As a longtime fan of Cincinnati Bearcat basketball, Wednesday evening couldn't have been much sweeter.
Right now, there are seven minutes left and UC is up 53-34 over Bob Huggins' West Virginia Mountaineers. Mick Cronin and his motley crew of juco players and freshmen walked into Morgantown and handed Huggie Bear a beat down. And I love it.
Not only have I never cared for WVU, I really can't stand Bob Huggins, who by the way graduated from WVU. But not so long ago, he was the much beloved coach at UC. Look, I'll give the guy credit. He built Cincinnati into one of the most consistent programs in the nation. He took it to two Elite Eight appearances and a Final Four. For that, I tip my cap. Thanks for making Cincy a winner.
But my problem with Huggins comes with the way he left the program. Yes, I know he got fired, but I hardly blame Nancy Z. for that. She had no choice. Huggins was picked up for DUI, had an absurdly low graduation rate, players were being arrested. Oh, the program was winning, but was on a collision course with a full-on NCAA-sanctioned probation.
In fact, Cincy did get placed on probation just as Huggins took a lucrative job at Kansas State. But in his final season, he recruited virtually no one. Andy Kennedy stepped in, did a fair job but his hands were tied in recruiting. Mick Cronin has since took over and after a horrible first year, they are 5-4 in the Big East with wins over Louisville, Syracuse, Villanova, Pitt and now West Virginia.
Huggins, of course, went to WVU and left Kansas State high and dry. He recruited Bill Walker and Michael Beasley then slipped out the back door just when the KSU administration wasn't looking. He left them in a pinch, too, forcing them to hire Frank Martin just to so Beasley wouldn't bolt.
Huggins is a total slime ball. He embodies everything that is wrong with collegiate athletics right now. Winning is top priority and it comes at any cost.
He left Cincinnati in a bad way and on Wednesday it was time for redemption. Not only did the Bearcats beat Huggins' team, they beat 'em bad and beat Huggins at his own game. Cincy out-toughed, out-hustled and out-defended. It was an ugly game, but that's the way Huggins' teams play. But it wasn't his team that won. And that made it a beautiful game.
WVU fans, never fear. You'll win as long as Huggie is there. Just be ready for some sketchy behavior and an NCAA investigation or three. Also, be aware that he'll leave. And he'll leave at the most opportune time for him and the most inopportune time for the program.
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
Prophet Power
The famous prophet tandem of Elijah and Elisha have popped up in my reading lately. These two guys--relatively speaking--don't get a lot of ink. Their exploits appear only in the Kings. Despite not appearing as much as say, Moses or David, they made an amazing impact as two of the more powerful men of God to every walk the earth.
Some of the miracles they performed are some of the greatest ever written down. Elisha seemed especially flamboyant when it came to miracles. Some even borderline on bizarre (sending bears to attack youths that called him a bald head). And even though I don't really completely understand every act of these two prophets, it's fun to read about the power of God working through men.
On a completely unrelated side note, ESPN's new NBA commercials are some of the best I've seen. Especially this one featuring my Celtics...
Some of the miracles they performed are some of the greatest ever written down. Elisha seemed especially flamboyant when it came to miracles. Some even borderline on bizarre (sending bears to attack youths that called him a bald head). And even though I don't really completely understand every act of these two prophets, it's fun to read about the power of God working through men.
On a completely unrelated side note, ESPN's new NBA commercials are some of the best I've seen. Especially this one featuring my Celtics...
Sunday, January 27, 2008
I'm back
I'm back...not at 100 percent, though. Let's say I'm playing a little hurt. I'm toughing it out for the good of the team and the fans. I'm a team player.
The reason I haven't blogged for so long is because I've been sick. I still am a bit and from what I understand it won't be going away anytime soon. Two visits to the doctor and a trip to the ER revealed that I did not have the flu or gastroenteritis as some had thought. Rather, it was the begins of an ulcer. Never in my wildest imagination would I have thought I had an ulcer. But it would explain why it had last a month rather than say...48 hours. But this week it hit me big time and took me pretty much out of commission for four or five days.
Part of it was being ill, the other part was not knowing what to do for it. Now that I have some medication (yay!) and understand that I have to keep eating to keep the pain away, I should be able to function.
The loser in all of this? My taste buds. The loves of my food life; hot wings, pizza, most Italian food, nearly all Mexican and gasp milk and all dairy products are off limits for the foreseeable future. Sheesh. I do know what I'm going to do without my milk.
I do know that I'm going to start changing up my routine. I'm thinking that it might help, as well. Get up earlier and maybe go for a walk in the morning. I'm not totally sure what I'm going to do differently, but definitely something. Change is good.
Hopefully I'll be back to blogging normally. Thanks to all those who prayed for me.
The reason I haven't blogged for so long is because I've been sick. I still am a bit and from what I understand it won't be going away anytime soon. Two visits to the doctor and a trip to the ER revealed that I did not have the flu or gastroenteritis as some had thought. Rather, it was the begins of an ulcer. Never in my wildest imagination would I have thought I had an ulcer. But it would explain why it had last a month rather than say...48 hours. But this week it hit me big time and took me pretty much out of commission for four or five days.
Part of it was being ill, the other part was not knowing what to do for it. Now that I have some medication (yay!) and understand that I have to keep eating to keep the pain away, I should be able to function.
The loser in all of this? My taste buds. The loves of my food life; hot wings, pizza, most Italian food, nearly all Mexican and gasp milk and all dairy products are off limits for the foreseeable future. Sheesh. I do know what I'm going to do without my milk.
I do know that I'm going to start changing up my routine. I'm thinking that it might help, as well. Get up earlier and maybe go for a walk in the morning. I'm not totally sure what I'm going to do differently, but definitely something. Change is good.
Hopefully I'll be back to blogging normally. Thanks to all those who prayed for me.
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
Have Mercy
The idea for this was generated--as many of my ideas are--listening to my iPod. More specifically, I was listening to a Caedmon's Call song titled "Be Merciful to Me."
It got me wondering about "mercy." Obviously, the title of the song sounds like it's something we are asking God for. What is mercy? How do we get it?
More...The first thing that I had to understand was that while mercy and grace are seemingly the same thing, they aren't. I heard a little story that explained the difference pretty well. It goes like this: Mercy is a judge finding you guilty and withholding any punishment. Grace is that same judge awarding you a million dollars after he finds you guilty. In other words, mercy is kind of like a pardon. Grace is an undeserved gift.
With that in mind, it would seem that mercy and grace to hand in hand but are hardly substitutes for each other. Mercy does not substitute for God's grace, but God's mercy is essential. As Titus 3:5 reads, we are saved according to His mercy.
I started thinking of times in the Bible that God exhibited mercy. I ended up finding a few times when God withheld mercy, as well. God showed no mercy during the global flood (except for sparing Noah and his family) nor did He to Sodom and Gomorrah before its destruction (save for Lot). Also, there is the promise of Jesus' return and the final judgment, from which only Christ's followers will receive mercy.
This shows me that unlike grace--which is for anyone at anytime--mercy is limited. Romans 9 tells us this, saying that God shows mercy to whom He wills. Hebrews 12 says that God deals with us as sons, disciplining, testing and rebuking. He can give His mercy and can pull it away just the same.
So why does God withhold mercy? There was one time in particular that stood out to me. It's when Jesus was preparing to die for us on the cross. The Bible tells us that it pleased God to bruise Him. Matthew 26:42 says that Jesus, praying in the garden, asked for "this cup to pass," not once, but three times. We also know that Jesus refused to save himself when given the opportunity. God did not save His own son from dying on the cross. Why? Because it was necessary. Let me explain a little more.
Think of the flood, the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah, the final judgment. What do all these have in common? All of those situations were lost causes. The world or city in these cases were so full of sin and evil that God had no choice but to destroy it. Yes, lost causes. There was no hope for salvation. But what about Jesus on the cross? Why was mercy withheld then? That's because Jesus--as it says in Hebrews 7--was the one perfect sacrifice forever by the Son who has been perfected forever. Jesus interceded on our behalf. Jesus wasn't the lost cause. WE WERE THE LOST CAUSES.
