Day Two

Part of the problem with church. Majority have forgotten the Lordship of Jesus. We want to follow Jesus and keep our Jumbo Buffet of a life. That doesn't work.

Bob Briner said don't present a problem without presenting a solution

The solution

Bring Back the Following words that have become out of fashion: Holiness, Sanctification, City on a Hill, In the World but not of the World, Living Sacrifice, Law, Do the Right thing. And Be Like Jesus.

Teachers need to teach that Jesus wants to transform us. Students need to listen and begin the transformation process. Lent is a good time for this. I"m far from holy, perfect, sanctified. But I want to be. I want people to look at me and wonder how what why I'm better than I should be.

This is for God's Glory not mine. My definition of sanctification the other day was. God taking something in your life and turning it into something good for God.

Therefore, with minds that are alert and fully sober, set your hope on the grace to be brought to you when Jesus Christ is revealed at his coming. As obedient children, do not conform to the evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance. But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: “Be holy, because I am holy.”

1 Peter 1:13-16

In other thoughts I have a hecka caffeine headache.

Day One

Yesterday became Day one of Lent. Ash Wednesday. The day for me although working was devoted to prayer, and thinking about sacrifice.

You are the mighty one

Elohim

I'm going to try and blog more as we go.

to be frank: a message about Frank and Albert

Ok world here we go. This is my opinion about "Don't ask don't tell"

If Frank and Albert want to join the military and kill people than they should be able to.  Is it worse them being gay in the military or killing innocent people?

 

The Military has killed innocent people under the "cost of war" countless times.  There is nothing smart about a bomb. 

 

Therefore it is my logic that a "moral" code of not allowing open homosexuals in the military (an immoral organization) is that you can not morally regulate the immoral.  I've never been in the military, I generally think the military is wrong.

 

What I do care about is this.  I have a friend who is gay, he has lived with his partner for many years. If we are supposed to love everyone we should not discriminate against those because of who they choose to love.   Who said that? Jesus.  

 

I'd rather be friends with an honest gay man than a backstabbing christian. And honestly I've met a lot more Pharisees in 2010 than evil gay people.

 

 

what if i stumble when the building crumbles

What if i stumble when the building crumbles, when the road calls up yonder I'll be there.

Psalm 13. Is the unsure verse. Its for the weak, or as Brennan manning used to say the ragamuffins. I appreciate the humanity of it. Its for those of us who do not have everything together. If you know me, you know I don't have everything together. Later times are better. but most of my Christian walk I have said over and over

How long must I wrestle with my thoughts
and day after day have sorrow in my heart?
How long will my enemy triumph over me?

David was unsure. I am unsure. One line David says "how long o lord will you forget me?" How can God's king, a man after God's own heart, the chosen one for the promised people, feel that the Lord has forgotten him? People, especially those who have seen or heard from God seem to have a stronger longing for the lord. We know what is there but our sin, and humanity separates us from God. Our self wants for the lord.

When things look the bleakest. The refrain is set.

I will sing the LORD’s praise,
for he has been good to me.

Its not a sin to ask Where are you God, or what am I doing. I think God wants us to do that. But he also wants us to have faith in the greater cause. The ending. The fact that God is there for us. and he has been good to us.

trust in your unfailing love". It shows that we don't have to have it all together and be perfect in our faith. If stuff is falling apart, Let it crumble, and when its in ruins, Rebuild. It takes a building to be demolished to be rebuilt.

I heart popcorn
JasonM

The message of the Lords Prayer pt 3

You're in charge!

You can do anything you want!
You're ablaze in beauty!
Yes. Yes. Yes.

The Message

For thine is the kingdom,

and the power,

and the glory,

for ever. Amen.

KJV

The conclusion of the Lords prayer is an acknowledgement of the Authority of God. Jesus did not have to proclaim the authority of God. He never said I am in charge. He said God is in charge. The greatest commandment is to Love others. All else falls under Love. A definition of ablaze is brightly illuminated. Everything about God is good. Yes. Its like Jesus is saying Agree! Agree! Agree! Amen is a word of agreement. Next time somebody says or does something good say Amen.

One definition of the word Amen is So be it. I think the most important thing about this prayer is that right before it was spoken Jesus said God knows what you need before you ask him. Prayer is a conversation. It is possible the people who heard this had never prayed before. Their God was not personable. They were afraid to even say his name. Jesus shows us we have a God who is in reach for ever Amen.

No time to Wait

 How long O Lord?

Will you forget me forever?

How long must I wrestle with my thoughts?

Give light to my eyes or I will sleep in Death

But I will trust in your love.  My heart rejoices in your salvation.

     From Psalm 13

 

I like the word "Now" a lot more than the words "Not Yet".   My wife, and I have been waiting for something that seems out of reach.  To have a child.  As the time of waiting comes closer to a conclusion we will either had a really good answer or the answer that we do not desire.   I do feel like this time of waiting has brought H and Me to a stronger faith in the lord.   It has also helped me become more of a spiritual leader.  Waiting causes you to lean on the Lord.   His clock has it on rhythm.  I do feel like King David. Give me light or I will die / I will trust in your love. One side of the heart says I cannot take it anymore and the other side says I will praise your name O God. Some would have ran away by now. Trust me the old me sometimes wants to run into the woods and never return. God does not want me to be a cave dweller. My life is to be in the world, not hiding from the world. Some would have given up by now. H's desire has increased mine. Quitting is not an option.  H has wanted this for a very long time. Its less of a want and more like a longing. It's as if her being is in part until she has this. The closer it gets the more I want it. So we do not run away, we press on and will finish well. The glory of the lord will be revealed through this. Faith is trusting the "Not Yet" and knowing that God has a "Now" in his plan.

 

The Message of the Lords Prayer pt 2

Keep is Alive with 3 Square meals

Keep us forgiven with you and forgiving ourselves

Keep us safe from ourselves and the Devil.

 

 

Most of us love to go out to eat. Food is a pleasure and a basic need. Not all have this luxury.   925 million people in the world do not have enough to eat.  This is more than the U.S. population.  65% of the worlds hungry live in 7 countries:   India, China, Congo, Bangladesh, Indonesia, Pakistan, and Ethiopia.  1 in 4 Children in developing countries are underweight. 

This section of the prayer is asking God to provide for us. God is here to provide for our most basic needs.

