Fall has been slowly making its presence known for some weeks now. Perhaps football is the earliest harbinger of this season, but, cooler nights and turning leaves are the more official notices that summer is gone.
I enjoy the changing weather of Fall. No longer is the heat oppressive -- although in the Texas Panhandle, the heat is almost never oppressive.
In past years Fall meant hunting. It seems that opportunities for hunting are few and far between for me anymore. I still enjoy it, I just don't have much chance to participate.
There is one aspect of Fall that I dislike intensely -- the dust and "beeswings" from the local grain elevators. It is inescapable. It makes my eyes itch.
I suppose I shouldn't complain though, it is a sign of harvest. Producing food and fiber is what keeps our local economy humming when much of the country continues to suffer from a dependency on "higher level" industries which currently are struggling.
So, bring on the dust of Fall.
Thursday, October 7, 2010
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Logical Creationism
If I decided to play God and build life, how would I logically start?
One thought is that I might start with a simple protein. I could then replicate that protein with slight variations until I had a number of them that could be combined for a particular function -- much like modules in a computer software are developed. By continuing the process of replication and alteration, I could begin to build more and more complex organisms.
In order to shortcut the process, it would be logical to build proteins that were capable of multiple functions depending on specific coded switches within them to determine how they would act. Again, software is built similarly. Over time, various modules could be "plugged" together to create a wide variety of organisms/biological machines that would display a huge variety of characteristics.
It would also be logical for simplicity sake to make the organisms self-sustaining through the ability to feed themselves and to reproduce.
If, at the end of a relatively long period of time, the knowledge to create these organisms was lost, it would be a matter of examining the wide variety of then living organisms to begin the process of analyzing them for clues of how they were made. From the evidence available, it would appear that an evolutionary process occurred that involved tiny mutations at the most basic structural level (the protein) in order for such variety to arise. A "Theory of Evolution" from an unknown source (primordial soup) of the original proteins would be a logical conclusion. Although incorrect, such a theory would be "intuitively obvious" because of the minute differences in the makeup of various beings. In fact, the genetic makeup of organisms as different as chimpanzees and humans would vary by only a tiny percentage.
Suppose the purpose of the creation process was ultimately to create a thinking being that would over time grow to a developmental level that would provide companionship for the original creator? Suppose that to enter into such a relationship required the "leap" into a realm beyond the physical limitations of the created order? Suppose that a "roadmap" was created to provide guidance to the created, self-replicating, thinking beings to find the "keys" to make that leap into the next realm which was in itself a "sifting" process?
Hmmm....like in most things, I won't get the patent on this one. It seems to me that it has already been done.
If you are interested in what the current scientific thought on this might be, try the article linked here.
One thought is that I might start with a simple protein. I could then replicate that protein with slight variations until I had a number of them that could be combined for a particular function -- much like modules in a computer software are developed. By continuing the process of replication and alteration, I could begin to build more and more complex organisms.
In order to shortcut the process, it would be logical to build proteins that were capable of multiple functions depending on specific coded switches within them to determine how they would act. Again, software is built similarly. Over time, various modules could be "plugged" together to create a wide variety of organisms/biological machines that would display a huge variety of characteristics.
It would also be logical for simplicity sake to make the organisms self-sustaining through the ability to feed themselves and to reproduce.
If, at the end of a relatively long period of time, the knowledge to create these organisms was lost, it would be a matter of examining the wide variety of then living organisms to begin the process of analyzing them for clues of how they were made. From the evidence available, it would appear that an evolutionary process occurred that involved tiny mutations at the most basic structural level (the protein) in order for such variety to arise. A "Theory of Evolution" from an unknown source (primordial soup) of the original proteins would be a logical conclusion. Although incorrect, such a theory would be "intuitively obvious" because of the minute differences in the makeup of various beings. In fact, the genetic makeup of organisms as different as chimpanzees and humans would vary by only a tiny percentage.
Suppose the purpose of the creation process was ultimately to create a thinking being that would over time grow to a developmental level that would provide companionship for the original creator? Suppose that to enter into such a relationship required the "leap" into a realm beyond the physical limitations of the created order? Suppose that a "roadmap" was created to provide guidance to the created, self-replicating, thinking beings to find the "keys" to make that leap into the next realm which was in itself a "sifting" process?
Hmmm....like in most things, I won't get the patent on this one. It seems to me that it has already been done.
If you are interested in what the current scientific thought on this might be, try the article linked here.
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Leaping Beyond Knowledge
Occasionally, I will take on, or at least attempt, the debate of some topic or statement made by those who fall into an atheistic or agnostic category. Such individuals are usually highly intelligent and highly educated. Almost without exception they are highly self-focused.
Debating atheists/agnostics is difficult. They all have a set of canned arguments that generally end in some form of calling you ignorant/uneducated, etc. I try to stick to a reasoned, educated, informed argument but, there are many times that I run out of answers. There almost always comes a time though, of complete rejection by the person with whom I am "discussing" the topic with my position. I suspect such an abrupt end comes for one of two reasons; either 1) I hit close to home or 2) they become frustrated with my unwillingness to "cave" to their position.
Again, most who are in the atheist or agnostic camp are highly educated. I don't see their belief system as a result of their education, I see it as a part of the same makeup that drives them to a higher level of education. Perhaps it is a drive to know and understand, or maybe just a rejection of that which can't be explained. It seems tied to a high level of intelligence. But, along with that intelligence comes a sense of reliance on self-understanding. A sense that if I can't touch it, feel it, understand it, it can't be real. It is a rejection of the concept of the unexplainable. It is the idea that if "I" only had more information, "I" could understand it/repeat it/whatever. It is the placing of "self" at the pinnacle. Yet, those same individuals are the first to believe that man evolved from a "primordial soup" into this "high" being of which they are among the elite highest. And they are often the first to place mankind in general on the same level as animals or even inanimate objects.
(Aside: It is tempting at this point to state that one of the distinguishing points between Liberals and Conservatives is a "humility" toward self, but, some of the most arrogant individuals I have ever met are Conservatives. It just seems there are a greater number of arrogant Liberals.)
The placing of "self" above God is where it all started. Satan thought he was just as smart as God and set himself up in opposition to Him. In the Garden of Eden man thought, through the prompting of Satan, that he knew as well as God and chose to eat the fruit of the forbidden tree in opposition to God. Hmmm....seems to me to be the same disease -- self in opposition to God.
To me, our very existence requires a Creator. The Creator must lie outside the created. That which is within the created cannot know the Creator except as the Creator reveals Himself to us. Trying to understand the creation by looking from the inside out is like the blind men and the elephant. One sees a rope, another a tree, another a wall, yet none see the totality with any sense of understanding because they only see a part of the whole.
I believe mankind has tremendous cumulative knowlege of the created order. I also believe there is tremendous misunderstanding of that knowledge. Wisdom is the proper understanding and application of knowledge. Do I claim wisdom for myself? Only to the extent that I understand that my knowledge is incomplete and therefore imperfect. I also realize that perfect knowledge lies beyond the scope of human understanding -- either individually or cumulatively.
Belief in a Creator requires a leap of faith. It is a leap to something that defies explanation and is by definition greater than self or the cumulative knowledge of man. It is a leap that seems especially difficult for some.
Debating atheists/agnostics is difficult. They all have a set of canned arguments that generally end in some form of calling you ignorant/uneducated, etc. I try to stick to a reasoned, educated, informed argument but, there are many times that I run out of answers. There almost always comes a time though, of complete rejection by the person with whom I am "discussing" the topic with my position. I suspect such an abrupt end comes for one of two reasons; either 1) I hit close to home or 2) they become frustrated with my unwillingness to "cave" to their position.
Again, most who are in the atheist or agnostic camp are highly educated. I don't see their belief system as a result of their education, I see it as a part of the same makeup that drives them to a higher level of education. Perhaps it is a drive to know and understand, or maybe just a rejection of that which can't be explained. It seems tied to a high level of intelligence. But, along with that intelligence comes a sense of reliance on self-understanding. A sense that if I can't touch it, feel it, understand it, it can't be real. It is a rejection of the concept of the unexplainable. It is the idea that if "I" only had more information, "I" could understand it/repeat it/whatever. It is the placing of "self" at the pinnacle. Yet, those same individuals are the first to believe that man evolved from a "primordial soup" into this "high" being of which they are among the elite highest. And they are often the first to place mankind in general on the same level as animals or even inanimate objects.
(Aside: It is tempting at this point to state that one of the distinguishing points between Liberals and Conservatives is a "humility" toward self, but, some of the most arrogant individuals I have ever met are Conservatives. It just seems there are a greater number of arrogant Liberals.)
The placing of "self" above God is where it all started. Satan thought he was just as smart as God and set himself up in opposition to Him. In the Garden of Eden man thought, through the prompting of Satan, that he knew as well as God and chose to eat the fruit of the forbidden tree in opposition to God. Hmmm....seems to me to be the same disease -- self in opposition to God.
To me, our very existence requires a Creator. The Creator must lie outside the created. That which is within the created cannot know the Creator except as the Creator reveals Himself to us. Trying to understand the creation by looking from the inside out is like the blind men and the elephant. One sees a rope, another a tree, another a wall, yet none see the totality with any sense of understanding because they only see a part of the whole.
