Long after the love* between car-boyfriend and myself had dissolved into the oblivion where high school romances go to die, feelings between John and I had only continued to develop into deeper feelings of truest and purest love**.
Sometime towards the end of 2005, my friend Peter (who also was one of the members of the original cast of the katie tracy band) burned me a copy of John's Trio release "Try!" which was a bluesier, rockier project than John's previous work had been. It was a really strong contrast to basically everything on Heavier Things, with the exception of the tracks "Out of My Mind" and "Gravity," a mellow blues ballad, which went on to be re-released as a single on John's 2006 album, Continuum.
Continuum was the next major project of John's and was released in late 2006. I played this album pretty continuously in my '92 Honda Prelude for the majority of my late junior and senior year of high school (ironically, along with albums like Fall Out Boy's From Under the Cork Tree, The All-American Rejects Move Along, and anything by Blink 182 and Dashboard Confessional. For some reason, I reached this phase about 2 years after all my friends did). John brings his newly evolving blues style to this album as well, but keeps a lot of the pop sound from his earlier albums, which preserves a lot of the classic John we (I) know and love.
The best songs on this album, in my opinion, are "Dreaming with a Broken Heart" and "Slow Dancing in a Burning Room." Ironically, both tracks are descriptive of tragic break-ups, but in "Dreaming," John reminds us that he has not lost his ability to write lyrics that describe the very heart of the human condition (which is probably the thing I love about him as a musician, hands-down). "When you're dreaming with a broken heart, the waking up is the hardest part." This wistful song is enough to bring tears to the eyes of anyone who has felt loss in love and is so relieved to know that John has finally been able to voice the emotion that you could not find the words to describe. "Slow Dancing" is John's metaphor for his relationship falling apart at the seams, and his description of a love struggling to breathe is in perfect following with this same pattern of being able to capture human emotion--even when you know that you're doomed--still wanting your love to just suffer through "the storm before the calm." Mayer has had his share of failed relationships, but he is consistenly able to write music that proves he is not numb to these experiences--which is what we all really want to believe is true for us as well (because we aren't and it is).
Mayer released his Live album in July of 2008, which is lucky for me, because my birthday is in July, so I received this album (and the accompanying DVD (!) ) as birthday gifts promptly after their release. Mayer introduced two new acoustic singles on this album (which I think are comparable to my favorites of Mayer's early work), as well as acoustic versions of three previously recorded songs which were phenom. The new songs included a cover of Tom Petty's "Free Fallin'" which I believe (although I know I will receive staunch opposition to this stance) is better than the original. Whether this is because I am biased to the sound of John Mayer's music or because I am less accustomed to late-80s soft rock, I am not sure. It's just the way that I feel.
The other newly introduced acoustic song on this album is "In your Atmosphere," which has an intro guitar riff that will give any musician (or human) immediate goosebumps (there is no doubt in my mind that I played this song on repeat in my car with the volume up and the windows down for about a month and a half straight in the summer of 2008). This song also probably makes it at least into my top 10 of all-time JM songs, if not in the top 5. Absolutely brilliant, and with un-standard tuning, John further proves his absolute guitar prowress and leaves us with haunting memories of his riffs that no amateur could imitate but we die wanting more of. The rest of the album is performed either with the John Mayer Trio or with John's regular touring band, and with the exception of two previously unreleased covers, John plays familiar tunes. [anyone wanting to watch the DVD of this show with me at any time need only call and ask--it's really something to behold].
July 3rd, of 2008, just after John's release of "Where the Light Is" but right before I had it in my possession, I journeyed to St. Louis, MO to see John live for the first time. My sister, her boyfriend, my friend (and current roommate), her sister, her boyfriend, and her boyfriend's sister bought the tickets and made the trip. Not being especially financially endowed at the time, we bought lawn tickets, and were quite a ways from the main stage. Despite these sub-par seats, the outdoor concert at the ampitheater in the summer evening was one of the most surreal experiences of my life. It was unbelievable to be seeing live the man whose career I had been following for the last four years. Even in that moment, I knew I would go to the next show that I could--and would see the show from as close as I could get. (This sounds semi-stalkerish, but I promise it is instead more in fashion with the way you get to the football stadium four hours early to get seats in the front row---it just seems more real when you're up close and can read the expressions on their faces and the names on the backs of their jerseys. They stop seeming like TV characters and start feeling like people, which is all you really want them to be, anyway.)
Waiting from that day on to see an album or tour dates announced on the John Mayer site, my wish was finally granted this fall, when they announced his spring tour. With the upcoming release of his highly anticipated album Battle Studies (it had been 3 years since the release of his last studio album), I knew this was an opportunity I couldn't miss, and somehow convinced 18 friends (!) to buy tickets and share this experience with me.
When Battle Studies was finally released, the anticipation and my thoughts on his music that had built over the last years made me anxious to hear what John had finally produced. Was my recent financial investment in both the album and the pricey concert ticket worth the cost? Was this album the metaphorical " disappointing sequel" to the original excellent release? Was John able to continue to reach his fans in the way he had been able to when I first heard the chords to "Why Georgia" nearly five years ago?
I promise, I'll only write one more post about John Mayer (for now).
*some form of short-term teen infatuation
**actual love
Editor's Note: Happy New Year.
2009/12/31
2009/12/26
Battle Studies Review, Pt 2
The next chapter in this story involves my fifteen (and a half) year-old self, her current boyfriend, and the front seat of a parked car. While these sorts of memories are the type that seem most appropriate to suppress or ignore altogether, this particular one is of special import to you, dear readers, who are interested* to hear the ensuing details of the John-Mayer-discovery epic, which was begun in Part 1 of this series of installments.
You see, it was during these parked-car occasions that a budding love was developing that would forever change the horizon of my musical interests and endeavors. Fortunately for all parties involved (including you, readers, since this story would seriously digress into some sort of romantically comedic fiasco which I'm sure none of you have even the slightest interest in hearing), this love was not one arising between said boyfriend and myself. No, no, a more substantial, more lasting, and more meaningful involvement was growing through these many** meetings betwixt a certain suitor and I, who had been introduced only a short time before, but to which I became immediately attracted.
In order to further paint the scene surrounding the meeting of this lover and I, I must first familiarize you with this dear boy to which I was romantically "attached***" at that time. You see, as should have been a sign to my young self at the time, the boy was a musician. He played the guitar with such grace and confidence that at times I thought my heart would melt**** to hear the warm melodies he played. The tunes we loved he would play with such artistic interpretation as would rival the creators themselves, and while some of them he would sing (and I along with him), it was more often that he would simply play, while I, enchanted and completely mesmerized*****, listened intently. By this point you get the idea and to avoid further digression and possible nausea I will summarize by saying: He was good.
On one particular evening, he and I drove together to his (also musically inclined) friend's house with instruments in tow. Sitting around the living room, his friend began to play the intro to a song I had never heard. Boyfriend began to play along. Friend began to sing. "I am driving down 85 in the kind of morning that lasts all afternoon...."
I was hooked.
That is the moment in the room where it all began. I asked for and received "Room for Squares" for Christmas that year (within the month of this initial interaction), and "Heavier Things" became the soundtrack for the car-time adventures****** of Boyfriend and I. I knew that album backwards and forwards before I ever owned it, and the haunting themes from "Neon" and "My Stupid Mouth" from "Room for Squares" became more a part of me than I realized any music could be. I was listening to good music for the first time in my life, and had a insatiable hunger for any new, intriguing music I could get my hands on. John Mayer had single-handedly changed the way I thought about and experienced music.
It was love.
*mildly curious
**Somewhere between 1 and 1000
***in the words of my mother, we would have been described as "going steady"
****figuratively
*****I was fifteenish
******don't read too much into this
Editor's Note: Eventually, the author will get around to actually reviewing the album.
You see, it was during these parked-car occasions that a budding love was developing that would forever change the horizon of my musical interests and endeavors. Fortunately for all parties involved (including you, readers, since this story would seriously digress into some sort of romantically comedic fiasco which I'm sure none of you have even the slightest interest in hearing), this love was not one arising between said boyfriend and myself. No, no, a more substantial, more lasting, and more meaningful involvement was growing through these many** meetings betwixt a certain suitor and I, who had been introduced only a short time before, but to which I became immediately attracted.
In order to further paint the scene surrounding the meeting of this lover and I, I must first familiarize you with this dear boy to which I was romantically "attached***" at that time. You see, as should have been a sign to my young self at the time, the boy was a musician. He played the guitar with such grace and confidence that at times I thought my heart would melt**** to hear the warm melodies he played. The tunes we loved he would play with such artistic interpretation as would rival the creators themselves, and while some of them he would sing (and I along with him), it was more often that he would simply play, while I, enchanted and completely mesmerized*****, listened intently. By this point you get the idea and to avoid further digression and possible nausea I will summarize by saying: He was good.
On one particular evening, he and I drove together to his (also musically inclined) friend's house with instruments in tow. Sitting around the living room, his friend began to play the intro to a song I had never heard. Boyfriend began to play along. Friend began to sing. "I am driving down 85 in the kind of morning that lasts all afternoon...."
I was hooked.
That is the moment in the room where it all began. I asked for and received "Room for Squares" for Christmas that year (within the month of this initial interaction), and "Heavier Things" became the soundtrack for the car-time adventures****** of Boyfriend and I. I knew that album backwards and forwards before I ever owned it, and the haunting themes from "Neon" and "My Stupid Mouth" from "Room for Squares" became more a part of me than I realized any music could be. I was listening to good music for the first time in my life, and had a insatiable hunger for any new, intriguing music I could get my hands on. John Mayer had single-handedly changed the way I thought about and experienced music.
It was love.
*mildly curious
**Somewhere between 1 and 1000
***in the words of my mother, we would have been described as "going steady"
****figuratively
*****I was fifteenish
******don't read too much into this
Editor's Note: Eventually, the author will get around to actually reviewing the album.
2009/12/17
Battle Studies Review, Pt 1
For those of you who know me well, you are aware that I am a "musician," of sorts. In fact, I honestly cannot remember a time when music was not a large part of my life. My parents both used to sing to me when I was young, and as an aspiring singer myself (there is, in fact, video of Malisa and I circa age 5 singing and dancing to John Denver in my parents living room. Those of you who are interested can contact me later about viewing this piece of cultural history), frequent "concerts" for my parents and "friends" (both real and imaginary, as well as several dozen stuffed animals) were not uncommon to those who knew me during my childhood. When I was 4, my parents bought a beautiful Yamaha piano for the dining room in our South Tulsa home, and I promptly started weekly piano lessons which is what I like to call "The Beginning of an Era." Calling it an "Era" might be a bit of an exaggeration.
As the piano "era" (just get over it) continued on, I knew it was only a matter of time before I would become discontented with my current realm of musical prowess (because I was essentially dominating 'Mary had a Little Lamb'), and would begin the search for a new sphere of interest to enter into. While singing was something I enjoyed and was learning to do as well, in the 5th grade I finally centered in on what it had to be. I needed to have a guitar.
