OK, so it's been almost 2 months since I've posted anything on here. That says a lot all by itself. My travel schedule has been challenging to say the least.
Since the first of the year I've been to Kentucky, Nebraska, San Antonio, Central Texas, Alabama and now back to Nebraska. Next week is Tennessee. I need a break from it but it doesn't look like one is coming any time soon.
Don't you find the following story hilarious?
Obama to sign order for fiscal commission Thursday
It is all about political image -- nothing to do about seriously tackling the debt. Do you suppose he really thinks we're that stupid?
Below is a good one --
Texas takes legal steps to stop EPA from regulating GHGs under CAA
The ABC News story is slanted to indicate that it's because Texas is the biggest producer of GHG's. I don't know where they get their information but this list puts Texas in the middle. Hmmm -- I think they need to look at the East and West Coast -- it is automobiles that cause the problem (California had over 32 million registered in 2005). Texas just keeps them rolling with oil & gas production (think refineries). The oil & gas production to fuel vehicles throughout the states is the only thing keeping Texas out of the top of the rankings in cleanest. Picture wind power.
The best thing that has happened for GHGs recently is the week-long shut-down of D.C. because of snow. Kept the hot air in their high-rent townhouses instead of on the floor of the House and Senate.
Then there's the stimulus bill. Crazy. The reason I haven't been posting is because I've been building a business and creating jobs. Tell 'em to send us our money back from D.C. and we'll take care of jobs and stimulating the economy. At least we get results. That would probably help the debt situation too.
Life is good. Oh, and all that travel -- just stimulating the economy. Thank you, Southwest Airlines!
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
A Christmas Memory
Once upon a long time ago -- more years in fact than I care to count -- I received a shotgun for Christmas. It was my first shotgun. It was the first firearm that I ever owned.
I was taught the proper use and care of firearms from an early age. I have hunted about as long as I can remember. In fact, some of my earliest memories are of hunting with my Dad or my Grandfather (my Mother's father) or, hunting in the pasture in the company of my dog, a Beagle-Bassett cross named Daisy. Dad wouldn't let me go without the dog because he knew she would discover any rattlesnakes before I did.
Although I was able to carry a gun and hunt, I was not allowed to own one until I turned twelve. So, you know what I asked for on the Christmas just before I turned twelve -- a shotgun.
We had travelled to Tahlequah, Oklahoma, to have Christmas with my Grandmother ( my Dad's Mother) that year. Her house wasn't very big and my Dad's family was large so there were lots of us crowded into the tiny living room for opening presents. I had decided that I probably wasn't going to get my wish but sure enough, from behind the door, my Dad brought out a brand new single-shot 20-gauge shotgun for me. I couldn't believe it.
I suffered for the next couple of days because I wanted desperately to go out and try my new shotgun but my Grandmother lived in town and there was no place to go hunting. Fortunately, we were travelling on to Missouri to visit my Mother's grandparents and some other relatives as well. They lived in the country at a place called "Swamp Holler." It was just below "Jake's Knob."
Shortly after we arrived in Missouri to stay with one of my Aunts, it began to snow. It snowed and snowed. All of us kids sat in the house staring out the windows wanting to go out but it was snowing too heavily. Finally it quit and we all went out in the country to Swamp Holler. It was my first clear memory of going to my Great Grandparents house. We weren't able to go there very frequently and so I had been very young the previous trips.
Dad let me take the shotgun with me. I didn't realize it, but he and my Grandfather had a hunt planned.
The hunt began shortly after we arrived at my Great Grandparent's. My Dad, my Grandfather and I headed down into the "holler" to shoot squirrels. They were each carrying a .22 and I was carrying my brand-new shotgun. We were planning on having squirrel for supper. I'd never eaten squirrel and was a little unsure that it was something I wanted to do. But, since the rule was that if you shoot it you eat it, I planned on having squirrel for the first time.
The snow was 10 or 12 inches deep as we traipsed through the fields and the woods. I learned why the place was named Swamp Holler when my boots broke through the crusted snow and I found myself standing in the swamp bordering the creek which crossed the farm. I was in heaven walking through the woods of Missouri with my brand-new 20 gauge shotgun looking for squirrels. After awhile I began to wonder if we were ever going to see any squirrels. In fact, I was getting a crick in my neck from looking up into all of the trees in an effort to spot the elusive fur-balls. I think they must have had better eyesight than me because I don't recall ever seeing a single one.
Since the squirrels seemed to have left that part of the world, my Grandfather decided we might jump a rabbit if we would head toward my Great-uncle's place which adjoined. He had some corn stubble that he felt sure would contain a conttontail or two. Sure enough we jumped a rabbit. I was excited that we finally saw game and brought the shotgun to my shoulder and let fly a blast of No. 7 shot that should have dispatched my target. The only trouble was that it kept on going. I just stood there in disappointment that my perfect aim had somehow missed and was beginning to doubt the quality of my new Christmas present.
My Grandfather saw me standing there and said, "Reload, he'll circle around and be back by in a minute. Cottontails run in a circle."
I quickly took his advice and chambered another shell and strained to see where the cottontail might be. Sure enough, I could see him bounding over the drifts and fallen corn stalks making a wide circle that looked like it might lead back my way. Dad kept saying, "Hold on, don't shoot until he gets back in range."
I held my fire and watched until I couldn't wait any longer. BOOM! I let fly again and sure enough, that rabbit went somersaulting through the snow and lay in a heap. Grinning ear-to-ear I ran to pick him up. I had bagged my first game with my brand new shotgun.
We called it a day after that. It seems the only purpose of the hunt was to give me the chance to try out my new shotgun. We headed up the hill to my Great Uncle Bill's house where Aunt Lizzie was cooking biscuits in their wood-fired cookstove. They still had a pitcher pump in the sink in the corner of the kitchen as well.
The year was 1970. It was a year I'll never forget. That rabbit tasted pretty good but I still haven't eaten any squirrel. Family and memories -- important parts of Christmas. We must never forget however, what it is really all about.
But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger." __ Luke 2:10-12 (NIV)
I was taught the proper use and care of firearms from an early age. I have hunted about as long as I can remember. In fact, some of my earliest memories are of hunting with my Dad or my Grandfather (my Mother's father) or, hunting in the pasture in the company of my dog, a Beagle-Bassett cross named Daisy. Dad wouldn't let me go without the dog because he knew she would discover any rattlesnakes before I did.
Although I was able to carry a gun and hunt, I was not allowed to own one until I turned twelve. So, you know what I asked for on the Christmas just before I turned twelve -- a shotgun.
We had travelled to Tahlequah, Oklahoma, to have Christmas with my Grandmother ( my Dad's Mother) that year. Her house wasn't very big and my Dad's family was large so there were lots of us crowded into the tiny living room for opening presents. I had decided that I probably wasn't going to get my wish but sure enough, from behind the door, my Dad brought out a brand new single-shot 20-gauge shotgun for me. I couldn't believe it.
