Was listening to the Night Life on 702 (ABC, Sydney) and heard a very interesting discussion with Clive Hamilton and Richard Deniss from The Australia Institute. They were talking about their new book, Affluenza, is loosely translated as a disorder of over consumption, and materialism. They also spoke with a man who had “downshifted” or “right-shifted”. That is a man who gone from a job with longer hours, and greater pay, to a less paying job.
The cure of Affluenza, is not spending less money, but perhaps buying less and enjoying what you buy more. Like Growth Fetish, it attempts to discredit the assumption that economic growth is good.
A couple of things intrigued me. While teachers and nurses are often listed as more important professions, this is not balanced with the numbers heading in to study in these areas, and is probably a reflection of the remuneration for the job. The conversation also turned to advertising and how the best paid psychologists end up in marketing, convincing us to buy what we don’t need. (They used the example of drug companies, creating anxieties of new diseases, that we would buy their drugs). Also, back to the advertising, one comment they made that didn’t quite sit right was how they mentioned post-modernism being great as it teaches us to deconstruct what we view – not sure we should credit postmodernism for that. Seems like a good idea to watch the TV with your kids, and make them ad aware, or at least aware of the psychological tactics advertising companies use.
They made an interesting point about the punitive measures used against those who are poor. The wealthier we are, the more likely we will see those who aren’t as not pulling their weight. That is, they will be scapegoats. And I think its not that we care less about those who are disadvantaged, but that the reinforcement of our consumer lifestyles is greater.
Interestingly more people are fighting against the trend of materialism, and these stories are detailed in their book, and their motivation is not necessarily based in religious persuasions.
I found the interview one of the more enlightening I’ve heard for a while, and I do look forward to reading the book at some point. Also was interesting to have a look at The Wellbeing Manifesto, while not endorsing it, I found it made some interesting points.
Some reflections on the Path to Life. "You have made known to me the path of life; you fill me with joy in your presence" (Psalm 16:11)
Thursday, June 23, 2005
Monday, June 20, 2005
A new blog on the block.
So, by popular demand, the F# blog (aka: my flat's blog) is now linked. Venture there at your own risk. All sorts of craziness will be revealed.
Tunes ...
Recently I borrowed The Arcade Fire's Funeral off Guan. I really love the lyrics of the the CD, this is one that stood out for me.
The Arcade Fire - Wake Up
The Arcade Fire - Wake Up
Somethin’ filled up
my heart with nothin’,
someone told me not to cry.
But now that I’m older,
my heart’s colder,
and I can see that it’s a lie.
Children wake up,
hold your mistake up,
before they turn the summer into dust.
If the children don’t grow up,
our bodies get bigger but our hearts get torn up.
We’re just a million little god’s causin rain storms turnin’ every good thing to rust.
I guess we’ll just have to adjust.
With my lighnin’ bolts a glowin’
I can see where I am goin’ to be
when the reaper he reaches and touches my hand.
With my lighnin’ bolts a glowin’
I can see where I am goin’
With my lighnin’ bolts a glowin’
I can see where I am go-goin’
You better look out below!
Sunday, June 19, 2005
Mr and Mrs Smith
Went and saw the new Jollie, Pitt movie Mr and Mrs Smith. The premise is simple, two professional assassins married to each other; but hiding their ‘job’ from each other. A contract is bungled, and then of course the have to kill each other, (needless to say they fall in love with each other, again). One does wonder though, if five (or six) years later, would there relationship be in a similar state.
Not much special about the film. The script isn’t brilliant. A few funny moments, in a film that doesn’t take itself too seriously. Oh, I could read little bits and pieces into it, see, Pitt, lowers his gun first, and another moment, Jollie’s character accidentally hits Pitt, while throwing knives at would be assassins, and of course the metaphor of trying to kill each other, and marriage.
All in all – if you’re in need to a mind free movie, this one’s for you. But it didn’t really leave much of an impression on me.
+ + +
Perfectionism…
Caught this in the paper today, Australia it seems, is turning into a nation of perfectionists.
I wonder if as Christians we suffer from the same issue – recall Matthew 5:48 – Be perfect just as your Heavenly Father is perfect.
Does this give us similarly lofty goals in our Christian walk – paid ministry work, bible study leader, or missionary worker? Likewise, when we look at our Pastors and MTS trainers, we see people who are unlike us. The article makes the link, between those who seek perfection, and low self esteem, it would be interesting having a look at religion and self esteem. The tension, between faith and works, would play in interesting role in this too, tying into to Romans 7, perhaps.
