It's been a busy end of the year:
Last month dad, mom, A, and I packed up and headed North to Seattle for a wedding. We had a great time. The weather was sooo great, a true fall. It was slightly rainy, cold, and overcast. The trees were all shedding for winter and everyone was decked in their winter-wear. The wedding was beautiful too. But two things stood out in my mind about our short Thanksgiving weekend trip:
1. The Sekijima Family. I love each and every one of them. We had a chance to spend practically the whole weekend with them and it was great! John and Celia are fantastic people, and they are completely reflected in their kids. Even though we don't get to see each other very often, every time we do, we just pick up right where we left off. I appreciate them for their love for the Lord, their honesty in life, and their love for our family. Sunday night we had a 3 hour dinner... and it felt like 30 minutes. That is one special clan and it is a privilege to know them.
2. Seattle. Aimee and I were in season heaven! Monday we drove to downtown Seattle and it was so great! Christmas was everywhere! Every window dressing was decked out in Christmas, every lamp and street light was decorated. The Seattle's Best's were giving out real gingerbread men with their gingerbread latte's. The people were so friendly and in the Spirit of the season! We even saw the most amazing gingerbread house competition on display! I actually saw Santa too. It was so fun, so cold, and so festive. We were in heaven. I even shopped for a long period of time with Aimee and mom without complaining!
I love Seattle and I love the Sekijima's.
Since then we have been busy shopping for presents, buying Christmas trees, practicing for Christmas Sunday at the Community Center, celebrating birthday's (A's and mom's), and all in the midst of work and school. It's been a busy end of the year. I suppose it's always a busy end of the year.
In the midst of life's craziness, I attempted to be domestic tonight and try and cook dinner. I went food shopping at Mitsuwa, I prepped for two and a half hours...I read, reread, and reread the cooking directions, I cleaned...and just when I thought I was in the clear...just when I was about the put the food in the oven and pat myself on the back, I smelled something funny from the oven. Like something putrid was burning. But I hadn't yet put any of the food in there. I opened it up and realized I had forgotten to take out the griddle we store in the oven, before I had turned the oven on. There was melted plastic EVERYWHERE! I freaked out, opened all the doors and windows, turned all the fire alarms off, pulled the fans out of the garage, shut the hallway door and then called dad sobbing. He had me call the Fire Department. They said beyond the loss of the appliance in the oven, and the oven itself we should be fine. Are you hearing what I'm saying?
In an attempt to cook dinner for my family, I not only burned an appliance, but I also broke our oven.
I've tried to convince myself that it's not a big deal, don't be upset...at least you didn't burn down the house. But such rationalization is no longer working. I must not be made to cook. Bummer.
Also, I figured I would use this as a lesson to all who use the oven; Remember to always take anything out of the oven, before attempting to use it.
Merry Christmas Everyone. As Warren told us all this Christmas Sunday, may Christ reign in each one of our hearts as we celebrate his birth.
Monday, December 22, 2008
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Stay with Me
Lots has been going on and my mind has been overloaded trying to process everything. Here's a bit:
1. I attended the Youth Specialties Convention a few months ago and heard a biblical historian, Phyllis Tickle, speak on "The Emergent Church". Now, if I understand it correctly, she said the para church is headed in a new direction; no longer will there be different denominations but "the church" will be one body. There is much more depth involved but that was the gist. She said that historically, every time there has been a change in direction in the church there have been wars within the church (the reformation, etc.). It was her opinion that we too will have a war within the church if we don't follow the leading of the Spirit in adapting to this change.
2. For class I'm reading "The World is Flat" by Thomas Friedman. His basic premise is that the world will soon no longer have certain world powers. Soon, countries like India and China will have as much power as the US, Europe, etc. have, as globalization continues. The book is incredibly convincing. The power of the internet and what that has done to change the way life, business, markets, EVERTHING works, is incredible. I believe we are headed in this direction.
