars out of plastic and they sounded REALLY good.

Schools are Scary

2008-03-27T19:39:00.000-07:00

Ok, so I'm homeschooled, and don't know what the public school's like, but still...

Ok, so some of you may know that I went for my literacy test today(Thursday). Well in between the tests, I go to the washroom, and there's a dude dealing some drug(crack, dope, not sure) right out of the stall. Not sure what to do-I do "my business"-walk out and run to the office. I told the guidance counselor and he ran to the bathroom and caught one of the guys.

When I mentioned this story to a certain individual, she/he(keep you guessing ;) ) said "welcome to real school." What am I supposed to think about such a statement? I mean is this like "welcome to reality"-I hope not, because no matter what school is-it shouldn't be that. So yeah...

A Decision to Make

2008-03-27T19:38:00.000-07:00

Ok, so you know how we had those discussions about music waaay back when(like 2-3 years ago), and we said "we shouldn't discuss this anymore cuz no one's going to change their mind." Well I've done a bit of research, and found a lot of great resources since then. Dare I bring up the topic once more? Or maybe I should send in a series of articles to Zk's for the Silhouette. What think you?

End the Conflict

2008-03-19T04:47:00.000-07:00

Hey photographers, take a look.
http://photojojo.com/content/tips/legal-rights-of-photographers/

Let me know what you think. New post to come.

Interesting Question

2008-02-22T07:42:00.000-08:00

From my chemistry module: "Why do the properties of elements follow these trends?". It's interesting, because we're going through all the trends that the periodic table follows, and it's kinda funny how this question is never really answered. All that's given is that "this law exists, because of this other law". There's no actual definite answer given.

Reminds me of the Causal Principle that I've been reading about. Darwinists try to eliminate the need for God as a cause, but all they end up doing is providing another cause for a cause.

It's incredible how unregenerate man strives against the things of God to the point of denying logic, and creating theories that just cause more problems. The truth is right in front of them!!!

"Whoever trusts in his own mind is a fool,but he who walks in wisdom will be delivered." Proverbs 28:26

Personal Anecdote

2008-02-15T04:55:00.000-08:00

For our first module of English we had to write a "personal anecdote" which is basicly a short story about something that's happened to you or in your life. Yeah, it's a bit of a dramatization and a little longer than the 3 sentences most of the students did, but hey :) I like to write-what can I say?

______________________________

I awake at 7:00 in the morning to the sounds of my siblings, parents, and uncle starting their day with a multitude of noises. For one brief second I am content with no worries and no cares. Then the thought comes to me... "My drive test is today!", and suddenly I'm too anxious for words.

After failing my first run, the pressure is on. My parents would like to go away for the weekend, my uncle needs a ride to work, and my sisters need to be dropped of at camp. All of these plans rely on how I do in those ten minutes of hell. Oh the effect nervousness has on the mind!

Throughout the morning I pray-not just for a good outcome, but for a good attitude for when I fail. I pray for confidence and courage to endure. I'm under so much stress I need to pop advil to keep the headache away.

The time comes, and we drive to the test center. At the front desk I'm told to go wait in the car for that one person who holds my fate in the scratchings of her pen. My heart beats faster and faster as I see student after student come back from their tests... crestfallen.

She spots the family car, and approaches. A peace comes over me, and the beating heart slows. We start out, and I follow her directions to a tee. The dreaded parallel parking comes, and I mess up not two or three times, but four. After those few minutes, I notice everything I'm doing wrong. We finally park once again, and I'm angry and mad at myself for failing.

Then those unexpected words "but you did pass" seep from her lips, and I'm stunned. I ask her to repeat, but the status remains the same-I am a licensed driver! In that instant all the stress and anxiety melt away, and a "thank you God" is all I can whisper.

DIY Tripod!!!

2008-01-30T19:14:00.001-08:00

School

2008-01-21T16:04:00.000-08:00

Ahh... Last module... I am somewhat content. Now I have exams to look forward to on Friday... sigh... Well, hopefully once this semester is over I can try to reorganize priorities and stuff. I haven't been exercising at all lately, and I really need to find a third job.

