GODWOTTERY::

...photos as an infant and toddler...

2010-02-24T21:53:00.001-05:00

...photos from the family tree...

2010-02-22T21:48:00.000-05:00

This is my father, Hiram Matthews, and his sister Meta. I don't know what year this was.

This is my father Hiram, in 1939, as a young man.

grampa's stories::3

2010-02-21T21:28:00.026-05:00

...early memories...

My earliest memories back in Arkansas are of the winter. I don’t know really how old I was when we came back from California or what the time of year was.

This memory may have been shortly after my 3rd birthday, or it may have been after my 4th. Either way, I remember that it was cold and windy. I suppose that I was, what should I say... bored, discontent, or maybe I just needed to go outside for a while. Butch, being either a newborn (if I was 3) or about a year and a half (if I was 4), was not enough of a playmate to occupy me. (Butch was born in August 1952.)

Anyway, I wanted play outside.

I think Mother tried to dissuade me, but I was persistent. So, she bundled me up with a sweater, coat, pants, hat and gloves - and told me in no uncertain terms that I must stay on the south side of the house. Even though the house was small and built up on blocks, it still sheltered quite a bit from the north with and the sun shone on the south wall and it was quite pleasant for me there for a while.

I don’t remember what I may have played with that day, perhaps I just ran and jumped around. It was good to be outside!

Our house was situated facing the west with the back door to the east. The gravel road in front ran north and south. Granddaddy Matthews lived just less than 1/4 of a mile south of us. Just after his house, the road made a T-shaped intersection and then went east and west.

Around the corner on the left, or the east, and on the south side of the road lived one of Daddy’s sisters, Sally. Sally had married Vernon Martin, so to me they were Uncle Vernon and Aunt Sally. She was older than Daddy and her children were several years older than me.
<< On the left is Uncle Vernon, Aunt Sally is sitting on the porch in the middle, and Daddy (Hiram Matthews is on the right.

The oldest was Ronald. Cousin Ronald was married with children of his own, but as I remember, he developed a brain tumor and died - I think before I was 10 years old.

Ronald’s younger brother was Don, and he was about a senior in high school. The youngest was Brenda. I think she was also in high school when i was still in elementary school.

They had a TV before we did, and sometimes I would be there on Saturday morning. Brenda would be watching “American Bandstand”. It was a program with bands playing and people dancing, and at 5 or 6 years old, I thought all that was very strange. Brenda was always watching with great interest, sometimes while ironing her “poodle skirt” and getting ready for her date - whatever that was.

A poodle skirt was a big full swingy skirt made of smooth fabric that had the likeness of a poodle dog in a contrasting color appliqued on the front. These were very popular with the girls at that time.

grampa's stories::2

2010-02-19T19:33:00.026-05:00

...houses & water pumps...

Maybe Daddy decided that his fortune was not out west, because after Butch was born we all moved back to the farm in Arkansas. I’m still confused as to whether my Granddaddy was out in California with us.

Anyway, two new houses were built on the Arkansas farm. Just simple four-room homes with a front room, kitchen and two bedrooms. There was no running water.

Our outhouse was out back by the tractor shed. Grandaddy’s outhouse was out back, about 60 or 70 yards into the bean field.

>>>This is Butch, at our old pump.>>>

Our water pump was in the back yard, probably no more than 20 feet from the back porch.

Grandaddy’s, however, was maybe 150 yards down by the cattle lot, and was used to pump water into a large dugout log for the horses, mules and sometimes a lone milk-cow.

It isn’t clear to me whether or not this was the primary water source for the old house that had been blown away in the tornado a few years earlier.

At that time, good water could be gotten by driving a pump point and some joints of pipe into the ground only 12 to 20 feet deep. The point was a special length of pipe that had been made with holes covered by fine screens that let the water through but kept out sand and dirt. It could be 3, 4 or 5 feet long with something like 4-foot joints of solid-wall pipe attached to it. These could be driven into the ground by pounding on the top end with a sledge-hammer and adding on extra joints as needed.

When the point was deep enough a hand pump, or pitcher-pump as it was called, was screwed onto the top joint and then water was available. If the leathers in the pump valves were good, the pump would stay primed between uses.

If the bottom leather was bad, the pump would need to be primed, by pouring some water into the pitcher before it would pull the water up the pipe and out the pitcher into your bucket.

grampa's stories::1

2010-02-18T10:17:00.008-05:00

...1949::the beginning...

They said that I was born in my grandaddy’s house. The same house, I suppose, where my daddy lived until he married my mother, and then a little more. That’s the house that blew away in a tornado a year or two later.

I don’t remember it.

>>>This is me, at age 6 months, in April 1950.>>>

After the tornado, all that was left was a chicken house and a pitcher pump and a few odd boards and planks that were used later to build a chicken brooder house or maybe as fencing.

They were farmers, my daddy and grandaddy. The land was owned by Miss Annie Sue MacDonald. She lived north of McCrory, toward Newport. I can’t recall the name of her little community. I’m sure it’ll come to me later!

Grandaddy rented the place, 80 acres I think, giving 25% of what the crops made as his payment. He grew cotton, soybeans and of course corn for the horse and mule feed.

They said also that I was born in late October of 1949. And that’s what my birth certificate says too, so I guess they were right. They said that I was born early and kind of puny. They had to take me to a hospital somewhere and put me in an incubator for a while. But I don’t remember any of that either.

My first recollections are very faint and brief. Daddy and Mother and me had moved from Arkansas to California. Gonna make our fortunes in the Golden State like so many Southerners before us. Two of my mother’s sisters and their families had already moved out there.

But we didn’t stay long - only about a year or so. Just long enough to find my little brother, Butch, out there. His real name is Harland Hiram. That second name is after Daddy. But I really don’t remember Butch in California.

<<<This is Butch, 2 weeks old.<<<

All that I can recall about California is playing in the sand outside someone’s house and getting bit by big ants. That, and Daddy drove a Jeep around where he worked. It had a small box extension on it and I got to ride in it, at least one time.

I learned years later that all this happened close to the city of Indio in Southern California.

Haitians Helping Haitians

2010-01-22T09:22:00.001-05:00

A Seventh-day Adventist church makes FOX news because they aren't waiting for outside help before organizing themselves and helping others.

CLICK HERE to watch the video:Haitians Helping Haitians

© CLUTCH, 2010 unless otherwise sourced.
Use allowed by express written permission only.
Tweets, trackbacks, and link sharing encouraged.

get your pants off the ground!

2010-01-14T12:23:00.002-05:00

silent monks...

2010-01-12T16:52:00.003-05:00

the damage of goodness...

2010-01-03T21:01:00.000-05:00

I've often watched principled people drive others away because of their difficult attitudes. Sometimes those with the highest standards are downright unlikable. They make everyone despise what they stand for, because they are so boring or so pompous or so completely out of touch.

I believe that the cause of good is most often harmed by well-intentioned people who express good badly. Don't agree? What about the Crusades? The Spanish Inquisition? The cheese Nazis at church potluck?

It doesn't matter how great your health message if people cringe when you walk their way.

It doesn't matter if you have news about Sabbath rest if people think you are mean, or arrogant, or untrustworthy, or a gossip.

I may not always succeed, but I want to always be known as a person of rigid principle who is still lovable. Not one who discredits my principles by my attitude.

And that doesn't mean it's okay to abandon my standards. Just keep them kindly.

Despite arguments to the contrary, I believe that having good principles with a bad attitude is NOT better than having none. I've often heard excuses made for bad behavior. "At least they're doing the right thing...."

But doing good while driving others away isn't excusable! In fact, it's reprehensible. It makes good things, good principles, hateful to onlookers.

That's worse than having no principles at all!

(Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone.)

overcoming the onslaughts of 2009

2010-01-03T17:13:00.002-05:00

Its a new year.

2009 was a doozie.

And so, to jumpstart the recuperation process - we've decided to take a couple of weeks of detox. Fresh fruit, fruit juices, smoothies, raw veggies, and a bit of beans and peanut butter for protein - that's the menu.

Today started off with a whole bowlful of dark red cherries. Mmm yummy! And for lunch, black beans with a huge spinach and romaine salad and lemon juice and salt for dressing.

And tomorrow, I plan an inaugural trip to the gym in our new neighborhood.

third culture kid...

2010-01-03T17:02:00.003-05:00

My dear friend Karen Glassford posted this note on Facebook and I had to repost it here, with my own comments (in italics).

I'm a third culture kid. Never fully at home, never completely settled, always itching to see new places and meet new people.

--------------------
Excerpts from:
"Well-Traveled, Multilingual and Clueless –Third Culture Kids Unpacked."
CultureMutt.com:

I can go from zero to awkward, mumbling mess in no time when Western pop culture predating the 90s is brought up in conversation. I have no clue what to say because a lot of the time, I have never heard of the actor/singer/quirky 80s celebrity of ambiguous sexuality being discussed. It is painful. I sound American.... But I grew up next to sugar cane fields and coffee plantations in the Philippines and I have never seen a single episode of Miami Vice.

1) [We]... are stumped if some zealous patriot asks us to recite the words to our own national anthems. (But we can sing the national anthem or anthems of where we grew up. However, both the USA and our other countries' national anthems can bring tears to our eyes on Independance Day, or after some national disaster. - Karen's comment)

2) Whether or not we’ve ever stepped foot on American soil, our accents are often, to one degree or another, American.

3) We are flakes when it came to growing roots anywhere. I’ve kept in touch with a number of my fellow TCKs and a lot of them have kept moving, never staying in the same place for more than a few years.

4) We are used to sharing a lot very quickly because growing up we knew that we didn’t have much time to make friends before we had to leave again. But there is a flipside to this. Steph Yiu on denizen-mag.com puts it well: “once you get to know us, you might find that we keep you at bay. We’re just so used to leaving (or being left by) people who are close to us that sometimes we don’t want to form very deep relationships, for fear of losing them.”

5) We were raised watching cultures clash on a daily basis so we are OK with grey areas. We don’t expect life to be black and white. (We have seen situational ethics in progress not just theory, many times. By the same token, we are usually deeply committed to our belief system because it has held us together through the changes in our lives. - Karen's comment)

--------
"You Know You're a TCK When" from beginningwithi.com

You can't answer the question: "Where are you from?" (I usually give a long pause and "uhhhh" right here.)
You flew before you could walk.
You have a passport, but no driver's license. (That was me from age 10 to 18!)
You speak with authority on the quality of airline travel. (And with venom, when the occasion calls for it.)
You don't know where home is. (Home? What home?)
You sort your friends by continent. (Definitely.)
Someone brings up the name of a team, and you get the sport wrong. (Embarrassing but true!)
You feel that multiple passports would be appropriate.
Rain on a tile patio - or a corrugated metal roof - is one of the most wonderful sounds in the world. (Oh yeah!!)
Your wardrobe can only handle two seasons: wet and dry.
You automatically take off your shoes as soon as you get home. (And I'll teach my kids to, too!)
Your dorm room/apartment/living room looks a little like a museum with all the "exotic" things you have around.
You won't eat Uncle Ben's [or the cafeteria's] rice because it doesn't stick together. [And you can discuss at length about the pro's and con's of various rice varieties.]
You know the geography of the rest of the world, but you don't know the geography of your own country.

--------
And these are Karen's niece's comments:

You have no problem weaving in and out of tiny spaces in crowds.

You experience more culture shock when returning "home" than when going to another country.

You realize the difference between 110 and 220 volts, and know to check all appliances before you plug them in.

You know how to pack so the suitcase is 49.98 pounds.

We can usually mimick accents from several places in the world and fool most people with their authenticity. Our "second langauge" (or is it our first?) is spoken without an accent, thoroughly confusing those around us because they see a face which doesn't match the accent.

Dealing with typhoons, scary bugs, less-than reliable vehicles, and strange ethnic foods don't phase you. If someone asks you to identify a famous American actor from a famous American movie, though, you're outta there.

-------

salute to a southern man...

2009-11-21T18:52:00.006-05:00

Last week it was Veteran's Day.

And I got to thinking how the last generation showed so much more outward evidence of patriotism than most of those who are my age. My mother told me that my uncle sent my dad an email last week, saying that while he'd often thanked soldiers on the street for their service to our country, he'd couldn't remember ever thanking my dad - his older brother. This year he expressed his thanks to my dad for his service in the Army, and to my mom for her support of him.

My dad is the kind of man who never fails to stand for the national anthem. He's the kind of man who feels a deep sense of loyalty for the flag, and respect for military uniform. I remember him scolding me once for not paying attention and putting my hand over my heart during the "Star Spangled Banner" - and it stands out in my mind as a youthful moment when I recognized that my father held the symbols of his country in high regard.

Then I heard this song on the radio a couple of days ago that seemed to personify my dad. Allan Jackson's "Smalltown Southern Man".

And, in tribute to my father, I wanted to share the lyrics here:

Born the [eldest] son of a farmer
And a small town Southern man
Like his daddy's daddy before him
Brought up workin' on the land
Fell in love with a small town woman
And they married up and settled down
Natural way of life if you're lucky
For a small town Southern man

First there came four pretty daughters
For this small town Southern man
Then a few years later came another
A boy, he wasn't planned
Seven people livin' all together
In a house built with his own hands
Little words with love and understandin'
From a small town Southern man

Chorus:
And he bowed his head to Jesus
And he stood for Uncle Sam
And he only loved one woman
He was always proud of what he had
He said his greatest contribution
Is the ones you leave behind
Raised on the ways and gentle kindness
Of a small town Southern man

Calloused hands tell the story
For this small town Southern man
He gave it all to keep it all together
And keep his family on his land
Like his daddy, years wore out his body
Made it hard just to walk and stand
You can break the back
But you can't break the spirit
Of a small town Southern man

how to tell if you're mom's favorite...

2009-11-17T13:05:00.005-05:00

You. Dude with the guitar. Yes, you...

2009-11-07T10:15:00.003-05:00

Put it down dude. Seriously, you know who you are. I went to camp with you. I went on a lot of church retreats with you. And some how, you even ended up living on the same floor as me freshman year of college.

I get it, you own an acoustic guitar. You put stickers of Africa and of bands I have never heard on the outside of your guitar case. You have an interesting guitar strap. You are moody and introspective and somehow when you combine that guitar with the three songs you know and a campfire, every girl on the planet wants to sit near you. Are you kidding me?

Back when I was in high school you knew the simple chords to Poison’s song, “Every rose has it’s thorn,” and Bon Jovi’s “Bed of Roses,” or maybe a few chords to some Nirvana, you know, their early stuff. But I have to believe the newer version of you has updated the material. What are you singing now, Coldplay’s “Yellow” or maybe Dashboard Confessional’s “Screaming Infidelities?” Maybe you are doing something by the Jonas Brothers now or Maroon 5? Or, God forbid, Jack Johnson. What, you’re actually singing U2’s song, “One?”

You are killing me.

I know what you are doing. You have brilliantly found a way to carry around the thing you are best at. (And I use the word “best” loosely.) I am very jealous. What if painting was the thing I was best at? Would it be OK if I just started carrying around a canvas and an easel and then when girls said, “Do you know how to paint?” I could casually reply, “Oh, this thing? I guess I forgot I had it with me.” Or maybe I was really good at pottery and could carry around a kiln and a wheel like in the movie Ghost. Because that’s what you do.

Or maybe, just maybe, I didn't get the memo when I was 5 that taking 15 years of violin lessons wasn't going to be the ticket out of dorkville. You can't casually walk around with a Suzuki violin under your chin.

It doesn't work. Chicks don't dig it.

You pretend that you just happened to have the guitar with you. Like the whole thing was just accidental. I know it’s not though. I know.

