s t e p h i s h e r e

My new pet

2012-01-29T11:13:00.000-08:00

I found a new pet in my room today and I want to thank the Tennessee Wilderness for sharing her with me. We'll call her Lucy. I guess she thought it would be nice to wear a skirt. Amusingly it was the same skirt I wanted to wear today as well. As I was getting dressed, she scurried her venomous body across my floor, leaving me aghast as I leaped two feet into the air, chucking my favourite skirt across my room.

I'm taking a gander that the tornadoes of last week gave me more than just a hefty leak and semi-sun roof in my living room. The winds were also so courteous to provide a route for Lucy and her friends to come and go as they please.

Suffice it to say, Lucy has now joined the underground swimming club. It is quite unfortunate that she won't be visiting any longer, and I've taken precautions (with massive amounts of duct tape) to ensure her friends do not take advantage of the secret passage way either.

So long friend...

to you.

2012-01-26T17:12:00.000-08:00

*original source unknown

2012-01-22T20:33:00.000-08:00

I cannot explain why, or how I create. All I know is that I have to.

"The secret is that making Art, creating things, is a transformative process. The act of creation takes certain elements of our psyche, energy, if you will, and morphs it out of our heads and into the real world. Matter can neither be created nor destroyed, but it can be alchemized. The reason why Art works so well in therapy is that it allows for negative energy and/or trauma to be cleared out of our heads, and turned into something productive, without having to speak about things literally. Pictures can communicate energy without words, and in so doing, can tell stories that would be otherwise stuck in the murky world of the subconscious. The act of creation is akin to shining light on our shadows, (Jung again) and it enables the creator the opportunity to move on. Catharsis"

- Jonathan Blaustein

Sometimes I feel like a lonely boat.

Finally a guide I can follow

2012-01-17T15:55:00.000-08:00

I'm not one to complain about being single. I've been that way the majority of my life. If I had a man, I would not have been able to experience the things I did in my life. Of course, sometimes I wonder what it would be like to have someone by my side... just sometimes.

The average age for an American girl to first marry is 26.5. I'd like to interpret that as me being above average :)

So, I have begun my research in how all of this works:

TIPS FOR SINGLE WOMEN, 1938

In summary, do not end up like this:

... I think I can do this.

Hello Summer Break

2012-01-12T14:58:00.001-08:00

well, eventually.

John Steinbeck on Falling in Love: A 1958 Letter

2012-01-12T14:51:00.000-08:00

"And don’t worry about losing. If it is right, it happens — The main thing is not to hurry. Nothing good gets away."

New York
November 10, 1958

Dear Thom:

We had your letter this morning. I will answer it from my point of view and of course Elaine will from hers.

First — if you are in love — that’s a good thing — that’s about the best thing that can happen to anyone. Don’t let anyone make it small or light to you.

Second — There are several kinds of love. One is a selfish, mean, grasping, egotistical thing which uses love for self-importance. This is the ugly and crippling kind. The other is an outpouring of everything good in you — of kindness and consideration and respect — not only the social respect of manners but the greater respect which is recognition of another person as unique and valuable. The first kind can make you sick and small and weak but the second can release in you strength, and courage and goodness and even wisdom you didn’t know you had.

You say this is not puppy love. If you feel so deeply — of course it isn’t puppy love.

But I don’t think you were asking me what you feel. You know better than anyone. What you wanted me to help you with is what to do about it — and that I can tell you.

Glory in it for one thing and be very glad and grateful for it.

The object of love is the best and most beautiful. Try to live up to it.

If you love someone — there is no possible harm in saying so — only you must remember that some people are very shy and sometimes the saying must take that shyness into consideration.

Girls have a way of knowing or feeling what you feel, but they usually like to hear it also.

It sometimes happens that what you feel is not returned for one reason or another — but that does not make your feeling less valuable and good.

Lastly, I know your feeling because I have it and I’m glad you have it.

We will be glad to meet Susan. She will be very welcome. But Elaine will make all such arrangements because that is her province and she will be very glad to. She knows about love too and maybe she can give you more help than I can.

And don’t worry about losing. If it is right, it happens — The main thing is not to hurry. Nothing good gets away.

Love,

Fa

Thinking of Ethiopia, trying to get outside of myself

2012-01-09T21:02:00.000-08:00

Humble me, oh, Lord to do Thy Will. I need you more than ever to lead this broken heart towards yours. Oh, Lord, turn this heart away from worldy temptations, worries, and wants.

Wash me Savior, or I die.

Let me hide myself in The.

The Love of God by Ascend The Hill on Grooveshark

If you haven not downloaded this album, I suggest you get it.

Seriously, now! That's a command.

The albums' ardor and the guys' anointing has the potential to warm your soul.
And send the guys a little support if you have the means - they're good dudes.
If you're heart is not changed after listening to this, I'll give YOU your money back.
Promise.

{Album cover linked to free download}

LET US REJOICE TOGETHER: MY GOD, HOW GREAT YOU ARE!!!

Just use the force.

2012-01-03T22:49:00.000-08:00

I've fully succumb to to the fact that I am - and will always be - a dork.

Tonight I visited my best friend since I can remember. Our parents' made us become friends since no one else's kids were to be caught alone wandering the streets, riding bikes, playing Sega, or getting into the spray paint after 6pm. This is the girl who, in high school, was the leader of the pack. The one who's opinion mattered. She was the captain of the basketball team. You know, that girl who's comments pierced you right in the [social] heart. And I was the girl who sought acceptance from Punky Bruster and got kicks out of watching Welcome back Kotter. But for some reason, we were insuperable. We followed each other from preschool til high school graduation.

But as life should, it fell upon us. For some reason or another we drifted apart. And for years! But tonight, something magical occurred. The realization of that spark, that recognition of something magical happened.

Mandy was in her routine - bartending and speaking of something alcoholic or drug related, as I chimed in with my never-ending-dork-references.

Mandy - "They never pay attention to me." blah blah. something about tips and liquor...

Me - [explaining to her that she CAN receive all the tips she requests if only she uses the force] - "...Oh, Sorry that was a Star Wars reference."

Mandy - "Heh, yea, I never get your Star Wars references. That's why I love you."

I know that God has a place for her in my life. I have an undying, every-resistant love for this woman. We will forever be [completely] different, but I accept that. And I will continue to love this girl with all that God has placed in me. I thank God every day for you, Amanda Lynn :)

Let's just hope there is not another Horshack in my class next semester. Yes, MTSU, he does exist :/

when technology meets...

2011-12-25T21:04:00.001-08:00

"Dear lord .......thank you so much for blessing me with such a wonderful family and presents lord please help the less fourtionate with a hot meal clothes and a warm place to stay thank you for blessing me. In lords name I pray. Amen"

a prayer via my nieces' Facebook. I cannot convey how blessed I am to have this girl in my life.

dreams do come true.

