God bless the people of every nation.

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CNN Presents, George Bush in World War II --yesterday's program. It showed America's 41st president returning to where he was shot down 59 years ago near the Japanese island of ChiChi Jima—an island where several U.S. pilots had been captured or killed during the war. It spoke of Bush's rescue by a U.S. Submarine and the death of the rest of his crewmen who did not make it out of the plane. Although Bush believes that he acted correctly and gave the right order to parachute from the plane, he does mourn the loss of his crewmembers. Bush stated that this experience at age 18 made him more aware of the costs of sending other people's son and daughters to war during his presidency.

The issue this program raised for me came when the past president spoke of reconciliation between himself and the Japanese. During Bush's presidency, the Japanese Emperor Hirohito died. Many in the American government would not go to his funeral because of his past involvement in the war. Bush decided to attend the funeral and spoke not about the past, but the future. It was an act of reconciliation towards Japan. Now, years later, as Bush approached the Island of ChiChi Jima, he placed wreaths in the ocean in remembrance of his lost crew members, and was greeted by Japanese soldiers. Welcomed on to the island, Bush was allowed to raise a ceremonial America flag, and was saluted by a Japanese Admiral--someone who was once considered an enemy. A powerful picture of what Memorial Day means to me.

Memorial Day is more than raising a flag and flying it half-mast. It is more than a moment of silence in remembrance of American soldiers. It is these things, but it is also more. It is more than wearing patriotic clothing, or, knowing all the words to and singing My Country Tis of Thee and God Bless America.

I am hesitant about holidays and events that focus too much on America and Americans. I feel like we are too close to cutting ourselves off from the rest of the world. God Bless America, and forget about the rest of you. Or, in remembrance of past or present battles, letting hatred for other countries--they killed our troops--surface. It is not that I do not support the American military, or that I do not see good in asking God to bless our country. My concern is when this is carried too far. To focus so much on America and our losses that we forget that others have been lost as well. Others who are not American. What do we do to remember these?

What do we use Memorial Day for? Is it a day to rebuild our pride and puff ourselves up, or, a day to work towards reconciliation between countries that we have been fighting either with weapons or language/politically? Do we remember our soldiers only, or those they fought against as well? As a Christian, I think this includes the enemies as well as those we love; enemies of the past or present. Memorial day should be a day of reconciliation as well as remembrance.


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new posts at new location

Most of my new posts are on the new blog, so if you're wanting new posts look there.

Don't change your bookmarks so fast

I'm still not sure about the switch over so don't go and change all your links and such. I guess I just don't know how much blogging is really worth to me. 10 dollers a month, 15 dollers a month, free... What am I really promoting here anyway? Blogging is one of those things that I enjoy doing, so, I put a lot of effort into posts. Yet, no one leaves comments so it's as if I'm rambling off into thin air. OK, so maybe there are 2 people who comment. 1 almost regularly and the other changes from whoever happens upon the blog in a given week. Would anyone really care if I suddenly stopped posting? No, I'm not going to write this elaborate post about how blogging has taken over my life and inhibited real conversations. I'm not going to tell you that I suddenly don't see the value in blogging and that I am quiting it forever--erasing my site and past site. I'm not going to reinstate my political posts just for the sake of comments either. And, no, I'm not going to claim to do something so outrageous as put dreadlocks in my hair either. Although, sometimes that seems to be the only way to get comments out of people.

Possibly making a site change...

So, I've gone and registered with Typepad.com...

Check out the new site and tell me what you think.

Beyond Ordination: Hindrance and Support of Female Clergy in the PC (USA)

Inspired by some conversations at seminary last semester, and upon reading this blog of another female seminarian, I've decided to raise some of my own questions and use this blog as a means of gathering input on the issue.

Women in ministry.

So, it's no big news that women are in ministry. Most denominations recognize women as leaders within the church. Women are even preachers in some denominations. However, the growth of women clergy in the Presbyterian Church (USA), and other denominations, does not mean that the traditional view that men make better clergy has vanished. In my Research Methods class at Austin College, I addressed this issue by writing a proposal for a study I would do if I had the funding and resources. It addressed the concern of the treatment of women clergy throughout their journey towards becoming a minister, their years as ministers, and if they feel supported in their choice of vocation from their friends, family, and church body. I still feel like this is a valuable study and would pursue it if at all possible.

The study looks specifically for hindrances that women clergy have encountered. Do they experience hindrances in ministry beyond the common clerical hindrances, mainly in the area of gender prejudice/conflict stemming from the traditional roles of women, family issues in the area of home and career and the need to balance these or set priorities, and overcoming the tradition that religious leadership is reserved for males? Are there hindrances by the church to start the process of becoming a minister? Do they encounter problems in seminary, finding a church, life in the church? Do they feel like women are encouraged to take part in church leadership? I am interested in specific instances of hindrances and what kind of support the women received—how she was supported, if at all, by her family and congregation.

Other issues would be how men view women clergy and how women react in situations of conflict verses how men do and whether this is a gender issue or personality issue at the core. The list could go on. It's a large and involved issue--and controversial for some.

