In short, the 2012 field for the most part sucks.....but hopefully by writing this I'm able to help you all understand a few things.
As a Catholic, we have certain principles which we must uphold.
1) Pro-Life*
2) Pro-Family
3) Pro-traditional marriage
4) Pro-parental rights
5) Believes in the application of subsidiarity.
While there are certainly more, I'm keeping the list short.
I put an asterisk next to the Pro Life, because this needs some expansion. To be pro-Life means to promote Life from conception to natural death. It means that one must stand against abortion and euthanasia. As these are grave violations of the dignity of the human person. It does NOT mean that you have to be against the death penalty. Why not? The Death penalty sometimes involves the taking of an innocent life, where abortion and euthanasia always take an innocent life. It means that one must take a stand against immoral embryonic stem cell research. (Ones that involve the killing of life). The Church is not against moral methods of finding embryonic stem cells (such as umbilical chord).
There are other issues which are of secondary importance
1) Healthcare
2) Immigration
3) various other issues.
Healthcare, insofar as it's been deigned by God is a right, or what is better known as the ordinary means of care. Food, water, every person has a right to, this was set up by God for us. Modern healthcare as we know it is a man made invention, enlightened by God. To say that someone has a right to this would be a misuse of terms. It wasn't directly deigned by God. Now certainly there is a moral obligation for healthcare, but not in the strictest sense the "right" to it as it's often portrayed. Now how this obligation is carried out can be up for debate.
Exactly same thing for immigration. People have a right to it, but a limited right insofar as they follow the laws of the country that they are moving to. It is not an absolute right insofar as someone can just show up unannounced. Think of your property. Does any person have a right to walk on your property that you own? No, it is your private land, which you can do with what you want. (Not addressing the moral obligation at this time). Who you let on your property is up to you. It is in your rights to restrict access to your place. Likewise it is the right of a country to restrict who can enter or leave the country. This process is called legal immigration. Intentions aren't really all that important. It doesn't matter whether someone intends to live a better life, or for a positive reason. Ignorance of the law can't be pleaded. This is a matter of prudential judgement, but the rights of both sides must be respected in any immigration reform debate.
Over the coming weeks I'll be analyzing each of the candidates and ranking them on a 10 point scale for each position that the candidates hold. It's probably a bit late for this, but hey, I figure, why not.
Beats anything the USCCB will be publishing.
02 December 2011
Thank God!...
For this Bishop...finally putting an end to the lovey dovey hand holding feminized action that is the hand holding during the Our Father. Quite frankly, unless you're someone that's very close to me, I have no intention on holding your hand.
27 November 2011
The New Translation....winning
a. The new translation at last night's vigil Mass went very well. No one really messed up. Father stuck to the texts that were in the missal. No Ab libbing. Mass felt more reverent and people were paying close attention i thought to what was going on at Mass. We all know my position, it'd be a whole lot easier if the Church just went back to Latin...but hey, it's a good start.
24 November 2011
23 November 2011
Some thoughts...
a. The dignity of the person is violated when things become strictly about politics.
I am without a doubt 100% pro-Life from conception to natural death. The problem with the pro-Life movement is that it seems to be a merely political thing. That is to say instead of trying to change the culture (which is what we're called to do)...it's just a mere ploy for political gain.
To make matters worse, there are divisions within the pro-Life group. There are some that are against abortion, but pro-contraception. There are others that are for various other crimes against life. The ONLY way that the pro-Life movement is going to be successful is if it succeeds in changing the CULTURE. Not just for a political gain of some type.
b. Why re-invent the wheel?
This coming sunday in English speaking Catholic Churches there will be the new translation of the 3rd edition of the Roman Missal in the Ordinary Form...It got me to thinking, why are we re-inventing the wheel? Why don't we just use Latin...and let people have whatever translation they want. After all, the Mass isn't addressed to us for the most part anyway. I know in many places we've heard this "it's about us" attitude, but it really isn't. It's about the worship that is due unto God. It is Calvary made ananmesis. So, as to avoid having to learn something else, I'll just reply in Latin...no need for a translation.
c. Why do women have to be so confusing?
Here's the thing. If someone says something, I take them at face value. If you say that you love me, then I accept that. You can't merely expect to do a complete flip of personality within time. In particular, I say this because it's one of my biggest annoyances: If you're not ready for something, don't jump into it. Don't jump in and later find out. Hearts will be broken in the process it's better to wait and fully be prepared than to jump in and have to jump out because of something. All of us have various things in our past that can hold us back to varying degrees. The past to some degree brings us to the present. It's a whole lot easier to allow people to help you overcome your past rather than break their hearts and leaving them. So yes, as of monday, my g/f broke up with me for "time" and "I still need to recover from..." (Chalk that up as time number x that I've heard the same excuse)....
d. Song lyrics
Ever had the situation where particular lyrics speak to a situation that happens?...Well, Evanescence's the change is a good song at the moment...
UPDATE: As to part e, I'll be seeing the ex tomorrow at 1:30 to hopefully iron things out and get things right. I do ask for prayers...I'm not always known for being politically correct. I really don't think that she understood how much that single action, screwed everything big time. I don't think also she realizes that I know what she's suffering with :)...of course, I'm by no means a genius...I just put pieces to a puzzle together :D
I am without a doubt 100% pro-Life from conception to natural death. The problem with the pro-Life movement is that it seems to be a merely political thing. That is to say instead of trying to change the culture (which is what we're called to do)...it's just a mere ploy for political gain.
