... or more like having it stolen from me.
As we close in on Christmas, I have been amazed at all the effort this year to take the Christianity out of Christmas. Granted, Christmas has for many years now been quickly becoming a commercial holiday rather than a religious one but that is besides the point. What I am talking about is that it seems these last few weeks there has been a signifcant rise in the accounts of not being able to celebrate or even acknowledge the religious aspects of Christmas. At the University of Illinois you cannot have a Christmas Tree in the common areas of the dorms and displaying Christmas messages or symbols in your window is being questioned. This is because some students were complaining about the "offensiveness" of the displays. Offensive!!?? A tree or Santa Claus?!?! Talk about thin skinned! Also, at many parties held this season, they are "holiday" parties rather than Christmas parties, but yet they are complete with all the Christmas trimmings, that are both obivious and subtle in their religious connotation. But yet, you can't call it Christmas. But it is the Advent season in the Christian calendar and on the 24th it will officially be the Christmas season, although the retail stores would have you beleive it started October 1st.
At church on last sunday the high school aged students presented a throughly modern play that through to me about how the real reason for celebrating Christmas has been lost to so many. For Christians, it is the celebration of the birth of their savior, and so we celebrate by giving gifts to loved ones much like the wisemen or kings of the bible story did at Jesus' birth. Retails stores have picked up on this and made it into their main season of sales and made it the commercialized holiday that it is and we Christians, along with everyone else that likes getting gifts have played into their hands and help the process along. However, no matter what you believe, never forget that you are also playing right along with the Christian belief that the saviour of the world was born in Jerusalem many years ago and began a long process of dying for your sins so that you might be saved in the end of all things. Don't tell me you can celebrate Christmas without celebrating Christ because it goes hand in hand. Can you celebrate Ramadan and ignore the Koran and writings of Mohammed, or celebrate Hannukah and ignore the significance of the Hannukah story. Probably, but it make the holidays a little hollow for those who follow those beliefs. I don't celebrate those holidays because they are not my beliefs but I respect them and would never think of telling those who do celebrate them that they can't include very signicant portions of their beleif system in their celebrations. I don't care if they are not commercially signifcant in the US or world economy. Just because my holiday is and it is very wide spread, doesn't mean I have to hold back or curtail aspects of it so that I don't offend someone of a different belief.
Let me have my holiday in its totallity and I will let others have theirs. For me Christmas is a very special holiday. It allows me to imitate God's love for me, by giving gifts to my family in somewhat of the same manner that he gave me a gift. Love and family, God's and mine, that is what Christmas means to me.
I am sorry if this is somewhat rambling but religion is a tough thing for me to speak on but I think you get my meaning. Thanks and Merry Christmas!
Monday, December 20, 2004
Wednesday, December 08, 2004
Material Things
Recently I witnessed a very disturbing sight. On a Tuesday evening, I was called to the "home" of one of my best friends to be with him as his home burnt. I have never been close to someone who has suffered from a home fire and it was very traumatic not only for him, but for me. To sit there and watch as his home, his belongings, his treasures burned is unlike anything I have ever experienced. When someone loses a loved one, you can always console them, tell them that it will be okay and that they will always live on in memory and that the loved one has gone to a better place. However, with a fire, I found that there was little I could tell my friend other than, "What is your insurance like?" (Pretty impersonal, huh?) Really! That is all that you can really say. Unlike a loved one, of whom death is usually expected at some time or another, a fire that destroys all that you hold dear or precious or valuable in some way, is never expected. If it was, would we continue to buy things and store them all in one place, that in many ways is nothing more than a wooden box waiting to catch fire?
My friend is not a material person, but even he was moved to tears to know that his belongings were gone. I was even surprised to hear him say, "Everything that important to me was in there." And even more saddening was to hear that even though it was not pretty, not big, he was comfortable in his house and he and his girls called it "home."
He will rebuild and it will be "home" again. But what about all that stuff that he accrued over many years. Some of it he had since childhood. How do you replace that. I guess that too will live on in memory like a loved one that has crossed over...
