Question of the day: In what area of my spiritual growth do I need to be more patient and persistent?
I've decided to skip Day 27 as I do not wish to share the answer. The gist of the chapter, is how to resist temptation. While it make be difficult it is avoidable.
So back to Day 28... This chapter was particularly interesting as it focuses on time. Often we want things in a hurry, this can include spiritual growth. As the chapter discusses, there is no quick fix, instant remedy, or drive thru window for spiritual growth. When we ask God for things, we often want them then and there, however when we wait we develop more and into better people, we learn what it is to work hard, and struggle.
Thursday, November 26, 2009
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Day 26 Temptation
What Christlike character quality can I develop by defeating the most common temptation I face?
Answer: Patience. I have none, many of the people I encounter everyday are unlovable idiots. Everyday I am tempted to flip someone off or slap someone because of something stupid someone said or did (especially when I'm driving). I can be on my way to church and have an idiot make an illegal turn and cut me off, and it sends me into a rage. I then feel like a fraud because its not a very Christlike thing to do , especially on the way to church. Anger is one of, if not my most major vice , and while chapter 26 talks about using a quick prayer to keep from giving in, it seems that anger is an automatic reaction....
Answer: Patience. I have none, many of the people I encounter everyday are unlovable idiots. Everyday I am tempted to flip someone off or slap someone because of something stupid someone said or did (especially when I'm driving). I can be on my way to church and have an idiot make an illegal turn and cut me off, and it sends me into a rage. I then feel like a fraud because its not a very Christlike thing to do , especially on the way to church. Anger is one of, if not my most major vice , and while chapter 26 talks about using a quick prayer to keep from giving in, it seems that anger is an automatic reaction....
Friday, November 20, 2009
Day 25 Trouble
Question of the Day: What problem in my life has caused the greatest growth in me?
Thus far, this chapter has spoken to me the most. Day 25 discussed growth as a Christian in times of trouble. God uses problems in our lives to help us mature and grow, and learn to deal with adversity. This rings true for me. For the past couple of years, I felt like I was stuck. I hated my job, and I did not feel like I was where I should be in my life. This caused great frustration and often times resentment and anger towards God, I often asked why me? As time grew on I began to get back into church and the Word, and despite the many times when I just did not feel like praying or going to church because of my anger or sadness, I forced myself to go and forced myself to pray. The words spoken at church often seems as if they were just for me. I began to feel comfort and realized God has something special for me up the road. Although I often felt this, the fact that it was taking so long was bothersome.
There were times when things got so bad I felt like God didn't care and even thought my misery amused Him; however something made me keep going and no matter what I could not stop believing in Him. Quite recently, God answered my prayers and it seems as though my life may be finally starting. Now I don't expect everything to be perfect and I 'm quite sure there will continue to be new problems and tough times, I think, or at least I hope, this time around I will have more have even more faith and wait on God.
Thus far, this chapter has spoken to me the most. Day 25 discussed growth as a Christian in times of trouble. God uses problems in our lives to help us mature and grow, and learn to deal with adversity. This rings true for me. For the past couple of years, I felt like I was stuck. I hated my job, and I did not feel like I was where I should be in my life. This caused great frustration and often times resentment and anger towards God, I often asked why me? As time grew on I began to get back into church and the Word, and despite the many times when I just did not feel like praying or going to church because of my anger or sadness, I forced myself to go and forced myself to pray. The words spoken at church often seems as if they were just for me. I began to feel comfort and realized God has something special for me up the road. Although I often felt this, the fact that it was taking so long was bothersome.
There were times when things got so bad I felt like God didn't care and even thought my misery amused Him; however something made me keep going and no matter what I could not stop believing in Him. Quite recently, God answered my prayers and it seems as though my life may be finally starting. Now I don't expect everything to be perfect and I 'm quite sure there will continue to be new problems and tough times, I think, or at least I hope, this time around I will have more have even more faith and wait on God.
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Day 24 Truth
Day 24: What has God already told me in his Word that I haven't started doing yet?
This is a very interesting chapter as it goes into detail the need to read the Bible. I have started reading it several times, but whenever I get half way through; that's when I hit a wall, something in my life would happen to keep me from wanting to read anymore, I get too busy or frustrated. What has God told me in his Word that I haven't stated doing?.. start reading the Bible. I'm going to start over from Genesis and continue into Revelations. ( Is it me or is anyone else scared of Revelations?) While time and circumstances haven't permitted me to do so , I am also thinking of attending a bible study class. Now I'm not going to become one of the fanatical super religious people, that all seems fake to me, but I will no longer be ashamed to call on God so all you heathens and naysayers can go kick rocks!
This is a very interesting chapter as it goes into detail the need to read the Bible. I have started reading it several times, but whenever I get half way through; that's when I hit a wall, something in my life would happen to keep me from wanting to read anymore, I get too busy or frustrated. What has God told me in his Word that I haven't stated doing?.. start reading the Bible. I'm going to start over from Genesis and continue into Revelations. ( Is it me or is anyone else scared of Revelations?) While time and circumstances haven't permitted me to do so , I am also thinking of attending a bible study class. Now I'm not going to become one of the fanatical super religious people, that all seems fake to me, but I will no longer be ashamed to call on God so all you heathens and naysayers can go kick rocks!
Monday, November 16, 2009
Day 23 Grow
What is one area where I need to stop thinking my way and start thinking God's way?
Day 23 talks about growing as a Christian and spiritual maturity. Some people are unable or refuse to grow because they are intent on doing things their own way and thinking in old ways. According to the chapter we must not only rely on our own efforts to change because willpower will only get us so far; its the reason why so many of us fail diets, and only continue New Year's resolutions for a month or so. While we have the intent of changing our old ways, we still reflect in old habits and eventually go back to them. When trying to change and grown in Christ we must first change the way we think and give up on old habits. After that God takes care of the rest.
With regards to the aforementioned question, I need to stop thinking my way in general, however if I had to pinpoint one area I would have to say its with the company I keep. Some people I know do not have my best interests in mind and are only keeping down and away from what God wants from me.
Day 23 talks about growing as a Christian and spiritual maturity. Some people are unable or refuse to grow because they are intent on doing things their own way and thinking in old ways. According to the chapter we must not only rely on our own efforts to change because willpower will only get us so far; its the reason why so many of us fail diets, and only continue New Year's resolutions for a month or so. While we have the intent of changing our old ways, we still reflect in old habits and eventually go back to them. When trying to change and grown in Christ we must first change the way we think and give up on old habits. After that God takes care of the rest.
With regards to the aforementioned question, I need to stop thinking my way in general, however if I had to pinpoint one area I would have to say its with the company I keep. Some people I know do not have my best interests in mind and are only keeping down and away from what God wants from me.
Sunday, November 15, 2009
Day 22
Day 22 starts the final purpose of the three... to be Christlike. The question of the day is, "In what area of my life do I need to ask for the Spirit's power to be like Christ today?"
This chapter goes into how and why we need to be more Christlike. This does not mean we will be like God or become gods ourselves. Since we're made in His image and likeness, it basically means that we should also have characteristics of God- be loving, kind, honest, etc. As far as this question goes, I think the area of my life that I need the most help is trust. By trust I don't mean trusting others, I mean trusting God (which in turn leads to full obedience). For some reason I seem to believe that the way I want things to work out will always be the right way. I think my problem is I just don't like not knowing, and to know everything I have to be in control of everything. It's something to continue to work on. This walk is a continual process, its not going to all come to me one day and I'll finally get everything right... I am human.
