The Literal Translation

Being A Dad - Becoming A Father

2012-10-26T11:02:00.001-07:00

When my daughter was born 10 mo ago and I held her for the very first time, I instantly changed.

Here is how I changed:

I would instantly get in a knife fight to protect this human I knew for approximately 9 seconds.
No matter what, I would always love her.
When she was bad, it would make me sad for her. Even if she did the same thing over and over and over and over and over, I'd always love her and it would just make me more sad each time she did it.
As her dad, I experience sadness when she is upset. When she was happy, I felt joy. When she was laughing, it made me laugh. Her delight and joy was my pleasure.

To me a dad is more biological- table stakes for having a kid. Most guys are goof-balls with a baby. They hold them, love them, and protect them. True, some people don't act as a dad, but I'd say that most men with kids meet these minimum qualifications.

Becoming a father is more complex: You have to pray for her, guard her heart, be an example for her, shower her with love and affection so that she doesn't have that void. I have to do what is right for her, even if it makes her sad.

I'm learning more each day. I'm learning that to be a good father, I need to love her mother even more than before. I need to love her and give her the comfort of knowing that she is appreciated and valuable because it cascades down to my daughter.

This is the goal I'll have until the day I die.

the iPad and me

2010-02-09T08:23:00.000-08:00

Things I need on the iPad before I buy it... well before I feel good about buying it, becuase let's be honest- I am going to buy it.

1. Camera- augmented reality much, batman? Google Goggles? Video Conferencing?
2. iLife- (sans iDVD)a stripped down iMovie, iPhoto (with the ability to better configure your slideshows)
3. Microsoft Office - I know I know, but numbers is not an easy adjustment from excel IMHO and although Keynote > PPT, a lot of presos are in PPT
4. Multitasking - no more need be said.
5. Not on AT&T - Duh.
6. The ability to share internet connectivity from the iPhone. Biggest no brainer ever- I already pay for my iPhone's internet access, don't want to add $60 for another device -- This is, IMHO, the biggest gap.
7. Support for flash- 1ghz processor- excuses be damned. I hate Adobe, but they are right about missing a lot of key web content (Hulu, fancast, etc)
8. HDMI out for unified audio/video
9. Don't make me use app store for all apps.... would like to be able to install a-la the macbook air.
10. port my phone over- let me take call from it via bluetooth connectivity w/ iphone
11. video in would be AWESOME- I get that it doesn't have it due to all the additional programming required on this light os, but imagine this... plugging it in as a go-between your source and the set? push record and boom, or as Steve Jobs would say, BOOM.
12. Garageband (via line in)- I know I am dreaming here.
13. Wacom tablet capabilities.
14. Did I mention no AT&T?

Those are my 14 thoughts, what are yours?

THE JOB - URINE TEST

2009-11-30T08:23:00.000-08:00

THE JOB - URINE TEST
Thanks to Peter for sending this along.

Like most folks in this country, I have a job.. I work, they pay me. I pay my taxes and the government distributes my taxes as it sees fit. In order to get that paycheck in my case, I am required to pass a random urine test (with which I have no problem). What I do have a problem with is the distribution of my taxes to people who don't have to pass a urine test.
So, here is my Question: Shouldn't one have to pass a urine test to get a welfare check because I have to pass one to earn it for them?

Please understand, I have no problem with helping people get back on their feet. I do, on the other hand, have a problem with helping someone sitting on their ass - doing drugs, while I work. . . . Can you imagine how much money each state
would save if people had to pass a urine test to get a public assistance check?

I guess we could title that program, 'Urine or You're Out'.
Pass this along if you agree or simply delete if you don't. Hope you all will pass it along, though. Something has to change in this country -- and soon!!!!!!!

When Life Gives You Lemmons, Ask Life How it Became Self-Aware and Developed Solid Matter.

2009-10-15T12:29:00.000-07:00

I willingly admit the title doesn't help point you in the direction I plan on taking this.

Have you ever hit your goals to find that life after goals is not as good as you thought it would be?

I think part of my DNA is to be busy. I almost think its part of my identity. I cannot rest.

I feel like I can't keep going at this pace and that by perpetuating this pace, I am short-changing the relationships I care the most about. I think its time to get off the merry-go-round and be more intentional about doing a few things really well instead of a many things poorly.

No Matter How Accomplished You Are...

2009-09-28T23:17:00.001-07:00

If there is one thing in the world that I hate, it is celebrity worship. I hate it so much.

