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Obama's Home Teleprompter Malfunctions During Family Dinner
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Saturday, November 14, 2009
One Month Left...
I called my mom earlier this week and she made the comment, "Well, I read your blog and it looks like you're still doing really well..." I had to remind her that the last time I blogged was almost three weeks ago, but that I was in fact still doing really well. And then this morning I got a comment on my "No Go" post from a friend reminding me that it was in fact time to update the blog... so here we go...
We're calling this post "One Month Left" since today marks my one month left mark. Pretty clever name, I thought.
So much has happened to me over the past 17 days or so. This post is going to be lengthy, so grab your snacks now and turn off the phone cuz you might be a while.
Let's pick up from where we left off. Last time I blogged I told you about the most horrid protein drink I have ever had: Boost. That stuff sucked. I knew I had to subsidize my protein intake somehow, so I found, thanks to two friends, protein powder they were no longer using. I now subsidize my diet's protein with this powder and some really good things called BalanceBare (it's a protein like bar of loveliness). I'm trying to eat six times a day - which is really difficult - and trying to put on a bit of weight/muscle before I come home. After doing P90X at the Gym the other day (which, I have to say I still love doing) I weighed myself... And... I'm now 158 pounds! That's about 3 pounds more than I was last time I weighed myself. I hope to get to 163 before I come home - COME ON 5 MORE POUNDS. And although it might not look like I've put on weight or that I am stronger, I feel better. Working out has a way of making your mind feel better, your body feel better, etc. I love it. I've gotta give a shout out to Jeff who's my workout buddy - without him it would be a lot harder... And sad to say, I've missed the last two days of P90X because of homework... but I'll be back to my schedule today. Time to revamp my goals and hit em' hard this last month!
Speaking of homework, one of the main reasons I'm not blogging as often is because I really want to do well in my classes here, and I'm putting in lots of time into my school work. It's paying off too. The other day I got a paper back and had a 99. Pretty awesome - especially since our teacher (who is awesome, by the way) has a reputation for being strict at grading. He's a great guy, but I've got to work extra hard if I want to submit extra good work in order to get the extra good grade. That's logical, but too many college peeps (including myself at times) forget that.
Oh, if you are interested in watching my second appearance on CNN's Freshman Year, click here (I'm at the 3:50 mark). Proves I'm going to work at least...
As many of you may also know, the House of Representatives just passed (by a vote of 220-215) the Health Care Reform legislation. Everybody was putting in lots of time and effort as a result of this legislation, and I was CONSTANTLY busy at work. We did a tally of people calling the Congressman's office FOR and AGAINST health care and the ratio was 2:1 - AGAINST. It's also interesting to note that the vast majority of those who called in FOR health care reform were calling in since they were told to call in by OFA (Obama/Organizing for America). We listen to all our constituents and pass everybody's opinion along, but you could tell this was pure "astroturfing" instead of "grassroots" concern. We would go days and days with maybe only one or two calls in favor of the Democrats health care reform bill, then one day, at like 11:00 til close, we would get several calls an hour with people saying almost the exact same thing in favor of the bill. I never once received a phone call from an AGAINST person who was calling as a result of an e-mail or campaign. Interesting how our constituents really feel - TOTALLY AGAINST HCR in the form it was in.
The day before the vote (so that would have been last Friday) there was a big rally here on the steps of the Capitol to "kill the bill." I must say that it was quite fun to go out there and meet the people. I had read prior to this event that the people who show up to these things are "right wing nuts" "crazy" "fringe" etc... I was surprised by the people ACTUALLY there. They were concerned people. Not crazy nuts. These were seniors who had NEVER been to Washington, NEVER been to a political rally, but who finally had to come and tell their Congressman how much they disapproved of this legislation. These were great people. Yes there were some loud "fringe" people - like any rally. But for people to categorize the almost 90% majority of people at this rally as crazy right wing nuts is really sad - and it shows how out of touch they are with the reality that people don't like this bill. After the main rally, I spent about 45 minutes outside with the Congressman walking around and meeting people trying to get into the House Office Buildings to meet with their congressman. That was a lot of time, and I met a lot of people - and they were NOTHING like the characterizations made of them by the media. So sad, but not unexpected.
