So much to say, so little time. Yesterday morning all the American
students left from the school on our trip to the Blue Mountains and
the Jenolen Caves. I really wasn't looking forward to the trip that
much. Because I've already seen the Blue Mountains with my
family and I've seen many caves before. But I was surprised with
the fun that it was.
The Blue Mountains were once again very beautiful. But as I said
I had been there before. It was still good to see them, mainly just
because it was with all my buds. But the caves was really
something. The first night we got there we took one of those
normal walking-on-a-paved-walkway cave tour. Actually a really
cool part of that was when we stopped in one of the rooms down
there and sang. We had all four choir parts, so we did a little
performance acappella (sp?). It was really cool. Cool to sing and
cool to get attention. :) We also sang songs as a whole group.
The caves made the singing special. A lot different than singing
in a normal room.
This morning we all got geared up in our coveralls, helmets,
lights, and harness. The first thing we did was repel down into this
hole to where we could enter the caves. That was pretty fun.
Then we split up into groups of about 6 where we started our tour.
There were no lights down there. We just had our lights on our
helmets. And there was no real path, it was much more rugged
then the previous tour. Much more climbing, ducking, sliding,
squeezing, jumping. It was such a blast. It's like one of those
things every guy wanted to do as a kid. Even though we stayed
as a group and followed a guide, it felt much more like we were
free and exploring.
I don't know why, but I wasn't really too worried about it. Dr.
Johnston kind of exaggerated how bad it was when he explained
it. But then later (before the tour) he explained it better and made
me feel a lot better about it.
There were definitely some tight places. Like where you had to
crawl flat on your stomach to made it through. But usually you
could see the other side where you could stand up again, so it
wasn't bad at all. There was also this really cool girl in my group.
So the experience was definitely brighter.
Man there's so much more to say but I'll try to wrap it up with one
more thought.
I spent a lot of time with the guys in our ASC group. At our
dinner Friday night we had many many laughs. But then the
conversation started going sour. A couple jokes and stories were
shared that were distasteful to say the least. I felt dirty after
hearing them. It of course made me sad. But then later that night
a group of us, many of the same guys got together and had this
great praise and worship time where we prayed for each other
and sang and praised God and read the scripture. I can tell those
guys take God's word seriously, but it's like they're blind to certain
parts. Like 'having no hint of evil amongst you' or whatever the
quote is. They just talk about things that aren't uplifting at all or
pure, or wholesome.
I know I probably have areas in my life that I'm blinded to, but it's
a lot easier to see them in others. It makes me wonder what evil
in my life I'm not seeing.
Saturday, October 16, 2004
Thursday, October 14, 2004
Memories
After classes yesterday, Darren, Dan, Angie, Rebecca, and I
went over to Heather and Cassie's to swim. They live at a
homestay at an apartment place with a pool. It was so hot
yesterday. I think it got up to 100. It was fun to swim, but of
course the sun went down before we got in. After we swam
we ate there and then looked at pictures/video of Heather,
Cassie, and Darren's trip to Melbourne and Brisbane. It was
really fun to watch the video because they were always doing
stupid/funny stuff for the camera. It was quite entertaining.
I really like reading. I wish I could do it more. I'm still working
on The Testament. It's really fun to be in another world. When
you get tired of your own world, books are a good way to go to
others.
I'm leaving for the Jenolan caves with the ASC group tomorrow.
I don't really feel like going. I just want to stay home and relax.
But I guess it might be fun. I'm also a little worried about doing
the Adventure Caving Tour because apparently there are parts
where you have to crawl through on your stomach. And there
are no lights except the ones on your helmet. I'm not terribly
excited about doing that. But hopefully it won't be a big deal. I'll
pray about it.
Today it was really hot again. Up until about 1 or 2 when it got
cloudy and nice and cool. It felt so good after the heat. It was kind
of windy and looked like a storm. It reminded me of Colorado
weather for some reason. Which in turn reminded me of Horn Creek -
the family camp we go to every year. It made me long to be there.
To be with family, with no worries. Not that I have many worries here.
That's just a comforting memory I have.
went over to Heather and Cassie's to swim. They live at a
homestay at an apartment place with a pool. It was so hot
yesterday. I think it got up to 100. It was fun to swim, but of
course the sun went down before we got in. After we swam
we ate there and then looked at pictures/video of Heather,
Cassie, and Darren's trip to Melbourne and Brisbane. It was
really fun to watch the video because they were always doing
stupid/funny stuff for the camera. It was quite entertaining.
I really like reading. I wish I could do it more. I'm still working
on The Testament. It's really fun to be in another world. When
you get tired of your own world, books are a good way to go to
others.
I'm leaving for the Jenolan caves with the ASC group tomorrow.
I don't really feel like going. I just want to stay home and relax.
But I guess it might be fun. I'm also a little worried about doing
the Adventure Caving Tour because apparently there are parts
where you have to crawl through on your stomach. And there
are no lights except the ones on your helmet. I'm not terribly
excited about doing that. But hopefully it won't be a big deal. I'll
pray about it.
Today it was really hot again. Up until about 1 or 2 when it got
cloudy and nice and cool. It felt so good after the heat. It was kind
of windy and looked like a storm. It reminded me of Colorado
weather for some reason. Which in turn reminded me of Horn Creek -
the family camp we go to every year. It made me long to be there.
To be with family, with no worries. Not that I have many worries here.
That's just a comforting memory I have.
Tuesday, October 12, 2004
Goodbye For A Little While
Monday was good. Probably one of the best days with my
family. They came to school with me. I was able to introduce
them to some of my friends. We ate there and talked a lot.
They didn't embarrass me which is good. Choir practice
was great. My family was able to hear pretty much all of our
other good songs. We sang all of my favorite. I was glad.
They said they really enjoyed it and were impressed. I was
proud. Dr. Johnston was kind and asked if there was anything
in particular I wanted my family to hear. So at the end we sang
Wondrous Cross. An incredible arrangement that is so powerful.
I really love it and was very glad my family could hear it.
I didn't have Theology today. My teacher is out of town or
something. So I was able to see my family off at the airport. It
was sad to see them go. But I've kind of gotten used to their
absence. Plus I know I will see them pretty soon at Thanksgiving.
Not too far away. Having left this morning, They'll be getting
home about the time I wake up tomorrow. That's a long time to
travel at once.
By the way, I don't mean to sound like I didn't appreciate my family
coming. I really did. It was fantastic to see them again. Especially
to see Michelle. I love her a lot.
I don't know what to do for a career. I've been thinking a lot about
it lately. I've also been talking with my Dad about it. I guess God
really wants me to trust Him on this one. Because I don't have a
very good idea of what to do. I have many interests, but how should
I know what to commit myself to? Trusting in someone you can't
see to guide you is hard.
family. They came to school with me. I was able to introduce
them to some of my friends. We ate there and talked a lot.
They didn't embarrass me which is good. Choir practice
was great. My family was able to hear pretty much all of our
other good songs. We sang all of my favorite. I was glad.
They said they really enjoyed it and were impressed. I was
proud. Dr. Johnston was kind and asked if there was anything
in particular I wanted my family to hear. So at the end we sang
Wondrous Cross. An incredible arrangement that is so powerful.
I really love it and was very glad my family could hear it.
I didn't have Theology today. My teacher is out of town or
something. So I was able to see my family off at the airport. It
was sad to see them go. But I've kind of gotten used to their
absence. Plus I know I will see them pretty soon at Thanksgiving.
Not too far away. Having left this morning, They'll be getting
home about the time I wake up tomorrow. That's a long time to
travel at once.
By the way, I don't mean to sound like I didn't appreciate my family
coming. I really did. It was fantastic to see them again. Especially
to see Michelle. I love her a lot.
I don't know what to do for a career. I've been thinking a lot about
it lately. I've also been talking with my Dad about it. I guess God
really wants me to trust Him on this one. Because I don't have a
very good idea of what to do. I have many interests, but how should
I know what to commit myself to? Trusting in someone you can't
see to guide you is hard.
Sunday, October 10, 2004
Disappointing
We went to Wesley Mission for church. It was a really good
sermon. I think I might start going there more often. We went
to a mall nearby and ate lunch, then went back to the church
for our choir concert. We only sang two songs, Brighter Day
and Shackles. I was kind of disappointed with the whole
experience for several reasons. I wanted my family to hear
more of our songs. The two we did were up beat and not that
challenging musically.
I was also disappointed because it just didn't feel like choir
tour. We seemed to have lost the feeling of oneness that we
had on tour. It's hard to describe, but there's no other feeling
like it.
I guess what made it disappointing was my high expectations.
