This one will be...challenging.
My good friend Mark Bryan is no longer with us.
I'm already not looking forward to my thoughts the first time I step into Rees Gym for a PCS game. Oh, don't get me wrong; I love the game and the guys still there. But there will be a gigantic, gaping void for me. Plus, it was in that gym that Mark drew his last breath. But I won't go there again. I've written about that elsewhere.
My prediction is that the wound will never fully heal for me. But like many wounds, it will become increasingly more manageable. And I join my buddy Norman Rowe in believing that seeing the gym packed for a game will be most helpful in the healing journey.
Of course, the other change--much less significant than Mark's passing--about hoops season this year is that I'm no longer on the faculty of PCS. So, I'll be going as a sort of outsider, for the first time. Which will be tough for me.
As Mark's successor, my buddy Matthew Lofton, says, "Let's do this!"
I can't wait.
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
Thursday, October 11, 2007
The Class of 77. (30 years later…)
Mike Madaris
Musically, we were torn between the radical protest music of the 60s, the softer music of the 70s, the continuation of the hard rock movement, and the arrival of disco. Those of us into jazz were confused by what Miles Davis had become and were electrified by Al DiMeola and Chick Corea.
Socially, drinking and other things happened, but they were still ever-so-somewhat taboo. We had graduated from fairly strict dress code enforcement during junior high to fairly loose standards in high school. Our yearbook photos provide evidence of this…
During our school days, we had witnessed a man landing safely on the moon and returning; an early 60s president’s challenge fulfilled. We saw the escalation…the massive escalation…of the
Ours was a huge class. There were well over 600 of us. We were musicians, artists, athletes, surfers, scholars, and regular folks. We were hippies, preppies, burnouts, and fishheads. We loved Mrs. “Mama Jo” Yeager and Mrs. Almond, we respected Mr. Jones, we laughed with (or was it “at”?) Mr. Kelleher, and we disliked a few too. We guys grew our hair long, thinking that made us cool. The girls wore dresses short & tight, thinking the same thing.
We went to football games, basketball games, baseball games, and the occasional track meet. We hated Vikings—the cross-town rival, not the ancient warriors. We went skiing, we went to the beach, we went to Victor’s and the Hog’s Breath, though we lied to our parents about those last two. Of course, we went to prom and to post-game dances. We fell into love and back out of love. Largely, we had no clue what love was. But we sure thought we did.
And then we graduated. Some went to college at
Some took jobs and began their work life earlier. Some went into the military. We got married, we had children, we gained weight, we lost hair. Some moved away after college or due to work. Others stayed. Many of us who moved away wish we had stayed put. Or could come back.
Regardless of the bends in these past 30 years’ roads, we remain somehow connected by time spent at a place called
When I left high school, I arrogantly said I’d never come back. That lasted until the following Fall, when I ventured home & went to the stadium for a football game. The oh-so-familiar drum cadence began, and the buzz of anticipation raced through the crowd. I still love that anticipation and excitement, even after my own son’s playing days on another football field have come to an end. Just a few years ago, I once again marched with my brother and his son in an alumni Style Marchers band. And loved it. I still love to watch live jazz; partly just for the music, and partly because it reminds me of my days of trying—unsuccessfully—to master to art while in the Modern Jazz Ensemble at CHS.
We remember those who are now absent, teachers, parents, and classmates. They are missed, and their value and impact is somehow magnified as life progresses. At least part of who we are is traceable to them.
So, now we gather again. 30 years. 30 years ago, we thought that people our age were desperately old and hopelessly out of touch. (Indeed, I am now older than my Dad ever became, which is a mind-boggling reality to grasp.) Now, we realize that having been out of HS for 30 years does not equal “old.” At least, not real old.
Oh, sure, the waistline has expanded, and the hairline is now receding in multiple directions, and “40 time” is now related to how many traffic lights my car must stop for rather than how fast we run. And, yeah, there are pills to take that help with “old people” things like cholesterol and blood pressure. And the days of baking in the sun on purpose throughout the day are a distant memory, buried somewhere on the other side of sun-related cancer surgeries in my case. And our music is now played on “classic” stations, or, worse, in elevators and dentist offices. Wierdly, though, it also shows up on our children’s IPODs too. Which is at once comforting and unsettling.
But somewhere around here, there is a smallish, uncertain guy with horrible-looking long hair who never imagined being this, um, “vintage.” Who still remembers the difference between 8-to-5 and 6-to-5 marching…and who still remembers the formula for “Cosine of a Sum” thanks to Mrs. Almond’s “songs” in class…and who still remembers some of the words to the CHS alma mater…who still remembers giving speeches in Mrs. Yeager’s class…and who still lets his freak flag fly in between mortgage payments, college tuition, Dr. visits, career moves, and that sort of thing.
Emerson,
It’s class reunion time! I can’t wait. See you there!
Friday, October 05, 2007
Homecoming at the Capstone
So, tomorrow is homecoming at the University of Alabama. And I will be there, um, coming home.
We Bama alums take such things seriously. Too seriously in many cases. It is estimated that there will be some 120,000 people on campus tomorrow. 92,000 & change will be among the lucky ones who will have a ticket to the game. (yeah...I'll be part of the 92,000...). The others will chill out on the quad, eat, drink, listen to Kenny & Snake call the game on the radio, and watch whatever other games are on TV.
We'll walk around campus reminiscing. (Well, I will...) About football to be sure. But much more in my case. In many cases.
It was as an undergrad student there that I found academic redemption. My first attempt at college was...not successful. But at Bama, I hit my stride (as our fight song says) and came to love and to succeed in the classroom. It was as an undergrad there that this great econ professor and this great management science professor independently encouraged me to consider grad school. (Thanks, Dr. Bird & Dr. Charnetski, wherever you both are now...) It was as an undergrad at Bama that I caught up with some reality. To wit, as was stated in Animal House, "fat, drunk, and stupid is no way to go through life, son." The lasting irony is that once I put away the party life, I began have faaaaaaar more fun. Still am, as a matter of fact!
It was an undergrad there that I watched the last 3 years of the reign of a childhood hero of mine in person. I even attended his funeral. Later, I taught his grandson. Thanks for the memories, Coach Bryant. I still get chill bumps reflecting back on those days and those teams and the way you conducted yourself there at the end of your career.
It was as an undergrad there that I met this young lady from the country of south Alabama. Her discernment meter was malfunctioning, & thus she began to spend time with me. (I was not much of a catch back then...perhaps not much of one now, but surely not then...) Went on some actual dates with me. Listened to my stories. And to my heart. Years ago, Felix Pappalardi penned these words: "and my Lady hears every note I play..." That's one of my favorite song lines of all time. I proposed near the end of my undergrad days after a couple of years of dating. Again, her meter malfunctioned, and she said yes. We married after my first year of grad school there, which was right after she graduated. This past June was 23 years, grad school, 6 jobs, 3 cities, a trailer, two apartments, two houses, and two kids later. She's still my best friend and she still hears every note my heart plays. Thanks, Lis. I love you!
It was as an undergrad there that I rediscovered long lost/abandoned faith from years before. I began attending church with my aunt, basically because I love my aunt. Then, I went with that same young lady. I met a bunch of folks who had a blast, and yet took their faith seriously. Prior to meeting them, I had decided that faith/fun were opposite ends of the spectrum. They demonstrated otherwise. Thanks, Aunt Daisy, for not giving up on me! And thanks, Gary, Jimmy, Cindy, Tom, David, Karen, Keith, and the rest for living your life and your faith before me, while still loving my un-love-ly self just like I was. I wanted what you had. Your lives and stories made a difference to me. Still do.
