CHRISTMAS

Erin and I have had a wonderful Christmas. I will do more to recap what it was like when we get home, which will be Tuesday; we are leaving Serena's place tomorrow. It is hard to believe we have been gone so long.
The kids are wonderful. I will always remember each one of them, as they all are unique.

COOL MOMENT

Last night I was reading a book with a five-year-old girl named Pamela that had bible stories in it. One page had Jesus on the cross. She pointed and started singing "Away in a Manger." I thought it was awesome she associated the two.

Before we came there was over 70% chance of rain for everyday. It has only sprinkled a few minutes since we have been here.

HAPPY FESTIVUS

Happy Festivus to you and yours.

FIRST FEW DAYS IN HONDURAS

Our first few days in Honduras have been great.

The traveling was not fun. Especially the 4-5 hour bus ride on an old school bus down dirt roads.

Since we arrived to Serena's home things have ran smoothly. Serena has been an excellent host. The three of us (Erin, Jessica Wires, and me) want to make sure and serve her as much as she is serving us.

Today was beach day. The aforementioned trio took the 5 children to the beach. There was lots of futbol, playing in the sand, riding on my shoulders (seems to be a hit for the kids, not for my shoulders, though) and of course swimming.

Hope to keep you updated. Thanks for praying for us.

MY CHRISTMAS PRESENT TO ERIN

This is what I gave to Erin this year for Christmas. It is a water color painting that Dr. Tim Hacker created. He is very gifted and I am grateful that he was willing to do this .
Erin was very surprised and amazed I had my gift for her a month early.

DANCING ELF DUO

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

DANCING ELF

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

A PEACE AND JUSTICE CHRISTMAS

I like this poem:

Have Yourself a Peace and Justice Christmas by Sojourners Staff

Have yourself a peace and justice Christmas,
Set your heart a-right.
Flee the malls and focus on Christ’s guiding light.

Have yourself a peace and justice Christmas,
Give your time a way.
Share God’s love, And serve “the least of these” today.

Here we are, as we pray for peace,
We’ll live simply and give more.
We care for those far and near to us,
Which brings cheer to us, once more.

God brings down
The haughty from high places,
And lifts up the low.
God cares for the hungry and the humble, so –
Forget the stress and let the peace and justice flow!

THE MOTHER SAINT

Mother Teresa was born in 1910 and died in 1997. During her 87 years she practiced religion that God our Father accepts pure and faultless. This is looking after orphans and widows in time of distress (James 1:27). Mother Teresa worked in Calcutta, India to care for many orphans.
It was not easy for Mother Teresa she wrote this in her personal journal about the hardships involved with her lifestyle of living among the poor:

"Our Lord wants me to be a free nun covered with the poverty of the cross. Today I learned a good lesson. The poverty of the poor must be so hard for them. While looking for a home I walked and walked till my arms and legs ached. I thought how much they must ache in body and soul, looking for a home, food and health. Then the comfort of Loreto [her former order] came to tempt me. 'You have only to say the word and all that will be yours again,' the Tempter kept on saying ... Of free choice, my God, and out of love for you, I desire to remain and do whatever be your Holy will in my regard. I did not let a single tear come."

Sainthood includes doing what needs to be done when it isn't easy. What a wonderful example of living for the dying and the forgotten. Mother Teresa truly was a mother because of the way she took in orphans. She was the mother of many. This mothering life came to define her. God bless saints who care that much for the suffering. I want to be one of them.

GOD BLESS SAINTS WHO FOSTER AND ADOPT

This is me and my favorite child at church. Her name is Halle. She is a foster baby currently being loved by Randy, Tricia, and Callie Lillard.
(Not to mention any number of Christians at Sycamore View on a given church assembly).

It makes me sad birth parents are put in circumstances to have to let go of precious gifts like Halle. It does make me glad the birth parents have chosen to give the child to a family who is more prepared for a child. It makes me glad that there are people like the Lillards who are willing to love a child for a short (or long) amount of time. It makes me glad that there are people willing to adopt children like Halle. I am sad that they are missing out on the very thing I am doing in this picture, though.

God bless saints who foster and adopt. I want to be one of them.

WHEN THE SAINTS GO MARCHING IN

"When the saints go marching in, I want to be in that number when the saints go marching in."
A famous line from a famous gospel hymn. While I want to join the saints on that glorious day when the trumpet sounds, I want to join the the living people who are displaying sainthood today.

I like the descriptions I have seen of the word saint. One being, "a human being who has been called to holiness." But my favorite being, "not just a believer but one who has been unusually transformed." I want to be that. I like seeing it in other people, it inspires me. In the next few posts I am going to bring to light some present day saints that I see in my life to go along with some saints that have already gone on.

I want to be in that number now and forever as the saints go marching on.

IN THE MIDDLE OF THE NIGHT...

Friday night when Erin and I were deep in slumber I started pulling the comforter off the bed. Not just pushing it off me, or throwing it to the end of the bed. I am talking I was sitting up pulling it off, it took some actual energy to do this. Erin awoke and said, "what are you doing?" I answered something about I am having a dream that I was supposed to pull off the cover. Her response, "I don't care what dream you are having, put it back." I went back to sleep.

This has taken the place of the most memorable Justin half asleep moment. This is when I continuously asked Erin what a "cameo coat" was. I have been known to do a lot of talking in my sleep (just ask my college roommate), but the latest incident has got to be the most memorable.

I'M DREAMING OF A HONDURAN CHRISTMAS

As I eluded to in the previous post, Erin and I are going to Honduras over Christmas. We will be there from the 20th of December until the 30th.