3. The reaction to the passing of Prop 8 just reinforces my opinion that the Christian mindset, values, and basic beliefs are heading towards a scary minority. It is no longer "popular" to be a Christian. It is no longer "cool" to have a resounding belief in Jesus Christ and a commitment to the values and lifestyle that comes with that relationship. In fact, it is just the opposite, it is completely unpopular. We are headed into an era where it will not only be unpopular to be a Christian, but we will be persecuted for it. The word "tolerant" will someday be a word we use in defense of ourselves, as opposed to a word used against us now.
I tell you all this because I have been wrestling with this question: What is our responsibility to do something about this? My children, your children, are going to grow up in a world where traditional jobs will no longer be available, the influence of world power will be shifting among countries - even communist countries, they will be persecuted for believing in the One True God, the Trinity. I have a holy fear within my stomach, even writing this now, about the state of the world in fifteen, twenty, maybe even ten years from now. I am scared for my children and my grandchildren.
I have written before how I want to make sure when I get to the gates of heaven I can say I honestly did everything I thought I could do on earth for the glory of the Lord. I wonder now what that is? What is my responsibility in being apart of something that will create a better world for my children, that will encourage Christ in the community, that will promote the church throughout the world? My stomach is unsettled seeing the bigger picture. My mind is fraught with the unknown, and not quite knowing what my role is in that.
I shared my concerns with Josh. He reminded me that 1. God is Sovereign. Ultimately, in our faithfulness, we will be provided for and cared for - even when times get tough. 2. As for my role, if we are faithful to His calling, what that "responsibility" is will be revealed. It is not in us to come up with it, but instead to be obedient to whatever it is when God presents it to us. I am comforted by this. I cannot be frantic about the future. God had Moses lead sheep for 40 years. Then look at the responsibility given to him...lead the Isrealites out of Egypt!
My plea to you - have a greater understanding of the coming days. And with that prepare - strengthen your knowledge of Christ so you can use it as your shield, weapon, armor, breastplate, and sword. And seek to discipline yourself in Christ's ways.
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
President-Elect Obama
I found this somewhere out in the world of the internet:
"I am absolutely elated this country has changed enough that my daughter lives in a world a black man can become president...God is sovereign, He knew Obama was going to be elected. Pray for our president that he will accomplish God's will. Pray for our presidents heart and his mind, for discernment and wisdom."
I tend to agree.
J.
"I am absolutely elated this country has changed enough that my daughter lives in a world a black man can become president...God is sovereign, He knew Obama was going to be elected. Pray for our president that he will accomplish God's will. Pray for our presidents heart and his mind, for discernment and wisdom."
I tend to agree.
J.
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
In Honor of Kyoko Sakaguchi
I just returned from attending Kyoko Sakaguchi's funeral. For those of you who don't know her, she was a member of Venice church since its founding days, and someone who helped to raise me.
Dad asked me to give a eulogy. I stubbornly refused and volunteered for any other duty, one not so public. Aimee did it instead, and what an amazing job she did. It was touching, personal, well-spoken, and focused on Christ. I knew I wouldn't have been able to hold it together. But I do have many fond memories of her. If I were to speak this is what I would have said:
I can remember playing in her house. I can still see her changing Tom's bandages everyday when he was sick. I remember eating lunch together and afterwards we would be sent to play so she could watch her favorite tv show 'Days of our Lives". I remember her smell and her gentle spirit. I remember our excitement when Tom came home and he would allow us to ride on the lift on the back of his truck, with Kyoko watching from the front door. I remember the chuckle she always had after every sentence. I remember her giving our family a wake-up call when we had accidently slept in for sunrise service. I remember the cover she had on the couch and "Tom's chair" that I loved because it swiveled and rocked.
But most of all, when I think of Kyoko, I see a life lived in dedication and faithful service to Christ. She was humble and selfless. Thinking back I can't remember her ever complaining about anything. She was dedicated to my father and was always supportive of his leadership in the church. I appreciate her for that. As I write this today I wish I was more eloquent and better able to express how much she meant to me. But this is all I have; my love and a peace within knowing she is in heaven, rejoicing with Christ, free of pain, and reunited with Tom.
