So here I am... 0300 and unable to sleep. Maybe I will write to keep my mind off things, however, the things on my haunt me, taunt me and carry me deep to places I dare not travel. Why not travel there you say? Because, there is a darkness that wants to trap me there. Thoughts carry my soul away to a place where there isn't even the faintest of light. The enemy tries to lure me there, to enslave my soul, place chains upon my mind so that I cannot reach Him.
These thoughts start small with little questions, "why?", "why not?", and "see?"... Then they start to get bigger by turning into "how could anyone?", "not so cool now?" "who are you without them?" But the worst thing I could do is answer these false questions. To think, "it's true" or "I am not needed" just gives the enemy that little bit of breath to snuff out my candle. My little light source that can make a dark room appear as tho it has been touched by the morning sunrise.
To dwell on these thoughts and ideas is just how my soul gets trapped into the dark, deadly mind game that the enemy knows all to well. The enemy knows me to well. But not as well as Him; that is why he attempts to lead me astray, so that I can not be under the protection of He who knows me better than i do.
So as I sit here, in my dark room, typing by the light of the computer screen, I ask of Him, my father, creator, mentor, guardian...
PROTECT ME!! I AM CRYING PROTECT ME...
from evil,
from the dark,
from the deep wounds of loved ones,
from anyone who plans to harm me... but mostly I ask YOU, LORD of my heart
PROTECT ME FROM...
me.
Friday, November 19, 2010
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
The Westboro Baptist Church
So here I am again readers, I took a little break to get my life in order. I have moved to Fort Benning and am about to embark on the next phase of my life as a soldier, both for Christ and for America. In doing so, I believe that my first plan of action is to shed a little light on a very dark subject. This being the subject of the theology and teachings of the Westboro Baptist Church. Now, for those of you who are unfamiliar with the WBC, they are the "church" that pickets military funerals, Christian colleges and anywhere else they feel like making an appearance saying that God has killed soldiers and doomed America because of our sinful ways. I have been to the website of this "cult" (I refuse to call them a church because they go against everything that Jesus said the church should be (loving, forgiving and light-bringing) and have found that their whole philosophy has more wholes than a block of swiss cheese. Paul, one of the most famous authors, brothers and teachers in the New Testament was an advocate for the church claiming that we were all one body under Christ. However, this WBC has raised itself above all other churches in the world and claiming their "holier than thou" ways.
On their website, titled "God Hates Fags" they site the verse Lev. 20:23, "... therefore I abhorred them". The use of an ellipsis at the beginning shows that they could not use the whole verse and thus taking scripture out of context to go with their thinking. What the WBC should be focusing on is the scriptures found in the New Testament that focus on the new covenant that Jesus brought. The whole verse in Leviticus states, "You must not live according to the customs of the nations I am going to drive out before you. Because they did all these things, I abhorred them." Here, God was talking to the Israelites about giving them the land of Molach and keeping a promise to his people. He was talking about a people who had never followed His laws or been redeemed by His love. God was not specifically saying this about homosexuals. God hates only evil, pure evil.
John MacArthur, a Biblical Scholar has answered the age old question on what God hates. It is listed below:
What does God hate?
Proverbs 6:17-19 lists seven things that God hates. In a Hebrew idiom used for emphasis, Solomon said, "These six things doth the LORD hate; yea, seven are an abomination unto him:"
1. A proud look
Pride is manifested in lofty eyes, which is the literal Hebrew meaning of that phrase. Someone who is prideful has his nose in the air and his eyes uplifted. When pride fills the heart, it is reflected in one's mannerisms. God hates people who disdain everyone and everything. The sin of pride is probably listed first because it is the root of all disobedience and rebellion against God (Rom. 1:22).
2. A lying tongue
God is a God of truth who cannot lie (Heb. 6:18). That He loves truth and hates lying is illustrated in the account of Ananias and Sapphira, who lied to the Holy Spirit (Acts 5:1-11). God took their lives as an example to the early church of His holiness.
3. Murderous hands
Verse 17 says that God hates "hands that shed innocent blood." God hates people with murderous, cruel dispositions who will kill rather than be denied or frustrated of what they want. God hates murder because He created life and established its sanctity. Therefore God ordained that when someone takes a life, he should pay with his own life (Gen. 9:6).
4. A wicked heart
God hates "an heart that deviseth wicked imaginations" (v. 18). It's bad enough for a person to do evil, but it's even worse when he plans at great length on how to do it. A wicked heart is the devil's workshop for devising new ways of sinning.
5. Mischievous feet
God also hates "feet that are swift in running to mischief" (v. 18). The difference between this and normal sinning is that normal sinning is described in the Bible as a falling or a tripping. But the mischievous person purposely runs as fast as he can--he's in a hurry to sin.
6. A false witness
Another thing God hates is "a false witness that speaketh lies" (v. 19). God hates people who put the blame on an innocent party. David, Jesus, and Paul experienced accusations by false witnesses (Ps. 27:12; Matt. 26:59-61; Acts 25:7-8). Bearing false witness obstructs justice, destroys reputations, and even destroys lives in some cases.
7. A devisive spirit
Verse 19 says that God also hates people who "soweth discord among brethren." Troublemakers create divisions where there should be unity.
The things God hates are in direct opposition to the things He loves: truth, goodness, and unity. Because He loves men to worship Him in truth, He hates idolatry and hypocritical religion. His hatred is the antithesis of His love.
Nowhere in these scriptures does is state that God hates fags or that he is killing American soldiers because of God's hate for people. God hates the sin, not the sinner. However, I do see that the WBC has a proud look with picketing, a lying tongue by twisting God's words, a false witness by putting blame on innocent soldiers and a devisive spirit because they have split of from the true canon and doctrines of what Christ designed the church to be.
I think that the Westboro Cult needs to read the Book of Revelation, Book of Isaiah and as they do such, I will do the one thing I do best. I will pray for God to touch their hearts, open their hearts and eyes and that the Holy Spirit will fall upon them to give them wisdom and understnading that instead of condemning the world, they need to look a helping to save it. I was sent here, we all were sent on a mission to futher the Kingdom of God, not destroy it.
On their website, titled "God Hates Fags" they site the verse Lev. 20:23, "... therefore I abhorred them". The use of an ellipsis at the beginning shows that they could not use the whole verse and thus taking scripture out of context to go with their thinking. What the WBC should be focusing on is the scriptures found in the New Testament that focus on the new covenant that Jesus brought. The whole verse in Leviticus states, "You must not live according to the customs of the nations I am going to drive out before you. Because they did all these things, I abhorred them." Here, God was talking to the Israelites about giving them the land of Molach and keeping a promise to his people. He was talking about a people who had never followed His laws or been redeemed by His love. God was not specifically saying this about homosexuals. God hates only evil, pure evil.
John MacArthur, a Biblical Scholar has answered the age old question on what God hates. It is listed below:
What does God hate?
Proverbs 6:17-19 lists seven things that God hates. In a Hebrew idiom used for emphasis, Solomon said, "These six things doth the LORD hate; yea, seven are an abomination unto him:"
1. A proud look
Pride is manifested in lofty eyes, which is the literal Hebrew meaning of that phrase. Someone who is prideful has his nose in the air and his eyes uplifted. When pride fills the heart, it is reflected in one's mannerisms. God hates people who disdain everyone and everything. The sin of pride is probably listed first because it is the root of all disobedience and rebellion against God (Rom. 1:22).
2. A lying tongue
God is a God of truth who cannot lie (Heb. 6:18). That He loves truth and hates lying is illustrated in the account of Ananias and Sapphira, who lied to the Holy Spirit (Acts 5:1-11). God took their lives as an example to the early church of His holiness.
3. Murderous hands
Verse 17 says that God hates "hands that shed innocent blood." God hates people with murderous, cruel dispositions who will kill rather than be denied or frustrated of what they want. God hates murder because He created life and established its sanctity. Therefore God ordained that when someone takes a life, he should pay with his own life (Gen. 9:6).
4. A wicked heart
God hates "an heart that deviseth wicked imaginations" (v. 18). It's bad enough for a person to do evil, but it's even worse when he plans at great length on how to do it. A wicked heart is the devil's workshop for devising new ways of sinning.
5. Mischievous feet
God also hates "feet that are swift in running to mischief" (v. 18). The difference between this and normal sinning is that normal sinning is described in the Bible as a falling or a tripping. But the mischievous person purposely runs as fast as he can--he's in a hurry to sin.
6. A false witness
Another thing God hates is "a false witness that speaketh lies" (v. 19). God hates people who put the blame on an innocent party. David, Jesus, and Paul experienced accusations by false witnesses (Ps. 27:12; Matt. 26:59-61; Acts 25:7-8). Bearing false witness obstructs justice, destroys reputations, and even destroys lives in some cases.
7. A devisive spirit
Verse 19 says that God also hates people who "soweth discord among brethren." Troublemakers create divisions where there should be unity.
The things God hates are in direct opposition to the things He loves: truth, goodness, and unity. Because He loves men to worship Him in truth, He hates idolatry and hypocritical religion. His hatred is the antithesis of His love.
Nowhere in these scriptures does is state that God hates fags or that he is killing American soldiers because of God's hate for people. God hates the sin, not the sinner. However, I do see that the WBC has a proud look with picketing, a lying tongue by twisting God's words, a false witness by putting blame on innocent soldiers and a devisive spirit because they have split of from the true canon and doctrines of what Christ designed the church to be.
I think that the Westboro Cult needs to read the Book of Revelation, Book of Isaiah and as they do such, I will do the one thing I do best. I will pray for God to touch their hearts, open their hearts and eyes and that the Holy Spirit will fall upon them to give them wisdom and understnading that instead of condemning the world, they need to look a helping to save it. I was sent here, we all were sent on a mission to futher the Kingdom of God, not destroy it.
Monday, August 23, 2010
Jack of All Trades
Throughout my lifetime, I have met people that have done one or two different jobs while in high school. They moved on to college, figured out a major and worked in that respective field. Upon graduation, they then got a job that related to their major. Teachers, nurses, reporters, professional students and MRS degrees. I have seen it all... however, in my life, I have noticed that this trend is not the path I have chosen. I will now take you on a journey of the different jobs I have had, different skills I have learned and my plan for the future (as if you did not know some of this already, just bear with me).
