Fees. I have never been a fan of fees. Bank fees. CRV fees. Toll fees.
But, a church fee? Now, that's a new one!
Here's the background -
I am a co-captain of a team for the American Cancer Society's Relay for Life in our town. I love relay, I love what relay represents, relay is in my blood. And I think it is safe to say that the church team that I am co-captain of, agrees with me, because we have been named the top third fundraiser for the overall event two years running. God is good!
Last season, the committee team captain meetings and relay committee meetings were held at another church, and the meeting room was up a flight of pretty steep stairs. Every meeting I would notice the strain some people had of getting up and down those stairs, either due to age, or disability, or even because they have cancer.
Because of this I was prompted to suggest that the meetings be moved to my church, where we have no stairs.
The suggested was immediately accepted by the planning committee and I filled out a church facility use form asking final permission from the trustees to use the building for the 2012 season.
Four weeks later I get news from the trustees that the request had been approved.
Eight weeks later, which happened to be last night, I get the word that the trustees are looking for some sort of "donation" from the relay to cover costs of use of facility.
Now, before you go on thinking this is fair, let me remind you that this type of "donation" has never been seen before. No other group to my knowledge has been asked for such a thing. Especially not a non-profit.
When I heard of this, I was pissed.
I felt the water in my eyes begin to boil.
Is the church strapped for cash you may ask?
Well, considering that at the end of 2011, the church had a $30,000 surplus of funds, making a profit, which is not allowed in a non-profit church. So, to answer that questions. I. Think. Not.
So why the fee?
I really have no idea.
The Relay for Life is a church supported mission. It has been for years. And I think it is a great honor to host such a community event, not only to support the cause, but also to get people into the church walls that probably would not otherwise.
It is still up in the air how my fellow co-captain and myself will pay the $180 donation. I suggested we write a church check. Ha.
But, in the end, what I really think I am upset about, is knowing that the church is more than capable to pay the utility fees in the first place, so why charge a fee for other non-profit use?
Money is the root of all evil. And that is no exception in this situation either.
Thursday, January 19, 2012
Tuesday, January 17, 2012
Movie Night
I recently watched To Save A Life with my youth groups.
It was directed by the same people who came out with Fire Proof, several months earlier.
To Save A Life is a movie about a high school student who commits suicide and then the movie plays out the aftermath of the student's death through the lives of the people who could have stopped it.
But, can you ever really stop a person from committing suicide?
In college many years ago, I remember writing a paper regarding the effects of a person who is at risk for such a thing, and I got marked down because I kept referring to this person as "committing suicide." The professor wrote in huge red ink that I should refer to this as simply "suicided" which was the correct term.
Whatever dude. Committing suicide rolls off the tongue better than suicided. "A person who has suicided" doesn't work...
Anyway, back to my original though....can you ever really stop a person from committing suicide?
The movie suggested that yes you can. If you only acknowledged the person's presence or became a better friend to him or her.
But is this really true?
I have never had someone commit suicide that I known personally, but I know people who have. And I would hate to believe that their friendships are not worth living for.
Depression is a clinical disease. Just like cancer. Just like diabetes. And we all know that relationships cannot cure people from cancer or diabetes. So are we naive to think that relationships can cure depression?
I am not too sure.
But, can relationships with people help seek out the signs of depression and determine the people who are considering suicide, enough so to intervene?
I would like to hope so.
It was directed by the same people who came out with Fire Proof, several months earlier.
To Save A Life is a movie about a high school student who commits suicide and then the movie plays out the aftermath of the student's death through the lives of the people who could have stopped it.
But, can you ever really stop a person from committing suicide?
In college many years ago, I remember writing a paper regarding the effects of a person who is at risk for such a thing, and I got marked down because I kept referring to this person as "committing suicide." The professor wrote in huge red ink that I should refer to this as simply "suicided" which was the correct term.
Whatever dude. Committing suicide rolls off the tongue better than suicided. "A person who has suicided" doesn't work...
Anyway, back to my original though....can you ever really stop a person from committing suicide?
The movie suggested that yes you can. If you only acknowledged the person's presence or became a better friend to him or her.
But is this really true?
I have never had someone commit suicide that I known personally, but I know people who have. And I would hate to believe that their friendships are not worth living for.
Depression is a clinical disease. Just like cancer. Just like diabetes. And we all know that relationships cannot cure people from cancer or diabetes. So are we naive to think that relationships can cure depression?
I am not too sure.
But, can relationships with people help seek out the signs of depression and determine the people who are considering suicide, enough so to intervene?
I would like to hope so.
MLK
The Martin Luther King Jr. holiday was celebrated yesterday.
Did you do anything for it?
I didn't. I spent it being super lazy watching TV and napping between shows. Actually, I think I did do one load of laundry. (Yay me!)
Last Sunday at church my dad was the guest speaker. He has spoken several times at the pulpit, so this was no surprise to me.
But what was a surprise was that he decided to use Martin Luther King Jr.'s speeches as a base for his sermon. (Really, a total shock if you know my dad - he almost never uses people outside of the Bible in his sermons.)
After the service I went and spoke with a lady, probably in her forties, about something else and we got on the subject of dad's sermon.
I don't think she really liked it. But, what struck me, was that she decided to say,
"Well, you know you are setting yourself up for failure when you open by saying you are channeling Martin Luther King Jr. through his own speeches."
She continued,
"At our last church, our pastor was African American, and he told us that he would never even do that - wouldn't even try to."
Ok - here it goes - two things -
ONE What does the color of your skin have anything to do with whom you chose to find inspiration from in your speech? Not even your old black pastor would channel MLK Jr? Really? Doesn't that statement just go against everything Martin was trying to speak out against?
And, TWO What is so wrong with following or using or being inspired from Martin Luther's speeches? Is Martin Luther that untouchable? No one can size up to his speeches - or no one can come close to summarizing them?
"You set yourself up for failure". What does that mean?