I believe mankind has tremendous cumulative knowlege of the created order. I also believe there is tremendous misunderstanding of that knowledge. Wisdom is the proper understanding and application of knowledge. Do I claim wisdom for myself? Only to the extent that I understand that my knowledge is incomplete and therefore imperfect. I also realize that perfect knowledge lies beyond the scope of human understanding -- either individually or cumulatively.
Belief in a Creator requires a leap of faith. It is a leap to something that defies explanation and is by definition greater than self or the cumulative knowledge of man. It is a leap that seems especially difficult for some.
Saturday, September 4, 2010
A New Website
I've set up a new website. It is for sales/business consulting. It's still pretty basic but, it's a start. Check it out at C Bar M Enterprises!
Friday, September 3, 2010
Blog Struggle
I've really been struggling with blogging lately. I began with lofty ideals as well as ideas -- but, it seems the heights have eluded me. Perhaps it is my illusion of self-importance or, merely a misguided approach.
I've considered changing the direction of my Panhandle Poetry blog -- you know, something of an "extreme blog makeover" which would change the look and feel as well as the content. But, as I examined what was contained within the present content I realized that there is no direction currently. That brings up an excellent point. When you don't know where you are going, how are you gonna get there?
So, lofty ideals aside, maybe I just need to choose a destination and then I will know in what direction I should travel! Or, will I?
My favorite professor at A&M once told me, "There's a lot of truth in that old saying that there's more than one way to skin a cat."
I have found many times that the wisdom in those words knows few boundaries.
So, I will continue to struggle with blogging until revelation strikes. Of course, if there are any remaining readers out there in Blog Land, I would relish your input and opinions!
I've considered changing the direction of my Panhandle Poetry blog -- you know, something of an "extreme blog makeover" which would change the look and feel as well as the content. But, as I examined what was contained within the present content I realized that there is no direction currently. That brings up an excellent point. When you don't know where you are going, how are you gonna get there?
So, lofty ideals aside, maybe I just need to choose a destination and then I will know in what direction I should travel! Or, will I?
My favorite professor at A&M once told me, "There's a lot of truth in that old saying that there's more than one way to skin a cat."
I have found many times that the wisdom in those words knows few boundaries.
So, I will continue to struggle with blogging until revelation strikes. Of course, if there are any remaining readers out there in Blog Land, I would relish your input and opinions!
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
This Got My Attention
I recently read The Last Jihad (Political Thrillers Series #1)
by Joel C. Rosenberg. A little history on the book: It was written pre-9/11 but uncannily predicts a major terrorist attack and war with Iraq. It was not published until after a "moderating" period and then with minor changes because of the recent history. One of the centerpieces of the story is the discovery of major natural gas reserves off the coast of Israel and Lebanon.
Natural gas could lead to new Lebanon-Israel war
Eerie.....
The book was one that I couldn't put down. I now have to read the rest of the series.
by Joel C. Rosenberg. A little history on the book: It was written pre-9/11 but uncannily predicts a major terrorist attack and war with Iraq. It was not published until after a "moderating" period and then with minor changes because of the recent history. One of the centerpieces of the story is the discovery of major natural gas reserves off the coast of Israel and Lebanon.Natural gas could lead to new Lebanon-Israel war
Eerie.....
The book was one that I couldn't put down. I now have to read the rest of the series.
Saturday, July 24, 2010
A Visit to the Mountain Oyster Club
This past Wednesday, I was one of the presenters at a Cattlemen's gathering at the famed Mountain Oyster Club in Tucson, Arizona. It is a private club with limited membership. The gathering was tremendously successful. It's too bad that I couldn't take photos inside the club. Of course, all I had with me was my Blackberry. I've GOT to start taking my camera with me when I travel!
There is beautiful Southwestern Art throughout the club as well as historic photos. Of course, the theme of Mountain Oysters is evident about anywhere that you look.
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
God in the Science Classroom
First, let me say that I believe that God created the heavens and the earth and everything in them. That is not to say that I understand how he did it.
Science, the study of the natural world, arose from man's desire to better understand God's creation. Most early scientists had a strong belief in God -- whether Muslim, Greek, Jew, Buddhist, Hindu or Christian. However, over the years, as scientists gained greater understanding of the created order, they began to subscribe to the idea that there was no God. This is a logical conclusion when one accepts the concept that what is knowable cannot be of something beyond comprehension -- i.e. God. In order to be God as Creator, it must be accepted that he exists as a being greater than man. Therefore, if man can understand what is, then there must be no being greater than man.
The problem that scientists run into is that in spite of their great knowlege and ever increasing understanding of the created, there is always something more -- something beyond their understanding. The fact that they continue to understand more, however, leads to the conclusion that they can understand all. This, I believe, is one reason so many in the scientific community have rejected God.
The article linked below was written by an atheist science teacher. It is a very thoughtful essay.
God in the classroom
All science teachers, whatever their specialism, have to deal with questions about God. We should be prepared
Science, the study of the natural world, arose from man's desire to better understand God's creation. Most early scientists had a strong belief in God -- whether Muslim, Greek, Jew, Buddhist, Hindu or Christian. However, over the years, as scientists gained greater understanding of the created order, they began to subscribe to the idea that there was no God. This is a logical conclusion when one accepts the concept that what is knowable cannot be of something beyond comprehension -- i.e. God. In order to be God as Creator, it must be accepted that he exists as a being greater than man. Therefore, if man can understand what is, then there must be no being greater than man.
The problem that scientists run into is that in spite of their great knowlege and ever increasing understanding of the created, there is always something more -- something beyond their understanding. The fact that they continue to understand more, however, leads to the conclusion that they can understand all. This, I believe, is one reason so many in the scientific community have rejected God.
The article linked below was written by an atheist science teacher. It is a very thoughtful essay.
God in the classroom
All science teachers, whatever their specialism, have to deal with questions about God. We should be prepared
Friday, July 16, 2010
Reactivation
Not that I ever really completely gave up maintaining multiple blogs, but, I did take an extended break from doing so. But, so that you know, for those 2 or 3 of you who might be interested, I've gone back to posting (at least for now) regularly at "Panhandle's Perspective." It is a bit more political than "Panhandle Poetry and Other Thoughts."
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
Break
I've been enjoying a short break from travel for a couple of weeks now. It has taken some readjustment!
There have been plenty of things to keep me busy though. I have a presentation to a group of cattlemen next week that I've been preparing for as well as a convention/trade show where I will have a booth -- both in Tucson, Arizona. The following week I will be doing a half-day training session for a large ranch in Central Texas. They sell genetics in various forms and employ several full-time salesmen. Their manager asked me to come do a Sales Training seminar for them. I am excited about it but, it has taken a lot of preparation because that is not the type of training that I normally do other than for my own staff. This will be a more formal type of program.
You never know what life will throw your way! The Sales Training request came "out-of-the-blue". The thing most interesting about it to me is that lately I believe God has been impressing on me that I need to spend time passing on what I have learned to others. The timing of the request was, shall we say, attention getting!
There have been plenty of things to keep me busy though. I have a presentation to a group of cattlemen next week that I've been preparing for as well as a convention/trade show where I will have a booth -- both in Tucson, Arizona. The following week I will be doing a half-day training session for a large ranch in Central Texas. They sell genetics in various forms and employ several full-time salesmen. Their manager asked me to come do a Sales Training seminar for them. I am excited about it but, it has taken a lot of preparation because that is not the type of training that I normally do other than for my own staff. This will be a more formal type of program.
You never know what life will throw your way! The Sales Training request came "out-of-the-blue". The thing most interesting about it to me is that lately I believe God has been impressing on me that I need to spend time passing on what I have learned to others. The timing of the request was, shall we say, attention getting!
Saturday, July 10, 2010
Arizona: The Catalyst for Leadership?
I'll be out in Arizona the week after next. Do you think I'll need my passport?
There are no Statesmen in leadership positions in our government anymore, only self-serving, power seeking, vote hungry politicians.
There have been people of that caliber in local, state and national politics since the founding of our country. I think the difference today is that there are so few who do not fit that description that they are not only ineffective but unnoticed.
Is the "Tea Party" the answer? Maybe it is the beginnings of one. It is a symptom but, likely not the cure. It is a symptom of the dissatisfaction of a large portion of the American public with politics as usual. It lacks cohesiveness.
It is time for a strong leader to step forward and energize not only the dissatisfied, but also the rational thinkers who would restore sanity to our government. I believe that people like Sarah Palin and Jan Brewer will play a role in shaping the resistance to the drift toward failure of the Republic, but, it will take someone completely outside the system to provide the type of leadership needed.
Big government is not the answer. Individual, corporate, media and government accountability for their actions is what is needed. We require a properly informed public willing to throw the "bums" out. Therein lies a valid reason for limiting who can vote.
One step in establishing qualifications for voting would be to adhere to the requirements for obtaining citizenship. If voters were required to pass the test for citizenship as well as to endure the required waiting period provided by law for those aliens following the proper steps for naturalization, the number of voters would be significantly reduced. (You can see a sample of study questions here.)
The road we as a Nation are traveling is similar in many ways to that traveled by the Romans. We have traveled it much faster than they did. I wonder if Charlie Daniels will still be around to "play the fiddle" while we burn.
As we examine the shaping battle over Immigration, let us not forget that we are all descendants of immigrants (that includes so-called Native Americans). Most of our ancestors came legally. They earned their citizenship.