Age 15-16 (1999-2000): Food Runner/Porter at Lilac Lanes (I gave people their food, cleaned up their messes and rented lanes to bowlers)
Age 17 (2001): Carl's Jr./Hardees (I worked fast food for about month... DEFINITELY not for me)
Age 17-18 (2002-2003): Lawn Mower/Babysitter (pretty self explanatory... if you have questions, feel free to ask though)
Age 19-21 (2004-2006): Postal Worker at Whitworth University (I sorted mail and packages, sold postage, and did the mail run at the on-campus post office)
Age 22 (2006-2007): Whitworth Paint Crew (I painted dorm rooms and buildings on campus)
Age 23-24 (2007-2009) Skyhawks Sports Camps (I coached and directed sports camps for children ages 3-10)
Age 23 (2007-2008) Graduate Assistant (I filed papers, answered phones and was pretty mush a glorified secretary without the respect)
Age 24 (2009) Student Teacher (Even though this was and unpaid job, it was still a job)
Age 24-25 (2009-2010) Soldier in the US Army (I can shoot, choke people out, lead a group of soldiers through a war zone and figure out HR stuff)
Age 25 (2010) The Knitting Factory (I was a bouncer/event staff... pretty much, I threw drunk people out of concerts)
Age 25 (2010) Honda Manufacturing of Alabama, LLC (I am helping with processes and organization of mass production of the 2011 Honda Odyssey)
Oh, and on top of all these jobs I have two degrees... and BA in English and a MEd. in Secondary Education. I feel that God has blessed me with the ability to adapt to this world. God created me to be smart, studious and a quick learner. He has allowed me to learn many skills and to have many opportunities that will no doubt help me in the long run. I want to be a professional soldier (hopefully an officer) one day and I feel that every job I have had up to this Honda job and all the jobs I will have after will make me a better defender and leader of this GREAT nation.
Praise be to God, for His love and mercy ENDURE FOREVER!!
Age 15-16 (1999-2000): Food Runner/Porter at Lilac Lanes (I gave people their food, cleaned up their messes and rented lanes to bowlers)
Age 17 (2001): Carl's Jr./Hardees (I worked fast food for about month... DEFINITELY not for me)
Age 17-18 (2002-2003): Lawn Mower/Babysitter (pretty self explanatory... if you have questions, feel free to ask though)
Age 19-21 (2004-2006): Postal Worker at Whitworth University (I sorted mail and packages, sold postage, and did the mail run at the on-campus post office)
Age 22 (2006-2007): Whitworth Paint Crew (I painted dorm rooms and buildings on campus)
Age 23-24 (2007-2009) Skyhawks Sports Camps (I coached and directed sports camps for children ages 3-10)
Age 23 (2007-2008) Graduate Assistant (I filed papers, answered phones and was pretty mush a glorified secretary without the respect)
Age 24 (2009) Student Teacher (Even though this was and unpaid job, it was still a job)
Age 24-25 (2009-2010) Soldier in the US Army (I can shoot, choke people out, lead a group of soldiers through a war zone and figure out HR stuff)
Age 25 (2010) The Knitting Factory (I was a bouncer/event staff... pretty much, I threw drunk people out of concerts)
Age 25 (2010) Honda Manufacturing of Alabama, LLC (I am helping with processes and organization of mass production of the 2011 Honda Odyssey)
Oh, and on top of all these jobs I have two degrees... and BA in English and a MEd. in Secondary Education. I feel that God has blessed me with the ability to adapt to this world. God created me to be smart, studious and a quick learner. He has allowed me to learn many skills and to have many opportunities that will no doubt help me in the long run. I want to be a professional soldier (hopefully an officer) one day and I feel that every job I have had up to this Honda job and all the jobs I will have after will make me a better defender and leader of this GREAT nation.
Praise be to God, for His love and mercy ENDURE FOREVER!!
Sunday, August 15, 2010
The Language of Prayer
Church of the Highlands is right in the middle of 21 days of prayer. An awesome occurrence that encompasses people getting to the church every morning at 0600 for an hour of prayer and worship to God. Today is the 15th day of this amazing journey and although I do not attend every morning (getting up at 0500 to get there can be a little rough), I have spent an hour a day in prayer with God. We, as members, have prayed for the harvest this fall in getting believers to the church and for the power of God to move in our state and our nation. I have also thrown in a few personal prayers and spent the time growing closer and developing a more personal relationship to God. Yesterday, though, I had a breakthrough and I cannot wait to share it with you.
Saturday, August 14th 2010... prayer starts at 0900 on Saturdays, instead of 0600 (which is awesome), but Madison and I still got up at 0630 so that we could ruck 2 miles before prayer, in order to prepare me for Air Assault School (I am crazy, I know it). After we rucked (in pretty good time I might add), we showered and got ready for an awesome time of prayer. We got to the church just as the prayer director was speaking and we found our seats. As I sat listening, my heart became troubled and I could not get into an attitude of worship or prayer. Once he got off stage, we started singing Jesus Messiah and my heart began to turn toward God and I was getting my prayer attitude back (thank God). After worship, we broke off by ourselves and had a half an hour of prayer time on our own before we came back together as a group to pray over the city. I went to my usual spot, which is up high and pretty secluded so that I can worship God, read aloud and pray aloud to my Heavenly Father without distracting anyone else. As I was pacing, I prayed for the people in my life to have boldness and courage when living a life like Christ and for my own strengths and weaknesses (praying thankfulness for my weaknesses because it makes me that much stronger in Christ) Paul talks about this same thing in 2 Corinthians 12:7-10. All of a sudden God laid it on my heart to pray for the things of His heart, not mine. So I asked the Spirit of align my thoughts and prayers with that of Christ, that I may seek His plans and goals for my life. I also prayed for clarity when speaking and praying aloud to God, not to stumble over my words so that I may communicate clearly with God. I also asked the Spirit to reveal to me my prayer language (which is a special language given to each believer who has the Spirit as a way of my heart communicating with God in my own individual way). I wanted that special relationship and intimateness with my God, so I asked God to let His spirit come inside and fill me up.
Once we were finished, we gather that the front of the stage to pray over the prayer warriors there and for the city, state and nation, so that the harvest may be plenty. As I was praying with the speaker I felt overwhelmed, like I would not get my words out fast enough. I could envision what I wanted to pray, but the words were not coming out right. I stopped for a minute and thought to myself, why can I not speak clearly? So as I continued to pray in this unintelligible language, it became clear to me that it was my Spirit, my prayer language reaching out to God. Now, for all of you skeptics... a prayer language is very different from speaking in tongues. Tongues in Prophesy is the gift given to few, but everyone who is a believer has their own prayer language. Paul clearly states in 1 Corinthians 14:2 that if a person is praying in tongues, he does not speak to men, but to God... for they are mysteries from the man's spirit. Also in the Book of Acts Paul talks about receiving the Holy Spirit and what happens to a believers when he or she gets baptized with the power of the Holy Spirit. Every single person who TRULY receives the holy Spirit and earnestly seeks to become closer to God has a prayer language. It might be gibberish to others, or have an English accent or whatever, but it is your own unique connection and language with God. SO I pray that you seek out that language and connect with your Father on a whole other level, because let me tell you... it is amazing to be consumed with the power of the Holy Spirit.
Some other helpful verses for prayer:
Jude 1:20
Acts 2:1-5
Mark 14:32-38
Saturday, August 14th 2010... prayer starts at 0900 on Saturdays, instead of 0600 (which is awesome), but Madison and I still got up at 0630 so that we could ruck 2 miles before prayer, in order to prepare me for Air Assault School (I am crazy, I know it). After we rucked (in pretty good time I might add), we showered and got ready for an awesome time of prayer. We got to the church just as the prayer director was speaking and we found our seats. As I sat listening, my heart became troubled and I could not get into an attitude of worship or prayer. Once he got off stage, we started singing Jesus Messiah and my heart began to turn toward God and I was getting my prayer attitude back (thank God). After worship, we broke off by ourselves and had a half an hour of prayer time on our own before we came back together as a group to pray over the city. I went to my usual spot, which is up high and pretty secluded so that I can worship God, read aloud and pray aloud to my Heavenly Father without distracting anyone else. As I was pacing, I prayed for the people in my life to have boldness and courage when living a life like Christ and for my own strengths and weaknesses (praying thankfulness for my weaknesses because it makes me that much stronger in Christ) Paul talks about this same thing in 2 Corinthians 12:7-10. All of a sudden God laid it on my heart to pray for the things of His heart, not mine. So I asked the Spirit of align my thoughts and prayers with that of Christ, that I may seek His plans and goals for my life. I also prayed for clarity when speaking and praying aloud to God, not to stumble over my words so that I may communicate clearly with God. I also asked the Spirit to reveal to me my prayer language (which is a special language given to each believer who has the Spirit as a way of my heart communicating with God in my own individual way). I wanted that special relationship and intimateness with my God, so I asked God to let His spirit come inside and fill me up.
Once we were finished, we gather that the front of the stage to pray over the prayer warriors there and for the city, state and nation, so that the harvest may be plenty. As I was praying with the speaker I felt overwhelmed, like I would not get my words out fast enough. I could envision what I wanted to pray, but the words were not coming out right. I stopped for a minute and thought to myself, why can I not speak clearly? So as I continued to pray in this unintelligible language, it became clear to me that it was my Spirit, my prayer language reaching out to God. Now, for all of you skeptics... a prayer language is very different from speaking in tongues. Tongues in Prophesy is the gift given to few, but everyone who is a believer has their own prayer language. Paul clearly states in 1 Corinthians 14:2 that if a person is praying in tongues, he does not speak to men, but to God... for they are mysteries from the man's spirit. Also in the Book of Acts Paul talks about receiving the Holy Spirit and what happens to a believers when he or she gets baptized with the power of the Holy Spirit. Every single person who TRULY receives the holy Spirit and earnestly seeks to become closer to God has a prayer language. It might be gibberish to others, or have an English accent or whatever, but it is your own unique connection and language with God. SO I pray that you seek out that language and connect with your Father on a whole other level, because let me tell you... it is amazing to be consumed with the power of the Holy Spirit.