Basing the study in the Presbyterian Church (USA) many would think this study obsolete, but I would disagree. Yes, the numbers of women clergy are increasing and the numbers of females entering seminaries are increasing, but this does not eliminate past hesitance towards female clergy. Hidden prejudices may exist towards women in ministry even in those that would say they are for women’s ordination. This study would not only pertain to the PC (USA) because it is good for all to be educated on the stance of other denominations so that one can learn from the other.

So, if I’m not going to actually do the research to this project any time soon, in the original proposed form, I thought it would be a venture to see what feed back I received from the blogging world. I am interested to hear your stories and thoughts. Post a comment (you can do so anonymously if you like) or e-mail me.

Texas Music: Buster Jiggs

Went to a free Buster Jiggs concert last night at the Executive Surf Club. It's all about promoting the uprising stars those free concerts. And it worked. For me and my friends at least. We're now fans of BJ. Listen to Buster Jiggs.

Check out Buster Jiggs. Texas Music.

Resorted to video games...

The Spurs are in the playoffs. Sweet.

Can I just say that it's weird being home? I'm not used to answering to people, much less multiple people, when wanting to go out and do something. I've been away from home for 5 years only visiting a couple times a year. It's a different way of life around here. I do need a summer job other wise I'll have no money to escape every now and then and who wants to sit on their bum all summer? I've already gotten a bit tired of that.

Started playing Zelda: Ocarina of Time again, however. I tried a while back, but it messed up and wouldn't let me finish one of the temples I was in. This frustrated me and I haven't wanted to try again. Since then there are now Majora's Mask, Wind Waker, and the soon released Twilight Princess. Seems that I will be busy trying to catch up with all of them. Makes it hard when the only time I can do this is when I'm at home...

In the news

Recently found this blog by Michael Yon. He is in Iraq and writing about his experiences there and the lives of the soliders and Iraqis. I started reading from January 2005 when his posts began and am now somewhat through the month of March. Very moving blog and eye opening. After reading this post and looking at the picture I feel there are song lyrics in the making.



Also, I'm glad that this proposed Texas bill did not go through... There are more important things to deal with people.

In Corpus

Made my way home.

South bound 35 to 37 to the Blacklock back door.

Locked myself in the station wagon upon arrival.

Mark and Aaron like to attack me when I get home (they both recently turned 12--yikes) so I sometimes hide from them to avoid the inevitable. They both said they wouldn't attack me this time, and they didn't, so it was good. The last time I came home--Christmas!--both of them attacked me and I fell over into the couch.

Mi familia. :)

Stress relief....very humorus...

Jenn is studying for her final at 7 pm therefore I was inspired to post on the blog again....

And in the midst of everyone's finals craziness and in honor of those who have finished or are almost there, I link you to....this...

Powerless does not mean actionless

How many times have I thought to myself, "I'm going to Africa."? How many times have I felt a longing and a yearning to jump on a plane and land in Africa? The desire to go is overwhelming. Sometimes I pretend it doesn't exist. In fact, I have pretended for quite some time. Long enough to become comfortable where I am. Too long.

Maybe I figured that it was time enough for me to move on from the longing to see Africa and meet the people there--I obviously need to find something more practical to do with my life...living in a village or city in Africa is not practical. I obviously cannot be that serious about living in Africa, even if only for a short time, because I have done nothing to actually do it. All thoughts, all talk, no real action. I better just forget about it. Besides, I am also a bit scared of Africa. Could I really live there and face the poor health conditions of the children? Could I really be face to face with people dying of AIDS? What is there for me to do anyway? I can't stop the epidemic. I can't stop their dying. I am powerless. Did I forget my desire to go to Africa or talk myself out of it?

Powerless people. Perhaps that's what they need. Powerless people who are willing to let their hearts break with them. Powerless people, who, if they can do nothing else, will be a loving presence among them.

Rick Ufford-Chase is in Africa this week. As he relays his thoughts about going to Africa, his sentiments follow mine, "going to Africa actually makes me a little nervous, because I'm just not sure I have enough time in my day, energy in my life, or even room in my heart for more of that suffering and beauty."

Powerless Mary. I think the real question I should be asking myself is, "How can I not live face to face with the poor health conditions and people dying of AIDS?"--in any country. Powerless does not mean actionless.

My Personality Type

Your #1 Match: ESFJ

The Caregiver You are sympathetic and caring, putting friends and family first. A creature of habit, you prefer routines and have trouble with change. You love being in groups - whether you're helping people or working on a project. You are good at listening, laughing, and bringing out the best in people. You would make a great nurse, social worker, or teacher.

Your #2 Match: ENFJ

The Giver You strive to maintain harmony in relationships, and usually succeed. Articulate and enthusiastic, you are good at making personal connections. Sometimes you idealize relationships too much - and end up being let down. You find the most energy and comfort in social situations ... where you shine. You would make a good writer, human resources director, or psychologist.

Your #3 Match: ESFP

The Performer You are a natural performer and happiest when you're entertaining others. A great friend, you are generous, fun-loving and optimistic. You love to laugh - and you like almost all people equally. You accept life as it is, and you do your best to make each day fantastic. You would make a good actor, designer, or counselor.

