The song of the week for me has been Brooke Fraser's Arithmetic. Off of her album What To Do With Daylight, Arithmetic has become one of my all-time favorite songs. Brooke's deep, soulful lyrics, blended with the orchestral strains and rhythmic piano reflects her heart's cry, and the piece is beautiful. Don't just take my word for it. Listen and judge for yourselves.
Friday, January 29, 2010
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Never Again, She Said
Experience is the best teacher. Or so they say. It seems like most of my mishap adventures occur on my college campus. I am starting to see a pattern. My latest escapade began yesterday, but I didn't realize my trouble until this afternoon at precisely 1:00pm. I was working on my Finite Math homework, and reached inside my wallet to pull out my student ID in order to check my number. But it wasn't there. Panic began to set in. I frantically emptied the entire contents of my purse, but to no avail. The ID card was gone.
I replayed the events of yesterday in my mind. I recalled slipping the card into the back pocket of my jeans, instead of my wallet, because I had just purchased my lunch. Weighted down as I was, what with my backpack [which weighs as much as a baby elephant] and purse securely strapped to my shoulders and my hands gripping my hot bag of Chick-Fil-A nuggets and fries, I found the pocket a more convenient place to store the card. That was my big mistake.
My class began at 1:30. And my heart was racing as I tried to figure out where the card could possibly be. I called home and had my sister check my jeans, which I had put through the washer that morning before I left. She not only searched the jeans, but the entire load of laundry. And she reported that the card was not to be found.
As I sat through my math class, my mind was occupied. Though I couldn't see my face, I knew it was clouded. I took notes, but I felt like a machine. Throughout the entire lecture, I was 'looking' for my ID card. Over and over, where could it be? To say I was distracted would be stating the obvious.
I shot out of class and headed straight for my car. I checked the seats, the floor, any conceivable spot the card could have dislodged itself. I decided to head home, as I had a large gap between my next class, and search for the ID tag myself. This was disheartening, because I had planned on working on getting some extra credit by attending Math and Speaker labs - but in order to get credit, I needed to swipe my ID card. Yeah, the one that I was missing...
About the time I reached the halfway point between campus and my home, it dawned on me that someone may have found my ID card and turned it in to the Card Services Department. If that were the case, they probably would have sent me an e-mail to notify me of the fact. And that it would have been wise to have checked my school mail inbox before dashing off for home. With that encouraging thought, I began to calm down.
By the time I reached the house, I was in a more rational state of mind. I grabbed my laptop and accessed my school account. To my great relief, the first message that I laid eyes on was from the Card Services, and it informed me that my ID card had been found and was awaiting pick up in their office.
My heart rate began to slow down. The burden that I had been carrying was lifted. All the scenarios that I had been envisioning - the horrible process of getting a new ID, the fees, the set-backs - all of my worries, fell away.
What is the take-away? Never, and I repeat, NEVER, will I so carelessly place my ID in the back pocket of my jeans ever again. It isn't worth the anxiety. One interesting thing about me: I rarely repeat my mistakes. I tend to learn from them. I pray that this experience is no exception.
At the end of the day, I have to ask myself, what do I ever gain by worrying? I am reminded of Christ's words: 25"Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes? 26Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? 27Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?" Matthew 6:25-27 KJV
Worry less, live more.
I replayed the events of yesterday in my mind. I recalled slipping the card into the back pocket of my jeans, instead of my wallet, because I had just purchased my lunch. Weighted down as I was, what with my backpack [which weighs as much as a baby elephant] and purse securely strapped to my shoulders and my hands gripping my hot bag of Chick-Fil-A nuggets and fries, I found the pocket a more convenient place to store the card. That was my big mistake.
My class began at 1:30. And my heart was racing as I tried to figure out where the card could possibly be. I called home and had my sister check my jeans, which I had put through the washer that morning before I left. She not only searched the jeans, but the entire load of laundry. And she reported that the card was not to be found.
As I sat through my math class, my mind was occupied. Though I couldn't see my face, I knew it was clouded. I took notes, but I felt like a machine. Throughout the entire lecture, I was 'looking' for my ID card. Over and over, where could it be? To say I was distracted would be stating the obvious.