This chapter goes into how and why we need to be more Christlike. This does not mean we will be like God or become gods ourselves. Since we're made in His image and likeness, it basically means that we should also have characteristics of God- be loving, kind, honest, etc. As far as this question goes, I think the area of my life that I need the most help is trust. By trust I don't mean trusting others, I mean trusting God (which in turn leads to full obedience). For some reason I seem to believe that the way I want things to work out will always be the right way. I think my problem is I just don't like not knowing, and to know everything I have to be in control of everything. It's something to continue to work on. This walk is a continual process, its not going to all come to me one day and I'll finally get everything right... I am human.
Friday, November 13, 2009
Day 21
Doesn't apply...next question. I'm honestly getting tired of writing about this book, bu I made a committment so after a bit of a hiatus, I've started again...till tomorrow.
Friday, October 16, 2009
Reconciliation
Day 20:Who do I need to restore a broken relationship with today?
This is a very personal question so I won’t go into that. However I will discuss a little bit about this chapter.
Day 20 talks about restoring broken relationships. It pretty much discusses that we need to be open with one another, reconcile with the person first and then work on the issue, accept your responsibility in the conflict, etc. The chapter even says that we should not disconnect ourselves with the other person. I’m not sure how practical this is. There are some instances where you just have to part ways with someone, Christian or not. I have a few instances where this is the case. I forgive the people that have made transgressions against me or done things I am against, however for those circumstances it is best not to continue to the relationship. These however are extreme circumstances.
This is a very personal question so I won’t go into that. However I will discuss a little bit about this chapter.
Day 20 talks about restoring broken relationships. It pretty much discusses that we need to be open with one another, reconcile with the person first and then work on the issue, accept your responsibility in the conflict, etc. The chapter even says that we should not disconnect ourselves with the other person. I’m not sure how practical this is. There are some instances where you just have to part ways with someone, Christian or not. I have a few instances where this is the case. I forgive the people that have made transgressions against me or done things I am against, however for those circumstances it is best not to continue to the relationship. These however are extreme circumstances.
Thursday, October 15, 2009
More on Community
Day 19: How can I help cultivate today the characteristics of real community in my small group and church?
I can't really answer this question as I don't really belong to either. I can however discuss what I can do in general while working towards finding a small group or church. Day 19 discusses 5 characteristics we should have in relating to one another; honesty, humility, courtesy, confidentiality, and frequency. First be honest but gentle, don't criticize someone if you see they are going the wrong way but try to help them get back on track. The second characteristic is humility- we are all sinners, don't be ashamed to admit you're wrong or need help with your walk, do not place your self higher than anyone else or become any one's judge- its God's job not yours. Third, have patience and understanding even with the most difficult people as they are still part of God's family. Fourth is confidentiality, in a nutshell, don't be a gossip, its unChristianlike and will only lead to strife, bitterness and confusion- God is not the author of confusion!. Last is frequency, continue to go to church and small church groups, being in regular contact with people will help to build relationships.
All of the characteristics mentioned above are things that people should do in general and are sometimes difficult. For example, when you care about someone, you try to spare their feelings and let things slide because you don't want to offend them or have resent you. However a true friend doesn't cosign on nonsense. I'd rather have someone tell me I am going the wrong way (in a nice way of course) than let me fall down a ditch. This is especially crucial since that ditch is hell!
As I mentioned in previous blogs I am in the process of finding my church home and already have a few people I can fellowship with. I am hoping to use what I have learned in the last few chapters, especially this one, once that has been established. I am happy to say that it seems I getting close. I will continue to pray on it, and hope anyone who reads this will pray for me as well.
I can't really answer this question as I don't really belong to either. I can however discuss what I can do in general while working towards finding a small group or church. Day 19 discusses 5 characteristics we should have in relating to one another; honesty, humility, courtesy, confidentiality, and frequency. First be honest but gentle, don't criticize someone if you see they are going the wrong way but try to help them get back on track. The second characteristic is humility- we are all sinners, don't be ashamed to admit you're wrong or need help with your walk, do not place your self higher than anyone else or become any one's judge- its God's job not yours. Third, have patience and understanding even with the most difficult people as they are still part of God's family. Fourth is confidentiality, in a nutshell, don't be a gossip, its unChristianlike and will only lead to strife, bitterness and confusion- God is not the author of confusion!. Last is frequency, continue to go to church and small church groups, being in regular contact with people will help to build relationships.
All of the characteristics mentioned above are things that people should do in general and are sometimes difficult. For example, when you care about someone, you try to spare their feelings and let things slide because you don't want to offend them or have resent you. However a true friend doesn't cosign on nonsense. I'd rather have someone tell me I am going the wrong way (in a nice way of course) than let me fall down a ditch. This is especially crucial since that ditch is hell!
As I mentioned in previous blogs I am in the process of finding my church home and already have a few people I can fellowship with. I am hoping to use what I have learned in the last few chapters, especially this one, once that has been established. I am happy to say that it seems I getting close. I will continue to pray on it, and hope anyone who reads this will pray for me as well.
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Day 18 Life Together
Day 18 Question: What one step can I take today to connect with another believer at a more genuine, heart to heart level?
Day 18 discusses communication and fellowship with believers. It discusses the fact that people should be more involved in the lives of others, not out of nosiness but out of sympathy, consideration and concern. While we can not do this with everyone as there are so many people, we should have a small group of friends/believers in which we reflect, socialize and get to know.
At first I had a little bit of trouble with this as I am a very solitary person. I keep very few people close to me and none of them know everything about me. However when thinking about the aforementioned question, I realized that while I do connect with others I can still do more. I will not let everyone into my life because in this world you can't trust everyone and just because someone talks about God doesn't mean he couldn't be a demon in disguise. I will continue to socialize with others but I will make an extra effort to at least speak to someone new at church every week.
Day 18 discusses communication and fellowship with believers. It discusses the fact that people should be more involved in the lives of others, not out of nosiness but out of sympathy, consideration and concern. While we can not do this with everyone as there are so many people, we should have a small group of friends/believers in which we reflect, socialize and get to know.
At first I had a little bit of trouble with this as I am a very solitary person. I keep very few people close to me and none of them know everything about me. However when thinking about the aforementioned question, I realized that while I do connect with others I can still do more. I will not let everyone into my life because in this world you can't trust everyone and just because someone talks about God doesn't mean he couldn't be a demon in disguise. I will continue to socialize with others but I will make an extra effort to at least speak to someone new at church every week.
Saturday, October 10, 2009
A Place to Belong
Day 17: Does my level of involvement in my local church demonstrate that I love and am committed to God’s Family?
It has taken me quite some time to realize that I should start going to church. I used to believe that church wasn’t necessary, as long as I believed in God it would be fine since my relationship with God is personal. There was a point when I was antichurch, when I did not want to go because I saw things within various churches that I became disgusted with. I decided then that church wasn’t for me. It wasn’t till about a couple of years ago that God put it in my heart to give church another try. Since then while I have only gone to church on and off, I have been searching for the right church. While I realize that there is no such thing as a perfect church, I am hoping to realize which church family I belong with.
