Chris Warren's Word

Humor For The Day

2006-07-28T05:01:00.000-07:00

Watch out...Terrorists....If you see these "Duke boys" coming...you might not find this shop to help you up a particular creek....

Poor Judgement-More w/ Update

2006-06-15T04:06:00.000-07:00

UPDATE:

OK... listened to song. Very tongue and cheek. Probably inappropriate but hardly hate-speech. Hardly worth getting in an uproar over.

Michelle Malkin has more on the Marine and the Hadji Girl song. There does appear to be a double standard within the MSM. However my opinion still stands. Fair, unfair, or somewhere in between...he didn't do himself any favors.

If This Is True...Poor Judgement!!

2006-06-14T11:58:00.000-07:00

Hopefully in the end this will amount to little.

You've got to admit, though...if this Marine's story pans out he gets the idiot of the year award for writing and having his performance video taped. It this hypercharged environment when certain people are looking for reasons to bash the troops (true of false)...throwing blood in the water is a poor idea. No one wants the feed frenzie.

News flash...If you're a member of the U.S. military...I don't care if your Army, Coast Guard, Marine, Navy, Airforce, Public Health Service....etc. Your actions in uniform and on active duty speak for far more people that just yourself.

An Excellent Read

2006-05-30T03:53:00.000-07:00

For anyone searching for their next great book to read, I have a recommendation. It isn't new, as matter of fact I think it may be 2 or 3 years old. 90 Minutes in Heaven by Don Piper kept me captivated for 2 days (it's short, 200-205 pages).

Don was a Baptist minister in the Houston area. He suffered horrific injuries in a car accident. Don was clinically dead on the seen. Thanks to prayers and God's miracles he was saved.

This book describes his experience in Heaven in awesome detail. It also details his recovery and the ministry that ensued from it. I won't spoil too much of it...a Great read.

Following God's Instruction Manual

2006-05-22T18:53:00.000-07:00

Here is a slightly abridged version of a message God laid on my heart. My wife and participate in a Thursday night service at our church. We take turns giving the message (giving the pastor a day off). This is my first attempt...

Following the instruction manual…

Can I see a show of hands? I want to know who actually follows an instruction manual when building (or repairing) something? Do we have some responsible people who use them without fail? Now…how many of you are like me? How many of you shoot from the hip, and try to do it yourself? How many of us tend to ignore the instructions until we’ve created a mess or gotten ourselves into a bind? I wonder how many lawn mower carburetors and dry wall patching jobs would have been fixed quicker not to mention cheaper had instructions been followed initially. It is easy to forget (or ignore) the instruction manual, until it has become painfully obvious that we cannot continue without it. Often times…in the midst of huffing and puffing and throwing tools we find ourselves thumbing frantically through the instruction manual and only then see how the job was originally intended to be done. Then realizing, that if we’d read the instruction manual a little soon, we’d have saved ourselves time, and stress.
As I started this task…righting this message, I prayed. I asked God to guide my thoughts. Hey, my dad’s a preacher, I’ve seen him right sermons, I can do this. I started about 3 different times each time making it about 3 paragraphs before I deleted everything. I was frustrated. I couldn’t figure out what was wrong. Then I realized that I was missing one little tiny detail… I was attempting to prepare God’s message and didn’t even have the Bible in the same room. Hmmm…I wonder what the problem was?? So I opened up God’s instruction manual…
I wanted to start to night with the verses I read earlier. They are some of my personal favorites. They provide me comfort, inner strength. The word of God is powerful source...yet I find myself being my own worst enemy. If I have a problem…I try to fix it. If I have an issue…I worry about what to do about it. I make the problems and worries mine. Much like Jeff’s message Sunday…there are 2 footprints in the sand because I haven’t let God carry me. It’s easy to forget that God gave us the world’s greatest instruction manual until thinks aren’t going your way. Think of Ephesians 6:10-11… “Finally be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.” And Ephesians 6:13…”Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes you may be able to stand your ground…” God equips you, if you’ll only let him.
“Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxieties on to him because he cares for you.”(1 Peter 5:6-7) See…God even instructs us not to worry. I’ll admit I’m a failure at this (often). Once again God has provided us guidance and instructions. Matthew 6:25 instructs us “Therefore I tell you not to worry about your life, what you will eat, what you will drink, or about your body, what you will wear. Is life not more important than clothes?” The Lord provides for the animals and the flowers…we should know we have it made. But still worry creeps in. God even points out that all we need to do to help overcome worry and doubt is “Seek ye first the kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”
I am convinced that God is loving and gentle. When you seek his words in the Bible…no matter how long it’s been (or how long you’ve ignored it). His words are always there lovingly reminding us to seek him out. While I richly deserve it I’ve never had God smack me and say “no, no…don’t do that, read the Bible first knuckle-head”.
God leads us step by step on the pathway to inherit his kingdom. He never promises it will be easy. But his word is there for us every step of the way. “Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow is the road that leads to life and only few find it” (Matt. 7:13-14). Once again his instructions are laid before us…and in this case don’t leave much ambiguity.
For many in world, there is doubt, anger, and fear (to name a few sins). God instructs, warns us even, not to give in into these shortcomings. He tells us, “Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour” (1 Peter 5:8). The Bible then turns and provides comfort…1 Peter 5:9&10 states “Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that your brothers and sisters throughout the world are undergoing the same kind of sufferings. And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm, and steadfast”. In other words, read God’s word…it is there for you. You are not alone. He is there… you are with friends.
Based on God’s word we know we have more than just a distant, God. We have a savior. We have someone who stands beside us and teaches us. His instruction manual is not mandatory. He even forgives us when we don’t read like we should. But the Bible is always there waiting…written by a not only our Savior, but our friend. As we go throughout our lives we should walk with confidence knowing we have our instructions, we have our guidebook…not written by some random stranger, but written by a God who truly has our best interests at heart.
I will close tonight with these words from Jesus, “You are my friends, if you do what I command. I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master’s business. Instead I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my father I have made known to you”.

Another Chance To Support Our Troops!

