"Fairy tales do not tell children that dragons exist. Children already know that dragons exist. Fairy tales tell children that dragons can be killed." --G.K. Chesterton
There are a lot of things that I could say on a blog like this. There are things I want to say, but can't. There are things that probably should be said, but would be demeaning. There are such a shopping list of things I want to say out of sheer frustration, but my conscious always seems to catch me at the last moment and pulls me from creating more dragons and instead creates more happy times and "happily ever afters." It's not too bad to have Him as a narrator.
It's just really frustrating to keep it in. I could tell someone, but who is really to trust? William Shakespeare once said:
"Love all. Trust a few. Do wrong to none."
And while I can't say I or anyone else has really followed Shakespeare's advice fully, something gnaws at me. Why must humanity be like this? I have watched way too much Criminal Minds for my own good. I love that show, but, in a fictional sense, it depicts how much potential evil there is in our world. For as much good as there is, there is always some form of evil to counteract it. A place like college is infested with both. We as people are both. The things that people do to each other are awful and we are all guilty of it.
This is not meant to be a sermon, a preaching, a deep word that the whole world should hear. I am in no position to speak about this. I can't preach about this and this is simple truth that everyone knows, but few want to admit it as true.
I had a dream a couple night ago about middle school. It's kinda funny when I think about because middle school was home to so many (and some of the most awkward and painful) memories. It's weird that I would even think about this. One would think that I'd want to try to suppress this as much as I could, but I have failed to do such a task for five or six years now. As awkward as I felt, I can't help but think about all the memories that I had there and how all these moments (the good and the bad) have help transform an awkward, gullible seventh grader into the person I am now.
Evil is all over the place. Middle school, high school, college. It's a battle to stay composed through all of it and control is constantly lost and the evil wins. The dragons are always there. Dragons are everywhere, like it or not, and they take the shape of friends, co-workers and others.
"Nothing is easier than to denounce the evil doer; Nothing more difficult than understanding (the evil doer)."
---Fyodor Dostoevsky
The holidays could not have come at a better time...
Wednesday, December 7, 2011
Monday, November 7, 2011
But You Loved Me Anyways.....
No one ever said life in college was easy. No one said it would be glamorous or a breeze. College is tough. Sure, the homework is challenging, but throw on any jobs, family life, financial trials, relationships and/or spiritual warfare and it makes college some of the best, yet most trying times of life.
Friendships in college are some of the tightest bonds that a person will ever have in their lifetime, outside of marriage. These are people that you live with, eat with, do everything with and tell your whole life (and the problems that go with it) to. These friends are some of the best friends one will ever have, which makes conflicts within them more challenging and more painful.
Stress and pain are unfortunately commonalities that we as humans feel. As humans, we are not capable of having perfectly glorious and healthy relationships. Grief and suffering are common emotions every now and again and tears and anger are likely results of these. You can never understand why we must go through these, but God does.
Christians are sinners, pure and simple. No matter how perfect we attempt to be, there is always failure. We always fall short, no ifs or buts about it. (Romans 3:23 For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God’s glorious standard.) It is impossible for us to be perfect. We will sin and others will sin on us. Yes, it stinks. Yes, no one likes it. Yes, you can't complain about it. We each have a nice plank in our possession (see Matthew).
Someone like myself or Casey Anthony or Conrad Murray are all seen the same by God. We all have been convicted of sin. What we must remember, however, are the feelings of love, compassion and forgiveness that MUST be present. If we wrong someone and they graciously forgive us, it makes sense to forgive them with the same compassion, no? Or, think about it this way: Christians sinned and turned their backs to God so many times, yet He always forgave them and loved them just as He had before. If we don't love and forgive each other for the sin we have placed on someone, then we are straight-up denying Luke 17:3-4 (So watch yourselves! “If another believer sins, rebuke that person; then if there is repentance, forgive. Even if that person wrongs you seven times a day and each time turns again and asks forgiveness, you must forgive.”)
Saying this, I know and completely understand how hard it is to quickly bounce back. I'm not saying to automatically forgive. The phrase 'forgive and forget' is a kind of contradiction. It's very hard to forgive something so dreadful and hurtful. However, when we forgive our friends for our misdoings, we glorify God that much more.
And that's the ultimate goal, no?
Friendships in college are some of the tightest bonds that a person will ever have in their lifetime, outside of marriage. These are people that you live with, eat with, do everything with and tell your whole life (and the problems that go with it) to. These friends are some of the best friends one will ever have, which makes conflicts within them more challenging and more painful.
Stress and pain are unfortunately commonalities that we as humans feel. As humans, we are not capable of having perfectly glorious and healthy relationships. Grief and suffering are common emotions every now and again and tears and anger are likely results of these. You can never understand why we must go through these, but God does.
Christians are sinners, pure and simple. No matter how perfect we attempt to be, there is always failure. We always fall short, no ifs or buts about it. (Romans 3:23 For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God’s glorious standard.) It is impossible for us to be perfect. We will sin and others will sin on us. Yes, it stinks. Yes, no one likes it. Yes, you can't complain about it. We each have a nice plank in our possession (see Matthew).
Someone like myself or Casey Anthony or Conrad Murray are all seen the same by God. We all have been convicted of sin. What we must remember, however, are the feelings of love, compassion and forgiveness that MUST be present. If we wrong someone and they graciously forgive us, it makes sense to forgive them with the same compassion, no? Or, think about it this way: Christians sinned and turned their backs to God so many times, yet He always forgave them and loved them just as He had before. If we don't love and forgive each other for the sin we have placed on someone, then we are straight-up denying Luke 17:3-4 (So watch yourselves! “If another believer sins, rebuke that person; then if there is repentance, forgive. Even if that person wrongs you seven times a day and each time turns again and asks forgiveness, you must forgive.”)
Saying this, I know and completely understand how hard it is to quickly bounce back. I'm not saying to automatically forgive. The phrase 'forgive and forget' is a kind of contradiction. It's very hard to forgive something so dreadful and hurtful. However, when we forgive our friends for our misdoings, we glorify God that much more.
And that's the ultimate goal, no?
Monday, October 24, 2011
Robby's Rant: Sin
Oh Devil, why do you tempt me so? Why do you put these sinful, paranoid thoughts into my mind? Why must you put me through this mental agony and strain over the most stupid of reasons? You know that this is one of the big issues I struggle with on a daily basis, so how dare you use this issue against me. It's such a low blow, you conniving pest. Your powers are making me so paranoid that it frustrates me to be around the friends I love the most, to be around anything that annoys me in the least bit and almost anything period. You rat, you fiend, you devil. How could you? Why are you doing this to me?????
Be as it may, I am okay. Devil, you can never defeat me and I will come up on top. I will survive this moment of struggle because I have Strength. Because I have Power. Because I have Will and Grace and Mercy. This battle going inside of me will not last forever, not if He has something to say about, Devil. I know I have a higher power watching over me, guiding me and helping me get through this. Nothing that you can do or say or tempt me with can stop me, hold me down, or get me more mad than I already am at you.
"And when the waves are taking you under, hold on just a little bit longer. He knows that this is going to make you stronger, stronger. The pain ain't gonna last forever and things are gonna get better. Believe me, this is gonna make you stronger. 'Cause if He started this work in your life, He'll be faithful to complete it if only you believe it. He knows how much it hurt and I'm sure He's gonna help you get through this."
How dare you try to ruin something that has been made great for me, you fiend? How dare you?
Be as it may, I am okay. Devil, you can never defeat me and I will come up on top. I will survive this moment of struggle because I have Strength. Because I have Power. Because I have Will and Grace and Mercy. This battle going inside of me will not last forever, not if He has something to say about, Devil. I know I have a higher power watching over me, guiding me and helping me get through this. Nothing that you can do or say or tempt me with can stop me, hold me down, or get me more mad than I already am at you.
"And when the waves are taking you under, hold on just a little bit longer. He knows that this is going to make you stronger, stronger. The pain ain't gonna last forever and things are gonna get better. Believe me, this is gonna make you stronger. 'Cause if He started this work in your life, He'll be faithful to complete it if only you believe it. He knows how much it hurt and I'm sure He's gonna help you get through this."
How dare you try to ruin something that has been made great for me, you fiend? How dare you?
Friday, October 21, 2011
Some articles of mine from the Tennessee Journalist
http://tnjn.com/staff/averones/
http://tnjn.com/2011/oct/19/pick-em-week-8/
http://tnjn.com/2011/oct/12/pick-em-week-7/
http://tnjn.com/2011/oct/06/pick-em-week-6/
http://tnjn.com/2011/sep/29/pick-em-week-5/
http://tnjn.com/2011/sep/21/pick-em-week-4/
http://tnjn.com/2011/oct/11/sec-power-rankings-bama-and-ls/
http://tnjn.com/2011/oct/09/dowd-makes-history-in-win-over/
http://tnjn.com/2011/sep/12/cover-two-is-texas-am-a-good-a/
And one more article that I was in from the Athaeneum
http://www.athenaeumnews.com/327/
http://tnjn.com/2011/oct/19/pick-em-week-8/
http://tnjn.com/2011/oct/12/pick-em-week-7/
http://tnjn.com/2011/oct/06/pick-em-week-6/
http://tnjn.com/2011/sep/29/pick-em-week-5/
http://tnjn.com/2011/sep/21/pick-em-week-4/
http://tnjn.com/2011/oct/11/sec-power-rankings-bama-and-ls/
http://tnjn.com/2011/oct/09/dowd-makes-history-in-win-over/
http://tnjn.com/2011/sep/12/cover-two-is-texas-am-a-good-a/
And one more article that I was in from the Athaeneum
http://www.athenaeumnews.com/327/
Monday, October 3, 2011
Two hundred fifty nine thousand two hundred seconds. Two hundred fifty nine thousand moments so dear? Two hundred fifty nine thousand two hundred seconds. How do you measure, measure anthem?
This year's Anthem, VFC's annual Fall Break conference, was similar in many ways to how Anthem went last year. The weather was beautiful, the people there were amazing, the adventure was hilarious and muddy, the blob jumps were entertaining, the paintball was fun (kinda...I mean I'm not really into paintball), the messages were informative and the worship was electrifying. From the surface, it was just another Anthem.
But it really wasn't just another Anthem. This year was different. I mean, obviously this year wasn't going to be the exact same as last year's, just as this year's VFC wasn't gonna be the same as last year. It just amazes me how much can happen in such a relatively short time. The tone this Fall Break was considerably different than last year. I can vividly remember sitting in the main room last year wondering who half the people were, what exactly I was doing in VFC at all.
For some reason, the word 'nostalgic' constantly pops into my head when I think of this past weekend. I'm not sure it's quite the right word, but it'll do until I think of a better word. It is crazy how much I personally have changed in a year and it is said changes that seem to make Anthem a little different this go around. I see new people coming into Anthem for the first time, or I'll see the paintballing, adventure racing or preaching and something in me automatically reminisces.
I talked to several new VFC-ers and all of told me how awesome of an experience this was and how there lives are different after this and one even told me how she became a Christian this weekend. It brings such great joy to me, being a VFC veteran, of how a gift like Anthem can change lives like it has. There are many things that have given me great joy in the recent years and one can't help but stop and be thankful for all the joy that has come from being down here at UT.
But it really wasn't just another Anthem. This year was different. I mean, obviously this year wasn't going to be the exact same as last year's, just as this year's VFC wasn't gonna be the same as last year. It just amazes me how much can happen in such a relatively short time. The tone this Fall Break was considerably different than last year. I can vividly remember sitting in the main room last year wondering who half the people were, what exactly I was doing in VFC at all.
For some reason, the word 'nostalgic' constantly pops into my head when I think of this past weekend. I'm not sure it's quite the right word, but it'll do until I think of a better word. It is crazy how much I personally have changed in a year and it is said changes that seem to make Anthem a little different this go around. I see new people coming into Anthem for the first time, or I'll see the paintballing, adventure racing or preaching and something in me automatically reminisces.
I talked to several new VFC-ers and all of told me how awesome of an experience this was and how there lives are different after this and one even told me how she became a Christian this weekend. It brings such great joy to me, being a VFC veteran, of how a gift like Anthem can change lives like it has. There are many things that have given me great joy in the recent years and one can't help but stop and be thankful for all the joy that has come from being down here at UT.
