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.
Saturday, August 05, 2006
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
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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.
Sunday, January 01, 2006
Drawn From Still Water Favourite 5 CDs for 2005
It hasn’t been a bad year, but a lot of the CD’s I have bought this year were released prior to 2005. I’m not sure whether I should count tribute CDs, but She Will Have Her Way a tribute CD to the music of Neil and Tim Finn is great.
Honorable mentions: Bright Eyes – Digitial Ash and a Digital Urn, and Jars of Clay – Redemption Songs.
Unrated: Third Day – Whereever you Are, Rebecca St James – If I Had One Chance to Tell You Something. Sufjan Stevens - Illinoise
5: Coldplay – X and Y
I have to say this was one of the more anticipated CDs being released this year. I quite liked their previous CD. However while X&Y does have a number of great tracks; Fix You, A Message, Square One, it does grab you, or depart much from their earlier work.
4: Switchfoot – Nothing is Sound
The CD was mostly written on the tour over the last twelve months, and has been spending a fair bit of time in my CD player. I am quite a fan of the songwriting. The band’s faith is a little less on their sleeve, but is still apparent. A couple of the standout tracks are ‘The Shadow Proves the Sunshine’, and ‘The Blues’. Its quite worth a listen, but give it time to grow.
3: Sigur Ros - Takk
What do I say about Sigur Ros. Thanks Guan, for introducing me to their music in 2004. Thanks Joe for letting me they were playing shows in August this year; quite a phenomenal show. Takk has been described as their most accessible CD. I’m not sure about that, but their songs are great. I really loved Hoppipoka, Milano and Glosoli. It is hard to describe what sort of music Sigur Ros is, I guess atmospheric is not quite there but it is close.
If you haven’t got tickets for their shows in April next year – get them, I don’t think you will regret it.
2: Nichole Nordemann – Brave
It’s the words rather than the music that drew me to Nichole Nordeman. Thanks to my brother Matt. Yep, my brother introduced me to the music of Nichole Nordeman. Brave probably has a few of the favourite songs of the year Hold On, and What If? (a great evangelistic songs – What if he takes his place in history // With all the prophets and the kings // Who taught us love and came in peace // But then the story ends // What then? // But what if you’re wrong? On the whole though, it is a fairly consistent CD, from perhaps my favourite Christian singer-songwriter.
1: Bright Eyes – I’m Wide Awake its Morning
Was mildly interested in hearing their music, then once I heard that they were playing support for R.E.M. and decided that I would try and get their CD before the show. Quite like the songs before the concert though it probably was the concert that solidified my opinion about them. The song writing is perhaps the greatest strength – the standout tracks for me were – Lua; Landlocked Blues; Old Soul Song (for a new world order), and We are nowhere and its now. Perhaps the most consistent CD that I bought this year, and on the basis of the studio, and live performances of the songs, I’m Wide Awake It’s Morning is my Album of 2005.
On the Horizon: At this point the only murmurings I’ve heard is about a Radiohead CD in about May[ish] and Pearl Jam, but I won’t hold my breath.
Honorable mentions: Bright Eyes – Digitial Ash and a Digital Urn, and Jars of Clay – Redemption Songs.
Unrated: Third Day – Whereever you Are, Rebecca St James – If I Had One Chance to Tell You Something. Sufjan Stevens - Illinoise
5: Coldplay – X and Y
I have to say this was one of the more anticipated CDs being released this year. I quite liked their previous CD. However while X&Y does have a number of great tracks; Fix You, A Message, Square One, it does grab you, or depart much from their earlier work.
4: Switchfoot – Nothing is Sound
The CD was mostly written on the tour over the last twelve months, and has been spending a fair bit of time in my CD player. I am quite a fan of the songwriting. The band’s faith is a little less on their sleeve, but is still apparent. A couple of the standout tracks are ‘The Shadow Proves the Sunshine’, and ‘The Blues’. Its quite worth a listen, but give it time to grow.
3: Sigur Ros - Takk
What do I say about Sigur Ros. Thanks Guan, for introducing me to their music in 2004. Thanks Joe for letting me they were playing shows in August this year; quite a phenomenal show. Takk has been described as their most accessible CD. I’m not sure about that, but their songs are great. I really loved Hoppipoka, Milano and Glosoli. It is hard to describe what sort of music Sigur Ros is, I guess atmospheric is not quite there but it is close.
If you haven’t got tickets for their shows in April next year – get them, I don’t think you will regret it.
2: Nichole Nordemann – Brave
It’s the words rather than the music that drew me to Nichole Nordeman. Thanks to my brother Matt. Yep, my brother introduced me to the music of Nichole Nordeman. Brave probably has a few of the favourite songs of the year Hold On, and What If? (a great evangelistic songs – What if he takes his place in history // With all the prophets and the kings // Who taught us love and came in peace // But then the story ends // What then? // But what if you’re wrong? On the whole though, it is a fairly consistent CD, from perhaps my favourite Christian singer-songwriter.
1: Bright Eyes – I’m Wide Awake its Morning
Was mildly interested in hearing their music, then once I heard that they were playing support for R.E.M. and decided that I would try and get their CD before the show. Quite like the songs before the concert though it probably was the concert that solidified my opinion about them. The song writing is perhaps the greatest strength – the standout tracks for me were – Lua; Landlocked Blues; Old Soul Song (for a new world order), and We are nowhere and its now. Perhaps the most consistent CD that I bought this year, and on the basis of the studio, and live performances of the songs, I’m Wide Awake It’s Morning is my Album of 2005.
On the Horizon: At this point the only murmurings I’ve heard is about a Radiohead CD in about May[ish] and Pearl Jam, but I won’t hold my breath.
Drawn From Still Waters Favourite Films for 2005
Honorable Mentions: Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy; The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe.
10: In Her Shoes (just a lovely story)
9: Shopgirl (quite liked the story, about how people change, and change each other. Danes was great)
8: Goodnight and Goodluck (set in the period of McCarthy, and sheds a very interesting light on the events of the past three years)
7: Little Fish (The best Australian film for years).
6: Howl’s Moving Castle (stunning visuals, and a great story).
