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Month: May 2015
~Honor In God Verses The World's Version of Honor~
It was my duty to shoot the enemy, and I don't regret it. My regrets are for the people I couldn't save: Marines, soldiers, buddies. I'm not naive, and I don't romanticize war. The worst moments of my life have come as a SEAL. But I can stand before God with a clear conscience about doing my job.
This is the day that the Lord has made and also a day that we who served in the United States Military Armed Forces were honored at Kansas Avenue SDA Church for our service and dedication to our country. Today was a day that I watched along with many others, my husband Chief Petty Officer Aaron Dejohn Pratt be honored with a standing ovation from the entire congregation for his service as a Navy SEAL, a POW and as a Mighty Man of God. I can truly say that I have never been as proud as I was today to see the love and respect of others who never knew that Aaron was "more" than a Man of God, but also a dedicated soldier who served his country with all that he had, even as a POW.
I would like to thank Colonel Bill Howe for including me and my husband in today's celebration of freedom and liberty, and for his steadfastness in honoring my husband as a Navy SEAL.
Loyalty to Country, Team and Teammate
• Serve with Honor and Integrity On and Off the Battlefield
• Ready to Lead, Ready to Follow, Never Quit
• Take responsibility for your actions and the actions of your teammates
• Excel as Warriors through Discipline and Innovation
• Train for War, Fight to Win, Defeat our Nation's Enemies
• Earn your Trident everyday
May and I are always excited about going to the house of worship on Sunday, Saturday or mid week. We are doubly honored when Crown of Life Ministries and Pastor Jones and his wife Sandra allow us to be incorporated within the functions of that church as well. We have been in hot pursuit of opening our dream business "Second Chance Alliance" and in performing the work required we have been side by side with several City and State officials, but never the chief of Police of Riverside County and two Councilmen of 7th District and 2nd District of Riverside. May was throw a back for real when she was given the opportunity to take this photo with one of the original Tuskegee Airmen.
Sometimes a little book can make a big difference in how people think about right and wrong.
Harriet Beecher Stowe's 1852 novel, Uncle Tom's Cabin, profoundly affected the way white Americans perceived slavery. Ten years later and across the Atlantic, Henry Dunant published another revolutionary book, A Memory of Solferino: his eyewitness account of the aftermath of one of Europe's bloodiest battles.
Dunant's book is rarely read today. But if you are outraged when bombs, rockets, or artillery shells fall on hospitals, schools, and places of worship, you can trace that presumption—that these should be safe places—to Dunant.
Across cultures and time, honor and manliness have been inextricably tied together. In many cases, they were synonymous. Honor lost was manhood lost. Because honor was such a central aspect of a man's masculine identity, men would go to great lengths to win honor and prevent its loss.
If we take even a cursory look at history, honor pops up over and over again as a central theme in literature and life. The epic poems of Homer are primarily about honor and man's quest to achieve and maintain it. If you read Shakespeare's plays with a close eye, you'll find that honor and manhood take center stage as reoccurring themes. During the 17th and all the way into the early 20th century, upperclass men in Europe and the United States regularly engaged in duels on "fields of honor" to defend their manhood. When signing the Declaration of Independence, the American Founding Fathers "mutually pledged to each other our lives, our fortunes, and our sacred honor."
But what exactly is honor?
We throw the word around quite a bit in our modern lexicon and give it a lot of lip service, but if you were to ask someone, "What is honor?" you'll likely be answered with furrowed brows and head scratches. We think we know what it is, but often find it difficult to articulate when pressed. If you're lucky enough to get an answer out of someone, they'll likely say that honor means being true to a set of personal ideals, or being a man of integrity.
Honor=integrity is the point to which the definition of honor has evolved and what it generally means in our society today. Honor as I understand it is defined in a book called, The Art of Manliness Manvotionals.
That definition of honor, while correct in our modern use of the word, doesn't really capture the concept of honor that Homer wrote about, that countless duelists died for, and that our Founding Fathers swore upon. Except for a few pockets of society like the military, fire departments, and criminal gangs, honor, as millions of men from the past understood it, barely exists in the modern West. When folks in the mainstream do bring up this type of honor, it's usually done in jest. (See Man Code or Bro Code).
And while there are certainly some very troubling aspects of honor as it was understood in the past , I believe that part of the decline of manhood in America and other Western countries can be traced in part to a lack of a positive notion and healthy appreciation of the kind of classic honor that compelled (and checked) our manly ancestors.
Question: "What does the Bible say about honor?"
Answer:As a noun,honor in the Bible means "esteem, value, or great respect." To honor someone is to value him highly or bestow value upon him. The Bible exhorts us to express honor and esteem toward certain people: our parents, the aged, and those in authority (Ephesians 6:2;Leviticus 19:32;Romans 13:1). But we must understand that all authority and honor belong to God alone (1 Chronicles 29:11;1 Timothy 1:17;Revelation 5:13). Though He can delegate His authority to others, it still belongs to Him (Ephesians 4:11-12).
Peter tells us to "honor all people, love the brotherhood, fear God, honor the king" (1 Peter 2:17). The idea of honoring others, especially those in authority (the king), comes from the fact that they represent God's ultimate authority. A classic example is the command to "submit to the governing authorities because they have been established by God" (Romans 13:1-6). Therefore, "he who rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves" (Romans 13:2). This means it is incumbent upon Christians to honor those whom God has placed over us through our obedience and demonstration of respect. To do otherwise is to dishonor God.
The Bible speaks of another noteworthy group of people who are deserving of "double honor," the leadership of the church, called elders: "Let the elders who rule well be considered worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in preaching and teaching" (1 Timothy 5:17). In the first-century church, some elders labored in word and doctrine by devoting their time to preaching and teaching, while others did so privately. However, all elders gave attention to the interests of the church and the welfare of its members. These men were entitled to double honor of both respect and deference for their position, as well as material or monetary support. This was especially significant because the New Testament was not yet available.
The Bible also gives us the command to honor one another in our employer/employee relationships (1 Timothy 3:17;6:1;Ephesians 6:5-9), as well as in the marriage relationship with the husband and wife being in submission to and honoring one another (Hebrews 13:4;Ephesians 5:23-33). Interestingly enough, of all the commands to honor one another, the most oft-repeated pertains to that of honoring one's father and mother (Exodus 20:12;Matthew 15:4). This command was so important to God that if anyone cursed or struck his parent, he was to be put to death (Exodus 21:7).
The wordloveis also sometimes synonymous for honor. Paul commands us to "be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves" (Romans 12:10). Honoring others, however, goes against our natural instinct, which is to honor and value ourselves. It is only by being imbued with humility by the power of the Holy Spirit that we can esteem and honor our fellow man more than ourselves (Romans 12:3;Philippians 2:3).
The book of Proverbs illustrates the association of a one's behavior with its resulting honor. For example, "He who pursues righteousness and love finds life, prosperity and honor" (Proverbs 21:21; see alsoProverbs 22:4;29:23). Often, honor is conferred upon those of wisdom and intelligence, thereby earning praise and adoration (1 Kings 10:6-7). Another kind of honor pertains to those who have great wealth or fame (Joshua 6:27). Correspondingly, we also know that such worldly honor, fame and wealth, in the end, is meaningless and short-lived (Ecclesiastes 1:14;James 4:14).
Honor as taught in the Scriptures is far different from the type of honor sought after by the world. Honor and awards are heaped upon those with wealth, political clout, worldly power, and celebrity status. Those who thrive on this world's fleeting honor and stature are unmindful that "God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble" (1 Peter 5:5; see alsoProverbs 16:5;Isaiah 13:11). Such were the Pharisees of Jesus' time, who sought honor and accolades from men. But in truth, Jesus rejected them. He said, "Everything they do is done for men to see" (Matthew 23:5). He not only labeled them as hypocrites, but "snakes" and "vipers," essentially condemning them to hell (Matthew 23:29-33).
The point to be made here is that the world in which we reside is corrupt (Deuteronomy 32:5;Philippians 2:15) because it does not give to God the honor He deserves. The one who honors the world and the things of it makes himself an enemy of God (James 4:4). The apostle Paul wrote, "For even though they knew God, they did not honor Him as God or give thanks, but they became futile in their speculations, and their foolish heart was darkened" (Romans 1:21). The Bible teaches that honor is found in God and His Son and in our being like Him (John 15:8). We are to give obeisance to Him through the fruits of our labors (Proverbs 3:9;1 Corinthians 10:31), as well as through the care and nurture of our bodies (1 Corinthians 6:19). To esteem God as first in our lives (Matthew 22:37-38) is thereby expressed in both the total commitment of our lives and devotion of our possessions to His service and glory (Colossians 3:17). Though we are in this world, we are not of this world (John 15:18-21). This means, as we honor God through our godly character, we will reap dishonor from those of the world. In fact, the Bible teaches us that "everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted" (2 Timothy 3:12).