Without Jesus' sacrifice, we would be the ones feeling the full effect of God's withheld mercy. Jesus made it possible for us to be saved and receive this mercy. But remember, I mentioned that mercy, unlike grace, is not for everyone. How then do we receive it?
(I'm paraphrasing here)
Psalm 86 - Trust in Him and call on Him.
Exodus 20:6 - Those who love Him and keep His commandments will receive mercy.
Luke 18 - Showing humbleness before the Lord.
Luke 1:50 - Mercy is for those who fear Him.
2 Corin. 4 - Receive mercy and no longer walk in sin.
Hebrews 4:16 - Come boldly before the throne.
1 Timothy 1:13 - Obtain mercy by not ignoring sin.
That's just a few examples of how the Bible tells us to receive God's mercy. In all of those verses, it shows that mercy is given to those who call on Him.
I can't think of a better way to stay humble than to consider yourself a lost cause. And that is exactly what we would be without Jesus. As Anberlin sings..."Just all of us, the lost causes." I think this Third Day song, off the greatest album ever recorded, Conspiracy No. 5, sums up this little blog quite nicely.
"My will won't break, it barely bends
Same old sinner, the same old sin
On my knees to plead again
Confessions trial, where to begin?
Have mercy, on me a sinning man
Lord have mercy, on me a sinning man
If it's true that the wages of sin is death
Then I've earned quite enough to quit
The reward I deserve I'd surely get
Were it not for you to pay my debt"
Praise the Lord for that!
It got me wondering about "mercy." Obviously, the title of the song sounds like it's something we are asking God for. What is mercy? How do we get it?
More...The first thing that I had to understand was that while mercy and grace are seemingly the same thing, they aren't. I heard a little story that explained the difference pretty well. It goes like this: Mercy is a judge finding you guilty and withholding any punishment. Grace is that same judge awarding you a million dollars after he finds you guilty. In other words, mercy is kind of like a pardon. Grace is an undeserved gift.
With that in mind, it would seem that mercy and grace to hand in hand but are hardly substitutes for each other. Mercy does not substitute for God's grace, but God's mercy is essential. As Titus 3:5 reads, we are saved according to His mercy.
I started thinking of times in the Bible that God exhibited mercy. I ended up finding a few times when God withheld mercy, as well. God showed no mercy during the global flood (except for sparing Noah and his family) nor did He to Sodom and Gomorrah before its destruction (save for Lot). Also, there is the promise of Jesus' return and the final judgment, from which only Christ's followers will receive mercy.
This shows me that unlike grace--which is for anyone at anytime--mercy is limited. Romans 9 tells us this, saying that God shows mercy to whom He wills. Hebrews 12 says that God deals with us as sons, disciplining, testing and rebuking. He can give His mercy and can pull it away just the same.
So why does God withhold mercy? There was one time in particular that stood out to me. It's when Jesus was preparing to die for us on the cross. The Bible tells us that it pleased God to bruise Him. Matthew 26:42 says that Jesus, praying in the garden, asked for "this cup to pass," not once, but three times. We also know that Jesus refused to save himself when given the opportunity. God did not save His own son from dying on the cross. Why? Because it was necessary. Let me explain a little more.
Think of the flood, the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah, the final judgment. What do all these have in common? All of those situations were lost causes. The world or city in these cases were so full of sin and evil that God had no choice but to destroy it. Yes, lost causes. There was no hope for salvation. But what about Jesus on the cross? Why was mercy withheld then? That's because Jesus--as it says in Hebrews 7--was the one perfect sacrifice forever by the Son who has been perfected forever. Jesus interceded on our behalf. Jesus wasn't the lost cause. WE WERE THE LOST CAUSES.
Without Jesus' sacrifice, we would be the ones feeling the full effect of God's withheld mercy. Jesus made it possible for us to be saved and receive this mercy. But remember, I mentioned that mercy, unlike grace, is not for everyone. How then do we receive it?
(I'm paraphrasing here)
Psalm 86 - Trust in Him and call on Him.
Exodus 20:6 - Those who love Him and keep His commandments will receive mercy.
Luke 18 - Showing humbleness before the Lord.
Luke 1:50 - Mercy is for those who fear Him.
2 Corin. 4 - Receive mercy and no longer walk in sin.
Hebrews 4:16 - Come boldly before the throne.
1 Timothy 1:13 - Obtain mercy by not ignoring sin.
That's just a few examples of how the Bible tells us to receive God's mercy. In all of those verses, it shows that mercy is given to those who call on Him.
I can't think of a better way to stay humble than to consider yourself a lost cause. And that is exactly what we would be without Jesus. As Anberlin sings..."Just all of us, the lost causes." I think this Third Day song, off the greatest album ever recorded, Conspiracy No. 5, sums up this little blog quite nicely.
"My will won't break, it barely bends
Same old sinner, the same old sin
On my knees to plead again
Confessions trial, where to begin?
Have mercy, on me a sinning man
Lord have mercy, on me a sinning man
If it's true that the wages of sin is death
Then I've earned quite enough to quit
The reward I deserve I'd surely get
Were it not for you to pay my debt"
Praise the Lord for that!
Monday, January 21, 2008
Keep the Doctor Away
Well, I'm giving in. I'm going to the doctor tomorrow. I hate going to the doctor. I hate hospitals. Quite odd considering I'm marrying a girl that works in a hospital.
Growing up, I had the same doctor for the first 20 years of my life. Now, I have to go find a new doctor. So I checked out my insurance provider and there was a pretty long list. Who to pick? Why pick him...or her? I basically rolled the dice on this one and hopefully he'll know what he's doing.
Usually I like to think professionals are pretty smart. Doctors, lawyers, policeman, people we rely on for our protection. I like to think that...but then there are always those horror stories about someone going to the hospital for a runny nose and get their leg amputated.
Now, do I think I'll walk out of the doctor's office with one less limb? No. But that doesn't make me any less anxious. If I had my druthers, I'd never go to the doctor's office. But I guess it's something I have to do.
But just in case I do come out with one less limb tomorrow, starting thinking up a cool new nickname for me. And Stumpy won't do.
Growing up, I had the same doctor for the first 20 years of my life. Now, I have to go find a new doctor. So I checked out my insurance provider and there was a pretty long list. Who to pick? Why pick him...or her? I basically rolled the dice on this one and hopefully he'll know what he's doing.
Usually I like to think professionals are pretty smart. Doctors, lawyers, policeman, people we rely on for our protection. I like to think that...but then there are always those horror stories about someone going to the hospital for a runny nose and get their leg amputated.
Now, do I think I'll walk out of the doctor's office with one less limb? No. But that doesn't make me any less anxious. If I had my druthers, I'd never go to the doctor's office. But I guess it's something I have to do.
But just in case I do come out with one less limb tomorrow, starting thinking up a cool new nickname for me. And Stumpy won't do.
Friday, January 18, 2008
Ew
I've had a big blog centered around "mercy" planned, but I've been under the weather the last couple of evenings and watched TV instead. My brain wouldn't have functioned enough to write it correctly and properly. Stayed tuned.
By the way, I got a three month gift certificate to Netflix from Trista's mom and I've been taking full advantage, watching some newer releases (Bourne Ultimatum, Rescue Dawn and Little Miss Sunshine) and some not so new (The Day of the Jackal and Blade Runner). So far, my picks have turned out pretty good.
The Day of the Jackal and Blade Runner are both cinema classics but were released before I was born, thus never really getting the chance to watch and fully appreciate the films. But now that I've seen them, I totally agree that they are indeed cinema classics and highly recommend them to any one that hasn't seen them.
By the way, I got a three month gift certificate to Netflix from Trista's mom and I've been taking full advantage, watching some newer releases (Bourne Ultimatum, Rescue Dawn and Little Miss Sunshine) and some not so new (The Day of the Jackal and Blade Runner). So far, my picks have turned out pretty good.
The Day of the Jackal and Blade Runner are both cinema classics but were released before I was born, thus never really getting the chance to watch and fully appreciate the films. But now that I've seen them, I totally agree that they are indeed cinema classics and highly recommend them to any one that hasn't seen them.