I made this pretty sweet website design for my last assignment. We were supposed to submit our portfolio, but that seemed a bit boring-so I made a website for it. http://besttest.lefttwin.org
Tell me what you think of it.

Remember to pray for the Vandixhoorn family, as I'm sure they will be struggling for a while. If you didn't know-Dan Shuit who you may have seen at the Vroom's on Saturday... he's the brother-in-law of Mr. Vandixhoorn. That is: his sister is the now widow. He told me he and his family have been helping out, so pray for them to as they want to help out, but also need to manage their own jobs and stuff...

Well... I'm off for a walk after a week of sickly inactivity. ttyl

A Subtle Message

2008-01-10T18:24:00.000-08:00

This letter from BreakAwayMag is cool:

http://www.breakawaymag.com/HeyMike/A000000649.cfm

So, in case you're not understanding: this is my own limited male
way of giving compliments to all of my female friends. And if I
don't say it to you directly, yes I'm a chicken. But don't take
that the wrong way... argh... awkward... comprende?

After a lack of activity

2008-01-08T16:59:00.000-08:00

Well, I know... I haven't posted lately. Well, I've had a lack of inspiration. I mean it's not like I have anything to post about, but it's just hard to come up with the words to describe.

I guess I should go in order. Christmas was really nice. We weren't running around to do turkey dinner with every distant relative, and had a great time just spending time with our family. It was great to just sleep in and wake up to a day of reflection and thankfulness. While not the main focus of Christmas, I got the unexpected gift of $200 for guitar lessons, and 6 months driving insurance! That was a big surprise for me.

Even more awesome was New Year's eve. If you weren't there or don't know: a bunch of us piled on over to the DeVissers for tobaggoning and an evening together. Great food, good friends, good times. While I missed the fact that not everyone was there that would make it perfect, we had an awesome prayer time. We don't do it enough, and it was really cool to pray in that kind of environment. Made me really open to the struggles and feelings of others, and also how to express my own thankfulness. On one hand it's a really personal thing you share with God, but on the other hand praying like that let's others into your life.

I really think that prayer time like that should be encouraged more. I talked about it with a couple of our yp and apparently "we've" tried it before I joined YPs, and it didn't work too well. I think that something like this really needs to take place in a large group so that there's more people who will open up. It provides an opportunity for those people who have problems expressing their thoughts and feelings publicly to express themselves in an open and Godly way.

Today I tried snowboarding, and I have mixed feelings about it. I was able to experience about 2.2 seconds of going down the hill without falling, and it was cool. For some reason I just can't co-ordinate and end up going down. I think I'm pretty happy with the fact I tried it, and I'll definetly try it again, but it's not my piece of cake. There's just something about being able to just fly down the hill without having to do bindings or worry about falling off the lift, etc. But it definetly is pretty cool, and now I think I respect you boarders who killed your butts(and heads) learning how to board :)

So right now I think I'm gonna go do some reading and then straight to bed, cuz I have to go to work and finish a biology assignment. I despise biology very much. It's not very hard, but there's a lot of questions, and err... Come to think of it, I don't appreciate school as much as I should :p

Music and Bias(English Editorial)

2007-12-20T09:48:00.000-08:00

Music expresses many ideas, beliefs, and opinions. Many of these can be skewed or taken the wrong way, so how should a person really understand the music they're listening to? Many times we can read into what a writer is saying to the point that we miss the main message of what he/she is singing about. And yet there are other times when we don't even pay attention to what we are listening to, and miss the joy that it can bring us. All music is biased; all music is an expression of the moods, feelings, and beliefs of the writers. If a writer is feeling hopelessness or at a loss, he will express those moods and feelings in his music. If a person has a cause for hope or joy in their life, they will express it; and yet either of these moods among many could be expressed in any song. When we listen to a song what kind of feelings does it invoke? Is there something wrong with feeling the same feelings as the writer, and identifying with him?