I hate that TMZ exists. I hate that we spend more time talking about what an actor or actress is wearing on a colored carpet more than we do thinking about pain around the world, or how we can make a difference. For a moment, however, I am going to set aside my severe, overwhelming, all-encompassing dislike for celebrity worship and talk about something that I dislike just about as much. Long have I told celebrities like Madonna, George Clooney, Warren Beatty, etc that their status doesn't make them qualified to speak about political issues, but I want to hold off on that rant to start a completely new one.

I will entitle this rant, "No Matter How Great Your Music or Art, You Don't Get to Molest or Rape Children."

Shall we start?

I don't know if you heard or not, but Michael Jackson died.

He was sick. He was sick in a lot of ways and was pedophile, HOWEVER, when he died, it seems like everyone became huge fans. Ask any of them and they get REALLY defensive and will say things like, "I was a fan all along" or "I am a huge MJ fan."

However, do some digging, and you will find that their profiles didn't have Michael Jackson in their "faves" until about oh say 90 days ago.

So these "fans" are willing to completely overlook his pedophilia because he was a "genius."

Here is how a conversation might go.

John: Seriously, there is more to life than his music? He screwed around with kids.

"fan:" yeah, but he was a musical genius who

John (interrupting) He screwed around with kids.

"fan:" you are being really narrow-minded here. His legacy is his music.

John: Not the kids he screwed up.

"fan:" you have a one track m..

John (interrupting) Did I mention he screwed around with kids.

Sweet freaking Moses- how easily we overlook that because we like his music.... Do you have to hate his music because of the person he was? No. Is there forgiveness of sins? Yes.

But it is a disservices to the severity of the offense to gloss over it because you like Billie Jean.

Now we come to Roman Polanski

He molested/raped a girl who was 13. He admitted it. Its a fact. He was 44 and she was 13.

He gets arrested and people have a problem with it because of how long ago the crime was. However, shall we not forget that the reason it was so long ago was because he RAN before sentencing. So he gets appropriately "re-arrested" and is now fighting extradition.

HE RAPED A 13 YEAR OLD GIRL. Seriously, people are supporting him? How is that possible. What the hell is wrong with people?

So let me get this strait, he rapes a 13 year old, then runs away from sentencing, and because he makes great films and it was so long ago, we aren't supposed to prosecute him?

Listen, the statue of limitations on that should be forever and ever.

What message are you sending if you do nothing? You are telling people a couple things.

1. The crime is not so severe that time can't make it go away.

2. Famous people get to break the laws as long as their art is "important."

3. Running is a good way to avoid jail.

4. Raping a 13 year old is not that big a deal.

5. "Artistic" people have an excuse because they are "different."

Here is my message to both of you that will read this.

Even if it takes time, we should either jail (or shoot) people who sleep with 13 year olds... no matter how long ago it was or how great their "art" is.

Forgiveness is for individuals, justice is for institutions.

I hope that the 13 year old girl can find forgiveness in her heart and be redeemed by Jesus and I hope that Roman can make restitution and find forgiveness with Jesus, but the state needs to administer justice or it creates an inequity that hurts everyone.

Justice is a Dish Best Served Luke Warm.

2009-06-22T16:06:00.000-07:00

***Minor Content Warning in the Videos***

Friday night we were driving home from seeing The Proposal.... because I am a good husband- that’s why. When we turned on the street close to our house, we saw two punk kids walking and they looked like they were up to no good.... started making trouble in my neighborhood.

As we drove by I heard a THUD and saw something hit the front of my wife's car. I slammed on the breaks and turned around to see them looking back and laughing. My first instinct? I can take them both. I put the car in reverse ready to take both of them on, but my wife insists that I let it go. She is concerned that they might be holding a gun or something. And thus ends my "Bruce Willis in Last Man Standing" moment.

We call the cops and I want to circle back, and find them, but my wife wants to go back home and check the car. We go home. So no sweet fights and no sweet recon work…. *sigh.

With disappointment in my voice, we call the police and give a description of the two blokes, but its late (like midnight), dark, and they two guys are not exactly standing in the light so we can get a good look. What we do notice we relay to the police.

I drop my wife off, clean off the car, look for damage, and hop in my other car (in case I do see them again I want the element of surprise) and head back to the scene to see if I can find those punks. I am driving around looking for these guys and as I am on route, my phone rings. It’s a police officer. The officer says they have two people matching the description I gave and they are holding them, but they need me to better describe the punks to positively ID them. The police had the right people. Of course I “just so happened” to be out and about at this time, so I offer to pop by and say howdy to the boys.

