neofundamental

Of Presidency and Pro-Lifers

2008-11-09T11:28:00.004-05:00

I haven't posted much concerning my political views on this blog. But when I found out that Obama won the American presidential election, I was ecstatic.

In the meantime, I've been concerned about a trend that I have noticed among evangelical Christians. I might--or might not--have the chance to explain it all in the days to come, but the letter below should give you a hint of what's going on.

Shortly before the 4th, one of my Facebook friends posted a video. I can't remember where it came from (Youtube?). Nevertheless, it features a young black man pontificating about why he would not be voting for Barack Obama. Specifically, he cited Obama's pro-choice stance. Just think of all of those murdered children...

Everything that the young man said was designed to pull on people's heartstrings. It also seemed designed to portray Obama as the embodiment of evil.

I found the video very upsetting. Annoying, actually. In spite of the fact that I'm not comfortable with women having abortions*, I was incensed. I wrote a brief but snarky response to the video. And then, I wrote a note to the person who posted it.

You can read it below.

A,

Unlike most of our correspondence, this note is a serious one. Given the subject matter, I hope that you will pardon me.

I see that you posted a video from a man indicating why he will not be voting for Obama.

I wanted to tell you a *little* bit about the reason why I reacted as I did.

There are some things I have seen from Anti-Obama voters that would make you sick to your stomach. Not pertaining to abortion, but specifically, race. I nearly started to go on about something that I saw that was particularly disturbing--and in my opinion, frightening--but I will spare you. :-/

There are other issues [other reasons why I believe Obama is worthy of support], but again [for now], I won't mention them.

Hence, the reason why whenever I see a non-white anti-Obama supporter on video--especially when they claim to disapprove of Obama (solely) because of his stance on abortion--I first take in the irony. Then, I take what they say with a HUGE grain of salt.

Biased, perhaps. But it's the way I feel, and I don't want to lie to you.

Meanwhile, although I do hold the opinion that a fetus is a child...I'm not entirely comfortable with siding with his opponent.

On the other side of things...When it comes to some of what is being said on this front, I keep wondering...

Who knows what may happen? Who knows the ways in which God will touch Obama's heart in the time to come?

And then there's an additional aspect of the issue. If abortion was outlawed, I firmly believe that people would find a way to do it illegally. I'm not saying that people can't be educated about the practice....But I'm trying to be realistic.

Everyone is very quick to judge and paint an incredibly bleak picture. In the past few days and weeks I have seen the prospect of an Obama presidency bring out the ugly side of people who are supposedly among the faithful.

Why not give the man a bit of grace?

For this reason alone, I'm going to give Obama a chance.

*Personally, I am not comfortable with someone having an abortion unless the fetus was conceived due to a case of rape or incest.

Yes, we DID!!!!!!!!!!

2008-11-05T00:54:00.004-05:00

'Round midnight...Actually sometime earlier than that, one of my roommates knocked on my door. K's got a TV, and we were watching the election.

"I think he won..."

"Eh?"

"He's making a speech..."

The "he", of course, being Barack Obama.

K went out for a smoke. Meanwhile I stood up in her doorway.

All I could do was stand there, hands clasped in front of my face, transfixed.

"Dear Jesus..." It was a plea and a prayer.

"Dear Jesus...Dear Jesus..."

Barack Obama is the president of the United States.

To feel the weight of it...To take it in...

I'll post more on this soon. I promise. ;)

Currently I'm reading...

2008-10-29T14:31:00.001-04:00

The Culturally Savvy Christian.

The first chapter alone is worth the price of the book.

Magic, schmagic.

2008-10-27T17:46:00.003-04:00

(Found via Today On The Interwebs)

I *heart* Harry Potter.

Review : Do Hard Things

2008-10-04T17:24:00.003-04:00

I thoroughly enjoyed this book.

Although directed at teenagers, Joel and Brett (of The Rebelution) have come up with a manifesto that's suitable for readers of all ages.

DHT urges people to go against this culture's tide of advanced slackerism. (Yes, I just made that up.) We live in an age that has gone beyond one that promotes convenience to one that seems to enjoy pushing the idea that young people don't have to make any effort--on nearly any front. From bad grades, to bad behavior, if you're between the ages of 13 to 19, well then, you're in luck! Your age will excuse all ills and acts of stupidity.

The authors encourage (young) people to smarten up. We all have the ability to realize that God didn't put us on this earth to do and be nothing. Mind you, the authors do spend a lot of time talking about young people who are involved in various organizations and/or gaining notoriety in their chosen fields. Yet I came away from the book with the idea that even in the most ordinary moments, each one of us has the opportunity to use our lives. To live well--by making the most of whatever it is we have been blessed with, wherever we are.

These "hard things" that the boys speak of have been dubbed such because our society seems to emphasize the joys of taking the easy way out. Of everything. Indeed, when faced with a challenge, it's often easier to say or do nothing than raise your voice.

Yet we weren't wired that way.

What has apathy and laziness gotten us, apart from a callous culture of disrespect? I sincerely hope that as time goes on, people start to take a look at our culture. And that the tide continues to begin to turn. Do Hard Things is definitely a step in the right direction.

Curious

2008-10-04T16:41:00.001-04:00

I am wondering whether or not there are any resources out there that attempt to address new teachers as human beings.

More and more I am realizing that one of the major keys to being a good teacher is being a balanced person. I keep considering resources on stress management and nutrition in a whole different light, especially now that I have decided to give my profession another go.

I'm also keen on being aware of why teachers leave the profession. Although I'm not in the U.S., some of the things said in this article really hit home.

Balaam Revisited

2008-10-04T16:39:00.000-04:00

The title for this post is taken from the story told in Numbers 22:22-35.

How long am I going to struggle with or against God's plans for me?

It has taken forever for me to realize and recognize that teaching may, indeed, be what the Lord wants me to do with my life. This is my story.

First, a bit of background...

Here in the province of Ontario, Canada, if you want to have a career in education, you must have a Bachelor of Education degree. No ifs, ands, or buts.You can obtain this degree in two ways:

1. Concurrent Education: Earn your B.Ed. by taking credits while you earn your Bachelor of Arts. There are a few schools that offer that option, such as York University.

2. Consecutive Education: Get your B. Ed. after you have your Bachelor of Arts. I took this route. And what a journey it's been...

Almost as soon as I graduated with my BA in 1999, my mother began looking up teachers' colleges.

I thought that she was crazy.

Why on earth would I want to be a teacher? WHY?!?!?!

At the time my mind was set on stubborn."I don't want to work with kids. I want to run away to Toronto and be a writer! Or producer! Or....Or anything but a teacher!"

No, I didn't tell her this. Yes, at the time I meant it.

I felt this way for years, and I struggled. My non-adventures led me to various points along the road to nowhere, including a stint in IT school. (Don't ask.)

Then, one day in the early 2000s....I was unemployed. I remember sitting up in bed. I started asking myself some pointed questions about my future, beginning with, "What did I like to do?" Which led to, "what did I like to do...That people will pay me for?" I figured that if I was going to work, I might as well do something I liked.

Immediately, the answer came into my head. It wasn't like a thunderbolt. More like...A friendly whisper.

Well, Ms. F., there was that time in uni when you volunteered as an ESL tutor. You really enjoyed it...

I smiled to myself. There's something about making a connection with a student...The look on their face when they understand a concept. It's priceless, and somehow I was sure that I wanted to feel that joy all over again.

The next thing I knew, I hit the internet and enrolled in a TESL course.

My eyes were really opened during my practicum. Unlike tutoring, this time around, I worked with a whole group of students. I made that teacher-student comprehension connection with multiple students. And I loved it! Something in my heart truly began to sing.

After completing my TESL, I started to apply for teaching positions with independent schools. And I got one, working with adults.

All this time, the wheels were turning in my head. It was that still, small voice again. You can make a career out of this. A real career.

I decided to take the plunge and looked into getting my B.Ed.There was just one thing stopping me from applying. For any of the schools that I wanted to attend, I needed experience working with young people.

I had NONE.

I mean, apart from my TESL practicum. But as anyone who's walked this road before can tell you, working with young people who have spent their hard earned money to take a class and are interested in learning what you have to offer them is entirely different from working with teenagers who are in their seats because...The law* says they have to be. I panicked for a minute. And then I got busy.

Before to long I found myself at my old school, volunteering with my favorite teacher of all time. His kids were angels. Brilliant, crazy angels. I was in my glory. I used my experience. I applied for my B.Ed. I worked so hard on my application essays and statements, you would have thought I was writing my dissertation.

Acceptance came in the spring of 2004. I had applied to four schools. I was accepted at two, including the place of my dreams. I sent my acceptance of my acceptance off to the appropriate location...And I waited for my adventure to begin.

Teachers' College was incredible. A wonderful nine months. Afterwords, I came out feeling as though I had the world on a string. Surely, I thought I could get any teenager to learn anything I wanted her to.

Then reality set in.

In the winter before graduation, I began to apply for jobs. I got nowhere.

That fall, I went back to my hometown. I returned to one of my pre-B.Ed. teaching jobs: working with adults. I was at a different school than my earlier position, but the duties were almost exactly the same.

Eventually, I applied to work with my local school board. I got in, to work as a substitute.

And sub I did. Although I can count on one hand the times I worked with Grades 7 and 8, 99% of the time, I was with high school students. Yet all the while, something within me felt removed from the situation.

In my head, there was this reel of thoughts...

This is only temporary...You aren't going to be a teacher forever....

Which worked worked directly in combination and occasionally in conflict with this one...

I can't stand these kids....I can't get them to behave...Why am I even bothering?

I worked the substitute beat for a year.

Eventually, I decided to leave my hometown and move to the city.

I spent what felt like forever looking for a job.

Eventually I found one. And then another. Both outside of the field of education. Somehow, none of them was a good fit.

And, after applying multiple times...I was successfully hired by the local school board. Again, to be a substitute teacher.

Meanwhile, I still wanted the elusive permanent job.

I found one, in the shape of a short term contract. I look back on it as a lesson, more than anything else.

I made every mistake. I was inconsistent and a doormat. I smiled before the kids were able to take me seriously. (Are any of you familiar with the adage, "Don't smile before Christmas!"? I share Joel's point of view on this. If I smile too soon, the kids will try to take advantage of me. Yet if I don't smile until Christmas, knowing me...My face would break.)

