Fade to Grey

Recently I asked a question about whether or not we are supposed to be friends with everybody. Many responses wer in the vein of 'No'. That is all well and good, but questions like these usually are not simply answered. What if I expanded the question to 'How do I love somebody that I don't want to be friends with, but I run into a lot?" The question just got a whole lot trickier and the answers a whole lot harder. You can't really love somebody practically that you see all the time and not become friends with them. So maybe a whole in the opining of some.

This got me thinking about how most questions that seem simple, but deal with humans rarely are. Everybody would agree that you are to love your neighbor, but what if your neighbor destroyed your yard? Is turning him into the police still considered loving your neighbor? Suing him for expenses? I don't know. Things are rarely just simple.

This can be applied to topics ranging all over the board from loving each other to the war. We want to believe that things are black and white, but many times they are not. I guess this is what I am trying to say in this whole rambling. There are definitely things that are black and white, but there are so many more things where conditions muddle the line. And we seem to want to solve things in our minds without muddling it up. It won't work.

This may be my most disorganized post yet. Congrats to me.

Reflections of an August Weekend

1. VBS is over, it was good, but I'm glad it's over
2. Bookstore, book, drink...AAH
3. I like sleeping in
4. Rudy is a good yet emotional movie
5. I won 7-5 in tennis after I lost 6-0 to a guy that I never beat
6. It's nice to get exercise
7. Hersheypark was really crowded
8. It was still fun
9. Roller coasters are better at night
10. It's nice to be surprised
11. Naps that end at 6:44 are a little too late
12. Zoolander is a funny movie
13. It's the start of another work week
14. I like the tv show MASH
15. The X games were neat to watch
16. Doing a 100 foot backflip on a motorcross bike is sick
17. Landing that backflip with no hands is even sicker
18. I hate paying bills
19. I don't like to break guitar strings
20. Michael Vick isn't THAT good
21. Real Salt Lake vs Chivas USA was a pretty bad soccer match
22. Pro Football is about to start...WOOHOO!!
23. College football is about to start
24. Premier league is about to start
25. I really like sports
26. Could you guess?
27. What should be number 28?

What do you see yourself doing in 15 years?

Interesting question. It is definitely different from what is your dream. Sadly enough we do not usually try to obtain our dreams. We just talk about them. Maybe we should do more. I don't really know what I see myself doing in 15 years. I have my dreams and have yet to pursue them. I can make all kinds of excuses, but when it comes down to it, I can't give a good answer as to why I have not pursued them more strongly. I may not know right now what I will be doing, but this I know for sure. In the meantime, I want to live for God and love people.

Rafael Palmeiro was found steroid positive. I don't know what to think. I have always liked him as a ballplayer. It is a shame that he also plays for my team. I can't win. Not only have we lost 16 of 18, but we fired our manager and the first baseman was found to have taken steroids. Could the test be wrong? Yes. Is it probably wrong? No. Should Congress be getting involved? NO! Why not worry about our deficit or the AIDS problem or the many other things that they could better accomplish, than a sport with a drug problem.

I have this weekend free. It is wonderful. I think that I will head over to Hersheypark for a bit. Maybe play some tennis. Take a nice nap Sunday afternoon. Develop some deeper relationships with friends. Start reading another book. So many choices and I can do what I want. Yippee! I shall definitely relax. That is for sure.

I've been jazzified!

As I have talked about twice this week, I am reading a book. Correction: I was reading a book entitled 'Blue like Jazz'. I loved this book. I loved this book so much that when I finished reading it last night around 1:00 am, I wanted to start over and read it through again. There are so many points and principles to read about. It is crazy. I know that I missed some of them. Not only that but I wanted to reread all the principles that I took from the book. I don't think that I have ever felt this way about a book. Sadly I can't because I have a list of people that want to borrow it from me.

One of the things that Miller talked about was love. When we intereact with people whose lifestyles we don't agree with, we can tend to withhold love. We do this because we don't want to seem like we are endorsing their lifestyle. There is a funny thing about that, though. Nowhere in the Bible does God put that pre-requisite on love. We are called to love everyone no matter what. It is our responsibility to show everyone love. It is God's responsibility to change them. We should quit worrying about them trying to change. That is for God to be concerned about. We need to accept and love everybody.

Another thing that we need to stop doing is beating up ourselves. The Bible says to 'love your neighbor as yourself'. Here's a question for you. Would you go up to your neighbor and tell him how much of a jerk he is? How ugly she is? How stupid they are? I don't think so. So why is it okay when we tell ourselves that. Just something to think about.

So I loved this book. It was awesome. All I can say to you is go and get it. It will be worth the read and it may even change your life. But God will decide that one.

Sometimes you feel like a nut, sometimes you don't

Isn't it interesting how some things strike a note with you. Specifically comments. Many times people say something and you listen and talk about it, but afterwards, mostly forget about it. But every once in a while somebody will say something, that resonates in you and you will think about for the next few weeks.

This happened to me recently. I was talking to my mom a couple of weeks ago and commented about how I was going to enjoy seeing Chelsea FC play. She said that because I enjoyed them and countless other British things, that I should just go to England. For some reason that hit me. I currently don't really have a job, am a bit unhappy with my church and am single. I don't have anything tying my down, so why not go?

Sometimes simple comments or actions just hit us harder than others. I ran into a friend of the female persuasion a little while back and it got me thinking about relationships for a while. Amazing how our brains work. So the result of all this. I am looking into moving to England. It wouldn't be forever, but maybe for a little while. We will see what happens. I really have no idea how to do this, but it can't hurt to look into. Nothing may happen, but again something may.

Peace and love, y'all

Grace, it's the name of a girl

I am currently reading a book entitled 'Blue like Jazz'. I have already stated my enjoyment of the book, but I thought that I would go more in-depth. The book is organized in such a way that each chapter centers around a story and tied into that story is a concept of God. The book does not beat you over the head with spirituality or anything. It just gives you something to think about.

The last chapter I read was about grace. When we try to be strict, fundamentalist Christians, we get caught up in all the rules that supposedly go with God. When we try following these rules, we mess up and think that we have failed. This is such a backwards way of thinking. God loves us. He gives His grace freely to us. No matter what we do, He still loves us and is gracious towards us.

This is something that I have trouble with. The unendingness of His love and grace. If I don't do this or that, I feel like I am being bad and not deserving of His grace. That is not true. What we do doesn't change what He gives us. Isn't that incredible? Guilt does not come from Him. Why do I feel guilty and try to live by these rules that are put out by mainstream fundmentalist Christianity. Maybe I should just try to love God. When we really love somebody, we want to do the things that make them happy. Maybe then living for God will be easier and more enjoyable with less guilt.

Just some thoughts.

Relfections of a Weekend of busyness

1. I hate stress
2. It is great to see family when you haven't seen them in a while
3. I like giving gifts
4. I like potato salad
5. It was nice to sleep in on Saturday
6. I am so happy that I bought this and for cheaper than I thought I could
7. Rehearsals can last really long when people are tired
8. Croquet is okay
9. Playing games sillily can irritate other people
10. 'Some Like it Hot' is a funny movie
11. It is important to do things that please others for only that reason
12. 'Blue like Jazz' is an awesome book
13. If I didn't say it before, 'Blue like Jazz' is an awesome book
14. I hope that I don't get grumpy and stuck in my ways when I get old
15. These guys did a good job Sunday morning
16. Naps are great
17. People should know what they are doing when they run sound
18. Musicians are allowed to be anal
19. I hate feedback
20. I can't wait for football to start
21. This steriod stuff is so cloudy and unintelligable
22. I don't know why I don't post pictures on my blog
23. Does God call us to be friends with everybody?
24. Wherever you want me, God, put me

Where Football is Soccer

Last evening I journeyed down to Fedex Field to watch DC United take on Chelsea FC. It was greatly enjoyable. Outside of the weather being B-E-A-U-tiful, the game was good. You could tell which team was better. The match started with DCU trying to keep pace and tire Chelsea. It was working and DCU looked good while Chelsea looked flat. Until DCU scored. I have never seen a team turn it on that quickly. Within four minutes it was tied up on a WOW goal. Chelsea ended up winning the game, but that is not why I am blogging about it.

In the second half something very interesting happened. I thought that I was just dreaming or seeing things until some articles that I read said the same thing. It looked like Chelsea was running a practice with a reserve team. It was incredible. They just ran passing drills all second half. They enjoyed controlling the ball and never really gave the ball away unless they got cute. This was a match up between two major league soccer teams. Different leagues but still pros. DC United looked like pawns in Chelsea's game of chess. It was pretty cool to watch.

On a different topic, Freddy Adu looks like he is the real deal. Although at times he looked to be 16, there were many flashes of brilliance and things to come. It was cool to watch. Maybe the US will produce a good soccer star, not some lame washout like Landon Donovan. That was exciting to see as an American.

Have a great weekend.

Oh, What a Beautiful Morning

I walked outside this morning and WOW. For those of you not in the mid-Atlantic and Northeast areas of the United States except for a couple of days the last month and so has been HOT and HUMID. I am betting that 25 days of the last month were in the 90s. That is crazy. It is crazy even for this area. We will usually have a weeklong stretch or so in the 90s, but not a month.

Anyway back to my point. A couple of days ago they started forecasting that today would be in the high 70s and not humid. I was, like, 'No Way!' This morning I forgot about my previous thoughts but was looking forward to a little cooler bit of weather. Imagine my surprise when I walked out of the door and the weatherpeeps were right. I left the door and what hit me was cool and crisp air. It was so shocking to my system that I let out a verbal 'Aah'. I didn't mean to be so verbal about it, but as to not fear, no one was around and would be the wiser.