Some other helpful verses for prayer:
Jude 1:20
Acts 2:1-5
Mark 14:32-38
Thursday, August 12, 2010
New Beginnings
Today I had an interview at Honda Manufacturers of Alabama for a clerical position. Basically I will be entering data and ensuring that safety procedures are being held and maintained for the work environment. It is a temporary job that God has provided until I move to Fort Benning Georgia for Air Assault School. Also, I would get to work in the same general area as Daddy Baker, which is pretty awesome in and of itself. So that is a little information on the job front as I wait on the Army for a more permanent career.
Last night was Wednesday night service at Church of the Highlands and I work in Switch 56 (5th and 6th grade hooligans... er... children). Now sometimes it is hit or miss with my likeness of children. As long as they are behaving and not screaming 24/7. I am cool with kids. Now if they are being ridiculously annoying, screaming, misbehaving and mean, then we are going to have problems. Last night was perfect. Worship was awesome (Like a Lion and How He Loves are amazing presence of God songs and help with dancing for my Lord) and as I wandered into the presence of God the speaker for the night talked about leadership. Later in the night, I was able to lead a small group of 6th grade girls into the topic of being a servant and leader as we head back into this school year. It was awesome to lead those young girls, because i just read the questions and let them do all the talking. I was absolutely blown away by the knowledge that these young girls had in the ways of God, Satan and the way of the world. These girls are so prepared to go back to their schools and be servant leaders to their friends, their enemies and their peers in general, that it makes my heart leap at the impact that they are going to have for the Kingdom of God.
In the last couple weeks, I have grown closer and closer to God. Today, Madison and I had an amazing prayer and worship session in Riley's room that was followed by a great Bible study. I used to fear praying our loud and worshiping anywhere besides church, but now I cannot get enough of it. God is always on my mind and in my heart. I have even gotten up a couple times at 0500 in order to get to Church of the Highlands by 0600 from an hour of prayer with my fellow church members. I love being in God's presence and just in the know that he is always there guiding me, protecting me and motivating me to keep in His ways and on the path He has laid out for me. I cannot wait to see all He has in store for me and the blessings He will pour out in my life!
Last night was Wednesday night service at Church of the Highlands and I work in Switch 56 (5th and 6th grade hooligans... er... children). Now sometimes it is hit or miss with my likeness of children. As long as they are behaving and not screaming 24/7. I am cool with kids. Now if they are being ridiculously annoying, screaming, misbehaving and mean, then we are going to have problems. Last night was perfect. Worship was awesome (Like a Lion and How He Loves are amazing presence of God songs and help with dancing for my Lord) and as I wandered into the presence of God the speaker for the night talked about leadership. Later in the night, I was able to lead a small group of 6th grade girls into the topic of being a servant and leader as we head back into this school year. It was awesome to lead those young girls, because i just read the questions and let them do all the talking. I was absolutely blown away by the knowledge that these young girls had in the ways of God, Satan and the way of the world. These girls are so prepared to go back to their schools and be servant leaders to their friends, their enemies and their peers in general, that it makes my heart leap at the impact that they are going to have for the Kingdom of God.
In the last couple weeks, I have grown closer and closer to God. Today, Madison and I had an amazing prayer and worship session in Riley's room that was followed by a great Bible study. I used to fear praying our loud and worshiping anywhere besides church, but now I cannot get enough of it. God is always on my mind and in my heart. I have even gotten up a couple times at 0500 in order to get to Church of the Highlands by 0600 from an hour of prayer with my fellow church members. I love being in God's presence and just in the know that he is always there guiding me, protecting me and motivating me to keep in His ways and on the path He has laid out for me. I cannot wait to see all He has in store for me and the blessings He will pour out in my life!
Monday, August 9, 2010
It's Been A While!!
Sorry it's been a while since I have had a spare moment to sit in front of the computer and write my adventures on this blog. But let me tell you, I have some pretty amazing stories, one of which I will shard with you. I had drill this weekend (woo hoo for the weekend warriors!!), so I was busy at Fort McClellan for three days. We shot weapons (M16, 203 and the 249 SAW) and took 5-ton driving tests. This was also the first time I got to bond with my unit since my arrival. Out of all the people in my unit I bonded with six pretty stellar soldiers (Steele, Parker, Wallace, Morgan, Morrow and Hurst). On Saturday night, we were all hanging out in the parking lot having a couple beers and just talking about the days events. Side note, Wallace and I were the best 203 shooters in the whole 208th and 440th... Sgt. Ballard was bragging us up all afternoon :) Anyway, so there we were in the parking lot, having some good laughs when Morrow comes out of nowhere and asks me if he can ask a personal question. Since I get this a lot, I know what he is going to say. Then, instead of asking in a tactful way, Morrow blatantly says, "Are you gay?" After we stop laughing (uncontrollably I might add) I tell him no but he seems to not believe me. The whole rest of the night, he keeps asking me if I am sure that I am not gay. It was hilarious and annoying all at the same time. Why do people not believe me? It is actually ridiculous that stereotypes have made it possible for people to be so brainwashed that they find it hard to believe the truth. I don't know what more I can do in order for people to believe that I am not a homosexual.
The next thing I will add deals with some Fort Benning news that I received over the weekend. MSG Boston called me on Friday evening to discuss a new job opportunity. Instead of being at the Warrior Training Center in the S-1 shop doing paperwork all day, MSG Boston wants me to go to Air Assault School and then once I successfully complete the 10-day course I can stay on as a training NCO. He figured I might enjoy it better actually spending the time training soldiers and being more hands on. I agree. I believe that God has opened up this door for me so that I may be able to witness more to the soldiers and be a light in an otherwise dark world. It renewed my energy for wanting to go to Benning and get involved with the soldiers there.
Now about training for Air Assault School... yes I have to train to go to AAS!!! So I am on a rigorous training schedule that is every day except Sunday, which is my one day of rest. Basically, for graduation from Air Assault I have to run two miles in under 18 minutes in my ACUs and running shoes, complete two ruck marches (six miles in under an hour and a half and 12 miles in under three hours), and not be afraid of heights. So yeah, I will doing lots of running, walking and hanging from the pull up bars to build up my core and upper body strength. Today I started off slow with a 1.5 mile run in 13:43... in Bama heat, in pants... so, needless to say I am serious about this training. Mama and I mapped out a two mile trail so that I would not be doing to much repetitive running (which I hate almost as much as running itself) and for my first ruck march trial on Saturday. I am pretty excited about this opportunity although it is going to take much mind and body conditioning. Prayers are recommended and wanted/needed if you feel so inclined. I shall let you know later this week how the training is going. Deuces!
The next thing I will add deals with some Fort Benning news that I received over the weekend. MSG Boston called me on Friday evening to discuss a new job opportunity. Instead of being at the Warrior Training Center in the S-1 shop doing paperwork all day, MSG Boston wants me to go to Air Assault School and then once I successfully complete the 10-day course I can stay on as a training NCO. He figured I might enjoy it better actually spending the time training soldiers and being more hands on. I agree. I believe that God has opened up this door for me so that I may be able to witness more to the soldiers and be a light in an otherwise dark world. It renewed my energy for wanting to go to Benning and get involved with the soldiers there.
Now about training for Air Assault School... yes I have to train to go to AAS!!! So I am on a rigorous training schedule that is every day except Sunday, which is my one day of rest. Basically, for graduation from Air Assault I have to run two miles in under 18 minutes in my ACUs and running shoes, complete two ruck marches (six miles in under an hour and a half and 12 miles in under three hours), and not be afraid of heights. So yeah, I will doing lots of running, walking and hanging from the pull up bars to build up my core and upper body strength. Today I started off slow with a 1.5 mile run in 13:43... in Bama heat, in pants... so, needless to say I am serious about this training. Mama and I mapped out a two mile trail so that I would not be doing to much repetitive running (which I hate almost as much as running itself) and for my first ruck march trial on Saturday. I am pretty excited about this opportunity although it is going to take much mind and body conditioning. Prayers are recommended and wanted/needed if you feel so inclined. I shall let you know later this week how the training is going. Deuces!
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
Who Said It Was Okay?!
As of late there has been something on my mind... actually I think it is on a lot of people's minds. Trends. Twitter has trending topics (#followedbytrend) and it seems when one or two people start wearing or saying something, within weeks it is a full fledged trend (hand hugs, good games, balls man). I have been constantly seeing little patterns that show up everywhere and as I was ranting this morning, Mama and I got to talking about trends and why they come about. This blog is to inform you of some of the things that are going on in today's world and to ask the question described by my face below: WHY?!
Everywhere I go (which is mainly Wal-Mart, Church of the Highlands and the Starbucks at Trussville) there are girls (and grown women) who wear nothing but running shorts, t-shirts and flip-flops, with their hair in a messy bun. Oh and these are not just any running shorts, they are short, shorts and an overly large shirt. Why? I can understand runners doing it after practice, but anyone, anytime during the day... come on now, this trend is just ridiculous. Who decided that one day they were going to wear shorts and a tee shirt EVERYWHERE?! Mama said this was popular when she was growing up in the 70's and 80's... but why now, again?
From this tangent, Mama dove into the topic of hairstyles and trends in general. The faux hawk (which I rock almost daily) was not a popular trend until very recently. Only one or two guys are known for this unique hairstyle. David Boreanez (Angel) from the television show Buffy the Vampire Slayer, had a stellar faux hawk, as did famous soccer player David Beckham. Nowadays, everyone and their mother (literally) has a faux hawk. But who decided that it was cool rock the faux hawk?
Another thing is the whole vampire thing... I watched Buffy when it was in it's prime (1999-2006). In no way was it cool to be a vampire, but it was cool to slay them. Unless, it was Angel or Spike, all vampires were evil, demons. Vampires were in now way, sparkly and cuddly. They did not have super powers, other than sub-human strength. How come Buffy died out, then less that three years later, the whole world wants to be like the Cullen family and drink Tru-Blood. This is the trend that is the most disturbing...
