So, I had been toying around with removing my Facebook account.
I went inactive for a while, then just up and de-activated it.
My conclusion, I got tired of the social network, plugged in, worn out, redundant, sifting through garbage, day in and day out of it all.
FB is neat, it's interesting, it's nice being "connected" to people in a sense, seeing what's going on with people etc. etc., but I'm not one that thrives on that, I don't need it, don't seek it. I'm more of a solitude kind of person, I don't mind it, find it nice a lot of times and really end up finding myself to keep myself occupied with. If you're by yourself, who else do you have but yourself? Plus, in today's day and age there's plenty of things to think about, dwell on, meditate on, figure out, think through and deal with.
One of the things I got tired of on FB was the constant updates by the same people about either the same stuff or some other meaningless stuff. I don't care about your dog, about your sports team or about someone who was rude to you.
Too much junk to filter through and such a waste of time dealing with it and managing it.
I did like it for some of the updates I would read. About contributing to others posts, being able to say a quick "hello" of some sort. I did like being plugged in from a distance, but a far distance. I have found myself on occasion thinking - I'll check FB. I do wonder, am I missing anything? Am I missing any interesting, useful, of value updates I would normally like to know about? I can imagine things going on, finding out about them later and someone saying - well, it was on FB!
I know a few people who aren't on FB and when I was on would think - oh I want to post to so and so, but oh yeah they aren't on. I know they would hear stuff about what was on FB and probably be interested, but for one reason or another resisted.
Now I'm one of those, but having had been on there I wonder, does anyone even notice you're gone when you leave? I mean realistically out of the hundreds of friends I'm sure people have on average, do they notice? Do they care? Does it matter? Probably not. I just hope those people don't think I de-friended them for some reason, you know because of the potential drama that can cause :o)
Wednesday, January 11, 2012
Tuesday, January 10, 2012
My Dad and the Camera
So, back in the beginning of July my Dad was hospitalized with some heart issues.
To keep a long story short, I took my original camera a Canon 300D SLR with me.
I've had this camera for oh, 7yrs or so, taken 12,000 pictures probably with it.
Originally it cost $1000 as it was one of the first Digital Cameras with an interchangeable lens.
I took a lot of really great pics with it, a lot of family memories, a lot of weddings etc.
For some reason, I figured I would be taking some pictures going back home.
Not sure why, I lived there for 26 years and my Dad was in the hospital so it wasn't like I really had anything I wanted to take a picture of.
But, on the way there I decided to park my car at my work and walk 15-20minutes to the rail system here (that was a pain), with a suitcase in tow with a broken wheel, a laptop and the camera around my neck. Needless to say, I was in a rush and it was a difficult process as I also had decided to take the Train once I got to CA to Escondido to save money.
Once I finally got on the train, I was sweaty after lugging everything around going this route (hope to never do it again). On the train, there was no place to sit so I stood in the onboarding area that was open. There was a guy with his bike on the train and he looked fairly suspect. I remembering thinking - I better not let my stuff out of sight and checked and made sure I had my camera around my neck (the best place to make sure I didn't forget it).
Well, I got tired of standing and finally found a spot to sit. I took off the camera, opened up the laptop (my work laptop) and started watching a movie. I had my earphones in and after some time, a conductor came by and checked my ticket. A long while after that, the conductor came by again and let me know my stop was coming up. At that time, I realized I was just about at my stop so I had to hurry, I took my headphones off, I unplugged my laptop from the outlet and put everything back in my laptop bag so I wouldn't lose it seeing as it was my work laptop. I grabbed my suitcase and got off of the train. Once I was off, I was trying to figure out which way to go and where to meet my family to pick me up. Well, after a short while I realized I had left my camera on the train. I eventually called Amtrak and put in a lost claim which they of course never called me back about. I followed up once, but they said unless they called me it wasn't found. I even put a post on the Craigslist in San Diego, all to no avail.
So now, 6 months later I started investigating new cameras to get to replace it. My camera I lost isn't worth much now if I got the same one, but I always hoped of upgrading it since it was really old. I wish I still had it to at least sell it to offset the cost of a new one. Plus, I lost the kit lens it came with and a 50mm lens which was awesome and will cost $100 to replace.
I look back and never was upset about losing it. Disappointed yes, but at the time and given the circumstances of going to see my Dad, I take it all in stride. I accept the fact that the whole situation with my Dad and everything that happened had a great cost financially involved with it and still does, but money isn't everything, it's just a resource that unfortunately we need in this day and age to get by. And since resources are currently short, I'm very hesitant to make this sort of investment.
Another thought came up today as part of this process, Clayton is going to start playing Soccer soon. It will be the first organized sport he's been involved with.
Soccer was also a sport my Dad was involved in when I was growing up. He used to referee games and I would go to the games and occupy myself while he was refereeing.
He used to play soccer himself until he blew out his knee many years ago.
Soccer was actually the first sport I was involved in myself. My Dad was the one, who if I remember right taught me some how to play and used to kick the ball around with me.
I ended up playing for 5yrs and my Dad even coached one of my teams.
We only won one game but I distinctly remember being the goalie and getting the game saving stop on penalty kicks.
He was involved in the games and with the other Dads who were there.