It was beautiful and is beautiful. The weather is so refreshing. There is no humidity and temps in the 70s. We might hit 80 but it really doesn't matter. It is beautiful. It is so nice after the hot and humid weather. It actually started my day off on a great foot. I came in to my very dull temp job happy, very happy. And you know what? I am still happy. Part of that is that I am going to see Chelsea Football Club take on DC United tonight in a grand soccer match, but the biggest reason is that the weather was so nice.

THANK YOU, GOD!

Like searching for a needle in a haystack

Job searching can be depressing. Over the past 14 months I have been looking for a job. Outside of a 3 month project that I had, I have not found anything. I have gone on multiple interviews and sent out scores of resumes and cover letters to companies. I still have gotten nowhere. So why is the process so horrible? It is failure after failure. It already is deemed a failure to not be carrying a job and then to get constantly rejected for jobs just piles up on that.

Another annoying thing of the job search is the 'Thank you for applying, but you stink and why in the world would you have even thought about applying for this position. Oh, and we found someboyd way better than you , so leave us alone.' I used to think that these letters were a polite way of saying 'Thanks, but no thanks'. I have now seen the light though after getting so many of these letters. They really just want you to know that you failed again, you're not good enough, and 'They found somebody who better match the skillset they were looking for.' Crap again, I tell you, crap again.

So this whole process is full of one rejection after another. I shall triumph over it one day though. Yesterday I sent out two more resumes and cover letters. They will probably lead to poop, but I shall continue to fight the good fight. Thanks for letting me release some pressure.

Do you want some Cheese with that Whine?

Why do people complain? It is annoying. I know that I do it sometimes, but some people are chronic complainers. I don't like to be around these people because all I hear is griping. They need to cheer up. Life is not that bad. Why bring down your mood along with everybody else's.

What is the purpose of complaining anyway? Nothing will get accomplished by it. If the person can control the thing you are complaining about then maybe, but still. Why can't people look on the bright side of life.

So what is my point. Be happy. You can't do much about the crappy things that happen to you anyway. You might as well look at the positive things and make the best out of any situation.

Another topic that may spawn a discussion. The Bible says 'Do not murder', not 'Do not kill'. Is there a difference?

Reflections of a Ecletic Weekend

1. I had a great weekend
2. I had two choices that would have resulted in great weekends
3. I can only be in one place at one time
4. Did you know that a dust cloud can cross the ocean
5. I like playing softball
6. 3 for 5 with a walk is good
7. 'Bewitched' is a good movie
8. Nicole Kidman is cute
9. Will Ferrel is funny
10. I like sleeping in
11. I got to play golf
12. That was great
13. I kicked Mr Shoop's butt
14. It was a beautiful weekend
15. God's creation is awesome
16. I love being outside
17. I needed a break
18. It is hard to be honest with people when you know their feelings will be hurt
19. Hot tubs are awesome
20. A hot tub in the winter, when the snow falling, with a woman would be most awesomest
21. Pool parties are fun
22. Try jumping off of a diving board and landing on a boogy board
23. Congrats to Lance Armstrong who won his 7th straight Tour de France
24. I'm a sap
25. Tennis is fun
26. God blesses me

$49 million is not enough

Terrell Owens is a jerk. Many have known that for years due to his incredibly cocky style and antics on and off the field. He also has a mouth that may just be bigger than Warren Sapp's. Now he has proven that he is a greedy jerk. After last season where he spent 6 weeks on the disabled list, but came back to play in the Super Bowl, he has decided that he is not being compensated enough for his services. Before last season he signed with the Philadelphia Eagles for $49 million over 7 years.

Over this offseason he has fired his agent and signed with even-bigger jerk, Drew Rosenhaus. This guy has more clients of his holdout than probably anybody else. Anyway, back to T.O. He was perfectly happy with his contract last year, but now it is not enough. And evidently his family is suffering with the timy contract he has now. A quote from him: "What it all boils down to is I'm going to do what's best for my family." I guess that his family cannot live on $7 million a year.

Can you believe that his ideals are that out of wack? $49 million is a lot of money and could be used to help a lot of impoverished nations, but it is not enough money to feed his family. He really needs a wake call.

So what is going to be his response to this? He is throwing a big temper tantrum. If they don't pay him, he's not coming to work. I hope that they don't trade him. I hope they fine his happy butt and sit him for his contract until he's old and slow. Maybe then he might learn to reset his priorities and ideals.

Burnout

What are the warning signs for burnout? I don't know. I probably am showing some of them too. I have been extremely busy this month. To be exact, 1 free night total. That's crazy busy. There are many days that I go to work in the morning and don't get home till after 10 pm. It is starting to wear on me. But if I can just get through this month it will get better. Will it though? I always seem to pack my schedule. I have a definite trouble saying 'no'. I am always willing to do what people want. So much so that I can't even return a phone call in a good amount of time.

I am trying my hardest not to get burned out. I try hard, but I never seem to get anywhere. Maybe it's because I am trying and not training. In small group, we are reading this book called "The Life You've Always Wanted" by John Ortberg. He is a fantastic applicational writer and I would recommend any of his books. Anyway, the chapter this week talks about training versus trying. There aer some things that we try to do that we never will accomplish by trying. The training is the necessary part. His example is a marathon. We have to train for that, we just can't try to do it. If we were to try, we would go out, start running and depending on how bad a shape your in, would drop after a few miles. Unless we get out and train we won't acomplish. Every day, running farther and farther and being dedicated to it, that is what will allow us to run the marathon. That is so true for so many things in life. We need to discipline ourselves.

So what things do you do that you try hard for but never really accomplish? Maybe it's not a lack of trying, but training. Maybe I have to practice and train myself to say no and be less busy. Then the next time I need to slow down I will be able to because I have trained myself too; not just try and fail.

What a statement

A second post to focus on an incredible statement. I like it so much I have placed it at the bottom of my blog. 'You have a footer?', you ask. Yes I do.

when our depravity meets His divinity it is a beautiful collision

God bless

I'm thankful for...

Friends: Most every Tuesday night there is a group of people that get together in a house somewhere in the world. We are apt to play a game, watch a movie or just talk. Last night we just talked. It is a very cool thing. We have added people to this group which have been great to know. Some people a few months ago, some people many years ago, but there are four of us that have known each other for 10 years. We met in our freshman year of college at good ol' Messiah College.

It's great to have people that have known you for that long. We have basically stayed in close contact fot all ten of those years. What an awesome blessing. It is comfortable. These people know me. They have seen my ups and downs. They know my good parts and my bad parts. I know theirs. We are always there for each other. I am so grateful for this blessing and will enjoy it as long as it lasts.

I am not typing this to exclude any one of my friends or those who game with us. You guys are awesome too. I just want to acknowledge a great thing that I have.

Who wants to tour France?

Evidently 100s of bicycle riders want to. This year's Tour de France is coming to a close in 5 days. Again as like the last six years, Lance Armstrong is in charge. Is this good for the sport? I doubt it. Is it good for the sport in America? Yes. Americans love Armstrong. I am glad that he conquered cancer and came back to be one of the best bike riders ever, but I am ready to see someone else win. I am glad that he is retiring after this Tour. It will be nice to follow others. Can Basso win it? Can fellow Americans, Landis or Leipheimer win it? It is time for the Tour to have some drama.

This is where I stand. Lance, I hope you win it this year. I can't wait till next year's Tour where there will be more suspense. And I also wish I hadn't lost my yellow band. DOH!

As an aside, I would like to tour France, just not on a bike.

Reflections of a bit more than a weekend

Since I haven't seen a computer since last Tuesday, this will encompass from then to now.

1. Nitetime, Ocean Waves, Standing on beach---AWESOME
2. My church youth group is awesome
3. So much love for each other
4. I don't like driving through thunderstorms
5. Especially when lightning hits 20 feet away from you
6. I didn't get thrown in the ocean
7. I did get thrown in the pool
8. I don't like beer
9. If I did, it would be the darker beers
10. The Market Cross Pub in Carlisle, PA is okay
11. It is nice to sleep in when tired
12. The Tour de France is fun to follow
13. I don't know who I want to win
14. I've seen high school relationships change the people involved in them for the worse.
15. I am glad RK jumped in after I got thrown in - it would have just been a matter of time.
16. I hate mosquitoes
17. People from Mass talk funny
18. AC seems really nice
19. It's fun to hang out with friends
20. I hate the Yankees
21. They got beat 17-1
22. It's hot
23. It's humid
24. I am still thinking
25. We have a new victim to the world of blogging
26. When you are saying nice things about many people in the room, it is nice to include everyone rather than exclude one person
27. I want to go back to the beach

Emotive Ramblings

This weekend brought back a lot of emotional feelings as I returned to my former place of residence after three years. I am glad I went but was surprised at my reactions. Also there was a lot of love in between everybody. That was great. It is something that I don't notice or get as much up here. As a commenter pointed out, even up here is more friendly than the ice-cold New England states. I notice that I don't always show many outward signs of love to my friends. I need to get better at it. I really enjoyed the love we expressed to each other on Sunday though.

Last night was VBS practice for church. It brought a question to my mind. Why as Christians do we sacrifice music because it has a good message? Shouldn't we strive to make excellent music too? Too many times in the Christian music world, somebody might write some "Godly" lyrics but the music is pure crap. That is not the way to do it. So for VBS we are doing some songs that don't sound very good just because they have a good message.

