I'm into day three of migraines, which I didn't even start getting until I was in my late 40s, so I will keep this post short and sweet. But it's been too long, I had to write something.
It's a little over a week before Election Day. You will never, ever, get party politics from me. I simply do not play that game. I understand it's the way our system works, but it's become so bad, and so irrelevant to what's really important, that is has no use to me in the real world. I saw a post on Facebook recently that said, "Research, pray, vote." That sums it up for me. Please do not take television advertisements and file that under "research." It's not. It's like the horoscope in the Sunday paper, it's in there for entertainment purposes only. None of it is real. Look for candidates that give you a reason to vote "for" them, not "against" someone else. Vote for candidates that express a clear vision of what their district/state/country should look like; and what the candidate will do to move toward that goal.
Beware of candidates that have little experience working in the real world. Avoid those who speak more favorably about the government than they do about the citizens. Find out which candidates have a religious faith, and have not been shy about discussing it or proclaiming it.
More than anything, pray. Ask God for guidance, and wisdom. That's what I have been doing -- in many aspects of my life.
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I want to be king for a day, so I can make major campaign reforms across this country. Severely cut back on the time allowed to campaign for office. Make the campaign season much shorter, and make money less of a factor in who gets elected. Don't even allow a national candidate to announce their candidacy until six months before an election.
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Tony LaRussa will be back for the Cardinals. I can't say I'm surprised; I can't say I'm thrilled. He says he's going to press base-running more. He's going to take a different attitude with the media and the players. Did he see Dr. Phil after the season ended?
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Josh Hamilton is quickly becoming one of my favorite players, right up there with Albert Pujols. His story is so amazing, so powerful and so real that I start to shed a tear every time he starts talking about God. His teammates seem to be rallying around him, too. I was moved when, as he was accepting his series MVP award Friday night, he mentioned that the glory went to God and thousands of Texans applauded and cheered. He was so far down, so broken and so messed up. It proves that God is with us, all the time. All it takes is for us to move toward Him, and He will be there to pull us up out of the mud.
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Is "randomness" even a word?
23 October 2010
07 October 2010
Be Careful...
One of my least favorite sayings in the world is: "Be careful what you wish for."
I heard it used just a couple days ago in a conversation about Tony LaRussa possibly leaving. For some reason that statement got my attention. But I regress...
I thought about that saying again Wednesday night after I saw the results of the Philadelphia/Cincinnati baseball game. I had watched the first four innings of that affair. Cincy's pitcher couldn't get ahead of any Philly hitters; meanwhile Roy Halladay was perfect through four. I had to leave, but honestly I wasn't surprised when I got home and heard the story. It was obvious that nobody was going to beat Halladay on that night. In fact, he no-hit the Reds; an amazing feat in the post-season. (But nothing compared to Don Larsen in '56.)
Umm, Cardinal fans...that could have been us.
Can you imagine our weak-hitting, inconsistent lineup going against Halladay Wednesday night? Because there is no doubt that the winner of the weak Central Division would in fact have been paired with the Phillies, the club with the best record in the National League.
Can you imagine the embarrassment of watching Halladay no-hit the Cardinals? Heck, it probably would have been a perfect game against the undisciplined Cardinal attack. Can you imagine the Cardinals wilting again -- watch what happens to Cincy -- and being swept again in the first round of the playoffs? Would that not have been more painful then spending the last week of the season without a care in the world, watching the Redbirds beat up on the hapless Rockies?
Oh, and that reminds me of something else. As much as I have hopped aboard the "Don't Come Back Tony" train, watching the Rockies during the last week helped me gain some perspective.
The Rockies, clearly a better hitting club than the Cardinals, and one of the better lineups in the National League, were clueless against our second-tier pitching. They just weren't hitting. They didn't have a great first half of the season, then got hot in August and lifted themselves into the Western Division race. But then their bats just fizzled, and they dropped like a...well, like a rock.
The same ailment affected the Cards this season. Our team should have won the division, but we were just too inconsistent. We just couldn't hit. Our bats just went cold too often. It's not that we didn't try, or that we didn't care. Don't get me wrong, some members of the Cardinals need to hustle some more, but I mean as a team, we didn't quit. It just wasn't meant to be this year. Some years it's meant to be; say, 2006? We limped into the post season with barely a winning record, but we got hot at the right time and won it all. This year wasn't meant to be. Some seasons you aren't supposed to win. Some decades you aren't supposed to win; ask the Pirates.
There is no way the Cardinals would have won the World Series, or any series, even if we had made the playoffs. Getting there is great, but how do you think Cincy fans feel this morning? How will they feel when they are bounced out on their butts by the Phillies, who I really think will win it all. We got there last year, but spent the entire winter trying to make excuses why we stunk so bad. So think about how much better we feel today, not having faced Roy Halladay last night.
I guess it's true when they say "Be careful what you wish for." Ok, I get it now. So, I guess it's goodbye, Tony.
I heard it used just a couple days ago in a conversation about Tony LaRussa possibly leaving. For some reason that statement got my attention. But I regress...
