The Shire

Energy Policy: Beyond Right or Left

2010-08-22T11:36:00.003-05:00

As Oklahomans, we are blessed with abundant natural energy resources. Source rocks containing rich natural gas and oil abound below the surface in our state while wind, the sun, and precious plant life used in bio-fuels are plentiful above the surface. Our problem is not a lack of resources, it is the lack of creative energy policy to harness both traditional hydrocarbons and new sources of sustainable power. Instead of forward thinking energy policy that utilizes all of Oklahoma’s energy potential, we continue to bicker over any changes to the oil and gas industry, rely on coal as a primary source of electric generation, and lag behind others in the embrace of green collar jobs. This is a tragedy because Oklahoma, with its resources and strategic location, is in the perfect position to lead the way nationally with an energy policy model of blended energy production and consumption. Unfortunately, just like other vital issues in our country, energy policy has been caught up in the squabbling of right and left politics.

We have heard it all before: the right wants more off-shore drilling, drilling in nationally protected land, and no new regulation of carbon emission or taxes on energy companies while the left wants crippling new carbon emission standards, increased taxes on traditional energy producers, and more government money spent on R&D for renewable sources of energy. Neither side wants to give an inch to the other because in this political game to compromise is to lose. The real loser here is us. We continue to import more oil from abroad every year, maintain energy policies built around petroleum and dirty coal, move at a tragically slow pace to embrace the near unlimited supply of natural gas produced here in America, and stand idle as emerging countries such as China and India lead the way in green technology and manufacturing.

We must move beyond the tired left and right politics in our current energy policy. Energy policy does not have to be a zero-sum game. To make this point, we need to look no further than the country’s lagging economy and record unemployment. Herein lies an opportunity to recognize the potential of energy development to create more jobs, not only jobs the left seeks from producing more green collar jobs, but also jobs the right wants from producing more American oil and natural gas. Both green collar jobs and the oil and natural gas industry can clearly play a role in putting Americans back to work. The oil and natural gas industry in the U.S. already supports more than 9 million American jobs (more than 100,000 in Oklahoma) and can create many more. The Center for American Progress reports that, in the past couple years, we have created 1.2 million green jobs and there is the potential for more, especially in Oklahoma. We could be a leader in wind energy creation, technology, and manufacturing, as well as leading through policy created to maximize the use of clean affordable natural gas.

The connection between forward thinking energy policy and more jobs is strong. Unfortunately, the evidence of partisan politics in energy policy is stronger. As Oklahomans and Americans, we need to move beyond political partisanship and work together to create smart, forward thinking energy and economic policy that will secure our energy future and get Americans working again.

Energy Column

2010-08-10T17:00:00.000-05:00

I was watching one of those animated films with my son the other night. It along with popcorn has become a Friday night ritual. The main character in the movie was a Panda Bear attempting to fulfill his dream of becoming something great. We can all resonate with a character like that, a character set on changing his or her lot in life. The problem was he was focused on what he had not been able to accomplish yet and what he needed to be in the future all while neglecting what he currently was. At a very strategic point when the Panda was indulging himself with food to cope with rejection another character, a wise turtle offered this advice to his situation, “the past is history, the future is a mystery, but today is a gift which is why it’s called the present.”

I have been thinking about that line in the movie a lot as I prepared to write this first Energy Column for the OKPolitico. Thanks to Kyle Loveless I have been provided the opportunity to investigate and write about issues concerning energy and energy policy in Oklahoma and as far as I am concerned there could not be a more important time or subject as we approach election season again.

The world is running out of hydrocarbons, mankind has created great environmental disasters scouring the earth for more of them (the Gulf spill is the latest example), and burning coal to heat homes or produce electricity is bad for the environment.

Each of these statements are true, however, the problem is like the Panda in the movie to many of us are focused on blaming others for what has already happened and the rest of us are either scaring everyone with doomsday scenarios that may or may not occur or attempting to profit on the production of energy regardless of the consequences to others or the environment. In reality what we need to do is focus on solutions that will impact the present, which in turn will naturally alter the future.

This column will focus on energy issues in Oklahoma. The energy industry is the largest industry in our state and because of that it affects Oklahoman’s in many ways: our pocketbooks, our quality of life, transportation, income, tax revenue (which is used to pay for a large portion of state spending), the environment, and hundreds more. This column will raise important issues concerning research and design, production, development, sale, and use of all different types of energy created here in Oklahoma. In this column I hope to educate readers on positions relating to energy taken by influential municipal, civic, state, and federally elected leaders.

My desire is not to persuade readers but to offer information relevant for you to make educated decisions on important energy matters. I am not naïve enough to believe good energy policy should shed itself of all dependence on hydrocarbons nor am I enough of an idealist to believe all our energy needs can be met by alternative sources alone. But as a father of two and a proud Okie I know if I spend too much time holding others accountable for bad energy policy in the past or dreaming about a cleaner, safer, and more sustainable future I will overlook what the wise turtle described as the gift of the present.

Let’s take this gift and do the best we can to create a better smarter more efficient energy plan for Oklahoma.

The Need for Deficit Spending

2009-12-11T10:53:00.001-06:00

There has been plenty of debate both at the federal and state level concerning the additional spending of any money during this economic recession. In Oklahoma, politicians and constituents alike speak strongly against further spending of federal dollars on any programs other than those targeting defense or homeland security. As recent as this summer in Oklahoma there was a conservative populist outcry on display at town hall meetings reprimanding elected officials for considering any legislation that increased the nation’s deficit. Nevertheless, the fact remains our economy is in a deep hole and faces a staggering ascent back to full employment. Federal and state lawmakers can make that ascent easier by strengthening and adding to existing stimulus programs, particularly those related to unemployment, medical, and food benefits. Would this add to an already burgeoning national debt? The answer is unequivocally yes, but it is also the only way to avoid even higher debt in the longer term.

The economist John Maynard Keynes advocated that when an economy has high unemployment, an increase in government purchases (deficit spending) creates a market for business output thus creating income and encouraging increases in consumer spending, which in turn creates a further increase in the demand for business production. This is often referred to as the multiplier effect. Much has been debated about this Keynesian approach (deficit spending) to fiscal policy. With good reason Oklahomans are skeptical about charging more to our federal credit card. However, the problem with Keynes approach to fiscal policy is not inherently its position concerning deficit spending in a recession but the lack of political courage to increase revenues during non-recessionary times to rebalance the system. For decades state and federal governments alike have used deficit spending to stimulate lagging economies during recessions. Only to pass legislation in non-recessionary periods, such as what the Republican-controlled legislature in Oklahoma has done in recent years reducing the state income tax from a top rate of 6.65 percent to 5.5 percent costing the state hundreds of millions of dollars, thus depriving governments of needed revenue to pay off past debt. For state and federal leaders to demand policies aimed at reigning in budgets during a recession by cutting spending and refusing to raise taxes or even providing tax breaks during non-recession periods is irresponsible at best and cowardly at worst.

More than ever before, we need Oklahoma’s state and congressional leaders to speak out regarding another stimulus program. Most of the federal assistance allocated in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) that states received for Medicaid programs, education, and other services is scheduled to end on December 31, 2010. Even though that seems like a distant future, the problem is relevant now. Oklahoma much like other states, which face huge budget shortfalls, is planning their budget for state fiscal year 2011 during this spring’s legislative session.

According to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities budget cuts for fiscal year 2010 are $166 billion across 48 states, with at least 39 states cutting programs targeting the most vulnerable residents. Recent statistics in Oklahoma from the Oklahoma Policy Institute reported a budget deficit approaching 700 million in 2009-10 and a possible deficit of the same in 2010-11 and 2011-2012. To close budget gaps during this recession, most states have already implemented cutbacks in nearly all state programs (Oklahoma has instituted a 5% cut). Unfortunately, these cutbacks disproportionately affect women, children, and the elderly and stifle future economic growth potential. The bottom line is if states do not know if they will receive any additional federal fiscal relief they will be forced to institute much more severe budget cuts in 2011 and 2012.

