tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-61881503144605337342024-03-13T05:25:08.959-07:00k.e.g. on tap: life, quotes, and random musingsAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16606108882562119681noreply@blogger.comBlogger34125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6188150314460533734.post-23376855767154675382017-09-13T19:46:00.001-07:002017-09-13T19:47:28.826-07:00Step up..even if you fail <span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Unfortunately tragedy has befallen many parts of the world. Climate change is causing extensive damage to many parts of the world. Some places in the United States are being pounded by overwhelming hurricanes. Other areas are experiencing horrific wildfires. Still other parts of the world are facing earthquakes, droughts, famine, and flooding. People's homes have been destroyed. Many families and individuals have lost everything they own. It seems reasonable that citizens could look to their government for support and encouragement in the midst of these tragedies. Yet, numerous elected officials in the United States are balking at their responsibility to care for the people, all people, in this country. It seems that providing assistance to those affected by these tragic circumstances isn't worth their while. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">If the weather catastrophes weren't enough, hate, bigotry, and racism are running rampant all across the United States. Many of us would like to think, "That doesn't apply to me. I'm a good person. I don't judge people based on (you fill in the blank here)." But if we are really honest with ourselves, we all have some biases and act upon them, whether we intend to or not. The problem (at least one of them) as I see it is that we as a society have forgotten one major idea--WE ARE ALL HUMAN. This is not an us versus them scenario. Every human breathes air. Drinks water. Eats food. Engages with the world around them. Yet somehow, great swaths of the country seem to have devolved into this absurd thinking that they are superior. It's simply not true, and it never will be. No one person will ever be better than another simply because they exist. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">There are countless examples of this hate, bigotry, and intolerance in recent years. Just some examples include the extrajudicial slayings of Eric Garner, Michael Brown, Filando Castille, and Freddie Gray; the death of Heather Heyer at the counter-protest in Charlottesville; hate crimes against minority religious groups including bombings, graffiti, and shootings; the murder of 9 innocent people at a historically black church in Charleston; the vigilante shootings of undocumented immigrants in Arizona; and the list just goes on and on and on. Only 2 days ago, a story broke about an 8 year old boy in New Hampshire who survived a lynching attempt because he happened to be biracial. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I truly have no sufficient words to describe my absolute abhorrence and grief surrounding these heart-rending events. I think of the ways hate has impacted the lives of my husband and I, close friends, and many others who are dear to me. I am incredibly fearful of what my future children will face in their lives because they happen to be biracial. There is a verse in the Bible that comes to mind when I think of the many wonderful people affected by the obscene displays of hate, intolerance, and bigotry. In Psalm 139:14, it says, "<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;">I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. </span></span><span class="indent-1" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"><span class="indent-1-breaks" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 0.42em; line-height: 0;"> </span><span class="text Ps-139-14" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; position: relative;">Wonderful are your works; </span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">that I know very well." Each individual who must face these acts of hate, discrimination, and intolerance are "fearfully and wonderfully made." They too were created in the Divine Image. They are beloved children of God just like you and me. The Bible tells us many times over to "love our neighbors as ourselves." I can't help but think that was done on purpose. We humans can be rather dense, and clearly needed frequent reminders to love those around us--all of the people around us, not just the ones we like or agree with--but EVERY SINGLE PERSON. </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">As a person of faith, I believe in the power of prayer. Yet, I think we have too long rested on our laurels telling ourselves that we are allies to whatever group because we pray for them. Prayer is good, but it's not enough. It's never going to be enough. Those of us who are disheartened by these despicable acts need to take a stand. We need to step up our game. We need to come together to be a force for change, a force for good, a force for love. </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">So today, I am stepping up. I pledge to do more. I know that I will falter and fail, but I will get up again. I will continue stepping up to be a force for good in a world full of pain. What will you do today? </span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16606108882562119681noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6188150314460533734.post-87507254525071376832013-01-29T07:14:00.000-08:002013-01-29T07:14:44.502-08:00God's not going to do it on his/her own There is a homeless gentleman named Sean who I see quite frequently when I go downtown. He usually is somewhere on the Magnificent Mile between the Walgreens and Water Tower Place. I first met Sean with my dear friend, Laura, back in June. Whenever I see Sean, I try to stop by and say hello. I don't always have the ability to do more than that. <br />
A few weeks ago I stopped to say hello to Sean as I do, things were different with him. He seemed beaten down by his life circumstances. His friendly, jovial disposition was gone. What he said that night has stuck with me and really caused me to think about what we are called to do in this life and who we are to be.<br />
Sean told me that he was mad at God. That despite all the prayers he has prayed and all the prayers others have prayed with him and on his behalf, he is still out on the streets. He went on to say that God is not going to do all the work on his/her own of getting him off the streets. God calls upon people to make it happen and carry out his/her work in the world. We are to be God's hands and feet in the world--the ones who do the physical action of trying to make a difference (and not just with homelessness but with all sorts of issues in this world). We are to be co-partners with God to carry out the good works as expressions of our faith.<br />
In the time since Sean shared his hurt and anger with me, I came to realize that we can't rest on feeling good that we said a prayer for those experiencing homelessness, giving money or food occasionally. These are all good actions, but much more is being asked of us. We are being asked to get down and do the messy work of our faith. To reach out to those whom society has cast aside as not being worthy of our time or attention. Most importantly, we are to be co-partners with God and listen for how we can best love our neighbors because God isn't going to do it on his/her own. We have to help. Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16606108882562119681noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6188150314460533734.post-43156288875042095432012-11-12T21:04:00.001-08:002012-11-12T21:04:41.274-08:00Nudged by God into action<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I am in awe of God's power to move us into action. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Tonight I had a sense of God's powerful "nudging"--a push into action. It happened this evening while I was walking home from class. Normally I have friends who drive me home, and who, once again, graciously offered to do so tonight. However, I felt a desire to walk. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">About half way home, I encountered a gentleman named Lawrence who was asking for money. I have seen Lawrence in the neighborhood before. He's a friendly man. Tonight, he asked me if I could give him just $2 to catch the bus to the homeless shelter for the night. It was the only way he would have to be warm this evening. I had no money on me and told him regretfully so. At that moment, I look down to see Lawrence's hands, callused and cracked from long exposure to the wind and cold of the day. In that moment, I was moved by God's "nudging" into action. I didn't stop to think. I didn't question my actions. I simply took off my gloves and handed them over. His genuine look of gratitude was enough thanks for me. I looked back after I crossed the street to see Lawrence with gloves on his hands and a smile on his face. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I thank God who works in wonderful and mysterious ways for prodding me into service at that moment. I was struck by the immediacy with which I felt this sense to do something. It was never about me. It was about being called by God to serve a beloved child in need--my mere presence and response to God's call met one man's need on this November evening. We have no idea what difference our actions, large or small, could make in the lives of others. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Yet, I walked away from this encounter with Lawrence feeling as though there is more that could be done. <b>I now leave it with you all, in what ways can we serve those in need both monetarily but also, and perhaps more importantly, how can we go beyond that?</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Leaving behind all the questions we may have within ourselves and that society as a whole prompts us to ask about those experiencing homelessness, let us remember this: </span><br />
