I know that I catch a lot of flack from passengers in my car because of my semi-neurotic obsession with choosing a right-turn route over a left turn route. Well as it turns out, UPS has been making a point of turning right almost 90% of the time in their routes. This has lead to shorter idling time and has saved the company upwards of 3 million gallons of fuel per year.
Not only do right turns save gas, but they also help save commute time. So next time you're behind the wheel and looking at the rising gas prices at the pump, remember to make the "right turn" whenever possible.
Showing posts with label Life. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Life. Show all posts
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
Saturday, May 10, 2008
Who's Been On Notice This Week?
First off, Cyclones: Stop trying to fool us, just call it a hurricane. The average American doesn't know the difference and those in the Cincinnati area think you're talking about ECHL Hockey. Overheard last weekend in Cincinnati "I have no idea where this Myanmar team came from but the Cyclones sure crushed 'em!". (All joking aside, if you'd like to support the relief efforts in Myanmar UNICEF and World Vision are both accepting donations) Seriously, "Tropical Cyclone Nargis" doesn't sound nearly as devastating as "Hurricane Nargis".
Is anyone else appalled by this talk about the possibility of the first FeMinority President? (that's right, I combined Female and Minority into one word, recognize the skills) Am I the only one that doesn't think that race or gender should matter in a presidential election? For some reason people think being a minority or a woman gives you super-leadership and presidential-y powers... I think not. I'd buy it if this was an athletic event or cooking/parenting competition then I would be all for this perceived advantage.
Did anyone outside of Ohio hear about the newest $.23 pizza apology/marketing ploy from Papa Johns? Basically someone had a great idea to make up No. 23 T-shirts with the word "Crybaby" and the Papa John's logo, which Washington Wizards fans flaunted during Friday's playoff game in Washington DC in reference to Lebron James complaining about hard fouls during the last playoff series.
So what did Papa Johns do? They gave a public apology and offered $.23 pizzas for customers in the Cleveland, Toledo & Columbus areas. Nice, just goes to show that if you whine and cry enough you'll get your way (and $.23 large, single topping, pizzas from Papa Johns).
Oh, and what the hell is PETA doing? I understand being all weepy over the whipping of race horses, but calling for the suspension of Gabriel Saez (the jockey of Eight Belles, who was euthanized shortly after breaking both ankles after finishing second in the Kentucky Derby) is just really stupid. While I agree that this tragedy should help pave the way for safer surfaces, PETA just needs to settle down and take a breath, as long as it does not abuse an animal or insect in the process.
Mother's Day is right around the corner... do we really need to make it an official holiday? I thought every day was Mother's Day... but maybe that's just me.
Bomb-Diggity: Like "Your Mom" jokes were to 2007 bomb-diggity is the "retro-bring-back-phrase" of 2008. Pass it on, because we're bringing it back.
Conforming Non-Conformist: Yeah, I get it, you're a rebel just like all your friends. Its a good thing you aren't one of those mindless sheep wearing what everyone else wears just like the rest of your hippie-crew. In reality you just want to shock people with your statements and "original" thoughts... Here's a clue be different, be eclectic, just because you don't agree with "pop-culture" doesn't make you any less or a conformist (or hypocrite) than the other 6 billion sheep on the planet. Oh and cut that emo-bang, you look like a tool. Oh, and while you're at it, cut the self-loathing crap, if you're reading this, you have a computer, or you have access to a computer so you live better than most of the world. Your life is great. Stop thinking about your own piddly little issues, step back and take a look around this world. Don't start getting all upset about how you live so good and don't do enough for others either... that's still your self-centered self-loathing sneaking in on the other side. If you're always bogged down in the negative when can anything good happen? But go ahead call me a conformist who doesn't see your pain. Tell me I don't understand or that I'm out of touch, just keep focusing on your self-loathing so you don't really have to deal with the real issues that make your life suck. Maybe you're really just afraid of what it would take to change yourself instead of blaming everyone else for your poor whiny woe-is-me existence.
Peace.
Friday, May 9, 2008
Gun-Shy Control
Mountains On The Ocean Floor
Words and music by Andrew Peterson
(I Samuel 16:7, Revelation 2:17, Romans 7:15-25, Phillipians 1:6)
My uncle’s in the county jail
His time is on his hands
He knows he chose a barren cell
Over a fair and fertile land
He took another hit
He hit another high
He flew until he fell
Just like he has a thousand times
Nothing ever seems to change
But miles away beneath the waves
There are mountains
Mountains on the ocean floor
They’re rising from the deep
But no one ever sees
No one ever sees
I can’t believe I landed there
I swear I swore it off
I know that I can’t stand it here
Still I came and took a fall
I wish that I could shake it
I wish that I was free
I wish that I was half the man
I wish that I could be
There are mountains
Mountains on the ocean floor
They’re moving up so slow
No one ever knows
No one ever knows
But miles away beneath the waves
Down below the dirt
Hotter than a flame
In the belly of the earth
He has given you a Name
There are mountains
Mountains on the ocean floor
They’re rising from the deep
Where no one ever sees
There are mountains
They’re hidden there beneath the waves
They’re moving up so slow
No one ever knows
There’s a molten heart of stone
That is waiting to explode
Only God can see it grow
Words and music by Andrew Peterson
(I Samuel 16:7, Revelation 2:17, Romans 7:15-25, Phillipians 1:6)
My uncle’s in the county jail
His time is on his hands
He knows he chose a barren cell
Over a fair and fertile land
He took another hit
He hit another high
He flew until he fell
Just like he has a thousand times
Nothing ever seems to change
But miles away beneath the waves
There are mountains
Mountains on the ocean floor
They’re rising from the deep
But no one ever sees
No one ever sees
I can’t believe I landed there
I swear I swore it off
I know that I can’t stand it here
Still I came and took a fall
I wish that I could shake it
I wish that I was free
I wish that I was half the man
I wish that I could be
There are mountains
Mountains on the ocean floor
They’re moving up so slow
No one ever knows
No one ever knows
But miles away beneath the waves
Down below the dirt
Hotter than a flame
In the belly of the earth
He has given you a Name
There are mountains
Mountains on the ocean floor
They’re rising from the deep
Where no one ever sees
There are mountains
They’re hidden there beneath the waves
They’re moving up so slow
No one ever knows
There’s a molten heart of stone
That is waiting to explode
Only God can see it grow
Tuesday, August 14, 2007
Preseason AFC North Predictions: Cleveland
Part 3 of my 4 part series on the AFC North Preseason Predictions click here for part 1 and part 2
First of all, let me say the Browns are going to be one of the worst teams in the league so I'm sorry if the commentary seems short and/or redundant.
Pittsburgh- L
Just plain not good enough yet, be it Anderson, Frye or (the unlikely) Quinn the QB situation will not be good here, especially in the first game. Jamal Lewis can't provide enough on the ground and B. Edwards is going to be getting a lot of Steeler attention.
Cincinnati- L
Again, they're not good enough at QB and the O-Line still has questions even with all of the off-season moves. Health is an issue and the Bengals take this opportunity to try out a more aggressive pass rush.
at Oakland- W
This may be the worst game of the year. Oakland has a good Defense but Cleveland's Defensive playmakers make more of a difference in this poor excuse for a football game.
Baltimore- L
This is going to be a looooong season for whoever "wins" the QB job in Cleveland...
at New England- L
Nope, next.
Miami- L
Miami's D may be getting older but their pass rush is enough to rattle the Browns. Jayson Taylor has multiple sacks and/or turnovers here
BYE (Whew)
at St. Louis- W
Somehow the D holds on here. Maybe St. Louis gets injured in key spots, maybe luck is on there side but I think the Brownies pull this one out.
