Have you ever had a feeling of regret?
Caused by pain, death or debt?
How do you cope with such distress?
Without being over laden with stress?
Just lean on the ones who love you the most,
And rely on the Lord the commander of hosts.
It won’t come by muscle or genius or braun,
But with this simple plan, you can never go wrong.
Monday, November 23, 2009
awesome poem.
Once upon a time there was a boy.
Who enjoyed his laser beam toy.
He zapped all his friends,
Made some amends,
And now is a symbol of joy.
Who enjoyed his laser beam toy.
He zapped all his friends,
Made some amends,
And now is a symbol of joy.
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Dress Code
Warning: This blog is just some random thought process I had while sitting in my car.
School. In the last week I’ve seen a minimal amount of my high school classes. I can’t say I’m too disappointed in the fact, mainly because stress levels have depleted. I miss the atmosphere. Somehow, I actually enjoy that place. A small private school that I disagree with on several aspects is missed by me, a somewhat rebellious teenage drummer. Most people when they see me around think, “who’s that long haired punk wearing a white tee, sweat pants, and a bandana around his head? Why does he wear those rings and cross necklace. Is he begging for attention?”
Just the opposite actually! I don’t want attention like most people assume I do. I dress the way I do because of two major reasons: comfort (which is a must) and religious reasons. Most people call the second one false or even just an excuse. These are my reasons.
Comfort. I’m a teenager. I need to feel good, and if sweat pants and a light shirt make me feel better, I’m going to wear it no matter what. I mean, why would I try to look “good” according to the world’s standards and be uncomfortable? I can’t afford the nice expensive clothes so many people wear, so I make do with what I can buy.
Religion. Something tells me most people wouldn’t believe this when they read this, but this is the truth. I’m not trying to be prideful in saying that because that destroys my entire reasoning about this subject. Humility is the entire point of it. Let me explain a little bit. My casual clothing is a constant choice. As many know, the last year I’ve changed from constantly wearing button up shirts into wearing tees and sweats rather than khaki shorts for the most part. I still wear them when it’s hot, but whatever. I wear these clothes because it, in my head, means I’m not trying to be noticed. Yes I know, I love to laugh and that gets me plenty of attention wherever I go. But I don’t want to seem like I’m requiring it. My rings-One is a class ring, which is a reminder for respect. There’s a WWJD inscription underneath the rock, and I see it every time I put it on. The wedding band around my finger is a symbol of celibacy. It shows me that I will eventually marry someone whom I respect more than anyone on the face of the earth, and I want to respect her by not going around sleeping with random girls that I find or have feelings for. The cross necklace was a gift from my dad. It’s a symbol I have that when I put it on in the morning I remember to be a servant of Christ today. My long hair has meaning whether (especially my parents) believe it or not. I have to take a good five minutes in the morning drying my hair. To me it expresses my need of patience with myself and with others. It gives me the feeling of “I don’t have to rush everything. Not everything can be rushed.” I know most think that’s ridiculous, but I’m willing to post it on the internet. It’s not ridiculous to me. The last thing I really have a reason for wearing is the bandana. When I look at myself in the mirror in the morning I see a creation that, even though I may not like, God made and loves to (literally) death. I wear the bandana around my head because it’s my own crown. I wear it because Christ wore the crown of thorns. I’m not a religious nutjob so I don’t own my own thorny cross, but I do wear this bandana for the reason of being Christlike. I’m not a strong believer at this stage of my life and I do need constant reminders. These few constant daily reminders help initiate my day to a good start. I’m not saying I’m righteous for jewelry and a headband, but I’m professing to the world that I want to do a better job.
“6 If you point these things out to the brothers, you will be a good minister of Christ Jesus, brought up in the truths of the faith and of the good teaching that you have followed. 7 Have nothing to do with godless myths and old wives' tales; rather, train yourself to be godly. 8 For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come.”
1 Tim 4:6-8 (NIV)
These are my reasons and this is my faith. Not asking you to understand, but to respect.
School. In the last week I’ve seen a minimal amount of my high school classes. I can’t say I’m too disappointed in the fact, mainly because stress levels have depleted. I miss the atmosphere. Somehow, I actually enjoy that place. A small private school that I disagree with on several aspects is missed by me, a somewhat rebellious teenage drummer. Most people when they see me around think, “who’s that long haired punk wearing a white tee, sweat pants, and a bandana around his head? Why does he wear those rings and cross necklace. Is he begging for attention?”
Just the opposite actually! I don’t want attention like most people assume I do. I dress the way I do because of two major reasons: comfort (which is a must) and religious reasons. Most people call the second one false or even just an excuse. These are my reasons.
Comfort. I’m a teenager. I need to feel good, and if sweat pants and a light shirt make me feel better, I’m going to wear it no matter what. I mean, why would I try to look “good” according to the world’s standards and be uncomfortable? I can’t afford the nice expensive clothes so many people wear, so I make do with what I can buy.
