Here's a list of the ten best parts of my college experience. I want to go into greater depth for each year, but this will get it started. Here we go...
The Top Ten Moments/Memories of My Penn State Experience
10. My freshmen year dorm - would never have chosen to live with those 5 guys (except for Christian) but I loved it. Had some really interesting moments and loved living with them. If I had a blog my freshman year, you would have been able to read about some pretty crazy stories.
9. Penn State Football - if you know me, you may be surprised to see this so low on the list. That goes to show how awesome college was for me. There are specific moments where football was awesome, but this is the overall football experience during the last four years. 40 some wins and three bowl victories...not bad at all! And the student section never failed to entertain - I was stoked to be part of it.
8. Regular meetings with Aaron Henning - I would be lying if i said the relationship Aaron and I developed was not influential in my spiritual growth. His wisdom and compassion for me certainly played an immensely important role in my leadership development...and sense of humor actually. It was fun to have really serious conversations while making each other laugh.
7. Freshman Guys Bible Study - my freshman year was awesome, and so was bible study...and so were the rest of the guys in the bible study. I made some incredible relationships from that group, and I was so excited to be inspired and challenged by them every week. Looking back on it now, it's amazing to think about the leadership potential from that group. Quite impressive.
6. Winter Break Roadtrip - During my freshman year, I was asked by my Bible study leader if I wanted to go see Penn State take on Tennessee in the Outback Bowl. I said yes, and proceeded to have an amazingly fun week filled with golf, sun, beach, Dave Hine throwing up, great conversation, and a great Penn State upset!
5. ACF Baptism Services - during my time at Penn State, I went to all 8 baptism services, and I think I cried in 7 of them. There's something really powerful about seeing close friends make a stand for Christ...definitely a time to celebrate! Every time someone was baptized, all I could think about was how Satan absolutely hated what was happening. Victory is delicious!
4. ACF - most of these moments/memories/experiences are because of Alliance Christian Fellowship. Making ACF my home was the easiest and probably best decision I made while in college. The friends I made and the weekly fellowship from ACF continue to impact me. I'll be friends with some of those people for a very long time
3. Freshman/Sophomore Guys Bible STUDy - no, this is not a repeat. This is when I was co-leading it. Seeing those shy freshman guys transform to the next generation of ACF leadership was a huge source of joy for me and I'm so glad I was there to pour into them. Love those guys!
2. Living at the HOP - I loved living here, 15 minute walk to campus = far enough away that the partiers will not be a bother! Loved the parties we had there, loved the conversations I had there. Mostly, I'm super grateful for living with the roommates I had: Christian, Ryan, Aaron, Kyle. These guys didn't live at the HOP all at the same time, but they were the best. Ryan Stauffer is my best man for a reason, and that is largely because of the moments we shared at the HOP...I should make a top ten list of events at the HOP...unfortunately, only three people would think it would be legitimately funny, and I'm one of them.
1. Building a relationship with my (then future) fiance - enough said really. A total blessing. A life changing event.
I like making lists like these because it makes me think of everything that happened. It was pretty tough to narrow it down to just ten. Here are some honorable mentions: Mission Trip to New Orleans, Summer Internship in Alabama, PSU-Illinois basketball game junior year (I have to share that story!), and pranking Kate freshman year.
Showing posts with label Joy. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Joy. Show all posts
Sunday, September 19, 2010
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
What's a Doppelganger?
I would like to interrupt your long, cold, (hopefully not so) lonely winter to share with you a revelation I had earlier today. Some of you may be aware that it is 'Doppelganger Week' on Facebook.
"But Adam! I don't even know what doppelganger even means!" Fear not. As reported by dictionary.com, you now know what it means:
Dop⋅pel⋅gäng⋅er
/ˈdɒpəlˌgæŋər; Ger. ˈdɔpəlˌgɛŋər/ Show Spelled Pronunciation [dop-uhl-gang-er; Ger. daw-puhl-geng-er]
–noun
a ghostly double or counterpart of a living person.
Now that we have that out of the way, I can explain the epidemic that's happening on Facebook. Basically, if anyone has ever said you look like someone famous, you post a picture of the celebrity look alike as your profile picture and try to get others to do the same. It's actually pretty scary how close some of my friends look like other well known people. As for me, I think God is laughing at my misfortune, and I envy all of you who have a celebrity look alike.
Let me explain...
Here's my friend Jordan...this is only the side of his face, but the other side looks exactly the same.
Now compare him to the more famous Tom Cruise...
Pretty close right? Or take my girlfriend, Meagan, as another example:
Isn't she so pretty?? I certainly lucked out. Now look at this:
Am I dating Meagan? I don't know...I might as well be dating Natalie Portman's twin. That's pretty cool, right? It's awesome to look like someone who is good looking. That's where I get frustrated. Look at this...it's a picture of me and my dog Charlie.