I am glad Erin thought to do this. The story is we heard Jessica Wires wanted to go: yada, yada, yada we leave the 20th. We will be staying with a missionary who keeps four orphans and one child of her own. We will be giving love and attention to these children during Christmas. We aren't necessarily there to be Santa Claus, although we will share with them. Our main objective is to show the love of Christ to those children and to encourage the missionary.

I will try to update you on what is going on. Also, I am toying with the idea of making a small documentary of the trip using our digital camera. Either way, I am certain I will have lots of pictures and stories to share. On my Christmas list from you is prayer for a successful trip.

SCHOOL SPIRIT

On this date 11 years ago people died in the high school I was attending. People were also paralyzed and a few survived their wounds. I think about that at least once a year, usually more. Yes, I knew everyone involved including the shooter who was in my first two classes.

In high school there are always the corny cheers about being "proud to be a Pirate, yes I am...".
Well at football games I usually wasn't. We stunk. But 11 years ago tomorrow I was proud to be a Pirate. Some students from the prayer circle which was the target of the shooting made a huge sign and put it on the front of the school which was surrounded by TV vans from CNN, NBC, CBS, etc. The sign read, "Michael, we forgive you." I don't think about that part of the story as much. I wish I did. That is awesome maturity from high school students, unfortunately I was too immature to be a part of that at that point in my life.

Heath High School has since put in a memorial garden, which is nice. But I wonder what happened to that sign.

CONSUMERISM

This is pitiful. I am not even sure what words to put with this.

I am going to Honduras over Christmas. I can't wait to get there. More on that later.

THANKSGIVING

I have been thinking about what I am thankful for this year. I have come to realize that I am not thankful only for God's love and the sacrifice of Jesus, but I am thankful for the life this compels me to live.

In the Old Testament we see examples of the writers of the Psalms being thankful for the law. Psalm 119:105 says, "Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path". But wasn't the law restricting and hard to follow? Wasn't it a bunch of difficult rules that were improbable to keep? That is not how the Israelites viewed the law. They saw it as a way to please God. They were glad to know they could be pleasing to God and glad to have the means to do it.

As for me, I am thankful for the life Jesus has called me to live. It is difficult sometimes. It is mentally draining occasionally as I have to try and remove myself from the American mind set I have placed on myself and view the world through a Christian lens. But it gives me purpose, I am not left to wander aimlessly through life, or work for self-gratification that leads to an empty life. It gives me energy and adds substance to my life. It gives me a hunger to help people that is never completely filled. I am thankful for the blood he shared, but I am also thankful for the life he calls us to live. I am thankful for the Christian life as the Israelites were thankful for the law. The Israelites were given a way to glorify God, a meaning to life. The Christian life does the same for me. I am not restricted by living a Christian life, I am freed. For that, I am thankful.

For Christ's love compels us, because we are convinced that one died for all, and therefore all died. And he died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again.
--2 Corinthians 5:14-15

CHRISTMAS PARTY 2008

CHRISTIAN COMMUNITY

Christian community as depicted in the Epistle to Diognetus:

...a people who are not markedly different from those around them in dress or custom; Christians, though, have a confessedly striking method of life. They dwell in their own countries, but simply as sojourners. As citizens, they share in all things with others, and yet endure all things as if foreigners They marry, as do all; they beget children; but they do not destroy their offspring. They have a common table, but not a common bed.

They are in the flesh, but they do not live after the flesh. They pass their days on earth, but they are citizens of heaven. They obey the prescribed laws, and at the same time surpass the laws by their lives. They love all men, and are persecuted by all. They are unknown and condemned; they are put to death, and restored to life.

They are poor, yet make many rich; they are in lack of all things, and yet abound in all; they are dishonoured, and yet in their very dishonour are glorified. They are evil spoken of, and yet are justified; they are reviled, and bless; they are insulted, and repay the insult with honour; they do good, yet are punished as evil-doers. When punished, they rejoice as if quickened into life...

Are we living Christian Community like the 2nd century church did?

CHRISTIAN POLITICS

Christian politics is not voting for the person whose party has convinced the nation they hold the morals of America as their platform. Christian politics is the church as a community and individual Christians being proactive towards the social issues in our nation.

Are those people concerned about gay marriage taking care of their own marriages and joining with the church in supporting those who are struggling with marriage? Gay marriage is not an attack on my family or any other one. In my opinion, divorce is the most dangerous attack on the family, substance abuse, addictions are other risk factors to the family "under attack", not people who struggle with homosexuality getting married. So what are those fighting verbally doing pro-actively with the church for the support of healthy marriage?

Are those people shouting out about murdering infants adopting or fostering? Or even financially supporting organizations that actually do something after babies are born to unwed mothers, or teenagers not ready for motherhood?

Are those people fighting for policies for those under the poverty line taking time to have a meal with those in poverty? Are they joining with their church in an effort to not only financially help, but be a presence of care?

Are prayers going up for people in Iraq? Or only votes cast? Or no thought at all about loving enemies (not to mention innocent citizens)?

The disciples of Christ were never called to make sure a faithful follower was in office. I dare say Jesus did not care who was in office. It was not worth squabbling about. Jesus' challenge to us was to live in a way the world recognize as different.

Paul never tried to make the laws of the land to where he would not be flogged and put in jail for preaching Jesus resurrected. I am sure he would have found the "morality" of the government of that day to be convenient. But, he was more concerned with the lives of Christians and those in need. As we can see in his letters he had enough issues to worry about in the way of unity rather than political loyalties.

Why allow something like loyalty to a political party damage Christian relationships?

Voting is not Christian politics. Living out the social issues you want to see changed or preserved is Christian politics. Being a city on a hill, the salt of the earth is Christian politics.