As Day 17, has described, I am an “attender” not a member of church. These are people who go to church but do not belong and do not serve in any kind of ministry. I have yet to be baptized or become an official member of any church. However I know that I will get there. Day 17, urges reader who are “attenders” to become members of a local church. I am going to do so but not take it likely, because there is no such thing as a perfect church; I refuse to be part of something that teaches false doctrine or practices. Thus far some of the churches I have attended have been great, at this point, it’s taking the next step and finally choosing the church in which I have the most connection with members.
It has taken me quite some time to realize that I should start going to church. I used to believe that church wasn’t necessary, as long as I believed in God it would be fine since my relationship with God is personal. There was a point when I was antichurch, when I did not want to go because I saw things within various churches that I became disgusted with. I decided then that church wasn’t for me. It wasn’t till about a couple of years ago that God put it in my heart to give church another try. Since then while I have only gone to church on and off, I have been searching for the right church. While I realize that there is no such thing as a perfect church, I am hoping to realize which church family I belong with.
As Day 17, has described, I am an “attender” not a member of church. These are people who go to church but do not belong and do not serve in any kind of ministry. I have yet to be baptized or become an official member of any church. However I know that I will get there. Day 17, urges reader who are “attenders” to become members of a local church. I am going to do so but not take it likely, because there is no such thing as a perfect church; I refuse to be part of something that teaches false doctrine or practices. Thus far some of the churches I have attended have been great, at this point, it’s taking the next step and finally choosing the church in which I have the most connection with members.
Friday, October 9, 2009
Relationship Building
Day 16: Honestly, are my relationships my first priority? How can I ensure that they are?
My relationships are not my first priority, because in all honesty I don’t have that many relationships to maintain. I am learning to cut toxic people out of my life; users, abusers, and people who have negative things to say because I am a believer. I need to start over with my relationships. As I mentioned in the last blog post, I am going to attempt to build the relationships I already have and gain new ones. Hopefully I will now have the wisdom to pick proper people to be in my life.
My relationships are not my first priority, because in all honesty I don’t have that many relationships to maintain. I am learning to cut toxic people out of my life; users, abusers, and people who have negative things to say because I am a believer. I need to start over with my relationships. As I mentioned in the last blog post, I am going to attempt to build the relationships I already have and gain new ones. Hopefully I will now have the wisdom to pick proper people to be in my life.
Thursday, October 8, 2009
Day 15 Friendships and Family
Day 15
How can I start treating believers like members of my own family?
Day 15 goes into how as a believer, I am part of a family with other believers. My problem is I’m not exactly a social person; granted I can be when necessary but I find people exhausting. As I am also an introvert, it takes me a while to get comfortable around people, and for them to get to know me.
To answer the above question, there are a few things I can do just like everyone else. I can befriend fellow believers, listen to them, and become more involved and social while in church. I realize this is critical as God wants us all to be in fellowship; however I am not the most social person. I have given this thought, and the only solution I could come up with is to continue to be in fellowship with those who I already know and continue to grow in that, and then possibly through these people meet others who share the same beliefs. This may seem like a simple solution to a very simple question, but to an introvert like me this is a lot of work.
How can I start treating believers like members of my own family?
Day 15 goes into how as a believer, I am part of a family with other believers. My problem is I’m not exactly a social person; granted I can be when necessary but I find people exhausting. As I am also an introvert, it takes me a while to get comfortable around people, and for them to get to know me.
To answer the above question, there are a few things I can do just like everyone else. I can befriend fellow believers, listen to them, and become more involved and social while in church. I realize this is critical as God wants us all to be in fellowship; however I am not the most social person. I have given this thought, and the only solution I could come up with is to continue to be in fellowship with those who I already know and continue to grow in that, and then possibly through these people meet others who share the same beliefs. This may seem like a simple solution to a very simple question, but to an introvert like me this is a lot of work.
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Presence- Day 14
Day 14: How can I stay focused on God’s presence, especially when he feels distant?
This chapter really spoke to me. For the longest time, I thought that I had to feel something in order to be close to God. This chapter says I don’t. I am still wondering about this joy that everyone seems to talk about. So to answer the question above, I don’t really have to do anything. I KNOW He exists and is always there, even though I have never felt anything. It’s not about feeling it’s about believing. According to this chapter I‘ve been on target. I pray and worship or at least try to even when I don’t feel like it. Even if I am angry with Him, I’ll let Him know how I feel because He wants me to be honest. That’s all I have to keep doing! It’s hard but I’m going to keep trying!
This chapter really spoke to me. For the longest time, I thought that I had to feel something in order to be close to God. This chapter says I don’t. I am still wondering about this joy that everyone seems to talk about. So to answer the question above, I don’t really have to do anything. I KNOW He exists and is always there, even though I have never felt anything. It’s not about feeling it’s about believing. According to this chapter I‘ve been on target. I pray and worship or at least try to even when I don’t feel like it. Even if I am angry with Him, I’ll let Him know how I feel because He wants me to be honest. That’s all I have to keep doing! It’s hard but I’m going to keep trying!
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Day 13
Day 13
What is more pleasing to God, my worship in public or private?
I have no idea. This chapter focuses on how to worship. The four criteria are to be accurate, authentic, thoughtful and practical. I try to maintain these criteria in my prayer life. My prayer life reflects who I am. I make noise when I feel the need but I am mostly quite. I prefer prayer in private than in public. I don’t feel the need to make everyone know when and how I pray- it’s not necessary. I don’t jump up and down, scream, pass out or speak in tongues. I appreciate that some people have that spiritual connection to do so but I suppose mine is much more subdued.
One of my favorite radio church programs recently spoke about this. Everyone’s prayer life is different, it reflects everyone’s personalities. There is no one way to worship. As long as you do it whole heartedly, honestly and truthfully, you can’t go wrong.
What is more pleasing to God, my worship in public or private?
I have no idea. This chapter focuses on how to worship. The four criteria are to be accurate, authentic, thoughtful and practical. I try to maintain these criteria in my prayer life. My prayer life reflects who I am. I make noise when I feel the need but I am mostly quite. I prefer prayer in private than in public. I don’t feel the need to make everyone know when and how I pray- it’s not necessary. I don’t jump up and down, scream, pass out or speak in tongues. I appreciate that some people have that spiritual connection to do so but I suppose mine is much more subdued.
One of my favorite radio church programs recently spoke about this. Everyone’s prayer life is different, it reflects everyone’s personalities. There is no one way to worship. As long as you do it whole heartedly, honestly and truthfully, you can’t go wrong.
Monday, October 5, 2009
Practical Choices
Day 12 asks what kinds of practical choices I can make to be closer to God. It also discusses developing a friendship with Him. As I read, I noticed a part of the chapter that mentioned that some people believe that Christians pray due to fear or obligation. This part of the chapter really spoke to me, because growing up, that was my reason for prayer; I thought it was something I had to do otherwise a great giant power would strike me dead at any moment. While I don’t necessarily believe this any longer, a part of this belief is still with me. It’s hard to develop love or friendship with someone that you spent your life in fear of. Reading the bible has helped but I’m still waiting to feel something, I’m not sure what it is yet, but I’ll know when its there.