Seeing as I was eleven, I had no money or monetary assets to my name, whatsoever, to my knowledge, at that time. So I had to construct a scheme to convince my parents that this was a wise financial investment on their part. The bargaining began. Followed by begging. Followed by pleading. Followed by incessant offers at compromise ("I'll clean my room every day for the rest of my life. Twice even! As much as it takes!"). When these feeble, eleven-year-old attempts showed no promising signs of success, I finally gave up. (Whatever, I so didn't give up.) But in bringing the topic up less often, my parents finally came around. I got a guitar for my birthday that year.
I distinctly remember sitting on the floor in my bedroom at our house on 73rd, simply holding that beautiful Takamine guitar in my lap (Primarily because I had no idea what to do with it. Remember: I didn't know how to play the guitar). Luckily, one of my great friends at school, Rachel, did know how to play, and was graciously willing to help me get started. After two or three get-togethers with Rachel after school (in which she taught me chords G, A, D, and E and taught me two P&W songs that used these chords only), I was able to hobble along with my new-found skills on the instrument I now so dearly loved. The Era continues.
Thus began the many mornings of helping to lead worship in chapel at school (fortunately for me and unfortunately for all who had to listen to me, we had chapel three times a week, which gave me lots of practice and experience in a short amount of time), followed by helping with music on the summer mission trips, then in Youth Sunday School each week, and a myriad of other engagements as I got progressively more tolerable in my abilities. Surprisingly, as it seems there is often a surplus of moderately talented guitar players in any given social circle, there has always been a shortage in the groups I have been involved in, which has given me more opportunities to use this instrument than I would have imagined when I first began dreaming up the grand scheme to be the world's next Jaci Velazquez + guitar (I was home schooled). I guess I should have seen it as a sign. Oh, youth-self: how naive you were.
While other endeavors distracted me in high school (primarily, musical theater and a further interest in the vocal endeavors I had only slightly pursued to that point), I will never forget these first musical encounters. Were it not for my guitar-love I likely would not have dated the boy that I dated during my sophomore year of high school (a talented guitar player and musical connoisseur). And while that relationship was relatively unsuccessful (seeing as it ended), I have to give it a lot of credit, because ultimately, it changed my life. Because that boy introduced me to this song, and the musical love-of-my life, John Mayer.
Editor's Note: This post began with the intention of reviewing John Mayer's latest album, Battle Studies (as promised). Due to the enjoyment of writing the introduction to this piece, the author has opted to make this a multi-part series. Stay tuned for further installments.
As the piano "era" (just get over it) continued on, I knew it was only a matter of time before I would become discontented with my current realm of musical prowess (because I was essentially dominating 'Mary had a Little Lamb'), and would begin the search for a new sphere of interest to enter into. While singing was something I enjoyed and was learning to do as well, in the 5th grade I finally centered in on what it had to be. I needed to have a guitar.
Seeing as I was eleven, I had no money or monetary assets to my name, whatsoever, to my knowledge, at that time. So I had to construct a scheme to convince my parents that this was a wise financial investment on their part. The bargaining began. Followed by begging. Followed by pleading. Followed by incessant offers at compromise ("I'll clean my room every day for the rest of my life. Twice even! As much as it takes!"). When these feeble, eleven-year-old attempts showed no promising signs of success, I finally gave up. (Whatever, I so didn't give up.) But in bringing the topic up less often, my parents finally came around. I got a guitar for my birthday that year.
I distinctly remember sitting on the floor in my bedroom at our house on 73rd, simply holding that beautiful Takamine guitar in my lap (Primarily because I had no idea what to do with it. Remember: I didn't know how to play the guitar). Luckily, one of my great friends at school, Rachel, did know how to play, and was graciously willing to help me get started. After two or three get-togethers with Rachel after school (in which she taught me chords G, A, D, and E and taught me two P&W songs that used these chords only), I was able to hobble along with my new-found skills on the instrument I now so dearly loved. The Era continues.
Thus began the many mornings of helping to lead worship in chapel at school (fortunately for me and unfortunately for all who had to listen to me, we had chapel three times a week, which gave me lots of practice and experience in a short amount of time), followed by helping with music on the summer mission trips, then in Youth Sunday School each week, and a myriad of other engagements as I got progressively more tolerable in my abilities. Surprisingly, as it seems there is often a surplus of moderately talented guitar players in any given social circle, there has always been a shortage in the groups I have been involved in, which has given me more opportunities to use this instrument than I would have imagined when I first began dreaming up the grand scheme to be the world's next Jaci Velazquez + guitar (I was home schooled). I guess I should have seen it as a sign. Oh, youth-self: how naive you were.
While other endeavors distracted me in high school (primarily, musical theater and a further interest in the vocal endeavors I had only slightly pursued to that point), I will never forget these first musical encounters. Were it not for my guitar-love I likely would not have dated the boy that I dated during my sophomore year of high school (a talented guitar player and musical connoisseur). And while that relationship was relatively unsuccessful (seeing as it ended), I have to give it a lot of credit, because ultimately, it changed my life. Because that boy introduced me to this song, and the musical love-of-my life, John Mayer.
Editor's Note: This post began with the intention of reviewing John Mayer's latest album, Battle Studies (as promised). Due to the enjoyment of writing the introduction to this piece, the author has opted to make this a multi-part series. Stay tuned for further installments.
2009/12/12
Missed Opportunities
On Thursday afternoon, I seriously considered giving Cheryl Snoops a concert flyer for the band, on the off chance that they like me enough slash wouldn't have plans and would feel like coming to the show.
I didn't do it.
I didn't do it.
2009/12/10
J'ai Lu, Novembre 2009
Remember, remember the month of November (The 5th itself was never much memorable to me). The eleventh month of the year has come and gone, and we find ourselves in a state of surprise as the year we feel just began comes to a climax and a close. The holidays leave us in a "holidaze," but the rest from the norms of classroom learning and independent living are a kind of respite we forgot we had forgotten. I, for one, experienced a holiday at home unlike I have had in nearly five years: I did not work at Chick-fil-A on Black Friday. Having nearly four full days at my parent's country home did much for mind, spirit, and body, and has left me anxious to return for more of this solace. I finish this semester in 5 short days. The time flies when you're having what, now?
I took on a particularly challenging book to begin November, which is probably why I did not make it much beyond that. Malcom X left my mind spinning and, due to its depth and intensity, it was difficult for me to progress through its 400+ pages. Therefore, I took the easy way out afterwards, and read the first installment in Lemony Snicket's series. I assure you, I am in the midst of two separate books I attempted to meet this month's quota, so look forward to the December edition (and final?) for those enthralling (I'm sure) reviews.
The Autobiography of Malcolm X (as told to Alex Haley) -- My roommate Megan read this for a class this semester, and throughout our discussion, I became intrigued by it. This was a really difficult book to wade through, not only because of it’s length, but because (surprise) Malcolm X was a really intense person who led a really intense life. Essentially, it begins sad, ends sad, and is sad a lot in the middle. However, I think (more so since reading it than before reading) that this is a really important biography to be familiar with, and it explains Malcolm X and modern Black struggle in a way that is more rational than is often portrayed and in a way that I think is eye-opening and enlightening. (7)
A Series of Unfortunate Events (Snicket) – Believe it or not, I had never read this story before this month and year of my life. Apparently it is some sort of “classic,” and I found it entertaining, but not much more than that. I’m not really sure what category of literature it is generally placed in, but I think it honestly is a little too intense to be a children’s story. I think adults could appreciate its sarcasm and see it for what it is, but it really is a story with a non-happy ending and there’s some pretty disturbing events along the way. (5)
It is just occurred to me that I should review for you the latest in John Mayer's sure-to-be platinum collection, but I think I will save this for a later post.
I took on a particularly challenging book to begin November, which is probably why I did not make it much beyond that. Malcom X left my mind spinning and, due to its depth and intensity, it was difficult for me to progress through its 400+ pages. Therefore, I took the easy way out afterwards, and read the first installment in Lemony Snicket's series. I assure you, I am in the midst of two separate books I attempted to meet this month's quota, so look forward to the December edition (and final?) for those enthralling (I'm sure) reviews.
The Autobiography of Malcolm X (as told to Alex Haley) -- My roommate Megan read this for a class this semester, and throughout our discussion, I became intrigued by it. This was a really difficult book to wade through, not only because of it’s length, but because (surprise) Malcolm X was a really intense person who led a really intense life. Essentially, it begins sad, ends sad, and is sad a lot in the middle. However, I think (more so since reading it than before reading) that this is a really important biography to be familiar with, and it explains Malcolm X and modern Black struggle in a way that is more rational than is often portrayed and in a way that I think is eye-opening and enlightening. (7)A Series of Unfortunate Events (Snicket) – Believe it or not, I had never read this story before this month and year of my life. Apparently it is some sort of “classic,” and I found it entertaining, but not much more than that. I’m not really sure what category of literature it is generally placed in, but I think it honestly is a little too intense to be a children’s story. I think adults could appreciate its sarcasm and see it for what it is, but it really is a story with a non-happy ending and there’s some pretty disturbing events along the way. (5)It is just occurred to me that I should review for you the latest in John Mayer's sure-to-be platinum collection, but I think I will save this for a later post.
2009/11/22
America is Second
The pastor of my home church, Redeemer PCA in Tulsa, gave a sermon last week from the second chapter of 1st Peter. I highly recommend this for anyone with any political opinions of any kind, especially anyone who feels a tension between their Christian beliefs and their American "ideals".
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=111509143151
Ricky Jones, SERMON: 1 Peter 2:11-17
http://www.sermonaudio.com/sermoninfo.asp?SID=111509143151
Ricky Jones, SERMON: 1 Peter 2:11-17
2009/11/09
J'ai Lu, Octobre 2009
The calendar says it is November 9th. It feels outside like September. I am not complaining about the discrepancy. Reading on the hammock in the sunlight under the bright, fiery leaves on autumn trees, maybe drifting into a nap while the breeze gently rocks you to sleep; I wouldn't mind spending the month of November in this way.
Citizenship Papers (Berry) – A collection of essays on politics, citizenship, etc., recommended by and borrowed from Kyle. Wendall Berry has some really perceptive insights to share, and I really appreciated his thoughts on war/pacifism, capitalism/socialism, and other topics I’ve been wrestling with. I think Berry has an excellent grasp on the elements involved in these issues and he does a fantastic job of defending his positions. Thanks for the borrow, K. (8)
The Great Divorce (Lewis) – I haven’t read as much by Lewis as I wish that I had by this point, but this beautiful and powerful representation was enough to make me motivated to read more, and soon. Lewis’ descriptions of heaven and the entire heaven/hell divide are imaginative and thoughtful in a glorious way. I love hearing human conjecture on heaven and divine things and I think Lewis captures some ideas which continue to paint an image that we can only imagine and wonder on. If any of you have read this and particularly liked or disliked any things I would really love to hear your thoughts and impressions. (9)
The Unlikely Disciple (Roose) – This memoir is actually written by a student who was an intern of an author I recently blogged about as the author of a similar religious-immersion memoir, A.J. Jacobs of The Year of Living Biblically. Essentially, the premise is similar. An atheist student attends school for a semester at Liberty University, one of the most fundamentalist evangelical Christian schools in the nation. Honestly, I liked Roose’s writing better than his mentors’, and I think this book is a really interesting read, especially for anyone who has ever been in a similar environment of Christian fundamentalism. While the Evangelical fanaticism inspired by Jerry Falwell at Liberty is probably further to the extreme than you have experienced, I can link many of the issues and attitudes Roose mentions with events I have seen firsthand. Recommend for any Christians who have any interaction with other people (that’s…most of you..). (8)
Favorites:
How I met Your Mother, Season 4
Band of Horses
October trips to Tulsa, Dallas, and Wichita
November trips to St. Louis and Tulsa
John Mayer Winter/Spring Tour Dates
The Gray Owl opening
Looking forward to:
Not-a-Date
A Parents visit this weekend
RUF Sunday
Battles Studies release 11/17
Thanksgiving
Bedlam
Why oh why is Oklahoma so bad at football these days :/ I'm going to have to have a word with Rob...