I was thinking things would be all great and we would sing
all these fun songs and show my family at the same time. But
It that's not how things worked out. Oh well. Things will be
better.
When we got home later, we played Pictionary with Jon, his
friends Joel and Matt, Darren, my family and I. It was really pretty
fun. Joel is such a funny guy. He makes all these sarcastic
comments and then just laughs really hard at his own jokes.
Good times.
This blog isn't as good when you are writing to people who you
live with. I've kind of had to limit what I say because I know my
family will read this later. I'm not quite as free.
Sorry if I've made this point before. I've had another one of
those days where I've come to experience the reality of sin
in our everyday lives. By that I mean the effects of sin. Namely,
how things and people will let you down. Nothing but that which
comes from God will last forever and will never let you down.
Today I guess I've experienced how people will let you down
in particular. I'm thinking of the choir. It's not like they've done
anything wrong. They're just not perfectly dependable. God is.
He's who I need to lean on. Mentally, physically and spiritually.
That's why I get so tired with dealing with things which aren't
dependable. Why can't we just jump to perfection in heaven?
That's not for me to decide or complain of I suppose.
sermon. I think I might start going there more often. We went
to a mall nearby and ate lunch, then went back to the church
for our choir concert. We only sang two songs, Brighter Day
and Shackles. I was kind of disappointed with the whole
experience for several reasons. I wanted my family to hear
more of our songs. The two we did were up beat and not that
challenging musically.
I was also disappointed because it just didn't feel like choir
tour. We seemed to have lost the feeling of oneness that we
had on tour. It's hard to describe, but there's no other feeling
like it.
I guess what made it disappointing was my high expectations.
I was thinking things would be all great and we would sing
all these fun songs and show my family at the same time. But
It that's not how things worked out. Oh well. Things will be
better.
When we got home later, we played Pictionary with Jon, his
friends Joel and Matt, Darren, my family and I. It was really pretty
fun. Joel is such a funny guy. He makes all these sarcastic
comments and then just laughs really hard at his own jokes.
Good times.
This blog isn't as good when you are writing to people who you
live with. I've kind of had to limit what I say because I know my
family will read this later. I'm not quite as free.
Sorry if I've made this point before. I've had another one of
those days where I've come to experience the reality of sin
in our everyday lives. By that I mean the effects of sin. Namely,
how things and people will let you down. Nothing but that which
comes from God will last forever and will never let you down.
Today I guess I've experienced how people will let you down
in particular. I'm thinking of the choir. It's not like they've done
anything wrong. They're just not perfectly dependable. God is.
He's who I need to lean on. Mentally, physically and spiritually.
That's why I get so tired with dealing with things which aren't
dependable. Why can't we just jump to perfection in heaven?
That's not for me to decide or complain of I suppose.
Friday, October 08, 2004
Unseen Connections
Man... life goes on. I've had a good couple of days with my
family since I've last posted. I've been reminded of the
patience one must have when traveling with a family. Like,
when I'm with myself I can just go and do whatever whenever.
But with my family it takes longer to do things because we
have to stop for this reason or that. Something I've sort of
forgotten. Of course there are countless positive aspects
on the other hand.
There's something special and very powerful that can take
place between two human beings that is unexplainable. I'm
not merely talking about relationships between male and
female. There are many people whom I've found very
interesting and admirable. Seeing these people have wet
my appetite for a closer more intimate relationship with
someone. It's like my soul says, if a relationship with the
ordinary is this, if a person can be this fulfilling at this
distance, how much greater would it be to experience
someone closer.
I must say I've experienced a little bit of heaven on earth
here in Australia. I will miss it so incredibly much. Most
of all I will miss the people. I hate thinking that it will end.
But I hang to the hope of seeing them all again in heaven.
Along with the rest of my friends and family. I pray that day
comes very soon.
I've got to go to bed, I'm starting to get into one of those
depressed moods that one tends to fall into at night.
family since I've last posted. I've been reminded of the
patience one must have when traveling with a family. Like,
when I'm with myself I can just go and do whatever whenever.
But with my family it takes longer to do things because we
have to stop for this reason or that. Something I've sort of
forgotten. Of course there are countless positive aspects
on the other hand.
There's something special and very powerful that can take
place between two human beings that is unexplainable. I'm
not merely talking about relationships between male and
female. There are many people whom I've found very
interesting and admirable. Seeing these people have wet
my appetite for a closer more intimate relationship with
someone. It's like my soul says, if a relationship with the
ordinary is this, if a person can be this fulfilling at this
distance, how much greater would it be to experience
someone closer.
I must say I've experienced a little bit of heaven on earth
here in Australia. I will miss it so incredibly much. Most
of all I will miss the people. I hate thinking that it will end.
But I hang to the hope of seeing them all again in heaven.
Along with the rest of my friends and family. I pray that day
comes very soon.
I've got to go to bed, I'm starting to get into one of those
depressed moods that one tends to fall into at night.
Tuesday, October 05, 2004
Help My Unbelief
We went to the Queen Victoria Building, which is a shopping
center, and to Darling Harbor. It was a good but very long day.
A lot of walking. Man this is killing us. We (at least I) always
seem to be pretty tired all the time. I don't wish to be rid of this
experience, but it is tiring.
My sister is very precious. It's funny how she learns from family.
In some areas she seems more mature than I. I hope she
doesn't pick up certain bad characteristics from me.
Not that I'm a master at this, but I've learned that by having a good
attitude about life, life becomes good. Like today. I could have
found plenty of things that went wrong and focus on them, but
the day wouldn't have been so great. The my is powerful.
When I took psychology (ages ago) I learned about how one will
see what he wants to see. For instance with a certain belief one
will only see the evidence that will support that belief. This has
made me think a lot about beliefs. If this is true, if this phenomena
really happens, maybe God uses it to help reinforce our beliefs.
But if that's the case, how do we know we weren't expecting a
different belief in the first place and thus our mind only sees
things that reinforce that wrong belief?
I suppose it all comes down to faith. If God gives us faith to believe
the truth, than we will. If he doesn't we won't. The Bible says that
we shall know the truth and the truth shall set us free. But even to
believe that statement takes faith. hmmm I'm confused. I believe
and sometimes I don't know why. I guess God truly is the giver of
my belief.
center, and to Darling Harbor. It was a good but very long day.
A lot of walking. Man this is killing us. We (at least I) always
seem to be pretty tired all the time. I don't wish to be rid of this
experience, but it is tiring.
My sister is very precious. It's funny how she learns from family.
In some areas she seems more mature than I. I hope she
doesn't pick up certain bad characteristics from me.
Not that I'm a master at this, but I've learned that by having a good
attitude about life, life becomes good. Like today. I could have
found plenty of things that went wrong and focus on them, but
the day wouldn't have been so great. The my is powerful.
When I took psychology (ages ago) I learned about how one will
see what he wants to see. For instance with a certain belief one
will only see the evidence that will support that belief. This has
made me think a lot about beliefs. If this is true, if this phenomena
really happens, maybe God uses it to help reinforce our beliefs.
But if that's the case, how do we know we weren't expecting a
different belief in the first place and thus our mind only sees
things that reinforce that wrong belief?
I suppose it all comes down to faith. If God gives us faith to believe
the truth, than we will. If he doesn't we won't. The Bible says that
we shall know the truth and the truth shall set us free. But even to
believe that statement takes faith. hmmm I'm confused. I believe
and sometimes I don't know why. I guess God truly is the giver of
my belief.
Monday, October 04, 2004
Lovely Meaning
I had another full day with my family again today. We
went to the zoo and took a tour of the Opera house.
Man that main auditorium where the symphony plays
is incredible. It's a beautiful design. I really really want
to go to Mozart Requiem in November. I think Sean
played Mozart Requiem in an ensemble once. I've
heard it's really beautiful. And I'm sure it'll will be a
fabulous show at the Opera house. My only wish is
that Sean could go with me.
You ever have those moments where you have an
enhanced sense of the reality of God? I had one today.
I can't explain it. It's like a switch was turned on in my
mind where I all of a sudden realized that God is real
and that he is watching. Obviously I know this to be true
in my head, but something made it real in the depths of
my soul. The moment didn't last long.
I'm not that weird, really.
I can have all the toys, all the knowledge, all the fame,
all the sex, all the riches in the world but unless I have
a relationship that is meaningful, than life is meaningless.
I can't stress this fact enough. Day after day, God reveals
this truth to me. Relationships are where its at. I suppose
that is what will make heaven what it is.
Spend 99 cents on iTunes and buy "Lack of Color" by
"Death Cab For Cutie." This is a secular band that has
found the truth stated above. And this song shows it. It's
an amazing song that I just can't get enough of.