I also met Bay Buchanan the other day. She came in to meet with the Congressman, and then after their visit I had a chance to talk to her. Among other things, I know Bay as an adviser to Mitt Romney during the 2008 Presidential Election. I talked to her a bit about my involvement with the campaign and then we talked about Mitt running again in 2012. We talked about Palin, Huckabee, Pawlenty, etc... I probably shouldn't write too much about our discussion here since it was off the record, but I can say that thoroughly enjoyed the direction our conversation went, and we agreed to "meet on the campaign trail in 2012" (WINK WINK)...
But enough about that. I'm sure you didn't come to a Washington DC intern's blog to read about political stuff... so I'll move on... But just know I love my job. Love. My. Job. (Side note: the other day I took three lady's on a tour of the Capitol and when the tour was over they slipped me some money. I initially refused but they would not have it, so I graciously thanked them and put it in my pocket. After we said our final goodbyes I went on with my work, then remembered the money in my pocket... Yeah, well, when I unraveled the three bills I noticed they gave me $60.00! Crazy, eh? What nice women. I thought I was turning down $10 or $20, but not $60!!)
One of the songs that always comes on at the gym while I'm workout out is "Fireflies" by Owl City. It's one my favorite song right now. You can listen to it here. If you do, and you should, you'll totally get a sense of my feelings and personality right now - because let's face it, this song perfectly reflects my thoughts and life right now. And picture me with longer hair, cuz I'm growing it out - HAHA.
This internship has given me a chance to meet lots of cool people. Several weeks ago I met Judge Griffith. That same week I met Elder Lance Wickman. The next week I ran into Nancy Pelosi and Steny Hoyer in the Capitol (no need for links). And then two weeks ago I met Carmen Medina, the Director for the Center for the Study of Intelligence at the CIA. I also met Bob Bauer yesterday, the guy just named by Obama (yesterday in fact) to be White House Counsel. Additionally, I met this guy in the Barlow Center yesterday! Just click to see... AND, next week I'll be meeting with Grover Norquist. There have been other cool people, like David Axlerod and Joe Wilson, but I'll just end that "cool people" list right there...
Not everything is great in Washington DC - although that's the picture I like to paint. Even I have my down times. One down time I recently had was last weekend. I was just in a rut and just needed some alone time. So last Saturday afteroon I went on a walk by myself into Georgetown. Several miles up Wisconsin Ave. I found this cool little hill with a park at the top. When I got to the top of the hill I had this amazing view overlooking Georgetown and looking into Virgina. I sat on a park bench for about 45 minutes just thinking and watching the sun set. I also spent most of that time praying and just thinking how small I am and how small my problems are compared to the world's. I tried to think about my relationship with God - and since he's the only one who truly knows what I feel and think, he's the only one that I can talk to in depth and detail. As I walked home I felt a great peace, but was not completely out of that rut. The next day (Sunday) I should have gone to church, but didn't feel like it, so I went to a few places where I could ponder more and share my sorrow. I've always believed that shared sorry is half sorrow. I spent my Sunday touring the Holocaust Museum, the Jefferson Memorial, the FRD Memorial, and the Korean and Vietnam War Memorials. It was just good to be alone, to think, to cry to myself, and just BE.
I do want to say something about the Holocaust Museum. They have this place set up so beautifully. Before you begin your tour, you get a little Identification Card with the story of a real person who lived during the Holocaust. I was Israel Milkow, just a little boy at the time of the Holocaust. At the end of each floor you are supposed to pull out your ID card and read one more page about that persons life. By the time you reach the last floor, you read the last page and learn whether or not your person survived the Holocaust. It was so dramatic. But such a nice personal touch for the museum. Israel was from Poland, and when I got to the last floor I saw I display that mentioned that 2 in 10 Polish Jews died during the Holocaust. I was sure that by the end of that floor I would learn that little Israel was a victim of the Holocaust. To my great delight, when I reached the end of the museum I read the last page which told me he survived the war! I was so happy, but so sad that so many people died. At the end of the last floor they have this little theater where you can go and sit and watch a video of survivors recounting some of their experiences during the war. It was so moving to listen to these people share such personal stories and experiences. I was already in a vulnerable state, and I just cried listening to these people tell of their lives. To hear them speak of their friendships, their fears, their pains, their families. There was this one man who talked about how he and his dad always tried to have father son time together at night in the bunks. One time, this guy started to talk about his memories of the family, but his dad had to stop him because it was just too much of a burden for him to remember and to not know where the rest of his family was. But to spend that father son time together was really touching to me. I was also enriched and humbled by this entire experience, and I am so grateful I went. One of the main messages that almost everybody in the film hit upon was that although they didn't know what the future would bring, or if there was even going to be a future, that they just kept going forward each day, one day at a time. They just kept on day after day after day, without ever knowing if there would be an end to their pain. That was such an assurance and faith promoting thought to me, that although I struggle with things, and that although I may not know what's ahead of me in the future, or how long my trials will last, at least I know that I must press on. I must keep going, and move forward one day at a time. Anybody going to DC must go to this museum - and plan to spend time there... I was there four almost 5 hours.