So, when I say I'm "coming home" tomorrow, yeah, sure, I plan to enjoy the living heck out of a football game. But homecoming to me is much, much more than merely an opportunity to eat unhealthy food & yell at the refs. Homecoming re-connects me with some of the deepest places in the very bedrock of my soul. Life-defining places, thoughts, emotions, & events. Sure...they could have happened elsewhere. But they didn't. For me, in God's providence, they happened on/near campus at the University of Alabama.
It's homecoming time. I'll be there. I can't wait! Roll Tide!
the beach bum
We Bama alums take such things seriously. Too seriously in many cases. It is estimated that there will be some 120,000 people on campus tomorrow. 92,000 & change will be among the lucky ones who will have a ticket to the game. (yeah...I'll be part of the 92,000...). The others will chill out on the quad, eat, drink, listen to Kenny & Snake call the game on the radio, and watch whatever other games are on TV.
We'll walk around campus reminiscing. (Well, I will...) About football to be sure. But much more in my case. In many cases.
It was as an undergrad student there that I found academic redemption. My first attempt at college was...not successful. But at Bama, I hit my stride (as our fight song says) and came to love and to succeed in the classroom. It was as an undergrad there that this great econ professor and this great management science professor independently encouraged me to consider grad school. (Thanks, Dr. Bird & Dr. Charnetski, wherever you both are now...) It was as an undergrad at Bama that I caught up with some reality. To wit, as was stated in Animal House, "fat, drunk, and stupid is no way to go through life, son." The lasting irony is that once I put away the party life, I began have faaaaaaar more fun. Still am, as a matter of fact!
It was an undergrad there that I watched the last 3 years of the reign of a childhood hero of mine in person. I even attended his funeral. Later, I taught his grandson. Thanks for the memories, Coach Bryant. I still get chill bumps reflecting back on those days and those teams and the way you conducted yourself there at the end of your career.
It was as an undergrad there that I met this young lady from the country of south Alabama. Her discernment meter was malfunctioning, & thus she began to spend time with me. (I was not much of a catch back then...perhaps not much of one now, but surely not then...) Went on some actual dates with me. Listened to my stories. And to my heart. Years ago, Felix Pappalardi penned these words: "and my Lady hears every note I play..." That's one of my favorite song lines of all time. I proposed near the end of my undergrad days after a couple of years of dating. Again, her meter malfunctioned, and she said yes. We married after my first year of grad school there, which was right after she graduated. This past June was 23 years, grad school, 6 jobs, 3 cities, a trailer, two apartments, two houses, and two kids later. She's still my best friend and she still hears every note my heart plays. Thanks, Lis. I love you!
It was as an undergrad there that I rediscovered long lost/abandoned faith from years before. I began attending church with my aunt, basically because I love my aunt. Then, I went with that same young lady. I met a bunch of folks who had a blast, and yet took their faith seriously. Prior to meeting them, I had decided that faith/fun were opposite ends of the spectrum. They demonstrated otherwise. Thanks, Aunt Daisy, for not giving up on me! And thanks, Gary, Jimmy, Cindy, Tom, David, Karen, Keith, and the rest for living your life and your faith before me, while still loving my un-love-ly self just like I was. I wanted what you had. Your lives and stories made a difference to me. Still do.
So, when I say I'm "coming home" tomorrow, yeah, sure, I plan to enjoy the living heck out of a football game. But homecoming to me is much, much more than merely an opportunity to eat unhealthy food & yell at the refs. Homecoming re-connects me with some of the deepest places in the very bedrock of my soul. Life-defining places, thoughts, emotions, & events. Sure...they could have happened elsewhere. But they didn't. For me, in God's providence, they happened on/near campus at the University of Alabama.
It's homecoming time. I'll be there. I can't wait! Roll Tide!
the beach bum
Sunday, September 30, 2007
Worship this morning...
So, yesterday, I got to spend time with my buddy Eddie Baker, who is awaiting lab results from a biopsy done last week on a tumor in his brain. It was an incredible blessing to hear Eddie's heart as he shared what he's been learning during his journey through the fire. (aside: for more on Eddie's situation go to this blog)
Then, this morning in church, we sang a couple of my all-time favorite songs. Both were written during challenging times in the lives of the writers. The first is "Heaven" performed by Bob Carlisle. To get the proper groove, this is a slow song best sung by an incredible tenor with great range, like, well, Bob Carlisle...or Dr. Brett Valentine who sang it at Temple. The second is "Days of Elijah" which is much more upbeat & grooving, as performed by the Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir...or the Temple Baptist choir with a very soulful female singer like our Jennie Bounds.
If I check out before you and you come to my funeral, plan on hearing "Heaven"...(but let's hope that's not any time right away...
)
Enjoy!
beachbum
Heaven
There are moments in this life
When it's hard to carry on
When I think about my father
And all the loved ones that are gone
Friends and close relations
Somewhere on the other side
They've passed into forever
But the love has never died
Sometimes this tired old world
Starts bringing my heart down
But you've got to bear the cross
If you want to wear the crown
I often get impatient
As the time keeps dragging on
I've waited through the darkness
Now I'm ready for the dawn
I'm ready for the dawn
(Chorus)
I want to see Heaven
Where the faithful carry on
I want to see Heaven, Oh Lord
I want to see Heaven
Where the pain of sin is gone
In Heaven, Oh Lord
I want to see Heaven
So if I'm living every moment
As if this day was my last
I'll put my treasure where my heart is
And forget about the past
And if Jesus comes tomorrow
I'll be ready to depart
As He leads me to my mansion
I'll be following my heart
Following my heart
(Repeat Chorus)
Well, I try to go the distance
But it's more than I can bear
They say there's no more crying
And no more dying there
I've held on to the promise
Whosoever will believe
Would have life that's never ending
I believe...I believe
(Repeat Chorus)
(Wipe tears from eyes & swallow deeply to remove lump from throat...)
Then, this morning in church, we sang a couple of my all-time favorite songs. Both were written during challenging times in the lives of the writers. The first is "Heaven" performed by Bob Carlisle. To get the proper groove, this is a slow song best sung by an incredible tenor with great range, like, well, Bob Carlisle...or Dr. Brett Valentine who sang it at Temple. The second is "Days of Elijah" which is much more upbeat & grooving, as performed by the Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir...or the Temple Baptist choir with a very soulful female singer like our Jennie Bounds.
If I check out before you and you come to my funeral, plan on hearing "Heaven"...(but let's hope that's not any time right away...
)Enjoy!
beachbum
Heaven
There are moments in this life
When it's hard to carry on
When I think about my father
And all the loved ones that are gone
Friends and close relations
Somewhere on the other side
They've passed into forever
But the love has never died
Sometimes this tired old world
Starts bringing my heart down
But you've got to bear the cross
If you want to wear the crown
I often get impatient
As the time keeps dragging on
I've waited through the darkness
Now I'm ready for the dawn
I'm ready for the dawn
(Chorus)
I want to see Heaven
Where the faithful carry on
I want to see Heaven, Oh Lord
I want to see Heaven
Where the pain of sin is gone
In Heaven, Oh Lord
I want to see Heaven
So if I'm living every moment
As if this day was my last
I'll put my treasure where my heart is
And forget about the past
And if Jesus comes tomorrow
I'll be ready to depart
As He leads me to my mansion
I'll be following my heart
Following my heart
(Repeat Chorus)
Well, I try to go the distance
But it's more than I can bear
They say there's no more crying
And no more dying there
I've held on to the promise
Whosoever will believe
Would have life that's never ending
I believe...I believe
(Repeat Chorus)
(Wipe tears from eyes & swallow deeply to remove lump from throat...)
