I've been playing the piano since childhood, but never considered it anything more than a hobby, believing that I've never been that great at it. Well all that aside, my challenge this semester has been to memorize and perform a piano solo so I can prove myself at least competent so I can graduate eventually.
Now you see, the biggest difficulty for me has always been memorizing piano songs. Give me multiple songs to sing and I will memorize them no problem, but playing is a different story. It doesn't come quite so naturally.
But since that is the requirement, I have been diligently [..or semi-diligently] practicing. And I've made a strange discovery.
When I perform memorized music I perform it differently then when I am staring at the page. You see, rather than reading what is on the page and striving to reproduce it, the piece flows from me. It's so much more internalized, and therefore easier to perform musically. There's a difference between playing music and making music.
So when I experience this epiphany I suddenly realized why it is important to memorize other important things. Like scripture or great quotes from literature or key concepts in a field of study. The things we memorize become a part of us because we carry them around with us. And they affect how we think and consequently how we act.
Quote of the Day:
Elizabeth Bennet: What a beautiful pianoforte.
Georgiana Darcy: My brother gave it to me. He shouldn't have.
Mr. Darcy: Yes, I should've.
Georgiana Darcy: Oh, very well then.
Mr. Darcy: Easily persuaded, is she not?
Elizabeth Bennet: Your unfortunate brother once had to put up with my playing for a whole evening.
Georgiana Darcy: But he says you play so well.
Elizabeth Bennet: Then he has perjured himself most profoundly.
Mr. Darcy: No I said, "played quite well."
Elizabeth Bennet: Oh, "quite well" is not "very well." I'm satisfied.
-Pride and Prejudice
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Friday, August 14, 2009
It's time to get out of the desert and into the sun...even if it's alone
I've had an epiphany this morning:
Dating is like Solitaire.
Minus the solitary part...
OK, check this. If you are playing Solitaire on the computer, especially if you are using 3 card draw, you will play countless games that get you nowhere. I mean, sometimes you are just dealt a bum deck that only lets you make like 2 plays and then you have to scrap it and start all over.
And then other times, you will play the same game until you are certain that you will definitely win this time, but then at the last second, you realize the one card you need to move forward is buried underneath that 1 stack that you cannot reach.
It's really frustrating at times, and sometimes makes me feel like a complete failure that I cannot even finish 1 full game of Solitaire. But once I've found that one deal that FINALLY works out, it makes all of those 316 games worth it.
Quote of the Day:
Schmee: Lightning has just struck my brain.
Captain James Hook: Now that must hurt.
-Hook, starring Robin Williams
Dating is like Solitaire.
Minus the solitary part...
OK, check this. If you are playing Solitaire on the computer, especially if you are using 3 card draw, you will play countless games that get you nowhere. I mean, sometimes you are just dealt a bum deck that only lets you make like 2 plays and then you have to scrap it and start all over.
And then other times, you will play the same game until you are certain that you will definitely win this time, but then at the last second, you realize the one card you need to move forward is buried underneath that 1 stack that you cannot reach.
It's really frustrating at times, and sometimes makes me feel like a complete failure that I cannot even finish 1 full game of Solitaire. But once I've found that one deal that FINALLY works out, it makes all of those 316 games worth it.
Quote of the Day:
Schmee: Lightning has just struck my brain.
Captain James Hook: Now that must hurt.
-Hook, starring Robin Williams
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Sages
I've recently made a new observation: Elderly people can get away with saying things that make younger individuals into creepers.
For example, today I was shopping for vegetables for the salads I made for dinner tonight. When I got into the check-out line the elderly gentleman ahead of me (who by the way was accompanied by two older women) asked if I wanted any meat today. When I replied "No thanks," he looked at the contents of my cart and asked if I was planning on having a big salad tonight for dinner. When I affirmed his query he said, "Mm. Delicious." I smiled politely as I moved to an adjacent line and proceeded to check-out. But as I exited the store I passed by him again on the way to my car. As I crossed the parking lot, the man told me to "Be safe now as you drive home." I said thanks again and left.
This encounter was a bit strange, but I mostly just took it as a sweet encounter with an extroverted elderly gentleman. I didn't feel any sort of weird intensity so much as friendliness from a stranger. I suspect that his concern for my safety was related to the weather, as it had been raining on and off and was incredibly overcast all afternoon. But I was thinking later on that day that if this man had been, say, mid-forties, as opposed to about sixty I am guessing....
If he were in his mid-forties and had a mustache and yellowed teeth and looked intently into my eyes as he expressed his delight in salads, I have a feeling I would have found him more disturbing than cute.
Anybody feel me?
And this has certainly not been the only encounter of this sort that I've experienced. Last summer I visited the local Walk-In clinic in town because I suffered sinus issues. When I sat down next to an elderly woman in the waiting room to fill out necessary paperwork, she turned to me and said, "You're too pretty to be sick."
At the time the statement just made me smile and was stored away mentally as one of the best compliments I'd received to date. But what if this woman had not been elderly? What if she were in, say, her early thirties? I would have suspected her of making some sort of pass at me at the Walk-In clinic. Classy. Opportune moment, let me tell you.
Or, how about this situation? I moved to a new city last August and was consequently searching for a new church. Upon arriving at a particular church one Sunday morning, I was greeted by another elderly woman who gave me a name tag and, upon discovering that I was a first time visitor, began voluntarily offering me information about the church and the pastors and such. Well, she randomly decided to state, "There are a lot of cute boys who go here."
Now if this woman had been in her early 20s, I would have immediately labeled her as a slut. Of course, I would have concealed this thought, since I was in church, but really now. If she had been younger, married or in some sort of relationship or not, I would have come to very different conclusions about her. But because she was elderly, I decided to regard her as one of my grandparents. They say cutely awkward things because they are not so self-conscious as people my age.
I personally think it's pretty refreshing to receive compliments and advice from the elderly.
Quotes of the Day:
Chip: You respect me now, I'm your Grandfather!
Texas Rancher: Chip, I'ma come at you like a spider monkey!!
