Under the Cover

Beantown Madness

2006-08-08T17:56:00.000-07:00

Another two incredible weeks of speech and debate camp have come to a close for me in this wild and crazy summer of mine. The more I engage in this activity the more compelled I am to believe that it could be something I want to do for a living, or more significantly I realize how much I enjoy teaching. During this last camp, a much smaller one than the previous one I worked, I was broadsided by the depth of the impact that I can have on some of my students lives as a speech and debate coach. To some degree it frightens me how some people that have sat in my lectures or listened to my tutelage idolize me or say in their hearts I want to be like him. I write that not to be arrogant, because it is not unique to me, it occurs for almost every instructor. While it is a little daunting, it also represents the opportunity for incalculable impacts not only in the lives of a small group of children at camp, but a gargantuan influence in the spheres of influence that those kids run in. Most kids at speech and debate camp are smart and when they go home many are the leader of their pack, but even if they are not, if they have the ability to clearly articulate ideas and concepts, others will listen. That means stuff I say or teach them has the potential to be repeated in some form or fashion in a high school classroom or on a speech and debate trip and the influence of the ideas spreads a little farther. I guess for some this grassfire effect seems like a grand and noble impact, but one that is unrealistic. I realized a few summers ago, how real it is. When a friend of mine went to Italy, and while waltzing down the streets of Venice he and a friend ran into a few other American girls...those girls, students of mine at speech and debate camp in 2003, and I had made enough of an impact on their lives that they spent a dinner conversation talking about what I had taught them and how much they learned from me in those two short weeks. That all occurred in the summer of 2005, two full years after that camp occurred.
For me that means that living out of a suit case and racking up frequent flyer miles as I criss-cross the country working at camps is not merely a job or a money making adventure. It's a genuine opportunity to dynamically affect the lives of America's thinking high school youth. How far that influence goes, I leave wholly and confidently in the hands of Divine Providence. I only hope that history and the hand of Divinity judge that influence as a steady and consistent compass guiding young people down the path as they search for truth. I do not profess to fully understand the consequences of my influence, but I am thankful for the opportunity however big or small it may actually be. It's been work, it's been tiring, it's been frustrating and angering at times, but in the end whether its my time in the Beantown Madness of speech and debate camp in Boston, or educating 'neath the LA lights I just want to say thanks for all you who have made it possible. I've had the time of my life...

LA Lights....

2006-07-16T08:42:00.000-07:00

No man means all he says, and yet very few say all they mean, for words are slippery and thought is viscous, because I agree with Henry B. Adams I affirm, Resolved all high school kids should attend at least one speech and debate institute during their high school career. If your not a debater or you just have no interest in reading a case right now, keep reading that is the extent of my debate jibberish.
That said I have had the esteemed privilige this summer to land a couple of the sweetest gigs that I could imagine. The first, which just wrapped up was working at the Victory Briefs Institute at the Univ of California at Los Angeles. (aka UCLA) Besides enjoying the hotel style accomodations, that is to say staying in dorm rooms that put some houses to shame, and the food of DeNeve Commons (which although its "a little" repetitive is still like eating gourment trash can food as opposed to the regular trash can food served at the average college dining hall) being involved in a camp that empowers people of all skills levels and abilities to think more clearly, more critically, and develops the ability to articulate their ideas is an awesome experience. I will admit, it may not have been as awesome without the luxuries of hitting up the local Starbuck's for a Caramel frap or rolling out in the bosses Mercedes every few days, but nonetheless its the essence of the experience that I enjoyed the most. Several of our campers I remember distinctly in my mind. Most of them were not the brightest, smartest, or best debaters "on the flow", (referring to the technical aspects of debate setup in the framework of Lincoln Douglas debate in order to provide an avenue to evaluate the activity competitively) but the worked hard (wayyy harder than I ever did in high school debate) and made significant progess during their time at camp. Some could hardly articulate an argument when they hopped off the plane a few weeks ago, and now, watch out Mark Geragos, our budding stars are going to be stealing your clients some day!
For me I think the chief reward is having a lasting impact on other people's lives. Political internships and summer business soiree's aren't inane or pointless, but at some point it becomes inevitable that you as an individual get swallowed by the beast. (the company/ politician for whom you are employed) Your rhetoric and ideas are driven by the image that the boss wants to promote. Trust I'm in the military, and I believe very few business are as effective as the big green machine at damage control on the dirty issues, and selling a positive, attractive, and conducive image. It's not even bad that as an employee that you promote your companies philosophy, (assuming its a good one) but at a debate camp you have the opportunity to teach young minds the art of thinking and developing coherent positions, as opposed to the science of marketing and selling an image.
The bonds and friendships I have made with fellow staff members, and the interaction I have had with high school students over the last couple of weeks has been amazingly refreshing and rewarding, although sleep wasn't often to be had! The comparitive advantage may or may not exist compared to other lucrative summe internships in terms of dollars and cents. However, the lasting impact and future influence on the thinking minds of America is a far more substantial and lasting effect than the short gain of a few dollars and cents. After all, if it's not about what you take when you leave this world behind you, you might want to leave something behind you when you go that is lasting and life changing for other people.
We can' silence voices....Plato said, "Wise men talk because they have something to say; fools, because they have to say something. " At the end of the day our kids are talking and they are saying something, and they are equipped to influence and effect thousands for good. At the end of the day choosing this road of summer camps in the yellow wood, has made all the difference!!

Imminent Corrpution...?

