So Cool...Yet So Useless

I don't care much for useless knickknacks, but I got to admit this is pretty cool.

Global Warming and God's Will

In previous post I wrote about Greg Craven's series of videos on global climate change, and I found one of them is called "God's Will". In it he tries to tackle the viewpoint of global warming is God's will, therefore we're powerless to stop it. He gave an illustration of how we would take the matter into our own hands if the scale of pollution is small, and challenged us to think where should the line be drawn between human's doing versus God's doing as the scale gets bigger.

Craven handled this viewpoint respectfully. However, he made some unmentioned assumptions:

1. He presented those who believe global warming is God's will thinks since there's nothing we can do about it, hence we don't need to do anything.
Maybe some people do think this way. However, just because it's God's will doesn't mean we shouldn't do anything about it. It's like saying it's God's will for my roof to leak, therefore I shouldn't go fix it. It's God's will for the crops to grow, but we still have to water and fertilize them. God regular carries out His will using us as His tool.

2. That if the size of the problem is small it's all men's doing.
God has EVERYTHING to do with EVERYTHING. If I did good on an exam, it is because I studied hard. But God is the one that deal with all my brain cells that remember what I read, and deal with how my eyes see and transmit the information to my brain. He kept my heart beating and alive so I can study. He didn't put me in an accident on the way to the exam. And the list goes on and on.

In summary, I think nothing falls outside of God's will, but we should still take actions as God can work through us.

How It All Ends

Oregon high-school science teacher Greg Craven's series of videos on global warming, How It All Ends, has made him somewhat of a celebrity. His simple argument, "the risk of not acting on climate change far outweighs the risk of acting," and his earnest and quirky appeal, has won him more than 4 million views worldwide through YouTube and other video posting websites.

But this is not what this blog entry is about. While the video title is "How it All Ends", it really doesn't tell us about the very very end. The ultimate end. The Grand Finale. The fat-lady-sing type of end.

To learn about that end, you have to read this.

Yes, that's the "final-showdown-between-God-and-Satan" end. To oversimplify, the following will happen:

1. Satan will be defeated once and for all: (not a big surprise, isn't it?)
"and the devil who had deceived them was thrown into the lake of fire and sulfur where the beast and the false prophet were, and they will be tormented day and night forever and ever." Revelation 20:10

2. Those whose names are in God's Book of Life will dwell with God, where "He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.” Revelation 21:4

3. I hate to do a "fire and brimstone", but the fact is:
"But as for the cowardly, the faithless, the detestable, as for murderers, the sexually immoral, sorcerers, idolaters, and all liars, their portion will be in the lake that burns with fire and sulfur, which is the second death.” Revelation 21:8

If you think thank goodness I'm not a murderer, a sexually immoral...etc. Well, think again. In Roman 3:23, "for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God". You can also read this again. (Yes, I actually finished reading that book, though I kind of just browse through the last few chapters. Got to go reread it again some time.)

The good news comes in the very next verses in Roman 3:24-25:
"and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, whom God put forward as a propitiation by his blood, to be received by faith."

So if you don't believe the Bible is the Word of God, or if you believe you need or can add something other than Jesus work on the cross (good works, religion...etc.) to bridge the great gap of men and God, use the logic of Mr. Craven: the risk of not acting far outweighs the risk of acting. With an open mind, read the Bible from beginning to end. Don't take verses out of its context. Go do some research on how the Bible come about, pray for guidance. Don't believe something just because someone in authority tells you. Find it out for yourself. If the Bible is wrong, the most you'll lost are some time and energy. But if what the Bible says it's true, the worst-case scenario for you will be extremely far worse than those from global climate change.

Be a Historian

I need to include myself more in photographs with my boys.

Ever since my first baby is born, I am rarely in the pictures since I'm usually the one with the camera. I had no problem with this, it's the babies that are the cute ones anyway. But then I imagine them all grown up, and wonder what their father and I used to look like. I know when I look at my own baby photos, I am always intrigued by how my parents used to look, how they used to dress and more. I wonder what their daily lives are like, what are their hopes and dreams? I want to document that for my children.

Documenting our own lives is not being self-absorbed. It's the history of our families and a way to take inventory of God's blessings. Imagine your great-grandchildren reading about the people and events that shaped you and how God had worked in our lives.

So go ahead, take photographs of yourselves, write stories of your lives, however mundane they seem like. They'll be treasures for generations to come.

