My wife and I are big supporters of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. Their work is important to us because our daughter has cystic fibrosis. The organization is one of the most well-organized I've ever seen and I'm excited to be a part of the program.
Here lies the problem. Alicia and I, because of our loving friends and family, have made great strides raising money for cystic fibrosis research. We have been so successful, in fact, that I had started thinking of myself as an accomplished fundraiser. Yet I have a lot to learn. I need a fundraising mentor who can guide me in the future, just like there was a time when I needed a senior sailor to guide me. I need someone to teach me how to be more bold, focused, and driven in my fundraising efforts!
In the future, I will be looking for a mentor in this area. My days of just looking like we can raise money are over. Now is the time for action, and action it will be. Someday, CF will not stand for cystic fibrosis...it will stand for Cure Found, and I want to be part of the success story!
For those of you who read this blog because of my spiritual leanings, or because of my technology posts, have no fear! I will apply many of these concepts to those topics and more as time goes by. This is just something that's important to me, so I will write about it from time to time.
Using Open Source to track Fundraising
My wife and I are both big into fundraising. Our daughter, Samantha, has cystic fibrosis. You can read all about the disease by going to our other blog, Making Strides. Because our daughter has this disease, we contribute to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation (CFF) by raising money for better treatments and, we pray, someday a cure. However, even though I use this information for tracking donors for our fundraising activities, what I will be sharing with you today can be used for schools, churches, short-term-mission-trips, and the like. Once you have the basics down, this is a piece of cake!
During our first year as the co-leaders of Team Sam, Alicia and I tracked donations and donors using Microsoft Excel. There's nothing wrong with Excel. I still use it on the ship and Alicia still uses it at home, especially the 2007 version. The problem comes along when a person doesn't have Microsoft Excel. Then what? Not everyone wants to pay the $150 for the office suite.
That's when you can turn to OpenOffice! I know that there are weaknesses to every software, as well as strengths, and Microsoft Excel is one of the few programs that seem to have very few weaknesses, which is why I value it. However, when my Microsoft Office crashed on deployment, I was left without an option. This forced me to use OpenOffice Spreadsheet, which I had downloaded from Sun Microsystems before deployment. I've never looked back. I can do anything I want to with this spreadsheet, including tracking my donors and running the same figures I run on Excel. While not all graphics are available in the same format that they are in Excel, I doubt the average user would notice.
So why this discussion? A new copy of Microsoft Office Excel would have cost me close to $100. Since I would have needed Word and Power Point as well, it would have cost $150. Instead, I got Open Office's entire suite for a $15 donation, and that's because I wanted to give something, not because I had to. Sun Microsystems, the publisher of OpenOffice, requests that users contribute not by sending money, but by helping make the program better. Since I don't have that much knowledge on writing programs, I opted to send a few dollars. Not only have I got my money's worth from the program, but it's made me a believer.
Whether you are a church administrator trying to eek out a little more productivity on older computers, or a CFF fundraiser hoping not to spend money on programs so that you can use that money for other things (or simply save it), OpenOffice will make you a believer too. Open the picture I have above this post and see for yourself how much it looks like Excel. You can also see my headings and how I tracked my small donor base.
How to get it:
If you're using a Windows computer, all you have to do is go to OO's website and download the program. It installs like any other program through Windows. Then you open it up and use it just like you would Microsoft Office! You can save your documents or spreadsheets in Microsoft formats as well, which will be completely compatible with your work computer or your boss's computer.
Best of all...it just works!
On Eating and Being a Missionary
I was so blessed on this last deployment. God not only gave me a four day stop in Kagoshima, a city in my second home country of Japan, but he allowed me the wonderful opportunity to meet with Dale Viljoen (pronounced Filyun). I first met Dale in Sapporo, on the northern island of Hokkaido, in the winter of 1999. Since then, we've had a great friendship through email and blogging.
In Singapore, I listened to Dale (third from the left) speak at a church and then we went out for lunch. During lunch, I balked at eating one of the things offered to me. In my defense, I had eaten many of the things, but some I didn't.
Dale looked across the table at me, in front of my friends and his associates, and said, "Dan, you won't be a good missionary unless you can eat the local food."
I was stunned, to be honest. Thankfully, I played it off ok, but the fact was I got hurt and humbled that day. I don't know if it's how Peter felt when Paul confronted him, but I felt like an idiot. I shoulnd't say it quite like that, because the fact is I recovered quickly, took the lesson learned, and Dale and I parted like the friends we were. It was actually later that I really got humbled.
I'm so grateful to Dale for pointed out my shortcomings. He was a true friend to me that day. And he was right...I won't make a good missionary if I can't handle the local food. I've always struggled with that facet of my ministry and I've always hid behind the "I'm a meat and potatoes kind of guy" excuse...which is really lame.
Tonight, while doing some homework for my seminary class, I read this: "An emptied pan of caterpillars is more convincing that all the empty metaphors of love which missionaries are prone to expend on the heathen." This is a quote out of Readings in Missionary Anthropology II, republished in Perspectives, A Reader. The article was written by William D. Rayburn, a former translation consultant in Africa, among other places. He had told a man once that missionaries should eat the local food, and the man put him to a test with a pan of seared caterpillars.
I've balked before and felt ashamed. On one of my trips to Thailand I picked at my food until everyone else was finished before I threw it away. In Japan, the church I was visiting had to feed me something different because I didn't eat the tofu the rest of the fellowship ate. The list goes on and on, but I don't feel like embarrassing myself further.
Dale was a special friend to me that day in Singapore, and three months later I need another person to ground it home for me because I still can't get it. I would love to be a missionary to Japan some day, but how can I? Not until this, and some other issues, are fixed.
Do you have any stories you feel comfortable sharing? Do you have any advice about getting over fears of food overseas? If you're a missionary, how did you do it?
Dale looked across the table at me, in front of my friends and his associates, and said, "Dan, you won't be a good missionary unless you can eat the local food."
I was stunned, to be honest. Thankfully, I played it off ok, but the fact was I got hurt and humbled that day. I don't know if it's how Peter felt when Paul confronted him, but I felt like an idiot. I shoulnd't say it quite like that, because the fact is I recovered quickly, took the lesson learned, and Dale and I parted like the friends we were. It was actually later that I really got humbled.
I'm so grateful to Dale for pointed out my shortcomings. He was a true friend to me that day. And he was right...I won't make a good missionary if I can't handle the local food. I've always struggled with that facet of my ministry and I've always hid behind the "I'm a meat and potatoes kind of guy" excuse...which is really lame.
Tonight, while doing some homework for my seminary class, I read this: "An emptied pan of caterpillars is more convincing that all the empty metaphors of love which missionaries are prone to expend on the heathen." This is a quote out of Readings in Missionary Anthropology II, republished in Perspectives, A Reader. The article was written by William D. Rayburn, a former translation consultant in Africa, among other places. He had told a man once that missionaries should eat the local food, and the man put him to a test with a pan of seared caterpillars.
I've balked before and felt ashamed. On one of my trips to Thailand I picked at my food until everyone else was finished before I threw it away. In Japan, the church I was visiting had to feed me something different because I didn't eat the tofu the rest of the fellowship ate. The list goes on and on, but I don't feel like embarrassing myself further.
Dale was a special friend to me that day in Singapore, and three months later I need another person to ground it home for me because I still can't get it. I would love to be a missionary to Japan some day, but how can I? Not until this, and some other issues, are fixed.
Do you have any stories you feel comfortable sharing? Do you have any advice about getting over fears of food overseas? If you're a missionary, how did you do it?
Men's Ministry: Where to Find Your Mentor
Let me first be frank...you have to want one to get one. If you don't really want a mentor, then all of the seeking in the world is just a sham cover to keep you from having to admit you don't want to play along. However, for those who genuinely want a mentor, who understand the benefits of being mentored, I have some ideas on how to find one through your local church.
Before going any further, let me talk to the would-be mentors out there. You don't have to wait until someone comes to find you. I will discuss this in a future post. You can go get your own protege without waiting on him. After all, it could be that the young man doesn't think he needs a mentor, or doesn't want one. Many of my mentors have found me without me looking for them. I have sought some out, which is why I write this, but you don't have to wait that long. If you see a young man who has something you want to develop, go get him!
