tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-43445693283441780682024-03-13T10:43:11.351-07:00PIECESOFLIGHTEa Christian guys perspective on life. More questions than answers. The few answers aren't always kosher. Mostly me thinking out loud. Not always politically correct or totally well thought out either. Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01011243269323811393noreply@blogger.comBlogger100125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4344569328344178068.post-75941617899271716242016-02-01T16:43:00.001-08:002016-02-01T16:44:33.063-08:00A case for the little man...(me obsessing over dreams)<br />
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<span style="color: #141823; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;">As
navigate this world, constantly trying to figure out what really works for me
and where I shall strike it rich I have tried a number of things? Selling
phones was the more interesting one but I never had that shadowy thing called
"investment capital" and since I sucked at this whole proposal
writing and pitching for funds I sort of did not make it. I tried my hand at
selling land and cars but that was not any more successful. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #141823; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;">I have sold food stuff as a camp but
again I had to punt that off to a friend. There are several things in there I
have tried I think but in all these endeavours I really was seriously looking
for a buck.....Here I was doing odd jobs while I had a degree. It did feel a
little menial but I did it because I had to. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #141823; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;">each day I walk the streets of Kampala
seeing all these people who are doing small odd jobs selling tomatoes, roast
meat, Rolexes, clothes, maize or airtime and I wonder how much do they really
make and why do they even keep coming back. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #141823; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;">I think of all the things I have read
in books about expanding and growing your business although I wonder how much
can you grow a Rolex business, but that is for another day. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #141823; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;">I think of the things that have stood
in their way, choked their dreams and tripped them up but still they come out
every evening to sell their wares. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #141823; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;">I ask if there is anybody willing to
walk with them, starting with teaching them that they can be more, do more and
then going ahead to show them how. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #141823; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;">I ask if their government doing
anything to help them, to break the back of the corrupt and tax evaders (many
of whom can afford to pay these taxes). Are they stream lining the system for
efficiency and equity? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #141823; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;">I ask also about our conscience, not
towards social justice, though that too is something we are sorely lacking, but
towards simple honesty. The idea of paying a fair wage or reasonable price
seems foreign to us. You would not believe how “expensive” a 150USD charge is
in a budget of 50 times that cost. These little things such as paying fair wage
can do so much and make a difference. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #141823; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;">Then I think of my struggle and their
struggle. I might be a few steps above the ladder from the way the world looks
at it but I always aware that our existences are both precarious. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #141823; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;">Each day, despite all our hurdles we
get up and go and work...that alone I applaud...and each day we try to reach
our dreams...<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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I laud work….however small and I pray
we all reach our dreams one odd job at a time. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01011243269323811393noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4344569328344178068.post-57492124583794188272015-11-02T16:49:00.000-08:002015-11-02T16:49:46.520-08:00On Turning 31<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
I guess it’s that time of the
year where I take stock of the year that has passed and perhaps say one or two
inspirational things…perhaps.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Two people stand out as I set my
other foot into the door of the 30plus club. The first is Cynthia Ayeza.
Anybody who knows her will perhaps not be surprised. She was once a total
stranger I met through another friend. She runs one of the best on line sites
with<a href="http://readerscafeafrica.com/" target="_blank"> African stories by African writers</a> but more than that is the sheer light
she seems to exude. She is happy by choice and I think that is what stands out
the most for me. We have shared some deeply personal stories off the bat and that
too has been a salve to this pained soul. Cynthia I can’t thank you enough but
know that while the cynic in me may sometimes roll his eyes at your optimism
for life, another part of me is grateful and I hope and hope and pray that
nothing ever changes that about you. Thank you.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
The other person, who I believe
featured in my <a href="http://piecesoflighte.blogspot.ug/2014/11/30-rock-partial-musings-on-turning-30.html" target="_blank">previous thank you piece</a> is Edith. She will not read this
because she abandoned social media hehe. But I guess when you are in the dark
sometimes having someone there with you makes all the difference. We have stood
back to back against our own demons and have helped each other through the dark
time. I suck at all the mushy stuff but never doubt that I love you…I would
behead superman for you. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Martin my partner in crime and
righteousness. God never allows us to walk alone and even though he is always
with us he knows the importance of a human companion. This year you have given
me more laughs than I care to count, shared debates with me and have kept up
with all my irritating habits. We might have started at the bottom but we are
getting there…and remember the stuff you promised for my birthday…I shall be
collecting. <o:p></o:p></div>
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A lot of the people I have met
this year have just been the best and most simply for being whom there are and
simply being a present friend. I know I have morphed into a silent brooding old
man lately but you are a big part of my life. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
On mental health<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
The other big part of this year
has been my continued struggle with depression. Yes I know, I don’t seem like
that usual candidate. But I guess everything and everyone has a breaking point.
But while I could spin a sop story of how hard it is to live through dark days
at noon and feelings so crushing you can’t get out of bed I would like to speak
to anyone who has been through this whether it be a “mild case” or a much
deeper struggle, you are not alone nor are you a lost cause. We (those
struggling with depression) are much stronger than we give ourselves credit
for. We might be rarely understood but I guarantee you the world needs our
gifts, talents and lives. Hang in there, keep taking those meds and let’s live.
PS feel free to message me and let’s have a chat. You are not alone. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
To all the other, depression is
not a demon, a feeling or a fad. We “don’t do it” because it cool or because we
want attention. The causes and the symptoms are as varied as those that suffer
from it. What we need most is to be treated like normal people….irony I know…but
being treated like with kid gloves, whispers and God knows what else does not
help the recovery situation. It’s a very real struggle, more for some, less for
others but a struggle none the less. You love, care and support goes a long
way. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
On Faith<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
This has been a big part of my
life but I am done with church. Now before you get all hot in the collar keep
reading. Recently someone asked me why I have become “so bad” and I jokingly
said four years working in a church. There is still so much pain and bitterness
attached to that period in my life and I fear I shall be dealing with the
consequences for some time to come but deal with it I will. <o:p></o:p></div>
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I still believe faith is central
to life…but not the concept of church as it’s practiced today. I have joked
that church needs to be banned or burned, whichever comes church, in favour of
home churches or at least smaller community based churches. I find that smaller
units of faiths, sharing everyday life are a much riper place for growth and
revival. Think of only going to cell (for those churches that do cell) or those
room fellowships for the next year instead of the mega church services? I think
it would awesome.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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So if you do not see me for the
more traditional church events don’t get worried, just pray and if you should
gather the courage approach me and let’s have a conversation. If this for some
reasons means we cannot be friends, it will be sad but I guess we each must
walk our paths. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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On Change</div>
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Everything changes and not always for the best. But such is life. I am learning to give the boat a little rope so that it rocks a little as the storms of life rock it in the habor and some times the the midst of the storms, i take down my sails and just go with the flow till clear skies hit and i can finally steer my life in what i believe to be the right direction. I am not who i should be nor who i used to be...but i can assure you i am all kinds of me. </div>
<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01011243269323811393noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4344569328344178068.post-27631462763297601162015-08-19T11:30:00.000-07:002015-08-19T11:30:01.982-07:00The Girl who changed my mind<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Once i met a girl...like any
normal boy and girl we did what boys and girls do...we got to talking. She told
me she wanted to be a teacher. I was amazed, humbled and inspired. She was the
first Ugandan i met who, from S6 Vac, had the ambition of being a teacher. Now
we all know how this is a profession scorned,or at least it was. But here she
was loudly and openly telling us she wanted to be a teacher. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Fast forward several years and i
meet another young lady...and like all young men and women do...we got to
talking. She told me she wanted to build a school back in her home district. At
the time she was studying from Bulaya (Ugandan vernacular term used to refer to countries overseas) , i forget which course, but she was going
to channel all her monies and energies towards building a school. Again i was
amazed, humbled and inspired. These two women sowed the seeds that bred and
season of introspection. they taught me that, yes there is so much wrong with
our country but only we can change it, not buy asking the government but buy
actually doing something about it ourselves. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Fast forward several more years.