To make matters worse, there are divisions within the pro-Life group. There are some that are against abortion, but pro-contraception. There are others that are for various other crimes against life. The ONLY way that the pro-Life movement is going to be successful is if it succeeds in changing the CULTURE. Not just for a political gain of some type.
b. Why re-invent the wheel?
This coming sunday in English speaking Catholic Churches there will be the new translation of the 3rd edition of the Roman Missal in the Ordinary Form...It got me to thinking, why are we re-inventing the wheel? Why don't we just use Latin...and let people have whatever translation they want. After all, the Mass isn't addressed to us for the most part anyway. I know in many places we've heard this "it's about us" attitude, but it really isn't. It's about the worship that is due unto God. It is Calvary made ananmesis. So, as to avoid having to learn something else, I'll just reply in Latin...no need for a translation.
c. Why do women have to be so confusing?
Here's the thing. If someone says something, I take them at face value. If you say that you love me, then I accept that. You can't merely expect to do a complete flip of personality within time. In particular, I say this because it's one of my biggest annoyances: If you're not ready for something, don't jump into it. Don't jump in and later find out. Hearts will be broken in the process it's better to wait and fully be prepared than to jump in and have to jump out because of something. All of us have various things in our past that can hold us back to varying degrees. The past to some degree brings us to the present. It's a whole lot easier to allow people to help you overcome your past rather than break their hearts and leaving them. So yes, as of monday, my g/f broke up with me for "time" and "I still need to recover from..." (Chalk that up as time number x that I've heard the same excuse)....
d. Song lyrics
Ever had the situation where particular lyrics speak to a situation that happens?...Well, Evanescence's the change is a good song at the moment...
UPDATE: As to part e, I'll be seeing the ex tomorrow at 1:30 to hopefully iron things out and get things right. I do ask for prayers...I'm not always known for being politically correct. I really don't think that she understood how much that single action, screwed everything big time. I don't think also she realizes that I know what she's suffering with :)...of course, I'm by no means a genius...I just put pieces to a puzzle together :D
19 November 2011
Some thoughts for the weekend....
a. The conditional clause...the I hope you don't get mad...but
Ever notice that when someone says that, the direct result is that you get angrier than you would have been?
Here's the thing, if you have something to say, just get to the point. Don't make the wound worse by putting clause in front of it. Just say the hurtful thing and let the stabbing begin. Don't try to soften the blow, you already know what you have to say is going to solicit a reaction one way or the other...get to it.
b. One of the 5 things I actually learned...
Taking mental notes is much better than blasting heads off right then and there. No need for me to get angry anymore...I just take notes and put them in the bank to use them whenever I please. I simply call it elimination of irrational thought..No one thinks rationally when they're angry. All rationality comes when you're calm and have time to deliberate...a whole lot easier to run my life that way.
c. Relationships...
Take time to develop...and don't just happen overnight. There is a ton of growth that happens in weeks, let alone months. Pray for mine.
Ever notice that when someone says that, the direct result is that you get angrier than you would have been?
Here's the thing, if you have something to say, just get to the point. Don't make the wound worse by putting clause in front of it. Just say the hurtful thing and let the stabbing begin. Don't try to soften the blow, you already know what you have to say is going to solicit a reaction one way or the other...get to it.
b. One of the 5 things I actually learned...
Taking mental notes is much better than blasting heads off right then and there. No need for me to get angry anymore...I just take notes and put them in the bank to use them whenever I please. I simply call it elimination of irrational thought..No one thinks rationally when they're angry. All rationality comes when you're calm and have time to deliberate...a whole lot easier to run my life that way.
c. Relationships...
Take time to develop...and don't just happen overnight. There is a ton of growth that happens in weeks, let alone months. Pray for mine.
13 November 2011
Some updating...continued.
a. Hindsight is always 20/20
At this point last year, I was discerning to be a priest and of course fighting the temptations that came along with it. I must say that I learned a ton. At the time that I found out about me leaving the order, I was a bit distraught, but as usual, God knows much better than me.
I am happy to say that I'm in a relationship with a wonderful girl that I've met here in Idaho. I remember when i was debating about the decision to ask her out, I don't regret giving her a chance. It has proven to be a very good thing for me.
I had opportunity to talk with my former postulant master for a bit today. Finally that I am on my feet and a bit more comfortable in where I am spiritually, I made the call. He was glad to hear that I was doing well and about where i am in my own discernment. I finally had the chance to thank him for giving the opportunity to discern with the order, and to test my call. In all opportunities, God has his hand right in front, showing us something. I hold no anger towards any of the friends that I made while I was on east coast...Initially things are difficult. But God heals.
b. Kathleen
Is wonderful...details and pictures later
c. Pray for me...I need it :D
At this point last year, I was discerning to be a priest and of course fighting the temptations that came along with it. I must say that I learned a ton. At the time that I found out about me leaving the order, I was a bit distraught, but as usual, God knows much better than me.
I am happy to say that I'm in a relationship with a wonderful girl that I've met here in Idaho. I remember when i was debating about the decision to ask her out, I don't regret giving her a chance. It has proven to be a very good thing for me.
I had opportunity to talk with my former postulant master for a bit today. Finally that I am on my feet and a bit more comfortable in where I am spiritually, I made the call. He was glad to hear that I was doing well and about where i am in my own discernment. I finally had the chance to thank him for giving the opportunity to discern with the order, and to test my call. In all opportunities, God has his hand right in front, showing us something. I hold no anger towards any of the friends that I made while I was on east coast...Initially things are difficult. But God heals.
b. Kathleen
Is wonderful...details and pictures later
c. Pray for me...I need it :D
10 November 2011
On Penn State, and the presidential debates.
a. Penn State situation.