I shall take my leave from you all for a while. I am leaving tomorrow morning to drive to NJ to the beach. The youth group that I am helping with has there beach retreat there until Saturday. I hope it is much fun. I shall be back early next week.

I forgot: Congrats to those ubiquitous friends of mine who had a bouncing baby girl this morning. That's awesome.

Reflections of a Weekend in my life

1. WOW
2. Fantastic Four - good action, bad story, bad acting
3. The waitress that served me at Damon's wasn't very good
4. I got my haircut
5. The catering at Hersheypark doesn't really serve food
6. I am not sure if it was even meat
7. It's fun to take a person that is scared on a roller coaster
8. I wish Stormrunner was up more
9. It is too crowded on weekends in July at Hersheypark
10. Why did I go to church in the morning?
11. Why do I still go to my church?
12. I enjoyed going back to the DC area
13. The Sweetwater Tavern is really really good
14. It was nice to see JP again
15. Frontline was awesome
16. I miss it
17. I wish there was a good church in the Harrisburg area
18. Central Pennsylvania is too conservative for me when it comes to church
19. The music was awesome
20. The new auditorium is cool
21. It is good to worship God
22. I got to see some really good friends from down there
23. There is a lot of love between us
24. KA, you're awesome
25. A love for God is a very attractive thing
26. I am glad to see that my friends are doing well
27. I need to be more thankful for what I have been given
28. I like hugs
29. I bet I'll like kissing the right woman, too
30. The Silver Diner makes good malts
31. I wish people in the central PA were more outwardly loving and caring
32. It was a beautiful night last night
33. I am in a very pensive mood
34. I am also very relaxed
35. God is great
36. I think this is my longest reflections ever
37. God, please use me
38. I want a woman
39. SM is a good friend - he listens well
40. Honesty is the best policy
41. I am content with where God has me
42. I want more, but I am content
43. There are so many thoughts running through my head
44. I need to stop
45. It is good to reflect
46. ...

Uuuugggghhh!

Ever had a rough week and didn't really know why. This is one for me. Nothing really bad has happened. Overall many good things have happened compared to only a few irking things, yet it has still been rough. Is it because I expected too much of the week? I don't know. Small group last night didn't help. The discussion lead to some hard things and made it tought to get through. By the end of the night I was emotionally drained.

But today dawns the beginning of the weekend where I get to do many fun things like see a movie, go to Hersheypark, and visit my old church. And next week in the second half, the beach shall call my name. Woohoo.

So have a great weekend and remember to pray for your friends even if they haven't asked for it. They need it.

Why are west shore people such snots?

Here in Harrisburg, Pa we have an interesting phenomenon of being right on a river with substantial pieces of the population being on both sides. Well, there is a definite sentiment among west shore people that they are better than east shore people and therefore they don't cross the river. I myself live on the east shore and find it very annoying that people I know from the west shore won't come over to the east shore to do something. I have to go over to their side to do something. Now let me state that I don't not mind at all driving over to the west shore and enjoy it many times. BUT it does get old when I drive over to the west shore 80% of the time and west shore people come over 20% of the time.

Where does this rant come from you ask? For years the east shore had the best movie theatre in the area. Recently one that is comparable has opened up on the west shore. Suddenly, west shore people want to go to the movie theatre over there and won't come to the movie theatre on the east shore. This is an outrage I tell you. Will I give in to their demands? Probably. Should I? NO!! This will just be another activity where they refuse to drive 20 minutes over to here. Goodness sakes, I can't imagine asking those people to drive to Palmyra. That might be a 35 minute trip. Oh no.

When will the west shore people stop thinking about themselves and being selfish? When pigs fly is my guess.

What an evil Witch!

I read 'The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe' over the weekend. More specifically on Saturday. Since the movie is coming out in December and I hadn't read the book in 20ish years, I thought it would be a good idea to read about it. I remembered very little about it.

It was good. It was an easy read but a good read. Coming in at 186 pages means that it won't take you long. It is nowhere near as complicated as Tolkien's famous writings. You can easily remember who everyone is. I am not saying that either is bad, just different. Although an easy read, it was completely enthralling. I had trouble putting it down because I wanted to know what happened next. It is a very well written fairy tale. For grown-ups and kids alike.

I encourage you to read it. Books are better than movies anyway and this will give you a great background for when the movie arrives. I need to read the rest. Maybe I will set a goal to do that by the end of the year.

Reflections of a Weekend et al.

1. Stupid rock
2. Camping is awesome
3. It was beautiful outside all weekend
4. JS is a very gifted speaker
5. 'Meet the Fockers' is okay (worth a rental)
6. 'The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe' is a good book
7. It's great to have time to chill
8. Ouch
9. I am very glad that my mother isn't one of those overprotective types
10. Mountain pies are good
11. I had a butterscotch malt, caramel would have been better
12. I had a bbq on July 4, so cliche
13. It is nice to talk to friends about what is going on in their lives
14. It was nice not shaving since Friday although now it is starting to annoy me
15. Friday night was hot and humid
16. I love the water
17. Go sis, do that mission trip thang
18. I am well-rested
19. I like hammocks
20. The Relevant Magazine article on premarital sex is a good one
21. Bottles of beer on the wall
22. I have a busy week ahead

O the beauty of the earth

Have you noticed how beautiful the creation is? How brilliant the colors. It's been hitting me recently how intricate and colorful things are. A line of grass with a couple orange flowers sticking up. The beauty of it. Wow.

Also the sounds are incredible. Have you ever just closed your eyes to listen to ocean waves crashing on the beach? They sound so full and wonderful.

So this holiday weekend, get outside and enjoy the wonderful creation. It's awesome.

Also be thankful for the freedom we have been given.

Hector and Achilles

Yesterday I had my first free night in about 3.5 weeks. It was so nice. I didn't have to go anywhere. Do you know how relaxing it is to just sit and veg? Wow. I had forgotten. I can honestly say that I feel better today after resting. Maybe resting is a good thing. I guess I should do more of it.

This weekend is a long one and will be nice. I don't have to go back to work till Wednesday. More resting is on par I believe.

I have a question for you all. Do you have any idea how to quicken the healing process for a strained Achilles tendon. It been hurting for about 2 months and is slowing me down. Any ideas are welcome.

Multiplicity

The Orioles beat the Yankees last night. Yeah!. Also our softball team won a game.

I really don't have much to say today. Here is something though. Stick up for people. When you see somebody being mistreated say something. Even if it is a little thing it can help that person know that somebody else noticed. That happened to me on Friday and it made a difference. I was in the middle of a crummy situation and somebody noticed and said something. It did not change the situation, but it improve my mood because of a guy sticking up for me in a way. Just because we grow up doesn't mean that we don't need anyone anymore. We still function best with people.

So if you see someone being treated crummily, stick up for them. You may not change the situation, but at the very least the person knows that someone cared enough to say something.

What Dreams May Come

Here is an article that I read and it hit. It is from my favorite magazine, Relevant Magazine.

What are your dreams? Have you given up on them? I currently am in the midst of finding a job and wondering what I should try to do. I have my dreams, everybody does, but how do I go about obtaining them. I want to be a musician full-time. Specifically, I want to be a worship leader. I have a fair voice and am not too bad at the guitar, so I have the ability. I love progressive worship. An example, check these guys out. Anyway, back to topic. Should I try hard to pursue this? Is it something I am destined for? I don't know. All I know is that I love to play and sing. I am in my zone when I am doing music. I feel closer to God when I play. So I don't know.

I don't know where I will end up. I don't know what I will be doing. All I can do is hope and pray it is where God wants me. I would love for it to be my dream.

Reflections of a Weekend that was

1. It was hot.
2. Especially in a suit.
3. D.C. has a great metro system.
4. I wish I had driven into DC on Saturday.
5. It's nice to see friends get married.
6. It's awesome to see friends you haven't seen in a while.
7. It's got to stink when you break your leg.
8. Church softball shouldn't be so competitive that when you have 11 spots and 11 people you don't bench somebody because they aren't that good.
9. I hate technical difficulties.
10. I am a technical difficulty.
11. Shakespeare was a very talented playwright.
12. Henry IV is an interesting play.
13. Cracker Barrel is good.
14. Sunday I was home for 1/2 hour from 6:30 am to 12:30 am
15. The Washington National Cathedral is a beautiful place to have a wedding.
16. The problem with going to a friend's wedding when you haven't seen him in a while is that you don't really get to see him.
17. The two weekends in the 90's in June have been my two wedding weekends.
18. Playing PIG in a pool with a pool basketball hoop and a diving board creates for some interesting shots.

A New Way to be Human

Yesterday was a very frustrating day for me. Part of the issue was that for a few hours last night I was around somebody that seemed to want to tell the correct way to do everything that I was doing. The problem was that I was doing fine with no problems and his suggestions were actually the wrong way to do things. Why do some people seem very critical and eager to give you their opinion even if they don't know what they are talking about?

In my own usual way, I started to think about this and wonder if I do it to people. I am sure that there are times that I do although I don't mean to. If you see me doing this, let me know.

I think that this speaks to a larger issue of how we treat people. What is our intent when talking to people is it to uplift them and help them or is it to make ourselves look better. I need to be more careful of this. Looking out for others is a much better way to go about life than trying boost yourself up. Not only that, but it is what God calls us to do. So next time don't criticize, be kind and loving in your words. They mean a lot to people.

Back, Back, Back and it's not Playable

I have not talked sports in a while so I will take today to do so.

The Spurs and Pistons NBA Finals series has gone to a game 7. The Pistons have fought hard and have a chance to win. Not a great one, but a chance. A couple of the games have even been very enjoyable to watch. Anyway, GO PISTONS!! I hope that they repeat this year.