And then I walked around DC and saw some of the memorials, and just thought, and pondered, and realized that all will be well!!! I even came upon a quote by FDR which really helped me: "The only limit to our realization of tomorrow will be our doubts of today. Let us move forward with strong and active faith."
Here are some pictures of my walk...
We're calling this post "One Month Left" since today marks my one month left mark. Pretty clever name, I thought.
So much has happened to me over the past 17 days or so. This post is going to be lengthy, so grab your snacks now and turn off the phone cuz you might be a while.
Let's pick up from where we left off. Last time I blogged I told you about the most horrid protein drink I have ever had: Boost. That stuff sucked. I knew I had to subsidize my protein intake somehow, so I found, thanks to two friends, protein powder they were no longer using. I now subsidize my diet's protein with this powder and some really good things called BalanceBare (it's a protein like bar of loveliness). I'm trying to eat six times a day - which is really difficult - and trying to put on a bit of weight/muscle before I come home. After doing P90X at the Gym the other day (which, I have to say I still love doing) I weighed myself... And... I'm now 158 pounds! That's about 3 pounds more than I was last time I weighed myself. I hope to get to 163 before I come home - COME ON 5 MORE POUNDS. And although it might not look like I've put on weight or that I am stronger, I feel better. Working out has a way of making your mind feel better, your body feel better, etc. I love it. I've gotta give a shout out to Jeff who's my workout buddy - without him it would be a lot harder... And sad to say, I've missed the last two days of P90X because of homework... but I'll be back to my schedule today. Time to revamp my goals and hit em' hard this last month!
Speaking of homework, one of the main reasons I'm not blogging as often is because I really want to do well in my classes here, and I'm putting in lots of time into my school work. It's paying off too. The other day I got a paper back and had a 99. Pretty awesome - especially since our teacher (who is awesome, by the way) has a reputation for being strict at grading. He's a great guy, but I've got to work extra hard if I want to submit extra good work in order to get the extra good grade. That's logical, but too many college peeps (including myself at times) forget that.
Oh, if you are interested in watching my second appearance on CNN's Freshman Year, click here (I'm at the 3:50 mark). Proves I'm going to work at least...
As many of you may also know, the House of Representatives just passed (by a vote of 220-215) the Health Care Reform legislation. Everybody was putting in lots of time and effort as a result of this legislation, and I was CONSTANTLY busy at work. We did a tally of people calling the Congressman's office FOR and AGAINST health care and the ratio was 2:1 - AGAINST. It's also interesting to note that the vast majority of those who called in FOR health care reform were calling in since they were told to call in by OFA (Obama/Organizing for America). We listen to all our constituents and pass everybody's opinion along, but you could tell this was pure "astroturfing" instead of "grassroots" concern. We would go days and days with maybe only one or two calls in favor of the Democrats health care reform bill, then one day, at like 11:00 til close, we would get several calls an hour with people saying almost the exact same thing in favor of the bill. I never once received a phone call from an AGAINST person who was calling as a result of an e-mail or campaign. Interesting how our constituents really feel - TOTALLY AGAINST HCR in the form it was in.
The day before the vote (so that would have been last Friday) there was a big rally here on the steps of the Capitol to "kill the bill." I must say that it was quite fun to go out there and meet the people. I had read prior to this event that the people who show up to these things are "right wing nuts" "crazy" "fringe" etc... I was surprised by the people ACTUALLY there. They were concerned people. Not crazy nuts. These were seniors who had NEVER been to Washington, NEVER been to a political rally, but who finally had to come and tell their Congressman how much they disapproved of this legislation. These were great people. Yes there were some loud "fringe" people - like any rally. But for people to categorize the almost 90% majority of people at this rally as crazy right wing nuts is really sad - and it shows how out of touch they are with the reality that people don't like this bill. After the main rally, I spent about 45 minutes outside with the Congressman walking around and meeting people trying to get into the House Office Buildings to meet with their congressman. That was a lot of time, and I met a lot of people - and they were NOTHING like the characterizations made of them by the media. So sad, but not unexpected.