5: Turtles Can Fly
Set in a refugee camp in the north Iraq, the film is a story of four kids in the refugee camp, and the impact and legacy of war on children. The film is a provoking and somewhat distressing film reminding us of the innocent victims of wars.
4: The Motorcycle Diaries
As I wrote earlier in the year, I don’t actually know a lot of about Che Guerava, and this film gives you an insight into his nature has he grew up. The visuals were particularly fantastic.
3: Crash
The film looks at the issue of race in LA, perhaps a film that we should all look at now in Sydney. Fantastic script, the stories and characters intersect beautifully. For this reason alone it is worth having a look at.
2: Downfall
Pages of history, transported to the screen. It enabled you to see both the downfall of the Third Reich and the mental collapse of Hitler. In some ways was distressing to watch as you saw the extent to which some followers took there devotion to Nazism.
1: Hotel Rwanda
"If people see this footage they'll say, 'Oh my God, that's terrible,' and they'll go on eating their dinners.
Hands down the most powerful and confronting film I have seen this year. It is a much needed stern rebuke to me, and to the West. Never again, we said after the Holocaust, never again we said after Bosnia. Yet the West betrayed these claims as they sat idly by while this occurred in Rwanda – and still sits idly by while similar events take place in Sudan. Hotel Rwanda was the must-see film of 2005.
We are witnesses, take care, and keep your soul diligently, lest you forget the things that your eyes have seen. [Deut 4:9, perhaps a little (re)interpreted]
To see: Memoirs of a Geisha, Joyueax Noel, and The New World.
10: In Her Shoes (just a lovely story)
9: Shopgirl (quite liked the story, about how people change, and change each other. Danes was great)
8: Goodnight and Goodluck (set in the period of McCarthy, and sheds a very interesting light on the events of the past three years)
7: Little Fish (The best Australian film for years).
6: Howl’s Moving Castle (stunning visuals, and a great story).
5: Turtles Can Fly
Set in a refugee camp in the north Iraq, the film is a story of four kids in the refugee camp, and the impact and legacy of war on children. The film is a provoking and somewhat distressing film reminding us of the innocent victims of wars.
4: The Motorcycle Diaries
As I wrote earlier in the year, I don’t actually know a lot of about Che Guerava, and this film gives you an insight into his nature has he grew up. The visuals were particularly fantastic.
3: Crash
The film looks at the issue of race in LA, perhaps a film that we should all look at now in Sydney. Fantastic script, the stories and characters intersect beautifully. For this reason alone it is worth having a look at.
2: Downfall
Pages of history, transported to the screen. It enabled you to see both the downfall of the Third Reich and the mental collapse of Hitler. In some ways was distressing to watch as you saw the extent to which some followers took there devotion to Nazism.
1: Hotel Rwanda
"If people see this footage they'll say, 'Oh my God, that's terrible,' and they'll go on eating their dinners.
Hands down the most powerful and confronting film I have seen this year. It is a much needed stern rebuke to me, and to the West. Never again, we said after the Holocaust, never again we said after Bosnia. Yet the West betrayed these claims as they sat idly by while this occurred in Rwanda – and still sits idly by while similar events take place in Sudan. Hotel Rwanda was the must-see film of 2005.
We are witnesses, take care, and keep your soul diligently, lest you forget the things that your eyes have seen. [Deut 4:9, perhaps a little (re)interpreted]
To see: Memoirs of a Geisha, Joyueax Noel, and The New World.
Wednesday, December 28, 2005
that's all stuff and nonsense
Yeah, I hate thinking about titles for these posts, so a line from a song will have to do. Anyway, just thought I'd do one of those entries where I actualy speak about what's happening.
It has been a lovely few days, was great to all be together for Christmas. We went to Matt's church on Christmas Eve which was great - the lesson focused on a few of the Old Testament prophecies about the coming Christ. (Hosea 11:1-4, Micah 5:1-5a, Isaiah 7:13-17 and Jeremiah 31:15-17). I've always been amazed (and comforted) about how many Old Testaments prophecies there are about Christ.
Boxing Day we went and saw The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe, which we liked to varying degrees. As for me, I quite liked it, and am looking forward to going to seeing it and reading it with Fiona. She came down yesterday(which is great), and is staying with us until I have to go back to work on the 3rd. It will be great just having time to do very little.
I've also decided to start going to Barneys next year, which will be great. Over the past few months I have enjoyed the preaching and look forward to serving our God there.
It has been a lovely few days, was great to all be together for Christmas. We went to Matt's church on Christmas Eve which was great - the lesson focused on a few of the Old Testament prophecies about the coming Christ. (Hosea 11:1-4, Micah 5:1-5a, Isaiah 7:13-17 and Jeremiah 31:15-17). I've always been amazed (and comforted) about how many Old Testaments prophecies there are about Christ.
Boxing Day we went and saw The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe, which we liked to varying degrees. As for me, I quite liked it, and am looking forward to going to seeing it and reading it with Fiona. She came down yesterday(which is great), and is staying with us until I have to go back to work on the 3rd. It will be great just having time to do very little.
I've also decided to start going to Barneys next year, which will be great. Over the past few months I have enjoyed the preaching and look forward to serving our God there.
Sunday, December 25, 2005
Merry Christmas
I hope and pray that God has blessed you this Christmas. I'm currently down in Wollongong enjoying being together as a family.
I caught the editorial in the New York Times. It was a fascinating read, and in particular this quote stood out:
I caught the editorial in the New York Times. It was a fascinating read, and in particular this quote stood out:
One of the reasons we love to hear the story of an old crank like Scrooge is that he seems to embody this cracked old world, made whole in one night by regret and repentance.Before I go, let me again pray that God will open our eyes, ears and heart anew to story of Jesus, our saviour who came into the world to save His creation.
Friday, December 23, 2005
2005 in Review
This is a sport only entry, so feel free to skip. (There’s no penalty for missing it)
2005 - Year of the Penalty, and Fairy Tale – Arsenal, Liverpool, and Australian football fans rejoice as their ties are won on spot-kicks. (thanks Richard Hinds – SMH). Looking through the winners, it appears its time for me to remember not to make any bold predictions on sport.