Fiscal responsibility is a must when the United States emerges from this historic recession. Oklahoma and the country will need steadfast leadership to tackle this escalating problem. But now is the time for greater deficits and stimulus programs aimed at boosting employment, encouraging new areas of private industrial growth, and providing relief to those struggling to keep a roof over their head and food on the table.

Auto Industry Bailout

2008-11-19T13:30:00.002-06:00

Reading the New York Times this morning I came across a good op-ed piece concerning the fate of the auto industry in the United States. While I can say I would usually vehemently disagree with the author, I thought he made some good points in this article. Obviously the issue is complex, however, I fail to understand how providing companies more money to spend on dysfunctional policies does anyone any good in the long run. Thomas Friedman wrote a good piece (NY Times) about this last week as well if anyone is interested.

http://www.nytimes.com/2008/11/19/opinion/19romney.html?partner=permalink&exprod=permalink

Failing Economy

2008-11-13T09:47:00.002-06:00

I am trying to think my way through the bailout of U.S. companies. On the one hand I realize letting major companies collapse will have a negative trickle down effect on the economy and Americans as a whole. However, on the other hand I fear the cultural precident being set that rewards companies not just for bad business but for unabashed greed. It seems, that in retrospect Americans will look back in 5-10 years and realize that, as in so many other instances they were "duped" by corporate America.

When the dot com bubble burst in the late 90's Americans should have learned a lesson. We should have reminded ourselves that "get rich quick" investment schemes are never as great as they appear. We should have worked together to establish forward thinking technologies and industries of the future. Spending money on the kinds of ideas that last and make us better. Instead, we moved on to the "next" great investment idea, which in this case happended to be the housing market. We all know the story, a little bit of speculating here and some deregulation there throw in some greed and you have the recipee for the latest economic disaster.

Greed has been the downfall of more that one civilization and I am afraid that without a systemic change in the cultural mindset of leaders in America, history will add the United States to the list. Everyone knows you can't spend more money than you make and expect a good turn out in the end. So why don't we hold the corporate world and government officials accountable to these bankrupt principles. It's simple, because we don't even hold ourselves to these principles. If we want real change in America we all have to take some real responsibility, and fiscal responsibility should be at the top of the list.

You Know Spring is coming in Oklahoma

2008-03-02T20:22:00.003-06:00

You know spring is coming in Oklahoma when you get 10 live hours of weather coverage commercial free. I swear these weather guys probably wear diapers so they can stay live without using the can. For all the fuss most of the storms do no more harm than make some noise and bring much needed rain. But, the way they report you would think you should strap yourself to a deep well with Bill Paxton and Helen Hunt as the "beast" blows overhead. I don't mean to imply that tornadoes aren't dangerous and shouldn't be taken seriously I just hate the non-stop coverage of: heavy rain, heavy sideways rain, hook echo's, strong wind, nickel sized hail, and it's going to be loud. Really! Thanks for that update weather guy.

It's 8:30 in Yukon, and .....it's raining. Honestly, I kind of like storms. They remind you of just how powerful nature is, and why as stewards of the kingdom we need to take care of this planet. Cheers.

Politics

2008-02-29T20:35:00.006-06:00

I am a political junkie. There it is, I have finally admitted it. I have been so enthralled by the 2008 Presidential election cycle. Much to my wife's chagrin I read two or three different political blogs each day, have watched all of the Democratic debates (mostly on youtube since we don't have cable), and get geeked up for primary days. Before I began collecting data for my dissertation on Sunday mornings I would watch at least two of the morning political wrap-ups (Meet the Press, and Sunday Morning with George Steaphanopolus being my favorite). I'll even admit I was more excited about Super Tuesday than the Super Bowl.

This isn't the post to divulge into my political preferences but I wanted to call attention to something I believe to be troubling. Sexism. That's right I said it, sexism. From all of the attention I have paid to this election cycle I believe a pattern of sexism has emerged. Honestly, I find that it is often blatantly employed. However, unlike when race has been an issue in this contest gender had garnered far less attention and outcry. The problem is, when feminists raise the issue of gender Hillary must dampen their voice for fear of loosing male voters, and when non-feminist male or female's raise the issue of gender Hillary must dampen their voice as well for fear of loosing votes for not being strong and a leader. Ironically, Obama has been the candidate to employ more feminine characteristics in this contest, reaping huge rewards.

Not only has Hillary had to adopt more masculine characteristics to get where she has in her career but now that she has almost reached the summit the rules have changed. I for one am tired of seeing political cartoons, and listening to pundits and columnists alike frame her as the "angry female" hungry for power. If Hillary where a man (perfect example: Bill) her qualities would be viewed as ambition, drive, and leadership. The U.S. has always been ready for another male president, but clearly, as this contest has shown not sure about a female running the show.

Why Indiana did the right thing: Twice

2008-02-27T20:19:00.002-06:00

For those of you who know me well, you know my love for Indiana Basketball. Well it has been a rough couple of weeks in Hoosierland but I wanted to write briefly about why Indiana did the right thing--twice. First, Indiana did the right thing by hiring Kelvin Sampson. Sampson was and still is a top notch coach who seems to deeply care about his players and their well being. Also, I believe in second chances and Kelvin was given his by one of the best basketball programs in the country. Second, Indiana did the right thing by firing Sampson now instead of at the end of the season. It would have been easy to keep him around with the team playing as well as they are and the Dance just around the corner. But, it would have sent the wrong message about breaking rules and paying consequences (especially when its your second chance). Firing Sampson sends the right message which is: Even if you coach at one of the top institutions in the country, are able to recruit star players, and are having an incredible season, if you cheat, than as Hedi Klum would say on Project Runway "Kelvin your out". Unfortunately in situations such as this the players suffer as well. Even though its been rough being a Hoosier fan the past couple of weeks its heartening to know the institution is making good decisions. Heres to a deep run in the Big Dance!

Star Wars

2008-02-23T23:20:00.002-06:00

On the way to OU the other day I was listening to a panel discuss the week's news on NPR. I wasn't surprised to hear them jockey back and forth over presidential politics or the state of the economy but one topic left me numb. Star Wars. No, not the great space fantasy series created by George Lucas. The state of the art defense system with weapons in space! The conversation was started because of the successful mission to shoot down a crippled American spy satellite. The panel talked as if this mission would re-ignite the charge to arm space. A reporter from the Times confirmed that the Bush Administration has had conversations in the past couple of years about the prospect of starting a Star Wars program (to the tune of multiple hundreds of billions of dollars).

I haven't posted many feelings on my blog concerning issues of war, terrorism, defense spending, etc., but after hearing such a discussion on NPR I felt moved to speak. We now spend more money on defense (2008 projections) than every other country in the world combined. The United States defense spending has now eclipsed over 30% of our total spending budget. This is an outrage! Tonight as I blog there are people who lie awake with hunger, others dying of disease, some fearful of ethnic cleansing, and still others simply trying to figure out how to pay next months bills. These things take place, all while the United States pours more money into creating newer more high-tech machines of destruction. Is it not bad enough that we already have the weaponry to destroy the earth, now we may be pursuing weapons in space?

I believe it is time to write my senators and congresspersons again, to express my deep concern and outrage over excessive defense spending (especially in times of recession, growing poverty in America, and worldwide disdain for American foreign policy) and my absolute opposition to any kind of arms race in space. I hope some of you will join me in this important endeavor. God's Peace and goodnight.

Grading Papers

2008-02-21T15:07:00.002-06:00

After reading the first essay my Introduction to Sociology class turned in, I think I am depressed. I'm sure there has always been an element of paper writing that included methods to "make your paper seem longer than it really is" (i.e. by shrinking the margins, creating extra space, and using a giant font),but this practice has gotten out of hand. It is almost as if students spent an equal amount of time writing as they did working the Microsoft magic to make their papers the desired length. I know what your thinking, just dictate what is or is not acceptable right? I did, and students still turned it in manipulated. Part of me wants to simply give them no points but then the idealist in me screams, "where is the learning in that". I teach socialization I should know better. These students didn't learn to "doctor" their papers at college, they learned they could get away with sub-par work and manipulation earlier in their educational background. Additionally, students today reflect the "get away with what you can" cultural norm. Right now I am depressed at the quality of work I have been given, but tomorrow I will be back in the classroom doing the best I can to motivate students to do better.