Days Of Elijah
These are the days of Elijah,
Declaring the word of the Lord:
And these are the days of Your servant Moses,
Righteousness being restored.
And though these are days of great trial,
Of famine and darkness and sword,
Still, we are the voice in the desert crying
'Prepare ye the way of the Lord!'
Behold He comes riding on the clouds,
Shining like the sun at the trumpet call;
Lift your voice, it's the year of jubilee,
And out of Zion's hill salvation comes.
These are the days of Ezekiel,
The dry bones becoming as flesh;
And these are the days of Your servant David,
Rebuilding a temple of praise.
These are the days of the harvest,
The fields are as white in Your world,
And we are the laborers in Your vineyard,
Declaring the word of the Lord!
Behold He comes riding on the clouds,
Shining like the sun at the trumpet call;
Lift your voice, it's the year of jubilee,
And out of Zion's hill salvation comes.
There's no God like Jehovah.
There's no God like Jehovah!
Saturday, September 29, 2007
Any Given Saturday...
...as they say.
#1 USC - up by only 3 over Washington at the half.
#2 LSU - struggled early with Tulane. But then reality kicked in & they won handily.
#3 Oklahoma - lost to Colorado on a last-second field goal
#4 Florida - losing to Auburn at FL 17-3 in the 3rd quarter
#5 West VA - lost to #18 South FL last night 21-13
#6 Cal - beat #11 Oregon 31-24
#7 Texas - crushed 41-21 by Kansas State
#8 Ohio State - beating Minnesota 23-7
#9 Wisconsin - barely beat Michigan State
#10 Rutgers - lost to Maryland 34-24
#11 Oregon - lost to #6 Cal
#12 Boston College - beat U. Mass 24-14
#13 Clemson - thumped by Ga Tech 13-3
#14 - U of Ky - thrashes Fl Atlantic 45-17
#15 - U. of GA - thumps Ole Miss 45-17 (close for 3 quarters, but alas...)
#16 - South Carolina beats MSU 38-21
#17 - Va Tech beat U of North Carolina, but only 17-10
#18 South FL beat #5 West VA
#19 Hawaii - pounded Idaho 48-20
(ahem) #22 Alabama lost to FSU 21-14
Man, I love watching some college football!! One never knows...
#1 USC - up by only 3 over Washington at the half.
#2 LSU - struggled early with Tulane. But then reality kicked in & they won handily.
#3 Oklahoma - lost to Colorado on a last-second field goal
#4 Florida - losing to Auburn at FL 17-3 in the 3rd quarter
#5 West VA - lost to #18 South FL last night 21-13
#6 Cal - beat #11 Oregon 31-24
#7 Texas - crushed 41-21 by Kansas State
#8 Ohio State - beating Minnesota 23-7
#9 Wisconsin - barely beat Michigan State
#10 Rutgers - lost to Maryland 34-24
#11 Oregon - lost to #6 Cal
#12 Boston College - beat U. Mass 24-14
#13 Clemson - thumped by Ga Tech 13-3
#14 - U of Ky - thrashes Fl Atlantic 45-17
#15 - U. of GA - thumps Ole Miss 45-17 (close for 3 quarters, but alas...)
#16 - South Carolina beats MSU 38-21
#17 - Va Tech beat U of North Carolina, but only 17-10
#18 South FL beat #5 West VA
#19 Hawaii - pounded Idaho 48-20
(ahem) #22 Alabama lost to FSU 21-14
Man, I love watching some college football!! One never knows...
Friday, September 28, 2007
Are you an evangelical Christian? Do you want a challenge?
Then read Professor Wayne Grudem's Presidential Address to the Evangelical Theological Society in 2000. The article is found in pdf form here.
I've long been a fan of Grudem's; had the incredible pleasure of taking a class on "The Doctrine of God" from him some years ago out in CO. Harvard undergrad, Westminster Theological Seminary M.Div., Cambridge Ph.D. Author of books and over 100 journal articles. Very thoughtful. Brilliant scholar. Great teacher. My copy of his Systematic Theology is well-read and marked up. (aside: systematic theology is basically the approach of saying "Let's look at everything the Bible says about ________," which is, of course, the preferred way of addressing the problems facing the church & society.
In this article, he's addressing the premier academic society in evangelical Christianity. (Note to some: there are, in fact, very good academic scholars who would be very comfortable sitting next to me in church this weekend in terms of beliefs) Basically what he does in the address is challenge these scholars to take the Bible seriously and treat it like they say they believe. The article is not short, and it takes one through some deep waters. Again, it's addressed to Bible scholars. But the challenge Grudem presents is very direct. And at some level, it applies to all of us who claim to take the Bible seriously.
Take some time to read it. You'll be challenged. And, I hope, changed.
That's it for tonight.
Selah,
the beach bum
I've long been a fan of Grudem's; had the incredible pleasure of taking a class on "The Doctrine of God" from him some years ago out in CO. Harvard undergrad, Westminster Theological Seminary M.Div., Cambridge Ph.D. Author of books and over 100 journal articles. Very thoughtful. Brilliant scholar. Great teacher. My copy of his Systematic Theology is well-read and marked up. (aside: systematic theology is basically the approach of saying "Let's look at everything the Bible says about ________," which is, of course, the preferred way of addressing the problems facing the church & society.
In this article, he's addressing the premier academic society in evangelical Christianity. (Note to some: there are, in fact, very good academic scholars who would be very comfortable sitting next to me in church this weekend in terms of beliefs) Basically what he does in the address is challenge these scholars to take the Bible seriously and treat it like they say they believe. The article is not short, and it takes one through some deep waters. Again, it's addressed to Bible scholars. But the challenge Grudem presents is very direct. And at some level, it applies to all of us who claim to take the Bible seriously.
Take some time to read it. You'll be challenged. And, I hope, changed.
That's it for tonight.
Selah,
the beach bum
Wednesday, September 26, 2007
Monday, September 24, 2007
Jehovah Shammah
In Hebrew, it means approximately "God Who Is Present." One of my favorite biblical names of God. Why a blog post about it, you ask? I'm glad you asked.
2 friends of mine are utterly relying on His very presence today. I would ask you to pray for both situations.
My friend Eddie Baker is awaiting lab results from a biopsy last Thursday on a tumor recently found in his brain. He is very upbeat and positive, and he would say that his attitude is not his, but granted by the Lord. For more on Eddie's situation, go to prayforeddiebaker.blogspot.com.
Another friend, Carl Fortenberry, has a young son Max who is about to undergo heart surgery. When I say "young," I mean 2 1/2 years old. So, they're out in Houston in a hotel awaiting a bunch of medical tests followed by serious surgery for Max. Meanwhile, their other 3 older kids are back home with an aunt. Again, Carl & Courtney--and Max--have great attitudes about the situation, though Max is caught up in the thrill of it all...which thrill will likely end decisively today as the tests start. For more on their situation, go to prayformax.blogspot.com.
Jehovah Shammah. He is present. Which is pretty incredible to ponder.
Selah.
2 friends of mine are utterly relying on His very presence today. I would ask you to pray for both situations.
My friend Eddie Baker is awaiting lab results from a biopsy last Thursday on a tumor recently found in his brain. He is very upbeat and positive, and he would say that his attitude is not his, but granted by the Lord. For more on Eddie's situation, go to prayforeddiebaker.blogspot.com.
Another friend, Carl Fortenberry, has a young son Max who is about to undergo heart surgery. When I say "young," I mean 2 1/2 years old. So, they're out in Houston in a hotel awaiting a bunch of medical tests followed by serious surgery for Max. Meanwhile, their other 3 older kids are back home with an aunt. Again, Carl & Courtney--and Max--have great attitudes about the situation, though Max is caught up in the thrill of it all...which thrill will likely end decisively today as the tests start. For more on their situation, go to prayformax.blogspot.com.