Friday, October 2, 2009
My New BFF
Day 11 discusses ways to think about God more often throughout the day, in this way we are able to know Him and develop the friendship He wants with us. The chapter goes into how God wants be our best friend. This concept made me laugh at first. After more thought, I realized that it makes sense. God knows me better than any of my friends do, and when they fail me, He won’t.
So back to the question of the day… What can I do to remind myself to think about God and talk to Him more often throughout the day?
I’ve thought about the numerous things I have to do throughout the day, work, deal with dumb people’s drama, write this blog, etc, and how I can manage to think more about God with all this going on.
My solution is to think about Him with every new thing I do, even better yet, since the people at work annoy me so much, I need to think about God then. Once I do that not only will I develop a better relationship with Him, but I can finally learn to ignore their nonsense and not lose my cool. God is the key to peace and serenity.
So back to the question of the day… What can I do to remind myself to think about God and talk to Him more often throughout the day?
I’ve thought about the numerous things I have to do throughout the day, work, deal with dumb people’s drama, write this blog, etc, and how I can manage to think more about God with all this going on.
My solution is to think about Him with every new thing I do, even better yet, since the people at work annoy me so much, I need to think about God then. Once I do that not only will I develop a better relationship with Him, but I can finally learn to ignore their nonsense and not lose my cool. God is the key to peace and serenity.
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Day 10
Day 10: What areas in my life am I holding back from God?
This chapter is a follow up to chapter 9. I did not need much time to consider my answer to this question. It is basically the same as my answer to yesterday’s question. To be quite honest, I’m not sure if there is anything in my life that I don’t hold back from God. Do I believe, yes, do I trust….that’s another story. It’s not that I don’t know God only wants what is best for me , the issue is knowing what I’m supposed to do. Day 10 gives the answer as to why people hold back or rather refuse to surrender to God. The 3 reasons are fear, pride, and confusion.
I have always been the type of person that needs to know things ahead of time…of course so that I can control my surroundings. If I don’t know what’s going on I become anxious. This goes along with my refusal to surrender. I don’t know what God wants from me and therefore I often rely on myself because I know myself and feel that I know what’s best for me. I should know by now that my Creator knows me better than I know myself, He knew me before I even existed.
The fact is I can’t know everything, I’m not God. If I trust Him, and I’ll be better off. I need to learn to let go and stop trying to control my surroundings. This however is easier said than done. I think it’s because I still don’t know enough about God and haven’t studied enough. Once I have done that I will able to accept my limitations and finally be able to let go.
This chapter is a follow up to chapter 9. I did not need much time to consider my answer to this question. It is basically the same as my answer to yesterday’s question. To be quite honest, I’m not sure if there is anything in my life that I don’t hold back from God. Do I believe, yes, do I trust….that’s another story. It’s not that I don’t know God only wants what is best for me , the issue is knowing what I’m supposed to do. Day 10 gives the answer as to why people hold back or rather refuse to surrender to God. The 3 reasons are fear, pride, and confusion.
I have always been the type of person that needs to know things ahead of time…of course so that I can control my surroundings. If I don’t know what’s going on I become anxious. This goes along with my refusal to surrender. I don’t know what God wants from me and therefore I often rely on myself because I know myself and feel that I know what’s best for me. I should know by now that my Creator knows me better than I know myself, He knew me before I even existed.
The fact is I can’t know everything, I’m not God. If I trust Him, and I’ll be better off. I need to learn to let go and stop trying to control my surroundings. This however is easier said than done. I think it’s because I still don’t know enough about God and haven’t studied enough. Once I have done that I will able to accept my limitations and finally be able to let go.
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Day 9 Trust
Day 9 :
What areas in my life should I trust God with?
Obviously all areas. Do I however, no. That's part of why I'm reading this book. Some people are able to hear God clearly, I don't even hear a whisper. Maybe they are closer to Him, maybe He hasn't spoken to me yet, or maybe I just can't hear Him. What I've tried to do is read and follow my conscious. Often times I compromise my relationship with God and do what I want to do instead of doing what I know is right. These are things that I struggle with on a daily basis. Its difficult to follow God when the rest of the world says otherwise. The reason sin is so tempting is because its fun and sometimes a quick way out of a situation; if it wasn't we wouldn't all do it. I just have to remember to trust God in all things, even when my way seems easier. These sins have consequences and at some point you have to pay for them. As my mother always used to say, what sweetens you now will sour you later.
What areas in my life should I trust God with?
Obviously all areas. Do I however, no. That's part of why I'm reading this book. Some people are able to hear God clearly, I don't even hear a whisper. Maybe they are closer to Him, maybe He hasn't spoken to me yet, or maybe I just can't hear Him. What I've tried to do is read and follow my conscious. Often times I compromise my relationship with God and do what I want to do instead of doing what I know is right. These are things that I struggle with on a daily basis. Its difficult to follow God when the rest of the world says otherwise. The reason sin is so tempting is because its fun and sometimes a quick way out of a situation; if it wasn't we wouldn't all do it. I just have to remember to trust God in all things, even when my way seems easier. These sins have consequences and at some point you have to pay for them. As my mother always used to say, what sweetens you now will sour you later.
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Day 8 Worship
Day 8 discusses doing things for God’s pleasure. Anything that gives glory to God is called worship. This can be anything you do, from singing to dancing, to working on a project, if it’s done for God, its worship.
It seems that the last few questions at the end of the chapter are a bit…simple. I mean they don’t really require any deep thought which results in pretty superficial writing. Day 8’s question asks what common tasks could I do for Jesus. There are some things I do in honor of God, for one I volunteer. I find that doing for others is part of fellowship with people as well as helping those in need. The feeling I get from doing this work is only secondary and not the main purpose for volunteering.
These latest blog entries are my other form of worship. I am reading The Purpose Driven Life and writing about it to figure out exactly what I’m supposed to do for Him and grow closer.
On a side note, in this world, anything that isn’t sex, drugs or mania is sometimes considered corny, cheesy, square, whatever word you care to use. In all honestly I’m a bit shy about posting all this religious stuff, but I suppose that’s what this is all about. Maybe this is the purpose of this blog after all.
It seems that the last few questions at the end of the chapter are a bit…simple. I mean they don’t really require any deep thought which results in pretty superficial writing. Day 8’s question asks what common tasks could I do for Jesus. There are some things I do in honor of God, for one I volunteer. I find that doing for others is part of fellowship with people as well as helping those in need. The feeling I get from doing this work is only secondary and not the main purpose for volunteering.
These latest blog entries are my other form of worship. I am reading The Purpose Driven Life and writing about it to figure out exactly what I’m supposed to do for Him and grow closer.
On a side note, in this world, anything that isn’t sex, drugs or mania is sometimes considered corny, cheesy, square, whatever word you care to use. In all honestly I’m a bit shy about posting all this religious stuff, but I suppose that’s what this is all about. Maybe this is the purpose of this blog after all.
Sunday, September 20, 2009
The Reason for Everything
The last chapter of this section is about giving glory to God. The question of this chapter is how I can make time in my day to recognize God's glory. This is simple. God is everywhere. Simply look at nature, wheter out in the woods or just looking out the window, I'm able to recognize His presence. He did create it all.
Saturday, September 19, 2009
Life is a Temporary Assignment
Chapter 6 discusses how time on this Earth is fleeting in comparison to life in eternity. I t goes on to say that because life on Earth is a small portion of our lives, we shouldn’t be worried about the material things in this life. It says that we shouldn’t be focused on fancy cars or obsessed with one day obtaining $500 name brand shoes. In the end none of this matters. What does matter is what we do while on this earth, because that affects how our lives will be in eternity.