After all is said and done, we do know this: as the heavens and all therein raise their voices in honor and praise to God, we are to do likewise: "You are worthy, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for You created all things, and by Your will they were created and have their being" (Revelation 4:11). There has never been, nor will there ever be, anyone in any position of power or worldly influence who can claim such an honor (1 Timothy 6:16). God alone is the Creator and sustainer of all the heavens and the earth (Revelation 14:7).
All true believers are to honor God and His Son, Jesus Christ, through our acknowledgement and confession that He is the one and only God (Exodus 20:3;John 14:6;Romans 10:9). We are to honor God in our recognition that the gift of life eternal and the very salvation of our souls come through Jesus Christ and Him alone (John 11:25;Acts 4:12;1 Timothy 2:5). Knowing this, we give honor and obeisance to our Savior through our humble adoration and obedience to His will (John 14:23-24;1 John 2:6). As such, He will honor us when He seats us on His throne in heaven (Revelation 3:21).
~Happy Birthday Grateful~
"Gratitude gladdens the heart. It is not sentimental, nor jealous, nor judgmental. As gratitude grows, it gives rise to joy. We experience the courage to rejoice in our own good fortune and in the good fortune of others. Joy is natural to an open heart. In it, we are not afraid of pleasure. We do not mistakenly believe it is disloyal to the suffering of the world to honor the happiness we have been given. Like gratitude, joy gladdens the heart. We can be joyful for people we love, for moments of goodness, for sunlight and trees and for the breath within our breast. And as our joy grows, we finally discover a happiness without cause. Like an innocent child who does not have to do anything to be happy, we can rejoice in life itself, in being alive."
As I hope to celebrate my birthday tomorrow, I am immediately overwhelmed by feelings of gratitude to The Almighty. Over the last year there have been many major changes that have happened in my life. Some good, some not so good. But, they have brought me to a place where I yearn for simplicity. I have always been a simplistic soul in the making…I just didnt know how awesome it would feel when I actually simplified EVERYTHING!
To be simple and thankful together, is a sure shot recipe for inner happiness. I have simplified not only my outside world, but also my inside world. My thoughts and feelings, my hopes and dreams, my life purpose and my goals….have been drastically simplified. From wanting to write a book for fame to now writing a book for the sheer joy of helping, from wanting a massive house to now living in a cosy apartment with my wife, to feeling overwhelmed by wants to being happy with my simple needs being met…..everything has been simplified and the process has made me so thankful for every little second to millisecond of my life.
I've simplified my writings, my blog and my ways….and am so so thankful for all the appreciative readers here on Fresh Oil, Ironically my simplified ways are appealing to more hearts than my complicated past layers…just goes to show what really touches hearts. right?!?!
I practice gratitude because gratitude re-shifts the focus from what I may have lose to what I may have. Even if I lose something in the process, I'm grateful for anything I got, because being grateful will enforce those parts and send the loss in the shadow. It's not always easy, but when I'm able to do it with my entire heart, I am reborn. It helped me see that, even if I am made of dark and light, like any other human being, I can control the percentage of light and dark in my being. Fellowship has kept me grateful and these events last year and this year up unto tomorrow have made me glad and thankful. Enjoy and pray for us as we pray for the world……
~There's a piece of heaven next to you in the church~
We live in a day when there's more Bible teaching than you could ever consume available through radio, television, and the Internet etc, why should it matter where and how you're taking in God's truth? What's wrong with virtual, web-based congregations for the digital-age church? Why wouldn't you want your iPod to be your worship leader, your IPAD tablet be your pastor, and your Facebook friends your fellowship and accountability?
The answer is simple: that's not the way God designed it.
I thank God for the technology we have available to us. Yet there is no substitute for interacting with actual people. I appreciate that if you are house bound due to illness for example this technology can be a lifeline.
The New Testament repeatedly emphasizes the importance of the local church. It was the pattern of Paul's ministry to establish local congregations in the cities where he preached the gospel. Hebrews 10:24-25 commands every believer to be a part of such a local body and reveals why this is necessary:
'Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works. And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near.'
I attended a memorial service in honor of a "Great Man Of God" yesterday and as I was being bathed in the word and soothed by the worship I looked beside me and all of a sudden I saw "A piece of Heaven" sitting next to me on that pew. My spirit was so enlighten. There are many reasons for my love of the church, but the main one is that "He" lives and we have His deposit within us that leads, comforts and reveals His love that has been shed abroad in our hearts.
Another reason from Scripture why I love the church is that it is like heaven on earth. I don't mean that the church is perfect, or that it offers some kind of utopian escape from the realities of a sinful world. But I mean that the church is the one place where all that occurs in heaven can also occur on earth.
Christ instructed us to pray, "Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven" (Matt. 6:10). In what sphere is that most likely to occur? Is it likely to occur in the House of Parliament or House of Lords? Unlikely. In the Law courts? Unlikely. In the Universities? Unlikely. Town Hall – local council? Unlikely. Where is God's will done on earth as it is in heaven? It is not that we don't want it to happen in these places, we would dearly love for it to be so.
But surely the place it is most likely to happen is in the church.
Let me pose a question. If all the activities of heaven were to be brought to earth, what activities would dominate?
First of all, worship. In every biblical description where people of God had visions of heaven, the one thing that stands out most is worship. Praise, adoration, thanksgiving, and devotion are constantly being offered to God in heaven. We see it in Isaiah 6:1-3, and we can read more about it in Revelation 4:8-11. In other words, every creature in heaven is continually engaged in worship.
Worship is also one of the main activities of the church. In 1 Corinthians 14:26, Paul describes what took place in a typical meeting in the early church:
"When you assemble, each one has a psalm, has a teaching, has a revelation, has a tongue, has an interpretation. Let all things be done for edification."
There he describes activities whose design is both to worship God and to edify the worshipers. And if an unbeliever came into the meeting, this was the desired response:
"The secrets of his heart are disclosed; and so he will fall on his face and worship God, declaring that God is certainly among you". (v. 25)
A second activity of heaven is the adoration of Christ. Having finished His earthly work, Christ is now seated at the Father's right in glory in pure exaltation (Acts 5:31). God Himself has exalted His Son, and given Him a name above every name (Phil. 2:9). Christ is "exalted above the heavens" (Heb. 7:27). And throughout all eternity we will be occupied exalting His name (Rev. 5:11-14). The church is the one sphere on earth where Christ's name is truly and genuinely exalted.
A third activity that takes place in heaven is the maintenance of purity and holiness. Heaven is a holy place. Revelation 22:14-15 underscores the perfect purity of heaven's inhabitants:
"Blessed are those who wash their robes, so that they may have the right to the tree of life, and may enter by the gates into the city. Outside are the dogs and the sorcerers and the immoral persons and the murderers and the idolaters, and everyone who loves and practices lying."
No one is admitted to heaven who is not holy (Heb. 12:14). The church on earth is charged with preserving purity within her own midst. Matthew 18:15-20 lays out a process of discipline by which the church is to keep herself pure, if necessary through putting people out of fellowship. It's not necessary in this context to outline the whole discipline process, but take note of the promise Christ makes in verse 18:
"Truly I say to you, whatever you bind on earth shall have been bound in heaven; and whatever you loose on earth shall have been loosed in heaven."
Binding and loosing were rabbinical expressions that spoke of dealing with people's guilt. An unrepentant person was said to be bound to his sin, and a repentant person was loosed. Here Jesus suggests that when a church on earth follows the proper procedure for discipline, they in effect mediate heaven's verdict in the earthly church. Heaven is in agreement with their decision. When the church on earth puts out of fellowship an unrepentant member, the elders of that church are simply declaring what heaven has already said.
Church discipline is therefore an earthly expression of heaven's holiness.
Another activity of heaven that occurs in the church is the fellowship of the saints. Our fellowship in the church on earth is a foretaste of the perfect communion we will enjoy in heaven. The church, then, is like an earthly expression of heaven. That might be hard for us to grasp or even except.
The church is the closest we can get to heaven on earth.