Religion. Something tells me most people wouldn’t believe this when they read this, but this is the truth. I’m not trying to be prideful in saying that because that destroys my entire reasoning about this subject. Humility is the entire point of it. Let me explain a little bit. My casual clothing is a constant choice. As many know, the last year I’ve changed from constantly wearing button up shirts into wearing tees and sweats rather than khaki shorts for the most part. I still wear them when it’s hot, but whatever. I wear these clothes because it, in my head, means I’m not trying to be noticed. Yes I know, I love to laugh and that gets me plenty of attention wherever I go. But I don’t want to seem like I’m requiring it. My rings-One is a class ring, which is a reminder for respect. There’s a WWJD inscription underneath the rock, and I see it every time I put it on. The wedding band around my finger is a symbol of celibacy. It shows me that I will eventually marry someone whom I respect more than anyone on the face of the earth, and I want to respect her by not going around sleeping with random girls that I find or have feelings for. The cross necklace was a gift from my dad. It’s a symbol I have that when I put it on in the morning I remember to be a servant of Christ today. My long hair has meaning whether (especially my parents) believe it or not. I have to take a good five minutes in the morning drying my hair. To me it expresses my need of patience with myself and with others. It gives me the feeling of “I don’t have to rush everything. Not everything can be rushed.” I know most think that’s ridiculous, but I’m willing to post it on the internet. It’s not ridiculous to me. The last thing I really have a reason for wearing is the bandana. When I look at myself in the mirror in the morning I see a creation that, even though I may not like, God made and loves to (literally) death. I wear the bandana around my head because it’s my own crown. I wear it because Christ wore the crown of thorns. I’m not a religious nutjob so I don’t own my own thorny cross, but I do wear this bandana for the reason of being Christlike. I’m not a strong believer at this stage of my life and I do need constant reminders. These few constant daily reminders help initiate my day to a good start. I’m not saying I’m righteous for jewelry and a headband, but I’m professing to the world that I want to do a better job.
“6 If you point these things out to the brothers, you will be a good minister of Christ Jesus, brought up in the truths of the faith and of the good teaching that you have followed. 7 Have nothing to do with godless myths and old wives' tales; rather, train yourself to be godly. 8 For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come.”
1 Tim 4:6-8 (NIV)
These are my reasons and this is my faith. Not asking you to understand, but to respect.
Kanye, Swift, Leno, and Mommy
In the recent news, youtubers, bloggers, fanatics and such have gone absolutely insane with this fiasco with Taylor Swift and Kanye West at the MTV VMA awards. If you don’t know what happened, watch this informational video first.
Anyways, that’s what happened. Kanye thought Beyonce deserved the award, and got up on stage and told the entire world. Good job bud, now everybody hates you. But besides ruining his career, he also showed up on Jay Leno the next night showing great bravery though some fans and even non fans would disagree. He got onto the Jay Leno stage and the first thought I had was, “he’s going to either avoid all questions about last night, or he’s going to try and justify it. Suprising to me, he accepted that what he did was wrong. Jay Leno asked the simple question: “What would your mom think?”
Watch
You could see the anguish he felt at that very second. He was blindsided by the question and his face looked like his heart had been ripped from his chest. For the first time, I saw more than pride in his emotions. I saw misery and fear. And I feel bad for ever being so consistently mad at him.
“What would your mother think?” I love my mommmy (yes, mommy) so much. I know every basic moral standpoint according to her. She trained me for kindergarten. She trained me for Jr High. She trained me for college classes. She trained me for love. She trained me for respect toward the women in my life. I owe my life to my mom. “What would your mother think?” Do you think that if we all thought that way things would be different? In reality, if I was messing up and someone said “What would Jesus do?” I’d say, “I don’t know… He’s never been in this situation before…” or something along those lines. But if someone came up to me and said, “what would your mother think?” I’d freak out.
Jesus. He’s the one who created my mom. He’s the one who planned out my existence. Mom didn’t even do that. He did. The question that I should be asking isn’t, “what would mom think?”… Or is it? Does my mom, or my dad for that matter, mean more to me than the one who brought the two of them together? Kanye West doesn’t have a Savior. I do. Shouldn’t I be basing my life on Him rather than my mom?
Final thoughts:
Let mom influence me. She’s wise and knows what she’s doing. But Jesus knows what I’m doing. He trumps any mom.
Anyways, that’s what happened. Kanye thought Beyonce deserved the award, and got up on stage and told the entire world. Good job bud, now everybody hates you. But besides ruining his career, he also showed up on Jay Leno the next night showing great bravery though some fans and even non fans would disagree. He got onto the Jay Leno stage and the first thought I had was, “he’s going to either avoid all questions about last night, or he’s going to try and justify it. Suprising to me, he accepted that what he did was wrong. Jay Leno asked the simple question: “What would your mom think?”
Watch
You could see the anguish he felt at that very second. He was blindsided by the question and his face looked like his heart had been ripped from his chest. For the first time, I saw more than pride in his emotions. I saw misery and fear. And I feel bad for ever being so consistently mad at him.