I had just left my previous job and had started my photography business. Those
first months meant i had a lot of time to myself. I pondered on my plight and
that of my country. I wondered how i could make a change. There were so many
more before me. Politically minded and social entrepreneurs...they were doing
something but what could i do. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
One of those many days, with too
little in my pocket to pay for my fare home i walked down Kampala road. My head
was literally bowed, glued to the pavement. Tired of all the self-pity i
decided to lift my head up high...literally. I looked up, a little too high i
guess, cause i found myself staring at all the shop signs that had hang above
my head all these years but i never noticed. I love graphic design and so the
signs intrigued me a little. "How much you miss when you always look
down" i wondered. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
I observed that many do the exact
same thing; we look to our feet as we scurry around this city. I wondered how
much we missed because we do not look up. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
The next few weeks were spent
looking up all over the city and noticing the shapes, the textures, the play of
light and so much more. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
i started taking pictures with my
phone and later my camera....from this my Instagram Blog was born...a
collection of images that show the other side of this Lovely city that has been
my home all this time. It was my way of seeing my city in a different light. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
But something bigger was born in
me those few months. I realized that I can change my city if I change the way
my peers looked at it. If I could just get them to appreciate this country and
city perhaps they would be more willing to fight for it and defend it from
pariahs of bad governance and selfish greed.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
More than that perhaps I would
inspire us to do something about our city, to plug the gaps where we see them
and stem the tide of disrepair or despair.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
I might not have a lot of money,
but I have my camera and my eyes…perhaps through them you and I can see what an
awesome Gem of a country we have and perhaps live lives that help it thrive and
shine.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Oh and one more thing, I have chosen
to randomly follow and promote all blogs and Facebook pages that build an
authentic Ugandan picture in the hopes that someday we can all meet up, look
back and say we did it.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
I want to be like those two ladies a mentioned, sold out to my countries well being that i am willing to stand up and do something with my resources and what little grit i posses. So I am changing my country one <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ThePhotographyofAndrewPacutho" target="_blank">image</a> at a time…hopefully.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01011243269323811393noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4344569328344178068.post-14287047285540112962015-08-07T16:58:00.000-07:002015-08-11T15:43:28.433-07:00I wish i could write....i wish i could write<br />
but i cant<br />
my eyes too tired<br />
the hands to weary<br />
and my heart too heavy<br />
<br />
i wish i could write but i cant<br />
my mind too race-y<br />
dashing from thought to thought<br />
many too scary<br />
<br />
i wish i could write<br />
but i cant<br />
for an audience to heady<br />
on their own ideas<br />
captive of the trending trend<br />
too busy liking<br />
<br />
i wish i could write<br />
but i cant<br />
too many people pretending<br />
i know you just not getting<br />
anything that i'm saying<br />
<br />
i wish i could write<br />
but i cant<br />
because people don't read<br />
no that's not true<br />
they read but they don't heed<br />
<br />
I wish i could write<br />
but i cant<br />
like a woman who gives of her fruit<br />
i am tired of whoring my words<br />
to an ungrateful horde<br />
<br />
i wish i could write<br />
but i cant<br />
i have decided to gather my tattered virtue<br />
and cast my pearls no more<br />
before another steaming herd<br />
<br />
i wish i could write<br />
but i cant<br />
No its not me,<br />
Its you.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01011243269323811393noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4344569328344178068.post-45882150561837444162015-03-18T17:10:00.000-07:002015-03-18T17:10:44.076-07:00The problem is choice.....<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Sometimes we need to find one
single truth and hang on to it. Like an anchor in an out of body experience It
provides the tether that keeps you grounded; allows you freedom to venture out
but more importantly it allows you to find you way back to a safe place when
all the craziness of doubt sweeps in.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
For many of us, that hope was the
idea that we were made for more. That our every step was ordered and despite
calamity the ending was written and we won. There was this grand scheme in
which, we were told, were an integral part, that without our involvement this
great cosmic plan would Fail and that because we were such an important part of
this plan all things would work out for our good. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
This hope, this dream kept us
grounded. We limited our exposure to sin and temptation and tempered our flesh
with fasting and much prayer. We binged on the word as a stockpile of
ammunition against the bombardments the devil would surely send our way. We pushed through doubt, pain
and fear, cheered on by the camaraderie around us.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Then we grew up a little.
Suddenly the world was much bigger and out role in the cosmic plan grew larger.
But I suspect more than that we suddenly were cast into an arena where the
fastest and strongest survived. There was no room for weakness. The faith was
separated into echelons and you were at the bottom. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
You are still part of the
machine, the great plan but you are such a small cog in a massive array of cogs
and wheels. But unlike a part of an actual machine, a piece of forged metal
that would merrily go spinning till infinitely, you are human, flesh, bone and
blood and feeling and at that realization( your smallness) you are feeling a
little lied to. I you were important but in light of all this you question your
importance.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
And so still hoping you take you place
as part of the machine though your heart never really settles. A few spins and
you start to wonder what the heck this is all about. You can see the machinery
and hear it grind. You can feel the shudder and the shake and see the different
parts accomplish some task. Some days you even feel the forward motion, but
down here, in the heart of the belly of the beast all you see is wheels and
cogs spinning towards some unseen and unknown destination. You know someone is
driving but you haven the foggiest where or why.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
I describe not the reality but
rather the feelings we sometimes have to wade through. We prostrate before a
God whose will and plan is absolute and even though he leans down and whispers
in our ears we fathom it not and so we believe, have faith and hope.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
We chose to believe, have faith
and hope. That word choose…indeed choice is at the heart of this faith and we
actually do have the freedom to choose to keep following. That is for me the
real difference, the real reason that you should hang on; you CHOSE this faith.
And if per chance you accepted because of fear, group think etc you must always
chose or perhaps now decide to choose to stick to this faith.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Anyone who has followed my posts
will notice I never hide what is going through my head and heart whether it be
doubt or pain. BUT I am still here not because I saw some powerful vision or
revelation but because I chose this faith and even now, while choked by the
waves of this world I chose this faith hoping and believing that Jesus will
reach out his hand and pull me up. I cannot give up or give in because I chose
this path. And even if he does not save me, even now I still chose it….until
the day I do not.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
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<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01011243269323811393noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4344569328344178068.post-81169978677915038152015-03-13T17:29:00.003-07:002015-03-13T17:29:21.698-07:00Hello Fear....<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
I was about to start this post
with, “I have not written in a while” but I realize that is redundant. What is
more important is why I haven’t written in a long time.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Over the last few months a
silence has crept over my soul. I slow, dark mist, a dark miasma of dread and
fear, like a fog on a marsh it has hang around for long. Nothing I do can
dispel this, well let’s call it what it is; fear.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Fear! Andrew Pacutho, afraid?
Those that know me will find this hard to believe and still some will
say, “but we are human, it happens” I find the timidity and fear as puzzling as
most and the reasons a little confusing. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
For the first time my fear does
not come from outside but from within. Not within my spirit or my soul but within
a community that i have called home and family for the longest time. It’s like being of a different opinion gets
you cast into the pile of the weird believer or worse backslider or labeled with
something akin to you don’t know what you say and if you were plugged right it
would all make sense.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
While I have argued this out with
friends close to me I still find the idea that I cannot be broken and messed up
in church totally wrong. It’s like going to a hospital and being stigmatized for
being sick. There are so many questions
and so few answers. The usual mantra of “God’s word has all the answers” feels
hollow. Otyooo!!! I just blasphemed or something right? If the teacher cannot
make plain the text, then the text, or the teacher or the student has a
problem. I suspect it’s either the student or the teacher. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
But more than that is the fear to
speak out against perceived wrong things in church because suddenly you are or
have been made to feel unsure of yourself. You can’t be right when you are the only one
who seems to see things a certain way right? They can’t all be wrong. Can they?
If you are wrong, how wrong are you and must you keep shouting if you are that
wrong? After all if you were right other people would stand with you right? <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
These questions can drive a man
insane. I am still searching for the answer, praying that a light would shine
in this fog but until then I shall sit in the back silent and do battle with my
soul. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
I shall leave church alone….and
hopefully church will leave me alone…for a while.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01011243269323811393noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4344569328344178068.post-89876727601507444852015-01-26T13:21:00.002-08:002015-01-26T13:21:12.885-08:00The Mountain Top and The Purge <div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Every Year we make resolutions. Every Year we fail at these resolutions. In frustration or protest some abandon new year resolution making while other find other ways to focus their year around simple achievable goals, new philosophies of self improvements or whittle away at their lists until they have just one thing they aim to achieve that year. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
i like to start my year with a mountain top approach and a yearly purge/renewal. For the mountain top view i start mostly before God. I take time to meditate and peruse the year past and the year ahead. I then ask for a general direction, an over arching leading so to speak. It may be a sudden realisation about that year or a sense of energy and excitement that set the tempo for my next 365. Sometimes its an exact phrase or direction. Other times a sweep of the hand denoting an area that needs attention.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
for this year, its excitement and a sense of anticipation, that leaning forward in expectation of something great and grand and with this the feeling of exhilaration and confidence that anything you set to do you will achieve. its like that newness that comes after a heavy downpour. Everything is fresh and new and the old and dirty has been washed away. Its a clean slate and you can scribe anew the paths for tomorrow.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The Purge is mostly about passing along all physical possessions that have served their purpose or would better serve someone else. Its also about getting rid of some of that clutter that builds up around my life, desk and closet over the years. This can be in the form of a donation to charity or selling some of these items and making better use of the money. I normally purge clothes. I don't give away old clothes, i try to give away perfectly good items that i just haven't worn that year or no longer fancy. Sometimes i still fancy them but realise someone else needs it or would look better in it hence i pass it along. Jeans, shirts, shoes and more are moved forward. If they are too old i donate to those willing with the express knowledge that these are old and worn. If i can re-purpose and up-cycle them i do so or give to people that can.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
This last step is my way of reminding myself that things are not the thing and there is more to life. I am reminded that things are simply tools for a purpose or an end while having a mountain top is a chance for God to set the stage for my journey. Its me seeing the big picture that will keep me moving when i am in some deep dark ravine or remind me that there is so much more when i am at the top of some hill or mountain, a constant reminder that there is more to come. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
these acts can be a series of things or just one simple thing. I changed my computer Operating system for example. i spend so much time looking at this screen i figured what better way to reminder me of the newness of this year than a totally different way of working. I am getting rid of furniture(if you want to buy i have a huge table/Desk and a bookshelf) and some gadgets. many clothes wont survive either.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
This year get rid of more...give more...</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01011243269323811393noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4344569328344178068.post-67560553858713666622014-12-03T16:38:00.000-08:002014-12-03T16:38:16.952-08:00A Thousand (a very short poem) <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4ZQkl_qbO2c/VH-sT0Q9JKI/AAAAAAAAAog/s-pMZCmENDg/s1600/tumblr_ne1yinlyoh1sj3omto3_1280.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4ZQkl_qbO2c/VH-sT0Q9JKI/AAAAAAAAAog/s-pMZCmENDg/s1600/tumblr_ne1yinlyoh1sj3omto3_1280.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-61qUj7pf468/VH-sT61g5MI/AAAAAAAAAoc/Ti-eePM0Bvk/s1600/tumblr_lw41yltrsN1qb0i95o1_500.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-61qUj7pf468/VH-sT61g5MI/AAAAAAAAAoc/Ti-eePM0Bvk/s1600/tumblr_lw41yltrsN1qb0i95o1_500.jpg" height="200" width="154" /></a><span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; line-height: 15.4559993743896px;"></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; line-height: 15.4559993743896px;"><span style="line-height: 15.4559993743896px;">See me</span></span></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; line-height: 15.4559993743896px;">One thousand freckles on</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; line-height: 15.4559993743896px;">my face</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; line-height: 15.4559993743896px;">See you </span></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; line-height: 15.4559993743896px;">One thousand kisses for every</span></div>
<span class="text_exposed_show" style="background-color: white; color: #141823; display: inline; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; line-height: 15.4559993743896px;"><div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="line-height: 15.4559993743896px;">freckle on your face</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="line-height: 15.4559993743896px;">and when i ran out of space</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="line-height: 15.4559993743896px;">i will move to the rest....</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="line-height: 15.4559993743896px;">of your body'</span></div>
</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01011243269323811393noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4344569328344178068.post-50253636807678626212014-11-03T18:49:00.003-08:002014-11-03T18:49:44.106-08:0030 Rock: Partial musings on turning 30 (Saying Thank You)<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">I shall start by quoting the opening lines of
Charles Dickens’ novel A Tale of Two Cities.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="background: white; color: #252525; font-family: "Angsana New","serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;">It was the best of times, it was the worst of
times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness, it was the
epoch of belief, it was the epoch of incredulity, it was the season of Light,
it was the season of Darkness, it was the spring of hope, it was the winter of
despair, we had everything before us, we had nothing before us, we were all
going direct to Heaven, we were all going direct the other way</span><o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<i><span style="background: white; color: #252525; font-family: "Angsana New","serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">There is no
better way to describe my year. So much has gone wrong and yet so much went
right, and left and a little over that way. Yet as I ponder my birthday, I am
grateful. I don’t know that I would do it any other way.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">In the
beginning as I despaired the state of my life, I chose to remember the people
that have been there for me, stood by me and tolerated my shit. Being out of a
job so soon in that year I decided I would dedicate this year to my friends and
paying them back in kind…God knows I hadn’t a coin to buy them even a ‘rolex’. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">To all the
guys I met in Egypt, I cannot dare mention you all because 1) I probably can’t
remember all the names 2) I can’t spell them right 3) Someone might get mad if I
forget to mention them. But my flat mates both the ladies and guys apartment,
you guys Egypt’s winter days livable.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">To
Hannington a friend in lean times, you are a man of few words but many stories.