2006-04-10T05:08:00.000-07:00

Please visit Families United for our Troops and Their Mission. Sign up to signal your support for our troops. Families United for our Troops and Their Mission is a group either funded or supported partially (not sure which) by Progress for America.

http://www.familiesunitedmission.com/docs/signup_new/individual.shtml

Values

2006-04-05T04:51:00.000-07:00

I saw this article while reading LaShawn Barber. Star Parker provides an interesting read on conservative vs. liberal values.

The Scientific Method

2006-03-23T04:09:00.000-08:00

I couldn't help but think when reading the "whiny student" article...if developing close relationships, being self-reliant, energetic, somewhat dominating, relatively under-controlled are characteristics of future liberals and feeling easily victimized, easily offended, indecisive, fearful, rigid, inhibited, and relatively over-controlled and vulnerable are characteristics of future conservatives...then is the reverse true later in life?

I read this crap under the pretext of research and have to offer my non-professional analysis:

-Feeling victimized: Dixie Chicks...who has the right to disagree with their hatred of "W"; Cindy Sheehan
-Easily Offended: Jessie Jackson...name the last time he was "offended" for something that helped his cause
-Fearful: Any liberal who actually believes that Bush/conservatives are anything remotely close to Nazi's
-Indecisive: John Kerry, John Edwards, Hillary Clinton....shall I continue...actually I think they perfer nuanced...
-Rigid: Al Gore 2000....Hillary Clinton now
-Inhibited: The rights of the GWOT prisoners in Cuba (If you listen to liberals)
-Over-Controlled: Anyone who blames losing elections on the suppresion of minority votes...darn those Republicans for getting more votes!!

Anyways, thats my rant for today. Enjoy!

Quote of the Day

2006-03-22T10:54:00.000-08:00

We were discussing something funny I said today...don't even remember what...I followed-up by saying "I'm just here for your amusement". It made me think of a cetain movie quote. See if you can figure out from where. I tried to tone down the language.

-You're a pistol, you're really funny. You're really funny.
-What do you mean I'm funny?
-It's funny, you know. It's a good story, it's funny, you're a funny guy. [laughs]
-What do you mean, you mean the way I talk? What?
-It's just, you know. You're just funny, it's... funny, the way you tell the story and everything.
-[it becomes quiet] Funny how? What's funny about it?
-Tommy no, You got it all wrong.
-Oh, oh, Anthony. He's a big boy, he knows what he said. What did ya say? Funny how?
-Jus...
-What?
-Just... ya know... you're funny.
-You mean, let me understand this cause, ya know maybe it's me, I'm a little **'d up maybe, but I'm funny how, I mean funny like I'm a clown, I amuse you? I make you laugh, I'm here to ***’n amuse you? What do you mean funny, funny how? How am I funny?
-Just... you know, how you tell the story, what?
-No, no, I don't know, you said it. How do I know? You said I'm funny. How the “***” am I funny, what the “***” is so funny about me? Tell me, tell me what's funny!
-[long pause] Get the “***” out of here, Tommy!
-[everyone laughs] Ya “*** ***”er! I almost had him, I almost had him. Ya stuttering prick ya. Frankie, was he shaking? I wonder about you sometimes, Henry. You may fold under questioning.

One Man's Faith and The Religion of Peace

2006-03-22T04:03:00.000-08:00

The blogs have been abuzz about Abdul Rahman. Rahman is an muslim born Afghan who at some point, apparently several years ago converted to Christianity. According the various outlets I have read it seems Rahman was "caught" owning a Bible and turned in by his own relatives. He now faces trial and the potential of the death penalty in Afghanastan. The prosecutor apparently offered to drop the charges if he denounced his Christian faith and re-converted to Islam. Raham, showing Job-like amounts of faith, refused.

Wow! That is incredible. My prayers go out to Addul Rahman. Living in the U.S. we may not agree with all religions...but we know that we will not be prosecuted or even executed for worshipping.

This event seems to point out a marked difference between the religions of Christianity and Islam. It response to cartoons...the militant wing of Islam took the forefront and staged violent protests and riots. The lives of those who created the cartoons were threatened. All that for a cartoon...a spoof.

Now take the flip side. Abdul Rahman is about to be placed on trial and possibly face the death penalty for being a Christian. How many U.S. Mosque's have burned due to this? To my knowledge none. Are people of the streets of the "Bible Belt" rioting and flipping cars over because of this? Have our Christian religious leaders fanned the fire by spewing hate speech against Islam in the face of this? Have we burned the Afghan flag in protest to this? No, no, and no again! But you can bet for sure that nearly every Christian who has heard of this is angry. You can bet the have said a prayer for Rahman.

Let us continue to pray for Mr. Rahman. Let us continue to take the high rode. Christians can let their voices be heard with out deadly riots and hate speech. Islam is on a slipperly slope of letting the terrorist define it and own it. Let's be certain not to let Christianity go down the same path.

2006-03-17T16:57:00.000-08:00

Well, I am sitting, enjoying a relaxing St. Patty's day. Or at least I suppose I am enjoying it...since my Razorbacks lost to Bucknell. I am listening to the latest George Straight CD.

I hardly claim to be an "in-the-know" music critic, but his latest CD is good. Track number 2 (Somewhere Down in Texas) is a song that will bring a tear to the eye of any Texan (or Texan in temporary exile...). The Seashores of Old Mexico is tongue and cheek story of someone headed south of the border to avoid jail.

Well off to finish off the day...to quote George:

But I'll turn out the lights tonight...
I'll say goodnight but not good bye...
I'll be somewhere down in Texas...
If your looking for me...

Even if it's only in my dreams for now...

Hey Hey NCAA

2006-03-17T04:43:00.000-08:00

It's Friday!!! The Razorbacks play Bucknell in the NCAA tourney today. So far so good for the SEC...'Bama and the Vol's have both won. May the Hogs continue the trend!

Ooooooooo Pig Sooooouuuuuuuuiiiiiiiii RAZORBACKS!!!!

Over The Weekend...

2006-03-13T03:51:00.000-08:00

This was a busy weekend. It was Chris Warren handy-man weekend. I am not a handy-man. Let me repeat...I am not a handy-man.