Martin Luther, as great, and as wonderful, as he was, was just a human. Just a human like you and me. He was so great because he allowed God to be that great. He himself would be nothing without allowing God's light to shine through him.
It amazes me how some continue to not see that to God be the glory, in all things, in all people. Period. God makes people shine. Not the other way around.
I think you set yourself up for success when you channel great Christians like Martin Luther into your sermons and speeches. And only imagine what would come about, when you channel Christ in them as well.
Did you do anything for it?
I didn't. I spent it being super lazy watching TV and napping between shows. Actually, I think I did do one load of laundry. (Yay me!)
Last Sunday at church my dad was the guest speaker. He has spoken several times at the pulpit, so this was no surprise to me.
But what was a surprise was that he decided to use Martin Luther King Jr.'s speeches as a base for his sermon. (Really, a total shock if you know my dad - he almost never uses people outside of the Bible in his sermons.)
After the service I went and spoke with a lady, probably in her forties, about something else and we got on the subject of dad's sermon.
I don't think she really liked it. But, what struck me, was that she decided to say,
"Well, you know you are setting yourself up for failure when you open by saying you are channeling Martin Luther King Jr. through his own speeches."
She continued,
"At our last church, our pastor was African American, and he told us that he would never even do that - wouldn't even try to."
Ok - here it goes - two things -
ONE What does the color of your skin have anything to do with whom you chose to find inspiration from in your speech? Not even your old black pastor would channel MLK Jr? Really? Doesn't that statement just go against everything Martin was trying to speak out against?
And, TWO What is so wrong with following or using or being inspired from Martin Luther's speeches? Is Martin Luther that untouchable? No one can size up to his speeches - or no one can come close to summarizing them?
"You set yourself up for failure". What does that mean?
Martin Luther, as great, and as wonderful, as he was, was just a human. Just a human like you and me. He was so great because he allowed God to be that great. He himself would be nothing without allowing God's light to shine through him.
It amazes me how some continue to not see that to God be the glory, in all things, in all people. Period. God makes people shine. Not the other way around.
I think you set yourself up for success when you channel great Christians like Martin Luther into your sermons and speeches. And only imagine what would come about, when you channel Christ in them as well.
The Pilot Seat
Today in the Mothers of Preschool mothering seminar that I help to lead, our book discussion chapter was concerning self control. How you keep your self control. How you lose it. How you teach your children about it. And so on.
A lot of times people mistake self control for determination, inspiration, or even willingness.
But, to me, self control is just that. Control over my life, and how I go about governing that control, well, myself. Control can also be seen as power. Power is of course, the root of being. You don't have any gas in your car, there is no power. You don't have any self control in your body, there is no power.
I really don't agree with the term "self" control. As Christians, we are taught that we are to relinquish our power, our self control, over to God, for God to power and control. So, in a sense, do Christians have, self control at all?
God control is more like it.
When you proclaim that you have "self" control are you going against God? You are not putting God first? You are not acknowledging his power in your life after all. You are acknowledging your own. Which in fact, is not possible, without him.
Ever seen a bumper sticker that says, "God is my co-pilot"? Living on a Navy base with lots of fly boys (and girls) I see this bumper sticker a lot.
This term is a lot like proclaiming you have self control.
You see. A co-pilot shares equal control, equal power, right? Your husband could be your co-pilot. You could share equal power with him. But you can never, never, ever, share power with God. Not even just a little bit.
If you think that God is your co-pilot. You need to think again.
You can never have God as your co-pilot, or co-anything, because why? You cannot share power with God. You just can't do it.
And you know, you don't need to share power with God.
Believing in him gives you the ability to know that you are saved from having to be in control. God has stepped into your life to do that part for you. A what does he ask for in return? To follow him. Not help chart the course.
Just follow.
So instead of "God's my co-pilot" say "God is my pilot, and I am just along for the ride!"
A lot of times people mistake self control for determination, inspiration, or even willingness.
But, to me, self control is just that. Control over my life, and how I go about governing that control, well, myself. Control can also be seen as power. Power is of course, the root of being. You don't have any gas in your car, there is no power. You don't have any self control in your body, there is no power.
I really don't agree with the term "self" control. As Christians, we are taught that we are to relinquish our power, our self control, over to God, for God to power and control. So, in a sense, do Christians have, self control at all?
God control is more like it.
When you proclaim that you have "self" control are you going against God? You are not putting God first? You are not acknowledging his power in your life after all. You are acknowledging your own. Which in fact, is not possible, without him.
Ever seen a bumper sticker that says, "God is my co-pilot"? Living on a Navy base with lots of fly boys (and girls) I see this bumper sticker a lot.
This term is a lot like proclaiming you have self control.
You see. A co-pilot shares equal control, equal power, right? Your husband could be your co-pilot. You could share equal power with him. But you can never, never, ever, share power with God. Not even just a little bit.
If you think that God is your co-pilot. You need to think again.
You can never have God as your co-pilot, or co-anything, because why? You cannot share power with God. You just can't do it.
And you know, you don't need to share power with God.
Believing in him gives you the ability to know that you are saved from having to be in control. God has stepped into your life to do that part for you. A what does he ask for in return? To follow him. Not help chart the course.
Just follow.
So instead of "God's my co-pilot" say "God is my pilot, and I am just along for the ride!"
Thursday, January 12, 2012
Self Esteem To Self Steaming
Facebook is great. Facebook is good. I enjoy Facebook. Reading what all my friends and family are up to. Knowing when its people's birthdays. Looking at photos of babies. Good stuff.
One obviously bad thing about Facebook?
The ability for people to hide behind their computer screens and to lash out against the world around them because, "That's my right."
Really? That's your right to act a total fool on the web?
Thank goodness Facebook has a new feature where you can hide a friend's posts from your screen. The only way you can see his or her posts is if you actually, intentionally, go stalk the page.
Recently I have used such a feature for one of my friends.
And, not seeing all two billion of this friend's posts per day on my main dashboard for Facebook, I decided to intentionally go to that person's page and see what was up.
What was up?
Total chaos.