The Southern border of our country has been in turmoil through much of our history. It has seen incursions from Mexicans and it has been crossed by U.S. troops (and Texas Rangers) in pursuit. It has a rather porous history. In those times when the violence of criminal elements became excessive, the citizens usually stepped up first and the military reluctantly followed much later. With the possible exception of the administration of George W. Bush, Washington has always lacked the political will to take preemptive, proactive steps. It has always been slow to act (with very few exceptions in history) until the people rose up in anger at their inactivity.
The border is part of "flyover" country. The rich and powerful (this includes the majority of national elected figures), living in the isolated luxury of the suburbs on the East Coast or certain sections of the West Coast see no urgency to our problems. Until they begin to feel the "sting" within their protected environs, they will not act. Money still drives political will in our national Capitol.
I suspect there are those among them who profit from the drug and human trafficking. It wouldn't be the first time in history that wealth was built on illegal trade (Rum Runners and Slavers). Globalization of such enterprises has followed a general globalization of big business. It also makes interdiction more difficult.
The way we vote is a beginning, but, political activism must go beyond voting. We need to sound a steady drumbeat of pressure on Washington to address the problems we face. Those problems go far beyond the issue of Immigration, but, perhaps it will be the catalyst for action.
There are no Statesmen in leadership positions in our government anymore, only self-serving, power seeking, vote hungry politicians.
There have been people of that caliber in local, state and national politics since the founding of our country. I think the difference today is that there are so few who do not fit that description that they are not only ineffective but unnoticed.
Is the "Tea Party" the answer? Maybe it is the beginnings of one. It is a symptom but, likely not the cure. It is a symptom of the dissatisfaction of a large portion of the American public with politics as usual. It lacks cohesiveness.
It is time for a strong leader to step forward and energize not only the dissatisfied, but also the rational thinkers who would restore sanity to our government. I believe that people like Sarah Palin and Jan Brewer will play a role in shaping the resistance to the drift toward failure of the Republic, but, it will take someone completely outside the system to provide the type of leadership needed.
Big government is not the answer. Individual, corporate, media and government accountability for their actions is what is needed. We require a properly informed public willing to throw the "bums" out. Therein lies a valid reason for limiting who can vote.
One step in establishing qualifications for voting would be to adhere to the requirements for obtaining citizenship. If voters were required to pass the test for citizenship as well as to endure the required waiting period provided by law for those aliens following the proper steps for naturalization, the number of voters would be significantly reduced. (You can see a sample of study questions here.)
The road we as a Nation are traveling is similar in many ways to that traveled by the Romans. We have traveled it much faster than they did. I wonder if Charlie Daniels will still be around to "play the fiddle" while we burn.
As we examine the shaping battle over Immigration, let us not forget that we are all descendants of immigrants (that includes so-called Native Americans). Most of our ancestors came legally. They earned their citizenship.
The Southern border of our country has been in turmoil through much of our history. It has seen incursions from Mexicans and it has been crossed by U.S. troops (and Texas Rangers) in pursuit. It has a rather porous history. In those times when the violence of criminal elements became excessive, the citizens usually stepped up first and the military reluctantly followed much later. With the possible exception of the administration of George W. Bush, Washington has always lacked the political will to take preemptive, proactive steps. It has always been slow to act (with very few exceptions in history) until the people rose up in anger at their inactivity.
The border is part of "flyover" country. The rich and powerful (this includes the majority of national elected figures), living in the isolated luxury of the suburbs on the East Coast or certain sections of the West Coast see no urgency to our problems. Until they begin to feel the "sting" within their protected environs, they will not act. Money still drives political will in our national Capitol.
I suspect there are those among them who profit from the drug and human trafficking. It wouldn't be the first time in history that wealth was built on illegal trade (Rum Runners and Slavers). Globalization of such enterprises has followed a general globalization of big business. It also makes interdiction more difficult.
The way we vote is a beginning, but, political activism must go beyond voting. We need to sound a steady drumbeat of pressure on Washington to address the problems we face. Those problems go far beyond the issue of Immigration, but, perhaps it will be the catalyst for action.
Thursday, July 8, 2010
Why Do We Do What We Do?
Why do we do what we do for a living? This is a question that I believe we all need to ask ourselves from time-to-time.
I think the answers would surprise those who know us. I think that if we are truly honest with ourselves, the answer might surprise us.
I look back through the years at my "raising" as well as my education -- both formal and on-the-job -- and at my career(s) and can see that where I have been has shaped where I am. I suppose that is only logical and is true for pretty much everyone. But, what I really mean is that there seems to be a definitive "shaping" of who I am that prepared me for what I am doing.
Such a view obviously implies a belief in Divine Guidance. Yes, I do believe that God actively works in our lives to shape us into what He would have us to be. Does that include our career? Perhaps, because it is such an integral part of our life and exerts tremendous shaping influences on us.
I become frustrated when I hear someone talk about how bad it is that when we visit with others the conversation almost always turns to work. This occurs with friends, acquaintances and people that we have just met. It is especially common in men. Women often turn to the topic of family rather than career. But, I believe God designed them uniquely for a nurturing role.
Our career is often a place where we can serve others. Yes, many are very self-serving in their jobs, but, it doesn't have to be so. Whatever we do -- unless illegal, immoral or unethical -- can be done in a way that others benefit.
If a person is unhappy with what they are doing, it is likely that there is something about their reason for doing it that is not right. I suppose that some belief systems might refer to it as being in harmony with ourselves. I think that it is a result of either not being in the job that you are made for or doing the job for the wrong reason. Which brings us to attitude.
If our attitude is one of service to others, any job can take on a completely different complexion. If we are sweeping floors and cleaning toilets, it can be with the attitude that I am providing a clean environment for others and therefore making their lives better. However, if it is just for the paycheck, I will likely feel that it is a demeaning job.
I believe that God designed each of us with a purpose. We are shaped by Him to serve others. If we find what it is that He has designed us to do and pursue it with all of our heart in service to Him and to our fellow man, we will find joy and happiness in our life. And, we will be successful.
I think that it was Sam Walton who said something to the effect that, "Success is achieved by serving others. The greater the service, the greater the success." -- and if he didn't say it, my apologies, he should have!
Psalm 139:13-16
13 For you created my inmost being;
you knit me together in my mother's womb.
14 I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
your works are wonderful,
I know that full well.
15 My frame was not hidden from you
when I was made in the secret place.
When I was woven together in the depths of the earth,
16 your eyes saw my unformed body.
All the days ordained for me
were written in your book
before one of them came to be.
I think the answers would surprise those who know us. I think that if we are truly honest with ourselves, the answer might surprise us.
I look back through the years at my "raising" as well as my education -- both formal and on-the-job -- and at my career(s) and can see that where I have been has shaped where I am. I suppose that is only logical and is true for pretty much everyone. But, what I really mean is that there seems to be a definitive "shaping" of who I am that prepared me for what I am doing.
Such a view obviously implies a belief in Divine Guidance. Yes, I do believe that God actively works in our lives to shape us into what He would have us to be. Does that include our career? Perhaps, because it is such an integral part of our life and exerts tremendous shaping influences on us.
I become frustrated when I hear someone talk about how bad it is that when we visit with others the conversation almost always turns to work. This occurs with friends, acquaintances and people that we have just met. It is especially common in men. Women often turn to the topic of family rather than career. But, I believe God designed them uniquely for a nurturing role.
Our career is often a place where we can serve others. Yes, many are very self-serving in their jobs, but, it doesn't have to be so. Whatever we do -- unless illegal, immoral or unethical -- can be done in a way that others benefit.
If a person is unhappy with what they are doing, it is likely that there is something about their reason for doing it that is not right. I suppose that some belief systems might refer to it as being in harmony with ourselves. I think that it is a result of either not being in the job that you are made for or doing the job for the wrong reason. Which brings us to attitude.
If our attitude is one of service to others, any job can take on a completely different complexion. If we are sweeping floors and cleaning toilets, it can be with the attitude that I am providing a clean environment for others and therefore making their lives better. However, if it is just for the paycheck, I will likely feel that it is a demeaning job.
I believe that God designed each of us with a purpose. We are shaped by Him to serve others. If we find what it is that He has designed us to do and pursue it with all of our heart in service to Him and to our fellow man, we will find joy and happiness in our life. And, we will be successful.
I think that it was Sam Walton who said something to the effect that, "Success is achieved by serving others. The greater the service, the greater the success." -- and if he didn't say it, my apologies, he should have!
Psalm 139:13-16
13 For you created my inmost being;
you knit me together in my mother's womb.
14 I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
your works are wonderful,
I know that full well.
15 My frame was not hidden from you
when I was made in the secret place.
When I was woven together in the depths of the earth,
16 your eyes saw my unformed body.
All the days ordained for me
were written in your book
before one of them came to be.
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
Getting It Together
You would think that after all of these years of writing I could get my act together. I have things that I have written in about a "jillion" locations -- and nothing organized. I have files of research that I would have to hunt half-a-day to find and then by the time that I found it, I would have forgotten why I was looking for it in the first place!
I've had a number of articles published through the years and many more that should/could have been. It seems strange that I don't recall ever having one turned down for publication. It could be because I'm picky about what I submit.
I've never written for the money, I write because I feel compelled to do so. But, I have been paid for things that I have written. Occasionally, pretty good money. So, I ask myself, "Why don't I write more?"
That's a tough question to answer. I guess it's because I've never depended on it for a living. I've never had to write (except of course in school). I've always supported myself in other ways.