I suffered for the next couple of days because I wanted desperately to go out and try my new shotgun but my Grandmother lived in town and there was no place to go hunting. Fortunately, we were travelling on to Missouri to visit my Mother's grandparents and some other relatives as well. They lived in the country at a place called "Swamp Holler." It was just below "Jake's Knob."
Shortly after we arrived in Missouri to stay with one of my Aunts, it began to snow. It snowed and snowed. All of us kids sat in the house staring out the windows wanting to go out but it was snowing too heavily. Finally it quit and we all went out in the country to Swamp Holler. It was my first clear memory of going to my Great Grandparents house. We weren't able to go there very frequently and so I had been very young the previous trips.
Dad let me take the shotgun with me. I didn't realize it, but he and my Grandfather had a hunt planned.
The hunt began shortly after we arrived at my Great Grandparent's. My Dad, my Grandfather and I headed down into the "holler" to shoot squirrels. They were each carrying a .22 and I was carrying my brand-new shotgun. We were planning on having squirrel for supper. I'd never eaten squirrel and was a little unsure that it was something I wanted to do. But, since the rule was that if you shoot it you eat it, I planned on having squirrel for the first time.
The snow was 10 or 12 inches deep as we traipsed through the fields and the woods. I learned why the place was named Swamp Holler when my boots broke through the crusted snow and I found myself standing in the swamp bordering the creek which crossed the farm. I was in heaven walking through the woods of Missouri with my brand-new 20 gauge shotgun looking for squirrels. After awhile I began to wonder if we were ever going to see any squirrels. In fact, I was getting a crick in my neck from looking up into all of the trees in an effort to spot the elusive fur-balls. I think they must have had better eyesight than me because I don't recall ever seeing a single one.
Since the squirrels seemed to have left that part of the world, my Grandfather decided we might jump a rabbit if we would head toward my Great-uncle's place which adjoined. He had some corn stubble that he felt sure would contain a conttontail or two. Sure enough we jumped a rabbit. I was excited that we finally saw game and brought the shotgun to my shoulder and let fly a blast of No. 7 shot that should have dispatched my target. The only trouble was that it kept on going. I just stood there in disappointment that my perfect aim had somehow missed and was beginning to doubt the quality of my new Christmas present.
My Grandfather saw me standing there and said, "Reload, he'll circle around and be back by in a minute. Cottontails run in a circle."
I quickly took his advice and chambered another shell and strained to see where the cottontail might be. Sure enough, I could see him bounding over the drifts and fallen corn stalks making a wide circle that looked like it might lead back my way. Dad kept saying, "Hold on, don't shoot until he gets back in range."
I held my fire and watched until I couldn't wait any longer. BOOM! I let fly again and sure enough, that rabbit went somersaulting through the snow and lay in a heap. Grinning ear-to-ear I ran to pick him up. I had bagged my first game with my brand new shotgun.
We called it a day after that. It seems the only purpose of the hunt was to give me the chance to try out my new shotgun. We headed up the hill to my Great Uncle Bill's house where Aunt Lizzie was cooking biscuits in their wood-fired cookstove. They still had a pitcher pump in the sink in the corner of the kitchen as well.
The year was 1970. It was a year I'll never forget. That rabbit tasted pretty good but I still haven't eaten any squirrel. Family and memories -- important parts of Christmas. We must never forget however, what it is really all about.
But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger." __ Luke 2:10-12 (NIV)
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Cattle Emissions and Conspiracy Theories
OK. I’ve finally had enough of the ludicrous idea that the way to control greenhouse gases is to regulate emissions by livestock. I suspect it is really a plan to destroy the livestock industry by those who think we should all become Vegans. Or, maybe it is something even more sinister.
The carbon cycle is relatively simple to describe although its actions are complex. Living things are carbon-based. This includes plants and animals. Plants take carbon-dioxide out of the atmosphere, trap the carbon into their tissue in the form of various molecules such as sugars and then release Oxygen. Animals eat plants (or other animals) and through the process of digestion, break down the complex molecules (such as sugars) from the plant material and utilize the released energy to fuel their existence. In the process of digestion, some of the carbon is released back into the atmosphere as various gases and carbon dioxide is released through respiration. This process cycles the carbon in a somewhat continuous loop. Plants also release carbon when they die. The process of decomposition releases carbon into the atmosphere.
This carbon cycle has continued since the beginning of life on this planet. At one time in pre-history, there was significantly more carbon floating around in the atmosphere which fueled riotous growth of plants. Many of those plants were then trapped in sediment and over time changed to oil, gas and coal or were bound into limestone and other sedimentary rocks.
Until we began releasing the carbon that was “sequestered” in the form of oil, gas and coal, carbon wasn’t a problem. It was cycled through plants and animals just as it is today. It was this release from the utilization of fossil fuels of huge amounts of carbon back into the carbon cycle that created what some scientists today are claiming to be a cataclysmic problem for life on earth. In other words – it isn’t the cattle that are causing “climate change,” it is the burning of fossil fuels that released huge amounts of trapped carbon into the atmosphere that is causing the increase of atmospheric greenhouse gases.
So, why do our government and the governments of other nations throughout the world think the solution lies in regulating gas produced by cattle? Here is one possibility – it is part of the plan to control the world food supply. In the U.S. most crops are subsidized through various support payments. Livestock production is not. Placing regulations on the livestock producers under the guise of controlling greenhouse gas emissions makes sense only in the context of attempting to gain control of one of the few lightly regulated industries left.
It fits into what could be construed as a plan to force a one-world government. The way I see it, if one wanted to control the world you would begin with a series of induced crises. The crises would be designed to gain control of some key things – banking, energy and food. Hmmmm…..we recently saw manipulation of the first two of these items. That leaves food. I wonder what’s really going on behind the scenes in Copenhagen……
The carbon cycle is relatively simple to describe although its actions are complex. Living things are carbon-based. This includes plants and animals. Plants take carbon-dioxide out of the atmosphere, trap the carbon into their tissue in the form of various molecules such as sugars and then release Oxygen. Animals eat plants (or other animals) and through the process of digestion, break down the complex molecules (such as sugars) from the plant material and utilize the released energy to fuel their existence. In the process of digestion, some of the carbon is released back into the atmosphere as various gases and carbon dioxide is released through respiration. This process cycles the carbon in a somewhat continuous loop. Plants also release carbon when they die. The process of decomposition releases carbon into the atmosphere.
This carbon cycle has continued since the beginning of life on this planet. At one time in pre-history, there was significantly more carbon floating around in the atmosphere which fueled riotous growth of plants. Many of those plants were then trapped in sediment and over time changed to oil, gas and coal or were bound into limestone and other sedimentary rocks.
