Feb. 07
Asleep at the Wheel
As I speed down a long, dusty, deserted highway, I slam the brakes many times.
The brakes don’t work.
I see black and emptiness to the right and left.
In the rearview mirror, I see the blood red sky fast approaching.
In front of me I see gray.
The brakes don’t work.
I cry.
I shout.
My pulse races but my heart does not beat.
Jealousy
Rage
Lust
Greed
Pride
Arrogance
Indulgence
Gossip
Murder
Slander
Bigotry
Hypocrisy
Debauchery
The view opens up in front of me.
I don’t stop.
Thoughts of jumping enter my mind.
I grab the seat belt.
The seat belt does not give.
I can’t escape.
I cry.
I scream.
I beg.
My body shakes.
My muscles swell.
My fists pound the window until they are cut and bleeding.
The glass does not break.
It is all for naught.
My body shakes.
My body sweats.
My brakes don’t work.
I see the cliff.
I am heading for destruction.
I see myself burning in the wreckage, burning in hell.
I cry to God.
I am sorry.
I want to wake up, but I am not asleep.
I want to stop.
Everything is black except the red coming up from the ravine.
I cry.
I scream.
My brakes don’t work.
My calf is numb from stomping on the brakes.
I jerk the steering wheel.
It doesn’t move.
I see the cliff.
I am almost there.
My eyes open.
My bed is soaked with sweat.
I see the morning light.
Thank you God.
Thank you Lord.
Forgive me.
Love me.
I start my day.
I start my week.
I say my prayers.
My brakes don’t work.
Saturday, November 29, 2008
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Marbury man
Stephon Marbury – a real class act!
November 26, 2008
In Milwaukee, Wisconsin on Friday, 11/21/08, the out manned and out numbered New York Knicks lost to the Bucks. The Knicks, due to trades earlier in the day, arrived for the game with the NBA minimum of 8 players.
Stephon Marbury should be cut and sent packing. Why? He refused to play. His reasoning for it doesn’t float with me. He said “ The only thing I’m at liberty to say is that I was told that they were moving forward, and I’m not the person who chooses who plays or doesn’t.” Even though the Knicks told Marbury of the direction they wanted to go in at the beginning of the season, he could have been a better man and played in the game against the Bucks. Show all of those young kids who idolize you what it is to be a real man Stephon.
He was inactive for Saturday’s win against Washington. And I am sure he was inactive for last nights Cavs game.
Another over paid prima donna.
November 26, 2008
In Milwaukee, Wisconsin on Friday, 11/21/08, the out manned and out numbered New York Knicks lost to the Bucks. The Knicks, due to trades earlier in the day, arrived for the game with the NBA minimum of 8 players.
Stephon Marbury should be cut and sent packing. Why? He refused to play. His reasoning for it doesn’t float with me. He said “ The only thing I’m at liberty to say is that I was told that they were moving forward, and I’m not the person who chooses who plays or doesn’t.” Even though the Knicks told Marbury of the direction they wanted to go in at the beginning of the season, he could have been a better man and played in the game against the Bucks. Show all of those young kids who idolize you what it is to be a real man Stephon.
He was inactive for Saturday’s win against Washington. And I am sure he was inactive for last nights Cavs game.
Another over paid prima donna.
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Black Dots and a Snake
The Black Dots Beat Me – but not without a fight
11-19-08
A little while before Hurricane Gustav, we noticed these little black dots all over our cars, driveway, walkway and house. We had no clue (and still don’t) what they were. So before we evacuated for Gustav, I washed the Ford (evacuating is hard enough – at least we went in a clean car). It took 3 hours. Those black dots were hard on me. The dodge was covered as well, but that thing stays dirty (where I work) so you could hardly see the black dots. A couple of weeks after Gustav, they re appeared on the Ford. I scratched them and they were red underneath.
They were not sticky.
Weird.
They were washed off of the car again but they remained everywhere else.
A couple of days it was time to pressure wash the house. I did it and knowing the black dots were on the house didn’t bother me. But when the house was washed, I could really see the dots. So I proceeded to hold the pressure washer on each dot. It got them off, but I couldn’t do it for all of them so….They beat me, but the house looks great!
The Mystery of the Windshield Snake
11-19-08
Another marvel of nature.
A little while back we left for work. On the car’s windshield was a weird swirly line with several marks angling from the line.
