Thanksgiving 2012! A lot has happened in the past year! Just one year ago our family gathered to celebrate the holiday in Phoenix, totally oblivious to what November 2012 would look like. It has been quite a remarkable journey to date. A week ago we were again in Phoenix squeezing in a long weekend with Abby and family. The highlight, besides Abby, was spending Saturday evening with the Schmidt family along with a great dinner. Tim, Jeanette, Walt, Lois and David are dear friends born out of a challenging 5 years in Phoenix. We ate, drank, smoked a cigar and rekindled memories of precious moments of our past. It was a (pre)Thanksgiving to remember!
This year Rhonda and I will travel just a few hours south to San Diego to spend some turkey time with Karen and Fred Friedrichs. They are good friends from our 8 years at St. Paul's. We look forward to catching up, talking about Yosemite and enjoying some fine wine. Two important groups of people were born during our time at Martin Luther School and St. Paul's. I include these folks in my "Happy Few." Those"few" friends who contributed to our life story and we became richer for them. They both carry the respect and love of my own adult children.
Amid all the change and new adventures that have filled our lives since July, I am most thankful for the family and friends God has richly blessed me with. You know how good it is when you can't get enough of each other or already begin planning the next time you will re-connect. Then you add some component of food into the equation the memory just tastes and smells that much better. :) Maybe that's why the first Thanksgiving included a feast. Pilgrims and Indians gathered to celebrate just "making it" work together. They had pulled together to produce an abundant harvest. They had been pushed them the brink of extinction when a special relationship was borne to create a mutual respect and appreciation for one another. Despite great differences. I wonder how long it lasted? My "Happy Few" include "quite a few," and it was created by the presence of Jesus Christ. I pray that as my kids grow into adulthood, they are able to develop the kind of relationships that will make their lives as rich as mine! Blessed Thankgiving!
Friday, November 16, 2012
Friday, October 26, 2012
Adios Cards, the Future looks Bright!
What a difference a year makes, or should I say, it almost made! I still remember the heroics of David Freeze cranking key hits and Chris Carpenter pitching key wins to crown the Cardinals as World Champions in 2011! There were lots of similarities between the STL Cardinals of 2011 and the team of 2012. The biggest difference is the outcome. :( The SF Giants pulled out a huge comeback over the Cards from a 3-1 deficit to win the last three games and move onto the World Series. They look more like last year's Cardinals than this year's team. The shame of their lousy losses are now gobbled up in the drama of the Tigers and Giants.
Now they look to next year. Young arms and young talent were called upon to fill injured spots in this year's club. Optimistic talk has already crafted the expectation for this team to keep playing into next November. There will be new faces as once again the old and fragile, the "too expensive to keep" will be replaced with hopefuls for the future.
So it is with life's ebbs and flows. The tears and sadness are healed through the hope that tomorrow will be better. We get too caught up with the emotion of the moment to clearly see that there may be a better outcome than we could ever imagine. I must be self-aware enough to catch my reaction that could easily add more tension to a situation than may already exist.
Our October core virtue was "Self-Control" and we honored those students who reflected it in our assembly today. Proverbs 25:28 states, "A person without self-control is like a city with broken-down walls." We are defenseless to deal with life's challenges without tapping in this critical "Fruit of the Spirit"( Galatians 5:22). I pray to be able to compete in the game in life, exercising self-control in all things.
By the way... in defense of this team... what other professional team at any level could...
Now they look to next year. Young arms and young talent were called upon to fill injured spots in this year's club. Optimistic talk has already crafted the expectation for this team to keep playing into next November. There will be new faces as once again the old and fragile, the "too expensive to keep" will be replaced with hopefuls for the future.
So it is with life's ebbs and flows. The tears and sadness are healed through the hope that tomorrow will be better. We get too caught up with the emotion of the moment to clearly see that there may be a better outcome than we could ever imagine. I must be self-aware enough to catch my reaction that could easily add more tension to a situation than may already exist.
Our October core virtue was "Self-Control" and we honored those students who reflected it in our assembly today. Proverbs 25:28 states, "A person without self-control is like a city with broken-down walls." We are defenseless to deal with life's challenges without tapping in this critical "Fruit of the Spirit"( Galatians 5:22). I pray to be able to compete in the game in life, exercising self-control in all things.
By the way... in defense of this team... what other professional team at any level could...
- loose the best player in baseball (Albert Pujols) - arguably
- have their hall of fame coaches Tony LaRussa and Dave Duncan retire
- play under a rookie manager with no major league coaching experience
- Loose their ace pitcher for 95% of the season ( Chris Carpenter)
- Loose their key defensive player in the infield to injury half way through the season (Furcal)
- Not have the services of the key player who kept the clubhouse together (Lance Berkman)
- and be one game away from returning to the World Series!