2011-12-25T19:38:00.001-08:00

Winter Solstice; why must my heart be so heavy?

2011-12-21T22:02:00.000-08:00

realization sets in.
it's you; you are all i need.
my strength comes from you, oh Lord. my breath, my all and all.

nights seem of nothing, when I lay here in my gloom.
you have the key to my heart, oh God.
I need you, please come.

tonight is all i ask.

though, as you know, i'll need you tomorrow.

i'm sorry i promised anything to you before this day.
because as you know, i can't keep our word.

it is a wonderful world

2011-12-15T15:47:00.001-08:00

Never understood the Gosling fever... until now

2011-12-09T16:45:00.000-08:00

2011-12-06T22:07:00.001-08:00

2011-11-30T22:01:00.001-08:00

2011-11-28T19:50:00.000-08:00

I'll Be Seeing You by Billie Holiday on Grooveshark

Coming soon...

2011-11-23T21:43:00.001-08:00

I have a group exhibition coming up with fellow German, Johanna Lancaster. Okay, sorry, this is only the half-truth....

Sorry to disappoint, but I am not German.

But I do appreciate Johanna's story; her longing to exist in an organic world. I understand this all too well. I want to be away from this place; this place "artificialized for human convenience". She's featured at Belcourt this month, follow the link:

Our Event:

December 10, 2011
Threesquared Gallery
427 Chestnut St. Studio 223, Nashville, TN 37203

the streets of the world

2011-11-21T21:44:00.000-08:00

in search of enchanted and remote lands typically only reserved for the eyes of it's inhabitants,

but now are captured on camera by the automated and aesthetically-neutered google street

view cars that linger.  void of the main character (self-portrait) and an internal view, these images

represent the closing chapter of 4 years of cinemascapes with an external view of the world.

by aaron hobson

today was one of those days

2011-11-19T16:47:00.000-08:00

The windows are open, Fever Ray is on repeat, and I've got green tea steeping in my cup.

Once there was a boy. He was a beautiful American Brazilian guy from the Upper East Side in NYC. The night we met he rescued me from a few creepy men who cornered me after his show; literally whisking me away into the night. That night we danced, under the stars in the park without music until the cops came to shoo us away. I later found out he was semi-famous and plays with some of my favorite musicians. I would tell you who he ran around with, but then you probably wouldn’t believe me.

My life is magical.

2011-11-19T15:04:00.000-08:00

it's all right here.

2011-11-18T23:27:00.001-08:00

I've been looking for it for so long. The quintessential ingredients for a life well-lived.I'm happy today. I will take this all in and hope for my heart to stay intact.

A dear friend has been lost - or for better words, run away. I love her so much and pray for her safety. Menna, if you come home, let me know.

I love you so much, konjo.

Steph

A lovely day

2011-11-04T19:25:00.000-07:00

that I want to share with the dearest to my heart. I want to capture every single person in this picture and bring them to me - now. Is that possible? My prayers go out to Liz in Germany, David in Nepal, and Solomon and his family in Ethiopia.

Lizzy and I made a short video back in the day that I never got around to share much. It's not my best work (if anyone wants to donate an external mic, I'd appreciate it much!), but it's the substance that counts... right?

To you, Solomon.

Yours,

Stephanie

I'm on a cutsie rampage

2011-10-26T19:56:00.001-07:00

Those dang holidays are coming and I'm taking requests for jewelry. My favorites to make this year:

Remember, buy local and support friends first <3

2011-10-20T22:34:00.000-07:00

crack. crack, hum drum

the fridge, power on

faint stare upon the black, blank walls;

too incredulous to believe the mind has stopped.

momentary silence, then back again.

thoughts.

words.

springing forth like humming birds on a rampage.

cricket. cricket. hum drum.

she thinks of all those alseep.

she wants their eyes; their minds,

their nonexistent thoughts.

too many dawns witnessed

to think she must be sane.

the crack. slight light.

encroaching slowly, then too quickly to stop.

she sings with the birds.

another night has slept without her.

the night misses her. though, to not fault of her own,

she feels gulty still.

- insomnia; or I Want Your Eyes

Invisible

2011-10-20T20:20:00.000-07:00

Invisibility, let me explain, gives one a slightly different sense of time, you're never quite on the beat. Sometimes you're ahead and sometimes behind. Instead of swift and imperceptible flowing of time, you are aware of its nodes, those points where time stands still or from which it leaps ahead. And you slip into the breaks and look around.

- Ralph Ellison, Invisible Man

2011-10-17T12:47:00.000-07:00

deception is heartbreaking.

this world is a tragic kingdom.

Interview with Forche

2011-10-16T21:32:00.000-07:00

On The Colonel

Moyers (PBS): That's what can happen to a journalist's account. But the poem is a condemnation.

Forché: It is a condemnation. As a journalist, maybe you wouldn't have been able to use the obscenity, and perhaps you wouldn't have been able to quote him directly. But more than that, I don't think it would've happened to you because I don't think the message was intended for the press. It was intended for a quiet communication back to Washington, and unfortunately they told the wrong person. They told a poet.

Moyers: Lesson for politicians and military leaders: Never talk to poets.

Forché: Never.

I once lived with a Dutch girl

2011-10-12T17:51:00.000-07:00

I received a letter in the mail today from a former roommate. If anyone gets the honor to live with this girl, take it. I remember my trip back from Ethiopia I spent the entire night awake at the Frankfurt train station waiting for the 3am to leave. I spent all day transferring trains and waiting for the next to depart. I didn't arrive home until 6pm. I had travelled well over 24 hours and had yet to catch a wink of sleep. Dorien greeted me at our door with a huge hug, took my bags and lead me to the kitchen to where a caramel cappuccino and a stroopwafel - a famous Dutch cookie - awaited my arrival. She wanted nothing in return. She simply wanted to sit with me, to be in my presence, and to give herself to me. She is one of the most Godly women I have ever met. Living with her, during the week we'd watch Dutch reality tv together. She would translate for me since I failed to pick up any Dutch in my time with her. We'd baked - rather, I would watch her bake - and offer my french press coffee as we'd sit in our kitchen and talk about California, Ethiopia, Kenya, life in Germany. I realize now how much I'd taken those moments for granted. I looked forward to my evenings with her, but I never fully submerged myself into them as she. I'm thankful for friends such as Dorien. Not everyone gets one of these.

Tonight I sit in my half-furnished apartment and wonder where I am to go next (if anyone wants to help me decorate my walls, please join. I'll make you coffee). I know it will be somewhere wonderful. I know the people I will meet there (or along the way) will give me enough memories to last a lifetime.

I realized today that I am just a not so ordinary - ordinary American girl:

I have a credit card, but no debt. I (thankfully) sing in unison with the cohorts of Dave Ramsey and can admittedly yell, "I'M DEBT FREEEEEEEE!!!"