<i><b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">this man is a human being, a beloved child of God, created in the image of our Creator just as y</span></b></i><i><b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">ou and I have been. He, under no circumstances, deserves to be out on the streets on a mid-November night with temperatures below freezing. He too deserves warmth, shelter, and place to rest his head. As do all people in this world struggling in the face of poverty and homelessness. Let us pray that they find shelter and that we may be agents of change in this world to bring this about. </span></b></i><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">As Jesus said in Matthew, 25:34-46, </span><span class="text Matt-25-34" id="en-CEB-24036" style="font-family: 'Charis SIL', charis, Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><sup class="versenum" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;">34 </sup><span class="woj">“Then the king will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who will receive good things from my Father. Inherit the kingdom that was prepared for you before the world began.</span></span><span class="text Matt-25-35" id="en-CEB-24037" style="font-family: 'Charis SIL', charis, Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><sup class="versenum" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;">35 </sup><span class="woj">I was hungry and you gave me food to eat. I was thirsty and you gave me a drink. I was a stranger and you welcomed me.</span></span><span class="text Matt-25-36" id="en-CEB-24038" style="font-family: 'Charis SIL', charis, Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><sup class="versenum" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;">36 </sup><span class="woj">I was naked and you gave me clothes to wear. I was sick and you took care of me. I was in prison and you visited me.’</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span class="text Matt-25-37" id="en-CEB-24039"><sup class="versenum" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;">37 </sup><span class="woj">“Then those who are righteous will reply to him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you a drink?</span></span> <span class="text Matt-25-38" id="en-CEB-24040"><sup class="versenum" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;">38 </sup><span class="woj">When did we see you as a stranger and welcome you, or naked and give you clothes to wear?</span></span> <span class="text Matt-25-39" id="en-CEB-24041"><sup class="versenum" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;">39 </sup><span class="woj">When did we see you sick or in prison and visit you?’</span></span></span></div>
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<span class="text Matt-25-40" id="en-CEB-24042"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><sup class="versenum" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;">40 </sup><span class="woj">“Then the king will reply to them, ‘I assure you that when you have done it for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you have done it for me.’</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span class="text Matt-25-41" id="en-CEB-24043"><sup class="versenum" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;">41 </sup><span class="woj">“Then he will say to those on his left, ‘Get away from me, you who will receive terrible things. Go into the unending fire that has been prepared for the devil and his angels.</span></span> <span class="text Matt-25-42" id="en-CEB-24044"><sup class="versenum" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;">42 </sup><span class="woj">I was hungry and you didn’t give me food to eat. I was thirsty and you didn’t give me anything to drink.</span></span> <span class="text Matt-25-43" id="en-CEB-24045"><sup class="versenum" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;">43 </sup><span class="woj">I was a stranger and you didn’t welcome me. I was naked and you didn’t give me clothes to wear. I was sick and in prison, and you didn’t visit me.’</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span class="text Matt-25-44" id="en-CEB-24046"><sup class="versenum" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;">44 </sup><span class="woj">“Then they will reply, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or naked or sick or in prison and didn’t do anything to help you?’</span></span> <span class="text Matt-25-45" id="en-CEB-24047"><sup class="versenum" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;">45 </sup> <span class="woj">Then he will answer, ‘I assure you that when you haven’t done it for one of the least of these, you haven’t done it for me.’</span></span> <span class="text Matt-25-46" id="en-CEB-24048"><sup class="versenum" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;">46 </sup> <span class="woj">And they will go away into eternal punishment. But the righteous ones will go into eternal life.”</span></span></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16606108882562119681noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6188150314460533734.post-24001296193137499492012-10-04T20:57:00.000-07:002012-10-04T20:57:55.976-07:00Reflections on seminary, my call, and interfaith dialogue<span style="color: purple; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">So first of all, hello! I know it has been ages since I have written! I suppose I felt at a bit of a loss as to what to write about, and I wasn't really certain that anyone was reading. However, I have a question that was posed to me today that is weighing heavily on my mind that I would like to put out there in the hope that it will trigger thoughts and conversations of value in others (and hopefully with me). </span><br />
<span style="color: purple;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I am in the midst of my second year of seminary as a Masters of Divinity student. I came to seminary with the idea that I would not be pursuing a traditional ministry path in the parish, which I still have no intention of doing. I do not feel as though this is where God is calling me or where my strengths are. However, I did come to seminary with the (what now seems crazy) notion that I should pursue homeless and hunger ministry options because of my work as an AmeriCorps VISTA member and the experiences I had at a local homeless shelter during my time as a VISTA. I wholeheartedly thought this was what I was being called to by God. That all came to a crashing halt this fall after a series of less than ideal experiences and interactions with what was to be my field site for the year. Among the experiences, I was told by one individual from the organization that no one would ever take me serious in homelessness and hunger outreach because I am white. While I have no way of knowing if this is true, it certainly did make me question my ability to be effective in ministry of any form really. Other events ultimately made me call into question whether this organization was really the place for me, and whether this was really where God wanted me to be serving for the next 9 months. Turns out, its not! </span></span><br />
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">In the midst of all the chaos of this, I had a profound, yet challenging conversation with a pastor from the church I attend here in town. He told me at one point that some times God closes doors on a call. Straight forward enough, right? Well for me, this came as abrupt and a surprise. It was something I didn't want to hear. I came to school with homelessness and hunger as part of my plan. That is what I thought I was called to do. I planned on it. I like having a plan. God shouldn't just change the plan like that. What was I supposed to do if he closed the door on this call? Just get a new one? How? Who does that? Really God? I already came to seminary. What more do you want? </span><br />
