Ra'a

MACSSISTANCE

2008-05-21T11:23:00.000-07:00

Well I'm not quite ready to throw in the towel on my personal blog, but I'm not yet sure how well I'll be able to keep up with it any longer.

I have a new website, which I need all of you to visit several times a day so I can pick up advertisers. Since I'm managing it, I can't promise it will be a great website, but I will post several interesting topics dealing with health and fitness. So if you want that kind of information but don't want to hire a personal trainer, consider macssistance your online (and free!!) strength coach. Here's the website:

www.macssistance.com

I'm Done!!!

2008-05-14T10:19:00.000-07:00

Haven't heard about comps yet, but my thesis defense was a success! A project 1 1/2 years in the making is finally over. And now, since I have a master's degree I guess its off to the real world...???

Yeah, right! I'm a personal trainer. Deal with it world, I beat the system!

Grad School is Over!!!...maybe

2008-05-08T17:26:00.000-07:00

As long as I passed my comps exam and successfully defend my thesis this Monday, I will be finished with graduate school. Comps is a comprehensive test that covers everything you've learned during your time in a master's program. Most graduate schools require either a thesis or comps, not both. For some reason, UALR does require both to finish with a master's. Its supposed to be pronounced "U-Lur," not "Yale-ur." What the crap are they thinking??? I'll post again after Monday to let both of you know how it went.

Well I'm headed to yet another wedding which I am a part of this weekend. Bret, the groom, is one of my best friends from high school. A side note on Bret: on our senior trip to Cancun, he was arrested for urinating on a side walk.

I realize this is a strange way to end a post, bu--

A Return to My First Love

2008-04-23T19:16:00.001-07:00

A crazy thing happened this week...

I got a job!

The Country Club of Little Rock is allowing me to subject its patrons to pain and torture through personal training. My first client is tomorrow at 6:30 a.m. So all those days of working for free in the Arkansas Razorback weight room finally lead to a paycheck.

God is good. He always provides. And he allowed me to dodge a bullet...a few weeks ago I was ready to take another sales job. Training sweet old ladies and deep-pocketed golfers suites me much better, I think.

So for those enjoying the unemployment journal, sorry I won't be adding to that anymore. I am once again a contributor to society.

Men's Retreat With Cedar Heights Baptist Church

2008-04-10T12:19:00.000-07:00

This weekend has been anticipated for quite a while.

Mike Reading

and I are getting to teach at a men's retreat for Cedar Heights Baptist Church of North Little Rock. This is the church where

Joel

serves as worship pastor. This is cool for a couple of reasons. First, because it seems like only a short time ago Mike and I were praying for a vision of how to do ministry together. Second, Cedar Heights is in the beginning stages of building a men's ministry

Here's a brief overview of the weekend:

Friday Night: The Story of God--An overview of the world's Creator and his pursuit of a relationship with mankind

Saturday Morning: The Story of Self--A look at the life of Jacob and how God transformed him from a deceiving coward to the identity he was created for

Saturday Afternoon: The Story of Community--Why community is important for man

Sunday Morning: Overall summary of the weekend plus the importance of each member in the Church playing his or her role

Eye of the Tiger

2008-04-07T19:36:00.001-07:00

This smaller picture picture is me and my brother when we were 4 and 7, respectively.

No, no its not. But it easily could be. The similarities of these two to me and my brother are uncanny. This was a common scene at the McPherson household. We'd put on the gloves. Dad would referee. Daniel would cry. A vicious cycle that occurred almost every Sunday.

The top picture actually is my brother and I this past Christmas. Since I had the opportunity to train as a boxer for that Toughman contest last year, Douglas asked if I would take him through a session. After an hour and a half of punching each other in the face, we stopped to pose for this picture.

Boys will be boys.

Day 25 of Unemployment

2008-03-26T20:43:00.000-07:00

Yes, its been 25 days since I had a job. If you want to keep up, you need only count the days since February 29. The unemployment office is no help. They will be deciding over the next 25 days whether or not I am entitled to receive unemployment. The good news is that the time off work gives me additional hours to dedicate to grad school and my other writing endeavors.

God bless Starbucks. As you see above, they allowed me my very own pot of French-pressed Arabian Mocha Sinani (my favorite blend) for the price of one cup! The problem is that this happened at about 8 tonight, and I have to be up at 5 a.m. tomorrow. Needless to say, I'm currently wired.

I want to share what I was working on tonight, as I believe it hits on a place where all of us find ourselves:

I believe that the power of Christ is more powerful than the power of the mind. But I cannot deny my past: when I convince myself that I am about to sin and there is nothing I can do about it, I always fall to temptation. How can I recognize that Christ is bigger than my sin and still fall? Why am I unable to escape such a vicious cycle? I empathize with Paul, who had this to say about such matters:

“I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do.”
“I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my sinful nature. For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out. For what I do is not the good I want to do; no, the evil I do not want to do—this I keep on doing. Now if I do what I do not want to do, it is no longer I who do it, but it is sin living in me that does it.”

I have read these words many times over. How true they ring each time. My sin is not the real me. It is not the correct representation of my identity, as I am a new creation in Christ and not a slave to my sinful nature. It can, however, disrupt my progress. Just as sin separates lost souls from their Creator, it also interrupts the communication of sons and daughters with their Father.

But recognize that an interruption is not an eraser.

Hoping this encourages someone who finds themselves stuck in that vicious cycle. Remember friend, you are not your sin.

Easter

2008-03-23T12:34:00.000-07:00

HE IS RISEN!

DEATH COULD NOT KEEP HIM IN THE GRAVE!

HALLELUJAH!

CHRIST IS LORD!

Day 10 of Unemployment

2008-03-12T16:09:00.000-07:00

10 days down and counting...

The bright news is that I attended a career fair at my future graduate alma mater, UALR. Unfortunately, I found nothing that interested me. But I did have a phone interview that was intriguing. We'll see what happens. This is me in the lobby of the hotel where I had the phone interview. The suit was strictly to impress people at the career fair. I had a Navy recruiter stop me and say, "Hey man, nice suit." I replied with a genuine, "Yours too."

Yesterday I made chocolate covered pecans. I highly recommend. Sadly, in a short spurt of generosity, I gave them away.
Oh, how I regret that decision. I supposed I could make more. But what if I don't have time tomorrow? What if my schedule piles up, and I get swamped wi--wait. I'll be able to make them tomorrow. Never mind.

Not having a job rocks.

Day 5 of Unemployment

2008-03-11T07:33:00.000-07:00

Should have put this up sooner, as I am currently on day 10, but I have a picture I wanted everyone to see.

It snowed again on Friday. I had no soda in the house, and I had a pregnancy craving for a Coke (which is strange because I typically prefer a soft drink with a doctorate). I live about a half mile from a Kroger. Instead of risking a car wreck in the snow, I decided to walk.

It was cold. My face tells the story. Nonetheless, the coke was everything I hoped it would be.

Day 4 of Unemployment

2008-03-06T14:32:00.000-08:00

When you're not working, time becomes available to spend on your hobbies. One of mine, as some of you don't know, is cooking. This is a picture of my lunch from today. Carrots, strawberries, brown rice, and pecan-crusted salmon (sort-of my own recipe). If any of you want to know how to make it, let me know and I'll post the recipe.

I also got to spend some time talking about church stuff with Grant and Nathan. I really wish I looked forward to Easter more than I do, but there's so much work that needs to be done between now and then (I hope to have a job by then, otherwise I think my pastors will make me very busy).

It's supposed to snow again tomorrow. Considering that snow won't get me off work and that I have no friends in walking distance, a snow day will mean nothing to me. If conditions are driveable, bring it on. Otherwise, no thanks.

Either way, I plan on getting up at 7 (this is early when you have no job) and working on school. And I think I'll finish my last box of thin mints. I polished off my first box in 24 hours. Honestly, I impress myself.

Day 2 of Unemployment

2008-03-04T08:21:00.000-08:00

Oh yeah, I forgot to mention I'm unemployed. Well I am. Me and a fellow marketer were laid off on Friday (single tear). I'm keeping busy. Yesterday I finished an assignment for school that's not due until the end of the year. I filed for umemployment (which reminded how glad I am that I'm not going to hell because I got a glimpse of it at the unemployment office). I went and caught a movie. Then I had class again last night.

But today, on day 2...I ain't doin' jack. Even the jobless deserve a snow day. This was the view outside one of my decks this morning.

And no, my heat is not turned on.

I.R.Stealing my money!!!

2008-02-25T14:05:00.000-08:00

Well, let's just say I am much more poor than I was last week. Although I do not owe Uncle Sam anything until April 15th, a part of me died as I heard this tragic news.

Just another great reminder to not get too comfortable here. This world is not my home. I am just passing through...

...but I wish I could pass through on someone else's gas expense!

