(Reposting from an older site . . . the extreme weather made me pull this one up again.)
DEFENSIVE is an interesting word. I used it recently when explaining something to my kids. We were talking about DRIVING and following the Rules of the Road. I explained that when I started driving, my Dad taught me many things. He said that DRIVING was a PRIVELEDGE – one that I had to EARN and one that I had to work hard to KEEP. And above all else – I needed to be DEFENSIVE.As I grew older – I was often told, by my Dad, that I was "too defensive" about personal things. That I needed to "relax" and not be "so defensive".
How is it that one word can be a positive and a negative?
As I grow older, I have discovered that in all things, there is a BALANCE. As I’ve stated many times, I reference definitions a lot, so bare with me. One definition for the emotional DEFENSE is this: "excessively concerned with guarding against the real or imagined threat of criticism, injury to one's ego, or exposure of one's shortcomings."Although we should be mindful not to overreact to things, if we were to FOCUS on that first part of this particular definition - "excessively concerned with guarding against (a) real or imagined threat" – we MIGHT see that the balance is already in there.
Back to DRIVING. I have been watching the news and reading about the effects of the winter weather – especially in the upper states. I have been paying close attention to the comments and complaints of the public and that of the local agencies.Here are a few clips from the news:
The PUBLIC:"Why would they have that exit open if they were just going to let us sit there?" from a woman who was stranded on the road for over 20 hours with her 5-year old sick son."How could you operate a state like this? It's totally disgusting," a hyperglycemic man, who was trapped for over 20 hours with his girlfriend and pregnant daughter.
THE RESPONDERS:"Guardsmen in Humvees ferried food, fuel and baby supplies to hundreds of motorists stranded on a 50-mile stretch of highway for nearly 24 hours."
My Dad, taught me to be a defensive driver. My Dad taught me to be ALERT. My Dad taught me that it was MY JOB to pay attention to the CONDITIONS of the road and to PREPARE for ANYTHING. That, if the weather was not safe - stay off the roads. I was taught to service my car regularly and to pay attention to the little things. I was taught to pay attention to the ELEMENTS and have SUPPLIES in the car in case I got stranded.
NOW, much older and partnered with a Director who is adamant about being PREPARED, it has become my own passion to REMIND my children and hopefully friends, family and even the public that it is THEIR job to Be Alert, Pay Attention, Be Prepared for all things and above all else . . . STAY DEFENSIVE.
Thanks, Dad . . . I continue in defense with the integrity you instilled in me . . .
Thursday, January 31, 2008
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
‘Greater Understanding makes for Happy Feet’
My grandma used to tell me not to worry about the size of my feet ‘Big feet just means you’re going to have good UNDER-standing, Sweetie’. I wear a 9 ½ - 10 depending on the shoe. My grandma knew a thing or two for my feet are proportioned well for my height . . . well for my purpose . . .
A friend of mine came up to me at work the other morning and chatted for a bit. We were speaking about movies and sound tracks. Knowing that I have children, she asked if I had ever seen the film, “Happy Feet” (Animated film about a penguin in an ‘ugly duckling’ scenario). I shared that I hadn’t as my kids had seen it with their father. She raved about it . . . then said, “I really loved it but I think it’s BECAUSE I saw ‘March of the Penguins’ (documentary about penguins) a few weeks BEFORE”. She explained that she had a greater understanding of the little nuances of the animated film – why the singing was such a big part – why the little guy was ostracized at first . . . she told me about some of the habits and ‘customs’ of the penguins and then said, “I’m not sure if everyone else understood all those things or just missed out on the full meaning of everything.” (Wise woman, Trace) To which I said, “It’s amazing what one SEE’s when one has a greater understanding of the HISTORY of something.”
When I begin anything new, I dedicate a few extra minutes to the history of the project. When I meet someone for the first time, I take a few minutes – and maybe many more if the relationship – business, friend or family – allows it to find out from where this one comes. It is amazing what a small piece of information can do in the greater understanding of things. Recently, I had a meeting with an elderly gentleman whom I had met briefly before. This time, we had a few extra minutes so I asked him three things: “I am assuming you are first generation American, from where did you come?” ‘Yes – Germany’. “When did you move here?”, ‘1946’ and “What was your profession?” ‘Tool-Maker’. In three little questions, I understood the essence of the man that stood before me . . . and his character ultimately aligned with my new insight of him for he sought me out to fullfill a promise he had made to me in our first meeting.
One thing is often REVEALED with the help of another. One cannot fully understand the NEW without looking deeper at the OLD. Such is the case with scripture.
As we ended our conversation that morning, this friend and I (well, we had to work, you know), I shared with her that UNTIL I took the time to study scripture . . . my church experience wasn’t all that great. After I started putting in the effort to seek further, every service seemed to send me away with something new. I received a greater RETURN every time I deposited TIME into the effort.
It’s always there . . . greater understanding, that is . . . one just needs find the right shoes.
A friend of mine came up to me at work the other morning and chatted for a bit. We were speaking about movies and sound tracks. Knowing that I have children, she asked if I had ever seen the film, “Happy Feet” (Animated film about a penguin in an ‘ugly duckling’ scenario). I shared that I hadn’t as my kids had seen it with their father. She raved about it . . . then said, “I really loved it but I think it’s BECAUSE I saw ‘March of the Penguins’ (documentary about penguins) a few weeks BEFORE”. She explained that she had a greater understanding of the little nuances of the animated film – why the singing was such a big part – why the little guy was ostracized at first . . . she told me about some of the habits and ‘customs’ of the penguins and then said, “I’m not sure if everyone else understood all those things or just missed out on the full meaning of everything.” (Wise woman, Trace) To which I said, “It’s amazing what one SEE’s when one has a greater understanding of the HISTORY of something.”
When I begin anything new, I dedicate a few extra minutes to the history of the project. When I meet someone for the first time, I take a few minutes – and maybe many more if the relationship – business, friend or family – allows it to find out from where this one comes. It is amazing what a small piece of information can do in the greater understanding of things. Recently, I had a meeting with an elderly gentleman whom I had met briefly before. This time, we had a few extra minutes so I asked him three things: “I am assuming you are first generation American, from where did you come?” ‘Yes – Germany’. “When did you move here?”, ‘1946’ and “What was your profession?” ‘Tool-Maker’. In three little questions, I understood the essence of the man that stood before me . . . and his character ultimately aligned with my new insight of him for he sought me out to fullfill a promise he had made to me in our first meeting.
One thing is often REVEALED with the help of another. One cannot fully understand the NEW without looking deeper at the OLD. Such is the case with scripture.
As we ended our conversation that morning, this friend and I (well, we had to work, you know), I shared with her that UNTIL I took the time to study scripture . . . my church experience wasn’t all that great. After I started putting in the effort to seek further, every service seemed to send me away with something new. I received a greater RETURN every time I deposited TIME into the effort.
It’s always there . . . greater understanding, that is . . . one just needs find the right shoes.
Sunday, January 27, 2008
'Very Simply . . . God won’t bother’
Risking daggers again, but this needs to be shared. Please see my heart.
As a parent, I LOVE all three of my children the same amount. I DELIGHT in their individuality. I TAKE PRIDE in their abilities and continued growth. I DESIRE for each of them to BE good and to DO good and in doing so, desire for them to HAVE happiness and success. Most times, I want NOTHING MORE than to just spend time with them. But, I have to be honest - I struggle to WANT to spend time with them when they are being difficult and do nothing to change.
I struggle when they come to me with complaints but refuse the guidance I lay out for them – or worse yet, agree to follow my guidance and then change it to suit their comfort needs. I struggle with this, because they ALWAYS come back and complain more and even blame ME for the effects of their poor choices as if I should have done more.
My two older children have made the following statements to me, “You love (so & so) more than me.” A comment I usually IGNORE. I finally sat them down when they were old enough and said, “Look, I love you both, but I do not enjoy spending time with you when you treat me like this. I will love you always – nothing you do will make me stop loving you, but I will NOT CHASE YOU and I will not sit with you if you choose to act this way. Trust me, I have other things that are more enjoyable for me. When you are ready to change your attitude, you know WHERE to find me.”
I have noticed, in myself, that WHEN one of my children is struggling, I literally HURT inside for them. I want so badly for them to make the right choices but I often grow weary of trying with them. I am literally TURNED OFF by their behavior and have to LIMIT my participation with them lest I rage out at them. When they DO finally start to come around, it’s as if I SEE THEM out of the corner of my eye, making a small change. While I am spending time with the other two, I keep one eye ever present on the third – just watching . . . waiting . . . hoping for a change in attitude. Then I start to see it – but I don’t pull away from the other two as they deserve my full attention at that time. I wait for the wandering one to make the FIRST EFFORT to come our way . . . I open the circle of activity just enough to see if they are willing to put themselves out there for me. And when I see the effort made, I often have to hold back my JOY and eagerly wait for the RIGHT MOMENT to wrap my arms around my child and say, “WELL DONE . . . I am so proud of that decision and effort”. I usually cannot wait to BLESS them with something FROM ME.
Hopefully you will see where I am going with this. In the same manner as I am with my children, God grows WEARY of our habitual behaviors. He grows weary of our lackadaisical efforts. He is WAITING for us to DISTRACT HIM with our renewed efforts.
For those of you who may still not get it . . . get off your couch, stop complaining and give God a REASON to pay attention to you.
As a parent, I LOVE all three of my children the same amount. I DELIGHT in their individuality. I TAKE PRIDE in their abilities and continued growth. I DESIRE for each of them to BE good and to DO good and in doing so, desire for them to HAVE happiness and success. Most times, I want NOTHING MORE than to just spend time with them. But, I have to be honest - I struggle to WANT to spend time with them when they are being difficult and do nothing to change.
I struggle when they come to me with complaints but refuse the guidance I lay out for them – or worse yet, agree to follow my guidance and then change it to suit their comfort needs. I struggle with this, because they ALWAYS come back and complain more and even blame ME for the effects of their poor choices as if I should have done more.
My two older children have made the following statements to me, “You love (so & so) more than me.” A comment I usually IGNORE. I finally sat them down when they were old enough and said, “Look, I love you both, but I do not enjoy spending time with you when you treat me like this. I will love you always – nothing you do will make me stop loving you, but I will NOT CHASE YOU and I will not sit with you if you choose to act this way. Trust me, I have other things that are more enjoyable for me. When you are ready to change your attitude, you know WHERE to find me.”
