| You Are An ISFJ |
 You have a strong need to belong, and you very loyal. A good listener, you excel at helping others in practical ways. In your spare time, you enjoy engaging your senses through art, cooking, and music. You find it easy to be devoted to one person, who you do special things for. In love, you express your emotions through actions. Taking care of someone is how you love them. And you do it well! At work, you do well in a structured environment. You complete tasks well and on time. You would make a good interior designer, chef, or child psychologist. How you see yourself: Competent, dependable, and detail oriented When other people don't get you, they see you as: Boring, dominant, and stuck in a rut |
7.31.2008
ISFJ
I really like Myers-Briggs, and although this is only a short blog version, it still rings true with me!
7.29.2008
"Messy Spirituality" by Michael Yaconelli
Where to begin? How about this... I am a blog stalker. Yep, that is me. I enjoy reading other people's blogs. It allows me to be a part of people's lives, even if I have never met them, haven't seen them in a long time, or just want to know them better. So, I happened upon a friend's blog and enjoyed keeping up with her and her husband's life. One day she posted about a bloggy blog opportunity, and me being the reader i am couldn't pass it up... especially when the book seemed to be speaking directly to me.
I am a mess. As maybe you can tell from my last post, I have always and consistently struggled with discipline, being consistent. I guess you could say the only thing consistent in my life is my inconsistency. I love lists and enjoy marking things off of a list, but I am absolutely terrible at not just sitting around and being lazy. Here are the two things that suck up most of my time: TV watching and Spider solitaire. Its terrible.
So, I am a mess. But, this book spoke directly to me.
At first I questioned it. Was this book only going to give me an excuse to be messy, an excuse to not strive to be disciplined and consistent.
No, it didn't. But, it did give me the understanding that (what I would assume) most Christians struggle to be consistent, especially in today's time and society. Our life is busy and in our busyness, we don't slow down and allow ourselves time to spend with God.
This book allowed me time to explore why I try to hide my messiness; why am I not honest with people about what is going on in my life? Why am I afraid to say I struggle with being single? Why am I afraid to let people know I struggle with having a passion for the Word? Because somehow we are afraid to live authentically. Its as if we are afraid that if we live authentically then we won't be good Christians.
What Yaconelli does is calls us to live authentic lives. To realize that growth and maturity in faith comes at different paces for all people and at different times. By living his life authentically through this book he shows us that it is ok to be messy, to live messy lives and to call each other to be messy.
Bibically speaking, it is only when we live in the light that we can ever begin to address the sin and allow God to work.
So, if you find yourself busy and quickly putting God aside, then pick up this book. It helped me reevaluate my priorities and also allowed me to extend grace to myself in my busyness. This book, Messy Spirituality, is a keeper my friends!
Question
How do you cultivate discipline if it isn't your nature? How do you start being uber productive when you have a habit of procrastination and laziness?
Any thoughts and tips are greatly appreciated.
Any thoughts and tips are greatly appreciated.
7.22.2008
Song of the Day- Only a Man by Jonny Lang
Do you all remember Jonny Lang? He was a child prodigy that came out around the same time as Hanson (so, if you are my age, late middle school). Jonny Lang is a all-star guitar player. He plays the Blues, so my mom always enjoyed him.
Anyway, Jonny recently became a Christian and has released an awesome album entitled, "Turn Around." Critics call is Gospel, I just call A-mazing!!! Every song is filled with truth and it has been on repeat for a while now.
My favorite song is "Only a Man" (Track 8 I believe). Here are the lyrics:
I used to live my life in fear
Was worried all the time
From waking up to laying down
I had no peace of mind
The world became a darkened place
A struggle without end
Although bitter times those were
The days that I had began to understand
I was only a man
I grew up singing songs in church
With questions in my mind
Then turned my back and ran away
From God who gave me life
Then one night his presence fell
I wept and shook and then
I fell down and cried, Dear Jesus, rescue me again
I understand I am only a man
And He said, What will it be now?
Will you choose me or keep swimming up stream now?
I've been inside your head hearing you scream out.
Well here I am, just take my hand and I'll take out
All of the pain and all of the fear
All of the fear
I'll give you my burdens (I'll give you peace)
All of my desires (I'll give you what you need)
Oh, what about these chains, Lord? (I'll set you free)
But they're so heavy (Lay them at my feet)
I'll lay them at your feet
Just promise you won't leave (I'll never leave)
So where do I go from here, Lord? (Just follow me)(Just follow me)
I'll follow you (Just follow me)
wherever you lead
Wherever you lead, wherever you lead
Lyrics are good, huh? Now go and listen to it on iTunes... and purchase it. ;-).
PS, the woman singing in the song, Jonny's wife.
Anyway, Jonny recently became a Christian and has released an awesome album entitled, "Turn Around." Critics call is Gospel, I just call A-mazing!!! Every song is filled with truth and it has been on repeat for a while now.
My favorite song is "Only a Man" (Track 8 I believe). Here are the lyrics:
I used to live my life in fear
Was worried all the time
From waking up to laying down
I had no peace of mind
The world became a darkened place
A struggle without end
Although bitter times those were
The days that I had began to understand
I was only a man
I grew up singing songs in church
With questions in my mind
Then turned my back and ran away
From God who gave me life
Then one night his presence fell
I wept and shook and then
I fell down and cried, Dear Jesus, rescue me again
I understand I am only a man
And He said, What will it be now?
Will you choose me or keep swimming up stream now?
I've been inside your head hearing you scream out.
Well here I am, just take my hand and I'll take out
All of the pain and all of the fear
All of the fear
I'll give you my burdens (I'll give you peace)
All of my desires (I'll give you what you need)
Oh, what about these chains, Lord? (I'll set you free)
But they're so heavy (Lay them at my feet)
I'll lay them at your feet
Just promise you won't leave (I'll never leave)
So where do I go from here, Lord? (Just follow me)(Just follow me)
I'll follow you (Just follow me)
wherever you lead
Wherever you lead, wherever you lead
Lyrics are good, huh? Now go and listen to it on iTunes... and purchase it. ;-).
PS, the woman singing in the song, Jonny's wife.
7.12.2008
Two years ago...