I have already given up on my “sweet tales of glory as I beat up 2 guys all by myself” and I have already given up on my “locate and recon” dreams, but I have one plan left. I am desperately hoping for that "Police officer conveniently takes a phone call out of ear shot and line of sight” scenario.

When I got there I was very happy to see the two punks in handcuffs....

"Is that them?" asked the officer.

"Oh yeah.” I replied. “That is them"

There was an awkward pause as I waited for the officer to ask if I wanted to teach them a lesson or introduce them to our friend "Billy the Club." I mean, I didn't want to be the one to suggest it, but I think officer knew where I was coming from.

"Ok, we will arrest them" the officer said.

"Do you need me to do anything else?" I asked (hinting that I could probably make the two a lot less "mouthy" if given the opportunity)

"No, we are all set, but you will want to look at your car for damage. If there is damage you can press charges." The officer replied.

Disappointed, I told the officer I would.

I got home a told my wife what had happened. At this point she was ready for bed and practically falling asleep. I wondered how she could sleep while something so exciting was happening all around us, but she was very capable. You know I honestly think she had already forgiven them!?

My phone rang again and the officer asked if we wanted to press charges. There was a scratch near where the egg had hit, but I couldn't in good conscience say authoritatively that they had caused it. Also, it probably could have been buffed out with some wax. I asked what would happen if we did or didn't press charges. The office said that if we did, they could be charged with a felony. If we didn't they would still be charged on breaking curfew and would still get in a lot of trouble.

From the sounds of it, the office didn't think we should press charges- especially if we didn't have any major damage. My wife and I discussed and we didn't press charges.

In my mind I am more a fan of vigilante justice.... the kinds where I get to perform an arm bar or triangle choke. Upon reflection, however, I should probably learn how to do them before I attempt them live with my wellbeing on the line.

So the punks got arrested, but didn't get felony charges.

At the end of the day, they were just punks, but they should be grateful my wife was in the car with me because she has the crazy thing called common sense.

She promised to keep sharing it with me as apparently I have none.

The BASEMENT PT 1 of "only God knows"

2009-06-18T09:32:00.000-07:00

So we bought our house and it had "never leaked" in the basement in the 6 years they had owned it. Of course its leaked 3 times in 2 years for us.

One to waterproofing.

Quote 1 12k

Quote 2 9k

I talked him down to 7k if we move everything out of our basement....

I have a kidney on eBay if anyone is interested and the buy it now price is right around 7k.

We are shooting to have that done next month, but we have to do something with the space after its waterproofed or it will look like black bubble wrap completely enclosing you. Apparently that is not the most friendly look know to man, so we have started the process of redesigning our basement. I will upload some of our highly technical drawings and feel free to give us some thoughts.

Letter to an Agent

2009-06-18T09:05:00.001-07:00

I wrote this for a friend who is not getting treated well by her agent.
She is tired of dealing with insurance and I am sure they rely on that get quick settlements, but it seems to me that you have to be the squeaky wheel.
_____________________________________________________________________________________

After our last conversation I am worried I left you with the wrong impression. After talking to my father, friends, and my lawyer I want to make sure you understand where I am coming from. I told you that I just want this to be over, but I am realizing that I am really no closer to resolving this than when we started. If anything, we are further apart. You see, I can't accept any of the blame for this.

I know you deal with complex situations quite often. The good news is that this is a very simple case.

1. I was in a cross walk
2. the cross walk said walk when I stepped into the crosswalk.
3. the car broke the law, went into the cross walk and hit me.

I am worried that you think I neither have the will nor the patience to endure, but let me assure you that I have both the resolve to make sure I am made whole and the resolve to let this case run its full course in settlement or suit.

Let me be perfectly clear. I have been very reasonable and only asked for medical expenses. I have not tried to get anything for pain and suffering. That doesn't mean I wasn't in pain and it doesn't mean I wasn't suffering. Have you ever broken a rib? Have you ever been hit by a car while riding a bike? I can assure you that pain and suffering always follow. I think that is pretty common sense. I have also missed work, incurred costs, been extremely inconvenienced, and already consulted a lawyer, but to date I have not asked for anything for those major inconveniences.

