Frank's Ballad

2009-01-13T18:50:00.000-05:00

I'll go ahead and call it.

Time: 6:51 pm.
This thing is dead.

2008-09-06T22:51:00.001-04:00

I really suck at this.

2008-04-14T08:12:00.005-04:00

The Macabre

What is it about the macabre that intrigues and fascinates me so much? Is it the atmosphere? Is it the darkness? Is it the look? Or is it, in fact, the blood and sometimes gore?

I don't think it is, and I hope it is not the blood and gore. I would be a little disturbed if it were so.

I'm asking because I bought Sweeney Todd this weekend, and so thoroughly enjoyed it. It's not the fact that I enjoyed it so much as it is that I am so drawn to films like it.

I have been a fan of Tim Burton's for many years, Pee Wee's Big Adventure anyone? I think almost all of his movies are great, but the only two I own are Sleepy Hollow and Sweeney Todd. It seems to me a little odd that I choose the two movies with gore to own.

It's not just that. Ever since I was a kid I've gravitated towards dark, bizarre, oft times bloody films and stories. I was a big fan of George Romero's zombie movies. Well, until I realized they were his way of promoting his left wing ideals. I loved Sam Rami's Evil Dead series, with it's dark humor. I still think The Texas Chainsaw Massacre was a great film. I own it and the two remakes, but none of the sequels. Of course I own other films that are similar in one way or another.

As I was watching all the extras on the Sweeney Todd discs I started to wonder about it. It's been on my mind somewhat ever since.

On the redeeming side Hayoa Miyazaki is one of my favorite film makers. His films are usually directed at kids. I wouldn't consider any of his movies macabre. His films usually don't even have any real bad guys.

Mr. Keith

2008-03-08T22:34:00.013-05:00

This time I have a good excuse
No, I mean it

The past few weeks have been a big trial for me.

It started with a pain in my right side. I went to a clinic near my office. I then spent the next 10 hours in the ER. The clinic said I had a very high white blood cell count. The ER told me that it's probably my gallbladder.

In the next couple of days the cold I caught at the ER sets in. I go see my DR.

Then I go see a gastrointestinal specialist. As soon as he comes in, he says I probably have an ulcer. He then says he has no idea why the ER would have even mentioned my gallbladder. the next day they stick a camera in my stomach to confirm the fact the I do have an ulcer.

A number of days later I go back to my doctor because I have some congestion, a very bad cough, and my left ear is bothering me. The ear problem turns out to be a major infection that I am still,two weeks later, dealing with.

No, I'm not looking for sympathy. I just wanted to actually have a good reason for taking so long to write anything. So, there you have it. That's my story, and I'm sticking to it.

God bless,
Mr. Keith

2008-02-12T11:37:00.002-05:00

FairTax: the Truth Answering the Critics
By Neal Boortz & Congressman John Linder

Today, it comes out today. We need to make sure that this book gets to number one on the New York Times Bestsellers List this first weekend. I'm going out and buying at least one copy. With more being bought later.

And little bit from Boortz website today.
"EAT – PRAY – LOVE
That's the competition. Some Oprah-designated book called Eat, Pray, Love. It's been number one on the New York Times bestseller's list for eons .. and that's the book we need to beat with 'FairTax: the Truth Answering the Critics'. The book is in the book stores today ... and if – a big if – we overtake that Eat, Pray, Love thing it will surely make news and give the FairTax a huge push.
Now's the time. No more procrastinating. Sales between now and next Monday are the key. Bookstores, Amazon.com ... wherever. If you want to give a big push to the most thoroughly researched piece of legislation ever to be placed before the congress of the United States; if you want to be part of the biggest transfer of power from the government to the people in our history; if you want to boost our economy, make the U.S. the world's number one tax haven for business ... you know the drill ... then get your copy this week. Once you're armed with the information in this book the political class can no longer demagogue the FairTax with their absurd misrepresentations. The facts will be out there."

We have a huge opportunity to tell the Government that we are sick and tired of them taking our hard earned money at gun point. So, that they can build bridges to nowhere in Alaska. So, Harry Reid can have another building named after himself. And so, they can give it to people that refuse to go out and get a job. Trust me, I know how insensitive I am.

Hmm, but that one sounds a little familier. "From each according to his ablility. To each according to his need." Doesn't Socialism sound sweet.

The Fair Tax is a consumption tax. Which means you pay taxes when you buy things. Not when you get your pay check and see FICA and his friends.

While you're at it. Buy The Fair Tax Book and read it as well. It took me six hours read this, and that included the time it took to change planes a couple times.

God bless, and help make April 15 just another spring day,

Mr. Keith

2008-01-25T13:31:00.000-05:00

Saying good-bye to Sierra,
before I ever met her.

I know what you're thinking. "That's a bit cryptic. Isn't it?"

Well, at the church I attend we have these home groups. They used to call them Life Net, but the name was changed, and I don't remember what the new name is.

The family that leads the one I am a part of, Lenard & Charity Samanie, had a little girl Monday evening. Her name was Sierra. There were complications with her heart during the pregnancy. When she was born, she went directly to ICU.

The last update I received on Tuesday was that she was doing really well. In fact, she got to spend a couple hours in her mom's arms.

This morning I had two emails from one of Charity's relatives. One was from Thursday and the other this morning. The one from Thursday said, "They believe these are her final moments. Please pray for grace and strength, this family has been through so much in the last few months." The one from today said this, "Thank you gain for all the prayer and support of the Samanie family. I will have more details about service arrangements this afternoon."

Needless to say I'm a little torn. I've known this family almost as long as I've lived here. I am very close to them.

Keep the Samanie's in your prayers as they deal with this.

God bless,
Mr. Keith

2008-01-17T08:01:00.001-05:00

Short Attention Span Theater!
The story of my life.

(Thursday 01/17/08)

I think this is my fourth or fifth attempt at writing something new for this blog, hence the title. I kind of want to do a "year in review" sort of thing, but I'm really not sure where this will end up going. So...

I started last year kind of the same way I have many, in debt. I'm sure most of us do that on a regular basis, but a few months in I decided that I was done with being a "slave to the lender". Not to long after that I started listening to this guy out of TN, Dave Ramsey, and everything started to change.

I've made the decision to get out of debt many times before, but until this last year I never did a whole lot about it. Well, last month I paid off the last of my credit cards. In a nine month period I paid off $5,500.00, or there abouts.

Now on to my car. I owe a little more on that then I did on my cards, but I'm already paying a pretty good size chunk of money towards that. The plan is to pay it off by the end of this year, at the latest. I should be pretty close to having it done by July or August. If not, completely paid off.

Then it's on to the house, and yes I have the beginnings of a plan for that as well. Although, I'm probably going to be in a different house in three to four years.

Paying off the cards hasn't really sunk in yet. I'll start noticing it more as each month passes, and my bank accounts increase.

