Here's an excerpt from an article from www.mercola.com, written by Dr. Mercola. I share his desire to encourage people to take control of their health. For me, personally--not that health is a measure of faith--but, I want to "toughen my body with punches and make it my slave so that I will not be disqualified after I have spread the Good News to others (1 Corinthians 9:27)." I don't want God to say, "Jason, you sure could have done a lot more good if you hadn't been so out-of-shape, out-of-energy, and out-to-lunch." Instead of focusing on looking or feeling better, though, I think it is about letting God work on us. I suppose this is an unpopular dream these days, to connect faith with matter . . . alas, here it is:
What’s Fat Got to Do With It?
Contrary to the popular belief that fat cells should be banished, they are an active and intelligent part of your body, producing hormones that impact your brain, liver, immune system and even your ability to reproduce.
What’s more, the hormones your fat cells produce impact how much you eat and how much fat you burn.
One of these hormones is leptin, which sends signals that reduce hunger, increase fat burning and reduce fat storage.
That is, if your cells are communicating properly and can “hear” this message.
If you eat a diet that is high in sugar and grains, the sugar gets metabolized to fat (and is stored as fat in your fat cells), which in turn releases surges in leptin. Over time, if your body is exposed to too much leptin, it will become resistant to it (just as your body can become resistant to insulin).
And when you become leptin-resistant, your body can no longer hear the messages telling it to stop eating and burn fat -- so it remains hungry and stores more fat.
Leptin-resistance also causes an increase in visceral fat, sending you on a vicious cycle of hunger, fat storage and an increased risk of heart disease, diabetes, metabolic syndrome and more.
As Sadaf Shadan states in Nature, there are two contributing factors to an increase in fat mass: the number of fat cells, and how much fat each of them stores (their volume).
So essentially, you can have fewer fat cells and still be overweight because each cell is “maxed out,” if you will, or alternatively, you can have more fat cells overall and be at an ideal weight simply because your fat cells are functioning properly and not storing excess fat.
Either way, you’re in control here.
What do you think?
24 May 2008
17 May 2008
The Foot, Her Father's Music Gig, and Friends
Here is our daughter's foot--how flexible is that!
And this is how she likes to stick her foot in her mouth, but believe me--she doesn't get it from me!
Wailin' with Daddy . . . at Starbucks thanks to Rusty and his boss, Priscilla . . .
We had some out-of-control guests . . .
. . . but, they were soothed by the music, I guess . . .
These are my number-one fans--I couldn't have better supporters! We made $38 in "Whaley Homemade" CD sales.
Several weeks after Daddy's gig, we had some Aussie visitors . . . Their daughter went through high school with Nicole. John and Sandy have been driving across America, especially trying to stay on Route 66, which is easier said than done.
And this is how she likes to stick her foot in her mouth, but believe me--she doesn't get it from me!
Wailin' with Daddy . . . at Starbucks thanks to Rusty and his boss, Priscilla . . .
We had some out-of-control guests . . .
. . . but, they were soothed by the music, I guess . . .
These are my number-one fans--I couldn't have better supporters! We made $38 in "Whaley Homemade" CD sales.
Several weeks after Daddy's gig, we had some Aussie visitors . . . Their daughter went through high school with Nicole. John and Sandy have been driving across America, especially trying to stay on Route 66, which is easier said than done.
10 May 2008
The Pattern of Salvation
What will help you see the faith-feelings that the Spirit produces?
What I mean by faith-feelings are things like:
love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.
Really, though, these are not only feelings, but activities. Galatians 5:22 says these are the character traits that the holy spirit produces. So how can we grow a garden of these feelings? Raise a harvest of those activities?
I would say,
1. Open your eyes. Every resource in the universe is at God's fingertips and He's generous beyond measure. The earth produces more than enough food for all its inhabitants. The problem of starvation and extinction is a symptom of our broken relationship with God (Hosea 4:1-3). If you can't see God's ability and willingness to pour out more than enough love for the taking, chances are you are squinting untrustingly at the world around you. Open your eyes to God's matchless gift-giving. (Matthew 5:45; 6:22)
2. Suffer. Perhaps your brothers sold you to slave traders. Perhaps your coworkers belittle you in front of clients. Perhaps you've been emotionally abused by your closest friend. Be willing to be persecuted for crimes you did not commit and of course for ones that you did commit. Perhaps you would be willing to die for a good person. Be willing to die for people who are not good. Pray for their forgiveness and your own while they mock you. (Romans 5:1-11)
3. Endure. Suffering usually lasts longer than it's ever lasted before. Just like high school is harder than elementary school. You don't have to do 12th grade all in your first year of school. You just have to last about 12 years. In my first half-marathon race, I had never run more than nine or ten miles on one day before, but that day I ran past the tenth mile marker and kept going--even sped up until the end of the race at 13.1 miles. Run the race marked out for you with perseverance. (Hebrews 12:1-4)
4. Become the character God created you to be. You don't choose your overall character. You receive little prompts along the way--usually from off stage. When you've forgotten your lines, remember, you can use the Bible. It has lots of examples of improvisation guided by Christ's love and spiritual conviction. Like gravity bringing rain to the earth and the sun calling the garden upward, you receive God's character patiently, yet with vibrance. Our part in God's story cannot be proof-texted, only life-tested. (Luke 4:1-13)
5. Confidently hope. You know that after Jesus died, he was raised. He suffered and endured to the point of death. He became the Character God intended for all of us to become. He is our second chance to become that character or at least to become of that Character. After he had learned obedience through outwardly dying and wasting away, God resurrected him outwardly just like he had been doing inwardly day by day. We don't dwell on dying and this "cruel, cruel world" that seems to hate us. We eventually get to the point that we trust God to bring new eternal life from something destroyed by death--even a new city from the ashes of the one we destroyed! (2 Corinthians 4:16-18; Revelation 21)
I think this is sort of an order of salvation. I pray our thoughts, feelings, and bodies will be renewed by this kind of pattern. :-)
What I mean by faith-feelings are things like:
love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.
Really, though, these are not only feelings, but activities. Galatians 5:22 says these are the character traits that the holy spirit produces. So how can we grow a garden of these feelings? Raise a harvest of those activities?
I would say,
1. Open your eyes. Every resource in the universe is at God's fingertips and He's generous beyond measure. The earth produces more than enough food for all its inhabitants. The problem of starvation and extinction is a symptom of our broken relationship with God (Hosea 4:1-3). If you can't see God's ability and willingness to pour out more than enough love for the taking, chances are you are squinting untrustingly at the world around you. Open your eyes to God's matchless gift-giving. (Matthew 5:45; 6:22)
2. Suffer. Perhaps your brothers sold you to slave traders. Perhaps your coworkers belittle you in front of clients. Perhaps you've been emotionally abused by your closest friend. Be willing to be persecuted for crimes you did not commit and of course for ones that you did commit. Perhaps you would be willing to die for a good person. Be willing to die for people who are not good. Pray for their forgiveness and your own while they mock you. (Romans 5:1-11)
3. Endure. Suffering usually lasts longer than it's ever lasted before. Just like high school is harder than elementary school. You don't have to do 12th grade all in your first year of school. You just have to last about 12 years. In my first half-marathon race, I had never run more than nine or ten miles on one day before, but that day I ran past the tenth mile marker and kept going--even sped up until the end of the race at 13.1 miles. Run the race marked out for you with perseverance. (Hebrews 12:1-4)
4. Become the character God created you to be. You don't choose your overall character. You receive little prompts along the way--usually from off stage. When you've forgotten your lines, remember, you can use the Bible. It has lots of examples of improvisation guided by Christ's love and spiritual conviction. Like gravity bringing rain to the earth and the sun calling the garden upward, you receive God's character patiently, yet with vibrance. Our part in God's story cannot be proof-texted, only life-tested. (Luke 4:1-13)
5. Confidently hope. You know that after Jesus died, he was raised. He suffered and endured to the point of death. He became the Character God intended for all of us to become. He is our second chance to become that character or at least to become of that Character. After he had learned obedience through outwardly dying and wasting away, God resurrected him outwardly just like he had been doing inwardly day by day. We don't dwell on dying and this "cruel, cruel world" that seems to hate us. We eventually get to the point that we trust God to bring new eternal life from something destroyed by death--even a new city from the ashes of the one we destroyed! (2 Corinthians 4:16-18; Revelation 21)
I think this is sort of an order of salvation. I pray our thoughts, feelings, and bodies will be renewed by this kind of pattern. :-)
04 May 2008
Ben Seriously Folds Five
I went to Memphis in May Friday night with good friends, Justin Lewis, Jacob and Lisa Parnell. We were most looking forward to seeing Ben Folds perform, but it rained on and on so they had to keep Ben's piano under plastic tarps (as well as the rest of the stage). It was disappointing not to see Ben. We did catch the last song performance of Joan Jett and the Blackhearts playing the Sly & Family Stone classic, "I Am Everyday People". It was really good. I was impressed with how youthful and energetic Joan was, and of course her lead guitarist who seemed to be in his twenties. After standing in the rain and mud puddles waiting for Ben to play between 9 and 10:30, they packed his piano up in a big box and we headed over to another stage for Sheryl Crow's performance. We caught Johnny Lang's last song there. He was playing guitar like crazy, but you could hardly hear it over the--BASS! I just almost hate whoever was responsible for the sound. Good grief! I realize God created that person, but who on earth are they trying to appeal to? The people who drive around in the bass-mobiles? All you can hear is low vibrations pounding into your chest. As far as I know, most people don't have those kinds of stereos. I have no intention of marginalizing those people from society, but . . . Okay, enough of a rant . . .
The same sound person was in charge of the music playing between the artists' live performance unfortunately. But, suddenly, the rain stopped/slowed long enough for Sheryl Crow and her band to come out and perform. We noticed her friends/family getting back/side stage to enjoy the show from beneath the shelter of plastic tarp. There just wasn't enough tarp to go around, but I'm not complaining about that, just the ridiculously loud level of the bass. Anyway, Sheryl did great. She started with "Shine Over Babylon", which I really like. All the other songs were great, too, but I don't particularly care for the song, "The First Cut is the Deepest," by Cat Stevens, which she covered. Anyway, I felt like I had to watch a couple of Ben Folds performances to make up for missing him Friday night. So I embedded youtubes of Ben playing probably my favorite one of his that I've heard, "Underground". As a side note, an acapella choir from York University performed a version of this song.
Here's another video of the song "Philosophy":
The same sound person was in charge of the music playing between the artists' live performance unfortunately. But, suddenly, the rain stopped/slowed long enough for Sheryl Crow and her band to come out and perform. We noticed her friends/family getting back/side stage to enjoy the show from beneath the shelter of plastic tarp. There just wasn't enough tarp to go around, but I'm not complaining about that, just the ridiculously loud level of the bass. Anyway, Sheryl did great. She started with "Shine Over Babylon", which I really like. All the other songs were great, too, but I don't particularly care for the song, "The First Cut is the Deepest," by Cat Stevens, which she covered. Anyway, I felt like I had to watch a couple of Ben Folds performances to make up for missing him Friday night. So I embedded youtubes of Ben playing probably my favorite one of his that I've heard, "Underground". As a side note, an acapella choir from York University performed a version of this song.
Here's another video of the song "Philosophy":
01 May 2008
Time: What the World Eats
Click on the title of this blog for a compelling photo gallery of "What the world Eats". See how much processed food some families have compared to others? Consider cost difference between those who buy unprocessed and boxes packages.
I've been saying it for about a year now. We need to convert our food industry paradigm to one that recognizes the inherent ability of the earth to produce food. Of course it would be a challenging and long-term shift, but presently, multi-national biotech companies are determined to genetically modify and patent every seed so that we get more (supposedly) of less variety (certainly), taking millions of food varieties that the earth produces naturally and abundantly. They are winnowing the myriad of plant varieties down to a single line of corn, a single line of soybean, etc., patenting them.
This leads grocery buyers to eating less variety. We it processed corn products. We sweeten our other foods with corn syrup. We feed the meat and eggs we eat with corn. But, can humans live well solely based on between one and four actual foods?
People like me have a choice with regard to food. We can seek knowledge and mostly reliable information. But what about people from lower and middle classes in america and other western countries? They're mostly eating out of plastic bags and packages. Everything they eat seems cheap because it has so little actual food leftover from the processing. And can it even be considered cheap when so many health problems are unavoidable?
Can anything be done, though?
1. Eat a wide variety of fresh foods. Enjoy the earth's abundant biodiversity in your body, mind, and soul. Be nourished!
2. Avoid processed foods. They will only make you hungry, sleepy, and depressed.
3. Plant as many unadulterated seeds as you can. Grow gardens amazingly!
Look at my friend, Corey's, okra from last summer!
Corey planted this okra in--believe me--not the best soil. There were bicycle parts in it, pieces of rubber, etc. He basically took about a wheelbarrow-full of dirt out so it wasn't so packed in. The soil swell out to fill the rest of the space on its own. Then, he broadcast seed over it--no rows. Then, he scattered a bag of organic top soil over the top of the seeds. He planted marigolds on each corner around the okra and other crops--insect predators are marigold-averse. Corey never fertilized. He merely watered and picked off a few bugs in the evenings. And I've never seen more productive and strong okra plants. It got even taller than what you see--he had to stand on a chair and reach way above his head to pick it. GENETICALLY MODIFY THAT!