Saturday, September 24, 2011
Passion University Tour reaction
I went to a concert on Thursday featuring Charlie Hall and Kristian Stanfill, two singers in the Christian genre. I really enjoyed it! The music was very good, the guys themselves are both extremely talented and the atmosphere was very vibrant and electric. It was a great night overall, I loved it! I even came away with pictures and autographs, so it was a great nice overall. :)
I guess the part that stuck with me most out of all of the experience was the simple fact that they were Christian. I don't know, you never think that you have any connection with a singer, an actor or an athlete of any fame until you get to somewhat know them and realize that they have a connection with you that is simply beyond anything you could ever think of to be possible. For some reason, I forget that people are all just simply people. Every singer or athlete is simply a normal person like you or I, so they have gone through the same things that we non-celebrities go through.
So, saying that, it blows my mind for some strange reason that someone like a Kristian Stanfill, Charlie Hall, Josh Hamilton, Ben Zobrist, Tim Tebow or anyone else of that nature shares the same religious beliefs that I do. It's hard to explain and it seems a little silly-sounding at first, but I feel a strong sense of joy from it, from how so many different people are affected by it. How a simple connection like religion is able to connect so many different people in general just astounds me beyond words.
Yeah, the concert was kinda awesome!!
I guess the part that stuck with me most out of all of the experience was the simple fact that they were Christian. I don't know, you never think that you have any connection with a singer, an actor or an athlete of any fame until you get to somewhat know them and realize that they have a connection with you that is simply beyond anything you could ever think of to be possible. For some reason, I forget that people are all just simply people. Every singer or athlete is simply a normal person like you or I, so they have gone through the same things that we non-celebrities go through.
So, saying that, it blows my mind for some strange reason that someone like a Kristian Stanfill, Charlie Hall, Josh Hamilton, Ben Zobrist, Tim Tebow or anyone else of that nature shares the same religious beliefs that I do. It's hard to explain and it seems a little silly-sounding at first, but I feel a strong sense of joy from it, from how so many different people are affected by it. How a simple connection like religion is able to connect so many different people in general just astounds me beyond words.
Yeah, the concert was kinda awesome!!
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
Hess Community Group
Every Tuesday night brings me great joy. VFC's Community Groups always have provided with a great mid-week break from school and other parts of life to meet in small group settings and discuss the previous message, another aspect of Christian life, or just to hang out and have fellowship amongst the people of Hess or any of the other dorms.
With the goal of building community within the respective dorms on campus, VFC has successfully been able to gather in each of the UT dorms and built a communal presence in each residence hall that has spread God around.
Coming in last year at the very beginning, I have been a member of Hess's Community Group (http://www.facebook.com/pages/VFC-Hess-Community-Group/133540976699283). Living in one of the largest (if not the largest) of the dorms on campus, I have witnessed and have been a part of the growth of the community within Hess. It has been amazing seeing how God has worked within the students that have come to the weekly meetings. New kids have gotten plugged into VFC, the Word and message of God has been expressed and discussed, and returning member have created stronger bonds with each other.
Sitting in 3 Spoons tonight, enjoying my cup of Cake Batter and Vanilla-mixed frozen yogurt with rainbow sprinkles, the fellowship of Hess was omnipresent. In a time where our leaders were out, the rest of the Mission Team members stepped up and provided an atmosphere that, at least in my opinion, served those new people that came and enjoyed healthy, frozen goodness.
I've mentioned many times over how the adjustment from freshman to sophomore has impacted me within VFC specifically, but I know that I have grown through God. Being able to help run a time of fellowship with all the communication glitches and overall questions throughout this first semester has shown that He is faithful to our group and will serve and provide in times of need.
With the goal of building community within the respective dorms on campus, VFC has successfully been able to gather in each of the UT dorms and built a communal presence in each residence hall that has spread God around.
Coming in last year at the very beginning, I have been a member of Hess's Community Group (http://www.facebook.com/pages/VFC-Hess-Community-Group/133540976699283). Living in one of the largest (if not the largest) of the dorms on campus, I have witnessed and have been a part of the growth of the community within Hess. It has been amazing seeing how God has worked within the students that have come to the weekly meetings. New kids have gotten plugged into VFC, the Word and message of God has been expressed and discussed, and returning member have created stronger bonds with each other.
Sitting in 3 Spoons tonight, enjoying my cup of Cake Batter and Vanilla-mixed frozen yogurt with rainbow sprinkles, the fellowship of Hess was omnipresent. In a time where our leaders were out, the rest of the Mission Team members stepped up and provided an atmosphere that, at least in my opinion, served those new people that came and enjoyed healthy, frozen goodness.
I've mentioned many times over how the adjustment from freshman to sophomore has impacted me within VFC specifically, but I know that I have grown through God. Being able to help run a time of fellowship with all the communication glitches and overall questions throughout this first semester has shown that He is faithful to our group and will serve and provide in times of need.
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
What happens at Barstucks, stays at Barstucks
Sitting at my computer in a local coffee shop with certain friends, there is a certain ambiance surrounding the room. One is gnawing on a coffee stirrer while either looking at pictures of babies, recipes or talking about Stumbling. One is just chilling out, not having to do any work whatsoever, usually deep in thought. Another is sleeping after studying for seemingly eternity before having to wake up for another unheard of hours. Another is reading the bible, looking up in her glasses look every now and then to stare at me and/or laugh at some ridiculously hilarious event and/or flicking me in the ear. The other one is actually being a fairly good student, studying for most of the time, until he either has to stare at me or someone else, bob his head to techno, or just flat-out be weird. And then, there's me. Homework for the night has ceased and the time is now reserved for surfing, Facebooking and listening to practically anything and everything on Facebook.
From here, the indoor part will close at 12, allowing the party to shift outside, where more hanging out and deep conversations will ensue and take place.
And this happens pretty much every night.
It's awesome. What started as a once in a while hangout has turned into a routine thing. Homework gets done, friendships are strengthened and all are even held accountable for all that they have done since the time before. After a long and sometimes stressful day, having a place to relax, veg, and chill is very much needed and appreciated.
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
Life recap 9/8/11
The skies have been gray and gloomy for what seems like forever, but more like a week. The unheard of amounts of rain have dampened the three weeks of sunshine that welcomed me to UT, but it has failed in stopping life altogether here on Rocky Top.
Classes are classes. While many are about to go into the first week of class back up North, I am already in week four of classes here. The first wave of tests and major assignments are on the horizon like a hurricane coming to land. Overall, the work is challenging, interesting, but not too bad yet. A lot of reading, but that's the worst of it so far.
Football opened the year off with a nicely-played 26-point beatdown of Montana last Saturday. The day started off with another day of sweltering heat, was followed by a shock monsoon (the first rain of the school year) that delayed the start of the game by an hour and a half, and was then followed by comfortable temperatures. I went through all this in full blazer, pants, tie, belt, etc. It was brutal, at least for the half an hour that I spent outside.
Yeah, I was in the skybox. No big deal, really. As a Student Alumni Associate, I took advantage of one of the many perks associated with the great organization. Free catered food, conversations with trustees and other important people, and views of gameday that are unmatched at any other location. Yes. I am quite happy!!
In other parts, VFC is amazing, as always. Being a part of the Mission Team is such a great joy and privilege for me. I love serving VFC and the campus community, especially for something as important to me as God is. At this point last year, I was the new person that was being reached out to left and right. I've said time and time before how important that was for me in terms of my growth. If I could be anything close to how everyone was to me last year, then that's what I want to do. The emotions and feelings of going down a path like I went down is crazy and still very fresh in my mind. I want to serve these guys as best as I can, making sure any questions or concerns they have are met wholeheartedly.
One of the most encouraging aspects of VFC is absolutely the number of people that are coming around. Coming to events at a Christian ministry is a choice. No one is ever forcing it upon anyone, so it makes it that much more encouraging to know that the numbers are much higher than in prior years. That is also true for the other ministries. I have heard stories of increasing numbers in CRU, Navigators, Chi Alpha, BCM, etc. It is such a blessing to see such an increase in people coming around and wanting to be a part of the Christian life.
So life is pretty sweet overall! The family is coming down this week!!!! Super excited about that!!!
Classes are classes. While many are about to go into the first week of class back up North, I am already in week four of classes here. The first wave of tests and major assignments are on the horizon like a hurricane coming to land. Overall, the work is challenging, interesting, but not too bad yet. A lot of reading, but that's the worst of it so far.
Football opened the year off with a nicely-played 26-point beatdown of Montana last Saturday. The day started off with another day of sweltering heat, was followed by a shock monsoon (the first rain of the school year) that delayed the start of the game by an hour and a half, and was then followed by comfortable temperatures. I went through all this in full blazer, pants, tie, belt, etc. It was brutal, at least for the half an hour that I spent outside.
Yeah, I was in the skybox. No big deal, really. As a Student Alumni Associate, I took advantage of one of the many perks associated with the great organization. Free catered food, conversations with trustees and other important people, and views of gameday that are unmatched at any other location. Yes. I am quite happy!!
In other parts, VFC is amazing, as always. Being a part of the Mission Team is such a great joy and privilege for me. I love serving VFC and the campus community, especially for something as important to me as God is. At this point last year, I was the new person that was being reached out to left and right. I've said time and time before how important that was for me in terms of my growth. If I could be anything close to how everyone was to me last year, then that's what I want to do. The emotions and feelings of going down a path like I went down is crazy and still very fresh in my mind. I want to serve these guys as best as I can, making sure any questions or concerns they have are met wholeheartedly.
One of the most encouraging aspects of VFC is absolutely the number of people that are coming around. Coming to events at a Christian ministry is a choice. No one is ever forcing it upon anyone, so it makes it that much more encouraging to know that the numbers are much higher than in prior years. That is also true for the other ministries. I have heard stories of increasing numbers in CRU, Navigators, Chi Alpha, BCM, etc. It is such a blessing to see such an increase in people coming around and wanting to be a part of the Christian life.
So life is pretty sweet overall! The family is coming down this week!!!! Super excited about that!!!
Thursday, September 1, 2011
An attempt at justification
My last blog post was uncalled for. Once again, my emotions and frustrations got the best me. As a Christian, one of the biggest aspects is the love we share for everyone, believer or not. Am I frustrated? Yes, but no matter how stressed or frustrated I get, I need to be patient, no matter how long. I mean, I was at this state last year: hard-hearted, turning away from Him. It took me from the beginning of the school year to Easter weekend to finally figure it out. Everyone was more than patient with me, so why shouldn't I give the same patience in return? I am convicted. The scriptures around Luke 6:36 are extremely convicting in this situation. Patient prayer is the answer in this situation, not public outburst.
I'm sorry.
I'm sorry.
Friday, August 26, 2011
Love makes the world, makes the world go 'round.
When I first stepped onto the fields at World's Fair Park, I was a nervous little Freshman. The Ultimate field was muddy as heck due to the recent downpour. I had just been introduced to VFC and was about to meet some of my closest friends in college. Ultimate was super fun, but I took away something much more meaningful. I felt community. I felt love.
Fast forward to January 2011. I am sleeping over at the VFC House because my dorm is not yet open. There is actually snow on the ground. It's mid-morning and the house guys decided to spend some time worshiping. I'll always remember this because of the magic of the moment. In front of me were twelve college guys. Rather than doing what I thought were "normal" college male conversations, they were actually worshiping and praising. I felt community. I felt love.
Community and love are two of the more important aspects of the Christian religion. As a community, each of the group loves and cares out for each other. They reach out to each other, pursue each other and genuinely care how each and every other. There is a mutual love. According to the bible, God has given non-believers the right to, in a way, judge whether a person is a true Christian or not. I was in this role last year. I, a non-believer, was able to judge for myself whether these people were Christian or not. Of course, now I know they were truly Christians. However, when I was looking at these people for the first time, I didn't make a snap judgment. Honestly, I was drawn by the community and love that the group possessed. That drew me and that kept me coming around until the point we are at today.
I love people. Everyone that knows me knows this. However, I love that He love me more and made me so that I can love people like I do.
So it breaks me a little when people post facebook statuses or say things that are simply full of sin. Christian or not, no one like sin. No one wakes up and thinks 'I am gonna sin today.' However, we all are sinning left and right, mostly without realizing it. It just frustrates me, I don't know. I can't control people, nor can I judge what they are doing. I know I need to love, but it's just hard when faced with certain situations people put themselves into. Sigh....oh well.. Rafting tomorrow!!!!
<3
Fast forward to January 2011. I am sleeping over at the VFC House because my dorm is not yet open. There is actually snow on the ground. It's mid-morning and the house guys decided to spend some time worshiping. I'll always remember this because of the magic of the moment. In front of me were twelve college guys. Rather than doing what I thought were "normal" college male conversations, they were actually worshiping and praising. I felt community. I felt love.