I am working on a novel -- well, that could be a bit misleading. It would be more accurate to say that I occasionally write a few pages in a novel that I've been working on for years. I have about five chapters completed -- OK, that's probably not accurate either -- I have five chapters that will probably go through multiple revisions before I am satisfied with them. I even have the outline of the complete story worked out in my head. Sometimes, I think, that's the hardest thing -- a good outline. If you don't know where you're going, how can you get there?
Back to my original thought -- I have files upon files, in multiple boxes, of things that I have written. Everything from poetry and music to short stories and journals. I think this is blog post number 545 on this blog and for awhile I maintained two other blogs. So, why don't I do something more with my writing besides just accumulating it for posterity? If you know the answer, please share it with me! In the meantime, I will relieve the compulsion to write with blog posts such as this.
I've had a number of articles published through the years and many more that should/could have been. It seems strange that I don't recall ever having one turned down for publication. It could be because I'm picky about what I submit.
I've never written for the money, I write because I feel compelled to do so. But, I have been paid for things that I have written. Occasionally, pretty good money. So, I ask myself, "Why don't I write more?"
That's a tough question to answer. I guess it's because I've never depended on it for a living. I've never had to write (except of course in school). I've always supported myself in other ways.
I am working on a novel -- well, that could be a bit misleading. It would be more accurate to say that I occasionally write a few pages in a novel that I've been working on for years. I have about five chapters completed -- OK, that's probably not accurate either -- I have five chapters that will probably go through multiple revisions before I am satisfied with them. I even have the outline of the complete story worked out in my head. Sometimes, I think, that's the hardest thing -- a good outline. If you don't know where you're going, how can you get there?
Back to my original thought -- I have files upon files, in multiple boxes, of things that I have written. Everything from poetry and music to short stories and journals. I think this is blog post number 545 on this blog and for awhile I maintained two other blogs. So, why don't I do something more with my writing besides just accumulating it for posterity? If you know the answer, please share it with me! In the meantime, I will relieve the compulsion to write with blog posts such as this.
Monday, July 5, 2010
Backlog
One of the things that I face after a long bout of travel is to deal with the things that seem to accumulate on my desk while I am gone. I handle most of the crucial business tasks from the road but, there are some items that end up in various piles on my desk that require my attention when I can.
One of those items is to go through the seemingly endless pile of trade publications for items of interest. I suppose that I could leave this task for someone else, but I've found that I pick out things that others deem irrelevant. It isn't that my eye is any better or worse than theirs, it's just that I have things in mind that items occasionally fit that aren't obviously related to my job. One thing that might fall into this category is things that illustrate points that I want to emphasize in a presentation. They don't have to be directly related to the specific subject -- just good illustrations of a point.
Some of the other things for which I look when scanning the publications are 1) articles directly related to my business, 2) articles written by others in my business, 3) articles written by or about friends, 4) advertisements related to our business, 5) advertisements of competitors (mere pretenders), or 6) items referring to customers or prospective customers. Hmmm....that doesn't leave much.
I sometimes will cut articles out of the publications and put them into 3-ring binders. This is primarily reserved for articles specifically related to our business -- especially research. Occasionally I will scan a particular article and e-mail it to others. I sometimes will cut out an ad from a competitor and place it in a file. I will visually scan or sometimes read thoroughly, any articles about customers or prospects.
It doesn't seem like a big deal until you consider how quickly the publications pile up. I faced an eight-inch stack this morning. It took about one hour to get through them. That included all of the activities in the previous paragraph.
The key is to handle them once, then "chunk" them. Don't put them aside for later; deal with them now (although now sometimes gets delayed). If you have to pick them up more than once you are wasting time. I don't know about you, but I never seem to have enough of that!
One of those items is to go through the seemingly endless pile of trade publications for items of interest. I suppose that I could leave this task for someone else, but I've found that I pick out things that others deem irrelevant. It isn't that my eye is any better or worse than theirs, it's just that I have things in mind that items occasionally fit that aren't obviously related to my job. One thing that might fall into this category is things that illustrate points that I want to emphasize in a presentation. They don't have to be directly related to the specific subject -- just good illustrations of a point.
Some of the other things for which I look when scanning the publications are 1) articles directly related to my business, 2) articles written by others in my business, 3) articles written by or about friends, 4) advertisements related to our business, 5) advertisements of competitors (mere pretenders), or 6) items referring to customers or prospective customers. Hmmm....that doesn't leave much.
I sometimes will cut articles out of the publications and put them into 3-ring binders. This is primarily reserved for articles specifically related to our business -- especially research. Occasionally I will scan a particular article and e-mail it to others. I sometimes will cut out an ad from a competitor and place it in a file. I will visually scan or sometimes read thoroughly, any articles about customers or prospects.
It doesn't seem like a big deal until you consider how quickly the publications pile up. I faced an eight-inch stack this morning. It took about one hour to get through them. That included all of the activities in the previous paragraph.
The key is to handle them once, then "chunk" them. Don't put them aside for later; deal with them now (although now sometimes gets delayed). If you have to pick them up more than once you are wasting time. I don't know about you, but I never seem to have enough of that!
Saturday, July 3, 2010
The Drinking Gene
If you’ve got any “westering” blood in you, you probably also carry the “drinking gene.” Just think about it. Why would men leave the cozy safety of fireside and feminine company for the wilds of the unsettled if they didn’t have something that drove them to it?
You might respond that they were looking for opportunity. Well, that’s all and good except there’s opportunity about everywhere one looks. It’s just a matter of hard work and stick-to-it-ness that turns anything into success.
I suspect many a lazy drunk headed west because his wife drove him to it. Can’t you just hear the conversation?
Her: “Get your lazy rear up and get to work. You won’t never accomplish anything settin’ there with that jug!”
Him: “Ain’t nothing here to accomplish! All the good land is already taken and so are all the good jobs.”
Her: “We got land that could be cleared, wood that needs cuttin’, huntin’ to do and hogs that need butchered and here you sit, sippin’ from a jug and complainin’. All it takes is some industry to turn it into a pretty good livin’!”
A few days go by during which he makes a trip to town where he and his buddies share a jug and a little conversation. They hear tales about the glorious west with furs for the taking, gold for the plucking and land that stretches clear to the horizon. So, filled with liquid courage, our good man goes back to his young bride and says, “You’re right honey, you deserve the good life. I’m gonna head west and make us a fortune and then send for you to come out and join me.
She responds, “You just do that. It can’t be any worse than what I’ve already got. I already do most of the work around here. Don’t come back ‘til you’ve made your fortune.”
That was one scenario. Here is another.
Lewis and Clark are putting together an expedition to map the Louisiana Purchase. They scratch their heads in perplexity at the daunting task of finding a group of men to go with them. They realize they will face hardships and hostile Indians. They know that many of them won’t return. Finally one looks to the other (I’ve no idea which) and says, “Jefferson gave me a good bit of money to get this expedition going, why don’t we head down to the waterfront to one of those bars and see if we can make us a few friends. We’ll get ‘em drunk and then get ‘em to sign on. We need lots of booze because we may have to keep ‘em drunk ‘til we’re half way there. It will need to be far enough out that they will be safer sticking with us than heading back on their own.”
So, they went to the bar and ordered drinks for everyone. Then they issued a challenge: “I’ll bet there ain’t a one of you sorry cases that’s tough enough to join us on a little expedition out west. We only want the meanest, toughest, orneriest types to go with us. We’ll cross some of the wildest lands and fight some of the deadliest Indians on the continent until we get all the way to the Pacific Ocean and I’ll bet there ain’t a one of you that can handle the trip!”
Well, you know that courage pours out of those bottles right along with the colored liquid they contain. Nearly every man in the joint took offense at the challenge and signed on immediately along with belittling and bullying any laggards into doing the same. It only took one stop to fill the quota of men needed and the expedition was ready to go. It only needed two wagons of rotgut booze to make it to the Mississippi and another boatload to start west.
Or, let’s try another scenario.
This one occurs in the Deep South in the early 1800’s after a round of drinking that impaired the judgment of the participants.
“You have impugned my honor for the last time, sir. I challenge you to a duel at 30 paces!”
After the challenger and the challenged have raised their level of courage to a point sufficient to the event by sipping from the little brown jug, they meet at the appointed time and place. Such events were generally considered outside the law even in those perilous times, yet they occurred nonetheless. The trouble was, often the victor became outside the law but was in a better position than the loser who was perhaps, dead. Hence, the victor often traveled west where his past could easily disappear into, well, the past, and no questions were asked.
So, you see, many of the ancestors of us folks out west had a little of the “drinking gene” that drove them beyond the borders of civilization and into the wilds. It makes you wonder if the West would ever have been settled without the little brown jug.
[The idea for this brief piece came from the 1927 book, “Trails Plowed Under” by Charles M. Russell.]
[Since this was published I came across the following linked article: Genes Influence Your Response to Others' Drinking Habits -- hmmmmm......]
You might respond that they were looking for opportunity. Well, that’s all and good except there’s opportunity about everywhere one looks. It’s just a matter of hard work and stick-to-it-ness that turns anything into success.
I suspect many a lazy drunk headed west because his wife drove him to it. Can’t you just hear the conversation?
Her: “Get your lazy rear up and get to work. You won’t never accomplish anything settin’ there with that jug!”
Him: “Ain’t nothing here to accomplish! All the good land is already taken and so are all the good jobs.”
Her: “We got land that could be cleared, wood that needs cuttin’, huntin’ to do and hogs that need butchered and here you sit, sippin’ from a jug and complainin’. All it takes is some industry to turn it into a pretty good livin’!”