This friend was defending his/her beliefs with grinding teeth. You could tell that the letters on the screen were punched into the keyboard with heavy fists instead of light fingertips.
Just ridiculous.
In real life, you know, off Facebook and face-to-face, this person is quiet, no opinions, no emotions. So where is this ugly online hate of all things coming from? The heat of the computer battery or something?
This friend keeps putting in the posts that he/she has great self esteem. But I would like to think that it is more self steam where he/she has great self steam to let off.
People with great self esteem, know not to get all worked up over a computer screen.
People with great self steam - not so much.
One obviously bad thing about Facebook?
The ability for people to hide behind their computer screens and to lash out against the world around them because, "That's my right."
Really? That's your right to act a total fool on the web?
Thank goodness Facebook has a new feature where you can hide a friend's posts from your screen. The only way you can see his or her posts is if you actually, intentionally, go stalk the page.
Recently I have used such a feature for one of my friends.
And, not seeing all two billion of this friend's posts per day on my main dashboard for Facebook, I decided to intentionally go to that person's page and see what was up.
What was up?
Total chaos.
This friend was defending his/her beliefs with grinding teeth. You could tell that the letters on the screen were punched into the keyboard with heavy fists instead of light fingertips.
Just ridiculous.
In real life, you know, off Facebook and face-to-face, this person is quiet, no opinions, no emotions. So where is this ugly online hate of all things coming from? The heat of the computer battery or something?
This friend keeps putting in the posts that he/she has great self esteem. But I would like to think that it is more self steam where he/she has great self steam to let off.
People with great self esteem, know not to get all worked up over a computer screen.
People with great self steam - not so much.
A Little Too Early Maybe?
It's not even a month after Christmas has passed and I have already begun shopping for Christmas 2012...I do so confess.
I mean, yes, I have been known to have my Christmas shopping done and over with even before Halloween some years, but to my knowledge, I usually have never begun shopping in January.
It's sick, right?
But, I can't help myself. I used my Old Navy Visa card so much during the holiday season that I received lots of "free" spending cash that expires very soon. So, really, I am being a smart shopper and not using that "free" money on myself, but on other people.
Chu ching!
Last year, ok, a month ago, that sounds a littler closer, my husband and I spent almost $800 on Christmas presents on our families. I think that's a little ridiculous. Especially considering that we do not have our own children.
I decided to write out everyone who we buy presents for, and the list makes me laugh. On my husband's side of the family, we shop for four people. That's it. Four.
And on my side of the family, we shop for, wait for it, wait for it, thirteen people!
Of course, yet again, I am root of this problem, not my husband.
So that's seventeen people that we shop for, mostly from my side of the family, but a big family is a happy family after all, right?? We spent $800 on them total, so that's roughly $50 a person, average.
This year I am determined to have our Christmas spending under $500. I think that's a great place to start. But, I will not be a "cheap" giver and buy crappy stuff and/or less presents for people, but instead, be a smart giver this year and watch for sales and use my "free" money back promotions from places on gifts instead of myself. Because come on, do I really need another shirt? I don't wear all the shirts I already have.
So, I guess to answer my own question, no, it's not too early to start shopping for Christmas 2012. Because I refuse to overspend on gifts because I did not plan ahead.
I mean, yes, I have been known to have my Christmas shopping done and over with even before Halloween some years, but to my knowledge, I usually have never begun shopping in January.
It's sick, right?
But, I can't help myself. I used my Old Navy Visa card so much during the holiday season that I received lots of "free" spending cash that expires very soon. So, really, I am being a smart shopper and not using that "free" money on myself, but on other people.
Chu ching!
Last year, ok, a month ago, that sounds a littler closer, my husband and I spent almost $800 on Christmas presents on our families. I think that's a little ridiculous. Especially considering that we do not have our own children.
I decided to write out everyone who we buy presents for, and the list makes me laugh. On my husband's side of the family, we shop for four people. That's it. Four.
And on my side of the family, we shop for, wait for it, wait for it, thirteen people!
Of course, yet again, I am root of this problem, not my husband.
So that's seventeen people that we shop for, mostly from my side of the family, but a big family is a happy family after all, right?? We spent $800 on them total, so that's roughly $50 a person, average.
This year I am determined to have our Christmas spending under $500. I think that's a great place to start. But, I will not be a "cheap" giver and buy crappy stuff and/or less presents for people, but instead, be a smart giver this year and watch for sales and use my "free" money back promotions from places on gifts instead of myself. Because come on, do I really need another shirt? I don't wear all the shirts I already have.
So, I guess to answer my own question, no, it's not too early to start shopping for Christmas 2012. Because I refuse to overspend on gifts because I did not plan ahead.
Thursday, January 5, 2012
The Mormon Experiment?
The Mormon faith is interesting. Very interesting. John Smith, who I thought was the dude who loathed Pocahontas/but whatever, found these great gold plates hidden in the middle of no where's land, and decided to add a sequel to the greatest book of all, the Bible.
I have nothing against people who are Mormon. In fact, I practically grew up with a Mormon family when I was in elementary school. And, too, Mormons are Christians, yes, a separate branch of the great oak tree of Christianity, but still on the same tree - as they believe Jesus is God's son.
In fact, Mormons are probably more Christian than "born again" Christians are...
In my youth groups, my kids always tell me how they can always spot Mormons within the high school crowd. They are wearing modest clothing, and not drinking energy drinks, and aren't cussing or fonding their friends, and get to class on time. Shock and ahh! I just laugh and tell them that that behavior is really what THEY are suppose to be doing too!!!
I recently found the BYU channel on our DirectTV. Half of the time it shows programming promoting the Mormon faith, but the other half also includes us "regular" folk in the conversation.
Like for instance, The Food Nanny.
This is a delightful show where Liz Edmunds goes into people's homes and helps them figure out how to have successful dinners together as a family each night. In fact, she termed this, la vita vera - the good life!
She has this idea that families can make dinner simple to plan, prepare, and share by using her "nanny plan" which is a two week menu planner. Very clever idea I think. Get it for free at http://thefoodnanny.org/.
