Taboo

A couple of things on my mind:

Drum prices
Men (in reference to participation in Christianity)
Nail polish
Japan
Solidifying faith (books etc..)
Men (in reference to being testosterone-driven human beings)

Drum Prices
It's ridiculous when the cost of a small accessory costs more than one can afford with a single paycheck. Not that there aren't some random good deals available, but the majority (or MSRP) of instruments cost way more than I understand. I need to get a grant to add to my set, sheesh. I would like to add a few pieces, including a double bass, second hi-hat (compliments the double bass), some small splash cymbals, crash/ride cymbal that sounds [better] than my current, and a sound wall (probably will build that myself soon) so I can play louder at church and not 'disturb' people.

Men pt. 1
Had a bit of discussion and prayer, etc.. tonight about men not being as involved in churches as women are (the ratio stands around 60/40 with men being the 40) and there is some research that shows how when men are actively involved with a church, the church is many times more likely to have a flourishing existence, while the absence of men promotes church death. Well, we have a large amount of women at our church. Most men see churches as the place where old women go. I even see the clash between my grandmother and I when it comes to music (I'm obviously more boisterous-minded being on the drums, but I like the action of faster songs or at least more intensity, where as she prefers the lighter stuff ***NOT THAT WE HAVE PROBLEMS WITH THE OTHER, WE JUST HAVE PREFERENCES***) So men are more... physical; energetic; extreme; flamboyant; etc.. It's part of us. It's how we are made. Men are made to be strong and hefty, not dainty pew sitters.

Nail Polish
Officially a taboo thing for me. I wore black nail polish on one finger for one day and was asked more than 20 times what I had on my finger and why I would choose to do such a thing (even one was [jokingly] asking if I was gay now. No, I am not) Part of the interview with Mike Toupin had him explaining the cultural differences between America and most 3rd world Indian or African nations. He also covered some different peoples we have in America: Goth, prep, and all in between. The idea with the other countries is to not invade with the idea that 'my way [or our American way] is the right way'. Same goes with the sects in America. Upon encountering a Gothic teen, it would be of extensible rudeness to affront him/her with a demeaning statement like, "Why do you have to wear those things?" Truth be told, if I in fact decided to become of Gothic persuasion, I would highly disrespect anyone's comments of how strange it is. The matter is, again, not to judge. Work with people where they are. LEARN what they do and like, and respect them for their personal convictions. Love them. Encourage them to love others and serve others.

Japan
Sarah prayed for me tonight. I can't remember the whole thing, but it covered my intended trip to Japan. To be honest, I am very excited about going, yet also very nervous. Lately I have been very interested in doing new things and learning as much as I can on just about everything I can. I am taking the advice of Mike and attempting to learn Japanese. I am studying the culture, the history, the government, the geographics, the demographics, and the religions. I am absolutely fascinated with learning at this point (especially if it is exceptional insight from someone very wise on the topic). It makes me wonder about my purpose for these desires: to travel to the other side of the world, completely opposite of my whole life thus far; to learn EVERYTHING; to want to interact with people I don't know; to experience a change in life; to experience something other than what I've known since birth. Why would I have these desires, this drive, if I wasn't in some way destined to be apart of it?

Solidifying Faith
I've been reading Angels & Demons (bought it yesterday, almost done with it now..) The thing with most of what Dan Brown writes is its racy religious statements. I actually highly anticipate to hear his view and see his reasons. I look forward to hearing another side of the story. I like having my faith challenged. I like that there is a real opposition, not just an infinitesimal challenger we create to keep people in the church. He brings out some taboo ideas [taboo to the Christian church] and I greatly respect that. And not only that, but he writes with such amazing brilliance and talent, injecting history and fiction all in one, creating a wonderful world and intriguing story.

Men pt. 2
I really enjoy being physical. I love being rough with the guys, wrestling in the water, sports, racing, loud music, food, etc.. [I wanted to add women to that list, but I think it would have come misunderstood.. with more chivalry than the average male, I like women too ;D] Anything to show the strength of being manly (and impress the ladies) is an awesome time. Now that Joel is on a boat (motha f*****) it seems there might be slightly less of that... though I have succeeded in being a small addition to the Bacon's Castle society. We might be having a sport day after church this coming Sunday (which btw I get to lead *smack* - doing the interviews of all the local peoples)

I'm hungry now. Taco Salad??