In baseball, my lowly Baltimore Orioles are still in first place in the American League east. They lose a little of their lead bit by bit, but have manage to hold on to a small lead. This is way better than I have expected them to do. Hopefully when some of the guys come off of injuries, the O's will pick it back up. Props to the Nationals for being in first place in their division. Give them some fans and look what they can do.

Football is only a couple of months away and shall be greatly enjoyable to watch. This is the last year that Monday Night Football is on network television. That is horrible. I can't believe it and don't know why ABC gave it up since it was one of their highest rated shows. In College Football the question will be whether or not anyone can beat USC. We shall see.

What are your gifts?

I have been thinking lately about talents that we as individuals have and what we do with them. How do we use our gifts that we have been given? Do we use them for our own glory or to help others? I have talents in many different things and I try not to use them do make myself feel better. Sometimes I do though. One of those 'Look at me!, Look at me!' Whether it is something as simple as enjoying talking to people or something that takes a lot of skill, we need to be thinking about how to help others even if we have to diminish ourselves to do it.

This past weekend I worked on the sound team at my church. Usually when I do this, I am in charge or working alone. This weekend I was the helper. This was an adjustment for me and I wasn't real thrilled with it because I thought I knew better. Then I realized something. It didn't matter whether or not I knew better, that wasn't why I was supposed to be there. I was there to simply help. I had to adjust my attitude and just help. Luckily I was able to, but it could have been very miserable if I had chosen not to. Sometimes I don't and it's not good. So, help other people with your gifts, not just yourself.


In other completely other direction, these are some groups I have been listening to lately. Check them out if you want: Travis, U2, Taylor Sorensen, Athlete, the Beatles, Jeremy Camp, the Desperation band, David Crowder Band. Just some ideas.

Reflections of a Weekend 8

1. Who needs sleep?
2. 'Batman Begins' was awesome (multiple watches in the theatre awesome)
3. 'The Longest Yard' was entertaining, rental worthy, yet entertaining
4. Mr and Mrs. Smith was disappointing, still worth the rental though
5. If you get the chance, go visit Gettysburg, PA
6. I like my dad
7. You would think that in a large, new church building, I would be able to find a 9 volt battery.
8. I won a bet I thought for sure that I would lose
9. Drive-ins are a novelty, but what's the big deal?
10. Gifford Pinchot state park is better than Codorus state park
11. 'Batman Begins' was awesome
12. I drink a LOT of water
13. I am glad that I have yet to lock my keys in my car
14. I got a hit in softball and played in the field, WOW
15. Church softball is about building relationships, not winning, losing or playing
16. I wish I was going to California this week
17. People will let you down sometimes, they're human
18. Is a bag of chips free when you paid for the meal that it came with?
19. Sweet misery of love

A plethera of items

It's Father's Day this Sunday. Don't forget.

I saw 'Hitch' last night. It was pretty good. I am glad that I watched it. Will Smith was his usual very entertaining self. They wrote his character really well. Kevin James was also quite funny. I am glad that I did not see it in the theater though. It wouldn't have been worth the $8. Still I would recommend it to anyone.

Andy Hunter is coming out with a new album soon. It is already out in England but will be here on the 28th.

How well do your friends know you? Do they understand the different levels of you? If you disguise something a bit, do they still understand? Mine don't always. I have noticed this recently. Oh well, we can't expect our friends to be perfect. We should just be glad that they are there for us.

Here is something to chew on from Phillipians 2:3: ...in humility consider others better than yourselves. Do you do this? I know I don't. I am many times to concerned with making myself look good. Something I need to work on.

The x's and y's of 'X & Y'

Well, here it is. After three years Coldplay has decided to release another album. This time it is produced by Brian Eno of U2 fame. Let me start by saying this is a very good album. I like it from beginning to end. I didn't need it to grow on me, but liked it from the start. In fact, I have liked it more the more I have listened to it.

A question you may ask is if it sounds like their other ones. The answer is yes, although I will say that the whole album doesn't sound as much like their old stuff as the current single 'Speed of Sound' does. Speed of Sound seems like it came right out of "Rush of Blood to the Head". This is why the album is not great, but just very good. The drummer is as solid as ever with his what seem to be simple but complex drum beats. He has a great ear for different. The guitar is much more interesting on this album as opposed to the last two. It seems like as a band they have really grown musically. The song styles are much the same a lyrically don't stray far from their usual. They did some great things with some off key fighting chords that just work beautifully together. The oddest song for me was 'The Hardest Part'. It is a very poppy song towards the end of the album. It just caught me off guard with its American Pop feel.

I did not like the synths that Brian Eno used. He has done it with U2 also. I don't understand why they don't actually use an orchestra. It would sound so much better. But with that being one of my few complaints for this album, I shall be happy.

The pearl on this album is the 'Hidden Song', track 13. 'Til Kingdom Come' was a song that was written for Johny Cash. When he passed away, it never got recorded. Coldplay decided that they would record it for this album. It is nothing like they have ever done which is great. It has a folksy acoustic feel. A beautifully simple song. Wow. So I encourage you to buy this if you have liked Coldplay's previous efforts. It will not disappoint. A solid record from a solid band.

Here I am again, In this place again...

Well, it has been a while. It has become much harder to blog due to my lack of a computer at work. I have moved on to some temp grunt work. I need a job. But, anyway, I am still very busy, but must find the time to get to the library or somewhere to write. I made it today and I am here to pose a question. Is it wrong to be lonely? Is it an ungodly feeling?

I say NO. When we are lonely we are usually aching for human companionship. This is not something everyone helps. Anybody can be lonely in any situation. I know I am sometimes. I also believe that it can be viewed as wrong to think such things. But I propose that you can still be fine with God and be lonely. We don't always have close human companionship like we need and like God created us for. To feel incomplete because of this is not a bad thing, just a natural reaction. If it leads us to being angry at God, then we have a problem but to simply be feeling an emotion is not. Just something that I have been thinking about. An offshoot of this is that I believe that one can be content and lonely at the same time. Just something to think about.

Also, spend some time with God today. It will do you good.

Reflections of a Weekend Again

This past weekend was four days long and spent in New York, here are some thoughts.

1. I don't like summer.
2. I hate sweating.
3. Summer in a tux is even worse.
4. It's nice to see friends get married.
5. Golf is fun.
6. I like Cracker Barrel.
7. I like air conditioning.
8. I don't get the party scene.
9. I hate cigarette smoke.
10. Smokers can be really rude sometimes.
11. I like New York City and wish I went there more often.
12. It's nice to see friends happy.
13. I have no problem whatsoever making a fool out of myself.
14. God puts us in situations for a reason.
15. I need a job.
16. I like women.
17. If you are ever in Albany, NY, go to Smokey Bones BBQ; It is awesome.
18. I am not good at video games.

Another pathetic copycat joins the fold

Well, another person has decided to join the world of blogging. He really doesn't know what a blog is, but has decided to make one. We shall see how it turns out. Alas, since I know him, I shall post his link. HERE!

It's in the 90s in Albany and the 70s in Harrisburg

So it's been a couple of days. I am currently up in New York, getting ready to be in a friend's wedding. It has been a most fun couple of days. We went out golfing yesterday and I did the best I ever have done. Props to BD for getting us on a country club course. It is nice to be outside.

Have you ever noticed how beautiful nature is? God is amazing in what He has created. From luscious green trees to all different typed of flowers. The blue sky and just everything around. It is just so beautiful. I love the outdoors. Less when it is 90 but still like them.

Coldplay review will be coming next week.

On Tuesday our softball team lost both games again. I went one for three.

Prayer is good when?

I was in Sunday School on Sunday and they talked about prayer. It was a guest guy doing the talking. One of his points was that it is better to pray in the morning. I know a lot of people say this and say it is more spiritual to do so. That is a bunch of bunk. Prove it to me. There isn't anywhere in the Bible where it says so.

First off you should pray always (I Thess. 5). Secondly, if you are notawake in the morning it is not a good time to devote to God. Give Him yourself when you are at your best. Maybe we should all spend time in the middle of the day when we are starting to stress out. That would recenter us. Oh well. Just some opining and annoyance at the whole pray in the morning thing.

Peace

Reflections of a weekend (whatever number)

1. I am way too busy
2. Saturday at church, 9-5:30 then home for an hour then to a friends till 12:30
3. Sunday at church from 8-9 except from 12:30-3
4. "Phantom of the Opera" is a decent movie, not as good as the show, but still decent
5. I like pizza
6. Athlete is a good band
7. I like acoustic guitars
8. I don't really like church organs
9. Homemade lasagna is really good
10. I won 'War of the Ring', and I was the GOOD people
11. Props to CB whos strategy worked although I didn't always trust him
12. My mom is awesome
13. I can't wait to run the Yamaha PM-1D
14. I like playing percussion
15. It's nice to meet nice strangers
16. I am not perfect (I knew this already, I am just constantly reminded of it)
17. "I am sixteen, going on seventeen." :-)

Time of life is change

Well, last night our softball team played again and won both of our games. Yippee! I did okay. For a definition, go to a dictionary. I did not play as well as I would like, but I did not play poorly either.

Today is the last day of my project. I have worked on a project for the last three months. Now I get to go back to being unemployed. That is not fun. Hopefully this time will be shorter. I don't know why it has been a struggle for me to get a permanent job, but for some reason God has deemed it acceptable for me to go through this trial. I just need to trust Him better than I have in the past.

