My friend Carmella forwarded this article to me (she taught in Eritrea, Africa):
www.nytimes.com/2010/06/20/world/africa/20eritrea.html
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Abuse Leads to Suicide
Please check out the following article from the Winnipeg Free Press:
www.winnipegfreepress.com/opinion/westview/abuse-drives-some-afghan-women-to-suicide-97049599.html
www.winnipegfreepress.com/opinion/westview/abuse-drives-some-afghan-women-to-suicide-97049599.html
Monday, June 28, 2010
Playing the Enemy
I know I have already recommended watching the movie Invictus and if you have not heeded my recommendation, well, you're missing out! Even better is the book "Playing the Enemy", which the movie is based on. Ironically, I started reading the book on June 24 - the actual date of this famous rugby game in South African history.
"'What we saw that day was a revolution,' said [Archbishop] Tutu, joyous that he had lived to see his country give birth to a new model of revolution, one in which the enemy was not eliminated, he was brought into the fold; that instead of dividing a people, uniting them."
The outcome of the soccer World Cup currently in South Africa will not be the same as the rugby game played 15 years ago. But even though the South African team has been eliminated from the competition, they (the country) are still winners as they continue to pursue peace despite all the things that could divide them.
"'What we saw that day was a revolution,' said [Archbishop] Tutu, joyous that he had lived to see his country give birth to a new model of revolution, one in which the enemy was not eliminated, he was brought into the fold; that instead of dividing a people, uniting them."
The outcome of the soccer World Cup currently in South Africa will not be the same as the rugby game played 15 years ago. But even though the South African team has been eliminated from the competition, they (the country) are still winners as they continue to pursue peace despite all the things that could divide them.
Sunday, June 27, 2010
Remembering
Today marks an important anniversary - unbelievably I graduated from high school 14 years ago!?! How can that be; it feels like yesterday. This week was actually filled with days of remembrance.
June 24th marks the 35th anniversary of my grandfather's death - I never knew him. My grandmother was left with 9 children ranging from 21 (my mom) down to 3 years old. She had to learn to drive and go out to find a job. But God was faithful, providing a church who has always stood in the gap, just as He continues to hold her hand today.
June 25th marks my baptism 15 years ago. What a journey is has been! And I'm still discovering, on a daily basis, what my faith really means to me and what it looks like to be the hands and feet of Christ each and every day.
June 24th marks the 35th anniversary of my grandfather's death - I never knew him. My grandmother was left with 9 children ranging from 21 (my mom) down to 3 years old. She had to learn to drive and go out to find a job. But God was faithful, providing a church who has always stood in the gap, just as He continues to hold her hand today.
June 25th marks my baptism 15 years ago. What a journey is has been! And I'm still discovering, on a daily basis, what my faith really means to me and what it looks like to be the hands and feet of Christ each and every day.
Saturday, June 26, 2010
Princesses, Pink & Piper
I missed a lot when I was gone last year - holidays like Easter, special days like Mother's Day & Father's Day, and birthdays, especially for the little people in my life who are growing up far too quickly. I love hanging out with kids - they see life uniquely through their eyes and usually voice exactly how they see it. This week I had the chance to celebrate Piper's 4th birthday. I spent the afternoon with her and all she could think about was the cake. . .when were we going to eat the cake. . .how long till the cake? I love that the most important things in her life right now are princesses and the color pink! How can you not love that? - a life that's so simple.
Because you see, Piper and her family's life is anything but simple right now. Her sister Kiera has been in and out of the hospital since she was born in January. So it was important to set aside her birthday to let her know that cake and presents and balloon decorations not only celebrate her precious life, but the life of her entire family as they face whatever the day brings their way. I'm so glad that I could be close enough to celebrate with them this year - I wouldn't have missed it for the world!
Because you see, Piper and her family's life is anything but simple right now. Her sister Kiera has been in and out of the hospital since she was born in January. So it was important to set aside her birthday to let her know that cake and presents and balloon decorations not only celebrate her precious life, but the life of her entire family as they face whatever the day brings their way. I'm so glad that I could be close enough to celebrate with them this year - I wouldn't have missed it for the world!
Friday, June 25, 2010
3rd Time's, A Charm!
Check out today's article in our local paper (my 3rd initiated appearance this year, plus I got a bonus one through the Amnesty group selling Threads of Hope) and then go out and get your very own piece of the World Cup in Altona, Winkler, Morden or online at www.littletravellers.net:
www.altonaecho.com/ArticleDisplay.aspx?e=2639559
www.altonaecho.com/ArticleDisplay.aspx?e=2639559
Thursday, June 24, 2010
Taste of Freedom
I mentioned a short article from Friday's Winnipeg Free Press in my post on Tuesday. Normally, we only get the Saturday paper, but there was an article of interest that affects my community:
www.winnipegfreepress.com/local/killer-to-get-taste-of-freedom-96637094.html
Altona is a tight-knit, Mennonite Christian community. I was in junior high when this horrific event took place about 20 years ago. If you read the comments below the article (which will take quite a bit of time), you can see that there are many different perspectives represented. Definitely no easy answers. Canada's justice system is far from perfect, but having traveled to other countries around the world, I am thankful for our government, judicial system and police force. The wheels of justice may turn very slowly but at least they may forward (for the most part) and not backwards. Every country's system has its faults, but when you consider corruption happening within governments and by the police in certain countries, I am grateful to live in Canada even though I don't always agree with all the decisions that are made in running our country.
