Just a note of thanks to you all, for all. On this Thanksgiving, I hope we can stop and smile and feel. Feel the love of our families, our communities and our God. I hope we can feel this so that we in turn can share this very precious love with the world around us in all that we do. I feel blessed to be a part of a community that does just that with each action of their day.
So absorb the love and gratitude that we are so blessed to feel and be aware of. The simple love of a friend, a parent, a sibling, a spouse. For this simple love is the core of who we are, yet sadly is so simply overlooked and falls to the wayside. For this simple love can not be lost; for if we feel it slipping, look to the greater source, in his majestic mountains, bright blue skies, and the warm, soft breeze--allow it to capture you. For we have a God who loves us oh so much to surround us with beauty so that we may never lose sight, never let go.
Thank you for sharing His beauty with me each day, showing me the truth of life is more than a dollar sign, or an A+ in the situations of our lives. It is relationship; this is the thing to truly be thankful for, and for this I truly am.
Grace, peace and blessings upon you all.
Love,
Lyndsey
Thursday, November 26, 2009
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Do We?
“Sunday”, derived from one language, which came from another, as are most words within the English language. From one to the next, we trace back through Germanic languages finally landing upon its Latin origin: dies solis (“day of the sun”). Amazing what one can come upon with a quick click of the mouse. The sun, the source of our existence on Earth. Without it, we are nothing. It would make sense that our ancestors would name a day in its honor and stop to appreciate something which solely gives asking for nothing in return. This would leave me with the begging question: Are we following suite?
Now, whether it be the seventh day or the first of a calendar week, we see Sunday as a day of rest, Sabbath within many cultures. I realize Saturday is the chosen day of Sabbath within the Jewish culture, being that the Lord created in six days, and on the seventh rested. This again rests upon the calendar and depending upon where you geographically have settled and the small grid of squares upon which you gaze, you’re going to see Sunday both as day one and seven. For the sake of argument, day seven or Saturday within the Jewish calendar could very well be Sunday. On the seventh day He rested. Also, followers are called to give their first fruits to the Lord your God. SO whether it be beginning the week focusing upon the source of life or the end of the week showing thanks, it is a consecrated day. Interestingly enough, in Greek, as well as Portuguese, the words for Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, etc. mean second, third fourth, etc. Again, the wonders one can come upon surfing the web.
Previous to, or aside from Christianity and Judaism, Sunday or another day of the week are still placed aside as reverent days of gratitude and rest. The Sun itself is an irrefutable source of life, an origin of transferable energy which from life is produced and further multiplied. Today, to some extent we break from our work-week, but do we rest? Are we reverent? Grateful?
There is no “true” factual basis of the origin of the sun, yet we would be fools not to recognize its power and importance. Hence, people have bowed to it, entered into rituals and offered sacrifices. This was/ is a way of showing gratitude. I do not believe that this glowing ball of fire demanded this upon humans, but it was we who decided upon this necessity. Jesus, the Son of God is considered by many, identical to our center of the universe…a source who solely gives asking for nothing in return.
Jesus Christ is an example of the energy of life. His origin is elusive to us as is the Sun’s. Through his warmth, he loved and accepted all those he came in contact with, healed and fed those along his path. His quiet strength radiated far passed his immediate location and continued to bear life.
Sons emanate the life of their fathers. I would like to propose that these two life sources, the Sun and the Son, come from the same origin of life and are clear and irrefutable examples of life and what we are too designed to be—Bearers of life. We are to be as they are: sources whom solely give, asking for nothing in return. What does the Sun need from us? What does Christ need from us? Everyone is provided for when everyone gives as both the Sun and the Son do. Life mirrors life.
So this Sunday, go back to the source, pause and be thankful…Ponder for a moment. What/Who is this energy, this life that we have? What characteristics does it bear and radiate…what do we absorb and in turn exude?
Now, whether it be the seventh day or the first of a calendar week, we see Sunday as a day of rest, Sabbath within many cultures. I realize Saturday is the chosen day of Sabbath within the Jewish culture, being that the Lord created in six days, and on the seventh rested. This again rests upon the calendar and depending upon where you geographically have settled and the small grid of squares upon which you gaze, you’re going to see Sunday both as day one and seven. For the sake of argument, day seven or Saturday within the Jewish calendar could very well be Sunday. On the seventh day He rested. Also, followers are called to give their first fruits to the Lord your God. SO whether it be beginning the week focusing upon the source of life or the end of the week showing thanks, it is a consecrated day. Interestingly enough, in Greek, as well as Portuguese, the words for Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, etc. mean second, third fourth, etc. Again, the wonders one can come upon surfing the web.
Previous to, or aside from Christianity and Judaism, Sunday or another day of the week are still placed aside as reverent days of gratitude and rest. The Sun itself is an irrefutable source of life, an origin of transferable energy which from life is produced and further multiplied. Today, to some extent we break from our work-week, but do we rest? Are we reverent? Grateful?