You believed enough in my dream to invest so much of yourself. I Hope that when
I do make it in this photography business I can repay you one way or another.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">To Diana,
Beqy, Racheal, Pesh and Kamphat, my oldest frie</span>nds both in time and age…lol…you
guys have provided stability and way to remain anchored. You provide a window
into the past and a reminder of where we have come from. I have the pictures to
prove it.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">Kamphat you
have been a companion while I slowly came unhinged, with no judgment or
condemnation you listened and allowed me vent. You have been extra special to
me this season. I hope I can pay you back.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">Edith, your
belief in me has always been a buoy when the waves of uncertainty and doubt
tossed me around. We have been friends and not friends many times but you have
always been there when the dust settled. You saved my dreams and thus on many occasions
saved me. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">Adrian, I am
sure you are shocked you are part of this list but for some reason you have
always inspired me and challenged me. We have been through some pretty weird
times and I you are a source of inspiration in these things of art and design.
From the days in that windowless Equatorial mall office to Elemental Edge who
you are has been an immense blessing. Just know I blow for you often.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">Martin,
gosh..this would have been a really terrible journey if you had not come along.
Yours will be a short salutation mostly because Vegas never spills its secrets
hehehe<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">Sarah and
Jacky, even in this post you are together. Your unfettered love and compassion
and generosity has made many gloomy days brighter. Just know that what you have
done for me, well lets just say there is always room in my heart for you. There
is nothing that you would ever need that if I had you I would not give you.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">Sarah and
Olivia, let’s just say that I am glad that some people still see the white
underneath all the dark soot of life’s many battles. Why you have so much faith
in me is still a mystery that I hope Is revealed soon kubanga me I am confused
mob. Keep believing, it gives some of us hope.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">Patience,
there aren’t words to describe how we met. Random comes close naye it does not
do justice. We have walked through some of my darkest and lowest moments, we
have chatted, argues, laughed and more. I pray that I am there for you just as
much as you have been for me. You deserve all the good life gives and more.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">Odeke Onyait,
you have been a constant challenge and inspiration. When I grow up I want to be
as focused and ambitious as you are. May many good things come your way. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">Allow me
also to apologise. There are many friends that I let down massively this year.
I am sorry. I hope that the gaff is not so big that we cannot overcome it but
in the event that it is, well just know being your friend has been an honour
and that I am grateful for the friendship.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">When I am
rich and famous and they ever asked me to write a book I suspect it would be a
photo book with portraits of all the people who have been with me throughout
this journey of life because each of you has taught me something that has
changed my life or revealed something about me. You have nurtured and
challenged my dreams and ambitions. You have supported and encouraged me,
rebuked and corrected me, laughed and cried and simply shared life with me. For
that I am grateful. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">I simply
could not have done it without you.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01011243269323811393noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4344569328344178068.post-17517041344941108172014-09-23T05:11:00.000-07:002014-09-23T05:11:44.296-07:00Imagine the Possibilities<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">I love the word imagine. It opens up
possibilities and worlds like no other. In many regards its gives permission
for people to let go of all restraint knowing that parameters have been set
that allow them to safely dream.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">Now imagine that these crazy ideas came true. What
wonders would fill this world as each individual sought out that one idea that
drives them daily or chased that fantastic invention or product. Indeed imagine.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">Now imagine a world where every child was guaranteed
not just good health, but an adequate education and after that a business
mentoring opportunity geared solely to helping them achieve their full
potential both for their self-actualization but also to improve their country.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">Imagine a world where all businesses did it for
the children. Child friendly policies i.e. no company invested in anything that
would affect the welfare of any child be it psychological or environmental are
the core of all company values. Imagine they did not just stop there but that
they directly invested in children, education, parks, hospitals and research.
Imagine a world where it was all done for the children.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">The Child Rights and Business Practices seeks
just this, a new approach to business centered around, not just the wellbeing of
children but businesses that are investing directly in children. The first of
its kind launched in Uganda, we join a global community of people that realize that
children are the future and the present and investing in them ensures that our
nation and our planet will have a tomorrow infinitely better than today.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">Launched at an event at the Serena Hotel, the
private sector, government and various CSOs gathered to reaffirm commitment and
urge greater funding for children. For a country with more than half of its
population under the age of 15 this push would serve to secure a better life
for millions of children country wide.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">Imagine this future. Now imagine we achieved
it. Now let’s go do something about it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01011243269323811393noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4344569328344178068.post-91455492384315000742014-08-25T01:45:00.000-07:002014-08-25T02:05:06.009-07:00One death too many.<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
I am back after ages with one very important message.<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">What would you say if I told you that every day
over 40 people died daily? You would probably want to know what is killing them
and where this killing is taking place. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">What if I told you that this was going on
around you, a silent epidemic of death happening across the country in health
centers and homes across the country? All the victims of this epidemic are children
under the age of five.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">Just imagine the potential that is snuffed out
daily. Yes I belabour the point of death simply because no one child should have
to die from preventable causes some as simple as being able to make it to a
health center in time. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">18,000 children die daily in this country. 45%
of child mortality is mainly due to malnutrition.1 in 18 children die before
their first birthday while one in eleven before they are five. Despite our ability to feed ourselves, 1 in 8
children go to bed hungry. These are some of the shocking statistics. There are
many more that would break your heart.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">Many of us don’t feel this because we live in urban
centers and have ready access to health care systems. They may not be the best
but there is a clinic or hospital within 10 minutes of most of our residences.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">For mothers in the village, 2miles to the
nearest health center is heaven. On average most have to walk 7 miles to receive
any form of health care. We must and we can do something about this. We cannot
sit idle back while countless lives are lost right in our back yard.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">As a country we have achieved a modicum of
success however we still need to do more to bring this number as low as
possible. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">What can we do? For one educate yourself. One cannot
change what they do not know or understand. 2. Engage, there are countless ways
to be part of this campaign. You could support organizations like <a href="http://www.savethechildren.net/what-we-do" target="_blank">Save theChildren </a>for one 3. Be pro-active. You have MPs, pester the. You have a voice,
speak up. Raise awareness and let our governments and leaders no that we shall
not stand for this. 4. If they will not help, gather like minded individuals
from your area and adopt a health center or something. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">Many health centers simply need things like
surgical gloves, pain killers, mattresses or beds. We may not change the whole
country in one sweep but we can save one mothers and child one small action at
a time.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">We now have less that 500 days to the deadline
for the achievement of the Millennium development goal to reduce child
mortality globally. Don’t stand idly by the side line. Be a part of the campaign
in your own small way. <a href="http://everyone.savethechildren.net/" target="_blank">Every child is you</a>.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01011243269323811393noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4344569328344178068.post-5797865152008296902014-06-11T17:21:00.000-07:002014-06-11T17:21:07.468-07:00Why I signed the stop kutesa petition.<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">Let me be clear. No I did not think the
petition would work and No I did not agree with the author of the petition
riding on our (Uganda’s) unpopularity for its lay on homosexuality. Those were
not the reasons I signed the petition.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">I signed the petition as an act of defiance. It
was An attempt however feeble at demonstrating my unhappiness with the state of
my country. I viewed it as my chance to say to the powers that by, “I am
unhappy” on a stage that was both out of their control and was in the lime
light enough to draw some attention. It was a man’s plea for help in the
passing headlights of a car despite knowing no one would stop.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">I also firmly believe that for Kutesa to get
that job would be a reward. It would be an endorsement of a man who while the
law did not find him guilty is believed to have actually stolen billions for
personal gain. For an illustrious organization like the UN such a tainted
figure would not be allowed to take on such a responsibility. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">Finally I hoped that this would be an
opportunity for the above mentioned illustrious organization to prove itself
true to its values. I have been proved wrong. I also viewed it as an
indictment, a corner of ethics for the UN, a chance for it to hang itself with
its own rope and in my books they have done so rightly cementing at least in my
view their purely ceremonial and biased position especially in reference to
third world politics. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">That said there is a silver cloud to this dark
lining. To take up his post Mr Kutesa will have to resign his position as a
Member of the Ugandan Parliament. This means that his constituents get a chance
at electing a new representative who hopefully will fight for their benefits
and concerns. This too is an opportunity for the opposition to fill a vacant
seat in the house and sway and already imbalanced legislature. If the Luwero by
elections are anything to go about this, is a great possibility.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">It also allows room for a moderate ruling party
member to take his place either in parliament or as minister of foreign affairs.
