Language of the World

I am sure that all of my two followers noticed the name change of my blog. I am not sure if I will stick with "Pursuing Wisdom" but I feel it is much more fitting for a boring blog such as this. Now, if one looks at the title they can at least know what it is I often write about.

Aside from this applicable change, I plan to start a new blog once I arrive in Zambia. I hope to make it more interesting, with more pictures/less intense topics of discussion. Although that is the plan, I doubt it will be the case, considering so many vivid affairs take place in developing countries.

From here out, the blog will mainly consist of my reflections on different books or ideas I run across in my search for understanding in this world. Some specific topics I may address are faith, prayer, the Holy Spirit, fasting, etc. I hope that by blogging any information I obtain, it can serve as a good reference later on. I would like to eventually post some question and answer segments with men that I highly respect and view as being wise.

Yesterday, I read The Alchemist, by Paulo Coelho. I am a firm believer that as Christians we are called to make a difference in the world; that we have a purpose here on Earth. After sharing these opinions with a friend, she recommended I read Coelho's novel. Although it started off slow, the story gradually caught my attention and became very thought provoking towards the end. This is the only book by Coelho that I have read, but these few pages were plenty to accredit his brilliance. The Alchemist gives a whole new meaning to prayer and relationship with God, the creator. During one section of the story, the main character, Santiago, becomes one with the wind. The way Coelho writes this section allowed me to somewhat grasp the role that the hand of God plays in the universe; however, I was not able to hang on to this realization long. I do not know that anyone is capable of doing so.

Coelho addresses four obstacles in which he feels can interfere with one discovering their "personal legend." Throughout The Alchemist, Coelho uses the words "personal legend" as one's calling from "the hand." "The hand" is God and someone's "personal legend" is God's calling in their life. For the rest of this exert I will simply refer to the hand's personal legend as God's calling or purpose for each person. Also, Coelho talks about listening to our hearts; which to me would be the Holy Spirit or conscious. For practical purposes, when I say Spirit, I am referring to the Holy Spirit (trinity), which comes from Jesus.

The first obstacle is our disbelief. We are unable to pursue what we have been called to do, simply because the Spirit is drowned out through the process of growing up. All throughout life one may be lead to believe that their dreams are impossible. “When I had my sheep, I was happy, and I made those around me happy. People saw me coming and welcomed me. But now I’m sad and alone. I’m going to become bitter and distrustful of people because one person betrayed me. I’m going to hate those who have found their treasure because I never found mine. And I’m going to hold on to what little I have, because I’m too insignificant to conquer the world.” -Santiago in The Alchemist. We doubt ourselves, saying “Maybe this isn't truly my calling." We settle for less, assuming that we were wrong to begin with. Before making a difference in the world, one will be tested severely and must continue to fight.

According to Coelho, the second step to overcome is love. Although I do not feel that this step would hinder my purpose; love can put an end to any dream in a hurry. There is no need to explain this point, when everyday we see people put an end to their education, jobs, goals, etc. over a person they love. Whether it be family or friends, love can be a hindrance. Jesus discusses this in the Bible, by teaching that a true disciple is able to leave behind anything or anyone in order to further his kingdom. Your spouse has to be by your side. She has to be in tune with your calling; or you must move on alone. True love will not hold you back, but allow you to pursue what is right.

Next, is the fear of defeat. Although we may know which path to take it often seems impossible. We immediately begin to doubt ourselves and wonder how silly we are for believing that we could make a difference. We must be comforted, knowing God and the Spirit dwell within us; being at peace and joy with Jesus Christ.

Last, is the slippery wall that causes one's calling to slip away. This is what Coelho refers to as a fear of realization. We must strive towards our goal and once it is reached, we must not feel undeserving. The prize at the ended is to be accepted; knowing that it is well deserved. The fear of realization can often cause us to allow the prize to slip away.

Each of these barriers could be discussed to a much greater extent, but I would like to reflect on one more obstacle that came to mind. This may fall under one of Coelho's categories; just not specifically. This is what I would call the routine and chore barrier. Everyday I obligate myself to simple jobs and chores that stand in the way of God's calling in my life. We often allow simple pleasures and relationships to blind us in furthering our purpose. Why? Because it is simple. Because it is easy. Because it is normal. Because we do not have to be afraid when we take the simple route. No one will challenge your ability. By following the routine, we can avoid disappointment and disbelief from not only others, but ourselves.