Jehovah Shammah. He is present. Which is pretty incredible to ponder.
Selah.
Wednesday, September 19, 2007
And, once again, I'm back...
Long time, no post. I know you're disappointed. (or not...)
Go here http://prayforeddiebaker.blogspot.com. Eddie is one of my dear friends, who is facing a rather serious medical situation. Go, and pray as you will.
That's it. (more later...)
mm
Go here http://prayforeddiebaker.blogspot.com. Eddie is one of my dear friends, who is facing a rather serious medical situation. Go, and pray as you will.
That's it. (more later...)
mm
Sunday, September 25, 2005
I"m baaaack...
So, been a while here. (for my more active blog, see )
Where to begin...Hurricane Katrina? Sure, why not.
An unasked series of questions:
--Did anyone run across the ACLU disaster relief team? Anyone? Bueller? Bueller?
--How 'bout the American Atheists disaster relief team...surely we benefitted from their fine work. What? No?
Hmmmm....this must mean something. Well, dangit, who were the first & foremost disaster relief teams in S. MS after Katrina? That's not a rhetorical question. Please answer. Churches & other Christian groups? Correct!
Hmmmm...this, too, must mean something. I think it does. And I think it speaks loudly & clearly for itself. One one side of the anti-Christian/Christian debate is a group that is genuinely interested in helping, serving, and doing good deeds for others, even in the total absence of any recognition or press coverage. On the other side is the ACLU.
That is all I have for you. Talk's cheap, boys & girls!
the beach bum
Where to begin...Hurricane Katrina? Sure, why not.
An unasked series of questions:
--Did anyone run across the ACLU disaster relief team? Anyone? Bueller? Bueller?
--How 'bout the American Atheists disaster relief team...surely we benefitted from their fine work. What? No?
Hmmmm....this must mean something. Well, dangit, who were the first & foremost disaster relief teams in S. MS after Katrina? That's not a rhetorical question. Please answer. Churches & other Christian groups? Correct!
Hmmmm...this, too, must mean something. I think it does. And I think it speaks loudly & clearly for itself. One one side of the anti-Christian/Christian debate is a group that is genuinely interested in helping, serving, and doing good deeds for others, even in the total absence of any recognition or press coverage. On the other side is the ACLU.
That is all I have for you. Talk's cheap, boys & girls!
the beach bum
Tuesday, July 12, 2005
on hurricane thinking...
the beach bum
Background: I grew up in Ft. Walton Beach, FL, & Ma beach bum still lives there. Bro beach bum is in the process of trying to find employment such that he moves back there.
With that said, I have heard some strange things in the past few days related to hurricanes:
--"I'd give anything to fly in a hurricane hunter through a storm" (I agree...well, maybe not anything...but it would be very cool!)
--"What's the big deal about a hurricane, anyway?"
--(relatedly) "Why so much obsessive new coverage during Dennis?"
--"It was only a minor storm"
and then this from several folks here in S. MS, about 70 miles inland & 90 miles northwest of Mobile, AL (drum roll):
"Dang...I'm sooo disappointed that Dennis missed us" or "I'd love to be on the coast during a hurricane"
Basically, the previous thought is only uttered by those who have never lived on the coast when a hurricane struck. FYI, the beach bum has ridden out 2 storms on the coast, one in Ft. Walton Beach, FL, & one in Miami. I won't ride out another if I can help it! I'm struck by the randomness of it all. One house has virtually no damage; next door is a total disaster. One area of town has very little storm surge, another area of the same town is buried under water. One tree falls harmlessly in the back yard; another cuts a house in half. You get the idea.
I'm glad I've ridden out a hurricane, but I do not recommend it. One time was sheer stupidity & belligerence on my part (Miami). The other was bad luck. Ma beach bum & I got caught when one turned about 90 degrees & raced ashore. The turn caught a bunch of folks by surprise.
So I've been lucky twice.
As to "minor storm", here's an analogy for you. There's a humorous saying that goes like this: "Minor surgery is defined as surgery performed on someone else." I apply that same reasoning to hurricanes. A minor hurricane is one that strikes somewhere neither you nor any of your loved ones live. Ask residents of Navarre if they thought it was "minor". Ask residents of St. Marks--about 100 miles away from landfall--if they thought it was minor. You get the idea.
Now that ride on the hurricane hunter, on the other hand,...I'd love to make that one happen...
OK, I'm out.
the beach bum
Background: I grew up in Ft. Walton Beach, FL, & Ma beach bum still lives there. Bro beach bum is in the process of trying to find employment such that he moves back there.
With that said, I have heard some strange things in the past few days related to hurricanes:
--"I'd give anything to fly in a hurricane hunter through a storm" (I agree...well, maybe not anything...but it would be very cool!)
--"What's the big deal about a hurricane, anyway?"
--(relatedly) "Why so much obsessive new coverage during Dennis?"
--"It was only a minor storm"
and then this from several folks here in S. MS, about 70 miles inland & 90 miles northwest of Mobile, AL (drum roll):
"Dang...I'm sooo disappointed that Dennis missed us" or "I'd love to be on the coast during a hurricane"
Basically, the previous thought is only uttered by those who have never lived on the coast when a hurricane struck. FYI, the beach bum has ridden out 2 storms on the coast, one in Ft. Walton Beach, FL, & one in Miami. I won't ride out another if I can help it! I'm struck by the randomness of it all. One house has virtually no damage; next door is a total disaster. One area of town has very little storm surge, another area of the same town is buried under water. One tree falls harmlessly in the back yard; another cuts a house in half. You get the idea.
I'm glad I've ridden out a hurricane, but I do not recommend it. One time was sheer stupidity & belligerence on my part (Miami). The other was bad luck. Ma beach bum & I got caught when one turned about 90 degrees & raced ashore. The turn caught a bunch of folks by surprise.
So I've been lucky twice.
As to "minor storm", here's an analogy for you. There's a humorous saying that goes like this: "Minor surgery is defined as surgery performed on someone else." I apply that same reasoning to hurricanes. A minor hurricane is one that strikes somewhere neither you nor any of your loved ones live. Ask residents of Navarre if they thought it was "minor". Ask residents of St. Marks--about 100 miles away from landfall--if they thought it was minor. You get the idea.
Now that ride on the hurricane hunter, on the other hand,...I'd love to make that one happen...
OK, I'm out.
the beach bum
Tuesday, July 05, 2005
Live 8
the beach bum
A brief note on the Live 8 concert...
First, the Pink Floyd set was absolutely awesome! (That's the only set I saw...and one of the few I cared to see) Those boys still have it, after all the years & miles & age & arguments. Hard to believe they haven't played together in 24 years...
Now the idea behind it all...
Noble-minded. Compassionate. But fixing a shark bite with a band aid. Much is said in this country about "root cause." Until the root cause of famine in Africa is addressed, all the Live 8s & debt forgivenesses in the world won't solve the problem. The issue is corruption at the highest levels of government in the famine-torn regions of Africa. I read that one of the former dictatorial leaders of a small-ish country in Western Africa looted the oil fields of an amount approximately equal to their entire output over a several-year period. Which, of course, renders oil money useless to solve problems.
Also, I disagree with the anti-corporation, anti-money sentiment prevalent @ Live 8 & @ the G8 protests. Um, hello? With no money, how exactly are we in the affluent parts of the world going to help those in the less affluent regions? That darn logic rears its ugly head.