I must admit, I am by no means an ugly person. I have enough confidence and self esteem to say that. I mean, Meagan is attracted to me, so I must have done something right. My 'celebrity' look alike makes me nauseous.
Here it comes...
Wait for it...
Wallace and freaking Gromit. People have actually said that i look like him, and he isn't even real! If you ask me, that looks more like my dad because they're both folically challenged. Only on certain occasions might I look like that.
Ok. I guess that's pretty close. Wallace still isn't real! Thank you, Doppelganger Week, for reminding me of the cruel trick that nature has played on me.
I blame my parents.
"But Adam! I don't even know what doppelganger even means!" Fear not. As reported by dictionary.com, you now know what it means:
Dop⋅pel⋅gäng⋅er
/ˈdɒpəlˌgæŋər; Ger. ˈdɔpəlˌgɛŋər/ Show Spelled Pronunciation [dop-uhl-gang-er; Ger. daw-puhl-geng-er]
–noun
a ghostly double or counterpart of a living person.
Now that we have that out of the way, I can explain the epidemic that's happening on Facebook. Basically, if anyone has ever said you look like someone famous, you post a picture of the celebrity look alike as your profile picture and try to get others to do the same. It's actually pretty scary how close some of my friends look like other well known people. As for me, I think God is laughing at my misfortune, and I envy all of you who have a celebrity look alike.
Let me explain...
Here's my friend Jordan...this is only the side of his face, but the other side looks exactly the same.
Now compare him to the more famous Tom Cruise...
Pretty close right? Or take my girlfriend, Meagan, as another example:
Isn't she so pretty?? I certainly lucked out. Now look at this:
Am I dating Meagan? I don't know...I might as well be dating Natalie Portman's twin. That's pretty cool, right? It's awesome to look like someone who is good looking. That's where I get frustrated. Look at this...it's a picture of me and my dog Charlie.
I must admit, I am by no means an ugly person. I have enough confidence and self esteem to say that. I mean, Meagan is attracted to me, so I must have done something right. My 'celebrity' look alike makes me nauseous.
Here it comes...
Wait for it...
Wallace and freaking Gromit. People have actually said that i look like him, and he isn't even real! If you ask me, that looks more like my dad because they're both folically challenged. Only on certain occasions might I look like that.
Ok. I guess that's pretty close. Wallace still isn't real! Thank you, Doppelganger Week, for reminding me of the cruel trick that nature has played on me.
I blame my parents.
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Colbie Caillat on A Rainy Day
So I was just journaling, and I felt like blogging, so I decided to sit down and type instead of write. As I was walking to my computer, I was thinking of what to name the title, and initially it was going to be 'On A Rainy Day.' Then I noticed that Colbie Caillat was playing on my iTunes, so I decided to add that...then I realized it rhymed, and I became very satisfied with myself. I've been killing the unintentional simple rhymes lately...I'm just that cool. I'm so cool that I even laugh at myself when I do it...
So there are some pretty cool things going on in my life right now. School is back in action, and that's kinda nice. It's good to be with my friends...school is just alright, but hey it's my senior year, so hopefully all of these 'just alright' classes will soon give me a 'crazy awesome' job.
Speaking of job, I just got hired to lead a youth group part time at a church in Centre Hall! How crazy awesome is that? It's weird to think that at the beginning of the summer I was wrestling with whether or not God was calling me into ministry, and through a couple conversations and and a whole lot of prayer, I feel as though the Lord confirmed my call, and now lookie! I get to spend a year with high school students and hopefully I'll get out of the way enough to let God do something amazing in their lives. I am really excited!
In addition to that, I'm also incredibly stoked for ACF this year! This is my third year serving as an elder, and it blows my mind to see how the Lord has used a handful of full time students to give direction to this church. This is my home - I feel a connection there that I get nowhere else, and I can't wait to see what is in store for this year. My guess is it's going to be incredible.
So yeah, I'm gonna be busy: ACF. School. Youth group. I'll keep you posted.
That's all for now. I could write a lot more, but for the sake of my three readers, I'll stop. I'll be blogging frequently, so don't go crazy! There's plenty more of my brain to read in the near future. Here's what's on the list of future blogs:
-My thoughts on dating - i might actually start a new blog on that
-My experiences in youth ministry - I will most likely start a new blog on that as well...the links will be on this page, so you can find it easily
-the awesomeness that is ACF
-more of the same sweetness that is my life
**Read my previous blog post...it's one of my favorites so far!**
So there are some pretty cool things going on in my life right now. School is back in action, and that's kinda nice. It's good to be with my friends...school is just alright, but hey it's my senior year, so hopefully all of these 'just alright' classes will soon give me a 'crazy awesome' job.