I suppose even more than a meaningful relationship, life
is made good through love. As the bible says, without love
I have nothing. I am nothing. God realized this when he
created us. And He certainly proved it to be true through
His own love for us.
went to the zoo and took a tour of the Opera house.
Man that main auditorium where the symphony plays
is incredible. It's a beautiful design. I really really want
to go to Mozart Requiem in November. I think Sean
played Mozart Requiem in an ensemble once. I've
heard it's really beautiful. And I'm sure it'll will be a
fabulous show at the Opera house. My only wish is
that Sean could go with me.
You ever have those moments where you have an
enhanced sense of the reality of God? I had one today.
I can't explain it. It's like a switch was turned on in my
mind where I all of a sudden realized that God is real
and that he is watching. Obviously I know this to be true
in my head, but something made it real in the depths of
my soul. The moment didn't last long.
I'm not that weird, really.
I can have all the toys, all the knowledge, all the fame,
all the sex, all the riches in the world but unless I have
a relationship that is meaningful, than life is meaningless.
I can't stress this fact enough. Day after day, God reveals
this truth to me. Relationships are where its at. I suppose
that is what will make heaven what it is.
Spend 99 cents on iTunes and buy "Lack of Color" by
"Death Cab For Cutie." This is a secular band that has
found the truth stated above. And this song shows it. It's
an amazing song that I just can't get enough of.
I suppose even more than a meaningful relationship, life
is made good through love. As the bible says, without love
I have nothing. I am nothing. God realized this when he
created us. And He certainly proved it to be true through
His own love for us.
Sunday, October 03, 2004
Fun With Family
It's been a couple days since I've posted. My family's
here and we've been having some full days and going
to bed early. They're tired early from jet lag, and I'm
just plain tired for some reason. We've had a good time
so far. It was great to see them for the first time at the
airport. It's been too long.
We went to the Aquatic Centre yesterday. It was little bit
more oriented towards kids than I thought, but it was still
fun. There was a big water slide and a river thing where
the water is pushed through this area and you just kind
of go with the flow, literally. It was great to swim with
Michelle. I think she really enjoyed it.
We went to Wendy's church this morning. It was pretty
good. The whole service wasn't as wild and crazy as it
was the last time I went. And the message was actually
pretty good. Biblically sound. I think my family enjoyed it.
It was quite annoying to stand with my family and go
through all the introductions to everyone.
It's great to be with my family again. My Dad continues to
make me laugh with his sarcasm and such. We're not
complete though. I miss Sean and Jonathan. I was
showing my family some pictures and was reminded of
good times on our Chicago trip with Sean.
Sorry I'm not really saying much that's very interesting
in this blog. I'm feeling kind of lazy right now.
Feedback's encouraging. Thanks.
here and we've been having some full days and going
to bed early. They're tired early from jet lag, and I'm
just plain tired for some reason. We've had a good time
so far. It was great to see them for the first time at the
airport. It's been too long.
We went to the Aquatic Centre yesterday. It was little bit
more oriented towards kids than I thought, but it was still
fun. There was a big water slide and a river thing where
the water is pushed through this area and you just kind
of go with the flow, literally. It was great to swim with
Michelle. I think she really enjoyed it.
We went to Wendy's church this morning. It was pretty
good. The whole service wasn't as wild and crazy as it
was the last time I went. And the message was actually
pretty good. Biblically sound. I think my family enjoyed it.
It was quite annoying to stand with my family and go
through all the introductions to everyone.
It's great to be with my family again. My Dad continues to
make me laugh with his sarcasm and such. We're not
complete though. I miss Sean and Jonathan. I was
showing my family some pictures and was reminded of
good times on our Chicago trip with Sean.
Sorry I'm not really saying much that's very interesting
in this blog. I'm feeling kind of lazy right now.
Feedback's encouraging. Thanks.
Wednesday, September 22, 2004
Disappointing Night
I went to the Switchfoot concert tonight. I had just
heard about it yesterday so we didn't get tickets in
advance. We thought we could buy them at
the door. But we couldn't because they were all
sold out. So we didn't get in. But we could see them
on a large screen outside the concert hall, and we
could hear them if we stood close enough to the
door. So if you stood in that sweet spot, you could
hear and see them. Needless to say I'm kind of
upset and disappointed that we couldn't see them.
But I am accepting it. The good news is I have $30
in my wallet that I wouldn't of had, had I been able
to see them.
I'm tired of constant teasing, constant criticism. It's
not funny. I need someone to tell me not to pay
attention to what's said. Someone to tell me not to
worry about the way God made me. Someone to tell
me not to be self conscious. I'm fine, I'm just going
through a challenging time right now.
I need to spend more time with Jon. I feel bad always
running off in the evenings, leaving him alone. I don't
know what to do with him though. I guess I could play
games. He sort of makes me sad.
I'd type more but I'm too tired.
heard about it yesterday so we didn't get tickets in
advance. We thought we could buy them at
the door. But we couldn't because they were all
sold out. So we didn't get in. But we could see them
on a large screen outside the concert hall, and we
could hear them if we stood close enough to the
door. So if you stood in that sweet spot, you could
hear and see them. Needless to say I'm kind of
upset and disappointed that we couldn't see them.
But I am accepting it. The good news is I have $30
in my wallet that I wouldn't of had, had I been able
to see them.
I'm tired of constant teasing, constant criticism. It's
not funny. I need someone to tell me not to pay
attention to what's said. Someone to tell me not to
worry about the way God made me. Someone to tell
me not to be self conscious. I'm fine, I'm just going
through a challenging time right now.
I need to spend more time with Jon. I feel bad always
running off in the evenings, leaving him alone. I don't
know what to do with him though. I guess I could play
games. He sort of makes me sad.
I'd type more but I'm too tired.
Tuesday, September 14, 2004
God Gave Us Music
I'm so very tired right now so this probably won't be so long.
I had a test in my Theology and a project due in my Video
Editing class. I got through both of them alright. I think the
only reason to be worried about Theology is that there are
only two tests and a paper for the whole class. The test only
had 6 short answer questions on it. I think I did alright. As
good as anyone. I studied quite a bit so I can't really be hard
on myself.
A bunch of people went to a pizza shop for dinner tonight.
But I couldn't, I had my Video Editing class. Kind of a bummer.
Darren went and it sounded like a really fun time. A lot of
good friends were there. Oh well.
I want to be closer to God. I don't take reading my Bible
or praying seriously enough. It seems to be just a habit that
I do every night.
I'm looking forward to singing in The Gathering tomorrow.
Choir is always fun. I wish we had a piano here. I have
the urge to learn some Chopin songs. I really like Chopin.
I want to learn the one my brother learned called Nocturne
in E flat major. It's beautiful. There's just something about
piano music that I really love, and miss right now. It's such
a beautiful form of expression. Maybe I'll take lessons
when I get back to JBU. Just for fun.
There is most certainly a difference in the quality of life with
music as compared to without it. Especially making music
as opposed to not. I need to make more. I'm so thankful for
God's gift of music. Life's more colorful with it.
I had a test in my Theology and a project due in my Video
Editing class. I got through both of them alright. I think the
only reason to be worried about Theology is that there are
only two tests and a paper for the whole class. The test only
had 6 short answer questions on it. I think I did alright. As
good as anyone. I studied quite a bit so I can't really be hard
on myself.
A bunch of people went to a pizza shop for dinner tonight.
But I couldn't, I had my Video Editing class. Kind of a bummer.
Darren went and it sounded like a really fun time. A lot of
good friends were there. Oh well.
I want to be closer to God. I don't take reading my Bible
or praying seriously enough. It seems to be just a habit that
I do every night.
I'm looking forward to singing in The Gathering tomorrow.
Choir is always fun. I wish we had a piano here. I have
the urge to learn some Chopin songs. I really like Chopin.
I want to learn the one my brother learned called Nocturne
in E flat major. It's beautiful. There's just something about
piano music that I really love, and miss right now. It's such
a beautiful form of expression. Maybe I'll take lessons
when I get back to JBU. Just for fun.
There is most certainly a difference in the quality of life with
music as compared to without it. Especially making music
as opposed to not. I need to make more. I'm so thankful for
God's gift of music. Life's more colorful with it.
Monday, September 13, 2004
Secrets Secrets Are No Fun
Today was pretty good. After my Australian History class I
went to the Drumoyne house. There I studied for my
Theology with Gavin and others. The test is tomorrow. I
didn't feel like we got much done because we kept getting
side track talking. But it was fun.