He took great pride in me and playing. I don't remember how good I may have been, but I remember being pretty decent. I know I won a trophy a time or two.
I always prided myself on hustling and being quick no matter where I was or how the game was going.
So now that Clayton is going to play I was thinking it's sad that my Dad won't be here to see it. To hear about it. To witness it. And on that thought, I was thinking the camera I had on the way to see my Dad was lost and without a replacement I won't be able to capture Clayton's time playing a sport I loved, my Dad loved and now he may come to love.
To keep a long story short, I took my original camera a Canon 300D SLR with me.
I've had this camera for oh, 7yrs or so, taken 12,000 pictures probably with it.
Originally it cost $1000 as it was one of the first Digital Cameras with an interchangeable lens.
I took a lot of really great pics with it, a lot of family memories, a lot of weddings etc.
For some reason, I figured I would be taking some pictures going back home.
Not sure why, I lived there for 26 years and my Dad was in the hospital so it wasn't like I really had anything I wanted to take a picture of.
But, on the way there I decided to park my car at my work and walk 15-20minutes to the rail system here (that was a pain), with a suitcase in tow with a broken wheel, a laptop and the camera around my neck. Needless to say, I was in a rush and it was a difficult process as I also had decided to take the Train once I got to CA to Escondido to save money.
Once I finally got on the train, I was sweaty after lugging everything around going this route (hope to never do it again). On the train, there was no place to sit so I stood in the onboarding area that was open. There was a guy with his bike on the train and he looked fairly suspect. I remembering thinking - I better not let my stuff out of sight and checked and made sure I had my camera around my neck (the best place to make sure I didn't forget it).
Well, I got tired of standing and finally found a spot to sit. I took off the camera, opened up the laptop (my work laptop) and started watching a movie. I had my earphones in and after some time, a conductor came by and checked my ticket. A long while after that, the conductor came by again and let me know my stop was coming up. At that time, I realized I was just about at my stop so I had to hurry, I took my headphones off, I unplugged my laptop from the outlet and put everything back in my laptop bag so I wouldn't lose it seeing as it was my work laptop. I grabbed my suitcase and got off of the train. Once I was off, I was trying to figure out which way to go and where to meet my family to pick me up. Well, after a short while I realized I had left my camera on the train. I eventually called Amtrak and put in a lost claim which they of course never called me back about. I followed up once, but they said unless they called me it wasn't found. I even put a post on the Craigslist in San Diego, all to no avail.
So now, 6 months later I started investigating new cameras to get to replace it. My camera I lost isn't worth much now if I got the same one, but I always hoped of upgrading it since it was really old. I wish I still had it to at least sell it to offset the cost of a new one. Plus, I lost the kit lens it came with and a 50mm lens which was awesome and will cost $100 to replace.
I look back and never was upset about losing it. Disappointed yes, but at the time and given the circumstances of going to see my Dad, I take it all in stride. I accept the fact that the whole situation with my Dad and everything that happened had a great cost financially involved with it and still does, but money isn't everything, it's just a resource that unfortunately we need in this day and age to get by. And since resources are currently short, I'm very hesitant to make this sort of investment.
Another thought came up today as part of this process, Clayton is going to start playing Soccer soon. It will be the first organized sport he's been involved with.
Soccer was also a sport my Dad was involved in when I was growing up. He used to referee games and I would go to the games and occupy myself while he was refereeing.
He used to play soccer himself until he blew out his knee many years ago.
Soccer was actually the first sport I was involved in myself. My Dad was the one, who if I remember right taught me some how to play and used to kick the ball around with me.
I ended up playing for 5yrs and my Dad even coached one of my teams.
We only won one game but I distinctly remember being the goalie and getting the game saving stop on penalty kicks.
He was involved in the games and with the other Dads who were there.
He took great pride in me and playing. I don't remember how good I may have been, but I remember being pretty decent. I know I won a trophy a time or two.
I always prided myself on hustling and being quick no matter where I was or how the game was going.
So now that Clayton is going to play I was thinking it's sad that my Dad won't be here to see it. To hear about it. To witness it. And on that thought, I was thinking the camera I had on the way to see my Dad was lost and without a replacement I won't be able to capture Clayton's time playing a sport I loved, my Dad loved and now he may come to love.
Tebows epic win
If you haven't heard or aren't familiar with football, or perhaps look back at this some time later, Tim Tebow had an Epic/Historic win the other night.
Selected by everyone to lose, given no chance and no hope, turned on seemingly by teammates and possibly his coaches, backed into a corner with no where to go.
Granted, he did have major shortcomings in the weeks loss before to the Kansas City Chiefs, the weeks before that he didn't so so well either. But in these cases, I think he was truly handicapped in what he was allowed to do and what he was willing to risk. I think he held back in a lot of regards not wanting to ruin his teams chance of winning.
But Sunday night, that all changed.
He was challenged by his VP of Operations, Hall of Famer QB John Elway to "pull the trigger".
And he did, in a huge way. He unleashed the kind of offense and QB passing numbers everyone didn't think he could put up. Against a Defense ranked #1 in all of the NFL. Against the defending AFC Champions. In a playoff game. He threw for 316 yds with his throws averaging 31.6yds a pass. for 2 TD's and one TD running with 50yds rushing as well. Everyone looked at the passing numbers and saw 316 aka John 3:16 his verse. Biblical significance or not, he also threw for 316yds in '09 in the Championship game vs Ohio State.