Just as emotions are communicated through music, beliefs are as well. Listening to a song doesn't particularly mean that we agree with the belief being communicated, but by listening to it we can understand the belief. By listening to this music we understand the author better, and those people who do feel the same as him. It is fine to listen to music passively, but at other times we gain the most from it by hearing the message and mood of the song and thinking about what we can learn from it. Is what's being communicated something that should be embraced or avoided? If you take the time to recognize and consider the bias, mood, and message without over-analyzing a new world of communicating opens up to you.

Perspective

2007-12-14T20:20:00.000-08:00

Well, I've had a lot to think about the last couple days. My last post wasn't really on the happier side, and really the things I've been thinking about aren't all the brighter. The thing is that I think my perspective on things is changing a bit.

I've really been introspective lately, just kind of keeping to myself. Not the most healthy thing, and I've noticed it to. This book I read a couple weeks ago talked about personal prayer lives, and made me see how much of my prayer time I spend praying about myself. It's not necessarily a bad thing, but it's not the best way to pray either.

Been trying to make my prayers less about me, and more about others. My problems really pale in comparison to others. My problems seem really big, and each of us face those things that really are serious, but really I'm not called to pray selfishly. I have to admit that I haven't been improving much.

You know, I think we all see that we need to pray for others, and yet I don't think I ever really encountered it. I mean I know there's people out their suffering, but when it's somebody you know... somebody who affects the people around you... it's different.

And yeah, I'm not posting to say I've achieved some "higher understanding" this week or anything, but it's just really awesome when God takes your point of view and turns it right around. So my nondepressing "Song of the Day" today is About You by Zoegirl

I've been thinking lately
About you
When it hit me from nowhere
Out of the gray
Everything's been coming together
Now that I'm moved
Beyond myself
And wrapped my head around
Something else

Chorus:
It's not about me
It's gotta be about you (everyday)
And all I wanna see is
Who you're turning me into
I will not forget
That you said
You'd always lead me through
To who I wanna be
Making every part of me
About you

I've been spending so much time
Disconnected
I was searching for affection
Inside myself
But I finally turned away
From my reflection
Saw your world outside my door
And everything that I've been looking for

Chorus

So I lay down my pride
'Cause you laid down your life
And I'm giving love that's holding me by
And thinking to you
And you lead me through
And you always do

Chorus

Those Nights

2007-12-09T19:32:00.000-08:00

I remember when
We used to laugh
About nothing at all
It was better than going mad
From trying to solve all the problems we're going through
Forget 'em all
Cause on those nights we would stand and never fall
Together we faced it all
Remember when we'd

[Chorus:]
Stay up late and we'd talk all night
In a dark room lit by the tv light
Through all the hard times in my life
Those nights kept me alive

listen to the radio play all night
Didn't want to go home to another fight
Through all the hard times in my life
Those nights kept me alive

I remember when
We used to drive
Anywhere but here
As long as we'd forget our lives
We were so young and confused that we didn't know
To laugh or cry
Those nights were ours
They will live and never die
Together we'd stand forever
Remember when we'd

[Bridge:]
Those nights belong to us
There's nothing wrong with us

I remember when
We used to laugh
And now I wish those nights would last

__________

Yeah, life's complicated. Time's are changing, even worse-people are changing. I just wish we could go back to some of those care-free times. Sick of certain tensions that build, and wish things could go back to the way they were. I'm not talking about any one individual, but yeah...

Awesome songs that get me through the week:
Comatose-Skillet
Breathe Into Me-Red
Can't Go On-Group 1 Crew
Forgive Me-Group 1 Crew
Those Nights-Skillet
The Last Night-Skillet

I love the way rock songs give that release. You know what I mean? Just this strain that builds up that can't get out, and it's soo awesome to be able to listen to these powerful songs that are Christ centered and give that rush. For every time there's a season, and lately I've needed these songs that express an anger and outrage at the way things are, and look to the way they should be.

Wikipedia Lovers

2007-12-03T08:17:00.000-08:00

Yeah I don't know about you, but I am like a super wiki user(not an addict though). I use it for a lot of my research, and I help my siblings with research by using it to. Well, I am writing a note of warning to anyone else who uses Wikipedia.