A few days go by during which he makes a trip to town where he and his buddies share a jug and a little conversation. They hear tales about the glorious west with furs for the taking, gold for the plucking and land that stretches clear to the horizon. So, filled with liquid courage, our good man goes back to his young bride and says, “You’re right honey, you deserve the good life. I’m gonna head west and make us a fortune and then send for you to come out and join me.
She responds, “You just do that. It can’t be any worse than what I’ve already got. I already do most of the work around here. Don’t come back ‘til you’ve made your fortune.”
That was one scenario. Here is another.
Lewis and Clark are putting together an expedition to map the Louisiana Purchase. They scratch their heads in perplexity at the daunting task of finding a group of men to go with them. They realize they will face hardships and hostile Indians. They know that many of them won’t return. Finally one looks to the other (I’ve no idea which) and says, “Jefferson gave me a good bit of money to get this expedition going, why don’t we head down to the waterfront to one of those bars and see if we can make us a few friends. We’ll get ‘em drunk and then get ‘em to sign on. We need lots of booze because we may have to keep ‘em drunk ‘til we’re half way there. It will need to be far enough out that they will be safer sticking with us than heading back on their own.”
So, they went to the bar and ordered drinks for everyone. Then they issued a challenge: “I’ll bet there ain’t a one of you sorry cases that’s tough enough to join us on a little expedition out west. We only want the meanest, toughest, orneriest types to go with us. We’ll cross some of the wildest lands and fight some of the deadliest Indians on the continent until we get all the way to the Pacific Ocean and I’ll bet there ain’t a one of you that can handle the trip!”
Well, you know that courage pours out of those bottles right along with the colored liquid they contain. Nearly every man in the joint took offense at the challenge and signed on immediately along with belittling and bullying any laggards into doing the same. It only took one stop to fill the quota of men needed and the expedition was ready to go. It only needed two wagons of rotgut booze to make it to the Mississippi and another boatload to start west.
Or, let’s try another scenario.
This one occurs in the Deep South in the early 1800’s after a round of drinking that impaired the judgment of the participants.
“You have impugned my honor for the last time, sir. I challenge you to a duel at 30 paces!”
After the challenger and the challenged have raised their level of courage to a point sufficient to the event by sipping from the little brown jug, they meet at the appointed time and place. Such events were generally considered outside the law even in those perilous times, yet they occurred nonetheless. The trouble was, often the victor became outside the law but was in a better position than the loser who was perhaps, dead. Hence, the victor often traveled west where his past could easily disappear into, well, the past, and no questions were asked.
So, you see, many of the ancestors of us folks out west had a little of the “drinking gene” that drove them beyond the borders of civilization and into the wilds. It makes you wonder if the West would ever have been settled without the little brown jug.
[The idea for this brief piece came from the 1927 book, “Trails Plowed Under” by Charles M. Russell.]
[Since this was published I came across the following linked article: Genes Influence Your Response to Others' Drinking Habits -- hmmmmm......]
Saturday, June 26, 2010
Putting Your Money Where Your Mouth Is
We frequently hear celebrities on the "bandwagon" about some cause or the other. They typically are poorly informed about their subject but believe themselves to be experts. The article linked below is an exception.
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ynews/ynews_ts2851
I appreciate the fact that Costner put up $21 million of his own money to develop the system. I wish him well as it is deployed. It is a worthy use of some of that box-office cash he has raked in.
Now, if we could just get a few more of them investing their money intelligently instead of putting it in the hands of a bunch of lawyers under the guise of a benevolent charity such as HSUS (which is probably the worst wolf in sheep's clothing out there in my opinion). They play on the heartstrings of gullible people with their appeal for money using images of pitiful dogs and cats that have been mistreated. Less than 1% of their $100 million warchest has been spent on rescue efforts. In fact, their stated goal is to eliminate animal agriculture in the United States. They use deceptive practices to raise that money. It mostly goes to advertising, lobbyists and for huge salaries for a handful of individuals.
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ynews/ynews_ts2851
I appreciate the fact that Costner put up $21 million of his own money to develop the system. I wish him well as it is deployed. It is a worthy use of some of that box-office cash he has raked in.
Now, if we could just get a few more of them investing their money intelligently instead of putting it in the hands of a bunch of lawyers under the guise of a benevolent charity such as HSUS (which is probably the worst wolf in sheep's clothing out there in my opinion). They play on the heartstrings of gullible people with their appeal for money using images of pitiful dogs and cats that have been mistreated. Less than 1% of their $100 million warchest has been spent on rescue efforts. In fact, their stated goal is to eliminate animal agriculture in the United States. They use deceptive practices to raise that money. It mostly goes to advertising, lobbyists and for huge salaries for a handful of individuals.
Thursday, June 3, 2010
A Difference in Viewpoints
"Democracy and socialism have nothing in common but one word, equality. But notice the difference: while democracy seeks equality in liberty, socialism seeks equality in restraint and servitude." __ Alexis de Tocqueville
Therein lies the difference between Democrats and Republicans of today.
Therein lies the difference between Democrats and Republicans of today.
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
Craving Relevance
Blogging is often an expression of one's desire for relevance -- to be heard -- to believe that one's opinion has value. It can be a record of events in one's life that says, "I was here!" It can be an expression of views on politics, religion or other subjects that says, "Look at me, I have something to say!"
Everyone wants to have "followers" of their blog. Otherwise, all blogs would be set to private. That is also an indicator that bloggers want others to see their opinion.
Bloggers like to respond to comments. Instead of meaningful dialogue with one's friends -- or, perhaps it is not meaningful dialogue with one's friends -- the commentary dialgue on a blog offers a degree of anonymity that allows the expression of opinions that might not otherwise be voiced for fear that others would look down on one's views. Maybe that is why so few truly engage in meaningful dialogue on a face-to-face basis. Comments also allow the freedom to be rude, mean or denigrating to other commentors -- at least within the "rules" allowed by each individual blog owner. Venting is a therapeutic release, I suppose.
Why is there such a craving for relevance? -- to be noticed? -- to believe that one's thoughts and opinions have value? Is it part of the survival mechanism of our species? Sounds a bit anti-survival to me. After all, it is the one out front waving the flag that tends to get shot first. For most species survival means blending into the background and not being seen -- except during courtship.
Are we courting others? Seeking followers? Why are so many people uncomfortable as part of the "herd"? There is safety in the herd. Yet, we risk exposure by allowing ourselves to become vulnerable to others through what we write in our blogs.
It reminds me of a little child who craves the attention of a parent. "Look at me!" is the cry -- just before the bicycle crashes and the knee is skinned. Is it a remnant of the infant's need for care because it is helpless to care for itself?
Just suppose that the craving for relevance is part of our design. Suppose that our physical life is in fact a period of gestation for our spirit. We crave relevance because we are made for a purpose. If we don't know our purpose, we are programmed to seek it.
Only through God is our purpose revealed. Until we seek Him we cannot find the purpose for which he made us. Without Him we continually seek and strive for "success" or "recognition" that says, "I'm relevant." What we truly need is to realize that we ARE relevant to God. He has called us to Himself. He justified us through His sacrifice. He gives us purpose when we submit to Him.
"For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life." __ John 3:16
Everyone wants to have "followers" of their blog. Otherwise, all blogs would be set to private. That is also an indicator that bloggers want others to see their opinion.
Bloggers like to respond to comments. Instead of meaningful dialogue with one's friends -- or, perhaps it is not meaningful dialogue with one's friends -- the commentary dialgue on a blog offers a degree of anonymity that allows the expression of opinions that might not otherwise be voiced for fear that others would look down on one's views. Maybe that is why so few truly engage in meaningful dialogue on a face-to-face basis. Comments also allow the freedom to be rude, mean or denigrating to other commentors -- at least within the "rules" allowed by each individual blog owner. Venting is a therapeutic release, I suppose.
Why is there such a craving for relevance? -- to be noticed? -- to believe that one's thoughts and opinions have value? Is it part of the survival mechanism of our species? Sounds a bit anti-survival to me. After all, it is the one out front waving the flag that tends to get shot first. For most species survival means blending into the background and not being seen -- except during courtship.
Are we courting others? Seeking followers? Why are so many people uncomfortable as part of the "herd"? There is safety in the herd. Yet, we risk exposure by allowing ourselves to become vulnerable to others through what we write in our blogs.
It reminds me of a little child who craves the attention of a parent. "Look at me!" is the cry -- just before the bicycle crashes and the knee is skinned. Is it a remnant of the infant's need for care because it is helpless to care for itself?
Just suppose that the craving for relevance is part of our design. Suppose that our physical life is in fact a period of gestation for our spirit. We crave relevance because we are made for a purpose. If we don't know our purpose, we are programmed to seek it.
Only through God is our purpose revealed. Until we seek Him we cannot find the purpose for which he made us. Without Him we continually seek and strive for "success" or "recognition" that says, "I'm relevant." What we truly need is to realize that we ARE relevant to God. He has called us to Himself. He justified us through His sacrifice. He gives us purpose when we submit to Him.
"For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life." __ John 3:16
Monday, May 17, 2010
Queen of the Missions
The Mission San Jose y San Miguel de Aguayo is considered the "Queen of Missions" and was the second of the missions founded in what grew to become San Antonio, Texas. On our recent trip to San Antonio we spent some time touring the mission complex.