2006-06-26T08:58:00.000-07:00

The drama in the Hollywood tabloids gushes each day from the tips of greedy magazine moguls to millions of readers who feast on the corruption. Tonight's local 6 o'clock news whether it is in Greenville, SC or New York City is sure to be dominated by coverage of death, theft, and the latest mega corporate scandal. Scene change to college campuses, high school hallways, and to the minds of our middle schoolers. The picture looks different, but deep at its roots this lust for corruption is just digging in and planting its roots. It's not quite so explicit, but the childish games we play as youngsters to get back at the kid who is dating the girl we "love", are every bit as loathesome as the magical accounting practices of Arthur Anderson. The ever more frightening reality is that the same attitude of spite and trickery we attempt to employ as a 3rd grader to gain advantage in the playground game of soccer, also causes corporate moguls to destroy the lives and fortunes of millions of people. I don't think they necessarily intend or even desire to harm so many people, yet their insatiable thirst for power and prestige drives them to knowingly dangle thousands from a thread of silk.
Are we a hopeless band of humans who cannot hope to escape the perverse attraction to power? Is there some arcane magic attached to success that mandates corruption? Can good people do great things?
Thankfully the view from the top does not have to be shrouded in drakness. It is difficult and requires self denial and disgression, but reaching the pinnacle of your world can be achieved through honest hardwork and dedication. I am not naive. I understand that it is absolutely necessary at some point for the the average Joe to catch a break, for someone to give him acess to the door of opportunity. But I truly believe that if you work hard and have the skill in your trade to excel that eventually your break will come. It is hard to pour your life into work if you don't ever get a pat on the back or an "at-a-boy" from your peers and more importantly your superiors. But which is more noble, to labor tirelessly, without the expressed gratitude of others, or to give everything you got while the rewards and accolades roll in? Obviously the answer to that question is simple. Perks and recognition make work easier, but is that all we labor for? Do we work for a raise, for a trophy, or a title? There is certainltly nothing wrong with reward and it has its right place, but if that is our goal, all the sudden it's so easy to see why corruption is rampant not only in the lives of the rich and famous, but also in the lives of the class of 2012. After all if achievement is the absolute measure of worth then why wouldn't I cook the books to tack another 50 million onto the bottom line? Why shouldn't I smear my opponent with lies to gain political office? Why shouldn't I lie and cheat to win the competition? It seems like corruption is imminent. We seal our own fate by the things we deem most valuable....We want stuff...and lots of it.
So I suppose that's it. Hope this doesn't depress you too much, and good luck not getting swindled by your next door neighbor who is trying to meet expectations....
Thankfully, the dots don't end there. There are generous (and wealthy) gurus. They don't get the press, because alturism and charity don't sell except on the Disney Channel and in Hallmark stores. They don't sell because we demand to hear about the tragedy and corruption of others. We thrive in hearing about "dirty" people so we can justify our own sick selves. Love and genuine concern for helping others often is subtely expressed through small acts that garner no reward other than the knowledge of a job well done and the aid given to someone in need. Yet the small town high school teacher who has poured his heart and soul into his students for 30 years and has little to show for it himself, can be utterly satisfied that his life has counted for something lasting. His young students now populate the globe influencing others. Some are famous, some are themselves teaching for little pay in a small school, where the principal doubles as the janitor.
We can change the culture. If we open the door for someone, and they race through it to a world of success, pat them on the back and say good job. Don't clamor to steal from their success. May we strive to give to others, whether it's a cup of cold water or just asking somebody how they are doing. Understand that achievements are fleeting and individual fame is temporal, but genuine concern and investment in the lives of others will grow and be passed from generation to generation.
I'm not advocating that you boycott the news and business magazines. Just take the time to say thanks and recognize others who have helped you out, even in small ways. If your the one helping don't lust for the success you may have opened the door to. After all you didn't achieve it yourself. Be proud and excited for people who catch the break instead of jealous of them. Cheer them on whole heartedly, and watch your investment grow. Sure it may not have your label or name on it, but after all who cares, because isn't it the product inside the wrapper (that you have had a hand in creating) that truly counts?

It's Sun and Fun, It's Summertime...

2006-05-10T14:08:00.000-07:00

Across the nation milestones are celebrated. Set against the backdrop of warm sun kissed days, cooled by the occassional spring shower, America is breaking forth. Mimicking the pattern of the residents of our local greenhouse, we are awakening after a long winter's nap. It's a peculiar time of the year. Everyone it seems has a an extra hop in their step or song in their heart.
For some it's the completion of their freshman year of high school, that first step in the rite of passage to adulthood. For others it's graduation, a celebration of 4 glorious years of football games, academic examinations, proms, and homecoming queens. Lil Timmy is just excited that school is out and that he now has 3 extra hours of daylight to play before dark. The breaking of the spring marks the completion of another year's triumphs and trials. It is the threshold beyond which sits newlywed couples, summertime family reunions, lake trips, church mission trips, and family vacations. A time to rest, relax, and recouperate before autumn beckons us to the harvest fields.
If your celebrating a milestone or the completion of a degree, job well done and my congratulations to you. If your just basking in a break amidst the demands of your prescribed course of study, enjoy the respite from your work. Seize the days you have and make much of your opportunity. In all you do seek the guiding and directing hand of our Almighty Creator. Kick back, buy that lemonade from the young lad's stand of the street, and make these the best days of your life.

Back from Iraq....On the Beating Path

2006-05-02T15:01:00.000-07:00

It's been nearly a year since I have had the opportunity to write. That year has been a plethora of new and exciting adventures. From months in the war torn sands of Iraq and back to home sweet home in the USA, I have had the privilege to scribble a few drops of blood and sweat on the pages of history that my poserity will read about year from now. I'm not a hero, nor do I claim to be. I'm just another American who does my job, it just so happens that my title is Marine, and my job is warfighting. Freedom is worth it my friends. I missed family and friends dearly, but I would gladly do it again to preserve the blessings of liberty for the people and the nation I love. It is good to be home.
I've always loved to write. While in Iraq, I started writing some poetry and I'm going to start including it in this blog along with the full gamit of other topics. Below is a little poem that is a little insight into what it looks like from a Marine's point of view. Semper Fidelis and God Bless.

A United States Marine

In a crowd you're bound to spot him,
He's standing so very tall
Not too much impresses him;
He's seen and done it all.
His hair is short, his eyes are sharp,
But his smile's a little blue.
It's the only indication
Of the hell that he's gone through.
He belongs to a sacred brotherhood,
Always Faithful 'til the end.
He has walked right into battle
And walked back out again.
Many people think him foolish
For having no regrets
About having lived through many times
Others would forget.
He's the first to go and last to know,
But never questions why,
Or whether it is right or wrong,
But only do or die.
He walks a path most won't take
And has lost much along the way,
But he thinks a lot of freedom,
It's a small price to pay.
Yes, he has chosen to live a life
Off the beaten track,
Knowing well each time he's called,
He might not make it back.
So, next time you see a Devil Dog
Standing proud and true,
Be grateful for all he's given;
He's given it for you.
Don't go up and ask him
What's it's like to be in war;
Just thank God that it's your country
He's always fighting for.
And thank him too for all the hell He's seen in that shade of green,
Thank him for having the guts
To be a United States Marine

What are YOU doing...?

2005-07-09T22:58:00.000-07:00

There are two types of people in this world. Those that READ history and those that MAKE history. The unique thing about history is that it transcends cultural, racial, and ethnic barriers. Everything and everyone has a history. Civilizations have it, and it encompasses the development of the red ant species. So which category do you fall into? Are you passively existing? Merely watching as your middle school crushes, high school classmates, and college friends scribble the next few pages in the annals of history? Or are you setting high and lofty goals and pursuing them, pushing yourself to the next level, refusing to settle for the "average" life?
Now many of you are thinking, I have no desire to be a corporate CEO or an accomplished Nuerosurgeon at the MayoClinic. There is nothing wrong with that. I'm not prescribing that the only course to achievement is in the spotlight. Living life is done more so in homes with single parents raising kids, and in families where Mom and Dad are busting it just to put food on the table and scrape up enough so the kids can participate in sports, ballet, or play a musical instrument. It's those heroic acts in hellish places across the globe--from the jungles of Vietnam and deserts of Iraq to the streets of D.C., Smalltown South Dakota, or NYC-- that develop the fabric of a nation and bind the history books.
I'm not advocating a humanistic philosophy. Regardless of what you accomplish if you forget that you are empowered only because Almighty God deems it in His good pleasure to do so than you ultimately will fail miserably. The Bible poses the question, " What does it profit a man if he gains the whole world and loses His sole? " The answer is of course nothing. If your relying on accomplishments or accolades to save you, you are attempting to hold water in a cracked pot.
I know in about a month when my boots hit the sand in Iraq, that my unit will be making history. Just like the heroes who saved thousands of lives on 9/11 you will probably never see our names in history books, but we will be there. If you read between the lines you'll see us there. Right beside us you will see single parents who raised kids through anguish and adversity, you will see individuals who rose from poverty to prominence, you will preachers and ministers who have passed on money and fortune to serve Almighty God. Aristotle said excellence is not something you are, it is something you repeatedly do. Therefore greatness is not a single act, but rather a lifestyle. Don't be content for what you have done in life. Be progressive and future oriented. Be passionate and go hard after your desires. When everyone else is satisfied, drive on, insisting on more.In all things keep God at the center of your world and thank Him always for what He has given you. Rely solely on Him for the salvation of your soul. When the ink dries on the next chapter in the annals of history I'll be there, will you? More importantly when we step in the next life, when eternal history begins in heaven and hell, where will you be?