Nice weekend ahead, I believe. Sunday is very busy, but tomorrow will be relaxing. Monday I can sleep in for a long time, due to my unemployment.

Go get a doughnut

Hey here you go for a free doughnut. Krispy Kreme.


"Krispy Kreme Doughnuts, Inc. is celebrating National Doughnut Day today by offering customers a free doughnut of their choice in participating stores throughout the U.S. Hmm, glazed Krispy Kreme."

I don't like Ed Rendell

I don't like him. I can't believe that my state voted him in as governor. I really hope he loses in the next election. I will try my darndest to that end. He has raised taxes significantly and is doing nothing to help this state's economy. He wants to give the schools gambling money that may not be there, IF they raise local taxes. Mean person he is.

What is the state of your garden?

Like I discussed yesterday, I am reviewing 'Garden State'. This is a movie that is written, directed and acted in by Zach Braff of 'Scrubs' fame. It is a strange movie. Unlike any movie that I have ever really seen. It has a very indy film feel. It is also a very melancholy movie. Don't expect to be on the edge of your seat and excited for this film. It is not that kind of movie.

Now that I have given up trying to describe the film, I will go on. Overall this was a very good film. The story was well written. The directing was well done and the acting superb. The story is about a guy who comes back home for his mom's funeral after being gone for nine years. The movie follows the days right after. The story goes some places that you don't expect it to. It starts off darkly and like I said before, melancholy. It ends very warmly and satisfyingly though. It is a very good story about life and its turns.

The directing has a very simple feel, but is done well. The camera angles and shots are superb. It gives a little bit of an old-fashioned feel to it. The directing is there just to support the actors and story. Some movies try to make the movie through direction. This directing in the movie just adds nice touches to a good movie.

The acting on the other hand is simply great. Zach Braff does well as the melancholy lead. He doesn't try to overact, but simply play the character as written. Since he wrote the movie, he probably has a good idea. Natalie Portman plays a loveable yet quirky girl. She adds so much to the film and shows that she can act when allowed to. Padme in Star Wars is not who she is. It is amazing the differences between her acting in those two. The other actors play their parts well.

The movie does contain things that were less than enjoyable. The language is overkill. No need to go there. There was one short scene of sexuality that had nothing to do with the rest of the movie. Why is it there? Ridiculous. Oh well. Also, if drug use is an issue, this movie is full of it.

So there you go. An odd review for an odd film.

Reflections of a Weekend IV

Thoughts about Memorial Day weekend 2005.

1. I like camping.
2. We need to honor those who defend our country.
3. Thank you.
4. Sleeping is not conducive to cold and wet weather.
5. It is not a good thing when a tent leaks.
6. We split our softball games on friday night.
7. I didn't do so well.
8. It is fun to surprise people.
9. It is nice to see family.
10. Babies grow a lot in two months.
11. I love campfires.
12. I love playing my guitar around a campfire.
13. Mountain pies and smores.
14. It's all good.
15. The sun is warm.
16. Some people are poor losers.
17. I like spring and fall.
18. Not as much as winter, but I really like them.
19. Going on hikes is fun.
20. Psalm 23 says 'I will not be in want'.
21. It does not say 'I will not want'.
22. Garden State is a good movie and I shall review it sometime.
23. I hate packing to leave.
24. I don't understand relationships.
25. I don't understand women.
26. Thank God for number 25, it's safer that way.
27. Subway's BMT is not as good as many say it is.
28. I need a job.
29. God provides.

Let God invade you

The title has nothing to do with the post. I just heard it and thought it was a different way to think.

Anyway, to the post at hand. I am here today to review a cd.
The band: Travis
The cd: Singles

Travis is a Scottish band that has been around for about 10 years. Although they have been fairly popular on the other side of the pond, over here in the states, they have only enjoyed moderate success. They have released popular songs like 'Sing', 'Why Does it Always Rain on Me?', and 'Turn'. These have given them the most attention over here. They have released three LPs with 'The Invisible Band' being their biggest. This album is a very good sum of their parts. They have some rockiness to them but mostly just go for acoustic emo rock. Songs like 'Sing', 'Driftwood', 'Flowers in the Winow' show their acoustic side while 'All I wanna do is Rock' and 'Re Offender' show the rocky side. This album is sure to touch up on all sides of their sound.

So if you don't feel like going out and buying three albums of theirs this is a good option. They picked the most popular of their songs, yet made sure to keep a good album going. Props to them and may the United Kingdom again rule the US music world and get rid of all this stupid crap the pop is putting out nowadays.

American Idol is such a joke

Yes, I am blogging about American Idol. I know very surprising especially for those of you who know my annoyance with it. The reason I am talking about it is that an injustice occurred. I know, it's Idol, who cares. Well here is my issue, Bo Bice was done and Carrie Underwood had won when they were told to sing the same song on Tuesday. I did not watch either of these episodes, but saw clips and read about it.

On Tuesday, both Bo and Carrie were asked to sing the same song "Inside Your Heaven". This was very unfair and a blatant effort to make Carrie the winner over Bo. Songs in general fit different types of voices. There were two big differences between the two contestants: one was gender and two was that Carrie was a country crooner as opposed to Bo's rocker feel. This song was made for a female and a crooner to sing. This was right down Carrie's line and outside of Bo's. While Carrie just had to sing in her comfort zone for this song, Bo had to try to make a song sound great that was opposite of his confort zone. See a problem?

Although I have only watched a couple of episodes of the show ever and probably won't buy a cd of an American Idolist, I wanted to talk about this. They should at least make it fair. I am big for fairness and this was way outside of the realm of fairness. Boo on you, American Idol, boo on you.

What is the purpose of the church?

Well, last night while dodging rain showers (okay so it didn't rain at all during the games) we played our next games. We lost the first game in extra innings with some atrocious glove play. If yours truly hadn't played one of the worst games of his career in the field we could have won the game. I made at least 5 mistakes. UGGGHHH! The second game we came back and won quite handily. Good stuff. At least we split. At the bat I didn't do too bad going 4 for 7 with a sac fly. I am continuing my play of hitting around .500. That is much better than the .100 I started the season with.

Now for a complete switch, what is the purpose of the church? Is it to bring unbelievers in to show them the awesome message of Jesus Christ's sacrifice? Is it to feed believers by delving into the Word and helping them grow in their faith? Which should the church be going for? You can't do both because they are polar opposites. You can't plunge deep into the Bible and stay on the surface at the same time. So how does it work. I don't know. But it makes a difference when individual churches decide whether or not to be relevant to the world around. It is something to think about.

What is the church about? for? Is it about me? Is it about people? Is it about God? Is it for me? People? God? A combination (for me, about God)? Many thoughts to mull over. I don't know the answers. I have ideas, but don't know.

The neglected generation

I am going to use this post to respond to a couple of comments from my relfections post. It was about my statement about my genereation being neglected by the church. The better way of putting it would be a neglected stage of life. The stage of life would be young adults, and even more specifically single young adults. The comment came from the fact that my church is currently doing an 8 week series called Family Matters. While this is great for middle age people that are married with kids, it means absolutely nothing to me. The usual argument is that I get to learn for the future. What if God never intends for me to marry? This argument is just an excuse to pacify me anyway. Why not teach on things that every person deals with not certain groups. I don't need to know how to raise my child or love my wife. I am not there yet. I do need to know how to love my fellow man, fight sin, spread God's word, etc. These are things that everyone needs to know.

My age group needs to know other things. How can we most efficiently make the transition from school into the working world where we will be the rest of our lives? How can we be most effectively used by God now in our twenties? But no, we have to listen to messages about loving our children. Everything in most churches is designed for middle age people: the music, the design of the building, the messages, the lack of media being used in the service. Then we have a Sunday School given to us to pacify us. So we get to go to church and be bored and then be perfectly content that we have a sunday school for us.

So you ask, what are the solutions? Well, there are a couple of things. First, churches could think about ceasing to ignore us and try to at least make us feel like a part of the church. But if this doesn't work, we should probably just try to start our own service to meet our needs. A great example of this is a service started by Mclean Bible Church called Frontline. A service deveolped by young adults for young adults. It's more than a sunday school which is awesome.

So, I will continue to be involved in my church and try to change it from the inside to accept young adults. If I can't, maybe I will see if a service can be started and if that doesn't work, maybe I'll start a church with other people that feel the same way. Who knows. I just know this: I want to follow God to the best of my abilities, but the modern church is not helping.

Reflections of a Weekend III

This past weekend of events:

1. Beautiful weather should be taken advantage of. I didn't as much as I should.
2. StormRunner is a bit of a shock when you haven't been on it in a while.
3. R2D2 kicking droid butt is awesome.
4. You might as well sleep when your dead.
5. Laundry takes too much time.
6. Naps are wonderful, but can waste away beautiful days.
7. The Belmont leg of the Triple Crown is pointless if a horse doesn't win the first two legs.
8. Teenage girls can be really annoying. (No, I am not talking about my sister)
9. The front seat of a roller coaster is better than any other seat.
10. Sometimes it is better to give somebody the thing they really want even if it means creating annoyance for you.
11. I don't care how to really love a child. I don't have any.
12. I am sick of being part of the neglected generation in the church.
13. I may even have to say something to my pastor.
14. I don't like interleague play.
15. As I said before, Star Wars Episode III was a good movie, not a great movie, and certainly not close to the original trilogy.

The problems with Star Wars

I lost my stupid post. Netscape decided to crash on me. GRRRRRR!!!

