A. Unabashed Pacifist:
Is a peace that passes understanding possible if we have too little understanding?
B. Unabashed Christian: (for community worship)
Holy One,
We came here to find you.
You found us long ago. You find us anywhere.
We came here to hear you.
You have spoken to us in scripture and in Jesus. You speak to us any time – through nature, friends, art.
We came here to praise you.
Our whole life can express praise, wherever and whenever we know gratitude, compassion and love.
We came here to worship you.
We cannot do it alone. Solo hymns lack the fullness of the body. So we sing this hymn of praise…
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“Well, yes, I might consider a career as a magician.”
[Just a teenage fantasy? No.]
D. Blog: A Parable
"Bearing one another's joys and burdens..."
A woman who had taken a fertility drug gave birth to triplets.
She and her husband worried about how they would cope with three infants. Should they hire a maid? Should he seek a second job? Should they ask her mother to move in with them for a few months?
Then they heard other church members speaking of the children as "our triplets." What do you think became of their worrying?
Sunday, September 30, 2007
Saturday, September 29, 2007
What's Your Pedigree?
A. Unabashed Pacifist:
The dove flies overhead, looking for a place to nest, a shoulder upon which to rest.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
I look to the mountains and find beauty,
wonder,
mystery,
wisdom,
peace,
grace,
stability,
clarity,
integrity,
joy,
home,
you.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“The most important thing in life is, be cool.”
[No, this did not make it as His answer to the question about the most important of laws in scripture.]
D. Blog: Old French Broad
When I heard an old French Broad constantly passed through town, I thought I would like to live here. She has not disappointed me.
Although geologists say she is the third- or fourth-oldest of her kind on Earth, in the right lighting, her beauty still sparkles. We do not insult her by calling her the "French Broad." It’s her actual name.
Some developer over in Tennessee wanted suggestions of river names to put on the streets of his gated community. He insulted her by refusing to believe a river could have that name (or by believing that her name would not suit his exclusive area).
But she and her name are quite proper – in pedigree, history and importance. She got her name more than 250 years ago, when English-speaking settlers came to this area and found a broad river that flowed into French territory (Tennessee). I imagine Mr. Developer cannot come close to her in terms of bona fides. I think she’s still a striking beauty, and despite her age and the ignorant insults she endures, she just keeps rolling along.
D. Blog: Old French Broad
When I heard an old French Broad constantly passed through town, I thought I would like to live here. She has not disappointed me.
Although geologists say she is the third- or fourth-oldest of her kind on Earth, in the right lighting, her beauty still sparkles. We do not insult her by calling her the "French Broad." It’s her actual name.
Some developer over in Tennessee wanted suggestions of river names to put on the streets of his gated community. He insulted her by refusing to believe a river could have that name (or by believing that her name would not suit his exclusive area).
But she and her name are quite proper – in pedigree, history and importance. She got her name more than 250 years ago, when English-speaking settlers came to this area and found a broad river that flowed into French territory (Tennessee). I imagine Mr. Developer cannot come close to her in terms of bona fides. I think she’s still a striking beauty, and despite her age and the ignorant insults she endures, she just keeps rolling along.
Friday, September 28, 2007
Who Knows the Troubles?
A. Unabashed Pacifist:
It is one measure of our true humanity that we dream of, hope for, and work for peace.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
Nobody knows the trouble I’ve seen. Well, I suppose you do.
Nobody knows the sadness I’ve seen. Well, I suppose you do.
Nobody knows the joy, the cruelty, the generosity, the violence, the creativity, the waste, the beauty. Well, of course you do.
Thank you for sharing it all with me.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“Call my psychic hotline and I’ll tell you everything about yourself.”
[A nominal fee will apply. Nope, didn't say it.]
D. Blog: What’s With This Word?
“Skedaddle”
Run away; scram; leave in a hurry; escape.
This archetypal American expression has led etymologists a pretty dance in trying to work out where it comes from.
What we do know for certain is that it suddenly appears at the beginning of the Civil War. Out of the blue, it became fashionable in 1862, with lots of examples appearing in American newspapers and books. The focus of all the early examples is the War; without doubt it started out as military slang with the meaning of fleeing the battlefield or retreating hurriedly. Its first appearance in print, in the New York Tribune of 10 August 1861, made this clear: “No sooner did the traitors discover their approach than they ‘skiddaddled’, (a phrase the Union boys up here apply to the good use the seceshers make of their legs in time of danger).” However, it quickly moved into civilian circles with the broader sense of leaving in a hurry. It crossed the Atlantic astonishingly quickly, being recorded in the Illustrated London News in 1862 and then being put in the mouth of a young lady character by Anthony Trollope in his novel The Last Chronicle of Barset in 1867: “ ‘Mamma, Major Grantly has — skedaddled.’ ‘Oh, Lily, what a word!’ ”
So far so good. Where it comes from is almost totally obscure. Was it Greek, as John Hotten argued in his Dictionary of Modern Slang in 1874, derived from skedannumi, to “retire tumultuously”, perhaps “set afloat by some Harvard professor”? It sounds plausible, but probably not. The English Dialect Dictionary, compiled at the end of the nineteenth century, argues that it’s from a Scottish or Northern English dialect word meaning to spill or scatter, in particular to spill milk. This may be from Scots skiddle, meaning to splash water about or spill. Jonathon Green, in the Cassell Dictionary of Slang, suggests this transferred to the US through “the image of blood and corpses being thus ‘spilled and scattered’ on the battlefield before the flight of a demoralised army”.
[From Michael Quinlon at www.worldwidewords.org]
[Time for me to skedaddle out of here. For US to skedaddle from Iraq?]
It is one measure of our true humanity that we dream of, hope for, and work for peace.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
Nobody knows the trouble I’ve seen. Well, I suppose you do.
Nobody knows the sadness I’ve seen. Well, I suppose you do.
Nobody knows the joy, the cruelty, the generosity, the violence, the creativity, the waste, the beauty. Well, of course you do.
Thank you for sharing it all with me.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“Call my psychic hotline and I’ll tell you everything about yourself.”
[A nominal fee will apply. Nope, didn't say it.]
D. Blog: What’s With This Word?
“Skedaddle”
Run away; scram; leave in a hurry; escape.
This archetypal American expression has led etymologists a pretty dance in trying to work out where it comes from.
What we do know for certain is that it suddenly appears at the beginning of the Civil War. Out of the blue, it became fashionable in 1862, with lots of examples appearing in American newspapers and books. The focus of all the early examples is the War; without doubt it started out as military slang with the meaning of fleeing the battlefield or retreating hurriedly. Its first appearance in print, in the New York Tribune of 10 August 1861, made this clear: “No sooner did the traitors discover their approach than they ‘skiddaddled’, (a phrase the Union boys up here apply to the good use the seceshers make of their legs in time of danger).” However, it quickly moved into civilian circles with the broader sense of leaving in a hurry. It crossed the Atlantic astonishingly quickly, being recorded in the Illustrated London News in 1862 and then being put in the mouth of a young lady character by Anthony Trollope in his novel The Last Chronicle of Barset in 1867: “ ‘Mamma, Major Grantly has — skedaddled.’ ‘Oh, Lily, what a word!’ ”
So far so good. Where it comes from is almost totally obscure. Was it Greek, as John Hotten argued in his Dictionary of Modern Slang in 1874, derived from skedannumi, to “retire tumultuously”, perhaps “set afloat by some Harvard professor”? It sounds plausible, but probably not. The English Dialect Dictionary, compiled at the end of the nineteenth century, argues that it’s from a Scottish or Northern English dialect word meaning to spill or scatter, in particular to spill milk. This may be from Scots skiddle, meaning to splash water about or spill. Jonathon Green, in the Cassell Dictionary of Slang, suggests this transferred to the US through “the image of blood and corpses being thus ‘spilled and scattered’ on the battlefield before the flight of a demoralised army”.
[From Michael Quinlon at www.worldwidewords.org]
[Time for me to skedaddle out of here. For US to skedaddle from Iraq?]
Thursday, September 27, 2007
Who's Counting?
A. Unabashed Pacifist:
There were a reported 100,000 people at a peace demonstration. But who was counting?
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
Something new this day comes.
I welcome its arrival.
Something new this day comes.
I run to meet it.
Something new this day comes.
I will incorporate it into my self.
Something new this day comes.
I live in your presence, where newness abounds.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“Well, Judas, I don’t know that it’s fair to call Abraham a pimp for sharing Sarah with another man, but I see your point.”
[I doubt that even Judas had “pimp” in his vocabulary. Anyway, Jesus didn’t say this, guaranteed.]
D. Blog: Loving a House
Our house makes me happy, more so than any other place I have lived. Let me count the ways:
- The word “unique” fits this house.
- It has plenty of space.
- It has style without being trendy.
- It feels comfortable.
- It has eye-catching features.
- No one would ever think it ticky-tacky.
- The layout works well for us and will continue to do so as we get even older.
- It has plenty of room for guests, family and friends.
- It offers views of nature that soothe and inspire.
- Not too old, not too new, not too big, not too small, not too urban, not too rural – just right.
- It has a convenient location, with easy access to everything we want/need, as well as ease of access for visitors from near and far.