There's a lot of talk these days about 'user-friendly' churches. Church growth experts counsel church leaders to try to provide an atmosphere in which 'unchurched' people can feel comfortable and at home. That strikes me a little odd, whilst I appreciate their approach we should want 'unchurched' people who come into our fellowship to leave saying to themselves, 'I have never seen anything like this on earth!' We want them to experience the love of God and yet dare I say be convicted of their need of Christ. When people come to our services or spend time with us it should be like they are experiencing a little bit of heaven.
I read an article about a large mega church in Texas where they invest tens, if not hundreds, of thousands of dollars each year in promoting seeker friendly services. The article reviewed their attempt and concluded that they were very successful in being seeker friendly, but that they failed dramatically in making disciples.
More than any other institution on earth, the church is where the truth of God is upheld. The church is called to proclaim the truth and hold it high. (1 Tim. 3:15). Employing the truth as a weapon, we are to smash the ideological fortresses of Satan's lies (2 Cor. 10:3-5). And it is in the pursuit of that goal that the church will ultimately realize her greatest triumph.
What if the Church is an earthly expression of Heaven?
~O' MY Lord; Is there a balm in Gilead?~
For I am my mother's daughter, and the drums of Africa still beat in my heart. They will not let me rest while there is a single Negro boy or girl without a chance to prove his worth.
This painting represents the struggles and injustices of African Americans throughout slavery. The eyes in this painting shows the bondage, oppression and slayings that was given at the hands of their oppressors. The tears in this painting shows the inner hurts and pains of slavery and bloodshed. The eyes are the gateway to the soul and it magnifies what's on the inside. God has given us a new hope which is in his Son Jesus Christ. Not only as a person and race, but also as a people united under God.
Laugh, and the world laughs with you. Cry, and you are probably reading the book of Jeremiah. This gloomy prophecy about the conquering and exile of Israel is enough to send anyone searching for some spiritual Prozac. Jeremiah is torn between two great loves. He loves God and serves God as a prophet with great passion. He loves the people of Israel and he is terribly sorry to see what they will have to go through. Questioning God, Jeremiah asks, "Is the Lord not in Zion? Is there no balm in Gilead? Is there no Physician there?" – In other words: "God, aren't you here anymore?"
It seems a good question for Jeremiah and for us as well when we look at a world at war, countries in crisis from disease, drought and oppression, religion that chooses legalism over compassion and dogma over discernment, and humanity lost in materialism and chronic self-absorption. It is not hard for us to see Iraq, AIDS, Darfur, church crisis and the latest celebrity obsession and say, "God, aren't you here anymore?"
The Poet T.S. Eliot looked at the state of culture and society when he wrote "The Rock" in 1934 which said:
All our knowledge brings us nearer to our ignorance,
All our ignorance brings us nearer to death,
But nearness to death no nearer to God.
Where is the Life we have lost in living?
Where is the wisdom we have lost in knowledge?
Where is the knowledge we have lost in information?
T. S. Eliot seems to re-order Jeremiah's question. The problem is not that God isn't with us anymore – but that we are no longer near God. We have changed the life transforming power of Christianity to a set of rules and rituals. We have given up the wisdom of diplomacy and listening for a culture of war and force. We have traded having a knowing relationship with God and others for memorizing scripture, and relying on demographics.
Now, now – I know what you're thinking. You're thinking, – "wow – Aaron's sure in a gloomy mood – he's been reading that Jeremiah book a little too long! Maybe a nice psalm or some proverbs would cheer him up…" but have no fear. I have a great joy and hope today and so can you – because the New Testament reminds us we are blessed when we weep – for we shall be comforted. We need only look at history to see our future.
There is a Balm in Gilead
A balm is a healing ointment. Jeremiah is asking about the famous healing lotion made from the commiphora tree of Palestine, the resinous gum we know as Myrrh. (you know the Christmas story – Gold, Frankenstein and Myrrh…er…..Frankincense and myrrh…). Jeremiah is making a spiritual reference to the healing power of God. In the New Testament, baby Jesus will be given this balm to show healing does exist with him. That's the good news.
Before 1865, African-American spirituals and slave-songs were sung throughout the south. These songs told the gospel and conveyed scripture to people who couldn't read, and were used for everything from teaching English and counting to new arrivals, to keeping time in a threshing house, to communicating news about the underground railroad ("The Train is Bound for Glory", and "Swing Low, Sweet Chariot" were both underground railroad songs). One of the great old hymns to come out of that era was "There is a Balm in Gilead". An oppressed people who, like Israel, had been captured, enslaved, and ill-used were answering Jeremiah's question with the New Testament assurance that healing was here to stay. How can we find that assurance today? Let's look at the song:
Sometimes I feel discouraged and think my work's in vain,
But then the Holy Spirit revives my soul again.
There is a balm in Gilead to make the wounded whole;
There is a balm in Gilead to heal the sin sick soul.
First – look to the Holy Spirit for revitalization and renewal. When we feel like the plans for peace we have offered bounced right off the clouds of heaven, or the life work we have given our talent toward has produced mediocre results at best – we need to pray for ourselves and the revival of our mission and our call. Every Christian is called of God. Whether you are called to be a mechanic, a teacher, or a listening friend working on an assembly line – you are called to be there (or to move). Don't let the joy be leeched from you by those around you with bad attitudes or the determination to be self-absorbed pessimists. Allow God's Holy Spirit to work in you and make the life you are living a worthy pursuit of hope and healing.
If you cannot preach like Peter, if you cannot pray like Paul,
You can tell the love of Jesus and say, "He died for all."
There is a balm in Gilead to make the wounded whole;
There is a balm in Gilead to heal the sin sick soul.
Second – People of faith need to stop relying on the messengers and start living the message. I know that sounds strange coming from a member of the clergy, but I find it a key issue for our times. Clergy have specific roles we fulfill, but it s not our call to be the community. That's your job. We need to stop letting other people (leaders, theologians, popular authors) read for us, think for us, determine our beliefs and be the witness for us. We need to take responsibility in our relationship with God and learn to use resources as guides, not crutches. I heard at a ministry conference two years ago that the M.Div. will soon be the "minimum standard" for all clergy, but a doctorate is required for "adequate Christian leadership". Why do you need a doctorate to live as Christ taught a bunch of fishermen, peasants and tax collectors? Christ didn't come to make us a collection of sheep led by the educated elite. Christ came to make us a community, lead by a vibrant, personal relationship with our Creator. You don't have to be Peter, M.Div or Dr. Paul (or even Dr. Phil – thank goodness!) – Be you, use your brain and the resources God places around you, and share the gospel where you are.
Don't ever feel discouraged, for Jesus is your friend;
And if you lack for knowledge, He'll never refuse to lend.
There is a balm in Gilead to make the wounded whole;
There is a balm in Gilead to heal the sin sick soul.
Third – seek God's wisdom and will. Don't interpret point number two as meaning Christian leaders should not be college educated. There's nothing wrong with education – it's a worthy pursuit. However, our trust should not be in our own intelligence, experiences or credentials. Our trust should be in God's wisdom, and God has placed that wisdom all over creation. Many Christians have cut off a plethora of God's knowledge because it isn't in the Bible or sold at the Christian Bookstore. There is a whole world of God out there – in the knowledge of farmers, through the power of indigenous cultures, in the arena of mathematics and physics (how better to understand how God made the world to turn?), in the mystical algorithm of language and music, and in the instinctual habits of nature. Stop discounting the steady stream of God in the world around you and start listening and learning all that God can have you know.
We need not to succumb to the gloom and doom of Jeremiah, because we know that healing of God is here. We need not reflect the cultural despair of T.S. Eliot because we know how to be near God. We can be people of Gilead with a life witness worth shining for the entire world to see. Then, the healing can begin.
~ A Black American~
God and Nature first made us what we are, and then out of our own created genius we make ourselves what we want to be. Follow always that great law. Let the sky and God be our limit and Eternity our measurement.
"A Black American"
by Smokey Robinson
"I love being Black. I love being called Black. I love being an American.
I love being a Black American, but as a Black man in this country I think it's a shame
That every few years we get a change of name.
Since those first ships arrived here from Africa that came across the sea
There were already Black men in this country who were free.
And as for those that came over here on those terrible boats,
They were called niggah and slave
And told what to do and how to behave.
And then master started trippin' and doing his midnight tippin',
Down to the slave shacks where he forced he and Great-Great Grandma to
be together,
And if Great-Great Grandpa protested, he got tarred and feathered.
And at the same time, the Black men in the country who were free,
Were mating with the tribes like the Apache and the Cherokee.
And as a result of all that, we're a parade of every shade.
And as in this late day and age, you can be sure,
They ain't too many of us in this country whose bloodline is pure.