May her legacy of love to our Father carry on, and may her witness bring those who knew her to Christ.
I love you Kyoko.
Dad asked me to give a eulogy. I stubbornly refused and volunteered for any other duty, one not so public. Aimee did it instead, and what an amazing job she did. It was touching, personal, well-spoken, and focused on Christ. I knew I wouldn't have been able to hold it together. But I do have many fond memories of her. If I were to speak this is what I would have said:
I can remember playing in her house. I can still see her changing Tom's bandages everyday when he was sick. I remember eating lunch together and afterwards we would be sent to play so she could watch her favorite tv show 'Days of our Lives". I remember her smell and her gentle spirit. I remember our excitement when Tom came home and he would allow us to ride on the lift on the back of his truck, with Kyoko watching from the front door. I remember the chuckle she always had after every sentence. I remember her giving our family a wake-up call when we had accidently slept in for sunrise service. I remember the cover she had on the couch and "Tom's chair" that I loved because it swiveled and rocked.
But most of all, when I think of Kyoko, I see a life lived in dedication and faithful service to Christ. She was humble and selfless. Thinking back I can't remember her ever complaining about anything. She was dedicated to my father and was always supportive of his leadership in the church. I appreciate her for that. As I write this today I wish I was more eloquent and better able to express how much she meant to me. But this is all I have; my love and a peace within knowing she is in heaven, rejoicing with Christ, free of pain, and reunited with Tom.
May her legacy of love to our Father carry on, and may her witness bring those who knew her to Christ.
I love you Kyoko.
Monday, October 20, 2008
Hello Oprah.
In order to know the Truth, believe in the Truth, and stand up for the Truth, you have to know what isn't the Truth.
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
On My Mind
So I've been berated by my two fans for not updating. Here's a brief synopsis of..well, everything:
1. Olympics - I am a HUGE fan of the Olympics. Aimee and I grew up watching Bob Costas and cheering for the Americans. I love being patriotic. This year was no exception as my patriotism/ultra competitiveness tuned in to NBC for as much Olympic coverage I could make myself stay up for. The great moments for me were the obvious wins from Lukin and Phelps, and more. But this year, several aspects of the Games grated me and here they are:
A. The Chinese. My perspective of China as host of the Games is summed up in the story of the girl from the opening games who was replaced because she was ugly. The emphasis for the Chinese was obviously on perception. But what of the underbelly? Shooting chemicals into clouds to change the weather, restricting traffic prior to the opening ceremony to reduce emissions, the questionable age of the gymnasts, etc. There was no doubt awe over the vision and execution of the opening ceremony, as well as beauty in the newly constructed Olympic arenas ( I mean, the Cube was amazing). But at what sacrifice?
B. Note to NBC: You can't call something live when I've already heard the results.
2. Between work, school, other work, Josh, church, and family I'm barely getting enough air. To balance that though, I've never been so sure that this is where God wants me.
3. I have the notion in my head that I want to compete in a mini-triathalon (no people, I am not jumping on the Jennifer Lopez fan bandwagon. I was planning on it before her). But I've realized that I need to learn how to swim through the deep end of a pool and not feel like I'm drowning in order to take this seriously. So, I've taken up swimming. I still don't know if I can do it. We'll see. Sidenote: if anyone knows how to swim the backstroke in a straight line, I would appreciate a helpful tip.
4. There's nothing more hilarious than being in an Ethics class with a bunch of Christians who are trying to not be the stereotypical Christian. I wonder sometimes, as I'm sitting there, if the Christian culture is trying sooo hard to be secular cool, that we've lost the beauty of being a Christ follower. What are we called to do in this life? "Here is the conclusion of the matter, Fear God and keep His commandments, for this is the whole duty of man." Ecclesiastes 12: 13
5. I just finished a financial biblical study from Crown Financial Ministries. It was amazing. It gives you a whole new perspective on money and the purpose of it. It also helps you to budget, prioritize, get out of debt, and live free. If you need this, go to www.crown.org to see how you can get a study going. If you're local to Venice Church, Marion Yumori is jotting down interested parties for her next class. It's only 10 ppl max per class so get your name on that list!