Speaking of job, I just got hired to lead a youth group part time at a church in Centre Hall! How crazy awesome is that? It's weird to think that at the beginning of the summer I was wrestling with whether or not God was calling me into ministry, and through a couple conversations and and a whole lot of prayer, I feel as though the Lord confirmed my call, and now lookie! I get to spend a year with high school students and hopefully I'll get out of the way enough to let God do something amazing in their lives. I am really excited!
In addition to that, I'm also incredibly stoked for ACF this year! This is my third year serving as an elder, and it blows my mind to see how the Lord has used a handful of full time students to give direction to this church. This is my home - I feel a connection there that I get nowhere else, and I can't wait to see what is in store for this year. My guess is it's going to be incredible.
So yeah, I'm gonna be busy: ACF. School. Youth group. I'll keep you posted.
That's all for now. I could write a lot more, but for the sake of my three readers, I'll stop. I'll be blogging frequently, so don't go crazy! There's plenty more of my brain to read in the near future. Here's what's on the list of future blogs:
-My thoughts on dating - i might actually start a new blog on that
-My experiences in youth ministry - I will most likely start a new blog on that as well...the links will be on this page, so you can find it easily
-the awesomeness that is ACF
-more of the same sweetness that is my life
**Read my previous blog post...it's one of my favorites so far!**
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Where Did He Come Up WIth This?
Once upon a time, there was this deer and he wandered through the woods looking for friends and food. (Food and friends were two of his most favorite things) One day he and his friends decided to go hang out and find something really fun to do, like frolic through meadows or go irritate an old, lazy, ornery bear. They walked down an old dirt path to the bear's house until they came upon a strange tree with orange balls falling from it, so they decided to check it out.
The tree was full of oranges. They bumped the tree, and much to their surprise, even more fell to the ground! One poor deer had one land on his face, which gave him quite a fright! After a short time, the deer began to become more curious. They sniffed and licked the oranges, and they immediately were overjoyed with their discovery. They ate oranges until they couldn't move, and they rested under the shade of the orange tree - which didn't provide much shade, but they were happy nonetheless.
Now you know that when you eat that much fruit, you normally have some issues later on, and this instance was no exception. Their bodies passed on all of the oranges that their stomachs couldn't digest, and it laid in small piles throughout the forest. Part of those not so pleasant little treasures contained the seeds of the oranges.
Fast forward to the present...
Not so long ago, the parents of a friend of mine visited Florida and brought back some oranges. I have had oranges before, but let me tell you, these were no ordinary oranges. They were like juicy candy - easily the best oranges that I have ever had! And I was sad when the last one was gone, because I didn't want to go back to eating regular oranges ever again.
The other night I laid in bed, reminiscing about my near life changing encounter with these incredibly delicious oranges. I remembered the smell, the taste, the virtual party in my mouth after every bite I took. And then that got me to thinking about the creativity of our Creator: how in the world is it possible that something that delicious can come from a doodie-covered seed that grew out of the dirt? Something I just ate got its nutrients from dirt, poop, water, and sunshine. Now this story is made up, but the scenario isn't too much of a stretch...so how do those four things help in growing something I enjoyed so much?
Because our Creator is creative, and he is awesome. Have you ever had any mini revelations like that? They're quite fun to ponder, and I think they make life more exciting and enjoyable. Any cool stories out there?
The tree was full of oranges. They bumped the tree, and much to their surprise, even more fell to the ground! One poor deer had one land on his face, which gave him quite a fright! After a short time, the deer began to become more curious. They sniffed and licked the oranges, and they immediately were overjoyed with their discovery. They ate oranges until they couldn't move, and they rested under the shade of the orange tree - which didn't provide much shade, but they were happy nonetheless.
Now you know that when you eat that much fruit, you normally have some issues later on, and this instance was no exception. Their bodies passed on all of the oranges that their stomachs couldn't digest, and it laid in small piles throughout the forest. Part of those not so pleasant little treasures contained the seeds of the oranges.
Fast forward to the present...
Not so long ago, the parents of a friend of mine visited Florida and brought back some oranges. I have had oranges before, but let me tell you, these were no ordinary oranges. They were like juicy candy - easily the best oranges that I have ever had! And I was sad when the last one was gone, because I didn't want to go back to eating regular oranges ever again.
The other night I laid in bed, reminiscing about my near life changing encounter with these incredibly delicious oranges. I remembered the smell, the taste, the virtual party in my mouth after every bite I took. And then that got me to thinking about the creativity of our Creator: how in the world is it possible that something that delicious can come from a doodie-covered seed that grew out of the dirt? Something I just ate got its nutrients from dirt, poop, water, and sunshine. Now this story is made up, but the scenario isn't too much of a stretch...so how do those four things help in growing something I enjoyed so much?