I shot out of class and headed straight for my car. I checked the seats, the floor, any conceivable spot the card could have dislodged itself. I decided to head home, as I had a large gap between my next class, and search for the ID tag myself. This was disheartening, because I had planned on working on getting some extra credit by attending Math and Speaker labs - but in order to get credit, I needed to swipe my ID card. Yeah, the one that I was missing...
About the time I reached the halfway point between campus and my home, it dawned on me that someone may have found my ID card and turned it in to the Card Services Department. If that were the case, they probably would have sent me an e-mail to notify me of the fact. And that it would have been wise to have checked my school mail inbox before dashing off for home. With that encouraging thought, I began to calm down.
By the time I reached the house, I was in a more rational state of mind. I grabbed my laptop and accessed my school account. To my great relief, the first message that I laid eyes on was from the Card Services, and it informed me that my ID card had been found and was awaiting pick up in their office.
My heart rate began to slow down. The burden that I had been carrying was lifted. All the scenarios that I had been envisioning - the horrible process of getting a new ID, the fees, the set-backs - all of my worries, fell away.
What is the take-away? Never, and I repeat, NEVER, will I so carelessly place my ID in the back pocket of my jeans ever again. It isn't worth the anxiety. One interesting thing about me: I rarely repeat my mistakes. I tend to learn from them. I pray that this experience is no exception.
At the end of the day, I have to ask myself, what do I ever gain by worrying? I am reminded of Christ's words: 25"Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes? 26Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? 27Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?" Matthew 6:25-27 KJV
Worry less, live more.
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Fragments...
It is late, and I should be sleeping. But I cannot. So instead, I have decided to post another entry. Insomnia will serve a different purpose tonight.
The image that you see above was created in one of my classes for a lab assignment. I blended two separate images into a hazy, dreamy view of the Taj Mahal, which, though unrealistic, is imaginative. I have actually become quite attached to the resulting image. Though I have never actually seen the Taj Mahal, it has been a desire of mine to one day journey to Agra so that I may behold the wonder with my own eyes.
Having journeyed to Bangalore in May of 2009, my longing to return to India has grown. I have wanted to go to India since I was a little girl, and now that my dream has been fulfilled, now that I have actually been there, I wish to go back. So tonight, I my thoughts have drifted away to India ... wandering.
Returning to reality, I shiver in the bitter cold of winter, wishing the chills away. The memories of my time in India remain warm, but they are just that - a memory. Treasured. But now it is time to focus on what lies ahead. Hullo, challenges. I am ready to meet you.
The image that you see above was created in one of my classes for a lab assignment. I blended two separate images into a hazy, dreamy view of the Taj Mahal, which, though unrealistic, is imaginative. I have actually become quite attached to the resulting image. Though I have never actually seen the Taj Mahal, it has been a desire of mine to one day journey to Agra so that I may behold the wonder with my own eyes.
Having journeyed to Bangalore in May of 2009, my longing to return to India has grown. I have wanted to go to India since I was a little girl, and now that my dream has been fulfilled, now that I have actually been there, I wish to go back. So tonight, I my thoughts have drifted away to India ... wandering.
Returning to reality, I shiver in the bitter cold of winter, wishing the chills away. The memories of my time in India remain warm, but they are just that - a memory. Treasured. But now it is time to focus on what lies ahead. Hullo, challenges. I am ready to meet you.
Monday, January 25, 2010
The Perfect Match
PBS is airing Masterpiece Theater's adaption of Emma, and from what I have seen, they are doing a splendid job of bringing Jane Austen's classic tale to screen. Watching the story come to life, I was delighted with the portrayal of Emma as played by Romola Garai, for she brings a vivacity and spunk to her character. This is by far the best adaption of Emma ever filmed - better than BBC's previous version and much better than Gweneth Paltrow's portrayal. If you are a Jane Austen fan, this movie is the perfect match for you. I didn't want the story to end... Now I shall have to wait to see the rest of the movie. On the bright side, it gives me something to look forward to. Part two resumes next Sunday evening at 9. Lovely.
more about Emma...
Sunday, January 24, 2010
Loving Life
I did not set out to become a blogger. Nor did I ever intend, once I began posting entries into cyberspace, to create an online journal. This blog began as a school project, and even though I am no longer obligated to keep it up, I find that I rather enjoy writing. My blog has become a creative outlet.