Texas Ranger: I tell you what, Granny, this blows.
Walker: How much more of this?
Granny: I dunno. How many more times you gonna toss me a radio in the bathtub?
-Talladega Nights
For example, today I was shopping for vegetables for the salads I made for dinner tonight. When I got into the check-out line the elderly gentleman ahead of me (who by the way was accompanied by two older women) asked if I wanted any meat today. When I replied "No thanks," he looked at the contents of my cart and asked if I was planning on having a big salad tonight for dinner. When I affirmed his query he said, "Mm. Delicious." I smiled politely as I moved to an adjacent line and proceeded to check-out. But as I exited the store I passed by him again on the way to my car. As I crossed the parking lot, the man told me to "Be safe now as you drive home." I said thanks again and left.
This encounter was a bit strange, but I mostly just took it as a sweet encounter with an extroverted elderly gentleman. I didn't feel any sort of weird intensity so much as friendliness from a stranger. I suspect that his concern for my safety was related to the weather, as it had been raining on and off and was incredibly overcast all afternoon. But I was thinking later on that day that if this man had been, say, mid-forties, as opposed to about sixty I am guessing....
If he were in his mid-forties and had a mustache and yellowed teeth and looked intently into my eyes as he expressed his delight in salads, I have a feeling I would have found him more disturbing than cute.
Anybody feel me?
And this has certainly not been the only encounter of this sort that I've experienced. Last summer I visited the local Walk-In clinic in town because I suffered sinus issues. When I sat down next to an elderly woman in the waiting room to fill out necessary paperwork, she turned to me and said, "You're too pretty to be sick."
At the time the statement just made me smile and was stored away mentally as one of the best compliments I'd received to date. But what if this woman had not been elderly? What if she were in, say, her early thirties? I would have suspected her of making some sort of pass at me at the Walk-In clinic. Classy. Opportune moment, let me tell you.
Or, how about this situation? I moved to a new city last August and was consequently searching for a new church. Upon arriving at a particular church one Sunday morning, I was greeted by another elderly woman who gave me a name tag and, upon discovering that I was a first time visitor, began voluntarily offering me information about the church and the pastors and such. Well, she randomly decided to state, "There are a lot of cute boys who go here."
Now if this woman had been in her early 20s, I would have immediately labeled her as a slut. Of course, I would have concealed this thought, since I was in church, but really now. If she had been younger, married or in some sort of relationship or not, I would have come to very different conclusions about her. But because she was elderly, I decided to regard her as one of my grandparents. They say cutely awkward things because they are not so self-conscious as people my age.
I personally think it's pretty refreshing to receive compliments and advice from the elderly.
Quotes of the Day:
Chip: You respect me now, I'm your Grandfather!
Texas Rancher: Chip, I'ma come at you like a spider monkey!!
Texas Ranger: I tell you what, Granny, this blows.
Walker: How much more of this?
Granny: I dunno. How many more times you gonna toss me a radio in the bathtub?
-Talladega Nights
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Olde School
OK so I know there is nothing in the world more emo than this, but I really love this song, so I'm posting the lyrics.
The Middle -- Jimmy Eat World
Hey,
Don't write yourself off yet.
It's only in your head you feel left out,
Or looked down on.
Just try your best,
Try everything you can.
And don't you worry what they tell themselves
When you're away.
[Chorus]
It just takes some time,
Little girl, you're in the middle of the ride.
Everything, everything will be just fine,
Everything, everything will be alright. (alright)
Hey,
You know they're all the same.
You know you're doing better on your own, (on your own)
So don't buy in.
Live right now.
Yeah, just be yourself.
It doesn't matter if it's good enough (good enough)
For someone else.
[Chorus x2]
Hey, don't write yourself off yet.
It's only in your head you feel left out, (feel left out)
Or looked down on.
Just do your best, (just do your best)
Do everything you can. (do everything you can)
And don't you worry what their bitter hearts (bitter hearts)
Are gonna say.
Quote of the Day:
"WHOOOOOOO RRRRR UUU??!"
-Caterpillar, Disney's Alice in Wonderland
The Middle -- Jimmy Eat World
Hey,
Don't write yourself off yet.
It's only in your head you feel left out,
Or looked down on.
Just try your best,
Try everything you can.
And don't you worry what they tell themselves
When you're away.
[Chorus]
It just takes some time,
Little girl, you're in the middle of the ride.
Everything, everything will be just fine,
Everything, everything will be alright. (alright)
Hey,
You know they're all the same.
You know you're doing better on your own, (on your own)
So don't buy in.
Live right now.
Yeah, just be yourself.
It doesn't matter if it's good enough (good enough)
For someone else.
[Chorus x2]
Hey, don't write yourself off yet.
It's only in your head you feel left out, (feel left out)
Or looked down on.
Just do your best, (just do your best)
Do everything you can. (do everything you can)
And don't you worry what their bitter hearts (bitter hearts)
Are gonna say.
Quote of the Day:
"WHOOOOOOO RRRRR UUU??!"
-Caterpillar, Disney's Alice in Wonderland
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
I am the Lorax. I speak for the trees.
I got an A+ on the following essay in Humanities II. It was such a fierce paper, I decided to share it. The best part is, I didn't even start writing it until 1:30 am the night [well..morning] before it was due. I hope it is thought-provoking.
A brief examination of the Christian Worldview vs. a Mechanistic
Worldview and the Ethical Responsibilities of Man’s Role in Nature
In his autobiographical Discourse on Method, Descartes clearly exhibits a mechanistic worldview, in which nature operates as a machine and exists as a resource for mankind (1637). To support this claim, Descartes and other 17th century thinkers delineate a biblical passage where God assigns men to manage the Earth. Genesis 1: 26 says, “Then God said, “Let us make man in our image, in our likeness, and let them rule over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air, over all the livestock, over all the earth, and over all the creatures that move along the ground”” (1984). Due to the phrase “rule over,” in this selection, Descartes and other scientists and philosophical thinkers of his time believed and acted on the belief that men could do whatever they pleased with the world (Merchant: 1992, 40). The earth was created by God and given for man to reign over supremely. Thus, a man can employ this earth to accomplish whatever means he deems fit, no matter how unwise the implications. However, this was not God’s original intent when commanding the man to “rule;” this call indicates direction and leadership manifested through man’s demonstration of good stewardship toward the world.