I thought about that saying again Wednesday night after I saw the results of the Philadelphia/Cincinnati baseball game. I had watched the first four innings of that affair. Cincy's pitcher couldn't get ahead of any Philly hitters; meanwhile Roy Halladay was perfect through four. I had to leave, but honestly I wasn't surprised when I got home and heard the story. It was obvious that nobody was going to beat Halladay on that night. In fact, he no-hit the Reds; an amazing feat in the post-season. (But nothing compared to Don Larsen in '56.)
Umm, Cardinal fans...that could have been us.
Can you imagine our weak-hitting, inconsistent lineup going against Halladay Wednesday night? Because there is no doubt that the winner of the weak Central Division would in fact have been paired with the Phillies, the club with the best record in the National League.
Can you imagine the embarrassment of watching Halladay no-hit the Cardinals? Heck, it probably would have been a perfect game against the undisciplined Cardinal attack. Can you imagine the Cardinals wilting again -- watch what happens to Cincy -- and being swept again in the first round of the playoffs? Would that not have been more painful then spending the last week of the season without a care in the world, watching the Redbirds beat up on the hapless Rockies?
Oh, and that reminds me of something else. As much as I have hopped aboard the "Don't Come Back Tony" train, watching the Rockies during the last week helped me gain some perspective.
The Rockies, clearly a better hitting club than the Cardinals, and one of the better lineups in the National League, were clueless against our second-tier pitching. They just weren't hitting. They didn't have a great first half of the season, then got hot in August and lifted themselves into the Western Division race. But then their bats just fizzled, and they dropped like a...well, like a rock.
The same ailment affected the Cards this season. Our team should have won the division, but we were just too inconsistent. We just couldn't hit. Our bats just went cold too often. It's not that we didn't try, or that we didn't care. Don't get me wrong, some members of the Cardinals need to hustle some more, but I mean as a team, we didn't quit. It just wasn't meant to be this year. Some years it's meant to be; say, 2006? We limped into the post season with barely a winning record, but we got hot at the right time and won it all. This year wasn't meant to be. Some seasons you aren't supposed to win. Some decades you aren't supposed to win; ask the Pirates.
There is no way the Cardinals would have won the World Series, or any series, even if we had made the playoffs. Getting there is great, but how do you think Cincy fans feel this morning? How will they feel when they are bounced out on their butts by the Phillies, who I really think will win it all. We got there last year, but spent the entire winter trying to make excuses why we stunk so bad. So think about how much better we feel today, not having faced Roy Halladay last night.
I guess it's true when they say "Be careful what you wish for." Ok, I get it now. So, I guess it's goodbye, Tony.
23 September 2010
Paul and the Galatians
Strangely, just as I began researching for what I'm sure would have been an amazing post about "judging others," I began a Bible study on the book of Galatians. A short little thing, but man does it pack a punch. I have already learned it's one of Paul's strongest, most intense letters. I learned there was a lot at stake for Paul, and for future generations of Gentiles.
What's strange is how powerfully this introductory text and subsequent discussion affected me. Paul was seriously upset at the outside influences that were corrupting his teachings. Paul told the Gentiles that the way to salvation was by faith, through grace, plus... well, plus nothing! It was those outside influences, namely the Jerusalem Jews, that were suggesting to the Gentiles that although Paul was a cool dude and all, he didn't quite have all the facts. One had to become fully Jewish in order to be a part of God's family. In other words, one had to follow the dietary laws, observe the sabbath and be circumcised.
"Umm, I'm not sure if I want to be a part of that, I mean..." Can't you just hear the Gentile men talking about this? Can't you imagine them running away as fast as they can? What's also strange is how I -- and my peers -- have experienced something very much similar to this.
When I was younger, all those years ago, and was struggling to find myself and figure out the world around me, my friends and I would often discuss religion. Most of the time, of course, we were defending our decision to not attend church and stay as far away from religion as we could. Often, the conversation would center around the ideas that we honestly thought made up a religious life: i.e., the things we thought we had to do to become "Christians."
Universally, in my peer group, those things included going to church early on Sunday morning, not making mistakes, following all the rules and forcing your beliefs on others. Attending church on Sunday mornings was tough. There were Saturday nights when we didn't stop partying until most Christians were already on their way to church. Not making mistakes, we thought, was impossible. Why try? Following all the rules was boring and difficult. Not a great combination for lazy teenagers. And we knew we didn't want to hear that gospel stuff from other people, so we knew we weren't cut out to impose it on anyone else. But since I have returned to the church as an adult, I find that really none of those precepts were true at all.
One does not have to attend church on Sunday morning in order to be a Christian. One can find God while sitting at home. I certainly believe that; but I also know from experience that if one really wants to follow Jesus, you need to belong and regularly attend a church. It's hard enough to get through life as a Christian with full support. I wouldn't want to fathom trying to do it alone. In fact, I would deem that as impossible. Joining a group of followers, who can relate to you, support you and teach you, is imperative.