As each passing day brings with it new trials, troubles, and worries, I have found that choosing to focus on the more positive aspects of my life overshadows the anxieties. I have stressed less this semester, which is a blessing. It has been a much smoother transition, easing back into school, for I now have a better idea of what to expect. And I cannot thank God enough for the amazing people that He has brought into my life. My family and friends are a constant source of encouragement for me.
It was because of my friends that I embarked on my first snowboarding adventure. As a result, a whole new world has opened up to me. I have discovered the thrills of snowboarding, and the rush of speed. I spent a wonderfully perfect day in the company of great companions. On the drive back, we listened to Lifehouse, ate junk food, and alternately balanced conversation with laughter and restful silence. As I sat in the back of the car, my mind was free of anxiety and I was utterly content. And that was wonderful.
To all of my friends: you know who you are. I don't think that I deserve you, but I cannot imagine life without you. If I haven't said as much, I want you to know how much I love you all. Thank you for your love and support.
image source
As each passing day brings with it new trials, troubles, and worries, I have found that choosing to focus on the more positive aspects of my life overshadows the anxieties. I have stressed less this semester, which is a blessing. It has been a much smoother transition, easing back into school, for I now have a better idea of what to expect. And I cannot thank God enough for the amazing people that He has brought into my life. My family and friends are a constant source of encouragement for me.
It was because of my friends that I embarked on my first snowboarding adventure. As a result, a whole new world has opened up to me. I have discovered the thrills of snowboarding, and the rush of speed. I spent a wonderfully perfect day in the company of great companions. On the drive back, we listened to Lifehouse, ate junk food, and alternately balanced conversation with laughter and restful silence. As I sat in the back of the car, my mind was free of anxiety and I was utterly content. And that was wonderful.
To all of my friends: you know who you are. I don't think that I deserve you, but I cannot imagine life without you. If I haven't said as much, I want you to know how much I love you all. Thank you for your love and support.
image source
Thursday, January 14, 2010
A Day in the Life
I have to laugh at myself. The first week of Spring semester and I arrived - for the first time in my history - late to class. I never intended to be a bad student. But I made a choice, and I do not regret my decision.
I had arranged to meet a dear friend of mine for coffee at a local McDonald's. She was getting ready to return to school, and the two of us had so much to catch up on that a phone conversation simply wouldn't cut it. Our countenances lit up when we greeted each other, and we fell into conversation with ease. Our friendship is beautiful, for we picked right up where we left off. We shared stories, events, hopes, and talked about our lives, listening earnestly and talking in turn.
When I glanced down at my watch, I realized with dismay that our meeting would have to come to an end if I was to make it to class on time. Embracing each other one last time, and promising to call throughout our semester, we both took our leave.
As luck would have it, I hit every single red light. Or so it seemed. When I finally reached campus, I had less than twenty minutes to find a parking spot and get to my classroom. Like that was going to happen.
Parking is one of those issues that is rarely discussed on my college campus. Everyone, students and faculty alike, deal with the frustrating problem of limited available spaces. But it is a touchy subject. It is actually kind of like the lottery. Sometimes, by random chance, you happen to luck out and get a terrific spot just as someone is vacating the lot. But most of the time, you end up circling lot after lot, making your way down the campus, searching for a place to park your vehicle, and all the while, precious mintues pass by making you later and later to class.
As it so happened on this fateful day, I was one of those luckless students. I parked a mile away from my class. And then I rushed off as fast as I could to the opposite end of the campus. Sweating in the cold. With my weighted down pack bumping against my back, dragging me down. I had 15 minutes to walk over a mile.
I arrived 3 minutes late. Disheveled, breathing short breaths, both hot and cold. I must have been quite the sight. But I was thankful to have made it.
I hope never to repeat this incident. And yet, at the same time, I think I would risk it all again if it meant spending time developing a meaningful relationship. Because, in the long run, what is more important: that I was a couple minutes late to class, or that I invested in a special friendship? I believe that people are more important than things. And that is why I do not regret my decision.
That being said, I slept hard when I got home. Really, really hard. My legs felt as though they were stretched to their limit. And I had to smile. I even laughed. Because you know what? I need the exercise. I am going snowboarding this weekend. My muscles can use the stretching. Ahhhh, life is good.
