Star Date 2011.06.30. Captains Log: I have once again been trapped by time and unable to report back to the ship for two days. Unknown to me time has been stalking me and devising plans to trap me with work, chores, and the mundane. It seems like there is no escaping it's hungry grasp. I am recording these days in the hopes that should I be unable to get back, someone may stumble upon them and know that even though the reports went unposted, I was still thankful for them.
Tuesday was the last day before summer break for the Chester Le Community Connections Crew and it seemed as if everyone involved was in a great mood. Not that we are happy to be finished for the season, but because we look forward to seeing the people and wishing them well over the holidays and truly hope that they have a great summer. As I was loading up the bus my good friend Kevin was BBQ some chicken on the grill. Let me tell you, I almost bit his arm a few times as I went by, the smell was so good it was hard to resist leaping at the food. That's okay I went hungry for a few hours and took out the wife for a late night dinner midweek which should happen more often because we had great fun and a chance to talk. Stolen moments; which are rare, are usually the most treasured. And for us to have a conversation about other things then, what needs to get done around the house, or what needs to be fixed and whats on the shopping list are worth every minute. Of course spending quality time with the wife is not only important but very enjoyable.
Wednesday I started my morning early, I had to be in Barrie for a seminar by 8:30 am. The rental car I drove reminded me how nice it is to have a vehicle. The drive gave me time to listen to some much need sermons which I have been missing from APC on Wednesdays because I now ride my bike instead of driving. Although the day started off raining it did brighten up in the afternoon and on the way home I was able to pick up stuff for my bike and my wife. Doing little things for her like picking up some flower pots for replanting mean so much to her and also hanging up our wedding pictures over the fireplace finally, also made her day. I was also able to clean some of the garage and strip the pews; we reclaimed, of the material to repair some of the benches at church. Merna likes doing projects to help out anyway she can. I love the fact that Merna is unafraid of any challenge. We ended the day with a walk in the park and then some supper. All in all I had a great time and slept like a baby. I can't wait to see what today holds after my walk this morning into work. Being able to talk with the father and praying for a solid period of time really impacts my day in a positive way.
This is the Captain signing off, and for those who don't get the reference, it is from Star Trek. Loved the show and was crazy for the movies, my favorite is The Wrath of Khan and the new prequel.
Thursday, June 30, 2011
Monday, June 27, 2011
Day 179 Appreciation
This morning I woke up early as usual and had my shower and walked into work. The routine of the day does not take long to kick in or the mind start to wander. Our minds capability to skip over details is truly amazing. Take for instance when you are driving long distances, sometimes there are gaps in your perception and you are amazed that you missed seeing something. Your focus, which is the destination, can blur or even wipe out the journeys details. This happens to me frequently, however not as much as when you are directly exposed to your surrounds, like when you walk or cycle.
Like many things at this time in the world, isolation is the result of comfort. And experience is warped by the isolation in which we place ourselves. What I mean is that when you drive only your hands and feet are involved where as when you walk the whole body and your senses are involved. Walking may take longer, be tiring, and maybe even difficult depending on distance, but at least you are engaged with the world. In a car your experience of your surroundings is limited. Outside, you see the sights and smell the roses and hear the sounds. How else are we supposed to have an appreciation for something, other than with experience?
So for me today, I am grateful for the walk, the wind, the smell of grass, and the sounds of the trees. Spending time focused on the world also gives me time to appreciate it along with its creator. We as humans have been given so much and our original job was to take care of it. I often wonder if we would not have a better perspective of the world, God and ourselves if we rejected the technologies that distract us today. If we were to take a giant leap back in time and worked the land with our hands, would that closeness to our food source and time spent with creation itself give us a better appreciation for God and our place in the world? I mean I thank God for all my possessions for they were given to me; but how much more would I be, if my faith was put into practice by relying on him for everything including food from the land? Just some food for thought.
Day 178 Another BBQ
Well we pulled off another great BBQ and were able to avoid rain yet again, although the clouds looked menacing. There is just something about the smell of meat cooked over a flame that makes me hungry just thinking about it. Merna and I have the set up pretty much down to a fine art now and set up takes about 1-2 hours. Everyone loves to eat outside which makes having a large backyard a blessing, the only problem is that we can't have everyone over at once because we know to many people who are eager to visit. We already have 2 more dates scheduled and summer weekends are starting to disappear. This new BBQ makes my life easy, it cleans up fast and seems to cook evenly. When you have the right tools for the job everything goes smoothly. The only problem I seem to have is that everyone brings more food than we can eat and we have a small fridge. I guess that means leftovers for everyone. It was great seeing my nieces and having my father and his wife along with my friend John over. Good company as always leads to good conversation and times.
Day 177 Jazz
Saturday was a day of Jazz and relaxation. Merna and I had a great time going to the Distillery District and immersing ourselves in the food and music. Although the weather was overcast we were able to avoid rain. Of course we also had to visit Soma since we were in the area and Merna enjoyed the chocolates as usual. It was great to be able to walk around the small shops at a relaxed pace instead of racing around like most weekends. We enjoyed lunch at the Mill St. Pub and then hit the patio to sit and listen to the musicians, the best part of course was having fun together.