It resembled the bottom of a snake.
We had no clue what it could be. A couple of mornings later, the same type of mark was on the truck’s windshield. Time passed and we didn’t see the marks. Then, the other day there was a wasp drinking (I guess) the dew off of the car’s windshield.
And guess what – the mystery of the windshield snake was revealed.
Monday, November 17, 2008
Muddy Waters
Muddy Waters
Nov. 2007
Life seems muddy.
Why try to get unpolluted just to get polluted again. Then you try to get unpolluted again and again.
The viscous cycle of it all is exhausting.
It tires you and wears you down.
Repeated over and over and over and over and over and over again.
You battle the day, all day.
You lose your mind regardless of the battles outcome.
You retreat.
Sometimes you retreat to safety.
Sometimes you retreat to more chaos.
Sometimes you retreat to more battles.
Every battle, every fight, every stress can be bowed and twisted however you or the faction choose.
You can’t choose your brawls, but your mind (which is the bona fide regulator) does choose your struggles.
Your mind decides on your outcome, your perception and your opinion.
Your body pays the price.
You see muddy waters.
You see clear skies.
You see it all in a rainbow of contemplations, considerations, reflections, concepts, inspirations, theory’s, notions and philosophies.
Nov. 2007
Life seems muddy.
Why try to get unpolluted just to get polluted again. Then you try to get unpolluted again and again.
The viscous cycle of it all is exhausting.
It tires you and wears you down.
Repeated over and over and over and over and over and over again.
You battle the day, all day.
You lose your mind regardless of the battles outcome.
You retreat.
Sometimes you retreat to safety.
Sometimes you retreat to more chaos.
Sometimes you retreat to more battles.
Every battle, every fight, every stress can be bowed and twisted however you or the faction choose.
You can’t choose your brawls, but your mind (which is the bona fide regulator) does choose your struggles.
Your mind decides on your outcome, your perception and your opinion.
Your body pays the price.
You see muddy waters.
You see clear skies.
You see it all in a rainbow of contemplations, considerations, reflections, concepts, inspirations, theory’s, notions and philosophies.
Saturday, November 15, 2008
Five People I Would Like To Have Dinner With
5 PEOPLE I WOULD LIKE TO HAVE DINNER WITH
Oct. – Nov. 2008
I am sure you have seen these blogs, articles, emails, etc. I actually have been thinking about this as well. In passing, I heard something on one of the National News Shows about it, but I didn’t catch the details. If you Google the subject, you get many hits.
So, here is my list and reasons (if they may make sense) why:
Before I get to the list. Let me narrow the possible choices down. My list includes people who 1-are alive; 2- people I don’t know personally. Unfortunately, these guidelines almost cause the list consist of “famous” people (my list is not intended that way….but).
So here is my list and reasons:
Before I get to the “5”, I will list some “Honorable Mentions” (so to speak).
When I started thinking about this, many people came to my mind. A lot more people came to mind than the number that is listed below. I couldn’t list them all so here are the “Honorable Mentions”.
Note: there are some intriguing people on this list, picking the “5” was difficult.
LUNCH
Queen Latifah – Actress, Singer, etc. she was actually on my short list for dinner. Something about her presence moves me. I think she would be a great Dinner guest.
Michael Stipe – lead singer for R.E.M. his surreal lyrics are attractive. I don’t necessarily agree with all of his views but they would be fun to discuss.
Dave Grohl – in my mind one of the most talented musicians – period. Former drummer for Nirvana and front man for the Foo Fighters. On the first Foo Fighters album – he played all of the instruments and recorded the whole thing himself.
Bob Mould – was Guitarist, vocalist and songwriter for one of my favorite bands, Husker Du. I enjoy his website and his blogs. If he ever played close to New Orleans, I would be there. He appeals to me, not just his music but his thoughts, etc.
John McCain – I had to laugh. He was quoted as saying that he can now rest at night. He has been one of America’s best.
Robert Duvall – by far one of my favorite actors. Bobby. I love his movies and think that he would fun to talk to.
Denzel Washington – like Duvall, one of my favorite actors. I would like to talk about some of the “real life” roles he has taken in the past and his thoughts on the real life people he portrayed.
Morgan Freeman – Again, he is one of the best actors of all time. He is from Mississippi which makes him a neighbor. His knowledge of the past and thoughts of the present and future would be quite fascinating to listen to.
