It's utterly impossible for some things to coexist together.
...Darkness and light for example.
1) Optics (a branch of physics) states that light will overpower darkness and darkness will thrive in the absence of light.
2) Artistically, a white canvas can only be viewed at it's brightest and most intense if it remains white. Opaque or transparent colored pigments can enhance the canvas, but black paint will only result in hiding a white canvas completely.
3) Spiritually, light overpowers darkness and darkness thrives in the absence of light.
Some things can never coexist together in peace.
Wednesday, December 28, 2011
Don't Say You Believe in God
The Gallup poll indicates that 9 in 10 Americans say they believe in God.
Truthfully, this is not necessarily a good thing. Believing and doing something about that belief are not one and the same. If 9 in 10 Americans actually believed strong enough to do something about it, we would desire to know what is pleasing and displeasing to God and then live accordingly. We would be living so pure, righteous, and holy that the majority of our social problems would practically go away.
This is one area where we definitely should put our 'money where our mouth is'.
Truthfully, this is not necessarily a good thing. Believing and doing something about that belief are not one and the same. If 9 in 10 Americans actually believed strong enough to do something about it, we would desire to know what is pleasing and displeasing to God and then live accordingly. We would be living so pure, righteous, and holy that the majority of our social problems would practically go away.
This is one area where we definitely should put our 'money where our mouth is'.
Sunday, December 25, 2011
This is Christmas
This is Christmas...
We proclaim to you the one who existed from the beginning, whom we have heard and seen. We saw him with our own eyes and touched him with our own hands. He is the Word of life. This one who is life itself was revealed to us, and we have seen him. And now we testify and proclaim to you that he is the one who is eternal life. He was with the Father, and then he was revealed to us. We proclaim to you what we ourselves have actually seen and heard so that you may have fellowship with us. And our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son, Jesus Christ. (1 John 1)
We proclaim to you the one who existed from the beginning, whom we have heard and seen. We saw him with our own eyes and touched him with our own hands. He is the Word of life. This one who is life itself was revealed to us, and we have seen him. And now we testify and proclaim to you that he is the one who is eternal life. He was with the Father, and then he was revealed to us. We proclaim to you what we ourselves have actually seen and heard so that you may have fellowship with us. And our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son, Jesus Christ. (1 John 1)
Friday, December 23, 2011
Ignore Ignorance
No matter what you believe, there are people who believe just the opposite.
That's just another reason it's good to have an 'ignore' list.
(Or to be so neurotically open-minded you don't know what you believe.)
That's just another reason it's good to have an 'ignore' list.
(Or to be so neurotically open-minded you don't know what you believe.)
Art
Unfortunately, so many modern-era art schools and university art programs are so lacking in providing the most basic fundamentals of art, they rank amongst the grandest educational failures in the world today. There are absolutely no other unversity degrees which offer so little foundation or important groundwork.
My hat goes off to those schools which actually do offer important fundamentals in art-related fields.
My hat goes off to those schools which actually do offer important fundamentals in art-related fields.
Thursday, December 22, 2011
Fame
Fame is no indication of quality. This is especially true in today's society where fame is often achieved by those who are notorious in one way or another. We have developed superstars whose only key to their fame is in their ability to generate press coverage.
This proves true for all areas which garner superstars of fame: music; art; film; television; dance; sports; politics; science; publishing; etc, etc. And, when the notorious 'fame bug' circulates, it can even envelope unlikely areas such as one's personal home life... if you do something bad enough, you can quickly become today's headline news.
So, my point is: don't try to impress by pointing out how famous a person is, and using that as an indication of just how remarkable and great they are. Christ pointed-out that those who are great in God's kingdom are those who are 'servants to all'. He elevated the meek and lowly far above the famous and mighty.
This proves true for all areas which garner superstars of fame: music; art; film; television; dance; sports; politics; science; publishing; etc, etc. And, when the notorious 'fame bug' circulates, it can even envelope unlikely areas such as one's personal home life... if you do something bad enough, you can quickly become today's headline news.
So, my point is: don't try to impress by pointing out how famous a person is, and using that as an indication of just how remarkable and great they are. Christ pointed-out that those who are great in God's kingdom are those who are 'servants to all'. He elevated the meek and lowly far above the famous and mighty.
