Saturday, January 31, 2009
A Lovely Thing
You really need to check out this artist's rendering of her trip to the Inauguration. It is just lovely and magnificent.
Friday, January 30, 2009
What is a Party for, anyway?
So the Republicans elected a Black chairman today. Weird.
A nice surprise, especially after the hoopla about the candidate for the position who forwarded the horrible email song about President Obama. (He dropped out of the race eventually.) The guy who was runner-up had the sense to resign from his all-white country club before the election.
Even more surprising, they didn't elect the more conservative black guy, of the two who were running.
But what is even weirder to me is the way the new chairman talks about re-invigorating the party. He's going to go out and bring people in; "we want you to be with us."
Except that, according to what I know about the Republican party, there are a lot of people to whom that simply doesn't apply.
Seems to me that such an approach illustrates desperation. Wouldn't the thing to do be to figure out who you are as a party, or what makes sense as your unifying belief system, or what you stand for, or something like that? And then go see who's interested?
He appears to be approaching the marketing of the party the way too many people approach marketing the church. Let's just go cajole people to come in! It doesn't matter what's here when they get here, or that it's in shambles because we've exhausted our ideological resources. Just bring them in! (Hint: this doesn't work very well in churches.)
I don't really see this being too convincing, but who knows? I wouldn't have thought they'd elect a black guy either.
A nice surprise, especially after the hoopla about the candidate for the position who forwarded the horrible email song about President Obama. (He dropped out of the race eventually.) The guy who was runner-up had the sense to resign from his all-white country club before the election.
Even more surprising, they didn't elect the more conservative black guy, of the two who were running.
But what is even weirder to me is the way the new chairman talks about re-invigorating the party. He's going to go out and bring people in; "we want you to be with us."
Except that, according to what I know about the Republican party, there are a lot of people to whom that simply doesn't apply.
Seems to me that such an approach illustrates desperation. Wouldn't the thing to do be to figure out who you are as a party, or what makes sense as your unifying belief system, or what you stand for, or something like that? And then go see who's interested?
He appears to be approaching the marketing of the party the way too many people approach marketing the church. Let's just go cajole people to come in! It doesn't matter what's here when they get here, or that it's in shambles because we've exhausted our ideological resources. Just bring them in! (Hint: this doesn't work very well in churches.)
I don't really see this being too convincing, but who knows? I wouldn't have thought they'd elect a black guy either.
Thursday, January 29, 2009
Illinois Kicks Out Blago
It's a little weird. I grew up in Illinois, but I never voted there since I didn't turn 18 till I left the state for college. But I still feel like the whole horrible mess with the governor was happening in my home state. And now it's over.
It's not like this is the first corrupt governor the state has had. And it's probably not the last, unfortunately. But everyone I know from back home is going to be really glad that this one, especially, is gone.
It's not like this is the first corrupt governor the state has had. And it's probably not the last, unfortunately. But everyone I know from back home is going to be really glad that this one, especially, is gone.
It's Been That Kind of Week
They say preachers preach what they need to hear. This was my devotional message in this week's Friday Reminders (our weekly email newsletter):
Luke 8:22-25 – One day he got into a boat with his disciples, and he said to them, “Let us go across to the other side of the lake.” So they put out, and while they were sailing he fell asleep. A windstorm swept down on the lake, and the boat was filling with water, and they were in danger. They went to him, and woke him up, shouting, “Master, Master, we are perishing!” And he woke up and rebuked the wind and the raging waters; they ceased, and there was a calm. He said to them, “Where is your faith?” They were afraid and amazed, and said to one another, “Who then is this, that he commands even the winds and the water, and they obey him?”
I don’t know about you, but there are times in my life when I wish Jesus would show up, and rebuke all the things that have been knocking me around and throwing me off balance and making me afraid, and just bring a great calm to my life. There are times when I want to cry out to him, “Wake up and do something about this craziness that is raging around me!”
It is easy to relate to the disciples in this story. What’s interesting is examining Jesus’ reaction to their panic. The first thing he does is calm the storm. They wouldn’t have been in much of a state to listen to any teaching as long as they were so frightened, after all. But then he asks them a question. It’s a question that, like so many Jesus asks, never gets answered.
“Where is your faith?” What does it mean that Jesus asked them this question? Their fear seems pretty justifiable, under the circumstances. And couldn’t they have argued that it was their faith in him that made them think he could do something to help? It seems to me that Jesus’ overall message to the disciples was “Yes, I can and will calm this storm for you, but you need to have faith that you would be okay even if I didn’t.”
In our age, when God isn’t directly intervening to change circumstances to suit us very often, it is even more important to hold onto the second part of this message. “I am with you in the midst of the storm. I am holding things together in ways you can’t even imagine, even while it seems like things are blowing apart. You will be okay even when I don’t swoop in to make everything all better.”
Sometimes God has a different definition of “okay” than we do. But the wind never blows forever. And God will be there when it stops, just like he’s there during the storm.
Collect for the Week: Holy God, Creator of the Universe, who made the wind and the water, the earth and the sky and all life, give us strong hearts that our faith might carry us through all trials and enable us to be beacons of hope in a stormy world. Through Jesus Christ our Savior and the Holy Spirit who sustains us, Amen.
Luke 8:22-25 – One day he got into a boat with his disciples, and he said to them, “Let us go across to the other side of the lake.” So they put out, and while they were sailing he fell asleep. A windstorm swept down on the lake, and the boat was filling with water, and they were in danger. They went to him, and woke him up, shouting, “Master, Master, we are perishing!” And he woke up and rebuked the wind and the raging waters; they ceased, and there was a calm. He said to them, “Where is your faith?” They were afraid and amazed, and said to one another, “Who then is this, that he commands even the winds and the water, and they obey him?”
I don’t know about you, but there are times in my life when I wish Jesus would show up, and rebuke all the things that have been knocking me around and throwing me off balance and making me afraid, and just bring a great calm to my life. There are times when I want to cry out to him, “Wake up and do something about this craziness that is raging around me!”
It is easy to relate to the disciples in this story. What’s interesting is examining Jesus’ reaction to their panic. The first thing he does is calm the storm. They wouldn’t have been in much of a state to listen to any teaching as long as they were so frightened, after all. But then he asks them a question. It’s a question that, like so many Jesus asks, never gets answered.
“Where is your faith?” What does it mean that Jesus asked them this question? Their fear seems pretty justifiable, under the circumstances. And couldn’t they have argued that it was their faith in him that made them think he could do something to help? It seems to me that Jesus’ overall message to the disciples was “Yes, I can and will calm this storm for you, but you need to have faith that you would be okay even if I didn’t.”
In our age, when God isn’t directly intervening to change circumstances to suit us very often, it is even more important to hold onto the second part of this message. “I am with you in the midst of the storm. I am holding things together in ways you can’t even imagine, even while it seems like things are blowing apart. You will be okay even when I don’t swoop in to make everything all better.”
Sometimes God has a different definition of “okay” than we do. But the wind never blows forever. And God will be there when it stops, just like he’s there during the storm.
Collect for the Week: Holy God, Creator of the Universe, who made the wind and the water, the earth and the sky and all life, give us strong hearts that our faith might carry us through all trials and enable us to be beacons of hope in a stormy world. Through Jesus Christ our Savior and the Holy Spirit who sustains us, Amen.
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
Ten on Tuesday
1. It probably won't still be Tuesday by the time I think of ten things.
2. I've been blogging for almost 2 months now, and my average is more than one post a day, I think.
3. Today was one of those days when I seemed busy all day, but it didn't feel like I got very much done.
4. I did help some very public figures avoid embarrassment from a ridiculous mix-up, and I can't even talk about it because it's a secret. Can you see how that would lead to not feeling accomplished?
5. There ought to be grants to keep Habitat affiliates from having to foreclose on families that lost their jobs. We had a board meeting tonight, and it was super depressing. We're not foreclosing, yet. But the day may be coming.
6. I learned a fun song yesterday called "Bei Mir Bist du Schon" (only with an oomlatt on the last O).
7. When I have too much to do, the thing I am most likely to do is nothing.
8. Clergy taxes are ridiculously hard to get quickbooks to understand.
9. The marvelous grapes from Costco are officially gone, as of tonight. I ate them like a mad woman, which seemed greedy. But we were all well aware that if I'd gone more slowly, the statute of freshness would have expired and they would have gone to waste. It was lovely while it lasted, and now I miss them. But the last loose ones I ate tonight had to be closely inspected for mold on their stem holes. By tomorrow, it might have been too late. Ick.
10. I didn't have very much interesting to say this evening, but I like the idea of Ten on Tuesday, and you can't very well do it on Wednesday, so oh well. And it looks like I made the midnight deadline!
2. I've been blogging for almost 2 months now, and my average is more than one post a day, I think.
3. Today was one of those days when I seemed busy all day, but it didn't feel like I got very much done.
4. I did help some very public figures avoid embarrassment from a ridiculous mix-up, and I can't even talk about it because it's a secret. Can you see how that would lead to not feeling accomplished?
5. There ought to be grants to keep Habitat affiliates from having to foreclose on families that lost their jobs. We had a board meeting tonight, and it was super depressing. We're not foreclosing, yet. But the day may be coming.
6. I learned a fun song yesterday called "Bei Mir Bist du Schon" (only with an oomlatt on the last O).
7. When I have too much to do, the thing I am most likely to do is nothing.
8. Clergy taxes are ridiculously hard to get quickbooks to understand.
9. The marvelous grapes from Costco are officially gone, as of tonight. I ate them like a mad woman, which seemed greedy. But we were all well aware that if I'd gone more slowly, the statute of freshness would have expired and they would have gone to waste. It was lovely while it lasted, and now I miss them. But the last loose ones I ate tonight had to be closely inspected for mold on their stem holes. By tomorrow, it might have been too late. Ick.
10. I didn't have very much interesting to say this evening, but I like the idea of Ten on Tuesday, and you can't very well do it on Wednesday, so oh well. And it looks like I made the midnight deadline!
Monday, January 26, 2009
Another Weird Thing
You have to respect Norman Lear. He's done some really great things for this country. But this is not one of his best efforts. Too bad, because it's beautiful and clearly cost a good chunk of change.
It's a music video, starring "ordinary Americans" from around the country, of various hues and traditions. I can even understand the metaphor of being a "born-again American" once I take into account their pledge that basically calls people into more active citizenship.
But to include the line "My Bible and the Bill of Rights" seems to unnecessarily cross the tricky lines of civic religion. What's especially weird is that the singers include a Muslim man and a Jewish woman. Because of that line being included, by the end of the song, it just ends up feeling like a messy conflation of faith and patriotism, which it didn't have to be.
What's especially tricky is that in a note in his bio, the song writer, Keith Carradine refers to the line as "my bible is the Bill of Rights" which means something completely different. But the singers are clearly saying "and" not "is", and the words accompanying the video also say "and". Amazing what a difference one tiny little word can make.
