Matthew 26
47 While he was still speaking, Judas, one of the Twelve, arrived. With him was a large crowd armed with swords and clubs, sent from the chief priests and the elders of the people.
48 Now the betrayer had arranged a signal with them: "The one I kiss is the man; arrest him."
49 Going at once to Jesus, Judas said, "Greetings, Rabbi!" and kissed him.
50 Jesus replied, "Friend, do what you came for." Then the men stepped forward, seized Jesus and arrested him.
51 With that, one of Jesus' companions reached for his sword, drew it out and struck the servant of the high priest, cutting off his ear.
52 "Put your sword back in its place," Jesus said to him, "for all who draw the sword will die by the sword.
53 Do you think I cannot call on my Father, and he will at once put at my disposal more than twelve legions of angels?
54 But how then would the Scriptures be fulfilled that say it must happen in this way?"
55 At that time Jesus said to the crowd, "Am I leading a rebellion, that you have come out with swords and clubs to capture me? Every day I sat in the temple courts teaching, and you did not arrest me.
56 But this has all taken place that the writings of the prophets might be fulfilled." Then all the disciples deserted him and fled.
It struck me; what does "arrested" mean? To arrest also means "to cause to stop". This is not what happened. Jesus could have stopped all of it (I'm sure 12 legions of angels would have been able to 'arrest' the situation). But Jesus was willing to do His Father's will.
The writings of the prophets would be fulfilled. Thank you Jesus!
Monday, December 17, 2007
The Ant and the Elephant
I just finished reading this book by Vince Poscente, (the ant and the ELEPHANT).
For me, it was a powerful analogy for how my conscious and sub-conscious is designed. It's definitely time to harness the power of my own elephant.
This was another book recommended to me by the leadership development program I am a part of.
Ask yourself - if it takes years to realize my purpose, is it worth it?
I think so.
For me, it was a powerful analogy for how my conscious and sub-conscious is designed. It's definitely time to harness the power of my own elephant.
This was another book recommended to me by the leadership development program I am a part of.
Ask yourself - if it takes years to realize my purpose, is it worth it?
I think so.
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
Gethsemane
Matthew 26
36 Then Jesus went with his disciples to a place called Gethsemane, and he said to them, "Sit here while I go over there and pray."
37 He took Peter and the two sons of Zebedee along with him, and he began to be sorrowful and troubled.
38 Then he said to them, "My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death. Stay here and keep watch with me."
39 Going a little farther, he fell with his face to the ground and prayed, "My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will."
40 Then he returned to his disciples and found them sleeping. "Could you men not keep watch with me for one hour?" he asked Peter.
41 "Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the body is weak."
42 He went away a second time and prayed, "My Father, if it is not possible for this cup to be taken away unless I drink it, may your will be done."
43 When he came back, he again found them sleeping, because their eyes were heavy.
44 So he left them and went away once more and prayed the third time, saying the same thing.
45 Then he returned to the disciples and said to them, "Are you still sleeping and resting? Look, the hour is near, and the Son of Man is betrayed into the hands of sinners.
46 Rise, let us go! Here comes my betrayer!"
I'm still amazed how Jesus knew exactly what was happening, and still kept going. There were no surprises. He didn't want it to happen, but He accepted His Fathers' will.
No one stood with Him, no one prayed and watched with Him. No one else understood what was happening.
36 Then Jesus went with his disciples to a place called Gethsemane, and he said to them, "Sit here while I go over there and pray."
37 He took Peter and the two sons of Zebedee along with him, and he began to be sorrowful and troubled.
38 Then he said to them, "My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death. Stay here and keep watch with me."
39 Going a little farther, he fell with his face to the ground and prayed, "My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will."
40 Then he returned to his disciples and found them sleeping. "Could you men not keep watch with me for one hour?" he asked Peter.
41 "Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the body is weak."
42 He went away a second time and prayed, "My Father, if it is not possible for this cup to be taken away unless I drink it, may your will be done."
43 When he came back, he again found them sleeping, because their eyes were heavy.
44 So he left them and went away once more and prayed the third time, saying the same thing.
45 Then he returned to the disciples and said to them, "Are you still sleeping and resting? Look, the hour is near, and the Son of Man is betrayed into the hands of sinners.
46 Rise, let us go! Here comes my betrayer!"
I'm still amazed how Jesus knew exactly what was happening, and still kept going. There were no surprises. He didn't want it to happen, but He accepted His Fathers' will.
No one stood with Him, no one prayed and watched with Him. No one else understood what was happening.
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
Denial
Matthew 26 continued
Jesus Predicts Peter's Denial
31 Then Jesus told them, "This very night you will all fall away on account of me, for it is written:" 'I will strike the shepherd, and the sheep of the flock will be scattered.'
32 But after I have risen, I will go ahead of you into Galilee."
33 Peter replied, "Even if all fall away on account of you, I never will."
34 "I tell you the truth," Jesus answered, "this very night, before the rooster crows, you will disown me three times."
35 But Peter declared, "Even if I have to die with you, I will never disown you." And all the other disciples said the same.
And all the other disciples said the same. How quickly we pledge our allegiance. How quickly we fall away. There is great hope though; "after I have risen..."
Jesus is saying; "listen to my statements - you will disown me, I will rise" We can continue to count on His words today.
Jesus Predicts Peter's Denial
31 Then Jesus told them, "This very night you will all fall away on account of me, for it is written:" 'I will strike the shepherd, and the sheep of the flock will be scattered.'
32 But after I have risen, I will go ahead of you into Galilee."
33 Peter replied, "Even if all fall away on account of you, I never will."
34 "I tell you the truth," Jesus answered, "this very night, before the rooster crows, you will disown me three times."
35 But Peter declared, "Even if I have to die with you, I will never disown you." And all the other disciples said the same.
And all the other disciples said the same. How quickly we pledge our allegiance. How quickly we fall away. There is great hope though; "after I have risen..."
Jesus is saying; "listen to my statements - you will disown me, I will rise" We can continue to count on His words today.
Wednesday, December 5, 2007
Lord's Supper
During our Walk to Emmaus, the Lord's Supper took on a much greater meaning.
John 15:13
Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends.
The Lord's Supper (Matthew 26)
17 On the first day of the Feast of Unleavened Bread, the disciples came to Jesus and asked, "Where do you want us to make preparations for you to eat the Passover?"