Citizenship Papers (Berry) – A collection of essays on politics, citizenship, etc., recommended by and borrowed from Kyle. Wendall Berry has some really perceptive insights to share, and I really appreciated his thoughts on war/pacifism, capitalism/socialism, and other topics I’ve been wrestling with. I think Berry has an excellent grasp on the elements involved in these issues and he does a fantastic job of defending his positions. Thanks for the borrow, K. (8)
The Great Divorce (Lewis) – I haven’t read as much by Lewis as I wish that I had by this point, but this beautiful and powerful representation was enough to make me motivated to read more, and soon. Lewis’ descriptions of heaven and the entire heaven/hell divide are imaginative and thoughtful in a glorious way. I love hearing human conjecture on heaven and divine things and I think Lewis captures some ideas which continue to paint an image that we can only imagine and wonder on. If any of you have read this and particularly liked or disliked any things I would really love to hear your thoughts and impressions. (9)
The Unlikely Disciple (Roose) – This memoir is actually written by a student who was an intern of an author I recently blogged about as the author of a similar religious-immersion memoir, A.J. Jacobs of The Year of Living Biblically. Essentially, the premise is similar. An atheist student attends school for a semester at Liberty University, one of the most fundamentalist evangelical Christian schools in the nation. Honestly, I liked Roose’s writing better than his mentors’, and I think this book is a really interesting read, especially for anyone who has ever been in a similar environment of Christian fundamentalism. While the Evangelical fanaticism inspired by Jerry Falwell at Liberty is probably further to the extreme than you have experienced, I can link many of the issues and attitudes Roose mentions with events I have seen firsthand. Recommend for any Christians who have any interaction with other people (that’s…most of you..). (8)Favorites:
How I met Your Mother, Season 4
Band of Horses
October trips to Tulsa, Dallas, and Wichita
November trips to St. Louis and Tulsa
John Mayer Winter/Spring Tour Dates
The Gray Owl opening
Looking forward to:
Not-a-Date
A Parents visit this weekend
RUF Sunday
Battles Studies release 11/17
Thanksgiving
Bedlam
Why oh why is Oklahoma so bad at football these days :/ I'm going to have to have a word with Rob...
2009/11/03
Owl Gray
I am currently sitting on a sectional sofa at the back of a long room in a downtown storefront building. Indie Rock plays on the small speakers built into the exposed, stained rafters in the ceiling, where dramatic lighting casts shadows across the room and makes you feel as though you play a part in the art display behind you. The art, by the way, that unexpectedly portrays the same green villain involved in each of the farm or landscape scenes that line the east wall. Yes, you've got to see this to know what I mean.
The Gray Owl is simplistic. It is eclectic. The striking front door is a green gateway into a hipster's paradise, complete with retro used furniture and green OU chalkboard recycled for use as a menu list. It is the sort of place where time can pass without your knowledge, where you can sit, relax, and feel a sort of timelessness and freedom that is so often elusively out of reach. You breathe a sigh of relief knowing that this magical place will not soon sell-out to "the man" as other nearby venues have so disappointingly done (cough). With a cup of smooth, rich coffee in your hand, you can lean back in your consignment-furniture-store chair and thank goodness that you don't have to leave this marvelous place before the clock strikes midnight; and in this Cinderella-esque mindset you cross your glass-slippered feet on the handmade table in front of you, drink deep from your pumpkin latte and hum a bit of "A Dream is a wish your Heart Makes," knowing this very place is your dream come true.
The Gray Owl is simplistic. It is eclectic. The striking front door is a green gateway into a hipster's paradise, complete with retro used furniture and green OU chalkboard recycled for use as a menu list. It is the sort of place where time can pass without your knowledge, where you can sit, relax, and feel a sort of timelessness and freedom that is so often elusively out of reach. You breathe a sigh of relief knowing that this magical place will not soon sell-out to "the man" as other nearby venues have so disappointingly done (cough). With a cup of smooth, rich coffee in your hand, you can lean back in your consignment-furniture-store chair and thank goodness that you don't have to leave this marvelous place before the clock strikes midnight; and in this Cinderella-esque mindset you cross your glass-slippered feet on the handmade table in front of you, drink deep from your pumpkin latte and hum a bit of "A Dream is a wish your Heart Makes," knowing this very place is your dream come true.
2009/10/08
Based on a True Story, although the Names, Places, and Events may have been Changed
Some of you have heard that a couple weeks ago I had an opportunity fall into my lap that I took complete advantage of.
Someone called the office where I work and asked if I knew anyone who coached little league baseball. The person on the line was calling on behalf of someone I had never heard of, Rob Snoops, but since I just so happened to be a skilled former-MLB All-star player with a lot of experience and even some experience coaching, I offered myself as a possible coach for Rob's kids, who were needing some extra help getting ready for tryouts this spring (their father isn't very athletic). After talking to Rob's wife Cheryl several times, we set up a time for me to come out to their trailer once a week and help toss the ball around with their son, Zacky, and twin daughters Blake and Lilac.
Well, today I went for our first practice. All the kids have a little experience, but they have a little trouble remembering which base is which, what the pitcher does (which happens to affect them directly more than they realized), etc. Their trailer (or "mobile home," as Cheryl reminded me on several occasions) is out in this really kind of *trashy* part of Norman.. I'm sure it's kind of embarrassing for the kids, but as long as you stay upwind of the sewage plant you can almost imagine you're...in a nicer trailer park...
Anyway, it's obvious that Cheryl and Rob aren't that well off, because the place was pretty sparsely decorated. A little cross-stitched "Home is Where the Heart is" above the tinker-town piano was about all the "dining room" had to offer. I'm almost sure there may have been a fairly attractive oriental rug in the living room (which appears to have housed their goats for one winter), but you'd probably have to move the fast food wrappers and dirty laundry in order to see it.
All this to say, I have a new job, and even if I catch a mild case of Black Mold Poisoning, I think somehow, this is going to be worth it. Stay tuned.
Someone called the office where I work and asked if I knew anyone who coached little league baseball. The person on the line was calling on behalf of someone I had never heard of, Rob Snoops, but since I just so happened to be a skilled former-MLB All-star player with a lot of experience and even some experience coaching, I offered myself as a possible coach for Rob's kids, who were needing some extra help getting ready for tryouts this spring (their father isn't very athletic). After talking to Rob's wife Cheryl several times, we set up a time for me to come out to their trailer once a week and help toss the ball around with their son, Zacky, and twin daughters Blake and Lilac.
Well, today I went for our first practice. All the kids have a little experience, but they have a little trouble remembering which base is which, what the pitcher does (which happens to affect them directly more than they realized), etc. Their trailer (or "mobile home," as Cheryl reminded me on several occasions) is out in this really kind of *trashy* part of Norman.. I'm sure it's kind of embarrassing for the kids, but as long as you stay upwind of the sewage plant you can almost imagine you're...in a nicer trailer park...
Anyway, it's obvious that Cheryl and Rob aren't that well off, because the place was pretty sparsely decorated. A little cross-stitched "Home is Where the Heart is" above the tinker-town piano was about all the "dining room" had to offer. I'm almost sure there may have been a fairly attractive oriental rug in the living room (which appears to have housed their goats for one winter), but you'd probably have to move the fast food wrappers and dirty laundry in order to see it.
All this to say, I have a new job, and even if I catch a mild case of Black Mold Poisoning, I think somehow, this is going to be worth it. Stay tuned.
2009/10/06
J'ai Lu, Septembre 2009
The last two months, as I have mentioned, tended to lack in quantity what they certainly did not lack in quality. This month however, the two classifications reunite (!) as I have finally resumed my 4 a month quota, but at no lack of literary quality whatsoever.
However, I have found that I still don't read fast enough, and my "to read" pile of books gets taller and taller with each both I put back on the shelf...
I have no solution.
Same Kind of Different As Me (Hall) – The story of a wealthy couple and a former slave and what happens when their worlds collide. I found this story moving and powerful and relevant. I also found it slightly predictable. A recommendation from my roomie, definitely worth reading. (8)
Unaccustomed Earth (Lahiri) – This collection of short stories is a strange but beautiful walk through the pains and struggles of life. Lahiri is able to capture the essence of human struggle and make it something that we can relate to and completely empathize with. I can't wait to read more by this author. (8)
The Year of Living Biblically (Jacobs) – A modern day atheist tries to follow the letter-of-the-Old Testament law as an experiment in living as “literally” as possible. What begins as an author’s ploy to win readership while mocking his own ethnic roots develops into a really fascinating struggle between his cynicism and the pervasiveness of the truth that he wrestles with. This is good for some laughs and to brush up on your knowledge of the OT laws, if for nothing else. (7)
Becoming the Answer to Our Prayers (Claiborne & Hartgrove) – I’ve read a lot by Claiborne, and this short study on prayer falls right in line with his other works. The authors, two social and spiritual activists, seek to connect the power of prayer with the power of action. Claiborne challenges his readers to live a life of prayer which will in turn fuel a life of social engagement. If you’ve read anything else by Claiborne, you’ve heard a lot of this before, but if you haven’t, this is a good introduction to what he generally advocates. (6)
However, I have found that I still don't read fast enough, and my "to read" pile of books gets taller and taller with each both I put back on the shelf...
I have no solution.
Same Kind of Different As Me (Hall) – The story of a wealthy couple and a former slave and what happens when their worlds collide. I found this story moving and powerful and relevant. I also found it slightly predictable. A recommendation from my roomie, definitely worth reading. (8)
Unaccustomed Earth (Lahiri) – This collection of short stories is a strange but beautiful walk through the pains and struggles of life. Lahiri is able to capture the essence of human struggle and make it something that we can relate to and completely empathize with. I can't wait to read more by this author. (8)
The Year of Living Biblically (Jacobs) – A modern day atheist tries to follow the letter-of-the-Old Testament law as an experiment in living as “literally” as possible. What begins as an author’s ploy to win readership while mocking his own ethnic roots develops into a really fascinating struggle between his cynicism and the pervasiveness of the truth that he wrestles with. This is good for some laughs and to brush up on your knowledge of the OT laws, if for nothing else. (7)
Becoming the Answer to Our Prayers (Claiborne & Hartgrove) – I’ve read a lot by Claiborne, and this short study on prayer falls right in line with his other works. The authors, two social and spiritual activists, seek to connect the power of prayer with the power of action. Claiborne challenges his readers to live a life of prayer which will in turn fuel a life of social engagement. If you’ve read anything else by Claiborne, you’ve heard a lot of this before, but if you haven’t, this is a good introduction to what he generally advocates. (6)In music, this month's winners are:
Bon Iver
Fleet Foxes
(Rediscovering) Sufjan Stevens
Looking forward to:
OU/Texas Weekend Retreat in Dallas
The U2 Experience with H Brew
Ben Folds in Wichita
OU/Nebraska in Lincoln
The Swell Season in Dallas
Battle Studies Nov 17
Bon Iver
Fleet Foxes
(Rediscovering) Sufjan Stevens
Looking forward to:
OU/Texas Weekend Retreat in Dallas
The U2 Experience with H Brew
Ben Folds in Wichita
OU/Nebraska in Lincoln
The Swell Season in Dallas
Battle Studies Nov 17
2009/09/25
Home Alone Part 1
Tonight is the first night I will be staying in our 710 casa sans roommates #1, #2, and #3. 1 of 3 has left town. 2 of 3 are overnight babysitting.
