Milk

I haven't purchased milk for a very long time in Taiwan, but today I bought a quart of low fat milk and it cost me nearly 6 US dollars!!!!

What is the price of a quart (liter) of milk where you live?

This is crazy insane...I think I'll stick with my Nutrilite Cal Mag tablets...sad to say, much cheaper.

A Pregnant Man?

I saw this article about some man being pregnant and some aren't sure if it's a hoax or not. I'm going to put my ten cents in...and put my beliefs on the side for a moment (because I know some of y'all will send hate mail. Leave your hate mail at your house).

Turns out that this man is transgender, meaning he(she) was once a woman and had hormone therapy and breast reconstuction to become a man. Well, he never had reproductive organ reconstruction to change gender. So, the fact that this "man" is (or is not) carrying a child is conceivable...and this is why...

He is still a woman! Um, hello! You can change your behavior, and the way you look on the outside, and think however you want, but fact is you are still physically a woman as defined by your reproductive system.

Every single commenter on this article failed to pick up on this fact.

The person having this baby said, "Our situation sparks legal, political, and social unknowns." How so? Women have babies everday and no unknowns are sparked. The fact no matter what your mind tells you, reproductively you are female and therefore, most likely have the ability to conceive. I mean, really, it's not rocket science.

Further, the man states, "But our situation ultimately will ask everyone to embrace the gamut of human possibility and to define for themselves what is normal."
To define what is normal...dude! You still have a female reproductive system!!! Again, it is normal for a female reproductive system to carry and birth a baby. Seriously, do you have any concept of the function of male and female reproduction systems. I mean, I nearly failed biology, but even I know better...Come on!

Now, please, change your reproductive organs to that of a male's, get pregnant, then call me...

Until then, you have only proven the fact that only women are carriers and givers of human life.

The 90 Day Mark...

aahh....

Good Judge v. Bad Judge

I stumbled across this article, as I attempted to catch up on US news:

Remy Ma Asks Fans to Write to Her Judge
March 29, 2008, 8:05 AM EST
NEW YORK (AP) -- Grammy-nominated rapper Remy Ma hopes her fan base will count in the courtroom when she is to be sentenced for shooting a woman outside a nightclub.

A statement posted prominently on Remy Ma's MySpace page asks visitors to write letters about how the rapper and her music have "positively affected you, influenced you, inspired you, etc. ... in hopes that the judge will be lenient."

It provides a special e-mail address for anyone inclined to do so.

Remy Ma is being held without bail until her sentencing, set for April 23. She faces up to 25 years in prison.

Full Story Here.


**********************************************
Now, Ma has a good, just judge, he/she will give her the full sentence. Her actions have consequences. A bad judge would have pity and be influenced by the "positive influence" she has made in the lives of others, and give her a lighter sentence.

Justice must be given to those who break the law. And it will be the same way on judgement day after we die. If we are found to have broken God's law, when we die, we will be judged accordingly. And if God is a good, just judge, He will punish us, as we deserve to be. That punishment is hell.

You won't be able to plead your case to God once you die. You don't get a second chance. Imagine you murdered someone, and you are brought before the judge and say, "I only murdered one person and I did all these other good things: I gave money to charity, I helped old people, etc, etc)." Now, imagine that you told a lie and God punishes you with the same punishment as a murderer. And you say, "But I only told ONE lie!" How many lies, no matter how big or small, does it take to make you a liar? You break God's law one time, you'll stand accused.

And nothing you can do or say will get you out of judgement.

But the good, just judge is also loving and merciful and that's where Jesus Christ comes in. God sent His one and only Son to take the punishment for you and me. Jesus walks into the courtroom and tells the judge He will do the time for all of our crimes: past, present and future.

As He sacrificed Himself for us, He was beatened, tortured, humiliated and died a horrible death upon a cross and rose three days later, so that we might be in a right relationship with God.

You might think, well, now what? Now, you get alone and just talk to God. Repent, as God for forgiveness for all your sins and place your trust in Jesus Christ. Then read your Bible and obey the Word of God. And God will change you from the inside, out.

