The Pim and Bear Report

First

2011-04-09T16:16:00.002-05:00

I'm not a man that deals well with a first. The first time I flew time stood still while my stomach felt the need to create art through the expression of my last meal. My expectation of pain before my first tattoo sent my body into hyper-drive. Twenty minutes under the gun and those expectations were flushed out. They fashioned a new whiter version of me. The tattoo artist generously gave me a soda to increase my bodies sugar levels. Seriously, who needs a soda just to get a simple tattoo?

Recently I've encountered a new first that has overshadowed my first of the past. I allowed myself to get comfortable in the world created by a Christian education institution. Let me explain this. I gratuated from Lincoln Christian University almost two years ago this coming summer. This was a place that filled my plate spiritually and challenged my critical thinking while keeping me safely stacked away inside a Christian community. Now for the first time I'm realizing the challenge of continued growth through self-education. School provided substance for life and it came without a great effort on my behalf. I was provided with knowledge, not necessarily seeking that knowledge without assistance. This is both exciting and terrifying at the same time. For months I really did not know how to react to this new conundrum but through reflection and blessed experiences I've come to a conclusion on my new first that will hopefully make this experiences outcome a little better than my previous stories.

God placed me in a structured learning environment to prepare me for the unstructured classroom found in what we call life. This classroom is filled with insurmountable knowledge in a variety of places. If you look close enough you can see God teaching in all things at all times. The faces of the professors are different now. They come in different shapes and sizes. Lessons are being prepared by co-workers, friends, fiances, and children. I think i misspoke when I said that I've entered a non-structured classroom. It's still structured but in a different way. School was structured by man but life is structured by the creator.

I remember the first time I rode a bike on two wheels. I left the dinner table went outside and started riding. In the beginning I struggled but through discipline i grew in my ability to just go. God has already provided my means of new education. It's up to me to trust and just go.

Feeling The Pull

2010-05-18T13:48:00.000-05:00

Well, I just graduated. That was big. I began to listen to this song called Feeling the Pull by The Swell Season and realized I am too feeling the pull. I feel the pull to something greater. I know that nothing spiritually, emotionally, socially, or anything of that sort changed when I turned the tassel with my classmates, but at the same time it did. I want to start life. It's a sad feeling, realizing that you have to grow up. And there is always a part of me that will never be a grown up. That's the way I like it. But I feel the pull. The pull towards love, towards truth, towards life. And at the same time, I feel small against the big sky. Love, truth, life drags us towards our goals. Embrace the pulling. I am.

Love you.
PIM

I sit here.

2010-05-13T00:17:00.002-05:00

Sometimes I overthink my existence. This mainly takes place when I'm attempting to fall asleep. My mind likes to kick into overdrive at the worst times. This is something I wrote when i was younger about that.

I sit here with an unlit cigarette in my mouth. The butt dangles from the bottom of my lip while I try to impress my friends that so inadequately cant do the same trick. This is a trademark smokers move, but what is really happening inside the smokers mind. Things are starting to form. New worlds are being fashioned like a second creation. I like to think of it as motionless time travel. The brain acts as the machine running the show. It makes numerous stops over a short period of time. Some people would consider this daydreaming, but to me its not. The reality is that all the stops made on this trip will happen in the future. Every passing moment is a new adventure that can only be stopped through pure will power, sometimes that's not even enough to stop the furious mechanism. The couch where I lay my head to rest looks more and more irresistible but that becomes a flame to the fire. My eyes close and depart from the comfort zone that took all day to create. I'm already becoming consumed with the thoughts that keep me awake at night. Thoughts of a house, car, job, wife, children, mortgage, insurance, friends, and God fuel the engine. I think to myself. and wake up.

Random Bank Thought

2010-05-06T23:56:00.002-05:00

It's funny how working for a bank feels a lot like working for a dysfunctional Church. Growth for the sake of growth somehow equals success. When did numbers become the standard by which success is measured? When did character and caring exit stage right only to be replaced by delusional kindness and self-glorification? I sat in on a routine morning meeting today where we set goals for our current banking day. Not once in the meeting did I hear any encouragement focused on the employees in attendance, not once did I hear a single statement about caring for the customer, and not a single word was uttered about being ourselves in the workplace. I did listen to a speech of childish discipline. Warning after warning came and went as the employees daydreamed of being on another planet where there was something of substance for their minds to grab on to. The point of these meetings are to grow the number of checking accounts the bank owns. If numbers are up that means the bank makes more money. We accomplish this goal by being as completely fabricated as possible. We try hoke ideas to open new accounts so the government can see what appears to be growth. In actuality it is structural failure. It is a failure because the new accounts we acquire are irresponsible/high-risk customers. These customers actually end up hurting the bank more than helping because they have no foundation on which to stand. A lack of foundation is often the source of a failed business and a failed Church. Churches that seek numbers to be seen as successful in the eyes of the world fail to bare fruit for the Kingdom of God because their leadership has lost focus on what it means to create disciples(people that follow something). The bank falls short in the same area. Leadership looks past individual growth and forgets about restoring and resurrecting its own internal structure. If they focused more on building up the already existing body they would see more results because employees would be happy working for their company. A happy employee equals a more successful employee. Very few businesses realize that taking care of their employees actually saves their industry. The same holds true for the Church. The more a Church disciples its members the more lives those members are going to change. It all starts with leadership. A leader must realize that they are an equal with their followers. This is a difficult concept for most of the world. It is difficult because pride and power are taken out of the leadership equation. It is a concept that requires humility and servant hood. After working at the bank for almost two years I've realized the importance of leaders that have a stable foundation. A stable foundation can only be created when we rid our self-praising attitudes from ourselves. A stable foundation can only be created when we become humble servants. I want to be a humble servant wherever God chooses to place me for His service. We will always fall short of perfection but perfection is not our goal. Our goal is to be caring people of character. Christ takes care of the perfection. Once we realize our true goal is to be Christ-like we can start to change the business world along with the Church.

Bear

Turn Around, Bright Eyes...

2010-05-06T23:29:00.002-05:00

Well, Bear disagrees that GaGa is brilliant. "A House Divided Will Not Stand". PolarBear (Hannah, in case you forgot), teach him this lesson.

Anyway. Onto some thoughts.

You ever been walking down the road, turn around, and look at where you were? The terrain you crossed? Maybe just realize what it took you to get there?

I did that tonight.

What do Nelly, The St. Lunatics, Tupac, Juvenile, Manny Fre$h, "The No Limit Soldiers", Bone Thugs -N- Harmony, and Dre have in common? Other than the obvious (they are not white and are rappers), each one was a part of my past. More specifically, junior high and high school. For about an hour I reminisced with a couple friends about how much we loved those jams. It brought among more conversations of times past. Good and bad memories. Times that we were in funks. Top moments in our lives. Pretty much the conversation that teaches you more about a person than any other. It brought me to one story.

