Drawn From Still Waters Top 10 Albums for 2004
Number 2
R.E.M. – Around the Sun

Striking sound, striking lyrics, and a striking theme make this CD a real gem. It may not blow you away the first time you hear it, but it will grow on you. Each time I listened to it, I found that it became a little dearer to me. It contains Stipe’s best lyrics for years and holds together beautifully. From the opening of Leaving New York, to the closing Around the Sun, R.E.M. created a document that for me summarises the years 2001-2004. I'm looking forward to seeing the band as they tour Australia in March 2005. See the review posted earlier in the year.

Drawn From Still Waters Top 10 Albums for 2004

Number 3
Interpol – Antics

Wow! That’s about it. The first time I listened to this CD I was in awe from start to finish. It is probably as close to a flawless album as I’ve heard this year. I’ve not quite managed to get into the lyrics enough as yet, but the musicianship is stunning. I was quite taken with this CD so I also bought their 2002 release Turn on the Bright Lights, they have been compared with Joy Division (I’ve not heard much of Joy Division), but Hands Away, and NYC are awesome, and from Antics, Exit, Evil, Narc, Take You on a Cruise and Slow Hands, are close to the best start of a CD I’ve heard. I read about Interpol on another friend’s website. For that I am quite thankful. Interpol, have a touch of Radiohead (from the Bends era) about them in sound and they share a bleakness of lyric. Perhaps not as much on Antics as on Turn on the Bright Lights.

+++

Yesterday while I was doing a bit of shopping I had a look at one of The OC Soundtracks. While I'm not shy in admitting that I'd not really be that keen on the show, I was staggered to see how many songs on the soundtrack I not only knew, but liked.

+++

Thought that I'd point out a few articles from the SMH that caught my eyes this week. Emily Maguire wrote a piece that echoes some of my feeling for this year

The frustration of it[ed: the talk on values] all is that, while our leaders are busy being horrified by disco remixes and secular school concerts, situations deserving of righteous outrage are ignored.

I've saved the article about movies and dates for future reference, should I need it. Today there is a piece about evil and the existance of God. Interested in reading tomorrow's paper now.

Drawn From Still Waters Top 10 Albums for 2004

Number 4
Third Day – Wire

Third Day continue to deliver great sounding southern rock with great insightful lyric. The CD has spent a substantial amount of time in my player through 2004. Lyrically I like this CD more than any of Third Day’s previous CDs. A number of the songs deal with being a rockstar and a Christian. Wire talks makes a striking comment about the bond between a Christian act and their fan base Oh it makes me wonder / what if I slip will they catch me / or watch me fall. Mark Lee is commenting that fame is like walking a tightrope. On Rockstar, [Powell] comments that even if he wants to be a Rock Star / he [doesn’t] have what it takes, but it doesn’t matter, because to you [I’m reading God here] he’s so much more. Other standouts are: You Are Mine [Perhaps of God’s Love], It’s a Shame [A sad song about a relationship gone wrong – you left her without leaving / you hit her without swinging], and Blind:

The more I look the more I find / You’ve led me to the truth / … / You took my heart and changed it / with your words of life / You took my eyes and opened them / And gave me sight

I am seeing them in concert in Sydney, which should be great. For fans from their first self titled CD, they will find a very similar sound to their first CD.

when words seem trite ...

It's weeks like this that really shake your faith. Knowledge of our sovergein God makes things harder not easier. 60 000 lives, a large number of these children, why? We can lay blame, we can say in this comes good, but why? Our news leads with Australians missing, and focus on a footballer. Why?

I'm not in a space to say please pray yet. My heart is out of line with my head at this point. The poem below is a lame attempt to put my heart into words.

Light a Prayer

Light a candle, say a prayer
And shed a tear for this world today
Lives swept away with the oceans tide
Hard to see the news today

Oceans apart from the tide
Can’t find the words today
Light a candle for the lives washed away
Spend a moment to pray, a moments silence on other fields

Faith swept aside by the oceans tide
My heart cries, why?
Our sea an eerie glass,
A new respect is found

Light a candle, shed a tear
another tide, of mercy, and love.
Wash away our apathy;
Restore our compassion

December 28, 2004

Drawn From Still Waters Top 10 Albums for 2004
Number 5
Brooke Fraser – What to do with Daylight

A singer-songwriter from NZ, made it into the spotlight through supporting John Mayer during his Australian tour. I read the lyric to Arithmetic on another friend’s blog, I then went to HMV’s website read a little more about the CD. Most of the comments were very favourable. My Brother gave me the CD for my birthday; a week later I went and saw her live. The concert was awesome [I must post the review], and showed a stronger voice than on the CD. I was also impressed with how open Brooke was, and how she spent time after the show talking with her fans. I get the feeling the Brooke is destined for bigger things. Her lyrics are great, and speak to me.

Wake up feeling convicted / I know something’s not right / reacquaint my knees with the carpet

and

When the years are showing on my face / And my strongest days are done / when my heart and flesh depart my place / from a life that sung your song / You’ll still be the one I want

are two examples. In places her vocal recalls to mind Jewel, Norah Jones, or Sarah McLachlan. I am very interested in hearing more from her.

.. passed the point of no return .. no looking back now.

**Limited Spoilers**

Went and saw The Phantom of the Opera yesterday. First impressions; the singing was brilliant, Emily Rossum sang the role of Christine beautifully, as did Patrick Wilson and Gerald Bulter the roles of Roaul and the Phantom respectively. Discussions with the family on the way home concerning the sympathy the audience may, or may not feel for the Phantom (For my part I believe they did this really well; one scene in particular within which the Phantom destroys a rose crying). We also commented that it was a freer medium to use, as you are able to play with more sets. The costumes and sets where fantastic. It’s a risky thing translating a well-loved musical from the stage to the screen. Chances are if you mentioned the Phantom to people they would think of Michael Crawford and/or Sarah Brightman, so anyone singing that role is going to be compared to him; Gerald Butler and the cast have risen to the task.

The highlights of the film were also the transitions from the present back to the past. They were spell-binding; you’ll have to see the film to see what I mean. The final fadeout shot of the movie is absolutely fantastic. The costumes, and the stage direction were also brilliant, Masquarade was choreographed beautifully. Highlights of the singing for mine where Angel of Music, Think of Me, Wishing you Were Somehow Here Again and the Point of No Return and Notes, as were the standards (Music of the Night, All I Ask of You, and Phantom of the Opera)

Yeah I did really love the film. It’s been a while since I saw the musical; I remember bits and pieces as we all did. It was also fun to go to the movies with my parents as we’ve done that over the past three years (for the Lord of the Rings movies) so its kind of nice to keep doing it, will see what’s on this time next year.

The movie reminded me how good the musical is. Next stop, finding and reading the novel.

.. Resume countdown

I trust that you had a blessed day with family and friends, and are recovering well from eating too much, sleeping too little, and being spoilt rotten ;). I had a great day saw family on Christmas Day, and then yesterday down to vist friends in Figtree. Much fun had by all.

So.. lets catch up on the countdown.

Drawn From Still Waters Top 10 Albums for 2004
Number 8
The Finn Brothers – Everyone is Here

Finally bought this when I read the lyrics of A Life Between Us, posted on Deborah’s blog. I’ve been a big fan of Neil Finn for sometime. Anytime I’m asked for my favourite lyricists of all time Neil and Tim Finn are on the list. Along with A Life Between Us, other standout tracks are Won’t Give In and Homesick. The chorus of Homesick: Homesick for the people that I live with / Homesick for the spirit that I’m missing / Homesick for the country that I’m living in, really grabs me. Along with Neil and Tim Finn’s voice, it was their song-writing that drew me to Crowded House.

Number 7
U2 – How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb

It continues to grow on me. I’m intrigued now as I wait for the tour, and hearing what songs will be played live. My favourite tracks on the CD are City of Blinding Lights, Crumbs from Your Table, One Step Closer. I’m reminded of The Unforgettable Fire, when I listen to the CD.

Number 6
Wilco – A Ghost is Born

Another grower. Probably less consistent than Evermore and R.E.M., but this CD has its own distinctive flavour. On each listen there are more discoveries awaiting you. I love the lyric of Less Than You Think, the track also features 12 minutes or distorted noise (which detracts a little from the CD). Perhaps this is the band daring their audience to skip forward. During the CD, I’ve also at times just stopped to listen. I discovered Wilco via the Murmurs [R.E.M. fan] board.

the 5.36

Here's another quick poem. Karen may recognise it. This one was written while I was commuting to Sydney, late 2001.

blank stoney faces
silence shaken by piercing rings,
calls of "I'm on the 5.36.."
we remain silently anonymous,
in the midst of a moving crowd.

rustling pages
filled with yesterdays news
best sellers turning,
music filters from earphones,
silence dominates

going home?
the day plays back
weary hearts, and weary souls led home
minds realising the 5.36 comes to soon.