Against my lawyers wishes and advice I attempted to work with you to try and get this resolved, but the offer you have come back with is wholly unacceptable and with each passing day I become more inclined to take my lawyers advice and go after not only all my medical bills, but all my legal fees, pain and suffering, missed work, expenses incurred, and everything else.

I promise you this- I have both the will and the time to see this through to conclusion. Don't mistake my fatigue for lack of resolve and don't mistake my kindness for weakness. I will not let myself be taken advantage of by a systems who wants nothing more than an inexpensive and expedient resolution. If this goes to court it will be both high cost and slow turning. I don't want this, but it is a preferable alternative to the options you have presented to date.

Update

2009-06-18T08:55:00.000-07:00

I have been doing a lot more micro media than formal writing for two reasons.
1. faster
2. easier to put content in.

I am going to be syncing up all these resources here through my facebook account.

In the short term, let me give you the cliff notes of life to date.

1. Life/Wife is good.
2. Work is challenging, but good.
3. MBA is done[
4. Getting ready for our trip to Israel.

Crappy Day

2009-03-19T12:42:00.000-07:00

It has been a crappy week and I can't wait for it to be over. All I want to do now is simply kick-back and watch a bit'o the madness.

watch the madness with me

Great , Nonpartisan Credit Crisis Explanation

2009-03-03T11:13:00.000-08:00

The Crisis of Credit Visualized from Jonathan Jarvis on Vimeo.

My Favorite Video of Superbowl Sunday

2009-02-02T00:16:00.001-08:00

Monster.com - Moose @ Yahoo! Video

I loved this one.

Best Weekend Ever

2009-01-19T10:30:00.001-08:00

We went to Movin' Out - I am a HUGE billy joel fan and this performance was AMAZING.

This guy was the piano guy... listen to Scenes From an Italian Restaurant. Sick- the guy is sick.

It was simply awesome.

Then we went to my company party here.

Spent the night there.

Then we had a part at our place on Sunday and after it I watched 24.

I can die now.

Hard Work

2009-01-19T10:18:00.000-08:00

Some people hate it. I like it about 5 days in a row, but then I need a break.

This last weekend was the break.

Becuase You Are So Close to Heaven, That's Why.

2008-10-17T08:27:00.001-07:00

Space smells of steak, say Nasa.

http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/news/article1820985.ece

OUTER space smells of fried steak, scientists revealed yesterday.

The universe also has an aroma of hot metal and motorbike welding, Nasa experts said.

Astronauts reported the bizarre scents on their suits when they returned from space walks.

The space agency has commissioned Steven Pearce of British fragrance firm Omega Ingredients to recreate the smells to help train spacemen.

He said: “When astronauts were de-suiting and taking off helmets, they all reported quite particular odours.

“We have already produced the smell of fried steak, but hot metal is more difficult.

“We think it’s a high energy vibration in the molecule and that’s what we’re trying to add to it now.”

Mr Pearce told pupils at Moorside High School, Manchester, he hoped the smells would be ready this year.

The Best Website - Ever- Done, Finished, Forever, Amen.

2008-09-26T13:57:00.001-07:00

http://www.discoverthenetworks.org

Do it and look up your favorite Liberals. You WILL be amazed.

The Green Machine

2008-07-25T07:45:00.000-07:00

Being green today is the equivalent of being patriotic in the 80s.
I am completely tired of hearing about everything green. In my MBA we have spent more time on how to run a business without a negative environmental impact than we have on how to meet payroll, or manage workplace conflicts.

When my class graduates, we will have a lot of people who are eager to run a environmentally sustainable business with no idea how to sustain a payroll.

But isn't this what the liberals want? They want a group of people sold out to "hope," but completely reliant on the powers that be to supply for all their needs.

There was a stupid hippie show when I was growing up called Captain Planet. It was about a smurf-looking hippie that could undue pollution.

The villains were the "industry men" who polluted for no other reason, but the pure joy of starting a forest fire, or the unparalleled pleasure of hunting for a snow owl.

That is how the hippies view everyone who doesn't share their point of view. Well guess what, I don't. When we take corn from tables and use it as fuel, the price goes up and people around the world starve. Why should more people starve so you can ride around in your Prius feeling better than everyone?

http://www.ibdeditorials.com/cartoons.aspx#cartoon301706294118428

Gay Marriage- My Thoughts And Your Reactions

2008-07-03T01:10:00.000-07:00

So here are my thoughts...