I just arrived home after an evening of merriment, and am currently sitting in the center of the red couch, and blogging--not out of necessity, no--but out of sheer inability to choose what to do.
I mean...what could I not do?? The possibilities are endless! I could watch those movies I've been waiting for a chance to pop in, catch up on some online episodes of shows I enjoy, do some reading while the house is quiet, play loud music and sing and dance around the house, throw a raging party and invite everyone I know--I mean, come on! This takes some serious thought.
It's trying to decide which of these things is the best use of this short time where I have full reign of the place, for an entire overnight, that seems such a wonderfully daunting task. All of my options are delightful ones! Do I go to bed early? Wake up in the morning to watch the sunrise and go for a run? Sleep late because no one is here to judge? (Not to insinuate that my roommates are judgmental, for they are far from it) I mean, really, this is an absolutely overwhelming dilemma that probably needed several weeks' preparation in order to take full advantage of.
But instead, I'm sitting in the center of the red couch. There is a seat on either side of me, and a seat to my left in the brown chair. 1+1+1=3. 3=# of missing roommates.
I still don't know what I will decide.
I just arrived home after an evening of merriment, and am currently sitting in the center of the red couch, and blogging--not out of necessity, no--but out of sheer inability to choose what to do.
I mean...what could I not do?? The possibilities are endless! I could watch those movies I've been waiting for a chance to pop in, catch up on some online episodes of shows I enjoy, do some reading while the house is quiet, play loud music and sing and dance around the house, throw a raging party and invite everyone I know--I mean, come on! This takes some serious thought.
It's trying to decide which of these things is the best use of this short time where I have full reign of the place, for an entire overnight, that seems such a wonderfully daunting task. All of my options are delightful ones! Do I go to bed early? Wake up in the morning to watch the sunrise and go for a run? Sleep late because no one is here to judge? (Not to insinuate that my roommates are judgmental, for they are far from it) I mean, really, this is an absolutely overwhelming dilemma that probably needed several weeks' preparation in order to take full advantage of.
But instead, I'm sitting in the center of the red couch. There is a seat on either side of me, and a seat to my left in the brown chair. 1+1+1=3. 3=# of missing roommates.
I still don't know what I will decide.
2009/09/08
J'ai lu, Août 2009
Unfortunately for you, dear readers, August marked the second consecutive month where I read sub-par quantity of books, but above-par quality. I do believe that being back at my desk-sitting jobs will enable me to meet my quota for the following months (or so I hope). But for now, here is what it is:
Jesus for President (Claiborne) -- The author of The Irresistible Revolution (which has also appeared on this blog) writes again from a slightly different platform, but on similar issues and with a similar agenda (that being to light a fire under complacent Christians to get up and start living). Claiborne speaks through Ancient Israel and Egypt, the Roman Empire, the early Church, and both past and Modern America. He talks about the politics of each. And he talks about the politics of Jesus. Definitely something worthwhile if you have a feeling that the state has lured the church into a destructive love affair of sorts. I found it really helpful in trying to distinguish the politics of Jesus from the politics that have been preached at me--from both the White House and from the pulpit. (9)
You can borrow this if you want. We can talk about this if you want. I've got a list of books that explore this issue more, and I'll continue reading and exploring what life looks like when "my first allegiance is not to a flag, a country or a man."
Jesus for President (Claiborne) -- The author of The Irresistible Revolution (which has also appeared on this blog) writes again from a slightly different platform, but on similar issues and with a similar agenda (that being to light a fire under complacent Christians to get up and start living). Claiborne speaks through Ancient Israel and Egypt, the Roman Empire, the early Church, and both past and Modern America. He talks about the politics of each. And he talks about the politics of Jesus. Definitely something worthwhile if you have a feeling that the state has lured the church into a destructive love affair of sorts. I found it really helpful in trying to distinguish the politics of Jesus from the politics that have been preached at me--from both the White House and from the pulpit. (9)You can borrow this if you want. We can talk about this if you want. I've got a list of books that explore this issue more, and I'll continue reading and exploring what life looks like when "my first allegiance is not to a flag, a country or a man."
2009/09/02
J'ai Lu, Juillet 2009
My reading habits have begun to lack. But not in quality, simply in quantity.
In July, I read only one book. I read it in about 4 days. And then simply didn't hammer through another one for the rest of the month of July. I really, still, cannot conceive how this is possible, but this is just how it happened.
The Poisonwood Bible (Kingsolver) – A fictional novel about a family who are missionaries to The Congo. Written like journals from the perspectives of the mother and four daughters, Kingsolver effectively transports you to a different place and time, and leads you to connect with these women. This is not a happy ending. But I dare you to read it and find the Gospel in the unexpected places, not where it is expected. And that is what makes this book beautiful. (10)
Read this. You can borrow it from me. You may not like it. We can talk about it.
In July, I read only one book. I read it in about 4 days. And then simply didn't hammer through another one for the rest of the month of July. I really, still, cannot conceive how this is possible, but this is just how it happened.
The Poisonwood Bible (Kingsolver) – A fictional novel about a family who are missionaries to The Congo. Written like journals from the perspectives of the mother and four daughters, Kingsolver effectively transports you to a different place and time, and leads you to connect with these women. This is not a happy ending. But I dare you to read it and find the Gospel in the unexpected places, not where it is expected. And that is what makes this book beautiful. (10)Read this. You can borrow it from me. You may not like it. We can talk about it.
2009/08/31
September's Eve
Someone suggested to me yesterday that I should export my "things I am loving"s from facebook onto my blog and then monetize my blog, because my series of stati were so very popular that I could really turn it in to a money-making venture. I don't know if I want to sell-out like that or not.
This weekend was the best I've had in awhile. Saturday, I decided to take a Sabbath. I did not set my alarm, and simply slept until I woke up. This happened to be noon. I didn't shower, I stayed in my pajamas. I made myself breakfast of waffles and a fruit salad. I spent the afternoon Sabbathing. I rested, I watched a myriad of Alias episodes, talked with my roommates. I declined invitations to leave the house. My roommate and I painted canvases. We made some dinner, sometime around 10pm. And when I got tired, I went to sleep. I think it was exactly what I needed, and something I highly recommend.
Sunday was a day of delightful company. I attended University Fellowship Church with Lindsey and Daniel. Afterwards we went to lunch at Doug and Julie's. It was such a gorgeous day. It was a timeless day. I think heaven will be these things: front porches, musicians and instruments, summer breezes, conversation, no pressured schedules. Among other things. It was lovely. Followed by Christ the King. It was a day full of the Gospel. And it was great.
Tonight, Oh, the Adventure! The Intrigue! The ladies at 710 Pickard knew at the time of renting their house that the house contained a certain treasure. The mystery and enchantment surrounding the Cellar remained and developed throughout the summer, until finally, the suspense could not be handled any longer. This very evening, with the help of several interested friends, we descended below the Cellar Door. What we found was beyond our wildest imaginations! What stories the walls could tell if they spoke, no man could imagine.
You are invited to the next opening. There are such further adventures to be had, and such wonderment to be experienced--and you could be a part of it.
This weekend was the best I've had in awhile. Saturday, I decided to take a Sabbath. I did not set my alarm, and simply slept until I woke up. This happened to be noon. I didn't shower, I stayed in my pajamas. I made myself breakfast of waffles and a fruit salad. I spent the afternoon Sabbathing. I rested, I watched a myriad of Alias episodes, talked with my roommates. I declined invitations to leave the house. My roommate and I painted canvases. We made some dinner, sometime around 10pm. And when I got tired, I went to sleep. I think it was exactly what I needed, and something I highly recommend.
Sunday was a day of delightful company. I attended University Fellowship Church with Lindsey and Daniel. Afterwards we went to lunch at Doug and Julie's. It was such a gorgeous day. It was a timeless day. I think heaven will be these things: front porches, musicians and instruments, summer breezes, conversation, no pressured schedules. Among other things. It was lovely. Followed by Christ the King. It was a day full of the Gospel. And it was great.
Tonight, Oh, the Adventure! The Intrigue! The ladies at 710 Pickard knew at the time of renting their house that the house contained a certain treasure. The mystery and enchantment surrounding the Cellar remained and developed throughout the summer, until finally, the suspense could not be handled any longer. This very evening, with the help of several interested friends, we descended below the Cellar Door. What we found was beyond our wildest imaginations! What stories the walls could tell if they spoke, no man could imagine.
You are invited to the next opening. There are such further adventures to be had, and such wonderment to be experienced--and you could be a part of it.
2009/07/28
Smiles
One talent I have mastered is the ability to speak in a smiling voice without actually smiling. You wouldn't think this would be a very useful or necessary talent, but you would be wrong. And when you are tired and not very crazy about your job, which just so happens to require a nearly overexaggerated amount of enthusiasm (hence, excessive smiling and friendliness regardless of your mood), it can be an absolute lifesaver. Ask me to do it sometime, and you will be amazed.
2009/07/10
J'ai lu, Juin 2009
We have completed six months of this year, now that June has come to an end. I find that I am still trying to discover who Katie Tracy 2009 will turn out to be. Everyday seems to bring lessons I did not expect to encounter. But I am changing. I can feel it in myself—observable change is taking place. God, who is the Author and Perfecter, continues to develop my character throughout the story he has written me in to. The plot changes, and the journey continues.
I turn 20 this month. This holds less excitement for you, likely, because I am mostly the last to reach these milestones. People are always exceedingly surprised to hear I am still a teenager. I suppose that’s an okay thing.