Friday, December 16, 2011
ישו שילם את זה כל (But Jesus Paid It All) - Winter
ישו שילם את זה כל (But Jesus Paid It All) - Winter
It's been one full year of writing the scored notation for the Alpha & Omega Suite! This is the twentieth part to be completed... and it's one of the best.
It's been one full year of writing the scored notation for the Alpha & Omega Suite! This is the twentieth part to be completed... and it's one of the best.
ישו שילם את זה כל
When playing the board game Monopoly, it helps to possess a 'get out of jail free' card. Without the card a player could forfeit enough turns to either lose the game or trail significantly behind. The card guarantees immediate dismissal from jail so the game can continue without interruption for that player. Real life doesn't offer an equivalent card... once jailed, we serve our full term if bail can't be made. When the sentence has been handed-down, there's no turning back for the law breaker.
But... we actually do have a 'get out of jail' card which we can use if we so desire. That's the purpose of "ישו שילם את זה כל". It's available to all and is there for the taking.
Wednesday, December 14, 2011
How Diverse are We?
'Diversity' is one of the most masterful and ingenious words in the English language. It is often used to replace words such as: mixture, different, contrasting, opposing, conglomerate, unrelated, multiples, and divisions... all of which can have negative connotations along with the positive. Yet the word diversity has practically no negative connotation whatsoever! None, nil, zilch! It is the perfect word to use when attempting to show a group of contrasting elements as being positive instead of negative.
The most common usage of the word is when referring to differing people groups attempting to share space in the same territory. Though several thousand years of quarrels, battles, and cross-border skirmishes remind us of a very real part of who we are, none-the-less, we try our best to develop an attitude of viewing societal diversity as a good, positive thing instead of the irritation which our lower nature deceitfully whispers that it is. We try to be diverse while at the same time we also get unnoyed when confronted with some of the ramifications which are a natural part of it.
History shows that we can only put up with certain types of diversity for so long until we either separate them; water them down; or remove them completely. It really is no different now than in the past. The main difference is in the focus of what is allowed to be diverse, and what isn't. The western world has become quite adept at mixing cultures and various ethnic groups. We normally don't punish differing opinions, though we educate to encourage some far above others. We even allow a smorgasbord of religious beliefs... as long as none are too outspoken or extreme. We punish certain behaviors while giving full license to others, often using a hypocritical yardstick that's not actually based upon the reasons stated for doing so.
Not all of the world offers the same freedoms towards diversity... but the western world is trying our arrogant best to make sure those other nations do conform. We would like to dictate what those people can be diverse in, and what they can't. It is all part of the package referred to as 'globalization'. In order to be one big global village of 'everyone getting along' in our diverse ways, we must all meet up with what the western powers dictate on what is allowed. On the surface this seems like a good legitimate goal but lurking underneath is that same old asperation of one group dictating to another what they can or can't do. Some things never change... no matter how much we fool ourselves into believing they have.
So--- one thing we're learning about sociological diversity is that in order to make it work, you can't really be all that diverse in your beliefs or in your opinions. In the end you must conform; be silent; but you must not be truly diverse.
The most common usage of the word is when referring to differing people groups attempting to share space in the same territory. Though several thousand years of quarrels, battles, and cross-border skirmishes remind us of a very real part of who we are, none-the-less, we try our best to develop an attitude of viewing societal diversity as a good, positive thing instead of the irritation which our lower nature deceitfully whispers that it is. We try to be diverse while at the same time we also get unnoyed when confronted with some of the ramifications which are a natural part of it.
History shows that we can only put up with certain types of diversity for so long until we either separate them; water them down; or remove them completely. It really is no different now than in the past. The main difference is in the focus of what is allowed to be diverse, and what isn't. The western world has become quite adept at mixing cultures and various ethnic groups. We normally don't punish differing opinions, though we educate to encourage some far above others. We even allow a smorgasbord of religious beliefs... as long as none are too outspoken or extreme. We punish certain behaviors while giving full license to others, often using a hypocritical yardstick that's not actually based upon the reasons stated for doing so.
Not all of the world offers the same freedoms towards diversity... but the western world is trying our arrogant best to make sure those other nations do conform. We would like to dictate what those people can be diverse in, and what they can't. It is all part of the package referred to as 'globalization'. In order to be one big global village of 'everyone getting along' in our diverse ways, we must all meet up with what the western powers dictate on what is allowed. On the surface this seems like a good legitimate goal but lurking underneath is that same old asperation of one group dictating to another what they can or can't do. Some things never change... no matter how much we fool ourselves into believing they have.