Emily and Rachel are acting weird towards me. When I
first saw them in class today they sort of waved and laughed
like they knew something I didn't. Then I asked them what
they were laughing about and they said, "You'll find out
soon." Then later they kept asking me about my schedule
for this week. They are planning something but I have no
idea what. They said there's no need to worry about it. I'm
really curious about it now.
People just seem to be acting weird around me lately. I
don't know if it's all in my head or what. There was the
Emily and Rachel thing, then April walked by me and
asked if I wanted to go to Licarght (Sp?) the other student
housing where she lived. It's like people have been paying
more attention to me. I'm not sure what it is. Maybe it's me.
I mean, maybe I've changed since the choir tour and people
have noticed that I've been in a good mood about it. Who
knows, it's probably all in my head.
Choir practice was probably the highlight of my day. It was
kind of like reliving tour for a couple hours. When I saw
people I was like, "Hey I know you." I realized how many of
them I had gotten to know on tour. It was really fun. We had
a time to share thoughts about tour. Then we worked more
on O Solutaris Hostia. Incredible song. I think it's translated,
"Christ Who for Us was Slain." We will be singing in The
Gathering this Wednesday, which is like the chapel. I'm
definitely looking forward to it.
After choir I hung out on "the grassy knoll" and talked with
Jonno, Ben, Michelle, Renea, Cindy, Jackie, and Amy.
They're great people. It was kind of weird. As I was sitting
there with all of them (who were almost all Australians)
some of my American friends would walk by and kind of
look at me with them. Obviously they haven't really gotten
to know the Ausies as well as I have. It was just kind of
interesting to see people's reactions when they saw that I
got a long so well with the Australians.
I'd like to openly express my thankfulness to God for
this time. Life really doesn't get much better than this.
went to the Drumoyne house. There I studied for my
Theology with Gavin and others. The test is tomorrow. I
didn't feel like we got much done because we kept getting
side track talking. But it was fun.
Emily and Rachel are acting weird towards me. When I
first saw them in class today they sort of waved and laughed
like they knew something I didn't. Then I asked them what
they were laughing about and they said, "You'll find out
soon." Then later they kept asking me about my schedule
for this week. They are planning something but I have no
idea what. They said there's no need to worry about it. I'm
really curious about it now.
People just seem to be acting weird around me lately. I
don't know if it's all in my head or what. There was the
Emily and Rachel thing, then April walked by me and
asked if I wanted to go to Licarght (Sp?) the other student
housing where she lived. It's like people have been paying
more attention to me. I'm not sure what it is. Maybe it's me.
I mean, maybe I've changed since the choir tour and people
have noticed that I've been in a good mood about it. Who
knows, it's probably all in my head.
Choir practice was probably the highlight of my day. It was
kind of like reliving tour for a couple hours. When I saw
people I was like, "Hey I know you." I realized how many of
them I had gotten to know on tour. It was really fun. We had
a time to share thoughts about tour. Then we worked more
on O Solutaris Hostia. Incredible song. I think it's translated,
"Christ Who for Us was Slain." We will be singing in The
Gathering this Wednesday, which is like the chapel. I'm
definitely looking forward to it.
After choir I hung out on "the grassy knoll" and talked with
Jonno, Ben, Michelle, Renea, Cindy, Jackie, and Amy.
They're great people. It was kind of weird. As I was sitting
there with all of them (who were almost all Australians)
some of my American friends would walk by and kind of
look at me with them. Obviously they haven't really gotten
to know the Ausies as well as I have. It was just kind of
interesting to see people's reactions when they saw that I
got a long so well with the Australians.
I'd like to openly express my thankfulness to God for
this time. Life really doesn't get much better than this.
The Village
I went to Wesley Mission church today. It's downtown. I misread
the bus timetable and so I was very nearly late. I was getting all
worried about getting there on time. It worked out fine though.
Once again my lack of trust in God was displayed.
I went because the teaching was good the last time I went, and
I remembered that Maricka, a friend from choir, goes there. It
was good to see her again.
I studied for my Theology test today, and road bikes with Darren.
We also went to see The Village today. It was really good. But it
was an outrageous price - $14. About $10 US dollars but still,
that's a lot. And the theatre wasn't even that nice. The movie was
very well made, as to be expected. There were many beautiful
aspects including visual, mental and musical.
I'm really looking forward to choir practice tomorrow, as I always
do. We will probably learn some new songs. Plus I'll get to see
all my mates from tour.
the bus timetable and so I was very nearly late. I was getting all
worried about getting there on time. It worked out fine though.
Once again my lack of trust in God was displayed.
I went because the teaching was good the last time I went, and
I remembered that Maricka, a friend from choir, goes there. It
was good to see her again.
I studied for my Theology test today, and road bikes with Darren.
We also went to see The Village today. It was really good. But it
was an outrageous price - $14. About $10 US dollars but still,
that's a lot. And the theatre wasn't even that nice. The movie was
very well made, as to be expected. There were many beautiful
aspects including visual, mental and musical.
I'm really looking forward to choir practice tomorrow, as I always
do. We will probably learn some new songs. Plus I'll get to see
all my mates from tour.
Saturday, September 11, 2004
Goodness
Well I'm back from tour. I had an incredible time as you
might have read. I'm sort of still riding the wave from
the excitement of the tour.
Today I spent the day doing homework, uploading
pictures, and stuff like that. I talked awhile with Sean
and my family. It was very good. Sean's time at St. Olaf
is going very well. I'm very happy for him, and thankful
that my prayers are being answered. I know how scary it
might be to have to figure out classes by yourself. But
it sounds like everything went fine. He made the St. Olaf
Symphony which is awesome. I'm so excited for him and
I can't wait to go to a concert.
It really stinks, I will only get to see him for about a day
when I get back before he has to go back to school.
Major bummer. I totally want to go up there to visit.
That's so weird for Michelle now that Sean's gone. I
feel bad that we can't be more involved in her life. I
can't wait to see her again. From now on, family times
will be that much more special.
I'm going to the Wesley Mission church tomorrow. I
think Maricka, one of the girls I got to know on tour,
goes there. So hopefully I meet up with her. It's also
probably the church closest to what I'm used to. Good
teaching.
God has been so good to me and my family. This past
week in particular has been such an incredible time for
both Sean and I. I can't thank God enough.
And I just realized that even when things aren't going
well, God is still good. It's who He is. It's unfortunate
that sometimes I try to make my circumstances attest
to God's goodness.
might have read. I'm sort of still riding the wave from
the excitement of the tour.
Today I spent the day doing homework, uploading
pictures, and stuff like that. I talked awhile with Sean
and my family. It was very good. Sean's time at St. Olaf
is going very well. I'm very happy for him, and thankful
that my prayers are being answered. I know how scary it
might be to have to figure out classes by yourself. But
it sounds like everything went fine. He made the St. Olaf
Symphony which is awesome. I'm so excited for him and
I can't wait to go to a concert.
It really stinks, I will only get to see him for about a day
when I get back before he has to go back to school.
Major bummer. I totally want to go up there to visit.
That's so weird for Michelle now that Sean's gone. I
feel bad that we can't be more involved in her life. I
can't wait to see her again. From now on, family times
will be that much more special.
I'm going to the Wesley Mission church tomorrow. I
think Maricka, one of the girls I got to know on tour,
goes there. So hopefully I meet up with her. It's also
probably the church closest to what I'm used to. Good
teaching.
God has been so good to me and my family. This past
week in particular has been such an incredible time for
both Sean and I. I can't thank God enough.
And I just realized that even when things aren't going
well, God is still good. It's who He is. It's unfortunate
that sometimes I try to make my circumstances attest
to God's goodness.
Tour Log
The following is my journal entries during the choir tour. I realize the
names mean nothing to you, but it's for my sake.
Sunday September 5th
Man I'm having a ball. This is such an incredible time. Being with
people all the time is great. It might get old by the end of the week,
but right now i can't imagine it.
There was a bit of a hiccup in our trip yesterday before we left. Our
sound equipment was too heavy for the bus when combined with
the weight of everything else. So we weren't even sure if we could
still go. But through prayers and putting heads together we (the
leadership) decided to have a van follow the bus with all the
equipment. But that didn't work to well so we decided to put someone
in the van to drive it.
The time in the bus on the way here went well. We saw snow on the
ground on the way but there wasn't show in Orange, our destination.
But it was still very cold.
Our first program went this morning. It was kind of an interesting
church. It was in a movie theatre. It was weird but it works.
Later tonight we did another show. We did our Kirk Franklin song it
was pretty rockin and everyone was getting into it. The audience
looked a little stunned. Not sure if they appreciated it. We had a great
time buggen our up there.