Teaching is a job that can take over your life. I was not ready. An educator is on a cycle of constant output: Planning, marking, double-checking both their--and their students'--work. Lather, rinse, repeat...It never ends. And I know that I was not prepared to be so incredibly, continuously selfless.

By the end of June, I swore I would never teach again. The thoughts that I used to dismiss during some of my rare, quiet moments speak loudly to me now. Above all I learned that it takes a mature, organized individual to be a teacher. I was neither. But I am working on both. In a way I believe that through teaching, I can become the person that God wants me to be.

Over the summer I remember feeling lucky to have escaped with my life.

But now those thoughts of survival are being replaced. I feel as though God wants to give me a wake-up call. It's as though He's saying "I gave you this gift..." And how could it not be a gift? I got into my dream school to learn how to be a teacher. The more I learn about teaching, the more I know that it is a truly wonderful profession. Something I can truly come to enjoy, in spite of its challenges.

"Are you up for it?"

At long last...I believe I am.

Overall, I realize that I do, indeed want to teach. And it's about more than sharing knowledge. My desire has hit me on a deeper level, pertaining to my life's mission and focus. As I get older I realize that I need to have some stability...Something real in my life. A career can provide me with that. And what is more stable--within reason ;) --than teaching.

None of my "dream" jobs can bring me any true satisfaction. Why do I want to write? Because I have a way with words? Because I want a book of mine to be a Canada Reads finalist? Because I want to win a Giller prize?

I have thought, often, about being an actor or some other type of performer. Yet those who actually make a living in such professions are outnumbered by the wanabees by about a billion to one. Also there is the matter of income. I will be able to support myself. (I hate the way things always come down to money, but...) Once while on the bus, I overheard a man and woman discussing employment-related issues. Eventually, they mentioned pay. Somehow teaching came up. And it was spoken of in a scornful tone. My first thought was, "Were they American?" My second thought was,"Or, are they just paying attention to the media?" We get a ton of American television north of the border. It's very easy for some people to soak it in, and consider the U.S.'s burdens to be our own.

Unlike teachers' salary in the states, in Ontario, teaches are paid decently. Mind you, we are not rolling in money. Yet we receive a decent salary--enough to survive and pay our bills. I once watched an American program featuring a teacher who had taken on a second job to cover her expenses. Unless one is facing extenuating circumstances, typically, there's no reason to do that here.

A few nights ago, I felt driven to write down a two-year plan. I outlined my professional goals step by step.

In my heart and mind, I have never truly been committed to being a successful teacher. Do my thoughts have the ability to decide my fate...? Only time will tell.

I am determined to commit to this new path, and see what the outcome will be.

Contrary to what my blog's title suggests, you aren't going to find information on Christian universities. You will, however, find the rambling chronicles of one who has come to terms with the fact that maybe God really does want me to teach....And now I must rise to the challenge.

Although in my early days, I thought of my newly chosen vocation as a curse...I now consider teaching to be a blessing. A blessing that I have been bestowed with, and which I must grow into, learn to steward, and use wisely. I am here, willing to commit my all in this to the Lord. Let's see what happens.

* "Law" meaning parents, or, the actual law, which stipulates that students must stay in school until they are 16.

And, we're BACK!

2008-10-04T16:36:00.000-04:00

I should have never left this blog alone. I don't know why I did, but ah well...

The next few posts are gonna be transplants from a blog I created earlier this week...Before I decided to go back to my roots.

Stick around!

Postface

2007-04-07T12:27:00.000-04:00

A good time was had by all, it was loud, it was beautiful, and I enjoyed every minute.

I'm so proud of everyone. :)

The Hour - Tony Campolo

2007-04-06T11:24:00.000-04:00

Watch, chil'ren. Learn. This is how you talk to a Christian. Like he's a human being.

This video is also what put me back onto George Stroumboulopoulos. I haven't watched him in ages...Still kicks ass.

Sex. Sermon.

2007-03-31T00:33:00.000-04:00

From Anonymous--sent as a comment...

A link to the feed for Mark Driscoll's speech.

The intro's only a few seconds long.

After Preface comes...

2007-03-27T23:51:00.000-04:00

As it says on the poster, all proceeds go to Freedomize India.

Pause

2007-03-27T21:25:00.000-04:00

If I'm away from this blog long...Don't worry. I'm growing. (Thank God.)

This life is richer and deeper than I realize.

I've come to the city with a lot of ideas...that are being enhanced, or disproven...Or...

*sigh*

Idols are falling. That's for sure.

Re: Writing

2007-03-24T22:59:00.000-04:00

I've been thinking a lot about this post. After receiving encouraging advice from a friend, I intend to expand my thoughts in the days to come.

Praying...

2007-03-24T22:55:00.000-04:00

For guidance, clarity and courage for the days to come.

I hung out with other Christian creative types today. I truly felt as though I was in my element.

I'm in a really good place right now. All I need is the ability to focus...I intend to pursue my passions.

Ya know...

2007-03-16T12:36:00.000-04:00

It doesn't help any that every time I hear this song or see the video, I cry.

2007-03-16T12:33:00.000-04:00

This Too Shall Pass

(Youtube addict coming through...)

God has placed me on higher ground. I wanted celebrate and post the video for "Victory", but I think right now it's more important to reach others who may still be struggling.

I know that a people-pleasing solution to life's problems isn't always guaranteed.

Nevertheless...

TRUST IN THE LORD.

So I've been looking for a good sermon on sex.

2007-03-16T00:47:00.000-04:00

Well.

I have.

I recommend Mark Driscoll's "Good Sex, Bad Sex". It's available somewhere online, I'm sure. I downloaded my copy via iTunes.

Great stuff.

Superthursday

2007-03-16T00:42:00.000-04:00

I have a new job. (It's been days. You have no idea of the faith journey I've been on.)

Tonight, after much agony, my internet connection is up and running. (It's been days. You have no idea...)

;)

Thank you, JESUS.

Last night...

2007-03-12T16:24:00.000-04:00

At church, one of our pastors preached a sermon that really humbled me.

We're continuing our series on the prophets. Yesterday, we heard about Jonah.

A few of my favorite quotes...

"Even though we have been saved from the grave by the wish of a fish, we really don't want it to happen to anyone else." - David

This was the heart of the message that touched me: Sometimes we can be selfish in our desire for God to show His mercy. Save us. Be good to us...Never mind our neighbours.

We humans are a selfish bunch.

Here's another statement, based on Rich Mullins words:

"There's a wideness in God's mercy that I cannot find in my own."

"There is a wideness in God's mercy that I must find in my own."

Those last words were said by Pastor David McGhee.

The Lord wants us to look at our ugliness...and allow Him to change it for His glory.

2007-03-10T11:19:00.000-05:00

Kenneth Eng

How is it that this man got a job at a national newspaper?

TELL ME.

Better yet, how did his so-called work get published?

To a degree, I feel sorry for Mr. Eng. It's evident that whatever abuse he suffered at the hand of bigots has compromised his ability to think sensibly.

I also feel sorry for his parents. Unless they agree with him, I'm sure they're embarrassed.

I mean, honestly. "I Hate Blacks", "I Hate Whites", "I Hate Asians". Who writes such articles?!? How did they get past his editor's desk?

*shakes head*

2007-03-09T16:59:00.000-05:00

Jesus Saves.

Indeed He does. Lately I've been finding reminders of my faith in the most peculiar places. This video is one of the latest...It's weird. Almost as though God is saying to me, "No matter how secular you think you're being, I WILL find you."

Brilliance from my other blog. - DRAFT

2007-03-08T12:42:00.000-05:00

Elsewhere I was complaining about the state of relations re young Christian men and women. The Lovely Lisa wrote this bit of fantabulousness:

“…It's not everyone, but I think the majority of Christian men I know were raised to think that their ultimate purpose is to be king of some girl's household(1) and the steward of the feminine mystery(2) or whatever-- with the result that all these guys are scared as hell of women. And the women were raised to think that their ultimate purpose is to become a WIFE(3), and they're scared as hell of being left behind unwanted(4). The result? Everyone is afraid of one another(5), we can't work together(6), and Sex is the Big Bad that we're all obsessed with and afraid of(7). So instead of getting anything done for the Kingdom like brothers and sisters(8), we waste our time fretting about dating, sex, and being alone(9).”

These words got my mind racing. The above paragraph is rife with excellent material. I’ve numbered my ramblings, as though they were footnotes. Enjoy!

1) What are Christian men taught these days about women, save for the fact that they’re supposed to marry us? (Better yet, what are we taught about men?) Please, please, for the love of Pete, don’t go solely by what you read in Every Man’s Battle. (Or Wild at Heart—a book that I actually like.) If EMB is anything like Every Women’s Battle, then we’re in trouble, because the feminine struggles depicted in EWB aren’t representative of any of the women I that I know.

Among the most annoying Christian myths about women? Supposedly, we don’t have libidos. Or we do, but the only way a man can turn us on is if he takes out the trash. It only gets stupider from there...

Do Christian men get told anything about us other than they have to be prepared because we women are some sort of...Obligation? They've got to support us financially, give us sex...Er...I mean "affection"...But only when and in the manner in which we expect it...Blah blah blahcakes.
Look, boys and girls....

Stop reading books about how we are, or who we’re supposed to be. Get out there, and LIVE! Get to know each other. Like it or not, honest or otherwise, what we ingest shapes our thinking. If you’re gonna read anything, consider the scriptures. Everything else pales in comparison.

2) Re "steward of the feminine mystery". Something about that phrase cracks me up. I have an image in my head of a man. His voice is stern, saying, "I am Edward, keeper of Angela's panties". Yet I know what Lisa means, in that the image I mentioned might as well be a real one, for all of the ridiculousness that's out there.

What do women expect from men? I can’t speak for my sisters. As for me, I want a guy who isn’t afraid to be…A guy.

Meanwhile, I wonder what gentlemen want in return.

3) <*whispering*>I don’t actually have a problem with being a wife. I’d love (LOVE!) to be a SAHM. But. [And why the hell am I whispering?] I’m an intelligent being with outside interests and an intellect besides. And if Mister Man thinks I’m gonna bake bonbons 24/7 and do nothing other than shine Big Daddy’s shoes and say “Yes, Dear” to his every whim and fancy, well…He’s got another thing coming.

