Savoring Servant

Weather on steroids

2012-03-05T05:30:00.000-06:00

2011 tornado damage
in north Minneapolis

The outbreak of over 100 tornados throughout a large section of the southern United States at such an early date had me thinking about the impact of global climate change. Turns out Paul Douglas, a meteorologist with over 30 years of experience, recently wrote about this on his "On Weather" blog. Following are a few of his recent entries....

What Is Going On? I'm temporarily speechless. A speechless meteorologist? Oxymoron. I'm watching tornado coverage on CNN, scanning the SPC web site. 101 tornadoes on Friday. Unusual, even for late April.

If I didn't know better I'd say Mother Nature is having a loud, violent nervous breakdown. America's weather has always been severe but this is awe-inspiring, and very sad. The Symphony of Seasons is playing wildly out of tune; a Beethoven Concerto with a rap-funk beat. Not. Right.

Suddenly the weather maps make no sense. Mile-wide tornadoes, epic floods, drought; flowers already in bloom in New England? We'll see 50 by Tuesday here in the Twin Cities metro; the GFS hints at highs near 70 by mid-March. We seem to have skipped a month. Maybe two.

Tornado victims

A warmer atmosphere holds more water, more fuel for storms. 2010 was Minnesota's wettest year on record. We also saw 145 tornadoes. Coincidence? I don't think so.

Uh oh, I feel a climate change lecture coming on. Spare us a Sunday Sermon, Paul. Why remind us? Because, after looking at the data and listening very carefully to peer-reviewed climate scientists (not blustery radio talk show hosts) climate change will almost certainly be one of the 3 big stories of the 21st century. Because someday your grandkids may come up and ask what you knew....when... and what you did about it.

Outbreaks of bizarre weather are a symptom - our atmosphere is running a slight, low-grade fever. If you're not at all concerned you're not paying attention.

Americans Get It: Global Warming Is Poisoning Our Weather. Poison is a strong word - I still prefer the "weather on steroids" metaphor. We've always had severe storms, but having a warmer, wetter atmosphere floating overhead increases the fundamental odds of wild weather. The story from Think Progress: "Killer tornadoes are marking the transition from a freakishly warm winter into yet another freakishly dangerous spring. The multi-billion-dollar drought in Texas and Oklahoma is expected to continue into the indefinite future. Planting seasons, maple syrup seasons, and cherry blossom festivals are starting at weirder and weirder times. Torrential rains and record heat waves are becoming commonplace. Migrating birds are straying from their normal path, insect pests are multiplying, and trees are dying. Americans are starting to trust the evidence of their own senses about the growing impacts of climate change, instead of the barrage of misinformation and confusion that comes from media sources."

Why The Global Warming Skeptics Are Wrong. If you read one story about the (manufactured) controversy over climate change, read this essay from William Nordhaus at the New York Review Of Books. Here's an excerpt: "One might argue that there are many uncertainties here, and we should wait until the uncertainties are resolved. Yes, there are many uncertainties. That does not imply that action should be delayed. Indeed, my experience in studying this subject for many years is that we have discovered more puzzles and greater uncertainties as researchers dig deeper into the field. There are continuing major questions about the future of the great ice sheets of Greenland and West Antarctica; the thawing of vast deposits of frozen methane; changes in the circulation patterns of the North Atlantic; the potential for runaway warming; and the impacts of ocean carbonization and acidification. Moreover, our economic models have great difficulties incorporating these major geophysical changes and their impacts in a reliable manner. Policies implemented today serve as a hedge against unsuspected future dangers that suddenly emerge to threaten our economies or environment. So, if anything, the uncertainties would point to a more rather than less forceful policy—and one starting sooner rather than later—to slow climate change."

Hooray for driveway sealant improvements

2012-03-04T05:30:00.000-06:00

It was great to read about the nation's largest driveway-selaing company, Jet-Black, deciding to stop its using coal-tar-based sealants. These sealants were releasing chemical pollution into the stormwater system and ending up contaminating ponds and rivers. The coal-tar-based sealants degrade into polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), which are linked to cancer.

Co-owner of Jet-Black, Nick Kelso, understood that coal-tar products were emitting pollution based on scientific evidence. Hats off to Mr. Kelso and others at Jet-Black for their efforts to reduce water pollution.

To read more about this topic check out the article, Minnesota sealant firm takes stand versus pollution, in the StarTribune.

Perils of outsourcing bus drivers

2012-03-03T05:26:00.000-06:00

Earlier this week I wrote and sent the following commentary to District 281 school board members regarding their upcoming vote on whether to outsource the school busing to a large company called First Student. It seems that through outsourcing we are rapidly losing our country's middle class.

Two thumbs down for a proposal being considered by theRobbinsdale School District to privatize busing. Such a proposed cost saving would help toshrink an already endangered working middle class. Let’s consider, from whosepocket will the potential $1.4 million in cost cutting come? It would be the busdrivers and mechanics losing benefits and job security.

So what, you might ask.

It is the drivers that both help our kids start and endtheir school days on a positive note. Outsourcing and the related cutting ofbenefits will only add stress to the challenging job of our school bus drivers. I don’t think it serves us well to add morestress to the lives of those whom we entrust to drive our community’s mostprecious cargo. As a parent in the Robbinsdale School District I’ve beenimpressed with the quality of bus drivers, who have been friendly, prompt,reliable and safe.

I hope that the school district will maintain theiroutstanding crew of drivers and refrain from the cheaper alternative ofoutsourcing to a large private company. There is a significant price to be paid for such cost savings, both byour drivers, their families and our children. Let’s not throw our children’sdrivers under the bus.

Pictures from the gutter

2012-03-02T06:49:00.003-06:00

Close up of ice in gutter

Ice crystals

Geometric ice patterns

Ice transitioning to water in gutter

I was drawn to the melting water in the street gutter while on a walk yesterday morning. Ever since I was a kid the flowing water and the natural dams that formed along the side of the street intrigued me. As a boy I felt compelled to blast open those dams with my rubber rain boots. Sadly I didn't find any dams that needed exploding on my walk, but I did spot some miniature water falls, developed from layers of freezing water along the roadside.

Icy abstract from a street gutter

Snowy day

2012-03-01T05:30:00.000-06:00

Yesterday we had our snowiest day of the winter, after rain the night before. To enlarge a picture simply click on it.

Snow covered Linden

Snowy branches in ice

View of Bassett Creek holding pond

River Birch with snow

The beauty of a simple wardrobe

2012-02-29T05:30:00.000-06:00

Plenty of shirts

Last week I viewed the movie "The Devil Wears Prada" on television. It was a great commentary of the lure of high fashion and how living to keep up with the latest fashion trends can warp a person's values and priorities. In the case of the movie the lead character finally rejects her job in the cut throat world of fashion to revert back to her comfortable clothes and old friends.

I came across an article, "Adventures in Fashion: Six Items or Less", that advocates radically simplifying one's wardrobe. Turns out that one of the participants with a large wardrobe discovered that her colleagues from work and even her husband didn't notice when she switched to the six item wardrobe. Another participant commented on how it freed up "bandwidth in his head", not having to spend precious time in the morning trying to figure out what to wear.

Lots of sweaters

The Uniform Project was started by a designer in New York a couple of years ago. The founder of this project helped to raise well over $1,000 for a nonprofit serving underprivileged children in India. She wore the same black dress for a year, but added a wide range of accessories to keep it interesting. You can view her video at the Uniform project's website, and view the amazing creative things she did to complement the little black dress.

Speaking truth to power

2012-02-28T05:30:00.000-06:00

At church this past Sunday we began a study on the amazing life of Martin Luther, a founder of the Protestant reformation. Despite the unquestioning authority demanded by the Pope and the Catholic Church, he followed his heart and mind, and by so doing dared to question the sales of indulgences, among other things.

Yesterday I read a daring article, "What to do about Rick Santorum? by Brian Rosenberg, the President of Macalester College. Despite the potential fall out by wealthy donors to the college he felt personally and professional responsible to speak out regarding remarks made by Santorum that questioned the value of science in the area of the global warming debate and who also suggested higher education is an indoctrination mill and harms the country.

You may or may not agree with such rebels as Martin Luther or Brian Rosenberg, but I think you must, in some way, admire their conviction and willingness to take significant risk based on their firmly held religious and educational convictions.

The Oscars and people of importance

2012-02-27T07:16:00.002-06:00

How many of the past 10 year's Oscar award winners can you remember? While last night's Academy Awards seemed like such a momentous occasion, the importance and focus quickly fades as we all move on with our lives. It really doesn't have lasting significance.

Think about the people that have mattered in your life. If you're like me those people are most likely to be teachers, family members, coaches, neighbors, and others who you know really cared about you and who were willing to invest in you future.

Most of us are not likely ever going to win an Oscar award, but we can have an even greater impact in the life of another person by simply showing them we care. We do this by listening, encouraging, teaching, challenging and simply being there for them over time. Who needs an Oscar, when we can be a real hero to a child in a neighborhood school through tutoring, or by visiting a shut in from our place of worship or spending time listening to a family member going through a rough time?

Lyndale Park Rose and Peace Gardens

2012-02-26T06:40:00.000-06:00

Hats of to William King and his wife Caroline who donated the land on the shores of Lake Harriet, Lyndale Park and the King's Highway. In 1883 he lead the charge against considerable resistance in the creation of the Minneapolis Park Act. After the approval of the Park Act by referendum Mr. King had the following to say... The intelligence, the pride, the public spirit and the humanity of our people have at last been vindicated. That mean, wicked and cruel spirit of selfishness and greed which for so many years has obstructed and defeated every effort to endow our city with public parks, has, at length, been overcome by the uprising and better sentiment and nobler spirit of our citizens.

Only count the sunny days ;-)

11:00 on the sun dial, an accurate reading

Cone flower heads in winter mode

Peaking through the snow

Waiting for spring

Beautifully awaiting spring...

More information about the history of the Minneapolis Parks is available on the internet at "Parks, Lakes, Trails and So Much More: An overview of the histories of MPRB properties. "

Overcoming fear

2012-02-25T06:46:00.000-06:00

Fear is a hot commodity these days. Looking at today's StarTribune I was reminded of this with their leading headline "Iran stockpile fuels new fears". It was this sort of fear that lead to our nation into its preemptive war in Iraq.

Rick Steves suggested we ought to at least go and visit some of these countries before we drop bombs on them. Sadly too much of our nation's military action has been been based on unfounded speculation and fear. Fear keeps us from getting to know others that look differently than we do or who may be from other political backgrounds or faith traditions.

Fear and negativity also seem to be winning the day in political campaigning. Republican candidates are constantly speaking badly and spreading fear of their fellow Republican candidates and President Obama. Don't really know what they are for, but they certainly seem to be against an awful lot.

We diminish our human potential by living in fear. Following are some quotes relating to this subject and which encourage us to live courageously.

If we let things terrify us, life will not be worth living. - Seneca

Courage is not the absence of fear, but rather the judgement that something else is more important than fear. - Ambrose Redmoon

For God gave us not a spirit of fearfulness; but of power and love and discipline - 2 Timothy 1:17

Life shrinks or expands in proportion to one's courage - Anais Nin

Only those who will risk going too far can possibly find out how far one can go. - T.S. Elliot

Travel as a political act by Rick Steves

2012-02-24T08:27:00.002-06:00

Rick Steves at Westminster Presbyterian Church

Six months of travel abroad for all students after completing High School is something travel expert Rick Steves recommended to redirect the United States on a better political course for the future. This idea was presented in response to a question at the end of Mr. Steve's presentation "Travel as a political act" at the Westminster Town Hall Forum. He discussed the benefits of gaining insights from the lives and cultures of others who do things differently around the world. His talk was broadcast on Minnesota Public Radio.

Statuary outside of
Westminster Presbyterian

Rick discovered an important example misunderstanding of language and culture while traveling in Iran. When caught in traffic his taxi cab driver shouted out "death to traffic". Seems this is simply a statement of frustration, much as a parent might say "death to teenagers" when rooms aren't picked up, loud music is blaring and homework isn't done. Here in the US we've taken this expression to mean something much different, and are spending tremendous financial and human resources on the military. This fear of others is in large part contrived by the media and political leaders and is perpetuated by our lack of understanding of other nations around the world.

Did you know that about 1/3 of the world uses knives, forks and spoons for eating, 1/3 chopsticks and 1/3 use their God given tools... fingers! Asian cooking is done in such a thoughtful way so that the one eating a meal need not go to the added effort of using a knife to cut up their food.

Travel that is off the beaten path and engages one with the local people is a fantastic way to reduce ethnocentric and often misguided perceptions of our global neighbors.

Given the great costs of travel, both financial and on our carbon footprints, I would suggest we can also learn a great deal from the refugees and immigrants that have come to settle in the United States. Sadly many are never invited in to the homes of American neighbors and would love to both learn more about this culture and to share something of their own.