The Sports story of the year is the end of Australia’s 32 absence from the Football Word Cup (though some might say after drawing Brazil, Japan and Croatia it may be a brief presence).
Other highlights of the year for me include:
- New Zealand – with the Netball, Rugby League, and Rugby Union teams all posting significant victories during the course of the year.
Honorable Mention (I): The Black Caps; who despite losing the series 2-1, managed to chase down 332 against Australia in a one day game.
- Liverpool’s comeback, trailing 0-3 to AC Milan.
- Sydney Swans – Given that I’m still not sure how Sydney beat Geelong to get to the Preliminary Final, I definitely am still surprised they are Premiers, not that I’ll complain.
- Wests Tigers – another fairytale – beating North Queensland in the Grand Final, after downing St George, and Parramatta respectively in their finals.
- It would be remiss of me to not mention the fact that England won the Ashes, In one of the more competitive series for some time.
Honorable Mention (II) – Chicago’s White Sox won the [World] Series; and Bangladesh beat Australia in Cricket; huh?
2005 - Year of the Penalty, and Fairy Tale – Arsenal, Liverpool, and Australian football fans rejoice as their ties are won on spot-kicks. (thanks Richard Hinds – SMH). Looking through the winners, it appears its time for me to remember not to make any bold predictions on sport.
The Sports story of the year is the end of Australia’s 32 absence from the Football Word Cup (though some might say after drawing Brazil, Japan and Croatia it may be a brief presence).
Other highlights of the year for me include:
- New Zealand – with the Netball, Rugby League, and Rugby Union teams all posting significant victories during the course of the year.
Honorable Mention (I): The Black Caps; who despite losing the series 2-1, managed to chase down 332 against Australia in a one day game.
- Liverpool’s comeback, trailing 0-3 to AC Milan.
- Sydney Swans – Given that I’m still not sure how Sydney beat Geelong to get to the Preliminary Final, I definitely am still surprised they are Premiers, not that I’ll complain.
- Wests Tigers – another fairytale – beating North Queensland in the Grand Final, after downing St George, and Parramatta respectively in their finals.
- It would be remiss of me to not mention the fact that England won the Ashes, In one of the more competitive series for some time.
Honorable Mention (II) – Chicago’s White Sox won the [World] Series; and Bangladesh beat Australia in Cricket; huh?
Thursday, December 22, 2005
Year-End Lists
Not a lot happening really, sorry for the lack of updates. The past few weeks have mostly been spent at work. I’m [still] in the process of completing a travelogue, and will hope to post bits and pieces of that, along with some photos early in the New Year.
December usually means for me its time to review 2005. At present nominations for the Top 5 Albums of 2005 include:
Sigur Ros – Takk
Coldplay – X&Y
Bright Eyes – I’m Wide Awake it’s Morning and Digital Ash in a Digital Urn
Nichole Nordeman – Brave;
Switchfoot – Nothing is Sound, and
Jars of Clay – Redemption Songs
(A few others that I have, but haven’t listen too properly are: Third Day – Whereever you Are, Rebecca St James – If I Had One Chance to Tell You Something)
I’ve excluded She Will Have Her Way because it is a tribute to the song writing of Neil and Tim Finn by Australian and New Zealand artists. Other great albums I’ve bought this year, but not recorded in 2005:
Sarah Blasko – The Overscore and the Underscore
James Blunt – Back to Bedlam,
The Arcade Fire - Funeral,
Greenday – American Idiot
Sigur Ros – untitled or ( ) and Ageatis Byrjun.
A countdown of my favourite 10 Movies will also commence shortly. I’ve seen quite a number of films this year, some of which were silly, others serious, and still others challenging or confronting.
Good Night and Good Luck, Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy, Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, Shopgirl, Turtles Can Fly, In Her Shoes, The Motorcycle Diaries, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (which I think I saw an inappropriate number of times due to air travel), Little Fish, Downfall, Star Wars III: Revenge of the Sith, Hotel Rwanda, Crash, Howl’s Moving Castle, Sky Captain and the World of Tomorrow and Mr and Mrs Smith.
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Unrelated, and definitely not with the same expectation and confidence as in 2003, my nomination for Australian of the Year is Judi Moylan: For displaying courage in her convictions, being willing to stand up or those who are weak and vulnerable in our society, perhaps risking her standing and credibility.
December usually means for me its time to review 2005. At present nominations for the Top 5 Albums of 2005 include:
Sigur Ros – Takk
Coldplay – X&Y
Bright Eyes – I’m Wide Awake it’s Morning and Digital Ash in a Digital Urn
Nichole Nordeman – Brave;
Switchfoot – Nothing is Sound, and
Jars of Clay – Redemption Songs
(A few others that I have, but haven’t listen too properly are: Third Day – Whereever you Are, Rebecca St James – If I Had One Chance to Tell You Something)
I’ve excluded She Will Have Her Way because it is a tribute to the song writing of Neil and Tim Finn by Australian and New Zealand artists. Other great albums I’ve bought this year, but not recorded in 2005:
Sarah Blasko – The Overscore and the Underscore
James Blunt – Back to Bedlam,
The Arcade Fire - Funeral,
Greenday – American Idiot
Sigur Ros – untitled or ( ) and Ageatis Byrjun.
A countdown of my favourite 10 Movies will also commence shortly. I’ve seen quite a number of films this year, some of which were silly, others serious, and still others challenging or confronting.
Good Night and Good Luck, Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy, Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, Shopgirl, Turtles Can Fly, In Her Shoes, The Motorcycle Diaries, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (which I think I saw an inappropriate number of times due to air travel), Little Fish, Downfall, Star Wars III: Revenge of the Sith, Hotel Rwanda, Crash, Howl’s Moving Castle, Sky Captain and the World of Tomorrow and Mr and Mrs Smith.
++
Unrelated, and definitely not with the same expectation and confidence as in 2003, my nomination for Australian of the Year is Judi Moylan: For displaying courage in her convictions, being willing to stand up or those who are weak and vulnerable in our society, perhaps risking her standing and credibility.