Anyway, through watching several of her shows, I got interested in how Mormons shop. Now, for some of you, you may think, well Amy, they shop like the rest of us. But, no, not really, because it is a part of the Mormon faith to shop differently, and to be prepared for emergencies, and in most cases, have a year's supply of food on hand at all times.
Yup - a whole freakin' year of food!
This not only is to be prepared for an extreme emergency situation, but also to be prepared for unplanned things like unemployment or sickness.
The idea is to have a year's worth of food, along with a three month supply of emergency food, plus the food that you would eat on a regular day.
That's a crap ton of food! (Well, only if processed, he he.)
The year's worth of food, to my understanding, is food that is mostly canned or in grain form, and can keep for a long time. But, instead of never touching it, like your 3-month emergency food supply, you eat it along with your regular food and restock as necessary. That way nothing gets expired, but you still have your year supply.
In fact, there are Mormon specific stores to help Mormons shop for their food supplies. Check this one out for fun, http://www.shelfreliance.com/. But, in my research of finding the cheapest emergency food out there to purchase, Mormon specific stores were on the higher end, so I encourage you to shop around.
Actually, if you want a really good deal on bulk food, you should start with ex-Mormons. I found this site of a couple who had left the church and its beliefs and was looking to unload - their load - http://www.exmormon.org/mormon/mormon324.htm. There are lots of sites like this on web.
According to the Child Protective Services of California, a family is in the clear if they produce another food for all the children in the house to eat for three days (coincidence from last post's 72 hour kits??). If CPS comes into your home and finds less than three days worth of food for your children, you could be in lots of trouble. But, I think you would make CPS's day if when they came into your home in search of food and found a year and three months supply, PLUS your regular stocked pantry.
What a go getter!
But, as for me, I think I will keep to just stocking up on items when they are on really good sales, and forget about trying to maintain a pantry to feed for a year.
Don't even get me started on where I would put all that food...
I have nothing against people who are Mormon. In fact, I practically grew up with a Mormon family when I was in elementary school. And, too, Mormons are Christians, yes, a separate branch of the great oak tree of Christianity, but still on the same tree - as they believe Jesus is God's son.
In fact, Mormons are probably more Christian than "born again" Christians are...
In my youth groups, my kids always tell me how they can always spot Mormons within the high school crowd. They are wearing modest clothing, and not drinking energy drinks, and aren't cussing or fonding their friends, and get to class on time. Shock and ahh! I just laugh and tell them that that behavior is really what THEY are suppose to be doing too!!!
I recently found the BYU channel on our DirectTV. Half of the time it shows programming promoting the Mormon faith, but the other half also includes us "regular" folk in the conversation.
Like for instance, The Food Nanny.
This is a delightful show where Liz Edmunds goes into people's homes and helps them figure out how to have successful dinners together as a family each night. In fact, she termed this, la vita vera - the good life!
She has this idea that families can make dinner simple to plan, prepare, and share by using her "nanny plan" which is a two week menu planner. Very clever idea I think. Get it for free at http://thefoodnanny.org/.
Anyway, through watching several of her shows, I got interested in how Mormons shop. Now, for some of you, you may think, well Amy, they shop like the rest of us. But, no, not really, because it is a part of the Mormon faith to shop differently, and to be prepared for emergencies, and in most cases, have a year's supply of food on hand at all times.
Yup - a whole freakin' year of food!
This not only is to be prepared for an extreme emergency situation, but also to be prepared for unplanned things like unemployment or sickness.
The idea is to have a year's worth of food, along with a three month supply of emergency food, plus the food that you would eat on a regular day.
That's a crap ton of food! (Well, only if processed, he he.)
The year's worth of food, to my understanding, is food that is mostly canned or in grain form, and can keep for a long time. But, instead of never touching it, like your 3-month emergency food supply, you eat it along with your regular food and restock as necessary. That way nothing gets expired, but you still have your year supply.
In fact, there are Mormon specific stores to help Mormons shop for their food supplies. Check this one out for fun, http://www.shelfreliance.com/. But, in my research of finding the cheapest emergency food out there to purchase, Mormon specific stores were on the higher end, so I encourage you to shop around.
Actually, if you want a really good deal on bulk food, you should start with ex-Mormons. I found this site of a couple who had left the church and its beliefs and was looking to unload - their load - http://www.exmormon.org/mormon/mormon324.htm. There are lots of sites like this on web.
According to the Child Protective Services of California, a family is in the clear if they produce another food for all the children in the house to eat for three days (coincidence from last post's 72 hour kits??). If CPS comes into your home and finds less than three days worth of food for your children, you could be in lots of trouble. But, I think you would make CPS's day if when they came into your home in search of food and found a year and three months supply, PLUS your regular stocked pantry.
What a go getter!
But, as for me, I think I will keep to just stocking up on items when they are on really good sales, and forget about trying to maintain a pantry to feed for a year.
Don't even get me started on where I would put all that food...
A Toast To The End
Doom's Day is coming.
Well, at least they say it is.
Ancient Mayan and Aztec societies have predicted the end of the world thousands of years ago, and that day happens to fall on the winter solstice of this new year. Other prophesies have also predicted the fall of the earth during this year too.
Actually, on New Year's Eve, my husband and I toasted to the end of the world. Ha ha
The world has been predicted to end on other days, too, but those clearly weren't real, well, because we are all still here.
The latest one was when the year 2000 rolled around. (Gonna Party like it's 19 - 99, ring any bells?)
Engineers and computer geeks predicted that when the clock stuck midnight on December 31, 19 - 99 (sorry, I can't help myself!) that all the world's computers would fail because they would not be able to transfer their software to read "2000".
But, alas, all the computers complied. And now twelve years later, we are back at square one, with our doom's day clock back on countdown watch.
When I was younger, I thought that the reason the Aztecs came up with 12-21-12 was because they all died out before they could create another cute kitty calendar for 2013. However, later, I learn that the Aztec calendar isn't like the calendars that we commonly use today, and instead, has the capability to go on forever...but it doesn't.
