One year ago today my father died.
Amazing how fast a year can fly by.
Unbelievable how much it still hurts.
Most of my life my dad was a tyrant.
We feared him.
He was mean and abusive, but your daddy is your daddy and I loved him.
I still love him.
As much as I feared him, I was so very proud of him.
My dad was a Mexican immigrant who didn't speak English when he first came to the U.S.
He graduated from college with two law degrees and a Masters in business.
He was an Officer in the U.S. Army Special Forces.
When he retired he was personnel director for U.S. Southern Command Military Intelligence.
He was 6ft 2 inches over 200 lbs and built like an ox.
I always thought he was just this big, strong super soldier.
He was really a brilliant man.
Knew several languages and I could ask him about just about anything and he would know the answer.
When he died he was 130lbs and had such horrible rheumatoid arthritis that he could barley move without pain.
I would pick him up in my arms and move him around his bed and hospital room and he would look at me in marvel and comment how strong "I" was.
In his last days his mind started wandering, but still could grasp some complicated concepts.
He was in CHF and his heart began going out.
He was maxed out on Dobutamine and Dopamine and yet they could not keep his blood pressure above 90 systolic.
I was his medical power of attorney and was called when they said he didn't have much longer and we'd have to make the decision to take him off "life support".
My mother (from whom he was separated) and my younger brother and I flew out to him in Vegas to talk to him about the decision.
He agreed that he didn't want his remaining days to be in the ICU being tube fed and hooked to IV's.
The thing that was haunting us was his total rejection of Jesus his whole life.
Sure he was suffering, but ending his temporary suffering now and sending him to eternal torment...I shudder at the thought.
OK, I ramble.
I think I commented upon this a year ago.
To make a long story short, he made some what of a death bed commitment.
I'd held onto the belief that he'd give his life to the Lord some day and it came to fruition.
God is faithful.
All that to say, I didn't realize it'd be this hard.
I think of him often and miss him most days.
As it came closer to being one year of his death I began thinking of him more and more.
Yesterday and today I've been really weepy.
Of course, tonight I'm working through 'til morning.
More time to think about it.
Couldn't take my regular start the week nap this afternoon.
My mind was racing too much.
OK, no one is really interested in my whining.
Sorry. but I had to comment on it.
Dang I miss my daddy.
Thursday, December 28, 2006
Monday, November 27, 2006
Ever Been Pulled Over By An Ambulance?
Ever Been Pulled Over By An Ambulance?
OK,
The other morning at 0500 we get a call for a "Man down" in a vehicle.
This call is way, way out in the boonies, almost out of our coverage area.
We roll up and these to cats are zonked, dead to the world.
My partner and I start banging on the windows on both sides.
They wake up, roll down the windows and tell us they were tired and just needed a nap.
We smell no alcohol on or about their persons (Though we couldn't tell if their eyes were red from just being awakened or being baked out of their goreds) and we are, after all, only Paramedics so we can't detain them....they drive off....
We are heading the same way anyway so we followed behind them, though if they headed the other direction we more than likely wood have followed them that way too.
No sooner do they get out onto the highway, but they start weaving back and forth into both lanes AND shoulder.
We follow them for a couple of miles and decide that they are either going to kill themselves or someone else. We like running on good traumas like most Medics, but we would rather prevent them from happening in the first place.
So we decide to pull them over.
We flash the lights and I get on the PA,
"Pull over....Place your vehicle in park...turn the ignition off...take your keys out of the ignition...keep your hands where I can see them..."
My partner and I walk up on each side with our flashlights shining at them.
We start lecturing them until police arrive. They start making excuses that they were so tired, blah, blah, blah...(Hmmm...they were baked)
Cops responded rather quickly and were rolling with laughter when they showed up.
They patted us on the back and gave us Kudos for our first traffic stop.
Can you imagine....How embarrassing...
"Dude, we got stopped by an ambulance. We gotta swear we tell NO ONE."
The other morning at 0500 we get a call for a "Man down" in a vehicle.
This call is way, way out in the boonies, almost out of our coverage area.
We roll up and these to cats are zonked, dead to the world.
My partner and I start banging on the windows on both sides.
They wake up, roll down the windows and tell us they were tired and just needed a nap.
We smell no alcohol on or about their persons (Though we couldn't tell if their eyes were red from just being awakened or being baked out of their goreds) and we are, after all, only Paramedics so we can't detain them....they drive off....
We are heading the same way anyway so we followed behind them, though if they headed the other direction we more than likely wood have followed them that way too.
No sooner do they get out onto the highway, but they start weaving back and forth into both lanes AND shoulder.
We follow them for a couple of miles and decide that they are either going to kill themselves or someone else. We like running on good traumas like most Medics, but we would rather prevent them from happening in the first place.
So we decide to pull them over.
We flash the lights and I get on the PA,
"Pull over....Place your vehicle in park...turn the ignition off...take your keys out of the ignition...keep your hands where I can see them..."
My partner and I walk up on each side with our flashlights shining at them.
We start lecturing them until police arrive. They start making excuses that they were so tired, blah, blah, blah...(Hmmm...they were baked)
Cops responded rather quickly and were rolling with laughter when they showed up.
They patted us on the back and gave us Kudos for our first traffic stop.
Can you imagine....How embarrassing...
"Dude, we got stopped by an ambulance. We gotta swear we tell NO ONE."
Tuesday, November 07, 2006
Heartbreak
I have never been much of a Ted Haggart fan.
Not that I really had anything against him, it's just that for years I attended a church that goes through flavor of the month phases.
Every once in a while everyone there thinks someone; some place or something is the greatest and go overboard with it.
If anyone knows me, they know that I tend to buck convention.
I don't think I'm a rebel or maverick I just don't like to go with the popular flow.
American society is a society of lemmings and the American church is no different within their micro culture.
Ted Haggart was one of those "things" my old church obsessed with.
Even though that's the case my heart is broken by recent events.
I know that so many people looked up to him and were unhinged by recent events.
Before we jump to rash conclusions, judgments or criticisms we need to look to scripture to get perspective on it.
Romans 3:22-24
..Even the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ to all and on all those who believe. For there is no distinction, for all have sinned, and fall short of the glory of God; being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus..
James 2:10
"For whoever keeps the whole law, and yet stumbles in one point, he has become guilty of all."
1 John 1: 8-10
"If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and righteous to forgive us the sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say that we haven't sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us."
We can be disappointed. We can be feel grief or heartache, but we can't shake our heads or point our fingers in judgment. We can't say or even think that it will never happen to us.
As soon as we do, our pride sets us up.
Proverbs 18:12
"Before Destruction the heart of man is proud, but before honor is humility."
I don't know if anyone has had an opportunity to read the letter that Ted Haggart wrote to his congregation. I'll include the letter that Gayle, his wife wrote as well.
Ted's Letter:
To my New Life Church family:
I am so sorry. I am sorry for the disappointment, the betrayal, and the hurt. I am sorry for the horrible example I have set for you.
I have an overwhelming, all-consuming sadness in my heart for the pain that you and I and my family have experienced over the past few days. I am so sorry for the circumstances that have caused shame and embarrassment to all of you.
I asked that this note be read to you this morning so I could clarify my heart's condition to you. The last four days have been so difficult for me, my family and all of you, and I have further confused the situation with some of the things I've said during interviews with reporters who would catch me coming or going from my home. But I alone am responsible for the confusion caused by my inconsistent statements. The fact is, I am guilty of sexual immorality, and I take responsibility for the entire problem.
I am a deceiver and a liar. There is a part of my life that is so repulsive and dark that I've been warring against it all of my adult life.
For extended periods of time, I would enjoy victory and rejoice in freedom. Then, from time to time, the dirt that I thought was gone would resurface, and I would find myself thinking thoughts and experiencing desires that were contrary to everything I believe and teach.
Through the years, I've sought assistance in a variety of ways, with none of them proving to be effective in me. Then, because of pride, I began deceiving those I love the most because I didn't want to hurt or disappoint them.
The public person I was wasn't a lie; it was just incomplete. When I stopped communicating about my problems, the darkness increased and finally dominated me. As a result, I did things that were contrary to everything I believe.
The accusations that have been leveled against me are not all true, but enough of them are true that I have been appropriately and lovingly removed from ministry. Our church's overseers have required me to submit to the oversight of Dr. James Dobson, Pastor Jack Hayford, and Pastor Tommy Barnett. Those men will perform a thorough analysis of my mental, spiritual, emotional, and physical life. They will guide me through a program with the goal of healing and restoration for my life, my marriage, and my family.
I created this entire situation. The things that I did opened the door for additional allegations. But I am responsible; I alone need to be disciplined and corrected. An example must be set.
It is important that you know how much I love and appreciate my wife, Gayle. What I did should never reflect in a negative way on her relationship with me. She has been and continues to be incredible. The problem is not with her, my children or any of you. It was created 100 percent by me.