I have a bit of a unique perspective. I am in education. I work for a school, and need to tell you a different side to this story.
i. No teacher is permitted to act on behalf of the school without administration approval.
This is true regardless of whether you're in elementary education, or higher level education. That is to say, the autonomy in a classroom is limited, regardless of what situation you're in. A teacher can not under any circumstances say I represent a school or department without approval from the administration. For example, when I taught at my old school, I had ability to represent the physics department. Why did I have this ability? Because I was the head of the department. Now, I don't represent the entire school, just the physics department.
At my current school, I can still represent the physics department (I'm the only teacher), but not the entire school.
In a teachers' contract, or usually employment manual, there is the chain of command to tell of major events to. This includes sex abuse. The reason for this is to protect everyone that is involved, alleged victim, school, accused, etc. It is not in the teachers' pay grade to investigate situations once they are reported. If the teacher or professor does investigate, this could be tampering with witnesses and those that are involved and could potentially make the situation worse than it already is.
One can argue that Joe Pa needed to do more, and of course hindsight is 20/20. But once something is reported to the administration, it is up to the administration to take care of the issues that have been reported. The teachers are usually not expected to follow up on situations once reported. For example, if I need to order a compass for a school, I would place my order, and the administration would take care of it. Now if something hadn't been done for like a month or so, I'd check on it, but, I don't expect to have to do that, I expect the people that are in position of authority over me to take care of the job that I assigned to them.
I really place blame more on the administration than Joe Pa for this fiasco. Could he have done more, yes, but EVERYONE in Administration needs to be fired, not just the president, EVERYONE!, If you're going to fire the coach for doing his obligation, everyone that didn't needs to be fired as well. All that should be considered in this situation is consistency.
b. The presidential debate.
Honestly, The Media wants either Romney or Perry to win to guarantee 4 more years of Zero. With everyone seeming to fall, Rick Santorum is rising to the top. He is the one that I agree with on most of the issues. We need someone who will stand up for Faith, Family and Liberty. Rick Santorum is the guy for that.
I didn't get to watch the presidential debate. I heard that Perry had a huge gaff, in forgetting something. It happens to everyone, granted not on such a big a stage. We know Zero has a teleprompter and can't speak without it. Likewise for any president, they'll have help. I wouldn't worry about it too much. Perry's not going to win.
I have a bit of a unique perspective. I am in education. I work for a school, and need to tell you a different side to this story.
i. No teacher is permitted to act on behalf of the school without administration approval.
This is true regardless of whether you're in elementary education, or higher level education. That is to say, the autonomy in a classroom is limited, regardless of what situation you're in. A teacher can not under any circumstances say I represent a school or department without approval from the administration. For example, when I taught at my old school, I had ability to represent the physics department. Why did I have this ability? Because I was the head of the department. Now, I don't represent the entire school, just the physics department.
At my current school, I can still represent the physics department (I'm the only teacher), but not the entire school.
In a teachers' contract, or usually employment manual, there is the chain of command to tell of major events to. This includes sex abuse. The reason for this is to protect everyone that is involved, alleged victim, school, accused, etc. It is not in the teachers' pay grade to investigate situations once they are reported. If the teacher or professor does investigate, this could be tampering with witnesses and those that are involved and could potentially make the situation worse than it already is.
One can argue that Joe Pa needed to do more, and of course hindsight is 20/20. But once something is reported to the administration, it is up to the administration to take care of the issues that have been reported. The teachers are usually not expected to follow up on situations once reported. For example, if I need to order a compass for a school, I would place my order, and the administration would take care of it. Now if something hadn't been done for like a month or so, I'd check on it, but, I don't expect to have to do that, I expect the people that are in position of authority over me to take care of the job that I assigned to them.
I really place blame more on the administration than Joe Pa for this fiasco. Could he have done more, yes, but EVERYONE in Administration needs to be fired, not just the president, EVERYONE!, If you're going to fire the coach for doing his obligation, everyone that didn't needs to be fired as well. All that should be considered in this situation is consistency.
b. The presidential debate.
Honestly, The Media wants either Romney or Perry to win to guarantee 4 more years of Zero. With everyone seeming to fall, Rick Santorum is rising to the top. He is the one that I agree with on most of the issues. We need someone who will stand up for Faith, Family and Liberty. Rick Santorum is the guy for that.
I didn't get to watch the presidential debate. I heard that Perry had a huge gaff, in forgetting something. It happens to everyone, granted not on such a big a stage. We know Zero has a teleprompter and can't speak without it. Likewise for any president, they'll have help. I wouldn't worry about it too much. Perry's not going to win.
06 November 2011
Epic Failures of Society
1. Justin Bieber....just because
2. Barack Obama...honestly, how can you think a man can give you everything you want. He's not God, heck, he's not even Christian, dude only worships himself. Anyone who voted for Zero should have any degrees or diplomas revoked, since clearly you didn't have enough intelligence to see through the guy.
3. Evangelization...All of us fail at this. The biggest enemy to there being more Catholics, is Catholics themselves. Of the many things we insight about...altar girls, Communion in the Hand, Ad Orientem, etc. All of these things being important don't get me wrong, but how about we start by looking in the mirror and seeing how we can be better before we start fighting over things.
4. Moral compass...Honestly, how can someone not recognize the fact that a human life begins at conception. This is obvious. Humans don't produce monkeys (No, kids bouncing off the walls does not equate them to monkeys.) How can we equate things that aren't equal. Sorry, so called gay marriage is not equal to real marriage. Period. There is no argument that you can pull that will change that fact. In order for things to be equal they have to produce the same result. The issues could go on.