There are many among them that would be better suited. And if none should take
his place that is of greater ethical grain…well we lose nothing.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">Greatest of all good fortune is that this role
thrusts him into the lime light. This is 365 days of full on international
scrutiny from home and abroad into not just his alledged corrupt tendencies but
his leadership and more. I cant wait to see what this light shall unearth.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">In the interests of balance feel free to read
these other articles on the subject and make up your own mind.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/notes/ganzi-muhanguzi-isharaza/on-kutesa-uganda-and-being-a-patriot/741067942582873?comment_id=741323862557281&offset=0&total_comments=46&notif_t=note_reply">https://www.facebook.com/notes/ganzi-muhanguzi-isharaza/on-kutesa-uganda-and-being-a-patriot/741067942582873?comment_id=741323862557281&offset=0&total_comments=46&notif_t=note_reply</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><a href="http://www.monitor.co.ug/OpEd/Commentary/Sam-Kutesa-has-many-critics/-/689364/2337314/-/sl8d5t/-/index.html?fb_action_ids=10152440370840605&fb_action_types=og.recommends&fb_source=aggregation&fb_aggregation_id=288381481237582">http://www.monitor.co.ug/OpEd/Commentary/Sam-Kutesa-has-many-critics/-/689364/2337314/-/sl8d5t/-/index.html?fb_action_ids=10152440370840605&fb_action_types=og.recommends&fb_source=aggregation&fb_aggregation_id=288381481237582</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01011243269323811393noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4344569328344178068.post-16706623606228382512014-04-25T03:57:00.004-07:002014-04-25T03:57:59.303-07:00Following your dreams. Part…I forget.<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">Being the social media fan in the first stages
of addiction that I am, the first thing that I reach for when I wake up is my
phone. I turn it on, hit refresh and see the notifications come pouring in. this
morning was no different except for the fact that I was sneezing like </span>Capra
aegagrus hircus which for all the rest of you is a goat.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
So I came upon this copied text
attributed to Mike Rowe from Dirty Jobs, one of my favourite Shows when I have
access to DStv. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<i>”Stop looking for the “right”
career, and start looking for a job. Any job. Forget about what you like. Focus
on what’s available. Get yourself hired. Show up early. Stay late. Volunteer
for the scut work. Become indispensable. You can always quit later, and be no
worse off than you are today. But don’t waste another year looking for a career
that doesn’t exist. And most of all, stop worrying about your happiness.
Happiness does not come from a job. It comes from knowing what you truly value,
and behaving in a way that’s consistent with those beliefs.<br />
Many people today resent the suggestion
that they’re in charge of the way the feel. But trust me, Parker. Those people
are mistaken. That was a big lesson from Dirty Jobs, and I learned it several
hundred times before it stuck. What you do, who you’re with, and how you feel
about the world around you, is completely up to you”<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
I was like ouch. The truth of the statement hit me. This was me mostly
any ways. But then I also hated on the person who posted it because they had it
all together and seriously it sounded like some self-righteous drivel. That and
many other thoughts and feelings races through my mental synapses in like the
older brothers of a nano second known as minutes.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
But I stopped myself. I brushed it aside. I would think about it later.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
The funny things about social media and the internet, actually the media
as a whole, they show only part of the picture. For every story, post, tweet,
angle, there are several more to choose from, the story in the story, behind
the story besides the story. As a journalist I should know. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
The same is true for this brief excerpt of words of wisdom that Mike
shared with us. This brings me to the crux of this article. Call it lessons I have
learned from those around me as I chase my dream.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Do not judge yourself by the stories of the successful. Even in their
most “candid” biographies the difficulties are skimmed over the successes
glorified. I have read my share of these and they all seem to imbue the subject
with special skill and what not. There are exceptions to these rules but many
of them will leave you feeling…well feeling.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Don’t pace yourself like these people either. Different country. Different
time, Different circumstance. Okay so person x started early in business by
selling lemonade and from these early seeds a company was born…highly unlikely.
There are all those <a href="http://piecesoflighte.blogspot.com/2013/06/chasing-your-dreams-space-in-between.html" target="_blank">years In between</a> no one is telling us about. It’s like the
dark ages or Jesus, no one knows what he was doing between ages 12 to 30. Set rigorous
goals for yourself based on your knowledge of yourself with one notable
exception, they should always even if ever so slightly exceed your limit. That way
you shall keep growing.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Ask questions. Better a stupid question than a stupid mistake. Read all
you can. I believe that the simple act of reading, anything and everything
lends value in itself. Try these for a start. Immerse yourself in the field one
way or another and shimmy up to people within your reach that can teach you. This
last point is key. One thing I have found about Uganda’s so called successful
is that their attitudes and manner to people who were where they used to be is
lacking. So actually find someone who will teach you not just use you as a tool…<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Embrace failure. Why you ask? It will happen and sometimes it’s the best
evaluation of our whole selves. Failure is my greatest enemy and my greatest
ally. However do not start an affair with it. Keep it close but not too close.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Be curious, always. Perhaps you could add be brave and be adventurous. Sometimes
as you try to knock down a wall on one side, a door might open on the other. Take
the side paths and the detours. Sometimes they have benefit in themselves. The best
route to your destination is not always a straight line. <a href="http://piecesoflighte.blogspot.com/2013/11/everybody-starts-from-somewhere.html" target="_blank">We all start from somewhere.</a><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Seize opportunity, any opportunity that affords you the chance to learn. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Follow the rules, break the rules, and toss out the rules. Key is,
sometimes there are no rules. Make some along the way. In all you do, the only
way to get to where you need or want to be is to stay aware of your destination
and whatever the road is, keep walking.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1GUBQ3m2yIE/U1o_bUXq3MI/AAAAAAAAAbk/Z3TKvvYTpU4/s1600/keep-calm-and-keep-walking-35+(1).png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1GUBQ3m2yIE/U1o_bUXq3MI/AAAAAAAAAbk/Z3TKvvYTpU4/s1600/keep-calm-and-keep-walking-35+(1).png" height="200" width="171" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
P.S> here is the whole <a href="http://www.lifebuzz.com/mike-rowe/" target="_blank">link to that Mike Rowe article</a>. When you read
the whole thing it puts that little excerpt in perspective. Here is to your dreams coming true. Keep walking.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01011243269323811393noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4344569328344178068.post-71439172373117824282014-04-19T21:42:00.000-07:002014-04-19T21:42:38.883-07:00I AM AFRAID OF BEING SPIRITUAL (probably this is part 1)<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">I know weird right?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">In my senior four vacation, I attended every
almost every overnight (all night prayer). Those that know my church know this
was no ordinary feat. There used to be on a good day 10 people in a cavernous
cathedral with only one drum and two hoarse and sometimes off key worship song
leaders and the endless hours of the night ahead.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">In my senior years of my secondary education I was
at church every evening. My school was a walking distance away and so this was
not particularly hard. But I was there literally every evening even on days
when I was doing my final papers.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">I volunteered for every mission and outreach program
or activity I could. I was part of the youth team responsible for camp prayer
and boy did we pray. I prophesied, dreamt dreams and saw visions. There were
words of knowledge and works of faith. I prayed for hours and read books by the
spiritually mighty, every biography or text about anointing, spiritual warfare,
gifts, prophecy, prayer, miracles and more was my daily reading diet. I was in
the mix. But I don’t do that any more.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">What happened?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">Did I backslide?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">Have I lost something?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">I don’t know?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">I guess something snapped, broke, or shattered
into too many pieces to put back together. I don’t know. I just know that the
things that I used to do and feel so proud of I no longer do and care little
for. According to some I am less spiritual.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">Do I still read my Bible? Yes. A little less
religiously but I peruse through it from time to time. It’s still difficult now
as it was back then. Do I still pray for hours? Yeah….if you combine all the
minutes and seconds that I fire questions and mumbles and random thoughts at
God, they do come to a couple of hours. I don’t do much of the outside
gymnastics though.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">So this morning I woke up early and decided to
pray, asking God that I would be closer to him and such and the moment a
picture of that earlier spiritual lifestyle flashed into my head I recoiled. I don’t
want to be spiritual like that. Instead what I am now suits me. And what is
that? I will tell you.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">I am broken. I am fed up. I am tired and I am
real. Why do I prefer it this way? Well it’s easier to live life. I don’t have
to prove anything to God or man. I don’t have to have it all together all the
time. I don’t have to know all the answers. Prayer is simplified. Faith is
simplified. Life is simplified. I don’t have to rack up "spiri"
points to qualify or do the "spiri" stuff to fit in. I don’t have to
walk the walk and talk the talk of the church simply that of the faith I have
chosen.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">I sin a lot. I repent a lot. I am committed a
lot. I walk, I stumble, I fall and I crawl but ever forward is my motion. I am
unsure and uncertain most of the time but my next step is assured and illuminated
and that’s all that matters. I have no success; I need no success…well not in
the common understanding anyways.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">I am hungry but I am full. I am weak,
constantly but aware that there is a power assigned to me. I don’t like going
to church or attending services except perhaps for the fellowship that follows
the religious gyrations of the service. I am steadfast but always changing,
evolving growing.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">I know where I want to be, need to be but I am
content with where I am knowing that I am always a traveller, constantly pack
and ready even though the sojourn last a while. I am content with the house but
always looking out the window to the distance, waiting for the call, the
urging. Then I will gather my things, sweep my abode and walk, looking back no
further on towards what is real and truly spiritual…whatever God reveals that
to be.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01011243269323811393noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4344569328344178068.post-89958531905331124242014-04-12T19:18:00.002-07:002014-04-12T19:19:47.717-07:00The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.(why mega churches are wrong)<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"> </span>.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">If there was one sentence that would personify
my sentiment it would read simply “I am tired”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">Before you scroll on expecting another rant…hmmm…I
guess you should scroll on because this is indeed another rant but one worth
reading…I hope.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">I shall start with the title of this piece. Wikipedia
refers to The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier as </span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: white; color: #252525; font-family: "Helvetica","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;">“</span></span><i><span style="background: white; color: #252525; font-family: "Helvetica","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;">a
monument in dedication to the services of an unidentified soldier</span>” and</i><span style="background: white; color: #252525; font-family: "Helvetica","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;"> were first suggested during the First World
War. The tomb normally contains the body of a fallen soldier deemed
unidentifiable and this representative of the many heroes that fought to defend
their nations and freedoms.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="background: white; color: #252525; font-family: "Helvetica","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="background: white; color: #252525; font-family: "Helvetica","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;">The stories of soldiers of yore who even as history considered confined
them to the wrong side of the conflict still fought for the same reasons the
good guys did, and died defending those ideals. To give the ultimate sacrifice
takes courage and humility. Many a soldier will get a medal but even more will
die unknown deaths and therein is my conundrum.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="background: white; color: #252525; font-family: "Helvetica","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="background: white; color: #252525; font-family: "Helvetica","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;">So here lies the start of my rant. I am tired of mega churches and super
star pastors. I am tired of the Hollywood style pulpit sets and the media
tweaked TV spots, programs and promotions combined with the well-oiled social
media machine. I am just simply tired of the self-conscious self centered churches