Because our Creator is creative, and he is awesome. Have you ever had any mini revelations like that? They're quite fun to ponder, and I think they make life more exciting and enjoyable. Any cool stories out there?
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Sunday, May 3, 2009
That's My King
I saw this last week during my last ACF of the year. I wanted to write it out but that wouldn't do it justice. If this doesn't get you excited then you don't have a pulse...
Words are by S.M. Lockridge. Hope you like it!
Words are by S.M. Lockridge. Hope you like it!
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
A Chilly Winter Burn
Dang. It's been a long cold lonely winter...ok...just long and cold, but I feel like I need to make a return to my blog. A return with some authority. Here are some of my (not so serious) thoughts while I've been gone:
The other day while I was walking to class I saw a dude up ahead of me. I wanted to punch him.
His attire: shaved head, a sweater where the collar zips up (i think he had a shirt on underneath), tight slim cut jeans, and flip flops. No lie...it was under 20 degrees outside. While everyone else was layered with winter coats, hats and gloves, this guy was visibly fighting off shivers. No sympathy here, bro. That cup of Starbucks coffee isn't going to get it done. SoCal called, and they want their idiot back.
Still pondering that dude's poor life decision (PLD), I stumbled into another semi-entertaining situation on my way back from class. I saw some guys (they were probably roommates) making a snowman. Snowmen are awesome. If there was enough snow and I had enough time, I'd put snowmen at every bus stop and public bench in the borough of State College. I'd probably give them signs to hold as well. It would be fantastic. But these guys obviously had not been taught the art of snowman building because they had stacked four giant snowballs on top of each other. It looked pretty silly if you ask me. The next morning on my way to class I walked by the snowman to see it toppled over. This is why you don't make snowmen with four snowballs: it doesn't work. It looks like a huge albino turd frozen into the ground. Now I get to stare at it every day until the middle of March.
Along my walk to school it started to snow, but this was different. It was sunny outside. Now State College's weather can be pretty schizophrenic, but I don't think it's ever snowed here while the sun was shining. Raining while sunny...that happens all the time...but never snow. I love it when it's sunny and rainy here. Last spring I saw a rainbow almost every week. It was beautiful! I don't think I liked a sunny snow all that much. It was too bright for my sensitive eyes, but it lead me to think an interesting thought: when it rains and the sun comes out it makes a rainbow...when it snows and the sun comes out it makes a...what? A snowbow? Something tells me that the chemical properties of frozen flakes of water do not allow that to happen, but it was still something to ponder.
I think this cold weather drives people crazy. People don't think straight. Flip flop boy was obviously not all with it that day. It makes other people do crazy things too...
A couple days ago I made a quick stop in the bathroom to witness an interesting sight. This bro rolls in with his music blazing in his ears for everyone to hear; he washes his hands, pees, and walks out.
Did I miss something? Is it now appropriate to wipe before you poop too? I don't understand people sometimes. My story doesn't stop there...
After class, I stop in another bathroom before my next class starts. I don't have to go, but my hands are cold and I like to thaw them out by running my hands under some warm water. I open the door, take one step, and see this chick drying off her hands. We make eye contact, I stop, check the sign on the door (it was definitely a dude symbol) and walk in and wash my hands. I wanted so badly to start talking to her but I don't think her feet touched the ground as she exited the restroom.
Cold weather makes people do wierd things I guess. I don't mind it. Sledding is a blast! And everyone needs a good snowball fight. Then again, I could always go for sunny and a high of 75...
The other day while I was walking to class I saw a dude up ahead of me. I wanted to punch him.
His attire: shaved head, a sweater where the collar zips up (i think he had a shirt on underneath), tight slim cut jeans, and flip flops. No lie...it was under 20 degrees outside. While everyone else was layered with winter coats, hats and gloves, this guy was visibly fighting off shivers. No sympathy here, bro. That cup of Starbucks coffee isn't going to get it done. SoCal called, and they want their idiot back.
Still pondering that dude's poor life decision (PLD), I stumbled into another semi-entertaining situation on my way back from class. I saw some guys (they were probably roommates) making a snowman. Snowmen are awesome. If there was enough snow and I had enough time, I'd put snowmen at every bus stop and public bench in the borough of State College. I'd probably give them signs to hold as well. It would be fantastic. But these guys obviously had not been taught the art of snowman building because they had stacked four giant snowballs on top of each other. It looked pretty silly if you ask me. The next morning on my way to class I walked by the snowman to see it toppled over. This is why you don't make snowmen with four snowballs: it doesn't work. It looks like a huge albino turd frozen into the ground. Now I get to stare at it every day until the middle of March.
