Here is the church, Here is the steeple...

This past Sunday, our church celebrated the 10th year of its existence. The service was spectacular. In fact, it is the best church service I ever remember. The staff did a tremendous job in planning different ways to share and display how lives have been changed. While it was a long service I never once wanted it to be over.

Towards the beginning of the service there was a short slide show that chronicled the history of this congregation. A local radio host who used to be a member before moving too far away provided the voice over, and this slide show was also professionally done. The part of the entire service that moved me the most was when the slide show moderator mentioned that right about the time the existing building was completed the church was asked a question: If the church closed its doors, would anyone in the community besides the members, notice. The life of the church was shaped forever at that point. The congregation determined to truly minister and reach out to the community. The rest, as they say, is history.

Is that not the question all churches should ask? How many congregations would be afraid to ask such a question simply because they are afraid of the answer? What would be the result and what would change if every church truly asked the question, and then were not afraid of the answer?

It is my opinion that this is the question that MUST be asked. We as Christians, and our churches, must not be afraid to ask and answer this honestly. We may argue with the answer, and not like the answer, yet that will not prevent the answer from being correct.

Is this not the purpose of the church to reach out to the community? Local congregations are not simply to be a safe haven for members, although that is a role. Churches are to be a place of healing and ministry. We cannot pick and choose our targets for ministry. We cannot decide we will only minister to certain people in certain socioeconomic conditions. We must minister. If we follow the example of Jesus we will reach out to anyone and everyone. If we follow His example then there is not a sole that is off limits. No one is too far gone or too bad to attempt to reach.

Does your church need to ask this question? If you do ask, be careful. You might not like the answer. The answer may cause change. We all love change, right?

The essence of ministry is reaching people where they are. If every church would do that, the world would be a much different place. And then that would be Change I can Believe in! (I know that is grammatically incorrect. Oh well.)

Liar, Liar pants on fire...

So we all have heard about Representative Joe Wilson from South Carolina who shouted out that President Obama was lying last week during an address to Congress. First, let me say that I do not think this was in good taste, and frankly was in very poor taste. What I find remarkable, yet predictable, is the reaction from his peers and the media.

Rep. Wilson has been called everything but a Child of God. The favorite of many in the media, and many Obama supporters is that he is a racist. None other than former President Jimmy Carter has stated that Wilson's behavior is rooted in racism. The Congressional Black Caucas, has condemned his outburst and accused him directly of racism. Racism? An accusation against a white man of racism by an organization called the Congressional Black Caucus? Really? Any day now I am sure the Congressional Caucasian Caucus will back him. I won't hold my breath.

Any time a white person disagrees with someone of a different race we are accused of being a racist. I checked on Merriam-Webster online. The definition of racism is not that one person disagrees with another person of a different race. The definition given is:
1 : a belief that race is the primary determinant of human traits and capacities and that racial differences produce an inherent superiority of a particular race
2 : racial prejudice or discrimination

So I ask, how was Mr. Wilson guilty of racial prejudice or how was he guilty of showing that he was convinced that his race is inherently better than the race of the president (who has a bit of Caucasian in him if I remember correctly)?

This is a great ploy used by those on the liberal side in our country. Once accused of racism, you really cannot do anything to get that reputation to disappear. This is quite similar to being accused of abuse of a child. That will ruin your reputation and life quickly. While both may not be true, and both could be complete fabrications, that does not mean simply because you dispute it and may have some proof to support you that all will be cleared up. Oh no. You must apologize many multiple of times, even to those you have have never met. You must find ways to make amends and many times, if you are a political conservative, the outrage eventually leads to your ouster from office or loss of your job.

Now those on the liberal side can say anything. They can accuse a president of lying, or misleading, of being disingenuous, or leading the country down a path to certain destruction. You can say anything you want. You can hide many thousands of dollars in your freezer (see Jefferson, William). You can "forget" to report large amounts of income yet get off without penalty. Oh, and you are in charge of the House Ways and Means Committee which writes legislation related to taxes and other money related issues (see Rangel, Charlie). You can be the mayor of Washington D.C., get caught using crack cocaine in a sting, yet accuse everyone involved of racism (see Barry, Marion). And lest I be accused of racism because none of those is white, you can even kill a woman. That is right, you can actually kill someone and get away with it (see Kennedy, Edward). Liberals are not forced to apologize when they call conservatives liars or worse. Liberals are not forced to resign from office when they break ethics rules and regulations. Liberals can pretty much do whatever they please.

Unless you listen to a conservative news source (Rush Limbaugh, Sean Hannity, Neal Boortz, etc.) you will hear very little about this. How much do any of us know about Democrat malfeasance simply by watching the news like our parents did on ABC World News Tonight or a source like that?

It is time we hold the media's feet to the fire. We should expect honest reporting. How can we expect honesty from news sources when they endorse candidates? That should stop now. Yet more than the media, we should expect decorum, honesty and responsibility from our "representatives" in Washington.

When will we stand up to politicians that look at many thousands of protestors and say, "This does not represent main stream America"? Emanuel, Rahm said that one.