There is no “true” factual basis of the origin of the sun, yet we would be fools not to recognize its power and importance. Hence, people have bowed to it, entered into rituals and offered sacrifices. This was/ is a way of showing gratitude. I do not believe that this glowing ball of fire demanded this upon humans, but it was we who decided upon this necessity. Jesus, the Son of God is considered by many, identical to our center of the universe…a source who solely gives asking for nothing in return.
Jesus Christ is an example of the energy of life. His origin is elusive to us as is the Sun’s. Through his warmth, he loved and accepted all those he came in contact with, healed and fed those along his path. His quiet strength radiated far passed his immediate location and continued to bear life.
Sons emanate the life of their fathers. I would like to propose that these two life sources, the Sun and the Son, come from the same origin of life and are clear and irrefutable examples of life and what we are too designed to be—Bearers of life. We are to be as they are: sources whom solely give, asking for nothing in return. What does the Sun need from us? What does Christ need from us? Everyone is provided for when everyone gives as both the Sun and the Son do. Life mirrors life.
So this Sunday, go back to the source, pause and be thankful…Ponder for a moment. What/Who is this energy, this life that we have? What characteristics does it bear and radiate…what do we absorb and in turn exude?
Friday, July 17, 2009
The Grind No Longer.
June 28, 2009
“I come to you now, in this time, seeking solace, guidance and discernment.” I begin my quiet time today.
I find the word solace frequenting my mind and in ways a feeling of my heart. This is a desire of the heart coming to mind. Not vice versa. Heart to mind. I don’t even know where the term is coming from, as it is not one which I use frequently, yet I sense truth with intrigue as I examine its meaning further.
I think of peace and comfort when I think “Solace”. A quiet serenity emanating from within—goodness per say. I sat on the front porch this week performing my morning ritual: pajamas, coffee, bible, fresh air and sunshine all upon the gentle sway of the aged porch swing. Solace. “Mornin’. How are ya?” I ask the towering black man who passes with a bounce in his step. “How are you?” he says with a bit more than a garnish of surprise in his voice. “I am well,” I reply as my chest rises and lowers as if a breath of peace in the breeze comes into my lungs. “What does that mean?” the man, still a bit puzzled as to why I even spoke to him inquires. “Great; Peaceful.” He begins to question what I am doing, saying that I am not good, but “Blessed”. I agree. His gospel-like dialect continues to emerge as he continues down his line of questioning: “What are you reading?” acknowledging the “book” on my lap. He comes to find that it is in fact my bible and not just a book then gently smiles, “And that is why you said hello.” He continues on his way, same bounce in his step, “God bless you.” “You too.”
Why it is that these times seem few and far between? These simple moments in which one can only arrive upon or within when “the stars are aligned”. Sometimes we miss them because we are too busy to truly live them. That in itself is a sad statement, but one in which we can all find a disheartening truth. Honestly, when do I find this gift upon me? Most frequently with a cup of coffee in-hand, milling through the world, quietly challenging its constant tribulations with a book close by. I find solace is there. But, why? How?
In these times, I stop and offer nothing. Nada.
Oftentimes I find myself wandering, wandering and searching for so much more than this entertainment-enriched, “anything-and-everything is possible” world. All I want is quiet; all I desire is peace. Sound familiar?
No television, no busyness, no flashy glimmer and glitz—
it isn’t even peace, but solace that my heart is seeking.
For in the solace, peace ensues. The word brims to the surface again.
Solace that I seek—what is that? It is something I am coming to find I will always seek and truly all of our hearts’ desire. Solace. 1. Comfort at a time of sadness, grief or disappointment 2. Somebody or something that provides comfort in times of sadness, grief or disappointment. Synonyms: comfort, consolation, support, relief, succor. Antonym: aggravation (Encarta.com).
Has someone died; has tragedy struck and reconciliation needed? Family problems? Tough day, week or year(s) at work? No? Yes? Yes. We are desperately crying out for Solace. Someone or something that provides comfort. Desperately.
We are not ok. Even if all the pieces seem to be coming together, there is a piece missing; things are looking good for the future and the family is healthy, but the question looms: When is the next storm coming? Should I batter down the hatches and be ready for the worst or is it just a few scattered showers? Hard to say…the weatherman is only right approximately forty percent of the time yet we tune in every night to check in. Maybe even a few times throughout the day as well. Forty percent. We rely on the 40%. Now wonder we need solace. Our rest and comfort, our plans rely on the 40% that the man with the map tells us every evening?