Friday, June 24, 2011
Day 176 Poems to my wife.
I love my wife and here are 5 of my favourite poems on how thankful I am to have her in my life.
1)
2)
3)
4)
5)
1)
The joy of my joy is you,
The dawn of my day and brightness there of is true.
As the hours move in constant precision,
So too my heart, without conscience decision.
Simply knowing that you live is a priceless treasure,
Understanding this reality is shattering when we are together.
You have heard it said that happiness or love can not be bought,
But as true is the fact that to experience it, it must be sought.
So tis with this knowledge locked in my mind,
I cry out and run for you to find.
For if the joy of my joy is your joy too,
How much more if I daily give it to you?2)
As the sun orbits the earth, so to does my love encompass you,
May my love warm your heart as the earth does the sun’s view.
As every starry night precedes every glorious morning,
May every difficulty be overshadowed by graces adorning.
As the moon reflects the sun’s rays to brighten the night,
May my affection make your every step feel light.
As the twinkling dew nurtures the glistening grass,
May my words smooth every trouble like polished brass.
As our lives come closer to being forever joined,
“May God bless our lives”, be the phrase we both coined.
As I end this poem of love and care,
May it reflect the life that we are going to share.3)
My Hero
Wrapped in daily uncertainty and moving in continually doubt,
With many bumps and scraps you manage your way with out the need to shout.
Left out by many and hampered by a few,
Helped by even less you have so much to do.
Hindered by the changing obstacle course of others,
And even more so by the multitude of us mothers.
You manage to; like a flower in mire, flourish and survive,
Spreading joy and happiness you are more than just alive.
A splendid example of challenging adversity at every mile,
It seems you never loose the ability to show your lovely smile.
You are my hero and this fact I want you never to question,
Though I am not blind, I see what you see with affection,
To walk in another’s shoes and imagine what that would be,
I don’t believe I, or those close around you would last five minutes not even three.4)
To my wife of now two hundred and twenty three days,
I send you from my craving heart its ever-beating waves.
Like a drum it keeps rhythm to the thoughts in my mind,
Visions of you float to the surface and with my conscience bind.
Unforgettable and memorable has been each passing day,
Words cannot express the fullness of love I wish to say.
Knowing that this world will some day come to an end,
Intensifies the affection that I have lovingly penned.
Great comfort is found in knowing that when all is said and done,
We two will be together always, between the dawn and setting sun.5)
With my head on your chest I can hear it’s gentle beat,
It is soft, warm and quite like a child’s little feet.
But the pitter-patter I am comforted by is not emanating from your breast,
It echoes in my mind a song of joy give by God to fuel my rest.
For it was he that made thee, perfect in every way,
You were Bone of my bone flesh of my flesh I do not know what is to come,
When this life passes I hope to keep your memories in the eternal sum.
a gift that he was proud to give away.
Like all good things I receive from his hand,
It is by grace alone by which I now beside you stand.
Truth be told that in this life there is nothing I have earned,
And so my cry to God is so grateful that in my heart you’re burned.
Forever together is a quote of dreams a fantasy of the mind,
But as long as we two are allowed to breathe on Earth to you I strive to be kind.
Thursday, June 23, 2011
Day 175 The Great I AM
There is great comfort in knowing that my God is the great I AM. He needs no backing, no reference, no conformation and any proof required, already exists. Walking into work this morning was fantastic as usual and gave me time to ponder and look at the trees, the grass the sky and all of creation. As like most times, questions pop into my head probably like most people. Like how are the trees so diverse? Or why is some grass bluer than others? Of course all these questions are unanswerable and lead to the large question of who created it in the first place?
I never understood how someone could ask themselves about creation and stop there without asking about where it all came from? As I believe in God the answer is clear, concise and definitive. I guess that is what the bible means by building your house on a rock, once you know your origin everything else falls in to place and the question why is just a matter of study. I know I was created to commune with the Lord, my life span is just the exercise of that reality. God’s word; the bible, is there to guide and teach me how best to go about that exercise.
And as I study about the Great I AM, I find comfort, peace, stability and purpose. I thank God for his saving grace and his words, which he left for us to discover and share. Knowing the mind of God is easy, just open the word.
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Matthew 3:17
And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.
And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.
Matthew 10:34
Think not that I am come to send peace on earth: I came not to send peace, but a sword.
Think not that I am come to send peace on earth: I came not to send peace, but a sword.
Matthew 10:35
For I am come to set a man at variance against his father, and the daughter against her mother, and the daughter in law against her mother in law.
For I am come to set a man at variance against his father, and the daughter against her mother, and the daughter in law against her mother in law.
Matthew 11:29
Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.
Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.
Matthew 15:24
But he answered and said, I am not sent but unto the lost sheep of the house of Israel.
But he answered and said, I am not sent but unto the lost sheep of the house of Israel.
Matthew 16:15
He saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am?
He saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am?
Matthew 20:15
Is it not lawful for me to do what I will with mine own? Is thine eye evil, because I am good?