18 He replied, "Go into the city to a certain man and tell him, 'The Teacher says: My appointed time is near. I am going to celebrate the Passover with my disciples at your house.' "
19 So the disciples did as Jesus had directed them and prepared the Passover.
20 When evening came, Jesus was reclining at the table with the Twelve.
21 And while they were eating, he said, "I tell you the truth, one of you will betray me."
22 They were very sad and began to say to him one after the other, "Surely not I, Lord?"
23 Jesus replied, "The one who has dipped his hand into the bowl with me will betray me.
24 The Son of Man will go just as it is written about him. But woe to that man who betrays the Son of Man! It would be better for him if he had not been born."
25 Then Judas, the one who would betray him, said, "Surely not I, Rabbi?" Jesus answered, "Yes, it is you."
26 While they were eating, Jesus took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to his disciples, saying, "Take and eat; this is my body."
27 Then he took the cup, gave thanks and offered it to them, saying, "Drink from it, all of you.
28 This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.
29 I tell you, I will not drink of this fruit of the vine from now on until that day when I drink it anew with you in my Father's kingdom."
30 When they had sung a hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives.
Jesus took the Passover meal and revealed its' full meaning.
Jesus' body and His blood. Broken. Shed. For me, and for you.
John 15:13
Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends.
The Lord's Supper (Matthew 26)
17 On the first day of the Feast of Unleavened Bread, the disciples came to Jesus and asked, "Where do you want us to make preparations for you to eat the Passover?"
18 He replied, "Go into the city to a certain man and tell him, 'The Teacher says: My appointed time is near. I am going to celebrate the Passover with my disciples at your house.' "
19 So the disciples did as Jesus had directed them and prepared the Passover.
20 When evening came, Jesus was reclining at the table with the Twelve.
21 And while they were eating, he said, "I tell you the truth, one of you will betray me."
22 They were very sad and began to say to him one after the other, "Surely not I, Lord?"
23 Jesus replied, "The one who has dipped his hand into the bowl with me will betray me.
24 The Son of Man will go just as it is written about him. But woe to that man who betrays the Son of Man! It would be better for him if he had not been born."
25 Then Judas, the one who would betray him, said, "Surely not I, Rabbi?" Jesus answered, "Yes, it is you."
26 While they were eating, Jesus took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to his disciples, saying, "Take and eat; this is my body."
27 Then he took the cup, gave thanks and offered it to them, saying, "Drink from it, all of you.
28 This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.
29 I tell you, I will not drink of this fruit of the vine from now on until that day when I drink it anew with you in my Father's kingdom."
30 When they had sung a hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives.
Jesus took the Passover meal and revealed its' full meaning.
Jesus' body and His blood. Broken. Shed. For me, and for you.
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
The Passion
As Christmas approaches, I hear again; "Jesus is the reason for the season", and I'm reminded of His ultimate purpose.
Matthew 26 (NIV)
The Plot Against Jesus
1 When Jesus had finished saying all these things, he said to his disciples,
2 "As you know, the Passover is two days away—and the Son of Man will be handed over to be crucified."
3 Then the chief priests and the elders of the people assembled in the palace of the high priest, whose name was Caiaphas,
4 and they plotted to arrest Jesus in some sly way and kill him.
5 "But not during the Feast," they said, "or there may be a riot among the people."
When Jesus had finished saying all these things. Things like;
25:40 "The King will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.'
Jesus knew the timing of his betrayal and crucifixion. The chief priests did not determine the timing.
We watched The Passion last night. We were suprised how long it had been since we watched it last. Somehow, I was afraid to watch again - like it would be too painful.
This was our third time. The first time, in the theater - I was deeply affected. Afterwards, I couldn't speak. The second time, at home - it was still hard to watch, and to keep from crying. Last night, we prayed before watching. I know that the movie is only an interpretation of the events. Somehow, even though it was hard to watch - I didn't cry. God has let me know that it's ok to accept His grace. I saw again the punishment I deserve, being paid for by Jesus. Tears, no. Not this time. A deep thankfulness, yes. Always.
Jesus knew what was coming. He knew how hard it would be. He told his disciples - it's going to happen!
Judas Agrees to Betray Jesus
14 Then one of the Twelve—the one called Judas Iscariot—went to the chief priests
15 and asked, "What are you willing to give me if I hand him over to you?" So they counted out for him thirty silver coins.
16 From then on Judas watched for an opportunity to hand him over.
Judas watched for an opportunity. Again, the timing was not up to Judas.
Matthew 26 (NIV)
The Plot Against Jesus
1 When Jesus had finished saying all these things, he said to his disciples,
2 "As you know, the Passover is two days away—and the Son of Man will be handed over to be crucified."
3 Then the chief priests and the elders of the people assembled in the palace of the high priest, whose name was Caiaphas,
4 and they plotted to arrest Jesus in some sly way and kill him.
5 "But not during the Feast," they said, "or there may be a riot among the people."
When Jesus had finished saying all these things. Things like;
25:40 "The King will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.'
Jesus knew the timing of his betrayal and crucifixion. The chief priests did not determine the timing.
We watched The Passion last night. We were suprised how long it had been since we watched it last. Somehow, I was afraid to watch again - like it would be too painful.
This was our third time. The first time, in the theater - I was deeply affected. Afterwards, I couldn't speak. The second time, at home - it was still hard to watch, and to keep from crying. Last night, we prayed before watching. I know that the movie is only an interpretation of the events. Somehow, even though it was hard to watch - I didn't cry. God has let me know that it's ok to accept His grace. I saw again the punishment I deserve, being paid for by Jesus. Tears, no. Not this time. A deep thankfulness, yes. Always.
Jesus knew what was coming. He knew how hard it would be. He told his disciples - it's going to happen!
Judas Agrees to Betray Jesus
14 Then one of the Twelve—the one called Judas Iscariot—went to the chief priests
15 and asked, "What are you willing to give me if I hand him over to you?" So they counted out for him thirty silver coins.
16 From then on Judas watched for an opportunity to hand him over.
Judas watched for an opportunity. Again, the timing was not up to Judas.
Thursday, November 15, 2007
Thought Processes
I think, at some level - we all suffer from A.D.D. (at least I do).
I was going to add another blog, with a focus on what I'm learning. So it would have been something like "rvglearns". It was to be something to keep MY attention. Blogging still isn't a regular practice for me.