July 12. two years ago I started work at Duke. I was scared, upset, overwhelmed, and not sure what God was doing in my life.
a year ago I reflected about my first year here.
hard to believe that another year has gone by. It really is true, the older you get the more time speeds up. I wonder if it ever stops this trend; like when you retire? does time slow down at all?
But what has changed in this past year? a LOT!!!
For starters, God has brought me out of my job at Duke. Can we get an amen? AMEN! ;-). And more than that, I know have a job I really like. I work at the Girl Scouts as a Membership Director; I get to basically love on the volunteers in my assigned areas. Pretty much awesome and something I really like. It is very individual and I have power to try new things, do them my way, etc. Again, great for me!
What else? I am getting more and more involved in the church I go to, Providence Baptist. For starters, on July 20th I am getting baptized as a believer! I am also praying through joining the church as a member. Yesterday and today I sat through Providence's membership seminar and learned about their heart as a church from the senior pastor, David Horner. I have to say... I think I am going to join. I really just appreciate how they exist to first glorify God, and then let everything else be a over flow of that. It is an amazing church that I think I am going to spend my time here in Raleigh serving.
I love my friends here. We do lots of fun things... everything from cook outs, to camping, to trips to the beach, to movie watching, to just chilling. I have girls who I feel very close to and can talk about areas where I am struggling and areas I think God is growing me in. I have girls who ask me REAL questions and want to know my answers. Thank God for amazing women who pour into each other and challenge each other and who are seeking after the Lord's heart.
My roommate is great. Laura is one of the wisest women I know. I am thankful for how God is using her to encourage and challenge me.
Now I am just looking to see how God is leading me in the next year. I don't think He is yet calling me away from Raleigh, but I don't want to get content, either. I am going to start opening some doors... maybe take the GMAT and GRE and see if I am to go back to school. Maybe for my MBA... maybe for a nursing degree... maybe for a teaching degree. I am praying through different short term missions trips; I would love to go on one next year and want to see what God is leading me to. I know God is calling me to be a better steward of my financial situation. Beyond tithing, even... I need to use His money in a less selfish way and to get out of debt! So, what does that look like, I don't know. I want to start serving at Providence; maybe with the kids, maybe with my class, maybe both. Back to the stewardship... in some ways I need to be a better stewards of my health. I want to exercise more... thinking about swimming again. I want to eat only when hungry and eat healthy (ie, more fruit!). Man, oh man... lots of places to grow in. Hope I can honor God by just being faithful to follow God in every step and to allow myself grace when i fail. Pray for me over the next year. Steps of faith are scary, but they are also awesome! God does mighty things when you take them. :-)
a year ago I reflected about my first year here.
hard to believe that another year has gone by. It really is true, the older you get the more time speeds up. I wonder if it ever stops this trend; like when you retire? does time slow down at all?
But what has changed in this past year? a LOT!!!
For starters, God has brought me out of my job at Duke. Can we get an amen? AMEN! ;-). And more than that, I know have a job I really like. I work at the Girl Scouts as a Membership Director; I get to basically love on the volunteers in my assigned areas. Pretty much awesome and something I really like. It is very individual and I have power to try new things, do them my way, etc. Again, great for me!
What else? I am getting more and more involved in the church I go to, Providence Baptist. For starters, on July 20th I am getting baptized as a believer! I am also praying through joining the church as a member. Yesterday and today I sat through Providence's membership seminar and learned about their heart as a church from the senior pastor, David Horner. I have to say... I think I am going to join. I really just appreciate how they exist to first glorify God, and then let everything else be a over flow of that. It is an amazing church that I think I am going to spend my time here in Raleigh serving.
I love my friends here. We do lots of fun things... everything from cook outs, to camping, to trips to the beach, to movie watching, to just chilling. I have girls who I feel very close to and can talk about areas where I am struggling and areas I think God is growing me in. I have girls who ask me REAL questions and want to know my answers. Thank God for amazing women who pour into each other and challenge each other and who are seeking after the Lord's heart.
My roommate is great. Laura is one of the wisest women I know. I am thankful for how God is using her to encourage and challenge me.
Now I am just looking to see how God is leading me in the next year. I don't think He is yet calling me away from Raleigh, but I don't want to get content, either. I am going to start opening some doors... maybe take the GMAT and GRE and see if I am to go back to school. Maybe for my MBA... maybe for a nursing degree... maybe for a teaching degree. I am praying through different short term missions trips; I would love to go on one next year and want to see what God is leading me to. I know God is calling me to be a better steward of my financial situation. Beyond tithing, even... I need to use His money in a less selfish way and to get out of debt! So, what does that look like, I don't know. I want to start serving at Providence; maybe with the kids, maybe with my class, maybe both. Back to the stewardship... in some ways I need to be a better stewards of my health. I want to exercise more... thinking about swimming again. I want to eat only when hungry and eat healthy (ie, more fruit!). Man, oh man... lots of places to grow in. Hope I can honor God by just being faithful to follow God in every step and to allow myself grace when i fail. Pray for me over the next year. Steps of faith are scary, but they are also awesome! God does mighty things when you take them. :-)
7.11.2008
Use Your Signals!
Ok, so this a pet peeve... drivers who don't use their signals. I can't read your mind people... not a talent I have perfected at this time in my life. sorry.
This morning, I just wasn't feeling the Cheerios, and decided to hit up the Chick fil a near my house for some yummy food (probably not the best decision for my hips, but I digress). There, of course, was a line for the drive thru... and of course there were cars parked between the building and the drive thru line.
Now, I am listening to my music, spacing out, not paying attention to those coming in and out of the building. Sorry, but it is early in the morning and I am not super alert in the morning (good feeling thinking I am driving when not necessairly the most alert... eeek... but, again, I digress).
Well, anyway, I guess this guy got into his car and wanted to leave, but of course the drive thru lines was blocking him in. I didn't know he had gotten in and wanted out. And... he got mad when I pulled up behind him rather than let him out. BUT IN MY DEFENSE... the man hadn't even turned on his car NOR had he put his car in reverse... I didn't see his lights to signal to me to not pull forward. Geez, you should have seen the look on his face... I swear, he would have shot darts out of his eyes if he could have...
Luckily, the person behind me (who also pulled forward, mind you), reversed, and so did I, and he was on his merry little way.