His throws were crisp, on point and fit in tight places that a Professional QB is expected to be able to throw in. There were some ducks that were thrown, some passes that weren't so hot, but he did what was needed to win throwing the ball.
Not to mention, he won the game in Overtime in 11 seconds with an 80yd TD pass which was a record in and of itself. Quickest OT game ever and with the new OT rules.
By the way, the other record he broke was John Elway's most passing yards in a playoff debut. When John was told this on the field by a reporter, he said "I love it, perfect". This, coming from a guy who was non-committal to his QB who won 6 in a row, who managed more wins in 5 games than his previous QB of 2yrs.
Tebow is unconventional. His throwing motion, his playing style, is all unconventional. Add to that his Faith, his outspokenness for the Gospel of Christ. His good character, his morals, his beliefs, his unwavering outspoken praise of Jesus. Even his drive and desire to win is unconventional. This overriding factor, that x Factor isn't enough to get even his toughest critics persuaded.
Even after all he has accomplished there are still critics. There are still haters. There are still people who wish to see his demise. I guess the press just needs a good subject matter with a big enough target to be able to try to hit. Hit as they may, this target doesn't return evil for evil. He takes full responsibility, is humble and continually tries to improve.
After each game, he takes the time to meet with a child through his foundation who may be terminally ill or severely ill. He says that no matter if he wins or loses, this is what truly matters and it does.
David's next Goliath is the Patriots. They already beat the Broncos a few weeks ago handily. Now, the Patriots have the coach who originally drafted Tebow on their staff to help them. Help as he may try, I'm not sure it will help as things have changed in a short amount of time. Their offense was totally overhauled by the new coach John Fox. The plays they are running are probably entirely different. Who knows, he may have some personnel insight but this team never performed like this when he was at the helm.
The Broncos are without several important starters due to injury (Safety Brian Dawkins and an Offensive lineman who broke his leg, possibly Eric Decker one of his favorite Wide Receivers). Now, they are playing at Foxboro (Pats home) this time around. Now, much more is at stake, a trip to the Conference Championships.
This time around, the Patriots are facing a resurgent Tim Tebow and a Broncos team with a little swagger in their step. Can Tebow unleash on the Pats like he did with the Steelers? That has yet to be seen. But, I do feel they have a better opportunity this time around. Given last weeks passing performance, that could open a lot of things - more passing, more running because they think he'll pass. Who knows. But if you give Tebow a second chance, you better hope you're prepared because he's a fast learner and a hard worker.
The Patriots are one of the top passing teams, but their defense is not good at all. If the Broncos can run the ball and sustain some long drives to run out the clock and keep the ball out of Tom Brady's hands (one of the greatest QB's of all time and someone I like) they most certainly have a chance. The Patriots are coached by a great coach, are at home and have the experience in these situations. But, I still like the Broncos chance. Never count the underdog out, this one was 9pt underdogs last week at home!
Oh, the other thing this Epic win did from a few days ago, it sure quieted a lot of bashing and chatter around me. With that kind of performance, no one can say anything. Let's hope this weekend he does it again!
By the way, I was the only one who picked him to win against the Steelers in our Football Pool at work :o)
Selected by everyone to lose, given no chance and no hope, turned on seemingly by teammates and possibly his coaches, backed into a corner with no where to go.
Granted, he did have major shortcomings in the weeks loss before to the Kansas City Chiefs, the weeks before that he didn't so so well either. But in these cases, I think he was truly handicapped in what he was allowed to do and what he was willing to risk. I think he held back in a lot of regards not wanting to ruin his teams chance of winning.
But Sunday night, that all changed.
He was challenged by his VP of Operations, Hall of Famer QB John Elway to "pull the trigger".
And he did, in a huge way. He unleashed the kind of offense and QB passing numbers everyone didn't think he could put up. Against a Defense ranked #1 in all of the NFL. Against the defending AFC Champions. In a playoff game. He threw for 316 yds with his throws averaging 31.6yds a pass. for 2 TD's and one TD running with 50yds rushing as well. Everyone looked at the passing numbers and saw 316 aka John 3:16 his verse. Biblical significance or not, he also threw for 316yds in '09 in the Championship game vs Ohio State.
His throws were crisp, on point and fit in tight places that a Professional QB is expected to be able to throw in. There were some ducks that were thrown, some passes that weren't so hot, but he did what was needed to win throwing the ball.
Not to mention, he won the game in Overtime in 11 seconds with an 80yd TD pass which was a record in and of itself. Quickest OT game ever and with the new OT rules.
By the way, the other record he broke was John Elway's most passing yards in a playoff debut. When John was told this on the field by a reporter, he said "I love it, perfect". This, coming from a guy who was non-committal to his QB who won 6 in a row, who managed more wins in 5 games than his previous QB of 2yrs.
Tebow is unconventional. His throwing motion, his playing style, is all unconventional. Add to that his Faith, his outspokenness for the Gospel of Christ. His good character, his morals, his beliefs, his unwavering outspoken praise of Jesus. Even his drive and desire to win is unconventional. This overriding factor, that x Factor isn't enough to get even his toughest critics persuaded.