- At the same time, it offers wonderful privacy.
- Its design and construction must have been state of the art, by my lay estimate and by what the building trades people tell us.
- Compared with the other houses we have lived in, we cannot imagine leaving this one.
- Seems to us like a marriage made in heaven…
There were a reported 100,000 people at a peace demonstration. But who was counting?
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
Something new this day comes.
I welcome its arrival.
Something new this day comes.
I run to meet it.
Something new this day comes.
I will incorporate it into my self.
Something new this day comes.
I live in your presence, where newness abounds.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“Well, Judas, I don’t know that it’s fair to call Abraham a pimp for sharing Sarah with another man, but I see your point.”
[I doubt that even Judas had “pimp” in his vocabulary. Anyway, Jesus didn’t say this, guaranteed.]
D. Blog: Loving a House
Our house makes me happy, more so than any other place I have lived. Let me count the ways:
- The word “unique” fits this house.
- It has plenty of space.
- It has style without being trendy.
- It feels comfortable.
- It has eye-catching features.
- No one would ever think it ticky-tacky.
- The layout works well for us and will continue to do so as we get even older.
- It has plenty of room for guests, family and friends.
- It offers views of nature that soothe and inspire.
- Not too old, not too new, not too big, not too small, not too urban, not too rural – just right.
- It has a convenient location, with easy access to everything we want/need, as well as ease of access for visitors from near and far.
- At the same time, it offers wonderful privacy.
- Its design and construction must have been state of the art, by my lay estimate and by what the building trades people tell us.
- Compared with the other houses we have lived in, we cannot imagine leaving this one.
- Seems to us like a marriage made in heaven…
Wednesday, September 26, 2007
Monastery + Anniversary??
A. Unabashed Pacifist:
Over hill, over dale, I have hit the peaceful trail.
Over hill, over dale, I have hit the peaceful trail.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
A little less than angels, so it says.
Some of us do marvelous things, beyond the capability even of angels.
A little more than demons, some would argue.
Some of us do demonic things that even devils would find hard to duplicate.
May our goodness prevail, so that life prevails.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“I just cannot believe that God really expected Abraham to sacrifice his son. What kind of religion would expect that?”
Holy One,
A little less than angels, so it says.
Some of us do marvelous things, beyond the capability even of angels.
A little more than demons, some would argue.
Some of us do demonic things that even devils would find hard to duplicate.
May our goodness prevail, so that life prevails.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“I just cannot believe that God really expected Abraham to sacrifice his son. What kind of religion would expect that?”
[What kind of religion, indeed... But He never said it - probably.]
D. Blog: Anniversary at Mepkin Abbey
On the day of our 30th anniversary, my wife and I went to a monastery. We laugh about how that sounds, but the experience was wonderful.
We had not planned to go there on our trip to Charleston, SC. We saw what we planned to see and did what we wanted to do in that old colonial city. Then we had time on THE day, with no real desire to visit the museum we had on our schedule for the day.
“What about this Mepkin Abbey the tour book describes? It’s near Moncks Corner, on the way back to Asheville” she asked.
“Okay. Could be interesting. Let’s do it,” I responded.
So, we found it (not without the help of local Moncks Corner residents). We were in time for the morning tour, included in which was observing the monks in their noon prayer service, one of the eight times of prayer during their day.
We enjoyed the peaceful grounds complete with formal gardens and massive oaks decorated with Spanish moss. We ate our picnic by the river and bought gifts in the shop before we left for home. All in all, I conclude that going to a monastery for your anniversary can add to the celebration, no matter how that sounds.
D. Blog: Anniversary at Mepkin Abbey
On the day of our 30th anniversary, my wife and I went to a monastery. We laugh about how that sounds, but the experience was wonderful.
We had not planned to go there on our trip to Charleston, SC. We saw what we planned to see and did what we wanted to do in that old colonial city. Then we had time on THE day, with no real desire to visit the museum we had on our schedule for the day.
“What about this Mepkin Abbey the tour book describes? It’s near Moncks Corner, on the way back to Asheville” she asked.
“Okay. Could be interesting. Let’s do it,” I responded.
So, we found it (not without the help of local Moncks Corner residents). We were in time for the morning tour, included in which was observing the monks in their noon prayer service, one of the eight times of prayer during their day.
We enjoyed the peaceful grounds complete with formal gardens and massive oaks decorated with Spanish moss. We ate our picnic by the river and bought gifts in the shop before we left for home. All in all, I conclude that going to a monastery for your anniversary can add to the celebration, no matter how that sounds.
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
Going Home
A. Unabashed Pacifist:
When the peace train arrives, I’ll be holding the welcome banner that says: “Thank God you’re here.”
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
If I ask for bread, you give me a baker’s dozen loaves.
12 and 1 to grow on.
I do get satisfaction – plus!
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“Andrew, you have to get beyond this sibling rivalry. Just accept it: Peter is like the high priest; you’re like the acolyte.”
[Did He know sibling rivalry? Imagine His siblings trying to live up to the patterns He set! But no, He didn’t say that.]
D. Blog: Poem
On My Way Home
On my way home, I notice a yellow rose.
It beckons me to come near, invites me to inhale its scent.
On my way home, the sparrows lead me beside the chain-link fence.
They stick their heads through the gaps and call for me to follow.
On my way home, I almost step on a shard of glass.
When I look in it, my reflection takes me to a hall of mirrors.
On my way home, I reach my car.
From there, a faceless radio voice accompanies me.
When the peace train arrives, I’ll be holding the welcome banner that says: “Thank God you’re here.”
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
If I ask for bread, you give me a baker’s dozen loaves.
12 and 1 to grow on.
I do get satisfaction – plus!
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“Andrew, you have to get beyond this sibling rivalry. Just accept it: Peter is like the high priest; you’re like the acolyte.”
[Did He know sibling rivalry? Imagine His siblings trying to live up to the patterns He set! But no, He didn’t say that.]
D. Blog: Poem
On My Way Home
On my way home, I notice a yellow rose.
It beckons me to come near, invites me to inhale its scent.
On my way home, the sparrows lead me beside the chain-link fence.
They stick their heads through the gaps and call for me to follow.
On my way home, I almost step on a shard of glass.
When I look in it, my reflection takes me to a hall of mirrors.
On my way home, I reach my car.
From there, a faceless radio voice accompanies me.
Monday, September 24, 2007
Who's Handicapped?
A. Unabashed Pacifist:
A day without peace is a day out of touch with God.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
Your glory knows no end.
Everywhere I turn, your majesty confronts me.
Your greatness satisfies my desires and
overcomes my weakness.
In you I am whole.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“Peter, you don’t speak for me any more than that rock does.”
[Peter, the rock on which the church is built, but a misquote? No, he didn't say it...]
D. Blog: Space for the Handicapped
After parking my pickup in a regular space away from the restaurant entrance, I walked toward the door. Swooping into one of the handicap spaces came a big, shiny, black BMW. I saw neither handicap plate nor placard, but I did see four able-bodied adults exit the car and hurry into the eatery.
Perhaps I am overly sensitive on this issue, having had parents who required use of those parking spaces. But I wish something could be done about such obnoxious, insensitive people who feel they can park wherever they want.
I do not approve of vandalism, either, but I live in an area where creative bumpersticker decor makes for entertainment while driving. Something in me would find gratification if I could provide my BMW driver with this bumpersticker: "CAUTION: Mentally Handicapped Driver."
A day without peace is a day out of touch with God.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
Your glory knows no end.
Everywhere I turn, your majesty confronts me.
Your greatness satisfies my desires and
overcomes my weakness.
In you I am whole.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“Peter, you don’t speak for me any more than that rock does.”
[Peter, the rock on which the church is built, but a misquote? No, he didn't say it...]
D. Blog: Space for the Handicapped
After parking my pickup in a regular space away from the restaurant entrance, I walked toward the door. Swooping into one of the handicap spaces came a big, shiny, black BMW. I saw neither handicap plate nor placard, but I did see four able-bodied adults exit the car and hurry into the eatery.
Perhaps I am overly sensitive on this issue, having had parents who required use of those parking spaces. But I wish something could be done about such obnoxious, insensitive people who feel they can park wherever they want.
I do not approve of vandalism, either, but I live in an area where creative bumpersticker decor makes for entertainment while driving. Something in me would find gratification if I could provide my BMW driver with this bumpersticker: "CAUTION: Mentally Handicapped Driver."
Sunday, September 23, 2007
Apocalypse? NOT!
A. Unabashed Pacifist:
If you’re not thankful for peace, you’re missing something.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
Lead me when I am lost and confused.
Lead me when the night hides my way.
Lead me when I tire and long for rest.
Lead me when I hunger and thirst.
Lead me with your promise before me.
Lead me to the hoped-for destination.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“I wonder what it takes to become a cantor…”
[He didn’t say it. Could He even sing??]
D. Blog: Apocalypse Not
Those who prophesy a cataclysmic apocalypse have imagined a god that would be the greatest mass murderer of all time, the greatest applier of weapons of mass destruction I can imagine. From this god/devil I turn in horror, calling upon the name of Jesus, the one who came to save, not to destroy. May such “prophets” repent of their blasphemy.