Is it not lawful for me to do what I will with mine own? Is thine eye evil, because I am good?
Matthew 22:32
I am the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob? God is not the God of the dead, but of the living.
I am the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob? God is not the God of the dead, but of the living.
Matthew 24:5
For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many.
For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many.
Matthew 28:20
Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen.
Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen.
Mark 12:26
And as touching the dead, that they rise: have ye not read in the book of Moses, how in the bush God spake unto him, saying, I am the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob?
And as touching the dead, that they rise: have ye not read in the book of Moses, how in the bush God spake unto him, saying, I am the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob?
Mark 13:6
For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many.
For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many.
Mark 14:62
And Jesus said, I am: and ye shall see the Son of man sitting on the right hand of power, and coming in the clouds of heaven.
And Jesus said, I am: and ye shall see the Son of man sitting on the right hand of power, and coming in the clouds of heaven.
Luke 12:49
I am come to send fire on the earth; and what will I, if it be already kindled?
I am come to send fire on the earth; and what will I, if it be already kindled?
Luke 12:51
Suppose ye that I am come to give peace on earth? I tell you, Nay; but rather division:
Suppose ye that I am come to give peace on earth? I tell you, Nay; but rather division:
Luke 21:8
And he said, Take heed that ye be not deceived: for many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and the time draweth near: go ye not therefore after them.
And he said, Take heed that ye be not deceived: for many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and the time draweth near: go ye not therefore after them.
John 5:43
I am come in my Father's name, and ye receive me not: if another shall come in his own name, him ye will receive.
I am come in my Father's name, and ye receive me not: if another shall come in his own name, him ye will receive.
John 6:35
And Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst.
And Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst.
John 6:48
I am that bread of life.
I am that bread of life.
John 6:51
I am the living bread which came down from heaven: if any man eat of this bread, he shall live for ever: and the bread that I will give is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world.
I am the living bread which came down from heaven: if any man eat of this bread, he shall live for ever: and the bread that I will give is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world.
John 7:28
Then cried Jesus in the temple as he taught, saying, Ye both know me, and ye know whence I am: and I am not come of myself, but he that sent me is true, whom ye know not.
Then cried Jesus in the temple as he taught, saying, Ye both know me, and ye know whence I am: and I am not come of myself, but he that sent me is true, whom ye know not.
John 8:12
Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.
Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.
John 8:18
I am one that bear witness of myself, and the Father that sent me beareth witness of me.
I am one that bear witness of myself, and the Father that sent me beareth witness of me.
John 8:23
And he said unto them, Ye are from beneath; I am from above: ye are of this world; I am not of this world.
And he said unto them, Ye are from beneath; I am from above: ye are of this world; I am not of this world.
John 8:24
I said therefore unto you, that ye shall die in your sins: for if ye believe not that I am he, ye shall die in your sins.
I said therefore unto you, that ye shall die in your sins: for if ye believe not that I am he, ye shall die in your sins.
John 8:28
Then said Jesus unto them, When ye have lifted up the Son of man, then shall ye know that I am he, and that I do nothing of myself; but as my Father hath taught me, I speak these things.
Then said Jesus unto them, When ye have lifted up the Son of man, then shall ye know that I am he, and that I do nothing of myself; but as my Father hath taught me, I speak these things.
John 8:58
Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Before Abraham was, I am.
Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Before Abraham was, I am.
John 9:5
As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world.
As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world.
John 9:39
And Jesus said, For judgment I am come into this world, that they which see not might see; and that they which see might be made blind.
And Jesus said, For judgment I am come into this world, that they which see not might see; and that they which see might be made blind.
John 10:7
Then said Jesus unto them again, Verily, verily, I say unto you, I am the door of the sheep.
Then said Jesus unto them again, Verily, verily, I say unto you, I am the door of the sheep.
John 10:9
I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture.
I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture.
John 10:11
I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep.
I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep.
John 10:14
I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine.
I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine.
John 11:25
Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live:
Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live:
John 12:46
I am come a light into the world, that whosoever believeth on me should not abide in darkness.
I am come a light into the world, that whosoever believeth on me should not abide in darkness.
John 13:19
Now I tell you before it come, that, when it is come to pass, ye may believe that I am he
Now I tell you before it come, that, when it is come to pass, ye may believe that I am he
John 14:6
Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.
Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.
John 14:10
Believest thou not that I am in the Father, and the Father in me? the words that I speak unto you I speak not of myself: but the Father that dwelleth in me, he doeth the works.
Believest thou not that I am in the Father, and the Father in me? the words that I speak unto you I speak not of myself: but the Father that dwelleth in me, he doeth the works.
John 14:11
Believe me that I am in the Father, and the Father in me: or else believe me for the very works' sake.
Believe me that I am in the Father, and the Father in me: or else believe me for the very works' sake.
John 14:20
At that day ye shall know that I am in my Father, and ye in me, and I in you.
At that day ye shall know that I am in my Father, and ye in me, and I in you.
John 15:1
I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman.
I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman.
John 15:5
I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.