What is it about Marines...?

2005-07-03T11:11:00.000-07:00

Throughout churches, city halls, and small town main streets of America patriotic tunes and hymns ring, VFW post gather, and young men in crisp uniforms snap to attention and whip a quick crisp salute as Old Glory passes by. Inevitably in this celebration of our nation's freedom a young man will be seen in his Marine Dress Blues. A black coat, with shiny gold buttons, and red trim, blue trousers with the familiar "blood stripe" running down the seam, shiny black shoes that are as smooth and slick as glass, topped off by a white cover displaying the Marine Corps emblem on a clean shaven, "high and tight" head. Just the mention of the name "Marine" to the average citizen elicits a response of awesome respect and admiration. The everyday civilian may not know the names of battles like Bellau Wood, Soissons, Iwo Jima, Guadalcanal, Inchon, Hue City, Saigon, An Nasiriyah, Basra, or Al Fallujah, but they do know the ferocity and power that has characterized Marine Corps Warfighting since 1775. Marines are considered a different breed, a complete anomolye compared to fellow armed service members. What is it that makes this organization dynamic and elite? What creates such an effective and efficacious fighting force? Why are those that don the Marine uniform respected and feared in countries around the world?
Regardless of who you ask the answer to the question will likely include the amazing and outstanding warfighting history of the United States Marine Corps. The solution to these questions will resonate with how the Marines go willingly and without question to hell on earth at their commanders beckoning to defend freedom and liberate foreign peoples. A recounting of the Marines impressive history begs another question? Why, Why, Why? Why in the Marine Corps is "UnCommon Valor a Common Virtue?" Why do they jump on hand grenades or charge uphill into machine gun nest?
There is no one particular reason to answer those questions. It is due in part to the nature of how Marines are "born" at Parris Island, SC and in Sand Diego, CA. The lifestyle after bootcamp from the condition of the barracks to every Marine being trained as a rifleman, is a major influence on the performance of Marines in combat zones. However, I would submit to you that one often overlooked chracteristic that distinguishes Marines from their peers is the unwavering loyalty and iron brotherhood that links one Marine from another. From 4 Star General to a Private fresh out of boot camp the Marines are linked by a code of honor, courage, and commitment. Marines do seemingly crazy and insane acts with each other in mind. Marines will do anything and everything for their fellow "devildogs" , because Marines are instilled and trained that in a combat zone all they have is each other. No one is their to keep them company or comfort them during times of boredom and loneliness, and no one is their to watch their back in a firefight...no one but fellow Marines. The United States Marine Corps is an amazing fraternity whose members value the lives of their fellow Marines above their own.
Relentless training, demanding standards, and an unmatched drive for perfection are all contributing factors to the greatness of the Corps, but all of these attributes are derived from the self-sacrifice instilled from day one in US Marines. The belief that the team is more important than the players is not a fancy cliche'. It's a way of life. It's what makes us The Few, The Proud, The Marines.

Happy Fourth of July. May God bless each of you richly and may God Bless America.

Semper Fidelis
Joe

Packing for Deployment

2005-06-25T16:58:00.000-07:00

I haven't been trying to neglect those of you who take your precious time to check out the blog. It's just been a busy week. The shortest day I saw was 12 hours. Thats in the office. Then throw in gym and PT(physical training) time and it gets really hard to take the time to post instead of sleeping.
Anyway. Its Saturday, and we worked yet again. However , we didn't have to work all day and I got about 12 hours of sleep last night, and I needed a break from the book Im reading so here I am.
In boot camp "Packing for deployment" was merely a nickname for a game drill instructors would play. It was silly and ridiculous. Yet one of those priceless treasures that drill instructors use to teach Marines Discipline- instant willing obedience to all orders, self-reliance, and teamwork. It went something like this...Piece by piece drill instructors had you put every piece of clothing you could on your body, from thermal long johns to gortex (rain gear) to flak jackets and kevlar helmets. Then you take everything else you own at boot camp and stuff it in a pack or seabag, and then throw those on your shoulders. Its chaos and it can get a little annoying, but so far it isn't all that different from spinning up for the real thing.
I got news down the pipe Im going to be deploying (for real this time) to Iraq in August. (the date I can't reveal for operational security) Not to mention it's a whirlwind of emotions there is a lot to be done. Aside from the 3 page gear list we have, (which of course means numerous and repetitive gear inspections) there is loads of leg work to be done on top of our everyday job to get self and the entire detatchment ready to rock and roll. Before heading for Disneyland in the sand I'll be going out to CAX- Combined Arms Exercises- a 3 week field training exercise at Twenty Nine Palms, California. It's three weeks in a desert that was declared "unfit for human life" by the Army. The Marine Corps quickly scooped up the land and it is now used as a warfare training site for thousands of Marines annually.
I have more to write on other topics...so check back soon

semper fi
joe

Elimination of Church and State?

