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| From Helen and Dug... |
Sunday, December 24, 2006
Thursday, November 30, 2006
Bits and pieces
Just thought that I'd let you know that all is coming together for Saturday :-)
Here are a few things that I've looked at briefly during this week;
Ross Gittins on P-v-y. (more information is here)
The Picture of Spiritual life in Australia
Anyway, I'll get back to these, and some year in review posts in a little while.
Here are a few things that I've looked at briefly during this week;
Ross Gittins on P-v-y. (more information is here)
The Picture of Spiritual life in Australia
Anyway, I'll get back to these, and some year in review posts in a little while.
Friday, November 24, 2006
Sunday, November 19, 2006
Make Poverty History
Last year, eight concerts were held around the world with some of the worlds biggest bands and artists, including Pink Floyd, The Who, The Killers, Coldplay and U2. All took to the stage with the same goal – to make poverty history. Friday night in Melbourne a number of Australia’s biggest music artists took to the stage with the same goal to make poverty history. The gig on Friday began with members of U2 and Pearl Jam combining (U-Jam?) on stage to play a powerful, passionate and inspiring cover of Neil Young’s ‘Rocking in the Free World’.
It is a hard road; it began with music, but the music plays second fiddle to action. We have currency; our values, our voice and our vote. We have an argument, and it is with this argument we should lobby our leaders. It is saddening watching the news and coverage focusing on what protesters did and will do rather than hearing about the argument, and the issues.
From stages across the world, over the last eighteen months Bono has spoken passionately and powerfully about our potential to act and to make a difference. In the concerts he doesn’t ask money, he asked for their voice and for action. Action which begins for me, by lobbying our government to increase aid.
We can afford to, it is not about charity; it is about justice. We have been given much, and I believe we therefore should give much.
Darfur
About 13 years ago, a rock band essentially took a TV station out on tour (ZooTV tour, 1992-1993), and in a series of dates hooked up with Sarajevo and drew attention to what was happening. After realising what had happened, the world said never again. After watching the genocide in Rwanda, we said never again.
Our world is looking on a similar crisis in Darfur and is inactive again. Our leaders need currency, and courage to act. We are not helpless and should not simply watch again, we can provide currency by speaking out. Nicholas Kristof from the New York Times speaks about the current situation and gives a few ideas about what could be done. If not now, when?
It is a hard road; it began with music, but the music plays second fiddle to action. We have currency; our values, our voice and our vote. We have an argument, and it is with this argument we should lobby our leaders. It is saddening watching the news and coverage focusing on what protesters did and will do rather than hearing about the argument, and the issues.
From stages across the world, over the last eighteen months Bono has spoken passionately and powerfully about our potential to act and to make a difference. In the concerts he doesn’t ask money, he asked for their voice and for action. Action which begins for me, by lobbying our government to increase aid.
We can afford to, it is not about charity; it is about justice. We have been given much, and I believe we therefore should give much.
Darfur
About 13 years ago, a rock band essentially took a TV station out on tour (ZooTV tour, 1992-1993), and in a series of dates hooked up with Sarajevo and drew attention to what was happening. After realising what had happened, the world said never again. After watching the genocide in Rwanda, we said never again.
Our world is looking on a similar crisis in Darfur and is inactive again. Our leaders need currency, and courage to act. We are not helpless and should not simply watch again, we can provide currency by speaking out. Nicholas Kristof from the New York Times speaks about the current situation and gives a few ideas about what could be done. If not now, when?
... I know that this is not goodbye ...
// U2
// Sydney Nov 11, 2006, Telstra Stadium
// Support: Kanye West
// City of Blinding Lights / Vertigo (She Loves You) / Elevation (Spinning Around) / Until the End of the World / New Year’s Day / Beautiful Day (Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band, Blackbird) / I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For (In a Little While) / Stuck in a Moment You Can’t Get Out Of / Sometimes You Can’t Make it On Your Own / Love and Peace or Else / Sunday Bloody Sunday / Bullet the Blue Sky (Johnny Comes Marching Home-The Hands that Built America) / Miss Sarajevo / Pride (In the Name of Love) / Where the Streets Have No Name (All You Need is Love) / One (My Sweet Lord) ///
// Zoo Station / The Fly / With or Without You (Never Tear Us Apart-Love Will Tear Us Apart) ///
// The Saints are Coming / Desire (Not Fade Away-Gold Digger) / Kite //
It was different experiencing the Vertigo Tour in an outdoor setting. The quality of the sound was not as bad as I had thought it might be, but I guess the sound may be related to where you are. The seats were actually better than I had expected and were a great vantage point from which we saw the band get back into the cars at the end of the concert. I now get goose-bumps every time I hear Wake Up (The Arcade Fire).
The biggest difference for the Pacific Leg of the tour and perhaps no surprise is the number of songs from ‘All that You Can’t Leave Behind’ returning to the set. So far, Kite, Stuck in a Moment, In a Little While (a snippet) and Walk On (sadly not for our show) have been added to the staples Beautiful Day and Elevation), and that they are playing The Saints are Coming (a cover of The Skids song). I found it interesting that there were only four songs played from How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb.
One of the highlights of seeing U2 live is hearing how they combine songs (if you’ve seen the bands ZooTV and PopMart videos you’ll know what I mean), and the various snippets of other songs that Bono sings, for example he previously has included Love Will Tear Us Apart (Joy Division) in With or Without You and Amazing Grace (in Running to Stand Still on the Vertigo Tour and previously in The Electric Co.).
A word about Kanye West, I was not that taken with him. Perhaps it was because we came in about half way through his performance, but his mix didn’t really help. Hearing him in a stadium is not the best way to be introduced to his music.
U2 opened the show with City of Blinding Lights; Bono came on stage wrapped in an Australian flag. Vertigo followed next and was an energetic affair concluding with a snippet of the Beatles’ She Loves You. Elevation was a great; from our vantage point it was awesome watching the crowd bounce around, (the song concluded with a bit of Spinning Around).
Following the combination of Until the End of World and New Year’s Day, was a strong version of Beautiful Day, finishing with snippets of Sgt. Peppers’ Lonely Hearts Club Band and Blackbird.
During the introduction to I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For, Bono spoke about how all the family was doing very well tonight, and I think he said the Edge’s family was at the concert. After a brief snippet of In A Little While, the band dedicated Stuck in a Moment to Michael Hutchence, and followed that with Sometimes You Can’t Make it On Your Own.
The section from Love and Peace to One; is perhaps the sermon section of the concert. Love and Peace or Else is growing on me. Bono dedicated Sunday Bloody Sunday to those who lost their lives in Bali said his prayer was that we do not to become a monster to defeat the monster. I quite liked the new arrangement of Bullet the Blue Sky. The three songs Love and Peace, Sunday and Bullet flow beautifully into each other, and a stunning Miss Sarajevo tops it off. Miss Sarajevo was dedicated to those Australians serving overseas in Iraq. Every time I hear Bono sing the part usually performed by Pavarotti, I am blown away. I have to admit, this was a song that I thought might have been dropped for our leg of the tour. But as I found in the US, people would talk or talk bathroom breaks during this song. (Note: I think it is worth buying the deluxe version of U2-Eighteen for the DVD containing Miss Sarajevo and Original of the Species alone).
The African trilogy (Pride, Where the Streets Have No Name and One), followed and flowed from the reading of the Declaration of Human rights. Where the Streets Have No Name was fantastic as always. I quite liked the beginning where flags from the African continent scrolled down the screen and ended with the Southern Cross on the screen. The effect of having the mobile phones lit during One is beautiful.
The first encore pairing of Zoo Station and The Fly was amazing (both songs I hadn’t heard last year, but were otherwise played regularly). Like during Zoo TV, words, sentences and ideas flashed on the screen. After seeing those two songs I was reminded how great it would have been to see them during the Zoo TV tour. The first encore concluded with a beautiful version of With or Without You, (though I don’t remember Bono dancing with anyone?)
The second and final encore featured U2’s recent song – The Saints are Coming, (a rough and fun version of) Desire. The concert closed with a stunning version of Kite (dedicated to Cate Blanchett and featuring Tim Moriaity on didgeridoo). Although I knew the band had rehearsed it I was still surprised to hear it closing the concert. Seeing the kite lift off as the band concluded was awesome, (and they did say they’ll be back~!)
Overall, it was an excellent show. I think next time I’ll try and get tickets closer to the stage. I was intrigued that the older songs that got the loudest reactions. Bono did seem a little quieter than usual. Another thing that I quite like about U2 is throughout their career the meanings of their songs continue to evolve and can speak to people in different ways, at different times.
Sydney was the third show on the Vertigo tour I’ve seen. Each of the shows stood out for different reasons. Miami featured an acoustic version of Who’s Gonna Ride Your Wild Horses, Miracle Drug, and the most songs from How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb (7), Sydney had the least (4), but included Stuck in a Moment (which I had heard acoustically in the two US shows) and The Fly, and Kite. The New York show included a cover of Instant Karma, the beautiful Original of the Species and finished with Bad. But I think push come to shove, the 11.21 show in New York was the strongest and most emotional for me. For those who are interested in set lists:
Miami: 11-13-05
City of Blinding Lights / Vertigo / Elevation / Mysterious Ways / Until the End of the Word / I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For – In A Little While / Beautiful Day / Miracle Drug / Sometimes You Can’t Make it on Your Own / Love and Peace or Else / Sunday Bloody Sunday / Bullet the Blue Sky / Miss Sarajevo / Pride (In the Name of Love) / Where the Streets Have No Name / One ///
// Stuck in a Moment You Can’t Get Out Of / Who’s Gonna Ride Your Wild Horses / With or Without You ///
// All Because of You / Yahweh / 40.
New York 11-21-05
City of Blinding Lights / Vertigo / Elevation / I Will Follow / I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For – In A Little While / Beautiful Day / Original of the Species / Sometimes You Can’t Make it On Your Own / Love and Peace or Else / Sunday Bloody Sunday / Bullet the Blue Sky / Miss Sarajevo / Pride (in the Name of Love) / Where the Streets Have No Name / One-Ol’ Man River ///
// Until the End of the World / Mysterious Ways / With or Without You-White Flag-Love Will Tear Us Apart ///
// The First Time / Stuck in a Moment You Can’t Get out Of / Instant Karma! (w/ Patti Smith) / Bad–People got the Power //
// Sydney Nov 11, 2006, Telstra Stadium
// Support: Kanye West
// City of Blinding Lights / Vertigo (She Loves You) / Elevation (Spinning Around) / Until the End of the World / New Year’s Day / Beautiful Day (Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band, Blackbird) / I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For (In a Little While) / Stuck in a Moment You Can’t Get Out Of / Sometimes You Can’t Make it On Your Own / Love and Peace or Else / Sunday Bloody Sunday / Bullet the Blue Sky (Johnny Comes Marching Home-The Hands that Built America) / Miss Sarajevo / Pride (In the Name of Love) / Where the Streets Have No Name (All You Need is Love) / One (My Sweet Lord) ///
// Zoo Station / The Fly / With or Without You (Never Tear Us Apart-Love Will Tear Us Apart) ///
// The Saints are Coming / Desire (Not Fade Away-Gold Digger) / Kite //
It was different experiencing the Vertigo Tour in an outdoor setting. The quality of the sound was not as bad as I had thought it might be, but I guess the sound may be related to where you are. The seats were actually better than I had expected and were a great vantage point from which we saw the band get back into the cars at the end of the concert. I now get goose-bumps every time I hear Wake Up (The Arcade Fire).
The biggest difference for the Pacific Leg of the tour and perhaps no surprise is the number of songs from ‘All that You Can’t Leave Behind’ returning to the set. So far, Kite, Stuck in a Moment, In a Little While (a snippet) and Walk On (sadly not for our show) have been added to the staples Beautiful Day and Elevation), and that they are playing The Saints are Coming (a cover of The Skids song). I found it interesting that there were only four songs played from How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb.
One of the highlights of seeing U2 live is hearing how they combine songs (if you’ve seen the bands ZooTV and PopMart videos you’ll know what I mean), and the various snippets of other songs that Bono sings, for example he previously has included Love Will Tear Us Apart (Joy Division) in With or Without You and Amazing Grace (in Running to Stand Still on the Vertigo Tour and previously in The Electric Co.).
A word about Kanye West, I was not that taken with him. Perhaps it was because we came in about half way through his performance, but his mix didn’t really help. Hearing him in a stadium is not the best way to be introduced to his music.
U2 opened the show with City of Blinding Lights; Bono came on stage wrapped in an Australian flag. Vertigo followed next and was an energetic affair concluding with a snippet of the Beatles’ She Loves You. Elevation was a great; from our vantage point it was awesome watching the crowd bounce around, (the song concluded with a bit of Spinning Around).
Following the combination of Until the End of World and New Year’s Day, was a strong version of Beautiful Day, finishing with snippets of Sgt. Peppers’ Lonely Hearts Club Band and Blackbird.
During the introduction to I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For, Bono spoke about how all the family was doing very well tonight, and I think he said the Edge’s family was at the concert. After a brief snippet of In A Little While, the band dedicated Stuck in a Moment to Michael Hutchence, and followed that with Sometimes You Can’t Make it On Your Own.
The section from Love and Peace to One; is perhaps the sermon section of the concert. Love and Peace or Else is growing on me. Bono dedicated Sunday Bloody Sunday to those who lost their lives in Bali said his prayer was that we do not to become a monster to defeat the monster. I quite liked the new arrangement of Bullet the Blue Sky. The three songs Love and Peace, Sunday and Bullet flow beautifully into each other, and a stunning Miss Sarajevo tops it off. Miss Sarajevo was dedicated to those Australians serving overseas in Iraq. Every time I hear Bono sing the part usually performed by Pavarotti, I am blown away. I have to admit, this was a song that I thought might have been dropped for our leg of the tour. But as I found in the US, people would talk or talk bathroom breaks during this song. (Note: I think it is worth buying the deluxe version of U2-Eighteen for the DVD containing Miss Sarajevo and Original of the Species alone).