There is pornography on wikipedia. Now I'm not saying to go and boycott Wikipedia, because it is one of my favorite sites and has so much information it's not even funny. I do a lot of theological research on it as well, yet we need to be careful of the dangers that are there.

Today, I was looking up some information on drone honey bees for my sister. Well, do you know how many different terms that will come up with especially if you are looking for any information on mating? Now for some people this is a no-brainer, and yet I think everybody needs a reminder to be careful. I'll put it as simply as I can: there are depictions, descriptions, sketches, and diagrams that the main-stream considers "educational", but in reality these are pornographic.

Now, porn can be found anywhere if you look for it, but Wikipedia is a site that is normally not black-listed but has pages and pages of content that could be dangerous.

Tips to avoid problems:
-Use discretion, if something looks curious-it probably is.
-Use proper search terms(don't include words that could have double meanings).
-Use the library(yeah it's old-fashioned, but librarians can often help you find
information within minutes; AND make sure it's age-appropriate)
-Look for alternatives. If you do find a good page on Wikipedia, look at the sources.
Often these sources can be just as helpful.
-Guard your heart; if there is something questionable-don't use it. Chances are:
-There will be something worse.
-Bad content can be well hidden.

I haven't searched this site extensively, but it's goals seem to be to keep the site free of foul language, and sexual topics. http://www.conservapedia.com/Main_Page

If you have any alternatives please post them!

How important is communication?

2007-11-29T20:08:00.000-08:00

Thinking(yeah, I have these long stretches where it doesn't happen and then boom it all comes at once :)... Each of us live our individual lives, and the sad thing is we become content with it. Maybe sometimes we get this twisted view into our heads that the way things are is the way they were meant to be so let's just be content about it. But is it really that way?

I'm thinking mainly about our personal interactions throughout the day. Here's where I make good on the "promise" I made that I would put personal stuff up here. I find that from the moment I wake up to the moment my head hits the pillow at night: my interactions with people is quite limited. You know this could be related to the fact that I'm homeschooled, but I think maybe this is something all kinds of people may encounter.

We do our thing and think we're interfering in the lives of others if we interrupt them or something. I mean we may not say it out loud, "Um... I'm just going to pass you by and not say anything, because I'm afraid you won't respond, or that I'll be interfering in your life", but(personally, maybe I'm just a freak of nature) I sometimes think it. Are we too content with living our own lives? Do we truly care about other people?

If we truly care about someone, we should be able to show it, especially through verbal communication. Now, for some of us that interaction can be very limited throughout the week, which means that when we do see people we should be all the more ready and willing to participate in communication with other individuals. It just drives me crazy, and makes me mad at myself when I look someone in the eye and pass by them without saying a word, and know they feel the awkwardness just as bad.

There's circumstances of course, but I think maybe we come up with excuses when what we really should be doing is caring about another person enough to bring up meaningful conversation-which is more than just talking about the weather.

So, yeah, on one hand this post is mostly self-reflection; I just needed to write out my thoughts you know? It's something I need to work at: making opportunities to encourage my bros and siss in Christ, and be able to communicate more than a "How's it goin", "What's up?", "Cold day today eh?".

What I...

2007-11-27T18:16:00.001-08:00

Should be doing: school or work on boss's website.
Am doing: writing this.
Will do next: watch House on tv.

Best part of this day: got a school extension I didn't think I'd get.
Who contacted me last: Laina sent me a notification on FB.
Who I talked to on the phone last: Ben.

What I wish would happen: Some people email me maybe.
What I'm doing tomorrow: swimming, going to work, and doing school.

What I'm listening to: Life 100.3
What book I'm reading lately: Case for a Creator, and before that the Ishbane Conspiracy.

Um... Yeah... so I know a couple ppl are coming on here, but I hope there's more. Thanks ya'll for commenting so far!

Suggested Coping Methods?

2007-11-23T10:13:00.000-08:00

Yeah, so I know I make a really big deal out of getting my license, but I am really excited! Problem is: I don't think I'll pass it. Any coping methods if I don't get it???