"Only be careful, and watch yourselves closely so that you do not forget the things your eyes have seen or let them slip from your heart as long as you live. Teach them to your children and to their children after them." Deuteronomy 4:9

Happiness Vs Joy

My personal definition for "happiness" and "joy" are very different. In a nutshell, I define "happiness" as a a emotion feeling of well-being and contentment, which is affected by external circumstances. Mostly from shallowly things such as enjoying good food, or for me, being able to eat without interruption from my children.

I think most people would define "joy" as something like "really happy by something more meaningful" such as having a good relationship with our families, or being able to help someone in need. But for me I believe true and lasting joy can only comes from God. And it would not waver due to any change of circumstances, because God is the only one sure thing that never change.

Our delight in God, His attributes and His promises are what gives us everlasting joy. When Paul was in prison, I'd bet he's not happy about it. Yet his letter to the Philippians, written in prison, is full of joy. The words "joy" or "rejoice" are used fourteen times!

John Piper, an gifted preacher and writer, wrote "...only God can create joy in God. This is why the old saints not only pursued joy but prayed for it..." How true! My prayer, to quote Mr. Piper's book When I Don't Desire God, is this:

"And thus give them more joy than all the gladness that the world can give. And by this joy in Jesus Christ, fit them to love and serve and sacrifice. And by this joy, with which they bear their cross, Lord, cause the earth to know what you are truly worth."

The Dilemma of Play

Almost everyday you can find news on young children being kidnapped, or die in accidents because the caregiver "looked away for a second." But then there are regular articles like this one, saying children's social development and creativity suffers when they don't have enough unsupervised outdoor free play.

So what's a parent to do? Let them roam free in the neighborhood and risk being abducted and/or get into a serious accident? Or keep an eye on them everywhere and stunt their growth?

A Wise-Cracking God?

The extent of God's holiness is way beyond our comprehension. There is nothing and no one even can compare to Him. We're not on a same playing field as God. We have to be very careful not to humanize God, because that's not the God of the Bible.

"'For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,' declares the LORD." Isaiah 55:8

That's why I'm disturbed to see even Christianity Today, a Christian publication, gave the movie Evan Almighty a glowing review. In the movie, God is played by Morgan Freeman, who instructed a modern day character, Evan Baxter, to build a ark just like Noah of the Old Testament. Well, the fact that the moment God revealed Himself to Evan, he didn't fall flat on his face with reverence, fear and worship is enough for me to give it a very thumbs-down. So the movie has positive elements such as family value, but it depicts our almighty God merely a perfect human with super powers. That, my friend, is beyond unacceptable.

Focus On the Family's media review site, Plugged In, also gave this movie a positive review. But the founder of the ministry, Mr. James Dobson, put in his personal comments at the end that nailed my sentiments. You go, Mr. D.

Go Ahead, Hug a Tree

Christians aren't exactly known for our efforts in protecting the environment. That is a shame because we should be good stewards of what God has given us, including the planet Earth. We all can, and should, make more effort to reduce, reuse and recycle. It's a healthier, simpler, and more frugal lifestyle that preserve God's creation for future generations.

3 things you can do RIGHT NOW:

1. Switch to homemade household cleaners. You can find tons of recipes online using simple and inexpensive ingredients such as baking soda and vinegar. Try these from The Green Guide.

2. Buy used items. With summer approaching, garage sales are around every corner.

3. Get a dryer rack and air dry at least some clothing items.

"God saw all that he had made, and it was very good." Genesis 1:31

Know Thy Creator

I think most people have had disastrous relationships. It can be family, a friendship, or a "what-was-I-thinking" romance. However, there's one relationship that's like no other.

Since the creation of men, God intends to be in a personal relationship with His people. In the Old Testament, He walked and talked to Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden, He met with Moses in the Tent of Meeting and Mount Sinai, and He dwelled in the temple built by King Solomon. Then prophet Isaiah wrote about the promise of a child named Immanuel (Isaiah 7:14), which means "God with us".

In the New Testament, "The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us." (John 1:14). Jesus, the Son of God Himself, came and walked intimately with His disciples. After Jesus' resurrection and ascension, He sent the Holy Spirit, which is the third person of the Trinity, in live in those who believe in Him.

No other relationship is more important, nor satisfying like this one, for no one is perfect, holy, and never-changing like God. By studying and meditating on His word from the Bible, by constantly going to Him with praises, by presenting our petitions, and by seeking His wisdom in everything we do, we can get to know our Creator, our Almighty God. Not only to know ABOUT Him, but to know Him intimately in our hearts and enjoy His presence in our lives.

And this is ONE relationship you'll never, never regret.