Christianity is not about being perfect. Jesus was about that, and thank you Jesus for coming here and finding out first hand what living on this earth is like. But no human being is capable of being mistake-free. It doesn't mean we don't strive to obey God, but the reality is none of us will ever make it. By the same token, following all the rules is not what Christianity is about, either. Is it important how we live? Yes, of course. But as many of us know, we are saved by faith, through grace -- Paul's message to the Gentiles throughout his missionary journeys. Should we do good works? Of course. Should we strive to do the right thing? Absolutely. But that's the benefit of being saved. We are free to do good works in His name. It's not a requirement, however.
And about witnessing, or spreading the word. The task of witnessing is so daunting. I have heard many Christian leaders, some of which I like very much, say things like: "When we face God he'll ask two questions. Do you know me, and who did you bring with you?"
In some ways, this rings true with every Christian, and at times haunts my being to the core. I am so worried that I can't say the right thing; or lacking in confidence because I am so unworthy, etc. We have a duty to share the Gospel with as many people as possible. We have to figure out how to do this in the course of our daily lives. But I really don't think it's about beating people over the head with the Bible. I see some who believe in standing on the street corner and directly confronting people with the Gospel. That's always been troubling to me. I admire the courage to stand out in public and preach the word, but doing so in a confrontational manner just doesn't work, at least in my world. God bless those who try. And if one person is saved in this manner, I guess it's worth it. You just wonder how many others have been chased away by these methods.
My favorite pastor always goes to John, Chapter 9. The blind man who was healed was not a mature Christian. He didn't have fancy words. He wasn't particularly smart or educated. He had few experiences to draw from. He didn't have a Bible. "All I know," he said, "is once I was blind, but now I can see." We all have our own story to tell. We don't need to fear anything. It's not important what fancy words we use, how smart we sound, or how many scriptures we can quote. What matters is it's our story, no one else's; and no one can refute that or take it away. It's still not easy, but we don't have to worry about doing it well; we just need to do it from the heart. It's still the most difficult thing to do. And not doing so is weak, and sinful, but it's also forgiven, as are all of our sins.
See, that's the part that Christians didn't make us aware of in the 60s and 70s. We didn't realize that. Or the devil hid it from us, maybe. But I don't remember anyone stressing all of the good things that accepting Christ meant. All of the cool stuff. The stuff that gives us freedom, peace of mind, direction for our lives. We didn't get that part. Somebody, like the circumcised Jews of Jerusalem, wasn't giving it to us straight. The fact is, one doesn't have to do any of those things to be a Christian. One needs to have faith in the risen Lord. We needed Paul, like the Galatians needed Paul. I can't wait to hear what Paul has to say next.
What's strange is how powerfully this introductory text and subsequent discussion affected me. Paul was seriously upset at the outside influences that were corrupting his teachings. Paul told the Gentiles that the way to salvation was by faith, through grace, plus... well, plus nothing! It was those outside influences, namely the Jerusalem Jews, that were suggesting to the Gentiles that although Paul was a cool dude and all, he didn't quite have all the facts. One had to become fully Jewish in order to be a part of God's family. In other words, one had to follow the dietary laws, observe the sabbath and be circumcised.
"Umm, I'm not sure if I want to be a part of that, I mean..." Can't you just hear the Gentile men talking about this? Can't you imagine them running away as fast as they can? What's also strange is how I -- and my peers -- have experienced something very much similar to this.
When I was younger, all those years ago, and was struggling to find myself and figure out the world around me, my friends and I would often discuss religion. Most of the time, of course, we were defending our decision to not attend church and stay as far away from religion as we could. Often, the conversation would center around the ideas that we honestly thought made up a religious life: i.e., the things we thought we had to do to become "Christians."
Universally, in my peer group, those things included going to church early on Sunday morning, not making mistakes, following all the rules and forcing your beliefs on others. Attending church on Sunday mornings was tough. There were Saturday nights when we didn't stop partying until most Christians were already on their way to church. Not making mistakes, we thought, was impossible. Why try? Following all the rules was boring and difficult. Not a great combination for lazy teenagers. And we knew we didn't want to hear that gospel stuff from other people, so we knew we weren't cut out to impose it on anyone else. But since I have returned to the church as an adult, I find that really none of those precepts were true at all.
One does not have to attend church on Sunday morning in order to be a Christian. One can find God while sitting at home. I certainly believe that; but I also know from experience that if one really wants to follow Jesus, you need to belong and regularly attend a church. It's hard enough to get through life as a Christian with full support. I wouldn't want to fathom trying to do it alone. In fact, I would deem that as impossible. Joining a group of followers, who can relate to you, support you and teach you, is imperative.
Christianity is not about being perfect. Jesus was about that, and thank you Jesus for coming here and finding out first hand what living on this earth is like. But no human being is capable of being mistake-free. It doesn't mean we don't strive to obey God, but the reality is none of us will ever make it. By the same token, following all the rules is not what Christianity is about, either. Is it important how we live? Yes, of course. But as many of us know, we are saved by faith, through grace -- Paul's message to the Gentiles throughout his missionary journeys. Should we do good works? Of course. Should we strive to do the right thing? Absolutely. But that's the benefit of being saved. We are free to do good works in His name. It's not a requirement, however.