Until we began releasing the carbon that was “sequestered” in the form of oil, gas and coal, carbon wasn’t a problem. It was cycled through plants and animals just as it is today. It was this release from the utilization of fossil fuels of huge amounts of carbon back into the carbon cycle that created what some scientists today are claiming to be a cataclysmic problem for life on earth. In other words – it isn’t the cattle that are causing “climate change,” it is the burning of fossil fuels that released huge amounts of trapped carbon into the atmosphere that is causing the increase of atmospheric greenhouse gases.
So, why do our government and the governments of other nations throughout the world think the solution lies in regulating gas produced by cattle? Here is one possibility – it is part of the plan to control the world food supply. In the U.S. most crops are subsidized through various support payments. Livestock production is not. Placing regulations on the livestock producers under the guise of controlling greenhouse gas emissions makes sense only in the context of attempting to gain control of one of the few lightly regulated industries left.
It fits into what could be construed as a plan to force a one-world government. The way I see it, if one wanted to control the world you would begin with a series of induced crises. The crises would be designed to gain control of some key things – banking, energy and food. Hmmmm…..we recently saw manipulation of the first two of these items. That leaves food. I wonder what’s really going on behind the scenes in Copenhagen……
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Ranch Rodeo Time
This week the 14th World Championship Ranch Rodeo is being held in Amarillo, Texas. The rodeo was created to draw attention to the cause of the Working Ranch Cowboys Association (WRCA) of preserving the heritage and lifestyle of the Working Ranch Cowboy and to raise money for the Working Ranch Cowboy Fund (WRCF). The WRCF was created as a means of providing support to the families of Working Ranch Cowboys in times of need and to provide scholarships to children of Working Ranch Cowboys. The support is confidential and is generally at the request of friends or neighbors.
Along with the rodeo, the event features a Cowboy Trade and Trappings Show as well as a Ranch Equipment Expo. For those who have ranching backgrounds but may have moved away from the lifestyle, the event provides a wonderful opportunity to touch base with the ranching heritage and the cowboy lifestyle. For the uninitiated, it may seem anachronistic, but it truly is a continuing way of life that helps to bring quality food to the table while living in a manner that is very much in harmony with the land.
Ranchers are among the leading conservationists. The wildlife and ecosystems of the land for which they view themselves as caretakers, would not have been conserved for our generation, let alone future generations, if not for their efforts.
If you happen to be in Amarillo this weekend, stop by for a glimpse into the cowboy lifestyle.
Along with the rodeo, the event features a Cowboy Trade and Trappings Show as well as a Ranch Equipment Expo. For those who have ranching backgrounds but may have moved away from the lifestyle, the event provides a wonderful opportunity to touch base with the ranching heritage and the cowboy lifestyle. For the uninitiated, it may seem anachronistic, but it truly is a continuing way of life that helps to bring quality food to the table while living in a manner that is very much in harmony with the land.
Ranchers are among the leading conservationists. The wildlife and ecosystems of the land for which they view themselves as caretakers, would not have been conserved for our generation, let alone future generations, if not for their efforts.
If you happen to be in Amarillo this weekend, stop by for a glimpse into the cowboy lifestyle.
Monday, October 26, 2009
Questions for the Reader
As we approach Halloween, I find myself appalled yet, intrigued, by the obsession of our culture with "horror" on television, in the movies and in the decorating of yards. Horror, or extreme fear, sends an adrenaline rush through our bodies that provides a momentary "high" which some find appealing.
I suspect that adrenaline rush is part of the self-preservation mechanisms designed into our bodies. It gives us that extra surge of energy to escape an attacking lion or an enemy. In today's society however, movies, etc., which seek to give us that adrenaline surge, are built around themes of evil. Therefore, I think it an appropriate time to ask some questions.
What is evil?
Is man basically evil or basically good?
If, like many, you believe that man is basically good, from where did evil come?
Please feel free to submit answers to the questions in the comments.
I suspect that adrenaline rush is part of the self-preservation mechanisms designed into our bodies. It gives us that extra surge of energy to escape an attacking lion or an enemy. In today's society however, movies, etc., which seek to give us that adrenaline surge, are built around themes of evil. Therefore, I think it an appropriate time to ask some questions.
What is evil?
Is man basically evil or basically good?
If, like many, you believe that man is basically good, from where did evil come?
Please feel free to submit answers to the questions in the comments.
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Just A Post
Once again it has been a long time between posts. I have been "crazy busy" with work. It seems that my travel schedule continues to get worse. In fact, from now until the middle of December I have something every week that requires out-of-town travel. I enjoy my job -- I get tired of being away from home.
We have started "The Truth Project." It is a video series produced by Focus On The Family that delves into the Christian Worldview vs. the Secular Worldview. It is an absolute must for all Christians who desire to live at a higher level in this world. It is a great tool for opening eyes to the lies that surround us. You can find out more about it at www.thetruthproject.org.
Cold-and-flu season is in full swing. I am fighting a cold. It makes it difficult to stay focused on the things that I need to accomplish. This too shall pass.
Enough of this -- I'd better get back to work.
We have started "The Truth Project." It is a video series produced by Focus On The Family that delves into the Christian Worldview vs. the Secular Worldview. It is an absolute must for all Christians who desire to live at a higher level in this world. It is a great tool for opening eyes to the lies that surround us. You can find out more about it at www.thetruthproject.org.
Cold-and-flu season is in full swing. I am fighting a cold. It makes it difficult to stay focused on the things that I need to accomplish. This too shall pass.
Enough of this -- I'd better get back to work.
Sunday, September 27, 2009
Random Thoughts
It has been a long time since I have posted anything to my blog. There's really no good reason. I just have not been especially motivated to write much lately.
I am totally depressed over the political landscape right now. I see nothing good happening in Washington. I refuse to join the rant over all the things wrong and I don't have the time to write a truly reasoned dissertation on the many ways in which our government has overstepped its bounds and moved dramatically toward despotism.
My work has required a level of intensity for the last several months that has left little energy for pursuing other interests. We are in an expansion mode. Yes, through the economic storm and the politically motivated attacks on my chosen industry, we have grown. Of course, most people don't realize that it takes twice as much effort to obtain the same amount of business in a downturn as it does when times are good. So, growth means about three times the effort. But, I consider it good.