Drawn From Still Waters Top 10 Albums of 2004

Number 9
Mindy Smith – One Moment More
A recommendation from a friend in a Rebecca St James chat-room I moderate. Mindy Smith cover of Dolly Parton’s Jolene is stunning. Mindy has a strong clear voice, and has written the majority of the tracks on this CD too. I look forward to hearing more from her in future. Standout tracks: Jolene, Angel Doves, Fighting for it All. Took a while to find this CD, HMV had it in their country section. Now, don't hold that against me ;).

+++

May you all have a special day tomorrow, with family and friends, but more importantly, may we all be struck afresh of how God sent Jesus into the world, to took our place, by his death.

+++

Isaiah 9:6-7
Matthew 1:18-24
Hebrews 2:14-18

Carols at St Andrews

I went to the TBT's Carol's service last Sunday night. The lesson was interesting, he [being the infamous Dean of Sydney] titled his talk What are you looking for this Christmas?. In the lesson he contrasted the search of the Wise Men, and Herod. The wise men search to find the child to worship him. Herod search for the same child, to remove him. [From Matthew 2]

One of the striking comments made was as Philip described a picture, the picture was of a gentleman reading a story to children. The children where enraptured as he engaged with them. This is a picture of humanity. Glancing again at the picture, the man, is Adolf Hitler.

We are have the capacity for good and evil, one difference is simply the stage we are acting on.

Inpsite of moments in the sermon which I found intriguing, on the whole it was difficult to engage with the service. One of the reasons for this was during the intro to the service, the leader made comment to the song I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For. Perhaps it was this comment that threw me. I've (perhaps wrongly), seen I Still Haven't Found as a song from faith, not a song of doubt. There is a restlessness in the Christian walk, we're not looking for another answer, we're looking to be, to become what God has made us to be.

The Drawn From Still Waters Top Ten Albums of 2004

Between now and New Year's Day, I'll gradually post my favourite Albums. Today I'll begin with the honourable mentions, and number 10.

Norah Jones – Feels Like Home
A great follow up from Come Away With Me. Probably has less standout tracks, but Humble Me and Sunrise are two great tracks. Norah still does have an incredible voice.

Alanis Morrisette – So Called Chaos
Far less antsy than anything she’s recorded before. The songs are as intense as on any of her other records. Everything stands out, as does This Grudge [and those two songs are reason enough to buy the CD]. Musically this is also a little mellower than her previous CD’s.

The Frames - Burn the Maps
The most recent of my 2004 CD Purchases. Probably deserves to be higher, but seeing I've not really listened to much, its an honourable mention. Like many of the CD's on the list, this is a recommendation from the U2 website. The Frames are, I think, from Ireland. Kinda what I'd loosely describe as folk rock.

Number 10
Air - Talkie Walkie
My first contact with Air was through the soundtrack of Lost in Translation. I think it is Alone in Kyoto in the movie? They have quite a beaut sound. After reading of Joe, and Deb's fondness, I decided that I'd buy the CD, and after the first few listens I was taken by Mike Mills as well.

An Ode to 2004.. [precursor to the Christmas letter/blog entry]

In another 10 or so days we say goodbye to 2004. Memories of the year are haunted with tears; both tears of joy, and sadness.

I’d like to say that I know myself a little better now than on January 1. I know that 2004 will end differently to how it began. My usual journey to Beach Mission on December 27 will not occur. I will not be having a day off on New Year’s Day. In fact for the first time in seven years, I will actually see my parents on New Year’s Eve.

This is bittersweet.

I’m not sure that I’ve fully realised that mission will not be on this year. Last year mission was totally blessed. We had a great small team of dedicated Christian’s, God united us; God blessed us with children, and teenagers and adults who heard the gospel, perhaps for the first time. This is an awesome thing.

I will miss the fellowship with my brothers and sisters. Hmm maybe God closed this door for a reason. Maybe God will bring a new team there next year with a passion and enthusiasm to see to Gospel proclaimed. Still I can’t help but wonder if we treasured the opportunity we were given enough. People moved on, people move on every year, but we never really seemed to see more people join. I don’t know..

This would possibly have been my last mission at Fairy Meadow, having been there for 7 years, I thought one more than a break would be wise. So, maybe in the mix of this disappointment there is the kernel of belief that God maybe was telling me in the midst of all else to take a year to restore my relationship with Him. Draw deep encouragement and strength from Him over the week’s break that I have. And given the pace of the last half of the year a break over Christmas is welcome.

It has been a stressful year in relation to work too. We’ve seen a lot of staffing changes of the last three years. Come to think of it, we’ve had two Office Managers; two Business Managers, a number of senior staff come in, and go out of the doors. The New Year brings us to a new chapter; we’ll have a new Deputy (read Acting) Director, a large conference and a move to look forward to. I think it’ll be about August when I can come up for air.

And in this period of change at work, I’ll also be changing churches. Stability will be here in the form of home. I’ll be living with the G-Men for the year ahead. There’s a lot to be thankful there. In so many ways they do give me a homely feel. I argue with them, like I argue with my brother, we push each other to think. And I like that.

In relation to church; I’ve not really thought through where I’ll be going. I’m going to try out a couple, and see what they are like. I have been thinking of leaving for a while, and decided basically because though I have a lot to learn from those younger, I also have a desire to be with peers. Be with people who share my faith, and who have been going through the work related issues that I have this year. Next year, I’m heading toward 28, and those who will start going to church will be heading to 19. That’s 9-10 years difference, and that seems like a big gap.

And I guess I am also looking for a less transient church as well. And on the other hand, if I end up going to either SMBC, or Moore College in 2006, I’ll be moving and changing churches then as well. So this will either be for one or two years…

As for what I’ve been up to; trying to spend time with friends from Sydney, and friends from Wollongong. Last Sunday, I spent an awesome Sunday afternoon with one of my friends from NZ, who was visiting Australia with her husband. It was very precious time. I had coffee with them both as they left the country as well. God blesses us with friends who nurse our soul, challenge us to look to Him. These two S + U are like this for me. I treasure the time I have spent with them. S’s family and mine are good friends, well no, actually they are as family.

Over this weekend, I came down to watch the Extended LOTR films, all of them. We started Friday, and finished mid afternoon Saturday. Sunday was our Carol Service [Reflections to come..] Now there's three more days before a break that I am day by day looking forward too more and more. Though, need to say here, perhaps the standard line, that it doesn't feel like Christmas.

Next week I hope to blog reflections upon the year; some general, some on the topic of music, and film. Here are some nominations for album of the year [it’s been an excellent year for Music don’t you think, (yeah I really do think …)]

Air Talkie Walkie,
Evermore Dreams,
The Finn Brothers Everyone is Here,
The Frames Burn the Maps,
Brooke Fraser What to Do with Daylight,
Interpol Antics,
Norah Jones Feels Like Home,
Alanis Morrisette So-called Chaos,
R.E.M. Around the Sun,
Mindy Smith One Moment More,
Third Day Wire,
U2 How to Dismantle… and
Wilco A Ghost is Born.

CD’s bought that are ineligible (i.e. Live, or Best of’s):
Pearl Jam Rearviewmirror [Best of]
Aimee Mann Live at the St. Ann's Warehouse [Live, CD+DVD]
Sarah McLachlan Afterglow Live [Live, CD+DVD] and
Powderfinger These Days [Live]

+++

Dismantling a 21st Century Psalm

U2 // How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb [Universal]

One of the most eagerly anticipated releases for 2004, U2’s How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb was released last month. It’s been in my player for a fair proportion of the week, so I thought that the time was ripe to post some thoughts on the CD.

The impression that is resonating in my head at the moment is of the CD as a Psalm. Bono [who has written the majority of the CD’s 11 tracks], moves us through the feeling of disorientation in Vertigo, (beautifully highlighted in the video clip), through to Yahweh, which seems to provide closure. The CD deals with themes of death, love, peace.

How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb is close to, if not the most personal and honest song-writing Bono has done. The earnest, sincere heart of the band is out on its sleeve I feel How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb is U2’s most consistent CD in terms of song writing. On the whole I would say though some lyrics seem forced the CD is still impressively strong. Finally Dismantle has more religious imagery [highlighted in the book provided with the Limited Edition] than most of their back catalogue. How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb is arguably U2’s most spiritual record or perhaps second only to October. I also think the song writing is more open to interpretation than the 2000 offering, All That You Can’t Leave Behind, (although some songs were given new meaning during the 2001 Elevation Tour).

The CD features a number of beautifully moving songs – Sometimes You Can’t Make It … (they should rename this one Tough), City of Blinding Lights, One Step Closer and Crumbs From Your Table. Crumbs moves me a little more each time I hear it. I think in this song I’m hearing a plea to a church that has the capacity to do some much more, but fail to give even the crumbs from our tables. Another way to look at the song is a letter to the first world from the so-called third world. The chorus is one of the more gut wrenching in U2’s catalogue. From whatever angle you look at this song, it’s a killer, and the outro, wow. A Man and a Woman is another typically U2 love song, with the protagonist of the song, valuing love, over romance.