My Funny Valentine

2008-02-16T07:07:00.000-08:00

What? Me, not get a valentine? Please! As you can see, I did quite well for myself this past holiday. Yes, there I am, holding a valentine. My valentine. The contents made me laugh, so I call it my funny valentine. Like the song, you see.

Why does it say "To: Mr. Daniel" on the front you might ask. Well that's what I haven't told you yet. I-uh...well I didn't get a valentine from a girl per say. Wait-no, I did. I did, in fact I received it from two girls. Yeah, it was from two girls. And their brother. All of whom were under the age of 7.

Ok, the truth is it was from some awesome kids in my church. The inside had a Mr. Potato Head Pirate, so Joey, the brother, told his mom, "We have to get this one for Mr. Daniel. He needs a pirate." And I did. I did need a pirate, and now I have one, thanks to Joey, Jessica, and Christina.

Hope everyone else's V-day was as good as mine. If anyone has any good stories from their holiday, let me know.

Its a bird...Its a plane...no--its a moron!

2008-02-08T15:58:00.000-08:00

So I watched Michael Moore on Larry King Live this week. I've always heard of him as a propaganda master with too much time on his hands. But his latest movie "SICKO" was all about how screwed up our health care system is, so I was willing to give him an open ear.

That's before he made the following statement:

"We are one of the only sophisticated countries in the world to not have universal health care. And its not like we couldn't do it. It would run just like our social security system."

What an idiot! If he would have watched the very network he was appearing on, he would realize that our social security system might not exist in the next 20 years. If that's how the government will dictate the type of health coverage the American people will have, forget it!

I should be congratulated. I've successfully found the only entity that makes less sense than universal health care.

(I'll give you a hint: its the buffoon-looking-gentleman at the top of the page)

Too Busy Right Now

2008-02-05T18:58:00.000-08:00

Didn't you read the title? But I'll be back soon. I promise...

A Memoir From the Orlando Airport

2008-01-27T12:24:00.000-08:00

I finally taught myself iMovie...I think. Let me know if it works. Enjoy.

Baby, its cold...inside

2008-01-20T18:42:00.000-08:00

I love cold weather. Late fall and winter months are my favorite. I like walking outside with the sensation of needles hitting my face. Yes, this is strange, but its who I am. Because of my love of cold weather, I only turn the heat on in my home when guests ask me to do so. This past tuesday, for instance, was only the 3rd time the heat has been on.

With recent drops in temperature (it was 19 degrees this morning), I've had to adjust and adopt a new policy. My heat is now blasting...at a scorching 65 degrees. So for those of you who kept telling me that eventually I would give in and crank up my thermostat, you win. My pride is ruined. But my toes are warm.

All Good Things Must Come to an End...

2008-01-14T19:26:00.000-08:00

I miss Orlando.

I want to go back. I had too much fun.

Since all of you couldn't go with me, here are a few pictures of my vacation.

Pic 1: Darren McFadden has received the Doak Walker award twice in this building.

Pic 2: The king of the jungle! I've never been this close to a lion not in a cage.

Pic 3: Fireworks show at Epcot on Wednesday night.

Pic 4: There's me at a piano bar. But not to worry. Nothing stronger than Red Bull touched my lips.

Pic 5: And the Red Bull inspired me to get up on stage to dance. This photo is blurry, but I'm the one in the brown shirt. If that doesn't help, I'm the only one with testosterone on stage.

Pic 6: There's me and my friend, Ben, who works at Disney. This was taken at the Comedy Warehouse, an improv show where Wayne Brady actually got his start.

We managed to hit all 4 major parks on Wednesday, then spent all day at a Disney water park on Thursday. Quite strange to be going down a water slide in January.

I once read that no one needs a vacation more than the one who just got back from a vacation. This is true, in my opinion. All in all, it was a great trip that, unfortunately, had to conclude. But seriously, I wish I was still there.

Orlando Bound!

2008-01-07T20:29:00.000-08:00

As I write this, I am frantically packing for a 4 day excursion to Orlando, Florida. From Jan. 8-11 I'm going to be a big kid, spending everyday at Disney World. Its been about 14 years since I've been, so I'm not entirely sure what I should do while I'm there.

For those of you who have been recently, what rides, sights, and restaurants should I visit?

Merry Christmas from the McPherson Clan

2007-12-25T19:50:00.000-08:00

Hope everyone had a great Christmas!

A much needed fill of...

Its A Wonderful Life

Christmas Vacation

Cheese

Cheese and Macaroni

Chocolate

Sweet Potato Casserole

Pumpkin Pie

Family

Carols

Cold

Fireplaces

Wreaths

Mistletoe (though it did me no good...wah-wah)

But most importantly...

Jesus Christ, God's Son, Sovereign ><>

"Do they know it's Christmas?"

2007-12-09T20:03:00.000-08:00

Many of you who are older than I probably remember a Christmas song by the above name. The band who sang it called themselves "Band Aid," as their purpose was to raise money for famine relief in Ethiopia.

Because I'm a Christmas junkie, I've had my car radio tuned to 98.5, a radio station here in Little Rock that plays nothing but Christmas songs after 7 pm every night starting the day after Thanksgiving. This song has been played pretty frequently. One line in particular from this song keeps resonating in my head:

"Feed the world. Let them know its Christmas time."

And the Christmas season is a great time to spend effort and money helping out those in need. We tend to think more philanthropically from late November to December 25th. Epoch Church, in fact, is taking an opportunity to serve the Little Rock Compassion Center later this month. Arkansas' secretary of state is pushing a campaign raising toys for children of prisoners. Franklin Graham's Samaritan's Purse organization is in the process of delivering shoe boxes filled with gifts to developing countries. The hungry will likely eat better this month. The sad will hopefully find more reasons to smile. The lonely might receive an excess of hugs for the next 16 days.

But what happens on December 26th?

If these things, as needed as they may be, are all that the Church gives, we'll continue to see a world in need. We've got to give something more. Just as Jesus told Peter to feed His sheep if he truly loved him, our command is the same. Obviously this should continue after Christmas season is over, but what better time to start? This Christmas season, let's all give more than just our time to a homeless shelter or our money to the Salvation Army.

Tell someone who Jesus Christ is and what He wants to do in his or her life.

So the 1984 message from Band Aid is still around, and I think plenty of the world still needs to be fed. This Christmas, feed the world with something more. Give a gift that doesn't expire. Spread joy that is found only in truth.

Let them know it's Christmas time.

A Condo Christmas

2007-12-04T19:25:00.001-08:00

As promised here are the pics of my condo's Christmas decor. Not bad considering I only spent 20 bucks, not including the Christmas tree. That was in a closet when I bought the place.

More to come soon. Christmas is awesome!

Goodbye No Shave November...

2007-12-02T19:58:00.000-08:00

I'm shaving my beard off this Tuesday.

I'll miss you, friend.

I know I resemble The Unabomber in this picture.

But I'm not him.

My condo is very Christmas-ed right now. I'll post pictures soon.

Sorry, I'm tired and don't feel like writing much at the moment.

This was a pointless post.

Why I was thankful this thanksgiving...

2007-11-23T16:54:00.000-08:00

Many of you may have heard that I was in a car accident over the Thanksgiving holidays. Despite an amazingly destroyed car, all of us (me & my parents) limped away in pretty good shape. Here's how it went down:
After hitting a wet spot on the road and our car's front passenger tire edging off the road, we spun back across the road, where we slammed into a tree (fortunately, we nailed the tree on my side. I say 'fortunately' because I think my bones took the shot better than theirs would have). The tree sent us spinning in the opposite direction, where the thick off-road mud caused us to stop. From here, we all acknowledged that we were ok. Dad was able to open his door and get out, but I had to crawl out through the window and then pull my mom out the same way. After being taken to the hospital and examined, here's how our injuries broke down:

Dad: 4 stitches in the right hand, black eye, bruised forehead, pulled back muscle, and minor cuts

Mom: Microscopic internal bleeding, bruised legs, minor cuts

Me: Sprained right shoulder, sprained right foot, sprained left knee, minor cuts

Yes, we're all still very sore, but doing MIRACULOUSLY well considering the damage to the car. These pictures of our car are from this morning at the wrecking yard. I highly endorse side curtain airbags, because they definitely saved me from head trauma!

That morning, my mom had read Psalm 3:3, which says "But you are a shield around me, O Lord; you bestow glory on me and lift up my head." I say this sensitively, because even if we had been seriously injured, His goodness would be just as true. Life is a blessing, and I hope all reading this thanks the Lord for the breath you have and are reminded to make the most of every opportunity.

Hydrocodone is also a heavenly gift (when used according to the directions in which they were prescribed).

Dallas Weekend

2007-11-11T10:51:00.000-08:00

Well Joel and I met up with Mike in Dallas this weekend to plan a men's retreat for Joel's church. It turns out the retreat won't happen until the first weekend in April, so we've got much longer to prepare for it than we'd planned. Mike and I are getting to (for lack of a better word) lead it, which is an opportunity we've been praying about for over a year. Needless to say, we're excited. Our goal for this past weekend was to sketch a model-or a big picture for how the weekend would go. And fortunately, we got a lot done and have a lot to work through over the next few months.