I was almost done with the review too. Here we go again. Before reading, this review does give away some plot for those who haven't see the movie. You may not want to read further. Many people have talked about how great the movie was. People that participate in this little blog ring that we have even have jumped on the bandwagon with comments like 'within a hairsbreadth of the original trilogy' and "9.5 out of 10'. These people need to rethink especially that second one who was clearly on something when he rated the movie like that.

Here are is my review. My first problem: the storyline was horrible. Lucas had you jumping back and forth everywhere. You never stayed in one place long enough to care. He tried to stuff so many things into the movie that it was too packed. Example: General Grievous. Was he really needed? While he was very cool, he really didn't add anything to the movie plot and took away from other storylines that needed help. He also died quick to imply that he wasn't at all vital to the story. You jumped so much that the characters couldn't be developed full enough.

The dialogue was horrible. Does Lucas know how normal human beings talk to one another? This movie didn't show it. Anakin and Padme? Obi-wan and Anakin? Could it be the acting? Maybe, but even good actors can't do anything with bad lines.

Now a couple of issues with the plot itself. First Padme dying in childbirth. That is completely inconsistent with the original trilogy when Leia talks about remember her mother as a young child. If your mom dies in childbirth, you aren't going to remember her.

Next one. Anakin going to the dark side. Scene: Anakin to Mace Windu. 'Palpatine is the dark Sith lord we are looking for. We need to go get him'. Very next scene. Anakin prevents Windu from killing Palpatine because he now favors Palpatine over Windu. When did this happen? Completely unbelievable. Horrible writing and plot development.

And how about Anaking choking Padme. If he so badly loves her and wants to save here that he is willing to go to the dark side, he wouldn't try to kill her. It makes no sense. The reason he wanted to learn these things, he now will kill? Please.

I have said a lot of bad things about the movie. Let me say some good things. The wookies were awesome. Too bad we couldn't have had them in Episode 6. The effects were very cool and the scenery was done well. The battles and one-on-one fights were awesome. R2D2 kicking some droid butt was rad, man. The one sequence where they switched back and forth in between two fights was awesome. The action in general was very well done. The movie also did not feel like it was long. That is a good thing for a two and a half hour movie. Although I ripped it apart pretty good, I did not think it was a horrible movie. It was a good movie, just not as great as everyone was making it out to be.

I look forward to the comments that will surely rip my review apart. Let it begin...

Jazz and Coffee

It has been a bit rainy today. It has slowed up in the afternoon but was coming down pretty hard this morning. Even though it has stopped this afternoon, it is still cool and windy. It would be the nicest day to sit next to a nice fire inside with a blanket and read a book. (or doze into napland) I have about five books which I am currently reading although I haven't really read in a while. I need to get better at that.

Since I am at work and have not taken the day off to nap and read, I will go for the next best thing. Jazz and Coffee. I have enjoyed listening to jazz all day. Many of you may know that I have a very eclectic taste in music. One of my loves outside of Brit-rock is jazz. I like the older stuff. Give me Davis, Monk and Coltrane anyday. Jazz is awesome.

As for the coffee side of the title, I also took the chance to get a cup of coffee. I don't eat lunch on my lunch break since I pack. So, many times I run errands or other things on my break. Today after running to the bank, I decided to get some coffee. I went over to Juice & Java (a favorite) and got myself a nice blend. Then I sat down and read my Bible for a bit. It was very nice and relaxing. Now I am just working away and waiting for this time of day to end.

Tonight I get to see Star Wars. I am happy about this and I am sure that it will be in my relfections on Monday. Maybe there will even be a special weekend update. We shall see.

God bless.

Do you HATE sin?

Think about the things that you don't like. If it's a food, you don't eat it. If it's a person, you stay away from them. If it's a sports team, you root against them. If it's a politician, you do everything thing you can to keep them out of office. The stronger the negative feeling, the more passionate your response.

Do we have this same response to sin? We should do more than just not like sin. We should hate it. I don't know if I do. If you asked me, I would say I do, but do my actions confirm it? I doubt it. We should for ourselves stay away from sin like it is the plague. What do we do? We hang around to see if it will bite us. We see how close we can get to the fire without getting burned. Maybe our reaction should be a little more passionate against sin. We should do everything that we can to root it out of our lives.

Just something to think about. I know I am.

I hate computers

Why can't computers work like they are supposed to? Did I do something to them in my former life? I guess I am more annoyed at the internet. I was trying to order some cds online through BMG. Their website has not been working correctly over the past couple of days. I finally got my order through today and went to look at my order history. I found out that the order I made had been made two days ago. I never had gotten a confirmation page or order. Due to the lovely internet, nobody wants to talk to you anymore. There are no phone numbers listed on the bmg website. That is really annoying. I emailed them through their fill out page. Who knows if they will do anything. Right now I have eight cds coming to me and four are duplicates. So annoying.

Another annoying thing. Why do websites think that they can install anything on your computer without telling you. Then you get those stupid search bars and ad destroyers. Then they just slowly degrade your computer to pure crap. These people that run the sites are pure scum.

As you can tell, I have been a bit annoyed today. I should get off my soapbox before I talk about more stuff.

2-6 can still be fun

Last night the dear softball team, West Shore Blue played again. We lost both games although they were very close. We have some players out for the first bit of the season and they seem, from what I hear, to be some of our best. Hopefully that will help us to turn this around. We are losing close ones which is encouraging. We just need to start winning them. Yours truly has continued to hit better, but not fantastically yet. I am still waiting for my first multi-base hit. I also am tired of playing catcher. I am glad I get to play but would enjoy myself much more in the field. Oh well. I shall count my blessings.

In other news, I wanted to remind everyone that Baltimore is still in first place in the American League East Division. This is a surprise to me, but they are proving that they can actually play and may keep the good play up for a bit longer.

Where is your heart? Are you too distracted or busy to concentrate on Jesus? Matthew 15 says, “These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me.” Do you think that because you are busy doing things for God that you don't have to spend as much time with Him? I know that I do sometimes. Just something to think about.

Reflections of a Weekend II

Last weekend was an extremely busy weekend. So busy that it continued right into Monday. So here are some reflections.

1. German food is good.
2. Being busy makes one tired.
3. God is good.
4. Our church finally opened a year after it was supposed to. Refer to number 3.
5. We need to be willing to let God use us however He wants to.
6. Stuart Scott is awesome
7. Carrots do not suffice for lunch. Pizza does.
8. 'Kingdom of Heaven' is a good movie, not a great movie, but still a good movie.
9. Orlando Bloom isn't always a fairy.
10. The turnpike is nice to drive.
11. I love my family.
12. The Macaroni Grill kicks the Olive Garden's butt. Now that we have one in the 'burg, I don't care if I ever go to Olive Garden again.
13. Chic-Fil-A rocks.
14. I am a procrastinator.
15. I don't like getting up early.
16. I like Monty Python.
17. Pizza suffices for dinner too.
18. God, please bless our new building and help us use it to make a real impact for You in our community and around the world.
19. It is cool to hear older people talk about their life experiences, especially their childhood.
20. I wanted to see if I could make it to this number. Now I am completed.

We Won!!

Well the softball team is out of the losing column now. We won both of our games last night for a wonderful time. We didn't even have to go the full games as we ten-runned the other team in both games. Yours truly took the game as an opportunity to break out of his slump. I went 4 for 7 last night. That brought my average up from a lowly .100 to .294. WOOHOO! I still need much work, but is was nice to do better. All in all a very enjoyable time. Next game Tuesday.

I want to add to my comments yesterday. Although I am not a fan of Man U, the cool thing about them is that they are publicly traded. That means that fans can own stock in their favorite club. Mr. Glazer intends to take the team off the market and solely own them. The cool thing about the Green Bay Packers over here in the states is that they are owned by the fans. Somebody correctly commented that my team, Chelsea, is owned by a Russian. So it does seem a bit hypocritical to want Man U owned by Brits. First off, props to whomever made that comment. You showed yourself to be very educated and put a very valid hole in my opinion. I guess my frustration was more out of the fact that Mr. Glazer just wants to make money and doesn't care about the team. It's the American greed that bothers me. Not that it isn't anywhere else in the world, it just seems more prevalent in the US. For more information on this topic, check out BBC Sports.

American ego at work

I am not an expert, but shouldn't a Brit own a British soccer team? Well due to the American capitalistic way, Malcolm Glazer who owns the Tampa Bay Buccaneers is trying to take control of Manchester United. Read more here. There is just something wrong about this.

I got wrecked

Last night I was playing a game with some friends. Due to less than honorable actions of a certain person to remain nameless, I got crashed out of the race. Evidently the ruling authorities are looking into this incident and thinking about levying some fines to the individual and his team. They are even talking about suspension. Nonetheless, I hope the dude gets his due. Meanwhile, I am plotting my revenge.

Do we act in love to everyone? As Christians, we are called to act like Jesus. He showed love to everybody. Do we? I think we can tend to judge before we love. I know I do sometimes. This is not the way I should act. Just something to think about. If anybody reads this that does not know me, the two paragraphs are not related. The first paragraph is just some fun between friends. The second paragraph is serious.

This could be a loooooooooooooong season

So here is your softball update for last evening. This game was against West Shore's other 'A' division team: West Shore Red. After last night's events we are now 0-4. 16-6 and 13-7. And yours truly. I really stink. I can't hit the barn side of a broad. Oh well. I need to learn how to just have fun. I have a distinct problem with being way too competitive. It comes out in me being very hard on myself and getting ticked off at myself. Not good. I just need to enjoy myself no matter how bad I am. And believe me I am. Does .100 mean anything to you? Yup 1-10. I have gotten on base a couple times each game, but that is through errors or fielder's choice. Not hits. I guess softball is just not my gifting.