Once we entered the gate I turned around a took this photo from the inside. Notice the platform and gun ports above the gate.
In the first photo you should have noticed the round structure to the right. The photo above is the inside of that building. Note the cannon ports as well as the gun port at the top. A platform at slightly higher than head height encircled the room giving the guards a place to stand from which to fire through the ports. This mission was more than just a church. It was a fortified city able to resist attack by Comanche and other tribes.
The above view is from the gate, looking toward the church. In the foreground you see the foundation of another structure -- possibly officers quarters for the troops stationed at the mission.
The interior of the walls was actually a continuous series of apartments that housed the Indians (native Americans if you prefer) that had been converted to the Catholic faith. In many ways, these Indians were slaves in service of the church -- tending fields, digging the system of acequias, and providing labor for other tasks as needed. There were also compartments used for storing arms and ammunition and store rooms of other sorts. Note the oven for baking.
As we approached the church complex we began to realize the size of the structure. Again, note the oven on the right and the foundation of another building ahead.
This is another view of the church complex. The mission was constructed over a period between 1768 and 1782 using the labor of the Indian converts.
Most people would call this yucca -- I grew up calling it Bear Grass. Yucca is generally a broader leaf. The showy blooms on these caught my eye.
I like the arches. The contrast beween the greenery and the stone of the ancient structure emphasizes the "Old World" look of the church and attached buildings.
The different layers of this perspective were interesting to me. Note that there are three rows of arches.
This was a rare moment that the walk beneath the arches had no people in it.
Water is always a necessity. There were a couple of wells within the property as well as the acequia flowing just to the rear of the church complex. An acequia is an irrigation canal. If the inhabitants of the fortified city were cut off from the San Antonio River and irrigation canals, they would always have a supply of water at hand within the walls.
Behind the church complex were the Friars quarters and beyond them, a flour mill. The mill you see in the photo was probably the most intriguing part of the mission complex to me. What you see is a guess as to the way the original mill appeared. This is a restoration that was done in the 1930's. The grindstone is a monolithic block of chert. The short post on the left supported a beam beneath the floor which in turn supported the water wheel and grindstone mechanism. The wedges driven through the slot in the post were used to adjust the tolerance of the grindstone by slightly raising or lowering the mechanism below the floor. The taller post was a crane that could be pivoted and used to lift the stone for cleaning or replacement.
This mill could produce about 50 lbs. of flour per hour -- more than enough to supply the approximately 300 residents. The wheat was poured into the hopper at the top and the flour caught in a bucket. This mill house has a stone floor. It is more likely that the floor was made of wood so that in the event the grindstone was dropped it wouldn't break. Such stones were prized possessions and difficult to come by -- likely being imported from France.
The wooden arm protruding through the window controlled the water flow by raising and lowering a gate. The water fell approximately 9 feet to turn a horizontal waterwheel attached to the shaft which in turn rotated the grindstone.
Above is a photo of the church and you can just make out the Friars Quarters on the left edge of the photo.
Stonework above the entry to the church.
The Madonna and Child.
Friday, May 14, 2010
Mission Concepcion, San Antonio, Texas
The Mission Concepcion in San Antonio, Texas, was another stop on our recent travels. Established in 1716, it was re-located to its present site in 1731 and is the oldest un-restored church in America. The mission is located at 807 Mission Road. At its height, around 1762, the mission boasted a population of 207 and had seen 792 baptisms. It had ceased to exist as an independent mission by the end of the century.
Mission Concepcion
The ruined area to the right contained the living quarters of the Franciscans.
I'm always facinated by arches which were critical to the strength and stability of the structure. It's too bad the park service finds it necessary to place modern benches and garbage containers in the structure.
The orginal paintings on the interior are very interesting. Note the steel supporting rod at the top of the photo -- not original equipment.
The church continues to be used today. It is interesting to see the contrast between the modern greenery and rug and the painting on the plastered walls.
The seating is very old although not, I'm sure, as old as the structure itself. Note again the arched ceiling necessary for strength. The dome that can be seen in the first photo covers the altar area at the front of the chapel that you see in this photo.
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
Enchanted Rock
This past weekend my wife and I took a brief trip to Central Texas. We just needed to "get away" for a few days. We left home with no specific plans but did have a general idea of the various "opportunities" in the area where we were headed.
One of the places we visited was Enchanted Rock State Park. I have included a few photos.
Enchanted Rock is one of the largest batholiths in the United States. A batholith is an underground rock formation that has been uncovered by erosion. It consists of the distinctive pink granite which is the same used to build the Texas state capitol building.
The rock rises 425 feet above ground and covers approximately 640 acres. The view from the top is outstanding.
If you click on the picture it should open in a larger size so that you can get an idea of the view. The photo above includes an interesting feature of the dome. There were a number of places where enough soil had collected in "low" spots on the batholith that plants have become established. There is enough rainfall (about 28 inches per year) to maintain the plants. This was a thicket of dewberries. You can see the berries in the photo below.
Enchanted Rock is located a few miles north of Fredericksburg, Texas. It, like many other batholiths throughout the world, was considered sacred by some. The Tonkawa tribes believed that it was the home of various spirits. This was likely due to the flickering lights that they claimed to see dancing on the giant dome of granite. There are many legends about the rock.
The first well-documented exploration of the area was in 1723 when the Spanish sent parties to the area northwest of San Antonio for the purpose of establishing missions in the Apacheria. Although the area that was to become San Antonio had been explored at least as early as 1691, the city was not established until 1718. It quickly became the heart of Spanish Texas.
Many areas of Enchanted Rock are enjoyed by rock climbers. We observed a number of individuals rappelling on the west face. Following the trail, the hike to the top doesn't take long and is a fairly smooth walk. It will give you a workout if you aren't used to climbing.
Saturday, May 1, 2010
Insolent Weakness
"Insolence is the armor of the weak. It is a device to induce courage in the face of one's own panic." __ Henry Kissinger
When I first read the above statement it caught my attention. It was spoken by Henry Kissinger during the period in which he was attempting to negotiate an honorable settlement to the Vietnam war. Nguyen Van Thieu, Chief-of-State of South Vietnam, became insolent toward both Kissinger and President Richard Nixon in the weeks prior to the 1971 Presidential election when he felt he was being forced to accept a settlement with North Vietnam that left Communist forces within the borders of the South. He was in a powerless position and yet used the U.S. election as a lever against giving in to the terms of the agreement which had been negotiated bilaterally between the U.S. and the North Vietnamese in the Paris talks. He saw that Nixon was vulnerable to opposing Presidential candidate George McGovern's "peace-at-any-cost" position in the election.
Upon reflection, I saw that the statement was applicable beyond the context in which it was spoken. My first thought is that it sometimes applies to teenagers -- especially those who are attempting to flex their "independence muscles" and are rebellious to their parents. They fear leaving the nest and yet feel instinctually driven to do so. They become belligerent toward first one parent and then the other. In a two-parent household there is usually at least one parent that retains some level of communication with the teen. In a single-parent household the result is often disaster for the teen and the already broken family.
I have also seen the quote to be an accurate description of situations encountered in business. It is usually manifest in posturing within a company meeting -- perhaps a planning group or committee. It is an attempt to overcome powerlessness and inadequacy with a bluff. When one is in a true position of strength there is no need for the bluster. It is frequently the quiet one in the room that holds the power.
Insolence appears to be just another expression of insecurity. When one is confident in one's place in the world there is no need to either lash out at others or to attempt to dominate them -- either physically or in conversation. Such confidence can only come from the security of a relationship with Jesus. Through His power we can experience a quiet peace that comes from His Spirit within us. In Him alone is our strength and confidence.
"I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength." __ Phillipians 4:13
When I first read the above statement it caught my attention. It was spoken by Henry Kissinger during the period in which he was attempting to negotiate an honorable settlement to the Vietnam war. Nguyen Van Thieu, Chief-of-State of South Vietnam, became insolent toward both Kissinger and President Richard Nixon in the weeks prior to the 1971 Presidential election when he felt he was being forced to accept a settlement with North Vietnam that left Communist forces within the borders of the South. He was in a powerless position and yet used the U.S. election as a lever against giving in to the terms of the agreement which had been negotiated bilaterally between the U.S. and the North Vietnamese in the Paris talks. He saw that Nixon was vulnerable to opposing Presidential candidate George McGovern's "peace-at-any-cost" position in the election.
Upon reflection, I saw that the statement was applicable beyond the context in which it was spoken. My first thought is that it sometimes applies to teenagers -- especially those who are attempting to flex their "independence muscles" and are rebellious to their parents. They fear leaving the nest and yet feel instinctually driven to do so. They become belligerent toward first one parent and then the other. In a two-parent household there is usually at least one parent that retains some level of communication with the teen. In a single-parent household the result is often disaster for the teen and the already broken family.
I have also seen the quote to be an accurate description of situations encountered in business. It is usually manifest in posturing within a company meeting -- perhaps a planning group or committee. It is an attempt to overcome powerlessness and inadequacy with a bluff. When one is in a true position of strength there is no need for the bluster. It is frequently the quiet one in the room that holds the power.
Insolence appears to be just another expression of insecurity. When one is confident in one's place in the world there is no need to either lash out at others or to attempt to dominate them -- either physically or in conversation. Such confidence can only come from the security of a relationship with Jesus. Through His power we can experience a quiet peace that comes from His Spirit within us. In Him alone is our strength and confidence.