Joel and I also got to see Mike's daughter for the first time...

We weren't too sure about each other at first...

Then we settled our differences and were at peace, so I took a short nap...

And that's when she farted

Thanks For Voting

2007-11-09T18:24:00.000-08:00

OK...

You've convinced me. I'll be mailing the UPC code in this week. Who knew holding an online vote would increase the traffic to my site so much? Anyway, thanks for humoring me by paying attention to such a silly question.

Total Recall

2007-11-04T19:57:00.001-08:00

...was told yesterday about the recall that Totino's has put out on their pepperoni pizzas. The ironic thing is I haven't bought any of these since college (though I did steal a couple of Jason's when we lived together). Why I chose last week to break that streak, I'll never know. With the recall, Totino's is refunding everybody the price of their pizza. Since I only bought one pepperoni, I'll get a whopping one dollar plus my shipping fee if I mail in the UPC code. So my question is this: is the one dollar worth the trouble to mail it in? I think they'll give me a coupon for so many dollars worth of food too, so that's enticing.

To help with the decision, I'm leaving it up to you, my reading public. Vote "yes" if you think I should mail in the UPC code, "no" if you think its not worth it. I'm counting on you, so don't let me down.

Halloween Spooktac-u-lar

2007-10-28T13:09:00.000-07:00

Well, our 3rd annual Halloween Spooktacular party happened last night. This year was every bit as good, if not slightly better that last year. I chose to go as the Geico Caveman, as seen above. The only drawback to this costume was that eating became difficult because I kept getting hair in my mouth. Rice krispy treats were especially troublesome, as marshmallow bits stayed in my beard for the better part of the evening. I didn't even try to eat any s'mores until I took everything off. All in all, a great party, great friends, and a great memory. Check out Grant's site for more pics. Also, he's holding a contest where you can vote for the best costume, so go vote for me!

QUICK UPDATE: THE GHOST HUNT BELOW NEVER HAPPENED. WHOEVER OWNED THE GROUNDS THE HOSPITAL WAS ON WOULD NOT LET PEOPLE SPEND THE NIGHT DUE TO LIABILITY ISSUES. SO I CHUGGED A VENTI SIZED STARBUCKS COFFEE AT 10:30 P.M. ON THURSDAY NIGHT FOR NOTHING.

Goin' on a ghost hunt!

2007-10-25T09:35:00.000-07:00

That's right, a life-long dream is finally coming true. While reviewing my last haunted house (NLRs Haunted Hospital), I was informed by the operators that a real-life ghost has allegedly been spotted on the 3rd floor. A group of paranormal experts will be spending tonight on the 3rd floor hoping to make contact. The guy in charge of the Haunted Hospital invited me to come spend the night with them. I'm kinda sick and tired today, but I know I'll regret not going. So, I'll be spending the night with a poltergeist. Odds are that this is all urban legend and no ghost exists. But what if its real? Not that I believe in ghosts, but its halloween...anything could happen.

If any of you want to buy me a can of Red Bull, I'd be most appreciative. Its gonna be a long night.

Boo!

2007-10-20T23:15:00.000-07:00

I love Halloween! Maybe its the weather, maybe its my love of a good scare, or maybe I just like any excuse to eat candy. Either way, this is my second favorite time of year (Christmas being number 1).

This year, I'm writing reviews of Little Rock-area haunted houses for the Arkansas Times. You can read my reviews at www.arktimes.com/blogs/rockcandy. I went to the famous downtown Haunted Cathedral on Thursday night, and to The Chamber of Horrors last night. My review of the cathedral went on the web Friday, I'm assuming the latter will be up on Monday. I've decided my next two will be North Little Rock's Haunted Hospital and Benton's Torture Chamber. I'm not sure if any of these will be published in the Arkansas Times, but it least it made the blog. Plus, the Times is paying for all of my admission fees, so that's nice. Anyway, if you get a chance, check out my reviews and let me know what you think if you visit any of the houses I write about.

...one has this gift, another has that.

2007-10-16T19:06:00.000-07:00

As I mentioned a couple of posts ago, Grant recently got married. His marriage pretty much made me the last single guy of the close friends I regularly hang out with. Now hear me out: I am happily single. I am single by choice. By this, I mean not married. This just happens to be where I am in life right now, and I am satisfied with that for the moment (although, having a girlfriend would be nice). I recently read in 1 Corinthians 7 that singleness and marriage are both gifts. Paul goes so far as to say that being single is better than being married because the need to commit so much of oneself to another person does not exist in singleness.

I live by myself, so I get to make all the decisions for what goes on in my home. If I want to watch UFC, nobody can tell me otherwise. If I want to get up early to write down thoughts or work on a paper, no one can tell me to be quiet. If I want to buy a plasma TV, no one can tell me to not get one too big (except the price tag--geez!). I make a very good bachelor. While all of these are fairly normal luxuries of being single, I do question how much more of myself I could give to the Lord. If singleness is a gift, I have 2 choices: to take advantage of it, or to squander it.

If I use this time in my life to encourage other singles by example to find their worth in Christ instead of a significant other, then I am using this gift for good. If I use the freedom of my current status to invest time in my community of friends and believers, then I am using this gift for good. If I use this time to freely give of my money (as I currently don't have to ask anyone's permission as to how I should spend each paycheck) to my church or to needs of others that come about, I am using this gift for good. If I use this time to be more concerned with being the right person as opposed to finding the right person, I am using this gift for good.

Its easy to get down about not being able to relate to all my married friends. To go from having everything in common to having very different lives is a hard pill to swallow. Nonetheless, I realize that I've been given a gift. And this gift is one I do not want to waste.

Godfather Daniel?

2007-10-10T17:35:00.000-07:00

I can't believe it happened. My buddy, Mike, is now a father. I am now a godfather (with no responsibility, just title). Of course, I remember William Wallace (Braveheart) saying, "Men don't follow titles. They follow courage." Well men may not, but goddaughters do! She was 7 pounds and some ounces, can't really remember. But I do remember she is 19 inches long, so I'm not a completely irresponsible godparent.

I won't get to meet her until next month because Mike and his wife life in Dallas. But

Joel

and I will be traveling to see them soon. Looking forward to it.

UAMS Orthopaedic Forum

2007-10-06T09:32:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I was at UAMS from about 7 a.m. until 3. Pretty easy day. My company (Westside Open MRI) had a booth there, so the marketers were on site to network. In the above picture, you see me and Patrick, one of the other 2 marketers for us. This is the one day a year we have to wear suits to work. Not a bad deal.

Grant gets married today. I'm about to go meet him and the rest of the groomsmen for our last SAT. SAT. while Grant is unmarried. R.I.P, old friend.

Losing...

2007-09-30T20:07:00.000-07:00

It hurts.

I feel like I just got dumped.

Jermain lost. I'm sad.

A rematch clause existed in the contract. I'm confident JT will come back and regain his title.

Until then...*tear

GO JT!!!

2007-09-29T15:43:00.000-07:00

Tonight: Jermain Taylor v. Kelly Pavlik

Taylor: Quick hands, powerful jab, knockout power, big for a middleweight. 27-0-1 (17 ko's)

Pavlik: Big and tall, powerful knockout punch, great conditioning. 31-0 (28 ko's).

Here's why I think Jermain will win: Pavlik has an excellent record, but not against anyone notable, minus Edison Miranda. Taylor's last 2 victories have been ugly, but against the #2 and #6 ranked fighters in the jr. middleweight division. They weren't guys who anyone could expect to beat fashionably. Pavlik will likely come out swinging, while JT will probably throw his jab a lot in the first 3 rounds to keep some distance between them. Eventually, Pavlik will find a way through the jab, which will cause Jermain to start throwing more power shots. I see Jermain able to withstand Pavlik's power longer than Pavlik can sustain his. Therefore, I predict a bloody fight that finds Taylor winning by knockout in round 6.

We'll see tonight starting at 9:15 central on HBO.

P.S. Don't miss the undercard fight. Andre Berto is a little Tyson replica from 1990.

There is more.

2007-09-15T11:48:00.000-07:00

I began following Christ when I was 6 years old. At age 8, I started going to a class for new Christians at my church. This class followed a small group teaching-style format. My group was obviously made up of kids around my age. To entice (or bribe) us into keeping up with the weekly assignments from our "New Christian" workbooks, my small group teacher (Mrs. Seabaugh)promised us she'd take us out for a McDonald's Ice Cream Sundae at the end of the six week class.