Now, here's where it gets to my funny thought processes - I thought to go along with "rvgspeaks", it should be "rvgsits" (and learns - by reading and listening), then I thought that I would round out the set with "rvgrollsover" (but - that's just not going to happen!), finishing off with "rvg_goodboy".
I'd say that one still applies - worded differently. I'm definitely looking for "good boy", but I'll use better words; "well done, good and faithful servant" (come and share your master's happiness!!)
I really do need to put "thoughts to paper" to know what I'm thinking.
I was going to add another blog, with a focus on what I'm learning. So it would have been something like "rvglearns". It was to be something to keep MY attention. Blogging still isn't a regular practice for me.
Now, here's where it gets to my funny thought processes - I thought to go along with "rvgspeaks", it should be "rvgsits" (and learns - by reading and listening), then I thought that I would round out the set with "rvgrollsover" (but - that's just not going to happen!), finishing off with "rvg_goodboy".
I'd say that one still applies - worded differently. I'm definitely looking for "good boy", but I'll use better words; "well done, good and faithful servant" (come and share your master's happiness!!)
I really do need to put "thoughts to paper" to know what I'm thinking.
Saturday, November 10, 2007
J is on her walk
I was going to re-word this to post it, but I think it might be best to just use it word-for-word.
J is on her walk this weekend. I'll get to see her tonight at the candlelight service, and pick her up tomorrow. I can't wait for her to tell me how this weekend impacted her, and to re-experience it all with her as she tells me.
When I came back from my walk, I sent this email to a set of special friends. J won't see it until she gets back, so I can post it now;
Emmaus thoughts
I'm going to post these thoughts on my blog, but I don't want J to see it (yet). I know that there will be more to say after J's walk also, as we share our feelings with each other (I can't wait).
Growing up, I learned to suppress my feelings. I haven't un-learned that yet. So, while I might not manifest my feelings in a way that others can see, they are there.
There was so much I wanted to say during the close, but I couldn't collect all my thoughts. I wanted to say that I grew up feeling like I didn't deserve Gods' love, and that I pushed Him away. I knew that Jesus had given His life to save the world, but I don't know how much I let myself be a part of that. I still have trouble accepting gifts.
I think I might have been hiding behind the podium when I held up the agape gift from you all, but I wanted to say (now) how much it meant to me to have your names hanging with my name badge for the weekend.
I've kept most of the agape gifts hidden from J, we'll look at them together later. I was wearing the cross when I came home, and J noticed it. I let her believe that it was just one of the things I got this weekend (you know, no big deal) - but when we were told that our sponsors had held the crosses and prayed for us the night before, I actually gasped (wow, how demonstrative, eh?). I'm having trouble even now just typing this.
Your agape gift was the most meaningful to me for most of the weekend, but when I was given the cross .... I still don't know how to describe it. As others were being given their cross, I had my hand around mine. I don't know how to say how much I appreciate you all for how you demonstrated Gods' love to me.
I'm going to send this now, because my thoughts still are definitely not all collected. I just wanted you all to know how much I appreciate you guys for getting me there, and for being an active part of my walk.
God loves you, and so do I!
In Christ,
R
If you would like to be reminded of God's love for you, I can think of no better way than to go on a "Walk to Emmaus".
J is on her walk this weekend. I'll get to see her tonight at the candlelight service, and pick her up tomorrow. I can't wait for her to tell me how this weekend impacted her, and to re-experience it all with her as she tells me.
When I came back from my walk, I sent this email to a set of special friends. J won't see it until she gets back, so I can post it now;
Emmaus thoughts
I'm going to post these thoughts on my blog, but I don't want J to see it (yet). I know that there will be more to say after J's walk also, as we share our feelings with each other (I can't wait).
Growing up, I learned to suppress my feelings. I haven't un-learned that yet. So, while I might not manifest my feelings in a way that others can see, they are there.
There was so much I wanted to say during the close, but I couldn't collect all my thoughts. I wanted to say that I grew up feeling like I didn't deserve Gods' love, and that I pushed Him away. I knew that Jesus had given His life to save the world, but I don't know how much I let myself be a part of that. I still have trouble accepting gifts.
I think I might have been hiding behind the podium when I held up the agape gift from you all, but I wanted to say (now) how much it meant to me to have your names hanging with my name badge for the weekend.
I've kept most of the agape gifts hidden from J, we'll look at them together later. I was wearing the cross when I came home, and J noticed it. I let her believe that it was just one of the things I got this weekend (you know, no big deal) - but when we were told that our sponsors had held the crosses and prayed for us the night before, I actually gasped (wow, how demonstrative, eh?). I'm having trouble even now just typing this.
Your agape gift was the most meaningful to me for most of the weekend, but when I was given the cross .... I still don't know how to describe it. As others were being given their cross, I had my hand around mine. I don't know how to say how much I appreciate you all for how you demonstrated Gods' love to me.
I'm going to send this now, because my thoughts still are definitely not all collected. I just wanted you all to know how much I appreciate you guys for getting me there, and for being an active part of my walk.
God loves you, and so do I!
In Christ,
R
If you would like to be reminded of God's love for you, I can think of no better way than to go on a "Walk to Emmaus".
Leadership (recognized)
Check out the Business tab here.
It's great to know that number 1 is written by someone I've met!
Look at the company it's in;
Good to Great - Jim Collins (I still have to read that one!)
Who Moved My Cheese - Spencer Johnson
7 Habits of Highly Effective People - Stephen Covey
Alan Greenspan
Donald Trump
It's great to know that number 1 is written by someone I've met!
Look at the company it's in;
Good to Great - Jim Collins (I still have to read that one!)
Who Moved My Cheese - Spencer Johnson
7 Habits of Highly Effective People - Stephen Covey
Alan Greenspan
Donald Trump
Monday, November 5, 2007
Personal Mission Statement
I haven't got it written completely the way I want it, but the fundamentals are here.
Found the old resume
I think it says a lot less about me than I've already said in this blog, but I did find my old resume, so I thought I would just post it.
Monday, October 29, 2007
Emmaus - first impressions
If you want to know that God loves you, there could be no better way I know of than to participate in a Walk to Emmaus.
I'm sure I'll have more thoughts on this. It takes me a long time to 'process' my thoughts.
Thank you D&L for introducing us to Emmaus. Thank you V&A for encouraging me and supporting me to get there. Thank you C&K and D&T for being there also. Thank you BJ for sharing the weekend with me.
God loves you all, and so do I!