The Ragamuffin Gospel (Manning) – A simple meditation on grace, but with some mind-blowing insights. I really loved Manning’s thoughts on the Gospel of grace that we allow to become too familiar and too often take for granted. A beautiful reminder. He also includes a section at the end of “19 Mercies” to practice and scripture to meditate on for each of these. I love practical application, and Brennan provided this throughout. (9)
unchristian (Kinnaman) – Kinnaman was commissioned to research the perceptions that “outsiders” (people not associated with the church/not born again Christians) have of Christianity and Christians. Kinnaman presents his 3 years of research in this book and takes time to focus on each of the top perceptions (the majority being negative) to give us (Christians) an idea of how we look to the world. The world is changing, and our generations are a whole different brand of people than our parents were. This book is a great way to see ourselves from the outside looking in, and be really thinking about whether we’re living as Christ did and truly being representatives of Christ to the world. (7)
Death by Love (Driscoll) – A series of letters Mark writes to various people he has come in contact with, complete with life summaries of each of them and Biblical application of the Gospel to each of their personal struggles. I really liked the idea of this, and I liked a lot of what Driscoll says to each of them. This is something I think is great for anyone interested in loving people who are broken, and trying to figure out what to say (that should be all of you). Driscoll can be a little (or a lot) “in your face” and doesn’t really sugar coat things, but for the most part, I appreciated the insights he gave and the overall concept of the book. (7)
The Gospel According to Starbucks (Sweet) – Sweet discusses how Starbucks has created an environment and a product that are appealing, warm, and welcoming. While he has some good things to say, his argument is essentially that the modern church has a lesson or two to learn from Starbucks. I was attracted by the title, but was disappointed that it wasn’t quite as tongue-in-cheek as I expected. Eh. (5)
I turn 20 this month. This holds less excitement for you, likely, because I am mostly the last to reach these milestones. People are always exceedingly surprised to hear I am still a teenager. I suppose that’s an okay thing.
The Ragamuffin Gospel (Manning) – A simple meditation on grace, but with some mind-blowing insights. I really loved Manning’s thoughts on the Gospel of grace that we allow to become too familiar and too often take for granted. A beautiful reminder. He also includes a section at the end of “19 Mercies” to practice and scripture to meditate on for each of these. I love practical application, and Brennan provided this throughout. (9)
unchristian (Kinnaman) – Kinnaman was commissioned to research the perceptions that “outsiders” (people not associated with the church/not born again Christians) have of Christianity and Christians. Kinnaman presents his 3 years of research in this book and takes time to focus on each of the top perceptions (the majority being negative) to give us (Christians) an idea of how we look to the world. The world is changing, and our generations are a whole different brand of people than our parents were. This book is a great way to see ourselves from the outside looking in, and be really thinking about whether we’re living as Christ did and truly being representatives of Christ to the world. (7)
Death by Love (Driscoll) – A series of letters Mark writes to various people he has come in contact with, complete with life summaries of each of them and Biblical application of the Gospel to each of their personal struggles. I really liked the idea of this, and I liked a lot of what Driscoll says to each of them. This is something I think is great for anyone interested in loving people who are broken, and trying to figure out what to say (that should be all of you). Driscoll can be a little (or a lot) “in your face” and doesn’t really sugar coat things, but for the most part, I appreciated the insights he gave and the overall concept of the book. (7)
The Gospel According to Starbucks (Sweet) – Sweet discusses how Starbucks has created an environment and a product that are appealing, warm, and welcoming. While he has some good things to say, his argument is essentially that the modern church has a lesson or two to learn from Starbucks. I was attracted by the title, but was disappointed that it wasn’t quite as tongue-in-cheek as I expected. Eh. (5)
2009/06/02
J'ai Lu, Mai 2009
I'm just getting past the wave of stress that was end-of-semester and finals, and am finally hitting the books. I really have nothing to excuse my lack of motivation this month, except I simply found other ways to fill my time. Ah, well.
The Four Loves (Lewis) – Lewis discussed four aspects of human love—Affection, Friendship, Eros, and Charity. I feel like he presented a lot of insights and reminded me how I do not love people well, how people deserve to be loved, and what love really looks like. I especially loved his chapter on Friendship, and also the chapter on Charity. If you love people or are loved by anyone (your mother counts), you should check this out at least once. I feel as though I will want to reference it as circumstances change throughout my life, and I seek to learn to love people in new and different ways. (7)
-------------------------------------------------------
And other thoughts...
I have worked at ChickfilA for five years now, on and off. I remember like yesterday my fourteen-year-old self interviewing and being hired, and starting my first few days. I remember learning how to be an employee, how to balance fun and productivity in the workplace. It's crazy how time flies.
The Chick-fil-A I have consistently worked at is located in the food court of Woodland Hills Mall in Tulsa. So naturally, after so many years being in the mall on a regular basis, I, of course, have been an avid observer of "mall people."
All I can say is, mall people are strange. I don't just mean the trench-coated, black lipstick-wearing, dog collar mall people who literally seem to spend 24 hours a day inside the mall trading Pokemon cards and talking Anime. I mean just about every single patron of the mall seems to transform the moment they step through those swinging glass doors. They stop being your neighbor, your teacher, your fellow church member. They forget who they are, that they are human, that other humans exist, and that you, in your red & black uniform behind the counter and register, are human as well. No rules apply.
What I mean by this is that I have never in my life been treated like more of a sub-human being than when I work at Chick-fil-A. With their agendas and their children on leashes, shoppers set their shopping bags on the counter and treat the person taking their order as if they are talking to a robot. Orders are barked, smiles are replaced by scowls, mistakes are unforgiven, extras and exceptions are demanded. It is nuts.
But the worst part of it is, you are helpless to counter any of this ruthless behavior. If you scowl and use as few words as possible to respond to them, you not only provoke them to more anger, but you are given a "talking to" by your boss who wants to make sure you are preserving the company image, or some (probably absolutely true and neccessary) nonsense. If you smile and act on your best behavior, you feel like an idiot and like even more of a suck-up.
Essentially, I get daily practice to turn the other cheek. So I suppose it's not a complete loss...
Has anyone else witnessed this phenomenon? Maybe in your line of work of some other experience? I'd love to know I'm not making this up.
Peace Like A River (Enger) – A novel about a boy’s childhood under atypical circumstances. It took me awhile to sit down and get through it, but the end was incredible and beautiful in a way I never expected, which really brought it home for me. Definitely recommended summer fiction. (8)
The Four Loves (Lewis) – Lewis discussed four aspects of human love—Affection, Friendship, Eros, and Charity. I feel like he presented a lot of insights and reminded me how I do not love people well, how people deserve to be loved, and what love really looks like. I especially loved his chapter on Friendship, and also the chapter on Charity. If you love people or are loved by anyone (your mother counts), you should check this out at least once. I feel as though I will want to reference it as circumstances change throughout my life, and I seek to learn to love people in new and different ways. (7)-------------------------------------------------------
And other thoughts...
I have worked at ChickfilA for five years now, on and off. I remember like yesterday my fourteen-year-old self interviewing and being hired, and starting my first few days. I remember learning how to be an employee, how to balance fun and productivity in the workplace. It's crazy how time flies.
The Chick-fil-A I have consistently worked at is located in the food court of Woodland Hills Mall in Tulsa. So naturally, after so many years being in the mall on a regular basis, I, of course, have been an avid observer of "mall people."
All I can say is, mall people are strange. I don't just mean the trench-coated, black lipstick-wearing, dog collar mall people who literally seem to spend 24 hours a day inside the mall trading Pokemon cards and talking Anime. I mean just about every single patron of the mall seems to transform the moment they step through those swinging glass doors. They stop being your neighbor, your teacher, your fellow church member. They forget who they are, that they are human, that other humans exist, and that you, in your red & black uniform behind the counter and register, are human as well. No rules apply.
What I mean by this is that I have never in my life been treated like more of a sub-human being than when I work at Chick-fil-A. With their agendas and their children on leashes, shoppers set their shopping bags on the counter and treat the person taking their order as if they are talking to a robot. Orders are barked, smiles are replaced by scowls, mistakes are unforgiven, extras and exceptions are demanded. It is nuts.
But the worst part of it is, you are helpless to counter any of this ruthless behavior. If you scowl and use as few words as possible to respond to them, you not only provoke them to more anger, but you are given a "talking to" by your boss who wants to make sure you are preserving the company image, or some (probably absolutely true and neccessary) nonsense. If you smile and act on your best behavior, you feel like an idiot and like even more of a suck-up.
Essentially, I get daily practice to turn the other cheek. So I suppose it's not a complete loss...
Has anyone else witnessed this phenomenon? Maybe in your line of work of some other experience? I'd love to know I'm not making this up.
2009/05/12
Things I will Not Miss About Living in the Dorms
While all Freshmen at OU are required to live in the campus dormitories their first year, many students choose to move into off-campus housing after completing this requirement. A small number choose to remain living in the dorms; a few become Resident Advisors in order to reap the benefits and fulfill a desire to leave a larger impact on incoming classes.
With the financial weight of my college education being nearly exclusively on my shoulders, I made the decision halfway through my Freshman year to enroll in the R.A. Training class in order to become "certified" to apply to be a Resident Advisor, and fulfill both of the aforementioned goals of this position. After taking the class, interviewing, and being offered a job, an application for a similar position at Sooner Housing Center (commonly known as "the athletic dorms") was accepted and I decided to take the job there.
So after two years of living in dorms, and having considerably different experiences both years, here is a list of things that were not the best about living in the dorms, and I will not be sad to leave behind.
12) Flights of stairs.
11) Paper thin walls which make it possible for EVERYTHING to be heard.
10) Food produced in bulk. Aka cafeteria food. 'Nuff said.
9) Fire drills. Also, fire alarms set off by overcooked popcorn, or (actual scenario) overcooked brownie.
8) Having to use a swipe card to swipe in.
7) Having to use a swipe card to swipe out.
6) Being locked in your building because you can't find your stupid swipe card you need to swipe out when you're already running late for class.
5) Fighting for parking spots in parking lots that are still considerably far away from your door.
4) Having a room so small that one item on the floor makes the whole room look like a disaster.
3) Being advised to lock your bedroom door because your hallmates might steal from you.
2) Showers with only two possible settings: a showerhead with no water pressure that is a comfortable temperature, or a showerhead with adequate water pressure that scalds you.
1) Wearing shoes in the shower.
Freshman year was a great experience. I loved my room, my roommate, my friends, the thrill of everything unknown about college life that I was getting able to discover.
But living in the dorms a second time has felt like being a freshman again, only lacking the things that made it great.
Living in a dorm room by yourself sounds like it could be fun, but it's amazing how you can live on a floor with 30 other girls and still "live" completely alone.
Yes, dormitories, you have been okay. I am pretty ready to bid you a not-so-tearful goodbye.
With the financial weight of my college education being nearly exclusively on my shoulders, I made the decision halfway through my Freshman year to enroll in the R.A. Training class in order to become "certified" to apply to be a Resident Advisor, and fulfill both of the aforementioned goals of this position. After taking the class, interviewing, and being offered a job, an application for a similar position at Sooner Housing Center (commonly known as "the athletic dorms") was accepted and I decided to take the job there.
So after two years of living in dorms, and having considerably different experiences both years, here is a list of things that were not the best about living in the dorms, and I will not be sad to leave behind.
12) Flights of stairs.
11) Paper thin walls which make it possible for EVERYTHING to be heard.
10) Food produced in bulk. Aka cafeteria food. 'Nuff said.
9) Fire drills. Also, fire alarms set off by overcooked popcorn, or (actual scenario) overcooked brownie.
8) Having to use a swipe card to swipe in.
7) Having to use a swipe card to swipe out.
6) Being locked in your building because you can't find your stupid swipe card you need to swipe out when you're already running late for class.
5) Fighting for parking spots in parking lots that are still considerably far away from your door.
4) Having a room so small that one item on the floor makes the whole room look like a disaster.
3) Being advised to lock your bedroom door because your hallmates might steal from you.
2) Showers with only two possible settings: a showerhead with no water pressure that is a comfortable temperature, or a showerhead with adequate water pressure that scalds you.