No matter how sunny it may seem outside the window at this moment or how warm the sun’s rays feel as you bask, there is a raging storm pounding on our windows. The Middle East, the economic downturn, the consistent bills arriving daily. The questionable job market, the ever-changing needs and desires of your family, the food on the table, the roof over your head. This is the world in which we live. Teenage pregnancy, broken families, abuse, neglect, miseducation, malnutrition—the number impoverished of lives that continue to rise. The storm is raging.
But it’s sunny outside; the weather is great, perfect for boating and summertime cookouts. Is there Hope? A break in the storm? Solace, Truth, Sonshine? Do not be ignorant, yet yes, never lose Hope.
Our sadness lies in uncertainty, our disappointment in broken relationships and hopes for this world and our lives that have come to pass yet not materialize. Yet there is something, someone who provides comfort in times of sadness, grief or disappointment. Someone who gives graciously: relief, consolation and succor. We don’t have to wait for the “stars to align” or a miracle to take place. Funny how we skeptically, yet anxiously await such events; they have come to pass. We no longer need to wait, but embrace the miracle and look to the star and follow as many have before us.
Follow to where? Solace. A quiet peace where true goodness lies. No glitz, no glamour, just a family. Parents and a child—an environment seeping with the overwhelming simplicity of true love.
What we seek we elude in the chase.
Don’t we see—we all have this deep-seeded desire for rest; Enough is Enough. It is Freedom from exertion, aggravation that we want! We are only free when we can sit as we are—wholly accepted and loved, just as a small child. One the most needy living beings in the world, yet loved and adored and utterly provided for. Completely vulnerable and completely supported. We are the children of God. We are the small children in complete need, vulnerable and crying out for more than we know, but need to humbly accept the nurture of a loving parent. Even Jesus as a child needed cared for and God gave him to Mary and Joseph to do so. Even the Son of God, God himself in human form needed. He needed loving parents to take care of him, to provide for him. So why is it that we are too strong, too busy, even too “good” for the loving support…relief—solace of our loving father?
Where does your trust lie? Have you found solace?
He wants to give it to you:
in the sun,
the coffee shop,
your home,
at the beach,
even your workplace.
He is here offering more. More than we can handle. All we have to do is seek it and accept it each day.
Listen to what He tells us:
I have to come…So that your Joy may be complete, to heal the brokenhearted, bring the dead to life…to tell you to stop; eat, for I am the Bread of Life. You never need to go hungry again. True nourishment.
Each day it is a brave act of abandonment, but one we so desperately need.
Let go of the place you have built here that you can embrace as solace, yet will mourn as it fades away. For one day we may come upon the truth that his “yoke is easy and his burden is light”. Slow and steady as the animals plow the field, solace demands time and surrender. It is within his yoke, his solace He desires us to live, and we desire to truly live, eternally. And behind the yoke, in its wake, all is changed. Together, everything changes. Just as a field is transformed, so too is our world.
“Thy kingdom come, thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven.”
Can you imagine?
Cover and comfort from the storm. The threatening storm soon becomes the soothing rhythm upon the sturdy roof under which we rest well. Every day. Every night. Let us begin. Let us live in solace.
“I come to you now, in this time, seeking solace, guidance and discernment.” I begin my quiet time today.
I find the word solace frequenting my mind and in ways a feeling of my heart. This is a desire of the heart coming to mind. Not vice versa. Heart to mind. I don’t even know where the term is coming from, as it is not one which I use frequently, yet I sense truth with intrigue as I examine its meaning further.
I think of peace and comfort when I think “Solace”. A quiet serenity emanating from within—goodness per say. I sat on the front porch this week performing my morning ritual: pajamas, coffee, bible, fresh air and sunshine all upon the gentle sway of the aged porch swing. Solace. “Mornin’. How are ya?” I ask the towering black man who passes with a bounce in his step. “How are you?” he says with a bit more than a garnish of surprise in his voice. “I am well,” I reply as my chest rises and lowers as if a breath of peace in the breeze comes into my lungs. “What does that mean?” the man, still a bit puzzled as to why I even spoke to him inquires. “Great; Peaceful.” He begins to question what I am doing, saying that I am not good, but “Blessed”. I agree. His gospel-like dialect continues to emerge as he continues down his line of questioning: “What are you reading?” acknowledging the “book” on my lap. He comes to find that it is in fact my bible and not just a book then gently smiles, “And that is why you said hello.” He continues on his way, same bounce in his step, “God bless you.” “You too.”
Why it is that these times seem few and far between? These simple moments in which one can only arrive upon or within when “the stars are aligned”. Sometimes we miss them because we are too busy to truly live them. That in itself is a sad statement, but one in which we can all find a disheartening truth. Honestly, when do I find this gift upon me? Most frequently with a cup of coffee in-hand, milling through the world, quietly challenging its constant tribulations with a book close by. I find solace is there. But, why? How?
In these times, I stop and offer nothing. Nada.