If you’re not thankful for peace, you’re missing something.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
Lead me when I am lost and confused.
Lead me when the night hides my way.
Lead me when I tire and long for rest.
Lead me when I hunger and thirst.
Lead me with your promise before me.
Lead me to the hoped-for destination.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“I wonder what it takes to become a cantor…”
[He didn’t say it. Could He even sing??]
D. Blog: Apocalypse Not
Those who prophesy a cataclysmic apocalypse have imagined a god that would be the greatest mass murderer of all time, the greatest applier of weapons of mass destruction I can imagine. From this god/devil I turn in horror, calling upon the name of Jesus, the one who came to save, not to destroy. May such “prophets” repent of their blasphemy.
Saturday, September 22, 2007
It's Only Fair
A. Unabashed Pacifist:
The only fanatics who have a clue about God are peaceniks.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
Your ways are just. The ways of life in this world can be unjust, but your ways are just.
Your ways are righteous. The ways of life in this world can be perverse, but your ways are righteous.
Your ways are merciful. The ways of life in this world can be horribly cruel, but your ways are merciful.
Your ways are loving. The ways of life in this world can exhibit extreme rage and hatred, but your ways are loving.
We know the ways of the world. We see your ways. This day, again, we choose your ways.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“Of course, Palestinians are not your neighbors.”
[It won’t fly. He didn’t say it - of Samaritans or of Palestinians.]
D. Blog: What A Word!
[I am reminded of politicians and their promises...]
The only fanatics who have a clue about God are peaceniks.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
Your ways are just. The ways of life in this world can be unjust, but your ways are just.
Your ways are righteous. The ways of life in this world can be perverse, but your ways are righteous.
Your ways are merciful. The ways of life in this world can be horribly cruel, but your ways are merciful.
Your ways are loving. The ways of life in this world can exhibit extreme rage and hatred, but your ways are loving.
We know the ways of the world. We see your ways. This day, again, we choose your ways.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“Of course, Palestinians are not your neighbors.”
[It won’t fly. He didn’t say it - of Samaritans or of Palestinians.]
D. Blog: What A Word!
Ballyhoo
1. Sensational or clamorous advertising or publicity.
2. Noisy shouting or uproar.
tr.v. bal·ly·hooed, bal·ly·hoo·ing, bal·ly·hoos
To advertise or publicize by sensational methods.
verb
To make known vigorously the positive features of (a product): advertise, build up, cry (up), popularize, promote, publicize, talk up. Informal: pitch, plug. Slang: push. See knowledge
To increase or seek to increase the importance or reputation of by favorable publicity: boost, build up, enhance, promote, publicize, puff, talk up, tout. Informal: plug. Slang: hype.
Word History: The origin of ballyhoo has been the subject of much speculation. This spelling has actually been used for four different words: ballyhoo, "sensational advertising"; ballyhoo, a spelling of balao, a kind of fish; ballyhoo, a part of the name ballyhoo bird, about which more later; and ballyhoo, a sailor's epithet for an unpopular ship. This last ballyhoo (first recorded in 1836) was thought to be related to, or the same as, the word ballahou, from Spanish balahú, "a type of schooner common in the Antilles." First recorded in 1867, ballahou, besides being a term for a specific kind of ship, was also used contemptuously of inferior ships. But the connection between these sailing terms or the name of the fish and our word ballyhoo, first recorded in 1901, has not been established. There may, however, be a tie between ballyhoo and the creature called a ballyhoo bird. According to a July 1880 article in Harper's, the bird had four wings and two heads and could whistle through one bill while singing through the other. Anyone who has ever been on a snipe hunt will know what hunting ballyhoo birds was like.
[I am reminded of politicians and their promises...]
Friday, September 21, 2007
What A Word
A. Unabashed Pacifist:
Peace wins in the end. Deal with it.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
You bless me.
I take you for granted; I ignore you.
You bless me.
I try to go my own way; I try to plan my own life.
You bless me.
I doubt your existence; I chase after idols that distract rather than nurture.
You bless me.
I return to your arms; I rest in your care.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“I have one word of advice: plastic.”
[Right after “take up your cross,” right? Nope, He didn’t say it.]
D. Blog: What’s That Word About?
scuttlebutt \SKUHT-l-buht\, noun:
1. A drinking fountain on a ship.
2. A cask on a ship that contains the day's supply of drinking water.
3. Gossip; rumor.
What were they talking about? Sports? Neighborhood scuttlebutt? Off-color jokes? I didn't know; I knew only how exciting it was to see Dad in action.-- Eric Liu, The Accidental Asian
It was written in the optimistic belief that open debate beats backroom scuttlebutt.-- Jon Entine, Taboo
In snooping around, my mother overheard the pageant scuttlebutt, which was that Snow White was the big winner.-- Delta Burke with Alexis Lipsitz, Delta Style
Scuttlebutt comes from scuttle, "a small opening" + butt, "a large cask" -- that is, a small hole cut into a cask or barrel to allow individual cups of water to be drawn out. The modern equivalent is the office water cooler, also a source of refreshment and gossip.
[from dictionary.com, January 24, 2003]
Peace wins in the end. Deal with it.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
You bless me.
I take you for granted; I ignore you.
You bless me.
I try to go my own way; I try to plan my own life.
You bless me.
I doubt your existence; I chase after idols that distract rather than nurture.
You bless me.
I return to your arms; I rest in your care.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“I have one word of advice: plastic.”
[Right after “take up your cross,” right? Nope, He didn’t say it.]
D. Blog: What’s That Word About?
scuttlebutt \SKUHT-l-buht\, noun:
1. A drinking fountain on a ship.
2. A cask on a ship that contains the day's supply of drinking water.
3. Gossip; rumor.
What were they talking about? Sports? Neighborhood scuttlebutt? Off-color jokes? I didn't know; I knew only how exciting it was to see Dad in action.-- Eric Liu, The Accidental Asian
It was written in the optimistic belief that open debate beats backroom scuttlebutt.-- Jon Entine, Taboo
In snooping around, my mother overheard the pageant scuttlebutt, which was that Snow White was the big winner.-- Delta Burke with Alexis Lipsitz, Delta Style
Scuttlebutt comes from scuttle, "a small opening" + butt, "a large cask" -- that is, a small hole cut into a cask or barrel to allow individual cups of water to be drawn out. The modern equivalent is the office water cooler, also a source of refreshment and gossip.
[from dictionary.com, January 24, 2003]
Thursday, September 20, 2007
Invitation
A. Unabashed Pacifist:
The sovereign of the universe invites you to a banquet of peace with the heavenly host. RSVP ASAP.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
Crumbs from your table are more than ample.
Your grace is sufficient.
Thank you.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“No self-respecting Jewish male will ride a bicycle.”
[What did He know? And when did He know it? No, He didn’t say that.]
D. Blog: Quaker Meeting – A Poem
Unbidden, they come crowding my throat,
bursting through my brain barrier,
these words demanding release.
“Say us. Sing us. Write us. Put us out where
we can be heard, seen, tasted, felt;
let our aroma linger as reminder
of the lover who sends us.
Birth us.”
I rise to break the still waters of silence.
The sovereign of the universe invites you to a banquet of peace with the heavenly host. RSVP ASAP.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
Crumbs from your table are more than ample.
Your grace is sufficient.
Thank you.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“No self-respecting Jewish male will ride a bicycle.”
[What did He know? And when did He know it? No, He didn’t say that.]
D. Blog: Quaker Meeting – A Poem
Unbidden, they come crowding my throat,
bursting through my brain barrier,
these words demanding release.
“Say us. Sing us. Write us. Put us out where
we can be heard, seen, tasted, felt;
let our aroma linger as reminder
of the lover who sends us.
Birth us.”
I rise to break the still waters of silence.
Wednesday, September 19, 2007
Time is Ordinary?
A. Unabashed Pacifist:
It don’t mean a thing if it ain’t got that peace.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
The struggles continue.
They sharpen our emotions, heighten our sensitivity, challenge our minds.
Thank you for the spirit’s guidance to deal with the struggles.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“Give me a home where the buffalo roam…”
[No, I imagine not.]
D. Blog: Ordinary Time
In the church year, we are in a period called “ordinary time.” I object to that nomenclature. Every moment of time is filled with the extraordinary. I understand that the folks who came up with that term had in mind the sense of “ordinal time,” meaning the numbering of weeks of the period between Pentecost and Advent.
However, I believe the name now confuses most people. My own pastor, a learned and thoughtful and insightful person, spoke about honoring the ordinary moments of life during this Christian season of the year. This is fine. I agree with the importance of doing this as we go through the years of our lives. It gets us away from thinking this period is a common and insignificant part of the church year. But according to those who established the terminology, that is not what was meant.
I propose that if we want the season to represent ordinal time, we should call it that. Or, since many people will still have difficulty understanding why we use that term and simply number the weeks between the major church festivals, my real preference would be to add “extraordinary” to the name of the church season. Thus, we live in “ordinary-extraordinary time.” It’s true. Life in ordinary time has honor, but when we have eyes to see, all life is extraordinary.