I think that through the last year of political and economic turmoil my spiritual growth has been evident -- at least to me. Of course, the big event was the trip to Africa. Such a trip would be a turning point in anyone's life I would hope. It has become very evident to me that God works in the lives of those who are faithful to Him -- those who seek His will. That doesn't mean that we perfectly follow His will -- it means that our focus is constantly turned toward, or is seeking Him. The pursuit of worldly things becomes secondary -- a subplot if you will -- to the pursuit of God. Our fleshly nature continually tries to assert itself in our daily lives, but we are reminded that such things are not pleasing to Him and we seek to subjugate such desires to His will. We become aware of just how "messy" the Christian life can be. We fail. We get up and try again. We cry out to God for strength. We fail some more.
In fact, that's a subject worthy of expansion -- the "messiness" of Christianity. The world expects Christians to live exemplary lives. Not all of us do so. In fact, none of us do in spite of our public face. War is messy and that's what the life of a Christian becomes -- a war. It is war at the Spiritual level. It is a war between the "systems" of the world and our desire to live according to God's will -- which is completely outside any earthly system. It is a war between our fleshly nature -- that is, the desires of our "natural" self -- and our desire to live as God would have us to live -- that is, subjugating our fleshly desires to His will. And it is a war between the very source of evil -- Satan, the Devil, or whatever you choose to call him -- and our desire once again to live a life pleasing to God. So, the Christian fights a battle on three fronts -- 1) the "systems" of this world, 2) our "natural" self, and 3) the Evil One who desires our allegiance in opposition to God the Creator. It's no wonder so many fail and it's no wonder so many choose the ways of this world. To follow the ways of the world is easier.
However, there is one thing we must remember. Jesus the Christ has already won the war. By faith in Him alone are we saved. We must always remember that it is not our efforts that are rewarded by Salvation -- it is our trust in the Saving Grace offered by Jesus Christ that we receive mercy as our reward rather than what we truly deserve based on our pitiful efforts.
OK. Now what?
A couple of weeks ago I was asked to share about the trip to Africa with my Sunday School class. I began by telling them, "Go! Just go. If you ever get the chance to go on a mission trip anywhere, go!" I ended the same way. "Go!" That is what Jesus called us to do in Matthew 28. "Go!"
And now, I must go. May you go in peace and may the God of Peace touch your life with His love. I will try to do better with my posting -- no promises though.
I am totally depressed over the political landscape right now. I see nothing good happening in Washington. I refuse to join the rant over all the things wrong and I don't have the time to write a truly reasoned dissertation on the many ways in which our government has overstepped its bounds and moved dramatically toward despotism.
My work has required a level of intensity for the last several months that has left little energy for pursuing other interests. We are in an expansion mode. Yes, through the economic storm and the politically motivated attacks on my chosen industry, we have grown. Of course, most people don't realize that it takes twice as much effort to obtain the same amount of business in a downturn as it does when times are good. So, growth means about three times the effort. But, I consider it good.
I think that through the last year of political and economic turmoil my spiritual growth has been evident -- at least to me. Of course, the big event was the trip to Africa. Such a trip would be a turning point in anyone's life I would hope. It has become very evident to me that God works in the lives of those who are faithful to Him -- those who seek His will. That doesn't mean that we perfectly follow His will -- it means that our focus is constantly turned toward, or is seeking Him. The pursuit of worldly things becomes secondary -- a subplot if you will -- to the pursuit of God. Our fleshly nature continually tries to assert itself in our daily lives, but we are reminded that such things are not pleasing to Him and we seek to subjugate such desires to His will. We become aware of just how "messy" the Christian life can be. We fail. We get up and try again. We cry out to God for strength. We fail some more.
In fact, that's a subject worthy of expansion -- the "messiness" of Christianity. The world expects Christians to live exemplary lives. Not all of us do so. In fact, none of us do in spite of our public face. War is messy and that's what the life of a Christian becomes -- a war. It is war at the Spiritual level. It is a war between the "systems" of the world and our desire to live according to God's will -- which is completely outside any earthly system. It is a war between our fleshly nature -- that is, the desires of our "natural" self -- and our desire to live as God would have us to live -- that is, subjugating our fleshly desires to His will. And it is a war between the very source of evil -- Satan, the Devil, or whatever you choose to call him -- and our desire once again to live a life pleasing to God. So, the Christian fights a battle on three fronts -- 1) the "systems" of this world, 2) our "natural" self, and 3) the Evil One who desires our allegiance in opposition to God the Creator. It's no wonder so many fail and it's no wonder so many choose the ways of this world. To follow the ways of the world is easier.
However, there is one thing we must remember. Jesus the Christ has already won the war. By faith in Him alone are we saved. We must always remember that it is not our efforts that are rewarded by Salvation -- it is our trust in the Saving Grace offered by Jesus Christ that we receive mercy as our reward rather than what we truly deserve based on our pitiful efforts.
OK. Now what?
A couple of weeks ago I was asked to share about the trip to Africa with my Sunday School class. I began by telling them, "Go! Just go. If you ever get the chance to go on a mission trip anywhere, go!" I ended the same way. "Go!" That is what Jesus called us to do in Matthew 28. "Go!"
And now, I must go. May you go in peace and may the God of Peace touch your life with His love. I will try to do better with my posting -- no promises though.
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Random Pic's From Niger
The photos below are from my recent trip to Niger, Africa. I am leaving out captions. You can see that my primary focus was the people.
Friday, July 24, 2009
Niger -- Opportunity or Exploitation?
Niger is a landlocked country on the African continent slightly less than twice the size of Texas. Its economy is based primarily on agriculture but the country has mineral assets consisting of uranium, coal, iron ore, tin, phosphates, gold, molybdenum, gypsum, salt and petroleum. Only 11.43% of the land is arable. It is predominately desert (Sahara).
It is one of the hottest countries on earth. It is also one of the poorest.
The male life expectancy is 51.39 years. Female is 53.85 years.
Infant mortality is 116.66/1,000. 5th worst in the world.
CIA ranks risk of major diseases as very high.
The country has a 28.7% literacy rate.
The country is currently in a political crisis. The President, Mamadou Tanja, is seeking to extend his term as President. He is limited by the constitution, but recently fired all cabinet and elected officials and called a Constitutional Convention to change the constitution to allow additional terms in office. The people seem to support him in this. The Convention has until August 4th to come up with a new Constitution.
The country is one of the poorest in the world.
It is being slowly invaded by China who has its eye on the uranium deposits -- some of the largest in the world.
When I flew into the country a few weeks ago, I would estimate there were at least 30 Chinese mining engineers on the flight with me. Locals told me that such events were commonplace.
I saw Chinese made tractors in the hands of at least one regional governor. Hmmmm.
The U.S. had better step up quickly or the Chinese will control the minerals of this poor and desperate country.
What better way for a political leader seeking to extend his power than to provide gifts to the poor of his country -- gifts that cost him nothing (tractors) yet are signs of an attempt to influence the bidding of contracts for the few resources the country has that have significant value on the world market.
It is one of the hottest countries on earth. It is also one of the poorest.