I'm sure I'll have more thoughts on this. It takes me a long time to 'process' my thoughts.
Thank you D&L for introducing us to Emmaus. Thank you V&A for encouraging me and supporting me to get there. Thank you C&K and D&T for being there also. Thank you BJ for sharing the weekend with me.
God loves you all, and so do I!
Monday, October 22, 2007
Great friends
I spent the weekend with our great friends, C&K. J had to work, and couldn't make it (we all missed you).
I am extremely blessed to have friends like C&K. They are true servant leaders, and excellent role models.
I would say that C and I are great friends, not because of any great action I've taken, but because C is such a good-finder. Somehow, he sees something good in every one, including me.
Thank you C&K, for being such good friends to J and I!
I am extremely blessed to have friends like C&K. They are true servant leaders, and excellent role models.
I would say that C and I are great friends, not because of any great action I've taken, but because C is such a good-finder. Somehow, he sees something good in every one, including me.
Thank you C&K, for being such good friends to J and I!
Thursday, October 18, 2007
Happy Birthday to KB!!
I know, I know, that's not her initials.
It's a nickname.
She'll be home soon, and I can celebrate and let her know how much I love and appreciate her!
It's a nickname.
She'll be home soon, and I can celebrate and let her know how much I love and appreciate her!
Current assignment
One of our first impressions when moving to Michigan was "these people sure are friendly". It was very different from the 'cocoonishness' that Canadians were falling prey to. I know my pre-conceived notions of Americans were blown away; pride is not arrogance. Where Canadians are apathetic, Americans are proud of their country. It's still one of the only places in the world where people are dying (literally) to get in.
The first year in MI was a whirlwind of changes. I worked out of 4 offices over that first year, landing at the last one and staying there for a long time (right until today, in fact).
I settled back in to Notes development.
Geeky stuff I've enjoyed; recommending a replica server based on the users' IP address (very important for mobile users), document authorizations by clicking a mailto: link in email, using a 'design elements' view to move only updated database elements, using Notes Nomad and passthru for 'anywhere' Notes access.
I spend more and more of my time interacting using the computer. I hardly have need for a phone anymore. I'm really at the point where I could do my job from any location. I wonder when I should have my boss read this :-)
Two years ago, we decided it was time to put the family back in Canada. My status in the U.S. never became anything permanent, the kids were unable to work at any 'real' job, etc. I've been doing the cross-border commute. It's not actually as bad as everyone thinks, it's just funny to ask the U.S. government for permission to go to work every morning. Just like every other group of Americans, they're mostly very friendly people at the border. They have a very important, stressful job to do, and they do it well.
Our time in MI was a wonderful experience, and we wouldn't have wanted it to turn out any other way. It led to us meeting C&K, but that's a story for later.
The first year in MI was a whirlwind of changes. I worked out of 4 offices over that first year, landing at the last one and staying there for a long time (right until today, in fact).
I settled back in to Notes development.
Geeky stuff I've enjoyed; recommending a replica server based on the users' IP address (very important for mobile users), document authorizations by clicking a mailto: link in email, using a 'design elements' view to move only updated database elements, using Notes Nomad and passthru for 'anywhere' Notes access.
I spend more and more of my time interacting using the computer. I hardly have need for a phone anymore. I'm really at the point where I could do my job from any location. I wonder when I should have my boss read this :-)
Two years ago, we decided it was time to put the family back in Canada. My status in the U.S. never became anything permanent, the kids were unable to work at any 'real' job, etc. I've been doing the cross-border commute. It's not actually as bad as everyone thinks, it's just funny to ask the U.S. government for permission to go to work every morning. Just like every other group of Americans, they're mostly very friendly people at the border. They have a very important, stressful job to do, and they do it well.
Our time in MI was a wonderful experience, and we wouldn't have wanted it to turn out any other way. It led to us meeting C&K, but that's a story for later.
Thursday, October 11, 2007
Third time's the charm? (job three)
The power of the network kicked in again. When I made myself available for new employment, and contacted a good friend about it, her efforts lined me up with two interviews. I say interview, but really - based on a good recommendation, I wasn't really 'interviewed'. I found myself in the rare situation of having two offers and deciding which one to take. When a good person recommends you, all you have to do for the interview is show up (and not goof up).
I was called the Continuous Improvement Coordinator. The improvement aspect was wonderful, it was only change that people resisted (sorry, couldn't resist that). The company had wanted someone who would come in and kick some butt, and they found out that wasn't me. You know you're being watched over when the company has good enough reason to let you go, but they find a place for you instead. I was re-assigned to the IT department, and oversaw the procurement and implementation of a quality management package. We decided on a package built on Lotus Notes. It was my first exposure to Notes.
We went from running internal-only email (cc:Mail), to piloting Notes mail and adding 6 'shared' internet mail addresses, to rolling out internet email access. EMail (before the advent of spam - sorry, couldn't resist that either) was the 'must have' application.
Our computers suddenly became indispensable. We used 'out of the box' thinking to implement backup strategies for our Domino server, and incorporated part number updates from our ERP system to support Notes applications.
The internet became a powerful tool for searching, including job searches. I discovered a job at a Christian non-profit organization in Michigan and, on a whim, applied to it. I was surprised when they responded positively. My wife and I went for the interview, and they made a job offer that I accepted (sort of). You may be remembering an earlier post that stated my first job was the last time I got a job based on an interview with a stranger. Well, it's still true. I accepted the job. I went to the border to apply for a work permit. I was refused.
I had no experience or expertise in obtaining a work permit, and neither did the organization. The job offer died on the vine. We had thrown our hearts into Michigan, we thought God wanted us there, and the whole thing fizzled. The ordeal had lasted nearly four months.
I shut off all notifications for jobs in the U.S., and I told myself I was going to be happy where I was for a while.
While all of this was going on, I had been unavailable for a lead role in an Easter musical at church. I became available, took the part, had a blast, and really stepped out of my comfort zone.
A month after Easter, I got a call from a former co-worker who was now working in Michigan. Less than four months after that call, we were 'out of Dodge' and moved in to our house in MI. When God clears the way, things move fast.
I learned that I could want something to happen real bad, and I could try very hard to make it happen, but God would still implement His better plan.
I was called the Continuous Improvement Coordinator. The improvement aspect was wonderful, it was only change that people resisted (sorry, couldn't resist that). The company had wanted someone who would come in and kick some butt, and they found out that wasn't me. You know you're being watched over when the company has good enough reason to let you go, but they find a place for you instead. I was re-assigned to the IT department, and oversaw the procurement and implementation of a quality management package. We decided on a package built on Lotus Notes. It was my first exposure to Notes.