Maybe.

I have questions about what it is exactly that men want their wives to do. I mean, if I was to stay home...

You know what? I think I need to worry about answering those questions when and if I meet my husband. (But it would be good to get a dialogue going. Maybe I should develop a survey.)

Most importantly, though…As old fashioned as some of my domestic aspirations may be, I am no man’s Stepford Wife.

Or am I...?

No matter.

Either way, I do not intend to align myself with a fool: I recall reading an online post by a woman who was upset with her FH. The reason? He wanted her to be a stay at home wife and mother. He was adamant. Yet fiscally, there was no way that they could afford it.

God may have created men and women. He also created common sense.

Conversely, I don’t have any trouble with working outside of the home. It all depends on who God brings into my life.

4) I’m beyond being worried about being unwanted. I believe deeply that God has someone out there for me. If not, then…I’ll cross that bridge.

5) I agree. I DO think that young Christian men and women are afraid of each other. I don’t think that many of us (them) have realistic expectations. There are, however, plenty of fanciful, unrealistic ideas.

I'd wager that people are torn regarding where our priorities lie. We are in the world, yet not to be of it. Therein lies the challenge.

6) I’m concerned about our inability to work together and see each other as human beings. (I say “our” having been just as guilty as anyone else.) I know there’s talk of the world’s objectification of the sexes, particularly women. Well…I think that Christian culture objectifies men and women as well.

This goes back to my remark elsewhere about those who don’t want to relate unless they’re going to have relations...

*sigh*

7) Sex as “the big bad”. Obsessed with? Yes. Afraid of? Bah! As Todd would say, “Bring it!!” :p

On a more serious note I think that young people these days don’t give sex the respect it deserves. A friend of mine recently scared and disappointed me with a reality check concerning sex. Namely, that Christian men pressure their girlfriends. (Or maybe they pressure each other?? I don't have a clue.) Quite frankly, I find this quite off-putting. I don't believe in pre-marital sex. Previously, I'd taken it for granted that all evangelicals felt the same way.

In this season of new-found community, I have come to feel safe. I remember when I fist joined my church, only one of my pastors was married. I found comfort in that idea....I had faith in the notion that finding a godly man was possible. “There is someone out there for me who respects my morals…”

This is not to say that I am a hormone-less waif, bereft of any and all urges. Quite the contrary.

Yet I’ll tell you one thing. I don’t want a man who loves himself more than he loves God.

8) We need to view each other as whole human beings.

9) There are three points I’d like to address here: a) I shudder at the idea of dating. (And no, not because of I Kissed Dating Goodbye.) b)Lord willing, I’m not going to have sex ‘til I’m married. And c) I’m used to being alone.

Beyond the points which I responded directly to above, I was led to a deeper question:

Why do I want a husband?

I challenge anyone reading this—ask yourself: WHY do you want a husband or wife? Is it because like an education, steady income, and internet access, we think companionship is something we’re entitled to? Is a spouse a right, rather than a God-given privilege? Is it ‘cause, hey, “It’s about time?”

(You can’t get away with running your life on your schedule. When it comes to matters such as love and marriage, God’s controlling the Palm Pilot.)

Or is it because there’s a love in your heart that you long to give, to share with someone else? To grow in grace and in God, together.

(That may sound corny. But I mean it sincerely.)

*sigh*

When it comes to relationships, I believe that a new model needs to be established. Taking a page from Kerri Pomarolli and Lauren Winner…Not every Christian couple hooks up fresh out of high school. I’m just becoming aware of the nuances of relationships. (If I continue to write on this topic, please bear with me. I'm a bit naive. But at least I'm honest.)

I firmly believe that many single Christian men and women—from their mid twenties into their thirties and beyond—do not have enough of the support that they require.

Damned 'fro Part Dos

2007-03-07T19:42:00.000-05:00

Well, I went to Interview #1. I looked good, not at all like a hot mess.

I don't know what's gotten into me since I was emancipated.*

(Actually I do. It's Jesus.<*grin*>)

Some strange, comfortable confidence has taken over.

Back in the day, I used to approach interviews in a rather genuflect manner. I might as well have been saying...

"Lawd a-mercy. Massa, I's wundrin' if yuh could fin' it in yo' big ol' heart to lemme work fo' yuh."

But since last week, it's been...

"Hello. Your advertisement piqued my interest. I think I could make a great contribution to your organization. Let's chat."

And for the first time in my life, this quiet sense of calm goes beyond my resume and cover letter. I feel it inside. Deeply.

Mi madre likes to remind me that interviewing is a two-way transaction. An employer may ask the bulk of the questions. Yet you, as the interviewee, are assessing your employer.

(Thoughts after Interview #2)

"...assessing your employer."

Ain't that the truth. I just came from my second interview--Interview #4, if you consider that it's the fourth one I've had since last week--and I don't think I belong there at all.

One thing I've come to despise in interviews is when the interviewers take it upon themselves to play "bad cop" and get on with an air of arrogance, as if to say, "I'm not sure you're good enough...I'm not sure you're right for us."

Last week, Interviewer #1 had the temerity to tell me that she was concerned about whether or not I had sufficient experience. The job I'd applied for was not beyond my range of skill.

Regarding today and Interview #4...My interviewers kept harping on the fact that I haven't taught younger kids. Truth be told, save for one day's work, I don't have experience with children under the age of 12. Mind you, I could have been a dishonest reprobate and said, "Well...There was this one time..." But what would've been the point?

What has me incensed right now is that with his colleauge standing by, Gentleman Interviewer said to me,"You could have started working with young kids from the age of 15 or 16 at summer camp."

Now...He did his best to sound polite. But plus or minus 1 or 2 words, that's what Mr. Interviewer told me. And he said it as though he honestly thought there was something wrong with me for not having had a summer camp job.

No offense to any of you who spent your adolescent summers stoking fires at Camp Kokatemagamite. But...

When I was a teenager, I was even more of a loner than I am now. I barely knew or cared that summer camps existed. Never mind thinking about working at one.

Which is neither here nor there right now.

I'll close with this statement:

Dear Future Employer,

Let me explain myself. I am not arrogant. I am confident. I am educated. I am passionate and ambitious. I am well aware that teaching is a stressful, challenging profession.

Yet with all due respect, it is NOT rocket science.

If you're going to treat me as a competent professional, rest assured, your courtesy is appreciated.

If, however, during an interview, you feel compelled to act as though I need a PhD in Klingon phonology in order to get by, then really. Let's not waste each other's time.

Sincerely,

Me

*Last Tuesday, my employer and I parted ways. Don't feel bad. It was a terrible fit. I wanted to quit, but couldn't find the words. Thankfully, God took one look at me and said, "Let's stop this foolishness RIGHT NOW." And by foolishness, I mean BS.

Congratulations!!

2007-03-07T12:49:00.000-05:00

One of my darling online friends, Sha, is getting married!!

Damn Afro.

2007-03-07T11:41:00.000-05:00

I have two interviews this afternoon.

I've just spent this morning...THE ENTIRE BLOODY MORNING...detangling my hair.

I don't know what the hell happened. Recently, I'd gotten my routine down to about an hour.

A change is due. I'm thinking by this weekend.

Something that's still natural but just...Different.

Somewhere in New York...

2007-03-07T08:39:00.000-05:00

An East Indian family is getting a good laugh. As am I.

"Wake up, Mr. West...."

I marvel at these people who feel compelled to spend a bajillion dollars for things that local folks can whip up for a fraction of the price.

Not that I'd charge Kanye mere pennies. But still...

That restaurant must serve one hell of a feast.

Found on Dawn Eden's blog.

2007-03-06T18:15:00.000-05:00

Feeling too posh to post*, I offer the following.

The next thing you know, conservatives will be responsible for global warming.

Or perhaps we are? Someone enlighten me.

*A play on words, alluding to "Too posh to push". Anyone remember that trend?

So what?

2007-03-06T14:11:00.000-05:00

What are all of these pithy pious platitudes worth without a solid foundation? After much contemplation of what's missing in my life, I've decided to go back to basics. May I never turn away...

I have two Bible translations and a shiny new copy of How to Read the Bible for All Its Worth. Looking forward to expanding my horizons. Although long familiar with Christianity, I fear that my scriptural knowledge is cursory.

Besos.

The Boondocks - "Return of The King"

2007-03-06T13:22:00.000-05:00


"...Martin Luther King comes out of a coma after 32 years and finds himself thrust into the 21st century and life in the post-September 11 era..." Need I say more? My favorite part? MLK's speech, around the 20-minute mark. But don't skip over to it--you'll miss other magic moments....

More...

2006-09-30T12:35:00.000-04:00

On men compared to women.

It looks like they went there last night. Jenny McCarthy was featured in a segment which claimed that when it comes to sex and the libido, we women are like "slow cooking stoves" (paraphrasing). Versus men, who are--supposedly--perpetually horny.

My take on the issue?

There are definite gender differences. This is the wonder of how God made us. Yet all women and all men aren't different in the same ways.

All last night's program seemed to do was provide the media sheep out there with more food. :-/

Flawed analysis

2006-09-29T22:26:00.000-04:00

Further to my preceding post...

20/20 mentioned the age-old "men think about sex all the time...women hardly ever" stereotype. I'm stereotyping. But you get the point.

I disagree. It reminds me of that Christian book/TV show that I encountered which states that "men are like microwaves...women are like crock pots".

I suspect others will find variations re what they do and don't identify with.

Psssssssssssst!

2006-09-29T22:16:00.000-04:00

NEWS FLASH!!

Men and women? They're different.

Our contemporary culture is ashamed of pointing out the nuances of God's design for human beings. I kept rolling my eyes as John Stossel basically apologized for the content of tonight's 20/20.

The general public seems to be ashamed of virtually everything that the Lord created.

Sickening.

I can hear it now. TPTB at that show are going to be called "sexist" and other names...For doing nothing more than pointing out the truth.

Recognition

2006-09-23T15:39:00.000-04:00

They say that recognizing a problem is the first step to recovery. Here's a conclusion I came to last night...

I have been angry about where God has placed me. I have allowed myself to live off of the resentment of Another. This person's sense of contempt for their circumstance has been my own.