It was the morning of a December day. I went to bed way too late that night (and one of the craziest things ever happened to me, but that's for a different day). Naturally, I wanted to sleep in. A phone call woke me up that morning. It was my best friend. Not weird for him to call me that early...he did that often to prove to me that he was more responsible than I at that point in our lives. Jobs in high school are overrated. Tone of his voice, way different than usual. He had called to tell me that my girlfriend's dad died. As I type this, I can vividly remember the way I felt. The lack of response. Holding the phone in one hand, as I bent over feeling as though I was going to throw up everywhere. Shaking. I still get that feeling. Every. Time. I remember driving through the remains of the blizzard that had happened the night before to get to her house. The entire time, praying that this was a joke. Like I was getting punk'd. It wasn't until I made the right turn onto Valley View Drive and saw the cop cars that it HIT me. This was reality. I remember walking into the house. There's not a whole lot that I regret in my life. For I have seen good come into a lot of my mistakes. I saw my girlfriend when entering the house. I gave her a half hug. I don't know why. She probably didn't even notice it. But it bugs me. One of the biggest regrets of my life. I'm not sure why I remember that. Why I didn't fully embrace her, I am not sure. But I always look back and wish I had. Although, the showing of community that poured in that house that day was unbelievable, it was one of the worst days of my life. At one point, me and my best friend and girlfriend were laying on a kitchen floor, bawling. Like...river of tears. Confused, pissed, frustrated, sad...beyond sad. One of the worst days of my life. The entire day, I will never forget. I will never forget the food that was brought by friends. I will never forget being in the room at the end of the night sitting with friends and family. I will never forget her mom's words. "We are going to be OK." I will never forget this day. The way it changed everything.

It changed me. For the good. It changed my view of everything. It rocked my world. It made me question my worldview. And through the questioning, an eventual strength that was greater than before. It taught me how to get outside of myself. It taught me compassion. It taught me how to love practically. It brought all of us together. In a weird way, we all knew that there would be a connection, one that would not leave us soon. Looking back at that day, it seems like another life, another world, thousands of years ago. I still love my ex-girlfriend. Obviously not in the way that I did back then. And even if I would never talk to her again, we will always be connected because of that day. All of us. And how it changed us. She has a boyfriend now and is very happy, and I am very happy for both of them. If you would have asked me back then when we broke up, I would have said it was the worst thing that could happen. However, it became clear that it was the best thing that could have happened to either of us. Despite our growth that we experienced, whenever my mind goes to that day, I wish he was still here. He was a great man. Even in the brief period of time, I learned a lot from that man. But that December day. That day is something that I will always remember. Always. Because I loved that family with all my heart. And I always will.

You ever been walking down the road, turn around, and look at where you were? The terrain you crossed? Maybe just realize what it took you to get there? Because more than likely it is a painful, treacherous road. One that often times does not make sense. In the end it seems, we are better for it.

Sometimes, the best thing we can do...is turn around, and look.

love,
pim

Lady GaGa

2010-05-06T17:50:00.001-05:00

She's Brilliant. That's all.

I'll post later.

pim

A Constant Reminder

2010-05-03T21:41:00.003-05:00

It's good to be back along with Pim once again. I miss that beast of a man more and more everyday. Well lets get started. I wrote this awhile back and would like to share it....so enjoy.

I doubt, I worry, I procrastinate, I am lazy, I lose focus, I lack faith, I am jealousy, I carry other idols, I am needy, I am materialism, I am not genuine, I smile to portray something I'm not, I stay quite when I should speak up, I hold emotions in, I let my attitude dictate others, I am horny, I am lust, I am imprisoned by flesh, I am rude, i am selfishness, I forget the power of His Spirit, I forget to pray, I am routine, I shy away from confrontation, I complain, I do not listen, I do not speak what is on my mind, Satan often offers me advice......

In Response..

I am blessed with two loving parents, a loving brother and sister-in-law, friends that cannot and will not be replaced, a girlfriend that shares her love with me, a house to live in, a car to drive, knowledge at my fingertips, a university that provides a great education, clothes that keep me warm, food that provides me with nutrition, money to give, a bed to sleep in... all of this just because of a cross. All i can do is share that with others.

I AM A SINNER SAVED BY GRACE.

We're Back

2010-05-01T03:38:00.002-05:00

We're back. Again. And this time for good. It has come to our attention that we really enjoyed doing this thing, and for some reason (life, girlfriends...Cole, not me...and others things) we just got off a rhythm of it. We are hoping that doesn't happen again. There are 2 main reasons we come back. NUMBER 1. Although, not many read it, I feel like there are times it is more for us than it is for anyone else. I hope that many do read it, and continue to help us form our opinions on things. Quite honestly, sometimes it just feels good to know that there are others out there that feel the same way that we do. I said it in the very first post a couple years back. We hope that this is a time where you can come and just be real. Be honest with yourself, because that's what we hope to accomplish through this. It is amazing to me looking back because Cole and I have grown up so much since then, and some of our ideals, thoughts, and opinions might have changed (I still hate Valentine's Day). Even with that said, we hope this this will be a real spot. Life very rarely makes real sense, and one thing is for sure, we are all in this predicament together. So let's have some fun! Blogging is kind of retarded if you don't have anyone to share it with. So I want to plug a couple for you to read. On the side, you can see the ones that we appreciate. Also, because I am too lazy to update it right now, you should look into these.

wilsonwayoflife.wordpress.com - Kyle and Lil Wilson
calebandchristie.wordpress.com - Caleb and Christie Wright
theplumiers.wordpress.com - Jordan and Sammy Plumier
brendonfoulke.com (man he's arrogant, who has a website of their name)

If you want your name on the list, and we don't already follow you...or anything like that. Just Comment it. We'll post it. Cole and I love all you guys very much, and the greatest thing we could ever do is help everyone stay connected with each other.

NUMBER 2. The more and more I grow up, the more and more I am realizing that things will never be the same. I graduate with a lot of good friends in less than a month. We are growing up. That sucks. It means, a lot less seeing each other, getting in the normal life cycle and just becoming busy, and priority changing. As much as I do not want that to happen it is. So in my view, this is the way to keep up with each other. Tonight I got to talk to my friend until about 4 AM on his balcony about how awesome our group of friends were. We got into talking about how we are so close, we do not even have to tell each other how we feel because we all just know. That being said, I understand we do not talk as often as we used to, or even should. Let these little blogs be a help and a reminder of what we all mean to each other. I know the phrase is beaten like a dead horse, but let's do life together. This is our way of edifying, helping, and encouraging one another. And for the love of all that is Holy, let's pray that Serb doesn't start a blog...

I love you guys.

Lama.

Cole Agrees.

I Think.

Anger and Grace

2009-12-02T11:21:00.002-06:00

He(God) hated evil/sin so much that He placed it all on the shoulders of His son so that grace and mercy may be abundant in leading to life thereafter with Him. Author Timothy J. Stoner writes how grace and mercy would not exist without anger. How true it is that God is an angry God but His anger is not fashioned in human hatred. His anger is just, shining through because of His overarching love for mankind. His anger stems from complete separateness. It targets the sex offenders, murderers, kidnappers, rapist, idol worshipers, child abusers, corporate abusers, false teachers, and the list goes on. To be more specific.....He hates sin. It's difficult because of pride, but i must throw myself in with the people that have these such titles. Now enter grace that is so far from deserving. Somehow repeated failures lead to repeated mercies. Once again God defies logic. Now enter the cross. The cross is where Gods love and hate come together to form an ultimate triumphal love. Gods anger is not gone, it is broke by the broken body of Christ. I'm blessed to have a God with such loving anger because i know He is going to fight for me. In conclusion i will fight for Him.