Your instrument isn’t even in tune but that doesn’t matter does it dude with the guitar? And what really gets me is that you’re going to play a song at church this weekend and people are going to tell you that you should be a worship leader. Hearing that is going to make you start wearing product in your hair and rocking a white belt and talking about being vegan.

Maybe you'll even break a string while you're playing. No worries. Not only are you musical (isn't that enough?) but you also have witty pre-planned comments about breaking a string. Even I laugh when you say them. Arrgh.

Do you know what happens when you break a violin string? Girls don't swoon. They leave. Mothers look away. Fathers pretend they don't know you.

And when I walk to class you’ll be sitting on the steps of the dorm with a girl that is way too pretty to talk to me, and you'll be softly cooing, “How great is our God.” And when she asks you, “Where did you learn to play like that?” You’ll respond by slowly tapping your chest and saying, “I just listen to my heart.”

You are my archenemy dude with the guitar at camp.

I am going to steal your guitar and replace it with those big hand bells and the white gloves the rest of us had to wear in High School.

Let’s see how easy it is to get girls to go on dates when all you have to play is a gigantic bell.

----

Posted in good humor :)

Original content by "Jon" at: http://stuffchristianslike.net/2008/07/332-that-dude-with-the-guitar-at-camp/
Lightly edited by Albert Handal.

clan tartans...

2009-10-19T18:58:00.004-04:00

After visiting the Scottish Highland Games, I did a little research on the tartans in our family's clans. Here's what I found:

Matheson Weathered

Matheson Hunting

Matheson Ancient

Matheson Ancient Hunting

MacDougall Ancient

clan history...

2009-10-18T18:47:00.003-04:00

Today we went to the Stone Mountain Highland Games 2009 - a festival of Scottish clans and culture.

I knew that there was Scottish history in my family's ancestry, but I though it was just on my mother's side. At the Games I discovered that we have roots in three different clans:

Clan MacDougall (my maternal grandmother's maiden name)

Clan Donald (my mother's maiden name was McGee, a derivative of MacKay - which is part of the Donald clan)

Clan Matheson (my dad's last name is Matthews, which is part of the Matheson clan)

We also have roots in the English families of Ford and Pickett on my dad's side, and Cherokee Indian on mom's side. But the bulk of family ancestry is Scottish.

It's a great feeling to have more defined ancestral roots.

forced vaccinations in state legislation...

2009-10-14T12:44:00.003-04:00

Some of you who read my blogs have laughed at the idea when I've suggested that there might be legislation being passed that would allow you or your kids to be forcefully vaccinated against your will.

For those who scoff, watch this:

introducing...."Grampa's Stories"

2009-10-09T09:54:00.003-04:00

Okay, I know I've been slack on blogging here. Forgive me!

So I'm starting a new little series on here based on my dad's memories of his childhood. He's been writing them down to preserve that generation of family history for the future generations. I've been typing them up, finding photos to illustrate them, and putting them in a little book.

But some of the stories are so good - I have to share them! So I'm going to post them here story by story for you to enjoy as well!

Looking forward to your comments! :)

just because I like it...

2009-09-14T10:17:00.001-04:00

where were you?

2009-09-11T09:45:00.002-04:00

It seems that every generation has a defining moment. A day in history that shaped the following decades.

It's that one momentous date when every person in the nation can remember exactly where they were and what they were doing.

December 7, 1941 - the day that Pearl Harbor was bombed

November 22, 1963 - the day that President Kennedy was assassinated in Dallas, TX

September 11, 2001 - the day that the Twin Towers exploded in the sky

I was a senior at my university, working in the office of the School of Business. I couldn't figure out why everyone else seemed to have disappeared. Finally I noticed a professor and several students clustered in one of the side rooms around a tiny television. I walked over to see what was so important that none of them were doing their work!

I was just in time to see the second tower collapse in ash and smoke. "Lazy morons," I grumped to myself. "Why are they in there watching an action movie while I'm out here being responsible!?"

Then I realized it wasn't a movie. I was stunned. Transfixed by the macabre scenes.

And the next day, the whole world had changed.

insights on the health care debate...

2009-09-11T09:44:00.000-04:00

prophetic writings...

2009-09-10T14:44:00.002-04:00

The latest issue (September 2009) of Adventist World magazine arrived today. Here's a letter from the magazine's last page that made me stop and think:

"Let me start with assuring everyone that I am completely convinced that Ellen White was a prophet and her writings were inspired by the Holy Spirit. However, I don't believe they should be called the "Spirit of Prophecy" for several reasons:

First, the Spirit of Prophecy is the Holy Spirit, not any writings, even those inspired by Him.

Second, this gives our critics reasons to claim Adventists think they have exclusive possession of His inspired writings.

Third, it would be more accurate to refer to them as prophetic messages of Spirit-inspired writings, identifying them accurately rather than calling them what they really are not."

CALVIN ACUFF
Morgantown, North Carolina

What do you think? Does he have a point? If you agree with his point, do you also agree with his supporting reasons? Why or why not?

I'm ruminating my own thoughts at the moment - although my first impression is that he has a good point. I'm just continuing to ponder the supporting concepts. And I'm interested to hear all your responses...

Comments, anyone?

it's all in the margins...

2009-09-10T11:02:00.003-04:00

Why do you write in the margins? Growing up, I was always annoyed by scribbled marginal notes of running commentary in the books in our house. My mom never found a margin she didn't want to fill. But lately, I find myself marking up the books I read too. Partly because I want to be able to quickly find those really good spots again, and partly because I'm hoping my husband will read it after me and take note of the statements I felt were profound (particularly in the ubiquitous parenting books now cluttering our bedroom).

And there's also that heretofore unexplored sense of connection with the author that comes from writing my impulsive responses in the little white edges. As though I'm having a conversation with the one who is responsible for triggering my thoughts.

MARGINALIA
Sometimes the notes are ferocious,
skirmishes against the author
raging along the borders of every page
in tiny black script.
If I could just get my hands on you,
Kierkegaard, or Conor Cruise O'Brien,
they seem to say,
I would bolt the door and beat some logic into your head.

Other comments are more offhand, dismissive -
"Nonsense." "Please!" "HA!!" -
that kind of thing.
I remember once looking up from my reading,
my thumb as a bookmark,
trying to imagine what the person must look like
why wrote "Don't be a ninny"
alongside a paragraph in The Life of Emily Dickinson.

Students are more modest
needing to leave only their splayed footprints
along the shore of the page.
One scrawls "Metaphor" next to a stanza of Eliot's.
Another notes the presence of "Irony"
fifty times outside the paragraphs of A Modest Proposal.

Or they are fans who cheer from the empty bleachers,
Hands cupped around their mouths.
"Absolutely," they shout
to Duns Scotus and James Baldwin.
"Yes." "Bull's-eye." "My man!"
Check marks, asterisks, and exclamation points
rain down along the sidelines.

And if you have managed to graduate from college
without ever having written "Man vs. Nature"
in a margin, perhaps now
is the time to take one step forward.

We have all seized the white perimeter as our own
and reached for a pen if only to show
we did not just laze in an armchair turning pages;
we pressed a thought into the wayside,
planted an impression along the verge.

Even Irish monks in their cold scriptoria
jotted along the borders of the Gospels
brief asides about the pains of copying,
a bird signing near their window,
or the sunlight that illuminated their page-
anonymous men catching a ride into the future
on a vessel more lasting than themselves.

And you have not read Joshua Reynolds,
they say, until you have read him
enwreathed with Blake's furious scribbling.

Yet the one I think of most often,
the one that dangles from me like a locket,
was written in the copy of Catcher in the Rye
I borrowed from the local library
one slow, hot summer.
I was just beginning high school then,
reading books on a davenport in my parents' living room,
and I cannot tell you
how vastly my loneliness was deepened,
how poignant and amplified the world before me seemed,
when I found on one page

A few greasy looking smears
and next to them, written in soft pencil-
by a beautiful girl, I could tell,
whom I would never meet-
"Pardon the egg salad stains, but I'm in love."

Original poem found HERE, by Billy Collins.

© Sarah K. Asaftei, 2009 unless otherwise sourced. Use allowed by express written permission only.

need water for your next mission trip/camping trip?

2009-09-08T16:34:00.000-04:00

since I'm on a roll with great videos this week....

2009-09-08T11:29:00.003-04:00

because you need to laugh today...

2009-09-07T11:57:00.000-04:00

the sad state of the citification of today's children...

2009-09-07T11:54:00.001-04:00

why one wife chooses to shop alone...

2009-08-30T19:49:00.000-04:00

A friend emailed this to me. I don't know in which paper it was originally published, and I couldn't find a reference to the story itself online. If you know where I can properly source it, please leave a comment and I'll add the source to the post.

In the meantime, enjoy! :)

the reasons we vote...

2009-08-28T13:58:00.004-04:00

This morning I was listening to talk radio on the way to the gym. The early morning show where we live is usually Michael Smerconish. This morning he was discussing the recent buzz about a memo circulating in Atlanta GA that calls voters to support a specific black candidate for city mayor (Lisa Borders) to prevent a white candidate from becoming mayor.

Read the Atlanta Journal Constitution's article about it here.

To her credit, candidate Lisa Borders has strongly denounced the memo, stating “I reject the analysis offered by Aaron Turpeau [the memo's alleged author]. He is absolutely wrong. I oppose anyone, or any race, who would distract us from what is important today.”

I've always avoided blogging my thoughts on racial tensions or tendencies in the past, largely because I really treasure my friends of all races - and I have a LOT of wonderful friends of various shades and ethnicities. I've never wanted to offend them, no matter how I feel about their often-freely-expressed sentiments on issues.

But this local and current issue has got me thinking. What would the public reaction be if someone dared to suggest that white voters turn out en masse to support a particular white candidate - not because of capability or experience, but simply because they are white, and for the express purpose of keeping a black or other non-white candidate out of the position in question? There would undoubtedly be outrage across the nation. As I believe there should be.

One caller on the show stated that he thinks we all just tend to vote tribally, for the person we feel the most connected with, and that connection is typically based on external characteristics.

That troubles me. You see, I'd like to think that in this country which was once founded on the premise that all people have a God-given right to think for themselves, we haven't completely lost the ability. Or maybe we have.

Yes, when we are electing public leaders, it seems all too often that we are simply choosing between greater and lesser forms of evil. That no government leader can get to the point of running for election without having already sold their souls.

But when we vote, doesn't the basis of our decision make a statement about what we find most valuable? If as a woman, I vote for a candidate because she is female, then I am saying with my vote that gender trumps everything else.

If I vote for the candidate whose skin color most closely matches my own - be it white or black or brown or some shade in between - without giving thorough consideration to their integrity, morality, ability, and experience then I am also making a statement. I am stating to the world that skin color is more important to me than qualification or honesty. I am telling my community that I am, in effect, a racist.

The basis on which we vote shows what we value most. And when we - no matter our race - vote primarily in allegiance to skin color or ethnicity, we prove that we have not progressed beyond the racial prejudice of decades past.

Voting is about getting the best person for the job. The most honest person. The one with the highest integrity and the greatest concern for the best good of the people in their jurisdiction. The person who will most strongly cling to the ideals of the constitution under which this country was founded.

I don't care what color or shade of skin the best candidate has. I don't care whether they are male or female. I want to know one basic thing: can you do the job, and do it with transparent integrity to the constitution of the country I love?

a parachute, a wedding, and Bergen-Belsen prison camp...

2009-08-28T10:15:00.003-04:00

THE WEDDING GOWN THAT MADE HISTORY

Lilly Friedman doesn't remember the last name of the woman who designed and sewed the wedding gown she wore when she walked down the aisle over 60 years ago. But the grandmother of seven does recall that when she first told her fiancé Ludwig that she had always dreamed of being married in a white gown, he realized he had his work cut out for him.

For the tall, lanky 21-year-old who had survived hunger, disease and torture this was a different kind of challenge. How was he ever going to find such a dress in the Bergen Belsen Displaced Person's camp where they felt grateful for the clothes on their backs?

Fate would intervene in the guise of a former German pilot who walked into the food distribution center where Ludwig worked, eager to make a trade for his worthless parachute. In exchange for two pounds of coffee beans and a couple of packs of cigarettes Lilly would have her wedding gown.

For two weeks Miriam the seamstress worked under the curious eyes of her fellow DPs, carefully fashioning the six parachute panels into a simple, long sleeved gown with a rolled collar and a fitted waist that tied in the back with a bow. When the dress was completed she sewed the leftover material into a matching shirt for the groom.

A white wedding gown may have seemed like a frivolous request in the surreal environment of the camps, but for Lilly the dress symbolized the innocent, normal life she and her family had once led before the world descended into madness. Lilly and her siblings were raised in a Torah observant home in the small town of Zarica, Czechoslovakia where her father was a melamed, respected and well liked by the young yeshiva students he taught in nearby Irsheva.

He and his two sons were marked for extermination immediately upon arriving at Auschwitz. For Lilly and her sisters it was only their first stop on their long journey of persecution, which included Plashof, Neustadt, Gross Rosen and finally Bergen Belsen.

Four hundred people marched 15 miles in the snow to the town of Celle on January 27, 1946 to attend Lilly and Ludwig's wedding. The town synagogue, damaged and desecrated, had been lovingly renovated by the DPs with the meager materials available to them. When a Sefer Torah arrived from England they converted an old kitchen cabinet into a makeshift Aron Kodesh.

"My sisters and I lost everything - our parents, our two brothers, our homes. The most important thing was to build a new home." Six months later, Lilly's sister Ilona wore the dress when she married Max Traeger. After that came Cousin Rosie. How many brides wore Lilly's dress? "I stopped counting after 17." With the camps experiencing the highest marriage rate in the world, Lilly's gown was in great demand.

In 1948 when President Harry Truman finally permitted the 100,000 Jews who had been languishing in DP camps since the end of the war to emigrate, the gown accompanied Lilly across the ocean to America. Unable to part with her dress, it lay at the bottom of her bedroom closet for the next 50 years, "not even good enough for a garage sale. I was happy when it found such a good home."

Home was the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington, D.C. When Lily's niece, a volunteer, told museum officials about her aunt's dress, they immediately recognized its historical significance and displayed the gown in a specially designed showcase, guaranteed to preserve it for 500 years.

But Lilly Friedman's dress had one more journey to make. Bergen Belsen, the museum, opened its doors on October 28, 2007. The German government invited Lilly and her sisters to be their guests for the grand opening. They initially declined, but finally traveled to Hanover the following year with their children, their grandchildren and extended families to view the extraordinary exhibit created for the wedding dress made from a parachute.

Lilly's family, who were all familiar with the stories about the wedding in Celle, were eager to visit the synagogue. They found the building had been completely renovated and modernized. But when they pulled aside the handsome curtain they were astounded to find that the Aron Kodesh, made from a kitchen cabinet, had remained untouched as a testament to the profound faith of the survivors. As Lilly stood on the bimah once again she beckoned to her granddaughter, Jackie, to stand beside her where she was once a kallah. "It was an emotional trip. We cried a lot."

Two weeks later, the woman who had once stood trembling before the selective eyes of the infamous Dr. Josef Mengele returned home and witnessed the marriage of her granddaughter.

The three Lax sisters - Lilly, Ilona and Eva, who together survived Auschwitz, a forced labor camp, a death march and Bergen Belsen - have remained close and today live within walking distance of each other in Brooklyn. As mere teenagers, they managed to outwit and outlive a monstrous killing machine, then went on to marry, have children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren and were ultimately honored by the country that had earmarked them for extinction.

As young brides, they had stood underneath the chuppah and recited the blessings that their ancestors had been saying for thousands of years. In doing so, they chose to honor the legacy of those who had perished by choosing life.