Paul authors a letter to the Romans in which he implies that nature, as the creation of God, proves the very existence of its Maker. Romans 1:20 states, “For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities - his eternal power and divine nature - have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse” (1984). This scripture indicates that everything in creation, including the aforementioned “fish of the sea,” “birds of the air,” and “livestock,” in addition to forests, oceans, mountains, and all the rest of the earthly landscape, points people back to God (1984, Genesis 1: 26). It is therefore logical to conclude that this natural landscaping and its ecosystems are inherently worth maintaining, to keep the presence and influence of God among humankind.
Unfortunately, as a result of the Scientific Revolution, Descartes and his philosophical, mathematical, and scientific colleagues, including Copernicus, Galileo, Bacon, and Newton, impacted Western thinkers, encouraging men to exercise free dominion over the natural world (Seeds: 2009, 1). This free reign has led to an ever-increasing shirking of man’s ethical responsibilities toward anything in the universe that is not human.
An example of present-day abuses of man’s “rule” over non-human nature include genetically modified organisms, or GMOs. The genetic modification of various organisms, namely plants, is accomplished through introducing a gene into a system that would not naturally produce it, such as placing a wheat plant gene into a corn plant’s genetic makeup, although this process generally includes breeding bacterial DNA into plants. Plant technologists have learned to cross breed crops in order to enhance their growth, nutritional value, or increase their resistance to insects and other pests. While putting pesticides in the plants themselves does decrease the use of chemical pesticides on crops, it still has negative effects on the plants and the ecological systems in which they live (Phillips: 2009).
One effectual problem of this genetic modification is the decrease of natural biodiversity in the environment. According to studies compiled by Tilman, “greater diversity leads to greater productivity in plant communities, greater nutrient retention in ecosystems and greater ecosystem stability” (2000, 208). Studies indicate that halving the amount of a species in an area causes a ten to twenty percent loss of productivity of those species (Tilman: 2000, 208). If men continue to alter the genetic makeup of plants for farming and agricultural purposes, they will, over time, harm themselves. As more and more of these plant species are created and fewer and fewer natural species are allowed the freedom to regenerate, the plants will become less and less productive and less nutritious. A decrease in productivity leads to a decrease in profit, along with a decrease in food resources for the world. It is therefore in man’s best interests to leave these natural environments alone to thrive naturally, not be manipulated mechanistically.
In his Discourse on Method, Descartes explains that he left the world of academic studies to travel the world and experience different countries, cultures, and environments. As a result, he writes that he “learned not to believe anything too firmly of which [he] had been persuaded only by example and custom” (1637, 6). By witnessing others’ cultures and traditions, he learned to appreciate them for their diverse nature and encourages readers to similarly avoid ethnocentrism. I propose that men living in this present age not only embrace the diversity of other men’s cultures, but also the diversity of other species on our planet. Variety creates more possibility for increased growth, and the genetic alteration of plants for marketing purposes inhibits nature’s creativity. Because men are in fact a part of the natural world, they should invest in their surroundings by preserving those characteristics that will allow organisms to exist for the longest possible period of time and therefore offer the most benefit to all other organisms by performing their intended function on earth.
Returning to Paul, he warns in his letter to the Romans that “the wrath of God is being revealed from heaven against all the godlessness and wickedness of men who suppress the truth by their wickedness” (1984, Romans 1:18). If men continue to ignore the truth of their responsibility for nature, which has been assigned them by God, the world will continue to degenerate and they will cause their own demise and undoing. The right to rule nature does in fact place men over all other species and organisms, but it does not give indefinite freedom to abuse these other living things. God has placed man on Earth to work for it and maintain the environment He has created. Tampering with the genetic makeup of vegetation created specifically by God is a wicked attempt at undermining His authority, communicating that while He may have had a certain design in mind, man’s modifications will enhance the world and make these plants even better than God intended.
Paul also writes to the Colossians, “whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men” (1984: Colossians 3:23). Thus, men should not look to other men to determine the validity of their work, but judge themselves by the Lord’s standards. While men are in charge of this world, God created it and is above the entire universe. It is therefore imperative that men be cautious of how they choose to view and utilize the earth’s resources. These resources are a gift from God that should be dedicated back to Him as men strive to please God, not other men, through their work.
Quote of the Day:
"I'm just doing my part to save the rain forest."
-Mary Catherine Gallagher, Superstar
Works Cited
Descartes, Rene. Discourse on Method. Indianapolis: Hackett Publishing Company, 1637.
“Dominion over Nature.” Worldviews, Religion, and the Environment. Richard Foltz, ed. Belmont, CA: Wadsworth / Thomson Learning, 2003.
Phillips, Theresa. “What are GMOs?” About.com. 2009.
Seeds, Cybele. “Implications of the Mechanistic Worldview.” Spring 2009: 1-4.
The Holy Bible: New International Version. Grand Rapids, Michigan: Zondervan, 1984.
Tilman, David. “Causes, consequences and ethics of biodiversity.” Nature. Vol. 405. (2000) : 208-211.
A brief examination of the Christian Worldview vs. a Mechanistic
Worldview and the Ethical Responsibilities of Man’s Role in Nature
In his autobiographical Discourse on Method, Descartes clearly exhibits a mechanistic worldview, in which nature operates as a machine and exists as a resource for mankind (1637). To support this claim, Descartes and other 17th century thinkers delineate a biblical passage where God assigns men to manage the Earth. Genesis 1: 26 says, “Then God said, “Let us make man in our image, in our likeness, and let them rule over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air, over all the livestock, over all the earth, and over all the creatures that move along the ground”” (1984). Due to the phrase “rule over,” in this selection, Descartes and other scientists and philosophical thinkers of his time believed and acted on the belief that men could do whatever they pleased with the world (Merchant: 1992, 40). The earth was created by God and given for man to reign over supremely. Thus, a man can employ this earth to accomplish whatever means he deems fit, no matter how unwise the implications. However, this was not God’s original intent when commanding the man to “rule;” this call indicates direction and leadership manifested through man’s demonstration of good stewardship toward the world.