I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.
John 17:14
I have given them thy word; and the world hath hated them, because they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world.
I have given them thy word; and the world hath hated them, because they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world.
John 17:16
They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world.
They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world.
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Day 174 Tonights Community Connections Dinner
Community Connections Dinner
As the day winds down my thoughts drift to this evenings Community Connections Appreciation Dinner. After yesterdays line up; which had 8 new families, I certainly have a new appreciation. One of gratefulness that God has provided for my family and that everything I have is from the Lord.
In away I feel a little odd about attending this event for I feel like this is too much for the effort that I have put in so far. This being my first year I don’t quite feel like I have paid my dues, especially since Godly women who have faithfully served for 10 years surround me. They deserve all of the appreciation and our partners over at the Daily Food Bank.
I am however; proud to call APC my home church, and one that encourages more than just talk about reaching out into the community. If nothing else I encourage my brothers and sisters in Christ to pray for the team and community.
May the lord continue to bless this ministry and give the servers a heart of grace and understanding. I ask that we have continued success and opportunities to not only feed the body but also the heart and soul with the testimony of the Lord.
Matthew 25:31-40
King James Version (KJV)
31When the Son of man shall come in his glory, and all the holy angels with him, then shall he sit upon the throne of his glory:
32And before him shall be gathered all nations: and he shall separate them one from another, as a shepherd divideth his sheep from the goats:
33And he shall set the sheep on his right hand, but the goats on the left.
34Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world:
35For I was an hungred, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in:
36Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me.
37Then shall the righteous answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, and fed thee? or thirsty, and gave thee drink?
38When saw we thee a stranger, and took thee in? or naked, and clothed thee?
39Or when saw we thee sick, or in prison, and came unto thee?
40And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
Day 173 My Wifes Amazing Vision
Many people have often asked me how Merna can do this or how Merna can do that. Today I was pondering all of those questions along with the reactions of people who are shocked and amazed when she does something outside of their imagination or without me.
As I have said in the past, WE ARE ALL DISABLED. Some of us have more visible disabilities than others. Merna is no more or less disabled than you or me and before marrying me she was and remains independent and quite capable.
Secondly Merna SEES more than most people, the difference is that she uses her heart more than her eyes. I have noticed frequently that she has the unique ability to focus on the good in people instead of the bad.
Now with regards to the question, “how can she do (blank)”? Let me answer that by saying that with God nothing is impossible and he has provided her with the drive and determination to try until she can. I am very impressed with her ability to try again and again. God has blessed each one of us with gifts; Merna uses all of them to the maximum and is rewarded for her faith. Unseeing faith is the fuel for God’s miracles and I have seen more after meeting her than ever before. Not to brag but Merna can crochet, cook, play the harmonica, play the piano, cycle and she has even driven a car. She even wants to go skydiving but I told her no way; only because I can see the ground coming.
To me she is perfect and if you ask me about vision, I would have to admit that she is quite a vision. Truly I have been blessed to know her.
Monday, June 20, 2011
Day 172 Random Thanks
Today has been interesting and full of funny little surprises, which is why I am going to break form and blog a little different today. This morning on my way out to the bus stop I ran into my neighbor and he insisted on driving me to work, talk about great timing.
When Omama called for her morning check in she seemed really good, so I asked if she was feeling better. She responded that she didn’t know why but she was feeling great, which to me is amazing. Right there that lifted my spirits.
I was really hungry this morning but that was okay because for some reason I had extra fruit with me. And although I am exhausted today, I really did get some much needed rest on the weekend and felt like I was finally getting back into Canadian time.
Just now I was thinking about this coming Saturday and what Merna and I can do to get out doors. So I emailed her about going to our beach spot and she told me to get out of her head, apparently she had the same idea.
Days like these seem to be rare, but that is not entirely true. It is usually the way we deal with and react to things that shape our day, but when we choose to focus on the good, then it seems abundant. It is like driving a different style than normal and all of a sudden you notice the same car everywhere, where before you didn’t.
So to all I wish a good perspective day.
Sunday, June 19, 2011
Day 171 - Repost Fathers Day
Being a man from a large family can sometimes be unique and different. Mine to say the least is very diverse and has many facets. There is my mother's side of the family and then my father's and then there are members who hold honorary roles. And so it is no surprise that with fathers day around the corner there is more than one I wish to thank and honour.
To my biological father I wish to thank for his never ending attempts at trying to help out when I am having a difficult time. He has always been eager to lend a supportive word and a friendly ear and I am proud to bare his name. A lot of who I am and my moral background do originates from our relationship. I hope that over the coming years our bond continues to strengthen along with his other children. This may sound strange but I am proud of my father for the lengths in which he has tried to mend the past with all of his children.
To my uncle Bob who I adore and have many things in common, I thank you for your willingness to be my friend at all times and the Love you have always shown me. Truly you could have been my father with some of our shared mannerisms. What I enjoy the most with you, has always been our openness and honest about all topics. I have never felt like I needed to hide anything from you. And when you told me that you think of me as your own son I could not have felt more joy or closer to you. I too feel like your son and hope to honour you as well as my father as best I can, you both encourage me.