When will we make sure our voices are heard and adhered to? How stupid do they think we are? President Obama stated in his address that this health care plan would not increase our debt at all. He said we would eliminate waste from Medicare and Medicaid. Well if we know there is waste, why wait, why not eliminate it now? That is just stupid. In addition, we have tons of debt. So we are going to add a new program, we have no money, how are we going to pay for it? Are we going to set up lemonade stands?

At the dentist office yesterday, I heard two ladies discussing the health care plan. One said to another, "I think it is great that the government will provide this for us. And we won't have to pay anything." I could not resist. I asked her, "Where will the money come from to pay for this program?" She said, " The government." I asked her what good or service was the government going to start selling so they had revenue to pay for it. She looked at me in much the same as a possum looks at a car right before meeting the tires. I then asked her how efficient she thinks our government is with our money. She had a predictable response, which was, "Not very." And then I asked her the magic question: "Do you really want our inefficient government playing with your health and even more of your money?" This time she resembled a brook trout. After a brief silence, they called me back. Where my insurance will pay for some of my crown and then I will pay for the rest. At a dentist of my choosing. Not one chosen for me.

I am not saying the president is a liar. I have not read the bill or his plan, and we will have to simply rely on others to tell us what is there. What I will say is that the plan the President wants does not matter. What matters is what is passed by Congress. So on that the President has not been completely honest.

If you are not completely honest that means you are not telling the whole truth. That equates to lying.

I better be careful. I might be accused of being a racist.

Miss Manners would not be happy...

Recently, I witnessed something very disturbing. I saw 2 teenagers chewing their food, mouth wide open with each bite. These kids were at least aged 15 and should know better. I could hear them smacking their food over the sounds of the amusement park around us.

It would be easy to write this off to just some clueless teenagers. The problem is you can see this everywhere. Kids and then adults of all ages chew food with their mouth open. What is worse is the way people smack gum. We can often hear people smacking their gum in all kinds of situations. This past Sunday, I sat next to someone in church smacking away. To make matters worse, she popped a bubble. In church! I do not think there is anything dumber looking than seeing someone chewing gum like a cow chews its cud.

It is not just eating where we can see manners lacking. This past summer I was attending a large group session at the conference center where I work. I ended up holding the door open for about 700 people. Of that number, 1 said "thank you." This little girl about 10 years old was the only one to express any type of gratitude. Adults, teenagers and other younger children walked through the door, yet no one else said "thank you." In fact most of the adults would not even look me in the eye.

This past Friday night, I attended a high school football game. The public address announcer frequently read a statement saying that this was a tobacco free campus. In addition, there were signs around making the same statement. That did not stop several folks from smoking. And apparently smokeless tobacco is not actually tobacco. At least at that school.

What I think we are seeing is that our society cares less and less for any type of traditional social norms and doing what is right. Just look around and we can see a lack of respect for anyone in authority. I do not mean we should never question authority or that we should obey blindly. We should show those in leadership positions respect. And we should show our fellow people respect. There are too many who simply leave their shopping carts in the middle of the parking lot and too many that throw their cigarettes out on the street. Too often, we are simply rude. I wonder why? Why have we slipped so far in regards to showing simple respect to others?

I think if we showed caring and respect for others, imagine how the world would change. That would be change I could believe in.

Camp changes lives.

Today we picked up my son from two weeks of summer camp. For two weeks he got to spend time with other boys, doing things boys like to do. I am convinced we have never made a better investment.

About two weeks ago, we dropped our oldest off at camp. This camp has been around since 1929, and is under the same corporate umbrella as the conference center where I work. I know the folks that run this place and trust them completely. These guys know camp, love camp and live camp. Their commitment is to make camp a safe, but adventurous place, where boys can be boys, skills learned, relationships developed, fun can be had and each camper can go away having strengthened their relationship with God.

I am a firm believer in camp. As a child and teenager I never attended traditional summer camp. I went to soccer camp and then church camp, but never had the privilege of going to a traditional summer camp with canoeing, archery, camp outs, bonfires and other basics from most camp programs. While in college, I worked at a boys' camp that had many of these elements and I saw the "power" of camp. Take people away from every day distractions, put them in a position where they do new or different activities, provide them with a staff of energetic and young staff members, and great things can happen.

While sitting in the closing ceremony at Camp Ridgecrest for Boys today, I was reminded of how fantastic camp can be. Sure there are silly songs, some facilities are rustic and there is often the obligatory crying at the end. The staff led a song that has been used since the 1930s at Ridgecrest. Each tribe did their own cheer/chant and song. Which to be honest, the staff seemed to enjoy more than the campers! There was a presentation of some campers that had achieved the top rank possible as a camper, which is a source of great pride. The part I was most impressed with was the mention of the alumni.

The alumni raised enough money to build a chapel a few years ago. Many of these alumni had kids attending this week and took part in some of the festivities. There are families where 3 or 4 generations have attended Ridgecrest. The camp leadership values these former staff members, and treasures the relationship between alumni and camp. These guys want their sons to have the same experience they have enjoyed in the past. It is my opinion this is the way all camps should treat their alumni. Not all camps have this same type of relationship and that is a shame.

I do not have as much contact with the folks from Crestridge camp for Girls, yet I do know they run a similar program. While not quite as old, they have a tremendous tradition and program. And their alumni program is just as strong!