2005-06-16T19:03:00.000-07:00

Since around 1993 displaying the Ten Commandments in Federal Buildings, namely courthouses, has become about as popular with the ACLU (American Civil Liberties Union) as UN Inspectors in Iraq. The ACLU has used high powered lawyers and its deep coffers to try and intimidate and coerce judges from exercising their first amendment right. The ACLU insist that opening court sessions with prayer and the acknowledgment of God unfairly forces religon on those present in the courtroom and violates the Constitution...They are about as accurate as grand jury testimony by Bill Clinton.
The first amendment states " Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religon, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of spech, or of the press; or the right of the people to peacebly assemble, and to petition the government for a redess of grievances." The argument from the ACLU focuses on the begining clause, commonly known as the "Establishment Clause." The ACLU and many other legal minds contend that this is where the principle of absolute seperation of church and state is spelled out.
A little history behind the law may make it easier to see how bizarre the ACLU claim is. The colonials who established the Constitution and its' amendments had come from England. When Henry VIII was the king of England he longed for a divorce from his wife, Catherine of Aragon, because she failed to bear a male heir. The Catholic church refused to allow the divorce. Henry VIII proceeded to break break away from the church and establish his own church of which he was the head. Since then, the ruling monarch of the ruling family has been the head of the state and church. Authority over the church and state allowed the ruler to manipulate both the religeous and spiritual realm for his own personal gain, and it sucked the liberty out o the land. In order to prevent future abuse, the drafters of the Bill of Rights put the Establishment clause into the Constitution.
No where does the first amendment prevent the acknowledgment of God by public officials. George Washington's first act as president was a public prayer of thanks to God. Since 1789 judicial officials and the President have been ending their oath of office with "So Help Me God." Both Houses of Congress open everyday with prayer. Yet despite that this behavior is not only tolerated but allowed and even condoned by the Decleration of Independance the ACLU claims its illegal. How does the Decleration condone it?....One of the justifications for the break from England by the colonialist was the "laws of nature and nature's God." Furthermore the Decleration acknowledges that "all men, are endowed by their Creator (it is capitalized in the document, indicating a proper noun...a person) with certain inalienable rights. There are numerous Supreme Court cases that have resulted in opinions supporting the acknowledgement of God the political and judicial realm. Furthermore, if the ACLU did its' research they would see how many of the Founding Fathers had some kind of Judeo-Christian beliefs. It is impossible to deny the evidence. (If you want more than what's hear email me and I'll send plenty your way) Yet the ACLU still continues to file lawsuit after lawsuit to eliminate God and the Ten Commandments from America's courtroom. The sad irony is that the "laws of nature and nature's God" are the moral basis for America's legal code. Without them no law would exist in the US. Failure to acknowledge God does not expand religeous freedom, it eliminates it!
Whether Christian, Jew, Muslim, Buddhist, or whatever your religeous beliefs may be it is absolutely necessary that all Americans acknowledge the existence of a Supreme Creator God. Without Him and the laws of Nature He mandated man would be in a perpetual state of anarchism and lawlessness. The ACLU refuses to sleep. They continue to use intimidation and manipulation to get their case before liberal federal judges who are legislating illegally from the bench. We must not stand idly by and watch our freedom washed away by villanous schemsters who claim to protect us. The end result will be the washing away of the church and the destruction of the state. When the issue arises again stand up for truth...both legal and spiritual truth... it won't be easy, and may not be popular, but perserverance and persistance are stepping stones to sure victory.

Hate the Players, Not the Game

2005-06-13T18:38:00.000-07:00

I had just walked in the door to the room in my barracks. It was as usual ridiculously hot. (because we are required to leave the shades on the window open during the workday) I walked in took off my blouse (that's military speak for a cammie top) and jumped on my laptop to check my email. Long before I could get to juno my attention was grabbed by the headline on Foxnews that the Jackson jury had reached a verdict. Just minutes before the verdict was read I flipped on the T.V. anxiously anticipating what the outcome would be. It was Tom vs. Tom. Sneddon vs. Mesereau. Jacko vs. a 14 year old accuser. This trial had all the dramatics--A has been superstar with tons of loyal fans despite the fact that he hasn't produced a good record in over a decade, a prosecutor whose been attempting to pin Jackson since about the same time his last good record came out, a tight fisted judge imposing a gag order tight enough to make the BTK Killer cringe, and a defendant who showed up in pajamas looking like Captain Crunch.
Jackson walked into the courtroom, himself looking like the scared 14 year old in the case, and it was time to get out the word. Slowly the verdicts came one by one. There were 10 counts in all. After each count was read the Clerk of Court said "Not Guilty."
Of course there was immediate and intense reaction on both sides. Many people believe Jackson got off because he was a celebrity, others say he got off because he never did anything. Personally, I don't see how a grown adult man admits to sleeping with boys, pays out millions to settle a previous case against him, and has no friends over the age of 15 could possibly be completly innocent, but that doesn't matter. Whether you agree with the jury or think they are a bunch of weak cowards, hate the players not the game.
Despite the fact that I believe Jackson is guilty I was proud to see the American justice system at work. Jackson had a fair trial. A fair and balanced judged that didn't give the trial away to the defense. If anything, the judge's one big decision to let in prior bad act evidence from 1993-94 case favored the prosecution. The State took their best shot. Jackson's defense team provided a vigorous defense and a verdict was reached. What a beautiful thing that we have a country where we have not only a chance, but the right to a fair, public, and speedy trial by a jury of our peers. In this case the justice system performed marvelously from the bench to the bar ot the jury box.
In the days to come every attorney and legal person on the face of the earth will try and point out where the prosecution went wrong. (like the mother's testimony on the stand or the way Jacko's attorney just dismantled any chance of believing the accusing family's testimony on cross examination...or just the fact that as in the OJ Simpson case, the evidence was there, but the prosecution blew it completly) Whether you like the verdict or not be thankful for the system we have. The outcome is up to the jury, but due process was afforded to both sides in the case. It stands as a triumph for the American way of justice in spite of the claims of countries around the world that we are a harsh and vicious country that is tragically unjust. Remember that although Jackson was aquitted does not mean he is not guilty. He may have molested children, he may have given alcohol to minors, he may have forced children to commit lewd acts on him....It still could have happened. Yes that means the justice system isn't perfect. It means guilty people go free, but it is better for 9 guilty men to go free than for one innocent man to go to prison. It's a risk, but it's calculated. It places the arm of action in the hands of the American people rather than in the evil clutches of a perverted bureacracy. It means we the people risk making a mistake, but thats ok because the biggest risk in life is not taking one at all.

One Shot...One Kill. It's a Marine Thing

2005-06-11T10:49:00.000-07:00

"Every Marine a Rifleman" is one of those bedrock mantras that each individual who earns the elite title "Marine" has heard from his earliest days of boot camp. The theme that regardless of Military Occupational Specialty (MOS, or military speak for "job") every Marine will be able to fire a weapon is fundamental in the Corps. This past week as I arrived at the rifle range at Weapons Training Battallion at approximately 445am every morning I was greeted with a sign that reminded me of this age old Marine slogan. On one hand it was motivating and it pumped me up. On the other hand it was a sober reminder that no matter what we do, every Marine is equipped to sight in and put rounds on a target. It helped me focus. It helped me qualify as a rifle expert.
This ability is one of those things that sets us apart from other branches of service. Whether your a cook or a legal clerk you are still required to qualify every year with the rifle. The only exception is for those in the rank of Gunnery Sergeant or above who qualify with the 9mm Beretta pistol instead of the M16 rifle. One way or another every Marine has to shoot. The incentive to shoot well is multifold. How you shoot not only could save your life, but it affects your promotion to. The higher score you shoot the better set you are to get promoted. This makes Marines a rare breed. Regardless of rank or job Marines are warriors. Trained to fight, to survive, and to succeed in combat.
That all sounds nice, but you might be wondering is it really pragmatic? Has a financial clerk ever shot at someone in combat? The answer is yes. There are cooks in the US Marines who have Combat Action Ribbons for being in sustained firefights. Just recently a group of reservist in MOS's like admin clerk, supply clerk, and cook found themselves pinned down with no help. They proceeded to whip it on, using the instincts and basic skills every Marine has, and after several days of intense fighting they founght their way out of what seemed a hopeless situation. Today even as I write, several bases in Iraq have Marines guarding the base. These rifle companies aren't made up of infantry guys. They are composed of admin, supply, and computer guys. That doesn't make our bases unsafe either. It just means our infantry Marines can focus their time patrolling, going house to house, and doing what they do...Seek out, close with, and destroy the enemy through fire and manuever.
This principle in practice isn't the only things that results in the success the US Marines have, but every Marine being armed with ability to hit a man from 500 yards away with iron sights is an awesome capability. It isn't everything, but it is just another thing that for 230 years has made our name synonomous with the defense of freedom. It's just one of those things that make us the few, the proud, the US Marines.