“What would your mother think?” I love my mommmy (yes, mommy) so much. I know every basic moral standpoint according to her. She trained me for kindergarten. She trained me for Jr High. She trained me for college classes. She trained me for love. She trained me for respect toward the women in my life. I owe my life to my mom. “What would your mother think?” Do you think that if we all thought that way things would be different? In reality, if I was messing up and someone said “What would Jesus do?” I’d say, “I don’t know… He’s never been in this situation before…” or something along those lines. But if someone came up to me and said, “what would your mother think?” I’d freak out.
Jesus. He’s the one who created my mom. He’s the one who planned out my existence. Mom didn’t even do that. He did. The question that I should be asking isn’t, “what would mom think?”… Or is it? Does my mom, or my dad for that matter, mean more to me than the one who brought the two of them together? Kanye West doesn’t have a Savior. I do. Shouldn’t I be basing my life on Him rather than my mom?
Final thoughts:
Let mom influence me. She’s wise and knows what she’s doing. But Jesus knows what I’m doing. He trumps any mom.
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
iPrism iMadness
While sitting in a COS class today, the topic came up of filtering internet. iPrism and such. Personally, while on campus I have never run into the fabled “iPrism” block, and this got me to begin thinking what some students may be looking for that could be blocked. At my private school for the last year we used a website blocker. It’s extremely strict on what is shown and what is allowed, and it’s a ridiculous difference. The blocker basically removes any type of media or something slightly risqué, and was somewhat as an insult to my integrity when the system was introduced. Since having the blocker, I have found every possible chance to get around it to break the rules having somewhat of a rebellious attitude. If there wasn’t a block, would I still find the time to get onto these sites?
Before the filter was introduced at my school, I never found myself surfing the web, logging into facebook, or especially watching youtube videos just for fun. I have researched on youtube in the past (yes, it’s possible) and don’t have that availability to me anymore. I’m not saying the filter is inappropriate for there could always be situations where there is a total lack of discipline with internet, but there needs to be more student trust in the system.
As of the college classes I attend, I have begun to realize the temptation that I have faced in the past personally dealing with certain internet issues and when a quiz asked a question if the filter should stay on or not, I answered “yes, definitely.” The professor of the class brought up the subject a minute later in class, and there were several people that raised their hands immediately following the question. One of these students said that they wanted to be treated like an adult and can’t do that if there’s a strict filter on the web. Another student mentioned the male (and possibly female) struggle with pornography in teens. The student was a PA in his door and has already had conversations dealing with this topic, and can speak from experience. Both had legitimate points but this is the way I see it:
I have not had a filter on my personal internet since about eighth grade, and have struggled since somewhat with what I should be avoiding as a Christian. Since my acceptance of the faith as a freshman in high school the temptation has wondrously been almost absent from my mind. I am currently typing this blog on a Dell Studio 15 model laptop (there’s my advertisement of the day) which is connected to a wireless internet router which is at a max ten feet from my room. I have constant unfiltered internet access and have the trust of my parents to not go wandering the world wide porn industry. I have appreciated the unfiltered aspect of the unfiltered respect I have earned from my parents based on previous experiences, but I can vouch for the filter that the university has adopted. There is temptation for young men to seek arousal through internet fantasies and such examples of adult humor. (Not being a young female, I can’t really say anything about the subject from their viewpoint…) The iPrism filter has so far helped a couple young men that I know here on campus, one somewhat close and what somewhat distant. Both young men are fully content with the block, but that’s not what I have gotten so far from the young people in this class. They totally disagree with the idea of a filter and it makes me wonder what reasons they have for it. One such young man told that they needed to witness the real world as growing students. But what if there’s no ability to control oneself on the internet? Once in the world, there’s the option. If I’m struggling, cut the cord. That’s what the real world filter is. Here they offer harmless websites: facebook, youtube, the 700 Club fansite… Maybe the last isn’t so popular, but the point is, as young adults, we do need help with our lives. Respect those that need it.
Before the filter was introduced at my school, I never found myself surfing the web, logging into facebook, or especially watching youtube videos just for fun. I have researched on youtube in the past (yes, it’s possible) and don’t have that availability to me anymore. I’m not saying the filter is inappropriate for there could always be situations where there is a total lack of discipline with internet, but there needs to be more student trust in the system.