I have noticed, in myself, that WHEN one of my children is struggling, I literally HURT inside for them. I want so badly for them to make the right choices but I often grow weary of trying with them. I am literally TURNED OFF by their behavior and have to LIMIT my participation with them lest I rage out at them. When they DO finally start to come around, it’s as if I SEE THEM out of the corner of my eye, making a small change. While I am spending time with the other two, I keep one eye ever present on the third – just watching . . . waiting . . . hoping for a change in attitude. Then I start to see it – but I don’t pull away from the other two as they deserve my full attention at that time. I wait for the wandering one to make the FIRST EFFORT to come our way . . . I open the circle of activity just enough to see if they are willing to put themselves out there for me. And when I see the effort made, I often have to hold back my JOY and eagerly wait for the RIGHT MOMENT to wrap my arms around my child and say, “WELL DONE . . . I am so proud of that decision and effort”. I usually cannot wait to BLESS them with something FROM ME.
Hopefully you will see where I am going with this. In the same manner as I am with my children, God grows WEARY of our habitual behaviors. He grows weary of our lackadaisical efforts. He is WAITING for us to DISTRACT HIM with our renewed efforts.
For those of you who may still not get it . . . get off your couch, stop complaining and give God a REASON to pay attention to you.
‘Follow that Yellow Brick Road’
In keeping theme, let’s go with another film analogy. Only this time I will begin with reference to a rather unusual sermon. Yes, a while back, a friend of mine delivered an incredible sermon on ‘The Wizard of Oz’ and until then, I had never viewed this movie under this light. I hadn’t seen this movie for quite some time but since then, it doesn’t seem possible that I could have missed these messages all these years. I will not recap the actual sermon for I could not do it justice, but I will point out a few things that I have recognized since then:
1) There is a definite ROAD that we must all be on. Veering from this road will, not only cause us harm and heartache, but it will cause us to wander aimlessly into dry and dusty terrains . . . sometimes for long periods of time.
2) We are all born with an innate drive to SEEK OUT the one that has all the answers. Most of us have no clue what or why we feel the initial need to seek.
3) Just like Dorothy, most of us spend so much time looking to specific things to help us get ‘HOME’. The power was never in her efforts but rather in the gift that she received when she first arrived. Dorothy was given a gift of RED SLIPPERS – a covering to keep her safe on her journey, without which, she would perish. She found peace and guidance in Glenda and eventually realized the mighty power of 3.
4) Scarecrow just wanted a BRAIN. He felt because he was just made out of hay – a simple stuffing, that he was somehow less in his abilities. When he initially tried to THINK too much, he got frustrated. He ended up being the wiser one because he eventually allowed the knowledge to come from WITHIN.
5) TINMAN just wanted a HEART. He convinced himself that because he felt empty inside, he didn’t have one. Oddly enough, when he placed himself in situations that needed one, he always had the biggest heart. Scientific fact – the heart is a muscle – when a muscle is not used regularly, it becomes weak and even hardens – atrophy, it’s called.
6) LION just wanted COURAGE. He kept to himself and feared stepping out but once he had others to think about, he was able to rise above his fear to act courageous. His initial fear also gave him a reverence for things greater than he.
7) While each one had his/her specific goal, they were ALL willing to sacrifice for the greater good. Each one for Dorothy and Dorothy for each of them. Sacrificing for the others was imperative to their journey.
8) The witch, while seeming obvious - look again - for her character was troublesome during the stint in OZ, but when Dorothy awoke, her troubling neighbor was actually quite kind - having a change of heart BECAUSE of the example of Dorothy and her family.
The questionable character was TOTO, you know her ‘little black dog’ - while appearing all cute and cuddly . . . he was often the source of many of Dorothy’s problems and derailments . . . perhaps we’ll save this one for a later time.
1) There is a definite ROAD that we must all be on. Veering from this road will, not only cause us harm and heartache, but it will cause us to wander aimlessly into dry and dusty terrains . . . sometimes for long periods of time.
2) We are all born with an innate drive to SEEK OUT the one that has all the answers. Most of us have no clue what or why we feel the initial need to seek.
3) Just like Dorothy, most of us spend so much time looking to specific things to help us get ‘HOME’. The power was never in her efforts but rather in the gift that she received when she first arrived. Dorothy was given a gift of RED SLIPPERS – a covering to keep her safe on her journey, without which, she would perish. She found peace and guidance in Glenda and eventually realized the mighty power of 3.
4) Scarecrow just wanted a BRAIN. He felt because he was just made out of hay – a simple stuffing, that he was somehow less in his abilities. When he initially tried to THINK too much, he got frustrated. He ended up being the wiser one because he eventually allowed the knowledge to come from WITHIN.
5) TINMAN just wanted a HEART. He convinced himself that because he felt empty inside, he didn’t have one. Oddly enough, when he placed himself in situations that needed one, he always had the biggest heart. Scientific fact – the heart is a muscle – when a muscle is not used regularly, it becomes weak and even hardens – atrophy, it’s called.
6) LION just wanted COURAGE. He kept to himself and feared stepping out but once he had others to think about, he was able to rise above his fear to act courageous. His initial fear also gave him a reverence for things greater than he.
7) While each one had his/her specific goal, they were ALL willing to sacrifice for the greater good. Each one for Dorothy and Dorothy for each of them. Sacrificing for the others was imperative to their journey.
8) The witch, while seeming obvious - look again - for her character was troublesome during the stint in OZ, but when Dorothy awoke, her troubling neighbor was actually quite kind - having a change of heart BECAUSE of the example of Dorothy and her family.
The questionable character was TOTO, you know her ‘little black dog’ - while appearing all cute and cuddly . . . he was often the source of many of Dorothy’s problems and derailments . . . perhaps we’ll save this one for a later time.
‘Out of the mouths of Babes . . . ‘
My Niece had to write a school paper entitled, “Why I am an American Patriot”. She keyed in on something many of us may not have, given the same assignment.
“I don’t think that you have to serve in the military to become a Patriot. My definition of an American Patriot is someone who cares about their country and others enough to give up their time or life for someone else. It doesn’t have to be extreme like fighting over seas; it could be something simple like picking up trash in a park.”
Yeah . . . definition time:
Patriot - a person who loves, supports, and defends his or her country and its interests with devotion.
Did you catch that last part? . . . ‘and its interests’ . . . DEFENDS its interests WITH DEVOTION.
We often forget to read to the period. There are so many great people who live out the most common understanding of this word. Let us never forget the many who live out the greater understanding of this word.
Thanks Elle . . . may your eyes be forever fine-tuned as you continue to grow into an exceptional young woman.
“I don’t think that you have to serve in the military to become a Patriot. My definition of an American Patriot is someone who cares about their country and others enough to give up their time or life for someone else. It doesn’t have to be extreme like fighting over seas; it could be something simple like picking up trash in a park.”
Yeah . . . definition time:
Patriot - a person who loves, supports, and defends his or her country and its interests with devotion.
Did you catch that last part? . . . ‘and its interests’ . . . DEFENDS its interests WITH DEVOTION.
We often forget to read to the period. There are so many great people who live out the most common understanding of this word. Let us never forget the many who live out the greater understanding of this word.
Thanks Elle . . . may your eyes be forever fine-tuned as you continue to grow into an exceptional young woman.
Saturday, January 26, 2008
‘SIDESBAR, please . . . '
Those closest to me know that my original career move, fresh out of college was feature film work. I had gone back and forth from theatre to film and finally concentrated on film eventually getting lucky to work a few years in the local industry in Illinois. Looking back, one of my college projects had been to create a short black/white, silent narrative. With a budget next to nothing, old college camera gear and lighting, the assistance of my friends and a few starving actor wannabes, I created a short film that transitions from what appeared to be real life in the first story to that of a TV show in the second story. The second story now had it’s characters viewing the TV show of the first story and that story eventually becomes a film for the third story which had the TV show of the first with the story line of the second on the screen for the characters of the third . . . you get the idea. I entitled it, “Real to Reel”. It was actually very fun and while I honestly thought up the concept all by myself, I later discovered the idea itself was not really a new one – nothing under this sun, you know.
All this to say, I have always been a very visual person and because of this, so many of my analogies revolve around the visual . . . I see TRUTH in ALL things . . . but films are by far, one of my most fun to look at because they are created with a specific idea from the get-go. God presents Himself in ALL things whether the writer intends it or not – it’s an over-riding factor. He’s just waiting for someone to take notice.
It never stops amazing me that what we begin with often stays with us, but the nuances may shift some for now I, more often than not, will see the REAL out of the REEL for the WORD becomes a living, breathing Spirit that ignites insights in the most unusual things.
Sometimes, my head almost hurts at all that I see these days. But I hope it never stops . . . because, trust me . . . nothing compares.
All this to say, I have always been a very visual person and because of this, so many of my analogies revolve around the visual . . . I see TRUTH in ALL things . . . but films are by far, one of my most fun to look at because they are created with a specific idea from the get-go. God presents Himself in ALL things whether the writer intends it or not – it’s an over-riding factor. He’s just waiting for someone to take notice.
It never stops amazing me that what we begin with often stays with us, but the nuances may shift some for now I, more often than not, will see the REAL out of the REEL for the WORD becomes a living, breathing Spirit that ignites insights in the most unusual things.
Sometimes, my head almost hurts at all that I see these days. But I hope it never stops . . . because, trust me . . . nothing compares.
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
‘Run Forest . . . Run’
My 11 year old son has recently gotten very interested in ‘Forest Gump’. If you know anything about that movie, you know that it is VERY long. My son seems to turn the channel at precisely the right moment when the re-run is showing. Oddly enough, though, he seems to catch it right at the same spot in the movie and never gets to see the beginning when the line, “Run Forest . . .’ is actually shared. Guess I’ll be caving to rent it if his luck doesn’t change here soon.
I am forever amazed at what can be revealed from things that we FEEL we are so familiar with. I could probably have rattled things off from that movie thinking I know a thing or two, but sitting there with my son for a while I saw something I had never seen before. Coming out of the part where Forest had been running for three years straight and wiped his face on that yellow tee-shirt, my son began to ask me if this was a true story, “did this guy really do all these things mom?” I kind of chuckled, and said, ‘No, I see it as just a sweet movie about a simple man who is blessed because he is so simple and loving.’ Many have commentaries on what the movie is mainly about and most hit upon the negative that while he accomplishes all these great things with his simple mind, his true love always eludes him. But there is actually something quite inspiring that many may not see.
Forest, was blessed by so much because he walked in PEACE. Aside from the moments he was sad for Jenny, he was generally happy – and let’s not forget he ended up getting her in the end. While he appeared to have only a small time with Jenny, he actually had a life time with her in his heart and he had a piece of her that lived on in their son. Forest Gump was CONTENT with his life. Something you don’t see much in our society.
Realizing all this, it made me wonder even more . . . do most people ever stop their lives long enough to consider HOW they are living their life?