On our last meeting, Mrs. Seabaugh led us to believe that she would not be taking us to McDonald's. Though I understand now that she didn't want other groups to be jealous of our group as we walked away from the rest of the class, sticking out our tongues and bragging about our awaiting ice cream treat, at the time we were angry and confused. We had read. We had done our part. We didn't think she was being fair, but we didn't put up that much of a fight. Afterall, we were new Christians. We were told to play nice, especially while at church :)

Then something wonderful happened. About a half hour before class was over, Mrs. Seabaugh asked us to follow her out in the hallway. So the 5 of us got up and followed her into the hallway, down the stairs, and into the parking lot.

"Where are we going?" I finally asked her.

"We're going to McDonald's!" she joyfully replied.

Immediately, a group of tenor voices shrieked with glee. She had tricked us, and done a good job of it. After we settled down and the cheering had stopped, my friend Barry still had one problem.

"But Mrs. Seabaugh," he said, "you lied."

The small group I go to on Thursday mornings (called Man's Group) is currently reading through Job. Its hard to read through this book and watch God allow his loyal servant go through so much suffering. My first response as I read this, much like Job's ultimate question, is "Why does God do this to someone who has done all that he has been asked to do?"

Why God allowed Job to suffer really isn't as important as the fact that God ultimately provided him with blessing and purpose unlike any he previously had. Whether you read this book as allegorical fiction or historical fact, the point of the story is the same:

amidst all calamity and pain, God still loves and God still provides.

So until we are able to stop focusing on the wrong part of our story, let us not forget God's proven goodness and all-knowing provision for every aspect of our lives. When we don't understand, when we are uncertain, when we are confused, when we are hurt, when we are troubled, when we are in doubt, when we are afraid, when we suffer, THERE IS MORE TO THE STORY.

God is not finished. He continues to work, he continues to reveal, he continues to guide. He continues.

There is more.

"Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Let it be so."
-Ephesians 3:20-21

Top o' the Morning

2007-09-12T06:07:00.000-07:00

It's 6:00 a.m. and I'm ready to finish a paper! Never have I been so happy to live a mile from a starbucks (I think probably all of us live a mile from a starbucks).

The joys of full time work and school. Hang in there, Grant and Nathan.

There Once Was a Man...

2007-09-01T21:57:00.000-07:00

There once was a man who bought a house.

He wanted his house to be perfect. He wanted all who walked outside it or came within to feel as if it was the greatest house ever.

He didn't want anyone to worry about coming inside and getting rained on. So he added a new roof, and in fact, the roof did add to its integrity and appearance.

Then he painted it, inside and out. He wanted the house to be the best looking house on the block. And the paint gave the house better curb appeal.

He wanted no one to worry about sitting down on or walking over below-surface dirt. He decided to take action. And he took out the carpet and added hardwood floors. He bought modern area rugs to compliment every table, and the house looked better inside than it had before.

He worried that people would look up toward his ceiling and be unimpressed. So he added crown molding, and his eyes were pleased.

He wondered if everyone would be cool enough inside during the summer. So he bought a new air conditioner to ensure people would be comfortable.

Then the Fall came. And the leaves began to change and fall to the ground. Cool breezes began to sweep through the night air. But the man did not even go outside to notice. He was too busy, searching around his house to find the next improvement project to do. And he found that some light fixtures could be updated.

Then the Winter came and a beautiful snowfall covered his yard and the new bushes he had recently planted. Children were outside building snowmen, making snow angels. Their mothers were outside gathering the whitest powder to make snow ice cream. But this, too, the man didn't see. Instead, he noticed some fans that could be changed. He thought the new fans complemented his light fixtures better.

Then came Spring, and the sun began to shine a little longer. April showers preceded tulips and geraniums in full bloom. The scent of honeysuckle was prevelant from any section of his yard. But the man paid no attention. He began to worry that his shutters weren't the right color. He had also thought about staining his front deck. He was for sure this would increase the property value.

Then came Summer, bringing along barbecues, swimming parties, and baseball games. But the man stayed indoors. Afterall, his house was nice and cool because of the air conditioner he had put in. Well, maybe it could've been cooler. He'd bring out an inspector the next day. Maybe he could adjust the unit to make the house even more comfortable.

Where do you need improvements? Are you as obsessed as this guy? Do your efforts to bring about change for the better keep you inside, unaware of what's going on around you? As good as it is to make things better, sometimes doing so means we miss out on some pretty amazing changes occuring outside of ourselves. Yes, even with improvements that are needed, its easy to become pretty self-involved. My prayer for you is that this goofy story reminds you to get outside of yourself. You probably need some improvements, as do I. But not at the expense of missing how God is working around us. He might just use those times to make the improvements on you Himself.

The Way I Are

2007-08-25T21:55:00.000-07:00

Allow me to shed some light on the mystery that is, well, me. I am patient about some things. For instance, I have my sights set on putting a flat-screen plasma tv up in my home soon. But I can't really justify buying one right now because I have too many other home improvement projects going on. So I'm going to save up for a couple of months before acting. But in other things, such as picking out curtains, I'm the most impatient person you'll meet.

Today I had to go to 4 different stores only to select mounting rods and 1 set of curtains. I needed 3. That means I have to repeat today at some point. I'm not happy about that.

I could feel myself hating each store and every person in it today as I tried to find curtains more than 70 inches wide. An older woman said hello to me on my way in to Wal-mart for the second time. I responded by pushing over her cart. A young couple walking a cocker spaniel puppy cut in front of me as I made my way to the entrance of Bed, Bath, and Beyond. The dog received a quick kick to the hind parts. So did both owners. The line was longer than I wanted it to be once inside Linens N Things. It quickly cleared after Code Adam was announced over the loud speaker. Don't worry, I released the kid minutes later. Home Depot unfortunately doesn't stock curtains. They don't have an assistant manager either. Well, not anymore.

No, it didn't happen exactly like that. But I was ready go postal. So ends another day. Better things to come.

I HATE curtains.

2007-08-18T09:23:00.000-07:00

Sorry guys, the pictures from the condo renevation were too large to download to here. I'm sure there's a way to do it, but I'm not able.

But I wanted to take this time to inform you all of my new guilty pleasure: JAZZ...

I've recently gotten quite addicted to listening to it on a Little Rock station every night that I am driving home from somewhere. So I finally went to "The Afterthought," a jazz club here in The Rock. The Ted Ludwig Jazz trio played, and they were awesome! Ted Ludwig is a local jazz musician who moved up from New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina. The trio was made up of Ted on guitar, a stand-up bassist, and a drummer. For 1 or 2 songs they added a saxophonist and pianist. I've found that my favorite aspects of jazz music is the simple, melodic tunes from the ivories. I hope the next time I go to The Afterthought (which will be next Thursday) to hear more piano, but it was still amazing.

The mural I've attached is just a small piece on the wall at The Afterthought. Seriously, if you like Jazz music and live in Little Rock, I strongly suggest you check it out. If you don't like jazz, try it...

Day 1 in My New Condo (pictures to follow soon)

2007-08-11T21:59:00.000-07:00

I awoke around 9:00 with a few errands to run and some more mini projects around the place.

After moving a $250 desk I bought for $30 up my stairs and into my office, I vowed to sell the desk when I move from here.

I arranged my furniture the way I wanted and had my cable and internet installed.

Around 6:00 p.m. it was time for dinner and a movie with friends. I needed a shower. Unfortunately I realized I left my soap, shampoo, and toothpaste at my former home. To supplement, I found a bottle of dishwashing detergent which made a trip to my shower with me. It wasn't too bad. When I finished, I felt like I understood my flatware better. As for the toothpaste, I found a box of baking soda in the fridge that I used to give the teeth and gums a wash.

Don't worry, I picked up some supplies at wal-mart tonight.

I'm ready for Day 2.

I close tomorrow!!!

2007-07-30T21:02:00.000-07:00

I close on my condo tomorrow! Hopefully I'll be able to move in a week and a half. I plan on working fairly late on it tomorrow night after my small group is over. I've got to take off some mirrors that actually cover an entire wall, which is great for making it look larger than it really is, but not so much the look I'm going for. I'm trying to add a New York loft type feel (excluding the floor because I prefer carpet to hardwood), so I'm having one wall painted to appear like brick. My mom (God bless her) is coming up on Wednesday to spend a few days doing just that. I'll have to paint another wall neutral, steam clean the carpet, and have an electrician ground a few outlets and install another breaker. This hopefully will not take more than a week to accomplish.

Soon and very soon, my friends. Soon and very soon.

The Saddest List Ever Written

2007-07-20T21:32:00.000-07:00

All of us have skeletons in the closet. We all have things about ourselves that we wish weren't true or that no one knew. And we all most certainly find ourselves singing along with songs we wish we could force ourselves to hate.

But we can't.

They plague our ear drums with a sweet sorrowful melody that is impossible to ignore or dismiss.

Here is a list of the songs that have somehow made it onto my good side.