6. For those of you who are aware of the impending loss of my right arm... Josh is currently working in a lab that is producing new technology for prosthetic limbs. Coincidence?? I think not.
7. I read an article by J. Lee Grady about the Florida movement with Todd Bentley. I was so impressed that I will scan it in when I can and post it. Stay tuned.
1. Olympics - I am a HUGE fan of the Olympics. Aimee and I grew up watching Bob Costas and cheering for the Americans. I love being patriotic. This year was no exception as my patriotism/ultra competitiveness tuned in to NBC for as much Olympic coverage I could make myself stay up for. The great moments for me were the obvious wins from Lukin and Phelps, and more. But this year, several aspects of the Games grated me and here they are:
A. The Chinese. My perspective of China as host of the Games is summed up in the story of the girl from the opening games who was replaced because she was ugly. The emphasis for the Chinese was obviously on perception. But what of the underbelly? Shooting chemicals into clouds to change the weather, restricting traffic prior to the opening ceremony to reduce emissions, the questionable age of the gymnasts, etc. There was no doubt awe over the vision and execution of the opening ceremony, as well as beauty in the newly constructed Olympic arenas ( I mean, the Cube was amazing). But at what sacrifice?
B. Note to NBC: You can't call something live when I've already heard the results.
2. Between work, school, other work, Josh, church, and family I'm barely getting enough air. To balance that though, I've never been so sure that this is where God wants me.
3. I have the notion in my head that I want to compete in a mini-triathalon (no people, I am not jumping on the Jennifer Lopez fan bandwagon. I was planning on it before her). But I've realized that I need to learn how to swim through the deep end of a pool and not feel like I'm drowning in order to take this seriously. So, I've taken up swimming. I still don't know if I can do it. We'll see. Sidenote: if anyone knows how to swim the backstroke in a straight line, I would appreciate a helpful tip.
4. There's nothing more hilarious than being in an Ethics class with a bunch of Christians who are trying to not be the stereotypical Christian. I wonder sometimes, as I'm sitting there, if the Christian culture is trying sooo hard to be secular cool, that we've lost the beauty of being a Christ follower. What are we called to do in this life? "Here is the conclusion of the matter, Fear God and keep His commandments, for this is the whole duty of man." Ecclesiastes 12: 13
5. I just finished a financial biblical study from Crown Financial Ministries. It was amazing. It gives you a whole new perspective on money and the purpose of it. It also helps you to budget, prioritize, get out of debt, and live free. If you need this, go to www.crown.org to see how you can get a study going. If you're local to Venice Church, Marion Yumori is jotting down interested parties for her next class. It's only 10 ppl max per class so get your name on that list!
6. For those of you who are aware of the impending loss of my right arm... Josh is currently working in a lab that is producing new technology for prosthetic limbs. Coincidence?? I think not.
7. I read an article by J. Lee Grady about the Florida movement with Todd Bentley. I was so impressed that I will scan it in when I can and post it. Stay tuned.
Thursday, June 12, 2008
Join Me
I work for Dr. Randy Yumori. His wife, Marion Yumori was diagnosed with Ovarian Cancer last year and since has been going through many different types of treatments. Last week she shared her testimony at S-Factor (Venice church women's group). It's quite long, but worth it. If you ever wonder what faith should really look like, listen to this.
http://download.yousendit.com/08822C447F4B3C2F
God is so amazing, isn't He? Please join me in praying for healing for Marion. I'll keep you updated.
http://download.yousendit.com/08822C447F4B3C2F
God is so amazing, isn't He? Please join me in praying for healing for Marion. I'll keep you updated.
Dance
Some of the most emotional pieces of art are found in dance. Last night mom and I were watching "So You Think You Can Dance" and it was funny and entertaining until this performance. I was moved.
Meet Katee and Joshua.
Meet Katee and Joshua.
Monday, May 19, 2008
May 16, 2006
Josh graduated!