Seattle- L
Come on, this is big boy football...
at Pittsburgh- L
If this was a home game then they would have a chance, but since this mid-season match-up is at Heinz Field, the Steelers win. K. Wimbley goes off here, but its not enough.
at Baltimore- L
By now Quinn is under center running for his life pouting after every game
Houston- W
Cold weather is settling on the Dawg Pound, the Texans are moving in the right direction but they lose this battle. DeMeco Ryans provides Brady Quinn with plenty of grass stains on his jersey.
at Arizona- L
In the dome the Cardinals offense is too much in the air for this oft-injured secondary. Edge has an opportunity to expose the over-agressive LBs with draws and screens.
at NY Jets- L
Mangenius shows Romo who's the better Belichick protege.
Buffalo- W
Buffalo is shooting for a higher draft pick in this game and they get one step closer here.
at Cincinnati- L
Cincinnati is in a close AFCN playoff race with Baltimore and every win counts. While the Bengals could slip up here, I say they roll over the Dawgs.
San Francisco- L
A pathetic end to the season as Romo gets his second straight 4-12 season. Good news is they get another high draft pick next year...oh wait, you wasted it on Brady Quinn! Ha!
4-12 Crying themselves to sleep in the offseason.
First of all, let me say the Browns are going to be one of the worst teams in the league so I'm sorry if the commentary seems short and/or redundant.
Pittsburgh- L
Just plain not good enough yet, be it Anderson, Frye or (the unlikely) Quinn the QB situation will not be good here, especially in the first game. Jamal Lewis can't provide enough on the ground and B. Edwards is going to be getting a lot of Steeler attention.
Cincinnati- L
Again, they're not good enough at QB and the O-Line still has questions even with all of the off-season moves. Health is an issue and the Bengals take this opportunity to try out a more aggressive pass rush.
at Oakland- W
This may be the worst game of the year. Oakland has a good Defense but Cleveland's Defensive playmakers make more of a difference in this poor excuse for a football game.
Baltimore- L
This is going to be a looooong season for whoever "wins" the QB job in Cleveland...
at New England- L
Nope, next.
Miami- L
Miami's D may be getting older but their pass rush is enough to rattle the Browns. Jayson Taylor has multiple sacks and/or turnovers here
BYE (Whew)
at St. Louis- W
Somehow the D holds on here. Maybe St. Louis gets injured in key spots, maybe luck is on there side but I think the Brownies pull this one out.
Seattle- L
Come on, this is big boy football...
at Pittsburgh- L
If this was a home game then they would have a chance, but since this mid-season match-up is at Heinz Field, the Steelers win. K. Wimbley goes off here, but its not enough.
at Baltimore- L
By now Quinn is under center running for his life pouting after every game
Houston- W
Cold weather is settling on the Dawg Pound, the Texans are moving in the right direction but they lose this battle. DeMeco Ryans provides Brady Quinn with plenty of grass stains on his jersey.
at Arizona- L
In the dome the Cardinals offense is too much in the air for this oft-injured secondary. Edge has an opportunity to expose the over-agressive LBs with draws and screens.
at NY Jets- L
Mangenius shows Romo who's the better Belichick protege.
Buffalo- W
Buffalo is shooting for a higher draft pick in this game and they get one step closer here.
at Cincinnati- L
Cincinnati is in a close AFCN playoff race with Baltimore and every win counts. While the Bengals could slip up here, I say they roll over the Dawgs.
San Francisco- L
A pathetic end to the season as Romo gets his second straight 4-12 season. Good news is they get another high draft pick next year...oh wait, you wasted it on Brady Quinn! Ha!
4-12 Crying themselves to sleep in the offseason.
Tuesday, August 7, 2007
Preseason AFC North Predictions: Pittsburgh
Part 2 of my 4 part series on the AFC North Preseason Predictions click here for part 1
at Cleveland: W
Even thought Cleveland gives the Steelers one good game each year, they serve as both an automatic "W" and the AFCN whipping boy.
Buffalo: W
No Willis McGahee makes Buffalo look like a bunch of NFL Europe rejects
San Francisco: W
This one would be tougher outside of the friendly confines of Heinz Field, but the 49ers young defense isn't ready yet. Although I think Roethlisberger could lose the game on turnovers here. Steeler fans pray that he throws to more Black & Yellow than Red & Gold
at Arizona: W
Arizona and SF are two teams with enormous potential for upsets but the battle of the old Steelers (Wisenhunt) vs. the new Steelers (Tomlin) goes to the newbie
Seattle: L
the 4-0 start gets to Big Ben's head as he tries to do too much against a good team. Wake up guys your schedule is about to get messy.
BYE WEEK
at Denver: L
On the road in Mile High after a bye week, this becomes the war of attrition. Which QB can turn the ball over the least. The answer is Jay Cutler, but he has Champ Bailey and Dre Bly to thank for that.
at Cincinnati: L
The hits just keep on coming, in a battle of 4-2 teams, this match up defines the rest of each team's season. Cincinnati wins and uses it as motivation to close out the year, Pittsburgh loses while looking forward to Monday night against the Ravens.
Baltimore (Monday Night Football): L
Closer than you may think, but Baltimore is the new elite in the AFCN and they show why here. McGahee pounds the Steelers on the ground and the veteren Baltimore D raises questions about Ben's decision making abilities.
Cleveland: W
um, next...
at NY Jets: W
The J-E-T-S show why they were a flash in the pan last year.
Miami (Monday Night Football): W
The Porter return to Miami doesn't mean much as the Steelers roll. Showing the Dolphins that the AFC East is the second worst division in the NFL.
Cincinnati: W
Ok, just so I'm not accused of being too much of a Bengals homer... Cincy loses in Pittsburgh.
at New England: L
New England has its eyes set on another deep playoff run and they don't care that Pittsburgh is on a 4 game win streak or that Mike Tomlin really wants to win.
Jacksonville: L
Jacksonvile finishes here where they couldn't against the Steelers last year. Their defense is enough to shut down Pittsburgh's shaky new offense
at St. Louis: W
While fierce at home (*snicker*) the rams don't have an answer on defense for Willie Parker, especially in the fast dome
at Baltimore: L
Season ends in Baltimore, the Ravens crush the Steelers hopes of a 10 win first season under Mike Tomlin.
9-7 on the couch in January
at Cleveland: W
Even thought Cleveland gives the Steelers one good game each year, they serve as both an automatic "W" and the AFCN whipping boy.
Buffalo: W
No Willis McGahee makes Buffalo look like a bunch of NFL Europe rejects
San Francisco: W
This one would be tougher outside of the friendly confines of Heinz Field, but the 49ers young defense isn't ready yet. Although I think Roethlisberger could lose the game on turnovers here. Steeler fans pray that he throws to more Black & Yellow than Red & Gold
at Arizona: W
Arizona and SF are two teams with enormous potential for upsets but the battle of the old Steelers (Wisenhunt) vs. the new Steelers (Tomlin) goes to the newbie
Seattle: L
the 4-0 start gets to Big Ben's head as he tries to do too much against a good team. Wake up guys your schedule is about to get messy.
BYE WEEK
at Denver: L
On the road in Mile High after a bye week, this becomes the war of attrition. Which QB can turn the ball over the least. The answer is Jay Cutler, but he has Champ Bailey and Dre Bly to thank for that.
at Cincinnati: L
The hits just keep on coming, in a battle of 4-2 teams, this match up defines the rest of each team's season. Cincinnati wins and uses it as motivation to close out the year, Pittsburgh loses while looking forward to Monday night against the Ravens.