Now, I’m not suggesting that we all become simple-minded in the manner he was, but I AM suggesting we become more , well . . . ‘simple-minded’. We are taught to THINK too much. We WORRY ourselves with many of the things we were never meant to worry about and we ultimately end up grumbling through life (been there, done that).
It finally makes sense to me . . . ‘Refinement’, that is. We are so often tossed into a life that brings about trials and what often feels like unbearable heart-ache at times . . . only to find ourselves on the other side walking in a little more peace or perhaps patience. Over the years of maturity, we are lucky to fall into several of these attributes . . . which is the main goal of the refinement process, you see.
Galatians 5 spells it out pretty clearly – esp. 5:22-23(a) ‘But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control . . . ‘
Forest Gump – displayed ALL of these. Nine simple attributes that, BECAUSE of his simple-mind, he never had to TRAIN for or be put through the refining fires that many of us find our self’s in . . . he just DID. And because of this, he walked in peace and he was continually blessed. And the greatest of these is LOVE . . . above all else . . . he loved . . . unconditionally.
Hmmmmmmm . . . one might still bulk that this is ONLY a movie, based on a book . . . but think again. There’s one book with this same story that’s been around longer.
Before you turn another calendar page, you might want to consider pushing that STOP BUTTON and really think about this: “Is WHAT you are striving for and HOW you are going about it bearing any fruit?” Please do not misinterpret this as meaning a measure of financial success – for it has nothing to do with money and EVERYTHING to do with what is becoming successful IN YOU.
So, just as Jenny says to Forest and just as Paul suggests to us in Hebrews 12:1 – “Run, Forest . . . Run . . .”
I am forever amazed at what can be revealed from things that we FEEL we are so familiar with. I could probably have rattled things off from that movie thinking I know a thing or two, but sitting there with my son for a while I saw something I had never seen before. Coming out of the part where Forest had been running for three years straight and wiped his face on that yellow tee-shirt, my son began to ask me if this was a true story, “did this guy really do all these things mom?” I kind of chuckled, and said, ‘No, I see it as just a sweet movie about a simple man who is blessed because he is so simple and loving.’ Many have commentaries on what the movie is mainly about and most hit upon the negative that while he accomplishes all these great things with his simple mind, his true love always eludes him. But there is actually something quite inspiring that many may not see.
Forest, was blessed by so much because he walked in PEACE. Aside from the moments he was sad for Jenny, he was generally happy – and let’s not forget he ended up getting her in the end. While he appeared to have only a small time with Jenny, he actually had a life time with her in his heart and he had a piece of her that lived on in their son. Forest Gump was CONTENT with his life. Something you don’t see much in our society.
Realizing all this, it made me wonder even more . . . do most people ever stop their lives long enough to consider HOW they are living their life?
Now, I’m not suggesting that we all become simple-minded in the manner he was, but I AM suggesting we become more , well . . . ‘simple-minded’. We are taught to THINK too much. We WORRY ourselves with many of the things we were never meant to worry about and we ultimately end up grumbling through life (been there, done that).
It finally makes sense to me . . . ‘Refinement’, that is. We are so often tossed into a life that brings about trials and what often feels like unbearable heart-ache at times . . . only to find ourselves on the other side walking in a little more peace or perhaps patience. Over the years of maturity, we are lucky to fall into several of these attributes . . . which is the main goal of the refinement process, you see.
Galatians 5 spells it out pretty clearly – esp. 5:22-23(a) ‘But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control . . . ‘
Forest Gump – displayed ALL of these. Nine simple attributes that, BECAUSE of his simple-mind, he never had to TRAIN for or be put through the refining fires that many of us find our self’s in . . . he just DID. And because of this, he walked in peace and he was continually blessed. And the greatest of these is LOVE . . . above all else . . . he loved . . . unconditionally.
Hmmmmmmm . . . one might still bulk that this is ONLY a movie, based on a book . . . but think again. There’s one book with this same story that’s been around longer.
Before you turn another calendar page, you might want to consider pushing that STOP BUTTON and really think about this: “Is WHAT you are striving for and HOW you are going about it bearing any fruit?” Please do not misinterpret this as meaning a measure of financial success – for it has nothing to do with money and EVERYTHING to do with what is becoming successful IN YOU.
So, just as Jenny says to Forest and just as Paul suggests to us in Hebrews 12:1 – “Run, Forest . . . Run . . .”
Sunday, January 13, 2008
‘Instructions need not Apply’
‘Giftings’ . . . we all claim to have them. Most of us actually WANT them, although I know a few who have grown weary because of them.
Gifting – (one of the definitions) - A talent, endowment, aptitude, or inclination.
Talent – (one def.) a power of mind or body considered as given to a person for use and improvement: so called from the parable in Matt. 25:14–30.
Endowment- (one def.) an attribute of mind or body; a gift of nature
Aptitude – (one def.) readiness or quickness in learning; intelligence
Inclination – (one def.) a disposition or bent, esp. of the mind or will; a liking or preference.
Wow – never took the time to look into this definition until now. I could go on a rant with just this definition alone. It amazes me how so many of us never take the time to really SEE the way something is presented. The WAY something is presented is most times an indication of a deeper meaning. It is often the main reason for misinterpretations of scripture.
The definition above has a very important clue if you care to see it. ‘a talent, endowment, aptitude OR inclination. The use of the word ‘OR’ is meant to point out that this word can mean one of these OR the other – but not together – not a whole.
Inclination is the defining word that I will focus on for this entry – because, yep, you guessed it – it points out a ‘preference’ – a preferred choice to lean one way in particular.
Many who CLAIM to have a specific ‘Gift’ will most likely ACT in a manner that is understood solely by the guided understanding of that gift. A teacher will see only through the eyes of one who teaches, an administrator with only the eyes of one who administers . . . and so on.
Again, I could write several pages on this understanding alone. However, the purpose of this entry is to point out something all together different. When one decides to work in the parameters of their ‘gifting’, there is all together a whole other issue and that is of understanding the LIMITATIONS of that gifting. If only it would come with an ‘Owner’s Manual’ – oh, that’s right – it does, but – once again - many fail to READ IT.
Perhaps some churches do this already – after the last entry, I will be the first to admit I have not taken the time to look into this – providing an owner’s manual, that is - in addition to the Word.
Now, as with all things, I hope you realize by now that I WILL NOT speak on ANYTHING that I have not had the chance to personally fumble through. It is because I have errored in these areas that I speak so passionately about them.
I specifically went to the owner’s manual of one of my TOOLS. Because that is what a gifting really is, is it not – a tool to being effective in change ????
Under Operator’s Manual, I found several notations but will focus on just a few:
Installation and Operating – sounds pretty obvious – with a gifting, we FEEL it has been installed in us and we therefore OPERATE in our own understanding of this gifting – hopefully we seek COUNSEL in this area.
Maintenance and Repair – wow, possibly an area we fail to oversee. Any sound service group understands that one needs to CONTINUE to maintain and repair through regular check-ups. Again – could spend several pages on this one alone.
Safety Warnings – What may appear as the obvious is often times overlooked and many an accident has come from improper USE of the gifting.
Which brings me to the KEY point of this whole entry.
‘Intended Use’- Again, this often appears as an obvious, but many SELDOM take the time to really look into this part. Rather than take the time to understand what each gifting is, we often rip open our new tool and start using it before we find out anything about it’s INTENDED USE. I have found the hard way, that there are definite times these gifts SHOULD NOT be used. Perhaps if I had taken the time to thoroughly READ the 'intended useage', some of the my fender-benders may not have happened.
As you continue in your own digging, please be mindful to read the instructions BEFORE beginning anything . . . and don’t forget to go back and read the instructions on those tools you’ve been using for quite some time . . . you might be surprised by what you’ve forgotten or perhaps never knew.
Gifting – (one of the definitions) - A talent, endowment, aptitude, or inclination.
Talent – (one def.) a power of mind or body considered as given to a person for use and improvement: so called from the parable in Matt. 25:14–30.
Endowment- (one def.) an attribute of mind or body; a gift of nature
Aptitude – (one def.) readiness or quickness in learning; intelligence
Inclination – (one def.) a disposition or bent, esp. of the mind or will; a liking or preference.
Wow – never took the time to look into this definition until now. I could go on a rant with just this definition alone. It amazes me how so many of us never take the time to really SEE the way something is presented. The WAY something is presented is most times an indication of a deeper meaning. It is often the main reason for misinterpretations of scripture.
The definition above has a very important clue if you care to see it. ‘a talent, endowment, aptitude OR inclination. The use of the word ‘OR’ is meant to point out that this word can mean one of these OR the other – but not together – not a whole.
Inclination is the defining word that I will focus on for this entry – because, yep, you guessed it – it points out a ‘preference’ – a preferred choice to lean one way in particular.
Many who CLAIM to have a specific ‘Gift’ will most likely ACT in a manner that is understood solely by the guided understanding of that gift. A teacher will see only through the eyes of one who teaches, an administrator with only the eyes of one who administers . . . and so on.
Again, I could write several pages on this understanding alone. However, the purpose of this entry is to point out something all together different. When one decides to work in the parameters of their ‘gifting’, there is all together a whole other issue and that is of understanding the LIMITATIONS of that gifting. If only it would come with an ‘Owner’s Manual’ – oh, that’s right – it does, but – once again - many fail to READ IT.
Perhaps some churches do this already – after the last entry, I will be the first to admit I have not taken the time to look into this – providing an owner’s manual, that is - in addition to the Word.
Now, as with all things, I hope you realize by now that I WILL NOT speak on ANYTHING that I have not had the chance to personally fumble through. It is because I have errored in these areas that I speak so passionately about them.
I specifically went to the owner’s manual of one of my TOOLS. Because that is what a gifting really is, is it not – a tool to being effective in change ????
Under Operator’s Manual, I found several notations but will focus on just a few:
Installation and Operating – sounds pretty obvious – with a gifting, we FEEL it has been installed in us and we therefore OPERATE in our own understanding of this gifting – hopefully we seek COUNSEL in this area.
Maintenance and Repair – wow, possibly an area we fail to oversee. Any sound service group understands that one needs to CONTINUE to maintain and repair through regular check-ups. Again – could spend several pages on this one alone.
Safety Warnings – What may appear as the obvious is often times overlooked and many an accident has come from improper USE of the gifting.
Which brings me to the KEY point of this whole entry.
‘Intended Use’- Again, this often appears as an obvious, but many SELDOM take the time to really look into this part. Rather than take the time to understand what each gifting is, we often rip open our new tool and start using it before we find out anything about it’s INTENDED USE. I have found the hard way, that there are definite times these gifts SHOULD NOT be used. Perhaps if I had taken the time to thoroughly READ the 'intended useage', some of the my fender-benders may not have happened.