Baseball Picks

2007-09-02T09:57:00.000-05:00

It is a sad day. As I sit here and contemplate which teams will be playing in October I know my Braves will not be one of them. Last year was tough to swallow for a Braves fan but this year has been worse. I hate to say it but the Braves might be entering the dreaded rebuilding years. With that said here are my picks.

AL- Red Sox, Indians, Angels, Yankees (wild card)

NL- Mets, Cubs, Padres, Phillies (wild card)

ALCS- Red Sox vs Angels
NLCS- Padres vs Phillies

World Series- Red Sox vs Padres (Sox in 5 games)

ABD

2007-08-29T16:02:00.000-05:00

Today I finished my general exams. After completing the written portion the first week of August , I had to wait until today to complete the oral exam. I am glad it is over. I passed by the way. I am now in that tenuous state know as ABD (all but dissertation). This is the haunted position that so many arrive at and do not write the dissertation. I'll have you know I have already picked a topic and begun to collect data. I am also applying for jobs beginning the fall of 2008. Some of the schools on my list to apply to are: Williamette Univ, Hope College, Kalamazoo College, Coe College, Berea College, Knox College, Concordia Univ, and Augustana College. It is a busy time with dissertation, teaching for the first time, applying for jobs, and spending time with family and friends. Luckily, I have been blessed with an incredibly supportive wife during this academic pursuit.

That said, I have missed blogging and wished my contributions to the blogisphere were not dictated by my schedule but such is life. Check in periodically for I hope to write more this fall. According to my younger brother my next blog needs to be my baseball playoff predictions. However, I have been putting this off because of how poorly the Braves have been playing and the inevitability of them not making the playoffs for a second straight year. Never fear, my picks are up next KD. Blessings to you all.

10 books (tagged again)

2007-07-23T12:53:00.000-05:00

While I do not have the time to answer both of the tag's my good friend Monty has bestowed upon me I thought I would answer the one on 10 influential books. Influential is a funny thing. Some of the books on my list have been influential however in a way that has simply broadened my imagination and love for literature. 10 is so difficult but here we go, in no particular order.

1. J. R. Tolkien The Lord of the Rings Trilogy (the movies were great but the books are incredible)
2. J. K Rowling The Harry Potter Series (don't anyone spoil the ending the final book is waiting for me after I finish my general exams)
3. John Howard Yoder The Politics of Jesus (the first Yoder book I ever read, one of many great books he has written)
4. Dietrich Bonhoffer Life Together (what an amazing individual)
5. Jonathon Kozol Amazing Grace (Kozol's books get to the heart of social inequality in America, anything he writes is a must read)
6. Karl Marx The Communist Manifesto (A short book written with Engels that lays the foundation for what could only be utopia, that is a world of total equality)
7. Henri Nouwen The Inner Voice of Love (the short readings in this book are soul touching)
8. Sharon Hays Flat Broke with Children (another book dealing with inequality, Hays helps to mainstream issues concerning gender inequality, child poverty, and the need for a comprehensive social welfare program that benefits poor women with children)
9. Khaled Hosseini A Thousand Splendid Suns (a book I will use when I teach undergraduate gender, it is a moving, an heart wrenching account of two women's lives in Afghanistan)
10. William and Martha Sears The Baby Book (no list would be complete in my life right now without a book concerning babies, the book by the Sears is great and has been such a help to my wife and I with our son Luca).

I look forward to writing more when these dreaded exams are finished. I am two weeks out and ready to be done with them. I can not recall who Monty tagged but if you visit the Shire and you blog your it. Peace be with you.

I've been Tagged

2007-07-04T08:28:00.001-05:00

My friend Monty has officially tagged me with the task of sharing the top 10 songs on my ipod. I am assuming he just hit the shuffle button and let the songs lie where they may. I am going to do the same thing. This is what I came up with:
1. Beautiful Day: U2 (The Best of 1990-2000)
2. La Partida: The Motorcycle Diaries Soundtrack (Gustavo Santaolalla)
3. Nightingale: Norah Jones (Come Away with Me)
4. Body Language: Boney James (Body Language)
5. Higher: Creed (Human Clay)
6. Romanza: Andrea Bocelli (Best of Andrea Bocelli)
7. Equality: A sermon by Robin Meyers (pastor of Mayflower Congregational Church)
8. Say Goodbye: Dave Matthews Band (Crash)
9. Young: Kenny Chesney (No Shoes No Shirt No Problem)
10. Lively Up Yourself: Bob Marley and the Wailers (Bob Marley Reggae Legend)

I tag- Che (The Cosmopolis), John (Common Prayers), Richard (Fides Quaerens Intellectum)

The Shire Faithful

2007-07-04T08:19:00.000-05:00

I apologize for my disappearing act. I am under increasing stress and time constraint to prepare for my general exams the first week of August. I feel as if I am running out of time to store all of the information I need to know away in my mind. My committee chairpersons words of advice were simply, "I know your stressed but there is a reason they don't hand PhD's out like candy". All of this to say over the course of the next month my posts will be sparse if I have the chance to post at all. Never fear, after August 9th I will return to my old self (speaking of which I have now officially entered the decade known as the 30's). I appreciate those of you who have continued to encourage my publishing on this site. I will try not to let you down further.

Everyone needs a good friend.

2007-06-03T08:52:00.000-05:00

Over the weekend Jamie, Luca, and I had the opportunity to spend some time with our good friends Justin, Amy, and Caleb. I was reminded while we were there just how important good friends are. We laughed together, caught up with each others lives, ate great food (thanks Amy!), took our kids to the lake, and enjoyed one anothers company. Jamie and I feel very blessed to have a number of great friends. One of our favorite things to do since we have been married has been to go on road trips together (which is definitely different with a seven month-old). Fortunately for us, most of our destinations have been to see good friends. It is often rare when people are able to just be themselves and enjoy each others company without strings attached. When it happens it helps me to remember what grace is supposed to be. I am so thankful we have friends like Amy and Justin who offered us grace and hospitality this weekend. Thanks for a great weekend. (In the picture is Luca -on the left- and Caleb -on the right- after they went swimming in the lake)

A Needed Increase

2007-05-25T19:22:00.000-05:00

Stuck in the back of a war spending bill was a little amendment that will help thousands of poor American workers. The amendment was a raise in minimum wage from 5.15 an hour to 7.25 an hour. The change will be made over the course of the next two years in a step by step basis. Under different circumstances (a year with no war) this would have made headline news, however, it has not received much attention. The fact is there has not been an increase since 1997.

Recent economic trends reveal patterns of income stagnation, growing income insecurity, and a widening income inequality gap (Bratt et al 2006). These factors and others have led to a rapidly increasing population of poor families in the United States over the past few decades. To provide some further perspective, a full time worker employed at minimum wage in 2007 (5.15 an hour) has an annual income of roughly 11,000 dollars, which is well below the poverty line of 17,000 dollars for a family of four. While some, including a number of conservative politicians, believe that only teenagers work for minimum wage, studies show that 40% of persons making minimum wage are the sole providers for their families (Seccombe 2000). While the increase will only make a modest change in the overall income of full time minimum wage workers, at least its a start. Under new legislation in 2009 a full time worker employed at minimum wage will earn around 15, 100 dollars. Again to put this in perspective, based on data from the Economic Policy Institute a family with one parent and two children in Oklahoma City must earn 33,156 dollars a year in order to meet their basic needs such as housing, food, child care, transportation, health care, taxes, and other necessities. Workers with less than a high-school education will not meet this standard without working more than one full-time job. In fact many individuals working full-time with a high-school degree and some college still fall a couple thousand dollars a year short of making the minimum required to cover their basic needs. Poverty remains a serious problem in the United States that affects the health, social, and emotional well-being of all those experiencing it. I'm not ready to do cartwheels over the increase in minimum wage but I am glad Congress is finally admitting the poor are not just getting poorer, they aren't making enough to survive.