Fighting for the voiceless

2012-02-23T05:30:00.000-06:00

Preparing to fight ;-)

We were encouraged to be a voice for the voiceless at our Ash Wednesday service yesterday at Valley of Peace Lutheran. Our pastor, Chris Bellefeuille, noted that voiceless include those without political clout and yes, even our increasingly endangered environment.

Last Sunday a friend from church shared an article about Dr. John Abraham, an engineering professor from the University of St. Thomas, who dared to challenge a vocal climate-change skeptic (John Abraham takes a stand). Name calling an a threat of a lawsuit resulted when Dr. Abraham took on this skeptic's highly questionable statements.

Blessed are they that are persecuted for speaking truth to power. This lenten season I would encourage us all to be advocates and fight for those who have little voice or power, especially our endangered environment.

PS This is a fun picture I posed for. I managed to get 11 stitches to the eye from a boot hockey incident this past Saturday. Wish I could say the black eye was from doing battle for social justice.

Fractal patterns in music

2012-02-22T06:17:00.000-06:00

Fractal ice pattern

Earlier in the year I posted pictures of ice cracks that reflected nature's fractal patterns. So, it was with great excitement that I learned researchers at McGill University discovered all musical pieces also reflect fractal patterns, where a part has a limited repetition of the whole (The beat goes on: the geometry that makes music pleasing). These fractal patterns in rhythm were more strongly recognizable in Beethoven and least likely predictable in Mozart. Turns out the fractal rhythmic patterns were almost identical in works composed by Monteverdi and Joplin.

Ice cracks that look like dendrites

It is now believed that our brains are wired to both perceive and produce fractal patterns, not only in the three dimensions of space, but also across the time spectrum. Seems to me the left and right lobes of our brains are a great example of a fractal pattern, with the intricate patterns which contain millions of neurons. The fractal ice patterns pictured both remind me of our nervous system's synapses and dendrites. Dr. Daniel Levitin's research was published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

Support for solar and wind power

2012-02-21T05:30:00.000-06:00

Wind turbine at MN State
Fair Eco building

Even in a strongly capitalistic society, such as the United States, it is nice to see people would be willing to pay more for clean power sources than those that are more harmful to the environment. An article in the StarTrbune, Solar, wind get strong support in Midwestern poll, noted that a majority of people in four Midwestern states would pay up to $6 more per month on electrical bills for power coming from sources like solar and wind. A majority of those polled were opposed to hydraulic fracking to extract gas from shale.

The Lutheran reformation continues

2012-02-20T05:30:00.000-06:00

I've often felt the Lutheran church is trapped in traditions around its liturgical worship style and music. It felt like that the radical movement Martin Luther started back in 1517 when he nailed his Ninety-Five Theses to the wall of a Catholic Church has since been cast in granite, as it became the Lutheran tradition.

Valley of Peace Lutheran Church

However this past week it was evidenced that there is still a reformational spirt within the Lutheran Church. Headline stores from the StarTribune these past couple of days included a story of a new female bishop (Svennungsen is new bishop of ELCA's Minneapolis synod) and an article indicating that the Minneapolis Area Synod of the ELCA re-soundly opposed a constitutional amendment restricting marriage between one man and one woman (Minneapolis-area Lutheran oppose marriage amendment0.

The United Church of Christ (UCC) had a national campaign a few years back declaring "God is still speaking". Seems that the Lutherans are in agreement with their friends in the UCC.

Jesus prescribed a radical lifestyle that often got him in trouble with the institutional church of his day. He re-prioritized the vast number of laws that were prescribed in the Old Testament, with the primary focus on loving God and neighbor above all else. However even given those new marching orders the institutionalized church has often been slow to change with scientific discoveries and new cultural understandings of human nature. I hope that Martin Luther, were he alive today, would be thrilled with the continuation of the reformation. And much more importantly that the radical Jewish leader, Jesus, is pleased to see more welcoming and inclusive followers.

Jevons paradox applied to leisure time

2012-02-19T06:49:00.002-06:00

Weed by Bassett Creek pond

Isn't it odd that with all of our time saving devises we seemed to be the most rushed people ever? Wikipedia states that Jevons paradox proposes that the technological progress that increases the efficiency with with a resource is used tends to increase (rather than decrease) the rate of consumption of that resource. It occurs to me an example of the Jevons paradox is how technology has increased our leisure time, yet seemingly we are living a less leisurely lifestyle than ever before. Think of all the time saving innovations we have had over the past couple hundred years; telephones, automobiles, washing machines, airline travel, computers, microwave ovens, email and twitter. Yet, who is more rushed and harried, people living in this century or those a couple of centuries back? I can't imagine that riding a horse and buggy would have been nearly the same experience as cruising down a busy highway with a bluetooth phone in ear trying to get some work done or keep up with family members. How much different it is sitting down together as a family conversing over a home cooked meal versus popping in a microwave dinner in the microwave for oneself, while watching the news on television and texting a friend.

There is truth in that old saying,"the hurrier I go, the behinder I get". We're going mighty fast these days, and I don't think it is helping us to live a fuller, more satisfying life. Paradoxically with all of our time saving devises we've become more like human doings and less like human beings.

Fuel efficiency alone is not the environmental solution

2012-02-18T05:30:00.000-06:00

Toyota Prius

In an interesting article by the Simplicity Institute, The Voluntary Simplicity Movement: A Multi-National Survey Analysis in Theoretical Context, I learned about the Jevons paradox. Somewhat paradoxically, simply through making technology more efficient we actually end up using more resources. So for example with our recent purchase of a fuel efficient Prius, the natural tendency is to drive more, given we don't need to spend as much on the price of gas. With more fuel efficient cars this then drives down the cost of fuel as demand decreases, and hence again, increases consumption, given the lower prices.
I have to confess that I've felt less compelled to walk or bike to get groceries now have a car that is getting over 40 m.p.g.

Prius instrument panel monitoring fuel consumption

Simply relying on advances in technology will not reduce our consumption of fuel and the related emissions of carbon dioxide and other pollutants. We still must have government intervention to help consumers reduce their demand. This intervention could come in the form of green taxes, a cap and trade program or higher fuel taxes. Ideally these taxes could then help to remediate the ecological damage caused by our fuel use.
There is growing interest in a "green tax" that would be on carbon emissions. It has been estimated that the median incremental damage to our environment is $14 per ton of carbon, but some estimates go as high as $350 per ton. The average North American generates about 20 metric tons of carbon dioxide each year. This compares to a global average of 4 tons.
Unlike our household garbage, that we can clearly see and measure, it is difficult for most people to be aware of their carbon dioxide emissions. If we are indeed serious about our emissions, we need to start measuring them and tax accordingly.

Creating lasting positive change

2012-02-17T05:30:00.000-06:00

Volunteering together at food shelf

Instead of seeking happiness after we've become successful, we're more likely to be productive if we develop habits that build happiness which in response lead to greater effectiveness. This concept was articulated by Shawn Achor in a Ted video "The happy secret to better work". With a positive brain our our dopamine level increases, which in turn causes a rise in our intelligence, creativity, and energy levels.

How is it that we can create a mindset of happiness? Mr. Achor notes the following methods utilized to creating lasting positive change:

Three Gratitudes (write down 3 new things for which we are thankful for each day, 21 days in row)
Journaling - writing about one positive experience over the course of the day
Exercise - releases dopamine into the brain
Meditation - helps to counteract over our cultural Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder
Random acts of kindness - e.g. daily write a positive email to someone your work/support circle

Valentine's Day rebooted as Generosity Day

2012-02-16T05:30:00.000-06:00

Serving line volunteers

If you haven't yet heard, there is a movement underfoot to transform Valentine's Day into Generosity Day! Little did I know this when I volunteered to fill in for a church member on February 14th to make a meal for those in need c/o Loaves and Fishes at River of Life Lutheran Church in north Minneapolis.

The goal of Generosity Day is to encourage all to give of themselves freely to those who come their way... by leaving generous tips, volunteering and or simply connecting with those who we might otherwise avoid.

Volunteers from Valley of Peace Lutheran
at Loaves and Fishes

After helping to cook and serve the meal at Loaves and Fishes I sat down with a couple of gentleman who had earlier been served. Our conversation drifted into religion and specifically observance of the Sabbath Day. I was blown away by the passionate discussion of faith and theology by these gentleman shared. Simply judging by their appearances I would have never guessed to be as theologically well read and passionate about their faith. Once again, just went to reinforce that sage advise that we shouldn't judge a book by its cover. Just imagine how people must have judged John the Baptist, who wondered in the wilderness in his camel hair clothing. It was this very John the Baptist Jesus chose to officiate his baptism.

Giving Cancer the Boot

2012-02-15T05:30:00.000-06:00

According to a recent reportfrom Harvard Medical School, physical exercise is for more than just losingweight and cutting down on health problems associated with obesity. Moreand more research shows that even mild regular walking can help patients with amultitude of different kinds of cancers, from breast cancer to mesothelioma.

Reductions in Recurrence

According to the Harvard study,it was found that women diagnosed with breast cancer who regularly walked threeto five hours a week were half as likely to experience a recurrence of theircancer than women who did engage in physical exercise for less than an hour perweek.

Another finding of this studyis that people who are active as part of their cancer treatment tend to have longer and better survival rates than individuals who simply did not engage in muchphysical activity at all.

Improved Mental Outlook

Aside from the obvious healthbenefits of improved flexibility, improved heart rate and improved strength,physical activity can provide you with other advantages. Many cancerpatients struggle with feelings of depression and anxiety when they receivetheir diagnosis. Traditionally, doctors have recommended that cancerpatients relax and take it easy as they go through chemotherapy and radiation. However, with recent studies, doctors are now taking another approachbecause of both the physical and mental health benefits that come with exerciseand physical activity.

Often, patients will reportthat they begin to feel better emotionally when they begin to become physicallyactive. From a scientific standpoint, this is because physical activitystimulates neurochemicals that make you feel emotionally and physically better.

You may also feel betterbecause it just feels good to be moving around and not stuck inside doingnothing. Physical activity does not need to be strenuous. Simplyputtering around in the garden or taking a walk down the block can be a goodstarting place. As you build your strength and stamina, you can begin todo other things, including activities that allow you to interact with friends andfamily.

Better Quality of Life

Being physically active alsoimproves your quality of life. Often, when you are feeling depressed andill, you isolate yourself from others. You may feel like you cannot dothings you used to enjoy and do not want to burden others. However, ifyou remain physically activity, you can continue to engage in activities thatyou enjoy. This will keep your attitude positive and help you see yourway through the dark days.

Better quality of life alsomeans that you retain some feeling of being in control of your illness. Through remaining physically active, you can feel like you have thestrength and the determination to fight your illness and win. So givecancer the boot and get moving toward feeling better.

--This entry was provided by "guest blogger" David Haas. Thanks David!

St. Valentine’s Day Flours

2012-02-14T05:30:00.000-06:00

A large pair of Valentine's Day flours

We’re a frugal couple, so my wife insisted I not purchaseflowers for her on Valentine’s Day. So, instead I decided to purchase a couple of large ‘heart healthy’ (high fiber) flours.

Toadd frosting on the cake, so to speak, I’ll bake a batch of chocolate chipcookies with some of this flour (a free recipe was on the side ofthe bag!)

We need not buy into the commercial nature of Valentine's Day to celebrate a day with people we love. Enjoy the day!

Empowering words by Newark Mayor Cory Booker

2012-02-13T05:30:00.000-06:00

Cory Booker

You were not born to be average, normal or typical.
You were not born a carbon copy.
You were born unique, born to excel, born to manifest the glory of the universe in your authentic truth.
You are not weak.
You are stronger than you imagine, wiser than you know, and have vast powers that you have yet to actualize.
Stop playing small.
Be YOU. Tell your truth - now, today, this very moment.
Manifest your true self - not a poor reflection of your circumstance.
Don’t walk through this world unconscious of your greatness, sleep walking, surrendering your light to the bland grey around you.
You were born to be brilliant,
to be light,
to be fire.
Infuse your glory into this moment, into your choices, into your deeds, into the habits you create.
Consciously choose.
Choose your body through conscious consumption,
Choose your attitude, through conscious thoughtyour destiny by being present right now – for remember mindful moments multiplied, totally transform tomorrows.
Today choose integrity, choose discipline, choose joy, choose joy, choose joy.
Rejoice in your blessings AND, most importantly, know that EVERYTHING is a blessing.
And your blessings are rich soil.
So choose to grow into the boldest, proudest, most glorious version of YOU.
You were born for this.
-Cory Booker, Mayor of Newark, NJ

Balanced fitness

2012-02-12T07:08:00.001-06:00

One of the things people tend to do is those things they enjoy and are good at, while avoiding activities that are less enjoyable and may not be as easily assimilated. As a runner I have a tendency to love endurance activities and stray from stretching and strength training.