The African trilogy (Pride, Where the Streets Have No Name and One), followed and flowed from the reading of the Declaration of Human rights. Where the Streets Have No Name was fantastic as always. I quite liked the beginning where flags from the African continent scrolled down the screen and ended with the Southern Cross on the screen. The effect of having the mobile phones lit during One is beautiful.
The first encore pairing of Zoo Station and The Fly was amazing (both songs I hadn’t heard last year, but were otherwise played regularly). Like during Zoo TV, words, sentences and ideas flashed on the screen. After seeing those two songs I was reminded how great it would have been to see them during the Zoo TV tour. The first encore concluded with a beautiful version of With or Without You, (though I don’t remember Bono dancing with anyone?)
The second and final encore featured U2’s recent song – The Saints are Coming, (a rough and fun version of) Desire. The concert closed with a stunning version of Kite (dedicated to Cate Blanchett and featuring Tim Moriaity on didgeridoo). Although I knew the band had rehearsed it I was still surprised to hear it closing the concert. Seeing the kite lift off as the band concluded was awesome, (and they did say they’ll be back~!)
Overall, it was an excellent show. I think next time I’ll try and get tickets closer to the stage. I was intrigued that the older songs that got the loudest reactions. Bono did seem a little quieter than usual. Another thing that I quite like about U2 is throughout their career the meanings of their songs continue to evolve and can speak to people in different ways, at different times.
Sydney was the third show on the Vertigo tour I’ve seen. Each of the shows stood out for different reasons. Miami featured an acoustic version of Who’s Gonna Ride Your Wild Horses, Miracle Drug, and the most songs from How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb (7), Sydney had the least (4), but included Stuck in a Moment (which I had heard acoustically in the two US shows) and The Fly, and Kite. The New York show included a cover of Instant Karma, the beautiful Original of the Species and finished with Bad. But I think push come to shove, the 11.21 show in New York was the strongest and most emotional for me. For those who are interested in set lists:
Miami: 11-13-05
City of Blinding Lights / Vertigo / Elevation / Mysterious Ways / Until the End of the Word / I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For – In A Little While / Beautiful Day / Miracle Drug / Sometimes You Can’t Make it on Your Own / Love and Peace or Else / Sunday Bloody Sunday / Bullet the Blue Sky / Miss Sarajevo / Pride (In the Name of Love) / Where the Streets Have No Name / One ///
// Stuck in a Moment You Can’t Get Out Of / Who’s Gonna Ride Your Wild Horses / With or Without You ///
// All Because of You / Yahweh / 40.
New York 11-21-05
City of Blinding Lights / Vertigo / Elevation / I Will Follow / I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For – In A Little While / Beautiful Day / Original of the Species / Sometimes You Can’t Make it On Your Own / Love and Peace or Else / Sunday Bloody Sunday / Bullet the Blue Sky / Miss Sarajevo / Pride (in the Name of Love) / Where the Streets Have No Name / One-Ol’ Man River ///
// Until the End of the World / Mysterious Ways / With or Without You-White Flag-Love Will Tear Us Apart ///
// The First Time / Stuck in a Moment You Can’t Get out Of / Instant Karma! (w/ Patti Smith) / Bad–People got the Power //
Friday, November 10, 2006
Music
Inspired by Elsie, here’s a list of the contenders for my ‘Album of the Year’, in no particular order:
Evermore (Real Life); Jewel (Goodbye Alice in Wonderland); Sandi Thom (Smile … it confuses people); The Frames (The Cost); The Whitlams (Little Cloud); Jars of Clay (Good Monsters); Sarah Blasko (What the Sea Wants, the Sea Will Have); Eskimo Joe (Black fingernails, Red wine); Thom Yorke (The Eraser); Glen Hansard and Marketa Irglova (The Swell Season); Pearl Jam (Pearl Jam); Belle and Sebastian (The Life Pursuit); The Killers (Sam’s Town).
(Perhaps going to show that someone spent too much money on music this year).
Evermore (Real Life); Jewel (Goodbye Alice in Wonderland); Sandi Thom (Smile … it confuses people); The Frames (The Cost); The Whitlams (Little Cloud); Jars of Clay (Good Monsters); Sarah Blasko (What the Sea Wants, the Sea Will Have); Eskimo Joe (Black fingernails, Red wine); Thom Yorke (The Eraser); Glen Hansard and Marketa Irglova (The Swell Season); Pearl Jam (Pearl Jam); Belle and Sebastian (The Life Pursuit); The Killers (Sam’s Town).
(Perhaps going to show that someone spent too much money on music this year).
30 Years, 11 Albums ... 18 songs
After almost 9 years U2 are back are on our shores with the Vertigo tour, and by now have played their first show (No - I don’t want to know anything about it).
It seems quite amazing that it is almost a year ago that I saw them in Miami and New York. It is going to be interesting seeing how the indoor show is changed for the stadium show on this leg. One things for sure, there will be surprises (and perhaps a few songs from All that You Can't Leave Behind). I am going to post reviews of the three shows (Sydney 11.11; and the two I saw last year).
I’ve found it quite interesting reading about the U2 Definitive collection to be released on Nov 18. Its not likely the tracklist will keep everyone happy, but I am saddened that no songs from October, Zooropa and Pop made it.
For the record, here's a collection of songs that I would use to introduce someone to U2, while staying away from the 'hits'. (Note, the listing probably doesn't flow or fit on a standard cd..)
1. Out of Control
2. Gloria
3. Sunday Bloody Sunday (Acoustic)
4. Drowning Man
5. The Unforgettable Fire
6. Bad
7. One Tree Hill
8. All I Want is You
9. So Cruel
10. Love is Blindness
11. The First Time
12. Miss Sarajevo
13. Please / Where the Streets Have No Name (Live)
14. Staring at the Sun (Live, Acoustic)
15. The Ground Beneath Her Feet
16. When I Look at the World
17. Crumbs From Your Table
It seems quite amazing that it is almost a year ago that I saw them in Miami and New York. It is going to be interesting seeing how the indoor show is changed for the stadium show on this leg. One things for sure, there will be surprises (and perhaps a few songs from All that You Can't Leave Behind). I am going to post reviews of the three shows (Sydney 11.11; and the two I saw last year).
I’ve found it quite interesting reading about the U2 Definitive collection to be released on Nov 18. Its not likely the tracklist will keep everyone happy, but I am saddened that no songs from October, Zooropa and Pop made it.
For the record, here's a collection of songs that I would use to introduce someone to U2, while staying away from the 'hits'. (Note, the listing probably doesn't flow or fit on a standard cd..)
1. Out of Control
2. Gloria
3. Sunday Bloody Sunday (Acoustic)
4. Drowning Man
5. The Unforgettable Fire
6. Bad
7. One Tree Hill
8. All I Want is You
9. So Cruel
10. Love is Blindness
11. The First Time
12. Miss Sarajevo
13. Please / Where the Streets Have No Name (Live)
14. Staring at the Sun (Live, Acoustic)
15. The Ground Beneath Her Feet
16. When I Look at the World
17. Crumbs From Your Table
Saturday, October 28, 2006
Wordplay
Last night we went to see Wordplay. It is a movie about the creation, character, and some of the characters completing the New York Times crossword, and concludes with a look at the characters competing in the Stamford Crossword competition. It is a good length film (about 90mins), and well constructed. I enjoyed the recollections of Bill Clinton, and Bob Dole who both recalled the 1996 election crossword, which was built around a clue 'Tomorrow's headline', which could read "Clinton [or] Bob Dole Elected". Not your typical film, but definitely worth a look.
Thursday, October 26, 2006
Kids…
Was down in Wollongong (a while ago now) and my mother drew my attention to an article in the Good Weekend; based on an excerpt from the book Adult themes: rewriting the rules of adulthood (Kate Crawford). The article talked about attitudes to the cultural landscape around us. It was quite a fascinating read, and I am now quite looking forward to reading the book.
Staying on culture a little longer, I am quite fond of the modern adaptions of Shakespeare’s plays, even if they have their flaws. I’m looking forward to watching Shakespeare Retold (Modern interpretations of four Shakespearian plays produced by the BBC). I saw one (Much ado about Nothing) while I was in the UK last year and really enjoyed it. From memory it will be on our ABC this year too, it is worth keeping an eye out for.
Staying on culture a little longer, I am quite fond of the modern adaptions of Shakespeare’s plays, even if they have their flaws. I’m looking forward to watching Shakespeare Retold (Modern interpretations of four Shakespearian plays produced by the BBC). I saw one (Much ado about Nothing) while I was in the UK last year and really enjoyed it. From memory it will be on our ABC this year too, it is worth keeping an eye out for.
Saturday, October 14, 2006
The Swell Season
Glen Hansard (of The Frames) and classical pianist and singer Marketa Irglova's CD The Swell Season was reviewed by Bruce Elder in the SMH today. I can really only echo the words of the review - the interplay of the instruments and the combination of voices creates a cd of real beauty.
The standout tracks for me are: Are You Sleeping?, Falling Slowly and the instrumental The Swell Season.
The standout tracks for me are: Are You Sleeping?, Falling Slowly and the instrumental The Swell Season.
Saturday, October 07, 2006
Political correctness in fiction
Last weekend I also caught quite an interesting article in The Australian. Lionel Shriver (author of We Need to talk About Kevin) wrote on some of the feedback she had received about the attitudes and behaviour of characters in her novels. Given the social-political climate she wondered if authors would soon be charged because of the views of their characters.
It was quite interesting reading some people’s responses to her characters, asking why the mother in We Need to talk About Kevin was Armenian; and didn’t attend P&C meetings. She was waiting for the day her narrator would be arrested.
As it seems there is often an enforced silence about issues (note the fuss with Martin Sheen and the Dixie Chicks, when they spoke out about the war with Iraq
I might leave the last word for Shriver:
My characters are full of prejudices. My characters may not like Chinese people. My characters may believe that homosexuality is unnatural. My characters may slander Islam, or belief in crystals, or my father's Presbyterianism. My characters murder schoolchildren, plot to massacre two billion people overnight and hit their husbands over the head. My characters are obnoxious, spiteful, seething, difficult, resentful and inconsistent; and no, my characters will not always take their six-year-old kids to therapists to get help. My characters think abominations. In other words, my characters are the closest approximations I can contrive of real people.
In which the Long Weekend is mentioned.
Fi and I went down to Canberra for the long weekend. Was really quite lovely to get away for a few days, and get to spend a bit of time with her family and our friends.
We all went out to Tidbinbilla for a picnic on Saturday, which was so quiet and peaceful. One of the nice surprises was seeing a couple of Platypuses (some might say Platypi?). I have to admit I would not have known what to look for, but Fi’s dad pointed them out for us. We generally saw the ripples in the water as they came up and then dived back down.
We listened to the last five minutes of the AFL Grand Final as we were driving home. While I was a little disappointed in the loss, the Sydney Swans have had a fantastic year, and they could leave the field with their heads held high, they gave it everything, and came back to one point of the West Coast Eagles (who are worthy winners). West Coast and Sydney played out two of the closest Grand Finals in the last 30 years.
The Grand Final is also the 64th time the Swans have played a match decided by 1 point. I’m already looking forward to the first bounce next season.
Sunday morning we went to St Andrews Presbyterian Church and then Floraide with Deb which was lovely. (Deb has posted some photos on her blog and I’ll post a few later).
Sunday night, we went and saw The Devil Wears Prada. It is quite a feel-good-type-film, and I quite enjoyed it. A couple of scenes stood out, firstly one where Andrea becomes self-aware (in the context of she was made aware of what she did to her colleague by choosing to go to Paris), and secondly a line that was given to Nate (Andrea’s boyfriend), 'the phone calls you always take is the relationship you are in’, and I think this is a helpful reminder for us.
Monday morning we had brunch with Fi’s school friends, then went to do a bit of shopping (mainly clothes shopping) before heading to Manuka for lunch, and back to Floraide before starting the drive back to Sydney. It was a very enjoyable weekend.
We all went out to Tidbinbilla for a picnic on Saturday, which was so quiet and peaceful. One of the nice surprises was seeing a couple of Platypuses (some might say Platypi?). I have to admit I would not have known what to look for, but Fi’s dad pointed them out for us. We generally saw the ripples in the water as they came up and then dived back down.We listened to the last five minutes of the AFL Grand Final as we were driving home. While I was a little disappointed in the loss, the Sydney Swans have had a fantastic year, and they could leave the field with their heads held high, they gave it everything, and came back to one point of the West Coast Eagles (who are worthy winners). West Coast and Sydney played out two of the closest Grand Finals in the last 30 years.
The Grand Final is also the 64th time the Swans have played a match decided by 1 point. I’m already looking forward to the first bounce next season.
Sunday morning we went to St Andrews Presbyterian Church and then Floraide with Deb which was lovely. (Deb has posted some photos on her blog and I’ll post a few later).
Sunday night, we went and saw The Devil Wears Prada. It is quite a feel-good-type-film, and I quite enjoyed it. A couple of scenes stood out, firstly one where Andrea becomes self-aware (in the context of she was made aware of what she did to her colleague by choosing to go to Paris), and secondly a line that was given to Nate (Andrea’s boyfriend), 'the phone calls you always take is the relationship you are in’, and I think this is a helpful reminder for us.
Monday morning we had brunch with Fi’s school friends, then went to do a bit of shopping (mainly clothes shopping) before heading to Manuka for lunch, and back to Floraide before starting the drive back to Sydney. It was a very enjoyable weekend.
Tuesday, September 26, 2006
50 Years of TV: Five shows
We recently commemorated fifty years of television. I thought I’d mark it by writing about the five shows that I found memorable. (The order resembles chronology).
Picket Fences (1992-1996) (David E. Kelley) - It is probably the first legal drama that I watched. It dealt with issues in an aptly named American small town “Rome”. I would be quite interested if the series was released onto DVD.