I had arranged to meet a dear friend of mine for coffee at a local McDonald's. She was getting ready to return to school, and the two of us had so much to catch up on that a phone conversation simply wouldn't cut it. Our countenances lit up when we greeted each other, and we fell into conversation with ease. Our friendship is beautiful, for we picked right up where we left off. We shared stories, events, hopes, and talked about our lives, listening earnestly and talking in turn.
When I glanced down at my watch, I realized with dismay that our meeting would have to come to an end if I was to make it to class on time. Embracing each other one last time, and promising to call throughout our semester, we both took our leave.
As luck would have it, I hit every single red light. Or so it seemed. When I finally reached campus, I had less than twenty minutes to find a parking spot and get to my classroom. Like that was going to happen.
Parking is one of those issues that is rarely discussed on my college campus. Everyone, students and faculty alike, deal with the frustrating problem of limited available spaces. But it is a touchy subject. It is actually kind of like the lottery. Sometimes, by random chance, you happen to luck out and get a terrific spot just as someone is vacating the lot. But most of the time, you end up circling lot after lot, making your way down the campus, searching for a place to park your vehicle, and all the while, precious mintues pass by making you later and later to class.
As it so happened on this fateful day, I was one of those luckless students. I parked a mile away from my class. And then I rushed off as fast as I could to the opposite end of the campus. Sweating in the cold. With my weighted down pack bumping against my back, dragging me down. I had 15 minutes to walk over a mile.
I arrived 3 minutes late. Disheveled, breathing short breaths, both hot and cold. I must have been quite the sight. But I was thankful to have made it.
I hope never to repeat this incident. And yet, at the same time, I think I would risk it all again if it meant spending time developing a meaningful relationship. Because, in the long run, what is more important: that I was a couple minutes late to class, or that I invested in a special friendship? I believe that people are more important than things. And that is why I do not regret my decision.
That being said, I slept hard when I got home. Really, really hard. My legs felt as though they were stretched to their limit. And I had to smile. I even laughed. Because you know what? I need the exercise. I am going snowboarding this weekend. My muscles can use the stretching. Ahhhh, life is good.
Friday, January 8, 2010
The Next Stage
Break has been wonderful. However, the time has come to face up to the harsher realities of life. I must go back to school. So I shall muster up my courage over the weekend and when Monday rears it's ugly face, I will meet it head on.
In view of that fact, the blog posts will be somewhat sporadic. In my entries, I am attempting to share the simple pleasures and joys of life, for it is meant to be lived. Whether it be in a song, an inspiring story, or an incident that occurred in the midst of a seemingly typical day that brought a smile to my face, I find all to be great material for posts. Hence the title Bits and Pieces. I would like to encourage you to find the beauty in the ordinary.
In view of that fact, the blog posts will be somewhat sporadic. In my entries, I am attempting to share the simple pleasures and joys of life, for it is meant to be lived. Whether it be in a song, an inspiring story, or an incident that occurred in the midst of a seemingly typical day that brought a smile to my face, I find all to be great material for posts. Hence the title Bits and Pieces. I would like to encourage you to find the beauty in the ordinary.
Signing off for now...
Friday, January 1, 2010
Rare Gems
As an avid reader, I am constantly on the prowl for new books to read. It runs in my family. My mother instilled in her children a love of books, and we have our own private 'library' upstairs. Four custom built shelves go from floor to ceiling, and they are filled with treasures. My first major furniture purchase was a Billie bookshelf from IKEA, and I am quickly filling in the empty spaces. Mom volunteers at a library downtown, and my brother is employed at our local library. I - and this should come as no surprise - work part time at a privately owned Christian bookstore.I have stated before that I judge books by their covers. When I first saw Fireflies in December, I was enchanted. The very title was poetry. Flipping the book open, I began to peruse the first chapter. Before I knew it, I was locked into the tale. The story swept me along, and the characters came to life in my mind. Jennifer Valent's book is a rare gem, one that you do not come across very often. People both young and old can easily relate to her protagonist and the supporting cast of characters. Readers will be charmed by the Southern coming of age tale, as seen through the eyes of a young thirteen year old girl named Jessilyn Lassiter.