A couple of weeks ago we had a pipe burst in our basement. (I paid plummers to fix that). This weekend I completed the painting on the drywall patch work I did the weekend before. Painting I can do...no big deal.

My next task was to put up new shelving in the closet of my wife's office (she works from home). I've got all the cool toys...my laser level, my electronic stud finder, my power drill, etc. (Now if I just had to knowledge, skill, and ability to compliment the toys...).

During our first (note first..but not the day of the project) trip to Home Depot...I bought dry wall anchors. A pack of 5 if them. Why five? Who knows? I was convinced that I had plenty of them in my tool box. I never have enough of any screw, nail, or anchor in my tool box... Why on earth would this project be any different? A second trip to Home Depot remedied this problem.

I hung the top bracket. I hung the tracks. Shelves? Three shelves should be perfect. Not quite. Oops need one more shelf. I suggested dropping by Home Depot on the way home from church the following day. My wife decided to go rent a video and drop by Wal-Mart...made her second trip of the day to Home Depot. The shelf was hung...problem solved.

The sink in the master bathroom was draining slow. (Oh joy!). I know plumming about as well as I know how to speak Arabic. Then I remembered that my Grandparents have given me a do-it-yourself-handyman book for Christmas....Why not check that out!

My wife walks into the bathroom. I have pulled the stopper out of the drain, blocked the overflow with a washcloth, and have the plunger in the sink...going to town. After about six cycles of 10 or 15 plunges...It worked! Reading instructions helped...go figure....weird.

So yes, that was the Chris Warren handy-man weekend. I know...there will be those that laugh because, you can do these things in your sleep...good for you. I don't care! Mainly because....

Mainly because....The University of Arkansas Razorback basketball team made the NCAA tourney! 8th seed. They play Bucknell at American Airlines Center in Dallas this coming Friday. (Wish I could be there).

Wednesday's Update

2006-03-08T03:37:00.000-08:00

I crawled out of bed at 4:40 am. Off to the corporate gym. Off to start of the day with a bang. Off to torture myself into shape. However, for those who think I'm whining, I do this routine twice a week, supplemented with 30-45 minute jogs on the non gym-going days.

We had a visit from the minister last night. He's a very friendly man...very easy to talk to. It's odd...I'm a preacher's son. I haven't lived at home in basically 14 years, but had never been on the receiving end of a pastoral visit. Of course my twisted mind kept thinking back to a comic I saw recently, Jim Gaffigan. In Gaffigan's routine he states (not exact quote) "I want to make everyone comfortable...that's why I'm going to talk to you about Jesus..." Then he goes into a hilarious rant on people confronting you to discuss religion/Jesus at odd and very strange times. It's one of those comic routines you sort of feel guilty about finding funny. And, no the minister who visited my house did not act that way. We basically shot the breeze and discussed potential dates for becoming members.

During conversation with the pastor last night the conversation drifted toward lawyers (how, I have no idea). We were laughing at the used car salesman approach of so many of the personal injury lawyers. My wife reminded me of Jim Adler, an attorney in Texas. By all accounts he is a very successful attorney. My wife and I always enjoyed his commercials...he used to introduce himself as Jim Adler, the "Texas Hammer", in voice generally reserved for pro-wrestling. He's toned down the last few years to the "tough smart lawyer". I always wondered during his days as "the Texas Hammer" if he did the atomic drop on his opens after a victory in court.

Why, yes... I am going to digress from a pastor visit, to a comic, to lawyer, to Jimmy Buffet.

I called my wife this morning asking her to look int to getting Jimmy Buffet tickets. I'm a huge fan...but have never been to a concert. He is apparently going to be in Connecticut in June. If I were him, my opening remarks to an audience in New England would be..."HAHAHA...I live in Key West and you don't!! Oh and by the way...One Particular Harbor was NOT written about Long Island Sound!".

Oh one more thing...the Buffet concert is at a casino. So I single handedly discussed pastors, comics, lawyers, singers, and gambling all in the same post! That'll be all for me.

Books I've Read Lately

2006-03-07T04:08:00.000-08:00

I thought I would share some of the books I have read lately. Some have been very entertaining, some educational, some a little slow...but all in all some enjoyable books:

Where God Was Born by Bruce Feiler. Feiler takes us on his journey as he tries to come closer to his Jewish faith, while seeking a greater understanding of the interconnections of Islam, Christianity, Judaism, along with a few others religions in the Middle East. Well written, good subject matter...it took me forever to finish (it seemed)...I had trouble "getting into" this book.

Ron McLarty's The Memory of Running takes you along with the fictional main character after the tragic loss of both parents in an accident followed by the loss of a mentally ill sister. The character faces his inner demons and shortcomings and begins to find self-esteem, along with his former self. My blurb does not do this justice...I would highly recommend this book.

Hawke by Ted Bell. I liked this book. Totally fictional. Totally unbelievable. A good fiction, special forces, shoot'em up adventure. One in a series of novels. Gee...I wonder if reading this just prior to reading Where God Was Born...could have been part of my problem...hmmmmmmm..........I have another of his books, Assassin, sitting on the shelf awaiting it's turn.

Unhinged: Exposing Liberals Gone Wild by Michelle Malkin. Great book! Not a relaxing read. If your like me you'll either be rolling on the floor laughing or ready to fight. I felt like I needed to go on blood pressure medication after reading it.

Ireland by Frank Delaney. This book tells bits and pieces of the history and folklore of Ireland through the words of fabled Irish story teller. The events of the book revolve around a child and his quest to find the story teller and to become one. This one was a bit long....but an excellent read.

I am currently reading Imperial Grunts by Robert D. Kaplan. I have heard lots of good things about this book. I am currently in or around page 30. So far so good!

Back In the Saddle??

2006-03-07T04:03:00.000-08:00

It's been a while. Lots of work. Lots of "putting it off". When I look and note that my last post was discussing Sam Alito's nomination...it's been too long.

It's been cold. Yes...I know...what a shocker for Connecticut. Maybe I'll use that as my excuse for not posting....?

Anyway...it will now be my goal to post more often. I might even have something worth reading.