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Needless to say, I wasn't happy with this pastor's statement to me about doors closing on a call. My initial reaction was frustration, and not even with God at first, but with the pastor. I didn't voice that to the pastor, but I did to my family. How could he say that? Looking back on it now, there is incredible wisdom in that simple statement. God truly did close a door on a part of a call for me. He simply showed me an even better, more incredible opportunity for me. This call, one to engage in interfaith dialogue and work, is one that has been budding since college for me. (If you want to know more about this, please ask.) I just failed to recognize it as a call to a form of ministry. I thought of it as an academic interest instead. I couldn't be happier with my new field site and the work I am doing to address the hate crimes against minority religious groups in the country. The whole experience this fall has opened me up to one of the mysterious ways in which God works in and through our lives to guide us to where we need to be in our call and ministry if we are just open to it. I am so incredibly thankful for this guidance and transition in my discernment. It is so much better than I could have ever imagined, and I feel truly blessed by my experience so far with my field site. </span><br />
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<span style="color: purple;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">So onto this question that I've been pondering for the last 9 hours. In a discussion with my field site supervisor today, we were talking about the differing views of/approaches to interfaith dialogue by Christians. It is interesting to note that my field site supervisor is a practicing Muslim, and I dearly love that we are engaging in interfaith dialogue as we discuss interfaith dialogue! Besides that, she is an incredible and inspiring woman. We noted 3 main positions on what seems to be a </span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">continuum</span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> of sorts. </span></span><br />
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<li><span style="color: purple; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">There are the people who think that we should have absolutely nothing to do with people of other faiths or "unbelievers" as some refer to them. (I particularly detest that term as one who does have meaningful relationships with people of other faiths.)</span></li>
<li><span style="color: purple; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">There are those individuals who chose for whatever reason to not really engage with people of other faiths but do not seem to have a strong feeling one way or another against it. </span></li>
<li><span style="color: purple; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">There are people more akin to myself who actively and enthusiastically engage interfaith dialogue and have relationships with people from other faith traditions. </span></li>
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">From there, my supervisor proceeded to ask about Jesus. What sort of people was Jesus known to interact with? Did society in his day approve? Well, NO! He challenged the status quo. In fact, he completely flipped the status quo on its head. We as Christians are called to love our neighbor. We are all beloved children of God. Then THE QUESTION came. The one I can't quit thinking about...it just keeps running through my head. How do I answer this. How do I respond? How do we act as Christians today in light of it? What does it mean in light of my call? So here it is...</span><br />
<span style="color: purple; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>Jesus was the one who showed love to all the "wrong" people. Who are those people in our society today? Who are the people that Jesus would befriend? Who are those that our society looks down upon as "other" or somehow "less than"? </b></span><br />
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Now, what are we going to do about it? </span><br />
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">P.S. I know it is really a series of questions. She only stated it as one. I added a few for clarity. </span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16606108882562119681noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6188150314460533734.post-72775949912736360522011-09-15T14:46:00.001-07:002011-09-15T15:21:52.321-07:00You know you are a nerd and take school a little too seriously when...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ymKXp25_l90/TnJ5-DOL-nI/AAAAAAAAAJs/VEnt-MPY0i8/s1600/IMAG0126.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 191px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ymKXp25_l90/TnJ5-DOL-nI/AAAAAAAAAJs/VEnt-MPY0i8/s320/IMAG0126.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5652714589227055730" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wWusjZfrEjI/TnJ59h-BJeI/AAAAAAAAAJk/0eP1NeWnYsI/s1600/IMAG0124.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 191px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wWusjZfrEjI/TnJ59h-BJeI/AAAAAAAAAJk/0eP1NeWnYsI/s320/IMAG0124.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5652714580300867042" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tEZ6uGC9pYQ/TnJ5-pwZDEI/AAAAAAAAAJ0/SrEHmErcDfM/s1600/IMAG0128.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 191px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tEZ6uGC9pYQ/TnJ5-pwZDEI/AAAAAAAAAJ0/SrEHmErcDfM/s320/IMAG0128.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5652714599571065922" border="0" /></a><br />So I had a bit of a minor revelation today about my love/possible obsession with school today while setting up my new (functional) printer and testing it out.<br /><br />Here is some background info on the revelation:<br />In case you didn't hear, I decided to pursue my Masters of Divinity degree at McCormick Theological Seminary beginning this month. As of now, I am about 2 weeks into classes as a seminary student. Additionally, as some of you know, I have often said that I think the ideal job for me would be to be able to get paid to take classes at colleges and universities around the world. At the end of each term, I would critique the overall class experience and provide extensive feedback for the instructors on ways to improve their courses and better reach their students. Awesome--I know!!!<br /><br />Listed below are the top ways I realized you should know you take school seriously. See what you think!<br /><br /><ol style="color: rgb(102, 0, 204);"><li>Your desk is about 3 times larger than your kitchen table. (See picture for proof)</li><li>You are willing to move into your new apartment without a bed but get rather anxious at the idea of not having a desk where you can study.<br /></li><li>You color coordinate the binder and spiral notebook for each class with the name of the classes your are taking (as you are best able). For example, my binder and spiral notebook for Intro to Biblical Studies are blue because Bible starts with at "b" as does blue. (Yet again, see picture for proof.)<br /></li><li>You have more pens, pencils, and highlighters than can fit in 3 pencil bags, a small 3 drawer set, and a pencil cup.</li><li>You LOVE buying any sort of school and office supplies. Need evidence of this? Just refer to # 3 above. (I know others who match this description...Wendy! :-) )<br /></li><li>You color coordinate your assignments for each class in your planner based on the color of the binder for the class (again as you are able--yellow presents a bit of a challenge). </li><li>You have a planner and actually use it. </li><li>You spend 20 minutes in the store looking at planners to try to find just the right one. So long in fact, that the sales reps starting asking if you need help locating anything because you look lost.<br /></li><li>You read so much your dog sleeps in your lap because she needs more quality time with you in some way. Oh, and she becomes your book rest. </li><li>You are stressed about classes and the only thing that will calm you down sufficiently is to organize your binders for each class.<br /></li><li>You realize all of this, find it funny, and decide to post it on the web for the world to see!!! </li></ol>So there you have it. My top 11 reasons as to how I know I am a nerd and take school a little too seriously! :-)Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16606108882562119681noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6188150314460533734.post-379970604120415732011-06-02T12:30:00.000-07:002011-06-02T13:05:56.020-07:00Hello out there?<span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);">This came to mind today after completing my most recent post...is anyone out there actually reading this?</span><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);">Blogs seem like this potentially awesome way of sharing your life experiences with others. I can't help but wonder this after seeing my 6 (ish) followers listed. Does anyone really care? Or is my blog more of a way for me send thoughts about my life into an endless oblivion? Is it essentially an online journal--one that keeps me from getting to those deep, challenging emotions--just in case someone actually does get around to reading it?