Ideas about status quo Politicians

2007-05-21T10:55:00.000-05:00

This post is a response to a question I was recently asked in another post, "what should politicians do to really make a difference?" I have been thinking about this question for a couple of days and will do my best to answer. However, I think in order to answer the question I need to rephrase it. I think the question should be, "what should the American public do in order to hold politicians accountable to really make a difference?" The original question makes the giant assumption that politicians think they should change the current status quo.

There was a great article on the webblog Politico.com that dealt with this very point http://www.politico.com/news/stories/0507/4086.html. To quote the article "the main reason capital culture is slow to change is that lawmakers, staff members and lobbyists have no incentive to change, except under the immediate glare of a close campaign or embarrassing scandal. The people (both parties) at the top are people that have mastered the system. To ask them to fundamentally change the system is like asking them to change the rules of a game they already know how to win." Therefore I think it is the responsibility of the public to change the kind of politician that takes office. One of my suggestions is to continue the grassroots effort to establish a viable third party in the United States. A third party would force the Republican/ Democrat two party system to manufacture real ideas for change other than relying on the usual negative rhetoric aimed at the opposing parties suggestions for change. A third party would provide a whole new set of options for the American people. In a country where people have no less than 20 options on almost anything from breakfast cereal to brand of undies it is amazing we only have two options in political candidates. There are a number of additional political parties trying to break through (Green Party, Libertarian, Centrist, etc) however many of them have been stymied by you guessed it Republicans and Democrats alike. For example in Oklahoma no additional party candidates can run for elected office other than Republicans and Democrats and under certain circumstances Independents (however independents cannot affiliate with other parties). The public should do all in its elective power to change this current two party system.

Another suggestion has to do with the way in which information is disseminated among the public. Most Americans learn information about political candidates from 20 second clips on network TV. Therefore their choice of candidate often has more to do with look and style than it does content and experience (ex. the Gore/Bush election). Al Gore's new book "The Assault on Reason decries this very point". It begins as a discourse about the one-sided, corporate-controlled television medium with no interactivity. Gore argues "that television not only creates a dynamic that runs contrary to Thomas Jefferson's desire for a "well-informed citizenry" but lulls viewers in a partially immobilized state and allows unreasoned communicators to sell false bills of goods, such as, that there was a connection between the Sept. 11 hijackers and Saddam Hussein." If there is any hope for the American public to change the status quo of the kind of politicians running our country we must have a great level of participation in the process. The interactivity Gore is talking about has been missing from our political scene for too long. In the recent presidential election in France (Sarkozy vs. Royal) the country had a nearly 82% voter turnout. In the last presidential election (heck even the mid-term elections) the U.S was lucky to scratch 40%. We are so apathetic because we have been lulled to mediocrity by the very leaders leading us. Is it any shock that when catastrophic events such as 9/11, or Katrina and Rita happen the public is outraged. Short of catastrophic events we don't give a damn. This must change.

2007-05-16T13:23:00.002-05:00

Franciscan blessing

I do not usually use material from other people's blogs, however, I was reading Brian's blog (The Urban Monk) this morning and was struck by the Franciscan blessing he posted back in April. Therefore, I wanted to re-post it if you will giving credit to Brian for bringing it to my attention. It is a powerful and challenging blessing both to comprehend and to put into practice. May God bless us all in such a way.

“May God bless you with discomfort at easy answers, half truths, and superficial relationships so that you may live deep within your heart. May God bless you with anger at injustice, oppression, and exploitation of people, so that you may wish for justice, freedom, and peace. May God bless you with enough foolishness to believe that you can make a difference in this world, so that you can do what others claim cannot be done.”

2007-05-16T13:23:00.001-05:00

The Gift of Fatherhood!

I wake from a nap, I feel his soft hands clutching my nose. I hear is high pitched giggle sing with glee. As I open my eyes I am met with his smile, an open mouth gums showing and slobber flowing. I love his smile. I will never get tired of watching my son smile. It is at these times I wish I knew what he was thinking. Does he know how much I care for him? Does he know how much I love him? He is so sweet and cuddly when he first wakes up. It is one of my favorite times to hold him. He holds me close and tucks his head under my neck. It's the best feeling in the world. Each time he reaches a new milestone (sitting up, rolling over, eating solid foods, etc.) I am excited for his growth, yet at the same time I am sad out how quickly he is growing up. I try to stop myself from saying things that start with, "I can't wait until..." Only because I know when those days arrive the earliest stages of his precious life will have passed on. I close my eyes, I can hear him breathing as he sleeps. I will soon sleep too, but not before I thank God for the gift of fatherhood.

2007-05-16T13:23:00.000-05:00

I'm Back

Sorry for the month long hiatus. As many of you know I am working on a Ph.D and this spring was my final semester of course work. Needless to say the month of April and first weeks in May were a busy time for me. With that said and a full summer ahead of studying for comprehensive exams I look forward to writing a little on this blog. So how does one ease back in to the world of blogging? Full steam ahead I say.

If I were covering the Post this week a story I would have written about would be the few U.S. House of Representatives that pledged to live on food stamps for the week. Representatives James McGovern (D-MA) , Jo Ann Emerson (R-MO) , Jan Schakowsky (D-IL) , and Tim Ryan (D-OH) have pledged to live on an average food stamp budget -- just $3 a day -- from May 15-21, 2007 and have invited other Members of Congress to join them in the Food Stamp Challenge. Even the spouses of Reps. McGovern and Emerson will be taking the challenge. These members of Congress are living on a food stamp budget for one week in order to raise visibility and understanding around the challenges that millions of low-income Americans face under current food stamp benefit levels.

What a novel idea. Live poor for a week so you can identify with how others living under similar conditions everyday get by (maybe they should try this with the war in Iraq, they would be bringing troops home yesterday). Don't get me wrong I applaud the few brave Representatives willing to at least try it, but the current gap in welfare coverage is far to wide to improve with such a gimmick. The statement that should be made is pledging to provide more coverage for the millions of low-income Americans struggling to put food on the table. Additionally, the pledge should go beyond raising visibility and understanding to a promise to resign their positions if legislation easing the burden of the working poor is not enacted. That would certainly give them good reason to actually do something for their constituents and the many other millions of working poor in America.

The problem with politics and the poor is the poor don't participate in politics. In a week we will read the outcome of these Representatives intentional poverty, its just, the week after that the reality will be the same for those not faking it. Feed my children.

It's good to be back!

2007-04-02T21:21:00.000-05:00

New Records don't necessarily mean New Results

I don't know if any of you caught the latest presidential campaign fundraising results but records were smashed. The previous record for fundraising in a quarter by any candidate was Al Gore's 8.9 million. At least three of the leading candidates from each party broke that record during the first quarter of this year, with Hillary Clinton leading the way at 26+ million. It will be a long time and through much deliberation before I choose a candidate but something really bothers me about the current trend in fundraising. I have heard speeches from at least five of the six candidates raising more than 12 million in the first quarter and each of them used rhetoric appealing to lower middle class and poor voters. I don't want to be cynic but doesn't it seem odd that in a race where everyone is talking about the growing gap between rich and poor all of the leading candidates are bringing in record funds to spend on their message to the country.

I am certain none of that money was donated by families trying to decide whether to pay the mortgage or buy food for their children. It probably wasn't donated by families struggling to afford health-care either. I seriously doubt it was donated by the rapidly growing population of poor elderly or the increasingly common full-time employee that cannot make enough working one 40 hour a week job to cover her families bills. Yet, six candidates each somehow found record amounts of cash given to their campaigns.

Should we really believe any of them when they appeal to our sense of long overdue justice for the poor? Should we get excited when they discuss new policies aimed to alleviate poverty? Are any of their ideas new or are they just another round of empty phrases? It is hard for me to believe the interests of the most in need will be served when often times their only contribution comes in the form of hope for a brighter and more equal future. Most of the pundits talk about fundraising as being a bar for determining how well the candidates are doing. Just remember new records don't always mean new results.