Alito Nominated for SCOTUS

2005-10-31T04:14:00.000-08:00

Update:
For more on Alito see Michelle Malkin.

According to Fox News this morning President Bush has chosen Samuel Alito as his new nominee for the SCOTUS. More later.

It's Friday

2005-10-28T04:32:00.000-07:00

TGIF...

I like Fridays. They can be busy/hectic as I try to complete tasks to finish out the work week. They are also a bit relieving...knowing that I have a couple of days rest coming.

I'm plannig to take a quick day trip to Vermont tomorrow with my wife. Neither of us have ever been there. We thought it would be fun...pretty scenery. (Hopefully the weather won't shoot down our plans).

My Razorbacks have the week off. They are gearing up for their Homecoming game agains South Carolina on Nov. 5th. They Hogs are 2-4...hopefully they can pull off a "W" against the Gamecocks.

Also (late) congrats this week to the Whitesox for a sweep agains the Astros in the World Series. I'm not a fan of either team...but winning the World Series is a incredible accomplishment.

So I Was Wrong

2005-10-27T09:12:00.000-07:00

After deciding to jump in the fray and offer my opinion of Miers...I was wrong (I guess). Miers withdrew her nomination today at the "reluctance" of the administration. So I am eating crow...wiping egg off my face...yadda, yadda, yadda...

Good luck to Miers. Lets hope whoever the next nominee is...will turn out to be a strong conservative to will help to cease all the in-fighting and squabbling of prominent conservatives.

Off The Deep End...

2005-10-27T04:44:00.000-07:00

I found a link to this on LaShawn Barber's site. Mark Morford cuts to the chase. He is a Bush-hating, Christian-bashing, conservative hating, anti-family liberal.

He bashes a family (Duggar family) in Arkansas for having 16 children. Jim Bob Duggar sells real estate and their family lives in a 7,000 square foot home (not exactly abject poverty). He bashes the Duggars for being Christian...is Morford (or liberals in general) so intolerant that they cannot let a large family choose their religion and worship it without being ridiculed?

Where is the balance in the article? If you want to take on a family for having 16 children...why not balance that by taking on those that do not take on their parental duties and opt for abortions?

Liberal tout their tolerance. This article proves once again that it's a lie.

It's long way from Roger, AR to San Francisco...I'm sure the Duggars are glad.

Tell Mark what you think of his article: mmorford@sfgate.com

When Cancer Has A Face

2005-10-26T12:26:00.000-07:00

I work in clinical research...specifically oncology. My role is that of a site manager...acting as a liaison between the pharma company and the clinics (sites). I spearhead the effort to get clinical trial data from these sites and help with the clinical review. I don't see patients. I use research speak and look for data errors and trends. I fuss over deadlines. While I love what I do..and place an emphasis on doing it well...oncology often means paycheck. For me oncology rarely has a face.

For many though cancer (not oncology) has a very real face. Occasionally (but not often enough) those of us that work on the data end, behind the scences are reminded of this. Often the reminder comes in the form of a friend or relative with cancer.

I had a reality check the other day. It came in the form of a song...Skin (I believe is the name) by Rascal Flatts. It is a song about a young (teenage) girl who is diagnosed with cancer. The song is takes you on the emotional ride of this young girl leading up to her prom. I will not attempt to explain further. I'll print the lyrics below. It helped me remember that out there (all to often)...oncology becomes cancer and it has a very real face to many.

Sara Beth is scared to death To hear what the doctor will sayShe hasn't been well, since the day that she fellAnd the bruise just won't go away

So she sits and she waits with her mother and dadAnd flips through an old magazineTill the nurse with the smile stands in the doorAnd says will you please come with me

Sara Beth is scared to death Cause the doctor just told her the newsBetween the red cells and white, something's not rightBut we're gonna take care of you

Six chances in ten, it won't come back again With the therapy we're gonna tryIt's just been approved, it's the strongest there isAnd I think that we caught it in time And Sara Beth closes her eyes.

And she dreams she's dancing Around and around without any caresAnd her very first love is holding her closeAnd a soft wind is blowing her hair

Sara Beth is scared to deathAs she sits holding her momCause it would be a mistake for someone to takeA bald headed girl to the prom

For just this morning, right here on her pillowWas the cruelest of any surpriseAnd she cried when she gathered it all in her handsThe proof that she couldn't denyAnd Sara Beth closes her eyes

And she dreams she's dancingAround and around without any caresAnd her very first love is holding her closeAnd a soft wind is blowing her hair

It's quarter to seven, that boy's at the doorAnd her daddy ushers him inAnd when he takes off his capThey all start to cry Cause this morning where his hair had all been Softly she touches just skin

And they go dancing, around and aroundWithout any caresAnd her very first true love is holding her closeAnd for a moment she isn't scared

Take Responsibility For Yourself

2005-10-25T04:08:00.000-07:00

I consider myself very blessed. I have a pretty good life. I have a beautiful wife, a home, 2 vehicles (that run), and a good job. I like what I do for a living. I think (by God's grace) I am living the American dream.

Where I am now...while a long way from "the top"...came from hard work and planning. It took lots of goal setting and goal achieving. It took education. It took risks and leaving my comfort zone. It took effort...it was not easy...nor will it get easier.

Did I have help along the way? Absolutely. My parents instilled in me good study habits. My wife was moral support during school (and I was her's). The GI Bill covered my tuition...and based on the montly allowance actually covered my wife's. My Grandparents gave money they had set aside for each grandchild.

Did I make mistakes or have set backs along the way? Sure... Poor performance in classes here and there. Jobs that I interviewed for that I did not get, etc. I got over the let downs and moved forward.

I did not set around and wait for the "good". While I received help (or assistance)...I worked my tail off and set into motion the events that led me to where I am today. I didn't ask society...what are you going to do for me? I asked Chris Warren...how are you going to help yourself? You want more. You want better. What are you going to do about it?

The point to my little "bio" is my disdain for those have not, because the try not....and because they have not they complain much and blame others. There is no shame in "having not" if it is your choice...or you are actively working to better your situation. Take responsibility.