(In no particular order)

TITLE------------ARTIST

Barbie Girl - Aqua

Turn Back Time - Aqua

Big Girls Don't Cry - Fergie

Glamorous - Fergie

Girlfriend - Avril Lavigne

The Rent Soundtrack

Michael Buble's Music

You Raise Me Up - Josh Groban

Cool - Gwen Stefani

Sweet Escape - Gwen Stefani

Don't Stop Believing - Journey

Love of a Lifetime - Firehouse

You are Not Alone - Michael Jackson

Most Creed Songs

I'm sure I could think of more. But I'm interested to hear who else will admit to liking some of these songs, or what other songs you all will admit to secretly enjoying.

Go.

Closing Statement

2007-07-17T19:07:00.000-07:00

Hey guys, sorry for the delay in posts. It appeared for a while that I had learned how to regularly update my blog. But to give everyone a quick bit of info, I had an offer accepted on the condo I mentioned in my last post. So now I'm busy getting insurance quotes, furniture shopping, and preparing to close at the end of this month.

I'll be living here by myself, which I wasn't totally sold on at first, but am becoming increasingly excited about (although I currently have great housemates that I'll miss living with).

All that to say, I hope to have something more important to write about next time.

Snapshot of a Father

2007-07-07T13:34:00.000-07:00

I'm currently in quite a transitional phase. I recently found a condo in West Little Rock I liked and decided to make an offer on it. Immediately after viewing the place, I told my realtor I'd meet her 3 hours later to make an offer. The first person I called after that was my dad.

After my long spill about everything the condo had, why I'd decided on getting it, when I could move in, etc., my dad suggested I take a day or two to pray about this decision (I'd left out the part about me making an offer in 3 hours).

My only problem with that was the fear that someone else might beat me at making an offer. That my procrastination, my hesistation could cause me to lose the condo. "Daniel, I don't want to sway you one way or the other," Dad said. "But if you take some time to pray about it and someone else buys it, you can take that as confirmation that this isn't the place you should be."

While this seems simple enough to comprehend, I still struggled with taking this advice. I believed whole-heartedly that God COULD keep the condo open for me over the next 2 days. But I couldn't help but think that the decision of where I ended up living next was a rather small detail. Surely this choice wasn't important enough to include prayer. Why would I want to wait any longer since I thought I could afford it, liked the neighborhood, and wanted to be living there? To me, it seemed like a common-sense decision, with no mystery for prayer to solve. What good would praying about it do at this point?

I told my dad I appreciated his advice and would keep him posted on the progress of this decision/purchase. Later that night, I pondered over my dad's words. Why was I resistant to praying about such a major decision? I supposed it was because I tend to seperate financial decisions from spiritual ones. Why was my dad so adament about me waiting and praying before I decided to buy this place? I figured it was because he wanted me to be smart with my money. He wanted me to be living in a place I felt happy with, safe in, and confident that I could afford to make payments on.

Because he's my dad, and he wanted nothing less than the best for me.

Hmmm...maybe praying to a God whose story of abounding love and provision as old as time itself wasn't such a bad idea. Maybe He didn't want anything less than the best for me either.

I went ahead and made an offer on the condo...two days later, after asking God to give me wisdom. To use that wisdom to lead me to a wise decision. To bless the decision I would ultimately make.

Whatever happens with the condo, I still believe it to be minor in the grand scheme of things. But I most certainly trust in a loving Heavenly Father who wants to bless His children, whether they are in a life of poverty or fortune.

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart
and lean not on our own understanding;
in all your ways acknowledge him,
and he will make your paths straight"
-Proverbs 3:5-6

iPhone is Here!!!

2007-07-03T23:10:00.000-07:00

I'm holding a multi-hundred dollar piece of equipment.

Its about 5 inches high.

It might weigh a pound.

It will not be owned by me in the near future.

Yes, I have held an iPhone (if you wish to touch or smell my hand, i'll let you). A girl (aka Courtney Dycus--a shout out, you're welcome, Courtney) in my class was recently given one by her boyfriend. Now, I ain't sayin' she's a gold digger...

Is anyone planning on getting one?

My Officlal Start to Summer

2007-07-01T19:53:00.000-07:00

Well...its over. My last summer class will be on Tuesday. Fortunately, I've done the paper, the presentation has been given, and my final exam is complete. The only thing left to do is show up for one more session. [Hooray]

Here is what is on the agenda for this week...

1. Tomorrow I visit an auto dealership to talk about getting a new (used) vehicle

2. Take a look at a condo I'm potentially interested in buying

3. Grill out and watch fireworkds at the River Market for 4th of July

4. Watch the "Transformers" movie

5. Repeat step 1 twice more

6. Pray without ceasing

Hope everyone has a great holiday!

[If reading this, pray for a friend in need.]

Idea...?

2007-06-24T10:42:00.000-07:00

So a lot has run through my mind lately...

...things I'm glad to be thinking about.

A lot of poor people live in Arkansas (and the US and even more so the world, for that matter). The current U.S health care system is a joke, as insurance companies barely pay for anything. But, a bigger joke would be universal health care. For instance, I recently heard a British economist predict that such a system would bankrupt the U.S. One can also look at the French or Canadian health care system and understand how much worse off we would be if we had a government-funded health care system. Idealogically, universal health care is a great idea. But so was communism. Functionally, it wouldn't work because the brightest minds wouldn't go into medicine because they likely wouldn't be paid as well and the medicinal treatment will decline in quality. And to reiterate, the government couldn't afford it anyway.

As a follower of Christ,however, its hard for me to just shrug off the health care problem in America. I believe that something must be done, and those of us who have the ability should do something to assist those who cannot afford it. While there is much I need to investigate further, such as the ins and outs of medicaid (free health insurance for the poor or disabled), I want all who read this to begin thinking of ways to combat this problem. I'm so interested in this existing need that I've even begun to conceptualize starting a non-profit group that will raise money to pay medical bills for people who can't afford them. I know similar groups exist, but I don't know of any that are focused solely on caring for the poor so the government won't have to. This is all something I was just thinking over last night, so I'm very open to suggestions. Be thinking.

Does anyone know of any existing groups who do this? How could such a group be started?

For the kid in each of us

2007-06-15T14:21:00.000-07:00

This week has been great. Two amazing things occurred.

First, on Monday, I was watching "That 70's Show" with Justin. Kelso mentioned that he wanted a bowl of Fruity Pebbles. It brought me back to a day when I wanted a bowl of Fruity Pebbles. Suddenly, I did want a bowl of Fruity Pebbles. So much so that I turned to Justin and said, "I want a bowl of Fruity Pebbles." While I meant this in jest, I was also serious. That's when it happened. Justin turned his thicker-by-the-day bearded face to me and said, "Jason left some up in the cabinet, I think its still there." [For those of you who don't know Jason, he's one of our 3 missionary friends serving the Lord on African soil] And in fact, Jason had left his Fruity Pebbles in the states. Ask and I did receive.

And yes, I did finish the bag then and there. Thanks Jason.

Then today, I accomplished one of my childhood desires. I bought a treat from an Ice Cream truck. I always thought those things were a little creepy. Not the guys who drive them, they seem normal enough. What gets me is the way they appear to warn you of their presence long before they actually arrive. One could be miles away, but you can still hear its circus music as it inches closer and closer and closer. Its like an Ice Cream truck has its own anthem, its own theme music, its own soundtrack. Ice Cream trucks are like Jaws. Anyway, as I clutched my chocolate chip ice cream sandwich, I proceeded to tell the driver of the ice cream truck that I had just checked off one of my childhood dreams. To my sadness, he sighed and said, "Mine was to go to Disney World. Still haven't done that."

Make a dream come true for someone, even if that someone is you. That's ok every once in a while too.

CROSStraining

2007-06-01T15:03:00.000-07:00

Training.

The word itself can have many different facets. Soldiers go through many different kinds of it. Actors experience many different forms, such as vocal, movement, fencing (if they were in Pirates of the Caribbean or Lord of the Rings). You go through it anytime you have a new job. You push through it when involved in competitive sports. That's the training most of us are more experienced with. So lets think on that version of it for a moment...

We've all felt the soreness after a good workout. "My chest is so tight, its killing me...I had a GREAT workout!" That kind of pain is ok. I get excited by that kind of discomfort. Why? Because I now have proof that what I went through bears results.

We rarely see the results while we're in the weightroom. That's where the work is hard and the time goes by slowly. The sweat burns your eyes and your lungs explode during the conditioning. Your body is tired and your mind tells it things that aren't true. This time is very much...not fun.

I've noticed similarities in my life. Take my present situation. I'm 24, a full-time marketing rep and full-time grad student. I'm not married (which has pros and cons). I've got hobbies that lead to goals that I cannot reach right away at this stage in my life. I long for the day I'll have more opportunities to teach, preach, write, and lead. I want to write books. I want to start acting in local productions at Little Rock's theatre called "The Rep." One of my best friends and I would like to start a ministry together. I sometimes think I'd like to work in sports marketing. I sometimes think I'd like to work in advertising. I sometimes think I'd like to work in public relations (which I kinda do already I guess). I sometimes think I'd like to move to Hollywood for a year and pursue acting. Did I mention one of my goals is to be in a movie someday? I sometimes think I'd make a good fundraiser for a non-profit organization. Or a business communication consultant for fortune 500 companies.