Semper Fi
Joe

Leadership...A Credo

2005-06-08T17:27:00.000-07:00

Scores of studies have been done on great leaders to attempt to discover the magic behind dynamic leaders. Thousands of books have been written on the most effective top dawgs in every profession from military generals to Fortune 500 CEO's. Despite very different organizations many of these leaders share common leadership traits that make them effective.
I think perhaps the greatest single common thread among effective leaders is accountability. Whether it is running a money making machine or leading young men into battle to give their lives for their country every great boss forces his employees at all levels to be accountable. The results are staggering. Forcing people to be accountable ensures them that they will not get away with a 50 percent effort. Instead of glossing over low performance leaders openly question those who are substandard. On the flip side accountability also recognizes those under you who are performing effectively and those who are shining above expectations. Combining the carrot and stick approach gives your subordinates something to strive for and motivates them so that they don't get called out or look bad in front of their peers. The result is that the company wins from inspired and motivated employees, and the workers benefit from the satisfaction of a job well done, and the recognition from management that they are doing a good job.
The men in the corner office also must be willing to make hard decisions. Fundamental to making tough decisions is a solid and developed leadership philosophy that is more than a verbose statement, but is a real life management creed. In no organization is life at the top a bed of roses, despite what is portrayed. One wrong decision could plummet a company into devestating losses for the quater or year, or it could cost a battallion of Marines their lives in a costly firefight. These decisions involve intense pressure and anxiety, but leaders make them, and then go hard with their decision. The flip side of this coin is that leaders also accept the consequences, whether it is elite triumph or stunning defeat.
Finally all great leaders maintain the morale of their subordinates. It isn't a science. There is no black and white. This is perhaps the most neglected aspect of many companies. Often times as long as profits are high, or reports are good leaders assume everyone is happy. Nothing could be further from the truth. Part of boosting morale revolves around recognizing your people for what they accomplish on a regular basis. Make them believe in the company or the system, and you as a leader. It may getting off early on Friday twice a month or a bonus for outstanding performance, or it maybe something as simple as recognition in front of peers for a job well done. It does not take huge acts to keep employees motivated. It only requires that you take time to consider their needs. Help them out when they are in need. Your faithfulness to them will be returned with their loyalty to the organization and to the leader.
This isn't a comprehensive credo, just somethings I have learned from reading about effective leaders from Sun Tzu to Rupert Murdoch. Whether your a student leading a college organization or in management in the professional world mandating accountability, being decisive on the hard issues, and maintaining the morale and welfare of your subordinates will derive fierce loyalty and productivity from your people. Applying and practicing effective leadership results in a healthy organization, a work environment where people actually enjoy their job, and management and employees that learn and benefit from each others' strengths.

I Have Been Blessed...

2005-06-04T06:50:00.000-07:00

I Have Been Blessed…
Last Friday I was driving home from Camp LeJeune like I have done just about every other Friday for the last few months to spend the weekend at home and get away from the base. I stopped at the same Burger King I always stop at to grab some grub on the way back. As I was driving I heard a song on the radio and its title is the subject of my blog….”I Have Been Blessed.” I am horrible with singer’s names so I won’t even try to guess who it was, but the author of the song mentions all the little ways in life that she is blessed everyday, from the “kiss of the sun each morning” to “hearing my kids laugh down the hall.” She didn’t sing of anything that I would consider amazing or miraculous it was just life.
Little did I know hours later I would be nudged off the road, spin backwards, smash into a tree, and spin back around in the median of the interstate. It’s now been about 3 hours since that accident occurred. I’m sitting in a gas station waiting for my dad to come pick me and my car up. I have no idea what my insurance company will be willing to do as far as fixing the vehicle, although I do have full coverage. However, the slight impact from the other vehicle was on the back of the car, which is also the end that smashed into a tree so there was no clear evidence of another vehicle. Thankfully the officer noted that I was run off the road, but it’s up to the insurance company as to what they do with it.
As I was sitting here I was drawn back to the message of that song. I have been blessed. First of all the most obvious thing is that at this moment I am uninjured. Anytime your in a car accident that occurs at about 67 or so miles per hour, you hit a tree, and you can walk away… you get the point!...I was blessed that it was the rear end of the car that hit the tree and not my door or somewhere in front of me. I was blessed by the truck driver who stopped, gave me the number to highway patrol, and let me hang out in his truck to stay dry till the state trooper arrived. I was blessed that the trooper was willing to believe me and note that I was run off the road by another vehicle though no concrete evidence existed, and I am blessed that I have someone who can come get me, and tow my car home on his trailer so I can avoid an otherwise undoubtedly ridiculous towing bill.
But before that all occurred I was thinking, man I am blessed. Often times I’m asked if it bothers me that I’m out of college on active duty with the Marine Corps in the middle of my college career… Would it be nice to finish school? YES, and I will eventually. Does it bother me…NO. I am doing something I love, and that is being a Marine, serving my country. School will be there when I come home from this deployment. God has given me a strong body and strong mind able to do a lot physically and mentally. I am surrounded with a loving family and some incredible friends. I live in a free country where I can worship, write, and wish as I please. I am in a land where no government or agency sets the limit of my hopes and dreams. My hope is sure, my faith is certain. My future lies in the hands of the Creator of the Universe, my all loving, all knowing, all powerful Heavenly Father.
So after this weekend has a taken an unexpected turn of events (even into the median of an Interstate!) regardless of what happens to the car or from here, as I look at the sun, a fiery golden orb that lights and warms the entire globe, rise to its perch in the bright blue sky each morning, and descends to give way to the nightlight of the earth each evening I will observe the daily wonders of creation and the very awesome wonder of human life itself and all the sudden a little car accident or even something more serious pales in comparison to what I have been given. It just so easy to see that God has been amazingly good and gracious to me. He guides me and loves despite my wayward heart. It’s just so easy to see…I have been blessed.