Election Questions

Let's say in a Presidential election, it is Candidate A versus Candidate B. With Candidate A, there are 5 values that I disagree, whereas with Candidate B there are 3.

If I vote for B, hoping if he/she wins at least I'll get 2 values into the White House, does that mean I endorse the 3 values that I don't agree with?

Or should I not vote at all, risking A carry all his/her 5 values (or lack of) to be the leader of this country?

Mothers' Designer

Once again, I am amazed.

The design of the relationship between mothers and their children are brilliant. I'm amazed at how God leads mothers to instantly fall in love with their newborns, and how He provides them with milk, so the babies can eat AND bond at the same time. How efficient is that! And how babies feel most secure as they navigate the world in their mothers' arms. As rewards for the sleep-deprived, God brings on those sweet baby smiles to melt our hearts.

Even after they've grown into toddlers, they remain cute to minimize our head-banging on the wall, when for the nineteenth time, they insist on pouring the milk themselves and end up pouring half a gallon of it on the floor.

On this Mother's Day (and everyday after), let's remember the creator of mothers and children, and give Him the praise and worship He so deserve.

Consequence of a Late Nap

As I laid down with my son in his bed, waiting for him to fall asleep, I had nothing else to do but to let my tired mind wander:

1. No way I'm letting him nap past 3 p.m. tomorrow.

2. Wouldn't it be great if I can somehow project a book or the Internet on the ceiling so I can read? But then I have to have special glasses so only I can read them and not distract the boy.

3. The chocolate-covered almonds downstairs are definitely calling my name. Hmmm...

4. It's be so cool for mothers to have a special power that can cause their children to fall asleep at will. Nah, maybe not. Too easy to abuse this.

5. This bed is quite comfortable. I'm so thankful that me and my family have a warm bed to sleep in, instead of sleeping on a cold hard floor in a hut, or a sleeping bag in a soldier's tent in Iraq, or a bunk bed in a prison cell. I pray someday my children would realize how blessed they are.

Outlaw Country

Imagine if you broke a law, for example, you robbed a bank. I'd think if you didn't get caught, you'd thank your lucky stars and go enjoy your loot. You wouldn't think of getting together with other bank robbers and march on the streets and demand rights.

But wait! This is America! Apparently if you gather enough people that broke the same law, and have politicians that have no backbone, not only you won't get punished for breaking the law, but actually you might get reward for that.

This is the case for illegal immigrants. How can we maintain respect for the law, when we allow them to scoff at it? Before the bar of justice, shouldn't we all be accountable for disobeying the law?

But what about compassion and mercy? After all, as Christians we are called to love our neighbors. America does have legal immigration available, even though the system is flawed. We can also have aid and missionaries sent to countries in need.

I know this issue does not have an easy solution, as the problem has never been properly dealt with and has grown into a monstrous size. But the basics, like securing the borders, discouraging companies from hiring illegals residents, and offer help to fight poverty in poor countries, can at least slow down the population growth of the illegal residents.

As a legal immigrant, I filled out all the paperwork, paid all the fees, and lined up at the crack of dawn outside the immigration office building. I say it's all worth it. I consider my US citizenship a blessing from God and I'm very thankful for it. Let's pray that we can find ways to balance justice and compassion, quickly.

Scary Rhymes

I'm surprised by how many popular nursery rhymes and songs have questionable content. The obvious one is the nightmare inducing Rock-a-Bye Baby:

Rock-a-bye baby, in the treetop
When the wind blows, the cradle will rock
When the bough breaks, the cradle will fall
And down will come baby, cradle and all

Then we have Hush Little Baby, perfect for raising materialistic children:

Hush, little baby, don't say a word,
Mama's going to buy you a mockingbird.
And if that mockingbird don't sing,
Mama's going to buy you a diamond ring.

To teach baby boys how to treat their future wife, we have Peter Peter Pumpkin Eater:

Peter Peter pumpkin eater,
Had a wife and couldn't keep her!
He put her in a pumpkin shell,
And there he kept her very well!

While I doubt reading or singing the above rhymes to babies will damage them mentally nor emotionally, I'm not taking any chances. I'm sticking with Wheels on the Bus, it's my son's favorite anyway. Although it might damage me mentally if I have to continue singing it 50 times a day.

My Snapshots

Today I took my baby C.F. for his six-month check up. In the doctor's office, his two-year-old brother C.S. behaved like a perfect child. He waited patiently and quietly, even threw in a few kisses for his brother to woo the nurses. The staff was impressed. And I was proud. Not only of my son, but of my own parenting.