Finally, the self-importance of some of the artists involved. Cold Play's singer gushing that "this is the greatest event in the history of the world." Hmmm...the Revolutionary War, the French Revolution, the Rise & Fall of communism in Russia, the discovery of penicillen, the defeat of Hitler, the publication of the works of Shakespear, the work of Beethoven, Bach & Mozart,...not to mention the invention of written language,...and, of course, the birth, life, death, and resurrection of Christ...
Surely those are contenders...*sighs a heavy sigh*
I appreciate Bob Geldoff's heart and passion. I enjoyed the clips I did see, of U2, Sir Paul McCartney, and of course, Pink Floyd.
But let us not raise our hopes too high. And I say this with a heavy heart that is burdened for the peoples of Africa. A concert will not solve the problem. Neither will debt forgiveness.
Two words: root cause...
A brief note on the Live 8 concert...
First, the Pink Floyd set was absolutely awesome! (That's the only set I saw...and one of the few I cared to see) Those boys still have it, after all the years & miles & age & arguments. Hard to believe they haven't played together in 24 years...
Now the idea behind it all...
Noble-minded. Compassionate. But fixing a shark bite with a band aid. Much is said in this country about "root cause." Until the root cause of famine in Africa is addressed, all the Live 8s & debt forgivenesses in the world won't solve the problem. The issue is corruption at the highest levels of government in the famine-torn regions of Africa. I read that one of the former dictatorial leaders of a small-ish country in Western Africa looted the oil fields of an amount approximately equal to their entire output over a several-year period. Which, of course, renders oil money useless to solve problems.
Also, I disagree with the anti-corporation, anti-money sentiment prevalent @ Live 8 & @ the G8 protests. Um, hello? With no money, how exactly are we in the affluent parts of the world going to help those in the less affluent regions? That darn logic rears its ugly head.
Finally, the self-importance of some of the artists involved. Cold Play's singer gushing that "this is the greatest event in the history of the world." Hmmm...the Revolutionary War, the French Revolution, the Rise & Fall of communism in Russia, the discovery of penicillen, the defeat of Hitler, the publication of the works of Shakespear, the work of Beethoven, Bach & Mozart,...not to mention the invention of written language,...and, of course, the birth, life, death, and resurrection of Christ...
Surely those are contenders...*sighs a heavy sigh*
I appreciate Bob Geldoff's heart and passion. I enjoyed the clips I did see, of U2, Sir Paul McCartney, and of course, Pink Floyd.
But let us not raise our hopes too high. And I say this with a heavy heart that is burdened for the peoples of Africa. A concert will not solve the problem. Neither will debt forgiveness.
Two words: root cause...
Friday, June 24, 2005
property rights
the beach bum
Property rights? We (apparently) don't need no stinkin' property rights. Thus saith the U.S. Supreme Court.
I disagree. That is all.
Property rights? We (apparently) don't need no stinkin' property rights. Thus saith the U.S. Supreme Court.
I disagree. That is all.
Monday, June 13, 2005
underreported news from Iraq
the beach bum
Go here and read this collection of underreported news from Iraq. Not much of this will be found in your local papers.
That's it.
Go here and read this collection of underreported news from Iraq. Not much of this will be found in your local papers.
That's it.
Monday, May 30, 2005
Memorial Day
It's Memorial Day. A time to celebrate...and a time to remember.
There are so many words, poems, songs, etc. that “work” on this day. I thought I’d compile some images of those who paid the ultimate price (and some left behind). Nobody in my immediate family served in
Growing up near Eglin Air Force Base—then the largest AF base in the world—meant that many of my friends’ Dads served. And some paid with their lives. There were those in my home town who won the Congressional Medal of Honor. Some served that most difficult assignment: prisoner of war. So my home town runs deep with patriotic fever. Note carefully, that there are democrats and republicans there. Liberals and conservatives. Patriotism, like heroism, is not tied to any particular place on the political spectrum.
I didn’t know any of these individuals personally.
Maj. Carl Drake was an Air Force pilot. Before going to Viet Nam, he led the Air Force ROTC program at LSU. He was a native of Ohio, but his last U.S. address was St. Petersburg, FL. His outfit was based out of McDill Air Force base in Tampa. Major Drake was shot down over Cambodia on June 18, 1970. His remains have not been found.
Carl Drake's younger son Randy was a friend of mine when I was @ U. of FL. Randy still wears his Dad’s watch that was sent home with Major Drake's personal effects after he was shot down. Randy was 11 when his Dad was killed. Carl had just turned 37 a couple of weeks earlier. Randy is now 46, like me. When I knew him, Randy was strikingly handsome. Big, strong, well-spoken, athletic. Just like his Dad must have been. Major Drake's name appears inPanel 9W, Row 65 of the Wall in Washington.
Capt. Tom Metsker and Lt. Jack Geoghegan are heroes of mine. They became so when I read the wonderful book We Were Soldiers Once...And Young that their commanding officer wrote about the battle in the Ia Drang valley in
Capt. Metsker, slightly wounded, was already on board a medevac helicopter, awaiting takeoff. He noticed that one of his fellow soldiers was being carried toward the same helicopter. Capt. Metsker cimbed off of the helicopter to help a more seriously wounded soldier get on board. That’s when Capt. Metsker was shot and killed. The other guy survived. Jesus once said "greater love hath no man than when he lay down his life for his friends." Captain Metsker left behind a wife and a very young daughter. He was 27 years old when he was killed.
Lt. Geoghegan died when he turned back under heavy fire to help one of his soldiers who had been shot. Lt. Geoghegan and the soldier, Willie Godbolt, died side by side. Which is how their names appear on the wall. If you’ve seen the movie “We Were Soldiers”, you’ll remember Lt. Geoghegan’s character well. He was one of the good guys. Married, & thrilled about his young daughter. Thoughtful. Christian. You’ll remember Mel Gibson/Hal Moore praying w/ Lt. Geoghegan shortly before heading out to
Here's a brief tribute written by his widow just a few years ago. (She later remarried)
What a joy it is for me to know that he lives on in his precious daughter, Cammie, and his granddaughters, Stephanie and Julia. His loving, altruistic spirit is a part of all who knew him, from Pelham, NY where he grew up, to Widener University in PA (PMC in his time) where he is still a legend, and in Afica where we lived and he worked for the Catholic Relief Services, distributing US surplus food to the schoolchildren of Tanzania. Jack represented the best there is in life! He will always be part of us. Posted by: Barbara Geoghegan Johns
Relationship: He is my husband
Monday, November 5, 2001
I did not have any previous connection with Lt. Jack Rittichier, prior to my websearch for Memorial Day information. I am captivated by his story and the story of the recovery of his remains though. In case you’re wondering, I’m still quite bitter at our government, the Vietnamese government, the Cambodian government, and the Laotian government about the MIAs. I don’t think any of the four governments did all they could to recover the MIAs…or more likely, their remains.
Lt. Rittichier was a helicopter pilot who flew recovery missions, rescuing downed pilots. In 1968, a Marine pilot was shot down near an enemy encampment in Laos. The enemy used the downed pilot as bait to draw in U.S. helicopters and shoot at them. Lt. Rittichier was approaching the very hot landing zone when ground fire caught his helicopter on fire. Shortly after landing, the helicopter blew up.
35 years later, Lt. Rittichier's remains were located in the jungles of Laos. He was buried with military honors at Arlington. He left behind a wife who later remarried. She said that she was glad Lt. Rittichier was not forgotten.
Finally, I did not know Cpl Roy Wheat either. However, a good friend of mine from the Sunday School class I teach was a classmate of
I watched a show featuring Hal Moore yesterday. He’s the co-author of We Were Soldiers, and was the CO of the outfit that Capt. Metsker and Lt. Geoghegan were part of. Mel Gibson played Hal Moore in the movie.