5. Government in general....We've become enslaved to entitlements. We must have, since when were we entitled to anything? Heck, we're not even entitled to heaven! Our landing in heaven is dependent on God's grace, and our cooperation with it. Problems are best handled at the local level...period. Government has created a new form of slavery/robbery and is very successful.
6. Occupy Wall Street..Really, Wall street is a mere symptom of the real problem....if you want to be productive, don't go to wall street, go to congress. or better yet, VOTE THEM OUT OF OFFICE!
Bonus:
7. Anyone who believes F = ma. Acceleration does not cause force. Acceleration is a description of motion. Force is a cause of a change in motion. The logical way to write Newton's 2nd Law is a = F/m, not the other way around. I could rant on that, but why....
8. Glee...another just because
9. The environmental movement...Plants and animals don't equal humans. sorry.
2. Barack Obama...honestly, how can you think a man can give you everything you want. He's not God, heck, he's not even Christian, dude only worships himself. Anyone who voted for Zero should have any degrees or diplomas revoked, since clearly you didn't have enough intelligence to see through the guy.
3. Evangelization...All of us fail at this. The biggest enemy to there being more Catholics, is Catholics themselves. Of the many things we insight about...altar girls, Communion in the Hand, Ad Orientem, etc. All of these things being important don't get me wrong, but how about we start by looking in the mirror and seeing how we can be better before we start fighting over things.
4. Moral compass...Honestly, how can someone not recognize the fact that a human life begins at conception. This is obvious. Humans don't produce monkeys (No, kids bouncing off the walls does not equate them to monkeys.) How can we equate things that aren't equal. Sorry, so called gay marriage is not equal to real marriage. Period. There is no argument that you can pull that will change that fact. In order for things to be equal they have to produce the same result. The issues could go on.
5. Government in general....We've become enslaved to entitlements. We must have, since when were we entitled to anything? Heck, we're not even entitled to heaven! Our landing in heaven is dependent on God's grace, and our cooperation with it. Problems are best handled at the local level...period. Government has created a new form of slavery/robbery and is very successful.
6. Occupy Wall Street..Really, Wall street is a mere symptom of the real problem....if you want to be productive, don't go to wall street, go to congress. or better yet, VOTE THEM OUT OF OFFICE!
Bonus:
7. Anyone who believes F = ma. Acceleration does not cause force. Acceleration is a description of motion. Force is a cause of a change in motion. The logical way to write Newton's 2nd Law is a = F/m, not the other way around. I could rant on that, but why....
8. Glee...another just because
9. The environmental movement...Plants and animals don't equal humans. sorry.
15 October 2011
On the vigil of the solemnity of the nativity of Joe
In stroke of linguistic genius...I have coined "the solemnity of the nativity of Joe" (Yes, the lowercase letters are on purpose)
I could have just said today was the day before my birthday, but that's completely overdone.
A few thoughts...
1. The road to heaven is paved with the souls of Junior High teachers (7th and 8th). The crap they have to put up with is beyond anything I would expect anyone to do. I teach 7th and 8th graders, teaching them is hopefully cutting time off of purgatory. I studied to teach high school kids, this is really testing my patience.
2. Listen to the statement, "We're protesting Wall St." I find it hilarious...forgive me for thinking the protest of an intimate object is a bad idea. What did the street do to you?
3. I bought an apartment in Grangeville, ID....I'm pretty excited about this new and upcoming opportunity.
4. If you're going to take a test, it should relate to what you studied...so why on the DMV test does it have questions about the rights of motorcycles, when I'm taking a test on cars?
Yes, it's my birthday tomorrow...:)
God Bless
Mr. P
I could have just said today was the day before my birthday, but that's completely overdone.
A few thoughts...
1. The road to heaven is paved with the souls of Junior High teachers (7th and 8th). The crap they have to put up with is beyond anything I would expect anyone to do. I teach 7th and 8th graders, teaching them is hopefully cutting time off of purgatory. I studied to teach high school kids, this is really testing my patience.
2. Listen to the statement, "We're protesting Wall St." I find it hilarious...forgive me for thinking the protest of an intimate object is a bad idea. What did the street do to you?
3. I bought an apartment in Grangeville, ID....I'm pretty excited about this new and upcoming opportunity.
4. If you're going to take a test, it should relate to what you studied...so why on the DMV test does it have questions about the rights of motorcycles, when I'm taking a test on cars?
Yes, it's my birthday tomorrow...:)
God Bless
Mr. P
01 October 2011
On the glorious Feast day of St Therese
God has His way of doing things that are beyond our comprehension...I must say somethings are getting clearer. It's been quite a long time since I've last blogged, a few updates....
a. I have moved....
I now live in Cottonwood, ID. I am a math and science teacher at a school in the "city." (Town doesn't even reach 1000). As I've mentioned previously, it's always been in my heart to teach. A different kind of peace is present here at my new job and with everyone that I've made friends with. The situation that I was at home dealing with, I had to leave it, there was interior stress that I wasn't going to express.
a. I have moved....
I now live in Cottonwood, ID. I am a math and science teacher at a school in the "city." (Town doesn't even reach 1000). As I've mentioned previously, it's always been in my heart to teach. A different kind of peace is present here at my new job and with everyone that I've made friends with. The situation that I was at home dealing with, I had to leave it, there was interior stress that I wasn't going to express.
