Ever have one of those moments where you became painfully aware that a trait you disliked in someone else is exactly the same trait you have? It seems to just flip the tables of your understanding and blindside you. For one, it shows a total lack of awareness and how off base your judgement can be in regards to yourself. The other feeling that seems to come is one of understanding and then a little bit of self-loathing and a desire for forgiveness too. Why is it so easy to see the fault of another? Jesus’ analogy of the mote and beam take on a new meaning. You might be able to still see a sliver in someone as you look past that beam in front of your own face but become so used to that beam that it just becomes part of the picture like the rims of your glasses. Guess I need my eyes checked again, literally and figuratively.
Monthly Archives: February 2008
Ever reread your own blog?
I’ve been doing this blogging thing for nearly four years now and haven’t really sifted through any of my old posts. Some bloggers are creative in linking to their past writing, which I presume means they are taking the time to reflect on their body of work. I initially started blogging primarily to allow this type of reflection. But thus far I feel more of an urge to add more content then look back at the past. I’ve set a lot of goals and aspirations in this space, some of which I’m sure are still a work in progress or forgotten. I’m not going to let the fear of regret stop me however. In fact, I think I’m going to start digging up trends, bring unfinished business back to the forefront and reflect on some favourite posts. Nothing comes to mind as I write this, I’m looking forward to some surprises!
Nephi is Amazing
The first chapters of the Book of Mormon are truly a treasure, even despite having read them dozens of times in the past. What is so refreshing is how stimulating the Book of Nephi really is. I find as I read the verses they are so rich. It is interesting to me how in summarizing the Book of Nephi we tend to focus on the migration of Lehi’s family rather then on the intensely spiritual and family-centric nature of the book. In fact, the whole Book of Mormon gives a far more relationship oriented approach to scripture then the majority of all other canons of scripture. And yet the doctrine is all there to be had wide out in the open. As to it’s authenticity, I think the first four chapters of Nephi are among the most compelling. Certainly I would also include King Benjamin’s words in the early chapters of the Book of Mosiah, and selected chapters of the Books of Alma and Third Nephi, as well as the gripping sadness found in Mormon and Moroni. I also find this genuine sense strikes harder any time Mormon chimes in with his summary narrative commentary. Some of these chapters are also doctrinally rich but I’m speaking more to the sense of wonderment I feel that these are real chapters of history, and even an analytical like me cannot escape that sense of real authorship that comes through. As I move through the text over the next 97 days I will be highlighting my favourite portions of this book that changed(s) my life.
Flat Tire
I had a flat-tire this weekend on my way back home from Edmonton. The weather was extremely cold and I was grateful to have 24-hr free roadside assistance. Trying to change in tire in minus 35 weather is definitely low on my list of things to do. In fact it isn’t even on the list!
I have yet to meet anyone who has this type of auto service that regrets paying for it. Inevitably it always comes in handy. Contrast this to insurance. This past week we have made a claim due to some flooding in our house. I opted for a bigger deductible ($1000) for a lower monthly payment. The work will amount to some $3000ish dollar yet somehow I’m not as elated or grateful for this purchased service or the savings. I also begrudge auto insurance. However, I’m sure that those who haven’t purchased home insurance feel regret for lack of coverage.
I’ve become a warrior
I was recently sent a link to the Hinckley Challenge. The challenge urges visitors to honour President Gordon B. Hinckley by reading the Book of Mormon in 97 days, the number of years President Hinckley lived. I truly felt a connection (and still do) to this great man of faith. I’ve been wanting to read the Book of Mormon again for some time.
I’m in.
Are you?