Natalie Merchant – lead singer of the 10,000 Maniacs. Her lyrics and views are significant. Her singing voice is peaceful. She is one of the best female voices (in song and causes) ever.
Kyra Sedgwick – she is just a great actress. Plus she lives in Manhattan.
Will Smith – “In west Philadelphia…” Will Smith is just good! His humor and his serious side would make for a great visit.
Tommy Lasorda – Former manager of MY Los Angeles Dodgers. I actually told him hello at a Dodgers Spring training awhile back. The rest speaks for itself.
Joe Torre – Current manager of MY Los Angeles Dodgers. He is a true winner. Plus he used to live (and probably still has a house) in Manhattan. I would love to pick his and Lasorda’s brain about baseball.
Orel Hershiser – the “Bulldog”. He was one of the best Dodger pitchers ever. I respect him and think highly of him from the baseball standpoint.
Steve Sax – one of my favorite all time Dodger players. He played 2B in the early 80’s. Former Rookie of the Year.
Joel C. Rosenberg – a terrific author. He is one of my favorites. His books are thought provoking even though most of them are fiction. His web site is excellent. And he is a Christian author.
Sandy Koufax – The Best Major League Pitcher….EVER. His record speaks for itself. He still deals with the Dodgers, but he is a very private person. I would like to just sit and chit chat. If I had a dog, its name would be KOUFAX.
Nicholas Cage – Like Duvall, Smith, Washington, etc. He is one of the best actors around. I haven’t seen a Cage movie I did not like.
Joe Paterno – No disrespect to Paul “Bear” Bryant, but Mr. Paterno has to be the greatest College Football coach of all time. He just keeps going………Imagine the conversations you could have with him.
Eric Clayton – Lead Singer of the Christian Gothic Rock band, Saviour Machine. The band’s lyrics are enormous. Their Legend series is awesome. I would pry and ask him when or if the Legend series will ever be completed.
Henry Ross Perot – I just like this guy. Plus I think his financial views could actually help the U.S. through our current crisis.
All of the above listed would be tremendous to have dinner with, but I had to pick 5. Below is my “5”
Ted Dekker – Without a doubt, my favorite author. I have read all but 2 of Ted’s books (and I will be getting to them soon). Two of his books have been turned into movies. In my opinion, all of his books would make a great movie. Ted is a Christian author whose mind is staggering. The stories that come from his pages seize me and don’t let me go. Many of his books and stories intertwine and that blows me away. One of his sayings is to “Dive Deep.” A conversation with him would be deep, but oh so entertaining and thought provoking.
Mike Ness – I like all kinds of music. I like many bands. If you made me choose my favorite band, it would be Social Distortion. Mike Ness started Social Distortion in 1978. I remember watching the Documentary Another State of Mind in the early 80’s. I saw that and thought that this band, Social Distortion would be more than just a young Punk band. And they were. They evolved into something fantastic. Much of this was due to Ness and co-founder Dennis Danell (he passed in 2000). Ness has battled drug addiction and other issues (he is the only original member still with the band) and much of his life has come out in his lyrics. Ness formed Time Bomb records as well as Black Kat Kustoms (he love old cars). He recorded two solo albums in 1999 as well. I think talking to him about life’s experiences and struggles would make for a stimulating dinner. My little brother and I actually met Mike Ness. We went to one of his solo shows in New Orleans and shook his hand in front of his tour bus. He is just a cool dude.
Bobby Flay – This guy can cook. I love his style and combinations in cooking. My wife and I ate at Mesa Grill in Manhattan. Was he there? Who knows, but one thing for sure, the influence he has on that menu is marvelous. I had to include a Chef on this list, but beyond Bobby Flay’s cooking, his business sense and personality (at least what we see on TV) make him worthy of this choice. He has hosted several Food TV programs and owns 6 restaurants. Plus if he is invited to dinner, he can cook (and give some pointers).
Vaclav Havel – “The real test of a man is not when he plays the role that he wants for himself, but when he plays the role destiny has for him.” This quote from Havel is one of my favorites. He is a Czech playwright, writer and politician. He was the tenth (and last) President of Czechoslovakia (from 1989 to 1992) and the first President of the Czech Republic (1993 – 2003). He wrote 20 plus plays and many non-fiction works. He received much recognition for his work and has received many honors. He led the Czech Republic to a multi-party democracy. He is still very influential today (in the Czech Republic and abroad).