Thursday, January 17, 2008
The Life
The men's volleyball match was scheduled for 7 p.m. Nazareth's bus broke down (not sure where, but I'm thinking somewhere around Jerusalem...just kidding, it's Nazareth, N.Y.). The opposing team didn't get there until 8:30. The match went five games, including a 40-38 score in the third and a 36-34 score in the fourth.
Then I had to write about a basketball game in which Mercyhurst lost by 20 and shot 31 percent from the field.
I didn't get home until 11:15ish. That's the life of and SID.
That happens a lot. But there are some perks to the job. It's been a slow week and nothing much is going on tomorrow, so Jason said he might go home early. I made him a deal. He goes home early, I'll go in late. I'd much rather sleep in than have an afternoon of doing nothing any day.
Ahh...sometimes I wonder...but I love sports information.
Then I had to write about a basketball game in which Mercyhurst lost by 20 and shot 31 percent from the field.
I didn't get home until 11:15ish. That's the life of and SID.
That happens a lot. But there are some perks to the job. It's been a slow week and nothing much is going on tomorrow, so Jason said he might go home early. I made him a deal. He goes home early, I'll go in late. I'd much rather sleep in than have an afternoon of doing nothing any day.
Ahh...sometimes I wonder...but I love sports information.
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
Tommy Boy
Tom Cruise recently appeared in a video on the Internet explaining the powers of Scientology. Here's an article from yahoo.com that describes the video.
Here's the video itself.
After reading the article, one thing really jumped out at me (and you all know I am a Christian). It's the statement in which Cruise says "It's a privilege to call yourself a Scientologist and it's something that you have to earn."
That pretty much sums it up. Man made religions make you work to earn a certain level or certain ideal. It's part of the process in making you have self worth.
But God tells us otherwise. We can't earn anything. We don't deserve anything. It's only through God's grace that we are saved. Amen.
Here's the video itself.
After reading the article, one thing really jumped out at me (and you all know I am a Christian). It's the statement in which Cruise says "It's a privilege to call yourself a Scientologist and it's something that you have to earn."
That pretty much sums it up. Man made religions make you work to earn a certain level or certain ideal. It's part of the process in making you have self worth.
But God tells us otherwise. We can't earn anything. We don't deserve anything. It's only through God's grace that we are saved. Amen.
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
Thoughts on the Founders
I just finished a book titled What Would the Founders Do?by Richard Brookhiser. I picked it up for sale at a Borders a while ago and just chipped away a few pages at a time. Brookhiser is an educated fellow when it comes to the founding fathers of the United States and he has written many other books about guys like George Washington, Alexander Hamilton and Gouverneur Morris.
Basically, he takes modern day issues; drugs, gun control, religion, war, taxes and so on and explains how the founding fathers, with their principles, knowledge and society would have thought and acted.
I've always held these men in high regard. After all, they laid the foundation for this nation. They were incredibly intelligent and forward thinking. They saw America as an example to the world. Going through school, unless you are a history major, chances are all you ever learn about Jefferson, Franklin and the likes is the Revolution, the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. But this book gave some insight into the politics, the feuds and honest to goodness beliefs of these guys.
While I often think of this generation as a group of gentlemen, I found that many were quite weaselly and as unsavory as today's politicians. Many had extramarital affairs, owned slaves and thought nothing of it, killed colleagues in duels. They often tried to destroy each others careers. Yes, politics hasn't changed much in over 200 years.
This was a group that said all men are created equal, so it would reason that any one could make as much an impact on history if they were willing to work and study as hard as the founders. Certainly, there are very intelligent men working in our government today, as well. There are differences in many areas between today's politicians and the founders, but the biggest is intent.
Watching all the to-do about the presidential primaries has worn on me, and we are still nearly a year away from the election. Every one seems so self serving. And that's the biggest difference. Our founders, while not perfect, were building a nation not for themselves (as they were getting on in years), but they were building it for a future. Even the most ardent of non-believers (Thomas Paine) suggested that America was in God's plans. John Adams even told a young politician that he saw no reason why any other generation couldn't be better than the fathers.
George Washington had no intention of being all-powerful and remembered in the history books. Remember, he turned down the chance to be king and bowed out of the presidency after two terms even though there was no law at the time saying he couldn't continue. It wasn't about the self, it was about a greater ideal that the founders thought every one deserved: liberty.
Do you think Hilary, Barack and the rest are after the same thing?
Basically, he takes modern day issues; drugs, gun control, religion, war, taxes and so on and explains how the founding fathers, with their principles, knowledge and society would have thought and acted.
I've always held these men in high regard. After all, they laid the foundation for this nation. They were incredibly intelligent and forward thinking. They saw America as an example to the world. Going through school, unless you are a history major, chances are all you ever learn about Jefferson, Franklin and the likes is the Revolution, the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. But this book gave some insight into the politics, the feuds and honest to goodness beliefs of these guys.
While I often think of this generation as a group of gentlemen, I found that many were quite weaselly and as unsavory as today's politicians. Many had extramarital affairs, owned slaves and thought nothing of it, killed colleagues in duels. They often tried to destroy each others careers. Yes, politics hasn't changed much in over 200 years.
This was a group that said all men are created equal, so it would reason that any one could make as much an impact on history if they were willing to work and study as hard as the founders. Certainly, there are very intelligent men working in our government today, as well. There are differences in many areas between today's politicians and the founders, but the biggest is intent.
Watching all the to-do about the presidential primaries has worn on me, and we are still nearly a year away from the election. Every one seems so self serving. And that's the biggest difference. Our founders, while not perfect, were building a nation not for themselves (as they were getting on in years), but they were building it for a future. Even the most ardent of non-believers (Thomas Paine) suggested that America was in God's plans. John Adams even told a young politician that he saw no reason why any other generation couldn't be better than the fathers.
George Washington had no intention of being all-powerful and remembered in the history books. Remember, he turned down the chance to be king and bowed out of the presidency after two terms even though there was no law at the time saying he couldn't continue. It wasn't about the self, it was about a greater ideal that the founders thought every one deserved: liberty.
Do you think Hilary, Barack and the rest are after the same thing?
Monday, January 14, 2008
Refreshing
The Little Animal apparently has a soft side.
James Laurinaitis, the middle linebacker that has struck fear into the collective heart of offenses the NCAA over, has decided to return to Ohio State for his final season! His reasoning? He was having too much fun.
Here's some of his quotes from the story in the Cleveland Plain-Dealer:
"To be honest with you, there was a lot of praying and trying to trust the Lord and there were certain signs," Laurinaitis said. "Talking to my mom this weekend, whenever I talked to her about coming back next year with the Buckeyes, I was more excited than anything about the NFL. I'm having too much fun at Ohio State...Money can't give you this experience, especially your senior season with the way this season could go," Laurinaitis said. "I'm excited about my choice to come back....
I'm hoping they're happy," Laurinaitis said. "I hope Buckeye Nation knows I love them and they're a big reason I'm coming back, because of their love and support and how proud I am to represent them."
Someone having too much fun to turn down top-10 money? Seems like it would be impossible to have that much fun. But I've read recently that James is a Christian and his dad, a former professional wrestler asked him what would happen if he got hurt. James simply replied, "God has gotten me this far, I trust he'll protect me. And if I get hurt, it was meant to be."
James shows a lot of maturity. He's a college junior that is risking millions upon millions to relish in the moment and enjoy his time with his friends for once last go around. I admire that mentality and I admire his trust in God. I pray that he is rewarded.
Whether James ends up being a superstar on the NFL level or goes a different route, I'm sure he'll be happy with the decision he made. And I know a couple million Buckeye fans are pretty happy with the decision, too.
James Laurinaitis, the middle linebacker that has struck fear into the collective heart of offenses the NCAA over, has decided to return to Ohio State for his final season! His reasoning? He was having too much fun.