This is another hard chapter for me to come to terms with; however I am beginning to understand more and more. While I have never wanted to be rich and famous, I have always tried to do my best and hope that I can be a success and make an impact on the world… in a good way. I wanted to leave some kind of legacy. Since we are not to be concerned of the things of the world, and will not be here for long, does this mean that we shouldn’t strive to be as successful as possible? This is my confusion with this chapter. I’m not sure that this is what is meant by this but I could be wrong. I think maybe God wants us to strive to be the best, doctor, attorney, businessperson, etc that we possibly can be, but not focus our whole lives on it, and not be obsessed with it. In the end it doesn’t matter how many mansions you owned or how much your wardrobe costs, but how you lived your life on this earth while you had the chance. I think this chapter tells people that we should be more well rounded; love God, love life and make the best of this world while we’re in it, live in the world, use it for what you can but don’t be of the world.
This is another hard chapter for me to come to terms with; however I am beginning to understand more and more. While I have never wanted to be rich and famous, I have always tried to do my best and hope that I can be a success and make an impact on the world… in a good way. I wanted to leave some kind of legacy. Since we are not to be concerned of the things of the world, and will not be here for long, does this mean that we shouldn’t strive to be as successful as possible? This is my confusion with this chapter. I’m not sure that this is what is meant by this but I could be wrong. I think maybe God wants us to strive to be the best, doctor, attorney, businessperson, etc that we possibly can be, but not focus our whole lives on it, and not be obsessed with it. In the end it doesn’t matter how many mansions you owned or how much your wardrobe costs, but how you lived your life on this earth while you had the chance. I think this chapter tells people that we should be more well rounded; love God, love life and make the best of this world while we’re in it, live in the world, use it for what you can but don’t be of the world.
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Day 5 Questions
Day 5 Questions
I realize that I’m quite late with reading and writing about Day 5, but it’s only because I am still having a hard time grasping Day 4. Day 5 asks us to question the way we see life. Some see life as a rollercoaster, some as a battle and some as a test. When looking at it through God’s point of view, life is a test and a trust. Life is a test because every struggle and even every gift that we are given is a test. Some people forget God when all is well and turn to him in times of need. Others like myself, tend to give up on God when things go wrong. Everything in life is a test.
Everything in life is also based on trust. Everything we are given we are trusted with to take care, this goes for money, our bodies, etc. Maybe this is why I have not accomplished everything I expected to. Maybe I somehow am still being prepared for what is yet to come.
If all this is true my biggest test in life has been my current job. Everyday I struggle not to lose my cool. I am being tested on how much patience I can have for the idiots I work with and idiots in general. I am learning the art of patience and tolerance. I am learning that although people may not appreciate my work or accomplishments, I have to appreciate them.
As for what God has entrusted to me? I have no idea. Yes my body is a temple and I should take care of it, but what has been specifically entrusted to me? Maybe it’s my writing. I hope I’ll know when I’m done with this book.
I realize that I’m quite late with reading and writing about Day 5, but it’s only because I am still having a hard time grasping Day 4. Day 5 asks us to question the way we see life. Some see life as a rollercoaster, some as a battle and some as a test. When looking at it through God’s point of view, life is a test and a trust. Life is a test because every struggle and even every gift that we are given is a test. Some people forget God when all is well and turn to him in times of need. Others like myself, tend to give up on God when things go wrong. Everything in life is a test.
Everything in life is also based on trust. Everything we are given we are trusted with to take care, this goes for money, our bodies, etc. Maybe this is why I have not accomplished everything I expected to. Maybe I somehow am still being prepared for what is yet to come.
If all this is true my biggest test in life has been my current job. Everyday I struggle not to lose my cool. I am being tested on how much patience I can have for the idiots I work with and idiots in general. I am learning the art of patience and tolerance. I am learning that although people may not appreciate my work or accomplishments, I have to appreciate them.
As for what God has entrusted to me? I have no idea. Yes my body is a temple and I should take care of it, but what has been specifically entrusted to me? Maybe it’s my writing. I hope I’ll know when I’m done with this book.
Thursday, September 3, 2009
Day 4
Not much to say about day 4. It asks us to think about our mortality, that this life is not the end and that there is an eternity. Day 4 says that we shouldn’t be afraid of death because there is a hereafter. Although I believe it I can’t wrap my mind around it. The end of the chapters asks the reader to think about what they need to stop doing, and what they may need to start, now that he/she understands that what we do now we pay for in the hereafter, for better or worse. I’ve figured out what I need to do and what I should stop; it’s going to be a hard task to accomplish. I’m not going to go into what these things are. They are things that everyone struggles with. It’s going to be difficult to change habits I’ve had for as long as I’ve been on this earth but I’m up for the challenge.
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
Day 3 Driven
The third day of this 40 day journey asks us to question what our lives are driven by. Some are driven by money and possessions, some by guilt, some from the need for approval, far or anger and resentment. All of which are negative. As usual the chapter ends with a reflection question, what would others say my life is driven by and what do I want it to be? The answer to this question came to me very easily. My life has been driven by 2 things, my own high expectations and spite.
The fact that my life has been driven by my own expectations is obvious. I have a plan and goals for my life, therefore I work towards those goals, regardless of how far fetched they may be. This is for my own personal satisfaction. However being driven by spite is another story. When I say that I’m driven by spite, I don’t mean that I do things just to hurt people. When someone tells me I can’t do something, I do it in spite of them. I am no longer solely driven by my goals but by negative reactions to those goals.
In the beginning of my senior year of high school, it was time to apply to colleges. Prior to doing so, all students are required to go to guidance counselors to discuss their decisions. When I told my guidance counselor, that a certain school was one of my options, he told me that I would never get in. I applied anyway. I not only got in, but went to that college graduated, and was accepted into grad school. A week after I graduated from college, I went back to that guidance counselor and threw my degree in his face. While he did not remember telling me this, he said he was glad I came back to prove him wrong.
Fact is some people are motivated when they’re praised and falter when they negativity comes their way. I use negative reactions as motivation. The problem with this tactic is that sometimes it becomes more about proving the other person wrong than about achieving your goal in the first place. Being driven by goals is perfectly normal, I just need to remind myself that in the end its not about the other person, its about what I planned to accomplish and making sure it gets done for myself.
While I’m not sure what my purpose is yet I know it will not revolve around other people, their reactions or even my own wants but what God has decided for me. Until then……..
The fact that my life has been driven by my own expectations is obvious. I have a plan and goals for my life, therefore I work towards those goals, regardless of how far fetched they may be. This is for my own personal satisfaction. However being driven by spite is another story. When I say that I’m driven by spite, I don’t mean that I do things just to hurt people. When someone tells me I can’t do something, I do it in spite of them. I am no longer solely driven by my goals but by negative reactions to those goals.
In the beginning of my senior year of high school, it was time to apply to colleges. Prior to doing so, all students are required to go to guidance counselors to discuss their decisions. When I told my guidance counselor, that a certain school was one of my options, he told me that I would never get in. I applied anyway. I not only got in, but went to that college graduated, and was accepted into grad school. A week after I graduated from college, I went back to that guidance counselor and threw my degree in his face. While he did not remember telling me this, he said he was glad I came back to prove him wrong.