Ricky Graham – New Orleans’ own. Ricky is a Home grown actor who is New Orleans through and though. My wife and I first saw him in The Mystery of Irma Vep. After that, we sought out everything that he either performed in or directed. He is side-splitting funny. One of his plays, The Black and White Blues was picked up and performed Off-Broadway. He has traveled all over performing, but New Orleans is his home. It would be a comical dinner with Ricky Graham there.
So this is my list.
Hey, who knows, tomorrow my “5” might change.
Oct. – Nov. 2008
I am sure you have seen these blogs, articles, emails, etc. I actually have been thinking about this as well. In passing, I heard something on one of the National News Shows about it, but I didn’t catch the details. If you Google the subject, you get many hits.
So, here is my list and reasons (if they may make sense) why:
Before I get to the list. Let me narrow the possible choices down. My list includes people who 1-are alive; 2- people I don’t know personally. Unfortunately, these guidelines almost cause the list consist of “famous” people (my list is not intended that way….but).
So here is my list and reasons:
Before I get to the “5”, I will list some “Honorable Mentions” (so to speak).
When I started thinking about this, many people came to my mind. A lot more people came to mind than the number that is listed below. I couldn’t list them all so here are the “Honorable Mentions”.
Note: there are some intriguing people on this list, picking the “5” was difficult.
LUNCH
Queen Latifah – Actress, Singer, etc. she was actually on my short list for dinner. Something about her presence moves me. I think she would be a great Dinner guest.
Michael Stipe – lead singer for R.E.M. his surreal lyrics are attractive. I don’t necessarily agree with all of his views but they would be fun to discuss.
Dave Grohl – in my mind one of the most talented musicians – period. Former drummer for Nirvana and front man for the Foo Fighters. On the first Foo Fighters album – he played all of the instruments and recorded the whole thing himself.
Bob Mould – was Guitarist, vocalist and songwriter for one of my favorite bands, Husker Du. I enjoy his website and his blogs. If he ever played close to New Orleans, I would be there. He appeals to me, not just his music but his thoughts, etc.
John McCain – I had to laugh. He was quoted as saying that he can now rest at night. He has been one of America’s best.
Robert Duvall – by far one of my favorite actors. Bobby. I love his movies and think that he would fun to talk to.
Denzel Washington – like Duvall, one of my favorite actors. I would like to talk about some of the “real life” roles he has taken in the past and his thoughts on the real life people he portrayed.
Morgan Freeman – Again, he is one of the best actors of all time. He is from Mississippi which makes him a neighbor. His knowledge of the past and thoughts of the present and future would be quite fascinating to listen to.
Natalie Merchant – lead singer of the 10,000 Maniacs. Her lyrics and views are significant. Her singing voice is peaceful. She is one of the best female voices (in song and causes) ever.
Kyra Sedgwick – she is just a great actress. Plus she lives in Manhattan.
Will Smith – “In west Philadelphia…” Will Smith is just good! His humor and his serious side would make for a great visit.
Tommy Lasorda – Former manager of MY Los Angeles Dodgers. I actually told him hello at a Dodgers Spring training awhile back. The rest speaks for itself.
Joe Torre – Current manager of MY Los Angeles Dodgers. He is a true winner. Plus he used to live (and probably still has a house) in Manhattan. I would love to pick his and Lasorda’s brain about baseball.
Orel Hershiser – the “Bulldog”. He was one of the best Dodger pitchers ever. I respect him and think highly of him from the baseball standpoint.
Steve Sax – one of my favorite all time Dodger players. He played 2B in the early 80’s. Former Rookie of the Year.
Joel C. Rosenberg – a terrific author. He is one of my favorites. His books are thought provoking even though most of them are fiction. His web site is excellent. And he is a Christian author.
Sandy Koufax – The Best Major League Pitcher….EVER. His record speaks for itself. He still deals with the Dodgers, but he is a very private person. I would like to just sit and chit chat. If I had a dog, its name would be KOUFAX.
Nicholas Cage – Like Duvall, Smith, Washington, etc. He is one of the best actors around. I haven’t seen a Cage movie I did not like.
Joe Paterno – No disrespect to Paul “Bear” Bryant, but Mr. Paterno has to be the greatest College Football coach of all time. He just keeps going………Imagine the conversations you could have with him.