I have been permanently removed from the office of Senior Pastor of New Life Church. Until a new senior pastor is chosen, our Associate Senior Pastor Ross Parsley will assume all of the the responsibilities of the office. On the day he accepted this new role, he and his wife, Aimee, had a new baby boy. A new life in the midst of this circumstance - I consider the confluence of events to be prophetic. Please commit to join with Pastor Ross and the others in church leadership to make their service to you easy and without burden. They are fine leaders. You are blessed.
I appreciate your loving and forgiving nature, and I humbly ask you to do a few things.
1.) Please stay faithful to God through service and giving.
2.) Please forgive me. I am so embarrassed and ashamed. I caused this and I have no excuse. I am a sinner. I have fallen. I desperately need to be forgiven and healed.
3.) Please forgive my accuser. He is revealing the deception and sensuality that was in my life. Those sins, and others, need to be dealt with harshly. So, forgive him and, actually, thank God for him. I am trusting that his action will make me, my wife and family, and ultimately all of you, stronger. He didn't violate you; I did.
4.) Please stay faithful to each other. Perform your functions well. Encourage each other and rejoice in God's faithfulness. Our church body is a beautiful body, and like every family, our strength is tested and proven in the midst of adversity. Because of the negative publicity I've created with my foolishness, we can now demonstrate to the world how our sick and wounded can be healed, and how even disappointed and betrayed church bodies can prosper and rejoice.
Gayle and I need to be gone for a while. We will never return to a leadership role at New Life Church. In our hearts, we will always be members of this body. We love you as our family. I know this situation will put you to the test. I'm sorry I've created the test, but please rise to this challenge and demonstrate the incredible grace that is available to all of us.
Ted Haggard
Gayle's Letter:
Dear Women of New Life Church,
I am so sorry for the circumstances that have led me to write this letter to you today. I know your hearts are broken; mine is as well. Yet my hope rests steadfastly in the Lord who is forever faithful.
What I want you to know is that I love my husband, Ted Haggard, with all my heart. I am committed to him until death "do us part". We started this journey together and with the grace of God, we will finish together.
If I were standing before you today, I would not change one iota of what I have been teaching the women of our church. For those of you who have been concerned that my marriage was so perfect I could not possibly relate to the women who are facing great difficulties, know that this will never again be the case. My test has begun; watch me. I will try to prove myself faithful.
I love you all so much, especially you young women - you were my delight.
To all the church family of New Life Church - Ted and I are so proud of you. You are all we hoped you would be. In our minds, there is no greater church.
As you try to make sense of these past few days, know that Ted believes with all his heart and soul everything he has ever taught you, those things you are putting into practice. He is now the visible and public evidence that every man (woman and child) needs a Savior.
We are grateful for your prayers for our family.
I hold you forever in my heart.
Gayle Haggard
I've heard some people comment, "But how can we trust what he says now?"
True that once someone has wounded us trust is hard to earn back.
Wouldn't you want the benefit of the doubt if you'd been one to make a mistake?
When you and I make mistakes, even big ones, the world isn't usually shouting it from the rooftops. (Though one day all of our sins will be)
The enemy thinks that he scored a victory. What an opportunity to see what healing the Lord can do. We expect God's grace when it comes to our own transgressions, but we find it hard to extend that grace to others, especially when they are in leadership. We expect our leaders to be infallible. There is only one who is perfect. He is the one that is most grieved through this all, but He is the one who will be glorified in this when His people act with compassion, healing, mercy and forgiveness.
I have been moved by the song "Broken & Beautiful" by Mark Schultz and think that it's really appropriate for this time. JMHO.
Mark Schultz - Broken & Beautiful
From the album Broken & Beautiful
There’s a businessman, there’s a widowed wife
A smiling face with a shattered life
A teenage girl with a choice to make
It’s crowded here in church today
And the preacher says as the sermon ends
Please close your eyes, bow your heads
Is there anyone in need of prayer,
Oh Jesus wants to meet you here
Cause we all fall short, and we all have sinned
But when you let, God’s grace break in
(Chorus)
It’s Beautiful, Beautiful
Come as you are
Surrender your heart
Broken and beautiful
Well he’d never been to church before
But he came today as a last resort
His world was crashing in
And he was suffocating in his sin
But tears rolled down as hope rushed in
He closed his eyes, raised his hands
Worshipping the God who can
Bring him back to life again
(Chorus)
And it’s beautiful, beautiful
Come as you are
Surrender your heart
Broken and beautiful, beautiful
Come as you are
Surrender your heart
Broken and beautiful
Cause there’s nothing more beautiful at all
Than when His sons and daughters call, broken
Hallelujah, Hallelujah
Come as you are
Hallelujah, Hallelujah
Come as you are
(Chorus)
Broken and beautiful, beautiful
Come as you are
Surrender your heart
Broken and beautiful, beautiful
Come as you are
Surrender your heart
Broken and beautiful
Come as you are
Broken and beautiful, beautiful
Come as you are
Surrender your heart
Broken and beautiful
Broken and beautiful
Broken and beautiful
Beautiful
Remember, "There but for the grace of God, goes [I]"
John Bradford-Circa 1550
~
Monday, October 23, 2006
With No Disrespect.
With No Disrespect.
I mean this with no disrespect, but if you are over 1oo lbs over weight lose it!
The last two cardiac arrests I worked the patients were well over 100 lbs over weight.
Tonight the patient was (according to the family) 425, if not more.....5ft 9inch.
No neck, impossible to get a tracheal tube in, took me two tries to get an interosseous line because over weight patients usuallyhave nothing for vascular access and trying to find the tibial land marks are difficult.
Being overweight not only causes health complications, but complications in how health care provider can treat you.
Let me tell you, cardiac arrests in the field suck enough...
-sigh
The last two cardiac arrests I worked the patients were well over 100 lbs over weight.
Tonight the patient was (according to the family) 425, if not more.....5ft 9inch.
No neck, impossible to get a tracheal tube in, took me two tries to get an interosseous line because over weight patients usuallyhave nothing for vascular access and trying to find the tibial land marks are difficult.
Being overweight not only causes health complications, but complications in how health care provider can treat you.
Let me tell you, cardiac arrests in the field suck enough...
-sigh
Friday, October 13, 2006
It's Official!
It's Official!
We respond to quite a bit of roll your eyes moments when we respond to calls and find why people call 911.
The other night I had officially the most stupid reason anyone has ever called 911.
"You're going to hate me" Says the woman. "But, my husband left for work and left the ceiling fan on high and I asked him to turn it on low."
The woman has is wheel chair bound, mind you and she couldn't reach the ceiling fan cord, so I give her grace points for that. What not only took the grace points away, but took negative grace points away was the next comment.
"Look, my poor doggy is shivering."
Ah, Tulsa and their reasons for calling 911.
~
We respond to quite a bit of roll your eyes moments when we respond to calls and find why people call 911.
The other night I had officially the most stupid reason anyone has ever called 911.
"You're going to hate me" Says the woman. "But, my husband left for work and left the ceiling fan on high and I asked him to turn it on low."
The woman has is wheel chair bound, mind you and she couldn't reach the ceiling fan cord, so I give her grace points for that. What not only took the grace points away, but took negative grace points away was the next comment.
"Look, my poor doggy is shivering."
Ah, Tulsa and their reasons for calling 911.
~
Wednesday, October 11, 2006
2000 Of Something
Saw this quote today.
I absolutely loved this quote so I thought I'd post it.
I like rice. Rice is great if you're hungry and want 2000 of something.
- Mitch Hedberg
I absolutely loved this quote so I thought I'd post it.
I like rice. Rice is great if you're hungry and want 2000 of something.
- Mitch Hedberg
Tuesday, October 10, 2006
Plagerism
Well, It's not really plagerism because I'm giving him credit, but I'm posting another's stuff.
I am not much into eschatology.
The philosophy that I follow is more in the line of being obedient to what the Lord is telling me to do NOW than worring about what might happen in the future.
As I am very interested in global events and have a passion for Muslims I have been particularly enjoying the writtings from a site called Joel's Trumpet.
In light of Islam's influence on global events the writtings of George Otis (Circa 1990) in "The Last Of The Giants" Otis' prognostications and insight into Islam's influence on the last days are quite compelling.
Though not the eschatological topic I'm going to post a letter written by Joel Richardson.
Joel Richardson, as I mentioned his site Joel's Trumpet, wrote a letter to the President of Iran.
Unless the Lord makes a way I doubt that Mahmoud Ahmadinejad ever really reads it, but it's none the less a great read.
Hope you enjoy it.
I am not much into eschatology.
The philosophy that I follow is more in the line of being obedient to what the Lord is telling me to do NOW than worring about what might happen in the future.
As I am very interested in global events and have a passion for Muslims I have been particularly enjoying the writtings from a site called Joel's Trumpet.
In light of Islam's influence on global events the writtings of George Otis (Circa 1990) in "The Last Of The Giants" Otis' prognostications and insight into Islam's influence on the last days are quite compelling.
Though not the eschatological topic I'm going to post a letter written by Joel Richardson.
Joel Richardson, as I mentioned his site Joel's Trumpet, wrote a letter to the President of Iran.