When it comes to fitness there are three major components; strength, flexibility and endurance.

Walkers on a track in Taipei, Taiwan

Weight lifting, a form of resistance training, is one example of how we can develop strength. As people grow older it becomes increasingly important to work on strengthening exercises in order to slow the muscles tendency to waste away. Sit ups and push ups are a couple of strengthening exercises that don't require any equipment.

Flexibility is developed through stretching activities. Yoga and Tai Chi are great ways to stretch. In China and Taiwan it is great to witness groups of seniors that gather in the morning to do Tai Chi and other group exercises. It is nice to have the support of a group to reinforce the discipline that is needed for an exercise program.

Running, walking, biking and swimming are some common exercises that build endurance. Slow and steady is the key. Like most good things, endurance isn't achieved overnight.

Bedrock to developing physical fitness is proper nutrition. As noted previously, it is great to witness the national "Let's Move" campaign that is encouraging exercise and nutrition.

What are your strengths and weaknesses when it comes to fitness? Is there a group or perhaps one other individual you might commit to exercise? It may also help to have an personal exercise goal, such as completion of a marathon, swim across the English Channel or simply walk a few blocks around the neighborhood.

Let's Move turns two!

2012-02-11T05:30:00.000-06:00

First Lady Michelle Obama's national "Let's Move!" campaign to enhance the health of our nation celebrated its second anniversary this week. The primary emphasis has been on encouraging healthy eating and physical activity among our nation's young people. It was surprising and encouraging to see that the US Defense Department is also getting on board. They are updating their nutritional standards to add more fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean meats, and low-fat dairy products with every meal. Isn't it great when adults lead by example, and not the old standby "do as I say, not as I do".

I'll never forget watching the Minneapolis Police band play a concert at Lake Harriet. Based on their portly appearance it appeared that most of them had desk jobs and were not either eating or exercising properly. Sadly, a pretty fair representation of the general public. It is amazing to witness a Center for Disease Control and Prevention chart that shows the changing obesity (BMI > 30) rates among the states since 1985. We've gone from a nation where NONE of the states had rates of obesity over 20 percent to our current status where ALL of the state obesity rates are 20 percent or above, with many over 30 percent. Fully 34 percent of the adults in Mississippi are obese. This has staggering implications for quality of life, health care and worker productivity.

So, hat's off to the First Lady in her efforts to improve the health of our nation. Let's move!

Measuring our CO2 emissions

2012-02-10T07:09:00.000-06:00

Why aren't we measuring our emissions? My wife and I recently purchased a used Toyota Prius. It has a fuel gage that provides instantaneous readings of gas usage, along with a running average of miles per gallon (m.p.g.). It was amazing to see that even in the winter months, with a conservative driving technique, we averaged 42 m.p.g. on our first tank of gas.

This fuel gage has me thinking of emissions, which never get measured. What if we could each see our CO2 emissions when we're driving, or even at home when our furnace or hot water heater is running? A business friend of mine once commented that we only improve upon those things which we measure. If we're really serious about reducing emissions we should be keenly aware of what we are emitting, and be taxed accordingly, based on our output.

On a personal note, since hearing about the value of measuring progress I've made it a point to annually measure my IQ and height. Alas, as you might surmise, no improvements.

End of peak oil and transition towns

2012-02-09T06:33:00.000-06:00

How do we transition from peak oil to a future with less oil? According to Rob Hopkins, who is the founder of Transition Towns, suggests that the future with less oil could in fact be preferable to where we are now. A 52 minute YouTube interview with Rob Hopkins describes the concept of Transition Towns.

First step is to develop awareness of peak oil and the need for a transition in the community. The process requires engagement of the different sectors to develop a sense of resilience to withstand shocks/disasters. Local food production is a key component of Transition Towns.

One of the questions raised is how we can retrofit and rethink suburbia? This may involve utilizing the land for producing fruits and vegetables and redesigning large homes for multiple dwelling places.

Mr. Hopkins suggests that as environmentalists we need new tools in addition to activism, protest and lobbying to make the significant change. Internet communication and the utilization of research from field of addiction. Our addiction to oil requires a sense of urgency and an action plan.

Another reason to exercise; cellular housecleaning

2012-02-08T05:54:00.001-06:00

An article in the New York Times, Exercise as Housecleaning for the body, discusses how the removal of garbage that our body collects at the cellular level is enhanced through exercise. The process by which cells rid themselves of useless debris is called autophagy.

Some scientist suspect that ineffective autophagy might contribute to the development of diabetes, muscular dystrophy, Alzheimer's and cancer. It may also play a role in aging.

I'm thinking I need to cut this blog entry short.... I need to go for a run!

Hooray for the USA, we're eating less meat!

2012-02-07T05:30:00.000-06:00

Piglets at Minnesota State Fair

A report on National Public Radio noted that citizens of the USA are eating 12 percent less meat than we were five years ago. That said, we shouldn't boast too much about this trend, since Americans still eat about one-sixth of the total meat consumed in the world, despite that we're only one-twentieth of the population.

Why celebrate this reduction in meat eating? The environmental impact of meat production is tremendous. It is estimated that the meat industry contributes about 18 percent of global greenhouse-gas emissions. Methane and Nitrous Oxide, byproducts of meat production. have many times the global-warming potential than Carbon Dioxide. Another environmental concern is land degradation in the 30 percent of the world's land set aside for raising livestock. Finally, the amount of water needed to feed animals is greater than to simply grow grains, vegetables, legumes and fruits.

Cows grazing on farm near
Lanesboro, Minnesota

Because of the high environmental costs of raising livestock it is thought that this sector is one of the top two or three contributors to our local and global environmental concerns. Hence, it is good for the environment when we eat lower on the food chain. And, it is often better for our health too!

As our meat consumption declines I'm eager to watch a commercial from a national restaurant chain with the punch line of "Where's the tofu?"

Additional hoar frost photos

2012-02-06T07:10:00.001-06:00

Swamp milkweed

These photos were taken at Bassett Creek Park in Crystal, Minnesota. If you would like to see a larger view of a picture simply click on it with your mouse.

Cattail

Hoar frost

2012-02-05T06:24:00.002-06:00

Yesterday's damp cool weather created hoar frost on the plants.

Building Kinship

2012-02-04T08:38:00.000-06:00

"There is no us and them, there is only us". These insightful words come from Father Greg Boyle, a Jesuit priest that has dedicated his life to working with gangs in East L.A. . He spoke yesterday as a part of the Faith and Life lecture series at St. Philip the Deacon Lutheran Church in Plymouth, MN.

Father Boyle shared many touching and humorous stories of relationships fostered between gang members, who once were arch enemies, as they worked side by side with Homeboy Industries. His primary message was encouraging us to live by a simple mission shared by Jesus "That you may be one". He noted that we enter the Kingdom of God as we form relationships and help others to recognize that they are exactly what God had in mind when God made them. Working with many who have been disenfranchised, Father Boyle is about creating a community of kinship such that God might recognize it.

An interview with Father Greg Boyle, aka "G Dog" is available from Minnesota Public Radio.

Awe inspiring International Nordic Paralympic Games

2012-02-03T05:30:00.000-06:00

Canadian skier following guide

Polish champion

I was thrilled to observe the final day of the International Paralympic Nordic Games held at Theodore Wirth Park in Minneapolis. Skiers from many countries were competing in the following three race categories:

Visually impared
Standing (competitors with some form of physical disability, but who are able to stand on skis)
Sitting (amputees or athletes with paraplegia)

Much to my surprise I discovered that one of the Norwegian skiers was from Stord, the same island in Norway which was the home of some of my ancestors.

Some of the Norwegian contingent

This visually impaired skier from Canada was following her volunteer guide. The race guides all had microphones and speakers to communicate with the skiers behind them in order to provide direction regarding turns, hills and the like. Unbelievable balance, strength and skill was demonstrated by these skiers. Awe inspiring!

Join me on an information diet

2012-02-02T07:08:00.000-06:00

Just within the past week I decided that I was going to work at making fewer Google searches. One reason for this decision was concern about the site tracking done by Google on all of its users. But the biggest impetus for my decision came from the fact that I don't like spending too much time at the computer when there are scores of other things to do that I value more highly. I know that I can easily spend hours heading down a seemingly never ending worm hole searching for interesting bits of information on the internet. As noted in earlier blogs I also don't like many of the negative side effects of too much time on the internet (Impact of the internet on our brain).

I was delighted to read "Information Diet: We are what we eat" in this morning's paper from Clay Johnson, that was originally posted in the Los Angeles Times. He notes that much media content is designed to meet our tendency to be drawn to shrill opinions and celebrity hype. Even for someone who watches very little television I have to confess to knowing about a faux celebrity, Kim Kardashian, and a short sham marriage she had with a professional basketball player. This is the kind of sensational information that the media feeds upon, yet is entirely worthless.

Much like the media, food companies have capitalized on our natural tendencies to things that are not all together wholesome. They've successfully marketed products that help us to fulfill our natural cravings for fatty, sugary and salty foods. This has resulted in poor diets and the corresponding health problems of obesity, heart disease, diabetes, etc.

So, I invite you to join me in starting an information diet. Let's not feed the beast of sensationalism that is growing rapidly, thanks to our viewing habits. Instead, let's focus on information which has depth and nourishes our souls and minds.

Reducing our use of plastic bags

2012-02-01T05:00:00.000-06:00

Plastic bag caught
in tree branches

It was interesting to hear of the impact Andy Keller had on reducing his community's use of plastic bags on The Story of Stuff. One of the things he did was make reusable "ChicoBags", which he developed into a business. He also helped to generate awareness of the 500 bags the the average US citizen uses in one year. To do this Andy created the "Bagmonster" (pictured right) by adhering 500 plastic bags to himself to help make a visual image of the bags we use.

It was pointed out that simply recycling plastic bags is not the best solution. Often times these 'recycled' bags don't get properly recycled and sometimes are even burned.

Our household still needs practice to bring bags along when we go shopping. Old habits are hard to break, but not impossible! We can do our small part to minimize plastic waste. Let's be the change we want to see in the world.

Soda tax? Bring it on.

2012-01-31T07:10:00.002-06:00

I had lunch yesterday at north Minneapolis at a restaurant that didn't serve water. When I asked for a glass of water the owner pointed me to a cooler full of many different types of soda and a bottle or two of water. I managed to get the meal down beverage free.

Sadly, soda is the drink of choice for many, especially in poor urban areas. All too often when driving through the Northside in the morning I would see kids with a can of soda waiting at the bus stop. Thanks to soda, unhealthy foods and lack of exercise, we've got an epidemic of both obesity and diabetes. In my Pop/soda? Just say NO! blog I've got 15 reasons to avoid soda pop.

I was pleased to see an article in the paper this morning "Would you cut back on soda if you had to pay a tax on it?. It was discouraging however to see that the proposed tax would only be a penny per ounce and is already facing stiff opposition. Given its harmful effects on the health of our nation it seems to me it should be taxed along the lines of liquor.

It was estimated that the proposed tax would raise $13 billion a year in revenues while also saving $17 billion in medical costs, by diminishing the occurrence of heart disease and diabetes. What is not to like about that?

Seeking to understand other perspectives

2012-01-30T05:30:00.000-06:00

An editorial in the StarTribune begged the question "Higher ed leans left. But why? And so what?".

My immediate reaction was, why naturally academics lean to the left. Scholars tend to be well educated and inquisitive, why wouldn't they believe in things like evolution and global warming? However I also know and believe that there are many bright, caring and capable conservatives, who are not all easily painted with one big brush.

This editorial quotes social psychologist Jonathan Haidt, who observed "Our shared values make it difficult for us to entertain alternative hypotheses... We humans are experts at using reasoning to find evidence for whatever conclusions we want to reach. We are terrible at searching for contradictory evidence."

The growing choice of unfiltered media outlets provide opportunities for people to gather "news" that fits with their values and political leanings. If we are sincere about gaining a balanced and informed view of the world I would suggest it is critical for us to explore outlets that provide differing views from our natural inclinations. So rather than just listening, reading or viewing news sources that cater to our beliefs we stretch and grow by listening to differing perspectives. So folks who usually just watch FOX news might benefit from viewing MSNBC and vice versa.

While it is valuable to get news from varying sources, it is also important to check the validity of information we receive, especially over the internet. One source to check on the truth of urban legends is Snopes.com. I'm thankful for news sources, such as National Public Radio, that provide extensive, well grounded reporting.

Military needing to hold bake sale for bomber... NOT

2012-01-28T06:21:00.003-06:00

Headline news is that the United States military has made a small step to reduce its 2013 budget by proposing to congress a 1 percent decrease in spending ("Pentaagon to trim budget for first time in decade"). This would bring the Pentagon's budget down to $525 billion dollars. They're not likely to be holding bake sales for the purchase of bombers just yet.