Oftentimes I find myself wandering, wandering and searching for so much more than this entertainment-enriched, “anything-and-everything is possible” world. All I want is quiet; all I desire is peace. Sound familiar?
No television, no busyness, no flashy glimmer and glitz—
it isn’t even peace, but solace that my heart is seeking.
For in the solace, peace ensues. The word brims to the surface again.
Solace that I seek—what is that? It is something I am coming to find I will always seek and truly all of our hearts’ desire. Solace. 1. Comfort at a time of sadness, grief or disappointment 2. Somebody or something that provides comfort in times of sadness, grief or disappointment. Synonyms: comfort, consolation, support, relief, succor. Antonym: aggravation (Encarta.com).
Has someone died; has tragedy struck and reconciliation needed? Family problems? Tough day, week or year(s) at work? No? Yes? Yes. We are desperately crying out for Solace. Someone or something that provides comfort. Desperately.
We are not ok. Even if all the pieces seem to be coming together, there is a piece missing; things are looking good for the future and the family is healthy, but the question looms: When is the next storm coming? Should I batter down the hatches and be ready for the worst or is it just a few scattered showers? Hard to say…the weatherman is only right approximately forty percent of the time yet we tune in every night to check in. Maybe even a few times throughout the day as well. Forty percent. We rely on the 40%. Now wonder we need solace. Our rest and comfort, our plans rely on the 40% that the man with the map tells us every evening?
No matter how sunny it may seem outside the window at this moment or how warm the sun’s rays feel as you bask, there is a raging storm pounding on our windows. The Middle East, the economic downturn, the consistent bills arriving daily. The questionable job market, the ever-changing needs and desires of your family, the food on the table, the roof over your head. This is the world in which we live. Teenage pregnancy, broken families, abuse, neglect, miseducation, malnutrition—the number impoverished of lives that continue to rise. The storm is raging.
But it’s sunny outside; the weather is great, perfect for boating and summertime cookouts. Is there Hope? A break in the storm? Solace, Truth, Sonshine? Do not be ignorant, yet yes, never lose Hope.
Our sadness lies in uncertainty, our disappointment in broken relationships and hopes for this world and our lives that have come to pass yet not materialize. Yet there is something, someone who provides comfort in times of sadness, grief or disappointment. Someone who gives graciously: relief, consolation and succor. We don’t have to wait for the “stars to align” or a miracle to take place. Funny how we skeptically, yet anxiously await such events; they have come to pass. We no longer need to wait, but embrace the miracle and look to the star and follow as many have before us.
Follow to where? Solace. A quiet peace where true goodness lies. No glitz, no glamour, just a family. Parents and a child—an environment seeping with the overwhelming simplicity of true love.
What we seek we elude in the chase.
Don’t we see—we all have this deep-seeded desire for rest; Enough is Enough. It is Freedom from exertion, aggravation that we want! We are only free when we can sit as we are—wholly accepted and loved, just as a small child. One the most needy living beings in the world, yet loved and adored and utterly provided for. Completely vulnerable and completely supported. We are the children of God. We are the small children in complete need, vulnerable and crying out for more than we know, but need to humbly accept the nurture of a loving parent. Even Jesus as a child needed cared for and God gave him to Mary and Joseph to do so. Even the Son of God, God himself in human form needed. He needed loving parents to take care of him, to provide for him. So why is it that we are too strong, too busy, even too “good” for the loving support…relief—solace of our loving father?
Where does your trust lie? Have you found solace?
He wants to give it to you:
in the sun,
the coffee shop,
your home,
at the beach,
even your workplace.
He is here offering more. More than we can handle. All we have to do is seek it and accept it each day.
Listen to what He tells us:
I have to come…So that your Joy may be complete, to heal the brokenhearted, bring the dead to life…to tell you to stop; eat, for I am the Bread of Life. You never need to go hungry again. True nourishment.
Each day it is a brave act of abandonment, but one we so desperately need.
Let go of the place you have built here that you can embrace as solace, yet will mourn as it fades away. For one day we may come upon the truth that his “yoke is easy and his burden is light”. Slow and steady as the animals plow the field, solace demands time and surrender. It is within his yoke, his solace He desires us to live, and we desire to truly live, eternally. And behind the yoke, in its wake, all is changed. Together, everything changes. Just as a field is transformed, so too is our world.
“Thy kingdom come, thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven.”
Can you imagine?
Cover and comfort from the storm. The threatening storm soon becomes the soothing rhythm upon the sturdy roof under which we rest well. Every day. Every night. Let us begin. Let us live in solace.