Along my walk to school it started to snow, but this was different. It was sunny outside. Now State College's weather can be pretty schizophrenic, but I don't think it's ever snowed here while the sun was shining. Raining while sunny...that happens all the time...but never snow. I love it when it's sunny and rainy here. Last spring I saw a rainbow almost every week. It was beautiful! I don't think I liked a sunny snow all that much. It was too bright for my sensitive eyes, but it lead me to think an interesting thought: when it rains and the sun comes out it makes a rainbow...when it snows and the sun comes out it makes a...what? A snowbow? Something tells me that the chemical properties of frozen flakes of water do not allow that to happen, but it was still something to ponder.
I think this cold weather drives people crazy. People don't think straight. Flip flop boy was obviously not all with it that day. It makes other people do crazy things too...
A couple days ago I made a quick stop in the bathroom to witness an interesting sight. This bro rolls in with his music blazing in his ears for everyone to hear; he washes his hands, pees, and walks out.
Did I miss something? Is it now appropriate to wipe before you poop too? I don't understand people sometimes. My story doesn't stop there...
After class, I stop in another bathroom before my next class starts. I don't have to go, but my hands are cold and I like to thaw them out by running my hands under some warm water. I open the door, take one step, and see this chick drying off her hands. We make eye contact, I stop, check the sign on the door (it was definitely a dude symbol) and walk in and wash my hands. I wanted so badly to start talking to her but I don't think her feet touched the ground as she exited the restroom.
Cold weather makes people do wierd things I guess. I don't mind it. Sledding is a blast! And everyone needs a good snowball fight. Then again, I could always go for sunny and a high of 75...
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
Stoked to Have A 'Y' Chromosome!
Any time a conversation starts out with, "Now I don't mean to offend anyone, but..." someone's about to get dissed. I love it when people try to pull that trick because it never works. People get offended and make a big deal about it anyways. The story I'm about to share might rub you the wrong way. I'm simply telling the story because I think it's hilarious...and it's my blog. Should you feel yourself becoming agitated simply click the red X in the top corner of your screen and think about punching me repeatedly in the face...maybe that'll make you feel better...if not then think about happy things! Here goes...
Last week a couple of my friends and I grabbed some freshman to hang out so that we could get to know one another better. We get to the HOP (that's what we call my house) and decide to play games. What better way to get to know someone than through some friendly competition? The ratio of males to females was about even, so of course it's gotta be men versus vermin...I mean women (please direct your attention toward the red X at the top right hand corner of your screen). We start out playing 'Battle of the Sexes.' It's a good game, we shared lots of laughs... some of the answers we made up were absolutely ridiculous. Eventually the ladies got bored - probably because we were winning - so we agree to play Catch Phrase. Some of the best memories I have with my friends come out of this game, and this time was no exception...
I love this game because it's fast. I also love it because it forces people to think outside the box. I love to see the way people think when they are rushed. The men lose game one, quite a pedestrian performance at best. I credit the ladies this game...they controlled the timer in superb fashion. We fight back to win game two, and trust me it was a fight. The ladies brought their 'A' game, for sure. After the game, one of the girls says, "Well, should we stop now since we're tied and everyone's happy?" My friend Mitch quickly responds: "The only thing better than beating the girls once is beating the girls twice." Mitch, dudes like you make me stoked to have a Y chromosome! It's game on once again, and we go up 4-0 and we can taste sweet victory, but the ladies come back and suddenly we're in a dogfight at 5-4. They tie it up, and tie it again at 6...next point wins! Everyone is on edge now, ready to bring their team glory. We start, and the timer starts beating faster, it could buzz at any moment! The girls pull out a clutch response and pass it off to Eric freaking Smith...
The only thing going faster than the timer is my heart. Eric glances at the word and goes to work: "OK, stereotype: where the women are supposed to be..." All at once the men shout unanimously, "KITCHEN!" Eric nods and hands the electric game off to the lady sitting beside him, and the buzzer goes off. Ahh sweet, sweet victory in dramatic fashion! And what better way to end it than on a female stereotype!
Come on, you have to admit...that's a good story! Unfortunately all of the ladies probably hate us now...
Last week a couple of my friends and I grabbed some freshman to hang out so that we could get to know one another better. We get to the HOP (that's what we call my house) and decide to play games. What better way to get to know someone than through some friendly competition? The ratio of males to females was about even, so of course it's gotta be men versus vermin...I mean women (please direct your attention toward the red X at the top right hand corner of your screen). We start out playing 'Battle of the Sexes.' It's a good game, we shared lots of laughs... some of the answers we made up were absolutely ridiculous. Eventually the ladies got bored - probably because we were winning - so we agree to play Catch Phrase. Some of the best memories I have with my friends come out of this game, and this time was no exception...