- I don't have to hide my Faith. I can be Catholic without attacks coming from the inside.
- I don't have to hide my political beliefs, I can be conservative without being looked down upon.
- Even though my job is hard, I enjoy all of my students and everything that I have to do to prepare to do a good job.
It has been a bit of culture shock for me, getting used to "crick" instead of "creek" (Something I refuse to give into.) has been quite the challenge. But so far, everyone has been great to me that I've met here. I went to dinner with Adrienne and her husband. Yet to meet Anita
b. It's NOT God's will that I be a priest.
Really the thought of priesthood hasn't crossed my mind much since I've left seminary. It's painful sure, but I know that God isn't calling me to be a priest. That's not something that I have control over.
c. Liturgical fights are not worth it.
Honestly, it's to the point, where as long as the Priest doesn't pour Jesus after the consecration, or screw up the words of consecration, I don't care about the abuse. There is nothing that I can do about it. I am not in control, (as much as I like to be at times). There's only one of me, prayer, hope and not stressing are good things I'm attempting somewhat to develop.
d. You don't think I forgot it's St Therese's feast day did you? I've been meaning to mention a few things.
- St Therese and I have quite a few things in common. We're both stubborn as heck. We've both fallen asleep praying the Rosary and we both have a deep love for God in our efforts to do the simple things. Was able to go to confession today and again reflect on her life in relation to mine. (For those of you that happen to be in Spokane, make sure you go to St Al's at Gonzaga, it's a gorgeous Church...nota been, just to visit, I make no endorsement for Mass). Things are not in my control, and I'm very slowly accepting that fact.
- As a guy, flowers aren't my biggest interest. Roses from St Therese however are a completely different story. I think she has sent one in the form of a particular person. We'll see.
Thank you to all of you that have been praying for me. Please continue to do so. I will do so for you as well. God bless
Mr. P
19 August 2011
Thoughts for a Friday Evening
- It's a lot easier to pray, when you're praying with someone. The fact that I'm able to pray the brieviary with a friend of mine definitely gives me reason to think something greater is possible. Though I must say, it's interesting trying to pray 3 hours apart. We always end up doing what's on my time zone.
- Even though rejection letters and e-mails suck, it's better than ignoring the candidate that applied for the position.
- For the solemnity of the Assumption, I saw a good friend....I should hold a grudge against her, but I don't. That's probably because like myself, she's also a mathematician. And I have complete and total sympathy to mathematicians and physicist
In the search of employment
Apparently,I'm not even worth a rejection call or e-mail..Just flat out ignored...Oh well, their loss. Ugh, 0-3, prayers would be appreciated.
11 August 2011
Almost a year after the fact.
I can certainly say the past year of my life has been much like a sinusoidal wave. Up and down, in a relatively repetitive pattern. Between my own struggles in discernment with a religious order, to my flat out anger when I left, I can honestly say the realm of emotional trial that has been my life has been very taxing, though, while a lot of the things about myself I knew to be true, were only magnified in the presence of religious life.
I'm not one for believing people in general...I'm quite pessimistic when it comes to my attitude towards people. I have major doubts when it comes to peoples' opinions, or what they may be, but every once in a while there are some that are able to figure things out or finish my sentences.
a. My time was conflicted with various thoughts.
Those of you that know me in real life, know me to be a person who probably thinks more than he should. The thought of whether I wanted to be a priest was often often challenged. When i saw a particular sister smile, I always thought of the vocation of marriage. I'd go into nights of detailed analysis of that particular thought and quite often would have sleepless nights. I'm also the same person that does not do anything until coming to an absolute conclusion about whatever I was thinking about. As I'll put it, my ability to organize and separate things became magnified. The thought of marriage didn't really bother me so much, as I've often heard it said, if you don't want to be a father to children, you shouldn't be a priest. So, I was consoled in that fact during my time in religious life.
b. I long to teach, it's as simple as that.
Literally from the second classes started, I missed being on front of my students' and teaching them. But again, this did not bother me, simple solution, be a teaching priest, instead of one that did parish works. I enjoy passing on the things that I know to others, even though I do not enjoy being the center of attention. (Such is the paradox of an introverted teacher). So I took the time to interject things here and there where appropriate.
c. I do not like being pushed, and will swing back, period, I don't care who you are.
As with anyone I have my various weaknesses. Mine involve around personal attacks. I've gotten professors fired for doing things like that to me. It wasn't going to be any different regardless, i do not tolerate being personally attacked by a professor. There are many that said I shouldn't say anything, just bow down and agree to him, sorry, I refuse to do that when I'm personally insulted.
d. Change, forget it.
Order and beauty are things that appeal to me personally. I liked the structure of religious life. I liked the order of things. That said, I have always gone about doing things in un-orthodox ways. I remember my mom always telling me that I liked to do things the hard way. I still do. I go about conforming in my own way, especially when it's not specified, how to go about doing it. Might be my own stubbornness speaking. I don't like change, not even the lack of change in my pocket. Change is a disruption to my order, hence my distain towards it. I have a method of going about business, and it's successful, I will not adapt it for anyone or anything. Let me give example. I study best in the evening (between 10p-12a), I can not study before that. Now this is particularly hard to do in religious life. Now I'm a nerd, who likes to study and am known for not putting books down. I invest myself heavily towards my schoolwork, even if it doesn't often look like it. I tried to do things differently, it did not work, I have to do things a particular way otherwise order is disrupted.
e. Well, onto the positive...