Which is worse? Murder or Outbursts of Anger? Galatians 5:19 says that both of these are works of the flesh and those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. All of us have sinned. We need God's forgiveness.

We are are own worst enemy. The only person who can keep you from God is You.

There are 2 things to know about the devil. 1. God is in control of the devil. 2. His power is allowed.

The more influence you give him the more he has. Personally I'd rather not waste my time on the devil. I have more important things to think about.

The message of Lords Prayer 1.

Last week marked the start of Christmas Play Practice. Heather is the director. Its called Nativity Idol. The New devotion series is based on the 3 parts of the Lords Prayer from The Message Bible.

2 Inspirations for this are 1. Derek webb's new record feedback, 2 The Lords Prayer by Shane and Shane on their work Everything is different.


The Lords Prayer – The Message
Our Father in heaven
Reveal who you are.
Set the world right;
Do what's best— as above, so below.


Our is the most important word in this Verse. Jesus came to bring us a Living God. Not a Golden cow Our God is reachable. Jesus asked God to reveal him to us. We are funy, Creative, smart, cool creatures. God is the same. When we look at ourselves we see images of God. There are many problems in the world today. Jesus came to become God to us. God wants the world to be right. Jesus came to bring Heaven to earth.

The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel.. (which means “God with us”)

We live in a divided land.

We live in a divided land.

In 2010 I can not see how there are still racists in the world today. You would think the church would be different. Spencer used to say Sunday 11am is the most segregated hour in America. So this is my story and why I am not racist.

I don't remember many times where my parents showed me negative actions towards those of other races. One time in elementary school I got in trouble for saying something racist. Ended up getting in a tussle over it. I remember my mom's disappointment in me after hearing what I said. My grandfather fraught to bring integration to south Georgia in the 50's. My my other grandparents housed boarders. So I have a family history of being accepting of others. But also the cone forefathers in Bulloch owned slaves. I had others in my line fight for the Confederacy.

During high school I was basically paranoid of other races. I was worried what they would do or say. I didn't really have any non white friends. At my 1^st school there were very few non whites there. It was pretty segregated.

FLAC helped me find a heart for people. It helped me take the idea of respecting everybody everybody, and grow it to love people. I also changed when I came to Statesboro. I met my my Turkish friends Y and K. They thought me that Muslims in America are generally very smart and friendly. I enjoy today talking to immigrants and people from other countries.

I who was one of the biggest influences in my life as a christian was of mixed race. I think a lot of people are racist because they lack exposure. Going to spirit and truth church was the 1^st time I felt love from a black person because we were both brothers in Christ. Every time D gave me a hug I felt like he was going to squeeze me to death. We were an odd pair. He was tall, and big. I was short. But we have great conversations. I do think he was placed in my life to Show me something. Which he did. There was L. He helped me see that being "Illegal" didn't really matter He was a Mexican who's parents came here for a better life. There have been more recently. C, M and J.

When it comes down to it. There are good people and bad people. In 2010 I don't have time to not see the best in somebody because they are different. This is an old story even in the church we are segregated

Moses married an Ethiopian woman.

Numbers 12:1

And Miriam and Aaron spake against Moses because of the Ethiopian woman whom he had married.

How I became less racist

Help people who are different because they are human beings

Find people who you connect with who are different and break bread with them. You learn more about somebody when you eat with them

Don't let the cycle of racism continue. Try not to talk bad about people or generalize about races

Love people because God loved you.

Breaking the Rurals

Transforming Church in Rural America

By Shannon O’Dell
Published by New Leaf

Shannon O'dell went from a mainstream modern church to a rural church in Arkansas. This books follows his journey from his decision making process to the way he brought this new church to a multi campus international congregation. This book was a very good inspiration. It shared a lot about his journey. It also presented a lot of tangible things we can use to improve the Church.

The chapters flowed easily. It was easy to read. I really liked the part about how we are supposed to get rid of our golden idols. Shannon's method is unique. His foundation is biblical. He gave a lot of ministry tips and resources. If you are looking for a book to give you some ideas for your church, or a book to encourage you as a leader than this is it. I would also recommend this for any pastor. I liked his v.a.l.u.e. ideas.

Vision, Attitude, Leadership, Understanding, and Excellence.

His best quote, which goes throughout the book is that small big does not mean great. Weather we are small or large. God wants us to be excellent.

This book was both theologically challenging and entertaining.

This books inspired me to be a better leader. I would recommend it.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze.com http://BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Welcome Latvia

Somebody visited me from Latvia. Welcome!

Fair yesterday
Heather birthday tomorrow
Revival and homecoming this week

Busy week

The trees raise their limbs to praise the most high God

PC & PJ Visionaries

I have been to a lot of churches. Simply Put. Preached to, at, around, and ignored. I've been put to sleep, encouraged, made so mad I walked out, deceived, and taught a lot of valuable lessons. The only constant factor in my church journey is me.

I've had 2 pastors. (shepherds).

Both of these are Visionaries. I met Both Pastor Chris - Family Life Church and Pastor Johnson- Spirit and Truth Worship Center because of friends. Evangelism is most effective when you bring somebody to church with you. I was there for a season, and now I am in a new place. My faith has a stronger foundation because of their vision.

So what does it take to be a visionary pastor?  Where do I go from here.

Love your congregation.

Be there for them. If they resist, require scheduled meetings for all servant leaders. Have times avail for counseling. Do stuff with your church outside of Church.  Each of my visionaries made time for me and had leaders around them who did the same.  Each of my pastors let their ministers minister to others. They both put the rule down and were in charge but also allowed those under them to lead.

A Visionary is an out of the box person

When I met Pastor Chris at Family Life, I wasn't sure what to think. FLAC had more TV's in their church than I had in my house. He exemplified the phrase be Odd For God.

They worshiped in downtown Brunswick, this was before downtown was as cool as it now, it was half empty in those days. They were in an old store. They had a blue bus, they went to the housing projects weekly, and had a multi-ethnic soul saving congregation. Normal Churches do not love people. They love their status. FLAC / Spirit and Truth love people because the visionaries lead them to.

 

Welcome to the Family was their mantra. We had addicts, mental health patients, poor people, rich people.   We had people who knew Jesus well and those were were not even introduced to him yet.

Pastor Paul started Radicals in Christ bible study on the Georgia southern campus. Then they transformed to spirit and truth worship center. Pastor Paul's Vision of God was an endless God. We had people get cars, houses, jobs. Lives were transformed, God was revealed as being much much bigger than we thought.  He led everyday joes into becoming disciples. He led us into believing that we served a transforming God who could take anything and make it grand.