I know, I know. All of these goals will not be reached. And I doubt I'll work in every career I just mentioned. I don't think I want to work in that many different careers. I'm at a somewhat weird place in life. There are many different directions life could take. As young as I am, there are many different paths God may lead me down throughout the course of my life, to spread seed in several different settings. I am not settled. I am not finished. I am not comfortable. I am...training. I am being trained. This is training time.

There is more I want to accomplish, do, and see. But there is much I am not ready for. I look forward to what is next. But I can think back and remember very fun times taking place in a weightroom. I'm glad I didn't let the pain and discomfort prevent me from making the most of and even enjoying my time there. Neither will I rush through this current phase.

What's next? God only knows, but I trust Him. I desire to seek Him with all my heart so that my own ambitions and yearnings will be lost and found within His palm. He has led me through previous times of uncertainty, through numerous times of want and need. Though the training may be long, the learning will be mine.

How about you? What kind of training are my brothers and sisters currently going through?

EPOCH UPDATE

2007-05-27T08:39:00.000-07:00

THE FOLLOWING IS AN E-MAIL I RECENTLY SENT TO A GROUP OF PASTORS WHOSE CHURCHES REGULARLY PRAY FOR EPOCH. WE CALL THEM OUR "PARTNER" CHURCHES. I REGULARLY SEND OUT EPOCH UPDATES SO OUR PARTNER CHURCHES WILL KNOW WHAT IS HAPPENING WITH US. I'VE COPIED THIS E-MAIL HERE BECAUSE IT IS A GREAT TESTIMONY TO HOW GREAT GOD IS. ENJOY!

Thank you,

Usually these two words are reserved for the closing of a letter. I could not wait that long to express our gratitude to all of you for praying for our church. In my last e-mail, I shared our desire to move to a new location and to be able to put our pastors on full-time salary. I am very happy to report that both of those needs will soon be met! We will be meeting at the Women's City Club starting on June 10th. Nathan and Grant will be full-time Epoch employees starting June 1. Our Father has once again met our needs.

As I write this, I'm reminded of Acts 12, when Peter escaped from prison because of intervention from an angel. After escaping, his response was "Now I know without a doubt that the Lord sent his angel and rescued me...". He used the word "Now" as if he hadn't been confident of the Lord's provision before, despite all he had already seen Him do.

Let us never become numb to what we have seen God do. Let us never forget the Spirit's work going on before us. Let us not be surprised when God provides all we need. And let us never ever cease to pray for each other, celebrate together, and rejoice because of all He has done.

Las Vegas Trip

2007-05-20T20:47:00.000-07:00

Las Vegas was everything I'd hoped it would be. Amazing hotels, incredible food, and a very exciting atmosphere all made the world's most partied desert worth traveling to. One hang up was American Airlines not getting us into Vegas until 1:00 pm the day after we were supposed to leave. Other than that, the trip was great. I would go back in a heart beat! I'm going to rank my favorite hotel/casinos based on the following categories: most ritzy, best food, best theme, and my overall favorite.

MOST RITZY:

1. Wynn Las Vegas
2. The Bellagio
3. The Venetian

BEST FOOD:

1. Wynn Las Vegas
2. Paris
3. New York, New York
***It should be noted we only ate in 4 casinos

BEST THEME:

1. Paris
2. New York, New York
3. The Venetian

OVERALL FAVORITE:

1. MGM Grand
2. New York, New York
3. The Venetian

Currently Reading...

2007-05-07T14:49:00.000-07:00

That's right...I'm reading for enjoyment again! I haven't done this since going back to school and didn't realize how much I missed it. I mentioned last time how I had started reading two books: Messy Spirituality and The Samson Syndrome. I've borrowed the former from Nathan and it will be coming to Vegas with me. I figure it is probably wise to bring some good Christian literature with me to sin city.

Our flight leaves Little Rock at 6:30 p.m., though I'm not sure what time we'll actually land. I think we've got a connecting flight in Salt Lake City (Go Jazz, porque de Ronnie Brewer).

Pray for Epoch. Exciting things are happening!!! For more, check out Grant's blog or www.epochchurch.org.

And so far, I would highly recommend Messy Spirituality. More on that later.

Much Love,

dm

VIVA LAS VEGAS!!!

2007-04-29T19:48:00.000-07:00

8 days.

That's how much I have left of grad school for this semester. One presentation this week, a couple of finals the next.

8 days.

Yes. This pleases me.

After that, its off to beautiful Las Vegas for 6 days. I'll be gone May 9-14, and I cannot wait!!! Vegas is one of 3 places I've set a goal for myself to visit before I leave this world. The other 2 are Alaska and Italy. I'm going with 2 other friends and staying in some guy's penthouse (and to be honest, I don't really know what gives a house the ranking of "penthouse"). RJ is friends with someone who lives out there who I'm told is a movie producer. Who knows? Maybe this will be my big break into show business :)

I'm budgeting out my trip. I'm the son of a former CPA, its in my blood to do so. I've found that I'm most excited by the buffets I keep reading about. Jay Leno is performing in Vegas while I'm there, so I'm considering catching his show. Other than that, well...what happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas (but I promise not to do anything I wouldn't feel comfortable telling my mother about)

By the way, since school is winding down, its allowed me time to read for enjoyment again. I started on 2 books last week: The Samson Syndrome and Messy Spirituality. Few things make me more aware of the Spirit's moving than reading the works of authors who are so in tune with Him. Good times.

Man's Group Retreat

2007-04-14T13:52:00.000-07:00

As those of you who check out Grant Harrison's blog know, I'm also here in Hot Springs Village right now on a much needed retreat.

Hopefully you got to see the pics of Hinton's car on Grant's site.

Just getting a time to break away from school and not wonder about work has been awesome. There are 12 of us here, each hungry to share what Christ has been doing, what we've been learning, and what we're struggling with. If any of you reading this are not in a men's group (or women's group if you're female), I highly, highly recommend finding one. If you don't know of one, start one. Seriously.

Last night's ribs were amazing. Oh yeah, find a gender specific group that already has a master chef (we have Tom Drogo, owner of the Capitol Bistro).

As iron sharpens iron...

Ditto..

2007-04-12T16:01:00.000-07:00

Seriously...still too busy.

But check back soon.

I'm Really Busy

2007-03-30T20:43:00.000-07:00

My title explains why its been a while since I've posted. I'm less busy now than I've been for the past 10 weeks, but still pretty swamped.

I've been feeling very "blah" this week. Apathetic. I don't like feeling this way because I rarely accomplish anything in this state. Moreover, I fear that an apathetic outlook on my day bleeds over into my walk with Christ. Sure, I may squeeze in my chapter of 1 Samuel before I go to bed, but less time is spent meditating on it. Less time is spent finding ways to live it out. For all the time I spend on school, work, church, school, self-loathing (yeah, I know I put school in there twice), I spend little time thinking of others or paying attention to how God is at work around me.

I guess this is normal, but I can't settle for it. To do so is to admit that I'm satisfied with my life the way it is.

In short, my life is a mess.

But His grace is sufficient.

Live From San Antonio

2007-03-03T10:06:00.001-08:00

Sorry about the goofy look on my face.

Special thanks to my sister-in-law, Rebekah, for her help.

...and that's when I finally understood Rocky III

2007-02-20T15:27:00.000-08:00

I took a sick day from work on Monday. I took a sick day from church the day before. It was on this day that I viewed Rocky III for the 9,297,013th time. While I'm embarrassed to admit it, this was the first time I really got the part when Rocky and Adrian are arguing on the beach in LA, while Rocky is training for his rematch with Clubber Lang (played by Mr. T).

About...48 minutes before this scene, Rocky's long-time trainer (Mick) breaks the news to him that for his last 10 fights, his opponents have been "hand picked" because Mick believed Rocky shoudn't even be alive from his fights with Apollo Creed. All the while, Rocky had believed for the last 3 years that he was fighting the best competition out there. It is because of this that Mick does not want Rocky fighting the number 1 contender, who at this point is Lang.

To fast forward a bit, Rocky fights Lang and loses. Mick dies, leaving Rocky with no trainer...enter Creed. Apollo teaches Rocky about quickness, agility, moving on the balls of his feet, etc. One day, Apollo takes Rocky to the beach to do sprint training, during which Rocky gives up, leading Apollo to remark that his chances of regaining his title are "over."