To Bill, who cannot be left out of the picture, I tip my hat. A someone who entered the family when I was older, I must say that I admire your poise and composer. I am not the easiest person to deal with and it takes a long time to earn my trust as I am sure you full well know. The fact that you care so much about me and my opinion even if it is not your own is truly amazing. There have been times when we have not seen eye to eye but the level of respect I see between us I cherish deeply. With that being said I wish to say thank you for your patience with me and never doubt my love for you, even if we seem to have a difference of opinion. I still remember your generosity of spirit with me when I was younger and the ball games we shared. I miss those days and think of them often.
Last but certainly not least I wish to extend this last acknowledgement to Baba, my father in law; with whom I enjoy sharing unspoken secrets. With him, I am his son as if I came from his own body. He will always hold a special place in my heart for his quick adoption of me and the respect shown for my actions towards his daughter. His cheer is contagious and I feel always welcome in his presence. Although we speak very little due to language barriers, we know each other very well and can use hands and eyes to express much. I want him to know that there is nothing I wouldn't do for him or his family.
So to my heavenly father who provided all of these men of God I give thanks, praise, and glory, for without them I would not be the man I am today. What great examples of who I wish to be, and hope to be for others.
To my biological father I wish to thank for his never ending attempts at trying to help out when I am having a difficult time. He has always been eager to lend a supportive word and a friendly ear and I am proud to bare his name. A lot of who I am and my moral background do originates from our relationship. I hope that over the coming years our bond continues to strengthen along with his other children. This may sound strange but I am proud of my father for the lengths in which he has tried to mend the past with all of his children.
To my uncle Bob who I adore and have many things in common, I thank you for your willingness to be my friend at all times and the Love you have always shown me. Truly you could have been my father with some of our shared mannerisms. What I enjoy the most with you, has always been our openness and honest about all topics. I have never felt like I needed to hide anything from you. And when you told me that you think of me as your own son I could not have felt more joy or closer to you. I too feel like your son and hope to honour you as well as my father as best I can, you both encourage me.
To Bill, who cannot be left out of the picture, I tip my hat. A someone who entered the family when I was older, I must say that I admire your poise and composer. I am not the easiest person to deal with and it takes a long time to earn my trust as I am sure you full well know. The fact that you care so much about me and my opinion even if it is not your own is truly amazing. There have been times when we have not seen eye to eye but the level of respect I see between us I cherish deeply. With that being said I wish to say thank you for your patience with me and never doubt my love for you, even if we seem to have a difference of opinion. I still remember your generosity of spirit with me when I was younger and the ball games we shared. I miss those days and think of them often.
Last but certainly not least I wish to extend this last acknowledgement to Baba, my father in law; with whom I enjoy sharing unspoken secrets. With him, I am his son as if I came from his own body. He will always hold a special place in my heart for his quick adoption of me and the respect shown for my actions towards his daughter. His cheer is contagious and I feel always welcome in his presence. Although we speak very little due to language barriers, we know each other very well and can use hands and eyes to express much. I want him to know that there is nothing I wouldn't do for him or his family.
So to my heavenly father who provided all of these men of God I give thanks, praise, and glory, for without them I would not be the man I am today. What great examples of who I wish to be, and hope to be for others.
Day 170 - Inlaw BBQ Yesterdays blog today.
Had a great time entertaining in the outdoors for the first time this summer. We were privileged to host my inlaws for lunch. Burgers and sausage always taste better when mixed with family. I was happy to hear that my sister inlaw got the job she was hoping for and to see prayers answered. Very proud of my wife's niece and the fact that she can now play the guitar and very well. On another note I found out my brother knows Chris Chase from church, apparently there is no escaping his influence. The weather was fantastic and as always we shared many laughs and too much food. Times like these are worth so much more than any "thing". Blessed to have a great family and look forward to more cook outs.
Friday, June 17, 2011
Day 169 - To all my fathers
Being a man from a large family can sometimes be unique and different. Mine to say the least is very diverse and has many facets. There is my mother's side of the family and then my father's and then there are members who hold honorary roles. And so it is no surprise that with fathers day around the corner there is more than one I wish to thank and honour.
To my biological father I wish to thank for his never ending attempts at trying to help out when I am having a difficult time. He has always been eager to lend a supportive word and a friendly ear and I am proud to bare his name. A lot of who I am and my moral background do originates from our relationship. I hope that over the coming years our bond continues to strengthen along with his other children. This may sound strange but I am proud of my father for the lengths in which he has tried to mend the past with all of his children.
To my uncle Bob who I adore and have many things in common, I thank you for your willingness to be my friend at all times and the Love you have always shown me. Truly you could have been my father with some of our shared mannerisms. What I enjoy the most with you, has always been our openness and honest about all topics. I have never felt like I needed to hide anything from you. And when you told me that you think of me as your own son I could not have felt more joy or closer to you. I too feel like your son and hope to honour you as well as my father as best I can, you both encourage me.