It don’t mean a thing if it ain’t got that peace.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
The struggles continue.
They sharpen our emotions, heighten our sensitivity, challenge our minds.
Thank you for the spirit’s guidance to deal with the struggles.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“Give me a home where the buffalo roam…”
[No, I imagine not.]
D. Blog: Ordinary Time
In the church year, we are in a period called “ordinary time.” I object to that nomenclature. Every moment of time is filled with the extraordinary. I understand that the folks who came up with that term had in mind the sense of “ordinal time,” meaning the numbering of weeks of the period between Pentecost and Advent.
However, I believe the name now confuses most people. My own pastor, a learned and thoughtful and insightful person, spoke about honoring the ordinary moments of life during this Christian season of the year. This is fine. I agree with the importance of doing this as we go through the years of our lives. It gets us away from thinking this period is a common and insignificant part of the church year. But according to those who established the terminology, that is not what was meant.
I propose that if we want the season to represent ordinal time, we should call it that. Or, since many people will still have difficulty understanding why we use that term and simply number the weeks between the major church festivals, my real preference would be to add “extraordinary” to the name of the church season. Thus, we live in “ordinary-extraordinary time.” It’s true. Life in ordinary time has honor, but when we have eyes to see, all life is extraordinary.
Sunday, September 16, 2007
Sabbath Time
A. Unabashed Pacifist:
I anticipate a day when peace becomes so normal that war can only be found in history books and film archives.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
We are blessed.
We are blessed.
We are blessed.
Lest we forget.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“I want my followers to focus on my death and forget about my life – except my birth.”
[He never said it, contrary to some commonly held opinions.]
D. Blog: A Parable
"Honor the Sabbath..."
Once there was a church where everyone checked their watches at the door when they entered the sanctuary for worship. Some people did it because they wanted to be without time pressure for a while. Some did it because they did not want to limit their ability to worship by paying attention to the time. All of them agreed the time was right that way.
I anticipate a day when peace becomes so normal that war can only be found in history books and film archives.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
We are blessed.
We are blessed.
We are blessed.
Lest we forget.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“I want my followers to focus on my death and forget about my life – except my birth.”
[He never said it, contrary to some commonly held opinions.]
D. Blog: A Parable
"Honor the Sabbath..."
Once there was a church where everyone checked their watches at the door when they entered the sanctuary for worship. Some people did it because they wanted to be without time pressure for a while. Some did it because they did not want to limit their ability to worship by paying attention to the time. All of them agreed the time was right that way.
Saturday, September 15, 2007
Finding Time
A. Unabashed Pacifist:
Finding the gateway to peace wide open, I overcame my fear and walked right past the terrors. I’ve been here ever since.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
We sing “Into my heart, come into my heart, Lord Jesus.”
Then we devote our lives to cramming our hearts and minds with garbage.
Perhaps we should begin by singing “Empty my heart…”
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“… and right above the altar, a stained-glass image of me praying.”
D. Blog: Mall Times
In the center of our nearest mall, a clock rests in a high metal archway that also holds the name of the mall. Several months ago, the clock stopped. It still shows the time, only at 12:05 am and pm. I suppose it is accurate more often than most clocks or watches or computers. They might go for months at a time without revealing anything but the approximate time.
The mall management does nothing to fix its prominent clock. Perhaps the idea is that shoppers should not worry about the time, or that time stands still while we shop, or we need not be concerned – we will find time for what we need to do… Instead of calling this mall by its formal name, we’ve given it a nickname: The 12:05 Mall.
In something of a contrast, however, stores in the mall seem to want to rush time. So, for instance, soon after July 4th, those sale signs came down, and up went the “End of Summer Sale” signs. Rest assured, summer definitely did not end in mid-July in my neighborhood! And now, September 14 as I write this, I see signs that announce the “Final Fall Savings.” I feel like Rip Van Winkle – somehow I missed fall this year…
But I’m planning ahead. By Thanksgiving I should put away the ice scraper and snow shovel.
I think if I could choose between the different takes on time, I’d take the stopped clock rather than the fast-forward calendar.
Finding the gateway to peace wide open, I overcame my fear and walked right past the terrors. I’ve been here ever since.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
We sing “Into my heart, come into my heart, Lord Jesus.”
Then we devote our lives to cramming our hearts and minds with garbage.
Perhaps we should begin by singing “Empty my heart…”
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“… and right above the altar, a stained-glass image of me praying.”
[No, I can't find it anywhere in the Gospels.]
D. Blog: Mall Times
In the center of our nearest mall, a clock rests in a high metal archway that also holds the name of the mall. Several months ago, the clock stopped. It still shows the time, only at 12:05 am and pm. I suppose it is accurate more often than most clocks or watches or computers. They might go for months at a time without revealing anything but the approximate time.
The mall management does nothing to fix its prominent clock. Perhaps the idea is that shoppers should not worry about the time, or that time stands still while we shop, or we need not be concerned – we will find time for what we need to do… Instead of calling this mall by its formal name, we’ve given it a nickname: The 12:05 Mall.
In something of a contrast, however, stores in the mall seem to want to rush time. So, for instance, soon after July 4th, those sale signs came down, and up went the “End of Summer Sale” signs. Rest assured, summer definitely did not end in mid-July in my neighborhood! And now, September 14 as I write this, I see signs that announce the “Final Fall Savings.” I feel like Rip Van Winkle – somehow I missed fall this year…
But I’m planning ahead. By Thanksgiving I should put away the ice scraper and snow shovel.
I think if I could choose between the different takes on time, I’d take the stopped clock rather than the fast-forward calendar.
Friday, September 14, 2007
Joy of Chocolate
A. Unabashed Pacifist:
The dictator’s first move: silence the pacifists.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
Lead us from darkness to light,
From sadness to joy,
From despair to hope,
From bondage to freedom
From suffering to wholeness,
From pain to blessing,
From war to peace,
For you send only the very best.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
"Humor is sacrilegious."
D. Blog: More Chocolate Wisdom
- Chocolate is not an addiction. It’s a fifth food group.
- Aliens consider chocolate Earth’s one redeeming feature.
- Nine of ten people say they love chocolate. The others are liars.
- Money talks, but chocolate sings.
- Chocolate is nature’s way of making up for Mondays.
- Forget love – I’d rather fall in chocolate.
- Eat a square meal a day – a box of chocolates.
-There’s nothing better than a good friend, except a good friend with chocolate.
- There’s more to life than chocolate, but not right now.
- When the going gets tough, the tough eat chocolate.
The dictator’s first move: silence the pacifists.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
Lead us from darkness to light,
From sadness to joy,
From despair to hope,
From bondage to freedom
From suffering to wholeness,
From pain to blessing,
From war to peace,
For you send only the very best.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
"Humor is sacrilegious."
[Looking at a lot of His followers, you might think so, but He never said it.]
D. Blog: More Chocolate Wisdom
- Chocolate is not an addiction. It’s a fifth food group.
- Aliens consider chocolate Earth’s one redeeming feature.
- Nine of ten people say they love chocolate. The others are liars.
- Money talks, but chocolate sings.
- Chocolate is nature’s way of making up for Mondays.
- Forget love – I’d rather fall in chocolate.
- Eat a square meal a day – a box of chocolates.
-There’s nothing better than a good friend, except a good friend with chocolate.
- There’s more to life than chocolate, but not right now.
- When the going gets tough, the tough eat chocolate.
Thursday, September 13, 2007
Enjoy the Scenery, But Keep Moving
A. Unabashed Pacifist:
Peace stands at the intersection of divine and human love.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
Each day brings new joys.
This life is utterly amazing!
If you don’t arrange it, then there’s a God-impersonator in the galaxy.
For all you do, thank you!
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
"If you pray in my name, you don’t need to do as I say."
Peace stands at the intersection of divine and human love.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
Each day brings new joys.
This life is utterly amazing!
If you don’t arrange it, then there’s a God-impersonator in the galaxy.
For all you do, thank you!
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
"If you pray in my name, you don’t need to do as I say."
[Some people seem to think He said it...No way.]
D. Blog: Driving the Blue Ridge Parkway
I took a drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway the other day. In my opinion, the Parkway is one of the best things government ever did in this country. Drive through wooded mountains, hike through the forest, catch sight of countless scenic views or occasional wildlife. I saw deer, turkeys and, when walking a trail to a waterfall, heard a specious report of a bear in the area – and coming my way. I didn’t wait to find out despite the doubt of that hiker’s truthfulness. Having long ago established a personal policy that when someone yells “fire” in a theater, I calmly leave, I reasoned that “bear” and “fire” have a similar quality, so I calmly left the area.
All along the Parkway, I noticed the effects of the Hemlock Woolly Adelgid (HWA). Not a pretty sight, all those dead and dying hemlocks. At a Park Service information center, I asked about some marked hemlocks. “That means they’ve been treated,” the woman told me. “That must have cost a bundle,” I remarked. “$300 per tree.” And just on my mile walk on the trail, I had seen over 100 such trees. The three large hemlocks in our yard have escaped infestation so far; I won’t hesitate to have them treated if it comes to that.