</span><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);">We have all these incredible technological advances, and people always say that we are better connected because of them. I can't help but wonder if this is really true. Are we really better connected? Or do we just think that? How well do you really know your "friends"? Do they really know what is going on in your life? Is technology just a means of keeping people an arm's length away from us at all times under guise of "being connected"? </span><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);">Thoughts? Remarks? </span><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);">I would love to get people's feedback on this. </span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16606108882562119681noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6188150314460533734.post-3388964970574788012011-05-20T09:23:00.000-07:002011-06-02T12:17:16.735-07:00Approaching the finish line<span style="font-size:180%;">15 days. </span><span style="font-size:100%;">That is all that is left of my VISTA year (including weekends). Where has the time gone? In some ways it seems just like yesterday that I attended PSO (Pre-Service Orientation) in Lombard, Illinois before officially starting as a VISTA (volunteer in service to America). I have spent the last 11+ months volunteering/working as an Iowa Campus Compact AmeriCorps VISTA in the Office of Service-Learning and Campus Engagement at Coe College (long title, I know). It's hard to believe I have just a few weeks left.<br /><br />So much has changed in the last 11 months--personally, professionally, academically, etc. I came into this position knowing that I had not fully completed my education. I think I have known from a young age that I would be going to grad school. I just didn't know what degree I would be pursuing. Philosophy? Religion? Student Affairs? Seminary? I think it is quite possible that I considered all of those and several others during my time here at Coe. Choosing what field to get a master's degree in was no small feat for me. I have diverse interests. I had a hard enough time picking a major as an undergrad. In fact, I couldn't pick just one. I picked two! :-)<br /><br />Perhaps deep down I knew that I would go to seminary. It was one of those things I couldn't really ignore no matter how hard I tried. When I first started to seriously consider attending seminary, McCormick in Chicago wasn't very high on my list. As the hours of research continued and the more I learned about McCormick, the more I was drawn to it. An opportunity presented itself for me to visit the campus for their Inquiry into Ministry event back in February. Going to visit a school just a few days after a major blizzard is ridiculous. I DO NOT recommend it for anyone. In any case, I fell in love with school. I knew that it was the place for me. With less than a month until applications were do, I put my application together with as much care and precision as time would allow. Weeks later I got the joyous news that I had been accepted to McCormick. There was not a doubt in my mind that this was where I wanted to be.<br /><br />So now here I am--just a few short weeks from completing my time as a VISTA and only a few short months from starting at McCormick. I am at that point where I am getting both excited and nervous to go to McCormick. I am excited for the school work side of life. The thing I am most nervous about is living in Chicago. I'm sure it will be great. I just have never lived somewhere that big. I suppose this follows the trend in my life to try bigger and better things. I am looking forward to seeing where life takes me as I begin this next chapter of my life.<br /><br />I don't know that I can fully communicate all the things I have taken away from my time as a VISTA. I made some good friends. I learned valuable life lessons about handling difficult situations, people, and students. I gained a better understanding of the need to give back to the community. I narrowed down my area of interest for a career path. I came to know more about myself and the person I want to become. I think the most important thing I have gotten out of this whole experience is that you can accomplish great things (that you may not necessarily think you can do) if you just try. Don't question it--just DO. I did so many things during my time as a VISTA that I never thought I would do or do well. The best example of this is successfully co-presenting at the Iowa Campus Compact Mini-Conference and feeling great about the finished product. I never imagined that I would be told that people were inspired and were able to take something away from a presentation I gave. I HATE public speaking, but evidently, I'm not as bad at it as I originally thought I was. So lesson learned. Give yourself a chance to succeed before saying it is something you can't do. (Thanks for pushing me to do this, Mandi. I don't think I ever would have if it weren't for you!)<br /><br />Thanks to all of you who have supported me and been with me on this journey! I wouldn't be who I am today without your participation in my life. I wish you all the best of luck in your future endeavors. It has been a joy getting to know you and work with you.<br /><br /></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16606108882562119681noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6188150314460533734.post-55296190451042450982011-04-11T13:05:00.000-07:002011-04-11T17:50:01.417-07:00Friends Come and Friends GoI have always known that friends come and go in one's life. It seems like a natural part of life. There are some friends who are meant to be there for a long time, and then there are others who are only in our lives for a short time. Then there are those friends who you think will be there for you for a long time, but life sometimes has other plans for those friends.<br /><br />I am thinking of one friend in particular. I met this individual my first few days at Coe. Things seemed pretty great. We had a lot in common, hung out all the time, and got to know the inner workings of Coe together. I always imagined that she would be one those friends that I would have in my life for years to come. That all seemed to change right around the time I graduated from Coe. Suddenly our priorities in life seemed completely different. I was worried about what I would be doing with my life after college, and she was worried about who her next boyfriend would be.<br /><br />I realized that we were drifting apart and wasn't completely thrilled by that. We had been good friends for 2 years, but that doesn't seem to matter anymore. I don't have anything against her. We just have different priorities now. We drifted apart. That happens in life. There is no reason to have animosity towards one another. Just like there is no reason to be rude to the other. Obviously, there is no reason to go out our way to interact with one another. However, if we cross paths, please don't just ignore my existence. Being rude and turning your back to me does no good. It just makes you look like an ass. I hold no grudge. I would like to be able to say "hi" and ask "How is life going? Congrats on getting a job for after graduation!" It would be completely sincere, yet I feel like you wouldn't believe me. I am not asking for us to be friends or to hang out like we used to. Can we at least acknowledge our shared history and common humanity? Is that too much to ask?<br /><br />I know we will probably never speak since every time I have seen you lately you glare at me like you wish the earth would swallow me whole on the spot an then turn your back and ignore my existence. I just want that to end. I want for us to be able to acknowledge and accept where we are at in life. We both need to move. Just don't be an ass. Ignore me or not. Just don't be completely rude. You are a better person than that. Please act upon that. Your current friends deserve better than that. Show them what kind of person you can be even if you won't act that way around me.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16606108882562119681noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6188150314460533734.post-2715864803203174842011-04-01T19:15:00.000-07:002011-04-01T19:44:32.097-07:00Small town Iowa...Pella styleEver think that big cities can be confusing to drive? Lots of traffic, hard to read street signs, no sense of direction, feeling turned around? These seem to be pretty common issues that people face when driving in larger cities that they are unfamiliar with. I know that I have had some interesting adventures while driving in Chicago, St. Louis, etc. However, I would not think that somewhere like Pella, Iowa could be as infuriating to drive in as a huge city. I mean, in all honesty, Pella only has about 10,000 people within its city limits. How confusing could it really be?<br /><br />Well Pella itself was not the issue tonight. In fact, Pella has great streets with little windmills and all. They are easy to read. The roads seem pretty much straight--no strange or unexpected turns due to rivers and what not. The issue came in tonight due to the following issues:<br /><ol><li>the individual in charge of the logistics of the conference did not provide attendees with the address of the college president's address</li><li>the address is not posted online</li><li>college students are not the most clued-in people ever (i.e. an inability to give directions to places outside of the college campus)<br /></li><li>there are at least 3 streets with the exact same name in Pella--that DO NOT connect<br /></li><li>Main St. is under construction and there are little to no signs about detours (the student left that direction out)</li></ol>Any one of these obstacles might be easily overcome; however all of them combined made for quite the adventure for Wendy and I tonight. It ultimately took 45 minutes to find the house we were looking for in a town with 10,000 people in it. How many laps did we make of Pella? Answer: I have no clue! How frustrated was I? Answer Very!