For those who are looking for a mentor, I want to tell you where you won't find one: Your small group at church. More than likely, your small group is a “people of the same season of life” group. Either you're in a young-marrieds, young families, singles, career singles, etc. These folks, as wise as they are, will not be able to mentor you in most cases. If you want to serve God and your fellows with all of the power God gave you, then you need to find someone older and more experienced.
Here are my three suggestions for finding a mentor:
1.Go to your Men's Ministry Breakfast:
Let's face it...most younger men don't wake up early enough on Saturday morning to go to the men's breakfast. Even I'm guilty of this one and on days I don't oversleep I often have other events going on. However, if you're looking for a mentor, your options bloom at the men's breakfast. You'll have plenty of white-haired men there with nothing but wisdom and experiences to pass on to you, and almost always a willing heart to do so. Almost every time I've gone to my church's men's breakfast I've gotten caught up in swapping sea stories with old salts who have this experience I need. So go to your men's breakfast!
2.Hang out with the old men at the Men's Retreat:
We are naturally drawn to men of our own age and season of life. I am more chummy with men who have young children and are career-minded. If I am in need of a mentor, however, this attitude won't do. It's simply prideful and weak. It is prideful because it carries the attitude that the older generation has nothing to offer me...it is weak because I'm not humble enough to admit I could use the help. Deal with it, swallow some pride, and get with an old man.
3.Go to the traditional service at church:
This one might be the hardest for a potential protege to submit to because just about everything is different at the traditional service. It's almost like walking into a different culture. But if you want a mentor, go to the traditional service. Watch who hands out the bulletins before service. Who are the ushers? Who does the announcements before the sermon (if it's not the pastor)? Look for clues for a mentor. Be especially mindful of the guys who are active in church. They are the ones who probably have more to give as far as ministry experience is concerned. This isn't always true, but it's a good start.
Don't ever discount your Men's Ministry as a place to find your mentor. If you've been putting off getting a mentor, then stop dawdling and follow these three tips to find one! And when you're looking, keep in mind these other three thoughts!
Before going any further, let me talk to the would-be mentors out there. You don't have to wait until someone comes to find you. I will discuss this in a future post. You can go get your own protege without waiting on him. After all, it could be that the young man doesn't think he needs a mentor, or doesn't want one. Many of my mentors have found me without me looking for them. I have sought some out, which is why I write this, but you don't have to wait that long. If you see a young man who has something you want to develop, go get him!
For those who are looking for a mentor, I want to tell you where you won't find one: Your small group at church. More than likely, your small group is a “people of the same season of life” group. Either you're in a young-marrieds, young families, singles, career singles, etc. These folks, as wise as they are, will not be able to mentor you in most cases. If you want to serve God and your fellows with all of the power God gave you, then you need to find someone older and more experienced.
Here are my three suggestions for finding a mentor:
1.Go to your Men's Ministry Breakfast:
Let's face it...most younger men don't wake up early enough on Saturday morning to go to the men's breakfast. Even I'm guilty of this one and on days I don't oversleep I often have other events going on. However, if you're looking for a mentor, your options bloom at the men's breakfast. You'll have plenty of white-haired men there with nothing but wisdom and experiences to pass on to you, and almost always a willing heart to do so. Almost every time I've gone to my church's men's breakfast I've gotten caught up in swapping sea stories with old salts who have this experience I need. So go to your men's breakfast!
2.Hang out with the old men at the Men's Retreat:
We are naturally drawn to men of our own age and season of life. I am more chummy with men who have young children and are career-minded. If I am in need of a mentor, however, this attitude won't do. It's simply prideful and weak. It is prideful because it carries the attitude that the older generation has nothing to offer me...it is weak because I'm not humble enough to admit I could use the help. Deal with it, swallow some pride, and get with an old man.
3.Go to the traditional service at church:
This one might be the hardest for a potential protege to submit to because just about everything is different at the traditional service. It's almost like walking into a different culture. But if you want a mentor, go to the traditional service. Watch who hands out the bulletins before service. Who are the ushers? Who does the announcements before the sermon (if it's not the pastor)? Look for clues for a mentor. Be especially mindful of the guys who are active in church. They are the ones who probably have more to give as far as ministry experience is concerned. This isn't always true, but it's a good start.
Don't ever discount your Men's Ministry as a place to find your mentor. If you've been putting off getting a mentor, then stop dawdling and follow these three tips to find one! And when you're looking, keep in mind these other three thoughts!
Ubuntu CE: Interview with the Project Lead
Note: I added links when appropriate to give you a chance to further research topics we covered in the interview.
DF: What prompted the Christian Edition? What was the "aha" moment?
JH: Well, I saw an internet post about Jesux which was/is a hoax distro. I also saw Ichthux which at the time appeared to be dead. So I basically just decided to build one.
DF: What was the original goal, and has that changed over time?
JH: The goal has always been to offer a niche distro for Christians with built in and easy to configure Parental Controls. The goal hasn't really changed over time but the method of delivery has shifted a bit from release to release.
DF: How much success did the earlier versions have, and how much success would you say CE is having now?
JH: The first few releases were met with skepticism, criticism, and outright contempt. Many people lampooned it and were very hurtful in the response. Ubuntu Satanic Edition was a direct response to our efforts. However, over time those who wanted such a distro have proven that it is needed and wanted. Also other niche distros have spawned since our release such Ubuntu Muslim Edition. I don't take credit for starting anything, but I believe we did help to jump start things a bit.
DF: What made you turn over to David and just hold the Project Lead position?
JH: Well, I had basically ended the project due to other projects that were/are taking a lot of my time such as TheJesusTV.com. David came along and was willing to take over much of the development so I jumped on it. David is awesome and shares the same goals as I do.
DF: How much control do you maintain over the actual distribution as the Project Lead vice being the Development Lead?
JH: Well, I have always wanted the distro to be a community effort. I will still continue to ensure that each release maintains the goals and integrity of previous editions. However, I view David as a partner in this and trust that he is working for the same thing that I am.
DF: What is the future of CE? And Linux for the Christian context?
JH: Well, we (David) is working on a Ubuntu CE Server Edition that will be released soon. This should open up some opportunities for Churches that need Church Management software. As far as Linux as a whole, I hope that Ubuntu CE will help Christians realize that there are options out there.
DF: Can CE ever become what churches and believers use exclusively? Or will Windows always hold that privilege?
JH: Just like the broader Linux world, Ubuntu CE does face some obstacles. However, every time someone switches to Linux we all move closer to the day that hardware manufactures will develop drivers for Linux. This is one of the big things that needs to happen to ensure that people can use their computers to their fullest on Linux. So, yes I do think it (Linux) could become the dominate OS for most everyone. It is just a matter of timing and perception.
DF: What would you say to a church administrator who is looking to upgrade his equipment? Would you try to sway him to CE?
JH: I think Ubuntu CE is a great option for anyone that is looking to upgrade on a budget. So yes I would definitely recommend it to him/her.
DF: Thanks to Jereme for his willingness to answer my questions. If anyone is interested in joining the project as a contributor, leave a comment detailing what you'd like to do or see. And if you want to give Ubuntu CE a try, and you need some help, leave a comment here and I'll get in touch with you.
Mentoring Poll and What's still to come...
I need some help. I would be tickled pink if you would take a look at the poll to your right and vote. Then, if you're feeling especially interested, take a moment and look at my post from yesterday, about mentoring. I would appreciate any comments you might have on the subject. Thanks!
As for what's next, I will be posting another interview this weekend. This time it will be with the Project Lead and creator of Ubuntu Christian Edition, Jereme Hancock. I'm really looking forward to it!
Next week I will discuss a little more about mentoring, but we'll focus on what it means to the church. I'll also focus a post on the upcoming US Navy Evaluation cycle for E6 Sailors. It's that time of the year!
We'll do more posts too, but that's a brief look ahead.
Anyway, I'm looking forward to hearing your thoughts on mentoring and seeing the results of the voting!
As for what's next, I will be posting another interview this weekend. This time it will be with the Project Lead and creator of Ubuntu Christian Edition, Jereme Hancock. I'm really looking forward to it!