Sunday, June 7, 2009
La Busequeda
3:39 A.M. Sunday, June 7, 2009-
I still sit and wonder how I have the life which I live? Where did my heart come from and how did it get to the place in which I sit? My hunch is this heart within me is not just from two stellar individuals in Painesville, Ohio. (props to them, nonetheless)
Where am I, you ask, at 3:39 in the morning? Most my age, in the wee hours of the morning, would be stumbling home intoxicated or quite possibly passed out on a couch, floor or who-knows-where. Quite the contrary, I find myself sitting in a sanctuary in La Paz, Bolivia. Somehow, not so contrastingly, I am amongst people seeking after the answers others seek after who are "out" at this time of night/morning. As living beings, we all seek the same mysterious and eluding answers, yet fortunately, I am not in the state in which others are in consequence to the dire search. How blessed I am. We are all curious of much which will elude us our entire lives, yet this does not minimize the search or abounding numbers of those who venture out upon this meaningful journey of life. No, it is precisely this that intrigues us all to venture out, panting for truth. Something so lofty seems to render itself out of reach, yet nothing could be farther from the truth. The simplicity of each day and the abounding beauty which adorns each one is all that we search for: The encompassing beauty, the beauty that lies within, the beauty in which only a loving father and creator can bestow. And His most cherished creation, his "cherry on the top" of all, each one of us. Each one unique and precious, specifically and uniquely bearing a beauty which only that individual has to offer to the rest of us. So the question, " Why me? Who am I?
The Answer: "You are the beloved and the the beloved is mine." You are the daughter, the son, of the one and only Loving and Magnificent Creator of the world. And if each of us chooses to rest in that truth and live in that beauty, the world can only shine more radiantly than it does in its most simplistic truth and beauty- sunrise and sunset.
La veridad esta en la busequeda. And there is always another attempt, another chance. God demonstrates his redeeming love and grace so poignantly to his people each day, beginning and end. We all have a chance to see the beauty of a sunrise and sunset; we all have the same opportunity to see and experience His Grace; beauty that words can not express.
It's now 4:30; it seems as though I may have that breathtaking chance to experience one more of His great wonders, reminding me of what that sunrise truly means.
I still sit and wonder how I have the life which I live? Where did my heart come from and how did it get to the place in which I sit? My hunch is this heart within me is not just from two stellar individuals in Painesville, Ohio. (props to them, nonetheless)
Where am I, you ask, at 3:39 in the morning? Most my age, in the wee hours of the morning, would be stumbling home intoxicated or quite possibly passed out on a couch, floor or who-knows-where. Quite the contrary, I find myself sitting in a sanctuary in La Paz, Bolivia. Somehow, not so contrastingly, I am amongst people seeking after the answers others seek after who are "out" at this time of night/morning. As living beings, we all seek the same mysterious and eluding answers, yet fortunately, I am not in the state in which others are in consequence to the dire search. How blessed I am. We are all curious of much which will elude us our entire lives, yet this does not minimize the search or abounding numbers of those who venture out upon this meaningful journey of life. No, it is precisely this that intrigues us all to venture out, panting for truth. Something so lofty seems to render itself out of reach, yet nothing could be farther from the truth. The simplicity of each day and the abounding beauty which adorns each one is all that we search for: The encompassing beauty, the beauty that lies within, the beauty in which only a loving father and creator can bestow. And His most cherished creation, his "cherry on the top" of all, each one of us. Each one unique and precious, specifically and uniquely bearing a beauty which only that individual has to offer to the rest of us. So the question, " Why me? Who am I?
The Answer: "You are the beloved and the the beloved is mine." You are the daughter, the son, of the one and only Loving and Magnificent Creator of the world. And if each of us chooses to rest in that truth and live in that beauty, the world can only shine more radiantly than it does in its most simplistic truth and beauty- sunrise and sunset.
La veridad esta en la busequeda. And there is always another attempt, another chance. God demonstrates his redeeming love and grace so poignantly to his people each day, beginning and end. We all have a chance to see the beauty of a sunrise and sunset; we all have the same opportunity to see and experience His Grace; beauty that words can not express.
It's now 4:30; it seems as though I may have that breathtaking chance to experience one more of His great wonders, reminding me of what that sunrise truly means.
Monday, June 1, 2009
Truth
I have been blessed abundantly throughout life and the blessings continue richly. I look forward to an amazing summer of adventure and renewal.
You have placed upon me, within me a burden for this world, a burden for your people, yet what I am to do?
Here I am send me?
Where and when? Here and now?
I listen.
You are the God of this world, creator of our souls and surroundings. And you have made them good. Adversely, we have chosen a different course.
You have not forgotten, you have not forsaken:
Here I am, choose Me.
Here I am, Choose Life.
Here I am, be renewed.
For here I am, for you.
Each day.
Every day.
For you.
You have placed upon me, within me a burden for this world, a burden for your people, yet what I am to do?
Here I am send me?
Where and when? Here and now?
I listen.
You are the God of this world, creator of our souls and surroundings. And you have made them good. Adversely, we have chosen a different course.
You have not forgotten, you have not forsaken:
Here I am, choose Me.