It's a music video, starring "ordinary Americans" from around the country, of various hues and traditions. I can even understand the metaphor of being a "born-again American" once I take into account their pledge that basically calls people into more active citizenship.
But to include the line "My Bible and the Bill of Rights" seems to unnecessarily cross the tricky lines of civic religion. What's especially weird is that the singers include a Muslim man and a Jewish woman. Because of that line being included, by the end of the song, it just ends up feeling like a messy conflation of faith and patriotism, which it didn't have to be.
What's especially tricky is that in a note in his bio, the song writer, Keith Carradine refers to the line as "my bible is the Bill of Rights" which means something completely different. But the singers are clearly saying "and" not "is", and the words accompanying the video also say "and". Amazing what a difference one tiny little word can make.
Really Complicated Question
This op-ed in the NYT suggests a really complicated question: should there be a new medal created specifically for people stricken with post-traumatic stress disorder? The column was written in response to a Pentagon decision not to award Purple Hearts to sufferers of PTSD.
I'm not anywhere close to knowing what I think makes sense on a question like this. It seems impossible to me that a medal for contracting a mental disorder could be seen as an honor -- the guy suggests they be called "Black Hearts" which has other problems all its own.
But the neglect and mistreatment of PTSD-affects folks by the military is appalling, especially the ones who are being alledgedly mis-diagnosed as NOT having PTSD so that they can't qualify for treatment. Something needs to be done. I'm just not sure a prize is what is needed.
Perhaps this debate can open up some broader questions about how we valorize veterans and why. What is it that is being rewarded? Sacrifice, or killing? Because some are suggesting that it's the killing (more specifically than the circumstances) that is causing the PTSD.
Meanwhile, as we debate what makes sense and what can shift the stigma of mental illnes, people's lives are exploding. Bottom line, I'm for let's all try to get along without violence.
I'm not anywhere close to knowing what I think makes sense on a question like this. It seems impossible to me that a medal for contracting a mental disorder could be seen as an honor -- the guy suggests they be called "Black Hearts" which has other problems all its own.
But the neglect and mistreatment of PTSD-affects folks by the military is appalling, especially the ones who are being alledgedly mis-diagnosed as NOT having PTSD so that they can't qualify for treatment. Something needs to be done. I'm just not sure a prize is what is needed.
Perhaps this debate can open up some broader questions about how we valorize veterans and why. What is it that is being rewarded? Sacrifice, or killing? Because some are suggesting that it's the killing (more specifically than the circumstances) that is causing the PTSD.
Meanwhile, as we debate what makes sense and what can shift the stigma of mental illnes, people's lives are exploding. Bottom line, I'm for let's all try to get along without violence.
Five Minutes to Midnight
Thomas Friedman says he's heard it before, but this time he really believes it.
His NYT column sets forth succinctly some of the challenges in creating a peace in the Middle East. Actually, he's more concerned with the challenges just in getting to a place where negotiations can begin.
What he says seems to make sense to me on first glance. Although, I don't tend to believe in "five minutes to midnight" characterizations. Life goes on. It may be ugly, but life goes on. It makes sense as a measurement of likelihood of world-wide nuclear devastation, but for anything else, it's hyperbole. There are always second chances, if we're creative enough.
His NYT column sets forth succinctly some of the challenges in creating a peace in the Middle East. Actually, he's more concerned with the challenges just in getting to a place where negotiations can begin.
What he says seems to make sense to me on first glance. Although, I don't tend to believe in "five minutes to midnight" characterizations. Life goes on. It may be ugly, but life goes on. It makes sense as a measurement of likelihood of world-wide nuclear devastation, but for anything else, it's hyperbole. There are always second chances, if we're creative enough.
Sunday, January 25, 2009
Pet Poetry Contest!
Because it's Sunday, and I'm not feeling clever, I thought I would invite you to be clever instead.
Let's have a poetry contest.
The Rules:
1. The poem must be about a pet. It can be your pet, or someone else's, or an imaginary pet.
2. The poem must be either a limerick or a haiku. Because I have a very short attention span. (Hint: I love rhymes, so limericks are a better way to win!)
3. There is no prize. (I didn't say it was a good contest, now did I?)
Here is my entry:
I live with a cat with no name,
'Cause the one that he'd had was too lame.
He is yellow and fat,
but what's wrong with that?
But he bites, so you can't call him tame!
(As you can see, the standards aren't too high, so go ahead, release your inner English-major in the comments!)
Let's have a poetry contest.
The Rules:
1. The poem must be about a pet. It can be your pet, or someone else's, or an imaginary pet.
2. The poem must be either a limerick or a haiku. Because I have a very short attention span. (Hint: I love rhymes, so limericks are a better way to win!)
3. There is no prize. (I didn't say it was a good contest, now did I?)
Here is my entry:
I live with a cat with no name,
'Cause the one that he'd had was too lame.
He is yellow and fat,
but what's wrong with that?
But he bites, so you can't call him tame!
(As you can see, the standards aren't too high, so go ahead, release your inner English-major in the comments!)
A Spiritual Discipline
Ha! Did that catch your attention? My guess is that you're not going to be impressed.
See, I have this theory -- another reason why I need a neurologist on retainer -- that some people are just born "easy-going" and some people aren't. It appears to me that there are people who really don't care if they don't get things their way, or maybe they just don't have a way they prefer. I don't know what it is, because I'm not one of them.
Those of you who know me well know that I'm telling the truth. My theory is, if you have a preference, why wouldn't you prefer to have than to not have it? If you believe something, why wouldn't you think your opinion is right? You wouldn't have an opinion you thought was wrong, now would you?
When I was in college, I took a year off and traveled with the church. We went to the Philippines, Canada and Germany. (Shout out to Oikons!) One of the biggest growing experiences for me on that trip was experiencing people doing things differently -- and having it be just fine. It was very weird for me. But I did notice that it was real. It can be okay to do things differently.
But really, I'm not very good at it. So, one of my new spiritual disciplines happens at work. Every time I use the rest room. Because, as it happens, my secretary is WRONG about the right way to hang the toilet paper on the lovely new toilet paper holder I bought because I was tired of the one that kept falling off the wall. I'm not even sure I should have to mention which way is the right way and which way is the wrong way. Because I'm sure all of my readers know.
But here's the thing. So far, I have managed to keep myself from switching it. I've only ever done it once or twice, maybe. I'm not sure I ever have, but I might be blocking it out.
What's crazy is how hard it is for me to resist. Which is why it has become a spiritual discipline. Breath in -- "Not everything has to be perfect". Breath out -- "You don't really define perfect yourself anyway, honey!" That kind of thing.
So pray for me, my friends. Life is very difficult for those of us who are right all the time! Why couldn't I have gotten those "easy-going" genes?
See, I have this theory -- another reason why I need a neurologist on retainer -- that some people are just born "easy-going" and some people aren't. It appears to me that there are people who really don't care if they don't get things their way, or maybe they just don't have a way they prefer. I don't know what it is, because I'm not one of them.
Those of you who know me well know that I'm telling the truth. My theory is, if you have a preference, why wouldn't you prefer to have than to not have it? If you believe something, why wouldn't you think your opinion is right? You wouldn't have an opinion you thought was wrong, now would you?
When I was in college, I took a year off and traveled with the church. We went to the Philippines, Canada and Germany. (Shout out to Oikons!) One of the biggest growing experiences for me on that trip was experiencing people doing things differently -- and having it be just fine. It was very weird for me. But I did notice that it was real. It can be okay to do things differently.
But really, I'm not very good at it. So, one of my new spiritual disciplines happens at work. Every time I use the rest room. Because, as it happens, my secretary is WRONG about the right way to hang the toilet paper on the lovely new toilet paper holder I bought because I was tired of the one that kept falling off the wall. I'm not even sure I should have to mention which way is the right way and which way is the wrong way. Because I'm sure all of my readers know.
But here's the thing. So far, I have managed to keep myself from switching it. I've only ever done it once or twice, maybe. I'm not sure I ever have, but I might be blocking it out.
What's crazy is how hard it is for me to resist. Which is why it has become a spiritual discipline. Breath in -- "Not everything has to be perfect". Breath out -- "You don't really define perfect yourself anyway, honey!" That kind of thing.
So pray for me, my friends. Life is very difficult for those of us who are right all the time! Why couldn't I have gotten those "easy-going" genes?
Friday, January 23, 2009
One in 80,000
According to this article at Disciples World dot com, there are about 80,000 ordained women in ministry in this country. That doesn't seem like all that many to me. I guess because I know so many of them, it feels there are lots of us.
The article is actually about the United Methodist Church making a concerted effort to "break the stained glass ceiling" by examining why there aren't more women as lead pastors of large churches. Good on them. I'm guessing that's going to take a while to get here to the Heart of Dixie, given what I've heard about the local conference.
It's a strange thing to be such an exotic minority. I grew up with women in ministry around me, such that it didn't occur to me that was strange. When I moved here to the HoD, after my first public appearance, numerous women came up to speak with me, all excited from what appeared to be their first experience of seeing an ordained woman do something from a pulpit. It was weird to be so exciting to people.
But I'm glad I'm here. It hasn't been as hard as you might imagine. And when I stop and reflect on the fact that my mere presence is creating a different world for the young girls in my congregation (and possibly others), it makes me feel pretty cool. Maybe 1 in 80,000 isn't so bad.
The article is actually about the United Methodist Church making a concerted effort to "break the stained glass ceiling" by examining why there aren't more women as lead pastors of large churches. Good on them. I'm guessing that's going to take a while to get here to the Heart of Dixie, given what I've heard about the local conference.
It's a strange thing to be such an exotic minority. I grew up with women in ministry around me, such that it didn't occur to me that was strange. When I moved here to the HoD, after my first public appearance, numerous women came up to speak with me, all excited from what appeared to be their first experience of seeing an ordained woman do something from a pulpit. It was weird to be so exciting to people.
But I'm glad I'm here. It hasn't been as hard as you might imagine. And when I stop and reflect on the fact that my mere presence is creating a different world for the young girls in my congregation (and possibly others), it makes me feel pretty cool. Maybe 1 in 80,000 isn't so bad.
Cabin Fever Friday Five
Over at the Rev Gal Blog Pals, the Friday Five is asking for suggestions on how to make it till spring without going crazy. Living in the Heart of Dixie, where it was almost 70 degrees today, I'm not sure I can relate, so I will have to harken back to my Minnesota days and see what I can come up with.
1. Anything involving wrapping up in a blanket makes me feel better when it's cold. It could be a book, a magazine, or a movie, but if a blanket is involved, you will know everything will be okay one day.
2. If you can get a cat to sit on you, you have motivation not to move for a long time, assuming it's not a restless cat who doesn't sit still for very long.
