Fog Writing: Reflections On Almost Everything

The Hunger Games

2011-09-12T13:36:00.001-05:00

March 23, 2012 NUFF SAID!

Hanna

2011-09-07T14:07:00.001-05:00

I had no idea what to expect when I sat down to watch Hanna last night. The movie truly began in the white bleakness of the wilderness and only lead to the bleakness of civilization. The film itself is well done. It has many of the typical “spy” or “action” thriller clichés, but the movie makes use of solid characters to pull off a very sleek film. The film is clearly framed from the beginning to the end with a classy, yet somewhat predictable, opening sequence that is echoed at the end of the movie. However, the movie is just plain fun to watch, and the lovely Saoirse Ronan is just outstanding as Hanna. She is able to pull off the innocent yet honest portrayal of this dangerous character. There are moments of humor and plenty of action. There are a few holes and questions I have but far less than the typical action movie. The story is engaging and well written. There are a few other things that Hanna’s father should have taught her before unleashing her on the world, but these are forgivable as they build the innocent side of the character up. At the very least, Saoirse Ronan’s excellent acting will have me clamoring to see anything else she appears in. I have been impressed by this young lady’s talent since The Lovely Bones and am excited to watch her career unfold. She certainly chooses wonderfully suited roles. Hanna is a fun action movie but has many images of violence and death. I would avoid letting the kids see it.

Let the Right One In

2011-09-07T13:22:00.002-05:00

Every now and then a horror movie comes along with such a sharp intellect that it leaves me a fan for life. Let the Right One In is an example of such a film. It has been some time ago that I was able to watch this movie, and it has taken me this long to truly figure out what I want to say about it. I still see the imagery in my mind and will never view falling snow the same way again. Every time I see it in the future, I will be transported to the opening scenes of this film. It is such a strange thing to say that violence has the quality of beauty and poetry. Most of the time violence is clumsy and stupid. Yet, somehow, Let the Right One In manages to harness violence and make it a work of art. The entire film is a comment on bullying and oppression. It is innocence that is not innocent. It is a paradox that I have a hard time resolving and the conundrum it creates in me disturbs me greatly. I simply did not expect what I saw when I sat down to watch the movie in the middle of the night this summer. I expected to see a typical vampire movie and all the expected formulas play out of the screen. Let the Right One In literally breaks the mold of the traditional vampire story. I think the fact that the writer of the novel was allowed to write the script made the film ring true. The film is creepy, scary, nurturing, and warm all at once. The vampire in question is despicable and sympathetic. She is the hero and the villain. Honestly, she is one of the most complex characters I have seen in a long time. She is certainly the most complex vampire to ever grace the silver screen. I won’t spoil anything for those who have not seen the film. Suffice it to say that the ending of the movie is worth the entire experience. It horrifies and makes you want to celebrate simultaneously. It is the most fantastic use of “mind” horror I have seen since the opening of Jaws. It certainly has gore, but most of the horror is thought driven. It is poetic and graceful. It gives me shudders of dread and delight at the same time. I plan on watching the remake Let Me In soon but fully expect it to not measure up to the original. Not for kids, gore and terrifying imagery.

Stake Land: A Road Movie With Bite

2011-08-24T11:35:00.001-05:00

Stake Land is a fantastically fun romp that I did not expect. The recent flux of poorly made vampire movies has left me wanting something more. Stake Land is just that movie. The premise of a vampire apocalypse that went world wide has been done before, and most of the elements in Stake Land have been used elsewhere. However, Stake Land is a cut above because of the way it uses these situations. The film is shot in a masterful way and the plot is full on exciting. The strongest point of the film is the characters and the narration is so perfect, that I found the movie easy to “believe.” The use of voice over is so powerful and uncanny that it truly makes the film. In all honesty, this is a frontier road movie that depicts the truest danger as human beings more so than the depraved vampires they must navigate. Of course we have a warped religious fanaticism running amok, but this film also shows an individual with a true sense of Christian faith. This is a rare thing. It was refreshing to see a Christian portrayed as “normal” and “moral” instead of a depraved loon. All in all, Stake Land is a fine film with an excellent musical score. The solid acting combined with the richness of camera work and use of color make this film a special event. I certainly can’t wait to see what the director does in the future. Not for kids; there is some cursing, gore, and disturbing violence to wade through.

A Tale of Two Sisters

2011-05-11T09:48:00.008-05:00

A Tale of Two Sisters is a perfect movie. Hands down this the best ghost story, or pseudo-ghost story, I have ever experienced. This movie is a masterpiece. It is difficult to describe the film as anything other than a feast for the eyes and senses. It is visually stunning with camera work that rivals anything I have ever seen. Those interested in cinematography will be masterfully impressed. The acting is Oscar quality, something that is rare in many foreign films. The musical score is wondrous. The writing is tight and is so subtle that the revelations that the script brings slowly broadsides the viewer. It drags us kicking and screaming into the dark world that emerges. The film has a creepy quality worthy of Lovecraft, a visual quality worthy of only the finest directors, and a story that is so character driven that I found myself riveted to the screen for the entire film. The horror that unfolds is a metaphor in reality for so many things. In a sense the film almost has a “Cinderella from Hell” quality. The sins of the characters are played out in such a psychological manner that the ghostly elements seem almost plausible. It is important to note that ghosts do not scare me. I do not believe in hauntings from the dead. Yet, this film is so rich that I was able to completely dispel my sense of disbelief and allow it to carry me away. The sense of loss and horror makes this film stick with you. It works its way into your subconscious, and honestly, had me very disturbed at its conclusion. I watched it in the daytime. It would be best enjoyed in total darkness in a chilly room with a pal or a date. I have purposely stayed completely away from plot details because the discovery of this masterpiece should come naturally and without warning. Suffice it to say that of the many films I have seen and reviewed, (I would guess thousands)this movie now sits in my top ten list of all time. For me, it is a rare thing when a movie unseats a film from my list. A Tale of Two Sisters does just that. Yes, folks, it is that good. I do not have a single criticism. The film is flawless. See it with fear and trembling, and be awed by the inspired way it goes about its task. It is a work of complete perfection. Not for kids as it contains frightening imagery and disturbing elements.

Three Things

2011-04-28T14:38:00.003-05:00

Everybody needs therapy. I don’t mean the “lie down on the couch and tell me your problems” type. What I mean is the type of therapy that goes straight to the soul and gets us through the days when we all wonder why we continue to try. I’m talking about the type that helps us, as the Bard said, to look on tempests without being shaken. How is it in a world where we have all these things to make our lives easier that they have become harder? Why is it that we have self esteem issues, financial issues, martial issues, and all these other things that make us get headaches? Have we walked the path so long that we have lost our way back to what is really important? Who erased the chalk marks on the wall? How do we find our place once more? I’m not sure how you do it, but I’ll tell you how I do it. I focus on three things. These things are odd, but I am an odd person. They are not cliché. I do not mean to talk expressively about family and friends, religion, or my job. Those things are truly at the core of all human beings and are far too complex for this essay. What I mean to write about are the simpler things that make the more complex things come into focus. It is about looking to the simple for higher inspiration. And with that, I submit to you my three things.