Here I am, Choose Life.
Here I am, be renewed.
For here I am, for you.
Each day.
Every day.
For you.
Saturday, March 7, 2009
I was shaking....
When the announcement was made on Friday, I was shaking...
VOICES OF OUR YOUTH UPDATE:
“I am the one whose voice can change the world.”
After two months of vigilance and hard work, the seventh and eighth grade students of ACS saw their efforts come to life in an amazing Evening of the Arts, March 5. Last Thursday evening, the elementary auditorium was full of sincere honesty and generosity as the ACS community gathered to hear the hearts and minds of the Class of 2013 and 2014. Audience members were entertained, challenged and moved by the “Voices of Our Youth” and their desire to improve the lives of the children of Virgen de Fatima Orphanage in Obrajes. Because of the hard work of our seventh and eighth grade students and the generosity of many throughout the Zona Sur, over $2,300 was raised and over 5,500 diapers were donated to improve children’s lives in our local community.
If you would like to continue supporting the seventh and eighth graders in their quest to aid the children of Virgen de Fatima, you can purchase a Voices of Our Youth T-shirt for 70bs or make a donation by emailing Lyndsey Deane at ldeane@acslp.org. If you would like to relive the evening, you can also purchase a VOOY DVD for 50bs by contacting Ms. Deane.
Thank you goes out to our 40 local sponsors as well as the ACS community for supporting this very worthy cause.
VOICES OF OUR YOUTH UPDATE:
“I am the one whose voice can change the world.”
After two months of vigilance and hard work, the seventh and eighth grade students of ACS saw their efforts come to life in an amazing Evening of the Arts, March 5. Last Thursday evening, the elementary auditorium was full of sincere honesty and generosity as the ACS community gathered to hear the hearts and minds of the Class of 2013 and 2014. Audience members were entertained, challenged and moved by the “Voices of Our Youth” and their desire to improve the lives of the children of Virgen de Fatima Orphanage in Obrajes. Because of the hard work of our seventh and eighth grade students and the generosity of many throughout the Zona Sur, over $2,300 was raised and over 5,500 diapers were donated to improve children’s lives in our local community.
If you would like to continue supporting the seventh and eighth graders in their quest to aid the children of Virgen de Fatima, you can purchase a Voices of Our Youth T-shirt for 70bs or make a donation by emailing Lyndsey Deane at ldeane@acslp.org. If you would like to relive the evening, you can also purchase a VOOY DVD for 50bs by contacting Ms. Deane.
Thank you goes out to our 40 local sponsors as well as the ACS community for supporting this very worthy cause.
Friday, February 27, 2009
The Meaning of VOOY
The Meaning of VOOY
Have you ever heard of kids who aren’t taken seriously and truly these kids are right? I am one of those kids/teenagers. This is why VOOY is so important to me, and it should be to my classmates. VOOY stands for “Voices of Our Youth” and the reason it’s important to me is because it’s the only time that I’m taken very seriously.
In this event, all of the kids in 7th and 8th grade present our opinions on matters of life and the world. We all work for a reason: helping Virgen de Fatma orphanage and Para Los Niños. Last year we were able to help build another house for the orphans and they were very thankful. We visited the orphans and we saw how much they appreciated what they had, so we donate all the money raised to help make the orphanage better. I know the people who come to VOOY will be entertained and they will see how our opinions on matters can make a difference.
If you would like to help us make a difference by purchasing a ticket or making a donation, please contact: Jessica Delgado, School Counselor 279-2302 ext. 219 or jdelgado@acslp.org
-8th grade student
Voices of Our Youth.
“I am the one whose voice can change the world.”
March 5, 2009.
ACS
19:00 P.M.
Have you ever heard of kids who aren’t taken seriously and truly these kids are right? I am one of those kids/teenagers. This is why VOOY is so important to me, and it should be to my classmates. VOOY stands for “Voices of Our Youth” and the reason it’s important to me is because it’s the only time that I’m taken very seriously.
In this event, all of the kids in 7th and 8th grade present our opinions on matters of life and the world. We all work for a reason: helping Virgen de Fatma orphanage and Para Los Niños. Last year we were able to help build another house for the orphans and they were very thankful. We visited the orphans and we saw how much they appreciated what they had, so we donate all the money raised to help make the orphanage better. I know the people who come to VOOY will be entertained and they will see how our opinions on matters can make a difference.
If you would like to help us make a difference by purchasing a ticket or making a donation, please contact: Jessica Delgado, School Counselor 279-2302 ext. 219 or jdelgado@acslp.org
-8th grade student
Voices of Our Youth.
“I am the one whose voice can change the world.”
March 5, 2009.
ACS
19:00 P.M.
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
A Different Voice
So this is what is happening, but instead of me telling you about it secondhand, I'll let you hear it straight from the "horse's mouth".