Even after all he has accomplished there are still critics. There are still haters. There are still people who wish to see his demise. I guess the press just needs a good subject matter with a big enough target to be able to try to hit. Hit as they may, this target doesn't return evil for evil. He takes full responsibility, is humble and continually tries to improve.
After each game, he takes the time to meet with a child through his foundation who may be terminally ill or severely ill. He says that no matter if he wins or loses, this is what truly matters and it does.
David's next Goliath is the Patriots. They already beat the Broncos a few weeks ago handily. Now, the Patriots have the coach who originally drafted Tebow on their staff to help them. Help as he may try, I'm not sure it will help as things have changed in a short amount of time. Their offense was totally overhauled by the new coach John Fox. The plays they are running are probably entirely different. Who knows, he may have some personnel insight but this team never performed like this when he was at the helm.
The Broncos are without several important starters due to injury (Safety Brian Dawkins and an Offensive lineman who broke his leg, possibly Eric Decker one of his favorite Wide Receivers). Now, they are playing at Foxboro (Pats home) this time around. Now, much more is at stake, a trip to the Conference Championships.
This time around, the Patriots are facing a resurgent Tim Tebow and a Broncos team with a little swagger in their step. Can Tebow unleash on the Pats like he did with the Steelers? That has yet to be seen. But, I do feel they have a better opportunity this time around. Given last weeks passing performance, that could open a lot of things - more passing, more running because they think he'll pass. Who knows. But if you give Tebow a second chance, you better hope you're prepared because he's a fast learner and a hard worker.
The Patriots are one of the top passing teams, but their defense is not good at all. If the Broncos can run the ball and sustain some long drives to run out the clock and keep the ball out of Tom Brady's hands (one of the greatest QB's of all time and someone I like) they most certainly have a chance. The Patriots are coached by a great coach, are at home and have the experience in these situations. But, I still like the Broncos chance. Never count the underdog out, this one was 9pt underdogs last week at home!
Oh, the other thing this Epic win did from a few days ago, it sure quieted a lot of bashing and chatter around me. With that kind of performance, no one can say anything. Let's hope this weekend he does it again!
By the way, I was the only one who picked him to win against the Steelers in our Football Pool at work :o)
Wednesday, December 28, 2011
Consensus by Committee
Alright, been slacking on posting here, but I have had a thought sticking with me for quite a while I wanted to write about. I told my wife about it last night and in talking about it out loud I realized how intriguing it really is.
So, once again at work this environment is very dynamic, challenging, annoying, perplexing, frustrating and at times feels like I'm back in my High School days.
Everyone I work with is fairly good natured and they are nice people who mean well.
But, when you talk to someone about something whether it is sports, politics or religion a great portion of the room that holds 15 people tend to chime in with their opinion. Granted I am the minority in a lot of respects - Political views (Republican), Religious views (Christian) and as written about previously the Team/Person I'm rooting for in Tim Tebow (I think 1 other person may view him semi-favorable still).
There are the main culprits who like to chime in - (C), (MG), (R) and a few others but (JY) is reasonable and (JB) is fairly passe. There are others (RT) who gives her opinion quite a bit, and a few who occasionally chime in but they aren't as prideful as the main crew.
You see, when you talk about something, referring back to the topic of this post, it seems a fair number of people will chime in, either in agreement or slight opposition. This will go around for a bit, until it seems that the original question/argument/view comes to some sort of consensus/agreement/ or forfeiture of their stance.
So, someone may say they like the President but hate the previous President Bush. Well, consensus has it that most if not all the room agrees with this particular opinion. So for me to say otherwise is like committing conversational suicide. The slanted arguments come out, the strong wills arise and derogatory comments ensue. A topic like this is not something you can sway someone to change their mind about. Reason being, going against the "consensus" is hard to compete with. Because you may answer or argue one point to your cause, but there's always more sitting around the corner waiting for you.
Another example - Tebow is a great player/QB/person. I already know where people stand with this one and (MG) will say anything and everything he can whether it is true or not to deride him from any sort of respect. Now, he does hold a grudge over from college because Tebow beat his team for many years and cannot stand how good his character is.
I can provide all of his successes, but they don't measure up to others "standards", whether they are only measured against Tebow or not. You see, Tebow can win 5-6 games in a row as a QB but somehow he still sucks. Somehow he's still in-superior to anyone else even though he's on the verge of going to the playoffs. Consensus has it that Tebow is just a one show act, not able to maintain longevity in the NFL, not able to be a true QB, not the sole reason for the teams winning, etc. etc.
It's pretty much the mob mentality, so says the mob so goes the crowd. Have you ever tried to steer a mob from a mindset that's already running downhill to the slaughter? It's really quite annoying and frustrating. Even though you see the light, you are unable to direct others to it because of the few who do not want to go towards it.
Some other examples of these types of one directional, one sided conversations
- Existence of Aliens, I heard - You have to be ignorant to believe Aliens don't exist and that we're the only ones out there. I said - You have to be ignorant to believe they do exist. No evidence exists to prove otherwise. There's more evidence that points to God than that points to Aliens, but somehow it's easier to believe in Aliens than in an almighty God who's given us the Bible and Jesus to prove His existence. The one Book that has never been disproven. The one book that is Historically accurate and proves itself time and time again.