To Bill, who cannot be left out of the picture, I tip my hat. A someone who entered the family when I was older, I must say that I admire your poise and composer. I am not the easiest person to deal with and it takes a long time to earn my trust as I am sure you full well know. The fact that you care so much about me and my opinion even if it is not your own is truly amazing. There have been times when we have not seen eye to eye but the level of respect I see between us I cherish deeply. With that being said I wish to say thank you for your patience with me and never doubt my love for you, even if we seem to have a difference of opinion. I still remember your generosity of spirit with me when I was younger and the ball games we shared. I miss those days and think of them often.
Last but certainly not least I wish to extend this last acknowledgement to Baba, my father in law; with whom I enjoy sharing unspoken secrets. With him, I am his son as if I came from his own body. He will always hold a special place in my heart for his quick adoption of me and the respect shown for my actions towards his daughter. His cheer is contagious and I feel always welcome in his presence. Although we speak very little due to language barriers, we know each other very well and can use hands and eyes to express much. I want him to know that there is nothing I wouldn't do for him or his family.
So to my heavenly father who provided all of these men of God I give thanks, praise, and glory, for without them I would not be the man I am today. What great examples of who I wish to be, and hope to be for others.
To my biological father I wish to thank for his never ending attempts at trying to help out when I am having a difficult time. He has always been eager to lend a supportive word and a friendly ear and I am proud to bare his name. A lot of who I am and my moral background do originates from our relationship. I hope that over the coming years our bond continues to strengthen along with his other children. This may sound strange but I am proud of my father for the lengths in which he has tried to mend the past with all of his children.
To my uncle Bob who I adore and have many things in common, I thank you for your willingness to be my friend at all times and the Love you have always shown me. Truly you could have been my father with some of our shared mannerisms. What I enjoy the most with you, has always been our openness and honest about all topics. I have never felt like I needed to hide anything from you. And when you told me that you think of me as your own son I could not have felt more joy or closer to you. I too feel like your son and hope to honour you as well as my father as best I can, you both encourage me.
To Bill, who cannot be left out of the picture, I tip my hat. A someone who entered the family when I was older, I must say that I admire your poise and composer. I am not the easiest person to deal with and it takes a long time to earn my trust as I am sure you full well know. The fact that you care so much about me and my opinion even if it is not your own is truly amazing. There have been times when we have not seen eye to eye but the level of respect I see between us I cherish deeply. With that being said I wish to say thank you for your patience with me and never doubt my love for you, even if we seem to have a difference of opinion. I still remember your generosity of spirit with me when I was younger and the ball games we shared. I miss those days and think of them often.
Last but certainly not least I wish to extend this last acknowledgement to Baba, my father in law; with whom I enjoy sharing unspoken secrets. With him, I am his son as if I came from his own body. He will always hold a special place in my heart for his quick adoption of me and the respect shown for my actions towards his daughter. His cheer is contagious and I feel always welcome in his presence. Although we speak very little due to language barriers, we know each other very well and can use hands and eyes to express much. I want him to know that there is nothing I wouldn't do for him or his family.
So to my heavenly father who provided all of these men of God I give thanks, praise, and glory, for without them I would not be the man I am today. What great examples of who I wish to be, and hope to be for others.
Thursday, June 16, 2011
Day 168 Your too emotional
Have you ever just had a cry? You know the one after which you felt so much better? Well I have and it always surprises me at peoples reactions. Even my Omama; who I love, has mentioned that she is a little uncomfortable with the emotional level at APC, my church.
This morning on my way into work I had one of those moments, where it was just me pouring out my heart to my God and nothing stood between us. It was a moment of awe, a moment of repentance, a moment of great gratitude and joy. This is the core of my belief system, an open and honest relationship with my creator, the great I AM, the Holy One, Perfection Realized. And knowing and understanding this truth is why I react with such emotion. It is a total overwhelming realization that I will never ever meet expectations or match up. When we realize God's position in our life we in turn realize our own, this elicits a response, in my case one of emotion.
Don't get me wrong this emotion is good, it is not in the form of despair, but one based on the knowledge that I will not be judge by my own righteousness, but that of God's son Christ Jesus. It is for this reason tears sometimes flood my soul, it is for this reason I sometimes can not find the words to speak. Wonder struck, I stand in awe, thankful, grateful and truly stunned. For Jesus paid it all and all to him I owe; and in the end if I am not true to the recognition of that truth and it's impact on my daily life how real am I living, and how real is my faith?
For if I believe God exists why should I hide my reaction to that fact? What does that say about my faith. So for me I will keep on repenting, keep on peeling away my layers of protection which are an illusion and be as visible to myself as I am with God. For it is written that even the Night is Like Day to You. So the hiding I do is not from God but myself and my understanding of my position in the body of Christ. Denying ones emotions might just lead to the denial of God himself. God forbid.
This morning on my way into work I had one of those moments, where it was just me pouring out my heart to my God and nothing stood between us. It was a moment of awe, a moment of repentance, a moment of great gratitude and joy. This is the core of my belief system, an open and honest relationship with my creator, the great I AM, the Holy One, Perfection Realized. And knowing and understanding this truth is why I react with such emotion. It is a total overwhelming realization that I will never ever meet expectations or match up. When we realize God's position in our life we in turn realize our own, this elicits a response, in my case one of emotion.