I find myself longing for God to fill my empty spaces...

"This I know..."

2006-09-21T18:05:00.000-04:00

Do you remember being a child in Bible School, singing, "Jesus loves me, this I know..."?

I do.

It is only now at 30, that I am coming to a greater understanding of my purpose in His world.

I believe I am here to contribute to a community of believers and to be...Busy.

That sounds simple enough. Silly, even. Yet I've lived my life the opposite way with little satisfaction. I have lived selfishly and secretly. In today's world, they overuse the terms "being a recluse" or "private person" to explain this phenomenon.

And what have I contributed to any community, let alone a Christian one? While in Toronto, for a time, I gave a bit of my time...I formed friendships with other Christians. Yet here at home? Nothing.

With God's help, that will change soon.

He is opening my eyes. For years I have been SO sure that I could not be happy unless I moved away. But bit by bit, I am learning that that is not necessarily the case.

I never thought I'd say this. But today I was at a point where I failed to see the point in forging ahead with my agenda. I actually said, "I don't think I want to leave". And who knows? Perhaps here in my small town...Maybe this is exactly where God wants me to be.

Tonight...

2006-09-18T21:40:00.000-04:00

Was ladies' craft night at my local church. Even though I've been procrastinating re some knitting of mine, I didn't go.

I sit here sniffling. I've been blowing my nose every minute or so. I blame my absence it on my health. Yet a greater issue is called to mind.

In church...In fellowship with other Christians...I have an opportunity to embrace the fullness that the Lord wants me to claim.

I feel as though He is breaking me down, piece by piece. For, I have avoided devoting myself to a place of worship since I cam back home last year.

Who knows what Jesus has in store for me...

Food for Thought

2006-09-18T21:29:00.000-04:00

on the recent controversy regarding Islam and the Pope. From Challies Dot Com:

"if you want to undo stereotypes the best way of doing so is not to blame a person who supposedly reinforces a negative stereotype, but in reacting in a way that different than the stereotype."

Click for more.

I want to continue feeling good about Muslims. I know better than to believe that they are altogether horrible. Yet stories such as these don't do anything to help their cause...

Begin Again.

2006-09-18T14:39:00.000-04:00

Yesterday I went to church. It was my second consecutive Sunday in a row.

God is shaping me. Opening me up, preparing me for something.

I'm becoming His more and more each day.

Dear Jesus

2006-09-16T18:57:00.000-04:00

It would be the sweetest dream come true
If I could use my words for You...

I would love to focus and find a way to use my abilities as a writer for the glory of God. But I have the attention span of a two-year-old.

Praying for wisdom on this...I actually started a novel years ago.

Back to me.

2006-09-09T18:25:00.000-04:00

Or back to He.

"He" being God.

I feel like I should step up and make a commitment.

When I was in Toronto I joined a church. I completed their membership series and started attending regularly.

Here at home, I can't even get my ass out of bed on Sunday morning. There's one within spitting distance of my house. What is wrong with me?

I know I've felt bothered by what certain others think.

But the words of a friend come to mind. We were discussing a different circumstance. She noted that I'm a "grown woman". And I am.

I should only care about what GOD thinks.

Church

2006-09-03T21:55:00.000-04:00

I really need to go.

My soul screams to know what Jesus has in store for me. But how can I know when I'm so far from Him?

Not Alone

2006-09-03T11:16:00.000-04:00

Recently I confessed to being an adultescent. I have tried and failed more than once to obtain genuine adult status.

I do not care to share the details of my latest failure. Although for me, it was huge. And heartbreaking.

I feel as though there is only so much of me left. My adult life seems to consist of little more than dreams deferred or destroyed.

There is only one way that I know out.

An aunt of mine says I need "Divine intervention". This was not said in jest or as a cliche. And though I know she spoke the truth, I cannot help feeling 1000 shades of stupid.

We human beings are so ego-driven, it's pathetic. I hate that I keep having to return to God whenever I need help, begging, like a child. Somehow I feel so humiliated.

And yet also, I find myself relieved. None of us was meant to share the burdens of this life alone.

There is only one way out from where I am. And God holds the key.

Confession

2006-09-01T16:54:00.000-04:00

This is, Lord willing, my last year of Adultesence. (A term I hadn't come across prior to reading The Rebelution.)

I won't go into details. But I've gotten a bit lazy about forging my own future. And I've come to regret it.

Only God can get me out of this. I hope to keep you posted...

Lord, Lord, Lord...

2006-09-01T16:38:00.000-04:00

Who am I? What do I want? What am I really clinging to?

My most recent dream fell apart. As I look ahead, the words of a loved one come to mind. "You can't do this alone."

Indeed. It seems that the Lord remains the one I run back to, time after time.

Why do I always let myself go? Why do I keep hitting this wall?

And although I have elt myself down, He is, slowly but surely, building me back up.

Introducing...

2006-08-19T14:45:00.000-04:00

Windows Live Writer (Beta).

I'm just trying it out. Seeing if it works.

How about you? Have any of you given it a shot?

The Comedian's Rite of Passage...

2006-08-18T17:01:00.000-04:00

Seems to be playing roles in which they are characters in other people's fantasies.

So it was with Jim Carrey and The Truman Show.

So it is with Will Ferrell and Stranger Than Fiction.

I've been wasting a bit of time, watching trailers on Apple's site. I thought Stranger... had a cool premise. But when I was finished, something struck me.

I thought "Hey. Didn't....do that? In...?"

"Keepin' It Real" - The State of (North) American Beauty

2006-08-08T18:50:00.000-04:00

Recently on TWoP, I was in the America's Next Top Model forum. I was checking out people's comments re the winner of this spring's past cycle--Danielle "Danny" Evans.

Some of the commentary has been quite interesting. A few people have made remarks re the state of Ms. Evans' breasts in the photo I've posted.

(No. They weren't those kind of comments.)

I'm speaking of a few surprising negative comments. I say "negative" here, as I don't consider "saggy" "sagging" or any variation thereof to be complimentary.

(FWIW, I think Danielle looks gorgeous. And perfectly normal.)

Thankfully, someone posted a "real breasts" reminder. And yet...I couldn't help feeling a little dismayed by what I read.

The discussion reminded me of a passage in Real Sex by Lauren F. Winner. Do people even know what a real woman looks like anymore? How accustomed to fantasy have we become, that we scorn reality?

Members of the public are so used to women being full of silicone and taped up, that when a normal one comes along, she's considered weird.

It's a shame. I almost fear for my future. When my DH sees me naked for the first time, what will he say? Will he take me as I am, or expect a silicone-based fantasy.

How to Suppress Discussions of Racism.

2006-08-04T15:01:00.000-04:00

HA!

Dare me to move...

2006-08-04T13:10:00.000-04:00

Well, I've done it. :)

Recently I applied to teach abroad. My interviews have come and gone. Thus far, I've heard nothing back. I need to know what's going to become of me. I'll follow up with my recruiter soon.

Getting away is a huge opportunity. Yet a part of me is terrified.

In Toronto?

2006-07-20T18:30:00.000-04:00

My pal Joni is in a show...

BFTP: The Bachelor - Still Single

2006-06-18T12:03:00.000-04:00

I wish I could say it was a surprise.

In the story that I linked to above, Sarah Stone mentions "the baggage that comes from being on this show" (emphasis added) as a factor which contributed to the failure of her "relationship" with Dr. Stork. I'm glad that she said it. It gives me hope that people who actually appear on the show realize what they're getting into. Nothing about The Bachelor is natural.

Honestly. What do people expect? Take a group of women, engage them in some rather contrived liaisons with one member of the opposite sex....

I remember it was during either the first or second incarnation of the show that I privately referred to The Bachelor as That Guy and His Harem.

If you want a love that's built to last, at the very least, I believe you need at least two things:

1. Privacy. By this, I do not mean that you should have a "secret" lover that only you and your poodle know about. But you shouldn't have cameras capable of broadcasting your every move 24-7, either.

2. Exclusivity. Who in their right mind expects to build a lasting relationship while her prospective mate is mixing and mingling with at least half a dozen other women? WHO!?!

The series has run at least....I'm guessing eight times by now. And out of those, only one of the so-called couples has been successfully married.

I will not deny that I am a bit of a voyeur. I have been entertained on more than one occasion while watching The Gaggle of Girls and Their Boy-Toy. But in all seriousness, I remain irritated. Shows such as The Bachelor epitomize everything that is wrong with relationships today. Namely, people want quick, easy lovin'. And they expect such an approach to earn them long-lasting, near-fairy-tale results.

True love grows. It is not like the latest microwavable treat--good to go in an instant.

Best From The 'Press

2006-06-18T11:53:00.000-04:00

So, friends, I've been a flip-flopper. And ultimately, Wordpress and I had a fight, and I've decided to return to Blogger.

I made a few posts there that I'm going to repost here in a brief series called Best From The 'Press. (Mind you, I doubt I'll actually exclude any posts. But that was the best title I could think of at the time. ;) )

From the backyard...

2006-06-18T11:47:00.000-04:00

Spring blossoms, circa May of this year.

"Don't you want to be a writer?"

2006-06-18T11:42:00.000-04:00

I'm paraphrasing, but basically, this is what my mother asked me recently. She's noticing that I've been neglecting my dreams.

Is it any wonder that I've been feeling a bit hollow lately?

Plus, summer's coming up. Anything can happen! LOL.

Save the Wheel: The Solution

2006-04-23T18:21:00.000-04:00

Was I right? Or was I...?

Last year I learned that Joshua Harris was working with some people who had launched a campaign to "Save the Wheel". But what, pray tell, was this beloved "wheel"?

Well.

Visiting New Attitude's site, the solution was finally posted. If you've been reading me for a while, you might have noticed that I called it, way back in October.

Yay me.

United 93

2006-04-22T20:22:00.000-04:00

I can't believe they made this movie.

I don't know what to think. I don't know if I think it's disrespectful or not. A part of me feels insulted. And another part of me wants to see United 93, just to see how TPTB handled their material...

When I watched the trailer, I felt nauseous. It took me right back to where I was and what I saw on 9/11/01.

Good Grief

2006-04-22T18:47:00.000-04:00

I miss Blogger.

That said, I think I'm going to move my blog back to the place of its origin. I feel a bit immature for doing so, but I'm entitled to change my mind.