I go to college, but I've not fully embraced it's culture. I realized my abnormalities more-so today after sitting in class and becoming excited over a discussion on sub-prime mortgages. My professor and I seemed to be the only ones interested in the subject. My classmates had previously taken on a lengthy debate about black youth and capitalism - if black culture expresses itself through the media (rap music, clothing, sports) or the other way around? They talked about Lebraun James - who I'm assuming plays basketabll - some shows I'd never heard of on VH1, new sitcoms I've failed to see previews for. Conversations such as these always seem to bring about a new self-perspective I have for myself. I forget my close friends and I are different until it is laid out in front of me. We don't care about the media. We could care less what sport team is playing. We forget people don't know what fair trade means, or why you should buy local, or not eat meat. The hippies were on to something. Why did no one listen?

I sometimes forget how brilliantly extraordinary my life is. So many peoples' are boring. Really. I hear their goals and aspirations and think to myself, "really, this is how you want to spend your time? That is really how you spent your summer? How have you not gone insane yet?" I'm so thankful I've experienced the things I have. Not all of the things were good, not all of the things were easy to over-come, but boy have I been entertained.

reminders.

2011-10-10T18:57:00.000-07:00

"In this world you will face trials. But I have conquered the world and deprived it of power to harm you. So take head, and rest my child. Do not worry. Do not stress. I am with you. And as a good and trustful friend be, will not leave your side."

John 16:33, my translation of sorts

the view is so much like mine once was, it's uncanny

2011-10-08T21:58:00.000-07:00

the world awaits. but it's just that i've just got so much to do. Germany, I shall return some day.
promise.

2011-10-07T16:09:00.001-07:00

last night, I remembered what love felt like

2011-10-03T21:41:00.001-07:00

had i known a love like this
all along
i would have danced.
i would have captured
each moment and each day
had i known.
had i known your love was so
pure and giving
of life
for today
and for tomorrow,
i wouldn't have let one
moment pass by without
acknowledging my love
for you too.
had i known this love
which you so freely give
me,

i wouldn't have turned
away.

Jesus.

passed all my tests today

2011-09-28T18:12:00.001-07:00

but

Good news:

2011-09-23T17:20:00.001-07:00

I still have a brain.

Bad news:

its hurts.

On the weekends

2011-09-18T00:32:00.000-07:00

We prefer to hang out with the natives and play dress up with our friends.

2011-09-13T13:55:00.000-07:00

Am I supposed to call this home?

2011-09-11T13:17:00.001-07:00

It's not the road we used to know
They tore some buildings down
The traffic's like a pack of dogs

There's fewer trees, windows, fleas
There's concrete on the lawn
There's people here but you are gone

And I find still swimming through time
Afraid some days I've reached the shore

"Make yourself free"
Man said back to me
Now my heart is like an open door

And the road finally gave me back
But I dont think I'll unpack
Because I'm not sure if I live here any more

It's not my weight that makes me faint
Or the sugar in my blood
But the way these strangers stand so close

They say my name like a guessing game
"Is that really you?"
No, I dont think it ever was

In the spring
When the world's turning green
I only think about the fall
The frets on the board
My progression of chords
Oh, how I want this to resolve

And the road finally gave me back
But I dont think I'll unpack
Because I'm not sure if I live here any more

Now the road finally gave me back
But I dont think I'll unpack

Because I'm not sure if I live here
No, I'm not sure if I live here
No, I'm not sure if I live here
Anymore

- Bright Eyes

(listened by my weary eyes)

Things.

2011-09-08T20:26:00.000-07:00

Today was nothing special, yet my brain seemed to be at work. I usually don't pick up on simple things, but I thought how odd that I could learn/think of 3 great things in one day. Today was a good day; or, my life is dull.

Gullah Island is a real place.
Tie Dye. Of course. You tie and... dye.
October should be the 8th month. Why is October not the 8th month?

Riddle me this Batman.

I need to start thinking more...

Altruism by way of self-improvement, or what optimizing your workflow has to do with saving children.

2011-09-07T07:53:00.000-07:00

End Malaria is a book. One who's effort inspires to bridge the gap between selflessness and self-interest, inviting you to help eradicate both malaria and your own creative plateaus with something as humble yet potent as a book — what’s not to love?

source

Damsel in Distress.

2011-09-02T20:26:00.000-07:00

Somebody save me
I don't care how you do it
Just stay
Stay
Come on
I've been waiting for you

The Great American Roadtrip Volume VI

2011-08-30T18:30:00.000-07:00

I'm not sure at what point my brain decided to stop retaining information. I think it was somewhere over the Atlantic. I've not recovered from the last 3 years of travelling it seems. And still, I don't feel as though my body has physically been that far from home. But whenever I look at a globe, it astonishes me to see just how far this body actually went. My spirit seems to be wading in one of those distant lands because now, sleep has escaped me and I'm afraid I've been plagued with a never-ending jet-lag. Therefore I must document my days lest I forget them forever.

Just this past summer I've travelled all over the mid-west, almost touched the East coast, up and down mountains, and returned yet again to the great South.

But this weekend in Kentucky marked the end of another great year of adventure for my life. My travelling came to completion with an exhibition on The Carter Family, a live show by my buddies from the Hogslop String Band, free records from #1 Carter Family man himself, a visit to WKU and its 3 locked libraries, with one final shabang featuring a little porch show with the beautiful miss Sarah Carter (not related to the former), a delicious collage of food, Mexican Beer... and fireworks to celebrate :)

View Full Size Travel Map at Travellerspoint

2011-08-30T16:43:00.000-07:00

"A few times in my life, I've had moments of absolute clarity. When for a few brief seconds ... the silence drowns out the noise .. and I can feel ... rather than think. And things seem so sharp. And the world seems so fresh.

It's as though it had all just come into existence. I can never make these moments last. I cling to them, but like everything, they fade. I've lived my life on these moments. And I realize that everything is exactly the way it's meant to be."

- A Single Man

Favourite

2011-08-24T19:15:00.000-07:00

Let's watch

The Labyrinth.

2011-08-15T20:27:00.000-07:00

I never thought I would be able or have reason to admit my (horrible) habit of listening to cheesy Christian music. While I find most CCM overly trite and way too conventional it brings me back to the place I need to be sometimes: as a child seated with Abba, Father.

But this hopeless romantic's little heart can't help but be touched/broken/destroyed by this song. Every time I hear it I tear up a little (okay, alot) and wonder if a guy who really hopes these things (in the last chorus) might really exist out there. And even so, would we happen to meet?

by EMI_Music

2011-08-13T16:48:00.001-07:00

2011-08-11T21:47:00.000-07:00

I don't deserve you

2011-08-07T21:22:00.000-07:00

yet, somehow

you catch me when I fall.

even when i was dead in my trespasses, he made me alive together with Christ— by grace i have been saved

->Eph. 2:5

2011-08-06T12:35:00.000-07:00

"compassion cannot be contained"

- shane claibourne

This Summer at Camp

2011-08-03T19:54:00.000-07:00

My life is at peace, but will never settle. I am content, yet ready to move. I could never imagine stopping on this adventure. I take every moment for what it is worth and try to taste the sweetness each second brings. Father you have given me all I need, and for that I praise you!!!