It is not a crime, racist, or unchristian to ask people to work toward their potential. We are not all going to be CFO's or rocket scientist (I failed accounting so I'm not banking on a CFO position)...but we can all work to better ourselves.

It should be a pro-active, personal-ownership effort. Take the self-initiative. The are programs, money and assistance out there to help you (i.e., the military...GI Bill). Use them to help prepare you in advance with education and/or career training.

I hope that with my planning and work that if disaster (natural or my own error) comes my way...I can rise on my own two feet. I hope that should I ever need assistance (government, etc.)...that it isn't much, I can pay it back...and that they have to catch up with me...because I don't intend to set around and wait on it and complain about how long it takes.

Friday's Rant

2005-10-21T12:43:00.000-07:00

How does one get labeled an "elite". Is it a job/position? Is it a degree? Is it a degree from a particular institution? Is it some proof on intellect?

The word has gotten thrown around a lot lately. I suspect those who are KOL's (key opinion leaders) set the tone for this. They seem to come from politics, the media, blogs, authors, professors, etc.

Are these "KOL's" smart and well versed...you bet. Does that make their opinions the be all end all...of course not. Does being a KOL make you elite, no.

I suspect that many (such as myself) are offended by the elitist terminology. One does not need an Ivy League degree to function successfully in our society or to be a leader in his or her field. Education (no matter where) along with intestinal fortitude can get you a long way in life.

Key opinion leader seems a better discription than elite. It does not imply a "smarter" or better-than-you" attitude. It tends to imply that someone is in the know and influencial...Someone could achieve this status with a B.S. degree from Arkansas State or Harvard. (By the way I have a B.S. from Arkansas St., so I'm neither knocking ASU or claiming to be a KOL). Just merely ranting.

Robert's Ridge by Malcolm MacPherson

2005-10-21T04:23:00.000-07:00

I am reading an excellent book...Robert's Ridge by Malcolm MacPherson. Many of you may remember Operation Anaconda in Afghanistan. This is a true story related to that operation. We can all recall the accounts of Neil Roberts the Navy SEAL falling out of the helocoptor, and surviving...only to be killed by Al Qaida/Taliban fighters.

This book (which I have not finished) follows the SEAL team and Ranger teams trying to bring Roberts back and the perils that they face and go through in the Takur Ghar Mountain, Afghanistan region. I cannot read it fast enough.

Thursday's Word

2005-10-20T04:27:00.000-07:00

"Thursday's Word"...so much for flashy titles, or brilliantly intellectual, thought provoking posts. Oh wait...I never have those!

Fall has arrived. The leaves are changing. It was about 45 degrees this morning. This temperature would be late Fall/Early winter in the south...in New England it's mid October. I spoke with my Dad yesterday...Arkansas, hit 90 degrees.

I'm still trying to plan the Vermont trip for my wife and I. It's beginning to look like it could be a day trip, just to get it in.

This Friday...we have the Southington, CT New Comers Club Scavenger Hunt. I barely no my way around...that should be a giggle.

As you can see I'm stretching for things to write about. So I'll go now.

Coming Down Off The Fence...

2005-10-17T11:33:00.000-07:00

I suppose one can only straddle the fence for so long. I've tried to stay out of it, but my mind is made up. Come hell or high water, I hereby decide to support Harriet Miers in her nomination to the SCOTUS.

No my support doesn't exactly carry the weight of Hugh Hewitt, James Dobson, or any other number of conservative "big names". I am however an educated, issue-aware, conservative so my vote and my opinion makes about as much difference as anyone elses. The Senate has the job of confirming her. Not Dobson, not Hugh, especially not me. So if my support lands me flat on my face, and wrong...oh well. I'll live.

I've never been shy about the fact I support Bush and Cheney. Politically speaking there are probably few combinations out there at the moment whose overall views resonate as closely to mine as theirs do. So, do I trust Bush...give him the benefit of the doubt? Yes. I will do that. I have not personally felt "let down" by the majority of Bush's decisions and actions. She has worked with his administration for 5 years now...plus time spent with him in Texas. So I sit her comfortable in lending my support for Miers.

I am not an attorney. I have little ground to stand, from which I should judge the fitness of one to serve on the SCOTUS. However, from a strictly layman's perspective her qualifications are good.

Miers received her bachelor's degree in Mathematics and J.D. from Southern Methodist University. In March 1996, her colleagues elected her the first female President of Locke, Purnell, Rain & Harrell. She was the co-managing partner at Locke Liddell & Sapp LLC...not a shabby accomplishment, period. Harriet Miers served as President of both the Dallas Bar Association and State Bar of Texas...not exactly SCOTUS-worthy...but an accomplishment none-the-less. Miers as a trial litigator, represented large clients such as Microsoft, Walt Disney Co. and SunGard Data Systems Inc. The National Law Journal named her one of the Nation’s 100 most powerful attorneys, and as one of the Nation’s top 50 women lawyers. In 1989, she was elected to a two-year term as an at-large candidate on the Dallas City Council. From 1995 until 2000, Miers served as Chairwoman of the Texas Lottery Commission. She is now the White House Counsel, and Bush's personal counsel. (whitehouse.gov)

These are not petty accomplishments. These are the accomplishments of someone motivated and successful. The argument that her JD is only from SMU does not cut it. My Father is a minister who went to seminary at SMU. Should pastors of "mega-churches" be limited to those with an Ivy League degree?

Her religious affiliations have been scrutinized. She appears to be a strong Christian. I tip my hat to her.

Could I be wrong in my assessment? Sure. Will she over turn Roe vs. Wade...probably not. Will she be a strong conservative justice...probably. Will her testimony before the Senate prove more to us than what we know...yes.

I am going to give the nod to Bush on this one and pray. I support Harriet Miers, and think Bush will leave us in good hands.

Monday's Word

2005-10-17T04:22:00.000-07:00

Monday morning. The rain finally stopped Saturday (after I went for my morning job, naturally). Oh well. Now I'm waiting for the lawn to dry out so I can mow. (Fun, Fun!).