I also met Bay Buchanan the other day. She came in to meet with the Congressman, and then after their visit I had a chance to talk to her. Among other things, I know Bay as an adviser to Mitt Romney during the 2008 Presidential Election. I talked to her a bit about my involvement with the campaign and then we talked about Mitt running again in 2012. We talked about Palin, Huckabee, Pawlenty, etc... I probably shouldn't write too much about our discussion here since it was off the record, but I can say that thoroughly enjoyed the direction our conversation went, and we agreed to "meet on the campaign trail in 2012" (WINK WINK)...
But enough about that. I'm sure you didn't come to a Washington DC intern's blog to read about political stuff... so I'll move on... But just know I love my job. Love. My. Job. (Side note: the other day I took three lady's on a tour of the Capitol and when the tour was over they slipped me some money. I initially refused but they would not have it, so I graciously thanked them and put it in my pocket. After we said our final goodbyes I went on with my work, then remembered the money in my pocket... Yeah, well, when I unraveled the three bills I noticed they gave me $60.00! Crazy, eh? What nice women. I thought I was turning down $10 or $20, but not $60!!)
One of the songs that always comes on at the gym while I'm workout out is "Fireflies" by Owl City. It's one my favorite song right now. You can listen to it here. If you do, and you should, you'll totally get a sense of my feelings and personality right now - because let's face it, this song perfectly reflects my thoughts and life right now. And picture me with longer hair, cuz I'm growing it out - HAHA.
This internship has given me a chance to meet lots of cool people. Several weeks ago I met Judge Griffith. That same week I met Elder Lance Wickman. The next week I ran into Nancy Pelosi and Steny Hoyer in the Capitol (no need for links). And then two weeks ago I met Carmen Medina, the Director for the Center for the Study of Intelligence at the CIA. I also met Bob Bauer yesterday, the guy just named by Obama (yesterday in fact) to be White House Counsel. Additionally, I met this guy in the Barlow Center yesterday! Just click to see... AND, next week I'll be meeting with Grover Norquist. There have been other cool people, like David Axlerod and Joe Wilson, but I'll just end that "cool people" list right there...
Not everything is great in Washington DC - although that's the picture I like to paint. Even I have my down times. One down time I recently had was last weekend. I was just in a rut and just needed some alone time. So last Saturday afteroon I went on a walk by myself into Georgetown. Several miles up Wisconsin Ave. I found this cool little hill with a park at the top. When I got to the top of the hill I had this amazing view overlooking Georgetown and looking into Virgina. I sat on a park bench for about 45 minutes just thinking and watching the sun set. I also spent most of that time praying and just thinking how small I am and how small my problems are compared to the world's. I tried to think about my relationship with God - and since he's the only one who truly knows what I feel and think, he's the only one that I can talk to in depth and detail. As I walked home I felt a great peace, but was not completely out of that rut. The next day (Sunday) I should have gone to church, but didn't feel like it, so I went to a few places where I could ponder more and share my sorrow. I've always believed that shared sorry is half sorrow. I spent my Sunday touring the Holocaust Museum, the Jefferson Memorial, the FRD Memorial, and the Korean and Vietnam War Memorials. It was just good to be alone, to think, to cry to myself, and just BE.