1. Going Barefoot:

It is a simple thing isn’t it? Taking off your shoes and just walking or sitting or playing “footsie” with your wife/husband is far underrated. Have you ever stopped to think about what the world has done to you with regards to this issue? Let me see if I have you pegged: You wake up in the morning, get out of bed, take a shower, get dressed, go to work, come home, get undressed, go to bed…..rinse and repeat. Have you stopped to think that your feet literally never touch the ground? Yes you walk on carpet, but you are never rooted to the dust from whence you came. There is something to be said about feeling the ground, the real ground, underneath your feet. Grass, or dirt, gives us that connection to creation that makes me remember why I’m here and just how fleeting my life is. It makes me feel real and absent from the artificial. It makes me remember that I came into this world barefooted, and that I’ll go out of it barefooted. It makes me remember the first steps of my daughter. It makes me feel a little more at home in a world that I don’t feel at home in at all. This is not some “bra burning, hippie” thing; it is about roots to the creation. It extends to everything we are and speaks to our core being. The next time it snows, try walking out to your mailbox with no shoes. If that doesn’t make you feel alive, you are truly beyond help.

2. Smiling in the Mirror

So many of us look in the mirror and don’t like what we see. We see fat people, ugly people, old wrinkly people, unhappy people or inadequate people. Some of us look and see how pretty we are and get eaten by vanity. I see all these things from time to time too, but I do something a little different. I smile at myself in the mirror. I do not do this out of insanity or vanity. I do it because the fellow in that mirror could use a smile. Have you ever randomly smiled at a stranger? What happens when you do? They usually smile back. When I smile in the mirror, the guy in there always smiles back. Do we truly understand that some people never see a smile? Sometimes the smiles I give to people are the only ones they have seen all day. I know how it makes me feel when someone smiles at me. With that said, what better thing to do for yourself than to smile into the mirror. I look Tom right in the eye and smile at him because I have a sense of self worth and acceptance. The fellow in there has flaws both physical and spiritual, but as a whole I see a guy who is trying his dead level best to be a good Christian, father, step-dad, husband, man, mentor, teacher, friend, comedian, writer, singer, leader, photographer, business owner, expert MMO player, grill master, artist, deacon, lover, and human being. Of course I sometimes see an ugly, fat, sinner, but I am reminded that the earth is a sphere. East is always East. West is always West. North turns into South, and South turns into North if you keep going far enough. I smile because we are told that God will cast our sins as far as the East is from the West if we ask him. He didn’t say North or South for a reason. I’ve asked Him to do this for me. It gives me a reason to smile at myself in the mirror. It helps me to know that I never have to double back on my own mistakes. I can let them go and smile.

3. Basking in Silence and Solitude

Silence and solitude are both odd things for me. They are my reset button. I revel in them. I recharge in them. Some would see the things I do as crazy, but I wonder how many others do the same things but fear to admit to them. 3:00 AM will often find me roaming the darkness of my home. Sometimes I’m up and I cruise the rooms of my house. I go to my children’s rooms and look at them. I make sure they are breathing, safe, and warm. I look at my wife and trace the line of her jaw gently with my fingers. Then, I listen to the house. I listen to the immense silence that rises up at this time of day. I bask in the lonely darkness, and I recharge. Solitude must be had to appreciate community. Even Superman had a fortress of solitude. It is in these moments that I can hear my heart and feel the thankfulness rise up in me for all that I have. I have a home, simple as it is, filled with stuff I really don’t need but filled with people that I really do. I sometimes go look at the stars and tremble in awe at the sight of them. I’m so small, yet there is only one of me. The piercing clarity of these moments creates a sharp pathway straight to my soul. It lets me take things out and examine them in ways I can’t do any other time. It is like Mr. Life just comes and visits me at these times and brings his friends Appreciation and Humility with him. Solitude only speaks in silence. It is in this moment that I understand what: “Be still and know that I am God.” really means.
And then….I can face the music.

Monsters

2011-04-28T13:44:00.003-05:00

MONSTERS is a very unique and special film. Ripe with symbolism and social commentary, it is a parable of deep proportions. It is a film about relationships. It is a film that slowly builds. The intensity moves quietly along, but the film never gets emotionally comfortable. It is not an “edge of your seat” film in the modern sense. It is an exercise in a slow burning discomfort that never really lets up. Technically the film is shot beautifully. Each scene has an almost lavish feel to it. Clearly, the art involved was tended to with loving care.

The acting is executed in such a way that makes the characters feel like normal everyday people. It is a simple task to believe them and come to know them during the course of the movie. The subtle way in which they portrayed “real” people in a bad situation is simply perfect. This film has something so many of its type do not: character development. I honestly couldn’t pick out a single character that didn’t seem genuine.

The background noise of the human drama that unfolds on screen is the presence of gigantic aliens that really reminded me of some form of Cuthulian horror. Honestly, the aliens are magnificent looking. The beauty of the creatures seems to be in their animal nature. Yet they seem to encompass an almost sweet connection to each other and the gas station scene is the crown jewel of the film. It is only then that the viewer comes to fully realize what the movie is about. Everything seeks a place in this world, and we all need to be loved. We all need to be lifted towards a place we can call home. And the definition of “home” is surely put to the test. It is not a just place to live, but it is whom you live with that makes it.

There are certainly comments in the film about immigration, government involvement, and even the difficulties of traveling these days, but the film is not heavy handed and is one of the most subtle presentations of these ideas I have ever seen. The movie is immense in its scope and ramifications. It is deep and powerful. The love with which it was obviously rendered and written speaks very clearly from the screen. The development of the character’s souls is timeless and powerful. I was heartbroken, tense, exhausted, and moved throughout the entire movie.

In a day of over the top action movies, this was as refreshing as a spring rain. The expectations of many audiences will be challenged. If one goes into the film expecting Godzilla or Independence Day, it simply will not happen. What will occur is so much more than that. It is a deep, meaningful, believable presentation that will set the mind working and hopefully open up the possibility of a deepness in science fiction film that has only just begun to emerge in this day of an Attention Deficit Disorder society.

Why Is There Suffering?

2011-04-28T13:33:00.005-05:00

Recently, my pastor asked if I would answer a few questions from an apologetic standpoint about suffering. He gave me a list of questions to answer, and I did my my best to do them justice. Maybe this will help someone out there.

How is the existence of evil proof of God?

By using a logical thinking process, let me explain.

• Most all of us would say that taking a baby and burning it with a lighter is evil.
• Even most murders in prison would agree that this would be an evil thing to do.
• Even if it didn’t bother some people to do such a thing, they most likely would identify the action as evil.
• If God does not exist, then there is no standard and therefore no such thing as good or evil
• Everything would be an opinion.
• Clearly, there is such a thing as evil: Burning a baby, The Nazi’s; The 911 attack, etc.
• Therefore, there must be a God that has instilled the concept of moral laws into humanity.

Our society judges Tiger Woods, Charlie Sheen, and so many more based on a standard. Where does that standard come from? It can’t come from society, because it would only be an opinion if there is no good or evil. It must come from God.

What would you say are the main reasons we have suffering?

First I’d like to say that it is easy to sit up here and talk about this when a person is not going through a certain type of suffering. I have no qualifications to talk about every instance in life. I just want to try and explain this from my world view. I have felt suffering, and so have all of you. It differs from person to person and case to case, but it has happened since the fall of man. This is one of the hardest questions to answer from an apologetic standpoint, but I’m going to try.

We suffer because of several factors: Evil, our sinful choices, and God’s punishment.