I am not a scholar. I have to go on what I read and the opinions of those I trust.

Paul claims to be the chief of sinners, but I would lay claim to second in line and argue for number one. With that in mind I write this with a spirit of humility, knowing that I could not save myself and it took God coming into human history to save me. I have nothing to be proud of in and of myself, but when it comes to calling a sin a sin, someone is going to be offended. One option offend the person in sin by telling them that what they are doing is sin because God has called it sin. The other option is to offend God by somehow distorting his teachings or denying his truth to be liked by those who would oppose his truth. Given the choices, I am not going to be the one to tell God that He got it wrong and he needs to be more tolerant of alternative lifestyles.

Let me define my premise for my argument against gay marriage as it relates to the church.

The church espouse the Bible as our compass by practicing the methodology of Sola Scriptura.

( The Reformation doctrine of sola scriptura does not mean that only Scripture is meaningful, truthful, or useful for believers. It means that Scripture is the final arbiter, or final court of appeal, for spiritual truth claims, and that anyone making spiritual truth claims, no matter how highly s/he ranks as a leader, is ultimately accountable to the authority of the Bible.)

This means that the Bible may not give instruction on how to change your oil, so you would have to use a different informational source. Its ok to use other books, but on any issues of moral, spiritual, ethical, etc dispute, the supreme court is the Bible. Its not a pastor, its not a different book, or a sermon- its the Bible.

So then we have to look at what the Bible says about homosexuality and marriage.

Homosexuality
Jude 1:7 (English Standard Version)

just as Sodom and Gomorrah and the surrounding cities, which likewise indulged in sexual immorality and pursued unnatural desire, serve as an example by undergoing a punishment of eternal fire.

1 Corinthians 6:9-11 (English Standard Version)

Or do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: neither the sexually immoral, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor men who practice homosexuality, nor thieves, nor the greedy, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God. And such were some of you. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God.

(Let me take a quick digression here. It is important to note that all the things mentioned above are equally wrong in God's eyes)

1 Timothy 1:9-10 (English Standard Version)

understanding this, that the law is not laid down for the just but for the lawless and disobedient, for the ungodly and sinners, for the unholy and profane, for those who strike their fathers and mothers, for murderers, the sexually immoral, men who practice homosexuality, enslavers, liars, perjurers, and whatever else is contrary to sound doctrine

Ok One More.

Romans 1:26-27 (English Standard Version)

For this reason God gave them up to dishonorable passions. For their women exchanged natural relations for those that are contrary to nature; and the men likewise gave up natural relations with women and were consumed with passion for one another, men committing shameless acts with men and receiving in themselves the due penalty for their error.

Marriage

Genesis 2:18-24 (English Standard Version)

Then the LORD God said, "It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him a helper fit for him." Now out of the ground the LORD God had formed every beast of the field and every bird of the heavens and brought them to the man to see what he would call them. And whatever the man called every living creature, that was its name. The man gave names to all livestock and to the birds of the heavens and to every beast of the field. But for Adam there was not found a helper fit for him. So the LORD God caused a deep sleep to fall upon the man, and while he slept took one of his ribs and closed up its place with flesh. And the rib that the LORD God had taken from the man he made into a woman and brought her to the man. Then the man said,

"This at last is bone of my bones
and flesh of my flesh;
she shall be called Woman,
because she was taken out of Man."

Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and they shall become one flesh.

Ephesians 5:23-32 (English Standard Version)

For the husband is the head of the wife even as Christ is the head of the church, his body, and is himself its Savior. Now as the church submits to Christ, so also wives should submit in everything to their husbands.

Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her, that he might sanctify her, having cleansed her by the washing of water with the word, so that he might present the church to himself in splendor, without spot or wrinkle or any such thing, that she might be holy and without blemish. In the same way husbands should love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself. For no one ever hated his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it, just as Christ does the church, because we are members of his body. "Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and hold fast to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh." This mystery is profound, and I am saying that it refers to Christ and the church

1 Peter 3:1-7 (English Standard Version)

Likewise, wives, be subject to your own husbands, so that even if some do not obey the word, they may be won without a word by the conduct of their wives, when they see your respectful and pure conduct. Do not let your adorning be external—the braiding of hair and the putting on of gold jewelry, or the clothing you wear— but let your adorning be the hidden person of the heart with the imperishable beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which in God’s sight is very precious. For this is how the holy women who hoped in God used to adorn themselves, by submitting to their own husbands, as Sarah obeyed Abraham, calling him lord. And you are her children, if you do good and do not fear anything that is frightening.
Likewise, husbands, live with your wives in an understanding way, showing honor to the woman as the weaker vessel, since they are heirs with you of the grace of life, so that your prayers may not be hindered.