Eric Clayton – Lead Singer of the Christian Gothic Rock band, Saviour Machine. The band’s lyrics are enormous. Their Legend series is awesome. I would pry and ask him when or if the Legend series will ever be completed.
Henry Ross Perot – I just like this guy. Plus I think his financial views could actually help the U.S. through our current crisis.
All of the above listed would be tremendous to have dinner with, but I had to pick 5. Below is my “5”
Ted Dekker – Without a doubt, my favorite author. I have read all but 2 of Ted’s books (and I will be getting to them soon). Two of his books have been turned into movies. In my opinion, all of his books would make a great movie. Ted is a Christian author whose mind is staggering. The stories that come from his pages seize me and don’t let me go. Many of his books and stories intertwine and that blows me away. One of his sayings is to “Dive Deep.” A conversation with him would be deep, but oh so entertaining and thought provoking.
Mike Ness – I like all kinds of music. I like many bands. If you made me choose my favorite band, it would be Social Distortion. Mike Ness started Social Distortion in 1978. I remember watching the Documentary Another State of Mind in the early 80’s. I saw that and thought that this band, Social Distortion would be more than just a young Punk band. And they were. They evolved into something fantastic. Much of this was due to Ness and co-founder Dennis Danell (he passed in 2000). Ness has battled drug addiction and other issues (he is the only original member still with the band) and much of his life has come out in his lyrics. Ness formed Time Bomb records as well as Black Kat Kustoms (he love old cars). He recorded two solo albums in 1999 as well. I think talking to him about life’s experiences and struggles would make for a stimulating dinner. My little brother and I actually met Mike Ness. We went to one of his solo shows in New Orleans and shook his hand in front of his tour bus. He is just a cool dude.
Bobby Flay – This guy can cook. I love his style and combinations in cooking. My wife and I ate at Mesa Grill in Manhattan. Was he there? Who knows, but one thing for sure, the influence he has on that menu is marvelous. I had to include a Chef on this list, but beyond Bobby Flay’s cooking, his business sense and personality (at least what we see on TV) make him worthy of this choice. He has hosted several Food TV programs and owns 6 restaurants. Plus if he is invited to dinner, he can cook (and give some pointers).
Vaclav Havel – “The real test of a man is not when he plays the role that he wants for himself, but when he plays the role destiny has for him.” This quote from Havel is one of my favorites. He is a Czech playwright, writer and politician. He was the tenth (and last) President of Czechoslovakia (from 1989 to 1992) and the first President of the Czech Republic (1993 – 2003). He wrote 20 plus plays and many non-fiction works. He received much recognition for his work and has received many honors. He led the Czech Republic to a multi-party democracy. He is still very influential today (in the Czech Republic and abroad).
Ricky Graham – New Orleans’ own. Ricky is a Home grown actor who is New Orleans through and though. My wife and I first saw him in The Mystery of Irma Vep. After that, we sought out everything that he either performed in or directed. He is side-splitting funny. One of his plays, The Black and White Blues was picked up and performed Off-Broadway. He has traveled all over performing, but New Orleans is his home. It would be a comical dinner with Ricky Graham there.So this is my list.
Hey, who knows, tomorrow my “5” might change.
Thursday, November 13, 2008
CHRYSOSTOM
Chrysostom
11/12/08
“So destructive a passion is avarice that to grow rich without injustice is impossible.” – John Chrysostom
Chrysostom was not his family name. It was a nickname meaning “Golden-Mouthed.” He was a very moving speaker.
He was born in 349 and died in 407. He was kidnapped as a child and elevated to Bishop of Constantinople (capital of the Eastern Roman Empire). He was elevated to Bishop against his will.
All things happen for a reason. Upon being named Bishop, he immediately began reforming the church.
You have to love him. He refused all of the “perks” that came along with being a Bishop. He tossed out the expensive art work and wardrobe of those before him. He even gave money to the poor after selling gold communion cups. He saw the Church in the correct way at that time. He saw it not as a power or political structure but as “the right agent for social change.”
He often taught that it was not enough to worship at the church alter. The genuine alters our bodies that were given to us by God.
Among saints, John Chrysostom is remembered as a great preacher. He preached that “as we serve one another – especially the poor – we grow to be like Christ.”
He was exiled by the Empress Eudoxia after he rebuked her for her public exhibit of vanity. He passed away as a homeless, forgotten prisoner.