of my day and age.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="background: white; color: #252525; font-family: "Helvetica","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="background: white; color: #252525; font-family: "Helvetica","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;">Jesus was famous but he never advertised. I highly doubt he would have
built mega synagogues. I am sure of these because Jerusalem probably had some
big ones out there and he could have taken ownership and turned them around. But
he did not. He actually seemed to not care too much about what people said
about him except when it was to push The Gospel.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="background: white; color: #252525; font-family: "Helvetica","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="background: white; color: #252525; font-family: "Helvetica","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;">So why do we do all these things. Being a journalist I understand the
need to get our message out. In fact I think with all this tech is just silly
not to do so. But who is at the center of these publicity spots, is it Jesus or
the “man of God”?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="background: white; color: #252525; font-family: "Helvetica","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="background: white; color: #252525; font-family: "Helvetica","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;">Let’s take those mega budgets and actually turn them to helping the
communities in which we live and in which our churches are located. Build a
school, open a home for vulnerable teens, run a soup kitchen, start an adult
literacy programme, initiate crisis pregnancy centers, start a carpentry
workshop, fix a road, drill a borehole, for goodness sake do something that
actually benefits the community long after your church building will be long
and gone.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="background: white; color: #252525; font-family: "Helvetica","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="background: white; color: #252525; font-family: "Helvetica","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;">When I get to heaven I shall look down in shame because we spent
millions of beautification while at the same time cutting down outreach
budgets, we bought stronger locks for our doors just to keep unwanted people
out and promoted a brand of Christianity that placed the building and the
service men above the heart and mission of the Lord Jesus Christ.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="background: white; color: #252525; font-family: "Helvetica","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="background: white; color: #252525; font-family: "Helvetica","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;">I believe like that soldier we are called to give of our lives daily for
our family, friends, nations, continents and the world in general and like that
soldier the only fame we should be is that we have been given and not that we
seek.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="background: white; color: #252525; font-family: "Helvetica","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="background: white; color: #252525; font-family: "Helvetica","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;">Here ends my rant.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="background: white; color: #252525; font-family: "Helvetica","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="background: white; color: #252525; font-family: "Helvetica","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 115%;">Thanks be to God.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01011243269323811393noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4344569328344178068.post-80161542437352984162014-03-16T18:24:00.000-07:002014-03-16T18:24:23.518-07:00WHY I love women.<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">My previous <a href="http://piecesoflighte.blogspot.com/2014/03/i-love-women.html" target="_blank">blog post</a> about my love for women
stirred up a little dust devil. Not enough to warrant tornado warning but
enough to prompt me to explain a few things.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">There is indeed a thin line between love and
what I shall call lust. It’s almost an imperceptible slide from an admire
glance to a leering stare, from suave and cool to creep and gross and the sad
thing is that the only way you notice is when the females start giving you a
very wide berth.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">I will also admit that there are days when my look
was not so innocent. I shall not defend that. In fact I shall say I knew what
it was. However there are days when my glance was just that a glance and with
it an appreciation for the female form. This “other” glance happened often
enough for me to start asking the question, “is it possible to actually look at
a woman without intent to undress her with your eyes or engage in coitus and or
be misunderstood and sent to church to be exorcised of demons of lust” because
here I was looking but not having all those bad feelings attached.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">This has led me to a couple of questions and
conclusions most of them based on common sense and a general remembrance of
scripture. Apologies again, I do not normally remember scriptural specifics.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">So this is what I think. Eyes were made for
looking, bodies for admiring and the brain and heart for regulation while the
bible provided the said regulation and code of conduct.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">I love women’s bodies. Yes I do. I am sorry
ladies but a walking brain is not that attractive. A brain within a beautiful shaped
head with a pleasant face; now that is attractive. Like the proverbial chicken
and egg type story, I wonder what is worse being stared at too much or not
being stared at all. I am not a woman I will
never know.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">Just because we have eyes and they have awesome
bodies does not mean that we have license to be lascivious. Outer beauty is
what attracts the bee, it’s the inner beauty that keeps the bee or keeps it
coming back.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">I love women because they are not men. I love
that they always normally seek togetherness over men’s competitiveness. I like
that they intuitively know when you are hurting and somehow have the right
thing to say. I love that as a man, my woman’s (is that offensive) support
means more to me than anything and gives me courage to attempt to climb
mountains.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">I love their brains. I love a woman who can
read, and cook and watch TV at the same time. I just love that they can do
that. I love that women see beyond just the chiseled chin and statuesque figure
to the kind, gentle man within.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">They are mothers, carers and nurturers and they
don’t even have to be their own kids. My mother is a woman. That counts as a
reason to I think hehehe. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">Women are resilient, resourceful and strong. They
endure the greatest storms and still come out radiant and beautiful most of the
times. They never stop loving. They would die for those they love. They are
open with their sentiment and professions of said love.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">They are gently, kind, thoughtful and many
times generous. They cry….yeah I know that does not seem like a positive but
trust me a good cry sometimes beats a good gym workout. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">From the top of their heads to the tips of
their toes; from the depths of their hearts to the widths of their hips women
are awesome. They are awesome and mysterious in so many ways I am struggling to
find a way to list the. Simply put women are women and that’s awesome.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">This is the other side of the beauty coin. We need
both sides, at least as men and both sides are what make up beauty. While beauty
(on the outside at least) is only skin deep, the insides without the skin would
be fascinating but a little creeps I think and all those aeriform goodness
would have no individuality or identity.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">It would be impossible to list down the WHY of
my love for women but I hope I let those around me know every day that they are
beautiful both inside and out.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01011243269323811393noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4344569328344178068.post-46681621724822275782014-03-11T06:15:00.001-07:002014-03-11T06:15:20.630-07:00I Love Women.<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">I Love women. I wish I could back that up with some
spiritual jazz and perhaps a few scripturally correct placements of women,
showing how they helped me achieve some spiritual ideal. But sadly that is not
there. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">I just love women. And I love to look at women and no I
do not mean porn. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">I have been cursed with what I call the triple blade
of ecstasy. Yeah I know that sounds weird. But I will explain. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">I am a sanguine. According to all the reading I have
done sanguines have a weakness of the fair sex and this ranges from the
harmless friendzoned nice guy to the full blown ladies’ man cherry popper to
the downright low dirty hit and run player. For us women are a special
constellation under whose stars we are always happy and giddy. It does help
that we and the ladies get along.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">I am a choleric. This is my more dominant personality
trait. It has along of dark over tones but the most relevant one here is the
fact that I have an eye for detail. Trust me I notice the weirdest and smallest
things. For many of my friends, especially the ladies, this has been both a
curse and a blessing.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Thirdly, I am an artist. I come from a long line of
artists. This allows me to appreciate the simplest things and see beauty as it
is. Anyone who has done a simple course in are knows that the female form is a
big part of art. All manner of art based on the female form. Enough said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">To this already volatile mix add a dash of the male
gender and you have an explosive mix, Trinitrotoluene baby. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">But what’s the use of all this random information. I have
no idea. For a long time I have struggled with the fact that I actually love
looking at women. In my early years this was directed to pornography and objectifying
women. I noticed that it made me look at women with motives of the acts that I had
seen on the screen. Being a hormonal teenage adolescent did not help. It took
me a while to wash that stuff out of my system but honestly even now it’s one
of those skills we practice every day. Covenant with our eyes sort of thing.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">The other thing that happened when I was much older
was that I found that I was able to look at women without the attending weird
motive. I could actually appreciate the art in some of these paintings and
photographs. And I was totally confused. Had I stopped being sensitive and was I
now enjoying this stuff because my conscience and spirit was seared? Could I not
appreciate beauty without it feeling dirty and wrong? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">I suspect that conundrum was made us start the whole beauty
on the inside business. While I agree with it, I think its one side of the
equation. There needs to be the other side that balances it out. These two as
one part of the calculation are worked out with God’s word and his will on the
other side allowing us to seek, find and walk in that narrow path so to speak.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">A word of caution though. I could use the above argument to mask a porno
habit, or lust full tendency…it’s a thin line between art, eroticism and
pornography. To stay Pure is a constant daily battle and I bring myself before
God daily even as I buffet my flesh.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">A word on porn. I cannot stumble upon porn today without being made sick by it. some may say this is the best example of women liberation and sexual freedom but there is nothing beautiful or virtuous about porn. its gross and sad.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="line-height: 18px;">A word on sexcentric pics. i love photographs and follow many blogs pro and otherwise. i alway get pics of selfies showing off ass or figure, which in themselves are not sinful, God forbid that they were cause we all have one and some bigger than others, but when your sexual bits (for lack of a better word) are all you are proud of or all you seek or see as a man, both the viewer and the picture taker make me sad.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Please share, what are your views on beauty especially
physical beauty.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><br /></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01011243269323811393noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4344569328344178068.post-20492346029491609092014-01-28T07:40:00.001-08:002014-01-29T07:45:14.346-08:00Abolish Church...<div class="MsoNormal">
I am not always a good
christian at the best of times but I did promise myself and God that I would be
at least an honest one, about myself and the things around me and what my
thoughts are on them. This blog perhaps is a product of that.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
That being said let me
also warn you that what I do suggest at times and share may be borderline…to
what I am not sure. So just come with your seat belts buckled and your neck
well exercised cause you shall be shaking in agreement or disagreement or puzzlement
or all the above.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So here goes. I think
we need to abolish church. There I said it. I am of the opinion that church has
done more harm to Christianity than any coven of witches has or can. Perhaps I
shall dive into the many ways I think this has been done, or not, but here are
a few reasons why I think church should be banned…or perhaps highly regulated.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Church(s) are too busy
running themselves to actually pay attention to the business of feeding the
flock. There is a reason why Christianity moved away from the synagogue setting
to the house church or away from centralized worship to community based
services.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Over the years, as a
church gets a lot right its gets popular and this means that more people start
attending. So what was at first a small house church of 20 max is not twice
that number which means pay attention to all the finer details and as they do
this the cycle continues an before you know its you are 1000 people needing a
building, full time staff and some sort of over sight committee. This in turn
means that the flock has to pay more attention to the running of the church.