<br /><br />I suppose in the end, the statement that "Everyday in service-learning is an adventure" certainly held up. In fact, I can't really think of a time that this statement hasn't been true. In reality, getting lost in Pella, Iowa isn't that big of a deal. It is just highly annoying.<br /><br />There has been some good/entertainment that has come of my time in Pella. Here are some of my favorite quotes overheard while eating at the local "Pizza Ranch" (which serves not only pizza, but also fried chicken, fried fish, mashed potatoes, and green beans).<br /><ul><li>"I only have 2 brain cells left--one is in critical condition."<br /></li><li>"Hi, what's your name?" "Cody" "Oh, hi Jody." "NO--CODY!" "Hi, Jody." "NO!!! CODY!!!"<br /></li><li>"I am in an ornery mood tonight."<br /></li></ul>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16606108882562119681noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6188150314460533734.post-30544120983528669352011-03-21T08:35:00.001-07:002011-03-21T08:47:11.948-07:00Time for inspiration...quotes that have touched my heart<span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(51, 51, 255);"> <span >"Meditate.<br />Live purely. Be quiet.<br />Do your work with mastery.<br />Like the moon, come out<br />from behind the clouds!<br />Shine."</span></span><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(51, 51, 255);" >-- Buddha</span> <p style="font-family: georgia; color: rgb(0, 153, 0);" class="searchauthor" align=""><span style="">"Normal day, let me be aware of the treasure you are. Let me learn from you, love you, bless you before you depart. Let me not pass you by in quest of some rare and perfect tomorrow. Let me hold you while I may, for it may not always be so. One day I shall dig my nails into the earth, or bury my face in the pillow, or stretch myself taut, or raise my hands to the sky and want, more than all the world, your return."</span> -- Mary Jean Iron</p><p style="font-family: trebuchet ms; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(204, 51, 204);" class="searchauthor" align=""><span style=""> "To be nobody-but-yourself -- in a world which is doing its best night and day, to make you everybody else -- means to fight the hardest battle which any human being can fight; and never stop fighting."</span> -- e. e. cummings</p><p style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);" class="searchauthor" align=""><span style=""> <span >"Every blade of grass has its angel that bends over it and whispers, "Grow, grow." --</span></span><span >The Talmud</span></p><p style="font-family: trebuchet ms; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(51, 204, 255);" class="searchauthor" align=""><span style=""> "To have striven, to have made an effort, to have been true to certain ideals--this alone is worth the struggle. We are here to add what we can to, not to get what we can from, life." --</span>Sir William Osler</p><p style="font-family: georgia; color: rgb(255, 102, 102);" class="searchauthor" align="">"<span style="">There will always be dreams <span style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 193);"></span> grander or humbler than your own, but there will never be a dream exactly like your own...For you are unique and more wondrous than you know!" --</span>Linda Staten</p>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16606108882562119681noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6188150314460533734.post-80288588162524116422011-02-21T14:29:00.000-08:002011-02-28T17:42:20.557-08:00Touchy, Feely...I think so!Upon meeting me, I think it is generally quite evident that I care about the people around me. I am always conscious of how people feel. I work hard to make others feel included and as if their views matter. I try to be polite and acknowledge those around me (even if they are not favorite person). This all stems from my view that we are all human. That in itself requires us to treat everyone with respect and dignity. That is not to say that we must like every person we encounter or that we need to agree with everyone's position on volatile issues. We do, however, need to recognize our joint humanity and respect that. <br /><br />This is something that has been on my mind since sometime around August, when my co-workers and I took a personal leadership assessment. It was at this point that I was designated as the "touchy, feely" one in the office. I didn't see anything wrong with this. So I care about those around me in addition to doing a good job. What is the problem with that? In my mind, there is nothing wrong with that. However, since then I have begun to notice that any time someone referenced me as the "touchy feely" one, it comes out as a derogatory term. They make it sound as if it is a weakness to be concerned more about people than being so fixated on goals and outcomes. I really hate that. There is nothing wrong with focusing on people. It is merely a difference of personality traits.<br /><br />In the future, if you an encounter an individual who could be described as "touchy, feely," think twice before insinuating that there is something wrong with this. It just means that they care for someone other than themselves. You might give it a try. At the very least, recognize that there is more than one way to go through life.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16606108882562119681noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6188150314460533734.post-62532942158248575252011-02-03T16:03:00.000-08:002011-02-03T16:30:12.293-08:00Observations on the DayHowdy hey there!<br /><br />So I realize it's been quite awhile since I've written. I guess I just haven't felt inspired to write about anything lately. Today that changed...<br /><br />Here are a collection of random thoughts for the day<br /><ol><li>It is super freakin' fanstastically awesome when you find that someone has dug your car out of the 1 1/2 feet of snow that surrounded it! Thank you Verlyn!!! You are a rockstar at life!</li><li>It is also fantabulous when that same person lets your dog ride shotgun in their snow plow after she invites herself in for a ride!<br /></li><li>People who live in your building should not steal your favorite pink and green socks from laundry and then wear them around the building (especially when there are only 8 girls in the building). It's just not cool! I now have 2 incomplete pairs of socks. I refuse to wear one pink sock and one green sock. They need to match!!!</li><li>Students should not walk around a common area in only their boxes that are literally falling apart. Being connected to the waist band in only 3 spots means it is time to buy some new ones!<br /></li><li>Cuddling with your dog on a cold snowy day = pure bliss! The only way it would be better was if Eliot was here too!<br /></li><li>Don't take a shower with your bf and sing at the top of your lungs. It scares the other residents.</li><li>We should all have the guts to take a stand for the major issues in our society that we are passionate about. Thank you, Tyler, for teaching me that! It might be frightening, but our actions are bigger than us. </li><li>My Italian host mother is the best host mother I could have ever asked for. More than a year later, we still exchange emails and gifts. I love that lady!!!<br /></li></ol>While these may be some random thoughts, for some reason or other these struck me as profound. I hope you enjoyed my random insights into life today!<br /><br />Live life to the fullest!!!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16606108882562119681noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6188150314460533734.post-26821908618106862072010-11-30T16:19:00.000-08:002010-11-30T16:34:04.999-08:00Death of the Reusable Grocery BagsSo I am all for the use of reusable grocery bags. I think there is no need to waste resources and to make so many plastic bags. They will probably just end up in a landfill anyways. I can't say that I am always the best at remembering to take them to the store, but I have been getting better at it. <br /><br />I went grocery shopping the other day and took 3 of my reusable grocery bags with me. I didn't have a ton of groceries, and they would have easily fit within in three bags. They lady who was checking me out asked, "how heavy do you want them?" I said, "Just spread the groceries between the 3 bags. I don't want them to be heavy." I guess she wasn't listening or thought she knew better. She ended up cramming all my purchases into only 2 of the bags. As a result, they were overly heavy and awkward to carry. In the end, one of them ended up ripping.<br /><br />This isn't the first time this has happened. It hasn't been at the same store either. Why is that the cashiers feel a need to cram all of my things into fewer bags than is reasonable? They wouldn't bag groceries that way in a plastic sack. Why do they do it with reuable ones? If it's because of the 5 cents they need to rethink this plan. It's a joke to say that they are encouraging shoppers to use these bags to save the environment. They are just being greedy and causing their customers problems. It's just plain frustrating!