3. I haven't been doing it lately, but knitting is clearly a major occupation for many people trapped indoors. Other forms of creation are also good. Clear off the table, cover it with newsprint and get out the pastels. They make large swaths of bright color quickly. A very efficient and satisfying medium in which it's practically impossible to make a mistake. I've also been hearing about people painting pottery lately.
4. Have a beach party. Just for a night, turn the heat way up, or get a great and powerful space heater and warm up one room enough to wear skimpy beach clothes, drink tropical drinks, and dance to the Beach Boys.
5. Resist the urge to be cheered up and instead come at it from the other direction. Channel your inner, bitter English major and write really bad, melodramatic poetry about how the barren terrain matches the gray coldness of your heart. Then read them out loud with all the pathos of a nineteen-year-old. I dare you not to laugh.
1. Anything involving wrapping up in a blanket makes me feel better when it's cold. It could be a book, a magazine, or a movie, but if a blanket is involved, you will know everything will be okay one day.
2. If you can get a cat to sit on you, you have motivation not to move for a long time, assuming it's not a restless cat who doesn't sit still for very long.
3. I haven't been doing it lately, but knitting is clearly a major occupation for many people trapped indoors. Other forms of creation are also good. Clear off the table, cover it with newsprint and get out the pastels. They make large swaths of bright color quickly. A very efficient and satisfying medium in which it's practically impossible to make a mistake. I've also been hearing about people painting pottery lately.
4. Have a beach party. Just for a night, turn the heat way up, or get a great and powerful space heater and warm up one room enough to wear skimpy beach clothes, drink tropical drinks, and dance to the Beach Boys.
5. Resist the urge to be cheered up and instead come at it from the other direction. Channel your inner, bitter English major and write really bad, melodramatic poetry about how the barren terrain matches the gray coldness of your heart. Then read them out loud with all the pathos of a nineteen-year-old. I dare you not to laugh.
An Incredible Drawing of the Meta-Physics of the Inauguration
The cover illustration of this week's Nation magazine is touching, fraught with history and great fun all at once. In it, John Mavroudis shows the many saints of the Civil Rights movement (very broadly defined) gathered 'round while Obama takes the Oath of Office from Justice Thurgood Marshall. (I bet he knew the words!)
It's a little annoying to figure out who everyone is online, as you have to scroll up and down repeatedly. But why not try to see how many you recognize first, and then look them up? I got my paper copy in the mail today; it's a keeper. I'm hoping they will be making this one into poster form as they have previous covers.
(I'm not sure that link will stay good after a week or so, so let me know if it's not working.)
It's a little annoying to figure out who everyone is online, as you have to scroll up and down repeatedly. But why not try to see how many you recognize first, and then look them up? I got my paper copy in the mail today; it's a keeper. I'm hoping they will be making this one into poster form as they have previous covers.
(I'm not sure that link will stay good after a week or so, so let me know if it's not working.)
A Preacher's Opinion
One could go on and on about the Inauguration this week. Well, some ones could, and have. But I can't. There has just been too much going on in my mind and heart this week. But because it's easier to quibble, I will say this:
Anyone who performs weddings knows that you always have the words in front of you when you're prompting someone to say a vow. That is the whole point, in fact, I think. The president-elect could just memorize the vow himself and say it. But instead, we have a judge say it to him, line by line, prompting. And the whole point of prompting is that you have a copy, so that the person you're prompting doesn't have to memorize or read. You read. So you have the words in front of you.
Likewise, you never, never give someone more than 4 or 5 words (not counting the little ones like "a" or "in" etc.) to say at a time. So, for instance, you should stop after "I, Barack Hussein Obama," before going on.
I'm just saying... Clearly wherever Justice Roberts was a judge before this gig, he didn't perform very many weddings.
Anyone who performs weddings knows that you always have the words in front of you when you're prompting someone to say a vow. That is the whole point, in fact, I think. The president-elect could just memorize the vow himself and say it. But instead, we have a judge say it to him, line by line, prompting. And the whole point of prompting is that you have a copy, so that the person you're prompting doesn't have to memorize or read. You read. So you have the words in front of you.
Likewise, you never, never give someone more than 4 or 5 words (not counting the little ones like "a" or "in" etc.) to say at a time. So, for instance, you should stop after "I, Barack Hussein Obama," before going on.
I'm just saying... Clearly wherever Justice Roberts was a judge before this gig, he didn't perform very many weddings.
A Movement You Should Join
First, you need to watch (or re-watch) this clip from the closing of Sunday's concert at the Lincoln Memorial of Pete Seeger leading the nation in five verses of "This Land Is Your Land".
Then you need to revel for a moment in the incredible beauty that is Pete Seeger singing, by invitation, at the beginning moments of a new administration, in and to the seat of power.
Then you need to go to this website and sign the petition to the American Friends Service Committee asking them to make Pete Seeger their nominee for this year's Nobel Peace Prize. Can you think of anyone more deserving?
And if you'd like to read more first, check out Peter Rothberg's blog at The Nation magazine website.
This is your opportunity to help ensure that the world recognizes its saints before they're dead. Pete Seeger will be 90 years old this May.
Then you need to revel for a moment in the incredible beauty that is Pete Seeger singing, by invitation, at the beginning moments of a new administration, in and to the seat of power.
Then you need to go to this website and sign the petition to the American Friends Service Committee asking them to make Pete Seeger their nominee for this year's Nobel Peace Prize. Can you think of anyone more deserving?
And if you'd like to read more first, check out Peter Rothberg's blog at The Nation magazine website.
This is your opportunity to help ensure that the world recognizes its saints before they're dead. Pete Seeger will be 90 years old this May.
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Ten on Tuesday -- "Can You Feel a Brand New Day?" Edition
This is my first "Ten on Tuesday," which I've been told by other bloggers is just a list of ten random things that you post on a Tuesday. My, how humans love alliteration!
1. I was slightly confused for a moment when my alarm went off this morning, but then before my brain formed the word "Tuesday", my heart said "It's Inauguration Day!"
2. The song in my head this morning is "Can You Feel a Brand New Day?" from "The Wiz". Seems appropriate. Or at least, much more appropriate than some of the things that could be in my head!
3. I'm going to go watch the show at the City Meeting Center with my fellow citizens.
4. I'm also going to take two small, beautifully chiming bells I got from my grandpa, because I heard that churches are ringing bells right after the swearing in. I don't have an outside church bell, but I've rung these inside church before.
5. I am supposed to be singing at two events in 3 and 4 weeks, and I'm really behind at practicing for either one.
6. I am really glad the sun is shining this morning, even though the temp is 28 degrees.
7. I wish there were a degree sign on the shift level of the numbers on a normal keyboard. Do we really need that caret thing on top of the six key?
8. About 40% of the time I hear fire trucks from my house, I wonder if the church is on fire. This consumes too much of my time since the house, the church and the fire station are within 4 blocks of each other.
9. I love Cheerios. And I'm going to go eat some very soon, with my dairy milk.
10. I just figured out yesterday that the January 21st on which I have to be at Committee on Ministry all day is the same January 21st on which Sharon Watkins is going to be preaching the National Prayer Service. That kind of stinks. But I can watch it later. Or maybe appointment number one will cancel... (just kidding!)
1. I was slightly confused for a moment when my alarm went off this morning, but then before my brain formed the word "Tuesday", my heart said "It's Inauguration Day!"
2. The song in my head this morning is "Can You Feel a Brand New Day?" from "The Wiz". Seems appropriate. Or at least, much more appropriate than some of the things that could be in my head!
3. I'm going to go watch the show at the City Meeting Center with my fellow citizens.
4. I'm also going to take two small, beautifully chiming bells I got from my grandpa, because I heard that churches are ringing bells right after the swearing in. I don't have an outside church bell, but I've rung these inside church before.
5. I am supposed to be singing at two events in 3 and 4 weeks, and I'm really behind at practicing for either one.
6. I am really glad the sun is shining this morning, even though the temp is 28 degrees.
7. I wish there were a degree sign on the shift level of the numbers on a normal keyboard. Do we really need that caret thing on top of the six key?
8. About 40% of the time I hear fire trucks from my house, I wonder if the church is on fire. This consumes too much of my time since the house, the church and the fire station are within 4 blocks of each other.
9. I love Cheerios. And I'm going to go eat some very soon, with my dairy milk.
10. I just figured out yesterday that the January 21st on which I have to be at Committee on Ministry all day is the same January 21st on which Sharon Watkins is going to be preaching the National Prayer Service. That kind of stinks. But I can watch it later. Or maybe appointment number one will cancel... (just kidding!)
Monday, January 19, 2009
When I Play the "If I Were Filthy Rich" Game
I sometimes imagine whom I would keep on staff. Some in-house, some just on retainer like some folks have a lawyer.
See one of the best things about being filthy rich would be the amusement of being eccentric.
So, of course, your staff would include a masseuse and a cook and people to clean and maybe someone to force you to exercise. But that's a little boring, isn't it?
What I would like to have is a neurologist on tap. Because I'm always wondering things about my brain.
Like this afternoon, when I was feeding the cat, and talking to him about his rather disgusting food that he loves so much. And I started saying, "Salmon, salmon." Why was it that it turned into "Salmon, salmon, salmon in the morning, salmon in the evening. Salmon, salmon, salmon till the sun goes down"? Why does the cat food bring up a completely random church camp song?
And why, the other day, did the jingle for Chevy suddenly arrive in my head? The one from a million years ago when I used to watch tv a lot? "The heartbeat of America -- that's today's Chevrolet!" I don't like Chevrolets or the tune, so why is it still embedded so clearly in my mind?
Why can't I instead remember all the words to the long and wordy Sprite commercial that I got rather attached to? Bonus points to whoever can finish this in the comments: "I like the way you make me laugh. I like the funny things you do. You've got a style that's all your own. I like the Sprite in you. You know you make me want to smile (?). Something you make me sparkle too. You're something something to be around. I like the Sprite in you."
These things, these jingles, these songs, these quotes (see earlier post), where are they stored, and why? And what makes them shift to the top of the pile?
If I were filthy rich, I would have a neurologist on retainer who would come over for dinner (made by the cook) and explain these things to me. Or at least tell me even more interesting stories about related weird things the brain does.
Who would be on your staff?
See one of the best things about being filthy rich would be the amusement of being eccentric.
So, of course, your staff would include a masseuse and a cook and people to clean and maybe someone to force you to exercise. But that's a little boring, isn't it?
What I would like to have is a neurologist on tap. Because I'm always wondering things about my brain.
Like this afternoon, when I was feeding the cat, and talking to him about his rather disgusting food that he loves so much. And I started saying, "Salmon, salmon." Why was it that it turned into "Salmon, salmon, salmon in the morning, salmon in the evening. Salmon, salmon, salmon till the sun goes down"? Why does the cat food bring up a completely random church camp song?