www.winnipegfreepress.com/local/killer-to-get-taste-of-freedom-96637094.html
Altona is a tight-knit, Mennonite Christian community. I was in junior high when this horrific event took place about 20 years ago. If you read the comments below the article (which will take quite a bit of time), you can see that there are many different perspectives represented. Definitely no easy answers. Canada's justice system is far from perfect, but having traveled to other countries around the world, I am thankful for our government, judicial system and police force. The wheels of justice may turn very slowly but at least they may forward (for the most part) and not backwards. Every country's system has its faults, but when you consider corruption happening within governments and by the police in certain countries, I am grateful to live in Canada even though I don't always agree with all the decisions that are made in running our country.
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Blessed
Do you ever have those days or weeks when you just can't get over your life? We're so blessed in the west and sometimes, I don't comprehend just how much. But this week, my cup is overflowing (which doesn't mean that I haven't had my struggles). If you go back to Sunday's post and check out the comment that was left, you will note that THE AUTHOR of the book I quoted let me know that he had found my post (how in the world, I still don't know). I'm not about meeting famous people, but I am entirely about connecting and meeting people that I respect and he's definitely one of them. Wow!
On Monday I ran around like a mad woman (and for those of you who know me and how I function, that fact with not surprise you in the least!). Last Friday I received the Little Travellers that I'm going to distribute and sell during the World Cup and for some local summer festivals. On Monday morning I found shops that would sell them and then I headed to the local newspaper to sit down for an interview in that regard (thanks again Greg!). This was my 3rd interview with Greg this year (strange for a girl who just wants to lead a quiet existence!) and so he asked me how I keep up with all of my projects, especially given that I'm only subbing (and not much at that). I guess it's about really learning to live by faith (difficult for someone who wants to be in control) and my parents! Even with my limited resources, they continue to shelter and feed me and I told Greg that I wouldn't be able to do what I'm doing without my parents and their support. Wow again!
Yesterday, my friend invited me to speak to the junior highs at the school where she teaches. The hour just flew by as I talked about my travels and injustice issues and fair trade. When I'm in that moment/zone, I just know that it's what I should be doing. If that were not enough of a blessing in itself, I got a phone call from South Africa and received such encouragement. WOW!
I wonder what the rest of the week will bring!
On Monday I ran around like a mad woman (and for those of you who know me and how I function, that fact with not surprise you in the least!). Last Friday I received the Little Travellers that I'm going to distribute and sell during the World Cup and for some local summer festivals. On Monday morning I found shops that would sell them and then I headed to the local newspaper to sit down for an interview in that regard (thanks again Greg!). This was my 3rd interview with Greg this year (strange for a girl who just wants to lead a quiet existence!) and so he asked me how I keep up with all of my projects, especially given that I'm only subbing (and not much at that). I guess it's about really learning to live by faith (difficult for someone who wants to be in control) and my parents! Even with my limited resources, they continue to shelter and feed me and I told Greg that I wouldn't be able to do what I'm doing without my parents and their support. Wow again!
Yesterday, my friend invited me to speak to the junior highs at the school where she teaches. The hour just flew by as I talked about my travels and injustice issues and fair trade. When I'm in that moment/zone, I just know that it's what I should be doing. If that were not enough of a blessing in itself, I got a phone call from South Africa and received such encouragement. WOW!
I wonder what the rest of the week will bring!
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
Human Trafficking Bill
Tucked away in last Friday's newspaper was a short article with a small picture, but the picture caught my eye - it was MP Joy Smith. Despite our Parliament proroguing for the Vancouver Olympics, Joy Smith kept speaking up about the importance of passing her private member's bill regarding a minimum sentence for those caught trafficking a minor. "The bill sets a minimum sentence of 5 years for anyone convicted of human trafficking when the victim is a child, and 6 years if there are aggravating circumstances such as violence" (Winnipeg Free Press). Those numbers may sound low, but they are huge considering that the minimum sentence was ZERO before this bill was passed. It was especially important to make this change within our laws, given our proximity to the USA who's minimum is 10 years.
Monday, June 21, 2010
Did you Know. . .
You may have noticed a new button just underneath my blog title - "Did You Know. . ." If you have already checked it out, you will know that today (the official start to summer) I am starting to count the 100 days of summer with an interesting or unusual or meaningless fact about myself that you may or may not already know (in no particular order). Check back as much as you can to see what's new!
Sunday, June 20, 2010
Our Father God
This one goes out to my brother Clint (grab the kleenex, man!) - I am so thankful we have the same heavenly Father!!