It is at this moment that Adrian approaches Rocky and tells him that he shouldn't quit because she believes he is the fighter he has been led to believe he was all this time. Rocky, however, makes the exclamation "Nothing is real if you don't believe in who you are!", suggesting that he now views his title-defenses as bogus because he was beating fighters who were easy competition and no longer has faith in his boxing skills.

For years, this statement "nothing is real if you don't believe in who you are" made no sense to me in the context of the movie, mainly because the tape at my parents house is an illegal copy (hope no one at the FBI reads this) and the sound was pretty ghetto-fied. So, now that I was able to view this film in decent audio quality, I finally understand what Rocky was yelling about. Most of you who read this probably understood the movie perfectly. I mean, come on, its Sylvester Stallone. But I get it now, so don't fret. And I totally blame poor sound for my original blur.

Many of you may be waiting for some biblical parallel to be drawn here...

Nope, I just really wanted to share my new Rocky knowledge (but I'm currently reading 1 Samuel 1-10 and am very impressed with Hannah's committment to her original promise)

Until next time,

dm

What a day, what a day...

2007-02-13T15:54:00.000-08:00

Wow, yesterday was quite interesting. A system overload for me, if you will (and if you won't...choke). I learned very exciting (and surprising) news.

The first came around lunch time, with one of my best friends, Mike Reading, calling me in a panic, saying that his wife had taken 2 EPT tests, both of them saying she was pregnant. He was on the way to take her to a doctor to find out for sure if they were going to have a baby. Sure enough, Amber is 8-10 weeks pregnant. Considering they've been married only 8 months, it was quite the surprise. I was happy to accept the role of the child's godfather. And by accepting the role, I mean I asked Mike "Hey, can I be the godfather...I don't want to take care of the kid if you die, but I just want the title." He said "Sure, why not?"

So, in 7 months, I'll be THE GODFATHER...

On to my next piece of news from yesterday. Another one of my best friends, Travis Ashby (from high school), let me know that he is getting married April 28th. He also asked me to be his best man, which I was honored to agree to.

So I've been named a godfather and a best man all in the same day. Please, if anything major happens in anyone else's life in the near future, don't tell me for a little while. I've had too much information for one week.

Sat. Sat.

2007-02-11T11:01:00.000-08:00

A new tradition emerged roughly a month ago here in Little Rock. Ok, the tradition is not really a Little Rock thing, but a Grant, Nathan, Chris, and Me thing.

It started when Grant and I dropped off our roommate (Justin) at the airport one Saturday morning and needed a place for breakfast...or lunch...brunch. We first went to a restaraunt in the Little Rock airport. The menu looked pricey and we guessed the food would not be that great. So, we opted to go find some place new, some place different, some place...good.

Our decision...Satellite Cafe.

Though not much to look at, this place boasts great food, one great piece of art, and a yuppy crowd to make you think that you are richer than you actually are. Its subtle, small, and always busy. The one true downfall is the price. For instance, a glass of orange juice costs $4.25. One pancake is $3.00. I usually get "Rodney's breakfast sandwich" which is 3 egg whites on 9-grain bread with pepper jack cheese and salsa fresca. I like to get a side of a pancake or hashbrowns, something to take the edge off (i don't really know what that phrase means, but I've always wanted to use it and it seems to work there).

We've named this event "Sat. Sat." for obvious reasons. All that to say, if you are ever in Little Rock on a Saturday around 11:00 a.m., you can expect to see me and my entourage at Satellite Cafe. I highly recommend it...but bring your wallet!

My Attempt at Abstract

2007-02-08T15:38:00.000-08:00

Focus on...

Resurrection

Projects
Eternity

Training

The Word

Finances

Father

Social Life

Sovereign

Love

Kingdom

Friends

Love

Family

People

Future

Truth

I AM not

Meditate

Prime time

I AM

Myself

Redemption

Focus on...

The Worst Tasting Supplement...Ever

2007-02-01T19:46:00.000-08:00

"Eureeka! Eureeka!"

Those were the words uttered by the genius that discovered the catapult. Though those weren't quite the words I said the first time I took a gulp of Amino Fuel, I have certainly found the worst tasting supplement known to man.

I've tried a lot of supplements: proteins, carb drinks, creatine; but this stuff beats all of them in its ability to literally make me cringe at the thought of taking it. Why do I continue? Because I was raised by a CPA who used to always tell me anytime we were in a restaraunt, "Order whatever you want, as long as you eat all of it." Well, I take those words to heart, especially now that I have to pay for everything myself. And I'm not about to let my hard earned money go to waste.

The truth is I bought the stuff with a gift card that I found in my wallet from when I graduated college. Yeah, I don't know how I've had it for almost 2 years and not used it. It felt like finding a 5 dollar bill in your jeans that you forgot about. Bliss...

Also, who is Beechnut? I'm guessing Jenny? Identify yourself, anonymity is only for hitmen.

Why Blog So Often?

2007-01-27T21:41:00.000-08:00

Recently, I was informed that a blog should be updated at least a few days per week. Why? Even computer geeks (not that there is anything wrong with that) have more to do than gaze upon recent posts...don't you guys? I like to post maybe once every week and a half or so, to make sure all 5 of you who actually read this thing get a chance to do so before I update it again. So, I need some feedback: how often should I put up a new post? Between all I have going on, I honestly don't think about posting that often. But if more posts are requested, I suppose I'll appease the masses. Yeah, apparently I'm a sell out.

On to more important things. My Super Bowl predicition at this point is Chicago 34 - Indianapolis 30. I honestly think this could be a really good Super Bowl. I'm by no means an NFL buff; in fact, many women probably follow pro football more closely than me...

You know what, I just realized that I'm not qualified to make a prediction. If I have time, I'll think about it and post a real prediction later.

Po=Pour=Ree

2007-01-20T23:11:00.000-08:00

Too much to talk about...

-Grad school ignited

-Lost a quarterback (good riddance)

-Lost an offensive coordinator (in doing so regained our dignity)

-Training

-Birthday

-Learning more and more that God does exactly what He says He will do

Why I'm Currently Stoked

2007-01-12T14:56:00.000-08:00

Who is it that sings that ridiculous song called "I'm So Excited"? I'm so not a fan. But, for the time being, I can relate to the lyrics of such a prize piece. The reason: 24 returns for its 6th season in exactly 2 days!!! I remember how depressed I was late last May when they showed a trailer for season 6, followed by the disclaimer "Coming in January 2007." Well friends, the time is here. We know Jack Bauer has been captured by underground Chinese secret agents and probably been imprisoned in northern Siberia. Sure, he'll escape or be rescued, or maybe all the guards will simultaneously acquire hyperbaric foot ulcers and be unable to chase Jack if he makes a run for it. You never know with this show, for better or worse. That is why I am currently stoked. Until then-enjoy!

-dm

My Random Opinions

2007-01-08T19:30:00.000-08:00

If anyone is interested in knowing me deeper (yes, you) then there are some opinions I hold that make me unique.
These opinions act in such a way because my view is typically different from most on a few certain topics. The following is a random collage of thoughts held by me, the white d-mac (Darren McFadden beat me out for the title of the black d-mac).

1. Coldplay sucks because Chris Martin doesn't sing very well. Not because he can't, but he chooses not to. Don't believe me? The next time you see someone choking in a restaraunt, tell me his cries for dear life don't sound like Apple's father crooning "Nobody said it was easy"

2. Scarlet Johansson: not that hot! No, I don't think she's ugly, or even unattractive. I just don't find myself pursuing girls who look like they've been on an episode of Cops screaming for their alimony check. That's an extreme over-exaggeration, she's ok.

3. Rocky V was a pretty good movie. I don't have much to back this up, but Rocky's character is a natural choice to get into a back-ally brawl.

4. Kill Bill is possibly the worst movie made. Kill Bill vol. 2 is a close second, I'm sure, but I must confess I never finished either.

5. Jerry Seinfeld is not funny. And on that note, Elaine's character is possibly TV's most annoying feminine presence of all time.

6. The best kind of weather is very cloudy, cold, windy, and drizzly.

7. Vince Young will NOT succeed in the NFL in the long run. Oh sure, he had a great rookie season---FOR A ROOKIE WHO NO TEAM HAS SEEN BEFORE THIS SEASON!!! Trust me, he's way, way overrated.

8. David Letterman, even on his best day, will never be a better late night talk show host than Jay Leno or Conan O'Brien. Its not that he's not funny, but mainly because of his idiot band leader, Paul Whats-his-face.

9. Potato salad is better served hot. In fact, I can only eat it when served hot. If any of you are ever in the Capitol Bistro, order the "D-style" potato salad. That mean's you want it microwaved. So far, I've only gotten one other person to try it. But it will catch on. Oh yes, it will catch on.