One of the erie aspects of the new military is the increased use of unmanned vehicles, such as drones, that can attack an enemy without risking the lives of US troops. Some consider the use of drones to be unethical and illegal. Utilizing drones in countries where we are not at war is a point of concern for at least one former US government official...

“I think they do, because you cross a border and you go into a country with whom you are not at war under any definition known to man of war and you start to kill people with military implements and in some cases with military people pulling the trigger or pushing the button,” said Colonel Lawrence Wilkerson, former chief-of-staff for Colin Powell.

The problem with snap judgements

2012-01-27T05:35:00.001-06:00

Snap judgements, we make them all the time. It is often faster and more convenient to make quick decisions than to slowly work through additional information, whether we are shopping or even deciding if we should trust someone. The only problem with these snap decisions is that they might be ill informed and wrong.

Mark, a friend with whom I walk in the morning, shared a "simple" puzzle from a book by Dan Kahneman's book, "Thinking, Fast and Slow".

Here is the "simple" puzzle. Don't try to solve it logically, but rather listen to your intuition:

A bat and ball together cost a total of $1.10.

The bat costs one dollar more than the ball.

How much does the ball cost?

For most of us the number that comes to mind is 10 cents. This puzzle evokes and answer that is intuitive, appealing and wrong. Do the math and you'll see. If the ball costs $.10, then the total cost will be $1.20 ($.10 for the ball and $1.10 for the bat)--not $1.10. The correct answer is 5 cents.

Mr. Kahneman also notes how we tend to generalize from our experiences with the concept of "What you see is all there is" (WYSIATI). This method of making judgements provides an "illusion of validity", thus making it easy for us to develop broad generalizations from our limited experiences or information.

In a world where we are bombarded by information, this serves as a reminder to slow down in our decision making. It also challenges us to gather information from multiple sources, and allow time for the processing of information... that is at least if we hope to have a better chance of making a more accurate judgement.

New plant hardiness zones based on warmer temps

2012-01-26T05:30:00.000-06:00

Eastern Red Bud, now growing in northern climates

The impact of global warming has not gone unnoticed by farmers and gardeners. As a result of the warmer temperatures the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map has been updated.

A broadcast on Minnesota Public Radio discusses the impact on plants of a five degree warming in temperature.

The trend of warmer winters certainly was evidenced this year in the Twin Cities. January 19th, when it finally dipped below zero in the Twin Cities, was within a day of setting a record for the latest day of the winter with a temperature below zero.

Impact of the internet on our brain

2012-01-25T08:05:00.000-06:00

A brief article "15 ways the internet is changing our brain" suggests the internet has both beneficial and detrimental effects on the operation of our brains.

Benefits include:

We don't have to worry about remembering a lot of trivial information. We can store phone numbers, addresses, etc. on the computer and can quickly search for data on Google, or some other search engine.
We're better at being able to locate the information we need
Scores have increased on intelligence tests

Areas for concern:

We don't give things our full attention the way we once did. Increasingly people are multitasking; using social media, surfing the web, listening to music, etc.
Our memories have been weakened. We have lower rates of recall.
It is more difficult for us to concentrate. Deep reading is becoming increasingly difficult for many.
We're becoming physically addicted to the bombardment of stimulation provided by the internet.
Many of us become more interested and distracted by new information provided on the internet or via email, rather than focusing on existing knowledge and important, but perhaps less exciting tasks.
Becoming accustomed to short bursts of information we are more likely to become distracted and unfocused even when we are no longer online; perhaps to the detriment of friends and family.
Creative thinking may be hampered. We are more likely to depend upon the internet, and less likely to rely on our memory, which is required to do our own thinking.

New growth in old Detroit

2012-01-24T07:06:00.000-06:00

Chives

"You have to make a way out of now way". These are words of wisdom that 96-year-old philosopher Grace Lee Boggs learned while living in urban Detroit. A fascinating interview with Ms. Boggs, "Becoming Detroit", is available for listeners on the American Public Media show "On Being".

She is helping those from her community to change and grow from the unemployment crisis in Detroit, where one third of the land is vacant. Rather than just protesting, she encourages us to consider revolution as evolution. She notes is that the current environment provides us with a chance to re-imagine work in a different way.

One of the tangible ways she is building community is through encouraging urban farming.

Among her insights .... We have to restore the neighbor to the hood.

Trickle down economics not working for 99%

2012-01-23T07:30:00.000-06:00

The merits of trickle down economics were roundly debunked in an editorial "Five misconceptions about economic fairness" by David Morris.

Consider that since 1980 the average annual income of the bottom 90 percent of Americans has increased a minuscule 1 percent, while during that same time period the income of the top one percent has doubled!

The United States of America, long know as the land of opportunity, has become a place where a poor person is less likely to become rich than in most other industrialized countries

Photo from Occupy Minnesota protest

Despite the rhetoric of the far right, redistributing income to the 99 percent is actually much more likely to work its way into the economy than keeping it in the hands of the wealthy, who are much more likely to hold onto those dollars. A dollar in tax cuts on capital gains results only in 38 cents of economic growth, while that same dollar in unemployment benefits fuels the economy at a rate of $1.63.

Lastly, Mr. Morris, who works with the Institute for Local Self-Reliance, points out that taxing the rich could indeed significantly help to reduce our national deficit. If only the richest 400 families paid the statutory rate of 39 percent of their income (to be reenacted next year) an additional $500 billion would be raised over 10 years.

A picture of promise

2012-01-22T05:41:00.001-06:00

This photo represents promise. First in a new day, with the rising of the sun. Then, with seeds, which if planted have the potential of developing into a large, beautiful maple tree.

I've loved these whirly maple aka "helicopter" seeds since childhood.

Fractal patterns in nature

2012-01-21T05:14:00.003-06:00

Fractal patterns with ice and branch

Fractal pattern of ice cracks

Earlier I posted some pictures of ice cracks that seemed to mimic roots or branches. I've since learned that these may be defined as fractal patterns. In the book "The Fractal Geometry of Nature", B.B. Mandelbroth defines fractal patterns as a rough or fragmented geometric shape that can be split into parts, each of which is (at least approximately) a reduced-size of the whole. Snowflakes perhaps are one of the best examples of this.

Fractal pattern in tree

The tree, pictured right, appears to have a fractal pattern that imitates the veins of a leaf.

I learned of this term from a fellow photographer on the Capture Minnesota website. These past few months it has been a blast to view pictures uploaded by photographers, both professionals and amateurs, from around the state. This contest will be drawing to a close at the end of January. Shortly thereafter a book will be published with a couple of hundred of the top photographs. I wouldn't want to be the one having to rendering down the amazing variety of pictures portrayed on this site.

Warm thoughts for cold weather

2012-01-20T05:00:00.000-06:00

Pictured above is one of my favorite family photos. It was taken about 14 years ago, and is of my older brother and our daughter. I had just purchased a point and shoot camera at a garage sale for my brother (pictured). This was a demo shot was taken to make sure the camera worked.

This picture reminds me that you don't have to pay top dollar for all of your stuff. Used items from a garage sale or thrift store can often do the trick. It is also a reminder to take time out to notice and smell the flowers when you can. For, as is the case in Minnesnowta, the summer flowers quickly fade with the arrival of fall and winter months.

Our pretty little girl, now 17, and will be moving on before we know it. What a wonderful thing it is to savor the precious moments we now have together with our family and friends.

View of the ice

2012-01-19T07:50:00.003-06:00

With the mild snowless winter we have been having up to this point the ice on Bassett Creek Pond has been mostly exposed. Normally buried under the snow it is amazing how different the ice can look depending on one's proximity and lighting conditions.

People driving your crazy? Seek first to understand.

2012-01-18T05:00:00.000-06:00

I could see I ticked off a neighbor as he mouthed displeasure while I was passing by him in my car, driving down the hill. I could easily understand his frustration, since I had been driving partially in his lane. Coming up the hill what he couldn't see however was that I had just passed a pedestrian and given her wide birth, and had not yet pulled fully back into my lane.

Countless times have I been in my neighbor's shoes, upset with drivers who I think are going too fast, too slow or perhaps driving indecisively. What I don't know is if they may just be learning to drive, perhaps elderly, lost, or may even have a vehicle that is need of repair. Sometimes it is clearly apparent when someone needs to drive slowly, like the sedan I was recently behind, who turned ever so slowly around a corner, with a mattress and box spring roped on top. Often, however, there are no immediate visual clues that help us to understand the annoying habits of other drivers.

My impatience with drivers was painfully made aware to me about 14 years ago when our daughter was still very young. We were going out for lunch and a man with a walker was moving slowly in the line ahead of us. Our daughter determinedly told the older gentleman "move it out buster". Thankfully he seemed just as understanding as I was embarrassed.

In addition to driving less frequently I am also working to slow down in passing judgement on the actions others. The Prayer of St. Francis helps redirect my impatience....

Lord, make me an instrument of your peace.

Where there is hatred, let me sow love.

Where there is injury, pardon.

Where there is doubt, faith.

Where there is despair, hope.

Where there is darkness, light.

Where there is sadness, joy.

O Divine Master,

grant that I may not so much seek to be consoled, as to console;

to be understood, as to understand;

to be loved, as to love.

For it is in giving that we receive.

It is in pardoning that we are pardoned,

and it is in dying that we are born to Eternal Life.

Amen.

Chinese New Year Celebration

2012-01-17T05:00:00.000-06:00

We attended "Dance of Joy" this past Sunday at the O'Shaughnessy Auditorium in St. Paul in celebration of the upcoming Chinese New Year. Also known as the Lunar New Year, this is the most important of traditional Chinese holidays. This year it begins on January 23rd.

As a part of the Chinese New Year tradition there is a twelve year rotation, with animals representing each of those years. 2012 is the Year of the Dragon. People born during the Year of the Dragon are thought to be characterized by excitement, unpredictability, exhilaration and intensity.

This event was hosted by the Twin Cities Chinese Dance Center.

MLK Day of Service

2012-01-16T06:29:00.000-06:00

Volunteers with Project Sweetie Pie

Dr. Martin Luther King Junior once noted "Life's most persistent and urgent question is 'What are you doing for others?'" So it seems appropriate that a call to service goes out on this national holiday when we recognize the life and work of Dr. King.

There are a plethora of service opportunities working with youth, seniors, wildlife, etc. Locally Hands on Twin Cities provides a listing of hundreds of things and places were people can help out. On February 18th they'll be hosting a Volunteer Expo at the Mall of America.

This past year I've have the great enjoyment of volunteering in the following different areas of service:

Helping launch the Victory Peace Garden with the 4-H,
Serving on the board of the Crystal Fund for Community Progress,
Chairing Stewardship efforts at Valley of Peace Lutheran,
Working with Project Sweetie Pie on urban farming in North Minneapolis, and
Tutoring math with third graders at Noble Elementary

Victory Peace Garden

In all cases I discovered truth in the paradox that through giving we receive. What can be more satisfying than helping a young person gain skills that will last them a lifetime, or growing vegetables that will feed folks in need, or even helping people give of their resources to worthy causes?

One final remark by the late Dr. King "Everybody can be great because anybody can serve. You don't have to have a college degree to serve. You don't have to make your subject a verb to agree to serve. You only need a heart full of grace. A soul generated by love."

Tips for burning wood more cleanly

2012-01-14T05:00:00.000-06:00

With the last couple of posts related to the benefits of wood burning and then the problems related to soot, the following posting seems in order.

Firewood

There are several tips in the publication Wood Stoves and Air Pollution; Clean burning wood stoves minimize health risks produced by the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Studies to minimize the emission of soot from burning wood.

The biggest reason for a smoky fire is incomplete combustion. This can be caused by an inefficient model stove, wood that isn't seasoned properly, burning of household waste, or a fire that isn't burning hot. Following are some recommendations related to these common soot related issues.

Purchase an advanced combustion stove. These stoves have catalytic combustors that ignite smoke gasses and particles at a lower temperature than older models, resulting in a more thorough burn.
Store wood under cover to allow it to dry properly. Then burn only wood that has air-dried for at least six to eight months, ideally hard woods, such as oak, maple, or ash.
Don't ever burn household trash, such as plastics, magazines, etc. Trash emits toxic fumes and may also result in hazardous ash.
Start fires in the stove with dry kindling and an open damper. Gradually increase the size of the wood. It is best not to open the wood stove door too often in order to reduce unwanted emissions indoors.
Don't allow the fire to smolder. A smoldering fire is the worst emitter of soot and pollution. This can also lead to creosote deposits in the chimney, which in turn could result in a chimney fire.
Keep the stove well maintained by checking for leaks and cleaning the stack pipe and chimney.

Climate change involves not just CO2, but also soot and methane

2012-01-13T05:00:00.000-06:00

A couple of important studies on climate change have recently hit the news. First came a report on the biggest emitters of carbon dioxide within the United States, EPA: Power plants are top global warming culprits. According to the Environmental Protection Agency power plants released 72 percent of the industrial greenhouse gases this past year. The biggest culprits were coal-fired plants followed by oil refineries.