Next week I will discuss a little more about mentoring, but we'll focus on what it means to the church. I'll also focus a post on the upcoming US Navy Evaluation cycle for E6 Sailors. It's that time of the year!
We'll do more posts too, but that's a brief look ahead.
Anyway, I'm looking forward to hearing your thoughts on mentoring and seeing the results of the voting!
My Mentor
My mentor knows I have a blog. Thankfully, as far as I know, he doesn't read it. That's good because I'm about to talk about him (in good ways). I've written about mentoring from time to time, both in the military context and the Christian context, but I haven't given as many real examples as I would have liked to. That stops today. In this post I want to give you a real idea of how to be a mentor.
So here's what you'll need to do to be a good mentor:
First, my mentor evaluated me. This is an important first step for all mentoring relationships. Now, I don't know exactly what my mentor was looking for, but what I do know is that there must be a reason he picked me instead of other junior 1st Class Petty Officers that he could have picked. Maybe it was because I needed so much work at the time or maybe I showed promise or maybe I was already on the right track and he wanted to continue that. At any rate, there was something he saw that made him want to mentor me. This is evaluation, and if this step is skipped, the relationship will be off from day one.
Second, my mentor let me know who was in charge of the relationship. One of the first things he said to me was, "If you'll do exactly what I tell you to do, your career will take a new turn." This left virtually zero room for me to run the relationship. I wanted my career to take a new (better) turn, therefore I had to follow him, therefore I would not be leading the relationship. Do you see how he did that? If you are just enjoying a modified friendship in your mentoring, then its fine, but not necessarily mentoring. Mentoring means one person is guiding the other. My mentor has guided me for going on two years.
Third, he gave me chances to make decisions. Even though he was in charge of the relationship, he knew that I needed confidence and that only came through being in charge. I can remember one day, when I was standing watch as the Combat Systems Officer Of the Watch (CSOOW), I asked him about an issue and what I should do about it. He said, "I don't know...you're the CSOOW!" I had no choice but to make the call, and I did! I was shaky for a long time; maybe too long, but you wouldn't know it today. Now, in most situations, I make decisions without him even knowing I'm making them. I don't have to consult him as much anymore because he instilled in me confidence in my abilities. One of his favorite phrases over the past few years has been, "FC1, you know the answer already." And most of the time, he was right!
Fourth, he gave me responsibility. About six months ago, I was given the title as Combat Systems Department Leading Petty Officer. With that came the responsibility to literally be the go-to man in my department. I am the departmental mentorship coordinator, department career counselor, CSOOW watch coordinator, and CSOOW trainer, along with many other jobs. In short, I have a lot of responsibility. Senior Chief gave me increasingly more responsibility as I grew. He doesn't question my authority in front of others either, even if I'm wrong.
And on that note, when I'm wrong, he waits until the situation is over (as long as safety isn't involved) and counsels me on the issue privately. Then he gives me the chance to fix the problem. If I told someone to do the wrong thing, I am the one who gets to fix it, which is humbling, but at least the embarrassment is kept to a minimum.
Also on the note of responsibility, Senior Chief backs my play. A few months ago I was having trouble with a fellow first class. When senior ordered the other first classes to report to me on an issue, this particular sailor skipped me and went straight to Senior Chief. Senior's response was, "Run that through FC1 Smith, just like I told you, and he will give it to me." Yes, it was an extra and maybe an unnecessary step, but the fact is, he was building me up as the authority. It is an authority I carry today without argument in the department.
This is how Paul worked on Timothy's behalf. "I Paul, with Timothy..." is how many epistles start. There were many reasons for doing this (one being that Timothy might have carried some of those letters), but it also served to build Timothy's authority. Can you imagine showing up at a church not just carrying a letter from Paul, but being PART OF the letter? Instant authority, and that is what my mentor does for me.
Fifth, and finally, Senior Chief defends me. Once a chief, who clearly outranked me, essentially ordered me to do something that I disagreed with. I told the chief that I would have to run that past senior chief, who happened to be walking in at the time. When he found out about the order, he told the chief that I was right and that I wouldn't be doing anything of the kind. He totally defended me in that situation.He has proven this over and over.
You know, if it weren't for my mentor, my career would still be mediocre. Because of him, I have had a stellar two years as a First Class Petty Officer. I have risen from the lower middle of the pack to someone who now competes for a top spot among 40 senior sailors. I am grateful to God for placing me under Senior Chief's care. It is only because of God's provision that I have had this opportunity, and I will always be thankful.
So thanks, Senior...and I'll see you at work in a few minutes!
What about you? Did I miss anything?
So here's what you'll need to do to be a good mentor:
First, my mentor evaluated me. This is an important first step for all mentoring relationships. Now, I don't know exactly what my mentor was looking for, but what I do know is that there must be a reason he picked me instead of other junior 1st Class Petty Officers that he could have picked. Maybe it was because I needed so much work at the time or maybe I showed promise or maybe I was already on the right track and he wanted to continue that. At any rate, there was something he saw that made him want to mentor me. This is evaluation, and if this step is skipped, the relationship will be off from day one.
Second, my mentor let me know who was in charge of the relationship. One of the first things he said to me was, "If you'll do exactly what I tell you to do, your career will take a new turn." This left virtually zero room for me to run the relationship. I wanted my career to take a new (better) turn, therefore I had to follow him, therefore I would not be leading the relationship. Do you see how he did that? If you are just enjoying a modified friendship in your mentoring, then its fine, but not necessarily mentoring. Mentoring means one person is guiding the other. My mentor has guided me for going on two years.
Third, he gave me chances to make decisions. Even though he was in charge of the relationship, he knew that I needed confidence and that only came through being in charge. I can remember one day, when I was standing watch as the Combat Systems Officer Of the Watch (CSOOW), I asked him about an issue and what I should do about it. He said, "I don't know...you're the CSOOW!" I had no choice but to make the call, and I did! I was shaky for a long time; maybe too long, but you wouldn't know it today. Now, in most situations, I make decisions without him even knowing I'm making them. I don't have to consult him as much anymore because he instilled in me confidence in my abilities. One of his favorite phrases over the past few years has been, "FC1, you know the answer already." And most of the time, he was right!
Fourth, he gave me responsibility. About six months ago, I was given the title as Combat Systems Department Leading Petty Officer. With that came the responsibility to literally be the go-to man in my department. I am the departmental mentorship coordinator, department career counselor, CSOOW watch coordinator, and CSOOW trainer, along with many other jobs. In short, I have a lot of responsibility. Senior Chief gave me increasingly more responsibility as I grew. He doesn't question my authority in front of others either, even if I'm wrong.
And on that note, when I'm wrong, he waits until the situation is over (as long as safety isn't involved) and counsels me on the issue privately. Then he gives me the chance to fix the problem. If I told someone to do the wrong thing, I am the one who gets to fix it, which is humbling, but at least the embarrassment is kept to a minimum.
Also on the note of responsibility, Senior Chief backs my play. A few months ago I was having trouble with a fellow first class. When senior ordered the other first classes to report to me on an issue, this particular sailor skipped me and went straight to Senior Chief. Senior's response was, "Run that through FC1 Smith, just like I told you, and he will give it to me." Yes, it was an extra and maybe an unnecessary step, but the fact is, he was building me up as the authority. It is an authority I carry today without argument in the department.
This is how Paul worked on Timothy's behalf. "I Paul, with Timothy..." is how many epistles start. There were many reasons for doing this (one being that Timothy might have carried some of those letters), but it also served to build Timothy's authority. Can you imagine showing up at a church not just carrying a letter from Paul, but being PART OF the letter? Instant authority, and that is what my mentor does for me.
Fifth, and finally, Senior Chief defends me. Once a chief, who clearly outranked me, essentially ordered me to do something that I disagreed with. I told the chief that I would have to run that past senior chief, who happened to be walking in at the time. When he found out about the order, he told the chief that I was right and that I wouldn't be doing anything of the kind. He totally defended me in that situation.He has proven this over and over.
You know, if it weren't for my mentor, my career would still be mediocre. Because of him, I have had a stellar two years as a First Class Petty Officer. I have risen from the lower middle of the pack to someone who now competes for a top spot among 40 senior sailors. I am grateful to God for placing me under Senior Chief's care. It is only because of God's provision that I have had this opportunity, and I will always be thankful.