(Monday 01/21/08)

I spent the last two full weeks of the year playing Superintendent. In that time I had two days off, Sunday the 23rd and Christmas day. The only reason I didn't work Christmas was because the owner of Metro Walls, where I work, went out there. Some advise, if you have a job that would usually take 34 days to complete, don't schedule a 14 day build time. Needless to say, I'm cured of wanting to be a Project Manager or Superintendent.

I'm not complaining. It's one of those life experiences that I wouldn't trade for the world. I just want it to be a one time experience.

The biggest disappointment of the year was when I realized that my mom didn't get to see any of us kids during the holidays. That was the first time since any of us were born.

We did get to see her this year. I went out there back in July, and she was out here when Johnathan was born.

It was very hard for me when I realized it. So, I decided that this year I'm going to make sure she will be with at least one of us this year. I told my sister and brother that I would fly her where ever she needed to be to see one or all of us at Thanksgiving or Christmas. I'll be able to do that because of the whole getting out of debt thing.

Well, that's it for now.

God bless,
Mr. Keith

2007-12-13T11:09:00.001-05:00

Give me just a little bit more time. I'm getting to it.

Mr. Keith

2007-10-19T09:35:00.000-04:00

This is such a cool idea. 10-20-30! Let the Virus Begin!

OK, this is not my idea, but it is great. My friend Lydia posted a blog about running across a blog by one of her friend's mom writing about a blog with this question. "Quick: What were you doing ten, twenty, and thirty years ago?" The author then answers the question about herself, and then adds this challenge.
It's an experiment to see how many degrees we can separate (kind of like Kevin Bacon, only it's relevantblog). Even if you're not tagged, don't be crabby, just take up the baton and run with it. Here's what I ask: Have folks post their 10-20-30s, and then link back to the Mother Ship (http://www.relevantblog.blogspot.com) or write a comment here, saying where you heard about this experiment and sharing where you blog. This isn't to build my empire, it's to find out how far we can expand the blogosphere. After all this talk about blog tours, it got me thinking. How many people can one blog potentially reach?

Now, why would a right-wing, sarcastic cynic like me join in this obvious ploy to bring about some sort of collectivism here? Which as everyone knows brings about socialism, and then, eventually communism. Oh, come on. I'm only joking. Don't be so sensitive.

It's simple. I enjoy living in the past as much as the next guy....I mean, I enjoy reminiscing about my history. So, here goes.

10 Years Ago: I Lived in San Antonio, TX in an apartment with my dad. I was working for Artistic Counters as a fabricator, a great job. I went to as many concerts as possible; Vigilantes of Love, Fold Zandura, Love Coma, Shot Heard 'Round the Block, The Choir, MxPx, etc. My love for traditional music was being born. I cooked almost all my meals. I helped out in the youth group at Trinity Church, middle school mainly. My favorite movies were Blade Runner, Monty Python and the Holy Grail, and Apocalypse Now. I started searching out and watching cult films. (I watched A Clockwork Orange at the Youth Pastor's house. They were out of town of course, and I was house sitting for them, sorry, Scott.) I was getting ready to move to Tampa, FL.

20 Years Ago: I was in seventh grade at Omar N. Bradley Middle School in San Antonio, TX. I was introduced to hardcore by my friend Chad, Black Flag. I had never heard anything like that before, and I couldn't figure out whether I liked it or not. I had a mullet of sorts. At school, I was a "metal head", and at church, I was a good preachers kid. I liked whatever the people around me at the time thought was cool. None of my friends at school new that Stryper was my favorite band. I didn't care about passing or failing at school. At least, not until report cards got home. We had a Chow named Husky. I miss that dog.

30 Years Ago: I was two years old. Needless to say I don't remember anything from then. We had either just moved or were getting ready to move from San Hose, CA to Lilburn, GA. On the way, we went off the road into a ditch. I asked if we could do it again.

So, there you have it. Now, go out and do the same or don't. I couldn't care less, but if you do. Let me know you did, and let her know.

God bless,
Mr. Keith

2007-10-15T10:26:00.000-04:00

There is something to be said about modesty. "It's a good thing."

Mr. Keith

2007-10-11T06:57:00.000-04:00

Will some one please put Jimmy in a home?

I used to laugh when Jimmy Carter would criticize the President. Of all the living former Presidents, he has the audacity to complain about job performance.

This is the man that brought our country to it's knees in front of Islamic Terrorists. The man that almost destroyed our economy with huge inflation. The man that caused the gasoline shortage with his "price controls".

I know people that owned gas stations in the 70's, and they lost everything they had because of old Jimmy and his "good intentions".

Like most Georgian's, I'm embarassed. Now, I don't doubt that he thinks he's doing good, but at this point it's clear. He has no one around him that ever says, "No."

Gad bless,
Mr. Keith

2007-09-11T10:36:00.000-04:00

Screw Loose Change

Well, it's a blog, http://screwloosechange.blogspot.com/. The focus is on exposing the stupidity and ignorance of the film Loose Change. A film by two useless 9/11 "truthers". That's the main focus anyway, but they're more then happy to go after any of those losers.

I found it this morning. Since it is the sixth aniversary of 9/11. I started thinking that there would be a ton of those, what's a more tackfull way of saying jackasses? That there would be a huge gathering of "them" in NYC today. Ranting and raving about how the Towers were brought down with controled demolition.

Now, I have enough construction expirience, that I have no problem seeing through the falsehoods of what they say, and I'm not saying that they're lying. Just that there are plenty of fools, morons, and liars feeding them this crap.

They have plenty of links to other blogs and websites that exist just to expose this stuff. Including the site Popular Mechanics has setup to bring the light of science and engineering on the subject, http://www.popularmechanics.com/technology/military_law/1227842.html one of my favorites.

This is one way I'm remembering the victims of those Islamic Terrorists. Since there are already so many sites and blogs out there that do such a great job of countering this propoganda. There is no need for me to try to explain anything.

Only the stupid and the ignorant believe this, and you can't fix stupid. Educate yourselves, or shut your damn mouths.

God bless,
Mr. Keith

Piss off prisonplanet.com, infowars.com and any one that takes Alex Jones seriously. He is the biggest peddler of these lies out there, and he's has to be too smart not to know the truth.

2007-09-04T10:24:00.000-04:00

OK, I'm sorry that this is late.

The "incredible" news that I was hinting at. That I was so excited about. That I almost couldn't hold it inside. That I'm so surprised that I didn't let it out.

Do you really want to know? I mean it is family stuff, after all. I don't know if it will even mean anything to you.

Alright here we go. Last Friday, August 31, 2007, was my brother's 31st birthday. That is not the news. On that day, my brother and sister-in-law were at the hospital. They were there because the doctor felt they needed to induce labor for my new nephew.