What is? (another time, another blog)

Reflections of a Weekend

Since I don't usually blog over the weekend, this may become a repeating feature. I haven't decided yet, but maybe. So here we go.

1. Hersheypark open and StormRunner down. Surprise, Surprise.

2. Friends are good things. Especially on weekends when you stay up way too late hanging out with them.

3. Family is even better. I spent Saturday and Sunday with my family. I always want to stay with my family a bit longer.

4. Mothers are incredible people. I am amazed how much my mom gave up for me. The closest thing to unconditional on this earth. Mother's day caused me to reflect on this.

5. I am a Gen Xer. I don't really know what this means but I am.

6. I am glad that I am not a woman.

7. Traffic jams are different in Lancaster County, PA than anywhere else. I ran into two on Saturday. One, for a garbage dump. Two, because of Amish buggies.

8. I like coffee. I don't like Starbucks coffee.

9. I always want the weekend to last longer than it does. Oh well.

10. Hiking in sandles does not necessarily work very well. I suggest actual shoes that won't fall off of your feet.

11. You ever noticed that most comedy skits involving a couple have two things. A stupid man and an always-right woman. Man am I glad that the world isn't that way.

Maybe Al Gore DID invent the internet

Check it out.

Cinco de Mayo

First off, Hersheypark opens tomorrow. And I am going. WOOHOO! As like last year, I got my season pass again. What a deal. For $100 I can go whenever I want and pay no admission or parking. That is basically the price of 2 admissions and parking.

Congrats to them Mexcians for winning on this grand day and giving everyone another excuse to get drunk. THIS BLOG DOES NOT SUGGEST THAT ANYONE GET DRUNIK. ONLY AT THE LUDICROUSOSITY OF PEOPLE USING ANY REASON THEY CAN TO GET DRUNK.

I need to respond to some comments so here we go.
1. the Vols suck. There I feel better now.

2. If liking Gordon is jumping on a bandwagon, than why does everybody else dislike him. If he was a bandwagon guy, then people wouldn't be throwing beer cans onto tracks just because he won a race. And their poor little daddy's boy, dale jr. lost. Legitimately I might add. Also if he was a bandwagon guy, I wouldn't get harassed every time I admit to liking him. Did he used to be a bandwagon guy? Yes. Is he now? No.

If any of you did not like those reponses, then I have a good one for you.

YOUR MOM!!

My Allegiances

I figured that for this post I would list out who has my loyalty for a plethora of sports. Not pinatas, sports. So here we go.

NFL
Baltimore Ravens
MLB
Baltimore Orioles
NBA
Philadelphia 76ers
NHL
Philadelphia Flyers
MLS
DC United
NASCAR
Jeff Gordon
College Football
Penn State University Nittany Lions
Men's College Basketball
Univerity of Maryland Terrapins
Women's College Basketball
University of Connecticut Huskies
English Premier League
Chelsea FC
UEFA Champions League
Bayern Munich

I don't believe I forgot any. Let the heckling begin.

0-2 is not a good start

Well, greetings. For the next three months, you will get to hear about the highs and lows of the West Shore E-Free Blue softball team. That is because I am on that such team. No, I am not the water boy. Last night was the start of the season. We started against CLA gray. We lost the first game pretty good. The second game we should have won, but alas could not hold our lead. We lost by one run in the dark. Yours truly had a couple of hits, but cannot remember exactly how many that was. Either way, a paltry batting average right now. To follow the blue team and other WSEFC teams, go here.

The AIDS issue in Africa is huge. Being over here in the USA may make it feel like we can't really do anything. Well, here is a local organization that is affecting the problem in Zimbabwe. If you called to get involved, here is a great chance. For future reference check them out under my links.

In the world or of the world

Friday night I went and saw a play at Messiah called 'Summertree'. It was about a soldier who dies during the Vietnam War. The play itself was okay, but I had one very big problem with it. It had a good bit of language. It had the 'f' word, the 's' word and many 'G-d's. Is it appropriate for a Messiah college production to contain such things. I would say 'no'. This was a play that was done by Messiah students. Messiah was promoting this content in promoting the play. The college should promote clean productions and not allow such things to be performed and sanctioned by a 'Christian' college. They won't allow students that are of the age of 21 to drink off-campus, but they allow this. Where is the consistency? There was not even a warning that the play would contain this content. One alumni even remarked that an actor got to swear at Messiah and get applauded for it. Isn't that a dangerous line of thinking, yet what is promoted by Messiah. Just some thoughts.

I AM A DOOFUS!!!!

If I did not say it before, I am a DOOFUS!!

See what happened is that I thought today was April 28th. Alas it is not, yesterday was April 28th and I missed something. My sister's birthday. How terrible am I? I didn't even wish her a happy birthday on her birthday. I feel so terrible. Like eating dirt. I am so so so sooooooooooo sorry! I hope that she will forgive me. I shall flood her with messages today wishing her a happy belated birthday from her dork of a brother.

And so it goes...

Last night, I had my first free night in three weeks. I know, crazy. Maybe I should slow down, but I am betting I won't. It's been fun and I have no ill effects from it. So, back to last night which was free. I went to Lowe's and bought myself a nice portable grill. I spent a good hour putting it together and then had some delicious burgers off of it. My first grilling of the season. I am sure that there will be many more. I think I am going to have to have a couple of get-togethers for some grilled food, in fact. Those of you who know me, stay tuned. Maybe a small group grillin'.

After I was done eating I had all of this time. What to do, what to do? I decided to read. I have done that in a while. I discovered something. I am extremely uncomfortable with silence. I was reading away with nothing else happening and it spooked me a little. Not that I was scared or anything, just a little uneased. Just because of silence. Interesting, huh.

Why do some people have sticks up their butts?

I am on the softball team at church. Last night we were going to have practice on a field that was just outside the development. So I get there and find out that we are not allowed to practice on the field. Why? Because one of the people in the development decided that they didn't like us practicing there. Were they going to use the field? No. Just wanted to cause trouble. Therefore we were not able to practice last night.

So what do I do? Practice is cancelled but I still would like to get some exercise on this beautiful day. So I decided to run on the fitness trail. Wow, did I forget how steep it was in parts. It isn't extreordinarily long, but still gives quite the workout with steep ups and downs. The good thing though is that it is covered in wood chips which is a fantastic running surface.

Well enough of that. I get together with a bunch of friends each week and play games. Last night we played Heroscape. Not bad. I almost won. I was in a pretty controlling position, but alas, due to some bad die rolls and good plays by others, I lost. Oh well. I had a good time hanging out.

Who is God to you?

Is God your obsession?

OBSESSION

What can I do with my obsession?
With the things I cannot see
Is there madness in my being?
Is it wind that blows the trees?
Sometimes you're further than the moon
Sometimes you're closer than my skin
And you surround me like a winter fog
You've come and burned me with a kiss

And my heart burns for you
And my heart burns

And I'm so filthy with my sin
I carry pride like a disease
You know I'm stubborn God and I'm longing
to be close
You burn me deeper than I know
I feel lonely without hope
I feel desperate without vision
You wrap around me like a winter coat
You come and free me like a bird

And my heart burns for you
And my heart burns for you

Written by Martin Smith ©1995 Curious? Music UK

Broken

Sometimes it seemes like God needs to recenter us. It seems the God chooses to do this to me by breaking me. This is not done usually by causing something bad to happen. It is done by mentally and emotionally breaking me. Today seems to be one of those days for me. It actually started for me yesterday. Certain things happen that focus me. Today it was extended by reading some of David Crowder's blog. The deepness that he is able to reach is incredible. He has no problem expressing his emotions. It also seems like he has a spotlight into me. I have never met the man and yet it seems like he knows me as well or maybe even better than some of my closest friends.

So back to God breaking me. It is usually something that I need. I usually get caught and distracted by life and God has to bring me back to Him. I have been too far from Him lately. I use the excuse of business, but that is not an excuse. That is something that I will rail other people for because it's lame. If I wanted to make time out for God, I would. Right now though, I have decided to slide Him down my priority list. Not good. God doesn't like this and to be honest neither do I, but complacency can sneak in. So God has chosen to break me. I have turned into a deep-thinking, emotional person today. God is slowly forcing me to think and dwell on Him. I need it. Nothing but good can come from this. That being said, I am having a really hard time focusing on anything else today. Work has been almost pointless because of this. It's hard to concentrate on anything. This much I know though...

...out of this will come a better me and a closer relationship with God...if I don't get lazy.

Some blogs to check out

DCB 1

DCB 2

Update

For my post 2 posts ago, the gentleman's name is Frank. It was at the Mechanicsburg Outback. So if you're ever over there, try to get him. It will be worth it.

My feet hurt

I have just finished a day of learning. It was a lot of information to take in. If you don't know, our church is moving into a new building. With that comes new technology. For those of you who don't know, one of my abilities is sound engineering. I have pretty extensive experience and have worked on many different boards. Let me clarify...analog boards. The board the church got for the new sanctuary? Digital. Let me quickly tell you the difference. With an analog board, all the buttons that are in front of you is all that the board does. With a digital board, the main part is the computer with a few buttons on the board to help run the software. Totally different mindset. Should be complex. After a day of training though, I must say that I think I have a pretty good handle on it. Not that I know everything or even close to everything, but I thnk that I could do a decent job tomorrow if I needed to run the board. I look forward to learning a lot more about it.

I don't knowing why I am writing about this because nobody else probably cares, but I am anyway. I guess just to say that I love to learn and this is another opportunity to soak in information.