Helen Zegerman Schwimmer is the author of Like The Stars of The Heavens. To contact her please visit: helenschwimmer.com. You can also read the original story here.

In MEMORIAM - 63 YEARS LATER

It is now more than 60 years after the Second World War in Europe ended. Many have forgotten the memory of the six million Jews, 20 million Russians, 10 million Christians and 1,900 Catholic priests who were murdered, massacred, raped, burned, starved and humiliated while local people looked the other way!

Now, more than ever, as many claim the Holocaust to be a myth, it's imperative to make sure the world never forgets, because there are others who would like to do it again.

10 Things You Should Never Say During Church Worship...

2009-08-03T14:04:00.002-04:00

1) Say nothing your grandmother wouldn't want to hear. One day you'll stub your toe or drop the bread while your microphone is switched on. Prepare for those times by never using vulgarities—even in private.

2) "If you're visiting, please stand and introduce yourself." The surest way to repel newcomers is to embarrass them. There are better ways to welcome visitors.

3) "I hope you don't (cough, cough) catch my cold." If you're sick don't cough into the microphone, and keep your mitts off the communion bread. Better yet, stay home and get well.

4) Never call the printed order of service a "program." Concerts and ballgames use programs. Call it a worship folder or a bulletin.

5) "Let's give the (choir, Sunday school teachers, or kitchen workers) a round of applause." Say instead, "Let's thank God for them." Then everyone can applaud God. Worship, after all, is praising God. Plus, saying, "Thank God for you" is more meaningful to a volunteer than "good job."

6) When preaching, never tell a story about yourself unless it's intended to illustrate sin. Being the hero or martyr in your own story just doesn't work. Your congregation knows you too well in all likelihood for you to pull it off, anyway.

7) "Personally, I'm voting for..." Or, "As a Christian, you should vote for…" The worship service should focus on what God has done and is doing, not on your political position.

8) When leading prayers, don't say, "I just really want to praise you, Lord." You're praying on behalf of the community, so it's appropriate to say "we" not "I." Further, "just really want to" sounds canned.

9) When leading praise-style worship, don't say, "The next song we'd like to do is…" You'll sound like a nightclub singer. The noun "song" comes with a useful verb: "We'll sing our next song."

10) "Happy Birthday!" Personal stuff makes insiders feel fuzzy, but it also creates outsiders. Worship isn't "family" time; it's public time. Save birthday wishes for the fellowship hour.

(See the original post HERE.)

baby shower yesterday...

2009-07-20T08:45:00.001-04:00

Just one of the photos from our baby shower this weekend. See the rest here: http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=104630&id=586662664&l=a36f91a9e3.

CLUTCH button maker

2009-07-13T16:36:00.002-04:00

book review: "the last lecture"

2009-07-08T01:52:00.001-04:00

I recently was given a copy of "The Last Lecture" by Randy Pausch. It took me a while to pick it up, but once I did, I couldn't put it down.

There's something about knowing that you're going to die that puts every aspect of life into clarity.

Randy shares his life's insights with a poignancy that made me feel like I was sitting right beside him. His exuberance and joyfulness stood in stark contrast to the reality I felt as the reader, knowing that he was dying. And leaving behind a loving wife and three beautiful babies.

The memoir makes you want to laugh and cry and reassess your own life all at the same time. Its' brilliant, sensitive, and upbeat - even while dealing with weighty issues like cancer, death and loss.

Go read more about it here.

on the monumental incompetence of Bally Fitness...

2009-07-07T20:15:00.000-04:00

So last night we went to our health club - where until the last couple of months we showed up faithfully 5 or 6 times a week - only to find the parking lot empty.

Sign on door: This Bally-Towncenter Fitness Center is permanently closed. We regret the inconvenience.

Right. That's why you were still signing people up the day before you went out of business. That's why you didn't send out a letter to warn your customers, or notify anyone by email that their health club was no longer accessible.

Yup. Totally convinced.

So, since the nearest Bally's Club is 40 minutes away in Atlanta traffic, we promptly called the Bally corporate line to attempt a membership cancellation. I called three times, each time navigating their impossible automated answering service, finally reaching the "press O to get an agent" - only to be told that "the wait is more than 30 minutes for a representative, so we cannot take your call at this time. Click."

Whoopee.

Next, my husband called. After waiting on hold for about 45 minutes, he finally got an agent. Who slickly refused to help, wouldn't listen to his request, and was downright rude.

So he asked to speak with a manager. The manager got on the phone, didn't even let him say more than his name, and proceeded to speak over him without taking a breath for the next 5 minutes.

"Ma'am? Ma'am. Ma'am are you listening? Ma'am, I'm trying to tell you my situation."

"Blah blah blah blah blah blah, we can't help you, blah blah blah blah, you'll have to pay a huge fee, blah blah blah... Sir, are you there? Sir, I can't hear you? Sir?"

Click.

Nothing was wrong with the telephone.

He called back immediately, navigated the automated system again. "We're sorry, our offices are now closed. Please call back during regular business hours."

If this attitude is any indication of their general business management philosophy, no wonder they have branches closing down.

LA Fitness, here we come!

stand up and fly for free...

2009-07-06T11:38:00.002-04:00

If you never travel in Europe, the name Ryanair might not mean much. But for pennypinchers across the pond, Ryanair.com is the equivalent of flying even cheaper than Southwest. You can get tickets from .99 pence on up - plus the exorbitant travel taxes, of course.

But still, it's a LOT less than booking travel on the mainstream flights. Of course, you have to pack lightly - because baggage is charged per piece. But then, if you've noticed, big airlines like United and Delta now charge for baggage pieces too upon occasion - depending on how panicked the company is about the economy that week.

But Ryanair's latest brainstorm is to remove the back rows of seats in their planes, and have a "standing room only" section for flights less than an hour and a half long. Their pitch? "Willing to stand up? You can fly FREE!"

At maybe twice the baggage fee. Or maybe not, I'm just guessing. Read all about it right HERE.

There's just one question I can't get out of my head... If there's a whole pod of people standing up in the back, (or sitting on barstools, big difference) are all the seated passengers still required to wear seatbelts and keep their seatbacks in the "upright position" during takeoff and landing?

Do tell...

new threads coming...

2009-07-01T02:24:00.001-04:00

My challenge with blogging is that inspiration comes in spurts. Now, if creative genius were as regular as dirty dishes, this blog would have content several times a day. But you all know it doesn't work that way. At least now you know it...

On my mommyblog, I'm starting a series of book reviews on what I'm reading as we prepare to welcome Mr. Tristan Asaftei into the world.

Here? I've been blanking out. Until a good friend of mine sparked some creative thoughts this morning.

For several years, I've wanted to write a book about how my husband and I met and married. It's just seemed like such a daunting task that I've never gotten around to it. So what better way to get started than just by telling the story in a thread of blog posts!?!

So besides getting back on track with the Proverbs devotional, and jotting down my random observations of the world - keep an eye out for a new thread on romance.

photo shoot #3...

2009-06-30T14:18:00.002-04:00

And when a friend saw the last post's engagement shoot, she asked me to do another shoot for some of her family members. This one was extra special. Here's some of my faves:

photo shoot #2...

2009-06-30T13:18:00.000-04:00

My husband recently performed the wedding of Adam & Valerie. As a wedding gift, I did their engagement shoot. Here's a few of my favorites:

photo shoot #1...

2009-06-29T14:59:00.000-04:00

My dear friend Karmin came to visit for a week while my husband was traipsing the Brazilian Amazon Interior for a few weeks. We spent an evening in downtown Atlanta and here are a few of my favorite shots.

on "what to do next?"...

2009-06-29T13:00:00.003-04:00

As the work contract that has fueled my passion and sustained my stress quotas for the past 4 years begins winding to a close this autumn, I have found myself pondering what to do next.

Of course, having an infant and becoming a mother is the obvious part.

But other than that?

Certainly, while intentional Christian mothering is a time-consuming process, it won't mean that I can't still contribute and (hopefully) earn something extra.

I've toyed with more writing - things that I'd seek to publish for myself rather than under the umbrella of others. Things like a devotional book, or our love story. Maybe even a collection of my mommy blogs.

And I've considered getting more into photography. I love taking photos. I love watching people and things come alive in a frame.

So, while I'm still working and not yet free to wander, I've been exploring the creative possibilities. In the next few posts, I'll share some of my favorite shots from recent photo shoots. Leave a comment if you like them!

on disastrous dinners out...

2009-06-21T13:56:00.004-04:00

This week my good friend Karmin has been visiting. Last night she wanted to see some downtown Atlanta, so we made a reservation at the Sundial Restaurant. It rotates on the 72nd floor of the Westin Hotel.

It's a spendy kind of place, and we're not flush with cash these days, so we figured we'd go for the atmosphere and just get desserts. Mom and dad joined us to get out of the house and do something nice for Father's Day.

First, as girls can be, we were a little late getting started. Then I missed the exit. The traffic was in gridlock all through downtown because of some stupid college sorority event. We weren't allowed to turn into the block for the Westin Hotel parking because a cop was directing traffic and forbade us. So we kept driving about 6 blocks before we found a street allowing left turns so we could come back.

When we finally arrived at the hotel entry, we were only 5 minutes from losing the reservation, so mom and dad hurried inside. Outside, the valet told us that "parking was full, go find somewhere else." But he was nice enough to help me back up half a block against traffic on the one-way street, to a public parking garage. By the time I got there, that garage had a "LOT FULL" sign, too.

At this point, mom called me to say that the concierge in the hotel lobby was denying our reservation because of a private party. I drove back down the hill to pick them up and go elsewhere, but the nice valet offered to valet the car for us after all. I went inside to straighten out the reservations, but the General Manager had just let mom and dad go up to the restaurant after all.

When we got to the 72nd floor, they told us to wait another 20 minutes even though the place was full of empty tables. The main hostess was short-tempered and rude. When a waitress finally took us to a table, it wasn't cleaned yet. As we stood around waiting for the table to be bussed, I asked for the dessert menus, since that was all we wanted.

She looked at me askance and replied that there was a requirement of one entree per person minimum. Period. So I trotted back to the front desk, to sort it out again. I told them we had often come for desserts before. They replied huffily that nobody EVER gets to do that, and I said, "thank you, we'll just go home then!"

Just then another hostess offered to seat us upstairs to the bar instead, where we were free to order only dessert. We checked it out, and it was no-smoking and still fairly quiet, so we finally got a table there.

20 minutes later, no waiter had come to our table yet. Finally, the manager came over and apologetically stated that the hostess had made a mistake, and the bar had closed a half hour earlier. I explained our unpleasant experience so far. His name was Gheorghui, from Bulgaria - we chatted about Romania and Bulgaria and the Asaftei name. He was kind and said he'd help us out. (Gotta love the Eastern European connection!)

We ordered something to drink and desserts to share - of course they only had 3 measly choices at the bar instead of all the great desserts available downstairs in the restaurant, but oh well. The atmosphere was calm and relaxing and the city lights were beautiful.

When it was time to pay, Gheorghui was nowhere to be found. After waiting 15 minutes, we walked to the hostess desk to for the check. He intercepted us by the elevators and I asked him for the check. He just shook my hand and said, "You tell your husband hello for me, okay?"

After such an unpleasant experience with incredibly rude customer service, we were grateful for his kindness in not charging us. We felt that the evening had been redeemed - for exactly 30 seconds. Until the rude chick at the front desk informed us that our valet ticket had been lost...

I had to go down to the valet desk and complete a Lost Keys form. They finally found our car, brought it out and refused to charge us for the valet parking.

All in all, it was a near disastrous evening. But Karmin had fun and enjoyed herself, Dad enjoyed getting out and doing something different, Mom had fun getting all dressed up, and so I'm glad we went.

I don't think we'll be heading back to the Sundial any time soon, though!

on the essence of worship...

2009-06-10T16:45:00.003-04:00

I recently had a conversation with a friend who stated, "I don't know if I've ever really worshipped. I just don't feel it when people sing at church - ever."

I think we limit "worship" in its phrasal context. We put it in a box labeled "types of music" and limit our understanding of it to the corporate vocal and instrumental expression of song.

But isn't worship more than that? Worship is everything for God's glory. It's the whole life. Prayer, service, meditation, surrender, kindness, song - every aspect of our daily life as a God-follower is an act of worship.

The bowing down in a cathedral, or the singing of hymns at a church - those are only bits of the mosaic of worship.

While not every aspect of our lives may consist of sacred activity, every act and word makes a public statement about the quality of our commitment to God. Are we whole-hearted, or are we not?

And then - more than mere music or performance - when our actions and attitudes tend consistently to reflect the transformation God has made in us, I believe THAT is the essence of worship.

blackberries and lime...

2009-06-08T11:37:00.003-04:00

It's my new favorite munchie.

fresh plump blackberries
a little sugar sprinkled over
stir and let them sit a bit

squeeze two or three fresh limes
pour juice over berries
let sit a bit longer to soak it in

mmmm
YUMMY

Mexican Judo...

2009-06-05T10:35:00.000-04:00

Three tough guys were comparing their skills.

One guy said he was a third degree black belt in karate and explained his long training with several masters around the continent.

One guy said he had several years experience as a cage fighter -- street smarts from growing up in a tough neighborhood allowed him to achieve several titles.

The third guy says, "If we were in a fight, I could get both of you at once."

"How?" they ask.

"I know Mexican judo."

"What's Mexican judo?"

"Judo know if I got a gun, judo know if I got a knife, judo know if my entire family is waiting just around the corner ..."

because someone has to...

2009-06-05T09:47:00.004-04:00

I received these in my email this morning. Had to pass them on.

Some of you will love them.
Some of you will hate them.
Let the rumble begin...

baby names...

2009-06-04T17:54:00.000-04:00

a little hiatus...

2009-06-04T11:38:00.003-04:00

It's been a while since I've posted daily on this blog. Here's why:

lots of urgent projects and deadlines at work
a week out of town at camp meeting (and all non-work hours spent with real-life people! 'cause you know, I really don't get much of that anymore...)
continued nausea and illness from being pregnant, not to mention the exhaustion and growing sleep challenges

I'm going to have to take a little break for the next few weeks. So I'm doing the polite thing and letting you know. We plan on slowly transitioning into a new house, working around my work and Marius's mission trip to Brazil, through the month of June. We really do need a little extra space for when baby comes!

So I'll be back in a little while, hopefully with more interesting tidbits and observations collected during the hiatus.

a petition for camp meeting...

2009-06-02T10:44:00.003-04:00

We've gone to camp meeting ever since I was a little girl. It's been a fairly standard part of our summer routine. Tents, big franks, granola and lukewarm milk. Spending hours sitting around with friends we never see back home.

But camp meeting is more than just friends, food and conversation.

It's also about spiritual rejuvenation. It's about building a sense of community. It's about unveiling to your kids the big world of fellow believers out there. It's about acknowledging our place in the much bigger worldwide family of God's children.

(L>R:Brittany, me, Holly, Elizabeth, Denise
some of the friends that make camp meeting worth going)

And it's about reminding ourselves that we are not alone. There is a bigger crowd than just our local congregation or circle of friends. These people are all in the journey with us, learning to please God, fighting the same battles of purity, seeking to minister and share and teach, longing to grow families of children that are more than just hooligans in the next generation.

It's about community.

About people.

About relationships with God and man.

So I'm saddened when I face the facts and realize that camp meeting is a dying reality. Many states have shortened their traditional 10-day or full-week sessions to mere weekends. Others have completely canceled altogether.

People today have grown satisfied with fancy vacations and 7-day cruises. They settle for flash and pizazz and entertainment. And inside us the hole of longing for meaning and community and identity keeps growing bigger and bigger.