Ten minutes later in the parking lot, everything changed. The baby was crying hard, C.S. was screaming and refused to get into the car. I noticed an older man watching, silently judging me, I'm sure.

If you randomly take snapshots of my day, each one can draw a very different assumption of what kind of a mother I am. Snapshots don't tell the whole story. But I too have times when I subconsciously make snapshots judgements. They can be based on all sorts of presumptions and stereotypes. A mom giving candies to her children in a grocery store? Bad mother. Men checking their Blackberries on weekends? Workaholics. Children screaming in the parking lot? Can't their mother control her own children? Wait, that was me.

"Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother's eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye?" Matthew 7:3

On Forgiveness

According to some friends that recently celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary, one of the most important elements in their long happy marriage is forgiveness.

How wise is that! As imperfect human beings, in all our relationships, sooner or later, we're all going to wrong and be wronged. There can be no healthy relationships without forgiveness.

Forgiveness is hard to give. Sometimes hold out on forgiving is a revenge, to hurt the ones who hurt us. Sometimes it is self preservation, as forgiving would seem like we're taken advantage of. Sometimes it is our way to enforce justice, as we decide whether the offender deserve our forgiveness.

The truth is, forgiving is less about us and the offender, but much more about us and God. Jesus illustrated it perfectly in Matthew 18:23-35, about a man whose debt was forgiven greatly, but turned around and harshly dealt with one who owe him much less. We all have sinned greatly against the most Holy God, and yet He offers forgiveness through His son Jesus Christ. It is only right that we forgive others as well.

Forgiving is to cease resentment. It doesn't mean absorbing the offender's responsibility. It's not a feeling, it's a decision. It's given unconditionally. It's not contingent on the offender's apology nor repentance. It's an act of love. It's being obedient to God. It heals and reconciles. It doesn't have a quantity limit, even if it's the 849 times he left his shoes all over the house.

"Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors." Matthew 6:12

Whole Again

Today, on a rare outing to the grocery store by myself, I put in Jennifer Knapp's CD Lay It Down. It was a nice change from the classical music and children's songs we listen to at home.

It gave me a lump in my throat, as I heard the song Whole Again, the part that goes:

If I give my life
If I lay it down
Can you turn this life around
Can I be made clean by this offering of my soul
Can I be made whole again?

In the wake of the Virginia Tech tragedy, this song reminds me of the hurt and brokenness that we all experience to different degrees. Whether it was caused by sins of our own or others. Whether it happened in the past, present or future.

But there's hope. When we confess to God that we can't do this life by our own power and strength, when we surrender to God and ask Him to take over our lives, He will give us rest, heal us and yes, He will make us whole again.

"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light." Matt. 11:28-30

Parenting the "God's Way?"

There are many controversies on parenting issues, even within the Christian circles. I always get wary when books claim their way of parenting is the "God's way", and being dogmatic about it rather than presenting it as wisdom. I believe the Bible has given us principles on parenting, which is to discipline, guide and love them. But applications can vary from culture to culture, family to family and child to child.

The quote I recently found that is most useful is from Debi Pearl. Ironically, I disagree with many of her ideas. On breastfeeding and co-sleeping, she wrote on her web site:

"Learn all you can from all points of view and then throw it all out and do what works best for you. Relax. Don’t chose sides and fight it out. It is not Bible doctrine. In departing from someone’s system you need not feel guilt or pride."

I like to add that parenting should be done on our knees, praying constantly for wisdom for parenting, and regeneration for our children. Because while we can modify behaviors, true transformation can only come from the Holy Spirit.

Pink and Blue

The other day I was talking away to my husband, who was trying his best not to fall asleep. All of a sudden his face light up and exclaimed:

"Oh wow! You're going pink on me!"

Say what? He was referring to the video marriage conference we went to, Love and Respect. On the topic of how men and women operate differently, the speaker talked about how women (pink) sometimes talk in spiderweb. That is when we start talking about a point, but takes lots of detours before finishing it. (watch the video, it's hilarious!) Boy! I was totally doing that!

The major points of the conference:
• Men and women operate very differently.
• A wife needs to feel love and a husband needs to feel respect.
• Without love she reacts without respect, and without respect he reacts without love, hence the Crazy Cycle.
• Both love and respect should be given unconditionally.
• Whoever is more mature should be the one to break the Crazy Cycle.

I had a few "a-ha!" moments at this conference, and while this theory will not save every marriage, I believe it can change many for the better. I personally have witnessed how the Crazy Cycle can destroy a marriage, leaving both parties bitter, angry and hurt.