Few people take the path that God has laid out for them, but that should not be the case for Christians. We shall not be threatened by the world. God has set a path for us, but nothing fictional. Something real, which is guided by the Holy Spirit that dwells within. When we open up to God and allow him to guide us, it is vital that we take action when necessary, which can mean putting your life on the line. Therefore, knowing the calling that God has for us does not make us indestructible. Throughout the fulfillment of one's purpose, one is still susceptible to everything under the sun. For a person to become who they potentially are is required in order to fulfill a calling. As Christians, we each play a vital role in the direction of the world. It is necessary that we discover this role in order that we may fulfill the purpose for which it has been given to us.

Understanding Recipient

We all know that in order to deserve something, you must work for it. So why do we often receive what we do not deserve and then fail to give back? By spoiling someone or giving heedlessly and immeasurably, you deprive them of so much understanding. You deprive them of a basic consideration of all people around who have not received as much. You deprive them of the struggles normal people face each and every day. This makes no problem a very big problem.

But who is to blame for this effortless possession of money and other materials? This lack of understanding is very subconscious; therefore, the giver is to be blamed, not the person who receives. The one who spoon-feeds is to blame, not the baby who does not know any better. One cannot be blamed for never being taught. I will not have patience if I do not know what patience is. I will not be modest, if only encouraged to boast. I will not give, when only accustomed to receiving. I will only accept the best accessories possible and take advantage of what has been given. I am not saying it is wrong to receive; Jesus even talks about being not only a cheerful giver, but receiver. However, if everything one owns has simply been given to them, they are subconsciously inconsiderate of those around. How can you be considerate or understanding of a struggle you have never experienced? How can you truly appreciate what you have obtained if you did not work for it? The only way to truly appreciate your material blessings is to have lived without them. I am never appreciative of all the work my mother does at home, until I am away and forced to perform some of the tasks she has always done for me. The only way a man will be grateful or perceive the worth of a new truck is if he works his way up from a lousy truck. Being deserving of this new truck is directly related with how much work was put into obtaining it, as well as the truck he owned before in comparison. The work that was put into obtaining the truck reflects how proud the owner will be, which then reflects the way the truck is treated or used. What prevents someone from being spoiled is the way in which they receive. Two people can be given one thousand dollars and feel completely different ways about it. One may use the money on new clothes while the other uses the money to further their purpose in order to reach their goals.

So what separates the man who works to obtain a new pair of shoes from the man who is simply given a pair? Often times it is the family. The man who works hard for his possessions and is greatly rewarded must be careful in giving. There are many men who have worked hard in order to become successful, only to spoil their children and deprive them of the very characteristic that made them successful. How can you expect your children to give of their possessions if they are not deserving of them? If a spoiled child were to give you a new television; the child is simply using someone else's resources to buy the gift. For example, if I give you $500 and you buy me a $500 television, you have given me nothing aside from the thought and action of spending my own money.

There is much more that can be discussed concerning material possessions, but I would like to continue the discussion on how hard work and sacrifice are the main ways to gain possession of something in a deserving way. At this point I am no longer talking about material matters, but much bigger issues. In order to make a difference in the world one must be stretched and have to stretch others to accomplish a particular goal. The way in which you receive from others is exactly what separates the spoiled from the inspired. My parents and grandparents have done so much for me growing up, there is now way I can ever repay them. For this reason, I do not plan to repay them; only to continually work my hardest to achieve what I have set out to do. In this way, I may be a good receiver without paying back or being spoiled. Their continual support is aimed directly at my purpose and allows me to achieve what I feel is right. This does not mean I am deserving of my family's support, but that I am appreciative and aware.

In order to be a freedom fighter, Nelson Mandela often put his family and friends in tough situations, which led to bans and imprisonment. Although he relied on the support of his family and friends, he was usually away from them and unable to give back what he had received. Being a freedom fighter prevented him from being there for his wife and children as they grew up. Although Mandela had to sacrifice so much of himself and others, he did this knowing that his footsteps were in the right direction. In order to make a difference in the world, Mandela not only had to work hard for everything he achieved, but he also had to stretch his family and friends as well. I am blessed with a family that is willing to stretch for me and support me no matter what their circumstances. I am quite thankful that my parents have managed to give me so much of their time and money without spoiling me. In this way, I am able to receive what I cannot give back, yet still fully appreciate what has been given. If I use everything that is given to me to further my purpose on Earth then I may receive endlessly. By being a good recipient hopefully I can make a difference in the world and be deserving of all that has been given to me.