Don't Leave It On the Desk

There was a certain Professor of Religion named Dr. Christianson, a studious man who taught at a small college in the western United States . Dr. Christianson taught the required survey course in Christianity at this particular institution. Every student was required to take this course their freshman year, regardless of his or her major. Although Dr. Christianson tried hard to communicate the essence of the gospel in his class, he found that most of his students looked upon the course as nothing but required drudgery. Despite his best efforts, most students refused to take Christianity seriously.
This year, Dr. Christianson had a special student named Steve. Steve was only a freshman, but was studying with the intent of going onto seminary for the ministry. Steve was popular, he was well liked, and he was an imposing physical specimen. He was now the starting center on the school football team, and was the best student in the professor's class.
One day, Dr. Christianson asked Steve to stay after class so he could talk with him. "How many push-ups can you do?" Steve said, "I do about 200 every night." "200? That's pretty good, Steve," Dr. Christianson said. "Do you think you could do 300?" Steve replied, "I don't know.... I've never done 300 at a time" "Do you think you could?" again asked Dr. Christianson. "Well, I can try," said Steve. "Can you do 300 in sets of 10? I have a class project in mind and I need you to do about 300 push-ups in sets of ten for this to work. Can you do it? I
need you to tell me you can do it," said the professor. Steve said, "Well... I think I can...yeah, I can do it." Dr. Christianson said, "Good! I need you to do this on Friday. Let me explain what I have in mind."
Friday came and Steve got to class early and sat in the front of the room. When class started, the professor pulled out a big box of donuts. No, these weren't the normal kinds of donuts, they were the extra fancy BIG kind, with cream centers and frosting swirls. Everyone was pretty excited it was Friday, the last class of the day, and they were going to get an early start on the weekend with a party in Dr.Christianson's class. Dr. Christianson went to the first girl in the first row and asked, "Cynthia, do you want to have one of these donuts?" Cynthia said, "Yes." Dr. Christianson then turned to Steve and asked, "Steve, would you do ten
push-ups so that Cynthia can have a donut?" "Sure!" Steve jumped down from his desk to do a quick ten. Then Steve again sat in his desk. Dr. Christianson put a donut on Cynthia's desk.
Dr. Christianson then went to Joe, the next person, and asked, "Joe, do you want a donut?" Joe said, "Yes." Dr. Christianson asked, "Steve would you do ten push-ups so Joe can have a donut?" Steve did ten push-ups, Joe got a donut. And so it went, down the first aisle, Steve did ten push-ups for every person before they got their donut. Walking down the second aisle, Dr. Christianson came to Scott. Scott was on the basketball team, and in as good condition as Steve. He was very popular and never lacking for female companionship. When the professor asked, "Scott do you want a donut?" Scott's reply was, "Well, can I do my own push-ups?" Dr. Christianson said, "No, Steve has to do them." Then Scott said, "Well, I don't want one then." Dr. Christianson shrugged and then turned to Steve and asked, "Steve, would you do ten push-u ps so Scott can have a donut he doesn't want?" With perfect obedience Steve started to do ten push-ups. Scott said, "HEY! I said I didn't want one!" > Dr. Christianson said, "Look!, this is my classroom, my class, my desks, and these are my donuts. Just leave it on the desk if you don't want it." And he put a donut on Scott's desk.
Now by this time, Steve had begun to slow down a little. He just stayed on the floor between sets because it took too much effort to be getting up and down. You could start to see a little perspiration coming out around his brow. Dr. Christianson started down the third row. Now the students were beginning to get a little angry. Dr. Christianson asked Jenny, "Jenny, do you want a donut?" Sternly, Jenny said, "No." Then Dr. Christianson asked Steve, "Steve, would you do ten more push-ups so Jenny can have a donut that she doesn't want?" Steve did ten....Jenny got a donut.
By now, a growing sense of uneasiness filled the room. The students were beginning to say, "No!" and there were all these uneaten donuts on the desks. Steve also had to really put forth a lot of extra effort to get these
push-ups done for each donut. There began to be a small pool of sweat on the floor beneath his face, his arms and brow were beginning to get red because of the physical effort involved. Dr. Christianson asked Robert, who was the most vocal unbeliever in the class, to watch Steve do each push up to make sure he did the full ten
push-ups in a set because he couldn't bear to watch all of Steve's work for all of those uneaten donuts. He sent Robert over to where Steve was so Robert could count the set and watch Steve closely.
Dr. Christianson started down the fourth row. During his class, however, some students from other classes had wandered in and sat down on the steps along the radiators that ran down the sides of the room. When the professor realized this, he did a quick count and saw that now there were 34 students in the room. He started to worry if Steve would be able to make it. Dr. Christianson went on to the next person and the next and the next. Near the end of that row, Steve was really having a rough time. He was taking a lot more time to complete each set. Steve asked Dr. Christianson, "Do I have to make my nose touch on each one?" Dr. Christianson thought for a moment, "Well, they're your push-ups. You are in charge now. You can do them any way that you want." And Dr. Christianson went on.
A few moments later, Jason, a recent transfer student, came to the room and was about to come in when all the students yelled in one voice, "NO! Don't come in! Stay out!" Jason didn't know what was going on. Steve picked up his head and said, "No, let him come." Professor Christianson said, "You realize that if Jason comes in you will have to do ten push-ups for him?" Steve said, "Yes, let him come in. Give him a donut." Dr. Christianson said, "Okay, Steve, I'll let you get Jason's out of the way right now. Jason, do you want a donut?" Jason, new to the room, hardly knew what was going on. "Yes," he said, "give me a donut." "Steve, will you do ten push-ups so that Jason can have a donut?" Steve did ten push-ups very slowly and with great effort. Jason, bewildered,
was handed a donut and sat down.
Dr Christianson finished the fourth row, and then started on those visitors seated by the heaters. Steve's arms were now shaking with each push-up in a struggle to lift himself against the force of gravity. By this time sweat was profusely dropping off of his face, there was no sound except his heavy breathing; there was not a dry eye in the room. The very last two students in the room were two young women, both cheerleaders, and very popular. Dr. Christianson went to Linda, the second to last, and asked, "Linda, do you want a doughnut?" > Linda said, very sadly, "No, thank you." Professor Christianson quietly asked, "Steve, would you do ten push-ups so that Linda can have a donut she doesn't want?" Grunting from the effort, Steve did ten very slow push-ups for Linda.
Then Dr. Christianson turned to the last girl, Susan. "Susan, do you want a donut?" Susan, with tears flowing down her face, began to cry. "Dr. Christianson, why can't I help him?" Dr Christianson, with tears of his own, said, "No, Steve has to do it alone; I have given him this task and he is in charge of seeing that
everyone has an opportunity for a donut whether they want it or not. When I decided to have a party this last day of class, I looked at my grade book. Steve here is the only student with a perfect grade. Everyone else has
failed a test, skipped class, or offered me inferior work. Steve told me that in football practice, when a player messes up he must do push-ups. I told Steve that none of you could come to my party unless he paid the price
by doing your push ups. He and I made a deal for your sakes."
"Steve, would you do ten push-ups so Susan can have a donut?" As Steve very slowly finished his last push-up, with the understanding that he had accomplished all that was required of him, having done 350 push-ups, his arms buckled beneath him and he fell to the floor.
Dr. Christianson turned to the room and said, "And so it was, that our Savior, Jesus Christ, on the cross, plead to the Father, 'Into thy hands I commend my spirit.' With the understanding that He had done everything that was required of Him, He yielded up His life. And like some of those in this room, many of us leave the gift on the desk, uneaten. "
Two students helped Steve up off the floor and to a seat, physically exhausted, but wearing a thin smile.
"Well done, good and faithful servant," said the professor, adding, "Not all sermons are preached in words."
Turning to his class, the professor said, "My wish is that you might understand and fully comprehend all the riches of grace and mercy that have been given to you through the sacrifice of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. He spared not only His Begotten Son, but gave Him up for us all, for the whole Church, now and forever. Whether or not we choose to accept His gift to us, the price has been paid." "Wouldn't you be foolish and ungrateful to leave it lying on the desk?"