Today some of the cutest, brightest girls and I made magic bubble wands at the camp I recently started to work at. I wanted this job at the beginning of the summer, but because of conflict in schedule I have not been able to join them until now. The children bring joy to my heart and the freedom of the outdoors makes me glad! I am so blessed.

Neofeudalism for the win.

2011-07-27T08:18:00.000-07:00

everything is fine, just keep shopping.

Travelling the World.

2011-07-26T14:25:00.000-07:00

It was all an illusion.

Right?

Oh, The Joys of Nannying

2011-07-25T06:14:00.000-07:00

He likes to play me songs and told me, "This ones called Having Fun in the Summer Time - nothing you should be concerned about."

The playlist for today:

Having Fun in the Summer Time

Are You an Alien?

Do You Have My Football?

We're heading to the studio tomorrow.

Our Daughter America

2011-07-22T16:20:00.001-07:00

Watch out folks. Timbre and I are about to take over.

Jul 28
Firestorm Cafe and Books
Asheville, NC

Jul 29
The White Hart Cafe
Lynchburg, VA 7pm

Jul 30
Twisted Branch Tea Bazaar
Charlottesville, VA

2011-07-20T06:20:00.000-07:00

Hooray!

2011-07-18T14:37:00.000-07:00

Before I could even send out my request for others to help, the girls got enough support to go to summer camp! Notice Selu (top left)'s face.

Priceless.

More over at the blog...

2011-07-18T08:55:00.000-07:00

crap, culture, and chai

2011-07-15T09:32:00.000-07:00

India has been pressing on my mind since before the bombs. I was there just months after the attacks a few years ago in 2008.

It just so happened that I was there the same week as former President Bush, so I was told. I never saw the man, but I was always on the lookout for he and his posse. Somehow I've never seen a president in person and thought it would be ironic to see one of our own in Asia. Too bad for me; my timing was off.

I stood at this place across from where Mr. Bush supposedly stayed. There was a bomb scare that week and I was certain we might be evacuated.

India is not quite like you see in the films. I've never seen Darjeeling Limited but I always assumed Wes Anderson portrayed it as cool, spiritual, and beautifully toned. I guess I saw more of the Born Into Brothels side, or places like the streets Jamal ran down in Slum Dog Millionare, winding through cars and filth in his neighborhood.

The trains we rode on smelled of feces and contained no places to sit or stand that you could guarantee to be sanitary. Though it seems I miss this dirty, smelling place and count on returning someday soon.

In Mumbai, I met a wonderful young woman named Stephanie who started and runs iSanctuary. Its a place of hope and freedom; refuge and peace. After all my experiences I have so many more questions for Stephanie. We spoke briefly about how things work and talked over a "round table" with several nuns who help run the organization to discus the possibility of partnership. Sadly, I've lost touch with them since. I've always looked up to her courageous spirit. I'd guess she's around 30, single, and lives on her own in India. That's a woman to look up to. I guess this is just a reminder for me of my hopes, dreams, and aspirations. India is forever on my heart. I hope my new degree program can set me on the right path to bringing freedom to other women in this world. There are so many held captive but not only their men, but ideals, laws, and their poverty. It's going to be another long, tough road, but I feel as though in the past few years I've had enough practice to get through it this time.

in dreams.

2011-07-12T11:08:00.000-07:00

This reminds me so much of a dream I had recently. Except in it I was clothed and my dream was in stereo, not mono.

I was standing outside of a large but narrow yellow house which sat on the bay. It was night time, but the air seemed to glow something of purple. I don't know how to describe it other than that green/yellowish tent after a tornado, you know? But purple. I stopped and starred above into the night sky. The stars were magnificent. All the sudden the vast array of stars formed into a cluster and started swirling above. The round cluster was then engulfed by a black hole. Another cluster formed. This time it was a rainbow of colors. Another black hole. Another cluster. This happened five or six times. I stood amazed awaiting the coming of the Lord. I remember so vividly in my dream being so convinced that Jesus was coming back.

But after the sixth black hole a huge, bright light appeared. It wasn't an angel. It was an alien spaceship. In my dream. I paused, then suddenly realized the danger I was in and sprinted inside. I closed the door behind me a wrestled around to find my car keys. I a went back outside to get into my car as the spaceship crashed on the other side of the house, next to the sea. A couple of young women ran over to the crash and I was sure aliens would kill all of them.

I woke up before any such aliens appeared, but could not get the beauty of the multi-colored swirling cluster of stars out of my mind.

I've never seen aliens in my dreams before. I wondered what they were doing there. What were they trying to tell me?

Tennessee summer sizzle

2011-07-12T09:09:00.000-07:00

I just want to ride. Maybe tonight. Under the stars. Let's go.

2011-07-06T19:47:00.000-07:00

2011-07-06T10:27:00.000-07:00

2011-07-04T16:09:00.001-07:00

2011-07-03T13:14:00.000-07:00

"I think we have so many questions to ask. But I think we have so few people to answer them."

You and me both brother. You and me both...

No words.

2011-06-27T19:33:00.000-07:00

I am speechless.

God has given me so many things I've asked for these last few months. Everything from little hopes, to great needs. And even a few things I never knew I wanted.

a pair of running shoes

a small, black travel backpack (yes, that specific)

several cups of coffee

a few free meals

a chance to meet my favorite activist

meeting one of my favorite designers

connecting with a world renowned author

an interview with a CEO of a phenomenal organization

a chance to become a new partner with a creative advocacy organization

a desk chair to die for

5 vintage luggage pieces

beads to last me 3 years

a free ride and ticket to my favorite summer event

a place to live

a chance to finish my degree for free

places to stay when I'm travelling

several jobs

and patience in waiting.

I know there are more, but I've had too many to remember. I never once stopped to asked twice for these things. They were mere flutters in my heart; things that, you know, might be nice. And they are nice. Oh, they are magnificent.

There is a romance in knowing that the creator knows my heart. The little things.

2011-06-21T10:02:00.001-07:00

To keep you moving on these rainy summer days.

The Hood Internet - Lump Sum Of Paris (Bon Iver x Friendly Fires x Aeroplane) by hoodinternet

Making new jewels

2011-06-19T22:01:00.000-07:00

This has been a fun week. There's been a whole lotta beading goin' on.

So many good things happening

2011-06-19T20:52:00.001-07:00

I don't know where to start. Maybe that I am alive and well. God is faithful and everyday he has new presents for his children. I think the best present of all that daddy could have given us is the gift of family.