I have a ton of stuff in my home and each and everybit of it means something to me in some way or another. There are some items that I really would not care if they were lost, but some things, like my books, my sword and gun collection, the pictures and childhood items... if they were lost, it would feel like a major part of my life were to be erased! There is no way I could replace them. I would not even try. I almost think that these material items are part of my identity and in some way part of what makes me, me. When people think of a sword or a gun they see or hear about, or a history or fantacy book, they often think of me, or vice versa.
So what is this all about? I don't know. Just that don't covet your material possessions, because they are not nearly as important as your faith, family and friends, but at the same time, life is short so go out and buy something that means something to you. Something that makes you, you. Your possessions are part of what you say about yourself to the rest of the world. And do your best to fireproof your home... (after writing this, I probably shouldn't listen to myself, 'cause I just found a motorcylce that I fell in love with....)
My friend is not a material person, but even he was moved to tears to know that his belongings were gone. I was even surprised to hear him say, "Everything that important to me was in there." And even more saddening was to hear that even though it was not pretty, not big, he was comfortable in his house and he and his girls called it "home."
He will rebuild and it will be "home" again. But what about all that stuff that he accrued over many years. Some of it he had since childhood. How do you replace that. I guess that too will live on in memory like a loved one that has crossed over...
I have a ton of stuff in my home and each and everybit of it means something to me in some way or another. There are some items that I really would not care if they were lost, but some things, like my books, my sword and gun collection, the pictures and childhood items... if they were lost, it would feel like a major part of my life were to be erased! There is no way I could replace them. I would not even try. I almost think that these material items are part of my identity and in some way part of what makes me, me. When people think of a sword or a gun they see or hear about, or a history or fantacy book, they often think of me, or vice versa.
So what is this all about? I don't know. Just that don't covet your material possessions, because they are not nearly as important as your faith, family and friends, but at the same time, life is short so go out and buy something that means something to you. Something that makes you, you. Your possessions are part of what you say about yourself to the rest of the world. And do your best to fireproof your home... (after writing this, I probably shouldn't listen to myself, 'cause I just found a motorcylce that I fell in love with....)
Monday, December 06, 2004
Burned bulbs and off-line
Ever wake your kids up and have them immediately start crying for no reason, and then find out that they are missing their mom? Talk about a tough thing to take in the morning. My kids miss me when I am gone, but I doubt that they voice their feelings as much as they do when their mom is gone. ( I think I am kind of jealous about that) They have been kind of blah , but I have been keeping them pretty busy and entertained the last few days and they are pretty tired when they go to bed but still I think they feel like I do. When mom is gone, it feels like one light is burned out in a beautiful chandelier and you can't wait for the bulb to be burning bright again. The house is just a little dimmer without mom around to them. And it wasn't really until this morning with the kids crying and then when I got to work and didn't see that she was online with Yahoo Messenger, (she always is online) that i really started to miss her. But like I said to the kids, it will be okay and Thursday will be here soon enough! At least I can do Christmas shopping with out having to sneak!
Monday, November 29, 2004
Random thoughts on traveling to Florida.
I recently drove my family to Florida to visit family there. It was a good time all the way around but I thought of some intresting things while there.
First, Kentucky is absolutely beautiful.
Ever notice that the further south you go, the more numerous the billboard signs get?
70 mph speed limits rock. It may only be 5 mph faster than in Illinois, but it feels like you are really getting somewhere alot faster.
While in Florida, we visited Epcot. While there in the "England" area we were eating and I asked our very friendly waiter where he was from. After a few more questions he quickly said, "You're going to aske me about our kings, aren't you. I only know of one, Henry VIII." I have met a number of average English persons and they all seem to be fairly unknowledgeable about their history. Granted, most US high schoolers don't know history well, but I think they are better schooled than people give them credit for. I have met only a few people from England who really knew their own history, but they were at historical re-enactments. Oh well, just a comment on that. And while I was there, I found out that my family name has a heraldic crest! A sable dragon, rampant, on a field of gold. Cool! Given sometime in the late 1400's.
Also, at Epcot, I learned that in the native language of Morocco, my name means "religion."