Community and love are two of the more important aspects of the Christian religion. As a community, each of the group loves and cares out for each other. They reach out to each other, pursue each other and genuinely care how each and every other. There is a mutual love. According to the bible, God has given non-believers the right to, in a way, judge whether a person is a true Christian or not. I was in this role last year. I, a non-believer, was able to judge for myself whether these people were Christian or not. Of course, now I know they were truly Christians. However, when I was looking at these people for the first time, I didn't make a snap judgment. Honestly, I was drawn by the community and love that the group possessed. That drew me and that kept me coming around until the point we are at today.
I love people. Everyone that knows me knows this. However, I love that He love me more and made me so that I can love people like I do.
So it breaks me a little when people post facebook statuses or say things that are simply full of sin. Christian or not, no one like sin. No one wakes up and thinks 'I am gonna sin today.' However, we all are sinning left and right, mostly without realizing it. It just frustrates me, I don't know. I can't control people, nor can I judge what they are doing. I know I need to love, but it's just hard when faced with certain situations people put themselves into. Sigh....oh well.. Rafting tomorrow!!!!
<3
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
Thank you...
Thank you.
Thank you for being you.
Thank you for being my friend.
Thank you for talking to me.
Thank you for plugging into me.
Thank you for taking all that time.
Thank you for the sarcasm.
Thank you for serving.
Thank you for always being there.
Thank you for the talks. The many, many important talks.
Thank you for being such a presence in my life.
Thank you for that very first time at the beginning.
Thank you for that look that help turn my year around.
Thank you for never giving up on me.
Thank you for being one of the greatest people that I could have run into at college.
Thank you God for working in you.
Thank you for being an older brother and true friend.
Thank you Proverbs 17:17
Thank you for fearing the Lord.
Thank you for being such an influence.
Thank you (very partially if at all) for what happened. 4.23.11
Thank you, you knucklehead.
Thank you for all you've done.
Thank you for knowing how I work. And then setting me straight afterwards.
Thank you for going off and doing what you're meant to do.
Muchas gracias para todas cosas, mi amigo. Te amo.
Thank you. Love you!
Thank you for being you.
Thank you for being my friend.
Thank you for talking to me.
Thank you for plugging into me.
Thank you for taking all that time.
Thank you for the sarcasm.
Thank you for serving.
Thank you for always being there.
Thank you for the talks. The many, many important talks.
Thank you for being such a presence in my life.
Thank you for that very first time at the beginning.
Thank you for that look that help turn my year around.
Thank you for never giving up on me.
Thank you for being one of the greatest people that I could have run into at college.
Thank you God for working in you.
Thank you for being an older brother and true friend.
Thank you Proverbs 17:17
Thank you for fearing the Lord.
Thank you for being such an influence.
Thank you (very partially if at all) for what happened. 4.23.11
Thank you, you knucklehead.
Thank you for all you've done.
Thank you for knowing how I work. And then setting me straight afterwards.
Thank you for going off and doing what you're meant to do.
Muchas gracias para todas cosas, mi amigo. Te amo.
Thank you. Love you!
Thursday, August 18, 2011
Let the Sun Shine In
"I believe that the sun has risen: not only because I see it, but because by it I see everything else."-C.S. Lewis
We always have learned that the sun is one of the most important beings in our solar system. It gives us the nutrients, life, etc. that we need in order to survive. It does all these great things...
...but we'd never actually look at it, would we?
Even with any protection, the sun is just so great and so bright that no one would dare look at it directly. It's just too powerful.
How, then, do we cherish it so? As Lewis puts it, we believe the sun is present because of the things in which we see the sun's effect on. If it wasn't for the plants, people, buildings and other items that the sun touched, we'd never know it existed at all.
And on top of it all, there has been many times in class where I've learned how insanely difficult the universe is structured. I don't understand science often, but I understand that if things weren't perfectly done, then we would not have the sun or anything.
Believe it or not, this is a metaphor....get it?
We always have learned that the sun is one of the most important beings in our solar system. It gives us the nutrients, life, etc. that we need in order to survive. It does all these great things...
...but we'd never actually look at it, would we?
Even with any protection, the sun is just so great and so bright that no one would dare look at it directly. It's just too powerful.
How, then, do we cherish it so? As Lewis puts it, we believe the sun is present because of the things in which we see the sun's effect on. If it wasn't for the plants, people, buildings and other items that the sun touched, we'd never know it existed at all.
And on top of it all, there has been many times in class where I've learned how insanely difficult the universe is structured. I don't understand science often, but I understand that if things weren't perfectly done, then we would not have the sun or anything.
Believe it or not, this is a metaphor....get it?
Friday, August 12, 2011
Summer '11
Seeing the Knoxville skyline for the first time in months was awesome. I admit, I was jumping, giddy, super pumped to be back in K-Ville for sophomore year in college. Of course, this marked the end of summer for me. Back up north, my friends are still having three more weeks (ish) of summer, still hanging out, still working, still relaxing like there's not a care in the world.
I do not get such luxury, but I couln't be happier. Of course, this sudden change in routine does allow one to look back and analyze how the summer went.
There were two simple sides to this past summer.
The first side involves all the "positive" aspects. I got to travel to many amazing places (i.e. Puerto Rico) and meet/hang out with some extraordinary people that make my life that much more fruitful (see NSCS blogpost, for instance). Great memories were made and I loved every moment. Plus, I made money. Always awesome.
The other side involves the "negative" aspects. Not necessarily in a literal sense, but more in a way of improvement and growth. Coming off such a monumental year, I was really excited to continue to grow and mature and what not. I had a long, long list of books that I planned to read. I planned to talk with many people that would keep me from straying off course, so to speak.
To an extent, I succeeded. In reality, my laziness came back to bite me.
So, I didn't read every single book I wanted to and I didn't have all the conversations, but I believe that I was extremely encouraged and inspired by what I experienced, what I saw, and what I felt over these two months. I have noticed sides of people that I would not have expected to witness and I was able to tell people my story, while at the same time note on what I have to do in order to mature and become a stronger person.
Overall, a great, successful summer. I am happy.
School life starts back up now and I am back on Rocky Top.
I do not get such luxury, but I couln't be happier. Of course, this sudden change in routine does allow one to look back and analyze how the summer went.
There were two simple sides to this past summer.
The first side involves all the "positive" aspects. I got to travel to many amazing places (i.e. Puerto Rico) and meet/hang out with some extraordinary people that make my life that much more fruitful (see NSCS blogpost, for instance). Great memories were made and I loved every moment. Plus, I made money. Always awesome.
The other side involves the "negative" aspects. Not necessarily in a literal sense, but more in a way of improvement and growth. Coming off such a monumental year, I was really excited to continue to grow and mature and what not. I had a long, long list of books that I planned to read. I planned to talk with many people that would keep me from straying off course, so to speak.
To an extent, I succeeded. In reality, my laziness came back to bite me.
So, I didn't read every single book I wanted to and I didn't have all the conversations, but I believe that I was extremely encouraged and inspired by what I experienced, what I saw, and what I felt over these two months. I have noticed sides of people that I would not have expected to witness and I was able to tell people my story, while at the same time note on what I have to do in order to mature and become a stronger person.
Overall, a great, successful summer. I am happy.
School life starts back up now and I am back on Rocky Top.
Monday, August 8, 2011
CASE ASAP 2011: Showtime!!!
Nashville, Tennessee is one of my favorite cities in the South. As the birthplace of country music, Tennessee's capital has a certain kind of feeling to it. A feeling where there almost always seems to be a main event. The city's a stage and all the performers come alive to give the city its unique character.
The first August weekend brought in a new talent. The CASE ASAP convention, a conference that focuses on the Student-Alumni Associations across the country, premiered in Music City USA for its annual performance. Starring the SAA's from the University of Tennessee and Northern Kentucky University, this year's conference planned on being the biggest in the program's history, and, with all bias aside, this year lived up to a lot of the hype.
Of course, as a still relatively new SAA member at UT, it was great to meet other SAA's and learn some tips on how to run and partake in a successful association. However, from the staff's perspective, it was extremely encouraging to see everyone there who came in from all across the country meeting each other and learning new ideas themselves. At UT, we are extremely blessed to have such a solid SAA program. We are able to bring 35-40 people, bring so much to the table, heck, even co-host this entire convention. There were many programs that were making their debuts, so to speak. I was talking to some reps from Georgia State and they have grown to about 600 members (or some ridiculous) in an extremely small amount of time. The newbies from Atlanta also won the Spirit award this year. It'll be great to see how they grow in the future.
My favorite moment, though, overall was inside my own group. Getting to know the SAA's from my own school better was by far the best part of the weekend for me. Having been in SAA for a few months, I somewhat knew people in the group, but this weekend allowed me to get to know everyone a LOT better. There is still some novelties that will wear off with time, but I definitely consider SAA more of a family now than I did at the beginning of my SAA time. I can't wait for more SAA memories.
And hopefully, CASE ASAP will make an encore appearance in Nashville in the near future.
The first August weekend brought in a new talent. The CASE ASAP convention, a conference that focuses on the Student-Alumni Associations across the country, premiered in Music City USA for its annual performance. Starring the SAA's from the University of Tennessee and Northern Kentucky University, this year's conference planned on being the biggest in the program's history, and, with all bias aside, this year lived up to a lot of the hype.
Of course, as a still relatively new SAA member at UT, it was great to meet other SAA's and learn some tips on how to run and partake in a successful association. However, from the staff's perspective, it was extremely encouraging to see everyone there who came in from all across the country meeting each other and learning new ideas themselves. At UT, we are extremely blessed to have such a solid SAA program. We are able to bring 35-40 people, bring so much to the table, heck, even co-host this entire convention. There were many programs that were making their debuts, so to speak. I was talking to some reps from Georgia State and they have grown to about 600 members (or some ridiculous) in an extremely small amount of time. The newbies from Atlanta also won the Spirit award this year. It'll be great to see how they grow in the future.
My favorite moment, though, overall was inside my own group. Getting to know the SAA's from my own school better was by far the best part of the weekend for me. Having been in SAA for a few months, I somewhat knew people in the group, but this weekend allowed me to get to know everyone a LOT better. There is still some novelties that will wear off with time, but I definitely consider SAA more of a family now than I did at the beginning of my SAA time. I can't wait for more SAA memories.
And hopefully, CASE ASAP will make an encore appearance in Nashville in the near future.
Friday, July 29, 2011
Happy birthday to me!!!!
Birthdays are a special time of the year that never seems to get old. The 19th birthday celebration isn't quite the same as the 9th birthday party, but there's still a feeling of excitement that comes in the days, hours, and minutes leading up to the point when the clock strikes midnight on the day of one's birthday.
The agenda for the day consisted of a baseball game. Shocking, I know. This whole weekend actually is chock full of baseball, with games in the next two days as well in the Bronx and Staten Island. Tonight's action came from Coney Island in Brooklyn, home to the Mets' class A Short Season affiliate, the Brooklyn Cyclones. MCU Park, home of the Cyclones, which are named after the historic wooden roller coaster seen beyond left field, is located right on the ocean and provides a very fun-filled, dare I say carnival-like atmosphere to an extent. I have been several times now over the years and it is always a very enjoyable experience, but there is one thing about Brooklyn that always is frustrating to my grandma and I.
She lives in Westchester County, north of the city. Brooklyn is on the eastern edge of New York City on Long Island. You can't avoid NYC and the miles of traffic that come with it.
On this given night, the following hurdles were in the way:
1. rush hour traffic from seemingly every direction possible
2. Yankee traffic for that night's game in the Bronx
3. Friday night heading towards Long Island = weekend getaway = traffic!
4. probably 10 other reasons I can't think of now.
Now usually, a smart person would take the subway to get in and around of NYC. That's like the number one rule of life in a city like New York. NEVER DRIVE IF YOU DON'T HAVE TO!!! Coney Island also is serviced by the subway, but the walk between the subway and the ballpark after a game (which is like 10ish if one is lucky) is kinda creepy and is a walk that is best avoided if need be. On top of that, having to subway hop and train hop at that hour is hard because if something happens and a train is missed...the station's concrete floor provides a comfortable sleeping spot. So we drove....it took us three hours to make an almost 40 mile journey. We got there however.
And then it rained.
And thundered.
Lightning struck too.