And why, the other day, did the jingle for Chevy suddenly arrive in my head? The one from a million years ago when I used to watch tv a lot? "The heartbeat of America -- that's today's Chevrolet!" I don't like Chevrolets or the tune, so why is it still embedded so clearly in my mind?
Why can't I instead remember all the words to the long and wordy Sprite commercial that I got rather attached to? Bonus points to whoever can finish this in the comments: "I like the way you make me laugh. I like the funny things you do. You've got a style that's all your own. I like the Sprite in you. You know you make me want to smile (?). Something you make me sparkle too. You're something something to be around. I like the Sprite in you."
These things, these jingles, these songs, these quotes (see earlier post), where are they stored, and why? And what makes them shift to the top of the pile?
If I were filthy rich, I would have a neurologist on retainer who would come over for dinner (made by the cook) and explain these things to me. Or at least tell me even more interesting stories about related weird things the brain does.
Who would be on your staff?
Another Reason I Hate Racism
On a day like today, the day before we swear in our first Black president, I would like to be able to catch the eye of African-Americans I meet and smile a special smile, because we both know why we're especially happy.
But as I drive and walk around my little Southern city today, I know that the Black folks I meet may be feeling that special happiness, but also that the ones who don't know me have no reason to assume that I am feeling it too. Even though I am.
But it would be silly of them to make that assumption, given the pallor of my skin and my location here in the Heart of Dixie. So I assume they do not assume it. And it makes me sad. And so I smile at them anyway, and hope that maybe they will at least wonder.
What is perhaps even sadder is that I only assume that the Black folks around me are also sharing this special happiness. I'm making the same assumption about the other white folks as the Black folks presumably are. Sigh. I knew I hated racism.
But as I drive and walk around my little Southern city today, I know that the Black folks I meet may be feeling that special happiness, but also that the ones who don't know me have no reason to assume that I am feeling it too. Even though I am.
But it would be silly of them to make that assumption, given the pallor of my skin and my location here in the Heart of Dixie. So I assume they do not assume it. And it makes me sad. And so I smile at them anyway, and hope that maybe they will at least wonder.
What is perhaps even sadder is that I only assume that the Black folks around me are also sharing this special happiness. I'm making the same assumption about the other white folks as the Black folks presumably are. Sigh. I knew I hated racism.
The Big Days
There seems to be a bizarre pattern emerging in my life. Whenever the nation is having a Big Day, I am having one too, for totally unrelated reasons.
As you know, the U.S. of A. is about to inaugurate our first African-American President. It is beyond exciting. But half an hour ago, it occurred to me that my body is quite possibly going to want to sleep through it, because by then, I will be so sleep-deprived from prepping my sweetie for the Big Day he's having on Tuesday and hosting a 10-hour documentary marathon on Monday in celebration of MLK Day, that I might not wake up in time.
Except that I will, because this is more important than sleep.
September 11th, 2001, was the day I arrived in my new hometown. I heard about what had happened over a walkie-talkie from my sister who was driving my car, while I drove a moving truck. I didn't believe her at first. But gradually, it became clear, even to those of us on the road, what had happened.
But the weird thing about that is that I didn't have TV when I moved here. So I didn't see the video footage of the attacks that day. Or that week. Or for a really long time, in fact. I think I have seen it now, though I can't remember where or why. Obviously, it was anti-climatic. I had seen photographs, and from hearing other people talk about it, you imagine the pictures moving. This was another instance of national Big Days and personal Big Days coinciding in strange ways. But quite frankly, I was sort of glad not to have seen the footage over and over like most people did.
However, I am not interested in a similar approach to this week's Big Day (either one of them! - Go, Sharon!). I still don't have TV, but I'm sure I can find a way to be in touch this time. Fear I don't mind missing, but the re-birth of hope, that's another story.
But those of you out there who know what I'm talking about, while you're saying your prayers of thanks and hope, throw in another one for us. Our Big Day is Tuesday too, and we really need this to happen.
As you know, the U.S. of A. is about to inaugurate our first African-American President. It is beyond exciting. But half an hour ago, it occurred to me that my body is quite possibly going to want to sleep through it, because by then, I will be so sleep-deprived from prepping my sweetie for the Big Day he's having on Tuesday and hosting a 10-hour documentary marathon on Monday in celebration of MLK Day, that I might not wake up in time.
Except that I will, because this is more important than sleep.
September 11th, 2001, was the day I arrived in my new hometown. I heard about what had happened over a walkie-talkie from my sister who was driving my car, while I drove a moving truck. I didn't believe her at first. But gradually, it became clear, even to those of us on the road, what had happened.
But the weird thing about that is that I didn't have TV when I moved here. So I didn't see the video footage of the attacks that day. Or that week. Or for a really long time, in fact. I think I have seen it now, though I can't remember where or why. Obviously, it was anti-climatic. I had seen photographs, and from hearing other people talk about it, you imagine the pictures moving. This was another instance of national Big Days and personal Big Days coinciding in strange ways. But quite frankly, I was sort of glad not to have seen the footage over and over like most people did.
However, I am not interested in a similar approach to this week's Big Day (either one of them! - Go, Sharon!). I still don't have TV, but I'm sure I can find a way to be in touch this time. Fear I don't mind missing, but the re-birth of hope, that's another story.
But those of you out there who know what I'm talking about, while you're saying your prayers of thanks and hope, throw in another one for us. Our Big Day is Tuesday too, and we really need this to happen.
Who Doesn't Love Miracle Max?
In case you don't, and therefore don't even know who I'm talking about, Miracle Max is Billy Crystal's character in "The Princess Bride." He is the one who makes the chocolate-coated Miracle Pill that brings the Man in Black back to life after he's been mostly dead all day.
But that is not my point about Miracle Max. One of his most hilarious throw-away lines is about how much he loves a "good MLT" sandwich, that is, mutton, lettuce and tomato. He goes on and on (while Inigo and Fezzik are in a huge hurry) about how the mutton needs to be nice and lean, and so on.
Nevermind that most likely it's anachronistic for anyone to be eating tomatoes back then. (Didn't they think they were poisonous? When was the "then" of "Princess Bride" anyway? And if he's a miracle man, maybe he was ahead of the times...)
But my question is, what sandwich every so often causes you to lose your train of thought, just by coming to mind? What sandwich do you love so much you might be tempted to compare it to True Love?
Today it occurred to me that mine might possibly be a toasted peanut butter and honey sandwich. I hadn't had one for ages, but another blogger's post reminded me of peanut butter on toast, which is clearly so much better with honey, so I made one. I can't believe I waited that long! They are SO yummy!
So what is your MLT?
But that is not my point about Miracle Max. One of his most hilarious throw-away lines is about how much he loves a "good MLT" sandwich, that is, mutton, lettuce and tomato. He goes on and on (while Inigo and Fezzik are in a huge hurry) about how the mutton needs to be nice and lean, and so on.
Nevermind that most likely it's anachronistic for anyone to be eating tomatoes back then. (Didn't they think they were poisonous? When was the "then" of "Princess Bride" anyway? And if he's a miracle man, maybe he was ahead of the times...)
But my question is, what sandwich every so often causes you to lose your train of thought, just by coming to mind? What sandwich do you love so much you might be tempted to compare it to True Love?
Today it occurred to me that mine might possibly be a toasted peanut butter and honey sandwich. I hadn't had one for ages, but another blogger's post reminded me of peanut butter on toast, which is clearly so much better with honey, so I made one. I can't believe I waited that long! They are SO yummy!
So what is your MLT?
Friday, January 16, 2009
Certain Phrases
So I was in the car today, and upon arriving at my home, I said to myself, "Here we are..."
Which, unfortunately, immediately launched my brain into the beginning of the theme song for "Silver Spoons," which wasn't even good tv. "Face to face, a couple of silver spoons. Hoping to find, we're two of a kind, making a something-something, together, we're gonna something-something..." Fortunately, it doesn't usually last long enough to get into the part where I forget the words.
There are just certain phrases that act like triggers. Here are some of mine. Maybe you can share yours in the comments.
"Thanks for doing that" turns into "Thank you for doing that, Ellen" from the movie Dave. My husband and I use this one all the time, especially when one person has done something the other really didn't want to do.
"It's possible" is followed up by "you miserable, vomitous mass, that I'm only lying here because I lack the strength to stand" from Princess Bride. This is especially unfortunate if something becomes possible at a church meeting.
If someone says something that reassures me, as my brain is deciding what to say, it frequently bypasses "That's great!" and chooses instead, "I'm so glad to hear you say it" which is a bit formal, which makes sense only if you understand that I am channeling Princess Anne from Roman Holiday.
Again from Dave, if someone says "I don't know," I am tempted to respond, "You don't know, or you Can't Say?"
Okay, I thought I had more than that, but no more are coming to mind. So what are yours?
Which, unfortunately, immediately launched my brain into the beginning of the theme song for "Silver Spoons," which wasn't even good tv. "Face to face, a couple of silver spoons. Hoping to find, we're two of a kind, making a something-something, together, we're gonna something-something..." Fortunately, it doesn't usually last long enough to get into the part where I forget the words.
There are just certain phrases that act like triggers. Here are some of mine. Maybe you can share yours in the comments.
"Thanks for doing that" turns into "Thank you for doing that, Ellen" from the movie Dave. My husband and I use this one all the time, especially when one person has done something the other really didn't want to do.
"It's possible" is followed up by "you miserable, vomitous mass, that I'm only lying here because I lack the strength to stand" from Princess Bride. This is especially unfortunate if something becomes possible at a church meeting.
If someone says something that reassures me, as my brain is deciding what to say, it frequently bypasses "That's great!" and chooses instead, "I'm so glad to hear you say it" which is a bit formal, which makes sense only if you understand that I am channeling Princess Anne from Roman Holiday.
Again from Dave, if someone says "I don't know," I am tempted to respond, "You don't know, or you Can't Say?"
Okay, I thought I had more than that, but no more are coming to mind. So what are yours?
It's So Nice to See People Thinking Deeply
And Debra Dickerson does so in this blog posting at Mother Jones.
It's titled "Class Is the New Black, or How I Had to Look Beyond Race and Learn to Love Equality". Cheeky Dr. Strangelove reference, eh?
She makes some interesting points, speaking to black people and others, about the challenges our country has as we face a new chapter in our history of race relations, as demarcated by the inauguration of our first black president.
What is fascinating about the article is to listen to her reflections as she figures out that the way to make things happen, to really improve things is to stop focusing as much on race and to instead focus on helping everyone who needs help, for the good of all of us. She talks about how it's hard to let go of the old approaches, and why it's not necessarily fair, but evidently, she's also taking a lesson from Obama and deciding to be "pragmatic" as the media have taken to calling him.
It's worth a read. Let me know what you think.
Oh, and it's best to ignore the comments on this blog because they get really annoying really quickly.
It's titled "Class Is the New Black, or How I Had to Look Beyond Race and Learn to Love Equality". Cheeky Dr. Strangelove reference, eh?