But, don't get mad at me if you don't use your signals properly. We can't read you mind, angry drivers!
Sigh... got to let the pet peeves go. ;-). But, just consider this my friendly reminder to you to use your blinker, etc. Otherwise you may see me shaking my fist angrily at you... (but you won't see any other rude gestures, I promise. ;-).)
This morning, I just wasn't feeling the Cheerios, and decided to hit up the Chick fil a near my house for some yummy food (probably not the best decision for my hips, but I digress). There, of course, was a line for the drive thru... and of course there were cars parked between the building and the drive thru line.
Now, I am listening to my music, spacing out, not paying attention to those coming in and out of the building. Sorry, but it is early in the morning and I am not super alert in the morning (good feeling thinking I am driving when not necessairly the most alert... eeek... but, again, I digress).
Well, anyway, I guess this guy got into his car and wanted to leave, but of course the drive thru lines was blocking him in. I didn't know he had gotten in and wanted out. And... he got mad when I pulled up behind him rather than let him out. BUT IN MY DEFENSE... the man hadn't even turned on his car NOR had he put his car in reverse... I didn't see his lights to signal to me to not pull forward. Geez, you should have seen the look on his face... I swear, he would have shot darts out of his eyes if he could have...
Luckily, the person behind me (who also pulled forward, mind you), reversed, and so did I, and he was on his merry little way.
But, don't get mad at me if you don't use your signals properly. We can't read you mind, angry drivers!
Sigh... got to let the pet peeves go. ;-). But, just consider this my friendly reminder to you to use your blinker, etc. Otherwise you may see me shaking my fist angrily at you... (but you won't see any other rude gestures, I promise. ;-).)
7.10.2008
Being Single
I feel like everyday I struggle with still being single. I am constanly wondering if I will ever get married? heck, will I ever go on a date again? This was a great reminder of what God is saying to me right now... just to run the race with my eyes set upon Him; when (and if) the time is right, He will reveal that person to me. This is also true of job situations, children and other desires of the heart. Let's all just run the race looking unto Him and allow Him to work ALL things out.
"You will never be united with another until you are united with Me alone, exclusive of anyone or anything else, exclusive of any other desires or longings. I want you to stop planning, stop wishing, and allow Me to give you the most thrilling plan existing, one that you cannot imagine. Please allow Me to bring it to you. You just keep watching Me, expecting the greatest things. Keep experiencing the satisfaction that I Am.
Keep listening and learning the things I tell you. You just wait. That's all. Don't be anxious. Don't worry. Don't look at the things you think you want; You just keep looking off and away up to Me, or you'll miss what I want to show you. And then when you are ready, I'll surprise you with a love far more wonderful than any you could dream of. You see, until you are ready and until the one I have for you is ready (I am working even at this moment to have you both ready at the same time), until you are both satisfied exclusively with Me and the life I prepared for you, You won't be able to experience the love that exemplified your relationship with Me. And this is perfect love.
And dear one, I want you to have this most wonderful love, I want you to see in the flesh a picture of your relationship with Me, and to enjoy materially and concretely the everlasting union of beauty, perfection and love that I offer you with Myself. Know that I love utterly. I Am God. Believe it and be satisfied."
~St. Anthony of Padua
"You will never be united with another until you are united with Me alone, exclusive of anyone or anything else, exclusive of any other desires or longings. I want you to stop planning, stop wishing, and allow Me to give you the most thrilling plan existing, one that you cannot imagine. Please allow Me to bring it to you. You just keep watching Me, expecting the greatest things. Keep experiencing the satisfaction that I Am.
Keep listening and learning the things I tell you. You just wait. That's all. Don't be anxious. Don't worry. Don't look at the things you think you want; You just keep looking off and away up to Me, or you'll miss what I want to show you. And then when you are ready, I'll surprise you with a love far more wonderful than any you could dream of. You see, until you are ready and until the one I have for you is ready (I am working even at this moment to have you both ready at the same time), until you are both satisfied exclusively with Me and the life I prepared for you, You won't be able to experience the love that exemplified your relationship with Me. And this is perfect love.
And dear one, I want you to have this most wonderful love, I want you to see in the flesh a picture of your relationship with Me, and to enjoy materially and concretely the everlasting union of beauty, perfection and love that I offer you with Myself. Know that I love utterly. I Am God. Believe it and be satisfied."
~St. Anthony of Padua
Concentration
Do you remember that sleepover game called concentration? I don't remember much about it any more... except that you chanted "concentration, concentration," over and over again. Was this also the one where you "cracked an egg on your back" and while saying that you pounded your fist on the back?
Do you also remember the game "Light as a Feather, Stiff as a Board." Man, fun times to be had a sleepovers as a kid. We played all of those game; they never worked. But that is ok... still the myth that is passed down; i feel like our moms probably played this games, too.
What other games did we play? We played lots of board games, watched many movies... I miss sleepovers. Maybe I should organize one and just give all of us grown ups a chance to be tweens again. We could even watch High School Musical (its a guilty pleasure of mine, not going to lie).
Well, anyway, I am thinking of that game today because I am having such a problem concentrating today. I just can't focus at work. I am getting distracted and not wanting to work. I wonder if this is because it is sunny out and I just want to be outside. I don't know why. I am just taking a moment to rest my brain and pray that the Lord would allow me to focus on what I need to rather than be bored and let my mind wander.
Do you also remember the game "Light as a Feather, Stiff as a Board." Man, fun times to be had a sleepovers as a kid. We played all of those game; they never worked. But that is ok... still the myth that is passed down; i feel like our moms probably played this games, too.
What other games did we play? We played lots of board games, watched many movies... I miss sleepovers. Maybe I should organize one and just give all of us grown ups a chance to be tweens again. We could even watch High School Musical (its a guilty pleasure of mine, not going to lie).
Well, anyway, I am thinking of that game today because I am having such a problem concentrating today. I just can't focus at work. I am getting distracted and not wanting to work. I wonder if this is because it is sunny out and I just want to be outside. I don't know why. I am just taking a moment to rest my brain and pray that the Lord would allow me to focus on what I need to rather than be bored and let my mind wander.
7.08.2008
Outer Banks!