The X-Files (1992-2003) (Chris Carter) - Moving on to the only Sci-fi show on my list. While I quite liked it, I didn’t quite get to watch all of the nine seasons. On the whole I think the first three seasons where the best, but do plan (one-day) to finish watching all nine seasons, and see how the story arc concludes.
The Practice (1997-2004) (David E. Kelley) - Continuing on the legal theme, The Practice was set in a Boston legal practice, it dealt with a large array of contemporary issues in a serious manner. Like Picket Fences, another show I’m looking forward to the DVD box sets to come out.
The West Wing (1999-2006) (Aaron Sorkin) - No secret to anyone regularly reading this blog that The West Wing is my all time favourite TV Show. It is the most even on the list, and had it all in terms of character, dialogue, and plots. It is quite the contradiction, incredibly real in the issues and themes of the stories, and what we would like American to be.
House MD (2004- ???) (David Shore) - I am quite enjoying this medical drama, it is well scripted and acted. The show has just begun its second season - it will be interesting to see the direction the show goes. Along with Bones, it is one of my currently regular TV shows.
The honorable mentions go to Mad About You, Seinfeld, The Simpsons and Bones.
Picket Fences (1992-1996) (David E. Kelley) - It is probably the first legal drama that I watched. It dealt with issues in an aptly named American small town “Rome”. I would be quite interested if the series was released onto DVD.
The X-Files (1992-2003) (Chris Carter) - Moving on to the only Sci-fi show on my list. While I quite liked it, I didn’t quite get to watch all of the nine seasons. On the whole I think the first three seasons where the best, but do plan (one-day) to finish watching all nine seasons, and see how the story arc concludes.
The Practice (1997-2004) (David E. Kelley) - Continuing on the legal theme, The Practice was set in a Boston legal practice, it dealt with a large array of contemporary issues in a serious manner. Like Picket Fences, another show I’m looking forward to the DVD box sets to come out.
The West Wing (1999-2006) (Aaron Sorkin) - No secret to anyone regularly reading this blog that The West Wing is my all time favourite TV Show. It is the most even on the list, and had it all in terms of character, dialogue, and plots. It is quite the contradiction, incredibly real in the issues and themes of the stories, and what we would like American to be.
House MD (2004- ???) (David Shore) - I am quite enjoying this medical drama, it is well scripted and acted. The show has just begun its second season - it will be interesting to see the direction the show goes. Along with Bones, it is one of my currently regular TV shows.
The honorable mentions go to Mad About You, Seinfeld, The Simpsons and Bones.
Saturday, September 23, 2006
Musical Murmurings (updated)
I posted a couple of days ago about a forthcoming Brooke Fraser release. I
thought I'd make a post of a few other murmurings that had caught my ear.
Damien Rice - 9 (due November)
The Frames - The Cost (released in Ireland, due out here early 2007)
The Killers - Sams Town (released early October)
Interpol are in studio, release is slated for 2007
+++
Cheer, Cheer the Red and the white ...
I need to say something about Paul Roos. Last night the Swans beat Fremantle to make it into the 2006 Grand Final and they will play West Coast. Fantastic job! He took over the Sydney Swans late 2002, and since then, they were beaten Preliminary finalists (2003), Premiers (2005), and Grand Finalists (2006).
Another great season for the Sydney Swans, and congratulations to Adam Goodes, who won the Brownlow Medal (the Best and Fairest player for the 2006 Season).
+++
thought I'd make a post of a few other murmurings that had caught my ear.
Damien Rice - 9 (due November)
The Frames - The Cost (released in Ireland, due out here early 2007)
The Killers - Sams Town (released early October)
Interpol are in studio, release is slated for 2007
+++
Cheer, Cheer the Red and the white ...
I need to say something about Paul Roos. Last night the Swans beat Fremantle to make it into the 2006 Grand Final and they will play West Coast. Fantastic job! He took over the Sydney Swans late 2002, and since then, they were beaten Preliminary finalists (2003), Premiers (2005), and Grand Finalists (2006).
Another great season for the Sydney Swans, and congratulations to Adam Goodes, who won the Brownlow Medal (the Best and Fairest player for the 2006 Season).
+++
Friday, September 15, 2006
The Twilight of Atheism
I went to the Smith Lecture tonight. The Smith lecture is put on by CBF (with CASE, and The Fifth Estate), and aims to provide an opportunity for a Christian public figure to present his or her perspective on a subject relevant to the life of the city.. Our speaker was Professor Alister McGrath (Professor of Historical Theology at Oxford University), who spoke about the Twilight of Atheism. I quite enjoyed the lecture, so here are some my notes.
McGrath began by detailing three main objections to theistic faiths.
1. Religion leads to evil
2. God is a consoling delusion
3. Science has disproved God
1. Religion leads to Evil
There is a degree of truth to this statement, but question is this capacity different for other world views. It seems that intolerance has come from both theistic views (for example the Spanish Inquisition), and through atheism (Stalinism). So from the same stimulus both good and bad can come.
Freud calls religion a pathological disorder, but there is a (very complex) and tenuous link between religion and well-being. (Of 100 studies, 79 showed at least 1 positive correlation, only 1 showed a negative correlation, and the remaining 20 painted a complex picture).
2. God is just a delusion
Feuerbach (1804-72) argued that God is a projection of human longing – we invent God to fulfill a need, but this is not an argument against theistic views, as the argument works against both the theist and atheist – both the aspiration to believe (or disbelieve) is the fulfillment of a desire. (I found the comment that atheism could be a “wish to escape judgment for their deeds" (Milosz), interesting.
3. Science disproves God
Faith is blind trust, and cannot justify itself by evidence - Anything worth knowing can be proved from science (Dawkins)
Science cannot answer childlike questions of why we are here, and what does it all mean? (Medawar)
The world can be explained in both an theistic and atheistic way, nature doesn’t push either way. Science cannot answer the question of the existence of God. Darwinism is equally compatible with theism and atheism. Science it seems does not push towards atheism.
As there is no position of certainty; each individual looks for the explanation which explains the data best. For example; CS Lewis’ famous quote (paraphrased) that God is "the light by which I see all else" or Dawkins, who states that the world is exactly how we would expect if there was no good, no evil.
Post-modernity
In a sense religion is identity giving, as people begin to seek “spiritual” answers.
Some of the concluding comments, and answers to questions:
Evolution does not provide a basis for morality.
Secularism is position of faith; has no vision, suppresses the vision of others; accepts the fruit (social action, community involvement), but not the roots.
Reason can not take us all the way, we take hold of our “best fit explanation” by trust (faith).
Faith can engage with reality, and hold its own.
Perhaps not surprisingly McGrath did not provide a compelling argument to believe in the Christian God but rather argued that the position of atheism is as much a position of “faith” as Christianity.
All things considered it was quite an interesting lecture, and I’m quite looking forward to reading McGrath’s book. I’ve quite enjoyed the two lectures I’ve been to this week. I've quite enjoyed the intellectual stimulation.
McGrath began by detailing three main objections to theistic faiths.
1. Religion leads to evil
2. God is a consoling delusion
3. Science has disproved God
1. Religion leads to Evil
There is a degree of truth to this statement, but question is this capacity different for other world views. It seems that intolerance has come from both theistic views (for example the Spanish Inquisition), and through atheism (Stalinism). So from the same stimulus both good and bad can come.
Freud calls religion a pathological disorder, but there is a (very complex) and tenuous link between religion and well-being. (Of 100 studies, 79 showed at least 1 positive correlation, only 1 showed a negative correlation, and the remaining 20 painted a complex picture).
2. God is just a delusion
Feuerbach (1804-72) argued that God is a projection of human longing – we invent God to fulfill a need, but this is not an argument against theistic views, as the argument works against both the theist and atheist – both the aspiration to believe (or disbelieve) is the fulfillment of a desire. (I found the comment that atheism could be a “wish to escape judgment for their deeds" (Milosz), interesting.
3. Science disproves God
Faith is blind trust, and cannot justify itself by evidence - Anything worth knowing can be proved from science (Dawkins)
Science cannot answer childlike questions of why we are here, and what does it all mean? (Medawar)
The world can be explained in both an theistic and atheistic way, nature doesn’t push either way. Science cannot answer the question of the existence of God. Darwinism is equally compatible with theism and atheism. Science it seems does not push towards atheism.
As there is no position of certainty; each individual looks for the explanation which explains the data best. For example; CS Lewis’ famous quote (paraphrased) that God is "the light by which I see all else" or Dawkins, who states that the world is exactly how we would expect if there was no good, no evil.
Post-modernity
In a sense religion is identity giving, as people begin to seek “spiritual” answers.
Some of the concluding comments, and answers to questions:
Evolution does not provide a basis for morality.
Secularism is position of faith; has no vision, suppresses the vision of others; accepts the fruit (social action, community involvement), but not the roots.
Reason can not take us all the way, we take hold of our “best fit explanation” by trust (faith).
Faith can engage with reality, and hold its own.
Perhaps not surprisingly McGrath did not provide a compelling argument to believe in the Christian God but rather argued that the position of atheism is as much a position of “faith” as Christianity.
All things considered it was quite an interesting lecture, and I’m quite looking forward to reading McGrath’s book. I’ve quite enjoyed the two lectures I’ve been to this week. I've quite enjoyed the intellectual stimulation.
Wednesday, September 13, 2006
... now that i have seen ... I am responsible ... faith without deeds is dead..
Albertine
I'm quite a fan of Brooke Fraser, this song, a preview from her new album due out in December, is beautiful. Her voice combines beautifuly with the rhythm of the music, and the heartfelt lyric, to show the urgency she feels. [Thanks Marty]
I'm quite a fan of Brooke Fraser, this song, a preview from her new album due out in December, is beautiful. Her voice combines beautifuly with the rhythm of the music, and the heartfelt lyric, to show the urgency she feels. [Thanks Marty]
Tuesday, September 12, 2006
Sports Shorts
Well its September again, football finals time. The Sydney Swans are into the Preliminary final (against either Fremantle or Melbourne), after another 1 point win. Win or lose Friday week they've had a fantastic year. It was good to see that their form was rewarded in All-Australian selections.
The other excitement this week is the beginning of the UEFA Champions League. Am realling looking forward the seeing the best players on the field again.
The other excitement this week is the beginning of the UEFA Champions League. Am realling looking forward the seeing the best players on the field again.
Another week gone…
* Updated to include link to article on Sydney Anglicans website.
Busy, but lovely weekend – Friday night Fi and I went to King Street, and found a fantastic Vietnamese Resturant, then Saturday, I found a suit, went to the airport and said farewell to Fi’s parents (they are off to Malaysia for a holiday) and had dinner with my parents (celebrating Mum's Birthday and Father's Day), on Sunday, I got my wedding ring. :-)
Last night, I went to the CASE Seminar - Religion, terror; film: reflections on 9/11. It was a fascinating look at the place and role images have taken. Greg Clarke began by looking at the place of images in Christian thought. One of the things I was thinking about, was when Greg asked us what came to mind when he said ‘justice’ all the responses where pictures. I got thinking as Jesus often taught with images, parables. (my mind was drawn to a number of images and the "I am statements" from John’s Gospel (I am the Bread of Life, I am the Light of the World, I am the Good Shepard). Perhaps we do think in pictures?
Justine then gave a fascinating overview of how 9-11 has been seen in popular culture, and spoke particularly about United 93, World Trade Centre, The Falling Man, and the fictional War of the Worlds. Lara has posted her comments here.
Staying on 9-11 for another moment; in terms of cultural responses, I really liked the West Wing episode Isaac and Ishmael (Season 3), and how it attempted to deal with the questions and issues.
Though, I think its the French film 11-09-01 which reasonated the most with me. The film give 11 directors (from 11 nations), 11 minutes and 9 seconds and 1 frame to respond. The highlights for me were the films from France, India, US, UK
UK – centres around a Chilean man based in London penning an open letter (and parts are sung) of ‘solidarity and sympathy’ with Americans in the wake of 11-9. Telling them that September 11 is a date that they both share, as 11-9-02, would be the 30th Anniversary since the overthrow of Allende’s Government in Chile – 11-9-72, and the first since the US’s bloody Tuesday.
France – a relationship breakdown plays out in New York, with the collapse of the towers in the background. The women in the scenes is deaf, so while the TV news show footage of the planes, the women is writing a letter about how she is going to leave her partner, before he leaves here, and in the climax of the scene her partner [who acts as a tour guide for the deaf, and was working near the twin towers] comes in, covered with the dust of the towers.
US – a man, talking with his deceased wife, shows the simple things of life, then at the climax of the piece we the light comes through the window, and the flowers on the mantelpiece are seen to come alive, (at the moment, I assume the tower falls), but he also remembers or realises that his wife is dead
India – The films is centered the true story of a Middle Eastern man, living in New York, and is family. Through the course of the short film the man moves from terrorists to hero. The film highlights the fears that those of Arab descent would be living with in the time immediately after 11-9. By virtue of his appearance neighbours move from feeling sympathetic to suspicious to scared, but in the film the man runs to the scene, to help survivors. And it is with this the film concludes, beautifully spoken in a eulogy. It also highlights a negative aspect of the US.
Of the others, not many of them really stood out to this degree, as I can’t really remember the details as vividly as for the four I’ve mentioned above.
And the final of the eleven pieces is one which I found hard to watch, but it seems to be making the point that War is perhaps to man, what killing is to the snake, it is natural, and instinctive, or in another way – war will always be with us. The film showed us a man who essentially thought he was a snake. I found the film quite difficult to engage with. I really like the idea of the project, its interesting seeing how people respond to the film within the context of their cultures, and it is kind of interesting watching the different ideas used in the creation of these short films.