Baltimore (Monday Night Football): L
Closer than you may think, but Baltimore is the new elite in the AFCN and they show why here. McGahee pounds the Steelers on the ground and the veteren Baltimore D raises questions about Ben's decision making abilities.
Cleveland: W
um, next...
at NY Jets: W
The J-E-T-S show why they were a flash in the pan last year.
Miami (Monday Night Football): W
The Porter return to Miami doesn't mean much as the Steelers roll. Showing the Dolphins that the AFC East is the second worst division in the NFL.
Cincinnati: W
Ok, just so I'm not accused of being too much of a Bengals homer... Cincy loses in Pittsburgh.
at New England: L
New England has its eyes set on another deep playoff run and they don't care that Pittsburgh is on a 4 game win streak or that Mike Tomlin really wants to win.
Jacksonville: L
Jacksonvile finishes here where they couldn't against the Steelers last year. Their defense is enough to shut down Pittsburgh's shaky new offense
at St. Louis: W
While fierce at home (*snicker*) the rams don't have an answer on defense for Willie Parker, especially in the fast dome
at Baltimore: L
Season ends in Baltimore, the Ravens crush the Steelers hopes of a 10 win first season under Mike Tomlin.
9-7 on the couch in January
Sunday, July 22, 2007
My Bengals Pre-Preseason Picks
Baltimore-W
Too much adrenaline in prime time. The Ravens have to adjust to life without Adalius Thomas and with Willis McGahee. Steve McNair shows his age here.
@ Cleveland-W
Who's going to win the QB battle? No matter what they're all still losers. Could be a career day for Bengals on both sides of the ball
@ Seattle-L
West coast travel and potential for a miserable rainy game leaves the Bengals hung out to dry.
New England-L
Lets face it, New England knows how to win. Maroney ran all over the place last year and with the Pats' improvements on offense and defense, it doesn't look like a good day for the Who-Deys
@ Kansas City-W
The bye week gives Marvin a chance to pull it together. After going 2-2 the boys show their mental toughness and win a tough one on the road, showing KC it was a bad idea to get rid of Trent Green. Larry Johnson is all that separates the Bengals D from the second shut-out of the year (I'm looking at you Cleveland). I predict the defense scores more than the offense here.
Jets-W
Overrated coach shows his true colors. Bengals are on a roll and want to build momentum for the Steelers game.
Pittsburgh-W
Mike Tomlin opens up the playbook and unleashes Roethlisberger in the no-huddle which turns into no-offensive performance by the Steelers. Oh, and Ahmad Brooks and Ed Hartwell give Santonio Holmes payback across the middle.
@ Buffalo-W
I actually had to take a trip to the bills website to see who they had at RB this year, turns out that unless Lee Evans can touch the ball on every play on offense and defense, this should be and easy victory... Can you feel the chill in the air?
@ Baltimore-L
Cincinnati's 4 game winning streak ends in Baltimore. TJ gets too cocky and Chris Henry's first game back from suspension proves to be lack-luster to say the least.
Arizona-W
With Larry Fitzgerald & Anquan Boldin at his side, Matt Leinart puts on an offensive display, but the lack of a run game serves as this Trojan's Achilles Heel. Carson shows Matt a thing or two about winning.
Tennessee-L
The Bengals always find a way to lose at least one easy one. This is that game. Vince Young pulls one out of his ass for the Titans upset.
@ Pittsburgh-L
I don't want to say loss here, but Heinz Field in December. I just have a bad feeling about this game.
St. Louis-W
No speed turf+no dome+Old Torry Holt+Old Marc Bulger+Rocking Paul Brown Stadium in sub-zero temp= Bengals Win. On the bright side, Steven Jackson shows why he's a star.
@ San Francisco-W
Another prime-time game, another prime-time performance. The Bengals need every win here to stay in the playoff hunt. This year they have the leadership to right the ship.
@ Cleveland-W
Again, unless all starters are injured this should be an easy win. *Note* This game may replace Tennessee for the easy-victory loss.
@ Miami-W
Levi Jones has a vendetta, the league did not suspend Joey Porter over the mugging incident. Trent Green is getting old and with no real receivers to throw to, he's going to spend a lot of time on the grass (Ricky Williams' ears just perked up). Bengals win a big one to send them to the playoffs.
Total 11-5 and in the playoffs
Too much adrenaline in prime time. The Ravens have to adjust to life without Adalius Thomas and with Willis McGahee. Steve McNair shows his age here.
@ Cleveland-W
Who's going to win the QB battle? No matter what they're all still losers. Could be a career day for Bengals on both sides of the ball
@ Seattle-L
West coast travel and potential for a miserable rainy game leaves the Bengals hung out to dry.
New England-L
Lets face it, New England knows how to win. Maroney ran all over the place last year and with the Pats' improvements on offense and defense, it doesn't look like a good day for the Who-Deys
@ Kansas City-W
The bye week gives Marvin a chance to pull it together. After going 2-2 the boys show their mental toughness and win a tough one on the road, showing KC it was a bad idea to get rid of Trent Green. Larry Johnson is all that separates the Bengals D from the second shut-out of the year (I'm looking at you Cleveland). I predict the defense scores more than the offense here.
Jets-W
Overrated coach shows his true colors. Bengals are on a roll and want to build momentum for the Steelers game.
Pittsburgh-W
Mike Tomlin opens up the playbook and unleashes Roethlisberger in the no-huddle which turns into no-offensive performance by the Steelers. Oh, and Ahmad Brooks and Ed Hartwell give Santonio Holmes payback across the middle.
@ Buffalo-W
I actually had to take a trip to the bills website to see who they had at RB this year, turns out that unless Lee Evans can touch the ball on every play on offense and defense, this should be and easy victory... Can you feel the chill in the air?
@ Baltimore-L
Cincinnati's 4 game winning streak ends in Baltimore. TJ gets too cocky and Chris Henry's first game back from suspension proves to be lack-luster to say the least.
Arizona-W
With Larry Fitzgerald & Anquan Boldin at his side, Matt Leinart puts on an offensive display, but the lack of a run game serves as this Trojan's Achilles Heel. Carson shows Matt a thing or two about winning.
Tennessee-L
The Bengals always find a way to lose at least one easy one. This is that game. Vince Young pulls one out of his ass for the Titans upset.
@ Pittsburgh-L
I don't want to say loss here, but Heinz Field in December. I just have a bad feeling about this game.
St. Louis-W
No speed turf+no dome+Old Torry Holt+Old Marc Bulger+Rocking Paul Brown Stadium in sub-zero temp= Bengals Win. On the bright side, Steven Jackson shows why he's a star.
@ San Francisco-W
Another prime-time game, another prime-time performance. The Bengals need every win here to stay in the playoff hunt. This year they have the leadership to right the ship.
@ Cleveland-W
Again, unless all starters are injured this should be an easy win. *Note* This game may replace Tennessee for the easy-victory loss.
@ Miami-W
Levi Jones has a vendetta, the league did not suspend Joey Porter over the mugging incident. Trent Green is getting old and with no real receivers to throw to, he's going to spend a lot of time on the grass (Ricky Williams' ears just perked up). Bengals win a big one to send them to the playoffs.
Total 11-5 and in the playoffs
Friday, June 29, 2007
My Day With the Bengals
The following is an account of the events I witnessed during my trip to Cincinnati Bengals OTA (Organized Team Activities) session & stadium tour.
Understand that my day started at my house in Toledo, Ohio to make the trek to the Mecca of Bengaldom (exactly 201 miles according to Google maps). No amount of anticipation during the 2 hour and 30 minute drive could have prepared me for the day to come. My first view of Paul Brown Stadium from I-75 was breathtaking. Being a season ticket holder, I've seen PBS many times during the fall and winter months but there is something extra special when football is in the air in June. I made my way to the stadium offices and waited in the lobby where I was met by bittersweet feelings as I gazed into the display cases on the wall proudly revealing two Lamar Hunt Trophies heralding both the 1981 and 1988 seasons. Soon after, our tour guide, Andy Ware, came to whisk us away to a world that most fans never get to see.