- The Lakers suck (team I like)
- George Bush was a horrible president (he wasn't perfect, but tried to do what was right)
- Obama is a good president (he's done some things alright)
- Sarah Palin is stupid (I don't agree here, she's done more than we ever will politically)
- Any company that doesn't have a lot of minorities is racist (not true, it's actually very racist thinking that in my opinion)
- The Bible isn't literal or should be left to interpretation, they say some stories are just stories (I take the Bible as utter and complete truth, to not believe some is to not believe all)
So, once again at work this environment is very dynamic, challenging, annoying, perplexing, frustrating and at times feels like I'm back in my High School days.
Everyone I work with is fairly good natured and they are nice people who mean well.
But, when you talk to someone about something whether it is sports, politics or religion a great portion of the room that holds 15 people tend to chime in with their opinion. Granted I am the minority in a lot of respects - Political views (Republican), Religious views (Christian) and as written about previously the Team/Person I'm rooting for in Tim Tebow (I think 1 other person may view him semi-favorable still).
There are the main culprits who like to chime in - (C), (MG), (R) and a few others but (JY) is reasonable and (JB) is fairly passe. There are others (RT) who gives her opinion quite a bit, and a few who occasionally chime in but they aren't as prideful as the main crew.
You see, when you talk about something, referring back to the topic of this post, it seems a fair number of people will chime in, either in agreement or slight opposition. This will go around for a bit, until it seems that the original question/argument/view comes to some sort of consensus/agreement/ or forfeiture of their stance.
So, someone may say they like the President but hate the previous President Bush. Well, consensus has it that most if not all the room agrees with this particular opinion. So for me to say otherwise is like committing conversational suicide. The slanted arguments come out, the strong wills arise and derogatory comments ensue. A topic like this is not something you can sway someone to change their mind about. Reason being, going against the "consensus" is hard to compete with. Because you may answer or argue one point to your cause, but there's always more sitting around the corner waiting for you.
Another example - Tebow is a great player/QB/person. I already know where people stand with this one and (MG) will say anything and everything he can whether it is true or not to deride him from any sort of respect. Now, he does hold a grudge over from college because Tebow beat his team for many years and cannot stand how good his character is.
I can provide all of his successes, but they don't measure up to others "standards", whether they are only measured against Tebow or not. You see, Tebow can win 5-6 games in a row as a QB but somehow he still sucks. Somehow he's still in-superior to anyone else even though he's on the verge of going to the playoffs. Consensus has it that Tebow is just a one show act, not able to maintain longevity in the NFL, not able to be a true QB, not the sole reason for the teams winning, etc. etc.
It's pretty much the mob mentality, so says the mob so goes the crowd. Have you ever tried to steer a mob from a mindset that's already running downhill to the slaughter? It's really quite annoying and frustrating. Even though you see the light, you are unable to direct others to it because of the few who do not want to go towards it.
Some other examples of these types of one directional, one sided conversations
- Existence of Aliens, I heard - You have to be ignorant to believe Aliens don't exist and that we're the only ones out there. I said - You have to be ignorant to believe they do exist. No evidence exists to prove otherwise. There's more evidence that points to God than that points to Aliens, but somehow it's easier to believe in Aliens than in an almighty God who's given us the Bible and Jesus to prove His existence. The one Book that has never been disproven. The one book that is Historically accurate and proves itself time and time again.
- The Lakers suck (team I like)
- George Bush was a horrible president (he wasn't perfect, but tried to do what was right)
- Obama is a good president (he's done some things alright)
- Sarah Palin is stupid (I don't agree here, she's done more than we ever will politically)
- Any company that doesn't have a lot of minorities is racist (not true, it's actually very racist thinking that in my opinion)
- The Bible isn't literal or should be left to interpretation, they say some stories are just stories (I take the Bible as utter and complete truth, to not believe some is to not believe all)
Wednesday, December 7, 2011
Arguing ones point
So, what exactly is the point of arguing?
I've heard a lot of it lately, been a part of it a lot as well. I'm sitting at work and on a daily basis it seems there is plenty of it to go around. So I thought, what's the point of all of this in the end? Does anyone really genuinely change their mind? Do we really get anywhere doing it?
What are we trying to accomplish with such things really?
Here's a list of ideas I have of why someone may argue (from my perspective)
1) To prove a point
2) To convince someone otherwise
3) To disagree
4) To pridefully not agree with someone
5) To not admit ones wrong actions, thoughts or words
6) To argue for arguments sake
1) Proving a point a lot of times is seemingly pointless. Unless done in a constructive, heartfelt manner this is a hard thing to do. This is especially detrimental in relationships. One must ask, is this point worth proving? Is it beneficial? What are my true motives for doing so?
2) Convincing someone other than what they already believe is very difficult. Especially in today's society, where everyone believes they are "entitled" to their own beliefs, thoughts, rights etc. I've found even with proof, conviction, examples this is not always possible.
3) Disagreement, a lot of times ends up with "agreeing to disagree". But does that really accomplish anything? Why bother embarking down the road if it leads to where you first started? Sure, people get to air out their differences of opinion, thoughts, beliefs etc which in the end seems to be all that happens a lot of times.