But, you're wondering, "How can we do this bio-intensive farming on a grand scale? For those who don't want to grow their own?" If agricultural companies own the seed, they can afford to transport food from the money they make on seed sales and sprays and fertilizers. They can maintain low prices, right?
My answer: I don't know how to make the shift from industrialized food monocultures to all human beings having local access to exuberant varieties. But there are those who have been thinking about this and researching and experimenting for many years.
4. Search "biointensive", "John Jeavons", "Ecology Action", "Southside Community Land Trust". Also, here is a good article on What a fossil-fuel free agriculture might look like: http://gristmill.grist.org/story/2007/12/5/184641/855. And definitely read about the Land Institute: http://www.landinstitute.org/. Finally, give some money to Healing Hands International, http://www.hhi.org/.
I've been saying it for about a year now. We need to convert our food industry paradigm to one that recognizes the inherent ability of the earth to produce food. Of course it would be a challenging and long-term shift, but presently, multi-national biotech companies are determined to genetically modify and patent every seed so that we get more (supposedly) of less variety (certainly), taking millions of food varieties that the earth produces naturally and abundantly. They are winnowing the myriad of plant varieties down to a single line of corn, a single line of soybean, etc., patenting them.
This leads grocery buyers to eating less variety. We it processed corn products. We sweeten our other foods with corn syrup. We feed the meat and eggs we eat with corn. But, can humans live well solely based on between one and four actual foods?
People like me have a choice with regard to food. We can seek knowledge and mostly reliable information. But what about people from lower and middle classes in america and other western countries? They're mostly eating out of plastic bags and packages. Everything they eat seems cheap because it has so little actual food leftover from the processing. And can it even be considered cheap when so many health problems are unavoidable?
Can anything be done, though?
1. Eat a wide variety of fresh foods. Enjoy the earth's abundant biodiversity in your body, mind, and soul. Be nourished!
2. Avoid processed foods. They will only make you hungry, sleepy, and depressed.
3. Plant as many unadulterated seeds as you can. Grow gardens amazingly!
Look at my friend, Corey's, okra from last summer!
Corey planted this okra in--believe me--not the best soil. There were bicycle parts in it, pieces of rubber, etc. He basically took about a wheelbarrow-full of dirt out so it wasn't so packed in. The soil swell out to fill the rest of the space on its own. Then, he broadcast seed over it--no rows. Then, he scattered a bag of organic top soil over the top of the seeds. He planted marigolds on each corner around the okra and other crops--insect predators are marigold-averse. Corey never fertilized. He merely watered and picked off a few bugs in the evenings. And I've never seen more productive and strong okra plants. It got even taller than what you see--he had to stand on a chair and reach way above his head to pick it. GENETICALLY MODIFY THAT!
But, you're wondering, "How can we do this bio-intensive farming on a grand scale? For those who don't want to grow their own?" If agricultural companies own the seed, they can afford to transport food from the money they make on seed sales and sprays and fertilizers. They can maintain low prices, right?
My answer: I don't know how to make the shift from industrialized food monocultures to all human beings having local access to exuberant varieties. But there are those who have been thinking about this and researching and experimenting for many years.
4. Search "biointensive", "John Jeavons", "Ecology Action", "Southside Community Land Trust". Also, here is a good article on What a fossil-fuel free agriculture might look like: http://gristmill.grist.org/story/2007/12/5/184641/855. And definitely read about the Land Institute: http://www.landinstitute.org/. Finally, give some money to Healing Hands International, http://www.hhi.org/.
29 April 2008
Ticker
This is where we're at in fundraising. Many people have expressed a desire to give to the Aussie Mission. One of the ways they can give is to make a monthly commitment to provide for living expenses. This makes sure we stay in Australia to share the story of God and our lives. If you want to give, here is the address of our commissioning church whose elders and members oversee us spiritually. We've asked them to keep us accountable, not just for our finances, but that's definitely key.
Any financial gifts can now be sent to our new account that has been set up at the Round Rock church of Christ. Below are the church contact details. Please contact Gail if you would like to make direct deposits. All financial contributions are tax-deductible so make checks out to the Round Rock church of Christ. Please include “Aussie Mission” in the memo field.
Round Rock church of Christ
1200 N Georgetown Street
Round Rock, TX 78664
Phone (512) 255-5331
Contact: Tim Hunter (Elder of missions) or Gail (church secretary)
By June 1st 2008, we will relocate to the Austin area to better invest ourselves with the brothers and sisters at Round Rock. We anticipate spending four months serving together, serving God in their community and getting to know the family there, before heading Down Under. If you want to keep in touch with us, check out www.aussiemission.com. We have monthly newsletters you can download from August 2007 on, only skipping the month of January so far.
09 April 2008
Victim Treats His Mugger Right
Click on the title link above to listen (about 3 minutes) or read the article below:
Morning Edition, March 28, 2008 · Julio Diaz has a daily routine. Every night, the 31-year-old social worker ends his hour-long subway commute to the Bronx one stop early, just so he can eat at his favorite diner.
But one night last month, as Diaz stepped off the No. 6 train and onto a nearly empty platform, his evening took an unexpected turn.
He was walking toward the stairs when a teenage boy approached and pulled out a knife.
"He wants my money, so I just gave him my wallet and told him, 'Here you go,'" Diaz says.
As the teen began to walk away, Diaz told him, "Hey, wait a minute. You forgot something. If you're going to be robbing people for the rest of the night, you might as well take my coat to keep you warm."
The would-be robber looked at his would-be victim, "like what's going on here?" Diaz says. "He asked me, 'Why are you doing this?'"
Diaz replied: "If you're willing to risk your freedom for a few dollars, then I guess you must really need the money. I mean, all I wanted to do was get dinner and if you really want to join me ... hey, you're more than welcome.
"You know, I just felt maybe he really needs help," Diaz says.
Diaz says he and the teen went into the diner and sat in a booth.
"The manager comes by, the dishwashers come by, the waiters come by to say hi," Diaz says. "The kid was like, 'You know everybody here. Do you own this place?'"
"No, I just eat here a lot," Diaz says he told the teen. "He says, 'But you're even nice to the dishwasher.'"
Diaz replied, "Well, haven't you been taught you should be nice to everybody?"
"Yea, but I didn't think people actually behaved that way," the teen said.
Diaz asked him what he wanted out of life. "He just had almost a sad face," Diaz says.
The teen couldn't answer Diaz — or he didn't want to.
When the bill arrived, Diaz told the teen, "Look, I guess you're going to have to pay for this bill 'cause you have my money and I can't pay for this. So if you give me my wallet back, I'll gladly treat you."
The teen "didn't even think about it" and returned the wallet, Diaz says. "I gave him $20 ... I figure maybe it'll help him. I don't know."
Diaz says he asked for something in return — the teen's knife — "and he gave it to me."
Afterward, when Diaz told his mother what happened, she said, "You're the type of kid that if someone asked you for the time, you gave them your watch."
"I figure, you know, if you treat people right, you can only hope that they treat you right. It's as simple as it gets in this complicated world."
Produced for Morning Edition by Michael Garofalo.
Morning Edition, March 28, 2008 · Julio Diaz has a daily routine. Every night, the 31-year-old social worker ends his hour-long subway commute to the Bronx one stop early, just so he can eat at his favorite diner.
But one night last month, as Diaz stepped off the No. 6 train and onto a nearly empty platform, his evening took an unexpected turn.
He was walking toward the stairs when a teenage boy approached and pulled out a knife.
"He wants my money, so I just gave him my wallet and told him, 'Here you go,'" Diaz says.
As the teen began to walk away, Diaz told him, "Hey, wait a minute. You forgot something. If you're going to be robbing people for the rest of the night, you might as well take my coat to keep you warm."
The would-be robber looked at his would-be victim, "like what's going on here?" Diaz says. "He asked me, 'Why are you doing this?'"
Diaz replied: "If you're willing to risk your freedom for a few dollars, then I guess you must really need the money. I mean, all I wanted to do was get dinner and if you really want to join me ... hey, you're more than welcome.
"You know, I just felt maybe he really needs help," Diaz says.
Diaz says he and the teen went into the diner and sat in a booth.
"The manager comes by, the dishwashers come by, the waiters come by to say hi," Diaz says. "The kid was like, 'You know everybody here. Do you own this place?'"
"No, I just eat here a lot," Diaz says he told the teen. "He says, 'But you're even nice to the dishwasher.'"
Diaz replied, "Well, haven't you been taught you should be nice to everybody?"
"Yea, but I didn't think people actually behaved that way," the teen said.
Diaz asked him what he wanted out of life. "He just had almost a sad face," Diaz says.
The teen couldn't answer Diaz — or he didn't want to.
When the bill arrived, Diaz told the teen, "Look, I guess you're going to have to pay for this bill 'cause you have my money and I can't pay for this. So if you give me my wallet back, I'll gladly treat you."
The teen "didn't even think about it" and returned the wallet, Diaz says. "I gave him $20 ... I figure maybe it'll help him. I don't know."
Diaz says he asked for something in return — the teen's knife — "and he gave it to me."
Afterward, when Diaz told his mother what happened, she said, "You're the type of kid that if someone asked you for the time, you gave them your watch."
"I figure, you know, if you treat people right, you can only hope that they treat you right. It's as simple as it gets in this complicated world."
Produced for Morning Edition by Michael Garofalo.
New Diet and Exercise Guidelines
I got an article I wanted to share that may have helped inspire me to start exercising again, not to lose weight, but just to be in Christian fighting condition. You know, train my body to be in service to the Lord instead of whims and so on. I have only run two or three times since Thanksgiving. Thankfully, my construction job has got me fairly active, but it's usually a low intensity and no cardio/aerobic really. But even that job will end soon as we transition into life down in Texas. We're set to move at the end of May.
New Diet and Exercise Guidelines
Gary Peters, D.C.
The federal government issued new dietary guidelines for Americans in January. Finally, the conventional medical paradigm may be indeed GETTING IT in terms of the amount of daily exercise one needs to lose weight, according to the revised Dietary Guidelines for Americans along with a new Food Pyramid unveiled yesterday. Now, they recommend allotting 60-90 minutes EACH DAY to exercise.
That's a smart move, considering the key factor in building optimal health in people who have insulin resistance and need to lose weight is a 90-minute "dose" of exercise daily!
Most of the two-thirds of the country who are overweight and tens of millions of others with high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes, desperately need more exercise to revitalize their health. In fact, unlike typical commercial drugs, exercise can actually cause one to go into permanent remission for diabetes.
Other highlights of the new standards:
Lowering your intake of trans fats as much as possible.
Cutting back on sugar.
Increasing your daily intake of fruits and vegetables to 5-13 servings.
Eat fiber-rich whole fruits and vegetables and whole grains.
Exercise 30-90 minutes every day.
New Diet and Exercise Guidelines
Gary Peters, D.C.
The federal government issued new dietary guidelines for Americans in January. Finally, the conventional medical paradigm may be indeed GETTING IT in terms of the amount of daily exercise one needs to lose weight, according to the revised Dietary Guidelines for Americans along with a new Food Pyramid unveiled yesterday. Now, they recommend allotting 60-90 minutes EACH DAY to exercise.
That's a smart move, considering the key factor in building optimal health in people who have insulin resistance and need to lose weight is a 90-minute "dose" of exercise daily!
Most of the two-thirds of the country who are overweight and tens of millions of others with high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes, desperately need more exercise to revitalize their health. In fact, unlike typical commercial drugs, exercise can actually cause one to go into permanent remission for diabetes.
Other highlights of the new standards:
Lowering your intake of trans fats as much as possible.
Cutting back on sugar.
Increasing your daily intake of fruits and vegetables to 5-13 servings.
Eat fiber-rich whole fruits and vegetables and whole grains.
Exercise 30-90 minutes every day.
04 April 2008
Early Morning, April 4
Martin Luther King was shot and killed in Memphis, Tennessee, April 4th, 1968. Did we kill him because of his non-violent attempt to lift up the poor? Or did we kill him because he pronounced judgment on the abuses of the powerful?
There are a number of U2 "Pride: In the Name of Love" videos available on the internet. One of my favorites is this sweaty mullet version so I've embedded it here:
There's also a version I like from the PopMart tour, which I saw with great friends in Dallas:
There are a number of U2 "Pride: In the Name of Love" videos available on the internet. One of my favorites is this sweaty mullet version so I've embedded it here:
There's also a version I like from the PopMart tour, which I saw with great friends in Dallas:
Prang!
I was in a fender bender today, or "prang", as they say in Australia. I rear-ended an '89 Buick with my '92 Camry and then a Maxima slid into my rear. James Brown was in the car with me. We had been following some coworkers in the rain to another job site. James said, "Don't follow Lomberto," who was driving a truck, minimizing visibility of the road ahead. I followed the truck instead of the other cars in the caravan anyway although I general respect James' ideas. Well, on a busy four-lane road with a "chicken" lane Lomberto changed lanes quickly without a blinker. Suddenly I saw the Buick stopped dead and trying to stop while wishing the next lane was clear for me to swerve. I skidded for a fair distance before contact. The older gentleman, Oliver, was thankfully on the sidewalk rather than jacking up his car, which had blown a tire.
Well, the rest of the story consists of standing in the cold rain and going well over our cell phone free minutes. I was the only white person in the story except, I assume, for some of the people I spoke with on the phone making claims and reports on the accident and communicating with coworkers and our superintendent. The man who rear-ended me had said, "I got a Dentist appointment," and pointed to his swollen jaw. He left. James and I drove Oliver around to find an affordable tire replacement. He got a tire for $30!