I'm Available...

this summer to come speak/do a presentation about Taiwan and my experience or teach a basic introduction to Chinese class at your school or church. I'd request an honorarium, as this would be my only income during the summer months. My tentative travel plans include New York City (and perhaps Rochester), NY; Tulsa, OK; and West Lafayette, IN.


Since it makes no sense to find a job for 2 months, I will be doing small jobs here and there.

Also, if you want your house cleaned...call me!

I am an IBO in Taiwan and will become one in the States this summer. If you're interested in becoming an Independent Business Owner, drop me a line and we'll chat.

Ah...making preparations...

Jesus Is Still Doing Miracles Today....

So, I left for Kaohsiung at 6:30 am today. I went to the AIT and they wouldn't notarize any of my documents. They did however, give me an affidavit for the unnotarized letter from Taiwan. This is the letter that no one would notarize. I took it to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs office and hoped they would attest it with the affidavit. Well, they wouldn't...

And the Tainan Court wouldn't notarize it without the person who signed it present...and that wasn't going to happen.

I went to the Kaohsiung Court and tried. After being told "no" several times. A judge came to talk with me. I told her that my new job was on the line. If I didn't have this paper notarized, then I will not be able to get a work permit in the UAE...and the outcome of that: I'd lose the job.

Well, I believe that the Lord softened this judge's heart, because SHE NOTARIZED IT!!! She said that really the author of the letter should be present, however, since the school was a government school, she'd help me out.

All the government officials had told me it's impossible for me to have the document notarized.

So, I give all glory to God for it!!!

And now, I'm on my way to UAE...

after I get the US documents notarized in the US...

I really need to stop getting upset over these things and I need to learn to trust God more...I trust God in the end, however, I can't always see how it's going to work out, especially when I meet dead end after dead end. I repent of my lack of trust and ask God to change my heart (and mind) in this area.

Why Can't Taiwan Ever Be Nice to Me?

Just because I was offered the teaching position, doesn't mean it's going to be easy to get. I've run into a number of problems with notarizations and attesting documents in Taiwan.

I will take tomorrow morning off and go to Kaohsiung to the American Institute in Taiwan (because we don't have an embassy or consular) and the Bureau of Consular Affairs (Taiwan) to attempt to get something done.

I need Jesus. Really bad.

Easter Witnessing

I'm constantly amazed how much small children understand. I was the teacher to share the true meaning behind Easter. I told them about Jesus' life (continuing from Christmas), His death and His resurrection. My 5 year olds became very curious about Jesus and God. They started to ask very detailed questions about Jesus being God and how do people know. I taught them about Old Testament prophesy, how God is so holy and righteous that He can NOT lie, and therefore, what He told people hundreds of years before Jesus was born, had to come true.