Something

2009-08-27T00:23:00.003-05:00

Recently in our community a child passed away because of head trauma. The death hit close to home with one of my work associates. Our employees were devastated to hear the news. It was in that devastation that i was asked a very difficult question. One of my superiors questioned why God allowed the passing to take place. She asked me my thoughts. I gave the best answer that i could in the moment but wish i had more time to talk to her personally about the subject. I reflected for some time after i encountered the question and came up with something i would like to share. In moments of death, especially accidental deaths like this one, my faith is God is strengthened in a strange way. To me it almost enhances the truth of the word of God. God created something perfect and is working His way back to that perfection through His Spirit and through His Son. I recently read a devotional about parents grief. It talked about how there is no greater suffering than losing a child. At the time i thought the devotional meant nothing to me because i found the application to be difficult. Now i realize that in Gods perfect plan he issued on Himself the greatest suffering a parent could endure. God mapped out the suffering and brutal death of His only child so that sinners like me could be forever with Him. God gave us free will for a reason. He gave us the responsibility to make choices. God is in control but does not control. Without the ability to make free choices we lose the ability to love.... God is Love. Love requires faith. God requires both.

Encourage

2009-08-17T11:06:00.003-05:00

Sometimes i find myself in places of rest surrounded by people that know how to encourage. This past weekend i stumbled upon one of those places. It is in these places that i begin to notice little things that God has done in my life. I walk away from experiences like this weekend with a greater since of the reality of God. It makes me wonder why Christians are not encouraging each other all of the time. Encouragement leads to courage. It is courage that comes from our hearts that gives us the ability to start taking small steps towards greater things for our creators kingdom. I don't know about you, but i want that kind of courage.

The Last Word Is Rejoice

2009-08-13T22:12:00.000-05:00

How will I drink from that stream
How will my heart sing your praise
How will I lay down in green grass fields
When my soul is so afraid to

Rejoice.

Wait Out the Days

2009-07-31T20:38:00.002-05:00

"Often we speak about love as if it were a feeling. But if we wait for a feeling of love before loving, we may never learn to love well"- Henri Nouwen. The idea of love being an action is essential to the life of a believer. As human beings we want to be loved. To experience love we must attempt to love first. It is difficult and frustrating for me to find ways to portray love in some of my surroundings. Love can show up in the minuscule things of life. 1 Peter 4:8-9 says, "Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers a multitude of sins. Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling." I remember this verse because of the difficulty of its command. Verse 9 uses the term grumbling which is the same word used to describe what the Israelites were doing when with Moses (Exodus 16:8). The Israelite people grumbled to a God that was giving them food to eat miraculously. This is just one example of how difficult it is to love at all times but at the same time is a great example of God breaking the rules of human love. God loves us even when we do not have the experience of loving Him first. This is true love, a love that makes us His beloved.

Love Each Other Deeply
Bear

Reinventing Your Impact

2009-04-20T17:49:00.001-05:00

"Wherever you go preach the gospel, only when necessary use words" ~ St. Francis of Assisi.

All of life's secrets are in your branches

2009-03-19T11:31:00.004-05:00

Last night i came to the realization that in a few short months i will be considered on my own. The thought hit me while listening to a good friend, that finds himself in a similar position, speak on the subject of peace. I really enjoyed what he shared, partially because he did a very good job communicating the subject and more importantly because his words connected to my current situation. I wouldn't consider this time in my life a storm but i would say that the waves are growing and becoming a concern. The past few days these thoughts have been growing heavy on my heart and peace has been something that i have often neglected. I know where my peace comes from and i know that i have accepted the peace given to me through my Savior Jesus Christ. The problem comes when i forget to use His peace. Today i have been able to grasp a portion of this peace and accept it for what it is. The peace that i found did not wipe away my current problem, my current homework situation, or my constant thoughts concerning the future. The peace that i found granted me knowledge. Nothing in the past, present, or future can take away the peace presented to me on the cross. The story of the cross allows me to ultimately know that none of these aforementioned things will separate me from an eternity with the Savior. I've also come to the conclusion that i do not like the idea of being considered on my own. I think I'm the furthest I've ever been from being on my own. I have a group of friends that constantly lifts my spirits. I have a family that truly cares for me. I have a girlfriend that is unbelievable. I have a God that is forever with me and forever loving. The only thing left for me to do now is fall on my knees.

Peace and Love
Bear

Magical Mystery Tour

2009-03-15T01:04:00.003-05:00

Well. We are back (enter frown face here). It was a crazy trip. One with many memories too crazy to list all on here. All I will say is it was a great last spring break. I could have never guessed all the goodness that it was. It was a great reminder that everyday has something new that we know nothing about. Our life is a Magical Mystery Tour. What does tomorrow have in store for us?

Love you guys.

PIM

Yesterday

2009-03-14T01:20:00.003-05:00

Yesterday all my troubles seemed so far away... Oh yes i believe in yesterday. Today we leave for home. Tomorrow we seek a new beginning. Dallas has left us with a sweet taste in our mouths. It's our last spring break and it ended well. One could ask for no more than good time being spent with friends and family dancing the night away under the lights of a unknown lounge. Today was a good day. Today completed the journey. Tomorrow begins a new journey back to the homeland, but i still believe in yesterday. The last few days will not be forgotten. I will miss the people that have traveled this journey with us. I will miss the homes that resemble the OC. I will miss the kid that talks so much yet says so little. I will miss it. Yes, i will miss yesterday. From Pim and Bear this has been our week. We love you all and hope you all had a good sring break.

Love
Bear

Revolution Number 9

2009-03-12T23:04:00.003-05:00

Today was an excellent day.

-Lifetime Fitness (The Usual)
-Leftover Chili
-Big East Tournament Basketball
-Dallas Stars Hockey Game!

Today I was privileged to see a legend. Mike Modano! He is a boy among men...eh, scratch that. A man among boys. It was incredible! I forgot how much fun hockey games were. This post is in tribute to the Great Mike Modano, Number 9!

Number 9...Number 9...Number 9...Number 9....

This Is Pim. Love Eachother. Be Cool.

Tomorrow Never Knows

2009-03-11T21:21:00.003-05:00

The temp has dropped but hopes still run high. Two days have past and spring break continues to be a break that will go down in history.

Tuesday

Gym routine
Shopping in Dallas
Pot Roast Supper
Movie (the Wrestler)
American Idol

Wednesday

Sleep
Walmart run
Chile dinner
American Idol
Relaxation

Tomorrow never knows what awaits. Tomorrow will be the first hockey game that bear has ever attended. Maybe a fight will break out and add to the excitement. The future also holds a dance with the spirits a top a grand stage of pure enjoyment. What tomorrow holds can only be held in my imagination. What tomorrow holds can only be catagorized as amazing.

Love each other

Bear

Daytripper

2009-03-09T23:13:00.002-05:00

Bear and I have a morning ritual...