Another not so pretty sight are the webworm sacs on branches all along the way. I’ve been told by friends who seem to know that these worms don’t cause much damage to trees. The number of stripped branches, dead trees and trees decorated all over by those webs leads me to question the accuracy of my knowledgeable friends’ assessment. It appears to me that the damage is severely understated.
Finally, I want to comment about drivers on the Parkway. The speed limit is 45 mph. It’s a fine limit, one that allows for seeing the sights yet keeps traffic moving for those who actually have a destination in mind. I understand that many people just want to take their time. Fine. But when there are half a dozen cars bunched behind them on the Parkway, it’s time to take advantage of one of the many scenic overlooks and pull-offs. I trailed two vehicles on separate occasions whose drivers were under the mistaken impression that if they got within 10 mph of the speed limit, they might face a ticket for a traffic violation (are there speed traps on the Parkway?). Their lack of consideration for other drivers could diminish someone's enjoyment of the drive.
Because of such drivers, on my return trip I took an alternate route. It was also beautiful countryside, and a two-lane road, single lane in both directions. Again, though, this apparent reluctance to drive at a speed near the limit appeared. When one such driver led me through a little town, I realized that I had happened upon a local hobby. Some elderly drivers (women in this instance) enjoy an afternoon drive, during which they see how many vehicles they can collect behind them along the way. I think there might even be contests with awards for the driver who collects the most within, say 30 minutes. So, I’m thinking that in another 10 years or so, I might take up this hobby, too. But I promise that on the Parkway, I’ll pull over to look at the views.
Wednesday, September 12, 2007
Open Letter to OBL
A. Unabashed Pacifist:
A little peace never hurt anybody.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
I have entered your realm of both spirit and matter, time and eternity.
I delight in its beauty and wonder.
I have entered the human realm of loneliness and relationship.
I delight in its love and compassion, but I shrink from its waste and its horrors.
Move me from this fearful and power-seeking realm into your realm of trust and humility.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
"The first commandment is this: do unto others before they do unto you. The second is like it: cover your ass."
A little peace never hurt anybody.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
I have entered your realm of both spirit and matter, time and eternity.
I delight in its beauty and wonder.
I have entered the human realm of loneliness and relationship.
I delight in its love and compassion, but I shrink from its waste and its horrors.
Move me from this fearful and power-seeking realm into your realm of trust and humility.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
"The first commandment is this: do unto others before they do unto you. The second is like it: cover your ass."
[If He said it - He didn't -, He didn't follow His own advice. Or, perhaps He was being sarcastic?]
D. Blog: Open Letter to OBL
Dear Sheik Osama,
I read with interest the BBC account of your recent video, in which you encouraged the United States to embrace or convert to Islam. As a member and former minister (ordination withdrawn upon my request) of a Christian church, I would like to respond to your suggestion with some questions and observations, about religion and about religion in the United States.
1. I wonder whose version of Islam you would have us embrace? Shia’s? Sunni’s? Al-qaeda’s? One of those that kills other followers of Islam? Peace-loving Muslims? We in the United States do not hear or see much about the latter group, just as you probably do not hear or see much about faithful and peace-loving Christians or Jews in the United States. If the version of Islam you follow is no better than our own distorted Christianity or Judaism, I see no point to embracing or converting to it.
2. I wonder whether you have ever been to the United States? Do you know that in the US there are followers of every religion you can imagine, including an estimated 7 million followers of Islam?
3. Here’s a concept for you: despite the common misconception about the US being a Christian nation, the US has no official religion. That would, in fact, violate our constitution. There is, in other words, no religion from which the US can convert. Individual citizens, on the other hand, are free to convert from any religion to any other religion they choose.
4. Here’s a suggestion/proposal: if you convert to a truer version of Islam, maybe then people in the US would be interested. Or, perhaps they would consider conversion to a truer version of their own religion. A fundamental notion in the US is that religion is a personal affair. One’s religion cannot be determined by government authority, nor by application of force or threat. Such religion cannot be authentic.
5. I believe that religion – any religion – that endorses killing in the name of religion, of God, of Allah, is an abomination to God. It commits blasphemy against the name of Allah/God. It worships something (usually power or fear) other than God/Allah. It shames all religion and all who strive to live righteous lives. It leaves God/Allah behind and follows gods of domination. It no longer walks in the spirit of the Divine.
6. People continue to do terrible things in the name of God, whether they claim to be Christians, Jews, Hindus, Buddhists, Sunnis or Shias. All blaspheme against the Holy One, particularly when we justify our violence and killing in the name of the Holy One.
7. We all need conversion from our violent ways, which are not of God/Allah.
Tuesday, September 11, 2007
What Did He Say?
A. Unabashed Pacifist:
My pacifism reflects not fear, but a challenge to fear’s attempts to control my behavior.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
Did you say “Forgive your brothers and sisters”?
Well now…
Did you say “Turn the other cheek”?
Well now…
Did you say “Overturn evil with good”?
Well now…
Did you say “Love your neighbors as yourself”?
Well now…
Did you say “You are like a light upon a hill”?
Well now…
Did you say “Pray for those who persecute you”?
Well now…
Did you say “Love your enemies”?
Well now…
We’ll get back to you on all that.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
"Of course, war can be justified."
My pacifism reflects not fear, but a challenge to fear’s attempts to control my behavior.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
Did you say “Forgive your brothers and sisters”?
Well now…
Did you say “Turn the other cheek”?
Well now…
Did you say “Overturn evil with good”?
Well now…
Did you say “Love your neighbors as yourself”?
Well now…
Did you say “You are like a light upon a hill”?
Well now…
Did you say “Pray for those who persecute you”?
Well now…
Did you say “Love your enemies”?
Well now…
We’ll get back to you on all that.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
"Of course, war can be justified."
[Didn't say that - unless He added "but not by me.]
D. Blog: A Poem
Mountain Views
I will look from the hills, from whence comes my help.
Seeing clearly, I notice the city.
From below, it felt overwhelming;
now it appears as part of a larger tableau.
From within it, I felt devoured by its monstrous appetites;
now its hungering makes me weep for its emptiness.
Some days fog covers the hill and the plain,
God reminding me to keep my vision clear if
I would retain my focus.
Some days smog makes my eyes water and
I think it’s time to remove the cataracts.
The healer waits for our visit to the hills.
Monday, September 10, 2007
No More Woebegone
A. Unabashed Pacifist:
Where’s the detox center for those addicted to violence?
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
“Forward through the ages,” the hymn says. (I’ll ignore the rest). But that part, I think, could be your motto. You move forward, the creation moves forward, time moves forward.
“No turning back,” says another hymn. Also another context, but it, too, speaks to our reality. We cannot live in the past whether it was good or bad. Why would we, when you beckon us onward to where you lead us?
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
"Personally, I put my faith in a free market economy."
Where’s the detox center for those addicted to violence?
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
“Forward through the ages,” the hymn says. (I’ll ignore the rest). But that part, I think, could be your motto. You move forward, the creation moves forward, time moves forward.
“No turning back,” says another hymn. Also another context, but it, too, speaks to our reality. We cannot live in the past whether it was good or bad. Why would we, when you beckon us onward to where you lead us?
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
"Personally, I put my faith in a free market economy."
[No. It doesn't go with lilies of the field and birds of the air simplicity.]
D. Blog: Woebegone??
You might be interested (I was) in learning what’s up with the word “woebegone.” Sure, I’ve heard Garrison Keillor’s stories about fictional Lake Woebegone for years, but how does this word begin to make sense?
Here’s the explanation from Michael Quinlon:
[Q] From John David Hamilton, Ontario, Canada: “I have long been puzzled by the fact that woebegone is used in a sense opposite to what the word seemingly means. I grew up with the expression ‘a woebegone face’ meaning a sad, woeful, unhappy face. But if you take the word as it is spelled, it should mean ‘a happy, cheerful, optimistic face full of determined good cheer’. Why is this (and why does the dictionary give the contradictory meaning)?”
[A] It does look as though it’s from a wish or desire: “let woe be gone”. But the story is rather more complicated, and to answer it, we have to delve into medieval English.
Woebegone is first recorded in The Romance of Guy of Warwick, of about the year 1300. At that date, people would say things like “me is woe begon,” grief has beset me. Notice the word order, with me as the indirect object of the sentence, but put first. The verb here is bego, which has been obsolete for something like four hundred years, but which in medieval times had a variety of senses, such as to go round, surround or beset.
Over time, the link between woe and begone, the past participle of bego, became so close that they fused into a single adjective, so tightly linked that they survived shifts in language and the loss of the verb bego.
For some centuries it retained this sense of “afflicted by grief,” oppressed with misfortune, distress, sorrow or grief. Shakespeare uses it this way in Henry IV:
'Even such a man, so faint, so spiritless,So dull, so dread in look, so woe-begone,Drew Priam’s curtain in the dead of nightAnd would have told him half his Troy was burnt.'
This quotation in particular was so well known that it contributed to a revival of woebegone in a subtly altered sense at the beginning of the nineteenth century, not meaning somebody actually beset by woes, but somebody whose appearance makes them look as though they are.
We’re now a long way from that medieval romance, but in continuing to use the word we retain a small vestige of middle English as a linguistic fossil. Several other archaic forms in woe have also survived, such as “woe is me” and “woe betide you,” presumably because there’s a continuing need for formulaic lamentatory utterances.