4) Pridefully not agreeing with someone. What I'm thinking of in reference to this is when someone knows they are wrong, but refuse to admit it because of pride. In this instance, a lot of "justifications" will be provided to try to prove ones "point". A guy may for instance not "pridefully agree" with his wife because she was right after all.
5) This one kind of ties in with my thoughts listed above, but without the pride involved. That is a difficult thing to do because Pride plays such a prominent role in so many arguments. But for this instance of arguing, not admitting ones wrong actions, thoughts or words could be more so internal than external. It may all boil down to pride in the end and have a lot of "justification" intertwined as well. Maybe this one is a more genuine aspect of simply believing what you know to be the truth and someone else believing the same and not being able to compromise either way.
6) Arguing for arguments sake. There are a lot of these out there. People like to argue just to argue. Maybe they know what they are talking about, but surprisingly I think most people don't when they simply argue for arguments sake. A lot of people do this I'm sure not realizing what they are doing. Someone may say - the sky is blue, and someone else may say - no it's not blue it's overcast. But does it truly matter if it's not exactly what they said?
Arguments in different aspects all tend to have a lot of similarities -
A belief one way or another held by one of the parties involved
A right/wrong aspect - You are either right or you are wrong
Pride (a lot of times)
Justification (reason for your belief)
Hopefully a conclusion (maybe even reached by compromise)
In the end, we are all different people with different upbringings, backgrounds, beliefs, morals, etc.
Not everyone sees eye to eye, not everyone cares to see eye to eye.
This is what I'm thinking of for myself when it comes to arguing.
The main point of arguing is to present another aspect or view on a subject.
I accept that the person may or may not change their mind based on this argument.
It is to be done in a non-confrontational/judgemental manner.
My hope is that the other person has some food for thought to take away from the conversation that may over time or eventually influence their way of thinking, either in general or about the subject in particular.
I don't care to really change people's minds as they are generally old enough to think for themselves, but I do care to get others thinking about the subject that is at hand.
God is almighty and all powerful, He is the only one who can truly change a person's heart.
I hope to leave them with "well, maybe there is something there" after arguing about something.
And hopefully for them to come to their own conclusions.
After all, people who are told or forced to do something generally do it in angst, not genuinely or begrudgingly. But, if someone can do it on their own accord, thinking that they came to the realization on their own, I believe they would be more inclined to genuinely change.
The truth is funny like that, no matter whether someone agrees to it or not, it does force you to think. The truth of Jesus permeates through to the marrow of the bones as the Bible clearly states in Hebrews 4:12 "For the word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword, and piercing as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart."
I'm not confident other general truths have such an effect as the Bible does not state this, but I think it does something. Whether it is to anger someone, offend them or what not, I believe Truth in general has an affect on people whether they choose to believe it or deny it for themselves.
Consider this when faced with your next argument -
Titus 3:9
But avoid foolish controversies and genealogies and strife and disputes about the Law, for they are unprofitable and worthless.
I've heard a lot of it lately, been a part of it a lot as well. I'm sitting at work and on a daily basis it seems there is plenty of it to go around. So I thought, what's the point of all of this in the end? Does anyone really genuinely change their mind? Do we really get anywhere doing it?
What are we trying to accomplish with such things really?
Here's a list of ideas I have of why someone may argue (from my perspective)
1) To prove a point
2) To convince someone otherwise
3) To disagree
4) To pridefully not agree with someone
5) To not admit ones wrong actions, thoughts or words
6) To argue for arguments sake
1) Proving a point a lot of times is seemingly pointless. Unless done in a constructive, heartfelt manner this is a hard thing to do. This is especially detrimental in relationships. One must ask, is this point worth proving? Is it beneficial? What are my true motives for doing so?
2) Convincing someone other than what they already believe is very difficult. Especially in today's society, where everyone believes they are "entitled" to their own beliefs, thoughts, rights etc. I've found even with proof, conviction, examples this is not always possible.
3) Disagreement, a lot of times ends up with "agreeing to disagree". But does that really accomplish anything? Why bother embarking down the road if it leads to where you first started? Sure, people get to air out their differences of opinion, thoughts, beliefs etc which in the end seems to be all that happens a lot of times.
4) Pridefully not agreeing with someone. What I'm thinking of in reference to this is when someone knows they are wrong, but refuse to admit it because of pride. In this instance, a lot of "justifications" will be provided to try to prove ones "point". A guy may for instance not "pridefully agree" with his wife because she was right after all.
5) This one kind of ties in with my thoughts listed above, but without the pride involved. That is a difficult thing to do because Pride plays such a prominent role in so many arguments. But for this instance of arguing, not admitting ones wrong actions, thoughts or words could be more so internal than external. It may all boil down to pride in the end and have a lot of "justification" intertwined as well. Maybe this one is a more genuine aspect of simply believing what you know to be the truth and someone else believing the same and not being able to compromise either way.
6) Arguing for arguments sake. There are a lot of these out there. People like to argue just to argue. Maybe they know what they are talking about, but surprisingly I think most people don't when they simply argue for arguments sake. A lot of people do this I'm sure not realizing what they are doing. Someone may say - the sky is blue, and someone else may say - no it's not blue it's overcast. But does it truly matter if it's not exactly what they said?