The CD has been strongly growing on me since the first listen. On each subsequent listen my appreciation of the musicianship and the chemistry of the band has grown – last time it was the piercing guitar in Love and Peace or Else, which must be an audio illusion to a bullet ripping the sky [Vertigo], realising The Edge sings a bit of Miracle Drug (beneath the noise, below the din), and one of the moments of the record is Bono’s beautiful emotionally charged ‘Sing you are the reason I sing’ from Sometimes You Can’t Make it On Your Own, a song Bono wrote for his father [along with One Step Closer].

And the CD finds its climax in the concluding line of Yahweh - Take this heart … and make it break. Only through the breaking of our hearts do we realise we are alive, do we know of our compassion - and concern, the breaking of who we are, to consider more than we are, to rebuild ourselves. Bono on this record has beared his soul. Dismantling the Atomic Bomb, is dismantling ourselves, dismantling what we value, dismantling what we have, and reassembling our attitude to the world. For as flashed across the screens of Zoo TV: It’s your world, you can change it; or as Gandhi said, (quoted on the booklet) ‘Be the change you want to see in the world’.

As to where the CD fit into their body of work? I definitely feel the songs on this CD will not age, and will be considered as good in 5-10 years as now, and this deserves to be considered alongside The Joshua Tree, and Achtung Baby as U2’s masterpiece.

these songs are in my eyes [and through my heart],
you’ll see them when I smile.

+++

.. and friends are friends forever if the Lord's the Lord of them

It has been an emotional couple of days. One thing I've learnt from my time working in a University environment, it is the transient nature. Particularly seeing as I not only work there, but have also been spending going to church there.

This, like each November is quite hard. Once exams have finished, the students gradually leave the Uni heading back to their families. While a proportion will be coming back to finish their degree, another number move on, graduating from Uni and seeking to find work in their chosen feild, and settle down into a different church.

Over the past few Sundays its been time to say, our temporary goodbyes. Last night we had a farewell for J who is leaving to head home to Singapore. It has hard to hold in tension, the knowledge that in our Fathers House we will meet again, and that there is a break of relationship.

Each of the students of Unichurch have encouraged me no end, as they continue to strive to live Godly lives, and also highlighted my own fallenness and how far I have stumbled. I thank God for each of them, and will hold them in my heart, knowing that in God's plan we will be gathered together, and share eternity with our saviour, creator and Lord.

Yesterday afternoon was also an interesting experience, out of the blue, I had a call from one of the teachers at the school I was taught at in 2001. The then Year 9's had inquired if I was attending their formal. I do have to admit that I was touched by that, unfortunately, I'm not able to go.

My thoughts since have wondered back to that year, and the struggle that I had with teaching a number of them. I wonder what they are like now, I am sure that God has continued to work His will in their lives, and that they have developed into people the school and our community can be proud of.

++

Changing tack, following on from Joe's blog, I thought I'd list the CD's I've bought, listened to over November.

Interpol: Antics, Turn on the Bright Lights
Brooke Fraser: What to Do With Daylight
Wilco: A Ghost is Born
Powderfinger: These Days [Live]
R.E.M. – Reckoning, Reconstruction of the Fables, Lifes Rich Pageant
Air – Talkie Walkie
U2 - How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb

+++

Song of the moment

Crumbs From Your Table - U2

From the brightest star
Comes the blackest hole
You had so much to offer
Why did you offer your soul?
I was there for you baby
When you needed my help
Would you deny for others
What you demand for yourself?

Cool down mama, cool off
Cool down mama, cool off

You speak of signs and wonders
I need something other
I would believe if I was able
But I'm waiting on the crumbs from your table

You were pretty as a picture
It was all there to see
Then your face caught up with your psychology
With a mouth full of teeth
You ate all your friends
And you broke every heart thinking every heart mends

You speak of signs and wonders
But I need something other
I would believe if I was able
But I'm waiting on the crumbs from your table

Where you live should not decide
Whether you live or whether you die
Three to a bed
Sister Ann, she said
Dignity passes by

And you speak of signs and wonders
But I need something other
I would believe if I was able
I'm waiting on the crumbs from your table

Words: [Bono] Music: [U2]

++++

Am posting this authored by my sister :)

Friday 15 October 2004: In the City of Blinding Lights

It was one of those typical Friday afternoons at work (in the office in East London), when you sit there counting down the minutes until 5.30 pm and the
weekend. I was idly checking my e-mails, when I found one from Duncan (my brother in Australia) saying that U2 were rumoured to be playing live in a carpark at the BBC studios at White City that evening, as part of the weekly Top of the Pops Programme.

Initially sceptical, I searched the net for confirmation, wondering if there was any substance to the rumour. But when I mentioned it to a colleague, she said she'd heard about it on the radio that morning.

That was sufficient grounds on which to race off after work, through the rain, to the other side of London. I was a bit dubious as to whether I'd even be able to get into the area, given what I'd heard about previous spontaneous live U2 performances. But I couldn't not try. And I couldn't believe my luck when I found myself three rows back from the front of the crowd waiting outside the gate of the carpark, peering at the stage through the bars, and (later) irritably asking the security guards inside to move when they blocked our view. We watched as those who'd been fortunate enough to win tickets to the event entered the compound. One section of the crowd tried starting up a chorus of 'I will sing ... sing a new song', but unfortuantely, despite its appropriateness, few of us ended up joining in. So we waited in relative silence (except for those desperately trying to hook up with friends on their mobile phones).

And then U2 came out. I couldn't believe how good a view we had! Bono joked that it was nice of the BBC to put on the rain for them. They launched into Vertigo and All Because of You, Bono working in some improvised 'BBC live' bits on a couple of occasions. Then he asked if we wanted them to rehearse some more. You can imagine what we said to that. After emphasising that this was the first time that these songs had been heard (live), he lead the band in the beautiful City of Blinding Lights. And then his exit line clarified to a crowd unable to believe its good luck that this had indeed just been a rehearsal, and that they would be back shortly to do the live performance.

Waiting in the rain a bit more was a small price to pay for that. When he came out again Bono made some tardis, 'exterminate pop music', joke, and then they launched (again) into Vertigo and All Because of You. Then we got about a stanza or so each of Desire and Mystery Girl [Bono being applauded when he held a particularly high note]. Bono told the Roy Orbison/Wembley story (although I couldn't really hear it), and then introduced City of Blinding Lights. He said it was about coming to New York and/or London as a kid, and about how innocence was worth so much more than experience. Coughing as he said this, he added some comment about how smoking 40 a day doesn't help. Then he talked of performing in the States after September 11, and the lights, and the sometimes tear-streaked, sometimes smiling and laughing faces of the audience, and how moved he'd been. It sounds like City of Blinding Lights is about all of this. It was certainly a very moving performance. I think the combination of his evocative description, the lyrics (e.g., 'What happened to the beauty inside of me?'), the beauty of the music (this was definitely my favourite of the new songs), and the magic of being here at this particular moment in time combined to leave me quite teary! Very moving.

It was great looking up at all the BBC employees on their balconies, hanging back at at work on a Friday evening so that they could be part of it too! Bono bade us farewell by telling us he'd see us next year. I couldn't work out what he said next to make the crowd crack up so much. But when I surfed the net at work on Monday morning, trying to relive the moment, it turns out that he'd forecasted (very plausibly, unfortunately) that it would still be raining!

I think the emotion that predominated on all the reviews I've read is one of pure and simple disbelief. None of us who were there seem to be able to come to terms with the fact that we wandered five minutes from a London tube station to stand outside a carpark for perhaps the best gig of the year - and didn't have to pay a single p for it!!!

And I'm still hugely amused that it was my brother in Australia who was the one to tell me about a U2 gig in London. But thank goodness he did! Just wish he and my Aussie friends had been there to share it with me!

***

'Some things you shouldn't get too good at Like smiling, crying and celebrity'

I might as well say it, I see it, I feel it, this town is going wrong, its turning away

Boy in the Well [Around the Sun – R.E.M, Warner]

**** [out of four]

Haunting melodies, jangling guitars and indecipherable lyrics brings my mind one of the more influential bands of the modern era – the three-piece from Athens, Georgia R.E.M. Michael Stipe is no stranger to the political scene a quick tour through their catalogue reveals songs about Vietnam, the indigenous rights and American Foreign Policy. Indeed one of my favourite lines underscores the topic of this CD – Let’s put our heads together, and start a new country up (Cuyahoga) – and R.E.M. was one band among many touring the United States with a concert promoting the candidacy of Senator John Kerry for the President of the United States.

Many of the songs from Around the Sun draw their inspiration from this theme, dealing with topics from Michael’s response to 9-11, or perhaps a personal letter to America following 9-11 [Leaving New York], the War in Iraq, and more generally the attitude of the Bush Administration in general, Stipe perhaps taking particular issue with the Administration’s refusal to sign the Kyoto Protocol?