Tuesday, December 20, 2005
In Loving Memory of John Spencer
20 December 1946 - 16 December 2005
This guy's walking down the street when he falls in a hole. The walls are so steep he can't get out. A doctor passes by and the guy shouts up, 'Hey you. Can you help me out?' The doctor writes a prescription, throws it down in the hole and moves on. Then a priest comes along and the guy shouts up, 'Father, I'm down in this hole can you help me out?' The priest writes out a prayer, throws it down in the hole and moves on. Then a friend walks by, 'Hey, Joe, it's me can you help me out?' And the friend jumps in the hole. Our guy says, 'Are you stupid? Now we're both down here.' The friend says, 'Yeah, but I've been down here before and I know the way out.'
Saturday, December 03, 2005
A Sort of Homecoming
Well its hard to believe how fast the last four weeks has gone, and I am now home.
The trip in Brief:
- It was beautiful, wonderful, delightful to be met by my sister at
- London - "I've got a Shed that's bigger than this" - Loved seeing their Football, and The Woman in White. The biggest improver, quite liked it this time.
- I loved
- Miami, showed you the best and worse of America – poverty, riches, an enduring example of Rotisserie Evangelism and the classic tanning booth simply a block from the beach~!
- Sigur Ros – a brilliant gig, in an amazing venue.
- U2, with my expectations it was always a danger I’d be disappointed, but the band seldom disappoint, and with two amazing sets, didn’t this time either. (the full band cover of Instant Karma, case and point)
And the amazing surprise when I got back was that I will be having Christmas with ALL of my family together in
Friday, October 28, 2005
Borrowing wings..
Later today, I get on a plane and fly over to Ireland and the US for holiday with my sister. I do hope to sproadically post while I'm away. In spite of all this it doesn't yet really feel that I'm going.
So God's Blessings on you all, and I look forward to catching up with you all upon my return.
So God's Blessings on you all, and I look forward to catching up with you all upon my return.
Wednesday, October 26, 2005
Heroes
Hero is an word that I've seen most often on the sports pages, or in the letters page complaining about its place, and usage on the sports pages. I saw this article in today's Sydney Morning Herald after the death of Rosa Park, who came to attention through refusing to give up her seat on the bus.
I thought the article raised interesting questions about who our hero's should be.
After watching Hotel Rwanda recently, a hero not on their list perhaps could be Paul Rusesabagina.
Any thoughts?
I thought the article raised interesting questions about who our hero's should be.
After watching Hotel Rwanda recently, a hero not on their list perhaps could be Paul Rusesabagina.
Any thoughts?
Friday, October 21, 2005
Another Slice
Was going through my mail account, and I came across this slice entitled “Permission to Lament”. It was quite interesting read.
The below quote resonates with me:
I think its this reason that Lament is one of my favourite Christian songs, (It's on a CD Great is Your Love, produced at St Paul's Castle Hill), and the words are below:
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Summer and winter, and springtime and harvest
Sun, moon and stars, In their courses above
Join with all manifold witness
To thy great faithfulness, mercy and love.
Great is thy faithfulness, Great is thy faithfulness
Morning by morning, new mercies I see
All I have needed, thy hand hast provided
Great is thy faithfulness Lord unto me.
The below quote resonates with me:
“Sadly dissimilar to many of worship services, the writers of Scripture identify with the pain of the world and do not hold back in addressing it …. [At the funeral of a loved one], I desperately needed permission to lament. I needed to be able to ask why with the force that was welling up inside me, even as I clung to the resurrection of the Son and trust in the Father."Earlier the writer describes how after 9-11, Matt Redman commented “we had a few expressions of hope at out disposal, but when it came to expressions of pain and lament, we had very little vocabulary to give voice to our hearts cries”, or put another way “The world we live in is not as it was intended to be, and our worship must not deny this.”
I think its this reason that Lament is one of my favourite Christian songs, (It's on a CD Great is Your Love, produced at St Paul's Castle Hill), and the words are below:
O Lord the God who saves meNicole Schleicher, 1997
Day and night I cry to you
My words fly out into the air
Seemingly unanswered
Why are you so silent
Why so little comfort
As I fall into the pit again
Deep into the pit again
Darkness is my only friend
When will all this suffering end
Fear consumes me and I try
To stumble to the distant light
Where are you Lord, in the sadness
Where are you when I feel so alone
I try to find you, where are you hiding
I can’t make any sense of the pain I’m in
My tears are my food all day and night
And I’m running out of strength to fight
Father God please carry me on your shoulders
Take me through the valley to the other side
Where are you Lord, in the sadness
Where are you when I feel so alone
I try to find you, where are you hiding
I can’t make any sense of the pain I’m in
My tears are my food all day and night
And I’m running out of strength to fight
Father God please carry me on your shoulders
Take me through the valley to the other side
+++
Summer and winter, and springtime and harvest
Sun, moon and stars, In their courses above
Join with all manifold witness
To thy great faithfulness, mercy and love.
Great is thy faithfulness, Great is thy faithfulness
Morning by morning, new mercies I see
All I have needed, thy hand hast provided
Great is thy faithfulness Lord unto me.
Saturday, October 08, 2005
Electioneering
Mark Latham, caused a little bit of a stir when he published his diaries recently. I am not sure that I am keen on reading them, but at the same time I suspect that within his book there will be kernels of truth, and understanding, of both the Australian Labor Party and Australian Politics. (Of course I might be giving Latham too much credit.)
I was perhaps a touch more interested when I read a speech Latham gave entitled 10 Reasons Why Young Idealistic People Should Forget about Organised Politics, and a responding article in The Age 10 Reasons Why Politics can be Great.
In sum, perhaps truth is in the middle. Politics can be both richly rewarding, and deeply distressing.
Mark Latham’s first point was public apathy. He broke the electorate down into for groups, those who are well informed “conservatives” or “progressives”, those who are “down and out, and for this reason distrust the Government”, and the apathetic middle class who vote from their wallet, but are largely disinterested.
Perhaps this is overly simplistic, but I think contains at least a kernel of truth.
To be sure, politics is not a career you’d want to take a family through, given how ruthless and relentless elements of the media often are.