So thanks, Senior...and I'll see you at work in a few minutes!
What about you? Did I miss anything?
A Hand Full of Yen...A Heart Full of Hope
Last night it was back...worse than it's been in a very long time. How do I explain away an aching heart? I can't, any more than a person who has lost a loved one can explain the grief he feels. In a way, I am losing a loved one. I've never felt so on fire for a place as I have Japan, and it hasn't mattered what city I have been in...the love (and the hurt) is the same. With the lone exception of my trip to Kagoshima a few months ago (which I am eternally grateful for), I have not been back to Japan since I left in 2000.
I have tried multiple times. Each time God has said no. Each time I have tried to make sense of His decision, or tried to explain it away, or tried to out-shout my Father. But he would have nothing of it. His decision was final, at least until I got back to Kagoshima.
And I can't go back in any way other than as a visiting sailor, at least not for the foreseeable future. God has blessed us with a set of circumstances that do not support going to Japan. It was, so it seemed, the final locking of the already shut door. And it hurts.
I don't know why God has decided to do this...I just don't. And I don't know why I can't let it go. But for some reason, I am still hoping for Japan; for the Japanese people. With less than 2% of the population claiming Christ, the odds are not in our favor. But Christ never worked off of odds, did he? He shouldn't have been raised from the dead...but he was. Our God works a game of long odds!
Because of the God I serve, I believe that there is hope for the Japanese. At work yesterday I cleared out a drawer of things from deployment and found some yen. As I held the coins in my hand, I thought, "A handful of yen and a heart full of hope." And that is where I am today...I have a hand full of memories of a country I am desperate for and a heart full of hope that my God is stronger than the odds against him.
Tonight I prayed for Japan and I took a brief walk down a memory lane that I haven't visited in a long time. Several years ago, Alicia put together the most splendid scrapbook of my Navy career overseas. In it, she put together pages like this one:
Memories like that did my heart a lot of good. I also saw pictures of a previous visit with the missionaries in Kagoshima, and in the future I will put that picture up on here once I can scan it better. I also saw pictures of a church in Otaru, which is located on the northern island of Hokkaido, where I spoke in the winter of 1999. It goes without saying that I also saw pictures of Oppama Bible Church, where I called home for a few years in Yokosuka.
On one hand, these memories are all I have. On the other hand, there is much more work to do. God has never told me not to pray for Japan, nor has he never told me to stop hoping for it and its people. I will continue to pray, and hope, and probably I'll write about it more in the future.
In fact, I'm choosing Japan as a country study for my World Missions class (ICST 500) at Liberty Baptist Theological Seminary, as long as my professor approves it.
Do you have an ache in your heart like this? Have you seen the doors shut when you begged for them to be open? What are your thoughts? What would you suggest I do? Any thoughts would be very much appreciated!
Military Fellowship at The Rock Church, San Diego
The Rock Church--San Diego
Last night I was invited by one of my guys to go to church. It was more of a request for a ride to church, but it served God's purpose for my life in a few ways. My friend, whom I had baptized several weeks ago, had started going to to The Rock Church in San Diego. I've lived in San Diego for almost four years (this time around), and I've yet to go to this church. I have an aversion to this big churches, and let me tell you...it's all pride! Every bit of it! I won't go into the specifics, but just know that I struggle here. And because of that, I have avoided going to big churches like The Rock Church.
So when one of my good friend from the ship, whom I had spent numerous hours with on deployment, asked me to go with him, I said yes. At some point, a man has to just get past his fears/arrogance and get on with it. So I decided to be the man last night.
The Rock Church is amazing. This isn't a review of any kind, but let me just say it was amazing. Here are some pictures of what it looks like:
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Yes, it was just plain massive, but you know what? I didn't feel out of place like I thought I would. I didn't feel crowded or anonymous, although I probably could have if I had wanted. I feel like the gospel was preached and I was very, very impressed with the fact that the speaker held an alter call at the end of the service. I wouldn't have thought that possible at such a large church.
Yet that wasn't the point of me going. Yes, I wanted to see what The Rock Church was all about, but I could have done that on any weekend. The real reason I went was to support one of my guys. One of my fellow warriors on the USS Antietam needed a way to get to church, and while I won't be leaving my family on a regular occasion, Alicia and I felt it was ok for this time. I called another guy and he was also going that night, so we all sat together.
It reminds me of our times in Kagoshima, Hong Kong, and many other places overseas. The difference this time is that I was the one being invited. It was so awesome. My buddies have come so far so fast! Now I'm the one who is being invited to take part in something, and that, my friends, is the best blessing of them all.
So it did my heart a lot of good to be in this situation. First, I got to see an amazing church that I would have continued to put off because of my pride and fears. Secondly, and most importantly, I got to see guys I had been mentoring on deployment in their element, where they were the ones who knew what was going on, and where they were in charge. It did me, and I think my friends, a lot of good.
Football Season!
I'm taking a quick break from my first seminary paper to write about football. Last week I touched on who my favorite college teams were, and I'm very happy to announce that my college teams went 3-0 this weekend. Navy beat Louisiana Tech, Kansas beat UTEP, and Liberty beat North Carolina Central. So it was a very successful Saturday!
But now it's time to turn our attention to the professional side of sports. I would like to submit first my favorite professional team: The Kansas City Chiefs. Ok, now that we got that over with, on to Fantasy Football! I have had teams for years, always called the Ministers, but this year is the first time that Alicia, Timothy, and I have all had fantasy teams. Samantha is still a bit young, so we'll see how she fares later on in her little life. For now, she is the cheerleader!
Here's my team:
Philip Rivers (QB)
Joseph Addai (RB1)
Michael Turner (RB2)
Steve Smith (WR1)
Laurent Robinson (WR2)
Kevin Walter (WR3)
Jason Witten (TE)
Baltimore Ravens Defense
Robbie Gould (K)
I am listed as having a slight advantage this week, but we'll see how it goes. I had to pick up a few free agents in order to pull that slight advantage off as I had a weak draft. We'll see how it all works out!
Timothy has developed an interest in football, although I would say that his favorite athletic activity is still karate. Still, I got a great idea from Jason over at Dad-O-Matic about letting my son help with my fantasy team. I took this a step further and helped him build his own team! He is the San Diego Champions (thanks mom for helping with the name!) and he's totally stoked about the weekend! He wants his Champions to win!
Here's Timothy's team:
Philip Rivers (QB)
Steven Jackson (RB1)
Fred Jackson (RB2)
Dwayne Bowe (WR1)
Calvin Johnson (WR2)
Greg Jennings (WR3)
Chris Cooley (TE)
Dolphins Defense
Mason Crosby (K)
In some ways, I think he fares a little better than I do on talent, but we'll see how it all ends up tomorrow night after Monday Night Football! Mostly I'm just excited to see my son wanting to be a part of the action. I don't know if he'll end up a football player or not, but I like the fact that he's interested!
Do you have a fantasy team? If so, how do you think you'll do this year?
But now it's time to turn our attention to the professional side of sports. I would like to submit first my favorite professional team: The Kansas City Chiefs. Ok, now that we got that over with, on to Fantasy Football! I have had teams for years, always called the Ministers, but this year is the first time that Alicia, Timothy, and I have all had fantasy teams. Samantha is still a bit young, so we'll see how she fares later on in her little life. For now, she is the cheerleader!
Here's my team:
Philip Rivers (QB)
Joseph Addai (RB1)
Michael Turner (RB2)
Steve Smith (WR1)
Laurent Robinson (WR2)
Kevin Walter (WR3)
Jason Witten (TE)
Baltimore Ravens Defense
Robbie Gould (K)
I am listed as having a slight advantage this week, but we'll see how it goes. I had to pick up a few free agents in order to pull that slight advantage off as I had a weak draft. We'll see how it all works out!
Timothy has developed an interest in football, although I would say that his favorite athletic activity is still karate. Still, I got a great idea from Jason over at Dad-O-Matic about letting my son help with my fantasy team. I took this a step further and helped him build his own team! He is the San Diego Champions (thanks mom for helping with the name!) and he's totally stoked about the weekend! He wants his Champions to win!