I still "spiderweb" when I talk, but I'm more aware of it now.

Farewell, Johnny Hart!

From John Deering, editorial cartoonist

It's Been a While...

...but here's a few things from chapter 3 of The Holiness of God by R.C. Sproul, plus research I've done to confirm the information.

• The word "holy" in Hebrew is kadosh. Its primary meaning is "to set apart."
• God is absolutely above and beyond us.
• Holy is not just one of God's attribute. Holy is God. Everything God has and do is holy. On the same thought, NOTHING is holy without God's consecrating. To call anything else holy is idolatry, since it'd give common things the awe, respect, worship and adoration that only God rightly deserves.

An interesting information I found, is that orthodox Jews are taught to revere God so much that they avoid writing the full name of God because of the risk that it might later be accidentally defaced. What a big contrast to the present day, when people freely use God's names in vain.

R2-D2's New Job

R2-D2 is delivering mail now?

To celebrate the 30th anniversary of Star Wars, the post office is rolling out mail boxes that are designed after R2-D2. So very cool! But I wonder how quickly they'd be stolen by crazed fans.

Zoom Zoom Zoom!

During high school my friends and I were always interested in doing various personality tests, even though I knew most, if not all of them are just for fun and nowhere near accurate. I think it was just a futile attempt to get to know ourselves better.

I still remember a test about what do we feel go by the fastest, a day, a week, a month or a year. I don't, however, remember what the results were supposed to indicate.

I'd think being a stay-at-home mom, time would go by slow. But since Colin was born, days, months, and years have just flew. Once in a while there'd be pockets of time during the day that seems a bit slow, but generally I never run out of things to do in the house or with the boys. After the time spent supervising mealtimes, nap times and most recently, "pooping-in-the-toilet" times, there really isn't that much time left.

Sometimes it freaks me out a bit when I was reminded how time just zoom by. I mean, in a few years I would be 40! 40 should be the age of my parents, not me! But as I think further, I realize I really have no ground for complaint about my amazing journey called life. I might want to go back and undo a few stupid things I did, but every step I took was part of God's plan to make me who I am today. And no plan is better than God's plan! I'm just so thankful of the grace of God that brought me to where I am today.

AUGHHHH! Can't Look!

Continuing on the book The Holiness of God by R.C. Sproul. By the way, he just given a message in a conference for pastors that is straight out from this chapter. You can read, listen and even watch it here.

My thoughts on chapter 2:

The Bible has many places gives us glimpses of just how holy God is. Throughout his life, Moses has numerous encounters with God. In Exodus 33:18, he asked to see the glory of God, and God replied "you cannot see my face, for no one may see me and live." (Exodus 33:20) But God did let Moses see His back. And just from that Moses' face became so radiant from reflecting the glory of God that he had to put a veil on his face, so not to terrify everyone else. (Exodus 34: 29)

God is SO SO MUCH holier than humans that we can't even handle looking at a face that has just looked at God's back. So how are we to face Him with our spotty records of our lives? How can we expect to spend eternally with Him in heaven?

"we have been made holy through the sacrifice of the body of Jesus Christ once for all." Hebrews 10:10

"... we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus," Hebrews 10:19

The Holiness of God

I believe that knowing the extensiveness of God's holiness is crucial to christian living. Otherwise, we wouldn't understand how necessary Christ's work on the cross is in order for us to gain access to heaven. After all, why should we deserve hell since most of us have never kill nor sell drugs. So we have lied a little, harbored bitterness a few times and being prideful once in a while, that shouldn't be enough to go to hell, right? Well, if we consider that our God is perfectly holy, then it would make sense that even a tiny speck of sin against Him would send us hell bound.

I want to have a better understanding on the holiness of God. And then my husband got this book from the library called, incidentally, The Holiness of God! The author us R.C. Sproul and I'm going to write what I learn from it as I read it since I tend to forget.

So far what I've learnt:
Chapter 1:
• God is so holy that "Holy is His name" Luke 1:49.
• How we understand the person and character of God affects every aspect of our lives. If God is the Creator of the entire universe, then it must follow that He is the Lord of the WHOLE universe. No compartmentalizing would make sense, including science, economics, and yikes, politics.

Keith Green's 7 Years of No Compromising

Seven years. That's how long Keith Green lived as a Christian before he died from a plane crash 25 years ago. But God used him to impact lives of many, and to this day, his legacy continues to inspire thousands of people to draw closer to God.