1) Wearing shoes in the shower.
Freshman year was a great experience. I loved my room, my roommate, my friends, the thrill of everything unknown about college life that I was getting able to discover.
But living in the dorms a second time has felt like being a freshman again, only lacking the things that made it great.
Living in a dorm room by yourself sounds like it could be fun, but it's amazing how you can live on a floor with 30 other girls and still "live" completely alone.
Yes, dormitories, you have been okay. I am pretty ready to bid you a not-so-tearful goodbye.
2009/05/09
Dread and Delight are Friends
Today is May the 9th.
We have only one week of school remaining.
For the last several weeks I have been anticipating the glorious moment when I will step out of my last final exam and breathe that welcome sigh of relief we are all so happily familiar with. My classes this semester have been sub par, and as far as course material is concerned, I've been fairly unimpressed, and am happy to move on to bigger and better things (famous last words...).
However, these feelings of blithe anticipation have been simultaneously tainted by a subtle sense of uncertainty and borderline dread. This dread has showed its ugly head in reminding me that in the next two weeks, the people I spend daily time with will be out of my life for nearly three months.
Last summer, I spent time in Tulsa. I was eager to return home after my first year at school in order to revive relationships from high school that had been neglected while I was away, and spend some time with my family and others in town whom I had missed. What I found was that my friends from high school were either spending the summer out of town or had made other friends or other plans and were no longer around. My friends from college were at various places, namely, Camp Wabanna and Norman, and my family had a life that existed independently of mine that they were all busy keeping up.
Last summer, I was exceedingly lonely about 90% of the time.
After spending a semester in pretty nearly daily fellowship and community with friends who love and support me so faithfully, I am feeling that a summer under similar circumstances as last year will be even more painfully lonesome. While I will have some friends in town (Justin, I have not forgotten you) I am not ignorant of the fact that many of my closest friends will be away, and that even Justin and I will have some trouble finding things to keep us entertained all summer.
So what do I do? Do I get two jobs and work 60 hours a week? Do I make an effort to make friends with people I know I will not be around in 3 months?
Just smile all the time--that's How to fight Loneliness.
So, as I take my exams, I am torn between my desire to be delighted to be finished with French and five hour classes, and the desire to slow down time so that things I love can stay as they are.
I have a lot to look forward to post-summer that is exciting to think about. I do not usually warm up to change immediately, but I know that I will adapt. And life will be fine. And God will still be God, and will still be good. My friends will still be my friends. Summer has the potential to teach me a lot.
My summer project is to make my blog posts shorter.
We have only one week of school remaining.
For the last several weeks I have been anticipating the glorious moment when I will step out of my last final exam and breathe that welcome sigh of relief we are all so happily familiar with. My classes this semester have been sub par, and as far as course material is concerned, I've been fairly unimpressed, and am happy to move on to bigger and better things (famous last words...).
However, these feelings of blithe anticipation have been simultaneously tainted by a subtle sense of uncertainty and borderline dread. This dread has showed its ugly head in reminding me that in the next two weeks, the people I spend daily time with will be out of my life for nearly three months.
Last summer, I spent time in Tulsa. I was eager to return home after my first year at school in order to revive relationships from high school that had been neglected while I was away, and spend some time with my family and others in town whom I had missed. What I found was that my friends from high school were either spending the summer out of town or had made other friends or other plans and were no longer around. My friends from college were at various places, namely, Camp Wabanna and Norman, and my family had a life that existed independently of mine that they were all busy keeping up.
Last summer, I was exceedingly lonely about 90% of the time.
After spending a semester in pretty nearly daily fellowship and community with friends who love and support me so faithfully, I am feeling that a summer under similar circumstances as last year will be even more painfully lonesome. While I will have some friends in town (Justin, I have not forgotten you) I am not ignorant of the fact that many of my closest friends will be away, and that even Justin and I will have some trouble finding things to keep us entertained all summer.
So what do I do? Do I get two jobs and work 60 hours a week? Do I make an effort to make friends with people I know I will not be around in 3 months?
Just smile all the time--that's How to fight Loneliness.
So, as I take my exams, I am torn between my desire to be delighted to be finished with French and five hour classes, and the desire to slow down time so that things I love can stay as they are.
I have a lot to look forward to post-summer that is exciting to think about. I do not usually warm up to change immediately, but I know that I will adapt. And life will be fine. And God will still be God, and will still be good. My friends will still be my friends. Summer has the potential to teach me a lot.
My summer project is to make my blog posts shorter.
2009/05/03
J'ai lu, Avril 2009
Well, it finally happened. My laziness got the best of me and I did not even get close to meeting my goal this month. However, I'm still feeling pretty confident in myself and have not begun questioning my identity, so I think we will survive this. I'll try to redeem myself by reading extra in May. We'll see if that happens.
**Side Note: I would like to say that I think a large portion of my April reading time was transferred into time spent with my friends (you know who you are). I am very comfortable with this trade off.**
The Glass Castle (Walls) – A memoir of the author’s childhood and her family’s interactions as they lived a life you can hardly believe is true. It is not an exaggeration to say they put the “fun” in dysfunctional. A truly unbelievable but powerful perspective on a lifestyle that will make you thankful for the normality you enjoy. (9)
Ultimate Punishment (Turow) – My criminal justice class encouraged us to read this. A lawyer takes an in-depth look into the death penalty controversy and especially the role it has played in the state of Illinois. He deals with the question, “Is the risk of sending an innocent man to his death worth the benefit of killing a guilty criminal?” Interesting and thought provoking. (7)
Concise Theology (Packer) – I know we studied this in Relish this semester together, but seeing as we finished it this month, it makes it on the April list. My opinion of Packer was positive, but I wish the book had been laid out differently. Packer goes surface level on a lot of different topics. I wish he had gone deeper on not as many topics. As it is, Packer gives you a taste of many different issues of Systematic Theology, and leaves it up to you to investigate those issues further. (6)
I've got some great stuff in my stack for this month, so start looking forward to May reviews.
Currently obsessed with: Gmail and Edith Piaf.
This month in music I like Sherree Chamberlain, some of the new Gavin Degraw album, and classic favorites like Patty Griffin, Damien Rice, and John Mayer.
The Katie Tracy Band saw a fancy lot of showtime this month. As a principal member is graduating, watch for the Band to be evolving in the next few months. Get your autographs now...
**Side Note: I would like to say that I think a large portion of my April reading time was transferred into time spent with my friends (you know who you are). I am very comfortable with this trade off.**
The Glass Castle (Walls) – A memoir of the author’s childhood and her family’s interactions as they lived a life you can hardly believe is true. It is not an exaggeration to say they put the “fun” in dysfunctional. A truly unbelievable but powerful perspective on a lifestyle that will make you thankful for the normality you enjoy. (9)
Ultimate Punishment (Turow) – My criminal justice class encouraged us to read this. A lawyer takes an in-depth look into the death penalty controversy and especially the role it has played in the state of Illinois. He deals with the question, “Is the risk of sending an innocent man to his death worth the benefit of killing a guilty criminal?” Interesting and thought provoking. (7)
Concise Theology (Packer) – I know we studied this in Relish this semester together, but seeing as we finished it this month, it makes it on the April list. My opinion of Packer was positive, but I wish the book had been laid out differently. Packer goes surface level on a lot of different topics. I wish he had gone deeper on not as many topics. As it is, Packer gives you a taste of many different issues of Systematic Theology, and leaves it up to you to investigate those issues further. (6)I've got some great stuff in my stack for this month, so start looking forward to May reviews.
Currently obsessed with: Gmail and Edith Piaf.
This month in music I like Sherree Chamberlain, some of the new Gavin Degraw album, and classic favorites like Patty Griffin, Damien Rice, and John Mayer.
The Katie Tracy Band saw a fancy lot of showtime this month. As a principal member is graduating, watch for the Band to be evolving in the next few months. Get your autographs now...
2009/04/30
A Void
I'm still loving things I am taught. Daily, I am taught. How fantastic.
Monday in my first class, my prof told us about an author. His fourth work is "La Disparition," and its translation is "A Void." A stunning fact about this book is that in his final copy, this author's writing did not contain his country's most common linguistic sign.
The letter "e."
Okay, so I wrote the above paragraph without using the letter "e," and that was the most difficult thing I've yet attempted on this blog. Georges Perec, French author of "La Disparition," wrote a 300-page novel without using the most common letter in the French language, the letter "e." This novel has now been translated by 8 different authors, and each translation has followed this same lipogrammatic constraint in each respective language. The English version does not contain the letter E. The Spanish version does not contain the letter "A," which is the most common letter in its language.
I think language is one of the most incredible art forms we experience. (See Rusco for more discussion on art forms, however). I do not begin to understand or be familiar with all the intricacies of language, but this struck me as a beautiful example of the creativity--the same creativity that is found in art and literature--being present in language. The author challenging himself to work outside the normal bounds of linguistics: Ahh.
I've been thinking lately about things I want. If I made a list this moment of the things I would probably purchase today if I had unlimited cash, it would include all of the following (and probably some other things):
An iPhone
An iPod Touch
Some other brand of Phone with unrestrained internet access
A new Macbook
A new guitar
Guitar effects Pedals
A grand piano
A Flat Screen TV
I would venture to say that I do not need any of these things. I currently possess machines that accomplish all of the tasks these additional items would be used for. I rarely even watch Television. In fact, about 95% of me is sure that this desire for a flat-screen would exclusively be to feed my college football addiction and is not related to regular scheduled television whatsoever. But still, anytime any of these things are mentioned, or I look at the scuffed surface of my two-year old Macbook, or I send a text message in class on my loud-buttoned cell phone, or I am too lazy to haul said Macbook around campus in my bag in order to have wireless internet at my fingertips, my mind lusts after these oh-so-useful items.
Now, lately, I have been slightly sickened by my own consumerism mentality. Also, I have been trying to figure out at what point the Biblical concept of "covetousness" begins, and the effectiveness of American marketing schemes ends. When society says "Buy, Buy, Buy!" and I want immediately to go and buy, is that me just listening to the stimuli that have been strategically placed in my everyday interactions, or am I beginning to be too much "in the world?" I do not want to make this a question of uber-conservativism or me being ruled by my own legalism, this is just something lately I've been fascinated by.
Let me just say, I love the "I like" Facebook feature. There is something so perceptive of American culture for creators of a website to realize that people were searching for the ability to spend one click to acknowledge having spent at least 2 hours viewing photos, reading notes, browsing their friends' status updates, and generally just wasting time, without even having to spend 15-20 seconds typing a single sentence. Now that, my friends, is the American Dream.
No, but really, I LOVE the "I like" thing. In fact, I love it so much, I really wish we could start applying it to real life. For instance, when various organizations have their booth set up on the south oval, I really wish I could not take their flyer, but could simply give them the unambiguous "Thumbs-Up" to acknowledge that I do see what they are doing, and I "Like This."
This morning, I had a terribly uncomfortable experience which made me really wish the Real-Life "Like" feature had already taken off. About a month ago, my friend Corey asked if I would mind doing some music for an event her organization was putting on. "Sure!" I had said at the time, thankful for any opportunity offered to me. The event was being put on by ASAA, which is "Advocates for Sexual Assault Awareness." They were going to have resources available for learning about the dangers of Sexual Assault, and for victims of Sexual Assault to gain information if needed. A legitimate cause, I would say. They wanted to have live music throughout the event to draw people's attention and make people feel comfortable. The event was to be held in the Crossroads Lounge.