I went to the Outer Banks this past weekend with some fantastic girls from church. It was so what I needed... Time of relaxation, rejuvenation, and fun in the sun! I am so thankful for the girls... they are challenging and encouraging; they truly spur me on towards Jesus! Here are some snapshots from the weekend. :-)
We decided to do a fancy dinner. Here we are before our wonderful meal at 1587... yummy!
The Wright Brothers Memorial at Kitty Hawk has been officially redeemed. If you want the details, ask me and I'll share. But know that those prickly pear cacti are not too nice!
We went climbing on the Sand Dunes at Jockey's Ridge. It was windy, but just magnificent to see God's creation from the top of them!
One night after dinner we played on a HUGE chair. Me looking small!
The girls at the Bodie Light House. Fun times... too bad you can't climb to the top.
Before we went hang gliding... we were all nervous, but LOVED it! :-)
CLEAR! Here I am ready to take off... "walk, walk, jog, jog, run, run!!!" Laser and Orbit were our instructors; they were great and definitely caused us hours of enjoyment (Laser was a character!)
At the top of the sand dunes...
The Wright Memorial... acting out the incredible statement... "Achieved through unconquerable faith." (or something along those lines.)
It was great. Can't wait to go back again... or just go somewhere new. Anyone want to hang gliding with me again?
7.03.2008
Opinions
These questions were originally posted here, and I thought I would add my two cents for all of you who care... or just because it gives me something to bite off and chew as I process through what God is teaching me. (which, by the way, is that I need to actually care about theology and I am working through that. I am beginning to read more and to be ok with having to read things multiple times to understand. Then once I understand the theology, trying to search where in Scripture it is backed up.)
+ Will the individual faiths of John McCain and Barack Obama (as known through their writing and what is reported) influence your vote in November? Do you think it should or shouldn't?
Good question, my friends.
In and ideal world, the President of the US would be a Christian and we would know because his actions and character would lead us to believe there has been a genuine change of heart.
But that being said, I personally do not believe the President needs to be a Christian. And for that matter, if the person you choose to vote for is a Christian, then put that on the plus side for him. However... do I think a voter should vote for a person only because they are a Christian? NO!!! being a Christian does not necessarily make a good leader, especially for a county that was founded as a FREE nation with a SEPARATION of church and state.
Ultimately, no it will not influence my vote at first glance. If I was torn, it might sway me. But for this upcoming election, I am not torn. I know who I am voting for. Go Obama (and no he isn't perfect, but I don't want another four years for a Bush wanna be, and that is what McCain is turning into... what happened to the moderate I used to like? Did he want the presidency so bad that he was willing to stop being himself? not cool, McCain, not cool).
+ Do you believe the Bible is the inerrant Word of God, and if not, how does that affect your view of Jesus?
I personally do believe that the Bible is the inerrant Word of God.
But, did you all know it took me a long time to reach this conclusion, and to be ok with that?
I grew up believing that the Bible was just a book written for its time with little bearing on my life. When I became a Christian my senior year of High School, I took a leap of faith, I guess. I decided that even if I can't fully comprehend the Jesus was both fully man and fully God, or understand why He would die for me, or how God could make this world in only 7 days, or how come there seems to be some evidence for evolution, etc I did believe in the Gospel and I was going to start living that way.
It took me a while to really comprehend all the changes that would come with believing in God and all that it meant. It was probably about a year or so later that I really had to start coming to terms with the Bible being the inerrant Word of God. Some days i still don't want to believe it... why does it have to be so hard, and so seemingly (by the world's terms) exclusive and judgemental? But, I do believe in Jesus, and He makes no mistakes, including in His word. And honestly, there is no explanation for why I changed my mind except to say that it is the work of the Holy Spirit in me.
+ Whom do you believe is primarily responsible for caring for the poor and oppressed: the government, the local church, or the individual?
Another good question.
I think responsibility falls on all parties here... but I guess ultimately to the individual, because that is where it has to start.
I personally do not do enough for the poor and the oppressed. I speak lots, but do little. And that is something I absolutely need to work on. And I will admit I don't do much because I am comfortable right here in America with little everyday contact with the poor and oppressed in my own town, country and ultimately world. But, God has given me as believer the ability to empathize with these people and to want to do more, to think as humans, as God's creation they deserve more and should be treated with more respect than that.
But now, I do think there is some responsibility that goes to the local church. Why as a church are we not loving the least of us? Pretty sure Jesus did, pretty sure He told us to in Matthew 25 (see verse 40, specifically). I don't think we are doing too well here, church. again, I am one of the worst and a huge hypocrite here, and I will answer for it someday. We should be feeding the hungry, clothing the naked... and loving those who do not know him, including homosexuals, those who have had abortions, drug addicts, all of them. And more often than not the church judges them and sends them on their way. That is sad. So, I think we as a church have a responsibility to do something.
And finally, the government should do something. My reasons are very "Christianized" if you will, well, because I am a Christian and that is how I see and respond to the world. But as evidenced by all the non Christians who do many great and wonderful things for mankind, the government should be doing something and taking care of its own people.
Ok... hope all my opinions don't offend too many... and, well, that they made sense. But here is what I was thinking.
Let's all go and do something... volunteer, love the lost, do something to love the least!
+ Will the individual faiths of John McCain and Barack Obama (as known through their writing and what is reported) influence your vote in November? Do you think it should or shouldn't?
Good question, my friends.
In and ideal world, the President of the US would be a Christian and we would know because his actions and character would lead us to believe there has been a genuine change of heart.
But that being said, I personally do not believe the President needs to be a Christian. And for that matter, if the person you choose to vote for is a Christian, then put that on the plus side for him. However... do I think a voter should vote for a person only because they are a Christian? NO!!! being a Christian does not necessarily make a good leader, especially for a county that was founded as a FREE nation with a SEPARATION of church and state.
Ultimately, no it will not influence my vote at first glance. If I was torn, it might sway me. But for this upcoming election, I am not torn. I know who I am voting for. Go Obama (and no he isn't perfect, but I don't want another four years for a Bush wanna be, and that is what McCain is turning into... what happened to the moderate I used to like? Did he want the presidency so bad that he was willing to stop being himself? not cool, McCain, not cool).
+ Do you believe the Bible is the inerrant Word of God, and if not, how does that affect your view of Jesus?