We went from running internal-only email (cc:Mail), to piloting Notes mail and adding 6 'shared' internet mail addresses, to rolling out internet email access. EMail (before the advent of spam - sorry, couldn't resist that either) was the 'must have' application.
Our computers suddenly became indispensable. We used 'out of the box' thinking to implement backup strategies for our Domino server, and incorporated part number updates from our ERP system to support Notes applications.
The internet became a powerful tool for searching, including job searches. I discovered a job at a Christian non-profit organization in Michigan and, on a whim, applied to it. I was surprised when they responded positively. My wife and I went for the interview, and they made a job offer that I accepted (sort of). You may be remembering an earlier post that stated my first job was the last time I got a job based on an interview with a stranger. Well, it's still true. I accepted the job. I went to the border to apply for a work permit. I was refused.
I had no experience or expertise in obtaining a work permit, and neither did the organization. The job offer died on the vine. We had thrown our hearts into Michigan, we thought God wanted us there, and the whole thing fizzled. The ordeal had lasted nearly four months.
I shut off all notifications for jobs in the U.S., and I told myself I was going to be happy where I was for a while.
While all of this was going on, I had been unavailable for a lead role in an Easter musical at church. I became available, took the part, had a blast, and really stepped out of my comfort zone.
A month after Easter, I got a call from a former co-worker who was now working in Michigan. Less than four months after that call, we were 'out of Dodge' and moved in to our house in MI. When God clears the way, things move fast.
I learned that I could want something to happen real bad, and I could try very hard to make it happen, but God would still implement His better plan.
Give someone their life back
That's the beauty of giving blood
(Canadian Blood Services)
I'm scheduled to go tonight.
You should go too.
It's actually one of the easiest things I can do to try to make a difference in this world.
(Canadian Blood Services)
I'm scheduled to go tonight.
You should go too.
It's actually one of the easiest things I can do to try to make a difference in this world.
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
Job two
My wife agreed to move with me again, only a few months after the last move, and with our first child in tow.
I remember being very excited about being part of a new startup. I had the freedom to work, from the quality side, in the complete manufacturing process. I loved taking new people on a plant tour when they started, and being able to describe the individual production steps and quality issues throughout the complete production process.
I showed a knack for dealing with computers, and when the computer support person in the main office went on maternity leave, I filled in. I picked up a project for purchasing and tool crib inventory while I was at it, and stuck with that for the duration. It was coded in (raise your hands if you've ever heard of this); Advanced Revelation. [wow - side note; I just went to their web site and it's done in Domino - cool coincidence]
The consultant helping me with the implementation said one day that he could create an email function in AR, he just didn't have a client willing to pay for it. Well, if it could be done, then .... I was going to try. A while later, we had a rudimentary email application. I loved being able to go to someone's desk, make the changes they requested, and leave their desk knowing that I had helped to make them more productive.
I learned that I enjoyed making someone else's day easier and more productive, more than I enjoyed making my own day easier.
I stopped being involved in the manufacturing side of the business, and had many days go by where I didn't even touch or see the product we made. I remember walking in to the office and asking the receptionist; "we make wheels here, right?". The information age was starting for me.
The town we were living in was wonderful, my commute was only 3 km (many days I even walked to work, left a car at the plant, and drove home for lunch with my wife). I enjoyed my work, and ... I got the feeling that I needed to move on before I started 'settling' and getting too comfortable. We had been there for seven years, and I felt that if I stayed any longer, I would start making excuses about why I could never leave. In hindsight, it was a very good move; the company was sold a few years later and every one of the remaining original employees was invited to find other employment. Hearing that news, it felt like I had dodged another bullet.
I remember being very excited about being part of a new startup. I had the freedom to work, from the quality side, in the complete manufacturing process. I loved taking new people on a plant tour when they started, and being able to describe the individual production steps and quality issues throughout the complete production process.
I showed a knack for dealing with computers, and when the computer support person in the main office went on maternity leave, I filled in. I picked up a project for purchasing and tool crib inventory while I was at it, and stuck with that for the duration. It was coded in (raise your hands if you've ever heard of this); Advanced Revelation. [wow - side note; I just went to their web site and it's done in Domino - cool coincidence]
The consultant helping me with the implementation said one day that he could create an email function in AR, he just didn't have a client willing to pay for it. Well, if it could be done, then .... I was going to try. A while later, we had a rudimentary email application. I loved being able to go to someone's desk, make the changes they requested, and leave their desk knowing that I had helped to make them more productive.
I learned that I enjoyed making someone else's day easier and more productive, more than I enjoyed making my own day easier.
I stopped being involved in the manufacturing side of the business, and had many days go by where I didn't even touch or see the product we made. I remember walking in to the office and asking the receptionist; "we make wheels here, right?". The information age was starting for me.
The town we were living in was wonderful, my commute was only 3 km (many days I even walked to work, left a car at the plant, and drove home for lunch with my wife). I enjoyed my work, and ... I got the feeling that I needed to move on before I started 'settling' and getting too comfortable. We had been there for seven years, and I felt that if I stayed any longer, I would start making excuses about why I could never leave. In hindsight, it was a very good move; the company was sold a few years later and every one of the remaining original employees was invited to find other employment. Hearing that news, it felt like I had dodged another bullet.
Resume part two, the first 'real' job
Assuming that post-university employment qualifies as a real job, I'll talk about my first one.
I suppose I made my career-defining decision based on who was willing to hire me. I packed up my wife, and moved her for the second time. This is where I realized that my education was really just beginning. I learned the details about Quality Management. It all seems so long ago, but there was a day when I understood what SPC, TQE, Q1, TFE, etc. stood for, what they meant, and why they were important. It's not that they're no longer important, it's just that I haven't practiced any of it for so long.
Computers were becoming a big part of working life, but I started out not having a computer assigned to me and the computers we used were not connected to each other. Communication was still paper memos and telephone calls. It feels very strange to look back this far; we didn't even have voice mail, let alone email.
My first job out of university, and it was actually the last time I was employed by someone who didn't know me before the first interview.
I didn't stay very long at the first company. My boss had moved on to a better opportunity, and I asked him if there would be a place for me there as well. I was happy when he said yes, and it was difficult to wait for 5 months until the project was far along enough for there to be a place for me.