Here's Timothy's team:
Philip Rivers (QB)
Steven Jackson (RB1)
Fred Jackson (RB2)
Dwayne Bowe (WR1)
Calvin Johnson (WR2)
Greg Jennings (WR3)
Chris Cooley (TE)
Dolphins Defense
Mason Crosby (K)
In some ways, I think he fares a little better than I do on talent, but we'll see how it all ends up tomorrow night after Monday Night Football! Mostly I'm just excited to see my son wanting to be a part of the action. I don't know if he'll end up a football player or not, but I like the fact that he's interested!
Do you have a fantasy team? If so, how do you think you'll do this year?
Update to the About Section
My name is Dan Smith, and I am a Christian. For the moment, I am in the US Navy. My prayer is that God is preparing me for an active part in his Kingdom after I retire so that I can minister for him when the time comes. Different Frequencies is a place where I can write about the different thoughts that come to mind and the different parts that make me who I am.
Here, briefly, are the topics I write about:
• Christianity
In this topic I write about my general thoughts about Christianity, Church, etc. While there are two other topics below that also cover aspects of Christianity, this particular topic is for general theology and strategy thoughts. Some examples of my writing here are my Autumn Resolutions, Serving a Merciful God, and Making Fun of the Bride. I’m not a scholar or a ministry strategist. Instead, I’m just a regular guy who is observing Christianity and making comments.
• Family
My family is very important to me. I have a loving wife, a stellar son, and a precious daughter. I love them all very much. I sincerely hope that I will raise my kids to be God-fearing (as I learn more about how to do that myself) and my ultimate prayer is that they will accept Christ as their savior. My son, I believe, is close…just a matter of time I think. I enjoy writing about family because it allows me to share with readers what makes me happiest about my life here on earth. I’ve written about Fatherly Guilt, How Long Distance Discipline Should Work, and Back to School, among others.
• Mentoring
Helping younger sailors move forward in their careers is something that I find very rewarding. Furthermore, I find a great deal of satisfaction in growing younger believers as well. Fulfillment comes to us all in different ways, but mentoring is something that is very rewarding. I will do more writing in the future on this topic, but some ideas I’ve already covered are How to Pick a Mentor, The Value of Mentorship, and Mentoring: When You’re not Needed Anymore. If any of my posts can help you either find a mentor or a protégé, or help you expand your current mentoring relationships, then I have done my job!
• Military Ministry
I’ve been a sailor for over 13 years, more than 8 of them on ships. I’m finishing up my second sea tour in the next 12 months and it has been very rewarding. One of the rewarding things has been reaching young believers and helping them grow, as well as reaching out to unbelievers on my ship. This topic is for me to write about ministry to sailors primarily, although I’ve worked with other services at times as well. I’ve written about a Baptism in the Pacific Ocean, Work Vs. Ministry, planting a church, and others. If you are praying for the military, then this section is for you!
• Navy
What can I say? I’m a squid! You can read my thoughts on not making chief, Places I’ve been (Hong Kong and Kagoshima), and the US Navy Physical Readiness Program.
• Technology
Finally, I’m a geek! I’m a huge Linux fan and run it on two computers at home. I have the operating system on a thumb drive that I can use at any computer in the world. I don’t know that I’m anti-Microsoft (I’m actually looking forward to seeing Windows 7), but I can tell you for sure that I’m very pro-Linux. I’ve been helping in very small ways with Ubuntu Christian Edition and that has been very rewarding. In fact, you can read about my interview with David Kuntadi, the current developer of Ubuntu CE, my updated review of Ubuntu CE, and (for giggles), my modern day parable of the Lost Computer Cables.
There will be more topics covered in the future, I’m sure, but these topics constitute the primary writing I do. They are topics that I’m passionate about. I hope you’ll find something here that you’re passionate about as well.
So welcome to Different Frequencies! I hope you enjoy your stay!
Here, briefly, are the topics I write about:
• Christianity
In this topic I write about my general thoughts about Christianity, Church, etc. While there are two other topics below that also cover aspects of Christianity, this particular topic is for general theology and strategy thoughts. Some examples of my writing here are my Autumn Resolutions, Serving a Merciful God, and Making Fun of the Bride. I’m not a scholar or a ministry strategist. Instead, I’m just a regular guy who is observing Christianity and making comments.
• Family
My family is very important to me. I have a loving wife, a stellar son, and a precious daughter. I love them all very much. I sincerely hope that I will raise my kids to be God-fearing (as I learn more about how to do that myself) and my ultimate prayer is that they will accept Christ as their savior. My son, I believe, is close…just a matter of time I think. I enjoy writing about family because it allows me to share with readers what makes me happiest about my life here on earth. I’ve written about Fatherly Guilt, How Long Distance Discipline Should Work, and Back to School, among others.
• Mentoring
Helping younger sailors move forward in their careers is something that I find very rewarding. Furthermore, I find a great deal of satisfaction in growing younger believers as well. Fulfillment comes to us all in different ways, but mentoring is something that is very rewarding. I will do more writing in the future on this topic, but some ideas I’ve already covered are How to Pick a Mentor, The Value of Mentorship, and Mentoring: When You’re not Needed Anymore. If any of my posts can help you either find a mentor or a protégé, or help you expand your current mentoring relationships, then I have done my job!
• Military Ministry
I’ve been a sailor for over 13 years, more than 8 of them on ships. I’m finishing up my second sea tour in the next 12 months and it has been very rewarding. One of the rewarding things has been reaching young believers and helping them grow, as well as reaching out to unbelievers on my ship. This topic is for me to write about ministry to sailors primarily, although I’ve worked with other services at times as well. I’ve written about a Baptism in the Pacific Ocean, Work Vs. Ministry, planting a church, and others. If you are praying for the military, then this section is for you!
• Navy
What can I say? I’m a squid! You can read my thoughts on not making chief, Places I’ve been (Hong Kong and Kagoshima), and the US Navy Physical Readiness Program.
• Technology
Finally, I’m a geek! I’m a huge Linux fan and run it on two computers at home. I have the operating system on a thumb drive that I can use at any computer in the world. I don’t know that I’m anti-Microsoft (I’m actually looking forward to seeing Windows 7), but I can tell you for sure that I’m very pro-Linux. I’ve been helping in very small ways with Ubuntu Christian Edition and that has been very rewarding. In fact, you can read about my interview with David Kuntadi, the current developer of Ubuntu CE, my updated review of Ubuntu CE, and (for giggles), my modern day parable of the Lost Computer Cables.
There will be more topics covered in the future, I’m sure, but these topics constitute the primary writing I do. They are topics that I’m passionate about. I hope you’ll find something here that you’re passionate about as well.
So welcome to Different Frequencies! I hope you enjoy your stay!
Where were you on 9/11?
The berthing cleaners were talking near my rack in excited, albeit hushed, tones. Something was wrong, but in my groggy state, I didn’t know what it was. Having been up most of the night before for maintenance, I had just hoped to sleep in a little, as has been modern navy custom. With those guys talking, it would be impossible!
“Look!” shouted one, “a plane hit the World Trade Center!”
I rolled out of my rack and slumped on the floor, exhausted. Putting my flip-flops on (one dares not walk in berthing without them), I assumed a little Cessna had hit the big building. No big deal.
“Another one!” the guy shouted.
I walked over to the television in our lounge and rubbed the sleep from my eyes. “What happened?” I asked.
“Two planes just flew into the World Trade Center!”
All I knew to do was get ready. I don’t really even know why I was getting ready, but I felt I should. Before I had even put both feet into my coveralls, I heard over the loudspeaker: “This is the TAO from Combat…All Hands! Flex Air! Flex Air!” Suddenly, I had more motivation to get ready. I was part of the response team for air defense! I raced up to the Combat Information Center (called “Combat” or “CIC on ships) and checked in. Already the FAA had grounded all aircraft and the USS Mobile Bay was tracking all aircraft still in the air over San Diego and Los Angeles. I watched the screens, still groggy from a lack of sleep, hoping that nothing would happen, yet hoping something would at the same time (a sailor’s dream, I suppose).
It didn’t take long for me to start thinking about Alicia. Once the adrenaline had slowed from a potential combat situation, I realized I had also heard that the ship was no longer sending or receiving email, which meant I couldn’t email my wife. This was just about as real as we had ever been. She was on her own. It was the first time I ever felt worried. I didn’t think San Diego was a very big target, but the radar screens still showed a lot of aircraft in the air. And what if the attackers tried something else?