Voices Of Our Youth.
VOOY, yes we did do it last year and yes it was fun.
VOOY, Voices of Our Youth, is a way for us, middle schoolers, to express what we think or what we feel. This is an opportunity for parents or any adult to hear and see what is going on in our heads and how every single one of us has a different way of looking at the world and people.
To me VOOY means being able to say and present what I really believe in without people laughing at me. It’s a great way to express yourself because it doesn’t have to be a written paper, you can present you thoughts in any way you want. Anything creative is fine because that is expressing yourself.
VOOY also means helping children and people. The money that we make goes Para Los Niños and Virgen de Fatima orphanage to help those children who are not as fortunate as we are. They build new “casitas” and buy new playground equipment.
-ACS, 8th grade student.
Do you want to help us help these children? Make a donation or buy tickets from: Jessica Delgado, School Counselor 279-2302 ext. 219 or jdelgado@acslp.org
Voices of Our Youth.
“I am the one whose voice can change the world.”
March 5, 2009.
ACS
19:00 P.M.
Voices Of Our Youth.
VOOY, yes we did do it last year and yes it was fun.
VOOY, Voices of Our Youth, is a way for us, middle schoolers, to express what we think or what we feel. This is an opportunity for parents or any adult to hear and see what is going on in our heads and how every single one of us has a different way of looking at the world and people.
To me VOOY means being able to say and present what I really believe in without people laughing at me. It’s a great way to express yourself because it doesn’t have to be a written paper, you can present you thoughts in any way you want. Anything creative is fine because that is expressing yourself.
VOOY also means helping children and people. The money that we make goes Para Los Niños and Virgen de Fatima orphanage to help those children who are not as fortunate as we are. They build new “casitas” and buy new playground equipment.
-ACS, 8th grade student.
Do you want to help us help these children? Make a donation or buy tickets from: Jessica Delgado, School Counselor 279-2302 ext. 219 or jdelgado@acslp.org
Voices of Our Youth.
“I am the one whose voice can change the world.”
March 5, 2009.
ACS
19:00 P.M.
Saturday, January 17, 2009
Again We Begin.
Here's to another year and to all the blessings which have been bestowed. Holiday travel was priceless; time with friends and family, irreplaceable. Ok, well the travel, maybe priceless is not the word, but the quality time, definitely irreplaceable.
As I look back at the time that has passed, I am thankful for more than words can say. I pray that as time continues to pass, my heart is and always will be in a state of gratitude. My holiday readings have lead me to believe that one has to look back to move forward, or possibly just around. It's hard to not be cliche this time of the year and for all the talk of new beginnings and fresh outlooks, it seems as though not much change or simply the new year's "refreshment" is short-lived. Maybe each month we should have such a benchmark to evaluate the quality of life? But does life truly allow a person the time to do such?
What a shame. Oh, did I answer that question?
Where are we in life that we can't live? There are so many coulda, woulda, shouldas. And with examining each one it seems as though a person is not in a place of improvement or growth, but lingering to some extent, indefinitely. Again, is that where we are to be? "To be or not to be?" To linger or live?
My brother aggravatingly noted over a holiday meal that most "cutting edge art" these days is saying the same things it always has...we have problems. Sounds cutting edge to me. But how about state something we don't already know, suggestions for truly something cutting edge, new, successful, even disastrous. We don't dare do that though. Lingering comfortably in our fear and concern for the state of the world and the inevitable crisis approaching is a much better state in which to live. Now, I apologize to him for my lacking and possibly somewhat skewed summary of his comments, yet honestly, what would this world look like if we stopped dwelling and wallowing in the hurts of the world? I am not suggesting ignorance or apathy, living beyond our means or putting our heads under a pillow. But I place before you the opposite, life. Conversely living aware, open to what is currently transpiring within our communities and beyond what our flat screen, plasma box of emotion or articles of fear (online or paper) lead us to believe. Have we stopped thinking and coming to our own conclusions entirely? Do we question if possibly the box could be wrong?
Now I understand that opinions may differ and people will clash, but is not firsthand experience and application two of the best practices of learning? Does learning not aid growth? Is not growth a part of life?
I hate the stereotypical technology debate. Is Technology helping or harming our world? I feel as though the subject of the question is incorrect. I believe it would be better if stated as, Is the user of technology helping or harming the world? Is the user/operator of _________________ helping or harming the world? We as humans have power and choice. We were all given minds and talents. We are living in a world of "endless opportunities". Such things are unfortunately not accessible to all people, yet the truth still lies in not what, but who and how. Who is acting how, with what intentions?
People have been witness to unimaginable travesty throughout history, and sadly, more of those times are imminent. Nevertheless, it is inevitable that joyous times are here and will continue to come. Who and how. Who are we and how are we spending our time, using our talents?