I love this game because it's fast. I also love it because it forces people to think outside the box. I love to see the way people think when they are rushed. The men lose game one, quite a pedestrian performance at best. I credit the ladies this game...they controlled the timer in superb fashion. We fight back to win game two, and trust me it was a fight. The ladies brought their 'A' game, for sure. After the game, one of the girls says, "Well, should we stop now since we're tied and everyone's happy?" My friend Mitch quickly responds: "The only thing better than beating the girls once is beating the girls twice." Mitch, dudes like you make me stoked to have a Y chromosome! It's game on once again, and we go up 4-0 and we can taste sweet victory, but the ladies come back and suddenly we're in a dogfight at 5-4. They tie it up, and tie it again at 6...next point wins! Everyone is on edge now, ready to bring their team glory. We start, and the timer starts beating faster, it could buzz at any moment! The girls pull out a clutch response and pass it off to Eric freaking Smith...
The only thing going faster than the timer is my heart. Eric glances at the word and goes to work: "OK, stereotype: where the women are supposed to be..." All at once the men shout unanimously, "KITCHEN!" Eric nods and hands the electric game off to the lady sitting beside him, and the buzzer goes off. Ahh sweet, sweet victory in dramatic fashion! And what better way to end it than on a female stereotype!
Come on, you have to admit...that's a good story! Unfortunately all of the ladies probably hate us now...
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
Jumping for My Parachute...
I'm kinda bummed right now...I just burned my mouth and tongue sipping my tea. I was really looking forward to it, but now every sip is going to be a burden and far from soothing. Because of that I can't even eat anything, and I'll probably have sores in my mouth tomorrow, so I'm sitting around with nothing to do and I have lots on my mind but I don't want to talk about it because my mouth hurts. Thankfully I don't use my mouth to type so this is a solid choice. I'm done venting now...
What I really want to type about is this: I really appreciate music. I know lots of people who love music more than me and who understand music better than me, but I love how music meets me where I'm at. I love music's ability to articulate my thoughts and feelings. Relient K does this kind of thing to me all the time. I used to despise this band because, at first glance, they come across as really silly. Christians singing about a chick asking this dude out to the Sadie Hawkins dance isn't my idea of spiritual fulfillment. As I listened to more of their music I found that they have this brilliant quirkiness that makes a whole lot of sense. They talk about spiritual stuff in a very creative way and I can really relate to it.
In their song, "Life After Death and Taxes" (a little spoof on a common phrase...they're good at that) there is this one line that I absolutely love. In fact, it's one of my favorite quotes:
And this is how I choose to live
As if I'm jumping off a cliff
Knowing that you'll save me...
I like extreme stuff. I want to strap myself into a parachute and jump out of airplanes and off of cliffs or buildings or bridges. I love that feeling I get when I do stuff like that. I think those lyrics are a great depiction of the Christian life. Sure, life is dangerous and uncertain, but it's also exciting and beautiful! Why stand on the edge and think about the things that could happen? What are we waiting for? Jump! Wouldn't you do so much more stuff if you knew that everything would end up ok? I know I would! Not only that, but I would invite others to join me. "God works for the good of those who love him," right? We have the confidence that we will be safe when we land, so enjoy the ride! That's not to say that we won't get banged up or bruised along the way, but we'll be safe nonetheless.
This is a great thing for me to think about because like so many other people my age, I have no real idea of what my future is going to look like, and based on past experiences, my dreams sell myself short. With all of the things going on in my life - school, friends, church, relationships, ministry, carreer aspirations...the list goes on - wouldn't it be easier for me to jump, enjoy the ride and trust God to have me land right where He wants me? Afterall, where I end up will be better than what I could do for myself. I shouldn't worry about all of that. It's all in the Lord's hands and he's blown my dreams away time and time again. I think life is better this way...I think it's supposed to be this way.
What I really want to type about is this: I really appreciate music. I know lots of people who love music more than me and who understand music better than me, but I love how music meets me where I'm at. I love music's ability to articulate my thoughts and feelings. Relient K does this kind of thing to me all the time. I used to despise this band because, at first glance, they come across as really silly. Christians singing about a chick asking this dude out to the Sadie Hawkins dance isn't my idea of spiritual fulfillment. As I listened to more of their music I found that they have this brilliant quirkiness that makes a whole lot of sense. They talk about spiritual stuff in a very creative way and I can really relate to it.
In their song, "Life After Death and Taxes" (a little spoof on a common phrase...they're good at that) there is this one line that I absolutely love. In fact, it's one of my favorite quotes:
And this is how I choose to live
As if I'm jumping off a cliff
Knowing that you'll save me...