While it is tempting to simply point to the energy sector as the villains of our exorbitant carbon dioxide emissions, yet they are helping to fulfill the needs of us American energy addicts. In addition to focusing on cleaning up the power plants and refineries, we too must look at ways of curbing our use of fossil fuels.

In another report an international team of scientist are recommending that in addition to focusing our attention on decreasing carbon dioxide emissions we should also be working to reduce discharges of methane and soot, Climate change not just about CO2; study says cut methane, soot to slow warming, save lives. It has been calculated that there are 10 to 1 returns on investments for efforts to reduce soot and methane. Just within the United States it is estimated 14,000 air pollution deaths in people older than 30 by the year 2030 could be prevented. Additionally, a reduction in methane and soot could, over the next 30 years, diminish by about 0.8 degrees Fahrenheit projected warming in the U.S.

Additional information on the impact of soot is available from an article published in 2010 by Sanford University, Best hope for saving Artic sea ice is cutting soot emissions, says stanford researcher.

Stored wood and wasted resources

2012-01-12T06:47:00.001-06:00

Wood gleaned from neighbor in raised beds

Yesterday I was salvaging fire wood from a neighbor's home. To do this required a a somewhat awkward phone call to my neighbor, who is a widow, asking if she might allow me to haul the old wood away. Her husband had stored up a large, nicely stacked woodpile in back of their home, with anticipation of burning it sometime in the fireplace.

As one who regularly gathers and burns wood, I painfully watched this wood pile ever so slowly rotting over the past 5-10 years. Even a hardwood, like my neighbor's oak, only stays hard so long before it turns "punky". This process is also know as splating. The fungi do their work to rot away the wood, which over time turns it useless for burning or woodworking. Thankfully my neighbor's wood was not rotted to the point of being worthlessness for burning.

Jotul wood burning stove

This experience reminds me of a passage in the Bible where Jesus tells his disciples "You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses it saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled under people's feet." (Matthew 5:13). We all have talents and resources that can benefit others, what a shame if we save them up for some later date that never comes.

PS While some have concerns that wood burning releases CO2 into the atmosphere, it actually is CO2 neutral. Carbon stored in wood is emitted into the atmosphere as it decomposes. So by burning wood, instead of carbon-producing fuels such as propane, or electricity from a coal-burning plant, it actually can reduce once's carbon footprint, depending on how much fuel is required to cut and chop the wood.

Enjoying record breaking 52 degree day

2012-01-11T05:00:00.000-06:00

Snow boarding fun

Yesterday afternoon, when the weather warmed to 52 degrees Fahrenheit, people were enjoying the artificial snow at Elm Creek Winter Recreation Area in Maple Grove.

Nordic ski race

Given the extremely mild winter we've had thus far, some of the city lakes still have areas of open water. Global weirding is alive and well. While many are thankful for the lack of snow and mild weather, those who work in industries that rely on snow are hurting big time. An article in the StarTribune, Minnesota businesses are seeing red ink in brown winter, discusses some of the impact of the warm dry winter.

One outdoor winter enthusiast, Alison Gannett, has even started "The Save Our Snow Foundation", to demonstrate solutions to climate change that can be cost-effective, reduce pollution and increase energy security, while also saving our snowpack and our planet's ecosystems.

Three bachelor Mallards telling photographer jokes

2012-01-10T05:14:00.001-06:00

Three bachelor Mallards

Mallard A: "...So, did you hear the one about the photographer that couldn't get the special heron picture he was desperately hoping for? Seems the park's budget had been slashed, so while they still had a few Great Blues, unfortunately they were out of Greenbacks."

Mallard B: "Right, I know that nature photographer. He's the one I see every year hitch hiking south for the winter, because he can't afford to fly."

Mallard C: "By the way, did you know that all photographers have photographic memories? Unfortunately, most of their memory cards are full..."

Nobel peace prize photographs

2012-01-09T05:00:00.000-06:00

Doug Knutson presenting at a
Luther College Alumni luncheon

Great to see an article about Doug Knutson, a photographer and Luther College alumni in the StarTribune (A Nobel cause: Photographing the winners). He's been following his passion and taking photographs of Nobel Peace Prize laureates since 1979.

You can view Doug's beautiful black and white portraits of these distinguished leaders at the following website, Nobelpeaceportraits.

A Central Lutheran love story

2012-01-08T06:27:00.002-06:00

Central Lutheran with steeple and bell tower in downtown Minneapolis

Sanctuary and organ

Earlier this week I enjoyed a visit to the downtown Minneapolis church were my mom's parents met, Central Lutheran. My grandparents, both of Norwegian ancestry, became acquainted in the later 1920s, after having come to the city to further their education. They attended a young adults gathering at the church. Grandpa Dybvig moved to Minneapolis from a farm in Colton, South Dakota. He later enrolled in the University of Minnesota, where he received degrees both in electrical engineering and the law school. Grandma Anderson came from a farming family that had immigrated from Norway to Cokato, Minnesota. She became a registered nurse through Fairview's school of nursing. They later launched their family after moving to Dayton, Ohio.

Stained glass window
with Norwegian flag

Back to Central Lutheran. It was in 1928 that Central's current neo-Gothic type cathedral-type building was dedicated to accommodate this burgeoning congregation. It was built with a seating capacity of 2,500. Though the early plans included a clarion bell town, the crash of the stock market precluded its construction. In 2003 a generous donor provided a designated gift to complete the bell tower addition, as initially planned.

Over the years Central Lutheran has become increasingly diverse as it works to be a model of vibrant urban Lutheran ministry. I have a special appreciation for Central's outreach, as among many other things it hosts Kinship's fall harvest party. The senior pastor, Rick Nelson, is also a long-time Kinship mentor for a young guy from Minneapolis.

Ring the bells for Central Lutheran, as it continues to stand tall in service to the people of Minneapolis.

Finland's educational goal? Equity in education.

2012-01-06T06:43:00.003-06:00

If you're interested in education and have just a few minutes I would highly recommend reading an article in The Atlantic entitled "What Americans keep ignoring about Finland's school success". Following are just a few insights from Finland's highly successful public educational model.

They don't have private schools. All are invested in their public school system. (In the US the approach seems to be to send one's child off to a private school or start up a charter school if you don't like your local public school).
They only have one standardized test near matriculation of voluntary upper secondary school. Teachers independently devise their own tests to measure progress. (No teaching to the frequently required standardized tests).
The main motivation is cooperation between teachers and schools. (The latest trend in the US is competition).
Free school meals, access to health care, psychological counseling and guidance are offered to ALL students in the Finish school system. (The trend in the US is to access activity fees for most everything and staff fewer guidance counselors.).
Teaching is a prestigious well paid profession which requires a masters degree. (Teachers seem more apt to be reviled rather than revered in the US, and only require a bachelors degree).
Though not discussed in the article, Finland also supports a love of music and the arts throughout their school system. (The arts and vocational opportunities have been dramatically reduced with the increased emphasis on reading, writing and arithmetic in the US).

The corporate takeover of our school system is not working. I hope that we might lean from Finland, and not simply discard them as socialist. As Paul Wellstone liked to opine, "We all do better, when we all do better." I hope that we might learn from Finland and start doing better for all of our students in this country.

Rose hips and legacies

2012-01-06T05:00:00.000-06:00

Rose hips are what is left behind after a rose has blossomed. They are high in vitamin C and can be used for making herbal tea, jam and are even an essential component of Slovania's national soft drink.

This picture was taken at the Beltzer Rose garden located at Bassett Creek Park in Crystal. Mr. Belzer donated and cares for the rose garden in memory of his wife, who enjoyed the park immensely.

What a beautiful legacy!

Learning from different perspectives

2012-01-04T21:39:00.002-06:00

I'm almost always skeptical of people who profess to know "the truth" about things. Seems each of us only gets only small glimpses of the truth of things, and so need the insights of others to assemble even just a few pieces of the puzzle, in order to make sense of the greater whole.

Yesterday I noticed some maple seeds shimmering in the early sun rays. Pictured at left are a variety of perspectives of these seeds taken within just a few moments of one another. Amazing how differently they appear, depending on how the sun strikes them, the angle at which they are viewed and what appears behind them. Image how greatly their appearance is altered in the afternoon versus evening, or during the spring, fall, winter or summer months.

Imagine again what varying descriptions one might have of these same maple seeds base on touch, sight, taste or sound.

I'm reminded of the story of four blind people that were each introduced to an elephant and then asked to describe the animal. One was lead to the tail, and he felt it very much like a rope. Another felt the vast firm side of the elephant and described it to be like a wall. The one whom was led to the leg of the elephant felt it very much like a tree. Finally another person who was brought to the trunk described it to be just like a water hose. All accurate descriptions, yet very limited in their overall understanding of the complex nature of a large elephant.

Struggling to make sense of the complexity of people and experiences one of my counseling professors loved to quote the Danish philosopher and theologian Soren Kierkegaard.. life is a mystery to be lived, not a puzzle to be solved.

Earlier on in college I discovered his free spirited perspective on the nature of things doesn't work as well in biology or chemistry class, where the goal seems to be learning to categorize and distinguish things by their properties, etc.

How can we hope to accurately describe the complexity a person based on our limited history and perspective? As unique individuals created in God's image I love the way God described him/herself to Moses from the burning bush (Exodus 3:14), "I am that I am". How's that for a definition?

Rapid growth in subsidized lunches

2012-01-03T12:51:00.001-06:00

A piece in the StarTribune, "Subsidized lunches", noted the dramatic increase in children qualifying for free or reduced rate meals. This past year there were 21 million children who were eligible for federally subsidized food programs, up 17 percent since 2006-07. To qualify for a free lunch according to the federal guidelines a family would need to be making less than 130 percent of the poverty level. This would equate to $29,055 for a family of four. It is mind boggling to think that within the city of New York 62 percent of the children were eligible for free lunch this past year.

One of the impacts of this trend is the growth of working poor. The federal minimum wage is $7.25 per hour. We now have millions more who are no longer able to afford life's necessities: food, shelter and health care. It is hard for children to do well in school when they're hungry, homeless or sick and can't afford to see the doctor.

How much do you know about poverty? There is a quiz, sponsored by "Half in Ten", on the web. The goal of this organization is to cut poverty in half in ten years.

Thoughts for the New Year

2012-01-03T07:42:00.000-06:00

I recently came across a book marker from a used book store "What Goes "Round" that had a thought provoking quote printed on it...
"The best practice for being where one wants to be,
is the practice of being where one is..."

As someone who is at times directionally challenged, this dovetails nicely with another expression that I love...
"Where ever you go, there you are."

Bird nest

2012-01-02T05:00:00.000-06:00

Bird's nest with snow

One of the benefits of winter is to see such structures as bird nests, which typically go undetected when trees are fully leafed out.

Walking to church yesterday I spotted a bird's nest that happened to be at eye level. Pretty impressive to see how well constructed this nest was, simply woven of twigs and grass.

It had been raining the day before and then turned to snow later on New Year's Eve. Much of the ground developed a coating of ice overnight. The sidewalk was brushed and made an interesting pattern, with icy craters (right).

Fifteen years of playing boot hockey helped me successfully navigate the icy sidewalks.

Watching for Dick Tracy

2012-01-01T05:00:00.000-06:00

This picture was taken earlier in the week from the Foshay Tower. I call it "Watching for Dick Tracy", because it reminds me of the television cartoon "Dick Tracy" that I used to watch in the 1960's. The show used to start with a black and white squad car driving through traffic in a busy city intersection, with all of the cars pulled over for Detective Tracy. One of the cool features was his large wrist watch that had a video camera and phone feature. Seems we're coming very close to that with the new smart phones. Who knows, 2012 just may be the year that they introduce the "smart" wrist watch... perhaps an "iWatch"?

I was hoping to catch a police car screaming down the avenue, but couldn't wait any longer, as my parking meter was running out of time. I witnessed a steady stream of buses heading south on Marquette Avenue, taking folks home from work.

My best to all the readers of this blog in the New Year, 2012!

Healthy and not so healthy eating in China

2011-12-31T05:00:00.000-06:00

Home made bread

I listened with great interest to a story on National Public Radio about the changing eating habits of people living in mainland China. I've long been impressed with the health and vitality of most of the Chinese people I've met, here in the US, Taiwan and mainland China.

Seems that with financial prosperity overeating, soda and unhealthy foods are emerging and leading to problems with obesity and poor health. I'm reminded of a story about Daniel, the prophet from the Old Testament, who recommended to the king a diet of vegetables and water rather than rich foods and wine for his servants. After just 10 days the healthy results of this diet impressed King Nebuchadnezzar. (Daniel 1:12-16)

For people with more than enough the challenge is to demonstrate self restraint in order live and eat simply, and assist others who are lacking. I'm reminded of a slogan from the 70's, "Live simply, so that others might simply live." And paradoxically, through living simply the richness and quality of life is actually enhanced.