There are way too many cars on the road anymore..
How is it that Georgia can have gas for $1.71 and twenty miles later in Florida, it is $1.97?
Vacations in Florida aren't expensive, it's the eating in Florida that is expensive. The last thing we bought in Florida was a bottle of water for $3.75!!!
Florida smells rotten to me. Nothing personal to Floridains and you have a wonderful state, but it just smells rotten to my nose.
First, Kentucky is absolutely beautiful.
Ever notice that the further south you go, the more numerous the billboard signs get?
70 mph speed limits rock. It may only be 5 mph faster than in Illinois, but it feels like you are really getting somewhere alot faster.
While in Florida, we visited Epcot. While there in the "England" area we were eating and I asked our very friendly waiter where he was from. After a few more questions he quickly said, "You're going to aske me about our kings, aren't you. I only know of one, Henry VIII." I have met a number of average English persons and they all seem to be fairly unknowledgeable about their history. Granted, most US high schoolers don't know history well, but I think they are better schooled than people give them credit for. I have met only a few people from England who really knew their own history, but they were at historical re-enactments. Oh well, just a comment on that. And while I was there, I found out that my family name has a heraldic crest! A sable dragon, rampant, on a field of gold. Cool! Given sometime in the late 1400's.
Also, at Epcot, I learned that in the native language of Morocco, my name means "religion."
There are way too many cars on the road anymore..
How is it that Georgia can have gas for $1.71 and twenty miles later in Florida, it is $1.97?
Vacations in Florida aren't expensive, it's the eating in Florida that is expensive. The last thing we bought in Florida was a bottle of water for $3.75!!!
Florida smells rotten to me. Nothing personal to Floridains and you have a wonderful state, but it just smells rotten to my nose.
Manifesto
This is something I had prepared for a Survivor Audition Tape but at the last minute decided to do something different. However, everything in my little manifesto is still true. Never did get on that stupid show...
Who I am is a husband, a father, and a son. Who I am is someone who believes that without the Father, Son and Holy Ghost, you can never find real happiness or prosperity.
I believe that it takes a real man to find a woman who is your soul-mate and love her for the rest of your life.
I believe that most modern Americans are soft, lazy and over legislated, but we are still the greatest nation history has ever known.
Politically, I think most left wingers and liberals are self-loathing whiners who want Americans to be hand fed by the government.
I believe that to hunt, track and kill wild game is the best way to get closer to being a natural person, not wearing sandals, eating tofu and hugging trees. Vegetarianism is unnatural.
And speaking of things like hunting, gun control is hitting your target on the first shot. Drugs, even casual use drugs, are for losers. I’ve never used them, never will.
I have never much been interested in athletics, but believe that to let oneself go physically is a sin. I believe in staying in the best shape that one can.
And speaking of athletes, I think most professional athletes are over-sexed, over-medicated, moral degenerates that have no place being role models for our kids.
My biggest regret is not joining the military service. I would have made a great soldier.
Living outdoors, sleeping under the stars, without a whole lot, or very little modern conveniences, is what I call a vacation.
I am a great liar. But I have a guilty conscience so, I hate to lie. But when needed, you will never know I am doing it.
I believe that in order to have friends, you must be, and act like a friend.
Who I am is a husband, a father, and a son. Who I am is someone who believes that without the Father, Son and Holy Ghost, you can never find real happiness or prosperity.
I believe that it takes a real man to find a woman who is your soul-mate and love her for the rest of your life.
I believe that most modern Americans are soft, lazy and over legislated, but we are still the greatest nation history has ever known.
Politically, I think most left wingers and liberals are self-loathing whiners who want Americans to be hand fed by the government.
I believe that to hunt, track and kill wild game is the best way to get closer to being a natural person, not wearing sandals, eating tofu and hugging trees. Vegetarianism is unnatural.
And speaking of things like hunting, gun control is hitting your target on the first shot. Drugs, even casual use drugs, are for losers. I’ve never used them, never will.
I have never much been interested in athletics, but believe that to let oneself go physically is a sin. I believe in staying in the best shape that one can.