Busy, but lovely weekend – Friday night Fi and I went to King Street, and found a fantastic Vietnamese Resturant, then Saturday, I found a suit, went to the airport and said farewell to Fi’s parents (they are off to Malaysia for a holiday) and had dinner with my parents (celebrating Mum's Birthday and Father's Day), on Sunday, I got my wedding ring. :-)
Last night, I went to the CASE Seminar - Religion, terror; film: reflections on 9/11. It was a fascinating look at the place and role images have taken. Greg Clarke began by looking at the place of images in Christian thought. One of the things I was thinking about, was when Greg asked us what came to mind when he said ‘justice’ all the responses where pictures. I got thinking as Jesus often taught with images, parables. (my mind was drawn to a number of images and the "I am statements" from John’s Gospel (I am the Bread of Life, I am the Light of the World, I am the Good Shepard). Perhaps we do think in pictures?
Justine then gave a fascinating overview of how 9-11 has been seen in popular culture, and spoke particularly about United 93, World Trade Centre, The Falling Man, and the fictional War of the Worlds. Lara has posted her comments here.
Staying on 9-11 for another moment; in terms of cultural responses, I really liked the West Wing episode Isaac and Ishmael (Season 3), and how it attempted to deal with the questions and issues.
Though, I think its the French film 11-09-01 which reasonated the most with me. The film give 11 directors (from 11 nations), 11 minutes and 9 seconds and 1 frame to respond. The highlights for me were the films from France, India, US, UK
UK – centres around a Chilean man based in London penning an open letter (and parts are sung) of ‘solidarity and sympathy’ with Americans in the wake of 11-9. Telling them that September 11 is a date that they both share, as 11-9-02, would be the 30th Anniversary since the overthrow of Allende’s Government in Chile – 11-9-72, and the first since the US’s bloody Tuesday.
France – a relationship breakdown plays out in New York, with the collapse of the towers in the background. The women in the scenes is deaf, so while the TV news show footage of the planes, the women is writing a letter about how she is going to leave her partner, before he leaves here, and in the climax of the scene her partner [who acts as a tour guide for the deaf, and was working near the twin towers] comes in, covered with the dust of the towers.
US – a man, talking with his deceased wife, shows the simple things of life, then at the climax of the piece we the light comes through the window, and the flowers on the mantelpiece are seen to come alive, (at the moment, I assume the tower falls), but he also remembers or realises that his wife is dead
India – The films is centered the true story of a Middle Eastern man, living in New York, and is family. Through the course of the short film the man moves from terrorists to hero. The film highlights the fears that those of Arab descent would be living with in the time immediately after 11-9. By virtue of his appearance neighbours move from feeling sympathetic to suspicious to scared, but in the film the man runs to the scene, to help survivors. And it is with this the film concludes, beautifully spoken in a eulogy. It also highlights a negative aspect of the US.
Of the others, not many of them really stood out to this degree, as I can’t really remember the details as vividly as for the four I’ve mentioned above.
And the final of the eleven pieces is one which I found hard to watch, but it seems to be making the point that War is perhaps to man, what killing is to the snake, it is natural, and instinctive, or in another way – war will always be with us. The film showed us a man who essentially thought he was a snake. I found the film quite difficult to engage with. I really like the idea of the project, its interesting seeing how people respond to the film within the context of their cultures, and it is kind of interesting watching the different ideas used in the creation of these short films.
Monday, August 28, 2006
… a time to rebuild …
As I am sure most of my readers are aware, in the early hours of May 10 this year, St Barnabas Broadway was gutted by fire, as you may not be aware, our community had what was called a ‘Search Conference’. The conference was an opportunity for our church family to have their thoughts, and feelings heard. It seems a big ask, but it was an amazing two days, both in terms of the process, and the results.
Saturday morning was spent talking about where we came from, the history of the community of believers at Barneys. The afternoon more or less centered on who we are, focusing on our community, our ministry areas, our finances, and our opportunities, and Sunday worked towards presenting a number of briefs that could be given to an architect.
Largely because of my history background, I found the session to be amazing. Especially hearing about the ministry of Barneys, its struggles, its growth, the challenges they faced, the context we now find ourselves, but above all how God has remain constant and faithful in spite of the ebbs and flows of life.
The afternoon session we were taken through an amazing array of information, looking at the demographics of the church, the community, the usage of the building, as we did this our eyes were opened to opportunities we could pursue as we began to understand the area in which our community is located.
It is clear to me that we were blessed on Sunday, as we talked through options, opportunities, and though we came out with different options, the same purpose and principles ran through them all.
Sunday, began where I wish each and every day of my life began, at the God’s feet, in prayer, and worship. We then placed ourselves on a line according to what we thought we should do – from (1) rebuilding the building on its footprint; to (5) significant alternations, and (10) a radically new Barneys, once we had done this, we broke into groups, and spoke about where on this continuum we were, why, and what we would like to do. Each of the groups then reported back on the discussions, and we then had a list of what each point of the continuum looked like, and we could clearly see similarities in viewpoints and where our focus should be.
We had a break here, and then we had to put ourselves on the same continuum again – but while before the people seemed to be spread evenly, we had seemed to gravitate to the upper end of the scale. After this, we created groups of 12, and then worked toward creating a brief (for architects), we got to look at each of these proposals, and vote (not committing ourselves, nor making a firm decision, but an indication to the parish council where the mindset of the group was on that day).
It was a tiring, but fulfilling process, and gave me more to think about than simply what happens to the land where our rain-shelter was, but who we are as a community, and the opportunities we have to serve our God together, and I look forward to seeing where our Awesome God will take us.
Saturday morning was spent talking about where we came from, the history of the community of believers at Barneys. The afternoon more or less centered on who we are, focusing on our community, our ministry areas, our finances, and our opportunities, and Sunday worked towards presenting a number of briefs that could be given to an architect.
Largely because of my history background, I found the session to be amazing. Especially hearing about the ministry of Barneys, its struggles, its growth, the challenges they faced, the context we now find ourselves, but above all how God has remain constant and faithful in spite of the ebbs and flows of life.
The afternoon session we were taken through an amazing array of information, looking at the demographics of the church, the community, the usage of the building, as we did this our eyes were opened to opportunities we could pursue as we began to understand the area in which our community is located.
It is clear to me that we were blessed on Sunday, as we talked through options, opportunities, and though we came out with different options, the same purpose and principles ran through them all.
Sunday, began where I wish each and every day of my life began, at the God’s feet, in prayer, and worship. We then placed ourselves on a line according to what we thought we should do – from (1) rebuilding the building on its footprint; to (5) significant alternations, and (10) a radically new Barneys, once we had done this, we broke into groups, and spoke about where on this continuum we were, why, and what we would like to do. Each of the groups then reported back on the discussions, and we then had a list of what each point of the continuum looked like, and we could clearly see similarities in viewpoints and where our focus should be.
We had a break here, and then we had to put ourselves on the same continuum again – but while before the people seemed to be spread evenly, we had seemed to gravitate to the upper end of the scale. After this, we created groups of 12, and then worked toward creating a brief (for architects), we got to look at each of these proposals, and vote (not committing ourselves, nor making a firm decision, but an indication to the parish council where the mindset of the group was on that day).
It was a tiring, but fulfilling process, and gave me more to think about than simply what happens to the land where our rain-shelter was, but who we are as a community, and the opportunities we have to serve our God together, and I look forward to seeing where our Awesome God will take us.
Saturday, August 05, 2006
y-pod
I have had this thought to post for some time. A while ago Richard Glover wrote a really interesting article speaking of the proliferation of the ipods. Here are a few select quotes:
That said, is is great having a soundtrack that you can listen to a you travel, In fact I quite often listen to music as I walk to work, or Fi and I travel to Canberra, but its great to take out those ear-phones from time to time. (If you want to see the full article let me know, and I'll try and find it).
Why are we so afraid of a few moments in which our minds can float, and thoughts can bubble up? And what are people going to watch on all these multiplying screens anyway?Do we undervalue stillness and silence? I might be wrong, but I recollect car trips in New Zealand, and how we talked or sang as we went on long drives, and time like this is great to strengthen familial relationships.
Why this reluctance to do one thing at a time? It's as if we are trying to distract ourselves from some terrible realisation. As if we are trying to stave off some monster that lurks just out of view.
And new cars now come with them fitted in the back seat in order to anaesthetise the children during journeys. This had been one of the few remaining periods in which children and parents talked and interrelated - sometimes even played games and sang - so you can see why a screen had to be rushed into service to stop all of that.
That said, is is great having a soundtrack that you can listen to a you travel, In fact I quite often listen to music as I walk to work, or Fi and I travel to Canberra, but its great to take out those ear-phones from time to time. (If you want to see the full article let me know, and I'll try and find it).
Random Musings on Sport..
After the Word Football Cup held this year, I would have loved to have done a montage of footage of the crowds watching the match (v Croatia) at Federation Square or Circular Quay, or in the stadium as the match was played –it told a greater story than the football did. Faces went from despair to elation; and then frustration, back to despair, and then enduring the last few anxious minutes before elation and celebration.
Moving on, I think everyone remembers 1 of the 90 minutes of the Australian game against Italy. I was thinking recently that I would not want a have a video replay or coaches being able to challenge calls. Human error is part of sport. I’m reminded of the fact that the Swans may have won last years Grand Final because a West Coast player was taken out of the marking contest (illegally) and Australia may have been knocked out because of a 50-50 call. It is the romance of sport, sure its heartbreaking to lose but this is part of sport, that’s not to say I don't get frustrated during Bledisloe Cup tests, or Swan’s AFL matches, but please don’t make the referees “robotic-law-enforcers”, leave room for human error.
Moving on, I think everyone remembers 1 of the 90 minutes of the Australian game against Italy. I was thinking recently that I would not want a have a video replay or coaches being able to challenge calls. Human error is part of sport. I’m reminded of the fact that the Swans may have won last years Grand Final because a West Coast player was taken out of the marking contest (illegally) and Australia may have been knocked out because of a 50-50 call. It is the romance of sport, sure its heartbreaking to lose but this is part of sport, that’s not to say I don't get frustrated during Bledisloe Cup tests, or Swan’s AFL matches, but please don’t make the referees “robotic-law-enforcers”, leave room for human error.
Been a long time..
Sorry, it does seem that activity on this blog has gone close a record low. So, let me quickly let you in on something. Fiona and I have set a date and will be getting married at St. Matthias Anglican Church Paddington on the the 2nd of December. In relation to the Wedding, the details are coming together quite nicely, and relatively stressfree.
Last night Fi and I went to a Music Appreciation night which Karen organised, the details are posted here, and we had a fun evening, and I was quite interested to hear more from some of the artists people chose.
Tonight it is off to the rain-soaked SCG to watch the Swans play the Bombers. It’s only the second game I’ve seen this year, I’m going with N. and my flatmates. It should be a good, even if a little cold and wet, night.
Another of the recent highlights was spending a weekend down in Canberra. I am actually beginning to think that I could quite easily live there – its close enough to Sydney to be able to go for the weekend, and at the same time the pace seems a touch or so slower than Sydney. The other highlight of our time there was the opportunity to catch up with Deb, and Fiona’s family and friends. It was quite a shame the weekend was as short as it was.
August will be quite a busy month for us – we have our church weekend away – we will hear a talks on leadership, which will be quite interesting. In a few weeks our church has a Search Conference, which will discuss our plans for our church. It should be quite an interesting meeting, and one that I am looking forward to.
Finally, I have to admit that I’m quite stoked that I will see U2 on my birthday with Fi and Lynley. :-)
Last night Fi and I went to a Music Appreciation night which Karen organised, the details are posted here, and we had a fun evening, and I was quite interested to hear more from some of the artists people chose.
Tonight it is off to the rain-soaked SCG to watch the Swans play the Bombers. It’s only the second game I’ve seen this year, I’m going with N. and my flatmates. It should be a good, even if a little cold and wet, night.
Another of the recent highlights was spending a weekend down in Canberra. I am actually beginning to think that I could quite easily live there – its close enough to Sydney to be able to go for the weekend, and at the same time the pace seems a touch or so slower than Sydney. The other highlight of our time there was the opportunity to catch up with Deb, and Fiona’s family and friends. It was quite a shame the weekend was as short as it was.
August will be quite a busy month for us – we have our church weekend away – we will hear a talks on leadership, which will be quite interesting. In a few weeks our church has a Search Conference, which will discuss our plans for our church. It should be quite an interesting meeting, and one that I am looking forward to.
Finally, I have to admit that I’m quite stoked that I will see U2 on my birthday with Fi and Lynley. :-)
Sunday, June 18, 2006
Another Sunny Day..
Well it has been quite a lovely weekend. I have a lovely catch-up and chat with Guan yesterday, and I've spent most of this morning sleeping. It was a busy week though. Tuesday night, I went to the Enmore theatre with Deb, and we saw Belle and Sebastian. It was quite a great gig, the band were up to it, and seemed to be having a lot of fun on stage. At times though the gig didn't seem to flow and there were pauses as they seemed to decide what to play.
The band has a beautifully original songs, at times they remind me of Simon and Garfunkel. I don't have much of their music, I own The Boy with the Arab Strap and The Life Pursuit. They played most of my favourite songs, and others that I loved hearing for the first time.
Also Fi gets back on Wednesday morning (6am-ish), which I'm quite looking forward too. Fiona's paper went really well in Barcelona, and she has been enjoying sightseeing in Barcelona, and more recently London.
++
Sport Aside: The World Cup has been going for a week, Australia scored their first goal and won their first game. Well played. Will be interesting seeing how they go tonight against Brazil. As the cliche goes, on paper they don't have much of a chance, but football is not played on paper.
Still, Argentina are the most impressive team at present, their second goal against Serbia and Montenegro is close to the best goal I've seen - 29 straight passes, and finished beautifully.
The band has a beautifully original songs, at times they remind me of Simon and Garfunkel. I don't have much of their music, I own The Boy with the Arab Strap and The Life Pursuit. They played most of my favourite songs, and others that I loved hearing for the first time.
Also Fi gets back on Wednesday morning (6am-ish), which I'm quite looking forward too. Fiona's paper went really well in Barcelona, and she has been enjoying sightseeing in Barcelona, and more recently London.