But, according to a geological, geographical, genealogy study published
in Time Magazine,
The Black African people were the first on the scene,
So for what it's worth, the Black African people were the first on earth
And through migration, our characteristics started to change, and rearrange,
To adapt to whatever climate we migrated to.
And that's how I became me, and you became you.
So, if we gonna go back, let's go all the way back,
And if Adam was Black and Eve was Black,
Then that kind of makes it a natural fact that everybody in America is an African American.
Everybody in Europe is an African European; everybody in the Orient is an African Asian
And so on and so on,
That is, if the origin of man is what we're gonna go on.
And if one drop of Black blood makes you Black like they say,
Then everybody's Black anyway.
So quit trying to change my identity.
I'm already who I was meant to be
I'm a Black American, born and raised.
And brother James Brown wrote a wonderful phrase,
"Say it loud, I'm Black and I'm proud! Say it loud, I'm Black and I'm proud!"
Cause I'm proud to be Black and I ain't never lived in Africa,
And 'cause my Great-Great Granddaddy on my Daddy's side did, don't mean I want to go back.
Now I have nothing against Africa,
It's where some of the most beautiful places and people in the world are found.
But I've been blessed to go a lot of places in this world,
And if you ask me where I choose to live, I pick America, hands down.
Now, by and by, we were called Negroes, and after while, that name has vanished.
Anyway, Negro is just how you say "black" in Spanish.
Then, we were called colored, but ****, everybody's one color or another,
And I think it's a shame that we hold that against each other.
And it seems like we reverted back to a time when being called Black was an insult,
Even if it was another Black man who said it, a fight would result,
Cause we've been so brainwashed that Black was wrong,
So that even the yellow niggahs and black niggahs couldn't get along.
But then, came the 1960s when we struggled and died to be called equal and Black,
And we walked with pride with our heads held high and our shoulders pushed back,
And Black was beautiful.
But, I guess that wasn't good enough,
Cause now here they come with some other stuff.
Who comes up with this **** anyway?
Was it one, or a group of niggahs sitting around one day?
Feelin' a little insecure again about being called Black
And decided that African American sounded a little more exotic.
Well, I think you were being a little more neurotic.
It's that same mentality that got "Amos and Andy" put off the air,
Cause' they were embarrassed about the way the character's spoke.
And as a result of that action, a lot of wonderful Black actors ended up broke.
When we were just laughin' and have fun about ourselves.
So I say, "**** you if you can't take a joke."
You didn't see the "Beverly Hillbilly's" being protested by white folks.
And if you think, that cause you think that being called African American set all Black people's mind at ease…..
Since we affectionately call each other "niggah",
I affectionately say to you, "niggah Please".
How come I didn't get the chance to vote on who I'd like to be?
Who gave you the right to make that decision for me?
I ain't under your rule or in your dominion
And I am entitled to my own opinion.
Now there are some African Americans here,
But they recently moved here from places like Kenya, Ethiopia, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Zaire.
But, now the brother who's family has lived in the country for generations,
Occupying space in all the locations
New York, Miami, L.A., Detroit, Chicago-
Even if he's wearing a dashiki and sporting an afro.
And, if you go to Africa in search of your race,
You'll find out quick you're not an African American,
You're just a Black American in Africa takin' up space.
Why you keep trying to attach yourself to a continent,
Where if you got the chance and you went,
Most people there would even claim you as one of them; as a pure bread daughter or son of them.
Your heritage is right here now, no matter what you call yourself or what you say
And a lot of people died to make it that way.
And if you think America is a leader on inequality and suffering and grievin'
How come there so many people comin' and so few leavin'?
Rather than all this 'find fault with America' **** you promotin',
If you want to change something, use your privilege, get to the polls!
Commence to votin'!
God knows we've earned the right to be called American Americans and be free at last.
And rather than you movin' forward progress, you dwelling in the past.
We've struggled too long; we've come too far.
Instead of focusing on who we were, let's be proud of who we are.
We are the only people whose name is always a trend.
When is this **** gonna end?
Look at all the different colors of our skin-
Black is not our color. It's our core.
It's what we been livin' and fightin' and dyin' for.
But if you choose to be called African American and that's your preference
Then I 'll give you that reference
But I know on this issue I don't stand alone on my own and if I do, then let me be me
And I'd appreciate it if when you see me, you'd say, "there goes a man who says it loud I'm Black. I'm Black. I'm a Black American, and I'm proud
Cause I love being an American. And I love being Black. I love being
called Black.
Yeah, I said it, and I don't take it back."
Smokey Robinson
~Invest in obedience rather than sacrifice~ Pt:3
In addition, Israel's sacrificial system recognized that not everyone could make the same kind of offering. If someone could not afford the cost of a young bull, a male goat or lamb, they were able instead to offer two doves or young pigeons. It they could not even afford that, Leviticus 5:11 allowed them to bring some fine flour as an offering. It is not the amount that is given which is important; it is the spirit in which we make our offering. We should give in proportion to how we've been blessed. The New Testament echoes this principle in 1 Corinthians 16 and 2 Corinthians 8-9.
5. It was sacrificial. They were to bring to God's house the "first fruits" of their crops "and of every fruit tree." (35) To offer the first of their crops was to declare that God was the giver of all things, that everything belongs to Him, and that He is worthy of the best we can offer Him. Here's a helpful principle to remember: while not everyone can give the same amount, everyone can make the same sacrifice. Not equal giving, but equal sacrifice. It was Mother Teresa who said, "If you give what you do not need, it isn't giving." And, C.S. Lewis put it this way, "I don't believe one can settle how much we ought to give. I'm afraid the only safe rule is to give more than we can spare."
6. It was comprehensive. They were to not only bring their crops and their money; they were to also bring their first-born sons and their animals to the Lord in verse 36. God is not just interested in our money, He wants our hearts. Actually, He wants everything.
7. It was prescribed. They were not only to bring their "first," but also a "tithe" of their crops to the Lord in verse 37. Giving a tenth of their produce or income to the Lord has a long and dignified history among believers and is an appropriate guide for Christian giving. As someone has said, "the tithe is a great place to start." I'm convinced that the tithe is the minimum we should be giving to further the Lord's work.
Tithing can be a great blessing, and I practice it and recommend it highly, but there are at least three dangers:
It's easy to give with the wrong motives. We can give out of a sense of duty or fear, or even greed ("If I tithe, God must prosper me!")
Thinking that we can do whatever we want with the 90% that remains.
Giving only the tithe and failing to give love offerings to the Lord.
Someone has said that we make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give. Jesus put it this way in Matthew 6:21: "Where your treasure is, there will your heart be also." Let's determine to be like the believers in Nehemiah 10:39: "We will not neglect the house of our God."
When it comes to giving, we can do it for at least three reasons:
Because we have to that's law
Because we ought to that's obligation
Because we want to that's grace
I don't know about you, but I want to give to the Lord. I came across a list of 10 reasons to give 10% or more to the Lord's work. A guy from the great state of Wisconsin (not me) put these together (Brian Kluth, Dimensions, Vol. 20, Fall 1997, pp. 1-2).
1. It is a tried and true pattern of giving (Malachi 3:7-15).
2. It will help you revere God more in your life (Deuteronomy 14:23).
3. It will help you harness the dragon of materialism (1 Timothy 6:6-10).
4. It will serve as a practical reminder that God is the Owner of everything (Haggai 2:8).
5. It will allow you to experience God's provisions in incredible ways (Luke 6:38).
6. It will encourage you to trust in God (Proverbs 3:5-6).
7. It will ensure you of treasure in heaven (Matthew 6:19-20).
8. It will strengthen the ministry and outreach of your local church (2 Corinthians 9:12).
9. It will support church staff and missionaries (Galatians 6:6).
10. It will help accomplish needed building projects (1 Chronicles 29:2-10).
Are You On the Wrong Runway?
I'm sure you heard the tragic news this week about the Singapore Airlines jumbo jet that crashed on take-off, killing at least 81 people. Investigators have now determined that the jet was on the wrong runway when it tried to leave for Los Angeles. The pilot realized at the last moment that he was on a strip closed for repairs and plowed into some heavy construction equipment.
Seconds before the jetliner crashed, caught fire and broke into three sections, the pilot swore and screamed out, "Something there." Apparently the pilot knew what runway he was supposed to be on and was not misdirected by the control tower. However, the officials have admitted that there was no barrier set up to block planes from going onto the closed runway. In addition, the lights on this runway were turned on because of the bad weather.