Christian leaders are gearing up for the questions that will come from their parishioners regarding this prediction. First, let me say that the Bible does not predict the end of the world on December 21, 2012, in fact, it doesn't give any specific date at all. Jesus says that no one, not even him, knows when this will happen, only God the Father knows.
So if Jesus is out of the loop, I guess I don't mind being either.
My man, Paul the Apostle, thought he knew that the end of the world was near during his lifetime. (Needless to say, the end of the world was near, but just for him.) In fact, he went around teaching that women shouldn't even try to bare fruit (eerr children) because the end of the world was that close.
But, you know, if Jesus says even he is out of the loop on this one, you can imagine that most likely, Paul would be too.
Some in the scientific committee say that a solar storm or huge rock is headed in our direction in late 2012. But, as Nasa has explained in detail, no such "scientific" prediction is based in reality. Actually, check this article out for yourself, it's really good, http://www.nasa.gov/topics/earth/features/2012.html. It debunks the myths of polar switches and huge rocks with earth's name on it flying toward us.
One thing I am believing in all of this?
The reality that myself and my household need to be prepared for an emergency.
I mean think about it. If one tiny thing interrupts the world as I know it, the small dessert town where I live will be affected. If a solar flare did strike one of our space satellites, taking down communication and computers, what would we do?
Our cars wouldn't work. Our lights wouldn't work. Our hearts and coolers wouldn't work. No cell phones. We would be back to the pioneer days, for who knows how long.
In December of 2011 Los Angeles found themselves smack in the middle of one of the worst wind storms the city has ever seen. Huge trees uprooted and fell onto cars and houses, and broke up sidewalks. Houses had windows crack and roofs blew off. Power lines were taken down.
Over 500,000 people were without power...For over five days!
Can you believe that? Los Angeles, one of the most money making cities in the world, and half a million residences were without power/computers for almost a freakin' week.
That is so hard to believe.
Could you imagine something happening like this on a larger scale? On a much larger scale?
It would takes weeks, if not months, to reconnect power.
Thankfully, due to Hurricane Katrina, counties and cities throughout the US are considering how best to inform the general public of possible emergency situations. Before, word would come out through the television or radio. But now, in some places, you can register your cell phone number or your email address to be contacted in such a situation. Google if your county has such a thing. For LA county, the website is http://portal.lacounty.gov/wps/portal/alertla.
In theory, this is a great step. But in reality, what if we are depending too much on technology? What if broad band communication is taken out way before the possibility of an emergency occurs?
This is when your boy scout instincts need to come in.
Being prepared will save your life, not to mention your sanity.
When I was 13, we had a pretty bad earthquake in my hometown and the power went out. My parents didn't have an emergency supply kit for us, so I went down to the local market with my dad to purchase bottled water and food.
It looked like December 21, 2012. snicker sinker
By the time we got to the market, we discovered that we were not the only ones who weren't prepared. The shelves were empty. People were frantic. Workers looked scared.
In fact, it is reported that grocery stores only carry enough supplies in the event of a power outage to last two hours. Mostly because back up generators only last that long, but also because the stores would most likely be sold out by the time too.
So what is a good boy scout imitator to do?
Be prepared.
When trying to survive after a disaster, or power outage, or solar flare, or heck, even the end times, you really should be prepared.
Living in earthquake country I finally got my act together and put an emergency kit together for my family. I did all kinds of research on what I should get and how I should pack it.
The most common, baby step, basic, run of the mill emergency kit that you can put together is what is a called a 72-hour kit. This kit is said to get you through the first 3 days in an utmost emergency situation.
Run of the mill is more my style anyway, so I decided just to do that one.
Through Amazon I purchased emergency water pouches, food bars, and fire starters to last me and my entire household 72 hours. Also, being in the desert, I bought more water pouches than suggested because of the hotter climate. I then separated the appropriate amount of food and water into three backpacks (we have three people at home), because of course it was cheaper to purchase these items in bulk then individual. Also in the backpacks I put a change of bright colored clothing, so we become easier to see out in the elements, a pair of walking shoes (not flip flops), flashlights with extra batteries, a blanket for shelter or warmth, a basic first aid kit, a copy of our house key, and toilet paper. That's it. Very basic. And it's portable, so in reality, you could take it with you when you are away from home. Ya, it wasn't cheap. It cost probably a little over $100 for three people. But, the emergency water and food won't expire until late 2016 - so I don't have to purchase these items again for a long time (and it gets through past December, ha ha).
But what does our faith provide us when facing possible end times?
Blessed assurance.
For I know the plans I have for you, says our Father Above, plans to prosper you and not harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." (Jeremiah 29:11)
At the start of 2012, I began reading a daily devotional from Sarah Young entitled, Jesus Calling. I heard about it from a local Christian radio station who were reading in 2011.
Wouldn't you know, that the one devotion for December 21 reads, "My plan for your life is unfolding before you. Do not fear your weakness, for its is the stage on which My power and glory perform most brilliantly."
In times like these, God proves over and over again to be our greatest strength.
Well, at least they say it is.
Ancient Mayan and Aztec societies have predicted the end of the world thousands of years ago, and that day happens to fall on the winter solstice of this new year. Other prophesies have also predicted the fall of the earth during this year too.
Actually, on New Year's Eve, my husband and I toasted to the end of the world. Ha ha
The world has been predicted to end on other days, too, but those clearly weren't real, well, because we are all still here.
The latest one was when the year 2000 rolled around. (Gonna Party like it's 19 - 99, ring any bells?)
Engineers and computer geeks predicted that when the clock stuck midnight on December 31, 19 - 99 (sorry, I can't help myself!) that all the world's computers would fail because they would not be able to transfer their software to read "2000".
But, alas, all the computers complied. And now twelve years later, we are back at square one, with our doom's day clock back on countdown watch.