A Visionary knows where they are going

Ask PC or PJ, where are you going in your ministry. I am confident that they would give many many answers. A visionary pastor observes everything he can. He lets people lead, helps the wandering believers, and looks for new people to join the fold.

 

Where do I go from here.

It is my turn to set forth vision. Me and Heather have about 10 youth every Wednesday.  Thats the good part.  We have had basically the same numbers for 3 years. We need a fresh vision on where to take it. We are part of a church that lacks a strong vision. My friend Doug who is a pastor said. I need to support my Pastor. Pastor Jim has been there for almost 3 years. I am a church member, deacon, so until the lord calls me somewhere else or home he is my guy. All I can do is take what I've learned and use it. As we used to say "You Caan Doo It"

Shannon O'Dell said to find something I can do for for Pastor Jim and do it for him. Basically Serve the leader.

I was was willing to do anything for Pastor Chis or Pastor Johnson. If I am a believer I need to believe that God wants me to have the same attitude with pastor Jim.

When young Jews were schooled they hoped to be under the authority of a Rabbi. That was one of their greatest desires. But as time went by you either continued under the rabbi by his choice, or went home to work. Only the select few were chosen to be taught directly by the rabbi.

 

Jesus wasn't. He went home to work. Neither were the disciples. They wanted a Rabbi. When Jesus started his ministry his followers called him Rabbi. So, he was both devine, and as a rabbi in their eyes he was also the authority of God to them. Pastor Jim was either appointed by God or our church is a lie. Those are the 2 options. Wise men decided he was the right minister for us. Men who I respect. So If I deny the authority of Pastor Jim I am also denying the authority of God. The more obedient I am to God the more obedient I will be to the Visionary in my life today.

Pastor Jim visited the hospital during Heather's Surgery last month: A visionary loves their congregation

Visionaries inspire Followers to come closer to God. The Vision is Emanuel. God With Us!

 

E-mail test one

Email Blog Test 1

 

Can you Hear Me Major Tom?

 

JMC

 

I would like to

Things I would like to do

Write a letter and mail it
Discover a new cemetery
Have twins
Get a minivan
Go to providence caynon
Eat some Turkish food
Find a cold fury
Finish every unfinished book I have started
Grow a beard like Zack galafinakis
Play croquet
Do the rooster dance while drinking Newcastle

JasonM

Wish i was with mary so I could jump in to the picture.

Trying this out

This is a mobile blog post let's see how it works

Rick and Bubba's Guide to

Rick and Bubba's Guide to the almost nearly perfect marriage. Is a collection of stories written buy Radio hosts Rick Burgess and Bill Bubba Bussey. It describes in a few easy going fashion different stories from their marriage. This book has some very funny moments and some very heart filled stories also.

I really liked this book. Its easy going. Informative, and its a good read for a husband or a wife. This is one of those books you can pick up at any time.

Its a very good read.

Rocking the french coffee this morning. Intense

5 Finger Gospel

I asked the Church youth the other day what is the gospel? Some said. God, the bible, Jesus. None really knew how to explain the gospel. We had to get to the answer together. So I was thinking about a way to teach the gospel. Take your hand, the index is 1 and the thumb is five.

Here is the gospel in 5

1. Creator God (points up). Creation proves the creator.
2. God and man were together but sin seperated man from God (2 together become 1 and 2 apart)
3. God Sent Jesus. The Super 3. Father, Son, and Spirit. God with us.
4. Jesus died 4 our sins and rose again
5. If we accept Jesus as Lord (leader) Savior we (points to himself) will live forever.

So thats my Gospel in five.

JMC

9-1-10

This morning I made smoothies for me and Heather. Love that Ninja.
Lilly is trying to get under the blanket, but not able to. Pionneer club tonight. Talking about Jesus as head of the church.

9-1-10

This morning I made smoothies for me and Heather. Gotta love that Ninja. Pionner club tonight. I pray the lord moves.

Wonder where the sleep has Gone

Bury me Beaneath the Pine Tree

It seems there is an endless drive in my mind and spirit to find the yet undiscovered cemetery. At the best I figure it comes from two places. I remember walking in the graveyard across from the church in Glenmora looking for old relatives. Whenever we we were there we also walked to the other cemetary to see pa pa and ma ma mac. One of the great things my grandfather Ed Cone did was find and old cemetery and improve it. Those two things plus a general curiosity have led me to find and seek out yet undiscovered cemeteries.

I wonder about the names that are there. Who were they? How did they die? I imagine about the families that lost young multiple children. Or the war veterans. I look for the soilders, mothers and fathers. I wonder about the unmarked graves.

If I had the choice I would like to be burried at the Old Jerusalem Church Cemetery in Bryan County. Its off the highway down a dirt road. It is a clear square surrounded by pine trees.

I know that the resting place is only a temporay piece of the puzzle. I like cemeteries. They don't reallly spook me or scare me. They are usually quiet serene places. The other day I discovered one of bullochs old ones. It was in the far reaches of the county. One day I hope people visit me when I am gone and know that I considered my plot a happy place not a sad place.

Bury me Beneath the Old Pine tree Lord
So I can hear the wind beneath my feet
Lead me to Jerusalem so I can walk the streets of God

JasonM

Mobile Testing 123
JasonM

hello

anybody out there

A new year

Passed into 31 Hello.

Powered by Ingram Digital

update readdy for the book blog

Testing 1 2 3

Hoping for a Don Miller Wish

hoping for a don miller wish

I signed up to review his book a thousand miles on this blog we will see

jasonm

Springtime carries on

and with springtime comes a new blog this one to explore what is outside my stoop.
enjoy.

Vote

Politics:
The Political Race for the president truely begins tonight with the Iowa Caucas.

So get engaged and Vote


In Kenya this week many have lost their life due to voting. And once again i Africa the tribal wars have begun to beat their drums in a land that has had much peace and success.