As of the college classes I attend, I have begun to realize the temptation that I have faced in the past personally dealing with certain internet issues and when a quiz asked a question if the filter should stay on or not, I answered “yes, definitely.” The professor of the class brought up the subject a minute later in class, and there were several people that raised their hands immediately following the question. One of these students said that they wanted to be treated like an adult and can’t do that if there’s a strict filter on the web. Another student mentioned the male (and possibly female) struggle with pornography in teens. The student was a PA in his door and has already had conversations dealing with this topic, and can speak from experience. Both had legitimate points but this is the way I see it:
I have not had a filter on my personal internet since about eighth grade, and have struggled since somewhat with what I should be avoiding as a Christian. Since my acceptance of the faith as a freshman in high school the temptation has wondrously been almost absent from my mind. I am currently typing this blog on a Dell Studio 15 model laptop (there’s my advertisement of the day) which is connected to a wireless internet router which is at a max ten feet from my room. I have constant unfiltered internet access and have the trust of my parents to not go wandering the world wide porn industry. I have appreciated the unfiltered aspect of the unfiltered respect I have earned from my parents based on previous experiences, but I can vouch for the filter that the university has adopted. There is temptation for young men to seek arousal through internet fantasies and such examples of adult humor. (Not being a young female, I can’t really say anything about the subject from their viewpoint…) The iPrism filter has so far helped a couple young men that I know here on campus, one somewhat close and what somewhat distant. Both young men are fully content with the block, but that’s not what I have gotten so far from the young people in this class. They totally disagree with the idea of a filter and it makes me wonder what reasons they have for it. One such young man told that they needed to witness the real world as growing students. But what if there’s no ability to control oneself on the internet? Once in the world, there’s the option. If I’m struggling, cut the cord. That’s what the real world filter is. Here they offer harmless websites: facebook, youtube, the 700 Club fansite… Maybe the last isn’t so popular, but the point is, as young adults, we do need help with our lives. Respect those that need it.
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
Chief Patrick Oliver
Most of my friends know that I've recently ventured away from the giant cornfield of Indiana to another state of Ohio. I'm sitting in my dorm room here in Cedarville University writing because there's something I believe I may need to say.
Facebook: Saint or Sinner?
You may not think of this right away, this morning when I thought of it, I felt the same way. Facebook? There's no way that I can get stalked because of that. I was always told to not put up too much information on social networking sites because it could lead to some awful stuff like stalkers, murderers, rapists, etc. Are you serious? Who could possibly want to do any of those to me? Apparently, there's other dangers involved. Have any of my readers been in a criminal justice position? So far, I haven't known any officials young enough to have myspace or facebook as a teenager, so I didn't know this monstrous pressing danger.
There is a man very dear to my heart after a day and a half listening to him, joking with him and learning from him. Chief Patrick Oliver, a great man of God and a great Professor. He tought me on the first day of class the importance of one main aspect of a career. Job Security.
There's a lot of things I've put on Facebook, including quizzes saying all the stupid stuff I've done in the last year. Some of that stuff I could have made up, and a future employer could see that. What would they think if they saw I had done something I really hadn't? My myspace is filled with junk that I can't believe I actually put on there. I have done some stuff before my Revival into a Christian life of constant growth. I have many downfalls fairly often, but I'm getting better, and I don't want a future employer to see that without seeing all the new things that have happened in my life. I'm not too keen on having so much of my immature, and immoral, life exposed. How can i expect job security from that?
Why did I put those up there? Why was I so childish?
I want to firmly encourage you friends to make sure you as people, and most Children of God, to not post anything that you wouldn't see a grandparent or a boss seeing. I haven't lived by this, but because of my recent strive to work in the criminal justice field, I've finally realized what can happen by those "on-a-whim" decisions.
And to those of you who may not agree with my thoughts, write back. Tell my how this isn't immature, and tell me why a future employer would think it's cute, funny, charming, etc.
And to those of you who will just ignore the warning of some "punk kid," background checks are real, and facebook owns the information, pictures, videos and notes. You don't. Sorry broseph.
Jolly Jon.
Facebook: Saint or Sinner?
You may not think of this right away, this morning when I thought of it, I felt the same way. Facebook? There's no way that I can get stalked because of that. I was always told to not put up too much information on social networking sites because it could lead to some awful stuff like stalkers, murderers, rapists, etc. Are you serious? Who could possibly want to do any of those to me? Apparently, there's other dangers involved. Have any of my readers been in a criminal justice position? So far, I haven't known any officials young enough to have myspace or facebook as a teenager, so I didn't know this monstrous pressing danger.
There is a man very dear to my heart after a day and a half listening to him, joking with him and learning from him. Chief Patrick Oliver, a great man of God and a great Professor. He tought me on the first day of class the importance of one main aspect of a career. Job Security.
There's a lot of things I've put on Facebook, including quizzes saying all the stupid stuff I've done in the last year. Some of that stuff I could have made up, and a future employer could see that. What would they think if they saw I had done something I really hadn't? My myspace is filled with junk that I can't believe I actually put on there. I have done some stuff before my Revival into a Christian life of constant growth. I have many downfalls fairly often, but I'm getting better, and I don't want a future employer to see that without seeing all the new things that have happened in my life. I'm not too keen on having so much of my immature, and immoral, life exposed. How can i expect job security from that?
Why did I put those up there? Why was I so childish?
I want to firmly encourage you friends to make sure you as people, and most Children of God, to not post anything that you wouldn't see a grandparent or a boss seeing. I haven't lived by this, but because of my recent strive to work in the criminal justice field, I've finally realized what can happen by those "on-a-whim" decisions.
And to those of you who may not agree with my thoughts, write back. Tell my how this isn't immature, and tell me why a future employer would think it's cute, funny, charming, etc.