Fact is some people are motivated when they’re praised and falter when they negativity comes their way. I use negative reactions as motivation. The problem with this tactic is that sometimes it becomes more about proving the other person wrong than about achieving your goal in the first place. Being driven by goals is perfectly normal, I just need to remind myself that in the end its not about the other person, its about what I planned to accomplish and making sure it gets done for myself.
While I’m not sure what my purpose is yet I know it will not revolve around other people, their reactions or even my own wants but what God has decided for me. Until then……..
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Day 2 …Mom was Wrong!
Ok so I’m on day 2 of my journey. Day 2 is to reflect on ourselves. No matter how much we think life is meaningless or confused about life, we are not here by accident. My mother always told me that I wasn’t supposed to be born when I was. I wasn’t just a few weeks early but a few years. My mother had a set plan, when she’d get married, have kids, work etc., but as the old saying goes, while you’re making plans God is having a good laugh. When things don’t work out as you have planned, it’s because it just isn’t meant to be. This something many of us, including myself fail to realize. I always want things my way. I make plans and set schedules to accomplish my goals in life. I now realize that just because I have not achieved them doesn’t mean that I’m a failure, it just means that there is something bigger and better that I am going to do, I just don’t know it yet.
Day 2 also goes into looking at ourselves for who we are and appreciating it. Our personalities, the color of our eyes, hair, and skin have been designed specifically for us. This really caught my attention because many of us, especially women obsess about our looks; those with long noses want shorter petite ones, people with blue eyes buy contacts to have green eyes. We put so much emphasis, time and money into changing ourselves to be something we were not meant to be. We let one person; the media, society tell us that unless you are 5’11, 100 pounds with large double Ds and long flowing hair, you need to be fixed. I hate to be cheesy but if God wanted us to all look alike he would have made us that way.
I am not holier than thou, of course there have been times when I have wanted to change things about myself and even attempted to …. Funny enough they never worked out. God made me this way for a reason, who am I to tell Him He messed up? I look the way I do for a reason, if you don’t like it tough, I know I’m fine! For those of you who want a secular point of view here it is…. Look at those plastic looking people, fakes noses, fake boobs, fake everything…do you really want to look like that? You may actually beautiful and let your insecurities screw you up. The list of celebrities who were good looking but now are jacked up is a mile long….Meg Ryan, Elizabeth Taylor…and one in particular I will not mention out of respect but you know who else I’m talking about! Do you really want to go around looking like that? Is that real beauty? Like the song goes, "aint nothing like the real thing!"
Day 2 also goes into looking at ourselves for who we are and appreciating it. Our personalities, the color of our eyes, hair, and skin have been designed specifically for us. This really caught my attention because many of us, especially women obsess about our looks; those with long noses want shorter petite ones, people with blue eyes buy contacts to have green eyes. We put so much emphasis, time and money into changing ourselves to be something we were not meant to be. We let one person; the media, society tell us that unless you are 5’11, 100 pounds with large double Ds and long flowing hair, you need to be fixed. I hate to be cheesy but if God wanted us to all look alike he would have made us that way.
I am not holier than thou, of course there have been times when I have wanted to change things about myself and even attempted to …. Funny enough they never worked out. God made me this way for a reason, who am I to tell Him He messed up? I look the way I do for a reason, if you don’t like it tough, I know I’m fine! For those of you who want a secular point of view here it is…. Look at those plastic looking people, fakes noses, fake boobs, fake everything…do you really want to look like that? You may actually beautiful and let your insecurities screw you up. The list of celebrities who were good looking but now are jacked up is a mile long….Meg Ryan, Elizabeth Taylor…and one in particular I will not mention out of respect but you know who else I’m talking about! Do you really want to go around looking like that? Is that real beauty? Like the song goes, "aint nothing like the real thing!"
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
40 Days...Day1
’ve decided to take a different route for the next 40 blogs. Have any of you ever asked yourself what is the point, why am I here? I have too many times. In an effort to figure it out, I’ve decided to start and actually stick with reading The Purpose Driven Life. So far I’m on day one and this journey seems to be promising. The first day is to realize that we are not here for our own selfish purposes but for something greater. I recently updated my Facebook status and asked why God wasn’t answering me. I wondered if he wasn’t listening or if maybe I’m not listening close enough to his answer. I’ve decided its most likely the latter. I am reading this book in the hopes that I will learn to listen and finally receive my answers.
This may come as confusion to those who know me and have read my previous blog posts. How could a potty mouth smart aleck ponder about God? Well God loves sinners too. So the next forty days will be about reflection and hopefully some enlightenment. If anyone is reading The Purpose Driven Life as well me up maybe we can go over some things together. Till tomorrow……..
This may come as confusion to those who know me and have read my previous blog posts. How could a potty mouth smart aleck ponder about God? Well God loves sinners too. So the next forty days will be about reflection and hopefully some enlightenment. If anyone is reading The Purpose Driven Life as well me up maybe we can go over some things together. Till tomorrow……..
Monday, August 24, 2009
Smile?
Hello folks,
I’ve been away for a while but I’m back… no article today just some thoughts. While watching tv one day I saw a great commercial for the show Curb Your Enthusiasm. The lead character (sorry I have no clue who he is) was walking down the street minding his own business when some random woman walking past him tells him to smile. He then turns around and asks her to mind her own business. I found this commercial amusing because it has happened to me numerous times. Maybe when this happened, the guy from the show was having a bad day, although this is not usually the case for me. I mean really who goes around just smiling for no reason? And why are you so worried about my face? Maybe I’m in deep thought (which is usually the case). Maybe I’m not smiling because my dog just died. Maybe I have a bill I’m worried about…would you like to pay it for me? I’ve noticed that the only people that have approached me this way are men, (and some woman I work with that grew up with hippies) is this some kind of line you guys are using now? My usual response to some random person telling me to smile is to tell them to mind their business. Should I have another response, something nicer? I can’t think of anything, if you can let me know, until I’m telling people to mind their business or my personal favorite…kick rocks!!!!
I’ve been away for a while but I’m back… no article today just some thoughts. While watching tv one day I saw a great commercial for the show Curb Your Enthusiasm. The lead character (sorry I have no clue who he is) was walking down the street minding his own business when some random woman walking past him tells him to smile. He then turns around and asks her to mind her own business. I found this commercial amusing because it has happened to me numerous times. Maybe when this happened, the guy from the show was having a bad day, although this is not usually the case for me. I mean really who goes around just smiling for no reason? And why are you so worried about my face? Maybe I’m in deep thought (which is usually the case). Maybe I’m not smiling because my dog just died. Maybe I have a bill I’m worried about…would you like to pay it for me? I’ve noticed that the only people that have approached me this way are men, (and some woman I work with that grew up with hippies) is this some kind of line you guys are using now? My usual response to some random person telling me to smile is to tell them to mind their business. Should I have another response, something nicer? I can’t think of anything, if you can let me know, until I’m telling people to mind their business or my personal favorite…kick rocks!!!!