Here's some of his quotes from the story in the Cleveland Plain-Dealer:
"To be honest with you, there was a lot of praying and trying to trust the Lord and there were certain signs," Laurinaitis said. "Talking to my mom this weekend, whenever I talked to her about coming back next year with the Buckeyes, I was more excited than anything about the NFL. I'm having too much fun at Ohio State...Money can't give you this experience, especially your senior season with the way this season could go," Laurinaitis said. "I'm excited about my choice to come back....
I'm hoping they're happy," Laurinaitis said. "I hope Buckeye Nation knows I love them and they're a big reason I'm coming back, because of their love and support and how proud I am to represent them."
Someone having too much fun to turn down top-10 money? Seems like it would be impossible to have that much fun. But I've read recently that James is a Christian and his dad, a former professional wrestler asked him what would happen if he got hurt. James simply replied, "God has gotten me this far, I trust he'll protect me. And if I get hurt, it was meant to be."
James shows a lot of maturity. He's a college junior that is risking millions upon millions to relish in the moment and enjoy his time with his friends for once last go around. I admire that mentality and I admire his trust in God. I pray that he is rewarded.
Whether James ends up being a superstar on the NFL level or goes a different route, I'm sure he'll be happy with the decision he made. And I know a couple million Buckeye fans are pretty happy with the decision, too.
Sunday, January 13, 2008
Stirrings in Cincinnati
There have been a lot of happenings in Cincinnati sports the last few days and I'd like to put my two cents in on it. But before I mention that, I'd like to give a plug to this web site - http://www.rzim.org. It's the site of Ravi Zacharias. He's a Christian apologist and excellent teacher. He is a lot like C.S. Lewis and uses logic to explain Christianity. If you are an Ipod person, you can also subscribe to his free weekly podcast.
OK, back to the world of Cincinnati sports. First, there was the Reds hiring Walt Jocketty. From an organizational stand point you could make an argument that Wayne Krivsky will be looking over his shoulder and worried about Walt and Bob Castellini stepping on his toes. But I heard in an interview that Walt said he didn't want to be a GM again. The bottom line is that Walt and Bob are good friends and Walt is a really smart baseball guy. He discovered Chris Carpenter and built the Cardinals into a perennial baseball team. Walt will not be making decisions but he will give Wayne and Bob some valuable insight on chasing free agents, making trades and signing contracts. I'm really happy about this, and it's more proof that Castellini means business in getting the Reds back to the playoffs.
With that said, I don't think the Reds are finished this offseason, but it might not be until spring training that they make a move. They feel pretty set in terms of a lineup but I would think something has to happen in outfield. Dunn and Griffey are entrenched and center field is up for grabs. After last year, it's pretty evident that Ryan Freel is not an every day player, especially in center. Chris Dickerson is hardly a viable option (career minor league batting average of .255 and he struck out 131 times in AAA last year). That leaves Norris Hopper or Jay Bruce as your starter in center and if you go with Bruce, who is your leadoff hitter? Look, I love the potential of Bruce being a Matt Holliday-type player but he's only 20. Griffey's contract is running out. Don't rush Bruce, let Norris start in center and let Bruce take Griffey's spot next year.
As for the rotation, I'm not comfortable with Harang, Arroyo, Belisle, Bailey and Volquez. Belisle is OK is a fifth starter but nothing more. Arroyo should be a No. 2 and Bailey has a way to go. Volquez is a question mark. The deal for Erik Bedard is not going to get done and there is no way you can rely on Bailey, Cueto or Matt Maloney to be solid from the start. The best free agent available is former Red Brett Tomko. He's a nice fit in that three spot.
There's been some rumbling in the jungle lately, as well in for the form of Chad Johnson. Chad is clearly not the problem with the Bengals. He's the most consistent and reliable performer on the team. The problem with the Bengals is and has been a lack of leadership at the top. When your franchise quarterback says that the coaches in place cannot get the job done, it's a problem. I'm not sure that Marvin has "lost the team," but a house cleaning is definitely in order. I would never suggest that Chad be traded. He's the best thing to happen to the city since the Ickey Shuffle. But trading T.J. is more reasonable. No. 2 wide receivers aren't hard to find and it's Chad that has made T.J. a pro bowl receiver. You put anyone next to Chad and they might be a pro bowl receiver. T.J. has admitted his selfishness and he has always believed he's the top dog on the team. Moving him and also cutting an obviously slowed Rudi Johnson wouldn't be out of the question in my mind. On the defensive side, the ultimate under achiever in Justin Smith is clearly out the door, I'd be shocked if they resigned Madieu Williams (although that would be a monumental mistake) and Deltha O'Neal wants out...so let him go. Dexter Jackson, John Thorton and Bryan Robinson will also likely be gone. It's a shake up the organization needs.
Also, don't be surprised if another assistant -- mostly likely QB coach Ken Zampese or line coach Paul Alexander -- take jobs elsewhere and aren't begged to stay. I would love Zampese as the offensive coordinator but he's been up for other jobs the last couple years and turned them down. The offseason in Cincinnati should make for some entertainment.
By the way, with the No. 9 pick in the 2008 NFL Draft, the Cincinnati Bengals select...Vernon Gholston, defensive lineman, THE Ohio State University.
OK, back to the world of Cincinnati sports. First, there was the Reds hiring Walt Jocketty. From an organizational stand point you could make an argument that Wayne Krivsky will be looking over his shoulder and worried about Walt and Bob Castellini stepping on his toes. But I heard in an interview that Walt said he didn't want to be a GM again. The bottom line is that Walt and Bob are good friends and Walt is a really smart baseball guy. He discovered Chris Carpenter and built the Cardinals into a perennial baseball team. Walt will not be making decisions but he will give Wayne and Bob some valuable insight on chasing free agents, making trades and signing contracts. I'm really happy about this, and it's more proof that Castellini means business in getting the Reds back to the playoffs.
With that said, I don't think the Reds are finished this offseason, but it might not be until spring training that they make a move. They feel pretty set in terms of a lineup but I would think something has to happen in outfield. Dunn and Griffey are entrenched and center field is up for grabs. After last year, it's pretty evident that Ryan Freel is not an every day player, especially in center. Chris Dickerson is hardly a viable option (career minor league batting average of .255 and he struck out 131 times in AAA last year). That leaves Norris Hopper or Jay Bruce as your starter in center and if you go with Bruce, who is your leadoff hitter? Look, I love the potential of Bruce being a Matt Holliday-type player but he's only 20. Griffey's contract is running out. Don't rush Bruce, let Norris start in center and let Bruce take Griffey's spot next year.
As for the rotation, I'm not comfortable with Harang, Arroyo, Belisle, Bailey and Volquez. Belisle is OK is a fifth starter but nothing more. Arroyo should be a No. 2 and Bailey has a way to go. Volquez is a question mark. The deal for Erik Bedard is not going to get done and there is no way you can rely on Bailey, Cueto or Matt Maloney to be solid from the start. The best free agent available is former Red Brett Tomko. He's a nice fit in that three spot.
There's been some rumbling in the jungle lately, as well in for the form of Chad Johnson. Chad is clearly not the problem with the Bengals. He's the most consistent and reliable performer on the team. The problem with the Bengals is and has been a lack of leadership at the top. When your franchise quarterback says that the coaches in place cannot get the job done, it's a problem. I'm not sure that Marvin has "lost the team," but a house cleaning is definitely in order. I would never suggest that Chad be traded. He's the best thing to happen to the city since the Ickey Shuffle. But trading T.J. is more reasonable. No. 2 wide receivers aren't hard to find and it's Chad that has made T.J. a pro bowl receiver. You put anyone next to Chad and they might be a pro bowl receiver. T.J. has admitted his selfishness and he has always believed he's the top dog on the team. Moving him and also cutting an obviously slowed Rudi Johnson wouldn't be out of the question in my mind. On the defensive side, the ultimate under achiever in Justin Smith is clearly out the door, I'd be shocked if they resigned Madieu Williams (although that would be a monumental mistake) and Deltha O'Neal wants out...so let him go. Dexter Jackson, John Thorton and Bryan Robinson will also likely be gone. It's a shake up the organization needs.