At this point I was feeling the jubilant awe of a child's first trip to Disneyland...
Everything inside the stadium's front office seemed awesome (in the Biblical sense of the word), from the bathrooms to meeting rooms, offices to hallways… Yes, I had seen these common business essentials before in other places but this was The Cincinnati Bengals copy machine.
As we toured the stadium’s various game-viewing areas (Club Section, Press Box, Replay Booth etc.) our tour guide entertained us with interesting insider tid-bits such as where John Clayton and other ESPN celebs sit when their in town or how the room is mostly quiet during games until Geoff Hobson reacts to various on-field happenings. Right now, I’m thinking that we could end the tour; head home and all would be more than worth the journey. As practice time neared we took the mammoth elevators (Side Note: Guys like Anthony Munoz, Willie Anderson and Andrew Whitworth can’t just squeeze into your garden variety elevators, right?) down to the security station near the player’s locker room.
This, my friends, is where the magic happens.
Players trickle out of the locker room in pairs and groups. Some notes at this point: Andrew Whitworth: Man this guy is HUGE, not fat but he’s a very big boy. His upper body looks like it was whittled from one large hunk of steel and his head must be at least a size 8 or larger. This guy looks like Ivan Drago swallowed Rocky Balboa and then went back to Rocky III and ate Thunder Lips as well. He has the constant “I must break you” look. Needless to say I had to back up to take any semblance of a picture.
Leon Hall: This guy looks focused as he walks out of the tunnel and out of view. He’s got that moxie look that you want from a 1st round pick determined to do what he can to turn around a lack-luster defense. I breathe a sigh of relief.
Shayne Graham: He has a grin on his face, he’s happy to play football and ready for another day at the office. I notice that he seems to have unusually large arms for someone whose main source of income is his leg…weird.
Justin Smith: He’s walking with several other D-linemen (Geathers & Peko come to mind, among others). Regardless of your opinion of his on-field play, this guy was classy the whole day. It was refreshing to see most of the D-line walking out together eerily like Wyatt Earp & crew in Tombstone. I breathe a second (slightly larger) sigh of relief.
Carson Palmer: As I see him appear from the locker room my stomach is in my throat. I’m trembling at this point. As I fumble to grab my camera he starts to walk by… I can’t remember what happened next, I really think I blacked out for a second. The only real proof that I have of seeing Carson in that instant is a blurry off-center photo of him walking by the frame.
By now most of the player have made their way out to the practice field so we decide to head out. Following us was newly acquired veteran Linebacker Ed Hartwell who stopped just outside the gates to sign a child’s autograph before heading across the street.
Once inside the gates we see players participating in light position drills and general warm-up routines. The clicking of cleats behind me grabs my attention as Rudi Johnson heads through the gates and onto the field. He looks relaxed and surprisingly well groomed for a 228-pound, linebacker-bruising tailback. He looks like he’s ready for a night on the town not a full day of football. “He makes this look easy”, I thought. Not far behind him was Chad Johnson, lightly jogging and joking with anyone he came in contact with. As he trotted by us he flashed his charismatic gold smile and all I could think was “this is going to be fun”.
I staked out a position on the east side of the field snapping pictures of different drills I went. 300-pound o-linemen gracefully performing shuffling and footwork techniques, linebackers fielding simulated errant passes, running backs perfecting different cuts in slow motion, it wall all too much to take in. Even without pads on, these guys were larger than life. The action stopped in an instant at the sound of an air horn blast. To our left free safety, Dexter Jackson, was making his way to the group carrying the air horn. “Defensive leadership”, said, randomly, letting out my third sigh of relief.
For the next few minutes the players stretched as a team, defense on the left, offense on the right. There were few side conversations going on as players and coaches made pre-practice small talk only to be interrupted by Chad screaming “Hey JJ!” as Jeremi Johnson entered the field in a long sleeve windbreaker and winter cap. Someone standing near us told me that Jeremi has been working with the strength and conditioning coaches on a rehab plan, still, its good to see him putting in the time. The only other observation at this point is a curious little wiry offensive player with dreadlocks wearing full-length orange spandex. “Who is #18?” I asked, not knowing that would be the theme for the rest of the day. More on that later…
The horn sounds and players scramble to their next drill. On the south field the quarterbacks and Receivers work together on routes. On the north field Defensive Backs were doing drills of their own. Kyle Larson was punting on the west “turf” field while Shayne and Jeremi worked with the strength and conditioning coach. Two players stood out at this moment, Leon Hall and Keiwan Ratliff. Both have been knocked for their speed and both seemed to be moving at the same pace as everyone else throughout the course of the day.
As I turned to the south field to check out the receivers, an orange and white blip was flying through the air parallel to the ground laying out for an off target pass. “Who is #18?” I ask again, aloud, to no one in particular as this mysterious stocky, dreadlocked receiver made his way back to the end of the line amid congratulatory high-fives. As the next horn sounded Carson and Chad didn’t quite connect on a pass. This prompted Carson to sprint out to Chad. I need to tell you this was and unforgettable moment. Carson Palmer showing Chad Johnson how to run his route correctly. Carson mimicked the moves needed to properly time the route in an awkward fish-out-of-water fashion. Don’t get me wrong, I think Carson Palmer is an amazing athlete, but his “quarterback coordination” is different than Chad’s “wide receiver coordination”… very different.
Just when I thought things couldn’t get any better, we were witness to the WR/DB 1 on 1 drills.
Leon Hall vs. Chad Johnson: Chad juked off the line leaving Hall stumbling out of the blocks. Chad made a hard fake right about 5-7 yards down the field and then cut left to the middle of the field (poetry in motion) then out of nowhere our rookie 1st round pick recovered to punch the ball away leaving Chad frustrated and the rest of us on the defensive sideline amazed.
Skyler Green vs. Marvin White: Finally someone shouts the name “Green” and the mystery of #18 is solved. According to the roster on the team’s official website Green stands 5’9” (maybe counting his helmet and cleats) 190 pounds (maybe with pads on) and White stands 6’1” 199 (an undersized estimate if you ask me). White towers over Green and looks like he’s going to be a bruiser once he finally sees some live snaps. Green, on the other hand, takes off from the line of scrimmage (I swear his hair makes him look faster) cuts to the middle and back to the outside leaving White chewing on grass, burnt biting on the first move. That play caused a commotion on the sidelines and left me repeating the question of the day, “who is #18?” One other note from that drill: I know Gregg Guenther is 6’-8” so this may seem like an obvious statement but he is one tall dude. Come to think of it, so is Carson Palmer.
The horn sounded and I caught my first glimpse of Marvin Lewis talking with ESPN’s Chris Mortensen and Cincinnati native, Tom Jackson. This is also where we were introduced to, Bengals.com editor, Geoff Hobson. I must have missed the memo on Hawaiian shirt day since Hobson, Jackson and Mortensen were all sporting tropical threads… I digress… Some further pleasantries were exchanged between our group and some of the Bengals front office staff watching the various drills. This continued until the horn sounded yet again and we made our way to the north side of the practice area to observe the full 11 on 11 drills. A couple of things caught my eye:
Rudi Johnson: Not much to do for a running back during non-contact drills. He caught a few passes but not much else. Good… rest those legs Rudi; you’ll see plenty of action over the next 6-8 months.