However, the main reason suffering happens is this: God created a world that was perfect. When mankind sinned it changed the environment of our world. The natural state of the earth when it was first created was a land of bliss. It was fellowship with God. It was total freedom. It was light and love. Now after sin entered into the world, this became a place of suffering. People say, “Why does God allow it? What is He doing about it?” The facts are this: As long as you live in a land of suffering, you will be subject to suffering. You have to die to escape. Can you swim in a pool without getting wet? You may wade in and not get as wet as some people, but you’ll still get wet. God’s nature will not allow Him to put an end to suffering here. His nature does allow Him to make a path of escape. Why on earth do you think we die? Yes it is the wages of sin, but imagine if we lived on in this world forever in this state of suffering. Here’s something that will blow your mind. Jesus, God in the flesh, came to earth…to this land of suffering and death. He had hunger pains, he teethed as a baby, he was too cold, he was too hot, he has to deal with his own body odor, he probably stubbed his toe, he may have had sinus trouble, he was sleepy, he was tired, he was a man of sorrows, he was lonely, he was forsaken by his father, he was whipped, humiliated, and killed unjustly. He did this to put an end to suffering. He left prefect fellowship in heaven where He was comfortable, adored, cherished, clean, and satisfied, to come to this literal Hell Hole to save you and me. If you think God caused suffering, get the biggest mirror you can find and stand in front of it. The person in there is the culprit. It was me guys. I caused all this mess. Certainly God could intervene and does at times in specific cases, but the natural state of our world is what it is. We can’t escape it on our own anymore than we can escape being human.

Is there anyone here today that will not go through suffering?

In a word: No. Sooner or later something awful will happen to you or someone you love. Period. I’m not going to gloss it over or pretend it won’t happen because that would make me a liar. It is how we deal with these things that is important. Billy Graham once said, “You’re born. You suffer. You Die. Fortunately, there’s a loophole.”

How do we respond to those suffering? What can we learn from Job’s friends?

To me the best way to deal with this is to express love. Job’s pals didn’t come up to him a say, “I know just how you feel.” They didn’t say, “Is there anything we can do.” They cried for him and tore their robes and put dirt on themselves and sat down to suffer with him. Now they said some silly things later on, but at first they had the right idea. The best thing we can do when suffering comes is to pray and hold on tightly to each other with as much compassion as we can manage. Sometimes just being there is enough. I don’t know about you, but I think this is why no matter what we say to someone in grief that it sounds inadequate to even our own ears. We just need to be there for each other. That is what we should do, and that is exactly what God does.

Who is your Biblical role model for how to handle suffering?

There are many good ones, but I identify with David more than any of the others. The main reason is that I feel some of the same struggles he did. He also brought a lot of suffering on his own head because of his actions. I have done this too. However, David understood the nature of God. When he had done wrong with Bathsheba and was told that the baby would die, he sat in sackcloth and ashes because he knew that God was a God of mercy and forgiveness. He knew God might show him undeserved mercy. When God let his child die, he didn’t turn bitter towards God. He stood up, washed and started living again. When he was asked why, he said that God might have allowed his child to live, but since he didn’t that the best thing for him to do now was to live right and to go to his child in Heaven one day. David was more concerned with loosing the Holy Spirit than he was with any suffering he might have to endure. He could endure it all if only God would forgive and restore him. I want to have that same attitude.

What will be your process of dealing with things when you suffer?

I will probably cry, make deals with God, go into depression, etc. However, I hope I won’t or at the very least when I come to my senses and remember what I believe I hope I will address it the way it should be. I trust God. That is the long and short of it. I am also a fallible human being with plenty of fear. When it happens, I will pray. We all have to remember a few things as we go through life, and this one is hard to grasp. God has out best interest at heart. He does not cause suffering or allow suffering to happen to us because He is mean. Remember we live in a realm of suffering. What He does do is use suffering to make us more like Him. How many times in the Bible has he done this? He does not will us to sin, but He can turn our sin into something that He can use for His glory. It is not about us. He is the giver of life, and He has the right to take it when He chooses. We are not our own. That is scary, but we must trust in a good God. As C.S. Lewis said, “He is isn’t safe, but He is good.” We also have to remember that we do not know what we want. We think we do. We think we want one thing, but we really don’t. God knows what we want. Let me explain that because it is a hard concept to get hold of. We strive for things that will never satisfy us. We think we want things that will not fulfill us. What we really want is fellowship with God. You know that melancholy feeling you get sometimes? It is because you are a stranger in a strange land. You don’t belong here. You were made to worship God and fellowship with Him, and that alone will ultimately satisfy you. You can never be satisfied fully on this earth. You can be content, but never totally fulfilled. Work won’t do it. Relationships with people won’t do it. Money won’t do it. Only a fully realized relationship with God will accomplish it. That can only happen in Heaven when we see Him face to face. We are made according to His purpose…not ours. Mops are made to mop. They are not made to stir spaghetti sauce. Only when they mop are they fully realized for what they are. If mops could feel, they would not be happy unless they were mopping. They might think they want to sweep, but they would not be happy doing that. God knows what you need even when you don’t. Suffering sometimes moves us towards that fellowship and dependency on God. Look at your past. When has your faith in Him grown? Nobody, including me, wants to sign up for that lesson. I don’t want to suffer. However, suffering will happen, and if I let it, it will pull me towards God even more.

Valhalla Rising

2011-04-28T10:06:00.002-05:00

Valhalla Rising is one of those films that comes along rarely and disappears into obscurity before it truly gets noticed. The movie is a brutal expression of beauty with existential questions. One Eye is a tremendous character that is shown in all his base brutality, yet he has not lost his humanity. He does what it takes to survive and protect those important to him. The use of a small boy as a “sidekick” figure is a stroke of brilliance. In a world of unmitigated cruelty, One Eye finds a place in his heart for a child. Even though he doesn’t utter a word, his emotional state is clear. It is a mark of a truly gifted actor to be able to deliver such a vivid portrayal without speaking. The plot of the film is ripe with legend and intrigue, and it is an overall satisfying romp.

The strongest point of the film is its incredible camera work, and the striking visuals would make the movie worth seeing if the film had nothing else to offer. The camera angels are employed by a true artist, and the surreal and disturbing scenes grab the viewer by the throat and send waves of discomfort to the soul. It is not that the movie is overtly oppressive; it is simply capable of delivering a feeling of “creepiness” and otherworldly flavor better than most films I have seen. The fact that One Eye sees things with his one eye that others do not nods to ancient beliefs and gives credit to its literary predecessors.

The only negative aspect of the film, to me, is the chapters. They seem to break the film up into acts in an unnecessary manner. Honestly, the movie is so well crafted that the distinction of parts is unnecessary, and I found them somewhat distracting. I understand the convention, but it feels as if the director is trying to hand hold the audience a bit. Some of the imagery in certain segments will strike the viewer as odd and difficult to understand. This film requires you to use your brain and have a basic to advanced understanding of symbolism to understand certain scenes. In particular, the act entitled “Hell,” has some bizarre occurrences and requires some symbolic extrapolation to digest. This segment portrays vice, filth, ritual, and madness with perfect clarity. It is disturbing and disgusting in places. Everything is dirty, gray and grimy.

The power of Valhalla Rising rests in its ability to suck the viewer into the rich visuals and complex plot devices it gives out in wondrous measure. It is not a happy movie. It is not for the lame of brain. It is a beautiful piece of violent art that slips quietly into the nether regions of the barbarian heart and finds morality and hope inside. It is a picture of the depraved, the fanatical, the insane, and is a vision of one man willing to do what he needs to do to cross the gates of life into the pages of legend.