++
Sport Aside: The World Cup has been going for a week, Australia scored their first goal and won their first game. Well played. Will be interesting seeing how they go tonight against Brazil. As the cliche goes, on paper they don't have much of a chance, but football is not played on paper.
Still, Argentina are the most impressive team at present, their second goal against Serbia and Montenegro is close to the best goal I've seen - 29 straight passes, and finished beautifully.
Cinema …
My bible study group went and saw The Da Vinci Code recently. I want my money back. I have not seen any benefit coming from having gone to see it. Indeed I recall very little of both the book and movie. Not suprisingly my workmates do not seem too interested in the film; and have not read the book.
I still wonder if the churches response to the book is not a touch misguided. Has anyone been convinced to be a Christian simply through our ability to win the argument about DVC.
Am I better prepared for conversations I might have with my friends? Well, I still have to explain the fact I went and saw the film.
Equipping Men
Karen wondered if I had any reflections from being at Equip, or general comments about Men’s conventions I had been too. I found it slighty strange that a men’s day would be held the same day as Equip. But that’s another story.
The singing at men’s convention is often focused on, and I think there is something special about a large group of men singing (with or without musical accompaniment). Men don’t often sing (the obvious exception is at the football). In terms of musicians on stage, I think we are about the same, three singers; a couple of guitars; a drummer and a keyboard player. (I do like how at KCC the singers are off to the side, and the lectern is in the middle).
I think I have a must also have a unique (or perhaps novel or sensitive) sense of humour, because I don’t understand a number of jokes made by one of the speakers at Men’s Convention last year, jokes which often get a good reception.
I prefer the structure of EQUIP above that of the men’s conferences I’ve been too, but I guess that is partly because the Men’s conferences that I have been to are of sizes that make electives impractical. I can’t speak for the material obviously, but I will say that I like the idea of having electives. The topics seemed interesting and relevant.
Though the biggest thing I’d like to see change with Men’s conference, is thinking through ways we can have smaller interactive groups, and time for prayer, perhaps with the guys you came up with, or perhaps run something similar to EQUIP run in the City, once or twice a year.
I wonder if a series of between 4 and 6 talks held over Friday / Saturday is possibly the best way to reach, or disciple men for Christ. I’m not really sure I have a solution, but I know it is hard to focus and concentrate for that long. I know that I’m often finding it hard going by early afternoon Sunday.
I still wonder if the churches response to the book is not a touch misguided. Has anyone been convinced to be a Christian simply through our ability to win the argument about DVC.
Am I better prepared for conversations I might have with my friends? Well, I still have to explain the fact I went and saw the film.
Equipping Men
Karen wondered if I had any reflections from being at Equip, or general comments about Men’s conventions I had been too. I found it slighty strange that a men’s day would be held the same day as Equip. But that’s another story.
The singing at men’s convention is often focused on, and I think there is something special about a large group of men singing (with or without musical accompaniment). Men don’t often sing (the obvious exception is at the football). In terms of musicians on stage, I think we are about the same, three singers; a couple of guitars; a drummer and a keyboard player. (I do like how at KCC the singers are off to the side, and the lectern is in the middle).
I think I have a must also have a unique (or perhaps novel or sensitive) sense of humour, because I don’t understand a number of jokes made by one of the speakers at Men’s Convention last year, jokes which often get a good reception.
I prefer the structure of EQUIP above that of the men’s conferences I’ve been too, but I guess that is partly because the Men’s conferences that I have been to are of sizes that make electives impractical. I can’t speak for the material obviously, but I will say that I like the idea of having electives. The topics seemed interesting and relevant.
Though the biggest thing I’d like to see change with Men’s conference, is thinking through ways we can have smaller interactive groups, and time for prayer, perhaps with the guys you came up with, or perhaps run something similar to EQUIP run in the City, once or twice a year.
I wonder if a series of between 4 and 6 talks held over Friday / Saturday is possibly the best way to reach, or disciple men for Christ. I’m not really sure I have a solution, but I know it is hard to focus and concentrate for that long. I know that I’m often finding it hard going by early afternoon Sunday.
Tuesday, June 06, 2006
She said yes ...
It has been a while since I last wrote. We've had a little bit of trouble with our internet connection at F#, but it seems that with a change of provider we are back.The biggest news to share is that Fiona and I are engaged (since Sunday May 21, 2006). As is our custom we recently had brunch at Coogee, and after we'd finished we went for a walk around to Gordon's Bay (pictured), we were sitting on the rocks and I proposed.
For those who might be interested, a picture of the ring is above.Fiona is currently away in Barcelona, giving a presentation related to her PhD, and having a well earned break. Once she returns we will continue to plan for our marriage. No, at this point a date has not been set, but once it has we will let you know.
Thursday, May 11, 2006
From the Ashes...
Yesterday morning fire gutted our church, St. Barnabas (on Broadway). Please pray for our leaders, that God will give wisdom as they explore options for the future, and arrange the services for the short-term, and pray that God will work through this, unite us as a congregation, and through all we do we might bring glory to God’s Name.
SMH
Sydney Anglican
SMH
Sydney Anglican
Friday, April 28, 2006
News in brief
I had a great Easter weekend, I spent most of it in Wollongong. It was quite lazy, the highlights were a day on the road to Berry, and Berrima. Getting out in the fresh air was really lovely. I spent Saturday with my brother and a couple of our friends playing War Craft. Monday visited the new Sea Cliff Bridge (pictured) on the road to Wollongong, which was great. Matt, Mel and I went and saw V for Vendetta, which I kind of liked.Last weekend Fi and I went up to Newcastle for A's (Fi’s sister) graduation. We had a great time. It was interesting seeing how the University ran its graduation. The occasional address became a slight rant about the attention (or lack of it) the current Federal Government is paying to higher education (while I agreed with the sentiment, I do not think that a graduation should be made a political event).
The response on the other hand was quite fun and passionate, focusing our attention on how we approach our future. (I like the idea of having a response by one of the graduates, something that didn’t happen at my graduation). It was fantastic to spend some time with Fi’s family as well, getting to know them better. We spent Saturday out and about driving through the Hunter Valley visiting the vineyards, quite a beautiful drive too.
Monday night, we had a coffee and desert night for R. who was in our bible study group last year, and is returning to Scotland next month. It was great to get to know her(and her fiancé), while they were in our neck of the woods.
We're off to Wollongong tomorrow afternoon to celebrate my brother’s birthday.
Sport in Brief
My entries are rarely complete without some sport news... So here goes two quick pieces of news:
J. Gillespie 201 not out; and
Arsenal defeated Villireal to reach the Final of the Champions League, and will play Barcelona (who beat AC Milan) in one of the more promising finals for some time.
Photo: Dad.
Saturday, April 15, 2006
...Beautiful dawn - I'm just chasing time again...
Two days, two completely different shows. On Wednesday I went to see Sigur Ros, and then Thursday night I saw James Blunt.
I really enjoyed James Blunt's concert. He played all of the songs from his Back to Bedlam CD (which a workmate introduced me to about a year ago), and a few new songs, which were a little more upbeat lyrically than Back to Bedlam (which is quite melancholy). He was quite charming on stage, interacting and joking with the crowd.
The songs were given the chance to speak for themselves rather than being hidden in an elaborate stage or setting. The highlight of the show was No Bravery, which was sung in front of a screen showing images of the war torn Kosovo, which really added to the impact of the song. The crowd seemed to be in a respectful silence as the images and words of the song washed over us.
Wednesday night I saw Sigur Ros, one of my favourite bands, supported by Amiina, at the Enmore theatre. Sigur Ros are a really captivating band to listen to; their sound is so rich and unique, and Wednesday night was no exception.
It was hard to pick out highlights; I really liked the last song Popplagið and Glósóli and Hoppípolla from Takk were also great.
Unlike James Blunt, Sigur Ros did not get really chatty they let the music speak for them. I would be quite happy to go and see them again. Though it was a great gig, it didn’t quite get up to heights of their London show late last year, but having a horn section on stage playing with them is hard to bet.
All in all two great, but very different concerts.
I really enjoyed James Blunt's concert. He played all of the songs from his Back to Bedlam CD (which a workmate introduced me to about a year ago), and a few new songs, which were a little more upbeat lyrically than Back to Bedlam (which is quite melancholy). He was quite charming on stage, interacting and joking with the crowd.
The songs were given the chance to speak for themselves rather than being hidden in an elaborate stage or setting. The highlight of the show was No Bravery, which was sung in front of a screen showing images of the war torn Kosovo, which really added to the impact of the song. The crowd seemed to be in a respectful silence as the images and words of the song washed over us.
Wednesday night I saw Sigur Ros, one of my favourite bands, supported by Amiina, at the Enmore theatre. Sigur Ros are a really captivating band to listen to; their sound is so rich and unique, and Wednesday night was no exception.
It was hard to pick out highlights; I really liked the last song Popplagið and Glósóli and Hoppípolla from Takk were also great.
Unlike James Blunt, Sigur Ros did not get really chatty they let the music speak for them. I would be quite happy to go and see them again. Though it was a great gig, it didn’t quite get up to heights of their London show late last year, but having a horn section on stage playing with them is hard to bet.
All in all two great, but very different concerts.
Thursday, April 13, 2006
On writing
While I was reading through the weekend papers this week, an article in the Sun Herald resonated with me. James Bradley (author of The Resurrectionist), wrote about his reaction to the treatment of books on Oprah.
In many ways I agree with him, that it is good that people are reading, and if anything, Oprah’s show included, encourages people to read that’s a great thing. But for him something about the purpose of writing is being lost as books become solely about moral instruction, and therapy, with prepackaged messages and truths
Though that said I suspect we all read for differing purposes, to be entertained, to be challenged, to understand more of our selves, our experiences and our society, and I too find myself wanting to see the complex nature of the world in which live, on the pages I read (and for that matter the cinema screens too).
In many ways I agree with him, that it is good that people are reading, and if anything, Oprah’s show included, encourages people to read that’s a great thing. But for him something about the purpose of writing is being lost as books become solely about moral instruction, and therapy, with prepackaged messages and truths
“Real writing – good writing – does the opposite. It shows us the world as we have not seen it before. It can be frightening or wonderful. Its meanings reveal themselves gradually and often partially. It isn’t always clear but like a painting or photo or a piece of music you cannot put it out of your head, it forces you to try to make sense of what it is saying”For Bradley, writing is more than about a representation of thought, but a process of thought, ordering ideas that we might have a new way of seeing.
Though that said I suspect we all read for differing purposes, to be entertained, to be challenged, to understand more of our selves, our experiences and our society, and I too find myself wanting to see the complex nature of the world in which live, on the pages I read (and for that matter the cinema screens too).
Saturday, April 08, 2006
March of the Penguins
One of the more interesting films I have seen. March of the penguins shows the viewers a breathtaking part of God’s creation (that we may not be blessed to see).
The Emperor Penguins are beautiful birds, and their breeding ritual would be one of the more treacherous on earth, featuring a role-reversal where the male nurses and protects the egg//chick, while the mother goes and finds food). The film is wonderfully narrated by Morgan Freeman.
I really enjoyed the film, while I marveled at the bird’s ability to survive in these extreme conditions year in and year out. I pondered the fact that people also were there to shot this footage (who you see through the end credits).
++
I read a really interesting book review in the ALD last week. Apparently the least visited memorial in Washington is a waterfront statue commemorating the men who died on the Titanic. Seventy-four per cent of the women passengers survived while 80 per cent of the men perished in the disaster; I’m not so sure the numbers would be the same today. It is interesting thinking thought about the place of gallantry and trying to understand what it means to be a man.
The Emperor Penguins are beautiful birds, and their breeding ritual would be one of the more treacherous on earth, featuring a role-reversal where the male nurses and protects the egg//chick, while the mother goes and finds food). The film is wonderfully narrated by Morgan Freeman.
I really enjoyed the film, while I marveled at the bird’s ability to survive in these extreme conditions year in and year out. I pondered the fact that people also were there to shot this footage (who you see through the end credits).
++
I read a really interesting book review in the ALD last week. Apparently the least visited memorial in Washington is a waterfront statue commemorating the men who died on the Titanic. Seventy-four per cent of the women passengers survived while 80 per cent of the men perished in the disaster; I’m not so sure the numbers would be the same today. It is interesting thinking thought about the place of gallantry and trying to understand what it means to be a man.
Saturday, April 01, 2006
Into the Arms of America...
Late last year, I spent a lovely few weeks with my sister travelling around the United States. I really love Washington D.C. While I walked around the city, I could not help but think that I was walking around a movie set, and its rich history and heritage just leap out at you. As I sat there, I saw and heard the sounds of protestors marching, singing and letting their voice be heard.More thoughts from my trip will follow.
Lots of little randomness
It has been a long time between posts, maybe too long. There’s a lot to catch up on, but I think both you and I would be thankful that it is not my desire to recap the last six weeks or so in full and send you all to sleep but just bullet a few things.
Today Fi, LJ and I were to be at U2’s second Sydney show, though I can understand why they've postponed. April is a good month for concerts with Sigur Ros and James Blunt to look forward to (and further off is Belle and Sebastian). Fi bought me B&S’s The Life Pursuit, and I’ve been listening to that and The Whitlam’s Little Cloud (with The Apple's Eye), and enjoying them both.
It is great to say that I am settling into Barneys. Fi and I are attending a bible study on Wednesday nights; one that is surprisingly close to Kensington/Kingsford given that church is in Broadway. We both feel that we are getting to know people, and I find the preaching challenging faithful, and the service familiar. It will be great to be going to what feels like our church on Good Friday.
This feels like its turning to into quite list of blessings – but I enjoyed catching up with Guan and Karen at Matthias Media on Monday, and last night I was able to see my brothers and sisters from St Augustines who I hadn’t seen for a too long, and and I’m looking forward to catching up with Joe and Carly this week.