Johnathan Douglas was 8lbs 4oz and 20 1/2" long. That is about the coolest birthday gift a man could ever get.

Finally a little more testosterone in that house. Thank you, God.

God bless,
Mr. Keith

2007-08-24T07:41:00.000-04:00

I have incredible news.

One week from today.......I'll tell you then.

God bless,
Mr. Keith

2007-08-07T07:56:00.000-04:00

An update for Thursday, December 21, 2006.

You may recall a post I made back on the above referenced date, I wrote about going out and finding an individual, family, or organization to help out during the Christmas season. You might also remember that I found a family in my church the was going through a very difficult time. If not, then here is a reminder.

--"I found a family last night at church that are in some financial need. The husband just had most of his stomach removed because of cancer, and the prescriptions they need are extremely
expensive. So, I've decided to help them how I know I can."--

Well, about three weeks ago I got some encouraging news. A few minutes after I got up to Children's Church Yolanda, the wife, came in with her son. She grab me and a couple of the other adults that help out. She said she had some good news. On the Thursday before her husband had a doctor's appointment to check on the progress of treatment vs. the cancer.

Well, to make a long story short. There is no cancer to be found in his body at all. It's gone.

God is good,
Mr. Keith

2007-08-02T09:17:00.000-04:00

I have a quick story to tell you.

I was working on a bid this morning, and I had a question for my boss on it. While I was waiting for him to get off the phone I saw two women and a little boy, about two to three years old, walking in the neighborhood our office is located in.

As they were walking in front of the office the little boy fell down. Like most kids that age he looked to both of the women to see which would run to his aid. When they looked back and then kept moving the boy started crying.

The younger woman, I assume was his mom, turned back, and as it appeared to me told him to get up and keep walking. The little boy got up, still crying, and walked to her, still crying. Once he got up to her she took his hand, and they kept walking.

What's the big deal? Why would I tell you that story?

Well, because it was so good to see a mom that didn't run to the rescue, but basically told him to buck up and be a boy. She's raising him to be a man. Not to be a spoiled kid that has have mommy and daddy come running every time there is a problem.

I've written about this before. How I get so frustrated with kids growing up safe away from getting hurt.

When I was a kid if I came running in the house screaming and crying. If I wasn't bleeding every where then my mom would ask what the big deal was. I remember at four getting hurt and looking for blood or a bruise before crying. Because I knew my mom would tell me to get over it if I wasn't really hurt.

Because of that my brother and I grew up to be men. We're not some "metro sexuals", trying to get in touch with feminine our side, "Oh, I cracked a nail, and I can't find my facial scrub" little girls. We both love to work hard physically and mentally. We're not afraid of getting hurt. And we're not going to run to the emergency room every time we start bleeding everywhere because of a cut.

We grew up rough housing, fighting, tackling, climbing trees, jumping on trampolines without a net surrounding it for safety. We got stitches, casts, minor concussions, black eyes, skinned knees, and we were told to walk it off, grow up, be a man or at least a boy.

"Smear the Queer" was one our favorite games as kids, and we always played with guys much bigger and older than us. They didn't have enough sense to go easy on us either. Of course if we did really get hurt or started crying, which rarely happened. They would check us out and take a break to give us some time to recoup. As soon as we did, we'd want the ball. (Oh yeah, for all you politically correct idiots. "Smear the Queer" has nothing to do with gay bashing. If you don't know, look it up, and quit whining.)

All this to say. Boys should be raised to be MEN.

God bless,
Mr. Keith

"We're a generation of men raised by women." -- Tyler Durden -- Fight Club

2007-07-18T13:38:00.000-04:00

It's 2:30 Wednesday afternoon, and I haven't slept since Monday night.

The plane landed @ 12:15 am this morning. I got home @ 1:30 am. Then I lay in bed until the alarm went off @ 5:30 am. I'm so tired, but I'm not sleepy. I hope and pray that I fall asleep quickly tonight.

Oh yeah, CA was great.

God bless,
Mr. Keith

2007-06-14T08:52:00.000-04:00

So, I was thinking...

(This part was written on Friday 06/15/07.)

Four times in nine years. Now, that's impressive. I refer of course to the guillotine. Sorry about that, I was thinking about T Bone Burnett.

I mean, I refer of course to the Spurs. I remember when they won the first one. A lot of sports commentators were saying that it was a fluke because that year the NBA played a short season. Now, they're claiming a dynasty, go figure.

Yesterday afternoon Ruth Bell Graham, Billy's wife, died. I had heard an interview with him earlier in the day where he said he couldn't see his life without her. They had know each other for over 65 years. I know he is surrounded by family, but my heart really hurts for him.

How do atheists deal with a loss like that. Even with faith in God, that would be absolutely devastating.

I'm praying for you Billy, and to quote The Swirling Eddies "I love you, Billy" from the song Billy Graham ('89).

(Now, it's Monday 06/18/07.)

Well, my dad and grand-ma have officially moved to GA. So, my brother, his wife and the girls drove out for Father's Day. We hung out at my dad's house for a while and watched Golf. Then we went to Ted's Montana to eat. A good time was had by all.

A couple of side notes - I've never been big on watching sports on TV, and I will never pick up clubs and play Golf. For some reason I enjoy watching Golf on TV. That MMA and NASCAR. I am a Southern boy after all.
Ted's Montana is the only thing Ted Turner has done that I think is great. Bison has got to be my favorite meat. So, any restaurant that specialises in it is good in my book.

My brother and his wife are expecting their third in late August or early September. It's going to be a boy. Their thinking Jonathan, after my dad's dad. My dad and I are just happy that it'll be a boy. There is not enough testosterone in that house. Bekah is three and Andrea is one. Needless to say, they will have their hands full.

I'm finally going back to California, to see my mom. I haven't been out there in about two and a half years. Now, I have seen my mom since then. It's just not been out there. The evening of July 12 is go.

Well, I guess that's all for now. I was wondering whether this stuff is even being read by any one. Well, I shouldn't say any one. I can think of a couple of people that I'm sure do read it, but I'm not sure keeping this thing going is really worth it. With how rarely I sit down and write anything, and how rarely any one comments. Maybe I'm just on an ego trip, and I'm just whining for attention. It's happened before.

For those that do, I thank you for take time out of your day to waste reading about my little life and opinions.

God bless,
Mr. Keith

p.s. Am I scatterbrained enough for you?

2007-05-10T07:53:00.000-04:00

What the...?

What do you do when you hear some of the worst news you've heard in a long time? Besides putting your face in your hands saying, "Oh, God. How could this have happened?" Then setting everything you're doing aside and praying for those involved.

2007-04-03T10:01:00.000-04:00

April 15 is coming OOOOOOHHHHH!!!!!

I hate this time of year. I am getting my taxes done this afternoon. So, naturally I'm feeling a little relaxed. The problem is that this time next year it's the same old crap. Unless...The Fair Tax Plan is passed.