Unless the Lord makes a way I doubt that Mahmoud Ahmadinejad ever really reads it, but it's none the less a great read.
Hope you enjoy it.
An Open Letter to President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad
September 6, 2006
Mr. Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, President of the Islamic Republic of Iran,
Please allow me to introduce myself. My name is Joel Richardson. Actually this is not my real name, but rather a pen name that I use when engaging in interfaith dialogue with Muslims—a labor of love which has occupied me for the past several years. The reason that I use this pen name is because I have been issued some very specific Islamic death threats after a Muslim that I was dialoguing with converted to Christianity. The e-mail that I received essentially threatened that my head would be cut off and that my family would be killed. Since those days, I have continued to dialogue with Muslims in a spirit of peace and love, although I now have chosen to use this pen name. As such, I ask for your forgiveness for not fully revealing myself to you. I would very much like to do so. Nevertheless, it is my sincere hope that if this letter should miraculously find its way into your hands that you would consider what this little American Christian of no account would like to express to you.
It was with a certain measure of amazement that I read the news that you would be visiting my country next week to address the United Nations General Assembly. Indeed you have surprised the world on more than one occasion over the past several months since your recent election as President of the Islamic Republic of Iran. Many people all over the world have read your open letter to George W. Bush, the President of the United States and invited him to convert to Islam. Many of us also watched as you were interviewed by Mike Wallace on 60 Minutes. As for myself, I have been closely following your brief career as the President of Iran. I have watched as you have made some very bold and at times some very threatening statements. I have also closely followed your many open declarations about the soon emergence of your Messiah figure, Imam al-Mahdi. And of course, most have closely watched as your nation continues its apparent rush toward the acquiring of nuclear capabilities.
As a Christian and an American, I write to you not only to express some of my concerns, but also to ask you some questions—if you would allow me the privilege to do so.
I am greatly concerned of course for the future relationship between our two countries; the U.S. and Iran. I am most concerned of course for the future of my children—their safety and their well-being. But I am also greatly concerned for the millions of lives of common people that also may be at risk in these seemingly tense times—Iranian, Israeli, American and European—Muslim, Christian and Jewish.
Mr. President, in your letter to President Bush, you said this:
"I have no doubt that telling lies is reprehensible in any culture, and you do not like to be lied to."
Of course, while much of the world has never heard of the doctrines of Kithman or al-Taqiyya, as a Shi’a Muslim, you are most certainly aware of these terms, are you not? Certainly you are aware of the words of Imam Jafar Sadiq, the sixth Imam of Shi’a Islam who clearly disagrees with you about the reprehensibility of lying. In fact, he even states that Allah will dishonor anyone who tells the truth about certain elements of Islam:
"One who exposes something from our religion is like one who intentionally kills us."
"You belong to a religion that whosoever conceals it, Allah will honor him and whosoever reveals it, Allah will disgrace him."
I have also read from A Shi’a Enclopedia a specific definition of al-Taqiyya:
"The word ‘al-Taqiyya’ literally means: ‘Concealing or disguising one's beliefs, convictions, ideas, feelings, opinions, and/or strategies at a time of imminent danger, whether now or later in time, to save oneself from physical and/or mental injury.’ A one-word translation would be ‘Dissimulation’".
So Mr. President, my first question to you would be the following: Would I be wrong to believe the words of your Imam and the words of your scholars by understanding that Shi’a Muslims are commanded to purposefully hide what they truly believe in order to mislead others as to the true nature of their religion, their "beliefs, convictions, ideas, feelings, opinions, and/or strategies"? As a Christian I am immediately reminded of the words of Jesus who told his followers never to hide their religion:
You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven. Matthew 5:14-16
Mr. President, to the vast majority of the people of the world, religion and deceit are simply not compatible concepts. Basic human intuition exposes such as completely contrary to the divine nature. God does not lie, nor does he ask his followers to lie or hide the truth. In short Mr. President, how could any religion that claims to emanate from God—who is pure light and truth—ever actually command and promote deception toward non-believers and outsiders?
And even more importantly, Mr. President; you are a Shi’a Muslim. In light of the doctrines of Kithman and al-Taqiyya, how can anyone not question the truthfulness of anything that you say to those of us outside of the Shi’a faith? How do the people and the leaders of the world not know that you are simply utilizing al-Taqiyya in an attempt to deceive us?
Mr. President, despite the fact that your nation essentially sits atop an endless supply of oil, how is it that you expect intelligent people to believe you when you claim that your only motivation to achieve nuclear capabilities is for energy? In light of the millions of lives that may potentially be at risk due to a potential nuclear exchange, wouldn’t the leaders of the world be utterly foolish to accept anything you say regarding your nuclear program? And wouldn’t their foolishness be multiplied by the fact that you regularly seem to make outlandish comments such as your recent statement at the "World without Zionism Conference":
"They say, ‘how could we have a world without America and Zionism?’ But you know well that this slogan and goal can be achieved and can definitely be realized."
Mr. President, certainly you must realize how such comments will be viewed by the rest of the world.
Mr. President, I would like to be as frank and as honest with you as I can. What thoughts come to your mind when you think about such men as Adolph Hitler, or Saddam Hussein? History has judged these men as both pawns of the devil and failures, but a far worse judgment awaits both of these men when they face their Creator. Surely you would not desire to be found in the company of such men on the Day of Judgment?
Mr. President, I read your invitation issued just today calling the people of the West to Islam. You also said that anyone who declines such an invitation would have a bad future. Mr. President, I would like to now also invite you to become a Christian—a follower of Jesus. I would also like to explain to you why I must decline your invitation to Islam and why you should accept my invitation.
Mr. President, if you would allow me, I would like to tell you a story. You are obviously a very influential Muslim leader. For the sake of this story, let us say that we have two other great and legendary Muslim leaders: Caliph Omar and also Salah' ad-Din (Saladin). These two men are among the most legendary and admired leaders throughout Muslim history. Now imagine if I claimed that both of these great leaders played with little girls' dolls. Initially any self-respecting Muslim would be infuriated at such an allegation. "Never!" it would be protested; "Far be it from Omar or Saladin that they should play with little girls' dolls! These are great men! It is not befitting that Omar or Saladin to say that they would play with dolls!"
Initially this might sound quite reasonable. But what if the story unfolded that both Omar and Saladin had a daughter? And what if we learned that these daughters were most pleased with their Daddy when he got down on the floor and played with them as they played with their little dolls? What if we learned that because of the father's great love for their daughters, that they humbled themselves and did this with their beautiful little daughters on a regular basis? Would these men be better leaders and better men for doing this or would they be less respectable men and poorer leaders? Surely, Mr. President, you would agree that this humble act would make them better men and greater leaders?
Now, what if we learned that Saladin played with his daughters while Omar absolutely refused to do so? What if Omar agreed with the statement above that he was far above ever doing such a thing? Which leader would then be a greater leader? Which would be more appealing? Omar or Saladin? Personally I would see Saladin as being a far better Daddy, a far better man, and thus a far better leader. I’m sure you would agree. As such Saladin would be a better and more admirable leader, while Omar would be a less qualified leader. Remember, Mr. President; true greatness does not need to be guarded. It does not need to be belabored in order to be authentic. True greatness is self-evident and self-preserving.
Your religion claims that God would never become a man, regardless of the reason.
"Far be it from God that He should have a son! It is not befitting of the Almighty that He should do such a thing!" Sura 19:35
But in this attempt to establish Allah as greater, he has simply become more distant. Is not Allah like Omar in the story above? The Christian belief of God, however, is that He is more like unto Saladin, the loving father in the story above. Because God is good in the purest sense, He desires to share Himself with us. He wants to reveal himself to us. He doesn’t merely want us to have abstract knowledge about Him—He wants us to actually know Him. Jesus revealed the man-befriending-God to us. Jesus said:
"I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. If you really knew me, you would know my Father as well. From now on, you do know him and have seen him." John 14:6,7
Mr. President, your religion also refers to Jesus as "The Word of God". Let me ask you, can a person's words be separated from him? Or are a person's words invariably part of him? This is an analogy that God wanted us to understand when we think about the relationship of the Son to the Father. Both the terms, the Son and the Word, are very similar in the sense that each proceeds forth from the Father. The Son bears the very essence of the Father while the Word is the inner expression of a person. "Out of the heart, the mouth speaks." So again affirming both the Son's divinity as well as the fact that all things were created by Him, John the Apostle says that,
"In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made. In him was life, and that life was the light of men." John 1:1-4
When we compare the Islamic concept of God to the Christian concept on this point, the Christian concept is far more intellectually and emotionally appealing. The incarnation (God dwelling among men through the person of Jesus) as utterly astounding as it is, is also the most awe-inspiring and incredible idea that one could ever conceive. In fact it is Islam's denial of the incarnation that makes it so utterly unappealing. In Christian theology, God says to each individual, "I love you this much, and here is how I have proven it forever." God became a man and suffered in our place for our deliverance.