In these days, when our kids are more and more sedentary, we need to look for ways to get them outside. We can't just let them ride their bikes all over the place and we need to keep an eye on them. It is my opinion that is another reason camp is so important. I would encourage anyone to find a good, quality traditional camp and watch the joy of camping through the eyes of their child. You won't be sorry!



http://www.ridgecrestcamps.com/boys/index.shtml

Like he cares...

Anyone who knows me, is well aware that I am a huge college football fan. I follow the season closely, yet feel the way a champion is decided is a farce. While I fully believe the system needs to be changed, I do not support the idea that our government should be investigating the BCS. I have attached an open letter I sent to Senator Hatch from Utah, who seems to be spearheading this ridiculous "investigation" into our current system. Feel free to send him one as well. I have attached his contact information here as well. Remember, be courteous!
http://hatch.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?FuseAction=Offices.Home


"Dear Senator Hatch,

I recognize you are not one of the senators that represents my state. Regardless, I feel compelled to request why exactly you insist upon investigating the BCS? In this day and age, when our nation is faced with so many challenges, do you honestly believe this is an issue that deserves oversight from our federal representatives and senators?

Any college football fan will agree that the lesser known conferences have less pull and influence on the sports world. All a team needs to do is win. Follow the model Florida State used in the late 70s and 80s, play anybody anywhere, win more than lose and you will be recognized. That is the way to build a new football power.

I implore you to drop this investigation. I know your constituents may encourage you, however they must surely realize this issue is not nearly as important as many of the other challenges facing this great country that could use your attention.

Thank you for your time."

I have no illusions that this letter will make one little bit of difference, yet I sure feel better. At least my voice was expressed, if not heard.

Now on to the rest of my day. Next maybe I will petition God to stop the Earth from spinning. This is just as likely as

Because I'm bad...

As everyone knows, recently we have recently lost some celebrities. Farrah Fawcett, Ed McMahon, and of course Michael Jackson. While it is sad for their families, does it really have an impact on our lives? I can understand a simple mention that someone died, yet what I don't understand is the infatuation many seem to have with these people.

I wonder if so much attention has been given to MJ's death because that many care, or because the media thinks we care, the media thinks we should care or simply because the media cares. I cannot fathom getting upset about the death of someone with whom I had no connection. Why are so many upset? Is it simply because they see this celebrity die, and it brings some attention to their own mortality?

Remember when Princess Diana died? I remember people around me being distraught. I could never understand it. It was sad for her kids. It was sad for the citizens of Great Britain. However I am not one of her kids, and I am not from Great Britain. Someone I knew really well asked me at the time if I was upset, and I responded with a simple, "No, why would I be." She got emotional and told me I was insensitive. Well I know that.

Michael Jackson was incredibly talented. He could sure dance and sing. For much of my formative years, he was THE entertainer. The Thriller song and video were awesome and there was great anticipation on each new release from him. While I liked his music, I never knew him. I knew he was in the Jackson 5 previously, and I knew he was from a big family. I never met him, and have never had a desire to attend his concerts or really cared anything about him.

We all know the more recent stories about him and there is no need to rehash them here. I have no idea what he is guilty of, except extremely poor judgment. So many "stars" suffer from the same affliction, yet it never should have any effect on the lives of us "normal" people. If for no other reason, this lack of judgement is a reason to not hold celebrities in such high esteem. They are normal people, with normal problems, however their problems seem to make the news.

I won't watch the memorial service. I don't really care about what happens to his estate. I do have a concern that his kids will be tortured by the same media that seems to promote the worship of these celebrities. I won't lose any sleep about the way he died, or how much he was worth, or if there are any secret songs locked away in some vault that can be released. In death, just as in life, MJ will have no bearing on my life. We, western culture, need to worry more about us and less about famous folks. This is insensitive. This is heartless. This is the way I feel.

So, instead of wasting a couple of hours of my life watching some pretty famous entertainers on TV memorialize someone I never knew, I will work on me. I'm starting with the man in the mirror.

Couldn't resist.

Home renovation

I have heard it said that one of the most stressful times in a marriage is when a couple decides to build a house together. We have never done that, but we are currently in a home renovation. Our projects are:

1. Remove the wall between our dining area and den

2. New carpet

3. Central heat and air

Our house is a little over 30 years old. Every room has the original carpet except the den. I call the color of the carpet "Pentecostal Gold." I don't think that is an official Crayola color, but it should be. While we wanted to change the carpet, we ended up doing a major renovation. The idea with taking out the wall is to make a bigger living space. The openness will do several things, not the least is to add more value to our home. So the wall was the first step.

The wall's last moments.

Home renovation: The game the whole family can play!

In a matter of minutes the sheet rock was down.

After the beam was in the ceiling.

Before the carpet guys could do their job, we had to get the small things from our rooms out of the way. In case we need anything, it is probably located in the sun room.

So now we are waiting for the carpet guys to come and finish. Then next week, the heating and air is going to be done. Thank goodness for my father-in-law who has done a lot of this labor for free. Then of course, Amy handles the painting and some other details. I just do what I am told. More updates, coming soon!

Here we go...