Double Rainbow: What Does It Mean?

2010-11-16T10:04:00.008-06:00

The phenomenon that is the double rainbow that has been You Tubed and even made into a song has caught my heart. The man, Paul Vasquez: aka HungryBear9562, seems to be hippie in persuasion but is sweetly innocent in his honest enthusiasm of the beauty of a double rainbow. I understand these feelings of awe and wonder. The first time I snorkeled, I was overcome with tears at the realization that I was literally submerged in life. In this, Paul and I are kindred spirits. But something struck me soundly as I watched Paul’s delightful expressions of joy and wonder. He exclaims, “What does it mean?” It is these existential questions that drive us all whether we admit it or not. When we ask them, it is more than the ramblings of a mad man or a drug induced vibe. (Paul stated that he was not under the influence of any drugs when he filmed the double rainbow.) What we really seek is the true nature of the human heart. What does it mean? Why does it evoke an emotional response from even the most stoic of us? Where does the awe come from? It comes from the inner knowledge of our Creator. God set His bow in the sky as a promise to mankind.

I have set my rainbow in the clouds, and it will be the sign of the covenant between me and the earth. Genesis 9:13

Paul may or may not realize that this is why he feels such emotion. The rainbow in the sky is always a message from God. It is a promise to never destroy the world in a flood again. In a way, it is a direct sign from God that so many of us pass by and neglect when we see it. Paul gives it the emotional response it deserves. Even though he uses a four letter word at one point, the power of his emotion shines through. I really feel that his expressions of “Oh my God!” seem appropriate in this case. When we consider the source of the rainbow, it is easy to see the inner desire to give credit to its Maker. “Oh Lord my God, when I in awesome wonder, consider all the worlds thy hands have made!” Sometimes when I look up into the night sky, I feel like exclaiming: “Oh my God!” as well. He is my God, and He is mighty. Paul has that feeling perfectly right.

Paul's Reaction: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aB3at-vD4Ek

Rainbow Song: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=giWtAQKREk8

A Jedi Looks At 40

2010-09-21T09:08:00.003-05:00

At 8:13 AM (9:13 AM CST), 9/15/2010, I turned forty years old. I don’t look any different. I don’t feel any different. But, somehow I am different. Life takes on a whole new perspective at 40. I always have said that I am shooting for at least 80 years of age before I kick off into the sweet by and by. Of course, I’m not sure I’ll make that goal. However, we all have to live like we might die any second and also like we will live to be venerable and most likely decrepit. I don’t write this today to get the obligatory “Happy birthday,” but I write it as a self reflection piece that I somehow finally feel qualified to make. I have learned a few things. I have so much left to learn. This writing does not proceed form arrogance. I only know a tiny bit more than an average 39 year old. It comes from simply being here on this God created world for this long. It comes from figuring out a few things about me. Some of what I have found out I really like. Some of it I don’t. Some of it still needs work. Here is what I have learned about myself both good and bad. Anyone else have a list like this?

• I love Hawaiian shirts- Too bad if you don’t.

• I love Tacos- I’m going to eat Tacos….period.

• No one is allowed to tread on my heart.

• I am hot natured to the point of being annoying. I must remember other folks aren’t.

• I forget to say hello to my neighbor.

• I am a geek/nerd/weirdo- I’m ok with that.

• I need Jesus to chisel away at my stupidity and my faults- This is going to hurt.

• I love science fiction. I think you are short-sighted if you don’t.

• I am a conservative in a liberal state. I have to deal with it.

• There are nice liberals.

• I must use my powers for good.

• I like being the center of attention. I must remember to not be self centered.

• My students like me and look up to me. This both scares me and makes me joyful.

• I am a Christian- BUT, I don’t act like it as much as I should.

• I have no tolerance for people who hurt others.

• I have no tolerance for people who make women cry.

• I use humor to communicate. I must never use it to aggravate.

• I am offended when people imply Star Wars is for kids.

• You can make almost anything evil…even Oreos.

• I hate watching sports. People think this is odd, but it is ok for me to not like sports.

• There is nothing wrong with liking purple!

• I’m straight, it’s great, get used to it!

• I understand colors better than my wife. I’m ok with this.

• I decorate better than my wife. This is ok too.

• I know nothing about a car and do not want to. This does not make me a sissy.

• Star Trek is good, but it promotes Socialism.

• I can cry like a girl if I want to.

• I like butterflies, birds, and flowers. You want to do something about it?

• Good is good. Bad is bad. There is no gray.

• Truth is not relative. There is one truth.

• “It is possible to make no mistakes and still lose.” -Picard

• “I fight authority, authority always wins.” –Mellencamp

• I do not want to get what I deserve.

• Rainbows are a symbol of God’s promise and NOTHING else.

• Rebel flags are not bad or racist unless you are a dimwit.

• People deserve to have my full attention.

• My accent is sexy.

• I have the smartest and best parents in the world.

• I am thankful to still have my parents at 40.

• I am in love with a super hot, fantastic woman that thinks I am a stud.

• I am not appreciative enough of my wife.

• I am not patient enough with my daughter.

• I am not loving enough to my step kids.

• I am annoyed too easily.

• Making love is not showing love. (But it can be.)

• I obsess on things I could give up.

• I don’t give enough.

• I have the best friends that God could possibly have given me.

• Sometimes “shooting the bird” is an affectionate way to say, “hello.”

• Saying bad words in front of people makes you look like an idiot.

• Never drink when you are sad.

• Never eat when you are sad.

• Moderation is the key to many doors.

• “You only live once, but if you live right, once is enough.” -Poster I saw once

• People matter, things don’t.

• “It’s all for the burning.” –Great Grandma Ludie

• I am important.

• You are important.

• Nothing is more valuable than my soul.

• Pride is stupidity given a voice.

• If it looks like a tater, and smells like a tater….it’s a tater.

• Nothing matches a baby’s smile.

• I am NOT my job.

• The Great I AM will show me who I am.

• I need to shut up more.

• Instead of wondering if I can, I should wonder if I should.

• Reading makes me happy.

• I will never grow up fully.

• I’m not sure what I want to be when I do grow up.

• I have something to offer.

• You have something I need.

• I have something to teach.

• I have more to learn.

And with that my list isn’t done. It is still growing everyday. As I watch this day come to a close with a thankful heart for good times, good friends, and love that I frankly don’t deserve I will more than likely be more emotional than normal. Am I going to have a midlife crisis? No. I’m more likely to cause a crisis than to have one. But let me leave you with one last thing:

Thank all of you for sharing my life. You are the best people in the world.

Much Love,

Tom

The Depth of Otori Shigeru

2010-06-03T15:11:00.002-05:00

For those who want to know more about Otori Shigeru, this is the book. As a prequel to the Otori books, it is as beautiful as all the rest and gives a character that is dearly loved more flesh and bone. Prequels are often not very well received and seem to never measure up to the original. This book is an exception. It is an outstanding tale of love and loss. It takes the reader to a world were fictional characters we really care about struggle with all manner of trouble. It is at once beautiful and tragic. It is a tale of beauty and deep feeling. I respect these characters like old friends and find myself clamoring for more. Yet, the book is so satisfying that when you finally put it down; it feels like a wonderful meal. However, the longing is still there.