So ultimately...What does this mean? What about the month or so worth of posts that I typed elsewhere?

Well.

Um.

One day when I'm free...Or just when I feel like it...I'll do a bunch of copy-and-pasting.

MOVED!

2006-03-12T17:42:00.000-05:00

I still have to settle a few quirks in the system. But I've recently imported my posts and moved to http://neofundamental.wordpress.com

ALERT!!

2006-03-09T20:05:00.000-05:00

I'm moving. I think.

Will post my new URL sometime soon.

Falling Away

2006-03-09T19:30:00.000-05:00

I know that I serve a jealous God. I could feel his presence yesterday afternoon. I felt compelled to stop, drop everything, return to my room, and pray.

Indeed, it was just what my spirit needed. I look forward to seeking refuge again this evening.

My life runs in cycles. And as I get older I see the futility in so many things...

*sigh*

Brokeback's...Broken.

2006-03-06T07:46:00.000-05:00

Well...Maybe not. But they sure didn't win Best Picture.

I didn't watch the Oscars last night. Heck, I might as well confess. I'm almost positive that I haven't seen any of the nominated movies. There was something about last night's show that made me stay away. Perhaps I wasn't in the mood for Jon Stewart's sarcasm. Or maybe I was peeved because Desperate Housewives--or, more importantly--Grey's Anatomy--wasn't on because of last night's statuefest.

Yet for some reason, when I woke up this morning, my brain was Oscar-hungry. Who won? Tellmetellmetellme!!!

I tried the local Christian radio station, the hip-hop-rock-whateverteenswant station, and even the local adult contemporary station. No such luck.

Relief came, as usual, from a Toronto-based source. 680 News.

Apparently there was an upset at the Oscars last night. <*rolling eyes*> Brokeback Mountain didn't claim Best Pic. That honor went to Crash.

The little girl inside of me did her happy dance. If I was a betting woman, I would've been rich.

Don't misunderstand me. While I am well aware of what the Bible says about homosexuality, my line of thinking on the subject does not go to ridiculous extremes.

I was, quite frankly, tired of all of the hype. It was as though people expected Brokeback to win on its gayness alone. Quite honestly in my opinion, from all that I'd seen and heard...At the end of the day, Brokeback Mountain was about an illicit affair. Old hat in Hollywood. Meanwhile, Crash? From what I hear, Crash was a true work of innovative storytelling. A rarity in La-La Land, well worth the price of admission.

"This Too Shall Pass"

2006-03-01T15:59:00.000-05:00

A couple of years ago I signed up for Yolanda Adams' mailing list. They sent me a note today. I didn't pay attention at first. But God gave me the good sense to give it a second look.

The message contained a link for Yolanda's latest video, "This Too Shall Pass". (It's also available on her site.) What a blessing!! This song couldn't have come to me at a better time.

I attended a funeral earlier today. It was for someone who used to be very close to me. I loved her dearly. And though we live(d) in the same small town, I haven't seen her for a few years. All I could think coming home from the service is, "What is wrong with me?". Too much time was wasted, and now it's too late.

And then there's my career. After a few months of working as a substitute teacher, I believe it's time to move on. I would love to have my own classroom. I pine away for it. Dream about it.

To compound matters, I live with someone who seems dedicated to harassing me about my conviction to remain true to myself. No one wants to hire me, supposedly, because of my short, nappy, natural hair.

The animosity that I have come to endure is from someone who has never been in the interviewinterviews with me. She has no idea of the anxiety that I feel.

I have an interview tomorrow for a position. Do you know what I've been doing? Studying, as though in preparation for an exam.

And pass or fail, I am confident that over 50% of my responses will sound intelligent.

I'm so glad I listened to "This Too Shall Pass". Because one day, when I'm hired and this time is over, I shall laugh at the pain. For now there are moments when all I want to do is cry. And I'm tired of those.

I need to get beyond this place. Beyond where I am professionally and personally. Not having a steady job can be nerve-wracking. For, I know that God is carrying me. Yet when I fall on hard times, I feel as though I am about to break. And I'm tired of feeling so fragile.

Beware of Travis Frey

2006-03-01T14:35:00.000-05:00

A little while ago on the radio, I heard about someone named Travis Frey. Mr. Frey is a man who, among other things, prepared a "Contract of Wifely Expectations" for his spouse. As the DJ went over a few of the details, I remember...I could barely believe my ears. And when I came across the document just now, I could barely believe my eyes.

Bulletin - via myspace

2006-03-01T13:40:00.000-05:00

I found this in my bulletin box on myspace today.

What does Love mean?

A group of professional people posed this question to a group of 4 to 8 year-olds, "What does love mean?" The answers they got were broader and deeper than anyone could have imagined.

See what you think:

"When my grandmother got arthritis, she couldn't bend over and paint her toenails anymore. So my grandfather does it for her all the time, even when his hands got arthritis too. That's love."
Rebecca- age 8

"When someone loves you, the way they say your name is different. You just know that your name is safe in their mouth."
Billy - age 4

"Love is when a girl puts on perfume and a boy puts on shaving cologne and they go out and smell each other."
Karl - age 5

"Love is when yo u go out to eat and give somebody most of your French fries without making them give you any of theirs."
Chrissy -age 6

"Love is what makes you smile when you're tired."
Terri - age 4

"Love is when my mommy makes coffee for my daddy and she takes a sip before giving it to him, to make sure the taste is OK."
Danny - age 7

"Love is when you kiss all the time. Then when you get tired of kissing, you still want to be together and you talk more. My Mommy and Daddy are like that. They look gross when they kiss"
Emily - age 8

"Love is what's in the room with you at Christmas if you stop opening presents and listen."
Bobby - age 7 (Wow!)

"If you want to learn to love better, you should start with a friend who you hate,"
Nikka - age 6 (we need a few million more Nikka's on this planet)

"Love is when you tell a guy you like his shirt, then he wears it everyday."
Noelle - age 7

"Love is like a little old woman and a little ol d man who are still friends even after they know each other so well."
Tommy - age 6

"During my piano recital, I was on a stage and I was scared. I looked at all the people watching me and saw my daddy waving and smiling. He was the only one doing that. I wasn't scared anymore."
Cindy - age 8

"My mommy loves me more than anybody . You don't see anyone else kissing me to sleep at night."
Clare - age 6

"Love is when Mommy gives Daddy the best piece of chicken."
Elaine-age 5

"Love is when Mommy sees Daddy smelly and sweaty and still says he is handsomer than Robert Redford."
Chris - age 7

"Love is when your puppy licks your face even after you left him alone all day."
Mary Ann - age 4

"I know my older sister loves me because she gives me all her old clothes and has to go out and buy new ones."
Lauren - age 4

"When you love somebody, your eyelashes go up and down and little stars come out of you." (what an imagination)
Karen - age 7

"Love is when Mommy sees Daddy on the toilet and she doesn't think it's gross."
Mark - age 6

"You really shouldn't say 'I love you' unless you mean it. But if you mean it, you should say it a lot. People forget."
Jessica - age 8

And the final one -- Author and lecturer Leo Buscaglia once talked about a contest he was asked to judge. The purpose of the contest was to find the most caring child.

The winner was a four year old child whose next door neighbour was an elderly gentleman who had recently lost his wife. Upon seeing the man cry, the little boy went into the old gentleman's yard, climbed onto his lap, and just sat there. When his Mother asked what he had said to the neighbour, the little boy said, "Nothing, I just helped him cry"

When there is nothing left but God, that is when you find out that God is all you need.

Ode to Casey-Jo

2006-02-28T13:36:00.000-05:00

Years ago, I nearly ruined my afro by doing a terrible job of cutting it myself. Lucky for me, my mother came to my rescue. As she went about her business with her clippers, she said something that stuck with me.

“A haircut shouldn’t look like an apology.”

Hilarious, but true.

Those words came to mind as I was taken in by bits and pieces of the Much Music VJ Search last night. I chose to watch because of the previews. They suggested some racial tension might be brewing. (Supposedly Erik used a racial slur against Frank. But from what I saw, no footage was shown (taken?) to back up Frank’s claim.) However, while I came for the promised mini race-war, I stayed for the debacle that was…The VJ Makeovers.

Which brings me to the focus of this entry. Casey-Jo. I have to ask the people at Much one question: What were you thinking? For those who didn’t see it, essentially, these are the basics: The VJ hopefuls were whisked off to a uberchic salon to be transformed for a photo shoot. I’m talking the works: Hair, makeup, clothes.

Clips were deftly interspersed—there was the fashion stylist, the hair stylists, VJ wannabes, etc. Of particular interest was the head hair stylist…er…Visionary, Jie Matar, of Salon Jie (pronounced like a soft, buzzing, "G"). He commented on the wannabe VJs and their attitudes.

Mr. Matar complained quite a bit regarding Casey-Jo. In fact, as far as I could tell, she was the only one he really had anything negative to say about. Apparently, unlike her contemporaries, CJ wasn’t grateful, blah, blah, blah…

Unbeknownst to the people at Jie, given the way they made her look, if I was in CJ’s place, “grateful” would have been the least of their worries.

Casey-Jo’s haircut was hideous. I don’t care how cutting-edge any fashionista said it was. You know that adage about the right thing at the wrong time…? Well, the right hairdo on the wrong person is just wrong. Period.

Yet the coverage of CJ’s reaction….I don’t know what to make of Jie’s comments. His minion made CJ look preposterous. Her only consolation? As mentioned on the show, “Hair grows…”

In the end, I applaud Casey-Jo. She strikes me as one who doesn’t believe in putting up with anyone’s crap. Honestly. What did the people at MuchMusic expect her to do? Smile and act nice?

I recognize the footage last night might have been hewn together in an attempt to make Casey-Jo seem like an ungrateful little waif. Instead, it made Jie, and (inadvertently) MuchMusic, seem arrogant and presumptuous. “I am a styling superstar. You must approve of my decisions, no matter how ghastly I make you look. After all, I am a Big Name, no?”

No.

It’s a pity Casey-Jo probably signed a waiver/contract to be on the MMVJS. If it was me…Hmmm....Let's look at the facts...You made a fool out of me on national television...And your editing team did their best to make me look like a whiny harpy. Failing miserably, I might add.

I don’t know who I would have to get in touch with. But someone would be getting sued.