Well, here we are. The beginning of the summer. My days are crazy. So much to do, so many items that need attention. Each late spring and summer sees thousands of folks come through my place of employment and that is when we are tested. Each week hundreds, sometimes a couple of thousand, adults, children and teenagers come through Ridgecrest. We try to make them all happy, with each age group providing its own set of challenges.

As recreation manager, this time of year I get busy. There are many demands on our space, and I am charged with juggling who gets fields or volleyball courts or gym space and when they get it. Different events require different amounts of space and meeting planners often "forget" to request recreation space until the last minute. So schedules and calendars are often just recommendations and not set in stone.

While I have the ultimate responsibility for this area, this job could not be done without the assistance of summer staff. These folks have given of themselves for the summer. We start in mid-May and do not end until mid-August. Mostly, these guys and girls are college aged, and get a relatively low salary for all they do. They demonstrate the true meaning of what "servant" means. These folks work in the rain, heat, mornings, evenings, and whenever our guests need. They provide snacks, sports tournaments, facilitate laser tag and high ropes and have to put up with me. That last part alone proves they are true saints. And while I cherish the opportunity to invest in their lives, they probably sometimes wish I would "invest" a little less.

So, if you will, occasionally offer up some prayers for: Brandon, Jim, Ian, Brittany, Rebekah, Sarah, Jeremy and Jonathan. They could sure use it.

And if you are in the area, come by and let us treat you to a Cheerwine slushie.

Have we lost our minds?

The western world seems to have gone crazy. Any kind of wholesome values and even the basics of common sense are no longer apparent. Here are a few examples:

• We all probably remember the horrible massacre in Binghamton, New York on April 3. During the event, an adjacent building was locked down for four hours preventing the 370 workers from leaving for any reason. James Kauchis, an employee in the building, has filed a formal complaint seeking compensation for missing his lunch break. Thirteen people were killed, four others were wounded, but all this guy cares about is his lunch break. During the four hour lock down, pizza and beverages were brought in by department heads, however apparently this was not good enough. Anyone surprised this guy is a member of his union?

• Tom Tancredo, former Colorado Republican Representative, was forced to end a speech early on the campus of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Protesters shouted profanities and accusations of racism during Tancredo's introduction and once Tancredo began to speak. Police had to remove several demonstrators from the room, and then sprayed pepper spray to disperse those in the hallway trying to enter the overcrowded room. The protesters gathered outside the classroom and one fine young man broke the classroom window. In a statement that probably makes his parents so proud, UNC graduate student Tyler Oakley, who had organized the protest, said, "He was not able to practice his hate speech." "You have to respect the right of people to assemble and collectively speak." So, you want people to have the right to speak, yet only some people apparently. Now that is logic for you. By the way, the speech was about illegal immigrants getting in-state tuition rates for state colleges. Illegal immigrants, law breakers, get the privileges of law abiding citizens. Sounds peachy.
  

• In Quebec, a girl sued her father for grounding her, and was victorious. The girl was discovered surfing websites he had forbidden and was posting inappropriate pictures of herself online. Her father told her she would not be allowed to go on her class graduation trip. The girl then contacted a legal-aid lawyer who took the case. A court ruled in favor of the girl.

• Here we are in a recession, and lawmakers asked for nearly $200 billion in "pork-barrel projects" in 2009. Both parties get involved in this. The first and third place respectively were Senators Thad Cochran and Roger Wicker, both Republicans. Harry Reid, Senator from Nevada gave this wonderful explanation: we have always had earmarks, so we should have them now as well. Well, we have always had people living in poverty so I guess we should do nothing to help them. Same irrational logic!

Our politicians have gone over board. Our populace is as well. One reason our "leaders" think they can get away with this is because they know Americans are more concerned with who wins American Idol or what kind of dog is living in the White House than in what is happening around them.

What will it take to make a change? We must hold our representatives accountable for their behavior. Write letters and emails. Organize rallies. We must make our voice heard. The squeaky wheel gets the grease. Normally, the fringe members of any group are the only ones heard. If we make our opinions known, things will change. If things do not change, vote out those who do not listen. Get rid of dead weight in Washington and in your state capital. Run for office or work on a campaign. Whatever you do, advocate common sense and the following of the Constitution.

I am afraid if we do not do something America will be lost. Maybe not in name, but certainly in principal. Who's with me?

It's not you, it's me...

There are ways to break off a relationship that are open and honest, and then there are absolute lies that both parties recognize as complete fabrications. One of those is to say this simple phrase, "It's not you, it's me." The person breaking up is trying to let the rejected party down easy. This approach is designed to not destroy the self esteem of the "victim." And it is crap.

Today we heard about the automobile industry from President Obama, and we heard about his plan to save General Motors. Among other things, the CEO was asked (ordered) to step down. Most likely Mr. Rick Wagoner was informed he would be allowed to resign, or he would be fired. The result would be the same of course, just the resume would look different. Fired looks much worse than resigned when applying for a new position.

Call me cynical, but this announcement came right before the President said, "Let me be clear: The United States government has no interest in running GM; we have no intention in running GM." Now I don't know much, but I do know that giving someone the order to terminate their employment sounds like you might be trying to run things. Just saying.