But as with most summer storms, it lasted all of 10-15 minutes, the tarp was taken off the field and the delay took an hour. The game itself was a pitcher's duel with Brooklyn's Brian Harrison smacking a two-run double in the bottom of the eighth to give the Cyclones a 2-0 win. Overall, a great night considering the pre-game festivities.
Also, to make the birthday sweeter, as I log into Facebook I see a notification which says the following:
"_________ and x number of friends have written on your wall." :)
Now, I'm trying to keep a level head in the matter. A birthday is not measured by the number of people that write on one's facebook wall. However, I'd be lying completely if I said that I wasn't touched at all by the thought and kindness that people displayed by wishing me a happy birthday. Guys, I love each and every one of you! Know that, remember that. It really does mean a lot to me and it was the icing on the cake of a great day, no pun intended.
Although, ironically, I have not eaten any cake yet. Hmmm......
The agenda for the day consisted of a baseball game. Shocking, I know. This whole weekend actually is chock full of baseball, with games in the next two days as well in the Bronx and Staten Island. Tonight's action came from Coney Island in Brooklyn, home to the Mets' class A Short Season affiliate, the Brooklyn Cyclones. MCU Park, home of the Cyclones, which are named after the historic wooden roller coaster seen beyond left field, is located right on the ocean and provides a very fun-filled, dare I say carnival-like atmosphere to an extent. I have been several times now over the years and it is always a very enjoyable experience, but there is one thing about Brooklyn that always is frustrating to my grandma and I.
She lives in Westchester County, north of the city. Brooklyn is on the eastern edge of New York City on Long Island. You can't avoid NYC and the miles of traffic that come with it.
On this given night, the following hurdles were in the way:
1. rush hour traffic from seemingly every direction possible
2. Yankee traffic for that night's game in the Bronx
3. Friday night heading towards Long Island = weekend getaway = traffic!
4. probably 10 other reasons I can't think of now.
Now usually, a smart person would take the subway to get in and around of NYC. That's like the number one rule of life in a city like New York. NEVER DRIVE IF YOU DON'T HAVE TO!!! Coney Island also is serviced by the subway, but the walk between the subway and the ballpark after a game (which is like 10ish if one is lucky) is kinda creepy and is a walk that is best avoided if need be. On top of that, having to subway hop and train hop at that hour is hard because if something happens and a train is missed...the station's concrete floor provides a comfortable sleeping spot. So we drove....it took us three hours to make an almost 40 mile journey. We got there however.
And then it rained.
And thundered.
Lightning struck too.
But as with most summer storms, it lasted all of 10-15 minutes, the tarp was taken off the field and the delay took an hour. The game itself was a pitcher's duel with Brooklyn's Brian Harrison smacking a two-run double in the bottom of the eighth to give the Cyclones a 2-0 win. Overall, a great night considering the pre-game festivities.
Also, to make the birthday sweeter, as I log into Facebook I see a notification which says the following:
"_________ and x number of friends have written on your wall." :)
Now, I'm trying to keep a level head in the matter. A birthday is not measured by the number of people that write on one's facebook wall. However, I'd be lying completely if I said that I wasn't touched at all by the thought and kindness that people displayed by wishing me a happy birthday. Guys, I love each and every one of you! Know that, remember that. It really does mean a lot to me and it was the icing on the cake of a great day, no pun intended.
Although, ironically, I have not eaten any cake yet. Hmmm......
Sunday, July 24, 2011
Boston: Green Monsters, Weeping Willows and Kermit the Frog
The city of Boston is a bit of a mystery to me. Living an hour and a half west of the biggest city in New England, I have stayed away from the Boston metro area for a majority of the time. Also, when most of the family is from New York City, your mom is a big Yankee fan and your dad kind of likes the Red Sox (but is easily frustrated with them), the area itself is relatively uncharted territory.
It's pretty unfair to compare this to New York's Central Park, but it serves the same purpose. The gardens are a chance for the city folk to get away from the concrete and skyscrapers and relax under a weeping willow on one of several ponds. The multitude of joggers, people watchers, ducks, squirrels and birds create a great, relaxing atmosphere, especially on a day that saw near record-high temperatures through New England and much of the northeastern United States. Here, you definitely forget you are in a major city. Unless, of course, you look up and see the downtown skyline or see the huge tourist groups walking around.
I have only been into the heart of Boston a few times, mostly on class trips where we only went to one destination, spent the day there, and then left. I have seen the tourist spots. Don't get me wrong, Fenway Park, Quincy Market and Fanueil Hall are all important sites that must be seen at least once, but I have never really explored the "real" Beantown. I hoped to do so on this trip.
I met my friend near Fenway Park, where we would go on to tour the oldest and one of the most famous ballparks in the world, arguably. The area around Fenway is on the outskirts of downtown Boston. Straddling an area which includes Boston University and Northeastern, the area has a great mix of college city and big city feeling to it. You know you're in Boston, yet there's a different atmosphere to this part of the city.
A few stops on the subway farther into the city and one enters a much different world. As we walk up the steps from the subway station, a tall, New England-style church shoots up skywards almost right next to the underground entrance, as if the church is a guard to the rest of the area. From the brown of the church, the rest of the view is dominated by green. Across the street is the Boston Public Gardens, home of Paul Revere's famous statue.
It's pretty unfair to compare this to New York's Central Park, but it serves the same purpose. The gardens are a chance for the city folk to get away from the concrete and skyscrapers and relax under a weeping willow on one of several ponds. The multitude of joggers, people watchers, ducks, squirrels and birds create a great, relaxing atmosphere, especially on a day that saw near record-high temperatures through New England and much of the northeastern United States. Here, you definitely forget you are in a major city. Unless, of course, you look up and see the downtown skyline or see the huge tourist groups walking around.
After my friend and I went our separate ways, my mom and I made our way through the city's many tunnels and roads to the suburbs of Boston. The city of Lynn lies just a few towns north along the shore from Boston. It's an industrial town and home to one of the first two General Electric plants ever formed. Early fame, however, came from shoe-making and much of the urban growth came as a result of this in the nineteenth century. Shoe-making would also be somewhat responsible for Lynn's collapse, as fiery infernos spread throughout former factories in the 70's and 80's, burning down quite a bit of Lynn.
Despite the history, crime and poverty, Lynn is still home to baseball. The North Shore Navigators play at Fraser Field, located in a very residential area. The Navs are the defending champions of the New England Collegiate Baseball League, one of the most prestigious collegiate summer leagues along with the Cape Cod League. Another UT friend is a catcher on the Navs, so a visit was necessary. The ballpark is suitable for this level of baseball, but probably not for any higher level anymore. The atmosphere is family-oriented and laid-back, providing an affordable outlet to those that choose not to spend the money and time travelling down to Fenway. The heat seemed to not affect attendance too much. Baseball is the prime focus here. There's one (maybe two) in-between inning promotions, but baseball is the main event. One of the PA announcers sounded like Kermit the Frog a bit. I am not sure if this is the main PA announcer, but it was odd hearing a "normal" voice and then Kermit and then back and forth and back and forth. Overall, it was a great time and it's pretty cool to actually know one of the players.
Sunday, July 17, 2011
The School on the Mountain: Social Gift
The beginnings of middle school. The time where independence from the structured formation of elementary school merges with the all-around social awkwardness that encompasses every student in each class. We're all in the same boat. We're all coming to a point in life that serves as the take-off platform for what lies in store for the future. We're all in the same boat.
Part of me wishes I knew that more back then.
----
The school on the mountain in a historic area overlooking the valley provided a solid academic structure with a great athletic program and caring people overall. My first year at that school was memorable for probably more bad things than anything. It was a rocky time...
As I reminisce and am reminded of the trials and tribulations that I went through during my first year in middle school, the social aspect of life played a major role in shaping who I am now. Until then, I had never experienced such a natural social life. Until then, the people in my classes were people I had known for several years. Until then, I had considered myself personable, outgoing, and friendly. Middle school definitely showed how much work/help to my social life I actually needed.
As is the case I guess with almost every middle-schooler, I was extremely awkward. Thinking about it, we all were. None of us really had it all together, even though many would act like they did. I don't know, I feel like I was different somehow. I was really uptight, confrontational, gullible (maybe over-dramatic to an extent). Words like these were words I didn't think described me. But they did. There were plenty of in-class arguments, lashing out at many sarcastic comments, and just overall not reacting in a way that was probably appropriate for the situation.
I remember reactions mostly from certain incidents. To this day, I struggle to even look at that year's yearbook in fear of digging up old memories or old incidents that happened. I might revert back to my old habits of either blaming others for things happening or dwelling in self-pity for not reacting the way I should. It's dumb, I know. Back then, though, it was how I thought, for better or for worse.
I know this is not I should be reacting. Believing what I believe, I think that the events that occurred during my middle school years were previously planned to happen and they happened for a reason. These trials were put in front of me so that it could be seen how I'd react. Afterwards, I'd be able to change how I act and make myself a better person. This was a planned happening. I thank God that that year happened. I would not be the same person if I had not gone through what I went through. It helped shape me, mold me into the easygoing, personable, friendly person that I try to be on a daily basis.
To the people that I call friends and classmates from middle school: As I said, this was an awkward time. I absolutely consider myself to have been extremely awkward especially during this time. I want to both apologize and greatly thank you for my three years on the hill. The former because of all the blowups, overreactions, and drama from me personally. Simply put. The latter because, at the same time, my eighth and ninth grade years seemed to be almost mirror opposites from seventh grade. Thank you for making the overall middle school experience a (positively) memorable time for me. You guys are, in the end, what made that time in my life so important. I don't exaggerate when I say that this time helped to change who I am. Ya'll play a key role in that.
Part of me wishes I knew that more back then.
----
The school on the mountain in a historic area overlooking the valley provided a solid academic structure with a great athletic program and caring people overall. My first year at that school was memorable for probably more bad things than anything. It was a rocky time...
As I reminisce and am reminded of the trials and tribulations that I went through during my first year in middle school, the social aspect of life played a major role in shaping who I am now. Until then, I had never experienced such a natural social life. Until then, the people in my classes were people I had known for several years. Until then, I had considered myself personable, outgoing, and friendly. Middle school definitely showed how much work/help to my social life I actually needed.
As is the case I guess with almost every middle-schooler, I was extremely awkward. Thinking about it, we all were. None of us really had it all together, even though many would act like they did. I don't know, I feel like I was different somehow. I was really uptight, confrontational, gullible (maybe over-dramatic to an extent). Words like these were words I didn't think described me. But they did. There were plenty of in-class arguments, lashing out at many sarcastic comments, and just overall not reacting in a way that was probably appropriate for the situation.
I remember reactions mostly from certain incidents. To this day, I struggle to even look at that year's yearbook in fear of digging up old memories or old incidents that happened. I might revert back to my old habits of either blaming others for things happening or dwelling in self-pity for not reacting the way I should. It's dumb, I know. Back then, though, it was how I thought, for better or for worse.
I know this is not I should be reacting. Believing what I believe, I think that the events that occurred during my middle school years were previously planned to happen and they happened for a reason. These trials were put in front of me so that it could be seen how I'd react. Afterwards, I'd be able to change how I act and make myself a better person. This was a planned happening. I thank God that that year happened. I would not be the same person if I had not gone through what I went through. It helped shape me, mold me into the easygoing, personable, friendly person that I try to be on a daily basis.
To the people that I call friends and classmates from middle school: As I said, this was an awkward time. I absolutely consider myself to have been extremely awkward especially during this time. I want to both apologize and greatly thank you for my three years on the hill. The former because of all the blowups, overreactions, and drama from me personally. Simply put. The latter because, at the same time, my eighth and ninth grade years seemed to be almost mirror opposites from seventh grade. Thank you for making the overall middle school experience a (positively) memorable time for me. You guys are, in the end, what made that time in my life so important. I don't exaggerate when I say that this time helped to change who I am. Ya'll play a key role in that.
Thursday, July 14, 2011
Wild Horses
My friend Whit posted this on his facebook wall and I felt that I should spread this word along to all of you.
http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/237422647/wild-horses-and-renegades-saving-americas-wild-hor
The website if you want to donate at all
http://web.me.com/bslagsvol/Wild_Horses_%26_Renegades/Wild_Horses_%26_Renegades.html
A site describing what the cause is about.
http://vimeo.com/20632915
The movie featuring Willie Nelson, Sheryl Crow, Viggo Mortensen, Darryl Hannah and others
Feel free to spread this around to other friends and family
http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/237422647/wild-horses-and-renegades-saving-americas-wild-hor
The website if you want to donate at all
http://web.me.com/bslagsvol/Wild_Horses_%26_Renegades/Wild_Horses_%26_Renegades.html
A site describing what the cause is about.
http://vimeo.com/20632915
The movie featuring Willie Nelson, Sheryl Crow, Viggo Mortensen, Darryl Hannah and others
Feel free to spread this around to other friends and family
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
Life: the most important cliche you'll hear.