I'm wondering this morning if any one here is on the wrong runway. It might look like everything is going ok in your life, but you actually might be headed for a crash. The Bible is clear if you do things your way, you're going to have a collision. God wants you and me to make investments that last by:
• Submitting to God that answers the question, "Who's the pilot of your life?"
• Separating from the world that covers who we spend time with
• Practicing a Sabbath rest that deals with how we spend our time
• Supporting God's work which involves how we spend our money
If you're submitted to God, and He has "all of you," then you're cleared for take-off in your relationships, with your time, and with your finances.
Here's another way to look at it. If you could look at a person's friendships, their calendar, and their checkbook, you could determine whether or not they are fully submitted to God and completely committed to His cause.
~~Invest in obedience rather than sacrifice~ Pt-2
Vow #1: Submission to God's Word
As a result of hearing God's Word, the Israelites made four decisions. The first one is found in 10:29: "All these now join their brothers the nobles, and bind themselves with a curse and an oath to follow the Law of God given through Moses the servant of God and to obey carefully all the commands, regulations and decrees of the Lord our God."
This is vow #1: Submission to God's Word. They were totally serious in their desire to devote themselves to everything that is spelled out in the Bible. This week I went back and re-read my very first sermon here at PBC. This is what I said then, and it bears repeating today:
Who does God use to make an impact? Super saints? Heroes? Pious religious people? No. Listen to the words of 1 Chronicles 16:9, "For the eyes of the Lord range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to Him." The key is devotion. We need to remember that the depth of our devotion determines our impact. God is not looking all over the earth for strong people, for great people, for perfect people, or even for religious people. This morning, as He scans the congregation at PBC, He's looking for devoted disciples, for men and women, and boys and girls who are fully committed to Him. He's looking for a regular person who He can pour His strength out on. In order for that to happen, we need to be completely committed and dangerously devoted."
William Booth, the founder of the Salvation Army was once asked what his secret was to his incredible ministry. This is what he said, "God has had all that there was of me. There have been men with greater brains than I…but from the day I got the poor of London on my heart and caught a vision of what Jesus Christ could do with me and them, on that day I made up my mind that God should have all of William Booth that there was."
In Nehemiah 10, the people are saying that they are so seriously submitted to God and His Word that they are willing for the curses of God to fall on them if they do not carefully obey what He says. I wonder if we have that same submission and dangerous devotion today? Does God have all of you?
Vow #2: Separation From the World
After submitting themselves to God and His Word, the believers make a second vow to be separate from the world in verses 28 and 30: "We promise to not give our daughters in marriage to the peoples around us or to take their daughters for our sons." When you think about it, separation is simply total devotion to God, no matter what the cost. When a man and woman get married, they separate themselves from all other possible mates and give themselves completely to each other. We separate from others to the one who is our life mate. The Israelites separated from the peoples around them and to God and His Word.
This was not about ethnic pride or a sense that the Israelite gene pool was superior to that of other peoples. Rather it had to do with how they worshipped God and honored Him. Wrong relationships can nullify a believer's distinctive witness. God wanted his followers to be a missionary people and so it was vital that their message not be corrupted. In declaring this prohibition, the Lord was concerned about both the purity of their faith and the holiness of their lives. They had been entrusted with the most wonderful message in the world and nothing was to be allowed to corrupt it.
There were at least two reasons why marriages with pagan people were disastrous.
First, there were clear biblical warnings. When two people in the ancient world made a marriage agreement, they normally confirmed their commitment in the presence of their gods and gave each other's idols a prominent place in their new home. Joshua 23:13 says that heathen spouses would become "snares and traps for you, whips on your backs and thorns in your eyes…"
Secondly, there was abundant historical evidence that unequally yoked marriages led to a decline in Israel's spiritual and moral life. Nehemiah 13:26 asks the question, "Was it not because of marriages like these that Solomon king of Israel sinned? Among the many nations there was no king like him. He was loved by His God, and God made him king over all Israel, but even he was led into sin by foreign women."
We are more influenced by other people than most of us care to admit. Mixed marriages were a danger then, and they're a danger now. God's concern is that when a believer marries a non-believer the stage is set for conflict, compromise and at times outright conformity.
2 Corinthians 6:14 very clearly states: "Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness?"
Let me be clear. I know some of you are married to an unsaved spouse. I respect and applaud your commitment to Christ and your determination to live out the teaching of 1 Peter 3:1-6. The New Living Translation puts verses 2 and 3 this way: "Your godly lives will speak to them better than any words. They will be won over by watching your pure, godly behavior."
I want to address those of you who are not married yet. Perhaps you're dating someone who is not a believer. It may seem harmless to date a non-Christian, especially if you're a teenager, but watch out. God cares about your spiritual life and He cares about your ability to be a clear witness to Him. On the authority of God's Word, don't deliberately disobey God in this area. The question is not, "Will this relationship work out?" but, "Will this relationship enjoy God's best blessing and fulfill God's will?" I know this is not easy for some of you to hear but if you are truly submitted to God and His Word, you will honor Him in all your relationships as well. If you put Him first, don't enter a marriage relationship with someone who does not also put the Lord first.
Vow #3: Sabbath for God's People
After pledging themselves to submit to the Word of God and to live separated lives, the believers renew the covenant with a third vow: the Sabbath for God's people in verse 31: "When the neighboring peoples bring merchandise or grain to sell on the Sabbath, we will not buy from them on the Sabbath or any holy day. Every seventh year we will forgo working the land and will cancel all debts." In Nehemiah's time, it was necessary for God's law about the Sabbath to be clearly understood.
First of all, this day was set aside to honor God. It was distinctive from other days and given to God so that they might offer their worship to Him without being distracted by the demands of everyday life.
Secondly, it was a day of rest. Relaxation is a vital ingredient in effective living. God set the pattern for this in Exodus 20:11: "He rested on the seventh day." The Israelites worked with no breaks in their weekly schedule when they were slaves in Egypt God did not ever want this repeated again.
One man challenged another to an all-day wood chopping contest. The challenger worked very hard, stopping only for a brief lunch break. The other man ate a leisurely lunch and took several breaks throughout the day. At the end of the day, the challenger was surprised and annoyed to find that the other guy had chopped a lot more wood than he had. "I don't get it," he said. "Every time I checked, you were taking a rest, yet you chopped more wood than I did." To which the winning woodsman responded, "Didn't you notice? I was sharpening my ax when I sat down to rest." If you're feeling a bit dull today, perhaps you need to schedule some rest into your schedule so that you can get 'sharp' again.
Thirdly, it was a day to help others. Israelite employees had a compulsory rest day automatically written into their employment contracts. This helped others enjoy the blessings of rest.
Fourthly, the Sabbath was a day to declare truth. It was a silent witness to God's supremacy and gave the Israelites multiple witnessing opportunities. To their unbelieving neighbors it proclaimed, in very practical terms, the truth that God comes first.
This is an important paradigm or model for us today. From the very beginning of the church, Christians made the Lord's Day their appointed day for worship, rest, service, and witness. While avoiding the legalism that the Pharisees fell into, most of us can do a much better job of looking for ways to keep Sunday special.
The Israelites also promised to observe the "Sabbatical Year." Every seventh year, they were to let the land lie idle so that it might restore itself. To obey God in this way, they certainly needed to trust Him with their needs during the seventh year. It seems to me that obedience to God always involves trust. We cannot always see what's coming up, but if we are doing what God says, He will never disappoint us. Their commitment to commemorate the Sabbatical Year was a great step of faith and is a beautiful illustration of Matthew 6:33: "But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well."
Notice that they also canceled all debts in verse 31. They promised that every seven years, they would live out a renewed scale of values that people matter more than money. The keeping of the Sabbath and Sabbatical Years were ways of saying "no" to a life of maximum acquisition. My highest goal is not to make the most I can and then spend my life trying to keep everything that I have.
Vow #4: Support For God's Work
That leads to their fourth pledge: support for God's work in verses 32-39. The phrase "house of our God" is used nine times in this section and refers to the restored temple. The people were promising to follow God's priorities by submitting to Him, by separating from the world, by keeping the Sabbath, and by supporting the work of God. Verse 39 sums up their commitment: "We will not neglect the house of our God."
The temple in Jerusalem stood at the heart of the country's religious, moral and spiritual life. In symbolic terms it proclaimed the presence and power of God among His people and the centrality of spiritual matters.
This passage covers an impressive series of promises to support God's work in a variety of different ways and gives us 7 insights into how our giving can support God's work today.