Until one day, a former student of St. John, Saint Proclus, Patriarch of Constantinople preached a message glorifying St. John. He said “O John! Thy life was filled with difficulties, but thy death was glorious, thy grave is blessed and reward abundant through the grace and mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ. O graced one, having conquered the bounds of time and place! Love hath conquered space, unforgetting memory hath annihilated the limits, and place doth not hinder the miracles of the saint.”
Those who heard that sermon talked Proclus into getting with the emperor, so that the relics of St. John be transferred to Constantinople. And they were. The emperor sent a message that was read at the grave of St. John then they took his relics to Constantinople. They opened the coffin and his body was their, free of decay.
I won
’t go on but please read upon on John Chrysostom. You will be happy that you did.
11/12/08
“So destructive a passion is avarice that to grow rich without injustice is impossible.” – John Chrysostom
Chrysostom was not his family name. It was a nickname meaning “Golden-Mouthed.” He was a very moving speaker.
He was born in 349 and died in 407. He was kidnapped as a child and elevated to Bishop of Constantinople (capital of the Eastern Roman Empire). He was elevated to Bishop against his will.
All things happen for a reason. Upon being named Bishop, he immediately began reforming the church.
You have to love him. He refused all of the “perks” that came along with being a Bishop. He tossed out the expensive art work and wardrobe of those before him. He even gave money to the poor after selling gold communion cups. He saw the Church in the correct way at that time. He saw it not as a power or political structure but as “the right agent for social change.”
He often taught that it was not enough to worship at the church alter. The genuine alters our bodies that were given to us by God.
Among saints, John Chrysostom is remembered as a great preacher. He preached that “as we serve one another – especially the poor – we grow to be like Christ.”
He was exiled by the Empress Eudoxia after he rebuked her for her public exhibit of vanity. He passed away as a homeless, forgotten prisoner.
Until one day, a former student of St. John, Saint Proclus, Patriarch of Constantinople preached a message glorifying St. John. He said “O John! Thy life was filled with difficulties, but thy death was glorious, thy grave is blessed and reward abundant through the grace and mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ. O graced one, having conquered the bounds of time and place! Love hath conquered space, unforgetting memory hath annihilated the limits, and place doth not hinder the miracles of the saint.”
Those who heard that sermon talked Proclus into getting with the emperor, so that the relics of St. John be transferred to Constantinople. And they were. The emperor sent a message that was read at the grave of St. John then they took his relics to Constantinople. They opened the coffin and his body was their, free of decay.
I won
’t go on but please read upon on John Chrysostom. You will be happy that you did.Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Today...
Nov. 11, 2008
What am I doing today (or recently).
I am reading: The Darkest Evening of the Year - Dean Koontz. First time reading a Koontz novel.
I just finished Sinner by Dekker.
looking forward to: 2 future Ted Dekker novels in 2009.
Movies: We recently saw August - to quote those two guys on In Living Colour "Hated It".
Young at Heart - must see documentary. check out the link. http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1047007/
http://www.youngatheartchorus.com/
Dancing With the Stars - my inner dancer comes out.
Looking Forward to : Lost - the new season - coming in Jan. 09. Can't wait.
What I am: Tired- driver's truck wouldn't start - up at 0220 - watched the clock until almost 4.
Message to Jarret Lee: When LSU signed you I said that you would be a BIG part in a LSU National Championship. I still believe that.
I thought LSU would lose 3 games this year, go to a decent bowl game, win it, end up in the top 12.
What am I listening to: Tourniquet: Crawl to China and Coldplay on youtube.
Fantasy Football update: I started 4 and 0......haven't won a game since............enough said.
What I am working on for future blogs:
"Wade's 100"
John Chrysoston
Some poems from the archive.
What am I doing today (or recently).
I am reading: The Darkest Evening of the Year - Dean Koontz. First time reading a Koontz novel.
I just finished Sinner by Dekker.
looking forward to: 2 future Ted Dekker novels in 2009.
Movies: We recently saw August - to quote those two guys on In Living Colour "Hated It".
Young at Heart - must see documentary. check out the link. http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1047007/
http://www.youngatheartchorus.com/
Dancing With the Stars - my inner dancer comes out.
Looking Forward to : Lost - the new season - coming in Jan. 09. Can't wait.
What I am: Tired- driver's truck wouldn't start - up at 0220 - watched the clock until almost 4.