The male life expectancy is 51.39 years. Female is 53.85 years.
Infant mortality is 116.66/1,000. 5th worst in the world.
CIA ranks risk of major diseases as very high.
The country has a 28.7% literacy rate.
The country is currently in a political crisis. The President, Mamadou Tanja, is seeking to extend his term as President. He is limited by the constitution, but recently fired all cabinet and elected officials and called a Constitutional Convention to change the constitution to allow additional terms in office. The people seem to support him in this. The Convention has until August 4th to come up with a new Constitution.
The country is one of the poorest in the world.
It is being slowly invaded by China who has its eye on the uranium deposits -- some of the largest in the world.
When I flew into the country a few weeks ago, I would estimate there were at least 30 Chinese mining engineers on the flight with me. Locals told me that such events were commonplace.
I saw Chinese made tractors in the hands of at least one regional governor. Hmmmm.
The U.S. had better step up quickly or the Chinese will control the minerals of this poor and desperate country.
What better way for a political leader seeking to extend his power than to provide gifts to the poor of his country -- gifts that cost him nothing (tractors) yet are signs of an attempt to influence the bidding of contracts for the few resources the country has that have significant value on the world market.
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
You Ask About My Trip
I wrote 38 pages in my journal about the trip....
It only scratched the surface.
I have almost 600 photos on my camera....
I rarely had it with me.
I felt at home there....
I have often felt like a stranger in a strange land here.
Church there is fresh and alive and lasts for hours....
I've been struggling with church here.
Fresh, clean water is a luxury there....
I took a long, hot, indulgent shower here.
Community is everything there....
I don't even know all of my neighbors here.
Obtaining the next meal is the daily focus there....
I threw away half my fries from my Big Mac meal at lunch.
Signs of sickness and disease were on every happy face there....
We gripe and complain about the cost of health care here.
It took an hour to baptize 5 new believers there....
We rush through a meaningless? baptism in minutes.
Yesterday, I was on another continent -- it might have been another world....
Today, I fell into my ruts as though I had never left.
Help me, Father! This can't be right.
(More to come.)
It only scratched the surface.
I have almost 600 photos on my camera....
I rarely had it with me.
I felt at home there....
I have often felt like a stranger in a strange land here.
Church there is fresh and alive and lasts for hours....
I've been struggling with church here.
Fresh, clean water is a luxury there....
I took a long, hot, indulgent shower here.
Community is everything there....
I don't even know all of my neighbors here.
Obtaining the next meal is the daily focus there....
I threw away half my fries from my Big Mac meal at lunch.
Signs of sickness and disease were on every happy face there....
We gripe and complain about the cost of health care here.
It took an hour to baptize 5 new believers there....
We rush through a meaningless? baptism in minutes.
Yesterday, I was on another continent -- it might have been another world....
Today, I fell into my ruts as though I had never left.
Help me, Father! This can't be right.
(More to come.)
Monday, July 6, 2009
Once in a Lifetime?
Today I leave on a trip that for me, is probably the trip of a lifetime. I am headed to Africa.
There is a group of us. I'm the old man in the bunch. It is mostly college students.
We will be traveling to a country in West Africa where the International Mission Board of the Southern Baptist Convention has a mission. The trip is in support of that mission effort to reach a people group that is among the poorest in the world and in a country that is also one of the poorest in the world.
Where we will be traveling is located in the zone between the Sahara desert and the tropics. It is an area referred to as the Sahel. The expected temperature upon arrival in the capital city is 100 with a 100% chance of rain. The heat index will be 107.
It is not a vacation, however, we do get to spend about 1 1/2 days in London on the way there. A little sightseeing is planned.
I hope to be able to post an account of the trip on my return. All will be quiet on the blog until after the 21st.
There is a group of us. I'm the old man in the bunch. It is mostly college students.
We will be traveling to a country in West Africa where the International Mission Board of the Southern Baptist Convention has a mission. The trip is in support of that mission effort to reach a people group that is among the poorest in the world and in a country that is also one of the poorest in the world.
Where we will be traveling is located in the zone between the Sahara desert and the tropics. It is an area referred to as the Sahel. The expected temperature upon arrival in the capital city is 100 with a 100% chance of rain. The heat index will be 107.
It is not a vacation, however, we do get to spend about 1 1/2 days in London on the way there. A little sightseeing is planned.
I hope to be able to post an account of the trip on my return. All will be quiet on the blog until after the 21st.
Saturday, July 4, 2009
On This 4th of July
On July 4, 1776, we declared our independence from Great Britain. We claimed the right to self-governance with representation of the people's will in determination of the laws of our land. We claimed the right to reject an oppressive government and replace it with one that was both responsive to and responsible to the people of this land.
That oppression arose from our dependency on Great Britain. The original colonists needed the support of the mother country for survival. In return, the king required taxes. Those taxes paid for wars that caused a mounting debt. The response of the king was to increase taxes to finance his aggressive policies that sought to consolidate his power.
The people sought relief from the burden but were ignored. They sought representation of their views but were rejected. Over time, their dependency allowed the king to increase taxes to the point they could no longer be borne by the people and they rebelled.
Through the blood of committed individuals that Independence was accomplished over the course of 40+ years when we finally severed the control of Great Britain in the War of 1812. Yet, it didn't end there. We remained a nation seeking to find its way. We continued to seek a balance of power in how we were governed which culminated in a Civil War that consolidated power in the federal government. It was a result that led to better relations between the various races which comprise our people, but eroded the power of the people by consolidating it in the hands of the federal government.
We have survived global wars in which the United States came to the aid of nations whose values resembled our own. We have gone wherever necessary to combat the tendency of man to consolidate power through aggression. Yet we have allowed special interests to consolidate power within our own borders.
We have struggled with our own identity. We are a nation of many varied yet closely held beliefs. We have faced many issues that arise from the human frailties of self-interest and fear. We have made great strides in creating an environment of equality of opportunity for all. Yet we have allowed those same frailties of self-interest and fear to be used against us by the very politicians we elected to serve us.
We continue to struggle. Today we face some of the greatest challenges that we have ever faced as a nation. Many of those challenges are the result of the quest for power of individuals and groups who have only their self-interest at heart. They seek power for gain and not in service for the good of the nation and its people. They bully and intimidate through the power of the purse.
That such individuals and groups hold the reins of power is the fault of the people. Enough of us have allowed ourselves to be subjugated to the carefully orchestrated largess of the state and federal powers that our Independence has been lost. That subjugation has resulted in efforts to further consolidate power through expanding government services in ways that create further dependency. We see today an aggressive expansion and consolidation of power through the use of regulation and welfare (although not always by that name). We have become a nation controlled by dependency. Therein lies our downfall.