I do want to say something about the Holocaust Museum. They have this place set up so beautifully. Before you begin your tour, you get a little Identification Card with the story of a real person who lived during the Holocaust. I was Israel Milkow, just a little boy at the time of the Holocaust. At the end of each floor you are supposed to pull out your ID card and read one more page about that persons life. By the time you reach the last floor, you read the last page and learn whether or not your person survived the Holocaust. It was so dramatic. But such a nice personal touch for the museum. Israel was from Poland, and when I got to the last floor I saw I display that mentioned that 2 in 10 Polish Jews died during the Holocaust. I was sure that by the end of that floor I would learn that little Israel was a victim of the Holocaust. To my great delight, when I reached the end of the museum I read the last page which told me he survived the war! I was so happy, but so sad that so many people died. At the end of the last floor they have this little theater where you can go and sit and watch a video of survivors recounting some of their experiences during the war. It was so moving to listen to these people share such personal stories and experiences. I was already in a vulnerable state, and I just cried listening to these people tell of their lives. To hear them speak of their friendships, their fears, their pains, their families. There was this one man who talked about how he and his dad always tried to have father son time together at night in the bunks. One time, this guy started to talk about his memories of the family, but his dad had to stop him because it was just too much of a burden for him to remember and to not know where the rest of his family was. But to spend that father son time together was really touching to me. I was also enriched and humbled by this entire experience, and I am so grateful I went. One of the main messages that almost everybody in the film hit upon was that although they didn't know what the future would bring, or if there was even going to be a future, that they just kept going forward each day, one day at a time. They just kept on day after day after day, without ever knowing if there would be an end to their pain. That was such an assurance and faith promoting thought to me, that although I struggle with things, and that although I may not know what's ahead of me in the future, or how long my trials will last, at least I know that I must press on. I must keep going, and move forward one day at a time. Anybody going to DC must go to this museum - and plan to spend time there... I was there four almost 5 hours.
And then I walked around DC and saw some of the memorials, and just thought, and pondered, and realized that all will be well!!! I even came upon a quote by FDR which really helped me: "The only limit to our realization of tomorrow will be our doubts of today. Let us move forward with strong and active faith."
Here are some pictures of my walk...
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
A No Go
The views expressed in this post are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of CJC or the HOR.
I mentioned over the weekend that I’m trying to build some muscle. But it’s hard. Complicating matters is the fact that these protein drinks I’ve decided to start drinking taste like hell.
Really, it’s just horrible. The initial taste is reminiscent of creamy chocolate milk which quickly morphs into the taste of candy valentine hearts and then ends with a prolonged taste of bloody nose in your mouth. Just gross. Sick, actually.
Sunday, October 25, 2009
Weekend Update
Well there isn't much this week to talk about - at least not anything that important - but here's the rundown...
I'm starting my fourth week of P90X tomorrow. IP90X is an awesome workout program based on the concept of muscle confusion. I've missed a few days (during my NY trip, etc) but I did it every day this past week and it feels so good to feel good. A matter of fact, I've never felt better in my life. Not only do I feel like I'm in better shape, but I'm staring to build muscle too. Ya know it's hard for this skinny guy to build muscle, but I'm counting my protein intake each day and making sure I'm staying above 90 grams each day... It's difficult, but worth it, and I feel great! I've got 7 weeks before I come home so the goal is to keep it up and push myself so I can really see results before getting back to Utah.
This past week I started reading George Orwell's book 1984. It's a pretty good read. I'm only 90 pages into the book, but so far I'm enjoying it. I can't wait to see where this story takes me... so far it's been a lot of information painting the "Ingsoc" (English Socialism) world that Winston lives in... that's a large part of the book too (painting the world he lives in) but I'm waiting for some great story lines to start happening. Come on George, show me the money!!!
Oh gosh, you should see the beauty of Washington, DC right now. The leaves are changing colors and the area is so beautiful. Autumn in the East is always pretty (as I learned during my mission), and I'm so happy to be here right now when the leaves are red and orange and the weather is luke warm all the time - it's great. Just great.
I saw the National Archives yesterday. Interesting. I did see the Constitution, Declaration of Independence and Bill of Rights (which was cool), but all I came away learning from that experience was that the police ladies there are serious when they say "NO FLASH Photography. Yur first flash picture is yur last flash picture. Don't ax any questions! You will be axed you to leave!" No, I didn't even take a camera, so don't think I got in trouble, I just heard this phrase about every 20 seconds. Yuck.
Yesterday was beautiful. Serene. Calm. Then all of a sudden it started to downpour and by the time I found shelter I was as wet as I would have been had I jumped into a pool with my clothes on. Seriously. From head to toe I was drenched! There was no point in me trying to squeeze my way in-between already dry people trying to stay dry, so I just decided to stay out in the rain and enjoy it. I started dancing down the street in the puddles and having a great time. People in Washington don't care what people do or how crazy and weird you look. They see way crazy things all the time. I don't need to justify my point. Just watch CNN or read the internet.