And speaking of athletes, I think most professional athletes are over-sexed, over-medicated, moral degenerates that have no place being role models for our kids.
My biggest regret is not joining the military service. I would have made a great soldier.
Living outdoors, sleeping under the stars, without a whole lot, or very little modern conveniences, is what I call a vacation.
I am a great liar. But I have a guilty conscience so, I hate to lie. But when needed, you will never know I am doing it.
I believe that in order to have friends, you must be, and act like a friend.
Wednesday, November 17, 2004
And Speaking of Games....
For you XBOX Halo fans... I finally recieved my copy of HALO 2 and so far everything is thumbs up... way up! It is a great increase over the first game. I did not say improvement because it is hard to improve on Halo the Original but it is a great sequel and the extras and new add ons are great and make it all the more fun.
I really wish there was a way I could make good money playing games or doing living history. Until that time comes, I guess I will have to satisfy myself with making other people rich by buying them and playing them.
Recommended Games of the Moment:
Pirates of the Spanish Main
Mammoth Hunters
RISK 2110 AD
Pirateer!
These are all easy games to learn and play and are excellent for younger players too! (RISK may be a bit hard on kids younger than 13) Go check them out.
Later!
I really wish there was a way I could make good money playing games or doing living history. Until that time comes, I guess I will have to satisfy myself with making other people rich by buying them and playing them.
Recommended Games of the Moment:
Pirates of the Spanish Main
Mammoth Hunters
RISK 2110 AD
Pirateer!
These are all easy games to learn and play and are excellent for younger players too! (RISK may be a bit hard on kids younger than 13) Go check them out.
Later!
30 years of great gaming!!!
This is something I sent to many of my friends back in October when I first discovered the article. It is accompanied by another article that pretty much says the same thing but the last sentence is a hoot! Very well said and you can certainly tell the author is a D&D gamer!!
The National Review is a pretty conservative paper, but it comes as no surprise that even nationally newspaper columnists are "coming out of the closet" about being gamers. Gamers are a billion dollar industry and let's face it, gamer geeks are running the industry now. I personally have very fond memories of my gaming days and I think this guy hits it right on the head of the nail. It was fun and actually beneficial, regardless of what out parents told us....
http://www.nationalreview.com/miller/miller200410151029.asp
And the most recent article from the Boston Globe which also echoes my own sentiments about the game and the influences it had on me and many of my friends.
http://www.boston.com/news/globe/editorial_opinion/oped/articles/2004/11/15/dungeons_and_dragons_we_love_you/
I think it is time to get the books out and start relearning the game.... damned updates and all!
Later!
The National Review is a pretty conservative paper, but it comes as no surprise that even nationally newspaper columnists are "coming out of the closet" about being gamers. Gamers are a billion dollar industry and let's face it, gamer geeks are running the industry now. I personally have very fond memories of my gaming days and I think this guy hits it right on the head of the nail. It was fun and actually beneficial, regardless of what out parents told us....
http://www.nationalreview.com/miller/miller200410151029.asp
And the most recent article from the Boston Globe which also echoes my own sentiments about the game and the influences it had on me and many of my friends.
http://www.boston.com/news/globe/editorial_opinion/oped/articles/2004/11/15/dungeons_and_dragons_we_love_you/
I think it is time to get the books out and start relearning the game.... damned updates and all!
Later!
Friday, November 12, 2004
Michael Moore- The hack... what a loser
Just heard that Michael Moore, producer, director and head whiner of the "documentary" (it's in quote's because documentaries are supposed to be factual) Farenheit 9/11 is planning on making a sequel to it. Apparently he didn't spread enough lies the first time around and thinks it will set the stage for trying to affect the 2008 presidential elections. Geez! Get a grip Mike! You are a loser and more than half of the people don't care what you have to say or lie about and the people who did see your movie are brainless twits anyway! (okay, that is harsh, but they sure seem to be awful gullible) You know, if he tried his hand at making a real documentary, he might be pretty good! It must be really terrible to wake up each morning when you think that everything around you is a scam or a conspiracy. He must have had a horrible childhood. That is what makes Republicans so much different from Democrats. We like to see the good and look on the bright side of humanity. We have goals! We believe in doing our best and if that is not good enough, then trying to better it! I sometimes feel that Democrats really are self - loathing manic depressives! Really! Things are not that bad! Smile once in awhile and embrace life! Have fun! Quit bringing people down. Dang...