So--- one thing we're learning about sociological diversity is that in order to make it work, you can't really be all that diverse in your beliefs or in your opinions. In the end you must conform; be silent; but you must not be truly diverse.
Monday, December 12, 2011
Can we sink any lower?
Just when you thought that commercials in the Christmas season couldn't get any worse... think again! They've really outdone themselves this year!
Word of the day
Today's word: empathy
If you don't know what it means or don't really understand how important it is... it's probably because empathy is not something you have much of.
If you don't know what it means or don't really understand how important it is... it's probably because empathy is not something you have much of.
Sunday, December 11, 2011
Climbing
It is not those raised with a silver spoon in their mouth, but those who have overcome adversities, turmoils, and hardships who we can not only admire, but also learn from. When witnessing someone who battles daily with either financial, stressful, mental/neurological, sociological, or any other of the conditions which can hold us back... and yet they move ahead, we must look at our own hardships and reevaluate those things we get so bent out of shape about.
Those who deserve the greatest admiration are very seldom the ones who receive riches, glory, mass attention, and media coverage. Though they might eventually make the cover of People magazine, their true strength is exhibited before they got there... in their climb from the low place where they ascended from.
Those who deserve the greatest admiration are very seldom the ones who receive riches, glory, mass attention, and media coverage. Though they might eventually make the cover of People magazine, their true strength is exhibited before they got there... in their climb from the low place where they ascended from.
Read the Signs
We are quite skillful in blurring the lines and redefining what's natural and what isn't. Problem is, our new definitions are no more accurate than what we once believed, and pose the danger of being far less realistic. New definitions often come from societal segments who are so far removed from natural reality that their voice is in no way the best one for us to listen to.
Once again, it's all part of the basic characteristics of a society in collapse. 'Been there, done that'... it's really nothing new. Problem is, this time it's not a small regional area. It's happening on a much larger global scale.
Read the signs... they're there for all to see.
Once again, it's all part of the basic characteristics of a society in collapse. 'Been there, done that'... it's really nothing new. Problem is, this time it's not a small regional area. It's happening on a much larger global scale.
Read the signs... they're there for all to see.
Friday, December 9, 2011
Can Paint, but Won't Do It
I'm sure you all remember Claire. You know, the pastel artist who was set-up on Gatlinburg's sidewalk churning out freehand portraits... way back in the day when Gatlinburg was known for it's wide mixture of portrait and landscape sidewalk artists. (I'm sure there are literally thousands of homes who have, or had, original art decorating the walls due to the numerous artists who made their living on the streets of the little mountain tourist Mecca.)
Well, Claire said one thing which has stuck with me for years. We were discussing the subject of time and freedom and producing art for money. I made the statement that if artists had a funded income given to them so they wouldn't have to work for a living, then they would produce far greater pieces and really enrich the world with their artistic offerings. (I was young and naive then.) Claire instantly disagreed with my sentiment. She had been a part of the art community for far more years than I had. She was a professional artist; she socialized with professional artists; she lived with professional artists, she spent most of her life involved with artists and their art. Claire said, "Nope. Most of the artists I know, if they weren't producing art out of necessity for an income, wouldn't even be doing their art hardly at all." Her observations were that though her art community was extremely hard working, putting-in ten to twelve hour days (seven days a week during the tourist season), in the off-season when the artists weren't working, they weren't even thinking about producing art. Most of the ones she socialized with would sit around drinking, partying, and producing hardly any art at all. It wasn't a matter of time or income, it was more a matter of incentive. They just didn't do it.
Since then, I have observed her words to be pretty accurate. I have been around multitudes of artists, both professional; hobbyists; and students. Just like Claire, I too have observed many artists who actually do have the time, resources and income to churn-out an abundance of masterpieces... but very few of them do. Now, I'm not generalizing about all of them. I've seen a few who get wildly creative and produce like there's no tomorrow, but they seem to be in the minority. Our human nature makes it easier for us to talk about our passions than to actually put forth the effort to really do something about them.
Don't think I'm just picking on artists. This frailty of 'producing only when it's necessary' rears it's ugly old head in many other areas of life. Artists aren't alone in this regard. But it does seem when someone is working, or creating, solo... when they don't have other people to cheer them on, or to pay them, then it's far too easy to just sit back and talk about what you would like to do. It takes a rare individual to do their best when the rewards are only felt, seen, and acknowledged by yourself.