Brilliant Brilliance

2010-06-03T10:50:00.002-05:00

Somehow, Hearn, has finished the trilogy part of this wonderful story without missing a beat or disappointing the reader. So many "trilogies" fall short in later books. This one maintains the highest quality all the way to the end. The poetic quality of the writing will satisfy the most discerning critic, and the story is top notch. This series is likely one of the most enjoyable I have found in recent years. The world is so well developed that it feels completely real. The plot ends in an impressive display of prose that leaves you breathless. The characters are so richly developed that I feel like I know them personally and consider them friends. Once again the only criticism that I have is the slight references to homosexual behavior. It is handled with respect and without vulgarity, yet it seems completely out of place. Discerning parents may want to have a discussion about such issues with their children prior to letting them read the series. The series, as a whole, has several sexual references all of which are handled in a reasonable and respectful manner.

Grass For His Pillow

2010-06-03T10:45:00.002-05:00

The second installment of the Otori clan story is no less satisfying than the first book. While I do prefer the first book, GRASS takes us deeper into the rich world Hearn has created. The language is wondrous and full of the same beauty that the first book had. These are quality pieces of literature. My preference for the first book is simply based on my bias for Takeo as a character. The second book, while furthering the story, delves more into the life of Kaede. I enjoy her as a character, but not as much at Takeo. The book is beautifully written and wondrous to experience. It does contain a few homosexual references that I did not expect. If I had a criticism it would be that the homosexual references seem out of place and pointless to the story. However, it is done in a tasteful and respectful manner. It just doesn't make sense to me and seems forced. Discerning parents may want to discuss this issue with their children before allowing them to read the series.

Unexpected Prose

2010-06-03T10:42:00.001-05:00

Across the Nightingale Floor (Tales of the Otori, Book 1) by Lian Hearn is likely one of the best books I have read in recent memory. I can't begin to touch the power of what these pages contain. The story is excellent and full of intrigue. The characters are human beyond belief. They have the sorrows and the joys we all have. The Oriental culture is captured perfectly in a very respectful manner. The fantasy elements are believable and in no way have an absurd feeling. The reader is able to believe the events taking place on the page. These issues are great strengths of the book; however, the greatest trait of the novel is its prose. The descriptions in this story are so rich that they have to be described as almost poetic. Quite honesty, it is some of the most beautiful writing I have experienced in a long time. It is majestic in scope with a simple delivery. The achingly gorgeous writing is almost to the point of art. This book is a rare find and should be read by anyone who enjoys a good story, but it should be savored by those who love literature. This is one of the most stunning books that I have read in the last 20 years. It takes a lot to unseat a book in my top five list. This book has done just that. It sits on a throne of its own as a shining example of what fine literature can be. I am still reeling from the story and most of all the power of the prose. There is not one wasted word, nor is there a single description that does not take the reader's breath away. I will be reading this entire series and anything else I can get my hands on by Lian Hearn. I look forward to being spirited away to that ancient land full of fantasy, but mostly I just want the words of the works to wash over me renewing my faith that writing of this caliber still indeed exists.

God is Whole, Not Full of Holes

2010-06-03T10:39:00.002-05:00

God's Debris is an interesting book. I am writing this as a Christian. It is important that the reader knows this. The book states that it is not true and that even the author, Scott Adams, does not necessarily believe its contents. It is designed to be a mental exercise. I personally find it hard to fathom why anyone would write something with supposed truths that they claim to be uncertain of. The book starts with a meeting of a package delivery man with an old gentleman who begins to question him towards supposed enlightenment. I admit that the journey is fun and has some merit. However, many of the "truths" expounded upon in the book are fairly close to, if not allied with, heresy. The basic concept of the book is that the greatest power in the universe is expressed through probability. Probability is God's power and makes everything possible. The book then proceeds to endure itself to the reader by creating two very likable characters. Along the way everything from evolution to light speed is addressed. While the arguments are full of mental gymnastics the point becomes clear fairly soon. To wit: God is omnipotent, and the only thing that would challenge such a being is seeking a way to destroy Himself. Adams presents a "god" that is suicidal in a sense. The book states that God has blown Himself to bits and the universe, rocks, plants, animals, and humans are all working within all powerful probability to reassemble God. This cosmic jigsaw puzzle allows for all belief systems. In short, this seems to be another clever attempt to try and persuade the world that all beliefs are valid and ultimately lead to "god." This is where the heresy is exhibited strongest. The book views a creator that is as interested in rocks as he is humans. After all, we are all made of the same stuff. All of us are part of "god" trying to reassemble itself. This sort of gobble-d-gook philosophy is like asking unanswerable questions like "Can God make square circles?" or "Can God make a rock so big he can't pick it up?" This type of circular logic is old hat to folks that want just enough of the truth to keep themselves confused. God's debris are not floating about trying to reassemble through all beliefs and positive probability behaviors. God is the great causer. He is the causer without a cause. He is not bored, but I admit He is unchallenged. He would have no need for this sort of exercise. God is not a Taoist. God incarnate became flesh and dwelt among man. He was crucified for our sin and rose from the dead. He did so without vanity or pomp and circumstance. He did so in humility. He will return in glory. God's Debris is entertaining and a fun read; however, the reader must be careful to have a firm grip on his or her beliefs lest confusion be nurtured by this hogwash philosophy.

Bittersweet Up

2010-06-03T10:37:00.004-05:00

UP is one of the most beautiful movies in a long time. It is a rare thing when a movie makes the viewer love the characters in the first 15-30 minutes. This movie does just that and is a triumph of emotional beauty. Of course it has its comedy and its far fetched moments. However, I sat in the theater with my wife, both of us tearing up with lumps in our throats in the first half hour of the movie. This sets the stage for a fun adventure that ends in a bittersweet triumph. The story is about life long love and the willingness to do almost anything to see your dreams through. It is also a story of recovery from grief, and it is about getting a new lease on life. See it with your wife or girlfriend.

Get Mooned

2010-06-03T10:22:00.003-05:00

MOON is one of those rare gems of a movie that do not come along very often. Unexpected would be the word that describes the feeling I had when I first saw it. I did not expect such an excellent movie. Many films that have far larger budgets miss the mark, but MOON nails it dead on. The performances by Sam Rockwell and Kevin Spacey are nothing short of tremendous. The obvious nod to 2001: A SPACE ODDESSY'S HAL 9000 are very clear in the voice of the computer GERTY 3000. However, the emotional difference that GERTY gives brings originality to the film. Spacey is perfect for this role. The plot moves slowly, but is never boring. Intriguing is the best way to describe this film. It is cerebral science fiction at its best, but it does not take a genius to understand the plot or the complexity of the characters. The viewer feels for Sam and amazingly for GERTY as well. Hands down this movie is a masterpiece of writing and ingenuity. It is a MUST see for any sci-fi fan, and even folks that hate sci-fi will find it enduring and gripping. Do not miss MOON! Some cursing.