The same thing can be debated for skinny jeans and most of the crazy fashion of today's world... what ever happened to being original? I guess that is where all the trends come from. Someone decided to be original and other people saw it and created a fashion trend. I saw a quote that sums all of this up on a Mike's Hard lemonade bottle, "If you are going to be original, count on being copied". I guess we have the original people of the world to hold responsible as the reason for having so many trends. This in turn, begs the question, "Is it really that good to be original if all it does is create little armies of copies who will just cling to the next trend a week later?"
Does anyone think about this stuff as well?!
Everywhere I go (which is mainly Wal-Mart, Church of the Highlands and the Starbucks at Trussville) there are girls (and grown women) who wear nothing but running shorts, t-shirts and flip-flops, with their hair in a messy bun. Oh and these are not just any running shorts, they are short, shorts and an overly large shirt. Why? I can understand runners doing it after practice, but anyone, anytime during the day... come on now, this trend is just ridiculous. Who decided that one day they were going to wear shorts and a tee shirt EVERYWHERE?! Mama said this was popular when she was growing up in the 70's and 80's... but why now, again?
From this tangent, Mama dove into the topic of hairstyles and trends in general. The faux hawk (which I rock almost daily) was not a popular trend until very recently. Only one or two guys are known for this unique hairstyle. David Boreanez (Angel) from the television show Buffy the Vampire Slayer, had a stellar faux hawk, as did famous soccer player David Beckham. Nowadays, everyone and their mother (literally) has a faux hawk. But who decided that it was cool rock the faux hawk?
Another thing is the whole vampire thing... I watched Buffy when it was in it's prime (1999-2006). In no way was it cool to be a vampire, but it was cool to slay them. Unless, it was Angel or Spike, all vampires were evil, demons. Vampires were in now way, sparkly and cuddly. They did not have super powers, other than sub-human strength. How come Buffy died out, then less that three years later, the whole world wants to be like the Cullen family and drink Tru-Blood. This is the trend that is the most disturbing...
The same thing can be debated for skinny jeans and most of the crazy fashion of today's world... what ever happened to being original? I guess that is where all the trends come from. Someone decided to be original and other people saw it and created a fashion trend. I saw a quote that sums all of this up on a Mike's Hard lemonade bottle, "If you are going to be original, count on being copied". I guess we have the original people of the world to hold responsible as the reason for having so many trends. This in turn, begs the question, "Is it really that good to be original if all it does is create little armies of copies who will just cling to the next trend a week later?"
Does anyone think about this stuff as well?!
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
The Vine.
As I was reading through my One Year Bible, I noticed that sometimes the Bible can be more history than helpful information regarding spiritual growth (i.e. OT geneologies, letter condolences, etc). So I veered off the path of Chronicles and the benediction of Romans, and ventured toward the Book of John. I decided to read Chapter 15, which deals with the believers and their relationship with the Father, with other believers and with the world. Perhaps this chapter is most famous for Jesus' metaphor for the vine and the branches. From this reading, I had an in-depth conversation with Mama about the Calvinistic views of pre-destination and who does the choosing. I follow Calvin's views that God has a Book of Life and in it He has chosen those who will live and those who will not. The Father saved everyone through the sacrifice of Christ; however, there are some people who still do not believe Jesus is the Messiah. God meant for everyone to be saved, but for those people who have hardened their hearts to the love of Jesus and God; they will not spend eternity in the presence of God. In John 15:16 "You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit—fruit that will last. Then the Father will give you whatever you ask in my name." How blessed am I that He chose me and I answered the calling so that I may bear fruit and do what I was created to do? So blessed!!
Now onto news in the Army sense... Yesterday I called MSG Boston (he is my contact sergeant and the NCO who hired me for the Fort Benning job) and got some information on when I would be going to Fort Benning. MSG Boston tells me that the NGB (National Guard Bureau, who will be paying my salary once I get orders) has put new regulations on how soldiers go about applying for these ADOS-RC jobs. Not to worry, the only set back is that I had to start from the beginning with the application process and he needed approval for the jobs in his budget. But no fear, his budget was in the black and he will get all the jobs he budgeted for. I had all the documents already, if should not take long. Also, the whole thing is done online and all of my paperwork is already uploaded. MSG Boston sent me the link to the website that I was to go to and submit my resume online so it could start the chain for the release to be signed. In the meantime, I just need to wait for the NGB to upload all the jobs so I can apply for that specific job in Fort Benning.
So pretty much, the job is mine and whether it takes two days or two months for me to get there, the job will be waiting for me. And with this new online system, MSG Boston can track where my release papers are and if they are being signed or in wait (he said the two days is too long for a paper to sit on someone's desk). It shouldn't be that much longer and the Lord is faithful. As long as I remain in Him, He will remain in me and whatever I ask of Him will be given to me :)
Now onto news in the Army sense... Yesterday I called MSG Boston (he is my contact sergeant and the NCO who hired me for the Fort Benning job) and got some information on when I would be going to Fort Benning. MSG Boston tells me that the NGB (National Guard Bureau, who will be paying my salary once I get orders) has put new regulations on how soldiers go about applying for these ADOS-RC jobs. Not to worry, the only set back is that I had to start from the beginning with the application process and he needed approval for the jobs in his budget. But no fear, his budget was in the black and he will get all the jobs he budgeted for. I had all the documents already, if should not take long. Also, the whole thing is done online and all of my paperwork is already uploaded. MSG Boston sent me the link to the website that I was to go to and submit my resume online so it could start the chain for the release to be signed. In the meantime, I just need to wait for the NGB to upload all the jobs so I can apply for that specific job in Fort Benning.
So pretty much, the job is mine and whether it takes two days or two months for me to get there, the job will be waiting for me. And with this new online system, MSG Boston can track where my release papers are and if they are being signed or in wait (he said the two days is too long for a paper to sit on someone's desk). It shouldn't be that much longer and the Lord is faithful. As long as I remain in Him, He will remain in me and whatever I ask of Him will be given to me :)
Monday, August 2, 2010
Spiritual. Highs. Hmmm.
This weekend was amazing yet I have my reservations about it. The last night of MOTION was insane... God's presence was definitely in Church of the Highlands and we could all feel it. I came home, on Saturday night, with a renewed energy that could only be from the Spirit of God. However, Sunday morning at church, I felt like something was lacking. I asked God this weekend to reveal himself to me and to show me his glory, much like Moses did in the OT. In Exodus 34:29-35, God came to Moses on the mountain top and spoke to him. When Moses went back down the mountain, the Israelites were afraid to look at him because his face was radiant. It shown with the glory of God from being in his presence. From then on, Moses would put a veil on his face while talking to the people of God because it was less distracting when the glory started to fade. Much like during and after a spiritual high, we tend to be on cloud nine while in the presence of God and then we crash, it can be distracting, not only to us who are sharing the faith, but to those who are hearing the faith as well.
Paul revisits this story about Moses in 2 Corinthians 3:13-17 when he is using the veil as a metaphor for what covers our hearts. I was a little confused on what was trying to be said in the scriptures, so I looked to my MacArthur study notes for a little more guidance. The physical action of Moses veil, described by Paul, is that Moses lacked the confidence and boldness that Paul had because the Old Covenant was shadowy and obscure. Paul then says that the same veil remains, yet it is over the heart. The veil represents unbelief; the Israelites had unbelief because they could not grasp the glory of the Old Covenant. Moses face was too bright to handle for they because they could not understand God. MacArthur states that, "The veil of ignorance obscures the meaning of the Old Covenant to the hardened heart."
Paul and Moses have shed new light on dealing with my spiritual high. I don't need to have a mountain top experience and to see little glimpse of God's glory. Moses was the only one who saw God and the rest of the Israelites hid their faces in fear of God. Yet, Paul states in the New Testament that since we have a new covenant with Jesus, we have everything. We have the confidence and boldness to approach God. Having the New Testament and a new life in Christ is how we are able to interpret and understand the Old Testament. Since our veil is lifted, we can see the glory of God in Christ.
Just living in a daily walk with Christ and in constant prayer with him is how I can remain in His glory always and not experience a crash after a Spiritual High. I believe that it is actually nicer to just live day to day in the glory of God through Christ rather just experience a once a year overly amazing Jesus experience. Although MOTION was awesome and it helped to renew my spirit, staying in daily communion with God is the only way that I can keep God's glory from fading in my life and be able to be the leader God has called me to be.
Paul revisits this story about Moses in 2 Corinthians 3:13-17 when he is using the veil as a metaphor for what covers our hearts. I was a little confused on what was trying to be said in the scriptures, so I looked to my MacArthur study notes for a little more guidance. The physical action of Moses veil, described by Paul, is that Moses lacked the confidence and boldness that Paul had because the Old Covenant was shadowy and obscure. Paul then says that the same veil remains, yet it is over the heart. The veil represents unbelief; the Israelites had unbelief because they could not grasp the glory of the Old Covenant. Moses face was too bright to handle for they because they could not understand God. MacArthur states that, "The veil of ignorance obscures the meaning of the Old Covenant to the hardened heart."
Paul and Moses have shed new light on dealing with my spiritual high. I don't need to have a mountain top experience and to see little glimpse of God's glory. Moses was the only one who saw God and the rest of the Israelites hid their faces in fear of God. Yet, Paul states in the New Testament that since we have a new covenant with Jesus, we have everything. We have the confidence and boldness to approach God. Having the New Testament and a new life in Christ is how we are able to interpret and understand the Old Testament. Since our veil is lifted, we can see the glory of God in Christ.
Just living in a daily walk with Christ and in constant prayer with him is how I can remain in His glory always and not experience a crash after a Spiritual High. I believe that it is actually nicer to just live day to day in the glory of God through Christ rather just experience a once a year overly amazing Jesus experience. Although MOTION was awesome and it helped to renew my spirit, staying in daily communion with God is the only way that I can keep God's glory from fading in my life and be able to be the leader God has called me to be.