1. It was responsible giving. Look at verse 32 and verse 35 where the people say that "they assume responsibility…" They owned it and gave what they owned because they saw it as their privilege and their responsibility.
2. It was obedient giving. They didn't practice "impulse giving" but instead gave as an expression of practical obedience. Those who love Him will do what He says. They were "carrying out the commands to give" (32), as it "is written in the Law" (34, 36). God had been good to His people, and generosity was expected from them. There was nothing remotely optional about the support of God's work. Everyone was required to give in one form or another. This was yet another way to demonstrate that God came first in their lives.
3. It was systematic. There was nothing haphazard about their giving. Verse 32 says that they were to bring a third of a silver shekel each year. Verse 34 states that lots were drawn to determine when families were to bring a contribution of wood at set times each year. Verse 35 tells us that first fruits were brought each year. There was an orderliness about these offerings and a system that was followed. The people knew precisely what was expected of them. The New Testament teaches systematic giving as well in 1 Corinthians 16:2: "On the first day of every week, each one of you should set aside a sum of money in keeping with his income…"
4. It was proportionate. The reference to the wood offering suggests that many poor people in Israel had an opportunity to make a gift to the Lord that would demand time rather than money. The temple needed a regular supply of firewood to keep the sacrificial fires burning. Everyone, regardless of income, could gather wood and take it to the temple.


text:
Still no plans to take social network public.
Twitter is worth around £4.4 billion. That's the word from sources close to the social network's latest round of financing, with the service looking to raise more private funds to continue its work towards ad-supported world domination.
What makes that eye-watering figure even more impressive is that a similar financing round just seven months ago valued Twitter at £2.3 billion. That suggests its value has soared by almost half since the start of 2011.
Twitter still doesn't have plans to float on the stock market, unlike other big time players such as Zynga and Groupon.
Is Twitter really worth that much? Or are investors playing up the site's importance to raise more funds? Tell us what you think of this story now on our Facebook and Twitter pages.
Via WSJ

subset: commoncrawl


text:
What is the Value of Scouting?
How can 7-10 year-olds learn to be responsible? Scouting.
What does it take to get 7-10 year-olds excited and smiling about learning something new? Scouting.
Who do 7-10 year-olds like to be with a lot? Their friends in Scouting.
What is Scouting anyway? The best way in the world to engage 7-10 year-olds inside, outdoors, sometimes on their own, sometimes in a group but always learning to do their best in everything they try and do, while trying to help other people!
That's Scouting.
What is Beacon of Freedom?
The method that Spirit of Adventure uses to engage boys, girls and their families in Scouting through Cub Scout and Scouts BSA units, most times for the first time.
A number of dedicated volunteers and families help provide these adventures with the help of Den leaders across the Boston Region especially in Dorchester, Mattapan, Lynn, Lawrence, Chelsea, Roxbury, Jamaica Plain, etc.
- Send a Scout to Camp
- Support Scouting in their neighborhood
- Buy a Scout's uniform and supplies
Where We Need Help
Volunteers (young adults, family members, former Scouts) who love to help 7-10 year-olds explore and engage their world in new ways while achieving individual and group recognition.
Part-time paid Den leaders who might like working with 7-10 year-olds in weekly small (Dens) and medium (Packs) groups. Who are comfortable demonstrating, teaching, and laughing with the Scouts.
Submitted by Francisco Guzman, Cubmaster, Pack 109, Chelsea After a quick conversation with Chuck the other day, I felt compelled to put my thoughts in writing. I hope this will encourage others to remember the impact that our Outdoors program has on youth. Every year, during the last weekend in September, our Cub Scout pack goes … Continue reading "A Game with a Purpose…"Read More
Submitted by Komba Lamina, Beacon of Freedom District Executive A few weeks ago, we blogged about the decline in bowling clubs and how it relates to trends across America with far fewer people joining organized groups. The piece also mentioned that even though there are fewer bowling clubs, the number of people bowling has actually increased. … Continue reading Showcasing the Value of Scouting in Underserved CommunitiesRead More


text:
The Dean
Downtown Lansing, Walking Distance to Old Town, Bike Storage and much more!
Like what you see? It just takes a minute to fill out an application. Click the button to the right to be redirected to our online application.
About the Dean
The Dean is a charming building full of history. From the moment you walk in you will notice all the character starting with the marbled entry way to the high ceilings, cast iron tubs and hard wood floors. All of The Dean's 38 units have large windows, classic radiator heaters, and unique character and charm. Most units are unique in their floor plans because they were built with the intent of replicating a NYC loft. Centrally located with the Capital Building a few blocks to the North and Old Town a few blocks to the South; while still near the unique retail stores, dining, history, nightlife, athletics and cultural destinations, it really is a premiere downtown location. While still offering on-site laundry and bike storage, a beautiful courtyard with benches.
Types of Units: (Pricing Based off Sq. Ft.)
Studio & 1 Bath: $620 – $695
1 Bedroom & 1 Bath: $700 – $850
2 Bedroom & 1 Bath: $900-$1,100
3 Bedrooms & 1.5 Bathrooms: $1,750
Rooms & Interior
- High ceilings
- Hardwood floors
- Living room
- Walk-in closet
- Ceiling fans
Utilities & Extras
- Radiator heat
- Window-unit AC
- Parking available
- Laundry on-site
Kitchen & Bath
- Refrigerator
- Stove/oven
- Soaking tub
Lease Terms
- Heat included
- Trash removal included
- Water included
Building & Surroundings
- Secured entry
- Garden


text:
Vertical Garden is having a growing demand of today's world. Due to increase in world's population with more and more of construction going on everywhere, the natural gardens are shrinking up, and we are unable to breath fresh air. Everyone is asked to go out for a morning walk, to inhale fresh oxygen from gardens, as later, it may get exhausted by industries or vehicles. Now, most of us are familiar with vertical garden or green walls concept, which is becoming very popular. The name vertical garden is being given to it, as it is vertically erected on walls, and have flowers, plants or herbs grown in them. The name green walls is given, as it green the walls, or bring greenery close to you through your own walls.
We have been trying many efforts to go green by giving some restriction to new constructions so that they leave some space for greenery. After so many efforts, we recently came up with the concept of our Drip Irrigation kit, and we are now able to help grow greenery in balcony, terrace area or any other open area. With the success of this kit, we are now coming up with this kit, which will help you in keeping your wall area green. This concept is being used around the world from many years, but we have innovated it, using our drip irrigation system.
This kit is ready to use as have 3X4 frames for 12 pots. This can be installed in drawing rooms or living rooms which will give you a fresh air during the day time. Now, you can relax in your own house and have a fresh oxygen around you. However, we would recommend if you avoid sleeping with them at night, as we all know that plants intake carbon di oxide in day and give away oxygen, while at night time, they reverse their process. In order to make full use of this green wall or vertical garden at our home, we can plant herbs or salad leaves in them, which can be used as well.
In this kit, we are giving you the drip irrigation system, completely assembled, with drip laterals, fittings, drippers etc., so that you just need to add your water outlet sourcing to the kit inlet. You now need to time your tap for 10 minutes, as within 10 minutes, this unit will give water to all the plants as required. You can do this twice a day if needed. Since the pots are of a good size, you can easily add urea or top soil for better plantation. This kit saves your precious water, time and gives back its fresh oxygen, aroma, and a blissful feeling to be in love with nature.
This vertical garden kit will help us all to contribute to the world in a fight against global warming and filling up the ozone hole. We are sure that everyone pledge to plant at least one plant or tree and further advise two more people to do so, the global warming will have to accept defeat.
Nature was never so close before.


text:
- Our Union
- Campaigns & Actions
- Janus v AFSCME What's at Stake?
- Photos
- calendar
- Become A CAT
- Facts at your Fingertips
- Talking Papers
- Solidarity
- Past campaigns and actions
- Newsstand
- Resources
- Contract & Bargaining
Negotiations 2015 Updates
Contract Negotiation Update: Tentative Agreement Reached
Tentative Agreement Reached:
For the past six months, our clerical bargaining committee repeatedly heard from the University administration that they had budgeted only 0.5% for raises for clerical workers, that two weeks of paid parental leave was sufficient for our families, and that they weren't interested in discussing, much less addressing any of our other priority issues. Finally, yesterday brought a breakthrough.
Management's committee came to the table yesterday, December 10 with proposals to address our top priorities and our need for raises and respect. Yesterday afternoon, our clerical bargaining committee reached a tentative agreement with the U of MN, and we are recommending approval by our membership.
