Recently I have had the opportunity to re-discover myself through countless hours of soul searching and watching Scrubs. Once again, my favorite doctor is in my head, and his voice narrating my life is so much more pleasant than Sarah Jessica Parker’s. I know that’s odd, as his is a masculine voice, and the voice in my head should be a girl. But that’s the point of a narrator, isn’t it? Isn’t that why some authors are so good at writing books about the opposite sex? Don’t you remember Stranger than Fiction?
Well, a few months back when I was watching Scrubs, JD was dating a girl who liked “drama.” She got bored in a normal relationship, and so he was always trying to make up dramatic issues for the two of them to face as a couple.
Well, I was thinking about that last night. First of all, as a person, I obviously like drama. I’m always trying to spice up my life and make it more interesting. Take my little fairy tales as an example. Now, I’m generally happy, and with or without daydreaming, I enjoy myself. I remember telling my senior that the audit, “Would be so exciting if it was exciting.” He needed a bit of an explanation on that one. See, I found the audit dramatic – like a high speed car chase. But I knew that I would be alone, or at least in a minority, with that opinion.
Well, that’s my personal drama. Going back to Scrubs, I thought about the couple’s relationship. I think every relationship starts off with a little bit of drama. “Does he?” “Doesn’t she?” “Will he?” “What is this?” And so on. And you always hear about seasoned couples trying to “bring back the romance” in their lives. Isn’t that what romance is all about? Romance = surprises = suspense = drama. So really, JD and his girl weren’t all that unique in trying to add drama to their relationship. I suppose she just required a higher level than most people.
Now, there’s a spiritual side to all of this, believe it or not. In fact, that’s actually where I began thinking about all of this. See, I think we all have that same drama issue with God. So many times I have heard a version of, “It’s in the tough times that we rely on God!” “When things are going well, I don’t think about God, but when they go poorly…”
Taking my own personal “way too much faith” issue out of this, I’d say we all – even agnostics and atheists – play this drama game with God. Someone about to die – prays. Whether for physical safety or spiritual renewal, we all run to God in the hard times! Now, we can also run to him in the good times – when everything’s going well, it’s so easy to praise God in or out of church!
We hear a lot about spiritual peaks and troughs, but what about sitting on the side of the hill? How’s our relationship with God then? I actually found myself “creating” drama in my life so I could take it to God. When what I used to talk to Him about was obsolete, I created messes to take to Him.
I suppose that’s good in its way. If my life is perfect, I can always pray about other people’s. And, of course, give God thanks. I’d like to think it doesn’t take a gun literally pointed to my head to force me to pray.
But look at it from God’s perspective. He wants us to come to Him. To bring everything to Him, big or small. To praise Him through thick and thin. So I suppose a little drama, made up or not, can only serve to strengthen the relationship, and if we can train ourselves to go to Him when we need him most, perhaps we will learn that we can count on Him when it’s smooth sailing as well.
Sunday, December 30, 2007
Saturday, December 29, 2007
On Children and Travel
It seems to me that on every flight there is a crying or fussy baby. Don’t get my wrong, I’m not trying to complain here. My purpose in pointing this out is slightly more intellectual – is the baby fussy because it’s tired/hungry/wet/etc. and that’s just what babies do? Or is the baby in pain? I mean, when you fly, the air pressure changes, and you have to do that thing with your ears where you stop them up and exhale to equalize the pressure. I’ve also been told that chewing gum helps. The solution is almost second nature. But do babies have the capacity to do that? I mean, I know you can’t sit and rationalize with the child, “Now, plug your nose and exhale, but gently!” I wonder, then, if the fussiness comes from pain!
Of course, all this thinking about babies on flights. When I hear a fussy baby, my first instinct is the thought of the single person, “Why would you bring a baby on an airplane?” In fact, there are times when I wonder why you would take a baby out in public at all. Unfortunately, that’s almost how it works – parents go to great lengths to find sitters and double up on errands, and go through drive thrus. Babies are a lot of work.
Now, the compassionate side of me, small as it is, started arguing with this. Let’s say we take my route, though. Never take a baby on an airplane (it’s a waste of money, too! I mean, paying for a ticket for something so small!) So you travel only to places within driving distance (in my family, that means anywhere in the US) until the child is old enough to know the meaning of the phrase, “Stop crying right now!” Well, from what I’ve heard, driving with babies isn’t much less of a headache for you – it’s just that you are the only ones who benefit from the high pitched communications of your darling child.
So now what? Well, pharmacists have long advocated (when asked by inquisitive technicians) the use of Benadryl to put the children to sleep. Then I wonder – don’t tired children get crabby? If the medicine only halfway works, won’t that cause the problem to get worse? Not to mention – even though it’s safe, now we’re drugging our children.
What’s my point? I don’t think I have one. I think all this thinking is making me more tolerant of children while traveling. So that’s a plus. (And the question really then becomes something else entirely: would you put your toddler on a leash?) Then again, if tolerance is what you’re looking for, you could follow the lead of the lady beside me and drug yourself up – with vodka.
Of course, all this thinking about babies on flights. When I hear a fussy baby, my first instinct is the thought of the single person, “Why would you bring a baby on an airplane?” In fact, there are times when I wonder why you would take a baby out in public at all. Unfortunately, that’s almost how it works – parents go to great lengths to find sitters and double up on errands, and go through drive thrus. Babies are a lot of work.
Now, the compassionate side of me, small as it is, started arguing with this. Let’s say we take my route, though. Never take a baby on an airplane (it’s a waste of money, too! I mean, paying for a ticket for something so small!) So you travel only to places within driving distance (in my family, that means anywhere in the US) until the child is old enough to know the meaning of the phrase, “Stop crying right now!” Well, from what I’ve heard, driving with babies isn’t much less of a headache for you – it’s just that you are the only ones who benefit from the high pitched communications of your darling child.
So now what? Well, pharmacists have long advocated (when asked by inquisitive technicians) the use of Benadryl to put the children to sleep. Then I wonder – don’t tired children get crabby? If the medicine only halfway works, won’t that cause the problem to get worse? Not to mention – even though it’s safe, now we’re drugging our children.
What’s my point? I don’t think I have one. I think all this thinking is making me more tolerant of children while traveling. So that’s a plus. (And the question really then becomes something else entirely: would you put your toddler on a leash?) Then again, if tolerance is what you’re looking for, you could follow the lead of the lady beside me and drug yourself up – with vodka.
Thursday, December 20, 2007
The Sherlock Holmes of Auditing
The time has come to give a shout out to the Angel of Auditing, that Sherlock Holmes of Equity, my unofficial semi-mentor and he who will be considered my true manager for many months hence: Brad (but not Bradley!)
A few months ago I actually wrote about Brad on this blog – I called him my angel, because he was literally the answer to a prayer. Now, I am very free with where I give God credit for answering prayers, and I doubt he would hold it against me (I mean, if God gets the credit, he gets the praise and thanks, too), and better to overdo it than underdo it. However, it’s the people who can get skeptical sometimes, so I’m just going to reiterate the fact, and hope people believe me.
So I’ll continue the story – I thought Brad was an answer to a prayer because he gave me work to do. But it was so much more than that! Until I met him, I hadn’t really been assigned to a “team.” I was working on the A/P search with a senior, but she was very busy, and we were always waiting on the client, so it wasn’t really a full time task.
With Brad, it was different. I thought at first that, as a manager, he was concerned with making sure employees actually worked while on the clock. What a concept! And thus, he was very good about making sure I had work. However, as time passed, I came to realize that I was part of a team. His team.
See, it was like this. Brad, Ryan, and I were sitting in facilities. Three people thrown together by forces beyond our control. (OK, Brad and Ryan actually knew they were working together, and I’m beginning to assume that it was at that point that some higher-up “assigned” me to Brad as his associate). As Ryan was leaving, Brad found himself giving me more and more tasks – trying to keep them within my level.
That’s how I ended up working on quarters. Everyone told me how hard they were and that they were “senior” stuff. I’m sure a real senior would have knocked them out much faster, and they came back with lots of comments and questions. But that’s what training’s about!
Anyway, I saw Brad through three consecutive seniors, and I almost saw the third leave! However, life is cruel, and it was actually I who had to leave the Equity team first. But enough about my little story – this is a tribute to Brad.
Why do I call him the Sherlock Holmes of auditing? Well, it used to be because he was smart. I mean, auditing in general is like solving a mystery – you look at the clues and piece the puzzle together. But Sherlock Holmes had this uncanny ability to see things others didn’t – House is another good example. I mean, I’m talking about brilliant people here! My manager was constantly asking the “right” question – so right that it seemed he was very lucky in uncovering many audit issues.
He had this ability to go to anyone – me, the client, partners – and explain why a certain accounting issue didn’t work. I saw him break down accounting back to the basics over and over again. He knew the audit process. He applied logic in a way that made it easy for him to adapt to a different environment.
Now Brad also had attitude – and I liked that about him. Yeah, he cussed like a sailor and had the accent of a mobster. In fact, if I was going to cast him in a movie, I would probably pick Danny DeVito (only because I don’t know a lot of movie star names, but if I ever find a better example, I’ll pick him).
He was, however, very kind to me. I think that he was slightly afraid I’d quit on him, too. However, I also think that, as with partners, managers realize that they are two levels up, and therefore, there’s a buffer. I mean, everyone makes mistakes, and at the associate level, there’s so much more to learn that it’s not worth harping on every little mistake. Sometimes he needed to rant – not at me – but I suppose my level with the firm kind of always made me a captive audience to it. J
Finally, our last encounter solidified him as that Sherlock Holmes. There was something I had forgotten about my role model, and Brad reminded me of it. I was less than thrilled at the prospect of leaving Chicago and the audit. Further, I really did enjoy working on the Equity team. Hoping that demand for “resources” from other offices would continue, I asked him if he had any other jobs that needed people. His answer did not surprise me – no, it was too expensive to bring in out-of-towners. But the next statement did. “I can’t allow myself to get emotionally involved.”
And there it was. The analogy was complete. This manager was as stoic as the great detective himself. And it was ironic that the last-ish words I heard from my mentor would be so useful to me. Little did I know at the time just how right he was – that my emotional involvement with this client contributed to my inability to accept my new client and move on.
And that’s the point – in auditing things change so quickly. We can’t be normal accountants – we have to fight against every cell in our bodies that are screaming out to leave well enough alone. I loved everything about that client – my coworkers, the building, making fun of the security guard, the learning experience, the city. But in the end, a piece of my soul was left behind, and there’s no one left to catch it anymore!
And so, here’s to my manager – the Sherlock Holmes of auditing – who started me on the path of auditing inspiration and reminded me of who I am.
A few months ago I actually wrote about Brad on this blog – I called him my angel, because he was literally the answer to a prayer. Now, I am very free with where I give God credit for answering prayers, and I doubt he would hold it against me (I mean, if God gets the credit, he gets the praise and thanks, too), and better to overdo it than underdo it. However, it’s the people who can get skeptical sometimes, so I’m just going to reiterate the fact, and hope people believe me.
So I’ll continue the story – I thought Brad was an answer to a prayer because he gave me work to do. But it was so much more than that! Until I met him, I hadn’t really been assigned to a “team.” I was working on the A/P search with a senior, but she was very busy, and we were always waiting on the client, so it wasn’t really a full time task.
With Brad, it was different. I thought at first that, as a manager, he was concerned with making sure employees actually worked while on the clock. What a concept! And thus, he was very good about making sure I had work. However, as time passed, I came to realize that I was part of a team. His team.
See, it was like this. Brad, Ryan, and I were sitting in facilities. Three people thrown together by forces beyond our control. (OK, Brad and Ryan actually knew they were working together, and I’m beginning to assume that it was at that point that some higher-up “assigned” me to Brad as his associate). As Ryan was leaving, Brad found himself giving me more and more tasks – trying to keep them within my level.
That’s how I ended up working on quarters. Everyone told me how hard they were and that they were “senior” stuff. I’m sure a real senior would have knocked them out much faster, and they came back with lots of comments and questions. But that’s what training’s about!
Anyway, I saw Brad through three consecutive seniors, and I almost saw the third leave! However, life is cruel, and it was actually I who had to leave the Equity team first. But enough about my little story – this is a tribute to Brad.
Why do I call him the Sherlock Holmes of auditing? Well, it used to be because he was smart. I mean, auditing in general is like solving a mystery – you look at the clues and piece the puzzle together. But Sherlock Holmes had this uncanny ability to see things others didn’t – House is another good example. I mean, I’m talking about brilliant people here! My manager was constantly asking the “right” question – so right that it seemed he was very lucky in uncovering many audit issues.
He had this ability to go to anyone – me, the client, partners – and explain why a certain accounting issue didn’t work. I saw him break down accounting back to the basics over and over again. He knew the audit process. He applied logic in a way that made it easy for him to adapt to a different environment.
Now Brad also had attitude – and I liked that about him. Yeah, he cussed like a sailor and had the accent of a mobster. In fact, if I was going to cast him in a movie, I would probably pick Danny DeVito (only because I don’t know a lot of movie star names, but if I ever find a better example, I’ll pick him).
He was, however, very kind to me. I think that he was slightly afraid I’d quit on him, too. However, I also think that, as with partners, managers realize that they are two levels up, and therefore, there’s a buffer. I mean, everyone makes mistakes, and at the associate level, there’s so much more to learn that it’s not worth harping on every little mistake. Sometimes he needed to rant – not at me – but I suppose my level with the firm kind of always made me a captive audience to it. J
Finally, our last encounter solidified him as that Sherlock Holmes. There was something I had forgotten about my role model, and Brad reminded me of it. I was less than thrilled at the prospect of leaving Chicago and the audit. Further, I really did enjoy working on the Equity team. Hoping that demand for “resources” from other offices would continue, I asked him if he had any other jobs that needed people. His answer did not surprise me – no, it was too expensive to bring in out-of-towners. But the next statement did. “I can’t allow myself to get emotionally involved.”
And there it was. The analogy was complete. This manager was as stoic as the great detective himself. And it was ironic that the last-ish words I heard from my mentor would be so useful to me. Little did I know at the time just how right he was – that my emotional involvement with this client contributed to my inability to accept my new client and move on.