"One day while browsing, I came across a large picture book of Ireland, each page a photograph of some aspects of a day in the life of this legendary land accompanied by an explanatory caption. Settling around Dublin the corner of my eye caught something that hijacked my attention. All decked out in a pretty pink dress with white lace was a sweet little girl in a wheelchair. Her angel face was radiantly pale, sporting a big yellow bow. Frilly white stockings disappeared into her sturdy white leather dress shoes, which were strapped down tight to the folding metal rests beneath her pigeon-toed feet. I could not turn away from this portrait of mangled beauty, despite knowing well enough that it isn't polite to stare at handicapped kids.
"Kneeling down close beside the little girl is Dad. With one arm gently wrapped around her, he reads from an oversized storybook propped up in her lap. Slumped over against his shoulder, she is turned toward him, with the top of her precious head resting against the side of his face. She can't walk or sit up straight, and offers only an occasional groan. She's just sitting there unresponsive, seemingly oblivious, as Dad dutifully reads her a story, altering his voice to impersonate the different characters.
"My mind began wandering, imagining this father's world. On bended knee is a man who must walk through life brokenhearted for his daughter, who will never sing silly songs, skate in the park, or dance at the her prom. A dad who loves his little girl perhaps more because of that but who will never hear "I love you, Daddy," whispered in his ear or receive a homemade Father's Day card with sunshine and stick people. She will never do most of the things a ponytailed little girl wants to do for her daddy. A tidal wave of sorrow crashed over me as I pictured my [daughter] Jessica strapped in and slumped over in that wheelchair.
"The lens of my soul zoomed in on her facial expression as she sits wrapped in her father's arms. Earnestly reading, she sits spellbound, gazing into his face with her mouth slightly open with a smile. He's glued to the book; she's glued to him. What does she see? What does she feel? She seems so content and peaceful, at home really, resting her head against Daddy's face, receiving his love. Then again, that's all she can do. She's not even capable of reciprocating her father's love, and yet I can see she is his most precious treasure. Perhaps most look upon this scene in pity. How terrible to not be able to function in the most essential ways; perhaps in the eyes of the world she is useless. Not to her father. To him she is priceless.
"Taking all this in, a torrent of troubling thoughts rose from somewhere deep within me. Would God still love me if I couldn't do anything for him? What if I were useless and couldn't do even the basic things I had learned a good Christian does? What if I couldn't impact others in any significant way, lead someone to Christ, serve a person in need, teach others Scripture, be a leader? What if I couldn't even go to church or have a quiet time? What if I were barely even capable of having an intelligent thought about God? What if. . ."
Divine Nobodies, by Jim Palmer, p. 48 - 50
"One day while browsing, I came across a large picture book of Ireland, each page a photograph of some aspects of a day in the life of this legendary land accompanied by an explanatory caption. Settling around Dublin the corner of my eye caught something that hijacked my attention. All decked out in a pretty pink dress with white lace was a sweet little girl in a wheelchair. Her angel face was radiantly pale, sporting a big yellow bow. Frilly white stockings disappeared into her sturdy white leather dress shoes, which were strapped down tight to the folding metal rests beneath her pigeon-toed feet. I could not turn away from this portrait of mangled beauty, despite knowing well enough that it isn't polite to stare at handicapped kids.
"Kneeling down close beside the little girl is Dad. With one arm gently wrapped around her, he reads from an oversized storybook propped up in her lap. Slumped over against his shoulder, she is turned toward him, with the top of her precious head resting against the side of his face. She can't walk or sit up straight, and offers only an occasional groan. She's just sitting there unresponsive, seemingly oblivious, as Dad dutifully reads her a story, altering his voice to impersonate the different characters.
"My mind began wandering, imagining this father's world. On bended knee is a man who must walk through life brokenhearted for his daughter, who will never sing silly songs, skate in the park, or dance at the her prom. A dad who loves his little girl perhaps more because of that but who will never hear "I love you, Daddy," whispered in his ear or receive a homemade Father's Day card with sunshine and stick people. She will never do most of the things a ponytailed little girl wants to do for her daddy. A tidal wave of sorrow crashed over me as I pictured my [daughter] Jessica strapped in and slumped over in that wheelchair.
"The lens of my soul zoomed in on her facial expression as she sits wrapped in her father's arms. Earnestly reading, she sits spellbound, gazing into his face with her mouth slightly open with a smile. He's glued to the book; she's glued to him. What does she see? What does she feel? She seems so content and peaceful, at home really, resting her head against Daddy's face, receiving his love. Then again, that's all she can do. She's not even capable of reciprocating her father's love, and yet I can see she is his most precious treasure. Perhaps most look upon this scene in pity. How terrible to not be able to function in the most essential ways; perhaps in the eyes of the world she is useless. Not to her father. To him she is priceless.
"Taking all this in, a torrent of troubling thoughts rose from somewhere deep within me. Would God still love me if I couldn't do anything for him? What if I were useless and couldn't do even the basic things I had learned a good Christian does? What if I couldn't impact others in any significant way, lead someone to Christ, serve a person in need, teach others Scripture, be a leader? What if I couldn't even go to church or have a quiet time? What if I were barely even capable of having an intelligent thought about God? What if. . ."