There is no such thing as a "Christian Nation", not the US, not Nazi Germany (who also claimed Christian Nation). There is a Christian community, though (by the way, it reaches outside of our country). And it has nothing to do with elections and it is where we should act.

WHAT DEFINES ME?

As most if not all of you know, I am a Cubs fan. So I am supposed to write a blog post giving reasons they lost. Or maybe hoping for next year. Not today at least.
Natural comments I receive regarding the Cubs lets me know that people are aware the Cubs games are important to me, especially playoff time (even from people whose team did not have the best record in the NL; I have to at least have one defensive zinger).
This made me think. What do people see in my life that lets them know about my passion to serve God? What happens in the real world that would make people think, I should tell Justin Lewis about this. Opportunities to serve? Injustice that I would work to curtail? Things going on in Zambia? These type of things are things I should be defined by. Not the most knowledgeable or loyal Cubs fan in Memphis or something like that.

FALL FEST 2008

UNCOMFORTABLE BEING COMFORTABLE (THAT LITTLE VOICE)

That little voice in my mind is becoming more clear. No, it is not a mentally unstable voice I am hearing. I am thinking about how uncomfortable I am becoming being comfortable. My comfort zone lacks much want or need. It lacks a great deal of danger. It also lacks much of a challenge of discipleship. What I mean by that is my surroundings do not make it difficult to be a disciple. Only my willingness.

This semester (living in semesters can be pretty comfortable) I have been experiencing what it is like to be a counselor, to work with broken people. I see that many of these people do not have the environment to succeed as a disciple or as an individual. Growing up in a home that gives witness to someone dragging your mother down stairs by her hair does not cultivate American success (opportunities for jobs, college, earning a living) or more importantly learning about Christ (growing up in a safe Christian home). It does give a life experience that could create violence and a feeling of not being safe. It makes me realize my comfort is a "privilege" that gives me a head start.

What in my life must change to be a better disciple? For to whom much is given much is expected. What can I do to rid myself of being comfortable? I must leave my comfort zone by helping those in need. Make sacrifices of my time and money. Do things that show true discipleship. I want people to actually see something different in me because of the way I help people.

I want to make people feel the way a counselor at Hope Works made a client feel. Based on simply listening to this person's life story and being encouraging the client said, "If everybody were like you it would be a better place."

ZAMBRANO-NO

THE MOST "IMPORTANT" VOICE

Some of my thoughts on the anniversary of the Twin Tower attack:

Don't pretend it is a special day of morning for God. He doesn't live solely in America nor do we deserve a "wake-up call" (as some interpreted the attack) anymore than any other nation.

1,003,000 deaths in Iraq as of August 2007 due to War on Terror. A minimum of 62,000 civilian deaths. Nearly 3,000 for 9/11 (I am not discounting, just giving a comparison).

Yes it was tragic. It was given a lot of attention because it happened to the US. Americans are no more God's people than Iraqis. 9/11/2001 was no worse for God than a day of starving children dying (who have no voice). Or a day of innocent people being killed for our war on terror (whose voice doesn't matter). Americans are not God's special people who get God's special attention. America is not the most important voice God hears.

HOW DO YOU USE YOUR VOICE? (WHY I WON'T VOTE)

With the upcoming election it is a time as an American people to "voice" our opinion, right? Our democratic government has it figured out. People over 18 can "voice" their opinion on our next president. The next great leader of the free world (and any other country we decide to invade).
It may be considered our American duty to vote each election. I would rather be a disciple of Jesus. Do they contradict? Maybe so maybe not. I would rather express my voice through acts of kindness. I would rather express how I want my money to be spent by spending it on that and more importantly by doing something about it. Meanwhile giving to Caesar what is Caesars, because that is what we have to do. If you have a passion to support education, do it. If you have a desire to keep your money- do the best you can at building an empire and express your voice that way. How about this, if you want to care for the poor don't wait on the government and complain about welfare. Do your part. Interested in international affairs? You get my point. Express your voice through actions that is what we are called to do anyway. Volunteer, show love and compassion, leave your comfort zone, and give your money away.
Today I decided not to vote. Why divide myself from people I like who may vote differently based on political choice(yes I still like people who choose to vote)? Why not just try to inspire through the voice I choose to use; a voice that comes from discipleship? This is the best I can do.
I plan to continue a series of blog posts on "voices".

BACK IN THE DAY

Every time I look at this picture it makes me laugh, well snicker at least. It was taken a nearly two years ago at a HUGSR event. I came across it recently and thought I would share. It was quite a privilege to play along with the talented Jason Whaley.

QUARTER LIFE CRISIS

Today I am 1/4 a hundred years old. In that amount of time...
I have been a Christian just under 15 years.
I have been in school 20 years.
I have been married just over three years.
I spent 22.5 years in KY
Lived 18.5 years in Paducah

Lived all but .5 in the same house. This was spent in an apartment with my wife.
I spent 4 years in Murray in three dorm rooms and two houses.
I have been in TN for 2.5 years (also the amount of time I have been in grad school).
I spent 12 years playing organized soccer (7 of it being club soccer).
I have been a Cubs fan around 17 years.
I have been a University of Kentucky Wildcats fan for exactly 25 years.

I have been an Indianapolis Colts fan for around 5 years.

I have been to six major league baseball parks and four minor league parks.

I have a picture of my name on the sign at Wrigley Field. It was taken exactly 15 years ago.

I have worked in two libraries.
I have been to 4 countries (not including airports).
I have been to 20 states.

I have been to church camp three times as a counselor. Never as a camper.

I have owned the same car since I was 16. It has survived two wrecks (but no tickets).

I was voted Most Friendly in Heath High School's graduating class of 2001.
I coached a sorority soccer team (while in college).