And that’s the point – in auditing things change so quickly. We can’t be normal accountants – we have to fight against every cell in our bodies that are screaming out to leave well enough alone. I loved everything about that client – my coworkers, the building, making fun of the security guard, the learning experience, the city. But in the end, a piece of my soul was left behind, and there’s no one left to catch it anymore!
And so, here’s to my manager – the Sherlock Holmes of auditing – who started me on the path of auditing inspiration and reminded me of who I am.
Tuesday, December 18, 2007
The Fairy Tale of the Star
There I was, standing in the presence of all the highest nobles of the land – each a conqueror of his own little plot of land, and each sufficiently able on his own. There was the Wight Knight of the Aging Forest with his squire Douggles. There was Messieur Rory of Tandem Row, London. There was Foster Foster, the Black Knight, and finally, His Excellency Robert, leader of the Knights.
I had ended up in the great hall of Doom Mansion after my knight had recommended me as a possible page girl for the great nobles. There I stood, day in and day out, waiting for Messieur Rory to ask me to send out a message of triumph, loving and fearing the wrath of His Excellency, and daydreaming about the Wight Knight.
My daydreaming interludes were interrupted frequently by two major characters, that should each be given ample introduction. The first was the Red Witch of the South by Southeast. She had entered the Great Hall under false pretences, telling Foster Foster and His Excellency that she was there to help. And help she did. However, her bid for power and lust of attention was insatiable. Within minutes she had cast the entire Great Hall under her spell. Even His Excellency cowered at her displeasured gaze. She took a liking to me early on, however, when I refused to perform one of her works of black magic, she turned on me. After that, she was full of icy and bitter words. She would cast spells to turn my hot drinks into cubes of ice, boil foul smelling potions in her corner of the room, and file her nails into points while smiling menacingly at me.
On the other hand, there was Sir Rupert Livingston, also known as “The Sherlock Holmes of Auditing.” Sir Rupert was a chubby little man, known for his drinking, foul language, and tough talk to his superiors. He had been born in a cheap little grass hut in West Peking, and through many struggles had risen to Knighthood when he recovered the crown jewels, stolen from Her Majesty by the evil Count Argo. All of the leaders respected Sir Rupert, although behind his back they were careful to outdo each other with grumblings about his humble beginnings.
Sir Rupert had taken upon himself as underling knight, my own Knight Adam, and therefore I was added to his crew as a squire. Under his tutelage, I learned many arts: the art of the sword, the art of the bow, horse-riding, and dancing. Truly, working with him was an honor – we were assigned the honorable task of opening the vault. Once all the pieces of gold were recovered from the depths of Doom Mansion, we would take the last piece and, using it as a key, unlock the vault that held the true treasure of the Mansion.
However, as my knight and I rode through the forest, in search of the last key, we came upon a hideous troll! He was a large, green, flappy eared troll with glasses and a mouth that was curled in a perpetual sneer. As a troll, he thought it his job to play with his food – asking them difficult questions before eating them. Sir Rupert, however, also knew that this troll controlled the mountain cave where our key could be found.
Thrice my Knight and I battled with this troll to no avail – Sir Adam would thrust, and I would come around behind, but the troll called in his support, in the way of mountain gnomes, and I was stuck fighting the gnomes, leaving Sir Adam to end the battle defeated and with many injuries.
However, back at the Great Hall, the Red Witch, Messieur Rory, and His Excellency were growing concerned that we still did not have the key. After discussing their fears with Sir Rupert, he left, alone, to go into the woods and fight the troll.
How that mighty fight played out, I’ll never know. However, Sir Rupert returned victorious: holding the key up high in his right hand, and dragging the troll, all tied up, behind him with his left.
When the troll was placed before Messieur Rory and the White Knight, they took turns pelting him with rotten vegetables. After which, the other pages took the troll away. What they did with him, I know not. However, it seems that the servants of Doom Mansion feasted on “roast” for many nights hence.
As for myself, when Sir Rupert walked up to His Excellency, bowed, and handed him the key, I had a hard time not crying. His Excellency stepped back to say a few words before opening up the vault. However, Sir Rupert turned around, looking to me, and said, “Run! Flee to the hills and find your destiny there!” And so I ran. I ran with my entire spirit.
To the frozen wasteland of Michigan….
I had ended up in the great hall of Doom Mansion after my knight had recommended me as a possible page girl for the great nobles. There I stood, day in and day out, waiting for Messieur Rory to ask me to send out a message of triumph, loving and fearing the wrath of His Excellency, and daydreaming about the Wight Knight.
My daydreaming interludes were interrupted frequently by two major characters, that should each be given ample introduction. The first was the Red Witch of the South by Southeast. She had entered the Great Hall under false pretences, telling Foster Foster and His Excellency that she was there to help. And help she did. However, her bid for power and lust of attention was insatiable. Within minutes she had cast the entire Great Hall under her spell. Even His Excellency cowered at her displeasured gaze. She took a liking to me early on, however, when I refused to perform one of her works of black magic, she turned on me. After that, she was full of icy and bitter words. She would cast spells to turn my hot drinks into cubes of ice, boil foul smelling potions in her corner of the room, and file her nails into points while smiling menacingly at me.
On the other hand, there was Sir Rupert Livingston, also known as “The Sherlock Holmes of Auditing.” Sir Rupert was a chubby little man, known for his drinking, foul language, and tough talk to his superiors. He had been born in a cheap little grass hut in West Peking, and through many struggles had risen to Knighthood when he recovered the crown jewels, stolen from Her Majesty by the evil Count Argo. All of the leaders respected Sir Rupert, although behind his back they were careful to outdo each other with grumblings about his humble beginnings.
Sir Rupert had taken upon himself as underling knight, my own Knight Adam, and therefore I was added to his crew as a squire. Under his tutelage, I learned many arts: the art of the sword, the art of the bow, horse-riding, and dancing. Truly, working with him was an honor – we were assigned the honorable task of opening the vault. Once all the pieces of gold were recovered from the depths of Doom Mansion, we would take the last piece and, using it as a key, unlock the vault that held the true treasure of the Mansion.
However, as my knight and I rode through the forest, in search of the last key, we came upon a hideous troll! He was a large, green, flappy eared troll with glasses and a mouth that was curled in a perpetual sneer. As a troll, he thought it his job to play with his food – asking them difficult questions before eating them. Sir Rupert, however, also knew that this troll controlled the mountain cave where our key could be found.
Thrice my Knight and I battled with this troll to no avail – Sir Adam would thrust, and I would come around behind, but the troll called in his support, in the way of mountain gnomes, and I was stuck fighting the gnomes, leaving Sir Adam to end the battle defeated and with many injuries.
However, back at the Great Hall, the Red Witch, Messieur Rory, and His Excellency were growing concerned that we still did not have the key. After discussing their fears with Sir Rupert, he left, alone, to go into the woods and fight the troll.
How that mighty fight played out, I’ll never know. However, Sir Rupert returned victorious: holding the key up high in his right hand, and dragging the troll, all tied up, behind him with his left.
When the troll was placed before Messieur Rory and the White Knight, they took turns pelting him with rotten vegetables. After which, the other pages took the troll away. What they did with him, I know not. However, it seems that the servants of Doom Mansion feasted on “roast” for many nights hence.
As for myself, when Sir Rupert walked up to His Excellency, bowed, and handed him the key, I had a hard time not crying. His Excellency stepped back to say a few words before opening up the vault. However, Sir Rupert turned around, looking to me, and said, “Run! Flee to the hills and find your destiny there!” And so I ran. I ran with my entire spirit.
To the frozen wasteland of Michigan….
Monday, December 17, 2007
Giving
As I sit in the airport, I think of all the different things I still need to write about. Today I was reading in “Celebration of Disciplines” by Richard Foster about service. Now, this book is a great guide to Christian discipline. It convicted me of the need for personal growth with God through prayer, meditation, and true study. In fact, using tips in the book, I went through Jonah 10 times, and I believe I gleaned so much more from it than I would ever have, even if I read it 10 separate times over my life.
The chapter I finished today was on service. Now, let me say that, while we always have the opportunity to grow, I found this chapter spoke to me in another way. For me, service comes fairly easily, and many of the warnings Dr. Foster gave about the wrong heart made me pause, but upon consideration, I believe I am safe.
Of course, this does not apply to all service from me, and there were several sections of the chapter that I particularly feel I could learn from. However, service is one of my spiritual gifts – not the biggest one for me, but it’s up there.
But this brings me to something I had thought about this summer involving service, gifts, and prayer of all things. Let me tell you first what I came up with this summer:
For me, it is easy to give people service. Sometimes I don’t always see what needs to be done, but once I know that I can help, I want to! I think it’s part of my desire to do everything, along with a gift of mine. That said, it probably happens very often that I do not appreciate the services done for me enough. I’m not talking about customer service, say at an airline or hotel. I am talking about when someone volunteers their time to help me out, or helps me carry something heavy. I think many times, once this service is performed, I may not offer the appreciation and gratitude that it deserves, because I think, “Oh, I would have done the same thing.” Which I would have.
Conversely, although when I do it, it makes me feel good, I don’t buy people physical gifts very often. For my first three years of college, if I went to dinner with friends and paid, they paid me back. It never occurred to us to trade off buying dinner for each other, and not keep score! I’m also fairly frugal, so I don’t randomly buy gifts for people off of holiday seasons, birthdays, and travel trinkets. Therefore, it is very hard for me to accept gifts from people. Where with services I may not acknowledge enough, with gifts, I may be over concerned with expressing my gratitude.
Well, how does this tie to prayer? It is hard for me to pray. I have to try so hard for it – I try different methods, just to see if one will stick. I can’t pray aloud! Heavens no! And therefore, it is very hard for me to accept people’s prayers. What may be the easiest thing for some people to give, makes me almost uncomfortable. The phrase, “I’ll pray for you…” makes me want to respond with, “No, don’t!” I suppose we each have our own gifts that are easy for us to give. That’s the beauty of the world – the gifts can balance each other out.
Now, my current line of thought deals with my previous conclusions. Why is it so hard to accept gifts? I mean, services, physical gifts, or prayers, why is it so hard to accept something from others? I know I am not the only one who struggles with this because I read about the subject over and over again in books. And even more than wondering why, the question is: what can we do about it?
I suppose practice is a definite start – practice being gracious. And I believe that means expressing gratitude without overdoing it.
Another point a friend made is that you can’t repay gifts with gifts! It is so hard for us to accept gifts that we cannot repay. If someone were to give me a diamond necklace, I suppose I would try to “repay” them by doing a service, or perhaps being their friend. While this “buying friendship” motif is a common problem, especially among multi-class relationships, the other choice is to offer nothing in return. Could you accept a diamond necklace?
I suppose the circumstances would have a lot to do with your reaction – is this person already a friend? That’s what I’m ultimately talking about. So if one of your random friends gave you a gift, the gracious thing to do would be to acknowledge it and say thank you. But it would be almost an insult to that person to try to give them something in return, or, worse, out-do their previous gift. I know that in some cultures and settings, back and forth gifts are appropriate. However, in the Christian sense of giving, gifts come from the heart with nothing expected in return.
That’s what charity boils down to – giving to people who don’t have the means to repay you. And while I don’t suggest performing acts of charity on your friends, there is a similarity. I suppose the real answer is the “pay it forward” response. No, I don’t suppose I can repay people who give me gifts with other gifts, or even services. However, what I can do is take a page out of their book! These people are so generous with their time, money, and even prayers. And so I should learn to be as generous! And in that way I can accomplish so much: accepting gifts graciously from my friends, helping other friends, and clearing my own psychological conscience that, for whatever reason, tells me that I cannot accept anything for free!
The chapter I finished today was on service. Now, let me say that, while we always have the opportunity to grow, I found this chapter spoke to me in another way. For me, service comes fairly easily, and many of the warnings Dr. Foster gave about the wrong heart made me pause, but upon consideration, I believe I am safe.
Of course, this does not apply to all service from me, and there were several sections of the chapter that I particularly feel I could learn from. However, service is one of my spiritual gifts – not the biggest one for me, but it’s up there.
But this brings me to something I had thought about this summer involving service, gifts, and prayer of all things. Let me tell you first what I came up with this summer:
For me, it is easy to give people service. Sometimes I don’t always see what needs to be done, but once I know that I can help, I want to! I think it’s part of my desire to do everything, along with a gift of mine. That said, it probably happens very often that I do not appreciate the services done for me enough. I’m not talking about customer service, say at an airline or hotel. I am talking about when someone volunteers their time to help me out, or helps me carry something heavy. I think many times, once this service is performed, I may not offer the appreciation and gratitude that it deserves, because I think, “Oh, I would have done the same thing.” Which I would have.
Conversely, although when I do it, it makes me feel good, I don’t buy people physical gifts very often. For my first three years of college, if I went to dinner with friends and paid, they paid me back. It never occurred to us to trade off buying dinner for each other, and not keep score! I’m also fairly frugal, so I don’t randomly buy gifts for people off of holiday seasons, birthdays, and travel trinkets. Therefore, it is very hard for me to accept gifts from people. Where with services I may not acknowledge enough, with gifts, I may be over concerned with expressing my gratitude.
Well, how does this tie to prayer? It is hard for me to pray. I have to try so hard for it – I try different methods, just to see if one will stick. I can’t pray aloud! Heavens no! And therefore, it is very hard for me to accept people’s prayers. What may be the easiest thing for some people to give, makes me almost uncomfortable. The phrase, “I’ll pray for you…” makes me want to respond with, “No, don’t!” I suppose we each have our own gifts that are easy for us to give. That’s the beauty of the world – the gifts can balance each other out.
Now, my current line of thought deals with my previous conclusions. Why is it so hard to accept gifts? I mean, services, physical gifts, or prayers, why is it so hard to accept something from others? I know I am not the only one who struggles with this because I read about the subject over and over again in books. And even more than wondering why, the question is: what can we do about it?
I suppose practice is a definite start – practice being gracious. And I believe that means expressing gratitude without overdoing it.
Another point a friend made is that you can’t repay gifts with gifts! It is so hard for us to accept gifts that we cannot repay. If someone were to give me a diamond necklace, I suppose I would try to “repay” them by doing a service, or perhaps being their friend. While this “buying friendship” motif is a common problem, especially among multi-class relationships, the other choice is to offer nothing in return. Could you accept a diamond necklace?