I personally do believe that the Bible is the inerrant Word of God.
But, did you all know it took me a long time to reach this conclusion, and to be ok with that?
I grew up believing that the Bible was just a book written for its time with little bearing on my life. When I became a Christian my senior year of High School, I took a leap of faith, I guess. I decided that even if I can't fully comprehend the Jesus was both fully man and fully God, or understand why He would die for me, or how God could make this world in only 7 days, or how come there seems to be some evidence for evolution, etc I did believe in the Gospel and I was going to start living that way.
It took me a while to really comprehend all the changes that would come with believing in God and all that it meant. It was probably about a year or so later that I really had to start coming to terms with the Bible being the inerrant Word of God. Some days i still don't want to believe it... why does it have to be so hard, and so seemingly (by the world's terms) exclusive and judgemental? But, I do believe in Jesus, and He makes no mistakes, including in His word. And honestly, there is no explanation for why I changed my mind except to say that it is the work of the Holy Spirit in me.
+ Whom do you believe is primarily responsible for caring for the poor and oppressed: the government, the local church, or the individual?
Another good question.
I think responsibility falls on all parties here... but I guess ultimately to the individual, because that is where it has to start.
I personally do not do enough for the poor and the oppressed. I speak lots, but do little. And that is something I absolutely need to work on. And I will admit I don't do much because I am comfortable right here in America with little everyday contact with the poor and oppressed in my own town, country and ultimately world. But, God has given me as believer the ability to empathize with these people and to want to do more, to think as humans, as God's creation they deserve more and should be treated with more respect than that.
But now, I do think there is some responsibility that goes to the local church. Why as a church are we not loving the least of us? Pretty sure Jesus did, pretty sure He told us to in Matthew 25 (see verse 40, specifically). I don't think we are doing too well here, church. again, I am one of the worst and a huge hypocrite here, and I will answer for it someday. We should be feeding the hungry, clothing the naked... and loving those who do not know him, including homosexuals, those who have had abortions, drug addicts, all of them. And more often than not the church judges them and sends them on their way. That is sad. So, I think we as a church have a responsibility to do something.
And finally, the government should do something. My reasons are very "Christianized" if you will, well, because I am a Christian and that is how I see and respond to the world. But as evidenced by all the non Christians who do many great and wonderful things for mankind, the government should be doing something and taking care of its own people.
Ok... hope all my opinions don't offend too many... and, well, that they made sense. But here is what I was thinking.
Let's all go and do something... volunteer, love the lost, do something to love the least!
7.02.2008
100 Random Questions
100 Random questions list...
1. ONE OF YOUR SCARS, HOW DID YOU GET IT?
I don't have too many scars. I guess I was a careful child. BUT, there is one on the top of my right foot and for the life of me I can't tell you how I got it. I think it was from when I fell of my bike in Elementary school, but I don't remember...
2. WHAT DOES YOUR CELL PHONE LOOK LIKE?
Its a black, flip Samsung. I want a fancy one, but until this one dies, it won't happen.
3. WHAT MUSIC DO YOU LIKE TO LISTEN TO?
Pretty much anything except Rap... and Heavy Metal. But, currently I am listening to my "Chill" play list.
4. DO YOU KNOW WHAT TIME YOU WERE BORN?
4:50 ish... can never remember exactly. I do know my Dad told my mom that morning (on the way to work), "If it's another false alarm, don't call me."
5. WHAT DO YOU WANT MORE THAN ANYTHING RIGHT NOW?
Chick-fil-a... or money, one or the other
6. WHAT DO YOU MISS THE MOST?
727 Oakland... what fun house to live in. Those girls were/are amazing! :-)
7. WHAT IS YOUR MOST PRIZED POSSESSION?
to answer this super spiritual? nah, I really like my iPod. I go nowhere without it.
8. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SMELL?
salt-water air... hmmm, the beach :-)
9. DO YOU GET CLAUSTROPHOBIC?
in big crowds...
10. DO YOU GET SCARED IN THE DARK?
not normally, but if I have just seen a scary movie, then yes!
11. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE COLOGNE / PERFUME TO WEAR?
ummm... I don't know. I am actually quite cologne/perfume dumb
12. WHAT KIND OF HAIR DO YOU LIKE ON THE OPPOSITE SEX?
doesn't matter... but I do think some guys pull of the shaggy hair look really well...
13. WHERE CAN YOU SEE YOURSELF BEING PROPOSED TO AT?
not in front of a crowd, and if it is in front of a crowd I will say no
14. COFFEE OR ENERGY DRINKS?
neither, if I need energy I reach for Coca Cola!
15. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PIZZA TOPPING?
any type of meat
16. IF YOU CAN EAT ANYTHING RIGHT NOW, WHAT WOULD IT BE?
Chick fil a Mini Biscuits
17. WHO IS THE LAST PERSON YOU MADE MAD?
umm... I leave her nameless, but lets just say I don't appreciate gossip.
18. DO YOU SPEAK A DIFFERENT LANGUAGE?
after 6 years of German class I should be able to, but I can't... so no.
19. WHAT WAS THE FIRST GIFT SOMEONE EVER GAVE YOU (OF THE OPPOSITE SEX)?
my 4th grade boyfriend (and no I am not kidding) gave me a necklace. I still have it if you want proof.
20. WOULD YOU FALL IN LOVE KNOWING THAT THE PERSON IS LEAVING?
probably not?
21. WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO TELL SOMEONE HOW MUCH THEY MEAN TO YOU?
to tell them. but I am normally too chicken to do that.
22. SAY A NUMBER FROM ONE TO A HUNDRED.
21, I have always loved that number...
23. BLONDES OR BRUNETTES?
doesn't matter
24. WHAT IS THE ONE NUMBER YOU CALL OFTEN?
probably my parents.... or my mom's work number
25. WHAT ANNOYS YOU MOST?
people being two-faced
26. HAS ANYONE EVER SPIT ON YOU?
actually, yes. I went to the OSU v. UM game at the OSU stadium (dubbed "the shoe"), and the drunk girl behind me decided to spit on me. Maybe drunk people annoy me the most... that's my new answer to 25.
27. YOUR WEAKNESSES?
so many... but probably caring too much about what people think of me.
28. WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST JOB?
let's assume you don't mean babysitting... Chick-fil-a!
29. EVER DONE A PRANK CALL?
no... too chicken for that!
30. WHAT WERE YOU DOING BEFORE YOU FILLED OUT THIS SURVEY?
working... which is what I should be doing now.
31. IF YOU COULD GET PLASTIC SURGERY WHAT WOULD IT BE?
liposuction probably.
32. WHY DID YOU FILL OUT THIS SURVEY?
because I did... I don't know... because I think blog world cares to know?
33. WHAT DO YOU GET COMPLIMENTED ABOUT MOST?
my hair.
34. WHAT WOULD YOU DO IF ALCOHOL BECAME ILLEGAL?
not buy it... probably wouldn't miss it either
35. WHAT DO YOU WANT FOR YOUR BIRTHDAY?
GPS, or Wii Fit... at least that is what I say now. Ask me again in November
36. HOW MANY KIDS DO YOU WANT?
lots... I say 5, but I don't care. And I want to adopt.
37. WERE YOU NAMED AFTER ANYONE?
yes. one of my dad's students when he first started teaching. He liked the "Jaye P" and asked my mom if they could name their future daughter that... she said yes and here I am!
38. DO YOU WISH ON STARS?
nope... but I do make wishes when I blow out my birthday candles.
39. WHICH FINGER[S] IS YOUR FAVORITE?
probably my pinky...
40. WHEN DID YOU LAST CRY?
probably at Extreme Home Makeover... it gets me almost every time.
41. DO YOU LIKE YOUR HANDWRITING?
when I write neatly, yes.
42. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE LUNCH MEAT?
Roast Beef, probably
43. ANY BAD HABITS?
procrastination... being lazy (for proof, look at my room)
44. WHAT IS YOUR MOST EMBARRASSING CD YOU OWN?
Sooo many... maybe either one of the High School Musical Soundtracks
45. IF YOU WERE ANOTHER PERSON, WOULD YOU BE FRIENDS WITH YOU?
I would hope so, but maybe our personalities wouldn't match and that's ok,too!
46. DO LOOKS MATTER?
nope... but in marriage you should at least be attracted to the person
47. HOW DO YOU RELEASE ANGER?
stew, then rant about it in my head to someone and then I am done... occasionally I'll throw something
48. WHERE IS YOUR SECOND HOME?
Well... Ann Arbor, MI probably
49. DO YOU TRUST OTHERS EASILY?
typically, unless you prove yourself unworthy of my trust and then it is hard to get me to do so.
50. WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE TOY AS A CHILD?
any book
51. DO YOU USE SARCASM?
nope. never. not even once in my life.
52. HAVE YOU EVER BEEN IN A MOSH PIT?
yes, I have.
53. WHAT DO YOU LOOK FOR IN A GUY/GIRL?
personality. do they make me feel comfortable in my skin. do I laugh when I am around them.
54. WHAT ARE YOUR NICKNAMES?
well, if you know me as Jaye P, then that gotten shortened to Jaye (which is my real name)... but other than that... none
Oh, wait... there is "purebred" and no you don't get to know why.
55. DO YOU UN-TIE YOUR SHOES WHEN YOU TAKE THEM OFF?
heck no, that takes time!
56. WHAT'S YOUR FAVORITE ICE CREAM FLAVOR?
either Beyer's Vanilla Bean or Ben and Jerry's Cinnamon Buns
57. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE COLOR?
Cerulean Blue
58. HOW MANY WISDOM TEETH DO YOU HAVE?
none... they came out as soon as they started coming in. I have also had 4 other permanent teeth pulled... too big of teeth in a small mouth.
59. WHO/WHAT DO YOU MISS MOST RIGHT NOW?
feeling comfortable in my skin around people...
60. DO YOU WANT EVERYONE TO ANSWER THESE QUESTIONS?
sure!
61. WHAT ARE YOU LISTENING TO RIGHT NOW?
Jars of Clay, Redemption Songs
62. LAST THING YOU ATE?
last night... a bowl of ice cream, yummy!
63. LAST PERSON YOU TALKED TO ON THE PHONE?
Kristen... couldn't remember her building number
64. THE FIRST THING YOU NOTICE IN THE PREFERRED SEX?
smile... or eyes
65. WHERE WERE YOU BORN?
Norfolk (VA) General Hospital
66. SCARIEST THING THAT HAS EVER HAPPENED TO YOU?
I don't know... moving to a city where I didn't know anyone?
67. FAVORITE DRINK?
Coca Cola, hands down. ice cold, out of a can!
68. FAVORITE JOKE?
anything with sarcasm...
69. FAVORITE SPORT?
Football. College Football. Big Ten College Football. Michigan Football! First game is Labor Day weekend! :-)
70. YOUR HAIR COLOR?
Brown
71. YOUR EYE COLOR?
Green/blue/hazel depending on the day, my mood and what I am wearing
72. DO YOU WEAR GLASSES?
yes... but mainly you see me with my contacts in
73. SIBLINGS?
yep, one younger brother... he's awesome, too, in case you were wondering.
74. FAVORITE MONTH
this is a hard one... either May when spring is getting under way or September/Oct and Fall is getting crisp and the leaves are changing
75. YOU LIKE SUSHI
sure, but you need to tell me what kind to get
76. LAST THING YOU WATCHED?
last night... REBA (it is actually a really funny show!)
77. FAVORITE DAY OF THE YEAR?
Christmas Eve... the anticipation is still there!
78. ARE YOU TOO SHY TO ASK SOMEONE OUT?
heck yes... won't catch me doing that.
79.SUMMER OR WINTER?
summer... although I do like winter too
80. RELATIONSHIPS OR ONE NIGHT STANDS?
duh, relationships
81. WHO DO YOU SECRETLY LOVE?
not telling you blog world, sorry
82. FAVORITE SONG AT THE MOMENT?
sooo many... I really like the John Mayer "Say" or Jason Mraz "I'm Yours"
83. LAKE OR OCEAN?
Ocean... unless it is Lake Michigan
84. BIGGEST TURNOFF?
egos... you're not that cool Mr. Jerk
85. LAST TIME YOU SAW YOUR BEST FRIEND
April, at Sarah and Jeremy's wedding... too long ago...