Our dependency on the government has created a situation of mounting debt that must be repaid. It is the tendency in such times to use taxation to repay the debt. The burden of government has become oppressive. We are facing a crisis in our nation that in many ways resembles the conditions prior to the War for Independence. It is time once again for our government to become both responsive to and responsible to the people.
(Also posted at Panhandle's Perspective)
That oppression arose from our dependency on Great Britain. The original colonists needed the support of the mother country for survival. In return, the king required taxes. Those taxes paid for wars that caused a mounting debt. The response of the king was to increase taxes to finance his aggressive policies that sought to consolidate his power.
The people sought relief from the burden but were ignored. They sought representation of their views but were rejected. Over time, their dependency allowed the king to increase taxes to the point they could no longer be borne by the people and they rebelled.
Through the blood of committed individuals that Independence was accomplished over the course of 40+ years when we finally severed the control of Great Britain in the War of 1812. Yet, it didn't end there. We remained a nation seeking to find its way. We continued to seek a balance of power in how we were governed which culminated in a Civil War that consolidated power in the federal government. It was a result that led to better relations between the various races which comprise our people, but eroded the power of the people by consolidating it in the hands of the federal government.
We have survived global wars in which the United States came to the aid of nations whose values resembled our own. We have gone wherever necessary to combat the tendency of man to consolidate power through aggression. Yet we have allowed special interests to consolidate power within our own borders.
We have struggled with our own identity. We are a nation of many varied yet closely held beliefs. We have faced many issues that arise from the human frailties of self-interest and fear. We have made great strides in creating an environment of equality of opportunity for all. Yet we have allowed those same frailties of self-interest and fear to be used against us by the very politicians we elected to serve us.
We continue to struggle. Today we face some of the greatest challenges that we have ever faced as a nation. Many of those challenges are the result of the quest for power of individuals and groups who have only their self-interest at heart. They seek power for gain and not in service for the good of the nation and its people. They bully and intimidate through the power of the purse.
That such individuals and groups hold the reins of power is the fault of the people. Enough of us have allowed ourselves to be subjugated to the carefully orchestrated largess of the state and federal powers that our Independence has been lost. That subjugation has resulted in efforts to further consolidate power through expanding government services in ways that create further dependency. We see today an aggressive expansion and consolidation of power through the use of regulation and welfare (although not always by that name). We have become a nation controlled by dependency. Therein lies our downfall.
Our dependency on the government has created a situation of mounting debt that must be repaid. It is the tendency in such times to use taxation to repay the debt. The burden of government has become oppressive. We are facing a crisis in our nation that in many ways resembles the conditions prior to the War for Independence. It is time once again for our government to become both responsive to and responsible to the people.
(Also posted at Panhandle's Perspective)
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Corporate Worship and the Praise Team
When I think about corporate worship -- and in a broader sense, the church in general -- the thought comes to mind that it is ideally much like an orchestra or a choir. The body of believers are the members, each performing his assigned part, while God directs the performance. As long as each individual does his part and follows the direction of the Director, the result is beautiful.
Now, a difficult question comes to mind. If each individual fails to perform his part, is the symphony ruined? In the case of a choir or orchestra the result is often less than satisfying -- perhaps incomplete would be a better description. In the case of the church does the same hold true?
I ask the question because God, being all-powerful, really has no need for us to fill all of the parts because He can supply anything that is missing and turn imperfection into perfection. But, does He? Or, does He choose to allow imperfection in order for those who are doing their part to grow by reaching out to those who are failing in their own?
When we hear a symphony or other type of musical performance we form a judgment. We either like/enjoy it, or we do not. Often our enjoyment is a function of our own attitude upon listening. However, there are times that we can come with low expectations and be lifted above our "mood" and into the realm of ecstasy. This typically occurs when a performance is executed virtually flawlessly -- technically, artistically, "energetically" and intellectually. It appeals to our sense of perfection, it pleases us aesthetically, it energizes us and it exercises our intellect.
One of the keys is that the parts are blended together in a balance that pleases our senses. If any part is not in balance with all of the others it distracts from the overall perfection of the piece. It distorts the performance.
In my post yesterday about "Energy and Music" I referred to our Praise Team in a manner that was less-than praiseworthy. I focused on the issue of energy. Perhaps part of the "draining" effect is due to a lack of balance. If each part is not performed in a manner that blends with the other parts, could that be the source of the draining effect?
Now, a critical question. Is it due to leadership style, lack of technical expertise, failure to follow, or some other factor? I don't see technical expertise as the issue. The level of talent in our Praise Team is exceptional. Leadership style could be a factor because there seems to be an unwillingness to confront the issue of individualism. It should be a corporate performance -- not a simultaneous set of individual performances. Ego comes into play. With the abundance of talent, it seems there is a universal attitude of "I'm the best so I need to really get-out-front on the music." That brings us to the issue of "failure to follow."
As I read the Gospel and focus on the ultimate message of Jesus I find that in a large sense it can be wrapped up in the statement -- it's all about denying self and glorifying God. Matthew 22:36-39 sums it up.
If we do this -- "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind...and love your neighbor as yourself." -- we solve the issue of "failure to follow." Because we then realize that each of us must do our part and not "run over" others who are seeking to perform their part. We blend into the symphony rather than distract from it.
I don't know -- maybe my rambling is a bit of a stretch. I just know that it could be better. To get better one must first identify the problem.
If you ask someone on the Praise Team they are likely to say that it is a lack of participation on the part of the audience/congregation/worshippers. Could it be that they are merely a reflection of what is going on up front?
Much prayer is needed.
Now, a difficult question comes to mind. If each individual fails to perform his part, is the symphony ruined? In the case of a choir or orchestra the result is often less than satisfying -- perhaps incomplete would be a better description. In the case of the church does the same hold true?
I ask the question because God, being all-powerful, really has no need for us to fill all of the parts because He can supply anything that is missing and turn imperfection into perfection. But, does He? Or, does He choose to allow imperfection in order for those who are doing their part to grow by reaching out to those who are failing in their own?
When we hear a symphony or other type of musical performance we form a judgment. We either like/enjoy it, or we do not. Often our enjoyment is a function of our own attitude upon listening. However, there are times that we can come with low expectations and be lifted above our "mood" and into the realm of ecstasy. This typically occurs when a performance is executed virtually flawlessly -- technically, artistically, "energetically" and intellectually. It appeals to our sense of perfection, it pleases us aesthetically, it energizes us and it exercises our intellect.
One of the keys is that the parts are blended together in a balance that pleases our senses. If any part is not in balance with all of the others it distracts from the overall perfection of the piece. It distorts the performance.
In my post yesterday about "Energy and Music" I referred to our Praise Team in a manner that was less-than praiseworthy. I focused on the issue of energy. Perhaps part of the "draining" effect is due to a lack of balance. If each part is not performed in a manner that blends with the other parts, could that be the source of the draining effect?