8:00 AM- Lifetime Fitness

-Spa
-Suana
-Steamroom
-Shower

The 4 "s's" of wonderful living. It is fantastic

Today, we went to a "baseball game". It is in quotations because we (Mom, Mike, Bear and I) got to the stadium to realize that there was actually no game, and the Rangers were in Arizona playing. I guess you can't always count on sisters for correct information. Anyways, it was a nice daytrip. So we came back and went to the movies with the whole fam and my sister's boyfriend. Cool Dude. We saw "Gran Torino". Cool Movie. We came back and shared a meal together at the table with everyone and it was glorious. This followed by more good conversation by the ole fire pit. Texas is Good. Life is Good. God is definitely Good. More to come as the week progresses.

Be Cool and Love Eachother.

.PIM.

Good Day, Sunshine

2009-03-08T21:03:00.002-05:00

The first day of Texas is coming to an end and what a day it has been.

1. Woke up played cars with the kid.
2. Went to Kohls purchased some clothing.
3. Lifetime fitness filled with steam rooms, hot tubs, and swimming pools.
4. Shops of the Legacy. (In a Jaguar)
5. Cookout with family and friends.
6. Me and PIM defeat old men at pool.
7. Poolside relaxation
8. ?????

I almost feel guilty living this life. I can't even imagine the days to come. This will be Pim and I's last real spring break. It's kinda scary. I'm blessed to have this time with people i love. I'm blessed period.

Bear

The Long And Winding Road...

2009-03-07T22:55:00.002-06:00

754.6
89.43
3
Priceless

Miles it took
Money it cost
People that came (Moses decided to hop in)
Roadtrip with Bear

754.6 Miles later and 89 dollars poorer we have arrived in Dallas, TX. Oklahoma is now my least favorite state. Regardless, we are here and it is an amazing feeling to have a week completely free in around 80 degree weather. We walked into the house to an excited Dominic as he went crazy for the next 3 hours. We ate, played pool with mom and mike, and had wonderful conversation poolside for about an hour. In a completely underexaggerated sense, we are in heaven. It was a long and winding road to get here, but the treachery was worth it. Hmmm, kind of like life. Hope to see you there one day. Keep on trucking down the road.

Until Next Week.

For Bear,

This is PIM. Love Eachother. Be Cool. Happy Spring Break My Friends.

Yep, that's real.

2009-03-04T02:17:00.000-06:00

Sometimes, all you need in life is a pink dolphin.

PIM

Another Travelin' Song

2009-03-03T20:16:00.003-06:00

This winter has gone on for what seems like decades. Springs fresh face is waiting just around the corner. With spring comes relaxation in the form of a break from school (a much needed break). I've been looking forward to this years break like UCONNS womens basketball team looks forward to another NCAA championship (30-0). This year me and PIM will find ourselves bobbing and weaving in the infamous Ali towards our destination of new life found in the land of the bigger and better........Texas. Warm weather, health facilities, and subdivisions that so closely resemble homes seen on MTV's CRIBS await us. This trip has been on my mind for months and it's finally arrived. I look forward to hibernating poolside in the seventy degree weather, i look forward to sleeping for more than six hours a night, and i also look forward to the quality time spent with one of my best good friends. As i reflect on this upcoming break i can see the importance of creating space in our infinitely cluttered lives to sit down and shut up for the sake of rejuvenation. Hopefully this break will re-energize my mind, body, and soul. I see myself exiting this break like Lebron James enters an NBA game. I just hope i can dominate like he does when i return. Pim also owes me a date. I guess this week of pure luxury will count as his date, after all i paid a mighty fine price to spend a night with a dude. It looks like in return i got a week with that very same dude. I look forward to it.

Relax

Bear

P.S. Pray for our Journey

Forgive me

2009-02-28T03:58:00.002-06:00

Please forgive me
If I act a little strange
For I know not what I do.
Feels like lightning running through my veins
Everytime I look at you
Everytime I look at you

It's true. Everytime. Every...single...time. And I don't understand it.

Please forgive me,
PIM

Where Have All The Cowboys Gone?

2009-02-27T03:34:00.002-06:00

Theodore Roosevelt and the Rough Riders. Clint Eastwood. John Wayne. THE DUKE! Even Roy Rogers. Where have all the cowboys gone? Where have the people who are going to do what they say, who have integrity and are going to fight for what they know is right? I must admit to you, I am not always this person. I strive to be. But I am no cowboy. I Wish! I have been "asked" to do a sermon on passion for a gathering of students. This sermon makes me think of cowboys. Whether or not you are a cowboy person or indians kind of person, you must admit...cowboys have passion...a lot of passion! I wonder where they have gone? Where have men in general gone? I heard an amazing quote by Mark Driscoll in his new book, "Porn-Again Christian-a frank discussion on pornography and masturbation". This is what he says. "My desire as a Christian pastor is to see churches raised up as communities of grace ruled by Jesus and led by his gloriously masculine men who work their jobs, eat their meat, drink their beer, romance their wives, study their Bible, and raise their kids in glory and joy (Jer. 29:4–7; Eccl. 9:7–10)." Amen! Now let us be frank. All guys struggle with lust in some aspect. You show me the guy that has never ever struggled with lust in one way or another, I show you a liar. But is it a good question to pose? Where have the good guys, "the cowboys" gone? They are among us. Taking in Scripture, doing what is right no matter what. Showing the world how to live and lead. My friend CRW is the perfect example. He is a cowboy. A cowboy I love. A cowboy I respect and look up to. They are all around, and people who ask this question, just need to look around them. Asking this question, I think is an excuse not to find one. Where have the good guys gone? Wake up. They are here. I am not proclaiming in arrogance to be one, but I know they are here because I am friends with them. Stop asking that question and do something about it if you are really that concerned. The cowboys are here, shooting and forcing evil to shake in its damned (this is not frivolous cursing, but stating what this evil is exactly...damned) boots. BANG BANG! It's not too much to ask for one, but it is too much to ask where they are. I love cowboys. Oh, and since you asked...I am right here.

Love Eachother, Be Cool. Don't prove me wrong...Be A Cowboy!

PIM

How this will end

2009-02-24T22:34:00.001-06:00

Hold your grandmother's bible to your breast
Gonna put it to the test
You wanted it to be blessed
And in your heart
You know it to be true
You know what you gotta do
They all depend on you

And you already know
Yet you already know
How this will end

Of Greetings and Goodbyes

2009-02-20T21:12:00.004-06:00

I'm a big fan of community and today i'm disgusted with what i'm forced to witness in many households across the United States. Memories are becoming a thing of the past within family settings. I'm talking about memories created by being with the ones you love in a atmosphere fashioned to bring about thanksgiving. Something as simple as sitting down and dining with friends and family has become a thing of the past. Sure people still eat together, but eating together and sharing a meal together are two completely different things. A meal brings about special moments, it reminds us of the quality of our lives together. A meal identifies relationships and creates true fellowship. Most important, a meal takes time. Time is something held in high regard in todays world. Time is important. A meal should be important. I love being able to take part in communion around the dinner table. If i know you and i have not had the chance to eat a meal with you please get in contact with me and i'll see what i can do. Can we please make the table a hospitable place again? Can we please use that hospitable place to create beautiful memories with one another?