Ed Hartwell & Dexter Jackson: Looks like Hartwell’s going to be an intimidating force at linebacker. Combine him with Dexter Jackson and you have a great mix of veteran leadership on defense. These two were talking and mixing it up with the offense the entire time. Skyler Green caught a ball over the middle and Hartwell gave him a two-hand tap and a loudly yelled “BOOM!” as if to indicate that, with pads on, there would be a much different result to that play. These two seemed to be on a mission to rewrite public opinion of the Bengals defense.
Marvin Lewis: Throughout most of practice I noticed Marvin on the outskirts watch carefully, allowing his assistant coaches to do their work. Every once and a while he would call a player over, at times he would issue a public reprimand or praise. There was a silent leadership present at all times, it was almost like the entire practice field itself responded to coach Lewis’ every move.
Carson Palmer: He looks great. Not spectacular. Not trying to set the world on fire. His throws were on target, he’s moving well. Very fluid. Here is a man who realizes that this is the beginning of June and the season is a marathon not a sprint. He’s got a swagger folks…
Practice concluded with the punt team and then another group stretch. At this time some local school kids were filing in to the outside of the field. As the players were gathered around Marvin for a quick group talk I the opportunity to get a few photos with Tom Jackson and Chris Mortensen. After the group broke away, players spent a few minutes signing autographs as the press zeroed in on Marvin. On the way off the field, players took the time to take pictures and sign autographs for just about everyone who asked. We trailed behind the pack of players to catch Marvin Lewis and Dexter Jackson posing for pictures with the few stragglers waiting outside the gates.
We walked back down the tunnel to lunch and continued our tour of the inner workings of the stadium. The experience was amazing, the players, administration and coaches were very courteous and welcoming. Even now I am still amazed at the events of the day and I can’t wait to see the Orange and Black take the field Monday night. After witnessing all that happened during practice and afterwards I am convinced that we have a team committed to winning for the community. There’s a new attitude in Cincinnati.
Who Dey
Understand that my day started at my house in Toledo, Ohio to make the trek to the Mecca of Bengaldom (exactly 201 miles according to Google maps). No amount of anticipation during the 2 hour and 30 minute drive could have prepared me for the day to come. My first view of Paul Brown Stadium from I-75 was breathtaking. Being a season ticket holder, I've seen PBS many times during the fall and winter months but there is something extra special when football is in the air in June. I made my way to the stadium offices and waited in the lobby where I was met by bittersweet feelings as I gazed into the display cases on the wall proudly revealing two Lamar Hunt Trophies heralding both the 1981 and 1988 seasons. Soon after, our tour guide, Andy Ware, came to whisk us away to a world that most fans never get to see.
At this point I was feeling the jubilant awe of a child's first trip to Disneyland...
Everything inside the stadium's front office seemed awesome (in the Biblical sense of the word), from the bathrooms to meeting rooms, offices to hallways… Yes, I had seen these common business essentials before in other places but this was The Cincinnati Bengals copy machine.
As we toured the stadium’s various game-viewing areas (Club Section, Press Box, Replay Booth etc.) our tour guide entertained us with interesting insider tid-bits such as where John Clayton and other ESPN celebs sit when their in town or how the room is mostly quiet during games until Geoff Hobson reacts to various on-field happenings. Right now, I’m thinking that we could end the tour; head home and all would be more than worth the journey. As practice time neared we took the mammoth elevators (Side Note: Guys like Anthony Munoz, Willie Anderson and Andrew Whitworth can’t just squeeze into your garden variety elevators, right?) down to the security station near the player’s locker room.
This, my friends, is where the magic happens.
Players trickle out of the locker room in pairs and groups. Some notes at this point: Andrew Whitworth: Man this guy is HUGE, not fat but he’s a very big boy. His upper body looks like it was whittled from one large hunk of steel and his head must be at least a size 8 or larger. This guy looks like Ivan Drago swallowed Rocky Balboa and then went back to Rocky III and ate Thunder Lips as well. He has the constant “I must break you” look. Needless to say I had to back up to take any semblance of a picture.
Leon Hall: This guy looks focused as he walks out of the tunnel and out of view. He’s got that moxie look that you want from a 1st round pick determined to do what he can to turn around a lack-luster defense. I breathe a sigh of relief.
Shayne Graham: He has a grin on his face, he’s happy to play football and ready for another day at the office. I notice that he seems to have unusually large arms for someone whose main source of income is his leg…weird.
Justin Smith: He’s walking with several other D-linemen (Geathers & Peko come to mind, among others). Regardless of your opinion of his on-field play, this guy was classy the whole day. It was refreshing to see most of the D-line walking out together eerily like Wyatt Earp & crew in Tombstone. I breathe a second (slightly larger) sigh of relief.
Carson Palmer: As I see him appear from the locker room my stomach is in my throat. I’m trembling at this point. As I fumble to grab my camera he starts to walk by… I can’t remember what happened next, I really think I blacked out for a second. The only real proof that I have of seeing Carson in that instant is a blurry off-center photo of him walking by the frame.
By now most of the player have made their way out to the practice field so we decide to head out. Following us was newly acquired veteran Linebacker Ed Hartwell who stopped just outside the gates to sign a child’s autograph before heading across the street.
Once inside the gates we see players participating in light position drills and general warm-up routines. The clicking of cleats behind me grabs my attention as Rudi Johnson heads through the gates and onto the field. He looks relaxed and surprisingly well groomed for a 228-pound, linebacker-bruising tailback. He looks like he’s ready for a night on the town not a full day of football. “He makes this look easy”, I thought. Not far behind him was Chad Johnson, lightly jogging and joking with anyone he came in contact with. As he trotted by us he flashed his charismatic gold smile and all I could think was “this is going to be fun”.
I staked out a position on the east side of the field snapping pictures of different drills I went. 300-pound o-linemen gracefully performing shuffling and footwork techniques, linebackers fielding simulated errant passes, running backs perfecting different cuts in slow motion, it wall all too much to take in. Even without pads on, these guys were larger than life. The action stopped in an instant at the sound of an air horn blast. To our left free safety, Dexter Jackson, was making his way to the group carrying the air horn. “Defensive leadership”, said, randomly, letting out my third sigh of relief.
For the next few minutes the players stretched as a team, defense on the left, offense on the right. There were few side conversations going on as players and coaches made pre-practice small talk only to be interrupted by Chad screaming “Hey JJ!” as Jeremi Johnson entered the field in a long sleeve windbreaker and winter cap. Someone standing near us told me that Jeremi has been working with the strength and conditioning coaches on a rehab plan, still, its good to see him putting in the time. The only other observation at this point is a curious little wiry offensive player with dreadlocks wearing full-length orange spandex. “Who is #18?” I asked, not knowing that would be the theme for the rest of the day. More on that later…
The horn sounds and players scramble to their next drill. On the south field the quarterbacks and Receivers work together on routes. On the north field Defensive Backs were doing drills of their own. Kyle Larson was punting on the west “turf” field while Shayne and Jeremi worked with the strength and conditioning coach. Two players stood out at this moment, Leon Hall and Keiwan Ratliff. Both have been knocked for their speed and both seemed to be moving at the same pace as everyone else throughout the course of the day.
As I turned to the south field to check out the receivers, an orange and white blip was flying through the air parallel to the ground laying out for an off target pass. “Who is #18?” I ask again, aloud, to no one in particular as this mysterious stocky, dreadlocked receiver made his way back to the end of the line amid congratulatory high-fives. As the next horn sounded Carson and Chad didn’t quite connect on a pass. This prompted Carson to sprint out to Chad. I need to tell you this was and unforgettable moment. Carson Palmer showing Chad Johnson how to run his route correctly. Carson mimicked the moves needed to properly time the route in an awkward fish-out-of-water fashion. Don’t get me wrong, I think Carson Palmer is an amazing athlete, but his “quarterback coordination” is different than Chad’s “wide receiver coordination”… very different.