On the CD, a number of tracks take the listeners mind to the military action launched against Iraq; in The Outsiders Stipe echoes the words of Bush; Either you are with us or you are with the Terrorists, Stipe adds his thoughts that this is perhaps too simple. On Final Straw, Stipe asks ‘look me in the eye, tell me why’. High Speed Train, Stipe, wants to go to Berlin, Kyoto or Marsielle –no doubt there is a message there for Bush. Boy in the Well again makes reference the direction his country is headed.

But for me – perhaps the saddest line is in Make it All Okay where Stipe is recounts a meeting with (it seems) a believer and in repeated lines says, Jesus love’s me fine, but His words fall flat this time, and then

If you offered me your world, did you think I’d really stay?
If you offered me the heavens, I would have to turn away.
Was it my imagination, or did I hear you say.
We don’t have a prayer between us.

Another line that stands out, a perhaps more so after our recent election – was ‘everyone is humming a song I don’t understand’.

Around the Sun is one of the stronger CD’s that R.E.M. has put out for some time. I have found with each listen the CD is grows on me a little more. Indeed given the re-election of Bush the CD has developed a new lease of life. R.E.M., tour Australia early next year, and now we know that George Bush has been re-elected it will be interesting to see how the set-lists change as the band works through their tour.

Postscript: I'm staggered by the number of reviews for the new U2 CD that have criticised R.E.M. I believe Around the Sun to be not only one of R.E.M's finer, but one of 2004's finer releases (now there's a topic for a new entry - The Drawn From Still Water Top 10 CD's for 2004), and I am disappointed by the reaction of the majority of reviewers to the R.E.M. CD.

Weekend Reflections: Let's not mention the Cricket

Moving on. The highlight of the whole weekend was going to HMV’s midnight opening to buy the new U2 CD, How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb, with some fellow U2-geeks. It was a great night. We meet up at Pitt St Mall. There were about 6 of us, Amanda (who runs these sites), Bryce, Andrew and Caroline, and Kathleen.

We went out to PJ O'Briens Irish pub in the City, (who told us that they would play U2, as they do every Saturday night. I think we were there for about two hours, and they played one U2 track, Beautiful Day).

It was great to spend an evening with another group of people; we had great fun talking about our various U2ey experiences, and other stuff. Oh yeah, there are even photos too.

So, after a great night of talking, we wandered over to HMV and waited, about 11:50ish we heard and saw signs of life, other U2 fans who were their to pick up their copy[ies] ;) along with I assume Kylie, and Gwen Stefani fans, as HMV were also opening for that CD release too. The speakers crackled into life and we heard kylie first, then my first taste of the new U2 CD, I think that it was A Man and A Woman, followed later by Vertigo, and then City of Blinding Lights. It was great fun as none of us had listened to the leaked CD, and a few had heard some as they were played on the radio, so we were trying work out between us what each song was.

We saw other customers get free posters as they bought the CD… well we got a compilation CD, that looked like it was burnt just as we walked into the store… jipped I say.

We posed for U2-Geek-type photo’s, then made our way home. Once I got home, yep I didn’t go straight to sleep; I placed CD in DiscMan and listened all the way through. Ahh yeahhh .. I absolutely loved City of Blinding Lights and Sometimes You Can't Make It ... on first listen. [A non-Duncan review, Dunc's review will follow soon...]

[Note: All photo's courtesy of Amanda].

Some works in progress...

Not quite sure this is finished. Mayhaps it needs polishing?

Heaven Fell Silent

Heaven was silent,
my soul in anguish
tears fall from my eyes
the world is deaf, dumb, and blind,
to the hands of creation's author

God himself is silent
relationship is broken,
My mind falls back to the rainbow,
the flood replaced by a dam

Faithfulness? One like us
our Father, creator,
creation is silent
empty in isolation

Desertion, God knows well
upon a hill, the righteous one
held to wood, by nails of love

held, weak, deserted,
our nails, His scars,
amazing mercy, rich, not free,
The silence of God breaks
through a cry,
it is finished...

[untitled]

It was the death of me
The heart you taught to write
Beat out of time; beats out of tune

It’s hard to yield; harder still to fight
The storms that beat, will pass
Though at feels like I’m at the heart

More tempting to stray
to life that has no prize
And costs your very soul

It’s hard to yield; harder still to fight
The storms that beat, will pass
Though at feels like I’m at the heart

My heart faced these trails before
My heart knows its foe
Yet this time the storm has too much

It’s hard to yield; harder still to fight
The storms that beat, will pass
Though at feels like I’m at the heart

The death of me,
My soul overcome, yet knows no other way
You called to me, My heart looks and reaches …

Its quiet now, and what it brings is everything…

So, it has been a while. An unexpected thing happened last week I turned 27.Well, not quite completely unexpected, as I have a birthday each and every year. But I have stopped and wondered where did the years since I started University disappear too?

It seems like just yesterday that I was finishing by Dip Ed, and living with my parents. Wow, I’m 27 now. I don’t feel old, that’s not really a part of it. It’s just time is continually disappearing faster than I can redeem it.

Another interesting reflection, my brother [Hola, Matt], mentioned to me that while he was in a [nameless] Christian bookshop they did not know who C.S. Lewis was. My brother gave them a little bit of help, too which the salesman commented he [C.S. Lewis] must be out of print. I mean, even the [other] bookstore at least knew he wrote The Chronicles of Narnia. This is Sad. Kids are growing up unaware of Narnia, with bookstore people unaware of C.S. Lewis.

The weekend ahead should be a blast, am heading into Sydney on and going to HMV’s midnight opening with fellow U2-Crazies to buy U2’s new CD. On Sunday I’ll be going to a colleague’s 30th Birthday party in Waverly, where we’re going to have a few games of Lawn Bowls. Will be fun…

A Lunar voyage, of Self Exploration

You Are From Neptune

You are dreamy and mystical, with a natural psychic ability. You love music, poetry, dance, and (most of all) the open sea. Your soul is filled with possibilities, and your heart overflows with compassion. You can be in a room full of friendly people and feel all alone. If you don't get carried away with one idea, your spiritual nature will see you through anything.

What Planet Are You From?

Well - of those the one that I was most struck with was You can be in a room full of friendly people and feel all alone, which is SOO totally me.

Turn off those bells and whistles..

I really love this article I found it one of the best reflective pieces I read on the anniversary of 11 September, and I'd been meaning to post this September but I just took a while to find it on my computer :).

It's Time to Turn Off Those Bells and Whistles

By Matt Richtel [New York Times]; Published: September 2002.

Put down that SkyMall catalog. You do not need a juicer that has e-mail access. While you're at it, shove your cellphone, BlackBerry and other gadgets into the sock drawer.

You can pick them up again on Thursday.

That's the day after the anniversary of the terrorist attacks, a day that, among its many facets, lets us reflect on the mixed blessing of technology in our lives.

There's no doubt that we should raise a glass to the ubiquitous silicon chip for its dedication, dependability and overall contributions on Sept. 11. Cellphone calls from 30,000 feet and more than 100 floors up let some of us hear our loved ones for the last time. The phones delivered continuing reports of heroism. They permitted those of us a proverbial million miles from ground zero to call to tell one another: that plane just crashed into my heart.

Around-the-clock news updates - on television, over the Internet and through wireless hand-held gadgets – informed us on that day that our world was falling apart, and then that it would remain intact. For a few days, the one thing that seemed almost as important to us as kin was the constant flow of news.

The trouble is, we have so often abused technology and let it dull our senses. And so, on Wednesday, consider observing a moment, if not a day, of data silence. Pull the D.S.L. connection out of that forearm vein. Listen. Slow down. Understand that whatever it is you think you need, you don't absolutely, positively need it overnight:

Do not instant anything. Your interpersonal relationships are not enhanced by setting a record for the sending and receipt of messages like "Hi. How R U," or "Insnt MssGng Is so kool!" When the urge hits for interaction, get positively medieval: write a letter. Write it on something that the old-timers called paper. Use your own font. Handwriting has personality - yours. Let "instant" be replaced by "anticipation."

Do not call your orthodontist. If this sounds odd, you may not be familiar with the cellphone orthodontist principle. It comes into play when you are addicted to talking on the phone while driving but have run out of people to call. Eventually, desperate for anyone to talk to, you phone the guy who attached your braces in junior high and say: "I love what you did with my teeth. Are you busy for the next 40 miles?"

The point is this: On Wednesday, don't call someone unless you mean it. Save your minutes for Thursday. Don't fill dead air time with empty words. While you're at it, restrict incoming calls. Turn off the ringer. That person sitting across from you at lunch deserves all your attention. Pretend that he or she is a New York firefighter. Do not once say: "Hold on. That's the other line."

Don't upgrade - anything. That empty nagging feeling you have? It's not the need for more megahertz. You will not feel any more connected to other human beings if you can see their virtual images more clearly on a new flat-screen monitor. Go outside and browse other people. Establish a wireless connection formerly known as the hug.