Divine Nobodies, by Jim Palmer, p. 48 - 50
Saturday, June 19, 2010
World Refugee Day
Check out www.unhcr.ca/wrd/default.htm to get more information about World Refugee Day, happening tomorrow. This year's theme is "Home - They have taken my home but they can't take my future".
Friday, June 18, 2010
Honour Killings on the Rise
Check out this article from yesterday's Winnipeg Free Press:
www.winnipegfreepress.com/canada/honour-killings-on-rise-96546039.html
www.winnipegfreepress.com/canada/honour-killings-on-rise-96546039.html
Thursday, June 17, 2010
Prayer to End Trafficking
"Lord of freedom and love, we are saddened to know that more than one million people are trafficked into slavery each year.
Our hearts grieve for what our minds can barely comprehend, particularly when we hear of women, men, and children who are deceived and transported to unknown places.
We recognize this sexual and economic exploitation occurs because of human greed and profit.
We are sorrowful and our spirits angry that human dignity is being degraded through deception and threats of force.
Help the violators to be transformed and enlightened to realize the scope of their unjust actions.
Allow them to see the value and the dignity of every human person.
Lord of Life, strengthen those whose hearts have been broken and lives have been uprooted.
Give us the light, grace, and courage to work with you so that we can all participate in the goodness of creation.
Fill us with the wisdom and courage to stand in solidarity with the victims so that we may all enjoy the freedoms and rights which have their source in your Son and our Lord Jesus Christ."
-- Adapted from Franciscans International and a prayer by Sr. G. Cassani, SSND
Our hearts grieve for what our minds can barely comprehend, particularly when we hear of women, men, and children who are deceived and transported to unknown places.
We recognize this sexual and economic exploitation occurs because of human greed and profit.
We are sorrowful and our spirits angry that human dignity is being degraded through deception and threats of force.
Help the violators to be transformed and enlightened to realize the scope of their unjust actions.
Allow them to see the value and the dignity of every human person.
Lord of Life, strengthen those whose hearts have been broken and lives have been uprooted.
Give us the light, grace, and courage to work with you so that we can all participate in the goodness of creation.
Fill us with the wisdom and courage to stand in solidarity with the victims so that we may all enjoy the freedoms and rights which have their source in your Son and our Lord Jesus Christ."
-- Adapted from Franciscans International and a prayer by Sr. G. Cassani, SSND
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Prison Reform
Do you believe that ONE person can make a difference? I mean, do you REALLY believe that? It's the challenge that I put out every time I have the chance to speak to various groups regarding injustice issues and my travels last year. I certainly believe that one person can make a difference but I don't know that I truly believe that for EVERY circumstance in life. My dad, mom and brother are involved in ministry at prison and sometimes I wonder if they are just wasting their time and gas. But I was reminded (as I tell others) that it is the small things - like going back to the prison week after week, buying chips and a drink for the inmate, and then just talking and listening - that have the most impact.
Please play this web exclusive and then check out the full length Listen Up TV episode (#416) on Prison Reform at www.listenuptv.com/listenup/shows?show_id=186
Please play this web exclusive and then check out the full length Listen Up TV episode (#416) on Prison Reform at www.listenuptv.com/listenup/shows?show_id=186
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa
The eyes of the world are focused on South Africa with the 2010 FIFA World Cup (which started last Friday www.fifa.com). My heart is cheering for South Africa, but not as much for their soccer team as for their country. I feel like I'm holding my breath, praying that everything will work well. It's not only the games that need to run smoothly for this event to be considered successful. And when July 11th comes around to celebrate the champions and close the World Cup, it will be yet another check on South Africa's list of things accomplished to move one step further from apartheid and one step closer to becoming a unified nation.
South Africa is definitely in the world's spotlight, way beyond the soccer field. There is an article in this month's National Geographic (see ngm.nationalgeographic.com/2010/06/south-africa/fuller-text) entitled Mandela's Children. There is so much to be said about restitution and reconciliation, and I think that the world has a lot to learn from South Africa (see more on restitution and reconciliation in tomorrow's blog). My favorite part of the National Geographic article comes from Dr. Marjorie Jobson who said, "It's up to each individual South African to participate actively in restitution. You know, the power of one. The power one person has to perpetuate our violent past, or the power one person has to contribute to a just, peaceful society." I think that applies to every individual in each country of the world, not just South Africa.
South Africa is definitely in the world's spotlight, way beyond the soccer field. There is an article in this month's National Geographic (see ngm.nationalgeographic.com/2010/06/south-africa/fuller-text) entitled Mandela's Children. There is so much to be said about restitution and reconciliation, and I think that the world has a lot to learn from South Africa (see more on restitution and reconciliation in tomorrow's blog). My favorite part of the National Geographic article comes from Dr. Marjorie Jobson who said, "It's up to each individual South African to participate actively in restitution. You know, the power of one. The power one person has to perpetuate our violent past, or the power one person has to contribute to a just, peaceful society." I think that applies to every individual in each country of the world, not just South Africa.