God Bless You and May God bless America,

Joe

Memorial Day....A Tribute

2005-05-30T08:43:00.000-07:00

Winston Churchill's famous words, "Never has so much been owed by so many to so few," regarding the heroic actions of the Bristish Royal Air Force in crippling the Germans in WWII are as fitting today as they have ever been.
In the last three years America has shattered walls of tyranny and oppression in Afghanistan and Iraq. Almost 1,600 American lives have been lost in the conflict. 15 years ago America was again at work protecting Kuwait and the rest of the Middle East from Sadaam Hussein, a man who personifies the face of evil much like Hitler in World War II. Just a year before the Persian Gulf, American victory in the Cold War was signified by the falling of the Berlin Wall. In the era of the 60's The United States Armed Forces left the comfort of home for the rice paddies and swamp land of Vietnam jungles. In the 50's US Forces fought for the first time in house to house urban combat in liberating South Korea, from the oppressive Northern regime. On Dec 7, 1944 the Japanese painfully awoke the sleeping giant and America again answered the call with resolution and fortitude and turned the tide in WWII. After World War broke out for the first time in 1914 in looked as if the Germans were unstoppable. The French were getting crushed. Once American support arrived the French hoped to let the Americans take the beatining long enough to regroup and then try to defeat the Germans. The French would never get that chance. Marines at Soissions, Mont Blanc, and Bellau Wood showed the world that US Service Members are a different breed. It was in this war that the Marines earned the nickname TeufulHunden. The name literally means "devildog," and was given by the Germans because the intensity and bravery that the Marines demonstrated was of a caliber the world had never seen.
Today in Washington a 1o3 year old man, one of the last living veterans from WWI will ride in a parade to represent his fellow comrades from wars both past, present, and future. On this Memorial Day we celebrate those who answered their nations highest calling, to defend freedom and liberty. America has always been and will continue to be successful in may different types of warfare not as a result of technology or money. America's success is result of the tenacity and undaunting steadfastness of her sons and daughters in the face of impossible odds and the continual blessing of Almighty God, her Creator. The courage and bravery of America's Armed Service men throughout her history is awe-inspiring. No words can describe it, enough thank you's could never be said. Though we wish we could, we cannot bring back our fallen comrades. However, as we celebrate this Memorial Day may we remember and recognize that our brothers, sisters, mom's, and dad's who have paid the ultimate sacrifice did not die in vain. They died fighting for a noble cause. Many of them protecting freedom for millions of people they would never know, faces they would never see. They loved their country more than they loved themselves, and they loved liberty more than life. To them we owe an infinite debt. May they rest in peace.
As we move forward supported by the work they have done on our behalf, may we be faithful to honor their sacrifice, and never forget it. May we also carry out the charge that they give to us...Semper Fidelis. May we always be faithful to God and country. Freedom has a price. It must be fought for, protected, and passed from generation to generation. As we march forward into the future let us be courageous and brave as those who have gone before us in the past. Let us defend freedom and liberty fiercely and without apology. Then we will confidently say to our sons and daughters and our fellow citizens, "Sleep eay tonight, I won't let you get hurt, not on my watch."
May God bless you, and May God Bless America.

Semper Fidelis,
Joe

I'M BACK...FOR REAL YA'LL

2005-05-24T14:40:00.000-07:00

To the ever dwindling numbers of people that have consistently checked my blog for the past several months and found nothing, but stale archaic writings...Marine Mayhem is back on the blogging big board. I'm not really sure why I haven't posted since final exam week in December...perhaps it's because when I came to Camp LeJeune for a little active duty stint with the Marines I let the insatiable urge to hand jam on small black squares and consequently create waves in the cesspool that often makes up the blogging world, slip from me. But I'm back.
What's spurred my return....Well namely it's because I'm out on a rifle range detail doing my annual qaul with my good ole M16A-2 service rifle. This approximately 9 pound 5.56mm, gas operated, air cooled, magazine fed monster can be seen performing daily in cities across the globe. It is of course the standard issue weapon to the world's most dangerous weapons...US Marines. So what's the range have to do with blogging? Im glad you asked. The answer is nothing. However, when your on a range detail ya have more time in the day because being on the range doesn't take all day...it usually takes til about 1300 (also known as 1 O clock to the average civilian) so I'm off early and I have a little more time on my hands.
I've been using a lot of that time to work on a course in Microeconomics. The benefits of this kinda academic pursuit are three-fold. First, it keeps my brain somewhat operational so when I finally do make it back to college I won't flunk out. Second, its economics, which is the study of choices and why people make them....so it's giving me deep and profound insight into the world around me. (Or so it claims to be) And finally, it gives me something to engage my brain other than Tetris and reading books. Both of those are noble pursuits but we all need diversity right? Wouldn't want to leave any inanimate objects out...they have feelings to.
That second benefit I listed above is no where more evident than in my choice to kick back up this editorial fiasco that is my blog. I have more time, therefore I want to use it and not be a vegetable. Blogging is a sort of engaging activity and if nothing else it's a good time killer. Hence because I have more time I blog.
So here I am at Camp LeJeune and what am I up to?.... Well for those of you that I have already explained this process too feel free to skip along. For those of you that have no clue what I do here it is. (Mind you I am trained as an Ammo "Dawg", so all of this I learned on the fly and through self study of the system)
I'm currently working with Marine Air-Ground Task Force Distribution Center Company (MDC Co....yeah you knew something about the military was going to have acronyms. However I will do my best to avoid turning this paragraph into a cloisterous clump of aggravating, agitating acronyms.)
Our company as a whole has three sections. Operations, Shipping and Receiving, and Packaging, Preservation, and Packing. (P3) Our mission is to provide a distribution focal point that maintains In-transit visibility and sustains throughput velocity in order to ensure operational tempo. We do this mission to serve II MEF. (Marine Epeditionary Force...basically thats just about every unit stationed on Camp LeJeune...about 40 thousand Marines) Our mission entails ensuring the delivery of gear and equipment to II MEF units stationed at Camp LeJeune and to II MEF units across the globe. Along with delivering that gear we are tasked with maintaining in transit visibility, which means that we can tell you (the supply officer, supply chief, commanding officer, or whoever of a unit that is receiving gear through us) when your gear left our warehouses, when it will arrive and pretty much anything else about it you could want to know. This task is achieved through a network of Radio Frequency Infrastructure that is setup on military installations (including Iraq) all over the world. This infrastructure combined with Radio Frequency ID tags, and several servers based on secure internet allow us to achieve our mission. Specifically I work in the operations section and am the duty expert. I track down gear, find gear that is lost, find out where gear goes that has incorrect or no paperwork or shipping documents, write data to RF-ID tags, monitor Camp LeJeune's RF-ID infrastructure to ensure it is operating correctly, and a number of other things. Those are the sorts of activities that the operations section does....yes I do all of those, but I have help!
Along with that we do some typical "Marine" stuff. Been on about 3 humps, (ya know marching along with packs on!) spend time in the gym, been on a crew served weapons range (240 machine gun, SAW machine gun, Mark 19 grenade launcher) and put some rounds on target, and been through some training on patrolling, convoys, and good stuff like that.
In my spare time as I mentioned earlier I'm working on a college course, still reading a lot trying to stay abreast with life outside the gates, hanging out with the Marines of MDC, or just chillin in the barracks.
As far as deployment goes I'm not sure. I don't know what is gonna go down. Whether I go to Iraq or not it looks like I'm going to be back in Greenville sometime around December or early January. That may include a little time in the sand...As I've said before, I'm a Marine and deploy and fight for freedom is something we do. So it would be an awesome opportunity and if God gives me the chance I'm going. Yeah it means sacrifice and it means hard and lonely times for family, friends, and myself, but God is good, His grace is sufficient, and I know we all will be okay. Wether it is at Camp LeJeune or in deserts and jungles across the globe know that there are people all over the world ready and willing to give their life for your freedom. Freeedom is a gift, but it is not free. It must be fought for, defended and passed on from generation to generation. People say our generation is worthless, just a bunch of pot smoking, acoholic, head banging, skateboarding, time wasting kids. To them I say we kids are the ones barnstorming at record speed across the Iraqi desert to liberate a country in 30 days. We kids are the ones searching cold Afghani mountains to hunt down the world's meanest terrorist. We kids are the ones that posses the charge to defend and protect our freedom for this generation and for those of the generations before us that no longer can. We kids.....We will. It's all good....it's going to stay that way as long as "we kids" are on watch.