At one time, people took their vacations to be at camp meeting. It was a gathering place for friends and acquaintances of all ages, races, and family status. Everyone together. Meetings for every age.

And children forged lifelong connections with camp meeting friends. They learned at a young age that this group of people traveling the God-path is vast - even if their home church wasn't.

I'm afraid for the next generation. If there is no more camp meeting, we will have axed yet another avenue for community and connection. We'll be floating alone even more.

For the sake of my own kids and all the others their age - I desperately hope that the camp meeting tradition continues.

on the "easy" life of a pastor...

2009-05-18T13:23:00.003-04:00

This month's issue of Ministry Magazine (an international journal for pastors) featured an oustanding article by James Cress on visiting one's members.

While the article gave succinct advice on visitation (i.e.: "Remember, a pastoral visit need not be everlasting in order to be immortal."), it also brought up something that has troubled me often: how to deal with church members who think being a pastor is an excuse for laziness.

For those pastors who read this blog - have you ever had a member say something like: "Man, I wish I only had to go to work one day a week!"?

For those church members who read this blog - I hope you've never implied any such thing to your pastor. If you have, shame on you.

In one of our church districts, my husband was shaking hands as everyone exited the church one day, when he was accosted by one such member. "I'd really like to know what you do all week long!" the member started out. "'Cause I'm trying to decide if it's worth paying my tithes to this church. Are you working hard enough to deserve them?"

Never mind the fact that in our denomination (Seventh-day Adventist), all tithes go to the regional headquarters, where they are redistributed equally among all the pastors no matter the size of their congregation.

At first my poor hubby thought this guy was joking. Mid-breath, he realized it wasn't a joke. This man was serious. We didn't exactly know what to say... Any indignation would sound defensive. Any excuses would sound pathetic.

How do you tell someone like that just how much you work? Maybe an offer to follow you around for a week would be effective.

And yes, I'm quite positive that there are pastors out there who only truly give one or two work days a week. I've even known one or two like that. But they're not the majority. And when a pastor works as hard and as faithfully as my own husband does, it's tough not to get angry when people assume that the pastoral career is a cakewalk.

For the last three months, my honey has rarely gotten home before 9 PM. He wakes early for an hour and a half of reading and prayer time, and his lunches are almost always spent meeting with members and bonding over the meal. He keeps between 8 and 10 personal bible studies each week, and has several couples in weekly premarital counseling sessions.

That doesn't even begin to cover sermon preparation, planning for the summer mission trip to Brasil, organizing weekend evangelistic conferences, leading a weekly small group in our home, and all the emails and phone calls and staff meetings and board meetings and hospital visitations and other things that pop up each day.

Add to that having a wife who's been largely incapacitated by prenatal nausea and exhaustion for the past 4 months and needs him to shoulder most of the cooking and cleaning, and a mother who is battling a rare and aggressive form of leukemia and needs him to drive and hour and a half away to take her to the doctor every week - and this particular pastor's got his hands full.

No, this isn't quite our normal life routine. We made a pact when we got married to keep our family time sacred and to be sure we didn't allow ministry to crowd out our home life. But then sometimes you just gotta do what you gotta do. And try to keep reminding yourself that this frenetic pace isn't permanent, it's just the reality of now.

So you let the snarky comments of people who haven't got a clue roll off your back and splash onto something else. Because, if you're doing your pastoral job right, you haven't got the spare time to mull over Mr So-and-so's opinion of your daily schedule.

Baby, you're my hero.

on RE:FRAME::Marietta

2009-05-18T12:57:00.004-04:00

This weekend our church hosted the international RE:FRAME training event. It was the only RE:FRAME event scheduled on the east coast from now until 2011.

Most RE:FRAME events around the world are hosted by entire regions, but ours was a little different. Although people attended from as far away as Texas, this event was primarily for the members of our church - to help them catch a vision for reaching people in our local community.

Attended by about 40 people of all ages, RE:FRAME::Marietta offered an opportunity to learn more about today's society, how to share Jesus effectively, and ways to improve our church's outreach lifestyle.
RE:FRAME is all about relationships with people. This principle is even reflected in the decor and atmosphere of the training event itself. For instance, at the door attendees are greeted with a warm welcome at registration, and offered a variety of attractive materials:
Instead of meeting in a church or auditorium, everyone gathers intimately in small groups around beautifully decorated tables:
Instead of breaking to a fellowship hall or dining room to eat, everyone just eats right where they sit, with water and drinks available throughout all the sessions:
This coming Friday, we're getting back together to discuss what everyone learned and how they want to implement their ideas into the big picture vision.

We are convinced that this weekend will invigorate a desire for more outreach to bless our surrounding community, and we can't wait to see what's going to happen next!

to dance or graduate, that is the question...

2009-05-13T07:54:00.005-04:00

So, in case you haven't heard already, a teenage boy from Ohio (Tyler Frost) is suing his private Christian school for suspending him just in time to prevent his graduation.

Because he went to prom with his girlfriend.

At a public school.

Elsewhere.

Apparently, Tyler's school has all its students sign a contract that they will not participate in dancing while at school, among other things. Whether or not the contract is legally binding outside school property and class hours remains unclear.

So young Tyler went to his principal to ask permission to go to prom at his girlfriend's school. The principal replied along the lines of: Sure, but you might not get to graduate if you do.

Tyler went anyway.

Was it worth it?

In his own words: "Yes it was worth it. I mean, it's a once in a lifetime opportunity to go to prom. And looking back on it, I made the right decision."

You're kidding right?

What about the "once in a lifetime opportunity" of actually taking your senior finals and graduating from highschool so you can get into college - or get a job? Has anybody ever told this kid that while dances are a dime a dozen, your high school diploma is not? Or that your future life direction will be far more closely tied to your academic education than to whether or not you danced at prom?

The news makes out like Tyler's bird-brained school is at fault for enforcing the contract their students voluntarily sign. And without knowing the full scope of that contract, and whether it is binding on activities outside school grounds - they just may be in the wrong.

But, if you ask me, there's only one thing they should be upset about - that they have so miserably failed to communicate the importance of academic education to one of their own students.

It's not about whether he danced. It's about his conscious choice to insult the financial and intellectual investments of his parents and his teachers in his future, while fully informed of the consequences, by tossing his education aside for one night on the town.

Kids in war-ravaged countries all over the world walk miles each day, brave beatings and risk abduction by rebel soldiers - all driven by the longing to gain an education that will help them better themselves and their people. It's a lesson that Tyler Frost, and far too many of his posh Western peers, have sadly failed to learn.

Now THAT is truly embarrassing. Almost worth suing over.

WATCH TYLER'S INTERVIEW HERE:

Watch CBS Videos Online

Proverbs 5:7-23 (paraphrased)

2009-05-12T07:48:00.005-04:00

You are my sons and my daughters. You know I love you and advise you because of what I've learned since I was your age, right? Please don't let your minds wander away from what I'm about to say. Remember the players we talked about yesterday? The people who are immoral but they seem like so much flirtatious fun?

Stay away from them! Don't even go over to visit when you know someone is like that. You see, it's more than just about the sex. It's also about your honor and your reputation. People can be merciless, and you never know just how much is at stake: your finances, your character, even your health. So many diseases are transmitted sexually, and if you sleep around and get sick, you'll look back and think "Man! I wish I'd had more discipline! How did I get here? I never realized what I was getting into! Who will want to be with me now?"

But there's a simple way to fix this problem - be faithful. When you're married, don't mess around with others, focus all your love and attention and sexual attraction on your husband or wife. Don't just scatter your affection on everyone within reach, then it means nothing to anyone. Keep the most beautiful parts of yourself - emotionally and sexually - for the one you love, instead of diminishing it by sharing it with strangers.

Now, this isn't to say that sex is evil. It is so incredibly precious and beautiful that you should rejoice in it fully - but in the right time and place and context. Otherwise it gets tarnished.

So, no matter how old you get, take joy and pleasure in the person you have married. Treasure their features, notice the beautiful things about their body, revel in their physical assets. This way you'll always be mesmerised and captivated by how amazing your favorite person is, instead of having your head turned by every good-looking face that walks by.

It's all for your own satisfaction and happiness, so that you don't move emptily from person to person. But God sees what we do, too. And he observes our choices. He's watched a lot of people over the centuries, and he knows pretty well what happens as we make different choices... He knows that a man who can't control his lust and his sexuality is eventually going to be chained by his own addictions and trapped in them.

God has seen enough human mistakes to be accurate in predicting the consequences that follow. He knows that - whether in sexuality or anything else - if you don't have self-control and you can't manage your own desires, you're going to experience the consequences of foolish choices.

And most of all, he wants to save you from the pain.

Proverbs 5:1-6 (paraphrased)

2009-05-11T08:20:00.003-04:00

Okay now boys and girls, I want to give you some advice on dating. You may not like it too much right now, but it's going to keep you out of lots of trouble later. So listen carefully, alright? If you pay attention and remember this advice, then you'll be equipped to make discerning decisions in your love life, and the way you talk about romance will express what you've learned.

It's easy to be duped into believing what a player says. When someone is flirting with you they can be very convincing and you really want to believe them. Players sound so flattering and charming when they talk, they make you feel good about yourself, they're smooth, they've got game. But they're immoral, and when someone isn't looking for a godly relationship you are guaranteed to get hurt. At the end, you'll hate them and their words will sound like poison, because there was no godly commitment or intentions.

They'll break your heart, and sometimes the heartache is so painful that you'd just rather be dead. That's the true result of messing around with people who don't have scruples in their relationships, people who are just out for a fun time and what they can get.

These kind of people don't care about the future, or building a life together with you. It's like they're on a crooked trail that jerks their direction back and forth - and they don't even realize it. They think they're having fun and that you'll have fun with them, but the end result is always going to cause you pain.

Britain's "unwelcome" blacklist...

2009-05-05T11:46:00.002-04:00

Today's news talked about the new 16-name blacklist released by Great Britain.

(Read full article here.)

Unwelcome visitors include a neo-nazi leader, leaders of a violent Russian skin-head gang, a Jewish extremist and a former KKK leader.

Oh yes, and an American pastor known as a homophobe.

I can understand why any country wouldn't want the skinheads responsible for 20 murders hanging around. And I can understand why they'd want to ban entry to people who incite riot, violence and varying forms of intense hatred.

I get it.

What worries me, you ask? Why isn't this completely and wholly a good thing?

Read the British Home Secretary's words a couple of times: "The government opposes extremism in all its forms and I am determined to stop those who want to spread extremism, hatred and violent messages in our communities from coming to our country."

Well, what about the other side of it?

Last February Britain refused entry to a lawmaker who recently made a film linking Islam to terrorist attacks.

Sure, nobody wants people to come to their country spreading hate or violence.

But that comment is carefully worded. "...Extremism in ALL it's forms." So what about the extremism of actually believing in God in a country where athiesm is advertised on the side of public buses? What about the extremism of wanting to raise your children to believe in your chosen faith?

Is that gonna eventually be outlawed too?

cycling like you've never seen it...

2009-05-02T22:19:00.001-04:00

Can you believe these guys?

Yeah, I couldn't either!

just watch it...

2009-05-02T16:37:00.001-04:00

Here's a 3-part short film produced by Derek Taylor, a young Adventist film student at my alma mater, Southern Adventist University, and a crew of students and teachers there. As always, I'm quite proud of their work. GO SOUTHERN!

Ashley's dad was the strongest thing she could imagine, but when he tragically dies in Iraq, she's lost and afraid. Upset because her friends don't understand and her mom has detached, Ashley turns on Halima, a new Muslim classmate. Even though Halima has asthma, Ashley is blinded by fear and lack of understanding and sets out for revenge. Through their struggle for security and identity, the girls discover how fear can destroy, and love can build.

PART 1:

PART 2:

PART 3:

21 economic models explained...

2009-05-01T12:00:00.003-04:00

SOCIALISM
You have 2 cows.
You give one to your neighbour.

COMMUNISM
You have 2 cows.
The State takes both and gives you some milk.

FASCISM
You have 2 cows.
The State takes both and sells you some milk.

NAZISM
You have 2 cows.
The State takes both and shoots you.

BUREAUCRATISM
You have 2 cows.
The State takes both, shoots one, milks the other, and then throws the milk away.

TRADITIONAL CAPITALISM
You have two cows.
You sell one and buy a bull.
Your herd multiplies, and the economy grows.
You sell them and retire on the income.

SURREALISM
You have two giraffes.
The government requires you to take harmonica lessons.

AN AMERICAN CORPORATION
You have two cows.
You sell one, and force the other to produce the milk of four cows.
Later, you hire a consultant to analyze why the cow has dropped dead.

ROYAL BANK OF SCOTLAND VENTURE CAPITALISM
You have two cows.
You sell three of them to your publicly listed company, using letters of credit opened by your brother-in-law at the bank, then execute a debt/equity swap with an associated general offer so that you get all four cows back, with a tax exemption for five cows.
The milk rights of the six cows are transferred via an intermediary to a Cayman Island Company secretly owned by the majority shareholder who sells the rights to all seven cows back to your listed company.
The annual report says the company owns eight cows, with an option on one more.
You sell one cow to buy a new president of the United States, leaving you with nine cows.
No balance sheet provided with the release.
The public then buys your bull.

A FRENCH CORPORATION
You have two cows.
You go on strike, organize a riot, and block the roads, because you want three cows.

A JAPANESE CORPORATION
You have two cows.
You redesign them so they are one-tenth the size of an ordinary cow and produce twenty times the milk.
You then create a clever cow cartoon image called 'Cowkimon' and market it worldwide.

A GERMAN CORPORATION
You have two cows.
You re-engineer them so they live for 100 years, eat once a month, and milk themselves.

AN ITALIAN CORPORATION
You have two cows, but you don't know where they are.
You decide to have lunch.

A RUSSIAN CORPORATION
You have two cows.
You count them and learn you have five cows.
You count them again and learn you have 42 cows.
You count them again and learn you have 2 cows.
You stop counting cows and open another bottle of vodka.

A SWISS CORPORATION
You have 5000 cows. None of them belong to you.
You charge the owners for storing them.

A CHINESE CORPORATION
You have two cows.
You have 300 people milking them.
You claim that you have full employment, and high bovine productivity.
You arrest the newsman who reported the real situation.

AN INDIAN CORPORATION
You have two cows.
You worship them.

A BRITISH CORPORATION
You have two cows.
Both are mad.

AN AUSTRALIAN CORPORATION
You have two cows.
Business seems pretty good.
You close the office and go for a few beers to celebrate.

AN IRAQI CORPORATION
Everyone thinks you have lots of cows.
You tell them that you have none.
No-one believes you, so they bomb you and invade your country.
You still have no cows, but at least you are now a Democracy.

Proverbs 4:20-27 (paraphrased)

2009-05-01T08:44:00.003-04:00

My beautiful children, it sounds like I'm saying this a lot, but it's only because it is so important. Please listen and don't tune out my words. It's easy to do, but these are valuable for your whole life. So let them soak into you and become part of you.

These words of instruction, if you let them, will bring healing and restoration to your mind, soul and body.

First of all, no matter what happens children, always ALWAYS protect your heart. You see, when you allow your heart to get attached to someone or something, it changes the direction of your choices, and those choices can change the direction of your entire life - for good or for bad. So always be very careful where you let yourself get attached.

Second, always stay away from any kind of talk that is negative or perverted. Don't let yourself start talking with bad words, or in corrupted speech patterns. This goes three ways: the obvious one is don't curse or use foul language. But it also means that even if all your words are technically clean, you should never imply dirty innuendo or cruel gossip and other hurtful uses of good words. And last, it means that it is important to speak clearly and articulately - because the way your speech sounds will affect people's ability to trust and understand you.

