Monday, May 31, 2004

Memorial Day

Memorial Day is a day in which we take time to remember, celebrate, and honor those who have died in the name of Freedom. I'd like to say a few words about my great-uncle Oscar. Although I never met him, I can tell from his picture that he was a great man. He died in WWII at the age of 22. Even though he died before my parents were even born, I miss him. "He stands in the unbroken line of patriots who have dared to die that freedom might live, and grow, and increase its blessings. Freedom lives, and through it, he lives--in a way that humbles the undertaking of most men." 

Oscar was posthumously awarded the Purple Heart in November 1946. The following is his story:

Oscar enlisted in the Army Air Corps shortly after World War II began. After receiving his wings and accepting the commission as Second Lieutenant he began training in B-24 bombers. He was next assigned to the 15th Air Force and stationed in Italy. In October 1944, Oscar's plane was shot down over Austria. He was declared M.I.A. One year later, Oscar's father received a letter that no parent wants to read. 

"With deepest regret, I have learned that an official determination has been made of the death of your son who has been missing in action in Europe. Word has come to me that Lt. R****** earnestly undertook cadet training which he successfully completed with an excellent academic record. As a capable officer, he took his responsibilities seriously and faithfully executed assignments. His performance as a skillful pilot, respected by associates, was in keeping with the finest traditions of this command. I hope that the memory of your son's courageous sacrifice for his Country will comfort you. My heartfelt sympathy is offered to you and other members of the family."

Click HERE for Memorial Day History

Saturday, May 29, 2004

icky days

I really don't like being sick. There's nuthin' worse than being ill on a Saturday. Specially when you have things to do. Everyone has those days when they feel like if they could only cut their head off, everything would be alright. Head colds! UG! I've been spending my time looking up other novice filmmakers' works. Check out www.visiongatefilm.com if you're interested. Of course, don't forget to check out my own shorts at www.outofilmproductions.com. C-YA!

Friday, May 28, 2004

bitter

I woke up this morning thinking about how lame my H.S. Senior year fast pitch coaches were. I could've done a better job with half a brain. They new the game, sure. But they didn't know people. They didn't understand how to work with girls either. First off you should make sure everyone gets along. A divided team cannot win. If you can't fix that, then realize that you're not going to having a winning team and just make sure everyone is having fun. Then you might get your miracle.

My Junior year I got stuck on JV, but I'm so glad I did. We went undefeated. But the Varsity team didn't say kiss my foot or nothing! They looked down on us. How lame. So of course next year we didn't like each other. They kept saying things like "Yeah, that was JV teams you were playing, this is Varsity." And the coaches of course had favorites which didn't include me and my friends from last year. Yes, I know it's been three years, but I'm still a bit bitter. I think it has to do with me not saying anything to them. They were terrible. All they did was yell and criticize. My batting skills went down the tube because I never had any coaches coaching me in that area. And I only got so much time in the cage to begin with. They wanted to help the players that could already hit just fine. So my little group of senior friends and I almost quit. We talked about it a lot. But I couldn't be a quitter. In the end only one of us left. I wish I was as strong as I am now, I would've told them a thing or two.

Wednesday, May 26, 2004

the duck

Just to let you know, I meant to miss Tuesday's post. Sunday and Tuesday will be my no post day. The fact that I missed Wednesday.... that was just a fluke. It was a long day. I went up to Seattle to meet some friends passing through. It was a bunch of fun. How come you can wave at people and be silly when you're riding the duck? Why can't you be the same way when you're just riding your own car? I got some pictures of Seattle residents which I will post when I get them back from the developer. I know this is weird, but I've lived here in Washington for 9 years and have yet to go up to the Space Needle. Then again, I have been to the top of the Swiss Alps! Trust me, the view from up there is way better than the Space Needle could ever offer.

Monday, May 24, 2004

right place at the right time

Why is it so difficult to be in the right place at the right time? Where does a gal go to be in a position to be found by prince charming? Maybe it's not me. Maybe Mr. Charming isn't using his eyes the way he's supposed to. Figures. What do you expect from a guy who doesn't move anything around in the fridge before calling out "where's the pickles!?".

Saturday, May 22, 2004

question

When will I ever meet Christians who think it's normal to talk about the things of God in daily conversation? Why do people limit God to organized events? That's really all I have today. It boggles my mind so that I have nothing else.

Friday, May 21, 2004

money doesn't grow on trees

I will never understand people who enjoy their 'cubical' jobs. God bless - somebody's got to do it. It just ain't going to be me. I'm a hands on kinda person. I've got to be moving. And I'm very project oriented. I don't like working for an hourly rate, it makes me feel like I have to be busy every second I'm on the clock and I feel like I have to be really fast. I like to tackle jobs on a project by project basis - getting paid the same way. I can go at my own pace and even eat lunch without feeling like I'm spending someone else's time. My time is of great value and so is yours, I don't want to be the one you lose money on. LOOK OUT WORLD, HERE I COME!