Just when I thought things couldn’t get any better, we were witness to the WR/DB 1 on 1 drills.
Leon Hall vs. Chad Johnson: Chad juked off the line leaving Hall stumbling out of the blocks. Chad made a hard fake right about 5-7 yards down the field and then cut left to the middle of the field (poetry in motion) then out of nowhere our rookie 1st round pick recovered to punch the ball away leaving Chad frustrated and the rest of us on the defensive sideline amazed.
Skyler Green vs. Marvin White: Finally someone shouts the name “Green” and the mystery of #18 is solved. According to the roster on the team’s official website Green stands 5’9” (maybe counting his helmet and cleats) 190 pounds (maybe with pads on) and White stands 6’1” 199 (an undersized estimate if you ask me). White towers over Green and looks like he’s going to be a bruiser once he finally sees some live snaps. Green, on the other hand, takes off from the line of scrimmage (I swear his hair makes him look faster) cuts to the middle and back to the outside leaving White chewing on grass, burnt biting on the first move. That play caused a commotion on the sidelines and left me repeating the question of the day, “who is #18?” One other note from that drill: I know Gregg Guenther is 6’-8” so this may seem like an obvious statement but he is one tall dude. Come to think of it, so is Carson Palmer.
The horn sounded and I caught my first glimpse of Marvin Lewis talking with ESPN’s Chris Mortensen and Cincinnati native, Tom Jackson. This is also where we were introduced to, Bengals.com editor, Geoff Hobson. I must have missed the memo on Hawaiian shirt day since Hobson, Jackson and Mortensen were all sporting tropical threads… I digress… Some further pleasantries were exchanged between our group and some of the Bengals front office staff watching the various drills. This continued until the horn sounded yet again and we made our way to the north side of the practice area to observe the full 11 on 11 drills. A couple of things caught my eye:
Rudi Johnson: Not much to do for a running back during non-contact drills. He caught a few passes but not much else. Good… rest those legs Rudi; you’ll see plenty of action over the next 6-8 months.
Ed Hartwell & Dexter Jackson: Looks like Hartwell’s going to be an intimidating force at linebacker. Combine him with Dexter Jackson and you have a great mix of veteran leadership on defense. These two were talking and mixing it up with the offense the entire time. Skyler Green caught a ball over the middle and Hartwell gave him a two-hand tap and a loudly yelled “BOOM!” as if to indicate that, with pads on, there would be a much different result to that play. These two seemed to be on a mission to rewrite public opinion of the Bengals defense.
Marvin Lewis: Throughout most of practice I noticed Marvin on the outskirts watch carefully, allowing his assistant coaches to do their work. Every once and a while he would call a player over, at times he would issue a public reprimand or praise. There was a silent leadership present at all times, it was almost like the entire practice field itself responded to coach Lewis’ every move.
Carson Palmer: He looks great. Not spectacular. Not trying to set the world on fire. His throws were on target, he’s moving well. Very fluid. Here is a man who realizes that this is the beginning of June and the season is a marathon not a sprint. He’s got a swagger folks…
Practice concluded with the punt team and then another group stretch. At this time some local school kids were filing in to the outside of the field. As the players were gathered around Marvin for a quick group talk I the opportunity to get a few photos with Tom Jackson and Chris Mortensen. After the group broke away, players spent a few minutes signing autographs as the press zeroed in on Marvin. On the way off the field, players took the time to take pictures and sign autographs for just about everyone who asked. We trailed behind the pack of players to catch Marvin Lewis and Dexter Jackson posing for pictures with the few stragglers waiting outside the gates.
We walked back down the tunnel to lunch and continued our tour of the inner workings of the stadium. The experience was amazing, the players, administration and coaches were very courteous and welcoming. Even now I am still amazed at the events of the day and I can’t wait to see the Orange and Black take the field Monday night. After witnessing all that happened during practice and afterwards I am convinced that we have a team committed to winning for the community. There’s a new attitude in Cincinnati.
Who Dey
Thursday, June 28, 2007
Another Reason Why Women Confuse Me
Ladies, imagine overhearing your boyfriend/husband/significant other on the phone with someone else and it sounds something like this:
"Honey why you calling me so late? It's kinda hard to talk right now.
Honey why are you crying? Is everything okay? I gotta whisper 'cause I
can't be too loud.
Well, my girl's in the next room. Sometimes I wish she was you.
I guess we never really moved on.
It's really good to hear your voice say my name, it sounds so sweet.
Coming from the lips of an angel, hearing those words it makes me weak.
And I never wanna say goodbye but girl you make it hard to be faithful, with the
lips of an angel.
It's funny that you're calling me tonight and, yes, I've dreamt of you too.
And does he know you're talking to me? Will it start a fight? No I don't think
she has a clue.
Well my girl's in the next room. Sometimes I wish she was you. I
guess we never really moved on. It's really good to hear your voice say my
name, it sounds so sweet. Coming from the lips of an angel, hearing those
words it makes me weak. And I never wanna say goodbye, but girl you make
it hard to be faithful, with the lips of an angel.
It's really good to hear your voice say my name, it sounds so sweet.
Coming from the lips of an angel, hearing those words it makes me weak.
And I never wanna say goodbye but girl you make it hard to be faithful, with the
lips of an angel."
What would you think? Other than the obvious: "Why is he conducting a conversation verse-chorus-verse-chorus-chorus format?" Would you be happy? Of course not. But if you hear something like this on the radio from a band called Hinder then you'd go nuts for a song like this. While I have to admit (even if it questions my masculinity) that the chorus is catchy, but it presents yet another reason why women confuse the heck out of me. Why do you like this song? Here's the scenario: this song comes on at work, all women between the ages 14-30 within earshot begin cooing and gasping in an effort to display their fondness for this song.
WHY?
This song is about a guy cheating on his significant other with his ex. Why on earth do women like this song? I guess its the same reason that Crazy B**ch is so popular as well as the thousands of rap songs that objectify women.
Respect yourself women. Oh, and please read Rob Bell's new book Sex God, it has awesome insights on the undeniable link between sexuality & spirituality.
"Honey why you calling me so late? It's kinda hard to talk right now.
Honey why are you crying? Is everything okay? I gotta whisper 'cause I
can't be too loud.
Well, my girl's in the next room. Sometimes I wish she was you.
I guess we never really moved on.
It's really good to hear your voice say my name, it sounds so sweet.
Coming from the lips of an angel, hearing those words it makes me weak.
And I never wanna say goodbye but girl you make it hard to be faithful, with the
lips of an angel.
It's funny that you're calling me tonight and, yes, I've dreamt of you too.
And does he know you're talking to me? Will it start a fight? No I don't think
she has a clue.
Well my girl's in the next room. Sometimes I wish she was you. I
guess we never really moved on. It's really good to hear your voice say my
name, it sounds so sweet. Coming from the lips of an angel, hearing those
words it makes me weak. And I never wanna say goodbye, but girl you make
it hard to be faithful, with the lips of an angel.
It's really good to hear your voice say my name, it sounds so sweet.
Coming from the lips of an angel, hearing those words it makes me weak.
And I never wanna say goodbye but girl you make it hard to be faithful, with the
lips of an angel."
What would you think? Other than the obvious: "Why is he conducting a conversation verse-chorus-verse-chorus-chorus format?" Would you be happy? Of course not. But if you hear something like this on the radio from a band called Hinder then you'd go nuts for a song like this. While I have to admit (even if it questions my masculinity) that the chorus is catchy, but it presents yet another reason why women confuse the heck out of me. Why do you like this song? Here's the scenario: this song comes on at work, all women between the ages 14-30 within earshot begin cooing and gasping in an effort to display their fondness for this song.