In the follow up piece, I guess the below kind of sums it up –
++
Before I leave the area of politics, I was thinking, about the debate surrounding our system of voting, and length of terms. Just thought I’d leave my two cents worth here. I like the idea of fixed terms; it means we know when we’re going to vote, and four year terms means that stuff could well get done.
I know you can’t legislate people to care about who, or what they vote about, but the least we can do, is make people need to show up, and perhaps mark a bit of paper.
The other thing in the debate that intrigues me is that in the reforms they are suggesting that those who have been incarcerated are ineligible to vote. I don’t think I like this idea because I think it makes on comment on those who are criminal as beyond rehabilitation.
I was perhaps a touch more interested when I read a speech Latham gave entitled 10 Reasons Why Young Idealistic People Should Forget about Organised Politics, and a responding article in The Age 10 Reasons Why Politics can be Great.
In sum, perhaps truth is in the middle. Politics can be both richly rewarding, and deeply distressing.
Mark Latham’s first point was public apathy. He broke the electorate down into for groups, those who are well informed “conservatives” or “progressives”, those who are “down and out, and for this reason distrust the Government”, and the apathetic middle class who vote from their wallet, but are largely disinterested.
Perhaps this is overly simplistic, but I think contains at least a kernel of truth.
To be sure, politics is not a career you’d want to take a family through, given how ruthless and relentless elements of the media often are.
In the follow up piece, I guess the below kind of sums it up –
There's so much that needs to be done. Who got the children out of detention? Who freed the long-term detainees? Courageous Canberra politicians! Who's going to pass laws to cut greenhouse emissions? Who's going to get justice for our indigenous people? You! No one else can do it.Sure politics may not be a fun-filled life, but it’s an area which cries out for idealists, to reform the system, and reform our society.
++
Before I leave the area of politics, I was thinking, about the debate surrounding our system of voting, and length of terms. Just thought I’d leave my two cents worth here. I like the idea of fixed terms; it means we know when we’re going to vote, and four year terms means that stuff could well get done.
I know you can’t legislate people to care about who, or what they vote about, but the least we can do, is make people need to show up, and perhaps mark a bit of paper.
The other thing in the debate that intrigues me is that in the reforms they are suggesting that those who have been incarcerated are ineligible to vote. I don’t think I like this idea because I think it makes on comment on those who are criminal as beyond rehabilitation.
Tuesday, October 04, 2005
Couple of short points…
It was disturbing to read that the US seeks to send a man to walk on the moon by (or in) 2018. To me, we need to bring our gaze back to earth. What does it really matter if we walk on the moon, once we see the profound misery on earth?
Last Thursday was Police Remembrance Day, to commemorate police officers killed in the line of duty. In light of this I do wonder if it is worth making the murder of a police officer carry a stiffer penalty. In part I feel that is any one life is not worth more or less than another, but at the same time, these are men and women, who put themselves at risk day by day, surely we need to send stern messages to those who would willfully injure or kill those who perform in this valuable line of work.
We should regardless all pause to reflect on this day, and pray for those who are employed in these professions. Last year’s speech.
Two things from the newspaper: Found the Tribal Mind in today’s Herald interesting. David Dale mentioned movies that prepare ‘students for life’. For the record, David listed The Fellowship of the Ring, Rabbit-proof Fence, Contact, Billy Elliott, Memento and more. What films should be on the curriculum? What do you, my dear readers think?
Emily Maguire wrote an interesting article declaring the belief that a moral society depends on holy guidance has been contradicted.
Last Thursday was Police Remembrance Day, to commemorate police officers killed in the line of duty. In light of this I do wonder if it is worth making the murder of a police officer carry a stiffer penalty. In part I feel that is any one life is not worth more or less than another, but at the same time, these are men and women, who put themselves at risk day by day, surely we need to send stern messages to those who would willfully injure or kill those who perform in this valuable line of work.
We should regardless all pause to reflect on this day, and pray for those who are employed in these professions. Last year’s speech.
Two things from the newspaper: Found the Tribal Mind in today’s Herald interesting. David Dale mentioned movies that prepare ‘students for life’. For the record, David listed The Fellowship of the Ring, Rabbit-proof Fence, Contact, Billy Elliott, Memento and more. What films should be on the curriculum? What do you, my dear readers think?
Emily Maguire wrote an interesting article declaring the belief that a moral society depends on holy guidance has been contradicted.
Friday, September 30, 2005
James Blunt - No Bravery
A workmate let me borrow this CD earlier in the year [April], and I recently bought it, and this song has totally grabbed me. Its worth checking out.
There are children standing here,
Arms outstretched into the sky,
Tears drying on their face.
He has been here.
Brothers lie in shallow graves.
Fathers lost without a trace.
A nation blind to their disgrace,
Since he's been here.
And I see no bravery,
No bravery in your eyes anymore.
Only sadness.
Houses burnt beyond repair.
The smell of death is in the air.
A woman weeping in despair says,
He has been here.
Tracer lighting up the sky.
It's another families' turn to die.
A child afraid to even cry out says,
He has been here.
And I see no bravery,
No bravery in your eyes anymore.
Only sadness.
There are children standing here,
Arms outstretched into the sky,
But no one asks the question why,
He has been here.
Old men kneel and accept their fate.
Wives and daughters cut and raped.
A generation drenched in hate.
Yes, he has been here.
And I see no bravery,
No bravery in your eyes anymore.
Only sadness.
Stories from the Warzone...
Maybe it’s not me, maybe I’m done volunteering. Perhaps I should just admit that I now understand the world is corrupt and brutal, that most nations only look out for their own interests and people seldom rush to dangerous acts of self sacrifice. No shit. Where did I get the idea I would find otherwise?Emergency Sex (And Other Desperate Measures): True Stories from a Warzone.
We actually set out to save the world. That is what was insane – not ten-year-old warlords with bad breath and voodoo fetishes in Liberia, not Matt’s assassin, not the boss in Somalia who set us up for an ambush in exchange for a fifteen per cent kickback on the judges’ salaries, not the Hutu militants who butchered a minority who had repressed them or the Tutsi survivors who executed the suspects – but me, for thinking I could enter a war and personally restore order.