My husband and I watched a documentary of his life story, and we were touched by how he held nothing back to live out the Gospel. He could live a very comfortable life making lots of money from his albums and concerts. Instead, he cancelled the contract he had with a record company so he could give away his albums for free, and he refused to charge anything for his concerts. He took in anyone in need, to a point that his house is so full there're people sleeping in their garage, even when he was raising a young family. All his songs and messages points to God, and urged people to live out their faith. He had truly lived out the title of his 2nd album: No Compromise.

Now I need to ask myself: What do I hold back? What have I compromise in my faith? Am I willing to be used by God in anyway, or only when it's within my comfort zone?

Come Sail Away

Ever since I wrote the post titled The Grand Illusion, I can't help but think of the band Styx's album of the same title. Ok, so some of their lyrics are comparable to bad poetry from a high school student, I got to admit songs like Come Sail Away sticks with me and I would not hesitate to belt it along with the radio in the car.

Boy, now I'm nostalgic.

Awwwwww...how cute!

Apparently, devotion to your city's sport team unite people (and statues) together.
(Tribune photos by Nancy Stone & Kuni Takahash)

The Grand Illusion

Ever since I became a parent, my desire for control is even more futile as ever. I can't make my child poop, fall asleep, nor learn a certain skill at a certain time.

The truth is, we hardly have any control at all. We thought we do, but we really don’t. I mean, can you control how your heart beat? Can you control how your brain cells work? Can you control whether tomorrow you'd still have a job, a house, a family?

Oh boy. I just open the can of worms of free will/responsibility of our own actions versus God's sovereignty. Bottomline: they both exist. How? Don't know.

"Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God!
How unsearchable his judgments,
and his paths beyond tracing out!
"Who has known the mind of the Lord?
Or who has been his counselor?"
"Who has ever given to God,
that God should repay him?"
For from him and through him and to him are all things.
To him be the glory forever! Amen." Romans 11:33-36 (NIV)

Do this! My Way! NOW!

I don't think I'm a control freak. But it does bother me in various degrees when people make different choices that I don't think it's the best, or when they don't do things exact way and timeframe that I want.

I have to be careful not to micromanage. To do so I would overstep others' boundaries, not to mention that'd be extremely annoying. The real issue here is the lack of trust in God. Real lasting change can only comes from God. I need to put trust in God to change the hearts of others and mine, in His own time, IF that's what He planned to do.

"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." Romans 8:28 (NIV)

Now we just have to make sure we're "those who love him." :)

The Driving Force Behind Apple

A must-see for any Apple fan is a video of Steve Jobs, pre-black-turtleneck-and-blue-jeans days and with all of his hair, at a keynote in 1983 showing for the first time ever the famous "1984" ad. He was so smug and the audience went so wild it's like being in a cult.

Reading some stories of Steve Jobs from people who worked with him, I believe one of the reasons Apple's products are so beautiful and work so well is his demand for excellence. For him, good isn't enough and it doesn't worth doing something unless it's done great. This may sound quite harsh but he brings out the best work from the people around him.

I should demand more of myself. Higher expections can bring growth. But I'm not sure how much I should expect from my children. Too low can stun their potential, while too high will be discouraging. Praying for wisdom is a must for parents!

Not Our Choice to Make

It's the 34th anniversary of the Roe vs. Wade decision that legalized abortion. I have so much to say on this issue but I'd keep it short (relatively) this time.

I've yet to find an remotely strong argument against life begins at conception.

It's not about women's right. It's not about telling women what do to with their bodies. It's not about limiting women's choices. It's about life that's totally different from the women's own. The unborn baby/fetus has a different DNA right from the beginning.

I do want to extend sympathies to those who got pregnant by means they didn't consent. However, two wrongs don't make a right.

The government should increase awareness on support for unwanted pregnant women (and men). The public, including teens and children, should be educated on the development of babies inside the mother's womb. And teaching on taking responsibility on your own actions will help too.

I had an ultrasound on my second baby at 9 weeks after conception. And I saw AND heard his heartbeat. At 9 WEEKS ONLY! Stopping that heartbeat intentionally is anything but murder is really beyond me.

Wow! They're In!

(Tribune photo by Jim Prisching)I'm happy for them, really. My hubby is so excited. I saw some photos of fans and wow, so devoted. But the real test of devotion is who's going to fork out big $$ to fly to Miami for the game. I read that tickets to the game alone will cost thousands of $$.

By the way, quit the tradition of pouring tubs of drinks on the coach already. Someone can get very sick.

AAAAAH! She's In!

First of all, I don't agree with her views on social issues, and possibly more when I have time to check out her positions.