The next morning we headed north, if I recall, having been relieved in the area by an aircraft carrier. Shortly thereafter we were off the coast of San Francisco, again in the air defense mode. Only by this time, the only thing in the air was combat patrols. It was eerie. I don’t know exactly how to explain it. All of the air lanes were empty…
We spent the next week or so patrolling the West Coast of the States as part of Operation Noble Eagle. Somehow in there I was able to make contact with Alicia and found out that she was ok, although worried about me. I was relieved at both of those things.
Add another week, and we pulled into Port Hueneme Navy Base (Ventura) for planned calibration of our radar systems. This had been scheduled and with things slowly dying down, the top brass decided to send us in for our maintenance. I called Alicia as soon as I could, and she tore off to come meet me.
What a reunion! What joy and relief and excitement and power in that night! I know that some “old hands” who have fought in wars would laugh at us, but I had never been separated like that before. It was amazing to have her in my arms again.
After Port Hueneme, we did some more patrolling and finally arrived back in San Diego for upkeep.
I’ve heard many times from my parents and grandparents that there are certain events where you’ll never forget where you were when it happened. I’ve heard a number of people from my dad’s generation talking about Martin Luther King’s assassination and JFK’s assassination. I’ve also heard from my grandparents about the day Pearl Harbor was attacked.
Now I have my own. I’ll always be able to tell my kids and grandkids about how I woke up on a routine patrol off the coast of San Diego to the word about 9/11 and hearing “Flex Air!”
So what about you? What is your story of that day?
Seminary...When I don't Agree
I’m three weeks into my World Missions Class (ICST500) and I don’t agree with some of the things that I’m being taught by the material. It’s not the fault of my professor, the school, or the writer of the book. I just simply disagree. I’ve voiced my differing opinion a few times on our discussion boards, but I haven’t been a rabble-rouser. A few years ago, this would not have been the case. The Dan who tried seminary two years ago thought he knew everything…thought there was nothing left to learn…thought he could insert a few ideas into the scholarly world and really stir up the pot.
I’m smarter this time around, but I’m not a coward. I’ve voiced concerns, but not arguments. Let me share a few reasons why I don’t challenge the professor or the material:
1. I need to learn: Part of learning is finding out what others believe, even if I don’t personally agree. If I think that I can get through life without disagreeing with someone, even in Christianity, then I’m dead wrong. Life (and God) has already chastised me enough to know that it’s ok for people to disagree with me. I need to learn from them. Seminary is an academic institution. That’s what I’m here for.
2. It could be that I’m the wrong one: Go figure! Maybe I need to refrain from challenging to keep myself from being humiliated later. As the saying goes “Better that someone think you are a fool than to open your mouth and remove all doubt!” I am trying to apply this to my life now.
3. Sometimes it’s just best to keep my mouth shut: I’m almost famous on my ship for being a little too headstrong when it comes to my opinions. If I see a conversation that strikes me as needing my input, then by all means, I jump in! So disturbing, and for that reason, I’m trying to realize that sometimes, zipping it is better than alienating people. I don’t expect that I could alienate anyone in my online class, but why try?
I’m sure other reasons exist as to why I should not talk so much or argue points that I don’t agree with. For the record, I’m not advocating that anyone doesn’t present their case to a class. I presented mine a few weeks ago. I’m only saying that, for me, I have to be careful lest I think that the class revolves around me instead of the instruction. We’ll see how this goes.
So have you ever disagreed with a professor or the text for a class? How did you handle it? What were the outcomes?
I’m smarter this time around, but I’m not a coward. I’ve voiced concerns, but not arguments. Let me share a few reasons why I don’t challenge the professor or the material:
1. I need to learn: Part of learning is finding out what others believe, even if I don’t personally agree. If I think that I can get through life without disagreeing with someone, even in Christianity, then I’m dead wrong. Life (and God) has already chastised me enough to know that it’s ok for people to disagree with me. I need to learn from them. Seminary is an academic institution. That’s what I’m here for.
2. It could be that I’m the wrong one: Go figure! Maybe I need to refrain from challenging to keep myself from being humiliated later. As the saying goes “Better that someone think you are a fool than to open your mouth and remove all doubt!” I am trying to apply this to my life now.
3. Sometimes it’s just best to keep my mouth shut: I’m almost famous on my ship for being a little too headstrong when it comes to my opinions. If I see a conversation that strikes me as needing my input, then by all means, I jump in! So disturbing, and for that reason, I’m trying to realize that sometimes, zipping it is better than alienating people. I don’t expect that I could alienate anyone in my online class, but why try?
I’m sure other reasons exist as to why I should not talk so much or argue points that I don’t agree with. For the record, I’m not advocating that anyone doesn’t present their case to a class. I presented mine a few weeks ago. I’m only saying that, for me, I have to be careful lest I think that the class revolves around me instead of the instruction. We’ll see how this goes.
So have you ever disagreed with a professor or the text for a class? How did you handle it? What were the outcomes?
Back to School Prayer!
Alicia asked me if she could air some of her concerns going into the new school year a few nights ago. She asked me to pray about them, but as we talked, I realized that this was a bigger undertaking than I had planned on. I had wanted a simple prayer to suffice, but God has something in store for this school year. I think one of those things is my discipline. I need to show a little more willpower to push through on things that affect my family. Praying for Timothy's school year is a good opportunity for me.
Because of this, I suggested to Alicia that we make this our prayer for the entire school year, not just this week. We hammered out a rough draft of what we wanted to pray about, and I am including it here for accountability. If it can help you develop a prayer for your child's school year, all the better:
Prayers for Timothy:
1. Protect his Heart (Timothy has a sweet, tender disposition most of the time, and I'm not quite ready for that to be stepped on yet).
2. Protect him from overload and burnout (we're not praying for an easy ride...just not one that will break him).
Prayers for us:
1. Protect us from gossip (you would be surprised at how many rumors and stories can be shared while waiting to pick up one's child after school).
2. Keep me from being dismissive (I am horrible! When I don't think something is that big of a deal, I dismiss it out of hand. This needs to stop).
3. That Timothy's teacher will see his needs (he has SPD). We also pray that she will see his strengths and that she will discipline with grace.
4. That the Lord would provide discernment for us. We will have gut feelings about situations...we pray that the Holy Spirit will let us know if they are right or not.
Finally, for all involved, we pray that truth will shine in all situations!
I have no doubt that our prayers will mold during the school year to fit various situations. For now, however, this will be our prayer.
Timothy, your mother and I are praying for you. You're all you need to be, and whatever God creates in you is what we want. We are committing you back to God, for his use, and we will do whatever we need to do to be a part of God's will for you.--Mom and Dad
Fearless, By Max Lucado
Max Lucado
Fearless
$16.95 (Amazon)
I've read a number of Max Lucado books, so when the opportunity presented itself a few weeks ago to review his latest book, I jumped at the chance! Besides, I needed to work on some things in my life, namely fear and anxiety, topics covered by Lucado in Fearless. The short answer is that he did a great job of covering many fears that I have either felt or heard others going through. In covering topics like the fear of not mattering (Chapter 1) and fear of disappointing God (Chapter 3), Lucado gets to the nerve of what drives humans to despair. I know because I've felt those same feelings.
One of the nicest things about this book is how gentle Lucado is with his readers. Many of us have struggled hard with the things he writes about. Having gentleness as a strength makes this book all the more readable. While some of these topics seem to meld into one even when they are split between chapters, Lucado makes such a compelling argument for trusting God alone and having faith in Christ alone and relying on the Holy Spirit alone, that all believers would be remiss if they didn't get a hold of this book.
Buy here:
Rick and Bubba's Guide to the Almost Nearly Perfect Marriage
By: Rick Burgess and Bill “Bubba” Bussey (with Martha Bolton)
$11.55 at Amazon
$11.55 at Amazon
When I first picked up Rick and Bubba's guide, I thought that it was just a bunch of rednecks cracking jokes. But that was just the first page or two. By page three, these guys were telling men to “man up” and take responsibility. In that example, it was for finding a wife, but they would continue to do it throughout the book. The great thing about it is even when they were having fun with the differences between a man and a woman (and husband and wife), Burgess and Bussey never take away the responsibility from men.