The students also ask me why I believe in Jesus. I got to tell them a modified version of my testamony (due to their age). I told them how I was a really bad person and that I couldn't stop doing bad things. And in fact, I hated God. But one day, I knew that if I died, I would be in a lot of trouble (worse than getting in trouble at school). I knew that I needed someone to help me to get out of trouble. One day, someone told me about Jesus and how He took the punishment for me so that I didn't have to. And I knew from that day on that Jesus really loved me because He took my punishment and I didn't have to do anything in return. And from then on, I loved Him back.

After class, one of my students, who is not a Christian, began to ask how can someone know that God exists. I took her to the window and showed her the building across the street. I asked her how does she know the building is real. She said because she can see it. Then I asked her, how did it get there? She said someone made it. I asked her if she knew who made it and she said no, just someone to makes buildings. I asked if she believes that a someone made the building, eventhough, she couldn't see the person who did. She replied, "yes." Then I pointed to the tree across the street. I asked her how did it get there. She said someone made it. I told her while I could plant that tree and put it in that spot, someone had to think of what a tree would look like and make the first one. In the same way, someone had to think of flowers would look like as well as people. I continued telling her that we can't see the one that thought of how these things would look, but we know He exists.

She told me she understood this. And the Chinese teacher would also explain it to her in her language to make sure she did. And without mentioning the name of Jesus, the little girl turned to me and said, "I love Jesus!" and gave me a big hug. It touched my heart so much. (I know that another teacher and myself has been her only exposure to Christ).

Book Recommendation

If you've never read the Bible, don't believe it's true, or aren't sure, pick up the book "The Stranger on the Road to Emmaus" by John R. Cross. I rarely endorse books because of all the junk out there. However, this one is worth the time to read (which doesn't take that much time at all). This is from the back cover of the book:

"Wars have been fought in its name, scandals have been precipitated by it, politics shape and reshaped at its word. Theologians have both defended and reviled it. Skeptics have done the same. If you are a typical member of the human race, you have often been perplexed by all the "fuss" surrounding the Bible. The question remains, "What does it really say?"

Here is a book that explains the greatest of Bible themes clearly and logically. Rather than focusing on one part - and missing the whole - the author chronologically binds toghether the entire text into one great universal drama, looking at events from the perspective of those who experienced history in the making. The results are sometimes comical, sometimes fightening - but always true to the intent of the text.

When you are done reading it, you may find yourself believing "the Book" like you never have before. Or you may decide not to. The author's objective approach leaves that decision up to you."

So, I've Been Thinking...

Other than the obvious answer that it was Jesus' time and Scripture must be fulfilled...

If the Jewish judicial system couldn't give a death sentence (as only the Roman court could), why were the Pharisees allowed to crucify Jesus? Although Pilate washed his hands clean of their actions and petitions, why didn't he stop them from murdering Christ? Wouldn't the Pharisees, who are also under Roman law, be seen as attempting murder, and therefore, be arrested and tried for it?

But, maybe, the obvious is the only answer...

KMT Party Wins the Presidential Election

Ma won the election yesterday. Many have said that what the Chinese did in Tibet last week was a warning for Taiwanese not to vote for the DDP. The message was if you vote for the DDP party (which is in favor of an independent Taiwan), we will squash you, too.

The victory for the KMT party does not mean that they are actually liked. (They are pro-China). From my understanding, as told by Taiwanese people, Taiwanese were just fed up with all the scandal that revolved around the current president from the DDP party.

I think this is democracy at it's best. You don't like your government officials, so when elections come up, give the power to another party. Unlike the U.S., Taiwan is bipartisan. There's no room for an independent/3rd candidate to run. (Although, we know that an independent/3rd party would probably never win...Nadar, Perot, etc...but the point is, they CAN run).

Kim asked about the elections. Well, I said it was insane as a result of their "rallies." It was like unorganized, wild primary election victory parties in the streets. People rode upon the blue trucks screaming as if they were pleading with someone not to kill them. High, high emotions.

It also took me 30 minutes to go 5 blocks on my motorcycle. I almost go hit and almost hit others over 10 times. It was really dangerous. People lined the streets with their flags and banners, but there was no "crowd control." Normal people riding motorcycles would cut others off so they could drive and high-five others standing on the sidelines. People from the sidelines would jet into the street to high-five motorists as they passed by.

Dangerous. Dangerous. Dangerous.

But this is Taiwan...Doing dangerous things is nothing new here.

Easter at School Tomorrow...and Do We Really Know It All?

I was told by my co-worker not to make our Easter lesson a missionary lesson. When I asked what did he mean by that, he responded, "Don't tell the kids that Jesus is God." Hmm...now what is the purpose of Easter? We remember that Jesus rose from the dead, fullfiling prophesy that He is the Messiah and God made flesh. Therefore, Jesus is God.

What am I supposed to tell them? Easter bunnies leave eggs. Yet, lying to them again...just like santa and elves leave us gifts? Don't think so. I'm just not going to lie to these children.

I am quite aware that not all of our children are Christians. (And, yes, we do have a number of Christian children in our school, yet, some people treat them as they don't exist). And I am also aware of their age, understanding, and backgrounds. I know enough to also tell the children that Christians believe Jesus is God.