When I was younger, I thought that the reason the Aztecs came up with 12-21-12 was because they all died out before they could create another cute kitty calendar for 2013. However, later, I learn that the Aztec calendar isn't like the calendars that we commonly use today, and instead, has the capability to go on forever...but it doesn't.
Christian leaders are gearing up for the questions that will come from their parishioners regarding this prediction. First, let me say that the Bible does not predict the end of the world on December 21, 2012, in fact, it doesn't give any specific date at all. Jesus says that no one, not even him, knows when this will happen, only God the Father knows.
So if Jesus is out of the loop, I guess I don't mind being either.
My man, Paul the Apostle, thought he knew that the end of the world was near during his lifetime. (Needless to say, the end of the world was near, but just for him.) In fact, he went around teaching that women shouldn't even try to bare fruit (eerr children) because the end of the world was that close.
But, you know, if Jesus says even he is out of the loop on this one, you can imagine that most likely, Paul would be too.
Some in the scientific committee say that a solar storm or huge rock is headed in our direction in late 2012. But, as Nasa has explained in detail, no such "scientific" prediction is based in reality. Actually, check this article out for yourself, it's really good, http://www.nasa.gov/topics/earth/features/2012.html. It debunks the myths of polar switches and huge rocks with earth's name on it flying toward us.
One thing I am believing in all of this?
The reality that myself and my household need to be prepared for an emergency.
I mean think about it. If one tiny thing interrupts the world as I know it, the small dessert town where I live will be affected. If a solar flare did strike one of our space satellites, taking down communication and computers, what would we do?
Our cars wouldn't work. Our lights wouldn't work. Our hearts and coolers wouldn't work. No cell phones. We would be back to the pioneer days, for who knows how long.
In December of 2011 Los Angeles found themselves smack in the middle of one of the worst wind storms the city has ever seen. Huge trees uprooted and fell onto cars and houses, and broke up sidewalks. Houses had windows crack and roofs blew off. Power lines were taken down.
Over 500,000 people were without power...For over five days!
Can you believe that? Los Angeles, one of the most money making cities in the world, and half a million residences were without power/computers for almost a freakin' week.
That is so hard to believe.
Could you imagine something happening like this on a larger scale? On a much larger scale?
It would takes weeks, if not months, to reconnect power.
Thankfully, due to Hurricane Katrina, counties and cities throughout the US are considering how best to inform the general public of possible emergency situations. Before, word would come out through the television or radio. But now, in some places, you can register your cell phone number or your email address to be contacted in such a situation. Google if your county has such a thing. For LA county, the website is http://portal.lacounty.gov/wps/portal/alertla.
In theory, this is a great step. But in reality, what if we are depending too much on technology? What if broad band communication is taken out way before the possibility of an emergency occurs?
This is when your boy scout instincts need to come in.
Being prepared will save your life, not to mention your sanity.
When I was 13, we had a pretty bad earthquake in my hometown and the power went out. My parents didn't have an emergency supply kit for us, so I went down to the local market with my dad to purchase bottled water and food.
It looked like December 21, 2012. snicker sinker
By the time we got to the market, we discovered that we were not the only ones who weren't prepared. The shelves were empty. People were frantic. Workers looked scared.
In fact, it is reported that grocery stores only carry enough supplies in the event of a power outage to last two hours. Mostly because back up generators only last that long, but also because the stores would most likely be sold out by the time too.
So what is a good boy scout imitator to do?
Be prepared.
When trying to survive after a disaster, or power outage, or solar flare, or heck, even the end times, you really should be prepared.
Living in earthquake country I finally got my act together and put an emergency kit together for my family. I did all kinds of research on what I should get and how I should pack it.
The most common, baby step, basic, run of the mill emergency kit that you can put together is what is a called a 72-hour kit. This kit is said to get you through the first 3 days in an utmost emergency situation.
Run of the mill is more my style anyway, so I decided just to do that one.
Through Amazon I purchased emergency water pouches, food bars, and fire starters to last me and my entire household 72 hours. Also, being in the desert, I bought more water pouches than suggested because of the hotter climate. I then separated the appropriate amount of food and water into three backpacks (we have three people at home), because of course it was cheaper to purchase these items in bulk then individual. Also in the backpacks I put a change of bright colored clothing, so we become easier to see out in the elements, a pair of walking shoes (not flip flops), flashlights with extra batteries, a blanket for shelter or warmth, a basic first aid kit, a copy of our house key, and toilet paper. That's it. Very basic. And it's portable, so in reality, you could take it with you when you are away from home. Ya, it wasn't cheap. It cost probably a little over $100 for three people. But, the emergency water and food won't expire until late 2016 - so I don't have to purchase these items again for a long time (and it gets through past December, ha ha).
But what does our faith provide us when facing possible end times?
Blessed assurance.
For I know the plans I have for you, says our Father Above, plans to prosper you and not harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." (Jeremiah 29:11)
At the start of 2012, I began reading a daily devotional from Sarah Young entitled, Jesus Calling. I heard about it from a local Christian radio station who were reading in 2011.
Wouldn't you know, that the one devotion for December 21 reads, "My plan for your life is unfolding before you. Do not fear your weakness, for its is the stage on which My power and glory perform most brilliantly."
In times like these, God proves over and over again to be our greatest strength.
Wednesday, January 4, 2012
A Family Not Birthed
Ever since I was little I wanted to adopt a child.
I would even practice by having my Barbie mom adopt fellow Barbie's into her Barbie house to live.
The idea of producing your own children, when there are so many children already here that are in desperate need of your love and affection too, seems to me to be, somewhat, selfish.
Yes, a mom who is 23 with six children of her own, all with different fathers, and having no money, and is forced to live on the streets with her children, is a disgrace. But, that's not the children's fault.
An opportunity arose in the past weeks for my husband and I to consider adopting a small boy from a woman in Mexico City, Mexico. (She's the woman I was describing above.)
My heart jumped at the fact that my childhood dream was coming true, and I would be adopting a child, and not only just a child, but a child who would really benefit from moving into the greatest country on earth and getting off the cold, dirty streets of drug-stricken Mexico.