As you continue in your own digging, please be mindful to read the instructions BEFORE beginning anything . . . and don’t forget to go back and read the instructions on those tools you’ve been using for quite some time . . . you might be surprised by what you’ve forgotten or perhaps never knew.
'Sound Sources'
Ok, just for the record – for those of you keeping track - football players are NOT the only ones who FUMBLE. I did it again, just recently with something that I, one would think, should have known better not to.
Recently, I received that very popular email that is going around about Barack Obama. I received it from a friend whom I have grown to love and respect. A day or so later, I received another email – from someone on this person’s list who, very gently, reminded us all of the need to take these emails to another source to seek FACTS before we hit ‘forward’.
Now, I have known about these fact-seeking websites and have used them before – but did not do so with this particular email. In fact, I had had a discussion on this email before not agreeing but not disputing and failed to see the great fumble that I had gotten myself into. I say that I should have known to check out facts because this – of all things – has, yes, once again, been that soapbox of mine over these last few years (people will perceive what they want – without looking into the facts of something). Because my life has changed so much, I have been under much scrutiny for making certain changes in my life - for the way I now live my life – not many have come to me to find out the WHY’s of these things bit instead, have made their judgements based on the way they believe things should be rather than what they really are.
While I did not forward this email, I STILL fell back on old habits with even the smallest thing – like the LACK of looking into the SOURCE for my own knowledge. I took something at face value. I had done so, because a few weeks earlier – another friend of mine, someone who takes pride in finding out FACTS, had also passed this along. Because, again, I knew the character of this other person, I did not feel the need to check it out further and so my fumble really began back then – my how long a football field can really be.
We often place SO MUCH TRUST in a person or THING that we often become lazy in our efforts to seek TRUTH.
The kicker in all this (hey, just analogizing in the spirit of the football season) is that we don’t even know if those fact-finding sources are indeed factual.
So the question remains . . . WHO and WHAT do we ultimately believe?
I choose to accept certain pieces of information that I – MYSELF – have uncovered as truth, applying the principles that Scripture reveals and to do so with another underlying truth that there is ALWAYS more than meets the eye – there are always two sides to every story. And then, I need to continually REMIND myself to do these very things in each and every situation . . . perhaps the hardest part of all.
By the way, if you are interested, when I went to one of those sources – it paralleled Claims with Facts – ironically enough, most of the claims had included many of the facts. But the FINE DETAILS were different (we twist truths to SEE and HEAR what we want to see and hear in every situation).
Many of the facts used are slated as being quotes from Mr. Obama’s own book – his own words. Now the question is, ‘is that really what his book quotes?’ . . . I don’t know, I never read his book . . .
May your tools remain sound as you continue to dig . . .
Recently, I received that very popular email that is going around about Barack Obama. I received it from a friend whom I have grown to love and respect. A day or so later, I received another email – from someone on this person’s list who, very gently, reminded us all of the need to take these emails to another source to seek FACTS before we hit ‘forward’.
Now, I have known about these fact-seeking websites and have used them before – but did not do so with this particular email. In fact, I had had a discussion on this email before not agreeing but not disputing and failed to see the great fumble that I had gotten myself into. I say that I should have known to check out facts because this – of all things – has, yes, once again, been that soapbox of mine over these last few years (people will perceive what they want – without looking into the facts of something). Because my life has changed so much, I have been under much scrutiny for making certain changes in my life - for the way I now live my life – not many have come to me to find out the WHY’s of these things bit instead, have made their judgements based on the way they believe things should be rather than what they really are.
While I did not forward this email, I STILL fell back on old habits with even the smallest thing – like the LACK of looking into the SOURCE for my own knowledge. I took something at face value. I had done so, because a few weeks earlier – another friend of mine, someone who takes pride in finding out FACTS, had also passed this along. Because, again, I knew the character of this other person, I did not feel the need to check it out further and so my fumble really began back then – my how long a football field can really be.
We often place SO MUCH TRUST in a person or THING that we often become lazy in our efforts to seek TRUTH.
The kicker in all this (hey, just analogizing in the spirit of the football season) is that we don’t even know if those fact-finding sources are indeed factual.
So the question remains . . . WHO and WHAT do we ultimately believe?
I choose to accept certain pieces of information that I – MYSELF – have uncovered as truth, applying the principles that Scripture reveals and to do so with another underlying truth that there is ALWAYS more than meets the eye – there are always two sides to every story. And then, I need to continually REMIND myself to do these very things in each and every situation . . . perhaps the hardest part of all.
By the way, if you are interested, when I went to one of those sources – it paralleled Claims with Facts – ironically enough, most of the claims had included many of the facts. But the FINE DETAILS were different (we twist truths to SEE and HEAR what we want to see and hear in every situation).
Many of the facts used are slated as being quotes from Mr. Obama’s own book – his own words. Now the question is, ‘is that really what his book quotes?’ . . . I don’t know, I never read his book . . .
May your tools remain sound as you continue to dig . . .
Sunday, January 6, 2008
'Boldness'
A friend of mine confessed that she hoped for more boldness in the upcoming year. A seeker of the same, she tends to walk through life a little more quietly than I do. If one were to put the two of us together and just watch as we communicated, one would gather right off the bat that I was by far the bolder of the two just by the manner in which I conduct myself. But this isn’t always the case, for just today, I have decided to release the address of this blog to a few select and I have felt sheepish as this decision comes with MUCH hesitation . . . vulnerability is now at hand.
We often CONFUSE the nature of the word with a set of perceived ideas that surround the definition of the word, for BOLDNESS does not necessarily mean LOUD and DIRECT. Yes – loud and ‘in your face’ is mostly recognized as being bold – but many a quiet soul, has been recognized for boldness.
Boldness - the very first definition is: not hesitating or fearful in the face of actual or possible danger or rebuff.
. . . NOT HESITATING or FEARFUL in the face of . . . .rebuff. Let me just say . . . I can tell you a few things about being rebuffed . . .
When I think of Ghandi . . . I think of quiet boldness – I have witnessed his character from the confines of my couch . . . quiet boldness. It’s the character of one’s spirit.
I shared with my friend that I have already witnessed boldness in her . . . and quite honestly hope to attain that same quiet boldness . . . a quiet confidence in the abilities that I am bestowed.
May you find your boldness in this new year . . .
We often CONFUSE the nature of the word with a set of perceived ideas that surround the definition of the word, for BOLDNESS does not necessarily mean LOUD and DIRECT. Yes – loud and ‘in your face’ is mostly recognized as being bold – but many a quiet soul, has been recognized for boldness.
Boldness - the very first definition is: not hesitating or fearful in the face of actual or possible danger or rebuff.
. . . NOT HESITATING or FEARFUL in the face of . . . .rebuff. Let me just say . . . I can tell you a few things about being rebuffed . . .
When I think of Ghandi . . . I think of quiet boldness – I have witnessed his character from the confines of my couch . . . quiet boldness. It’s the character of one’s spirit.
I shared with my friend that I have already witnessed boldness in her . . . and quite honestly hope to attain that same quiet boldness . . . a quiet confidence in the abilities that I am bestowed.
May you find your boldness in this new year . . .
'-------- Trusts and ---- Currents'
A somewhat amusing derailment from the ‘usuality’ (just made that up) of this blog. I have stated that I purpose myself to finding out the definitions of many words in order to find an understanding in most things – especially communications. Over the last couple of years, I have found some rather amusing twists that have given me an initial chuckle and an overall relief from situations that inadvertently might have brought heaviness to my days.
While I don’t usually like to name names, at the risk of getting somewhat personal, this one is just too good to not include. I have reposted this EDITED version deleting the actual names from the original as it is pressing on my heart to remove them. I figure if you really have extra time on your hands, you will find a way to retrieve the actual names, but I do not want the intended purpose of this entry to be replaced by a focus on the people – only the message.
Of the two significant men in my life these last 15 years, ironically enough – I have discovered specific definitions that have included their names. More significant than that, though is the unusual connection to the personal heartaches I have ‘allowed’ because of the relationships I have had with these two men. I will step out of the box of my overall amusement enough, however, to take it a step further – because most often than not, what initially APPEARS as a NEGATIVE, is often times MORE POSITIVE when viewed through Healed Eyes.
I begin with the -------- Trust – a simple definition for a simple man (yet another strange truth): a fixed-term, irrevocable trust account usually opened as a means of reducing the income taxes of the grantor (the person who opens the account and deposits funds in the account). The trust must last for a minimum of 10 years. (in it’s original form – exactly 10 years and one day) During that time, income from the account is paid to a named beneficiary, and thus is not taxable to the grantor. At the end of the term of the trust, the principal, or property placed in trust, reverts to the grantor.
*** NOW - I was married to this man for a little over 13 years. Up through the 10th year, I can honestly say that, even through some rather tough times, we had a pretty good marriage. But it was the later years that seem to take us down. Our marriage had ended as he optioned out. Time heals all wounds and squinting to see through those new eyes, I have come to have an understanding by the use of this definition. I have come to understand that in the big scheme of things, perhaps he really didn’t have a ‘choice’ in the matter. Perhaps BECAUSE things were laid out the way they were, a temporary trust was given to me for a time – but that was all he was actually CAPABLE of granting – for I have come to believe that he is literally INCAPABLE, by his genetic nature, of giving more. It was almost an ordained, pre-set limitation. All TRUSTS reverted back to him at the end of the designated time. In simpler terms, “It is what it is so move on – I can tell you right now that I am certainly not interested in renewing this type of TRUST” in the future. But I can also tell you that I can now SEE that every THING, every PERSON that comes into one’s life is PURPOSED, whether it be for a long time, or a short time. It is up to us to choose what we eventually DO with our RETURN on INVESTMENT.
Now, for the later – the ---- Currents – a rather complicated definition for a rather complicated man (I’m telling you, the truths are too scary with these – if you wish to not read through this whole part - really, only my brother would do that, I am hoping that you will at least recognize some key words so when you finally read my personal side of things it will connect for you somewhat.): (also known as Foucault current) is an electrical phenomenon discovered by French physicist Léon Foucault in 1851. It is caused when a moving (or changing) magnetic field intersects a conductor, or vice-versa. The relative motion causes a circulating flow of electrons, or current, within the conductor. These circulating ------ of current create electromagnets with magnetic fields that oppose the effect of the applied magnetic field (see Lenz's law). The stronger the applied magnetic field, or greater the electrical conductivity of the conductor, or greater the relative velocity of motion, the greater the currents developed and the greater the opposing field.