Friday, July 30, 2010
Quotes. Lyrics. Stories.
Today I am at a loss for what to Blog about (scary, i know)!! So, I shall list some quotes, lyrics and stories that have happened so far at MOTION 2010... and maybe there just might be a revelation toward the end dealing with what God is trying to set free from my heart into words for the world to hear.
Waffle house at midnight is a great way to end the first night of MOTION. I worked stage security for Pastor John Larson and singer Kari Jobe for the kick-off worship session. It rocked!! Seeing so many young people just worshipping and loving on God was astounding!! After a couple hours of hanging with young people, the conference ended for the night and Riley, Beth, Kate and I headed to the Moody Waffle House to get our grub on (I had not eaten for about 12 hours at this time). Getting out of the car was a bit harder for some than others. Riley about face planted in the parking lot once we arrived, and after laughing at her, Kate did the same thing. It looked like I was herding drunk high schoolers into an (already sketchy) establishment, awesome!! So we enter the restaurant and find the only clean booth in the whole place. We order our food, and people start clearing out. About the time our food comes out, it is just to four of us and some employees. We were being completely goofy from lack of food and being exhausted. Riley almost choked on water when Kate mentioned a pig roast and our waitress was talking about how the place is usually filled with drunk old people dancing to the jukebox in the corner. The night could not have ended better (well, actually we were all missing Madison a ton and wished she could have been there with us)!! So we ventured home to get a little sleep before having to be back at the Highlands for MOTION day 2 at 0900!!
Some notable quotes from Bible study and pastoral influence:
"Holy Spirit, brainwash me and align my thoughts with Yours" - Me
"Faith in motion through leaping not listening" - Pastor Layne
"The able Protector is also the abundant Provider" - MacArthur Study Bible about Psalm 23
What's playing on replay on my iPod:
Hosanna - Hillsong United
Revelation Song - Kari Jobe
Walls Down - Highlands Worship Band
Short blog today, maybe I will write some more this evening... getting more and more excited about the possibility of 20:20 and moving to Fort Benning... busy, busy year lined up!!
Waffle house at midnight is a great way to end the first night of MOTION. I worked stage security for Pastor John Larson and singer Kari Jobe for the kick-off worship session. It rocked!! Seeing so many young people just worshipping and loving on God was astounding!! After a couple hours of hanging with young people, the conference ended for the night and Riley, Beth, Kate and I headed to the Moody Waffle House to get our grub on (I had not eaten for about 12 hours at this time). Getting out of the car was a bit harder for some than others. Riley about face planted in the parking lot once we arrived, and after laughing at her, Kate did the same thing. It looked like I was herding drunk high schoolers into an (already sketchy) establishment, awesome!! So we enter the restaurant and find the only clean booth in the whole place. We order our food, and people start clearing out. About the time our food comes out, it is just to four of us and some employees. We were being completely goofy from lack of food and being exhausted. Riley almost choked on water when Kate mentioned a pig roast and our waitress was talking about how the place is usually filled with drunk old people dancing to the jukebox in the corner. The night could not have ended better (well, actually we were all missing Madison a ton and wished she could have been there with us)!! So we ventured home to get a little sleep before having to be back at the Highlands for MOTION day 2 at 0900!!
Some notable quotes from Bible study and pastoral influence:
"Holy Spirit, brainwash me and align my thoughts with Yours" - Me
"Faith in motion through leaping not listening" - Pastor Layne
"The able Protector is also the abundant Provider" - MacArthur Study Bible about Psalm 23
What's playing on replay on my iPod:
Hosanna - Hillsong United
Revelation Song - Kari Jobe
Walls Down - Highlands Worship Band
Short blog today, maybe I will write some more this evening... getting more and more excited about the possibility of 20:20 and moving to Fort Benning... busy, busy year lined up!!
Thursday, July 29, 2010
Basement. 20:20. Motion. Life.
This week has been crazy busy with the anticipation for Motion Student Conference at Church of the Highlands. Sunday night was CORE (see previous blog about Sundays) and it set the stage for the rest of the week. Let me take you through these last three days and reveal to you what God is revealing in me.
MONDAY: Just like any other day, except I was coming down with a cold. No matter tho, I took a nap during the day so I could muster up my energy for an hour prayer meeting that night for Motion. It worked, I was on fire for God and praying over names, churches and leaders. By the end of the hour (which felt, seriously, like ten minutes), I was exhausted and worn completely out. Madison and I had a good talk on the way home over what was prayed for and the vision of what God will do to the lives of the students who will be coming to Motion. This prayer night is proof that God is working in me and allowing me to grow in Him and to step out of my comfort zone in my Christian walk... words + action = MOTION!
TUESDAY: The Basement. Hmmm, what is to be said about this once a month experience. Matt Pitt, a rather ordinary guy (by the world's standards) started holding worship gatherings in his basement a few years ago. Well word got out and people started coming to grow in the Lord and be unashamed for Christ. The numbers were astounding and the group was quickly growing out of buildings they were using to gather. On Tuesday, The Basement overflowed the auditorium and Switch rooms at Church of the Highlands. However, The Basement provides the seed of the Word of God to be planted... there is no cultivation. During worship at the end, God overflowed my heart with the prayers that the students who came to The Basement would be moved to go back to their churches, families and friends and share the news they have heard. That they would earnestly seek the Lord and not allow The Basement to be a "spiritual high" that they get every month. Prayers were flowing from my heart and my mouth as I stood their surrounded by the next generation, asking God to put these students faith into MOTION!
WEDNESDAY: I spent the day with family and decided to look up 20:20 (a leadership program from Highlands Leadership Institute) as per Madison's suggestion. 20:20 is a ministry internship for working and married adults who was to be equipped with the tools for full time ministry. And, honestly, after Airborne school, this program is very doable for me (PRAYER PLEASE). 20:20 would be an awesome opportunity to grow in the Lord and to take the wisdom gained back out into the Army world. (For more information check it out at COTH 20:20) So as I thought about that, I ventured to the mid-week service at COTH where I help out in Switch 56. Worship was great and I can feel myself breaking out of my little Christian shell more and more. God is moving me and putting my faith and life in MOTION.
MOTION (through dictionary meaning and my plans)
1. the action or process of moving or of changing place or position; movement.
(I moved to Bama to have a closer relationship to God)
2. power of movement, as of a living body.
(Putting my faith into action is allowing me to fulfill my position in the body of Christ)
3. the manner of moving the body in walking; gait.
(my actual walk with God seen by others)
4. a bodily movement or change of posture; gesture.
(a renewing of my spiritual condition)
5. a proposal formally made to a deliberative assembly: to make a motion to adjourn.
(the decision to allow God to change every aspect of my life)
6. an inward prompting or impulse; inclination: He will go only of his own motion.
(The Holy Spirit's influence in me)
7. Music . melodic progression, as the change of a voice part from one pitch to another.
(my way of worship to God)
The word MOTION in all it's definitions has given new meaning to my life, I can only pray that as I work the next three days at the Motion Student Conference, that I can see God working in the lives of these youths and that He can work in my own life as I continue this forward MOTION to follow in the footsteps of Christ.
MONDAY: Just like any other day, except I was coming down with a cold. No matter tho, I took a nap during the day so I could muster up my energy for an hour prayer meeting that night for Motion. It worked, I was on fire for God and praying over names, churches and leaders. By the end of the hour (which felt, seriously, like ten minutes), I was exhausted and worn completely out. Madison and I had a good talk on the way home over what was prayed for and the vision of what God will do to the lives of the students who will be coming to Motion. This prayer night is proof that God is working in me and allowing me to grow in Him and to step out of my comfort zone in my Christian walk... words + action = MOTION!
TUESDAY: The Basement. Hmmm, what is to be said about this once a month experience. Matt Pitt, a rather ordinary guy (by the world's standards) started holding worship gatherings in his basement a few years ago. Well word got out and people started coming to grow in the Lord and be unashamed for Christ. The numbers were astounding and the group was quickly growing out of buildings they were using to gather. On Tuesday, The Basement overflowed the auditorium and Switch rooms at Church of the Highlands. However, The Basement provides the seed of the Word of God to be planted... there is no cultivation. During worship at the end, God overflowed my heart with the prayers that the students who came to The Basement would be moved to go back to their churches, families and friends and share the news they have heard. That they would earnestly seek the Lord and not allow The Basement to be a "spiritual high" that they get every month. Prayers were flowing from my heart and my mouth as I stood their surrounded by the next generation, asking God to put these students faith into MOTION!
WEDNESDAY: I spent the day with family and decided to look up 20:20 (a leadership program from Highlands Leadership Institute) as per Madison's suggestion. 20:20 is a ministry internship for working and married adults who was to be equipped with the tools for full time ministry. And, honestly, after Airborne school, this program is very doable for me (PRAYER PLEASE). 20:20 would be an awesome opportunity to grow in the Lord and to take the wisdom gained back out into the Army world. (For more information check it out at COTH 20:20) So as I thought about that, I ventured to the mid-week service at COTH where I help out in Switch 56. Worship was great and I can feel myself breaking out of my little Christian shell more and more. God is moving me and putting my faith and life in MOTION.
MOTION (through dictionary meaning and my plans)
1. the action or process of moving or of changing place or position; movement.
(I moved to Bama to have a closer relationship to God)
2. power of movement, as of a living body.
(Putting my faith into action is allowing me to fulfill my position in the body of Christ)
3. the manner of moving the body in walking; gait.
(my actual walk with God seen by others)
4. a bodily movement or change of posture; gesture.
(a renewing of my spiritual condition)
5. a proposal formally made to a deliberative assembly: to make a motion to adjourn.
(the decision to allow God to change every aspect of my life)
6. an inward prompting or impulse; inclination: He will go only of his own motion.
(The Holy Spirit's influence in me)
7. Music . melodic progression, as the change of a voice part from one pitch to another.
(my way of worship to God)
The word MOTION in all it's definitions has given new meaning to my life, I can only pray that as I work the next three days at the Motion Student Conference, that I can see God working in the lives of these youths and that He can work in my own life as I continue this forward MOTION to follow in the footsteps of Christ.