Mr. President, throughout history, the Christian Church has affirmed the following:
We believe in God, the Father Almighty,
the Creator of heaven and earth,
and in Jesus Christ, His only Son, our Lord:Who was conceived of the Holy Spirit,
born of the Virgin Mary,
suffered under Pontius Pilate,
was crucified, died, and was buried.He descended into hades.
The third day He arose again from the dead.
He ascended into heaven
and sits at the right hand of God the Father Almighty,
whence He shall come to judge the living and the dead.
According to this ancient Christian Creed, Mr. President, when you stand before the Judge of the Earth, His name will be Jesus Christ. On that day there will be no excuse for denying that He indeed has come, was crucified, buried and has risen from the dead. Of course, I’m quite sure that you do not accept this. But Mr. President, have you ever considered the fact that every one of Jesus' disciples, except possibly John, dedicated and eventually gave their very lives as martyrs while preaching the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus—the very Christian Gospel message? Mr. President, what logical answer is there as to why the disciples would give their lives for a complete lie? Unless the disciples were wholly confident of the fact that Jesus was crucified and resurrected, why would they dedicate the remainder of their lives preaching such a lie? Muslims deny the historicity of the crucifixion and resurrection, but they are unable to answer some of the basic questions that explain why the disciples—the very eyewitnesses—would have lived and died as if it were absolutely true. There are many theories among Muslim scholars as to what may have happened. But none can agree. For regarding the crucifixion, burial and resurrection of Christ, in light of the abundant historical evidence attesting such, the Muslim scholars have only conjecture to follow (Surah 4:157-8). Among the various theories offered, some Muslim Scholars teach that God tricked or deceived the disciples.
Mr. President, did Allah deceive Jesus’ followers? Does this make any sense to you? If Jesus’ disciples were preaching a lie, then would you agree that Jesus was the biggest failure of all of the prophets? For if Jesus' true message was not carried on by a single one of his disciples, if after he ascended to heaven, all his disciples were deceived, then indeed, Jesus was the greatest failure of all prophets. Yet even Islam claims that Jesus is second only to Muhammad in terms of the greatest prophets.
Mr. President, the Islamic worldview, when compared to the simple facts of history, simply does not make sense. Jesus—the historical facts surrounding His life and the life of His disciples—is the thorn in the side of Islam, not its vindicator, as we would expect if indeed Islam were only a continuation of the religion that Jesus preached. Islam is not a continuation of the true religion that was declared by the true prophets of God, but something new altogether. Mr. President, I call on you to turn away from religious innovations and to turn to the Truth.
Mr. President, I have heard much of your repeated eschatological references to the soon emergence of Imam al-Mahdi, the one who you refer to as the "last repository, the promised one, that perfect and pure human being, the one that will fill this world with justice and peace." I have also studied the Islamic traditions about al-Mahdi in great depth. As you have stated to your people, "Today, we should define our economic, cultural and political policies based on the policy of Imam Mahdi’s return." I also noticed in your letter to President Bush that you accept the idea that Jesus will also return to the earth. Those of us who are familiar with Islamic eschatology understand that Muslims believe that Jesus will return as a subordinate to the Mahdi. We have seen the Islamic traditions that have spoken of the day when Imam Mahdi, with the assistance of Jesus will unite the Muslim Ummah, attack and defeat the Jewish nation and ultimately cause the entire world to submit to Islam. We have read the opinions of your scholars that the rule of your Imam will only be established with great bloodshed. In Ayatollah Ibrahim Amini’s work on the subject of Mahdism for instance: Al-Imam Al-Mahdi: The Just Leader of Humanity, we read of those who refuse to convert to Islam and submit to the Mahdi’s leadership over the earth:
This group will indisputably be opposed to justice and will never give up their stubborn antagonism against any power. Such people will do anything against the promised Mahdi to protect their vested interests. Moreover, they will do anything within their power to demoralize and combat those who support the Imam (Mahdi). To crush the negative influence of this group there is no other solution except warfare and bloodshed.
And again, we read that:
The Mahdi will offer the religion of Islam to the Jews and Christians; if they accept it they will be spared, otherwise they will be killed.
Mr. President, thinking people around the world will certainly ask; if Islam is such a true and wonderful religion, why then is it necessary to resort to jihad, force and bloodshed to spread among mankind? If God truly wanted Islam to spread, would he not simply cause it to do so through peaceful means? Or is he unable to do so Himself? In this, do we not see the difference between God and Satan. Does God not offer His truth to mankind according to their own choice and free will? Does not God’s ultimate judgment of each person hinge on their own response to His invitation? But historically it is always oppressive and tyrannical regimes that enforce their ideologies onto the people. Can you see how your religious worldview regarding the eventual triumph of Islam does not reflect the manner in which God offers His mercy to mankind? Can you see how your worldview and expectations of the coming new world under al-Mahdi instead reflect the pattern of other various failed regimes of the past, having been exposed by the very people that they once controlled as being destructive and oppressive to the human spirit? In appealing to all of mankind, Jesus Christ once said,
"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light. (Matthew 11:28)
Again, if Islam were a true and naturally appealing religion to mankind, then why do we find such a radically different call to accept Islam from your prophet with the words:
"Warfare is ordained for you, though it is hateful unto you; but it may happen that ye hate a thing which is good for you, and it may happen that ye love a thing which is bad for you. Allah knoweth, ye know not." Surah 2:216
Mr. President, why would anyone long for the day when all of mankind will openly be subjugated to a religion that openly calls for warfare despite mankind’s natural hatred for such? Should not the true religion be something which the very collective soul of mankind bears witness to and affirms rather than something which your Quran admits is "hateful" to mankind? You seem to be a very brave man; will you search your heart and ask the Lord if indeed he has truly called on his followers to carry out that which is hateful to mankind or if the above quoted verse from your prophet finds it’s inspiration not from God but instead from another source altogether? Will you consider harnessing your bravery and choose to turn toward the truth, which is found only in the freedom that Christ offers and not in Islamic Jihad and the forceful spread of totalitarian religious ideologies? Most importantly, Mr. President, will you reconsider the direction that you are presently leading the Iranian people? Will you choose to lead the Iranian people away from Islamic Jihad and instead to the One whose burden is light—the one who calls those who are weary and burdened and promises genuine rest for their souls? Or will you choose to continue following a dark path and continue to lead the Iranian people toward that which is not only "hateful" to them but also destructive to their lives and their souls? As a humble Christian and a citizens of the Eternal Kingdom of God, I appeal to you to change the path that you are presently leading the Iranian people down and instead to choose the righteous way (John 14:6), whatever the consequences may be. I appeal to you to leave behind the road of Jihad and of Islam and to become a follower of Jesus and a genuine peacemaker. For in doing so, Jesus said that you would be called a Child of God. (Matthew 5)
With Love in Christ,
Tuesday, September 19, 2006
Roaches
I have never met anyone who likes cockroaches.
Not only do I NOT like them but they absolutely freak me out!
Whanna know what’s even freakier?
Do you?
Huh?
Do you?
C’mon... answer me...
OK
I’ll just tell you.
We’ve all been to calls where there are cockroaches crawling all over a medical scene.
Going to a scene where you’re trying to gather history from a patient and there are hundreds of little crawlers on the floors and walls...and...on the garbage strewn about...and even on patient’s themselves.
Kind of distracting.
I’ve worked codes where everyone is trying to stand strategically so that passengers don’t hitch rides up your pant legs.
We have a guy in town that lives in one of the most roach infested domiciles that I’ve ever seen. This guy is always in his birthday suit ever time we arrive too which leads us to affectionately dub him “Naked Guy”.
We respond to “Naked Guy” at least once a week with a blood glucose level that plummets into the 20’s or teen’s.
His apartment neighbors have become attuned to the sound of him moaning and thrashing about when he’s in this state.
Each time his neighbors save his life by calling.
We all know this guy and know to take the bare minimum up to the apartment so that we don’t inadvertently carry out stowaways.
It’s just unnerving to try to start an IV and have crawlers skitter across the arm you’re trying to canulate.
I hate roaches.
Wednesday, September 13, 2006
New Fonts
I’m playing around with fonts and thought I’d try this new one I downloaded.
I think It’s pretty cool.
Well, I actually downloaded five of them and am really enjoying them
They kind of look similar don’t they?
Tuesday, September 05, 2006
Flip-Flop
I'm feeling my age.
I used to be able to flip-flop from nights to days and such w/o problems.
Now, I'm tired all the time.
My hair is turning gray by the day because of it all.
I've always admired the salt and pepper look and have coveted the dashing all silver haired dudes, but man, I'm only 38. I'm too young for that yet.
Will not do the hair dye though.
I don't really respect guys who dye their hair to cover gray.
==
Kids are in school.
They love it.
Do you remember the days when you dreaded the looooong weekend because you wouldn't get to see your teacher or friends for two whole days?
Well, that's my kids now.
I mean, I like school.
I want to go back part time and continue with my never-ending quest for becoming as educated as possible, but I like my weekends.
I like sleeping on those days, really.
(See Flip-Flop reference)
==
I'm still amazed by the fact that I live in Tulsa.
I drive home on the "B.A." or Hwy 51 and think, Wow; I live in Tulsa, Oklahoma....