Boring post right? Well, that's my life right now... Full of work, working out, and reading (and getting wet)... that's normal though - not everything I do is grandiose. So until next time... See ya!
P.S. Oh, and for your information, my favorite song right now is Party in the USA, so if you hear it, just picture me noddin' my head like yeah (in the rain), movin my hips like yeah (in the rain) and you'll get the idea... :)
I'm starting my fourth week of P90X tomorrow. IP90X is an awesome workout program based on the concept of muscle confusion. I've missed a few days (during my NY trip, etc) but I did it every day this past week and it feels so good to feel good. A matter of fact, I've never felt better in my life. Not only do I feel like I'm in better shape, but I'm staring to build muscle too. Ya know it's hard for this skinny guy to build muscle, but I'm counting my protein intake each day and making sure I'm staying above 90 grams each day... It's difficult, but worth it, and I feel great! I've got 7 weeks before I come home so the goal is to keep it up and push myself so I can really see results before getting back to Utah.
This past week I started reading George Orwell's book 1984. It's a pretty good read. I'm only 90 pages into the book, but so far I'm enjoying it. I can't wait to see where this story takes me... so far it's been a lot of information painting the "Ingsoc" (English Socialism) world that Winston lives in... that's a large part of the book too (painting the world he lives in) but I'm waiting for some great story lines to start happening. Come on George, show me the money!!!
Oh gosh, you should see the beauty of Washington, DC right now. The leaves are changing colors and the area is so beautiful. Autumn in the East is always pretty (as I learned during my mission), and I'm so happy to be here right now when the leaves are red and orange and the weather is luke warm all the time - it's great. Just great.
I saw the National Archives yesterday. Interesting. I did see the Constitution, Declaration of Independence and Bill of Rights (which was cool), but all I came away learning from that experience was that the police ladies there are serious when they say "NO FLASH Photography. Yur first flash picture is yur last flash picture. Don't ax any questions! You will be axed you to leave!" No, I didn't even take a camera, so don't think I got in trouble, I just heard this phrase about every 20 seconds. Yuck.
Yesterday was beautiful. Serene. Calm. Then all of a sudden it started to downpour and by the time I found shelter I was as wet as I would have been had I jumped into a pool with my clothes on. Seriously. From head to toe I was drenched! There was no point in me trying to squeeze my way in-between already dry people trying to stay dry, so I just decided to stay out in the rain and enjoy it. I started dancing down the street in the puddles and having a great time. People in Washington don't care what people do or how crazy and weird you look. They see way crazy things all the time. I don't need to justify my point. Just watch CNN or read the internet.
Boring post right? Well, that's my life right now... Full of work, working out, and reading (and getting wet)... that's normal though - not everything I do is grandiose. So until next time... See ya!
P.S. Oh, and for your information, my favorite song right now is Party in the USA, so if you hear it, just picture me noddin' my head like yeah (in the rain), movin my hips like yeah (in the rain) and you'll get the idea... :)
Monday, October 19, 2009
Quick Thought About the Atonement
I had a thought come to me while pondering the Atonement this evening. I know I have sinned and I know that the Atonement covers and pardons those sins. I'm very grateful that the Lord was "wounded for [my] transgression" and "bruised for [my] iniquity." I also know that my sins are great, and cause him much pain. They cause me some pain too. However, as bad as this may sound, hear me out before you tell me I'm wrong. I admit right now that although I sin, I don't feel AS BADLY for my sins and transgressions as I do when I've been physically hurt, or hurt by somebody else, or wronged by friends, or ignored, or left out, or been witness to other peoples' hurt. I'm really trying to feel that godly sorrow for my sin, and sometimes it's there, but most times it's subtle - and I do have need to repent, trust me.
Before you think I'm wrong, keep reading... This is my thought: I'm just a different kind of person who feels hurt and sorrow and emotional things in a very intimate way. Most of the hurt I personally feel in this life is caused by loneliness, self-depreciation, fear, pride, etc... I don't wish to imply that the "sins" part of the Atonement is not for me - it most certainly is, and I'm thankful so much for that. But what I am saying is that I think I feel the realness and power of the Atonement in the way it lifts me and heals me after I'm emotionally hurt or physically hurt or depressed, etc. Isaiah said, "Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows." Alma said, "He shall go forth suffering pains and afflictions and temptations of every kind; and this that the word might be fulfilled which saith he will take upon him the pains and the sicknesses of his people." In this way I feel the reality and power of the Atonement.