So that’s the easy answer: forswear idealism; resign myself to a sad majority; put away the things of youth; be thankful I survived and move on.
But that’s horseshit too, a craven capitulation. I’m not ready to let the youthful part of myself go yet. If maturity means becoming a cynic, if you have to kill the part of yourself that is naïve and romantic and idealistic – that part of yourself you treasure most – to claim maturity, is it not better to die young but with your humanity intact? If everyone resigns themselves to cynicism, isn’t that exactly how vulnerable millions end up dead ...
I have another quote from the exit of Yad Vashem (the Holocaust Museum in Jerusalem) on my desk … Son of man, keep not silent, forget not deeds of tyranny, cry out at the disaster of a people, recount it to your children and they unto theirs from generation to generation.
I don’t know who saved the honour of mankind during my time in the field, but I do know that and ancestral memory of tyranny commands me not to keep silent…I am a witness, I have a voice, I have to write it down.
Sunday, September 25, 2005
In Brief
- F and I had a great weekend down in Canberra, visiting her family and friends, catching up with Deb. It has been way to long since I’ve been to Canberra, and it was such a relaxing weekend.
- Friday night F and I went to see Turtles Can Fly. A depressing and uncomfortably real film set in a refugee camp on the Kurdish / Iraqi border. It’s a must see.
- Tuesday Gaz a few friends and I are going to hear Gareth Evans speak at UNSW (What price he gets asked an off topic question about Latham and the Labor Party). Updated link to transcript of lecture.
Sunday, September 18, 2005
... on the road to the Holy Grail ...
While out at dinner Friday night celebrating M's birthday, a message came through on my mobile phone, alerting me to the fact that the Sydney Swans had won their Preliminary Final and will play in the 2005 Premiership decider. It must be said after the nail-biting loss to West Coast, and the stolen game against Geelong, I did not expect the Swans to beat St. Kilda by 31 points. But win they did, and now they face of against West Coast next Saturday.
It is good for cricket that England won the Ashes, a lot of ink will be spilt over the team, so I'm not going to do that here. But I will say - the Ashes series was one of the two best series I've seen in recent years - the other series being the 2001 India v Australia series - featuring that incredible match in which Dravid and Laxman batted a full day.
Wil be back with a non-sport post shortly.
It is good for cricket that England won the Ashes, a lot of ink will be spilt over the team, so I'm not going to do that here. But I will say - the Ashes series was one of the two best series I've seen in recent years - the other series being the 2001 India v Australia series - featuring that incredible match in which Dravid and Laxman batted a full day.
Wil be back with a non-sport post shortly.
Sunday, September 11, 2005
Easy like Sunday morning …
It has been a good weekend. Work hasn’t been too bad, the work flow is more constant, rather than seeming like a dam just burst.
Friday night, F, K, Gary and I went to the Sydney’s home final against Geelong. The atmosphere was electric. It was one of those nights that I will remember for a long while. Sydney were behind for most of the game, and played well below par. But the final quarter the game swung on the boot of Nick Davis, who kicked four last quarter goals (Which was simply stunning as Sydney had until that point kicked three goals in three full quarters). With no more than a few seconds to go, Davis dropped the ball onto this left foot and kicked more from hope than anything else. We paused in hope waiting for the goal umpire to single goal and then for the siren to go. Sydney stole the game 56-53, and now play Saint Kilda in Melbourne on Friday night. I still can't quite believe the Swans won.
Saturday was fun too, my parents came up, and with F, we and saw the new Australian film Little Fish. One thing is for sure, if this is the future of Australian film industry, then the industry has got a bright future. I quite liked the film, found it strikingly sad. I found the construction of the film to be beautiful. Images and words were beautifully melded together to create a story. While it was slow in parts, it is well worth a look. It showed the tragedy of Heroin addiction. The acting the film is excellent, the performances from Cate, and Noni especially. For those interested, this is an excerpt from the Heralds review; Well, Little Fish is about a couple of people still in the gutter, others trying to get in, some who make a living off those who are in, and one trying to keep herself from falling back in.
Little Fish is well worth a look.
Also spent last night at Joe’s 21st, it was a great chance to catch up with people I hadn’t seen in a while, and really enjoyable to celebrate his birthday.
Friday night, F, K, Gary and I went to the Sydney’s home final against Geelong. The atmosphere was electric. It was one of those nights that I will remember for a long while. Sydney were behind for most of the game, and played well below par. But the final quarter the game swung on the boot of Nick Davis, who kicked four last quarter goals (Which was simply stunning as Sydney had until that point kicked three goals in three full quarters). With no more than a few seconds to go, Davis dropped the ball onto this left foot and kicked more from hope than anything else. We paused in hope waiting for the goal umpire to single goal and then for the siren to go. Sydney stole the game 56-53, and now play Saint Kilda in Melbourne on Friday night. I still can't quite believe the Swans won.
Saturday was fun too, my parents came up, and with F, we and saw the new Australian film Little Fish. One thing is for sure, if this is the future of Australian film industry, then the industry has got a bright future. I quite liked the film, found it strikingly sad. I found the construction of the film to be beautiful. Images and words were beautifully melded together to create a story. While it was slow in parts, it is well worth a look. It showed the tragedy of Heroin addiction. The acting the film is excellent, the performances from Cate, and Noni especially. For those interested, this is an excerpt from the Heralds review; Well, Little Fish is about a couple of people still in the gutter, others trying to get in, some who make a living off those who are in, and one trying to keep herself from falling back in.
Little Fish is well worth a look.
Also spent last night at Joe’s 21st, it was a great chance to catch up with people I hadn’t seen in a while, and really enjoyable to celebrate his birthday.
Thursday, September 01, 2005
… these are a few of my favourite things …
[Via Deb]
Decided that I’d take the time to draw up a list of my three favourite things:
-1- Communication – specifically talking to, or with people – I love getting to know people and getting to know myself as I talk, listen and understand, the people God brings into my life.
-2- A Blank Page –There is something inspiring to me about a blank piece of paper – perhaps it’s a symbol to me of creativity, and possibility.