"I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength." __ Phillipians 4:13
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Moralistic Therapeutic Deism
I am learning about something new -- yet, not so new. It is the name of something which I have observed among my peers first, and also among other generations -- both older and younger than me. It is called "moralistic therapeutic deism." I suspect it is a prime reason for the observed current decline in the Christian churches of both this country and Europe.
The article linked here is a good place to begin understanding. Then, it should be followed by reading this rather lengthy discussion.
If you regularly attend church, let me ask you the following question: Have you noticed a decline in attendance? If so, to what do you attribute that decline?
If you do not regularly attend a church, my question is this: Why?
Please feel free to answer the questions in the comments.
The article linked here is a good place to begin understanding. Then, it should be followed by reading this rather lengthy discussion.
If you regularly attend church, let me ask you the following question: Have you noticed a decline in attendance? If so, to what do you attribute that decline?
If you do not regularly attend a church, my question is this: Why?
Please feel free to answer the questions in the comments.
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Mission: Backyards and Haiti
My friend Matt is going to Haiti this summer. His life will be changed by his service to the Haitian people. He told me that I inspired him to go. I am humbled. I am praying even now for him and the other men from his church that they will touch lives, that the people there will be prepared for their coming and that their own lives will be transformed by the trip.
I just completed the book "The Radical Reformission: Reaching Out without Selling Out
"
by Mark Driscoll. It talks about the mission in our own backyard and how we are called to reach our neighbors with the message that Jesus is the only way to life. The book talks about how we must reach people where they are -- not expect them to come to us. We must seek them out, just as Jesus did. We must share their life, their pain, their struggles and their fears. We need to show them that the Bible holds the answers to their life questions. But, it also addresses the fact that we must confront them with the truth -- in a loving way.
Life is messy. Christians are imperfect. Only Jesus can cure our imperfections and reach into our messy lives and show us something better.Too often we allow our imperfections to get in the way of our sharing the truth. We show non-Christians a false front with false expectations. We fail to confront humanity with our own human frailty.
Jesus didn't shy away from those who were struggling with life's issues. Instead, he sought them out where they lived. He ate and drank with them. He crossed cultural and racial barriers without hesitation. He touched the untouchable.
We see in Jesus a willingness to confront the wealthy, the political and church leaders, the thieves and the liars with the truth. He did so with the goal of showing them the way to life. He didn't hide within the confines of his comfortable existence with those "like" him -- instead, he went to people of all stations.
In his book, Driscoll points to Jesus as the example we should follow. He doesn't point to the church -- but to Jesus. I highly recommend the book for anyone serious about the Christian faith.
Matt, I pray for you as you prepare to face the messiness that is Haiti. Hold fast my friend.
"Then Jesus came to them and said, 'All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, even to the end of the age.'" __ Matthew 28:18-20
I just completed the book "The Radical Reformission: Reaching Out without Selling Out
"by Mark Driscoll. It talks about the mission in our own backyard and how we are called to reach our neighbors with the message that Jesus is the only way to life. The book talks about how we must reach people where they are -- not expect them to come to us. We must seek them out, just as Jesus did. We must share their life, their pain, their struggles and their fears. We need to show them that the Bible holds the answers to their life questions. But, it also addresses the fact that we must confront them with the truth -- in a loving way.
Life is messy. Christians are imperfect. Only Jesus can cure our imperfections and reach into our messy lives and show us something better.Too often we allow our imperfections to get in the way of our sharing the truth. We show non-Christians a false front with false expectations. We fail to confront humanity with our own human frailty.
Jesus didn't shy away from those who were struggling with life's issues. Instead, he sought them out where they lived. He ate and drank with them. He crossed cultural and racial barriers without hesitation. He touched the untouchable.
We see in Jesus a willingness to confront the wealthy, the political and church leaders, the thieves and the liars with the truth. He did so with the goal of showing them the way to life. He didn't hide within the confines of his comfortable existence with those "like" him -- instead, he went to people of all stations.
In his book, Driscoll points to Jesus as the example we should follow. He doesn't point to the church -- but to Jesus. I highly recommend the book for anyone serious about the Christian faith.
Matt, I pray for you as you prepare to face the messiness that is Haiti. Hold fast my friend.
"Then Jesus came to them and said, 'All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, even to the end of the age.'" __ Matthew 28:18-20
Random Note
It is amazing to me sometimes to suddenly realize how quickly time is flying by. This blog reminds me frequently because of the amount of time that passes between posts. I might think that I "just" posted something only to realize that it has been several days -- or weeks -- since the last post.
I am in Kentucky this week. It is beautiful and green and a bit cooler than I expected. I packed short-sleeved shirts.....
I know that I should post something profound but that is beyond me. Instead, I'll post a link from USA Today.
http://www.usatoday.com/news/religion/2010-04-27-1Amillfaith27_ST_N.htm
I am in Kentucky this week. It is beautiful and green and a bit cooler than I expected. I packed short-sleeved shirts.....
I know that I should post something profound but that is beyond me. Instead, I'll post a link from USA Today.
http://www.usatoday.com/news/religion/2010-04-27-1Amillfaith27_ST_N.htm
Friday, April 23, 2010
Techno-dependency
I have become outrageously dependent on my Blackberry. It is my mobile office. That has become painfully clear to me because the e-mail has not been feeding to it correctly this week. I don't know if it is a problem with the local cell provider or something bigger -- like a problem at ATT.
Normally, I am "buzzed" throughout the day by a steady stream of electronic communications hitting my Blackberry which is perpetually in "vibrate" mode. Some of them are newsletters and things of that nature, but many of them are e-mails that keep me informed about what is going on within the company that I manage. Yes, I use my Blackberry as a key piece of my management communications.
I get brief e-mails from personnel making sales calls, or if something out of the ordinary occurs at one of our seven locations. I also receive frequent e-mails from key suppliers about various things going on in the industry. I sometimes am involved in groups putting together meetings or other functions where coordinated activity results in frequent e-mail communication. At certain times each day, I receive reports from each of our locations which let me know their activity for the day.
All of those things are important but, there is one that to me is critical. I receive e-mails from many customers that expect rapid responses. I'm not getting those in a timely fashion and therefore can't respond as quickly as I should. To me, one of the keys to the success of our business is exceptional customer service. When I don't get those e-mails almost immediately, I can't deliver the kind of service that they have come to expect.
Fortunately, I still carry a laptop. I spent a good deal of time last night dealing with e-mail which normally I would have handled through the day.
I suspect this dependence on technology is not such a good thing but, it does make me more efficient when it is working!
Normally, I am "buzzed" throughout the day by a steady stream of electronic communications hitting my Blackberry which is perpetually in "vibrate" mode. Some of them are newsletters and things of that nature, but many of them are e-mails that keep me informed about what is going on within the company that I manage. Yes, I use my Blackberry as a key piece of my management communications.
I get brief e-mails from personnel making sales calls, or if something out of the ordinary occurs at one of our seven locations. I also receive frequent e-mails from key suppliers about various things going on in the industry. I sometimes am involved in groups putting together meetings or other functions where coordinated activity results in frequent e-mail communication. At certain times each day, I receive reports from each of our locations which let me know their activity for the day.
All of those things are important but, there is one that to me is critical. I receive e-mails from many customers that expect rapid responses. I'm not getting those in a timely fashion and therefore can't respond as quickly as I should. To me, one of the keys to the success of our business is exceptional customer service. When I don't get those e-mails almost immediately, I can't deliver the kind of service that they have come to expect.
Fortunately, I still carry a laptop. I spent a good deal of time last night dealing with e-mail which normally I would have handled through the day.
I suspect this dependence on technology is not such a good thing but, it does make me more efficient when it is working!
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
On the Eve of Muster
"Give me an army of West Point graduates and I'll win a battle. Give me a handful of Texas Aggies, and I'll win the war." - U.S. General George S. Patton
Sunday, April 18, 2010
Two If By Sea
Two hundred and thirty-five years ago Paul Revere made his famous midnight ride. On this night in 1775 the British army had begun to move across the Charles River toward Lexington. John Pulling held two lanterns aloft momentarily from the steeple of the Old North Church to let the Sons of Liberty in Lexington know that the British were crossing the river rather than taking the long way around by land. The next morning, on the 19th of April, the battle of Concord was fought, signaling open hostilities in the war that would eventually result in the establishment of a new country on the North American continent. That new country was founded on principles of individual liberty and limited government.
Today, we see an increasingly controlling government and the gradual erosion of individual liberty in that very same country. The idea that one might achieve a level of happiness through personal pursuits of industry and innovation has been replaced to a large extent by one of dependency on the federal government for daily provision. The enemy is no longer a power based on shores geographically removed, but is instead housed in halls philosophically removed by a much greater distance from the founding principles of this nation than were the halls of Parliament from the colonies.
The results of the Revolutionary War left our nation independent yet, divided in ways not dissimilar to what we see today. At the time of the founding of our country, the divide was between those who would see a strong, centralized government and those who would prefer decentralization, with power concentrated locally or in the states. The divide continued to grow until it ruptured in a civil war.
Perhaps our system of government can avoid a similar rupture from the current philisophical division in our country. The system works best when the citizens become involved.
Today, we see an increasingly controlling government and the gradual erosion of individual liberty in that very same country. The idea that one might achieve a level of happiness through personal pursuits of industry and innovation has been replaced to a large extent by one of dependency on the federal government for daily provision. The enemy is no longer a power based on shores geographically removed, but is instead housed in halls philosophically removed by a much greater distance from the founding principles of this nation than were the halls of Parliament from the colonies.