What I learned:
I want to slow down and not worry about being lost from my caravan. They stopped to wait on us anyway. Next time, I will attend to all general road conditions than on sticking to the car just ahead of me.
I want to lead people, especially in slick road conditions on Friday afternoon, with great care and patience. I'm sure Sammy, Marcus, and Lomberto had this patience, but I suddenly realized that I usually do not. Unfortunately, I usually think to myself, "I'm such a good driver; I'm glad I'm not like other drivers." This might begin to change.
What I was reminded of:
I spent around $60 for my spare tire last November at Wal-Mart.
Nicole had an accident a couple years ago. She was mostly okay except for nerves and a head bump.
I heard from Australia that my brother had been in a car accident. My heart sank. He was all right except for shock and a dinner plate-size bruise.
I was rear-ended by a young Iraqi immigrant to Australia.
When I was young and playing football with my Dad, my Uncle, and my cousin, I juked my, at the time, little cousin after an interception. I had baited his Dad into throwing it gently to Brian so he would be sure to make the catch. Then, I intercepted the pass and ran casually toward a 10-inch diameter tree, finally dodging the tree at the last second, into the left lane, if you will. Brian, with arms stretched forward 11 inches apart closed his eyes just in time to violently kiss the tree. I, in a very un-Christ-like moment, was already turned around to enjoy inwardly my shameful juke. I can't believe I did it on purpose. I am ashamed that I was proud of my abilities to juke my little cousin into the tree.
Luke 18:9-14, " . . . Everyone who honors himself will be humbled, but the person who humbles himself will be honored."
God have mercy on me, a sinner and proud driver! Please drive safely and listen to God's Word.
Well, the rest of the story consists of standing in the cold rain and going well over our cell phone free minutes. I was the only white person in the story except, I assume, for some of the people I spoke with on the phone making claims and reports on the accident and communicating with coworkers and our superintendent. The man who rear-ended me had said, "I got a Dentist appointment," and pointed to his swollen jaw. He left. James and I drove Oliver around to find an affordable tire replacement. He got a tire for $30!
What I learned:
I want to slow down and not worry about being lost from my caravan. They stopped to wait on us anyway. Next time, I will attend to all general road conditions than on sticking to the car just ahead of me.
I want to lead people, especially in slick road conditions on Friday afternoon, with great care and patience. I'm sure Sammy, Marcus, and Lomberto had this patience, but I suddenly realized that I usually do not. Unfortunately, I usually think to myself, "I'm such a good driver; I'm glad I'm not like other drivers." This might begin to change.
What I was reminded of:
I spent around $60 for my spare tire last November at Wal-Mart.
Nicole had an accident a couple years ago. She was mostly okay except for nerves and a head bump.
I heard from Australia that my brother had been in a car accident. My heart sank. He was all right except for shock and a dinner plate-size bruise.
I was rear-ended by a young Iraqi immigrant to Australia.
When I was young and playing football with my Dad, my Uncle, and my cousin, I juked my, at the time, little cousin after an interception. I had baited his Dad into throwing it gently to Brian so he would be sure to make the catch. Then, I intercepted the pass and ran casually toward a 10-inch diameter tree, finally dodging the tree at the last second, into the left lane, if you will. Brian, with arms stretched forward 11 inches apart closed his eyes just in time to violently kiss the tree. I, in a very un-Christ-like moment, was already turned around to enjoy inwardly my shameful juke. I can't believe I did it on purpose. I am ashamed that I was proud of my abilities to juke my little cousin into the tree.
Luke 18:9-14, " . . . Everyone who honors himself will be humbled, but the person who humbles himself will be honored."
God have mercy on me, a sinner and proud driver! Please drive safely and listen to God's Word.
01 April 2008
Back from Belize!
Back from Belize! The only great drawback of the trip was that Nicole and I were apart. I was so glad to see and hug her again!
Here is the first of many Belize trip pictures I intend to post and comment on:
Mariano works at the Punta Gorda hospital. Early on during my conversations in Belize, Mariano tells me he is on the hospital staff. I think he said "meal" attendant. I say, "So you do the cooking for the patients?" He says, "Uh, no sir Jason." Eventually, I realize that he is saying "male" attendant. He mainly runs around on account of male patients who just so happen to stay in the "male ward", a single room. Mariano and I got along very well and had some good laughs as well as attended patients together. He asked for a Bible, so I got him one for free and wrote in it. Another staff member took this picture just outside the hospital the night before our surgical mission team returned to the States.
The Monday before leaving for Belize, Nicole and I discovered that a) we are having a girl!!! and b) the afterbirth/placenta is covering the baby's "way out". So we had (and still have) anxiety over discovery "b".
On the plane I discovered Psalm 131. So I read and meditated on it throughout my time in Belize and even since I came back.
O Lord, my heart is not conceited.
My eyes do not look down on others.
I am not involved in things too big or too difficult for me.
Instead, I have kept my soul calm and quiet.
My soul is content as a weaned child is content in its mother's arms.
Israel, put your hope in the Lord now and forever.
Here is the first of many Belize trip pictures I intend to post and comment on:
Mariano works at the Punta Gorda hospital. Early on during my conversations in Belize, Mariano tells me he is on the hospital staff. I think he said "meal" attendant. I say, "So you do the cooking for the patients?" He says, "Uh, no sir Jason." Eventually, I realize that he is saying "male" attendant. He mainly runs around on account of male patients who just so happen to stay in the "male ward", a single room. Mariano and I got along very well and had some good laughs as well as attended patients together. He asked for a Bible, so I got him one for free and wrote in it. Another staff member took this picture just outside the hospital the night before our surgical mission team returned to the States.The Monday before leaving for Belize, Nicole and I discovered that a) we are having a girl!!! and b) the afterbirth/placenta is covering the baby's "way out". So we had (and still have) anxiety over discovery "b".
On the plane I discovered Psalm 131. So I read and meditated on it throughout my time in Belize and even since I came back.
O Lord, my heart is not conceited.
My eyes do not look down on others.
I am not involved in things too big or too difficult for me.
Instead, I have kept my soul calm and quiet.
My soul is content as a weaned child is content in its mother's arms.
Israel, put your hope in the Lord now and forever.
09 March 2008
God's People Sing
I've been reading devotionals and Scripture each morning from Living the Message: Daily Help for Living the God-centered Life by Eugene H. Peterson. I've had several favorites I've wanted to post on my blog. I read this one last Friday morning.
"There are songs everywhere in scripture. The people of God sing. They express exuberance in realizing the majesty of God and the mercy of Christ, the wholeness of reality and their new-found ability to participate in it. Songs proliferate. Hymns gather the voices of men, women, and children into century-tiered choirs. Moses sings. Miriam sings. Deborah sings. David sings. Mary sings. Angels sing. Jesus and his disciples sing. Paul and Silas sing. When persons of faith become aware of who God is and what he does, they sing. The songs are irrepressible."
Then I heard every creature in Heaven and earth, in underworld and sea, join in, all voices in all places, singing:
To the One on the Throne! To the Lamb!
The blessing, the honor, the glory, the strength,
For age after age after age.
REVELATION 5:13
08 March 2008
Noel Green Videos
Noel Green and I have been friends ever since my freshman year in college/University, 1993. I'm posting my favorite "Noel Green and Friends" videos. Click on the title to be linked to the whole smorgasbord of videos. But here on my blog you can watch my favorites.
The first one, a music video, is fairly well known on YouTube. I just absolutely love it. It's a great song and an excellent interpretation.
This next video makes me laugh to tears every time I watch it.
The Ziploc Fingerman Special is a classic I still love to watch and it was made pre-digital.
Noel made the next two videos for assignments in college.
Okay, here are the Star Wars overdubs that take the cake . . . the spice cake that is . . .
The first one, a music video, is fairly well known on YouTube. I just absolutely love it. It's a great song and an excellent interpretation.
This next video makes me laugh to tears every time I watch it.
The Ziploc Fingerman Special is a classic I still love to watch and it was made pre-digital.
Noel made the next two videos for assignments in college.
Okay, here are the Star Wars overdubs that take the cake . . . the spice cake that is . . .
04 March 2008
27 February 2008
Humble, Grateful
I wrote a song last Wednesday while driving home from work.
make me humble
make me grateful
make me laugh
and make me cry
bring me to my knees.
You're so merciful and
i am so in need
to be what you created me to be.
(I wish I could put the tune up on here. I'm working to put songs up on another site. I'll advertise once I get it going.)
Th funny thing about writing this song is that it was an honest prayer. I felt the need to be changed by God. I felt spiritual "old" and was thirsting for new creation, especially in humility and gratitude. You know the verse in Philippians, "Do everything without complaining" and presenting requests to God with "thanksgiving".
Well, not only was it an honest prayer, but something happened about 15 to 20 minutes later that answered all but the "make me cry" part. An elder from a church in Texas rang me up and explained the goings on for this weekend--their having us in for a congregational introduction/blessing. The elder told us how much money they have already set aside and I got the overall impression that God has had his hand in all of this.
I felt what I already thought to be true--our mission is actually much bigger than us. I felt like God was saying, "Jason and Nicole, you're not going to create the opportunities to ensure this mission moves, but I am." I also felt gratitude instantly. I started, with joy, just wanting to share everything--food, money, clothes, anything. It's hard to express what happened to me exactly, but I was brought to my knees sincerely with regard to humility and gratitude.
make me humble
make me grateful
make me laugh
and make me cry
bring me to my knees.
You're so merciful and
i am so in need
to be what you created me to be.
(I wish I could put the tune up on here. I'm working to put songs up on another site. I'll advertise once I get it going.)
Th funny thing about writing this song is that it was an honest prayer. I felt the need to be changed by God. I felt spiritual "old" and was thirsting for new creation, especially in humility and gratitude. You know the verse in Philippians, "Do everything without complaining" and presenting requests to God with "thanksgiving".
Well, not only was it an honest prayer, but something happened about 15 to 20 minutes later that answered all but the "make me cry" part. An elder from a church in Texas rang me up and explained the goings on for this weekend--their having us in for a congregational introduction/blessing. The elder told us how much money they have already set aside and I got the overall impression that God has had his hand in all of this.
I felt what I already thought to be true--our mission is actually much bigger than us. I felt like God was saying, "Jason and Nicole, you're not going to create the opportunities to ensure this mission moves, but I am." I also felt gratitude instantly. I started, with joy, just wanting to share everything--food, money, clothes, anything. It's hard to express what happened to me exactly, but I was brought to my knees sincerely with regard to humility and gratitude.
25 February 2008
Psalm 9:1ff
i'm thanking you, GOD, from a full heart,
i'm writing the book on your wonders.
i'm whistling, laughing, and jumping for joy;
i'm singing your song, High God.
the day my enemies turned tail and ran,
they stumbled on you and fell on their faces.
You took over and set everything right;
when i needed you, you were there, taking charge.
You blow the whistle on godless nations;
You throw dirty players out of the game,
wipe their names right off the roster.
enemies disappear from the sidelines,
their reputation trashed,
their names erased from the halls of fame.
GOD holds the high center,
he sees and sets the world's mess right.
He decides what is right for us earthlings,
gives people their just deserts.
GOD's a safe-house for the battered,
a sanctuary during bad times.
the moment you arrive, you relax;
you're never sorry you knocked.
i'm writing the book on your wonders.
i'm whistling, laughing, and jumping for joy;
i'm singing your song, High God.
the day my enemies turned tail and ran,
they stumbled on you and fell on their faces.
You took over and set everything right;
when i needed you, you were there, taking charge.
You blow the whistle on godless nations;
You throw dirty players out of the game,
wipe their names right off the roster.
enemies disappear from the sidelines,
their reputation trashed,
their names erased from the halls of fame.
GOD holds the high center,
he sees and sets the world's mess right.
He decides what is right for us earthlings,
gives people their just deserts.
GOD's a safe-house for the battered,
a sanctuary during bad times.
the moment you arrive, you relax;
you're never sorry you knocked.
31 January 2008
Blowback: Laura Ingraham and Ron Paul
I got this video/radio things thru www.mercola.com. Dr. Mercola is a doctor who believes people ought to take control of their health. He absolutely loves Dr. Ron Paul. Below I pasted some of Dr. Mercola's comments from his post:
"In this interview with political commentator and talk show host Laura Ingraham, Ron Paul explains why the Constitution should be followed -- and how unintended consequences are the inevitable effects of current U.S. foreign policy.
In the middle of it, he lets Ingraham know that she is actually unintentionally arguing his own points for him. If you want to hear a man speak with passion and principle, this is the interview you should hear.
Aside from his dedication to principle, there are many reasons why I support Ron Paul, and a major one has to do with his devotion to your health freedom. He believes in:
Expanding the ability of Americans to use alternative medicine and new treatments.
Opposing legislation that increases the FDA‘s legal powers. [Did you know that the FDA has approved of genetically modified foods without labelling? Vegemite, on the other hand,--even though we've had it on our store shelves for years--has been banned by the FDA!!! It is absurd that new government branches like the Federal Bank and the Federal Food & Drug Administration get formed (in America!) without checks or balances!]
The notion that the government should never have the power to require immunizations or vaccinations."