<br /><br />I still plan to use the bags (well the ones I have left).Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16606108882562119681noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6188150314460533734.post-50742747362118054072010-11-04T09:32:00.000-07:002010-11-04T09:44:24.015-07:00OutlooksI have noticed that in recent days it has not taken much for my mood to change from positive/optimistic to frustrated and downtrodden. I have not been a fan of how much it has been happening. Generally, I am extremely optimistic and peppy about life. I like being like that. It keeps me going even during the rough patches. I have been trying to figure out what needs to change so that I can continue to be the peppy person that I have the tendency to be. I don't know that I have figured out exactly what needs to change, but I feel like I am taking steps in the right direction. <br /><br />I found a quote today that I think is going to be helpful. It should help keep things in perspective!<br />Dennis & Wendy Mannering once said, "<span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(51, 102, 255);">Attitudes are contagious. Are yours worth catching?</span><span style="color: rgb(51, 102, 255);">" </span><br /><br />I suppose at first glance, this isn't the most astounding quotation ever, but at the same time, if you stop to think about it, it is quite profound. If you have a negative attitude, why would people want to be around you? Enthusiasm, joy, happiness, etc are contagious. I would hope that my family, friends, and coworkers see me as an enthusiastic and upbeat person. If I really analyze what's been going on in my life, it's not that bad. I am very blessed live the life I do. I have an amazing family, a wonderful boyfriend, caring friends, and great coworkers. I have an adorable dog. My goal is to start focusing on the good and learn to move past the frustrating elements. They are bound to happen, but there is no reason I have to let them get me down. <br /><br />Wishing you all a blessed day!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16606108882562119681noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6188150314460533734.post-75193833233732733912010-10-13T10:41:00.000-07:002010-10-13T10:52:40.742-07:00Philosophy Major...better than you thought!<span style="color: rgb(153, 51, 153);">Why is it that everyone assumes that a philosophy major is instant career suicide? Do people honestly not realize that philosophy is the backbone of pretty much everything else in the world--math, science, religion, business, ethics, law, psychology, etc. </span><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 51, 153);">According to Merriam-Webster, philosophy can be defined as </span><span style="color: rgb(153, 51, 153);" class="ssens"><em class="sn"><br />"a</em> <strong>:</strong> pursuit of wisdom </span><span style="color: rgb(153, 51, 153);" class="ssens"><span class="break"> </span><em class="sn"><br />b</em> <strong>:</strong> a search for a general understanding of values and reality by chiefly speculative rather than observational means </span><span style="color: rgb(153, 51, 153);" class="ssens"><span class="break"> </span><em class="sn"><br />c</em> <strong>:</strong> an analysis of the grounds of and concepts expressing fundamental beliefs."<br /><br /></span><span style="color: rgb(153, 51, 153);">Stop giving me some BS line about how your business degree is so much more "practical" than my philosophy degree! I can do anything I want with my degree. You know why BECAUSE I CAN THINK!!! It's a hell of a lot more practical than it gets credit for. It's not my fault you couldn't hack the intro class. I stuck it out for the whole major. It influences the way I think of just about everything. I love studying philosophy. If you don't think it's practical, that's fine. Stop wasting my time trying to convince me of it. I'm not going to have it. I'm done. I know the worth of my degree. Sorry you don't. Back off!!!</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16606108882562119681noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6188150314460533734.post-63885109113594064052010-10-08T13:56:00.000-07:002010-10-08T14:30:15.085-07:00New Stage of Life<span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0);">I suppose I have always had certain assumptions/plans about how my life would go. Elementary school, middle school, high school, college, career... I figured it would be a pretty straightforward/nothing too exciting existence. Surprise, surprise. It hasn't really worked out at all as I had assumed. The great thing about that is that is SO MUCH better than I could have ever imagined. There have, of course, been some less than ideal moments all throughout, but on the whole, life is great!!!<br /><br />I have had the blessing of getting to attend not one but 2 colleges that I have absolutely love! I had the opportunity to spend 4 incredible months abroad in Italy with the best host family anyone could ever ask for. I have a great position at a school I love working in an area that I am passionate about. The best part about all of it is that I didn't expect any of it. All of these great opportunities seemed to come out of nowhere. They weren't in the original plans. They came up and I felt called to pursue them. Going to Cottey was a last minute decision (Coe not quite as much). I didn't think studying abroad would even be an option, but it turned out it was. The most interesting of them has to be getting my position as an AmeriCorps VISTA at Coe. A week before graduation, I am presented with it. I apply that night; interview 4 days later, and on Friday I am offered the position. Talk about a quick turn-around time. I wasn't even actively seeking a job. I just thought I would go with my stand-by at home while I looked for something else. It is just incredible how all of these opportunities came along. I don't think I realized it at the time, but God was definitely pushing me in the right direction with each and every one of these decisions. I wouldn't be where I am if it weren't for him!!!<br /><br />Upon my graduation from Coe, I wasn't entirely certain what career path I wanted to actively pursue. I have interest in several related, but distinct areas. I just didn't know which path to take. Should I go to seminary and do some sort of ministry? Should I go to grad school so I can teach comparative religion? Non-profit work? Counseling? After working at Coe for 4 months, I have come to rule out some of those possibilities but found a truly exciting new option. What is it?, you ask. Student Affairs! I love student affairs. I get to work at a college, encourage students to participate in service, and work with some amazing people. I love the atmosphere, the work, and the people. After going to the Iowa Student Personnel Association (of which I am now a member) Conference, I came to realize that I would be happy pursuing a career in this field. There is a wide range of positions within the field. I think what solidified it in my mind was meeting one individual whose position deals with both religious life and residence life. It had never crossed my mind that perhaps you could combine religion and student affairs. It sounds like a great fit to me. God really does work in mysterious ways!<br /><br />I can't say enough how excited and blessed I am to have his loving guidance in my life! I feel so blessed to have a loving family, friends, a fantastic boyfriend who I wouldn't trade for anything, a crazy yet spunky dog, and most importantly, a God who loves me!<br /></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16606108882562119681noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6188150314460533734.post-64457102949334490472010-09-20T08:40:00.000-07:002010-09-20T21:29:01.861-07:00Reflections on Technology--Blessing or Curse? (Round 1)<span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);font-family:trebuchet ms;" >In light of recent events in the lives of an individual very close to me, I have spent a great deal of time contemplating the value of the advancement of technology in our lives. Does it really do more harm then good? Does it really simplify our lives? Does it create unnecessary stress? Are we becoming closed off from the world around us? If so, these are serious implications. I don't know that I can safely say I am comfortable with all of the answers I have come to. Here are my reflections thus far...