1 Corinthians 7:1-2 (English Standard Version)

Now concerning the matters about which you wrote: "It is good for a man not to have sexual relations with a woman." But because of the temptation to sexual immorality, each man should have his own wife and each woman her own husband.

I saved that one for the end because I think to me it makes the best point. It says that the way to release your desires is within marriage between a man and a woman.

My Thoughts

If the church doesn't accept the doctrine of Sola Scriptura, than it is probably not a Christian Church because it doesn't hold the Bible as the highest authority.

The bible is clear that homosexuality is a sin. Its not the only sin, but it is a sin. The bible is also clear that marriage is for a man and a woman- even being used by Christ to describe his relationship to the church. We are NOT dual-heads of the church, Christ is the sole head of the church.

Lifting a quote from http://www.christiananswers.net/

These references indicate that homosexual passions and acts are unnatural, shameful, contrary to sound doctrine and deny entrance to the Kingdom of God. This being so they cannot be the basis of a Christian marriage sanctioned by God's Church. The Church exists to save people, not to bless the means of their damnation. No marriage can be sanctioned by the Church if the very basis of the marriage involves acts that put the couple outside of eternal salvation. No matter what our society may legislate, the law of God is clear - that a marriage is not a godly marriage if it is a same sex union.

Thats how I feel too. I equate this to a question like, "if two people rob a house would God have them split the earnings equally?" The answer is not as simple as a "Yes" or "No" becuase as a Christian we cannot accept the premise of the question. The answer is that God doesn't want them to rob the house.

This is how I met my wife

2008-07-03T00:27:00.000-07:00

I think that D should teach some lessons. Make sure you listen to the whole thing.

is the ground getting hot?

2008-06-15T00:23:00.000-07:00

I was unable to sleep so I was reading the drudgereport and I found this.

I am convinced that gay marriage will be completely and totally accepted by the time I am 30.

My thoughts are below the article.

Male priests marry in Anglican church's first gay 'wedding'
By Jonathan Wynne-Jones, Religious Affairs Correspondent
Last Updated: 12:10AM BST 15/06/2008
An Anglican church has held a homosexual "wedding" for the first time in a move that will deepen the rift between liberals and traditionalists, The Sunday Telegraph can disclose.

Two male priests exchanged vows and rings in a ceremony that was conducted using one of the church's most traditional wedding rites – a decision seen as blasphemous by conservatives.

The ceremony broke Church of England guidelines and was carried out last month in defiance of the Bishop of London, in whose diocese it took place. News of the "wedding" emerged days before a crucial summit of the Anglican Church's conservative bishops and archbishops, who are threatening to split the worldwide Church over the issue of homosexual clergy.

Although some liberal clergy have carried out "blessing ceremonies" for homosexual couples in the past, this is the first time a vicar has performed a "wedding ceremony", using a traditional marriage liturgy, with readings, hymns and a Eucharist.

Article continues
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Both the conservative and liberal wings of the Anglican communion expressed shock last night.

The Most Rev Henry Orombi, the Archbishop of Uganda, said that the ceremony was "blasphemous." He called on Dr Rowan Williams, the Archbishop of Canterbury, to take decisive action if the Anglican Church were not to "disintegrate". Archbishop Orombi added: "What really shocks me is that this is happening in the Church of England that first brought the Gospel to us.

"The leadership tried to deny that this would happen, but now the truth is out. Our respect for the Church of England will erode unless we see a return to traditional teaching."

The Rt Rev Michael Scott-Joynt, the Bishop of Winchester – a powerful conservative figure – said that the service represented a wedding "in all but name". He said: "Strictly speaking it is not a marriage, but the language is clearly modelled on the marriage service and the occasion is modelled on the marriage service. This clearly flouts Church guidelines and will exacerbate divisions within the Anglican Communion."

The bishop said that it was up to the Rt Rev Richard Chartres, the Bishop of London, to act, adding that it would become a high-profile test case of Church authority.

"Can we stand for the clear teaching of the Church of England or are we powerless in the face of these actions, which I regret enormously have taken place," he said.