"With a booming economy and tourist trade, Kenya had been considered a bright spot in East Africa. But its Dec. 27 election, which was supposed to be the pride of African democracy, sparked a spiral of violence after candidate Raila Odinga and his supporters accused incumbent President Mwai Kibaki of rigging the results. (Time)"

On Jan. 1, a church in Kiambaa where Kikuyu had sought refuge was burned by an angry mob. At least 50 people, many of them women and children, died in the attack

http://www.npr.com
http://news.bbc.co.uk

Southern

I am southenrn but not a redneck. Country but not a Farmer.
I say yes mamn and Yall
I know how to skin a catfish and catch a bream
I'm Swampwise and a Simple Man
I'm boastfull and proud but not prideful
JM

What can be more Southern than to obsess about being Southern?"
--Elizabeth Fortson Arroyo

Being Rushed

Murphy seems to sit down in the way of my path when I am rushed. This morning I am not rushed. I am sliding into today nice and peacefully.

my motto should be slow and low

as the bahamian driver said we have 2 speeds slow and stop

have a good day
its worth it

JM

a redux

Redoing the Blog again:

Thought for the moment

If you blog it it will happen. Blappin

Ethopia

Ethiopian-backed troops are in "complete control" of Somalia's capital after fierce fighting, the PM says. (BBC News)

The 1st thing I remember about ethopia is the (84-85) Famine. I think most of us remember the images on tv. Of course for me I was a youngin so I saw it recapped. I'd say it is one of the events that led america to wake up to africa and the things that were going over there.

Ethopia

Ehopia BBC Profile

connection

In 1652, the first enslaved Africans in North America were brought from Sierra Leone to the Sea Islands off the coast of the Southern United States. During the 1700s there was a thriving trade bringing slaves from Sierra Leone to the plantations of South Carolina and Georgia, where their rice-farming skills made them particularly valuable

There is an ex rice plantation now that is a natural reserve appx 10 mins north of the house I was raised in in brunswick.

The Conflict is over (see you later)

The history: (via the cia)
Civil war between 91-2002. It resulted in tens of housands of deaths and the displacement of more than 2 million people. The last UN peacekeepers withdrew in December 2005, leaving full responsibility for security with domestic forces,




The facts:
Life Expectancy: male: 38 Female 42
Population Below the Poverty Line: 68%

The country has begun the task of reconstruction, reconciliation and consolidation of peace:

Main exports: Diamonds, rutile, cocoa, coffee, fish

The Peje West Coffee Farmers Co-operative (PWCFC) is a member owned and operated non-profit organization of local farmers who grow cash crops such as cocoa, rice, kola nuts, and coffee. After a decade long war in Sierra Leone, these farmers committed themselves to working together to rebuild their broken communities in an effort to collectively shape their own destiny.

As a result, these traditional farmers have organized themselves into a farmer's Cooperative. They should see their first real harvest in 2006, with the hope of exporting their produce to roasters abroad.

http://www.lionmountaincoffee.com/

my thoughts:

That said. After seing the movie trailer for Blood Diamonds I began to learn abotu LS. So what happens when the conflict is over. What do we do when places such as SL are moved to the back of the (hot) list. Will SL be forgotten? Or will they be given a chance to flourish. As far as their coffee to my best of knowledge there are no places that offer a SL Coffee. SL coffee has been hard to find information about. Its an arabica bean and is probably in some blends. I can't wait for one day to taste this rarity.

Whats in a name

Whats in a name?

Nike, Coca-Cola, Harrar, Sidamo, Yigarcheffe the last three are names of Ethopian Coffees. I consider the Ethopian coffee the best coffee in the world.

Ethiopian government launched a project to get legal ownership of its fine coffee names—Sidamo, Yirgacheffe, and Harar. By owning the names, Ethiopia will be able to occupy a stronger negotiating position with foreign buyers, capture a larger share of the market value associated with those names, and protect the reputations of its brand names.

Oxfam GBs a development, relief, and campaigning organisation that works with others to find lasting solutions to poverty and suffering around the world. says Starbucks is hurting Ethiopia's coffee farmers. The country hopes to make more money for its coffee farmers by trademarking the area's legendary coffee beans. Many in the U.S. coffee industry, including Starbucks, say the Ethiopian plan is naive and will hurt the farmers.

Starbucks denied being behind the blocking bid by the U.S. National Coffee Association (NCA) at the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). (MSNBC)

“We have heard from a number of sources that actually Starbucks was involved in alerting the U.S. coffee association to block these applications,” the charity’s Jo Leadbetter said.
It “stinks of corporate bullying” she told the BBC.


So there you go. Trademark your beans. I think its a good idea. And in case your curious about this wonderful coffee
Cafe campesino offers an Ethiopia Yirgacheffe Medium Fair Trade Organic coffee for sale.

I see this as a great way for the suppliers to get the buyers to meet them in the middle and provide more to the growers

A few Facts about Ethiopia

Life expectancy at birth:
male: 47.86 years
female: 50.24 years (2006 est.

HIV/AIDS - people living with HIV/AIDS: 1.5 million (2003 est.)

HIV/AIDS - deaths: 120,000 (2003 est.)

I want a story to tell

Go west young feller and tell me a story.
But Pa I don't have a story to tell
don't worry son, at the end of the age you will have stories to tell
times will come when you will be captivating
when the hills will listen to you

I seek a story to twinkle your ears
to lead you into a captivating discussion
when will my bones grow old and my thoughts become reflective
when will death beat at my door and my store be finished
not to soon now, my story is just beginning

Me and Grandaddy

Me and my Grandad at his house in Pavo, GA. I would say that He is one of my heros. His name is Ed Cone. Grandad had a stroke a few months ago but is recovering. This was before that. I just found this picture and wanted to share it.

Thoughts from Earl

Thougths from My Name is Earl:

Think local. Spend 5 mins a day doing something benifitial.

We can't fix everything but we can help fix something. There are a lot of problems in the world. But there are also a lot of people to help.

Simple Idea I know. But if we step outside the (me, myself, and I) ideas that rule our days and lend a hand, or a smile, or pick up a piece of trash, or put a cart in the rack, or hold a door, or pay for a neighbors groceries, or share a cup of coffee, or tell somebody Hello how are you doing and give them time to respond and give yourself time to listen a connection will be made and a change will come

Connections. We can become dis-connected easily. With our nets, and pods, and muzacks, and isntant world. When Jesus said love your neighbor, this some of what he ment. Allow yourself to be useful to help others. And I garantee you just as Earl your karma will return to you

Those who give receive

JM

Top Coffee Producers in (2003) / Issues

Brazil (Rainforest exploitation,unequal income distribution)

Columbia Hotzone Conflict: 4 Decades of Civil Conflict, Between various Right and Left wing Para groups, Poverty, Ally of Washington

Vietnam: communist state, produces cheap coffee to drive down market prices, (world trade issues), fare trade/wage issues.