A doll. A toy pick-up truck. A new car. Tickets to the Super Bowl. An RV. Life.
What all these things have in common is that all are potential gifts. All of these things can be given to us without asking for it. Whether it's for one's birthday or a sweet sixteen or a retirement present. Five out of these six are gifts given to us by other people.
And then there's life.
No matter what you may believe about how life starts, it is a gift, no? No one is guaranteed a life in this world. I am just as guilty as everyone else. Daily do I go about living life as if I have all the time in the world until life ends. It is interesting to me, however, that we as humans don't realize how grateful we should be for this life until something terribly tragic or drastic happens. Until that death or tragedy happens do we realize how precious or short life is.
We should all be aware of this on a daily basis. Any given day could be the last. Yes, this is just as cliche-sounding to me the millionth and first time I hear it as it is the millionth time, but it is very true. It's just a cliche because so many people keep repeating it, since we always forget. We need to be reminded of this all the time. It wouldn't be repeated this much if it weren't important, now would it?
And as you go to sleep, the thought process should be to have no regrets about whatever happened in that given day. Take tonight: tonight is the last July 13th/14th, 2011 that will ever happen. Have you said "I love you!" to someone special or loved? Have you gotten everything off your chest (like that thing that has been on your mind and heart for a year and a half, but was too scared to tell that person immediately)? Have you fixed any wrongs? Are there still wrongs on the table that need to be made right? It's best to accomplish these things as soon as possible.
After all, who knows when the decided end will come?
What all these things have in common is that all are potential gifts. All of these things can be given to us without asking for it. Whether it's for one's birthday or a sweet sixteen or a retirement present. Five out of these six are gifts given to us by other people.
And then there's life.
No matter what you may believe about how life starts, it is a gift, no? No one is guaranteed a life in this world. I am just as guilty as everyone else. Daily do I go about living life as if I have all the time in the world until life ends. It is interesting to me, however, that we as humans don't realize how grateful we should be for this life until something terribly tragic or drastic happens. Until that death or tragedy happens do we realize how precious or short life is.
We should all be aware of this on a daily basis. Any given day could be the last. Yes, this is just as cliche-sounding to me the millionth and first time I hear it as it is the millionth time, but it is very true. It's just a cliche because so many people keep repeating it, since we always forget. We need to be reminded of this all the time. It wouldn't be repeated this much if it weren't important, now would it?
And as you go to sleep, the thought process should be to have no regrets about whatever happened in that given day. Take tonight: tonight is the last July 13th/14th, 2011 that will ever happen. Have you said "I love you!" to someone special or loved? Have you gotten everything off your chest (like that thing that has been on your mind and heart for a year and a half, but was too scared to tell that person immediately)? Have you fixed any wrongs? Are there still wrongs on the table that need to be made right? It's best to accomplish these things as soon as possible.
After all, who knows when the decided end will come?
Saturday, July 9, 2011
Welcome new readers!!
I was listening to the radio one night and it challenged the listener to think. What has God done for me this past week?
I was at a convention in Puerto Rico recently and one of the topics discussed was networking. Whether in a professional sense or not, the point put on the table was to keep in touch with your "contacts" at least once a month.
One day, I got a feeling to start this blog. The reasons behind it are, in a sense, a combination of the above ideas. Since becoming a Christian Easter weekend, I realize (or believe) that God is responsible for a load of things that I didn't/haven't/wouldn't give Him credit for. One HUGE thing I have to thank Him for is the act of providing me with a number of people in the right moment and at the right time.
(HINT HINT: That would be ALL you guys!!!)
I am fully aware that I didn't meet you guys by accident. This was planned and the fact that the plan was played out as intended is simply remarkable. I believe that He used every single one of you in some way or another to help shape me into the person that I am today, and for that I couldn't be more grateful. PTL....
Saying that, I have been very, very awful with keeping in contact with everyone. I felt very convicted of this at the convention and it has been nagging at me since then. One of the big reasons for even doing this blog was so that I could provide a constant contact with my friends, giving you insight into what I am up to. So, I promise to keep better contact through this blog among other ways.
SO: to answer the radio, what has He done for me this week? or this summer?
God has blessed me so much with the warmth and encouraging understanding by everyone that I have talked to about my recent change. I thought I would have such a hard time trying to tell people in the North that I had become a Christian. I, however, have been blessed to realize that everyone so far has been completely accepting and (in some cases) Christians themselves. I can't fully express how joyful and encouraged and blessed I feel because of this.
And with that said, for those reading this for the first time, Welcome to Untitled, the official blog of me, Robby Veronesi.
I was at a convention in Puerto Rico recently and one of the topics discussed was networking. Whether in a professional sense or not, the point put on the table was to keep in touch with your "contacts" at least once a month.
One day, I got a feeling to start this blog. The reasons behind it are, in a sense, a combination of the above ideas. Since becoming a Christian Easter weekend, I realize (or believe) that God is responsible for a load of things that I didn't/haven't/wouldn't give Him credit for. One HUGE thing I have to thank Him for is the act of providing me with a number of people in the right moment and at the right time.
(HINT HINT: That would be ALL you guys!!!)
I am fully aware that I didn't meet you guys by accident. This was planned and the fact that the plan was played out as intended is simply remarkable. I believe that He used every single one of you in some way or another to help shape me into the person that I am today, and for that I couldn't be more grateful. PTL....
Saying that, I have been very, very awful with keeping in contact with everyone. I felt very convicted of this at the convention and it has been nagging at me since then. One of the big reasons for even doing this blog was so that I could provide a constant contact with my friends, giving you insight into what I am up to. So, I promise to keep better contact through this blog among other ways.
SO: to answer the radio, what has He done for me this week? or this summer?
God has blessed me so much with the warmth and encouraging understanding by everyone that I have talked to about my recent change. I thought I would have such a hard time trying to tell people in the North that I had become a Christian. I, however, have been blessed to realize that everyone so far has been completely accepting and (in some cases) Christians themselves. I can't fully express how joyful and encouraged and blessed I feel because of this.
And with that said, for those reading this for the first time, Welcome to Untitled, the official blog of me, Robby Veronesi.
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
Robby's Rant: The media. A love-hate relationship
I am a journalist.
Hopefully, I am able to find a job that allows me to tell the news as it is and to give a descriptive account of whatever happens. However, unlike an athlete or doctor where there are many people to look up to, there are few media personalities that FULLY do their jobs correctly, in my opinion anyways.
One of my biggest pet peeves involves media personalities that feel the need to portray certain people a certain way, whether or not the person actually is that way. I greatly dislike paparazzi because all they do is follow celebrities around, trespass sometimes on their propery on personal lives, and the second something goes any form of wrong: they snap a picture of it and get money for that. This is not news. Nor is this good media.
The same goes with big time stories. Let's use the biggest story of the week (and of recent history) for instance: Casey Anthony was of course acquitted of first degree murder in the alleged killing of her daughter, Caylee. Now think: six months ago, had you ever heard of the name Casey Anthony? Probably not.
Now, do you know 100% that she did anything to her daughter in terms of murdering her? The answer should be no. Unless you are either involved or closely associated to the Anthonys.
This is where the media comes in. I don't know whether the police had little evidence in general or just leaked certain pieces to the media, but either way, the media (both social and physical) portrayed Casey in a certain light, which then caused the nation to come up with their own opinions. And for the most part, everyone hates Casey and thinks she should be convicted or worse, even though we know VERY little about what really happened.
As the media so greatly established, Casey obviously did things like party and lie and change her story that we may think of as the "not normal" way of reacting to one's daughter's death. However, when the media exposes JUST this information (very little actual evidence--not that the prosecution had much or anything--> see: ACQUITTAL), the American public are then able to make judgments based on what they see and read about.
This leads to the nationwide feeling of shock and utter confusion after the acquittal. Everyone saw what Casey did post-death and felt like she got away with murder.
Now, I don't know if she is guilty or not (The only people that do are either dead or are recently not guilty), but I believe that there has to be solid evidence in order for any conviction to be made. Our law and judicial system is pretty much awesome because of this. One cannot (or at least should not) judge a person based on what the media puts out there because usually there is SO much more to a story than what is shown.
Chalk this one up to the prosecution and the investigators dropping the ball. Obviously there was not enough evidence for the jury to say guilty or they would have. These are not stupid people. There was a skeleton, statements, and other (circumstantial) evidence. This is quite a bit to have for a case that has been multiple years since it happened. Police have solved cases with much less, sometimes with no body (look it up or watch Investigation Discovery. Either way.).
This lack of evidence led the media to show what little they had becuase anything beats nothing when ratings season comes around. As long as ratings are up, it seems that it doesn't matter who is harmed in the process. This isn't the first time nor will it be the last time. Nor will this be the end of Casey in the media. For months or years down the road, Casey will be the talk of newscasts nationwide, as well as the talk of haters who, in their opinion, think she killed Caylee, whether there is evidence or not.
I guess the saddest part for me is looking on Facebook and seeing statuses saying things like "Florida! You let a killer go free!" or "that jury sucked ass hard!!!" or even "chloroforming casey anthony brb" and "Pretty sure the jury is on drugs or something" and "Proof that our judicial system is crap". It makes me sick that people tend to flip flop based on one trial that they don't agree with in their opinion.
It is alright to have opinions, just throw in a little common sense with it, do you mind? Thank you! :) Good Night!
Hopefully, I am able to find a job that allows me to tell the news as it is and to give a descriptive account of whatever happens. However, unlike an athlete or doctor where there are many people to look up to, there are few media personalities that FULLY do their jobs correctly, in my opinion anyways.
One of my biggest pet peeves involves media personalities that feel the need to portray certain people a certain way, whether or not the person actually is that way. I greatly dislike paparazzi because all they do is follow celebrities around, trespass sometimes on their propery on personal lives, and the second something goes any form of wrong: they snap a picture of it and get money for that. This is not news. Nor is this good media.
The same goes with big time stories. Let's use the biggest story of the week (and of recent history) for instance: Casey Anthony was of course acquitted of first degree murder in the alleged killing of her daughter, Caylee. Now think: six months ago, had you ever heard of the name Casey Anthony? Probably not.
Now, do you know 100% that she did anything to her daughter in terms of murdering her? The answer should be no. Unless you are either involved or closely associated to the Anthonys.
This is where the media comes in. I don't know whether the police had little evidence in general or just leaked certain pieces to the media, but either way, the media (both social and physical) portrayed Casey in a certain light, which then caused the nation to come up with their own opinions. And for the most part, everyone hates Casey and thinks she should be convicted or worse, even though we know VERY little about what really happened.
As the media so greatly established, Casey obviously did things like party and lie and change her story that we may think of as the "not normal" way of reacting to one's daughter's death. However, when the media exposes JUST this information (very little actual evidence--not that the prosecution had much or anything--> see: ACQUITTAL), the American public are then able to make judgments based on what they see and read about.
This leads to the nationwide feeling of shock and utter confusion after the acquittal. Everyone saw what Casey did post-death and felt like she got away with murder.
Now, I don't know if she is guilty or not (The only people that do are either dead or are recently not guilty), but I believe that there has to be solid evidence in order for any conviction to be made. Our law and judicial system is pretty much awesome because of this. One cannot (or at least should not) judge a person based on what the media puts out there because usually there is SO much more to a story than what is shown.
Chalk this one up to the prosecution and the investigators dropping the ball. Obviously there was not enough evidence for the jury to say guilty or they would have. These are not stupid people. There was a skeleton, statements, and other (circumstantial) evidence. This is quite a bit to have for a case that has been multiple years since it happened. Police have solved cases with much less, sometimes with no body (look it up or watch Investigation Discovery. Either way.).
This lack of evidence led the media to show what little they had becuase anything beats nothing when ratings season comes around. As long as ratings are up, it seems that it doesn't matter who is harmed in the process. This isn't the first time nor will it be the last time. Nor will this be the end of Casey in the media. For months or years down the road, Casey will be the talk of newscasts nationwide, as well as the talk of haters who, in their opinion, think she killed Caylee, whether there is evidence or not.