Have a Meal
Bear

My Back Pages

2009-02-20T11:24:00.000-06:00

Song I'm Into.

PIM

.a simple request.

2009-02-17T22:33:00.004-06:00

Tonight was a good night. The context of this Tuesday comes during a week where I have no classes. Our basketball team won their 13th straight game, making them 16-11. This is good news because if they win 17, Bear has to grow out a mustache for an entire week. He looks like your creepy uncle when sporting a mustache. Enough said. One of my greatest friends got awarded a game ball in the beginning of the game for scoring 1000 points in his career. Seeing his face when he found out (coach kept it a secret from him) brought incredible amounts of joy to me. I then was able to watch American Idol with some good friends, giving what is our obvious expert opinion on singing to each other. Quote of the night from American Idol: "Boy you slayed it dude, WHAT?!" -Randy Jackson. Tonight was a good night. Maybe to you it doesn't seem like a very good night because it was simple. But the good thing about simplicity is that it is not complex. Do we ever sit back and think about the simple things? We have a society that knows complexity. People are obsessed with figuring the most complex, intricate notions, which explains all of the graduate school scholars that are sitting in coffee shops reading their books that I will never understand. That is awesome for them. Society needs them, desperately...especially to explain stuff to stupid people like me. For a while now I have been an advocate of simplicity in this society of complexity. I read this book titled "Cold Tangerines" by Shauna Niequist last year. The umbrella over all of her thoughts, words, and chapters in the book was to take refuge in the simple things in life. Loved the book. It inspired me to do just that. There are many days that I forget to do that. Today is not one of those days. My simple request is for you to have one of those days.

This is Pim. Love Eachother. Be Cool.

Do You Like American Music?

2009-02-17T01:10:00.001-06:00

I would like to start off by commending my partner in crime for writing a wonderful post on Valentines Day. I enjoyed my V-day very much and the post just made it that much better. Lately i've been listening to so much music. I believe that music proves the existence of God. One of my favorite quotes of all time comes from Mr. Kurt Vonnegut. Vonnegut stated, "Music is, to me, proof of the existence of God". Some people believe that Christian/Worship music is the only true music that can be used to glorify our creator or to feel an emotional attachment to Him. I have a confession to make, I feel Gods presence in all music and often times worship through the composition created by nonbelievers. I appreciate the God given talent that these singer and song writers use to the best of their abilities. To be honest sometimes i get goose-bumps. Sometimes music is so beautiful it almost becomes impossible to deny the nature of God inside of it. Music also brings us together. Just today i found myself in a car with Pim listening to a Pim and Bear favorite and in that moment i think we both were able to appreciate the relationship building melodies that flowed from the car stereo. It was in that moment that i worshiped my creator. I love my life and i love music. I will end with one important statement. Sometimes we all need to listen to Damien Rice.

Bear

She's Always Dressed In White...She's Like An Angel And She Burns My Eyes...

2009-02-15T01:36:00.002-06:00

Ah, the long awaited Valentines Day. Bear was so courteous to let me write this blog on this special day yet again. This is probably because he has a beautiful girl, who I truly respect, and I could not be happier for them as they are together and well. While I, on the other hand, am one year later...single...drowning in a pool of my pathetic existence as a platonic lover to all I come in contact. (OK, that is a little dramatic, but it is the nature of this day). If you can remember from last year, you know that I hate this day, and as I explained last year it is not because I am single, but for more on that see the post "Snapple" from last year. As you probably expect, I am going to take about 300 or so words on this to explain my deep loathing for this holiday. I offer a curveball. You swung and miss. Didn't see it coming. I wish to commend this day. Although I stick to my notions that I had last year, I have found some light at the end of my proverbial Valentines Day hate tunnel. It came around last night when Bear was creating his scavenger hunt for his girl (who I am going to so lovingly call "polar bear" from now on). I was helping him with some odds and ends, and I realized...look how happy all of my friends are. My best friend is married, my other good friend is on his way, my other good friend is on his way still. I was just in a wedding with another good friend who is now on his internship...happy...married. Bear came out of his 23 year hibernation and is so happy. Love and relationship is all around me. Instead of being pissed off about it, I turn a new leaf. Call it a Valentine's Day resolution, if you will. I am happy for them, and I am happy that they had the opportunity to celebrate it with their significant others. I know this holiday is just a reminder to all us single people that life sucks, but come on...what do we really have to complain about? The economy? That's a copout. I know the girl is coming sometime. And for the girls, the guy is coming sometime. Don't lose faith. She/He will be dressed in white. Like an angel. Burning our eyes. Until then, we get to be happy for the people that we love around us, because their white dressed angel, burning their eyes was found. So here's to all the lovers! HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY! I hope it finds you pure, happy, and gracious for what you have!

This is Pim. Love Eachother. Be Cool. Happy Valentine's Day Everyone!

I always believed in futures

2009-02-12T17:51:00.002-06:00

I apologize for the vast amount of time that has past since my last interaction with this blog. Activities seem to be increasing while time continues to decrease. Sometimes i wish i were Zack Morris and at certain points in the day i could call a timeout to gather my thoughts and reflect on things throughout the day. Lately i've been concentrating on the future. The Future seems to be looking brighter and brighter as it comes closer and closer. The weeks ensuing include trips to Indiana, Texas, and Massachusetts. These trips will be filled with new relationships as well as rekindled old ones. One trip includes an introduction to unknown parental territory that will certainly be exciting and interesting. In all of these future events i want to continue to strive to achieve my new years goal of good character. New situations offer new challenges and with new challenges comes growth and wisdom. I pray that in these new situations i can become selfless and enjoy fellowship with the people i surround myself with. In all things i hope and pray that Christ will be present and active. Things in life have been getting better and better recently and for that i thank my Creator everyday for allowing me to be where i am now. I think there might be something behind this character idea so I'm going to continue to work my hardest at shaping a character worth replicating. I hope these thoughts are in some way constructive and uplifting. Peace be with whomever reads this.

Love
Bear

Wii are so good.

2009-01-16T03:13:00.002-06:00

Well, I have my own place now. Kinda. I am rooming with a good friend, in an apartment that is totally rad. I officially only have class on one day in the week and on that one day it only occupies two and a half hours of my schedule. Are you kidding me? I get to live this life. There is much joy floating about because the more I live and experience life, the more life-long relationships I see forming. I have a "home" group, a "college" group, and a "Nashville group". Along with this amazing trifecta of relational possibilities, I also have a Wii. Kinda. If you are around Tuesday nights, come out and bowl! We will create a Mii for you and everything. And Guitar Hero World Tour could not be any better with D, K, and J, and the not-yet-released, The Liptak- Three Apartment Band. I just returned from a short retreat with some amazing old friends in the middle of a wood. It is these little reminders in life that never get worn out. It is like that pair of boxers or maybe socks you have that you keep around, even though they clearly need to be thrown in a dumpster. All these situations could be passed off as "just life". But it is not "just life". It is clearly a blessing. Let us not take this life for granted, nor any little moment that comes into our vision. I am beginning to realize that this is my last time to be a "kid". Real World, Real Life Challenge is coming up incredibly quick. And if you are not in this situation right now, you will be. I am nostalgic. I yearn for those memories of jr. high, high school, when anything went. What I really need to realize is "the past is told by those who win, what matters is what hasn't been." At the end of this day, the past nor the future really take precedence to me right now. It is the now that I desire to live in. I want to make memories now that one day I can look back on and be nostalgic. I heard this quote. "Sometimes a moment stuns us as it happens, and we know that this instant is more than a fleeting image. We know that this moment, every part of it, will live on forever." What more could you want but a day, a week, a month, a year made up of those very moments that live on forever. I will tell you something about my life. Me and my friends, Wii are so good. I am going to make those moments, make those memories. I urge you to do the same.