The service was held at St Bartholomew the Great in London – one of England's oldest churches, which featured in Four Weddings and a Funeral – and was conducted by the parish rector, the Rev Martin Dudley.

The couple, the Rev Peter Cowell, who is a cleric at one of the Queen's churches, and the Rev Dr David Lord, had registered their civil partnership before the ceremony.

Mr Dudley opened the service by saying: "Dearly beloved, we are gathered together here in the sight of God to join these men in a holy covenant of love and fidelity. Such a covenant shows us the mystery of the union between God and God's people and between Christ and the Church." In the vows, Mr Cowell and Dr Lord pledged to "hold from this day forward, for better for worse, for richer for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, till death us do part".

Mr Dudley blessed the union with the words: "As David and Jonathan's souls were knit together, so these men may surely perform and keep the vow and covenant betwixt them made."

Leading church figures expressed astonishment at the language and grandeur of the service, claiming that it was a highly provocative act. Although, the use of such a traditional ceremony does not constitute a marriage in the eyes of the law, Church figures on all sides said the event went further than any gay blessing ceremonies that had gone before.

The "marriage" will revive the war over homosexual clergy that has engulfed the Church since 2003 when Gene Robinson was made Bishop of New Hampshire and Jeffrey John, another gay cleric, who was about to become Bishop of Reading, was made to step down.

It is likely to embolden liberal clergy who have been reluctant to offer a full "wedding service" and will open the floodgates to other homosexuals who want a traditional ceremony.

Mr Dudley agreed to conduct the service despite Bishop Chartres warning that Church guidelines – drawn up when the Civil Partnerships Act was introduced – do not allow formal blessings of gay relationships. He argued that it was not a wedding but a blessing and that he was not "offering" blessing services, but responding to personal requests from friends. "I believe that marriage is a union between a man and a woman, but I see nothing wrong with blessing a couple who want to make a life-long commitment to one another."

A Church of England spokesman said: "Where clergy are approached by people asking for prayer in relation to entering into a civil partnership they should respond pastorally and sensitively in the light of the circumstances. But the House of Bishops affirmed that clergy should not provide services of blessing for those who register a civil partnership."

Marriage is 1 man 1 woman. In a church where we sent the wrong message there is special kind of problem. This is why I think the most dangerous attacks are from the inside of the church, not the outside. There is a higher standard for leaders of churches. I gotta crunch how I want to respond to this, but I will update this post as I can think about it more. Right now, I am just worried that people are going to miss the problems that allowing this will present. More on this soon.

drool drool

2008-06-09T12:08:00.001-07:00

can you say 3g iphone with GPS.

Holy Cow- now THAT is a sweet phone.

iPhone 3G
iPhone
See available colors: black | white
Phone, iPod, and Internet in one fast 3G device.

Introducing iPhone 3G. With fast 3G wireless technology, GPS, support for Microsoft Exchange ActiveSync, and the new App Store, iPhone 3G puts even more amazing features in your hands. And just like the original iPhone, it combines three products in one —a revolutionary phone, a widescreen iPod, and a breakthrough Internet device.

Get more details about iPhone 3G
Where to buy:

iPhone will be available in 8GB (black) and 16GB (black or white) models1 at Apple Retail Stores and AT&T Stores.

Find a store

What's new on iPhone 3G
3G Speed
3G Speed

3G gives you fast access to the Internet and email over your cellular network. And 3G makes it easier to multitask: When connected via 3G, you can surf the web even while you’re on a call.
iPhone in Enterprise
iPhone in Enterprise

With support for Microsoft Exchange ActiveSync, iPhone delivers push email, calendar, and contacts right to your pocket.
Built-in GPS
Maps with GPS

GPS adds a new dimension to mobile phone mapping. Find your location, get directions, and track your progress along a route.
The App Store
The App Store

The App Store lets you browse applications and download them directly to your iPhone. Some applications are even free.
Phone, iPod, Internet, and more.
Revolutionary Mobile Phone.
Revolutionary Mobile Phone

iPhone redefines what you can do on a mobile phone. Tap a number to make a call. Listen to voicemail in any order with Visual Voicemail.
Great Widescreen iPod.
Great Widescreen iPod

iPhone is an equally brilliant iPod. Enjoy music, videos, and more on the 3.5-inch color display and browse by album artwork with Cover Flow.
Internet in your pocket.
Internet in Your Pocket.

iPhone features rich HTML email, Maps with GPS, and Safari — the most advanced web browser ever on a portable device.
What's in the Box