You're kidding me, right? RIGHT?

2006-02-28T12:44:00.000-05:00

One of my favorite authors, Josh Harris, has two younger brothers. They have a blog.

I just read this entry, and I'm still stunned by the details. Apparently, down the road, Ms. Stacy Dow, of Scotland, might have a talk with her daughter explaining her existence. For, you see, young Jayde was born by accident due to an unsuccessful abortion. (She's suing the hospital and everything.) The Harris boys quote another blogger's solemn commentary. He says, "Try to imagine the conversation..."

And in truth, as soon as I read that, my mind actually considered such an absurdity.

Stacy (to Jayde): Honey, I have tragic news regarding your birth. The doctors screwed up. They were only able to abort your twin sister, but somehow they made a mistake when it came to you...You shouldn't even be here in the first place.
Where is this woman's head? How could she possibly think that these circumstances warrant a mother-daughter talk?

Olympic Thoughts

2006-02-26T15:47:00.000-05:00

Watching the closing of the Torino/Turin 2006 Games. Canada's hosting the 2010 Winter Games (Woohoo!). And now...A question:

Why was Avril* doing an impression of Alanis?

You'd have to have heard her to know what I mean.

*Better yet, why does Google state that Avril's official URL is www.garbage.com? It's true. I typed "Avril Lavigne", and that's the first link that appeared. By the time you read this, I hope they will have fixed the problem.

How is it...?

2006-02-22T18:40:00.000-05:00

How is it that we go on this way? And just who are we? Day by day, I find myself consumed by thoughts of love. And more. I am consumed by trying to comprehend this madness, and this beauty, into which we have been...Inserted.

Inserted? Does that make sense? Because I know that I and we are here with reason. Too often, my senses fail to comprehend the plan behind it. God creates nothing if not for something. Am I making sense? The only soul I care to feed as I type this randomness is my own. Yet I want to share my methodless madness with someone, as I believe deeply that my strangeness is another's sanity.

Why do so many of us attempt to defy human nature, insisting that we can do all alone? For we are better together. I say this in earnest, though I risk dragging you into my mire. Are you inspired? For, I love my solitude. Crave it, when others insist that they must follow the crowd. Yet I long for like-minded beings to mingle with, to commune with. It's as Alanis once said in song, "...and what I wouldn't give, to meet a kindred."

Kindred.

Calling to mind my childhood and my favorite book Anne of Green Gables, and how she, Anne, used to speak of wanting to meet a kindred spirit. Until she found Diana Barry.

One day I will find my bliss. One day I will know peace. I will know love. And a person to whom I can speak my language and be understood.

Red Alert!

2006-02-22T18:14:00.000-05:00

Rick Mercer has a blog! Canadian political humor abounds. One of my favorite pics:

Time well wasted

2006-02-22T18:00:00.000-05:00

Something occurred to me today. The amount of time that I'm online on various message boards could be better spent blogging. Over the past while I have spent (squandered) a considerable number of hours debating and discussing various issues with strangers.

I care more about expressing my opinion than about whether or not Poster #6 agrees with me. Therefore, the blog wins over my need to babble. I mean really. I could have written a novel by now. Or ten.

Don't mess with Michael

2006-02-19T12:12:00.000-05:00

Mr. Bloomberg, New York City's mayor isn't messing around.

I used to enjoy a good game of solitare. Heck, I found it addictive. I used to spend ages playing it.
But on my PC at home.

I'm not saying I feel sorry for the employee in question. However at work...You've got to use your judgment.

Why am I here?

2006-02-15T22:02:00.000-05:00

No, not me. My blog.

I look at pages like the list of links on Josh Harris' web site, and I feel both ashamed and inspired. Ashamed because at times in my blogging I feel purposeless. Sometimes I realize that I can seem a bit flighty and odd. (Where else on the web can you go for a rant about the importance of hanging onto one's faith, and a commentary on the latest lingerie?) Inspired... Because I feel more and more these days, a need to cling to my divine inklings, and write about what I know.

And what I know is that I need God.

Just Jesus.

2006-02-14T08:35:00.000-05:00

This morning I read this article about Jesus. Made me long for the days when everyone wasn't determined that he take sides.

“Abstinence is for Virgins” aka The World Thinks Christians Don’t Have a Clue

2006-02-12T19:10:00.000-05:00

Especially when it comes to sex.

I like glarkware. I really do. Currently I covet their "Good Grammar Costs Nothing" tee.

But one of their pieces of merchandise leaves me cold.

They have a shirt that says “Abstinence is for Virgins”.

Its accompanying write-up includes a few things which I will comment on. Keep in mind that the tone of the description is facetious…

in many parts of America, high-school students aren't even taught how sex works

Which, if it’s true, is a cause for concern.

their sex education ends with the deadly serious admonition that they not do it
until they get married (whereupon it will surely be just...awesome.)

So? Who says it won’t be? I intend to have a great sex life. In fact, I’m sure that I will. When I’m married. And what is it with this idea that people who choose to wait are doomed to have a boring bedroom life?

Abstinence-only education leads to one thing, people. No, not to a generation of
students so misinformed about sex that the rates of teen pregnancy skyrocket

When people make statements like that…I wonder what planet they’re on. (In keeping with the tone of the text, it's clear to me that the people at glarkware believe that abstinence education does lead to students being misguided, having sex without comprehending its consequences.) I would argue that the main reason for the high pregnancy rate among North American teens lies with the way sex is--or rather, isn't--taught to students. That, combined with what young people are fed by the media should be enough to cause everyone to be concerned. The prevailing idea is the idea that sex is a fun activity. And consequences, schmonsequences! ;) A properly-used condom, a few birth control pills…Prophylactics can help anyone avoid all harm! :D

Yet there is reality. A condom is not a cure-all. That information is readily available on ordinary web pages such as this one at iVillage. Not just Abstinence Education sites.

And notice what they said on that page:

Condoms make sex *safer* -- they do not make it absolutely safe...The only
surefire way to avoid sexually transmitted diseases is to avoid sex.

Back to the t-shirt. What, according to glarkware, does abstinence result in?

it leads to happy, healthy, well-adjusted virgins who don't understand how their hoo-hoos and pee-pees work, but who love the Lord.

By the time the write-up reaches it’s conclusion, it’s gotten on my last nerve. I’m a happy, healthy, well-adjusted-and-not-just-technical virgin. I know very well how my entire body works. And I love the Lord.

A challenge.

2006-02-11T23:25:00.000-05:00

And it is an interesting one:

Read the Bible in 90 Days.

Reading the Bible from cover to cover is something I need to do. I've completed the New Testament and Psalms more than once. The Old Testament is foreign to me. I've read a few sections, but never the entire thing. The only thing that puts me off of this challenge is the idea that I would need to buy a book to motivate me to do so.

La Perla, eh?

2006-02-11T12:35:00.000-05:00

So I'll admit it. I'm a grown woman. I like window shopping...er...web shopping for cool undies.

Not that I have anyone to wear it for. No husband.

But even then. Given the money, I'd wear something that I liked...Purely for myself. ;)

Just now I decided to check out the La Perla site. (The link's in this entry's title.)

Something about the way some of those girls were posing...They frightened me.

And I wish I could tell you I was kidding about that. But I'm not.

My hero.

2006-02-11T10:42:00.000-05:00

Still thinking about the Mohammed cartoon disaster.

I wanted to point you to someone I admire and respect very much. And it's not just because she's Canadian. ;)

Irshad Manji.

I applaud her for speaking her mind about the problems within her faith. For, while I know there are decent people who profess to be Muslim, I'm disturbed by the fact that militant Muslims are neglecting to examine their extreme interpretation of the tenets of their faith.

Favorite new music video

2006-02-07T23:29:00.000-05:00

So I don't have cable. No MTV. No Much Music. But I do have the internet.

Over the weekend I saw Pink's "Stupid Girls". Follow the link. Tell a friend. ;)

All I could say when I saw it is, "It's about time!"

In this era, when it comes to young women, "stupid" is the new "intelligent". Somehow it's cute to appear brainless or ditzy. After all. *batting eyelashes* "How else can a chick expect to empress a guy these days?"

I wish I could tell all the girls across the globe where real beauty lies. It's not in 10 pounds of MAC make-up, double-d breasts, and a pair of overpriced jeans.

Coming to a TV near you

2006-02-07T23:26:00.000-05:00

Black. White.

I want to see this show. However, I don't have cable. :(

Chances are it won't tell me much that I don't already know. But I think it'll make one hell of an interesting social experiment.

Then again...

2006-02-07T23:17:00.000-05:00

I know perfectly well that in response to criticism of Christianity, there likely isn't a group of people who would resort to violence. Certainly not to the extremes that I've seen in the news over the past few days. I can't imagine such a thing.

At the very least, I don't want to.

Cartoon Chaos - And curiosity.

2006-02-07T13:55:00.000-05:00

Please Note: I am not stupid. I do not believe for a minute that all Muslims are terrorists, evil, etc. That said, this post is looking at the group of individuals who are responsible for the current strain of violence in the East.

I just read about a pending Holocaust cartoon contest in Iran.

I find myself alarmed and horrified at the specter of such a thing. At the same time, a part of me is wondering something:

"Does the West extend freedom of expression to the crimes committed by the United States and Israel, or an event such as the Holocaust? Or is its freedom only for insulting religious sanctities?" Hamshahri wrote.

Recent events have brought up concerns about Jyllands-Posten (the Danish newspaper in question) and their cartoons of Mohammed. Some people question the Muslim people's right to be angry, citing free speech.

On one hand, I wonder why Christians have not been driven to riot in such instances. Pop culture plays with images and ideas pertaining to our Saviour almost all the time? (Most recently in the guise of Kanye West.) Yet I haven't heard of a small--or large--group of us going over the edge and endangering lives.

What is it? At the risk of not being politically correct...Is it that although some of us are fools and fanatics, many more of us have Jesus and the peace that he brings? (He has kept me from losing my mind many, many times. Seriously.) Or does it have something to do with our culture's lack of religious dedication? I've come to take it for granted that certain nations are considered "Islamic" or "Muslim". In saying so I recognize that in different regions, the religion is given more than lip service. From a distance, thanks to the media, I've learned that in places such as Saudi Arabia, Islam virtually defines the air people breathe. Abroad there may be a level of spiritual devotion (fanaticism?) that our culture lacks.