Arguments in different aspects all tend to have a lot of similarities -
A belief one way or another held by one of the parties involved
A right/wrong aspect - You are either right or you are wrong
Pride (a lot of times)
Justification (reason for your belief)
Hopefully a conclusion (maybe even reached by compromise)
In the end, we are all different people with different upbringings, backgrounds, beliefs, morals, etc.
Not everyone sees eye to eye, not everyone cares to see eye to eye.
This is what I'm thinking of for myself when it comes to arguing.
The main point of arguing is to present another aspect or view on a subject.
I accept that the person may or may not change their mind based on this argument.
It is to be done in a non-confrontational/judgemental manner.
My hope is that the other person has some food for thought to take away from the conversation that may over time or eventually influence their way of thinking, either in general or about the subject in particular.
I don't care to really change people's minds as they are generally old enough to think for themselves, but I do care to get others thinking about the subject that is at hand.
God is almighty and all powerful, He is the only one who can truly change a person's heart.
I hope to leave them with "well, maybe there is something there" after arguing about something.
And hopefully for them to come to their own conclusions.
After all, people who are told or forced to do something generally do it in angst, not genuinely or begrudgingly. But, if someone can do it on their own accord, thinking that they came to the realization on their own, I believe they would be more inclined to genuinely change.
The truth is funny like that, no matter whether someone agrees to it or not, it does force you to think. The truth of Jesus permeates through to the marrow of the bones as the Bible clearly states in Hebrews 4:12 "For the word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword, and piercing as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart."
I'm not confident other general truths have such an effect as the Bible does not state this, but I think it does something. Whether it is to anger someone, offend them or what not, I believe Truth in general has an affect on people whether they choose to believe it or deny it for themselves.
Consider this when faced with your next argument -
Titus 3:9
But avoid foolish controversies and genealogies and strife and disputes about the Law, for they are unprofitable and worthless.
Monday, November 28, 2011
What if I'm 15?
Now, this song is from 2004 and I think that may have been around the time I heard it.
It is sung by Greg Long who has some solo work out there under his name, but at the time he was also singing with Avalon. I'm not sure where things stand now, but I never forgot the song.
I had searched for it on the internet, looked for it on the various media methods and never found it for years until now.
This song, it's very heart speaks volumes to me in so many ways.
I was sitting at the table
As the waitress took our order
In her eyes I knew that something wasn't right
And before I saw it coming
I was caught up in her story
Of the storms that she had weathered in her life
My friend said can we pray for you
She said I think I'd like you to
She walked away, we bowed our heads
But then he turned to me and said
If it takes fifteen times
To hear about Jesus
For someone to believe
Wherever I stand in line
I've got to make a difference
In case it comes down to me
'Cause, I may be the third, may be the seventh
There may be years in between
But what if I'm fifteen
What if I'm fifteen
Just a chapter in a story
With the ending still unwritten
Do they find the truth of Jesus after all As I listen for the whispers
And I follow where they lead me
I pray that I'll be faithful to the call
If I'm who I'm supposed to be
I know that God can work through me
I may not understand it now
But I believe somehow
If it takes fifteen times
To hear about Jesus
For someone to believe
Wherever I stand in line
I've got to make a difference
In case it comes down to me
'Cause I may be the third, may be the seventh
There may be years in between
But what if I'm fifteen
What if I'm fifteen
God I don't want to miss the chances
When you open the door
What may seem so insignificant
You see so much more
If it takes fifteen times
To hear about Jesus
For someone to believe
Wherever I stand in line
I've got to make a difference
In case it comes down to me
'Cause I may be the third, may be the seventh
There may be years in between
But what if I'm fifteen
What if I'm fifteen
First off, it reminds us about being witnesses for Jesus first and foremost.
"I've got to make a difference, In case it comes down to me"
Secondly, it reignites my compassion for the lost. It reminds me of how great a love our Savior has for us and how compelling it is when someone truly comes to repentance and Faith in Him.
Thirdly, and to me most importantly, it tells me that someone coming to Faith in Christ isn't always a one time deal.
A lot of times with witnessing, I think about results. I think that someone will magically and suddenly repent from their sins at that point and turn to Christ immediately. Well, that is what they should do and what you hope for, but that's not always real life. Just as this song states, it may take many many times for someone to hear about Jesus before their hearts are truly changed.
I think about what point in line I may have been for people, did I do my part?
What point in line may I be for others to come?
Will I be Faithful? Will I turn them to Christ or turn them away?
What number in line may you be?
What number in line might someone else be for those who I'm praying for to come to know Christ and what will they do with the opportunity afforded to them?
It is sung by Greg Long who has some solo work out there under his name, but at the time he was also singing with Avalon. I'm not sure where things stand now, but I never forgot the song.
I had searched for it on the internet, looked for it on the various media methods and never found it for years until now.
This song, it's very heart speaks volumes to me in so many ways.