I have seen every episode of Seinfeld at least 5 times, I hadn't watched an episode until reruns.

I have been interviewed in the Paducah Sun in regards to riding my bike.
I have gone 19 months with one haircut. It was after 12 months.
I have performed stand up comedy once.

SUMMER SUMMARY

This summer was set up to be one of the most memorable summers I have ever experienced. It unfolded that way, in positive and negative. To get the negative out of the way I must mention that my second trip to Wrigley and first since I was ten didn't happen because of the train mix up as previously recorded. The Ben Folds concert didn't happen because it rained. Bummer.
There was much more positive action, however. I got to spend 27 days in Africa. It was an incredible experience. I got to learn a new culture and create friendships that otherwise would not have happened. Not long after Zambia, I attended church camp with Sycamore View. This was a wonderful experience and a great venue to create and deepen some relationships with people at church. I did have to go to school for a bit, but the class was one of my favorite classes I have had in grad school, so even school was a pleasure. Erin and I celebrated 3 years of marriage in July, but not in Chicago like we were planning.
My last summer as a student (probably) was a good one.

OLYMPICS--SWIMMING

Some observations on the swimming event.

Records are broken nearly every race. I think the swimsuits are too helpful, and I think the pool/water concedes faster times than in the past. Seriously.

Michael Phelps is a freak of nature, is a great swimmer, seems to be a good guy, I think he is clean, he is really fun to watch and the story is entertaining, BUT I don't see how he could have possibly won that 7th gold. I guess I can't doubt the touchpad technology.

BEN FOLDS NEW ALBUM SINGLE

I am really excited because this video is the first single from Ben Folds' new CD called "Way To Normal". It comes out September 30th. If you like Ben, enjoy. If you don't like Ben then you are lame. Just kidding.

ZAMBIA STORY 2

The second Zambia story I told was an example of how well Erin related to the children there. The Zambians on our medical team scheduled a football (soccer) game against a local Zambian team. A few of us Americans played in the game and several more watched the game, including Erin. Also among the spectators were several Zambian children. One child in particular took to Erin. He was about 5 or 6 years old and drifted over to where she was sitting. He walked right up next to her, then climbed in her lap. Before she knew it he was comfortably resting against her shoulder, just as relaxed as can be. It was really neat to see her interact with the children so well.

ZAMBIA STORY

Yesterday Erin and I were give the opportunity to tell people at church about how Zambia impacted us. It is impossible to communicate that, but we did tell them some of our favorite stories. We both told two stories. I will tell you one of the stories I told yesterday.
The story comes from an interaction I had with a man while working in the optometry clinic. The man was standing in line and started saying something to me. I couldn't understand what he was saying so I asked the interpreter what he was saying and the interpreter looked at me and said, "he is speaking in English". So I listened closer and heard him say our people are so grateful you have come here to serve us. He then went in to see Judy (the eye doctor) and got his glasses prescription and brought it to me. I retrieved his glasses and brought them to him. He tried them on, had an amazing reaction proving that he had not been able to see well at all. He then said I can see Jesus in you people, Christ is dead but today he is alive in you people. Although I don't know that man's name, I will never forget him.

COMING TOGETHER 2008

PLANES, TRAINS, AND CHICAGO

The city of Chicago has given us some grief in the way of travel this summer. First, Erin had to be held over night in Chicago on her trip to Zambia (while I anxiously awaited her arrival). First it was a weight issue with the plane, then maintenance, finally they blamed it on weather, I think.
That was not the only issue we had with the Chicago airport. On our way home there were two flights back to Memphis. Part of our group on each one. The first flight was canceled. Luckily we were not on that flight, even though we tried to switch to it because it was earlier. The flight we were on was delayed several hours.
The newest and probably the worst travel experience with Chicago involved missing our train. Yes we missed our train to Chicago. As many people know Erin and I planned a trip to Chicago for our anniversary. We were going just for the day to mainly catch a Cubs game. The train is overnight, so it was going to be an overnight trip to Chicago, spend the day, overnight trip back. It didn't happen, though. Our itinerary said 10:40. The train left at 9:55. A bus that was taking passengers to a point that I was told to arrive 15 minutes early for left the station at 9:15.
We tried to catch the train at the next stop, but that didn't work out. So we missed the train ride, and the game. Quite disappointing. I guess it will make a good story to laugh about later. Much later.

I AM RACIST

You will never relate with someone you fear or do not understand.
-Dr. Everett Huffard

This quote, coupled with my Multicultural Counseling course has forced me really think about how racist I am. There is no need for me to ignore the feelings I have of other races. As much as I know I should not fear or discriminate other races, I do. I feel like Paul in Romans. I do what I don't want to, I don't do what I should. I can talk the talk with the best of them when it comes to showing respect for minorities and making a concentrated effort to helping the poor in Memphis. However, what is it that I do for them? Wait until I graduate, like I tell myself? What barrier will I allow to be built after that? I am starting to act rather than just talk. It is a process I am struggling with. It must be a concentrated effort with me because it is out of my comfort zone.
Racism is more than the KKK and Neo-Natzis. In fact, in a recent documentary we watched in class a black man said he was more affected by racism displayed by people who are ignorant to the fact they are racist. I want to challenge you to examine yourself when it comes to the treatment of other races.

THE NEWEST CREATION

I LOVE YOU AARON COOK & MIGUEL TEJADA

Nobody scored. Sorry about the hatred Dan.

I HATE YOU DAN UGGLA

The Cubs have a good chance to make the World Series this year. That is the only reason I am watching an extra inning All-Star game. It is the bottom of the 10th nobody out men on 1st and 3rd after two Dan Uggla errors. This is following grounding into a double play to end the top of the inning. I hope this hateful post was written in vain.