Photography... it's all about the light

2011-12-30T05:18:00.002-06:00

A view north at 5:45 pm

If you've dabbled much in photography, or been around an enthusiastic photographer, you might have come to learn about the importance of lighting. With outdoor photography there are 'golden hours' at sunrise and sunset that give a richness to colors that one simply doesn't get in full sun.

The importance of lighting is evidenced in the title of a book, "Chased by the Light", by my favorite nature photographer, Jim Brandenburg. Information on a current photo exhibit in Minneapolis' Bell Museum of natural history is available from his blog. By the way, it's free entry on Sunday afternoons!

A view north at 6:20 pm

Yesterday my wife and I visited the observation deck on the Foshay Tower in downtown Minneapolis. It was phenomenal to see what a difference even a half of an hour of the sun's setting could make in a photograph.

Visiting the Foshay brought back childhood memories of when it once towered over the downtown landscape. The 32 floor Foshay was the tallest building in the region when it was first constructed in 1929. It now can be difficult to find, hidden among many skyscrapers. It still however provides for a great vista of the town.

A call for mentoring on the Northside

2011-12-29T05:50:00.001-06:00

The tragic death of 3-year-old Terrell on the Minneapolis’ Northside during this holiday season has me thinking. Every Christmas it is amazing to witness the outpouring of gifts given to children and families in need. While these gifts are wonderful, and help to make the holiday season bright, far more is needed to assist these children and families in order that they might realize their God given potential.

For both the shooter and the victim’s family the gift of our presence would be a much more valuable gift than any present we might give. Terrell had a dad in prison, so without intervention he would have been six times more likely than his peers to enter the correctional system. I think it a pretty safe bet that the shooter, yet to be identified, was lacking in supportive adult role models.

During the New Year if you are interested in making a lasting difference in the life of a child, consider giving them something much more valuable than a shinny new toy or gadget, how about giving them the gift of your time? Kinship, Bolder Options, and Big Brothers and Sisters all have waiting lists of kids who are eager to have mentors/friends, be they individuals, couples or families. They are working with the Northside Achievement Zone to carefully screen, match and support Northside children and youth with mentors. Becoming a mentor has the power to dramatically change at least two lives for the better; a child’s and your own.

One additional update. I attended a gathering last night in north Minneapolis at the Urban League to discuss ways people could become involved in the development of 20 garden plots on the Northside through Project Sweetie Pie. Plans are to include mentoring as a vital component of this effort.

Successful One Acre Fund in Africa

2011-12-29T05:00:00.000-06:00

It was encouraging to read about a local man, Andrew Youn, who is working diligently to eradicate hunger in Africa. Five years ago he developed the One Acre Fund, which provides micro loans to farmers in Rwanda and Kenya. These loans are paired with education, in order to increase their crop yields. One of the keys to their success comes from the utilization of commercial seeds and fertilizer.

Gun violence kills 3-year-old

2011-12-28T06:19:00.001-06:00

After hearing the sound of gunshot near to his home in north Minneapolis 3-year-old Terrell was headed up the stairs with three other boys when he was hit in the back of the head by a stray shot. He died 17 hours later in the hospital.

It was disturbing to read Facebook entries about this tragic incident throughout the day yesterday by a few friends who either work and or live in North Minneapolis. Both Don Samuels, city councilman, and VJ Smith, head of MADD Dads visited Terrell and his mother while in the hospital. Many residents of the Northside posted their outrage on Facebook, and most offered up their prayers. A vigil is being planned for Friday.

While prayer is valuable, it seems somehow inadequate. It reminds me of the Bible passage from 1 Corinthians 13:1 "If I speak in the tongues of men and angeles, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or clanging cymbal." I'm also reminded of a story by someone who's seen his share of the aftermath of urban violence, Newark's Mayor, Cory Booker. He told a story while speaking at the Westminster Town Hall Forum about how hundreds of people showed up for the funeral of a young man who was slain by gun violence, but seemingly no one was there for him when he needed it. Given the absence of positive support he was drawn into the wrong crowd, who provided him some of the safety and attention he so desperately needed.

So, what to do about this continued violence? One initiative that holds much promise is the Northside Achievement Zone. It is aiming to provided both the essential mentoring and educational support essential for kids to thrive. More information about volunteering is available from their website.

We must consider means to decrease the amount of gun violence on our streets. According to the National Institute of Justice in 2005 there were 11,346 people killed by firearm violence and 477,040 people were victims of a crime committed with a firearm in the US. Then consider for a moment that there were a total of 3,531 American military casualties from combat in the Iraq war since it's start in 2003. We have a far greater war occurring everyday on the streets in the USA, which isn't being adequately addressed.

Warmer temps and tracks on the snow

2011-12-27T05:00:00.000-06:00

Crow

While on a morning walk around the pond flocks of crows were roosting and moving around in the trees and across the grounds. They seemed a bit skittish, flying away when visitors got within 30 yards or so.

On the pond there were many tracks of what appeared to be made by pheasants. It also appeared the park's fox visited this opportune hunting grounds.

Track crossing

Prey and predator tracks
(pheasant and fox)

Pheasant tracks

It was an unseasonably warm 52 degrees Fahrenheit yesterday in Minneapolis. This was a record high temperature for December 26th. In addition to the warm weather it was also windy throughout the afternoon. It felt a lot like global weirding. The temperature in the Twin Cities this December is running about 6 degrees above average, according to the Weather Service.

Unless things change soon, it could be a tough winter for all of the plants and animals that rely upon snow cover. Also not so great for outdoor winter sports either, such as nordic and downhill skiing, snow boarding, snow shoeing, skating, hockey, broom ball, boot hockey, skijorning, ice fishing, snowmobiling, etc...

Feeding a world of 7 billion people

2011-12-26T06:32:00.000-06:00

When it comes to feeding the world, I think often of the sage advice, "think globally and act locally". So, if we have a small plot of dirt or even a container that would work for us to tend as a garden, what a great thing to get our hands dirty and grow locally some of what we consume. However, most of the world doesn't have quick or easy access to fertile soil. Farm lands are not equally distributed and thus must be managed skillfully to feed those in other parts of the world, often living in large cities.

An article by Dr. John Tjostem, a retired microbiology professor from Luther College, wrote an article that suggests that modern American agriculture is the most sustainable and the most environmentally friendly form of agriculture on the planet. ("A recipe for a sustainable future, part 1", Agora, Fall, 2011).

Some of the greatly improved farm yields and reduction in erosion are a result of no till and minimum till thanks to Monsanto's Roundup and Roundup Ready herbicides. Dr. Tjostem further observes that commercial fertilizer, plant breeding and genetically modified crops (GMO's) have resulted in abundant yields that can feed the world's population, which has mushroomed to 7 billion. He further states that were we to practice the organic farming techniques of the past it would cause massive starvation. Those practices were adequate when the world's inhabitants counted 1.6 billion in 1900 or even 2.55 billion in 1950. Besides not being able to attain the high yield rates brought about by modern agricultural practices, organic farming also involves tilling, and soil erosion, which Dr. Tjostem contends is not a sustainable practice.

In a rather startling assertion, Tjostem suggests that despite the fears many of us have of GMO crops, they are actually safer than conventional crops. He notes that conventional crops have developed poisonous molecules to combat plant eating pests, and hence they may cause serious allergies in humans.

Dr. Trostem concludes this article by observing the vital role genetic engineers must play in order to speed up the process of biological evolution through the production of genetically engineered crops. Given the reality of global warming it will be essential to have plants that can survive in a warmer world. He concludes that our Creator gave us an intellect that He expects us to use in order to make the world a better place.

This article suggests that while we may find solace in a small organic garden plots at or near to our home, this gardening practice isn't likely to work on a larger scale in order to adequately feed the 7 billion residents with whom we share the planet. Now that's something to think globally about...

Class warfare coming from a dirty animal stall?

2011-12-25T05:00:00.000-06:00

Barn along Lake Superior,
just outside of Bayfield, Wisconsin

Christian theologian and justice advocate, Jim Wallis, turned FOX new's "war on Christmas" upside down in his God's Politics blog. Following is an abbreviated version of Jim's posting "The Real War on Christmas... by Fox News."
....
Fox News’ “war” is designed to criticize the “secularization” of our culture wrought by atheists, agnostics, liberals, leftists, progressives, and separation of church and state zealots— i.e. Democrats.
....
What is Christmas? It is the celebration of the Incarnation, God’s becoming flesh — human — and entering into history in the form of a vulnerable baby born to a poor, teenage mother in a dirty animal stall. Simply amazing. That Mary was homeless at the time, a member of a people oppressed by the imperial power of an occupied country whose local political leader, Herod, was so threatened by the baby’s birth that he killed countless children in a vain attempt to destroy the Christ child, all adds compelling historical and political context to the Advent season.

The theological claim that sets Christianity apart from any other faith tradition is the Incarnation. God has come into the world to save us. God became like us to bring us back to God and show us what it means to be truly human.

That is the meaning of the Incarnation. That is the reason for the season.
....
The real Christmas lifts up the Virgin Mary’s song of praise for her baby boy: “He has brought the mighty down from their thrones, and lifted the lowly, he has filled the hungry with good things, and sent the rich empty away.”

The Fox News Christmas would label Mary’s Magnificat as “class warfare.”

So if there is a war on Christmas it's the one being waged by Fox News.

Nature's menorah

2011-12-24T05:00:00.000-06:00

Swamp milkweed with morning sun

This picture reminds me of a menorah, with the milkweed pods representing tongues of fire, and the sun lit trees in the background strengthening the fire imagery.

We are midway through the Festival of Lights which is also known as Hanukkah. This festival is represented by the menorah, a candle holder with 9 branches.

Winter walking tips

2011-12-23T05:00:00.000-06:00

The following helpful guidelines for walking during the winter months were posted in the Sun Newspapers, by Anna Woodwick (Winter walking tips form senior commission).

When walking in a roadway, walk facing oncoming traffic (usually on the left) so you may take evasive action , if necessary.
Before stepping into a street, always stop and look left, right and then left again in order to see all oncoming traffic.
Even when you have a green light or "walk" signal permitting you to cross the street, watch for inattentive drivers.
Dress to be seen by drivers. During dusk and later evening hours, wear reflective or light colored clothing and carry a flashlight. (Editors note: headlamps work well)
Make full eye contact with a driver before stepping in front of a vehicle.
Be careful in parking lots and garages. Watch for backup lights and listen for engine noise.
Walk defensively. Many drivers fail to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks, even though they are required to do so.
Don't be distracted by using cell phones, earphones, iPods or other electronic devises.

Wisdom from 112 year old woman

2011-12-22T05:00:00.000-06:00

On Tuesday of this week Ruth Anderson died after an incredible life, spanning 112 years. In an interview a couple of years ago, at the age of 110, Ruth recommended "You do things. You think about things.... and then don't waste time fussing about things you can't change." Pretty good counsel if you ask me.

Given Ruth's recommendation I thought I would repost a poem from an earlier blog entry.

Why worry about tomorrow?

Why worry about tomorrow,

Waterfall near Holden Village

and the rising of the sun,

or anguish over past mistakes

that cannot be undone?

Why waste life's precious moment

on things that bruise the heart,

when today is ours to fashion

into a work of art?

Today comes but once, my friend,

it never can return -

so use it wisely while you can

there's a lesson you may learn.

Let history record the past,

and tomorrow come what may.

Be content to do your best,

with what you have today.

-Clay Harrison

Funding for Northside Achievement Zone

2011-12-21T05:51:00.002-06:00

It was exciting for me to see in the news that a north Minneapolis grassroots effort be named as the recipient of a $28 million dollar Promise Neighborhoods grant. I was a part of meetings a few years back when the Northside Achievement Zone (NAZ), was seeking input from the community regarding needs and resources, specifically around mentoring children through Kinship. There was and is a long waiting list of children in need of additional adult support and guidance on the Northside.

Having received federal money in the past to mentor children of prisoners, I know that this grant will soon require seemingly endless financial and activity reporting. My hope for NAZ is that it will be able to manage the reporting requirements without becoming too bureaucratic, and that it will continue to build upon local support, so that when that federal money goes away it won't also close shop.

Wouldn't it be nice if the vast sums we as a nation are spending on military efforts will one day be redirected toward things that build and strengthen our children and communities? Seems the greatest danger we have as a nation isn't a threat from overseas, but rather that we aren't preparing our children to be competitive, productive and cooperative world citizens.

An article about NAZ and the Promise Neighborhoods grant is found in the MinnPost, Promise grant will allow Neighborhood Achievement Zone to scale up north Minneapolis 'cradle to career' program.

Long-term benefits from 1/2 hour a day

2011-12-20T05:00:00.000-06:00

Family enjoying a walk around the park

If you're looking for a doctor's prescription to the very best thing you can do for your health, the following 9 minute animated lecture, 23 1/2 hours, by Doctor Mike Evans, is a MUST view.