And to those of you who will just ignore the warning of some "punk kid," background checks are real, and facebook owns the information, pictures, videos and notes. You don't. Sorry broseph.
Jolly Jon.
Friday, June 5, 2009
I'm a Working Man Now!
As most people in my life know, I currently have my first job at Southway Animal Hospital; a job which i got mainly due to the fact that my mother is a Veterinarian at the clinic. I figured I could give a pretty basic rundown of my co-workers that I come into the most contact with during the day. I haven't gotten to know them all yet, but there's quite a few quirks to the place!
Dr. Dave Pence:
The Strong Silent Leader
Dr. Pence reminds me of Aragorn from The Lord of the Rings. Don't get me wrong, but knowing him a long time, there are basics that I've always known about him. First, if you wear IU clothing while in the clinic, you will get at least one wise crack out of him about it. Second, he buys you stuff at Christmas if your mom works with him. As far as I knew, He was a Purdue Pete in a Santa's costume. This is false. After working with him, I found out that he is quiet, and needs a good worker. He isn't perfect, like you expect every doctor to be (yet all fall short), but if my animal had a problem, I would entrust this man with it. He knows what he's doing, and he is good at it. I have complete faith in his abilities. He leads us with a steady hand, and still has a sense of humor through it all. He is quite possibly the ideal boss, and definitely the ideal first boss. I can be late, and he won't mind as long as i get the job done. He's a great man, and I'm glad to work for him.
Dr. Beth Davis:
The Old Cat Lady
Now don't think for a second that she's one of those older women who keeps a million cats and loves them more than life itself! This is completely wrong. She's my mom, and I know for a fact that cats aren't her favorite. She loves dogs and horses, but she seems more like she tolerates a feline existance and wishes the best for every cat that strolls into the clinic. I call her the Old Cat Lady because as a part of my job i sweep the clinic and mop, and whenever i get to her office, I can find many many balls of cat hair beneath her desk and lying around. I swear I found at least 5 cats mixed in that hair so far. In all seriousness, she attracts more patients that have cats. Dr. Pence will take care of them, but he is a tall man, and just seems to be more of a dog person. Dr. Davis (mom) is a shorter lady, and gives off a more "cat-friendly" vibe. If I ever had a cat, which i pray I'm not that unlucky, I would choose her over anyone, and hope I don't have to sweep up her office the rest of my life. I think she likes watching me work for her...
Jodi:
The Scary One
Jodi is the kind of woman you take in a biker bar with you. No, not the kind of woman who wears leather chaps and drinks beer after beer, but the kind of woman you would trust to take down a biker. :) She could kick my butt with one leg and no arms. If I didn't know she had such a big heart, especially for family, friends, and her pets, I'd probably be scared of her. This isn't a bash on how she looks at all. In fact, the only reason about her as to why I would be scared at all is her bark! She talks tough, but I think that's about it. She's an ol' softie on the inside... I think.
Lisa:
The Funny One
At least to me, Lisa is the funny one out of the group. Her sense of humor isn't always intentional I don't think, but she still makes it funny most of the time. I have had a couple instances of her coming around a corner and me just dying laughing on the inside. Today I was supposed to be off, but there is a girl, with the same job as I do on days I don't work, whose name is Andrea. Lisa expected her to be working and walked around the corner. No greetings were swapped, just an exclamation: "You're not Andrea!" I turned and gave my polite response: "You caught it that fast, didja?" I'm glad I have a co-worker I can joke around with and make the day a little more fun than not, even though everyone has some sense of humor.
Amy-
The Watchful Eye
Amy is a wonderful woman. She is always on top of her job, the other receptionists' jobs, Jodi and Lisa's jobs, and especially my job! By saying this, I don't mean to say she's worrisome, but more than anything, dependable. She's the person that's not on time to work, but she's ten minutes early. She leaves after I do as well. She makes sure everything's ready for another day before leaving, and knows the place inside, outside, upside and downside. If I have a question, I'll avoid anyone to get to Amy. She's always around to help, and she's a blessing.
Now that I've mentioned some of my co-workers, which I know I haven't listed them all, but these are the ones i know best, there are other regulars that need mentioned. These include pets. Mainly Socks and Sheila's dog, whose name I can't recall. It's too late.
Socks is a gray cat who is afraid to come out of the cage. I took him out a couple times, as i look at my hand, one of the cuts has finally healed into a scar. He HATES being out, and can still maintain a healthy weight. Our outside cats are fat...
Sheila's dog, whose name left my mind, which I'll remember tomorrow morning.. SOPHIE! It's Sophie! Right, well Sophie is a great little tiny dog. Sophie and I are good friends at this point. She will bark her foolish head off at anyone that comes into the back save a couple. One of the two or three she will spare is me. Andrea and her don't get along, but I get along with her. So if I have a spare 5-10 minutes while working, I will sit on the floor outside Sophie's cage and open it. She will dart out and just leap to my lap. Then I take her into the break room and will sit down and pet this dog forever if I could. Her personality is incredible if you get to know her well, which I have now done. Probably my favorite dog that can fit in a 5 gallon bucket.