Thursday, May 20, 2004

pillow fight

Every morning for the last . . . I dunno. . . month, I've had to fight my pillows and covers just to think about getting out of bed. I have to find a reason to get up before I start moving. Today's reason was that I need to write up a resume and drop it off at a few places, and I want to buy a capo so I can learn this song I've been wanting to play for so long. Ew, Dr. Pepper for breakfast isn't the best idea.

Wednesday, May 19, 2004

shamed

I am ashamed that I missed yesterdays blog. But I'm over it now, so you should be too. Today I'd like to post an email I received this morning.

Allah or Jesus? by Rick Mathes


Last month I attended my annual training session that's required for maintaining my state prison security clearance. During the training session there was a presentation by three speakers representing the Roman Catholic, Protestant and Muslim faiths, who explained each of their belief systems. I was particularly interested in what the Islamic Imam had to say.

The Imam gave a great presentation of the basics of Islam, complete with a video. After the presentations, time was provided for questions and answers.

When it was my turn, I directed my question to the Imam and asked: "Please, correct me if I'm wrong, but I understand that most Imams and clerics of Islam have declared a holy jihad [Holy war] against the infidels of the world. And, that by killing an infidel, which is a command to all Muslims, they are assured of a place in heaven. If that's the case, can you give me the definition of an infidel?" There was no disagreement with my statements and, without hesitation, he replied, "Non-believers!"

I responded, "So, let me make sure I have this straight. All followers of Allah have been commanded to kill everyone who is not of your faith so they can go to Heaven. Is that correct?" The expression on his face changed from one of authority and command to that of a little boy who had just gotten caught with his hand in the cookie jar. He sheepishly replied, "Yes."

I then stated, "Well, sir, I have a real problem trying to imagine Pope John Paul commanding all Catholics to kill those of your faith or Dr. Stanley ordering Protestants to do the same in order to go to Heaven!" The Imam was speechless. I continued, "I also have problem with being your friend when you and your brother clerics are telling your followers to kill me.

Let me ask you a question. Would you rather have your Allah who tells you to kill me in order to go to Heaven or my Jesus who tells me to love you because I am going to Heaven and He wants you to be with me?"

You could have heard a pin drop as the Imam hung his head in shame.

Senders words: Needless to say, the organizers and/or promoters of the 'Diversification' training seminar were not happy with Rick's way of dealing with the Islamic Imam and exposing the truth about the Muslim's beliefs. I think everyone in the US should be required to read this, but with the liberal justice system, liberal media, and the ACLU, there is no way this will be widely publicized.

Monday, May 17, 2004

update

I just love photographs. Each one can tell a story or bring remembrance of a wonderful memory. If I could wallpaper my room with pictures, I think I just might. By the way - MoTown . . . great music!

Saturday, May 15, 2004

it's 5 o'clock somewhere

I know it's 7 at night and these entries are supposed to be my morning thoughts, but ...... in the words of Alan Jackson 'it's five o'clock somewhere'. Moving on... Why is it so hard to take chances? I mean, you know you'll feel better even if things turn out bad. Kids never contemplate the consequences, why do we? What is the fear that attacks us at just the moment we've decided to take action. Why think twice? That is my question to you, the reader. Why as adults do we suddenly feel the need to think twice?

Friday, May 14, 2004

tickling the ivories

I'm teaching myself to play guitar, but I really want to learn the piano.

disappointment cuts me like a knife

Spotting someone across a crowded room brings new excitment. Sometimes it's better if you both stay on your side of the room. The irony is that you won't discover that until you meet. But is it better to not take the chance? What if it's a love to last a lifetime? Or just a kind word that lifts your day? Maybe it would be disappointing, but who's to say it was worthless?

Thursday, May 13, 2004

the death of common sense

Ever have one of those days when it's just one thing after another? And what ever happened to common sense? People today have made rules and regulations their god. How sad. Not only are they blinded to so many things, they put themselves in a box. Not to mention the usless laws they pay attention to while ignoring the moral law. They'll steal, rape, and murder, but won't dare to park in a handicap parking space. That would be against the rules.

Wednesday, May 12, 2004

Cheramie

Her belt is squeeky.

under construction

Much like my website, my life is always under construction. One day it will be complete. Until then, I'll keep running the race. It sure would be nice to run the race along side another soul. It's a lot easier to get up from falling that way. It also makes the race more exciting when you can share it with someone.