There is someone that has caught my interest as a potential Mrs. me. I find it interesting that her and I have both discerned religious life. Reminds me in a way of the lives of St Therese's parents (both her and I being fans of St Therese). I think the chance to incorporate our learnings from religious life is a good thing. Curious minds will seek, and not get a name, at least not publicly on this blog.
f. I have applied to teach math and physics in Tennessee. Pray that I get the job :)....
Thanks for reading, God bless
I'm not one for believing people in general...I'm quite pessimistic when it comes to my attitude towards people. I have major doubts when it comes to peoples' opinions, or what they may be, but every once in a while there are some that are able to figure things out or finish my sentences.
a. My time was conflicted with various thoughts.
Those of you that know me in real life, know me to be a person who probably thinks more than he should. The thought of whether I wanted to be a priest was often often challenged. When i saw a particular sister smile, I always thought of the vocation of marriage. I'd go into nights of detailed analysis of that particular thought and quite often would have sleepless nights. I'm also the same person that does not do anything until coming to an absolute conclusion about whatever I was thinking about. As I'll put it, my ability to organize and separate things became magnified. The thought of marriage didn't really bother me so much, as I've often heard it said, if you don't want to be a father to children, you shouldn't be a priest. So, I was consoled in that fact during my time in religious life.
b. I long to teach, it's as simple as that.
Literally from the second classes started, I missed being on front of my students' and teaching them. But again, this did not bother me, simple solution, be a teaching priest, instead of one that did parish works. I enjoy passing on the things that I know to others, even though I do not enjoy being the center of attention. (Such is the paradox of an introverted teacher). So I took the time to interject things here and there where appropriate.
c. I do not like being pushed, and will swing back, period, I don't care who you are.
As with anyone I have my various weaknesses. Mine involve around personal attacks. I've gotten professors fired for doing things like that to me. It wasn't going to be any different regardless, i do not tolerate being personally attacked by a professor. There are many that said I shouldn't say anything, just bow down and agree to him, sorry, I refuse to do that when I'm personally insulted.
d. Change, forget it.
Order and beauty are things that appeal to me personally. I liked the structure of religious life. I liked the order of things. That said, I have always gone about doing things in un-orthodox ways. I remember my mom always telling me that I liked to do things the hard way. I still do. I go about conforming in my own way, especially when it's not specified, how to go about doing it. Might be my own stubbornness speaking. I don't like change, not even the lack of change in my pocket. Change is a disruption to my order, hence my distain towards it. I have a method of going about business, and it's successful, I will not adapt it for anyone or anything. Let me give example. I study best in the evening (between 10p-12a), I can not study before that. Now this is particularly hard to do in religious life. Now I'm a nerd, who likes to study and am known for not putting books down. I invest myself heavily towards my schoolwork, even if it doesn't often look like it. I tried to do things differently, it did not work, I have to do things a particular way otherwise order is disrupted.
e. Well, onto the positive...
There is someone that has caught my interest as a potential Mrs. me. I find it interesting that her and I have both discerned religious life. Reminds me in a way of the lives of St Therese's parents (both her and I being fans of St Therese). I think the chance to incorporate our learnings from religious life is a good thing. Curious minds will seek, and not get a name, at least not publicly on this blog.
f. I have applied to teach math and physics in Tennessee. Pray that I get the job :)....
Thanks for reading, God bless
03 August 2011
Random thoughts
- America's next top model, is extremely degrading to women and places materialistic exterior beauty above interior beauty.Why do we show this crap on TV?
- Latin is meant to be sung, not recited
- More things aren't in our control than we care to recognize.
- I think it's pretty good if you can pray LOTH over long distances.
- I don't forget rejections....period.
21 July 2011
My open letter to trad Caths...and of their like
Chances are you'll never read this letter as it's on the most unimportant blog on the internet. Off the chance that you happen to come across this letter, here are a few thoughts for consideration.
a. The same arguments and the same debates get quite annoying. Whether you're talking about the mistakes of Bl. JP II, validity of the NO, or how the Church was supposedly pre-Vatican II, hearing the same message becomes very bland after a while....lest you get on my nerves again, here's a reality check.
1. There are 2 that are perfect: Jesus and the Blessed Mother. Every other Saint screwed up at some point. No Saint has the charism of infalibility. Lest you be confused, St Augustine was a Manacheist before his conversion to the True Faith. Yes, JP II did some questionable things the litany could go on for a while. He was a sagnuine and an extrovert. (To translate that for you traddies, it means he was a huge people person and tried to please people to a fault). None of us are in the condition to judge his heart. Observing from the outside of his personality type, I'm quite sure that he did not intend to offend anyone. It doesn't make sense to most people...especially to myself as a heavy introvert and meloncholic. The Church has spoken of him as Blessed. This is not an infallible decison as has been made clear by the Pope cutting down majorly on his celebration of beatifications, yet if you're going to sit and complain about this, you're wasting your time. If you don't like it, don't pray to him, plain and simple...there are plenty of Saints to pray to, pick one.
2. All the conspiracy theories about the NO are quite annoying as well. Newsflash, if it was a protestant Missal, the Missal wouldn't be valid. The Church has no ability to proclaim invalid Sacraments. Something to think about, The Sacrifice of the Mass is still there IN SPITE of what Bugnini and crew tried to do. The NO is seldom done to the highest degree of solemnity it should be. The Scriptual Propers are unfortunately not used in 99.99% of NO Masses, hence by de facto anthrocentric Mass. I'd love to tell you that the NO is going to disappear, but at this moment in time it isn't. Instead of complaining, do something about it. Bring what the Holy Father is doing to your parish. Get to kneeling, praying, and gradually get things to this point. You don't boil a frog by immediately placing him in hot water don't you? See what our Holy Father has done, gradually changing things from 2005-to now. Things don't change overnight...get some patience, or buy some on e-bay.