I'm getting to know some people better including Glen Marika, Renea
and some others. It's so incredibly fun.
Monday September 6th
So it's been another incredible day on choir tour. A very long day.
I'm pretty tired and it's only 8:35. This morning Glen and I got up
and our host family took us to a grade-school in Orange (the city
we were in). We did two programs for different age groups. And we
also did a workshop with them. It's basically where Dr. Johnston
gives tips or pointers to their school choir. It all wen smoothly.
"Brighter Day" and "Never Gonna Stop" are so fun. Everybody gets
so into it. I just can't describe the feeling one gets when jammin out
on stage. With great friends no less.
There's this guy in the front row named Keith that has a mic for
"Brighter Day" and sort of interacts with the crowd. In the music score
there are words printed for speach, like "Get your bounce on" and
other "black gospel" things to say. So Keith always says that stuff.
He's kind of random and crazy sometimes. So it's always entertaining
to see what he'll do on stage. It's funny because there's not one black
person in the choir and everybody knows it's all kind of cheesy,
but we just have a good time and laugh about it. Nobody cares much
about what people think about us. It's so great.
When I first heard that we were doing Kirk Franklin gospel songs, I
was kind of put off by it. But now I love it because it's so great to
just
let loose with everyone.
I talked with a girl named Michelle a bunch today. She's cool/fun.
She's a bass player in the band that accompanies us. We had a good
chat on the bus today, on the way to Dubbo. We've never really talked
much before. I was surprised when she sat down and started a
conversation with me. I enjoyed the company.
I also talked with Renea a bunch today. These people are very kind
and accepting of me. It really means the world to me. Renea is so kind
to all.
Tuesday September 7th
I have so much to write and little time. This morning we went to the
Dubbo Zoo. It was alright. I had seen all the animals before. Friends
made it fun though. I was in a group with Shannon, Gavin, Lauren,
Loraine, Phil, Chris, and Jackie.
We did a show for the Christian school. We sang "Dawn" and had to
use music. It pretty bad, so did "Sunset."
So I'm staying with this single guy who lives by himself out in the
middle of the country. For some reason Jonathan (a choir member)
didn't want to stay with this guy so I reluctantly agreed to swap
places.
I was kind of ticked about the whole thing because it meant being alone
with this guy. Now that I look back I can see God's hand in the
situation. You see, I got to stick around at the school, where a bunch
of friends were staying, for awhile. Peter, My host, works at the school
so it worked out nicely.
Tonight was incredible at the school. It was a group of about 20. We
were in this gym/stage area. Like the whole night we listened to
music while doing things like jumping off a trampoline onto a huge
matte. It's kind of hard to explain. Everyone was just being totally
carefree and having a good time. enjoying one another's company.
It was Lisa's birthday. So we all payed 5 bucks and some people
went to the store and got some groceries. Then we had a meal
cooked by the girls.
We talked and laughed a lot around the table. And we all said what
we are thankful for. It was such a meaningful time.
Afterwards we played more games. I even learned a little about how
to play Cricket.
It wasn't until after dinner that I actually started doing stuff rather
than
just watching. Doing stuff made the time 100 times more fun. To
relax and be yourself is so freeing. Before that, for some reason, I
was too self conscious to do much.
I talked with Lisa some today. Mostly about music that we like. She's
a very nice girl and I enjoyed talking with her. But she's too
controlling for me.
There are countless little experiences that I've had where I've
experienced kindness and acceptance from all of my friends here.
That has made this tour and my whole Australian trip an experience
that is one of the best in my life. God's grace is abundant to me.
Wednesday September 8th
Today we did a lot of traveling. About 8 hours worth. But it really
didn't
seem that long. We did a lot in the bus. A lot of talking and some
games.
I got to know Jonno Dollin? more today. He's cooler than I thought.
I thought he was kind of annoying before I talked with him much,
which was unfair I suppose.
Not much else happened. It was fun to be with people on the bus.
Some of those guys are so funny. Especially Tim, Keith and Greg. There
were so many funny things that happened.
I saw a lot more of the Australian countryside today. It's beautiful.
Some
of it reminded me a lot of Colorado. Very green and hilly. There were
some fields with bright yellow flowers. It was incredible.
I saw the satellite dish that was in the movie "The Dish" from a
distance.
Thursday September 10th
This is for yesterday. I was too tired last night to write.
We did a show at a Christian school and at Lisa's home church (I think).
We're in Lisa's home town staying with her family. We had some free
time so a bunch went to the bay nearby. I decided to stay and take a nap
and shower. It felt wonderful. We didn't get a chance to shower
yesterday
morning because we slept in a church.
Not a whole happened that was very interesting yesterday. Our shows
went very well. We're getting a lot better at the Bush songs and
"O Solutaris Hostia." That son is incredible. It's so beautiful. I'm
hoping
we can sing it for out practice when my parents and sister are here.
I can't believe it's already Friday. We have three more shows today then
we go home to Sydney. As far as I'm concerned, the more shows the
better. I love "Wondrous Cross." The arrangement is so powerful. It's
especially meaningful when I can focus on Jesus when singing.
Friday September 10th
The last day was great. We did three shows. Two in schools and one in
a church. At the first school after our shows there were little kids
coming
up to us and asking for our autographs. It made us feel important.
We kind of got carried away with the first show so we had to rush to the
next school. Everyone was scrambling to tear down and then set up
again at the other school. By this time we pretty much have our songs
down pat. Therefore it's more fun and we can focus on what matters -
communication, both with God and the audience.
At the church we had left our suits on some chairs and gone to eat.
When we came back we were all getting ready to change. Gavin, a
friend of mine, started taking my suite and putting it on. I was like,
"You
know that's my suite right?" He said, "Yeah." And he just kept putting
it
on and I was like, "Dude that's my suite, what the world are you doing?"
"I'm putting on your suite." So I just kind of stood there wondering
what
was going on. And I said, "You're being goofy Gavin." And then he said,
"Oh you're being serious with me?" And he then realized that it really
was my suite. He said he thought I was just joking with him. It was
hilarious. We got a good laugh about it.
On the way back to Sydney we all shared stories on the mic in the front
of the bus. The time went so fast because we were having a great time.
It was great because everyone knew everyone and could share in all
the funny stories of things that had happened on tour. Gavin told about
our situation with the suite. Everyone laughed.
I'm sad that it's all over, but very thankful for the experience.
names mean nothing to you, but it's for my sake.
Sunday September 5th
Man I'm having a ball. This is such an incredible time. Being with
people all the time is great. It might get old by the end of the week,
but right now i can't imagine it.
There was a bit of a hiccup in our trip yesterday before we left. Our
sound equipment was too heavy for the bus when combined with
the weight of everything else. So we weren't even sure if we could
still go. But through prayers and putting heads together we (the
leadership) decided to have a van follow the bus with all the
equipment. But that didn't work to well so we decided to put someone
in the van to drive it.
The time in the bus on the way here went well. We saw snow on the
ground on the way but there wasn't show in Orange, our destination.
But it was still very cold.
Our first program went this morning. It was kind of an interesting
church. It was in a movie theatre. It was weird but it works.
Later tonight we did another show. We did our Kirk Franklin song it
was pretty rockin and everyone was getting into it. The audience
looked a little stunned. Not sure if they appreciated it. We had a great
time buggen our up there.
I'm getting to know some people better including Glen Marika, Renea
and some others. It's so incredibly fun.
Monday September 6th
So it's been another incredible day on choir tour. A very long day.
I'm pretty tired and it's only 8:35. This morning Glen and I got up
and our host family took us to a grade-school in Orange (the city
we were in). We did two programs for different age groups. And we
also did a workshop with them. It's basically where Dr. Johnston
gives tips or pointers to their school choir. It all wen smoothly.
"Brighter Day" and "Never Gonna Stop" are so fun. Everybody gets
so into it. I just can't describe the feeling one gets when jammin out
on stage. With great friends no less.
There's this guy in the front row named Keith that has a mic for
"Brighter Day" and sort of interacts with the crowd. In the music score
there are words printed for speach, like "Get your bounce on" and
other "black gospel" things to say. So Keith always says that stuff.
He's kind of random and crazy sometimes. So it's always entertaining
to see what he'll do on stage. It's funny because there's not one black
person in the choir and everybody knows it's all kind of cheesy,
but we just have a good time and laugh about it. Nobody cares much
about what people think about us. It's so great.
When I first heard that we were doing Kirk Franklin gospel songs, I
was kind of put off by it. But now I love it because it's so great to
just
let loose with everyone.