Indonesia: Sunami Relief. Reconstruction in these areas may take up to a decade

India: nuclear weapons state, ongoing dispute with Pakistan over Kashmir, massive overpopulation, environmental degradation, extensive poverty, and ethnic and religious strife

Haiti

In 1715, the Jesuits started coffee cultivation in Haiti.

ECONOMIC SANCTIONS AGAINST HAITI (1991-1994)

Since 2004, the U.S. has disbursed $352 million in assistance. These funds have been provided
But still as in other places. Haiti remains the least-developed country in the Western Hemisphere and one of the poorest in the world.

archive of the Hatian Hotzone


http://www.haitian-bleu.com/

JL Hufford Haitian Bleu Fair Trade Coffee

Haitian Bleu® coffee is produced exclusively by over 25,000 small farmers, members of the FACN federation of local cooperatives and owners of the Haitian Bleu® brand name.

Using coffee to help people

I had this idea a while ago.

I'm deeply troubled by the things in uganda. Its probably top on my list. As far as conflict areas. The 1st time I heard about it, something just hit home. I wasn't sure what I could do. There are the organizations such as one.org or the others like that. But sometimes I wonder if the money gets to the people. So my idea came from coffee. I thought about ugandan coffee after looking to the map and seeing that uganda borders kenya. I've had keynyan coffee. its pretty good. So I wondered about ugandan coffee. Which I've never seen for sale or had. But I am a fan of single origin african coffees. here are some facts about it (most of what I did not know).

Robusta coffee is indigenous to the country, and has been a part of Ugandan life for centuries. The variety of Wild Robusta Coffee still growing today in Uganda's rain forests are thought to be some of the rarest examples of naturally occurring coffee trees anywhere in the world. Uganda has the unfortunate circumstance of being landlocked, and needing good relations with its neighbors to move its coffee crop to a port city. Coffees from politically unstable regions, especially East Africa and the 10-year civil war in Uganda, bring up ethical issues. But the plain fact is this: coffee is a cash crop. It is grown by 300,000 small-holder farmers in Uganda. It is 95% of the Ugandan exports and 2,800,000 people rely on it for a livingSo here is what I thought.

Many of us are coffee drinkers, and also care about uganda. So you could support the ugandan economy by buying coffee. Which would put money into the peoples hands and help their situation and also have some good tasting and feeling coffee. Its like the whole teach a man to fish. Free money is great but it want change things.

Anyway I found this company http://www.thanksgivingcoffee.com/ they have fair trade certified (important for coffee growers) organic (important for the earth) and they offer ugandan coffee called Mirembe Kawomera "Delicious Peace" Coffee.

Thanksgiving Coffee Co. donates $1 from the sale of every package to the Mirembe Kawomera Cooperative http://www.mirembekawomera.com/coop

So thats my idea. There are probably other fair trade ugandan coffee sellers (sweet marias sells bulk green beans) So hypothetically this could Connect caring people to areas that need our help and support their economy by buying their coffee at fair prices and educating ourselves about their problems and solutions.

I'm not sure where i'm going to go with this idea, (maybe an information type website) maybe give free ugandan coffee to coffee shops and explain to them what I'm doing. But thats that. I felt the need to pass this on.

Also Desmal had an art show about Oxaca Mexico and the termoil that is going on there, so I found a seller of oxacan coffee and passed it onto him there are other conflict areas that are coffee producers.

So this is my idea to use coffee to help people in need. I guess this also goes with a new movie that I just hearsd about http://www.blackgoldmovie.com It seems to speak of the global concerns associated with coffee.

The thoughts of old

There was a nice corner lot that I passed on my way to work. It had some pines on it but it looked like a great place to have a picnic. I never got to have that picnic. It now has been sold and the tractors are there clearing the pines. I can now see the store through that lot which I used to not be able to.

The ironic thing to me is that pines are not native to georgia. so somebody planted them there. Say 100 years ago. Now they are gone again.

At what cost will progess lead our town into a surburban bypass? Why must people build new stores instead of filling the empty ones? At what point will progress change the character of this place into another booring strip mall. Theese are hard questions. I'm part of the progress. My workplace used to be a forest. We have the spiders to proove it. The trees left the spiders stayed. One day this will be gone and the spiders will probably still be here.

seeing the lot cleared I guess put me in a thinking frame of mind. Or maybe i'm a tree-hugger. lol

also Geldof in Arica, a documentary was on tv last night. I cought some of the ned of it. If your interested in africa and the human condition its a great film. This guy has been trying to help that place for 20 years. So thanks bob.

Lets Start with the Name

lanier801. When I first moved to statesboro (years ago) I lived on Lanier Drive Apt 801 in College walk. It was a studio apartment, which was about the size of a bedroom. It also had a murphy bed. I had a tv with rabbit ears and internet, but that didn't work all the time.

monologues: I like movies a ton. So I enjoy a good monologue especially in the Kevin Smith fashion.

Coffee: Its one of my passions. There is something amazing about coffee. From the local shop and how it was the muse for things such as newspapers and elections. To the global economic trends of the mnc's and local fair trade farmers.

Art: I am an artist. I keep telling myself that and one day I will believe it. I enjoy photography and I'm learning as I go. I also have vocal training and used to play Baritone Horn.


Politics: What can you say. This is a crazy world you live in. You've got to stand up for what you believe. I like reading the paper and watching the Sunday news shows.

Love: I'm engaged to Heather. I love her deeply But also I love life. There was a time where things were not so good and I had a lot of depression. These days I try and enjoy life to the fullest. I have given myself the title of a gourmet. Its part of my love what you do attitude. My grandfathers nickname was happy. I think some of that has passed onto me.

Faith: This is probably the most confusing and interesting part of my life. I fall under the Christian dogma but Its more deeper and personal than any church could teach. I am part of a small church and I enjoy going. But basically I believe in something greater than myself and I think that it (God) has a purpose for my life. I also try and follow the bible as close as possible

So that's what I try and make this thing (blog) about

I looked over the mountain

and what did I see?

Just returned today from a few days in the hills of Cherokee NC. I took many images. 3 film worth. I wen't low tech this time with 2 disposable cameras and a double exposed lomolito that i'm going to get crossed processed.