Hi

2007-11-21T18:50:00.000-08:00

So, I don't know if anyones reading this or not. So how's everybody's lives? Looking forward to the snow? I have mixed feelings... Although I am looking forward to trying out boarding...

Ok, so "serious" question? Do you truly really not like it when I photoshop a picture of you? Or innerly get a laugh out of it? I mean seriously.

Lacking Human Contact

2007-11-20T20:00:00.001-08:00

Yeah, I'm bummed that there was no soccer. And it's not because it's soccer, but homeschool
group... er... not homeschool group, but seeing people is the highlight of my week.

I was at the library tonight... working... I just figured out my schedule when our Bible studies
were moved arbitrarily to my scheduled night. Vundaful... So now the last couple weeks I've
had to rush around struggling to switch with somebody...

I could really use an email... I'm not even sure who checks their email anymore, otherwise I
would send messages myself.

Well, hope everyone is having a good week; and if anyone from HSG happens to see this before
Thursday, I will see you then!

My Composition

2007-11-20T18:50:00.000-08:00

Yeah, I found this program that let's you put in the chords you want and than add instruments. It's pretty cool. The first song I did was put in Dm Bb C F for "My Desire" and then remixed it.

Today I made my own song... Here it is... What do you think?

Download This File

My Desire

2007-11-19T13:33:00.001-08:00

The song by Wilfred Bout... The timing is off, but that is because the program I used only has 4/4 timing.

Download This File

How do I hate thee? Let me show thy ways...

2007-11-16T18:42:00.000-08:00

Ok, so for English we had to write a parody of a popular poem by Elizabeth Browning. Now, please note that we specifically had to make it "How do I hate thee?" otherwise I wouldn't have picked such a topic. Now, part way through I realized that the only person I could hate would be the devil. So, in an uncheesy way please read this as thinking about the devil.

The Original:
"How do I love thee? Let me count the ways."-Elizabeth Browning
I love thee to the depth and breadth and height
My soul can reach, when feeling out of sight
For the ends of Being and ideal Grace.
I love thee to the level of everyday's
Most quiet need, by sun and candle-light.
I love thee freely, as men strive for Right;
I love thee purely, as they turn from Praise.
I love thee with a passion put to use
In my old griefs, and with my childhood's faith.
I love thee with a love I seemed to lose
With my lost saints, --- I love thee with the breath,
Smiles, tears, of all my life! --- and, if God choose,
I shall but love thee better after death.

My Parody
"How do I hate thee? Let me show thy ways..."-Aaron Best
How do I hate thee? Let me show thy ways.
I hate thee in a way that is so right
Thy bad mouth can breach good standards with might
O to end thy being and in great haste
I hate thee to a level I can't say
Thy hurtful seed, is horrid to my sight.
I hate thee nearly, for your aren't in Light.
I hate sincerely, for you do not Praise.
I hate thee with a passion I won't lose
Thou art a thief, and in knowing I saith
I hate thee for my own vices you use
With your lost saints, --- I condemn thee to death.
Wiles, fears, and all thy strife ---for as God choose,
Thou shall burn as fetter e'er thy last breath

Classical Arminianism

2007-11-11T19:37:00.000-08:00

Yeah, a theological post. Now, I'm not sure how to approach this as I don't want to start a debate/argument, but would rather share something our catechism class was discussing and learning about. It's the differences between the Remonstrants and modern day Arminianism.

We all know the Canons of Dort, and how hard they can be on Arminians. They show inconsistencies in thinking, and point out very valid and Biblical reasons why we as Reformed people believe the way we do. I just think that maybe we don't really think about the context in which the Canons were written.

At the time of the writing of the Canons, there were some really crazy beliefs and thoughts floating around the theological communities. I don't think I need to quote any since they can mostly all be seen in the Rejection Paragraphs. These Canons were written, yes, as a declaration of faith, but probably more so as a counteract to the thinking of the day.