Martyrs: Not What You Think

2010-06-03T09:58:00.006-05:00

MARTYRS is an exceptional experience for various reasons. I have no plans of getting into the plot too deeply, because ruining this movie's surprises would be tantamount to a cinema crime. What I would like to focus on are some exceptional elements. This movie delves into realms not normally touched by the horror genre. The violence is extreme and over the top, but it has a reason behind it: Albeit, a twisted and sick reason. However, it is not mindless violence without cause just for the sake of "goring" someone to death. I am not a huge fan of gore. However, this film uses it properly to convey its intended message. MARTYRS is very successful in making the audience think hard about the questions it puts forth. I find it terribly interesting that the "bad guys" seem to all come from the upper class of society and for some reason they felt distinctly Nazi-like. The film is still tumbling around in my head as I try to come to grips with its intended message. I find much ambiguity, but I also find pointed questions and fearful revelations. Another issue of note is the near absence of curse words. American horror is filled to the brim with "F-Bombs" and all other variety of offensive language. MARTYRS seems to have no use for such language. It does not need it. It is also proof that superior suspense and horror films can be made without the need for constant cursing. I found it very refreshing. There is some mild nudity, but it is not sexual in any way. The focus of the film is its stunning and shocking visuals and the message it is trying to convey. The truth is: This is not a "happy time" film experience. If you want to feel good, do not watch this film. (Watch THE EMPEROR'S NEW GROOVE instead) If you want to be spoon fed, do not watch this film. If you want to think and test your analytical powers and your ability to pay attention to nuances, this is the film for you. NO WAY SHOULD ANY CHILD SEE THIS MOVIE!!! MANY ADULTS SHOULD NOT SEE IT EITHER. Make sure you can handle it.

Excellent Beyond Words: Pontypool Rules the Screen

2010-05-28T10:40:00.007-05:00

PONTYPOOL is by far one of the most excellent "zombie" films in the history of cinema. When one considers the fact that some who worked on the film did not consider it to be a "zombie" film, it serves to outline the reasons the film works so well. The "happenings" that occur in the small town of Pontypool can be seen in many different ways. Certainly, the strangeness of the movie make the situational horror manifest itself within the confines of several interpretations. The "bad" guys can be seen as zombies, insane, victims, etc. What makes the movie so incredible is the Oscar worthy acting by Stephen McHattie. McHattie's portrayal of Grant Mazzy is dizzying. His performance is by far one of the most outstanding and riveting in any genre. When this fact is coupled with one of the most intriguing plots in the history of film, the viewer gets a rare recipe for greatness. PONTYPOOL is a must see for zombie fans, horror fans, and serious film buffs. It was simply one of the most outstanding films I have seen in a very, very long time. Do not miss it!

The Road Not Taken

2010-05-28T10:39:00.003-05:00

THE ROAD is a beautifully rendered, heart smelting experience. The acting is first rate, and the plot moves in an unrelenting manner. The simple things we take for granted are shown here to be something special. The dark and graying landscape of the film is beautiful in an almost "sick-at-heart" way. The setting is replete with the fear and hopelessness that post apocalyptic thrillers excel at.

Yet...

The whole film is a comment on the love between a son and his father. Despite the evil that surrounds them, the father tries his best to teach his son a better way. We see the goodness in the son's beliefs and attitude. We see an imperfect father that is trying to differentiate between the "good" guys and the "bad" guys. His son wants to help when he can, but the father's protective nature hinders this. We see the father make mistakes and his own son serves as a moral compass that leads his "papa" back to the right thing. In the end, trust becomes the highest achievement. The son seems to me to represent all that is good in the world and the father represents those of us that have become jaded by the trials of life. The absence of the divine seems clear in a world abandoned by all hope. Yet, the son embodies the divine spark assuring us that good has not been driven from the world. This is a story of starvation from a physical and spiritual standpoint. The focus on suicide and hopelessness is so powerfully rendered that it stays with the audience for long days after the curtain has closed. Some may see the negative existentialist worldview of Nietzsche or the survival of the fittest perspective of Darwin, but what truly shines about the film is its depiction humanity's reach for more. In the end, we see the values of goodness, love, and the sanctity of life. There is a reach for the spiritual and a desire to return to lawful society. While I felt some gray depression after the movie ended, it affirmed just how valuable each of us are. It made me examine my own pettiness and reaffirmed the values I hold dear. It is amazing that each of us needs a reset of our perspective from time to time. THE ROAD is ultimately successful in pointing us towards that which is truly important: The love, value and dignity that is given to us and the love, value and dignity that we must give to others if we are to truly comprehend what is means to be human.

Tom’s Take on Twilight: New Moon

2009-11-23T12:25:00.006-06:00

If you are a 13-15 year old girl this review does not apply to you. Somewhere underneath the surface of this beautifully shot movie there is a plot. However, I can’t find it. Chris Weitz’s directing is reasonably good as far as the look of the movie goes. It does have the moody, angst, overcast setting that makes these films work. The werewolves look like big CGI monsters that you’d like to pet. There are even a few comedic one liners that might get a quick chuckle. Unfortunately, that is where the good stops and the massive amounts of bad starts. The basic premise of the film is silly to the extreme. Edward decides that he must leave his love, Bella, to ensure her safety and to give her a chance at a normal life. Yet, when he leaves her, she spends most of her time screaming out nightmares. (I wish my ex-girlfriends had missed me that much.) The overblown acting here is, in a word, horrible. The irony here is that once he leaves her the only way she can “see” him is if she puts herself into serious physical jeopardy. Thus, he leaves to keep her safe only to make her place herself in more danger than ever. Clearly, Edward needs a new brain. This is also a concern considering the “red headed vampire of death” is out to kill her. Edward leaves so Bella can be safe. What he does is leave her to the mercy of “killer red.” (A very wasted villain if you ask me.) On top of this, when putz Edward calls Bella and wolf man Jacob tells him that Bella’s dad is “arranging for a funeral,” he hangs up the phone. Without checking his sources, he decides that he must, in teenage style angst, kill himself. What an idiot! One would think that after 109 years he might have grown out of teenage melodrama. This is silly beyond words. Somehow Bella is able to fly across the world and in the nick of time save him from exposing himself to the mundanes. However, we do get a good shot of Edwards pale naked top half. This gratitudious flesh festival does not compare to wolf man Jacob’s “Chip-n-Dale” shirt rip to dab a small amount of blood from Bella’s motorcycle wreck, head wound. I actually heard the mostly female audience’s sharp intake of breath and giddy stifled laughter when this occurred. We are told that women are stimulated in an emotional manner not a visual one. I do not buy this at all. As the movie crawls and lurches to a close, we get to see the over stylized council of old vampires who look more like old gay fashion rejects. The movie makes an attempt to be intense here with a fight to save Bella, and we get a prophecy that stays the hand of the council. One day Bella will become one of them. This leads to the most comically tragic scene, via a prophetic vision, in the movie with Edward chasing Bella in the sunlit forest sparkles aglow on both of them. I fully expected singing animals or seven dwarves at this moment. One word: Barf! In short, this movie looks good and is shot with great visuals. (And I don’t mean the bare chest studs either.) However, the plot (or lack thereof) and the overblown melodrama is almost wretch worthy.

I give Twilight: New Moon ½ of a star for good cinematography. Save your money folks, and buy a poster of wolf man Taylor Lautner with his shirt off. It’ll be cheaper and last a lot longer.

Why the World Needs Star Trek Right Now

2009-05-12T12:35:00.002-05:00

The new movie is out to glorious reviews. I could not agree more. What a wonderful film this is! I could review the film with glowing prose and tearful joy at how wonderful it is. I could tell you that the sound, the lighting, the pacing, the sequences, are all perfect. (They are by the way.) I could tell you that the actors absolutely NAILED their parts and that it is different enough to be original and traditional enough to be respectful. I could sing the praises of this film for about three weeks straight. However, I’m not going that route this time. This movie deserves so much more.