Paul authors a letter to the Romans in which he implies that nature, as the creation of God, proves the very existence of its Maker. Romans 1:20 states, “For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities - his eternal power and divine nature - have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse” (1984). This scripture indicates that everything in creation, including the aforementioned “fish of the sea,” “birds of the air,” and “livestock,” in addition to forests, oceans, mountains, and all the rest of the earthly landscape, points people back to God (1984, Genesis 1: 26). It is therefore logical to conclude that this natural landscaping and its ecosystems are inherently worth maintaining, to keep the presence and influence of God among humankind.
Unfortunately, as a result of the Scientific Revolution, Descartes and his philosophical, mathematical, and scientific colleagues, including Copernicus, Galileo, Bacon, and Newton, impacted Western thinkers, encouraging men to exercise free dominion over the natural world (Seeds: 2009, 1). This free reign has led to an ever-increasing shirking of man’s ethical responsibilities toward anything in the universe that is not human.
An example of present-day abuses of man’s “rule” over non-human nature include genetically modified organisms, or GMOs. The genetic modification of various organisms, namely plants, is accomplished through introducing a gene into a system that would not naturally produce it, such as placing a wheat plant gene into a corn plant’s genetic makeup, although this process generally includes breeding bacterial DNA into plants. Plant technologists have learned to cross breed crops in order to enhance their growth, nutritional value, or increase their resistance to insects and other pests. While putting pesticides in the plants themselves does decrease the use of chemical pesticides on crops, it still has negative effects on the plants and the ecological systems in which they live (Phillips: 2009).
One effectual problem of this genetic modification is the decrease of natural biodiversity in the environment. According to studies compiled by Tilman, “greater diversity leads to greater productivity in plant communities, greater nutrient retention in ecosystems and greater ecosystem stability” (2000, 208). Studies indicate that halving the amount of a species in an area causes a ten to twenty percent loss of productivity of those species (Tilman: 2000, 208). If men continue to alter the genetic makeup of plants for farming and agricultural purposes, they will, over time, harm themselves. As more and more of these plant species are created and fewer and fewer natural species are allowed the freedom to regenerate, the plants will become less and less productive and less nutritious. A decrease in productivity leads to a decrease in profit, along with a decrease in food resources for the world. It is therefore in man’s best interests to leave these natural environments alone to thrive naturally, not be manipulated mechanistically.
In his Discourse on Method, Descartes explains that he left the world of academic studies to travel the world and experience different countries, cultures, and environments. As a result, he writes that he “learned not to believe anything too firmly of which [he] had been persuaded only by example and custom” (1637, 6). By witnessing others’ cultures and traditions, he learned to appreciate them for their diverse nature and encourages readers to similarly avoid ethnocentrism. I propose that men living in this present age not only embrace the diversity of other men’s cultures, but also the diversity of other species on our planet. Variety creates more possibility for increased growth, and the genetic alteration of plants for marketing purposes inhibits nature’s creativity. Because men are in fact a part of the natural world, they should invest in their surroundings by preserving those characteristics that will allow organisms to exist for the longest possible period of time and therefore offer the most benefit to all other organisms by performing their intended function on earth.
Returning to Paul, he warns in his letter to the Romans that “the wrath of God is being revealed from heaven against all the godlessness and wickedness of men who suppress the truth by their wickedness” (1984, Romans 1:18). If men continue to ignore the truth of their responsibility for nature, which has been assigned them by God, the world will continue to degenerate and they will cause their own demise and undoing. The right to rule nature does in fact place men over all other species and organisms, but it does not give indefinite freedom to abuse these other living things. God has placed man on Earth to work for it and maintain the environment He has created. Tampering with the genetic makeup of vegetation created specifically by God is a wicked attempt at undermining His authority, communicating that while He may have had a certain design in mind, man’s modifications will enhance the world and make these plants even better than God intended.
Paul also writes to the Colossians, “whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men” (1984: Colossians 3:23). Thus, men should not look to other men to determine the validity of their work, but judge themselves by the Lord’s standards. While men are in charge of this world, God created it and is above the entire universe. It is therefore imperative that men be cautious of how they choose to view and utilize the earth’s resources. These resources are a gift from God that should be dedicated back to Him as men strive to please God, not other men, through their work.
Quote of the Day:
"I'm just doing my part to save the rain forest."
-Mary Catherine Gallagher, Superstar
Works Cited
Descartes, Rene. Discourse on Method. Indianapolis: Hackett Publishing Company, 1637.
“Dominion over Nature.” Worldviews, Religion, and the Environment. Richard Foltz, ed. Belmont, CA: Wadsworth / Thomson Learning, 2003.
Phillips, Theresa. “What are GMOs?” About.com. 2009.
Seeds, Cybele. “Implications of the Mechanistic Worldview.” Spring 2009: 1-4.
The Holy Bible: New International Version. Grand Rapids, Michigan: Zondervan, 1984.
Tilman, David. “Causes, consequences and ethics of biodiversity.” Nature. Vol. 405. (2000) : 208-211.
Monday, April 27, 2009
Que legasti il mio pensier
So I'm sitting in the library and I SHOULD be reading Descartes' Discourse on Method because I have to write a 4 page paper on it for tomorrow, but reading blogs is just so much more interesting. I glanced over a few of my older entries to see where I have been and where I am headed and noticed that my first couple blogs were extremely random and kind of jumped around. But as I've developed as a blogger, they have become much more systematic and focused. I just wanted to set my followers minds at ease by letting you all know that even though my writings have become much more clear, I still have many many pretzels in my head that have been driving me crazy as I attempt to stop the circular, salty swirling thoughts in my prefrontal cortex. [Look at that! I still remember something from Physiological Psychology last semester!]