3. If you think there was 100% obedience before Vatican II, newsflash you're wrong about that too. There's this thing called media and modern technology which makes it seem like disobedience is running rampant. People didn't listen then either. Remember Judas Iscariot was a validly ordained Bishop, and we do suffer from concupiscene. There will always be those that try to thwart the Church. Just look at the sex-abuse scandal to see that things weren't perfect pre-Vatican II. The 15th century ended a long time ago. It's the 21st century now. The Church need not change, and I do agree she does need to get back to the things that worked, modern gimmicks aren't really cutting it. Things will be perfect if we God willing reach heaven. Now in the mean time, pray, hope, and shut up. The TLM didn't solve all of our problems then, and it won't solve all of our problems now.
b. Quit trying to be a jack of all trades...stick to what you're good (or not so good) at
1. As a physicist, my curiosity with the natural order of the world, I'm always listening to various things. I must say it makes me laugh when I hear people (in particular certain trads) say that the sun revolves around the earth. (Yes, there are people that still believe that)...a. The Church Fathers are NOT infallible on this issue. b. The laws of physics are the same regardless of reference frames. c. and most important of all. Fr. Coparnicus was never condemned as a heretic. The problem wasn't that Gallileo was wrong, but that he crossed the line between science and theology and didn't have proof for his arguments. Now, that said, the earth was created before the Sun, but what is not stated is where the earth is placed on a system of axis. The sun being center of the universe, or not, is irrelevant to our salvation. Don't argue over it.
2. While I promote modesty in dress, I will not go to the extreme position and say that pants are intrinsically evil and should never be worn by females. Fashion evolves and changes. The important thing is modesty, both interior and exterior. I've seen dresses worn immodestly, as well as pants done modestly.
All that said, pray for me, I'll pray for you...we all need it.
14 July 2011
12 July 2011
Simply put
accepting and liking are 2 different things. There are many situations I accept. Chances are I don't like those situations that have been accepted.
11 July 2011
Sometimes it's a good idea to shut up...
To the overly critical:
Appreciate what is good, not everyone has the chance to freely go to Mass...now shut up
Bl JP II made mistakes...now shut up
Your life isn't perfect...now shut up
You're not the Pope...now shut up
The world would appreciate it
Appreciate what is good, not everyone has the chance to freely go to Mass...now shut up
Bl JP II made mistakes...now shut up
Your life isn't perfect...now shut up
You're not the Pope...now shut up
The world would appreciate it
06 July 2011
A different take on Fr Corapi
In my own experience of living religious life, I can tell you that living in community is draining. (It's no wonder religious life is purgatory on earth). Now this doesn't at all mean anything bad about the community I lived with, I loved them, if anything it's a reflection of my personality. I don't like hanging around large groups of people, I tend to be easily drained by large groups of people. To counteract that, I'll withdraw from people to get my isolation time in. That was something that was difficult for me to really live, though I can get along with anyone who I talk with (in general).
Something to perhaps consider is that Fr Corapi lived outside of his community, and perhaps didn't want to be in community because maybe living with that many people would be draining towards him. From what it would seem, at least from watching him on EWTN all these years, he seemed to like the attention and the spotlight on him. From the outside looking in he seemed very extroverted in his interaction with people. (Bear in mind that extroversion does not necessarily mean that one needs to like people, it's how one deals with thoughts and processes, it is completely possible to be an extrovert and completely shy). Perhaps the starting of the media company was a cover for the actual reason Fr Corapi did not want to live in community, I don't know, I'm just speculating with my own thoughts.
I really do believe that there is a solution for just about every problem. (Even no solution is a solution, technically, the proper mathematical term would be no answer, solution is all of the work involved).
It definitely was not a smart idea for Fr Corapi to live alone considering his past, and conversion does not eliminate temptation. It would have been a good idea for a brother priest or a non-clerical brother to live with Fr Corapi, just so that he wasn't alone and succumbing to temptation would be a bit more difficult. Now would this have eliminated the succumbing to temptation, absolutely not!
My friend Fr Erik of Orthometer on his bog states a few thoughts, well worth reading
Also the Bp Emeritus of his diocese has thoughts here
I agree with both of the posts that I've linked here...but back to my point that I was making. There are some that would think that living in community would be a solution, perhaps not. What I do think was missing was accountability. He should never have been allowed to live alone. (Notice I did not say away from the community).
I can only say that this could have been handled internally much better. Especially for a figure with the cult of personality attatched to him, there's a hard line which should be avoided, it puts a black eye for everyone involved.
Prayers for everyone involved, and also while you're at it, pray that I don't fall into the temptation as well.
Something to perhaps consider is that Fr Corapi lived outside of his community, and perhaps didn't want to be in community because maybe living with that many people would be draining towards him. From what it would seem, at least from watching him on EWTN all these years, he seemed to like the attention and the spotlight on him. From the outside looking in he seemed very extroverted in his interaction with people. (Bear in mind that extroversion does not necessarily mean that one needs to like people, it's how one deals with thoughts and processes, it is completely possible to be an extrovert and completely shy). Perhaps the starting of the media company was a cover for the actual reason Fr Corapi did not want to live in community, I don't know, I'm just speculating with my own thoughts.
I really do believe that there is a solution for just about every problem. (Even no solution is a solution, technically, the proper mathematical term would be no answer, solution is all of the work involved).