"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed it is the only thing that ever has." Margaret Mead
To what are we committed? To the greater good, which we too will benefit, or the small sphere in which we operate everyday? We desire our lives to be fruitful and joyous, however we lose sight that the life we live in not just a small community, but a larger world. There are intimately tied, eternally effecting the other. There is no escaping the world, people, culture, life. At times we try so desperately, yet is that not what we are earnestly seeking?
"Seek first His Kingdom and His righteousness and all of these things shall be given unto you." All people have life; we all seek to love, be loved and live in that love. Why is it that we fight when what we seek is love? Again, who and how? Gandhi was a smart man. "Be the change you wish to see in world." A young man I ran with in high school said, "Don't talk about it, BE about it." If we want love, we need to be love. All Jesus did was love. And if you love him or hate him, he loved. Enough to die to show and share his love with anyone who is willing to recognize it. You don't have to like him, but there is no denying, He was and still is the ultimate exemplar of what we all so desperately seem to be seeking. In His kingdom there is no fire and brimstone, no alienation, no sword, just life. He promises Life. A life. God brought it here openly to share with the world.
I pray that each of us live openly sharing what we seek to find in this new year.
As I look back at the time that has passed, I am thankful for more than words can say. I pray that as time continues to pass, my heart is and always will be in a state of gratitude. My holiday readings have lead me to believe that one has to look back to move forward, or possibly just around. It's hard to not be cliche this time of the year and for all the talk of new beginnings and fresh outlooks, it seems as though not much change or simply the new year's "refreshment" is short-lived. Maybe each month we should have such a benchmark to evaluate the quality of life? But does life truly allow a person the time to do such?
What a shame. Oh, did I answer that question?
Where are we in life that we can't live? There are so many coulda, woulda, shouldas. And with examining each one it seems as though a person is not in a place of improvement or growth, but lingering to some extent, indefinitely. Again, is that where we are to be? "To be or not to be?" To linger or live?
My brother aggravatingly noted over a holiday meal that most "cutting edge art" these days is saying the same things it always has...we have problems. Sounds cutting edge to me. But how about state something we don't already know, suggestions for truly something cutting edge, new, successful, even disastrous. We don't dare do that though. Lingering comfortably in our fear and concern for the state of the world and the inevitable crisis approaching is a much better state in which to live. Now, I apologize to him for my lacking and possibly somewhat skewed summary of his comments, yet honestly, what would this world look like if we stopped dwelling and wallowing in the hurts of the world? I am not suggesting ignorance or apathy, living beyond our means or putting our heads under a pillow. But I place before you the opposite, life. Conversely living aware, open to what is currently transpiring within our communities and beyond what our flat screen, plasma box of emotion or articles of fear (online or paper) lead us to believe. Have we stopped thinking and coming to our own conclusions entirely? Do we question if possibly the box could be wrong?
Now I understand that opinions may differ and people will clash, but is not firsthand experience and application two of the best practices of learning? Does learning not aid growth? Is not growth a part of life?
I hate the stereotypical technology debate. Is Technology helping or harming our world? I feel as though the subject of the question is incorrect. I believe it would be better if stated as, Is the user of technology helping or harming the world? Is the user/operator of _________________ helping or harming the world? We as humans have power and choice. We were all given minds and talents. We are living in a world of "endless opportunities". Such things are unfortunately not accessible to all people, yet the truth still lies in not what, but who and how. Who is acting how, with what intentions?
People have been witness to unimaginable travesty throughout history, and sadly, more of those times are imminent. Nevertheless, it is inevitable that joyous times are here and will continue to come. Who and how. Who are we and how are we spending our time, using our talents?
"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed it is the only thing that ever has." Margaret Mead
To what are we committed? To the greater good, which we too will benefit, or the small sphere in which we operate everyday? We desire our lives to be fruitful and joyous, however we lose sight that the life we live in not just a small community, but a larger world. There are intimately tied, eternally effecting the other. There is no escaping the world, people, culture, life. At times we try so desperately, yet is that not what we are earnestly seeking?
"Seek first His Kingdom and His righteousness and all of these things shall be given unto you." All people have life; we all seek to love, be loved and live in that love. Why is it that we fight when what we seek is love? Again, who and how? Gandhi was a smart man. "Be the change you wish to see in world." A young man I ran with in high school said, "Don't talk about it, BE about it." If we want love, we need to be love. All Jesus did was love. And if you love him or hate him, he loved. Enough to die to show and share his love with anyone who is willing to recognize it. You don't have to like him, but there is no denying, He was and still is the ultimate exemplar of what we all so desperately seem to be seeking. In His kingdom there is no fire and brimstone, no alienation, no sword, just life. He promises Life. A life. God brought it here openly to share with the world.
I pray that each of us live openly sharing what we seek to find in this new year.
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