It is important to appreciate that ---- currents are created when a moving conductor experiences changes in the magnetic field generated by a stationary object, as well as when a stationary conductor encounters a varying magnetic field. Both effects are present when a conductor moves through a varying magnetic field, as is the case at the top and bottom edges of the magnetized region shown in the diagram. ---- currents will be generated wherever a conducting object experiences a change in the intensity or direction of the magnetic field at any point within it, and not just at the boundaries. The swirling current set up in the conductor is due to electrons experiencing a Lorentz force that is perpendicular to their motion. Hence, they veer to their right, or left, depending on the direction of the applied field and whether the strength of the field is increasing or declining. The resistivity of the conductor acts to damp the amplitude of the eddy currents, as well as straighten their paths. Lenz's law encapsulates the fact that the current swirls in such a way as to create an induced magnetic field that opposes the phenomenon that created it. In the case of a varying applied field, the induced field will always be in the opposite direction to that applied. The same will be true when a varying external field is increasing in strength. However, when a varying field is falling in strength, the induced field will be in the same direction as that originally applied, in order to oppose the decline. Sometimes an object or part of an object experiences steady fields where there is still relative motion (for example in the center of the field in the diagram), or unsteady fields where the currents cannot circulate due to the geometry of the conductor. In these situations charges collect on or within the object and these charges then produce static electric potentials that oppose any further flow of current. Currents may be initially associated with the creation of static potentials, but these may be transitory and small. ---- currents create losses through Joule heating. More accurately, ---- currents transform useful forms of energy, such as kinetic energy, into heat, which is generally much less useful. Hence they reduce the efficiency of many devices that use changing magnetic fields, such as iron-core transformers and electric motors. They are minimized by selecting magnetic core materials that have low electrical conductivity (e.g., ferrites) or by using thin sheets of magnetic material, known as laminations. Electrons cannot cross the insulating gap between the laminations and so are unable to circulate on wide arcs. Charges gather at the lamination boundaries, in a process analogous to the Hall effect, producing electric fields that oppose any further accumulation of charge and hence suppressing the flow of ---- currents. The shorter the distance between adjacent laminations (i.e., the greater the number of laminations per unit area, perpendicular to the applied field), the greater the suppression of ---- currents. The loss of useful energy is not always undesirable, however, as there are some practical applications. One is in the brakes of some trains known as an ---- current brake. During braking, the metal wheels are exposed to a magnetic field from an electromagnet, generating ---- currents in the wheels. The ---- currents meet resistance as they flow through the metal, thus dissipating energy as heat, and this acts to slow the wheels down. The faster the wheels are spinning, the stronger the effect, meaning that as the train slows the braking force is reduced, producing a smooth stopping motion. The term ---- current comes from analogous currents seen in water when dragging an oar: localised areas of turbulence known as ------ give rise to persistent vortices.
*** NOW - here’s the thing with ----, I met him just shortly after my marriage fell apart. He was and still is a force to be reckoned with – one that continually goes AGAINST the natural flow of things. I resisted as best I could – trying to set boundaries around me but the charge that was created was almost too powerful. With our relationship there was always a stronger outer force – everything about us revolved around God. Together, we are passionate about all things – but in order to create the many POSITIVES in our lives– we are forever repelling each other. Something that has been very hard for me to understand.
This new job has me as an Education Coordinator for a recycling center. During a tour of the plant where I am working, I walked through the system and took a special PAUSE at the section that utilizes the “---- CURRENT”. As I stood there for a moment – I realized something. The section that used this current was the aluminum section. As the conveyor belt passed through this section, the materials that were on this belt were SEPARATED. The Aluminum was ‘repelled’ out from the other materials – literally PUSHED AWAY by this ‘force’ so that it landed in a specific drum that would ‘mold’ the aluminum into a form that was to be shipped off as it was ‘worth’ something to the buyer of the materials.
Ironically enough – one of the main purposes that ---- seems to have in my life is to PUSH ME in directions that eventually mold me – directions that REMOVE me from the things that I am not to be a part of - ultimately REFINING me, recycling the good that is already in me by removing the impurities that I have aloud to surround me. Oddly enough, whenever we would work too hard – the friction becomes too hot (we are both hot-headed) and we both become less effective. Repelling is sometimes the only way to create the positive force – a re-direction, if you will to the things we are BOTH supposed to be doing at this time. While hard to understand at times, all and all, a good thing to have in my life.
Pretty freaky, when you stop to look into the definitions around you. Pretty amazing what you will SEE if you set your gaze to find truth in ALL things. Until next time . . . make choices to see your defining lessons . . .
While I don’t usually like to name names, at the risk of getting somewhat personal, this one is just too good to not include. I have reposted this EDITED version deleting the actual names from the original as it is pressing on my heart to remove them. I figure if you really have extra time on your hands, you will find a way to retrieve the actual names, but I do not want the intended purpose of this entry to be replaced by a focus on the people – only the message.
Of the two significant men in my life these last 15 years, ironically enough – I have discovered specific definitions that have included their names. More significant than that, though is the unusual connection to the personal heartaches I have ‘allowed’ because of the relationships I have had with these two men. I will step out of the box of my overall amusement enough, however, to take it a step further – because most often than not, what initially APPEARS as a NEGATIVE, is often times MORE POSITIVE when viewed through Healed Eyes.
I begin with the -------- Trust – a simple definition for a simple man (yet another strange truth): a fixed-term, irrevocable trust account usually opened as a means of reducing the income taxes of the grantor (the person who opens the account and deposits funds in the account). The trust must last for a minimum of 10 years. (in it’s original form – exactly 10 years and one day) During that time, income from the account is paid to a named beneficiary, and thus is not taxable to the grantor. At the end of the term of the trust, the principal, or property placed in trust, reverts to the grantor.
*** NOW - I was married to this man for a little over 13 years. Up through the 10th year, I can honestly say that, even through some rather tough times, we had a pretty good marriage. But it was the later years that seem to take us down. Our marriage had ended as he optioned out. Time heals all wounds and squinting to see through those new eyes, I have come to have an understanding by the use of this definition. I have come to understand that in the big scheme of things, perhaps he really didn’t have a ‘choice’ in the matter. Perhaps BECAUSE things were laid out the way they were, a temporary trust was given to me for a time – but that was all he was actually CAPABLE of granting – for I have come to believe that he is literally INCAPABLE, by his genetic nature, of giving more. It was almost an ordained, pre-set limitation. All TRUSTS reverted back to him at the end of the designated time. In simpler terms, “It is what it is so move on – I can tell you right now that I am certainly not interested in renewing this type of TRUST” in the future. But I can also tell you that I can now SEE that every THING, every PERSON that comes into one’s life is PURPOSED, whether it be for a long time, or a short time. It is up to us to choose what we eventually DO with our RETURN on INVESTMENT.
Now, for the later – the ---- Currents – a rather complicated definition for a rather complicated man (I’m telling you, the truths are too scary with these – if you wish to not read through this whole part - really, only my brother would do that, I am hoping that you will at least recognize some key words so when you finally read my personal side of things it will connect for you somewhat.): (also known as Foucault current) is an electrical phenomenon discovered by French physicist Léon Foucault in 1851. It is caused when a moving (or changing) magnetic field intersects a conductor, or vice-versa. The relative motion causes a circulating flow of electrons, or current, within the conductor. These circulating ------ of current create electromagnets with magnetic fields that oppose the effect of the applied magnetic field (see Lenz's law). The stronger the applied magnetic field, or greater the electrical conductivity of the conductor, or greater the relative velocity of motion, the greater the currents developed and the greater the opposing field.
It is important to appreciate that ---- currents are created when a moving conductor experiences changes in the magnetic field generated by a stationary object, as well as when a stationary conductor encounters a varying magnetic field. Both effects are present when a conductor moves through a varying magnetic field, as is the case at the top and bottom edges of the magnetized region shown in the diagram. ---- currents will be generated wherever a conducting object experiences a change in the intensity or direction of the magnetic field at any point within it, and not just at the boundaries. The swirling current set up in the conductor is due to electrons experiencing a Lorentz force that is perpendicular to their motion. Hence, they veer to their right, or left, depending on the direction of the applied field and whether the strength of the field is increasing or declining. The resistivity of the conductor acts to damp the amplitude of the eddy currents, as well as straighten their paths. Lenz's law encapsulates the fact that the current swirls in such a way as to create an induced magnetic field that opposes the phenomenon that created it. In the case of a varying applied field, the induced field will always be in the opposite direction to that applied. The same will be true when a varying external field is increasing in strength. However, when a varying field is falling in strength, the induced field will be in the same direction as that originally applied, in order to oppose the decline. Sometimes an object or part of an object experiences steady fields where there is still relative motion (for example in the center of the field in the diagram), or unsteady fields where the currents cannot circulate due to the geometry of the conductor. In these situations charges collect on or within the object and these charges then produce static electric potentials that oppose any further flow of current. Currents may be initially associated with the creation of static potentials, but these may be transitory and small. ---- currents create losses through Joule heating. More accurately, ---- currents transform useful forms of energy, such as kinetic energy, into heat, which is generally much less useful. Hence they reduce the efficiency of many devices that use changing magnetic fields, such as iron-core transformers and electric motors. They are minimized by selecting magnetic core materials that have low electrical conductivity (e.g., ferrites) or by using thin sheets of magnetic material, known as laminations. Electrons cannot cross the insulating gap between the laminations and so are unable to circulate on wide arcs. Charges gather at the lamination boundaries, in a process analogous to the Hall effect, producing electric fields that oppose any further accumulation of charge and hence suppressing the flow of ---- currents. The shorter the distance between adjacent laminations (i.e., the greater the number of laminations per unit area, perpendicular to the applied field), the greater the suppression of ---- currents. The loss of useful energy is not always undesirable, however, as there are some practical applications. One is in the brakes of some trains known as an ---- current brake. During braking, the metal wheels are exposed to a magnetic field from an electromagnet, generating ---- currents in the wheels. The ---- currents meet resistance as they flow through the metal, thus dissipating energy as heat, and this acts to slow the wheels down. The faster the wheels are spinning, the stronger the effect, meaning that as the train slows the braking force is reduced, producing a smooth stopping motion. The term ---- current comes from analogous currents seen in water when dragging an oar: localised areas of turbulence known as ------ give rise to persistent vortices.
*** NOW - here’s the thing with ----, I met him just shortly after my marriage fell apart. He was and still is a force to be reckoned with – one that continually goes AGAINST the natural flow of things. I resisted as best I could – trying to set boundaries around me but the charge that was created was almost too powerful. With our relationship there was always a stronger outer force – everything about us revolved around God. Together, we are passionate about all things – but in order to create the many POSITIVES in our lives– we are forever repelling each other. Something that has been very hard for me to understand.