One of the many take aways; if you watch television for six hours a day your life expectancy is decreased by five years! Believe it or not American's average about five hours a day. Editors note: depending on the content, watching television might also dramatically lower your intelligence quotient.

Not surprisingly, the best thing we can do for our health is to be physically active on a regular basis. The highest rate of return on investment is simply 30 minutes a day of some sort of exercise, which can be moderate, such as walking.

Gardening as a subversive activity

2011-12-19T05:00:00.000-06:00

Urban farm

I would highly recommend people interested in the production and consumption of healthy foods watch a powerful and humorous 8 minute educational video by Roger Doiron, "My subversive (garden) plot".

This video reminds us that gardening is a form of power... over diet, health and pocket books. Roger also recognizes gardening as a "healthy gateway drug" which entices people to then learn about cooking, food preservation and farmers markets. By planting a garden we might also influence our neighbors to do likewise.

Swiss chard

Why should we be concerned about growing more food? Consider that 900 million people are affected by hunger, while food prices are increasing around the world. It is projected that we are going to need to grow more food in the next 50 years than we have over the past 10,000 years combined! We will also have to do this with less... oil, water, climate stability farmland, genetic diversity, and time to grow food.

Where do we go if we only have one planet?

One of the suggestions Mr. Doiron provides is to transform our yards into full service green grocers. Why?

Because gardens grow good food
Gardens grow healthy families
Gardens also grow economic savings

Check out their website to learn more about the organization that Roger Doiron heads up, Kitchen Gardens International.

Biking is not just for recreation

2011-12-18T05:55:00.000-06:00

Biking isn't just for clowns!
(Crystal Frolics Parade)

Biking in the Minneapolis area has been catching on as a valuable means of transportation for many residents. The number of bike riders has increased by over half just since 2007 according to an article "A new attitude about biking in Minneapolis?" One of the keys to the rise in bike ridership has been the development of bike trails and lanes on the streets designated specifically for bicycles. As a biker I can tell you it makes a huge difference to have a few feet on the side of the street dedicated to bicycle traffic. It can be quite unnerving to ride close to the curb where often much gravel and residue from the street accumulates. It is also nice to have at least a bit of space for bicyclist when cars, buses and trucks come whizzing by from behind.

Biker riding at two below zero near downtown Minneapolis

Besides the physical and mental health benefits, biking as a means of transportation also reduces ones carbon footprint. For example, a bike commuter who travels five miles each way to work four days a week uses 100 fewer gallons of gasoline a year. This would be approximately a five percent decrease in that person's carbon footprint, according to the Rails to Trails Conservation organization.

Thinking and talking while driving

2011-12-17T06:45:00.000-06:00

It is interesting to follow the passionate range of responses to the proposed ban on cell/smart phone use while driving. I've become increasingly supportive of this ban, recognizing the tremendous distraction it creates, particularly when texting is involved.

In this fast paced world if one is alone in a car it seems a great use of time is simply to think and reflect, and of course, pay attention to driving. Most often I don't even listen to the radio, allowing for greater concentration.

When passengers are involved time in a car becomes a fantastic opportunity to engage in conversation. Some of the best conversations with teenagers occur when they're in the back seat of a car being shuttled to and from practices, etc. I recently had plenty of quality time to catch up with my parents on a 10 hour drive to Michigan and back.

Sadly, the advent of cell phones and MP3 players is dramatically impacting the opportunity for dialogue while in a car. Hum, wonder if while our legislators are at it they might consider a ban on all electronic devises in automobiles, for drivers and passengers alike?

Unseasonably warm weather

2011-12-16T06:58:00.002-06:00

Mallards on the pond

Plant by pond's edge

It has been unseasonably warm this winter. An early snow has since melted, and water has formed on top of the ice. In order to find snow one has to travel to the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. Earlier in the week there were winds of up to 45 m.p.h. More global weirding it seems.

Female cardinal snacking on a buckthorn berry

Reflection brings clarity

2011-12-15T05:36:00.000-06:00

Focus on reflection

Focus on sidewalk

Walking in a cold mist yesterday was a highlight of the day for me. I was looking for pictures and discovered some literally right under my feet. You see, there were beautiful reflections of the bare trees composed on the puddles which randomly formed on the asphalt sidewalk.

I recently heard from a photographer, who is also submitting photos on Capture Minnesota, that reflections are often more beautiful than looking at the image directly.

Sidewalk with puddles

Isn't life a bit that way also? When we take time out to reflect on things we may see them more clearly than at the moment they are occurring. Unfortunately, we live in a hyper paced world, where time for reflection isn't often valued or structured into the day.

In addition to the physical benefits of walking and running, the time they afford to reflect and think creatively works wonders for one's mental health. Prayer and meditation are great vehicles for reflection on the past. I've also discovered photography allows time for greater examination and reflection on things, but much like prayer and meditation, doesn't provide much of an aerobic workout.

Race in America

2011-12-14T05:27:00.002-06:00

Is this as close as you come to
having different races at your table?

Did you know that there is as much genetic variance within a race than between races? This is just one of many observations that Eula Biss makes in her book of essays "Notes from No Man's Land". She documents her experiences and observations around race while moving to various regions around the country, including New York, New York, San Diego, California, Iowa City, Iowa, and finally Chicago, Illinois. She speaks about the fear that many of her own race, caucasian, project among others. Much of that fear is generational and then greatly inflated by a few violent stories that get lots of media coverage and retold countless times.

In Minneapolis considerable fear has been generated about life on the Northside. Much of this is associated with people of color. I confess to becoming more fearful of the Northside once I was no longer working there on a daily basis. Recently I've been volunteering some time over north and have once again developed a greater appreciation of this neighborhood and its people. Working with Project Sweetie Pie and the "Bless A Child with a Coat" drive I've in turn been blessed to get to know a number of compassionate African American leaders. Through volunteering my awareness of people of color is not limited to the stories of violence on the Northside, which though a very real concern, paints a distorted picture of this part of town and its residents.

To better understand those from other races there is nothing better than developing a genuine relationship/friendship with people who don't look like you. The physical differences in color, size, gender, etc. become inconsequential relative to the core nature of that individual being. Traveling and staying with the local people, NOT secluded in a posh hotel with other foreigners is a great way to learn and appreciate other races and cultures. For college students a school year abroad is a wonderful vehicle to experience other races and cultures. Volunteering can also be a valuable means of fostering relationships, be it through tutoring and mentoring programs, or programs such as Peace Corps or AmericaCorps.

We become a better person, nation and world when we are able to better understand and appreciate the great strengths and diversity that constitute the whole human race. Ironically when we get to know those who appear to be much different from ourselves we discover just how much alike we are.

Empathy... something to learn from rats

2011-12-13T05:00:00.000-06:00

Seems rats deserve a great deal more respect that we give them according to a Washington Post article, "You dirty rat? Experiments show rats aren't selfish, but caring creatures." It turns out that when a rat observes a peer in a crowded cage it works diligently to free it, often even denying themselves chocolate before aiding their fellow rat.

Pair of Mallard ducks

I observed some Mallard ducks in a creek while on a walk today. It seemed like this pair of males were inseparable. They swam together, almost in a synchronized formation. Certainly did appear from my casual observation that they were there for each other. On a recent road trip to Michigan I observed thousands of Canada Geese in their V formations. They know about the advantage of flying together in formation to reduce wind resistance.

In the U.S. we hear so often of principle of the "survival of the fittest". Seems that many of our furry and feathered friends know how to work cooperatively together. They even form symbiotic relationships between species.

The rat study author, Peggy Mason, from the University of Chicago quipped that if rats can be so caring and helpful “there’s a sense of optimism. It’s something we could be.”

Agreement reached at UN climate change conference

2011-12-11T17:27:00.001-06:00

A hard-fought agreement regarding climate change was recently reached at the 2011 World Climate Summit gathering in Durban, South Africa. This was a gathering of a 194 member body representing countries around the world. Some of the developing countries, including India and China, that had previously been exempt from emissions restrictions in the 1997 Kyoto Protocol, will, after five years, need to come under the commonly agreed upon carbon emission standards.

India and China were upset with the U.S. and European nations expectation that they come under the same new rules, when they emitted vast amounts of pollutants during their industrial development over the previous 200 years. They also noted how the U.S. has been slow to adopt green technology.

Wood burning stove

Environmentalist were disappointed with the agreement. They felt it didn't move fast enough or deep enough to stem the release of carbon emissions, which are rising the earth's temperatures and leading to cataclysmic weather patterns. Additional concerns were raised around the lack of penalties and loopholes that could impact effectiveness of the agreement. A voice of concern about the lack of a courageous response to the climate change talks was provided by youth delegate, Anjali Appadurai, and is available for viewing on YouTube.

The U.S. representatives were worried that Congress might not support the regulations. The U.S. failed to ratify the Kyoto Protocol that most all of the other industrial nations approved in 1997.

One of the more positive outcomes was the decision to develop a Green Plant Fund to assist poorer nations in meeting environmental standards.

Further information is available from a USA Today article, Climate conference approves landmark deal.

Pileated woodpecker

2011-12-11T05:00:00.000-06:00

Piliated Woodpecker looking for insects in oak tree

My wife spotted a Pileated Woodpecker on a walk yesterday afternoon. I later discovered it after it had flown to a neighbors yard. Its distinctive call and loud pecking noise gave it away.

These large birds, about the size of a crow, create rectangular holes in trees to find ants. They typically nest in the cavity of large trees.

This bird is unique to North America. Its large pointed crest and haunting call make me think of it ancient cousin, the Pterodactyl. Editors note: though I'm older, I was NOT around during the Pterodactyl's hay day.

Jazz: the art of listening and living in the moment

2011-12-10T05:30:00.000-06:00

Demetrius Nabors, Ryan Proch, Henry Rensch, and Ben Linstrom (left to right)

I attended a jazz concert earlier in the week that was a capstone for my nephew's degree in percussion from the University of Michigan. As is the nature of jazz music, it was exciting to listen to the improvisation move among the players. Members of the group included my nephew, Ben Linstrom on drums, Demetrius Nabors at the keyboard, Ryan Proch playing Saxophone and Henry Rensch on Bass.

Ben Linstrom at the drums

A TED video featuring vibraphonist Stefon Harris, "There are no mistakes on the bandstand", demonstrates how a seemingly discordant note can become part of a beautiful jazz melody. The keys to making successful jazz music include knowing your instrument, listening carefully to others, focusing on the here and now, and taking turns; sharing the talents of others in the group. Pretty good metaphor for life, isn't it?

As poverty rates among children swell, what are we teaching them?

2011-12-08T21:09:00.001-06:00

It was discouraging to read an article, "Hungry, needy kids swell lunch lines", in the StarTribune. Across the country the nation's rate of students living in poverty has risen from 59% in 2007 to 65% in 2010. In Minnesota the poverty rate among young people is at 37%. With the federal minimum wage set at $7.25 an hour there are millions of working poor. Given latitude to set their own minimum wages, the rates vary among the states. The minimum wage in Minnesota is $6.15 per hour.

The disconnect is growing larger between the school curriculum and the economic reality facing many of our young people. For many years basic life skills and the trades were taught in our public schools. I fondly remember taking drafting, electricity, metal and woodworking. Many students were also taught to manage a household budget, cook, and sew. Whether or not one went on to work in the trades or took a strictly academic route, these skills could be useful later in life.

Homemade bread

It has been determined that the nation's schools should all now almost exclusively focus on english, math and the sciences. I would suggest that the next generation is likely going to need to learn to live more simply on less income than the previous generation. Learning to live sustainably, within ones means, will be a significant challenge. Skills like gardening, money management, making meals from scratch, and even making and repairing clothing may become just as critical as learning to operate Microsoft Office. While these skills may not be what corporate america is clamoring for, it just may be time for the educational system to listen to another voice... the voice of practicality. Skilled farmers, artisans and craftsmen may someday become just as valuable as MBAs and PhDs. As a nation we must relearn the skilled production work we've lost over the years. Instead of being producers we've become the world's largest consumers, both figuratively and literally!

Setting a trend walking to church.... not yet

2011-12-05T06:36:00.001-06:00

View from pedestrian bridge

Vegetation by the pond

I'm hoping at starting a trend for people to walk or ride their bikes to church. Let's just say it hasn't exactly caught on like a wildfire quite yet. I have been encouraged however to see a couple of families riding their bikes to church. I'm only a little over a year into the effort.

Bassett Creek

For me to walk to church takes about 20 minutes, rather than 8 minutes by car. I'm just a bit over a mile from church. Thanks to a pedestrian bridge over the highway, I have a more direct walking route than driving. It is difficult to break habits, especially if they are more comfortable, quicker and easier than the alternatives.