This then means that the great commission is slowly but surely pushed aside
until its forgotten.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The other knock on
effect of this is that the flock is no longer built up to survive in all
terrain and environments but to depend on the church and So go from
independence to dependence. I must point out that the institution on which they
are now dependent cannot meet their needs 100 percent.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Having worked in a
fairly big church setting for four years I have seen how the voice of God is
sometimes over looked because of the “more” pressing issues of salaries, the
staff does need to be paid, which in turn drives policy away from doing
ministry but to making money or at least saving money. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Now any good leader
knows that for every effort there must be some show of output or productivity.
But in the things of God one cannot easily quantify or qualify monies spent
towards a certain end after all he who tills the ground does not always get to
reap in this system of God’s. so money goes away from these “obscure” goals to
more real and “needed” things like maintaining church property etc. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Don’t get me wrong,
this is all well and good and since we do have the mega churchs,some of these policies
are m much needed. However we must constantly remind ourselves of the main
existence of the church both a witnesses and a community for growth and
community change.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So if this is not
being done or with all the resources
poured into the mega church with a limited and or minor out put or rather
lasting output we must, must rethink how or what we are doing after all
insanity is same methods expecting
different results each time.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Why is this critical?
Well lets be plain, the church is failing to make and impact and where it used
to make a difference is losing ground. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Imagine for a moment
If all the major church in this city went community centric. They found out
where all their members lived and encouraged them to meet in that area. They
then trained lay pastors or lay people to constantly visit these weekly meets
but also the individuals through out the year. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So borrowing from the
old testament<span lang="EN-GB">:</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span lang="EN-GB">Ex
18:20-21<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span lang="EN-GB">Teach
them the decrees and laws, and show them the way to live and the duties they
are to perform. <b>21 </b>But select
capable men from all the people — men who fear God, trustworthy men who hate
dishonest gain — and appoint them as officials over thousands, hundreds,
fifties and tens.NIV<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-GB">Imagine the impact this would have as we
steadily split and grow and split and as more and more people are taught to be
their brother and sisters keeper. Imagine also the load that shall be lifted
off pastors and the paradigm shift most of us will have when faced with
difficult questions of faith.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-GB"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-GB">The benefits of such small community
centers of fellowship cannot even begin to be listed. The cell based system
that has been adopted by many urban churches is a small picture of this but
even that comes screeching to a halt a few sticks shy of a bundle.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-GB"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-GB">Imagine all those massive church building
turned to services that actually meet needs in the community from schools,
community centers, kindergatens, roving clinics, soup kitchens, thrift shops
and even convert those parking lots into sports and play centers. I promise it
shall be more appreciated than those loud prayer over nights we carry out most
Fridays.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-GB"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-GB">Imagine pastors whose main job description
went beyond the church pulpit to actual consistent constant home visits where
he knew his community members my name or at least could pick them out of a
crowd and walked their journey of life and faith with them.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-GB"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-GB">Imagine a church that put people first and
was the center and heart of a community meeting needs all round. Just imagine a
church that was people centered before it looked at popularity. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-GB"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-GB">Let’s move away from people coming to
church for service to the church going to people to serve. Centralised offices
might be needed but definitely not service.<a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=4344569328344178068" name="_GoBack"></a></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-GB"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-GB">Like the late Mac Elvis I have been a
church boy all my life but I can promise you that I am continually looking
elsewhere for my needs to be met. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-GB"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-GB">Church as it stands now is in critical
health. Even now I hear the scythe of the grim reaper as he draws ever closer.
The church must adapt or die. Perhaps i am just being too dramatic hehehe.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01011243269323811393noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4344569328344178068.post-6386106083331827722013-12-15T15:26:00.002-08:002013-12-15T15:26:42.280-08:00Looking back...2013<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">FIRST DAY OF THE NEW
YEAR: HERE IS TO MAKING IT TO THE END IN WITHOUT DRAMA AND IN ONE PIECE.HERE IS
TO ENOUGH MONEY TO DO WHAT I NEED TO DO, STRENGTH TO GO THROUGH WHAT I NEED
TO,PATIENCE TO HANDLE ALL I NEED TO,VISION TO FOLLOW MY DREAM,DETERMINATION TO KEEP
GOING WHEN ALL ELSE SEEMS LOST,FAITH TO KEEP LOOKING UPWARDS AND HOPE TO KEEP
LOOKING FORWARDS.HERE IS TO MORE FRIENDS,MORE LAUGHS, SOULFUL CRYING, ERRATIC
EPILEPTIC TYPE MAD DANCING, GENIUS IDEAS,RANDOM SURPRISES,MORE GREAT
BOOKS,GREAT MOMENTS,GREAT FRIENDS,PEACEFUL NIGHTS AND RESTFUL SLEEPS.HERE IS TO
THE WOMAN OF MY DREAMS AND THE FULLNESS OF FAMILY AND GODS BLESSING. HERE IS TO
MAKING IT TO THE END OF THE YEAR IN ONE PIECE.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">That was my status update
on January 1<sup>st</sup> 2013. The year I coming to a close and if this list
was to be treated like a check list it would be:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">MAKING IT TO THE END IN
WITHOUT DRAMA: all I can say is drama, drama everywhere. Even when I was not
looking for it. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">AND IN ONE PIECE: all
limbs attached and working as expected. I give this one complete success. My back
and right shoulder could do with a bit of grease and fine tuning though.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">ENOUGH MONEY TO DO WHAT I
NEED TO DO:hmmmm I never starved but I did not have plenty.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">STRENGTH TO GO THROUGH
WHAT I NEED TO: I am here aren’t i?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">PATIENCE TO HANDLE ALL I
NEED TO: Good lord it almost killed me but I think I give this 50 percent<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">VISION TO FOLLOW MY
DREAM: a little blurry cause life got into my eyes but I am stumbling forward.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">DETERMINATION TO KEEP
GOING WHEN ALL ELSE SEEMS LOST: well when you cant go back all you can do is go
forward to technically yes on this one. I shall admit I did abandon a few
things on the way but I remember where I left them. I intend to go pick them up
later.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">FAITH TO KEEP LOOKING
UPWARDS AND: what can I say, when your at the bottom of the wall all you can do
it look upwards.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">HOPE TO KEEP LOOKING
FORWARDS: it must get better or else whats the use of going on. I must believe
that it will and so I hope, without it all else unravels.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">HERE IS TO MORE FRIENDS:
check mate on this one. Met lots of people.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">MORE LAUGHS: not enough of
this but I have a few days before the year is up.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">SOULFUL CRYING: did a lot
of this without the tears though. God saw. God understands.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">ERRATIC EPILEPTIC TYPE
MAD DANCING: yes yes yes. And with friends too.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">GENIUS IDEAS: hmmmm the
jury is out on this one but I did think most of them were at least decent ideas
when I thought of them.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">RANDOM SURPRISES: oh boy
did I have many of these…not all were good but hey specificity is what counts
next time I say stuff like this. So I cannot complain.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">MORE GREAT BOOKS: totally
yes on this one. Sadly most of them stayed on the bookshelves in the store.next
year I learn lock picking and cram the patrol system at the mall.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">GREAT MOMENTS: I think I had
many of these disguised as life.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">GREAT FRIENDS: made some
lost some.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">PEACEFUL NIGHTS AND: a
few…need more. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">RESTFUL SLEEPS.:
definitely need more.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">THE WOMAN OF MY DREAMS
AND THE. Met her I think naye there is a chasm between us…now to develop wings.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> FULLNESS OF FAMILY AND: family has been
awesome I cannot complain.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">GODS BLESSING: always
even when I don’t see them.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">HERE IS TO MAKING IT TO
THE END OF THE YEAR IN ONE PIECE. In a few days this shall be completely true.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #37404e; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01011243269323811393noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4344569328344178068.post-86377081087621705462013-11-29T14:24:00.000-08:002013-11-29T14:24:49.071-08:00Everybody starts from somewhere<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">When I was younger, because my teleportation
powers had not kicked in yet, the age of
30 was like the upper limit to all the cool and great things that I would do.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yQN_ITeprJ4/UpkTKgKfSBI/AAAAAAAAAX0/P7iUt96qz60/s1600/kid-superman.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yQN_ITeprJ4/UpkTKgKfSBI/AAAAAAAAAX0/P7iUt96qz60/s200/kid-superman.jpg" width="156" /></a><span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">In my head, by 30 I would obviously be married and
enjoying all the movie like bliss of a husband and wife including sex every day.