The list of movies to see continues to grow, I'm really looking forward to seeing March of the Penguins and V for Vendetta.
The AFL season started this weekend, and I'll be interested to see how the Swans go.
Today Fi, LJ and I were to be at U2’s second Sydney show, though I can understand why they've postponed. April is a good month for concerts with Sigur Ros and James Blunt to look forward to (and further off is Belle and Sebastian). Fi bought me B&S’s The Life Pursuit, and I’ve been listening to that and The Whitlam’s Little Cloud (with The Apple's Eye), and enjoying them both.
It is great to say that I am settling into Barneys. Fi and I are attending a bible study on Wednesday nights; one that is surprisingly close to Kensington/Kingsford given that church is in Broadway. We both feel that we are getting to know people, and I find the preaching challenging faithful, and the service familiar. It will be great to be going to what feels like our church on Good Friday.
This feels like its turning to into quite list of blessings – but I enjoyed catching up with Guan and Karen at Matthias Media on Monday, and last night I was able to see my brothers and sisters from St Augustines who I hadn’t seen for a too long, and and I’m looking forward to catching up with Joe and Carly this week.
The list of movies to see continues to grow, I'm really looking forward to seeing March of the Penguins and V for Vendetta.
The AFL season started this weekend, and I'll be interested to see how the Swans go.
Tuesday, March 14, 2006
Links:
What the??.
From the fall-out. Ricky Ponting really impressed me in how he handled himself. Ponting (160 from 105 balls), and Gibbs (175 from 111 balls) were jointly awarded Man of the Match, and Ponting declined to accept, as he believed Herschelle Gibbs to be the Man of the Match.
Denton interviews Bono on Enough Rope (well worth a read)
From the fall-out. Ricky Ponting really impressed me in how he handled himself. Ponting (160 from 105 balls), and Gibbs (175 from 111 balls) were jointly awarded Man of the Match, and Ponting declined to accept, as he believed Herschelle Gibbs to be the Man of the Match.
Denton interviews Bono on Enough Rope (well worth a read)
Sunday, March 12, 2006
A place to belong
I’ve been thinking about church over the past few weeks, mainly thinking about what it means to be part of a community of believers. I think we need to pour as much energy into making our churches communities as we spend in teaching and exhorting people to evangelism.
Here are a few questions that have been on my mind.
:: As we see our brothers and sisters struggle with issues in their faith, how well do we encourage, support and equip them to answer the questions they may have of their faith.
:: As I think of those who come to church for the first time, how do nourish their faith, and integrate them into our churches.
:: As we look at our pastors I wonder how well we equip and encourage them in their own walk with Christ, and as the minister to each of us, each Sunday.
It seems to me this is where we need to work the hardest. While we always seem to have people joining our congregations, I’m equally sure that some of these people, find a back door to leave, perhaps without anyone noticing. While we are encouraged by the fact that many more people are coming into our churches, we need to learn how to be a community of believers.
I think for me I need to begin where I can, in me, I think it is about seeking or striving to be open. Sure it might be a two-way street – but it begins with me. It begins with a heart willing and able to serve however, and wherever it is needed, none of this is to say that it is easy - it is hard work, it is a struggle for me, but it will be worth it.
Here are a few questions that have been on my mind.
:: As we see our brothers and sisters struggle with issues in their faith, how well do we encourage, support and equip them to answer the questions they may have of their faith.
:: As I think of those who come to church for the first time, how do nourish their faith, and integrate them into our churches.
:: As we look at our pastors I wonder how well we equip and encourage them in their own walk with Christ, and as the minister to each of us, each Sunday.
It seems to me this is where we need to work the hardest. While we always seem to have people joining our congregations, I’m equally sure that some of these people, find a back door to leave, perhaps without anyone noticing. While we are encouraged by the fact that many more people are coming into our churches, we need to learn how to be a community of believers.
I think for me I need to begin where I can, in me, I think it is about seeking or striving to be open. Sure it might be a two-way street – but it begins with me. It begins with a heart willing and able to serve however, and wherever it is needed, none of this is to say that it is easy - it is hard work, it is a struggle for me, but it will be worth it.
Saturday, March 11, 2006
Ole Ole Ole
We went and saw Goal! last night.
The film charts the journey of a soccer prodigy Santiago Munez who is seen playing football in a park in Los Angeles, and ends up trialing for Newcastle United.
The film lifts you, as you ride with Santiago through the fortune and misfortune of his life. Beginning with an unsupportive father, to an aggressive Centre back, through to the highs of playing for the reserves, to being brought on as a substitute and finally starting for the Newcastle club, in the clichéd must win game, in which he scores the match-winner. There is a romance about football, and it transfered beautifully to the screen. (maybe this is just a guy-type-thing).
It is worth a look, if you are looking for a feel good movie.
+ + +
I was quite pleasantly surprised by the Oscars last week – I was particularly delighted to see that Crash won the award for Best Picture. I thought it was quite a fascinating, original and confronting film. I thought it deserved to be recognised.
The film charts the journey of a soccer prodigy Santiago Munez who is seen playing football in a park in Los Angeles, and ends up trialing for Newcastle United.
The film lifts you, as you ride with Santiago through the fortune and misfortune of his life. Beginning with an unsupportive father, to an aggressive Centre back, through to the highs of playing for the reserves, to being brought on as a substitute and finally starting for the Newcastle club, in the clichéd must win game, in which he scores the match-winner. There is a romance about football, and it transfered beautifully to the screen. (maybe this is just a guy-type-thing).
It is worth a look, if you are looking for a feel good movie.
+ + +
I was quite pleasantly surprised by the Oscars last week – I was particularly delighted to see that Crash won the award for Best Picture. I thought it was quite a fascinating, original and confronting film. I thought it deserved to be recognised.
Men’s Convention 2006
Friday night I headed up to Katoomba in the Blue Mountains for Men’s Convention with a group of men from Unichurch (UNSW). First thanks to Marty for organising it all. Friday was quite strange, as I was not really sure I wanted to go, I felt I like I needed a little bit of time for me, and not spend time heading away. I guess its funny, though perhaps not surprising, that I left thinking it was what I needed.
While we headed into the Blue Mountains, we were reminded of another group of disciples of Jesus, who heard a different sermon, on a different mountain.
It’s worth noting two things about the Sermon on the Mount: firstly it is directed at Christians, about how to live in the Kingdom, and for the King; not about how getting into kingdom.
Secondly, the sermon is perhaps not so much one sermon that Jesus gave in one setting, rather a summary of the teaching of Jesus.
Though there was nothing particularly new or revolutionary mentioned, each of them challenged us to be who we are, here's a glimpse about what caught my eye:
Who We Are?
We are blessed, we are poor in spirit. We are powerless without our God. We are unable to save ourselves, and we depend on God for our salvation. The beatitudes are however about more than our identity, they are about our destiny.
The question on my heart is how well do I know my Father, how well do I know my identity, do I mourn for sin, and hunger for righteousness.
The Unheeded Christ
Michael Hart wrote a book about the world's 100 most influential people. His list was topped by Mohammed, and anticipating our objection, he commented with: Mohammed has more influence over his followers than Jesus.
I was challenged to focus not only on how I act, but on my attitude -and my attitude to others, should not be impacted by there attitude to me.
A life lived in Secret
We are playing before an audience of one. The audience of one; from whom no secrets are hidden, one who knows our hearts and minds; one who knows each of our words, thoughts, and deeds.
There is something both liberating, and fearful about ‘playing before the audience of one’. It liberates us from the expectations of others; both it is a fearful thing knowing that God knows all of the ‘secrets of our hearts’.
Our profession must matches our confession, we are to be men of unfalteringly integrity.
Tin Shed: Role-play
Something Al Stewart mentioned during the panel has resonated with me; we need to work out our priorities and arrange our time around them. In other words what we value, we will have time for.
Relationships: Three thoughts
We won’t understand Marriage without reference to Christ; we won’t understand Christ without understanding the Cross; so, we therefore won’t understand marriage withoutunderstanding the Cross.
Two Ways ...
We can listen, but not adhere; we can be challenged but not change, and we can be informed, without being transformed.
If we go away from the word of God without being transformed by the Word of God, we are in a worse place than when we started.
In some ways, the easy thing is going up the mountain to Katoomba and hearing faithful speakers faithfully teach God's word and being surrounded by encouraging brothers; the harder thing is taking off the name tag, and heading down the mountain, and back to our lives and struggling to live out the life to which we are called.
While we headed into the Blue Mountains, we were reminded of another group of disciples of Jesus, who heard a different sermon, on a different mountain.
It’s worth noting two things about the Sermon on the Mount: firstly it is directed at Christians, about how to live in the Kingdom, and for the King; not about how getting into kingdom.
Secondly, the sermon is perhaps not so much one sermon that Jesus gave in one setting, rather a summary of the teaching of Jesus.
Though there was nothing particularly new or revolutionary mentioned, each of them challenged us to be who we are, here's a glimpse about what caught my eye:
Who We Are?
We are blessed, we are poor in spirit. We are powerless without our God. We are unable to save ourselves, and we depend on God for our salvation. The beatitudes are however about more than our identity, they are about our destiny.
The question on my heart is how well do I know my Father, how well do I know my identity, do I mourn for sin, and hunger for righteousness.
The Unheeded Christ
Michael Hart wrote a book about the world's 100 most influential people. His list was topped by Mohammed, and anticipating our objection, he commented with: Mohammed has more influence over his followers than Jesus.
I was challenged to focus not only on how I act, but on my attitude -and my attitude to others, should not be impacted by there attitude to me.
A life lived in Secret
We are playing before an audience of one. The audience of one; from whom no secrets are hidden, one who knows our hearts and minds; one who knows each of our words, thoughts, and deeds.
There is something both liberating, and fearful about ‘playing before the audience of one’. It liberates us from the expectations of others; both it is a fearful thing knowing that God knows all of the ‘secrets of our hearts’.
Our profession must matches our confession, we are to be men of unfalteringly integrity.
Tin Shed: Role-play
Something Al Stewart mentioned during the panel has resonated with me; we need to work out our priorities and arrange our time around them. In other words what we value, we will have time for.
Relationships: Three thoughts
We won’t understand Marriage without reference to Christ; we won’t understand Christ without understanding the Cross; so, we therefore won’t understand marriage withoutunderstanding the Cross.
Two Ways ...
We can listen, but not adhere; we can be challenged but not change, and we can be informed, without being transformed.
If we go away from the word of God without being transformed by the Word of God, we are in a worse place than when we started.
In some ways, the easy thing is going up the mountain to Katoomba and hearing faithful speakers faithfully teach God's word and being surrounded by encouraging brothers; the harder thing is taking off the name tag, and heading down the mountain, and back to our lives and struggling to live out the life to which we are called.
Tuesday, February 21, 2006
Another quiz
[Johari]
My brother, did one of these on his blog, so I thought that I'd follow suit. Here is my Johari.
My brother, did one of these on his blog, so I thought that I'd follow suit. Here is my Johari.
Sunday, February 19, 2006
A Moment in Sport
Here are Australian's Top 10 Sporting Moments:
Equal 8-10. Rod Laver; Swans' 2005 grand final win; World Series Cricket
7. Phar Lap
6. Kieren Perkins's win in Atlanta 1996
5. Cathy Freeman's gold in Sydney
4. Anything Bradman
3. Socceroos qualifying for the 2006 World Cup
2. Sydney 2000
1. Australia II's America's Cup victory
I found this list quite interesting. Particularly owing to the absence of Women Sports stars who are absent from this list (however some are mentioned in the article). Most noticeably to me were the Hockyroos (three consective Olympic Gold Medals); Dawn Fraser, Evonne Goolagong-Cawley, Shirly Strickland, Shane Gould, and more recently Susie O'Neil.
Equal 8-10. Rod Laver; Swans' 2005 grand final win; World Series Cricket
7. Phar Lap
6. Kieren Perkins's win in Atlanta 1996
5. Cathy Freeman's gold in Sydney
4. Anything Bradman
3. Socceroos qualifying for the 2006 World Cup
2. Sydney 2000
1. Australia II's America's Cup victory
I found this list quite interesting. Particularly owing to the absence of Women Sports stars who are absent from this list (however some are mentioned in the article). Most noticeably to me were the Hockyroos (three consective Olympic Gold Medals); Dawn Fraser, Evonne Goolagong-Cawley, Shirly Strickland, Shane Gould, and more recently Susie O'Neil.
Hurt
I became quite a fan of Cash’s music through the movie Walk the Line. Johnny Cash recorded the Nine Inch Nails song Hurt in 2002. Hurt is an amazingly sad song, and the song repainted the film when I listened to it after the film.
I hurt myself todayI recently found a copy of the video of the song, which features footage from Cash's life glimpses of the cruxifiction scene and the Last Supper. It is quite an powerful, emotive clip.
To see if I still feel
I focus on the pain
The only thing that's real
The needle tears a hold
The old familiar sting
Try to kill it all away
But I remember everything
What have I become
My sweetest friend
Everyone I know goes away
In the end
And you could have it all
My empire of dirt
I will let you down
I will make you hurt
I wear this crown of thorns
Upon my liar's chair
Full of broken thoughts
I cannot repair
Beneath the stains of time
The feelings disappear
You are someone else
I am still right here
What have I become
My sweetest friend
Everyone I know goes away
In the end
And you could have it all
My empire of dirt
I will let you down
I will make you hurt
If I could start again
A million miles away
I would keep myself
I would find a way
Saturday, February 11, 2006
The Week that Was
Well here we are its the weekend again. This time last week I was at St. Andrews witnessing a few of my friends become deacons. May they in God's strength continue to hold fast to the Gospel of our Lord. (The sermon is available online here). Afterwards it was off to Centannial Park to see Bucksman. May God richly bless his marriage, (and wedding this time next weekend). I'm off to see R and K get married this afternoon which will be great.
Monday night we caught up with people from my bible-study group last year. It was great fun to catch up over dinner. I really enjoyed studying the bible with those guys last year. So thanks to you all~!