I'm thankful to the Lord for this gift of Atonement. I seek to be at one with him. I feel that being able to relate and appreciate the Atonement on a deeper level in this one sense will really help me to, in time, realize the reality and power of the atonement in the other sense - the obvious sense: in feeling guilt and forgiveness for sin.
In short: I know the atonement is real because I personally feel its power and healing ability in the way it lifts my burdens, cheers my heart, takes away emotional and physical pain, and lightens my griefs and sorrows. And although I don't feel the power, or relate to it so much when it comes to forgiving "sins", I have a hope that one day I will get to a place in my spiritual development where I will feel that godly sorrow that I should be feeling for my sins and learn of the power of the Atonement in that sense.
I'm grateful that the Spirit helped me realize this tonight because I needed to know that I do in fact appreciate the Atonement even though I don't appreciate it in the way most might. I've been seeking lately to better know and understand how the Atonement can work for me in my life, and this is one tender mercy from the Lord in response to my plea.
Saturday, October 17, 2009
#18, 29, 42, 46, 47, 48 - CHECK
Sorry for the long blog break. Lots going on... LOTS. Maybe later I'll give you a life update, as for now, here are some pictures and stories of my adventures over the past several weeks.
#18 - Gettysburg
Over the past several weeks I’ve visited some really cool places. Many Saturdays ago I went on a day trip to Gettysburg and Harpers Ferry. As you may know, Gettysburg was the three-day Civil War battle between the North and the South that changed the momentum and outcome of the War. While it looked at times as though the South’s big gamble to fight the North on Northern Soil was about to pay off, the North miraculously pulled out a huge win that decimated the South and changed the course of the War. What a needed victory for the North. And although the Confederate Army continued to fight for two more years, they did it for no other reason than to represent their Rebel pride, since they had lost so many men and could surly not win after Gettysburg. I liked Gettysburg. I appreciated the history (obviously) and it was great to spend half a day there. Although the weather was cold and rainy it was a great trip. A matter of fact, I love the rain, so it was perfect for me.
After spending the morning in Gettysburg, we had a great lunch at General Pickets buffet. It was exactly what I wanted on that cold day: hearty southern cookin! AMEN BROTHA! I had my filling of corn bread, chicken, potatoes and gravy, green beans, carrots, catfish, etc. (and more since it was a buffet)… After our meal we went to Harpers Ferry West Virginia. This was the best part of my day. It was also cold and VERY rainy there, but it reminded me so much of Norway and Europe that I couldn’t get enough of it. The surroundings were beautiful. Harpers Ferry is tucked into the Appalachian mountains and surrounded by two rivers, the Shenandoah and Potomac river. At one point of the city the two rivers meet together creating one large river. Here's some pictures:
Over the past several weeks I’ve visited some really cool places. Many Saturdays ago I went on a day trip to Gettysburg and Harpers Ferry. As you may know, Gettysburg was the three-day Civil War battle between the North and the South that changed the momentum and outcome of the War. While it looked at times as though the South’s big gamble to fight the North on Northern Soil was about to pay off, the North miraculously pulled out a huge win that decimated the South and changed the course of the War. What a needed victory for the North. And although the Confederate Army continued to fight for two more years, they did it for no other reason than to represent their Rebel pride, since they had lost so many men and could surly not win after Gettysburg. I liked Gettysburg. I appreciated the history (obviously) and it was great to spend half a day there. Although the weather was cold and rainy it was a great trip. A matter of fact, I love the rain, so it was perfect for me.
After spending the morning in Gettysburg, we had a great lunch at General Pickets buffet. It was exactly what I wanted on that cold day: hearty southern cookin! AMEN BROTHA! I had my filling of corn bread, chicken, potatoes and gravy, green beans, carrots, catfish, etc. (and more since it was a buffet)… After our meal we went to Harpers Ferry West Virginia. This was the best part of my day. It was also cold and VERY rainy there, but it reminded me so much of Norway and Europe that I couldn’t get enough of it. The surroundings were beautiful. Harpers Ferry is tucked into the Appalachian mountains and surrounded by two rivers, the Shenandoah and Potomac river. At one point of the city the two rivers meet together creating one large river. Here's some pictures:
Overlooking some of the Battlefield
Me in Harpers Ferry - Looks Euro, no?