Is it just me or does she often appears arrogant and mean? She's a very smart lady, no doubt about it. But you can display your intelligence and confidence without appearing arrogant, a la Ms. Condoleezza Rice. Now there's a smart, confident AND cool and collected lady I'd like to see continue working in the White House.

It'd be interesting to see how Hillary and her spin doctors try to soften her image during her campaign.

I have a feeling the '08 Presidential election is going to be a "who'll-do-the-least-damage type of vote". Yikes.

The Best Part of Waking Up...

...is cat poop in your cup?

Apparently for as high as $400 a pound, you can buy a delicacy coffee called Kopi Luwak. It's made from coffee beans that has been eaten by some cat-like animal. When they come out from the other end, humans collect and process them.

I'm not kidding. Check it out.

Am I a “Christian?”

I'm cautious in calling myself "Christian". Unfortunately, there are people that associate that with people who hold signs that say "God hates homosexuals", or it reminds them of their hypocritical uncle who go to church on Sundays but lies and cheats.

And then there're also people that call themselves "Christians", but what they believe or do is nowhere near what the Bible teaches.

Since the word "Christ" is in the word "Christian", obviously being Christians has everything to do with Christ. I would define a Christian as a disciple/follower of Jesus Christ.

So what does that entail?

According to Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary, "follow" can be to engage in as a calling or way of life, to be or act in accordance with and to accept as authority.

So to be a disciple/follower of Jesus Christ, I believe one has to:

1. Study His words/work to grow in knowledge of Him. (i.e. the Bible)
2. Grow a personal relationship with Him. (prayers, not only know God in your head as intellectual knowledge, but know Him in your heart as well)
3. Do what your Lord says, regardless of how you feel.

Of course the above points will need further dissection. The fun has just begun.

Definitions

Different people interpret different words or phrases differently, since our experiences shape how we view so many things. I believe this is one of the major causes of miscommunications. For example, person A tells person B "I'll call you SOON." For person A, "soon" means a few days, while person B's version of "soon" is a few hours. Miscommunications often lead to conflicts.

I'm cautious in using words that often have different meanings for different people. Exploring how I define things is important for me, it helps me to know clearly what I believe and why I believe them. It also helps to avoid being misunderstood.

I'd post them as I tackle them.

Blink

Today is one of those days when all of a sudden my 2-year-old boy seems much much older than, like, two days ago. I didn't realize how tall he became, nor how well he can talk. How did I miss them? I guess I'd better never blink again.

What're Your Distractions?

(Tribune photo by Jim Prisching)It's the football playoff season. My husband is excited to have his team going for another round. If they win one more game they'll be going to Superbowl.

I'm no sports fan, but I do enjoy watching a game or two occasionally. I can't quite understand how some people can live and breath sports. They take the results of games personally, even though they are not employed by or associated with the team in any way. Is it because they have nothing else in their life that is as exciting? Is it because they need escapes from their daily life so much and so badly? Do they have any other people or causes that they can root for as much as "their" team? Unless you or someone you know work for the team, I think sports are really just entertainment. It's really just a game. Chill out.

But it's not just sports. It can be any hobby. Some people spend lots of time, money and energy on cars, and I spend way too much money on cameras and too much time on the internet. All these are fun and fine, as long as they don't interfere with nor distract us from our real purpose in life, since even the best photo ever of my kids has no eternal value.

Now you DO know what your purpose in life are, don't you? (Surprise! It's not about you!)

Moo

I realized that not only I feed my kids. I, myself, is a food item. Part of me, anyway.

While some days I feel like a cow, I think nursing is the greatest idea for new mothers. It provides food for the baby, strengthens the mother-baby bond, and it's convenient and FREE! Whoa, God thought of EVERYTHING.

And did I mentioned it's FREE?

Winter Wonderland...

...in the Seattle area? While the East coast is warm and toasty?

I remember one early morning in my college days in Iowa, I was walking home from one of my "photo marathon" in the darkroom. It was a twenty-minute walk and the snow was just starting to fall. All was still and quiet except for a few city workers. I have yet to re-experience the beauty and serenity of that morning in the snow.

The Apple Love Fest

I'm not tech-savvy enough to be a geek, but "woooo-ing" and "ahhhhh-ing" while watching the MacWorld Keynote Address should put me closer to become one, right?

The Death of Saddam

I know this is old news, but there're thoughts that I need to get out of my system.

The death of Saddam. Does he deserve it? I'm pretty sure. Is it going to make a difference in the development of peace and democracy in Iraq and other Middle East countries? Probably not, at least not in the near future.