I suppose the circumstances would have a lot to do with your reaction – is this person already a friend? That’s what I’m ultimately talking about. So if one of your random friends gave you a gift, the gracious thing to do would be to acknowledge it and say thank you. But it would be almost an insult to that person to try to give them something in return, or, worse, out-do their previous gift. I know that in some cultures and settings, back and forth gifts are appropriate. However, in the Christian sense of giving, gifts come from the heart with nothing expected in return.
That’s what charity boils down to – giving to people who don’t have the means to repay you. And while I don’t suggest performing acts of charity on your friends, there is a similarity. I suppose the real answer is the “pay it forward” response. No, I don’t suppose I can repay people who give me gifts with other gifts, or even services. However, what I can do is take a page out of their book! These people are so generous with their time, money, and even prayers. And so I should learn to be as generous! And in that way I can accomplish so much: accepting gifts graciously from my friends, helping other friends, and clearing my own psychological conscience that, for whatever reason, tells me that I cannot accept anything for free!
Friday, December 14, 2007
More on That
So, I have more to add about that last post, as I sit in this plush hotel being paid for by Northwest Airlines... :)
Anyway, one other item I wanted to add about respecting parents. Jesus seemed to focus on this particular commandment. He was always talking about how the pharisees would leave their parents to work, and then the parents would grow old alone. Sometimes he would yell at them for requiring others to tithe rather than take care of their parents. And at the cross, he left his mother in the care of his favorite disciple.
On the other hand, he said to "hate your mother and leave your father" for the Him. I mean, he didn't really mean it, but he didn't want anything getting in the way of the Gospel.
And I suppose that's right. Nothing should get in the way of the Gospel. But the point is, if Jesus found this commandment so high, then we should definately try to follow it!
Further, just in the time I've started to try to focus on this, I feel much closer to my family.
Anyway, one other item I wanted to add about respecting parents. Jesus seemed to focus on this particular commandment. He was always talking about how the pharisees would leave their parents to work, and then the parents would grow old alone. Sometimes he would yell at them for requiring others to tithe rather than take care of their parents. And at the cross, he left his mother in the care of his favorite disciple.
On the other hand, he said to "hate your mother and leave your father" for the Him. I mean, he didn't really mean it, but he didn't want anything getting in the way of the Gospel.
And I suppose that's right. Nothing should get in the way of the Gospel. But the point is, if Jesus found this commandment so high, then we should definately try to follow it!
Further, just in the time I've started to try to focus on this, I feel much closer to my family.
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
That Commandment
I suppose it's time to get my dirty laundry out. Now that I have "time" to write, I feel that writing helps me focus my thoughts and figure out what it is I'm "trying" to think. Also, there's the accountability factor. I've already brought this up with one friend, who went, "hmmmm..." (I don't think it's an issue for her - or not in the same way at least). But if someone has the same problem, if someone can offer advice? Megan? Anna? :)
Over the last couple of years I have come in contact with some of the most amazing people! They astonish me, almost on a daily basis, with one simple aspect: they get along with their siblings. And their parents! For me, I was almost taught that sibling rivalry was a natural course of life. Look at Jacob's sons! But still, I'm sure given a choice, God would always prefer us to get along with our family.
Which brings me to the Commandment. Now, my Bible's laying across the room, and I don't have the order memorized like my more religious friends, but we all know that, "Honor thy mother and thy father," is in there somewhere. Well, I have been struggling with this more and more recently.
When my sister and I were kids, we obeyed almost without question. And as a teenager, I would usually come home and gab with my parents - we got along real well, real chummy. But I remember in my sophomore year of college telling a mentor that things were getting more tense with my parents - especially my dad. And now, well, I just wonder sometimes.
What my mentor said was that these changes were the natural pangs of growing up and changing from a child who obeys her parents to an adult who is more of a friend to her parents. And my problem? I think my parents still think of me like a child.
OK, maturity break here! I've seen the drama a million times on TV sitcoms - the teenage girl (11-16 years old) fights with her parents because she wants to be treated like an adult and then makes some stupid mistake. It seems to me that I'm enacting that drama at the age of...well, older....So am I truly just as immature as that 16 year old on TV? Or am I really mature, and logically and justifiably fighting to be treated as an adult? I don't know...
Anyway, my mentor made sense, and I will admit my mom seems to have followed that advice. Apparently she thinks I'm a strange goose, but I kind of think she is, too. :) We could have been identical twins - looking alike but being completely different.
Now, here's the kicker: the Bible says, "Honor thy father and thy mother." (Somehow the order got reversed there...) But what does honor mean? Respect? Obey? Say good things about them behind their backs? I mean, if you were going to honor anyone, how would you do it? I hear the word and I think flowers and parades...
But if I go by my own questionable definitions, I believe I don't truly honor them, or my sister. In fact - this is scary - I don't hold them in any kind of high place in my life. All I care about are my friends...when Vanessa and I were studying the love languages I had the hardest time picking mine out, and one reason was because the way I interacted with the people I loved (family) was entirely different than the way I itneracted with my friends. And yet, if I had to be honest, the result for my friends was closer to my personality...
So if I honor my family, I respect them, right? I do respect them. I used to say that they were the best possible family ever! And I still hold that they raised me very well (very modest apparently), and gave me everything I needed and much of what I wanted. And I respect my dad's opinion more than anyone else's in the world! So I guess I have that down.
Obey? Here's the hard part. For so many years, I never made an effort to go back and see them. I talked to them on the phone a lot. But I kind of shunned them. And the sad part is, I don't see much of a change there. I mean, I want to spread my wings and explore! And I suppose the way that they interact with their parents has influenced me, too. Right now, I still think we have a better relationship, but I grew up thinking that my parents' parents lived 3 hours or more away - so aren't kids supposed to move away when they grow up?
In truth, I still obey them, even when I don't have to. I've just been trained that way. But I moan and groan about it.
So I guess what I'm trying to say is - I don't think I honor my parents, but I don't know how to! I mean, like any sin, it takes hold of you and is hard to change! I mean, I don't want to start being all clingy with them, or I'll feel like I've lost my sense of independence, and that's a very important part of my personality.
On the other hand, I don't want to lose them! I honestly think of the song, "Cat's in the Cradle," although it's not entirely fair (yes, Dad was gone a lot as a kid, but I don't remember ever feeling abandoned by him) And I think God wants us to rely on each other to a large extent. He gave us that family for a reason.
So I guess I need help, God's help, and advice. And, most importantly, to just put in a little effort.
Over the last couple of years I have come in contact with some of the most amazing people! They astonish me, almost on a daily basis, with one simple aspect: they get along with their siblings. And their parents! For me, I was almost taught that sibling rivalry was a natural course of life. Look at Jacob's sons! But still, I'm sure given a choice, God would always prefer us to get along with our family.
Which brings me to the Commandment. Now, my Bible's laying across the room, and I don't have the order memorized like my more religious friends, but we all know that, "Honor thy mother and thy father," is in there somewhere. Well, I have been struggling with this more and more recently.
When my sister and I were kids, we obeyed almost without question. And as a teenager, I would usually come home and gab with my parents - we got along real well, real chummy. But I remember in my sophomore year of college telling a mentor that things were getting more tense with my parents - especially my dad. And now, well, I just wonder sometimes.
What my mentor said was that these changes were the natural pangs of growing up and changing from a child who obeys her parents to an adult who is more of a friend to her parents. And my problem? I think my parents still think of me like a child.
OK, maturity break here! I've seen the drama a million times on TV sitcoms - the teenage girl (11-16 years old) fights with her parents because she wants to be treated like an adult and then makes some stupid mistake. It seems to me that I'm enacting that drama at the age of...well, older....So am I truly just as immature as that 16 year old on TV? Or am I really mature, and logically and justifiably fighting to be treated as an adult? I don't know...
Anyway, my mentor made sense, and I will admit my mom seems to have followed that advice. Apparently she thinks I'm a strange goose, but I kind of think she is, too. :) We could have been identical twins - looking alike but being completely different.
Now, here's the kicker: the Bible says, "Honor thy father and thy mother." (Somehow the order got reversed there...) But what does honor mean? Respect? Obey? Say good things about them behind their backs? I mean, if you were going to honor anyone, how would you do it? I hear the word and I think flowers and parades...
But if I go by my own questionable definitions, I believe I don't truly honor them, or my sister. In fact - this is scary - I don't hold them in any kind of high place in my life. All I care about are my friends...when Vanessa and I were studying the love languages I had the hardest time picking mine out, and one reason was because the way I interacted with the people I loved (family) was entirely different than the way I itneracted with my friends. And yet, if I had to be honest, the result for my friends was closer to my personality...
So if I honor my family, I respect them, right? I do respect them. I used to say that they were the best possible family ever! And I still hold that they raised me very well (very modest apparently), and gave me everything I needed and much of what I wanted. And I respect my dad's opinion more than anyone else's in the world! So I guess I have that down.
Obey? Here's the hard part. For so many years, I never made an effort to go back and see them. I talked to them on the phone a lot. But I kind of shunned them. And the sad part is, I don't see much of a change there. I mean, I want to spread my wings and explore! And I suppose the way that they interact with their parents has influenced me, too. Right now, I still think we have a better relationship, but I grew up thinking that my parents' parents lived 3 hours or more away - so aren't kids supposed to move away when they grow up?
In truth, I still obey them, even when I don't have to. I've just been trained that way. But I moan and groan about it.
So I guess what I'm trying to say is - I don't think I honor my parents, but I don't know how to! I mean, like any sin, it takes hold of you and is hard to change! I mean, I don't want to start being all clingy with them, or I'll feel like I've lost my sense of independence, and that's a very important part of my personality.
On the other hand, I don't want to lose them! I honestly think of the song, "Cat's in the Cradle," although it's not entirely fair (yes, Dad was gone a lot as a kid, but I don't remember ever feeling abandoned by him) And I think God wants us to rely on each other to a large extent. He gave us that family for a reason.
So I guess I need help, God's help, and advice. And, most importantly, to just put in a little effort.
Sunday, December 9, 2007
The End (Revised Restatement)
So it’s been a few days since I’ve written. Okay, it’s been a LONG time. I am currently sitting on a plane living one of the horror stories of traveling. We got on at 2:30, waited for 2 ½ hours for a pilot, and now we are at our destination, still sitting because the ramp is icy. I want to keep a positive attitude. I mean, what else have I got to do? Maybe that’s something I need to work on: having a positive attitude and complaining less. In fact, I’m going to start writing about my thoughts and personal development. I know words can be weak, but there are things I need to think out, and perhaps they will help me to translate thoughts into actions.
However, because it’s been so long, I thought I’d do a quick boring update. We recently finished our re-audit. My dear coworkers are, after a weekend of blissful sleep, going to start working on finishing the 2006 audit and starting the 2007 audit. The goal is to someday be able to catch up.
So I flew in last Sunday and worked until 10 PM. That was my early night. I spent the next two nights working until 1 or 2 AM and then there was a grand finale on Wednesday – we stayed until 3:00 AM! The process was exciting in a way.
I could not open my eyes on Tuesday (after my first night), and my caffeine intake has skyrocketed! However, by the end of the week, it felt like I’d never need a full eight hours of sleep again! This week I went back to some of my more mundane duties, but I also wrote memos and had partners sign off on my work!
In times of stress, I think the most bonding goes on. And this week, we finally felt like family at the client site. Or at least I did. I think perhaps my coworkers thought of me as the obnoxious cheerleader. In fact, as the hours grew later, my manager and I grew loopier, while my senior got pretty grumpy.
On Friday we went in to file the Company’s financial statements with the Securities and Exchange Commission at 4:00. The day went by quickly as we finished up last minute items. It was like a sweat shop! We couldn’t stop to eat lunch, and they ordered it in! As the minutes ticked by, I realized it was a hopeless cause. At 8:00, we finally were dismissed – and yet when I woke up late on Saturday morning, we still had not filed.
Alas, as I am posting this now, we now have filed, but the news does not seem to have picked up on the fact! Perhaps it is because the Fed may drop interest rates again. Whatever the cause, if I ever get arrested, I want the Company's PR agents on my side! They certainly did their job, and their stock's even up! (those who care, apparently feel it will be publicly traded again soon, while my new praying mantis manager does not believe so)
However, because it’s been so long, I thought I’d do a quick boring update. We recently finished our re-audit. My dear coworkers are, after a weekend of blissful sleep, going to start working on finishing the 2006 audit and starting the 2007 audit. The goal is to someday be able to catch up.
So I flew in last Sunday and worked until 10 PM. That was my early night. I spent the next two nights working until 1 or 2 AM and then there was a grand finale on Wednesday – we stayed until 3:00 AM! The process was exciting in a way.
I could not open my eyes on Tuesday (after my first night), and my caffeine intake has skyrocketed! However, by the end of the week, it felt like I’d never need a full eight hours of sleep again! This week I went back to some of my more mundane duties, but I also wrote memos and had partners sign off on my work!
In times of stress, I think the most bonding goes on. And this week, we finally felt like family at the client site. Or at least I did. I think perhaps my coworkers thought of me as the obnoxious cheerleader. In fact, as the hours grew later, my manager and I grew loopier, while my senior got pretty grumpy.
On Friday we went in to file the Company’s financial statements with the Securities and Exchange Commission at 4:00. The day went by quickly as we finished up last minute items. It was like a sweat shop! We couldn’t stop to eat lunch, and they ordered it in! As the minutes ticked by, I realized it was a hopeless cause. At 8:00, we finally were dismissed – and yet when I woke up late on Saturday morning, we still had not filed.
Alas, as I am posting this now, we now have filed, but the news does not seem to have picked up on the fact! Perhaps it is because the Fed may drop interest rates again. Whatever the cause, if I ever get arrested, I want the Company's PR agents on my side! They certainly did their job, and their stock's even up! (those who care, apparently feel it will be publicly traded again soon, while my new praying mantis manager does not believe so)
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
Mr. Baloni
I met Tony Baloni while working on an audit, up north in the Chicago area. I had a question about accounts receivable, and one of his coworkers pushed him off on me. As I approached the man's cubicle, I wasn't struck by anything out of the ordinary, and yet, I was about to meet a man so full of personality, one can hardly write the words.