29 January 2008
My Random Album (and economic revitalization)
Band Name: THE BOMB
Album Title: ACCORDING TO OUR BELIEF
Album Cover:
First five tracks:
I Believe
Liberties That Are
Standing, Banking
Dangerous Institutions
More Than Armies
Isn't that cool for coming up random? I used the guidelines I found on my friend, Dan's, blog (click on title to link there). Apparently, it's a "meme".
The full Heidi Wills quote from which the album title came is, "We do not believe if we do not live and work according to our belief."
While I was reading some of the quotes, another one caught my eye, one by Thomas Jefferson, who mostly wrote our constitution before John Adams helped by editing it. Here it is: "I believe that banking institutions are more dangerous to our liberties than standing armies."
That prophetic is worth considering now. Today the federal reserve bank exists in spite of being anathema to at least one of the founding fathers. The federal reserve doesn't have to report what it's doing to the American people. Many people don't even know that it prints money at will without reporting it. Wouldn't it be better if they televised their meetings? People who are hurting severely due to inflation might realize the real culprit. That could be the beginning of a solution.
Here is an abbreviated form of Ron Paul's economic plan and is, I think, in the tradition of President Jefferson:
“Real economic reform must address the underlying reasons for the current economic malaise,” said Ron Paul. “This plan is more than just a band-aid for our economy; it fundamentally reforms four areas where government policies are damaging our national economy. When enacted, my plan will provide both short-term stimulus, and lay the groundwork for long-term prosperity.”
The comprehensive economic revitalization plan is available online at: http://www.RonPaul2008.com/Prosperity.
The four areas that the plan covers are:
1. Tax Reform: Reduce the tax burden and eliminate taxes that punish investment and savings, including job-killing corporate taxes.
2. Spending Reform: Eliminate wasteful spending. Reduce overseas commitments. Freeze all non-defense, non-entitlement spending at current levels.
3. Monetary Policy Reform: Expand openness with the Federal Reserve and require the Fed to televise its meetings. Return value to our money.
4. Regulatory Reform: Repeal Sarbanes/Oxley regulations that push companies to seek capital outside of US markets. Stop restricting community banks from fostering local economic growth.
Congressman Paul has written or co-sponsored numerous bills to enact the policies in his plan. In Congress, he has been a champion of lower taxes and limited government.
Congressman Paul is the ranking member on the House Financial Services Committee's Subcommittee on Domestic and International Monetary Policy, Trade, and Technology. In Congress, Dr. Paul has never voted for a tax increase or for an unbalanced budget.
Album Title: ACCORDING TO OUR BELIEF
Album Cover:
First five tracks:
I Believe
Liberties That Are
Standing, Banking
Dangerous Institutions
More Than Armies
Isn't that cool for coming up random? I used the guidelines I found on my friend, Dan's, blog (click on title to link there). Apparently, it's a "meme".
The full Heidi Wills quote from which the album title came is, "We do not believe if we do not live and work according to our belief."
While I was reading some of the quotes, another one caught my eye, one by Thomas Jefferson, who mostly wrote our constitution before John Adams helped by editing it. Here it is: "I believe that banking institutions are more dangerous to our liberties than standing armies."
That prophetic is worth considering now. Today the federal reserve bank exists in spite of being anathema to at least one of the founding fathers. The federal reserve doesn't have to report what it's doing to the American people. Many people don't even know that it prints money at will without reporting it. Wouldn't it be better if they televised their meetings? People who are hurting severely due to inflation might realize the real culprit. That could be the beginning of a solution.
Here is an abbreviated form of Ron Paul's economic plan and is, I think, in the tradition of President Jefferson:
“Real economic reform must address the underlying reasons for the current economic malaise,” said Ron Paul. “This plan is more than just a band-aid for our economy; it fundamentally reforms four areas where government policies are damaging our national economy. When enacted, my plan will provide both short-term stimulus, and lay the groundwork for long-term prosperity.”
The comprehensive economic revitalization plan is available online at: http://www.RonPaul2008.com/Prosperity.
The four areas that the plan covers are:
1. Tax Reform: Reduce the tax burden and eliminate taxes that punish investment and savings, including job-killing corporate taxes.
2. Spending Reform: Eliminate wasteful spending. Reduce overseas commitments. Freeze all non-defense, non-entitlement spending at current levels.
3. Monetary Policy Reform: Expand openness with the Federal Reserve and require the Fed to televise its meetings. Return value to our money.
4. Regulatory Reform: Repeal Sarbanes/Oxley regulations that push companies to seek capital outside of US markets. Stop restricting community banks from fostering local economic growth.
Congressman Paul has written or co-sponsored numerous bills to enact the policies in his plan. In Congress, he has been a champion of lower taxes and limited government.
Congressman Paul is the ranking member on the House Financial Services Committee's Subcommittee on Domestic and International Monetary Policy, Trade, and Technology. In Congress, Dr. Paul has never voted for a tax increase or for an unbalanced budget.
28 January 2008
Resonating with Christ's Campaign
Hello my wise friends and family,
There's just something about the campaign that excites me.
The character of "Ron Paul's campaign" resonates so much more with Christian boldness, enthusiasm, and humility than the back-biting and power-mongering of virtually all the other politicians. I know that America is a kingdom of this world just like any other worldly kingdom--as do you. Our government lords it over us just like all the others. I know that none of us can be trusted to govern just as Christ would. But the way of Ron Paul's campaign just seems so much more like something that Jesus would smile at. Perhaps I'm a fool.
I know Ron's not the second coming at all, but I enjoy knowing his truthful message is getting out there much like John the Baptist's message made its way to King Herod (and got him beheaded). I'm glad to see a threatening message enter the powers of our own corrupt government.
I know the idea of anyone without perfect knowledge and motives becoming President doesn't compare to the day when Jesus returns and hands over to God the true kingdom--that will truly be an election Day! But until then, it seems like it would be more honorable to think a good person with a message full of truth and meaning could become President than than to think one of the dodgy candidates that promote themselves more than the truth could take the next seat of power.
Here is a quote from 1 Cor 15 that promotes the eternal message that is far superior to any great government's message whether it be Babylon, Rome, or America:
"Then the end will come. Christ will hand over the kingdom to God the Father as he destroys every ruler, authority, and power. Christ must rule until God has put every enemy under his control. The last enemy he will destroy is death. [ . . . ] Then God will be in control of everything."
God is not yet in control of everything (e.g., the White House and sometimes my own house), but I rejoice as he rebukes and mocks the rulers and powers of this dark world using humble people who speak the truth.
By the peace that truly brings freedom,
Jason
There's just something about the campaign that excites me.
The character of "Ron Paul's campaign" resonates so much more with Christian boldness, enthusiasm, and humility than the back-biting and power-mongering of virtually all the other politicians. I know that America is a kingdom of this world just like any other worldly kingdom--as do you. Our government lords it over us just like all the others. I know that none of us can be trusted to govern just as Christ would. But the way of Ron Paul's campaign just seems so much more like something that Jesus would smile at. Perhaps I'm a fool.
I know Ron's not the second coming at all, but I enjoy knowing his truthful message is getting out there much like John the Baptist's message made its way to King Herod (and got him beheaded). I'm glad to see a threatening message enter the powers of our own corrupt government.
I know the idea of anyone without perfect knowledge and motives becoming President doesn't compare to the day when Jesus returns and hands over to God the true kingdom--that will truly be an election Day! But until then, it seems like it would be more honorable to think a good person with a message full of truth and meaning could become President than than to think one of the dodgy candidates that promote themselves more than the truth could take the next seat of power.
Here is a quote from 1 Cor 15 that promotes the eternal message that is far superior to any great government's message whether it be Babylon, Rome, or America:
"Then the end will come. Christ will hand over the kingdom to God the Father as he destroys every ruler, authority, and power. Christ must rule until God has put every enemy under his control. The last enemy he will destroy is death. [ . . . ] Then God will be in control of everything."
God is not yet in control of everything (e.g., the White House and sometimes my own house), but I rejoice as he rebukes and mocks the rulers and powers of this dark world using humble people who speak the truth.
By the peace that truly brings freedom,
Jason
22 January 2008
Pre-occupations
Here I am at home with the day off from work because of weather conditions. It was rainy and now extremely wet, too muddy to get the cement truck to where we need to pour concrete. So I'm at home with the internet.
I've been thinking about one thing deeply at a time. I'll focus my thoughts and conversation agendas on, for example, biodiversity for a couple of months, then on the book of Acts for a while, and now on Ron Paul. Meanwhile I'm also thinking of other things, at the present time our growing child in Nicole's womb. This doesn't change. It is a deeper thread of thought that affects and responds to almost everything that comes my way each day. Also, always below the perceived surface are my thoughts about God and Christian discipleship. The thought that Jesus is in a real way my redeemer, master, and king affects and transforms every other thought. All my thoughts must adapt to this higher, deeper, spiritual thought. It is certainly more than a thought.
Still, as if I am working on another research paper in a grad school assignment, I can't bring myself to merely read a headline article about an intriguing and intellectual candidate such as Ron Paul. I must consume and digest and post portions of the best and most accurate information. Certainly graduate school has affected me. I have developed a pattern/compulsion of wanting to intellectually download broad and deep research, process it theologically, and . . . turn it in?
That's where I think I run into the most trouble. It seems like the process is more profitable than the product. (It's kind of like genetically modifying foods and other technologies. Isn't it cool we can do it? But is it better?) I'm forced to ask myself if what I am doing is worthy of the gift of life that God has given me. I'm forced to think about God when I get frustrated, when I feel I am living with integrity and taking actions I think are right and yet am dissatisfied. I can't see the benefit of my hard work.
So I read Ecclesiastes and Proverbs. I meditate on the Holy One and the teachings that are good whether I can produce any effective change in the world or not. By mercy I'll live wisely and faithfully even if I am ignored, punished, or beheaded.
I've been thinking about one thing deeply at a time. I'll focus my thoughts and conversation agendas on, for example, biodiversity for a couple of months, then on the book of Acts for a while, and now on Ron Paul. Meanwhile I'm also thinking of other things, at the present time our growing child in Nicole's womb. This doesn't change. It is a deeper thread of thought that affects and responds to almost everything that comes my way each day. Also, always below the perceived surface are my thoughts about God and Christian discipleship. The thought that Jesus is in a real way my redeemer, master, and king affects and transforms every other thought. All my thoughts must adapt to this higher, deeper, spiritual thought. It is certainly more than a thought.
Still, as if I am working on another research paper in a grad school assignment, I can't bring myself to merely read a headline article about an intriguing and intellectual candidate such as Ron Paul. I must consume and digest and post portions of the best and most accurate information. Certainly graduate school has affected me. I have developed a pattern/compulsion of wanting to intellectually download broad and deep research, process it theologically, and . . . turn it in?
That's where I think I run into the most trouble. It seems like the process is more profitable than the product. (It's kind of like genetically modifying foods and other technologies. Isn't it cool we can do it? But is it better?) I'm forced to ask myself if what I am doing is worthy of the gift of life that God has given me. I'm forced to think about God when I get frustrated, when I feel I am living with integrity and taking actions I think are right and yet am dissatisfied. I can't see the benefit of my hard work.
So I read Ecclesiastes and Proverbs. I meditate on the Holy One and the teachings that are good whether I can produce any effective change in the world or not. By mercy I'll live wisely and faithfully even if I am ignored, punished, or beheaded.
21 January 2008
Ron Paul on King's Day
January 21, 2008 7:09 am EST
ARLINGTON, VIRGINIA — Republican presidential candidate Ron Paul today issued the following statement reflecting on the struggle for civil rights and the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. :
“It is especially fitting that we take the time to reflect on one man’s struggles to defend our Constitutional freedoms during this primary election season. January 15 was the birthday of the great freedom fighter, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and on Monday, we honor him nationwide for his sacrifice and love of liberty for all people.
“To me, the timing is more than a coincidence. The American people, regardless of color or creed, have the opportunity to choose a candidate who will uplift the ideals for which Dr. King fought—and died.
“The fight for freedom—the preservation of our civil rights—is the fight of our lives. Sadly, after Dr. King’s passing we are faced with a violation of our civil rights in the same vein as Jim Crow: The Patriot Act. I have stood against this and all unconstitutional violations of American’s civil rights, and will continue Dr. King’s charge as President.
“Dr. King would be disappointed in our current administration for more than its continued disregard for civil rights, as he stated ‘a nation that continues year after year to spend more money on military defense than on programs of social uplift is approaching spiritual doom.’ We need to change our interventionist foreign policy, and take care of our brothers and sisters at home. Our nation is in a crisis: we are spending billions on war overseas while those around us are suffering and losing jobs, homes, and hope. It is inexcusable; we must solve the economic crisis at home and bring hope to America.
“Dr. King’s heroic actions should resonate with us today, as we recognize that our votes strengthen the fight for our civil rights. Liberty is the true antidote to racism, and freedom-- limited, constitutional government devoted to the protection of individual rights—can uplift us all.”
Dr. Ron Paul is a ten-term Texas congressman seeking the Republican nomination for President of the United States.
ARLINGTON, VIRGINIA — Republican presidential candidate Ron Paul today issued the following statement reflecting on the struggle for civil rights and the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. :
“It is especially fitting that we take the time to reflect on one man’s struggles to defend our Constitutional freedoms during this primary election season. January 15 was the birthday of the great freedom fighter, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and on Monday, we honor him nationwide for his sacrifice and love of liberty for all people.