In just the last year or so I've begun to really learn about my family history and where I come from. My grandmother has been going crazy over there at the family tree - digging up things from the past that only the luckiest could ever get a chance to discover. I come from a long lineage of missionaries, intellectuals, and passionate blue-collar workmen. The most astounding would have to be one of my for-fathers on my mother's side, John Rogers. He may have been the first person to ever print a complete English Bible that was translated directly from the original Greek & Hebrew. Not only was he a translator, he went so far as to take his faith publicly leading him to become a martyr - even being written about in Foxe's Book of Martyrs. His line leads to other missionaries like Claire Rogers who rode on a horse and buggy right before the civil war broke out to preach the gospel to the native Americans in the south. I've read several handwritten letters from Claire to her family back north. She speaks of riding through the rivers in Knoxville and living off of just warm tomato soup and water. Unfortunately, sickness and war broke out leading her and the rest of the family back to safety. They never met the natives that day, but legend has it, my great great grandfather was Iroquois. Something in this blood of ours lead us to eventually be united.

On my fathers side, we talk little about a great uncle of mine and crazy outlaw, Claude Eatherly, who became a bank robber and ran from the law on several occasions after coming to terms with his past. He wanted so badly to make up for the wrong he did in Hiroshima, so he robbed from the rich and gave to the poor. Just like Robin Hood. He was a pilot on one of seven B-29s of the 393rd Bomb Squadron of the 509th Composite Group that took part in the Hiroshima mission. He wrote about his concerns with the mission and the institution as a whole,

I believe that we are rapidly approaching a situation in which we shall be compelled to reexamine our willingness to surrender responsibility for our thoughts and our actions to some social institution such as the political party, trade union, church or State. None of these institutions are adequately equipped to offer infallible advice on moral issues and their claim to offer such advice needs therefore to be challenged."

Though I don't agree with many of his actions he took on later in his life, I do respect that he was able to think for himself and wanted so much that the people of this nation would as well.

I hope I can continue this family tradition of brave souls and adventurous stories. I think I was able to give my dad the best father's day gift a daughter could give (well, except a child... but I don't think that will happen any time in the near future).

I was able to let my dad know he need not to worry about this girls' future. I'm going back to school to finish my degree and the great state of Tennessee is paying for it. Thank you Jesus for no income and independency :)

I know not everyone can be so blessed to call their earthly fathers great, but I do hope you get a glimpse at our Heavenly father and his wonderful masterpiece he is weaving together with our lives today. Though I must say, I'm a lucky girl, I think both of my dads are pretty amazing.

2011-06-18T18:18:00.001-07:00

2011-06-17T21:15:00.000-07:00

"O Lord, make me an instrument of Thy Peace.

Where there is hatred, let me sow love.

Where there is injury, pardon.

Where there is discord, harmony.

Where there is doubt, faith.

Where there is despair, hope.

Where there is darkness, light.

Where there is sorrow, joy.

Lord, may I not so much seek to be consoled as to console;

to be understood as to understand;

to be loved as to love;

for it is in giving that we receive;

it is in pardoning that we are pardoned;

and it is in dying that we are born to eternal life."

- St. Francis

sometimes I want to be

2011-06-14T07:19:00.001-07:00

anywhere but here.

it's when the world stops.

2011-06-10T09:31:00.000-07:00

your heart skips a beat.
your breath is taken away.
all because you know someone loves you.

I've been watching all kinds of kids the past two weeks. Some crazier than others including this mischievious one, Jackson. I think my nephew knows just how smart he is. He can always use his cuteness to get what he wants. He likes to carry purses and wear high-heels. I'm hoping he grows out of this. Turn on some music and he can't help but dance. I think that's why we get along so well.

I'm so thankful I get to be in his life again. He's one of three reasons why I had to come back to this bizarre world known as America.

I'm getting ready for the Wild Goose Festival coming up in two weeks.

"The Wild Goose Festival seeks to be a place where people of faith and people who struggle with faith (which might be all of us?) can wrestle together with what it means to be people who live at the intersection of justice, creativity, and spirituality in the 21st century. This is a conversation our larger culture is having, involving artists, authors, blue collar workers, ministers, and more."

I have so much jewelry I still need to make and artwork to pack up. Oh, there even seems to be some hype about the book I helped design over at the blog :)

I'm becoming giddy about meeting my fellow artists at the festival including all the people at Compathos and not to mention Shane Claibourne!!!! Friends of Compathos are even sending another book my way for re-design. I'm too blessed to have all of these amazing opportunities.

You can order the book on Amazon! [my cover design]

inspiration

2011-05-28T15:23:00.001-07:00

Beauty.

Grizzly Bear - While You Wait for the Others from Sean Pecknold on Vimeo.

I'm almost ready

2011-05-26T16:33:00.000-07:00

I'm back from my final trip to the big city and beyond. I still remain carless and cell phone free as if I'm still travelling. But watch out Nashville, next week I will be a true American with a job, a car, and (kind of) a place to live :)

Dearest airplanes and airports: you will not be missed this year.

Love,
Steph

sweet sweet NYC

2011-05-22T00:32:00.000-07:00

I shall see you in a few hours. We will be friends tommorrow. After 36 hours in your airport, I'm sure we'll hit it off great.

p.s. would someone plese go here with me?

Notes from Josh

2011-05-19T02:00:00.000-07:00

"God is giving his children all the gifts to kick butt in the spirit realm".

what do you have that you did not recieve? therefore we cannot boast about the gifts we have. scars are trophies of spiritual accomplishment. people with scars have been deeply wounded but allowed God to heal them.

God is setting us up for a journey with him. this doesn't mean was are safe from being beaten, rather we have all the gifts and abilities to pick ourselves up after we've been tread upon.

this weekend i start my journey home. moving back to america means so much more than leaving germany. in fact, i don't even feel as if i'm "leaving" as much as i am "bringing" all these things i've learned, the relationships i've gained, and the knowledge i now have with me. its a new begining, a fresh start to walk into everything God has built up inside of me. i find this time a chance to use all the gifts that have been revealed in me. i'm going to continue to help the poor. i want to continue to encourage others to help the less fourtunate because in doing so, there is a healing done inside of the giver.

but enough about me. may God's kingdom be present wherever we go. may his good work be revealed in time.

i'm on a journey. will you join me?

I went to Italy

2011-05-18T14:30:00.000-07:00

it was marvelous

When In Rome

2011-05-13T14:35:00.000-07:00

Life could not be more grand.

THE MOVIE

2011-05-05T13:48:00.000-07:00

VISIT: http://drawnfromwaterthemovie.com/for more info.

Your products made from slaves?

2011-05-05T06:07:00.000-07:00

El Roi

2011-04-30T04:30:00.001-07:00

Some of you know a bit about the project Pick a Pocket supports in Mombasa, Kenya. This pre-school is run by a local woman (and good friend) Christine Opereh. We showed up on a Sunday to pay a visit. It was during our vacation week in Kenya so we did not intend on seeing the children, but only wanted to bless Mrs. Opereh with a few supplies for the kids. On our walk to the building with Christine we were greeted by a dozen or so children with faces brightly lit as they got a glimpse at their favorite teacher. It was Sunday and even though there was no class to be had, about 20 of her students caught word she was there and showed up on the steps to greet us. They recited the alphabet and a few songs in English for their new American friends. We got a tour of the one-room building and interviewed her to see what her next steps and needs were.