Anyway, here’s what he said. Only God knows what those 58,000 people could have done with their lives had they been able to live them.
The same goes for those who died at Normandy (cemetery shot below), on Okinawa, on Sicily, in the Ardennes Forest, on the USS Maine, at Gettysburg,….Which is why I have always been haunted by the words of Major Michael O’Donnell. (see below)
I remember. I honor all of the heroes that these few represent. And I thank God that I am free because they served, fought, and died.
So, it’s Memorial Day. In the midst of all the cookouts, water sports, shopping, & all that, take just a moment to remember that freedom is never free. It is very costly. Many have given their very lives in defense of that freedom. As Major O’Donnell wrote, “save for them a place…”
Some writings from others...
Our dead brothers still live for us and bid us think of life, not death -- of life to which in their youth, they lent the passion and glory of Spring. As I listen, the great chorus of life and joy begins again, and amid the awful orchestra of seen and unseen powers and destinies of good and evil, our trumpets, sound once more a note of daring, hope, and will.
~ Oliver Wendell Holmes ~
The Sentinel’s Creed
(for those who stand guard at the tomb of the unknown soldier at
My dedication to this sacred duty is total and whole-hearted.
In the responsibility bestowed on me, never will I falter.
And with dignity and perseverance, my standard will remain perfection.
Through the years of diligence and praise and the discomfort of the elements,
I will walk my tour in humble reverence to the best of my ability.
It is he who commands the respect that I protect.
His bravery that made us so proud.
Surrounded by well-meaning crowds by day,
Alone in the thoughtful peace of night,
This soldier will in honored glory rest under my eternal vigilance.
"Your silent tents of green
We deck with fragrant flowers;
Yours has the suffering been,
The memory shall be ours."
Henry
This is a song by the Statler Brothers:
More Than A Name on a Wall
I can see her from a distance,
As she walks up to the Wall,
And a little boy beside her
With a face that I recall;
And she takes out pen and paper
As to trace a memory,
And the little boy said,
Mama, that's the same name as me.
She said, Son, it's someone special,
And he meant a lot to me;
Even though you've never seen him,
I'm sure he'd be proud to see
A young man who looks just like him,
And who'll grow up strong and tall;
I know then you'll understand,
Your daddy's more than a name on a wall.
And being home on Christmas day,
And he died for God and country
In a place so far away;
But I think you understand,
So, son, just be proud of him,
Cause God surely knows I am.
And he meant a lot to me;
Even though you've never seen him,
I'm sure he'd be proud to see
A young man who looks just like him,
And who'll grow up strong and tall;
I know then you'll understand,
Your daddy's more than a name on a wall.
C 1989 SONGS OF UNIVERSAL - MCA
All Rights Reserved
"If you are able, save for them a place inside of you and save one backward glance when you are leaving for the places they can no longer go.
And in that time when men decide and feel safe to call the war insane, take one moment to embrace those gentle heroes you left behind."
Major Michael Davis O'Donnell
1 January 1970 Dak To,
Listed as KIA February 7, 1978
Thursday, May 26, 2005
lessons learned as a geometry teacher...
the beach bum
So, school officially ended today. Next year, I'll only have half the teaching load, as I roll into a new position of "Director of College Planning and Placement."
What follows are some things I learned as a Geometry teacher these past 2 1/2 years...
--Almost nobody walks into my class thinking "Yippee! I love learning Geometry!"
--There are, in fact, students who actually enjoy the type of logical thinking used in doing proofs. But there are not very many of them.
--Very few math teachers think "Hey, I want to teach Geometry!"
--In the words of one of my graduate school professors, "Homework very important!"
--It's a good thing for Geometry teachers to have some artistic skill.
--I have none. (I already knew this, of course, but it was revealed on an almost-daily basis as I sought to draw various geometric shapes.)
--The line "Humor is not funny if you have to explain it" also applies in my classroom. To wit, "A drawing is not that helpful if you have to explain what it is that you've drawn."
--The meaning behind the name of ancient Indian chief SOHCAHTOA.
--The significance of the sentence "Oh Hallelujah! Another Hour of Algebra!"
--That most students prefer the version that substitutes the place of eternal damnation of souls for "hallelujah"
--Not only can I not draw those figures, very few students can do so either.
--Almost nobody remembers the difference between a theorem, a postulate, and a corollary
--Students understand triangles pretty well, though none like them very much.
--Ditto circles.
--Students frequently lose the subtle, elegant differences between a parallelogram, a rectangle, a square, and a rhombus.
--Logic is a good thing. In virtually all of life.
--Geometry is useful in many places outside of the Geometry classroom. I dare you to plan a trip without using any Geometric principles.
--If a student is disinclined toward 2-column proofs, it does not help very much to introduce flow proofs and indirect proofs into the mix.
--Nobody likes spherical geometry unless they are fairly odd. Like me.
And the most important thing I learned teaching Geometry?
Teaching Geometry offers an excellent opportunity to connect with and befriend (and maybe even influence!) students. I'm already looking forward to drinking coffee with some of my "beach bum alums" this summer. I'm also looking forward to them dropping by my office to say hello next year. And I'm very excited about connecting with each individually as the new "Director of College Planning and Placement." Beyond that, I am so eagerly anticipating what the Lord has in store for my young friends' lives.
To my students, you are loved much. Way more than I can say. Regardless of how well you did (or didn't do) in Geometry class.
So, have a wonderful summer. And remember that there's a short, 4-eyed, extremely handsome athlete/joker wannabe who is crazy about you and is honored to have been part of your educational process. (Even if you did not particularly enjoy that part of the educational process!)
the beach bum
So, school officially ended today. Next year, I'll only have half the teaching load, as I roll into a new position of "Director of College Planning and Placement."
What follows are some things I learned as a Geometry teacher these past 2 1/2 years...
--Almost nobody walks into my class thinking "Yippee! I love learning Geometry!"
--There are, in fact, students who actually enjoy the type of logical thinking used in doing proofs. But there are not very many of them.
--Very few math teachers think "Hey, I want to teach Geometry!"
--In the words of one of my graduate school professors, "Homework very important!"
--It's a good thing for Geometry teachers to have some artistic skill.
--I have none. (I already knew this, of course, but it was revealed on an almost-daily basis as I sought to draw various geometric shapes.)
--The line "Humor is not funny if you have to explain it" also applies in my classroom. To wit, "A drawing is not that helpful if you have to explain what it is that you've drawn."
--The meaning behind the name of ancient Indian chief SOHCAHTOA.
--The significance of the sentence "Oh Hallelujah! Another Hour of Algebra!"
--That most students prefer the version that substitutes the place of eternal damnation of souls for "hallelujah"
--Not only can I not draw those figures, very few students can do so either.
--Almost nobody remembers the difference between a theorem, a postulate, and a corollary
--Students understand triangles pretty well, though none like them very much.
--Ditto circles.
--Students frequently lose the subtle, elegant differences between a parallelogram, a rectangle, a square, and a rhombus.
--Logic is a good thing. In virtually all of life.
--Geometry is useful in many places outside of the Geometry classroom. I dare you to plan a trip without using any Geometric principles.
--If a student is disinclined toward 2-column proofs, it does not help very much to introduce flow proofs and indirect proofs into the mix.
--Nobody likes spherical geometry unless they are fairly odd. Like me.
And the most important thing I learned teaching Geometry?
Teaching Geometry offers an excellent opportunity to connect with and befriend (and maybe even influence!) students. I'm already looking forward to drinking coffee with some of my "beach bum alums" this summer. I'm also looking forward to them dropping by my office to say hello next year. And I'm very excited about connecting with each individually as the new "Director of College Planning and Placement." Beyond that, I am so eagerly anticipating what the Lord has in store for my young friends' lives.