This new job has me as an Education Coordinator for a recycling center. During a tour of the plant where I am working, I walked through the system and took a special PAUSE at the section that utilizes the “---- CURRENT”. As I stood there for a moment – I realized something. The section that used this current was the aluminum section. As the conveyor belt passed through this section, the materials that were on this belt were SEPARATED. The Aluminum was ‘repelled’ out from the other materials – literally PUSHED AWAY by this ‘force’ so that it landed in a specific drum that would ‘mold’ the aluminum into a form that was to be shipped off as it was ‘worth’ something to the buyer of the materials.
Ironically enough – one of the main purposes that ---- seems to have in my life is to PUSH ME in directions that eventually mold me – directions that REMOVE me from the things that I am not to be a part of - ultimately REFINING me, recycling the good that is already in me by removing the impurities that I have aloud to surround me. Oddly enough, whenever we would work too hard – the friction becomes too hot (we are both hot-headed) and we both become less effective. Repelling is sometimes the only way to create the positive force – a re-direction, if you will to the things we are BOTH supposed to be doing at this time. While hard to understand at times, all and all, a good thing to have in my life.
Pretty freaky, when you stop to look into the definitions around you. Pretty amazing what you will SEE if you set your gaze to find truth in ALL things. Until next time . . . make choices to see your defining lessons . . .
Saturday, January 5, 2008
‘Comfort Zones . . .’
It is one of the severest tests of friendship to tell your friend his faults. So to love a man that you cannot bear to see a stain upon him, and to speak painful truth through loving words, that is friendship. -- Henry Ward Beecher
I recently shared a mouthful with someone I have grown close to. I opened by choosing my words carefully in the hopes that my heart would be revealed. I shared that it was only because I’ve had to do my own overhauling in these areas that I was able to recognize and share. What ensued was a shift in reception – denial that things were not needed in this area and what began as a meeting of hopeful progress, quickly turned into rejection and edited reception. What needed to be said was NOT wanting to be heard. Rather than addressing some of the issues – the things we often put band aids on to just get to the next day, I dug deep to get to the root of the many problems. I was told I didn’t need to do this. When I shared that things would continue as they were unless some major changes were addressed, I was given the cold shoulder and told not to worry about it. People hear ONLY what they want to hear and see ONLY what they want to see.
Like all things, it got me thinking - how far is too far as it pertains to seeking change . . . how far is too far in the realm of friendships?
I believe one that walks in truth hold much integrity. . . I also believe that he/she often holds much loneliness in doing so. I was tossed a question a long time ago – one of those pondering hypothetical questions on the placement of perceived selfishness: ‘Is it more selfish to SHARE a truth about something – relieving the sharer from the burden of that truth – but ultimately placing burden on the recipient – OR – is it better to NOT SHARE, holding the burden but allowing the recipient to walk in an state of ignorant bliss?’
I tend to act on the first and maybe this IS selfish in some way because it eventually spares me the pain of having to re-address the person’s embarrassment that ultimately ensues when the truth is finally revealed. TRUTH ultimately wins out, you know.
Friends who instinctually ‘groom’ others are often sneered at. Guilty. I just want people to be the very best they can be and as Mr. Beecher points out in the above quote - I cannot ‘bear to see the stain’ upon one that I care about and will risk sharing painful truths so that he/she may ultimately shine. Yes, if you have a fleck of food in your teeth, I will tell you – not because it’s annoying to me – but because I want to spare you the insecurities of discovering it yourself much later in the bathroom mirror and forever wondering who had seen you with that fleck. I am the one that that has to look away at an embarrassing situation – not because it causes me embarrassment but because it cause me heartache as I seem to literally FEEL the other’s humiliation.
Perhaps this was Paul’s thorn in his side – a continuous nagging personal hurt for those that could be so much more if they would just seek truth or at lease have the will to change. I often go back and forth with that scripture thinking it was this or simply his own ‘self doubt in whether he he did everything possible in the power that God allowed him’ – either way – it’s a continual ‘thorn’ as I struggle with similar pains.
While I am fully aware that I certainly do not have all the answers - that people will always have comfort zones they will not want crossed, I will most likely end up crossing some of them when internally prompted to do so because while I will forever risk moments of loneliness from doing so, I will do so because I walk in truth . . . because I have integrity . . . and because I am a friend . . . .
Until next time . . .
I recently shared a mouthful with someone I have grown close to. I opened by choosing my words carefully in the hopes that my heart would be revealed. I shared that it was only because I’ve had to do my own overhauling in these areas that I was able to recognize and share. What ensued was a shift in reception – denial that things were not needed in this area and what began as a meeting of hopeful progress, quickly turned into rejection and edited reception. What needed to be said was NOT wanting to be heard. Rather than addressing some of the issues – the things we often put band aids on to just get to the next day, I dug deep to get to the root of the many problems. I was told I didn’t need to do this. When I shared that things would continue as they were unless some major changes were addressed, I was given the cold shoulder and told not to worry about it. People hear ONLY what they want to hear and see ONLY what they want to see.
Like all things, it got me thinking - how far is too far as it pertains to seeking change . . . how far is too far in the realm of friendships?
I believe one that walks in truth hold much integrity. . . I also believe that he/she often holds much loneliness in doing so. I was tossed a question a long time ago – one of those pondering hypothetical questions on the placement of perceived selfishness: ‘Is it more selfish to SHARE a truth about something – relieving the sharer from the burden of that truth – but ultimately placing burden on the recipient – OR – is it better to NOT SHARE, holding the burden but allowing the recipient to walk in an state of ignorant bliss?’
I tend to act on the first and maybe this IS selfish in some way because it eventually spares me the pain of having to re-address the person’s embarrassment that ultimately ensues when the truth is finally revealed. TRUTH ultimately wins out, you know.
Friends who instinctually ‘groom’ others are often sneered at. Guilty. I just want people to be the very best they can be and as Mr. Beecher points out in the above quote - I cannot ‘bear to see the stain’ upon one that I care about and will risk sharing painful truths so that he/she may ultimately shine. Yes, if you have a fleck of food in your teeth, I will tell you – not because it’s annoying to me – but because I want to spare you the insecurities of discovering it yourself much later in the bathroom mirror and forever wondering who had seen you with that fleck. I am the one that that has to look away at an embarrassing situation – not because it causes me embarrassment but because it cause me heartache as I seem to literally FEEL the other’s humiliation.
Perhaps this was Paul’s thorn in his side – a continuous nagging personal hurt for those that could be so much more if they would just seek truth or at lease have the will to change. I often go back and forth with that scripture thinking it was this or simply his own ‘self doubt in whether he he did everything possible in the power that God allowed him’ – either way – it’s a continual ‘thorn’ as I struggle with similar pains.
While I am fully aware that I certainly do not have all the answers - that people will always have comfort zones they will not want crossed, I will most likely end up crossing some of them when internally prompted to do so because while I will forever risk moments of loneliness from doing so, I will do so because I walk in truth . . . because I have integrity . . . and because I am a friend . . . .
Until next time . . .
'Titles'
“I made the most of my ability and I did my best with my title.” - unknown
Titles are nothing without a sound understanding of the PURPOSE behind them.
Gearing up for my new job I – ok, already I need to divert to another thought – ugh…. I really have to remember what was in my coffee today – for the thoughts, they just keep a coming . . . it’s all good, like McDonald’s ‘I’m loving it’, but I have to digress simply to definitions again:
SEVERAL revelations came from this recent pursuit for the ‘perfect job’. It got me thinking about what that word really means. JOB is defined as: anything a person is expected or obliged to do; duty; responsibility. EMPLOYMENT is defined as: an occupation by which a person earns a living; work; business.
First and foremost, was the realization that my ‘perfect job’ has been mine from the beginning – WORKING to keep myself open and moldable to ‘A WORK’ that is being done within me so that I may, in turn, do that which is continually assigned – that is my JOB – what I am called to do - period. Along the way, I am called to many employments that will also allow me PROVISION for the air that I and those that have been entrusted to me breath while we are here. So, in this aspect, a correction is to be made . . . my pursuit of this current “employment” has allowed me much in the way of revelations.
OK, the train has reentered the station again so I continue with my initial thoughts . . .
GEARING UP for my new 'employment', I was asked what I wanted on my business cards – “same as the last or do you want to change the title?” To which I said, “I’ve never been big on titles per say, only understanding what it is you see my position to be. My performance will reflect that which you are needing from this position – you tell me what you see this position to be.” (I had already locked in my salary so it truly didn’t matter at this stage of the game in that respect).
So a title was chosen and the cards have been ordered but all this prompted more thoughts as I focused on the sentiments I had shared. Many spend their whole life in pursuit of that ultimate title – only to have it mean NOTHING in the performance they ultimately give. So truly, I ask . . . WHAT IS IN A NAME?
One of my favorite movies is “Sommersby” – ok so Richard Gere is not bad to look at but it is more for the message of that movie – the need to live up to a name that holds HONOR. I want more than anything to have INTEGRITY in all I do – no matter what title I have before my name – Education Coordinator, Mother . . . and so forth. I, like all of us wear many HATS during the day – will have many titles in my lifetime and want to be able to have the highest form of integrity under all those titles.
Until recently, I have always struggled with truly understanding the concept of the Trinity. While I will not claim to fully understand anything of God, I will claim that when I look again, having an understanding that we ALL wear many titles, it becomes a little easier to see. At the risk of causing heart failure in many, I will use the analogy of myself – stating emphatically that I fully understand my limitations and my unworthiness in this comparison - but if we are truly to be imitators of GOD . . . to be Christ-like in our pursuit of the kingdom: I AM . . . . woman . . . MOTHER . . . DAUGHTER . . . and SOUL.
My TITLE . . . depends upon what God is looking for in me in that particular employment.
Until next time . . . choose integrity in ALL you are.
Titles are nothing without a sound understanding of the PURPOSE behind them.
Gearing up for my new job I – ok, already I need to divert to another thought – ugh…. I really have to remember what was in my coffee today – for the thoughts, they just keep a coming . . . it’s all good, like McDonald’s ‘I’m loving it’, but I have to digress simply to definitions again:
SEVERAL revelations came from this recent pursuit for the ‘perfect job’. It got me thinking about what that word really means. JOB is defined as: anything a person is expected or obliged to do; duty; responsibility. EMPLOYMENT is defined as: an occupation by which a person earns a living; work; business.
First and foremost, was the realization that my ‘perfect job’ has been mine from the beginning – WORKING to keep myself open and moldable to ‘A WORK’ that is being done within me so that I may, in turn, do that which is continually assigned – that is my JOB – what I am called to do - period. Along the way, I am called to many employments that will also allow me PROVISION for the air that I and those that have been entrusted to me breath while we are here. So, in this aspect, a correction is to be made . . . my pursuit of this current “employment” has allowed me much in the way of revelations.