When I spoke his name, Tony didn't even look up. He continued to talk to me with his back facing me for several moments. When he found out what I wanted, he acknowledged it with the slightest of phrases, and then proceeded to calmly finish the task he was working on before proceeding to track down my papers.
Tony's cube was more the cube of a college professor than an accountant. He had binders and books stacked everywhere, but there was a distinct feeling of oranization. As he got to work quickly and without hesitation, I noticed each binder, carefully labelled in bright colorful font. Added to the Far Side comic strips on his wall, I deduced that this was a man full of personality - although one would have to go far to find how far that personality reached.
Turning back to me, Tony explained the documents he was about to give me with a voice that sounded as though it belonged in a 1960's spy drama. To the point. That seemed to be the way he ran his life.
I'm sure when I left, he got back to work, barely remembering that I had been there. And yet, I also am sure that if I showed up again, he would remember the encounter as well as I did.
Tony Baloni - quite a character. :)
When I spoke his name, Tony didn't even look up. He continued to talk to me with his back facing me for several moments. When he found out what I wanted, he acknowledged it with the slightest of phrases, and then proceeded to calmly finish the task he was working on before proceeding to track down my papers.
Tony's cube was more the cube of a college professor than an accountant. He had binders and books stacked everywhere, but there was a distinct feeling of oranization. As he got to work quickly and without hesitation, I noticed each binder, carefully labelled in bright colorful font. Added to the Far Side comic strips on his wall, I deduced that this was a man full of personality - although one would have to go far to find how far that personality reached.
Turning back to me, Tony explained the documents he was about to give me with a voice that sounded as though it belonged in a 1960's spy drama. To the point. That seemed to be the way he ran his life.
I'm sure when I left, he got back to work, barely remembering that I had been there. And yet, I also am sure that if I showed up again, he would remember the encounter as well as I did.
Tony Baloni - quite a character. :)
Sunday, November 4, 2007
Fun Times in the Hotel
Just so you know, I write this with an Irish accent, due to the manager who is on rotation from Ireland that gets his beautiful accent stuck in my head all day.
So on Sunday night the fire alarms went off in my hotel - this was right after I had acquired hypothermia on the architectural river tour of the city. Pictures later. Anyway, I was kind of paranoid that something in my room had started it - my takeout was too smoky? One of my appliance was plugged in and sparking? Well it wasn't me. I don't think it was anyone really. There wasn't smoke. Not even a fog machine! :)
Anyway, I have now found another reason to fear that a fire may be caused in my room - my bed! last night I was moving about after I had gone to bed, and I saw little flashes of light. They got worse the more I moved about. I finally discovered what they were - my bed has three wool blankets on it, and combined with the dry air, they were rubbing against each other and sparking! I could even hear the sparks and everything.
So then I spent a couple of minutes sitting up in bed slapping down my blankets wherever I could, just to watch the fireworks show! Astounding!
So on Sunday night the fire alarms went off in my hotel - this was right after I had acquired hypothermia on the architectural river tour of the city. Pictures later. Anyway, I was kind of paranoid that something in my room had started it - my takeout was too smoky? One of my appliance was plugged in and sparking? Well it wasn't me. I don't think it was anyone really. There wasn't smoke. Not even a fog machine! :)
Anyway, I have now found another reason to fear that a fire may be caused in my room - my bed! last night I was moving about after I had gone to bed, and I saw little flashes of light. They got worse the more I moved about. I finally discovered what they were - my bed has three wool blankets on it, and combined with the dry air, they were rubbing against each other and sparking! I could even hear the sparks and everything.
So then I spent a couple of minutes sitting up in bed slapping down my blankets wherever I could, just to watch the fireworks show! Astounding!
Friday, November 2, 2007
Makeup and a Smile
Whenever I want to feel pretty, or on the 6th, 11th, 18th, and 23rd of each month, whichever is closest, I put on makeup. I apply sparingly or generously depending on what I'm doing that day, and I try to make my impossible hair look better than usual. And, while I've only had about a 33% percent success rate, it often works (makes me feel pretty).
See, we've discovered that what we find attractive can often actually be confidence rather than real beauty. And if makes me feel confident about how I look, that feeling will show on the outside, too.
Whenever I want to feel pretty, I wash my face. Take all the makeup off. I see myself the way I am almost every day of the year. For some reason, I have found that the day after my makeup day, I feel even better about myself than before! I don't know if perhaps some of the makeup hasn't come off (you know, less is more). Perhaps it is the confidence that has not worn off.
But I have another theory. I see myself for me. I see the real me, and not the fake one. I remember all the reasons that I don't regularly wear makeup. And I do have confidence in the fact that I can walk outside without painting my face and face the world with my true colors.
I guess we are all vain creatures. My friend once told me that we all think we are good-looking to some extent. I contended the opposite. And I think we're both right. We all have flaws that we see more than others. But at the end of the day, we like to make ourselves look nice, and we all believe that it is possible.
Now, superficiality has long been a struggle of mine. In an effort to avoid it, I think I have delved into it farther than anyone else I know. And I still struggle with it to some extent.
But the truth is, makeup or not, when I look in a mirror, I can choose how I want to feel about myself. If I am confident, it shows. If not, people will view me the same way I view myself. So I smile and do something to get the blood flowing to my face. And I'm ready to face the world!
Whenever I want to feel pretty, I smile. A lot. :)
See, we've discovered that what we find attractive can often actually be confidence rather than real beauty. And if makes me feel confident about how I look, that feeling will show on the outside, too.
Whenever I want to feel pretty, I wash my face. Take all the makeup off. I see myself the way I am almost every day of the year. For some reason, I have found that the day after my makeup day, I feel even better about myself than before! I don't know if perhaps some of the makeup hasn't come off (you know, less is more). Perhaps it is the confidence that has not worn off.
But I have another theory. I see myself for me. I see the real me, and not the fake one. I remember all the reasons that I don't regularly wear makeup. And I do have confidence in the fact that I can walk outside without painting my face and face the world with my true colors.
I guess we are all vain creatures. My friend once told me that we all think we are good-looking to some extent. I contended the opposite. And I think we're both right. We all have flaws that we see more than others. But at the end of the day, we like to make ourselves look nice, and we all believe that it is possible.
Now, superficiality has long been a struggle of mine. In an effort to avoid it, I think I have delved into it farther than anyone else I know. And I still struggle with it to some extent.
But the truth is, makeup or not, when I look in a mirror, I can choose how I want to feel about myself. If I am confident, it shows. If not, people will view me the same way I view myself. So I smile and do something to get the blood flowing to my face. And I'm ready to face the world!
Whenever I want to feel pretty, I smile. A lot. :)
Thursday, November 1, 2007
More Fairy Tales
In celebration of the month of November, and probably for all future posts, I have decided to make my titles just plain normal titles. This actually could be quite fun, because I believe that a really good title is truly everything!
I would like to add another saga to my fairy tale:
In the mighty fortress of Doom Mansion, there is a legend of a crown - a crown with 12 jewels on it. Many eons ago, the jewels fell off the crown, and were lost in the labyrinth below the castle. However, as legend has it, when all 12 stones are reunited with their crown, the person who wears the crown will have great power indeed, and restore sunshine to the kingdom, giving Doom Mansion a new name.
As as squire for Knight Andi the Maroon, I was sent on a quest to discover the 12 jewels and reunite them with the crown, sitting in the glass case far above in the Great Hall. After months of searching and wading through mud and battling trolls and ogres, I finally had managed to find 11 of the stones. My Knight had been tragically slain in a duel with one of the ogres - the duel that left me with the eleventh jewel.
As I trudged out of the muddy pit, tears and mud streaking my face, I heard a voice, and squinted into the ill-lit labyrinth. "Who goes there?" I called.
"I am Sir Adam the Brave! Squire - give me those stones." A man stepped into the light, dressed in a sparkling silver suit of armor.
"But, Sir, I have these 11 stones. I need the last stone to give to my new Knight."
"I am your new Knight. You will obey me. I have the last stone, and I wish to give all 12 to the Prince at once."
"So with my 11 jewels, so goes my glory." I stated.
He drew his sword with a swift motion, and before I could react, the cold steel blade was pressed against my neck. I flinched, but did not back away. To the left, I heard a shuffling of feet, and looked to see the bold Marshall of the Knights coming down the stairs that led to the entrance to the labyrinths. He stopped to watch, but said nothing.
"The jewels, squire! NOW!" Shouted the knight.
Having no choice...I slowly reached into my pouch, giving up all hopes of ever truly becoming a Knight Performing Magnificent Gestures...or whatever. All 11 jewels fit snugly in my hand, and I opened it, ever so slightly for the knight to see.
In another swift movement, he had lowered his sword and taken the jewels away. Now, my emotions were running high because of the loss of my former Knight, and it took everything I could muster to choke back the sob that rose in my throat.
And then, as suddenly as he had appeared, something changed on the knight's countenance. I know not what he saw to soften his heart. Some say that all 12 jewels, when united, give the owner a sense of goodness. Maybe he just had pity on me, as he watched me standing in the dungeon - muddy face, muddy hair, muddy clothing, and trembling with fear, cold, and emotion.
But the Knight gave me the slightest nod and held out his hand again, this time dropping all 12 stones into it. "Go," He nodded toward the Marshall, still standing in the stair, now with a smile playing across his lips, "You've earned it."
So, with a new spring in my step and a renewed faith in my Knights and their valor, I held my head up high, and ascended the stairs, onward - toward the great hall - one step closer to victory.
I would like to add another saga to my fairy tale:
In the mighty fortress of Doom Mansion, there is a legend of a crown - a crown with 12 jewels on it. Many eons ago, the jewels fell off the crown, and were lost in the labyrinth below the castle. However, as legend has it, when all 12 stones are reunited with their crown, the person who wears the crown will have great power indeed, and restore sunshine to the kingdom, giving Doom Mansion a new name.
As as squire for Knight Andi the Maroon, I was sent on a quest to discover the 12 jewels and reunite them with the crown, sitting in the glass case far above in the Great Hall. After months of searching and wading through mud and battling trolls and ogres, I finally had managed to find 11 of the stones. My Knight had been tragically slain in a duel with one of the ogres - the duel that left me with the eleventh jewel.
As I trudged out of the muddy pit, tears and mud streaking my face, I heard a voice, and squinted into the ill-lit labyrinth. "Who goes there?" I called.
"I am Sir Adam the Brave! Squire - give me those stones." A man stepped into the light, dressed in a sparkling silver suit of armor.
"But, Sir, I have these 11 stones. I need the last stone to give to my new Knight."
"I am your new Knight. You will obey me. I have the last stone, and I wish to give all 12 to the Prince at once."
"So with my 11 jewels, so goes my glory." I stated.
He drew his sword with a swift motion, and before I could react, the cold steel blade was pressed against my neck. I flinched, but did not back away. To the left, I heard a shuffling of feet, and looked to see the bold Marshall of the Knights coming down the stairs that led to the entrance to the labyrinths. He stopped to watch, but said nothing.
"The jewels, squire! NOW!" Shouted the knight.
Having no choice...I slowly reached into my pouch, giving up all hopes of ever truly becoming a Knight Performing Magnificent Gestures...or whatever. All 11 jewels fit snugly in my hand, and I opened it, ever so slightly for the knight to see.
In another swift movement, he had lowered his sword and taken the jewels away. Now, my emotions were running high because of the loss of my former Knight, and it took everything I could muster to choke back the sob that rose in my throat.
And then, as suddenly as he had appeared, something changed on the knight's countenance. I know not what he saw to soften his heart. Some say that all 12 jewels, when united, give the owner a sense of goodness. Maybe he just had pity on me, as he watched me standing in the dungeon - muddy face, muddy hair, muddy clothing, and trembling with fear, cold, and emotion.
But the Knight gave me the slightest nod and held out his hand again, this time dropping all 12 stones into it. "Go," He nodded toward the Marshall, still standing in the stair, now with a smile playing across his lips, "You've earned it."
So, with a new spring in my step and a renewed faith in my Knights and their valor, I held my head up high, and ascended the stairs, onward - toward the great hall - one step closer to victory.
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
My Wedding
Okay, don't freak anyone. I'm still doing that dorky "my" thing...although I'm thinking maybe I'll branch out in November.
Although, along those lines, I have a funny story. I was talking to one of my managers today about her best friend, and she said, "She's the one person I know will be in my wedding." Now, Heidi is not engaged so...I asked if she had a sister, which she did not. Then I said, "Well, I do, and my mom's decided that she gets to be in my wedding."
Heidi's face lit up. "Are you getting married?"
I just thought it was funny - we're talking generalities here, about events that may or may not even ever happen. And all of the sudden, when it's my turn, we're talking specifics. :) And, of course, neither of us wear rings...
But it did remind me that you have to be careful around people who don't know you that well...
But what I really wanted to post about was something I have noticed recently as one of my friends prepares for her wedding. Now, what I'm about to comment on I think is wonderful and amazing, and I hope it does not come out differently.
Weddings are expensive. And they are time consuming. But what I've noticed is that you never have to do it alone. And I'm not talking about the spouse-to-be. The maid of honor and best man help out a lot! And then there are the bridesmaids and groomsmen. They help out both with time and money. I didn't know before that bridesmaids bought their own dresses, shoes, hairstyles, etc.
Now, I've never been asked by a friend to spend hundreds of dollars so that she could get married while I watched and prayed that it wouldn't happen two more times. But, I don't think I'd mind. I mean, that's the beauty of weddings.
In a wedding, being asked to help, to volunteer your time, even for menial tasks like serving punch and cookies, is an honor. Now, I can see this kind of behaviour at a funeral, "What can I do to make it better?" But I think it's glorious how with a wedding everyone comes together to help out. They help, asking nothing in return. They work their hardest to make the day all about the happy couple - it's not about the guests. They chip in a little when asked to help because it's an honor.
There are times when I look at society as a whole and am scared. But then I look at something simple like this (or Santa Claus) and realize that, even with the group mentality and political strife that we face today, our hearts are in the right place.