Why do some still insist on treating me like I'm a moron when it comes to these things? Oh, I know, it's because they hate God and hate those who don't...It's really interesting how these demands (because they are NOT suggestions) never come from the boss, but from the co-worker.

It will be interesting tomorrow...

Actually, last week was really funny. We are learning about dinosaurs and all the books in my classroom talk about evolution and dinosaurs living 65 million years ago. I told the kids I don't believe that and there is actually proof that T-Rex existed 5,000 years ago. One student told me that I'm wrong because another teacher told them the 65 million years old claim.

I told the student that this was just a theory and truly, there is no solid evidence nor can all scientist agree on this. And since it is theory, I can also give my theory. Both can still be valid because there is no conclusive evidence, and therefore, you cannot tell me that I'm wrong because they are theories. I then told the student, that I know very little, the teachers at the school know very little, and as much as you study in the future, you, too, will know very little. The only one that knows all is God. And no matter how much knowledge we acquire, we'll never know all there is to know on one subject.

I'm surprised that the students didn't tell the other teachers this. But some did go home and tell their parents that I said that the students, teachers, and all humans know very little and only God knows everything!

Parents were not angry (not to mention the fact that I said God, and although, I know what God I mean, I didn't say the God of the Bible or Jesus...so, really they can apply it whatever way they want). They were really curious who taught them because they saw it as such an "adult" idea. Plus, the students who told their parents what I said were the Christian students...

Happy Resurrection Sunday!

Wow. Today was the first Easter service I've ever attended that was void of sin, repentence, and the sacrifice on the cross so that we can be in a right relationship with the Father. I also didn't know there are two types of "Christians," those who live in the natural (those who are "saved" but still have a lot of problems, read: can't kick their sin habits) and those who live by the Spirit (those who are living that "abundant life"). Hmm...I would think that the former would just not be Christians, if they are still in a lifestyle of sin. Five people got "saved" because they "confessed their sin and accept Jesus into" their hearts. (Although, this is the first mention of sin, and I'm sure there is no understanding of it as a result...and since when do WE accept Jesus...I though, He accepts us...)

I actually left service, confused!

Anyway, this was completely the oddest resurrection day I've ever experienced.

The little kids did a short program. It was in Chinese, but my understanding (because I did my own translating) is that we are covered by sin and satan has a hold on us, but Jesus came in His love to set us free. I think this was the most Biblical thing for the afternoon.





There's an Easter Play tonight, but it's in Chinese, and I'm sure I'll just be frustrated with a typical emergent message.

Birthday Party

Eric, Judy, and Karen came over to celebrate. Judy brought me some roses. That was really sweet since I told them not to get me anything. I cooked lemon wine chicken and some vegetables. I also made homemade charoset and homemade matzoh. I think I'm going to make some for the kids on Monday since we are talking about Easter. I can talk about Passover, too. We watched the Daniel Pearl movie. It was really good. I had a good time tonight and I love my friends. I will definately miss them when I leave...

Happy Birthday to Me!

March 22nd marks my 7th year as a Christian...I value this celebration more than my real birthday. Where and what would I be without Jesus Christ? For starters, I'd be on a one-way path to hell and eternity of torture in a lake of fire. There's nothing, absolutely nothing I could do to bypass the judgement day. And it's only because God is so loving and true to His Word, that Jesus Christ paid the price for my sin. And for that, I am eternally grateful.

Not only would I have a spiritual death, but I should have had a physical one a long time ago...drowning at the age of 3 or 4 in a lake, depression, suicide attempts, occult, witchcraft, satanism, hanging with the wrong people, doing the wrong things, doing things that really should have gotten me killed...

And yet, through it all, I know that God's hand was upon my life in a way protecting me for such a time as this...

The past 7 years of my life have been such an incredible journey of getting to know and love my Lord and Savior. Jesus Christ has truly changed my life from the inside out. So, many people tell me how I'm not fun anymore because I don't do the things I used to do. But to that I say, when one understands the great sacrifice Jesus made for us so that we can be right with the Father, how can one not want to live a life that is pleasing and honoring to the Lord? I love Him with everything within me, Jesus is so precious to me, and I submit to Him out of honor and love, not in fear or in bondage.

With Easter falling on Sunday, I beg of you to thinking about these things...put the ideas of bunnies and eggs aside, and think about the cross. Why is it there? Why did Jesus die on it? What does it all mean?

Think about this: Are you like I was thinking that I could earn "points" and go to heaven because I'm a "good" person? Come on, really...have you ever told a lie...it doesn't matter what kind...a lie is a lie. If I told a lie, you'd call me a liar. Have you ever told your parents you'd do something they asked you do to, and then didn't do it? That's disobeying and I know I've done it more than once.
The Bible says that there is none good but God. To even call ourselves good, would be a sin because we'd be calling God a liar. And that's just not His character or nature.

But in the end, we will all die; no one can get out of that. And we will all be judged by our creator; again, we can't get out of that. And God will judge both you and I according to our deeds and what was in our hearts. Would that good judge find you innocent or guilty of breaking the Law? Would you be punished or rewarded? If you're like me, you deserve to be punished for breaking the Law. That's just the consequence of breaking laws...you get punished. Are you concerned?