In a few minutes, U.S. Sen. Saxby Chambliss (R-GA), U.S. Rep. John Linder (R-GA), U.S. Rep. Tom Price (R-GA) and Ken Hoagland of Americans for Fair Taxation are holding a news conference and rally this morning. They are announcing reintroduction of the Fair Tax in the U. S. House and U. S. Senate. I'm hoping and praying they get allot of play out of it.

This is the best tax system I've ever read about. It's a consumption tax that replaces all other taxes. The only time you pay taxes are when you buy things.

Think about it. How much did you pay last year? By the way if you have a job you pay taxes. Even if you got a refund, you still paid taxes last year.

There are a couple ways to find out about it. go to http://fairtax.org/, or you could find a copy of The Fair Tax Book by Congressman John Linder and Neal Boortz.

If this system were to pass The United States of America would be the largest tax haven in the world. That means every company in the world that can afford to move here, will. Talk about a booming economy.

God bless,
Mr. Keith

2007-03-12T15:06:00.000-04:00

I have no title for this

I started reading Sex was God's Idea in November, and I finished it at the end of January.

It's not a hard read at all, but Thanksgiving and Christmas, out of town family and driving kind of messes up a man's routine. The week of Christmas alone I put about 400 miles on my vehicle, and just driving to and from my brother's house, which is only 130 mile round trip.

The book is great. It's very clear and concise in its message. It's not just some Christian saying don't have sex before you get married because the Bible says so. He actually gives statistics on the actual, possible consequences of premarital sex. He actually gives the references to the stats he gives. I whole heartedly recommend this book for any young person to read.

There is a link to the myspace page that has information on aquiring the book. In fact, you can read the book in the blog section if you would like.

I am currently on a bit of an American History kick, especially Southern History. My sister gave me a copy of The President, the Pope, and the Prime Minister: Three Who Changed the World by John O'Sullivan, which I just started, and a Barnes & Noble gift card.

With the gift card I bought The Politically Incorrect Guide to the South by Clint Johnson. Which I read in a couple of weeks. I'm so glad I read this book. If you're from the South, and hate the we are so often stereo typed as stupid, backwards, cousin marrying, moonshine drinking, racists, read this book. If you think that we Southerners are all of those things, then read this book.

Once I finish The President, I plan on reading alot about the War Between the States. (Actually, after I read Rediscovering God in America by Newt Gingrich.) I have a small list going, but if you have any recomendations let me know.

For some reason, I have this desire to know what really happened in the past. Not just what we were told in school happened. I want the meat. I want the flesh and bones of the past. Maybe it's because "those that don't know the past are doomed to repeat it."

I want to know my History, our History. The History of the greatest nation in the world, period.

God bless,
Mr. Keith

Two in one day. Things are slow this week here at the office.

2007-03-12T13:58:00.001-04:00

Yee-freakin-haw

I just found out that my good friends Pat and Laura Steele, back in San Antonio, are expecting a baby. I had to let you know.

God bless,
Mr. Keith

p.s. Look Lydia, it's waking-up.

2007-03-02T12:09:00.000-05:00

There is something that's been on my mind lately.

I'm not completely sure why I've been thinking about this so much, lately. I have some theories, and I know part of the reason. It's the biggest regret of my life. It's not something I've done, but something I didn't do.

Usually, when I think about it, it's no big deal. It comes to mind, and I think "I really should have followed my instincts and done it." Other times however it really gets under my skin, and it bothers me a great deal.

Get to the point! I know, I know.

A little background on this thing. The Summer before my senior year of high school I was approached by a Marine Recruiter. I really didn't know what I wanted to do with my future. So, we set up an appointment to sit down and talk about The Corp.

We talked for probably two hours about the potential benefits if I joined. I was still considering collage at the time. He told me about his own experience in boot camp, and how he got to where he was at that point in his career, and where he wanted to go. I told him about my Grand-father's service in the Army-Air Force during WWII. Talk talk talk.

After the presentation and subsequent conversations the only problem, or maybe concern is better, I had was that, I knew that at that point in time I would not have been able to handle boot camp physically. Even though I would have had a year before joining. I didn't think that I would be in the right physical condition after a year either. He said that it would not be a problem.

You see, the recruiting office was in the same strip center as a World's Gym, and that office had a deal with World's Gym that would let an underage recruit join the gym until they went to boot camp. The recruiter also let me know that he or one of the other recruiters would be more then willing to help get into the proper shape to handle basic training.

I told some of my family and a couple of friends about my thoughts on joining The Corp. One person, who was very important to me and whose opinion I greatly valued, said "You a Marine?" Then laughed in my face. Like an idiot I let them influence my decision. I called the recruiter and told him I was no longer interested.

I regret that more then anything else I've ever done, or not done.

PBS has been showing a great documentary about the Marines. It's actually very positive. So, that's part of it.

I know that my life would have been completely different then it has been. Maybe I never would have joined Youth with a Mission. Maybe I would have never lived in Florida, or moved back here to GA, but maybe I would have.

If I could go back and change one thing that would be it. Part me wants to do it, now.

I hoping this helps me get ahead this. Any thoughts?

God bless,
Mr. Keith

p.s. Did notice how many times I said really in this post. I mean, really.

2006-12-21T10:11:00.000-05:00

Isn't that the best example of a good uncle? Or is it just sickeningly cute?

My niece Andrea had strep throat and needed comfort. So, being the good uncle I am I did just that.

Well, Christmas is just a few days away, and no I'm not anywhere near ready for it. I'm still not ready for Thanksgiving.

All I have left to get, as far as gifts, is one for (now don't tell any one because it's supposed to be a secret) my Brother-in-law, and I'll be doing that after work.

With that out of the way...

What are we doing to help those in need this year?

I found a family last night at church that are in some financial need. The husband just had most of his stomach removed because of cancer, and the prescriptions they need are extremely expensive. So, I've decided to help them how I know I can.

I've made more money this year then I ever have. God has blessed me greatly this year, and because I know He blessed me so that I can bless others I am blessing this family.

Go out and find some one to help out this Christmas. There is bound to be some one in your Church or neighborhood or at work that is in dire need this year. Find them it's not hard to do. There are organizations that exist for the sole purpose of helping those in need.

"Well, I don't have enough to do anything."

Start with what you have. People in real need are appreciative of anything.

Go to a Dollar store, or for you in England a Pound store, and get some little toys for kids. Cook some food and take it to a family. Give a little extra in the offering plate, and make sure you note to the church that it is for those in need.

You'll find that if you try just a little bit, you will find some one.

Matthew 7:7 "Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you."

So, why don't you ask for some one to help this year? Helping some one else will be the greatest gift you give and receive this year, trust me.

God bless and Merry Christmas,

Mr. Keith

p.s. I'm listening to Boortz again. As if you care.