The pre-school was established to give street children the chance at an education. It is specifically for street kids who have AIDS/HIV. Christine had a dream to start her own school for children who suffer from this disease and had no chance at getting an education. Almost 3 years ago she saved enough money to establish a plan with a small one-room schoolhouse and a few volunteers from her own family. Today there are about 40 kids who attend classes on a daily basis. Because of Kenyan law, every child must have their own books, uniform, and supplies.

Because the children come from families with little to no income, their supplies must come from outside support, or from the pocket of Christine herself. I was able to give $100 to help pay for three children to buy uniforms and to go towards a fund supplying each student with their very own backpack. I know it wasn't much, but I know a little help, encouragment, and prayer can go a long way.

The schools' biggest need at the moment is funding to buy private land and a building. It would only take about $25,000 USD to get this started, and would also allow Christine to have one less worry of rent each month. Pick a Pocket hopes to continue to support these children and to spread the word about small things being done by local people with a huge heart.

"We can do no great things, only small things with great love." - Mother Teresa

Summer is coming

2011-04-28T16:18:00.000-07:00

must. have. these. tights....

Chickens, Church, and Change

2011-04-24T12:41:00.000-07:00

It's not Africa unless you find yourself on a bus crambed full of people, starring into the eyes of an innocent chicken in the lap of the woman next to you while holding a box carried onto the bus by an elderly woman. This box probably contains her office: a jebula (Ethiopian coffee pot) perhaps, or maybe ambasha (traditional bread), or the fixings for her and her daughters Easter feast of dorrowet and injera (chicken with sauce).

Celebration, joy, and mourning are in the air as we come to the close of Christianity's most important holiday: Easter. With a bit (okay a ton) of relief there is no such thing as a sly pink Easter bunny in these parts, I rest in knowing that because of today I am saved. Easter is only about the sacrafice, pain, suffering, and redemption in the life and resurection of our Christ. It's always seemed to me (in America) that the most important day in everyone's life has sadly (no, devestatingly) turned into another day of superficial stuff without substance. I believe the more I'm away from my country, the more it sickens me to see just how much we have wrong.

It's good friday and were laying everything down at the cross...

Jesus mission was to restore us back to what we were created to be. He is the meaning of prefix: putting things back to where they once stood. Restoring returning repenting reviving.

2011-03-25T15:12:00.000-07:00

PRAISE BE TO THE GOD WHO LOVES, THE GOD WHO SAVES, AND THE GOD WHO IS COMING!!!!

2011-03-22T18:02:00.000-07:00

Plain text version:
So as most of you know I entered into full time ministry over two years ago. I was compelled to act upon the things I saw in the third world. I wanted to help those in need with the talents and skills I possessed. Namely with my art and design. But God has had a different plan. I thought my service would come form through making designs and putting together brochures. Boy, was I off. Since joining Pick a Pocket in April of 2009, God has showed me the numerous ways He likes to further His Kingdom through our submission - by praying, teaching, fasting, or just loving others. My passion for prayer grew during my outreach as I had to constantly lean on God. I will have to say that my two and a half months stay in Ethiopia was one of the most lonely times of my life. I was in the middle of a desert with people I barely knew, thousands of miles from my family, and had one near death experience which changed my complete outlook on life.

During my time in Ethiopia, several Pick a Pocket founders led us to a tribe. This particular tribe in the Rift Valley of the Omo region of Ethiopia practiced an inhumane tradition called Mingi. As most of you know, Mingi has been the cause to over 77 infant and child deaths a year in the past. This tradition deemed any child born out of wedlock, or a child whos teeth grew or fell from the top first a curse. These children were drowned, abandoned, starved, or eaten by wild animals because they were not worthy to live. The Mingi curse was said to bring war and famine to this tribe. Therefore if one of these children was found on the land, the tribe as a whole was in danger.

This tradition has taken place for over hundreds of years. Many missionaries have tried to stop its vicious cycle since it came to the public's eye. My crazy leaders introduced it to us during my DTS while living in our comfortable homes in Herrnhut, Germany. We were shocked and knew even before setting foot on African soil that this must end. The first week in Ethiopia we sent a team down to rescue a Mingi child. Unfortunately for us and him or her, we were too late. I know that God has a special place in heaven for this child. This young soul changed the hearts in us all. We continued to press forward through prayer and fasting, but most importantly, though action. We loaded up three land rovers to taxi us through the rough torain of the Omo Rift Valley. Three days and tons of puking, mosquito bites, and sunburns later we arrived in the tribe. We learned of a two year old Mingi child who was to be killed by the elders in mere days. A small part of our team trekked several miles to the father land to consult the parents about a possible rescue. They were relieved to see us foreigners care, but numb to the idea we would actually follow through. We received permission to take the child and scheduled a meeting time 48 hours later.

Heat, exhaustion, dehydration, and stomach cramps were kicking in at full force, but beyond the pain of being situated near the Earth's equator during one of the driest seasons, the heartache of knowing a precious little girl would be killed on this land during our stay outweighed the pain by far.

But we did it. We followed through with our promise and we met that family 48 hours later.

Bale was bright and beautiful. I got the honor to ride in the Land Rover up to the nearest city with this jewel. We met with a former tribesman who has committed his life to Jesus and the stopping of Mingi. We started a children's home that day and thought this was just the beginning of something great.

But it wasn't. it was a nightmare. The home was taken away from us. We were not allowed to be in Bale's life anymore. Kristen, my leader and young woman who first held Bale was at the mercy of another church who had their own agenda. We now had no say in the lives of these children. Our hopes and dreams were to see these children (we rescued 9 on that outreach) grow up into a loving Christian community and return to their parents to share the love of Christ with them. This church decided to adopt out the children and make a ministry into a business.

It was heartbreaking and confusing to say the least.

"God, I did all the right things. I wrote and designed pretty newsletters. I became a missionary. I made a video. I. I. I.....

"I guess I did forget one thing. This is were we need YOU".

So we prayed. We prayed so much, we had this particular church telling us to stop. That was my favorite part. I had one of my first instances of persecution that season. I was not going to stop crying out to my Great King because I knew He was bigger. The team never stopped. Kristen led several girls in weekly prayer and encouraged all of us to not give up on this situation. We still wanted Mingi to end, but at this point we had no say in the lives of these children and no platform to speak into the tribe.

So we prayed.