Let's discuss this for a moment.
Crossroads Lounge is a fairly open space just adjacent to Crossroads Restaurant in the Student Union, for those of you who are unfamiliar. There are seats facing two directions, and large big screen TVs on either end which can generally be found to be tuned in to CNN and ESPN, respectively.
People in Crossroads Lounge are not interested in listening to music.
They are also not interested in Sexual Assault Awareness.
They are there to eat their burger and curly fries and check MLB stats.
This is awkward.
In addition to this, when I had said yes to Corey, she let me know she was having several people play, etc. When she messaged me this week with the schedule for the morning, she said "Yeah, Katie, if you could play from 10-1130 that would be great."
An hour and a half is a long fancy time.
So, around 1015, I wander awkwardly up to where the microphones are set up. This, by the way, is DIRECTLY to the left of the big screen tuned in to ESPN.
This is awkward.
I uncomfortably mumble something about being there as part of "Think Teal" day, and to check out the booths in the back, and then start, voice shaking, into the first song.
SO awkward.
I would venture to say that this was one of the most extended uncomfortable experiences I have faced. There are several reasons for this.
1) I am used to playing for people who are there to listen to music. I am not used to being in competition with the sports channel in a lounge at a school like OU.
2) I am used to playing for people I know. I had a maximum of 2 friends present at any time during the performance. This is not a dish on my friends, because I did not advertise this because it was not going to be the performance of the year, but there is definitely something to be said for having friendly faces in the crowd.
3) I was getting little to no feedback of any kind, and the feedback I was getting was indiscernible at best. The first several songs I played received no applause whatsoever, I think because people were still fairly confused about what was going on. The songs following received sporadic applause. This is confusing as an artist and really makes you want to crawl away and die (I resisted this urge).
This is where the "Like" feature of real life would have been SO handy. For instance, there were many people who were walking by, looking in, and continuing to walk. There were also some people who sat and listened for awhile, and then got up and left. Maybe they had class, but there remained a large possibility in my mind that they think I suck. There was absolutely no way to tell the difference between these two categories of audience members.
On occasion, I would get a smile from a person walking by. Generally, the smile is considered a sign of acknowledgment and general pleasant feeling, but how was I to know whether this was a look of pity or obligatory encouragement like Paula smiles at the auditioners who absolutely fail so miserably but are cute while they do it? (American Idol reference, yes, I know, I am ashamed.)
So, it was in these not-so-few moments of excruciating discomfort that I wished so desperately that the "Like" feature existed in real life, simply so I could have some idea of what the people walking by were thinking. It would have been fine for them to keep walking, if I could only have had acknowledgment from them that I am not a musical failure.
So, something to think about. Next time you see someone playing music in the Union foodcourt, give them the face-book coined version of the thumbs-up and continue with your day.
Maybe even a real-life Like-Attack is in order?
Monday in my first class, my prof told us about an author. His fourth work is "La Disparition," and its translation is "A Void." A stunning fact about this book is that in his final copy, this author's writing did not contain his country's most common linguistic sign.
The letter "e."
Okay, so I wrote the above paragraph without using the letter "e," and that was the most difficult thing I've yet attempted on this blog. Georges Perec, French author of "La Disparition," wrote a 300-page novel without using the most common letter in the French language, the letter "e." This novel has now been translated by 8 different authors, and each translation has followed this same lipogrammatic constraint in each respective language. The English version does not contain the letter E. The Spanish version does not contain the letter "A," which is the most common letter in its language.
I think language is one of the most incredible art forms we experience. (See Rusco for more discussion on art forms, however). I do not begin to understand or be familiar with all the intricacies of language, but this struck me as a beautiful example of the creativity--the same creativity that is found in art and literature--being present in language. The author challenging himself to work outside the normal bounds of linguistics: Ahh.
I've been thinking lately about things I want. If I made a list this moment of the things I would probably purchase today if I had unlimited cash, it would include all of the following (and probably some other things):
An iPhone
An iPod Touch
Some other brand of Phone with unrestrained internet access
A new Macbook
A new guitar
Guitar effects Pedals
A grand piano
A Flat Screen TV
I would venture to say that I do not need any of these things. I currently possess machines that accomplish all of the tasks these additional items would be used for. I rarely even watch Television. In fact, about 95% of me is sure that this desire for a flat-screen would exclusively be to feed my college football addiction and is not related to regular scheduled television whatsoever. But still, anytime any of these things are mentioned, or I look at the scuffed surface of my two-year old Macbook, or I send a text message in class on my loud-buttoned cell phone, or I am too lazy to haul said Macbook around campus in my bag in order to have wireless internet at my fingertips, my mind lusts after these oh-so-useful items.
Now, lately, I have been slightly sickened by my own consumerism mentality. Also, I have been trying to figure out at what point the Biblical concept of "covetousness" begins, and the effectiveness of American marketing schemes ends. When society says "Buy, Buy, Buy!" and I want immediately to go and buy, is that me just listening to the stimuli that have been strategically placed in my everyday interactions, or am I beginning to be too much "in the world?" I do not want to make this a question of uber-conservativism or me being ruled by my own legalism, this is just something lately I've been fascinated by.
Let me just say, I love the "I like" Facebook feature. There is something so perceptive of American culture for creators of a website to realize that people were searching for the ability to spend one click to acknowledge having spent at least 2 hours viewing photos, reading notes, browsing their friends' status updates, and generally just wasting time, without even having to spend 15-20 seconds typing a single sentence. Now that, my friends, is the American Dream.
No, but really, I LOVE the "I like" thing. In fact, I love it so much, I really wish we could start applying it to real life. For instance, when various organizations have their booth set up on the south oval, I really wish I could not take their flyer, but could simply give them the unambiguous "Thumbs-Up" to acknowledge that I do see what they are doing, and I "Like This."
This morning, I had a terribly uncomfortable experience which made me really wish the Real-Life "Like" feature had already taken off. About a month ago, my friend Corey asked if I would mind doing some music for an event her organization was putting on. "Sure!" I had said at the time, thankful for any opportunity offered to me. The event was being put on by ASAA, which is "Advocates for Sexual Assault Awareness." They were going to have resources available for learning about the dangers of Sexual Assault, and for victims of Sexual Assault to gain information if needed. A legitimate cause, I would say. They wanted to have live music throughout the event to draw people's attention and make people feel comfortable. The event was to be held in the Crossroads Lounge.
Let's discuss this for a moment.
Crossroads Lounge is a fairly open space just adjacent to Crossroads Restaurant in the Student Union, for those of you who are unfamiliar. There are seats facing two directions, and large big screen TVs on either end which can generally be found to be tuned in to CNN and ESPN, respectively.
People in Crossroads Lounge are not interested in listening to music.
They are also not interested in Sexual Assault Awareness.
They are there to eat their burger and curly fries and check MLB stats.
This is awkward.
In addition to this, when I had said yes to Corey, she let me know she was having several people play, etc. When she messaged me this week with the schedule for the morning, she said "Yeah, Katie, if you could play from 10-1130 that would be great."
An hour and a half is a long fancy time.
So, around 1015, I wander awkwardly up to where the microphones are set up. This, by the way, is DIRECTLY to the left of the big screen tuned in to ESPN.
This is awkward.
I uncomfortably mumble something about being there as part of "Think Teal" day, and to check out the booths in the back, and then start, voice shaking, into the first song.
SO awkward.
I would venture to say that this was one of the most extended uncomfortable experiences I have faced. There are several reasons for this.
1) I am used to playing for people who are there to listen to music. I am not used to being in competition with the sports channel in a lounge at a school like OU.
2) I am used to playing for people I know. I had a maximum of 2 friends present at any time during the performance. This is not a dish on my friends, because I did not advertise this because it was not going to be the performance of the year, but there is definitely something to be said for having friendly faces in the crowd.
3) I was getting little to no feedback of any kind, and the feedback I was getting was indiscernible at best. The first several songs I played received no applause whatsoever, I think because people were still fairly confused about what was going on. The songs following received sporadic applause. This is confusing as an artist and really makes you want to crawl away and die (I resisted this urge).
This is where the "Like" feature of real life would have been SO handy. For instance, there were many people who were walking by, looking in, and continuing to walk. There were also some people who sat and listened for awhile, and then got up and left. Maybe they had class, but there remained a large possibility in my mind that they think I suck. There was absolutely no way to tell the difference between these two categories of audience members.
On occasion, I would get a smile from a person walking by. Generally, the smile is considered a sign of acknowledgment and general pleasant feeling, but how was I to know whether this was a look of pity or obligatory encouragement like Paula smiles at the auditioners who absolutely fail so miserably but are cute while they do it? (American Idol reference, yes, I know, I am ashamed.)
So, it was in these not-so-few moments of excruciating discomfort that I wished so desperately that the "Like" feature existed in real life, simply so I could have some idea of what the people walking by were thinking. It would have been fine for them to keep walking, if I could only have had acknowledgment from them that I am not a musical failure.
So, something to think about. Next time you see someone playing music in the Union foodcourt, give them the face-book coined version of the thumbs-up and continue with your day.
Maybe even a real-life Like-Attack is in order?
2009/04/16
Sometimes Interesting Things Happen to Me
I teach piano lessons.
I have 2 students.
Usually I get paid for lessons on the first Wednesday of the month.
I went to the William Fitzsimmons concert last Tuesday.
I usually never work at the dorms on Wednesday nights.
(I know I promised this would be interesting. Just Wait.)
How are these things connected?
Well, it just so happens that all of these facts had to be present for me to have the experience I had last evening. If one of them was missing, the circumstances would have fallen apart, and these happenings would have never taken place.
Isn't that interesting?
So the story goes that one of my families I give piano lessons to had forgotten to pay me for April lessons until yesterday. I had stuck the check in my back pocket because I am sometimes a little airheaded and it seemed like a logical/safe idea at the time. However, because this was a silly idea in the first place, my pocket and the check conspired to spite me and at some point between RUF and my home, the check slipped out.
Now, at the time I realized this, it was around 11:45pm. The logical thing would have been to run to Dale at that point and search for it.
But that's where the second circumstance came into play.
Normally, I have duty on Monday nights, and some weekend night. But last week, Jena wanted to sit my Monday night duty so that I could sit her Tuesday. Normally this would be fine, but I was going to Tulsa for the William Fitzsimmons concert, and knew I would not be back in time to work. So Jena asked Nikky (the Wednesday night sitter) if she would join in our multi-switch. So Jena sat Monday, Nikky sat Tuesday, and I was to sit Nikky's Wednesday.
Unbeknownst to me, Nikky had also switched with Thursday girl (Vanessa) last week, and Thursday night girl was planning to sit Nikky's Wednesday. So when I arrived Wednesday of last week planning to sit, after much explaining, we realized Nikky's duty that night was double-booked, so I agreed to pay back my shift this week.
So, at 11:45pm, when I realized the check was missing, I had to be at work 5 minutes from then. Obviously, there was no time to go to Dale.