This is home, don't get me wrong, I feel like we belong here, it Some times just feels surreal.
Aside from wishing I could see my mom more and not getting as much Husker info that I so covet, I really don't miss Omaha so much.
I really have no idea when the next time I'll go up.
I know the family is going up next month, but I have no plans of returning anytime soon.
Christmas, maybe?
I would love to have an opportunity for some good pizza.
It all sucks down here.
Need some Don Carmelo's, Valentino's or Godfather's.
Oh,
And the BBQ.
It's "ok", nothing to write home about, but It's passable...
BUT
They do BBQ Bologna!
Seriously.
You go to a BBQ joint and they have BBQ bologna on the menu.
I ask, "What do you mean by bologna?"
They're like..."It's bologna. You like bologna don't you? If you like bologna, you'll like this."
I was aghast and said, "Bologna, you mean like the cheap lunch meat you get in the lunch meat section."
Incredulously, the reply has been, "It's SMOKED"
Oh, thaaaat makes a difference.
It's feak'n Ghetto LUNCH MEAT for crying out loud!
Holy Cow!
If I want BBQ bologna I'll by some in the store for ninety-nine cents and squirt K.C. Masterpiece on it!
And these people are serious about their BBQ bologna too.
Every one of these Okie's are nuts about it.
What the heck?
(Bug shakes his head)
Am I ranting?
Well, I must admit that as far as cuisine here they have good...um...good...can't really think of anything good to eat down here.
Taco Bell
Yeah, they have Taco Bell down here...a few any way...they are into Taco Tasteless..er Taco Bueno.
Not good either.
Back Yard Burgers is good.
Um, that's about it.
My taste buds are feeling anemic just thinking about native Tulsa food...
I need to go suck on a bottle of Frank's Hot sauce.
I used to be able to flip-flop from nights to days and such w/o problems.
Now, I'm tired all the time.
My hair is turning gray by the day because of it all.
I've always admired the salt and pepper look and have coveted the dashing all silver haired dudes, but man, I'm only 38. I'm too young for that yet.
Will not do the hair dye though.
I don't really respect guys who dye their hair to cover gray.
==
Kids are in school.
They love it.
Do you remember the days when you dreaded the looooong weekend because you wouldn't get to see your teacher or friends for two whole days?
Well, that's my kids now.
I mean, I like school.
I want to go back part time and continue with my never-ending quest for becoming as educated as possible, but I like my weekends.
I like sleeping on those days, really.
(See Flip-Flop reference)
==
I'm still amazed by the fact that I live in Tulsa.
I drive home on the "B.A." or Hwy 51 and think, Wow; I live in Tulsa, Oklahoma....
This is home, don't get me wrong, I feel like we belong here, it Some times just feels surreal.
Aside from wishing I could see my mom more and not getting as much Husker info that I so covet, I really don't miss Omaha so much.
I really have no idea when the next time I'll go up.
I know the family is going up next month, but I have no plans of returning anytime soon.
Christmas, maybe?
I would love to have an opportunity for some good pizza.
It all sucks down here.
Need some Don Carmelo's, Valentino's or Godfather's.
Oh,
And the BBQ.
It's "ok", nothing to write home about, but It's passable...
BUT
They do BBQ Bologna!
Seriously.
You go to a BBQ joint and they have BBQ bologna on the menu.
I ask, "What do you mean by bologna?"
They're like..."It's bologna. You like bologna don't you? If you like bologna, you'll like this."
I was aghast and said, "Bologna, you mean like the cheap lunch meat you get in the lunch meat section."
Incredulously, the reply has been, "It's SMOKED"
Oh, thaaaat makes a difference.
It's feak'n Ghetto LUNCH MEAT for crying out loud!
Holy Cow!
If I want BBQ bologna I'll by some in the store for ninety-nine cents and squirt K.C. Masterpiece on it!
And these people are serious about their BBQ bologna too.
Every one of these Okie's are nuts about it.
What the heck?
(Bug shakes his head)
Am I ranting?
Well, I must admit that as far as cuisine here they have good...um...good...can't really think of anything good to eat down here.
Taco Bell
Yeah, they have Taco Bell down here...a few any way...they are into Taco Tasteless..er Taco Bueno.
Not good either.
Back Yard Burgers is good.
Um, that's about it.
My taste buds are feeling anemic just thinking about native Tulsa food...
I need to go suck on a bottle of Frank's Hot sauce.
Thursday, August 24, 2006
How Angry Is Your City?
From "Men's Health" article.
Holy Cow, Sunny Floriday doesn't have that much of a "Sunny" disposition, does it?
Does your city's rank rankle you? We kind of figured it would.
(From most to least angry cities) - Top 100 angry U.S. cities.
| 1. | Orlando, FL | 26. | Denver, CO | 51. | Newark, NJ | 76. | Hartford, CT |
| 2. | St. Petersburg, FL | 27. | Philadelphia, PA | 52. | Las Vegas, NV | 77. | Minneapolis, MN |
| 3. | Detroit, MI | 28. | Baton Rouge, LA | 53. | Columbus, OH | 78. | Boise, ID |
| 4. | Baltimore, MD | 29. | Fort Worth, TX | 54. | St. Paul, MN | 79. | Anaheim, CA |
| 5. | Nashville, TN | 30. | Phoenix, AZ | 55. | Charleston, WV | 80. | Norfolk, VA |
| 6. | Wilmington, DE | 31. | Lubbock, TX | 56. | Kansas City, MO | 81. | Austin, TX |
| 7. | Miami, FL | 32. | Cleveland, OH | 57. | New York, NY | 82. | Fremont, CA |
| 8. | Memphis, TN | 33. | Greensboro, NC | 58. | Oklahoma, OK | 83. | Fresno, CA |
| 9. | Jacksonville, FL | 34. | Cincinnati, OH | 59. | Toledo, OH | 84. | Anchorage, AK |
| 10. | St. Louis, MO | 35. | Arlington, TX | 60. | San Antonio, TX | 85. | Cheyenne, WY |
| 11. | Chicago, IL | 36. | Los Angeles, CA | 61. | Riverside, CA | 86. | Rochester, NY |
| 12. | Tampa, FL | 37. | Buffalo, NY | 62. | Modesto, CA | 87. | Madison, WI |
| 13. | Jackson, MS | 38. | Grand Rapids, MI | 63. | Louisville, KY | 88. | Salt Lake City, UT |
| 14. | Albuquerque, NM | 39. | Boston, MA | 64. | Honolulu, HI | 89. | Omaha, NE |
| 15. | Charlotte, NC | 40. | Columbia, SC | 65. | Richmond, VA | 90. | Pittsburgh, PA |
| 16. | Dallas, TX | 41. | Tulsa, OK | 66. | San Francisco, CA | 91. | Colorado Springs, CO |
| 17. | Houston, TX | 42. | Aurora, CO | 67. | Bakersfield, CA | 92. | El Paso, TX |
| 18. | Tucson, AZ | 43. | Seattle, WA | 68. | Spokane, WA | 93. | Sioux Falls, SD |
| 19. | Indianapolis, IN | 44. | Sacramento, CA | 69. | Milwaukee, WI | 94. | Des Moines, IA |
| 20. | Wichita, KS | 45. | San Diego, CA | 70. | Jersey City, NJ | 95. | Burlington, VT |
| 21. | Birmingham, AL | 46. | Montgomery, AL | 71. | Lexington, KY | 96. | Portland, OR |
| 22. | Providence, RI | 47. | Raleigh, NC | 72. | Little Rock, AR | 97. | Corpus Christi, TX |
| 23. | Durham, NC | 48. | Yonkers, NY | 73. | Lincoln, NE | 98. | Fargo, ND |
| 24. | Atlanta, GA | 49. | Oakland, CA | 74. | Billings, MT | 99. | Bangor, ME |
| 25. | Washington, DC | 50. | Fort Wayne, IN | 75. | San Jose, CA | 100. | Manchester, NH |
Holy Cow, Sunny Floriday doesn't have that much of a "Sunny" disposition, does it?
Wednesday, August 23, 2006
Remember When?
You remember when you were excited about going to school?
I mean when you were sad that it was the weekend because you were going to miss your teacher and your friends?
My kids started school last week and were practicaly coming out of thier skins the days before school started. They were lamenting the weekend because it was too long until they could go back to class.
It's actually pretty exciting seeing the joy they have.
I wonder when it begins to change?
What are the predicating factors in that change?
All I know is that we need to foster that joy as long as possible.
I mean when you were sad that it was the weekend because you were going to miss your teacher and your friends?
My kids started school last week and were practicaly coming out of thier skins the days before school started. They were lamenting the weekend because it was too long until they could go back to class.
It's actually pretty exciting seeing the joy they have.
I wonder when it begins to change?
What are the predicating factors in that change?
All I know is that we need to foster that joy as long as possible.
Wednesday, August 09, 2006
Strange Place
Tulsa is a strange place.
I've been to several churches for worship and left speechless by the placid nature of worship.
Every experience I've had here (I've only been in four different denominational worship settings) the people would rather sit and listen, rather than enter in to the full presence of the Lord.