Thanks for reading...Semper Fi

Joe

Whats Been Up...?

2004-12-07T20:30:00.000-08:00

Whats goin down ya'll? Been bout a month since I've hit up the site. Just been crazy busy, but I'm doing well and God's been heeping grace out on me to keep me not only alive but functioning well. Just to fill ya in on where I've been...
Schools been kickin my butt a little. James and I just been jammin over at the Rock, ole BJU. Grades are still good but I've seen a number of sleepless nights over the last few months, however totally worth it. It allows me to keep up a decent academic record and not totally trash EVERY relationship I have. Although a number of em have been stretched, some to the point of damge control and recovery, but God has been good and taught me and other s quite a bit I believe.
Outside the school world, still volunteering a bunch with the Marines, doing funerals, color guards and whatever I can. On that note, maybe heading to Iraq in January for bout 6 months or so, but not sure yet. It would be a sweet opportunity, although it would take some sacrifice. There's advantage both ways and if God opens the door I'm sprinting through it, if not I'll be right back in the classroom. My bro, Ensign Poore(James) just jetted with the US Navy bout a week ago for his first big 6 month tour at sea. Im jealous cause I do kinda want to get some medals (by takin a little tour myself) but I know its hard for his wife, and mom, but everyone is gonna be ok.
Also starting to work...basketball season has kicked off and hence my job is now up...Refereeing basketball. Enjoyable, good money, and helps pay my bills and some other people's so all around its a good deal.

Anyway im gonna jet...there's homework to be done. Ill be back to bringing it on the blog (that literary device is called alliteration) much more, especially once final are done next week. To all those with exams this week...Hey its game time, so bring it and good luck!

Semper Fi

You've Got to Stand for Something...

2004-10-26T19:17:00.000-07:00

As the political race comes down to the wire the news reports seem to repeat themselves...Kerry bashes Bush on Iraq, Bush trashes Kerry on lack of leadership, inability to get stuff done... Quite honestly it's a bit boring and pretty uninspiring on both sides.
However, I am struck by one underlying theme of John Kerry's entire philosphy. He never takes a stand for anything. Every plan, solution, or position he takes is extensively inclusive. On abortion....pro choice, you can have an abortion or not. On the War...voted for it, voted against it. We should be there, but only after pursuing dead leads in negotiations for years on end(Say, until a republican is in the White House and will take the heat for military action). On homosexuality not for it personally, but not against it for you. Healthcare, just pay it out for everyone. Welfare, the bigger the better. Tax cuts...more on high incomes, none on low incomes. This trend shouldn't shock voters though. It began in Vietnam...fought in the war, then returned to the safety of the U.S. and undermined his fellow troops by treasonously speaking against the war effort and the government, who at the time still had authority over him as a member of the military. As a member of the military it isn't your job, or even your right to decide if war is justified. It is your job to go and fight wherever, whenever, and for whoever the commander in chief says. No matter what the topic, Senator Kerry consistently takes a position of complete compromise. There is no logic, no plan, no reason other than say what the voters your talking to want to hear. Forget the idea of being a public SERVANT and doing what is best for the nation. It's all about winning votes to him. Ronald Reagan took some very unpopular stands against the Soviet Union, the United States people(on the economy), and against the world(Iran), but he was decisive and had a positive vision for his country. John Kerry has no vision, he refuses to be decisive. It is impossible to lead if you don't know where your going. (vision) It's impossible to lead if you can't enact your vision, even when it means unpopular choices. (Decisiveness)As you hit the polls on election day just remember...this man has no idea where he is going, and even if he refuses to take a stand for anything... and if he gains office, it could be an intern, terrorist dragging out negotiations, (Sadaam Hussein, Kim Jong Il-leader of North Korea), or huge government spending, but whatever it is John Kerry is all to likely to fall for anything.

Vote Wisely.

For the Love of the Game...

2004-10-23T19:22:00.000-07:00

Crisp cool air, premature Christmas advertisements, and homework assignments being doled out faster than welfare payments...It must be October, and this must be the World Series. Tonight, for the first time since 1946 the culminating series of America's pastime will find a home in Boston. Whether your a Red Sox or Cardinals fan, or even if your a Baltimore Orioles fan this year's post season play has been a treat. Not only did we have the excitement and enertainment of yet another New York/Beantown thriller, with more twist and turn then even native Bostonian John Kerry could provide, but the senior league (a nickname for the national league for my reader's who aren't as jargon literate for the sport) for the first time in year's generated some excitement as well. While this year's World Series promises to be just as exciting, when a ton of big bats and a couple of shaky pitching staffs get together, this year's postseason has revealed that in this day of overpriced, overpayed, and underworked athletes an elite few still remain.
This elite group isn't composed of the best pitchers, the batting champ, and the gold glovers. It's made up of the guys that don't play ultimately for the money or the fame. They play for the love of the game. They play because its fun, exciting, and envigorating. They play to live out their childhood dreams of smashing the game winning home run in game 7 of the World Series. They play with one goal above all others...To be World Champion, and they are willing to do whatever it takes to get there. Like a seasoned hollywood cast they know their roles, and whether in the lead role, or as a stagehand they work to achieve perfection.
Whether you love the Red Sox or hate them, whether you admire their goofy hairstyles and pine tarred helmets, or view them as slob team from the street corner, you can't deny their passion for the game. After losing year after year to NY, they refused to quit, coming back year after year, receiving their heartbreaking beating and then coming back next year, only to have the cycle repeated all over again, waiting for that one day when the bounce would go their way, and the party would be in their lockeroom...This is their year, and these are their days.
While their passion and spirit is a rarity in their profession, its all to common among our true heroes--the men and women who dawn the uniforms of the United States Armed Services. Though they play for more than just a game these men and women daily work and fight for a cause greater than themselves. Living in often rough conditions, eating cold meals out of bag, and waking up each day never knowing if it will be their last, they fight on. Relentlessly they pursue those who seek to do us harm, and they do violence on our behalf so that we might be protected. And for a few they pay the ultimate sacrifice, in giving their life not only for their country, but for her people--us. We sleep peacebly at night because of them, we drive on paved roads, vote on election day, and spoil oursleves with luxurious gifts because of their work. They don't get holidays off, and they can't call in sick. But why do they do it?...It's because they love honor and duty, more than they love their lives and their fortunes.
As we go about our daily grind, and enjoy the freedom they so willingly protect may we not only be thankful, but also emmulate their unselfishness--giving ourselves without fear or reservation to causes greater than ourselves. Being willing to participate and give it our all when their is no glory for us, but instead their is good for someone else. May we live and love passionately, give graciously, and live unashamedly not before the audience of the world, but before an audience of one--Our beautiful, majestic Savior who is worthy of our love, our worship, and our lives.