But you don't have to be. See, God keeps His promises. He kept His promise and sent Jesus Christ, who sacrificed His life upon the cross by shedding His blood as a final sacrifice and conquered sin and death in His resurrection, to bring us into a right relationship with our Creator.

Unlike other religions that require works to get to heaven, Jesus said that He's the only way. And all we have to do is repent and put our trust in Him. And when we begin to trust Christ, He will change us from the inside out.


(P.S. I am eternally grateful for God placing Patricia and Michele in my life back in college. They were so instrumental in "leading" me to the Lord. The love of the Lord is truly reflected in these women. I thank them both for their courage and boldness to speak truth to me. You both were the first to ever do that in my life. So, thank you. And from the depths of my heart, I love you both, forever).

Presidential Election

Tomorrow, well, today...is the presidential election in Taiwan. Just be glad the things I've seen don't take place in America...It's insane.

Judah and Levi

Judah likes to torture Levi. But Levi always returns for more. It's strange. After Judah chokes and bites Levi (to which Levi NEEDS to learn to fight back), Judah licks Levi and then a nap follows. They have a very odd relationship...

Levi Likes to Eat Books

Especially the Bible...I try to stop him, but he keeps doing it. I'm not sure if that means he loves the Word of God. I think it does. I often read to him and Judah...

The Levi Update

Levi is doing well. His stomach is still huge, but he doesn't seem to have anything wrong with him. He's really playful. He likes to go after Judah, but doesn't like the consequences of playing with the big boy.
Levi is now able to jump on and off of my bed. I find that he likes to sleep in my bed near me. Often, I roll on top of him...He and I have have a special little bond. His "personality" is quite different from Judah's. It's really interesting.

Notary in Taiwan is a Rip Off!!

It cost $30 USD for EACH document that needs a notary's signature!!! I have 6 documents to get notarized!!! That's $180 USD to have someone sign papers saying I'm me!! WHAT?!?!? PLUS, I have to pay to take the train to another city and then pay for a cab to the AIT office!! And then back to Tainan...

Someone remind me to become a notary so I can charge outrageous fees and rip people off. I think that would be a great way to pay off my student loans.

Thank you.

Too bad I'd feel too guilty about charging people that much money...

But at least the trip will be worth it...I need more pages in my passport...I just realized that it's full...oops.

I'm Moving to the Middle East!!!

I was offered the teaching position in Abu Dhabi, UAE and accepted it today. I will be teaching middle school social studies and English language arts at an American school.
UAE is strategically located on the Arabian Peninsula. It is a country where Islam governs its laws, however, it's more "liberal" than its neighbor, Saudi Arabia. There are some Christian churches, however, it is illegal to share the Gospel or hand out religious literature.

Do I Ever Feel Like an Idiot...

First, since NO ONE has ever called me in Taiwan...I got my OWN phone number wrong on my CV. Apparently, the 0 we dial before the 9 is just when you dial within Taiwan...I had NO CLUE!

Then my number one reference can't be contacted. (I hope you are okay)!!

This doesn't look good for me...I feel so stupid. I want to bang my head against the wall...

Waiting...Waiting....

The phone conversation with the administrator went well. I gave him permission to call my references (who are all in the States). I was hoping to know by last night, but it looks as if he was unable to get a hold of all of them...hopefully, by Sunday....

As for my current job, it seems as if I don't exist there anymore...

Oh, well. I'm starting my own little business this afternoon. So, buy stuff from me!Cool? :)

Phone Interview

Tomorrow night with the school in Abu Dhabi.

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

I heard back from a school in U.A.E. It is an International American School (which makes me happy). I was sent a copy of a contract and other information to review. After I review the information, I am to contact the director and let him know if I want him to call me or not.

After reviewing most of the information tonight, I want him to call me! :)
(I do need to finish reading it...tomorrow).

(Of all the schools that I've applied to, and in regards to the Middle East area...this is the school I WANT to be at...)

Christian Schools

I applied last night to an organization that oversees Christian international schools throughout the world. Some positions pay a stipend and some require you to raise funds. I applied to teach in Caracas, Buenos Aires...and...Kabul. Yes, Afghanistan. And no, I'm not crazy. I've given this a lot of prayer.

My heart is to be in the missions field outside the United States...I just feel like I can't run from it any longer...And if God opens a door, then praise Him...if He closes it...praise Him...

I do have a meeting with my co-worker, who is a missionary, about starting an independent business thing...It's called Amway in Taiwan...I don't know what it's called in the US. It would give me some extra income.

So, I wait, slightly anxious, for a reply from the organization. I've placed over 40 applications with schools and districts throughout the US, Asia, Europe, etc...And I've only had one reply stating, "Thank you for your application."

Can you imagine the frustration when you are a highly qualified educator (that's a fact, not trying to say I'm so wonderful...)and can't even get a reply from submitting an application?

Night Market Evangelism

I finally got to share the Gospel with a lady who works at the local night markets. I have been wanting to share it with her for almost 2 years, but have been unable to...