I realized that I truly loved what I was reading when I read “Mama, don't let your babies grow up to be puddin' heads”. While they played a lot with the circumstances that led them to think puddin' heads were being created, it was a pretty good indictment on what we as a society are doing to boys. Yet my favorite chapter of the entire book has marriage as the subject. Actually, it's about forgiveness. “In our marriages, God wants us to be good forgivers, knowing full well that we ourselves have been forgiven.” I loved that quote because it might very well be the key to marriage.
Burgess and Bussey have a lot of fun with married life in their book, but you'll get a lot out of it, and laugh heartily just the same. Definitely worth your time!
A Labor-Day Thank You
Labor Day started in 1882 and was legislated as a federal and state holiday soon after, during the Grover Cleveland administration. Since then, the holiday has been marked by parades, swimming pools, BBQ's, and football. The day is to be a celebration of labor. So today, we will celebrate labor on this blog.
To the men and women who work at NASSCO shipyard in San Diego, I want to thank you for the hard work you put in during our last dry dock repair. This allowed us to deploy on time in January.
Another shipyard to thank is the workers at BAE shipyard, also in San Diego. This used to be called Southwest Marine. At any rate, my last two major upkeep periods were spent at this shipyard, and I've grown to appreciate the work done there.
I'm also grateful for the folks over in Pascagoula, Mississippi, where the USS Antietam was built by Ingalls Shipbuilding (now owned by Northrop). She's a good ship...you all did a good job.
There are countless other laborers and support folks who have made the Antietam what it is today, and I apologize that I didn't thank each of you personally. You all deserve a day of rest, and I hope you enjoy yours. Have a great day and I pray God will bless you all!
Football: Who I'm rooting for...
Well, it's the first weekend for football, and Timothy and I just finished watching Navy come very close to upsetting Ohio State. It was amazing, even if a bit frustrating at the end. Still, watching football again for the first time this season offered an opportunity to put out my favorite football teams for discussion. Since Timothy is using the computer downstairs to familiarize himself with this year's college football season, I thought I'd slide up to my other computer and let you know who I'm rooting for. If you want to suggest a reason I'm insane for liking the teams I do, that's fine, but here are my teams:
1. Kansas: I'm from Kansas, so why would I go for any other team? Oh, I know there was a time when I rooted for K-State during football season, and truth be told, I'd still rather see a Kansas team win than a non-Kansas team win, but for the record, I'm a Kansas fan. I'm very excited about what Todd Reesing and the guys will do this year. I plan on trying out the chant early and often!
2. Navy: A lot of sailors don't care much for the academy because it puts out officers, but I was raised on the academy and KU sports, so I've always been a fan. I have been pleasantly surprised and pleased by the resurgence of Navy football. It was so tiring watching the Air Force win and the Navy never coming close. That has changed since the 90's and I'm glad I've been part of the fan base.
3. Liberty University: Ok, for the record, I'm trying this one on for size. There's no telling how this will turn out. Liberty isn't a strong team and they don't look to get strong any time soon. Still, I'm going to the seminary associated with the school, so I'm going to give it a try this year and see how it goes. I would definitely consider myself a fair-weather fan at this point. I have a blanket that has the Liberty Flames emblem on it, but I got that for registering for my classes early when I started seminary the first time, so that doesn't count. At any rate, I'm associated with the school now, so we'll see how this goes!
Now, you can agree with my logic or not, or accuse me of spreading my loyalty out too much, but let it be known that these are the schools I will be pulling for this year. And most important of all: Rock Chalk, Jayhawk!
2. Navy: A lot of sailors don't care much for the academy because it puts out officers, but I was raised on the academy and KU sports, so I've always been a fan. I have been pleasantly surprised and pleased by the resurgence of Navy football. It was so tiring watching the Air Force win and the Navy never coming close. That has changed since the 90's and I'm glad I've been part of the fan base.
3. Liberty University: Ok, for the record, I'm trying this one on for size. There's no telling how this will turn out. Liberty isn't a strong team and they don't look to get strong any time soon. Still, I'm going to the seminary associated with the school, so I'm going to give it a try this year and see how it goes. I would definitely consider myself a fair-weather fan at this point. I have a blanket that has the Liberty Flames emblem on it, but I got that for registering for my classes early when I started seminary the first time, so that doesn't count. At any rate, I'm associated with the school now, so we'll see how this goes!
Now, you can agree with my logic or not, or accuse me of spreading my loyalty out too much, but let it be known that these are the schools I will be pulling for this year. And most important of all: Rock Chalk, Jayhawk!
Ubuntu CE: Interview with the Developer
Review #1
Review #2 (based on David's comments for Review #1)
Ubuntu CE and Church Management Software
You can also read more about my technology posts here.
I've learned a great deal about how Linux works in general, and specifically how the CE distro is put together, what it has to offer, etc. I like the distribution, and use it on one of my computers at home. I recommend it if you're a believer because it gives you ready-made support items at startup that other distros don't have.
Well, without further ado, here is my interview with David Kuntadi, the current developer at Ubuntu CE:
Note: I added links when appropriate to give you a chance to further research topics we covered in the interview.
DF: What drew you to Ubuntu Christian Edition since you aren't the original developer? What made you want to join?
David: Actually I joined ubuntuforums as normal Ubuntu user. I find that running Windows software in Linux is not easy and I managed to run e-Sword on Linux using WINE. I posted step-by-step instruction and one of the user informed me that I should post that instruction in Ubuntu Christian Edition instead. So, I follow the advice an ever since I am active in ubuntuforums christian edition, mainly to support running e-Sword on Linux.
DF: What is your story behind CE 5.0? What was your process?
David: Actualy Ubuntu CE was discontinued, it is only up to 4.0. Jereme has decided to stop its development due to his limited time.
In the mean time, I have converted the step-by-step instruction for e-Sword to an installer (a script, inspired by winetricks of Dan Kegel), and subsequently I converted the script to deb package. And when Jereme announce that Ubuntu CE is discontinued, I learned what software was in the Ubuntu CE, I had not even used Ubuntu CE before actually. I realized the main program is Dansguardian GUI, which was written by Jereme. After I studied the script, I was sure I could make a better script, except for the GUI.
I changed the GUI to Zenity, which was very easy to make, and then improved the script.
Another problem was the verse pop up using gdesklet. As gdesklets could not run easily in Jaunty, I created linbread and bible trivia to replace the bible verse pop up.
I also learn how to make repository to serve Ubuntu CE packages. The problem with previous release was there is no repository to host the software.
After completing the necessary deb packages and repository, the next step was not so complicated i.e. make ISO file. I studied to edit ISO file using reconstructor to make Ubuntu CE, which is not really difficult.
After releasing the 32 bit ISO, there was a request for 64 bit. After I checked, only Opensong does not support 64 bit. But the good news is that it could be done by adding compatibility library, which was needed by wine 64 bit version anyway. Soon I released the 64 bit version as well.
And other feedback is the necessity of church administration software. So far I could only find ChurchInfo, which is based on server. After studying it a while, I found it I could be released in server version using remastersys. The default greeter created by remastersys was ugly, although functional. So, I edited the greeter to make it look more professional.
DF: What formal training do you have in programming? How did you get started?
David: I do not have any formal training, except some introduction to basica when I was a university student. My background is Mechanical Engineering and International Management.
DF: What is your day job?
David: Currently I am a General Manager in a multinational company.
DF: You just released a server edition...so what's next for CE?
David: That would depend on the feedback. I would need feedback of what are needed by individual christian or churches that is not available yet in Ubuntu or other Linux distribution. Then I will study whether or not I have the capability to fulfill the need. But I expect more people would join the development so as to make it better.
DF: Anything else you think my readers should know?
David: As Linux is available for free, I just want to contribute a little bit by introducing it to Christians, which is a different segment. And I think Linux philosophy is also compatible with Christianity:
"Freely you received, freely give." (Matthew 10:8)
That is why I am interested in Linux, to be able to receive and give freely.
DF: I have one final question: Are you a Christian, and if so, what tradition are you (Catholic, Baptist, Methodist, etc)?