Your #4 Match: ISFJ

The Nurturer You have a strong need to belong, and you very loyal. A good listener, you excell at helping others in practical ways. In your spare time, you enjoy engaging your senses through art, cooking, and music. You find it easy to be devoted to one person, who you do special things for. You would make a good interior designer, chef, or child psychologist.

Your #5 Match: ENFP

The Inspirer You love being around people, and you are deeply committed to your friends. You are also unconventional, irreverant, and unimpressed by authority and rules. Incredibly perceptive, you can usually sense if someone has hidden motives. You use lots of colorful language and expressions. You're qutie the storyteller! You would make an excellent entrepreneur, politician, or journalist.

What's Your Personality Type?

Could it be for real that I've switched into the rhelm of extroverts?? What I have traditionally received on this test is ISFJ, which is the 4th choice down and the only introvert option! I was talking to friends about this the other day actually. About 5 years ago I was on the extreme introverted side--as in I answered every question refering to interverts as an introvert. No extroverted tendancies whatsoever. I realized this was something I needed and wanted to over come. As I've taken this test over the last 4 years I've seen myself progress from extreme introvert to less extreme introvert, contintually moving closer to the middle of the spectrum and towards the extroverts. I think I'm still more introverted than extroverted, but maybe this means I am closer to the middle ground for both of them. That would be pretty sweet. I bet I'll take another one of these at camp, so I guess I will see if the results are the same. As for careers, I am hoping to use this summer to gain some focus on what God is calling me to. I'm rather clueless. I am hoping a summer of processing the last year will help that, as well as some inner reflection. Anyway, here are my results. Do you think they are accurate?

Endings, beginnings, and renewals

Folks, my first year of seminary is offically over and I've been in Texas since Sunday... It's wonderful! I'm hanging out with my friend Jenn from college for the week--in the great city of Austin. We're heading up to Sherman for AC graduation at the end of the week to see Kara and Katie graduate from the teacher program. I'm real excited to be back in Texas and to see everyone again! Hopefully I don't die of heat cramps, heat exhaustion, heat stroke....you know, all the glorious plagues of a Texas summer. Working at camp will be wonderful though--if only they would call and tell me if I'm offically working there or not!

I guess I'm working backwards in terms of blogging content since I've missed for a few...

Sunday should have contained a link to this Mr. T video: Treat you mother right. It being Mother's Day and all. Snagged the link from Dave.

Saturday was a day of packing up all my stuff, moving some of it into storage in the basement of my hall, and putting most of it above my closet. Sorta looks like this... I remembered how much I hate packing my life up in a box at the end of every year, only to unpack it so that it can later be repacked. Josh is on to something here (and yes, the picture I linked to came from Josh's site). Joyful will be the day when I have my own place and can forget about packing up my life--at least for a few years.

Friday said hasta la vista to Church History and my first year at Princeton Seminary. It feels like I have survived more than finished. I think it was Matt who said that we need to receive something from the school upon the completion of our first year--a medal or ax of some sort. Wouldn't that be awesome...

With every ending there is a beginning and the chance for a fresh start.

Bring it!

Educational Insanity

A summary of my week as categorized through the insanity of a graduate education:


You know you've reached new levels of educational insanity when...


you take a study break to brain storm on scenarios for low ropes facilitation, and after coming up with one involving escaping a burning ship to a ship that is not burning, the only other idea you can think of is to tell your campers to picture themselves going from one ground of being to another ground of being....


the light at the end of the tunnel is not necessarily because you're finished working, but that the sun is rising to bring in a new day before you've finished the last one...


(this one may deserve a warning...I heard someone say this, and, just to reiterate the point of the educational insanity phrases, for this to become a way to describe the educational process, there is something wrong...)

you relate your study habits to eating disorders...binge and purge...


you seriously consider connecting yourself to an IV of ever flowing caffeine...

_____________________________


This is a series inspired by Peter Allen:


You know you have reached new levels of educational insanity when...

you calculate the percentage of your brain activity.


You know you have reached greater levels of educational insanity when...

your brain activity is only operating at 37% +/- 1%.....


You know you have reached an exceedingly high level of educational insanity when....

your brain activity is below 25% and decreasing rapidly +/-1%....

_____________________________


Hope you enjoyed the above--they are based off of personal experience and/or the comments and experiences of my fellow seminarians.

_____________________________

* 2 more classes are over--Sin and Salvation in the Old Testament as well as Intro to the New Testament! Church History final is on Friday...then I'll be finished....

** I leave for Texas in 4 days!

*** I'm going to the Austin College graduation!

**** That means I can sing in the A Cappella Choir as an Alumni!

***** I can't wait to see everybody! :)

I'd sing for you...

This song is pretty accurate....

This one too:


Obladi oblada life goes on
how the life goes on

It's me

Apparently I'm famous.

Mary Blacklock in this quality movie. Check the full cast, I'm sure Susan was a great role for me...


In more important news....

Systematic Theology I is offically over!