OK, the train has reentered the station again so I continue with my initial thoughts . . .
GEARING UP for my new 'employment', I was asked what I wanted on my business cards – “same as the last or do you want to change the title?” To which I said, “I’ve never been big on titles per say, only understanding what it is you see my position to be. My performance will reflect that which you are needing from this position – you tell me what you see this position to be.” (I had already locked in my salary so it truly didn’t matter at this stage of the game in that respect).
So a title was chosen and the cards have been ordered but all this prompted more thoughts as I focused on the sentiments I had shared. Many spend their whole life in pursuit of that ultimate title – only to have it mean NOTHING in the performance they ultimately give. So truly, I ask . . . WHAT IS IN A NAME?
One of my favorite movies is “Sommersby” – ok so Richard Gere is not bad to look at but it is more for the message of that movie – the need to live up to a name that holds HONOR. I want more than anything to have INTEGRITY in all I do – no matter what title I have before my name – Education Coordinator, Mother . . . and so forth. I, like all of us wear many HATS during the day – will have many titles in my lifetime and want to be able to have the highest form of integrity under all those titles.
Until recently, I have always struggled with truly understanding the concept of the Trinity. While I will not claim to fully understand anything of God, I will claim that when I look again, having an understanding that we ALL wear many titles, it becomes a little easier to see. At the risk of causing heart failure in many, I will use the analogy of myself – stating emphatically that I fully understand my limitations and my unworthiness in this comparison - but if we are truly to be imitators of GOD . . . to be Christ-like in our pursuit of the kingdom: I AM . . . . woman . . . MOTHER . . . DAUGHTER . . . and SOUL.
My TITLE . . . depends upon what God is looking for in me in that particular employment.
Until next time . . . choose integrity in ALL you are.
'Benefit Packages'
‘The lamp of the body is the eye. If therefore your eye is good, your whole body will be full of light. But if your eye is bad, your whole body will be full of darkness. If therefore the light that is in you is darkness, how great is that darkness !” (Matthew 6:19-23)
It’s no wonder that Scripture has many references to the eyes. God is asking for us to see HIM in all things among the countless lessons. The scripture above holds many truths but for this particular entry, I will focus on one aspect of it.
One’s perception is one’s reality – obviously this continues to be my favored soap box as this message rings so very loudly in my life these days. Modern day ‘life-changers’ have a similar message that they preach – “be positive, see the good in all you do”. To the one seeking, there the answers will be found and a PEACE will eventually surpass ALL understanding because the heart will learn to receive.
The name of this blog should reveal it all – I seek PURPOSE in ALL that is presented to me – in every little THING I do – in every person that comes into my realm – in every TASK that I am called to do.
Many a good Art Teacher will inform his/her students, “That which you go in looking for, is what will ultimately be SEEN in any work of art”. Our eyes are the windows to our hearts. I go in looking for the lesson that will hopefully refine my heart. And such is what I found – a number of times with the many challenges that faced me in this season of employment seeking. In my search for employment, the one thing that ranked top on everyone’s list of questions was, “What kind of benefits will you get?”
My initial reactions were that of defense at first – a search for justification because try as I did, the doors would just not open to a position of substance that would efficiently provide for my needs – needs that have been stripped to basics – not much fluff for this gal lately. Throughout this whole search I did what I had to do which meant taking on odd jobs while I searched diligently for a full-time position that would allow me the utilizations of my giftings as well as give me a good salary. When a position finally became available that placed me in a higher bracket – but still only just met my necessities, I had no choice but to take it. It was a job that filled every criteria which I stated in the last blog - but it offered NO BENEFITS, at least those benefits that mere man has set his eyes to recognize. Just straight pay – nothing more in the means of insurance or paid holidays and such.
As this employment is being replaced by the one I just recently accepted, I offered to help find and train my replacement. I had shared with this friend - the friend that I had recently reconnected - one that was being considered for my replacement - that ‘benefits’ come in many forms. I wanted her to not be dismayed by the lack thereof but to realize something that I had along the way. While this position does not currently offer the standard benefit packages (he hopes to offer this in time), it offers many benefits to the one that tilts his/her head to see it. It offers an opportunity to HONE current skills, an opportunity to gain NEW skills, it offers NUMEROUS opportunities that strengthen resourcefulness, it offers exceptional networking opportunities – something that, in this day an age, is quite priceless, it offers a casual work environment so there is no need to purchase special work attire, it offers flex hours so one can come and go as one pleases as long as the work is completed and finally – it offers a PAYCHECK – as opposed to NO PAYCHECK – and one should view that as a HUGE benefit.
I shared that, not only did this short employment give me the above mentioned, but it SPECIAL TRAINED me for this current position I now have – one that I fully believe I landed BECAUSE of the Crash Course of knowledge I had to gain to do that other job. (The perfect job, at the perfect time, for the perfect purpose . . . )
As you go forward today, I am hoping that you will choose to SEE the MANY BENEFITS that your day, your position, your relationships offer you . . . . continue to make them good.
It’s no wonder that Scripture has many references to the eyes. God is asking for us to see HIM in all things among the countless lessons. The scripture above holds many truths but for this particular entry, I will focus on one aspect of it.
One’s perception is one’s reality – obviously this continues to be my favored soap box as this message rings so very loudly in my life these days. Modern day ‘life-changers’ have a similar message that they preach – “be positive, see the good in all you do”. To the one seeking, there the answers will be found and a PEACE will eventually surpass ALL understanding because the heart will learn to receive.
The name of this blog should reveal it all – I seek PURPOSE in ALL that is presented to me – in every little THING I do – in every person that comes into my realm – in every TASK that I am called to do.
Many a good Art Teacher will inform his/her students, “That which you go in looking for, is what will ultimately be SEEN in any work of art”. Our eyes are the windows to our hearts. I go in looking for the lesson that will hopefully refine my heart. And such is what I found – a number of times with the many challenges that faced me in this season of employment seeking. In my search for employment, the one thing that ranked top on everyone’s list of questions was, “What kind of benefits will you get?”
My initial reactions were that of defense at first – a search for justification because try as I did, the doors would just not open to a position of substance that would efficiently provide for my needs – needs that have been stripped to basics – not much fluff for this gal lately. Throughout this whole search I did what I had to do which meant taking on odd jobs while I searched diligently for a full-time position that would allow me the utilizations of my giftings as well as give me a good salary. When a position finally became available that placed me in a higher bracket – but still only just met my necessities, I had no choice but to take it. It was a job that filled every criteria which I stated in the last blog - but it offered NO BENEFITS, at least those benefits that mere man has set his eyes to recognize. Just straight pay – nothing more in the means of insurance or paid holidays and such.
As this employment is being replaced by the one I just recently accepted, I offered to help find and train my replacement. I had shared with this friend - the friend that I had recently reconnected - one that was being considered for my replacement - that ‘benefits’ come in many forms. I wanted her to not be dismayed by the lack thereof but to realize something that I had along the way. While this position does not currently offer the standard benefit packages (he hopes to offer this in time), it offers many benefits to the one that tilts his/her head to see it. It offers an opportunity to HONE current skills, an opportunity to gain NEW skills, it offers NUMEROUS opportunities that strengthen resourcefulness, it offers exceptional networking opportunities – something that, in this day an age, is quite priceless, it offers a casual work environment so there is no need to purchase special work attire, it offers flex hours so one can come and go as one pleases as long as the work is completed and finally – it offers a PAYCHECK – as opposed to NO PAYCHECK – and one should view that as a HUGE benefit.
I shared that, not only did this short employment give me the above mentioned, but it SPECIAL TRAINED me for this current position I now have – one that I fully believe I landed BECAUSE of the Crash Course of knowledge I had to gain to do that other job. (The perfect job, at the perfect time, for the perfect purpose . . . )
As you go forward today, I am hoping that you will choose to SEE the MANY BENEFITS that your day, your position, your relationships offer you . . . . continue to make them good.
Thursday, January 3, 2008
'Blessings in Disguise'
Switched jobs recently. And – YES – this too holds many fine lessons. I say this as the smile broadens on my face. Maybe it’s because I have been granted a few days ‘rest’ just recently that I can see the bounty of blessings that are right before my eyes. Perhaps it is more of a basic truth that when one is finally stripped away of all the comforts of a former life, bare essentials reveal hidden bounties. All I know is that, for whatever reason, I have been granted a sort of ‘front row seat’ to the inner working of the Greatness above as it pertains to the many revelations I now see.
A few years ago, fresh out of the bullpen of a stay at home career, I was granted employment on my first interview out – a blessing coming out of a rather arduous trek through divorce and major life changes. However, only partially sole seeking at the time, I took this ‘gift’ and later tossed it aside as I perceived myself to have other destinies. Very much in the manner of Jonah, many great things were had because I allowed myself to get swallowed by this fish, so much so that I often still question whether I wasn’t truly meant to take this turn. However, looking to the present, and then to the past, I see an alignment that had happened – not in my own time – but rather that of the Masters – for the job that I first landed was near the town that would eventually be called ‘home’. Had I only had a little more faith in the manner – while many lessons were learned because of my derailment, I now wonder how many MORE would have been received had I just stayed on course?
Such are the lenses I use to view my present situations. Due to some adverse actions, all efforts to build an organization (questionable derailment) were thwarted and I found myself starting again from ground up – only this time, rather than my personal life it was my professional life. So, back to classifieds as I sought anxiously to rebuild. I was thrown into a series of challenges that I believe were there to cause me to SEEK provisions from the true source. Many a tear I cried as I, a recovering control-freak, had to sit on my hands and NOT make things happen in the world that wrapped around me. But each new position brought just enough provision and with provision, many new abilities. This most recent one seems to take the cake though. As my recent work at an orchard was drawing to a close due to the season ending, my anxious heart was stayed as my boss emphatically stated, ‘Do not be anxious for the perfect job will come at just the perfect time and it will be the perfect provision for you!’ Sure enough – in the 11th hour, this job came. I was doing what I enjoyed – re-using much of my former giftings, in a casual environment, flexible schedule, amazing networking opportunities . . . But to my dismay, the compensation was questionable as it was an independent non-profit and it was struggling for funding. Lessons learned hard, I started to grumble – but thankfully recovered quickly when all of a sudden a strange series of events took place. I had gotten a call denying funds – I felt my heart sink but mustered up giving it to God then, within the hour my personal cell rang – it was another company that I had applied to but never heard from – they were doing a second call for interviews ‘something’ had fallen through with their first choice – to which I agreed to take an interview – shortly after this – one of the girls I worked with, laid a resume upon my desk, “know that you have filled this position but you may want to keep this gal handy – she looks like she could be a good candidate for the future . . . “ Long story short, I went on the interview, was able to share something that I had just had to take a crash course on learning about – which I believe helped land me the job. The resume that was placed on my desk was followed up with and not only did she go in for an interview (waiting to hear what happened) but she and I developed a friendship while I was strategically trying to interview her without bringing her in physically. I found another friend of mine that had interviewed for that job previously and reconnected with her as she has already started working with them on a temp basis and just today, at my new job – I discovered several projects that are very similar to the many I had just trained for with this past job. It truly WAS the perfect job as it trained me for the next one waiting for me.