But this one check is a significant portion of my monthly income, and I was not ready to let it go so easily. (Especially considering I registered for Summer Conference this week and bought U2 tickets. Ouch, bank account hit.)
So when 5am rolled around, I walked through the silent night to the parking lot where Jena's car was parked.
5am is an eery time of day.
It's like this strange not quite night but not yet morning kind of time. All your senses are heightened. Every CSI episode you've ever watched comes flashing back in your mind as you expect at any moment to be grabbed from behind or for someone to emerge from the shadows.
I drove the half mile to the empty Dale Hall parking lot and scanned the lot from my car to see if I spotted a check on the ground. Not.
I walked towards the West Doors and pulled. Locked. Blast.
I looked to the North towards the parking lot, and noticed a figure coming slowly through the parking lot towards me.
Also at 5am, every figure is suspicious and probably has intention to kill you. This is a strange feeling.
Unfortunately for the sake of this story, the figure was not a serial murderer. But apparently OU has people who drive cart-pulling adult size tricycles that deliver the newspapers in the mornings. How did I not know this? (Anna, I think I've found a job for you.)
For some reason, wandering around campus in your sweatpants looking lost and peering in doors of buildings at 5am does not draw any attention. This was strange to me. Tricycle-driving newspaper man didn't even acknowledge me, but simply proceeded to deliver his newspapers. My 5am mind thought, "maybe Newspaper Man thinks I am a ghost. I wonder if he sees many ghosts mornings he is working."
Just as I was about to give up, after tricycle man drove away into the night, I saw a figure unlocking the west doors. He also did not acknowledge me. So I wandered into Dale, past some staring janitorial staff workers (they did seem to notice me, but didn't pay me much attention, so I'm sticking with my ghost theory) and scoured the RUF classroom at Dale.
Nothing.
Dejected, I walked back to my car and came home.
Someone had taken my parking spot.
Yes, that's right. You'd think that leaving for 10 or 15 minutes at 5 in the morning would not jeopardize your parking spot, and that it would be awaiting your return when you arrived back.
But, no. You'd be wrong.
The moral of this story is:
Sometimes interesting things happen to me, but only when a series of uninteresting things combines to present strange opportunities I would never have experienced otherwise.
This morning I had an email in my inbox. Someone found my check outside of Dale.
2009/04/02
J'ai lu, Mars 2009
Can you believe it's April already? The Oklahoma weather has been lately trying to deceive us into thinking it's December still, but apparently we're still taking the word of our calendars and we find ourselves thrust headlong into spring. I've loved seeing the campus blossom into the new season as flowers of beautiful kinds and colors (have you seen the tulips?) have been popping up in every direction. Oh, regeneration and renewal. Sure is refreshing to see, huh?
So here are books for March. I've pretty much decided January was a fluke and I'm just not going to finish five books a month. So, four it is. This month was a good one. I branched out of standard Reformed literature (twice...which is a start...) and I learned a lot. I think it's a shame for people to cut themselves off from the ideas of other believers because we don't line up with them perfectly doctrinally, and I think there is so much to be learned from others who are not looking at things from the same perspective as we are. I would love to discuss any of these ideas with you, as I am still wrestling with a lot of it.
Jesus Wants to Save Christians (Bell) – A church in the area recently added an addition to their building that cost $20 million. The newspaper ran a front page story that reported that one in five people in the city live in poverty. This book is about those two numbers. (How the American church is failing in all the ways we’ve seen the church fail before—including the same ways Israel failed). I love reading Rob Bell. (9)
Chosen By God (Sproul) – This is a very concise and effective presentation of Reformed Theology. Sproul addresses frequent questions and challenges of doctrines including the origin of sin, the nature of God, predestination, the implications of justice, grace, and mercy, and assurance of salvation. The 200 page read is well worth it, especially if you are just being introduced to these ideas for the first time. (8)
The Irresistible Revolution (Claiborne) – Shane Claiborne is a Jesus Lover trying to be the kind of Christian who actually looks like a follower of Christ. From the inner city of Philadelphia to the streets of Calcutta and the decimated villages of Iraq, Claiborne outlines his discontent with the American church and his vision and challenge to change the world through the power of the love that Christ both commands and demonstrates. I would suggest this to anyone looking to be inspired to action and anyone who is looking to see what the Gospel looks like when lived out literally. (9)
[Disclaimer: I don’t know that I agree with all of Claiborne’s theology (in fact, I know that I do not), but his call to the church to be more literal and less figurative is, if nothing else, something to get your mind and heart thinking about what Gospel Christianity looks like—and maybe it doesn’t look like the American Dream].
the enemy within (Lundgaard) – An in depth study into sin, what it looks like, how it works, how it affects us, and ten easy steps of how to stop sinning altogether. Just kidding. Lundgaard does a great job of examining sin and the role it plays in our lives and how to rely on Christ for grace to help defeat the power of sin in your life. Good study notes and questions. (7)
This month I've been discovering new music to love. Last month I liked Over the Rhine, and this month they still take the top spot. I love I want you to be my love and Spark a lot. Drunkard's Prayer is great too. If I could be a band, it would sound a lot like them sometimes.
I discovered Joshua James through my dear Lydia (who, by the way, usually introduces me to most of the good music I ever listen to...between her and Haden, I am set) this month, and there's something about him that I like and have enjoyed listening to. I really like Crash this Train.
Jena introduced me to the music of a friend of her's from Camp Wabanna (where several of our friends have worked summers) named Val Nebbia. She and the Nebbia band are flat out awesome. This has grown on me with every listen. She's unique and radiates with talent. I love it.
The things that kept me entertained and loving life over Spring Break (and also things I can check off my to-do list from last month) :
Pie Baking-- (This one is peach. It was yum.)
Painting. Anna and I sat on the back porch one afternoon and watched Into the Wild
and painted. I didn't bring my paints home from school, and my mother's collection has been slowly dwindling over the years...so we ended up a little bit lacking in color choices. I will likely paint over these and start again.
Songwriting/Recording. I set my goal to write 3 new songs over the break. I accomplished about 2 1/2. I'll continue to work. One is up on Myspace, if you haven't listened yet you should give it a listen and let me know what you think. I'm still testing the waters with it.
Also on my list from last month:
Summer Conference Registering (Just waiting for my ChickFilA check to come in). You should register too.
Camping (For now I am counting the Thursday night living room fort extravaganza as the closest I will likely come to camping at least for the time being. But I am still checking it off my list.)
Currently obsessed with: Vitamin C (and hence, Jamba Juice) and foreign films (or films depicting foreign countries). I am recently getting over my short-lived March Madness obsession and definitely find it a poor substitute for college football.
Movies I saw worth watching: Into the Wild, La Vie en Rose, Slumdog Millionaire, Notting Hill, and Jerry McGuire.
I love this song. Thanks, A. It's playing on repeat.
So here are books for March. I've pretty much decided January was a fluke and I'm just not going to finish five books a month. So, four it is. This month was a good one. I branched out of standard Reformed literature (twice...which is a start...) and I learned a lot. I think it's a shame for people to cut themselves off from the ideas of other believers because we don't line up with them perfectly doctrinally, and I think there is so much to be learned from others who are not looking at things from the same perspective as we are. I would love to discuss any of these ideas with you, as I am still wrestling with a lot of it.
Jesus Wants to Save Christians (Bell) – A church in the area recently added an addition to their building that cost $20 million. The newspaper ran a front page story that reported that one in five people in the city live in poverty. This book is about those two numbers. (How the American church is failing in all the ways we’ve seen the church fail before—including the same ways Israel failed). I love reading Rob Bell. (9)
Chosen By God (Sproul) – This is a very concise and effective presentation of Reformed Theology. Sproul addresses frequent questions and challenges of doctrines including the origin of sin, the nature of God, predestination, the implications of justice, grace, and mercy, and assurance of salvation. The 200 page read is well worth it, especially if you are just being introduced to these ideas for the first time. (8)
The Irresistible Revolution (Claiborne) – Shane Claiborne is a Jesus Lover trying to be the kind of Christian who actually looks like a follower of Christ. From the inner city of Philadelphia to the streets of Calcutta and the decimated villages of Iraq, Claiborne outlines his discontent with the American church and his vision and challenge to change the world through the power of the love that Christ both commands and demonstrates. I would suggest this to anyone looking to be inspired to action and anyone who is looking to see what the Gospel looks like when lived out literally. (9)[Disclaimer: I don’t know that I agree with all of Claiborne’s theology (in fact, I know that I do not), but his call to the church to be more literal and less figurative is, if nothing else, something to get your mind and heart thinking about what Gospel Christianity looks like—and maybe it doesn’t look like the American Dream].
the enemy within (Lundgaard) – An in depth study into sin, what it looks like, how it works, how it affects us, and ten easy steps of how to stop sinning altogether. Just kidding. Lundgaard does a great job of examining sin and the role it plays in our lives and how to rely on Christ for grace to help defeat the power of sin in your life. Good study notes and questions. (7)This month I've been discovering new music to love. Last month I liked Over the Rhine, and this month they still take the top spot. I love I want you to be my love and Spark a lot. Drunkard's Prayer is great too. If I could be a band, it would sound a lot like them sometimes.
I discovered Joshua James through my dear Lydia (who, by the way, usually introduces me to most of the good music I ever listen to...between her and Haden, I am set) this month, and there's something about him that I like and have enjoyed listening to. I really like Crash this Train.
Jena introduced me to the music of a friend of her's from Camp Wabanna (where several of our friends have worked summers) named Val Nebbia. She and the Nebbia band are flat out awesome. This has grown on me with every listen. She's unique and radiates with talent. I love it.
The things that kept me entertained and loving life over Spring Break (and also things I can check off my to-do list from last month) :Pie Baking-- (This one is peach. It was yum.)
Painting. Anna and I sat on the back porch one afternoon and watched Into the Wildand painted. I didn't bring my paints home from school, and my mother's collection has been slowly dwindling over the years...so we ended up a little bit lacking in color choices. I will likely paint over these and start again.
Songwriting/Recording. I set my goal to write 3 new songs over the break. I accomplished about 2 1/2. I'll continue to work. One is up on Myspace, if you haven't listened yet you should give it a listen and let me know what you think. I'm still testing the waters with it.
Also on my list from last month:Summer Conference Registering (Just waiting for my ChickFilA check to come in). You should register too.
Camping (For now I am counting the Thursday night living room fort extravaganza as the closest I will likely come to camping at least for the time being. But I am still checking it off my list.)
Currently obsessed with: Vitamin C (and hence, Jamba Juice) and foreign films (or films depicting foreign countries). I am recently getting over my short-lived March Madness obsession and definitely find it a poor substitute for college football.
Movies I saw worth watching: Into the Wild, La Vie en Rose, Slumdog Millionaire, Notting Hill, and Jerry McGuire.
I love this song. Thanks, A. It's playing on repeat.
2009/03/08
Have you been outdoors? It's so great.
My spirits have been lifted these past few days, thanks to the brightness of the sun and the warmth of the air. God is making all things new, once again, and it's beautiful to be a witness.
"The sun illuminates only the eye of the man, but shines into the eye and the heart of the child." -- R. W. Emerson
"The sun illuminates only the eye of the man, but shines into the eye and the heart of the child." -- R. W. Emerson
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