Knowing the countless hours he spent studying and/or working on some project or another, I know how hard he worked to get here. Sidenote: It was hot. And if you know Josh, he HATES hot. It's the one thing that can truly put him in a bad mood. :) He hung in there though.
He was up to his eyes in leis. It was hilarious and a bit much. :) He's got a lot of love from his fam in hawaii.
I feel lucky that I was able to celebrate with him.
As for seasons...It seems surreal that the season of undergrad has ended for him. He has lots of plans to work and go back to school... but for now we can celebrate the past four years and where God has brought him.
For many, it seems like the transition from school to work is daunting. Finding a job...finding the right job is frustrating. But Josh, and the many others in the same season of life can hold to the promises from God, "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart." Jeremiah 29:11
After Moses died, Joshua must have felt a huge overwhelming responsibility of caring for the Israelites. In the face of such impossibilities, God encouraged Joshua and said, "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified. Do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." Just as God took care of his servant Joshua, so too, He will take care of each of you. Remember, His plans, His timing, His life.
Knowing the countless hours he spent studying and/or working on some project or another, I know how hard he worked to get here. Sidenote: It was hot. And if you know Josh, he HATES hot. It's the one thing that can truly put him in a bad mood. :) He hung in there though.
He was up to his eyes in leis. It was hilarious and a bit much. :) He's got a lot of love from his fam in hawaii.
I feel lucky that I was able to celebrate with him.
As for seasons...It seems surreal that the season of undergrad has ended for him. He has lots of plans to work and go back to school... but for now we can celebrate the past four years and where God has brought him.
For many, it seems like the transition from school to work is daunting. Finding a job...finding the right job is frustrating. But Josh, and the many others in the same season of life can hold to the promises from God, "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart." Jeremiah 29:11
After Moses died, Joshua must have felt a huge overwhelming responsibility of caring for the Israelites. In the face of such impossibilities, God encouraged Joshua and said, "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified. Do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." Just as God took care of his servant Joshua, so too, He will take care of each of you. Remember, His plans, His timing, His life.
Monday, April 28, 2008
Family Nuptials
Why is it that the only time we visit distant relatives is when a marriage or death occurs?
This past weekend the four Miyabe's packed up and flew Southeast into Pensacola, FL. for our cousin Jereme's wedding. It was more of a Willis family reunion as all cousins ( + girlfriends) auntie's and uncle's came out in support. It was fun, quick, and beautiful. Here are a few highlights:
It was short and tiring, but completely worth it. Note to self: Never have a beach wedding... :p
This past weekend the four Miyabe's packed up and flew Southeast into Pensacola, FL. for our cousin Jereme's wedding. It was more of a Willis family reunion as all cousins ( + girlfriends) auntie's and uncle's came out in support. It was fun, quick, and beautiful. Here are a few highlights:
Welcome to the South...Read what's happening on the 24th closely.
Flounders and Family!
My favorite. What would I do without her?
Private beach. Only grannies and their grandbabies were there. It was great.
Jereme and TK's wedding
It was short and tiring, but completely worth it. Note to self: Never have a beach wedding... :p
Monday, March 24, 2008
Finally, something Bill and I agree on
Okay, last Bill Simmons quote before I stop forever:
On Thursday, I broke my longstanding "Never drive to Anaheim for any reason" rule to catch four first-round games with my friend Lewis. Anaheim might only be 35 miles from L.A., but it usually takes between two and five hours to get there thanks to a hideous deathtrap called the "5," the interstate everyone is forced to take from Los Angeles when you're driving to Disneyland, Angels games, Ducks games, Commerce Casino or the Center of Hell. You couldn't even call it "traffic" on the I-5. It's more like a meandering, overheated crawl, only with the remnants of major accidents every two or three miles and the added bonus that a truck might just decide to drive over your car. Remember the abandoned, bomb-infested highway that Snake Plissken navigated at the end of "Escape From New York"? That highway was less dangerous and more scenic than the I-5. I hate the I-5. Have I mentioned that I hate the I-5?