Don't be caught on the 24-hour news merry-go-round. The round-the-clock, rapid-fire television news format has become a potpourri of factoids, rumor and important updates about what George Clooney had for lunch. On Wednesday, pull your head off the swivel. Don't be distracted by snippets. Read one entire news article start to finish, whatever the topic. Five minutes later, make a concerted effort to remember what the heck it was about.

Don't multitask. Give your undivided attention. When you're nursing the baby, don't talk on the phone. When you're talking on the phone, don't check your e-mail messages. When you're checking your messages, don't clip your nails, browse the Web, pay your taxes, tell your mother you love her and keep running back and forth to the kitchen to see if you've received even more e-mail on your new juicer.

Don't think about tomorrow. Forget about what advances are to come and whether you're falling behind. News flash: You're behind. Get over it. Instead, think about the past - not a year ago, but long before. Think about how technology, which has evolved into incredible gadgetry like cellphones, has evolved along another path into weapons of mass destruction. Think about how to use in-person diplomacy in your own life to settle old, tired, unnecessary disputes.

If you feel angry and vengeful, don't fight it. Use your destructive energy for good: Delete an emoticon. Kill a symbol. In its place, express a real emotion - good, bad or indifferent. Find the words - not symbols, acronyms or digital era short-cuts - that mean: I love you. I miss you. I'm sorry. This Wednesday, keep it real. You can get virtual again on Thursday.

Lest We Forget

In Flanders Feilds the poppies blow
Between the crosses row on row,
That mark our place; and in the sky
The larks, still bravely singing, fly
Scarce heard amid the guns below.

We are the Dead. Short days ago
We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,
Loved and were loved, and now we lie
In Flanders fields.

Take up our quarrel with the foe:
To you from failing hands we throw
The torch; be yours to hold it high.
If ye break faith with us who die
We shall not sleep, though poppies grow
In Flanders fields.

The story of the poem is recorded here. Also a link to the Australian War Memorial page with a transcript of Paul Keating's speech from 1993.

+++

The First Two Minute Silence in London (11th November 1919) as reported in the Manchester Guardian, 12th November 1919.

'The first stroke of eleven produced a magical effect.

The tram cars glided into stillness, motors ceased to cough and fume, and stopped dead, and the mighty-limbed dray horses hunched back upon their loads and stopped also, seeming to do it of their own volition.

Someone took off his hat, and with a nervous hesitancy the rest of the men bowed their heads also. Here and there an old soldier could be detected slipping unconsciously into the posture of 'attention'. An elderly woman, not far away, wiped her eyes, and the man beside her looked white and stern. Everyone stood very still ... The hush deepened. It had spread over the whole city and become so pronounced as to impress one with a sense of audibility. It was a silence which was almost pain ... And the spirit of memory brooded over it all.'

This vaguely sums up the past two months...

A little news

It seems to be getting a little too long between posts. We are closer to getting the Internet back on. Not much else has been happening, I went to a fiends 21st on Saturday last – it was a themed party, I went as a Jester [sorry no photos]. It was great to catch up with people that I haven’t seen for a while, and didn’t expect to see there either. Paul, on of the guys from my Beach Mission team was there – it was great to hear how he was going.

Sunday, had lunch with my brother, Nathan and Jasmin from my old church, good to chat, and play a board game, until I had to head on back to Sydney. Eventful Sunday afternoon trip back too, the train was running 70 minutes behind time, so I just managed to get to church before the Sermon.

The sermon was from Joshua 5-6 [One of those ones the Pastor would prefer not to preach]. We learnt that the battle of Jericho was God’s fight. It’s kind of unsettling to think of God as judge, but He is. Perhaps what should grab us is not that God destroys some, but He choses to spare anyone. God has appointed a day when all souls will be called to account before Him. The question isn’t is God on our side, but are we on His – and following on from that; what does it mean to be on God’s side; what does our allegiance look like?

Work’s also quite busy at the moment ~ we ran about like headless chooks for most of Friday trying to ensure that we did get a tender off, which with the UNSW Email Server taking the day off proved to be difficult.

The rest of the week is pretty usual – Bible Study tomorrow night, in which we’ll be looking at the final few chapters of The Revelation of John, then a dinner with the Netball team on Thursday. The weekend will be busy again too – heading out to Luna Park on Saturday, then down to Wollongong, for a housewarming, after which I’ll head back for church on Sunday.

+++

So, was also going to talk about those songs. Will begin with Lee Ann Womack’s I Hope You Dance. I only chanced upon it as my sister gave the single to me for my 23rd birthday. I think what I loved about this song was the lyric, which is such a beautiful message from one to another: Its message is simply make the most of who you are, take the chances you have.

If you get a choice to sit it out or dance/I hope you dance

The Ground Beneath Her Feet was written by Salman Rushdie, which has only recently totally grabbed me: I was driving home from a friends place, and heard the song for the first time, rendering me speechless:

For what I worshipped stole my love away, It was the ground beneath her feet

How to Disappear Completely is different in that it is not the words alone, but the atmosphere created as the words combine with the music that really grabbed me. Kid A took a few listens to get into, but now, I’d consider it as much a masterpiece as Ok Computer.

I still remember the first time I heard The Metre. I was working at the University of New South Wales, in the School of Social Science and Policy, I was listening to the Denton breakfast show, and it was September 2001. Along with a poem that Andrew Denton read [which I’ll try and find], the words really spoke to me at that time– if you measure the world by the mark that you make, welcome to the saving grace.

I bought Afterglow earlier this year; it was the first I’d actually heard of Sarah McLachlan. Sarah does have a beaut voice – but the video clip for World on Fire was brilliantly done. It’s not your typical video – with great special effects, or soft-porn (as too many are these days), the video makes a point. Watch the clip, and let me know what you think.

The world's on fire it's more then I can handle
I'll tap into the water try and bring my share
Try to bring more, more then I can handle
Bring it to the table, Bring what I am able

Hearts are worn in these dark ages
Youre not alone in these stories pages
The light has fallen amongst the living and the dying
And I'll try to hold it in, Yeah I'll try to hold it in

I watch the heavens but I find no calling
Something I can do to change what's coming
Stay close to me while the sky's falling
I don't wanna be left alone don't wanna be alone

Hearts break hearts mend love still hurts
Visions clash planes crash still theres talk of
saving souls still colds closing in on us

We part the veil on our killer sun
Stray from the straight line on this short run
The more we take the less we become
The fortune of one man means less for some

Finally, I want to post these snippets from Miserere: Wretched wretched me, but I toast life! […] I am the saint who betrayed you / now I’m the beggar who owes you […] I live in the soul of the world, lost in the depths of life.

Anyway, enough from me! Please let me know what songs or lines from songs that touch you, at the moment...

Quote[s] of the week ...

It felt like a harbinger of a long winter of discontent, and perhaps a much longer sojourn in the wilderness - a prospect made all the worse by the sense that the world was somehow, bizarrely, disconcertingly, out of joint.

It was actually happening. The nerd was kissing the homecoming queen. Paper was beating scissors; scissors were beating rock. Charlie Brown was kicking the football. The Red Sox were beating the Yankees for the American League pennant.
[The NYT reflects on Boston's 4-3 series win over the Yankees].

Curse of the Bambino??

Legend has it, after the Red Sox manager sold Babe Ruth to the New York Yankees, [Picture the fist record label executive turning down The Beatles], a curse was placed on the Red Sox. Perhaps history bears it out - since 1918, the Yankees have won 26 Major League Baseball Titles, and the Red Sox none, and they had lost some from seemingly invincible positions.

The Red Sox are perennial bridesmaids, and it was probably only the team itself who believed after the Yankees won the first three games of their seven game series they could even make the Final Series.

But make it they did... becoming the first team to erase a three game lead to win a series. Now they lead the [World] Series against the St. Louis Cardinals 3-0.

This afternoon an 86 year hoodoo was broken.

Soundtrack for a time

Thought I'd share the tunes that are running through my head at the moment. For one reason or another [either the words, the tune, or both] these songs are stuck in my head.

The Ground Beneath Her Feet - U2
How to Dissappear Completely - Radiohead
I Hope You Dance - Lee Ann Womack
The Metre - Powderfinger
Miserere - Andrea Bocelli and Zucchero, [and there's also a beaut version by Pavorotti and Bono]
World on Fire - Sarah McLachlan

Other notable songs are I Wanted to Be Wrong [R.E.M.], Clocks [Coldplay] and Only Hope [Switchfoot].

+++

Should add that I'm intermittent about blogging at the moment as our my flatmates and I are re-thinking our ISP. I'll post more about each of the above songs, once we get a connection back at the flat. :) Also please welcome Guan to my blogroll (who also attends Unichurch with me :))

+++

Also want to say ~ it was great to go to the Wollongong Univeristy Christian Union's Supporters dinner [see Elsie's post]. Great to hear the Campus ministry is thriving. Though the names and faces of the MTS Trainees and staff change, what does not is that the hand of God is will active, more people are being discipled, and encouraged, as God opens their eyes and causes them to grow and bear fruit - and that is beautiful.

