Tuesday, December 04, 2007
Sunday, December 02, 2007
About Me
i'm simple and complex. i see the positive in people, yet i am familiar with the selfish desires within each person. i have a lot of hope for transformation in people, in cities, in countries and in the world. music speaks to my soul when i am contemplative; it sets me free when i sing to the lyrics; it lets me rock when i dance to the beat. i like stylish stuff, but my preference is always comfort. i love to laugh with people. i like to smile and play. i like to look at the intricacies of a flower. i like to pull my car over and take time to walk in tall fields. i feel at home in nature. i like hiking, fishing, rock-climbing, backpacking, and swimming in the ocean, rivers and streams. i love water-- it represents life and largeness to me. i like to live in possibility and see each day as an adventure. i love road trips with friends. i like to stop at gas stations and buy treats- especially hostess cupcakes. driving on a cold night with the windows down and heater blasting is one of my most favorite things. i like to lie on the ground at night and name stars. i like to reflect on the vastness of the skies-- it leads me to consider the creator of all things as loving and gracious. i like to be with people from all walks of life; rich and poor; all sorts of ethnicities. when i visit other countries, states, or cities, i like to sit in a coffee shop and watch the people around me-- somehow i walk away feeling more connected to the people and culture. i love doing life with people, but I cherish the moments of being together more than the doing. overall, i enjoy life and want others to enjoy it. my overarching goal is to love all people and hopefully, in that, I will reveal a love that is deeper and more real than our minds can conceive and this world can offer. my life is a constant lesson in learning to live by faith and not by sight because I know that what I see is temporary and what I don't see is eternal. (2 Cor. 4:18; 5:7) And by the way, when I sing, i sing really loud!
Saturday, September 15, 2007
Mindfulness
Mindfulness
“…investigating inwardly our own nature as beings and, particularly, the nature of our own minds through careful and systematic self-observation, we may be able to live lives of greater satisfaction, harmony and wisdom. It also offers a view of the world which is complementary to the predominantly reductionist and materialistic one currently dominating Western thought and institutions” (Wherever you go, there you are, Kabbat-Zinn, p. 4)
Our natural tendency is to live self-centered lives, yet true life is not found within oneself, it is found in serving others and loving Jesus. For me to understand this truth, I must search within to become familiar with my nature and know the blinded ways that have a tendency to guide me. I believe this is what the writer of this statement is saying. He is saying take time to know your own perverse ways and your great need for grace and mercy. Take time to know your patterns of selfishness and leanr to undo them. He is saying take time to know that you are not the center of the universe rather you are a part of the whole. Take time to know yourself as your really are and in this you will find humility and life that is completely foreign to this world.
I think of Paul’s similar words, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is, his good pleasing and perfect will.” (Romans 12).
If I were to analyze this verse, it would say, “Do not live as the world, with your mind focused on yourself and what you want, instead focus on others and see the world through the lens God might see through. Set your minds on life-giving pursuits that consist of people, nature, and intricacies unnoticed by most. Know your strengths and weaknesses. Be humble. Be self-aware, but not self-focused. Overcome your selfish, controlling and manipulative ways. In doing these things, you will be able to see more clearly and walk in a way that brings life to you and others—in this you will fulfill the will of God.”
“…investigating inwardly our own nature as beings and, particularly, the nature of our own minds through careful and systematic self-observation, we may be able to live lives of greater satisfaction, harmony and wisdom. It also offers a view of the world which is complementary to the predominantly reductionist and materialistic one currently dominating Western thought and institutions” (Wherever you go, there you are, Kabbat-Zinn, p. 4)
Our natural tendency is to live self-centered lives, yet true life is not found within oneself, it is found in serving others and loving Jesus. For me to understand this truth, I must search within to become familiar with my nature and know the blinded ways that have a tendency to guide me. I believe this is what the writer of this statement is saying. He is saying take time to know your own perverse ways and your great need for grace and mercy. Take time to know your patterns of selfishness and leanr to undo them. He is saying take time to know that you are not the center of the universe rather you are a part of the whole. Take time to know yourself as your really are and in this you will find humility and life that is completely foreign to this world.