I LOVE MY WIFE

Erin does a lot of things for our family. I am in school and so she works to support us both. She also is much more responsible than I am so she is our bookkeeper.
Erin is an incredibly talented as well. Not only is she well educated, she is a newly certified interior designer (not decorator). She passed a test that has a high first time fail rate with flying colors. She even got 100% on one of the parts of the test. It is evidence of her discipline, intelligence, and hard work.
Speaking of hard work and discipline, Erin has run two marathons.
Anyone who knows Erin knows that she in incredibly talented in the crafts. She is an amazing knitter and our apartment, though small and painted in a non-preferable color looks great because of Erin's amazing space planning and eye for decoration.
She has taught me to appreciate color. That is quite an accomplishment for someone who colored everything in black and brown in elementary school.
We have been able to travel some together and that has provided some of the best memories of our marriage.
Today is Erin's birthday, our three year anniversary is upcoming. I am so thankful for her.

FROM THE ZAMBIA BLOG

Wednesday, May 28, 2008

BLESSINGS

I often hear, "I am reminded that I am so blessed" in reference to an experience in a developing country. That comment has started to bother me. It has been a little while now that something about that graded on my nerves as I heard it. Finally, I was able to process it out with Joe today.
"I am blessed"= air conditioner, unlimited amount of food, TV, and a nice house. When we say we are blessed we are basing our blessings on material things. That is a shame. Granted, we would be ignorant not to recognize that we have more and our more makes things easier a lot of times. However, looking only at material blessings ignores what truly enrich our lives.
As Joe mentioned, slowing down our lives like is often done here can create positive relationships. I have been able to build relationships with people here because of the slowed down lifestyle. That is hard for us to recognize as a blessing.

Also, as one of the missionaries mentioned the people are more likely to feel dependent on God because they do not have 401 (k) plans and as structured life styles. This environment provides a context to develop a trust in God we are unable to develop.

I suppose what I am trying to say is spiritual blessings are what should be placed as most important in our lives. Measuring how we are blessed because we have more material things removes us from recognizing what is truly important in life.

IT'S A BIG WORLD

I am sitting here working on some stuff for VBS. I just looked up to stretch and I see my new globe. I have examined it a number of times since acquiring it last week. Although the globe is the size of a basketball it reminds me how big the world is. I go to Memphis, TN and it is just a speck on the globe. There is so much more out there to see, to experience. My time in Africa reminded me that there are places unlike I have ever come close to seeing. I want to experience more of that. I don't want to be locked into a dot.

CARDBOARD TESTIMONIES

Dr. Oster showed this video in chapel. I liked it so I thought I would share.

NOT YET

I can't bring myself to change the name, yet. Someday...

NEW NAME (FOR NOW)

My location simply means where I am in my journey. That includes physical, spiritual, and personal development. As I continue to form as a person the blog puts a pin on the map as to what is currently going on. There will still be plenty of jokes and sports, don't worry.

TIME FOR A CHANGE

Misplaced
|misˈplāst| |ˈmɪsˈpleɪst| |mɪsˈpleɪsd|
adjective
1 incorrectly positioned : a million dollars had been lost because of a misplaced comma.
• not appropriate or correct in the circumstances : a telling sign of misplaced priorities.
• (of an emotion) directed unwisely or to an inappropriate object : he began to wonder if his sympathy were misplaced.
2 [ attrib. ] temporarily lost : her misplaced

Misplaced in Memphis is not really an accurate portrayal of my life anymore. I don't feel like my presence in Memphis is incorrect or uncomfortable. A change in name has been a long time coming. Now I just need to determine what new name fits the blog. Within the week I plan to change the name, so be on the lookout.

BACK IN THE US OF A

Erin and I arrived in Memphis about 2 AM last night (morning). Thanks to Rusty for picking us up. Issues traveling but I won't go into that. Too frustrating.
I was not looking forward to getting back to Memphis. The traveling helped that along though. I was longing for my bed, any bed after all the hours in airports/planes.
I have so much to share about the trip. Not sure where to start. For now, I will just thank everyone who supported us in any way as we were on the trip. Broadway Church of Christ in Paducah has become even more dear to my heart after their gracious display. Many good friends were made on the trip. It was an amazing experience. More to come later.

LEAVING FOR ZAMBIA

Hey friends and family, I am leaving for Zambia this minute (assuming the plane takes off in time). I am looking forward to this opportunity to serve in a place that is outside my comfort zone. I appreciate prayers as I am traveling and while I am there. The travel is going to be gruesome, as I have never traveled overseas before. I hope to update anyone who is interested in the happenings of the trip on the Zambia Mission Blog. I am hoping my Cubs will still be in first place after my 27 day absence from watching them.
Also, Erin and I will be apart for 10 days. That is the longest we have been apart since we have been married. That will be difficult. Prayers for that are welcomed.
I am excited about my chance to experience another culture and broaden my horizons. I want it to be more than that though. I want to help these people and be a servant first.

CHANGING MOTIVATIONS

A while back I wrote a post about motivations. I am trying to do a better job recognizing the motivations behind my actions. It has been challenging and difficult in itself.
My next question is how to change motivations when they are not proper. I know that I should do things without expecting praise. How do I prevent myself from acting with the expectation of praise in the back (or front) of my mind? How do I change my mindset from, doing something just to have it done or for recognization rather than doing it to expand minds, or out of pure service.

BLUETOOTH .02

CHINGRISH

WHAT ARE YOUR LIFE LABELS?