Soccer, and some jazz ...

Busy week. Saw the Socceroos Confederation Cup match with the Solomon Islands on Tuesday night which was fun. Well - it took the first 20 minutes to actually get into the ground. But once we got in there, we saw a dominant if not brilliant performance by the Socceroos.

Down to Wollongong last night, I was told that Elixir were playing a gig at my former local - The Heritage Hotel in Bulli. Which is a beautiful building, rich in history.

The concert was great. Katie, has a voice to die for, such an expressive range and added to by the hauntingly beautiful sax, and guitar. Wonderful night. The band performed mostly new material and also included two covers Goodbye Yellow Brick Road, and What's Going On.

Am heading back down to Wollongong tonight, for a friend's 25th Birthday, then on to the Wollongong Univeristy Evangelical Christian Union Supporters Dinner. Should be a fun weekend :)

>>> Dismantling the Election, part 2.

Seeing as I posted an entry speaking on voting, I thought I’d stay on the political theme for another moment or two.

So, John Howard has won a fourth term. Regardless of what I feel of his policies that is a remarkable achievement. I acknowledge that the Australian people voted him in, and have clearly stated their support for him. This however does not remove my feeling that we lost the moment to say what we as a nation value, and who we as a nation are.

Why did Latham lose? Well it’s not simply because of the interest rate scare, although that message did get through.

The result of the election is down to as much Howard’s experience, as Latham’s inexperience. Beazley suggested on ABC’s coverage that the result was not as bad as it could have been, and that’s probably true. An election late last year, may well have given the Coalition a greater majority than ’96.

I wonder about a few things in relation to Latham’s campaign. Firstly – I don’t agree that his campaign was totally positive, although I do think that his advertising emphasised policy areas of concern while the Government emphasised the character of Latham. I don’t think that he sold his policies well. I think that he was out-foxed with respect to the Forest Policy. And perhaps the preference deal with the Greens did more harm than good; as Ben mentioned while the ALP aligns itself with the Greens it potentially alienates a large number of its traditional supporters.

I think it is under pretty exceptional circumstances that citizens elect to change government; generally under good economic conditions an Opposition is up against it. Personally, I’ve realised through working in a political environment the majority are silent, until polling day. But its wrong to suggest that all of those who voted the Coalition in agree with the war, or agree with their refugee policy, rather these are not seen as reasons to vote out Howard’s Government.

Moving on, it will be worth watching the mark Family First leave on the Australian Political landscape. Are they likely to be a balancing act to the government, and hold the government accountable? Today's Australian runs a piece on the party. And there's also another Opinion piece talking about Christianity as the new political force.

Though two articles from Monday caught my attention – Hugh Mackay wrote a piece talking arguing that it wasn't about the campaign. Another piece by Clive Hamilton who wrote "the Coalition victory reflects the unhealthy preoccupation with self that characterises modern Australia".

Before I leave the sphere of politics, my commitment now is to remain engaged – congratulate this government when it is 'right', and to continue to register disapproval when appropriate.

>>> How to Dismantle an Election

+++
I want to be careful, I really hesitated before posting this, because I don’t want to put stumbling blocks in front of people. I don’t want to turn people of the Gospel because of my political opinion. At the same time, I want to explore the issues surrounding what impacts the way we vote as Christians. And I may be wrong.

+++

I’ve been watching a little bit of television over the past few weeks. I found Insight during the last few weeks to be fascinating. Insight is a forum program, and last week they were talking to young –first time voters. The program didn’t get close to covering all the detail. But the gist of the young people’s comments was that neither party communicates with young people, and seeks to label issues as youth issues. You could see a breakdown in communication all night. As the two politicians spoke, faces went blank, eyes rolled, and the message was not received, and the following week the lesson was people feel taken for granted as two years of inaction is followed by a flurry of promises and further inaction. The economic issues, of security and the like, get a run ahead of values. The general mood is that happiness is defined in terms of dollars and cents, or a good career [Clive Hamilton is one of many researchers who has been talking about the relationship between money and happiness].

One of the things that has been running around my head particularly over the last week or so, since I went to the CASE Election Forum, was how Christians thought in general about voting, who they should vote for, and what impacts their question. During the CASE seminar four people outlined the reasons the voted in a particular manner [the parties were Liberal, Labour, Christian Democrats and the Greens]. We spoke about issues of conservative family values we spoke about issues of truth in Government, the Iraq War, Refugees-asylum seekers, and other issues of Social Inequality. And it seems to me, that Christian’s by-enlarge will use the former to make their decision. Yes it is true to say that conservative family values is not the sum total of Christian belief, it seems to largely be the determining one.

After watching the Cutting Edge documentary on the faith of George W. Bush, I was left with little doubt that Bush has a strong Evangelical faith. One of the striking claims was that Bush, in the 2000 election, won 84 per cent of the Evangelical vote. From the US polls, and casual conversations I’ve had with a few American friends, it seems that this will be repeated. I find this staggering, I just keep saying where are the Christians who oppose Bush, who has misled the nation, dragging them off to a war, for which there was no plan. It seems that Iraq is less stable than before Bush went in, and we’ve created a fertile soil for growing more terrorists, and that is without mentioning any domestic issues. Bush will have their vote; seemingly on issues of conservative values – stem cell research, pro-life, pro-traditional marriage, and faith-based action.

Speaking personally, I have been thinking through the issues of who to vote for in the upcoming election. I was not happy when I saw the Labour Party nominate Peter Garrett as the candidate for the seat in which I live. I believe that candidates should be pre-selected by the membership of the party, not imposed by the party leadership.

Though, as the campaign has continued, while I have seen and heard very little of Garrett [to my disappointment], I have been growing in my respect for Latham, and how he has run the campaign. Yes I think there is a lot about Latham that is not desirable. But I am not willing to let this government, that has created a strong economy at a social cost; this government that has been loose with the truth in relation to Children Overboard and the war in Iraq; this government that has sullied Australia’s reputation in the Global community by wilfully ignoring international treaties to which we are signatories, off the hook.

I have to admit that the two biggest messages that have got through over the course of the campaign. (1) Interest rates will go up under Latham (or its the Economy stupid, and (2) you can’t trust an inexperienced politician to run the country. And I think both of these are wrong. Sometimes I think we devalue freshness. By enlarge we are a cautious bunch. In my judgement with our caution we are doing damage, and this damage is more extensive than the damage of electing a Latham government. And perhaps not surprisingly no public economist is on the record saying interest rates will be higher under Latham.

I’m interested to hear from readers why you are intending to vote in that manner you will. I am desperately keen and interested to hear from American Christians how they will vote in the US Election. I should note that I am more interested in how you decide to vote, than whom you vote for.

+++

A run through today's editorials - the SMH comes down asserting its independence, acknowledging of course, "the policy may not hold forever. A truly awful government of any colour, for example, would bring reappraisal"., while The Age, The Courier Mail and The Australian suggest on the balance we should return the Coalition. While The Sun Herald last Sunday suggested Latham needs another three years as Opposition leader.

We Won !!!!

Yep. That's right, the netball team that I am part of won our first game tonight, 23-19. I played Wing Defense this week, a bit more running, and I'm getting used to playing in varied roles on court which is quite cool. Playing Netball has been a great way to get to know people in church better, and get a little bit more exercise each week :)

World Teacher's Day

I was looking at the Leunig Calendar that came with our Sydney Morning Herald earlier in the year. I looked at todays date and found that today is World Teacher's Day. Having spent time on both sides of the desk I recognise the role the teachers play.

What I want to use this entry for today is to thank my teachers for their work with me. I value these hours they spent trying to teach me. I am, who I am, in part because of their efforts. Let's continue to pray for those who are in, and seek to enter the teaching profession.

What’s been happening

::Went to a CASE Seminar on the Election, and will post my reflections during the course of this week.

:: Played Netball as usual on Thursday, I played Centre, now that was a lot of work, and very tiring. I’m sure it would have been quite hilarious watching me [attempt to] play Centre.

:: On Saturday night went to Tim Freedman [of The Whitlims] for a friends Birthday. Have to admit that I am not that familiar with Tim’s music. It was quite a depressing gig. The lyrics were far more bleak than I remembered, and the band has also had a pretty sad time of it, two of the members committed suicide. The music itself was interesting, having an up-tempo song with a bright sound full of such distressing memories. I need to say it was great going to a pub, and not inhaling any lungfuls of Cigarette smoke.

:: I’m going to try my hand at a CD review. I bought R.E.M.’s Around the Sun, and Evermore’s Dreams. I’ll post a review of Around the Sun here soon. I was quite happy to hear that R.E.M. will be touring here in March next year. Along with U2 and Radiohead, R.E.M. is one band I’m heaps interested in seeing live.