I spent a good deal of yesterday (after Church) on the couch...watching football. I am a rabid Dallas Cowboys fan, so I enjoyed watching them destroy the NY Giants. (...& for those who watched the game...you know that means a field goal to break the tie in OT...but hey...let me gloat a little...). This game was helpful...I am an Arkansas Razorback fan...and they are 2-4, and suffered a 34-17 blasting by Auburn this weekend.

I have to make time and plan a travel route today. I'm headed to New Brunswick, NJ tomorrow for a 1 day business trip. Living in Connecticut means that I get to drive vs. fly (only 5 hrs round trip). It won't be to bad...but it makes for a long day (especially when you really don't know your way round).

It was reassuring once again to watch the Iraqi people vote. According to what I've heard from various sources it appears there must be a failure to pass it 3 (or more) providences for it to be voted down. As it stands (as per what I have read) 2 providences have voted against it...but it does not appears any more will turn. So we'll keep our fingers crossed and say a prayer for the Iraqi people.

Well, off to tackle the day. Take care.

Donate Blood

2005-10-14T10:44:00.000-07:00

I decided on a whim to donate blood today. The Amerian Red Cross was really pressing it. It had been a while since my last donation. I forgot how impatient I was, and how I hate laying there... Oh well...The lady did a good job. One stick one hit. No pain.

It is easy to let volunteering for something as easy as donating blood fall through the cracks. Everyone (eligible) should do it. Even if its not Red Cross, but a local blood services company (i.e. Carter Blood Care in Texas)...Do it. Your help is needed.

Rain, Coffee, and Harriet Miers

2005-10-14T04:02:00.000-07:00

It's a rainy morning in CT. Actually it has been raining basically all week long. It's just a little chilly (or at least it is for someone not far removed from Texas). Thankfully it is Friday.

The morning's first order of duty is coffee. Must have it...plain and simple. No sugar. No creamer. Just a cup or 2, or 3, or so... coursing through my veins. Caffeine = Chris not cranky.

The jury is still out (in my mind) on Harriet Miers. Opinions good, bad, and ugly a spewing from all directions. I have ready many well constructed arguments from both sides of the fence. (I've also read several that are based sheerly on emotion with little value to sway or convice anyone).

I'll paste a partial quote from Hugh Hewitt here outlining some of the mainline conservatives and where they sit.
On Miers' side to date:

Ken Starr, Lino Gralia, Thomas Sowell, James Dobson, Jay Sekulow, Marvin Olasky, Chuck Colson, Michael Medved, William Rusher, R. Emmett Tyrrell and of course Fred Barnes. Against
her: The Corner, Tucker Carlson, Bill Kristol, Robert Bork, Mark Levin, George Will, Ann Coulter, Laura Ingraham, Michael Savage, and Charles Krauthhammer. (Hat-Tip Hugh Hewitt)

Stay tuned to the "drama".

Blessed Indeed

2005-10-13T11:45:00.000-07:00

I think I'll start today's post by paraphrasing the Prayer of Jabez. "Oh that you would bless me indeed and enlarge my territories and keep me from evil, so that I may not cause pain". Yes I'm sure there are some errors in my paraphrasing...but it will drive home my point.

I started trying to pray this daily maybe 3 years or so ago. I won't lie and tell you it wasn't for selfish reason...not entirely selfish...but they factored in. Bless me...Enlarge my territory...No evil...No pain...hey that sounds great!

To use a tired old cliche...be careful what you ask for. It works...God will provide you the opportunities. They won't necessarily come in the way you expect (or want at the time)...but come they will. The part "oddly missing" from the Prayer of Jabez is the "...with as little effort on my part as possible!" tag line to end the prayer.

As I alluded to earlier God provides you the opportunities if you ask. I will illustrate some personal examples.

In Sept. 2002, I agreed to go on the Walk to Emmaus. I was skeptical at best...but was assured by all involved that it would be a life changing blessing. I guess I was expecting "spiritual magic" opening the flood gates and making me a better Christian on the spot. I did receive innumerable blessings from Emmaus...but it came in the form of an accountability group I joined afterward. They encouraged me to read the Bible daily. They encouraged me to read a daily devotional. (They also enjoyed teasing you mercilessly if you didn't...). Through these men I was blessed and my territory was soon to be enlarged.

I always hated volunteering to work at the food pantry (CCA, Christian Community Action). No good reason, just cut into my "doing whatever I wanted to" time. My accountability group scheduled a monthly time man the food pantry...I was overjoyed. I went anyway. A strange thing happened...I didn't hate it quite as bad as I previously remembered. I even participated in it for another nearly 2 years (until I moved from Texas).

During this time period, I was involved with another struggle. A struggle many face daily...that of being overweight. I had gone from a 140 lbs 18 year old...to a 225 lbs 28 year old. One my friends from my accountability group (along with his wife) were teaching a healthy lifestyle class called First Place. (A Bible study with healthy eating and exercise education).

I prayerfully, painfully, and often crankily followed the program's commitments and lost 60 lbs over a 1~1.5 year period. (And have since kept it off). I thought I had really been blessed...and I had. God decided it was time to enlarge my territory again. I got recruited to teach First Place. It was a little intimidating to me to teach a Bible study. How was I going to tell people who were older (and more mature Christians, than I) about the Bible. How was I going to teach them anything!!

They say I did. I'm not sure. They taught me alot. (Far more than I could have possibly taught anyone). While God was "enlarging my territory"...He snuck in a blessing. His blessing came in the form of those "older", more mature Christians who added so much to the class.

I recently moved from Texas to Connecticut. (For a job). God has something in store. I'm not sure it's been revealed to me just yet. Experience tells me his blessings/opportunities come in forms that you don't always expect. We loved Texas so the move has been hard...and you can see from my last post that all is not "happy thoughts"...but God's blessings will prevail. Of that I have no doubt.

I have been blessed indeed.

Biblical Literalist and Faith Based Christian

2005-10-12T12:03:00.000-07:00

I guess I'm going to have to take the time and become "schooled" on liberal theology to be able to follow along (and not throw a tantrum) at Sunday School. I have alway considered myself a Biblical literalist. (i.e. If the Bible says it I believe it verbatim). I have found it particularly galling to suffer those who don't.