This is my job, and these are my fellow Southwaynians. I'm glad I'm there, and I hope to get to know the rest very well.
Peace.
Dr. Dave Pence:
The Strong Silent Leader
Dr. Pence reminds me of Aragorn from The Lord of the Rings. Don't get me wrong, but knowing him a long time, there are basics that I've always known about him. First, if you wear IU clothing while in the clinic, you will get at least one wise crack out of him about it. Second, he buys you stuff at Christmas if your mom works with him. As far as I knew, He was a Purdue Pete in a Santa's costume. This is false. After working with him, I found out that he is quiet, and needs a good worker. He isn't perfect, like you expect every doctor to be (yet all fall short), but if my animal had a problem, I would entrust this man with it. He knows what he's doing, and he is good at it. I have complete faith in his abilities. He leads us with a steady hand, and still has a sense of humor through it all. He is quite possibly the ideal boss, and definitely the ideal first boss. I can be late, and he won't mind as long as i get the job done. He's a great man, and I'm glad to work for him.
Dr. Beth Davis:
The Old Cat Lady
Now don't think for a second that she's one of those older women who keeps a million cats and loves them more than life itself! This is completely wrong. She's my mom, and I know for a fact that cats aren't her favorite. She loves dogs and horses, but she seems more like she tolerates a feline existance and wishes the best for every cat that strolls into the clinic. I call her the Old Cat Lady because as a part of my job i sweep the clinic and mop, and whenever i get to her office, I can find many many balls of cat hair beneath her desk and lying around. I swear I found at least 5 cats mixed in that hair so far. In all seriousness, she attracts more patients that have cats. Dr. Pence will take care of them, but he is a tall man, and just seems to be more of a dog person. Dr. Davis (mom) is a shorter lady, and gives off a more "cat-friendly" vibe. If I ever had a cat, which i pray I'm not that unlucky, I would choose her over anyone, and hope I don't have to sweep up her office the rest of my life. I think she likes watching me work for her...
Jodi:
The Scary One
Jodi is the kind of woman you take in a biker bar with you. No, not the kind of woman who wears leather chaps and drinks beer after beer, but the kind of woman you would trust to take down a biker. :) She could kick my butt with one leg and no arms. If I didn't know she had such a big heart, especially for family, friends, and her pets, I'd probably be scared of her. This isn't a bash on how she looks at all. In fact, the only reason about her as to why I would be scared at all is her bark! She talks tough, but I think that's about it. She's an ol' softie on the inside... I think.
Lisa:
The Funny One
At least to me, Lisa is the funny one out of the group. Her sense of humor isn't always intentional I don't think, but she still makes it funny most of the time. I have had a couple instances of her coming around a corner and me just dying laughing on the inside. Today I was supposed to be off, but there is a girl, with the same job as I do on days I don't work, whose name is Andrea. Lisa expected her to be working and walked around the corner. No greetings were swapped, just an exclamation: "You're not Andrea!" I turned and gave my polite response: "You caught it that fast, didja?" I'm glad I have a co-worker I can joke around with and make the day a little more fun than not, even though everyone has some sense of humor.
Amy-
The Watchful Eye
Amy is a wonderful woman. She is always on top of her job, the other receptionists' jobs, Jodi and Lisa's jobs, and especially my job! By saying this, I don't mean to say she's worrisome, but more than anything, dependable. She's the person that's not on time to work, but she's ten minutes early. She leaves after I do as well. She makes sure everything's ready for another day before leaving, and knows the place inside, outside, upside and downside. If I have a question, I'll avoid anyone to get to Amy. She's always around to help, and she's a blessing.
Now that I've mentioned some of my co-workers, which I know I haven't listed them all, but these are the ones i know best, there are other regulars that need mentioned. These include pets. Mainly Socks and Sheila's dog, whose name I can't recall. It's too late.
Socks is a gray cat who is afraid to come out of the cage. I took him out a couple times, as i look at my hand, one of the cuts has finally healed into a scar. He HATES being out, and can still maintain a healthy weight. Our outside cats are fat...
Sheila's dog, whose name left my mind, which I'll remember tomorrow morning.. SOPHIE! It's Sophie! Right, well Sophie is a great little tiny dog. Sophie and I are good friends at this point. She will bark her foolish head off at anyone that comes into the back save a couple. One of the two or three she will spare is me. Andrea and her don't get along, but I get along with her. So if I have a spare 5-10 minutes while working, I will sit on the floor outside Sophie's cage and open it. She will dart out and just leap to my lap. Then I take her into the break room and will sit down and pet this dog forever if I could. Her personality is incredible if you get to know her well, which I have now done. Probably my favorite dog that can fit in a 5 gallon bucket.
This is my job, and these are my fellow Southwaynians. I'm glad I'm there, and I hope to get to know the rest very well.
Peace.
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Violence, Sex, and Language. How Does it Sound to You?