While these thoughts are incredibly frustrating and starting to get a bit soggy and stale..they HAVE contributed to my ability to interpret one of my songs from my repertoire for this semester. So I guess that's a plus. Here's a bit of culture for you:
Caro laccio dolce nodo
Que legasti il mio pensier
Rough Translation:
Dear string, sweet knot
That binds my thoughts
^^ It's a love song by F. Gasparini that talks about someone being imprisoned, but content in their thoughts of their love. I have yet to decide if these people are actually a couple yet, or if it is an unexpressed longing.
Quote of the Day:
"Opportunity is not a lengthy visitor."
-Cinderella in Into the Woods (by Stephen Sondheim!!)
While these thoughts are incredibly frustrating and starting to get a bit soggy and stale..they HAVE contributed to my ability to interpret one of my songs from my repertoire for this semester. So I guess that's a plus. Here's a bit of culture for you:
Caro laccio dolce nodo
Que legasti il mio pensier
Rough Translation:
Dear string, sweet knot
That binds my thoughts
^^ It's a love song by F. Gasparini that talks about someone being imprisoned, but content in their thoughts of their love. I have yet to decide if these people are actually a couple yet, or if it is an unexpressed longing.
Quote of the Day:
"Opportunity is not a lengthy visitor."
-Cinderella in Into the Woods (by Stephen Sondheim!!)
Friday, April 24, 2009
Waiter Waiter Percolator
Discretion Advised: This entry contains information not intended for those that are weak of stomach.
Last Friday, my voice teacher passed out a packet called "Vocal Health." It basically urges singers to abstain from specific behaviors and foods to maintain their instrument, since a Vocalist's instrument is in fact their person. This is all well & good..I mean, health is a good thing to be concerned about so OK, I'm down.
But the second part of this packet includes information about the horrors of Gastro-Esophageal Reflux Disease (or GERD). GERD is caused by insufficient tensing of the quasi-muscle that separates the stomach from the esophagus, or the esophagus is overpowered by excess pressure within the stomach. This causes leaking of stomach acids into the esophagus, which is NOT good.
So, what foods should I avoid to prevent this disease from occurring? Well, glad you asked. It is good to avoid:
-spicy foods [OK, no big. I hate spicy foods.]
-Alcohol [No problem, I'm underage.]
-Coffee [Um...what? Live w/o coffee? Really Informational Packet, let's be reasonable..]
-Tea [OK. Wait a sec. If I don't have coffee, I substitute w/ tea.]
-Chocolate [Yeah...not letting all this Easter candy go to waste.]
-Hot Foods [Soup. I will NOT stop eating soup. Sorry.]
So in response I am immaturely writing a stubborn blog, sipping on my Lemon Chamomile Tea. And I will NOT regret it!
Song of the Day:
I love coffee
I love tea
I love the java jive and it loves me!
Coffee and tea and the java and me
A cup a cup a cup a cup a cup [Boy!]
-The Java Jive (I don't remember who it's by...)
Quote of the Day:
"Coffee is the lifeblood that fuels the dreams of champions."
-Mike Ditka, Kicking and Screaming
Last Friday, my voice teacher passed out a packet called "Vocal Health." It basically urges singers to abstain from specific behaviors and foods to maintain their instrument, since a Vocalist's instrument is in fact their person. This is all well & good..I mean, health is a good thing to be concerned about so OK, I'm down.
But the second part of this packet includes information about the horrors of Gastro-Esophageal Reflux Disease (or GERD). GERD is caused by insufficient tensing of the quasi-muscle that separates the stomach from the esophagus, or the esophagus is overpowered by excess pressure within the stomach. This causes leaking of stomach acids into the esophagus, which is NOT good.
So, what foods should I avoid to prevent this disease from occurring? Well, glad you asked. It is good to avoid:
-spicy foods [OK, no big. I hate spicy foods.]
-Alcohol [No problem, I'm underage.]
-Coffee [Um...what? Live w/o coffee? Really Informational Packet, let's be reasonable..]
-Tea [OK. Wait a sec. If I don't have coffee, I substitute w/ tea.]
-Chocolate [Yeah...not letting all this Easter candy go to waste.]
-Hot Foods [Soup. I will NOT stop eating soup. Sorry.]
So in response I am immaturely writing a stubborn blog, sipping on my Lemon Chamomile Tea. And I will NOT regret it!
Song of the Day:
I love coffee
I love tea
I love the java jive and it loves me!
Coffee and tea and the java and me
A cup a cup a cup a cup a cup [Boy!]
-The Java Jive (I don't remember who it's by...)
Quote of the Day:
"Coffee is the lifeblood that fuels the dreams of champions."
-Mike Ditka, Kicking and Screaming
Sunday, March 29, 2009
Anxiety = Angst, Disquietude, Distress, Fretfulness, Mistrust, Nervousness, Unease, Worriment
Quote of the Day:
"We must remain quiet. If we leave nature alone, she recovers gently from the disorder into which she has fallen. It is our anxiety, our impatience, which spoils all; and nearly all men die of their remedies, not of their diseases."
-Beralde in The Imaginary Invalid by Jean-Baptist Poquelin (Better Known As: Moliere)
So I thought I'd shake things up a bit and start with a quote today. Last night I went to see my school's production of The Imaginary Invalid. It was absolutely brilliant. Every single cast member was placed in the perfect role and performed to the best of their abilities. Every character was equally over-the-top, and it was so much fun to watch them all just have the time of their lives.
The basic storyline is that this man is a hypochondriac, so he decides to marry his daughter off to a physician so he can receive free treatments. Obviously, the daughter is incredibly unhappy about this, especially since she has fallen in love with someone else and was waiting for his proposal, not to mention the fact that her father isn't even legitimately sick! Well at one point, the protagonist's brother comes by to talk him into listening to his daughter's appeals and makes the above statement [which, by the way, was on the cover of the program. I didn't memorize it on the spot]. But it really resonates with me, so I wanted to share it with you.