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Switched! The Role Reversals of Men and Women
The roles of men and women have been set in stone since the beginning of time. Men were meant to be the breadwinners, protectors of women and children, providers and supposedly the stronger of the sexes. In recent years however the roles of men and women have changed, if not completely reversed. During and after the feminist movement, as more and more women opted for careers instead of live filled with pearl necklaces, cupcakes, and cleaning. Women became more self reliant, and independent. Gone are the days when women asked their husbands for allowances, and only spent money on the house. Women are now choosing not to get married, not to have children, or even have children on their own.
With this cultural revolution, come the shifting of the roles of women and men. Men are no longer chivalrous, protectors. Instead they have become selfish, conniving, and just plain disgusting. This may sound like just another article from a bitter, angry lonely spinster, but on the contrary, I’m young cute and have no problems getting a date or keeping him interested. My problem is as with many other women, I am just plain tired of men without sense, ambition, goals, manners and to be frank, just don’t know their role.
No longer do men have manners or at least come up with corny lines, but now the most some of us can get are hoots, hollers, “yo ma let me holla at you”, “a yo”, and my personal favorite “psst”. Once on a cold December afternoon on the way back to the airport with heavy luggage in both arms, a fool (for he is not remotely close enough to a man to be called one) waited until I was half way down the block to yell “a yo shorty with the bags come here!”. This fool for some reason either thought he was so dreamy (this fool was fugly) or was dumb enough to expect me to run back to him so that he could engage me in mindless dribble to get in my pants. A real gentleman would have escorted me along my way and offered to help me with my bags (for ultimately the same goal but with a lot more tact). If it’s not brazen classless idiots, its spineless jellyfish men, men who refuse to make the first move, men who expect women to be the aggressor at all times. At first this will seem cute, even endearing, then its becomes annoying. A woman wants to know she is with a real man, not a chump or a push over who will bend at her every whim. Ladies I know you think you want this but trust me it gets old fast. It seems like there are only two extremes, are there any men in the middle?
Now as I write this I hope you are not given the impression that I am not grateful for the movement, it just seems that men are refusing to be men. This leads me to ask, have the roles completely switched? Are women too much like men? While women have always had the capacity, we now also have the legal right to vote, hold office, and maintain successful careers. Many women are bold, strong hard workers who use their intelligence to climb to the top. Some men are intimidated by this. I once dated a man that tried to degrade me because I worked from the bottom up and didn’t grow up with a silver spoon in my mouth as he did. Needless to say the testosterone in me wouldn’t allow it. (Yes women do have testosternone). It seems that there is no way to get around this. If you’re too strong then you want to be a man and its unacceptable. If you’re soft and traditional, then you’re a pushover or a gold-digger. So what’s a girl of the octs to do? I say we keep our rights and force men to go back to acting like men. Make them hold doors, expect them to have manners, and for the sake of all that is right in the world do not constantly come out of our pockets with that “I got it” business, at the very least go Dutch.
At the same time there are men who have taken the term equal and misconstrued it. They now think that because we are equal, that they no longer have to do ANY of the things they used to. Hello!!!!! YOU ARE STILL A MAN! If society still expects us to have children, and take care of the household (and now also have careers), men need to know their purpose! No I’m not saying a woman can’t or should not pay, but all the time, seriously? So to all the fools listening to Neyo think that independent means you never have to come out of pocket, think again. Yes an independent woman has her own and doesn’t need yours, but this doesn’t mean we are going to be your sugar mamas either. So get a job, and get a clue!
With this cultural revolution, come the shifting of the roles of women and men. Men are no longer chivalrous, protectors. Instead they have become selfish, conniving, and just plain disgusting. This may sound like just another article from a bitter, angry lonely spinster, but on the contrary, I’m young cute and have no problems getting a date or keeping him interested. My problem is as with many other women, I am just plain tired of men without sense, ambition, goals, manners and to be frank, just don’t know their role.
No longer do men have manners or at least come up with corny lines, but now the most some of us can get are hoots, hollers, “yo ma let me holla at you”, “a yo”, and my personal favorite “psst”. Once on a cold December afternoon on the way back to the airport with heavy luggage in both arms, a fool (for he is not remotely close enough to a man to be called one) waited until I was half way down the block to yell “a yo shorty with the bags come here!”. This fool for some reason either thought he was so dreamy (this fool was fugly) or was dumb enough to expect me to run back to him so that he could engage me in mindless dribble to get in my pants. A real gentleman would have escorted me along my way and offered to help me with my bags (for ultimately the same goal but with a lot more tact). If it’s not brazen classless idiots, its spineless jellyfish men, men who refuse to make the first move, men who expect women to be the aggressor at all times. At first this will seem cute, even endearing, then its becomes annoying. A woman wants to know she is with a real man, not a chump or a push over who will bend at her every whim. Ladies I know you think you want this but trust me it gets old fast. It seems like there are only two extremes, are there any men in the middle?
Now as I write this I hope you are not given the impression that I am not grateful for the movement, it just seems that men are refusing to be men. This leads me to ask, have the roles completely switched? Are women too much like men? While women have always had the capacity, we now also have the legal right to vote, hold office, and maintain successful careers. Many women are bold, strong hard workers who use their intelligence to climb to the top. Some men are intimidated by this. I once dated a man that tried to degrade me because I worked from the bottom up and didn’t grow up with a silver spoon in my mouth as he did. Needless to say the testosterone in me wouldn’t allow it. (Yes women do have testosternone). It seems that there is no way to get around this. If you’re too strong then you want to be a man and its unacceptable. If you’re soft and traditional, then you’re a pushover or a gold-digger. So what’s a girl of the octs to do? I say we keep our rights and force men to go back to acting like men. Make them hold doors, expect them to have manners, and for the sake of all that is right in the world do not constantly come out of our pockets with that “I got it” business, at the very least go Dutch.
At the same time there are men who have taken the term equal and misconstrued it. They now think that because we are equal, that they no longer have to do ANY of the things they used to. Hello!!!!! YOU ARE STILL A MAN! If society still expects us to have children, and take care of the household (and now also have careers), men need to know their purpose! No I’m not saying a woman can’t or should not pay, but all the time, seriously? So to all the fools listening to Neyo think that independent means you never have to come out of pocket, think again. Yes an independent woman has her own and doesn’t need yours, but this doesn’t mean we are going to be your sugar mamas either. So get a job, and get a clue!
Thursday, July 9, 2009
Higher Education, Lowered Expectations
The pursuit of higher education has been instilled in us, as the way to success. Young people especially those who grow up without, are encouraged to go to college to make something of themselves. It all seems so simple, college =career. Upon graduation we believe that our degrees will take us just about anywhere. However once we meet the real world, we are dealt a shocking blow. Not only must we compete with thousands of other grads for jobs, but somehow pay off thousands of dollars in student loans.
So you go to temp agencies, and work as receptionists or file clerks making $13 an hour; if you’re lucky you get an entry level position making $29,000/yr. You have 4 roommates to make ends meet and you drive a hooptie. This is not the life you expected to have; all your life you’ve been hoodwinked into believing that a college degree will take you anywhere but the only place its taken you to is into debt. You remember being told to dream big, that the world is at your fingertips, and you remember this while in your tiny already cramped living space. Meanwhile the guy that sits in the token booth makes $20,000 more than you do… did I mention he’s a high school drop out?
Is it me or is anyone else confused? You’ve just spent $60,000 (and still owe $55,000) on a degree in anthropology that you will never get use out of. The economy is a mess, prices for EVERYTHING are getting higher, yet your salary stays the same, not to mention the fact that with all the lay offs there’s a possibility that you will find yourself staring at a pink slip come Friday afternoon.