What we need to think about is the fact that we are living hundreds of years down the road from those times. The Remonstrants aren't so pronounced, and modern day Arminians are quite far off from what the Remonstrants believed. What an Arminian church may claim as their declaration of faith, may not be quite what the PEOPLE of that church believe in heart and soul.

There needs to be a realization of the difference. So just as we make a distinction between the "Catholic" church and the "Roman" church, we need to define our terms. After our discussion today, our Pastor chose the words "classical Arminians" in his sermon to describe the teachings of a truly stringent Arminian church. He did this to point out that the general "Arminian" church believe differently than what their creed might say they do.

We need to be aware and careful of a tendency to "be proudful of our humility". We know that according to the Reformed belief, the Reformed Christian "has more" to be thankful for and humble about. Sometimes this can translate(though unintentionally) to a personal pride in "being more humble than those proudful Arminians". We need to recognize they are our brothers and sisters in Christ, and probably share many beliefs at heart that we do.

Now, no debate. Sure, post your comment, but try not to be confrontational...

Some Thoughts

2007-11-09T17:53:00.000-08:00

Iunno... I've had this on my mind for awhile. And it comes partly from that Voice of the Martyrs devotional I've had for two years. Once in a while I pick it up and read a story. They are amazing.

While it's a good book, I'm not writing about it. I just mention it, because
it has numerous stories in there of people who gave up the lives of their loved
ones for the Word. I've just been thinking. I would give my life for the Gospel and all those I care about in a second-no second thoughts. If I was told: "Recant, or he/she dies." What would my response be?

There's been a shift in the media. On the good'ol cowboy and star trek tv shows and movies-the heroes were always those who put themselves in danger or died for those they loved. Under pain of torture they persevered, and never gave up the secret code or combination for the lock.

Now, it's completely different. Take a look at Spiderman or Batman and you see that the villains don't just go after the superhero-they go after those they care about. And these stories I've been reading about in real life are just as scary. Instead of threatening someone with a cattle prod, the bad guys put a noose around your sister's neck. Most of these people never give in, but could I do the same?

Without trying to sound metaphysical, you think maybe the devil got the picture? Maybe it finally occurred to him that true Christians won't break under the pressure of pain. Pain just isn't relevant-we, as Christians, learn and gain from it. So he's changed his tactics and goes after those we love. Has he found our weak spot?

Can you say with absolute certainty that if some Muslim takes you and one of your siblings hostage, and tells you to recant or that sibling dies-would you have the strength to stand? Would it even be right to sacrifice the life of a loved one-God understands right?

In less dramatic ways I think it's happening all the time. Sometimes we're on good terms with ourselves-thinking we know what we believe and why we believe it. Then we see somebody we know and/or love struggling with something terrible, and it causes us to think again. It's the indirect assaults that are the hardest to deal with.

In war, it's not the full on frontal assaults that are the most deadly-they can be foreseen and prepared for. It's the sneaky blindsiding to our allies and friends which cause the most damage.

"I'm Not Alright"-Sanctus Real

2007-11-05T20:00:00.000-08:00

Song I totally love... I know I've been posting songs and stuff lately, but you know-music helps get me through the day.

"If weakness is a wound that no one wants to speak of,
Then cool is just how far we have to fall
I am not immune-I only wanna be loved
But I feel safe behind the firewall
Can I lose my need to impress?
If you want the truth, I need to confess

I'm not alright
I'm broken inside, broken inside
And all I go through
It leads me to you, it leads me to you

Burn away the pride, bring me to my weakness
Until everything I hide behind is gone
and when I'm open wide with nothing left to cling to
only you are there to lead me on
Because honestly, I'm not that strong

I'm not alright - I'm broken inside, broken inside
and all i go through - it leads me to you, it leads me to you

(and now i'm moved, and now i'm moved, and now i'm moved)closer to you
(and now i'm moved, and now i'm moved, and now i'm moved)closer to you
(and now i'm moved, and now i'm moved, and now i'm moved)closer to you
(and now i'm moved, and now i'm moved, and now i'm moved)

I'm not alright - I'm broken inside, broken inside
I'm broken inside, broken inside
and all I go through leads me to you, leads me to you

I'm not alright - I'm not alright - I'm not alright
Thats why I need you"

So I noticed somebody said they need an incentive to blog again... Well to tell the truth, it's totally personal. I mean blogging used to be amazing. Like today me and Ben were going through that post that Mel wrote way back in 2006! The one about music, and it's soo cool to see everyone's opinions, and look back at my own.