Enough already.
Enough already.
Wednesday, November 10, 2004
Gun Owner in Illinois! We Win!
Hey Hey! the Illinois General Assembly did it! They overrode the veto of SB 2161 by the Governor. People in Illinois will now be able to preserve and defend themselves and their families as nature demands and not be punished for doing so! Oh yeah! Common sense prevails!
Monday, November 08, 2004
Gun Owners in Illinois!! Take Note!
In the Legislature in Illinois there is a Senate Bill # 2165 that reinforces an individual's Second Amendment right of self-protection and self-preservation. Overwhelming approved by the General Assembly in the 2004 session, it was vetoed by none other than "Mr. Chicago" himself, Gov. Rod Blagojevich. Basically he believes that if you kill or hurt someone with a gun who is intent on killing you, then you are the bad guy and you should go to jail. However, there is the opportunity for the General Assembly of Illinois to override the Gov's veto in the fall session. Gun owners should call their senators and representatives and tell them to over-ride the veto and support SB 2165. Do it now! (Oh, and tell them to think about Concealed Carry in Illinois. Sooner or later it will happen)
Anybody who wants to come into my home and harm my family will find more than one gun pointed at them...
And now back to regularly scheduled programming.
Anybody who wants to come into my home and harm my family will find more than one gun pointed at them...
And now back to regularly scheduled programming.
First Time out...
Well here is my first Blog posting... Pretty anti-clamatic if you ask me... as the title says, for what it is worth...
Not much to impart upon you at this point. No deep thoughts or insight, other than this weekend I reconfirmed that I was born out of time. I spent the weekend in a 18th century cabin with my wife and a few friends, with very little of modern convienences and loved it. I was amazed as further the sun set, the more tired I was getting as there was little to distract my internal natural clock from beig distracted by the computer, phone, or television. I was ready for bed by 7:30! I was also quite pleased at how relaxed I was able to become, because normally I am not someone who relaxes easilty around the house. I would give just about anything to travel and live the life of an early American of the 1700's or early 1800's. Maybe there will be another reality experiment on PBS the likes of Colonial House, except without the knee jerk liberals and namby pamby iggits that can't leave their issues at the door... that show sucked! But thank God for letting me have a little taste of it and sharing it with my wife and friend.
Anyway... back to the 21st century... Important date tomorrow!!! HALO 2 for XBOX arrives! I will be sitting in front of the TV with my son and daughter killing and maiming religious fanatic aliens as they try to destroy Earth. If it is all of what I have read, then it will be absolutely killer!!! Can't wait!
Well, that's it for post #1.
Later
Not much to impart upon you at this point. No deep thoughts or insight, other than this weekend I reconfirmed that I was born out of time. I spent the weekend in a 18th century cabin with my wife and a few friends, with very little of modern convienences and loved it. I was amazed as further the sun set, the more tired I was getting as there was little to distract my internal natural clock from beig distracted by the computer, phone, or television. I was ready for bed by 7:30! I was also quite pleased at how relaxed I was able to become, because normally I am not someone who relaxes easilty around the house. I would give just about anything to travel and live the life of an early American of the 1700's or early 1800's. Maybe there will be another reality experiment on PBS the likes of Colonial House, except without the knee jerk liberals and namby pamby iggits that can't leave their issues at the door... that show sucked! But thank God for letting me have a little taste of it and sharing it with my wife and friend.
Anyway... back to the 21st century... Important date tomorrow!!! HALO 2 for XBOX arrives! I will be sitting in front of the TV with my son and daughter killing and maiming religious fanatic aliens as they try to destroy Earth. If it is all of what I have read, then it will be absolutely killer!!! Can't wait!
Well, that's it for post #1.
Later
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