This is Pim. Love Eachother. Be Cool. Let's Make A Memory!

So this is the New Year

2009-01-06T12:12:00.003-06:00

It's 2009 and some new canvasses are being created on the Pim and Bear home front. It's a year of new beginnings and interesting journeys. It's a year that will see the end of formal education and the beginning of real life learning. It's a year that has already welcomed new relationships and plans on growing already strong friendships. It's a year that started off with resolutions that if held up will eventually make us stronger. I've made some resolutions and i hope to keep them. I want this year to be a year of openness. I want to strive to be a lover of all people. To assist me with this goal i have decided that i need to be in scripture more often than i am now. Not only do i want to be a lover of all people but i also want to become more loving in the relationships that i currently cherish. I want to be a better brother, son, friend, person, and most of all follower of Christ. I challenge anyone who reads this to reach for the same goal in their walk. As for Bear the next step is just the first of many interesting journeys that will without a doubt take place in 2009. Pim and I are road tripping to see a beloved friend. Let the journey of 2009 begin.

Love
Bear

Something Amazing

2009-01-02T03:29:00.002-06:00

As 2009 draws us into a new point of view, I have a new point of view. It has been quite a long time since Bear and me have gave us your thoughts, so here is one. I used to be in the thought that it was better to always give your opinion and if you didn't agree with someone, you let them know. My recent experience has told me different. I have found a sub-culture, and not so much a sub-culture, other than the fact that they are a new group of friends. A new group of friends that is moving from a sub-culture in my life, to a very important, impactful part, that has challenged me. You see, here it doesn't matter what kind of juice you like, what kind of music you listen to, what sports team you cheer for. Everyone is different, and everyone embraces those differences. It reminded me that we all have different things that we like and are involved in. Whether you are the jock, the marching band geek (or stud), the prom princess, or the mathlete, everyone has something special that we should embrace. Why do we find it so necessary to challenge everyone with what they like? "I love Jimmy Eat World." "Jimmy Eat World sucks dude, why would you ever like them?" I just do not understand that thought now? Why not embrace each other's likings and learn something from each. It goes much deeper than music, but ill let you think of that on your own. There is one absolute truth, which is Christ. Is the rest not just commentary? As I say everytime, be yourself...you will not be disappointed. Let's embrace eachother's loves.

This is Pim. Love Eachother. Be Cool...Be Fine in 09! Love Ya'll

A Place of Comfort

2008-05-09T15:43:00.005-05:00

Well its been a long time since this blog has seen the light of day and for that me and Pim apologize. It has been a very interesting semester in school and it's almost over. Today i hopefully move into my new place of residence for the summer and God willing everything will go smoothly. Its been so long since i've posted that i really haven't the slightest clue of what to embark on whatever audience finds themselves reading this. One thing has continually popped into my mind though. This semester i found a place, a place that brings out the best in me. This place brings people together and in the context of loud music, continuous pool, and friendly conversation i find peace. I won't reveal its location or its title for safety sake, after all it is my place of solitude and if word gets out that has the potential of being stripped from me. I guess in writing this I'm trying to convey the importance of finding a place that brings out the best in you. Find a place that you feel comfortable with and use it often to bring joy to your life and the lives of others. Trust me, if you find a place like this it can become something you will remember for the rest of your life.

Love each other

Bear

Judgment

2008-02-23T01:07:00.000-06:00

Get to know someone before you judge them.

Pim

One Mississippi

2008-02-20T23:30:00.003-06:00

Well it's about time for another post and it seems like centuries since the last. I don't know about you but sometimes i'm just flat out lazy. I don't know why, but i do know it feels awesome. Falling asleep for me occasionally becomes a chore. A few nights ago i was lying in bed for what seemed to be eternity when my thoughts began to shift towards God. This is not uncommon, but often my thoughts drift off into other things like music, friends stories, my dream girl, my parents, my brother, politics, and the list goes on and on. This night my brain centered around God. I thought about how Christians use the word searching as terminology for non-believers and their spiritual longing. Then i thought, I know that i have found God but it is it possible to lose him in the routine of my daily life. Should we always be searching for God? I came to the conclusion that we must continue this search. It reminds me of the childhood game of hide-and-seek. God can hide in a variety of places and we get to try and find Him. When we do find him, the game starts all over again. God can be found in every situation that presents itself to us. We have the ability to see this but refuse and become blind to his qualities. We need to train ourselves to see beyond the terrible, hypocritical, devastating, exhausting, impatient, immoral things in life and just play hide-and-seek with our creator. Will you join me in this game, I'll be it first. One Mississippi...................

Lets Play
Bear

Snapple

2008-02-14T22:02:00.004-06:00

It is an unusual situation when Bear and I disagree. Today is one of those days. He thrives on Valentine's day. There is something about it that motivates him and sparks his mood. I, on the other hand, loathe it. I get in a bad mood, and am in a state of solitude. It is not the fact that I don't have a significant other or that I particularly hate pink and purple. It's the simple fact that Valentine's day is used as a special occasion by the hallmark to urge us to do what we should be doing everyday. Loving people. Not just for couples but for everyone. I will say one good thing about Valentine's Day: it does do its intended job. People get googly eyed, and remember why they fell in love to begin with. And for those who do not have a significant other, friendly cards and candy is passed around. It is a day of great joy for many and for many who don't have loved ones, it kind of sucks. But regardless of that fact, this joy needs to be a regular practice of humanity. The kind of joy that brings actions of doing good for others, giving out candy because you love someone, and an overall sense of generosity. I miss Snapple. You know the delightfully refreshing fruity drink? It's still around, but those awesome commercials do not really air anymore. Their tagline "made from the best stuff on earth" is probably my favorite, because I love fruit. There aren't very many things that are more pure than fruit. But the kind of joy that needs to take place everyday as though it is Valentine's Day...that is more pure. It is the best stuff on earth, and it originates from best stuff in heaven.

This Is Pim. Love Eachother. Be Cool. Happy Valentine's Day.

God all the time?

2008-02-12T23:29:00.003-06:00

Lately I've made an attempt to find God in all that i do or say. This idea was taken from a daily devotional. 2 Corinthians 10:5 tells us to bring every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ. It's not that easy. I catch myself neglecting Gods creation and Gods created. I would encourage anyone who reads this to make an attempt at the same idea. Walk outside and look with great intent at Gods creation. Pray and thank God for your surroundings and the people who surround you. Try to find prayer in every aspect of your day. Continue until prayer consumes your thoughts and actions. It's going to be difficult, but through persistant prayer and worship maybe we can begin to change the lives of others. I think that might be considered the Great Commision.