2006-12-20T06:45:00.000-05:00

Holy freakin' crap!

I just realized that it's the end of December, and I haven't posted anything.

Isn't that interesting?

God bless,

Mr. Keith

2006-11-28T07:33:00.000-05:00

I've been slacking. I know, sorry. So, I'll just be random.

It's the Thanksgiving Christmas season, and for some reason I've been working on a lot of bids recently. Of course I'm happy about it. The more bids we put out, the more opportunities to make money, and we've been awarded quite a few jobs. Maybe we'll have a million dollar month before the end of the year. That's my excuse, take it or leave it.

This weekend I bought "Sound of Melodies" by Leeland, and I am unable to listen to anything else right now. How do you go from constantly listening to Zao's "The Fear is What Keeps Us Here" and Flee the Seen's "Doubt Becomes the New Addiction" (Yeah, I listen to this stuff and work in Children's Ministry. Oh, come on you've got to love it.) to Leeland? I don't know.

I had a great Thanksgiving. My dad came down and brought his mom with him. My brother brought his family out. We went to my Uncle's in Cattersville. There were ten adults and seven kids, six of them were under five. It was a blast.

On Saturday, I received a book in the mail that a Youth Pastor friend of mine down in Boca Raton, FL wrote. It's called "Sex was God's Idea", and is targeted towards teens. After all he is a Youth Pastor. I read all the preliminary stuff and the first chapter last night. I'll tell you more about it when I finish it, but so far it's great. If your not patient enough to wait for me, his myspace is http://www.myspace.com/cornerstoneuth. There is a great promo video there. If you've lived a sheltered life, be warned. It's very up front.

Christmas is less then a month away, and I still can't wrap my head around the idea that Thanksgiving just passed.

I'm probably going to cause some problems. Christmas is on a Monday this year, and we are having it at my brothers in Flowery Branch. Well, I'm not going out there until Sunday afternoon. Because those kids in Children's Church are my priority, but maybe I'm seeing the glass half empty. Maybe I should just leave for my brother's right after work on Friday so as not to cause problems.

I've stopped listening to Neal Boortz since last Wednesday. I'm not sure why. It's not like he's changed what he is saying or anything like that. I've known ever since I started listening to him where I agreed and disagreed with him. In fact I'm still reading Neal's Nuze, and I'm still getting and reading the Boortz Blast Newsletter. I guess maybe...I don't know.

Well that's it for now.

God bless,

Mr. Keith

p.s. Try to go see "The Nativity Story" sometime this season. After all, Christmas is about the birth of Christ. No matter how hard leftist organizations try force us to forget. http://www.suntimes.com/news/metro/151601,CST-NWS-nativity28.article

2006-11-08T09:14:00.000-05:00

There is good news and bad news.

The good news: the Republicans lost.

The bad news: the Democrats are in power.

Let's face it. The Republicans betrayed those that put them in power. "The Contract with America" is what put them in power 12 years ago. They have not fulfilled it in any way shape or form.

The Republicans are supposed to be the party of small government, small spending, and national security. The Government has more then doubled in the last twelve years. The only other President you can compare Bush to as far as spending is LBJ, bridge to nowhere any one? He only vetoed one sending Bill.

National security is interesting. On the one hand, we are going after terrorists, yeah Bush. On the other hand, we have more illegals coming into this country every year then ever before. There is almost no border security on the American/Mexican border.

"A New Direction", that's what the Democrats call it.

Unemployment is at 4.4%, last I read. So what's the new direction, there?
interests rates have just dropped again. What's the new direction, here?
The economy is rapidly moving forward. How about here?
People are holding on to more of the money we work for. I don't need to ask about that direction.

Do I need to go on? Ah, yes the war. We can either fight them there or fight them here. What do you want to do? Remember, in World War II there were single days where we lost more men then we have lost in the years we've been in this war.

We know that under the Demicrats, the Government is going to continue to grow, taxes are going to increase, amnesty is going to be demanded, and "redeployment" (cut & run) will be the talk of the town. Socialism as usual.

We need Newt get in there and kick some Republican asses, and remind them who they are supposed to be.

They have two years of, most likely, Naci Pelosi as speaker. Two years to sit down and figure out how they screwed-up, and how to fix what they have broken.

They brought it upon themselves. They got what they deserved.

Well, at least the Communist Party USA is happy. http://www.cpusa.org/article/articleview/783/1/56/

This country is in God's hand, and I'm not worried. He sets up Governments, and brings them down.

God bless,

Mr. Keith

2006-11-01T10:36:00.000-05:00

I doubt any one that knows me or has read any thing on this blog before needs me to explain my views on what John "the poodle" Kerry said the other day.

In case you missed it: "You know, education--if you make the most of it, you study hard, you do your homework, and you make an effort to be smart, uh, you can do well. If you don't, you get stuck in Iraq."

And now that ____ expects us to believe it was a jab at the President and his policies.

Every one that voted for him for any reason in the past should be so proud of themselves. That ____ has never supported our troops. He has voted against every bill put in front of him that give them better body armor, better equipment, strong vehicle armor, ect.

"If you remember I voted for it before I voted against it." Do you remember that one?

This man, and I use the term lightly, is a liar plain and simple and a traitor in my opinion.

I'm rambling I know, and I'm sorry, but I love our military.

God bless,

Mr. Keith

If you can speak, thank a teacher. If you speak English, thank a serviceman.

2006-10-26T09:50:00.000-04:00

If you still think that government education is a good thing....

In Gwinnett County Government Schools in Georgia have recently changed the way they grade students from kindergarten to fifth grade. They have decided to reverse A-F system and drop the F.

"A" is now the worst and "D" is now the best. This is a quick break down of the letter grades:

A = Anarchy
B = Bother
C = Cooperative
D = Democracy

When they go to Middle School the system changes back to what most of us grew up with. I guess they're trying to prepare the kids for when they actually have to start working to get "the grade". So, when they're failing they don't feel bad.

And let's be honest here. To most teachers, since they're union members, democracy means socialism. After all union members, for the most part, believe it is some one else's responsibility to take care of them. The union or government should set wages, provide healthcare, paid holidays...........

If you love your kids find a way to either home school them or get them in a private school. Make the sacrifices needed. They will be better off, and thank you for it later.

I for one will not allow my children, when I have some, to go to a government school. If I have to work three jobs, live in a trailer, and drive something that just gets me from A to B. That is exactly what I will do.

God bless,

Mr. Keith

My intelligence is in spite of my education, not because of it.

2006-10-23T22:09:00.000-04:00

Save the cheerleader. Save the world.

Heroes is my favorite show on TV right now. I am freakin' hooked. I can't wait for the next episode.

I just had to let that out.

God bless,

Mr. Keith

2006-10-18T11:40:00.000-04:00

What the Hell is wrong with the people in this country?