Blogs offer a way for us to look back at what we used to think, feel, and(unfortunately in some cases) look like. I personally don't keep a journal-I know I should-but I don't. Just the last couple days getting back into reading the blogs, and going over what I and others wrote in the past few years... it's just really cool to see the problems we had, and look now and see that God is soo good.

Nothing really specific that I'm talking about, but like for myself I looked back at my posts from my dad's heart attack and how out of control I felt. Now I can look back, and have more peace right now through looking at God's provision.

That's not my only reason for blogging, but I have to say that it's a pretty awesome one...

Horrible Driving Lesson

2007-11-05T13:41:00.000-08:00

Yeah, so Ben was over today suddenly which made me forget that I had a driving lesson. So 15 minutes after my lesson starts, my instructor phones and says she's in my driveway... bad way to start a lesson.

So, unfortunately I'm a defensive driver. I know aggressive is the way to go, but I'd rather be safe than sorry. I just drive defensively... I wait to see what's going on before I move. Well, since my teacher cannot read my thoughts and was getting ticked at my commentary-she didn't know that.

Suffice to say her voice rose in volume telling me to go faster, be decisive, etc... I didn't drive well, but that's cuz I was so internally mad I was ready to blow. Anyway, that lesson ended. I know I'm only a driving student, and she's an instructor-but, seriously, I do know how to drive: it's her comments that are freakin me out and making me nervous.

So... my day... hope everybody else has had a better one...

It wasn't all bad... me and Ben... cough... cough... accomplished something mischievous today-so we're happy :)

Blogging League

2007-11-03T20:40:00.000-07:00

So I created a very VERY simple script so that we can all synchronize our active blogs.

What you do:
Go to Blogger>Template>Page Elements>Add a Page Element

Pick HTML/Javascript and set a title. Maybe something like "Blogging League".
Next, put the following code into the "Content" box.

And that's it! You're done! Just add the page element and you should see all those who are currently blogging!

What I'm Watching

2007-11-03T15:54:00.000-07:00

"Forgive Me"-Group1Crew

Lyrics:
Father, I’m going through some heavy things
It seems like this world ain’t getting any better
The more we try to get closer to You
The farther we run from Your throne

I’ve spent so many nights wonderin’ when will it end
When will the day come when happiness begins
I’m running the race but it seems too hard to win
I’m sick of mourning my stomach is throwing up in the morning

I’m calling for help and watching it melt away
My heart’s been put on display and put away
In many ways, many times I told myself it was ok
And anger was the price that was paid
While these faded dreams just screamed to bring them home

The burden was too heavy I kept running from the throne
I can’t take it any longer
I can taste my spirit hunger
God please help me get home

Chorus:
Lord though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death
I’m not scared cause You’re holding my breath
I only fear that I don’t have enough time left
To tell the world that there’s no time left, Lord please
Lord though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death
I’m not scared cause You’re holding my breath
I only fear that I don’t have enough time left
To tell the world that there’s no time left

I’ve come to terms that I’m burning both sides of the rope
And I’m hoping that self-control would kick in before I’m choking off
The sin that be destroying every fiber I got
I need the Lord in every way I’ll never make it I’m not
Going back to the way I was before Christ in my life
I couldn’t do it I would lose it there’s no point to the fight
And I’m writing this song, for the people who don’t belong
I pray away the pain you feel from all the things that went wrong
Inside a life that’s filled with anger and disappointment
Cause daddy treated you weaker than all of the other kids
It’s annoying and I feel for all of you who wanna give up
You feel stuck I feel the same way Lord help us stay up
You couldn’t pay me to abandon the idea of true hope
That I could make it through this life into a place where there’s no crying
I’m dying to find You with open arms when I go
Knowing You love me and You waiting to give rest to my soul

Lord I don't know what I'm struggling for
There’s go to be more
Than this life I know
But still I’m here fighting to never give up
I find strength in Your love
And You will see me through

What I'm Listening To

2007-11-03T15:48:00.000-07:00

"Romantic Love is Ergos Part 1"-James Macdonald

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Tis late, but...