“To me, the timing is more than a coincidence. The American people, regardless of color or creed, have the opportunity to choose a candidate who will uplift the ideals for which Dr. King fought—and died.
“The fight for freedom—the preservation of our civil rights—is the fight of our lives. Sadly, after Dr. King’s passing we are faced with a violation of our civil rights in the same vein as Jim Crow: The Patriot Act. I have stood against this and all unconstitutional violations of American’s civil rights, and will continue Dr. King’s charge as President.
“Dr. King would be disappointed in our current administration for more than its continued disregard for civil rights, as he stated ‘a nation that continues year after year to spend more money on military defense than on programs of social uplift is approaching spiritual doom.’ We need to change our interventionist foreign policy, and take care of our brothers and sisters at home. Our nation is in a crisis: we are spending billions on war overseas while those around us are suffering and losing jobs, homes, and hope. It is inexcusable; we must solve the economic crisis at home and bring hope to America.
“Dr. King’s heroic actions should resonate with us today, as we recognize that our votes strengthen the fight for our civil rights. Liberty is the true antidote to racism, and freedom-- limited, constitutional government devoted to the protection of individual rights—can uplift us all.”
Dr. Ron Paul is a ten-term Texas congressman seeking the Republican nomination for President of the United States.
17 January 2008
My Political Fervor
I've never been public about who or what I voted for. I usually went by the philosophy, "vote for the lesser of two evils". Honestly, I'll tell you now, that I voted for "W" twice. Gladly the first time. The second time, I didn't make the final decision until I was filling in the ballot. I don't remember anything in particular about his stance on the issues. However, now I recall that in the debates vs. Gore, Bush swore never to contribute to nation-building and/or policing the world.
Why share my political fervor now? I'll try to tell you briefly . . .
Ordinarily, I wouldn't care about presidential candidates, especially now. I am more confident than ever that Jesus is the rightful King of the Universe, not just the U.S.A., God bless it. So I don't believe that our wonderful empire/country will write history even though I've heard our President and his cabinet make that claim. I believe that ultimately Jesus will come back and all the world powers will be like flies on manure. The poor will be lifted up. The innocent. The peacemakers. The meek. The persecuted. The taxpayers. The tax collectors. The prostitutes. The drug addicts. Everyone who was in real trouble and ran to the candidate who truly meant his promises . . . will be saved. That's what I believe. So, I don't expect much out of even our nation/empire.
But, Ron Paul has brought something to my attention. We have a law to rule our land, not a ruleR. Our nation's forefathers knew that no one has perfect knowledge so, "Let's design a government that let's people live according to their conscience. The government should protect their liberty instead of telling them what to believe, be afraid of, and what to pay for." This desire for the rule of law until Jesus returns makes a lot of sense to me. 1 Timothy 2:2, "Pray for these [rulers] so that we can have a quiet and peaceful life always lived in a godly and reverent way." Ron Paul seems to value this prayer much more than other candidates some of whom exploit the Christian faith for their own popularity.
Ron Paul believes and applies something Jesus said: "When you pray, don't be like hypocrites [two-faced people]. They like to stand in synagogues and on street corners to pray so that everyone can see them. I can guarantee this truth: That will be their only reward. When you pray, go to your room and close the door. Pray privately to your Father who is with you. Your Father sees what you do in private. He will reward you." Ron Paul lives his faith instead of wearing it on his sleeve or exploiting it for votes and popularity.
Mark 6:14-29. John got beheaded for speaking truth to power. Jesus respected John. He spoke the truth about Herod publicly. Ron Paul, too, speaks truth to power. I recall the many times he has challenged the federal reserve bank. He says, "When you print money to cover government spending, it causes the devaluation of the American dollar, inflation. How do you justify essentially stealing from the American people? The constitution does not permit this activity!"
Ephesians 6:10f. " . . . This is not a wrestling match against a human opponent. We are wrestling with rulers, authorities, the powers who govern this world of darkness, and spiritual forces that control evil in the heavenly world . . ." I believe that many of the powers of our dark world reside in the U.S. government. Don't get me wrong, I love this country! But it's just another kingdom of this world and it's wrong, too!
I'm suddenly politically excited because Ron Paul isn't using Jesus to get votes, but he leads in the way of Jesus. I'm public about my vote and support this time because it is an opportunity to speak truth to power, like John the Baptist. It's a time to challenge the status quo and recognize the weakness rather than the glory of our nation. It's a chance to reason together because Ron Paul's ideas are intellectual and inspiring. He's running for an office that he believes should be very, very small. Perhaps he knows what I know, that only Jesus rightfully sits in Office. We'll see Him ruling with justice when he returns. He will vindicate all those put down and oppressed by the powers of this dark world. Until then, I hope I have the courage to speak truth to power like Ron Paul in the tradition of John the Baptist and Jesus, the eternal King.
Why share my political fervor now? I'll try to tell you briefly . . .
Ordinarily, I wouldn't care about presidential candidates, especially now. I am more confident than ever that Jesus is the rightful King of the Universe, not just the U.S.A., God bless it. So I don't believe that our wonderful empire/country will write history even though I've heard our President and his cabinet make that claim. I believe that ultimately Jesus will come back and all the world powers will be like flies on manure. The poor will be lifted up. The innocent. The peacemakers. The meek. The persecuted. The taxpayers. The tax collectors. The prostitutes. The drug addicts. Everyone who was in real trouble and ran to the candidate who truly meant his promises . . . will be saved. That's what I believe. So, I don't expect much out of even our nation/empire.
But, Ron Paul has brought something to my attention. We have a law to rule our land, not a ruleR. Our nation's forefathers knew that no one has perfect knowledge so, "Let's design a government that let's people live according to their conscience. The government should protect their liberty instead of telling them what to believe, be afraid of, and what to pay for." This desire for the rule of law until Jesus returns makes a lot of sense to me. 1 Timothy 2:2, "Pray for these [rulers] so that we can have a quiet and peaceful life always lived in a godly and reverent way." Ron Paul seems to value this prayer much more than other candidates some of whom exploit the Christian faith for their own popularity.
Ron Paul believes and applies something Jesus said: "When you pray, don't be like hypocrites [two-faced people]. They like to stand in synagogues and on street corners to pray so that everyone can see them. I can guarantee this truth: That will be their only reward. When you pray, go to your room and close the door. Pray privately to your Father who is with you. Your Father sees what you do in private. He will reward you." Ron Paul lives his faith instead of wearing it on his sleeve or exploiting it for votes and popularity.
Mark 6:14-29. John got beheaded for speaking truth to power. Jesus respected John. He spoke the truth about Herod publicly. Ron Paul, too, speaks truth to power. I recall the many times he has challenged the federal reserve bank. He says, "When you print money to cover government spending, it causes the devaluation of the American dollar, inflation. How do you justify essentially stealing from the American people? The constitution does not permit this activity!"
Ephesians 6:10f. " . . . This is not a wrestling match against a human opponent. We are wrestling with rulers, authorities, the powers who govern this world of darkness, and spiritual forces that control evil in the heavenly world . . ." I believe that many of the powers of our dark world reside in the U.S. government. Don't get me wrong, I love this country! But it's just another kingdom of this world and it's wrong, too!
I'm suddenly politically excited because Ron Paul isn't using Jesus to get votes, but he leads in the way of Jesus. I'm public about my vote and support this time because it is an opportunity to speak truth to power, like John the Baptist. It's a time to challenge the status quo and recognize the weakness rather than the glory of our nation. It's a chance to reason together because Ron Paul's ideas are intellectual and inspiring. He's running for an office that he believes should be very, very small. Perhaps he knows what I know, that only Jesus rightfully sits in Office. We'll see Him ruling with justice when he returns. He will vindicate all those put down and oppressed by the powers of this dark world. Until then, I hope I have the courage to speak truth to power like Ron Paul in the tradition of John the Baptist and Jesus, the eternal King.
Tell that FOX why I'm electable
I found this deleted portion of the Fox News debates on Pat Buchanan's blog, THANKFULLY! I watched the re-cast of their debates in which they kept saying Fred Thompson won hands down. They replayed where Huckabee expected U.S. aircraft carriers to answer Iranian motor boat threats (who have threatened our big warship in their waters!) with the gates of hell. They also replayed where Thompson had to "one-up" the insanity by saying sarcastically that we would be glad to introduce "them" to those virgins they're so eager to meet. Good grief. I was really feeling depressed that Fox viewers put up with such malevolence.
And then, when Ron Paul addressed the rush to kill expressed by Huckabee and Thompson, Brit Hume acted like Ron Paul was an idiot. He said something like, "Um, all of the other candidates said they would leave the decision to the captain of the warship. Why didn't you answer the question?" I was so frustrated! What insanity! That people listen to the hubris of FOX News! (No offense to you.)
I now rejoice to find the highlight of the night's debate, which Fox news(?) deleted from the program when it was recast. If we were living in the first century, I think Fox News would have beheaded Ron Paul instead of merely cutting off his defense for his character. Watch this:
This reminds me of what another unelectable candidate said to intimidation? (See in the Gospel of Luke, ch. 13)
At that time some Pharisees told Jesus, “Get out of here, and go somewhere else! Herod wants to kill you.”
Jesus said to them, “Tell that FOX that I will force demons out of people and heal people today and tomorrow. I will finish my work on the third day. But I must be on my way today, tomorrow, and the next day. It’s not possible for a prophet to die outside Washington."
And then, when Ron Paul addressed the rush to kill expressed by Huckabee and Thompson, Brit Hume acted like Ron Paul was an idiot. He said something like, "Um, all of the other candidates said they would leave the decision to the captain of the warship. Why didn't you answer the question?" I was so frustrated! What insanity! That people listen to the hubris of FOX News! (No offense to you.)
I now rejoice to find the highlight of the night's debate, which Fox news(?) deleted from the program when it was recast. If we were living in the first century, I think Fox News would have beheaded Ron Paul instead of merely cutting off his defense for his character. Watch this:
This reminds me of what another unelectable candidate said to intimidation? (See in the Gospel of Luke, ch. 13)
At that time some Pharisees told Jesus, “Get out of here, and go somewhere else! Herod wants to kill you.”
Jesus said to them, “Tell that FOX that I will force demons out of people and heal people today and tomorrow. I will finish my work on the third day. But I must be on my way today, tomorrow, and the next day. It’s not possible for a prophet to die outside Washington."
13 January 2008
Ron Paul Intro
I've found the best intro to Ron Paul yet. Just click on the title above and you'll find the site for you. See whether you should register Republican and vote in the primary for the most experienced and consistent and Christ-like candidate. :-)
10 January 2008
As Little as I Am
On December 5th I found out that we're pregnant! Here's the story of how I found out . . .
I called Nicole at about 9:30 that morning to try and work out a solution to my situation of locking my keys in my car in a rough neighborhood at the opposite end of town from her workplace. I did not want to pay $100 for a locksmith. I was having a bad day as it was. Fortunately, Nicole didn't answer her phone when I called. She had just taken a pregnancy test that looked positive and even if it was right, she didn't want to tell me over the phone.
Nicole proceeded to take other pregnancy tests and even do a blood test to confirm her wonderful findings. My day got a lot better when one of my Mexican coworkers, Lomberto, helped me retrieve my car keys. After work I came home, worked out, took a shower, and when I came out . . . Well, I need to back up a little bit. While I was working out, Nicole called me to tell me she would be a little late coming home from work because she needed to pick something up at the store for someone and then grab some Costa Vida burritos to go. So, when I came out of the shower, Nic was standing in the kitchen with the food and said, "Would you mind setting the table?" I said, "Sure," and set to it.
On the table I saw a curious display. I thought, "Neat onesie." It said, 'Don't wake me, I'll wake you.' "Really clever. Who's just had a baby?" I thought. I strained my mind thinking, "Surely I must know a friend who was due about now."
Then my eyes moved down from the clever onesie to an envelope, obviously a card--'For the Dad to be' it said. Almost troubled, I thought, "Why would Nic give a card to a Dad?" Then, my heart began racing especially as I saw the two pregnancy tests. I turned toward Nicole (who was watching me intently) and said, "WHO'S HAVING A BABY?" Nic said, "WHO DO YOU THINK?" Oh! I was so excited, and still am.
- - - - -
A preview of the next few months:
So we are anticipating the arrival of a little Whaley due August 10th. If it comes two days earlier, the birthdate will read the same up, down, forward, or backward. Obviously we have more to think about than the birthdate, though.
We are seeking a church sponsorship (and feel extremely close to finding it) and we're also partner raising for our mission in Wollongong, Australia . . . during a year that promises to be a lite recession for the U.S. Prices may go down slightly, but inflation is surpassing the value of our dollar thanks to the federal reserve printing money for the politicians who want to see our U.S. military strung out across the globe. They don't have the money so they essentially steal it from us by printing more money and going into debt by borrowing money from social security and the Chinese government. . . . I digress . . .
Anyway, I'm not depressed about raising money. We're actually quite encouraged. We even received an unmarked envelope of $100 yesterday from an anonymous donor even though we haven't officially begun accepting checks and such. What a liberal God who gives even before we ask!
This month we are having a retreat over MLK, jr. weekend with our mission teammates and that is sure to be wonderful and edifying. This Saturday night we're having a focus group dinner at the Kohlbacher's (we babysit their boy, Joshua) to present our vision to a small network of future partners of ours in the Gospel. Tomorrow night, our Irish-American friend/neighbor, Pat, is coming over for dinner. She plans to immigrate to Sydney, Australia later this year, too!