We are now back to Netball, this was our second week. It was great fun as always. Strangely though, we've had two forfeits in the two weeks we've been back.
That's about all the happenings of the last week. I am looking forward to meeting more people from Barneys at a pre-church dinner tomorrow.
Two interesting sport-related points.
:: Ul Haq (obstructing the field) ... 16
Only three batsmen have been dismissed this way.
:: During the one-dayer between Australia and Sri Lanka yesterday evening, five batsmen were run out, I can't help but wonder when the last time five Australian's were runout in one innings. (Aside: The fact that the game was won by Sri Lanka means we might have a competitive series)
Random Ten
Here's a blast from the past, I think I did a Random 10 this time last year, so here is a Random 10 tracks from my colletion.
1) There is a Redeemer - Michelle Tumes
Your Love Broke Through: The Worship Songs of Keith Green)
2) Miracle Drug - U2
Live - East Rutherford 5.15.05
3) The Lord is My Shepard - Charlie Hall and Joanne Hogg
Your Love Broke Through: The Worship Songs of Keith Green)
4) I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For//In A Litte While - U2
Live - Montreal 11.26.05
5) Party Girl - U2
Live - Boston Orpheum 5.6.83
6) Momentum - Aimee Mann
Magnolia (Original Soundtrack)
7) Amelia (Orchestral Version) - Joni Mitchell
Dreamland
8) Wake up - The Arcade Fire
Live - Montreal 11.26.05
9) I Will Follow - U2
Live Syracuse 10.9.87
10) Pride (In The Name of Love) - U2
Live 12.31.89
Note:
I guess this more or less accurate reflects my collection. Though it might also highlight how un-random shuffle can be as I ended up with two songs from the same Keith Green tribute CD. However is not really evidence that I have a diverse range of music tastes ;) The list contains 6 from U2, and 7 from U2 Concerts. I guess at least, of the 6 U2 songs, I have no duplicates and a bonus :)
Monday night we caught up with people from my bible-study group last year. It was great fun to catch up over dinner. I really enjoyed studying the bible with those guys last year. So thanks to you all~!
We are now back to Netball, this was our second week. It was great fun as always. Strangely though, we've had two forfeits in the two weeks we've been back.
That's about all the happenings of the last week. I am looking forward to meeting more people from Barneys at a pre-church dinner tomorrow.
Two interesting sport-related points.
:: Ul Haq (obstructing the field) ... 16
Only three batsmen have been dismissed this way.
:: During the one-dayer between Australia and Sri Lanka yesterday evening, five batsmen were run out, I can't help but wonder when the last time five Australian's were runout in one innings. (Aside: The fact that the game was won by Sri Lanka means we might have a competitive series)
Random Ten
Here's a blast from the past, I think I did a Random 10 this time last year, so here is a Random 10 tracks from my colletion.
1) There is a Redeemer - Michelle Tumes
Your Love Broke Through: The Worship Songs of Keith Green)
2) Miracle Drug - U2
Live - East Rutherford 5.15.05
3) The Lord is My Shepard - Charlie Hall and Joanne Hogg
Your Love Broke Through: The Worship Songs of Keith Green)
4) I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For//In A Litte While - U2
Live - Montreal 11.26.05
5) Party Girl - U2
Live - Boston Orpheum 5.6.83
6) Momentum - Aimee Mann
Magnolia (Original Soundtrack)
7) Amelia (Orchestral Version) - Joni Mitchell
Dreamland
8) Wake up - The Arcade Fire
Live - Montreal 11.26.05
9) I Will Follow - U2
Live Syracuse 10.9.87
10) Pride (In The Name of Love) - U2
Live 12.31.89
Note:
I guess this more or less accurate reflects my collection. Though it might also highlight how un-random shuffle can be as I ended up with two songs from the same Keith Green tribute CD. However is not really evidence that I have a diverse range of music tastes ;) The list contains 6 from U2, and 7 from U2 Concerts. I guess at least, of the 6 U2 songs, I have no duplicates and a bonus :)
Wednesday, February 08, 2006
… I Walk the Line …
Friday night, we saw the new biopic Walk the Line, about Johnny Cash. I have to admit to start that I actually knew very little about Johnny Cash, and what I did know was that Bono, and the boys of U2 were big fans, Cash providing lead vocals for a track on U2’s 1993 Zooropa album (The Wanderer). After seeing the preview for the film a little earlier in the year, I decided that it would be a good picture to have a look at. I wasn’t disappointed. After seeing the film, I bought the soundtrack which featured the songs, sung by the cast, which sounded great.
The film begins at the concert in Folsom Prison, with Cash (Joaquin Phoenix) about to go onstage, then flashes back to the days on his parent’s farm, through to his second marriage, to June Carter (Reese Witherspoon). It is a sad and honest story, filled with heartache; the death of his brother in a saw mill accident, his estrangement from his father, his failed marriage to his first wife, Vivian and drug-addiction, but containing some memorable highs of Cash’s life too (the concert in Folsom Prison).
The subtle references to Cash’s songs in the film were beautifully done, from Cash writing Folsom Prison Blues while in the airforce, and walking pass a boy shinning shoes (Get Rhythm) and Carter beginning to write Ring of Fire. The stage chemistry between Carter and Cash was fantastic especially when they covered Dylan’s It Ain’t Me, Babe. Cash proposed to Carter on stage, and it did make me wonder what their marriage would be like – yet history tells us they remained married until Carter’s death in 2003.
Does the film downplay the fact that Cash was a Christian? Perhaps, but I’m not sure I mind. Glimpses of his faith are seen in the film; including comments he makes before the concert at Folsom Prison about Christians turned off by him singing in the prison were not really Christians and (a scene which lasted longer in F’s memory than in mine); after a tractor accident on his property, where he falls into the lake, Cash says he needs to visit his Father, and we see him walk into church.
I wonder if there is something to be said for leaving it subtle so viewers can explore the story on their own.
The film begins at the concert in Folsom Prison, with Cash (Joaquin Phoenix) about to go onstage, then flashes back to the days on his parent’s farm, through to his second marriage, to June Carter (Reese Witherspoon). It is a sad and honest story, filled with heartache; the death of his brother in a saw mill accident, his estrangement from his father, his failed marriage to his first wife, Vivian and drug-addiction, but containing some memorable highs of Cash’s life too (the concert in Folsom Prison).
The subtle references to Cash’s songs in the film were beautifully done, from Cash writing Folsom Prison Blues while in the airforce, and walking pass a boy shinning shoes (Get Rhythm) and Carter beginning to write Ring of Fire. The stage chemistry between Carter and Cash was fantastic especially when they covered Dylan’s It Ain’t Me, Babe. Cash proposed to Carter on stage, and it did make me wonder what their marriage would be like – yet history tells us they remained married until Carter’s death in 2003.
Does the film downplay the fact that Cash was a Christian? Perhaps, but I’m not sure I mind. Glimpses of his faith are seen in the film; including comments he makes before the concert at Folsom Prison about Christians turned off by him singing in the prison were not really Christians and (a scene which lasted longer in F’s memory than in mine); after a tractor accident on his property, where he falls into the lake, Cash says he needs to visit his Father, and we see him walk into church.
I wonder if there is something to be said for leaving it subtle so viewers can explore the story on their own.
Friday, February 03, 2006
Thursday, February 02, 2006
Interesting facts about this years Oscar Nominations
(Courtesy of The Australian)
The combined takings of all five best-picture contenders are so far less than the $US114million ($152 million).
The 10 most watched films in the US last year received only 10 nominations between them, and most of those were in craft categories.
Munich, which cost $US68 million to make, could have paid for Brokeback Mountain $US13.9 million. Good Night, and Good Luck (US$7.5million), Crash ($US6.5million) and Capote ($US6.7million).
For those interested: Here is a list of full nominations, and the SMH's take on the contenders.
The combined takings of all five best-picture contenders are so far less than the $US114million ($152 million).
The 10 most watched films in the US last year received only 10 nominations between them, and most of those were in craft categories.
Munich, which cost $US68 million to make, could have paid for Brokeback Mountain $US13.9 million. Good Night, and Good Luck (US$7.5million), Crash ($US6.5million) and Capote ($US6.7million).
For those interested: Here is a list of full nominations, and the SMH's take on the contenders.
Tribal Mind – Tribal Response
I guess I learnt something about the Internet recently; a few Sunday's ago, David Dale, talked about the nature and values of Australia from the National Anthem. I understand that most of the information he used came from the ABS. What I found interesting was the passion in the responses to his article; I found the extent to which David was personally attacked for his views quite amazing: He was un-Australian; he should leave.
For the above reason, I find the 'Your Say' responses, a very interesting (and perhaps frustrating) part of the paper to read. Not only because I often find myself as part of minority but mainly because of the verocity of the responses.
Perhaps I shouldn't be surprised because it is simply part of the median – it provides an opportunity for a quick, emotional response to a topic.
++
After seven seasons The West Wing will end. The current season [7th] in the US is the last one. Being honest, I never really thought that it could continue into another presidency, because the staff would be changing, and they would have to build up the viewers loyalty to another President.
I have been recently watching the first few episodes of the Fifth Season, and had wondered how difficult it would be to keep the momentum of the show going while retaining the realism that made the show so great through a Second term. I like the idea of ending with all the original cast together, perhaps after Leo’s funeral reminiscing and playing poker. We'll see; but I for one will miss The West Wing.
For the above reason, I find the 'Your Say' responses, a very interesting (and perhaps frustrating) part of the paper to read. Not only because I often find myself as part of minority but mainly because of the verocity of the responses.
Perhaps I shouldn't be surprised because it is simply part of the median – it provides an opportunity for a quick, emotional response to a topic.
++
After seven seasons The West Wing will end. The current season [7th] in the US is the last one. Being honest, I never really thought that it could continue into another presidency, because the staff would be changing, and they would have to build up the viewers loyalty to another President.
I have been recently watching the first few episodes of the Fifth Season, and had wondered how difficult it would be to keep the momentum of the show going while retaining the realism that made the show so great through a Second term. I like the idea of ending with all the original cast together, perhaps after Leo’s funeral reminiscing and playing poker. We'll see; but I for one will miss The West Wing.
Wednesday, January 25, 2006
Two Seasons a Year – Off and On
I went out to the Open Air Cinema at Mrs Macquarie’s Chair for the first time, F and I saw The Perfect Catch (for those familiar with the story – its not about me). I do wonder why they changed the title for Australia.
The film is about a love triangle, where the third party is sport. Though it is not a sports film, it is a film about relationships. While Ben is the sports tragic, Lindsey is career driven making for a very interesting relationship.
The film is inspired by Fever Pitch [Nick Hornby, who also wrote High Fidelity and About a Boy]. The book details Nick’s relationship with Arsenal FC, and is worth a read. Though, the film only draws from an episode from the book. Both the book and the film give an interesting and realistic take on why men become fascinated with sport.
One of the classical conversations is when Lindsey and her girlfriends wonder where he has been; why he was single. Ben’s secret of course that he is a Red-Sox fan (one of God’s more pitiful creations). I don’t really have much doubt that there are people out there as ‘into’ their team as Ben.
I guess it is worth noting the film did not originally end with the Red-Sox winning the World Series, (which makes for a little too perfect ending). Though having said that, the Red Sox did actually win the World Series in 2005 (breaking an 80 year hoodoo)
I think the film is worth having a look at. Leaving the film aside I definitely liked the setting, and would quite happily go to the movies at Mrs Macquarie’s Chair again.
The film is about a love triangle, where the third party is sport. Though it is not a sports film, it is a film about relationships. While Ben is the sports tragic, Lindsey is career driven making for a very interesting relationship.
The film is inspired by Fever Pitch [Nick Hornby, who also wrote High Fidelity and About a Boy]. The book details Nick’s relationship with Arsenal FC, and is worth a read. Though, the film only draws from an episode from the book. Both the book and the film give an interesting and realistic take on why men become fascinated with sport.
One of the classical conversations is when Lindsey and her girlfriends wonder where he has been; why he was single. Ben’s secret of course that he is a Red-Sox fan (one of God’s more pitiful creations). I don’t really have much doubt that there are people out there as ‘into’ their team as Ben.
I guess it is worth noting the film did not originally end with the Red-Sox winning the World Series, (which makes for a little too perfect ending). Though having said that, the Red Sox did actually win the World Series in 2005 (breaking an 80 year hoodoo)
I think the film is worth having a look at. Leaving the film aside I definitely liked the setting, and would quite happily go to the movies at Mrs Macquarie’s Chair again.
Saturday, January 07, 2006
Music of My Soul
One of the things I deeply love is music, and I’ve become passionate about Christian Music; but I wasn’t always like this, I guess I thought I would think of Christian music as quite bad. I was wrong.
Through a number of years I spent in a chat-room hosted on Rebecca St. James website I was introduced to the variety of Christian bands. So given that it is about 10 years since I started visiting that chat-room I thought that I would give a list of 10 Christian CD’s that I think are worth picking up whether you are familiar with Christian Music or not. I’m not going to rate these in any order (because taste is subjective).
I first heard some of these artists on a mix-tape that Karen B. [thanks, and I've probably almost worn the tape out ;)] did for me (exceptions are Switchfoot (AWTR), Nichole Nordeman (Matthew), and The Normals (RSJ-Chat).
Note: I’ve decided that the few greatest hits or worship cds I own are ineligible – the only unlucky CDs, Newsboys – Shine, Keith Green (the collections), and the City on a Hill projects (many of the artists on this list have songs on the City on a Hill projects).
Jars of Clay – Self-titled
On the basis of Worlds Apart which remains my favourite Christian song (the live version is absolutely amazing). But the CD remains to me as fresh now as it was when I bought it.
Nichole Nordemann – Wide-Eyed (or Woven and Spun)
Consistently my favourite singer-songwriter, each of her albums offers a different and honest view of her Christian-life. Nichole isn’t afraid to ask questions, and this is perhaps her greatest strength.