I talked with a girl named Michelle a bunch today. She's cool/fun.
She's a bass player in the band that accompanies us. We had a good
chat on the bus today, on the way to Dubbo. We've never really talked
much before. I was surprised when she sat down and started a
conversation with me. I enjoyed the company.
I also talked with Renea a bunch today. These people are very kind
and accepting of me. It really means the world to me. Renea is so kind
to all.
Tuesday September 7th
I have so much to write and little time. This morning we went to the
Dubbo Zoo. It was alright. I had seen all the animals before. Friends
made it fun though. I was in a group with Shannon, Gavin, Lauren,
Loraine, Phil, Chris, and Jackie.
We did a show for the Christian school. We sang "Dawn" and had to
use music. It pretty bad, so did "Sunset."
So I'm staying with this single guy who lives by himself out in the
middle of the country. For some reason Jonathan (a choir member)
didn't want to stay with this guy so I reluctantly agreed to swap
places.
I was kind of ticked about the whole thing because it meant being alone
with this guy. Now that I look back I can see God's hand in the
situation. You see, I got to stick around at the school, where a bunch
of friends were staying, for awhile. Peter, My host, works at the school
so it worked out nicely.
Tonight was incredible at the school. It was a group of about 20. We
were in this gym/stage area. Like the whole night we listened to
music while doing things like jumping off a trampoline onto a huge
matte. It's kind of hard to explain. Everyone was just being totally
carefree and having a good time. enjoying one another's company.
It was Lisa's birthday. So we all payed 5 bucks and some people
went to the store and got some groceries. Then we had a meal
cooked by the girls.
We talked and laughed a lot around the table. And we all said what
we are thankful for. It was such a meaningful time.
Afterwards we played more games. I even learned a little about how
to play Cricket.
It wasn't until after dinner that I actually started doing stuff rather
than
just watching. Doing stuff made the time 100 times more fun. To
relax and be yourself is so freeing. Before that, for some reason, I
was too self conscious to do much.
I talked with Lisa some today. Mostly about music that we like. She's
a very nice girl and I enjoyed talking with her. But she's too
controlling for me.
There are countless little experiences that I've had where I've
experienced kindness and acceptance from all of my friends here.
That has made this tour and my whole Australian trip an experience
that is one of the best in my life. God's grace is abundant to me.
Wednesday September 8th
Today we did a lot of traveling. About 8 hours worth. But it really
didn't
seem that long. We did a lot in the bus. A lot of talking and some
games.
I got to know Jonno Dollin? more today. He's cooler than I thought.
I thought he was kind of annoying before I talked with him much,
which was unfair I suppose.
Not much else happened. It was fun to be with people on the bus.
Some of those guys are so funny. Especially Tim, Keith and Greg. There
were so many funny things that happened.
I saw a lot more of the Australian countryside today. It's beautiful.
Some
of it reminded me a lot of Colorado. Very green and hilly. There were
some fields with bright yellow flowers. It was incredible.
I saw the satellite dish that was in the movie "The Dish" from a
distance.
Thursday September 10th
This is for yesterday. I was too tired last night to write.
We did a show at a Christian school and at Lisa's home church (I think).
We're in Lisa's home town staying with her family. We had some free
time so a bunch went to the bay nearby. I decided to stay and take a nap
and shower. It felt wonderful. We didn't get a chance to shower
yesterday
morning because we slept in a church.
Not a whole happened that was very interesting yesterday. Our shows
went very well. We're getting a lot better at the Bush songs and
"O Solutaris Hostia." That son is incredible. It's so beautiful. I'm
hoping
we can sing it for out practice when my parents and sister are here.
I can't believe it's already Friday. We have three more shows today then
we go home to Sydney. As far as I'm concerned, the more shows the
better. I love "Wondrous Cross." The arrangement is so powerful. It's
especially meaningful when I can focus on Jesus when singing.
Friday September 10th
The last day was great. We did three shows. Two in schools and one in
a church. At the first school after our shows there were little kids
coming
up to us and asking for our autographs. It made us feel important.
We kind of got carried away with the first show so we had to rush to the
next school. Everyone was scrambling to tear down and then set up
again at the other school. By this time we pretty much have our songs
down pat. Therefore it's more fun and we can focus on what matters -
communication, both with God and the audience.
At the church we had left our suits on some chairs and gone to eat.
When we came back we were all getting ready to change. Gavin, a
friend of mine, started taking my suite and putting it on. I was like,
"You
know that's my suite right?" He said, "Yeah." And he just kept putting
it
on and I was like, "Dude that's my suite, what the world are you doing?"
"I'm putting on your suite." So I just kind of stood there wondering
what
was going on. And I said, "You're being goofy Gavin." And then he said,
"Oh you're being serious with me?" And he then realized that it really
was my suite. He said he thought I was just joking with him. It was
hilarious. We got a good laugh about it.
On the way back to Sydney we all shared stories on the mic in the front
of the bus. The time went so fast because we were having a great time.
It was great because everyone knew everyone and could share in all
the funny stories of things that had happened on tour. Gavin told about
our situation with the suite. Everyone laughed.
I'm sad that it's all over, but very thankful for the experience.
Friday, September 03, 2004
Father of Lights
I'm so excited! Tomorrow I'm leaving for choir tour. It's going to be
so great. We get to ride in a big coach bus and stay with families. And
I have a great book (The Testament) and great music
and new Chuck Missler stuff to listen to. And it'll be cool to get to
know people better. Like it seems like the girls are the only mature
ones. But I guess there are guys I haven't talked with much yet.
Darren's already gone to Cans (sp?) so it's kind of boring around here.
And I didn't have classes today so that didn't help. But I did get a
lot done on my video dissection assignment which is due the week after
I get back. So I felt good about that.
I rode my bike to the mall today. It was nice to get out of the house.
Most of the roads are pretty busy. You're not supposed to ride on the
sidewalk so I tried to ride on the road most of the time. It was kind
of scary but also exciting to ride amongst all the traffic. Don't worry
Mom, I had a helmet on. It's the law here. But it was fun. I was Mr.
Independent.
I had to get a Bow Tie for choir and a birthday card for Wendy amongst
other things. I hate getting cards. None of them are very satisfying.
I had wanted to go see "The Village" today. It came out yesterday here.
But I decided to stay home and make sure I have everything ready for
tomorrow. I can't wait.
I was reading in James last night. Chapter 1 verse 17 stuck out to me.
It says, "Every good thing given and every perfect gift is from above,
coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation
or shifting shadow." Doesn't that just sound awesome? Particularly
"Father of lights." I wonder what exactly that means. I'll bet there's
so much more to it than just 'father of good things' or something like
that. I wonder what relationship between light and God there really is.
Light, as studied by physicists, has never been understood. And also,
time. It seems to me that light, God, and time must somehow all work
together.
Have you ever wondered if God IS light? I don't mean just like a figure
of speech, but really light? Like maybe some part of His being is light
as we know it. That's perhaps why it's so weird and hard to understand.
I called Michelle last night to wish her a happy birthday. It was
really good to talk with her. I miss her so. She seems so aware. More
than I was at that age.
To my family, have a good trip.
To Sean, I'm praying for you.
To all, have a good week. I'll be back this time next week.
so great. We get to ride in a big coach bus and stay with families. And
I have a great book (The Testament) and great music
and new Chuck Missler stuff to listen to. And it'll be cool to get to
know people better. Like it seems like the girls are the only mature
ones. But I guess there are guys I haven't talked with much yet.
Darren's already gone to Cans (sp?) so it's kind of boring around here.
And I didn't have classes today so that didn't help. But I did get a
lot done on my video dissection assignment which is due the week after
I get back. So I felt good about that.
I rode my bike to the mall today. It was nice to get out of the house.
Most of the roads are pretty busy. You're not supposed to ride on the
sidewalk so I tried to ride on the road most of the time. It was kind
of scary but also exciting to ride amongst all the traffic. Don't worry
Mom, I had a helmet on. It's the law here. But it was fun. I was Mr.
Independent.
I had to get a Bow Tie for choir and a birthday card for Wendy amongst
other things. I hate getting cards. None of them are very satisfying.
I had wanted to go see "The Village" today. It came out yesterday here.
But I decided to stay home and make sure I have everything ready for
tomorrow. I can't wait.
I was reading in James last night. Chapter 1 verse 17 stuck out to me.
It says, "Every good thing given and every perfect gift is from above,
coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation
or shifting shadow." Doesn't that just sound awesome? Particularly
"Father of lights." I wonder what exactly that means. I'll bet there's
so much more to it than just 'father of good things' or something like
that. I wonder what relationship between light and God there really is.