I like extreme stuff. I want to strap myself into a parachute and jump out of airplanes and off of cliffs or buildings or bridges. I love that feeling I get when I do stuff like that. I think those lyrics are a great depiction of the Christian life. Sure, life is dangerous and uncertain, but it's also exciting and beautiful! Why stand on the edge and think about the things that could happen? What are we waiting for? Jump! Wouldn't you do so much more stuff if you knew that everything would end up ok? I know I would! Not only that, but I would invite others to join me. "God works for the good of those who love him," right? We have the confidence that we will be safe when we land, so enjoy the ride! That's not to say that we won't get banged up or bruised along the way, but we'll be safe nonetheless.
This is a great thing for me to think about because like so many other people my age, I have no real idea of what my future is going to look like, and based on past experiences, my dreams sell myself short. With all of the things going on in my life - school, friends, church, relationships, ministry, carreer aspirations...the list goes on - wouldn't it be easier for me to jump, enjoy the ride and trust God to have me land right where He wants me? Afterall, where I end up will be better than what I could do for myself. I shouldn't worry about all of that. It's all in the Lord's hands and he's blown my dreams away time and time again. I think life is better this way...I think it's supposed to be this way.
Monday, October 6, 2008
Fight for Joy
So the name of my blog is 'Fight for Joy.' If you know me, I think you'd agree that the title describes me fairly well. I only just recently realized that my life story thus far has been one complex, messy and beautiful quest for joy. Growing up I searched for happiness...things that I thought would make me happy: friends, popularity, success, material stuff, girls, sports - the list goes on. Those things did make me happy, but much to my surprise, I wasn't satisfied, so I pursued more happiness. Little did I know that I was being set up for a kick in the face...
...And what a glorious roundhouse it was! The summer before my senior year in high school, the Lord did an extreme soul makeover inside me, and in a period of a couple days I went from the 'pursuit of happiness' being my life and all that I am to God becoming infinitely worth it. I had been blindsided by the outrageous love of Jesus! Only then did I realize that I desired joy the whole time, and I had no idea what I got myself into. My world was turned upside down and I didn't even know it...that comes later on in the story...
Where does joy even come from? It certainly doesn't come from me, since I couldn't produce it growing up. (God loving me - his creation - and not the personas which I created comes into play here, but I'll save that for another time) That must mean it comes from the Lord...it's a gift (makes sense since it's a fruit of the Spirit). We are instructed to 'be joyful always...' how does that work? If we can't produce it how can we reflect it? That's where 'Fight for Joy' comes in. If you've experienced the Love of the Lord of the Dance (I can't take credit for that...those are Brennan Manning's words) you know exactly what I'm talking about. You've tasted that joy. Unfortunately we mess it up and we lose sight of the prize and our joy fades with it. What are we supposed to do? We fight! Is it worth fighting for? Satan thinks so - if that wasn't the case then I think joy would be easier. Lacking joy is losing sight of God's glory...FIGHT TO SEE! He wants to show us amazing things!
So, the name of my blog is 'Fight for Joy' because I desire to see. I fight because I want to see more. I fight because I think it's worth it. Entire books have been written on this topic, but this is a blog so I can only share a couple points before you get bored! I hope it encourages you to fight to see. Look into it! Thanks for reading!
Special thanks to Brennan Manning, Nate Larkin, and John Piper for helping me articulate my thoughts...
James 1:2-4, Habakkuk 1:5
...And what a glorious roundhouse it was! The summer before my senior year in high school, the Lord did an extreme soul makeover inside me, and in a period of a couple days I went from the 'pursuit of happiness' being my life and all that I am to God becoming infinitely worth it. I had been blindsided by the outrageous love of Jesus! Only then did I realize that I desired joy the whole time, and I had no idea what I got myself into. My world was turned upside down and I didn't even know it...that comes later on in the story...
Where does joy even come from? It certainly doesn't come from me, since I couldn't produce it growing up. (God loving me - his creation - and not the personas which I created comes into play here, but I'll save that for another time) That must mean it comes from the Lord...it's a gift (makes sense since it's a fruit of the Spirit). We are instructed to 'be joyful always...' how does that work? If we can't produce it how can we reflect it? That's where 'Fight for Joy' comes in. If you've experienced the Love of the Lord of the Dance (I can't take credit for that...those are Brennan Manning's words) you know exactly what I'm talking about. You've tasted that joy. Unfortunately we mess it up and we lose sight of the prize and our joy fades with it. What are we supposed to do? We fight! Is it worth fighting for? Satan thinks so - if that wasn't the case then I think joy would be easier. Lacking joy is losing sight of God's glory...FIGHT TO SEE! He wants to show us amazing things!