Although, along those lines, I have a funny story. I was talking to one of my managers today about her best friend, and she said, "She's the one person I know will be in my wedding." Now, Heidi is not engaged so...I asked if she had a sister, which she did not. Then I said, "Well, I do, and my mom's decided that she gets to be in my wedding."
Heidi's face lit up. "Are you getting married?"
I just thought it was funny - we're talking generalities here, about events that may or may not even ever happen. And all of the sudden, when it's my turn, we're talking specifics. :) And, of course, neither of us wear rings...
But it did remind me that you have to be careful around people who don't know you that well...
But what I really wanted to post about was something I have noticed recently as one of my friends prepares for her wedding. Now, what I'm about to comment on I think is wonderful and amazing, and I hope it does not come out differently.
Weddings are expensive. And they are time consuming. But what I've noticed is that you never have to do it alone. And I'm not talking about the spouse-to-be. The maid of honor and best man help out a lot! And then there are the bridesmaids and groomsmen. They help out both with time and money. I didn't know before that bridesmaids bought their own dresses, shoes, hairstyles, etc.
Now, I've never been asked by a friend to spend hundreds of dollars so that she could get married while I watched and prayed that it wouldn't happen two more times. But, I don't think I'd mind. I mean, that's the beauty of weddings.
In a wedding, being asked to help, to volunteer your time, even for menial tasks like serving punch and cookies, is an honor. Now, I can see this kind of behaviour at a funeral, "What can I do to make it better?" But I think it's glorious how with a wedding everyone comes together to help out. They help, asking nothing in return. They work their hardest to make the day all about the happy couple - it's not about the guests. They chip in a little when asked to help because it's an honor.
There are times when I look at society as a whole and am scared. But then I look at something simple like this (or Santa Claus) and realize that, even with the group mentality and political strife that we face today, our hearts are in the right place.
Sunday, October 28, 2007
My Bedtime Story
As the moon rises high over the cool Chicago skyline and the stars begin to twinkle over Lake Michigan, the time of night draws near in which five little children must take to their beds. To sleep per chance to dream. And to send them to bed with sweet dreams, I have created the loveliest of bedtime stories.
As follows: (please note, this is actually a story about me and my job...the names have been changed because they have to be). There was once a mighty fortress that stood in the plains of the land of Illinois. It towered a story above all the fortresses nearby, including the fair castle of the Spanish Maids, where the Princess Sarah, our heroine lived.
Long ago, before Sarah moved to the land of Illinois, in the village of Warren, this fortress called Doom Mansion house an army of guards called the Bluesmen. These guards stood watch over the fortresses holds of jewels, guarding them from those who would steal them away. For 99 years the Bluesmen stood aguard. However, able as the Bluesmen were, the Knights of the Fortress had created an immense labyrinth through which they slowly hid their jewels. They had the best intention - trying to protect the wealth of the Doom Mansion.
One day, King Cedric asked to see the jewels. He summoned the head Bluesman, but the head Bluesman had been injured in a jousting tournament, so his squire was sent instead. "Bring me a jewel! A green one! I wish to go out." The king said.
So the Bluesman looked for a jewel, but he could not find one. He sent runners out to find the head Bluesman, but it was too late. The Bluesman had traveled to the far reaches of the world to revive himself. Meanwhile, the rest of the Bluesmen were at the Doom Mansion looking high and low for a green jewel. But naught was one to be found. All that they could find was the labyrinth constructed by the workers of the fortress.
When the Bluesman reported back to the king, the king was furious! He grabbed a display sword off the wall shouting "Off with his head!" But the Bluesman acted quicker. He turned abruptly to his left and strode up to the head of the castle guardsmen and threw his glove at the guard's feet. "O king, I blame this man here! And I challenge him to a duel."
The day was set. The entire village of Warren showed up for the duel. Hours and hours it lasted, until finally, both men lay dead. One from exhaustion. One from a lethal head wound.
After the tournament, the King, fired the Bluesmen guard and hired a new order of knights called KPMG: Knights Performing Magnificent Gestures. These knights were charged with a magnificent quest. It was the quest for the jewels of Doom Mansion. The jewels were hidden away within miles and miles of mazes. And so, KPMG called in all the greatest and bravest knights, asking only for those willing to accept the call! And one of those knights was Princess Sarah. She responded, although horrors awaited her!
Before she could enter the maze, the fortress required her to hand over all her long golden hair as a defense against fleas. Then she was subjected to three weeks of initiation into the Knights, during which she was forced to sit in the stocks, wear fancy clothes to a joust, and deliver food to the other knights as though she were their slave. If the food was wrong, they threw it at her. But once the initiation was over, Sarah was allowed to enter the maze and begin her quest for the jewels of Doom Mansion.
I wish I had a happy ending to this story. However, Sarah entered the maze and, although she has had much success - retreiving jewels in the caverns of the King's Reserves and Armory, battling ogres, and making use of teamwork with her other knights- she has not yet returned from her quest - so I don't know if it was a success. One ogre still remains: a very powerful ogre under the employ of the fortress itself. He was hired to protect the jewels, and yet his overeagerness has caused much agitation to the knights.
In fact, many knights were killed or driven mad in their sojourns into the depths of the caverns. Only the best and bravest survived! Each jewel Sarah retrieved brought great praise from the knights, and that's the happiest ending I have to report.
As follows: (please note, this is actually a story about me and my job...the names have been changed because they have to be). There was once a mighty fortress that stood in the plains of the land of Illinois. It towered a story above all the fortresses nearby, including the fair castle of the Spanish Maids, where the Princess Sarah, our heroine lived.
Long ago, before Sarah moved to the land of Illinois, in the village of Warren, this fortress called Doom Mansion house an army of guards called the Bluesmen. These guards stood watch over the fortresses holds of jewels, guarding them from those who would steal them away. For 99 years the Bluesmen stood aguard. However, able as the Bluesmen were, the Knights of the Fortress had created an immense labyrinth through which they slowly hid their jewels. They had the best intention - trying to protect the wealth of the Doom Mansion.
One day, King Cedric asked to see the jewels. He summoned the head Bluesman, but the head Bluesman had been injured in a jousting tournament, so his squire was sent instead. "Bring me a jewel! A green one! I wish to go out." The king said.
So the Bluesman looked for a jewel, but he could not find one. He sent runners out to find the head Bluesman, but it was too late. The Bluesman had traveled to the far reaches of the world to revive himself. Meanwhile, the rest of the Bluesmen were at the Doom Mansion looking high and low for a green jewel. But naught was one to be found. All that they could find was the labyrinth constructed by the workers of the fortress.
When the Bluesman reported back to the king, the king was furious! He grabbed a display sword off the wall shouting "Off with his head!" But the Bluesman acted quicker. He turned abruptly to his left and strode up to the head of the castle guardsmen and threw his glove at the guard's feet. "O king, I blame this man here! And I challenge him to a duel."
The day was set. The entire village of Warren showed up for the duel. Hours and hours it lasted, until finally, both men lay dead. One from exhaustion. One from a lethal head wound.
After the tournament, the King, fired the Bluesmen guard and hired a new order of knights called KPMG: Knights Performing Magnificent Gestures. These knights were charged with a magnificent quest. It was the quest for the jewels of Doom Mansion. The jewels were hidden away within miles and miles of mazes. And so, KPMG called in all the greatest and bravest knights, asking only for those willing to accept the call! And one of those knights was Princess Sarah. She responded, although horrors awaited her!
Before she could enter the maze, the fortress required her to hand over all her long golden hair as a defense against fleas. Then she was subjected to three weeks of initiation into the Knights, during which she was forced to sit in the stocks, wear fancy clothes to a joust, and deliver food to the other knights as though she were their slave. If the food was wrong, they threw it at her. But once the initiation was over, Sarah was allowed to enter the maze and begin her quest for the jewels of Doom Mansion.
I wish I had a happy ending to this story. However, Sarah entered the maze and, although she has had much success - retreiving jewels in the caverns of the King's Reserves and Armory, battling ogres, and making use of teamwork with her other knights- she has not yet returned from her quest - so I don't know if it was a success. One ogre still remains: a very powerful ogre under the employ of the fortress itself. He was hired to protect the jewels, and yet his overeagerness has caused much agitation to the knights.
In fact, many knights were killed or driven mad in their sojourns into the depths of the caverns. Only the best and bravest survived! Each jewel Sarah retrieved brought great praise from the knights, and that's the happiest ending I have to report.
Friday, October 26, 2007
My Fall Day
An exercise in writing:
The morning was absolutely perfect - just like a Kansas morning should be - except that it was in Illinois. It was one of those days that are hard to place seasonally - the weather felt like fall, but, considering the earliness of the hour, it could have just as easily been late spring or early summer. The breeze was so slight, it was almost non-existent, but every now and then it would stir up again, teasing myhair and causing meto change myview - looking into the breeze, and also to the landscape beyond.
That evening, I went to a movie, by myself, a brand new experience. I always say that we should all do something each day that we've never done before. The problem is, if you try too hard, you may end up doing several things! And if you don't try hard enough, then you end up looking to hard to make things you've already done work: "Today I made photocopies on the fourth floor of the Internatioanl building." I had to sell my sister's first-born in order to pay the admission fee, and then, as I had a strange craving for popcorn, I had to sell an interest in her second child as well. (Fortunately these shares are not transferrable and revert back to my sister upon death of the holder. And at the rate she's going, the purchasers may very well have died of old age before their claims are withheld).
And what kind of night did I walk out into! It was rainy and dark. Somehow, the dark feels darker here. I wonder if it has to do with all the lights - our eyes never fully adjust to the dark anymore. Or the clouds were lower than usual, even for a rainy night.
But the amazing thing was that it wasn't cold! I stood out in the rain getting gas, and felt wonderful! This is the perfect weather! I've been cold recently, but fall has always been and will always be my season. And I've been saying how lucky I am to get two falls this year: one in Chicago where it comes earlier (which didn't turn out to be entirely true - most of their "fall" days are really wintry) and one when I get back to KC and it's still fall (December - I'm not really sure how KC stacks up to the rest of Kansas, but I am fully expecting it to not get cold until after Christmas, so it better not disappoint).
And, oddly enough, as I write this, I am struck by something incredible! Perhaps it is my lack of disposable free time. Or because I haven't been able to take long walks or climb up hills or drive cross-country. Or it could be the sudden onset of full-fledged coldness that cut my fall painfully short. Either way, I don't feel that odd feeling I get each fall - the "something's coming" feeling. I'm going to have to explore this further.
*On a final note - I'm watching Harry Potter II and I must speak my mind (because I'm so opinionated). John Williams is the most amazing composer alive today! And he stacks up tremendously next to Bach. I have one observation which, although it will not change how I feel about him, must be spoken. His music, his themes, shall I say, can cause one's heart to soar and one's imagination to take wing! But action scenes, from movie to movie, are extremely similar. Others have noticed, too, but you know what? Other composers are exactly the same way! Have you ever compared Titanic to another James Horner soundtrack? And what about Pirates of the Caribbean to Gladiator? I suppose that's probably true in any art form. A painter will always have his style - things that look the same from picture to picture. We are limited in our hand movements - can you really ever change your own handwriting all that much? And yet a painter's style is what sets him apart from the others, and each picture is uniquely wonderful. No one criticizes a Picasso for being, well a Picasso. So, I guess I'm just saying that people shouldn't judge composers the same way.
And - I can paint a picture or make a sculpture or even scratch out a tune on the violin. I can't vouch for the quality of it all (although I think I could make some of this modern art - a large blue dot on a black background?). But I could never write a new song - completely my own, and not based upon any other song I'd ever heard. So I congratulate anyone who has ever composed music on what, I opine, is the most creative talent of all!
The morning was absolutely perfect - just like a Kansas morning should be - except that it was in Illinois. It was one of those days that are hard to place seasonally - the weather felt like fall, but, considering the earliness of the hour, it could have just as easily been late spring or early summer. The breeze was so slight, it was almost non-existent, but every now and then it would stir up again, teasing myhair and causing meto change myview - looking into the breeze, and also to the landscape beyond.
That evening, I went to a movie, by myself, a brand new experience. I always say that we should all do something each day that we've never done before. The problem is, if you try too hard, you may end up doing several things! And if you don't try hard enough, then you end up looking to hard to make things you've already done work: "Today I made photocopies on the fourth floor of the Internatioanl building." I had to sell my sister's first-born in order to pay the admission fee, and then, as I had a strange craving for popcorn, I had to sell an interest in her second child as well. (Fortunately these shares are not transferrable and revert back to my sister upon death of the holder. And at the rate she's going, the purchasers may very well have died of old age before their claims are withheld).
And what kind of night did I walk out into! It was rainy and dark. Somehow, the dark feels darker here. I wonder if it has to do with all the lights - our eyes never fully adjust to the dark anymore. Or the clouds were lower than usual, even for a rainy night.
But the amazing thing was that it wasn't cold! I stood out in the rain getting gas, and felt wonderful! This is the perfect weather! I've been cold recently, but fall has always been and will always be my season. And I've been saying how lucky I am to get two falls this year: one in Chicago where it comes earlier (which didn't turn out to be entirely true - most of their "fall" days are really wintry) and one when I get back to KC and it's still fall (December - I'm not really sure how KC stacks up to the rest of Kansas, but I am fully expecting it to not get cold until after Christmas, so it better not disappoint).
And, oddly enough, as I write this, I am struck by something incredible! Perhaps it is my lack of disposable free time. Or because I haven't been able to take long walks or climb up hills or drive cross-country. Or it could be the sudden onset of full-fledged coldness that cut my fall painfully short. Either way, I don't feel that odd feeling I get each fall - the "something's coming" feeling. I'm going to have to explore this further.
*On a final note - I'm watching Harry Potter II and I must speak my mind (because I'm so opinionated). John Williams is the most amazing composer alive today! And he stacks up tremendously next to Bach. I have one observation which, although it will not change how I feel about him, must be spoken. His music, his themes, shall I say, can cause one's heart to soar and one's imagination to take wing! But action scenes, from movie to movie, are extremely similar. Others have noticed, too, but you know what? Other composers are exactly the same way! Have you ever compared Titanic to another James Horner soundtrack? And what about Pirates of the Caribbean to Gladiator? I suppose that's probably true in any art form. A painter will always have his style - things that look the same from picture to picture. We are limited in our hand movements - can you really ever change your own handwriting all that much? And yet a painter's style is what sets him apart from the others, and each picture is uniquely wonderful. No one criticizes a Picasso for being, well a Picasso. So, I guess I'm just saying that people shouldn't judge composers the same way.