:: Went to my old church again this weekend. Good to catch up with the gang, but am looking forward to being back at my Sydney church next weekend.

:: Next weekend, having an all-day-brekky with friends from Unichurch. Then going to a post-election party with workmates.

Before Sunset

++Spoilers++

Almost a months ago now I went to the Dendy Cinema at the Opera House, to see the newly released Before Sunset.

I’d been meaning to see Before Sunrise for a long time. It had been recommended to me, and I was quite interested as it seemed like quite an interesting film. My sister suggested that I see Before Sunset first - because why should I have a clearer recollection of their first meeting than either of the characters.

The premise – in the first film two twenty something American’s meet as they trek through Europe. And as they part in the first film they promise to meet each other again in 6 months. They don’t exchange contact numbers, and didn't meet as they arranged.

In Before Sunset nine years had passed since their first meeting, and Jesse had written a book, (fictional work, based around that meeting in Venice], Celine walks into the book store where he is doing an interview.

The dialogue between these two characters drives the film. Incidentally Delphy and Hawke are credited in writing the script. And this plays a significant part in the success of the film. The dialogue is beautifully written. It expresses an uncomfortable distance at first, then as the nervousness of the meeting, and the failure to meet as arranged is explained and resolved the dialogue draws the two characters closer together again.

The cinematogrpahy adds a great deal to this film. The film begins with a sequence of shots of Paris, places that through the remainder of the film we will see Jesse and Celine travel.

The ending is sudden. I’m left wondering did I really want this to happen. Did I really want them to end up as they did? At the same time, is it the death of their relationship, a fate they sought to avoid by not exchanging details after their first parting. Their relationship was initially built from a connection that happened on a train and a night in Venice, it was this passionate encounter that ruined every other relationship for each of them. Did they give too much of themselves on that night, so they could no longer give enough to make any other relationship work. Jesse’ marriage is like babysitting, and no longer ‘romantic’. Celine is currently in a relationship were her partner is away a lot of the time, and his attention is suffocating not comforting.

Yet as we are reacquainted with these characters we learn each of the characters has been longing for the reunion. Jesse, went to Venice, and in part wrote the book for this reason – that they would meet each other. Celine wrote a song inspired by their meeting. The both are lead to second-guess why they did not exchange numbers which was seemingly to maintain the chemistry of their relationship.

The film poses many questions. It deals with the themes of love, romanticism, idealism, consequences of choices, maturing. The film asks can we capture and keep the feeling of living for the moment, the feeling that Jesse and Celine had as they meet in Venice for the first time, and rekindled during their time in Paris. Would seeking to continue their relationship ruin it? Is joy really in the journey and not in the destination?

As the film ends, the curtain is not brought down on our leads relationship, the curtain is not brought down on their fragility, and the curtain is not brought down on their doubts. They are together. Will it last. Maybe. We don’t know. And perhaps this is the best way to end the film.

In a sentence, Before Sunset is a film that has leapt off the screen and onto my favourite films of the past few years, and one that I'm very keen to see again.

A Weekend on Film

Over the past weekend I’ve been and seen two films, the Tom Hanks, Steven Spielberg film The Terminal, and M. Night Shyamalan’s The Village. Both of these films are to a certain extent a parable (or parody) of the 21st Century America.

Spielberg in The Terminal shows us, the America he loves, highlighting an America built on the back of Immigrants. And an America that needs to trust in the generosity and resourcefulness of those who move into the country. The lesson for us is that rather than fearing those who are different, America, and us too, should be more open to those who seek to come to our shores.

The film is inspired by the true story of Merhan Karimi Nasseri. Who was expelled from Iran, and has been living in Charles de Gualle Airport, as he has no documentation to enter France, and can not be sent back to Iran. In the terminal Viktor Navorski, arrives at JFK, and while he was in transit a coup erupted in his home country, invalidating his travel documents. America is now closed to him, and he can not be sent home. So he is told to live in the transit lounge.

Hanks plays the role quite well. In the beginning most of the action is silent. Hanks runs from monitor to monitor trying to see the news of his home town. The optimism of his character is appealing. He makes the best of the situation, making himself a bed in a disused gate due to renovation, he eats the free crackers with mustard and sauce. While he is there he gradually teaches himself english, and builds a reputation among the workers in the airport. Hanks is asked to intrepret between the customs authorities and an inbound passenger who is seeking to bring medicine in to save his father. Hanks translates the medicine is for a goat, allowing the medicine to be imported into the country without documentation. A reputation gained through standing up for the intent rather than the letter of the law.

The interplay between Amelia and Viktor is quite humerous in places, leading to some of the more tender moments in the film. A couple that stand out is the dinner that they share, and the entertainment that Viktor’s friends. Viktor’s role leading to the marriage of two of the films characters is aslo quite humerous.

However, all that said, I felt the film was not quite there. It was a great idea, but dissappointingly executed. The motiviations of some of the lead characters were confusing at best, and it is hard to gauge Spielberg’s intent. Was Spielberg seeking to illuminate the ‘New’ America, if so, he has done it quite subtlely, and perhaps the ‘love story’ and comic elements have concealed his subtely. Through the film I am now interested in seeing Lost in Transit, a French adaption of the story of Merhan Karimi Nasseri.

Another film, with a different take on the 21st Century America is The Village. The Village does offer much for those with a bent towards psychology, both in terms of the plot, and in some sections the manner in which it is constructed. I found this to be a slightly frustrating film, as there was so much promise in the film, yet it was slightly disappointing in a few minor areas. Yet the film continues to grow on me. The performances by Bryce Dallas Howard [Ivy], and Joaquin Phoenix [Lucius] are stunning and their roles carry the film well. The relationships of the lead characters are also wonderfully done.

The film is set in a village in Pennsylvania in the late 19th Century. There are creatures in the woods. There is an unspoken agreement they will not be harmed by those in the woods, and they will not cross in the woods. There are two colours, ‘the bad colour’ that ‘attracts them’ the colour red bringing to mind violence and blood, and the town is guarded each night by men who wear yellow cloaks, the ‘safe’ colour. The perimeter of the town is also lined with yellow cloth, and yellow paint to protect them.

Lucius after the death of a friend desires to cross through into the forbidden woods to find medicine. The elder council decline to give permission. Luicius out of his curiosity crosses into the woods. The creatures over the next night enter the village, leaving more warnings. To reveal more of the synopsis, now that would be spoiling.

I have found the film effective, because I have been thinking about it. The film is a less optimistic take on the new America. Looking back I would also say that the cinematography, and the dialogue of the film is quite sharp in a number of places, the music and camera work beautifully creates the mood of the film from the opening to closing credits.

It’s hard to talk about this film without giving too much away. The film raises some profound questions. I am left in no doubt that Shyamalan has created a parable for modern times, I am beginning to feel if we seek to read too much, or too little from this film, its lessons will be lost on us.

If you have seen it – let me know what you thought; probably via email as it is quite a struggle to nail why the film was so insightful, and influential without revealing too much of the film.

Closing time ...

The great Australian ritual of a few drinks after work ...

Cult of Death

Beslan's terrorists show the dark side of human emotions

Ice-breaker...

Was reading a journal of mine from 1997, quite an interesting experience, and as I did this I came accross comments relating to dinner parties, and the question I am going to pose is this - You're arranging a dinner party, you can have any five guests to come (living or dead, real or fictional). Who would these five be and why?

For my list:

Paul.
I've always like his letters. Finding in him a great love for his brothers and sisters in Christ.

Bono
Because he is a fascinating man. Listening to some of his comments from various stages around the world, and reading the lyrics he writes with his band mates, it seems to me he is more intelligent than he lets on.

Robin Williams
if only to lighten the mood..

Chris Carter
While Chris was in my original list, I think now I'd be more likely to pick Aaron Sorokin, creator of The West Wing.

Rebecca St. James / Nichole Nordeman
I am a fan of their music. I think in the case of both these people their music is secondary to their witness for Christ. I admire the ministry of Rebecca. Partly because of spending time 'moderating' the chatroom, and Forum board I've seen it first hand.

+ As always, this list is subject to change. The first two are fairly automatic picks. Others that I'd like to include would be CS Lewis, Keith Green and the first time I did this list, I had Adolf Hitler in there as well.

Over to you dear readers.

A Cup of Tea at Yarramulla...

So, Australia will go to the polls on October 9. Howard said the central issue of the election, was trust, and the direction Australia will take over the next 10 years. In Howard's press conference he adapted a line from Ronald Reagan, a question that we all will ponder as we move toward the poll; Do you really believe Australia is better off now, than eight-and-a-half years ago?.

Speaking of trust, Philip Adams wrote an interesting piece in the Weekend Australian.

The Age, has an interesting piece about leadership and the differences between Howard, and Latham.

Howard will run on his record. Latham, is also focusing on truth and rebuilding the ladder of opportunity.

It is going to be a close election. Let’s hope for a positive campaign; a campaign that is about what the parties’ vision for the nation, and not the all too common negative slanging match.