I really like this lady named Emily. She makes these really good pancakes with chocolate, peanut butter, jelly, etc inside. I often buy some because they taste great the next day. Unfortunately, because she is always so busy (as she normally works alone) and it's so crowded, it's difficult to have a conversation with her.

But today...

I decided to take a walk to the night market. I entered through the back and thought, I'll get some pancakes and go home. Well, her line was so long...I went to get another snack I love (sticky rice balls with chocolate and peanut butter). I went back for some pancakes and no one was there!! And she was working with her husband. I gave him my order and she put down what she was doing behind him to talk with me. She said I looked nice because I had make-up on and I thought this is it...

I said, well, I try to look nice for church. She, said, oh it's Sunday. And she started to ask me if I pray before I eat. I told her yes, but sometimes I forget, and it's okay. She asked about lengths of prayer and I said that out of respect for the people I'm with, I tend to keep it short (however, I have known someone to go on for 10 or 15 minutes before a meal)!

Then, oddly, she asked me if I liked mormons. She said her children's English teacher hates them. I told her I don't like them, I LOVE them and this is why...

I used the opportunity to talk about deception within religions and how God doesn't require us to follow laws or do good things to get to heaven. There's nothing "good" that you and I can do that will give us favor with God and allow us to have eternal life with Him when we die. I talked about how mormons do good works so when they die, they can become gods of other planets compared to Christianity, in which, all we have to do is repent and put our trust in Jesus Christ...and that's how we can have eternal life. When you surrender your life to Jesus, your heart will change and you will want to do good things because HE has been so good to you...the motive is very different.

God really blessed me with a 2 minute window of opportunity to talk with Emily about the Gospel. As soon as my order was finish, people started lining up quickly. I'm really greatful for the chance. I was feeling kind of down just a few minutes prior to that, because everytime I call home, no one wants to talk with me...And then I remembered, it really is NOT about me...

I Paid Off Another Credit Card Today

Oh, and it feels good...one more to go!!

Thai Massage

Since Irene, Tina and I have been doing Dance Party and pilates at my house this week, we went for a Thai Massage yesterday. If you are ever in Tainan, call me. I give you the info. I've been to the really expensive spas for massages, but have only got little frou-frou girls who lightly massage, even when you tell them harder! The woman who did mine combined deep massage with strethching. I never knew my body could move into the positions she moved it. And it felt good! When I've gotten deep massage before, my body feels like it's been sunburned the next day...I have no feels like that today...

We had a good time. Irene couldn't stop laughing...and I knocked my lady into the wall! (She stretched my back over her legs and she said "Okay." I thought that meant to get off, so I got off...and she fell into the wall! Oops! Okay, meant to stay and don't move)!!

And for under $30 USD for 2 hours...we will be going back...

Evolution

Jay Leno

Jay Leno wrote this; it's the Jay Leno we don't often see....

"The other day I was reading Newsweek magazine and came across some poll data I found rather hard to believe. It must be true, given the source, right?

The Newsweek poll alleges that 67 percent of Americans are unhappy with the direction the country is headed, and 69 percent of the country is unhappy with the performance of the President. In essence, 2/3's of the citizenry just ain't happy and want a change.

So being the knuckle dragger I am, I started thinking, ''What are we so unhappy about?''
Is it that we have electricity and running water 24 hours a day, 7 days a week?

Is our unhappiness the result of having air conditioning in the summer and heating in the winter?

Could it be that 95.4 percent of these unhappy folks have a job?

Maybe it is the ability to walk into a grocery store at any time, and see more food in moments than Darfur has seen in the last year?

Maybe it is the ability to drive from the Pacific Ocean to the Atlantic Ocean without having to present identification papers as we move through each state?

Or possibly the hundreds of clean and safe motels we would find along the way that can provide temporary shelter?

I guess having thousands of restaurants with varying cuisine from around the world is just not good enough.

Or could it be that when we wreck our car, emergency workers show up and provide services to help all, and even send a helicopter to take you to the hospital.

Perhaps you are one of the 70 percent of Americans who own a
home. You may be upset with knowing that in the unfortunate case of a fire, a group of trained firefighters will appear in moments and use top notch equipment to extinguish the flames thus saving you, your family and your belongings.

Or if, while at home watching one of your many flat screen TVs, a burglar or prowler intrudes, an officer equipped with a gun and a bullet-proof vest will come to defend you and your family against attack or loss.

This all in the backdrop of a neighborhood free of bombs or militias raping and pillaging the residents. Neighborhoods where 90 percent of teenagers own cell phones and computers.

How about the complete religious, social and political freedoms we enjoy that are the envy of everyone in the world?

Maybe that is what has 67 percent of you folks unhappy.

Fact is, we are the largest group of ungrateful, spoiled brats the world has ever seen. No wonder the world loves the U.S., yet has a great disdain for its citizens. They see us for what we are. The most blessed people in the world who do nothing but complain about what we don't have , and what we hate about the country instead of thanking the good Lord we live here.