And about witnessing, or spreading the word. The task of witnessing is so daunting. I have heard many Christian leaders, some of which I like very much, say things like: "When we face God he'll ask two questions. Do you know me, and who did you bring with you?"
In some ways, this rings true with every Christian, and at times haunts my being to the core. I am so worried that I can't say the right thing; or lacking in confidence because I am so unworthy, etc. We have a duty to share the Gospel with as many people as possible. We have to figure out how to do this in the course of our daily lives. But I really don't think it's about beating people over the head with the Bible. I see some who believe in standing on the street corner and directly confronting people with the Gospel. That's always been troubling to me. I admire the courage to stand out in public and preach the word, but doing so in a confrontational manner just doesn't work, at least in my world. God bless those who try. And if one person is saved in this manner, I guess it's worth it. You just wonder how many others have been chased away by these methods.
My favorite pastor always goes to John, Chapter 9. The blind man who was healed was not a mature Christian. He didn't have fancy words. He wasn't particularly smart or educated. He had few experiences to draw from. He didn't have a Bible. "All I know," he said, "is once I was blind, but now I can see." We all have our own story to tell. We don't need to fear anything. It's not important what fancy words we use, how smart we sound, or how many scriptures we can quote. What matters is it's our story, no one else's; and no one can refute that or take it away. It's still not easy, but we don't have to worry about doing it well; we just need to do it from the heart. It's still the most difficult thing to do. And not doing so is weak, and sinful, but it's also forgiven, as are all of our sins.
See, that's the part that Christians didn't make us aware of in the 60s and 70s. We didn't realize that. Or the devil hid it from us, maybe. But I don't remember anyone stressing all of the good things that accepting Christ meant. All of the cool stuff. The stuff that gives us freedom, peace of mind, direction for our lives. We didn't get that part. Somebody, like the circumcised Jews of Jerusalem, wasn't giving it to us straight. The fact is, one doesn't have to do any of those things to be a Christian. One needs to have faith in the risen Lord. We needed Paul, like the Galatians needed Paul. I can't wait to hear what Paul has to say next.
20 September 2010
Addictions
This is a re-post of an entry I posted over a year ago. I wanted to post this again to put up-front-and-center my story of addiction for any new readers of my blog. I do this to re-tell a story that is central to my being. It's a story I want to tell every teenager, every adult, every child. It's not pretty, but it has a good ending.
I decided to write about something I could really relate to this time. When it comes to being an expert on a subject, for me it’s easy: addiction.
There was a story about a man who was a long-time addict. He remembered his lowest point. He was laying in a field, too drunk to get up, and too drunk to fall asleep. He just kind of went in and out of consciousness waiting for enough liquor to pass through his system that he could get up and make his way home; or at least to a bed somewhere. He remembered a bright light shining on him. When he opened his eyes, he saw the fuzzy image of a policeman shining a flashlight at him. There was trouble on the property, and a fight had broken out. But this man was so obviously wasted the cop didn’t even consider him a threat. He left the man alone and went to check on other people on the property.
It’s pretty sad when a drunk teenager is so out of it that he can’t even cause trouble. The episode stuck with the man; and the image of the policeman is clearly visible in his memory. How worse off can you be than that, he thought. It’s a question I would ask too, especially considering that man in the story is me.
That incident happened some 30 years ago or so, but it haunts me to this day. I’m not really sure why. I should have been arrested — I was underage — but I caught a break. I guess that made up for the time when I was 14 or 15 and got arrested for trying to sell marijuana when in fact I was not trying to do that and was basically in the wrong place at the wrong time. That would probably count as another low spot in my earlier life, although I honestly cannot count that incident as the result of an addiction.
I think about the children and adolescents growing up today with so many worries that they should not have to deal with. Fortunately they are educated about the dangers of alcohol and drugs and most of them do not fall for that trap. It’s one of the Devil’s greatest tools. Yeah, I know the kids can still get into a lot of trouble, but — and this is not a challenge — they couldn’t hold a candle to us in those days. We were terrible — terrible!
I wish I could tell you that it got better right after that drinking incident but it did not. I went on to develop my drinking problem even further, and I added a couple of new addictions along the way. But something happened to me that changed my life. Over a period of 20 years, I slowly got away from these habits and found more positive things to hold on to. Getting married was a big step; for when that happens it quickly hits you that life's not just about you any more. Having a child was another big step, because it wasn't just about us any more. Taking that child to church was another huge step, because it exposed us to something we had been avoiding for years.
I can tell you that throughout those years of drugs, alcohol, trouble-making, indecent behavior — despite the fact that I tried to run away from him as fast as I could — there was someone with me through the whole journey. Because as soon as I turned to look for him, God was there.
God helped me break my addiction to cigarettes, alcohol, marijuana and cocaine. He did this by helping me find the church, discover the love of His people and the love of His son, Jesus Christ.