I’ve spoken here before about my thoughts and desires about ministry. There is a lot that appeals to me about working for the church, and teaching people about my Heavenly Father, but having said that, I also have anxiety about whether or not I’m suited to that, and the “burden” of faithfully working out, and teaching the Word of God.
Another curiosity I have about the University ministry is do we push people into MTS, or and make paid-ministry into a lofty goal.
But moving away from the church, our society too seeks perfection – cosmetically, consider the number of renovation shows (be it makeover of appearance, of your home, of your garden), but all of which fail to deal with the roots of what is making us unhappy.
Ok, lets say Australia is turning into a nation of perfectionists, driven to accumulate maximum wealth and achieve increasingly lofty goals – [And perhaps, we as Christians are likewise pushing people to consider ministry as the lofty goal, and all else – secondary].
‘Identifying the tendency is a very helpful thing. Challenge it, resistance isn't futile.’
+ + +
Was reminded about why I love sport. Last night, Bangladesh beat Australia in a game of cricket. Yes it was 50 overs, but still, given all the talk on the radio was that Australia would annihilate Bangladesh, it is an incredible result. As is the fact Australia’s soccer team could score 5 goals, and fail to win a game (true, the games were against Germany, and Argentina).
Not much special about the film. The script isn’t brilliant. A few funny moments, in a film that doesn’t take itself too seriously. Oh, I could read little bits and pieces into it, see, Pitt, lowers his gun first, and another moment, Jollie’s character accidentally hits Pitt, while throwing knives at would be assassins, and of course the metaphor of trying to kill each other, and marriage.
All in all – if you’re in need to a mind free movie, this one’s for you. But it didn’t really leave much of an impression on me.
+ + +
Perfectionism…
Caught this in the paper today, Australia it seems, is turning into a nation of perfectionists.
I wonder if as Christians we suffer from the same issue – recall Matthew 5:48 – Be perfect just as your Heavenly Father is perfect.
Does this give us similarly lofty goals in our Christian walk – paid ministry work, bible study leader, or missionary worker? Likewise, when we look at our Pastors and MTS trainers, we see people who are unlike us. The article makes the link, between those who seek perfection, and low self esteem, it would be interesting having a look at religion and self esteem. The tension, between faith and works, would play in interesting role in this too, tying into to Romans 7, perhaps.
I’ve spoken here before about my thoughts and desires about ministry. There is a lot that appeals to me about working for the church, and teaching people about my Heavenly Father, but having said that, I also have anxiety about whether or not I’m suited to that, and the “burden” of faithfully working out, and teaching the Word of God.
Another curiosity I have about the University ministry is do we push people into MTS, or and make paid-ministry into a lofty goal.
But moving away from the church, our society too seeks perfection – cosmetically, consider the number of renovation shows (be it makeover of appearance, of your home, of your garden), but all of which fail to deal with the roots of what is making us unhappy.
Ok, lets say Australia is turning into a nation of perfectionists, driven to accumulate maximum wealth and achieve increasingly lofty goals – [And perhaps, we as Christians are likewise pushing people to consider ministry as the lofty goal, and all else – secondary].
‘Identifying the tendency is a very helpful thing. Challenge it, resistance isn't futile.’
+ + +
Was reminded about why I love sport. Last night, Bangladesh beat Australia in a game of cricket. Yes it was 50 overs, but still, given all the talk on the radio was that Australia would annihilate Bangladesh, it is an incredible result. As is the fact Australia’s soccer team could score 5 goals, and fail to win a game (true, the games were against Germany, and Argentina).
Saturday, June 18, 2005
T-minus seven days (and yes counting is involved) …
In about seven days times, I will jump courtesy of Freedom across the ditch to New Zealand, and to Dunedin. I always love flying to New Zealand it is like a sort of homecoming. I mean I do live in Australia, and feel home here, but there’s something extra-special about New Zealand.
I’m heading back for my grandmother’s 90th Birthday. Yes, I have to admit that I’m not as close to her as I would like. I’m taking opportunity now to write a few reflections. But I wish I knew her better.
I remember going down to visit Dunedin, and we would always have a walk together. I also remember the fact that we would always receive a phone call on our birthdays; she was interested in hearing what we were up to, where we were heading. I feel doubly blessed, in that she raised my father, and aunts, and uncles, all of whom I treasure. [I know I don’t say that often enough, but I know it is true]. In some ways I have found it hard thinking about special stories, and incidents, because each time we visited her it felt special. I won’t forget staying with her just after I finished my High School, and just have meals, and spend quality time with her.
+++
Personally though, this trip has come at just the right time. I am absolutely scattered from organising the move (and dealing with the ‘fall-out’), was blessed by having a great colleague, who was priceless in terms of keeping me sane, and did way more than realistically she should have been expected of doing.