I know, I know. What about the President who took us into war and has no plan to get us out? The President who has a measly 31 percent approval rating? Is this the same President who guided the nation in the dark days after 9/11? The President that cut taxes to bring an economy out of recession? Could this be the same guy who has been called every name in the book for succeeding in keeping all the spoiled ungrateful brats safe from terrorist attacks?

The Commander-In Chief of an all-volunteer army that is out there defending you and me? Did you hear how bad the President is on the news or talk show? Did this news affect you so much, make you so unhappy you couldn't take a look around for yourself and see all the good things and be glad?

Think about it...are you upset at the President because he actually caused you personal pain OR is it because the "Media" told you he was failing to kiss your sorry ungrateful behind every day.

Make no mistake about it. The troops in Iraq and Afghanistan
have volunteered to serve, and in many cases may have died for your freedom. There is currently no draft in this country. They didn't have to go.

They are able to refuse to go and end up with either a ''general'' discharge, an ''other than honorable'' discharge or, worst case scenario, a ''dishonorable'' discharge after a few days in the brig.

So why then the flat-out discontentment in the minds of 69 percent of Americans? Say what you want, but I blame it on the media. If it bleeds, it leads; and they specialize in bad news. Everybody will watch a car crash with blood and guts. How many will watch kids selling lemonade at the corner? The media knows this and media outlets are for-profit corporations. They offer what sells , and when criticized, try to defend their actions by "justifying" them in one way or another. Just ask why they tried to allow a murderer like O.J. Simpson to write a book about "how he didn't kill his wife, but if he did he would have done it this way"...Insane!

Stop buying the negativism you are fed everyday by the media. Shut off the TV, burn Newsweek, and use the New York Times for the bottom of your bird cage. Then start being grateful for all we have as a country. There is exponentially more good than bad.

We are among the most blessed people on Earth, and should thank God several times a day, or at least be thankful and appreciative.

"With hurricanes, tornados, fires out of control, mud slides, flooding, severe thunderstorms tearing up the country from one end to another, and with the threat of bird flu and terrorist attacks, "Are we sure this is a good time to take God out of the Pledge of Allegiance?"

Jay Leno
2007

Elmer and the Dragon

My student, Matthew, gave this to me! It's a paper model of Dragon from the book we're reading. I'm trying to convince my boss to let him teach the class how to make it. Matthew put chocolates in the belly of the dragon. It was really cool! However, he kept the chocolates. He said that he didn't make Elmer (the boy in the book) yet. I'm super impressed with his skills.

It's Official...Levi is Healthy!!

He can now play with Judah. It's been so funny to watch them together. Judah, my big cow, is afraid of Levi! Levi cries at him and Judah runs away! Priceless! But as I sit and write this, Judah is chasing Levi and looks like Levi is trying to "fight" back. The doctor said that this will be good for Levi. I shouldn't stop Judah from beating him up because he needs to learn to fight back.

It Must Be Earthquake Season...

I finally went to sleep early today only to wake up an hour later by my apartment moving...It's to early to tell how strong it was. However, my apartment is huge and to see it moving probably takes a lot...I'd say it was around a 7...

So much for resting...

Don't Expect Pictures of Me Anytime Soon...

So, this morning, Judah was quite angry. I wouldn't play with him at 6 AM nor would I feed him (he wasn't allowed to eat for 12 hours before the surgery). And when I fed Levi, it was the last straw for him. I now have a beautiful one-inch gash, lengthwise, on my nose. It didn't look deep enough for stitches, but it did take over an hour for it to stop bleeding. I went to work early and my co-worker helped me to close it up with some tape. I'm not happy about this at all. I really hope that Judah's attitude gets better...

Oh, and Judah was neutered today. Guess what the doctor saved for me to see when I picked him up...

Gross.

Happy Birthday, Judah!

Judah is six months old today. My little vampire is growing up! And for his gift, he's getting neutered today. Perhaps, he'll stop being a vampire now.

More Earthquakes

Tonight: 5.8...I'm really sensitive. I know.

Dance Party!!

My uncle gave me a dance workout dvd for Christmas. Irene, Tina, and I finally put it to the test...it was hard! We did some of it and reverted back to pilates. We will try it again on Wednesday!

Fajita Night

I decided to cook after ETT for my friends. Well, actually, I promised Eric that as soon as I cleaned my apartment, I'd cook for him. But no party is complete without Irene and Tina. I also invited our friend Zack, who got the Gospel that night. Notice to everyone: if you come over my house, you will hear the Gospel. I did teach my friends how to make homemade tortillas. It was really funny and they struggled with rolling them out. We had a lot of tortillas with holes. It all tasted the same in the end! :) They were a great help!

All You Need is Love

Levi is proof of that. And they wanted to kill him...As of Saturday, he's healthy and disease free. Just take a look how great he looks compared to what he looked like when I first got him. He's eating like a cow, the worm is gone from his intestines. He loves to run around and play with boxes. He's quick like a mouse. And by Thursday, he can play with Judah (Judah is getting neutered tomorrow! te he he he). Levi is a great kitten and I'm quite happy to have him. I have a feeling he's happy to have me as well.