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
Peeves. Name for a Pet.
Today's insight will be coming from a few things that can get me riled up enough to yell things at people who cannot hear me. I am talking about pet peeves... those little things (or BIG things) that eat away at a person and almost cause said person to go insane. I feel that the annoyances that I am about to indulge in are things that would frustrate most people. But if these "habits" don't annoy you, then you might be one of the people doing certain things to put a little edge in someone's day. If that is the case, I shall pray hard for you :)
First up is a simple formula I call customer service and a genuine regard to the human way of life. Twice since I have moved to Pell City, AL have I been shirked out of my correct change. Now, I am not talking about pennies of even a quarter. I have been cheated out of $14.00 all based on a person's inattentiveness to detail. The first time I received the wrong change was at a McDonalds but the second time rings more clearly in my mind. I hand someone a $20 bill and a dime for $4.07 worth of groceries (actually it was cough drops and soup for the sickness that has afflicted me as of late). I expect to get back $16.03, right?! It is simple mathematics (so simple the computer does it for you). I know I have a degree in English and math is not always my strong suit, but I do now how to add and subtract (especially when it comes to my money)! The "nice" cashier hands me back $6.07. Excuse me, but how... why... HOW? So I say nicely, "um, I handed you a $20". The girl opens her drawer and sees that I am right. So instead of figuring out how much she really owes me in change, she hands me another $6 and proceeds to help the next customer. So right there I was still missing $4, but I am not one to make a scene, so I grabbed my bag and left. Grrr...
My second pet peeve is drivers. Road, interstate, car, truck... whatever!! I hate drivers!! i might just go off on a random, irate tangent for a minute, so bear with me. You know when you are in town, in the turn lane and you have the GREEN ARROW... however, the car(s) in front of you don't care that there are a MILLION cars behind them waiting to turn, so they take their sweet time. Thus, allowing two cars to make it through the five minute light and the rest of us have to wait. I hate that. Another instance of bad driving is when you are on the freeway and the passing lane is being taken up by "Sunday drivers"... ISN'T THERE A LAW AGAINST GOING TOO SLOW ON THE INTERSTATE??? OBSTRUCTION OF TRAFFIC??? Then somehow, those same drivers like to cut people off on the highway and don't even give a little courteous wave, like, thanks for letting me over, I know I am a moron?!?! I will have to say though, that my number one driver pet peeve (that has actually caused my to attempt to roll down my window and violently yell at these certain people) is when there is a merge sign and these (special, illiterate, moronic, etc) people wait until their lane is completely gone to get over. It's like their God-given right to cut everyone else (who can read) off because they want to get ahead of all the traffic. Then they end up being stopped like the rest of us (just a few cars up). Then once we get out of the construction zone, or traffic jam, these speed racers (who had to be in the front of everyone) ARE THE SAME IDIOTS WHO LOLLY GAG IN THE FREAKING PASSING LANE!!!!! I just do not understand their driving techniques and I guess I never will.
The last thing that I am going to go off on today is that of the higher-ups who don't care. As I sit, day after day, waiting on the Army... I get a little angrier and angrier at the fact that a single sheet of paper that needs two scribbles (signatures) on it takes months to accomplish. All I need is a signature from a superior officer saying that I can be released from Alabama, to go to Georgia and begin my work as a training/admin NCO... I don't understand why they hold back soldiers who want to work or who are needed in these positions. You would think that the Army (or any military organization) would put the well being of the very backbone of their organization (the soldiers) as a top priority for anything. Whatever happened to the motto "a happy employee is a good employee"? I understand that I am owned by the government and I will do as they say regardless... but I still wonder about work ethics and respect since the Army tends to value those ideals along with integrity, loyalty and selfless service.
Anyway, so that is what has been on my mind as of late. Along with being in constant prayer for the youth of the nation and asking God for the strength, courage and boldness as I wait for the LORD to reveal what it is that He wants me to be doing while I wait for the Army. Your prayers would be much appreciated as well...
First up is a simple formula I call customer service and a genuine regard to the human way of life. Twice since I have moved to Pell City, AL have I been shirked out of my correct change. Now, I am not talking about pennies of even a quarter. I have been cheated out of $14.00 all based on a person's inattentiveness to detail. The first time I received the wrong change was at a McDonalds but the second time rings more clearly in my mind. I hand someone a $20 bill and a dime for $4.07 worth of groceries (actually it was cough drops and soup for the sickness that has afflicted me as of late). I expect to get back $16.03, right?! It is simple mathematics (so simple the computer does it for you). I know I have a degree in English and math is not always my strong suit, but I do now how to add and subtract (especially when it comes to my money)! The "nice" cashier hands me back $6.07. Excuse me, but how... why... HOW? So I say nicely, "um, I handed you a $20". The girl opens her drawer and sees that I am right. So instead of figuring out how much she really owes me in change, she hands me another $6 and proceeds to help the next customer. So right there I was still missing $4, but I am not one to make a scene, so I grabbed my bag and left. Grrr...
My second pet peeve is drivers. Road, interstate, car, truck... whatever!! I hate drivers!! i might just go off on a random, irate tangent for a minute, so bear with me. You know when you are in town, in the turn lane and you have the GREEN ARROW... however, the car(s) in front of you don't care that there are a MILLION cars behind them waiting to turn, so they take their sweet time. Thus, allowing two cars to make it through the five minute light and the rest of us have to wait. I hate that. Another instance of bad driving is when you are on the freeway and the passing lane is being taken up by "Sunday drivers"... ISN'T THERE A LAW AGAINST GOING TOO SLOW ON THE INTERSTATE??? OBSTRUCTION OF TRAFFIC??? Then somehow, those same drivers like to cut people off on the highway and don't even give a little courteous wave, like, thanks for letting me over, I know I am a moron?!?! I will have to say though, that my number one driver pet peeve (that has actually caused my to attempt to roll down my window and violently yell at these certain people) is when there is a merge sign and these (special, illiterate, moronic, etc) people wait until their lane is completely gone to get over. It's like their God-given right to cut everyone else (who can read) off because they want to get ahead of all the traffic. Then they end up being stopped like the rest of us (just a few cars up). Then once we get out of the construction zone, or traffic jam, these speed racers (who had to be in the front of everyone) ARE THE SAME IDIOTS WHO LOLLY GAG IN THE FREAKING PASSING LANE!!!!! I just do not understand their driving techniques and I guess I never will.
The last thing that I am going to go off on today is that of the higher-ups who don't care. As I sit, day after day, waiting on the Army... I get a little angrier and angrier at the fact that a single sheet of paper that needs two scribbles (signatures) on it takes months to accomplish. All I need is a signature from a superior officer saying that I can be released from Alabama, to go to Georgia and begin my work as a training/admin NCO... I don't understand why they hold back soldiers who want to work or who are needed in these positions. You would think that the Army (or any military organization) would put the well being of the very backbone of their organization (the soldiers) as a top priority for anything. Whatever happened to the motto "a happy employee is a good employee"? I understand that I am owned by the government and I will do as they say regardless... but I still wonder about work ethics and respect since the Army tends to value those ideals along with integrity, loyalty and selfless service.
Anyway, so that is what has been on my mind as of late. Along with being in constant prayer for the youth of the nation and asking God for the strength, courage and boldness as I wait for the LORD to reveal what it is that He wants me to be doing while I wait for the Army. Your prayers would be much appreciated as well...
Monday, July 26, 2010
Sundays. The Best Days.
Sundays are by far my favorite day of the week. What is meant to be a day of rest is hardly that at all. Sundays are my busiest day of the week, and I would not have it any other way :)
First off, the day starts with a 0825 deadline to be in the Pilot (this is daddy's rule, if you're not there, you will have to find another way to church). Then we start the 35 minute venture to Church of the Highlands (check. it. out.). Now church does not start until 0930, but we have to get there early for good seats because the place gets packed out and at times there have been 13 of us attending/sitting together (God is good)!! Once there, we stop off a the cafe (where they brew Starbucks coffee!!!) and my drink of choice on Sunday morning is a White Chocolate Mocha. Once we are all caffeinated up, we head into the auditorium to take our seats and people watch. There is nothing I like more than seeing the interactions of people and how different people work. I also from time to time (along with the rest of the fam) am keeping an eye out for my future husband. There are beautiful, Godly men at the Highlands and I know that God has one of them in store for me. About five minutes prior to church starting, a countdown clock appears on the two giant screens one either side of the stage letting us know to take our seats because worship is about to start.
Worship is probably my favorite part of a Sunday (if I HAD to rank the events of the day). Pastor John leads worship and I love watching his facial expressions. This is a man who truly loves God. He knows how to take a normal worship song and make it feel like it is just us and God. I can feel the presence of God during worship and it makes me feel safe. There are other worship singers on stage and there love for God is evident. It's not like a concert or a show, it is true, true worship, in the way God intended it and I am thankful to experience that heart of worship every Sunday. There is rarely a time when I am not overcome with emotion from the Spirit of the LORD while worshipping Him.
Once worship ends, Pastor Chris comes to the stage and greets us. I don't even know how I can best describe Pastor Chris, but when he speaks, he has a way of speaking right to me. I know that it is the work of the Holy Spirit, speaking through him to my heart. Pastor Chris is funny, serious, God-fearing, wise, kind-hearted, sincere and an all around amazing guy. He is passionate about his calling to be a pastor (an equipper of ministers) and he is not afraid to tell you how it is. I feel unimaginably blessed whenever I get the chance to hear him speak. I am thankful that God has led me to church where I can experience Him and where i am surrounded by true followers of Christ.
When church is over, we sprint (well, not actually running, but a brisk walk) back to the car so that we do not get stuck in traffic on our way home (as there are literally hundreds of cars in the parking lots) for lunch and a bit of rest before frisbee at 1400.