I guess the saddest part for me is looking on Facebook and seeing statuses saying things like "Florida! You let a killer go free!" or "that jury sucked ass hard!!!" or even "chloroforming casey anthony brb" and "Pretty sure the jury is on drugs or something" and "Proof that our judicial system is crap". It makes me sick that people tend to flip flop based on one trial that they don't agree with in their opinion.
It is alright to have opinions, just throw in a little common sense with it, do you mind? Thank you! :) Good Night!
Friday, July 1, 2011
My Testimony
The first week of one's first year of college is always an experience. Whether you make it out to be a good one or not, the first week of the year always sets the stage for what is to come in your first year and the rest of the time in college in some way or another. For some people, the first week is just another week that doesn't impact their time in college. For others, however, the events that play out in that first week are crucial to show what kind of year the first year will be.
For me, the latter happened.
Coming into the University of Tennessee, certain odds were not in my favor. I was the only person from my school, knew nobody else attending UT, and, until I met a few people, knew nobody from my entire region. I was a true yankee coming down to the South and the heart of the Bible Belt. A completely different world.
The first Monday of the year came by like many August days do: mid-90's weather and hundreds upon thousands of students sprawled over acres and acres of campus, trying to find their way around everything. My roommate, who I had only known for about a day prior, decided to go get some lunch when a voice called us from a tent from VFC, saying "Hey! You guys want a free water?" On said day in August, we couldn't resist. So we went over. And so it all begins...
The catch of this tent was that in order to get the free water, each person had to fill out a survey. Simple enough. I noticed that the survey asked a lot of questions regarding Christianity. It was then that I realized that VFC stood for "Volunteers for Christ." It didn't mean much at the time, so I just filled the survey out, got my water and went to lunch. I would have forgotten about it, but one of the guys there mentioned a game of Ultimate happening later in the day. I couldn't resist Ultimate, just like I couldn't resist a free water. So I went to Ultimate.
See, at that point, the only things I had known about religious groups on campus was what I thought were the same of fraternities and sororities. They want members, so they'll do anything and everything to get you aborad, but later on if one doesn't follow the rules (or doesn't agree with the beliefs), then that person will be kicked out and never spoken to again by that group. For me, I didn't want to be backstabbed weeks into the year and then made to start over in settling into life at college. For weeks into the year, I was terrified of both VFC and Chi Alpha (another group I had become friends with) because of these reasons, no matter how foolishly stupid they might have been.
My change was a process, and definitely not an easy one. I started to believe the day between Good Friday and Easter this past April (I guess that would be 4/23/10). I can't pinpoint an exact moment, but it was definitely between the time I hiked down from my weekend in the Smokies and Church the next morning. I can't explain the feeling of realizing that I needed Christ in my life. It was not the emotional turnaround that I thought it would be (but trust me, there were a lot of those! Ask anyone in VFC/Chi Alpha). Granted some people do feel those emotional changes, but it was simply an epiphany--a realization of what I had needed.
There was a time span of about eight months from the time I first learned about Christianity to my salvation. Those eight months were filled with sermons, teachings, conversations, and plenty of other moments that shaped me into what I am now and showed me of another world different than what I had known prior. I haven't felt happier now that I have become a Christian. I know that I cannot do this on my own. I am a sinful, prideful person that needs help. It's just that with me, and every other Christian, the help can only come from the One and Only God. I believe that He sent His Son to die for us, to take all the sins and wrath that we deserved. I believe that when He died on the cross, our sins were forgiven. We are given a "Get-out-of-jail-free card." This doesn't mean that we think we can do whatever we want. That would be taking that card for granted. I am very aware of how special of a gift this is for us. For me. I am a sinner and will be a sinner for a long, long time. However, that's okay with me because I am thankful that God has forgiven me on a daily basis. I can't explain the feeling fully of knowing this, but the word 'joy' doesn't seem the same after realizing all of this.
I am very, very aware that all people on this earth are raised with different values, different morales and different beliefs. Of course, if people can understand this and understand Him, great! But in reality, many people do not believe this. One of the biggest things I want everyone that reads this is to understand what I believe now. I completely understand if you do not agree with me, but, if at all possible, any form of understanding would be greatly appreciated. So far, everyone I have talked to and told about this has been VERY supportive and I couldn't be more blessed than to know that my non-Christian friends are okay with it and alright with my decision.
I am very happy and blessed to be in my situation. It was a process to get here and it will be an even bigger and more arduous process to sustain it, but I know it will all serve a greater good and be worth it in the end. Heaven awaits....what better finale than that!
For me, the latter happened.
Coming into the University of Tennessee, certain odds were not in my favor. I was the only person from my school, knew nobody else attending UT, and, until I met a few people, knew nobody from my entire region. I was a true yankee coming down to the South and the heart of the Bible Belt. A completely different world.
The first Monday of the year came by like many August days do: mid-90's weather and hundreds upon thousands of students sprawled over acres and acres of campus, trying to find their way around everything. My roommate, who I had only known for about a day prior, decided to go get some lunch when a voice called us from a tent from VFC, saying "Hey! You guys want a free water?" On said day in August, we couldn't resist. So we went over. And so it all begins...
The catch of this tent was that in order to get the free water, each person had to fill out a survey. Simple enough. I noticed that the survey asked a lot of questions regarding Christianity. It was then that I realized that VFC stood for "Volunteers for Christ." It didn't mean much at the time, so I just filled the survey out, got my water and went to lunch. I would have forgotten about it, but one of the guys there mentioned a game of Ultimate happening later in the day. I couldn't resist Ultimate, just like I couldn't resist a free water. So I went to Ultimate.
See, at that point, the only things I had known about religious groups on campus was what I thought were the same of fraternities and sororities. They want members, so they'll do anything and everything to get you aborad, but later on if one doesn't follow the rules (or doesn't agree with the beliefs), then that person will be kicked out and never spoken to again by that group. For me, I didn't want to be backstabbed weeks into the year and then made to start over in settling into life at college. For weeks into the year, I was terrified of both VFC and Chi Alpha (another group I had become friends with) because of these reasons, no matter how foolishly stupid they might have been.
My change was a process, and definitely not an easy one. I started to believe the day between Good Friday and Easter this past April (I guess that would be 4/23/10). I can't pinpoint an exact moment, but it was definitely between the time I hiked down from my weekend in the Smokies and Church the next morning. I can't explain the feeling of realizing that I needed Christ in my life. It was not the emotional turnaround that I thought it would be (but trust me, there were a lot of those! Ask anyone in VFC/Chi Alpha). Granted some people do feel those emotional changes, but it was simply an epiphany--a realization of what I had needed.
There was a time span of about eight months from the time I first learned about Christianity to my salvation. Those eight months were filled with sermons, teachings, conversations, and plenty of other moments that shaped me into what I am now and showed me of another world different than what I had known prior. I haven't felt happier now that I have become a Christian. I know that I cannot do this on my own. I am a sinful, prideful person that needs help. It's just that with me, and every other Christian, the help can only come from the One and Only God. I believe that He sent His Son to die for us, to take all the sins and wrath that we deserved. I believe that when He died on the cross, our sins were forgiven. We are given a "Get-out-of-jail-free card." This doesn't mean that we think we can do whatever we want. That would be taking that card for granted. I am very aware of how special of a gift this is for us. For me. I am a sinner and will be a sinner for a long, long time. However, that's okay with me because I am thankful that God has forgiven me on a daily basis. I can't explain the feeling fully of knowing this, but the word 'joy' doesn't seem the same after realizing all of this.
I am very, very aware that all people on this earth are raised with different values, different morales and different beliefs. Of course, if people can understand this and understand Him, great! But in reality, many people do not believe this. One of the biggest things I want everyone that reads this is to understand what I believe now. I completely understand if you do not agree with me, but, if at all possible, any form of understanding would be greatly appreciated. So far, everyone I have talked to and told about this has been VERY supportive and I couldn't be more blessed than to know that my non-Christian friends are okay with it and alright with my decision.
I am very happy and blessed to be in my situation. It was a process to get here and it will be an even bigger and more arduous process to sustain it, but I know it will all serve a greater good and be worth it in the end. Heaven awaits....what better finale than that!
Monday, June 27, 2011
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
I forgot to put this in the other one...things to pray for
-God gives me (and all other believers) faith and grace and mercy as He always has
- that everyone from NSCS got back home safely
- thanks to God for having me meet all those NSCS people.
- the opportunities/gifts that God has given us (work, friends, family, studying abroad, etc.)
- Jeremy and Melissa GOT MARRIED!!! that their married life is a faithful, God-fearing one.--> all the other marriages that have happened also
- gratitude for a UNBELIEVABLE NSCS convention!!
- New college freshmen's orientations
---AND EVERYTHING ELSE THAT I HAVE SEEMED TO HAVE FORGOTTEN!!!
- that everyone from NSCS got back home safely
- thanks to God for having me meet all those NSCS people.
- the opportunities/gifts that God has given us (work, friends, family, studying abroad, etc.)
- Jeremy and Melissa GOT MARRIED!!! that their married life is a faithful, God-fearing one.--> all the other marriages that have happened also
- gratitude for a UNBELIEVABLE NSCS convention!!
- New college freshmen's orientations
---AND EVERYTHING ELSE THAT I HAVE SEEMED TO HAVE FORGOTTEN!!!
...En Mi Viejo San Juan
One cannot say enough words, whether by Facebook status or wall posts or blog posts, about how incredibly amazing of an experience the 2011 NSCS Convention in San Juan was for all that were a part of it. While it is true that the events at the Sheraton were the whole reason for going down, the "downtime" was used for a whole other purpose: exploring the magnificent capital city and its surroundings.
The city of San Juan is a vibrant metropolis located on the north coast of the island, with the downtown area (or "Old San Juan") situated on its own separate island, connected to the main island by several bridges. The city is a "rich port" sitting on the Atlantic Ocean. Back in history, this was a potentially critical spot for Spanish explorers to come in and trade goods. "Rich port", when translated in Spanish, is Puerto Rico.
Chalk this one up to miscommunication. For a long time, the plan was to have the city be called Puerto Rico and the island be called San Juan (which means Saint John, as in Saint John the Baptist). However, when the cartographer put the information on the newly-drawn maps, he botched the names...Instead of Puerto Rico, San Juan, this area would forever be known as San Juan, Puerto Rico.
Despite this fluke, the CITY of San Juan is still a vibrant, historic city. It is the second-oldest English-founded city in all the Americas (behind Santo Domingo, DR) and would be the oldest city in the United States (founded in 1509). The colors of the city pop out like almost nothing else in the US (the closest I have seen in the US is in Charleston, SC). Strolling down cobblestone roads that are usually one-way streets, but still don't seem to be big enough for most cars, one often forgets that they are still on American soil. The city definitely has a Caribbean theme to it (obviously) and that creates a defined, different culture than that of its fellow American cities. The Spanish is omnipresent, causing even more confusing. And then, one sees a Wendy's or a Marshall's or an American flag and then the fact hits you that you're still in the US and it amazes you that much more.
The number one sight that all visitors must see when visiting San Juan are the forts. The two major forts, Castillo San Cristobal and Castillo San Felipe del Morro are part of the city wall that was built to protect the city from attack from either enemy Europeans or pirates. A majority of the wall didn't survive to this date, but there is a section remaining (forts not included) that is very easy to walk along, both on the city side and the water side in some areas. The forts make up the San Juan National Historic Site, Puerto Rico's lone site in the National Park Service, and they provide some of the best views of Old San Juan and the Atlantic Ocean. Definitely one of the best photo spots in the city...
And to think that there is the entire rest of the island there to explore. Part of me wishes I had more time and opportunity to go to other parts of the island, but at the same time, I am more than happy with the amount I saw and took pictures (4 whole Facebook albums worth) of while in San Juan. I'd rather have had the experience I had with NSCS and saw just San Juan than to not have those experiences and go around the entire island.
Yes, that is another shoutout to NSCS...I'm sure they have been bombarded with positive feedback the last few days, but they've deserved all of it, so they'll just have to deal with another one from me. ;)
To see my pics from PR, just go onto my facebook profile.
The city of San Juan is a vibrant metropolis located on the north coast of the island, with the downtown area (or "Old San Juan") situated on its own separate island, connected to the main island by several bridges. The city is a "rich port" sitting on the Atlantic Ocean. Back in history, this was a potentially critical spot for Spanish explorers to come in and trade goods. "Rich port", when translated in Spanish, is Puerto Rico.