2007-04-01T09:48:00.000-05:00

A Great Ending

I wanted to share one of my favorite benedictions. As most of you know I have a number of reservations with the church, but I also have hope in many of its leaders. One leader in particular I have been drawn to is pastor Robin Meyers of the Mayflower United Church of Christ. I have listened to more sermons than I wish to recall in my life, and with out a doubt Robin is the best preacher I have heard. If you have a chance, follow this link http://www.mayflowerucc.org/listening/listening.html to the church website and listen to one of his sermons on-line (or you can download them to an MP3). The benediction I spoke of is his and he speaks these words everytime he finishes a service.

"And now may the power of God and the peace of our Lord Jesus Christ which really does pass all our understanding go with every one of us abiding in us lifting us up and making us whole, go in peace, pray for peace, and love one another. Amen."

2007-03-04T14:14:00.001-06:00

Frustrations with Church

It has generally been my belief that going to church on a regular basis was an important component in a persons Christian identity. I grew up going to church every Sunday morning, evening, (my brothers and I always complained about Sunday night church) and Wednesday nights. Even when I went to college and was on my own I still went to church almost every Sunday and Wednesday night. Ironically, it wasn't until I went to seminary that I began to question my church attendance. At least I began to ask myself, why do I go to church? I suppose there is a part of me that has yet to answer that question. Having an MA in Christian Education I am sure I could come up with a good theological reason for going to church. Even my background in Sociology gives good reason to go to church (that is people who attend religious services on a regular basis generally live longer and healthier lives than those who do not attend).

Jamie and I went to our eighth different church this morning in Oklahoma City. We have tried Nazarene, Episcopal, Methodist, Disciples of Christ, and United Church of Christ churches. Each stop along this journey of locating a church has left me more frustrated than the first. I realize there is no perfect church, there are no perfect ministers, there is no perfect liturgy, and there is no group of perfect people that attend any one church. The problem is those haven't been the reasons we have been disillusioned with the churches we have attended. The fact is we have yet to attend a church where using the Sunday service as a reference point we felt the church super-ceded the downfalls of our modern capitalist society.

Why do churches feel so compelled to build new additions, buy more high-tech gadgets, print more colorful bulletins, spend more money on programs for people already in church, have American flags on their pulpits, have cheesy meet and great opportunities, preach messages focused on hyper-individuality, and have leaders who insist upon running the church like a business. Why can't churches be satisfied with the buildings and equipment they have, not get sucked into the trap of believing they must constantly upgrade in order to keep parishioners happy or newcomers coming, spend less money on unnecessary items (color bulletins) and programs, have religious symbols only on pulpits not nationalistic icons, teach authenticity and community so newcomers experience warmth by simply being there and not being overrun with cheesy addresses of "are you new here we're so happy your with us this morning" (a simple good morning would suffice), preach messages of community, connectedness, and anti-individualism, and finally have leaders who insist upon running the church as if Jesus were going to return instead of modeling perfect business strategies.

It is certainly possible that this kind of church exists, we just have not found it yet. Never fear there are a least a thousand other churches in Oklahoma City we have yet to try.

Why do you go or not go to church?

2007-02-09T21:42:00.000-06:00

Nothing to Say

I sat down this evening thinking to myself I need to blog. Why would I need to blog? Sometimes I feel guilty for having a blog with a few readers and only random postings (as if my not writing is really ruining their day, thats a laugh in itself). Sometimes I feel like I have something to say, only to sit down and find that nothing comes out. Sometimes I just think its cool to have a blog. Sometimes I actually say something I am proud of and look forward to reading comments. I suppose there is nothing wrong with any of the above, I just wish writing thoughts came a little easier. Does anyone ever read something and think, "I could have written that"? I have that thought from time to time, but it usually goes away when I actually sit to write something. So without really saying anything I am trying to say something. Peace.

2007-01-14T21:25:00.000-06:00

Pleasant Memories

It was a cold and dark wintery day in the hills of Transylvania. I had been in Romania for nearly five months and had fallen in love with the country and its people. I was leaving the church I worked at after Wednesday night activities and walking the mile or so back home. I suppose it was after ten o'clock but for some reason time did not matter as much when I lived in Romania. My walk home took me through the heart of the old city, it was magnificent. The city walls (over 700 years old) still wrapped their way around the city climbing higher in some sections than others. Next I would walk over the bridge that separated the city from the outskirts of town. Under it flowed a river that in the winter would often have chunks of ice in it flowing down stream. The homes were small by American standards but somehow to me they always felt just right. This place was truly magical. I remember when I would take this walk home I would think of my friends and family back in Oklahoma. I would look up at the sky and think to myself that the stars I see and the moon that provides light for my walk would shine the same for them only hours later. I loved walking at night. I loved the snow covered roof tops and empty streets. It was a peaceful place.

This evening I took my dogs for an evening stroll. While this does not sound like much of an adventure I must add that the temperature was below 20 degrees and we walked on 3-4 inches of snow and ice. I took them down a country road near my home letting them run off their leashes and enjoying the cold winter air. As we walked I remembered my time in Romania. Perhaps it was the snow on the ground and the cold air while I walked that brought back memories. It could have been that while I was out I saw only one vehicle in an otherwise busy city. Whatever it was it was special to me. As I walked back towards our neighborhood and saw the snow covered homes and chimmneys pouring out smoke I remembered to look up at the sky. I was thinking to myself that earlier this evening my friends and adopted family in Romaina had no doubt looked at the same sky.

Now that my walk is over, I am thankful for the warmth of my home and especially for the beauty of God's creation when covered in snow. Servus, buna nopte!

2007-01-12T10:57:00.000-06:00

Wintery Day

So far the winter in Oklahoma has been mild at best. I was sharing with my cousin just the other day that only once this entire winter have I needed pants instead of shorts to exercise outside in. I suppose all of that is about to change. The local weather men are all in a fuss about an ice-storm moving in from the North. If any of you have ever had the good fortune to watch the weather forecast in Oklahoma City you know what I mean when I say the forecast bends towards the sensational more often than not. I am not sure I have ever heard one of them say to build an ark, or chop down a tree for firewood but no doubt their forecasts stimulate the local economy. I have made the mistake in the past to visit a local Walmart after a particularly fantastic forecast only to find lines longer than a rock concert and staples such as water, bread, and milk all cleaned out.

The weather has finally turned cold and I can hear the ice pitter patter against the window as I sip coffee and write. I love weather such as this. It forces everyone to slow down a bit and catch up on the simple things. I made an extra large pot of coffee today with the intention of slowly working my way through it as the day gets colder and the storm covers the ground with an icy mist. I am reading a book recommended by one of my good friends Che. It is a novel by Wendall Berry titled Jayber Crow. I am only a third of the way through it but a couple of the main themes revolve around what it means to call a place home and the merits of living a simple life. I hope all who visit the Shire today find comfort and warmth in the place you call home and think of ways to simplify your life. Whether or not the storm ends up as bad as forecasted no one will know until it is over. I'll keep you posted.

2007-01-04T15:32:00.000-06:00

Ishmael

I just finished a very unique novel by Daniel Quinn. It was suggested to me by one of my professors. Unlike other novels I have read this one was originally written as a short story in 1977. Quinn altered the story ever so slightly six more times, adding the character Ishmael in his eighth attempt and book length version that was published in 1992. My initial impression of this book was that it started well, became a little verbose in the middle, and finished strong. I think the final 70 pages or so are the book's best. The book opens with a personals ad: "Teacher seeks pupil. Must have an earnest desire to save the world." Searching for something bigger than himself, a young man answers the ad and is surprised to find that the teacher is a gorilla named Ishmael. I know, its strange right? However, Quinn does a great job creating a back story for Ishmael that allows the reader to gain a sense of comfort with his character. After this initial meeting Ishmael and the man who answers his ad thrust into a meaningful dialogue about creation and the fate of the world dictated by mankind's greed and need to control. Without giving to much away, Ishmael describes to parallel stories that are simultaneously taking place. He labels them the "takers" and the "leavers". Without reading any of the book you can already sense the direction Quinn is taking with his commentary on humanity. One of my favorite lines in the book comes near the end when Ishmael's pupil finally begins to make sense of Ishmael's lessons. "Yes. Far and way the most futile admonition Christ ever offered was when he said. 'Have no care for tomorrow. Don't worry about whether you're going to have something to eat. Look at the birds of the air. They neither sow nor read nor gather into barns, but God takes perfect care of them. Don't you think he'll do the same for you? In our culture the overwhelming answer to that question is, Hell no!" For any of you that are interested in reading novels check this book out. As far as novels are concerned it is rather short and will not take you much time to read. I would love to know what some of you think of it. In the end I think Ishmael is a story of hope, and as an aspiring Christian what more can we ask for than hope?