She makes some interesting points, speaking to black people and others, about the challenges our country has as we face a new chapter in our history of race relations, as demarcated by the inauguration of our first black president.
What is fascinating about the article is to listen to her reflections as she figures out that the way to make things happen, to really improve things is to stop focusing as much on race and to instead focus on helping everyone who needs help, for the good of all of us. She talks about how it's hard to let go of the old approaches, and why it's not necessarily fair, but evidently, she's also taking a lesson from Obama and deciding to be "pragmatic" as the media have taken to calling him.
It's worth a read. Let me know what you think.
Oh, and it's best to ignore the comments on this blog because they get really annoying really quickly.
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
The Things You Can Learn on the Interweb...
There is a lovely article in the NYT today about the comic strip "Peanuts." I never loved "Peanuts", but I have deep respect for it. The article is about a new exhibit that matches the music that Schroeder was actually playing (as evidenced by the notes appearing above his head) with the symphonies those excerpts are from.
What caught my eye though, had to do with the sense of taste, not hearing. (Quel surprise, no?) It mentioned that Charles Schultz had lots of books about Beethoven and knew lots about him. Including his favorite food. Which was, I kid you not, macaroni and cheese. (Though the article, for some reason, calls it "macaroni with cheese".) Who knew they even had macaroni and cheese in Beethoven's time?
You can read about the rest of it here:
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/01/14/arts/design/14pean.html?pagewanted=2&em
What caught my eye though, had to do with the sense of taste, not hearing. (Quel surprise, no?) It mentioned that Charles Schultz had lots of books about Beethoven and knew lots about him. Including his favorite food. Which was, I kid you not, macaroni and cheese. (Though the article, for some reason, calls it "macaroni with cheese".) Who knew they even had macaroni and cheese in Beethoven's time?
You can read about the rest of it here:
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/01/14/arts/design/14pean.html?pagewanted=2&em
Sunday, January 11, 2009
Seattle seems like a nice enough town...
but I guess there can be crazies anywhere.
Have you heard of this Mark Driscoll guy? He's one of those "Christianity needs to take back its balls because Jesus was a Macho Dude" guys. Only he's also a strict predestinationist. It's pretty creepy. (MML, I need your help here on the interpretations of Calvin; I'm out of my league!)
There is a write-up in today' NYT Magazine:
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/01/11/magazine/11punk-t.html?pagewanted=1&em
The writer sums it up pretty nicely at the end: "the doctrine of total human depravity has always had a funny way of emboldening, rather than humbling, its adherents."
Have you heard of this Mark Driscoll guy? He's one of those "Christianity needs to take back its balls because Jesus was a Macho Dude" guys. Only he's also a strict predestinationist. It's pretty creepy. (MML, I need your help here on the interpretations of Calvin; I'm out of my league!)
There is a write-up in today' NYT Magazine:
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/01/11/magazine/11punk-t.html?pagewanted=1&em
The writer sums it up pretty nicely at the end: "the doctrine of total human depravity has always had a funny way of emboldening, rather than humbling, its adherents."
Saturday, January 10, 2009
Some Important Things to Know...
when sorting through the mess in Gaza.
I truly believe that if the American people were just persuaded to go to a big teach-in and learn about the whole story, rather than the version the mainstream media relies on, things would be different.
I truly believe that if the American people were just persuaded to go to a big teach-in and learn about the whole story, rather than the version the mainstream media relies on, things would be different.
Boo-Yah!
Some fabulous news for the world of Lady Preachers:
The Rev. Dr. Sharon Watkins, General Minister and President of my "small, liberal-leaning Protestant denomination," is going to preach at the Inaugural Prayer Service on January 21st. She will be the first woman ever to do so, and it's because of the power of a prayer she gave at the end of a meeting with a diverse group of preachers last summer.
Read all about it here:
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/01/11/us/politics/11minister.html?_r=1
She rocks, by the way, and I voted for her!
The Rev. Dr. Sharon Watkins, General Minister and President of my "small, liberal-leaning Protestant denomination," is going to preach at the Inaugural Prayer Service on January 21st. She will be the first woman ever to do so, and it's because of the power of a prayer she gave at the end of a meeting with a diverse group of preachers last summer.
Read all about it here:
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/01/11/us/politics/11minister.html?_r=1
She rocks, by the way, and I voted for her!
A Little Early Morning Marxist Analysis
I was brought up by a sociologist. That is my excuse for a lot of things, including this post.
I was caused to think about people losing their jobs and being fearful of losing their jobs yesterday (quel surprise, no?). And it made me reflect on a probable connection between the forces of anti-feminism and the forces of Big Capital.
It seems to me that Big Capital probably appreciates those folks who go around blaming the Incredible Decline of America on women taking jobs outside the home. It's not that Big Capital cares whether women work or not; unless it's a way to keep some of their money (which it is, more often than not), BC tends to be gender-neutral.
But what Big Capital knows is that families living on one income are naturally more dependent on keeping that income. A worker who is their family's sole support is less likely to do things that might get them fired, like ask for raises, or to be paid for overtime, or complain about working conditions, or organize a union, or blow a whistle on corruption.
Sigh. Yet another way that misogyny works for The Man.
I was caused to think about people losing their jobs and being fearful of losing their jobs yesterday (quel surprise, no?). And it made me reflect on a probable connection between the forces of anti-feminism and the forces of Big Capital.
It seems to me that Big Capital probably appreciates those folks who go around blaming the Incredible Decline of America on women taking jobs outside the home. It's not that Big Capital cares whether women work or not; unless it's a way to keep some of their money (which it is, more often than not), BC tends to be gender-neutral.
But what Big Capital knows is that families living on one income are naturally more dependent on keeping that income. A worker who is their family's sole support is less likely to do things that might get them fired, like ask for raises, or to be paid for overtime, or complain about working conditions, or organize a union, or blow a whistle on corruption.
Sigh. Yet another way that misogyny works for The Man.
Friday, January 9, 2009
First Friday Five Finally!
So I'm not really part of the Rev Gals Blog Ring yet, because I haven't been blogging for three months yet, but who can resist a set of questions about pancakes?
1. If I'm making pancakes at home, I would rarely use a mix, unless it was a gift and I had it around. I would also never use buttermilk at home, because it seems like a pain, but I would totally order buttermilk pancakes out.
2. I don't usually prefer additions to my pancakes, unless they're chocolate chips, but that's only about once a year. Not a huge fan of blueberries in pancakes even, but would take that over any other weird thing like nuts or bacon...
3. I am happy eating pancakes for pretty much any meal, breakfast, dinner or lunch. Since my favorite meal is brunch, it works out well.
4. Pretty much always and only one topping for me: HONEY! (And lots of butter, of course.) I have been known to do the fruit topping thing (on, not in!) as well, preferably blackberries. Best side dish? Well, at Cracker Barrel, I usually become Carb Girl and have hashbrown casserole, but mostly I don't think pancakes need a side. Fruit might be nice, for color.
5. Favorite pancake restaurant and possibly favorite restaurant -- La Note in Berkeley, CA. I go for the creme fraiche ones, though they have a lovely pear ginger one too. Because they're so hoity-toity Frenchish, they won't let you make substitutions, so I have to add my one pancake onto my order of soft-boiled eggs, instead of trading it for the breakfast potatoes like I would prefer. But it's all so lovely I forgive them. These days, it's pretty much Cracker Barrel though. Sigh.
Ooooh, and the timer went off on the sweet potato biscuits, so now it's not even Friday any more! Better luck next time, perhaps...
1. If I'm making pancakes at home, I would rarely use a mix, unless it was a gift and I had it around. I would also never use buttermilk at home, because it seems like a pain, but I would totally order buttermilk pancakes out.
2. I don't usually prefer additions to my pancakes, unless they're chocolate chips, but that's only about once a year. Not a huge fan of blueberries in pancakes even, but would take that over any other weird thing like nuts or bacon...
3. I am happy eating pancakes for pretty much any meal, breakfast, dinner or lunch. Since my favorite meal is brunch, it works out well.
4. Pretty much always and only one topping for me: HONEY! (And lots of butter, of course.) I have been known to do the fruit topping thing (on, not in!) as well, preferably blackberries. Best side dish? Well, at Cracker Barrel, I usually become Carb Girl and have hashbrown casserole, but mostly I don't think pancakes need a side. Fruit might be nice, for color.
5. Favorite pancake restaurant and possibly favorite restaurant -- La Note in Berkeley, CA. I go for the creme fraiche ones, though they have a lovely pear ginger one too. Because they're so hoity-toity Frenchish, they won't let you make substitutions, so I have to add my one pancake onto my order of soft-boiled eggs, instead of trading it for the breakfast potatoes like I would prefer. But it's all so lovely I forgive them. These days, it's pretty much Cracker Barrel though. Sigh.
Ooooh, and the timer went off on the sweet potato biscuits, so now it's not even Friday any more! Better luck next time, perhaps...
Thursday, January 8, 2009
Um, Thank You, Mr. McConnell?
It's not often that I expect the Senate Minority Leader to make my points for me, yet here he is, echoing what I said the other day about Israel being like us.
http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2009/01/08-9
The Senate passed a resolution expressing "unwavering" commitment to Israel, the article from Reuters says. Because, as Mitch McConnell puts it, "The Israelis ... are responding exactly the same way we would."
Which is precisely the problem. The situation the Israelis have been in for the last 60 years (ie. total INsecurity, constant threats, violence, etc.) is the predictable result of behaving this way. The only reason it hasn't caught up to us is an issue of scale.
But the really sad thing about this story is that if he thought about it, if he were really willing to try and put himself in the shoes of Hamas, he would realize that they, too, are "responding exactly the same way we would." As a Southerner, you would think he would get that a little more, that complete inability to let go of the grudge you have about your recent ancestors being humiliated on their own land. Hamas is acting just like we would too. Which is the other side of the problem.
As long as we're all going to insist on beating the other side in submission, all we're going to get is dead children. Or as the bumper sticker puts it, "War doesn't decide who's right, only who's left."
Peace now.
http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2009/01/08-9
The Senate passed a resolution expressing "unwavering" commitment to Israel, the article from Reuters says. Because, as Mitch McConnell puts it, "The Israelis ... are responding exactly the same way we would."
Which is precisely the problem. The situation the Israelis have been in for the last 60 years (ie. total INsecurity, constant threats, violence, etc.) is the predictable result of behaving this way. The only reason it hasn't caught up to us is an issue of scale.
But the really sad thing about this story is that if he thought about it, if he were really willing to try and put himself in the shoes of Hamas, he would realize that they, too, are "responding exactly the same way we would." As a Southerner, you would think he would get that a little more, that complete inability to let go of the grudge you have about your recent ancestors being humiliated on their own land. Hamas is acting just like we would too. Which is the other side of the problem.