Monday, June 14, 2010
Canadian Food, eh?
Continuing in the same vein of food that I've been blogging about for the past week or so, I received this link from the Manitoba Foodgrains Bank rep. What do you think?
video from www.youtube.com/watch?v=CRfjMOjrfnI&playnext_from=TL&videos=yqAHhIb2Kg0
video from www.youtube.com/watch?v=CRfjMOjrfnI&playnext_from=TL&videos=yqAHhIb2Kg0
Sunday, June 13, 2010
Fast for Change
The booklet "Fast for Change" concludes with a list of things to do, having experienced the last 7 days.
Where to from Here?
Where to from Here?
- Shop Wisely - simpler, less travelled, less packaged, fairly traded
- Speak Up - research & communicate your findings to family & friends
- Give - volunteer time & donate money to the Canadian Foodgrains Bank
- Share - notify MP's & MLA's of your concerns regarding hunger
- Advocate - contact the Prime Minister to support hunger initiatives
- Learn - keep informed about the issues & keep sharing it with others
- Watch - media for signs of hope & struggle
- Dispell - be a myth buster, avoid perpetuating stereotypes & prejudices
- Connect - extend compassion for hungry people at home & abroad
- Use - consume God's gifts of Creation wisely
- Pray - for an end to food injustice, hunger & oppression
Saturday, June 12, 2010
Room for More?
Day 7
Contrary to advice offered by TV personalities and trendy homemaker magazines, inviting guests for dinner is the simple act of sharing food around a table. It's not about matching china and napkin sculptures. Ironically, it is the poor who remind us about the gifts of hospitality, which has nothing to do with owning the perfect house or being the perfect host. In our culture we tend to avoid sharing of ourselves and our space. But when we make room for others at the table, for family, friends, strangers and even enemies, we make room for God in our lives. Like the Eucharist, a feast is a time to celebrate the gift of food. We are invited to the table of communion every day to imagine new ways to live, move, and have our being.
Small change? Invite someone new to share a simple meal with you this week.
Prayer: God who invites us to the feast, challenge us to widen our circles. Hebrews 13:1-3, 8-9, 16
With some restructuring to our food system, it is possible for the world to sustainably produce enough to feed our entire global family.
Contrary to advice offered by TV personalities and trendy homemaker magazines, inviting guests for dinner is the simple act of sharing food around a table. It's not about matching china and napkin sculptures. Ironically, it is the poor who remind us about the gifts of hospitality, which has nothing to do with owning the perfect house or being the perfect host. In our culture we tend to avoid sharing of ourselves and our space. But when we make room for others at the table, for family, friends, strangers and even enemies, we make room for God in our lives. Like the Eucharist, a feast is a time to celebrate the gift of food. We are invited to the table of communion every day to imagine new ways to live, move, and have our being.
Small change? Invite someone new to share a simple meal with you this week.
Prayer: God who invites us to the feast, challenge us to widen our circles. Hebrews 13:1-3, 8-9, 16
With some restructuring to our food system, it is possible for the world to sustainably produce enough to feed our entire global family.
Friday, June 11, 2010
How are We Connected?
Tropical fruits like bananas, coffee, and chocolate are available whenever we want. It's ironic that the majority of the people on the planet who are chronically hungry are small scale farmers, many who produce these items that we consume on a daily basis. Farming on a few acres for export rather than for their own families, many find it impossible to earn a fair price for their products. They are unable to compete with large multinational corporations that can access huge tracts of land, offer much higher volumes, and hence cheaper prices. Indebted countries often have no choice but to remove policies that protect local markets, and open their doors to a flood of foreign food in order to receive financial assistance. The very farm families that bring us our fixes, might be forced to sell their land and find work as low-paid factory or migrant workers. How can we be more mindful of these connections?
Small change? Instead of your regular coffee or chocolate fix, choose the fair trade alternative. If the shop doesn't carry it, ask them why not.
Prayer: God who connects us all, make us hungry for justice and a fuller life in You. Isaiah 58:6-7, 9-12
From the field or farm where it's grown to our dinner tables, the food we eat has travelled on average 2,400 kilometres passing through many hands along the way.
Small change? Instead of your regular coffee or chocolate fix, choose the fair trade alternative. If the shop doesn't carry it, ask them why not.
Prayer: God who connects us all, make us hungry for justice and a fuller life in You. Isaiah 58:6-7, 9-12
From the field or farm where it's grown to our dinner tables, the food we eat has travelled on average 2,400 kilometres passing through many hands along the way.
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Table for AnyONE?
Day 5
The ritual of meal-time has suffered a devolution - it has become an archaic notion. Food is something portable and convenient that we ingest when we can squeeze it in between the many concerns fighting for our daily attention. Somewhere along the way we've decided that cooking is a non-essential skill, that eating together isn't practical. Trading valuable time at the table and in the kitchen for TV dinners, vending machines, microwaveables and drive-thru windows, we want to be fed without schedule interference. Why? We have become extremely busy. In fact, we feel guilty if we are not busy. There is no longer any ceremonial requirement of us in our mealtimes save for a quick silent nod of thanks seconds before devouring our meal.