I think that the Star Trek film reflects what American society needs right now. We have a war to contend with, a failing economy, swine flu, and the list goes on and on. Star Trek does not go the route that Battlestar Galactica did in its pointed portrayal of humanity in all its fallen and desperate, depressing state. While Galactica offered some hope for us at the end of the series, it was largely dark and brooding and…well…scary. That has its place and everyone who knows me understands how much I love BSG. However, the new Star Trek takes a different route. The movie returns to its roots and offers an almost joyous sense of optimism without being preachy or over the top. There is a sense that humanity just might be alright after all if we can reach inside and past our fallen natures. There is still good waiting to be harvested. Trek gives joy to adventure once more and excitement that is tempered with humor and drama. Even if this sense of hope for humanity is unrealistic or even if this hope is false, the movie gives a glimpse at what is great about human beings. We seek out strange new “anythings.” We boldly go where no one has gone before. In short, we are the movers and shakers of the universe. It is how God made us. We should sense that created nobility that we all have. Trek is the right movie at the right time. It offers optimism in the face of difficult days.

Silly Liberals, Moments of Silence…uh…Silenced

2009-05-12T10:25:00.002-05:00

"The statute is a subtle effort to force students at impressionable ages to contemplate religion."
-U.S. District Judge Robert W. Gettleman

The moment of silence has once again left the school system. Are we surprised? Nope, not a bit. Heaven forbid, excuse the reference, that we would ever have a time of thoughtful reflection in our public schools. Silence in schools? What a concept! The dastardly thirty seconds of noiseless bliss could harm our children and cause them to become Bible thumping, witch burning, sexual repressed, bigots. We can’t have that! I wonder if the folks opposed to the moment of silence will be offended when I tell my students to be quiet and think. Perhaps I could put it this way:

“If you feel that it would be appropriate for you, and you do not find it personally offensive, would you please take a moment to be quiet and think about the assignment.”

Now, I realize that this is not the same thing as the prayer, meditation, blank staring, etc. that the official state mandated silent time was. The point I make is that our court systems and a few mentally challenged liberals are threatened by a moment of silence. Silence! No noise is a scary thing I suppose. Why if we have that, then students might learn a bit of self control and perhaps they will use the time to think. There is the off hand chance that religious students might pray to God or Allah, meditate, chant in their heads or focus inwardly. They could even pray to Satan if they wanted to do so. Jehovah Witnesses could plan their next “door to door” in their minds. Scientologists could purge the ingrams of departed space aliens. Atheists could….be quiet. They could check out the cute girls, mentally plan their next bar hopping puke-a-thon, or think about how much they hate Christians.

What astonishes me is the fact that the powers of our court systems bow to these few folks who squeal and whine when they don’t like something. I find it ridiculous that my own liberal union would likely spend thousands to defend my rights, if I so chose, to wear a hoop earring hanging from my nose, while dressed in drag and high heels, humming “Sweet Transvestite from Transylvania” as I passed out condoms to Kindergarteners! But a moment of silence….we can’t have that! What a Godless, screwed up world we live in. I, for one, will take all the silent moments I can get. There are so few. And I thank GOD for those!

Respects,
(Grammar rules violated blatantly for dramatic purposes.)

The Redistribution of Wealth Liberal Love or Stupid Notion?

2009-05-12T10:14:00.005-05:00

“I am for doing good to the poor, but I differ in opinion of the means. I think the best way of doing good to the poor, is not making them easy in poverty, but leading or driving them out of it. In my youth I traveled much, and I observed in different countries, that the more public provisions were made for the poor, the less they provided for themselves, and of course became poorer. And, on the contrary, the less was done for them, the more they did for themselves, and became richer.”

- Ben Franklin

What does President Barack Hussein Obama mean when he makes statements about our tax dollars? He wants them to be “spread around better.” What this means is more of the dirty word Obama avoids like the plague: “welfare.” He already did this in my state in Chicago. He now wants to do it all through America.

Let me see if I have all the steps in place:

1. Give tax breaks to 95% of Americans that will amount to about what Bush gave for an economy stimulation check.
2. Tax those that make $250,000 around 45%.
3. Cripple the small businessman as a result.
4. Cause the small businessman to either go out of business, lay off workers, or charge more.
5. Pass the cost of this on to those that were given the tax cut in the first place.
6. Those who were given a tax cut pay more for things that they purchase than the amount of the tax cut they originally received.
7. Net result: The redistribution of wealth FAILS utterly, and the economy gets even worse.

This is like setting someone on fire to cure acne. Why do liberals think this sort of nutty idea will work? It makes no sense. Are Liberals so pitiful that they think I somehow owe them a living? It seems so to me. How much is enough?

Here is an idea:

Get a job.
Work hard.
Stop complaining that you don’t have as much as your neighbor.
Stop being a victim.
Start depending on your God given talents.
Stop whining.
Allow capitalism to work.

In short, I dislike the notion of my tax dollars going to keep up the American BUM association. If you’re sick or crippled or otherwise handicapped, that is one thing; if you are too lazy to get off the couch or think you are too good to work at McDonald’s that is something else. Starvation is a big motivator. We need to stop enabling these people. It shows them no dignity and teaches them helplessness. Certainly we need social programs; however, we do not need to program people socially. If President Obama thinks this is a good idea, I would be very interested to see what he thinks about Communism.

Conservative Liberals: Oxymorons or just morons

2008-09-04T18:54:00.001-05:00

Liberals! I do not understand the liberal thinking of our country these days. When Palin was nominated by presidential hopeful McCain the entire liberal network seemed to go into attack mode. If was as if they said,

“Oh no, a conservative woman with traditional, pro-life values has been nominated. She even likes to cook for her husband. She loves and supports the traditional family. We have to do something!”

So what did they do?

They find out that her daughter is pregnant. They question her ability to be a good mother and serve our country.

Did I miss something?

Aren’t these kooks the same morons that supported Hilary? What about her “family” life. I suppose since her daughter is older that makes her a safe candidate. Leaving the family care issues aside, they moved on to her 17 year old pregnant daughter. Clearly they think this makes Palin a bad candidate since she obviously could not control the sexuality of her daughter.

Hold on. Wait a second.

Since when did liberals give a rat about traditional values? These same goofs, who are drawing in a sharp breath to discredit Palin because of her daughter, were staunch supporters of threesome sex between two guys that included a goat just last week. When did these folks get so moral?

I’ll tell you when.

They got ethics the moment a conservative woman who stood with her daughter and loved her even though she made a mistake got nominated. They got indignant when a lady who just might become an icon for young ladies got tapped for the VP slot. What they are is scared. They are afraid that a woman with power might actually have a normal female perspective. The feminazis will not like Palin. The liberal gay male will not like Palin. The feminist will hate Palin. The lesbians will hate Palin.

I love Palin.

So will those who hold a traditional family, pro-life, and (dare I say it?) Christian perspective.

Guess what liberals. Most of America holds a traditional view. You have to go to Hollyweird to find fewer conservative thinking folks than if you walk out your door right now. Yeah, the liberals will win some states. They will show up good on Election Day. However, they will do so with trembling fear that a conservative woman just might end up in Washington. I, for one, sure hope she does.

Go Palin! She is one woman that is traditional, smart, conservative, family oriented, loves her husband, respects her husband, values life, and just makes darn good sense.

And she’s pretty to boot!

What Happened to Tom?