I learned the power of a personal network, and what 'character reference' really meant. I'll always appreciate the people I worked with on that first job. Getting back to SPC and statistics, etc. - I learned that it takes measurement to be able to improve.
Moving on from there was a good move; the plant closed a few years later.
I suppose I made my career-defining decision based on who was willing to hire me. I packed up my wife, and moved her for the second time. This is where I realized that my education was really just beginning. I learned the details about Quality Management. It all seems so long ago, but there was a day when I understood what SPC, TQE, Q1, TFE, etc. stood for, what they meant, and why they were important. It's not that they're no longer important, it's just that I haven't practiced any of it for so long.
Computers were becoming a big part of working life, but I started out not having a computer assigned to me and the computers we used were not connected to each other. Communication was still paper memos and telephone calls. It feels very strange to look back this far; we didn't even have voice mail, let alone email.
My first job out of university, and it was actually the last time I was employed by someone who didn't know me before the first interview.
I didn't stay very long at the first company. My boss had moved on to a better opportunity, and I asked him if there would be a place for me there as well. I was happy when he said yes, and it was difficult to wait for 5 months until the project was far along enough for there to be a place for me.
I learned the power of a personal network, and what 'character reference' really meant. I'll always appreciate the people I worked with on that first job. Getting back to SPC and statistics, etc. - I learned that it takes measurement to be able to improve.
Moving on from there was a good move; the plant closed a few years later.
Friday, October 5, 2007
Resumé - part one, RVG's education
To say I want to be unconventional would be understating my goals here. See an earlier post quoting Enlightened Leadership. The resumé model is broken, and needs updating (a total demolition and re-building).
My formal, in-class, "recognized by a piece of paper" education started in the fall of '79 (yes - I know - that's a long, long time ago) and "ended" in '86. So, 1986 would be about the time that my real education began. I'll cover that in subsequent posts.
Now, if you'll allow me, I'll go one step back. I finished high school (Grade 12) in three years. I had a scheduling conflict one semester, and the options I took led to discovering that I could (potentially) get high school done a year early. Grade 13 was a real eye-opener for me, and that grade ended up taking a year and a half to get done satisfactorily. I learned that I wasn't the "hot shot" that I thought I was.
On to university. I took the humbling process that began in grade 13 and continued it. I really had no idea how I was ever going to graduate, and even started investigating alternatives. I found two guys to work with, and that made all the difference. My "graduating" was really a team effort. I learned that I worked better as part of a team, and that the results of team effort was greater than either of the team members could have accomplished on their own. I also learned to keep going. I had two strikes against me, and couldn't afford a third (I would have been invited to find a learning institution more suited to my abilities, if you get my drift). The stress of this was always there. I even had a dream after graduation that I hadn't really gotten it done.
The biggest lesson I learned though was; how to learn.
I had started my lifelong learning journey. Gandhi was definitely right when he said; "Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever."
What's the value of it all?
Piece of paper: worthless.
The doors the paper opens: valuable.
Learning to learn: priceless.
My formal, in-class, "recognized by a piece of paper" education started in the fall of '79 (yes - I know - that's a long, long time ago) and "ended" in '86. So, 1986 would be about the time that my real education began. I'll cover that in subsequent posts.
Now, if you'll allow me, I'll go one step back. I finished high school (Grade 12) in three years. I had a scheduling conflict one semester, and the options I took led to discovering that I could (potentially) get high school done a year early. Grade 13 was a real eye-opener for me, and that grade ended up taking a year and a half to get done satisfactorily. I learned that I wasn't the "hot shot" that I thought I was.
On to university. I took the humbling process that began in grade 13 and continued it. I really had no idea how I was ever going to graduate, and even started investigating alternatives. I found two guys to work with, and that made all the difference. My "graduating" was really a team effort. I learned that I worked better as part of a team, and that the results of team effort was greater than either of the team members could have accomplished on their own. I also learned to keep going. I had two strikes against me, and couldn't afford a third (I would have been invited to find a learning institution more suited to my abilities, if you get my drift). The stress of this was always there. I even had a dream after graduation that I hadn't really gotten it done.
The biggest lesson I learned though was; how to learn.
I had started my lifelong learning journey. Gandhi was definitely right when he said; "Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever."
What's the value of it all?
Piece of paper: worthless.
The doors the paper opens: valuable.
Learning to learn: priceless.
If I was hiring me
I've had a mental goal for a few years to live what I would call a "no resumé" life. I haven't found a satisfying way to put together a meaningful resumé, so I really wanted to "pass" on the whole thing.
Recently it struck me - what would I want to know about a person who I was hiring? Fundamentally, it came down to wanting to know how that person thought, and why they thought that way. What are their core values? What are their goals? How do they think about other people, and about themselves?
Then, suddenly, I realized that one of my purposes in this blog is to let others know how I think - about me, and about others. To reveal my core values.
I think, in a small way, this blog is also my resumé.
Recently it struck me - what would I want to know about a person who I was hiring? Fundamentally, it came down to wanting to know how that person thought, and why they thought that way. What are their core values? What are their goals? How do they think about other people, and about themselves?
Then, suddenly, I realized that one of my purposes in this blog is to let others know how I think - about me, and about others. To reveal my core values.
I think, in a small way, this blog is also my resumé.
Thursday, October 4, 2007
Virtual collaboration
I read this article a while back. It talked about overcoming some of the limitations of telecommuting.
I know that the bulk of my day is spent interacting physically within the confines of my cubicle. Less and less of that happens over the phone, and more and more of it via instant messaging, remote access to other computers and email.
I get up to get coffee. I get up to do what happens after drinking coffee.
Most days, my physical commute to work isn't really that bad. But, now that I'm over it, let's talk about yesterday. I had a meeting starting 30 minutes after my scheduled start time, and I had construction and traffic issues. I really don't know my way around Detroit except for the two or three routes I normally take. Neither of those routes were looking very appealling, so I took a fourth, uncharted route. Turned out to be one of my many poor decisions regarding directions. I ended up being late for the meeting, and thinking more about the benefits of bringing a virtual me to the office rather than the physical me.
I'm ready for telecommuting. I'm just waiting for my management team to catch up. :-)
I've got more to say on this topic. Much more, actually.
Stay tuned.
I know that the bulk of my day is spent interacting physically within the confines of my cubicle. Less and less of that happens over the phone, and more and more of it via instant messaging, remote access to other computers and email.