You Imbecile!

The title for this post came straight from my older sister's mouth many times when I was younger and I can almost hear it now as if it were only yesterday that I was pestering her in the playroom. I feel like this title fits very well, when discussing the relationship we have with our Creator.

Regardless of any earthly knowledge that has been obtained, there is no possible way that one can wrap their mind around the endless phenomenon that surrounds us each day. I admit how impressive some of today's inventions are, along with the many discoveries that are being made in science. Technology has become quite incredible and is taking giants leaps each year (iPhone 4 is da bomb). Apple's engineers as well as every other genius can come up with whatever ideas they want, but they will never scratch the surface of God's astounding wisdom. It's almost comical reading a Chemistry book and seeing exceptions to every rule that the scientists try to make. As humans we always search for a consistency; we want it laid right before us. We want all of the answers, straight facts. There is a reason we have not found a cure for cancer. Maybe God doesn't want us to? Yet, anyways.

The wisest men I have ever read about or known, have come to the realization that not only them, but all of us, are feeble minded and cannot fathom the depths of the universe. Oftentimes to test myself I try to grasp one simple thing, like how many people are living in one city plus the individual experiences and thoughts that each person has. Each person living in Searcy, Arkansas has their own life (believe it or not) with their own emotions, concerns, family, and friends. The person next to you's life is just as important to them as yours is to yourself. Now, what about the state of Arkansas? United States? World? Yes, our Creator is in tune with all of these details concerning each person on the universe. I am constantly reminded of unimaginable wisdom of God through random, mind-blowing facts. There are thousands upon thousands of calculations humans have made, many of which cannot be explained. Did you know the hummingbird weighs one ounce? Or that cockroaches can detect movement as small as 2,000 times the diameter of a hydrogen atom. How about that the Earth weighs 5,972,000,000,000,000,000,000 tons? I would like a scientist to explain to me why the same free radicals that serve as enzymes to keep us alive are correlated with many types of cancer. Or even how sharks are immune to ALL diseases. Every single human being on Earth has a unique tongue and fingerprint.

I say all of this to mention the ignorance of humans throughout all of history. God intended to have relation with man when he created the Earth, but no matter what is done or who is sent, we still reject the wisdom that he wishes to bestow upon us. It is obvious after reading the Gospel how people just do not get it; even with Jesus standing right in front of them! Our Creator came to Earth in the form of a man, so that we may have access to his infinite wisdom through the Holy Spirit. Our Creator walked this very same Earth in order to get the message across, yet he was rejected.

If someone were to make a prophecy of what is to come here in America, they would immediately be shunned and no one would believe a word they said to be true! Several men in Africa long ago saw visions of white men taking over the land, but were sent away by their own people who did not believe. We just don't get it. Even the disciples who walked daily with Jesus were unable to grasp the Kingdom of Heaven and distance themselves from earthly ideology. Apostle Paul makes it very clear that chasing after knowledge here on Earth is foolish and will get you nowhere. One must be in touch with the Holy Spirit in order to truly obtain wisdom.

May we not fall into the ways of the world and search for wisdom in the wrong places. It is important to seek knowledge through education and studying, but access to real wisdom and understanding is granted to us only through the Holy Spirit. May we be open to our marvelous Creator and believe in the truth.

A Competition with Ambition

Growing up I have always been competitive, no matter what the circumstance. Imagine the guy who doesn't play cards because he can't stand losing and when he does play, it is approached way too seriously. That's me. Until recently, I have always been involved with some sort of organized athletic team, whether it be football, basketball, soccer, or track. Looking back at some of my experiences it is apparent how much I love competition. Not only a fight or goal, but the challenge. I want to face the biggest and the toughest.

After all of my years of competitive athletics I would have never guessed my fiercest competitors would arrive shortly after my retirement from playing ball. I never would have thought that a few thick textbooks with the word "Chemistry" written on them would be my greatest challengers yet. At no point before my recent studies have I encountered a competition that was to require so much sacrifice. That 300 pound linemen who once intimidated me looks like a toddler when I set him next to my 1000 page Organic text.