It was fun to shoot from the hip. We will have to wait for the results. Hopefully sooner than far. There were lots of conversation time with my dad and uncle jim. Also a lot of good eats and good drinks. It made me realize how much I love conversations. But more than that how much I love listening. Thats something thats hard to do on the net (listen). So my challenge is to listen more each day. Type less and talk more. And also new film is on the way. So my challenge is to produce. And stop slacking. I want to create a Long Exposure nightime black and white series. . I have a tripod now so that will be easier to do. We will see what happens. Those thoughts are in the beginning stages.

Its nice to have a bit more muse thanks to the camp trip. I hope it lingers

Hope all of you are well

JM

A new book

"Cameras take Pictures Photographers Make Pictures"

Tom grimm

Thank you Camilla

Georgia ethanol plant may be running by 2008

Camilla-based First United Ethanol LLC (FUEL), a group of agri-businessmen from South Georgia is heading this operation

I remember in Middle school we learned that Corn can grow in every county in Georgia.

I heard a blurb on the radio about this. And then I found the article. This definately something we should support. So thank you Camill and (fuel)

JM

Pacifist

pac·i·fism

1. The belief that disputes between nations should and can be settled peacefully.
2. Opposition to war or violence as a means of resolving disputes.


Peace is not a 4 letter word.

Sweet Spot

The Sweet Spot:

The ligths are warm and kind
the sky seems extra blue
the green of the grass is popping

theese are the times when I want to grab my camera and go.

Usually this occurs in the morning or before dusk. Today seems like a sweet spot day as I sit in the office and think of my next photo journey

I think I can hear my Nikon calling me........

JM

I know I said that the blog was taken a back seat, and Now I've spent a few hours tweeking it again

I guess thats how it usually works

Have a great saturday

JM

Hollah

With so many web spaces to occupy the blog has taken a back seat

so much has been said
so many ideas have been presented

thanks for making it enjoyable

till we post again

JM

Weekend:

Nice times in Sav with H. A lil' art at the EAC, family time, worked out at the Gym. a Great time.

Me and H agreed, we are both pretty traditional and faithful in our beliefs, but we agreed that the government should not be pushing a gay Marriage amendment. Its a non issue and a not the role of government.

It will not pass and is a waste of time. and it is not the governments roll to decide what marriage is or isn't

JM

Hot Zone

There seme to be some many conflict areas these days. These are the stories that rarely get covered on the nightly news. Many of them involve the genocide of children. Something I desire to help with. The following website is dedicated covering every armed conflict around the world.

I think if more people knew what was going on they would be more apt to help.

What can we do? The estimated population of america is 300 million. An estimated 63 million votes were recieved for american idol. This shows we can be a huge united force.

If every person just chose to do something about one of these conflicts, I am certain they would be quick to be brought to peace.

http://hotzone.yahoo.com

Scheduled Conflict Coverage
Afghanistan
Cambodia
Chechnya
Colombia
Congo
Haiti
Iran
Iraq
Kashmir
Korean Peninsula
Lebanon
Mideast Conflict
Myanmar (Burma)
Nepal
The Philippines
Somalia
Sri Lanka
Sudan
Syria
Uganda
Vietnam

Hot Zone Watch List
Algeria
Angola
Burundi
Chad
Ivory Coast
Liberia
Nigeria
Peru
Thailand
Uzbekistan
Zimbabwe

The process becomes closer

I picked up the slides from my most recent work, one roll of 24 E-6 from the Nikon EM. They were developed, scanned, and mounted.

I did get to do a quick preview while on break. The hopes are high. I plan on submitting some to the EAC local exhibit. Its been a while since I've had some new images to work on.

I tried some backwards lens macro. These are the favorite of the set.

I'll post them to flickr/ here as the editing proceeds.

the process continues
peace

Thank you America

There is rarely an A/B answer to what America does or doesn't do.

But while researching a bit I found the following information about humanitary aid across the world.

So I do say thank you Amercia for your generosity

This came from The American Embassy in China Website ( an odd source) from march 2002

The United States is the world leader in humanitarian assistance and food aid, providing over $3 billion combined in 2000.

The United States leads the world in charitable donations to developing countries -- $4 billion in 2000.
In total, the Administration proposes spending over $16 billion in FY 2003 to combat HIV/AIDS around the globe.

Here is the hard question. Where is the money going. Is money the answer? Than why hasn't our funding alreaddy solved the problems of genocide, death and famine in places such as Darfur, or Northern Uganda.

OBv money isn't the answer. This has bothered me for years about africa. We are constantly donating money but still things are bad over there.

I'd say People there need tangible things

There is an organizaion called Blood Water Mission They have a goal of building 1000 clean water wells in africa. a good idea

We need more good (tangible) ideas and less blank checks

Quirkx

Walmart profit rose Q1 this year from last year

I like un-sweetened iced tea

A new roll of slide film was finished and taken to the Photo-Lab

A fence is not neighborly

Its cool outside

A Cold Fury would hit the spot right now

So when I went outside the other day my pepper plants had buds on them

It has been very meditative to watch the plants grow. So far we have 1 grape tomato plant which is about 4 feet tall one peminto pepper one tobasco and a few bananna peppers. Not sure what I'm going to do with all these peppers but I'll figure that out when they get here, maybe you will be recieving a gift of them in some pickeled, state in late summer

The house has been quiet for a few days since the roomates have left for the weekend, but that is coming to a close and the hollah will return.

The camera still sits on the desk, the photo-muse hasn't been very strong lately. But I think I will purchase a book called letting go of the camera
which should bring some interesting discussions about art.

These are the "salad days " the days where things run smoothly and peacfully

JM

Flickr

This is a test post from , a fancy photo sharing thing.

a crisp morning

a crisp cool morning

a cup of french press full city roast fair trade cafe campessino water drip decaf

awsome!

JM

FYI Gas Tax

The federal excise tax on gasoline has been 18.4 cents per gallon since 1993.