The topic of conversation on Boortz at 11 am changed to banning games like tag, dodge ball, and others from government schools. Why are they doing this?

With tag the problem is that kids are running around "touching" each other. No, I'm serious. In fact some lady called in saying that she doesn't allow her kids to play it because she's worried younger kids will think that hitting is ok.

Another reason they use, I'm sure it's used for all games like these, is they are afraid a kid will get hurt and the school will be sued. I can't really blame them for thinking that. If the laws would be changed so that the loser pays. Then we wouldn't have so many frivolous lawsuits.

If we continue allowing things like this to happen, then this country will become a "nation of candy-asses", to quote Boortz.

If you actually believe this is a good idea. Please don't have kids, because we don't need any more cry babies in this world.

If you love your children. Encourage your children to play tag, dodge ball, climb trees, ect. If they get hurt then they get hurt. It's life people.

Some of my favorite memories have instances of where I was injured. LIFE HURTS.

It ticks me off so much that people actually buy into this crap. Don't raise your kids to be pansies.

God bless,

Mr. Keith

2006-10-13T07:41:00.000-04:00

Blessed are those who have been persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven. Matthew 5:10 (NAS)

A couple of weeks ago I was listening to Michael Medved. He's a radio talk show host. Anyway, he started talking about a documentary that, at the time, was going to be released soon called Jesus Camp. A film that is about some kids that go to a church camp in Missouri. It apparently has a negative bent to it.

No, Medved is not a Christian. He is Jewish, and understands that Christians and Jews are spiritually linked. He is a defender of our faith, as well as his.

Two Sundays ago, 10/01/06, in Children's Church during praise and worship. Our Children's pastor got up and talked to us about this movie coming out that CNN had done a report on called Jesus Camp, and of course those reporting were more then willing magnify the negative.

The other day, I was on a website watching movie previews, and watched the Jesus Camp preview. It hints at the fact that the documentarians see Evangelicals as indoctrinating kids and comparing us to Islamofacists.

After watching the preview, I started looking for reviews. I ended up at rottentomatos.com. It was so disheartening.

"One knows exactly where the first Christian suicide bombers will come from."
"On one level, the documentary "Jesus Camp" is all about evangelical Christians keeping up with the terrorists. One overweight Pentecostal teacher, concerned that her "fat and lazy" students weren't playing with grenades and bomb belts by the time they were 5, seems to wish they could grow up to become suicide bombers."
"As the adults in the movie apparently favor anarchy, intolerance of religions other than their own, and war as a means of achieving their goals."

Those are some of the quotes I read in different reviews. For some reason it seems that today when those who aren't Christians hear "God's Army" they're thinking military. When I was a kid no one ever freaked out when hearing that term. I guess people understood that we Christians fight a spiritual war not a physical one.

I felt terrible that so many people see us Evangelicals as nut jobs that hold to intolerance and hate as being fundamentals of Christianity.

Just because we see certain things as sin, does not mean we hate those that do it. Put simply, we would have to hate ourselves. I know the sins I deal with daily. One thing I grew up hearing, and still hear parents tell their kids today, is "Love the sinner, hate the sin".

My interpretation is treat people the same. No matter what they do. Show love to all men and women.

I don't know, maybe I'm rambling.

Now what does all that have to do with the Bible verse at the top of this post?

After reading all those reviews talking about how dangerous people like me are. I remembered an incident from about a year ago. I was working for a company that did water, fire, storm, and mold remediation and reconstruction. One of our day to day duties was steam cleaning carpet. I was cleaning a small church with one of the other techs. I was talking to the pastor about how often Christians are seen as terrible people for merely believing that the Bible is the Truth, and then trying to live as if they believe it.

All of a sudden I had a brilliant thought. Actually I know it was divine inspiration. The verse at the top came to mind. I realized that this is exactly what Jesus said would happen.

So, take heart if you are being persecuted for ours is the Kingdom of Heaven.

God bless,

Mr. Keith

2006-10-09T10:19:00.000-04:00

I just have one statement, and then one question.

Hurricane experts are saying that this year's hurricane season is pretty much over.

So, what happened to the worst season ever, global warmistas?

2006-09-29T17:06:00.000-04:00

LINKAGE
You know...Links...Over to your right...There you go.

Trinity Chapel (my home church) - If I need to explain this one, then.....

Fair Tax, blah blah - Fairtax.org is the website for Americans for Fair Taxation. It's where you go to find out about the fair Tax. I'd explain what that is, but it would take a little while. Go to the website or get a copy of The Fair Tax Book by Congressman John Linder and Neal Boortz. It's great for the country and even better for the citizens.

Woven Hand - My favorite band in the world, and current project of David Eugene Edwards. You know, he was the front man of 16 Horsepower. Never heard of them either, oh. Go there to find out about them.

Facedown Records - It's a record label, duh. Lots of great hardcore and metal as well as some punk. Bands like ALove for Enemies, No Innocent Victim, Flee the Seen, Blood Lined Calligraphy. Most of the bands come from a Christian perspective. It's where Figure Four, Comeback Kid, and Sinai Beach all started at.

Neal Boortz - Co-author of The Fair Tax Book, and syndicated radio talk show host. He's a Libritarian, look it up yourself, extremely sarcastic, as well as brilliant. And he's from Atlanta, GA. Yes I realize some of you won't give him a chance because he's from the South.

Dr. Mike Adams - He's a criminology professor at the University of North Carolina Wilmington and is a regular columnist for Townhall.com. A former liberal atheist, now conservative Christian. He writes a lot of satirical columns. Another sarcastic and brilliant mind.

Lydia Pistol's blog - She was in the middle school group at the church were I first got involved in youth ministry back in TX. She was 12 when I first started teaching. That's 13 years ago. She's now married and living in London. A definite must read for me. It's an American perspective on marriage, faith, and the things of life...in England.

Pistol Family blog - It's really just another place for Lydia to post stuff. I guess some people can't be satisfied with just one.

Chris Coggin's blog - Another old friend from TX. He and his wife are starting a church in Austin called the Austin Project. There is only one blog on there right now, but good stuff.

My myspace - Do I really need to explain? If you'd like to know what 16HP and Woven Hand sound like. I always have a video from both on the right side of my page. Under "About me" and "Who I'd like to meet". You can also see how Sandrine stalks me. Oh, crap. Don't tell her I said that.

Enjoy.........or don't.

God bless,

Mr. Keith

(Aren't you glad I didn't right anything political or religious in this post. Well except to explain what some of the links are about.)

2006-09-27T06:51:00.000-04:00

How did I get here?

Well, that's an odd question. Is my memory so bad that I can't remember my past?

The last couple of days, for some reason, I've been thinking about what I'm doing, enjoy, and where I live as opposed to where I thought I would be in my younger days.