Small change? Today whenever you eat, join with others and say or sing grace. As you eat and talk, do nothing else to distract you from the experience.
Prayer: God who prepares the feast, stir patience and gratitude into our hearts. Amos 8:4-8, 11-12
Canadians eat a fast food meal 3 - 4 times a week (twice while driving), and spend a total of 46 minutes each day cooking AND eating.
The ritual of meal-time has suffered a devolution - it has become an archaic notion. Food is something portable and convenient that we ingest when we can squeeze it in between the many concerns fighting for our daily attention. Somewhere along the way we've decided that cooking is a non-essential skill, that eating together isn't practical. Trading valuable time at the table and in the kitchen for TV dinners, vending machines, microwaveables and drive-thru windows, we want to be fed without schedule interference. Why? We have become extremely busy. In fact, we feel guilty if we are not busy. There is no longer any ceremonial requirement of us in our mealtimes save for a quick silent nod of thanks seconds before devouring our meal.
Small change? Today whenever you eat, join with others and say or sing grace. As you eat and talk, do nothing else to distract you from the experience.
Prayer: God who prepares the feast, stir patience and gratitude into our hearts. Amos 8:4-8, 11-12
Canadians eat a fast food meal 3 - 4 times a week (twice while driving), and spend a total of 46 minutes each day cooking AND eating.
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
On Earth as it is In Heaven?
Day 4
Our connection to the earth is more than just the resources we consume. The costs of eating a tomato, chicken, or cow are more than calories or dollars and cents, but include the impact of its production, processing, packaging, transportation, and disposal on the rest of God's Creation. Was the air, soil, and water left richer or poorer for its cultivation? Choices we make now affect the present and future generations' ability to feed themselves. At this unprecedented moment in history the world population and available natural resources are ostensibly at odds, and we in Canada fall squarely into the category of the ones taking more than our fair share. Changing climates here and across the oceans are a signal that we simply cannot continue to live this way, and live up to the responsibility that God has given all of us.
Small change? Fast from food today as much as you are able. Do drink water, or if necessary, juice. Spend time in reflection with others or alone - outdoors if possible. Share a prayer for the hungry around the table over the supper hour.
Prayer: God who plants and reaps, inspire us to tread more lightly on the Earth. Genesis 1:26-31
Imagine a river that circles the globe 180 times. This is the amount of water it takes each year to produce the 7,000+ species of plants that are cultivated or harvested as food for the planet.
Our connection to the earth is more than just the resources we consume. The costs of eating a tomato, chicken, or cow are more than calories or dollars and cents, but include the impact of its production, processing, packaging, transportation, and disposal on the rest of God's Creation. Was the air, soil, and water left richer or poorer for its cultivation? Choices we make now affect the present and future generations' ability to feed themselves. At this unprecedented moment in history the world population and available natural resources are ostensibly at odds, and we in Canada fall squarely into the category of the ones taking more than our fair share. Changing climates here and across the oceans are a signal that we simply cannot continue to live this way, and live up to the responsibility that God has given all of us.
Small change? Fast from food today as much as you are able. Do drink water, or if necessary, juice. Spend time in reflection with others or alone - outdoors if possible. Share a prayer for the hungry around the table over the supper hour.
Prayer: God who plants and reaps, inspire us to tread more lightly on the Earth. Genesis 1:26-31
Imagine a river that circles the globe 180 times. This is the amount of water it takes each year to produce the 7,000+ species of plants that are cultivated or harvested as food for the planet.
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
Need a New Image?
Day 3
A preoccupation with eating and looking a certain way pervades our culture. We are told by the media, the diet industry and each other, that if we look great, and fit the mould, we'll feel great. Obsession with body image affects everyone - we share in the collective shame of failing to treat the body as a temple of the Spirit. The food that we are meant to enjoy instead rules over us. We are left lonely or estranged, with a deep yearning that leads some of us to compulsive eating or not eating, food fetishism, and fad-dieting. When we eat in such a way that honours our bodies and God's plans for them our yearning is satisfied. By coming back to our Creator, in whose image we were created, male and female, we are made whole.
Small change? Look deeply and recognize a craving - whatever it may be - as it comes to you. As honestly as possible contemplate its' source. Share this with a trusted friend.
Prayer: God who sculpts everything in beauty, help us to see ourselves through your eyes. Luke 12:22-29
The diet industry posts record profits, while almost half our country is considered obese, and eating disorders like anorexia and bulimia are the 3rd most chronic illness in adolescents.
A preoccupation with eating and looking a certain way pervades our culture. We are told by the media, the diet industry and each other, that if we look great, and fit the mould, we'll feel great. Obsession with body image affects everyone - we share in the collective shame of failing to treat the body as a temple of the Spirit. The food that we are meant to enjoy instead rules over us. We are left lonely or estranged, with a deep yearning that leads some of us to compulsive eating or not eating, food fetishism, and fad-dieting. When we eat in such a way that honours our bodies and God's plans for them our yearning is satisfied. By coming back to our Creator, in whose image we were created, male and female, we are made whole.