Don't get me wrong this emotion is good, it is not in the form of despair, but one based on the knowledge that I will not be judge by my own righteousness, but that of God's son Christ Jesus. It is for this reason tears sometimes flood my soul, it is for this reason I sometimes can not find the words to speak. Wonder struck, I stand in awe, thankful, grateful and truly stunned. For Jesus paid it all and all to him I owe; and in the end if I am not true to the recognition of that truth and it's impact on my daily life how real am I living, and how real is my faith?
For if I believe God exists why should I hide my reaction to that fact? What does that say about my faith. So for me I will keep on repenting, keep on peeling away my layers of protection which are an illusion and be as visible to myself as I am with God. For it is written that even the Night is Like Day to You. So the hiding I do is not from God but myself and my understanding of my position in the body of Christ. Denying ones emotions might just lead to the denial of God himself. God forbid.
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
Day 167 - APC Picnic Thoughts
Once again it was a beautiful day, great for the church BBQ. I had a blast seeing all of my church family again after such a long time away. Just to see their smiling faces and joy, to be a part of something bigger than myself. It was estimated that over 1000 people attended the event and it gave us a chance to reach out to the community around us and offer a welcome in a gentle way.
You know, today I was pondering the meaning of being rich and was thinking to myself what does someone who has a ton of money really benefit from it? Maybe rich cannot be defined by an object or thing but rather measured by ones contentment with ones own self and his so to speak lot in life. Maybe the ability to enjoy the present and the people around him. Where money is cold, hard and anti-social, by difference ones positive attitude can change any circumstance. So I will continue to ponder this question and consider wealth in new ways.
I know that this evening, touching base with my friends and family at the picnic certainly enriched my day and life. Truly I am blessed to be part of the APC family and look forward to celebrating with them again on Friday and Sunday our shared hope and salvation which is the Lord Jesus Christ.
You know, today I was pondering the meaning of being rich and was thinking to myself what does someone who has a ton of money really benefit from it? Maybe rich cannot be defined by an object or thing but rather measured by ones contentment with ones own self and his so to speak lot in life. Maybe the ability to enjoy the present and the people around him. Where money is cold, hard and anti-social, by difference ones positive attitude can change any circumstance. So I will continue to ponder this question and consider wealth in new ways.
I know that this evening, touching base with my friends and family at the picnic certainly enriched my day and life. Truly I am blessed to be part of the APC family and look forward to celebrating with them again on Friday and Sunday our shared hope and salvation which is the Lord Jesus Christ.
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
Day 166 Old School
After a full day at work, three bike rides and a trip with the Community Connections Crew, I have decided to keep it short and sweet.
1) Sleep
2) Food
3) Old Friends
4) Beautiful Weather
5) Found a name finally for my bike, Black Betty.
Goodnight fellow bloggers.
1) Sleep
2) Food
3) Old Friends
4) Beautiful Weather
5) Found a name finally for my bike, Black Betty.
Goodnight fellow bloggers.
Day 165 The dreaded taxes
It seems as if I am still running behind in my blogging. A day behind and lots of catching up to do, speaking of which I finally finished my taxes last night. The funny thing about doing taxes is that it forces you to reflect on the entire year, not just on financial matters but all the stops along the way. Even though I perceived the taxes to be a chore, the reality is that it provides a similar outcome as this blog. During the process of doing my taxes I could see that even though my income went down slightly, I was still truly blessed by God last year.
My wife and I were able to give more, I went on my first mission trip with my church APC, we purchased a new home (new to us) and also went on a trip to Niagara on the lake on our first Anniversary. These are the memories which I reflected on and had a chance to enjoy again. So the moral here is when you are doing what seems like a chore you may just receive a blessing instead.
My wife and I were able to give more, I went on my first mission trip with my church APC, we purchased a new home (new to us) and also went on a trip to Niagara on the lake on our first Anniversary. These are the memories which I reflected on and had a chance to enjoy again. So the moral here is when you are doing what seems like a chore you may just receive a blessing instead.
Sunday, June 12, 2011
Day 164 Tandem People
Went shopping for Tandem bicycles yesterday with the wife as usual when we are on an adventure we had a good time. The whole idea of a Tandem is that two people work together in order to achieve a common goal. With the bike it is a destination just like in life. On both roads there are hazards, bumps, hills and coasting times, but the concept focus is that through it all you work as one. The Bible also mentions the special relationship of a man and woman and that once joined they are to be as one flesh.
I have been blessed with a wonderful co-pilot and wife and despite the road and it's changes we are together forever and that is something to cherish and remember. I hope that the future holds many moments where we are both pedaling with all our might together to climb the hills of life. Truly do I appreciate her as a whole, mind body and spirit. She is a constant surprise and bringer of joy. I pray that in all marriages the parties involved remember to stop and have a little fun.