I think of Paul’s similar words, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is, his good pleasing and perfect will.” (Romans 12).
If I were to analyze this verse, it would say, “Do not live as the world, with your mind focused on yourself and what you want, instead focus on others and see the world through the lens God might see through. Set your minds on life-giving pursuits that consist of people, nature, and intricacies unnoticed by most. Know your strengths and weaknesses. Be humble. Be self-aware, but not self-focused. Overcome your selfish, controlling and manipulative ways. In doing these things, you will be able to see more clearly and walk in a way that brings life to you and others—in this you will fulfill the will of God.”
Friday, September 14, 2007
Montana Pics
Sometimes I wonder why I am so blessed to have an amazing family. This past weekend, my family met me in Spokane, WA, where I was taking an on-campus Masters course. It was like the olden days of traveling in the motorhome together. After my class, we went to Missoula, Montana and meet up with family friends--Uncle Les, Liberty and her husband, Craig. I'm so thankful for this fun memorable week and even mmore thankful for a supportive family. Big hugs to you!
Also, you will notice, fishing. I caught the fish and we ate them for breakfast. My dad caught a baby one, but we have to face the fact that I am a better fisherwoman. ;)
Amber, Lib and Craig
Amber and fish
Dad caught a fish too.
My fish up close. It was an illegal catch-- too big to keep, but he died, so I couldn't help it.
Dad fishing
Amber being a kook, as usual. Yes, this looks like a magnificent waterfall, but its part of a minature golf course. ahahah!
I tried to pick up on this golfer, but he totally rejected me.
At least, he let me take a picture with him.
Megan, you look so good in this picture. I knew you would want me to post it on my website.
Amber, Dad and the MOHO!
Hi! My name is Megan. I'm a sped.
Glorious minature golf waterfall!
Also, you will notice, fishing. I caught the fish and we ate them for breakfast. My dad caught a baby one, but we have to face the fact that I am a better fisherwoman. ;)
Amber, Lib and Craig
Amber and fish
Dad caught a fish too. 
My fish up close. It was an illegal catch-- too big to keep, but he died, so I couldn't help it. 
Dad fishing
Amber being a kook, as usual. Yes, this looks like a magnificent waterfall, but its part of a minature golf course. ahahah!
I tried to pick up on this golfer, but he totally rejected me. 
At least, he let me take a picture with him.
Megan, you look so good in this picture. I knew you would want me to post it on my website.
Amber, Dad and the MOHO!
Hi! My name is Megan. I'm a sped. 
Glorious minature golf waterfall!
Monday, September 10, 2007
Ode to Rader face
My friend, Jen, wrote a wonderful ode to me--- its post worthy.
How did I get such great friends?
Ode to Rader
(uhh hum)
My friend, (her name is Rader),
Is oh so very sweet.
Were you to see her later,
It would best a tasty treat.
For Rader is a peach –
A friend who’s oh so true.
She’ll warm you with a speech
That will make the worst day rue!
Her hair is blonde and curly.
Except for when it’s straight.
She’s pretty and she’s girly.
She’s very rarely late.
Chocolates are her candy,
Of every size and hue.
She’ll love you like a dandy
If those sweets you’ll bring with you.
So if you get a chance
To meet my dear, dear friend,
Take not a second glance –
Cause her heart to you she’ll lend.
How did I get such great friends?
Ode to Rader
(uhh hum)
My friend, (her name is Rader),
Is oh so very sweet.
Were you to see her later,
It would best a tasty treat.
For Rader is a peach –
A friend who’s oh so true.
She’ll warm you with a speech
That will make the worst day rue!
Her hair is blonde and curly.
Except for when it’s straight.
She’s pretty and she’s girly.
She’s very rarely late.
Chocolates are her candy,
Of every size and hue.
She’ll love you like a dandy
If those sweets you’ll bring with you.
So if you get a chance
To meet my dear, dear friend,
Take not a second glance –
Cause her heart to you she’ll lend.
Friday, September 07, 2007
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)