Take for instance the fact that I'm in children's ministry. I'm in Children's Church on Sundays during our second service. We have kids from third grade to sixth grade, as well as some kids in middle and high school helping out. I teach sometimes, do offering, get them ready for praise and worship ect.

What's so odd about that?

Up until three years ago I had been involved in youth ministry since I was 16. That's 12 years of my life. Just two years ago you couldn't convince me I'd be doing anything other then youth ministry.

When I was in middle school I felt like that's what I was supposed to do, and at 16 I sat down with my Youth Pastor, Barry Young at the time. We talked about what I felt God was pushing me towards, as far as ministry. He told me to talk with the Assistant Youth Pastor, who was over the middle school kids, and see if there were things I could do to help out, as long as it didn't interfere with any high school stuff going on. So, I did and I thought that's what I'd be doing for most of the rest of my life.

I never thought I'd be doing this, but here I am.

Another thing is the music I listen to. I mostly listen to Alt. Country, Americana, Hardcore, and I guess what they call New Metal.

When I was 12, that's 1987, I was introduced to Black Flag. I think the hardest stuff I had heard up until then was ACDC. So, when I heard Black Flag I was a little shocked. I sat there and listened and I couldn't figure out if I liked it or not. Of course I told my friends I thought it was cool, or maybe I said it was "rad". The next few years I got into stuff like Slayer, Anthrax, Morbid Angel, Minor Threat and so on. It seemed to me the harder and faster it was the cooler it must be.

Now, at that point in my life I figured by the time I was 25 I would have grown out of that phase. Here I am at 31, and the two CD's I'm playing the most right now are Zao's "The Fear is What Keeps Us Here" and Flee the Seen's "Doubt Becomes the New Addiction". Both are, of course, quite hard with Zao being on the fast side. It seems the older I get the more I love hard music.

There are other things as well. Isn't it interesting where we thought we were headed when we were younger as opposed to where we are today.

I always heard growing up that God moves in mysterious ways. I guess this was part of what was meant by that statement.

God bless,

Mr. Keith

2006-09-21T11:02:00.000-04:00

I am not one that thinks of boycotts as something to get involved in.

When movies come out that I find offensive, I don't stop going to theaters that are showing it. I go see a different film.

When France said they opposed the war in Iraq, I didn't go out and put one of those stupid "boycott France" stickers on my vehicle. In fact, my first thought when they started showing up was "I bet this idiot isn't even smart enough to figure out what's French and what's not". Those people were the ones that stop eating French Toast and French Fries and French Bread. Thinking they were really sticking it to the French.

When I find out a place I eat or purchase things at regularly supports canidates or policies I disagree with, I don't stop eating or shopping there.
Case in point; Ted Turner is an moron, and he owns Ted's Montana. It's the only restaurant that serves bison on it's regular menu. I happen to really enjoy the taste of bison. If given the opportunity to eat there I jump at the chance. I hate that some of my money goes to him, but I get to eat bison there.

I think boycotts for the most part are a waste of time. They usually end up having the opposite effect then intended. When some people see that there is a boycott they feel the sudden urge to go where others are saying we shouldn't go to.

Where am I going with this?

Boycott Citgo.

The gas station?

Yes, the gas station.

Why?

Because Citgo is owned by the Government of Venezuela, and there for run by Hugo Chavez. Every gallon of gas, candy bar, quart of oil, or six pack of Bud you buy goes to support the new Roberto Mussolini. (Ahmadinejad being the new Hitler. He is calling for the total destruction of Israel, after all.)

Chavez and his government are supporters of Islamic terrorists and any one that hates America (United Nations). I'm not so sure that he is actually a socialist or a communist. I think he is just a power hungry SOB.

If you truly love USA then you would think it a good idea to cause problems for all of our enemies, but if you think hurting the Government of Venezuela is a bad thing, then it's obvious where your loyalties are.

Here's something for all you peace at any pricers, like Carter. The Soviets had a definition for peace you might agree with. Peace is when all voices opposing the Soviet Government are silenced.

The only place to find the peace you want is in solitary confinement.

If you will recall the only reason this nation came into existence was because we went to war with England and won. The only reason we don't all speak German and Israel exists today was that we went to war and won.

The price for freedom and peace is the willingness to take up arms and wage war against those who try to take it away from us until they are defeated. Whether they surrender or are completely destroyed.

With all that said here is a challenge for you. I don't see any reason for the US be be a member of the UN. Some one explain to me why the UN is good for the US.

God bless,
Mr. Keith

p.s. International opinion is a load of crap. So, that is not a reason.

2006-09-18T08:01:00.000-04:00

I deleted my post about my reaction to "The Path to 9/11".

I don't regret what I wrote, and if you read it I stand by what I said.

But even though I still meant what I wrote. I believe that it was time to take it down. I didn't intend on keeping up forever any way.

I realize my views can be very polarizing and "offensive" to a lot of people. Just read some of the other blogs I've posted.

The reason I deleted it is because...I'm not sure how to explain it. I could say that some of the language I used was inappropriate and some of it was, but that's not it. I could say it was to politically one sided, but that would not bother me in any way, shape, or form. I could even say that the direction I ended up taking was not what the film was trying to say, but I wasn't writing a review. I was writing from my heart, my emotional experience. That is after all why I waited until after I saw both parts.

It was just time to delete it. I don't know if any one is reading this blog any way. You might be reading this thinking, "What the hell is this loser writing about?"

If you didn't read it then, I just wasted your time. I apologize for that.

If you did, you are probably happy I took it down. You're welcome.

God bless,
Mr. Keith

2006-09-08T08:22:00.000-04:00

In responce to The Austin Project, Chris Coggin's blog, September 1, 2006.

Amen, brother.
How often do we as Christians allow ourselves to get caught up in life and forget...No, not forget, but set aside the truths we know.

We don't forget to persue Christ and a Christ-like life. We set those "things" aside because of bills, stress at work, or some one cut us off in traffic.

Even in sin, I am aware of what I am doing, and yet, I continue for that short period of feeling good. Then turn around to the fact that what I just did was wrong.

When i was a child I could get away with the excuse that I didn't know what I was doing to be wrong. Here I am in my thirties, and I still struggle with doing what is right. I know that doing right always, always, always leads to joy. Sin always, always, always leads to darkness and disappointment, but here I am still trying (did you catch that? trying) to do right in the eyes of God.

Oh, how pathetic a creature this man is.

How is it that Jesus still stands beside me holding me up? Walking beside me. So often carrying me through life.

Why does He put up with us? With me? Who am I that You would reach out Your hand to save me? Isn't He great?

God bless,
Mr. Keith

(It's back to talk radio for me.)

2006-08-31T11:42:00.000-04:00

Some one posted a comment, YYYAAAYYY.

My good friend Lydia Pistol is the first person to leave a comment. I am very greatful to her for doing so. I am full of great or something like that.