So, the name of my blog is 'Fight for Joy' because I desire to see. I fight because I want to see more. I fight because I think it's worth it. Entire books have been written on this topic, but this is a blog so I can only share a couple points before you get bored! I hope it encourages you to fight to see. Look into it! Thanks for reading!
Special thanks to Brennan Manning, Nate Larkin, and John Piper for helping me articulate my thoughts...
James 1:2-4, Habakkuk 1:5
Friday, October 3, 2008
I Love it when this Happens!
Ever experienced one of those times when you come out of something and feel like a better person? A changed person? I wish that those would happen to me more often.
Today it happened in the form of a nap. Yes...a nap. (by now you're clicking the 'x' in the top right hand corner of your screen because this is ridiculous, or you're completely captivated...)
A life changing nap? Come on, Adam, that's absurd! Don't waste my time and everyone else's by blogging about a stupid nap... First of all, I had a pretty rough week. I'm not bragging about my week because I know people who had way more stressful weeks than me, but considering my major, it was a busy week. I normally rock between 7 and 8 hours of sleep per night. (also goes to show the vast workload i have) Actually, I really try to manage my time so that I can do that...I love my sleep! Anyways, this week I've been rocking 5 and a half to six and a half...so it's quite a decline in sleep production. I woke up yesterday really feeling it: sore throat, stuffy nose...not good. Today was worse. I wanted to crash walking to class, sitting in class, walking home from class, and eating my lunch after class. Being done at 11 on Fridays is such a blessing.
I grab my down blanket (so nice!) and my goose feathered pillow, lay on the couch and dose off to the soothing sound of Jim Rome's voice...ok his voice isn't that soothing, but it was like having a friend read you a bed time story as you fall asleep...serene! An hour later, I hear the back door open. I figure it's just Ryan so I fall back asleep. Apparently it wasn't Ryan because Ben had written me a nice little letter. All I can say is that I hope he's jealous of me because when I woke up I was a new man...completely reenergized and excited for the afternoon! My stuffiness was gone, I was completely awake, and there was Jim Rome, still talking as if he never stopped. I was overjoyed! I could almost hear the soft angellic voice in my head: "Hello Adam, this is the weekend speaking. It's good to see you again. I heard you just paid a visit to Mr. Friday afternoon nap...I hope you enjoyed his company!"
And I did enjoy his company. In fact, I was so stoked that I had to share my experience with a friend who's had a similar experience. Then I had to blog about it, and now you have to read about it. But seriously, can anyone relate to this? (Ryan Stauffer probably can...) Some people think I'm crazy when I tell them about my life changing naps (This isn't the first time) and I feel kinda sorry for them. You are totally missing out!
Bring on the weekend!
Today it happened in the form of a nap. Yes...a nap. (by now you're clicking the 'x' in the top right hand corner of your screen because this is ridiculous, or you're completely captivated...)
A life changing nap? Come on, Adam, that's absurd! Don't waste my time and everyone else's by blogging about a stupid nap... First of all, I had a pretty rough week. I'm not bragging about my week because I know people who had way more stressful weeks than me, but considering my major, it was a busy week. I normally rock between 7 and 8 hours of sleep per night. (also goes to show the vast workload i have) Actually, I really try to manage my time so that I can do that...I love my sleep! Anyways, this week I've been rocking 5 and a half to six and a half...so it's quite a decline in sleep production. I woke up yesterday really feeling it: sore throat, stuffy nose...not good. Today was worse. I wanted to crash walking to class, sitting in class, walking home from class, and eating my lunch after class. Being done at 11 on Fridays is such a blessing.
I grab my down blanket (so nice!) and my goose feathered pillow, lay on the couch and dose off to the soothing sound of Jim Rome's voice...ok his voice isn't that soothing, but it was like having a friend read you a bed time story as you fall asleep...serene! An hour later, I hear the back door open. I figure it's just Ryan so I fall back asleep. Apparently it wasn't Ryan because Ben had written me a nice little letter. All I can say is that I hope he's jealous of me because when I woke up I was a new man...completely reenergized and excited for the afternoon! My stuffiness was gone, I was completely awake, and there was Jim Rome, still talking as if he never stopped. I was overjoyed! I could almost hear the soft angellic voice in my head: "Hello Adam, this is the weekend speaking. It's good to see you again. I heard you just paid a visit to Mr. Friday afternoon nap...I hope you enjoyed his company!"
And I did enjoy his company. In fact, I was so stoked that I had to share my experience with a friend who's had a similar experience. Then I had to blog about it, and now you have to read about it. But seriously, can anyone relate to this? (Ryan Stauffer probably can...) Some people think I'm crazy when I tell them about my life changing naps (This isn't the first time) and I feel kinda sorry for them. You are totally missing out!
Bring on the weekend!
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