Thursday, October 4, 2012
Changing My World :)
I'm thinking alot about change lately... why it happens, how it takes place, what makes it stick. I have almost reached day 50 with my new staff. When to push and when to hold back is the tension that drives me. My good friend Lois told me to write down a few of the things that have occupied my mind since my arrival. So when I make it through year 1, I can look back and see where we've come from.
Last week, I spent some time with Joel K, the former ed exec in this district. He definately thinks outside the box in many areas. I agreed on his point that most of our Lutheran schools put a higher priority of ministry over learning. Figuring out that balance will keep some in the business while others shut their doors and relegate their classrooms to a weekend experience. I pray for guidance and wisdom in guiding this precious gift and those who receive it with thanksgiving - both the big and the little people!
- Installed two Smartboards in the lab and Jr. High classroom. three more are expected sometime this month. Learning how to use two "Ebeam" units that were donated this past week.
- Ordered laptops for all teachers to upgrade operating systems, wireless and portability in their planning.
- Re-tooled technology teacher emphasis to begin to work with teachers to assist them in using the labtime for curriculum integration.
- Purchased and ready to roll out Accelerated Reader into our library and instructional program. Just completed web-based fire-up of the system
- Scheduled our STP conference online to make online sign-ups take place
- Began weekly "School News" to take school information out of teacher newletters and provide a place for "School Scoops," "Thank-you's" and important info.
- Began a conversation with K-2 teachers on their joys and challenges with their language arts curriculum. Scheduled a web connection regarding A to Z Readers with Erin Winter later this month.
- Introduced the staff to Six-trait writing process. More conversation will take place in Dec.
- SJB are in their review cycle for the WASC-NLSA Accreditation process this year. Focus groups have begun and
- Re-tooled the Superintendent's Advisory Committee to have roles to support our mission and vision. They are actively engaged in our accreditation process.
- Visited three local schools in our area to get a feel for what public and private educational programs look like in our community.
- Hired and give direction to new "male" Director of our Children Center for 200 infant to four-year olds. It has been a challenge in making a smooth transition from the director who has established the center 30 years ago.
- Getting a handle on the 418 students who I greet each morning and afternoon out on the sidewalk. Most have names that I can't begin to pronounce. :)
- Learning my role as Superintendent of Schools - boundries and structure within this administrative structure.
- Working with several teachers on establishing a classroom blog
- Learning what it means to be a "Director of Operations" in the ministry.
Last week, I spent some time with Joel K, the former ed exec in this district. He definately thinks outside the box in many areas. I agreed on his point that most of our Lutheran schools put a higher priority of ministry over learning. Figuring out that balance will keep some in the business while others shut their doors and relegate their classrooms to a weekend experience. I pray for guidance and wisdom in guiding this precious gift and those who receive it with thanksgiving - both the big and the little people!
Monday, September 17, 2012
Unrecognizable Grace
Last night, Rhonda and I arrived home in Bakersfield after she spent the past three weeks helping Sarah with baby Abigail in Phoenix. We began planning our return just a few miles down the interstate. Sunday morning Abby was welcomed into God's family by her Papa Walquist as he baptized her in the name of the Truine God. Those same words have been used for thousands of years, unleashed through the power of God's Word and His Spirit into her life. It is an amazing testimony to God's activity when we are in so passive.
Abigail is completely dependent on her earthly parents to provide every possible need she has. Left on her own, she would soon wither from dehydration and lack of nutrition. We won't even mention dealing with the dirty diapers that she does not enjoy. It makes me ill just imagining such an outcome after spending a few days with this precious newborn. So it is when we try and move outside the boundries of recognition and dependence upon God''s constant grace and blessing. His provision goes beyond what we can responsibly manage or appreciate. It seems ridiculous to think of involving the Creator of the Universe in the thousands of thoughts and choices we encounter each day. Yet, our dependence on Him is like Abby's. God's involvement and investment in our lives is complete. He "SOLD OUT' His only Son to insure a relationship that remains even when we are oblivious to His presence. How awesome is that!
Abigail is completely dependent on her earthly parents to provide every possible need she has. Left on her own, she would soon wither from dehydration and lack of nutrition. We won't even mention dealing with the dirty diapers that she does not enjoy. It makes me ill just imagining such an outcome after spending a few days with this precious newborn. So it is when we try and move outside the boundries of recognition and dependence upon God''s constant grace and blessing. His provision goes beyond what we can responsibly manage or appreciate. It seems ridiculous to think of involving the Creator of the Universe in the thousands of thoughts and choices we encounter each day. Yet, our dependence on Him is like Abby's. God's involvement and investment in our lives is complete. He "SOLD OUT' His only Son to insure a relationship that remains even when we are oblivious to His presence. How awesome is that!