Valent's second book, Cottonwood Whispers, continues the story several years later. And a third book, entitled Catching Moondrops, is set for release in Fall 2010. I am greatly anticipating it's arrival. Thus far, Valent's books have captured both the beauty and pain of life through the perspective of a young girl learning to face challenges as they come her way. If you are looking for a well-written, heart-warming piece of fiction, search no further. To learn more about Valent, visit her website: www.jennifervalent.com
Smashing Success
Ok, so I did it. I broke down and bit the bullet. I paid to see Avatar in 3D, in theaters. And honestly, I was impressed. James Cameron is being lauded as a genius, because he has done it again. The film has been out for a mere two weeks and has already grossed over $200 million. Avatar is the first movie that I have seen in 3D. And it took me on quite a ride. The visuals are stunning, and Cameron successfully created a convincing world, race, language, and culture. Pandora made a smooth transition from the concept stage to the big screen. Small wonder that so many are flocking to see it. Avatar is loaded, and delivers quite an awesome package.
The story, however, is loaded with Cameron's liberal agenda. If you are looking for a film with great content, I would suggest you search elsewhere. There are other elements of Avatar that are disturbing, such as anti-American sentiment and bizarre spiritualism [reminiscent of Disney's Pocahontas]. Having said that, it does not seem that audiences care about the storyline as much as the visual effects, because Avatar continues to break box office records.
From a visual perspective, Avatar is incredible. But I was not impressed with the substance of the movie. Truth be told, there is no substance in Avatar. This is not a movie that I would watch again.
Must See
My mother and I went on a special outing to see the film Julie and Julia, and the two of us were delighted by Meryl Streep's lovely portrayal of Julia Child. Mom, in particular, because she grew up watching Mrs. Child on television.
While I enjoyed the whole movie, there were several parts that were especially worthy of note. The film promoted marriage. The love that was shown throughout the lives of both Julia and modern-day Julie was a steadfast commitment, and was much deeper than a feeling. The relationship that the two women shared with their husbands was both tender and strong. They experienced their ups and downs, to be sure, but through it all, they remained devoted to each other. It is rare that a film so beautifully captures the true meaning of love, yet Julie and Julia did a superb job of it.
Another point of special interest for me was Julie's blog. Just like me, she used blogger.com to launch herself into cyberspace. And of course, what made the movie even more endearing to me was the fact that it was based upon truth. Both Julie and Julia are real, in-the-flesh people, and their stories were not fictional.
I know the movie has been out for some time now, but if you haven't taken the time to see it, I would highly recommend this heart-warming film.
While I enjoyed the whole movie, there were several parts that were especially worthy of note. The film promoted marriage. The love that was shown throughout the lives of both Julia and modern-day Julie was a steadfast commitment, and was much deeper than a feeling. The relationship that the two women shared with their husbands was both tender and strong. They experienced their ups and downs, to be sure, but through it all, they remained devoted to each other. It is rare that a film so beautifully captures the true meaning of love, yet Julie and Julia did a superb job of it.
Another point of special interest for me was Julie's blog. Just like me, she used blogger.com to launch herself into cyberspace. And of course, what made the movie even more endearing to me was the fact that it was based upon truth. Both Julie and Julia are real, in-the-flesh people, and their stories were not fictional.
I know the movie has been out for some time now, but if you haven't taken the time to see it, I would highly recommend this heart-warming film.
Daylight is Coming
Bursting to share this jewel with you. Brooke Fraser's limited release, What To Do With Daylight [abridged], is a work of art. The melodies are beautiful, the lyrics soulful, and Brooke's voice is a breath of fresh air. One of my favorite songs recorded happens to be Arithmatic, in which Brooke sings about the uncertainties of life as she contemplates the vastness of the starry sky above. She comes to the conclusion that even through the constant changes, God remains faithful, the only certain One, and she desires Him above all else. Beautifully expressed in the lines: 'Cos if I add, if I subtract/ if I give it all, try to take some back/ I've forgotten the freedom that comes from the fact/ that You are the sum/ so You are the One/ I want.
Usher in the new year with these lovely songs. I don't think that you'll regret it. To learn more about Brooke Fraser, check out her official webiste: www.brookefraser.com
Usher in the new year with these lovely songs. I don't think that you'll regret it. To learn more about Brooke Fraser, check out her official webiste: www.brookefraser.com
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