What I wish now is that I was done with all of my addictions, but I am not. There are some things that are harder to get away from than others. These addictions are powerful, and frustrating to live with. They separate me from a true relationship with God. I know He is aware of them, and He knows what needs to be done to deal with them. I know that God will one day cure me of all addictions. That will be a glorious day.
Addictions come in all forms. Who among us can say they don’t have any addictions? I hope that I can at least say I am facing my addictions, and with God’s help I am dealing with them. I know I can do better. Help us all, Lord.
I decided to write about something I could really relate to this time. When it comes to being an expert on a subject, for me it’s easy: addiction.
There was a story about a man who was a long-time addict. He remembered his lowest point. He was laying in a field, too drunk to get up, and too drunk to fall asleep. He just kind of went in and out of consciousness waiting for enough liquor to pass through his system that he could get up and make his way home; or at least to a bed somewhere. He remembered a bright light shining on him. When he opened his eyes, he saw the fuzzy image of a policeman shining a flashlight at him. There was trouble on the property, and a fight had broken out. But this man was so obviously wasted the cop didn’t even consider him a threat. He left the man alone and went to check on other people on the property.
It’s pretty sad when a drunk teenager is so out of it that he can’t even cause trouble. The episode stuck with the man; and the image of the policeman is clearly visible in his memory. How worse off can you be than that, he thought. It’s a question I would ask too, especially considering that man in the story is me.
That incident happened some 30 years ago or so, but it haunts me to this day. I’m not really sure why. I should have been arrested — I was underage — but I caught a break. I guess that made up for the time when I was 14 or 15 and got arrested for trying to sell marijuana when in fact I was not trying to do that and was basically in the wrong place at the wrong time. That would probably count as another low spot in my earlier life, although I honestly cannot count that incident as the result of an addiction.
I think about the children and adolescents growing up today with so many worries that they should not have to deal with. Fortunately they are educated about the dangers of alcohol and drugs and most of them do not fall for that trap. It’s one of the Devil’s greatest tools. Yeah, I know the kids can still get into a lot of trouble, but — and this is not a challenge — they couldn’t hold a candle to us in those days. We were terrible — terrible!
I wish I could tell you that it got better right after that drinking incident but it did not. I went on to develop my drinking problem even further, and I added a couple of new addictions along the way. But something happened to me that changed my life. Over a period of 20 years, I slowly got away from these habits and found more positive things to hold on to. Getting married was a big step; for when that happens it quickly hits you that life's not just about you any more. Having a child was another big step, because it wasn't just about us any more. Taking that child to church was another huge step, because it exposed us to something we had been avoiding for years.
I can tell you that throughout those years of drugs, alcohol, trouble-making, indecent behavior — despite the fact that I tried to run away from him as fast as I could — there was someone with me through the whole journey. Because as soon as I turned to look for him, God was there.
God helped me break my addiction to cigarettes, alcohol, marijuana and cocaine. He did this by helping me find the church, discover the love of His people and the love of His son, Jesus Christ.
What I wish now is that I was done with all of my addictions, but I am not. There are some things that are harder to get away from than others. These addictions are powerful, and frustrating to live with. They separate me from a true relationship with God. I know He is aware of them, and He knows what needs to be done to deal with them. I know that God will one day cure me of all addictions. That will be a glorious day.
Addictions come in all forms. Who among us can say they don’t have any addictions? I hope that I can at least say I am facing my addictions, and with God’s help I am dealing with them. I know I can do better. Help us all, Lord.
13 September 2010
NFL Quickly Becoming America's Worst League
None of my friends understand why I don't watch at least two, if not three or four, football games every weekend. Here we go:
Example: Commercials. After three or four minutes of commercials, however long it is, we come back just in time to see the kickoff after the latest score. Great! What action! Next: Breaking away again for another three or four minutes of commercials. What?! Am I supposed to enjoy seeing 30 seconds of action during a 7 or 8 minute period? And college football is starting to do it too! There are way too many commercials during football games. You know what? I don't drink any more. Endless beer commercials do not amuse me. Guys getting hit in the groin do not amuse me. Although I like half-naked women, I really try not to view such things in the course of my marriage. Enough! You can show them, but I'm not going to watch. That's what the DVR is for, I guess. Or the NFL Network.
Example: Convoluted rules that don't make sense. Seriously, I've been playing football on and off, both organized and sandlot, since I was but a wee lad. Everyone, whether playing or watching, no matter their expertise, experience or intelligence, can tell the difference between a caught football or a not-caught football. We have eyes. We use them. Either the ball is caught or it is not. It should not take a rocket scientist -- nor a former director of NFL officiating -- to explain why a play was or was not a catch. The laughable comment of the day yesterday was, "according to the rule, the officials made the right call." Really? If I'm a referee then I'm resigning that day. Because if I can't officiate a normal, legitimate, reasonable game of football, then why am I out there? Change the freakin' rule. Now. Today.