Blogger allows the blogger to label their respective posts in a way that defines what the blog is about. Looking at my labels it appears that I choose to write about things the most that deal with my wife and sports. My blog is not necessarily a representation of my life the way a journal would be. I do not therapeutically write everything on my heart in my blog, so my labels are not necessarily an indicator of my actions, thoughts, etc.
If I had to label my life what would it look like? If each of my actions were labeled and grouped together what would accumulate the most "life labels". How we spend our energy is worth pondering. Service, entertainment, self-fulfillment?

CHINGRISH

Often imitated...sometimes not well...

GETTING CLOSE

Only a few more days until what I expect to be one of the best summers ever. I will provide details as it happens, of course. First up, Memphis in May music festival with some friends. Rockin' out with Ben Folds Friday night!

BUSY WEEKEND

Very busy and eventful weekend for the Lewis crew.
Parents came to visit. We had a good time. We hit up the Dixon, Putt Putt, the Peabody, Rendezvous, and Mud Island.
Today Erin has a wedding shower and we have Life Group.
Also, we named our new preacher at Sycamore View.

CUBS VS. CARDS

The St. Louis Cardinals are the main rivals for my Cubbies. They play in the same division and the "friendly rivalry" has heated up in recent years as the Cubs have been more of a threat in the division. Much is made of the length of time it has been since the last Cubs World Series. So, we have to find positives. This is one that helps with Cardinal fans who are friends and family:

SILVER LINING

After last night's defeat a dark cloud hangs over Memphis. It's not as bad for me, though. My wife and I were in the same ESPN bracket competition. The determining factor was last nights game, so I had dual interests in the game. If Kansas won, then I won the competition, but my current hometown team would lose. A team I have watched live this year (my advance scouting was lacking since I thought they would lose to Texas). I decided I would sacrifice the competition and root for Memphis, even though it would mean Erin would beat me in a sports related activity. All my hours of watching ESPN would be for naught.
I had all but conceded defeat and began to face what would be humiliation for an indefinite amount of time. Then it all changed and the universe has rightfully restored itself (how self-centric is that?) Now, I have scored higher than Erin and won all my facebook brackets. So, although the hometown team lost, I still gained. She is taking me out for smoothies tonight. The dark cloud that hangs over Memphis has a silver lining for me.

WEDDING WEEKEND

This weekend I spent time in Kentucky doing wedding stuff. Here are some pictures:








Chattin' with the groom.










This is me with my beautiful bride.

MAUNDY THURSDAY: ALSO GOOD

Maundy or Holy Thursday is today. This day in easter week gets less attention, I think. Although, I must confess that I haven't paid attention to any part of Easter week before last year. There were some pretty important events that happened on this day leading up to Good Friday and ultimately Easter. This day commemorates the Last Supper between Jesus and the Apostles, the washing of the Apostles feet, Jesus' mental struggles in the Garden of Gethsemane, and the betrayal of Judas. They are all very important aspects of the last week of Jesus' life and ultimately very important to us as Christians.
The instructions of remembering Jesus through a meal is something that is done by Christians today. Jesus' servant leadership of washing feet sets the bar high for His followers as we strive to be the people we were created to be.
The scene of Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane gives us a glance of how human and divine Jesus was while on earth. His human nature wanted to be protected from the sacrifice he must make for us. However, his devotion to God the Father gives us the example of following God's will, even when it hurts.
The most tragic event of this day is the betrayal of Jesus. Judas Iscariot's love of money should be a warning to us that earthly temptation is out there and can cause us to turn our back of Jesus. If an Apostle, a man who was with Jesus daily can be seduced, so can we. Tragically, Judas could not forgive himself and ended his life after realizing the wrong he had committed.
I think Holy Thursday is a day worth spending some time meditating on. It is a huge part of the narrative of God.

GO 'CATS

Last time the 'Cats played Marquette we were a 1 and D-Wade triple-doubled us out of the tourney. No expectations this year, UK and their fans are just glad to be there.
Speaking of expectations. Last year I picked 15 of 16 sweet sixteen teams.

DON'T FORGET TO WEAR (BE) GREEN

March 17th is St. Patrick's day. The day people wear green to avoid being pinched (or avoid wearing green if being pinched is more your bag). So on this celebration of greenness I thought it would be good to incorporate another kind of green. Environmentalism. Here are a few easy ways to be more green:
1. Don't use shopping bags. Bring your own or carry the item out.
2. Recycle. Googleing recycle centers in your area is sure to give some locations to take your paper, cans, and plastics.
3. Unplugging unused electronics when not in use saves earth resources and money.

LET IT SNOW

This weekend reminded me how much I enjoy playing in the snow.


Friday afternoon we got a good snow in Memphis. After a good snowball fight Jacob, Glen, and I built a snowman as you can see.





















This picture shows the remnants of Saturday. I enjoyed a time of sledding and snowball fighting Saturday afternoon.

CULTURAL GARB

MOTIVATION

What motivates people? This thought came from a conversation I had about the election. I brought up the question of why a person ever want to run for president. Do they run because they really feel like they can make a difference, or is it an ego, narcissism thing? When I step back and view the election process it seems like a race to win and then it's over. The process of winning the race is no-holds barred, then it is over. The point of the whole thing is just to win.
This makes me think, more importantly, what motivates me to do what I do. Do I do things for personal victories, or boosts of my ego? I hope not. I want to do things to make a difference, not just to say I have done them. I hope my motivation of service is to make a positive outcome for other people.