Could it really be that easy? Could it be that all we really need to do is just place our trust and walk in faith that we will eventually be brought to the many things that are just waiting to be given to us? All I have to say it . . . make good choices today . . . you might be surprised by what it blesses you with.
A few years ago, fresh out of the bullpen of a stay at home career, I was granted employment on my first interview out – a blessing coming out of a rather arduous trek through divorce and major life changes. However, only partially sole seeking at the time, I took this ‘gift’ and later tossed it aside as I perceived myself to have other destinies. Very much in the manner of Jonah, many great things were had because I allowed myself to get swallowed by this fish, so much so that I often still question whether I wasn’t truly meant to take this turn. However, looking to the present, and then to the past, I see an alignment that had happened – not in my own time – but rather that of the Masters – for the job that I first landed was near the town that would eventually be called ‘home’. Had I only had a little more faith in the manner – while many lessons were learned because of my derailment, I now wonder how many MORE would have been received had I just stayed on course?
Such are the lenses I use to view my present situations. Due to some adverse actions, all efforts to build an organization (questionable derailment) were thwarted and I found myself starting again from ground up – only this time, rather than my personal life it was my professional life. So, back to classifieds as I sought anxiously to rebuild. I was thrown into a series of challenges that I believe were there to cause me to SEEK provisions from the true source. Many a tear I cried as I, a recovering control-freak, had to sit on my hands and NOT make things happen in the world that wrapped around me. But each new position brought just enough provision and with provision, many new abilities. This most recent one seems to take the cake though. As my recent work at an orchard was drawing to a close due to the season ending, my anxious heart was stayed as my boss emphatically stated, ‘Do not be anxious for the perfect job will come at just the perfect time and it will be the perfect provision for you!’ Sure enough – in the 11th hour, this job came. I was doing what I enjoyed – re-using much of my former giftings, in a casual environment, flexible schedule, amazing networking opportunities . . . But to my dismay, the compensation was questionable as it was an independent non-profit and it was struggling for funding. Lessons learned hard, I started to grumble – but thankfully recovered quickly when all of a sudden a strange series of events took place. I had gotten a call denying funds – I felt my heart sink but mustered up giving it to God then, within the hour my personal cell rang – it was another company that I had applied to but never heard from – they were doing a second call for interviews ‘something’ had fallen through with their first choice – to which I agreed to take an interview – shortly after this – one of the girls I worked with, laid a resume upon my desk, “know that you have filled this position but you may want to keep this gal handy – she looks like she could be a good candidate for the future . . . “ Long story short, I went on the interview, was able to share something that I had just had to take a crash course on learning about – which I believe helped land me the job. The resume that was placed on my desk was followed up with and not only did she go in for an interview (waiting to hear what happened) but she and I developed a friendship while I was strategically trying to interview her without bringing her in physically. I found another friend of mine that had interviewed for that job previously and reconnected with her as she has already started working with them on a temp basis and just today, at my new job – I discovered several projects that are very similar to the many I had just trained for with this past job. It truly WAS the perfect job as it trained me for the next one waiting for me.
Could it really be that easy? Could it be that all we really need to do is just place our trust and walk in faith that we will eventually be brought to the many things that are just waiting to be given to us? All I have to say it . . . make good choices today . . . you might be surprised by what it blesses you with.
Tuesday, January 1, 2008
'Turning the Page'
So, perhaps 2008 will be a year of revival to many.
As I wrote to a friend recently, I had a smile about my face as I slowly turn that calendar page – relishing the lifting off the old and the pulling in of the new. No fancy parties - no confetti and noise makers - just me, my calendar and a fluffy pillow as I turned the page and put 2007 to bed. It's amazing how even the smallest arm gesture can make to most significant of change to one's being.
Another friend of mine shared that this seemingly simple reference of turning the page was used by him as he, a Responder had a rather horrific emergency call. Turning the page to the next CALL somehow signified MOVING ON from the last situation.
As the New Year Resolutions fill the airwaves from tv to radio - many revolving around weight loss and the need for more excercise, it's amazing what just that one arm work-out will do for you - just turn that page from all the old to all the new - from all the negative to all the positive.
I know that I personally have a full calendar for 2008 already - all of the things I allowed be put on hold due to fog that clouded my sole.
It's already a great start . . . make good choices . . .
As I wrote to a friend recently, I had a smile about my face as I slowly turn that calendar page – relishing the lifting off the old and the pulling in of the new. No fancy parties - no confetti and noise makers - just me, my calendar and a fluffy pillow as I turned the page and put 2007 to bed. It's amazing how even the smallest arm gesture can make to most significant of change to one's being.
Another friend of mine shared that this seemingly simple reference of turning the page was used by him as he, a Responder had a rather horrific emergency call. Turning the page to the next CALL somehow signified MOVING ON from the last situation.
As the New Year Resolutions fill the airwaves from tv to radio - many revolving around weight loss and the need for more excercise, it's amazing what just that one arm work-out will do for you - just turn that page from all the old to all the new - from all the negative to all the positive.
I know that I personally have a full calendar for 2008 already - all of the things I allowed be put on hold due to fog that clouded my sole.
It's already a great start . . . make good choices . . .
'The FOG'
‘Derive happiness in oneself from a good day's work, from illuminating the fog that surrounds us.’ ~ Henri Matisse
The weather has been unusually sporadic these days. Not necessarily unusual as the Chicago area is known for it’s wide range in weather patterns all in one day . . . but it has been almost eerie as the city has had many days of dense fog. Driving home the other night, a few things went through my head. Although I struggled to SEE, I felt an odd sense of peace – kind of like when your mind falls asleep yet you are in auto pilot and eventually get to where you are going despite the fact that your mind has completely turned off to the technicals of the actual drive. For the first time in a long time, even though I had this blanket of fog wrapped around me – even though I could not SEE but a few feet in front of me, I had this PEACE as I drove home to my little farm house. Although the roads were much harder to maneuver as the landscape opened to the many farm fields, I happened upon recognizable landmarks every now and then and this continued to reassure me that I was moving along in the right manner. Again, this did not seem to alarm me but rather reassure me that for the first time in a very long time – perhaps EVER, I truly believe I FELT my ‘bearings’.
No big surprise, but I looked up bearings in the dictionary – the definition I was seeming to understand about this word reads as such: an awareness of one's position or situation relative to one's surroundings.
I shared something with a friend of mine – about the way I had been feeling for so long with everything moving so quickly in my life. Many things had been clouding my vision – the struggle between the head and the heart – the spiritual and the flesh.
All of a sudden, the FOG was like a straight jacket that bound me for a time of realization. Perhaps it was BECAUSE of this physical fog that my spiritual senses were heightened ultimately lifting me out of this emotional fog that I have been in for quite some time. It’s interesting how tight our world becomes when the atmosphere lowers itself to our level. Under normal conditions a bounty of freedom awaits one who is able to rise to such heights – a place I choose to live. However, when the reverse takes place – the heavenlies, brought into our realm – where many choose to reside, become an indefinable CONTRAINT that is placed around us causing us to focus on the things that are directly in front of us – almost like the blinders we see on horses that are made to traipse people around in those city horse-drawn carriages – without them, many a horse, feeling overwhelmed and panic, would run ramped through the streets wreaking havoc for themselves and the lives of the many they come in contact with.
‘An awareness of one's position or situation relative to one's surroundings.’ I feel that I am finally reaching a point in my life where I am understanding my position – my purpose, if you will. In finding this understanding, I am beginning to understand that while my PHYSICAL SURROUNDING may change at a moments notice, this new awareness gives me peace and allows me to relate to ANY surrounding.
May your current fog’s be lifted as you grow in your own understanding . . . make good choices . . .
The weather has been unusually sporadic these days. Not necessarily unusual as the Chicago area is known for it’s wide range in weather patterns all in one day . . . but it has been almost eerie as the city has had many days of dense fog. Driving home the other night, a few things went through my head. Although I struggled to SEE, I felt an odd sense of peace – kind of like when your mind falls asleep yet you are in auto pilot and eventually get to where you are going despite the fact that your mind has completely turned off to the technicals of the actual drive. For the first time in a long time, even though I had this blanket of fog wrapped around me – even though I could not SEE but a few feet in front of me, I had this PEACE as I drove home to my little farm house. Although the roads were much harder to maneuver as the landscape opened to the many farm fields, I happened upon recognizable landmarks every now and then and this continued to reassure me that I was moving along in the right manner. Again, this did not seem to alarm me but rather reassure me that for the first time in a very long time – perhaps EVER, I truly believe I FELT my ‘bearings’.
No big surprise, but I looked up bearings in the dictionary – the definition I was seeming to understand about this word reads as such: an awareness of one's position or situation relative to one's surroundings.
I shared something with a friend of mine – about the way I had been feeling for so long with everything moving so quickly in my life. Many things had been clouding my vision – the struggle between the head and the heart – the spiritual and the flesh.
All of a sudden, the FOG was like a straight jacket that bound me for a time of realization. Perhaps it was BECAUSE of this physical fog that my spiritual senses were heightened ultimately lifting me out of this emotional fog that I have been in for quite some time. It’s interesting how tight our world becomes when the atmosphere lowers itself to our level. Under normal conditions a bounty of freedom awaits one who is able to rise to such heights – a place I choose to live. However, when the reverse takes place – the heavenlies, brought into our realm – where many choose to reside, become an indefinable CONTRAINT that is placed around us causing us to focus on the things that are directly in front of us – almost like the blinders we see on horses that are made to traipse people around in those city horse-drawn carriages – without them, many a horse, feeling overwhelmed and panic, would run ramped through the streets wreaking havoc for themselves and the lives of the many they come in contact with.
‘An awareness of one's position or situation relative to one's surroundings.’ I feel that I am finally reaching a point in my life where I am understanding my position – my purpose, if you will. In finding this understanding, I am beginning to understand that while my PHYSICAL SURROUNDING may change at a moments notice, this new awareness gives me peace and allows me to relate to ANY surrounding.
May your current fog’s be lifted as you grow in your own understanding . . . make good choices . . .
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