Message to Jarret Lee: When LSU signed you I said that you would be a BIG part in a LSU National Championship. I still believe that.
I thought LSU would lose 3 games this year, go to a decent bowl game, win it, end up in the top 12.
What am I listening to: Tourniquet: Crawl to China and Coldplay on youtube.
Fantasy Football update: I started 4 and 0......haven't won a game since............enough said.
What I am working on for future blogs:
"Wade's 100"
John Chrysoston
Some poems from the archive.
Thursday, November 6, 2008
The LAST Political Blog of 2008
The Last Political Blog of 2008
Maybe
11/6/08
The Presidential Race: I didn’t vote for Barack Obama, but he is our President and I will support him. We have no choice. I, in the past, have prayed for our leaders in all areas and will continue to do so. I hope some of the ideas Obama has will go through. I wanted John McCain to win because when he ran against George W. Bush 8 years ago in the Republican primary; I knew he would be our next President. His ideas and values were second to none. I had very high hopes for our country. Then he lost to Bush and the rest (I guess) is history. I don’t think George W. Bush was our worst President ever, but after 8 years, I would have to say that he wasn’t even close to the top. Let me just put it this way:
He is not his dad. His dad is not Reagan. Ronald Reagan was one of the best. I will always like Jimmy Carter. Ironic. I will give George W. Bush a little credit here: based on my lifetime and what I read in the history books, W. is probably in the bottom half.
How much power does a U.S. President really have?
So Barrack Obama – God Speed.
Everyone, Barrack Obama won. Those idiotic emails about race, etc. Give it a rest. Like him or not, no one should be the but of the types of e mails that I have seen (AND DELETED ABOUT 1 SECOND AFTER LOOKING – in other words once opened those e mails don’t last very long.
Also the Palin jokes and McCain jokes on late night TV. Guys, use you talent for something else. IT AINT FUNNY!
Wade – move on………
Sarah Palin in 2012? I will get back to you in 2011.
Bobby Jindal (current Louisiana Governor) in 2012? I do know, based on reports that he plans on running for Governor again in 2011. But I will tell you this, if he runs, he has my vote!!!!!!!!
And finally….Kudos for California, Florida and Arizona!!!!!!!
As you probably know, the state of California voted to BAN Same Sex marriage.
Amendments to ban gay marriage were also approved in Florida and Arizona.
Also, voters in Arkansas approved a measure banning unmarried couples from serving as adoptive or foster parents.
Until the next Hot Political time …..
Maybe
11/6/08
The Presidential Race: I didn’t vote for Barack Obama, but he is our President and I will support him. We have no choice. I, in the past, have prayed for our leaders in all areas and will continue to do so. I hope some of the ideas Obama has will go through. I wanted John McCain to win because when he ran against George W. Bush 8 years ago in the Republican primary; I knew he would be our next President. His ideas and values were second to none. I had very high hopes for our country. Then he lost to Bush and the rest (I guess) is history. I don’t think George W. Bush was our worst President ever, but after 8 years, I would have to say that he wasn’t even close to the top. Let me just put it this way:
He is not his dad. His dad is not Reagan. Ronald Reagan was one of the best. I will always like Jimmy Carter. Ironic. I will give George W. Bush a little credit here: based on my lifetime and what I read in the history books, W. is probably in the bottom half.
How much power does a U.S. President really have?
So Barrack Obama – God Speed.
Everyone, Barrack Obama won. Those idiotic emails about race, etc. Give it a rest. Like him or not, no one should be the but of the types of e mails that I have seen (AND DELETED ABOUT 1 SECOND AFTER LOOKING – in other words once opened those e mails don’t last very long.
Also the Palin jokes and McCain jokes on late night TV. Guys, use you talent for something else. IT AINT FUNNY!
Wade – move on………
Sarah Palin in 2012? I will get back to you in 2011.
Bobby Jindal (current Louisiana Governor) in 2012? I do know, based on reports that he plans on running for Governor again in 2011. But I will tell you this, if he runs, he has my vote!!!!!!!!
And finally….Kudos for California, Florida and Arizona!!!!!!!
As you probably know, the state of California voted to BAN Same Sex marriage.
Amendments to ban gay marriage were also approved in Florida and Arizona.
Also, voters in Arkansas approved a measure banning unmarried couples from serving as adoptive or foster parents.
Until the next Hot Political time …..