</span><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);font-family:trebuchet ms;" >Topic #1: Facebook</span><br /><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);font-family:trebuchet ms;" > I will honestly say that in most instances I could be considered a sizable fan of Facebook. I can keep in contact with friends from Texas, Indiana, Cottey, Coe, my study abroad experience in Italy, and even my host mom. I love the ability to connect with people in a different way than just an email or text. In some ways, now that I am out of college, Facebook does not seem to be a great a part of my life as it was in college. My levels of free time has changed dramatically. Time I spent avoiding homework on Facebook is no longer a feasible. That time is not spent sending out countless emails and revising a syllabus 4th time in a month and a half. I like the connections provided by Facebook. It just doesn't consume my life the same way it once did. </span><br /><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);font-family:trebuchet ms;" > The main problem of Facebook for me lies in the fact that individuals who probably shouldn't be contacting you still do. Take for instance an ex who hasn't quite gotten over you. They send you a message saying "I miss you. I still love you. I just don't want to be with you." What kind of message does that send to the receiver? You love me, but not enough to be with me. I have gotten similar messages. I hated every single one of them. When you see the sender, you know you shouldn't open. For whatever ridiculous reason, you feel compelled to open it even though you know it will only bring about pain. Why must we torment one another in this way? If you break up with someone, that's it. Game's over. Now you must deal with the consequences. Once you ended things, you have no business telling the ex that you still love them and miss but have no desire to be with them. That is just completely and utterly cruel. I've had my heart broken, and the situation was only exacerbated by messages and other things I saw on Facebook. I don't need my news feed to constantly tell me what I am now missing out on but am not worth being with. It just makes an already crappy situation that much worse. </span><br /><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);font-family:trebuchet ms;" > I guess what I am saying is that the internet...and Facebook in particular seems to encourage behaviors that people wouldn't engage in during a face-to-face interaction. It thoroughly frustrates me that people think it is ok for them to act as they will and cause pain to those they claim to care about. Your actions do have an impact on those around you whether you want to believe it or not. So perhaps next time you think about sending that message to an ex on Facebook, consider what the possible implications of that message will be. Don't send it just to be cruel. What if you were on the receiving it? How would you feel? Think before you push send. Once you send it, there is no taking it back. </span><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);font-family:trebuchet ms;" >Topic #2: E-mail</span><br /><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);font-family:trebuchet ms;" > This was inspired by a recommendation that I got from a colleague about communicating with our fellow colleagues. Our society is so centered around email. The majority of my 8-15 hour work days are spent on a computer. Doing what? Sending emails. Responding to emails. Drafting emails. I am in my 20s and now beginning to have a difficult time remembering what life was like without email. Students get frustrated with me when I don't respond instantaneously to the email they sent at 10:00 pm. Excuse me for not checking my work email account after I leave work the day. After 70 hour weeks, the last thing I want to do is respond to an email. </span><br /><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);font-family:trebuchet ms;" > Email controls everything we do--scheduling meetings, confirming appointments, discussing issues with students, contacting students to make up missed meetings, contacting community partners, just checking in with other people at Coe. So in response to this fixation with email, the Campus Life staff (of which I am apart) is making a concerted effort to have as much face-to-face interaction as possible. If that means making a quick trip across campus to ask a question in person or just down the hall, we try to make the effort to have that human interaction. If you can't make it there in person, you can always make a phone call. I really love having this reminder. I would much rather interact with my colleagues than be locked up in my office chained to my computer responding to email. I love the personal interactions that take place. Relationships are built and sustained. Where would you be in your life without email? Have you ever considered placing a greater importance on actually interacting with a human rather than a machine whenever possible? I highly recommend that you do. It is well worth the investment of your time. Isn't that what life is about? Relationships with one another? Give it a try and see if you notice any differences. </span><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);font-family:trebuchet ms;" >I have so much more I could say on this topic. I am sure there will be plenty more to come. This is just the beginning. I guess my final thoughts for tonight include</span><br /><ul style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0); font-family: trebuchet ms;"><li>think about how your words/actions will impact others</li><li>don't do/send things online that you wouldn't be comfortable doing in person</li><li>make an effort to connect with people by phone or face-to-face as much as possible</li><li>make people a priority--not email or technology of any kind for that matter.<br /></li></ul><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);font-family:trebuchet ms;" >I am speaking as much to myself as to anyone else. Focus on people. They matter! </span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16606108882562119681noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6188150314460533734.post-48957154507214470682010-09-12T10:47:00.000-07:002010-09-20T10:26:27.734-07:00Rocking Out...Seeing Slash in Concert<span style="color: rgb(153, 51, 153);">So a week ago tomorrow, my boyfriend and I went to see Slash in concert. I had no idea what I was getting myself into going to this concert. I can't say that I knew too much about Slash before this concert. All I knew was what Eliot what had told me about the guitarist from Guns n' Roses. </span><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 51, 153);">In getting dressed for the concert, I asked Eliot what to wear. He response was something along the lines, "Just wear what you normally wear." So I did. Not exactly the smartest move I have ever made. I pulled the top clean shirt out of the draw and a nice pair of jeans. What did I wear to a Slash concert? 1 bright pink shirt, jeans, a daisy necklace, and a pair of cute shoes. I realized the error of my ways when we got to the venue. Pretty much everyone else was wearing torn jeans, black t-shirts from bands like Metallica and Guns n' Roses. A lot of people had interesting piercings and tattoos. </span><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 51, 153);">Initially, I felt really awkward about being there. I thought the opening band was terrible. And then...Slash came on with Myles Kennedy. It turned out to be an awesome concert! I was kind of surprised how much I enjoyed myself. The very best part of the whole thing was seeing Eliot as happy as he was seeing his all-time favorite guitarist in person. It was great!</span><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(153, 51, 153);">One last thing...I realized while at the concert that I will never be able to get away from the label of being a "nerd." Perhaps you are wondering why. This is why. During the entirety of the opening act, I was thinking about Nietszche's writings on herd mentality. All I could think about is how people seem to adopt the same or similar behaviors as those around them. My philosophy professors should be proud. Philosophy creeps into every area of my life...even going to concerts by awesome guitarists.</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16606108882562119681noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6188150314460533734.post-7401715631931029982010-08-29T17:39:00.001-07:002010-08-29T17:39:58.041-07:00Feeling quote-yIt wasn't the reward that mattered or the recognition you might harvest. It was your depth of commitment, your quality of service, the product of your devotion -- these were the things that counted in life. When you gave purely, the honor in giving, and that was honor enough.<br /><br />--Captain Scott O'GradyAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16606108882562119681noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6188150314460533734.post-28749589688046520032010-08-24T08:40:00.000-07:002010-08-24T08:47:10.610-07:00It's Here<span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);">It's hard to believe that it's already time for first year students to move in today. I can't help but reflect on my time in college (which I realize was not that long ago). I remember how nervous I was to start college. It turns out (no matter how cliche it sounds) to be the best years of my life so far. I made awesome friends from all across the country and globe. Many of those friendships will be lifelong relationships. I don't know where I would be today without my Cottey girls and the awesome people working at Cottey. Coe is/was great too. I am so thankful that I had the opportunity to study abroad and meet my amazing host family. I can only hope that I can help the students I encounter through this position to have an equally great college experience. Here's to a great year!