In his news conference, President Obama said, "This is not meant as a criticism of Mr. Wagoner, who has devoted his life to this company; rather it's a recognition that it will take a new vision and new direction to create the GM of the future."

So let me get this straight, you want me out but I really did not do much wrong? Sound like a line of garbage to you? I don't think it passes the smell test.

On January 2, 2001, I went to work expecting a normal day. A few hours later I was home and no longer employed. My boss decided he wanted to move in a different direction and did not feel I had the skills to perform the new duties he wanted someone in my position to have. That was his prerogative, he was the boss. As I look back, I agree with him and he did me a favor. I began to recognize and work on some things that would prepare me for such a position in the future. Certainly, I was not happy, yet never was I bitter. Essentially what he told me was it was not me, it was him and the organization as a whole would be better if someone with a different skill set was in my position. I knew my boss was a man of integrity and I believed he was serious.

Back to today: I don't know Mr. Wagoner at all. He could be a despicable human being and maybe he deserves swift and harsh punishment for poor management at GM. He could be a good man, caught up in a position in which he could not be truly successful. Union contracts and government intervention may have created a situation where Rick Wagoner was destined to fail.
Most likely, the truth lies somewhere in the middle.

What I do know is when Mr. Obama said no criticism was meant of Mr. Wagoner, that is a load of crap. This was said at the same time Obama said he did not want to run GM, yet we are firing the CEO. Other changes include new members on its board. So we don't want to run General Motors, but we are going to run GM. That is the same as when someone says, "I don't want to say anything bad about that person, but..."

We have all heard things in our past that just don't add up. This speech from the President today is certainly one that does not add up.

Mr. President, I am having a difficult time believing much of what you say and agreeing with your policies. But don't worry, it's not you, it's me!

Driving and Crying

Like many areas, this county where I live has a few quirks. Many of the people are nice, there are a million churches, it seems everyone has a truck, and I think it is against the law to own an acre and not have at least one abandoned vehicle in your front yard.

The most irritating quirk is the way many of the residents of this quaint mountain county drive. Many of the residents seem to think turn signals were options not included on their specific vehicle. Young or old, regardless of the condition of the car (or truck), the vast majority of drivers simply do not use their turn signal. Now I recognize that some may have a signal that does not work or a turn light could be out. That said, there is absolutely no way this many folks can have trouble with their turn signals all at the same time. What I don't know for sure, but suspect, is drivers that do not signal are in a couple of camps.

• Everybody knows where I live so I don't need to use a signal
• I just got distracted and forgot to turn the signal on
  
• I don't care what the law is, I ain't goin' to use that @#$% signal 'cause I pay taxes, I pay the salary of the PO-lice and if'n they pull me over I aim to remind 'em of that

Now of course I don't know this for sure, and this a great assumption on my part. I figure the first one is the most common. Many folks have lived in the same area for years and years. So they probably think everyone knows they are going to turn. What I would not doubt is that a large percentage of drivers in this county have that third reason in mind. These same folks throw the cellophane from their cigarettes out on the road and refuse to buckle their seat belts. Laws and rules are for others, not them. The second reason is probably the least common, yet most understandable. It is easy to get distracted while talking on your phone, lighting a cigarette, yelling at one of the kids, getting the dog out of the way so you can see and throwing your beer can into the bed of the truck as you drive. Who wouldn't be distracted?

The other type of driver that bothers me is the "Sunday Driver." My parents referred to these drivers when I was a kid. These were the kinds of drivers who often took a drive on Sunday after church. They were in no hurry and had no particular place to go. It seems like a large number of drivers in this area have no concept of "speed limit." I know and understand that the speed limit is supposed to be the maximum speed that can be safely driven on a specific stretch of road. All I am asking is that they approach the speed limit. I mean, like come somewhat close to it. Do you know how infuriating it is to travel 15 miles below the speed limit on a 2 lane road? When you see a line of 37 cars behind you, you probably need to either speed up or get off the road!!! Highway 70 is one of the main arteries for transportation in our area. I understand a loaded 18 wheeler or dump truck or school bus traveling slowly, or when there is poor weather. That makes sense. What does not make sense is a perfectly sunny day, when a driver will decide to mandate the speed everyone else can drive by traveling along at 35 mph in a 55 mph zone in their 1990 Ford Aerostar. Or maybe that does make sense.

The last type of driver I cannot fathom is those on a "Liquor Cycle." For those not from this area, this is a person who normally has lost their license, often from something along the lines of D.U.I., that drives on the main roads on a motorized scooter. Now you might think that losing a license should prevent someone from driving. Not in North Carolina! As long as you are the legal age to drive the scooter, you can drive one. No license is required! At least these folks are trying to get to and from work, however they drive on the main roads, and even when they pull a little closer to the shoulder they still block the road. These scooters don't go very fast. The line of cars stretches miles behind the scooter. But at least they wear a helmet for when those in real automobiles get up real close and knock them into a ditch.

As I said, this area has some positives. The driving is certainly not one of them. And I am certainly glad no one can ever complain about my driving! I learned to drive in Atlanta. If you ain't bumping and drafting you ain't trying.

So while I appreciate the slower pace of the area, I do not like the driving skills exhibited here. Maybe I should open a driving school. Anybody have a car with break pedals on both sides?