* iPhone 3G
* Stereo headset with mic
* USB power adapter
* Dock Connector to USB cable
* Documentation
* Cleaning/polishing cloth
* SIM ejector tool

What's in the box
Specifications

Screen size
3.5 inches (diagonal)
Screen resolution
480 by 320 pixels (163 ppi)
Input method
Multi-Touch
Storage
8GB and 16GB1
Cellular
UMTS/HSDPA (850, 1900, 2100 MHz)
GSM/EDGE (850, 900, 1800, 1900 MHz)
Wireless data
Wi-Fi (802.11b/g)
UMTS/HSDPA (850, 1900, 2100 MHz)
EDGE (850, 900, 1800, 1900 MHz)
Bluetooth 2.0 + EDR

GPS
Assisted-GPS
Camera
2.0 megapixels
Battery2
Talk time: Up to 5 hours on 3G;
up to 10 hours on 2G
Standby time: Up to 300 hours
Internet use: Up to 5 hours on 3G;
up to 6 hours on Wi-Fi
Video playback: Up to 7 hours
Audio playback: Up to 24 hours
Dimensions
4.5 by 2.4 by 0.48 inches
(115.5 by 62.1 by 12.3 mm)
Weight3
4.7 ounces (133 grams)

AppleCare Protection Plan
Buy your iPhone with complete confidence
The iPhone warranty

iPhone comes with up to two years of technical support during the time your wireless agreement with your carrier remains active. In addition, your iPhone, its rechargeable battery, and all included accessories are covered against defects for a full year from the purchase date by a limited hardware warranty.
AppleCare Protection Plan

Enjoy peace of mind with the award-winning AppleCare Protection Plan. For up to two years from the original purchase date of your iPhone, you get repair coverage for your iPhone, battery, iPhone Bluetooth Headset, and included accessories — all for just $69. We recommend that you purchase the AppleCare Protection Plan with your new iPhone to take maximum advantage of its benefits.
AppleCare Protection Plan
Requirements

* Mac
* PC

* USB 2.0 port
* Mac OS X
v10.4.10 or later
* iTunes 7.7
or later
* Internet connection
(broadband recommended; fees may apply)
* AT&T service
(minimum two-year agreement)
* Free iTunes Store account
(valid credit card required)

* USB 2.0 port
* Windows XP Home or Professional (SP2), or Windows Vista
* iTunes 7.7
or later
* Internet connection
(broadband recommended; fees may apply)
* AT&T service
(minimum two-year agreement)
* Free iTunes Store account
(valid credit card required)

1. *Based on 3G and EDGE testing. Actual speeds vary by site conditions. Based on iPhone 3G (8GB) and first-generation iPhone (8GB) purchases. Requires new 2-year AT&T rate plan, sold separately.
2. (1) 1GB = 1 billion bytes; actual formatted capacity less.
3. (2) All battery claims depend on network configuration and many other factors; actual results will vary. Battery has limited recharge cycles and may eventually need to be replaced by Apple service provider. Battery life and charge cycles vary by use and settings. See http://www.apple.com/batteries and http://www.apple.com/iphone/specs.html for more information.
4. (3) Actual weight varies by configuration and manufacturing process.

1. Google, the Google logo, and Google Maps are trademarks of Google Inc. © 2008 TeleAtlas. All rights reserved.

David Lee Roth Tries out for American Idol

2008-06-05T12:09:00.000-07:00

Ummm yeah... amazing.

this post goes to 11

2008-05-26T01:57:00.001-07:00

Words of Wisdom From Spinal Tap - Watch more free videos

whats new

2008-04-11T22:23:00.000-07:00

We decided to host some kids from Uganda this weekend. We took them out to a restaurant for the first time (for some 2nd for others) tonight and it was awesome. They like fries so we took them to the dirty bird- Red Robin.

They were so grateful. It was amazing to me that we have so much and are often not grateful. They have so little and are SO grateful.

1 member of the group was a chaperon and she told us the story of how she became a Christian and in her family of 12 siblings, was the first to accept Christ. It was powerful to hear her talk about how she felt called to Christ and how she clung to her faith in the midst of serious adversity.

She reminded my wife and I about Irene.

These giants of the faith don't struggle with the complacency that I do, nor do they take any credit. They follow the Mother Theresa model of letting your actions supply the power for your words.

Video goodness

2008-04-08T01:42:00.000-07:00