Chalk this one up to miscommunication. For a long time, the plan was to have the city be called Puerto Rico and the island be called San Juan (which means Saint John, as in Saint John the Baptist). However, when the cartographer put the information on the newly-drawn maps, he botched the names...Instead of Puerto Rico, San Juan, this area would forever be known as San Juan, Puerto Rico.
Despite this fluke, the CITY of San Juan is still a vibrant, historic city. It is the second-oldest English-founded city in all the Americas (behind Santo Domingo, DR) and would be the oldest city in the United States (founded in 1509). The colors of the city pop out like almost nothing else in the US (the closest I have seen in the US is in Charleston, SC). Strolling down cobblestone roads that are usually one-way streets, but still don't seem to be big enough for most cars, one often forgets that they are still on American soil. The city definitely has a Caribbean theme to it (obviously) and that creates a defined, different culture than that of its fellow American cities. The Spanish is omnipresent, causing even more confusing. And then, one sees a Wendy's or a Marshall's or an American flag and then the fact hits you that you're still in the US and it amazes you that much more.
The number one sight that all visitors must see when visiting San Juan are the forts. The two major forts, Castillo San Cristobal and Castillo San Felipe del Morro are part of the city wall that was built to protect the city from attack from either enemy Europeans or pirates. A majority of the wall didn't survive to this date, but there is a section remaining (forts not included) that is very easy to walk along, both on the city side and the water side in some areas. The forts make up the San Juan National Historic Site, Puerto Rico's lone site in the National Park Service, and they provide some of the best views of Old San Juan and the Atlantic Ocean. Definitely one of the best photo spots in the city...
And to think that there is the entire rest of the island there to explore. Part of me wishes I had more time and opportunity to go to other parts of the island, but at the same time, I am more than happy with the amount I saw and took pictures (4 whole Facebook albums worth) of while in San Juan. I'd rather have had the experience I had with NSCS and saw just San Juan than to not have those experiences and go around the entire island.
Yes, that is another shoutout to NSCS...I'm sure they have been bombarded with positive feedback the last few days, but they've deserved all of it, so they'll just have to deal with another one from me. ;)
To see my pics from PR, just go onto my facebook profile.
Saturday, June 18, 2011
Finally, a place where geek was chic!!!
NSCS. The National Society of Collegiate Scholars. That's the only thing I knew about this prestigious organization. From what I knew, it was "just another" national honor society. From what I knew, I thought it would be just a bunch of nerds gathering on college campus across the nation celebrating each other's brilliance and intelligence.
Needless to say, I was wrong, naive and very judging. I regret and repent for that.
Don't get me wrong, I am honored and very blessed to be a part of such a group, but I received my information in my school mailbox from an organization I had never heard of, expecting to pay a certain amount for membership to a group I knew nothing about. Needless to say, my parents were very thrilled and eagerly said I should be in this group. So I agreed.
The annual convention, this year's being in San Juan, Puerto Rico, was a scary idea for me. Going on this trip meant that I would be traveling to PR with hundreds of some of the smartest people in the nation. Alone. It's a little intimidating, and I consider myself to be somewhat friendly and sociable. Why am I here? On top of that, my past experiences with networking, job searching and the like were very poor and minimal.
Welcome to NSCS, Robby.
I was nervous, no doubt, but I kept telling myself that God would provide and help me out. So I was relaxed. On the outside at least.
Josh Shipp of MTV kicked off the festivities Thursday night. I liked him. Funny, smart, REAL. What I liked most about Josh was how much he wasn't like other motivational speakers that went on about themselves and then regurgitated that info to all of us. It was a real guy with real problems and a real personality. Bad things are gonna happen in your life, so stop complaing about your (or others') life. REAL. It's not what gets you in the room, but what keeps you in the room. REAL. You don't have to be perfect to make a difference, you just have to be willing to step out.
Cliche? Maybe. Real? Absolutely.
Byron Pitts of 60 Minutes fame spoke Friday morning. He wasn't a funny speaker like Josh, but I loved how he brought faith and God into the mix (obviously! lol) Referencing passages in Matthew, Joseph and Psalms seemed to make it a little more relatable (for me at least) and it made sense when put in that context. "There are two types of people in the world: humble and those that will be humbled." Brilliant!!!! Loved it.
And then God did His work. Standing in the line to meet Byron took a bit longer than expected. Already halfway late to the next session, I didn't want to awkwardly walk in alone. I came to find out that someone behind me in line was going to the same room as I was, so I waited for him to finish, so I could walk in with him. I'm not sure what it was, but we connected somehow. Something about being the only two late made the foundation for a friendship to grow. I don't know. I can't explain how God works. Call it fate or whatever you want, but I love it! PTL....Point being, he became one of my good friends at the convention. And from then, I got to meet a lot of people that I probably would never have met.
I apologize to everyone that I went to school with years ago (JPS, AHS, EBS, WNS). I have been a horrible communicator to you all. I am awful at keeping in touch with you all and, as learned, I am destroying relationships in a sense that can help me down the road. They said it's best to contact old friends about once a month (if not more). I am not sure to this day why I couldn't ever do this, but I want to make a great attempt to keep in touch with people a LOT more. I am sorry.
Viva Puerto Rico! Thank you NSCS!
Needless to say, I was wrong, naive and very judging. I regret and repent for that.
Don't get me wrong, I am honored and very blessed to be a part of such a group, but I received my information in my school mailbox from an organization I had never heard of, expecting to pay a certain amount for membership to a group I knew nothing about. Needless to say, my parents were very thrilled and eagerly said I should be in this group. So I agreed.
The annual convention, this year's being in San Juan, Puerto Rico, was a scary idea for me. Going on this trip meant that I would be traveling to PR with hundreds of some of the smartest people in the nation. Alone. It's a little intimidating, and I consider myself to be somewhat friendly and sociable. Why am I here? On top of that, my past experiences with networking, job searching and the like were very poor and minimal.
Welcome to NSCS, Robby.
I was nervous, no doubt, but I kept telling myself that God would provide and help me out. So I was relaxed. On the outside at least.
Josh Shipp of MTV kicked off the festivities Thursday night. I liked him. Funny, smart, REAL. What I liked most about Josh was how much he wasn't like other motivational speakers that went on about themselves and then regurgitated that info to all of us. It was a real guy with real problems and a real personality. Bad things are gonna happen in your life, so stop complaing about your (or others') life. REAL. It's not what gets you in the room, but what keeps you in the room. REAL. You don't have to be perfect to make a difference, you just have to be willing to step out.
Cliche? Maybe. Real? Absolutely.
Byron Pitts of 60 Minutes fame spoke Friday morning. He wasn't a funny speaker like Josh, but I loved how he brought faith and God into the mix (obviously! lol) Referencing passages in Matthew, Joseph and Psalms seemed to make it a little more relatable (for me at least) and it made sense when put in that context. "There are two types of people in the world: humble and those that will be humbled." Brilliant!!!! Loved it.
And then God did His work. Standing in the line to meet Byron took a bit longer than expected. Already halfway late to the next session, I didn't want to awkwardly walk in alone. I came to find out that someone behind me in line was going to the same room as I was, so I waited for him to finish, so I could walk in with him. I'm not sure what it was, but we connected somehow. Something about being the only two late made the foundation for a friendship to grow. I don't know. I can't explain how God works. Call it fate or whatever you want, but I love it! PTL....Point being, he became one of my good friends at the convention. And from then, I got to meet a lot of people that I probably would never have met.
I apologize to everyone that I went to school with years ago (JPS, AHS, EBS, WNS). I have been a horrible communicator to you all. I am awful at keeping in touch with you all and, as learned, I am destroying relationships in a sense that can help me down the road. They said it's best to contact old friends about once a month (if not more). I am not sure to this day why I couldn't ever do this, but I want to make a great attempt to keep in touch with people a LOT more. I am sorry.
Viva Puerto Rico! Thank you NSCS!
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
It's crazy how life has changed from this time last year. I've done school like last year. I've had friends like last year. Life has gone on like usual. Except for one thing.
God.
I am the same person on the outside. Same old Robby. Well, not quite.
Internally, something has changed within me. I don't desire the worldy things that I once knew. God has entered me and I have become one with Him. He sent His Son to die for MY sins. It's personal. It has been since Easter weekend. It's not just a story in an age-old book about some guy that sacrificed Himself for me. No...it's more. It's my Savior taking all my sin and wrongdoing onto Him in my place. All the wrath that I should have, would have, gotten was all taken on this sent man. This man, the Son of God, Jesus Christ. He died for me. Words on a blog can give justice to what I am feeling. Joy, peace, love....none of it's enough. I feel more than that....I now realize that I have a "get out of jail free card" Not like a copout, because so many of you think that you can do WHATEVER because you supposedly have this card. I realize that not everyone has this card. The fact that we as Christians were GIVEN this card by Jesus dying on the cross means so much more than any non-believer can know.
The journey to get to this point in time (the friends, the stories, the convictions, the experiences) are all gifts from God. It was all perfect, and I can't or don't expect anything less of Him. Many a time have I lost my train of thought and realized that I am a Christian. I am part of the Family now.
So far this summer, the family seems to understand that I am a new born-again Christian. The details will unravel as time goes on, but they know enough now, and I am so blessed that they have reacted with some form of acceptance. I know this isn't necessarily the case with all parents, so it's that much more of a blessing to be blessed with loving, understanding parents.
I'm just that much more excited to be one with the one true God!!! Those that were with me through my change know exactly what I am talking about. Those that don't, ask me! I love you guys just as much as my Christian friends. I'd love to (and want to) tell you about what happened in Tennessee.
Adios amigos, I am flying to Puerto Rico for the weekend in t-minus seven hours. I'll blog from the Caribbean in the near future!
God.
I am the same person on the outside. Same old Robby. Well, not quite.
Internally, something has changed within me. I don't desire the worldy things that I once knew. God has entered me and I have become one with Him. He sent His Son to die for MY sins. It's personal. It has been since Easter weekend. It's not just a story in an age-old book about some guy that sacrificed Himself for me. No...it's more. It's my Savior taking all my sin and wrongdoing onto Him in my place. All the wrath that I should have, would have, gotten was all taken on this sent man. This man, the Son of God, Jesus Christ. He died for me. Words on a blog can give justice to what I am feeling. Joy, peace, love....none of it's enough. I feel more than that....I now realize that I have a "get out of jail free card" Not like a copout, because so many of you think that you can do WHATEVER because you supposedly have this card. I realize that not everyone has this card. The fact that we as Christians were GIVEN this card by Jesus dying on the cross means so much more than any non-believer can know.
The journey to get to this point in time (the friends, the stories, the convictions, the experiences) are all gifts from God. It was all perfect, and I can't or don't expect anything less of Him. Many a time have I lost my train of thought and realized that I am a Christian. I am part of the Family now.
So far this summer, the family seems to understand that I am a new born-again Christian. The details will unravel as time goes on, but they know enough now, and I am so blessed that they have reacted with some form of acceptance. I know this isn't necessarily the case with all parents, so it's that much more of a blessing to be blessed with loving, understanding parents.
I'm just that much more excited to be one with the one true God!!! Those that were with me through my change know exactly what I am talking about. Those that don't, ask me! I love you guys just as much as my Christian friends. I'd love to (and want to) tell you about what happened in Tennessee.
Adios amigos, I am flying to Puerto Rico for the weekend in t-minus seven hours. I'll blog from the Caribbean in the near future!
Thursday, June 9, 2011
Days 3/4: The rest of North Carolina
Sorry this is so late, this week has been busy.
The Blue Ridge Parkway is said to be one of the premier road trips and most beautiful scenic roads in the USA. The 469-mile road running from Shenendoah NP in Virginia to the Great Smoky Mountains in Tennessee/North Carolina offers some of the best views in the Eastern part of the country. Driving down this road, a serene, relaxing feeling comes over you and the views around every corner are simply remarkable. No highways, no traffic, VERY little capitalism, no modernization has come to this area, and I love it the way it is.
This section of the Appalachians is also home to small mountains towns (such as Boone, NC above). These towns are so homey and have a great Appalachian atmosphere that make life in the Appalachians what it is. The draw is the outdoors, right in their backyards. Nothing fancy, nothing exaggerated. Nothing like Pigeon Forge or Gatlinburg anyway...