In February, we're visiting two churches in Texas, giving presentations and doing Q & As about our vision, plans, and dreams. We're looking forward to both of these weekends. Later in the month, I'm going on a "Faith Walk" with men from various Christian groups for the purpose of drawing closer to God and meditating on personal discipleship. Nicole's coworker so graciously paid for me to do this. (I may post she and her husband's story someday.)
In March, Nic will do a "Faith Walk". We'll probably have another focus group dinner. And we are flying to Belize to join a medical mission team! They have a team of doctors, nurses, and anesthesiologists, but need someone like me to talk to people in the waiting room and in neighborhoods about the message of Christ. We are so excited. Gordon, the anesthesiologist, has helped us organize for this.
09 January 2008
Exciting Day
I had quite an exciting day.
We were pouring concrete for a community college in Mississippi between their building's back doors and a pond/lake filled with water fowl. During break time, Sammy, one of my Mexican coworkers, fed a goose from his own mouth!
I burned the fingerprint off my right index finger while checking to see if my cigarette lighter was working/hot. It apparently was. Still we couldn't get my coworker's tire pumped up using a portable pump plugged into my cigarette lighter, which now smells like burnt flesh. Don't worry, it didn't hurt.
I got to drive the mini-excavator! thru MUD! To see one of these amazing machines in action (and with appropriate music), go to this web address: http://www.bobcat.com/excavators/choosing.
Also, today, I had a great time teaching/facilitating the teen class at church again. We finished reading Jesus' sermon on the Plain from Luke 6. Jesus, who we recognize as God's anointed king of his kingdom, delivers something like a campaign/inaugural address speech. It's probably one of the most life-changing speeches ever IF! one builds his life on the words, not just talks about them.
08 January 2008
Ron Paul Fair and Balanced
Ron Paul was on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno last night and someone has put the interview on YouTube for us and I have put it on my blog to share with the people I love. :-) Part 1 is mainly about Fox News denying Ron Paul's participation in the GOP debates for New Hampshire (where 27% of Republicans haven't heard of him yet). Part 2 is an excellent discussion of Ron Paul's views, clear and simple. I love this man!
Part 1:
Part 2:
Part 1:
Part 2:
02 January 2008
Ron Paul CNN Debate
This video has been edited so that it streams together Ron Paul's responses to questions. There seems to be nothing distinctive about any candidate whether Dems or Republicans in spite of the fact that they attack each other's competence for the Presidency. Why not take a look to see whether Ron Paul knows what he believes and whether his ethos gives him a right to be heard?
You can also see something rare from the television media . . . a "watch out for Ron Paul in Iowa". It's only a few seconds long. "Keep your eye on #3 . . . I'll bet Ron Paul will beat two of the frontrunners . . . he belongs on the stage."
You can also see something rare from the television media . . . a "watch out for Ron Paul in Iowa". It's only a few seconds long. "Keep your eye on #3 . . . I'll bet Ron Paul will beat two of the frontrunners . . . he belongs on the stage."
29 December 2007
Are Antibiotics Useless for Sinus Infections?
I used to have sinus infections all the time, especially in my college years. I took antibiotics every year. I remember asking a doctor one time to "Please give me something stronger this time." So he wrote me a prescription for a more expensive antibiotic. I remember thinking, "This is getting ridiculous. My Microbiology professor keeps telling us about the effects of overprescription of antibiotics." I quit taking them from 1995 to 2003 and actually felt better. I read an article you can link to from the title or read below. First, there is an excerpt from the Journal of the American Medical Association and then Dr. Mercola's commentary that follows. I believe in taking control of our health rather than relying on quick fixes--especially ones that are both harmful and expensive.
------------
Antibiotics are commonly used to treat sinus infections, but a new study found that they work no better than a placebo. Further, prescribing antibiotics to sinus patients may cause harm by increasing their resistance to the medications.
In the study, researchers followed about 200 patients with sinusitis. Of the 100 who received an antibiotic, 29 percent had symptoms that lasted 10 days or more. Another 107 received a placebo, and 34 percent had similarly lasting symptoms. The difference was statistically insignificant.
The effectiveness of a nasal steroid spray for sinus infections was also tested in the study, and found to work the same as the placebo (except among a group of patients with milder symptoms, when it was slightly beneficial).
The researchers suggested that the antibiotic did not help the sinus infections because it couldn’t penetrate the pus-filled sinus cavities.
Unnecessary prescribing of antibiotics has led to enormous problems with drug resistance. Antibiotics were recently found to be ineffective against ear infections and bronchitis as well.
The researchers say the results should encourage more patients to forgo antibiotics for sinus infections.
"With a little bit of patience, the body will usually heal itself," said Dr. Ian Williamson, the study’s lead author.
+Sources:
-Journal of the American Medical Association December 5, 2007;298(21):2487-2496
-Houston Chronicle December 5, 2007
Dr. Mercola's Comments:
It’s been known since the last century that antibiotics have been proven to not help you recover from a sinus infection (sinusitis) any faster than a placebo.
Still, Americans spend nearly $6 billion every year on health care costs related to sinusitis, according to the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases. Imagine if you could put some of that money back into your pocket and address a sinus infection from a foundational level.
How Sinus Infections Occur
Sinus infections occur when the mucous membranes in your nose and sinuses become irritated by a cold, allergy, pollutants or exposure to dry or cold air. This leads your membranes to become inflamed while stimulating your mucous glands to secrete more mucus than usual. As mucus accumulates in your sinuses, it can easily become infected.
But this is all on the surface.
All infections, including sinusitis, appear when certain health principles, such as eating a healthy diet, dealing with stress, and taking time to relax, are not followed.
This dampens the strength of your immune system and allows bacteria and fungus (another primary cause of sinus infections) to take hold in your nose and sinuses. And when it does, you can be left battling fatigue, sinus pressure, post-nasal drip, and thick mucus making it difficult to breathe.
Top Ways to Avoid Getting a Sinus Infection
1. Avoid eating sugar or grains, as detailed in my nutrition plan.
2. Consume good quality krill or fish oil, high in omega-3 fats DHA and EPA.
3. Eat coconut oil. Coconut oil is rich in lauric acid, which is known for being antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal. However, be careful with which oil you choose, as many coconut oils contain fungal toxins. This is because they are commonly made with copras, or dried coconuts, which are often contaminated with mycotoxins. So in order to fully enjoy the benefits of coconut oil, you will want to be sure that you find a company that uses only fresh coconuts to make their oil.
4. Avoid eating these top 10 mycotoxic foods.
5. Get proper sleep.
6. Get regular exercise
If you suffer from sinus infections and other sinus issues often, I highly recommend you also look into the emotional origins of this problem.
Emotions are directly tied to your physical health, and new advances in this field are allowing us to pinpoint very precisely which emotional challenges are spurring your physical ones.
For instance, Dr. Ryke Geerd Hamer, the creator of German New Medicine, has shown that sinus problems are triggered by an emotional “stink conflict,” which could be a severe emotional reaction to an actual odor, or a symbolic feeling that “this situation stinks!”
The sinus infection occurs once you have resolved the emotional conflict, and is actually a part of your body’s healing process. So please do take the time to get to the bottom of any emotional problems that are ailing you.
Natural Treatments for Sinus Infections
If you’ve already come down with a sinus infection, you now know that antibiotics are probably not the answer. Taking them is unlikely to speed your recovery, and will definitely contribute to the growing problem of antibiotic-resistance.
Fortunately, there is a full arsenal of tools available at your fingertips that will soothe your symptoms and get you on the road to recovery. My past article How to Flush Away Sinus Ills details seven of them, and here are the first three:
1. Drink hot liquids, such as tea or hot chicken soup. It will help moisturize your mucous membranes, speeding up the movement of your cilia and thus washing mucus out of your sinuses more quickly.
2. Apply warm compresses to your face, three times a day for five minutes. A small towel soaked in warm water, placed over your face below and between your eyes, will help increase the circulation in your sinuses, which will also help speed up the movement of your cilia.
3. Irrigate your sinuses. (If you’ve never done this before, see the Nasal Irrigation Guidelines source link in the past article above.) Make sure you use a saline solution that does not contain benzalkonium. Benzalkonium is a preservative that can impair nasal function and might sting and burn. To make your own preservative-free saline solution, add one teaspoon of table salt to one pint of distilled water. Nettie pots are readily available and can help facilitate nasal irrigation.
------------
Antibiotics are commonly used to treat sinus infections, but a new study found that they work no better than a placebo. Further, prescribing antibiotics to sinus patients may cause harm by increasing their resistance to the medications.
In the study, researchers followed about 200 patients with sinusitis. Of the 100 who received an antibiotic, 29 percent had symptoms that lasted 10 days or more. Another 107 received a placebo, and 34 percent had similarly lasting symptoms. The difference was statistically insignificant.
The effectiveness of a nasal steroid spray for sinus infections was also tested in the study, and found to work the same as the placebo (except among a group of patients with milder symptoms, when it was slightly beneficial).
The researchers suggested that the antibiotic did not help the sinus infections because it couldn’t penetrate the pus-filled sinus cavities.
Unnecessary prescribing of antibiotics has led to enormous problems with drug resistance. Antibiotics were recently found to be ineffective against ear infections and bronchitis as well.
The researchers say the results should encourage more patients to forgo antibiotics for sinus infections.
"With a little bit of patience, the body will usually heal itself," said Dr. Ian Williamson, the study’s lead author.
+Sources:
-Journal of the American Medical Association December 5, 2007;298(21):2487-2496
-Houston Chronicle December 5, 2007
Dr. Mercola's Comments:
It’s been known since the last century that antibiotics have been proven to not help you recover from a sinus infection (sinusitis) any faster than a placebo.
Still, Americans spend nearly $6 billion every year on health care costs related to sinusitis, according to the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases. Imagine if you could put some of that money back into your pocket and address a sinus infection from a foundational level.
How Sinus Infections Occur
Sinus infections occur when the mucous membranes in your nose and sinuses become irritated by a cold, allergy, pollutants or exposure to dry or cold air. This leads your membranes to become inflamed while stimulating your mucous glands to secrete more mucus than usual. As mucus accumulates in your sinuses, it can easily become infected.
But this is all on the surface.
All infections, including sinusitis, appear when certain health principles, such as eating a healthy diet, dealing with stress, and taking time to relax, are not followed.
This dampens the strength of your immune system and allows bacteria and fungus (another primary cause of sinus infections) to take hold in your nose and sinuses. And when it does, you can be left battling fatigue, sinus pressure, post-nasal drip, and thick mucus making it difficult to breathe.
Top Ways to Avoid Getting a Sinus Infection
1. Avoid eating sugar or grains, as detailed in my nutrition plan.
2. Consume good quality krill or fish oil, high in omega-3 fats DHA and EPA.
3. Eat coconut oil. Coconut oil is rich in lauric acid, which is known for being antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal. However, be careful with which oil you choose, as many coconut oils contain fungal toxins. This is because they are commonly made with copras, or dried coconuts, which are often contaminated with mycotoxins. So in order to fully enjoy the benefits of coconut oil, you will want to be sure that you find a company that uses only fresh coconuts to make their oil.
4. Avoid eating these top 10 mycotoxic foods.
5. Get proper sleep.
6. Get regular exercise
If you suffer from sinus infections and other sinus issues often, I highly recommend you also look into the emotional origins of this problem.
Emotions are directly tied to your physical health, and new advances in this field are allowing us to pinpoint very precisely which emotional challenges are spurring your physical ones.
For instance, Dr. Ryke Geerd Hamer, the creator of German New Medicine, has shown that sinus problems are triggered by an emotional “stink conflict,” which could be a severe emotional reaction to an actual odor, or a symbolic feeling that “this situation stinks!”
The sinus infection occurs once you have resolved the emotional conflict, and is actually a part of your body’s healing process. So please do take the time to get to the bottom of any emotional problems that are ailing you.
Natural Treatments for Sinus Infections
If you’ve already come down with a sinus infection, you now know that antibiotics are probably not the answer. Taking them is unlikely to speed your recovery, and will definitely contribute to the growing problem of antibiotic-resistance.
Fortunately, there is a full arsenal of tools available at your fingertips that will soothe your symptoms and get you on the road to recovery. My past article How to Flush Away Sinus Ills details seven of them, and here are the first three:
1. Drink hot liquids, such as tea or hot chicken soup. It will help moisturize your mucous membranes, speeding up the movement of your cilia and thus washing mucus out of your sinuses more quickly.
2. Apply warm compresses to your face, three times a day for five minutes. A small towel soaked in warm water, placed over your face below and between your eyes, will help increase the circulation in your sinuses, which will also help speed up the movement of your cilia.
3. Irrigate your sinuses. (If you’ve never done this before, see the Nasal Irrigation Guidelines source link in the past article above.) Make sure you use a saline solution that does not contain benzalkonium. Benzalkonium is a preservative that can impair nasal function and might sting and burn. To make your own preservative-free saline solution, add one teaspoon of table salt to one pint of distilled water. Nettie pots are readily available and can help facilitate nasal irrigation.
17 December 2007
Letter from Ron Paul
December 17, 2007
What a day! I am humbled and inspired, grateful and thrilled for this vast outpouring of support.