It is going to be great to get away from the office, and have a change of scenery for four so days. Will be great to see the cousins as well, though, once I get back it’s three-or-so weeks until the Conference I’m organising at work.
+++
It was with pleasure I read the SMH this morning and how the Liberal Government is now changing their policy relating to refugees. While not an abolishment of Mandatory Detention, it is a step forward. Though now I would like to hear an apology (especially if the majority of those on TPV end up being granted asylum), for the damage has been done.
I’m heading back for my grandmother’s 90th Birthday. Yes, I have to admit that I’m not as close to her as I would like. I’m taking opportunity now to write a few reflections. But I wish I knew her better.
I remember going down to visit Dunedin, and we would always have a walk together. I also remember the fact that we would always receive a phone call on our birthdays; she was interested in hearing what we were up to, where we were heading. I feel doubly blessed, in that she raised my father, and aunts, and uncles, all of whom I treasure. [I know I don’t say that often enough, but I know it is true]. In some ways I have found it hard thinking about special stories, and incidents, because each time we visited her it felt special. I won’t forget staying with her just after I finished my High School, and just have meals, and spend quality time with her.
+++
Personally though, this trip has come at just the right time. I am absolutely scattered from organising the move (and dealing with the ‘fall-out’), was blessed by having a great colleague, who was priceless in terms of keeping me sane, and did way more than realistically she should have been expected of doing.
It is going to be great to get away from the office, and have a change of scenery for four so days. Will be great to see the cousins as well, though, once I get back it’s three-or-so weeks until the Conference I’m organising at work.
+++
It was with pleasure I read the SMH this morning and how the Liberal Government is now changing their policy relating to refugees. While not an abolishment of Mandatory Detention, it is a step forward. Though now I would like to hear an apology (especially if the majority of those on TPV end up being granted asylum), for the damage has been done.
Wednesday, June 15, 2005
On Marriage ...
Okay, I’ve been reading my brothers blog, and wanted to repost my comments here.
Firstly, I do have to say that I’m not sure that I agree with a number of posters about marriage. (I’ve posted this, which talks about how I see marriage). I also would say here, that the way marriage is enacted in the world does not devalue it. Throughout the Old Testament the Covenant, (read promise) between God and Mankind is illustrated with marriage (read, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, Hosea, to name a few). Put simply, celebrity x, marrying celebrating y (for a period of z hours) does not devalue the promise on another’s wedding day. Yes, I would love to see my “partner” be “a princess for a day”, (like she isn’t a princess already). But that’s not what marriage is about. That’s the wedding, by way of an analogy, the tip of the iceberg. Yes it is a promise we would be making to each other, witnessed by God, friends and families, but it’s a promise for the future, it is a promise that describes what we feel, but at the same time talks of the commitment we would share through the circumstances of life, for better, worse, sickness, health, poverty and riches. Why wouldn’t you want to make this public?
Like a number of those who have posted I would not live with my partner before marriage, this is a personal decision. I have not found an explicit bible verse that could be used to condemn people living together before they are married. (Mind you, I don’t believe we should condemn those who do. Though I would discourage them from it, for what I can only label personal reasons). To be honest, I am not sure of the arguments relating to “leading others into temptation” actually works. But I will need to think about it.
[Corrected Link]
Firstly, I do have to say that I’m not sure that I agree with a number of posters about marriage. (I’ve posted this, which talks about how I see marriage). I also would say here, that the way marriage is enacted in the world does not devalue it. Throughout the Old Testament the Covenant, (read promise) between God and Mankind is illustrated with marriage (read, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, Hosea, to name a few). Put simply, celebrity x, marrying celebrating y (for a period of z hours) does not devalue the promise on another’s wedding day. Yes, I would love to see my “partner” be “a princess for a day”, (like she isn’t a princess already). But that’s not what marriage is about. That’s the wedding, by way of an analogy, the tip of the iceberg. Yes it is a promise we would be making to each other, witnessed by God, friends and families, but it’s a promise for the future, it is a promise that describes what we feel, but at the same time talks of the commitment we would share through the circumstances of life, for better, worse, sickness, health, poverty and riches. Why wouldn’t you want to make this public?
Like a number of those who have posted I would not live with my partner before marriage, this is a personal decision. I have not found an explicit bible verse that could be used to condemn people living together before they are married. (Mind you, I don’t believe we should condemn those who do. Though I would discourage them from it, for what I can only label personal reasons). To be honest, I am not sure of the arguments relating to “leading others into temptation” actually works. But I will need to think about it.
[Corrected Link]
Monday, June 13, 2005
Looking back ...