Yeah I realize how unrealistic that is but back then sex seemed like the best
reason to get married, especially for a true-love-waits card totting hyper
spiritual overzealous pubescent Homo sapiens.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">I also imagined I would have given up jeans and
t-shirts as I embraced my new found wealth and jobs and status in life. That I was
not looking forward to but imagined it was part of the growing up package. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">I believed I would be an admired member of the
church straddling succeeding at that precarious balance between work and
ministry. I even believe I would be giving lavishly to the church coffers and would
not need to heed those stuff old men and women at church stuck in the past.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Gc1uC_VKk7I/UpkTLNv4OPI/AAAAAAAAAYM/WezPMvKk-RU/s1600/kid-wolverine.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Gc1uC_VKk7I/UpkTLNv4OPI/AAAAAAAAAYM/WezPMvKk-RU/s200/kid-wolverine.jpg" width="156" /></a><span lang="EN-US">There were so many dreams and visions and
ambitions that filled my head each day and I prayed and planned for them as
best as I could. I read books. Wrote the vision down. Looked for partners who
dreamed as I dreamed. Declared prophetically. All this and more.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">I can confidently tell you that very little of
the stuff I dreamed about has come to pass when and how I thought it would. In fact
some dreams have been abandoned all together and as 30 is winking at me from
around the corner I still have a long to do list. But here are a few things
that have not really gone according to plan, the minor setbacks in a major
operation as it were.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">I am still very much a t-shirts and jeans guy. More
jeans and t-shirts than I think is healthy. Every time I have a dress shirt and
pants event I really really have to plan. Many times I am like, where did I leave
that shirt or I have to go buy a shirt just so people don’t get too bored of
the 4 shirts I have.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HHeoiH8DEtM/UpkTKxIsQuI/AAAAAAAAAX8/1qrF6flFb-I/s1600/kid-batman.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HHeoiH8DEtM/UpkTKxIsQuI/AAAAAAAAAX8/1qrF6flFb-I/s200/kid-batman.jpg" width="156" /></a><span lang="EN-US">I am definitely not married. Trust me I have
tried but chic’s can knife these days. But more importantly I am not too
bothered about being married at the moment. That does not mean I do not want to
get married but it has lost its urgency and shine.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">Sadly I am not having sex every day. I still
believe in abstinence and obedience to Gods word about that part of marriage
and life. I shall take this moment to say congratulations to all my married
friends, I hope the sex was worth the wait and if you did not wait…well I hope…well
I hope…hmmmm tight one.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">About the admired member of the church…hmmmm that’s
a long story and as of lathering the church coffers with my bounty…I don’t make
it rain but I sure as hell try to make it drizzle.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">So two things.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nNRU7FFdNKw/UpkTK8CfOYI/AAAAAAAAAX4/tO7rHu6xDvc/s1600/kid-thor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nNRU7FFdNKw/UpkTK8CfOYI/AAAAAAAAAX4/tO7rHu6xDvc/s200/kid-thor.jpg" width="156" /></a><span lang="EN-US">Our tomorrow is totally in the hands of God. We
can plan and do all that, in fact we should, but ultimately our path is the
Lords. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">The other is that you may not be where you want
to be at the moment but keep moving forward, we all had to start from
somewhere.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">May you find your second wind as you chase all
your dreams.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">P.S. i still have not figured out this teleportation thing.</span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01011243269323811393noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4344569328344178068.post-12914602582559640162013-10-24T09:46:00.004-07:002013-10-24T09:46:28.124-07:00Rethinking: friendship
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Growing up we form friendships based on geographical proximity and I
think necessity. There is no prejudice or malice, just the need for a play mate
close to home. These normally develop into long lasting friendships that span
time and distance. Well that’s true for most men. I am told the best friends in
a girl’s life change with each PMS episode but I may be wrong in this too.<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">We then grow this to friends based on a shared torture regime namely
school. So statements like we went to Kitante Primary school together used to
explain how people know each other and are friends. Back in the day there were
not that many schools and so you all went to the same hand full of school which
meant you were more likely to meet you neighborhood playmate there.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This change allowed you to have both your
home friends and school friendsi.e. those who were your friends only within the
confines of the school perimeter.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">This is further amplified when we move away to attend secondary school.
This is where we come into our own. As we grow we meet different people from
all over the country. We lose some old friends along the way and gain more
based on our ever changing worldview and values.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">This season makes for some awkward holidays when former childhood
friends meet and feel like strangers or one of your former primary school
friends keeps ducking you because he or she went to that weird school on the
further side of civilization. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Somewhere along this high school journey, some of us meet God. He
arrests and we swear undying devotion and allegiance to him. This causes a
further shift in our friendship landscape. It is here that I suspect things start
getting a little complicated.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">You see, all your non saved friends are labeled worldly and your told to
stay away, after all what does darkness have with light. This view point right
here is just a pile of bull crap although we do need to watch who we call our
close friends after all it’s easier to push a squatting man.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Now enter the young adult phase. I don’t know about you but phase seems
to have the chemical confusion of adolescence and the morose depression of
adulthood. Everything is changing and I mean everything. Suddenly they have
removed the safety and the world is rushing at you full speed and you have nowhere
to hide and no instructions to guide you through it all. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">This phase is rather potent for me. You see I was a loner most of my
life and actually happy with it. But I get saved and there is this change. I
discover my inner people skills and I get quite the friendlist. I was relieved
because deep down their friendship validated me. I was terrified of being alone
or lonely. So I visited, kept in touch and hungered after these friendships.
This was all done under the umbrella of ministry and don’t get me wrong it was
all genuine most of the time. In fact these salient fears came up years later
when as happens with life things begun to change again.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Everyone I know goes to one university and I alone go to another. I have
to face my aloneness and loneliness. Luckily I was a proud chap determined not
to let anything get me down. So I soldiered on but in the dark silent load
shedded nights of Mukono I stood face to face with my fears and they won again
and again.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Throughout campus I portray one thing during the day while at night I
was transformed into something totally different like a wear wolf under a full
moon. It’s at this time that I start noticing my low times last way to long. My
grades slip and my faith takes a dip. For some reason not even my dogged
determination helps me. What’s worse all the things I used to do to get me up
and going, the prayer and bible reading and fellowship just becomes bland. My
soul was thirsty for a water I could not describe. I knew what I did not want
but did not know what what I needed looked or tasted like.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Fast forward to now. I different version of the same battle and this
time I just explode, covertly of course. First person we “stopped” being
friends with was because I called them fat. Many months later I was unfriended
in real life for reasons even now I still don’t understand. Others I avoided
because they just exacerbated me more and left me acerbated. My mouth seemed to
lead the way and the slights of my tongue were mightier than my apologies.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">And so I gave up on friendships that seemed to much work. I opened
myself to the possibility that people I had known for years and had shared
important aspects of my physical and spiritual growth together would no longer
be that important in my life and me in theirs. I realized that, hey, I can make
new friends and so I let my fair people skills guide me. If I met someone and
something about then grabbed me I struck up a conversation and then let it all
to God, if it was to be we would link up.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I gave up strife and effort but I did not abandon civility and courteous
behavior. I dialed down immensely. But still I lose friends and still my mouth
is the culprit.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">So this is what I have decided. I am an honest, opinionated, tactless
man cursed with pride and the hard headedness of a buffalo.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My head , my heart and my mouth do not always
coordinate and sadly my means do not allow me to demonstrate my love and
concern. This means that one moment I shall be super nice and sensitive and the
next moment as callous as a sailor in a whore house. Its not always intentional
nor is it even obvious sometimes. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Like I pointed out, I am a little bit worn out so if I pull at these
friendship strings and feel no pull from the other side, I don’t sever the
rope, I tie it down somewhere for when I feel a tag from the other side. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Because I am a bull in a china shop, I expect things will break but I
believe that as adults we can and we should look beyond some of these slights
and if we cannot to be open, end the relationship. I am not one for pretense. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Oh yes, I have had a looong year and sometime I don’t want to talk to
you or see you or pour my heart out to you and sometimes when I want to do all
these things I don’t want you to open your mouth and spew some nice Christian jargon,
I just want you to shut up and partner with me in hating. You can send you
rebuke by text later. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Or sometimes I just want to swear and be mean to someone. You may be
that someone. And know that sometimes my rave and rant has nothing to do with
you. Good thing I always give fair warning…I think. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">To me friendship fills that void left by family and God. Ti should be
that one place where we can be honest and mean without taking everything to
heart. It should be that combination, at this point in our lives of childhood
friendship, I just need a playmate and you shall do as well as that of primary,
we have been through shit together and that of high school we identify with
something bigger than each other and that of adulthood…measured and tampered by
experience and love and God.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I don’t know if I have been a good friend but I have tried. Right now
the strong indomitable Andrew Is worn out and tired and just needs a break. If
I call you be fine. If I don’t, be fine. If you call and I sound bored be fine.