Thursday, August 30, 2012
Celebrating New Life!
On Friday night, August 24th at 9:59 pm, my daughter and son-in-law celebrated the birth of their first baby, Abigail! Of course she makes me a grandpa! My wife flew out on her reserved flight to Phoenix on Saturday afternoon and I drove out following dropping her off. I had 9 hours on the road to think about what it means to have a new generation in the family. I drove straight to the hospital and met her. This is new life like I hadn't experienced since the birth of my own children. She is the most beautiful and precious baby I've seen in a long time. Some thoughts...
There is part of me in that baby. Somewhere buried in her DNA is one or two chromosomes that were put there by myself and Rhonda. That's an awesome thing. At least I hope so. :) What that part is yet to be revealed and I can't wait to see what it might be. To see both Andrew and Sarah in her is amazing. I see the feet of a runner and the hands of a pianist! Neither one is me.
She will grow up in Christian family! I had a great sense of peace flood over me knowing she would be a child of God. She has come from two bloodlines that hold their allegiance to Jesus Christ! What a privilege it will be to share stories of faith with her. Andrew's parents and entire family have dedicated their lives to be "Enochs" and "walk with God." I am blessed to have a family that also walks by faith. This is a rare covering in her life and we look forward to introducing her to all her aunts, uncles and cousins in the months and years ahead.
We will make memories together. What will she remember about me? I must begin to formulate in my own mind the stories that we will make together. Will we camp, ride boogie boards, learn to fish? Play "Heart and Soul" as a piano duet? We will share a life story along with Randy and Elaine. It has re-calibrated my thinking about how I finish this race. My health and well-being is important to sustain me through this next chapter of our lives as we watch her grow up to be the person God intends for her to be.
God has an amazing purpose for her life. How exciting it will be to see her life unfold within a generation that will experience so much change! Yet, like any child we are a steward to shape and mold what God has created. He has purposed her for greatness! She will be an exception, not the norm! (a peregoyism). There is no one on the planet like her. God has equipped her in some way to do some amazing things for Him. I just can't wait to see what that might be.
I already love this child despite only knowing her for two days. It is an example of the unconditional love God has for each of us. No matter how much she cries at night, or the number of dirty diapers, she will get the undivided attention from her parents. They must be attentive to her every wimper. So it is with our relationship with our God. To know that God has established this kind of relationship with Abigail is amazing to me. He fashioned her in her mother's womb, she is fearfully and wonderfully made.! I love this!
Friday, August 24, 2012
Discipleship Business
I read a great blog post in Leadership Journal by Gordon MacDonald titled, "How to Spot a Transformed Christian." I have been a big fan of MacDonald's writings since the 70's and his "Resilient Life" had a great impact on the lives of those who read it with me. MacDonald draws a comparison to the development of a Marine to that of a disciple of Jesus Christ. The transformation is marked as a recruit goes through an intensive training process to produce the chiseled warrior ready to dedicate his life for God and country. They are easy to pick out in a crowd. He asks the question - "What would a transformed Christian life look like?" Here is Gordon's dozen:
1. Has an undiluted devotion to Jesus.
2. Pursues a Biblically informed view of the world.
3. Is intentional and disciplined in seeking God's direction.
4. Worships with a spirit of continuous repentance.
5. Builds healthy human relationships.
6. Knows how to engage the larger world.
7. Senses a personal "call" and unique competnencies.
8. Is merciful and generous to those who are weaker.
9. Appreciates that suffering is part of faithfulness to Jesus.
10. Is eager and ready to express the content of their faith.
11. Overflows with thankfulness.
12. Has a passion for reconciliation.
His thoughts were shared with my teaching staff this morning. We are in the "disciple making" business. Disciples building and equipping followers of Jesus. I would expect those who lead to be more dedicated to the principles than those they shape. It caused me to take a personal inventory of how I measure up to these "transformational principles." I must admit that there are several of them that I feel good about, while others that need constant attention.
Gordon states: " There are Marines and you know them when you see them. They bear evidence of a remarkable transformation. And then there are Christ-followers, and among them you see the occasional mature, transformed follower of the Lord. You know them because, as you draw closer, you see Christ in them." Nice work Gordon! Glad you are still part of the "transformation business!" I am thankful that in my 55 plus years of life, I have been blessed by the faithful influence of many!