As long as we're all going to insist on beating the other side in submission, all we're going to get is dead children. Or as the bumper sticker puts it, "War doesn't decide who's right, only who's left."
Peace now.
Bits of Wisdom?
As I was putting things back to rights in the living room tonight, I happened to look in one of the little decorative boxes I seem to have acquired so many of over the years. There were four slips of paper with words on them. I will share them with you here, just because...
The first was a fortune cookie fortune. I used to save every fortune I got and write the date and place I got it on the back. This one had no annotation however, just lucky numbers on the back. It says, "He who takes notes listens well."
It seems strange to me that I kept that, since I rarely take notes even when other people are, but maybe that was my point to myself. I'm not sure I believe it though.
There were also two heart-shaped post-it notes with forget-me-nots around the edges, both with song lyrics. Bonus points to whomever can let us know in the comments whose songs these two quotes are from:
"Remember the tin man, who found he had what he thought he lacked."
"Oh, you broke it. Now, you bought it. So, you might as well use it while you got it. Do what you want to do."
And finally, my favorite was clearly from a tea bag tag, probably Yogi tea. Remember when I used to drink caffeine? It says "The One who can rotate the earth for you, can take care of your routine." I love that. It makes me feel calm and safe and like I can breathe again after not noticing that I'd been forgetting to do so. Know what I mean?
This has been another episdode of "Lucky Fresh reacts to random bits of wisdom." Hope you enjoyed it. Join us again soon, as LF looks into another tiny box, or even (heavens!) eats more chocolate!
The first was a fortune cookie fortune. I used to save every fortune I got and write the date and place I got it on the back. This one had no annotation however, just lucky numbers on the back. It says, "He who takes notes listens well."
It seems strange to me that I kept that, since I rarely take notes even when other people are, but maybe that was my point to myself. I'm not sure I believe it though.
There were also two heart-shaped post-it notes with forget-me-nots around the edges, both with song lyrics. Bonus points to whomever can let us know in the comments whose songs these two quotes are from:
"Remember the tin man, who found he had what he thought he lacked."
"Oh, you broke it. Now, you bought it. So, you might as well use it while you got it. Do what you want to do."
And finally, my favorite was clearly from a tea bag tag, probably Yogi tea. Remember when I used to drink caffeine? It says "The One who can rotate the earth for you, can take care of your routine." I love that. It makes me feel calm and safe and like I can breathe again after not noticing that I'd been forgetting to do so. Know what I mean?
This has been another episdode of "Lucky Fresh reacts to random bits of wisdom." Hope you enjoyed it. Join us again soon, as LF looks into another tiny box, or even (heavens!) eats more chocolate!
Wednesday, January 7, 2009
Decorations
I know decent people aren't supposed to judge by appearances, but I do. Take Christmas decorations, for instance.
I was taking mine down tonight, and it got me to thinking. I think approaches to Christmas decorations exist on a spectrum from sentimental to ruthlessly aesthetic. Despite the fact that I was demeaning sentiment on another blog just earlier today, I am somewhere near that end in a spot called something like "ancestric practical". I don't insist on putting every ornament on the tree and every doo-dad around somewhere like I did growing up, but I don't mind if things that have, yes, sentimental value are not as beautiful as they might be.
Take for instance, the china Christmas tree that I inherited from my Great Uncle Allen. My gramma used to have one, and I always thought it was the most beautiful thing. I'm talking about those old-fashioned, china trees with the colored lights that shine through because you put a nightlight bulb in the bottom and plug it in. I always wanted my gramma's to be mine some day. I have no idea what happened to that one. Instead, I got Uncle Allen's. And I am pleased.
But the thing is that Uncle Allen's china Christmas tree only has lights in blue, orange and green. That's kind of weird, and the resulting effect is really not all that beautiful. But that is entirely beside the point now. Because it's still a china Christmas tree, and it was Uncle Allen's, and he never got the respect he deserved, and he, of all his generation still living when it happened, probably had the most respect for my career choice. Plus, even though no one else can see it, it reminds me of the beautiful one that belonged to my gramma. So I display his tree, and I'm happy about it.
There are people in the world, however, who decorate for Christmas based on what it looks like, rather than on what they've inherited and collected through a life-time of relationships. I have a precious tree-like thing made from wooden spools by someone else's long-grown children that I put up on my new piano this year. It has pieces missing and frayed yarn bits on it. You might, charitably, call it "folk art". There are people, I've been led to believe who probably would have thrown it away. But it was given to me by a dear, dear lady from my book group -- an artifact made by her own children -- and I wouldn't dream of not including it.
Who are these people who decorate for looks? Who have trees with all matching ornaments or color themes? What are their lives like? Do I know them? Are you out there? What are you sentimental about, if not Christmas ornaments? I would like to understand you better. In the meantime, to restore my reputation as an anti-sentimentalist, let me say that there is also something really relieving about putting all that away and getting the living room back to rights.
I was taking mine down tonight, and it got me to thinking. I think approaches to Christmas decorations exist on a spectrum from sentimental to ruthlessly aesthetic. Despite the fact that I was demeaning sentiment on another blog just earlier today, I am somewhere near that end in a spot called something like "ancestric practical". I don't insist on putting every ornament on the tree and every doo-dad around somewhere like I did growing up, but I don't mind if things that have, yes, sentimental value are not as beautiful as they might be.
Take for instance, the china Christmas tree that I inherited from my Great Uncle Allen. My gramma used to have one, and I always thought it was the most beautiful thing. I'm talking about those old-fashioned, china trees with the colored lights that shine through because you put a nightlight bulb in the bottom and plug it in. I always wanted my gramma's to be mine some day. I have no idea what happened to that one. Instead, I got Uncle Allen's. And I am pleased.
But the thing is that Uncle Allen's china Christmas tree only has lights in blue, orange and green. That's kind of weird, and the resulting effect is really not all that beautiful. But that is entirely beside the point now. Because it's still a china Christmas tree, and it was Uncle Allen's, and he never got the respect he deserved, and he, of all his generation still living when it happened, probably had the most respect for my career choice. Plus, even though no one else can see it, it reminds me of the beautiful one that belonged to my gramma. So I display his tree, and I'm happy about it.
There are people in the world, however, who decorate for Christmas based on what it looks like, rather than on what they've inherited and collected through a life-time of relationships. I have a precious tree-like thing made from wooden spools by someone else's long-grown children that I put up on my new piano this year. It has pieces missing and frayed yarn bits on it. You might, charitably, call it "folk art". There are people, I've been led to believe who probably would have thrown it away. But it was given to me by a dear, dear lady from my book group -- an artifact made by her own children -- and I wouldn't dream of not including it.
Who are these people who decorate for looks? Who have trees with all matching ornaments or color themes? What are their lives like? Do I know them? Are you out there? What are you sentimental about, if not Christmas ornaments? I would like to understand you better. In the meantime, to restore my reputation as an anti-sentimentalist, let me say that there is also something really relieving about putting all that away and getting the living room back to rights.
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
Public Servant School
An article from the NYT about some guy's dream for the government to open a special school for public servants.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/01/07/us/07academy.html
Not sure what I think about this. Might be great, or it might create too many "insiders" like someone in the article suggests...
What say you, readers?
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/01/07/us/07academy.html
Not sure what I think about this. Might be great, or it might create too many "insiders" like someone in the article suggests...
What say you, readers?
In Which I Wade into Tricky Waters, ie. the River Jordan
A friend sent me this article from Common Dreams today:
http://www.commondreams.org/view/2009/01/06-13
Written by Ira Chernus, it suggests that the most effective way to advocate for the suffering people of Gaza is by being pro-Palestinian, AND pro-Israeli, AND pro-peace.
You should read it. It makes a lot of sense.
And it made me wonder something...
I'm beginning to think that the situation in Israel/Palestine is the prime example of what could happen to this country. Because Israel leads with military solutions, just like we do, only their situation actually involves real security threats. Israel is what you get when your only tool is a hammer, just like ours is, and your problems are more than theoretical. You end up with a lot of smashed things.
The failure of historical Israeli policy to create peace is the perfect example of why US foreign policy will ultimately fail as well, as long as it remains based on being a military super-power. Why? Because military answers are simply inadequate for long-term solutions.
Until there is justice -- until people have clean water, and the opportunity to earn a living, and education for their kids, and political and artistic and religious freedom -- there will be no peace.
No amount of walls or check-points or special papers for certain "citizens" or no-fly lists or whatever is going to help.
The US operates this way, but we are so isolated, we can't see the results clearly. The mess in the Holy Land is an unfortunate illustration of the eventual and interminable outcome.
I will close with a quote from an unknown resident of the Holy Land, speaking to my step-brother Nate some years ago: "The conflict here is not between the Israelis and the Palestinians. The conflict is between those who want peace and those who don't."
http://www.commondreams.org/view/2009/01/06-13
Written by Ira Chernus, it suggests that the most effective way to advocate for the suffering people of Gaza is by being pro-Palestinian, AND pro-Israeli, AND pro-peace.
You should read it. It makes a lot of sense.
And it made me wonder something...
I'm beginning to think that the situation in Israel/Palestine is the prime example of what could happen to this country. Because Israel leads with military solutions, just like we do, only their situation actually involves real security threats. Israel is what you get when your only tool is a hammer, just like ours is, and your problems are more than theoretical. You end up with a lot of smashed things.
The failure of historical Israeli policy to create peace is the perfect example of why US foreign policy will ultimately fail as well, as long as it remains based on being a military super-power. Why? Because military answers are simply inadequate for long-term solutions.
Until there is justice -- until people have clean water, and the opportunity to earn a living, and education for their kids, and political and artistic and religious freedom -- there will be no peace.
No amount of walls or check-points or special papers for certain "citizens" or no-fly lists or whatever is going to help.
The US operates this way, but we are so isolated, we can't see the results clearly. The mess in the Holy Land is an unfortunate illustration of the eventual and interminable outcome.
I will close with a quote from an unknown resident of the Holy Land, speaking to my step-brother Nate some years ago: "The conflict here is not between the Israelis and the Palestinians. The conflict is between those who want peace and those who don't."
The Meaning of Church?
So there's this article in the NYT about rebelling Catholics in Boston. (No, there wasn't any tea involved.)
You can read it here: http://www.nytimes.com/2009/01/06/us/06vigil.html?hp
They are rebelling because the diocese, which is practically bankrupt after all the sexual abuse scandals, is trying to close their parish churches.
According to the article, this struggle has given them a renewed faith. They are keeping vigil 24-7, so the diocese can't come in and lock them out. They are demonstrating commitment that most pastors would believe could only exist in heaven. There are a bunch of comments from parishioners about how they've discovered whole new dimensions to their faith and all that.
There is something about this that bugs me. The article does mention that they have opened their ministries up, and they are doing helpful things; they're not just sitting around making sure the doors don't get locked.