Highlights of the agreement include:
- Year One: 1.5% general increase effective June 29, 2015
- Year Two: 1.5% general increase for those within the salary range and a 2% general increase for those at the range maximum, effective June 13, 2016
- A $15 minimum wage for all clerical positions, effective June 29, 2015
- Six weeks of paid parental leave for birth mothers
- Memorandum of Understanding to address workplace bullying
- No insurance plan changes for 2016 or 2017. No premium increases for health insurance and minimal premium increases in dental insurance for 2016.
Go to https://youtu.be/EFsVHfdbslY for a video update from our bargaining committee.
Informational meetings:
We will be holding informational sessions throughout the University over the noon hour beginning next week to discuss the terms of the agreement in greater detail. An email will be sent out once the schedule is finalized.
Voting on the agreement:
Paper ballots on whether to accept the tentative agreement or to reject the agreement and authorize a strike will be sent to the home addresses of members. Fee payers are not allowed by law to vote on the agreement. If you are a fee payer and would like to become a member of our union and to vote on the agreement, please email firstname.lastname@example.com or call 612-379-3918 and a membership card will be brought to you.
This agreement was reached due to the dedicated and ongoing actions of our members; our unified contract campaign with Teamsters 320, AFSCME Locals 3937, 3801, and 3260; the solidarity from faculty, students, and non-unionized staff at the University; and our community and union allies around the state.
We are proud of this agreement, and believe it begins to close the gap between the haves and have nots at the University, but we know there is still work to be done. We rededicate ourselves to the ongoing effort to make this a University where all workers, not just those at the top, are able to make real economic progress.
Negotiation Update #7 - U still has not moved on our priority issues
On Tuesday, September 29, our bargaining team met with management for the seventh round of negotiations. Our members joined the negotiations session to give their personal testimonies in support of our top four negotiation priorities: 1} dignified wages; 2} parental leave equity; 3} restoration of the Regent's Scholarship; and 4} addressing workplace bullying. We left the bargaining table with one small agreement but did not move further on other negotiations and are now moving to mediation.
On Tuesday, August 25, our bargaining team met with management for the sixth round of negotiations. Management came into bargaining today & once again made no moves on wages & indicated that they have no interest in agreeing to any of our contract proposals. They specifically said, "the contract as it stands works for management" and they're only interested in housekeeping issues and not interested in "extraneous" proposals.
Of course, none of our proposals are in the least bit "extraneous" but rather of critical importance to our members. When we argued for our proposals management grew frustrated & abruptly ended the meeting. It is clear that the U is unwilling to move without significant pressure from our membership. It is essential that we increase pressure on Management in the weeks ahead. Please look for emails, at our website & Facebook for info on upcoming actions. We need to use all avenues at our disposal. We will be filing for mediation & return to bargaining at the end of September. We need to make it clear to Management that sweeping these vital issues under the rug is the epitome of POOR HOUSEKEEPING.
If you haven't done so, please add your name to an email petition to Administration with our message: we can't survive--let alone thrive--on 0.375%.
Please share this update and video with your coworkers and encourage them to stay informed on negotiations. As we continue bargaining, it's more important than ever for unionized workers to support each other and stand in solidarity so that we can win the respect and raises we need and deserve.
Update #5 - August 13, 2015
On Thursday, August 13, our bargaining team met with management for the fifth round of negotiations. The University said no to everything. They found different ways to say no to our contract language proposals.
We focused on contract language proposals regarding parental leave, Regent's Scholarship, bullying and job security.
Parental Leave: The negotiating team pointed out the inequities among employee groups: 2 weeks of leave for Union and Civil Service employees and the 6 weeks for P&A and Faculty. The Administration said that the 2 weeks of leave in our contract is enough to take care of families.
Regent's Scholarship: Our proposal calls for the University to reinstate the Regent's Scholarship to full coverage regardless of degree being pursued. Not only would this not cost the University anything, it would be a revenue boost as we would pay for books and fees.
Job security: Our proposal calls on the University to reduce the number of months a person serves probation. Under our proposal when an employee receives a promotion or demotion, the number of months on probation would go from 6 months down to 3 months. When an employee comes off the layoff list, probation would drop to 2 months. New employee probation would stay at 6 months.
Bullying: According to the Administration, what one person thinks or feels is bullying, might not really be considered bullying. We feel that when a report of bullying is made, the University fails to follow through. We are seeking accountability; we are looking for follow through on the part of the University.
The negotiating team requested to have contract language to address and have a proper process to deal with bullying from supervisors. The University was not interested negotiating bullying language and responded with "there is no official definition of bullying." Hennepin County, the state of Minnesota and local school districts ALL have a definition for bullying.
The University Administration needs to continue hearing from clerical workers that 0.375% is not an acceptable wage increase. Thanks to everybody who sent messages to President Kaler, Vice President Brown, and Regents Chair Johnson. We believe that the administration increased their proposal because of these emails, and will put more money on the table if they continue to hear from us.
If you haven't done so, please add your name to an email petition to Administration with our message: we can't survive--let alone thrive--on 0.375%.
Our next round of bargaining will be on August 25. Please share this update and video with your coworkers and encourage them to stay informed on negotiations. As we continue bargaining, it's more important than ever for unionized workers to support each other and stand in solidarity so that we can win the respect and raises we need and deserve.
On Tuesday, July 21, the University upped their wage proposal to 0.375% each year. This adds about 2.5 cents/hour per worker to the original proposal of 4.9 cents/hour per worker. This is outrageous! The U negotiator also made clear that they don't intend to discuss or move on wages at the next bargaining session on August 13.
The University Administration needs to continue hearing from clerical workers that 0.375% is not an acceptable wage increase. Thanks to everybody who sent messages to President Kaler, VP Cathy Brown, and Chair Johnson earlier this week. We believe that the administration increased their proposal because of these emails, and will put more money on the table if they continue to hear from us.
If you haven't done so, please add your name to an email petition to Administration with our message: we can't survive--let alone thrive--on 0.375%.
On Thursday, July 9th, we heard the University's opening wage and health insurance proposals.
The Administration proposed a general (also known as across-the-board) increase of 0.25% per year. A 0.25% raise for our 1621 clerical workers is worth $158,311 a year. To put that in context, over 220 administrators have salaries higher than what the U wants to spend on raises for 1600 people. Even the University's negotiator acknowledged, when making this proposal that, "the across-the-board proposal is not very good."
Our negotiating committee told the administration's committee what our priorities are, but it's important that the administration hear from clerical workers in all areas of the University. If you think the 0.25% across-the-board increase is unacceptable, please add your name to an email petition calling upon the administration to show respect for frontline staff and provide real raises. We are back in bargaining on Tuesday afternoon, so please sign your name today.
The administration continues to state that they are including our step increase, which we receive on our anniversary dates and which average 2%, into their budget formulations for raises. However, they do not include the significantly greater pension contributions for P&A employees into their budget formulations. P&A employees receive 10-13% biweekly contributions for their pensions (calculated at their much higher salaries), while unionized and civil service workers receive 5.5% employer contributions. The administration says it's only fair to take step increases into account when considering raises, but then refuses to take pension contributions into account. This is just one more example of the University administration creating two Universities - one where those at the top move further ahead, while those at the middle and bottom fall further behind.
We believe that the vast majority of faculty and staff at the University want one University that works for everybody. Our union's proposals in contract negotiations, which we presented to the administration in early June reflect that perspective. Key proposals include:
5% cost of living increases each year of the contract
A $15 minimum starting wage for all positions
Raising the top of the pay scale
Full restoration of the Regents Scholarship, regardless of degree status
Six weeks paid parental leave, regardless of the parent's gender
When will clerical workers get raises?
AFSCME members receive two types of salary increases: an automatic step increase and the negotiated across-the-board increase. The step increase for clerical workers is a 2% increase that is received automatically on your anniversary date until you reach the top of the pay scale. The intention of the step increase is to recognize and reward workers for the increased skills and ability you develop each year on the job. Steps are contractually guaranteed and will continue to be paid while negotiations take place. If you do not receive your step on your anniversary date, please let us know.
Unionized workers negotiate the amount of our across-the-board raises (or general increase), rather than having raises determined and imposed from above (which is what happens with faculty, P&A and Civil Service staff). The upside of this is that we can and do push for more than what is merely budgeted. The challenge is that the U generally won't even talk about wages until the state allocation has been determined and the budget has been ratified by the Board of Regents (which takes place in June). Negotiations began in June, and we didn't receive the University's opening wage and insurance proposals until July 9. We are scheduled to return to the table on Tuesday, July 21; we have bargaining dates scheduled through August and are currently working to schedule dates for September. Contract negotiations have typically culminated in late September or October.