Hope you're having a hoot about this. If you live off the 5, I'm sorry. Not sorry for the comment, but sorry because you live off the 5.
On Thursday, I broke my longstanding "Never drive to Anaheim for any reason" rule to catch four first-round games with my friend Lewis. Anaheim might only be 35 miles from L.A., but it usually takes between two and five hours to get there thanks to a hideous deathtrap called the "5," the interstate everyone is forced to take from Los Angeles when you're driving to Disneyland, Angels games, Ducks games, Commerce Casino or the Center of Hell. You couldn't even call it "traffic" on the I-5. It's more like a meandering, overheated crawl, only with the remnants of major accidents every two or three miles and the added bonus that a truck might just decide to drive over your car. Remember the abandoned, bomb-infested highway that Snake Plissken navigated at the end of "Escape From New York"? That highway was less dangerous and more scenic than the I-5. I hate the I-5. Have I mentioned that I hate the I-5?
Hope you're having a hoot about this. If you live off the 5, I'm sorry. Not sorry for the comment, but sorry because you live off the 5.
Sports Gal Rocks!
Josh's all time favorite sports columnist is Bill Simmons, of ESPN. He'll tell you that he's been a fan since before he moved up in the world and got first page on ESPN.com. If Josh isn't doing something for me, sleeping, studying, or working on his toned muskles, he's spending time with Bill. At first I found myself a little slighted that my opinion didn't usurp the next paragraph's content. But I'm learning to pick my battles.
In my futile quest to completely understand & be apart of everything Josh loves (some of you may know my #1 goal of all time), I have recently attempted to read up on Bill. Unfortunately I was so lost after the first three words I nearly gave up, until I read this:
http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/page2/story?page=simmons/080318
the most AWESOME part of the ENTIRE blog was the Editor's Note, at the top. To all you women trying to identify with your man on some level when it comes to sports...this is for you!
In my futile quest to completely understand & be apart of everything Josh loves (some of you may know my #1 goal of all time), I have recently attempted to read up on Bill. Unfortunately I was so lost after the first three words I nearly gave up, until I read this:
http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/page2/story?page=simmons/080318
the most AWESOME part of the ENTIRE blog was the Editor's Note, at the top. To all you women trying to identify with your man on some level when it comes to sports...this is for you!
Monday, March 3, 2008
26.2
I will never forget Sunday, March 2,2008 because it was the day that Josh and I ran the Los Angeles Marathon.
A few thoughts:
1. Finishing
I couldn't believe we finished. 7 hours! During our lax training (to say the least) in the months leading up to the Marathon we had only run a total of 12 miles ONCE. the training schedule has you training to 20 miles. Needless to say our expectations for ourselves was pretty low. We did pretty well actually...we finished. :0)
2. The Strategy
We decided to run to the mile markers (every mile had a water station which had port-a-potties, gatorade, water, and certain ones had first aid stations), walk through all the congestion, and then run. It actually worked pretty well. That strategy took us to Mile 21...and then my body shut down. My knees and feet were in so much pain I think I actually shed a tear at mile 24...I didn't think I could finish. My partner didn't let me quit. We ran the last mile and crossed together.
3. The Route
The Route took us through Universal, Beverly Hills, Compton, USC, the Coliseum, East LA, and ended in Downtown. It was neat to see the city through the eyes of a runner on a closed course. The city has some areas that need cleaning and others that are beautiful...You wonder about the quality of life from people who only live two blocks away...one in a mansion on clean streets, the other sharing an apartment with 6 other people. LA is so diverse, different, and imperfect. It's not cookie cutter like Orange County or average like the Valley. It's eclectic, filled with so many unique people and cultures and it's absolutely beautiful.
4. The People
The biggest surprise about the entire Marathon was the support from the community. The entire course was filled with random people cheering on people they didn't even know. Strangers with handmade signs that said, "Keep running! You can do it!" ...the people with water stations set up in front of their houses, the one man bands that came out to play music for you while you ran, the many bands, the praise team, the traditionally clothed Korean women clapping to the rap station set up next door, the many volunteers at the water stations, the people handing you hand cut oranges, bananas, and pretzels, and the many people who didn't even know you-encouraging and helping you along...It was unbelievable. I have never seen LA like that before and it was utterly amazing.