BASEBALL: ALREADY AND NOT YET

I live close to a high school and the other day I heard a couple "pings". I realized that they were bats and they were practicing softball. Yes I know, it was only softball, but still I felt for the first time that baseball season is coming. Today I have been been encouraged further that the season is approaching. I surfed over to cubs.com and saw that they were in the middle of a game! A spring training live box score was before my eyes. Spring training is already underway. It felt even better when I saw 8-1 Cubs. Some people say baseball season is too long. Well, I really like baseball and cannot get enough. Can't wait for the real season to start. I got MLBTV for Christmas it is going to be sweeeeeettt.

I AM NO POLITICIAN, BUT...

First of all, I can't believe that I am writing a blog on politics.
I am no politician but, I can get the feeling of a properly played political tactic. After all, that is how my age brackets votes are won. It is no doubt Obama is a favorite in my demographic. He is trendy, nice smile, warm, and is not negative. He offers us "hope". Our generation is not really sure what we want, but it isn't what we have right now, and he provides the "something different" attitude.
His opponent, Hillary however has all of a sudden gotten dirty. I remember little from the elections Bill was a part of. All I remember is Bill's appearance on MTV playing some jazz music. Good tactic for the young generation, let's elect someone cool. Along the same lines as Obama, laid back, approachable. Hillary is more rigid, and now the only platform I am aware of with her is Obama's speeches are empty and he is persona only. Anytime I see a Hillary headline, it always involves Obama. The alternate is not true, other than the occasional article defending himself.
This is a very bad idea for a woman. Men can be strong willed and could probably get away with more aggressive mudslinging (although I still am turned off by it). For a woman though, to be strong willed with men and aggressively stating her mind leads to a description anyone in politics (or in general) wants to avoid. I think the description is a um... witch, or something that sounds like that.
If it is possible for a woman to win the Whitehouse, confident compassion is it I guess, I don't really know. I do know one thing though-- the description of a strong willed, aggressive woman is not it.

THIS IS THE SONG THAT NEVER ENDS....

Okay, this may well come to an end someday, but this website is kinda cool for looking up any song you can think of and playing it for free. Just a little passing on of info to brighten your day. Click here to enjoy.

YOUTUBE ME

KNO KNITTING FOR ME!! (OR ERIN)

Erin is studying for a very important and difficult certification test for architectural interior designing. Although proud of her for pursuing this, it has given knitting a hiatus. That's right, Erin is not knitting until the end of March. So, you will not see any cool knit stuff being adorned. It has been very strange seeing her without knitting needles in her hand, but I admire the discipline. Maybe I should give knitting another shot...

SUPER BOWL POST 3: FINAL THOUGHTS

I was only able to see most of the 2nd quarter live in Dairy Queen (long story). I was able to hear the final failed drive by the Pats. Very entertaining radio.
Pretty neat that Manning brothers won in consecutive years. As a Peyton fan, I am really glad he won first. There would be all kinds of talk about who the better Manning was if that was not the case.
Incredible catch.
Lots of hits on Brady.
18-1 is not quite 19-0. I am pleasantly surprised at how meaningless the regular season is being treated.

I AM SAM

This is me with my new little friend Sam Martin.  Sam lives in Huntsville, Alabama with his parents, Josh and Beth.  Erin and I stayed with the Martins this weekend and had a good visit.

GROUNDHOG DAY

Happy Groundhog day my friends. I just learned that Phil saw his shadow which means six more weeks of winter. As a Memphian, I am still waiting for winter to begin. Ever wondered what the deal-eo was with Groundhog Day? Here ya go: All you need to know about Groundhog Day.

SUPER BOWL POST 2

Why does the Super Bowl always have to be played in warm weather or indoors?  Everyone talks about how great playoff football is in the snow, wouldn't the Super Bowl be that much more fun to watch?  I realize that people putting down thousands of dollars to go to the game probably don't want to sit in the snow four and a half hours, but phooey on them.  Play the Super Bowl in Buffalo or Green Bay.  That would make it real winter football.  

GOOGLE ISN'T PERFECT

Go to Google and search "Find Chuck Norris". Click on the first result.
A friend of mine from Kentucky gave me this information.

This post broke an all-time record for most posts in a month on Misplaced in Memphis.  Quite a significant post.

ANOTHER ONE BITES THE ICE

A story about me you probably don't care about:
Saturday morning was cold at 7:30 AM.  As I found out soon after stepping outside, it was icy too.  I was heading to the classroom building to fulfill my duty of "after hours maintenance", which in this case was unlocking.  I had my hands buried in my jacket pockets because it was cold as I have previously mentioned.  I move down the walkway and start to bound down the stairs when stair number three took me out.  That thing was solid ice.  I fell back on my toosh banged my lower back and just barely hit my head.  I also attained this cool scar that I had to show off.  My arm really really hurt just after it happened.  It is better now, though.  

ME, MYSELF, AND I

I do not like it when people use myself incorrectly.  The worst part about it is that professionals on television are among those I hear using it incorrectly. If you are unsure of what I mean, read below: 

Click on definition for larger image.

From the New Oxford American Dictionary

FOREVER YOUNG

Erin often calls me a 24 year old senior citizen. Well, she can no longer do that. I just completed the Real Age test. My real age, based on such things as eating habits and friendships is a not yet ripe 19.7. The chart to the right tells you why.
I must say I was a little surprised at the results.

SUPER BOWL POST 1

My initial thoughts about the Super Bowl are:
I hate the Patriots and I hope they never win again in the existence of the NFL.
It would be really cool for Eli to win the Super Bowl, or would he "manage" the Super Bowl? What is the deal with the experts reducing Eli's performances to managing? A coach manages, a coordinator manages, players make plays.
I still hate the Patriots and I hope they never win again in the existence of the NFL.
The Pats will probably win.

GOT MLK?