Maybe I'm being too judgemental, maybe they are worshiping fully planted in their seats.
You find a few people who are willing to break the norm and stand and lift their hands, but it's a rare few of us who do.
Saw
last night. Dude is awesome. I like his CD, but he's way better in person. Seemed very humble. His trio made it appearant that they were not there to entertain, but to glorify the Lord. Was disappointed at how people wanted to just sit there. It seemed that there were some youth groups who really wanted to let lose, but the adults were a bunch of bumps on logs.
The Kat couldn't have painted it any more plainly that he was there for Jesus' glory, but the peopel were even screaming for an encore...not appropriate people....not that kind of "concert".
-Sigh-
Wednesday, July 26, 2006
Saturday, July 22, 2006
At Least He Was Camouflaged
Last night we picked up this very interesting kat.
Dude was butt nekked, heavily, I mean, totally, absolutely covered in cement mix powder and sitting smack dab on top of a fire hydrant, gyrating and wiggling back and forth like he was trying to get somewhere in a hurry.
When asked what he was doing dude said, "It's the only action I'm going to get tonight."
When told he couldn't be sitting out in public naked, he replied, "It's hot out, man....can't a guy just get nekked when it's hot out?"
When told that he couldn't He looked defeated, held up his arms and said, "I put on camouflage."
Kat provided some other really interesting nuggets like:
"Dogs, they like to wear thems some Jordans, but if you wantto get with the ladies you gots to wear the Shaqs."
and
"H...H....H...H...H....H...to the bat cave."
and
"Feed me in my mouth....Feed med in my mouth!"
and
"9....9.999...0h...9....9...9999....big glass of ice water."
The police officers on scene were almost rolling on the ground they were laughing so hard.
I have to admit, it was all very amusing.
Dude prattled on in rapid fire fashion all the way to the hospital and in the ED too about a variety of subjects all with questionable voracity.
The hospital staff also got a pretty good kick out of it.
I'm only a Paramedic, but I would venture to guess the guy needs a little psychological assistance.
Hey, but At Least He Was Camouflaged.
Dude was butt nekked, heavily, I mean, totally, absolutely covered in cement mix powder and sitting smack dab on top of a fire hydrant, gyrating and wiggling back and forth like he was trying to get somewhere in a hurry.
When asked what he was doing dude said, "It's the only action I'm going to get tonight."
When told he couldn't be sitting out in public naked, he replied, "It's hot out, man....can't a guy just get nekked when it's hot out?"
When told that he couldn't He looked defeated, held up his arms and said, "I put on camouflage."
Kat provided some other really interesting nuggets like:
"Dogs, they like to wear thems some Jordans, but if you wantto get with the ladies you gots to wear the Shaqs."
and
"H...H....H...H...H....H...to the bat cave."
and
"Feed me in my mouth....Feed med in my mouth!"
and
"9....9.999...0h...9....9...9999....big glass of ice water."
The police officers on scene were almost rolling on the ground they were laughing so hard.
I have to admit, it was all very amusing.
Dude prattled on in rapid fire fashion all the way to the hospital and in the ED too about a variety of subjects all with questionable voracity.
The hospital staff also got a pretty good kick out of it.
I'm only a Paramedic, but I would venture to guess the guy needs a little psychological assistance.
Hey, but At Least He Was Camouflaged.
Thursday, July 20, 2006
Proud
Our church is hosting The New Wineskins Convocation.
New Wineskins is an organization made up of Presbyterian pastors and leadership who are wanting to stand for righteousness within the Biblical break of the Greater Presbyterian church.
The Greater Presbyterian Church is really turning its back on Jesus and the foundations of Christianity.
I went to the opening service of the Convocation and was absolutey floored by coming face to face with Michael Card. I learned that Micheal Card would be leading worship throughout the Convocation and would be doing some leading.
Dude is a legend! Powerful music!
I'll tell you what, I was not disappointed. Man, he is humble too. I don't think anyone told him who he is. Dude, do you have any idea who you are?! You're MICHAEL CARD!
It was quite awesome. The whole deal, I mean. I'm pretty sad that I have to work throughout The rest of it.
God is going to be doing some big things. Dont' know exactly what it will look like, but the "Church" will not be the same and the world is watching.
New Wineskins is an organization made up of Presbyterian pastors and leadership who are wanting to stand for righteousness within the Biblical break of the Greater Presbyterian church.
The Greater Presbyterian Church is really turning its back on Jesus and the foundations of Christianity.
I'm quite proud of the position our pastors have placed themselves in which leaves them vulnerable to the backlash the Greater Presbytery. Humble men of God. I'm blessed to be of thier congregants.
Michael Card
Michael CardI went to the opening service of the Convocation and was absolutey floored by coming face to face with Michael Card. I learned that Micheal Card would be leading worship throughout the Convocation and would be doing some leading.
Dude is a legend! Powerful music!
I'll tell you what, I was not disappointed. Man, he is humble too. I don't think anyone told him who he is. Dude, do you have any idea who you are?! You're MICHAEL CARD!
It was quite awesome. The whole deal, I mean. I'm pretty sad that I have to work throughout The rest of it.
God is going to be doing some big things. Dont' know exactly what it will look like, but the "Church" will not be the same and the world is watching.
Tuesday, July 18, 2006
Nights
The first full week on nights is done.
It will take some getting used to.
I had done it before, but not with four kids.
Sleeping during the day with four kids just being themselves is difficult even with ear plugs.
So, I'm tired most of the night.
Thank the Lord for QT and the slew of energy drinks they have there.
For those of you who have not exprienced the joys of aQuick Trip , pray and pettition that they come to you area. They are a convenience store based here in Oklahoma and definitely break the mold of what you expect in a convenience store. You will never go back to anywhere else.
Seriously. They rock. We had them in Omaha, little did I know they were more numerous than Starbuck's in NYC, down here.
My first partner left me for another man. :(
Here I am with my first fulltime partner.
Yes, the one who left me.
Well, she's an EMT and in Paramedic school. They guys she is partnered with now has the nickname Yoda because he is the Paramedic master.
Really, they guy would walk on water if the job required it, so I really don't blame her.
I have a new partner now who is pretty green, but is a frig'n hard worker.
Great guy. Makes the lousy shift much more easy to bare.
Call me shallow.....waiting........(You're shallow)...but I'm super stressed about missing football season working Saturday and Sunday nights and not being able to see any of the games.
I think my new partner and I will try to renegotiate soon.
It will take some getting used to.
I had done it before, but not with four kids.
Sleeping during the day with four kids just being themselves is difficult even with ear plugs.
So, I'm tired most of the night.
Thank the Lord for QT and the slew of energy drinks they have there.
For those of you who have not exprienced the joys of a
Seriously. They rock. We had them in Omaha, little did I know they were more numerous than Starbuck's in NYC, down here.
My first partner left me for another man. :(
Here I am with my first fulltime partner.Yes, the one who left me.
Well, she's an EMT and in Paramedic school. They guys she is partnered with now has the nickname Yoda because he is the Paramedic master.
Really, they guy would walk on water if the job required it, so I really don't blame her.
I have a new partner now who is pretty green, but is a frig'n hard worker.
Great guy. Makes the lousy shift much more easy to bare.
Call me shallow.....waiting........(You're shallow)...but I'm super stressed about missing football season working Saturday and Sunday nights and not being able to see any of the games.
I think my new partner and I will try to renegotiate soon.
They're Coming!!
I'm excited for this upcoming football season.
Especially the game against USC.
Dang, If my schedule stays the same I will be sleeping through EVERY football game!
Anyway...
Especially the game against USC.
Dang, If my schedule stays the same I will be sleeping through EVERY football game!
Anyway...
Wednesday, July 12, 2006
Apple Cider Vinegar
I have recently been enjoying the befefits of Apple Cider Vinegar.
Been drinking a table sppon of Apple Cider Vinegar with an equal amount of honey mixed into 8oz of H2O.
Drinking one of these delicious, nutritious, refreshing glasess before every meal.
I initialy heard that it helps reduce cholesterol. Then I heard that it's good for GERD of all things.
The more I looked into this Apple Cider Vinegar thing, the more benefits I learned that it has.
Mmmmm, tasty goodness.
It actually, has been helping my heartburn for which I'd previously been takint The Little Purple Pill for the last 8 years.
We'll see on my next check up what it does for my6 cholesterol.
The unfiltered type like Braggs tastes much better than the cheaper filtered stuff.
But, of course it's more expensive.
I have Apple Cider Vinegar pills that I take while at work. Not sure if it helps so much as the "Cocktail" that I mix, but we'll see.
Why am I writting about this?
'Cuz I haven't had too much exciting going on and had to write something.
=
=
=
Oh, Miss America Moved in across the street.
Seriously.
Just this last weekend.
-Strange-
Been drinking a table sppon of Apple Cider Vinegar with an equal amount of honey mixed into 8oz of H2O.
Drinking one of these delicious, nutritious, refreshing glasess before every meal.