</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16606108882562119681noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6188150314460533734.post-78714723786721784682010-08-22T20:35:00.000-07:002010-08-22T20:55:57.743-07:00Summing it up...<span style="color: rgb(204, 0, 0);">I have thoroughly enjoyed participating in 13 Things. I have learned so much about Web 2.0. It's been great. I have suggested some of the things to my dad for him to use in his line of work. I've also found ways to make use of some of them in my office at Coe. This school year the Office of Service-Learning & Campus Engagement (fondly thought of as "OSLiCE") is going to have a blog about all the events put on by our office. I am pretty excited about it as a way to engage with students in a different way and maybe even gain some publicity for our office. </span><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(255, 204, 0);">I think my time with the 13 things has been good for me personally as well as professionally. I have learned about all sorts of great web 2.0 features that I had no clue about. I feel more knowledgeable about some of the more recent technological advances. Ask my brother, I tend to be someone clueless about anything other than the basics. I think it's been rather interesting to read other peoples views and insights regarding web 2.0. Some of the things I thought would be really great to use in a classroom setting others saw as not particularly helpful. This experience has opened my eyes to the greater possibilities to connect with students as well as others whether it be in my personal life or with Coe. </span><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(102, 0, 204);">I can't really say that I had any expectations going into this. Quite honestly, I didn't know what web 2.0 was or what I was getting myself into. As with many things in my life, I dove in head first and learned a lot. It's been a lot of fun along the way. At times it was pretty time consuming (in part because I am not the most...shall we say...'technologically gifted' individual ever). The time put into this undertaking has definitely been worthwhile. I am glad Mandi encouraged me to pursue this. I much prefer this exercise in "self-discovering" rather than a workshop. This means of exploring web 2.0 let me figure things out for myself which I think makes it easier for me to remember how to use the different "things." </span><br /><br />Out of all the things we have looked into, my favorite has definitely been cloud computing. I love Google Docs and the calendar!!! I think my life at work has been simplified with the addition of this to my work life. I am still figuring out some of the details, but so far, it is great! I also really enjoy LibraryThing and flickr. <br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);">I think it is only fair to say that my life would be incomplete without words (especially in the form of quotes). If you hadn't already guessed, I absolutely love Wordle. It was interesting to see what all came up on mine. I think it would be fun to make for the office to display. I think it is cool way of communicating.</span> <a href="http://www.wordle.net/show/wrdl/2319051/Untitled">Here's mine</a>. <span style="color: rgb(0, 102, 0);">I like the element of randomness that comes into play with it. </span><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 0);">Lisa, thanks for introducing me to the world of web 2.0. It's been great!!! </span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16606108882562119681noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6188150314460533734.post-1049830157016213912010-08-22T20:16:00.000-07:002010-08-24T08:39:46.475-07:00Is it just me or is it gettin' toasty in here?<span style="color: rgb(204, 0, 0);">Screen Toaster seems cool. I just don't think I am tech-savvy enough to make use of it. Unless perhaps, I can use it when I need my brother's help fixing my computer. I think it could be quite helpful in terms of learning how to use various applications and other elements of Web 2.0. I am not entirely certain how I could make use of this in my office just yet, but I don't want to give up hope just yet. I might just need to tinker around with it a bit more and give it a bit more thought. Until then I am left feeling somewhat clueless about the whole thing.</span><br /><span style="color: rgb(204, 0, 0);">My attempt at</span> "<a href="http://www.screentoaster.com/watch/stUE5VRkBNRFtXQlhfX1pRV1JX">toasting the screen</a>."Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16606108882562119681noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6188150314460533734.post-66824617624952812692010-08-22T19:50:00.000-07:002010-08-24T08:40:24.600-07:00Gettin' Creative with Creative Commons<span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Watching the videos made Creative Commons seem really great. When exploring the website, I came to find that it wasn't quite as easy to navigate as I imagined it would. That being said, I still think it could have some good uses for students in various arenas so long as they take time to verify that the item they have selected actually falls within the realm of "creative commons." I could imagine some students not putting in the effort to verify such sources. I think as with any type of source students use for the academic endeavors, we need to teach students the correct way to make use of external information and media and how to properly site work. Even when students have been taught how to use MLA, APA, or Chicago guidelines for citations, there are still students who will plagiarize someone's work. As it is now, I think most students probably do not fully understand copyright law. As with most things, there seem to be some positives and negatives to Creative Commons. Personally, I love the idea of collaborating on a project with someone across the globe in a common drive for self-expression. Now I just need to figure out how to go about that...</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16606108882562119681noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6188150314460533734.post-74203573423075953992010-08-22T19:34:00.000-07:002010-08-24T08:40:06.315-07:00Good Reads...I mean...Google ReaderI can certainly see how having Google Reader set up could be quite useful to some individuals. I just don't think I am one of those people. The main reasons I seem to get online are to check/respond to email, check my facebook, and the occasional research. I get the majority of my news for the day by watching the early morning news and the local news at night before going to bed. I think between my limited interaction with the internet outside of communicating with family, friends, and colleagues, Delicious takes care of all my internet needs (at least for now). I could see how one day that may change, but right now it probably won't become a main part of my online life.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16606108882562119681noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6188150314460533734.post-39182814100241450412010-07-28T08:06:00.000-07:002010-07-28T08:24:27.359-07:00LibraryThing rocks my socks<span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);">In case you couldn't tell, I absolutely love books and love reading! So online cataloging is great. I've already added 70ish books to my library (and that's only the ones I can remember right now). My username on LibraryThing is<span style="color: rgb(204, 0, 0);"> <span style="color: rgb(153, 51, 153);">kegriffin</span></span>. (Creative, I know. Don't be envious...jk) I can see how beneficial it will be to have a catalog of books I have read, want to read, own, etc. all in one place that I can access from just about anywhere. I am excited to see just how many books I can come up with that I have read and am in possession of. I'm guessing it's going to be a pretty large number. Barnes & Noble is my favorite store after all. :)</span><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);">One thing I like about LibraryThing is the ability to categorize books as I see fit. I can have the novels I've read for fun, career guides, childhood favorites, and areas of interest. This is nice feature. I also think this will be a fun way to interact with fellow book enthusiasts (like my family, friends, etc...).</span><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);">I think online cataloging could definitely have a place in a school setting. Faculty members can develop an online catalog of required texts for a course, additional sources they consider credible, as well as books of interest that facilitate a students' ability to further pursue a field of interest. I wish some of my high school teachers and college professors would have had this as an option while I was a student.</span><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(255, 102, 102);">As if it wasn't already obvious, I think online cataloging is a great resource! I am happy to have learned about it. Prior to 13 things, I had no idea such websites existed. Thanks including this one!!!</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16606108882562119681noreply@blogger.com0