Michael Quinlon at http://www.worldwidewords.org/qa/qa-woe1.htm
[A linguistic fossil? Should we tell Garrison? I pledge only to use "woe, be gone" in the way it sounds.]
Sunday, September 9, 2007
No Complaints
A. Unabashed Pacifist:
Pacifists look for another way besides fight or flight: make things right.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
I neither want nor expect it to happen, but if the world ends an hour from now, I have no complaints. You have done more than I can imagine to create an amazing world and I have had a very fine life.
My only regret would be that we humans have not done better with what you have provided and we have submitted too much to our fears of one another and of you, instead of loving one another and you.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
"Widows and orphans should be taught to fish so they can support themselves."
Pacifists look for another way besides fight or flight: make things right.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
I neither want nor expect it to happen, but if the world ends an hour from now, I have no complaints. You have done more than I can imagine to create an amazing world and I have had a very fine life.
My only regret would be that we humans have not done better with what you have provided and we have submitted too much to our fears of one another and of you, instead of loving one another and you.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
"Widows and orphans should be taught to fish so they can support themselves."
[No comment. He never said it.]
D. Blog: A Parable
The Prodigal Father
On the northernmost tip of Maine, in the village of Fort Kent, as remote as one can get from mainstream America, lived an elderly man. His children settled in more populated areas from New York to Virginia, and chose to live at a distance from the father they never understood.
The oldest son felt judged because he had not achieved great success. The middle daughter felt alienated because she had transgressed one of her parents’ prime directives about adultery, divorce, and remarriage. The youngest son ran away from home following a shouting match with his Dad; this came after he had gotten drunk and wrecked the family car. After a life of dissipation, petty crime, drugs and booze, he felt worthless and ashamed in his father’s presence.
Then the father received a diagnosis of terminal cancer, with a prognosis of a few months at most to live. After years of sporadic visits at best, the three children pledged to make an unusual effort. They scheduled their lives so that every two weeks one of them would make the long trip to visit their father.
The regular visits provided opportunity for some grace-filled leave taking. Father and children shared memories and histories. They spoke finally of the great themes of life: joy, peace, love, forgiveness, the meaning of it all, fear, hope, good, evil, suffering, grace. With death close, they drew closer.
Seeing their father in his feeble and lonely condition, each of the children came to understand his love for them, the pride he took in their smallest achievement, the pain he felt with all their struggles, his longing for their company. With the end near, the old man had no complaints. His children held him in their arms.
Saturday, September 8, 2007
What's Outdated?
A. Unabashed Pacifist:
“I won’t go to war because it’s dumb.” – Jeffrey, age 11.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
As my morning fog gradually dissipates, I see it slowly emerge, magnificent in its awesome splendor, the mountain of God – where it has stood all along.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
"Dad says to tell you: the Earth is not expendable. It will outlast you."
The actor Matt Damon caused a recent stir when he said James Bond is outdated. Damon’s own Bourne movies are, in contrast we may assume, up to date (indated?). In terms of technology and special effects and action, he has a point.
But I suggest that James Bond has style and class, whereas Bourne runs a maze. Bond was always at home with himself, whereas Bourne never really knows who he is. My own view is that I will watch Bourne for the adrenalin rush. I’ll enjoy Bond for the class – and I’ll watch some of those "outdated" Bond movies more than once. Once is enough with Bourne movies.
Other, perfectly functional things are also called outdated, especially by those interested in selling the newest fashions, whether in clothing or home building products or vehicles, and whether the updated versions function any better than those that are called out of fashion. In our house, the linoleum, “popcorn” ceilings, and counter top material must be updated, we hear, if we ever hope to sell our house. But they look fine. They work fine. I say we keep them.
I think we should declare some things not just outdated, but obsolete. How about making celebrity news out of fashion? Who really cares? How much room does ancient art take up in museums? Why?? More significantly, let’s call neoconservative politics, evangelical clergy as spokesmen (usually) of Christianity, the US imperial vision, or its divine blessing – all terribly outdated.
“I won’t go to war because it’s dumb.” – Jeffrey, age 11.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
As my morning fog gradually dissipates, I see it slowly emerge, magnificent in its awesome splendor, the mountain of God – where it has stood all along.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
"Dad says to tell you: the Earth is not expendable. It will outlast you."
[No, didn't say it - probably - but today He would, right?]
D. Blog: OutdatedThe actor Matt Damon caused a recent stir when he said James Bond is outdated. Damon’s own Bourne movies are, in contrast we may assume, up to date (indated?). In terms of technology and special effects and action, he has a point.
But I suggest that James Bond has style and class, whereas Bourne runs a maze. Bond was always at home with himself, whereas Bourne never really knows who he is. My own view is that I will watch Bourne for the adrenalin rush. I’ll enjoy Bond for the class – and I’ll watch some of those "outdated" Bond movies more than once. Once is enough with Bourne movies.
Other, perfectly functional things are also called outdated, especially by those interested in selling the newest fashions, whether in clothing or home building products or vehicles, and whether the updated versions function any better than those that are called out of fashion. In our house, the linoleum, “popcorn” ceilings, and counter top material must be updated, we hear, if we ever hope to sell our house. But they look fine. They work fine. I say we keep them.
I think we should declare some things not just outdated, but obsolete. How about making celebrity news out of fashion? Who really cares? How much room does ancient art take up in museums? Why?? More significantly, let’s call neoconservative politics, evangelical clergy as spokesmen (usually) of Christianity, the US imperial vision, or its divine blessing – all terribly outdated.
Friday, September 7, 2007
Giving Credit
A. Unabashed Pacifist:
My fear represents surrender to another's power or "protection." Only God merits my fear and surrender. Only God has the ultimate power to protect.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
Does it bother you that many people discount your vital role in the creation and operation of the universe?
Does the injustice get to you, that they think the cosmos could continue quite well without your influence?
Does the human hubris cause you pain - that we should make such extravagant claims for our pitiful scientific "discoveries" and technological "breakthroughs"?
I appreciate our continued learning, yet as a human being immersed in your glorious creation and basking in the marvel of existence, I admit to some shame and embarrassment at our childish short-sightedness.
You are awesome! We can do nothing without you!
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
"When I became a Christian, my life changed completely."
[He didn't say it. None of his disciples did. And the "completely" is impossible.]
D. Blog: Judgment Day
Judgment Day’s A Comin’
100 Prep Questions for the Final Exam (Part 10)
(10) What best demonstrates that you learned compassion?
(9) Do you expect to do more with eternal life than you did with your earthly life?
(8) Whom do you think should be excluded from heaven?
(7) What spiritual insight do you offer as your password to the spiritual realm of heaven?
(6) Wherein lay your treasure while on Earth?
(5) If you believe in hell, can you name people of other religions who won’t go there?
(4) What three people will be character references for you?
(3) When did you realize war doesn’t solve anything?
(2) How did you demonstrate love of neighbors?
(1) How did you demonstrate love of God?
My fear represents surrender to another's power or "protection." Only God merits my fear and surrender. Only God has the ultimate power to protect.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
Does it bother you that many people discount your vital role in the creation and operation of the universe?
Does the injustice get to you, that they think the cosmos could continue quite well without your influence?
Does the human hubris cause you pain - that we should make such extravagant claims for our pitiful scientific "discoveries" and technological "breakthroughs"?
I appreciate our continued learning, yet as a human being immersed in your glorious creation and basking in the marvel of existence, I admit to some shame and embarrassment at our childish short-sightedness.
You are awesome! We can do nothing without you!
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
"When I became a Christian, my life changed completely."
[He didn't say it. None of his disciples did. And the "completely" is impossible.]
D. Blog: Judgment Day
Judgment Day’s A Comin’
100 Prep Questions for the Final Exam (Part 10)
(10) What best demonstrates that you learned compassion?
(9) Do you expect to do more with eternal life than you did with your earthly life?
(8) Whom do you think should be excluded from heaven?
(7) What spiritual insight do you offer as your password to the spiritual realm of heaven?
(6) Wherein lay your treasure while on Earth?
(5) If you believe in hell, can you name people of other religions who won’t go there?
(4) What three people will be character references for you?
(3) When did you realize war doesn’t solve anything?
(2) How did you demonstrate love of neighbors?
(1) How did you demonstrate love of God?
Thursday, September 6, 2007
Looks Like a Boondoggle
A. Unabashed Pacifist:
War usually results from social/national pathologies. When a nation does not deal with its internal issues, war seems reasonable. The nation acts on its delusion.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
The world is in a mess.
The world is beautiful.
People are utterly depraved.
People are utterly loving.
We are controlled by our fears.
We are inspired by our faith.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“I have some bad news and some good news. Just kidding – I only have good news.”
[Such a jokester, but He never said it.]
D. Blog: Iraq Boondoggle?
If it fits…?