Also, don't be surprised if another assistant -- mostly likely QB coach Ken Zampese or line coach Paul Alexander -- take jobs elsewhere and aren't begged to stay. I would love Zampese as the offensive coordinator but he's been up for other jobs the last couple years and turned them down. The offseason in Cincinnati should make for some entertainment.
By the way, with the No. 9 pick in the 2008 NFL Draft, the Cincinnati Bengals select...Vernon Gholston, defensive lineman, THE Ohio State University.
Wednesday, January 9, 2008
Average Joe Not So Average After All
Gideon has always been one of my favorite Bible personalities (His story can be found in the Old Testament book of Judges). First of all, he has a cool name. Any one named Gideon has got to be one tough fella. In fact, back when I was really into wrestling, my created internet wrestler was named Gideon.
But having a cool name isn't the only reason I like Gideon. One reason is because he's just a regular guy or as he says "the least" in his father's house. His story is just one of many that God took a pretty average Joe and turned him into a spiritual warrior.
Another reason I enjoy reading Gideon's story is that he acted like I usually do. God's angel called him a mighty man of valor, and even after he had seen the angel and torn down the idols of Baal, he needed more reassurance before leading Israel into battle. I think sometimes modern day Christians get intimidated by the great men of the Bible that could do miracles and defeat nations with God's guidance. But here, I see a guy that was so unsure and so vulnerable that he asked God for not just one sign, but two. And God even gave Gideon more comfort in the form of an overheard dream that said he would destroy all of Midian.
Nowadays, we would say that Gideon had self-esteem issues. He certainly didn't believe he had what it took to lead Israel on his own. Gideon shows that there's nothing wrong with asking God for assurance. There's a fine line between reaffirming and doubting, though. Doubting is something Gideon never did. In fact, after he witnessed the signs he worshiped or he acted immediately and acted with confidence.
Yes, Gideon is a great example of "just some dude" doing mighty deeds. But he also provides us with examples of how we should listen, take action, trust God, and worship God because he "does great things, and unsearchable, marvelous things without number (Job 5:9)."
But having a cool name isn't the only reason I like Gideon. One reason is because he's just a regular guy or as he says "the least" in his father's house. His story is just one of many that God took a pretty average Joe and turned him into a spiritual warrior.
Another reason I enjoy reading Gideon's story is that he acted like I usually do. God's angel called him a mighty man of valor, and even after he had seen the angel and torn down the idols of Baal, he needed more reassurance before leading Israel into battle. I think sometimes modern day Christians get intimidated by the great men of the Bible that could do miracles and defeat nations with God's guidance. But here, I see a guy that was so unsure and so vulnerable that he asked God for not just one sign, but two. And God even gave Gideon more comfort in the form of an overheard dream that said he would destroy all of Midian.
Nowadays, we would say that Gideon had self-esteem issues. He certainly didn't believe he had what it took to lead Israel on his own. Gideon shows that there's nothing wrong with asking God for assurance. There's a fine line between reaffirming and doubting, though. Doubting is something Gideon never did. In fact, after he witnessed the signs he worshiped or he acted immediately and acted with confidence.
Yes, Gideon is a great example of "just some dude" doing mighty deeds. But he also provides us with examples of how we should listen, take action, trust God, and worship God because he "does great things, and unsearchable, marvelous things without number (Job 5:9)."
Monday, January 7, 2008
There's always next year.
Well, two years in a row we finished the runner-up. I'm not going to apologize for Ohio State. No one else in the country went 11-1 (except for Kansas). They deserved to be there both years. And all the issues that folks said Ohio State couldn't handle, they did. Simply, Ohio State was its own worst enemy.
Look, I'm around college athletes every day and I'm not going to throw Todd Boeckman under the bus. It's a tough job and not many people can get their team to the national championship game. It's just unfortunate that he didn't play well. It was something I noticed the last three games, actually.
I can't say this with certainty, but it sure looked to me that Boeckman got gun shy. Remember when I evaluated the best teams of the Tressel era? It was pre-Illinois game and I said I liked Boeckman because he wasn't afraid to make a mistake. But against Michigan and in this game, he held on to the ball way too long, wouldn't take chances down field and didn't even throw the ball away. He really had a deer-in-the-headlights look.
Certainly, Todd's effort on the season was admirable and solid. He was an All-Big Ten performer. With that said, I'm not sure he's the guy that can get Ohio State a championship. I just don't know if he has that mentality. But he'll have another shot. He's a senior next year. I'm sure he'll learn from this. The only question is whether he'll have a chance next year. Antonio Henton may be breathing down his neck.
I've been saying all year that this team wasn't a national championship team. I didn't think they were good enough to make it there. I thought they would lose at least three games. I thought 9-4 would have been a pretty good year. That just goes to show how talented Ohio State is and how good a coach Tressel is. Yeah, I said Tressel is a good coach. I've also said all year that next year would be our year. Third times a charm?
But look, Boeckman didn't play his best. Stupid penalties and turnovers are a mark of a young team. This was a young team.
My only hope is that everyone returns. Most certainly they won't. But here's my feelings on the three defensive players likely to go.
Malcolm Jenkins - 80 percent chance of leaving. He's a first round pick without a doubt and SHOULD go. I've loved his attitude and willingness to bring the lumber, but I really think Chekwa can step in for him. He's not irreplaceable.
James Laurinaitis - 50/50 on leaving. This kid is a top 10 pick. Middle linebackers with his skill and leadership don't come along every day. He's my favorite Ohio State player in a while and he's the unquestioned leader on the team. I've heard reports that he was going to go. My gut says he will, but my heart wants him to come back. With him in the middle of this defense next year, we'll be back in the title game and I can guarantee that. The only way I want him to leave is if he ends up with the Cincinnati Bengals.
Vernon Gholston - 90 percent chance of leaving. My guess is that he's a top 10 pick based on this season alone. Really good 4-3 edge rushers are hard to find and he's dominant. He'll go to the combine and blow the roof off with his tests. The guy was virtually unblockable this year and will be an impact player in the NFL. Still, let's remember that Lawrence Wilson sat out of the year with a broken leg and a lot of people think Wilson was just as good or maybe better than Vernon. Flip him to the Leo spot and plug Cameron Heyward in on the strong side and the defense won't miss a beat. But that's not saying I don't want him to stay.
It's never too early to look forward to next year. Here's a look at the starting lineup.
WR - Brian Robiskie
LT - Alex Boone
LG - Steve Rehring
C - Jim Cordle
RG - Ben Person
RT - Bryant Browning
TE - Rory Nicol
WR - Brian Hartline
QB - Todd Boeckman
FB - ?
RB - Chris Wells
OSU is losing three seniors at fullback and Kirk Barton at right tackle. Everyone else, plus their backups are returning.
DE - Vernon Gholston/Lawrence Wilson
DT - Todd Denlinger
DT - Doug Worthington
DE - Cameron Heyward/Robert Rose
OLB - Marcus Freeman/Brian Rolle
MLB - James Laurinaitis/Austin Spitler
OLB - Ross Homan
CB - Malcolm Jenkins/Chimdi Chekwa
CB - Donald Washington
FS - Anderson Russell
SS - Kurt Coleman
Possibly 10 returning starters. Plus the return of Homan and Wilson from injury.
So, tough night. But things are already looking up. And if you have trouble coping with the win, just think of August and a Chris Wells stiff arm.
Look, I'm around college athletes every day and I'm not going to throw Todd Boeckman under the bus. It's a tough job and not many people can get their team to the national championship game. It's just unfortunate that he didn't play well. It was something I noticed the last three games, actually.
I can't say this with certainty, but it sure looked to me that Boeckman got gun shy. Remember when I evaluated the best teams of the Tressel era? It was pre-Illinois game and I said I liked Boeckman because he wasn't afraid to make a mistake. But against Michigan and in this game, he held on to the ball way too long, wouldn't take chances down field and didn't even throw the ball away. He really had a deer-in-the-headlights look.