On just one day, in honor of the 234th anniversary of the Boston Tea Party, the new American revolutionaries brought in $6.04 million, another one-day record. The average donation was $102; we had 58,407 individual contributors, of whom an astounding 24,915 were first-time donors. And it was an entirely voluntary, self-organized, decentralized, independent effort on the internet. Must be the "spammers" I keep hearing about!
The establishment is baffled and worried, and well they should be. They keep asking me who runs our internet fundraising and controls our volunteers. To these top-down central planners, a spontaneous order like our movement is science-fiction. But you and I know it's real: as real as the American people's yearning for freedom, peace, and prosperity, as real as all the men and women who have sacrificed for our ideals, in the past and today.
And how neat to see celebrations all across the world, with Tea Parties from France to New Zealand. This is how we can spread the ideals of our country, through voluntary emulation, not bombs and bribes. Of course, there were hundreds in America.
As I dropped in on a cheering, laughing crowd of about 600 near my home in Freeport, Texas, I noted that they call us "angry." Well, we are the happiest, most optimistic "angry" movement ever, and the most diverse. What unites us is a love of liberty, and a determination to fix what is wrong with our country, from the Fed to the IRS, from warfare to welfare. But otherwise we are a big tent.
Said the local newspaper (http://www.thefacts.com/story.lasso?ewcd=36475b4d132fc0a1): "The elderly sat with teens barely old enough to vote. The faces were black, Hispanic, Asian and white. There was no fear in their voices as they spoke boldly with each other about the way the country should be. Held close like a deeply held secret, Paul has brought them out of the disconnect they feel between what they know to be true and where the country has been led."
Thanks also to the 500 or so who braved the blizzard in Boston to go to Faneuil Hall. My son Rand told me what a great time he had with you.
A few mornings ago on LewRockwell.com, I saw a YouTube of a 14-year-old boy that summed up our whole movement for me. This well-spoken young man, who could have passed in knowledge for a college graduate, told how he heard our ideas being denounced. So he decided to Google. He read some of my speeches, and thought, these make sense. Then he studied US foreign policy of recent years, and came to the conclusion that we are right. So he persuaded his father to drop Rudy Giuliani and join our movement.
All over America, all over the world, we are inspiring real change. With the wars and the spying, the spending and the taxing, the inflation and the credit crisis, our ideas have never been more needed. Please help me spread them http://www.ronpaul2008.com/donate in all 50 states. Victory for liberty! That is our goal, and nothing less.
Sincerely,
Ron
What a day! I am humbled and inspired, grateful and thrilled for this vast outpouring of support.
On just one day, in honor of the 234th anniversary of the Boston Tea Party, the new American revolutionaries brought in $6.04 million, another one-day record. The average donation was $102; we had 58,407 individual contributors, of whom an astounding 24,915 were first-time donors. And it was an entirely voluntary, self-organized, decentralized, independent effort on the internet. Must be the "spammers" I keep hearing about!
The establishment is baffled and worried, and well they should be. They keep asking me who runs our internet fundraising and controls our volunteers. To these top-down central planners, a spontaneous order like our movement is science-fiction. But you and I know it's real: as real as the American people's yearning for freedom, peace, and prosperity, as real as all the men and women who have sacrificed for our ideals, in the past and today.
And how neat to see celebrations all across the world, with Tea Parties from France to New Zealand. This is how we can spread the ideals of our country, through voluntary emulation, not bombs and bribes. Of course, there were hundreds in America.
As I dropped in on a cheering, laughing crowd of about 600 near my home in Freeport, Texas, I noted that they call us "angry." Well, we are the happiest, most optimistic "angry" movement ever, and the most diverse. What unites us is a love of liberty, and a determination to fix what is wrong with our country, from the Fed to the IRS, from warfare to welfare. But otherwise we are a big tent.
Said the local newspaper (http://www.thefacts.com/story.lasso?ewcd=36475b4d132fc0a1): "The elderly sat with teens barely old enough to vote. The faces were black, Hispanic, Asian and white. There was no fear in their voices as they spoke boldly with each other about the way the country should be. Held close like a deeply held secret, Paul has brought them out of the disconnect they feel between what they know to be true and where the country has been led."
Thanks also to the 500 or so who braved the blizzard in Boston to go to Faneuil Hall. My son Rand told me what a great time he had with you.
A few mornings ago on LewRockwell.com, I saw a YouTube of a 14-year-old boy that summed up our whole movement for me. This well-spoken young man, who could have passed in knowledge for a college graduate, told how he heard our ideas being denounced. So he decided to Google. He read some of my speeches, and thought, these make sense. Then he studied US foreign policy of recent years, and came to the conclusion that we are right. So he persuaded his father to drop Rudy Giuliani and join our movement.
All over America, all over the world, we are inspiring real change. With the wars and the spying, the spending and the taxing, the inflation and the credit crisis, our ideas have never been more needed. Please help me spread them http://www.ronpaul2008.com/donate in all 50 states. Victory for liberty! That is our goal, and nothing less.
Sincerely,
Ron
15 December 2007
Ron Paul and Political Paradigms
I read a short positive article on Ron Paul I wanted to share. Click on the title "Ron Paul and Political Paradigms" to be linked to the article.
I've been teaching/facilitating the teen class on Wednesday nights for several months now. We originally started going through the book of Acts. I believe the book of Acts is about the restoration of Israel. Israel was restored when, for starters, the risen Jesus became the eternal king/Messiah of the offspring of David (2 Samuel 7). However, though Israel was essentially restored at that point through the ascension and enthronement of Jesus the King/Messiah, the Apostles asked him, "Master, are you going to restore the kingdom to Israel now? Is this the time?" What did Jesus say? He had already taught them about the kingdom in a forty-day seminar, hadn't he? Most of the people he came across in the book of Acts already understood the kingdom before he had even come along.
However, I've often heard it taught that those foolish Apostles misunderstood the nature of God's Kingdom. "It's a spiritual, not a political, kingdom . . . (blah, blah, blah)."
But Jesus didn't ridicule the Apostles for a misunderstanding this time. They understood that there had been the effective anointment of the true king of Israel and the world. They only wondered when the regime change would begin to transform Israel and the world. Hence their question's emphasis on time. And hence Jesus' answer's emphasis on time and the Father's will. He told them, "You don't get to know the time. Timing is the Father's business. What you'll get is the Holy Spirit. And when the Holy Spirit comes on you, you'll be able to be my witnesses in Jerusalem, all over Judea and Samaria, even to the ends of the world."
It is correct that God's Kingdom is spiritual, for the Holy Spirit initiates the regime change rather than some human-contrived political establishment. However, the Kingdom is a political realm. It is an eternal, political Kingdom already verified thru the King's resurrection. His power has already been demonstrated in the new Israel, in us, thru the Holy Spirit. Israel can now truly be a light to the ends of the world, not simply because they are scattered, but because God has appointed Jesus as Messiah by raising him from the dead. The Kingdom is being restored to this day, and until the King returns, each time we bow our allegiance to Jesus, the God-approved King.
In our teens class, we imagined that each of us was a national ruler. Some would be Presidents, others Prime Ministers, others Warlords, and still others Kings and Queens of Kingdoms. (I was Emperor of the Welsh Empire.) We imagined the first ten lines of our inaugural address in order to prepare for the inaugural address of the King of kings and Lord of lords. Then, we listened to Jesus' sermon on the plain where a congregation gathered around him both to hear him and to be cured of their ailments. Those disturbed by evil spirits were healed. Everyone was trying to touch him--so much energy surging from him, so many people healed! Then he spoke: . . .
I would encourage you to read the first ten lines of Jesus' inaugural address starting in Luke 6:19.
I've been teaching/facilitating the teen class on Wednesday nights for several months now. We originally started going through the book of Acts. I believe the book of Acts is about the restoration of Israel. Israel was restored when, for starters, the risen Jesus became the eternal king/Messiah of the offspring of David (2 Samuel 7). However, though Israel was essentially restored at that point through the ascension and enthronement of Jesus the King/Messiah, the Apostles asked him, "Master, are you going to restore the kingdom to Israel now? Is this the time?" What did Jesus say? He had already taught them about the kingdom in a forty-day seminar, hadn't he? Most of the people he came across in the book of Acts already understood the kingdom before he had even come along.
However, I've often heard it taught that those foolish Apostles misunderstood the nature of God's Kingdom. "It's a spiritual, not a political, kingdom . . . (blah, blah, blah)."
But Jesus didn't ridicule the Apostles for a misunderstanding this time. They understood that there had been the effective anointment of the true king of Israel and the world. They only wondered when the regime change would begin to transform Israel and the world. Hence their question's emphasis on time. And hence Jesus' answer's emphasis on time and the Father's will. He told them, "You don't get to know the time. Timing is the Father's business. What you'll get is the Holy Spirit. And when the Holy Spirit comes on you, you'll be able to be my witnesses in Jerusalem, all over Judea and Samaria, even to the ends of the world."
It is correct that God's Kingdom is spiritual, for the Holy Spirit initiates the regime change rather than some human-contrived political establishment. However, the Kingdom is a political realm. It is an eternal, political Kingdom already verified thru the King's resurrection. His power has already been demonstrated in the new Israel, in us, thru the Holy Spirit. Israel can now truly be a light to the ends of the world, not simply because they are scattered, but because God has appointed Jesus as Messiah by raising him from the dead. The Kingdom is being restored to this day, and until the King returns, each time we bow our allegiance to Jesus, the God-approved King.
In our teens class, we imagined that each of us was a national ruler. Some would be Presidents, others Prime Ministers, others Warlords, and still others Kings and Queens of Kingdoms. (I was Emperor of the Welsh Empire.) We imagined the first ten lines of our inaugural address in order to prepare for the inaugural address of the King of kings and Lord of lords. Then, we listened to Jesus' sermon on the plain where a congregation gathered around him both to hear him and to be cured of their ailments. Those disturbed by evil spirits were healed. Everyone was trying to touch him--so much energy surging from him, so many people healed! Then he spoke: . . .
I would encourage you to read the first ten lines of Jesus' inaugural address starting in Luke 6:19.
08 December 2007
Who Would the World Elect?
Check this out! Click on the link--http://www.whowouldtheworldelect.com/--and vote for your candidate of choice. Then, notice who has the most votes internationally! Do more soldiers support Ron Paul than any other candidate? Do his messages attract people in other countries more than any other? Or is it all a scam?
If you have not done so already, I ask that you watch some Ron Paul videos, read his views on Wikipedia, or read his articles from his website. You won't see anything about him on the television media and when you do they tend to lie. (For example, I have heard them say a number of times that he isn't really a Republican candidate because he's the only one who thinks we shouldn't have invaded Iraq. But in our history we have usually elected Republican Presidents to get us out of wars. Ron Paul is of the original Republicans, not of the Imperialist neo-cons.)
It really makes me wonder why the television news sources almost ridicule him while there is a sense on the web of a real fervor for Ron Paul. Rather than letting the present powers decide who is the most qualified or eligible candidate, I would rather let the support come from a grassroots movement. Perhaps that's kind of scary since it would include both saints and sinners. Surely support would come from greater saints than the ones in power right now, but it may also come from worse sinners.
If you have not done so already, I ask that you watch some Ron Paul videos, read his views on Wikipedia, or read his articles from his website. You won't see anything about him on the television media and when you do they tend to lie. (For example, I have heard them say a number of times that he isn't really a Republican candidate because he's the only one who thinks we shouldn't have invaded Iraq. But in our history we have usually elected Republican Presidents to get us out of wars. Ron Paul is of the original Republicans, not of the Imperialist neo-cons.)
It really makes me wonder why the television news sources almost ridicule him while there is a sense on the web of a real fervor for Ron Paul. Rather than letting the present powers decide who is the most qualified or eligible candidate, I would rather let the support come from a grassroots movement. Perhaps that's kind of scary since it would include both saints and sinners. Surely support would come from greater saints than the ones in power right now, but it may also come from worse sinners.
03 December 2007
Ron Paul and Parkour
I'm sorry I haven't really been updating my blog. I'm constantly thinking of things I would like to post for encouragement, but we're pretty busy and sometimes I don't feel like I can put my thoughts down very concisely. So here are a couple of points I'll just put up for people to see . . .
First, I'm still happy with Ron Paul and his character and ideas. I don't know if America really wants him for President, but I do. I'm planning to send him some money to help spread his message. I remember hearing him say one time (and I've watched lots of his speeches and read his writings online over the past several months): "Americans are losing faith that the government can solve all their problems," and "I think people would like a government that has a good message."
Second, I'm considering a new sport/activity with my friend and former mission teammate, Jon Grizzle. He introduced me via the Web to "Parkour". Watching videos is probably the best description, but I would describe it something like this:
Rule #1: Don't hurt yourself: know what you can do.
Rule #2: Travel from point A to point B as though your life depended on it.
Rule #3: Learn to overcome obstacles through courage and discipline.
Rule #4: Let Parkour instruct your life.
Here are a couple of my favorite videos, a website, and of course the Wikipedia link:
Also, look at these two websites if you want to learn about Parkour: http://www.americanparkour.com/ and http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parkour.
First, I'm still happy with Ron Paul and his character and ideas. I don't know if America really wants him for President, but I do. I'm planning to send him some money to help spread his message. I remember hearing him say one time (and I've watched lots of his speeches and read his writings online over the past several months): "Americans are losing faith that the government can solve all their problems," and "I think people would like a government that has a good message."