The Normals – Coming to Life
We are the Beggars at the Foot of God’s Door , Coming to Life, combine fantastic song-writing, with a tight musical sound. Unfortunately like a few on this list The Normals are no longer together as a band,
Third Day – Wire
Could possibly have gone with the first self-titled CD, but I think they continue to grow as a band with every release. I have often thought Mac Powell has a similar voice to the lead singer of Hootie and the Blowfish. I guess you would call their style traditional southern rock. Wire is I think the most rich lyrically of their collection.
Jennifer Knapp – Lay it Down
I first heard Jennifer Knapp at the Harvest Crusades, and really loved her voice. She has such a rich expressive voice. Her song writing is quite good. Though I think she is another who is no longer producing CDs.
Switchfoot – The Beautiful Letdown
Provides a(nother) reason why watching ‘chick-flicks’ is good for you; their songs on the soundtrack to A Walk to Remember, first captured my interest. On Fire is reason alone to buy their CD. Only Hope, from the movie is another of their great songs – though it is on the soundtrack, and A New Way to be Human
Rebecca St James – God (or Transform)
Ironically, I think this is the artist I hesitated most over. But each of these CDs contains great and original songwriting, and equal numbers of my favourite songs. But I think God perhaps speaks to me a little more.
Sarah Masen – The Holding
I was captivated by the lyrics and her sound, mostly – acoustic guitar. It is simply a beautiful album.
“In Him I find the hope to walk on down that dark narrow road”.
Clear – Clear
The tracks on this CD cover a variety of themes – their take on Ecclesiastes (Chasing After the Wind); Evangelism (Why) and the perhaps my favourite song (What Your Grace Can Do).
Nouveaux – […] And this is how I feel
The first song I heard from this was Maybe Tomorrow, which is a beautiful song about waiting for love. “No one else to hold on to // until I’m holding you”. But the song that really grabbed, and continues to grab onto me – You Breathe – Father You Breathe and I hear you whispering // and your mercies carry me // Father you breathe and your presence fills the air // and I find my solace there.
Through a number of years I spent in a chat-room hosted on Rebecca St. James website I was introduced to the variety of Christian bands. So given that it is about 10 years since I started visiting that chat-room I thought that I would give a list of 10 Christian CD’s that I think are worth picking up whether you are familiar with Christian Music or not. I’m not going to rate these in any order (because taste is subjective).
I first heard some of these artists on a mix-tape that Karen B. [thanks, and I've probably almost worn the tape out ;)] did for me (exceptions are Switchfoot (AWTR), Nichole Nordeman (Matthew), and The Normals (RSJ-Chat).
Note: I’ve decided that the few greatest hits or worship cds I own are ineligible – the only unlucky CDs, Newsboys – Shine, Keith Green (the collections), and the City on a Hill projects (many of the artists on this list have songs on the City on a Hill projects).
Jars of Clay – Self-titled
On the basis of Worlds Apart which remains my favourite Christian song (the live version is absolutely amazing). But the CD remains to me as fresh now as it was when I bought it.
Nichole Nordemann – Wide-Eyed (or Woven and Spun)
Consistently my favourite singer-songwriter, each of her albums offers a different and honest view of her Christian-life. Nichole isn’t afraid to ask questions, and this is perhaps her greatest strength.
The Normals – Coming to Life
We are the Beggars at the Foot of God’s Door , Coming to Life, combine fantastic song-writing, with a tight musical sound. Unfortunately like a few on this list The Normals are no longer together as a band,
Third Day – Wire
Could possibly have gone with the first self-titled CD, but I think they continue to grow as a band with every release. I have often thought Mac Powell has a similar voice to the lead singer of Hootie and the Blowfish. I guess you would call their style traditional southern rock. Wire is I think the most rich lyrically of their collection.
Jennifer Knapp – Lay it Down
I first heard Jennifer Knapp at the Harvest Crusades, and really loved her voice. She has such a rich expressive voice. Her song writing is quite good. Though I think she is another who is no longer producing CDs.
Switchfoot – The Beautiful Letdown
Provides a(nother) reason why watching ‘chick-flicks’ is good for you; their songs on the soundtrack to A Walk to Remember, first captured my interest. On Fire is reason alone to buy their CD. Only Hope, from the movie is another of their great songs – though it is on the soundtrack, and A New Way to be Human
Rebecca St James – God (or Transform)
Ironically, I think this is the artist I hesitated most over. But each of these CDs contains great and original songwriting, and equal numbers of my favourite songs. But I think God perhaps speaks to me a little more.
Sarah Masen – The Holding
I was captivated by the lyrics and her sound, mostly – acoustic guitar. It is simply a beautiful album.
“In Him I find the hope to walk on down that dark narrow road”.
Clear – Clear
The tracks on this CD cover a variety of themes – their take on Ecclesiastes (Chasing After the Wind); Evangelism (Why) and the perhaps my favourite song (What Your Grace Can Do).
Nouveaux – […] And this is how I feel
The first song I heard from this was Maybe Tomorrow, which is a beautiful song about waiting for love. “No one else to hold on to // until I’m holding you”. But the song that really grabbed, and continues to grab onto me – You Breathe – Father You Breathe and I hear you whispering // and your mercies carry me // Father you breathe and your presence fills the air // and I find my solace there.
2005: What Made the Year that Was
Well, now that we have got a little more accustomed to 2006, I will post a bit more of some personal reflections of 2005. In summary, after quite a shaky start with work 2005 turned into a great year.
During 2005 I was struck by better nature of humanity – evident in the generosity of people responding to the Tsunami, and before Christmas I was struck by the Herald’s readers who paid for Jess Maulder, another potential, but unlikely, Australian of the Year, to go back to Thailand (where she was last Christmas) for the memorial. The earthquake in Kashmir resulted in Indian and Pakistani cooperation. But at the same time the darkside was all to easy to see.
2005 also reminded us that we are unable to control our world- the Tsunami, the Hurricane season in the Gulf of Mexico and the earthquake in Kashmir, being a few examples.
While I was rereading my diary for the year, I came across a list of what I was looking forward to in 2005, on that list (along with a concert or two) was my Gran’s 90th birthday, seeing my sister, and joining Community Bible Church, and no surprise that these were high on the list of highlights for 2005.
It was great to be able to go down to New Zealand and join with my family in celebrating her birthday. I always find these family gatherings quite hard, because we do not see our cousins all that often, but I always enjoy catching up with them, and great seeing how they have grown.
I think it was in March, Lynley and I decided that we would across to the US together, and our holiday was a high point of the year, as was her coming home just before Christmas. Having Christmas together as a family was fantastic.
I had resolved myself during the year to read through the entire bible each year, I did not achieve this. My bible reading has not been great this year, which is one thing that I am seeking to change in 2006.
I found it really great met up with three Korean guys from the morning congregation, we spent our time looking through the book of Philippians, which was quite rewarding for me.
Community Bible Church, was a great group of Godly Christian’s to be involved with, and I found the preaching to be quite challenging and confronting, but at the same time quite comforting, and encouraging. It is with a touch of sadness that I leave Unichurch and move to Barneys on Broadway. (F. and I will definitely miss the Graduate Bible Fellowship – and our bible study group at A+B’s)
The highlight of the year was one that this time last year I hadn’t expected, but the last 9 months or so with F. has been great. It is a blessing being able to spend time with each other and seeing our relationship grow. :)
So what does 2006 hold, I am not one really for resolutions, but I think looking ahead I would like to see my life reflect my faith my clearly, particularly in my relationships, with my family, my flatmates, and Fiona. I am looking forward to getting to know more of my brother’s and sisters at Barney’s and being able to encourage and minister to them, and I would like to read the bible once in the next 18 months, (or twice in three years), and more generally I would like to read and write more often. I intend to speak to people at University about the possibilities for my Masters so watch this space.
In 2006 I also am looking forward to the Australian Open Tennis, the World Cup (Australia’s first in 32 years); a few more concerts, and I am sure there will be other pleasant surprises through the course the year as well.
During 2005 I was struck by better nature of humanity – evident in the generosity of people responding to the Tsunami, and before Christmas I was struck by the Herald’s readers who paid for Jess Maulder, another potential, but unlikely, Australian of the Year, to go back to Thailand (where she was last Christmas) for the memorial. The earthquake in Kashmir resulted in Indian and Pakistani cooperation. But at the same time the darkside was all to easy to see.
2005 also reminded us that we are unable to control our world- the Tsunami, the Hurricane season in the Gulf of Mexico and the earthquake in Kashmir, being a few examples.
While I was rereading my diary for the year, I came across a list of what I was looking forward to in 2005, on that list (along with a concert or two) was my Gran’s 90th birthday, seeing my sister, and joining Community Bible Church, and no surprise that these were high on the list of highlights for 2005.
It was great to be able to go down to New Zealand and join with my family in celebrating her birthday. I always find these family gatherings quite hard, because we do not see our cousins all that often, but I always enjoy catching up with them, and great seeing how they have grown.
I think it was in March, Lynley and I decided that we would across to the US together, and our holiday was a high point of the year, as was her coming home just before Christmas. Having Christmas together as a family was fantastic.
I had resolved myself during the year to read through the entire bible each year, I did not achieve this. My bible reading has not been great this year, which is one thing that I am seeking to change in 2006.
I found it really great met up with three Korean guys from the morning congregation, we spent our time looking through the book of Philippians, which was quite rewarding for me.
Community Bible Church, was a great group of Godly Christian’s to be involved with, and I found the preaching to be quite challenging and confronting, but at the same time quite comforting, and encouraging. It is with a touch of sadness that I leave Unichurch and move to Barneys on Broadway. (F. and I will definitely miss the Graduate Bible Fellowship – and our bible study group at A+B’s)
The highlight of the year was one that this time last year I hadn’t expected, but the last 9 months or so with F. has been great. It is a blessing being able to spend time with each other and seeing our relationship grow. :)
So what does 2006 hold, I am not one really for resolutions, but I think looking ahead I would like to see my life reflect my faith my clearly, particularly in my relationships, with my family, my flatmates, and Fiona. I am looking forward to getting to know more of my brother’s and sisters at Barney’s and being able to encourage and minister to them, and I would like to read the bible once in the next 18 months, (or twice in three years), and more generally I would like to read and write more often. I intend to speak to people at University about the possibilities for my Masters so watch this space.
In 2006 I also am looking forward to the Australian Open Tennis, the World Cup (Australia’s first in 32 years); a few more concerts, and I am sure there will be other pleasant surprises through the course the year as well.
Monday, January 02, 2006
Making Poverty History
It was a banner year in 2005 for big speeches from global leaders about fighting third-world poverty. But if any of their promises are going to come close to being kept, 2006 must be a year of action [...] The world needs no more speeches in 2006 about global poverty. The six million children under 5 who die every year of diseases that can be easily and cheaply treated do not need more lofty goals. Nor do the 40 million young people still unable to go to school, or the 300 million Africans who lack access to clean water. The time for talking is over. Our resolution for the new year is to keep track of how many of last year's promises turn into something more than words.New York Times, January 1, 2006
+++
Today is Julian day 2453738 or if you prefer, January 2, 2006.
How to be Happy?
For those of you who resolved to be happier this year, Ross Gittins wrote an interesting article in today’s herald [sorry print issue only] – helpfully titled - ‘How to be Happy', he makes the unsurprisingly comment that it takes time, and hardly any money.
The question of happiness is one that Gittin’s often writes on, and unsurprisingly one that he receives a large volume of feedback about (because I guess we all want to be happier).
Again, perhaps another unsurprising thought that as we look out to our society we see a broken world, and realise that perhaps we are walking the wrong way. Our material wealth has not led us to subjective well-being.
As I read through the article, what I found most interesting (and perhaps I should not be that surprised) was that a lot of the research quoted in the article seemed to highlight biblical values. So, perhaps after all we are wired in a particular way.
The article makes the claim that it is from seeking to make other people happy we ourselves are likely to be happier. In I guess in some form of circle those who are helpful are more likely to be happy, and those who are happy are more likely to help.
Purpose and activity also assist, by giving us meaning. I thought this may be because they can provide a framework, by which we can explain the events of our lives.
It was interesting that when the article talked about “work” – it talked about doing things for their own value, not because you can, or feel you should, or you want the kudos that comes with it. In this sense, work will perhaps add to a sense of happiness.
Contentment or happiness leads us ‘success’ in relationships, work, and health, not the other way round. Clearly we can’t have it all if we want to keep a healthy life, we do need to chose, make priorities of what to do with our time.
The article is perhaps, filled with common sense type statements and claims, but I guess it only highlights how uncommon, common sense make actually be.
The question of happiness is one that Gittin’s often writes on, and unsurprisingly one that he receives a large volume of feedback about (because I guess we all want to be happier).
Again, perhaps another unsurprising thought that as we look out to our society we see a broken world, and realise that perhaps we are walking the wrong way. Our material wealth has not led us to subjective well-being.
As I read through the article, what I found most interesting (and perhaps I should not be that surprised) was that a lot of the research quoted in the article seemed to highlight biblical values. So, perhaps after all we are wired in a particular way.
The article makes the claim that it is from seeking to make other people happy we ourselves are likely to be happier. In I guess in some form of circle those who are helpful are more likely to be happy, and those who are happy are more likely to help.
Purpose and activity also assist, by giving us meaning. I thought this may be because they can provide a framework, by which we can explain the events of our lives.
It was interesting that when the article talked about “work” – it talked about doing things for their own value, not because you can, or feel you should, or you want the kudos that comes with it. In this sense, work will perhaps add to a sense of happiness.
Contentment or happiness leads us ‘success’ in relationships, work, and health, not the other way round. Clearly we can’t have it all if we want to keep a healthy life, we do need to chose, make priorities of what to do with our time.
The article is perhaps, filled with common sense type statements and claims, but I guess it only highlights how uncommon, common sense make actually be.
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