Recently, it has been brought to my attention by my church's pastor that anxiety is a choice.
Just think about it. We cannot control what happens around us, but we can choose how we react to it.
Anxiety is a choice.
Philippians 4:6-7 says this: "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."
Lately, I haven't even been reading my Bible, except for homework for my Bible class, because I've just been allowing this to sink in and I've been applying it to my life. Whenever I begin to worry about anything, I've been trying to tell God about it and just trusting Him with it all because He is in control.
I guess we could call this entry "I'm Finding My Inner-Pocahontas, Part 2."
Alternate Quote of the Day:
"I guess I could be pretty pissed off about what happened to me... but it's hard to stay mad, when there's so much beauty in the world. Sometimes I feel like I'm seeing it all at once, and it's too much, my heart fills up like a balloon that's about to burst... And then I remember to relax, and stop trying to hold on to it, and then it flows through me like rain and I can't feel anything but gratitude for every single moment of my stupid little life."
-Lester Burnham, American Beauty
"We must remain quiet. If we leave nature alone, she recovers gently from the disorder into which she has fallen. It is our anxiety, our impatience, which spoils all; and nearly all men die of their remedies, not of their diseases."
-Beralde in The Imaginary Invalid by Jean-Baptist Poquelin (Better Known As: Moliere)
So I thought I'd shake things up a bit and start with a quote today. Last night I went to see my school's production of The Imaginary Invalid. It was absolutely brilliant. Every single cast member was placed in the perfect role and performed to the best of their abilities. Every character was equally over-the-top, and it was so much fun to watch them all just have the time of their lives.
The basic storyline is that this man is a hypochondriac, so he decides to marry his daughter off to a physician so he can receive free treatments. Obviously, the daughter is incredibly unhappy about this, especially since she has fallen in love with someone else and was waiting for his proposal, not to mention the fact that her father isn't even legitimately sick! Well at one point, the protagonist's brother comes by to talk him into listening to his daughter's appeals and makes the above statement [which, by the way, was on the cover of the program. I didn't memorize it on the spot]. But it really resonates with me, so I wanted to share it with you.
Recently, it has been brought to my attention by my church's pastor that anxiety is a choice.
Just think about it. We cannot control what happens around us, but we can choose how we react to it.
Anxiety is a choice.
Philippians 4:6-7 says this: "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."
Lately, I haven't even been reading my Bible, except for homework for my Bible class, because I've just been allowing this to sink in and I've been applying it to my life. Whenever I begin to worry about anything, I've been trying to tell God about it and just trusting Him with it all because He is in control.
I guess we could call this entry "I'm Finding My Inner-Pocahontas, Part 2."
Alternate Quote of the Day:
"I guess I could be pretty pissed off about what happened to me... but it's hard to stay mad, when there's so much beauty in the world. Sometimes I feel like I'm seeing it all at once, and it's too much, my heart fills up like a balloon that's about to burst... And then I remember to relax, and stop trying to hold on to it, and then it flows through me like rain and I can't feel anything but gratitude for every single moment of my stupid little life."
-Lester Burnham, American Beauty
Sunday, March 22, 2009
Sunflower Oil
I just ate a bag of Panera Bread Potato Chips. According to the bag, they are "honestly delicious." That's such a relief because I'm sick and tired of all these bags of potato chips that are deceptively delicious. I mean, they are delicious at the start, but halfway through, they suddenly become disgusting, and I just want to spit them all out. Not only are they physically dissatisfying, but they also leave me emotionally angry and resentful as I come to realize that they manipulated me into believing certain things about them are true, when in fact, they are false. This anger and bitterness then slowly festers beneath the surface of my skin and tortures my psyche, manifesting itself into my actions, attitudes, and words for the rest of the day.
So thank you, Panera Bread, for your honesty.
Quote of the Day:
Sam: I haven't even lied in like two days.
Andrew: Is that true?
Sam: No.
-Garden State
So thank you, Panera Bread, for your honesty.
Quote of the Day:
Sam: I haven't even lied in like two days.
Andrew: Is that true?
Sam: No.
-Garden State
Sunday, March 1, 2009
I'm finding my Inner-Pocahontes
Many people (well Christians, as least) debate whether we as humans have free will or if everything in our lives is predestined. After listening to many different discussions I believe that the answer lies somewhere in between - that certain things in our lives are predetermined by God, but we do also have the opportunity to choose some things, to a certain extent. I know that's really vague and non-specific, but basically I've decided that I will never fully understand it, so that's the idea I hold onto without too much stress because I don't think we're really called to think about these things ad nauseum and neglect to follow Christ's teachings.
So you may be wondering, what exactly is your point in writing this blog then, Angela? Well, I will tell you. Yesterday I had a new, interesting revelation about this very subject.
*What if the resolution to the free will/predestination debate is that life is like a 2 person kayak?
Just play along with me for a second: What if we are in the front of the kayak, and God is in the back. Thus, He steers the boat and we help move it along. [See the metaphor? Boat = Life, Water = Life's Journey, 2 Person Kayak = Our Relationship With God...you trackin' w/ me?] OK so, God basically has an idea of where He wants to go and we have a front row seat, but we can always communicate with Him and ask Him about the destination or ask Him to change the direction of the kayak. And we have full reign to tell Him when we're enjoying ourselves and when we feel tired and just want to rest a few minutes and enjoy the scenery. We can always turn around and say, Hey God, You are aware that there are 2 huge yachts and a speed boat closing in on us, right?? Are we gonna do something about this? K thanks.
I like this idea. I mean, I love the idea that when the water gets super choppy and difficult to navigate through because I'm already going against the current, God is right behind me the whole time to keep steering the boat and tell me it's going to be OK. We're going to make it through this journey together. But on the other hand, I'm personally not super crazy about the fact that I honestly cannot steer this kayak on my own. Well, at least not from the front. Which means I would literally have to take God out in order to take the back seat to steer this thing on my own. But that takes too much effort, so I guess I'll learn to deal with someone else steering.
Just something to think about.