I initialy heard that it helps reduce cholesterol. Then I heard that it's good for GERD of all things.
The more I looked into this Apple Cider Vinegar thing, the more benefits I learned that it has.
Mmmmm, tasty goodness.It actually, has been helping my heartburn for which I'd previously been takint The Little Purple Pill for the last 8 years.
We'll see on my next check up what it does for my6 cholesterol.
The unfiltered type like Braggs tastes much better than the cheaper filtered stuff.
But, of course it's more expensive.
I have Apple Cider Vinegar pills that I take while at work. Not sure if it helps so much as the "Cocktail" that I mix, but we'll see.
Why am I writting about this?
'Cuz I haven't had too much exciting going on and had to write something.
=
=
=
Oh, Miss America Moved in across the street.
Seriously.
Just this last weekend.
-Strange-
Tuesday, June 27, 2006
Working On The Night Shift
So, for an equitable and fair way of decding who works what shift, every six months my company has "Shift Bids".
Shift Bids are based upon seniority. Every month you work for the company you get a point.
So, I've been here for Six months and I get 6 whopping points!
That means I get the choice of the very best of the bottom of what's left.
19:30 to 07:30 Thurdays -through- Sundays.
So, six months of this.
At least I have a good partner.
Nights.
It's dark at night.
Sunday, June 18, 2006
He Did It His Way
-Father's day-
Maybe it's appropriate that I post this topic today...
Maybe not, but here goes.
Last Monday, June 12th we finally burried my father.
I think that I had written before, that my father died December 28th of 2005.
He wanted to be cremated. Which he was, but my mother really didn't want him burried in Nevada. So, she had his ashes sent to Omaha, Ne. Where they have sat, in her room....since then.
We wanted some time after the kids are our of shcool and during a time that I wouldn't have to take any vacation time (I just started a new job so I have none accrued) so Monday was the day.
My dad was a unique guy. You really couldn't peg him into any specific hole, because when you did, you'd fine he didn't fit.
So it was appropriate that he would have a unique post mortem request.
Dad wanted to be cremated...not too unusual...and burried in a Music box that played the tune "I did It My Way" by Frank Sinatra....a bit more unusual. So we did.
--
And now, the end is here
And so I face the final curtain
My friend, I'll say it clear
I'll state my case, of which I'm certain
I've lived a life that's full
I traveled each and ev'ry highway
And more, much more than this, I did it my way
Regrets, I've had a few
But then again, too few to mention
I did what I had to do and saw it through without exemption
I planned each charted course, each careful step along the byway
And more, much more than this, I did it my way
Yes, there were times, I'm sure you knew
When I bit off more than I could chew
But through it all, when there was doubt
I ate it up and spit it out
I faced it all and I stood tall and did it my way
I've loved, I've laughed and cried
I've had my fill, my share of losing
And now, as tears subside, I find it all so amusing
To think I did all that
And may I say, not in a shy way,
"Oh, no, oh, no, not me, I did it my way"
For what is a man, what has he got?
If not himself, then he has naught
To say the things he truly feels and not the words of one who kneels
The record shows I took the blows and did it my way!
[instrumental]
Yes, it was my way
--
Happy Father's day Dad.
I love you.
Maybe it's appropriate that I post this topic today...
Maybe not, but here goes.
Last Monday, June 12th we finally burried my father.
I think that I had written before, that my father died December 28th of 2005.
He wanted to be cremated. Which he was, but my mother really didn't want him burried in Nevada. So, she had his ashes sent to Omaha, Ne. Where they have sat, in her room....since then.
We wanted some time after the kids are our of shcool and during a time that I wouldn't have to take any vacation time (I just started a new job so I have none accrued) so Monday was the day.
My dad was a unique guy. You really couldn't peg him into any specific hole, because when you did, you'd fine he didn't fit.
So it was appropriate that he would have a unique post mortem request.
Dad wanted to be cremated...not too unusual...and burried in a Music box that played the tune "I did It My Way" by Frank Sinatra....a bit more unusual. So we did.
--
And now, the end is here
And so I face the final curtain
My friend, I'll say it clear
I'll state my case, of which I'm certain
I've lived a life that's full
I traveled each and ev'ry highway
And more, much more than this, I did it my way
Regrets, I've had a few
But then again, too few to mention
I did what I had to do and saw it through without exemption
I planned each charted course, each careful step along the byway
And more, much more than this, I did it my way
Yes, there were times, I'm sure you knew
When I bit off more than I could chew
But through it all, when there was doubt
I ate it up and spit it out
I faced it all and I stood tall and did it my way
I've loved, I've laughed and cried
I've had my fill, my share of losing
And now, as tears subside, I find it all so amusing
To think I did all that
And may I say, not in a shy way,
"Oh, no, oh, no, not me, I did it my way"
For what is a man, what has he got?
If not himself, then he has naught
To say the things he truly feels and not the words of one who kneels
The record shows I took the blows and did it my way!
[instrumental]
Yes, it was my way
--
Happy Father's day Dad.
I love you.
Monday, June 05, 2006
Monday, May 29, 2006
Who's Who?
Here I am with Chief. Everyone and I mean EVERYONE involved in EMS in some capacity, whether it be at EMSA, among Fire Fighters or even in many of the hospital Emergency Departments think I look like our Chief. People do double takes. I think they're all smoking crack down here in Tulsa, but...you be the judge. 
In My Uniform
Here I am in my uniform. No steth, or Radio on my shoulder like I do while on duty. What a mug, eh?
Only In Oklahoma
Saturday night
I'm getting off of work late.
It's about 1:30 AM, maybe a little later,
The streets are busy, but hey, it's Saturday night...
McDonald's drive-through line is long---"post bar munchies", maybe.
Low, and behold, just tooling down the side walk
An old guy, maybe in his late 70's early 80's...
Wearing a suit...and one of those old man hats they wear with suits...
cruising down the side walk on a riding lawn mower...
Only in Oklahoma...
I'm getting off of work late.
It's about 1:30 AM, maybe a little later,
The streets are busy, but hey, it's Saturday night...
McDonald's drive-through line is long---"post bar munchies", maybe.
Low, and behold, just tooling down the side walk
An old guy, maybe in his late 70's early 80's...
Wearing a suit...and one of those old man hats they wear with suits...
cruising down the side walk on a riding lawn mower...
Only in Oklahoma...
Tuesday, May 16, 2006
Never Satisfied
Ok,
Maybe I'm never satisfied, but I need to keep learning.
Next week, I'm taking an ACLS instructors course. Advanced Cardiac Life Support.
Would love to start teaching in the Academy or any where else, for that matter.
Also, today I got information for completing my R.N. via correspondence.
I have a ton of credits already, so It make it much quicker, but It's more in the vein of a Paramedic to R.N. It's an at your own pace kind of thing, so it won't be interrupting the family and work so much. I'm excited about it.
If I could stay full time with EMSA as a Paramedic and enjoy the benifits they have, then work as an agency Nurse 3-4 times a month...well, let's just say I would probably make more as a Nurse part time as a full time Paramedic.
Nice, eh?
Plus, I still want to get on Life Flight or any other flight medic service.
Need to evaluate the cost of the school though. Not too bad in context, but sometimes context doesn't meet budget.
Maybe I'm never satisfied, but I need to keep learning.
Next week, I'm taking an ACLS instructors course. Advanced Cardiac Life Support.
Would love to start teaching in the Academy or any where else, for that matter.
Also, today I got information for completing my R.N. via correspondence.
I have a ton of credits already, so It make it much quicker, but It's more in the vein of a Paramedic to R.N. It's an at your own pace kind of thing, so it won't be interrupting the family and work so much. I'm excited about it.
If I could stay full time with EMSA as a Paramedic and enjoy the benifits they have, then work as an agency Nurse 3-4 times a month...well, let's just say I would probably make more as a Nurse part time as a full time Paramedic.
Nice, eh?
Plus, I still want to get on Life Flight or any other flight medic service.
Need to evaluate the cost of the school though. Not too bad in context, but sometimes context doesn't meet budget.
Monday, May 08, 2006
Instability
The only thing you can expect in the world of EMS is the unexpected.
Not only does that apply to call to call, but for me, it applies to whom my daily partner is going to be.
-Clarify-
My regular partner has been hurt the past two weeks.
And
For the next couple of weeks or so (However long it takes for her to get healed)
I have been having a different partner every single day.
It's like having Sibil for a partner.
Not only does that apply to call to call, but for me, it applies to whom my daily partner is going to be.
-Clarify-
My regular partner has been hurt the past two weeks.
And
For the next couple of weeks or so (However long it takes for her to get healed)
I have been having a different partner every single day.
It's like having Sibil for a partner.
Sunday, May 07, 2006
Excuse Me Sir, Does Your Dog Bite?
-Excuse me Sir, does your dog bite?
=No, my dog doesn't bite.
+GrrrrCHOMP!
-Yeow! Hey, I thought you said your dog didn't bite!
=He doesn't, that's not my dog.
Oldie, but a goodie.
Speaking of dogs...