1. Has an undiluted devotion to Jesus.
2. Pursues a Biblically informed view of the world.
3. Is intentional and disciplined in seeking God's direction.
4. Worships with a spirit of continuous repentance.
5. Builds healthy human relationships.
6. Knows how to engage the larger world.
7. Senses a personal "call" and unique competnencies.
8. Is merciful and generous to those who are weaker.
9. Appreciates that suffering is part of faithfulness to Jesus.
10. Is eager and ready to express the content of their faith.
11. Overflows with thankfulness.
12. Has a passion for reconciliation.
His thoughts were shared with my teaching staff this morning. We are in the "disciple making" business. Disciples building and equipping followers of Jesus. I would expect those who lead to be more dedicated to the principles than those they shape. It caused me to take a personal inventory of how I measure up to these "transformational principles." I must admit that there are several of them that I feel good about, while others that need constant attention.
Gordon states: " There are Marines and you know them when you see them. They bear evidence of a remarkable transformation. And then there are Christ-followers, and among them you see the occasional mature, transformed follower of the Lord. You know them because, as you draw closer, you see Christ in them." Nice work Gordon! Glad you are still part of the "transformation business!" I am thankful that in my 55 plus years of life, I have been blessed by the faithful influence of many!
Monday, August 13, 2012
Olympic Withdrawl
Less than 24 hours ago, the London Olympic games packed up and sent athletes heading home with dreams of "coulda" and "shoulda," while others get ready to cash in on their accomplishments. The games always capture my attention on several points:
1. Relatively unknowns become household names after their Olympic exposure.
We now know the intimate stories of people like Missy Franklin, Ryan Lochte, Gabby Douglas, Oscar Pistorius, David Boudia and you can probably name a few more. They are now national heroes and ready for their own cereal box.
2. Epic performances from the champions we expect to show up. Michael Phelps, the basketball teams, foreign soccer, Chinese divers and gymnasts and those incredible Jamican sprinters. You want to see them perform at a high level and they seldom disappoint.
3. Favorites you don't want to miss. Misty May-Treanor and Kerri Walsh, three time gold medalists! Not only did they dominate the sport for 12 years but they NEVER lost an Olympic match! Wowsers! In each game there was point when I felt they were capable of losing, only to rebound and gather the composure to close out strong. Beach volleyball is two people who at one moment look forlorn after a spike in their face and have their opponent screaming at the top of their lungs and the next having to stand up from a great dig and ready yourself for a game changing kill. There is no time for moping or feeling sorry for a bad play. You get up and forget it. A wonderful expression of competition.
4. How about dumping professional sport events from the Olympics? I don't need to see an NBA or WNBA all-star team playing against NBA all-stars from another country. I want to watch competitors from around the world compete in sports that we can only watch every four years! How about rowing, gymnastics, track and field competition, platform diving. These are athletes that dedicate so much of their lives in refining their skills for a chance to compete on this stage every four years. I will say that there is marked improvement on the national courts that created more competition than we've seen in the past.
5. Being a Homer for the host country. Mo Farah, Andy Murray, and the British cycling teams became hometown legends and were spurred by their frenzied countrymen.
So I go back to watching HGTV, FoodNetwork, DIY and the Travel Network. Looking forward to watching a new Russia showcase their country for the Winter Olympics in 2014!
1. Relatively unknowns become household names after their Olympic exposure.
We now know the intimate stories of people like Missy Franklin, Ryan Lochte, Gabby Douglas, Oscar Pistorius, David Boudia and you can probably name a few more. They are now national heroes and ready for their own cereal box.
2. Epic performances from the champions we expect to show up. Michael Phelps, the basketball teams, foreign soccer, Chinese divers and gymnasts and those incredible Jamican sprinters. You want to see them perform at a high level and they seldom disappoint.
3. Favorites you don't want to miss. Misty May-Treanor and Kerri Walsh, three time gold medalists! Not only did they dominate the sport for 12 years but they NEVER lost an Olympic match! Wowsers! In each game there was point when I felt they were capable of losing, only to rebound and gather the composure to close out strong. Beach volleyball is two people who at one moment look forlorn after a spike in their face and have their opponent screaming at the top of their lungs and the next having to stand up from a great dig and ready yourself for a game changing kill. There is no time for moping or feeling sorry for a bad play. You get up and forget it. A wonderful expression of competition.
4. How about dumping professional sport events from the Olympics? I don't need to see an NBA or WNBA all-star team playing against NBA all-stars from another country. I want to watch competitors from around the world compete in sports that we can only watch every four years! How about rowing, gymnastics, track and field competition, platform diving. These are athletes that dedicate so much of their lives in refining their skills for a chance to compete on this stage every four years. I will say that there is marked improvement on the national courts that created more competition than we've seen in the past.
5. Being a Homer for the host country. Mo Farah, Andy Murray, and the British cycling teams became hometown legends and were spurred by their frenzied countrymen.
So I go back to watching HGTV, FoodNetwork, DIY and the Travel Network. Looking forward to watching a new Russia showcase their country for the Winter Olympics in 2014!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)