Anyway, thank you Lydia for your time.

Now, take her example, and let me know what you're thinking.

Mr. Keith

2006-08-30T13:13:00.000-04:00

Will FL ever recover?

I can't tell you how much I've enjoyed this hurricane season. Not one hurricane has hit us. Not one.

As soon as I read Ernesto hit Cuba and slowed down, I knew there was nothing but a big rain storm headed to FL.

Now it could turn into one as it moves up the coast line. I will admit that, but again, it would be minor. Well, as minor as a hurricane can be.

We're over half way through the season. Where is the worst season ever?

M. Keith

2006-08-22T10:04:00.001-04:00

Okay, I admit I don't hate myspace.com, completely.

myspace.com is just like Wal-Mart.

Well, I'll tell you. Thanks for asking.

Most honest people will tell you that they love and hate Wal-Mart. I know I do. The reasons might be different, but the feelings are the same.

I love Wal-mart because it is so convenient. The largest one in the Southeast is just down the road from my house. If I need groceries, jeans, socks, a DVD whatever. In five minutes I'm there.

That is probably the same for most people.

And for all of you that went to college or were a part of a missions organization or were just bored. How many times have you gone to Waly World with friends just to screw around or try to get kicked out. It's like a theme park for bored and poor people.

Now the hate is for different reasons then a lot of people. I don't hate them because they're a big scary corporation trying to make as much money as possible to become rich. I am a capitalist and I do the job I do to make as much money as possible. So, I can live the life style I want to. It's not because every employee doesn't have health insurance or employees aren't paid enough. They should have done better negotiating to get the pay and insurance they wanted, or they should have worked harder in the past then they did so they could have better standing in the job negotiation process. I don't hate them because they won't allow their employees to unionize if they choose to. That's actually a good reason to love them. After all I am a capitalist.

My hatred is because of there use of Eminent Domain. What am I talking about? If they try to buy up land to built there next store, and one of the land owners doesn't want to sell. Wal-Mart goes to the county or city government and get them to condemn the land. Forcing the owners off. Supposedly being paid "far market value". People who have had there home for 30 -40 years, or in their family for over 100 years taken away by their government because the gov will get more taxes from Wal-Mart then you.

What's that got to do with myspace.com? Not much other then I hate and love myspace.com. to find out why I hate it, look at the previous post. I love it be cause it's convenient.

Mr. Kieth

2006-08-01T19:19:00.000-04:00

I hate myspace.com.

The only problem is, that's the best way for me to keep up with my friends that live in other states, and countries.

I wish there was another way that was as simple as myspce is supposed to be.

I don't know if they're not smart enough to stay way ahead of how many people join their site or not, but probably so.

I'm sorry, but I had to vent.

Mr. Keith
(is pissed off.)

2006-07-27T15:27:00.001-04:00

Living in the past.

There is a little Baptist church I pass every day on my way to work. I also pass it going to my church. Apparently at the end of the month they are having, as their sign says, an "old time camp meeting". Under that it says, "Various old time preachers and singers".
When ever I see signs like that at churches, it makes me nervous. I'll tell you why. (Thanks for asking.)

I get concerned that they think if they sing the old hymns, preach the old sermons, and have the old time meetings, and then they will have the old experiences. Not that in and of it self is not bad, but it's not good either. I'm sure those old experiences with God were great, moving, and so important to who they have become, but if you keep trying to relive those experiences you won't have any new ones.
It bothers me when people live in the past, and refuse to let go. If you don't let go, you get stuck. You can't move forward.

Not that long ago my dad was preaching at my home church, and he was talking about letting go of the past. He used driving in a car as an analogy. He asked the question, "Why do you think the rearview mirror is so small?" Well that's an easy answer isn't it? Its small be because you're not going in reverse. You're moving forward. If you had a large rearview mirror and a small window to see what was ahead, you'd end up in an accident.

So, why is it so hard to get some people to understand this? If you honestly look at the history of the church, and look through the Bible you find that God never moved the same way twice, but the Church constantly tries to relive "the glory days". As if things were better then, then now.

I remember my so called "glory days". You couldn't pay me enough to go back there and relive it. I've been there once, never again.

I want the new things of God. I don't want the experiences from when I was seven, 12, or even 25. I want new ones.

I remember when I was a youth sponsor, not sure why we were called that because I never sponsored any one, at the church I grew up in. One of the girls came to me, I think it was Lydia, and asked about the youth group when I was in middle/high school. I'll be honest, when I was in middle/high school; the youth group seemed much more focused and determined to seek God. Maybe it was because of the attitudes of the youth pastors I had as opposed to the one we had at the time of the question. I just remember my response being positive to the past and negative to the present.
Perhaps what I said was the truth, but I gave no hope to the future with that youth pastor. I know I did a disservice to her and any one else listening.

When we get into situations that we are unfamiliar with, I guess, we search for comfort, and if we can grab hold of it we know we'll be fine.

I remember at a men's retreat at that same church, we had an amazing service. Great praise and worship. The message was powerful. And we all got to see something of each other we hadn't before.
After the service was over, we were all talking in groups around the building or outside by the lake. When all of a sudden some one was playing the piano. Then about four or five older men started singing old gospel songs. I just remember having to get out of there, because it felt like they were trying to dig up the past.
Now, I grew up hearing that music, and I knew all the songs they were singing. In fact, I still listen to those songs from time to time, but they were trying to take a new experience and force it to look like the old.
I went outside and started talking to a friend, Peter, who was fishing in the lake. (How's that for a metaphor) And we talked about the new thing.
Yes the old is important. Without the old you don't know where you came from, and can't stay on the path to get where you're going.
But if you focus on the old you get off the present path and miss the future you're meant to have.

The rearview mirror is to remind you of what is behind you. That's why it's small. The wind shield shows you where you’re going. That's why it's large.

I hope this makes sense and thank you for your time.

Mr. Keith

2006-07-24T13:55:00.000-04:00

As they say, let's give it a go.

This is my attempt at having a blog.

What you will see here in the near future will offend, humor, infuriate, astonish ( probably not), encourage, bless, convict, exhort, ect. you, or will have no effect on you what so ever. But hopefully, above all it will help you in some way. I know it will help me.

It's kind of like when you're trying to figure something out or understand something, it helps to just say what your thinking out loud, or in this case, write it down. Things often times appear different when you say it out loud or read it then when you think it. So, sometimes I might post something and immediately change my mind, but then keep it up just to get your opinion.

If you are offended, please except my apology. While sometimes that might even be my attempt. The only reason I do so is to get you to think. I know when I get offended I want to know why I'm offended and why the one/ones that have offended me think that way.

Feel free to criticize my posts. I will take it constructively, and who knows you might change the way I or others think about or see the world.

Thank you for your time,

Mr. Keith