Church

One of the challenges of walking in suburban areas, besides being counter cultural, is the lack of sidewalks. Despite their many advantages, I've discovered lots of people are adamantly opposed to sidewalks eating into their yards. They prefer the low maintenance, isolation and privacy of their sidewalk free yards.

Sculpture along the route

As we grow increasingly aware of the disastrous long-term effects of pollution and inactivity on our personal health and the health of our planet I hope that more people will be inspired to enjoy the healthy benefits of walking, even during the colder months of winter. As the Norwegians are fond of saying, there is no such thing as bad weather, only poor clothing.

Local artist guild and greeting cards

2011-12-04T05:46:00.001-06:00

I was pleased to participate a local artist guild open house this weekend. It was amazing for me to see the diversity of artistic talent just within a block. Art forms included sewing, glass work, pressed flowers, jewelry and watercolor painting.

This was the first venue, other than church, where I sold greeting cards with photos. I was pleased with the encouraging response. Following is a sampling of some of the photos I utilized with greeting cards. If you might be interested in purchasing cards or a calendar of photos from Bassett Creek Park, just let me know. The cards for $2.50 each or six for $12.00. Calendars are $15. Shipping would be additional. I've labeled the greeting card line Picturing Peace. I can be contacted at: DanielLJohnson@gmail.com.

Reduction in energy demand

2011-12-03T07:18:00.001-06:00

Swamp Milkweed by pond

Good news, it seems we just might be making inroads into energy conservation. An article in the StarTribune, Xcel's power pullback, indicated that Xcel Energy is realizing a reduction in demand for electricity within the state of Minnesota. The bad news was they attribute the reduction in energy use to a bad economy.

An encouraging bit of news from this article was that the power company was tracking with the state's energy mandate that it produce 26 percent of its power through renewable sources by 2020. While the costs of renewable energy are greater up front, think of all the environmental and health benefits they provide in the long-term, which aren't typically considered in our determination of "cost".

At the national level the Obama administration is looking to back off of proposed rules to reduce toxic air emissions from industrial boilers and incinerators. An article, New proposal eases some requirements on boilers but preserves health benefits, describes this recommendation to appease corporate interests. Often it seems progress is made by taking two steps forward and one backward.

Stick in the ice

2011-12-02T08:07:00.001-06:00

On my walk around Bassett Creek Pond earlier this morning I found it interesting to see how the ice cracks complemented the branch that was partially submerged.

Not defined by employment

2011-12-01T05:30:00.000-06:00

I attended an inspiring funeral service for Jim Nevison earlier in the week at Brookdale Covenant Church. I got to know Jim through occasional stops he would make to Brookdale, while he was on his Hostess delivery route. He was a member of Brookdale, where I had my office with Kinship. He always had a twinkle in his eye and a ready laugh, and expressed sincere concern for all he met. Jim his wife and daughters all later became Kinship mentors for a number of children in need. He even played the role of Santa Clause for Kinship during its Christmas activities.

There was a packed house for the service, which lasted nearly two hours, given the plethora of stories shared by a couple of his brothers. They told of his love for family, softball, practical jokes, music, volunteering, faith, hunting and fishing. What impressed me was not one word was made of his job working with Hostess. The only indirect reference to his work was the story of when he dressed up as a Twinkie for a softball gathering. He worked to make a living for Hostess, but it was his rich, full life of outside of work that was awe inspiring. He brought fun and joy with him where ever he went, and left those privileged to know him feeling better because of their encounter with Jim.

At the lunch following the service I visited with some of the church elders who spoke of what an outstanding usher and tutor Jim was for the church. They gave an example of his compassion for one of the people who is physically disabled and confined to a wheelchair. Jim's exemplified a quote by Winston Churchill, "We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give." Well done good and faithful servant Jim Nevison!

Global warming, who me worry?

2011-11-30T05:00:00.000-06:00

Interesting article, "Why aren't we more worried about global warming", in the MinnPost by Don Shelby. He wonders why, when 97% of the world's climate scientists and experts believe global warming to be occurring as the result of human activity, two thirds of Americans still believe there is a lot of debate among scientist about climate change. Among the naysayers are the current group of Republican presidential candidates. Could their indifference possibly be related to the interests of big business, or could it be fear of upsetting the comfortable, wasteful habits of affluent Americans? As Al Gore's movie so succinctly stated, it is indeed an inconvenient truth.

This article suggests that rather than point people to frightening scenarios, it is better to win others over by relating to ways in which they can be a part of the change. People are more likely to work toward change when they can be convinced of the benefits to human health, rather than reacting to frightening scenarios.

The increasingly severe weather patterns will hurt most those living in poverty, who have little shelter from the elements or financial reserves. The wealthy have more buffers to insulate themselves from the multitude of harmful effects of climate change. It is without doubt that our nation's decision makers are much more sensitive to the needs of big business and wealthy campaign donors and lobbyist than they are to others less affluent. So, it is that we must continue to advocate and work to gain the attention of our nation's policy makers, many of whom don't seem to terribly concerned that their continued inaction may lead our world's state of health to a point of no return. And, as I've come to more fully appreciate, we must be the change we want to see in the world.

Never doubt that a small group of committed citizens can change the world; indeed it is the only thing that ever has. Margaret Mead

Red-tailed Hawk

2011-11-28T20:48:00.001-06:00

Red-tailed Hawk in Cottonwood tree

Red-tailed Hawk in morning sun

I spied a large Red-tailed Hawk when it perched on a cottonwood tree out in front of our home yesterday morning. At first it was hard to tell whether it was a hawk or an owl, given its large size and coloring.

After 5-10 minutes of taking shots of this handsome raptor it flew off to another side of the pond. I hiked over to see if I could find it again. Turns out this wasn't hard, since a small flock of crows were gathered in trees around it, and were kicking up a ruckus. Seems they wanted to let the whole neighborhood know about this potential danger.

Mink on the run

When it flew across a stream I once again had to hike and track it down. While hiking across a walking bridge I spotted a mink lumbering over the frozen stream. I'm thinking that might have been one of the reasons this hawk picked a nearby limb for its perch.

I was surprised that the hawk allowed me to get within about 10 yards or so, while it watched for prey below. It didn't seem put off by my encroachment in the least, and rarely even glanced my way. I did however catch a glance in the photo above right. Note the 180 degree head swivel for this stare.

Exercise pill, how American is that?

2011-11-28T05:16:00.001-06:00

There is an old joke frequently told about an obese person who vowed to do anything to lose weight, with the exception of only two things; diet and exercise. While there are countless dieting related drugs, research is being done at the Mayo clinic to develop a drug that mimics the effects of exercise. What a dream come true for many. Just imagine, one set of pills for dieting and another for exercise!

While the initial intent is to make this drug available for people too weak to exercise, something tells me if it is effective it could be a hot seller for a nation struggling with an obesity epidemic. The development of this exercise drug is partially described in an article "Mayo focuses on 'healthspan'".

As I've often lamented citizens of the US seem to primarily value things that are quick, easy and cheap. The opportunity to pop a pill instead of exercising would hit on two out of these three values.

What an exercise pill won't do is to get one outside, breathing fresh air and listening to the birds sing. An exercise pill also won't release the endorphins that comes with strenuous activity. Of course, there just might be another pill to do that...

Minnesota Cyclocross Championship at Bassett Creek Park

Scarcity versus abundance mentalities

2011-11-27T05:44:00.001-06:00

With limited quantities of "door buster" merchandise, thousands of people stood in long lines all across the country. Then with store openings shoppers were sharply elbowing each other to get their prized deals before others snatched them up. One shopper in Los Angles, California even used pepper spray to keep her competitors away from her electronic purchase.

People are not typically at their best when they have a scarcity mentality. This kind of thinking promotes fear and mistrust of others. It leads to competitive behavior that starts out with a win-lose outlook and then in the long-term often results in lose-lose destructive encounters, such as was exhibited by the shopper using pepper spray. All end up suffering.

In sharp contrast, an abundance mentality generates cooperative, win-win, decision making. It produces love, and fosters generous behavior. Flow charts of scarcity mentality (the law of deprivation) and abundance mentality (the law of extension), submitted by Harry Owens, are available from a Healing Healthcare Association website.

So much of today's political discourse seems to be feeding into this scarcity mentality, and hence a lose-lose end result. Let's hope that our political leaders can once again learn to be respectful of other's perspectives, and instead of attacking behavior they think collaboratively and creatively together toward solutions.

Priorities and lines

2011-11-26T05:01:00.001-06:00

I couldn't help but connect a couple of very divergent stories in the news yesterday, both which were about people waiting in lines. The first came from Moscow, Russia, where it was noted people were waiting 24 hours in a line to see and possibly kiss what was thought to be the belt of the Virgin Mary (Tens of thousands of Russians brave cold, line up to see newly arrived Virgin Mary's belt). It was thought by some the belt could bring special reproductive powers, among other things.

Here in the United States there were lines of shoppers all across the country. At the Mall of America, in Bloomington, Minnesota there were 15,000 people at the doors when they opened at midnight (Black Friday midnight openings: No going back). They expected to see 200,000 shoppers by day's end. Many of these shopper's belts may have been busting after recently eating their Thanksgiving meal. I connected these stories by their vastly different rationale for what people believed was worth waiting for, utilizing their precious life's energy and time. For what will it profit a man, if he gains the whole world, and forfeits his life? Or what will a man give in exchange for his life? Matthew 16: 26

There has been some outrage in the US over many large store chains who moved up their Black Friday shopping times such that thousands of store employees were required to leave their Thanksgiving gatherings early. The store management indicated they had to do this in response to "customer needs".

E.F. Schumacher, a British economist, and author of "Small is Beautiful, Economics as if people mattered", had the following wisdom related to this consumption frenzy... An entirely new system of thought is needed, a system based on attention to people, and not primarily attention to goods.

In response to all the hype generated by "Black Friday" some have chosen to protest with "Buy Nothing Friday", while today others will be supporting "Buy Local Saturday".

Ice cracks on the pond

2011-11-25T10:08:00.000-06:00

What do these ice cracks on the pond appear to look like to you? I'm thinking dendrites or synapse from our nervous system. How about tree roots, branches, or perhaps leaf veins? A river?

Interesting to see nature's designs repeated in different ways and places.

National day of Thanksgiving and Humility

2011-11-24T05:10:00.001-06:00

Our pastor, Christine Bellefeuille, delivered a well received sermon yesterday at Valley of Peace that had at its heart a recommendation that we reconsider naming Thanksgiving to a national day of Humility. It was the first time at our church that I heard applause after the sermon. Pastor Chris noted how none of us can claim total responsibility for our success, or even the food on our table. We depended upon drivers, farmers, store workers and countless others for our daily existence. She referenced Elizabeth Warren's observation that none of us became successful on our own.

Suburban turkey

“You built a factory out there? Good for you. But I want to be clear. You moved your goods to market on the roads the rest of us paid for. You hired workers the rest of us paid to educate. You were safe in your factory because of police-forces and fire-forces that the rest of us paid for. You didn’t have to worry that marauding bands would come and seize everything at your factory — and hire someone to protect against this — because of the work the rest of us did.

Being a national holiday, she also read President Barrack Obama's Thanksgiving proclamation.

Another Thanksgiving thought from Newark Mayor, Cory Booker's Facebook page...
We drink from wells of freedom and opportunity we did not dig. We must give thanks not in words but in continuing this tradition of service.

So, as you are loading up on your Thanksgiving meal today add a slice of humble pie to the menu. Enjoy it in honor of all those upon whom we depend for our blessed existence.

Community Thanksgiving meal

2011-11-23T05:23:00.001-06:00

Serving staff and volunteers

Kitchen crew

Serving crew

In celebration of Thanksgiving a first class meal was served to about 150 family members by the Oasis of Love yesterday. The event was at the Family LIFE Centre in Crystal, Minnesota, and was sponsored by the Donovan McNabb Fund. It was nice to watch Mr. McNabb along with a couple of other Minnesota Viking Football players and their family members in white aprons serving the meals and visiting with the guests. They were most gracious.

Dining plate

Donovan McNabb visting a guest

The meals were prepared by Chef Jeff, who in addition to to his catering business also does training in food preparation and service. Volunteers from Project Sweetie Pie also were actively involved in serving the meals and gathering well over 100 winter coats for the children and their family members.

After the meal winter coats and a variety of gifts were provided to those in attendance. A massage therapist was also on hand to alleviate some stress.

On a personal note, I visited with one of the men in attendance. He had moved from Memphis, Tennessee to Minneapolis just within the past year and a half. He share something of his life story of being in prison for 20 years. Despite the cold Minnesota winters was extremely thankful for the quality social service system in Minnesota that has supported him in transitional housing. He was most pleasant to visit with, and now is serving as a minister to others. He hadn't eaten anything all day in anticipation of this special meal. I was glad to see he wasn't disappointed.

Donovan McNabb, Pastors Diane and Rufus Thibodeaux and Michael Jenkins