Indeed. In this post 9/11 world, the first time someone referred to the United States as a "Christian" nation...I think I laughed. Mind you, it was a "I can't believe what I'm hearing" kind of laugh. But it was a laugh none the less.

North America has to be one of the most Anti-Christian places I know. In many ways, Christianity is a part of our society. Its remnants are everywhere--from our architecture, to our holidays. Yet people think nothing of mocking Christian traditions. Months ago at the start of a Wednesday-night gathering, I remember a woman told me that someone made fun of her when she said that she was going to a Bible Study. It seems to me that other religions are respected. But Christianity? Not so much.

So...

Is that it?

Are we just used to being made fun of? Beyond the point of caring?

If North Americans strictly followed the religious traditions of our European settlers...Would we be inspired to carry out rash actions that could give Muslim militants a run for their money?

Which brings me back to my original topic.

In my head I have a list of things which no sane human being would dare make fun of. The Holocaust is definitely in the top ten. Yet some people think nothing of mocking Islam. And now, amidst needless violence, comes this ridiculous cartoon idea. Which, in spite of itself, brings to mind a question:

How sacred are our idols?

Waking up.

2006-02-07T11:42:00.000-05:00

It occurred to me. I don't need to attend journalism school. What I really ought to do is commit to the words God gives me.

I know I should write every day. At this rate, I certainly could. There's an interesting dichotomy I've noticed. On one hand, I mourn the years. The time between when I graduated with my BA until now is filled with (seemingly) little more than loneliness and screw-ups. Dead ends. In my head there's an image of a scrawny bird with a downy head and flapping wings. She tries to leave her nest more than once but fails miserably. (A pathetic, melodramatic image. But a pretty apt one.)

And then I wake up from that pity party and ask myself what I've done to further the pursuit of my own goals. For example, I have this blog. Do I use it? Not as much as I could or should. I could work to write my way to liberty, but I haven't been. It's strange. As though I've never trusted myself to pursue my heart's desires. Save for teaching. But as much as I love teaching, it is not all of me...

Quote of the day!

2006-02-02T16:25:00.000-05:00

"don't be so heavenly minded that you're of no earthly good."

From the vox on the Relevant boards.

"Remember the truth. It's all that matters."

2006-01-26T16:32:00.000-05:00

Check out "A Million Little Lies" on The Smoking Gun's web site.

I'm watching Oprah now. Can't help wishing I'd read A Million Little Pieces. James Frey is a real piece of work. As is the representative from his publishing house.

Doesn't the truth mean anything to anyone anymore?

I mean...I know it does. But Frey's reaction to getting caught--for lack of a better term--is phenomenal. He seems very calm. Almost to the point of apathy. He doesn't seem to comprehend the controversy.

Or maybe it's old news to him, and he's at the point now where he just doesn't care.

And the winner is....

2006-01-24T22:19:00.000-05:00

Paul Martin lost to Stephen Harper last night in our federal election. Just barely though. He's got a minority government...

Here's a primer. Although I had my hunches, that link marks the first time I've had the term officially spelled out for me.

School is supposed to be fun?

2006-01-16T21:11:00.000-05:00

I have yet to read that post in its entirety, yet the premise--or rather, the fact that someone had the cojones to post it--intrigues me.

I don't believe for a minute that school is supposed to be One. BIG. Party. But there's nothing wrong with you (a teacher) and your kids (students) enjoying yourselves and finding fulfillment in your daily lessons.

There is one thing I can say that I learned today though.

I have nothing against long-term teachers who let their students see them smile. When you have a class of your own you will have a rapport, etc., etc.

But.

If you're a substitute teacher....I suggest you use your weapons wisely. In my everyday life, I smile quite liberally. I laugh openly. I can't help it. That's just the kind of person I am.

Meanwhile in my professional life, I've come to one conclusion:

If you smile too much or too soon, you are done. DONE, I tell you!

Or at least I was a few hours ago.

*sigh*

It's like I read or heard once somewhere: It's easier to start out strict and ease up on students than it is to start easy and then turn around and attempt to be a good disciplinarian.

Privacy, schmivacy.

2005-12-28T18:58:00.000-05:00

And now, in the aftermath of Jane Creba's death, the debate has turned to whether or not more surveillance cameras ought to be installed.

As I watch the news, every now and then someone mutters about "privacy" as in violating people's right to privacy. In public places.

I was watching with someone who said, "Privacy my foot!"

I, on the other hand, thought up a more profane response. I kept it to myself though...

In the first place, once you're out in the open, especially in the downtown of an urban area...I'm sorry. But if you expect anything you do at that point to be considered private, you're dreaming. And if you're downtown doing something that you think ought to be kept private...You know what? You shouldn't be there in the first place. Forget cameras. One way or another, someone WILL see you.

It's not as though they're talking about a pervert or peeping tom. They're talking about security cameras. I haven't got anything to hide. And if I did have something to hide, I can guarantee I wouldn't be foolish enough to do it where every Jane and John Doe could get an eyeful.

We're talking about saving lives and keeping people safe. So long as your intentions are honorable...I say go ahead, tape away.

What sort of intellectual am I?

2005-12-19T21:59:00.000-05:00

You're an introspective intellectual.

What Sort of Intellectual Are You?
brought to you byQuizilla

Trusting God in ALL things.

2005-12-19T21:17:00.000-05:00

If love is what God wants for me, then love is what I shall have.

Paging Tom Green

2005-12-12T15:11:00.000-05:00

I hear you've got a new track out called "Teachers Suck".

And I want to like it, because I have a sense of humor, and, like you, I'm Canadian.

But.

I'm a teacher.

And I don't suck. And I didn't get into this profession because I'm too dense to do anything else.

One day I'm sure that Mr. Green will be asked a question re his intent. Pray, what was in his head when he came up with his current hit?

He may try to tell the audience that it was all tongue in cheek, that anyone who has any kind of sense will know better than to take "Teachers Suck" seriously.

But there are millions of students who are going to take his nonsense at face value. They will feel that they have license to degrade and disrespect their teachers.

I'm sick and tired of these artists thinking they don't have to make responsible decisions regarding the products of their so-called creative "genius".

I don't have anything else to say right now, other than that it's a damn shame.

Right on time

2005-12-01T19:17:00.000-05:00

The Lord is helping me see the beauty in my circumstance.

I've only attended my neighborhood church twice. It's about a five-minute walk from my doorstep. I remember the first time I went. I was happy after I left the service. "Finally," I thought,"I'm going to connect to a local group of believers."

I was also a little worried.

I'm willing to bet all my earthly goods that I'm the only single late-twenty-something in the congregation. Or at least, that's how it felt.

Self-consciousness started to get the best of me.

But whenever The Enemy presents me with a reason to be upset, God sends another thought to ease my mind.

I know that he can, and will, use me for good in any circumstance.

Furthermore, tonight, while surfing the internet, I found this excellent article.

As a single Christian woman in a small-town congregation...I swear it was written just for me. :)

Accept no substitutes!

2005-11-28T13:43:00.000-05:00

Unless you're dealing with me, of course. ;)

I'm now officially on the substitute/supply teacher circuit. And let me tell you, it's wonderful. At least, thus far.

Although I do not have to plan any lessons for the students I meet each day, I'm developing other skills...Such as attendance taking, and general classroom management. You may laugh, but I take these duties seriously. Before my very first day on the job, one of my major worries involved attendance taking -- would I pronounce all of the students' names properly,would the students answer to their names or make attempts to confuse me, would the sheet get taken to the office in time, etc., etc.

Sorry to be neglecting my blog. I wanted to start a musicians' series featuring a few of my favorite artists. Time will tell if I can manage to get 'er off the ground...

Makes me wanna holler...

2005-10-26T22:06:00.000-04:00

I'm watching The National.

I find it highly disturbing that people have to live under these conditions anywhere in the world. Let alone in a so-called "civilized" country.

Save the Wheel!

2005-10-22T18:57:00.000-04:00

A seemingly cryptic campaign. Yet it seems kind of clear to me...

I found STW when I visited Joshua Harris' web site. In my opinion, there's little mystery in the "Wheel" that they're speaking of. I think the "Wheel" is a clever guise for the way we live.

Everybody's looking for something to satisfy them. And even many Christians are on a hollow quest believing that they have to follow the world in order to fill their souls. Yet for some of us, the way to true satisfaction remains simple and clear.

God.

He made us, he made "the wheel"...There are things that aren't broken, but we're determined to fix them. We believe the Devil's lie, that we have to compromise ourselves in order to be fulfilled.

I believe that God gave us rules...Not to bring us pain, or cause us sorrow, but to keep us safe.

That isn't to say I'm not human. I know that following the Lord comes with a price. One may feel upset that she or he has to (seemingly) do without in order to follow Christ.

But the prize is worth the fight, my friends. The prize is worth the fight. (Hebrews 12: 1)

Whose LIFE is it anyway?

2005-10-22T16:52:00.000-04:00

1 Corinthians 6:19: Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own?
(emphasis added)

It is only over the past year or so that I have come to grasp the concept of stewardship. I never used to pay it any mind, really. When I was younger, I used to think it had something to do with how we spent our money. And money was the stuff of adults who had jobs. It had nothing to do with me.

But now somehow, the Lord has made certain things plain to me. In particular, there is the fact that we must be mindful of more than our money. It's worth our while to consider what we do, how we do it, and who (or what) we do it for.

What we do

By this, I'm referring to God's gifts.

It can be truly awesome to attempt to fathom the significance of our own existence. Particularly under the covering of the Divine. We are separate, individuals, and yet in so many ways, one. Crafted by God, each with our own skills and talents. But for what?

I believe to serve each other, and in doing so, strive to serve the Lord. None of our abilities came to us by accident. I am convinced that God crafted each and every one of us not only on purpose, but with a purpose.

Our skills, our talents--Those things we do that fit that old cliche about us taking an ability of ours for granted, while others stand back and go "wow" or "you really have a way with..."

I believe that these are the abilities we need to pay attention to, because these are the skills that God meant us to use in order to honor ourselves, each other, and ultimately, him.