And away she goes...

Oh the concentration!

This past Sunday saw a big event in our family. Our little 5 year old girl, Lauren, learned to ride her bike without training wheels. We tried this about a year ago, but she just could not quite get it. This time, off she went and never looked back.

She jumped on, and off she went. Of course there were some tough moments. She had a difficult time learning to turn. Mail boxes, trees, bushes, the occasional parked car all presented challenges-and at times targets. With a little steadying from Dad, and a little encouragement from Amy and Andrew, she got it. Each day since she has ridden more to practice and the improvement is drastic.

Think back to when you were a child. When we start school, we think we have arrived. We think we are finally a "big kid." That said, the biggest moment of our childhood is when the training wheels come off. When we ride with training wheels everyone on the street can hear us coming. There is no way to sneak up on anyone. Those things are loud. The removal of the training wheels opens up a new world. We can ride quietly, can go over hills and through fields. We can learn to do wheelies, jumps, and occasionally win a race. We can feel the wind and experience true freedom.

Inevitably, we fall. Tonight Lauren got a little ambitious. She went up the only hill on our street. Coming down, she got a little wobbly and experienced a crash. Now she has a little "road rash." We think she will live. She is doubtful about that. We know she is tough and will get back on the bike, learn her lesson (hopefully) and ride better next time. Riding a bike is a reflection of life. We learn, fall, get back on and get better. We ride faster, slower, more daring, wreck, but do better next time.

I saw something else when she rode off: I saw the future. Someday, all too soon, she won't want her dad to steady her. She will go off to high school, college and the rest of her life. She is the perfect age right now-full of wonder and zest for life. Lauren is a good girl, smart and frequently laughing. She never meets a stranger and is full of confidence.

My little girl is growing up. I won't be one of those hovering helicopter parents. Those folks really are doing no good for their children. I want my kids to know I am there for them, yet I refuse to be the over protective nightmares we hear about in the news. Just because she is growing up does not mean I have to like it. Sometimes I lay awake at night wondering what will happen with my kids. I am so proud of each of them. They truly are a blessing.

Someday Lauren may look back at this post and be embarrassed. I won't apologize for telling her how proud I am of her. All too soon she will be gone. I want her to have the confidence to face the world and make her place. I just want her to know I will always be willing to steady when she wants it.

Really, there is something in my eye.

Look at her go!

Race Day

On Valentine's Day, Feb. 14, 2009, our family went out to the Black Mountain Valentine's Day 5K. I, Ed, ran the 5K with a couple of guys from our neighborhood. Andrew, the 8 year old, ran the 1 mile fun run. Amy and Lauren went to cheer us on.

Ed Barnes gets a kiss from his daughter, Lauren, before the start of the 10th annual Black Mountain Valentine's Day 5K Saturday afternoon. (2/14/09 Erin Brethauer
from the Asheville Citizen-Times

Let me start by giving a brief description of the setting: Black Mountain is a small town about 15 miles east of Asheville. It is a nice community, and many of the residents enjoy outdoor activities. For a small town run like this, you expect somewhere between 100-200 participants. These folks will come in all shapes and sizes, all fitness levels, and with many different goals and objectives. The times ranged between 15:30 and 50:32 for the 3.1 miles. The route went through a residential area, down a green way trail, on another portion of the green way trail system by the Swannanoa River then back on the original trail back to the finish area.

People participate in events like this for all kinds of reasons. Some are in really good shape and are trying to win a prize. Some, and this includes me, want to test ourselves and see where we are fitness and time wise. Some have decided to do something about their fitness/weight and this event has been a goal for a while and they are determined to finish. I have a lot of respect for those people. They are normally still out of shape, yet they are trying hard and seeing results. My only complaint is often they either start out too fast and lose steam quickly or they position themselves too close to the front and get in the way at the start.

These races usually work the same way. One group starts fast and leaves everyone else behind. This race was no different. The rest of us just plod along trying to push ourselves. I don't race very often so pacing can be difficult. You know a race usually brings some "race day magic" as my friend and running partner Greg Hughes says. This means the race will help you run a bit faster than usual. You don't have the same boredom of day after day, running the same routes with the same people. You have new challenges. Several times yesterday I focused on someone off in the distance and kept working to reel them in. Every time it worked.

The last two people I focused on I passed in the last tenth of a mile. We turned towards the finish line and had a short distance to go. I passed these two men and held them off at the line. When I checked the race results I was so proud to see the last two guys I passed were 55 and 77 years old. This has a way of humbling you.





While I am proud of my results, my son really impressed me. When he told me he wanted to do the fun run, I made him go outside with me and run. He completed 1.2 miles that day and went very slowly doing it. However he did do it, so I signed him up. A couple of times prior to the race he either did a half mile or a full mile on the treadmill, so I knew he could do it. What I was concerned about was pacing. Adults have trouble with this issue and I figured the kids would as well.