There are those who take a very "scientific method" approach to Biblical learning and Christianity. If it can't be proved scientifically...it didn't happen...."a good story for children", etc.

My philosophy is that of Biblical literalist, as well as, that of faith-based Christianity. In other words...there are things we can not prove, things that don't make sense, and things God will reveal to us when he is ready.

My Sunday School class is studying several different Biblical figures...dissecting them and many are approaching it with a biased against the "faith-only" or literal approach. Some of the controversial topics are as follows:

Jesus was not born via Immaculate Conception. Virgin could mean young woman. (Although the Bible says Mary had not been with a man).
Jesus did not turn the water into wine. (Not much of an argument was made for this).

What strikes me as odd is how someone can believe that Jesus was crucified, died and was raised from the dead, but then turn around and question his birth. If you believe Jesus was raised from the dead...how difficult a concept is Virgin birth. Neither are easy explanations. Not everything has to be scientifically sound.

As you can see, I am struggling to be civil. I am struggling with the theology of my denomination. The questions in my mind are...Do I leave my church for one with a more conservative theological base? Do I stick with my church out of loyalty and try to be the conservative voice of dissent? Hard questions...nothing but my faith in God to provide the answers.

Daniel Pipes Has It Right

2005-10-04T09:02:00.001-07:00

Laughing out loud over the title: "Stupid Terrorists Club"... Daniel Pipes calls it right on this one.

The frightening part is that there are people out there (even after the security revamps following 9/11) who are apparently still trying to breach airline security.

Daniel Pipes Has It Right

2005-10-04T09:02:00.000-07:00

Early Tuesday Morning...

2005-10-04T04:23:00.000-07:00

Today in the news Fox reports that the body search in New Orleans is complete. 964 people lost their lives. A tragic loss of life. Fortunately a far cry from what was originally reported to be in the tens of thousands by the media.

Word around the web today continues with mixed reactions still to the Harriet Miers nomination by Bush. I'll continue to withhold judgment until more information is available.

President Bush has chosen White House Counsel Harriet Miers

2005-10-03T08:15:00.000-07:00

President Bush has chosen White House Counsel Harriet Miers. I will not make a judgment on her qualifications. There are plenty of more qualified individual's from which to seek that information. So far..."word on the street" mainly consists of negative or disappointed reactions. Hmmm...I'll be watching this unfold with great interest.

Monday's Word

2005-10-03T04:04:00.000-07:00

It will be a busy Monday. I certainly have plenty of work to do. Aside from my life things are hopping in the political realm...as always. I was reading Fox News this morning. It looks like President Bush will be naming his nominee to take Sandra Day O'Connor's position on the U.S. Supreme Court. I, for one, will not even pretend to guess who he will nominate. If he nominates someone with the character and background similar to John Roberts...I could not think of a better plan. I was impressed with Roberts. I do believe he is conservative...but not a judicial activist. He certainly did not come off as a partisan hack.

My heart goes out to the 21 (at last I heard) that were killed on Lake George in NY. I was watching Fox News this morning while working out....Apparently a group of mainly senior citizens were aboard when the overturned.

2008 is a ways off...but already the potential Presidential candidates are lining up. If you read Patrick Ruffini, here, you'll his straw poll. Those that I have personally read about (hardly all encompassing) are Rudy Giuliani, John McCain, Bill Frist, and Mitt Romney...I'm sure I'm forgetting someone. My two personal "dream" candidates would be either Dick Cheney or Condi Rice.

Well, the day is calling. Much work to be done and "fun" to be had. Have a great Monday.

Vacation Day (at the DMV)???

2005-09-28T13:30:00.000-07:00

I took a vacation day from work today...and went to the the Connecticut DMV. Of course last night I realized I also had to get an emissions test done on my vehicle...so I was sitting in the shop at 8am this morning.

DMV...Department of Motor Vehicles...our lovely 3rd world way of being hearded like cattle for drivers licenses and vehicle registration. All this (in CT) for the bargain price of $242 (not counting the emissions test...another $20). It only took a little over 3 hours...most of which merely required waiting in terror that they had lost my information and that I would have to return to the end of the line.

Very little compares to the "hurry up and wait" strategy employed by the CT DMV. The efficiency is staggering...3+ hours and $242 was accomplished in at least 6 separate lines, 3 of the requiring me to write a check to pay. Why write one check for $242, when you can pay the initial $40 application fee, 2 hours later pay the $77 license fee, and then at the end of the ordeal pay the $125 registration fee.

Did I mention that I was taking a vacation day today...? (Insert Scream or Favorite Four letter Word here).

Well, now at least one mandatory evil is completed. I can at least thank my wife for having neatly gathered and placed in order all my required forms to survive the CT DMV. Now off to enjoy the rest of my "vacation" day.

Monday...Yawn, Stretch...

2005-09-26T04:03:00.000-07:00

Groan...5am...ugh...killing me...get up, get dressed...pack lunch. Go to the gym...inflict bodily punishment...Groan...

...Ah...Coffee...nectar of the gods...life is good!

Getting Used To It:
Connecticut...What a warm, friendly, and open state...?? Question: Does anyone truly love Connecticut? Or...better question. Did anyone actually like CT when they first moved there? I have not found that person.

Coming from Texas my wife and I were in for a bit of a shock. When we moved to Texas...everyone was open, friendly, and welcoming..."Glad to have you", "Welcome", "You'll love it here! This is Texas!" (Although the Hook'em Horns and Gig'em Ags did get old).

5 years later...in Connecticut. "Sooo...why did you move to CT?" New Job..."Oohh...So...Do you like it??"...Trying to..."Yeah...it took me a while too...don't worry you'll get used to it."

Where is the New England charm...? The Lonestar State vs. The Nutmeg State...?????

Damn Yankees....oh well. Love my job. It is prettier than Dallas. They do have good sports. Can't argue that the Pats aren't good. The Red Sox aren't to shabby either. The traffic is certainly lighter than Dallas...although CT drivers have high speed death wish, I'm convinced.

Guess I'll get used to it.