Although I am having to sacrifice time, sleep, money, and more time, every second is worth it. The challenge is irresistible to me. Knowing that we are fortunate enough in America to choose whatever eduction we would like is simply incredible and I that is something I must take advantage of. Unfortunately, I am not very smart. Much like being undersized as a college football player, this is something I can accept without being naive. As much as I wish I was a keen fellow and often act like I am, the truth is I am not. God did not provide me with a brilliant mind; however, he provided me with a relentless work ethic and an attitude that will settle for nothing short of my best. Not to mention time management; that helps a little bit, I guess.

This new competition I have now embarked upon has many demanding obstacles. For me it is much like golf. I have to practice on my own and ride solo to get it all figured out. For a dumb person as myself to analyze something as complicated as reactions and free radicals long enough to fully understand the information, is no short process. Much like other competitions, there is in overtime to Chemistry. But with Chemistry it is overtime EVERY TIME. Yes, I just made an evil laugh sound too. But seriously, I put it on the line every time. It is as if 24 hours just isn't enough time during the day. Sometimes overtime lasts two days. Sometimes the nights don't exist and the days turn to nights. But hey! like Ace Hood says: "I can't slow down for nothing, cause I gotta get overtime, gotta stay on my grind."

I encourage anyone to pursue the education of their choice no matter who they are. I hate to see people shy away from professions they desire simply because of a couple classes in the way. Difficult courses have not only occupied me with a very difficult challenge that I love, but have also allowed me to truly value my education and be deserving of the grades I make.

Not only do I value you my education more, but most importantly my relationships with friends and family. When something takes up your every waking hour for two weeks and then you actually have a break, it is not hard to enjoy. I refuse to put my friends on a "to do" list so when I have time to spend with people I love doing so. Now when I get to spend time with friends or family, I tune into every word spoken. I look intently into the eyes of each person and see how well I can get to know through listening and observing their expressions. Last night was my sister Ashton's 24th birthday. I regret being so tired, which prevented me from playing an active role at the Fuji party. This at least game me an opportunity to be around family and it was great. Today is Friday and although my final exam is Monday and I should probably sleep, I am going two stepping with some friends. This will give me a great opportunity to relax and get to know some of the friends around me (plus embarrass myself). I will certainly not take it for granted, knowing each moment that I am not all alone in my room studying is a precious one.

Going Up?

Driving to and from Little Rock everyday for class has given my mind plenty of time to wander. As my mind has rambled with no definite purpose, several thoughts lay heavier than others. I will try to record some of these thoughts in somewhat of an organized way in which they may be applicable to our daily lives.

When driving anywhere it seems that we always look for the fastest/easiest way. I always enjoy looking for a shorter route; whether that means taking a different road, exit, or speed. Sometimes a destination that is farther than another can be made in equal time due to the different speed limitations and curvature of the roads. I began to think of the two directions that we as humans can choose in life. Not two paths, but two directions. One being Heaven and one being Hell; however, Hell has many more pathways that can be taken. Heaven being the right place, the right direction.

I refuse to believe that all people on earth are evil and selfish, only looking out for themselves. It is important that we strive to see the good in people no matter how difficult they seem. Although there are good people all over the world, I also feel that the earth we live on is much closer to Hell than to Heaven. Not just in a geographical sense, but think of the values and morals that are practiced here on earth. Lets say that Heaven is indeed much farther away from earth than Hell. When someone comes to the end of their life they either arrive at the right place or the wrong place at the same time. So how is it that one may arrive at either place in the same amount of time since they are not equal distances from the earth? This is because the right direction is much like the interstate. I can make a long trip much shorter by taking the interstate. For the most part my travel on the interstate is always quick and steady paced. Also their is only one path to choose from when traveling the right direction. If you do not take the pathway that Jesus Christ puts before us you will be lost very quickly. The pathways to Hell are many and unlike the right direction, these paths have no signs or speed limits to keep control over the roads. Getting lost becomes so much easier not only because there are so many turns and bumps, but because you are on your own. The right direction has many signs along the way and with the presence of Jesus' spirit we can hand over the wheel and be at peace and joy with the world around us.