Now, I played ultimate frisbee in college and I have missed playing since I am no longer enrolled at Whitworth University. When I saw that there was a frisbee small group, I was all about joining. I have only missed a couple Sundays because of either drill or because it was Daniel's last Sunday here before he left for Kuwait (ugh, 6 months without him). I love my group of frisbee brothers and (a few) sisters. Riley, Madison and Cory are regulars with me and Sarah came for the first time and might become a regular (actually, she BETTER become a regular). The one thing that I like about this group of frisbee players that differs from Whitworth is the values, morals and sportsmanship. We are not playing for titles or championships... we are just out there to have fun in the name of Jesus. My favorite peeps to see every week are Michael Hodges, Little Jonathan, Buxton, Dillian and Dylan. Once I actually get to Fort Benning, I am really going to miss my frisbee group and the amazing times we have had!!
Once frisbee is done, we head home for a quick shower (not even kidding, like 5 minutes), a bite to eat, and then Riley, Madison and I head back to Church of the Highlands for CORE. We get to worship again (YES!!) and then head to the Switch 56 room for an hour of intercessory prayer with God. I. Love. CORE!! This is where God is helping me to get out of my comfort zone and be fully enraptured with Him. CORE has allowed me to grow closer to God and closer to my new family down here. The love of God is with us in that room and it is awesome to see so many youths on fire for Christ. I wish you all could experience CORE and the powerful prayers that are spoken in that room over this generation. It is a marvelous thing to be a part of.
Once CORE is over, we head home to stay... so much traveling back and forth, but SOOOO well worth it. We are on such a God high when we get home that it is hard to think about anything else. Being surrounded in the presence of God is exhausting and exhilarating all at the same time. I am saddened that Sunday comes only once a week, but am honored that it comes at all. Wednesday night I spend with the youth and I would not have it any other way. God is doing a great work in my life and I cannot wait to take that energy with me to Fort Benning and begin my work on furthering the Kingdom of God there as well!!
First off, the day starts with a 0825 deadline to be in the Pilot (this is daddy's rule, if you're not there, you will have to find another way to church). Then we start the 35 minute venture to Church of the Highlands (check. it. out.). Now church does not start until 0930, but we have to get there early for good seats because the place gets packed out and at times there have been 13 of us attending/sitting together (God is good)!! Once there, we stop off a the cafe (where they brew Starbucks coffee!!!) and my drink of choice on Sunday morning is a White Chocolate Mocha. Once we are all caffeinated up, we head into the auditorium to take our seats and people watch. There is nothing I like more than seeing the interactions of people and how different people work. I also from time to time (along with the rest of the fam) am keeping an eye out for my future husband. There are beautiful, Godly men at the Highlands and I know that God has one of them in store for me. About five minutes prior to church starting, a countdown clock appears on the two giant screens one either side of the stage letting us know to take our seats because worship is about to start.
Worship is probably my favorite part of a Sunday (if I HAD to rank the events of the day). Pastor John leads worship and I love watching his facial expressions. This is a man who truly loves God. He knows how to take a normal worship song and make it feel like it is just us and God. I can feel the presence of God during worship and it makes me feel safe. There are other worship singers on stage and there love for God is evident. It's not like a concert or a show, it is true, true worship, in the way God intended it and I am thankful to experience that heart of worship every Sunday. There is rarely a time when I am not overcome with emotion from the Spirit of the LORD while worshipping Him.
Once worship ends, Pastor Chris comes to the stage and greets us. I don't even know how I can best describe Pastor Chris, but when he speaks, he has a way of speaking right to me. I know that it is the work of the Holy Spirit, speaking through him to my heart. Pastor Chris is funny, serious, God-fearing, wise, kind-hearted, sincere and an all around amazing guy. He is passionate about his calling to be a pastor (an equipper of ministers) and he is not afraid to tell you how it is. I feel unimaginably blessed whenever I get the chance to hear him speak. I am thankful that God has led me to church where I can experience Him and where i am surrounded by true followers of Christ.
When church is over, we sprint (well, not actually running, but a brisk walk) back to the car so that we do not get stuck in traffic on our way home (as there are literally hundreds of cars in the parking lots) for lunch and a bit of rest before frisbee at 1400.
Now, I played ultimate frisbee in college and I have missed playing since I am no longer enrolled at Whitworth University. When I saw that there was a frisbee small group, I was all about joining. I have only missed a couple Sundays because of either drill or because it was Daniel's last Sunday here before he left for Kuwait (ugh, 6 months without him). I love my group of frisbee brothers and (a few) sisters. Riley, Madison and Cory are regulars with me and Sarah came for the first time and might become a regular (actually, she BETTER become a regular). The one thing that I like about this group of frisbee players that differs from Whitworth is the values, morals and sportsmanship. We are not playing for titles or championships... we are just out there to have fun in the name of Jesus. My favorite peeps to see every week are Michael Hodges, Little Jonathan, Buxton, Dillian and Dylan. Once I actually get to Fort Benning, I am really going to miss my frisbee group and the amazing times we have had!!
Once frisbee is done, we head home for a quick shower (not even kidding, like 5 minutes), a bite to eat, and then Riley, Madison and I head back to Church of the Highlands for CORE. We get to worship again (YES!!) and then head to the Switch 56 room for an hour of intercessory prayer with God. I. Love. CORE!! This is where God is helping me to get out of my comfort zone and be fully enraptured with Him. CORE has allowed me to grow closer to God and closer to my new family down here. The love of God is with us in that room and it is awesome to see so many youths on fire for Christ. I wish you all could experience CORE and the powerful prayers that are spoken in that room over this generation. It is a marvelous thing to be a part of.
Once CORE is over, we head home to stay... so much traveling back and forth, but SOOOO well worth it. We are on such a God high when we get home that it is hard to think about anything else. Being surrounded in the presence of God is exhausting and exhilarating all at the same time. I am saddened that Sunday comes only once a week, but am honored that it comes at all. Wednesday night I spend with the youth and I would not have it any other way. God is doing a great work in my life and I cannot wait to take that energy with me to Fort Benning and begin my work on furthering the Kingdom of God there as well!!
Saturday, July 24, 2010
Pell City Adventures
So last night, the fam (Mama, Daddy, Riley, Madison, Cory) and I ventured into the wondrous City of Pell for some karaoke. There was a little po-dunk (what's not around here, right?!) sports grill and pub, called JC's about seven minutes from our house that has karaoke on Friday nights and minors can be there until about 2300 (which is when the kitchen closed). As we walk in, our lungs were attacked by the thickest cloud of cigarette smoke ever imaginable (ok, that might be a bit hyperbolic, but still, it was gross). The place was packed, it wasn't that big to begin with, but now it felt like a studio apartment full of chain smoking, judgmental rednecks (wait a minute, it might have been). We found five chairs up toward the front, so we could be close to the karaoke, since after all, that was the main reason we went to this bar/grill in the first place. We sat through the first couple singers, who were actually quite good; so Madison and I grab a song book and start picking songs we would like to sing. Cory and Daddy were even hoping to sing a Rush song or two. Then the fun started...
A couple drunk (like way beyond drunk and c'mon, it's only about 2145!!) guys come over to Madison and I and say, "Uh, these chairs were reserved". Like any sober person in a bar, I just looked away. This guy proceeds to grab my sweatshirt and pick me up off the chair. I grabbed his hand, pushed it way and got off the chair on my own. His friend, who was about 65 years old declined to take our chairs at first, but the other Delta Bravo shooed Madison and I out of our chairs so they could sit down and watch some lady sing her song. I moved over by Cory (and I was irate) and I watched the older drunk guy try to tell Madison he was sorry for taking our chairs, but the other guy was just being rude and obnoxious about the whole situation. Then as the older guy grabbed Madison's arm, Daddy stepped in and said something along the lines of "touch her again and see what happens". At that, we made the executive decision to leave this dive and head out. We load back into the pilot where Daddy offers to buy us all Taco Bell so that the night is not a complete waste. Just when we think the night is over, the second half begins...
Instead of Taco Bell, we decide to make a Sonic stop, because most of us wanted ice cream and it was closer. Well, let me tell you about the Sonic in Pell City for all of you Spokane people. It's like the K-Mart parking lot on a Friday night, right?! Okay, so now that you are up to speed on the demographic of the people we ran into at Sonic, I will tell you about their wardrobe. One guy was wearing a hubcap for a necklace (like Flava Flav wears a clock) but this guy was whiter than white and a little overweight. Then there was another "winner" smoking and wearing nothing but purple basketball shorts... AWESOME!! They were all congregating around a red pick-up (very redneck, I know). We continue through the parking lot, park and get out to go order our food. Daddy orders first, then Madison, Riley, I order and Cory was last. This boy (meaning Cory) orders a root beer float and water... but this is how he orders it, "I would like a large root beer float and a water, because it's free". This then started a confusion conversation between Cory and the Sonic worker about what is free and what is not. It was hilarious.
So our night out was eventually epic, even if it wasn't in the way we wanted it to be. A couple things I learned from last night, I can take on drunk people (no matter their size), Sonic Blasts are way better without whip cream and I miss Wednesday nights at Fizzies (Pell City needs a high class bar).
A couple drunk (like way beyond drunk and c'mon, it's only about 2145!!) guys come over to Madison and I and say, "Uh, these chairs were reserved". Like any sober person in a bar, I just looked away. This guy proceeds to grab my sweatshirt and pick me up off the chair. I grabbed his hand, pushed it way and got off the chair on my own. His friend, who was about 65 years old declined to take our chairs at first, but the other Delta Bravo shooed Madison and I out of our chairs so they could sit down and watch some lady sing her song. I moved over by Cory (and I was irate) and I watched the older drunk guy try to tell Madison he was sorry for taking our chairs, but the other guy was just being rude and obnoxious about the whole situation. Then as the older guy grabbed Madison's arm, Daddy stepped in and said something along the lines of "touch her again and see what happens". At that, we made the executive decision to leave this dive and head out. We load back into the pilot where Daddy offers to buy us all Taco Bell so that the night is not a complete waste. Just when we think the night is over, the second half begins...