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
The Bulldog of Bergen and The Hurricane
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
The Bulldog of Bergen and The Hurricane
The Bulldog of Bergen and The Hurricane11-4-08Cinderella Man was one of the nicknames (along with Bulldog of Bergen) that were given to James J. Braddock. You’ve probably heard of the movie Cinderella Man (starring Russell Crowe, Renee’ Zellweger, and Paul Giamatti – and directed by Ron Howard). This was yet another movie that sparked my interest and made me dig to get more information. I love movies like this.Three of my favorite sports movies are about boxing (and boxing is one of my least favorite sports). Cinderella Man, Resurrecting The Champ (past blog – see Archives), and The Hurricane are three tremendous movies. They are “Wade Must See flicks.” The true stories behind these movies are what draw them to me. I think what “life-lessons” I saw in them just made me fall in love with them. I actually would call them “Life” movies instead of Sports movies.Cinderella Man’s story was an inspiring drama about never giving up (and much more). There are so many movies about never giving up, but something about this one grabbed me. What makes it better is the movie is pretty true to the real life story of the boxer known as Cinderella Man (the account of foe, Max Baer is probably harsher than Baer really was, but much of the movie is right on target with the true story).In the summer of 1935 James Walter Braddock won the Heavyweight Championship of the World as a huge underdog. He beat a younger Max Baer in a unanimous decision. This only capped off an incredible up and down career (after the Baer victory, Braddock lost his title to up and coming Joe Louis). He was born in Hell’s Kitchen in New York City and turned pro at the age of 21. In three years he had a 34-5-7 record with 21 knockouts.His fast rise in the ranks would be followed by a huge slump. He would only win 11 of his next 33 fights.I don’t want to give away too much of the story (in case you watch the movie or read about the Man), but Braddock suffers through injuries and the Great Depression. He gave up boxing during this time to work as a longshoreman. My words would not do Mr. Braddock’s story justice so I encourage you to read up on this remarkable human being. Here some links for that purpose: http://resources.jamesjbraddock.com/
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RINFZ_8BhIw - Braddock vs Baer
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0352248/ To read about movie on IMDB.com
http://www.boxrec.com/list_bouts.php?human_id=012072&cat=boxer Braddock's fights
The Hurricane came out in the Box Office in 1999. Another overwhelming boxing movie about life more than anything. If you haven’t heard this story or seen the movie, please put it on your Netflix cue and move it to the top (or go rent it).Rubin “Hurricane” Carter was a middleweight boxer in the early 60’s who was imprisoned for three murders in New Jersey in 1966. Both the convictions and release were controversial. He was in jail for almost 20 years prior to his release. Carter’s boxing career was definitely overshadowed by the Patterson, NJ murders. His professional record was 27-12-1 (1 draw) with 8 knockouts and 11 TKOs.Rubin Carter’s cause was picked up by many people including Bob Dylan (who wrote the song “Hurricane” http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EotM7FH8uQg and the movie Renaldo and Clara http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Renaldo_and_Clara), and Muhammad Ali.
He wrote the book, The Sixteenth Round: From Number 1 Contender to #45472 http://www.amazon.com/Sixteenth-Round-Number-Contender-45472/dp/0140149295.
This book was eventually read by a young man named Lesra when he was learning to read at the age of 16. Lesra was so engrossed in and moved by Carter’s story, he and his Canadian caregivers picked up the cause and were a huge reason for Carter eventually being release from prison, for good. Also to come out of this was another stirring book, Lazarus and the Hurricane: The Freeing of Rubin “Hurricane” Carter (written by Sam Chaiton and Terry Swinton). http://www.amazon.com/Lazarus-Hurricane-Freeing-Rubin-Carter/dp/0312253974
Again, my words will not do this story justice so please watch the movie and read all you can on this story.
Today and Tomorrow
Today is the Day!!!!!
And Tomorrow is the day that we do not have to endure those daft political commercials.
Hallelujah!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Hopefully everyone who is registered has or will exercise their right to Vote.
Not they will read this Blog, but whoever wins, Congrats! And God Speed!!!!!!!
11/4/08
And Tomorrow is the day that we do not have to endure those daft political commercials.
Hallelujah!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Hopefully everyone who is registered has or will exercise their right to Vote.
Not they will read this Blog, but whoever wins, Congrats! And God Speed!!!!!!!
11/4/08
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