-3- Finally Music – whether it be listening to friends strum a guitar around me, or listening to music as I walk, work or wander. Its something that grabs my heart or mind.
Perhaps these are all linked to hearing or being heard, of all the senses I can’t help but think its my hearing that I’d miss the most. Because music grabs me, whether it’s the notes of Jupiter, or the words and images of Love is Blindness. It’s a blessing that we are able to experience another human being’s creativity.
While I was going into Sydney tonight I realised one thing I’d love to know as I travel was – what noise is traveling along the white, black or grey cords I see. What experience am I missing out of? What would I learn about those around me if I could hear these thoughts? Anyway will leave it there.
Decided that I’d take the time to draw up a list of my three favourite things:
-1- Communication – specifically talking to, or with people – I love getting to know people and getting to know myself as I talk, listen and understand, the people God brings into my life.
-2- A Blank Page –There is something inspiring to me about a blank piece of paper – perhaps it’s a symbol to me of creativity, and possibility.
-3- Finally Music – whether it be listening to friends strum a guitar around me, or listening to music as I walk, work or wander. Its something that grabs my heart or mind.
Perhaps these are all linked to hearing or being heard, of all the senses I can’t help but think its my hearing that I’d miss the most. Because music grabs me, whether it’s the notes of Jupiter, or the words and images of Love is Blindness. It’s a blessing that we are able to experience another human being’s creativity.
While I was going into Sydney tonight I realised one thing I’d love to know as I travel was – what noise is traveling along the white, black or grey cords I see. What experience am I missing out of? What would I learn about those around me if I could hear these thoughts? Anyway will leave it there.
Sunday, August 28, 2005
Been away too long
Feels like I’ve been away for while. Seeing as it is now almost a month since I have last blogged something.
Yesterday, Australia lost the Ashes – no no the men are still playing, but the Australia women lost their test series with England 1-0. And a few days from now we will see spring. Spring translates into the Australian Rules finals time. After one of the best seasons in years we are four weeks from the Grand Final. The Swans are in the finals, and we’ll see how they go. Before I stop talking about sport just have two more thoughts – great win for the All Blacks – was a cracker of a game – 31-27. Yes, Australia was not playing, but the sentence - New Zealand wins the Australian Rules Tournament just needs to be written.
Had pause for thought a few weeks ago reading a letter written by a parent to Grant Thomas a professional coach was interesting. It makes the point that the Junior AFL Competition had just got over a shortage of Umpires, then after a professional coach trashes the Umpires – parents start doing it and welcome back umpire-shortage. Point to make here, is that too many times I criticise decisions. Yet the human element of sport is the fact that people do make mistakes. Particularly those in positions of promience need to model respect for the officials.
Been a good weekend – went to my Aunts’ farewell service on Friday night, then Sunday, was spent at Dee Why for my Uncle’s farewell, they are going back to Dunedin, NZ where my Aunt will be taking up a position as Rector at Knox Cathedral. I’ll miss having them both in Australia.
Yesterday, Australia lost the Ashes – no no the men are still playing, but the Australia women lost their test series with England 1-0. And a few days from now we will see spring. Spring translates into the Australian Rules finals time. After one of the best seasons in years we are four weeks from the Grand Final. The Swans are in the finals, and we’ll see how they go. Before I stop talking about sport just have two more thoughts – great win for the All Blacks – was a cracker of a game – 31-27. Yes, Australia was not playing, but the sentence - New Zealand wins the Australian Rules Tournament just needs to be written.
Had pause for thought a few weeks ago reading a letter written by a parent to Grant Thomas a professional coach was interesting. It makes the point that the Junior AFL Competition had just got over a shortage of Umpires, then after a professional coach trashes the Umpires – parents start doing it and welcome back umpire-shortage. Point to make here, is that too many times I criticise decisions. Yet the human element of sport is the fact that people do make mistakes. Particularly those in positions of promience need to model respect for the officials.
Been a good weekend – went to my Aunts’ farewell service on Friday night, then Sunday, was spent at Dee Why for my Uncle’s farewell, they are going back to Dunedin, NZ where my Aunt will be taking up a position as Rector at Knox Cathedral. I’ll miss having them both in Australia.
Tuesday, August 09, 2005
Song of the moment
As I walked the five minutes or so to work, I listened to this song from Nichole Nordeman's latest CD Brave, and the words have been stuck in my head since.
Hold On(Nichole Nordeman) ©2005 Birdwing Music / Birdboy Songs (ASCAP), admin. by EMI CMG Publishing.
It will find you at the bottom of a bottle
It will find you at the needle’s end
It will find you when you beg and steal and borrow
It will follow you into a stranger’s bed
It will find you when they serve you with the papers
It will find you when the locks have changed again
It will find you when you’ve called in all your favors
It will meet you at the bridge’s highest ledge
So baby don’t look down, it’s a long way
The sun will come around to a new day
So hold on
Love will find you
Hold on
He’s right behind you now
Just turn around
And love will find you
It will find you when the doctor’s head is shaking
It will find you in a boardroom, mostly dead
It will crawl into the foxhole where you’re praying
It will curl up in your halfway empty bed
So baby don’t believe that it’s over
Maybe you can’t see ‘round the corner…
To hang between two thieves in the darkness
Love must believe you are worth it
Saturday, August 06, 2005
In Brief:
Over the past week I’ve not really done a whole lot – I borrowed the latest Harry Potter novel from my family, and on Thursday I went and saw an amazing Icelandic band called Sigur Ros.
Spoiler free review: I found the new Harry Potter book to be disappointingly predictable.
Links:
When the Premier thinks it's cool to cringe, it's time to get parochial
Beware the child glued to his handheld [via F]
I must preach holy war
+++
6 August 1945
9 August 1945
Lest we forget
Spoiler free review: I found the new Harry Potter book to be disappointingly predictable.
Links:
When the Premier thinks it's cool to cringe, it's time to get parochial
Beware the child glued to his handheld [via F]
I must preach holy war
+++
6 August 1945
9 August 1945
Lest we forget
Wednesday, August 03, 2005
Correction:
In my post 'out of control' I wrote:
[Aside II: Matthias Media have plagarised Voltaire with their rendering of - If God did not exist, it would be necessary to invent him.]