Boondoggle
Main Entry: boon·dog·gle
Pronunciation: bün-dä-g&l
Function: noun
Etymology: coined by Robert H. Link died 1957 American scoutmaster
1: a braided cord worn by Boy Scouts as a neckerchief slide, hatband, or ornament
2: a wasteful or impractical project or activity often involving graft
- boondoggle intransitive verb
[from Merriam-Webster’s Online Dictionary]
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia:
Boondoggle, in the sense of a term for a project that wastes time and money, first appeared during the Great Depression in the 1930s, referring to the millions of jobs given to unemployed men and women to try to get the economy moving again, as part of the New Deal. It came into common usage after a 1935 New York Times headline claimed that over $3 million had been spent teaching the jobless how to make boon doggles1.
In more recent times the term "Boondoggle" has come to refer to a government or corporate project involving large numbers of people and usually, heavy expenditure, where at some point the key operators have realized that the project is never going to work, but are reluctant to bring this to the attention of their superiors. Generally there is an aspect of "going through the motions", (for example, continuing research and development), for as long as funds are available to keep paying the researchers' and executives' salaries and so on. The situation can be allowed to continue for what seem like unreasonably long periods, as senior management are often reluctant to admit that they allowed a failed project to go on for so long. In many cases, the actual device itself may eventually work, but not well enough to ever recoup its development costs. The classic example of this situation is the many federally funded sites in the Nuclear Weapons Complex that many say have outlived their usefulness since the end of the cold war.
An important aspect of the Boondoggle, as opposed to a project that simply fails, is the eventual realization by its operators that it is never going to work, long before it is finally shut down. This is not the same thing as simply fraud, where the proponents know in advance that their idea has no merit.
One example of this was the RCA “SelectaVision” (CED) video disk system project, commenced in the early 1960s and allowed to drag on for nearly 20 years, long after cheaper and better alternatives had come to market. RCA was estimated to have spent about $750 million (1985 dollars) on this commercially useless system, which was one of the factors leading to its bankruptcy in 1988.
Another is the Anglo-French Concorde supersonic passenger aircraft. As with the Selectavision system, although actual planes were built and regular services maintained for decades, the income from this barely made a dent in the actual cost of the project. In this case, by the early 1970s it had already become painfully obvious that the advantages of supersonic flight were going to be nowhere near enough to compete with the low fares made possible by slower but much more cost-effective aircraft.
Boondoggle is also known in the business world, for trips taken to "exotic" or popular locations for a meeting. Usually, these meetings could have been either handled over the phone or not occurred all together.
Footnote
Note 1: "$3,187,000 relief is spent to teach jobless to play; $19,658,512 voted for April; 'Boon Doggles' Made", New York Times, April 4, 1935.
War usually results from social/national pathologies. When a nation does not deal with its internal issues, war seems reasonable. The nation acts on its delusion.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
The world is in a mess.
The world is beautiful.
People are utterly depraved.
People are utterly loving.
We are controlled by our fears.
We are inspired by our faith.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“I have some bad news and some good news. Just kidding – I only have good news.”
[Such a jokester, but He never said it.]
D. Blog: Iraq Boondoggle?
If it fits…?
Boondoggle
Main Entry: boon·dog·gle
Pronunciation: bün-dä-g&l
Function: noun
Etymology: coined by Robert H. Link died 1957 American scoutmaster
1: a braided cord worn by Boy Scouts as a neckerchief slide, hatband, or ornament
2: a wasteful or impractical project or activity often involving graft
- boondoggle intransitive verb
[from Merriam-Webster’s Online Dictionary]
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia:
Boondoggle, in the sense of a term for a project that wastes time and money, first appeared during the Great Depression in the 1930s, referring to the millions of jobs given to unemployed men and women to try to get the economy moving again, as part of the New Deal. It came into common usage after a 1935 New York Times headline claimed that over $3 million had been spent teaching the jobless how to make boon doggles1.
In more recent times the term "Boondoggle" has come to refer to a government or corporate project involving large numbers of people and usually, heavy expenditure, where at some point the key operators have realized that the project is never going to work, but are reluctant to bring this to the attention of their superiors. Generally there is an aspect of "going through the motions", (for example, continuing research and development), for as long as funds are available to keep paying the researchers' and executives' salaries and so on. The situation can be allowed to continue for what seem like unreasonably long periods, as senior management are often reluctant to admit that they allowed a failed project to go on for so long. In many cases, the actual device itself may eventually work, but not well enough to ever recoup its development costs. The classic example of this situation is the many federally funded sites in the Nuclear Weapons Complex that many say have outlived their usefulness since the end of the cold war.
An important aspect of the Boondoggle, as opposed to a project that simply fails, is the eventual realization by its operators that it is never going to work, long before it is finally shut down. This is not the same thing as simply fraud, where the proponents know in advance that their idea has no merit.
One example of this was the RCA “SelectaVision” (CED) video disk system project, commenced in the early 1960s and allowed to drag on for nearly 20 years, long after cheaper and better alternatives had come to market. RCA was estimated to have spent about $750 million (1985 dollars) on this commercially useless system, which was one of the factors leading to its bankruptcy in 1988.
Another is the Anglo-French Concorde supersonic passenger aircraft. As with the Selectavision system, although actual planes were built and regular services maintained for decades, the income from this barely made a dent in the actual cost of the project. In this case, by the early 1970s it had already become painfully obvious that the advantages of supersonic flight were going to be nowhere near enough to compete with the low fares made possible by slower but much more cost-effective aircraft.
Boondoggle is also known in the business world, for trips taken to "exotic" or popular locations for a meeting. Usually, these meetings could have been either handled over the phone or not occurred all together.
Footnote
Note 1: "$3,187,000 relief is spent to teach jobless to play; $19,658,512 voted for April; 'Boon Doggles' Made", New York Times, April 4, 1935.
Wednesday, September 5, 2007
What Does God Desire?
A. Unabashed Pacifist:
The drama of war is overrated. Old people send young people to fight for them. Young people kill one another. Young people kill old people, women and children. Old men profit. Young people who return are scarred and injured for the rest of their lives. Old people make up justifications for destroying countless lives. VICTORY - hoorah! DEATH TO TYRANNY - hoorah! FREEDOM - hoorah! DEMOCRACY - hoorah! OUR WAY OF LIFE - hah!
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
Through the haze, I see your "face."
Through the silence, I hear your "voice."
Through the vast library of human words, I read your "words."
Through the claims about Jesus, I meet a true "human being."
My life flows on, a melody played for you.
I hope you enjoy it.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
"My timing was off. I meant to arrive after sliced bread."
[The greatest before sliced bread? I'm sure He never said it.]
D. Blog: No to Sacrifice
God Does Not Desire Sacrifice
Sacrifice as a religious typology is a human creation. To cling to it as if God requires it ignores the great prophetic voices that dismiss sacrifice as irrelevant, distasteful even, to God. In much of Christian theology, the sacrifice typology has been imposed on Jesus in a misguided attempt to explain why the chosen one could be killed. In the process, Christians dismiss the fact that Jesus had nothing to do with the sacrificial system during his earthly life. He seems, in fact, to have challenged the entire system – overturning tables of those who sold sacrificial animals in the courtyard of the temple where sacrifices were to be made, and predicting the destruction of that very center of the system of religious sacrifices.
God has no interest in scapegoats or in human attempts to appease God. They are totally unnecessary and without effect. As Jesus said, the entire question of religious life boils down to this: do we love God? Do we love our neighbors? The sacrifice of life business has no place in God’s realm.
The drama of war is overrated. Old people send young people to fight for them. Young people kill one another. Young people kill old people, women and children. Old men profit. Young people who return are scarred and injured for the rest of their lives. Old people make up justifications for destroying countless lives. VICTORY - hoorah! DEATH TO TYRANNY - hoorah! FREEDOM - hoorah! DEMOCRACY - hoorah! OUR WAY OF LIFE - hah!
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
Through the haze, I see your "face."
Through the silence, I hear your "voice."
Through the vast library of human words, I read your "words."
Through the claims about Jesus, I meet a true "human being."
My life flows on, a melody played for you.
I hope you enjoy it.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
"My timing was off. I meant to arrive after sliced bread."
[The greatest before sliced bread? I'm sure He never said it.]
D. Blog: No to Sacrifice
God Does Not Desire Sacrifice
Sacrifice as a religious typology is a human creation. To cling to it as if God requires it ignores the great prophetic voices that dismiss sacrifice as irrelevant, distasteful even, to God. In much of Christian theology, the sacrifice typology has been imposed on Jesus in a misguided attempt to explain why the chosen one could be killed. In the process, Christians dismiss the fact that Jesus had nothing to do with the sacrificial system during his earthly life. He seems, in fact, to have challenged the entire system – overturning tables of those who sold sacrificial animals in the courtyard of the temple where sacrifices were to be made, and predicting the destruction of that very center of the system of religious sacrifices.
God has no interest in scapegoats or in human attempts to appease God. They are totally unnecessary and without effect. As Jesus said, the entire question of religious life boils down to this: do we love God? Do we love our neighbors? The sacrifice of life business has no place in God’s realm.
Tuesday, September 4, 2007
Priority Claims
A. Unabashed Pacifist:
Can you say "peace," boys and girls? Try it, you might like it.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
We care more about oversized and overly-"designed" houses than we do about homeless people.
You must get tired of our lack of compassion.