Just bought the family a Boston Terrier. (Named her Maggie)
Got her from a pet store in Owasso, OK that also does animal rescue.
Maggie is a pure breed, but the whole litter had mange and the breeder was going to destroy them.
The pet store took them and treated them and sold them.
She just got fixed this week and is still flakey and crusty and is shedding like there is no tomorrow. She's so pathetic she's cute.
The kids are quite excited about her. Actually, LaDeeBug is much more excited, I think.
Will post a pic of her when we get some.
OK, I better go cook some Calzones. We have some friends from Omaha staying with us and I think they expect to be fed.
=No, my dog doesn't bite.
+GrrrrCHOMP!
-Yeow! Hey, I thought you said your dog didn't bite!
=He doesn't, that's not my dog.
Oldie, but a goodie.
Speaking of dogs...
Just bought the family a Boston Terrier. (Named her Maggie)
Got her from a pet store in Owasso, OK that also does animal rescue.
Maggie is a pure breed, but the whole litter had mange and the breeder was going to destroy them.
The pet store took them and treated them and sold them.
She just got fixed this week and is still flakey and crusty and is shedding like there is no tomorrow. She's so pathetic she's cute.
The kids are quite excited about her. Actually, LaDeeBug is much more excited, I think.
Will post a pic of her when we get some.
OK, I better go cook some Calzones. We have some friends from Omaha staying with us and I think they expect to be fed.
Wednesday, April 19, 2006
Driving Along Just Minding Our Own Business.
OK, this is late because I had the in-laws in town over the weekend and couldn't get to the computer. So, let's talk about Friday.
The day started out normally enough.
We received 5 post assignments within 10 minutes...
Were dispatched to a prank call...
The first patient we made contact with was having some freaky hepatic encephalopathy action going on and was alret and oriented but very combatant and doing some crazy stuff. Had to call one of my captains in and two cops...dude ended up really, really pleasant and conversant on the way to the hospital before having another seizure on me...ah, medicine.
So, we were like crazy busy all the rest of the day.
It was Motor Vehichle Accident Central. Call after call after call.
Later in the evening...about 21:30 (9:30PM) we get sent to a post in a neighboring town. It takes a while to get there...a bit of a strech on the interstate without much lights (You've driven on stretches like that)
So...we're driving along just minding our own business.
Suddenly, my partner swerves to barley miss a guy walking down the middle of the right lane of the interstate.
I have NEVER seen my partner so angry.
She pulls over onto the shoulder and starts to unfasten her seatbelt.
I start to get this really bad feeling and I say to her,
"Don't do it, he's crazy"
She opens the door
"Don't do it, he's going to charger you"
She get's out of the door, yelling at him words I shall not repeat on this family oriented site..
I think to my self, "I'm going to get killed because of my partner." and get out my side of the road.
Sure enough (I must have the gift of prophecy) he begins running at my partner screaming and waving his arms in the air. "Greeeeaaaaugh....Roaaaaeerragh"
So, the brashness that filled her spirits a moment ago jumps aboard one of the passing cars and hitches a ride to Oklahoma City...my partner promptly jumps aross the gully and away from the fine young gentleman with long billowing hair doing his best "Wild Kingdom" impersonations to alter course to follow her, gain his attention on me and change course once again to the Paramedic who foresaw all of this coming as soon as my parter started to slow the vehicle some moments earlier..
I reach in vain for my missing flash light...(Dang, in the truck)...key my mic and tell dispatch to stand by...("Unit -19 repeat?")..."Unit-19, Stand by"... ("Unit -19 are you in need of assistance?") I crouch down like a kung foo fighter...I start planning to do a leg sweep at the precise moment my advancing new found buddy gets close enough to me...when our sojourner miscalculates the slope ratio x his velocity x traction of his footing and encounters the gravitational pull of the earth...falls...and rolls into the ditch.
My partner leaps back over and starts making her way back to the Ambulance as I watch the undeterred animal impersonator literally crawl his way back up to the side of the highway..."Raaarh....GRrrrrreeeaaaaargh....meeerreeeearh!"
Just as he reaches begins to reach the top where it begins to level my partner shouts, "Put your knee in his back..put your knee in his back so he can't get up."
Sounds like an idea.
So, I put my knee into his back and hold down his arms.
-I hear my partner tell dispatch where we are.-
The man beneath me starts shouting, "Eeeeaaaauugh! She thinks I'm cazy!"
I shout back, "You're running down a dark highway, what else is she going to think?"
He makes a completely logical retort, "Aaaagh, I'm trying to get my life back together!"
-naturally-
I start patting him down and make it just to past his back pockets...
Just then..two cops run up, just as four more Tula Police cruisers and two Tulsa County Sheriff cars pull up.
(Holy SMOKIES! It wasn't EVEN two minutes from when I first keyed dispatch)
-Very impressive-
They ask me to back off of him, which I am all to willing to oblige...still marveling at thier response time.
They pick him up and promptly escort my new found buddy to jail.
One of the police officers (and a very, very giant of a police officer at that) turns to me, pokes me in the chest and asks, "You don't wear a vest?"
I say, "I'm thinking about ordering one."
He nods approvingly and says, "Good. Do it." and walks back to his cruiser.
Even if I wasn't planning on it and I am, I would not want a big, big man like that to come back to me later and ask where it is.
So, the rest of the night was still pretty busy, but not nearly as exciting as the first ten hours.
The day started out normally enough.
We received 5 post assignments within 10 minutes...
Were dispatched to a prank call...
The first patient we made contact with was having some freaky hepatic encephalopathy action going on and was alret and oriented but very combatant and doing some crazy stuff. Had to call one of my captains in and two cops...dude ended up really, really pleasant and conversant on the way to the hospital before having another seizure on me...ah, medicine.
So, we were like crazy busy all the rest of the day.
It was Motor Vehichle Accident Central. Call after call after call.
Later in the evening...about 21:30 (9:30PM) we get sent to a post in a neighboring town. It takes a while to get there...a bit of a strech on the interstate without much lights (You've driven on stretches like that)
So...we're driving along just minding our own business.
Suddenly, my partner swerves to barley miss a guy walking down the middle of the right lane of the interstate.
I have NEVER seen my partner so angry.
She pulls over onto the shoulder and starts to unfasten her seatbelt.
I start to get this really bad feeling and I say to her,
"Don't do it, he's crazy"
She opens the door
"Don't do it, he's going to charger you"
She get's out of the door, yelling at him words I shall not repeat on this family oriented site..
I think to my self, "I'm going to get killed because of my partner." and get out my side of the road.
Sure enough (I must have the gift of prophecy) he begins running at my partner screaming and waving his arms in the air. "Greeeeaaaaugh....Roaaaaeerragh"
So, the brashness that filled her spirits a moment ago jumps aboard one of the passing cars and hitches a ride to Oklahoma City...my partner promptly jumps aross the gully and away from the fine young gentleman with long billowing hair doing his best "Wild Kingdom" impersonations to alter course to follow her, gain his attention on me and change course once again to the Paramedic who foresaw all of this coming as soon as my parter started to slow the vehicle some moments earlier..
I reach in vain for my missing flash light...(Dang, in the truck)...key my mic and tell dispatch to stand by...("Unit -19 repeat?")..."Unit-19, Stand by"... ("Unit -19 are you in need of assistance?") I crouch down like a kung foo fighter...I start planning to do a leg sweep at the precise moment my advancing new found buddy gets close enough to me...when our sojourner miscalculates the slope ratio x his velocity x traction of his footing and encounters the gravitational pull of the earth...falls...and rolls into the ditch.
My partner leaps back over and starts making her way back to the Ambulance as I watch the undeterred animal impersonator literally crawl his way back up to the side of the highway..."Raaarh....GRrrrrreeeaaaaargh....meeerreeeearh!"
Just as he reaches begins to reach the top where it begins to level my partner shouts, "Put your knee in his back..put your knee in his back so he can't get up."
Sounds like an idea.
So, I put my knee into his back and hold down his arms.
-I hear my partner tell dispatch where we are.-
The man beneath me starts shouting, "Eeeeaaaauugh! She thinks I'm cazy!"
I shout back, "You're running down a dark highway, what else is she going to think?"
He makes a completely logical retort, "Aaaagh, I'm trying to get my life back together!"
-naturally-
I start patting him down and make it just to past his back pockets...
Just then..two cops run up, just as four more Tula Police cruisers and two Tulsa County Sheriff cars pull up.
(Holy SMOKIES! It wasn't EVEN two minutes from when I first keyed dispatch)
-Very impressive-
They ask me to back off of him, which I am all to willing to oblige...still marveling at thier response time.
They pick him up and promptly escort my new found buddy to jail.
One of the police officers (and a very, very giant of a police officer at that) turns to me, pokes me in the chest and asks, "You don't wear a vest?"
I say, "I'm thinking about ordering one."
He nods approvingly and says, "Good. Do it." and walks back to his cruiser.
Even if I wasn't planning on it and I am, I would not want a big, big man like that to come back to me later and ask where it is.
So, the rest of the night was still pretty busy, but not nearly as exciting as the first ten hours.
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