We will receive our general (or across-the-board) wage increases once our new contract has been fully negotiated and voted on by our membership. Raises will then be retroactive to the beginning data of the contract (July 1). Once the contract has been agreed upon by our members and the Board of Regents, people will receive back-pay for the salary increases from July 1 to whatever the ratification date is.
During this round, the University did not respond on wages or benefits. They said they won't give us an economic proposal until late this month after the regents meet. They did respond to our language proposals however and the answer was no to each and every one. On parental leave, the employer said that everyone gets two weeks paid leave, and that additional time paid is different for employee groups. However, ours is paid out of sick leave if we have it. For P&A, the additional four weeks is paid by the University.
On several issues such as AFSCME members being replaced by students or other workers, bullying, and time for religious holidays, managers said they want to know what's going on, however they refused to agree to a contractual process to deal with those very issues.
Please come to one of our informational meetings this week to learn more. Check our website for meetings for times and locations. It's clear from today that management has little respect for our needs. That's all the more reason to support each other and stand in solidarity. That's the only way we'll make progress towards the respect and raises we need and deserve.We also ask you to be part of the negotiations process.
Negotiations for the 2015-2017 contract between AFSCME 3800/3801 and the University of Minnesota formally opened on June 3, 2015. Our union committee presented our proposals, which were determined by surveying clerical workers system-wide regarding needs, issues, and priorities. The proposals were then finalized and ratified by the Clerical Assembly - an elected committee of over 100 clerical workers statewide. Our message to the University administration was simple: we need raises and respect; we bargain for our families; and we deserve equity in benefits with other employee groups. Key proposals include:
- 5% cost of living increases each year of the contract
- A $15 minimum starting wage for all positions
- Raising the top of the pay scale
- Full restoration of the Regents Scholarship, regardless of degree status
- Six weeks paid parental leave, regardless of the parent's gender
Please watch a video summary of negotiations. Below view copies of our opening proposal as well as the University administration's opening proposal.
The University proposals were minimal. They have repeatedly told us that they are not willing to talk about financial issues (wages, health care, etc.) until after the Board of Regents finalize the budget on June 24.
We are working closely with Teamsters and the other AFSCME locals on campus to push the University to prioritize the economic needs of frontline staff. We will be testifying at the Board of Regents Public Hearing on the Budget on June 12 from 12:30 to 1:30, and invite you to join us.
We also ask you to be part of the negotiations process. Please share this update and video with your coworkers. Members are encouraged to join the Clerical Assembly to be part of the strategic decision-making. Be a part of organizing for Raises and Respect! To join the Assembly or for more information, contact President Cherrene Horazuk or Organizer Marie Dino.


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Lighting and Grip Equipment
Lights are important to help set the mood in every scene
Lighting is something that is often an issue on an independent film. I have seen many films that mixed lighting colors because they did not either have a real DP or a real Gaffer. You need to have your Gaffer and DP speak with your director about lighting prior to shooting to make sure you are getting the correct lighting instruments for the job.
Tungsten lights are orange in color and are used for interior lighting situations.
HMI (Hydragyrum Medium-Arc Iode)
These lights are blue in color and are used in daylight situations. They put off a great amount of light too.
If you walk into a room with a DP and the lights in the ceiling are fluorescent, most of them will cringe because of the light color put out by this type of bulb. There are fluorescent fixtures used in the film industry that are properly balanced to the light color you will need. The most well-known company which makes and invented these is called Kino Flo.
LED (light-emiting diode)
These use the least amount of power and are the coolest to the touch of all of the lights listed above. Some larger sizes are not available as of yet as they are still in development. LED's can come in either daylight or indoor balanced colors.


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Last night I joined a couple hundred ladies for a short "women's conference" at my church. I really didn't want to be there—I'm still grading papers, even at the end of spring break, laundry is undone and the house is a shambles—but the title was "Mary or Martha? Responding to Christ in Your Life." I had … Continue reading Warm Fruit Soup and The Better Part
Month: March 2013


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Document Type: Short Communication
1 Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
2 Green Templeton College, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
Commentaries Published on this Paper
Authors' Response to the Commentaries
Main Subjects
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Mexico was the only high growth (emerging) country included in the study, showing an 18.7% cost advantage over the United States in 2014. With little change in the value of the Mexican peso over a four- year period, Mexico's cost advantage relative to the United States has been holding steady.
Comparing major industries, Mexico ranks first among the 10 countries in all sectors but sees its greatest cost advantage relative to the U.S. baseline in the Corporate Services subsector, with costs 46% lower than in the United States. Labor costs for both entry-level admin and customer service employees, as well as finance professionals, are significant in this subsector.


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Field Guide spent a year roaming woods, ranches and mountains examining the plight of wolves and what it means to live with them. Can ranchers coexist with wolves when livestock turn up dead? Will wolves bring tourists to Oregon as they have in Yellowstone? There are no easy answers. Yet, as their numbers increase, wolves themselves are forcing the hands of conservationists, ranchers and wildlife managers.
First Broadcast: 2010
Producer: Ed Jahn
Videographer: Nicholas Fisher
Videographer: Todd Sonflieth
Editor: Bruce Barrow
Share your views on wolves in Oregon
How do you feel about wolves? Are wolves good or bad for Oregon? Read more and share your comments at the Ecotrope blog.
More Information
Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife
- Resource for wolf news and information from Oregon Dept. of Fish and Wildlife.
- Online: DFW.state.or.us/wolves/
Oregon Wild
- Oregon wilderness/wildlife conservation group.
- Online: OregonWild.org
Defenders of Wildlife
- National wolf conservation group.
- Online: Defenders.org
Predator Defense
- Eugene based predator Conservation group.
- Online: PredatorDefense.org/
Wallowa County Stockgrowers Association
- Rancher organization in Eastern Oregon with chronology of wolf events & news from a ranching perspective.
- Online: WallowaCountyStockgrowers.org
Oregon Cattlemen's Association
- Rancher-based Wolf Advisory group.
- Online: OrCattle.com/wolf-task-force


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Time Warner Cable Loses Video Subscribers but Adds Broadband Customers
Time Warner Cable, the second-largest U.S. cable-TV operator, lost 126,000 cable subscribers in the third quarter as customers defected to Verizon's FiOS, AT&T's U-verse and DirecTV, the company and analysts said today. Analysts had predicted a loss of 113,000, according to data compiled by Bloomberg.
DirecTV's "Sunday Ticket" promotion, which gave new customers a free subscription to access all Sunday National Football League games during the year, likely accelerated Time Warner Cable's video decline, according to Vijay Jayant, an analyst at ISI Group.
Even as Verizon and AT&T take video customers away, however, Time Warner Cable is successfully fighting them in web-access business.
Its 105,000 net broadband-customer gain -- 89,000 residential clients and 16,000 business customers -- is four times more than AT&T and Verizon added this quarter combined, a sign that there is "unquenchable consumer thirst" for Time Warner Cable's product, Time Warner CEO Glenn Britt said on a conference call today. Verizon added about 20,000 broadband customers and AT&T gained 3,000.
Mr. Britt is positioning Time Warner Cable to be an internet provider first and a video operator second, according to Craig Moffett, an analyst at Sanford C. Bernstein & Co. "Broadband is Britt's anchor product now," Mr. Moffett said. "The cable operators are running away from AT&T and Verizon in the broadband business, which has become the engine that 's carrying Time Warner Cable."
Fourth-quarter video and broadband net additions are trending similar to a year ago, Time Warner Cable Chief Financial Officer Irene Esteves said on the conference call. Voice-line additions are trending lower, she said.
Overall customers -- video, phone and broadband for corporations and households -- fell by 16,000 in the quarter. "The aggregate customer number is one investors watch, and a negative number may cause the stock to be weak again," said Laura Martin, a Needham & Co. analyst.
Shares in the company fell the most in almost 18 months after it reported third-quarter profit that missed analysts' estimates because of its video-customer losses. But investors may be selling today partly as a protest to the company's decision to slow repurchases, said Amy Yong, an analyst at Macquarie Securities.
To fuel demand for its video product, the company introduced an application this year that lets people watch live programming on Apple's iPad as long as they are at home. Time Warner Cable plans to make the app available on other devices, Mr. Britt said on today's call.
The devices include Android-based smartphones and tablets, game consoles, internet-connected TVs and personal computers, according to spokesman Justin Venech.
-- Bloomberg News --


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