Love Creation
Bear

tenure friends

2008-02-11T12:13:00.000-06:00

Do you have a friend that you miss? Maybe a friend that you are so incredibly close to and have such a deep and profound love for? I am fortunate to have such a friend. It's amazing to me that this girl and I still talk. We dated for a little and after a realized love for someone else, I broke it off. Now, granted I was a young freshmen in college when this happened, but it is still a reality. It was rough waters ahead after that, and after not talking for a while we finally reconnected a couple weeks ago. It feels distinctly similar finding something you have lost. Like being years into manhood, and finding the forgotten teddy bear you cuddled with every night in your childhood. That feeling of happiness, redemption, and old feelings and memories come rushing back, and I welcome it with open arms. Back when we were in high school (she was one year younger than I) we were in an activity that brought us incredibly close. We traveled together, we talked constantly, and more importantly, the fabrics of our lives became intertwined because we had a genuine love and care for each other. We referred to each other as "tenure". It is defined as guaranteed permanent employment. It's a stretch of the definition, but you get the picture. In reflection, it is the "tenure friends" that really count. The friends that you put above everybody else in the world. Get some. Well as we are now split by the Mississippi and states away from each other, I am reminded of those times. Times of laughter, crying, yelling/jumping/screaming/fist pumping/catching/performing/blasting/WINNING. And as much as we won in the activity that we were in, it wasn't about the activity after all. It was about winning a friend. We could have lost every time we went out and at this point in my life there would be a big check mark in the Win Column. Not only winning her friendship, but the simple fact that she knows that I would die for her, travel five hours to her if she needed me, and always...ALWAYS take care of her. There is a very small number of people who come close to how much I care for her. This relationship is totally platonic, totally pure, totally loving, totally caring, totally selfless and it is definitely totally tenure.

This Is Pim. Love Eachother. Be Cool.

Home

2008-02-10T00:12:00.000-06:00

I feel more like a stranger each time i come home. My bed is no longer my bed. The room feels empty, depressing, and lacks the memories of past events. I went back today, back to a time of less worries, when things felt hopeful. I'm not saying things are not hopeful now, it's just less evident in day to day activity. As for my travels back through time, they were interesting to say the least. I miss it. I miss it tremendously. I miss old friends and reflect on new ones. I miss a certain house that really did feel like home even though it wasn't my own. I miss dress up dinners and park dates. I miss cramming nine hundred people in my car to go reek havic on the city. I thought about all this. When my mind returned from the past, i thought about people and places i have now. I thought and i smiled. I do have a home, its a part of everything around me. My mentors words of wisdom are home. My friends and their open arms are home. My music is home. Having coffee and dessert is home. All of these things are just pieces of home. Home is a reflection of Christ. The room no longer feels empty.

Love
Bear

Hope you do well?

2008-02-08T22:49:00.000-06:00

Today is going to be really easy. Serve eachother and love eachother. There is nothing more profoundly selfless then serving and loving other people. There is a little bit inside all of us that thrives on helping people and doing what is good. We always tell people to do well. It has become one of the key phrases of our earthly existence, do well. But I think, although I might be just staring too deeply into syntax, that we once again could do better. How about "Do Good". Although it is not proper grammar in a sense, it is actually what I mean. Do good for people, do good for the world, do good for the existence of humanity, do good for God. Do your best, your very best, and although most of the time our best sucks, it's all we have. What if this new generation of college kids and young adults (one that is highly criticized for our laziness and desire to have our parents' lives, one who's integrity is questioned by older generations) could be a beacon to the darkness? A lighthouse to dark and troubling waters. We have no idea what God can do when we do good. We live in a bad world. Do Good.

This Is Pim. Love Eachother. Be Cool.

Example

2008-02-08T01:29:00.000-06:00

Mother Teresa said something profound when asked about her prayer life. She was asked what she said to God while praying. She responded by saying, I don't say anything I just listen. Then she was asked, What does God say to you? She responded with, He doesn't say anything He just listens.

Be Loving, Pray and Listen
Bear

Waiting...Paitently...For Perfect Love.

2008-02-07T00:00:00.000-06:00

As Bear and I (and about 10 of our colleagues from work) conclude season 4 of the O.C., I have so many questions. It has been a wonderful experience, being intertwined with all of the characters relationships, mistakes, and drama. *SPOILER ALERT* And as the final episode ended with the marriage of Seth and Summer, I try and think of everything they went through. Of how he was a dork, and she was the coolest girl in school, and somehow they found each other, soulmates if you will. I look deep inside my life and realize that I want this! I think that the majority of people who take part in these kind of shows all do. It is the draw, the bait that tricks them and gets them reeled in. We become depressed at the state of our lives and look for guidance. We see the relationship that such two people have, a relationship where it is quite clear that they are each other's "saviors". We get so enthralled with it that we start putting ourselves into that situation, and my big question...Is this even possible? I am not trying to be a critic of Love, because I am quite convinced that God has done enough on this planet and for his people to show us that it is the most essential fabric of the universe's workings. I guess what I am really trying to find out, Is that really love? I can't explain the feeling that I get when I see Summer and Seth. It makes troubles go away, it has a unique feeling of the underdog fighting through the storm, hands raised in victory. It ignites emotions within me that I feel need to come out every now and then. But the question remains, Is that really love? Is that a true form of possible love? And as I expand my thinking, I am forced to come to the conclusion of...no. As much as I hate it, the answer is no. The thing we must understand about shows such as the OC, and sappy love songs, and even fairy tales, is that it leaves no room for error. Most fairy tales end with "and they lived happily ever after". Well the truth of the matter is, in real life, they didn't live happily ever after. The lived a really stressed life, where they had numerous problems with matters such as raising kids, lust, and financial security. The thing about people in real life is, despite these problems, they get through it. Most successful relationships work, not because they don't have any problems, but because they truck through them. They do not let those tough situations break eachother up, but help bind together. True love is not about feelings, and trivial thoughts, but about a choice to consistently choose that person daily. And to be honest, I am scared for the Summer and Seth's in the real world. They do not stand a chance. The kind of love that these shows, songs, and fairy tales promote is completely and utterly unrealistic. In this savior love, they do not have a chance. If we are basing our relationships on the fact that the other person is, as John Mayer so poetically puts it, "our saving grace", the relationships are doomed. It is too much responsibility for any human to have on their shoulders. And in contrast to that there is the true saving grace of Jesus Christ, who can take the burden to be our "savior love". I guess the short of what I am trying to say is, do not put that responsibility on one another, that love cannot exist between two humans, but put that responsibility on Christ to have that saving, redeeming, perfect love. It's the only place you will find it. So while all of you guys and girls are looking for your Summers and Seths, I choose Christ.