I have been blessed with a wonderful co-pilot and wife and despite the road and it's changes we are together forever and that is something to cherish and remember. I hope that the future holds many moments where we are both pedaling with all our might together to climb the hills of life. Truly do I appreciate her as a whole, mind body and spirit. She is a constant surprise and bringer of joy. I pray that in all marriages the parties involved remember to stop and have a little fun.
Saturday, June 11, 2011
Day 163 - Inlaws
My first week back to work is almost over, I am so tired it is not funny. I am still working on get back into the Canadian time frame after my trip. I am however very grateful to have a job, when many do not. I am blessed to have a loving wife and beautiful home in which to return to at the end of each day. One of my past co-workers husbands just passed away at age 53, which shocks and reminds me to cherish each moment I have breath and show love to all.
Thursday, June 9, 2011
Day 162 A Renewed friendship
Had my first bike ride of the season this morning and it was great. Fresh air, wind in what is left of my hair, blood pumping in the legs and heart racing. There is nothing quite like travelling under your own steam, everything about it is pure joy, the sights, the sounds and the opportunity to coast and appreciate your surroundings. I am grateful that there is such a thing as muscle memory, so my legs think I stopped riding only a week ago, now all I have to do is improve the oxygen processing part and I will be set.
Speaking of food, I am starving myself this morning. This time change thing is really squirrely and I hope my body adjusts soon. I am eating on Canadian time but my body seems to be behind a meal so at breakfast it thinks it is lunch. That means that the BBQ I was able to squeeze in before the storm last night was breakfast. Sounds so good right now, steak and grilled veggies, I am still hungry after having to oranges and a banana. I have to stop talking about food before I eat this computer. I catch you tomorrow blog and soon will review the trip.
I am looking forward to tonight and seeing my Community Connections crew and the Baymills community. I hear from a little birdy that they have been asking about me and I miss them too. May the Lord continue to bless them and uplift them and may the volunteers sharing their stories impact them. Feeding the body is important but the soul must be addressed as well. Speaking of food, I am starving myself this morning. This time change thing is really squirrely and I hope my body adjusts soon. I am eating on Canadian time but my body seems to be behind a meal so at breakfast it thinks it is lunch. That means that the BBQ I was able to squeeze in before the storm last night was breakfast. Sounds so good right now, steak and grilled veggies, I am still hungry after having to oranges and a banana. I have to stop talking about food before I eat this computer. I catch you tomorrow blog and soon will review the trip.
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
Day-160&1 OOpps
I guess I am a little bit out of it since I got back from vacation, it is a good thing a blog can't hold things against you. I totally forgot about it yesterday, to busy trying to catch up with things at work and get back into the daily groove. While I was away my neighbours were kind enough to keep their eye on my grass and cut it for me, I understand that it rained a lot while we were away. It was certainly nice to come back to sunshine and not rain, I guess Toronto can thank us for bringing the weather with us.
Despite the fact that I no longer have wheels, I am grateful for the opportunity to put in road miles with both my bike and the ankle express. The tour in Israel was just a stepping stone to summer fitness regime. I am looking forward to hooking up again with both the community connections group this Thursday and Converge on Friday, I certainly missed my church family. Very blessed to have them in my life and it is always encouraging to read their social media posts, shout out to Curtis, Chris Chase and Andy as well as others.
Now that summer is officially here I am planning home renovations and additions to the yard, it is going to be hard work but worth the effort. On a sadder note I am missing my wife's family that we visited over seas; however, I am really happy to have gotten to know them and look forward to keeping in touch. So for now it is back to the grind and I hope to start next week with renewed vigour and energy, this eight hour difference is hard to adapt to.
Despite the fact that I no longer have wheels, I am grateful for the opportunity to put in road miles with both my bike and the ankle express. The tour in Israel was just a stepping stone to summer fitness regime. I am looking forward to hooking up again with both the community connections group this Thursday and Converge on Friday, I certainly missed my church family. Very blessed to have them in my life and it is always encouraging to read their social media posts, shout out to Curtis, Chris Chase and Andy as well as others.
Now that summer is officially here I am planning home renovations and additions to the yard, it is going to be hard work but worth the effort. On a sadder note I am missing my wife's family that we visited over seas; however, I am really happy to have gotten to know them and look forward to keeping in touch. So for now it is back to the grind and I hope to start next week with renewed vigour and energy, this eight hour difference is hard to adapt to.
Monday, June 6, 2011
Day 159 - Back home
Today is my first day back to work and second full day back in Canada from our Vacation. Very grateful for the new insight into the bible and the places were Jesus walked. Thankful for the travel companions and their continuous offers to help my wife. For the beautiful landscape and opportunity to experience Israel, what a joy and feast for the senses. Visiting family Palestine and Greece was great and their hospitality was over the top, what can I say I have been blessed with great in laws. To God and his beautiful weather I say thank you along with our relatively smooth traveling experience. Last but not least I appreciated the chance to unplug and employ direct communication techniques (aka speaking with people). To tired from the Jet leg to really dig deep regarding the trip and our experience for now my gratefulness to have some rest will have to suffice for this blog.
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