86. LAST KISS:
high school
87. LAST TEXT YOU RECEIVED:
from Christine to tell me we should talk soon... I agree!
88. DO YOU HAVE A CRUSH:
again, you don't get to know blog world
89. DO YOU WISH YOU CAN SEE ANYONE PARTICULAR RIGHT NOW:
umm... my best friend, or I enjoy seeing my family
90. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE NAME?
Ayden- spelled just like that, too
91. HIGH SCHOOL YOU ATTENTED/ ARE ATTENDING:
Frank W. Cox High School, Class of 02
92. WHERE ARE YOU NOW:
Raleigh, NC at work
93. ARE YOU SMILING:
not currently... but when I think about going to the Outer Banks this weekend, yes!
94. WHAT ARE YOU WEARING:
a black skirt, blue polo
96. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE MOVIE?
do I have to choose one? Sound of Music! no, Crash! no, Shawshank Redemption! no, Dead Poet's Society!
97. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SONG?
I can't do this... Under Pressure by Queen? maybe It is Well With my Soul? too many good songs to choose
98. WHEN WAS YOUR LAST RELATIONSHIP?
high school
99. EVER BEEN DRUNK?
nope...
100. PLAN ON GETTING DRUNK SOON:
nope...
1. ONE OF YOUR SCARS, HOW DID YOU GET IT?
I don't have too many scars. I guess I was a careful child. BUT, there is one on the top of my right foot and for the life of me I can't tell you how I got it. I think it was from when I fell of my bike in Elementary school, but I don't remember...
2. WHAT DOES YOUR CELL PHONE LOOK LIKE?
Its a black, flip Samsung. I want a fancy one, but until this one dies, it won't happen.
3. WHAT MUSIC DO YOU LIKE TO LISTEN TO?
Pretty much anything except Rap... and Heavy Metal. But, currently I am listening to my "Chill" play list.
4. DO YOU KNOW WHAT TIME YOU WERE BORN?
4:50 ish... can never remember exactly. I do know my Dad told my mom that morning (on the way to work), "If it's another false alarm, don't call me."
5. WHAT DO YOU WANT MORE THAN ANYTHING RIGHT NOW?
Chick-fil-a... or money, one or the other
6. WHAT DO YOU MISS THE MOST?
727 Oakland... what fun house to live in. Those girls were/are amazing! :-)
7. WHAT IS YOUR MOST PRIZED POSSESSION?
to answer this super spiritual? nah, I really like my iPod. I go nowhere without it.
8. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SMELL?
salt-water air... hmmm, the beach :-)
9. DO YOU GET CLAUSTROPHOBIC?
in big crowds...
10. DO YOU GET SCARED IN THE DARK?
not normally, but if I have just seen a scary movie, then yes!
11. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE COLOGNE / PERFUME TO WEAR?
ummm... I don't know. I am actually quite cologne/perfume dumb
12. WHAT KIND OF HAIR DO YOU LIKE ON THE OPPOSITE SEX?
doesn't matter... but I do think some guys pull of the shaggy hair look really well...
13. WHERE CAN YOU SEE YOURSELF BEING PROPOSED TO AT?
not in front of a crowd, and if it is in front of a crowd I will say no
14. COFFEE OR ENERGY DRINKS?
neither, if I need energy I reach for Coca Cola!
15. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PIZZA TOPPING?
any type of meat
16. IF YOU CAN EAT ANYTHING RIGHT NOW, WHAT WOULD IT BE?
Chick fil a Mini Biscuits
17. WHO IS THE LAST PERSON YOU MADE MAD?
umm... I leave her nameless, but lets just say I don't appreciate gossip.
18. DO YOU SPEAK A DIFFERENT LANGUAGE?
after 6 years of German class I should be able to, but I can't... so no.
19. WHAT WAS THE FIRST GIFT SOMEONE EVER GAVE YOU (OF THE OPPOSITE SEX)?
my 4th grade boyfriend (and no I am not kidding) gave me a necklace. I still have it if you want proof.
20. WOULD YOU FALL IN LOVE KNOWING THAT THE PERSON IS LEAVING?
probably not?
21. WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO TELL SOMEONE HOW MUCH THEY MEAN TO YOU?
to tell them. but I am normally too chicken to do that.
22. SAY A NUMBER FROM ONE TO A HUNDRED.
21, I have always loved that number...
23. BLONDES OR BRUNETTES?
doesn't matter
24. WHAT IS THE ONE NUMBER YOU CALL OFTEN?
probably my parents.... or my mom's work number
25. WHAT ANNOYS YOU MOST?
people being two-faced
26. HAS ANYONE EVER SPIT ON YOU?
actually, yes. I went to the OSU v. UM game at the OSU stadium (dubbed "the shoe"), and the drunk girl behind me decided to spit on me. Maybe drunk people annoy me the most... that's my new answer to 25.
27. YOUR WEAKNESSES?
so many... but probably caring too much about what people think of me.
28. WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST JOB?
let's assume you don't mean babysitting... Chick-fil-a!
29. EVER DONE A PRANK CALL?
no... too chicken for that!
30. WHAT WERE YOU DOING BEFORE YOU FILLED OUT THIS SURVEY?
working... which is what I should be doing now.
31. IF YOU COULD GET PLASTIC SURGERY WHAT WOULD IT BE?
liposuction probably.
32. WHY DID YOU FILL OUT THIS SURVEY?
because I did... I don't know... because I think blog world cares to know?
33. WHAT DO YOU GET COMPLIMENTED ABOUT MOST?
my hair.
34. WHAT WOULD YOU DO IF ALCOHOL BECAME ILLEGAL?
not buy it... probably wouldn't miss it either
35. WHAT DO YOU WANT FOR YOUR BIRTHDAY?
GPS, or Wii Fit... at least that is what I say now. Ask me again in November
36. HOW MANY KIDS DO YOU WANT?
lots... I say 5, but I don't care. And I want to adopt.
37. WERE YOU NAMED AFTER ANYONE?
yes. one of my dad's students when he first started teaching. He liked the "Jaye P" and asked my mom if they could name their future daughter that... she said yes and here I am!
38. DO YOU WISH ON STARS?
nope... but I do make wishes when I blow out my birthday candles.