Less than three years later, I stand (well, lay snuggly in my bed) today and say that God heard our prayers. Mingi is over. His GLORIOUS plans outweighed ours. Mingi did not end because we were there to tell the tribe elders it is wrong. Mingi did not end because we wrote nice, elegantly designed letters. Mingi ended because God is good and He is LOVE.

Today Mingi is illegal. Today punishment comes to those who chose to practice this form of evil. God reigns on high!

Since its founding in April 2008, Pick a Pocket has directly effected the lives of over 100 people. That means that each one of us 34 crazy young adults (mostly without a college degree) have directly helped at least 2 people out of extreme poverty. All of this in less than 3 years. This is just the beginning and I want to invite YOU to be apart of this!

I'm not saying that God moves in situations like these only through Pick a Pocket but I want to leave you with these questions:

Did you know God can move through you like he did this group? What are you doing with your life? How are you helping to further God's Kingdom?

Maybe you are serving at a homeless shelter weekly, supporting a missionary monthly, mentoring a single-parent child daily, or raising funds to adopt and Ethiopian child like my dear cousins Michael and Amy in order to change a life forever. Great! But if not, why? Why aren't you helping? I don't want to preach hear because it is not my place, but I do know that from experience, a life of service and Kingdom seeking is worth so so so much more than a selfish, comfortable life in a Western country.

But how can you change, you ask? Simple. You could quit you job. Drop all your responsibilities now and come join us in Herrnhut, Germany for a Discipleship Training School. Or maybe you could get in touch with a Pick a Pocket member and ask how you can pray for them, or even help us plan an event in your home town/church - a place which could give us a platform to share about more of the INCREDIBLE things God is doing. Sometimes I think to myself, "man, I could write a book with all the experiences, miracles, and lives I've been blessed to be apart of the past two years". Then I remember, "Oh yea, I already have!"

I don't want to challenge anyone to just "help out" once in a while. I'm calling you to a transformed lifestyle. One that will bring you closer to the presence of God. One that is way more challenging, yet a MILLION times more rewarding! I pray God shows you where He is pushing you to go.

One last thought:

”Pure and genuine religion in the sight of God the Father means caring for the orphans and widows in their distress and refusing to let the world corrupt you.” James 1:27

update: I don't want to leave this post with any sort of negative throughts towards the church that once did us wrong. Since many converstaions and discussions over our plans, we have come into full forgiveness on each side. They are and have always been part of our family... under God's Kingdom. Ethiopia continues to throw fast balls to each of our minstries persuaded us to leave or quit but we believe we are there by God's orders and will persist until the end. God be with them.

TOMS

2011-03-07T11:25:00.001-08:00

So believe it or not world, but this girl has never owned a pair of TOMS. Quite frankly I think they are wayyyyy too over priced. I could give 10 kids a pair of shoes for 50 bucks, but I thought, it's my birthday. I can ask right???

So DONATE HERE to give to the Stephanie birthday fund!

Passport Lilac Women's Vegan Classics

I don't know why these particular shoes choose to be vegan, but I think they are way cute. Maybe a new African friend can have vegan shoes today too!

blessings,

Steph

Come&Live!

2011-03-04T10:44:00.000-08:00

A ministry from my home church.

As my pastor would say, "THESE GUYS ARE LEGIT!"

Chad Johnson and his crew are comitted to bringing the Kingsom wherever they are. I look up to these guys so much as an encouragment that people in America ARE striving for the Kingdom!

One of their bands Ascend The Hill has gotten me through many hard days. Their music radiates spirit and truth.

It was such an honor to be apart of making this tour happen. They did a fundraiser through kickstarter not to long ago and here is just a preview of things that happened:

C&L! New Zealand (The Story) Teaser from Come&Live! on Vimeo.

If you're ever looking for a good read, check out thier blog You can also get free music from their site. I recommend the Ember Days and Ascend The Hill!

I Burnt The Butter

2011-03-02T08:45:00.000-08:00

or The House Is One Fire

I just finished my favorite meal. One I've been perfecting over these past few months. Toast, cooked to perfection, with organic butter melted on top and oatmeal with flax and honey. I've gotten to proportions just right. My flatmate is perparing her chicken with goat cheese and cranberry. Something I will not be eating for awhile after reading Eating Animals. I've not come to my own conviction that honey harms bees, so I'm still indulging on my sweet honeybee treat daily.

My toasty meal reminds me of fall and my childhood. This year I will hopefully get to celebrate one of my most prized holidays (or not so much a HOLIday as an-excuse-to-see-my-cute-neices-in-their-creative-costumes-and-do-stupid-things-with-my-family-day) It's a tradition in our family. My dad usually blows something up. My neice will have the most creative costume on the block. And I get to see neighbors I rarely see anymore out and about on this special night.

Before I leave for America I get to encounter Jesus in the poor in Ethiopia. I get to walk where Paul walked after being sent by God in the book of Acts and then was martyred. I get to bring in the summer with my favorite people on earth in one of the most beautiful cities in the wolrd: ROMA.

I get to see God in a new light when Heidi Baker reeks havok on Nashville.

I get to go to the east coast to join forces with Native Americans and people guided by one Spirit to bring justice through music and art.

I hope to travel to the west coast to see a best friend and find healing in Redding.

I get to go to Florirda in September to take a break and make the summer last as long as I can.

God is good. A year ago I would not have seen myself where I am today. And it's all because His ideas and plans are SO much bigger and better than my own. I can't wait to see where He leads next :)

If you need good sounds in your life today watch listen to this, my good friends originally from Chi-town:

They make my soul SING!

2011-02-25T03:31:00.000-08:00

MILLIONS AGAINST MONSANTO

Why? Read the follwoing: 10 Things Monsanto Does Not Want You to Know

I will say it again

2011-02-23T04:52:00.000-08:00

"Animal agriculture makes a 40% greater contribution to global warming than all transportation in the world combined; it is the number one cause of climate change...

"omnivores contribute seven times the volume of greenhouse gases that vegans do...

"Most simply put, someone who regularly eats factory-farmed animal products cannot call himself an environmentalist without divorcing that word from its meaning..."

too good

Art Day!

2011-02-19T04:34:00.000-08:00

Thursdays mark Pick a Pocket's traditional weekly event: ART DAY. This Thursday I decided to give Liz a little visit. This was the outcome of my visitation:

This is honestly a normal Thursday in the Manchenn household.

IN ALL I DO, I HONOR YOU

2011-02-15T02:25:00.001-08:00

I'm slowly but surely getting my list of fair trade products together. I believe honoring God continues on giving fair wage and keeping people out of captivity with the products we buy. I've not perfected it yet, but it's on it's way. Here are a few of my favorites:

WORLD OF GOOD

DR. BRONNER

DIVINE CHOCOLATE

Feel free to add to this list :)

A new kind of global marketplace

2011-02-14T12:32:00.000-08:00

For conventional economists, it’s a frightening concept that would slow growth, reduce the flow of world trade and curb consumption. It would force us to rethink just about every economic axiom we’ve taken for granted since the dawn of the industrial age.