Light, as studied by physicists, has never been understood. And also,
time. It seems to me that light, God, and time must somehow all work
together.
Have you ever wondered if God IS light? I don't mean just like a figure
of speech, but really light? Like maybe some part of His being is light
as we know it. That's perhaps why it's so weird and hard to understand.
I called Michelle last night to wish her a happy birthday. It was
really good to talk with her. I miss her so. She seems so aware. More
than I was at that age.
To my family, have a good trip.
To Sean, I'm praying for you.
To all, have a good week. I'll be back this time next week.
Thursday, September 02, 2004
Michelle's Birthday
First of all I want to wish my sister Michelle a happy 12th birthday.
It is really hard to believe she's twelve already. I love her so much
and am very proud of her. I wish I could give her a big hug right now.
XOXOXOXO
I had to get up early today for choir practice. I always look forward
to it. It's usually pretty fun. I still don't feel like we know our
songs well enough. But it'll have to do. You could tell Dr. Johnston,
the director wasn't feeling very good about how much we knew the songs.
He kind of had this worried look and didn't say much. We really need
like another week of practicing. Oh well, as they say, no worries.
I read in the news the other day about the bus bombing in Israel. When
I saw the pictures it was almost eery to me because the bus looked
exactly like the kind I ride every day. I started to think about what
it would be like to have that happen. Obviously I can't fully imagine
it because terrorism is so foreign to me personally. It's always so
distant and unreal when it's on TV. But this time it hit a little bit
closer to home.
I was talking with a girl named Amber today about what we're doing for
breaks and about when we're leaving. We started talking about how sad
it will be to leave. Like we've gotten to know so many people and when
we leave we will probably never see them again. Most of them live on
the coasts. And we'll probably never be able to all get together as a
group again. Man it's really depressing to think about. Not counting
the breaks, next week will be the half way point. Unbelievable.
I checked out "The Testament" by John Grisham at the school library.
I've read a few chapters. It's really good so far. It's a monster of a
book though. Hopefully I can finish it before it's due back (I'm a slow
reader).
Tomorrow night will probably be the last time I'll post before choir
tour. I don't think I'll be able to post while I'm away unless I decide
to take my computer and find a place to hook up. However I will try to
write my thoughts in some way and then post them when I get back. That
won't be till Friday night of next week though.
Have a wonderful Birthday Michelle. I love you.
It is really hard to believe she's twelve already. I love her so much
and am very proud of her. I wish I could give her a big hug right now.
XOXOXOXO
I had to get up early today for choir practice. I always look forward
to it. It's usually pretty fun. I still don't feel like we know our
songs well enough. But it'll have to do. You could tell Dr. Johnston,
the director wasn't feeling very good about how much we knew the songs.
He kind of had this worried look and didn't say much. We really need
like another week of practicing. Oh well, as they say, no worries.
I read in the news the other day about the bus bombing in Israel. When
I saw the pictures it was almost eery to me because the bus looked
exactly like the kind I ride every day. I started to think about what
it would be like to have that happen. Obviously I can't fully imagine
it because terrorism is so foreign to me personally. It's always so
distant and unreal when it's on TV. But this time it hit a little bit
closer to home.
I was talking with a girl named Amber today about what we're doing for
breaks and about when we're leaving. We started talking about how sad
it will be to leave. Like we've gotten to know so many people and when
we leave we will probably never see them again. Most of them live on
the coasts. And we'll probably never be able to all get together as a
group again. Man it's really depressing to think about. Not counting
the breaks, next week will be the half way point. Unbelievable.
I checked out "The Testament" by John Grisham at the school library.
I've read a few chapters. It's really good so far. It's a monster of a
book though. Hopefully I can finish it before it's due back (I'm a slow
reader).
Tomorrow night will probably be the last time I'll post before choir
tour. I don't think I'll be able to post while I'm away unless I decide
to take my computer and find a place to hook up. However I will try to
write my thoughts in some way and then post them when I get back. That
won't be till Friday night of next week though.
Have a wonderful Birthday Michelle. I love you.
Wednesday, September 01, 2004
Packed Van
I got a haircut yesterday. Today was the first day that
everyone really saw it. I was surprised at how many
comments I got. Everyone seemed to notice. I guess
it was because it was such a big change, it had been
getting pretty long. I thought the cut was too short as I
normally do after a haircut. But a lot of people said they
liked it.
For chapel today we had a speaker that introduced us
to a "new method of worship." I don't remember what
she called it but it was like a scenario we went through
while rubbing our neighbors back, if that makes any cents.
It was like a story where we rub each other's backs
according to what's going on in the story. I was sitting next
to a guy and a girl. It was kind of awkward. I didn't really
know the guy and the girl was... a girl. Despite it's
awkwardness it did feel really good to have a message.
It's been awhile.
Tonight we had our weekly meeting with all the Americans.
It was a good time. It's always really fun and extra
meaningful to sing praise songs together in that group.
It's going to be really sad to have to leave everyone at
the end of the semester.
After the meeting, Dr. Johnston was going to take all of us
to our houses. He's always really nice like that. We walked
back to the school which was nearby and got into the van
there. I think the van holds about 13 people legally. There
were 23 of us. We all piled in. We were crammed and
everyone was laughing and being loud. It was actually quite
fun. It was one of those vans that has a really high ceiling.
So a bunch of us were actually standing up. Probably not
too safe. Nothing happened though.
Dr. Johnston is so good at corny jokes. Remind me to tell
you one of them.
I was able to talk with Derrick and Luke for a little before the
meeting. It's a shame that I don't get to see them much,
except at school when we're passing each other between
classes. Those guys are so great. It's hard to explain. I love
just joking around with them. They're two great friends that I
really admire. I feel like I know Derrick a little better than Luke
but I'm getting to know him too. I love talking with them about
real issues that we all go through. It seems like it's a lot easier
to talk with them about deep issues than it is with some people.
By deep I mainly mean spiritual.
We always call Luke the gov'na, short for governor, because
he's the ASC representative. It's so funny. Derrick came up
with that. Like it sounds stupid but it's funny. Derrick started
calling him that and now everyone knows him as it. A lot of
stuff like that goes on that I can't really explain. I wish I could.
You just have to experience it to understand. But it's great fun.
Relationships make or break life.
everyone really saw it. I was surprised at how many
comments I got. Everyone seemed to notice. I guess
it was because it was such a big change, it had been
getting pretty long. I thought the cut was too short as I
normally do after a haircut. But a lot of people said they
liked it.
For chapel today we had a speaker that introduced us
to a "new method of worship." I don't remember what
she called it but it was like a scenario we went through
while rubbing our neighbors back, if that makes any cents.
It was like a story where we rub each other's backs
according to what's going on in the story. I was sitting next
to a guy and a girl. It was kind of awkward. I didn't really
know the guy and the girl was... a girl. Despite it's
awkwardness it did feel really good to have a message.
It's been awhile.
Tonight we had our weekly meeting with all the Americans.
It was a good time. It's always really fun and extra
meaningful to sing praise songs together in that group.
It's going to be really sad to have to leave everyone at
the end of the semester.
After the meeting, Dr. Johnston was going to take all of us
to our houses. He's always really nice like that. We walked
back to the school which was nearby and got into the van
there. I think the van holds about 13 people legally. There
were 23 of us. We all piled in. We were crammed and
everyone was laughing and being loud. It was actually quite
fun. It was one of those vans that has a really high ceiling.
So a bunch of us were actually standing up. Probably not
too safe. Nothing happened though.
Dr. Johnston is so good at corny jokes. Remind me to tell
you one of them.
I was able to talk with Derrick and Luke for a little before the
meeting. It's a shame that I don't get to see them much,
except at school when we're passing each other between
classes. Those guys are so great. It's hard to explain. I love
just joking around with them. They're two great friends that I
really admire. I feel like I know Derrick a little better than Luke
but I'm getting to know him too. I love talking with them about
real issues that we all go through. It seems like it's a lot easier
to talk with them about deep issues than it is with some people.
By deep I mainly mean spiritual.
We always call Luke the gov'na, short for governor, because
he's the ASC representative. It's so funny. Derrick came up
with that. Like it sounds stupid but it's funny. Derrick started
calling him that and now everyone knows him as it. A lot of
stuff like that goes on that I can't really explain. I wish I could.
You just have to experience it to understand. But it's great fun.
Relationships make or break life.