Andrew at the start

At the start, several kids took off, sprinting off down the trail. I had coached Andrew to start off slowly, be patient and be ready to speed up at the end. I ran with him, and kept encouraging him. We ran down the half mile, passing a few kids along the way, and also being passed by a few. As we passed the turn around, I began preparing him for the big hill. The one hill on the course is tough for me, I can only imagine what it is like for an 8 year old. He shortened his stride, pumped his arms, gritted his teeth and climbed it like a champ. Then all those kids that passed him before were walking. He slowed a tad, caught his breath and continued churning away. I asked him if he thought he could catch one boy ahead of him. He answered with a small burst of speed and lengthened his stride. Once that kid was passed, Andrew set his sights on a girl that passed him at the start. She was walking as well, and down she went. At that point we could see the finish line.

Andrew finished strong. He was a bit tired, but extremely proud. His time was 10:05. My 8 year old did a 10 minute mile, and never stopped running. I am biased, but I think this is pretty awesome. He has expressed interest in continuing with running and doing some more fun runs. The medal he got may have something to do with that, yet in this time when more and more people are struggling with fitness, I don't care what his reasons are.

We may have more of these types of experiences in the future. Lauren now says she wants to do a fun run as well. So, we may have a couple of fitness hounds on our hands. Maybe they will keep up this enthusiasm and that can only help them in the future.

Let's hope they don't struggle with their weight the way I struggle with mine!

Andrew after his first mile fun run and Chet after his first 5k.

Valentine's Day.

Let me start by saying this: I do not need a special day to tell my wife, "I love you." I should be telling her that every day. Period and end of story.

That said, I recognize that not all men are as incredibly wonderful and thoughtful as I am. Please, hold your applause. And laughter. Seriously though, I do not forget birthdays, anniversaries, the flower that was in our wedding (Stargazer Lilly), our china pattern (Lennox Urban Lights) or other important items. (I asked her to marry me on July 22, 1993. That kind of stuff.)

The problem many men have with Valentine's Day is we are expected to buy something special for someone special in our life. In addition, we are expected to be creative. Chocolate and flowers is not creative. Jewelry is not practical. We just had Christmas! The economy is in the tank. Yet we are expected to spend a ton of money on either flowers that will die, chocolates that will be eaten, jewelry we cannot afford or some creative and exotic vacation get away.

Now I will say, my wife is just not that way. She is practical and understands where we are in life, and she knows that I love her. I actually believe her. Maybe it is all a trap, yet I do believe her.

Let me say, if you are going to buy chocolate, make it good. For the last few years, there have been some commercials from Russel Stover candy where the men say they have to bring home chocolate, and the red heart box is a must. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=su4dkqznVTg&feature=related

I am not attacking Russel Stover. I am sure they are fine people. However if you are going to give something to say, "I love you" you may want to choose something of higher quality than a red heart box of chocolate that was produced about 18 months ago. You may as well give M&Ms. The quality is just not there. I will allow that all chocolate probably tastes decent. Some is certainly better. There could be a good reason to give the cheap stuff. You may be a teenager and just don't know better. There could be some traditional reason-like you give it every year since you first became a couple and it brings back warm and fuzzy feelings. Or perhaps her taste buds were removed in a horrible flag pole dare incident back in elementary school.

Many grocery stores have a candy section with a good selection of fine chocolates. There is this fancy thing called the internet where you can find almost anything and can certainly order some nice chocolate. There are many opti0ns.

Or you could just take her to dinner, look deeply into her eyes, let her order what she wants, listen to what she says, open the door for her and spend some quality time together. That is better than any chocolate any day. At least that is what they tell us on Oprah. Not that any self respecting man watches that stuff.

Good luck.

Unions are really great!!!!

While we fuss and fret over a "stimulus" package that our leaders in Washington are dangling to save the free world, other business is occurring. President Obama has issued an executive order requiring union labor for all large-scale federal construction projects. This order restores a rule the Clinton administration created, and was rescinded during the latest Bush administration.

According to the Associated Press, the order requires federal agencies to have all contractors negotiate with union officials, recognize union wages and abide by all collective bargaining agreements.

By most accounts, when unions are involved, construction costs increase between 10 and 20 percent. Apparently there are 84% of American construction workers who have not joined a labor union. So this means those workers are discriminated against.

Why is all of this happening? Is this the Hope and Change Obama's supporters wanted? By the way this is the 4th union friendly executive order signed since Obama took office. He has only been there since January 20!!! Why on this rapidly warming Earth is Obama so interested in union happenings that he has already helped them with 4 executive orders?

In case anyone does not know, to rise to the office of president, a person requires a whole lot of help from a whole lot of sources. I don't know when it began, but Democrats for a number of years have been tied to unions. Remember all the campaign promises about Hope and Change? We were told we would not see politics like we have seen in the past. There would be a break from the types of allegiances and alliances we have observed from Washington D.C. politicians from the past. We need not pretend that Obama is above all this. Are we surprised our current president is tied to unions? Well of course he is. He came from Chicago. For years and years to be successful in politics in Chicago you need to have ties to big labor.

The party that brought you Change and Hope will discriminate against 84% of construction workers in this country. The party that tells you they are working for you will block a large number of hard working Americans from earning a living. This party is going to take the taxes we pay, and reward it to unions. Unions, throughout the years, have used intimidation and fear to get their way. Certainly they did some good in the past, yet we only need look at the American auto industry to see how a union can destroy.

Hope and Change indeed.

Stimulus Plan. Really?