I told only a few people, and the response was not great. They questioned why my husband and I would consider adopting a child we don't even know his background (medically, emotionally, physically, etc.), and especially why we were adopting now, when we don't even have any children of our own yet.
"Don't you want your first child to actually be yours?"
Many nights I prayed to God for direction and if I should even consider the question above. And I can't really say I have received an answer yet.
After doing some research, I found that adopting child from Mexico is almost as hard as adopting a panda from the moon...only 57 adoptions were granted in 2010 for couples outside of Mexico. And not only do you have to prove to the courts that you are financially able to care for the child the reminder of his life, but you have (and your spouse have) to physically live with the child for a six month period, in the city that the child currently resides, before the adoption is final and you can take the child home with you.
Is that almost impossible or what?
How can one prove financial stability if you and your spouse can't go to work for six whole months?
One might say that this is my answer from God.
But, is it really?
I would even practice by having my Barbie mom adopt fellow Barbie's into her Barbie house to live.
The idea of producing your own children, when there are so many children already here that are in desperate need of your love and affection too, seems to me to be, somewhat, selfish.
Yes, a mom who is 23 with six children of her own, all with different fathers, and having no money, and is forced to live on the streets with her children, is a disgrace. But, that's not the children's fault.
An opportunity arose in the past weeks for my husband and I to consider adopting a small boy from a woman in Mexico City, Mexico. (She's the woman I was describing above.)
My heart jumped at the fact that my childhood dream was coming true, and I would be adopting a child, and not only just a child, but a child who would really benefit from moving into the greatest country on earth and getting off the cold, dirty streets of drug-stricken Mexico.
I told only a few people, and the response was not great. They questioned why my husband and I would consider adopting a child we don't even know his background (medically, emotionally, physically, etc.), and especially why we were adopting now, when we don't even have any children of our own yet.
"Don't you want your first child to actually be yours?"
Many nights I prayed to God for direction and if I should even consider the question above. And I can't really say I have received an answer yet.
After doing some research, I found that adopting child from Mexico is almost as hard as adopting a panda from the moon...only 57 adoptions were granted in 2010 for couples outside of Mexico. And not only do you have to prove to the courts that you are financially able to care for the child the reminder of his life, but you have (and your spouse have) to physically live with the child for a six month period, in the city that the child currently resides, before the adoption is final and you can take the child home with you.
Is that almost impossible or what?
How can one prove financial stability if you and your spouse can't go to work for six whole months?
One might say that this is my answer from God.
But, is it really?
Do What I Say, Not What I Do
Almost six months ago a group of people started opening the church doors to feed the community, for free, every Friday night.
It's name became Upper Room Suppers, or URS. The hope to name this outreach something "Christian-y" was so people not aware of the Christian faith might ask what the name means, and thus opening the door to speak freely about our faith.
The Upper Room of course was used on Maundy Thursday, the day before Jesus' death - what we now refer to as the Last Supper between Jesus and His disciples.
Now, I don't participate every Friday with this mission but I attend at least once a month, speaking to the regulars, and welcoming the first time guests.
Needless to say I have never been approached by anyone regarding the name. But, I still hold out hope.
When the ministry started, there was huge debate among the church keepers of what this ministry, of cooking one meal a week, would do to our church facility usage fees. (Actually, another great concern was that "gangsters" would come eat a free meal and then go around the church campus and break all the windows.)
This debate was so great, that the ministry was put under a probation period by the church keepers, and six or eight months down the line from the first meal served, the Upper Room volunteers would have to "report" to the church keepers over its progress, how many people attend each week, and oh, yeah, the increased usage of the facility.
What I find interesting, is that each Friday, Upper Room requests at least ten volunteers to help run the show - and that's EVERY Friday night, which has been going on for six months now. I am sure you will agree with me that this is a lot of people that come to help and ensure that the ministry runs smoothly.
Wanna guess how many times the so-called "church keepers" have been to help volunteer during the past six months?
Well, you think, lots. Right? Because they were the ones who expressed so much concern over the new ministry.
But, you would be surprised to learn, not one of the keeps have shown up once to volunteer.
And, moreover, not one of the keepers have shown up once to even see what it is all about.
Does this remind you of any other organization? The government maybe? - Implementing so many limits and rules and constraints on a program, but not ever responsible enough to come and witness firsthand what these limits, rules, and constraints have on the actual program itself.
Jesus' Upper Room was also met with limits, rules, and constraints from outside governing Roman forces.
The parody of its name stake food ministry in today's time, is well, just coincidence, I am sure.
It's name became Upper Room Suppers, or URS. The hope to name this outreach something "Christian-y" was so people not aware of the Christian faith might ask what the name means, and thus opening the door to speak freely about our faith.
The Upper Room of course was used on Maundy Thursday, the day before Jesus' death - what we now refer to as the Last Supper between Jesus and His disciples.
Now, I don't participate every Friday with this mission but I attend at least once a month, speaking to the regulars, and welcoming the first time guests.
Needless to say I have never been approached by anyone regarding the name. But, I still hold out hope.
When the ministry started, there was huge debate among the church keepers of what this ministry, of cooking one meal a week, would do to our church facility usage fees. (Actually, another great concern was that "gangsters" would come eat a free meal and then go around the church campus and break all the windows.)
This debate was so great, that the ministry was put under a probation period by the church keepers, and six or eight months down the line from the first meal served, the Upper Room volunteers would have to "report" to the church keepers over its progress, how many people attend each week, and oh, yeah, the increased usage of the facility.
What I find interesting, is that each Friday, Upper Room requests at least ten volunteers to help run the show - and that's EVERY Friday night, which has been going on for six months now. I am sure you will agree with me that this is a lot of people that come to help and ensure that the ministry runs smoothly.
Wanna guess how many times the so-called "church keepers" have been to help volunteer during the past six months?
Well, you think, lots. Right? Because they were the ones who expressed so much concern over the new ministry.
But, you would be surprised to learn, not one of the keeps have shown up once to volunteer.