The Sunday Late Addition

2005-09-25T15:23:00.000-07:00

Our God is a God of good humor. This morning in Sunday School...we watched brief clips of Jesus Christ Superstar. Now I'll be walking around with "I Don't Know How to Love Him" stuck in my head for a week....gotta love Andrew Loyd Webber. (And know we were not presenting the musical as Biblical fact). In fact we were using it to point out that many people have wrongly formed opinions of Mary Magdalene based on misinformation (musicals, etc.).

I finally pulled the trigger on the snowblower...$480 poorer I am now armed and dangerous...but ready to take on the snow. (Being raised in Arkansas, the whole snow and major winter storm thing intrigues me).

I completed One Soldier's Story (Bob Dole). I would highly recommend it. It is a very uplifting read. I've now pulled out my copy of Boy Genius...a biography of Karl Rove. I've read it once before...but I think it is worth re-reading.

Well, back to "heady" Sunday evening activities. I'm trying to truck through an article in the Weekly Standard, while watching the Steelers and Pats play. Guess which one is more interesting... (Hint: NFL)...

Sunday's Ramblings

2005-09-25T04:38:00.000-07:00

It happened again...my Razorbacks fell short...24-13 to the 'Tide. Enough said...don't want to discuss.

I'm glad to see that TX and LA do not appear to have been hammered by Rita the way it was originally feared. I have many friends down that way... Unfortunately New Orleans appears to be flooding again.

I'll be off to church shortly...getting oriented to a new Sunday School. We are currently studying Mary Magdalene...which after a couple of classes it seems obvious I really needed to study her. There are so many Mary's in the Bible, I often get them confused. My most vivid memory of any "study" of Mary Magdalene was watching Jesus Christ Superstar..."what's the buzz, tell me what's happening...". As one of the teachers said, "There's Something About Mary".

I am in the process of finishing up Bob Dole's One Soldier Story. So far it is an excellent piece and a moving tribute to those who helped him through his WWII injuries. I hope to write more on it later.

For a humorous read, check out Hugh Hewitt's Memo to DSCC Staffers. For your daily dose of theology, read What portions of Scripture are most relevant to the people who have lost family, friends, and financial security to Katrina and now Rita, and why? What portions of Scripture are most relevant to those who have been watching, but for whom the suffering is far removed, and why? These were 2 question Hugh Hewitt posed on OneTrueGodBlog.

Take care and enjoy your Sunday.

Saturday at The Warren Compound

2005-09-24T07:28:00.000-07:00

I started Saturday off with a bang. We had to take the dogs to get shaved...otherwise our carpets turn into strange white and red objects that consume everything. Dog hair black holes?

Our groomer is in Bristol, CT. Bristol is home to the corporate headquarters of ESPN. A big building...lots of satellites. As I was trying to make the traffic light there this morning, I kept looking out of the corner of my eye at the building. I guess I was expecting Chris Berman to leap out yelling "He Could Go All The Way...!!!", as I hit the gas at the yellow light.

My beloved Razorback play Alabama today. I'm worried...they have not gotten off to a good start. Who better to turn it around on though than an unsuspecting Crimson Tide.

Well...off to go run errands, pick up dogs, and possibly purchase a snow blower...somewhere in there I may even find time to plan a trip to Vermont.

Friday's Word

2005-09-23T04:08:00.000-07:00

It's going to be a busy day...but those of us in New England don't have much to complain about. (Just a lot of people to worry about...).

We have Hurricane Rita (presently a Category 4) moving in toward the gulf coast. (Having just moved from Texas, my thoughts and prayers go out to my many friends down there). I hear the back-up just to get out of Houston is miles long. If you haven't already, it may be time to donate to one of the organizations collecting for such disasters. As the Little Texas song goes..."God Bless Texas".

I heard this morning on the news that someone was arrested at Manchester Airport in the UK for reportedly leaving a "strange" package laying around. I also heard on the radio that the person actually missed their flight, but their luggage made it onboard...and the trouble involved a thoughtless remark he/she made to the airlines employee. Something to the effect of (I'm paraphrasing, not quoting) "...but what if there had been a bomb in it...". While writing I decided to click over to Captain's Quarters. It looks more serious than what I heard.

This is Good News:
It looks like the Senate Judiciary Committee voted (13-5) in favor of giving John Roberts a full Senate confirmation vote...one that he will likely win. (Hat Tip: Power Line)

Aside from the big world and nation events it is a quite Friday here in Connecticut. Fall is slowly starting to make its way in. Although, being new to New England...the 50/60 degree weather is a nice change, I'm used to it being in the 80/90's in Dallas. Ask me in December how I feel about the weather...!!!

I'm also looking into buying a snowblower....just what I wanted to spend $500 (or so) on. I bought a snow shovel, but have since been laughed at for thinking I can take on a winter driveway with a mere shovel. Speaking of snowblowers...I saw one for $2300!!! For that price I was annoyed when I didn't find the remote controlled robot that blew off your driveway while you stayed in the comfort of your living room holding a cup of coffee. If you haven't figured out by now...I know nothing about snow blowers and I am a tightwad. (Likely a bad combination). If anyone knows anything about snowblowers...feel free to comment!

I'm gearing up for another football weekend. I am originally from Arkansas, so I am a huge Razorback fan. This year has been a little rocky so far. We started out with a quick win...then lost a heartbreaker to Vanderbilt. Then last week we had to face off against Southern Cal...painful...oh so 70-17 painful...This week the Hogs travel to Alabama to take on the Crimson Tide...not a easy task either. I'm an optimist...so Go Hogs! Kick some 'Bama Butt...

Well off to face the day and all that comes with it. (Which may or may not involve the purchase of a snow blower).

Welcome To Chris Warren's Word

2005-09-22T08:03:00.000-07:00

Welcome to Chris Warren's Word. This is my new blog. Hopefully some of you checking this out will have seen my writing over at Thunder Runner's World. This will be basically the same type of writing...just using my real name (what a concept...).

I will be focusing on current events (political, social, economic, etc.), sports, Christianity, and basically anything else that I find interesting.

Your input and questions/comments are welcome. Thanks for visiting. Come again!