David: Yes, I am a Christian. Previously I was a protestant (Presbyterian, Synodal). But recently I converted to Catholic. By the way, the baptism in my previous church is recognized by catholic church so as I do not need to be baptized again when I converted to catholic.
DF: Thank you, David, for taking time out for this interview.
If you have any questions you'd like to ask David, please leave them in the comments section. Furthermore, if you would like to know how to help the Ubuntu CE project, you can leave a comment about that as well.
Review: Grammatrain
Grammatrain
$4.99 (Limited Edition)
I like giving a "bottom line" before I get too far into most of my reviews, so let me just say that this album rocks! You can read more about it below to decide if you want to buy it or not, but just know here and now that this album is awesome!
I first found Grammatrain in 1998 while at C-School in Dahlgren Virginia. I had purchased a compilation CD of Christian music and Jonah, as well as Rocketship, blew me away. Since then, I have been a fan of the group! They are a Seattle flavor, so hopefully that will give you an idea of the type of music they play.
Pain, from the album Flying, is one of my absolute favorite songs of all time. Here’s a sampling of why:
Pieces of my life lay scattered on the floor,
I stare at them till I can take no more.
I do not deserve to be set free
Forgiveness is what I desperately need.
If it wasn’t for the perfect blood was shed,
Would I not be dead inside but I live now instead!
Then there was the Accident Experiment (fronted by Grammatrain’s Pete Stewart), which apparently alienated a lot of Christian followers. Since I didn’t know about this group or the music it produced, I was not alienated. However, this does bring up a problem…the new songs aren’t as “Christian” as the old ones. It turns out that Pet Stewart doesn’t consider himself a Christian anymore.
I bought the limited edition Kneeling Between Shields as it is the released version. Sadly, it does not have any overt Christian themes. I’ll be honest about that. I believe the band has now become one of “those” bands that produces covert metaphors. Here are some lyrics from the song Damaged off of KBS:
I can see that I’m finally free
From the sickness in me
When I damaged myself for you
No longer the same
As the thing I became
When I damaged myself for you
Can I see some metaphors in that? Yep! As someone who works with the Drug and Alcohol Prevention team on the ship, I see addicts ruin their lives all of the time, and a recovering addict would sing this. And having recovered from a lot of sin in my life, I also want to scream this. This is the motto for our generation of sinners saved by Grace. I want to scream this at Satan (and have)!
But it doesn’t say that Christ rescued him. What does that mean? What did Pete and the guys want to say in this song? I don’t know to be honest. Hopefully the band will clarify through interviews in the future as the remainder of the album is completed.
Until we find out the rest of the story, so to speak, we’ll be left wondering exactly what Pete Stewart means by not calling himself a Christian anymore. If he means he doesn’t believe in Christ, then this is a great secular album, but maybe not one that you'll want to associate with. If he means he doesn’t want to associate with some of the more overt communities of Christianity, but still considers himself a believer, then this is a powerful album about recovery and facing your enemy.
I look forward to finding out. Until then, I’m going to enjoy the album. You can get the limited edition by going to the the band's website.
You can buy Flying here:
Making Fun of the Bride
I subscribe to a number of blogs that deal with church strategy. I love most of them. A couple of the blogs I subscribe to talk about revolutionizing the church, which is a very interesting topic for me. Often times, that means changing the church. It is, after all, hard to stay the same and be revolutionary at the same time. Without getting too in depth on that note, I just want to say that I have recently become a little judgmental about some churches.
A lot of us think that mega-churches are downright evil. If you're one of those people, then I'm sure you have your reasons. Then there are people who think that small country churches are inbred and out of touch. Some people think that some denominations are on their way to hell while others think that some of the newer non-denominational churches are also headed that way. The fact is, there is plenty of judgment to go around.
And it is all making fun of the bride. Yes, the bride of Christ. Now, I know I have to be careful with this because there are churches that need this sort of confrontation. But that's the point. If I have a wayward believer on my ship, it is my duty to confront him. I don't see how this is different on a larger scale. However, I also think it is inappropriate to simply judge my brother or cast him off. The Bible tells me to restore him "gently."
No one walks up to the bride and tells her that she could use a treadmill or that she should shut up or that she should change her philosophy. It's just not an acceptable thing to do, and I hope it never becomes such. So while all churches probably need some help, there are ways to do it without judging, or at least I hope there are. Do you have ideas? How can we correct problems in the church without making fun of the bride?
Mentoring: When You're not Needed Anymore
I have a piece of advice for Mentors: When you're not needed anymore, then get out of the way! I've learned this from some brilliant men in my life. In particular, there was a senior chief back on my first ship, between 1998-2000 who really guided me along. Jojo Vicencio was the primary influence in my life for a long time and is still a good friend.
Yet Jojo knew when he had fulfilled his purpose in my life, and he gracefully bowed out and we entered more of a general (not that it's boring or mundane) friendship at that point. I am grateful for that time period. I needed an experienced sailor, especially one who was a believer, to point me in the direction I needed to go. But the great thing about Jojo is that he understood God's role for him.
Over the last few weeks, some of the guys I've been mentoring on our deployment have needed me less. I've seen the writing on the wall. The time is coming when they won't need me at all.
For example, a young man I have been mentoring, both as a sailor and as a believer, started this deployment back in January with a lot of questions. He wasn't sure what he wanted to do with his career, he needed direction some outside issues, and he wanted some spiritual direction as well. I was so happy to give as much help as I could, although I admit that he needed help from our chaplain and I'm sure others as well. This young man is now a seminary student (currently via distance learning) and is applying to become a chaplain in the US Navy. Bottom line: I performed God's role for me in his life, by advising him regarding seminary and chaplaincy.
And now he's moving on...he needs me less and less each week. In fact, now that he and I are in our respective seminary classes, I would suggest that he doesn't need me at all.
There is a slight tinge of sadness there, and I don't think it's all pride. You see, it's the end of one road for me as a mentor. I did my part and it was successful. He will, like I do, need more mentors as his life progresses, but I believe my part is over.
As a mentor, I can look with satisfaction over his life...a life I helped to guide. I'm grateful for the opportunity, grateful for his acknowledgment of my wisdom in the areas in which he needed, and grateful that it worked out for both of us. Someday, he may need me again, but I doubt it. This is the way it works for mentoring.
If you're a mentor, please understand that there will probably come a time when your protege won't need you, at least not as much as he used to. This is perfectly fine and actually shows that your efforts were a success. Enjoy it! And then start looking for someone else to help!
Yet Jojo knew when he had fulfilled his purpose in my life, and he gracefully bowed out and we entered more of a general (not that it's boring or mundane) friendship at that point. I am grateful for that time period. I needed an experienced sailor, especially one who was a believer, to point me in the direction I needed to go. But the great thing about Jojo is that he understood God's role for him.
Over the last few weeks, some of the guys I've been mentoring on our deployment have needed me less. I've seen the writing on the wall. The time is coming when they won't need me at all.
For example, a young man I have been mentoring, both as a sailor and as a believer, started this deployment back in January with a lot of questions. He wasn't sure what he wanted to do with his career, he needed direction some outside issues, and he wanted some spiritual direction as well. I was so happy to give as much help as I could, although I admit that he needed help from our chaplain and I'm sure others as well. This young man is now a seminary student (currently via distance learning) and is applying to become a chaplain in the US Navy. Bottom line: I performed God's role for me in his life, by advising him regarding seminary and chaplaincy.
And now he's moving on...he needs me less and less each week. In fact, now that he and I are in our respective seminary classes, I would suggest that he doesn't need me at all.
There is a slight tinge of sadness there, and I don't think it's all pride. You see, it's the end of one road for me as a mentor. I did my part and it was successful. He will, like I do, need more mentors as his life progresses, but I believe my part is over.
As a mentor, I can look with satisfaction over his life...a life I helped to guide. I'm grateful for the opportunity, grateful for his acknowledgment of my wisdom in the areas in which he needed, and grateful that it worked out for both of us. Someday, he may need me again, but I doubt it. This is the way it works for mentoring.
If you're a mentor, please understand that there will probably come a time when your protege won't need you, at least not as much as he used to. This is perfectly fine and actually shows that your efforts were a success. Enjoy it! And then start looking for someone else to help!
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