2007-11-01T20:11:00.000-07:00

Well, after an awesome soccer game today I came home to do school... bleh... Biology can be cool, but not when you have 2 hours left to complete it and what begins to look like gibberish when you're falling over from sleepiness. So basicly I did what I could and gave up on the rest :) Pretty bad, but as long as I pass I'm happy.

So, I said I'd do something on Reformation Day. Well, I don't have much to say except for the fact that lots of people ask us what we do. It can be hard to explain sometimes, but I was kind of surprised by how many people actually knew who Luther and Calvin were. I had a harder time trying to think of the origins of Halloween. I heard something about being All-Saints day, but I always thought the occult made their holidays near the time of that as a mockery, but then I heard somewhere else that the Christians made the holiday near the occultic ones to deter from their celebrations. I'm not really sure what the case really was though...

So, for anyone who doesn't know-my dad and I visited Nobleton and had a marvelous potluck supper(one of my favorites being that wonderful meatloaf/ham/spinach roll that Miriam made :). After that we played quite the challenging game of Jeapardy which was pretty cool. I heard later that my church did the same thing that night, but that the questions were a little easier or something to that affect. Anyway, thanks for the invitation and had a great time!

So if anyone has some opinions on trick or treating, I'd love to hear them. Like: why exactly do we not trick or treat(aside from our age now)? Is it because of the whole demon/witch/ghost costumes and stuff? Is it just because it's secular? Is it because Reformation Day celebrations sounds like so much more fun? ;) Like is there a Biblical reason I shouldn't go trick or treating with some neighbors and be a witness by dressing up as Jean Cauvin(John Calvin) or Luther and ask for candy in German? lol

My Hope

2007-10-31T19:33:00.000-07:00

What do I hope this blog will be? I personally hope this will be a place for me to post my thoughts and reflections. My past blogs, as most of you know weren't maintained regularly. Life just get's in the way, and we don't have time.

I'm not really sure why I've decided to try to start up again. I guess I'm just feeling like I'm not getting enough communication with friends. I really want this blog to not be something public that everybody I know sees, but a place where I can get the opinions of people I respect and trust.

I personally feel it would be beneficial to me at least-to try to post something at least once a week. You know, like a Bible verse that really helped me out this week; or some experience I had this week.

So, if you have a couple minutes to go to this blog and see what I'm up to, and comment on something-that'd be great. If anyone else is interested in blogging again-I'll link you. I'll only be linking to people who actually plan on updating their blogs. Maybe I'll even make a page that people can link to so you can see which blogs have been updated.

Well, I think that's enough writing for tonight. Maybe I'll post something about Reformation Day tomorrow if I get a chance.

Once Again

2007-10-27T15:19:00.000-07:00

I find myself here again blogging. Tiring of Facebook and all it's applications and neat features. I miss the good old blogging where I could write for pages and pages and know that at least somebody was reading it.

I miss the times when blogs were productive and beneficial to all who read. Why did we stop the personal reflection and conversation with our peers? Why are we settling for random comments on photos and pokes?

Yes, these are fun, but are they rewarding? I know it can be so convenient to just log-in and do something quick... I'm finding that those little quick things don't accomplish very much. Does anybody else miss the genuineness of writing something worthwhile?

Don't get me wrong, I know we're all busy. In past years, I never could really understand what it meant to not have time to go checking blogs and things. Now that I have a couple jobs I begin to see what it means to have a job and be soo busy. Yeah, it's cool to be able to let someone know you're thinking about hem with a quick "hug" or something. I just think that possibly in the 10 minutes it takes to load SuperPoke pages or wall posts, we could be writing something meaningful for all to see.

I don't know... On one hand I even think this suggestion itself is unreasonable, but what are your thoughts?