Example: Challenging the play on the field. Oh my gosh, who's idea was this? "Between time outs and commercials, we're just not slowing the game down quite enough. What else can we do?" "I know, let's allow coaches to challenge the calls, then it will take at least two or three minutes to sort it all out." "Why that's brilliant!" "Thank you, sir." Honestly, this is a terrible idea and a worse precedent. If you really want to use instant replay, then make it for scores only (like the way it's used in rugby or hockey). For everything else, let the human element make the decisions (see example #2). It's the best way, tried and true. Please don't let something like this become a part of baseball. Please...
Example: Excessive celebrations. I think self-indulgent end-zone celebrations are over the top; but it's the constant celebrating after every play that really drives me crazy. You just gained a first down, that's great, but do you have to pop up and proudly signal it yourself? You tackled the guy for a loss, great, but act like you've done this before. It's like every play is the final play of the Super Bowl. Now the college kids are picking up on it and doing the same thing. Soon the high-school kids will, too. I'm all for pats on the rump and high fives, but get over yourself. You're not that great. I can say the same thing for walk-off hits in baseball, but the frequency isn't nearly as bad. Then you have the taunting, and intimidation. That stuff is ugly. And no league has players that get off on drawing attention to themselves -- on and off the field -- more than the NFL. Who wants to see all of this?
Example: Cheap shots. If I had my way, every tackle in football would have to be made between the shoulders and the hips. And you would have to use your arms to make the tackle. No more hitting the head, no more clotheslines, no more blind-side attacks, no more hitting at the knees. This is a rough sport, I get it. It's a dangerous sport, I get it. Big hits make football exciting. True, at least in part, but at the expense of the athlete's health? Big hits can still happen in a more appropriate fashion. Is someone getting hurt supposed to be entertaining? I don't want to lose my quarterback to an injury. I don't want the games biggest stars to miss games or have to retire early.
Example: Technology. The yellow line for the first down marker is not bad, I admit. But a green one for the line of scrimmage? And it's too dark most of the time, and it's distracting. Soon they'll have another line charting the progress of the ball. Enough! And don't get me started about the levitating camera just above the field getting all of those desperately needed shots from just behind the huddle. Aaargh!
Put all of these things together, and it's becoming increasingly difficult to watch an entire NFL game. It's football, and I love football, but it's the game I love, not all of this other stuff. And it's the other stuff that's grabbing more and more of the time and attention. I could tell you how this mirrors life, but that would be worthy of a "delay of game" penalty.
Example: Commercials. After three or four minutes of commercials, however long it is, we come back just in time to see the kickoff after the latest score. Great! What action! Next: Breaking away again for another three or four minutes of commercials. What?! Am I supposed to enjoy seeing 30 seconds of action during a 7 or 8 minute period? And college football is starting to do it too! There are way too many commercials during football games. You know what? I don't drink any more. Endless beer commercials do not amuse me. Guys getting hit in the groin do not amuse me. Although I like half-naked women, I really try not to view such things in the course of my marriage. Enough! You can show them, but I'm not going to watch. That's what the DVR is for, I guess. Or the NFL Network.
Example: Convoluted rules that don't make sense. Seriously, I've been playing football on and off, both organized and sandlot, since I was but a wee lad. Everyone, whether playing or watching, no matter their expertise, experience or intelligence, can tell the difference between a caught football or a not-caught football. We have eyes. We use them. Either the ball is caught or it is not. It should not take a rocket scientist -- nor a former director of NFL officiating -- to explain why a play was or was not a catch. The laughable comment of the day yesterday was, "according to the rule, the officials made the right call." Really? If I'm a referee then I'm resigning that day. Because if I can't officiate a normal, legitimate, reasonable game of football, then why am I out there? Change the freakin' rule. Now. Today.
Example: Challenging the play on the field. Oh my gosh, who's idea was this? "Between time outs and commercials, we're just not slowing the game down quite enough. What else can we do?" "I know, let's allow coaches to challenge the calls, then it will take at least two or three minutes to sort it all out." "Why that's brilliant!" "Thank you, sir." Honestly, this is a terrible idea and a worse precedent. If you really want to use instant replay, then make it for scores only (like the way it's used in rugby or hockey). For everything else, let the human element make the decisions (see example #2). It's the best way, tried and true. Please don't let something like this become a part of baseball. Please...
Example: Excessive celebrations. I think self-indulgent end-zone celebrations are over the top; but it's the constant celebrating after every play that really drives me crazy. You just gained a first down, that's great, but do you have to pop up and proudly signal it yourself? You tackled the guy for a loss, great, but act like you've done this before. It's like every play is the final play of the Super Bowl. Now the college kids are picking up on it and doing the same thing. Soon the high-school kids will, too. I'm all for pats on the rump and high fives, but get over yourself. You're not that great. I can say the same thing for walk-off hits in baseball, but the frequency isn't nearly as bad. Then you have the taunting, and intimidation. That stuff is ugly. And no league has players that get off on drawing attention to themselves -- on and off the field -- more than the NFL. Who wants to see all of this?