Once we get out of school, we often have no idea where to go from there. College taught me several things, many of which are only useful for Jeopardy. What college has failed to teach are the basic skills necessary for success. We are not taught how to interview, or even how to create a resume. People who come from poor backgrounds are deluded into thinking that now that they have a college degree they have made it. If I knew then what I know now, college may not have been a second thought for me. For example a great college course would have been office politics. Apparently its not how hard you work but how much butt you can kiss, and laugh at unfunny jokes otherwise you are not a team player (apparently work is supposed to be Comedy Central). College does not teach you how prove your worth without making your boss feel threatened, or how to put up with his or her snide remarks about how low on the totem pole you are.
College also does not teach you how to choose a career that’s right for you. Some saps that come from poor neighborhoods think that they can go to college and somehow give back to their community, myself included. What we are not told is that many people who are in public service (depending on the region you work in), especially the nonprofit world are well to do, whether from growing up with silver spoons in their mouths or having the good sense to have a career in the corporate world before becoming a hippie do-gooder. It is also not about what you know either; its about what who you know. The fact is if you grew up around people who were janitors and fork lift operators it is highly unlikely that you are going to know people who can help you get that executive position. It’s a cycle, no matter how much education you obtain, the moron whose father is the CFO is likely to get the job over you, case and point former president George W. Bush.
So what else is there to do but grin and bear it right? WRONG! Just as anything college is a business. They are to ensure customer satisfaction and give the customer what they paid for. I for one am not satisfied. I think we should be able to return our degrees and ask for a refund! We are stuck in a situation where we just can’t win. In a collaborative effort, we should all mail back our degrees and ask for a refund, and make sure you send them a copy of the receipt… that big fat notice from Sallie Mae!!!!!
Thanks for reading, feel free to post your opinions. You don't have to agree, just think about another perspective. Thanks to all supporters and even the haters. To those who feel the need to disrespect and refuse to open your minds, I have one thing to say to you…KICK ROCKS!
So you go to temp agencies, and work as receptionists or file clerks making $13 an hour; if you’re lucky you get an entry level position making $29,000/yr. You have 4 roommates to make ends meet and you drive a hooptie. This is not the life you expected to have; all your life you’ve been hoodwinked into believing that a college degree will take you anywhere but the only place its taken you to is into debt. You remember being told to dream big, that the world is at your fingertips, and you remember this while in your tiny already cramped living space. Meanwhile the guy that sits in the token booth makes $20,000 more than you do… did I mention he’s a high school drop out?
Is it me or is anyone else confused? You’ve just spent $60,000 (and still owe $55,000) on a degree in anthropology that you will never get use out of. The economy is a mess, prices for EVERYTHING are getting higher, yet your salary stays the same, not to mention the fact that with all the lay offs there’s a possibility that you will find yourself staring at a pink slip come Friday afternoon.
Once we get out of school, we often have no idea where to go from there. College taught me several things, many of which are only useful for Jeopardy. What college has failed to teach are the basic skills necessary for success. We are not taught how to interview, or even how to create a resume. People who come from poor backgrounds are deluded into thinking that now that they have a college degree they have made it. If I knew then what I know now, college may not have been a second thought for me. For example a great college course would have been office politics. Apparently its not how hard you work but how much butt you can kiss, and laugh at unfunny jokes otherwise you are not a team player (apparently work is supposed to be Comedy Central). College does not teach you how prove your worth without making your boss feel threatened, or how to put up with his or her snide remarks about how low on the totem pole you are.
College also does not teach you how to choose a career that’s right for you. Some saps that come from poor neighborhoods think that they can go to college and somehow give back to their community, myself included. What we are not told is that many people who are in public service (depending on the region you work in), especially the nonprofit world are well to do, whether from growing up with silver spoons in their mouths or having the good sense to have a career in the corporate world before becoming a hippie do-gooder. It is also not about what you know either; its about what who you know. The fact is if you grew up around people who were janitors and fork lift operators it is highly unlikely that you are going to know people who can help you get that executive position. It’s a cycle, no matter how much education you obtain, the moron whose father is the CFO is likely to get the job over you, case and point former president George W. Bush.
So what else is there to do but grin and bear it right? WRONG! Just as anything college is a business. They are to ensure customer satisfaction and give the customer what they paid for. I for one am not satisfied. I think we should be able to return our degrees and ask for a refund! We are stuck in a situation where we just can’t win. In a collaborative effort, we should all mail back our degrees and ask for a refund, and make sure you send them a copy of the receipt… that big fat notice from Sallie Mae!!!!!
Thanks for reading, feel free to post your opinions. You don't have to agree, just think about another perspective. Thanks to all supporters and even the haters. To those who feel the need to disrespect and refuse to open your minds, I have one thing to say to you…KICK ROCKS!
Monday, June 29, 2009
Please Be Advised
Hello readers! Thanks for taking the time to check out my blog. Let me introduce myself, my name is Still Waters. I’m called this because of my quiet nature. I don’t say much and I have never been the social butterfly, but when I do communicate, whatever I have to say or write will be thought provoking and sometimes shocking and hopefully spark a conversation. I’m not saying everything I say or write is going to have some kind of deep neo-soul eclectic message, but I hope it will get you to think outside of your norms. I’m a woman in my mid 20’s so a lot of what you read will reflect that. I’m an educated woman that knows what she’s about, and what she wants, but is still trying to figure out how to get it without selling her soul. It took me a while to figure out what was quite obvious to everyone else… my creativity, sarcasm, and tell it like it is regardless of the cost demeanor makes me the best writer I could possibly be.
This site will feature articles on things that impact my life and those around me. You will read my opinions on society, current events, culture, relationships, and whatever happens to have me scratch my head that day. I don’t claim to know it all, but I do have some kind of clue. Fact of the matter is a lot of the people I encounter on a daily basis are idiots. The things that they do and say are just remarkably dumb, so you may hear a bit about that too.
Some of you may agree with the articles, some of you may not. However please be advised that these articles are based on MY OPINION, and things that have happened in my life. Feel free to post your responses, good or bad. If you can’t take two seconds to maybe consider something different, then you’re just one of the idiots I referred to. I’m not saying agree with me, just think. So I’m going to end this entry as I will end all future entries, thanks to all supporters and even the haters. To those who feel the need to disrespect and refuse to open your minds, I have one thing to say to you…KICK ROCKS!
This site will feature articles on things that impact my life and those around me. You will read my opinions on society, current events, culture, relationships, and whatever happens to have me scratch my head that day. I don’t claim to know it all, but I do have some kind of clue. Fact of the matter is a lot of the people I encounter on a daily basis are idiots. The things that they do and say are just remarkably dumb, so you may hear a bit about that too.
Some of you may agree with the articles, some of you may not. However please be advised that these articles are based on MY OPINION, and things that have happened in my life. Feel free to post your responses, good or bad. If you can’t take two seconds to maybe consider something different, then you’re just one of the idiots I referred to. I’m not saying agree with me, just think. So I’m going to end this entry as I will end all future entries, thanks to all supporters and even the haters. To those who feel the need to disrespect and refuse to open your minds, I have one thing to say to you…KICK ROCKS!
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