We care more about oversized, gas-guzzling vehicles than we do about doing something about polluted air and global warming.
You must get tired of our selfish priorities.
We care more about our own comfort than we do about halting genocidal atrocity and war.
You must get tired of our apathy and complacency.
We care more about hiccups in the stock market than we do about the quality of health care for our citizens.
You must get tired of our greed.
We care more about the recent episode of our favorite sit-com or soap opera than we do about educating children.
You must get tired of our misplaced values.
We care more about celebrities and sporting events than we do about spiritual development.
You must get tired of our stupidity.
I wonder... if you had it to do over, would you?
Yes, I know.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
"My way is the high way."
[If anyone had the right to say it, He did. But He didn't, not in so many words.]
D. Blog: New Month & Day Names
My suggestions for alternative names for months and days:
Instead of February, Patience.
Instead of March, Kindness.
Instead of April, Love.
Instead of May, Generosity.
Instead of June, Hope.
Instead of July, Justice.
Instead of August, Peace.
Instead of September, Truth.
Instead of October, Wisdom.
Instead of November, Humility.
Instead of December, Forgiveness.
Sunday becomes SonDay
Monday becomes PennDay
Tuesday becomes BachDay
Wednesday becomes WaldenDay
Thursday becomes ThoreauDay
Friday becomes FranklinDay
Saturday becomes ShakespeareDay
Can you say "peace," boys and girls? Try it, you might like it.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
We care more about oversized and overly-"designed" houses than we do about homeless people.
You must get tired of our lack of compassion.
We care more about oversized, gas-guzzling vehicles than we do about doing something about polluted air and global warming.
You must get tired of our selfish priorities.
We care more about our own comfort than we do about halting genocidal atrocity and war.
You must get tired of our apathy and complacency.
We care more about hiccups in the stock market than we do about the quality of health care for our citizens.
You must get tired of our greed.
We care more about the recent episode of our favorite sit-com or soap opera than we do about educating children.
You must get tired of our misplaced values.
We care more about celebrities and sporting events than we do about spiritual development.
You must get tired of our stupidity.
I wonder... if you had it to do over, would you?
Yes, I know.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
"My way is the high way."
[If anyone had the right to say it, He did. But He didn't, not in so many words.]
D. Blog: New Month & Day Names
My suggestions for alternative names for months and days:
Instead of February, Patience.
Instead of March, Kindness.
Instead of April, Love.
Instead of May, Generosity.
Instead of June, Hope.
Instead of July, Justice.
Instead of August, Peace.
Instead of September, Truth.
Instead of October, Wisdom.
Instead of November, Humility.
Instead of December, Forgiveness.
Sunday becomes SonDay
Monday becomes PennDay
Tuesday becomes BachDay
Wednesday becomes WaldenDay
Thursday becomes ThoreauDay
Friday becomes FranklinDay
Saturday becomes ShakespeareDay
Monday, September 3, 2007
Judging Christianity
A. Unabashed Pacifist:
I never march. The different drummer leads me on walks in the woods.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
I love how you love me.
You light up my life.
Have I told you lately that I love you?
How can I live without you?
Your love keeps taking me higher.
You've got me, Babe.
You probably think this song's about you.
You're right, of course.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
"I am the light. But don't light up; lighten up."
[Too many religious folks need to hear this, but He never said it - probably.]
D. Blog:
Quoting the sign in front of a nearby church:
"Judge Christianity by Jesus, not by we imperfect followers."
Some of my reactions:
-Even Microsoft Word prompts to correct the improper pronoun following the preposition.
-I suppose the author of the quotation might be using irony by employing incorrect usage. Followers of Jesus are imperfect, including in our use of language. Get it? The corollary follows: "Judge good English by grammar books, not by we imperfect users of the language."
-If the author was not intending irony, then the current sentence might clarify the grammatical error for he or she.
-Intentional or not, will the author of the quote (with which I agree, apart from the grammatical error) also grant that the writers, scribes and translators of the Bible made similar errors in the manuscripts they passed along to us?
-Then finally, judge Jesus by his words and deeds, not by He imperfect Christianity .
I never march. The different drummer leads me on walks in the woods.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
I love how you love me.
You light up my life.
Have I told you lately that I love you?
How can I live without you?
Your love keeps taking me higher.
You've got me, Babe.
You probably think this song's about you.
You're right, of course.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
"I am the light. But don't light up; lighten up."
[Too many religious folks need to hear this, but He never said it - probably.]
D. Blog:
Quoting the sign in front of a nearby church:
"Judge Christianity by Jesus, not by we imperfect followers."
Some of my reactions:
-Even Microsoft Word prompts to correct the improper pronoun following the preposition.
-I suppose the author of the quotation might be using irony by employing incorrect usage. Followers of Jesus are imperfect, including in our use of language. Get it? The corollary follows: "Judge good English by grammar books, not by we imperfect users of the language."
-If the author was not intending irony, then the current sentence might clarify the grammatical error for he or she.
-Intentional or not, will the author of the quote (with which I agree, apart from the grammatical error) also grant that the writers, scribes and translators of the Bible made similar errors in the manuscripts they passed along to us?
-Then finally, judge Jesus by his words and deeds, not by He imperfect Christianity .
Sunday, September 2, 2007
Know God?
A. Unabashed Pacifist:
Peace does not compromise justice.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
A few minutes a day will not suffice.
An hour a week will not suffice.
A day, a week - but tokens.
Worshipping you is at least a full-time occupation.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
"Would one of you guys be my prayer partner?"
[James and John might have come to blows for the honor, so He never said it.]
D. Blog: Parable of Listeners
"Having ears to hear..."
A man went about telling stories. Some listeners heard fine
moral endings to the stories, so they said, "This man is a
wonderful teacher." Other listeners heard criticism in the
stories, so they said, "This man is dangerous." But some
listeners heard and entered a new world in the stories. What do they say of the story teller?
---
"Having ears to hear (II)..."
A man went about telling stories. Some listeners could not
understand the stories, so they said, "Stories are nonsense."
Other listeners, seeing no useful purpose in the stories,
dismissed them with the words, "Stories are for children." But
other listeners heard truth in the stories, so they said, "God
tells stories."
---
Why did Jesus tell parables? How do you respond to story-
tellers? What portions of scripture are most vivid for you?
What type of biblical material is most revealing of God for you?
Peace does not compromise justice.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
A few minutes a day will not suffice.
An hour a week will not suffice.
A day, a week - but tokens.
Worshipping you is at least a full-time occupation.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
"Would one of you guys be my prayer partner?"
[James and John might have come to blows for the honor, so He never said it.]
D. Blog: Parable of Listeners
"Having ears to hear..."
A man went about telling stories. Some listeners heard fine
moral endings to the stories, so they said, "This man is a
wonderful teacher." Other listeners heard criticism in the
stories, so they said, "This man is dangerous." But some
listeners heard and entered a new world in the stories. What do they say of the story teller?
---
"Having ears to hear (II)..."
A man went about telling stories. Some listeners could not
understand the stories, so they said, "Stories are nonsense."
Other listeners, seeing no useful purpose in the stories,
dismissed them with the words, "Stories are for children." But
other listeners heard truth in the stories, so they said, "God
tells stories."
---
Why did Jesus tell parables? How do you respond to story-
tellers? What portions of scripture are most vivid for you?
What type of biblical material is most revealing of God for you?
Saturday, September 1, 2007
Speaking of Words
A. Unabashed Pacifist:
When the saints go marching in, they won't be carrying weapons.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
You fill my senses,
when I don't pollute them, when I don't dull them
with unwelcome abundance of things and activities.
You fill my senses,
when I free them, when I release them
from their addictions.
You fill my senses,
and then
there is room for love.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
"Don't step on my blue suede sandals!"
[The King perhaps, but no, He didn't say it.]
D. Blog: What a Word!
When we bought our house, our real estate agent (now friend, Marissa) introduced me to the term "flipping houses." Now, of course, it's all the rage, with TV shows devoted to the practice. I agree with those who criticize it. Oh, I don't know that it actually contributes to rising costs of housing, but I do know it contributes to pollution of the language.
I feel pretty certain that nobody can actually flip a house. "You choose. If it lands on the roof, your team receives. On the floor, our team does. On a side means flip again."
Personally, the only house flipping I can imagine involves bird houses.
When the saints go marching in, they won't be carrying weapons.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
You fill my senses,
when I don't pollute them, when I don't dull them
with unwelcome abundance of things and activities.
You fill my senses,
when I free them, when I release them
from their addictions.
You fill my senses,
and then
there is room for love.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
"Don't step on my blue suede sandals!"
[The King perhaps, but no, He didn't say it.]
D. Blog: What a Word!
When we bought our house, our real estate agent (now friend, Marissa) introduced me to the term "flipping houses." Now, of course, it's all the rage, with TV shows devoted to the practice. I agree with those who criticize it. Oh, I don't know that it actually contributes to rising costs of housing, but I do know it contributes to pollution of the language.
I feel pretty certain that nobody can actually flip a house. "You choose. If it lands on the roof, your team receives. On the floor, our team does. On a side means flip again."
Personally, the only house flipping I can imagine involves bird houses.
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