If I am weirdly excited be fine…I may have imbibed some happy meds. I probably
want to spend a bigger amount of time alone and not with you. Be fine. Oh and
when I come seeking you out it may be selfish…be warned…be fine. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">This sun shall set and when the dust is settled from this epic
rethinking of friendship, its it those left around with whom we shall skip hand
in hand into the sunset leaving rainbows in our wake….or not. I am still re
thinking all of this friendship stuff.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/null" name="_GoBack"></a><span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01011243269323811393noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4344569328344178068.post-10664127643089058322013-10-20T14:58:00.001-07:002013-10-20T14:58:17.973-07:00The Girl with the Blank Stare in her eyes.<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
(unfinished pieces)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">There she sat, in her long blue dress, hunched
up knees to chin with her arms wrapped round her legs. She swayed softly as if
moved by a gentle breeze. The sun was shining but she seemed cold. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">Her choclately skin seemed pale, almost grey
and she stared listlessly at the ground. The sun was out, slightly toasty but
she seemed unaware of it. Everything around her was bright and green drawn in palettes
of colour and she and only she was drawn in shades of grey. She cast an aura of shades of grey. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">But not all was grey. Here and there you could
see colour. Her finger tips were a delicate pink. Here hair band was a
brilliant blue and her lips held just a hint of colour, evidence that life
still coursed through them. Her eyes
lashes were long and black thick as an African mush. The tips of her hair, natural and curly
fluttered ever so slightly when the wind picked up slightly. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">I walked to her gently, my brown suit drinking
in the sun. I had a few minutes to spare and thought I walk through city square
would do me good, after all it was the only place between my current stops that
gave me a chance to sit and rest. Hers was the only bench with room. I had
stopped when I had seen her.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">Everybody seemed to avoid her as if she cast a
spell that kept them away. Or perhaps they did not see her. They obviously did
not seem to notice her at all, or the space on her bench. I guess not one was
brave enough. I shivered thinking of the chill she most probably exuded. But I
was drawn to her, that and my feet hurt.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01011243269323811393noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4344569328344178068.post-76306545284776240822013-10-20T14:55:00.000-07:002013-10-20T14:58:54.808-07:00Re Thinking it all.<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">I stop and see the confusion of the world and wonder…is the confusion of the church a better substitute.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">In the last months as I have battled depression, failure and all manner of personal demons I have heard to think hard about some of the moments that have defined my past year.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">I have had to rethink politics. Will all my friends shouting and campaigning under the Black Monday Movements actually cause change? Is it a passion filled tirade with about as much future as the white rhino and the life span of a fly? What are my views about politics anyway? I have had to answer these questions and still refine those answers.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">I have had to rethink church. Right now there seem to be several factions split between the traditional churches and here we have all those Anglican protestant and other traditional denominations. There is the “born again” faction characterized by wild gesticulations and noisy overnight services. Then there is what I call the alternative style churches. There are mostly new and tech savvy for the most part. This is where you find the bohemian crowd and the others who found their traditional churches too…well traditional and the born again churches I guess too noisy. Please note I said church and not faith.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">I have had to rethink dreams. Anyone who has followed this blog or read any of my pieces on Facebook has come across the <a href="http://piecesoflighte.blogspot.com/2013/05/chasing-your-dreams-part-i.html" target="_blank">Chasing your dreams series</a> . I have had to rethink this whole concept. I have accepted that time is a greater ally and the straightest path is not always straight and that sometimes I need to stop and camp a whiles on this journey. I have learned that when you smile, make sure you fangs show but like a gentle she wolf, never bare them in anger, malice or hate. Just let them know you have them as well and yours Is a choice not to use them…unless they provoke you.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">I have rethought money and poverty. These two seem to be the yin and yang of my existence. Money is not what I work for but it’s a just recompense for the expenditure of my talent. The journey out of poverty is not that easy. Stop reading get rich quick scheme books, work hard, save as much as you can, give as much as you can and be content. The last bit is playing me.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">I have rethought friendship. This is the one year that most of my friendships seem to have imploded or just gone into some sort of coma. I will not lie, I am not all torn up about all of them. In fact these days are am not as quick to save friendships. I believe they should develop organically and just go where they may of course with a little trimming and such here and there. I am not trying to grow a bonsai tree but a radiant flourishing bush or tree. I do my part or what I can cause at the end of the day no amount of water or manure makes trees or bushes grow faster…perhaps a little better.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US">I am still rethinking…perhaps soon we shall share deeper exactly what I have been thinking on some of these topics.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01011243269323811393noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4344569328344178068.post-50197084203287367792013-08-15T02:37:00.002-07:002013-08-15T02:37:40.932-07:00This marriage thing....<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
I have never feverishly desired marriage nor have I admired married men
except for when I am lonely and horny or both.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
There is however one couple that constantly revives my faith in this
institution and I don’t know why.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
For better or worse, no pun intended, I am at that age in my life where
marriage hangs over my head like a nimbus cloud, pregnant and heavy, full with
the promise of good things but also promise of disruption.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
The major champions for this endeavor in my life are my uncles and a few
well-meaning friends. I am normally honest with them. Sadly my answers to their
query seem to hide a past hurt or a cynicism that seems misplaced in the heart
of a God fearing youth clinging onto scriptures like Jeremiah 29:11. But that
is far from the case.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
A relationship, ‘oba’ love, is a two lane road of emotion and logic. I
seem firmly embedded on the logic side of the lane. You see nothing that has
been promised me from the time I started listening to teachings about marriage
seems limited to marriage. It either seems like a lot of work or just too fairy
tale.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Of course those who are married make it look like they have ascended
through a portal into a realm of good things that only those that have partaken
of it can express or understand. This is well and good, but the other side of
the coin seems true. The world is full of couples, born again I might add, that
seem to be existing in limbo. Like when they were making the jump into that
portal Umeme load-shedded and they ended up in some other twisted ‘horrorverse’.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
I feel, rightly or wrongly, that all the ‘marketeers’ need to change
their strategy. I don’t need to be married to have sex and enjoy it. Contrary
to popular belief not all acts of fornication are immediately followed by
catastrophic or cataclysmic planetary collapse and blinding or numbing guilt.
The many Christians having sex can attest to that.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
I definitely don’t need to be married to have babies. All the single
mothers and fathers can also attest to that.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
I don’t need a wife to wash my clothes; my washing machine is doing just
fine. Yes my house may be covered in a layer of dust most times however when I
do get around to cleaning it is a good job…sort of. I don’t need her to cook, I
have lived on my own since my second year at university, I can manage a proper
sensible meal for over ten people and I am not just talking about one source
and one food.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Companionship, conversation and most other things can be got from
without marriage. So what exactly is the validation for getting married
especially when the statistics say being born again apparently has very little
to do with your divorce quotient, sex is freely offered and pregnancy out of
wedlock is not “that bad” any more, the number of domestically inept bachelors
has gone down considerably and ladies believe that men are ravenous, cheating
canines with the men claiming that women are nine tailed green eyed vixens.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Don’t get me wrong I want to get married, I want to have kids but at the
moment, I see no good reason to.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
But, this couple I speak of seems to have landed on the answer. They
have not told me, they have not taught me, they have shown me. When I look at
them, it’s like I have caught a glimpse far beyond the reaches of all the
married people I have observed or talked to, it’s like for a brief moment, a
brief instant I gazed into something more beautiful than the stars and as
endless and mysterious as the galaxies in the heavens.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
They may not have been married that long but for now they are my
sextant, my rule, my campus…my north star on this thing called marriage. They
renew my faith in marriage.<o:p></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01011243269323811393noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4344569328344178068.post-1216510952123626532013-06-12T02:57:00.003-07:002013-06-12T02:57:36.947-07:00Chasing your dreams: The space in between.<span style="text-align: justify;">As you may have noticed I have not written for this series in a while.
The spaces</span><span style="text-align: justify;"> </span><span lang="EN-GB" style="text-align: justify;">in-between</span><span style="text-align: justify;"> inspiration to write is filled with the everyday voracious survival</span><span style="text-align: justify;">
</span><span lang="EN-GB" style="text-align: justify;">tasks</span><span style="text-align: justify;">.</span><br /><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
And so like a<span lang="EN-GB"> soul</span> survivor in a treacherous land I am reminded of the spaces in between.
The spaces between the inception of the dream and the fulfillment of that dream
are <span lang="EN-GB">sometimes</span> many and sometimes long but we must survive them. The spaces in between
are also the times between revelation of different aspects of the dream like a
much needed encouragement/confirmation, the appearance of a divine connection
or the sudden realization of what is needed for your next future move. <span lang="EN-GB">The space in between are many and in between (no pun intended)</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-GB"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
The spaces in between are where most of us spend our lives. They are
those pleasant<span lang="EN-GB"> platues</span> filled with the sweet fragrance of everyday living that slowly lull us
into a cycle of wants and needs. There are like the mirage in the sun scorched
desert, a hope that our parched throats will soon be sated. They are ever
present but always far. And so we keep walking.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Like the mists of an English bog, they cover the<span lang="EN-GB">
pitfalls</span> and paths, obscuring our
way forward and our way back and so we wonder aimlessly constantly aware of the
danger that<span lang="EN-GB"> lurks</span> in the<span lang="EN-GB"> murky</span> depths.<o:p></o:p></div>
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And so we walk hunched over, watching the ground in constant fear of
falling into poverty, our dreams lost to sight and our consternation growing
and growing and our journey seemingly endless. For a person of faith, it’s not
the brutal onslaught of the Devils blows but the subtle espionage of a weary
soul that will get you.<o:p></o:p></div>
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I have to constantly remind myself what this dream is, what it is for
and why it was given to me. I also have to remind myself of the one who gave me
this dream and the promises He gave and continues to give.<o:p></o:p></div>
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I must also prepare. I love the story of the building of the temple.
David had a dream to <span lang="EN-GB">build</span> a house for God but Solomon was the one
appointed to build it. But David prepared. He was not allowed to build it but
he saw nothing wrong in preparing for it. In Isaiah, we are encouraged to
“enlarge the place of your tents”; Elijah was sent to prepare the way for the
messiah. The reference goes on and on.<o:p></o:p></div>
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And so I prepare, my heart, my mind, my spirit, my hands and my
substance (home/house, equip <span lang="EN-GB">etc.</span>) for the time when the dream comes to
fruition. In my case I have seen the dream unfold like a parchment, and for
each page, each chapter I must be ready.<o:p></o:p></div>
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So my dear friend, as we seek out the dreams God has placed in our
hearts, use wisely the spaces in between. <o:p></o:p></div>
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