Olympics

I was talking to some colleagues at work this week, about having an interest in an adjusted medal table. I would like to have adjusted the medal table for population, but also for % of GDP spent on sport.

For those of you who want an alternative medal tally.

... And we'll shine like stars in the summer night ...

Taking a moment, to update this post. U2, has a new CD due out currently untitled

But also the first single Vertigo is due for release to the radio at the end of September!, and to the stores November 8. One site now has the titles of a number of tracks. I am looking forward to new U2 music, and hopefully a tour in 2005.

But while surfing around the HMV site I also found out about Around the Sun

I also saw that Season 3, and Season 4 of The West Wing, are also due for release in October.

…We don’t need no education…

The Sydney Morning Herlad last week got me thinking about education a little. I am a product of the public education system, and at this point, should God chose to bless me with Children, they would likewise go through the public system.

In NSW, and I’m not sure if this is a national trend or strictly limited to NSW, but students are, along with teachers, and consequently resources draining towards the Private System.

I have to say that I find this deeply concerning, as I believe it is the responsibility of the government, (State, and Federal) to provide an education system. Perhaps this is another of my biases.

I am a product of the State System, and during my education I would say that I was not disadvantaged by that. I had the benefit of teachers who loved their jobs, a school that was reasonably well resourced. I was shaped through my education, and yes I believe I was taught pro-social values. And I reckon I’ve turned out ok.

The concern for me as I’ve been reading the papers over the last week is how our education system at least in NSW is moving towards creating structural inequality Those who attend public schools are gradually losing access to decent resources, and teachers for numerous reasons are more inclined to teach in the private system. With the range of selective schools around, a large proportion of students will be likely to lose their pro-social peers. Though I would not say that outcomes are solely determined by environment. I would say that significant disadvantages in terms of teachers, and resources, would have some impact on educational outcomes.

The public system can and does work. But we need the government to continue to make education one of its priority, and in my mind, we need to see the value ascribed to teaching as a profession increased, not simply through an increase in salary, though that may help, but in the conditions in the schools. The impression I have currently from both the government, and opposition – at both state and federal level is that Education is not area of great concern, even though the current generation of children are the builing blocks of tomorrow.

Over to you all. What is your view on Selective High Schools, the role and value of teachers? Public versus Private?

Update: Visit Joe, to read another angle on my post.

Holiday Reflections..

Thinking about including this in our church newsletter - let me know what you think ...

===

Waiting, waiting is one of the gifts travelling brings. Waiting comes in many guises, the nervous, exciting, waiting, as you wait in line to leave, wait to meet friends, wait to see attractions, the list can and does go on.

Waiting also comes through delays. Ask any commuter, the worst sort of waiting, is unexplained.

Time spent waiting, is time that disappears. Waiting tries our patience, as this time is wasted, this is time we do not get back. this is time we often spend complaining.

But the time that we spend waiting we can use much more fruitfully, as you travel you see people use this time, through reading the paper, the latest book, catching up with friends, through either a SMS, or phone call.

Let's think how else time spent waiting could be used. We could use this time to write, to keep a journal of our thoughts, feelings; and evaluate every heartbeat of our lives. We could also use these moments to speak with our maker, as we see people talk with their friends. The writer to the Hebrews reminds us that we can approach our God with confidence. (That’s not to say we should approach God lightly, or easily)

But let’s move beyond this – waiting is a part of the human condition, as we wait for guidance, we wait for our season of singleness to end, but more significantly we await our Lord’s return.

As we wait, what should characterise our lives, what should our lives look like? Let’s turn to a few passages for guidance.

First in Psalm 90 we are to consider that our lives like the wisp of the wind, we are born, and our lives ends as suddenly as a gust of wind fades away. Therefore, we should redeem the time; we should make the most of the minutes, hours, and days that we have been given by God.

Secondly, a recurring theme of Jesus’ parables [Matthew 24 to 26] is that His return will come as a thief in the night, without warning, unheralded and unexpectedly. Jesus in these parable teaches us to be watchful, to be prepared, and to be ready for His return.

Think about it this way. If you knew your hero was coming to your home for dinner, you would long before she or he, was due to arrive would begin preparing for their arrive, you would clear out the rubbish, and would prepare to cook their favourite meal. Likewise, as we prepare for Our Lord’s return, we should seek to remove the junk from our lives, and seek to show the fruit of His spirit.

Finally in 1 Peter 4:7, we learn we should be people who are living Holy, and Self-controlled lives. We should strive to be chasing after God with each, and every heartbeat of our lives.

As we wait for the train, bus, or plane, we should be patient, and dwelling on the Word of God.

As we wait as singles, we should continue to live as the bride of Christ.

As we wait for our Lord’s return, we strive to be found seeking His will, and redeeming the time we are given.

As we wait, we should patiently live each day striving with all that we are, and with all that we have to be loyal and willing shining lights for Christ, to the Glory and praise of God.

+++

[Platform 1, Central Station, Brisbane, waiting for the 9:56am train to the Gold Coast, which, for the record, was on time]

+++

Watching time, silently dissappear

Well, another weekend has come and gone. The weekend seemed to disappear completely before it has started. I went down to Wollongong for the weekend. I hung around in Sydney for Friday night, we went out to an Ice Creamery for desert and then some of the crowd went to the movies. The majority saw Man on Fire. Didn’t seem like my cup of tea.

Saturday morning I watched virtually the finale of the opening ceremony of the Olympic Games. I did enjoy the bits of the Ceremony that I saw.

I then caught the train down to Wollongong. I deeply love this train trip. Saturday was really special, the train winds its way through the Royal National Park, and then comes out and skirts the coast. What really struck me as we travelled along the coast was how calm and placid the sea was and the colours were amazing. Unfortunately my camera was in Sydney, but it was inspiring.

It was night also to catch up with my old church family. We went round to these friends place, and played a game called Cranium, its kind of like trivial pursuit, but uses different manners of questions – you need to sculpt using play-do, do charades, hum particular songs. It was great fun.

My brother was also preaching at my old church over the weekend, it was his first sermon, so I stayed down there and went to church. It is an enormous blessing that even though I’ve been away for a while, I still feel part of that family. I treasure the relationships I have there, I love going back. It was a communion service as well, which was great, as I haven’t had communion in my new church. (in almost 18 months).

Heres’ my notes from the Sermon:

Sunday Aug 15, 2004 AD – OT Psalm 30 and NT James 1:19-27

We have a new birth, new destiny, we are kings
b/c we are kings we should act like kings. (v21; v27)
We have forgotten our destiny

James gives us advice to help us live like kings

Quick – to listen
Slow – to speak; slower to become angry
Though there is a righteous anger; our anger makes it harder to be righteous

We can, and must cast out the sin of our life – this is a life-long process

God’s word has been planted in our hearts

Both righteousness and evil can grow in our hearts – depends on what we nurture.

Tension - grace and works – God’s work and ours – James comes back to this.

Look at the Word; see how it applies; act, change in light of it

We need to put away; the rampant wickedness in our lives; and humble seek to live out our destiny.

We are Kings – we were made kings by Christ’s death. We are to ACT like it.

++

Challenging words … and in God’s mercy, may they be fulfilled in all our lives.

The Revelation of John

In my bible study at Unichurch we are looking at the book of Revelation, and using the Matthias Media study guides. Last night we looked through the Letters to the Seven churches.

In the book there is this helpful summary of the messages to the seven churches:

If you have zeal without love - recover your love
If you are faithful but fearful - endure suffering for the crown of life which awaits you.
If you are seduced by false teaching and immorality - repent
If you are lazy, asleep or dead in your faith - wake up come back to life;
If you are feeling weak and weary in your faith - remember that you will be rewarded and protected;
If your obedience is lukewarm and you are complacent in faith - turn back and find your 'wealth' in Jesus.

During study, we had a refreshing conversation about our church, our failing is to love the knowledge of Jesus, and not love our brothers and sisters. Coming back to the idea of community, and true community, is not about meeting together on Sunday, or on Wednesday as we did last night. Its about an attitude of heart, seeking to get to know, and encourage each other to grow in Godliness.

From the papers ...

Men have often been mystified by women's close friendships. Now there's a scientific explanation, reports Lisa Reich.

An interesting piece on the significance of close friendships in our lifecourse.

+++

By the by, I've made a few changes to this pond. Hopefully, in the next few days I'll get a chance to add commenting. I've had a quick look at the blogger provided comments, and I'm not too keen. Anyway, this is a learning process for me, as I am not all that good with html and the like, but yeah it is good to push yourself every now and again.

In other news, it's back to the netball court tonight, which should be fun. I played in a mixed team for the first time last session, we had a great deal of fun together. Yeah, I am looking forward to playing rather than watching some sport.

The other thing to expect in the next few days, is further reflections on my time in Brisbane, and a comment or two on the Public/Private School Education debate that is currently featuring in the Sydney Morning Herald this week.