Yeah, I own a Macbook

2006-12-23T10:27:00.000-08:00

So this Christmas, we infringed on a new tradition. For the past 23 years, we've always opened presents in chronilogical order (I go first, my bro second, my mom third, and then my dad). Well this year, my pop spontaneously decided that my sister-in-law would start things off. My bro and I resisted because we grew up baptist and therefore hold up traditions as everlasting. But (tsk, tsk) a new world order was put in place at the McPherson home this year. We also opened our presents a couple of nights earlier than usual because Douglas and Rebekah (bro/sisnlaw) are flying to Florida in 2 days for their Christmas.

Ok, the point of the new blog: I am now the owner of a Macbook. This pleases me. I very much enjoyed creating a slideshow from my photobooth until 1 a.m. I'm including some pics from that event. Enjoy!

Top 10 Christmas Movies (in my opinion)

2006-12-07T18:38:00.000-08:00

Its Christmas time, my favorite time of the year. I'm somewhat of a closet movie buff, and I'd like to spill my 2 cents about my favorite Christmas flicks. So from bottom to top, these are what I consider the non-miss films you all should watch this year.

(Cough, cough)

10. The Polar Express - Technically haven't seen this one, but the book is f-a-n-tastic
9. Eight Crazy Nights - Yeah, its a Hannukah movie, you racist
8. Rudolph the Red-nosed Reindeer - I don't care if its clay-mation
7. How the Grinch Stole Christmas (Jim Carrey version) - That suit is weird
6. Ernest Saves Christmas - Back when Ernest made me laugh
5. Elf - Come on, its Will Ferrell!!!
4. Home Alone - Did anyone else try to thief-proof their home after seeing this?
3. A Christmas Story - Fa ra ra ra ra, ra ra ra ra
2. Christmas Vacation - For the crazy grandmother, "Are we at the airport, Clark?"
1. Its a Wonderful Life -Traditional fave, you can't not like it!

Agree or disagree??? Give me your thoughts.

Merry Christmas

-d

I'm Back!!!

2006-12-01T20:13:00.000-08:00

Yes blogger friends (all 4 of you), I've returned. After a 2 month hiatus from bloggerland, I'm ready to make a new post. Let's review what's happened in the past 8 weeks...

I've got 2 finals and 2 presentations left this semester for grad school

I'm currently fighting for a raise at work

I'm going to be on the 4th row at the Jermain Taylor fight Dec. 9th (This one actually deserves and explanation. I got my good friend Katie Longino to participate in a 103.7 "The Buzz" boxing contest. Using inflatable gloves, she unanimously destroyed two other girls to gain 2 ringside tickets to this middleweight championship bout. Unfortunately for her, she cannot go because she'll be in a wedding that weekend. Fortunately for me, she has handed them over and I am really stoked. I hope I get blood on me.)

Those are the highlights...really hope my life seems more exciting to someone else. Hope all had a great thanksgiving and you'll hear from me soon. Try to contain thyself.

-d

Pray for Muslims

2006-10-01T20:24:00.000-07:00

We are currently in the 9th month of the Muslim calender, also known as "Ramadan." During this month, Muslims are not allowed to eat, drink, smoke, or have sexual relations during daylight hours. They also take part in 5 daily prayers and a special night prayer called the Taraweeh. This prayer sometimes lasts all night long. The reason Muslims observe this practice is to concentrate on their faith and spend less time concerned about wordly issues. They also dedicate this time to studying the Quran and contemplate Islam.

What is significant for Christians about all this is that surveys have shown that many practicing Muslims have dreams about Jesus during this month.

Tonight at Epoch, we presented our people with the opportunity to pray for Muslims throughout the month of Ramadan, which will last through October 23rd. I ask all who read this to pray too. Specifically, pray when you wake up in the morning because it will be night time in the Middle East (no, not all Muslims are in the Middle East, but many are). Pray that Christ will reveal himself and those who dream of Him will have hearts that long for the one true God.

And if you want to read an example of people coming to know Christ through a dream, check out Acts 10. Its an awesome story.

Praying...

Culture

2006-09-20T20:25:00.000-07:00

Its practically impossible to escape what is surrounding you. Don't believe me? Try seperating yourself from your shadow on a sunny afternoon (Peter Pan couldn't do it!). Or try to out manuever the "floaties" in your peripheral vision. Sorry folks, it ain't gonna happen. They are there to stay.

The same can be said for the culture we live in. Many times this is a pretty cool thing. I love how excited small southern towns get about high school football. TV commercials promoting Halloween and Christmas are lots of fun. And who isn't grateful that we actually get to chose who we marry (or to not get married) as opposed to being in an arranged ceremony?

The dangerous thing about culture is the effect it can have on the way we view the world. We graduate from college and consider ourselves financially uncomfortable to be making less than $30,000 dollars per year. How soon do we forget that very few people in the world will ever own that much money! Or maybe we are excited to hear that our best friend has started dating this great girl, until we see her for the first time and are shocked to find that she is black. We find ourselves fixated on and heartbroken over a hurricane that overtakes one of our countries cities while barely noticing the thousands of slaughtered children in Africa, sometimes at the hands of other children with M-16s strapped across their little chests.

Its hard to get around. Our culture socially constructs our worldview. I've viewed the world through the lense of my culture. You have too.

The good news is that hope exists. Yes, even for you and me. Christ called those who followed him to live life counter-culturally. To turn the other cheek. To consider others better than ourselves. To pray for those in persecution while blessing those that persecute. To forfeit the freedom of life itself, so that others would see the glory of God.

And yet, as hard as it is for us to see the world through this lense, doing so only brings our vision clarity.

Went to the Chapel and I Didn't Get Married

2006-09-10T20:00:00.000-07:00

Ah, yes. Wedding season has officially come to a close. As for me, I have been in 4 weddings in the past 9 months. I was only a spectator in this last one, and for that, my wallet has been thanking me.

I enjoyed seeing my good friends Justin Bourlon and Robyn Hopper tie the noose...I mean knot...this past weekend in Rogers, AR. Fortunately, the ceremony went off without a hitch and I was able to reunite with several college buddies. Unfortunately, I caught the garter.

If you don't know Justin and Robyn, their story is one of the few "hopeless romantic" stories I've ever known that actually worked out. Before they started dating, Justin pursued that girl for 2 years (I like to tease Robyn who was an all-conference cross country runner in college that Justin was the only race she couldn't win). Despite the hurdles Justin had to jump to finally get her to go out with him, he persevered. And ever after all the times it looked like things would never work out the way he wanted, he persevered. And even though some of his closest friends told him he needed to give up, he persevered. Because of that perseverence, Justin is now honeymooning in Jamaica with his wife.

Even though most stories don't end as well as Justin's did, the point here is not the outcome or even Justin's specific situation. Life throws us many discouraging barriers, but its how we react to those barriers that defines our character. I'm not much of a hopeless romantic, but I'm proud to say I have friend with the character that Justin does. That guy really pushes me as a man.

Until next time
dm

Back to School, Back to School, to prove to dad that I'm not a fool...

2006-09-02T17:11:00.000-07:00

I just had my first week of class in grad school. My classes are Monday and Wednesday nights from 6:00-9:00 p.m.

My Monday night class was quite interesting. How a professor is able to lecture for 2 1/2 hours straight is rather amazing to me. Ah, the academia world...
More importantly, I learned what the word "arbitrary" means. Learning new words makes me happy. Look for heavy uses of that word in posts to come.

I was quite saddened to read in my syllabus for my Wednesday night class that my first assignment would be due the following week: read 3 chapters, an 8-page article, and write a five page response paper to the reading. My response was reserved for a 5-line paragraph I read in the article. Not my best work, but I've been out of the game for over a year, I'm just happy to have completed my first assignment.

Well, I'm going to try to make peace with the fact that keeping a full-time job while working on a master's degree isn't easy. Don't feel sorry for me. During college I was a P.E. major with a minor in Speech Comm. I had it pretty easy my last 2 years. Its my time to pay the reaper. Look for continued improvements in my diction as the semester goes by...

dm

Explanation of the Title...

2006-08-24T16:10:00.000-07:00

Ok, so a few people have been trying to persuade me for some time now to try this 'blogger' thing out. And by a few people, I really just mean Grant Harrison. So here goes...

Ra'a is a Hebrew word that means visual perception, to look at, or especially for this purpose, to examine. This is the word used in Genesis for "saw" when Eve looked at the fruit from the Tree of Life, contemplating whether or not to taste of it. This is also the same word used in 2 Samuel when David looked upon Bathsheba. This was more than a look. This was an examination, from stem to stem, head to toe. A look that concluded with sin...

Here is another approach that I hope to take on this site. Since I've never done a blog, I'm sure it will take me a while to really feel at home with what to post, how to say what I want, and how to most clearly convey what I mean. So until and as that time comes, I hope this will be one way through which I can look at and examine my own life. Also, I hope to use these paragraphs to encourage, share with, and also gain insightful feedback from those of you who will read them.

Hope to hear from many of you soon---oh wait, I need to get some blogger friends now. Well, the invitation is open to all. Talk with you all then...

dm