The results of the Revolutionary War left our nation independent yet, divided in ways not dissimilar to what we see today. At the time of the founding of our country, the divide was between those who would see a strong, centralized government and those who would prefer decentralization, with power concentrated locally or in the states. The divide continued to grow until it ruptured in a civil war.
Perhaps our system of government can avoid a similar rupture from the current philisophical division in our country. The system works best when the citizens become involved.
Friday, April 16, 2010
A Fearful Disposition
“Not everything that is plausible is true, for those who put forward plans for action have a psychological disposition to marshal the facts that support their position.” __ Henry Kissinger
I would add that we each have a psychological disposition to a particular “worldview” or “yardstick” by which we evaluate input. Each of us lives within a “point-of-view” shaped by our location, history, experiences, friends and family. It is difficult to truly see the “point-of-view” of another individual. We each have been shaped uniquely. That individuality is a key point of the concept of self.
This uniqueness of “worldview” presents the greatest difficulty between individuals greatly removed in each of the key shaping factors. The greater the difference in those shaping factors, the more difficult it is to find understanding.
Mr. Kissinger’s remark was made in reference to foreign policy arguments during the Nixon administration. I find particularly interesting his reference to the marshalling of facts to support a particular position. What makes this interesting to me is that when dealing with different “worldviews” we must consider that each accepts some things as “fact” that the other views as fallacy.
If we consider that some view it acceptable to lie in order to advance one’s own position, we enter into a world in which there is nothing that can be accepted at face value. We each must “prove” the “facts” offered. We also must weigh them against our personal self-interest and the “facts” that we can muster in support. The result is a world in which we can trust nothing and no one.
Is the lack of trust important? Yes, it is. Without trust there is only fear.
I would add that we each have a psychological disposition to a particular “worldview” or “yardstick” by which we evaluate input. Each of us lives within a “point-of-view” shaped by our location, history, experiences, friends and family. It is difficult to truly see the “point-of-view” of another individual. We each have been shaped uniquely. That individuality is a key point of the concept of self.
This uniqueness of “worldview” presents the greatest difficulty between individuals greatly removed in each of the key shaping factors. The greater the difference in those shaping factors, the more difficult it is to find understanding.
Mr. Kissinger’s remark was made in reference to foreign policy arguments during the Nixon administration. I find particularly interesting his reference to the marshalling of facts to support a particular position. What makes this interesting to me is that when dealing with different “worldviews” we must consider that each accepts some things as “fact” that the other views as fallacy.
If we consider that some view it acceptable to lie in order to advance one’s own position, we enter into a world in which there is nothing that can be accepted at face value. We each must “prove” the “facts” offered. We also must weigh them against our personal self-interest and the “facts” that we can muster in support. The result is a world in which we can trust nothing and no one.
Is the lack of trust important? Yes, it is. Without trust there is only fear.
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
Who Is God?
John 3:13-17
No one has ever gone into heaven except the one who came from heaven – the Son of Man. Just as Moses lifted up the snake in the desert, so the Son of Man must be lifted up, that everyone who believes in him may have eternal life.
For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.
So, we must ask, “What is eternal life?”
John 17:1-3
After Jesus said this, he looked toward heaven and prayed:
“Father, the time has come. Glorify your Son, that your Son may glorify you. For you granted him authority over all people that he might give eternal life to all those you have given him. Now this is eternal life: that they may know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent.
Now, we must ask, ”Who is God?”
He is the infinite
The almighty
The everlasting
Omniscient
Omnipotent
Omnipresent
Father of light
Creator
Sustainer
Righteous One
Beginning
End
How can we of finite mind fathom the unfathomable? How can we truly know God? We describe the infinite yet cannot grasp what we define. How can we know the unknowable?
He revealed himself to us in his Son. He reveals himself to us in his word. He makes himself known to us through his actions. He works in our lives by his love. Yet, like the wind, we only see the result of his passing. We see through a glass darkly. Faith must do the rest.
No one has ever gone into heaven except the one who came from heaven – the Son of Man. Just as Moses lifted up the snake in the desert, so the Son of Man must be lifted up, that everyone who believes in him may have eternal life.
For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.
So, we must ask, “What is eternal life?”
John 17:1-3
After Jesus said this, he looked toward heaven and prayed:
“Father, the time has come. Glorify your Son, that your Son may glorify you. For you granted him authority over all people that he might give eternal life to all those you have given him. Now this is eternal life: that they may know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent.
Now, we must ask, ”Who is God?”
He is the infinite
The almighty
The everlasting
Omniscient
Omnipotent
Omnipresent
Father of light
Creator
Sustainer
Righteous One
Beginning
End
How can we of finite mind fathom the unfathomable? How can we truly know God? We describe the infinite yet cannot grasp what we define. How can we know the unknowable?
He revealed himself to us in his Son. He reveals himself to us in his word. He makes himself known to us through his actions. He works in our lives by his love. Yet, like the wind, we only see the result of his passing. We see through a glass darkly. Faith must do the rest.
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Shopping iTunes....
For Christmas I received $30 worth of gift cards to iTunes. I thought -- no big deal. I'll just load 'em up and buy some tunes. I'm still shopping on that $30.
I don't know if it is because I'm too picky or what -- I have spent hours browsing songs and playing the brief snippets available to help you decide if it's what you want -- and I've only used about 1/2 of it up after all this time. Holy Cow! What does that say about my personality?
I like all kinds of music but there is only a small percentage of it that I would consider to be of enduring quality -- something that I want to listen to over and over again. I don't want to just get best sellers, I want some eclectic stuff -- the ones that didn't make the Top 40 but, are still good. I want some of the off-the-wall artists like the ones my daughter comes up with.
Then, after I've worked at it for a couple of hours and only chosen five songs, I wonder what makes it so difficult! Oh, well, at least it generated a blog post.
I don't know if it is because I'm too picky or what -- I have spent hours browsing songs and playing the brief snippets available to help you decide if it's what you want -- and I've only used about 1/2 of it up after all this time. Holy Cow! What does that say about my personality?
I like all kinds of music but there is only a small percentage of it that I would consider to be of enduring quality -- something that I want to listen to over and over again. I don't want to just get best sellers, I want some eclectic stuff -- the ones that didn't make the Top 40 but, are still good. I want some of the off-the-wall artists like the ones my daughter comes up with.
Then, after I've worked at it for a couple of hours and only chosen five songs, I wonder what makes it so difficult! Oh, well, at least it generated a blog post.
Sunday, April 11, 2010
Searching --- Relatively Speaking
Have you noticed the commercial on television about the person who is suffering from search engine overload? About how they talk in snippets of information but their conversations are not cogent? I understand the feeling.
There is an amazing wealth of information available to us on the Internet. Weeding out the trash and finding the gems for which one is searching is a monumental task at times. Just when I think that I've figured it out, I hit one of those frustrating times when I search and search and can't find something that should be readily available.
What, you might ask, prompted such statements? I was searching for the date on which Einstein first introduced his Theory of Special Relativity. The only sources that I am able to find are not especially credible.
Now, the next logical question is, why would I be looking for the date on which Enstein first introduced his Theory of Special Relativity. Well, that was one of those search leads to question leads to search leads to question chain of events that sent me off on a tangent. I guess it really doesn't matter anyway. Perhaps I AM suffering from search engine overload!
There is an amazing wealth of information available to us on the Internet. Weeding out the trash and finding the gems for which one is searching is a monumental task at times. Just when I think that I've figured it out, I hit one of those frustrating times when I search and search and can't find something that should be readily available.
What, you might ask, prompted such statements? I was searching for the date on which Einstein first introduced his Theory of Special Relativity. The only sources that I am able to find are not especially credible.
Now, the next logical question is, why would I be looking for the date on which Enstein first introduced his Theory of Special Relativity. Well, that was one of those search leads to question leads to search leads to question chain of events that sent me off on a tangent. I guess it really doesn't matter anyway. Perhaps I AM suffering from search engine overload!
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
Rough Transition
Spring sprung,
But winter hasn't given up yet.
Blossoms bloomed;
The freeze tonight will turn them brown.
Dust rises
As southern winds bring warmth.
Tumbleweeds roll
As northern winds bring cold.
Seasons change
But none transition smoothly.
People age
Few can do so gracefully.
But winter hasn't given up yet.
Blossoms bloomed;
The freeze tonight will turn them brown.
Dust rises
As southern winds bring warmth.
Tumbleweeds roll
As northern winds bring cold.
Seasons change
But none transition smoothly.
People age
Few can do so gracefully.
Saturday, April 3, 2010
Vegetating
Best of intentions
Don't get it done
Whatever IT happens to be.
I put it off
And make excuses
If it's not important to me.
Like those minor repairs
That seem to pop up
Every week or so
Or those projects I think
Would be really worthwhile
That I just seem to let go.
It makes me wonder
Why Saturday morn
Motivation seems to evaporate
While I just sit back
And accomplish nothing
Except perhaps, vegetate.
Don't get it done
Whatever IT happens to be.
I put it off
And make excuses
If it's not important to me.
Like those minor repairs
That seem to pop up
Every week or so
Or those projects I think
Would be really worthwhile
That I just seem to let go.
It makes me wonder
Why Saturday morn
Motivation seems to evaporate
While I just sit back
And accomplish nothing
Except perhaps, vegetate.
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