Now, a critical question. Is it due to leadership style, lack of technical expertise, failure to follow, or some other factor? I don't see technical expertise as the issue. The level of talent in our Praise Team is exceptional. Leadership style could be a factor because there seems to be an unwillingness to confront the issue of individualism. It should be a corporate performance -- not a simultaneous set of individual performances. Ego comes into play. With the abundance of talent, it seems there is a universal attitude of "I'm the best so I need to really get-out-front on the music." That brings us to the issue of "failure to follow."
As I read the Gospel and focus on the ultimate message of Jesus I find that in a large sense it can be wrapped up in the statement -- it's all about denying self and glorifying God. Matthew 22:36-39 sums it up.
If we do this -- "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind...and love your neighbor as yourself." -- we solve the issue of "failure to follow." Because we then realize that each of us must do our part and not "run over" others who are seeking to perform their part. We blend into the symphony rather than distract from it.
I don't know -- maybe my rambling is a bit of a stretch. I just know that it could be better. To get better one must first identify the problem.
If you ask someone on the Praise Team they are likely to say that it is a lack of participation on the part of the audience/congregation/worshippers. Could it be that they are merely a reflection of what is going on up front?
Much prayer is needed.
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Energy and Music
Music is important to me. I would not consider it a driving passion as it is with many, however, I enjoy both listening and performing music.
I like many kinds of music. It often depends upon my mood.
I also enjoy silence, or the "music" of nature. Yesterday, I ate lunch at the park. The birds sang continuously.
I'm not one that must listen to music constantly. I don't go around with an iPod and headphones. Nor do I constantly play CD's or the radio as I drive -- and I drive a lot.
I am very particular about music. I like for it to be well executed. However, in a live performance, I do not expect perfection -- which brings me to the reason that I am creating this post.
Music in church.
There are two basic styles of worship music. There is Choral and there is Praise and Worship. I enjoy both when executed well. Therein is the issue.
What does it mean for music to be well-executed in a live performance? To me it is a combination of factors but the underlying strength of the performance resides in "heart." If the performer doesn't put their heart into the music it will lack energy -- even if executed flawlessly.
Our church choir generally puts a lot of heart into its performance -- especially the choir special or a special performance. There is a wide variety of levels of talent within the choir -- from exceptionally gifted to "nothing but heart." The thing that sets the choir apart however, is heart. Each of the individuals come together in a common concert of worship as they pour their hearts into the music -- not the performance. With rare exception, the performances generate energy. It is the result of each one pouring his heart into the musical offering. It is the product of the emotion.
Our Praise Team on the other hand is blessed with very gifted musicians. Each one does an exceptional job of executing the music. Therein lies a problem. When each of these gifted musicians performs on the "team" they are performing individually and concurrently. A couple of them put a measure of "heart" into their performance but they often are each "performing" individually and not pouring their heart into a worship experience. The result is often one in which it feels as though energy is being "sucked" out of the congregation. It becomes a draining experience rather than one in which we are energized.
Now I must clarify somewhat. The musicians playing instruments come together as a Team. The problem lies in the vocals. They each perform wonderfully -- but NOT as a Team. They are performing as individuals.
If any of those individuals should read this, I pray that it will be accepted not as a criticism of their skills, talents or performance. It is an offering from my heart of a desire for them to experience the power of worship as a team -- the power of worship as the body of Christ. When that happens in corporate worship the result is an amazing, energizing experience.
I like many kinds of music. It often depends upon my mood.
I also enjoy silence, or the "music" of nature. Yesterday, I ate lunch at the park. The birds sang continuously.
I'm not one that must listen to music constantly. I don't go around with an iPod and headphones. Nor do I constantly play CD's or the radio as I drive -- and I drive a lot.
I am very particular about music. I like for it to be well executed. However, in a live performance, I do not expect perfection -- which brings me to the reason that I am creating this post.
Music in church.
There are two basic styles of worship music. There is Choral and there is Praise and Worship. I enjoy both when executed well. Therein is the issue.
What does it mean for music to be well-executed in a live performance? To me it is a combination of factors but the underlying strength of the performance resides in "heart." If the performer doesn't put their heart into the music it will lack energy -- even if executed flawlessly.
Our church choir generally puts a lot of heart into its performance -- especially the choir special or a special performance. There is a wide variety of levels of talent within the choir -- from exceptionally gifted to "nothing but heart." The thing that sets the choir apart however, is heart. Each of the individuals come together in a common concert of worship as they pour their hearts into the music -- not the performance. With rare exception, the performances generate energy. It is the result of each one pouring his heart into the musical offering. It is the product of the emotion.
Our Praise Team on the other hand is blessed with very gifted musicians. Each one does an exceptional job of executing the music. Therein lies a problem. When each of these gifted musicians performs on the "team" they are performing individually and concurrently. A couple of them put a measure of "heart" into their performance but they often are each "performing" individually and not pouring their heart into a worship experience. The result is often one in which it feels as though energy is being "sucked" out of the congregation. It becomes a draining experience rather than one in which we are energized.
Now I must clarify somewhat. The musicians playing instruments come together as a Team. The problem lies in the vocals. They each perform wonderfully -- but NOT as a Team. They are performing as individuals.
If any of those individuals should read this, I pray that it will be accepted not as a criticism of their skills, talents or performance. It is an offering from my heart of a desire for them to experience the power of worship as a team -- the power of worship as the body of Christ. When that happens in corporate worship the result is an amazing, energizing experience.
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
The Bovine Disposition
The Bovine Disposition
The bovine was designed by God
To be food for those that prey
That's why his eyes are on the side
So he can see all ways.
He tends to congregate in herds
And follows without thought
The flighty actions of the ones
Who dash in fits and starts
At any sound or movement
That catches their attention.
That's why they're easily gathered
Into pens where they are caught.
They blithely go about the day
Just eating grass or hay
Or lying about and chewing their cud
Content in every way.
They have no powers of reason
So it really makes no sense
To wonder what they're thinking
Because they really can't.
It reminds me of the people
Whose voting majority
Brought into power the leaders
Of the current Administration.
Neither realized that they
Both will soon fall prey
To the predators
Who herd and feed and keep them.
Monday, June 15, 2009
The Indian Blanket
The Indian Blanket or Firewheel, is probably my favorite wildflower. Its scientific name is Gaillardia pulchella and it is native to the central U.S.
The photo above was taken near the Canadian River in the eastern part of the Texas Panhandle. We are just coming to the end of its season. It is a great time to gather seeds in order to establish new colonies of them.
According to The Tulsa World, the following is the legend of the Indian Blanket.