Example: Cheap shots. If I had my way, every tackle in football would have to be made between the shoulders and the hips. And you would have to use your arms to make the tackle. No more hitting the head, no more clotheslines, no more blind-side attacks, no more hitting at the knees. This is a rough sport, I get it. It's a dangerous sport, I get it. Big hits make football exciting. True, at least in part, but at the expense of the athlete's health? Big hits can still happen in a more appropriate fashion. Is someone getting hurt supposed to be entertaining? I don't want to lose my quarterback to an injury. I don't want the games biggest stars to miss games or have to retire early.
Example: Technology. The yellow line for the first down marker is not bad, I admit. But a green one for the line of scrimmage? And it's too dark most of the time, and it's distracting. Soon they'll have another line charting the progress of the ball. Enough! And don't get me started about the levitating camera just above the field getting all of those desperately needed shots from just behind the huddle. Aaargh!
Put all of these things together, and it's becoming increasingly difficult to watch an entire NFL game. It's football, and I love football, but it's the game I love, not all of this other stuff. And it's the other stuff that's grabbing more and more of the time and attention. I could tell you how this mirrors life, but that would be worthy of a "delay of game" penalty.
10 September 2010
Responding to the Social Agenda
I recently was directed to an article on EthicsDaily.com called, “What to Say When a Glenn Beck Believer Calls.” Here is the link. Now, look, I know Beck is a polarizing figure. And there’s no way to know what side of the debate most of you readers would come down on, so I’m not sure if I’m picking a fight or preaching to the choir. I happen to be a long-time fan of Beck’s. Way before he was on television, years and years ago I came to appreciate his point of view. I just think the guy speaks the truth. I believe he turned his life around and came to God through Jesus Christ. I could be wrong about that. I believe he is sincere. His job is way to difficult to not be. He has been too consistent, over the years, to be a charlatan. Again, one either loves or hates the guy I suppose. But I felt the need to respond to this article, because it was weak and I had seen the same lame argument a hundred times before. This movement toward social justice through government taxation scares the hell out of me, no pun intended.
Anyway, here’s my response to the author, Robert Parham. I have yet to hear back from Mr. Parham. I await his response.
Sir:
I searched for a way to comment on your article. I could find none, so I write this email. I come to you as many things I guess; a Christian, a Conservative that is becoming more Libertarian every day, and as a fan of Glenn Beck. I have been a fan of Beck's for a long time. Before he ever appeared on TV, probably for more than seven or eight years. I believe this man's heart is in the right place. It's just a feeling I've had about him for all these years.
Your article pushed Beck down as a Mormon, therefore not a reliable presenter of the truth. I am a Baptist but I consider Beck to be a legitimate Christian. I know he attends a Mormon church. But I have also heard his testimony. I believe he came to his faith through Christ. Is that not the Way? Every "Christian" is not more in tune with God than every "Mormon." There are great men and women throughout. I don't personally believe in some aspects of Mormonism, that is for sure, but Beck has never demanded -- or even hinted -- that I had to accept anything "Mormon" in order to know God or follow God. But apparently you would imply the reverse to Mr. Beck. You also diminished the relevance of Beck's fans, or "followers", implying we are all black-robed, or whatever. You take the example of one Beck supporter and apply it to every Beck supporter. Not cool at all. Here is where you show your true colors, sir. I pray every day, I attend church as often as I can, I love my God and his Son, Jesus Christ, that gave me a new life, and I read and try my best to understand the Scriptures. And I am a fan of Glenn Beck. But I don't wear black robes. How is that possible? Glenn Beck is popular because, in my opinion, he is genuine, and his fans sense that. I don't feel that from you sir, and you can go on quoting scripture all day, but you've already lost me.
I do not suppose that Beck knows the Bible better than you. I know I do not know the Bible more than you do. But I don't think that's what it's about. I do see that Beck is taking what he believes and trying to apply it to his life and effect a change in this country that is desperately needed. Someone, of courage, has to step out and do something to effect this change. Some of the change has to occur in the church; but some of it has to occur in the culture as well. There is nothing easy about what Beck is doing, either on his radio show, his TV show, or his live appearances. It's easy to sit in an office, quote scripture, and tell everyone what a good Christian you are. It's harder to present a consistent message for years and risk your life and career to apply it. I thought Beck's rally was a great thing with a great message. I admire his courage. I wish I could be that courageous in my life.
Finally, the concept of "social justice." No one, even Beck as I have heard him discuss many times, would argue against people helping the poor. If they do they are truly lost. But that's not what "social justice" means, as it is used today, sir. Much too often, it's a buzzword used toward political means, by agenda-driven people. Basically, if your money and/or focus is on the government providing, it's not about being a Christian, in my opinion. And apparently, if you don't support the right government programs, then you're just evil. If you can't see the difference in real social justice and government social justice, then there's no way you can intelligently comment on what Beck's true convictions are. I have not read your previous articles, but here's what I have observed by reading this one: All you really know how to do is talk bad about other people and quote scripture. I know a lot of people like that. They're a dime a dozen. Many of them have similar forums. I will pray for you, and pray that our nation wakes up and turns to God. Which, by the way, was the message of last weekend's rally. It's a good message.