Today Martin Luther King Jr.'s birthday is observed. It was actually last week but in order to provide a three day weekend for some, it is always observed on a Monday. Today I will observe that MLK was a man who stood up for what he believed in to the death. Hard not to respect that. I wonder what MLK would think about the state of racial equality if he were to come back for a visit? Are we closer to judging each other by the content of our character rather than the color of our skin? The law has created equality in civil rights, but have Americans fulfilled his dream?

SOMETHING'S DIFFERENT

Yep. Something is different. This is Misplaced in Memphis third edition. I thought maybe it was time for a little change. Enjoy.

WHAT'S THE DEAL WITH GREEN BAY'S AFFILIATE?

This weekend the Giants come to Green Bay to play the Packers. The Green Bay area has shown their support in a very unique way. The local FOX affiliate usually airs the greatest television show ever, Seinfeld, on Saturday evenings at 5:30. But, they are not showing it this Saturday because it is Eli Manning's favorite show. This gives Green Bay quite an advantage, I would hate for the opposing team to be watching television before the game.
But don't worry Eli,there are two episodes on TBS near the same time and all episodes are available on DVD if you really need your fix.

ESPN LAW

First there was ESPN; a channel dedicated solely to sports. Then there was ESPN 2 because ESPN could not cover all the sports needed. Then came ESPN News so we can have sports highlights 24/7. ESPN Classic then came along to give us historic games. Finally, a few years ago ESPN U came on the scene so we can have college sports 24/7.
Now I have a proposal for ESPN, ESPN Law. This could be kind of like C-Span, only dedicated solely to sporting figures in the courts. Roger Cossack could have his own legal explanation show live from Pepperdine. I am sure ESPN could find a way to get a camera in the courts so we could enjoy more than the same 5 second clips of athletes walking into the courtroom as their case is discussed for hours. Anyway, if this was the case then maybe sports could be discussed on the original television channels dedicated to sports.

RE-OPEN THE OFFICE

FAVORITE LEAST FAVORITE JESUS ENCOUNTER

My favorite least favorite Jesus encounter must be the "Rich Ruler" or "Rich Young Ruler". This text is found in Luke 18:18-23 and Mark 10:17-24.

What I mean by least favorite is that it is so challenging. I am much like the Rich Ruler. I do a pretty good job keeping the ten commandments. I was raised going to church in a conservative area of the United States where people are generally good and nice. I grew up following all the rules.
I can hear Jesus' response to me being one that is like to that of the one he gave the Rich Ruler:


"That is only part of the mission. You still have a long way to go my friend. Give away your stuff, put your trust in things that are above. Don't live for the things of this world, do things that have eternal significance (store up treasures in heaven)."

This is my favorite in times when I want to be the disciple I should be. It is a good motivator and shows me the way I should be living (which I need). The difference in me and the Rich Ruler is that I don't walk away sad. I walk away inspired. Although I don't always succeed in doing this, I give my best effort. As I write this I realize I could be doing more, this text won't let me go!

HOME GROWN DONUTS

You know how every city small or big has it's claim to fame? I used to think it was only smaller cities and towns. After living in Memphis I see that large cities do the same name dropping and event recognizing (Elvis, Loraine Motel, even Justin Timberlake).
I am from the small city of Paducah that is mentioned in the previous blog (although many people have heard of it, spell check evidently has not). Well us Paduchians have some things to hang our hat on such as the residence of a former vice-president, professional baseball player Steve Finley, and the contemporary Christian artist Steven Curtis Chapman who played a concert on my high school football field.
But I did not know until recently that Krispy Kreme originated in P-town. Yes, that's right donut lovers, I hail from the town that brought you crispy and creamy donuts. I didn't know this until recently reading a wikipedia post about Paducah. Where else would I find this kind of info?
"Wikipedia is the best thing ever, anyone in the world can write anything they want about any subject so you know you are getting the best possible information"-Micheal Scott of The Office.
Now the story, Vernon Carver Rudolph, the inventor of Krispy Kreme was involved with a local shop owned by his uncle. He turned the shop's assets into a secret recipe that was later marketed as Krispy Kreme in North Carolina. The funny thing is Paducah has never had a Krispy Kreme store, but according to the Wiki Paducah donut stores have been serving similar donuts since World War II. I also heard a rumor about the coffee shop next door that took their recipe to Seattle...

REWIND AND RECAP

I just realized that I gave my readers nothing through the holidays. I had a great Christmas and I am going to recap it quickly before I have to return to school. Erin has an awesome job when it comes to time off. Because of this we were gone the entire week of Christmas. Sunday (Festivus) felt a lot like Christmas eve because on Monday morning we had breakfast with some of our best friends-Rusty and Rachel, then Erin and I exchanged gifts. I scored some great gifts but I was more pleased to see Erin enjoy all the gifts I got for her (even the clothes, go me). After that it was fourish days in Kentucky between Paducah and Murray. After good visits with each of our families we took a mini-vacation with Erin's brother and his fiancee.
We went to Chattanooga for the weekend and had a great time. We returned to Memphis for New Year stuff. Now, back to reality.

HIGH FIVE

While in the car returning home from Christmas vacation I popped in the blue Weezer CD. Then I realized it was 14 years old. Over half my life I have enjoyed that blue Weezer CD. All of it, every song. That got me thinking about my favorite all time CDs. In the age of being able to easily put together a mix Cd I want to explore the CDs that I love front to back. What are the five CDs that I can sit down and listen to throughout and enjoy every second of. In no particular order:

The previously mentioned blue Weezer CD.
Dave Matthews Band "Before These Crowded Streets"
Phish "A Story of the Ghost"
Andrew Peterson "Behold the Lamb of God"
Ben Folds "Rockin' The Suburbs"