To my students, you are loved much. Way more than I can say. Regardless of how well you did (or didn't do) in Geometry class.
So, have a wonderful summer. And remember that there's a short, 4-eyed, extremely handsome athlete/joker wannabe who is crazy about you and is honored to have been part of your educational process. (Even if you did not particularly enjoy that part of the educational process!)
the beach bum
Wednesday, May 18, 2005
a full heart
the beach bum
My heart is full tonight--which means my tear ducts are too!--for several reasons.
First, another year is ending. Which means students moving on out of school and/or out of classes I teach. Geometry is fun. Coaching is fun. Worldview is really fun. But all of that pales for me when compared to connections made with students. I really do love them. (Note: if you've ever considered going into education, I highly recommend it for this reason!)
Second, experience (alright...old age) tells me what some of the obstacles are that my young friends are facing as they move into college and beyond. Obstacles they are not even aware of yet. How I wish I could shelter them just a tad longer from some of the harsh vagaries life will surely offer! But that would stunt growth. Painfully-acquired growth, but growth surely.
Third, my youngest nephew graduates Friday. But I've already written about that in this space.
Fourth, I'll get to hang w/ my brother this weekend. Much fun! And something that doesn't happen nearly often enough.
Fifth, I know this will be a "full-heart" weekend for Mom. Joy and loss all at once.
Sixth, this graduation means that my beloved son is now a senior. Which means, in just one year, he'll be one of the ones graduating. And probably moving out of my house. After I graduated from HS, I never lived @ Mom's again for more than a couple of months here & there when out of college. I am very excited for him. And I hate the thought of his moving out of my house.
I'll go ahead & put everyone on notice. I'm going to be a worthless, wimpy basket case all of this next year. I apologize in advance to all of my macho male friends, because I'm going to embarrass every one of you this next year. I've never been afraid to cry...and I've never faced anything as hard as this will be. Consider yourselves forewarned.
One friend & wife drove their son to college about 5 1/2 hours away. He said that his wife said about two words the entire way back home. Yeah, that'll be me.
It's my strong wish and prayer for all of this year's graduates that God grant each a long and successful, dream-achieving, difference-making, God-entranced life.
Bob Dylan expresses my wish for each HS graduate friend of mine. I'll close with his words because my tear ducts are flowing freely. I have always loved this song. Enjoy!
Forever Young
Bob Dylan
May God bless and keep you always,
May your wishes all come true,
May you always do for others
And let others do for you.
May you build a ladder to the stars
And climb on every rung,
May you stay forever young,
Forever young, forever young,
May you stay forever young.
May you grow up to be righteous,
May you grow up to be true,
May you always know the truth
And see the lights surrounding you.
May you always be courageous,
Stand upright and be strong,
May you stay forever young,
Forever young, forever young,
May you stay forever young.
May your hands always be busy,
May your feet always be swift,
May you have a strong foundation
When the winds of changes shift.
May your heart always be joyful,
May your song always be sung,
May you stay forever young,
Forever young, forever young,
May you stay forever young.
Copyright © 1973 Ram's Horn Music
My heart is full tonight--which means my tear ducts are too!--for several reasons.
First, another year is ending. Which means students moving on out of school and/or out of classes I teach. Geometry is fun. Coaching is fun. Worldview is really fun. But all of that pales for me when compared to connections made with students. I really do love them. (Note: if you've ever considered going into education, I highly recommend it for this reason!)
Second, experience (alright...old age) tells me what some of the obstacles are that my young friends are facing as they move into college and beyond. Obstacles they are not even aware of yet. How I wish I could shelter them just a tad longer from some of the harsh vagaries life will surely offer! But that would stunt growth. Painfully-acquired growth, but growth surely.
Third, my youngest nephew graduates Friday. But I've already written about that in this space.
Fourth, I'll get to hang w/ my brother this weekend. Much fun! And something that doesn't happen nearly often enough.
Fifth, I know this will be a "full-heart" weekend for Mom. Joy and loss all at once.
Sixth, this graduation means that my beloved son is now a senior. Which means, in just one year, he'll be one of the ones graduating. And probably moving out of my house. After I graduated from HS, I never lived @ Mom's again for more than a couple of months here & there when out of college. I am very excited for him. And I hate the thought of his moving out of my house.
I'll go ahead & put everyone on notice. I'm going to be a worthless, wimpy basket case all of this next year. I apologize in advance to all of my macho male friends, because I'm going to embarrass every one of you this next year. I've never been afraid to cry...and I've never faced anything as hard as this will be. Consider yourselves forewarned.
One friend & wife drove their son to college about 5 1/2 hours away. He said that his wife said about two words the entire way back home. Yeah, that'll be me.
It's my strong wish and prayer for all of this year's graduates that God grant each a long and successful, dream-achieving, difference-making, God-entranced life.
Bob Dylan expresses my wish for each HS graduate friend of mine. I'll close with his words because my tear ducts are flowing freely. I have always loved this song. Enjoy!
Forever Young
Bob Dylan
May God bless and keep you always,
May your wishes all come true,
May you always do for others
And let others do for you.
May you build a ladder to the stars
And climb on every rung,
May you stay forever young,
Forever young, forever young,
May you stay forever young.
May you grow up to be righteous,
May you grow up to be true,
May you always know the truth
And see the lights surrounding you.
May you always be courageous,
Stand upright and be strong,
May you stay forever young,
Forever young, forever young,
May you stay forever young.
May your hands always be busy,
May your feet always be swift,
May you have a strong foundation
When the winds of changes shift.
May your heart always be joyful,
May your song always be sung,
May you stay forever young,
Forever young, forever young,
May you stay forever young.
Copyright © 1973 Ram's Horn Music
Saturday, May 14, 2005
on graduations
the beach bum
30 years ago, my brother graduated from high school. And since then, as the Dead sang, "what a long strange trip it's been..."
He went to the U. of Miami on a music scholarship. Majored in applied music, w/ trombone as his main instrument. Did some cool stuff w/ music along the way.
Then, of course, off to Naval Aviation training to fly P3s.
Then, to United Airlines.
Now, to project management near DC.
Along the way, he's lived in Pensacola, FL; Corpus Christi, TX; Topsham, ME; Keflavik, Iceland; Rota, Spain; Montgomery, AL; Vacaville, CA; Waldorff, MD; and now Littlestown, PA.
Been married a couple of times. Wonderfully so, now. A son who's a freshman @ U. of FL. A young daughter.
I mention all of this because next Friday night, his younger son graduates from the same high school. Only our sovereign, all-knowing God knows what's in store for Jerry, my nephew, during the next 30 years.
My prayer is success and integrity, combined with a healthy amount of way-cool fun, all under the heading of an ever-growing faith in the person and work of Christ. Jerry's first 18 have been a challenge at times. May his next ones go as he wishes.
Jerry, bro, know that you're loved much by all of us. Know also that we're proud of you. Know too that we're excited for you as you journey to FSU this fall. And finally, know that I can still take you...what?....we can go right now...*smiles*
I love you, Jerry Scott Madaris. Congrats!
30 years ago, my brother graduated from high school. And since then, as the Dead sang, "what a long strange trip it's been..."
He went to the U. of Miami on a music scholarship. Majored in applied music, w/ trombone as his main instrument. Did some cool stuff w/ music along the way.
Then, of course, off to Naval Aviation training to fly P3s.
Then, to United Airlines.
Now, to project management near DC.
Along the way, he's lived in Pensacola, FL; Corpus Christi, TX; Topsham, ME; Keflavik, Iceland; Rota, Spain; Montgomery, AL; Vacaville, CA; Waldorff, MD; and now Littlestown, PA.