I get up to get coffee. I get up to do what happens after drinking coffee.
Most days, my physical commute to work isn't really that bad. But, now that I'm over it, let's talk about yesterday. I had a meeting starting 30 minutes after my scheduled start time, and I had construction and traffic issues. I really don't know my way around Detroit except for the two or three routes I normally take. Neither of those routes were looking very appealling, so I took a fourth, uncharted route. Turned out to be one of my many poor decisions regarding directions. I ended up being late for the meeting, and thinking more about the benefits of bringing a virtual me to the office rather than the physical me.
I'm ready for telecommuting. I'm just waiting for my management team to catch up. :-)
I've got more to say on this topic. Much more, actually.
Stay tuned.
Cares and Worries
Isaiah 37:14-17 (NIV)
Hezekiah received the letter from the messengers and read it. Then he went up to the temple of the LORD and spread it out before the LORD. And Hezekiah prayed to the LORD : "O LORD Almighty, God of Israel, enthroned between the cherubim, you alone are God over all the kingdoms of the earth. You have made heaven and earth. Give ear, O LORD, and hear; open your eyes, O LORD, and see; listen to all the words Sennacherib has sent to insult the living God.
1 Peter 5:7 (KJV)
Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.
Hezekiah took the evidence of his troubles, the thing he was worried about, and laid it out before God. He praised God and trusted Him to take care of the situation.
It would be wise for me to do likewise.
God bless you today, and may He grant you His peace.
Hezekiah received the letter from the messengers and read it. Then he went up to the temple of the LORD and spread it out before the LORD. And Hezekiah prayed to the LORD : "O LORD Almighty, God of Israel, enthroned between the cherubim, you alone are God over all the kingdoms of the earth. You have made heaven and earth. Give ear, O LORD, and hear; open your eyes, O LORD, and see; listen to all the words Sennacherib has sent to insult the living God.
1 Peter 5:7 (KJV)
Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.
Hezekiah took the evidence of his troubles, the thing he was worried about, and laid it out before God. He praised God and trusted Him to take care of the situation.
It would be wise for me to do likewise.
God bless you today, and may He grant you His peace.
Tuesday, October 2, 2007
When?
Enlightened Leadership was published in 1991. In it they quote Jack Welch; "we need a fundamental revolution in our approach ... to work itself". The book goes on a few pages later to state; "we will have to undergo a total demolition of American style of management".
1991.
Did I miss the revolution? Did we really not need it?
I'd say we're way overdue.
Let me re-emphasize the quotes; fundamental revolution, total demolition.
fundamental: the very nature of something
revolution: drastic and far-reaching change
total: entire, everything
demolition: destruction
So, didn't Welch say we need to make far-reaching changes to how we view the very nature of work? Didn't the book go on to say we need to completely destroy (leaving no remnants) the way we manage?
I wonder if they could have stated it any clearer, or more sternly.
If we really did completely destroy how we view work, and how we manage people - what should the new result look like?
What's the model for North American competitive advantage look like?
I certainly don't have that answer, but - the beginning of the correct answers is the correct questions.
1991.
Did I miss the revolution? Did we really not need it?
I'd say we're way overdue.
Let me re-emphasize the quotes; fundamental revolution, total demolition.
fundamental: the very nature of something
revolution: drastic and far-reaching change
total: entire, everything
demolition: destruction
So, didn't Welch say we need to make far-reaching changes to how we view the very nature of work? Didn't the book go on to say we need to completely destroy (leaving no remnants) the way we manage?
I wonder if they could have stated it any clearer, or more sternly.
If we really did completely destroy how we view work, and how we manage people - what should the new result look like?
What's the model for North American competitive advantage look like?
I certainly don't have that answer, but - the beginning of the correct answers is the correct questions.
Monday, October 1, 2007
Discontent
I'm reading a new book, Success with People by Cavett Robert.
This quote ties in so closely with a recent conversation that I just had to post it here;
on page 64 - "To meet with any measure of success in this life, we must have the gift of dissatisfaction. We must want circumstances to be better than they are now. If we are completely satisfied with our present state of life, and with everything that surrounds us, the pilgrimage has ended for us and we have already settled in our little city of compromise. We are then bogged down in the quicksands of complacency, lost in the sterile valley of inertia, and frozen in the ices of status quo. It is only through divine discontent that we keep moving forward."
So that's what's wrong with me! I'm discontent! I hope it's my "holy discontent".
My son and I attended a Leadership Summit a while back at NorthRidge Church. It was a simulcast from Willow Creek. Bill Hybels spoke about "holy discontent" and he referenced Popeye; "That's alls I can stands, and I can't stands no more." He meant; "what is it that you see happening in this world that tears at you?" More importantly, what are you going to do about it?
It reminds me of the Scott Krippayne song, "What Breaks Your Heart"
Want to get to know You better
I want to understand what matters to You
I want to know what moves You deeply
I want to see the world the way You do
What breaks Your heart
What makes You cry
What would I see
If I looked through Your eyes
I want to grow closer and closer to You
'Til what breaks Your heart
Will break mine too
Don't want to be numb to injustice
Don't want to get used to the evil I see
Don't want to grow cold to those who wander
Or forget about those who don't believe
That's what I want!
This quote ties in so closely with a recent conversation that I just had to post it here;
on page 64 - "To meet with any measure of success in this life, we must have the gift of dissatisfaction. We must want circumstances to be better than they are now. If we are completely satisfied with our present state of life, and with everything that surrounds us, the pilgrimage has ended for us and we have already settled in our little city of compromise. We are then bogged down in the quicksands of complacency, lost in the sterile valley of inertia, and frozen in the ices of status quo. It is only through divine discontent that we keep moving forward."
So that's what's wrong with me! I'm discontent! I hope it's my "holy discontent".
My son and I attended a Leadership Summit a while back at NorthRidge Church. It was a simulcast from Willow Creek. Bill Hybels spoke about "holy discontent" and he referenced Popeye; "That's alls I can stands, and I can't stands no more." He meant; "what is it that you see happening in this world that tears at you?" More importantly, what are you going to do about it?
It reminds me of the Scott Krippayne song, "What Breaks Your Heart"
Want to get to know You better
I want to understand what matters to You
I want to know what moves You deeply
I want to see the world the way You do
What breaks Your heart
What makes You cry
What would I see
If I looked through Your eyes
I want to grow closer and closer to You
'Til what breaks Your heart
Will break mine too
Don't want to be numb to injustice
Don't want to get used to the evil I see
Don't want to grow cold to those who wander
Or forget about those who don't believe
That's what I want!