Adding in the cost of you ecological footprint to every item you buy should (I would hope) promt you to think twice about the consumer choices you make. I'm studying more about this issue and have determined that the least I can do is use less, create more. Something I was convicted of while in Africa was: "is what I'm producing creating life?"

I know God is challenging me to give instead of take. Not only from Him, but from this Earth He's given us.

I can't wait to be back in the states and have a garden. I can't wait to make hummus andcan my own fruits and veggies :) Oh and learn mom's secret pickle recipe. Southern cookin' here I come!

THINGS I DON'T GET

2011-02-13T04:48:00.000-08:00

I just can't
iPhones
Macs
Tattoos
Hipsters
Fashion
Owning stuff

It's something deeper. People are looking for recognition from this world. From others. But what we really need and should be seeking for is the acceptance that can come from the Father. Not stuff. And good news, He's already provided that :)

My newest work:

Rich girl; poor girl.

Inspired by: Cory Absury, Bill Johnson, Komoto Dragon, and packing.

THE LORD HAS GIVEN US FREEDOM, GIVEN US FREEDOM,

GIVEN US JOY!

SEND COFFEE

2011-02-13T04:17:00.000-08:00

I take mine with cream

Untere Dorfstr. 56
Herrnhut, Germany

TO MY SNOWED IN FAMILY IN TENNESSEE

2011-02-10T11:12:00.000-08:00

currently missing:

currently reading :

currently humming:

Be Thou my vision, O Lord of my heart;
Naught be all else to me, save that Thou art.
Thou my best thought, by day or by night,
Waking or sleeping, Thy presence my light.

Be Thou my Wisdom, Thou my true Word;
I ever with Thee, Thou with me, Lord;
Thou my great Father, I thy true son;
Thou in me dwelling, and I with Thee one.

Riches I heed not, nor man's empty praise,
Thou mine inheritance, now and always:
Thou and Thou only, first in my heart,
High King of heaven, my Treasure Thou art.

High King of heaven, my victory won,
May I reach heaven's joys, O bright heav'ns Son!
Heart of my own heart, whatever befall,
Still be my vision, O ruler of all.

Dorthy Day

2011-02-06T13:10:00.000-08:00

For know, dear ones, that every one of us is undoubtedly responsible for all men and everything on earth, not merely through the general sinfulness of creation, but each one personally for all mankind and every individual man. For monks are not a special sort of man, but only what all men ought to be. Only through that knowledge, our heart grows soft with infinite, universal, inexhaustible love. Then every one of you will have the power to win over the whole world by love and to wash away the sins of the world with your tears. . .Each of you keep watch over your heart and confess your sins to yourself unceasingly. . .Hate not the atheists, the teachers of evil, the materialists, and I mean not only the good ones--for there are many good ones among them, especially in our day--hate not even the wickedness. Remember them in your prayers thus: Save, O Lord, all those who have none to pray for them, save too all those who will not pray. And add, it is not in pride that I make this prayer, O Lord, for I am lower than all men. . ."

"Holier Than Thou"

I quote this because that accusation "holier than thou" is also made against us. And we must all admit our guilt, our participation in the social order which has resulted in this monstrous crime of war.

We used to have a poor demented friend who came into the office to see us very often, beating his breast, quoting the penitential psalms in Hebrew, and saying that everything was his fault. Through all he had done and left undone, he had brought about the war, the revolution.

That should be our cry, with every mouthful we eat, "We are starving Europe!" When we look to our comfort in a warm bed, a warm home, we must cry, "My brother, my mother, my child is dying of cold.

"I am lower than all men, because I do not love enough. O God take away my heart of stone and give me a heart of flesh."

- (Dorothy Day Library on the Web at http://www.catholicworker.org/dorothyday/)

2011-02-06T12:21:00.000-08:00

Successful Living
by Green Patriot Editors

I don't understand

2011-01-25T13:15:00.000-08:00

First of all I have no intention of judging or offending anyone by this post, I simply hope to portray my concern, personal convictions, and ask a few questions.

The past few months I've been travelling I have noticed that especially in the "Christian world" people are fascinated with Apple products. Now, don't get me wrong, I think Apple produces great products that are aesthetically pleasing and work well. But I've noticed that across the board in America, most churches, "Christians" (I use this term lightly), and pastors have and use Apple 99.9% of the time. I've seen them in church services, conferences, by preachers, and the congregation tweeting or reading their Bible via iPhone. Personally the latter is just sick. I know it's convenient and I myself have a Kindle so I have no room to talk about it's versatility, but REALLY?

I don't get it. Personally I would rather save the $500-$3000 on my computer and other products than have the infamous Apple symbol peaking out. I've never had a problem with my PC, my Sony MP3 player, or my free Nokia flip phone. I have all the same programs as you, and some other features that I think are even greater (smart keys, easy to type, and not having my screen disappear every time I use the touch pad.)

So my question is, are you ashamed to own a PC? Does your Mac define you? Or you simply have so much money to spend that you don't care how much your computer or phone costs? Really I would like to know because I could give you a few ideas of where you could donate that extra money. I'm not kidding.

I know a few friends who have had nice Macbooks given to them and I love that. They really need them and use them for work. And I hope some day some one donates a Macbook Pro i7 with 8GB of ram. I will not complain :)
I mean, as long as you give double of what you gave to me to the poor first.

But to me that's almost asking for someone to donate a Mercedes Benz when a beat up Dodge Caravan will work just fine.... which I wouldn't mind either. The Dodge, not the Benz.

And like I said, please do not yell at me for this. I really do want to know the truth.

"the power the pleasure, the possessions of this world, they pale in comparison to the beauty of my lord"

Francesco Giusti

2011-01-21T18:43:00.000-08:00

There is a truth in his images that I have never seen before. Giusti has revealed something so innocent, yet offsetting. I don't really know how to express my feelings into words right away.

It is almost as if I am an impostor in someone's life by viewing these. Are they posed or unposed?

Art and India

2011-01-19T09:40:00.000-08:00

For months I've planning to return to India to create a short documentary for a good friend Vera. Born and raised in Mumbai, she found out about Kamathipura (the largest red light district in East Asia) through a friend of mine with she was studying in America. Appalled, she returned to India and started a children's home for 9 girls whose mothers are/where prostitutes. Some of which have since past from AIDS.

Vera and her team want to open a second-hand shop for the mothers and older girls. The shop would be training grounds for further careers in tailoring, jewelry making, painting, accounting, and will also host home to discipleship. The shop will be a safe place the women can escape to in their realities of life. I also hope to get the film translated into Hindi. It will be taken to Universities around Mumbai to show the locals the horrors of what is happening in their own city - since the work is shunned, the city seldom mentions the horrific things that take place throughout the winding ally-ways .

If you are on the eastside, you can stop by Bongo Java. My work is now showing the entire month of January on 11th S and Woodland.