When you have a goal, keep focused on it and move directly toward it, not getting distracted by every little thing on the side. When God has given you a plan of action, stick to it and don't wander around exploring. When you are sidetracked, it's easier to get involved in evil. But if you stay focused, you can reach your goal!

Proverbs 4:10-19 (paraphrased)

2009-04-30T09:07:00.002-04:00

Listen, children, and do your best to follow instructions so that ou can live a very long and happy life.

I'm going to teach you how Wisdom works, so that you'll be able to go in a straight direction in life instead of wandering in crooked circles. This way, when you go slowly in life you won't be held in one place, and when you move quickly toward something you want, you won't trip and fall.

Cling to these little lessons, don't just forget them as soon as you hear them. Pretend like you are standing guard over these keys to life's happiness and fulfillment.

You'll meet people around you that are wicked, but don't do what they do or follow their example. Don't even let yourself think about imitating them, just keep on walking in the direction that Wisdom tells you. Turn your back on invitations to join people who aren't doing right.

You see, being wicked is almost like a compulsion - evil people can even get to sleep at night unless they've done their bad deed for the day and caused some kind of hurt or pain or regret. It's like they can't relax and rest until they've been able to prevent someone from doing right. You'd almost think that they get more nourishment from their hurtful actions than from food, and that they are more addicted to violence and causing pain than to their favorite drink!

But good people who are honest, live differently. The direction of their lives is kind of like the first moments when the sun comes up - it brings hope for the new day. Then as you get to know them that hope and goodness shines brighter and brighter, just like the sun gets warmer and fuller at noon.

On the other hand, people who make rotten choices live their lives as though it's midnight and they are stumbling around in the darkness. They don't have a clue what keeps causes them to trip, because they aren't wise enough to see for themselves. The worst part? They bring that cloud of darkness and blindness to everyone who joins them. Then you won't have any idea what's making you fall either!

obituary...

2009-04-30T08:32:00.001-04:00

An Obituary printed in the London Times...

'Today we mourn the passing of a beloved old friend, Common Sense, who has been with us for many years. No one knows for sure how old he was, since his birth records were long ago lost in bureaucratic red tape. He will be remembered as having cultivated such valuable lessons as:

Knowing when to come in out of the rain; Why the early bird gets the worm; Life isn't always fair; and Maybe it was my fault.

Common Sense lived by simple, sound financial policies (don't spend more than you can earn) and reliable strategies (adults, not children, are in charge).

His health began to deteriorate rapidly when well-intentioned but overbearing regulations were set in place. Reports of a 6-year-old boy charged with sexual harassment for kissing a classmate; teens suspended from school for using mouthwash after lunch; and a teacher fired for reprimanding an unruly student, only worsened his condition.

Common Sense lost ground when parents attacked teachers for doing the job that they themselves had failed to do in disciplining their unruly children.

Common Sense's health declined even further when schools were required to get parental consent to administer sun lotion or an Aspirin to a student; but could not inform parents when a student became pregnant and wanted to have an abortion.

He lost the will to live as the churches became businesses; and criminals received better treatment than their victims. Common Sense took a beating when you couldn't defend yourself from a burglar in your own home and the burglar could sue you for assault.

Common Sense finally gave up the will to live, after one woman failed to realise that a steaming cup of coffee was hot, spilled a little in her lap, and was promptly awarded a huge settlement.

Common Sense was preceded in death by his parents, Truth and Trust, his wife, Discretion, his daughter, Responsibility and his son, Reason.

He is survived by his 4 stepbrothers;
I Know My Rights
I Want It Now
Someone Else Is To Blame
I'm A Victim

Not many attended his funeral because so few realized he was gone.

more about children in war

2009-04-29T08:42:00.002-04:00

A year or more ago I blogged about the grass-roots movement called Invisible Children. Invisible Children was started by a couple of college kids with a video camera from eBay who decided go joyriding through Africa for a semester.

Then they got there. And were heartbroken by the results of war in Sudan and northern Uganda. So they filmed an amateur documentary.

That was five years ago. Here are some of their videos from Christmas last year, encouraging people to give:

JOY & PEACE, FROM INVISIBLE CHILDREN

THIS YEAR, GIVE 100%

Proverbs 4:1-9 (paraphrased)

2009-04-29T08:34:00.002-04:00

Kids, don't be too proud to listen closely when your dad or mom have to correct you. It's smart to pay attention and if you do, you'll learn how to make good choices because they love you and want you to be well-guided in life.

Do your best not to shrug away when they tell you things, and when you are frustrated at them for their teaching efforts, remember that they were kids once too, and they had to learn from the wisdom of their own parents. And probably they sometimes felt just like you do.

Grandma and Grandpa taught your parents to listen closely and take their words to heart. If you can learn to do the same thing, to follow what they say - you can have a good life, too! It's very basic - get wisdom, and always practice making wise choices. Don't reject or disdain your parent's advice, they just want to protect you.

If you can learn to love wisdom, wisdom will love you back. And if you make an effort to become wise, it'll be the smartest thing you can do for yourself, no matter what other things you pursue. Treat wisdom like a prestigious award, give wisdom lots of love and affection in your heart (instead of bitterness or hatred) - and you will be honored, and praised as a result.

Proverbs 3:29-35 (paraphrased)

2009-04-28T08:11:00.003-04:00

Some of these things may sound obvious, but remember that not everyone is like you, and some people need this advice. Also remember that you may not always feel the way you do now, and someday you may need this wisdom yourself!

Don't be determined to cause harm to people close to you, whether it is your neighbours or your own family. These are the people in your life who trust you the most, and your good relationship with them depends on that trust.

And never go picking fights. There's no reason to fight unnecessarily. If no one has harmed you, then why are you so angry and touchy? It's never healthy to be jealous of people who are popular because of their violence, and it never pays to try and be like them. (So kids, why don't you stop and think about your favorite movie stars, action heroes and music celebrities? Do their violent scenes/lifestyles/lyrics inspire your admiration?)

You see, God says that people who encourage and enjoy violence (even for the sake of entertainment, I'd guess) are detestable to him. But if you want to be gentle and wise like God himself is, then he will want to be your friend! Can you imagine the God of the whole universe longing to be YOUR friend?

The house of wickedness and evil is cursed by God, but he pours out blessings on the homes of people who seek to do right. If you mock God, he just might let your rude words bounce back on you - but if you're humble, God will be gracious and loving to you.

God says that people, even children, who love Wisdom will inherit honor! But anyone who just insists on being foolish will end up feeling shamefully embarrassed.

That's not really such a hard choice, is it?

on "war child"...

2009-04-28T06:58:00.001-04:00

Over the last couple of weeks my nightstand held the book War Child by Emmanuel Jal, for my bedtime reading.

Jal tells his story in brutal yet poignant detail, of how he was sent away from war-torn Sudan to go to "school" in Ethiopia and how the schools were actually refugee camps packed with tens of thousands of starving people. They were also prime recruiting grounds for the various armies to find young boys easily swayed by promises of food, excitement and the opportunity to wreak revenge on those who had slaughtered their families.

By the age of 7 Jal was training to be a soldier. At 8, he carried an AK-47 into battles. He spoke several languages already, including English, and dreamed of flying planes.

His journey of survival as one of the Lost Boys of Sudan, and later becoming an author and musician is inspiring.

If you've ever questioned the reality of how children suffer in places the world would rather forget, you oughta pick up this book.

ENFJ

2009-04-27T08:47:00.001-04:00

(If you haven't read last week's post "on personality tests", please do - it's the precursor for this post.)

So last week I took the Myers-Briggs test online. Apparently, I'm an ENFJ. Most of the descriptors were bang on.

Marius is an ESFJ. People wonder how exactly we get along - since we're both the oldest siblings and we almost share a personality type!

I'd say that getting along in marriage is more about having a clear agreement on the defined roles each partner takes (and gaining satisfaction and fulfillment from diligently caring for your spouse), than about personality type or temperament.

If you happen to believe, as we do, that biblical principles clearly outline ideal roles for husbands and wives in marriage - then it's not about besting each other. Instead it becomes all about seeking to fulfill your role to the best of your ability. It isn't about competition, it's about complementing each other.

And while they always say that "opposites attract", I believe that in the end what's opposite is what drives you batty. It's the things you hold in common that cement a good relationship.

Yes, we're a lot alike. But we think it makes us stronger. We understand each other because we're so similar. We click. And yes, in the beginning there was a little jockeying now and then for who was going to be in charge of what, but we eventually got it settled.

Most of all, I'm just glad he's my best friend. Somehow, no matter how much time we spend together, we never get sick of each other. That's the biggest blessing of all.

Proverbs 3:21-28 (paraphrased)

2009-04-27T08:07:00.002-04:00

My dears, stay focused on practical things like developing your common sense and the quality of discernment. Cling to these things, because they are guaranteed sources of soul-refreshment. Think of them like the beautiful jewels on an expensive necklace - they are valuable, and just seeing them makes you feel better!

Common sense and discernment keep you safe, they keep you from stumbling into painful mistakes along the way. When you've got common sense you can sleep through stormy nights - knowing that you've done all your duties well, and that nothing is going to blow away. (Remember the Uncle Arthur story?)

When you have discernment, you don't have to live in a constant state of near-panic over what disaster might come next, and you don't sit and worry about being blamed for something wicked.

Discernment helps you live wisely, and it also reminds you that God is your source of security. He's going to keep you from getting all trapped up in something dangerous.

As you put your common sense and discernment into practice, remember this: don't ever refuse to share goodness with those who deserve it. Any time it is in your power to help someone, do it! And don't put helpfulness off for the sake of convenience, either. If your neighbour needs you, don't say "Sure, let me check my calender - I should have some time next month, I think!"

Just go and help them!

secret sisters...

2009-04-25T14:40:00.001-04:00

This week I got a gift from my secret sister at church. The sweetest card, a bar of dark chocolate (mmmmmmmmmmm), and a little book called Married for Life: Inspirations from those married 50 years or more.

Married for Life is a collection of stories and advice from couples who've made their marriages a success. In between the different segments are pages called "Heartwarmers" - things you can do for quality time together that cost next to nothing.

Some of the ones on my short-term to do list from the book:

have a picnic breakfast in the back yard
cuddle in a hammock in the shade, or by a waterfall
go window shopping and then buy ice cream
take a leisurely drive and enjoy the scenery
share an old fashioned ice cream soda

And it got me thinking about some of the things we love to do together that don't cost much money. Here's a few of our own faves:

write each other cards and leave them on the pillow
tell stories about our childhood memories
go through old pictures and laugh at how young we looked
each get a book and snuggle under one blanket on the couch
hold hands on warm evening walks
make supper smoothies and drink them on our deck

What do you like to do?

the first car made in Detroit after the bailout...

2009-04-24T15:52:00.000-04:00

on personality tests...

2009-04-24T08:44:00.001-04:00

Yesterday, Marius came home for lunch and started telling me about this personality test he'd taken that morning.

I've heard people talk about the Myers-Briggs test before, so it wasn't exactly new. I think it's always a good idea to learn more about ourselves and the personalities and temperaments that God gave us at birth. Self-awareness is a good thing, right?

On the other hand, I've known a whole lot of nice Christian people who take those tests, slap a label on their personality or temperament, and then use it as a lifelong excuse to escape growth. From what I've learned about God and being his disciple - life is about change. It's about becoming more like Jesus today than you were yesterday, becoming kinder, more patient, more giving, more honest, more loving and living with greater integrity. And then repeating that process again tomorrow.

So if you ask me, self-awareness is only good if it leads to selfless growth. Otherwise, it's a just bucketload of bunk. I can't imagine God asking "So, how many people did you tell about what Jesus has done for you?" and then accepting the answer, "Oh no, God - are you nuts? I'm an INFP - we just don't express ourselves verbally. You don't mind, though do you?"

Every personality has got strengths - it's that diversity of strong points that make us beautiful as a human race. And every personality has got its weaknesses - but none of us are exempt from the journey toward becoming more like Jesus and less like our natural selves, right?

We are all equally called to seek truth, love people, and obey God - and while some aspects of that quest come more easily to different personalities - we're all subject to the same endgame.

I once read an article in the old "Youth's Instructor" magazine (I think this one was published sometime around 1900), called "It's Natural". I don't remember the name of the author, and I couldn't seem to find a digital copy online. But the point was this:

Lots of things come natural. But saying "It's natural!" is never an acceptable excuse.
I'm selfish - but I can't help it, it's natural!
I'm arrogant - it's natural!
I hate the burden of hospitality - but it's just my personality!
I dislike serving people - I just wasn't made for it!
I know I get snappy and impatient - but it's just the way I am!

So what? Isn't that what getting to know Jesus is supposed to be all about? Transforming what's "natural" and becoming a new person? So who cares what's natural? It's all gotta change anyway - for everyone's personalities and temperaments.

Unless of course, YOU consider yourself already perfect.

Proverbs 3:13-20 (paraphrased)

2009-04-24T07:45:00.002-04:00

It's really all about Wisdom, kids. You're going to hear me talk about Wisdom quite a lot. Do you know why Wisdom is the center of things? Because it brings joy, and it gives you understanding. You see, Wisdom will gain you more profit than hard currency, and the rewards of being wise feel even better than getting a big paycheck for work you've done.

Wisdom is pretty rare, too - like rubies. It can be hard to find people who allow themselves to be wise. But no material thing that you long for will make you as happy as Wisdom.

Remember how we imagined Wisdom as a beautiful gracious woman? Think of her as someone who brings you a long life in one hand, and wealth and honor in her other hand. She's also your tour guide for finding delight and satisfaction wherever you go. Now, doesn't she sound like a welcome guest?

Or, if you want to imagine her differently - think of a very large tree with deep roots and lots of shade. A tree that gives fruit to anyone who will pick it for themselves. The fruit of the tree of Wisdom brings life, and if you hug the tree's trunk and stay close you will be very happy.

Did you know that God created the earth using Wisdom as his guide? God's wisdom and understanding guided him through making the whole universe. His knowledge made the wells and the geysers and the waterfalls and the rain and dew - all the things that provide life-giving water to us.

Town Hall For Hope

2009-04-23T21:57:00.002-04:00

For the past 9 weeks our church has hosted a local course of Financial Peace University, a Christian approach to money management and living debt-free. (My hubby and I experienced this a couple of years ago, but I'll post about our story later.)

This is the first FPU course ever held here, and more than 80 people have been attending every single session. FPU is taught by Dave Ramsey, Christian financial advisor, and we happen to be huge fans of his presentation of the biblical principles of stewardship.

So tonight, our church joined more than 6,000 locations across the country, broadcasting a live feed of the Town Hall for Hope with FOX news. And despite rain, hail and a severe thunderstorm warning, it was well attended.

I'll admit to getting queasy sometimes when I think about the financial direction of the current economy. But Dave's straight-shooting, no-bull, faith-centred approach to money always lightens my mood. You'd think talking money wouldn't be exactly thrilling - unless you're Bill Gates - right?

Tonight I laughed out loud. And I was inspired to stay true to the principles of biblical stewardship and financial thriftiness that we have made a part of our life philosophy.

Some of my favorite quotes from tonight (as I remember them, maybe not word for word):

"The old administration decided to bail out STUPID. Then we got a new administration that voted to stimulate STUPID!"

"Research says that you tend to make income compatible with that of your 10 closest friends. Some of y'all are sitting there thinking that you need some new friends!"

"Take responsibility for your own life choices. It isn't the president's job to fix your mistakes, even if he thinks it is!"

I'll post again when I can find some clips of the actual presentation online. If you missed it - you missed out!

just to make you laugh...

2009-04-20T09:59:00.001-04:00

After getting all of Pope Benedict's luggage loaded into the limo, (and he doesn't travel light), the driver notices that the Pope is still standing on the curb.