And - I can paint a picture or make a sculpture or even scratch out a tune on the violin. I can't vouch for the quality of it all (although I think I could make some of this modern art - a large blue dot on a black background?). But I could never write a new song - completely my own, and not based upon any other song I'd ever heard. So I congratulate anyone who has ever composed music on what, I opine, is the most creative talent of all!
Thursday, October 25, 2007
My Wardrobe
I knew a girl who said that she wanted to dress every day with the air of Aubrey Hepburn. I suppose all girls have similar sentiments - they have their "styles." They want to be "in-style" without losing their individuality.
Well, I guess I have a statement, too, although since I've started work, it's been harder to make. You know those adventure or drama movies where the action of the movie only takes place in the course of 48 hours or so? I think in literature they are called romances...but I'm not sure.
Anyway, I want to dress each day as if that day was to result in one of those crazy adventures where I'd be dragged all over the world, kick-boxing, running for my life, wwading through muddy rivers, and engaging in high speed car chases and wrecks. Of course, my wardrobe would get ruined, but the memories would be worth keeping!
This kind of adventure takes a very special type of outfit! Layers are a must - and finally we have a reason for my "power" jacket. I also think something slightly unique would help - whoever heard of going on adventures in a plain old T-shirt? It has to be something that the women in the audience will think, "That's a cute outfit" even when it's covered in grime.
Essentially, it would have to be one that I'd have fun wearing for 48 hours straight as well. (Oh, and comfort's a given).
Now, I have these shoes that are kind of like ballett slippers - and they're stylish! But they're great because they protect my feet and yet give me the ability to feel everything I'm doing, all the texture of the ground. It makes it feel like I would be light on my feet when called to run for my life and yet my feet would be protected when the glass shatters and I have to run on that as well.
So I suppose when I go shopping for my winter wardrobe (by the way, these adventures are best to be had in the warmer seasons), I suppose I should look for clothes that are both exciting and business appropriate.
By the way, sorry for posting about clothes, but I'd like to think it's not typical
Well, I guess I have a statement, too, although since I've started work, it's been harder to make. You know those adventure or drama movies where the action of the movie only takes place in the course of 48 hours or so? I think in literature they are called romances...but I'm not sure.
Anyway, I want to dress each day as if that day was to result in one of those crazy adventures where I'd be dragged all over the world, kick-boxing, running for my life, wwading through muddy rivers, and engaging in high speed car chases and wrecks. Of course, my wardrobe would get ruined, but the memories would be worth keeping!
This kind of adventure takes a very special type of outfit! Layers are a must - and finally we have a reason for my "power" jacket. I also think something slightly unique would help - whoever heard of going on adventures in a plain old T-shirt? It has to be something that the women in the audience will think, "That's a cute outfit" even when it's covered in grime.
Essentially, it would have to be one that I'd have fun wearing for 48 hours straight as well. (Oh, and comfort's a given).
Now, I have these shoes that are kind of like ballett slippers - and they're stylish! But they're great because they protect my feet and yet give me the ability to feel everything I'm doing, all the texture of the ground. It makes it feel like I would be light on my feet when called to run for my life and yet my feet would be protected when the glass shatters and I have to run on that as well.
So I suppose when I go shopping for my winter wardrobe (by the way, these adventures are best to be had in the warmer seasons), I suppose I should look for clothes that are both exciting and business appropriate.
By the way, sorry for posting about clothes, but I'd like to think it's not typical
Monday, October 22, 2007
My Pet Peeves
So something has been on my mind for a long time now, and I have to get it out. This summer was a little stressful at work, and my friend often told me about her "pet peeves." And the more I thought about it, this was my conclusion - we all have pet peeves, but what are they, really? I mean, most of them are things that someone does to us to annoy us. But it's not intentional, or those people wouldn't do it!
I'll get really vulnerable here with an example: many people have a pet peeve about people talking on the cell phone in certain places. Let's go with restaurants. Well, the thing is, the people on the phones obviously don't feel the same way. They're not out to get the non-talkers. And as long as the people in my party don't care, and I don't mind being overheard, I figure I can talk or not talk wherever I want!
That said, I have decided to make a list of pet peeves. These are things that really bother me. But the catch is, they're pet peeves that I do! (So...bad habits maybe?)
1. Not covering my mouth when I yawn - honestly, I've gotten out of habit because I yawn alone. So now you know - never yawn alone and never drink alone. And now I'm all paranoid that I'll forget and do it in front of someone else. being the tortoise...
2. Introducing everything I say - "Can I ask you something?" "So I was thinking the other day..." "So this is what I have to say..." I can't remember all of them. But I will never forget the day (last December) when I discovered that I cannot speak up without introducing whatever phrase, question, or tidbit is coming out of my mouth. And I find it annoying. And I look at my friends and think, "How can you stand that?"
2b. "As I was telling so and so" - Along the lines of introducing, I hate this little phrase of mine. Who cares if what I told you is what I told someone else? Sometimes they don't even know each other! And I personally feel that it's better to keep that a secret anyway - that way the person you're talking to doesn't feel like the second choice.
Now, while I'm making this list, I'll just note one more thing. I've found that, contrary to expectations, I tend to do well with negative people. I think being around negative people forces me to perk up and be the cheery one, the Pollyanna, the person who finds the silver lining in every situation. Think about it! You go to work and want to rant about something, but your coworkers troubles seem more pressing. So you cheer them up, and in the process, get a better perspective on life yourself!
Okay, so I had to edit my list because it could have turned into a rag-on-Sarah fest.
But the point is this: I have asked my accountability partner(s) to try to help me not be so peevy, or peeved, whichever. I mean, when someone does something in traffic that makes me grit my teeth in anger, I may be doing the same thing just down the road.
And the most important part of not allowing pet peeves to get in the way of life: people are a lot easier to love when you look past their little flaws.
I'll get really vulnerable here with an example: many people have a pet peeve about people talking on the cell phone in certain places. Let's go with restaurants. Well, the thing is, the people on the phones obviously don't feel the same way. They're not out to get the non-talkers. And as long as the people in my party don't care, and I don't mind being overheard, I figure I can talk or not talk wherever I want!
That said, I have decided to make a list of pet peeves. These are things that really bother me. But the catch is, they're pet peeves that I do! (So...bad habits maybe?)
1. Not covering my mouth when I yawn - honestly, I've gotten out of habit because I yawn alone. So now you know - never yawn alone and never drink alone. And now I'm all paranoid that I'll forget and do it in front of someone else. being the tortoise...
2. Introducing everything I say - "Can I ask you something?" "So I was thinking the other day..." "So this is what I have to say..." I can't remember all of them. But I will never forget the day (last December) when I discovered that I cannot speak up without introducing whatever phrase, question, or tidbit is coming out of my mouth. And I find it annoying. And I look at my friends and think, "How can you stand that?"
2b. "As I was telling so and so" - Along the lines of introducing, I hate this little phrase of mine. Who cares if what I told you is what I told someone else? Sometimes they don't even know each other! And I personally feel that it's better to keep that a secret anyway - that way the person you're talking to doesn't feel like the second choice.
Now, while I'm making this list, I'll just note one more thing. I've found that, contrary to expectations, I tend to do well with negative people. I think being around negative people forces me to perk up and be the cheery one, the Pollyanna, the person who finds the silver lining in every situation. Think about it! You go to work and want to rant about something, but your coworkers troubles seem more pressing. So you cheer them up, and in the process, get a better perspective on life yourself!
Okay, so I had to edit my list because it could have turned into a rag-on-Sarah fest.
But the point is this: I have asked my accountability partner(s) to try to help me not be so peevy, or peeved, whichever. I mean, when someone does something in traffic that makes me grit my teeth in anger, I may be doing the same thing just down the road.
And the most important part of not allowing pet peeves to get in the way of life: people are a lot easier to love when you look past their little flaws.
Friday, October 19, 2007
My Book Reports
So, while I haven't had a lot of time for reading lately, I have read a lot of interesting, as well as not interesting, books that I want to share with the world.
Mere Christianity - I don't actually know if I could summarize this book without actually rewriting it. If you read it, I suggest reading the preface, because it's actually useful. C.S. Lewis wrote this book in an attempt to explain the very basics of Christianity, before you add in all the denominational issues. Now, I've been doing a lot of reading on those, and it turns out that the implications of theology are very real and important. That said, many of those issues cannot be fully resolved on earth, and as long as they remain a mystery to us, they shouldn't really divide us. Of course, that is coming from a wishy-washy theologian who was raised in a very accepting church. Anyway, there are two parts of the book that I particularly love. The first section is amazing - it essentially turns faith into logic and vice versa - the ultimate essay on appologetics. In the second half of the book, Lewis has a way of explaining things, using wonderful analogies, that were previously too difficult to explain or wrap my mind around. I always feel, when reading C.S. Lewis's books, whether Chronicles of Narnia or theological discourses, that if I could just express myself as C.S. Lewis does, I could be the world's next great author! I REALLY recommend you read it. But don't buy it. And don't steal it. Because you can borrow it from me! ;)
The History of Christianity - Don't you just love the title? I had to put this book down because better things came along. But I must admit that while it was going, it was good. I was rereading the first 400 years, which I've already read a lot about. But it's interesting to see a change in perspective. For instance, I read one book written by Christians, then a historical book about Constantine that focused ess on the religious aspects. And this book is "history for history's sake." A "realistic" perspective. And it's challenging! Really! Where C.S. Lewis made faith logical, this book makes me think, "Does this jive with what I've been taught? Or does one have to be wrong?" And, honestly, I don't think there's ever going to be such thing as an unbiased view on religion. But it's a good read for those of us who love history!
The Rise of the American Mob - Honestly, I don't know if this book or the one before are accurately titled here. Anyway, I was interested in the mob, so my sister got me this for my sojourn in Chicago. It's actually full of a lot of little mini-stories about the mob. So where the Christianity book was too analytical, this one isn't enough! I would rather have one detailed book about one mob ring than several little chapters about them.
For Young Women Only - This is a cute little book for...teenage girls...(it's counterpart is for married women, so where does a single girl in her twenties fit in?) and essentially breaks down the differences between men and women by looking at how guys are different, how to treat them, how not to treat them, and what they wish we knew about them. I've read a similar book before. There are things in here that made both me and Kristen (I borrowed it from her) go - WHAT?!
For Men Only - WHY am I reading a book for men? Because it's fun, that's why! I actually think that this book, while it couldn't stand alone, might be more help for women than the female version. First you learn about women, and then you get to see the guys' reactions to women (when they go WHAT?!). And I find myself amused at the things they are surprised at. But the best part is learninga bout women. Honestly, even girls cannot understand girls - we're all so different and run on emotions that it seems impossible. But the book does logically look at some of the workings of the inner mind. I found out why both Kristen and I would always wonder if we were still friends for no reason (coming from two girls who have only been mad at each other in their nightmares). And now I find myself pondering about how many "windows" I have open in my head at a time. Honestly, I'm usually afraid I don't have enough. But then sometimes I proudly think, "Aha! I doubt a guy would have randomly had to juggle these thoughts and remembered to do this..."
Daniel - Okay, not a freestanding book, but it does deserve mention. My friend Janel says this is her favorite book of the Bible, and I always thought it was kind of strange - like Revelation. Sure, I like the story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego (who wouldn't like names like that?) but there were all those weird dreams to be interpreted about the "end times" and things like that. Well, this time around I was reading an NIV study Bible - and it really cleared things up. That book is amazing! It seems that every major historical event between the time of Daniel and the time of Christ was predicted - major military upsets, kings, how they rose and fell...fascinating!
Mere Christianity - I don't actually know if I could summarize this book without actually rewriting it. If you read it, I suggest reading the preface, because it's actually useful. C.S. Lewis wrote this book in an attempt to explain the very basics of Christianity, before you add in all the denominational issues. Now, I've been doing a lot of reading on those, and it turns out that the implications of theology are very real and important. That said, many of those issues cannot be fully resolved on earth, and as long as they remain a mystery to us, they shouldn't really divide us. Of course, that is coming from a wishy-washy theologian who was raised in a very accepting church. Anyway, there are two parts of the book that I particularly love. The first section is amazing - it essentially turns faith into logic and vice versa - the ultimate essay on appologetics. In the second half of the book, Lewis has a way of explaining things, using wonderful analogies, that were previously too difficult to explain or wrap my mind around. I always feel, when reading C.S. Lewis's books, whether Chronicles of Narnia or theological discourses, that if I could just express myself as C.S. Lewis does, I could be the world's next great author! I REALLY recommend you read it. But don't buy it. And don't steal it. Because you can borrow it from me! ;)
The History of Christianity - Don't you just love the title? I had to put this book down because better things came along. But I must admit that while it was going, it was good. I was rereading the first 400 years, which I've already read a lot about. But it's interesting to see a change in perspective. For instance, I read one book written by Christians, then a historical book about Constantine that focused ess on the religious aspects. And this book is "history for history's sake." A "realistic" perspective. And it's challenging! Really! Where C.S. Lewis made faith logical, this book makes me think, "Does this jive with what I've been taught? Or does one have to be wrong?" And, honestly, I don't think there's ever going to be such thing as an unbiased view on religion. But it's a good read for those of us who love history!
The Rise of the American Mob - Honestly, I don't know if this book or the one before are accurately titled here. Anyway, I was interested in the mob, so my sister got me this for my sojourn in Chicago. It's actually full of a lot of little mini-stories about the mob. So where the Christianity book was too analytical, this one isn't enough! I would rather have one detailed book about one mob ring than several little chapters about them.
For Young Women Only - This is a cute little book for...teenage girls...(it's counterpart is for married women, so where does a single girl in her twenties fit in?) and essentially breaks down the differences between men and women by looking at how guys are different, how to treat them, how not to treat them, and what they wish we knew about them. I've read a similar book before. There are things in here that made both me and Kristen (I borrowed it from her) go - WHAT?!