But isn't it a little sad that what got people so passionate about their faith was primarily the threat of re-structure, that is, of closing a particular building and presumably merging certain congregations with others? Are particular buildings and particular groups of people really that crucial to the practice of faith?
Now, obviously, part of my problem is that I'm definitely not a sentimentalist. I can get attached to buildings as much as anyone. And I believe in historic preservation and all that. But it's not like the diocese gave them an "F" and kicked them out of heaven. Times are tough; cuts happen. Sometimes things have to be given up. God knows the money required to keep up all the facilities the Roman Catholic Church owns is an unholy waste of resources. (Have you been to the Vatican lately? If that guy had a good pawn shop, Catholics wouldn't have to tithe for another 1000 years!)
Probably, they could have gone along with the cuts and adjusted and been just fine. But instead, they got riled up about the buildings, and now things are different. People are more excited and engaged. I find it a little strange.
To really illustrate my Protestant bias, let me add this: There was also a hint from the article that what they really found exciting was rebelling against the hierarchy. They were having services without priests and having women lead worship and all sorts of heretical things. And they were enjoying it. To which I just say, welcome to the rest of the church, brothers and sisters!
You can read it here: http://www.nytimes.com/2009/01/06/us/06vigil.html?hp
They are rebelling because the diocese, which is practically bankrupt after all the sexual abuse scandals, is trying to close their parish churches.
According to the article, this struggle has given them a renewed faith. They are keeping vigil 24-7, so the diocese can't come in and lock them out. They are demonstrating commitment that most pastors would believe could only exist in heaven. There are a bunch of comments from parishioners about how they've discovered whole new dimensions to their faith and all that.
There is something about this that bugs me. The article does mention that they have opened their ministries up, and they are doing helpful things; they're not just sitting around making sure the doors don't get locked.
But isn't it a little sad that what got people so passionate about their faith was primarily the threat of re-structure, that is, of closing a particular building and presumably merging certain congregations with others? Are particular buildings and particular groups of people really that crucial to the practice of faith?
Now, obviously, part of my problem is that I'm definitely not a sentimentalist. I can get attached to buildings as much as anyone. And I believe in historic preservation and all that. But it's not like the diocese gave them an "F" and kicked them out of heaven. Times are tough; cuts happen. Sometimes things have to be given up. God knows the money required to keep up all the facilities the Roman Catholic Church owns is an unholy waste of resources. (Have you been to the Vatican lately? If that guy had a good pawn shop, Catholics wouldn't have to tithe for another 1000 years!)
Probably, they could have gone along with the cuts and adjusted and been just fine. But instead, they got riled up about the buildings, and now things are different. People are more excited and engaged. I find it a little strange.
To really illustrate my Protestant bias, let me add this: There was also a hint from the article that what they really found exciting was rebelling against the hierarchy. They were having services without priests and having women lead worship and all sorts of heretical things. And they were enjoying it. To which I just say, welcome to the rest of the church, brothers and sisters!
Dove Bad Ideas
I just ate a Dove Promise. It was, of course, left-over Christmas chocolate, of which there is way too much in this house. (Come visit and you can have some, please!)
The thing about Dove Promises is that they have little messages on the inside.
This one said, "What if the 'season to be jolly' lasted all year?"
Here is what I think about that: we wouldn't get any work done, and we'd all weigh 30 pounds more than we already do, and we might not be speaking to each other.
Having that much fun just shouldn't last too long. It's not healthy. Call me a Puritan if you want to, but trying to be Christian all year is hard enough. I'm not up for jolly too.
The thing about Dove Promises is that they have little messages on the inside.
This one said, "What if the 'season to be jolly' lasted all year?"
Here is what I think about that: we wouldn't get any work done, and we'd all weigh 30 pounds more than we already do, and we might not be speaking to each other.
Having that much fun just shouldn't last too long. It's not healthy. Call me a Puritan if you want to, but trying to be Christian all year is hard enough. I'm not up for jolly too.
Sunday, January 4, 2009
All Politicians are Cretans. All Cretans are Corrupt.
I was extraordinarily disappointed to read this afternoon that Bill Richardson, governor of New Mexico and recent presidential primary candidate, has withdrawn from consideration as Obama's Commerce secretary because of an on-going grand jury investigation into something or other he may have done as governor.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/01/05/us/politics/05richardson.html?hp
It is becoming increasingly easy to be convinced that all politicians mis-use their influence and power. People have friends. They like their friends. They think their friends do good work in their various fields. They get elected. Their friends help. Then the thing they're in charge of has needs, needs that can be met by the work the friends do so well. So they ask the friends to do the work. It's so hard to avoid. But so messy.
What's especially disappointing is that the regulations set up to keep this sort of thing from happening are partially there to dismantle the "good old boys" network, which should be a structure of white privilege, since that's what the good old boys are. So you would think people of color would be especially aware of the need to avoid stuff like this. But they're not really. They're not any more virtuous than the rest of us, sadly, despite the historical experience of being on the losing end of such structures.
There was a time when I considered getting into politics. At this point, I don't think I want to know what it would do to me. Which I suppose is a spiritually healthier place to be than to just be disgusted with Bill Richardson (and Blago, and Siegelman, and Palin, and on and on).
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/01/05/us/politics/05richardson.html?hp
It is becoming increasingly easy to be convinced that all politicians mis-use their influence and power. People have friends. They like their friends. They think their friends do good work in their various fields. They get elected. Their friends help. Then the thing they're in charge of has needs, needs that can be met by the work the friends do so well. So they ask the friends to do the work. It's so hard to avoid. But so messy.
What's especially disappointing is that the regulations set up to keep this sort of thing from happening are partially there to dismantle the "good old boys" network, which should be a structure of white privilege, since that's what the good old boys are. So you would think people of color would be especially aware of the need to avoid stuff like this. But they're not really. They're not any more virtuous than the rest of us, sadly, despite the historical experience of being on the losing end of such structures.
There was a time when I considered getting into politics. At this point, I don't think I want to know what it would do to me. Which I suppose is a spiritually healthier place to be than to just be disgusted with Bill Richardson (and Blago, and Siegelman, and Palin, and on and on).
Saturday, January 3, 2009
The Pursuit of Realyty
We watched "The Pursuit of Happyness" last night at our house. It is intense. I am going to spoil it for you now, though no worse than any trailer does these days.
It is based on the true story of Chris Gardner, played by Will Smith, who overcame incredible odds to become a stockbroker, after a disappointing life as a medical equipment salesman who lost his wife and home. He manages to get an internship with an investment firm, one of twenty of whom one will be chosen for a job at the end. The internship is unpaid, which means that Chris and his son end up being homeless while he's doing the internship. As you can probably guess (because why would they make the movie otherwise?) he gets the job at the end.
It's a very intense, at times depressing and hard to take movie. And, of course, it's very inspiring, as it is intended to be. But there are some other things that result from the creation of this movie as well, things that are more subtle.
The good stuff first: There is a pretty accurate portrayal of some of the many obstacles that face the "have-nots" in our country. Everything seems to go wrong at once. Basic transportation is a major obstacle that causes other problems. Things get stolen from you because you don't have safe places to store them. Jobs are hard to get because you can't always show up dressed appropriately. It's hard to catch a break when you're so far behind.
There is also a very moving and fairly accurate (as far as I know) representation of the homeless shelter at Glide Memorial Methodist Church in San Francisco and its pastor, Rev. Cecil Williams. In one of the special features, the actual Chris Gardner talks about how the first draft of the script didn't include him specifically and how he insisted that Rev. Williams have a role. He plays himself, which is probably anachronistic, since it's 20 years later, but who cares?
The difficulty I have with this movie is that is ends up becoming another volume in the canon of American dream, you-can-pull-yourself-up-by-your-own-bootstraps stories. They actually talk about that in the special features, when they're discussing how they got an Italian director, because only foreigners really get the American dream. Or something like that. I felt better about the movie before I watched that part. Because it made me realize something else.
Chris Gardner has an amazing story. He overcame incredible odds. He worked harder and faced challenges than most of us will ever have to. But the other thing is that Chris Gardner is demonstrably smarter, both intellectually and socially, than the average American. This is illustrated in one scene where he solves a Rubix cube in just a few minutes. But it's not necessarily given the emphasis it deserves, especially in a society that has, until very recently, been so hostile to intelligence. He managed to do what he did -- what most people could not do -- because he was way smarter than most people.
Which means the actual moral of the story is not that anyone can achieve the American dream, but that you really only have a shot at it (assuming it's not handed to you by virtue of birth) if you are extraordinarily gifted in multiple ways. I know that's not very uplifting, but it's more real than the other. But it's also something the movie doesn't want to focus on. Because if it did, people wouldn't be so excited about watching it.
It's worth watching. Perhaps because it is more complex than it wants us to think it is. There are also stellar performances from Will Smith and his son Jaden. Their chemistry, and quite frankly, Jaden's acting chops are a joy to watch. There is a lot to learn from this movie. It just might not be what Hollywood is trying to sell.
It is based on the true story of Chris Gardner, played by Will Smith, who overcame incredible odds to become a stockbroker, after a disappointing life as a medical equipment salesman who lost his wife and home. He manages to get an internship with an investment firm, one of twenty of whom one will be chosen for a job at the end. The internship is unpaid, which means that Chris and his son end up being homeless while he's doing the internship. As you can probably guess (because why would they make the movie otherwise?) he gets the job at the end.
It's a very intense, at times depressing and hard to take movie. And, of course, it's very inspiring, as it is intended to be. But there are some other things that result from the creation of this movie as well, things that are more subtle.
The good stuff first: There is a pretty accurate portrayal of some of the many obstacles that face the "have-nots" in our country. Everything seems to go wrong at once. Basic transportation is a major obstacle that causes other problems. Things get stolen from you because you don't have safe places to store them. Jobs are hard to get because you can't always show up dressed appropriately. It's hard to catch a break when you're so far behind.
There is also a very moving and fairly accurate (as far as I know) representation of the homeless shelter at Glide Memorial Methodist Church in San Francisco and its pastor, Rev. Cecil Williams. In one of the special features, the actual Chris Gardner talks about how the first draft of the script didn't include him specifically and how he insisted that Rev. Williams have a role. He plays himself, which is probably anachronistic, since it's 20 years later, but who cares?
The difficulty I have with this movie is that is ends up becoming another volume in the canon of American dream, you-can-pull-yourself-up-by-your-own-bootstraps stories. They actually talk about that in the special features, when they're discussing how they got an Italian director, because only foreigners really get the American dream. Or something like that. I felt better about the movie before I watched that part. Because it made me realize something else.
Chris Gardner has an amazing story. He overcame incredible odds. He worked harder and faced challenges than most of us will ever have to. But the other thing is that Chris Gardner is demonstrably smarter, both intellectually and socially, than the average American. This is illustrated in one scene where he solves a Rubix cube in just a few minutes. But it's not necessarily given the emphasis it deserves, especially in a society that has, until very recently, been so hostile to intelligence. He managed to do what he did -- what most people could not do -- because he was way smarter than most people.
