Monthly Archive

Chelsea Clinton was married today. It appears to be a day of joy for the two families. Despite the immense pressures of being the only child of two powerful, prominent celebrities and experiencing the joys and the sorrows of her father's presidency, Chelsea has quietly developed her own person.  She does not appear to be the public person that parents are. She has just recently completed a masters degree from Columbia University's school of public health. She gives the appearance of someone who has matured with some grace and dignity.

The ruling by the federal judge in Arizona, striking down the harsh immigration law leaves the field open in terms of dealing with issues of immigration.  Emotionalism reigns on both sides of the aisle politically and much is not understood regarding immigration law. Ultimately people's lives are at stake. There is a balancing of those who want stringent enforcement of immigration and prosecution of illegals. The arguments range from national security, ti burdening overburdened medical, benefits and educational systems, to fear of illegals taking jobs.

I had a great trip to the UK, meeting some very interesting people and making great connections for ALARM. On my last night I stayed near the Earl's Court stop on the tube in London. The neighborhood there is beautiful--many flowers in window boxes, well-kept row homes. I had a couple of hours free and so did a speed tour of the Museum of Natural History, something I have always wanted to do. (See my Facebook page for pictures.

I will post more later. I love Oxford, such a historic place. The university is amazing. I have presented at a conference on forgiveness with 50 other scholars from 22 countries. It has been a rich time with new friends.I catch a train tonight to Worcester to spend Sunday with friends Rich and Kath Johnson whom I met in New Zealand. 3 services with them at the Anglican church at which he is now rector. Then Monday, travel to London, more meetings. Tuesday back to the U.S. I hope to squeeze in a little time at the British Museum of Natural History.

I am in the UK on Oxford and this place (UK) has no popcorn . . .or I should say they say they only have sweet popcorn. What is stinking sweet popcorn? Do they serve it with crumpets and team and fine china that you drink with your pinkie straight up inthe air? Most stores don't even have any form of popcorn. Some potatoe chips are alright--sea-salt and malt vinegar but those aren't that good for you and they have some very odd flavors of chipcc but I have found Wasabi Peas . . .low calorie, tastie, shock to the sense and 15 grams of fibre . . .

The responses of Lebron James and Cleveland owner, Dan Gilbert, in the Lebron James sweepstake demonstrate the low road. More things have come to light regarding James' behaviors in the past season, such as refusing to shake Orlando Magic players hands after the Magic shocked the Cavaliers out of the playoffs. Gilbert's critical emotional remarks regarding James, such as suggesting that James quit during the playoffs, may express Gilbert's opinion but do nothing to build respect and dignity for a franchise. 

I don't know LeBron James, never really heard him speak his heart in an interview. I've wondered in recent days who his who his advisors are. He is only 25 years old. The hour interview and hoopla on ESPN smacked too much of narcissim and me-first mentality. James ultimately is responsible and will find more hardened and cynical fans facing him in arenas around the country.

I have gone through different seasons of spiritual growth. What is needed depends very much on circumstances, season of life and other areas of emphasis in my life at a particular time.  Right now my disciplines include:

There is an excellent New York Times article on those who have developed and succeeded later in life.

http://opinionator.blogs.nytimes.com/2010/06/30/second-act-aces/?hp

The writer includes Souderton, Pennsylvania baseball player, Jamie Moyer who at age 47 just recently defeated the powerful New York Yankees.

This is good inspiration for those who wonder if their best years are behind them.