"Excuse me, Your Holiness," says the driver, "Would you please take your seat so we can leave?"

"Well, to tell you the truth," says the Pope, "they never let me drive at the Vatican when I was a cardinal, and I'd really like to drive today."

"I'm sorry, Your Holiness, but I cannot let you do that. I'd lose my job! What if something should happen?" protests the driver, wishing he'd never gone to work that morning.

"Who's going to tell?" says the Pope with a smile?

Reluctantly, the driver gets in the back as the Pope climbs in behind the wheel. The driver quickly regrets his decision when, after exiting the airport, the Pontiff floors it, accelerating the limo to 205 kph. (Remember, the Pope is German.)

"Please slow down, Your Holiness!" pleads the worried driver, but the Pope keeps on until they hear sirens.

"Oh, dear God, I'm going to lose my license -- and my job!" moans the driver.

The Pope pulls over and rolls down the window as the cop approaches, but the cop takes one look at him, goes back to his motorcycle, and gets on the radio.

"I need to talk to the Chief," he says to the dispatcher.

The Chief gets on the radio and the cop tells him that he's stopped a limo going 205 kph.

"So bust him," says the Chief.

"I don't think we want to do that, he's really important," said the cop.

The Chief exclaimed, "All the more reason!"

"No, I mean really important," said the cop with a bit of persistence.

The Chief then asked, "Who do you have there, the mayor?"

"Bigger."
"A senator?"
"Bigger."
"The Prime Minister?"
"Bigger."
"Well," said the Chief, "Who is it?"
"I think it's God!"

The Chief is even more puzzled and curious, "What makes you think it's God?"

"Because his chauffeur is the Pope!"

Proverbs 3:1-12 (paraphrased)

2009-04-20T08:47:00.002-04:00

Okay boys and girls, you are like my children. Listen closely so you won't forget the important lessons you are learning here. Take these ideas and the things that I say, and put them in a very safe place in your mind so that you'll never forget them.

Did you know that if you'll treasure these wise sayings in your mind, you can plan on living for a long, long time - until you're really old. And all those years will be good and satisfying ones instead of being filled with empty searches for life's meaning.

Cling to the values of loyalty and kindness - just like a necklace that you'd never take off - keep them close to you. Engrave these two principles of living on the core of your heart and mind so that they are a living part of you. Life that is guided by these principles will make you loved by God and people alike. Kindness and loyalty will also bring you an outstanding reputation - and your reputation is very important.

Trust in God with every part of you, instead of trusting your own experience as a wiser guide. Try to ask God what he wants you to do in every situation - and he has promised to show you which choices to make.

Avoid getting arrogant about all the things you know and how smart you are. Maybe God has taught you many things, but you still have to be careful about depending on yourself. Instead, keep a high respect for God and always walk away from negative choices. You'll be healthier and stronger as a result.

Give God glory with every financial resource through your tithes and offerings, and also in the way you spend what is left over. Make sure to honor God with the best parts of his blessings. When you give things away to the poor, don't give the worst items - give the nicest ones. If you do this, God will honor you back and give you more than you can eat, more than you can drink, more than you can keep in the bank.

Kids, please don't get hateful when God has to teach you new things, or when he has to correct you for making mistakes. This discipline is what teaches us important lessons so that we don't do the same bad things over and over. It isn't to make you upset, it's to help you grow so that you are always becoming wiser!

God has to spank the ones he loves sometimes. Oh, he doesn't actually reach down from heaven and "spank" you, but sometimes the learning experiences are so hard that you'd rather just have a spanking! But he does it because he loves you and wants you to be your best, just like sometimes your mommy and daddy have to give you some kind of consequence to help you learn a good lesson - it's because they love you very, very much.

39 years of marriage...

2009-04-17T08:08:00.002-04:00

Today is a day for celebrating my parents.

In a society where 50% of marriages end in divorce and the average marriage lasts about 7 years, they've been married - and happily - for 39 years!

Mom and Dad were high school sweethearts, dating for 3 years - including while Dad went away to boot camp when he was 19 and mom was 16. (This is a picture of them on the day he left for the Army, August 1969.)
They got married the following April, 1970. Dad was 20, and Mom was 17 and still a senior in high school. My gramma gave her a $10 check for wedding expenses and said "Please try not to spend it all, dear!"

Her 9 sisters pooled their money together and said, "We'll give you either flowers or a reception - you pick." Mom sewed her own wedding dress, and Dad wore his dress uniform. (She was a tiny little thing - I think I fit her dress pretty well by the time I was around 12 years old!)

Three weeks after the wedding, the Army shipped Dad to Vietnam for a year. He worked as a mechanic for Huey helicopters. Wasn't he a hottie?

Mom stayed home to finish highschool. She was (and still is) so beautiful! I can't imagine how lonely it must have been, wondering if Dad was okay, and being so young and alone.

Since then, they've lived in Germany, Russia, and various parts of the United States. They became Seventh-day Adventists in 1980, while dad was stationed at Fort Hood, TX. That's also where I was born. What a special place, huh? (j/k)

When my parents took vows for "in sickness and health, in poverty and wealth" they probably didn't know how tipped toward sickness and poverty the scales would be. But since then they've weathered financial hardship and pinched pennies while raising a family on one income. And their door was always open to anyone in need. When we didn't have a guest room, there was always the couch, and if the couch was full, there were always pallets to be made on the floor. No one was ever turned away, and friends often came calling because our house was just a nice place to be.

Mom could take the dumpiest trailer-house and turn it into pleasant home - usually by scouring the Goodwill for undiscovered treasures, or digging through cloth remnants and then sewing drapes or furniture covers herself. We never had much as kids, but we never knew it.

And while we never had the money to shop for real clothes (my sister still vividly remembers her very first "new" dress that was neither homemade nor from Goodwill - around the age of 13), mom always managed to look like a lady and kept us looking dainty too.

"I don't know how your mother does it," my dad said a few years ago. "We can have absolutely nothing in the refrigerator, but someone shows up for dinner and in 45 minutes your momma can turn out a feast!" Hospitality with anything available has always been a mantra for mom and dad.

For years, Dad worked tirelessly to provide for the family - so that Mom could stay home and raise the kids. I'd say that my sister and I are truly who we are because of their partnership sacrifices. Without raising us that way, I'm certain they'd have been "big important" people on somebody else's measuring stick. But then we wouldn't be who we are. So that's pretty big and important to me.

"I never knew a man who could work as hard as your Daddy," an old friend of theirs told me last year. "He was tall, but not very big, but he could still work any man around him right into the ground! One time, while your Daddy was ranching in Texas, he needed some help digging post holes by hand to put up fencing. So me and this big Samoan guy went out to help him.

"I was pretty sure the other big guy was going to show your dad how to get it done! But after about 30 minutes, that big guy was huffing and puffing and ready to fall over. Digging post holes is hard work! But your Daddy just shook his head and laughed. 'We've got about 9 more hours of this,' he said, 'so you better get moving!' I never forgot how hard your Daddy worked!"

In recent years, Dad's health hasn't been so great. And I can only imagine what it must be like to suffer undiagnosed symptoms that keep him from living life at his accustomed pace. He can't get around right now like he used to, although we keep hoping his spry skipping and jumping-jacks-in-place will come back someday.

But now, he spends his time helping Mom. I don't know any other man who is as dedicated to serving others as he is. He'll do pretty much anything she needs, and he never complains. Instead, he's usually whistling. It's how we find him in stores - just stand quiet for a minute and you'll know exactly where he is.

He was even whistling in the hotel at this big fancy dinner we attended recently - WHILE I was taking pictures of them!

They still flirt like teenagers - which as their kid, is pretty cool to know that they love each other that much.

Mom and Dad, Happy Anniversary! You have both been an inspiration to Marius and me - and we hope that someday we can be old and turn grey together (if Marius has any hair left by then), and still be just as loving and dedicated to each other as you are.

a good sermon...

2009-04-16T15:18:00.002-04:00

Weekend before last, my PH (pastor husband) preached one of his most spirit-filled sermons yet.

He shared about the incredible story of JN Andrews, and how we can each take a sense of ownership in the stories of people who have shown faith and courage before us. And he shared about newly-discovered stories of faithfulness to God in his own family in Romania.

If you think about it, my hubby is a Christian as a direct result of the passionate sacrifices of JN Andrews - since Andrews was the first missionary to Europe. It's Andrews' work that first brought a new understanding of bible truth to Romania way back then.

Wanna hear it? Listen here: http://marietta.netadventist.org/index.php?option=com_sermon&Itemid=63.

(NOTE: The sermon itself starts at about 39:45 in the audio file. The first 39:00 minutes are just the preliminaries.)

Proverbs 2:16-22 (paraphrased)

2009-04-16T09:21:00.002-04:00

Being friends with Wisdom has so many practical benefits. If you develop a strong connection to Wisdom - and actually do what she says - you can avoid getting involved in sexual addictions, and you'll also avoid marrying someone who is a cheater or a manipulative seducer. That way you won't get trapped in love with someone who doesn't value the covenants that they make to God or other people. This will save you so much heartache!

You see, those kind of people - the kind who seduce you and then manipulate and cheat on you - they may look like fun, exotic, and exciting people. But the end result of dating or marrying them (or even just having sex with them) brings emotional death.

Once you've been cheated on, or manipulated and seduced into something that is wrong - you're never quite the same again. You may heal over time, but you never trust people so easily again. And it is so painful that some people never fully heal afterwards.

But if you stay close to Wisdom and follow her suggestions, you can walk in the shoes of good people - following the footsteps of many wise men and women who have lived before you. Wisdom will help you make choices that keep you doing right and living the way that pleases God and that will ultimately bring you the greatest happiness.

Besides, God has promised that the people who live according to moral principles will be protected and he will bless them both in this life and in the next life. But those who reject good living, and who insist on doing their own thing will never get to the next life to enjoy what is there.

Proverbs 2:9-15 (paraphrased)

2009-04-14T09:31:00.002-04:00

If you'll pay attention to Wisdom and what she's trying to tell you, figuring out the difference between right and wrong won't be hard. It'll almost come natural to know which course of action is fair and honest. With Wisdom, you'll always be able to find the best way to go.

You see, Wisdom isn't just a woman or a companion. It's like she gets down inside your heart and becomes part of you. When you and Wisdom are so close, you won't be afraid of knowledge - instead knowing the right things will make you happy.

Have you ever wondered how you could be sure to be safe and do what's right? If you make wise choices, it's like an insurance policy - your choices help to watch over you. When you understand the world around you, you're safe from doing stupid things that will cause you trouble.

Having Wisdom by your side and in your heart can help keep you away from people who would hurt you. It'll keep you safe from people who lie and cheat and would take advantage of you. People like this don't want to be making right choices or following a good path in life. They would rather enjoy doing what is wrong. Hurting other people actually makes them happy. But they're all twisted up inside and their ways are wrong.

But if you are sticking close to Wisdom - you won't have to worry about these people - because you'll have nothing in common!

on extraordinary talent...

2009-04-14T08:45:00.004-04:00

If you live in Britain or elsewhere, you may have already seen it. But if you only watch American TV - or don't watch TV at all - you've probably missed it.

Yesterday I bumped into the YouTube video of last week's episode of Britain's Got Talent. (For all you non-internationals out there, it's kind of like American Idol - complete with Simon Cowell as one of the judges.)

Susan Boyle, a 47-year old competitor, admits in her interview that she lives alone with her cat in a small UK village. She's never had a boyfriend, and never been kissed. She volunteers with her local church, is unemployed, and her singing experience is limited to church choir and karaoke.Susan was sassy and confident, saying she'd like to be a famous singer and just never had the chance.

Judges and audience both were prepared for her to sound awful. And then she knocked their socks off with a stunning and soulful rendition of "I Dreamed A Dream" from Les Miserables. Proof? Just look at the sequence of expressions on Simon's face:

Prepared for the worst.

Taken by surprise at the first few bars.

Pleasantly enjoying the audience's stunned appreciation.

Sighing like a little boy, in rapturous contentment.

You can watch the whole video clip here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9lp0IWv8QZY. It'll give you goosebumps!

Gotta say, (while I rarely ever watch any reality show) I have to appreciate how Britain's Got Talent seems to be based on the contestants actual ability to sing - rather than seeking an elusive package of teenage stardom. American Idol and other Hollywood shows focus on the contestants' weight/size/sex appeal/fashion sense and other factors in "the whole package" so much that actual singing ability doesn't seem to truly matter!

Who cares if she's 47 and kinda frumpy? Who cares if she isn't a goddess? The woman has the voice of an angel! I'd buy her CD's or download her on iTunes! (See her competition progress updates here: http://www.susan-boyle.com/. She hasn't won the show yet...)

I'm reminded of Paul Potts - the other classical singing sensation discovered on the same TV show (WATCH HERE). He was a cell phone salesman, with nasty crooked teeth and a total lack of self-confidence. But he blew everyone away with "Nessun Dorma", and went on to become a fantastic classical singer (HIS MUSIC HERE).

on general insanity...

2009-04-10T18:27:00.002-04:00

While browsing weather.com for this afternoon's tornado watch, I chanced on a news article that was so ridiculous I almost laughed out loud.

Apparently, the vice-president Biden family bought a pure-bred puppy last winter. From a breeder. 'Cause that's where most people go when they want a pure-bred puppy, right?

Since then, PETA has been making that particular breeder's life a daytime nightmare. For selling pure-breds. 'Cause that means somebody didn't go down to the local animal shelter and find themselves an (almost) free mutt.

So what? They wanted a pure bred. They went to a breeder. Who cares?

Now, for all the animals who are truly abused and neglected - I hold great compassion. I happen to believe that God created humans to be caretakers of the planet, and that we typically don't give a care about being gentle and humane to the rest of His creatures.

That said, how can the purchase of a pure-bred puppy remotely pass as "news"? What about the human children who are starving all over the world, without comment by the media? What about the women beaten and abused by men who get off the hook through a corrupted judicial system? What about the innocent, falsely accused who are imprisoned for crimes they didn't commit - due to that same corrupt judicial system?

Can't we think of anything better to get riled up about? C'mon, people!

Proverbs 2:1-8 (paraphrased)

2009-04-10T09:31:00.002-04:00

Why A Little Wisdom Is Good For You

Okay, kids, try to stop fidgeting for a minute and listen to something very important. I want you to take my words and put them into your mind and save them like a precious treasure.

When you hear something that is wise, tune in and listen - like a good radio station. Stop what you're doing and concentrate on trying to understand what Wisdom is trying to tell you.

You know how you cry when you are very hungry? Or if you were lost, you would yell out for help? Treat Wisdom the same way - call out to her and actively seek to understand things around you just like you would actively seek for help if you were hurt or lost.

Becoming wise is like going on a treasure hunt. You know the treasure is out there, but you're not sure where it is. And you don't stop searching in the first 5 minutes, because sometimes it takes a little work to figure out the clues on the treasure map, right? But if you really want to find the treasure, you'll stick with it, and then at the end you'll be very happy!

It's the same with Wisdom, you have to learn to respect and honor God and when you do - you will start to understand what God is teaching you. God is eager for you to find the treasure of wisdom, but only the treasure seekers who are truly determined will get the prize. God gives knowledge and understanding to anyone who asks for it. Just like anybody can go get a treasure map - but that doesn't mean that everyone will work their way to the end of the map.

You know, kids, there are different kinds of treasure in life. Sometimes it can be silver or gold or something like that. But many times, treasure looks different than money or jewelry. Treasure can be other things too - like the treasure of having "common sense"! Or the treasure of being honest and never telling a lie. Being a person of integrity - that's a treasure. (And God promises to protect and honor people who always stand strong for what they believe!)