Politeness can go a long way

Last night I enjoyed a nice meal at Outback. I got the very delicious Alice Springs chicken and it was everything I wanted it to be. In a very positive note, our waiter was very polite and did a good job. As my friend and I sat and talked, he continued to stop by. He had already taken the payment for the meal, yet still stopped by to make sure that we were doing okay and that we had enough water. Most of the time when you have paid, the waiter abandons you. Not this gentleman. I only wish I could remember his name. Maybe SM does.

Today I had the enjoyable fortune of having lunch with my uncle. I know what you are thinking. Lunch and dinner out in a days span. Well, yes, no matter how rare it is and trust me it's rare, this is just how schedules worked out for people. Anyway, back to lunch. My uncle works at Messiah as a professor of Chemistry and since I work 10 minutes from Messiah, we enjoy meeting up and chewing the proverbial fat. We went to Cracker Barrel which is a favorite of mine. I got the grilled Reuben sandwich. It was very delish. Two very enjoyable meals in a row.

In sports news, Manchester United lost to Everton yesterday 1-0. Good job Everton, I hope the Man U continues to lose.

All is right with the world

Looking at the baseball standings is a feel-good move for me right now. See, in sports, I have very strong dislike for two specific teams: the Duke Blue Devils of college basketball and the New York Yankees of the MLB. My favorite baseball team is the Baltimore Orioles. Right now, 14 games into the season, the Orioles are in first place in the AL East and the Yankees are in last. This is an absolutely wonderful thing.

For all of you Stars Wars fans, check out what they are doing in London. That's a long time to watch some movies. My other question is what order will they be shown in. The third one is missing. Nothing like taking an idea from Lord of the Rings.

I am going to the Outback this evening. I haven't been there in a while and really enjoy the food. It will be what I am sure is a very enjoyable time. If you have never had it, next time try something different and get the Alice Springs chicken. It is a great dish. Of course this assumes that you don't need or really want steak at a steak place.

Didn't know I was rich

Check it out. My own soccer team.

Heard the new Coldplay single today. Not bad. Although I must say that rather than progress in their music style, it seems that they have decided to stick with what they know. I haven't decided whether that is a bad or good thing.

Remember to thank God for everything that He has given you today.

As the world turns...

It's been a while. Here are some random musings over the past few days.

1. Car inspections are a good thing. Even though they cost money, they are a good check up. For a few bucks you get a professional to look at your car and see if there are issues. I had to get my front brakes replaced. I knew they weren't as good as they used to be, but i didn't know they were low enough to need replacement. So rather than lose my brakes while driving, I got them replaced.

2. It is nice to see college friends that you don't get to see often and catch up with them.

3. Practice helps. The more practice the better.

4. I will sometime win as the good guys in 'War of the Ring'.

5. Polaroid scavenger hunts can be a blast, especially with a bunch of high-schoolers.

6. Sports are more fun when you are playing well.

7. Life is short so if you can handle a busy schedule, pack that sucker as full as possible.

8. Moose don't like being touched.

9. God wants us to confess our sins so that He can do His magic and help us.

10. Why do lists need to have ten items?

God bless, and realize that we are here for His name and His renown.

The site undergoes changes

Well, I have finally gotten around to adding some links to my page here. They are right over there to your left. Check them out. I am sure that there will be additions to them, but as for now, that's what I got. At the bottom of the links are the blogs of 4 of my mates. A specific one that I would like to highlight just started yesterday. So check it out.

In futbol news today, the rest of the UEFA cup semifinals have been set. Yesterday Chelsea defeated Bayern Munich in aggregate and AC Milan most likely moved on against Inter Milan although the match was suspended with AC Milan leading 3-0 aggregate. Today Liverpool beat Juventus in the aggregate and PSV Eindhoven moved to the semis by beating Olympique Lyonnais in penalties. So it will be Liverpool v Chelsea and PSV Eindhoven v most likely AC Milan.

Boo on You, Microsoft

Recently, Internet Explorer has crashed on me. It just runs and runs. If I try to close it, it won't. So what do I do? I try the help on the website which is of no help. Microsoft puts out some major crap and has become popular. How? I don't know. So what have I done? I am using Netscape's browser and it is working wonderfully. It even blocks pop-ups for me. Yea for you, Netscape.

Also, I am going to shamelessly promote on of my favorite bands. The David Crowder Band is awesome. Very original. Check their website out.

Where Has It Gone?

Over the past half year or so, I have had the privilege of singing and playing guitar on the worship team for our church's kids program on Wednesday nights. About once a month, I show up and have fun. Last night was one such night. Something hit me as we were playing and singing. The kids were having fun. Not only having fun, but having fun worshipping God. If you walk into most any church on a Sunday morning, you will see a bunch of adults standing there motionless except for their mouths which will move just a tiny bit with the words of the songs being played. You may even see a hand raising or somebody clapping or swaying. Where did we lose the reckless abandon in worshipping God?

These kids last night were jumping up and down, spinning in circles, doing motions while singing at the top of their lungs to God. Where in our time of growing up do we learn that this is not the way to sing to God? We learn so much as we get older yet we also can lose some of the precious things that as kids we just do without caring. Next time you are worshipping God, think about how awesome He is. Don't worry about what everyone around you is doing, just do a bit of what the little kid inside of you wants to do. Then maybe bit by bit, we will realize that worshipping our AWESOME creator can and should be fun.

Aah, The Motherland

Lately I have been listening to Virgin Radio which broadcasts from England. Today I heard a Pizza Hut commercial for their four-in-one offering. Here in the USA we have Jessica Simpson and the Muppets in the commercials. So what do they offer over on the island. The commercial features pirates conversing with each other about the different toppings. It's interesting how different the advertising can be.

In concert news, Charlie Hall will be at Christian Life Assembly in Camp Hill, PA this friday. It promises to be a great show. Also appearing at the Harbour Coffeehouse, Saturday April 16 will be the Bobbleheads. That promises to be a wonderful show also.

In sports news, props to Baylor for demolishing Michigan State and in the process winning the NCAA Division 1 Women's basketball championship.

Here's the church...

So like I said last night, I went to Lancaster County Bible Church this past Sunday. I decided to go to their second service at 10:45. For a church of 5 or so thousand, I was surprised at the ease of parking. Props to them for having it organized and people showing you where to go. I walked in the door and was greeted by a friendly fellow and then released into their huge gathering area that was quite packed. I made my way into the auditorium. It is big. I found my most liked seat in the house and sat. They have their small groups on a schedule. They meet on certain days and take off the summer months. Neat idea. The bulletin was also informational and organized.

Now for the service. Via the bulletin I found out that Matt Goss was leading worship. I had wanted to hear their worship pastor because I had already heard Matt Goss at other places. The worship was awesome. Matt Goss was not playing with his band, but with other church volunteers. They had a rock band set-up and rocked the house. It was very refreshing for me.

The pastor spoke on the balance between work and family. There were a couple of videos (one had DC Talk's 'Time is Ticking Away') and a skit. The pastor was engaging and very good at communicating God's word in easy-to-understand terms.

Overall it was a great experience. I was very happy that I had decided to check it out. If anybody doesn't have a church home and doesn't mind a big church, I would recommend it.

Baltimore is in FIRST!!

What a day in sports. Just so you all know, the Orioles won today. That means that they are in first place in the AL East. This may be the only time this year, but I will rejoice in the fact anyway.

In other news, props to Illinois and UNC. First off to UNC who won the championship this evening. They played well and Roy finally got the monkey off his back. Also, props to Illinois. They were down by 15 and 10 points and came back and made it a game. Theyprobably shot too many threes which cost them the game. Either way, they had a great season and that can't be taken away from them. Still no one has won 38 games in the NCAA Division 1 ball.

In other news, I visited Lancaster County Bible Church this Sunday. Tomorrow I will tell you more about the experience.

Pennsylvania Peeves

Why are you still allowed to smoke inside in Pennsylvania? I was over at the Bear's Den this past weekend to watch to Final Four. In the midst of greatly enjoying the food and watching the game, I started to become annoyed. Two people at different tables around me lit up their ciggarettes with no concern for others. The consequences of second-hand smoke have been proven over and over. States everywhere are preventing smoking from occurring inside restaurants. But PA, nope. We seem to not have a problem with people causing health problems for other people. Oh well.

Opening for baseball is today. Yippee. I know a lot of people do not enjoy MLB, but I do. Hopefully my Orioles will pick it up this year and finish over .500. And my pick for the World Series is the Cardinals over the Twins.

In other news, props to a good gal pal of mine who got engaged over the weekend. May a life of happiness bless her and her soon-to-be hubby.

The Sky Screams

So last night at small group I had everyone write down their own interpretation of Psalm 19. It ended up being pretty cool. Everybody has a unique world view when they read and what they get out is different. Last night was no different. Each person focused on different parts of the Psalm and provided a learning experience. It was nice because I heard things in a way that I would have never come up with. If I only hear my thoughts I don't get a full perspective. This gave me a much broader perspective than I have ever had on the Psalm. A great experience given to my thought by Mr. David Crowder who wrote "Praise Habit: Finding God in Sunsets and Sushi' It is an awesome book that I recommend to all...and we had pizza too.

Yesterday I saw Final Four tickets being sold on E-bay. One person had two tickets and his required starting bid was $13000. OH MY WORD. Are you kidding me? The face value is between $250 and $500. I hate scalping. Real sports fans that want to see the games can't get tickets because everybody else buys them up and then resells the tickets for an outrageous sum of money. Something greatly wrong with society today.