WHY?
This song is about a guy cheating on his significant other with his ex. Why on earth do women like this song? I guess its the same reason that Crazy B**ch is so popular as well as the thousands of rap songs that objectify women.
Respect yourself women. Oh, and please read Rob Bell's new book Sex God, it has awesome insights on the undeniable link between sexuality & spirituality.
Friday, May 4, 2007
On Notice
Who's been "On Notice" this week?
First off, "your mom" is not only the best, most classic comeback of all time, its also very easy to use....(must...resist..."your mom" reference here)...
What's up with people who die and get really large tombstones? I'm not talking about the "I need a big tombstone so I can fit my whole polish last name on it" tombstone. I mean those gigantic obelisks that eclipse everything else in the whole cemetery... You're dead, nobody probably liked you when you were alive and instead of giving that money to charity or to your ungrateful next-of-kin, you decided to waste your dough on a functionless sundial...
Adam "Pacman" Jones... So this is the guy who was involved in a triple shooting in a Las Vegas strip-club, was suspended from the NFL for the entire 2007 season for his role in at least 9 incidents since he was drafted in 2005. Now he's being punished for his actions so you say lets forgive and forget, right? WRONG, now this loser is appealing his suspension, further proving he doesn't get it and he hasn't learned from his mistakes (not that he hasn't had at least 9 opportunities).
Copycat Police Dramas just tick me off and it all started with Law & Order. Now, the producers of said show couldn't stop with just one.... nooooo, the had to keep making more (Special Victims Unit, Criminal Intent, Trial By Jury). When will the madness stop. Now we have all kinds of "legal" & "police procedural" dramas that all look the same, give or take a psychic, a genius mathematician, a cheeky lawyer, an overly dramatic CSI Head Investigator Lieutenant (I'm looking your way Horatio), a quirky computer geek or whatever else you want to "add" to the show to make it "different" from all of the rest.
Men who drink appletinis, you know who you are... just because they "taste good" doesn't mean that you can still be considered a man while drinking one (and especially not in public). Man Law: Any man who witnesses another man ordering an Appletini is required to pour said drink in the lap of the man who ordered it once it arrives. No other explanation is necessary, if you feel words need to be said to break the following awkward silence a firm "you're welcome" is acceptable.
Girls with mustaches: gross... just gross...*next*
"Business Casual": You're just opening up a Pandora's box here... where do we draw the line? How about the gaudy Hawaiian shirts? What about those faux-khaki's that have the zip off bottoms to make shorts? Do you really want to see what that guy from accounting looks like in shorts?
Mouth Breathers: I just love that eerie semi-wheezing sound, part death rattle, part snore.
Saturday, April 14, 2007
A Real Sinner
The Dante's Inferno Test has banished you to the Second Level of Hell!
Here is how you matched up against all the levels:
Take the Dante's Divine Comedy Inferno Test
I took this test on a whim but I guess its a good idea for those of us "hypothetical sinners". Of course, my first reaction was to say "wow at least I'm not gluttonous, prodigal, avaricious or a heretic" (whatever the heck all of that means). I guess when I think I'm doing pretty good at this "Christian living" thing, I need to remember that I still have a long way to go.
Here is how you matched up against all the levels:
| Level | Score |
|---|---|
| Purgatory (Repenting Believers) | High |
| Level 1 - Limbo (Virtuous Non-Believers) | Very Low |
| Level 2 (Lustful) | Very High |
| Level 3 (Gluttonous) | Low |
| Level 4 (Prodigal and Avaricious) | Low |
| Level 5 (Wrathful and Gloomy) | High |
| Level 6 - The City of Dis (Heretics) | Very Low |
| Level 7 (Violent) | Very High |
| Level 8- the Malebolge (Fraudulent, Malicious, Panderers) | High |
| Level 9 - Cocytus (Treacherous) | High |
Take the Dante's Divine Comedy Inferno Test
I took this test on a whim but I guess its a good idea for those of us "hypothetical sinners". Of course, my first reaction was to say "wow at least I'm not gluttonous, prodigal, avaricious or a heretic" (whatever the heck all of that means). I guess when I think I'm doing pretty good at this "Christian living" thing, I need to remember that I still have a long way to go.
Tuesday, March 20, 2007
Throwing Stones
I have been really thinking about this subject lately, in fact it was the topic of my rant in the most recent episode of Element: C3, which, if you haven't heard it yet, you should. Its awesome...
Anyway, I've been really struggling with this idea of people who throw stones and run away.
What I mean to say is, these people who are all about dominating you with their belief and wanting nothing to do with what anyone else has to say. I fall victim to their trap all the time, the stone thrower is looking for you to engage him (or her) in conversation so they can continue to play the broken record over and over, trying to convince you that you're wrong.
I really respect Rob Bell's response to criticisms that he's received from various people over his views on Christianity:
"There will always be Pharisees. God's on the lookout for disciples" I think that's awesome... Am I using religion as a crutch or am I using it as a powerful tool to discover the deeper meaning of life with others and within the teachings of Christ?
Anyway, I've been really struggling with this idea of people who throw stones and run away.
What I mean to say is, these people who are all about dominating you with their belief and wanting nothing to do with what anyone else has to say. I fall victim to their trap all the time, the stone thrower is looking for you to engage him (or her) in conversation so they can continue to play the broken record over and over, trying to convince you that you're wrong.
I really respect Rob Bell's response to criticisms that he's received from various people over his views on Christianity:
"Some people, no matter what you say, have a hardness of heart and aren’t going to change. Please be very, very careful who you engage with. Some people simply have questions, and simply want to discuss. Wonderful. But some people are miserable, and they use religion as a crutch to avoid dealing with their misery and their pain. And what gets masqueraded as Christian faith is not. And we need to be careful spending all sorts of energy engaging with people who don’t have any interest in coming along on the journey with us. I would ask you before you engage - and there’s nothing wrong with engaging - to perhaps ask, “Could I redirect the energy I’m about to spend towards somebody who’s never, ever heard that God loves them?” And let us be the kind of community who engages in the right kinds of discussions, but otherwise we’re too busy loving people with the transforming love of Christ to engage in the mudslinging that goes on. You are too valuable to me, and your time and your energy, you’re too valuable in our community to end up in some sort of theological kung-fu with somebody who ultimately thinks they’re right. There will always be Pharisees. God’s on the lookout for disciples.”
"There will always be Pharisees. God's on the lookout for disciples" I think that's awesome... Am I using religion as a crutch or am I using it as a powerful tool to discover the deeper meaning of life with others and within the teachings of Christ?
Thursday, March 15, 2007
Its madness...MARCH MADNESS!!
SO its that time of year again and I've made my picks for the big dance, you can view them here. Tell me what you think, am I out of my mind for picking Texas A&M over OSU? I don't think so... Take THAT Thad...
Also, make sure you check out Element: C3, (iTunes) (Online) an exciting project started by my co-conspirator Jered, and I. As always you can find my mobile phone blog here.
Wednesday, March 14, 2007
Morally Awake
So there's this new study (link) saying that sleep deprivation may lead to a lack of moral fortitude. Basically a bunch of otherwise healthy soldiers were asked a series of questions ranging from simple situations to challenging moral dilemmas with the options "appropriate" or "inappropriate". Their answers were logged and they were then sleep deprived (kept awake) for 53 hours (a little more than 2 days) straight. The volunteers were then asked the same questions again, this time the morally challenging questions took longer for them to answer and in some cases their answers reflected a wavering from their previous answers.
Interesting...