God has also promised to guard the path of people who are just and fair. And if you are faithful to him, God has promised to protect you, too! I think that being safe and protected by God is one kind of treasure too. What do you think?

Proverbs 1:20-33 (paraphrased)

2009-04-09T08:46:00.003-04:00

Let's talk about wisdom symbolically, as though it was a real live person - maybe a woman? Yes, she's a beautiful woman and her name is Wisdom. So what does our friend Wisdom do?

She isn't hard to find - if you pay attention you can hear her calling out to you when you walk down the street. Sometimes she tries to get your attention through the news. When people get together in big crowds (which, you know, is when they are most likely to act unwise) Wisdom shows up there too! She always has questions to make you think, but most people don't like her questions.

She asks brutally honest things like:

"Come on, you morons, how long are you going to just insist on being stupid? How long are you skeptics going to refuse to find the answers and keep making fun of things? How long are you going to be happier as idiots instead of looking for real, solid answers to life?

"Why don't you come and talk to me? I'd be happy to dialogue with you. I have the experience of all the ages, and I'll share my heart with you, and then you can be wise too!"

Sometimes Wisdom gets discouraged because so few people pay any attention. She starts to cry in frustration. "I keep calling and calling, I keep offering to share everything that I know, and no one will listen! I reach out to touch them and make a friendship so that they can learn new things - but they just ignore me completely. Why do people refuse to take good advice? Why are they so proud that they would rather be stupid than be corrected a little so that they could actually be happy?"

Then she gets mad! She's a scorned woman and she won't take it any more. "You know what? Forget you! When you get into real trouble, guess who is NOT coming to bail you out! I'm just going to stand back and watch. Actually, I think I'll just stand there and laugh at you. I'll mock you and poke fun at your miserable consequences, just like you poked fun at me for trying to make you wiser. When your life falls apart, don't come crying to me, because I won't listen.

"When you think everything can't get any worse and you realise that your choices have ruined your chances - you're just going to have to figure out the answers alone. And I'll stand there and watch, adding experience from your stupidity to my vast treasure of wisdom, but you'll never be able to see me or get my help again!

"You've proved by your rejection of me that you really do prefer to be stupid. You hate knowing the answers, because they might injure your pride. You decided that God didn't know what he was talking about and you knew better. You took good advice and tossed it out the window.

"So here's your options: go and lie in the bed of thorns that you made for yourself. Go eat the poisoned meal that you cooked in your ignorance - I hope you choke on it as you swallow. Because I will not rescue someone who wouldn't listen in the first place!

And then, like any angry woman after her tirade is spent, Wisdom starts to calm back down and think rationally again. "Look, it's only the morons and idiots who will truly turn their back on a free chance to be smarter and wiser! But they are destroyed by their own lack of ambition and satisfaction with being stupid.

"Here, I'll make you a promise. If you'll listen to me, and pay attention to what is important - I will make sure that you live your life in peace and without fear. You'll always have a sense of direction in life. You just have to be humble about it and take a little correcting now and then. Is that really so hard?"

Proverbs 1:8-19 (paraphrased)

2009-04-08T07:57:00.001-04:00

A Parental Appeal

You are my child and I love you. So please listen when I correct you or give you advice. It's because I don't want you to get hurt. Please don't just ignore the instruction we give as your parents.

What you learn from people who are older and wiser will give you a sense of grace, almost like you are wearing it. Like a necklace that is so honored and special that it proves something to everyone. You will be special, if you pay attention to the wisdom around you.

And when cool people ask you to join them in doing stupid things, just walk away. They may try to convince you how fun it will be, or how clever their plans are, or how much bigger and stronger you will feel when you join the bullies who take advantage of the innocent. They may take you into their confidence and tell you all the material advantages of being a part of their group - maybe they have more money to spend, or nicer clothes than everyone else, or fancier cars - but they get these things because of the sinful way they live. They may even tempt you by telling you that you'll have an equal part in their fancy lifestyle if you will just hang out with them.

But please, please don't give in! Don't even hang out where they are. Stay as far away as you can! People like that don't think before jumping into a plan that is going to cause trouble. And often, their haste and carelessness causes great pain, or even death.

You know, the animals are smart about things like this. When they see a trap being set that will turn them into prey, they run away to somewhere safe.

But people are really stupid sometimes. We sometimes participate in things, or hang out with people that we know are not right, and it's like we're setting the trap for ourselves because of our choices. It's almost like we are determined to do something that will get ourselves in trouble or even get us killed.

And far too often, we set these traps for ourselves because of our greed. Because we really want the shiny things promised at the end. We'll do anything for more money or popularity - even when we are young children or teenagers - and it always ends up robbing us of life. We may not die in the process, but the innocence and beauty of our life is stripped away because of our actions and associates. So either way, life is unavoidably altered.

Proverbs 1:1-7 (paraphrased)

2009-04-07T09:39:00.000-04:00

Here is a collection of sayings from Solomon, who was the son of King David of Israel.

The point? To teach people how to be more wise and self-disciplined. And to help readers understand how very wise people think and process life.

The point? To help people live honest, successful lives - by teaching the importance of discipline and a strong inner sense of what is right, just and fair, to guide them through the process of making decisions.

This collection of sayings promises to provide insight for the people who have trouble figuring things out for themselves, and can help young people develop knowledge and wisdom while they need it most.

So if you're wise already, pay attention to these proverbs and you're guaranteed to grow even wiser. If you already have the gift of discernment, these sayings will be a source of guidance through your decisions, as you explore for yourself what the wise ones were trying to say in these sayings and stories and puzzles.

A proper respect and appreciation for God is the foundational structure if you want begin learning things that really matter and can make your life successful. But if you prefer to avoid self-discipline and you make fun of wisdom - then you're a foolish idiot.

The fine print: these paraphrases are from my own understanding and filtered through my personal experience. They are in no way intended to be scholarly or academic, nor are they researched through the original languages. They are simply the outflow of my reading while sitting with God in the mornings.

on devotional accountability...

2009-04-06T09:33:00.003-04:00

If you visit my blog regularly, you'll have noticed that I often post about something spiritually encouraging that I've read. Usually, these come to me during my quiet time with God in the mornings.

This week I've decided to start something new for a while. I'm going to read through the book of Proverbs, and write paraphrases for each passage, as blog posts.

The idea is to give me an accountability structure ("must blog my paraphrase today!"), while creating an outlet for me to rewrite the verses as I see God talking to me personally. I'm not assuming any theological or professional expertise, but if you're blessed by something God gives me - please do leave a comment and share about it!

The fine print: these paraphrases are from my own understanding and filtered through my personal experience. They are in no way intended to be scholarly or academic, nor are they researched through the original languages. They are simply the outflow of my reading while sitting with God in the mornings.

on being married to the preacher...

2009-04-06T08:57:00.006-04:00

The other day somebody asked me if I get bored of my husband's sermons. I could honestly answer that I don't. Oh, there's a few that I've heard several times and could repeat along with him by now, sure...

But, I've realized I look forward to hearing his sermons, and he has become one of my favorite speakers (because he's good, not just cause he's the cute guy who's taking me home after church!) His preaching inspires and challenges me - every time.

I once read a biography of Richard Wurmbrand, a Christian pastor who was imprisoned and tortured for preaching the gospel in communist Romania. One time the Wurmbrand's attended a rally of religious organizations where many other faith leaders stood up and declared their allegiance to the Communist party. Richard was conflicted. Should he join them against his conscience? Should he stay silent?

If he spoke his conscience, he would be arrested and might never see his family again. "If I do so, you lose your husband," he said to his wife Sabina.

"I do not wish to have a husband who is a coward," Sabina replied.

It takes a lot of courage to preach the gospel and to share Bible principles clearly in today's society. People like warm fuzzies. Sermons that make you feel good, instead of going "Ouch!" But every Bible truth brings a little "ouch" to it.

That got me thinking. What if I was married to a pastor who couldn't preach? Or who was content to preach platitudes instead of real truth? It'd mean a lifetime of "Great job, baby!" every weekend, while masking the real feelings. "Maybe you should try talking about something that really matters, baby..." Ugh, that would be hard - always wanting to give encouragement, always searching for something to praise.

So thanks, God - for the blessing of being married to a minister who is not only gifted with people, but gifted with preaching! And who is brave enough to preach what really counts, whether or not it is popular and easy.

I'm proud of you, baby!

mmmmm... ahhhh....

2009-04-04T08:02:00.000-04:00

Okay, so the rotten nasties of 24-hour-a-day "morning" sickness have left me scrambling for foods that soothe and calm.

As opposed to leaving me heaving and gagging and all that joy.

And I just gotta say, my stomach loves Almond Breeze Chocolate Milk. I've never been able to handle real chocolate milk, or real milk at all for that matter. And soy chocolate milk leaves that odd little aftertaste that you just can't ignore. Chocolate Rice Dream is too thin and watery.

But the Almond Breeze - mmm mmm YUM!

That's all folks, just had to share. :)

when do parents get to pat themselves on the back?

2009-04-03T05:23:00.000-04:00

Taking a break from the political observations...

A few days ago my husband and I were reading together before falling asleep. Expecting our first child has inspired a series of evening literary sessions on everything from nausea remedies to birthing options to character formation. And a whole lot of reminiscing together about our own childhoods and how we want to shape our home environment as an expanded family.

"When do you think parents get to congratulate themselves on a job well done?" I asked him suddenly. He stopped to think about it.

I know a lot of parents who walked around pretty smug when their 16-year-old was perfectly behaved while everyone else's teens were giving them horrors. But most of those perfect adolescent angels went wild and crazy by the time they were 22. Broke their parents' hearts.

Then there's the parents who thought for sure that their teen was going to be a lifetime rebel. And lots of them have settled down into successful, intelligent, God-fearing adults.

So I think that when parents go all self-congratulatory over their perfect teen, sometimes they're jumping the gun. Wait until that quiet, composed kid gets a chance to make all their own decisions and see if they still seem so perfect.

On the other hand, to parents of kids who test the rules, kick the boundaries, and generally try to figure out everything for themselves - I'd say "Don't despair until they're out of college - they have a lot of growing up to do between now and then!"

Of course I'm not advocating teen rebellion. But I think that youth who are guided through the treacherous process of sorting out their choices and taking personal ownership of their spirituality and beliefs have a lot better chance at being healthy adults. Even if it means they have to test their childhood theories a bit in order to find that ownership and surrender.

But the real test? I think it's when your kids start to have their own kids. Do their little rebellions continue? Or do they buckle down to the business of shaping characters for the next generation? We all tend to be a little more comfortable excusing our faults and habits when we're only responsible for ourselves. But when we become responsible for another's life - that's when we show our true selves.

So parents, if you question your kid's sanity at times - just give it a few more years. Odds are, when they start on the road to parenthood, they'll be re-thinking every little indulgence they ever allowed themselves.

And if you're one of those blessed parents whose adult children choose to imitate the best of your parenting and give their babies as caring a childhood as you gave them - then you can breathe deep and sit back knowing that you truly did your job well.

(Mom & Dad, are you reading this? I hope you're reading this. You'd better be reading this!)

it's the end of America as we know it...

2009-04-02T04:47:00.001-04:00

...and I (don't) feel fine!

So the posts on here have been on a political roll lately, and here goes another one.

And freedom of speech and expression aren't looking at so bright a future, either. Associated Press ran an article about police in Missouri that have decided to include non-Obama bumper stickers as one trigger for recognizing domestic terrorists. Citing "third party supporters" and possession of "subversive material" (you know, like political documentaries on DVD and other similar items) as indicators of possible involvement or alliance with terrorism. All this was part of a recent course to educate local law enforcement about the latest trends so they can know who to pull over and search. I don't do bumper stickers - I hate destroying the paint job on my car - but if I did, and I had Ron Paul back there, does that mean I should be pulled over and treated as a suspected terrorist?

Right after 9/11 when ALL the known terrorists had been identified as middle-eastern men of a certain age, airport security and everyone else made a very big deal about NOT succumbing to racial (or any other kind of) profiling. So, the freedom to be treated like a suspect got spread around equally between blonde and blue-eyed college chicks, ancient and decrepit grandmothers, young asian and black families just trying to get on the plane without having their babies milk bottles confiscated - and everybody else.

Now I'm not saying that anyone should have necessarily gone and made the airport a living hell for every middle-eastern-looking traveler. But let's think clearly here. America (in general) bent over backwards to maintain an appearance of civility toward everyone who looked a whole lot like the people who'd just blown up the twin towers... but now any Joe Bloe with an Independent party bumper sticker is under suspicion of terrorism?

That's a dangerous recipe for cops with itchy trigger fingers and innocent families driving through Missouri on vacation... I'm afraid somebody's gonna end up getting hurt.

And just a few links for your perusing enjoyment:
http://redgreenandblue.org/2009/03/23/hr-1388-give-act-forces-mandatory-service-requirement-on-all-young-americans/

http://www.worldnetdaily.com/index.php?fa=PAGE.view&pageId=92288

http://www.e3gazette.com/2009/03/hr-1388-is-arbeit-macht-frei-too-strong.html

HR1388 and the communist mentality...

2009-04-01T04:11:00.000-04:00

Most Americans don't really get Communism. We're so fully capitalist, in our souls, that we can't fathom the idea of effacing ourselves for the "good of the organization".

And as a result, when our government comes up with brilliant ideas like, say, HR1388 (the bill passed by Senate last week), we're so unfamiliar with socialist principles or the foundation of what leads to Communist control, that a vast number in our nation just sit back and swallow the pretty propaganda whole.

It takes someone who's lived under Communism to look at things and say - "this sounds suspiciously like what I risked my life to escape from" or "emigrated to America to avoid".

My husband was born and raised under Communism. He was beaten in school for skipping one day of the 6-day school week to attend church. His uncle desperately tried to get extra milk rations from his job at the dairy collective so my husband and the cousins could have more nourishment than provided by the ration cards.

All our extended family on my husband's side tell of living in Communist oppression. Whether stories of religious persecution or mere daily survival - the tales are grim.

When my husband and I look together at the current trends of government (i.e. increasing financial control of private business, bills like HR1388 and their potential for turning the American tradition of volunteering into mandated slave labor on all age levels, etc) we shake our heads in concern.

The phrases, slogans and foundational propaganda remind him clearly of his childhood experiences. And we wonder - is anyone really listening? Is anyone paying attention to the undertones?

Or are we all just blindly trusting, looking to the government for our salvation? As one bumper-sticker reads: I've already got a Messiah, I just want a President.

HR 1388 and the history we'd rather forget...

2009-03-31T15:04:00.004-04:00

For years, World War II has been my favorite historical period. Communist Russia and China runs a close second. I love the adventure of true life heroes who risked everything to save the Jews, to smuggle Bibles, to preach the gospel.

Sure, there have been other historical periods with as much or more drama. But maybe these draw me because they are still so recent. So raw in our world's memory. So fresh in the context of earth's ancient past.

So when I look around me and see things happening daily in our current government, it gives me a reason to pause and ask why these sound chillingly familiar.

Oh, that's right - because it's so similar to the history we'd rather forget. Except, it seems that the majority of America already has forgotten. We've dismissed the events that came before the unpleasant history we've blotted out. The trends preceding genocide across Europe, the tens of millions starved imprisoned throughout the Soviet Union, the brutal interrogation of millions of innocent Chinese...

The Cold War is so far gone from our memories, we're actively embracing the political precursors that shaped the countries once trapped behind the Iron Curtain.