Quote(s) of the Day:
"Does this thing come with a motor?"
-Meghan Frey
"You're right. You're absolutely right. You're just floating along on the HMS Right and we're all floating around in a sea of wrong."
-Dane Cook
So you may be wondering, what exactly is your point in writing this blog then, Angela? Well, I will tell you. Yesterday I had a new, interesting revelation about this very subject.
*What if the resolution to the free will/predestination debate is that life is like a 2 person kayak?
Just play along with me for a second: What if we are in the front of the kayak, and God is in the back. Thus, He steers the boat and we help move it along. [See the metaphor? Boat = Life, Water = Life's Journey, 2 Person Kayak = Our Relationship With God...you trackin' w/ me?] OK so, God basically has an idea of where He wants to go and we have a front row seat, but we can always communicate with Him and ask Him about the destination or ask Him to change the direction of the kayak. And we have full reign to tell Him when we're enjoying ourselves and when we feel tired and just want to rest a few minutes and enjoy the scenery. We can always turn around and say, Hey God, You are aware that there are 2 huge yachts and a speed boat closing in on us, right?? Are we gonna do something about this? K thanks.
I like this idea. I mean, I love the idea that when the water gets super choppy and difficult to navigate through because I'm already going against the current, God is right behind me the whole time to keep steering the boat and tell me it's going to be OK. We're going to make it through this journey together. But on the other hand, I'm personally not super crazy about the fact that I honestly cannot steer this kayak on my own. Well, at least not from the front. Which means I would literally have to take God out in order to take the back seat to steer this thing on my own. But that takes too much effort, so I guess I'll learn to deal with someone else steering.
Just something to think about.
Quote(s) of the Day:
"Does this thing come with a motor?"
-Meghan Frey
"You're right. You're absolutely right. You're just floating along on the HMS Right and we're all floating around in a sea of wrong."
-Dane Cook
Sunday, February 22, 2009
I think I'll move to Australia
We all know this o-so-famous quote from one of the greatest children's books of all time: Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day. [I would underline that, but apparently I can only make it bold or italicize. What is up w/ this blogging site?! Come on, people. I'm tying to keep good grammar alive here!]
Basically, Alexander has an awful day and repeatedly expresses a wish to move to Australia to escape from all the things that suck in his life.
I can't say I blame him. I mean, if I fell asleep with gum in my mouth and woke up with gum in my hair, I'd have a hard time starting the day too.
Well, that being said, apparently Australia is a good place to move. According to a survey study by HSBC Bank International, the friendliest countries to move to (if you're an American) are Canada, Germany, and Australia. The criteria to determine welcoming atmospheres included: the relative ease with which expats befriended locals, the ability to join and get involved in community groups, and the ability to learn the local language. Out of these 3 countries, Australia was ranked the Most Friendly [sounds like a High School year book haha], but scored lower in community groups. However, this could be attributed to the fact that most expats to Australia are young adults, and may not need to join community groups to meet others as much as older adults or younger children/teenagers.
So Alexander, you've picked a good friendly place to relocate. Just thought I'd inform you.
I personally find this information very interesting, since my interest in Australia keeps growing. I rally want to go there and visit the church with Hillsong/Hillsong United!! It'd also be really sweet to visit New Zealand. But we'll see where my life ends up going.
Anyway, I just thought that article was thought-provoking, so I wanted to share my thoughts on the matter. I hope you have a great day, but if not, you should consider moving to Australia!!
References:
http://travel.yahoo.com/p-interests-25363634
Quote of the Day:
"The world is like a book, and the person who stays at home reads but one page."
-St. Augustine
Basically, Alexander has an awful day and repeatedly expresses a wish to move to Australia to escape from all the things that suck in his life.
I can't say I blame him. I mean, if I fell asleep with gum in my mouth and woke up with gum in my hair, I'd have a hard time starting the day too.
Well, that being said, apparently Australia is a good place to move. According to a survey study by HSBC Bank International, the friendliest countries to move to (if you're an American) are Canada, Germany, and Australia. The criteria to determine welcoming atmospheres included: the relative ease with which expats befriended locals, the ability to join and get involved in community groups, and the ability to learn the local language. Out of these 3 countries, Australia was ranked the Most Friendly [sounds like a High School year book haha], but scored lower in community groups. However, this could be attributed to the fact that most expats to Australia are young adults, and may not need to join community groups to meet others as much as older adults or younger children/teenagers.
So Alexander, you've picked a good friendly place to relocate. Just thought I'd inform you.
I personally find this information very interesting, since my interest in Australia keeps growing. I rally want to go there and visit the church with Hillsong/Hillsong United!! It'd also be really sweet to visit New Zealand. But we'll see where my life ends up going.
Anyway, I just thought that article was thought-provoking, so I wanted to share my thoughts on the matter. I hope you have a great day, but if not, you should consider moving to Australia!!
References:
http://travel.yahoo.com/p-interests-25363634
Quote of the Day:
"The world is like a book, and the person who stays at home reads but one page."
-St. Augustine
Thursday, February 19, 2009
I-N-D-E-P-E-N-D-E-N-T do you know what that means?
I found this article on Yahoo News today about the woman who holds the record for most marriages. She has been wed 23 times. Wow.
http://www.nbcchicago.com/news/weird/Indiana-Woman-Said-I-Do-23-Times.html?yhp=1
That is a LOT of marriages. I mean, I feel lonely on occasion too, but seriously, it will never be so bad that I get married that many times.
But on the flip side, I admire her ability to continue trying. I would have definitely given up by now, if I were her.
Speaking of marriage, I went to this session last night entitled "Sex and Chocolate." My school had this relationship series this week in chapel and the session last night was an opportunity for girls to get together and listen to a panel of women discuss sex, while eating fondue :D. I won't disclose most of what was said, but I have to share the best quote of the evening:
"If both you and your husband are comfortable...pick a role and go play!"
Quote of the Day:
Brenda: You have no clue about the dynamics of marriage.
Juno: We don't even have a dog!