Certainly, Todd's effort on the season was admirable and solid. He was an All-Big Ten performer. With that said, I'm not sure he's the guy that can get Ohio State a championship. I just don't know if he has that mentality. But he'll have another shot. He's a senior next year. I'm sure he'll learn from this. The only question is whether he'll have a chance next year. Antonio Henton may be breathing down his neck.
I've been saying all year that this team wasn't a national championship team. I didn't think they were good enough to make it there. I thought they would lose at least three games. I thought 9-4 would have been a pretty good year. That just goes to show how talented Ohio State is and how good a coach Tressel is. Yeah, I said Tressel is a good coach. I've also said all year that next year would be our year. Third times a charm?
But look, Boeckman didn't play his best. Stupid penalties and turnovers are a mark of a young team. This was a young team.
My only hope is that everyone returns. Most certainly they won't. But here's my feelings on the three defensive players likely to go.
Malcolm Jenkins - 80 percent chance of leaving. He's a first round pick without a doubt and SHOULD go. I've loved his attitude and willingness to bring the lumber, but I really think Chekwa can step in for him. He's not irreplaceable.
James Laurinaitis - 50/50 on leaving. This kid is a top 10 pick. Middle linebackers with his skill and leadership don't come along every day. He's my favorite Ohio State player in a while and he's the unquestioned leader on the team. I've heard reports that he was going to go. My gut says he will, but my heart wants him to come back. With him in the middle of this defense next year, we'll be back in the title game and I can guarantee that. The only way I want him to leave is if he ends up with the Cincinnati Bengals.
Vernon Gholston - 90 percent chance of leaving. My guess is that he's a top 10 pick based on this season alone. Really good 4-3 edge rushers are hard to find and he's dominant. He'll go to the combine and blow the roof off with his tests. The guy was virtually unblockable this year and will be an impact player in the NFL. Still, let's remember that Lawrence Wilson sat out of the year with a broken leg and a lot of people think Wilson was just as good or maybe better than Vernon. Flip him to the Leo spot and plug Cameron Heyward in on the strong side and the defense won't miss a beat. But that's not saying I don't want him to stay.
It's never too early to look forward to next year. Here's a look at the starting lineup.
WR - Brian Robiskie
LT - Alex Boone
LG - Steve Rehring
C - Jim Cordle
RG - Ben Person
RT - Bryant Browning
TE - Rory Nicol
WR - Brian Hartline
QB - Todd Boeckman
FB - ?
RB - Chris Wells
OSU is losing three seniors at fullback and Kirk Barton at right tackle. Everyone else, plus their backups are returning.
DE - Vernon Gholston/Lawrence Wilson
DT - Todd Denlinger
DT - Doug Worthington
DE - Cameron Heyward/Robert Rose
OLB - Marcus Freeman/Brian Rolle
MLB - James Laurinaitis/Austin Spitler
OLB - Ross Homan
CB - Malcolm Jenkins/Chimdi Chekwa
CB - Donald Washington
FS - Anderson Russell
SS - Kurt Coleman
Possibly 10 returning starters. Plus the return of Homan and Wilson from injury.
So, tough night. But things are already looking up. And if you have trouble coping with the win, just think of August and a Chris Wells stiff arm.
Sunday, January 6, 2008
Saturday, January 5, 2008
Well, I'm engaged but it hasn't even been a week yet! Nothing really has changed but I do feel a little different. The biggest change is beginning the process of planning. Trista and I feel we have a pretty good start on things already, but I know how it goes. Whether it's studying for a test, or working on a master's thesis or planning a wedding, you think you have time, then bam, times up.
I won't lie. The planning process is exciting. In my work of sports information, I've never been a great planner, but I'm an expert in game management. I can handle any and every problem you throw at me during the course of a sporting event. Trista, on the other hand, is excellent at setting goals and acheiving them. So maybe with us working together, things will go smoothly.
Obviously, I'm pretty knew to this, and I'm not about to think I'm above taking advice from any one. Any person that's been married or even been an integral part of a wedding has opinions on what does and doesn't work, when things need to be done and how things need to be done. If you have any advice for me, just leave a comment. I sure will appreciate it.
I won't lie. The planning process is exciting. In my work of sports information, I've never been a great planner, but I'm an expert in game management. I can handle any and every problem you throw at me during the course of a sporting event. Trista, on the other hand, is excellent at setting goals and acheiving them. So maybe with us working together, things will go smoothly.
Obviously, I'm pretty knew to this, and I'm not about to think I'm above taking advice from any one. Any person that's been married or even been an integral part of a wedding has opinions on what does and doesn't work, when things need to be done and how things need to be done. If you have any advice for me, just leave a comment. I sure will appreciate it.
Friday, January 4, 2008
Mixing It Up
Mixed messages. In my line of work (media relations), I get these a lot: especially this year. Say for instance one of our athletes gets arrested. When I first get the call, I'll hear one side of the story. Then more information will come my way and I'll have to reason out everything before releasing a statement (if I decide to release one at all). One side of the story may not be true, the other may be totally true. It really is frustrating.
I can even remember mixed messages, or mixed "signals" back when I was still in the dating field. I'd go talk to a girl, I'd think she liked me but my friend would tell me otherwise. It's confusing, but what I've learned is that when I hear two conflicting reports, I align myself with the side that is my convenient for me. After all, who wants trouble when its avoidable?
Well, I was perusing through 2 Chronicles last night and started reading the story of Ahab, who was the king of Israel during Jehoshaphat's reign in Judah. The two were allies and were debating to go to war against Ramoth Gilead. They brought in 400 prophets and all agreed that God would deliver the enemy into their hand. But Ahab knew of one other man, Micaiah, who was a prophet. But he wasn't Micaiah's biggest fan because the prophet was always telling him of bad that would happen to him. Naturally, no one wants to hear bad stuff. While Micaiah agreed that God would deliver the enemy, he warned Ahab that if he went to war, he would die.
Old Ahab didn't take full warning. He thought he could pull a little Tom Foolery on the Syrians by not dressing like a king. But he couldn't fool God, and Ahab, sure enough, died in battle.
This was a case of Ahab hearing two different messages and choosing what he wanted to hear. He loved that God would wipe out the enemy, but didn't want anything to do with the notion that he would die. It wasn't convenient and his pride would not allow him to stand on the sidelines while Jehosaphat led the way to victory.
I think Christians face this situation constantly, even daily. God warns us or points us in a direction or gives us an opportunity to do His work but there's a second conflicting message chiming in right after that about how it could be embarrassing or time consuming, whatever it may be. It's almost like the angel on one shoulder and the devil on the other. The problem is that our humanly selves, well, at least THIS human, is almost always following the advice that I want to hear like Ahab did.
There's a slew of folks in the Bible that faced the same situation. Remember when Peter had the vision about the unclean animals? God was telling him to forget all the law that he had grown up learning. Paul had to turn against a lifetime of learning and studying the old law to follow Jesus. It's tough to turn against the norm or step away from what is comfortable. It's also tough to follow advice that we think is no good for us. But I've said it before. When I'm faced with two choices, the one I really want to pick is probably wrong, but the one that God wants me to pick is definitely right. It's the old George Costanza method of "if every instinct you have is wrong, then the opposite would be right." Eventually, as I grow more mature in my faith, I'll start seeing the right decision more clearly. But as of right now, it's a constant struggle to make even the smallest steps in the right direction. Jesus never said that being a follower was going to be easy. It may be tough sledding sometimes, but it's always worth the extra effort.
Part of what got me thinking about this topic was also Adam leaving for two weeks to go to Costa Rica on a mission trip. Leaving the United States is tough, let alone leaving it to go to a poor and unconnected nation that doesn't even speak the English language. It's also tough when you consider the reason he's going there is to spread the gospel, which is exactly what God has called him to do.
I admire all missionaries. It's not an easy thing to take your own hard earned money --money that could be spent on movies or video games--and pay for your own trip to a strange country. These folks have to be hearing God's voice but also hearing the voice of the ultimate dissenter telling them it's not worthwhile or it's not a feasible trip. But thankfully, they make the right decision.
I ask that everyone keep Adam and the rest of his party in their prayers over the next few weeks.