Second, I'm considering a new sport/activity with my friend and former mission teammate, Jon Grizzle. He introduced me via the Web to "Parkour". Watching videos is probably the best description, but I would describe it something like this:
Rule #1: Don't hurt yourself: know what you can do.
Rule #2: Travel from point A to point B as though your life depended on it.
Rule #3: Learn to overcome obstacles through courage and discipline.
Rule #4: Let Parkour instruct your life.
Here are a couple of my favorite videos, a website, and of course the Wikipedia link:
Also, look at these two websites if you want to learn about Parkour: http://www.americanparkour.com/ and http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parkour.
13 November 2007
Politics
I've had a lot on my mind recently. Visiting prospective partners who might send us to Australia for ten years . . . Nicole's Mum staying with thru Thanksgiving . . . leadership and power dynamics in my workplace . . . various asundry blog post ideas I never get around to posting . . . and, of course, what I may eat, drink, or wear tomorrow.
I've also been thinking a lot about Ron Paul. He's kind of messed my life up a bit by inspiring me to give up political apathy. I still have greater faith in Jesus of Nazareth's ability to rule the world than anyone else. He's the only rightful king. But Ron Paul's deep conviction and character remind me of this. I want to ask my blog readers to take time studying Ron Paul's personal history, views, and essays. I recommend watching YouTube videos of Ron Paul and/or reading Wikipedia's entry on Ron Paul. I have read summaries on almost all of Ron Paul's views and legislation and have found that every single one made sense.
So, now, added to all the other things on my mind recently, I'm wondering how best to take action. There are many other things that are probably more urgent for me to think about than to consider how I can support Ron Paul for President 2008. Still, I've decided to at least post this little entry to show my support and encourage people to learn about Ron Paul's consistent voting record and thorough knowledge of every issue and his youthful passion for being free and alive. If you take my recommendation, you will almost certainly become a better leader. I would love to read comments from my friends and family on this, too, especially if you have a negative view of Ron Paul's character or convictions. It will certainly make things interesting and remind us of what freedom means.
Oh, by the way, here's a quote from a 2003 article that I really like: "The Founding Fathers envisioned a robustly Christian yet religiously tolerant America, with churches serving as vital institutions that would eclipse the state in importance. Throughout our nation’s history, churches have done what no government can ever do, namely teach morality and civility. Moral and civil individuals are largely governed by their own sense of right and wrong, and hence have little need for external government. This is the real reason the collectivist Left hates religion: Churches as institutions compete with the state for the people’s allegiance, and many devout people put their faith in God before putting their faith in the state."
I've also been thinking a lot about Ron Paul. He's kind of messed my life up a bit by inspiring me to give up political apathy. I still have greater faith in Jesus of Nazareth's ability to rule the world than anyone else. He's the only rightful king. But Ron Paul's deep conviction and character remind me of this. I want to ask my blog readers to take time studying Ron Paul's personal history, views, and essays. I recommend watching YouTube videos of Ron Paul and/or reading Wikipedia's entry on Ron Paul. I have read summaries on almost all of Ron Paul's views and legislation and have found that every single one made sense.
So, now, added to all the other things on my mind recently, I'm wondering how best to take action. There are many other things that are probably more urgent for me to think about than to consider how I can support Ron Paul for President 2008. Still, I've decided to at least post this little entry to show my support and encourage people to learn about Ron Paul's consistent voting record and thorough knowledge of every issue and his youthful passion for being free and alive. If you take my recommendation, you will almost certainly become a better leader. I would love to read comments from my friends and family on this, too, especially if you have a negative view of Ron Paul's character or convictions. It will certainly make things interesting and remind us of what freedom means.
Oh, by the way, here's a quote from a 2003 article that I really like: "The Founding Fathers envisioned a robustly Christian yet religiously tolerant America, with churches serving as vital institutions that would eclipse the state in importance. Throughout our nation’s history, churches have done what no government can ever do, namely teach morality and civility. Moral and civil individuals are largely governed by their own sense of right and wrong, and hence have little need for external government. This is the real reason the collectivist Left hates religion: Churches as institutions compete with the state for the people’s allegiance, and many devout people put their faith in God before putting their faith in the state."
01 November 2007
Nobel Moment
My dad sent me a link to this excellent article [click on this blog title for link]. The author, John Christy, calls for less presumptuousness and drama about global climate change and greater liberality where it counts. In fact, Christy's article encourages me to spend time and money on issues in ways that create 20 to 500 times the benefit of marginally limiting "global warming". I think one of my favorite parts of the article is here where Christy says,
" . . . It is my turn to cringe when I hear overstated-confidence from those who describe the projected evolution of global weather patterns over the next 100 years, especially when I consider how difficult it is to accurately predict that system's behavior over the next five days.
Mother Nature simply operates at a level of complexity that is, at this point, beyond the mastery of mere mortals (such as scientists) and the tools available to us. As my high-school physics teacher admonished us in those we-shall-conquer-the-world-with-a-slide-rule days, "Begin all of your scientific pronouncements with 'At our present level of ignorance, we think we know . . .'"
But the best part of the article comes in the final lines because it leaves us with the ability to respond to an undeniable moral imperative.
31 October 2007
Right/Left Brain
Click on the title "Right/Left Brain" to take a really quick, I mean, really quick test to see if you're predominantly left or right brain. The cool thing is when you can sense visually when you switch back and forth, left to right, right to left!
I'm predominantly right brained according to the test. I looked at the list and noticed that I do think with my "left" brain in certain ways. I'm glad my "brains" are talking. Below I've interpreted how well I think in the particular "area", from RARE to MEDIUM to WELL
Left Brain Functions:
Uses logic - RARE
Detail oriented - WELL
Facts rule - RARE
Words and language - WELL
Present and past - WELL
Math and science - math, RARE; science, WELL
Comprehension - MEDIUM
Knowing - WELL
Acknowledges - ?
Order/pattern perception - MEDIUM
Knows object name - WELL
Reality based - MEDIUM
Forms strategies - RARE
Practical - RARE
Safe - RARE
Right Brain Functions:
Uses feeling - WELL
“Big picture” oriented - MEDIUM
Imagination rules - WELL
Symbols and images - WELL
Present and future - WELL
Philosophy and religion - philosophy, MEDIUM; religion, WELL
Gets the “meaning” - WELL
Believes - WELL
Appreciates - WELL
Spatial perception - WELL
Knows object function - MEDIUM
Fantasy based - WELL
Presents possibilities - WELL
Impetuous - WELL
Risk taking - WELL
I'm predominantly right brained according to the test. I looked at the list and noticed that I do think with my "left" brain in certain ways. I'm glad my "brains" are talking. Below I've interpreted how well I think in the particular "area", from RARE to MEDIUM to WELL
Left Brain Functions:
Uses logic - RARE
Detail oriented - WELL
Facts rule - RARE
Words and language - WELL
Present and past - WELL
Math and science - math, RARE; science, WELL
Comprehension - MEDIUM
Knowing - WELL
Acknowledges - ?
Order/pattern perception - MEDIUM
Knows object name - WELL
Reality based - MEDIUM
Forms strategies - RARE
Practical - RARE
Safe - RARE
Right Brain Functions:
Uses feeling - WELL
“Big picture” oriented - MEDIUM
Imagination rules - WELL
Symbols and images - WELL
Present and future - WELL
Philosophy and religion - philosophy, MEDIUM; religion, WELL
Gets the “meaning” - WELL
Believes - WELL
Appreciates - WELL
Spatial perception - WELL
Knows object function - MEDIUM
Fantasy based - WELL
Presents possibilities - WELL
Impetuous - WELL
Risk taking - WELL
30 October 2007
18 October 2007
Holy Spirit Sustainability
This is an interesting article I thought I would share.
Monday, October 15, 2007
Holy Spirit Sustainability (by Brian McLaren)
According to the World Wildlife Fund, each of us needs about 2.5 acres of arable land to be sustained with needed food. Then we need to add another two acres or so - enough land to sustain the plants and animals that keep our ecosystem balanced and fertile. So, each of the 6.7 billion human beings requires, at minimum, 4.45 acres of fertile land.
But the math stopped working in the latter part of the previous century. The fact is, we're using about 5.44 acres per person on average, which exceeds the carrying capacity of our planet. And these numbers are skewed by our disproportionate ecological footprint as Americans - we require over 23 acres per person to sustain us at the standard of living to which we have become accustomed.
Perhaps we can be forgiven for developing this unsustainable lifestyle because we didn't know what we were doing. But now, as the information becomes available - and increasingly incontrovertible - we have a new responsbility and opportunity. And here is my firm belief: whatever the pleasures that come from living an unsustainable, and therefore unwise, life, the pleasures of living a wise and sustainable life will be far greater.
I was speaking on these topics recently, and a woman told me she wrote a note to her husband during my talk, saying something like, "You got me up at 7 a.m. to hear some guy make me feel guilty for being a successful American? Thanks a lot!" But she told me later, with some emotion, that by the end of the talk, she felt God had spoken to her. "The Holy Spirit washed over me," she said. She was genuinely excited about the chance to learn to live better, and to seek a higher kind of success than we have achieved so far - a wise success, a good success, a sustainable success.
This is true in my own life. When I was researching my most recent book, I kept adding some small choices to my life to adjust my lifestyle to what I was learning. For example, we set a moratorium on incandescent bulbs in our house. Whenever one blows, we're replacing it with a compact flourescent, and it feels fantastic to do so. I took about an hour and built a composting bin in my back yard, and it's really enjoyable to add biodegradable kitchen scraps to it each day. These are small things, but I think if you try them, you'll agree: this isn't drudgery and painful sacrifice.
As the psalmist said, "You show me the path of life. In your presence is fullness of joy; in your right hand are pleasures forevermore." I think it was Jane Goodall who said something like this: "You thought the age of reason was good? Wait until you see the age of love!" And I would add, "You thought the age of consumption and waste was good? Wait until you experience the joy of the age of sustainability and wise use!"
In Deuteronomy 15, God promised the people that if they lived according to the Lord's ways, there would be enough for everyone and "there will be no one in need among you." This is the dream: that we learn to live "in the ways of the Lord" so that there is enough for everyone and the planet is well-cared for, flourishing and green, full of birdsongs, and teeming with life, to the glory of God.
Monday, October 15, 2007
Holy Spirit Sustainability (by Brian McLaren)
According to the World Wildlife Fund, each of us needs about 2.5 acres of arable land to be sustained with needed food. Then we need to add another two acres or so - enough land to sustain the plants and animals that keep our ecosystem balanced and fertile. So, each of the 6.7 billion human beings requires, at minimum, 4.45 acres of fertile land.
But the math stopped working in the latter part of the previous century. The fact is, we're using about 5.44 acres per person on average, which exceeds the carrying capacity of our planet. And these numbers are skewed by our disproportionate ecological footprint as Americans - we require over 23 acres per person to sustain us at the standard of living to which we have become accustomed.
Perhaps we can be forgiven for developing this unsustainable lifestyle because we didn't know what we were doing. But now, as the information becomes available - and increasingly incontrovertible - we have a new responsbility and opportunity. And here is my firm belief: whatever the pleasures that come from living an unsustainable, and therefore unwise, life, the pleasures of living a wise and sustainable life will be far greater.
I was speaking on these topics recently, and a woman told me she wrote a note to her husband during my talk, saying something like, "You got me up at 7 a.m. to hear some guy make me feel guilty for being a successful American? Thanks a lot!" But she told me later, with some emotion, that by the end of the talk, she felt God had spoken to her. "The Holy Spirit washed over me," she said. She was genuinely excited about the chance to learn to live better, and to seek a higher kind of success than we have achieved so far - a wise success, a good success, a sustainable success.
This is true in my own life. When I was researching my most recent book, I kept adding some small choices to my life to adjust my lifestyle to what I was learning. For example, we set a moratorium on incandescent bulbs in our house. Whenever one blows, we're replacing it with a compact flourescent, and it feels fantastic to do so. I took about an hour and built a composting bin in my back yard, and it's really enjoyable to add biodegradable kitchen scraps to it each day. These are small things, but I think if you try them, you'll agree: this isn't drudgery and painful sacrifice.
As the psalmist said, "You show me the path of life. In your presence is fullness of joy; in your right hand are pleasures forevermore." I think it was Jane Goodall who said something like this: "You thought the age of reason was good? Wait until you see the age of love!" And I would add, "You thought the age of consumption and waste was good? Wait until you experience the joy of the age of sustainability and wise use!"
In Deuteronomy 15, God promised the people that if they lived according to the Lord's ways, there would be enough for everyone and "there will be no one in need among you." This is the dream: that we learn to live "in the ways of the Lord" so that there is enough for everyone and the planet is well-cared for, flourishing and green, full of birdsongs, and teeming with life, to the glory of God.
14 October 2007
Whaley Vacation
We went to the Smoky Mountains for a vacation with my family back in August. I posted pictures before, but here are some more. We hadn't been able to find our camera cord since we got back from the trip until Friday night. So now here they are . . .
View out our cabin:
Porcupine:
Melissa about to hold a tarantula!
View out our cabin:
Porcupine:
Melissa about to hold a tarantula!
04 October 2007
Laughing
Follow this link and watch the videos with friends: http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2007/10/04/don-t-click-this-unless-you-want-to-laugh.aspx
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