Anyway, here’s my response to the author, Robert Parham. I have yet to hear back from Mr. Parham. I await his response.
Sir:
I searched for a way to comment on your article. I could find none, so I write this email. I come to you as many things I guess; a Christian, a Conservative that is becoming more Libertarian every day, and as a fan of Glenn Beck. I have been a fan of Beck's for a long time. Before he ever appeared on TV, probably for more than seven or eight years. I believe this man's heart is in the right place. It's just a feeling I've had about him for all these years.
Your article pushed Beck down as a Mormon, therefore not a reliable presenter of the truth. I am a Baptist but I consider Beck to be a legitimate Christian. I know he attends a Mormon church. But I have also heard his testimony. I believe he came to his faith through Christ. Is that not the Way? Every "Christian" is not more in tune with God than every "Mormon." There are great men and women throughout. I don't personally believe in some aspects of Mormonism, that is for sure, but Beck has never demanded -- or even hinted -- that I had to accept anything "Mormon" in order to know God or follow God. But apparently you would imply the reverse to Mr. Beck. You also diminished the relevance of Beck's fans, or "followers", implying we are all black-robed, or whatever. You take the example of one Beck supporter and apply it to every Beck supporter. Not cool at all. Here is where you show your true colors, sir. I pray every day, I attend church as often as I can, I love my God and his Son, Jesus Christ, that gave me a new life, and I read and try my best to understand the Scriptures. And I am a fan of Glenn Beck. But I don't wear black robes. How is that possible? Glenn Beck is popular because, in my opinion, he is genuine, and his fans sense that. I don't feel that from you sir, and you can go on quoting scripture all day, but you've already lost me.
I do not suppose that Beck knows the Bible better than you. I know I do not know the Bible more than you do. But I don't think that's what it's about. I do see that Beck is taking what he believes and trying to apply it to his life and effect a change in this country that is desperately needed. Someone, of courage, has to step out and do something to effect this change. Some of the change has to occur in the church; but some of it has to occur in the culture as well. There is nothing easy about what Beck is doing, either on his radio show, his TV show, or his live appearances. It's easy to sit in an office, quote scripture, and tell everyone what a good Christian you are. It's harder to present a consistent message for years and risk your life and career to apply it. I thought Beck's rally was a great thing with a great message. I admire his courage. I wish I could be that courageous in my life.
Finally, the concept of "social justice." No one, even Beck as I have heard him discuss many times, would argue against people helping the poor. If they do they are truly lost. But that's not what "social justice" means, as it is used today, sir. Much too often, it's a buzzword used toward political means, by agenda-driven people. Basically, if your money and/or focus is on the government providing, it's not about being a Christian, in my opinion. And apparently, if you don't support the right government programs, then you're just evil. If you can't see the difference in real social justice and government social justice, then there's no way you can intelligently comment on what Beck's true convictions are. I have not read your previous articles, but here's what I have observed by reading this one: All you really know how to do is talk bad about other people and quote scripture. I know a lot of people like that. They're a dime a dozen. Many of them have similar forums. I will pray for you, and pray that our nation wakes up and turns to God. Which, by the way, was the message of last weekend's rally. It's a good message.
Been a Long Time
Hello all, after a much-too-long absence. It’s good to be back in front of the keyboard.
I do wish to draw your attention to the badge at left; I am now proudly a member of HighCalling Blogs, and it is my wish to incorporate more Scriptural themes into my writings. I joined HighCalling for at least two reasons: I want more people to read my blog; and hopefully being in this community will afford that. Plus, I want to read more blogs from people that are trying to apply Scripture into their lives and are passionate about spreading their ideas. This website was recommended to me by a current member; and I'm very glad to be a part of it.
I find that far too many writers like to start with a thesis and use the Bible to prove their point. That is easy to do. As a historian, and a writer of numerous theses, I can tell you that all or most research papers are done this same way. The author has an idea, or maybe a hypothesis, and begins exploring ways to prove his point. Ninety-nine percent of the time, this can be done with moderate research. Sometimes it’s more difficult, sometimes less. But this is still the approach. So it is, far too often, for the Christian writer with an opinion.
I plan to do things a little backwards. I will read a passage that I find interesting, then try to discover what it means for me and our culture. I will try to let the Scripture lead me to a conclusion, instead of the other way around. We’ll see how well that works.
I will also continue to spout off, which is my favorite thing to do. By spouting off I mean things not of Scripture, but of opinion, that I wish to state for the record whether I can prove it or not. But as you know, I often am asking for proof from others, rather than making claims that I cannot back up.
To those of you that may be reading my blog for the first time, I would like to direct your attention to the archives section. Although in some ways dated, I am very proud of these earlier essays about Economics and Culture; and I invite all to browse through those at your leisure.
I do not take cheap shots. I do not do drive-bys. I am by nature conservative; yet I find myself becoming more Libertarian every day. I am a registered Independent, and I do not play the political party games. I continue to search for the truth in everything.
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