2006-12-15T13:52:00.000-06:00

The Joy of Coffee

One of my favorite things to do in the mornings is to have a few cups of joe whilst hashing out ideas with friends at some local eating establishment. Until this morning it had been at least eight weeks or so since I have had the time to meet with my good friend Jason Rowinski at a little Vietnamese doughnut shop for coffee and conversation. As an added bonus, with us this morning was my dad. We don't have any agenda when we meet, or any set topics we discuss. It is simply a time of sharing about life, discussing ideas (often related to the church), revealing frustrations with society, or just talking shop (i.e. politics, sports, and recently read books). For many of you who read the Shire, it has been to long since we have shared this pleasantry together. I don't know what it is about coffee and conversations about life, but they go together quite well. Perhaps its the caffeine that gets the creative juices flowing, or maybe the nostalgia of the "coffee shop" that makes us feel comforted, I would like to think it has more to do with the company your with than anything. While it is often that I am challenged by the conversations I have over coffee with friends or family it is always the time spent together that I cherish the most. In our world filled with meaningless things that vie for our attention/time how often do we have to opportunity to escape into an eatery to share a cup of joe with a good friend. I feel blessed today that I had that opportunity.

2006-12-13T09:23:00.000-06:00

It has been a long time

For all of the loyal Shire readers I hope my two month absence from this blog has not deterred you from reading future posts. Once my son Luca was born in mid-October everything was essentially put on hold for awhile. Luca is now eight weeks old and I think his mother and I have finally started to adjust to our new life. I suppose the fact the fall semester has ended also has something to do with my having more time. Honestly, I have been thinking about blogging for the past several days but did not pull the trigger. I don't know about some of you whom have a blog of your own (Monty excluded, because he blogs everyday) but I get bloggers block (the equivalent to writers block but in the online form). I guess at times I put so much pressure on myself to write something interesting that I end up writing nothing at all. Maybe that means I have nothing interesting to say, maybe not. Interesting or not I think I'll keep giving the blog a go. So for the few of you who visit the Shire look for posts in the future.

2006-10-20T17:10:00.000-05:00

It's a Boy

For all of those who visit the Shire I thought I would share with you a photo of my son Luca Elijah Dunnington. He was born on Tuesday October 17th at 3:57 in the afternoon. He weighed 7 pounds and 11 ounces and is 21 inches long. He has huge hands and feet! Jamie was incredible. She had to endure 45 hours of labor (Luca would not turn) in order to finally meet our little boy. She did the first 31 hours with no drugs because she had wanted to try a "natural" childbirth. It was difficult to see her in so much pain but she stuck with it as long as she could. There were other complications that made her labor difficult. She got an infection in her uterus that caused her to run a fever and the baby's heart rate to rise. After 44 hours our doctor basically told us she had given a valiant effort but it was time to take the baby by c-section. She gave Jamie one chance to push and see if Luca would turn, and he finally did. It only took her four more good pushes and we were face to face with our son for the first time. I cannot put the experience into words yet, but I will say it was one of the most incredible things I have ever seen or experienced in my life. For those of you that were praying for us, I know it helped. God has bestowed such a blessing upon us and we are thankful for his presence in our lives, thanks be to God. More later, now sleep!

2006-10-09T09:14:00.000-05:00

An Update

For those of you who have visited the Shire recently looking for new posts I must apologize. The level of excitement (and consequently distraction) in the Dunnington household has risen with each day in October as Jamie and I await the birth of our first child. It is an understatement to say that it has been difficult to concentrate on much other than baby preparations and last minute time spent with Jamie. When I started this blog I envisioned myself contributing on a much more regular basis. I still have hopes of that in the future. For now I will contribute when I can and shamelessly add photos of our newborn when he or she arrives (for those of you who do not know we decided not to find out the baby's sex). This was an intentional act for two reasons. First, we thought it would be fun to have it as a surprise and therefore raise the level of anticipation for that first look at the baby. Second, and perhaps I will write about this more later, we intentionally chose not to find out so that our little one could not be socially gendered more than they are going to be before they ever arrived. We have an OB appointment this morning and all signs point towards a birth in the next week or two. Please pray for us as we enter into this next step in our relationship. I will keep you all updated. Peace be with you.

2006-09-24T12:25:00.000-05:00

A Prayer for today

Lord God Almighty and everlasting Father, you have brought me in safety to this new day. Preserve me with your mighty power, that I may not fall into sin, nor be overcome by adversity and in all I do direct me to the fulfilling of your purpose through Jesus Christ my Lord. Amen.

May the Lord Jesus Christ be real in the lives of those who visit the Shire today and may her influence in your lives alter the way you deal with others. Peace be with you.

2006-09-21T09:18:00.000-05:00

Understanding United States Foreign Policy

Understanding the United States foreign policy is like understanding economics in the United States. If you are in the in-group then life is good and support is just around the corner. However if you are in the out-group then standard rhetoric does not apply (translation-tough luck loser). At the United Nations this week President Bush hailed the spread of democracy in the world. He stated in his address to the UN that our country is committed to the cause of democracy and stands against nations who oppose it. Likewise, in his second inaugural address a couple years ago Bush spoke about ending tyranny in our world through democracy and freedom.

I have recently written about the violence and tragedy in the Sudan. It is difficult for me to grasp how as an American I am supposed to believe the President when he speaks of ending tyranny and promoting democracy when we stand idly by and witness genocide in Sudan. Is this not tyranous, is this not terrorism, is Sudan not an Arab country like Iraq or Iran, yet we do not get involved. The way our government picks and chooses which countries it will support and which it will not is disgraceful. If we really supported democracy in the world then why just this week did we do nothing when the democratically run government of Thailand fell in a military coup? Is it because the PM of Thailand was not on the Presidents "rulers I like list"? Truth is relations between the countries had been strained recently (translation-good luck with that coup thing PM Shinawatra). If democracy is democracy and we state that we will defend democracy then should we not support it when it is openly attacked? The same situation applies elsewhere in the world when we say nothing to countries such as Egypt or Saudi Arabia who rule by fear and oppression. Or countries like Pakistan or Kazakhstan who suppress other political parties to remain in power.

So much rhetoric comes from the ruling parties in the United States about morality and justice yet our own dealings do not reveal such qualities. If we are going to sow the seeds of freedom and democracy around the world then we first need to stop picking and choosing which governments we support and which we condemn based upon how willing they are to deal with us in favorable ways. This kind of policy is reminiscent of old colonial practices when ruling countries exploited less powerful countries to maximize their own position in the power structure. Our foreign policy is full of hypocrisy and instituted militarily. We must stand up against this practice of do what we say not what we do. We must stop offering aid packages to periphery countries laden with weapons to fight their neighbors and suppress their own people. We must lead by example not through bullying. We must as a democratically run nation make known our disappointment with current leadership and discuss openly our options for the future. Whatever happen to good ole fashioned public discourse anyway.

Thoughts?

Peace be with You

2006-09-18T11:58:00.000-05:00

Copy of my letter to Oklahoma Senators and Representative

If any of you want to copy and paste this letter with the appropriate Senators and Representatives feel free. You will need to change the introduction to reflect a brief sketch of yourself, nothing long, just introduce yourself and why your interested in Darfur. I sent one to both United States Senators from Oklahoma and the Representative that represents my district. I encourage all of you to send letters. While it doesn't seem like much it is decisive action and that is what we need to bring about change. Peace be with you.