5. The Memories
I will never forget the "Students Run LA", the Veteran going the whole way with two American flags, the girl who, on her back, had a picture of a man and a sign that said, "For my dad", the pain, mom and blane for finding us and providing encouragement and much needed nourishment, the two older ladies from Georgia (who I met waiting for a bathroom to open up), who came for their very first marathon, and most of all Josh, for being the best encourager, running partner, high five pal at every mile, and teammate that I have ever had.
For everyone who thinks they can't run the Marathon, let me encourage you. More than half of the people there weren't in the best shape and in their 20's. The people were people...just like you and I. I would guess that half of the people walked. It's worth it...to be in our community, and to see the love from random strangers. It gives you hope that Jesus is alive and real in Los Angeles...and that there is still an abundance of good all around.
Go For It!
The beginning...
Here we go...
We did it!!!
Thanks guys!
A few thoughts:
1. Finishing
I couldn't believe we finished. 7 hours! During our lax training (to say the least) in the months leading up to the Marathon we had only run a total of 12 miles ONCE. the training schedule has you training to 20 miles. Needless to say our expectations for ourselves was pretty low. We did pretty well actually...we finished. :0)
2. The Strategy
We decided to run to the mile markers (every mile had a water station which had port-a-potties, gatorade, water, and certain ones had first aid stations), walk through all the congestion, and then run. It actually worked pretty well. That strategy took us to Mile 21...and then my body shut down. My knees and feet were in so much pain I think I actually shed a tear at mile 24...I didn't think I could finish. My partner didn't let me quit. We ran the last mile and crossed together.
3. The Route
The Route took us through Universal, Beverly Hills, Compton, USC, the Coliseum, East LA, and ended in Downtown. It was neat to see the city through the eyes of a runner on a closed course. The city has some areas that need cleaning and others that are beautiful...You wonder about the quality of life from people who only live two blocks away...one in a mansion on clean streets, the other sharing an apartment with 6 other people. LA is so diverse, different, and imperfect. It's not cookie cutter like Orange County or average like the Valley. It's eclectic, filled with so many unique people and cultures and it's absolutely beautiful.
4. The People
The biggest surprise about the entire Marathon was the support from the community. The entire course was filled with random people cheering on people they didn't even know. Strangers with handmade signs that said, "Keep running! You can do it!" ...the people with water stations set up in front of their houses, the one man bands that came out to play music for you while you ran, the many bands, the praise team, the traditionally clothed Korean women clapping to the rap station set up next door, the many volunteers at the water stations, the people handing you hand cut oranges, bananas, and pretzels, and the many people who didn't even know you-encouraging and helping you along...It was unbelievable. I have never seen LA like that before and it was utterly amazing.
5. The Memories
I will never forget the "Students Run LA", the Veteran going the whole way with two American flags, the girl who, on her back, had a picture of a man and a sign that said, "For my dad", the pain, mom and blane for finding us and providing encouragement and much needed nourishment, the two older ladies from Georgia (who I met waiting for a bathroom to open up), who came for their very first marathon, and most of all Josh, for being the best encourager, running partner, high five pal at every mile, and teammate that I have ever had.
For everyone who thinks they can't run the Marathon, let me encourage you. More than half of the people there weren't in the best shape and in their 20's. The people were people...just like you and I. I would guess that half of the people walked. It's worth it...to be in our community, and to see the love from random strangers. It gives you hope that Jesus is alive and real in Los Angeles...and that there is still an abundance of good all around.
Go For It!
The beginning...
Here we go...
We did it!!!
Thanks guys!Wednesday, January 2, 2008
Thailand 2007
With the help of my trusty BFF's A and Melis, I have published a book detailing our short term missions trip to Thailand in November 2007. All proceeds go to Zoe International. Check it out!
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