(Above: Newbridge Bank Park, Greensboro Grasshoppers (Florida's A Affiliate))
(Below: Durham Bulls Athletic Park, Durham Bulls (Tampa Bay's AAA Affiliate))
In terms of central North Carolina baseball, the cities of Greensboro and Durham house their respective ballclubs in beautiful modern, brick ballparks in the middle of downtown. The Grasshoppers' home is a refreshing change from World War Memorial Stadium, one of the oldest stadiums in the nation (I mean, it is a memorial to the FIRST World War) The South Atlantic League affiliate of the Marlins took on the Phillies' affiliate, the Lakewood Blueclaws, this past Friday night. The Hoppers scored two in the first before the Claws took a 3-2 lead in the ninth. Greensboro managed to score two more in the ninth on a walk-ff Aaron Dudley single to win 4-3 over Lakewood. Greensboro is currently 34-24 in the Northern Division, one half game behind Blake Harper and the Hagerstown Suns with about a week to go in the first half of the season.
The Bulls' game was not as close. Durham hosted the Pawtucket Red Sox, Boston's top affiliate and they dominated. Dirk Hayhurst struggled, while top pitching Red Sox prospect Felix Doubront ptiched four innings of one-hit ball. Darnell McDonald and Lars Anderson both hit home runs over the big Blue Monster in left field, a la Fenway Park. It's funny...Durham's ballpark looks more like Fenway than Pawtucket's. Anyway, Pawtucket ran away with the 7-1 victory and both teams are now in the hunt for their division leads; Pawtucket (31-29) is third in the International League North, while Durham (32-27) is first in the IL South.
(Below: Durham Bulls Athletic Park, Durham Bulls (Tampa Bay's AAA Affiliate))
In terms of central North Carolina baseball, the cities of Greensboro and Durham house their respective ballclubs in beautiful modern, brick ballparks in the middle of downtown. The Grasshoppers' home is a refreshing change from World War Memorial Stadium, one of the oldest stadiums in the nation (I mean, it is a memorial to the FIRST World War) The South Atlantic League affiliate of the Marlins took on the Phillies' affiliate, the Lakewood Blueclaws, this past Friday night. The Hoppers scored two in the first before the Claws took a 3-2 lead in the ninth. Greensboro managed to score two more in the ninth on a walk-ff Aaron Dudley single to win 4-3 over Lakewood. Greensboro is currently 34-24 in the Northern Division, one half game behind Blake Harper and the Hagerstown Suns with about a week to go in the first half of the season.
The Bulls' game was not as close. Durham hosted the Pawtucket Red Sox, Boston's top affiliate and they dominated. Dirk Hayhurst struggled, while top pitching Red Sox prospect Felix Doubront ptiched four innings of one-hit ball. Darnell McDonald and Lars Anderson both hit home runs over the big Blue Monster in left field, a la Fenway Park. It's funny...Durham's ballpark looks more like Fenway than Pawtucket's. Anyway, Pawtucket ran away with the 7-1 victory and both teams are now in the hunt for their division leads; Pawtucket (31-29) is third in the International League North, while Durham (32-27) is first in the IL South.
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
Saturday, June 4, 2011
Day 2: Western NC/Winston-Salem
The haze quickly formed over the mountains surrounding Asheville and gave the region a warm, humid, yet comfortable temperature. After waking up in Asheville, rural North Carolina became the featured backdrop of choice over interstate asphalt and gas stations.
The downtown of a small, metropolitan Asheville gave a great, refreshing urban feel to an area defined by the Appalachian mountains. The small city acts as a jump-off point to the many small towns and activities along the Blue Ridge Parkway and around the Appalachians.
One of these places is Chimney Rock, a small town and namesake state park, which is home to one of the nicest viewpoints in Western North Carolina. The almost 500-step walk gives way to an amazingly beautiful view of Hickory Nut Falls, the tiny tourist town of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure amongst the Blue Ridge. This area of the country on the other side of the Smokies from Knoxville is a peaceful, serene area of the country. Simply beautiful. I can only imagine what Max Patch looks like.
The night was capped off with a game in Winston-Salem. The A-Advanced affiliate of the Chicago White Sox. the Dash play in the new BB&T Ballpark just outside of downtown. The majority of fans come in from center field and the fans can see inside the stadium as they are weaving their way along the manmade path of cones to the parking spots. The field is gorgeous, but it's built in a hole. I can only imagine what happens when in rains and all the water seeps downhill into the stadium.
The game itself was a pretty steady moving game until the 5th inning when Dash pitcher Andre Rienzo threw a high and inside pitch to Potomac (Washington's A-Adv. affiliate) batter Stephen Souza created a bench-clearing brawl for all of five seconds. The two created a mob at the mound, the mound dissipated, and then Potomac manager Matthew Lecroy argued for a good ten minutes too long and was ejected, along with Souza. The baby Nats went on to still win 8-5.
Justin Bloxom and Jeff Kobernus each had 2 RBI's for Potomac (19-34, 4th in Carolina League North), while Tyler Saladino, Ian Gac and Daniel Wagner each hit solo shots for Winston-Salem (24-29, 4th in Carolina League South).
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
A Mountainside Baseball Gem
Leaving behind the familiar streets of Knoxville for the two-month road ahead that was summer break, I didn't feel as sad as I might have felt in the past. There's a feeling of confidence that I feel inflicted by that makes me feel like everything is going to be all right.
After a great year of school, VFC and everything else, I needed this time between the school year and the upcoming summer to relax. To do things where I can take my mind off the problems in life and challenges that are to come and focus on the moment, and the things that will be given to me in the present. How do I fill this four-day gap? A quadruple header of baseball in the great state of North Carolina (Ok, are any of you really shocked by this?!??!?)
Every twist and turn along I-40 opens up to breathtaking view after view. The area is gorgeous, with trees and forests sprawling across the mountains and valleys of the border Caravan after caravan of trailer trucks come down the highway on a seemingly sequential rate. In almost no time, the city of Asheville welcomes us into its limits and a peaceful, quiet mountain city pops up out of the North Carolina mountain area.
Near the heart of the city lies historic McCormick Field, home of the Class-A Asheville Tourists, a Minor League affiliate of the Colorado Rockies. Here in the South Atlantic League, the players are a year or two removed from rookie status, the degree of play is good, but not unbelievable, and the fans give a sense of mountain hospitality to the ballgame. Fans call players by name and have real conversations with them, introduce them to their kids, or try to get an autograph from a potentially future major leaguer.
And Asheville has provided its share of Major Leaguers. From Eddie Murphy to Lou Gehrig to Babe Ruth, Asheville is responsible for 506 Major Leaguers in its history. The ballpark is on the mountainside, literally carved out of the mountain and features "The Blue Monster", a tall blue wall in right field, similar to its greener counterpart in Boston. The game itself was a bit sloppy, but overall dominating effort by the visiting Augusta (GA) Green Jackets, San Francisco's A affiliate. A 13-6 loss didn't deter the experience of baseball in Western Carolina. Tomorrow evening, the old history of Asheville gives way to the brand-spanking-newness of BB&T Ballpark in Winston-Salem, NC, and the W-S Dash.
Photos are on facebook!
After a great year of school, VFC and everything else, I needed this time between the school year and the upcoming summer to relax. To do things where I can take my mind off the problems in life and challenges that are to come and focus on the moment, and the things that will be given to me in the present. How do I fill this four-day gap? A quadruple header of baseball in the great state of North Carolina (Ok, are any of you really shocked by this?!??!?)
Every twist and turn along I-40 opens up to breathtaking view after view. The area is gorgeous, with trees and forests sprawling across the mountains and valleys of the border Caravan after caravan of trailer trucks come down the highway on a seemingly sequential rate. In almost no time, the city of Asheville welcomes us into its limits and a peaceful, quiet mountain city pops up out of the North Carolina mountain area.
Near the heart of the city lies historic McCormick Field, home of the Class-A Asheville Tourists, a Minor League affiliate of the Colorado Rockies. Here in the South Atlantic League, the players are a year or two removed from rookie status, the degree of play is good, but not unbelievable, and the fans give a sense of mountain hospitality to the ballgame. Fans call players by name and have real conversations with them, introduce them to their kids, or try to get an autograph from a potentially future major leaguer.
And Asheville has provided its share of Major Leaguers. From Eddie Murphy to Lou Gehrig to Babe Ruth, Asheville is responsible for 506 Major Leaguers in its history. The ballpark is on the mountainside, literally carved out of the mountain and features "The Blue Monster", a tall blue wall in right field, similar to its greener counterpart in Boston. The game itself was a bit sloppy, but overall dominating effort by the visiting Augusta (GA) Green Jackets, San Francisco's A affiliate. A 13-6 loss didn't deter the experience of baseball in Western Carolina. Tomorrow evening, the old history of Asheville gives way to the brand-spanking-newness of BB&T Ballpark in Winston-Salem, NC, and the W-S Dash.
Photos are on facebook!
Sunday, May 29, 2011
Final Weekend in Knoxville 2010-2011
The pictures are from the day's events: Cookout at the Cove/Fountains at World's Fair Park. See my Facebook albums for the all the pictures of today's events.
Things to pray for
-being able to trust God more
-mini-term's end
-jobs for people who are still looking
-those that have jobs use them to glorify God
-Marshall/Natalie's wedding
-wedding symbolizes that of church/Christ
-memorial day tomorrow!
Monday, May 23, 2011
Tranquility in Tennessee
I'm sitting in the ampitheatre on UT's campus at around 5:15 in the afternoon. The sky is blue with some clouds floating by. 70-80 degree weather outside, but the shade from the row of trees behind make it that much more comfortable. The blended iced strawberry lemonade from Starbucks is slowly melting, giving way to the strawberry goodness inside. There are very few people around....a biker here, a pedestrian there, a guy in a blue t-shirt that is literally running around in circles around me, running all over the ampitheatre area. And, besides a few birds, it is silent. VERY SILENT. Not really like that eerie or creepy silent, but more of a peaceful, calm, serene silent. The kind of silent that you would encounter if you were sitting on a beach in the Caribbean sipping a smoothie (or a strawberry lemonade). The only thing mis are the waves crashing onto the shore and slowly eroding away the beach. In just a few hours or minutes or maybe seconds, this tranquil moment will probably be interrupted by something. Anything. However, in this moment, it is just me and the world and God. All right here in one moment. Now, I'm not one for have "alone time" most of the time, but in this moment, I am content and happy and relaxed. i am at peace with myself and with God. In this moment, nothing else matters. Nothing about me leaving to return to the North in a week and a half. Nothing about the mini-term or the group project. Nothing. None of those worldly things. In this moment....I just feel so alive, alive, alive....Ok, scratch the last one. I couldn't help myself...sorry Nicki. These moments are hard to come by on a normal basis, but in May on a college campus, quiet time is prominent. And I kinda like it....
Saturday, May 21, 2011
I love sunsets....
SO MUCH! I mean, how can one not enjoy (or at least like) such a masterpiece created for all of us to ooh and aah at as we hang out with friends, drive down the highway, or look out from our bedroom window? The colors, shapes, cloud formations are all so unbelievably amazing, whether it's in Italy, Knoxville, or wherever. Sunsets make us happy. Opinion? Maybe. Truth? Probably. At least for most people that I know.
I love sunsets not because of the colors or clouds, yet these make them much more attractive and appealing. I love sunsets most because of the mood that it creates and the moment that it allows for deep meditation and reflection about life and what is going on. Even in the midst of hanging out with friends, skipping rocks into a lake down the hill from a business park and behind a shopping plaza, I still am able to go off to the side, sit on a little tree stump and contemplate, staring at the pink and blue of the already setting sun. The flares of pink mixing with the dark blues of the oncoming night provide an amazing spectacle to gaze at with all the attention focused at myself. It's quiet. It's peaceful. It's (dare I say) perfect. Well, sorta. It's a product of perfection.
It's definitely a great gift to just sit and take all of it in under a beautiful sunset. The events that have happened over this past year have been so extraordinary that maybe it's necessary to sit and take it all in. There's so much! God has gifted me well to give me all the experiences, friendships, talks, etc. to the point I'm at today. It's quite a feeling. I can't believe this current chapter will end in a week and a half...
Friday, May 20, 2011
Thursday, May 19, 2011
Hey again!
Alright, so I just simply moved my blog to Blogger for a number of reasons, one big one being the accessibility to my email.
For the prior posts, click here: http://rveronesi.tumblr.com
Thanks! and please follow me!
RV
For the prior posts, click here: http://rveronesi.tumblr.com
Thanks! and please follow me!
RV
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