Sunday, September 30, 2007
Isaiah 35:4
say to those with fearful hearts,
"Be strong, do not fear;
your God will come,
he will come with vengeance;
with divine retribution
he will come to save you."
I read this a few days ago and was immediately hearing the words of the song from Bob Fitts;
Say to those who are fearful hearted, "do not be afraid,
the Lord your God is strong, with His mighty arm,
when you call on His name." He will come and save
He will come and save you, He will come and save you
Say to the weary one, "your God will surely come"
He will come and save you
I really appreciate that there are people who can take Scripture and put it to music for me. I hadn't thought of my time reading Scripture as a time of praise before.
"Be strong, do not fear;
your God will come,
he will come with vengeance;
with divine retribution
he will come to save you."
I read this a few days ago and was immediately hearing the words of the song from Bob Fitts;
Say to those who are fearful hearted, "do not be afraid,
the Lord your God is strong, with His mighty arm,
when you call on His name." He will come and save
He will come and save you, He will come and save you
Say to the weary one, "your God will surely come"
He will come and save you
I really appreciate that there are people who can take Scripture and put it to music for me. I hadn't thought of my time reading Scripture as a time of praise before.
The Puck
Notes from Enlightened Leadership.
"We must anticipate where the market is going and will be, not where it is or has been - we need to ask the right questions"
Powerful stuff - reminds me of a couple of Gretzky quotes;
“I skate to where the puck is going to be, not where it has been.”
“A good hockey player plays where the puck is. A great hockey player plays where the puck is going to be.”
So, where is the market going? If you're in mid-career and you have 20 years left until age-based retirement, which basket are you going to keep your eggs in for that time? What is the "safe, secure" marketplace for the next 20 years?
I'm not going to pretend that I know the answers to those questions.
I know the internet is going to be involved. I know that success is going to take excellence. I know that the marketplace will need leadership.
Beyond that, I know that there are people who know.
Decide who you're going to take advice from, then - follow their advice (now there's good advice that I should really take myself).
That first quote really has two parts - the second being - ask the right questions.
I've learned that our subconscious brain will go to work to answer any question we ask of it. Why don't my wife and I get along? - ask myself that and my brain will go to work and give me answers. Answers that won't necessarily help me to improve the situation. How can I demonstrate to my wife that I love her? - when my brain goes to work on that question, I can expect the improvements I am hoping for.
Ask the right questions!
"We must anticipate where the market is going and will be, not where it is or has been - we need to ask the right questions"
Powerful stuff - reminds me of a couple of Gretzky quotes;
“I skate to where the puck is going to be, not where it has been.”
“A good hockey player plays where the puck is. A great hockey player plays where the puck is going to be.”
I'm not going to pretend that I know the answers to those questions.
I know the internet is going to be involved. I know that success is going to take excellence. I know that the marketplace will need leadership.
Beyond that, I know that there are people who know.
Decide who you're going to take advice from, then - follow their advice (now there's good advice that I should really take myself).
That first quote really has two parts - the second being - ask the right questions.
I've learned that our subconscious brain will go to work to answer any question we ask of it. Why don't my wife and I get along? - ask myself that and my brain will go to work and give me answers. Answers that won't necessarily help me to improve the situation. How can I demonstrate to my wife that I love her? - when my brain goes to work on that question, I can expect the improvements I am hoping for.
Ask the right questions!
Saturday, September 29, 2007
Feedback
I've already started looking for feedback. I've realized I shouldn't need it. If you know what you're doing is right - that's all the feedback you need.
I'd love to know that others think highly of me and appreciate what I have to say, but my self worth comes from a much better source than that.
He has already provided all the feedback I need.
I'd love to know that others think highly of me and appreciate what I have to say, but my self worth comes from a much better source than that.
He has already provided all the feedback I need.
Friday, September 28, 2007
Have You Ever?
Have you ever borrowed something, a book for instance, from someone for so long that they forgot you had it? they even forgot it was theirs? and if it was a book, you had it so long that you thought "oh, I'm going to see AEP, and I still haven't read that book she lent me!"
So, I pulled the book off the shelf to scan through it, and found a few pages of notes. My handwriting! Notes for the whole book! So, I had read the book! When did I do that?
Have you ever had that kind of thing happen?
It was this book (posting of notes to follow);
Enlightened Leadership
So, I pulled the book off the shelf to scan through it, and found a few pages of notes. My handwriting! Notes for the whole book! So, I had read the book! When did I do that?
Have you ever had that kind of thing happen?
It was this book (posting of notes to follow);
Enlightened Leadership
Soapbox
I was having a "soapbox" kind of day yesterday. I even got an early start on it.
We had an old friend over for dinner, and I even got "called out" on it. She suggested that maybe I even like expressing my dissatisfaction with things.
It seems that people who have known you for a long time can see the habits and patterns that you don't see in yourself.
I think I need to put the action behind my words.
AEP, thanks for the "adjustment" (and the perspective).
Remember; leadership involves planned conflict against the status quo.
We had an old friend over for dinner, and I even got "called out" on it. She suggested that maybe I even like expressing my dissatisfaction with things.
It seems that people who have known you for a long time can see the habits and patterns that you don't see in yourself.
I think I need to put the action behind my words.
AEP, thanks for the "adjustment" (and the perspective).
Remember; leadership involves planned conflict against the status quo.
Monday, July 9, 2007
Strength and Shield
Psalm 28:7
The LORD is my strength and my shield;
my heart trusts in him, and I am helped.
My heart leaps for joy
and I will give thanks to him in song.
Like Scott Krippayne says; "as long as I can sing, I wanna sing about You!"
The LORD is my strength and my shield;
my heart trusts in him, and I am helped.
My heart leaps for joy
and I will give thanks to him in song.
Like Scott Krippayne says; "as long as I can sing, I wanna sing about You!"
Monday, June 25, 2007
Isaiah 58
I had a good friend recommend this passage. I put it in my reading rotation, thinking that after a few times I would be 'done'. I'm not done. I haven't gotten everything out of it yet. Maybe I'm just slow, but it seems that God highlights a new part of it every few times I read it.
I started making notes
I put a few different translations there also.
I started making notes
I put a few different translations there also.
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