The Honorable James M. Inhofe
United States Senate
453 Russell Senate Office Building
Washington, DC 20510-3606

Dear Senator Inhofe,

My name is Jason Dunnington and I am a graduate student at the University of Oklahoma. Nearly two years ago my wife and I befriended a family in the Oklahoma City area that had recently fled the massacre in Sudan.

As you may know, since February 2003, the Sudanese government has orchestrated a campaign of racial extermination against the ethnically-distinct black African population of Darfur. The Sudanese military and the Janjaweed militias it arms have killed as many as 400,000 black Darfurians. They have bombed and burned villages throughout the region, displacing almost 3.5 million people who now cling to life as homeless refugees. They have raped and assaulted countless women, including pregnant mothers who have subsequently lost their unborn babies. The have tortured and killed men, often in front of their families.

The violence is far from over: thousands of people continue to die each month in Darfur. As a member of your constituency I am writing you to ask for your support in curbing the violence experienced each day by thousands of innocent women, men, and children. I urge you to take decisive action to ensure their safety, health, and freedom by:

1. Approving adequate funding for Darfur in the Fiscal Year 2007 funding process.

2. Passing the strongest possible version of the Darfur Peace and Accountability Act.

3. Retaining the Clinton Amendment (amendment 4361) within the Defense Authorization bill (S. 2766).

As you can see, there are concrete actions you can take to help protect civilians from murder, rape, and displacement. I encourage you to take them.

Sincerely,

Jason Dunnington

1063 Squire Mansion

Yukon, OK 73099

2006-09-17T12:25:00.000-05:00

Save Darfur

Last week while reading the Washington Post my attention was drawn to an article discussing the genocide in Darfur. As many of you know my wife and I have kind of adopted a family here in Oklahoma City displaced from the war in Sudan. We have formed a special bond with the children Jimmy (15) and Moria (13). We have known the Jamus's now for a year and a half. The issue in Sudan is especially close to my heart because of the personal relationship I have with the children. I had a conversation with a close friend on Friday and talked about the frustration I have with the feeling I can't do anything about the situation in Sudan. The activist part of me wants to get on a plane and go to Darfur to work in a refugee camp or lobby politicians in Washington to do something. There are nearly 10,000 Sudanese dying every month and if the stronger nations in the world do not get involved at a much higher level thousands more will perish. While I realize I cannot just go to Sudan or Washington to demand action I can tell all of those I know that something must happen. I can also ask all those who read this blog to take part in spreading the word about the atrocities taking place each day in Darfur. I have never done this before but I am writing a letter to my state Senators and Congressmen to ask them to have the courage to demand a UN peacekeeping force in Sudan. I can no longer look into the eyes of Jimmy and Moria and know that I have done nothing to eradicate the pain, suffering and violence that has left them displaced from their homeland. Anyone who reads this and wants to get involved please look at the website savedarfur.org or email me and I can help give you some ideas. We must all pray for peace and act in a way that takes responsibility for peace coming about.

2006-08-29T15:48:00.000-05:00

Death of a Simple Pastor

Last week on Thursday, Jamie and I spent the day in Newkirk, Oklahoma at the funeral of her grandfather. Loyd Hughes was a pastor in the Nazarene church for more than 40 years. He pastored in 17 different locations in Indiana, Oklahoma, Arizona, and Wyoming. At least seven of the churches he pastored he did bi-vocationally because the churches did not bring enough tithe in to pay a pastoral salary. Almost all of the congregations Loyd pastored were made up of Native Americans. He had a passion for the lost and was enamored with the Native American people. Loyd Hughes died at the age of 84. At his funeral a man in his 30's spoke about him saying, "I started carrying mail about 12 years ago and delivered to Loyd's house everyday. When we first met Loyd wanted to know if I knew Jesus. While I didn't pay much attention to him at first his persistent inquiring as to my beliefs eventually led to my accepting Jesus Christ. I have always had a ton of respect for Loyd because he never seemed to care that much about things such as money, nice cars, and big homes. He was only concerned with people knowing Jesus. Everyone that knew him knew he didn't have much but since I have known him I realized I don't need all that stuff to be happy and as he always told me you can't take it with you anyway. Loyd Hughes was a great man and I am really going to miss him." I have been to a number of funerals in my life but have never witnessed such a testimony of someone's life by there mail carrier. Loyd's death will not make the front page news anywhere, he will not be memorialized by the Nazarene Church for his years of service or commitment to the church and its people. He never even pastored a church over 100 people. But Loyd changed peoples lives, he spoke to simple people with a simple message. Love Jesus and love each other. Loyd Hughes may you rest in the peace that comes with the passing of your human body and lie gracefully as you await the resurrection of your spirit with our Lord Jesus Christ who lives and reigns now and forever.

2006-08-22T11:49:00.000-05:00

A Celebration

This past Sunday Jamie and I had the wonderful opportunity to witness the baptism of our second niece Hailey. Although I was somewhat frustrated at the fact her baptism was sandwiched in between choruses and announcements I resisted the urge to mention anything to my brother and his wife. If I could have asked the pastor a question I might have asked why when serving communion or baptizing older children or adults would the service have been altered accordingly in order to highlight the sacramental nature of the event but because my niece was infant baptized it got stuck between choruses and announcements? That said, we broke bread together as a family after the service and celebrated the extraodinary event in my brothers home. Praise be to God.

2006-08-12T11:38:00.000-05:00

Thankful for Air-conditioning

It has been over 100 degrees here in Oklahoma for 12 straight days. Thankfully yesterday we had a break from the heat, it was only 95. Today however we have the good fortune of a three digit temp yet again. With Jamie being nearly eight months pregnant (and pregnant women experiencing heat more so than the rest of us because of the increased amount of blood their bodies produce) and myself having memories of hot air-conditioners summers at 8117 Wayne St. in KC, I am thankful for air-conditioning. Sometimes I think in my attempt to understand the world and even my local surroundings I am more quick to critique than I am to praise. While I believe critique is necessary to improve stagnant or broken systems I also believe praise can be just as effective in bringing about change. My prayer this morning is that God may grant me the wisdom and ability to use praise in my everyday life.

This morning I am thankful for a good nights sleep, the special relationship I have with Jamie, my unborn child, Jamie carrying our child to term in her body, the great cup of coffee I am having while I write, the feelings that I have when thinking about my family and friends, and on days like today in Oklahoma the wonderful technology of air-conditioning. Blessings upon all who spend time in the Shire today, and may you experience the joy of thankfulness in your lives.

2006-08-10T10:00:00.000-05:00

Facilities gone Wild

In my post yesterday I mentioned that I wanted to spend some time in the next couple of days highlighting some of the ways I believe the church can reclaim its prophetic voice. It is very important for those in the body of the church to hold the church and its leaders accountable to Christian practice.

Today I want to rant about facilities. Yes, thats right the structures that we call church and all those wonderfully expensive things we put into them. First, the building. Is it really necessary to build bigger and better churches? Do we really need more space? How many times have I heard someone at church talk about the need for more space. If the church wants to teach about giving to the poor and spending resources on the lost then shouldn't it actually spend more on these endeavors than it does on a mortgage payment? This fascination of space is not limited to the growing sizes of churches. Homes in the U.S. have steadily increased in size as well over the past 50 years (average size home in 1950 for a family of five 1300 sq ft, average in 2000 for a family of four 2200 sq. ft). It has gotten to the point where we have become conditioned to think that if the building in which we worship in or live in is not as big as the one next to us then we must change it. So what can we do? 1) I suggest we learn to maximize space instead of increasing size. If a church actually begins to outgrow the facility it is in then instead of building something new it should plant another church and repeat this process again and again until all of the lost are reached. 2) Another suggestion is sharing facilities. Sharing is one of those biblical principles we have almost totally abandoned. Instead of having 10 churches of the same denomination in a ten mile radius why not have one and share the facility. In doing so you drastically cut your operating cost and free up money to invest in people in the kingdom instead of buildings in the kingdom.