Yep, Claire was pretty accurate in her assessment.
Well, Claire said one thing which has stuck with me for years. We were discussing the subject of time and freedom and producing art for money. I made the statement that if artists had a funded income given to them so they wouldn't have to work for a living, then they would produce far greater pieces and really enrich the world with their artistic offerings. (I was young and naive then.) Claire instantly disagreed with my sentiment. She had been a part of the art community for far more years than I had. She was a professional artist; she socialized with professional artists; she lived with professional artists, she spent most of her life involved with artists and their art. Claire said, "Nope. Most of the artists I know, if they weren't producing art out of necessity for an income, wouldn't even be doing their art hardly at all." Her observations were that though her art community was extremely hard working, putting-in ten to twelve hour days (seven days a week during the tourist season), in the off-season when the artists weren't working, they weren't even thinking about producing art. Most of the ones she socialized with would sit around drinking, partying, and producing hardly any art at all. It wasn't a matter of time or income, it was more a matter of incentive. They just didn't do it.
Since then, I have observed her words to be pretty accurate. I have been around multitudes of artists, both professional; hobbyists; and students. Just like Claire, I too have observed many artists who actually do have the time, resources and income to churn-out an abundance of masterpieces... but very few of them do. Now, I'm not generalizing about all of them. I've seen a few who get wildly creative and produce like there's no tomorrow, but they seem to be in the minority. Our human nature makes it easier for us to talk about our passions than to actually put forth the effort to really do something about them.
Don't think I'm just picking on artists. This frailty of 'producing only when it's necessary' rears it's ugly old head in many other areas of life. Artists aren't alone in this regard. But it does seem when someone is working, or creating, solo... when they don't have other people to cheer them on, or to pay them, then it's far too easy to just sit back and talk about what you would like to do. It takes a rare individual to do their best when the rewards are only felt, seen, and acknowledged by yourself.
Yep, Claire was pretty accurate in her assessment.
Freedom in Art
Though I've had full formal art training, I would guess that formal training would only contribute 20 to 30% to the artist I am now. As an artist grows and expands, their growth comes from observance, scrutinizing, problem solving, inventing, but most of all... just working at it! There's no better teacher than hands-on experience. Time spent getting your hands tarnished by whatever material you use is the classroom that really counts.
If it's not possible for you to get formal art training, no need to sulk... just self-educate and ask questions, read, study, and when you have a good idea of what you're doing... get out there and actually do it!
If it's not possible for you to get formal art training, no need to sulk... just self-educate and ask questions, read, study, and when you have a good idea of what you're doing... get out there and actually do it!
Have I Got a Deal for You!
Sometimes when you are offered a 'no brainer' deal, opportunity, or situation, you should stop and take a little more time to actually use your brain.
Things are not always what they appear on the surface.
Things are not always what they appear on the surface.
Wednesday, December 7, 2011
Ancient History
If you interpret ancient history using modern history as your reference, there's a good chance you might be slightly incorrect in your conclusions. You could even be greatly incorrect! Ancient history must always be interpreted based upon the times, people, culture, climate, and conditions that are known for that period... and not upon our own. Historical essays, theses, and writings should be rejected or viewed with skepticism if not following this guideline.
'Pop history' should be looked upon lightly, no matter how popular it is; how much money it earns; or how greatly Oprah is impressed by it.
'Pop history' should be looked upon lightly, no matter how popular it is; how much money it earns; or how greatly Oprah is impressed by it.
Honesty, Humility & a Humble Heart - Autumn
Honesty, Humility & a Humble Heart - Autumn"Lord, help me to be like David and not like Saul" (the Chorus refrains)
Monday, December 5, 2011
Punishment
"An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth" is mistakenly viewed as a harsh and unjust punishment system. The reality is, it's one of the fairest and most humane means of doling out justice... when compared to the alternative. One reason the average person feels so sickened and repulsed by the verdicts coming out of the modern court system is because we often veer from the "punishment fits the crime" and practice unequal extremes of unjust punishment. Our sentences are often "an eye for a tooth" and "a tooth for an eye".
If you've ever been shocked when hearing a verdict announced, you know what I mean.
If you've ever been shocked when hearing a verdict announced, you know what I mean.