Been married a couple of times. Wonderfully so, now. A son who's a freshman @ U. of FL. A young daughter.
I mention all of this because next Friday night, his younger son graduates from the same high school. Only our sovereign, all-knowing God knows what's in store for Jerry, my nephew, during the next 30 years.
My prayer is success and integrity, combined with a healthy amount of way-cool fun, all under the heading of an ever-growing faith in the person and work of Christ. Jerry's first 18 have been a challenge at times. May his next ones go as he wishes.
Jerry, bro, know that you're loved much by all of us. Know also that we're proud of you. Know too that we're excited for you as you journey to FSU this fall. And finally, know that I can still take you...what?....we can go right now...*smiles*
I love you, Jerry Scott Madaris. Congrats!
Friday, May 06, 2005
some thoughts on prom
the beach bum
So, beach bum, jr. has a date to jr/sr prom tomorrow. The works. Tux--pink vest!--dinner reservations, new shoes picked out w/ Ma beach bum's help, etc. there's even a free t-shirt from the tux rental place, the punchline to which is "Looking sharp in a tux from Floyd's...priceless!"
Some prom observations:
--they're expensive! dinner, tickets, tux, flowers, pictures....
--they're fun! dinner, dance, post-prom parties (he has two lined up)
--most folks only have two in their lifetime
--I hope beach bum, jr. has a wonderful time!
--his date is in one of my classes I teach....yeah...that's slightly awkward...
--mrs. beach bum & I are chaperones...on the late shift....the cleanup shift. Two things I'm very un-good at: staying up late, and cleaning up. But I'm actually looking forward to it.
--one of my students & his date are arriving by boat from across the lake. How cool is that?
Proms are a link from new school to old school. A satisfying link (to me, anyway). Not all traditions are worth keeping, nor celebrating. However, it is equally true that not all traditions are worth denigrating nor jettisoning.
My old self is glad that prom is still a big deal. Here's hoping that it always will be.
BTW, I went both 11th & 12th grade years. With the same girl. In 11th grade, she was my girlfriend. In 12th, we were "still friends." Last I heard, she was the wife of a Methodist pastor out in TX somewhere. I hope she's happy & fulfilled, as she did not get much of that at her house.
One more thing. It seems that students frequently feel the need to bend/break/shatter rules on prom night in ways that they never would otherwise. Here's hoping that none of that happens tomorrow night. Or if it does that no permanent scars are inflicted.
So, beach bum, jr. has a date to jr/sr prom tomorrow. The works. Tux--pink vest!--dinner reservations, new shoes picked out w/ Ma beach bum's help, etc. there's even a free t-shirt from the tux rental place, the punchline to which is "Looking sharp in a tux from Floyd's...priceless!"
Some prom observations:
--they're expensive! dinner, tickets, tux, flowers, pictures....
--they're fun! dinner, dance, post-prom parties (he has two lined up)
--most folks only have two in their lifetime
--I hope beach bum, jr. has a wonderful time!
--his date is in one of my classes I teach....yeah...that's slightly awkward...
--mrs. beach bum & I are chaperones...on the late shift....the cleanup shift. Two things I'm very un-good at: staying up late, and cleaning up. But I'm actually looking forward to it.
--one of my students & his date are arriving by boat from across the lake. How cool is that?
Proms are a link from new school to old school. A satisfying link (to me, anyway). Not all traditions are worth keeping, nor celebrating. However, it is equally true that not all traditions are worth denigrating nor jettisoning.
My old self is glad that prom is still a big deal. Here's hoping that it always will be.
BTW, I went both 11th & 12th grade years. With the same girl. In 11th grade, she was my girlfriend. In 12th, we were "still friends." Last I heard, she was the wife of a Methodist pastor out in TX somewhere. I hope she's happy & fulfilled, as she did not get much of that at her house.
One more thing. It seems that students frequently feel the need to bend/break/shatter rules on prom night in ways that they never would otherwise. Here's hoping that none of that happens tomorrow night. Or if it does that no permanent scars are inflicted.
Thursday, May 05, 2005
Do You Know What It Means to Miss New Orleans?
the beach bum
DO YOU KNOW WHAT IT MEANS TO MISS NEW ORLEANS?
Do you know what it means to miss New Orleans
And miss it each night and day
I know I’m not wrong... this feeling’s gettin’ stronger
The longer I stay away
Miss them moss covered vines...the tall sugar pines
Where mockin’ birds used to sing
And I’d like to see that lazy Mississippi...hurryin’ into spring
Moonlight on the bayou.......a creole tune fills the air
I dream about magnolias in bloom......and I’m wishin’ I was there
Do you know what it means to miss New Orleans
When that’s where you left your heart
And there’s one thing more...I miss the one I care for
More than I miss New Orleans
Moonlight on the bayou.......a creole tune fills the air
I dream about magnolias in bloom......and I’m wishin’ I was there
Do you know what it means to miss New Orleans
When that’s where you left your heart
And there’s one thing more...I miss the one I care for
More.....more than I miss.......New Orleans
(back to beach bum) - A wonderful old song recorded by various people, including N.O. jazz legend Louis Armstrong. The version I have is a duet version by Harry Connick, Jr. & Dr. John. It is awesome! HC's smooth singing & playing; Dr. John's wonderful-though-not-at-all-smooth voice w/ his Hammond B-3 solo. Makes me want to move down to south LA...
BTW, the version I'm speaking of was recorded when Harry Connick, Jr. was all of 20 years old. How cool would it be to record w/ Dr. John when only 2 years out of high school??
One more thing: I saw HC @ Jazz Fest about 10 years ago, and he was awesome! The coolest part was when he sent the band offstage for a break & he just started playing N.O. R&B piano. He soloed for probably 12-15 minutes. By the end, the entire piano was shaking. An all-time concert moment for me. BTW, he did indeed do the song above when I saw him; sadly, Dr. John was not there.
DO YOU KNOW WHAT IT MEANS TO MISS NEW ORLEANS?
Do you know what it means to miss New Orleans
And miss it each night and day
I know I’m not wrong... this feeling’s gettin’ stronger
The longer I stay away
Miss them moss covered vines...the tall sugar pines
Where mockin’ birds used to sing
And I’d like to see that lazy Mississippi...hurryin’ into spring
Moonlight on the bayou.......a creole tune fills the air
I dream about magnolias in bloom......and I’m wishin’ I was there
Do you know what it means to miss New Orleans
When that’s where you left your heart
And there’s one thing more...I miss the one I care for
More than I miss New Orleans
Moonlight on the bayou.......a creole tune fills the air
I dream about magnolias in bloom......and I’m wishin’ I was there
Do you know what it means to miss New Orleans
When that’s where you left your heart
And there’s one thing more...I miss the one I care for
More.....more than I miss.......New Orleans
(back to beach bum) - A wonderful old song recorded by various people, including N.O. jazz legend Louis Armstrong. The version I have is a duet version by Harry Connick, Jr. & Dr. John. It is awesome! HC's smooth singing & playing; Dr. John's wonderful-though-not-at-all-smooth voice w/ his Hammond B-3 solo. Makes me want to move down to south LA...
BTW, the version I'm speaking of was recorded when Harry Connick, Jr. was all of 20 years old. How cool would it be to record w/ Dr. John when only 2 years out of high school??
One more thing: I saw HC @ Jazz Fest about 10 years ago, and he was awesome! The coolest part was when he sent the band offstage for a break & he just started playing N.O. R&B piano. He soloed for probably 12-15 minutes. By the end, the entire piano was shaking. An all-time concert moment for me. BTW, he did indeed do the song above when I saw him; sadly, Dr. John was not there.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