Bible Class with Rev. John Bundick. Not sure exactly how he does it, but even when we talk about goofing off with fireworks, movies, and Band of Brothers he gets me thinking.
Today, in Bible, Shepherd (a nickname for John we got from a movie called Serenity) started talking about his childhood and compared his to some of our stories. I shared a couple of my little bottle rocket stories, and Austin shared many memories of Roman Candle jousting with 2 Go-Karts. Shep told us about his experiences shooting fireworks accidentally across a lake at a camp, and we all shared a laugh at his expense, fully welcomed by the big teddy bear teacher telling the story. We soon moved on to his top 5 movie choices, and which movies he would or wouldn't see again.
I had already been piqued about this topic (no, not fireworks) so i was ready for another long thought process. One of the most famous movies that has come out within the last few months is based on a graphic novel. (I have not seen the movie, so I'm only using word of mouth to describe how I'm feeling on this subject.) Watchmen is this movie. I have heard many tales of nudity, brutality in the violence, and other extremities in the film. I have chosen not to see it because of personal conviction, but this blog isn't supposed to be bashing a movie.
The point is Christians: how far is too far? What movies should we expose ourselves to and what movies are allowed? Is there a limit for Christians on a rating? Should the Bible say "No Rated R Films!"? I have personally watched quite a few "R" rated movies, not feeling too convicted about most, but the root of the problem is a cultural difference. In Europe, it is less acceptable to watch violence than sex. Sex is no big deal in the continent. Here, sex is extremely less acceptable than violence. We should just block out secular media. Who's joining me?!!
False. Media, as said by our teacher today, which was a compilation statement of many of my own thoughts, is our way of reaching the culture. As a culture in the United States, we tell stories to get points across. They're fun, easy to tell, and easy to relate to. How can we tell stories without knowing what stories are accepted by our culture? This is in no way giving Christians, or good-hearted non-Christians the right to go out and corrupt their minds. The only thing I am being told to write is this: Discretion.
Some people have so much discretion that they won't have a radio or a television in their home. I won't do this when i get older. I plan on owning both! I love music so much, and I love movies and television as well. I can't say that I rely on television like I had as a child, because I have many other social opportunities, but they're still nice to have in case of emergency. Focus on what discretion is! Discretion as a Christian isn't blocking out media, but it's knowing what aspects affect you as a person the most. I personally am not hindered by action/violence or language in movies. I am affected, however, by sex scenes, dark references, horror, and even partial nudity (little clothing on). I will see most movies, but if I find out about a long sex scene, even though my first instinct is "Oh boy!", I won't see it. It's our Christian duty to be in the world, but not of it.
I want to convict my fellow believers of this: Discretion. Don't shut yourself out. Know what you're most affected by, and avoid it.
Today, in Bible, Shepherd (a nickname for John we got from a movie called Serenity) started talking about his childhood and compared his to some of our stories. I shared a couple of my little bottle rocket stories, and Austin shared many memories of Roman Candle jousting with 2 Go-Karts. Shep told us about his experiences shooting fireworks accidentally across a lake at a camp, and we all shared a laugh at his expense, fully welcomed by the big teddy bear teacher telling the story. We soon moved on to his top 5 movie choices, and which movies he would or wouldn't see again.
I had already been piqued about this topic (no, not fireworks) so i was ready for another long thought process. One of the most famous movies that has come out within the last few months is based on a graphic novel. (I have not seen the movie, so I'm only using word of mouth to describe how I'm feeling on this subject.) Watchmen is this movie. I have heard many tales of nudity, brutality in the violence, and other extremities in the film. I have chosen not to see it because of personal conviction, but this blog isn't supposed to be bashing a movie.
The point is Christians: how far is too far? What movies should we expose ourselves to and what movies are allowed? Is there a limit for Christians on a rating? Should the Bible say "No Rated R Films!"? I have personally watched quite a few "R" rated movies, not feeling too convicted about most, but the root of the problem is a cultural difference. In Europe, it is less acceptable to watch violence than sex. Sex is no big deal in the continent. Here, sex is extremely less acceptable than violence. We should just block out secular media. Who's joining me?!!
False. Media, as said by our teacher today, which was a compilation statement of many of my own thoughts, is our way of reaching the culture. As a culture in the United States, we tell stories to get points across. They're fun, easy to tell, and easy to relate to. How can we tell stories without knowing what stories are accepted by our culture? This is in no way giving Christians, or good-hearted non-Christians the right to go out and corrupt their minds. The only thing I am being told to write is this: Discretion.
Some people have so much discretion that they won't have a radio or a television in their home. I won't do this when i get older. I plan on owning both! I love music so much, and I love movies and television as well. I can't say that I rely on television like I had as a child, because I have many other social opportunities, but they're still nice to have in case of emergency. Focus on what discretion is! Discretion as a Christian isn't blocking out media, but it's knowing what aspects affect you as a person the most. I personally am not hindered by action/violence or language in movies. I am affected, however, by sex scenes, dark references, horror, and even partial nudity (little clothing on). I will see most movies, but if I find out about a long sex scene, even though my first instinct is "Oh boy!", I won't see it. It's our Christian duty to be in the world, but not of it.