Reading further I found out that those volunteers who scored high in morality when polled before the deprivation did not waiver on what they found morally appropriate.
What does this say about our sense of morality? People who have strong morals to begin with are more likely to stick to their guns under pressure. Could we expand that to show the importance of parenting? Will people who are raised with a strong moral conviction be more likely to stick to it later in life? Less likely to fall victim to peer pressure? I don't know...
Interesting...
Reading further I found out that those volunteers who scored high in morality when polled before the deprivation did not waiver on what they found morally appropriate.
What does this say about our sense of morality? People who have strong morals to begin with are more likely to stick to their guns under pressure. Could we expand that to show the importance of parenting? Will people who are raised with a strong moral conviction be more likely to stick to it later in life? Less likely to fall victim to peer pressure? I don't know...
Saturday, March 3, 2007
1/4 of the way through nothing
10 days ago I started a spending fast for lent (link). After almost one quarter of the way through, I've run the gambit of emotions...
Day 1: The sound of the Pepsi machine outside my door is borderline unbearable. I work in a place where kids are around all of the time. Why God, why do those little brats have so much money? And why do they insist on buying beverages every 5 minutes? (first emotion, anger) This continues until I leave around 5pm.
Once I got home I see that my last pre-fast ebay purchase has arrived Atmosfear the DVD board game... I am overjoyed and all is right with the world (second emotion joy & hope).
Day 2: First off, I was late to work because of an alarm clock malfunction and that didn't make the Pepsi machine situation any better... this time the torture is compounded by the fact that I did not bring anything for lunch and I have made this stupid pact to not buy fast-food for myself... (anger & remorse) But the thought or driving to the local grocery store to buy cold cuts and bread seems to be too labor intensive (now the depression sets in).
Day 3: Its Friday, the work life gets easier since my wanton desire to purchase a Code Red Mt. Dew (pause for amorous reflection and drooling...cue Wayne's World "Dream Weaver" sequence) was subsided by the ammount of free food available at work today (manna from heaven as far as I'm concerned)
Later we hit up a wine tasting at Vino 100 which is ok since its a group event. I did resist the urge to buy a bottle of wine and Burger King, opting instead to make myself a sandwich at home...but those french fries did smell good (jealousy setting in, and maybe a hint of covetousness).
Next, the group heads out to see the Number 23, I had movie passes so no purchases were made.
Days 4 & 5: Jered, being the great and supportive friend that he is, tempts me several times by telling my how many cool things are going on sale at his store later this month. What a pal... (Sarcasm...is that even an emotion?)
Day 6: Lunch is no problem and neither is my beloved Code Red. I brought a friend down to work and she offered to buy me both! (Sweet!). Slowly I realize that a totally unplanned, but, awesome side-effect of not buying anything new is an increase in charity from other people... nice.
I also rented a video game... I didn't get the same satisfying feeling as I do when I buy a video game...
Day 7: I slipped... I was STARVING (not literally but I was in pain) so I went against my better judgement and bought myself Taco Bell (Guilt)... it wouldn't be right for me not to admit where I messed up... I feel like I've betrayed Jesus (more guilt), I should just stop this stupid fast anyway, besides I can still hold to my annual fast of WNBA and Women's College Basketball (justification, not an emotion but still...).
At our weekly Bible Study (held at Max & Erma's, but hey its bible study so its ok) I decide to get back on the horse and continue my shopping fast. To my surprise I've only browsed ebay twice in the past week and it was only because of Satan's tempting (really it was Jered, but close enough) me into looking up prices for a hookah. (don't ask...)
Day 8: Another Thursday goes by and there are more kids that mock me with every beverage purchase, but this time I am busy with work so their attempts go virtually unnoticed. (Side note: Abby rewards my spending freeze by making AWESOME dinners for me...except for the one batch of mashed potatoes that tasted like plastic...but the rest of it was awesome)
Day 9: Jered will not stop singing I'm So Ronery from Team America: World Police. I am so tempted to click the "buy it" button on iTunes, but I resist...for now (jerk) Another wine tasting... and this time I bought wine, which by now is an essential.... but maybe not 3 bottles....
Today is day 10 : I'm really starting to get a grasp on the extremes of my desire to be an uberconsumer. Now, I'm not saying that I'm cured or that I have come to some great revelation. I am still trying to figure this all out, but I know this much, I have a long way to go...
Day 1: The sound of the Pepsi machine outside my door is borderline unbearable. I work in a place where kids are around all of the time. Why God, why do those little brats have so much money? And why do they insist on buying beverages every 5 minutes? (first emotion, anger) This continues until I leave around 5pm.
Once I got home I see that my last pre-fast ebay purchase has arrived Atmosfear the DVD board game... I am overjoyed and all is right with the world (second emotion joy & hope).
Day 2: First off, I was late to work because of an alarm clock malfunction and that didn't make the Pepsi machine situation any better... this time the torture is compounded by the fact that I did not bring anything for lunch and I have made this stupid pact to not buy fast-food for myself... (anger & remorse) But the thought or driving to the local grocery store to buy cold cuts and bread seems to be too labor intensive (now the depression sets in).
Day 3: Its Friday, the work life gets easier since my wanton desire to purchase a Code Red Mt. Dew (pause for amorous reflection and drooling...cue Wayne's World "Dream Weaver" sequence) was subsided by the ammount of free food available at work today (manna from heaven as far as I'm concerned)
Later we hit up a wine tasting at Vino 100 which is ok since its a group event. I did resist the urge to buy a bottle of wine and Burger King, opting instead to make myself a sandwich at home...but those french fries did smell good (jealousy setting in, and maybe a hint of covetousness).
Next, the group heads out to see the Number 23, I had movie passes so no purchases were made.
Days 4 & 5: Jered, being the great and supportive friend that he is, tempts me several times by telling my how many cool things are going on sale at his store later this month. What a pal... (Sarcasm...is that even an emotion?)
Day 6: Lunch is no problem and neither is my beloved Code Red. I brought a friend down to work and she offered to buy me both! (Sweet!). Slowly I realize that a totally unplanned, but, awesome side-effect of not buying anything new is an increase in charity from other people... nice.
I also rented a video game... I didn't get the same satisfying feeling as I do when I buy a video game...
Day 7: I slipped... I was STARVING (not literally but I was in pain) so I went against my better judgement and bought myself Taco Bell (Guilt)... it wouldn't be right for me not to admit where I messed up... I feel like I've betrayed Jesus (more guilt), I should just stop this stupid fast anyway, besides I can still hold to my annual fast of WNBA and Women's College Basketball (justification, not an emotion but still...).
At our weekly Bible Study (held at Max & Erma's, but hey its bible study so its ok) I decide to get back on the horse and continue my shopping fast. To my surprise I've only browsed ebay twice in the past week and it was only because of Satan's tempting (really it was Jered, but close enough) me into looking up prices for a hookah. (don't ask...)
Day 8: Another Thursday goes by and there are more kids that mock me with every beverage purchase, but this time I am busy with work so their attempts go virtually unnoticed. (Side note: Abby rewards my spending freeze by making AWESOME dinners for me...except for the one batch of mashed potatoes that tasted like plastic...but the rest of it was awesome)
Day 9: Jered will not stop singing I'm So Ronery from Team America: World Police. I am so tempted to click the "buy it" button on iTunes, but I resist...for now (jerk) Another wine tasting... and this time I bought wine, which by now is an essential.... but maybe not 3 bottles....
Today is day 10 : I'm really starting to get a grasp on the extremes of my desire to be an uberconsumer. Now, I'm not saying that I'm cured or that I have come to some great revelation. I am still trying to figure this all out, but I know this much, I have a long way to go...
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