This is Pim. Love Eachother. Be Cool

The Political Taco

2008-02-05T22:25:00.000-06:00

It's always gratifying to sleep in on rainy days. What is it about the rain that makes a person feel depressed and hungry? I was starving when i woke up. A quick decision was made and suddenly my vehicle found itself sleeping in the parking lot of an empty Taco Bell. Pim came along to make the occasion less lonesome. So there we were, tired, hungry, and soft spoken, eating our deliciously made grade F meat. Usually rainy days are filled with naps, T.V, and emotionless stares. It was during an emotionless stare that i heard conversation that would break the curse of my rainy day depression. A woman working at the Bell was surprisingly open about her past. She spoke shamelessly about her previous work as a female stripper. Pim and I were the only two in the place. Her words caught my attention immediatlely. Lets be serious, if a girl starts talking about being a stripper you listen. She reasoned with her idealogy for quiting the job. It turns out she was a mommy stripper and did not want her kid to grow up knowing his mother took her clothes off for creapy old men. I pondered the situation after giggling with Pim for a moment. Later, after we returned from our journey and our tummies were filled with refried beans, i again thought of the young Taco Bell employee. I wondered what her past might have looked like. I wondered if her parents were loving, if her friends truly loved her. I ultimately wondered if she knew God. For awhile i wondered if there was anything that i could have done to make her life truly better. Maybe an understanding tone or smile that could have created a better atmosphere for her the rest of the day. Then i began to think about thinks on a larger scale. My net expanded to thoughts of a larger crowd of people, the people in which i live with and work with. Today is Super Tuesday, a big day for American politics. Potentially a day when we find out who will be running in November to lead us into a new era. "Where does God fit in all of this", I asked myself. We are called to lead by example. Hopefully the next presidential candidate will do the same, and hopefully his example is Jesus Christ. My answer, "God is a part of everything". As a human being i cannot will my support of a presidential candidate into office. All i can do as a Christian is pray that God is behind what is really taking place in our lives, and in that faithfully support the person that takes over as our countries leader. My job for now is to help create a movement of love among people. I hope and pray that you will join in this movement and maybe together we can create a better world for people like the Taco Bell employee that had a problematic past. Maybe just maybe we can create a world where depression doesn't exist on rainy days.

Remember, Love one another

Bear

.Be You.

2008-02-04T14:57:00.001-06:00

It's interesting what feelings can arise by conversation. It's the most simple of things isn't it? Just talking. We are subject to it every single day, and if you can get over the typical banter such as, "how's the weather?" or "so how about those cheating patriots getting crushed?" people have some amazing thoughts. Here's one. I was talking to one that I dearly love and as the typical, "hey, want some coffee?" conversation was going on she said something that I never would have thought. "I used to try so hard to be cool. I just wanted people to like me. I would do anything to be cool in those days". Nostalgia. And maybe nostalgia isn't the right word, because those days were not happy days for me. But for a couple seconds I got blasted to my past. To a time where I tried so hard to be cool...I wanted so much for people to like me that I would do anything. And as I sit here typing, thinking about the memories, regrets, of doing things against my personality just to look "cool", I wonder what cool really looks like. It is an appropriate thought, since I end our daily's with "be cool". Being cool is not something we do or do not do. It's not about smoking a cigarette because everyone around you is, or drinking so you move up on someone's personal ladder. It's not about being a democrat to rebel against your parents, or choosing republican because it is the social norm in your city. It's not about the clothes you wear, the car you drive, the music you listen to, or the boyfriend/girlfriend you have. Being cool starts inside. And I think everyone is cool in some way. Such as every girl is pretty in some way. If you look at girls, really look at them, not just outside, but inside, you will realize this. Each and everyone has something about them that is intrinsically beautiful. And we are cool in such a way. I believe it is God showing himself in each and everyone. I have a friend who might be the most socially awkward person ever. He can't speak well, girls do not dig him, and the way he dresses is completely vile. He is the bane of societies "cool" existence. He also is doing amazing things for starving children in Africa. He is in complete dedication to the needs of those less than him. He sacrifices much. And to me that is cool. When we realize that who we are as individuals are cool, we will make incredible strides. Don't try to be cool. Be yourself. You're cool. Don't do things to please people, do things because it is who you are. And to the girl that I had that conversation: You are not only a blessings, an incredible woman, and an inspiration, you are one of the coolest people I have ever met. And to the ambassador of "cool", the one who pressures, and who is faking it yourself: Jokes on you.

This is Pim. Love Eachother. Be Cool

Techno Meets the O.C.

2008-02-03T10:29:00.000-06:00

Sometimes it takes really bad techno to appreciate the truly good music in life. Sometimes it takes a group of newborn friends, sitting in a hazy bubble, to crush boredom on an otherwise disappointing Saturday. Putting aside the techno surplus that forced my ears to bleed, the moment came out as one unique connection. Sitting, watching other people set their worries aside and become completely selfless within the music created a thing of beauty in my mind. So when the hose came to me, I thought about God. It's hard sometimes but in all things God can be represented. I found God in the small community cramped up around an ashy end table at a techno dance party. I found God in the faces of friends around that table. I found God in the silence of the car ride back home. Later that night i found Him in a very unusaul setting. I found myself watching the O.C. I know it sounds lame, but somehow there is something about sexy, dramatic, unrealistic teen drama that brings people together. In those early morning hours filled with heartbreak and tears reflecting from the glowing telivison i found a since of community. A community among friends, and it was in that community that i found God.

Remember to always love one another.
Bear

The Real Question

2008-02-02T00:55:00.003-06:00

As I sit here, exasperated from dancing to a song (one which will remain unnamed), I wonder if we all have missed a huge part of life. When did everything become so complicated and serious? When did humanity become numb to the fact that simplicity is cool. When did the status quo of life become worry, trouble, and stress? It is all around. We need to do exactly as that overused cliche recommends. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the show. I am not blameless. It took me dancing to this unnamed song to finally come to the conclusion that I need more of this in my life. More joy, more brilliance, more out of controlness. At the end of the day what are we to do but simply laugh at ourselves. There will be enough worry, trouble, and stress for an entire life. And what do we fall back on, except the fact that everyday brings new mercies, new graces, new opportunities to find who we truly are, and enjoy the simple things in life. Like dancing crazy, and then laughing because you look like a huge tool. I want to laugh harder, love deeper, serve bloodier, and give worry, trouble, and stress hell. Everyone says they want to live life to the fullest, and it starts with everyday. So the real question is not, what do I have on my plate today, but how am I going to kick tail today. How am I going to live in such a way that the very joy I think about becomes a reality? Think about it, then crank the tunes, and dance.

This is Pim. Love Eachother. Be Cool

Enjoy.

2008-02-01T01:14:00.000-06:00

First thing's first. Hi. It's Pim, Bear's around. We want to officially welcome you to this. If it is anything, it is two people hoping that their stories can be a real, encouraging, reminder of life in all its various lows and highs. We hope that, whatever state you may be in, you might be able to check regularly, commenting about the ideas you like, and screaming about the ones that piss you off. Some will be funny, sad, pissy, joyful, arrogant, or just plain out of control. It's cool. Life is composed with all of the above. More than anything, we want real emotion, real feeling, real thought, real life to be exposed, and through our stories of trial and error, loneliness, togetherness, happiness, whateverness, you can relate and have a good time. It is appropriate that "Dream of Destiny" is our first post. We have all been there. We hope that you all have dreams, and that you believe in them so much that destiny can be attached. This is us saying hi. Stay a while. What we're trying to say, in too many words is...enjoy.

This is Pim. Love Eachother. Be Cool.