Which means the actual moral of the story is not that anyone can achieve the American dream, but that you really only have a shot at it (assuming it's not handed to you by virtue of birth) if you are extraordinarily gifted in multiple ways. I know that's not very uplifting, but it's more real than the other. But it's also something the movie doesn't want to focus on. Because if it did, people wouldn't be so excited about watching it.
It's worth watching. Perhaps because it is more complex than it wants us to think it is. There are also stellar performances from Will Smith and his son Jaden. Their chemistry, and quite frankly, Jaden's acting chops are a joy to watch. There is a lot to learn from this movie. It just might not be what Hollywood is trying to sell.
An Interesting Connection
Paul Krugman is a very smart (and award-winning) man. His most recent column makes an important connection that goes unremarked upon too often: that the Republican fetish with cutting taxes is directly related to their historic strategy of dividing Americans by race.
You can read the article here (I hope - you might have to register):
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/01/02/opinion/02krugman.html?em
I have been increasingly riled up by the insanely hypocritical knee-jerk reaction many people have to taxes. Especially here in the red state I live in, mere mention that you will cut taxes, or that your opponent will raise them, is enough to get you elected. What's crazy about that, is that these are people who would probably brag to you about how their grandparents didn't accept any government hand-outs during hard times, but whose state get far more back from the Feds than we put in. We supposedly have "government of the people, by the people, and for the people"; why would anyone think it would be free?
The connection Krugman points to makes the whole thing make a lot more sense. People don't want the government "taking" their money, because they think it will be given to "Those People," that is, blacks. One need only explore the myth of the welfare queen to see how the Republican party has exploited this connection.
There were those who said that race was The Issue of the 20th century. It appears that it may be The Issue of the 21st as well, albeit with an economic disguise. This despite the impending inauguration of our first bi-racial president. He's all about cutting taxes too, after all. Sigh.
You can read the article here (I hope - you might have to register):
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/01/02/opinion/02krugman.html?em
I have been increasingly riled up by the insanely hypocritical knee-jerk reaction many people have to taxes. Especially here in the red state I live in, mere mention that you will cut taxes, or that your opponent will raise them, is enough to get you elected. What's crazy about that, is that these are people who would probably brag to you about how their grandparents didn't accept any government hand-outs during hard times, but whose state get far more back from the Feds than we put in. We supposedly have "government of the people, by the people, and for the people"; why would anyone think it would be free?
The connection Krugman points to makes the whole thing make a lot more sense. People don't want the government "taking" their money, because they think it will be given to "Those People," that is, blacks. One need only explore the myth of the welfare queen to see how the Republican party has exploited this connection.
There were those who said that race was The Issue of the 20th century. It appears that it may be The Issue of the 21st as well, albeit with an economic disguise. This despite the impending inauguration of our first bi-racial president. He's all about cutting taxes too, after all. Sigh.
On Avoiding the "Patience of Unanswered Prayer"
Prayer is a weird thing. As a pastor, I have developed a lot of thoughts about prayer over the years and a lot of different understandings and practices of prayer. Mostly, they work just fine, though I have my dry spells like anyone else.
Recently though, there's been this other thing to pray about. One of those things you're not really sure you should pray for, because you might not get it. I'm not really sure how I feel about praying for God to make specific things happen in my life. I'm not sure I believe that God does things like that, or that it's fair to put God in that position, or to ask for favor over others, or whatever it is that's entailed by asking for certain things.
But lately, I decided to just go for it, whether it makes sense or not. The text of the prayer, though usually it was in shorthand, was something like, "God, I know this might not happen, and you might not work this way, but we really, really, really need this, so please, please, please, please, please, please, please."
It made me feel a little desperate to pray this way. But there is absolutely nothing else I can do to influence the outcome of this particular question. And I had to do something.
So yesterday, we found out that we've made it through the first step. We're going to Round Two. I'm not even sure when I was saying "please" if I was asking for anything more than that. So now I have to decide if I'm willing to pray about Round Two the same way. I'm guessing I am.
In the end, whether God works this way or not (about which I am going to refuse to have an opinion), the practice of this sort of desperate prayer can be healthy, I think. It is teaching me humility and hope and possibly trust. It reminds me that the other shorthand thing included in the prayer is "if it be thy will."
There is a hymn we sing that includes the line "teach me the patience of unanswered prayer." That is definitely not what I want to happen in this situation. But I think one of the reasons pastors sometimes counsel folks to avoid this type of prayer is because of the potential fall-out if people don't get what they ask for. I know that I would be terribly, terribly disappointed. But I don't think I would blame God. I don't think I would blame anyone. And perhaps I would learn a little of the "patience of unanswered prayer." But here's hoping we can save that lesson for another time!
Recently though, there's been this other thing to pray about. One of those things you're not really sure you should pray for, because you might not get it. I'm not really sure how I feel about praying for God to make specific things happen in my life. I'm not sure I believe that God does things like that, or that it's fair to put God in that position, or to ask for favor over others, or whatever it is that's entailed by asking for certain things.
But lately, I decided to just go for it, whether it makes sense or not. The text of the prayer, though usually it was in shorthand, was something like, "God, I know this might not happen, and you might not work this way, but we really, really, really need this, so please, please, please, please, please, please, please."
It made me feel a little desperate to pray this way. But there is absolutely nothing else I can do to influence the outcome of this particular question. And I had to do something.
So yesterday, we found out that we've made it through the first step. We're going to Round Two. I'm not even sure when I was saying "please" if I was asking for anything more than that. So now I have to decide if I'm willing to pray about Round Two the same way. I'm guessing I am.
In the end, whether God works this way or not (about which I am going to refuse to have an opinion), the practice of this sort of desperate prayer can be healthy, I think. It is teaching me humility and hope and possibly trust. It reminds me that the other shorthand thing included in the prayer is "if it be thy will."
There is a hymn we sing that includes the line "teach me the patience of unanswered prayer." That is definitely not what I want to happen in this situation. But I think one of the reasons pastors sometimes counsel folks to avoid this type of prayer is because of the potential fall-out if people don't get what they ask for. I know that I would be terribly, terribly disappointed. But I don't think I would blame God. I don't think I would blame anyone. And perhaps I would learn a little of the "patience of unanswered prayer." But here's hoping we can save that lesson for another time!
Thursday, January 1, 2009
The Complications of Tradition
My husband and I returned from my in-laws' house in the northeast yesterday. (Dial-up does not inspire much blogging; hence the week+ long silence. Hope I didn't lose you.) Turns out plane tickets are cheaper if you fly on holidays.
Fortunately, we got home early enough to spend the evening at the home of a couple of good friends of ours. Bizarrely, we've known these people for less than a year, but we clicked. It's nice to find people that you're comfortable with almost immediately. And we both are, with both of them. Doesn't happen that often.
But it does happen frequently enough, if you look at the course of your lifetime. And occasions like New Year's Eve (and Thanksgiving actually), when it's a holiday, but not necessarily a family-centered one, get me thinking about something I think I would like to be able to do. I love to daydream about having all our good friends all come together once a year or so at the same time, for a few days. Lots of good, but easy food, hanging out, games, music, what-have-you... It would be such a great mix of people.
The thing is that our friends are spread out all over the country. So for something like this to happen would require schedule-coordination we're probably not going to see this side of Jordan. But I like to dream about it. I think it comes from another family's tradition that I was briefly marginally aware of in my childhood. It just seemed like such a beautiful thing.
But then I got to thinking... I really like all these people that we would invite. (Well, okay, there might be some of my husband's friends there that would annoy me, but I could escape them mostly...) But mostly what I like about them is having one-on-one conversations. I mean, I like to play board games, but that is not the foundation of most of my friendships. So even while I like to daydream about this scenario, it's possible it would really be a nightmare: So many people, all of whom I'd like to talk to, but with too many of them present at one time to be able to talk to any one of them for real.
The more I think about it, the more I realize it would probably be a big let-down. Which leaves me with the option of making arrangements on a year-by-year basis to see one or two friends at a time, spreading them out over the years, hoping to stay in touch even when we don't see each other. It doesn't create a tradition, but it might make for deeper friendships. Especially since, unlike people in movies, my friends and I have budgets which do not include lots of plane tickets and week-long rentals of beach houses.
So maybe tradition isn't all it's cracked up to be. It can become constricting and controlling and a burden, after all. I guess I'll just wait to get all these people together to hang out in heaven, and for now, just enjoy them the way I enjoy them -- one on one.
Perhaps my New Year's resolution will be to reflect on the friendships that are important to me and make sure I am investing in them in ways that will strengthen them to be able to withstand the distance that separates us. And to enjoy the ones that are right here at hand.
Happy New Year!
Fortunately, we got home early enough to spend the evening at the home of a couple of good friends of ours. Bizarrely, we've known these people for less than a year, but we clicked. It's nice to find people that you're comfortable with almost immediately. And we both are, with both of them. Doesn't happen that often.
But it does happen frequently enough, if you look at the course of your lifetime. And occasions like New Year's Eve (and Thanksgiving actually), when it's a holiday, but not necessarily a family-centered one, get me thinking about something I think I would like to be able to do. I love to daydream about having all our good friends all come together once a year or so at the same time, for a few days. Lots of good, but easy food, hanging out, games, music, what-have-you... It would be such a great mix of people.
The thing is that our friends are spread out all over the country. So for something like this to happen would require schedule-coordination we're probably not going to see this side of Jordan. But I like to dream about it. I think it comes from another family's tradition that I was briefly marginally aware of in my childhood. It just seemed like such a beautiful thing.
But then I got to thinking... I really like all these people that we would invite. (Well, okay, there might be some of my husband's friends there that would annoy me, but I could escape them mostly...) But mostly what I like about them is having one-on-one conversations. I mean, I like to play board games, but that is not the foundation of most of my friendships. So even while I like to daydream about this scenario, it's possible it would really be a nightmare: So many people, all of whom I'd like to talk to, but with too many of them present at one time to be able to talk to any one of them for real.
The more I think about it, the more I realize it would probably be a big let-down. Which leaves me with the option of making arrangements on a year-by-year basis to see one or two friends at a time, spreading them out over the years, hoping to stay in touch even when we don't see each other. It doesn't create a tradition, but it might make for deeper friendships. Especially since, unlike people in movies, my friends and I have budgets which do not include lots of plane tickets and week-long rentals of beach houses.
So maybe tradition isn't all it's cracked up to be. It can become constricting and controlling and a burden, after all. I guess I'll just wait to get all these people together to hang out in heaven, and for now, just enjoy them the way I enjoy them -- one on one.
Perhaps my New Year's resolution will be to reflect on the friendships that are important to me and make sure I am investing in them in ways that will strengthen them to be able to withstand the distance that separates us. And to enjoy the ones that are right here at hand.
Happy New Year!
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