I want to convict my fellow believers of this: Discretion. Don't shut yourself out. Know what you're most affected by, and avoid it.
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
The Storm Front.
Tonight for a sort of end-of-the-year stress relief, a couple friends and I, Jacob Singer and Nathan Gross, joined our dear senior friend and chap, Austin Sisson, at his residence for a lovely dip in his pool and to watch "The Terminator" in honor of the newest addition to the series. After downing a couple glasses of water in Austin's recently discovered massive martini glass, we began to make our way outside.
Whilst outside, we sat on the stone wall above the sidewalk next to my parked car. We just talked, made jokes, and bonded together. Jacob was texting his lady-friend somewhat often, so we kind of ignored him when he did.
After it started raining, the three of us sat in the front seat of my car, and i was debating calling my parents to ask if i could stay longer, but out of respect of the hour (11 O'clock) i resisted. At first, my thoughts were, "I'm going to miss this when Austin's in college..." Then it started to rain hard, and i love driving in the rain, so we took off, leaving Austin to get back into the house in the downpour.
After dropping the junior higher off (Jacob), i proceeded to my own home. Halfway home, the rain stops and i put my window down. I look off to my left due to a large truck turning slowly at the intersection i was stopped at to see one of the most amazing 4 seconds of lightning i have ever seen. The sky was lit on fire, and the only thought in my head was, "Oh Lord, look what you can do."
Arriving home somewhat replenished, checking my rear mirror for more of the show i had witnessed before, i get out of the car, and the first place i went to after setting my stuff down was the front sidewalk. I saw another incredible display, and immediately my mind set off. What have i been doing? Even tonight? I finally realized the sin that i've been wading in for so long, but i can't stop. I have let myself slip into the abyss of my own sin, not even considering forgiveness. How can i think about where God wants me to go without first coming to God on my knees. I fell to the ground, banging bone on brick. My knees cried out in pain, but i stayed still. I prayed, "God, what the crap am i doing?" I know it's prayer, but that's what i thought, and God would know if i softened it for Him, which isn't just courtesy, it's dishonesty of what i've been thinking in my perspective. "How did i get so far lost in this sin that i can't see a problem with it?" In man class, we have talked about Job, and i assume you know the story. "Job didn't curse you, forget you, but he bent down to you!!" My hands fell before me, and my eyes toward the bricks below me; the bricks filling up with light for what seemed an eternity. "After what you saved me from, now i'm wallowing in even more filth. God save me!"
I'm saved by the world's standards. Saved meaning going to heaven. I'm going to heaven without this sin, whether it hurts me now or not. I didn't give it up tonight, but I am getting help from my Savior, my friends, my family, and you. Please pray for me; I need it so desperately...
-Jolly Jon-
Whilst outside, we sat on the stone wall above the sidewalk next to my parked car. We just talked, made jokes, and bonded together. Jacob was texting his lady-friend somewhat often, so we kind of ignored him when he did.
After it started raining, the three of us sat in the front seat of my car, and i was debating calling my parents to ask if i could stay longer, but out of respect of the hour (11 O'clock) i resisted. At first, my thoughts were, "I'm going to miss this when Austin's in college..." Then it started to rain hard, and i love driving in the rain, so we took off, leaving Austin to get back into the house in the downpour.
After dropping the junior higher off (Jacob), i proceeded to my own home. Halfway home, the rain stops and i put my window down. I look off to my left due to a large truck turning slowly at the intersection i was stopped at to see one of the most amazing 4 seconds of lightning i have ever seen. The sky was lit on fire, and the only thought in my head was, "Oh Lord, look what you can do."
Arriving home somewhat replenished, checking my rear mirror for more of the show i had witnessed before, i get out of the car, and the first place i went to after setting my stuff down was the front sidewalk. I saw another incredible display, and immediately my mind set off. What have i been doing? Even tonight? I finally realized the sin that i've been wading in for so long, but i can't stop. I have let myself slip into the abyss of my own sin, not even considering forgiveness. How can i think about where God wants me to go without first coming to God on my knees. I fell to the ground, banging bone on brick. My knees cried out in pain, but i stayed still. I prayed, "God, what the crap am i doing?" I know it's prayer, but that's what i thought, and God would know if i softened it for Him, which isn't just courtesy, it's dishonesty of what i've been thinking in my perspective. "How did i get so far lost in this sin that i can't see a problem with it?" In man class, we have talked about Job, and i assume you know the story. "Job didn't curse you, forget you, but he bent down to you!!" My hands fell before me, and my eyes toward the bricks below me; the bricks filling up with light for what seemed an eternity. "After what you saved me from, now i'm wallowing in even more filth. God save me!"
I'm saved by the world's standards. Saved meaning going to heaven. I'm going to heaven without this sin, whether it hurts me now or not. I didn't give it up tonight, but I am getting help from my Savior, my friends, my family, and you. Please pray for me; I need it so desperately...
-Jolly Jon-
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