For Men Only - WHY am I reading a book for men? Because it's fun, that's why! I actually think that this book, while it couldn't stand alone, might be more help for women than the female version. First you learn about women, and then you get to see the guys' reactions to women (when they go WHAT?!). And I find myself amused at the things they are surprised at. But the best part is learninga bout women. Honestly, even girls cannot understand girls - we're all so different and run on emotions that it seems impossible. But the book does logically look at some of the workings of the inner mind. I found out why both Kristen and I would always wonder if we were still friends for no reason (coming from two girls who have only been mad at each other in their nightmares). And now I find myself pondering about how many "windows" I have open in my head at a time. Honestly, I'm usually afraid I don't have enough. But then sometimes I proudly think, "Aha! I doubt a guy would have randomly had to juggle these thoughts and remembered to do this..."
Daniel - Okay, not a freestanding book, but it does deserve mention. My friend Janel says this is her favorite book of the Bible, and I always thought it was kind of strange - like Revelation. Sure, I like the story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego (who wouldn't like names like that?) but there were all those weird dreams to be interpreted about the "end times" and things like that. Well, this time around I was reading an NIV study Bible - and it really cleared things up. That book is amazing! It seems that every major historical event between the time of Daniel and the time of Christ was predicted - major military upsets, kings, how they rose and fell...fascinating!
Sunday, October 14, 2007
My Future Careers
So...it looks like I'm out of Chicago pictures. Who knew?
I have half a mind to publish the fairy tale I wrote for the Brouk children - with special additions for my blog.
However, it's about time I relate to everyone my plans for the future. I have a list of jobs that I am totally sure that I will, at some point in life, be performing. These ideas have been cooking in my head for some time, so I can assure you all that I am not acting rashly. However, in typical accounting fashion, I feel obliged to stratify them out into accounting jobs, jobs that require more college, and jobs that require less college. Personally, I find great pleasure in contemplating working at the last tier after I have accomplished all the degree requirements of the first tier.
And on a final note, some of these dreams are real. Others are about as real as naming my daughter Philadelphia. So keep an open mind.
And without further ado:
Accounting Jobs
Chief accountant of SEC
Partner who specializes in pharmaceuticals and then quits and becomes a stock analyst that talksa bout how Merck and Pfizer are doing
FBI Agent
Forensic accountant
Jobs that Require Further Degrees or Skills
Pharmacist
Lawyer
Doctor of Psychology - I can do millions of things with this, but one I'd like to do is specialize in guy/girl communications and use my knowledge to develop a flight training program geared towards women
Pilot - maybe professional, maybe a missionary pilot
Governor of Kansas - I have great plans for that state. Plans that are going to make me a shoe-in for the office
Jobs that Require Less Degrees or Skills
Motivational speaker/writer - This would be so easy if there was something I was passionate about! Maybe my Five Step Plan to Greater Self-Confidence! Maybe intercultural communications!
Backup singer/dancer
Waitress - particularly if I work at a country club. The goal is to do this after I get my doctorate in psychology along with my JD in law, and then if the rich millionaire's trophy wives are snooty with me, I can think, "Yeah, how many degress do you have?"
Bank teller
Pharmacy tech - I know I've done this one, but I really loved it! Grass is always greener, I suppose
Administrative assistant
Writer
Mailroom worker - how could I forget the first time around? Or alternatively mail carrier
DEA officer - like FBI agent but less accounting and more drugs and Spanish
Maid - I've thought it would be fun to be a hotel maid, but recently I've been thinking it would be cool to be an overnight janitor - mostly for the overnight part...it would be freaky to be in a large building all alone but fulfilling to have a set list of things to do and then go home
Nanny - of rich kids...because I don't really like kids...but if they were the Vogelsangs or under 3...
I feel as though I'm missing something really obvious here...if so, I guess I'll update the list.
I have half a mind to publish the fairy tale I wrote for the Brouk children - with special additions for my blog.
However, it's about time I relate to everyone my plans for the future. I have a list of jobs that I am totally sure that I will, at some point in life, be performing. These ideas have been cooking in my head for some time, so I can assure you all that I am not acting rashly. However, in typical accounting fashion, I feel obliged to stratify them out into accounting jobs, jobs that require more college, and jobs that require less college. Personally, I find great pleasure in contemplating working at the last tier after I have accomplished all the degree requirements of the first tier.
And on a final note, some of these dreams are real. Others are about as real as naming my daughter Philadelphia. So keep an open mind.
And without further ado:
Accounting Jobs
Chief accountant of SEC
Partner who specializes in pharmaceuticals and then quits and becomes a stock analyst that talksa bout how Merck and Pfizer are doing
FBI Agent
Forensic accountant
Jobs that Require Further Degrees or Skills
Pharmacist
Lawyer
Doctor of Psychology - I can do millions of things with this, but one I'd like to do is specialize in guy/girl communications and use my knowledge to develop a flight training program geared towards women
Pilot - maybe professional, maybe a missionary pilot
Governor of Kansas - I have great plans for that state. Plans that are going to make me a shoe-in for the office
Jobs that Require Less Degrees or Skills
Motivational speaker/writer - This would be so easy if there was something I was passionate about! Maybe my Five Step Plan to Greater Self-Confidence! Maybe intercultural communications!
Backup singer/dancer
Waitress - particularly if I work at a country club. The goal is to do this after I get my doctorate in psychology along with my JD in law, and then if the rich millionaire's trophy wives are snooty with me, I can think, "Yeah, how many degress do you have?"
Bank teller
Pharmacy tech - I know I've done this one, but I really loved it! Grass is always greener, I suppose
Administrative assistant
Writer
Mailroom worker - how could I forget the first time around? Or alternatively mail carrier
DEA officer - like FBI agent but less accounting and more drugs and Spanish
Maid - I've thought it would be fun to be a hotel maid, but recently I've been thinking it would be cool to be an overnight janitor - mostly for the overnight part...it would be freaky to be in a large building all alone but fulfilling to have a set list of things to do and then go home
Nanny - of rich kids...because I don't really like kids...but if they were the Vogelsangs or under 3...
I feel as though I'm missing something really obvious here...if so, I guess I'll update the list.
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
My Hotel
And who would have guessed there'd be a beach in Chicago? Well...maybe the Chicagoans would have guessed....
This was actually somethiing I had considered including in my "Something Beautiful" post. Everyone thinks an egg was laid in Chicago! I didn't want to make a new post for a while, because I so love that song. But I have an unsual night of free time, and there are lots of fun posts that I think I can make!I just want to say how wonderful my living condition is right now. For someone right out of college, I have it pretty nice. I have a maid, a concierge, and a cook! I also have a pool, rec room, and pool table. Pretty sweet, huh?
I've had one complaint only in my stay here: the people are too nice! What I mean is, I cannot pass a member of the staff without a, "Good morning!" "Good evening!" or "Have a nice day!" And those who know me, know how much I enjoy these trivialities.
Of course, what had annoyed me for a few weeks suddenly became meaningful a few days ago. Nothing happened, really. I just realized something. Other than personal preferences, and a staff that's really good at following instructions, there may be a deeper reason that everyone is so cheery around here.
I view this whole experience as an adventure. However, many of the people who are staying at this inn with me have lives that they have left to come up here. They may have families that they don't get to see except on hurried weekends. I bet it would be comforting to always be greeted and treated respectfully by the people you see every day. So I suppose I'll try not to let it bother me so much anymore.
Besides, I've been trying to stay away from pet peeves. Where are my accountability partners when I need them?
Sunday, October 7, 2007
My Something Beautiful
So, this building stands out as probably the most boring in Chicago....but, at the base of it:
Are the most beautiful gardens! It was amazing! I think the architect and the landscape architect got together to do this on purpose....to draw the eye down from the useful but bland building, to the amazing scenery below! And I also thought it appropriate for this post.
This is a map of Chicago on the top of a sewer cover! It was really neat!Again today I feel compelled to discuss the lyrics of a song. Some of you may know this song as the one I plan to walk down the aisle to: "Something Beautiful" by the Newsboys. ;)
However, today I had the pleasure of listening to it as I flew over the upper midwest, over a layer of clouds. You know those cloudy days where everything is gray. All of the sudden, in the plane, we broke through the gray to where the clouds were white and shining: reflecting the sun in a way that makes you think of the purest tone of white that you'll ever see! They rolled below, while we skimmed them, like flying over a hilly mystery land. I wanted to jump out of the plane, knowing in my head that I would fall through but in my heart that the clouds would catch me.
As beautiful of the "artistic representation of God" countdown, we traveled over clouds that rose up like coral under a sea of thinner clouds. I wish I could have had someone with me to share the wonder with.
However, I did have the Newsboys. And as I watched the clouds and pondered their beauty, I heard the lyrics to this song, and it seemed to speak to me at this time of my life.
"I want to start it over. I want to start again. I want a new beginning. One without an end. I feel it inside, calling out to me."
What a way to start the song! The chance to begin again! To do everything right! No matter when we believe, we will always stumble and err. But there's always the chance to start again. And that's what we want! We want to be as white as those clouds! As beautiful! That's true beauty!
"It's the voice that whispers my name. It's the kiss without any shame. Something beautiful. Like the song that stirs in my head. Singing love will take us where. Something's beautiful."
The voice whispering to us. The songs in our heads. God is calling us to beauty in Him...he's whispering, or, in my case, singing it to me. Loud and clear. Telling us that it's what we want.
"It's the child on her wedding day. It's the daddy who gives her away. Something beautiful. When we laugh so hard we cry. All the love between you and I. Something beautiful."
I see this verse as about friendship. The connections we make that we don't want to give up. How we have inside jokes and histories together. Times that we will never forget. How I can sit and pick out hundreds of different "best days ever!" And they were all made that way by the people I love! So here I am, trying to stay connected to my friends, given a chance to start anew in other areas of my life. This chance is beautiful!
And you know what else is beautiful? The techno music. The crescendos! The way the music swells and grows and stops dramatically...oh! What a song!
And I would be remiss if I didn't say that I think of Megan when I hear it now, because it makes her think of me, which makes me think of her thinking of me. Does that even make sense?
Saturday, October 6, 2007
My Languages
Thisis a fun picture with the Hancock tower in the background, and it looks tiny! Just a fun trick of the eye.
So, I am excited to report that I am multilingual. Then again, I think most people are. Once we get out of the idea of a typical language like English and Spanish (so I'm up to two there), we'll find that many of us speak secret languages.
First of all, I speak music. I have always thought that it's cool that musicians can read a page of music as quickly and fluently as a page of written words. Each note consists of so many facets: length, pitch, style, and tone. And yet, musicians can sight read new music quickly. And, of course, you could say that each instrument a musician plays is like an entirely new language.
There are also the silly technical languages that we all speak. For instance, I speak accounting and flying. Even though the language is English, I find myself using day to day terms that the average person would not use or understand. So now I'm up to six.
There's also computer languages, and there are a lot of types of these. There's programming languages: I used to know a bit of Basic and Visual Basic. My friend speaks Mac. (I'm learning, but I'm only fluent in PC). And then there's typing! Any good typist has an amazing skill! Think about it. We hit the keys so quickly, just like with music, without even thinking. But the order of the keys on the keyboard don't seem to make much logical sense. It's muscle memory.
There's sports: if you play or know the lingo. I can't claim any of these languges. But I've heard guys who almost go into another language when they talk about sports and the current players and stats. Fanatasy football? I definately don't speak that.
What other languages are out there? I think there might be regional languages, when we know the traditions and cultures of our places. I'm not talking about dialects. I'm talking about being able to show someone the ropes of your native situation. Everyone's an expert here. I know the language of my family - their quriks and traditions...I guess it's a stretch.
So what does that bring me up to? English, Spanish, Piano, Violin, PC, Typing, Accounting, and Flying. Eight languages. I'd say that's pretty good for someone just out of college.
Tuesday, October 2, 2007
My Game
So, I've discovered that in Chicago (not just this city, but many places. K-State has this problem also) there are millions of beautiful little sites just like this! Fountains! Parks! Lovely landscaping! Marbled sidewalks and mosaics! Gardens. I would love to take a book or my laptop or just my ipod out to one of these spots and sit and enjoy it on my time off. But whenever I have the time or inclination to have 'me' time, I'm not in a position to get to them! Or, on the other side of that, I have a favorite spot that I just don't want to miss out on! I mean, like most things, I would love to try new things. But many days, I'm so happy with what I've already had before, I don't want to miss out on it! But this spot was beautiful, and when I went back that night, there was a cannon shooting water into the river!
Okay, so My Game:
I play a little game - mostly with myself - without a name, although I suppose it could be called "When Was the First Time I..."
Favorite topics in this game include people. I've had several friends that kind of slid into my life. It wasn't like I started a new job and met my coworkers. It was like our paths crossed through mutual friends for a long time. Kristal is my prime example of this. For people like this, it's kind of like a detective game, thinking back. First you think it was this day, but wait! You were both in the dorms together!
Or you take people whose meeting was very concrete but look back on it after days or weeks of friendship. What was my first impression? Usually, it's wrong. Sometimes, it's random. I wish I had a good example. All I can think of is meeting my coworkers a few weeks ago - I actually think most of my impressions were right.
I also play this game with popular phrases. I remember when "I'm not going to lie..." entered my life: New Orleans Mission Trip. And "It is what it is" seems to be popular since I've returned from Orlando.
The final category this game works well for is electronics. Can you remember the first time you used an electronic key card instead of a key to get into a hotel room? When was the first time you saw a CD? What were your impressions of cell phones when they first came out? Do I sound like I'm 60 years old yet?
I suppose this game is a little like, "Where were you when..." or "What were you doing when..." You know, like we ask out parents - "Pearl Harbor happened" or "You heard about JFK being assassinated" or "On 9/11."
So I don't know if I'm crazy, quirky, or somewhere in the middle. It's just something I like to think about.
Sunday, September 30, 2007
My Day in Chicago (More Recently, but Not Today)
We had a model train garden, where all the buildings were famous landmarks made entirely of wood or natural substances. And now the internet won't let me upload any more photos....so that was my day at the Botanical Gardens! Only backwards! Hey, I've got some really good Random Sarah posts coming up, but I'm going to try to catch up with my pictures...or maybe I'll start doing one per...that'll work! 
The "water" gardens - you could look at lily pads - very modern looking!