Today is a holiday, and I'm in Como - no, no not in Italy (though my parents were in Italy). I'm spending time over this the long weekend in June playing computer games (Warcraft III - Frozen Thrones) with some friends. Its been great fun. (Especially seeing as the rest of the weekend (virtually) I've been at work.
I realised last night that its been two years since I've started this blog. In that two years, I've have strengthened some friendships with people I knew IRL, and I've made some new friends through writing. More importantly I hope and pray that my entries have honoured God.
Two years ago, I'd just moved out of home, and living with Gaz, and Greg; I was not full time or on contract at work. Now, following on my move to Sydney, work has moved closer to me. (go figure!). (Aside: Like all moves, I suspect, it has not been as good as I hoped, or as bad as I feared, and of course there will be issues tomorrow, but today its not for those. I feel a litte more comfortable in the Unichurch environment, while retaining some questions about the nature and structure of ministry on Campus. Put simply one of the issues I have struggled with is the model of a homogenious ministry - ie, mostly uni students ministering to university students (as an example).
How have I changed over the last two years. In one way I think I've realised that this job while interesting is not something I would like to spend a great deal of my life doing. Perhaps more broadly, I'm not sure what I what to be doing, what I am really passionate about. Oh, I've got a couple of options, but I'm not sure I've got a mechanism at present to make a choice here.
Realising its the 13th today, means that Friday week, I will be off to New Zealand, to celebrate my grandmother's 90th, and needless to say along with the joy of celebrating with family this milestone, it will be great to have a change of scenary.
+++
As an aside, one thing that I've really been wondering about for a while is what Matthew 7:1-6 (Actually, perhaps we should all read Matthew 5-7), means when it says "Don't judge, or you too will be judged ... with the measure you use you will be measured". I've heard so many Christians respond with this when confronted about sin in there lives say this in response. In effect to any comment saying "Who are you to judge". TO a degree I understand what they are saying ~ but at the same time, in Galatians 6:1-5, I we are called to restore those who stumble. Only thoughts I really have now is that I believe that the manner we comment is important; but we should be concerned for our brothers and sisters. We should be careful not to condemn, as that is God's job. Our call is to speak the truth, in, and with love. Love does not and perhaps can not lead to indifference. For its not hate that is the opposite of love, indifference is.
Anyway, just a couple of random thoughts. As always, I'm not convinced I've got this right, so over to you for comments.
+++
Alrighty, lunch now and then back to computer games. :)
[Edited for Clarity]
I realised last night that its been two years since I've started this blog. In that two years, I've have strengthened some friendships with people I knew IRL, and I've made some new friends through writing. More importantly I hope and pray that my entries have honoured God.
Two years ago, I'd just moved out of home, and living with Gaz, and Greg; I was not full time or on contract at work. Now, following on my move to Sydney, work has moved closer to me. (go figure!). (Aside: Like all moves, I suspect, it has not been as good as I hoped, or as bad as I feared, and of course there will be issues tomorrow, but today its not for those. I feel a litte more comfortable in the Unichurch environment, while retaining some questions about the nature and structure of ministry on Campus. Put simply one of the issues I have struggled with is the model of a homogenious ministry - ie, mostly uni students ministering to university students (as an example).
How have I changed over the last two years. In one way I think I've realised that this job while interesting is not something I would like to spend a great deal of my life doing. Perhaps more broadly, I'm not sure what I what to be doing, what I am really passionate about. Oh, I've got a couple of options, but I'm not sure I've got a mechanism at present to make a choice here.
Realising its the 13th today, means that Friday week, I will be off to New Zealand, to celebrate my grandmother's 90th, and needless to say along with the joy of celebrating with family this milestone, it will be great to have a change of scenary.
+++
As an aside, one thing that I've really been wondering about for a while is what Matthew 7:1-6 (Actually, perhaps we should all read Matthew 5-7), means when it says "Don't judge, or you too will be judged ... with the measure you use you will be measured". I've heard so many Christians respond with this when confronted about sin in there lives say this in response. In effect to any comment saying "Who are you to judge". TO a degree I understand what they are saying ~ but at the same time, in Galatians 6:1-5, I we are called to restore those who stumble. Only thoughts I really have now is that I believe that the manner we comment is important; but we should be concerned for our brothers and sisters. We should be careful not to condemn, as that is God's job. Our call is to speak the truth, in, and with love. Love does not and perhaps can not lead to indifference. For its not hate that is the opposite of love, indifference is.
Anyway, just a couple of random thoughts. As always, I'm not convinced I've got this right, so over to you for comments.
+++
Alrighty, lunch now and then back to computer games. :)
[Edited for Clarity]
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