39. WHICH FINGER[S] IS YOUR FAVORITE?
probably my pinky...
40. WHEN DID YOU LAST CRY?
probably at Extreme Home Makeover... it gets me almost every time.
41. DO YOU LIKE YOUR HANDWRITING?
when I write neatly, yes.
42. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE LUNCH MEAT?
Roast Beef, probably
43. ANY BAD HABITS?
procrastination... being lazy (for proof, look at my room)
44. WHAT IS YOUR MOST EMBARRASSING CD YOU OWN?
Sooo many... maybe either one of the High School Musical Soundtracks
45. IF YOU WERE ANOTHER PERSON, WOULD YOU BE FRIENDS WITH YOU?
I would hope so, but maybe our personalities wouldn't match and that's ok,too!
46. DO LOOKS MATTER?
nope... but in marriage you should at least be attracted to the person
47. HOW DO YOU RELEASE ANGER?
stew, then rant about it in my head to someone and then I am done... occasionally I'll throw something
48. WHERE IS YOUR SECOND HOME?
Well... Ann Arbor, MI probably
49. DO YOU TRUST OTHERS EASILY?
typically, unless you prove yourself unworthy of my trust and then it is hard to get me to do so.
50. WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE TOY AS A CHILD?
any book
51. DO YOU USE SARCASM?
nope. never. not even once in my life.
52. HAVE YOU EVER BEEN IN A MOSH PIT?
yes, I have.
53. WHAT DO YOU LOOK FOR IN A GUY/GIRL?
personality. do they make me feel comfortable in my skin. do I laugh when I am around them.
54. WHAT ARE YOUR NICKNAMES?
well, if you know me as Jaye P, then that gotten shortened to Jaye (which is my real name)... but other than that... none
Oh, wait... there is "purebred" and no you don't get to know why.
55. DO YOU UN-TIE YOUR SHOES WHEN YOU TAKE THEM OFF?
heck no, that takes time!
56. WHAT'S YOUR FAVORITE ICE CREAM FLAVOR?
either Beyer's Vanilla Bean or Ben and Jerry's Cinnamon Buns
57. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE COLOR?
Cerulean Blue
58. HOW MANY WISDOM TEETH DO YOU HAVE?
none... they came out as soon as they started coming in. I have also had 4 other permanent teeth pulled... too big of teeth in a small mouth.
59. WHO/WHAT DO YOU MISS MOST RIGHT NOW?
feeling comfortable in my skin around people...
60. DO YOU WANT EVERYONE TO ANSWER THESE QUESTIONS?
sure!
61. WHAT ARE YOU LISTENING TO RIGHT NOW?
Jars of Clay, Redemption Songs
62. LAST THING YOU ATE?
last night... a bowl of ice cream, yummy!
63. LAST PERSON YOU TALKED TO ON THE PHONE?
Kristen... couldn't remember her building number
64. THE FIRST THING YOU NOTICE IN THE PREFERRED SEX?
smile... or eyes
65. WHERE WERE YOU BORN?
Norfolk (VA) General Hospital
66. SCARIEST THING THAT HAS EVER HAPPENED TO YOU?
I don't know... moving to a city where I didn't know anyone?
67. FAVORITE DRINK?
Coca Cola, hands down. ice cold, out of a can!
68. FAVORITE JOKE?
anything with sarcasm...
69. FAVORITE SPORT?
Football. College Football. Big Ten College Football. Michigan Football! First game is Labor Day weekend! :-)
70. YOUR HAIR COLOR?
Brown
71. YOUR EYE COLOR?
Green/blue/hazel depending on the day, my mood and what I am wearing
72. DO YOU WEAR GLASSES?
yes... but mainly you see me with my contacts in
73. SIBLINGS?
yep, one younger brother... he's awesome, too, in case you were wondering.
74. FAVORITE MONTH
this is a hard one... either May when spring is getting under way or September/Oct and Fall is getting crisp and the leaves are changing
75. YOU LIKE SUSHI
sure, but you need to tell me what kind to get
76. LAST THING YOU WATCHED?
last night... REBA (it is actually a really funny show!)
77. FAVORITE DAY OF THE YEAR?
Christmas Eve... the anticipation is still there!
78. ARE YOU TOO SHY TO ASK SOMEONE OUT?
heck yes... won't catch me doing that.
79.SUMMER OR WINTER?
summer... although I do like winter too
80. RELATIONSHIPS OR ONE NIGHT STANDS?
duh, relationships
81. WHO DO YOU SECRETLY LOVE?
not telling you blog world, sorry
82. FAVORITE SONG AT THE MOMENT?
sooo many... I really like the John Mayer "Say" or Jason Mraz "I'm Yours"
83. LAKE OR OCEAN?
Ocean... unless it is Lake Michigan
84. BIGGEST TURNOFF?
egos... you're not that cool Mr. Jerk
85. LAST TIME YOU SAW YOUR BEST FRIEND
April, at Sarah and Jeremy's wedding... too long ago...
86. LAST KISS:
high school
87. LAST TEXT YOU RECEIVED:
from Christine to tell me we should talk soon... I agree!
88. DO YOU HAVE A CRUSH:
again, you don't get to know blog world
89. DO YOU WISH YOU CAN SEE ANYONE PARTICULAR RIGHT NOW:
umm... my best friend, or I enjoy seeing my family
90. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE NAME?
Ayden- spelled just like that, too
91. HIGH SCHOOL YOU ATTENTED/ ARE ATTENDING:
Frank W. Cox High School, Class of 02
92. WHERE ARE YOU NOW:
Raleigh, NC at work
93. ARE YOU SMILING:
not currently... but when I think about going to the Outer Banks this weekend, yes!
94. WHAT ARE YOU WEARING:
a black skirt, blue polo
96. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE MOVIE?
do I have to choose one? Sound of Music! no, Crash! no, Shawshank Redemption! no, Dead Poet's Society!
97. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SONG?
I can't do this... Under Pressure by Queen? maybe It is Well With my Soul? too many good songs to choose
98. WHEN WAS YOUR LAST RELATIONSHIP?
high school
99. EVER BEEN DRUNK?
nope...
100. PLAN ON GETTING DRUNK SOON:
nope...
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