Small change? Look deeply and recognize a craving - whatever it may be - as it comes to you. As honestly as possible contemplate its' source. Share this with a trusted friend.
Prayer: God who sculpts everything in beauty, help us to see ourselves through your eyes. Luke 12:22-29
The diet industry posts record profits, while almost half our country is considered obese, and eating disorders like anorexia and bulimia are the 3rd most chronic illness in adolescents.
Monday, June 7, 2010
A Penny Saved?
Day 2
Just over 1 million Canadians shop at Wal-Mart every day. Distracted by infinite choices in low cost luxuries like fashion, DVD's, cosmetics, countless electronic toys and plastic gadgets - we go through these items so quickly that our second hand stores have become burgeoning industries and our landfills are overflowing. Many have proclaimed such wastefulness as sin, and we are indeed guilty of it. Beneath every rationalized purchase is a justification that we can afford it and it is somehow beneficial to our lives. The reality is that we enjoy very inexpensive food, and can therefore afford to spend our hard earned cash however we please. In comparison many less wealthy countries are feeling the strain of rising food prices, paying 80% of their monthly incomes for food. What is the true cost of low food prices and who pays?
Small change? Calculate 1% of your monthly income. Discuss with others how you could allocate this amount to promote food justice and end hunger.
Prayer: God, who speaks through the poor, grant us the knowledge that we have enough, and the courage to seek You first. Matthew 6:19-24
We in Canada take advantage of some of the lowest grocery bills in the world, spending only 10.2% of our monthly income on food and drink.
Just over 1 million Canadians shop at Wal-Mart every day. Distracted by infinite choices in low cost luxuries like fashion, DVD's, cosmetics, countless electronic toys and plastic gadgets - we go through these items so quickly that our second hand stores have become burgeoning industries and our landfills are overflowing. Many have proclaimed such wastefulness as sin, and we are indeed guilty of it. Beneath every rationalized purchase is a justification that we can afford it and it is somehow beneficial to our lives. The reality is that we enjoy very inexpensive food, and can therefore afford to spend our hard earned cash however we please. In comparison many less wealthy countries are feeling the strain of rising food prices, paying 80% of their monthly incomes for food. What is the true cost of low food prices and who pays?
Small change? Calculate 1% of your monthly income. Discuss with others how you could allocate this amount to promote food justice and end hunger.
Prayer: God, who speaks through the poor, grant us the knowledge that we have enough, and the courage to seek You first. Matthew 6:19-24
We in Canada take advantage of some of the lowest grocery bills in the world, spending only 10.2% of our monthly income on food and drink.
Sunday, June 6, 2010
Are We What We Eat?
I mentioned the Canadian Foodgrains Bank yesterday and I got a little booklet from them about 1.5 years ago called "Fast for Change - 7 Days of Food for the Soul" (www.fastforchange.ca). You can request this booklet for yourself, but I've also decided to highlight it in my blog this week. I warn you that these are not easy areas of change - I struggle to find a balance for myself. "Fast for Change" not only challenges us to examine our views of food but other issues of excess in our western society.
Day 1
We owe our existence and our every movement to those carbs, minerals, proteins, cholesterol and chemicals available in the Garden where God placed us. We've never seen so much and so many kinds of food. Scanning the labels, our minds ponder long scientific ingredient lists for the valuable elements of our current mythology. Processed breakfast cereal is an example of how confused and obsessed we are with the multiplicity of information, losing much of our own knowledge of the goodness in whole, natural foods, and gaining a host of artificial colours and sweeteners - and a free toy inside. Are we finding value in our value-added food or simply a full stomach at the cost of taste and nutrition?
Small change? Discuss with your household one whole food item you can add to your menu and abandon the packaged, pre-processed option.
Prayer: God who calls us into an everlasting covenant, give us rich food for our bodies and our souls. Isaiah 55:1-6
The average Canadian consumes more than 2,900 calories per person every day, that's 38% more than the World Health Organization requires for good health.
Day 1
We owe our existence and our every movement to those carbs, minerals, proteins, cholesterol and chemicals available in the Garden where God placed us. We've never seen so much and so many kinds of food. Scanning the labels, our minds ponder long scientific ingredient lists for the valuable elements of our current mythology. Processed breakfast cereal is an example of how confused and obsessed we are with the multiplicity of information, losing much of our own knowledge of the goodness in whole, natural foods, and gaining a host of artificial colours and sweeteners - and a free toy inside. Are we finding value in our value-added food or simply a full stomach at the cost of taste and nutrition?
Small change? Discuss with your household one whole food item you can add to your menu and abandon the packaged, pre-processed option.
Prayer: God who calls us into an everlasting covenant, give us rich food for our bodies and our souls. Isaiah 55:1-6
The average Canadian consumes more than 2,900 calories per person every day, that's 38% more than the World Health Organization requires for good health.