Our politicians are at it again. The same folks who helped us get into the current financial mess are going to get us out. At least that is what they say. We have no money. That is what a deficit is. Spending more than you have. Which means we are borrowing more and more, and the deficit increases. We used up all the Social Security we could borrow from when Clinton was in office, that is how we had a "balanced budget." Then Bush II spent and spent and spent, including money we did not have. Now we have Obama. Surely he will learn from the mistakes of his predecessors and put a stop to frivolous spending projects.

So we have this stimulus package presented by the House. In my opinion, one of the main reasons we have this problem is from ridiculous additions to bills. This current package has funds included for neighborhood stabilization activities, dollars targeted for the National Endowment of the Arts, money to fight Sexually Transmitted Disease, a line item for preventing cigarette smoking, and other non-essential programs will be given aid as well. What happened to fiscal responsibility? That was one of the hallmarks of the Obama campaign. Where has that gone?

The Republicans currently are against this plan. Let's not let them fool us. The only reason they are against this is because the Democrats are in power. They make the same horrible mistakes when they are in control. Why do we let these people continue to make these mistakes? Why do the American people sit by and let these "leaders" and "representatives" continue to spend us into oblivion? Why do we think they can make better decisions this year than last?

In case you do not pay attention, when a politician says he/she brought a certain amount of money into their district, they mean they placed a line item to a bill and it was decided that tax money was better spent going to his/her district. If the good people of Alaska want a statue, they should pay for it, not me. In North Carolina, we received some federal funds for a tea pot museum. So, thanks to all corners of the country. See how ridiculous that is?

We must hold the politicians accountable for their decisions. While I do not think it is the government's responsibility to create jobs, if they say they are going to do that they cannot spend the funds allotted to stop STDs or purchase art.

Just one opinion.

Hope and change......?

So the big change happened. We have a new president. The news has been all over this. I cannot ever remember an inauguration that has received such coverage. Seems like the media is forcing this all down our throats, like we did not realize this was coming.

My personal opinion is we should just give the new administration a chance. Those that supported him need to recognize he is not a supreme being. Those that did not support him need to realize he is not the personification of evil. He is a man, pure and simple. I am appalled by those that seem to take part in hero worship with this man, or any other. I have heard comments such as, "Now all my problems are over" and "I have waited a long time for this man. My life is now complete." Now if you are a minority, I can understand. If you grew up black in the 50s and 60s, I imagine this is a huge issue for you. You might have voted for him simply because he is (at least partly) black, which I do not have a real problem with. Of course that is completely different than those that voted against him because he is (at least partly) black. That my friends is sarcasm.

There will be a temptation, for those that supported his election, to support all he does. Please use logic. There will also be the temptation, by those that did not support him, to vehemently disagree with any decision he makes. I simply ask for logic and moderation. We must understand that our government is not our savior. You are responsible for your own decisions. It is my belief, that many would like the government to swoop in and rescue us in from any conundrum in which we find ourselves. (And with W as president, that seems to be what has happened) If the government can save us from ourselves, we do not have to think. Nor do we have to be held to a standard or any form of accountability. Just give everything over to the government.

We must stand up for ourselves. We are in a mess, not all caused by W, yet certainly not helped in many ways by W. Conservatives, Liberals, Centrists and everyone else need to withhold judgment, wait and see. This new president has a huge job, even in the best of times. It did not take 8 years to get in this situation, and it will take a while to get out. We cannot simply rely on others to bail us out. Be ready to work hard, and do not look to others to save you.

What will be the response from some when they see that not everything promised during campaign stops actually happens? What will happen when some see chinks in the amour and confidence?

We should all pray for wisdom for this man. He has a difficult job, he will be tested and no matter what he decides, 50% of the country will disagree with him. (If the people of the nation are paying attention)

My only hope is somehow this slope we are traveling towards socialism stops. I do not have much hope of that, yet maybe I am wrong. If it did not stop with a Republican in office, why on Earth would it stop with a Democrat in office? But what do I know?

The one thing we know for sure, President Obama is a smart man, and a shrewd politician. He will say many things that sound good to many. Let's see what happens.

Just one opinion.

Change is the catalyst....

It has been said that "if" is the biggest word in the English language. The word is filled with remorse at chances missed, opportunities not taken and painful lessons learned.

Another small word with great meaning is "change." This short word is, for many, the scariest word ever uttered. Many people seem to convulse when faced with life changes. Of course, change can be good. End a harmful relationship. Alter our diet, exercise more or decide to do something else for our health. Change jobs. When we make a decision on our own we are in control. That is why we don't mind this type of alteration to our life.

Many people seem to experience major trauma when faced with unplanned change. Even when the change will ultimately help us and provide opportunities for growth, we seem to balk. My thought is simply because fear of the unknown creeps into our mind.

So why do we fight against change we know we need? Why do we not seize the opportunity? Probably because we are comfortable where we are. Does comfortable equal contentment or apathy? That is probably a fine line, and probably depends on the person and situation.

Should we change for the sake of changing? Again, maybe it all depends. What we need is wisdom.

A brilliant lyric from a song I like states, "Change is the catalyst that puts my life in motion." So maybe it is time for a change. Stay tuned!