"There once lived an old Indian blanket maker," he said, "whose talent for weaving gorgeous blankets was greatly admired among Great Plains Indians. Indians would travel many miles to trade for one of his colorful blankets richly woven in patterns of red and yellow.
"When the old blanket maker realized that his time was short, he began weaving his own burial blanket. When he died his family lovingly wrapped him in the blanket, which was his gift to the Great Spirit.
"The Great Spirit was pleased with the gift, but saddened that only those in the Happy Hunting Grounds would be able to appreciate the blanket maker's colorful creation. He decided, therefore, to give the beautiful gift back to those that the old Indian had left behind.
"The following spring gorgeous wildflowers bearing the same colors and design as the old Indian's blanket appeared in profusion over the blanket maker's grave.
The lovely flowers (Blanket Flowers) quickly spread across the plains for all to enjoy."
Sunday, June 14, 2009
Trust, Water and Government
Storms once again rumbled across the Southern Plains today. They have brought much in the way of promise but delivered little to my little corner of the world. The rains to the east have been a blessing to others.This morning our pastor used rain in an illustration. I wish that I had made notes because now I struggle to remember it. I do recall that if a rancher receives a 1 inch rainfall on a section of land (1 square mile or 640 acres), he would receive a total of about 17,378,560 gallons of water. If you owned a home on 1 acre of land, 1 inch of rain would equal about 27,154 gallons of water.
Now, I don't know about you, but I know that my water bill each month -- especially in the summer -- can be significant. I am fortunate that I live in the country and have well water which basically costs the electricity to pump it and the amortized investment in the well and pump along with the average annual repair bill. It is still less than the cost of city water.
I live in an area with about 18 inches of average annual rainfall. I have 4 acres of land. That calculates to 1,955,088 gallons of water that I receive each year on my small acreage. I live approximately 550 miles from the Gulf of Mexico -- the nearest ocean. Our rainfall is typically a function of moisture from the Gulf meeting a cold front coming in from the north.
The average cost of tap water in the U.S. is approximately $1.50/1000 gallons. My expected annual rainfall of 1,955,088 gallons of water would cost me around $2,932 if delivered from my tap at the U.S. average cost. If you considered the fact that the water likely came from the Gulf of Mexico and was purified along the way, you would need to add the cost of a filtration system, a desalinization plant and transportation costs. I won't begin to guess what all of that would cost. The transportation alone is enormous.
The thing that interests me most though, is that God does all of that for free. I wonder then why it is that we trust our government for all of the wonderful services that we enjoy and pay exorbitant prices for them when God can do such amazing things for free....
Maybe instead of putting our trust in the government we should put it in God.
Thursday, June 11, 2009
The Harem
The Harem
Quality is the name of the game
For purebred cattle herds
So no expense is spared acquiring genes.
They arrive in tanks of nitrogen
In something we call straws
And delivered in a way that seems obscene.
It is the most efficent way
For improving of the herd
Because the best blood is often far away
So modern technology
Has taken the place
Of the purebred herd bulls today.
However, there are those
Among the lucky few
Who don't face humiliation in a cone
They get to roam the pasture
With the chosen of the crop;
They're like a king who sits upon a throne.
With their harem on display
They stand by the road all day
With an attitude of, "Hey, you -- look at me!"
You know it's just their job --
Passing traits on to the mob --
And it's just the way that it was meant to be!
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
Fort Williams -- Glasgow, KY
Last week in my Kentucky travels with Neal Odom, we came across Fort Williams in Glasgow. At first glance it appears to be merely a well-tended hill. However, it was the site of a Civil War battle.
Below are photos of the plaques describing the situation, the people and the battle. You can click on the images for a larger view.
The 6-pounder canon below overlooks the cemetery which contains a number of markers honoring individuals who were involved in the battle. The obelisk just to the left of the barrel is a monument to General Joseph H. Lewis, Commander of the Orphan Brigade which defended this site.
As we walked about the hill, it was interesting to note the placement of the artillery pieces. The hill was well defended from all but one approach.
The fortification consists of an earth berm supported by planking on the inside of the wall. A number of gun ports were cut through the bank and stabilized with planking.
Fort Williams was named for General Thomas Williams.
Below are photos of the plaques describing the situation, the people and the battle. You can click on the images for a larger view.
The 6-pounder canon below overlooks the cemetery which contains a number of markers honoring individuals who were involved in the battle. The obelisk just to the left of the barrel is a monument to General Joseph H. Lewis, Commander of the Orphan Brigade which defended this site.
As we walked about the hill, it was interesting to note the placement of the artillery pieces. The hill was well defended from all but one approach.
The fortification consists of an earth berm supported by planking on the inside of the wall. A number of gun ports were cut through the bank and stabilized with planking.
Fort Williams was named for General Thomas Williams.
Monday, June 8, 2009
A Detour on the Bourbon Trail
Last week's travels once again were in Kentucky. Neal Odom and I were traveling together making sales calls in the Central and East Central part of the state. One afternoon we found ourselves near the little town of Loretto and decided to drop in on one of the state's historical sites.
From the open vats, the slurry is then pumped to a 5-story tall copper distillation column. This is where the 12% alcohol slurry is distilled to a higher concentration. The distillation column sits to the right of the tanks in the photo above. Most of it is out of sight as it goes up through the floors of the Still House.
The distilled liquor is further refined and the proper amount of water is added to reach the final "proof" for the fresh bourbon. It is perfectly clear until aged in specially made white-oak barrels which are seen above. There are numerous warehouses storing the barrels of liquor in various stages of aging.
The entrance to the Still Room can be seen above. The first site is of the copper tanks where the distilled product goes.
The first step in creating Maker's Mark is to run the carefully selected grains through a roller mill. Then, the crushed grains are added to a pressurized wash tub which is seen above. This begins the process of converting the sugars and starches to alcohol.
From the pressurized tanks, the slurry of grains is then transferred to the open wooden vats seen above. This is where the first fermentation occurs. It is interesting to see the bubbles forming on top of the slurry from the gases produced in the fermentation process. Each batch contains a small amount of the previous batch which acts as "seed" for the new liquor.
From the open vats, the slurry is then pumped to a 5-story tall copper distillation column. This is where the 12% alcohol slurry is distilled to a higher concentration. The distillation column sits to the right of the tanks in the photo above. Most of it is out of sight as it goes up through the floors of the Still House.
The distilled liquor is further refined and the proper amount of water is added to reach the final "proof" for the fresh bourbon. It is perfectly clear until aged in specially made white-oak barrels which are seen above. There are numerous warehouses storing the barrels of liquor in various stages of aging.
Today, the finished product is bottled on site in the signature bottle dipped in red wax. In the earliest days, it was transported by wagon.
To learn more about the little distillery at Loretto, Kentucky, go to the Maker's Mark website linked here (warning, you must be 21 to enter).
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