Instead of Taco Bell, we decide to make a Sonic stop, because most of us wanted ice cream and it was closer. Well, let me tell you about the Sonic in Pell City for all of you Spokane people. It's like the K-Mart parking lot on a Friday night, right?! Okay, so now that you are up to speed on the demographic of the people we ran into at Sonic, I will tell you about their wardrobe. One guy was wearing a hubcap for a necklace (like Flava Flav wears a clock) but this guy was whiter than white and a little overweight. Then there was another "winner" smoking and wearing nothing but purple basketball shorts... AWESOME!! They were all congregating around a red pick-up (very redneck, I know). We continue through the parking lot, park and get out to go order our food. Daddy orders first, then Madison, Riley, I order and Cory was last. This boy (meaning Cory) orders a root beer float and water... but this is how he orders it, "I would like a large root beer float and a water, because it's free". This then started a confusion conversation between Cory and the Sonic worker about what is free and what is not. It was hilarious.
So our night out was eventually epic, even if it wasn't in the way we wanted it to be. A couple things I learned from last night, I can take on drunk people (no matter their size), Sonic Blasts are way better without whip cream and I miss Wednesday nights at Fizzies (Pell City needs a high class bar).
Friday, July 23, 2010
A New Dawn. A New Day.
One year ago yesterday, I set out on a great adventure. Well, it's turned out to be a great adventure, I was scared out of my mind when it was happening. A year ago, I stepped off a plane into Columbia, South Carolina... headed to Fort Jackson with numerous soon-to-be soldiers like myself. We were tired, intimidated and a little scared (whether we wanted to admit it or not). We were huddled in the airport for what seemed like hours and hours, we left at around midnight and made it to Fort Jackson at about 0030 in the morning!! The drill sergeants that met us as we filed (rather quickly) off the buses said that since all of Reception would be up at 0400 for chow, we might as well just say up and kick this thing of right (well those are my own words, there was more yelling and more swearing in the real version, after all, this was basic training)! The next two weeks (yup, 14 days) at Reception were a living hell... no really, if Satan had come to earth, his United States HQ was the Reception Battalion at Fort Jackson!! I met a few cool people (original battle buddies) but mostly a ton of loud, rule bending, immature hooligans who did not seem to care about anyone but themselves. I kept thinking, is this the real Army? Is there going to be a better filtering system than childhood injuries and felonies? I kept hoping for the better and as I was moved with 120 other soldiers to Bravo Co 3-13 for my actual basic training, I experienced it.
As I started my journey through basic combat training in 4th Platoon (Hell Hounds!!!) I began to sort out those who I wanted to share my experience with and those who I wanted to stay away from. My bunk buddy Huffman and I were always going to be together, as was true for Davis and Steele. There were a couple people from my platoon that I knew I would never get along with... Baker and Shibusawa are just a coupl names that stick out now. As the weeks went by, my focus shifted and I began to rely more on God and surround myself with those individuals who did the same. It wasn't until BRM (basic rifle marksmanship) until I really saw who God had planned to come into my life. I was partnered with Baker for coaching while we zeroed our weapons for qualification. We both had a handle on how to make adjustments to the front sight post and rear windage knob in order to accurately shoot our targets from 25 meters. I went first and zeroed my weapon with relative ease, plus Baker was a pretty good coach when it came to aiming, keeping steady position, trigger squeeze and breathing. We switched places and the fun began. I coached her on the same four fundamentals and she was doing well with those, however, Baker was not getting the results that she should have been. Her weapon was double firing and jamming quite frequently. After she had a minor emotional breakdown, I called 1SG Broadwater over to observe her firing. He concluded that it was not Baker's fault, the weapon she was issued was not working properly. After issuing her a new weapon, Baker zeroed in about 10 minutes and the world was set right again and thus started our friendship.
Baker and I came to find out we had a lot in common, we had the same values and beliefs, the same love of football (although hers goes to a scary place sometimes), and we had the same MOS (42A which meant we got to stay together after basic training was over and go through AIT together). So as the course of basic played out fully, Baker became student 1SG and I was student assistant 1SG, we went everywhere and did everything together. When it came time to go to AIT, DS Matekovic informed the soldiers who were going to go to Airborne school that they were not going to AIT school right away, they were going to jump school. This presented a problem, for I was not Airborne... Baker was. As they separated us to go to our different AIT locations, Baker and I thought about what to do. We had envisioned being in the same platoon and going through class together, and this new bump in the road felt like the Rocky Mountains. After a few stressful text messages, I went over, grabbed Baker's bags and brought them to mine and told her she was going to AIT with me. Well, it turned out for the best since Airborne school is attended after AIT and Baker was in the right to go along with me.
After eight STRESSFUL weeks at AIT, Baker and I became closer than friends, almost like sisters. I formed a close friendship with her sister Riley and Mama (Wendy). AIT was stressful, not only because of the physical demands, but the soldiers there were almost worst than basic. I was in a room with 6 other females (Baker, Jackson, Colby, Guerrero, Baez and Salgado) and I got along with two of them. Baker and I were tested spiritually as well. If we had not had the encouragement of the Baker family and the Word of God, I would not have made it through and I know that Baker feels the same way. Even though that was one of the roughest times of my life, I would not give it up for the world. Baker and I now have a friendship that was written before each of us were even thought of. Just like Jonathan and David, our souls were brought together for the sole purpose of furthering the Kingdom of God. I feel truly blessed to have her and her family in my life.
Madison Jane Baker, you are one of the greatest friends I could have ever asked for and I didn't even ask. God placed you in my life and I thank Him every day for that fact. You have half my heart. I love you battle buddy!
1 Samuel 18:1-3
After David had finished talking with Saul, Jonathan became one in spirit with David, and he loved him as himself. From that day Saul kept David with him and did not let him return to his father's house. And Jonathan made a covenant with David because he loved him as himself.
As I started my journey through basic combat training in 4th Platoon (Hell Hounds!!!) I began to sort out those who I wanted to share my experience with and those who I wanted to stay away from. My bunk buddy Huffman and I were always going to be together, as was true for Davis and Steele. There were a couple people from my platoon that I knew I would never get along with... Baker and Shibusawa are just a coupl names that stick out now. As the weeks went by, my focus shifted and I began to rely more on God and surround myself with those individuals who did the same. It wasn't until BRM (basic rifle marksmanship) until I really saw who God had planned to come into my life. I was partnered with Baker for coaching while we zeroed our weapons for qualification. We both had a handle on how to make adjustments to the front sight post and rear windage knob in order to accurately shoot our targets from 25 meters. I went first and zeroed my weapon with relative ease, plus Baker was a pretty good coach when it came to aiming, keeping steady position, trigger squeeze and breathing. We switched places and the fun began. I coached her on the same four fundamentals and she was doing well with those, however, Baker was not getting the results that she should have been. Her weapon was double firing and jamming quite frequently. After she had a minor emotional breakdown, I called 1SG Broadwater over to observe her firing. He concluded that it was not Baker's fault, the weapon she was issued was not working properly. After issuing her a new weapon, Baker zeroed in about 10 minutes and the world was set right again and thus started our friendship.
Baker and I came to find out we had a lot in common, we had the same values and beliefs, the same love of football (although hers goes to a scary place sometimes), and we had the same MOS (42A which meant we got to stay together after basic training was over and go through AIT together). So as the course of basic played out fully, Baker became student 1SG and I was student assistant 1SG, we went everywhere and did everything together. When it came time to go to AIT, DS Matekovic informed the soldiers who were going to go to Airborne school that they were not going to AIT school right away, they were going to jump school. This presented a problem, for I was not Airborne... Baker was. As they separated us to go to our different AIT locations, Baker and I thought about what to do. We had envisioned being in the same platoon and going through class together, and this new bump in the road felt like the Rocky Mountains. After a few stressful text messages, I went over, grabbed Baker's bags and brought them to mine and told her she was going to AIT with me. Well, it turned out for the best since Airborne school is attended after AIT and Baker was in the right to go along with me.
After eight STRESSFUL weeks at AIT, Baker and I became closer than friends, almost like sisters. I formed a close friendship with her sister Riley and Mama (Wendy). AIT was stressful, not only because of the physical demands, but the soldiers there were almost worst than basic. I was in a room with 6 other females (Baker, Jackson, Colby, Guerrero, Baez and Salgado) and I got along with two of them. Baker and I were tested spiritually as well. If we had not had the encouragement of the Baker family and the Word of God, I would not have made it through and I know that Baker feels the same way. Even though that was one of the roughest times of my life, I would not give it up for the world. Baker and I now have a friendship that was written before each of us were even thought of. Just like Jonathan and David, our souls were brought together for the sole purpose of furthering the Kingdom of God. I feel truly blessed to have her and her family in my life.
Madison Jane Baker, you are one of the greatest friends I could have ever asked for and I didn't even ask. God placed you in my life and I thank Him every day for that fact. You have half my heart. I love you battle buddy!
1 Samuel 18:1-3
After David had finished talking with Saul, Jonathan became one in spirit with David, and he loved him as himself. From that day Saul kept David with him and did not let him return to his father's house. And Jonathan made a covenant with David because he loved him as himself.
Thursday, July 22, 2010
The. First. Post. Ever.
So today I decided that I should start doing something with my days since I am waiting for a TAG Release and orders to go to Fort Benning and be the Admin/Training NCO for the Warrior Training Center. This is the opportunity of a lifetime. I get to go Airborne and help soldiers-in-training who will be placed in combat situations one day. I cannot wait to be part of this important training experience. With that said, I have been waiting patiently (for the Army and on the Lord's timing) in Pell City, AL with the Baker family. God has shown my new things in my life since moving down south from Spokane, WA. He has shown me love, loyalty and how to trust Him for everything in my life. In fact, in Matthew 6:25-34 Jesus sums up one part of what God has been revealing to me everyday:
25"Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes?
26Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?
27Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life[a]?
28"And why do you worry about clothes? See how the lilies of the field grow. They do not labor or spin.
29Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these.
30If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith?
31So do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?'
32For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them.
33But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.
34Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.
Any questions? Feel free to comment and we can discuss this further...
25"Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes?
26Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?
27Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life[a]?
28"And why do you worry about clothes? See how the lilies of the field grow. They do not labor or spin.
29Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these.
30If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith?
31So do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?'
32For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them.
33But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.
34Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.
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