Tuesday, August 31, 2004
I Need Another Book
I finished "The Magicians' Nephew" by C.S. Lewis today. It's
the first book in the Chronicles of Narnia series. It was pretty
good, but not incredible. It seemed slightly geared toward
children. I do really like the magical imaginary worlds that
Lewis comes up with. It's really cool to be able to retreat to a
place like that in you mind. I'm not sure if I'll continue in the
series. Maybe once I can get them at home, if we have them.
But now I need to find another book. I really don't want to buy
one. Especially when we have so many great books at home
that I can get for free. Maybe I'll go to our school library or
something. Whatever I do I need to do it before I leave for choir
tour.
In my theology 2 class today, we talked more about Calvinism
verses Arminianism. It's good stuff. I really like my teacher. He's
a real down to earth, thoughtful guy. He's probably only in his
thirties but he's really smart. And he'll listen to your thoughts or
ideas with respect and try his best to help you understand. I agree
with most all of his views too. He holds to the calvinist viewpoint.
The more I hear him talk about it the more I'm sure that that's what
I believe. We have a pretty good class. People just ask questions
freely and truly try to understand God's word.
So I'm trying to stop popping my joints. hehe Bet you're glad to hear
that. It's pretty hard to get out of the habit. But I'm going to prove
to
myself that I can do it if I try hard enough.
I'd just like to say that sleep is great. I'm so thankful for this
particular
goodness that God has given to mankind. It's like, you can be in your
own little world, away from all that's annoying and worrisome. This
is most certainly something that one can look forward to every day.
Even if you have nothing else going for you.
And with that, I'm off to bed.
the first book in the Chronicles of Narnia series. It was pretty
good, but not incredible. It seemed slightly geared toward
children. I do really like the magical imaginary worlds that
Lewis comes up with. It's really cool to be able to retreat to a
place like that in you mind. I'm not sure if I'll continue in the
series. Maybe once I can get them at home, if we have them.
But now I need to find another book. I really don't want to buy
one. Especially when we have so many great books at home
that I can get for free. Maybe I'll go to our school library or
something. Whatever I do I need to do it before I leave for choir
tour.
In my theology 2 class today, we talked more about Calvinism
verses Arminianism. It's good stuff. I really like my teacher. He's
a real down to earth, thoughtful guy. He's probably only in his
thirties but he's really smart. And he'll listen to your thoughts or
ideas with respect and try his best to help you understand. I agree
with most all of his views too. He holds to the calvinist viewpoint.
The more I hear him talk about it the more I'm sure that that's what
I believe. We have a pretty good class. People just ask questions
freely and truly try to understand God's word.
So I'm trying to stop popping my joints. hehe Bet you're glad to hear
that. It's pretty hard to get out of the habit. But I'm going to prove
to
myself that I can do it if I try hard enough.
I'd just like to say that sleep is great. I'm so thankful for this
particular
goodness that God has given to mankind. It's like, you can be in your
own little world, away from all that's annoying and worrisome. This
is most certainly something that one can look forward to every day.
Even if you have nothing else going for you.
And with that, I'm off to bed.
Monday, August 30, 2004
Roommate Woes
I don't know what it is but Darren's been getting on my
nerves lately. It's kind of hard to explain but you've probably
all experienced someone like him before. For example,
he tends to exaggerate things and even stretch the truth
just to get a good reaction from people. Also, he's not very
sensitive to other's feelings. I know I have my huge faults too,
but right now it's a lot easier to see his.
I'm tired of trying to act like something's funny or act a certain
way just to "please" or satisfy his humor. Know what I mean?
I'm just going to laugh at what's funny and not at what's not.
He's not going to rule over me. Another thing, I'm tired of
letting him look down on me, just because I don't like his R&B
crap or I don't think a perverted movie is funny. Or because I
like healthy cereal and not the sweet stuff all the time. This is
probably sounding really immature and dumb. But I'd just like
to vent a little. I'm really not that upset, I just want to be free of
what he or others think of me.
We had our second to last choir rehearsal before tour today.
I don't think we have our songs down very good. I really really
hope we don't have to cut some of the good classical ones.
There's this latin one that's so pretty. And some others called,
Australian Bush Songs. I will be so disappointed if we have to
cut those for tour.
We are going to ride our bikes to school tomorrow. Hopefully
we'll manage on the busy roads alright.
Sean is leaving for school very soon. I'm very happy for him but
also very sad for me. Life will never be the same. We'll never get
back to our happy carefree childhood again. There will obviously
be good times ahead, but nothing the same.
nerves lately. It's kind of hard to explain but you've probably
all experienced someone like him before. For example,
he tends to exaggerate things and even stretch the truth
just to get a good reaction from people. Also, he's not very
sensitive to other's feelings. I know I have my huge faults too,
but right now it's a lot easier to see his.
I'm tired of trying to act like something's funny or act a certain
way just to "please" or satisfy his humor. Know what I mean?
I'm just going to laugh at what's funny and not at what's not.
He's not going to rule over me. Another thing, I'm tired of
letting him look down on me, just because I don't like his R&B
crap or I don't think a perverted movie is funny. Or because I
like healthy cereal and not the sweet stuff all the time. This is
probably sounding really immature and dumb. But I'd just like
to vent a little. I'm really not that upset, I just want to be free of
what he or others think of me.
We had our second to last choir rehearsal before tour today.
I don't think we have our songs down very good. I really really
hope we don't have to cut some of the good classical ones.
There's this latin one that's so pretty. And some others called,
Australian Bush Songs. I will be so disappointed if we have to
cut those for tour.
We are going to ride our bikes to school tomorrow. Hopefully
we'll manage on the busy roads alright.
Sean is leaving for school very soon. I'm very happy for him but
also very sad for me. Life will never be the same. We'll never get
back to our happy carefree childhood again. There will obviously
be good times ahead, but nothing the same.
Sunday, August 29, 2004
--->something clever<---
As I was telling Sean, God becomes so great and exciting
when you are able to separate Him from going to church or
doing the right thing. I get so tired of thinking of God in such
a legalistic way. It becomes so freeing when I remember
Him as a relationship. He's so much cooler when He's not
limited by mere Sunday school like stories.
It's also extremely freeing to have an eternal perspective.
These are some thoughts that I like to dwell on because of
the hope that it gives me.
I went to Hillsong church, the one in Hills. It is one of their
main locations. It's pretty big. It probably holds a few thousand
people. I'm not so sure about that church. Here are a few of my
complaints:
1. It seems like they are more focused on numbers and events
than real spiritual growth.
2. They don't seem to take their "message" directly from the Bible.
They seem to take their own ideas and conform the Bible around
them.
3. They put a huge emphasis on supernatural physical healing.
They said that Christ died to free us from our sins and also from
our physical ailments quoting "...by who's stripes you are healed."
I've never heard this before, and thus don't think I agree with it.
I'm certainly not denying God's power of diseases, but I don't go so
far as to say that Christ died to take them away. What's the point of
that? God could have done that without dying. Please let me know
if I'm off my rocker.
On the free shuttle to Hillsong, we met a girl from Fayetville Arkansas.
Isn't that crazy? We just happened to sit next to her. She said she
noticed our accent and decided to ask where we're from.
I've been trying to remember that God's agenda is what's important,
not mine. Especially when praying and during my quiet time. I must
listen more. But it's hard to hear Him. At least my mind tells me so.
when you are able to separate Him from going to church or
doing the right thing. I get so tired of thinking of God in such
a legalistic way. It becomes so freeing when I remember
Him as a relationship. He's so much cooler when He's not
limited by mere Sunday school like stories.
It's also extremely freeing to have an eternal perspective.
These are some thoughts that I like to dwell on because of
the hope that it gives me.
I went to Hillsong church, the one in Hills. It is one of their
main locations. It's pretty big. It probably holds a few thousand
people. I'm not so sure about that church. Here are a few of my
complaints:
1. It seems like they are more focused on numbers and events
than real spiritual growth.
2. They don't seem to take their "message" directly from the Bible.
They seem to take their own ideas and conform the Bible around
them.
3. They put a huge emphasis on supernatural physical healing.
They said that Christ died to free us from our sins and also from
our physical ailments quoting "...by who's stripes you are healed."
I've never heard this before, and thus don't think I agree with it.
I'm certainly not denying God's power of diseases, but I don't go so
far as to say that Christ died to take them away. What's the point of
that? God could have done that without dying. Please let me know
if I'm off my rocker.
On the free shuttle to Hillsong, we met a girl from Fayetville Arkansas.
Isn't that crazy? We just happened to sit next to her. She said she
noticed our accent and decided to ask where we're from.
I've been trying to remember that God's agenda is what's important,
not mine. Especially when praying and during my quiet time. I must
listen more. But it's hard to hear Him. At least my mind tells me so.
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