Second, the amenities in the building. Do we really need 50ft screens and concert style lighting/sound to praise Jesus? Do we need espresso machines, flat screen tv's, and movie quality video editing equipment? When is it going to stop? How can we teach people that filling their homes and lives with the newest coolest stuff isn't building the kingdom (on the contrary its building consumerism) when the church does the very same thing? Am I suggesting that we get rid of all the newer equipment we have in churches and return to nothing but an organ and our voices, of course not. However, I am suggesting that we find more creative ways than simply buying the latest greatest consumer items to enhance our worship experience. Therefore, we begin the process of teaching others to find creative ways to decrease their own consuming behaviors. These are a few simple suggestions. 1) If you are going to print a Sunday bulletin then set out recycling bins to collect them after service so you can reuse the material to print bulletin's again. 2) If you think a new item (technological, musical, administrative, etc.) is necessary then find other uses it will have for the church before purchasing it so it will serve multiple purposes. 3) If its not broken beyond repair then don't replace it until it is. 4) Do not build multi-purpose activity facilities unless you intend on using them as a free community center for the local community. 5) Discuss creative alternatives to always being a consumer instead of a provider. 6) If you want coffee and a muffin on Sunday morning then bake some on Saturday night and brew a pot of coffee on Sunday morning before you come to church.

Perhaps some of you will disagree, if so this is a forum for dialog. What do you think about the consumer nature of the church facilities being built today?

2006-08-09T15:51:00.000-05:00

Have Church and Society become indistinguishable

How can the church continue to behave in a manner that does not distinguish itself from society (examples forthcoming) and expect those in attendance (the body) to possess the know how to differentiate the message of Jesus and the message of contemporary humanity? It is with this question that I have been wrestling for some time. I hope over the next couple of weeks to flesh this problem out and to offer a few tangible ideas for counteracting the current trend.

First, what is the problem? The problem is that in a pluralistic society such as ours competing cultural systems often begin to take on the form of one another in order to maximize or routinize a way of existing. For example, if someone wanted to start a business in the U.S. in order to maximize their chances of success they would inevitably follow a predescribed model of business. As modern industrial societies evolve and try new things, they latch on to the things that work and systematically streamline them for maximum efficiency. It is a well-known fact that in business time is money and to lack efficiency is to knowingly decrease one's profit. Herein lies part of the problem I questioned above.

The church in modern industrialized countries has bought into the idea that in order to maximize its voice in a pluralistic society it needs to appear (physically and philosophically) like the rest of society, often times under the misconception that if it does not it will lose its effectiveness (i.e. prophetic voice, or in some instances its actual local church existence). How else can we explain the colossal amount of resources the church puts into its appearance (both inside and out), the need for cutting edge technological equipment that can provide flawless service performances, church advertising, church growth consulting firms, growing church budgets (including growing pastoral salaries), the intermixing of religion and politics, and on and on. Working from a system such as this how can the church offer a message equivalent to being like Jesus when it is more natural to adopt the stronger cultural norm, the culture of capitalism? I have been reading Yoder's The Priestly Kingdom in which he discusses the great need for the church to exist in society but not be like society (I am paraphrasing). Yoder feels that in order for the church to reclaim its prophetic voice it must lead by example in the quest to transform the kingdom now into a kingdom of heaven. He offers some suggestions, as I will in additional posts.

While discussing this idea one of my close friends asked if I was going to include in a tangible ideas section things such as a sacramental theology. My explanation was that while I believe having a strong background in biblical, historical, and theological perspective I fear that they are often times provided both without a good example from the church or its representatives the clergy (of course not any of my clergy friends). It is one thing to preach about social justice and quite another to actually advocate for the poor and oppressed from a biblical and theological perspective. I hope in subsequent postings to flesh out a number of concrete ideas the church could adopt to reclaim a prophetic voice in a pluralistic society. Understand that the ideas I will offer come from the needs I perceive from a sociological approach.

2006-07-24T09:46:00.000-05:00

The Greatest Game

I love the game of baseball. There is something about sitting with a friend at a game on a cool summer evening having a shaboigan and cold beverage watching the game unfold before your eyes that I just love. For as long a I can remember I have been an Atlanta Braves fan. Our youth group in Nashville used to take trips to Atlanta's Fullton County Stadium to watch one of the worst teams in baseball when I was a kid and I loved every minute of it. I also had great memories while in seminary going to Royals (my second favorite team) games with many of you participating in this blog. Well, in the spirit of the game I wanted to post my before the trade-deadline picks for the up coming playoffs. Drumroll please.

American League-
East- Boston
Central- Detroit
West- Anaheim
Wild Card- White Sox

National League-
East- Mets
Central- Cardinals
West- Padres
Wild Card- Braves

ALCS- Anaheim vs. Detroit
NLCS- Mets vs. Braves

World Series- Anaheim vs. Braves (Anaheim in 7)

I hope many of you will also post your picks in the Shire. Let the smack talk begin.

2006-07-16T16:43:00.000-05:00

Nation and State

I am so pleased to see the early benefits of community dialogue. Some of my fondest memories have come in numerous different locations in conversation with those of you reading this blog. I hope it continues as we discuss any number of topics on this blog. By the way if any of you would like to guest post on the blog, just email me your post and I will add it to the main page so we all can comment.

I am intrigued by the number of responses drawing attention to the idea of place. From a sociological perspective the world has about five thousand nations. What makes each one a nation is that its people share a language, culture, territory, and political organization. A state, in contrast, claims a monopoly on violence over a territory. A state may contain many nations. For example the Chippewa and Sioux are two nations within the state called the United States or the Shitte and Sunni are two nations within Iraq. The world's five thousand nations have existed for hundreds of years. While most of the worlds 194 states have been around only since World War II.

In most states, power resides in the hands of an elite. The power elite control foreign investment and aid, and use both to enforce their position. Why is it I am providing so much background info you ask. Well I am curious as to whether or not a Christian nation could indeed exist inside a state. There is so much talk about the United States (from many elites no doubt) being a Christian nation and yet the actions of this state often times do not reflect that Christian perspective. To what extent should we participate in the decision making process of our state (US, Canada, etc)? How can we hold leaders accountable for the decisions they make in our stead? I think that if we define a Christian community as a nation within a state then perhaps it could have a stronger voice than when we try to define the state itself as Christian. Final question, one that I believe Mark was also asking, how does country (i.e. state) affect Christianity?

2006-07-13T08:37:00.000-05:00

Will there ever be peace in the world?

As most of you already know the tension in the Middle East has reached a twenty-year high. Due to the recent increase in aggression is why I ask my question? For centuries violence has been a means of exerting one's will over another. Whether it had to do with economic, civil, familial, or agrarian reasons society has dealt with violence and war for a long time. It seems however that in the past century violence has reached a new level. More people were killed by violent means in the twentieth century than in all of the previous centuries combined-an estimated 180 million people. Some such as, the late Pope John Paul II have labeled these times as a "culture of death". Do we live in a culture of death? It is hard to argue with this assessment knowing the current increase in terrorism, ethnic cleansings, racism, and battles between sovereign nations.

One of the reasons I decided to name this blog the Shire was to capture some of the lasting hope the writer J.R.R. Tolkien wrote about in his classic novel The Lord of the Rings. The appeal of Tolkien's novel lies in this bright vision of hope, and in the moral and religious strength that it provides. As many of you already know my favorite characters in the book are the Hobbits (especially Samwise). The kinship that Frodo, Samwise, Merry, and Pippin share with one another is unmatched. There is a quote in the book that says, (I am paraphrasing) "as the battle is waging on one of the most unlikely of ring-bearers moves ever closer to the Mountain of Doom". Obviously the unlikely ring-bearer is Frodo. What makes him unlikely is that by there nature Hobbits are not power seeking, greedy, and violent creatures. There purpose in life is to live well. The philosopher Augustine explains this as the very basis of the Christian life: To live well is nothing other than to love God with all one's heart with all one's soul and with all one's efforts from this it comes about that love is kept whole and uncorrupted.

I do not claim to know any grand macro theory that will bring peace to our hurting world. I do however think that peace in this world begins with us. Choosing to respond to others out of compassion and grace instead of fear and hatred. If our aim is to live life well (as in Tolkien's Hobbits not capitalist minded Americans) I think we will take giant steps forward in bringing about peace to the present kingdom.