I realize that this application does not pertain to many aspects of the road and that there is much more that could be spoken of as well. The next few thoughts may remain applicable to either direction that is chosen, but I would like to focus for now on the correct path. Once we have chosen the path we know to be correct, then what? Can we just let the spirit within us do all of the work and enjoy the ride? No. This is not possible since the spirit that dwells in us compels us to do so much more. With Jesus guiding and directing our path we know the next step to take. We know what to do, and while we are doing it, we know it is right. For the first time in my life, I have felt purpose in some of the decisions made. Every morning when I wake up and drive an hour just for a lecture, it feels right. Everything about it feels right, knowing I am driving in the right direction for a reason; with a purpose.

Every Christian has a purpose on the correct path. Sometime God may not make it aware until we are ready to accept it. In guiding us, God uses our talents to do his work. In Romans, Paul talks about the different roles that people may fulfill in the church, whether it be through prophesying, service, teaching, giving, leading, showing mercy, or exhorting. Not everyone plays the same role on this path, some people must preach while others are called to go out. We cannot just leave everyone sitting on the side of the road, they must be reached in one way or another and it is our responsibility while traveling on the correct path to do that by using whatever talents we have been given. If you have a gift, it is important that you use it. We must find the ways God has blessed us and exploit them in order to further his Kingdom; NOT to further ourselves, our team, our friends, or anything else. Losing site of the true goal is very easy when so many other opportunities are available to us. Some people are overwhelmed with options that may please themselves they can never make a decision, causing them to amount to nothing.

"This is a wonderful time to be alive. There have never been more possibilities and opportunities for you to achieve more of your goals than exist today. As perhaps never before in human history, you are actually drowning in options. In fact, three are so many good things that you can do, that your ability to decide among them may be the critical determinant of what you accomplish in life." - Brian Tracy

I received this through text message from good friend of mine, Rusty. Let us not be confused about what options to take. There is only one. One direction, one path. It is important that we are susceptible to what God has planned for us. We must prepare ourselves each day through studying and prayer. These thoughts help to encourage me to do these things, because each and everyday I fail in making the most of the opportunities given. I pray that my ability to decide from all the possibilities that the world provides is no longer an issue, knowing there is one path already set allowing me to accomplish everything in life. The path that all energy and talent should be focused towards: the correct one. I no longer seek the fastest and easiest way to class. I know that God provides the correct way each and everyday and if I will just go the speed limit and be prepared for what is ahead, my role will be fulfilled.

A Calling

The past few months of my life have been very eye-opening. I feel that everyone reaches a point in their life when they realize what is most important. They begin to see how insignificant or immature certain activities are that they once spent so much time worrying about. I also feel that each Christian who is a true disciple of Jesus Christ will get to a point in life when they realize their calling on Earth. The past couple of years I have prayed about my calling and have been so confused about what I should do with my life. I knew so many things that it was NOT. God has always known his plan for me, but waited until I was able to realize the important things in life. I grew up knowing to put God first, but that does not mean I did. To put God first is to put sports and academics behind him. Those are easy, but how about putting family and friends behind God? In Luke 9 Jesus explains to a couple men that wish to be his disciples that they must put family and friends behind. Jesus is saying that to be fit and prepared for the Kingdom of God one must be able to leave the lost souls.

I have always wanted to go out and serve in other countries, but something kept holding me back. Mainly it was the thought of not only leaving friends and family, but as well as the lost here in America. Those passages in Luke help me to see that ones calling may cause them to leave the lost behind as well as everything else. Not everyone has a calling outside of the country and there are true disciples of Christ that stay put such as teachers, preachers, etc. But I feel that I am called to help serve others overseas. I am no preacher, I can only hope that through my service others may see Jesus. The thought of going to Zambia in the Fall gives me great peace and joy within, knowing that I am doing the right thing. For the first time in my academic career I have a purpose for learning and feel like God will place me in the right spot at the right time.

I have enjoyed reading about different missionaries throughout the world and there is one trend that I have began to see. Each missionary that seems to have much success did not hesitate to leave their friends, family, job or school when they felt a calling to leave. This does not mean that they did not prepare for their missions through studying medicine, language, and more; it means they were in tune with what Jesus had planned for them. I pray that one day I can find that connection of inner peace and joy with Jesus that will confidently lead me in the correct direction. Until then I plan to continue my education and study successful ways of reaching out to people in other countries and making a difference. I hope to continue a blog throughout my time in Africa and record some day to day things that may have stuck out to me.

Creation

Read the bible as a New Year's resolution. Read the opening chapters of Genesis. Google pictures of earth. Be amazed; for God is the creator. Man was made in his image.