And, moreover, not one of the keepers have shown up once to even see what it is all about.
Does this remind you of any other organization? The government maybe? - Implementing so many limits and rules and constraints on a program, but not ever responsible enough to come and witness firsthand what these limits, rules, and constraints have on the actual program itself.
Jesus' Upper Room was also met with limits, rules, and constraints from outside governing Roman forces.
The parody of its name stake food ministry in today's time, is well, just coincidence, I am sure.
The Unmarriage Bed
Moving in with your girlfriend without being married, and even without even being engaged - seems to be all the rage these days, well besides planking...
But, really, is this a big deal to me?
No, not really. Doesn't really affect my day-to-day. It's your life.
But, is this a big deal, to God?
The Bible is splashed with scripture that calls for people to abstain from sexual immorality. My man Paul speaks to it at length in his letters to the Church in Corinth. So, ya, I guess it is a big deal to God.
Let marriage be held in honor among all, and let the marriage bed be undefiled, for God will judge the sexually immoral and adulterous. (Hebrews 13:4)
Here for instance, Hebrews teaches us that living together, unmarried, is dishonorable.
That's not very good, not very good at all...
So why are so many people doing it then? Is it easier then getting married and then living together? Is it less stressful? Is the passion more present?
And what about those couples who are living together and are not married and continue to practice their Christian faith, and attend church together?
Are they forgiven?
Well, yes, of course they are forgiven. But, yet another example of a Christian who gives Christianity a bad name.
To be forgiven of sins, to repent, means that you are 1) aware of the wrongdoing and 2) giving your word to try not to keep doing the sin over and over again.
So, to me, couples who are living together, and are not blessed in the Holy Spirit of union, but still continue to live in sin, need to really take a hard look at things and ask themselves, "is it worth it?"
I mean, say it with me, IS IT WORTH IT?
Is living with your girlfriend worth dishonoring God?
Is living with your girlfriend worth mocking your faith since you live in constant sin?
Is living with your girlfriend worth tampering with your future marriage vow to this girl, or another one?
Ugh. These questions make for a pretty rotten unmarriage bed, filled with nasty bed bugs, don't you think?
Living together should always = being married to each. (Did you notice the PERIOD?!)
Anything other than that is just a slap in God's face, and poop on yours.
But, really, is this a big deal to me?
No, not really. Doesn't really affect my day-to-day. It's your life.
But, is this a big deal, to God?
The Bible is splashed with scripture that calls for people to abstain from sexual immorality. My man Paul speaks to it at length in his letters to the Church in Corinth. So, ya, I guess it is a big deal to God.
Let marriage be held in honor among all, and let the marriage bed be undefiled, for God will judge the sexually immoral and adulterous. (Hebrews 13:4)
Here for instance, Hebrews teaches us that living together, unmarried, is dishonorable.
That's not very good, not very good at all...
So why are so many people doing it then? Is it easier then getting married and then living together? Is it less stressful? Is the passion more present?
And what about those couples who are living together and are not married and continue to practice their Christian faith, and attend church together?
Are they forgiven?
Well, yes, of course they are forgiven. But, yet another example of a Christian who gives Christianity a bad name.
To be forgiven of sins, to repent, means that you are 1) aware of the wrongdoing and 2) giving your word to try not to keep doing the sin over and over again.
So, to me, couples who are living together, and are not blessed in the Holy Spirit of union, but still continue to live in sin, need to really take a hard look at things and ask themselves, "is it worth it?"
I mean, say it with me, IS IT WORTH IT?
Is living with your girlfriend worth dishonoring God?
Is living with your girlfriend worth mocking your faith since you live in constant sin?
Is living with your girlfriend worth tampering with your future marriage vow to this girl, or another one?
Ugh. These questions make for a pretty rotten unmarriage bed, filled with nasty bed bugs, don't you think?
Living together should always = being married to each. (Did you notice the PERIOD?!)
Anything other than that is just a slap in God's face, and poop on yours.
When Pigs Fly
I recently have been introduced to a beautiful family from Mexico, fresh from Mexico, like three-month old Americans.
They are so sweet, and so kind, and have such great manners.
They ask for nothing and are embarrassed when you even offer to pass them the salt at a community dinner table.
This is the time that I wish I were a millionaire. I could buy them a house. Give them money for food. Pay for the children's college. I would go out of my way to ensure that they were not only safe, but were very happy too.
I am glad that God has put this family in my life.
I recently have been introduced to a woman who has recently moved into town from Trona.
She is not so sweet, not so kind, and doesn't have such great manners.
She asks for everything, and when she gets it, she asks for even more.
This is the time that I wish I were a millionaire. I would buy myself a bigger house. I would eat lobster every night. I would get a PHD and pay for it with cash. I would go out of my way to ensure that I used my money for only myself.
But, I am still glad that God has put this woman in my life.
Because I know that God loves her just the same as he loves me, and that sweet Mexican family. And I need to continue to work on myself so that I too love her, and wish to use my gain for her gain, just like the family who I feel "deserves" it.
They are so sweet, and so kind, and have such great manners.
They ask for nothing and are embarrassed when you even offer to pass them the salt at a community dinner table.
This is the time that I wish I were a millionaire. I could buy them a house. Give them money for food. Pay for the children's college. I would go out of my way to ensure that they were not only safe, but were very happy too.
I am glad that God has put this family in my life.
I recently have been introduced to a woman who has recently moved into town from Trona.
She is not so sweet, not so kind, and doesn't have such great manners.
She asks for everything, and when she gets it, she asks for even more.
This is the time that I wish I were a millionaire. I would buy myself a bigger house. I would eat lobster every night. I would get a PHD and pay for it with cash. I would go out of my way to ensure that I used my money for only myself.
But, I am still glad that God has put this woman in my life.
Because I know that God loves her just the same as he loves me, and that sweet Mexican family. And I need to continue to work on myself so that I too love her, and wish to use my gain for her gain, just like the family who I feel "deserves" it.
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