I kind of grew tired of taking pictures after a while - mostly because it was all so beautiful! Thank goodness for digital cameras that don't run out of film!
Some of these pictures I'm more without comment. I just thought they were cool and should be shared. Not that I'm some photography guru who adds color and beauty to the world through her work. I just thought, for those who couldn't be there...and maybe as an incentive to go yourself someday!
This "secret" path kind of led me to nowhere, but it was kind of dreamy going down it!
Beautiful bridge over to the Japanese gardens. It's so simple and useful, and yet intriguing!
This Faun fountain reminded me of Mr. Tumnus. But it also made me think you could pull back the head and a doorway would open to a secret passage!
The English Garden was my favorite. Isn't this just the most perfect place to sit down and talk or read a book? Study?
I thought this rose very pretty. The gardens made me think about nature and humans. How nothing's perfect. As a whole, God's creation is perfect. But every thing has some flaw to it. The Amish and Muslims insert flaws into their artwork to convey the idea that man cannot create perfection. But I think God inserts it into nature to remind us that we cannot be perfect on our own.
Beautiful bridge over to the Japanese gardens. It's so simple and useful, and yet intriguing!
This Faun fountain reminded me of Mr. Tumnus. But it also made me think you could pull back the head and a doorway would open to a secret passage!
The English Garden was my favorite. Isn't this just the most perfect place to sit down and talk or read a book? Study?
I thought this rose very pretty. The gardens made me think about nature and humans. How nothing's perfect. As a whole, God's creation is perfect. But every thing has some flaw to it. The Amish and Muslims insert flaws into their artwork to convey the idea that man cannot create perfection. But I think God inserts it into nature to remind us that we cannot be perfect on our own. Monday, September 24, 2007
My Day in Chicago (A Long Time Ago)
This is the view from the Hancock Tower. It's shorter, but you can get closer to the window, so you can see practically straight down. Those buildings would be considered tall! 
I took this photo from the top of the Sears Tower. I took a lot of photos up there, but I'm posting this one because a) the building looks cool, doesn't it? and b) That's the view to the south side of Chicago. Where the mafia had its run....
At the planetarium they had a huge exhibit on the Medieval times...I think the purpose was to show us how they watched the planets back in the day of limited means, and with superstitions abounding. Ironically, I got home that night and watched a TV show on Nostradamus - an astrologer. Anyway, I got to see what it was like to be a student at a Medieval university. Of course, I tried on a purple robe, but I'm not going to show that. Then I got to be the king of Ancient Babylon consulting the stars to determine if my empire was going to fall. I figured I could just consult Daniel....
The something something Planetarium...why can I not remember the name? Anyway, it was so pretty on the outside! So was the Field Musuem! Very Roman/Greek...just beautiful. 
Apparently I get to show you my day backwards, because I can't figure out how to move the pictures around on the page. After being shrunk to 1/100th my size and exploring dirt, wandering through and ancient tomb, and Africa, I found the Hall of Plants! I took this picture for Janel, then, when I was done with the musuem (jewels were next....oooh....aaah) I actually went inside. At which point I experienced severe deja vu. I would experience it again later in the day....
This is a lovely view of the Chicago skyline as I took the boat taxi from Navy Pier to the Field Musuem. When I came in the first time on the airplane, we turned so I could see the skyline, and I thought, "Wow! It really is huge! It's more buildings than any city I've ever seen!" Then the plane turned some more, and I really saw Chicago.
Saturday, September 22, 2007
My Chocolate
I have decided to take a break from my usual rantings and opinions to talk about some of the interesting things I'm seeing and experiencing here in Chicago.
There is the quaintest little downtown area in Naperville. It's got cute shops and restaurants. Adorable. And if you're ever in the southwest Chicago suburbs area, you have to stop in at
"Ethel's Chocolate Lounge."
In college I was introduced to the "coffee shop." It's a place people go to do homework, meet friends, conduct business, meet Christian guys (according to my friend - although I've never seen evidence of this), and, of course, to drink coffee.
This shop is like a coffee shop, only it's totally devoted to chocolate. Chocolate! What a wonderful idea! Now, granted, this idea is a little more girly, so I doubt you'll be meeting any Christian guys there - unless their girlfriends persuaded them to go. Actually, the place made me think of the little Tea House Harry Potter went to on is date with Cho Chang...nerdy, I know.
Anyway, it's decorated in pink and brown. There's chocolate like any candy store. But there's so much more. You can get a pair of cups of cocoa and a dozen or so little chocolate pieces. Then you take it back to one of the couches in the back, or some of the tables, and just chat and socialize with your friends! Better even than the cocoa deal - fondue!
I kid you not, doesn't this just sound like the best place to go on a winter Saturday morning? Actually, to me, it seems like you could have a serious chocolate overload if you go there. But as long as I'm writing reviews, I give the chocolate lounge three thumbs up, and I can't wait to go there again!
There is the quaintest little downtown area in Naperville. It's got cute shops and restaurants. Adorable. And if you're ever in the southwest Chicago suburbs area, you have to stop in at
"Ethel's Chocolate Lounge."
In college I was introduced to the "coffee shop." It's a place people go to do homework, meet friends, conduct business, meet Christian guys (according to my friend - although I've never seen evidence of this), and, of course, to drink coffee.
This shop is like a coffee shop, only it's totally devoted to chocolate. Chocolate! What a wonderful idea! Now, granted, this idea is a little more girly, so I doubt you'll be meeting any Christian guys there - unless their girlfriends persuaded them to go. Actually, the place made me think of the little Tea House Harry Potter went to on is date with Cho Chang...nerdy, I know.
Anyway, it's decorated in pink and brown. There's chocolate like any candy store. But there's so much more. You can get a pair of cups of cocoa and a dozen or so little chocolate pieces. Then you take it back to one of the couches in the back, or some of the tables, and just chat and socialize with your friends! Better even than the cocoa deal - fondue!
I kid you not, doesn't this just sound like the best place to go on a winter Saturday morning? Actually, to me, it seems like you could have a serious chocolate overload if you go there. But as long as I'm writing reviews, I give the chocolate lounge three thumbs up, and I can't wait to go there again!
Friday, September 21, 2007
My Catch Phrases
I'm not going to lie. That particular phrase first came to my attention over Spring Break, 2006. In fact, I think someone pointed out that it was kind of a "catch phrase."
Ever since I've been in Chicago, I've been surprised to hear people saying things that I only recently started hearing in Kansas. Now, I'm not surprised that phrases can be just as trendy as any fad of fashion. What I wonder about is how they spread!
Who comes up with this particular phrase? Perhaps it was a movie star, or public figure, like other fads. But I think the words we use are more a reflection of the people we hang around with. A lot of our mannerisms come from those who are close to us, until we can't always tell who started them.
What amazes me is how phrases like that can spread so quickly! I mean, think about the very real differences between how people talked in the '50's and how they talk now. And also think about the geographical differences between Chicago and Kansas.
So, imagine it like a plague. Buddy says something new and unique. His friend Allison hears it and start using it herself. Her friend Joey comes in from the big city, and starts to say it himself. And then he flies off to New York city, where someone overhears his cell phone conversation, and so on...
Isn't it amazing? And what would be more amazing would be able to work backwards. To find Buddy. Does he always come up with fun catch phrases? Or was it just lucky that this one caught on. Does he even know he was the first one to say it? Did he say it all his life, or did he just make it up one day? Is he an influential personality in general, or is he usually quiet, and the wonderfulness of the phrase was due mostly to the fact that he speaks so little, and therefore everything he says is inspired?
So, here's the challenge. Find something that will be the next big language fad. A phrase, a word....I want to hear it on national TV in a year, and I want it to have come from you! (Or me)
Ever since I've been in Chicago, I've been surprised to hear people saying things that I only recently started hearing in Kansas. Now, I'm not surprised that phrases can be just as trendy as any fad of fashion. What I wonder about is how they spread!
Who comes up with this particular phrase? Perhaps it was a movie star, or public figure, like other fads. But I think the words we use are more a reflection of the people we hang around with. A lot of our mannerisms come from those who are close to us, until we can't always tell who started them.
What amazes me is how phrases like that can spread so quickly! I mean, think about the very real differences between how people talked in the '50's and how they talk now. And also think about the geographical differences between Chicago and Kansas.
So, imagine it like a plague. Buddy says something new and unique. His friend Allison hears it and start using it herself. Her friend Joey comes in from the big city, and starts to say it himself. And then he flies off to New York city, where someone overhears his cell phone conversation, and so on...
Isn't it amazing? And what would be more amazing would be able to work backwards. To find Buddy. Does he always come up with fun catch phrases? Or was it just lucky that this one caught on. Does he even know he was the first one to say it? Did he say it all his life, or did he just make it up one day? Is he an influential personality in general, or is he usually quiet, and the wonderfulness of the phrase was due mostly to the fact that he speaks so little, and therefore everything he says is inspired?
So, here's the challenge. Find something that will be the next big language fad. A phrase, a word....I want to hear it on national TV in a year, and I want it to have come from you! (Or me)
Thursday, September 20, 2007
My Chopsticks
So, I wanted to write about more substantial matters, but we went to sushi today, and it got me thinking.
How in the world did Asians come up with the idea for chopsticks? And how come it spread to so many different countries? I mean, when you think about it, wedging your food between two sticks of wood is a very good idea. Did western cultures start off with a chopstick device and then develop up to the fork? Just curious...
I personally think that the fork was a little better instrument - you can stab or scoop, and it works well with the knife.
On the other hand, if you ever watch a native-born Asian eat, they are just as efficient as I am with a fork. Perhaps more so.
How in the world did Asians come up with the idea for chopsticks? And how come it spread to so many different countries? I mean, when you think about it, wedging your food between two sticks of wood is a very good idea. Did western cultures start off with a chopstick device and then develop up to the fork? Just curious...
I personally think that the fork was a little better instrument - you can stab or scoop, and it works well with the knife.
On the other hand, if you ever watch a native-born Asian eat, they are just as efficient as I am with a fork. Perhaps more so.
Wednesday, September 19, 2007
My Sequel
Yesterday in my quiet time, I decided I wanted to give the day to the Lord. I think that in doing this I wanted to be the kind of "holy" person CS Lewis had been talking about who fulfilled all these qualities: busy, but not stressed, kind, but doesn't need anyone, joyful, etc. Qualities that make a person stand out, without them even having to say anything.
Well, that lasted about until I went out the door. I mostly forgot about the whole thing.
At work, I was stressed out because I had nothing to do. At all. Actually, I suppose I did have assignments, but they were few and far between. It was starting to look like my old Raytheon internship, where I'd make the rounds, asking for work to do, complete my 15 minute task, and start all over again.
Then things got shook up. Literally. They moved us from my cozy 6th floor room, where I had a few people who would give me tasks to do, down to the 1st floor - smaller group and (even more stressful) NEW PEOPLE!
So I went home utterly depressed. This was supposed to be the job I had for life, and yet, I had nothing to do. When I did have something to do, it wasn't really a task that required a CPA. At this point, I was thinking, "God, I gave this day to You. What happend?"
Now, before you judge me, I wasn't asking him how he could do this to me. Although that did come up. This question was about myself. How could I let myself get so caught up in my own cares? I was not pleasant at work yesterday - and less so as the day went on. How could i forget that easily?
If you're at all wondering about the title of this post, I'm getting to it, and it's the best part! This morning I got to work and, while setting up, one of my new roommates (a senior manager)introduced himself to me. And he asked me if I had anything to do! He immediately set me up with a project that took several hours, and which fully met all the expectations I had preconcieved about being an auditor. Then Ryan, a former and current roommate who used to use his right-hand man Dan, asked me for help - because I was there and Dan wasn't.
Further, when I got to thinking about it, it was probably better to be away from the people who had given me tasks before, just because their tasks were short, and these new tasks were....longer.
So, here's the lesson I learned in this: to wait upon the Lord. Just like in my song. See, even though I never actually gave myself to Him yesterday, I guess you could say I started. But whether or not we're talking blessings or not, my timeline was obviously different than the rest of the world's. All the work I could hope for fell into my lap, and if I had just stopped my whining yesterday and turned around to greet my new coworkers, I might have realized that sooner.
As it happened, I've had yet another lesson in patience and timing.
And keeping my promises: they could have helped me out more yesterday than they could have today!
Well, that lasted about until I went out the door. I mostly forgot about the whole thing.
At work, I was stressed out because I had nothing to do. At all. Actually, I suppose I did have assignments, but they were few and far between. It was starting to look like my old Raytheon internship, where I'd make the rounds, asking for work to do, complete my 15 minute task, and start all over again.
Then things got shook up. Literally. They moved us from my cozy 6th floor room, where I had a few people who would give me tasks to do, down to the 1st floor - smaller group and (even more stressful) NEW PEOPLE!
So I went home utterly depressed. This was supposed to be the job I had for life, and yet, I had nothing to do. When I did have something to do, it wasn't really a task that required a CPA. At this point, I was thinking, "God, I gave this day to You. What happend?"
Now, before you judge me, I wasn't asking him how he could do this to me. Although that did come up. This question was about myself. How could I let myself get so caught up in my own cares? I was not pleasant at work yesterday - and less so as the day went on. How could i forget that easily?
If you're at all wondering about the title of this post, I'm getting to it, and it's the best part! This morning I got to work and, while setting up, one of my new roommates (a senior manager)introduced himself to me. And he asked me if I had anything to do! He immediately set me up with a project that took several hours, and which fully met all the expectations I had preconcieved about being an auditor. Then Ryan, a former and current roommate who used to use his right-hand man Dan, asked me for help - because I was there and Dan wasn't.
Further, when I got to thinking about it, it was probably better to be away from the people who had given me tasks before, just because their tasks were short, and these new tasks were....longer.
So, here's the lesson I learned in this: to wait upon the Lord. Just like in my song. See, even though I never actually gave myself to Him yesterday, I guess you could say I started. But whether or not we're talking blessings or not, my timeline was obviously different than the rest of the world's. All the work I could hope for fell into my lap, and if I had just stopped my whining yesterday and turned around to greet my new coworkers, I might have realized that sooner.
As it happened, I've had yet another lesson in patience and timing.
And keeping my promises: they could have helped me out more yesterday than they could have today!
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