Estimates of the total current gasoline taxes (in cents per gallon) by state, including all federal, state, and local taxes, are as follows:

Georgia
31.1 (cents per gallon)
Most Expensive Tax
Hawaii 54.7 (cents per gallon)

The average price of a gallon of gasoline, exclusive of taxes, is about $1.45. This means that gas taxes as a percentage of the product price amount to about 29.5 percent

May 13, 2004
Laurence M. Vance [send him mail] is a freelance writer and an adjunct instructor in accounting and economics at Pensacola Junior College in Pensacola, FL. Visit his website.
Copyright © 2004 LewRockwell.com Laurence M. Vance Archives Back to LewRockwell.com Home Page

Since gas is higher now in 2006 the % is higher. Higher Gas price = More money for the government

So the next time the government says they care about the prices so they will lessen environmental standards (increase pollution) or stop saving for the federal reserve (saftey net) ask your representative why not lower the gas tax? (less money for them)

Of course if washington ever lowered a tax they would likely screw everything up from acting rational.


JM

I look to the mountain

M and H's family will be travelling to Pigeon Forge TN this weekend, The Roots are having a show in ATL and my parents are going to visit my sister in atlanta So A safe travel to all I pray

I had a poem going on this thing but the comp crashed here was the start of it. I think my poems are more like monologues anyway, or really just an arrangement of thoughts, here are some of the deepre thoughts I have had today


I need a muse, a cup of muse. A siren to call my name. A long slow walk in the dunes of cumberland. A journey comes as I look to the mountains what do I see?
Sand Gnats
Laughter
Marsh and Pines
The muse that calls my name.


The clouds looked as white puffs of smoke the other day. Now they are grey
May we walk in a labrynth one day

Do not let comfortability = apathy. Let I not forget the struggle as the career eases

Would Dylan exist without Ledbelly
Would I exist without Pierre?

Must we become so dis-conected with those who service us that we want to eliminate them
Is our blood not all red?
The trying times of the land call for action

Hope is aroud the corner, we must find it and take care of it

How Big

How many walmarts does it take to drive you nuts?

'Wal-Mart, based in Bentonville, Ark., already has plans to open between 335 and 370 new U.S. stores this year after 341 last year and has said it sees room for more than 1,500 additional stores in the United States in the coming years, on top of nearly 3,200 it already operates."

AP Business

There new move is into inner cities. Which I think is just plain crazy
http://wakeupwalmart.com/

Invisible Children

Sometimes you hear things that shock you that are happening in the world and didn't know about. This is one of those things. So I thought I should pass it on


NPR April 24, 2005 · In the long rebel war in Uganda, 20,000 children have been abducted. Boys are forced to join the resistance army; girls become sex slaves to the older soldiers.

Wiki entry for the LRA which is the Rebel Army who is leading the conflict

Uganda Conflict Action Network

Invisible Children A current movie, and mission campagain about this

in honor of the perk

In honor of the last bit of one of my coffee jars (I have 3 of them) I used the stovetop-percolator.

The Connection
Community Coffee from New Orleans city of my Birth
Perk from My Aun'ts Antique Shop in Glenmora LA my Dad's Hometown
Hand-made ceramic mug gathered by H and given to me

One of the reasons I love coffee is the way it brings simple connections either through origins, friends, or community into view and perspective

JM

Smashing In the Dark

Playing croquet in my backyard with overgrown grass, pine-cones, and at about 10pm at night to say the least was a blast

we had a fire and tiki's to light the path it still was extra difficult and most fun.

Thanks to H croquet has landed in the STA I bought the set she found the participators. We found a nice patch of grass around mill creek, a super fast course if I need to say so to play on. Even Got a hollah from the grounds keeper he shouted "croquet I haven't seen that in years".

So now I issue a challenge to the swainsbrethren from the statesfellers for a match. Maybe these 2 worlds will collide if so it will be a most excellent adventure

And don't you know its raining. Its Saturday of course. lol But yesterday was one of those days that make you want to Shout Thank you Lord, for living in South Georgia where we have the most ossum late winter early springs

hollah
JM

26

Over 83,000 people have been detained in the “war on terror.” Roughly 14,500 are currently in custody. Over two hundred have been detained for more than two years. One-hundred-eight have died in US custody as of March 2005. Twenty-six of these deaths are being investigated as criminal homicides. —AP report, November 2005

"We Do Not Torture"
President George W Bush November 2005

http://www.derekwebb.com/tour/extras/32

A cup of chai

Since I had 2 cups of Chai last night I thought I would include this wonderful knowledge that I have floating in my brain, thanks Mr Wiki for such a great encyclopedia

The next time you go into a coffee shop and want to spin their noodle just order a cup of chai instead of chai tea.


Chai
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia


General
The Chinese character for tea, 茶, is pronounced in Mandarin Chinese as "chá", and is the source of words for tea in many Eastern languages, hence "chai" in Central, South, and Southwest Asian languages as well as in Eastern and Central Europe and North and East Africa. "Chá" is also the word for tea in Portuguese. In the United States, many people refer to Indian tea as Chai tea, a redundancy (since chai means tea) resulting from the fact that the two words originally derive from two different spoken forms of Chinese. In India, prepared tea is sold in many varieties, the most famous being "masala chai" (मसाला चाय [masālā cay]), masala being the Hindi word for spice, and the spice mixture is sold as "chai masala." Chai is widely popular in India and Asia and even more popular than coffee is in North America, and is also a relatively popular beverage in coffeehouses in other countries.
[edit]

History
The origins of the chai masala recipe are obscure, but it is believed to have been created after the British began cultivating tea within colonial India during the 19th century CE to compensate for their inability to meet demand from Chinese exports.
[edit]

Preparation
There is no fixed recipe or preparation method for masala chai and many families in India have their own special versions of the tea. Due to the huge range of possible variations, chai can be considered a class of tea rather than a specific kind. But all chai has four basic components:
Tea: The base tea is usually a strong black tea, such as darjeeling, so that the various spices and sweeteners do not overpower it. However, a wide variety of teas can be and are used to make chai. Sometimes the drink can be prepared with tisanes such as rooibos.
Sweetener: Plain white sugar is sufficient, though unprocessed sugar, molasses, honey, and other sweeteners can be used for various flavors.
Milk or other such creamers.
Spices: cardamom, cinnamon, ginger, peppercorn, and cloves are some of the most common elements, though masala chai can be made with such varied ingredients as nutmeg, chocolate, cocoa or licorice.
Chai can be prepared in many ways. The most common way is to add milk, water, sugar and the spices and tea, bringing to a boil, and then proceeding to simmer it for a few minutes. It is then strained and served.

a change

A change Is Gonna Come - Sam Cooke

I was born by the river in a little tent
Oh and just like the river
I've been running ever since It's been a long, a long time coming
But I know a change gonna come, oh yes it will

It's been too hard living but I'm afraid to die
Cause I don't know what's up there beyond the sky
It's been a long, a long time coming
But I know a change gonna come, oh yes it will

I go to the movie and I go downtown somebody keep telling me don't hang around
It's been a long, a long time coming
But I know a change gonna come, oh yes it will

Then I go to my brother
And I say brother help me please
But he winds up knockin' me
Back down on my knees

Ohhhhhhhhh.....