It is Peter Jensen rather than Matthias Media attributed as saying "If we did not have the briefing, we would be forced to invent it".
Perhaps plagarisim is too high a charge, and I have since removed the Aside - but at the same time there is something that sits uncomfortably about the quote. Sure the point made is valid, but to me, it could have been made another way.
[Aside II: Matthias Media have plagarised Voltaire with their rendering of - If God did not exist, it would be necessary to invent him.]
It is Peter Jensen rather than Matthias Media attributed as saying "If we did not have the briefing, we would be forced to invent it".
Perhaps plagarisim is too high a charge, and I have since removed the Aside - but at the same time there is something that sits uncomfortably about the quote. Sure the point made is valid, but to me, it could have been made another way.
Chasing Amy …
Boy meets girl, Boy falls in “love” with girl, Boy or girl messes it up, Boy and Girl reconcile, this is typical of Hollywood romantic-comedies. To sum up why Chasing Amy is so good; it is simply because it ignores the script. Consequently it provides far greater commentary on life and love than most films. Sure if you can’t handle bad language or talk about sex you should avoid it. But without a sugar-coated ending it will be more real/helpful than most.
I found Alyssa terribly frustrating to listen to, but the dialogue was so real when it needed to be, and the film spoke a great deal of truth about our attitudes to relationships, and Love ("real" love, not lust, nor puppy love but enduring love).
I found Alyssa terribly frustrating to listen to, but the dialogue was so real when it needed to be, and the film spoke a great deal of truth about our attitudes to relationships, and Love ("real" love, not lust, nor puppy love but enduring love).
… out of control …
One of the rights, enshrined in the Universal Human Rights Declaration of Human Rights (ratified by Australia) is the right to freely express opinion.
Now most students of history are familiar with Voltaire misquoted as saying “even though I may not agree with you, I will defend to death your right to say it”. What would this mean practically – should we defend the rights of Muslim’s extremists, Pauline Hanson, Philip Jensen, et al to say “what they believe”
[Aside I: For those interested the actual quote was by S. G. Tallentyre who said, of Voltaire, ‘I disapprove of what you say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it, was his attitude now.’
Two similar themed quotes of Voltaire were – “Think for yourselves and let others enjoy the privilege to do so too”, and Monsieur l'abbé, I detest what you write, but I would give my life to make it possible for you to continue to write.”]
Is there a limit to our tolerance, should there be limits of our tolerance. Or more fundamentally can we actually crack down on “hate speech”. Are any values non-negotiable? Are all cultures equal? On the other hand – is the collateral damage from trying to enforce tolerance worth it? There are median’s beyond our control - the internet, talkback radio. Can we control, or legislate against “thought”.
Another perhaps related case that made the news this week is about Professor Fraser of Macquarie University, who has commented on limiting immigration of particular ethnic groups. I see two responses here. On one hand to publicly respond to the comments is to give them credence, and weight, on the other to not respond is to accept them
But I think both of these miss a point – our nation is missing engaging debate – we should talk about these issues – we should allow conversation about the policies of the west. Yes, we may not agree with what is said, but we should debate our responses to issues, we should debate issues – to me that’s the greatest loss of the last 10 or so years, policy is no longer debated vigorously (perhaps it never was). The idealist in me is speaking in me again but there needs to be a greater interaction between different political persuasions.
The other issue to come out of the Fraser affair is that while I believe the University has no right to comment on what he says himself, if he labels himself as from the University I believe they then have a course of action, if I use the reputation of the company then I believe the company has the right to defend that reputation. However – as I look at the case of Professor Fraser – why not instead of suspending him – force him to defend his position. People should be free to express any view, but let us, as Hugh Mackay wrote in the Sun Herald, have debate out in the open, where facts can be weighed up against emotion, and prejudice exposed, fears allayed, or reinforced by the evidence”.
Some further reading.
Now most students of history are familiar with Voltaire misquoted as saying “even though I may not agree with you, I will defend to death your right to say it”. What would this mean practically – should we defend the rights of Muslim’s extremists, Pauline Hanson, Philip Jensen, et al to say “what they believe”
[Aside I: For those interested the actual quote was by S. G. Tallentyre who said, of Voltaire, ‘I disapprove of what you say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it, was his attitude now.’
Two similar themed quotes of Voltaire were – “Think for yourselves and let others enjoy the privilege to do so too”, and Monsieur l'abbé, I detest what you write, but I would give my life to make it possible for you to continue to write.”]
Is there a limit to our tolerance, should there be limits of our tolerance. Or more fundamentally can we actually crack down on “hate speech”. Are any values non-negotiable? Are all cultures equal? On the other hand – is the collateral damage from trying to enforce tolerance worth it? There are median’s beyond our control - the internet, talkback radio. Can we control, or legislate against “thought”.
Another perhaps related case that made the news this week is about Professor Fraser of Macquarie University, who has commented on limiting immigration of particular ethnic groups. I see two responses here. On one hand to publicly respond to the comments is to give them credence, and weight, on the other to not respond is to accept them
But I think both of these miss a point – our nation is missing engaging debate – we should talk about these issues – we should allow conversation about the policies of the west. Yes, we may not agree with what is said, but we should debate our responses to issues, we should debate issues – to me that’s the greatest loss of the last 10 or so years, policy is no longer debated vigorously (perhaps it never was). The idealist in me is speaking in me again but there needs to be a greater interaction between different political persuasions.
The other issue to come out of the Fraser affair is that while I believe the University has no right to comment on what he says himself, if he labels himself as from the University I believe they then have a course of action, if I use the reputation of the company then I believe the company has the right to defend that reputation. However – as I look at the case of Professor Fraser – why not instead of suspending him – force him to defend his position. People should be free to express any view, but let us, as Hugh Mackay wrote in the Sun Herald, have debate out in the open, where facts can be weighed up against emotion, and prejudice exposed, fears allayed, or reinforced by the evidence”.
Some further reading.
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