I can even remember mixed messages, or mixed "signals" back when I was still in the dating field. I'd go talk to a girl, I'd think she liked me but my friend would tell me otherwise. It's confusing, but what I've learned is that when I hear two conflicting reports, I align myself with the side that is my convenient for me. After all, who wants trouble when its avoidable?
Well, I was perusing through 2 Chronicles last night and started reading the story of Ahab, who was the king of Israel during Jehoshaphat's reign in Judah. The two were allies and were debating to go to war against Ramoth Gilead. They brought in 400 prophets and all agreed that God would deliver the enemy into their hand. But Ahab knew of one other man, Micaiah, who was a prophet. But he wasn't Micaiah's biggest fan because the prophet was always telling him of bad that would happen to him. Naturally, no one wants to hear bad stuff. While Micaiah agreed that God would deliver the enemy, he warned Ahab that if he went to war, he would die.
Old Ahab didn't take full warning. He thought he could pull a little Tom Foolery on the Syrians by not dressing like a king. But he couldn't fool God, and Ahab, sure enough, died in battle.
This was a case of Ahab hearing two different messages and choosing what he wanted to hear. He loved that God would wipe out the enemy, but didn't want anything to do with the notion that he would die. It wasn't convenient and his pride would not allow him to stand on the sidelines while Jehosaphat led the way to victory.
I think Christians face this situation constantly, even daily. God warns us or points us in a direction or gives us an opportunity to do His work but there's a second conflicting message chiming in right after that about how it could be embarrassing or time consuming, whatever it may be. It's almost like the angel on one shoulder and the devil on the other. The problem is that our humanly selves, well, at least THIS human, is almost always following the advice that I want to hear like Ahab did.
There's a slew of folks in the Bible that faced the same situation. Remember when Peter had the vision about the unclean animals? God was telling him to forget all the law that he had grown up learning. Paul had to turn against a lifetime of learning and studying the old law to follow Jesus. It's tough to turn against the norm or step away from what is comfortable. It's also tough to follow advice that we think is no good for us. But I've said it before. When I'm faced with two choices, the one I really want to pick is probably wrong, but the one that God wants me to pick is definitely right. It's the old George Costanza method of "if every instinct you have is wrong, then the opposite would be right." Eventually, as I grow more mature in my faith, I'll start seeing the right decision more clearly. But as of right now, it's a constant struggle to make even the smallest steps in the right direction. Jesus never said that being a follower was going to be easy. It may be tough sledding sometimes, but it's always worth the extra effort.
Part of what got me thinking about this topic was also Adam leaving for two weeks to go to Costa Rica on a mission trip. Leaving the United States is tough, let alone leaving it to go to a poor and unconnected nation that doesn't even speak the English language. It's also tough when you consider the reason he's going there is to spread the gospel, which is exactly what God has called him to do.
I admire all missionaries. It's not an easy thing to take your own hard earned money --money that could be spent on movies or video games--and pay for your own trip to a strange country. These folks have to be hearing God's voice but also hearing the voice of the ultimate dissenter telling them it's not worthwhile or it's not a feasible trip. But thankfully, they make the right decision.
I ask that everyone keep Adam and the rest of his party in their prayers over the next few weeks.
Thursday, January 3, 2008
Product Plug
I'm not much of a salesman and never will be. I don't have that stick-to-it-tiveness that gets people to buy what I'm selling. "You don't want it? OK, no problem."
But I just have to give some rave reviews for a few things that I got for Christmas. Generally, these are more extravagant, not something you desperately need, but I gotta tell, once I got them, I was hooked and I can't see ever NOT having them.
My three new loves are XM Radio, Garmin GPS and Netflix.
XM Radio - While XM gave me a bit of a headache setting it up, it has been superb ever since and despite knowing virtually nothing about cars, I installed it myself. It's got about 170 channels, including all MLB games and PGA Tour events, which I'm very excited about. So far, I've only used it in my car, but some day I'll get the indoor setup, as well. But one great feature about XM is that I can listen to all the stations online. They even have extra stations on the net. I highly recommend channel 31, The Torch, which is a hard rock Christian station.
Garmin nuvi 200 - This little guy is a life saver. I just wish I would have had it a few months ago when I got lost in downtown New York (easily the most distressing 45 minutes of my life). Type in an address, search for a restaurant, it'll take you there, step by step and tell you how fast you are going, when you'll get there and can even lead you around detours and construction.
Netflix - My deal with Netflix is a little different than usual because it was an unlimited three month gift certificate, so I can get one movie at a time but as many as I can watch. For a small monthly fee -- less than renting a movie at Blockbuster -- you can have new movies and classic films delivered to your door. Netflix pays for the postage to ship it back, as well. Within three days of putting the movie in the mail, I got a new one. There's no need to pick them out each time, either. The web site has a queue to place films in order of preference and they'll send them to you in that order. Also, Netflix has a pretty nice selection of movies and TV shows on the site that you can watch on your computer at any time. I just watch four episodes from season three of Saved By the Bell.
All three...fantastic. I highly recommend.
But I just have to give some rave reviews for a few things that I got for Christmas. Generally, these are more extravagant, not something you desperately need, but I gotta tell, once I got them, I was hooked and I can't see ever NOT having them.
My three new loves are XM Radio, Garmin GPS and Netflix.
XM Radio - While XM gave me a bit of a headache setting it up, it has been superb ever since and despite knowing virtually nothing about cars, I installed it myself. It's got about 170 channels, including all MLB games and PGA Tour events, which I'm very excited about. So far, I've only used it in my car, but some day I'll get the indoor setup, as well. But one great feature about XM is that I can listen to all the stations online. They even have extra stations on the net. I highly recommend channel 31, The Torch, which is a hard rock Christian station.
Garmin nuvi 200 - This little guy is a life saver. I just wish I would have had it a few months ago when I got lost in downtown New York (easily the most distressing 45 minutes of my life). Type in an address, search for a restaurant, it'll take you there, step by step and tell you how fast you are going, when you'll get there and can even lead you around detours and construction.
Netflix - My deal with Netflix is a little different than usual because it was an unlimited three month gift certificate, so I can get one movie at a time but as many as I can watch. For a small monthly fee -- less than renting a movie at Blockbuster -- you can have new movies and classic films delivered to your door. Netflix pays for the postage to ship it back, as well. Within three days of putting the movie in the mail, I got a new one. There's no need to pick them out each time, either. The web site has a queue to place films in order of preference and they'll send them to you in that order. Also, Netflix has a pretty nice selection of movies and TV shows on the site that you can watch on your computer at any time. I just watch four episodes from season three of Saved By the Bell.
All three...fantastic. I highly recommend.
Wednesday, January 2, 2008
Speed kills...me
Speed. If I hear another football commentator say that word, I'm going to hurl.
It is officially the en vogue term in college football (only college and not the NFL, mind you). Speed is apparently the singular reason for victory and the lack of is the singular reason for defeat. Every one from Herbie to this dude on Fox is spouting off about SPEEEEEEED.
I was already sick of hearing about Ohio State's lack of speed, but when I heard the Fox commentators remarking about how Oklahoma couldn't handle WVU's speed, I reached my limit with all the talk. Sure, speed matters, but it isn't all that matters. Let's reason this out a little.
Using the thinking of commentators--that speed wins games--WVU is faster than Oklahoma but not faster than Pitt or South Florida. Pitt didn't make it to a bowl game and South Florida got shelled by Oregon. Oregon was faster than USC but didn't have as much speed as California (7-6), UCLA, Arizona, or Oregon State. Back to Oklahoma. The Sooners didn't have enough to match up with WVU but had MORE than enough to take Missouri to the woodshed. But while Mizzou was slow after the Big 12 championship game, the got amazingly fast in three weeks and beat down Arkansas, which GASP is a SEC team. And NO ONE is faster than a team from the SEC. Well, no one except Michigan, which beat Florida. But Michigan was so slow that it couldn't keep up with Division I-AA...excuse me, championship subdivision Appalachian State. Meechigan was also plodding compared to the Buckeyes. But the Buckeyes' speed was no match for the speed of Illinois, and despite racking up over 400 yards of offense, Illinois apparently had lead feet compared to USC...and that brings us full circle. Oh, I left out LSU. Well, LSU is obviously the slowest because they couldn't keep up with aforementioned Razorbacks and Kentucky, which couldn't handle the speed of Mississippi, which couldn't handle the speed of well, any one.