Fifteen Lyrics
Greg Long
I was sitting at the table
As the waitress took our order
In her eyes I knew that something wasn't right
And before I saw it coming
I was caught up in her story
Of the storms that she had weathered in her life
My friend said can we pray for you
She said I think I'd like you to
She walked away, we bowed our heads
But then he turned to me and said
If it takes fifteen times
To hear about Jesus
For someone to believe
Wherever I stand in line
I've got to make a difference
In case it comes down to me
'Cause, I may be the third, may be the seventh
There may be years in between
But what if I'm fifteen
What if I'm fifteen
Just a chapter in a story
With the ending still unwritten
Do they find the truth of Jesus after all As I listen for the whispers
And I follow where they lead me
I pray that I'll be faithful to the call
If I'm who I'm supposed to be
I know that God can work through me
I may not understand it now
But I believe somehow
If it takes fifteen times
To hear about Jesus
For someone to believe
Wherever I stand in line
I've got to make a difference
In case it comes down to me
'Cause I may be the third, may be the seventh
There may be years in between
But what if I'm fifteen
What if I'm fifteen
God I don't want to miss the chances
When you open the door
What may seem so insignificant
You see so much more
If it takes fifteen times
To hear about Jesus
For someone to believe
Wherever I stand in line
I've got to make a difference
In case it comes down to me
'Cause I may be the third, may be the seventh
There may be years in between
But what if I'm fifteen
What if I'm fifteen
First off, it reminds us about being witnesses for Jesus first and foremost.
"I've got to make a difference, In case it comes down to me"
Secondly, it reignites my compassion for the lost. It reminds me of how great a love our Savior has for us and how compelling it is when someone truly comes to repentance and Faith in Him.
Thirdly, and to me most importantly, it tells me that someone coming to Faith in Christ isn't always a one time deal.
A lot of times with witnessing, I think about results. I think that someone will magically and suddenly repent from their sins at that point and turn to Christ immediately. Well, that is what they should do and what you hope for, but that's not always real life. Just as this song states, it may take many many times for someone to hear about Jesus before their hearts are truly changed.
I think about what point in line I may have been for people, did I do my part?
What point in line may I be for others to come?
Will I be Faithful? Will I turn them to Christ or turn them away?
What number in line may you be?
What number in line might someone else be for those who I'm praying for to come to know Christ and what will they do with the opportunity afforded to them?
Is it what I want it to be?
So, today I noticed at work there was a small Christmas Tree with presents under it.
But then, I saw that the ornaments on the tree were blue and white, representative of Hanukkah.
At first, I was like what the heck? Why do they have to put those clearly visible Jewish tradition colors on a Christmas tree just to incorporate the two holidays/religions? I know it's to appease people first and foremost, so that it doesn't "appear" that anyone favors one religion over another. Or it's a way for Jewish people to celebrate without having to break out a whole menorah. Still, it's quite ridiculous either way. I'm sure something is coming down the pipeline as a symbol of celebrating something Muslim related or what have you.
But in the end, I thought - why do I need them to do what I want them to?
Like, why should I get upset if they aren't making it the way that I think it should be?
In one sense, this is giving into the changing world views of making everything acceptable to everyone and not offending others or standing up for what you believe.
But, I also thought - my idea of Christmas is not affected by what they do. This is work, so they do it this way at work, it's their choice. But in my home, at my house, my decorations reflect differently. Isn't that all that truly matters? I can't force the truth down someone's throat that does not embrace the truth. But I can be an example of my own by my own accord.
I used to have the mentality of just ignoring or pro-crastinating making decisions on things just to not have to deal with them (ok, I still struggle with this at times), but in this instance I truly see no point in fighting over something that clearly is reflective of the company. Now, that doesn't mean I may not say anything against it to my co-workers or say on a blog, but sadly enough I resign myself to the fact that in this day and age, in a Christless culture you cannot simply expect everyone to hold the same morals and values as Jesus Christ commands us to.
But then, I saw that the ornaments on the tree were blue and white, representative of Hanukkah.
At first, I was like what the heck? Why do they have to put those clearly visible Jewish tradition colors on a Christmas tree just to incorporate the two holidays/religions? I know it's to appease people first and foremost, so that it doesn't "appear" that anyone favors one religion over another. Or it's a way for Jewish people to celebrate without having to break out a whole menorah. Still, it's quite ridiculous either way. I'm sure something is coming down the pipeline as a symbol of celebrating something Muslim related or what have you.
But in the end, I thought - why do I need them to do what I want them to?
Like, why should I get upset if they aren't making it the way that I think it should be?
In one sense, this is giving into the changing world views of making everything acceptable to everyone and not offending others or standing up for what you believe.
But, I also thought - my idea of Christmas is not affected by what they do. This is work, so they do it this way at work, it's their choice. But in my home, at my house, my decorations reflect differently. Isn't that all that truly matters? I can't force the truth down someone's throat that does not embrace the truth. But I can be an example of my own by my own accord.
I used to have the mentality of just ignoring or pro-crastinating making decisions on things just to not have to deal with them (ok, I still struggle with this at times), but in this instance I truly see no point in fighting over something that clearly is reflective of the company. Now, that doesn't mean I may not say anything against it to my co-workers or say on a blog, but sadly enough I resign myself to the fact that in this day and age, in a Christless culture you cannot simply expect everyone to hold the same morals and values as Jesus Christ commands us to.
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