Brenda: Well, that's because you're allergic to their saliva. You know, I've sacrificed a lot for you, kiddo. But as soon as you're out of here, I'm gonna have weimaraners!
Juno: WOAH! Dream big!
Brenda: Oh, go fly a kite!
-Juno
http://www.nbcchicago.com/news/weird/Indiana-Woman-Said-I-Do-23-Times.html?yhp=1
That is a LOT of marriages. I mean, I feel lonely on occasion too, but seriously, it will never be so bad that I get married that many times.
But on the flip side, I admire her ability to continue trying. I would have definitely given up by now, if I were her.
Speaking of marriage, I went to this session last night entitled "Sex and Chocolate." My school had this relationship series this week in chapel and the session last night was an opportunity for girls to get together and listen to a panel of women discuss sex, while eating fondue :D. I won't disclose most of what was said, but I have to share the best quote of the evening:
"If both you and your husband are comfortable...pick a role and go play!"
Quote of the Day:
Brenda: You have no clue about the dynamics of marriage.
Juno: We don't even have a dog!
Brenda: Well, that's because you're allergic to their saliva. You know, I've sacrificed a lot for you, kiddo. But as soon as you're out of here, I'm gonna have weimaraners!
Juno: WOAH! Dream big!
Brenda: Oh, go fly a kite!
-Juno
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Quotable Quotes
Life is basically insanely busy right now, but I felt the pull to write a few quotes.
Literary:
"Brevity is the soul of wit."
-Shakespeare, Hamlet
Deep:
"Do you really believe that God knows what He's doing?"
-Mark Christian, CIY 2007
Lyrics:
"I give you my apathy
I give you my everything
I want your symphony
Singing in all that I am."
-Switchfoot, "Only Hope"
Film:
Lillian: I keep trying to remind myself that when God closes a door He opens a window.
Mary: Yeah, so we have something we can jump out of.
-Saved!
Literary:
"Brevity is the soul of wit."
-Shakespeare, Hamlet
Deep:
"Do you really believe that God knows what He's doing?"
-Mark Christian, CIY 2007
Lyrics:
"I give you my apathy
I give you my everything
I want your symphony
Singing in all that I am."
-Switchfoot, "Only Hope"
Film:
Lillian: I keep trying to remind myself that when God closes a door He opens a window.
Mary: Yeah, so we have something we can jump out of.
-Saved!
Monday, January 12, 2009
Feelings, Nothing More Than Feelings
Most people who know me well, know that I am not necessarily the most emotional person. And even when I do have feelings, they often times go unexpressed. When I wake up in the morning and trek to my classes, I think to myself, "What all do I have to do today?" and then I mentally prepare myself. I do NOT ask myself, "How am I feeling today?" I tell you this because there's been a slight change in this. Well, sometimes anyway....
Sometime last semester, my adviser asked me, "How do you feel about open book tests?"
"How do I feel about them??"
I inwardly giggled at this thought, but politely discussed with him how they are sometimes more challenging than closed book exams because I don't always prepare as well for them, thinking, "Well, I can always look the answer up."
But later, the silliness of the question hit me and stuck with me.
I SHOULD have said, "Well, they make me feel very apprehensive because of my deep-seated fear of the unknown because I never know what to expect from them." But my wit was apparently not so sharp that morning.
However, due to this encounter, I have begun to, on occasion, consider how I am feeling in any given situation. [Yay turning points!!] So here goes. Since my arrival back at school for spring semester, I feel very out of sorts. One of my roommates transferred out and there are some new students in my classes. I don't know how I feel about some of my friends. Even though I enjoy their company immensely, I sometimes feel like I want space from them. It's not really because I don't like them anymore, or we had a fight. It's just I get tired of seeing the same people all the time. [I swear, it's not you...it's me.] I don't know. Maybe I have a social disorder. haha, nah. It's probably not that serious. It's just, I hung out a LOT last semester and kind of procrastinated my work, and I really want to focus and get stuff done more this semester. See, here are a few of my goals:
-Attend more recitals for Recital Attendance Documentation
-Keep the caffeine consumption to a minimum
-Work on my Workship hours
-Get involved at my church
But I don't want to be too serious and focused, because then I tend to be more introverted and have less fun. UGH.
Quote of the Day:
"I am in a PICKLE!"
-Will Ferrell as Ron Burgundy, Anchorman
^So I totally just remembered that movies are in italics, not quotes. Woops. Punctuation Fail.
Sometime last semester, my adviser asked me, "How do you feel about open book tests?"
"How do I feel about them??"
I inwardly giggled at this thought, but politely discussed with him how they are sometimes more challenging than closed book exams because I don't always prepare as well for them, thinking, "Well, I can always look the answer up."
But later, the silliness of the question hit me and stuck with me.
I SHOULD have said, "Well, they make me feel very apprehensive because of my deep-seated fear of the unknown because I never know what to expect from them." But my wit was apparently not so sharp that morning.
However, due to this encounter, I have begun to, on occasion, consider how I am feeling in any given situation. [Yay turning points!!] So here goes. Since my arrival back at school for spring semester, I feel very out of sorts. One of my roommates transferred out and there are some new students in my classes. I don't know how I feel about some of my friends. Even though I enjoy their company immensely, I sometimes feel like I want space from them. It's not really because I don't like them anymore, or we had a fight. It's just I get tired of seeing the same people all the time. [I swear, it's not you...it's me.] I don't know. Maybe I have a social disorder. haha, nah. It's probably not that serious. It's just, I hung out a LOT last semester and kind of procrastinated my work, and I really want to focus and get stuff done more this semester. See, here are a few of my goals:
-Attend more recitals for Recital Attendance Documentation
-Keep the caffeine consumption to a minimum
-Work on my Workship hours
-Get involved at my church
But I don't want to be too serious and focused, because then I tend to be more introverted and have less fun. UGH.
Quote of the Day:
"I am in a PICKLE!"
-Will Ferrell as Ron Burgundy, Anchorman
^So I totally just remembered that movies are in italics, not quotes. Woops. Punctuation Fail.
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