2008-04-17T09:53:00.002-05:00

* If you are squeamish stop reading now.

As most of you know I rarely, if ever, miss school. However, all that changed Tuesday night. I was quietly watching a special on Jupiter’s moons around 6:00 PM when I began to feel “odd.” I lay down on the couch, and my little girl came to check on me and asked if I were ok. When I told her I felt bad, she wanted to help. My little one got a coffee cup, filled it with red Hawaiian Punch and dropped a few ice cubes in. I took it and sent her on her way in case I was contagious. I began to feel worse with a dull pain right below the center of my chest at the top of my stomach. It grew worse, and felt like it was increasing in diameter. I made my way to the bedroom to lie down early for the night. I told my wife that I just didn’t feel well. The pain grew worse and the weird feeling in my upper stomach grew larger. In a few minutes I began to feel intense nausea. This was horrendous and reminded me of what many pregnant ladies have described. However, certain that I was not pregnant; I rushed to the restroom where I began a trip to a place I have never been before. We had ordered pizza for supper. I began to vomit. I regretted the pizza immediately. I expected to feel better after the initial upchucking and was not disappointed. I felt better for about 2 minutes. Then I noticed that the pain in my upper stomach had started again. The nausea returned even worse. I raced to the restroom where I once more delivered pizza to the porcelain patron. I knew at that point that I was in for a wild night. About every 10-15 minutes, I returned to place my face closer to a toilet than I care to remember. It was at my second or third delirious visit that the notion that this was not a “normal” puking came to me. It was so much more. I threw up in a way that makes elephant birthing seem easy. I hit the toilet; I was at an intensely close range. However, I also managed to launch projectiles to the floor, the surrounding walls, and the splatter effect nailed my shirt, hair, and face, until after each session I needed a washcloth bath. I started removing my T-shirt prior to puking. (Yes, I had that much fine control.) I could tell when it was about to happen. I imagine I made a grand vision of masculinity when my wife would check on me. I would yell between gags, “Get out of here!” or “Don’t come in here!” I knew that if I were contagious that I didn’t want to give this to my family. I was certain that the bile geyser would soon cease. It had to. There was no way that I had anything left to donate. However, for some reason, I managed to keep going like a male Emperor Penguin regurgitating force fed food into the toilet. I threw up things from another dimension. This was more than disembarking dinner. I was violently ill. At this point my large intestine apparently felt left out. (I’ll not go into to this one.) Suffice it to say, that I experienced unique and amazing bodily coordination. My entrance and exit only hatches worked in eerie concert to empty my body of fluids not to mention the rivulets of cold sweat that raced down my face like rain. I am told that all this is what drug me down into dehydration. I had never been dehydrated before. At last I experienced a brief refrain from the gastrointestinal equivalent to the last days of Pompeii. As I lay panting on my bed in exhaustion, my wife quietly asked from the door.

“Is there anything I can get you? Is there anything you need?”

“A bullet.” I quipped.

The dehydration was making me feel so bad that I have trouble describing it. I can only say that you have to experience dehydration in order to truly understand it. I thought my heart was going to stop, and I wondered if I might die. I am not a complainer and my wife takes me serious when I do. I usually tough out things, but this time it was not to be. I told my wife that I was not going to be able to manage this by myself, and that she needed to call my dad to get me to the emergency room. When my dad arrived, he stood waiting on me. My wife had to dress me, which in another situation might have been fun, but at that moment I felt like a bloated toad in a pie pan.

My dad got me to the emergency room where I stumbled in and sat at the admissions desk. After buzzing the call button, and waiting a bit, the clerk arrived. My head was down, but I managed to give them my insurance information. I wondered what they might think if I were to hurl all over the desk. They took me back and placed me, not on a bed, but what I think was some sort of mobile gurney used in an ambulance. It was very narrow and the whole time I felt like a walrus on a surfboard. The nurse came in and took my vitals and used the automatic blood pressure cup. These things operate like a boa constrictor. I thought it might crush the bones in my arm. After this came the IV. To the nurse’s credit, she hit my vein on the first try. The slow process of rehydration had begun. Hours later I still lay shivering on the surf board bed despite warm blankets. I could not drink, but they did allow me to eat ice chips. The ice was delicious but made my shivering worse. They kept coming in to use the constrictor cup to take my blood pressure while I lay in the bed. They would then have me stand up and retake it along with my pulse rate. You have not lived until you have to stand up with a blood pressure cup on your arm, an IV in your vein while sick and freezing. I was told this was how they determined if I was still dehydrated. My readings should be about the same if all was well. They never returned to normal, and the doctor spoke about admitting me to the hospital. I was able to talk my way out of admission. (You all have seen our deductible.) I was finally sent home around 4:30 AM. My wonderful dad raced to get the truck to pull around to the ambulance entrance so I would not have to walk far. Little did I know, until the next day, that he threw up in the parking lot. Thankfully, he did not get as ill as I did, but he still stayed in bed a couple of days and got very sick. I stumbled into my home and made my way to bed around 5:00 AM. I was to stay there for the next two days. Finally, on Friday, I began to feel some better, and at lunch my wife and I went to get something to eat. It was not pizza.

I’m back today and glad of it. The residual effects of my ordeal are fatigue. My energy level is low, and I feel foggy headed. However, I can function. I wanted to thank all of you that contacted me while I was ill. I appreciate all the folks that I have run into today that have asked about me and wished me well. All the people that handled my absence by either delivering my lesson plans or helping the subs out are deeply appreciated. This is one of the reasons I love Edinburg. The concern we have for each other here speaks well of this little school. My wonderful wife took care of me and put up with my dark humor through all of it. (She has to cope with that all the time anyway.) I have never been that sick before. Maybe it was harder because I am older. Thank God for family and friends. Thank God for health.

Why is 'if' the middle word in life?

2008-04-16T14:57:00.001-05:00

Wake, work, wish, sleep. Rinse and repeat. We all fall into the trap of making a living, fighting the good fight, and trying to pay the house off early. Yet while we are doing all of this, life is passing right through us, around us, and rushing headlong into eternity. When I stop to consider the “if” part of life, I have to wonder how I will measure up when life is over. I always have to be “here” or do “that” or change “this.” Do I really live, or am I busy existing? It is this thought that keeps my brain grinding like a locomotive everyday and night of my life. Sometimes what I see scares me and makes me wonder if I am merely the jester of the king’s court. Perhaps I am fooling myself instead of everyone else. Perhaps I have lost my edge. Perhaps I’ve lost my focus.

And then I meet her.

She’s this quiet, little thing that graces my Monday classroom with the soft presence of a snowflake. I can see she’s timid because she’s new. I know how it feels to be new. Uncertainty blankets her face, and I can see that she is sizing me up and wondering what sort of monster I might be. And then the jester comes out and dashes her stoic face and fearful countenance. I see a smile. It is a typical smile, but it warms my soul. I begin to consider just why I’m here. The “if” in life starts to focus again.

• If I do my best for her and all my other students, what might happen?

• If I drop my preconceived notions about how things are, what will I learn?

• If I give just a little more of myself, can I bring these kids something they need?

Flash forward to today, Friday. I get a book with a note from Ms. Snowflake. It reads,

“Hey what’s up? I just wanted to say “hey” to my favorite teacher…”

I’m stunned. On day 5? I don’t deserve this. Yet there it is. I am holding it in my hand. I am reading it with my eyes.

I think I remember what the “if” means now.