It definitely was not a smart idea for Fr Corapi to live alone considering his past, and conversion does not eliminate temptation. It would have been a good idea for a brother priest or a non-clerical brother to live with Fr Corapi, just so that he wasn't alone and succumbing to temptation would be a bit more difficult. Now would this have eliminated the succumbing to temptation, absolutely not!
My friend Fr Erik of Orthometer on his bog states a few thoughts, well worth reading
Also the Bp Emeritus of his diocese has thoughts here
I agree with both of the posts that I've linked here...but back to my point that I was making. There are some that would think that living in community would be a solution, perhaps not. What I do think was missing was accountability. He should never have been allowed to live alone. (Notice I did not say away from the community).
I can only say that this could have been handled internally much better. Especially for a figure with the cult of personality attatched to him, there's a hard line which should be avoided, it puts a black eye for everyone involved.
Prayers for everyone involved, and also while you're at it, pray that I don't fall into the temptation as well.
05 July 2011
Casey Anthony...
if she were smart she's slip out the country and live a life quietly for effectively getting away with murder. However; I don't anticipate such a thing happening. She'll probably find a way to mess this up, end up in jail and then finally be convicted. It's also further proof what a joke the American Justice system is, but that's not the point.
Of course 3 pm is known as the hour of mercy.
Of course 3 pm is known as the hour of mercy.
How in the world...
are our words better than God's? I've still yet to figure out why we replace the Word of God with our own at every Mass. (Yes, it's a licit practice allowed by the GIRM), but why would you replace God's word with our own? It's not nearly as effective or efficacious. I'll take introit proper over Gather us in, any day of the week.
03 July 2011
Things I thought were obvious
a. Since it's not guaranteed that a person will say yes, a person does not have a right to be married. Since there are conditions to be met, a person does not have a right to be married. Something that has conditions or that is not directly deigned by God Himself, is not a right. Though Marriage is deigned by God, it's not a guarantee, it's a vocation. And the party is not obligated to say yes. Therefore a right it is not.
b. The Truth in of itself is attractive. Nothing needs to be altered. When the Church tries to make itself relevant, the opposite effect of what it intends always ends up happening. This goes for Teen Masses, or any modern attempts at fixing something that isn't broken. Why don't we try using God's words at Mass instead of ours (aka the actual propers of the Mass vs. hymns), why don't we try NOT Pouring the Precious Blood after the consecration, heck, why don't we just try being Catholic, it's so much easier.
c. The original song is 95% of the time better than the cover or the re-mix. It should be illegal to re-do songs that are currently out. (aka < 2 years or less). Trying to out do the original, not a good idea. Just give up :)
d. The Holy Father is showing us by example what to do, why don't we follow? It just makes sense. Nothing that he's doing is contrary to the Liturgical mind of Holy Roman Church, just do it. Crucifix on the altar, communion kneeling and on the tongue, the actual propers for Mass, Gregorian Chant, Latin, you know all the things the 2nd Vatican Council called for.
But since all these things make way too much sense, they're not going to happen, alas, time to watch the world destroy itself *sits and gets popcorn*
b. The Truth in of itself is attractive. Nothing needs to be altered. When the Church tries to make itself relevant, the opposite effect of what it intends always ends up happening. This goes for Teen Masses, or any modern attempts at fixing something that isn't broken. Why don't we try using God's words at Mass instead of ours (aka the actual propers of the Mass vs. hymns), why don't we try NOT Pouring the Precious Blood after the consecration, heck, why don't we just try being Catholic, it's so much easier.
c. The original song is 95% of the time better than the cover or the re-mix. It should be illegal to re-do songs that are currently out. (aka < 2 years or less). Trying to out do the original, not a good idea. Just give up :)
d. The Holy Father is showing us by example what to do, why don't we follow? It just makes sense. Nothing that he's doing is contrary to the Liturgical mind of Holy Roman Church, just do it. Crucifix on the altar, communion kneeling and on the tongue, the actual propers for Mass, Gregorian Chant, Latin, you know all the things the 2nd Vatican Council called for.
But since all these things make way too much sense, they're not going to happen, alas, time to watch the world destroy itself *sits and gets popcorn*
02 July 2011
The decision to blog again.
I'll be perfectly honest ever sine St. Valentine's day I've been lost. At that point I was asked to leave the order for whatever reason. I'm not going to sit and dwell on it. My emotions have been completely sinusodal going up and down between both extremes of anger, and dispair.
I've been quite quiet about what has been going on in my life and for that matter blogging. So I've thus decided to re-brand myself. I've started this blog fresh to put everything that has happened in the past somewhat behind me. (You have to know me in real life to understand why I said it the way I said it.)
a. The title: My blog doesn't matter
In reality my blog doesn't matter, I'm just a person with a pulpit who is not afraid to use it. If someone complains about something that I have to say, clearly that person needs to find a life, or start their own. I will keep comments open, but understand this is my blog and I control it and what you can (or can't say)
b. What I'll talk about
Anything, this ought to be interesting.
I've been quite quiet about what has been going on in my life and for that matter blogging. So I've thus decided to re-brand myself. I've started this blog fresh to put everything that has happened in the past somewhat behind me. (You have to know me in real life to understand why I said it the way I said it.)
a. The title: My blog doesn't matter
In reality my blog doesn't matter, I'm just a person with a pulpit who is not afraid to use it. If someone complains about something that I have to say, clearly that person needs to find a life, or start their own. I will keep comments open, but understand this is my blog and I control it and what you can (or can't say)
b. What I'll talk about
Anything, this ought to be interesting.
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