There been times that I thought I couldn't last for long
But now I think I'm able to carry on
It's been a long, a long time coming
But I know a change gonna come, oh yes it will

The Job search is back to square one. I am looking for work again Movie Gallery is no more. The farewell is coming nigh to DK, you will be missed.

This one didn't make it in the show but I liked it anyway

and the scans are online here in case you didn't get to make it to statesboro

how could i forget....

so the radio deal on ysm hasn't been working so i've been listening to the launchcast webpage and today it happens to be 90's alternative station

and the song jeremy came on. that takes me back to my friends garage at the time, i'm not sure exactly what year it came out i definately could relate to that song. Even my uncle bought me 2 pear jam records back to back.

things i miss about the 90's
Mornings sitting on the back of the car in the parkinglot before school while smoking a kool and eating a donut with the people that were friends

mtv unplugged, vh1 playing music, my white tempo with red interior, really i don't miss that car too much it was a piece of schnizzle, band camp, it wasn't really a camp but it was a week long lol
the pier, shoneys, my 1st latte'

anyhow a bit of reminiscing for the good old 90's may they rest in peace

jm

So

So I went to a funeral today, it was for Uncle Gene. He wasn't really my uncle but that's what we called him. He was known by my roommate and me and some other statesboro friends through the pizza delivery business.

I was thinking earlier about charisma and how to have charisma. I feel as if for a while now knowledge has slowed. I do think that one way to have better charisma is to have more knowledge. But then again it comes to thinking about people with no education who have great charisma

We set up an office in my house, mainly for me and Joey my roommate. We are going to continue the delivery service that gene ran that Joey, Dave, and Brady worked for. I guess my roll will increase as time goes by. It is nice to have a non cluttered room. Maybe it will give me time to better find out what I want to do with my life.

anyway back to charisma. There are people in my mind that have an essence. These are those seasoned fellows that leave a mark when you meet them. I wonder if you can have these things without experiencing life. I do feel sometimes that I lack experience. I've never even left the southern states barely

I need to challenge myself. I just spent much time creating for the art show and it has left me hungry for knowledge. So I'm going to challenge myself to read more books, and return to a deeper thought pattern that seems to be less evident lately. Now I don't want you to think that things here are all boring. I have a great life a great woman, great friends, and family and many good things around me. But I would say that I want more

anyhow that's enough deepness for now

do me a favor and give somebody a hug today. I think if we hugged more and fought less the world would be a better place


JM

You're Bill Murray

A friend once said that Bill Murray was so great because he was the same "person/role" in every film

I just watched Broken Flowers a new Bill Murray movie, that idea about him remains true its Directed by Jim Jarmusch who has directed other interesting films such as coffee and ciggarettes, Ghost Dog, and Dead Man

anyhow its raining and I'm enjoying listening to it

hollah

so

So i realized DK wasn't 32 e main its 19 s main and I fixed the flyer and added it to the ozotoarchive.photoabulm.com abulm

i'm in brunswick this morning. I came home for the night b/c I wasn't able to see the folks much during the holidays and they are off from work.

I need a government job so I get more time off.....lol

new years resolutions:
I know its early but here they are in no particular order

Join some non for profit orgs i.e Emmanuel Arts, The Averitt, Ogechee River Keeper
Visit State and Regional Parks More often and buy a parking pass
Go Fishing
Take Pictures of People
Buy a Micro-Plane and a block of Parmesean Cheese

JM

a new toy

I just bought a new printer its an HP all in one psc 1510, I figured lower ink costs would be worth it, and its nice and grey and white

i printed a few pics they turned out pretty good.

so thats a relief


JM

things to do things to do

Gallery Show
as part of Statesboro’s First Friday

DK ARTS
32 East Main
Statesboro, GA

The photographic works of Jason McNicoll
Opening reception on Friday. 5pm-7pm

Many things to do till the show is ready

I did order some legion paper, and start on my artist statement. It should all come together. I'm sure I'll have to do some late night printing. Hopefully the mind will be clearer after this week of ho ho ho till you drop is over

So have a great christkwanhannafestivus to all of ya'll and don't drink too much eggnog if you do watch out for roaming grandma's and reindeer

hollah

jm

today w/ my community coffee

So as I sit and drink a cup of community coffee, it takes me back to louisana to MaMa's House. (my dad's mom). which was full of Family, Food, Fun and coffee.

I saw that it is offered in BiLo Grocery store which is pretty nice of them to do so. Since it wasn't available much places except louisana

The job is going, i'm having to have a bit of a re-adjustment time. But so far so good.

tis it for now
I need to create more
I have been reading more lately, and had more meditation time.

hey

I finished a roll of film the other day whoop

now to just get it developed and printed

The rain has been nice lately. Also the cold weather. I missed a notion that John Lennon died 25 years ago yesterday. I was also thinking that my generation and those after me do not really know lennon. We have his songs but I was thinking that The whom of who he was will be fading as time goes by, than 50 years from now some kid will find an old cd and play it and get hooked. and the cycle of music will continue

so thats that, its the weekend
have a great one
and don't shoot anybody

lol

JM

hi

hey ya'll

The new new news is that I recently got a job at Movie Gallery In Pooler. That is exciting
There some good opportunities with the company so hopefully it will work out well.

its the holiday season aggghhhhhh

I got H a coffee maker from the pembroke variety store for 10 bucks, Hollah. I made a nice cup the other day. And sat on the back steps and just listened for a while

It is important to listen, especially when there is so much noise going around us these days. When was the last time you sat and listened w/ out a tv,cell,radio, etc? The crazier it gets the more I realize how important meditation time is.

When I sit and listen for a a few moments it reminds me of who I am

also Aquinas Merlot (Napa Valley) is such a nice red. I got it from the Were Nuts Wine and Cheese store in Savannah it wasn't too expensive either. a website called it the following lol: Soft and supple, with inviting notes of chocolate, cherries, nutmeg and cedar. I don't know about all that. But there seems to be some great wines for under $15 these days and I'd call it one of them