How we do it

I struggle with this tremendously. My current situation does not match my dreams. Unfortunately, my displeasure regarding my circumstances is becoming obvious. I've been failing to give my all in certain duties and relationships. Yet this is not what our Heavenly Father wants.

Colossians 3:23 says, "And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men". When we give our best effort in all that we do, we let our lights shine...We honor God when we use all that he has given us.

Who we do it for

I've considered teaching at a Christian school. Or at least, applying to teach at one. After all, as a Christian, shouldn't I be preoccupied with the welfare of Christian youth?

But for now I've put that idea on hold. I think that kids in the public system deserve as many positive influences as they can get.

And then there's writing.

For a few years now, I have seriously flipped and flopped, vacillating regarding the idea of whether or not I ought to attempt to get intot he Christian writers' market. At one point I even joined a Christian writers group. I applied for, and won, a bursary so that I could have afforded to attend their annual conference.

And then, I never went.

(Oh shhhh. Something came up and I honestly couldn't go. Perhaps it was the Devil getting in my way...?)

God has given me a gift, and I've been questioning whether or not I ought to use it for his glory. In some ways that's why I'm thankful for this blog. Even if I never write the next Christian Blockbuster, I treasure this place where I can write freely about my faith.

Yet why question? In my heart of hearts, I know it makes perfect sense to give back to the one who has given unto me. And as the verse I quoted said "you are not your own".

Still I hesitate.

Why?

Is it the stigma, perhaps?

These days, things that are labeled "Christian" do not have the best of reputations. Supposedly, we're behind the times. We're judgmental, nonsensical fools.

And lets face it.

We build our faith on the teachings of a carpenter who liked to fish. As one of my pastors back in Toronto once said, "There's no way you can sex that story up."

But, as he went on to remind us...Those who understand know that Jesus was more than just a man.

So again, why do we hesitate to answer The Call?

Fear.

I was talking with a friend of mine regarding this very issue. "Fear" is the only reason she could come up with for one wanting to avoid God's will. I agree with her wholeheartedly.

As indicated above, the name/title/label "Christian" is not a popular one.

In my head there's a list of all the things I could lose if I decided to use my talent for the Christian market. Namely, credibility in the secular writing world. Consider, even, making small talk at a party:

"What do you do for a living?"
"I write."
"Really?" Captivated, the person I'm speaking with
leans closer. "What kind of stuff? Where can I find it?"
Um..."At Mitchell's, under Christian Living."

I have no idea why this hesitation haunts me. It isn't as though I wouldn't have an audience. Yet I know there's something in certain Christians' minds. We share this fear...We don't want non-believers to think we're strange.

Yet as a Christian in a secular world, isn't that par for the course?

You know...

I think I have some friends who don't even know I'm Christian. Once my faith
leaps from being spirituality (a rarely-discussed topic) to my career, there'll
be no hiding. I'll be "exposed".

And truly, I used to have a deep, resistant fear. It began and ended with the idea that I would never get what I wanted out of this life if I made a conscious effort to cling to God.

And what is it that I want?

1. True Love

2. Professional Success

Neither is outside the realm of possibility. But stereotypes have obscured people's view. They used to muddy my vision. For example...Success for the spiritual means that we are destined to be pencil-pushers.

And love?

When it comes down to it, a "good" Christian (woman) supposedly should learn to keep quiet and be ready to make do with someone they're only "sort of" compatible with. After all, a quality mate is hard to come by. God's children cannot afford to be choosy. They can't afford to hope for a mate who makes them smile either.

I have seen and known people who held out for God's personal and professional best. And in the end they were not disappointed.

I have been blessed along the way in my life as well. So I posit that there's no reason to believe that the Lord's promises won't be fulfilled. That is not arrogance. That is my statement of faith and confidence in God, his will, and his ways.

At the end of the day, as they say...What really matters? What brings true joy and fulfillment? Our devotion is what the Lord desires the most. For it is written:

Matthew 22:37: Jesus said to him, 'You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.'

This command seems only fair to me, since we are, as stated before, not our own.

Although I have a fear of failing at everything that I try, I know that all I can offer is my own basic, human effort. True, that can never match the ultimate standard. (Romans 3:23). But in the end, it's all I've got.

Virgin Territory - The 411

2005-10-19T19:36:00.000-04:00

I figured that perhaps some of you are curious about the sidebar item entitled "Virgin Territory".

What's it for?

I've decided to devote at least a small segment of my page to show some support to blogs that support abstinence or chastity. Either through their themes, or the nature of their author's lifestyles.

The pendulum has swung a little too far for my liking.

Back in the day, if you had sex out of wedlock you were a terrible person.

These days, if you're not doing "it" with someone or simply anyone at all...Somehow, you're the odd one out. You're lacking...Something. Supposedly.

What the media and most of society fails to acknowledge is the fact that a commitment to chastity--whether for religious reasons or otherwise--is the norm for many individuals.

And we are not necessarily throwing ourselves pity parties every night.

Today I visited La Senza.

2005-10-19T19:35:00.000-04:00

Online, at least.

For those not in the know, I suppose they're Canada's answer to Victoria's Secret.

I must've been away too long. I was surprised to see some new categories--they have a bra lounge and a panty bar.

Back in Toronto, there is/was a club called the G Spot.

*scratches head*

I wonder which came first. ;)

Everything to Somebody

2005-10-15T18:40:00.000-04:00

I stole this poem from Sexless in the City.

You are Everything to Somebody
Right now at this very minute……
Someone
Is very proud of you
Someone
Is thinking of you
Someone
Cares about you
Someone
Misses you
Someone
Wants to talk to you
Someone
Wants to be with you
Someone
Hopes you aren’t in trouble
Someone
Is thankful for the support you have provided
Someone
Wants to hold your hand
Someone
Hopes everything turns out all right
Someone
Wants you to be happy
Someone
Wants you to find them
Someone
Is celebrating your successes
Someone
Wants to give you a gift
Someone
Thinks you ARE a gift
Someone
Hopes you are not too cold, or too hot
Someone
Wants to hug you
Someone
Loves you
Someone
Wants to lavish you with small gifts
Someone
Admires your strength
Someone
Is thinking of you and smiling
Someone
Wants to be your shoulder to cry on
Someone
Wants to go out with you and have a lot of fun
Someone
Thinks the world of you
Someone
Wants to protect you
Someone
Would do anything for you
Someone
Wants to be forgiven
Someone
Is grateful for your forgiveness
Someone
Wants to laugh with you about old times
Someone
Remembers you and wishes you were there
Someone
Is praising God for you
Someone
Needs to know that your love is unconditional
Someone
Values your advice
Someone
Wants to stay up watching old movies with you
Someone
Wants to share their dreams with you
Someone
Wants to hold you in their arms
Someone
Wants YOU to hold them in your arms
Someone
Treasures your spirit
Someone
Wishes they could STOP time because of you
Someone
Praises God for your friendship and love
Someone
Can’t wait to see you
Someone
Wishes that things didn’t have to change
Someone
Loves you for who you are
Someone
Loves the way you make them feel
Someone
Wants to be with you
Someone
Is hoping they can grow old with you
Someone
Hears a song that reminds them of you
Someone
Wants you to know they are there for you
Someone
Is glad that you’re their friend
Someone
Wants to be your friend
Someone
Stayed up all night thinking about you
Someone
Is alive because of you
Someone
Is remorseful after losing your friendship
Someone
Is wishing that you would notice them
Someone
Wants to get to know you better
Someone
Believes that you are their soul mate
Someone
Wants to be near you
Someone
Misses your guidance and advice
Someone
Values your guidance and advice
Someone
Has faith in you
Someone
Trusts you
Someone
Needs you to send them this letter
Someone
Needs your support
Someone
Needs you to have faith in them
Someone
Needs you to let them be your friend
Someone
Will cry when they read this.

The Curious Case of the Academic Epidemic

2005-10-15T09:55:00.000-04:00

The other day my mom and I were discussing my career. Things are looking up, and Lord willing, I will be supply teaching soon.

We spoke of another young teacher...This person is in a similar boat... Meaning when an instructor is absent for a day or two, he fills in.

This lead quickly to some banter back and forth regarding what I will and won't teach, in the event that I'm asked to come in and "fake it".

"Almost anything, so long as it's not senior-level math!" I exclaimed.

"And you could teach music, too."

I muttered a "Yeah" in affirmation. Although I don't know all the technical terminology, and I'm a bit shy...If pressed to do so, I'm pretty sure that I could manage it for a short while.

The conversation quickly turned to English. Which turned to teachers who aren't qualified to teach the subject, but are doing so...Not as supply teachers. Rather, for the long term.

There's a serious danger there. When you're dealing with English, you're talking about a subject that influences the way young people communicate. (In every aspect of their lives.) Today's "young people" are tomorrow's adults, and the potential rulers of our society.

I can't tell you the number of times I've listened to people (of various ages) talk, or read things they've written, and wondered, worriedly,"Good grief. Who was their English teacher...?"

That isn't to say I'm some sort of linguistic snob. I've mentioned it before in this blog...I'm a regular human being. I see nothing wrong with communicating like one.

At the same time, if you're one of my students, and you think I'm going to let you get away with using IM-style diction and spelling in one of your assignments...

Think again.

I have to confess something: In my quest for a job, there have been times when I've tried to put a spin on what I can do. I'm officially qualified to teach three subjects. However I tend to think that if pressed, I can handle others. I've said as much in a few cover letters...I figure that five sections of English, and one section of, say, Basket Weaving, won't kill me.

But something in my mother's concluding remarks stuck with me. Regarding these unqualified teachers who teach English, she commented (paraphrasing), "And then, they push Johnny through the system, he graduates, and when he can't read, people wonder why..."

I'm not trying to say that everyone who isn't qualified to teach English is phenomenally bad. However I can't help thinking that teachers of all subjects risk doing their kids a disservice when they attempt to teach a subject about which they haven't a clue. (Pardon my convoluted sentence. Hopefully you get my meaning.)

Now I know, as an insider, this is where things like Additional Qualification courses come in. It's possible to bridge gaps in your own education, and thus be able to teach others effectively.

Still, I wonder how many instructors out there neglect to do so. And what of their students?

There's a dangerous potential in the power that teachers have...Young people often take us at our word. We have the ability to influence not only their intellect, but how they perceive this world.

My sincere hope is that we use our abilities for good and not evil.