Saturday, June 5, 2010
Hunger
Over the past week or so I've been reminded about the issue of hunger. The Amnesty group at the high school had a coffee house aptly named "Got Bread?" and the money they collected went to the local food bank. The following night they did the 30 Hour Famine (through WorldVision) - breaking bread together just before fasting together sounds pretty profound to me! Then on the news this week I heard about Hunger Awareness Day (hungerawarenessday.ca). Tomorrow we have a speaker from the Canadian Foodgrains Bank (www.foodgrainsbank.ca) coming to speak to our church.
We are so incredibly blessed in Canada and I believe God has called us to be faithful and responsible in using our resources. Nothing is accomplished if we choose to ignore the problem or feel guilty about the abundance we have. Rather we must take action - whether it's buying locally grown produce, supporting fair trade, simply using less, or supporting the local food bank in donations or through volunteering our time.
We are so incredibly blessed in Canada and I believe God has called us to be faithful and responsible in using our resources. Nothing is accomplished if we choose to ignore the problem or feel guilty about the abundance we have. Rather we must take action - whether it's buying locally grown produce, supporting fair trade, simply using less, or supporting the local food bank in donations or through volunteering our time.
Friday, June 4, 2010
Reality Bites
Time to face reality, acceptance must come and denial must fade. . .the little buggers are back (mosquitoes, that is)! After a perfect spring melt, sun and warm temps hit us early this year. But then the rains came and they have rarely ceased to stop in the last month or so. With so much water sitting around, mosquitoes were inevitable, but nonetheless, it is still so disappointing. We only have a few days in the year that are perfect - the air is warm, the wind is calm and there are no bugs around. But alas, those perfect days are behind us and the bugs have returned with a vengeance!
Thursday, June 3, 2010
Explore Manitoba
My cousin Julie, having grown up in Ontario, used to joke around that if you got lost in Manitoba, all you had to do was get out of your car, climb on top of it, look around and figure out where you are (it's that flat). I do live in a valley - a valley between hills, not mountains - and so at some point, the landscape has to change. And it does - it just usually takes a bit of driving. By far, the best part of living on the prairie is the amazing sky which extends right down to the flat horizon, especially for the sunsets. I was also reminded the other day (because I missed them last year) of the awesome lightning that comes with a summer storm.
Anyway, I do love to get out and explore my province and today I had the chance to head out east to a part of the province I had never been to before to visit my cousin Josie and her family at her new place and present my 2nd Jolica party. Slowly but surely the flat prairie gave way to more trees and even a marsh before I arrived. Just another beautiful part of this province, with so much more to explore!
Anyway, I do love to get out and explore my province and today I had the chance to head out east to a part of the province I had never been to before to visit my cousin Josie and her family at her new place and present my 2nd Jolica party. Slowly but surely the flat prairie gave way to more trees and even a marsh before I arrived. Just another beautiful part of this province, with so much more to explore!
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
Water School
"The most effective vaccine against child death in Africa
is a glass of clean water."
Please check out www.thewaterschool.org and www.sodis.ch for more information on this remarkable system, providing safe water through solar disinfection using ordinary plastic bottles, a hard surface and the free UV rays of the sun!
"Knowing that children are often agents of change, solar disinfection is typically implemented through schools. As children stop getting sick due to water borne diseases because they are consuming only purified water, the technology is transferred into their homes and adopted by the family. . .Within 35° latitude of the equator (the complete continent of Africa), the sun’s UV rays, a hard surface, and clear bottles are all that is needed to change filthy surface water from deadly and undrinkable to pure, safe, and life altering. Contaminated water is poured into clear plastic bottles and then left in the sun. Once one full sunny day or two full cloudy days has passed, the cleansed water is ready and safe to be consumed."
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
Justice and Mercy
music & lyrics: Joshua Reuben Fritz
'Till every hungry soul is fed
'Till every orphan has a home
'Till the lost and broken are comforted
We will work with diligence
In the Spirit of power and unity
The poor and oppressed we will satisfy
and the needy,
We will spend ourselves on their behalf
And our light will break forth like the dawn
And our healing will quickly appear
Let it rain down
Justice and Mercy
Justice and Mercy
'Till every nation's peace is kept
and every child's innocence
'Till infants no longer sacrificed
We will labour into the night
In the Spirit of power and unity
The poor and oppressed we will satisfy
and the needy,
We will spend ourselves on their behalf
And our light will break forth like the dawn
And our healing will quickly appear
Let it rain down
Justice and Mercy
Justice and Mercy
'Till every hungry soul is fed
'Till every orphan has a home
'Till the lost and broken are comforted
We will work with diligence
In the Spirit of power and unity
The poor and oppressed we will satisfy
and the needy,
We will spend ourselves on their behalf
And our light will break forth like the dawn
And our healing will quickly appear
Let it rain down
Justice and Mercy
Justice and Mercy
'Till every nation's peace is kept
and every child's innocence
'Till infants no longer sacrificed
We will labour into the night
In the Spirit of power and unity
The poor and oppressed we will satisfy
and the needy,
We will spend ourselves on their behalf
And our light will break forth like the dawn
And our healing will quickly appear
Let it rain down
Justice and Mercy
Justice and Mercy
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