Semper Fi

Straight Talk

2004-10-22T13:47:00.000-07:00

During the republican primary of 2000 Sen John McCain from Arizona ran as a challenger to then Gov Bush. Senator McCain's campaign theme was "The Straight Talk Express." While it's expected for a politicians claims of straight talk to be as assinine as Bill Clinton's claim to virtuosity, the often twisted communication practices of politics are not an enigma to the "common man."
Our daily communication often mimics our public officials. How often do you find yourself in a situation where you manipulate the facts to fit your plan or schedule? For example...FACT: I did not recieve a raise. TWISTED VIEW WE TELL EVERYONE: I did not receive a raise because my boss is afraid that if he rewards me to much I'll become a threat to his position. Let's also consider an academic example. FACT: I received a not so hot grade on a paper. TWISTED VIEW: The teacher never even gave me a chance to get a good grade because he/she does not like me... The hidden reality in both these situations,and many others like it that occur everyday, is that we twist the facts so that the outcome is still the same, but we still look good in front of our spouse, peers, or friends even though the outcome demonstrates a shortcoming.
Perhaps a more devastating and common way in which we mirror politicians is in how we deal with problems. Instead of taking action and going to the root of the problem, we try to eliminate the symptoms or , more often then not, we don't do anything. Instead of acting we take the much more highly effective and succesful method--sit around baffled as gossip flys around the synapses in our brains like insults in George Steinbrenner's office. And like our politicians and Steinbrenner, we hem and haw about problems to everyone, but who they deal with, and the end is the same in every situation... NOTHING HAPPENS. And even worse yet we alienate those people that care about us. (Note: Steinbrenner may not actually do this, not because he doesn't chase away his personnel, but rather because they don't actually care about him.)
When we finally get to talking to people that can actually affect the outcome of the problem it often amazes us how well things work out. Why? I'm not sure, other than that facing problems is more foreign to us than the prospect of the Pope at a rock concert. If we'd buck up, accept the risk that someone might not like us, or might get mad, and confront the situations in our lives the result would undoubtedly be a lot less stress and relationships that are greater in number and quality. And afterall, if the only thing that lives on after we die is influence it might me something we should work at. As Nov 2 approaches and its time for us to elect the next head of the world's body politic let's learn from their bad examples. The backstabbing and ferocious world of politics often leads to the destruction of the lives of innocent people, because while politicians fight for position and honor among themselves issues like healthcare, nat'l defense, and the economy get tossed aside. Don't let our smoke screen of complaints allow us to destroy ourselves and our relationships. Follow Captain MacWhirr from Conrad's Typhoon, face the storm, charge in hard, hold on for dear life, and rely on a POWER greater than yourself to land you safe on the farther shore.

Love's a Many Splendid Thing...

2004-10-18T17:29:00.000-07:00

We love pizza, we love politics, and sometimes we love people...or do we? We throw the "L" word around like its a common everyday thing we do. It's just like the Braves losing in the playoffs or a liberal politician flipping pancakes at a breakfast shack... it happens all the time. The tragic reality though is that true love rolls around about as often as Haley's comet. We have hideously cheapened the meaning of this virtue and tragically devastated its value.
Thomas Paine said, "What we obtain too cheap, we esteem too lightly: it is dearness only that gives every thing its value. Heaven knows how to put a proper price upon its goods..." In our daily lives we say we "love" so many things without ever giving thought to what it means. Our "loves" are many, and our loves change on a whim. Our "loving" relationships constantly go sour...BUT WHY, if we are such advid lovers does this occur? After all we "love" so many things we should have all the kinks worked out right? Unfortunately, we have replaced the heavenly prototype with our own earthly provision. Our concept of love is based on how "nice" and "sweet" someone else is. We fear being alone so much, that it is no longer important who we are with, just so long as we have someone. We sell ourselves short by settling for a cheap imitation.
Occasionally though true love occurs. In a godly marriage is the pinnacle of love, but more importantly it is symbol of the love of Christ for His church. Though His bride crawls down the aisle dirty and disgusting Christ stands with open arms to recieve His bride. That is the heavenly picture, and its pricetag is great, but its reward is unfathomable.
In our relationships the price of love can be great--it will most certaintly cause others to be angry, frustrated, or completly hostile towards us, but its reward is sweeter. The genuine relationships that result and the lasting lifetime impact that we gain restores love's value and promise heavenly rewards.

Executive Phenomenon

2004-10-14T20:52:00.000-07:00

Each day a Sun Microsystems executive waltzes into his posh office and sits down to begin another day of decision making, which the success of his company hinges on. Each afternoon he jumps on his laptop to check his email, see how company stocks are doing and....BLOG. For someone reason the word Blog just doesn't fit in with that list. It's not something the "big guys do."...or is it?
This strange new adventure called blogging is no longer just a forum for ambitious amatuers with nothing to do but wax eloquent in the cyberspace cloud. Blogging is rapidly growing into what may become a method of communication as viable as email in the next decade or so. and it's not hard to see why. Company's can rapidly distribute info to hawkish investors on new products, stocks, or the future. Newssites can employ blogging effectively as well. Instead of boring day to day editorials news companies can use blogging to have up to date online discussions on current happenings...creating a massive all out blog-o-rama. But with all this executive talk don't forget the little guy. The computer guy, college goober, and contemporary gunior (yeah I know I misspelled "junior"... play along) makeup the heart of the blogging world. It is our mindless ranting that provides those hysterical late night laughs, pearls of profound wisdom, and everyday talk that thrills our feeble minds.
As I add my name to the many in the blogging world I hope you will enjoy this site. Whether your the man in the corner office, or your career is as lively as Howard Dean's political aspirations, dive in, and enjoy as we go under the cover to explore not only the madness but the mind and the mayhem of a United States Marine!... Let the Posting Begin.