On some cool steps chiseled into the mountain rock leading up to a church (Harpers Ferry)
Where the two rivers meet. I'm soaking wet.
View from the top of Harpers Ferry out over the river
#29 - National Cathedral
This place is WAY awesome. I have to go back. Maybe I will tomorrow after church. I've been to lots of different churches around the world and they usual seem dark and unwelcoming. Not this place. I felt the spirit my entire visit at this church and loved my experience here. The Choir was practicing for their mass later that evening and the sound was beautiful and amazing. They sang the entire time I was looking around and I loved it. Here are some cool pictures. There is still way more to visit here before calling my visit completely done, but I'll have to post more about this place another time...
Me in front of the Cathedral
Me and Mike (my brother-in-law Brian's nephew)
View from within one of the pillars
The Cathedral from another angle
I can't remember what they call this piece of glass, but there is a rock from the moon in the center. The rock was a gift from the Apollo 11 crew.
Two more beautiful windows
This window is HUGE! It's the one at the front of the Cathedral.
One of the alters at the back of the Cathedral
View from the back looking through the choir towards the front. Can you see the way the windows bring in so much color. Way awesome. The choir started singing an arrangement of "A Mighty Fortress is Our God" and it was powerful.
#42 - U.S. Supreme Court
This place is cool. Here's some pictures...
This is a scale model of the court room. It's amazing. Very grand and authoritative
The entire building is made of solid marble - AND it came in under budget back in the 1930's when it was built. It's beautiful. Especially this hallway that reminds me of Lord of the Rings. I can see the Justices riding up the steps on horses. Yeah, I'm weird.
Here's a picture of the courtroom from outside the door - which is as close as you can get to taking a picture IN the actual courtroom.
This is one of the beautiful rooms on the side of the courtroom.
#46 - Washington Monument
I've see the monument each day, but a few weeks ago I went at night with my friend Amanda. Here are some of our pictures...
View of the White House from the Monument. Blurry cuz my camera doesn't take good pictures at night (well, at anytime for that matter).
#47 - White House
YES, I went to the White House a few weeks ago. You are not allowed to take camera's inside, so I have NO pictures of the inside. However, today the White House had a special event for "special guests" only: a White House Garden Tour. I was able to get two tickets from Congressman Chaffetz - THANKS, by the way - and Amanda and I went and walked around the White House gardens. Although it was rainy, it was wonderful. So cool to be RIGHT there. Here are pictures:
Um, I totally stepped in mud right before this picture was taken. This is one of the Kennedy Gardens. So nice. On the EAST wing.
Amanda looking cute in front of the Obama Balcony.
Me in front of the West Entrance
I love this picture. That's me in front of the Oval Office. By the way, here's a good time to announce that I have obtained, through my cunning ways - haha, a tour of the West Wing. Impossible, unless you have friends in high places. Thanks Devin! Note: It's all about networking.
Two pictures looking into the Oval Office. YOu can see the flag next to the President's desk, his desk, and the picture of Lincoln in both pictures if you look close.
This is where the two Obama girls play. Right beside the West Wing. What a good daddy.
Another reason why I need a good camera - you can hardly see the beautiful White House behind us... and the clouds and rain, yada yada...
This is the Children's Garden. All the grand-kids of Previous Presidents have their hand prints here. Can you imagine what might happen if Romney is elected President? There will be thousands of hands here...
#48 - WWII Memorial
This memorial is one of the best. I went at night (since that's the best time to feel the drama and awe of these memorials) and was so touched by my experience. This monument lies between the Washington Monument and Lincoln Memorial. Here are pictures. Sorry that they don't look great... the camera, again!
And here are a few pictures from when I saw the Lincoln Memorial at night...
Tuesday, October 06, 2009
And the First Democrat to Join the Ranks of the Hill Humans Is...
CONGRESSMAN JIM MATHESON
I met the Congressman tonight at a meeting here at the Barlow Center. I like the guy. We share a lot of the same feelings about how business is done in Washington - we both dislike the radicals on both sides. But that's besides the point.... He didn't really want to do the Hill Human picture, and I really tried to get him warmed up to the idea, but all he consented to do was smile and show the thumbs... I think the bigger than normal smile is cause I was really getting into it to make him feel more comfortable. Ah, whatever. Anyways, congrats to the Congressman for joining the Ranks of the Hill Humans.
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