So what does this accomplish? For one thing, he needs to pay his penalty for his order of torturing and killing of thousands of people. Is his penalty fits the crime? Well, his death is probably less painful than many of his victims, however, I don't think the justice system should get down to his level.

There're people in the world that rejoice in his execution. I'm not one of them. I think his life is a tragedy. And for people who filmed, posted, and watched his execution, what you did make me sick.

I'm sad by the whole thing. I'm sad by what Saddam has done. I'm sad for the people and countries that he so ruthlessly destroyed. I'm sad that there are so much darkness in his life. I'm sad for a life that lives constantly under fear for betrayal. I'm sad for a life that is defined by insatiable appetite for absolute power and hate. I'm sad for the fact that real evil exists in this world. I'm fearful for him for what God's wrath has installed for him.

I wonder if he ever truly loved someone more than he loved power. I wonder if he was born in a different family, or if he has a different life circumstances if he'd be different. I wonder if anyone of us was put in his situation, if we'd turn out the same as he did.

I know "sin" is the correct, but very general answer of why he did what he did. But I'm eager to search for some other answers so that I can believe there's good even in a person like Saddam. I wonder what God's purpose for him was, and how does that going to fit in the whole picture of the human history.

With these thoughts written, my mind is now a little less crowded. A few more adoring looks at my sleeping sweet baby boy and I'll be back to my usual cheerful mood.

Wasting Time

I wonder before the invention of the television, internet and video games, what people waste time doing. Since we don't have a TV, (one of the best decisions we made!) browsing the internet has been my way of flushing valuable time away. I hope I'm at least learning something in the process. By the way, do you know it takes glass bottles 1 million years to biodegrade? And with plastic soda bottles, apparently they almost never will. See? These are the things I'd otherwise never knew if not for my time on the internet.

Job 1-2

My husband and I want to read through the whole Bible together in 2007. Today's reading is Job chapter 1-2.

The book of Job probably one of the books of the Bible that generates most questions. The premise is basically about this righteous man Job, and Satan tempted him by destroying everything he had, even his children, and inflicted horrible diseases on him. Yet Job remained godly and never said a bad word about God, even as his wife said to him, "curse God and die!" Wow.

The questions/debates for this book generally involves God's versus Satan's part in human suffering. Though I read Job before, I look forward to read it again and see what God wants to teach/show me this time.

The verse that stands out to me today is what Job said after he learnt that he lost all his processions and children:

And he said, "I came from my mother's womb, and naked shall I return. The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord.” Job 1:21 (English Standard Version)

I think one of the most useful things to know in life is that God's the giver of all good things, and the God of the universe has every right to take away whatever he has given to us, for whatever His purpose is. "And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose" Romans 8:28 (ESV) It doesn't make losses easier, nor lessen the suffering. It does, however, gives us hope and peace to carry on.

Only a parent would appreciate...

... the sound of a baby pooping. As a nursing mother, I wonder if my 2-month-old is eating enough. So when I hear him poop, I get reassured that there has to be input in order to have output, plus I'd know that his digestive system is working!

Back to "normal"?

So today comes January 2nd, the day when most people go back to work. While I'm sure it's wonderful for most people during the span of holiday season from Thanksgiving to New Year, to spend times with family and friends, eat big meals and party, it's kind of a relief to go back to the routine.

Today would be a good day to celebrate Christ's birth, instead of December 25th. While I love all the festivities of Christmas: the decorations, the gatherings, the songs, the gifts exchanges, even the cheesiest Christmas sweaters, they're too much distractions from the true meaning of Christmas. If Christians pick another day to celebrate Christ's birth, and on that day, we'd worship, pray and meditate, then on December 25th everyone can say all the "happy holidays" they want. Even "merry Christmas" sounds shallow to me. I don't recall in the Bible Paul greeting his fellow Christians "merry" nor "happy." How about wishing each other peace and joy?

Not that I can rid Christmas off my mind any time soon. My 2-year-old, in all his cuteness, still belts out " O Come, all ye Faithful" everyday.

A New Year Resolution

While I'm not sure about the purpose (why wait till a new year to make resolutions?) and effectiveness (how many years I've resolute to work out?) of new year resolutions, it does kind of give a stonger sense of a new beginning. So here I am, joining the ever growing trait of babbling to virually nobody. Hopefully a year from now, as I look back my entries, I can thank God for a year of growth, becoming a closer follower of Jesus Christ, a better servant for God, a more decent human being.