Whew. As you can see, if the only way you can analyze a game is by saying one team had more speed than the other, you just aren't very smart or analytical. It's pointless to compare one team to another based on SPEEEEEEED because it isn't just about SPEEEEEEEED. It's about so much more--so much more than you or I or any one knows. I'll leave it up to the coaching staffs and the players to analyze and understand wins and losses.
Speed matters, but not as much as "experts" want you to believe. Why do you think NFL scouts say time again that the 40 yard dash at the combine is way overblown, and that they'd take a "football player" over a speedster any day.
And with the speed talk comes all the pointless and talk of comparing conferences and dubbing one conference the greatest and of course, the speediest of them all. Really, there's no need. As we've seen from the bowls, some Big Ten teams looked good, others not so much. The SEC had some good ones, and a few bad ones. ACC, Big 12, Big East, all of them had some good performances and some stinkeroos. Just stop trying to compare because there is no clear way to do it. And please, stop mentioning speed.
On a side note, I just saw Jim Ross, famed WWE announcer, on the Oklahoma sideline. How the heck did he wrangle a sideline pass?
It is officially the en vogue term in college football (only college and not the NFL, mind you). Speed is apparently the singular reason for victory and the lack of is the singular reason for defeat. Every one from Herbie to this dude on Fox is spouting off about SPEEEEEEED.
I was already sick of hearing about Ohio State's lack of speed, but when I heard the Fox commentators remarking about how Oklahoma couldn't handle WVU's speed, I reached my limit with all the talk. Sure, speed matters, but it isn't all that matters. Let's reason this out a little.
Using the thinking of commentators--that speed wins games--WVU is faster than Oklahoma but not faster than Pitt or South Florida. Pitt didn't make it to a bowl game and South Florida got shelled by Oregon. Oregon was faster than USC but didn't have as much speed as California (7-6), UCLA, Arizona, or Oregon State. Back to Oklahoma. The Sooners didn't have enough to match up with WVU but had MORE than enough to take Missouri to the woodshed. But while Mizzou was slow after the Big 12 championship game, the got amazingly fast in three weeks and beat down Arkansas, which GASP is a SEC team. And NO ONE is faster than a team from the SEC. Well, no one except Michigan, which beat Florida. But Michigan was so slow that it couldn't keep up with Division I-AA...excuse me, championship subdivision Appalachian State. Meechigan was also plodding compared to the Buckeyes. But the Buckeyes' speed was no match for the speed of Illinois, and despite racking up over 400 yards of offense, Illinois apparently had lead feet compared to USC...and that brings us full circle. Oh, I left out LSU. Well, LSU is obviously the slowest because they couldn't keep up with aforementioned Razorbacks and Kentucky, which couldn't handle the speed of Mississippi, which couldn't handle the speed of well, any one.
Whew. As you can see, if the only way you can analyze a game is by saying one team had more speed than the other, you just aren't very smart or analytical. It's pointless to compare one team to another based on SPEEEEEEED because it isn't just about SPEEEEEEEED. It's about so much more--so much more than you or I or any one knows. I'll leave it up to the coaching staffs and the players to analyze and understand wins and losses.
Speed matters, but not as much as "experts" want you to believe. Why do you think NFL scouts say time again that the 40 yard dash at the combine is way overblown, and that they'd take a "football player" over a speedster any day.
And with the speed talk comes all the pointless and talk of comparing conferences and dubbing one conference the greatest and of course, the speediest of them all. Really, there's no need. As we've seen from the bowls, some Big Ten teams looked good, others not so much. The SEC had some good ones, and a few bad ones. ACC, Big 12, Big East, all of them had some good performances and some stinkeroos. Just stop trying to compare because there is no clear way to do it. And please, stop mentioning speed.
On a side note, I just saw Jim Ross, famed WWE announcer, on the Oklahoma sideline. How the heck did he wrangle a sideline pass?
Tuesday, January 1, 2008
Weekend to Remember
Wow, what a weekend. It all started on Friday and ended Tuesday morning. Ringing in a new year is always exciting but this one was a once-in-a-lifetime weekend, and one that range in emotions from despair to sheer joy. THAT's why I haven't been blogging. Without going into too much detail, there are a couple of points of interest I'd like to share.
God is working in my life everyday and on Friday He really smacked me upside the head. I'm a Christian. I believe that Jesus is the savior, died for my sins and rose on the third day for my salvation. I'm also a sinner. There's been one sin in particular that keeps creeping into my life. I would confess that sin, knowing God would forgive me but I kept getting something wrong. I wouldn't get rid of it. I'd keep doing it. I'd always hear God telling me I was screwing up, but I'd ignore it. In other words, I had my fingers in my ears.
Well, God finally got tired of whispering it to me and pulled my fingers out of my ears and yelled right at me. There was no mistaking the message. It's easy to keep heading back to the same sin when there is no accountability, only self will. It's no secret that we, humans, aren't very strong. It's been said that God speaks loudest in our sorrows or that we don't listen until something is taken away. Well, that almost happened to me and it woke me up. First came the excuses, then came the realization that it was all my fault. Every bit of pain I was feeling was caused by me. God just took his protective hand away to prove a point. I don't ever wish to feel that way again, but I thank God for that momentary pain because now, I'm a better Christian for it.
That was Friday, and soon enough it was Monday. Monday, of course, was New Year's Eve, and the anniversary of the first time that Trista and I met. We both attended a party at the Toman's in Paden City with several mutual friends. Six years later, here we were in Erie, Pa.--a long way removed from Paden City.
I know most of the folks reading this blog already know exactly what happened, so I'll cut to the chase. I asked Trista to marry me, she said yes, and if all works out, in roughly nine months, we'll be married.
It was no surprise to her that I was going to pop the question, because she picked out the ring and we bought it together. But I planned a little scavenger hunt that led to a few gifts, including the ring. It was a great evening and it was a lot of fun to share the news with our friends.
Like I said, it was a crazy weekend. One with a lot of ups and downs. But it was one I wouldn't trade for any other.
God is working in my life everyday and on Friday He really smacked me upside the head. I'm a Christian. I believe that Jesus is the savior, died for my sins and rose on the third day for my salvation. I'm also a sinner. There's been one sin in particular that keeps creeping into my life. I would confess that sin, knowing God would forgive me but I kept getting something wrong. I wouldn't get rid of it. I'd keep doing it. I'd always hear God telling me I was screwing up, but I'd ignore it. In other words, I had my fingers in my ears.
Well, God finally got tired of whispering it to me and pulled my fingers out of my ears and yelled right at me. There was no mistaking the message. It's easy to keep heading back to the same sin when there is no accountability, only self will. It's no secret that we, humans, aren't very strong. It's been said that God speaks loudest in our sorrows or that we don't listen until something is taken away. Well, that almost happened to me and it woke me up. First came the excuses, then came the realization that it was all my fault. Every bit of pain I was feeling was caused by me. God just took his protective hand away to prove a point. I don't ever wish to feel that way again, but I thank God for that momentary pain because now, I'm a better Christian for it.
That was Friday, and soon enough it was Monday. Monday, of course, was New Year's Eve, and the anniversary of the first time that Trista and I met. We both attended a party at the Toman's in Paden City with several mutual friends. Six years later, here we were in Erie, Pa.--a long way removed from Paden City.
I know most of the folks reading this blog already know exactly what happened, so I'll cut to the chase. I asked Trista to marry me, she said yes, and if all works out, in roughly nine months, we'll be married.
It was no surprise to her that I was going to pop the question, because she picked out the ring and we bought it together. But I planned a little scavenger hunt that led to a few gifts, including the ring. It was a great evening and it was a lot of fun to share the news with our friends.
Like I said, it was a crazy weekend. One with a lot of ups and downs. But it was one I wouldn't trade for any other.
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