Don't know what I'm talking about? Try:

an unprecedented governmental focus on the importance of wholesome community
a dominant focus on engaging the youth in idealistic service/volunteerism/training
removing youth from their families for the purpose of work or training for mandatory periods of time
justifying governmental actions on the pretext of "protecting the country" from terrorism
packaging governmental interventions under the pretext of "increasing morality & values"
blending governmental youth organizations with the educational system
use of uniforms and other militaristic trappings/terms/accessories/structures

Still confused?
Here's an insightful phrase by phrase analysis of some of the wording in HR1388. Give this a quick read: "Is Arbeit Macht Frei too strong?".

The thing is, most good Germans went right along with it. They knew community was important. They wanted their kids to learn to work hard and serve their country. And any warning signs that it wasn't all peaches under the surface went largely unheeded. A few spoke out, and a few moved away. But most just ended up horrified and humiliated when all the truth came out. And if they'd just paid closer attention they might have clued in to the sinister undercurrents.

Okay, so HR1388 isn't quite there yet. But can you imagine any American administration lunging straight for it? Of course not. And many of the words and phrases written into HR1388 lay a frightening foundation reminiscent of early Hitler Youth and Communist Red activities. It's all for the good of the country, taking kids away from parents into government run 'campuses' where they receive training on any number of things while prohibited from worshiping or expressing freedom of speech through political protest of any kind. Right?

History just has this nasty little way of repeating itself. And we're maybe just arrogant enough to think that we are above all possibility of making the mistakes we disdain in the histories of other countries. But isn't it that arrogance itself that makes us most vulnerable?

And for those who think I just invented the bullet list above, feel free to click on links within the Encyclopedia of Children and Childhood in History & Society:
Communist Youth
Hitler Youth

HR 1388...

2009-03-30T14:39:00.002-04:00

This morning my sister linked me to some news articles about the recent HR 1388 bill. (Voted by Senate on 26 March, currently waiting for Presidential approval before becoming law.)

HR 1388 is essentially a bill instituting a multi-billion dollar program to provide volunteer community service and a variety of trainings (disaster relief, etc) to American civilians of all ages. Sounds really peachy right? 'Cause we definitely do lack a defining sense of loyalty to our communities, compassion for the hurting, and eager altruism. It's true.

But do we want it so badly that we're willing to let the government design the program?

HR 1388 has some severely disturbing language, including apparent prohibition of all religious activity or freedom of speech while serving as a "volunteer":

(a) PROHIBITED ACTIVITIES.—A participant in an approved national service position under this subtitle may not engage in the following activities:
(1) Attempting to influence legislation.
(2) Organizing or engaging in protests, petitions, boycotts, or strikes.
(3) Assisting, promoting, or deterring union organizing.
(4) Impairing existing contracts for services or collective bargaining agreements.
(5) Engaging in partisan political activities, or other activities designed to influence the outcome of an election to any public office.
(6) Participating in, or endorsing, events or activities that are likely to include advocacy for or against political parties, political platforms, political candidates, proposed legislation, or elected officials.
(7) Engaging in religious instruction, conducting worship services, providing instruction as part of a program that includes mandatory religious instruction or worship, constructing or operating facilities devoted to religious instruction or worship, maintaining facilities primarily or inherently devoted to religious instruction or worship, or engaging in any form of religious proselytization.

Now some of my friends insist that this means you can't do things things as your "volunteer" work. They say it's great, since it's keeping church and state separate. If that's truly accurate, then YAY. But I'm looking right at the bill, and I don't see it specifying that clearly.

All it says is: "A participant in an approved national service position under this subtitle may not engage in the following activities:..." Which leaves lots of wiggle room. For limiting the religious freedoms of every single participant's private life. For telling young people: If you want a scholarship you have to participate, but you can't do these prohibited things while you're a volunteer...

Personally, I like my religious freedom. It's one reason I'm glad I live in the good old USA. But I'm a little concerned over the direction this is taking. It smacks of a few periods in history that most of us would prefer to forget.

More about that in the next post...

silence no longer...

2009-03-30T14:25:00.003-04:00

This is my first-ever post that will be tagged "politics". For months I've kept my mouth shut as friends and relatives banter or debate their respective opinions about the current state of affairs in our government.

I'm done.

If all y'all have a right to your opinions, well, I guess I do too. And let me remind those of you who hotly disagree with me - I haven't loved you any less over the past months or years as you've expressed your views. So here's hoping that you won't disown me for finally expressing mine.

First-off, I'd like to say that - despite my soon-to-be-explained-in-detail opinion that Obama is on a head-long rush to destroy the last shreds of American freedom - it is his policies that I cannot condone. I have no issue with him as a man. Or as a black man. From the racial perspective I think it's great to have a black president. I just don't think Obama was the right guy.

For that matter, I'd have been equally happy to see a female president. But I wasn't convinced that either Hillary or Palin were worth my vote. However, I'd have voted for Condoleeza Rice in an instant - and largely because she never went squealing to the media about how her race OR her gender either aided or impeded her position. She just did her job.

I'm not a Republican. You've probably guessed that I'm no Democrat either. I'd probably fall somewhere in the Independent category if you had to put me in a box.

So I want to get it straight right off - if you disagree with my political views, that's okay with me. I'm not here to be an expert, just to comment on my observations and share my opinions. But don't go mistaking my abhorrence of certain political agendas as racism or any other irrational and unChristian bias. Cause that's not what it's about.

Let's get this party started...

and a bit of reading...

2009-03-25T14:55:00.002-04:00

It's amazing what feelings the news of Baby Asaftei's impending arrival has brought. It's humbling, inspiring and terrifying all at once.

Some people have commented about how my pre- and post-baby parenting concepts are determined to go through big changes. And I'm sure that many of them will... :) But some things in this process so far have actually strengthened how I feel about the importance of Christian family in today's world.

My husband and I have been reading each morning and evening from the very insightful book Child Guidance, for our devotion time together. The author emphasises what an incredible responsibility it is to be God-following parents in a society that often ridicules the divine. And how vital it is for parents to truly love their kids, with oodles of healthy affection and affirmation. And how it's so necessary for parents to foster outstanding character at home.

I really think that too many otherwise smart adult Christians really lose out on the joy and beauty of crafting a family with purpose for the glory of God and for building great citizens for future generations.

Last year we attended the Family Vision Workshop, by Gregg Gunn and Mark Naylor. It pointed us the same direction as the book we're reading now - reminding us that outstanding families that love God and live in harmony don't just happen, they're purposefully and painstakingly crafted.

What a responsibility and journey...

a bit of prenatal news...

2009-03-24T14:46:00.003-04:00

So for all of you who have been anxiously awaiting the next post... yeah yeah, I'm sure you've been holding your breath!

But anyway, I've been incognito for a good reason. Since we returned from Romania we have discovered that we are expecting the first grandchild on both the Asaftei and Matthews sides of the family.

Our families have breathed a collective sigh of relief that the next generation is no longer an endangered species from our family branch of the tree. :)

Right now, I'm just fighting through the 24-hour-a-day nausea, and constant exhaustion. They tell me it gets better sometime soon - but nobody seems to know just when that will be!

And in answer to the clamor of questions - yes, we have a potential list of names. No, we don't want the gender to be a surprise. And it's supposed to be a late-October/early-November arrival. Just in time for a nice hot, sticky summer-in-Georgia pregnancy! Whoopee! (J/K)

Hip-T giveaway

2009-03-19T10:07:00.004-04:00

So I stumbled across this very cool website called "Frugal Mommy of 2 Girls", where there are all kinds of yummy giveaways.

I'm entering for the Hip-T giveaway - cause I love my low-rise jeans, but hate flashing my waistline to the world. Here's hoping I win! :)

Go to the website and see what you want to enter for!

Wishing your evangelism was more effective in today’s culture?

2009-03-18T11:23:00.008-04:00

by Sarah K. Asaftei
Associate Director, Center for Secular & Postmodern Studies the General Conference Office of Adventist Mission

Ever feel like something’s missing in your evangelistic strategy? People seem uninterested in church, even while calling themselves “spiritual”? New members join but don’t stay for long?

Ever wish you could put your finger on what is so different about this generation, and find a way to evangelize that actually brought long-lasting results? It might not be so hard as you think!

In contrast to past generations, today’s culture places a much higher value on relationships than facts. To the postmodern, relationship equals personal experience equals truth. This presents a challenge to evangelism’s traditional fact-based proof-text approach. But it is where the genuine Adventist Christian’s biblical lifestyle is vitally important. The era of simply presenting truth as a series of logical Bible texts is waning. If your “truth” doesn’t show up in your life, then postmoderns don’t want to hear about it. If they can’t see how you are different because of your “truth”, your message comes across as worthless.

This leads to three foundational principles of effective evangelism in today’s society: friendship, process, and nurture.

friendship
The postmodern value placed on relationship translates into a deep need for narrative evangelism. Your story of how God has transformed your life is your unique personal narrative.

Friendship is a core biblical value. Jesus spent three and a half years with the disciples, training and encouraging them, eating and traveling together. They belonged in His inner circle and felt welcomed by Him, even before they fully believed that He was the Messiah.

Jesus taught this principle to others as well. In Mark 5:19 He told the just-healed demoniac to “go home to your friends and tell them how much the Lord has done for you.” (ESV) Not, go home and preach, but go home and tell your story.

Of course, this presumes that each Christian actually has a story to tell. Often the incapacity to tell our story is rooted in the dismal fact that we ourselves have experienced no transformation. When we have no story to share we must rely solely on external proof texts and logic. But when Jesus has renovated our identity in a journey of experience – then we can’t help sharing. It is this personal story that most powerfully affects today’s postmodern.

process
The idea of process introduces a dramatic shift in the way Adventists understand evangelism, returning us to the way of the early apostolic church. Evangelism is not merely a yearly calendar of prophecy seminars, tent meetings, baptismal studies and the occasional health workshop.

Evangelism is so much more. It is the act of helping a neighbor carry heavy boxes, or remaining patient when the grocery clerk has made three mistakes on your purchase. It is being visibly different because Jesus has transformed you into someone more like him. More caring. More self-disciplined. More health-conscious. More green. More sensitive to how others feel. More unashamedly spiritual. More honest and filled with integrity.

Every aspect of life is evangelism. You cannot give offering toward prophecy seminar expenses and sigh with relief that you are have done your evangelistic duty until next year. For Adventists, it is “a paradigm shift to view evangelism as dialogue instead of monologue, moving from compelling proof to compelling stories,” Miroslav Pujic, director of the Centre for Secular & Postmodern Studies at the General Conference Office of Adventist Mission. “It creates a shift from ‘Come and see’ to ‘Go and be’.”

nurture
Nurture means the process doesn’t finish at baptism. Instead, the journey leads to the next steps of developing spiritual formation, practicing Christian lifestyle, and becoming equipped to serve others. This keeps the evangelistic cycle going, instead of enabling a congregation full of spiritual infants.

But, while it’s nice to read a brief article about these challenges – you might want more. The Centre for Secular & Postmodern Studies—CSPS at the General Conference Adventist Mission Office is dedicated to providing biblical evangelistic tools to help you share Jesus more effectively (see www.reframe.info/ for a library of resources).

CSPS distributes the LIFEdevelopment discipleship pathway materials, and also offers RE:FRAME training events around the world. RE:FRAME events will help you understand:
- the incredible shifts in how people think today
- how those shifts affect patterns of evangelism
- how you can connect better with the people around you
- and how to formulate a workable evangelism plan for your home church.

RE:FRAME is coming to Atlanta, GA on May 15-17, 2009, hosted by the Marietta Adventist Church. Pastors, members, students, teachers, and parents are all encouraged to attend. Register online or find more information at: http://www.reframe.info/events/342/.

latest excitement...

2009-03-18T10:21:00.004-04:00

(This is an article I recently wrote for the church news across Georgia.)

Marietta's Newest Members

One year ago, Anthony and April Brantley walked into a Seventh-day Adventist church for the first time. Each of them had received the exact same Sabbath school quarterly and bible study sample – from two different bosses, at two different companies, within the same week.

Realizing that this couldn’t be a coincidence, they read the materials together. Intrigued, they started studying their Bibles to find out more. April had been raised in a Christian home, but for Anthony it was a totally new experience.

As they studied, they began looking for a Sabbath-keeping church. Not long after, we met them in the lobby of the Marietta Adventist Church. For the next year, they attended church regularly, excitedly expressing their desire to learn more.

April began to serve as a member of Marietta Women’s Ministries. Anthony was thrilled to learn that he could contribute by joining the audio-visual team, and is now in the process of learning how to give bible studies to others through the church’s Outreach department.

“I’d been praying that God would bring those who wanted to learn about Him, and the Brantleys are just one example of several people who have walked into Marietta and asked for bible studies,” says Pastor Asaftei. “Right now we’re studying with eight more people and I’m delighted to mentor Anthony into giving bible studies as well!”

On February 21, 2009, after completing a full series of preparation studies with Pastor Marius Asaftei, April and Anthony publicly expressed their commitment to follow Jesus. Anthony was baptized and April received a profession of faith, becoming the newest members of the Marietta church family.

By Sarah Asaftei.

and on to Romania (part 2)

2009-03-17T15:32:00.004-04:00

A big reason for our trip was to see Marius's aging paternal grandfather. At 96, he's pretty impressive! When he was 28 years old, while serving in the Romanian Army, he and 11,000 other soldiers were captured as a prisoner of war by the Russians. They were forced to walk hundreds of miles, without adequate food/water/clothing and often being strafed by enemy aircraft. Then he was a slave laborer in a Siberian prison camp - for SEVEN years.

His wife received an MIA letter from the army, and resigned herself to raising their two small children alone. When he was released, it took him 2 months to walk from his dropoff point to his home in early winter - wearing nothing but a thin prison uniform and without shoes. They went on to have three more children after his return, and raised them together as faithful Adventist Christians on the family farm where my husband lived as a child.

I think he must have been a good-looking guy in his prime, whatcha think?
Here's Tanti Geta, her husband Sorin, and their son Vlad. This is the younger sister of Marius's mom.

Then we went to visit the maternal side of the family. This is (L>R) Daniela, me, and Danutsa, her daughter. She's married to Rica, below.
L>R: Aurash, Rica, Marius - Rica is the brother of Marius's mom. They live on another family farm, further northeast, on the same property as Marius's maternal grandparents.

Marius's maternal grandmother.

Marius and the grandparents...

The outbuilding in the front yard...

Pretty spring patchwork fields on the way to Suceava.

After visiting the family, we went to Suceava to spend two days visiting ancient monasteries. Except that Marius got a nasty case of flu, complete with fever of 103 or so, ear infection, and severe congestion. So we never left the hotel or saw any monasteries, and the 8-hour drive back to Bucharest 2 days later was pretty miserable.

As was the trip back home - the string of flights that would not end. I've never been quite so thankful or happy to get home!

and on to Romania (part 1)

2009-03-17T14:51:00.005-04:00

After my annual team meetings in the UK, we went to Romania for a few days to visit family that I hadn't seen for 5 years. Marius went back alone two years ago.

Pastor Mugurel Asaftei, and his beautiful wife Rodica. Mugurel and my husband are first cousins. He pastors 5 churches and lives in Bucharest.

An Asaftei family photo. BACK L>R: Ionut (Simona's husband), Victor (Alina's bf), Tanti Lina (sister to Marius's father), Elia (Lina's husband), Tanti Geta (another paternal sister), Tanti Maria (the oldest paternal sister), Ioan (Maria's husband), FRONT L>R: Simona (Geta's daughter), Alina (Geta's daughter), Doru (Geta's husband), Marius

Ionut and Simona

Alina & Viktor

Marius with Tanti Maria and her husband.

Marius in his old primary school (Onesti, School No 5), admiring the wall murals.

The Bogdanesti Adventist Church.

Marius and Elia in the snow, on a birch bridge.

Elia and Tanti Lina in the family farmhouse.