When you ain't got nothin', you got nothin' to lose.

I bid thee farewell...

2009-04-13T01:28:00.000-07:00

http://aaronmwilliams.tumblr.com/

2009-03-24T21:56:00.000-07:00

“I have compassion on the crowd because they have been with me now three days and have nothing to eat. And I am unwilling to send them away hungry, lest they faint on the way.” 33 And the disciples said to him, “Where are we to get enough bread in such a desolate place to feed so great a crowd?” 34 And Jesus said to them, “How many loaves do you have?” They said, “Seven, and a few small fish.” 35 And directing the crowd to sit down on the ground, 36 he took the seven loaves and the fish, and having given thanks he broke them and gave them to the disciples, and the disciples gave them to the crowds. 37 And they all ate and were satisfied. And they took up seven baskets full of the broken pieces left over. 38 Those who ate were four thousand men, besides women and children. 39 And after sending away the crowds, he got into the boat and went to the region of Magadan.

2009-03-19T22:27:00.000-07:00

Nature, my friends, is straight crazy.

An undersea volcano erupts sending plumes of steam, ash and smoke up to 100 metres into the air, on 18 March 2009 off the coast of Nuku'Alofa, Tonga.(BBC, photo taken by Dana Stephenson/Getty Images)

"Yeah, there'll be peace on my soul one day...reconciled I'll be on my way."

2009-03-18T16:02:00.000-07:00

2 And he opened his mouth and taught them, saying:

3 “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

4 “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.

5 “Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.

6 “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.

7 “Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy.

8 “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.

9 “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons [1] of God.

10 “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

Song of the Week

2009-03-17T22:41:00.000-07:00

Happy Holi

2009-03-14T20:18:00.001-07:00

Hey UCLA fans and rest of the PAC 10...

2009-03-09T12:37:00.000-07:00

"I am all the days you choose to ignore"

2009-02-16T20:59:00.000-08:00

1.5 million

200,000

650,000

5,000

"11 Rescue those who are being taken away to death;
hold back those who are stumbling to the slaughter.
12 If you say, “Behold, we did not know this,”
does not he who weighs the heart perceive it?
Does not he who keeps watch over your soul know it,
and will he not repay man according to his work? "
-Proverbs 24:11-12

I got Swagga' and a Sore Throat...

2009-02-09T20:43:00.000-08:00

This past weekend I was heeeeeeeeeeeeeeckka sick. For three days I layed on the couch, hydrated, probably destroyed half a rain forest with the amount of tissue I used, and lived on a strict diet chicken noodle soup, oatmeal, and carrots and apples. I slept and watched alot of TV. Being sick also gave me the excuse to watch 4hrs straight of Sunday nights Grammy Awards. On any other year I would have settled for staring at a wall before watching the Grammy's but this year... Radiohead, Coldplay, Paul McCartney, and Robert Plant were performing...Heck of a lineup right? I thought so...and on went my night. Here are some of the observations I made in between sips of a cranberry juice

Though being a Coldplay fan and already knowing this...I was again blown away with how well Coldplay play's live events...and more re-blown away by how charming Chris Martin is every time he talks. I swear if Chris Martin and I sat down to a cup of Refresh Starbucks Tazo Tea and he told me moon doesn't exist I might just take his word for it.

Bono is a crazy old man

Even though I try really hard tell my self the opposite...that Estelle song with Kanye is the catchiest little song I've ever heard

Even though I wanted to applaud MIA while performing on her due date...I was also was honestly holding my breath that we would not see the first on-stage birth. I've never seen anybody so pregnant in my life...

I give in...Paul McCartney is AWESOME...Coachella here I...

I'm sorry Taylor Swift and Miley fan's...I'm just really not sooold on this gig...

I also can't stand the Jonas Brothers. I'm sick in tired about hearing about how young and talented they are. Ok you got the young part. The talent though.....there really is none!! Almost every time I see them perform they're singing over a recording and most of the time not playing their instruments.Usually talent has something to do with DOING SOMETHING WELL if at least DOING SOMETHING AT ALL. Until I can actually see them performing live music all on their own...I'm won't be sold. Then again..I probably still wont be.

Stevie Wonder is the man

Al Green has a high voice

Radiohead has the best live performances maybe ever...they showed that last night. It was really weird seeing them on TV though...Let alone at the Grammy's.

"Sweet Caroline" makes me sooooo happy. I was literally singing the song with Neil last night during the performance. Sweet Caroline!!!!! BA BA BA!!!

Robert Plant has an incredible voice for being almost completely deaf,extremely old now, and for living through the Led Zep days...(most of you know what I mean by this.)

I've come to the conclusion that I love hip hop. hate the content, love the sound.

Speaking of which...How does Lil' Wayne make his voice sound like it does

By the way...Jennifer Hudson gots pipes! ahem...she sings really well.

Woooooooooa!

2009-02-02T21:58:00.001-08:00

"Don't think twice it's alright"

2009-01-30T19:31:00.000-08:00

I love browsing through music photography. Here are a handful of my favs.

Dylan

Maya & Santi

Régine Chassagne of Arcade Fire

the rest of the Arcade Fire

Santogold watching John Lennon

The Walkmen

Sigur Ros

2009-01-26T15:29:00.000-08:00

Thousands of people have lost their livelihoods, possessions, homes and family members…everything. Please help us help Gaza. (from the UNRWA)

"17 For the Lord your God is God of gods and Lord of lords, the great, the mighty, and the awesome God, who is not partial and takes no bribe. 18 He executes justice for the fatherless and the widow, and loves the sojourner, giving him food and clothing. 19 Love the sojourner, therefore, for you were sojourners in the land of Egypt." (Deuteronomy 10:17-19)

"Is it a dream? Is it a lie? I think I’ll let you decide."

2009-01-19T21:38:00.000-08:00

It's amazing how tomorrow's inauguration has become such a big deal. I never remember really anybody talking, or for that matter, actually getting excited about a presidential inauguration ceremony in the past elections. It is a kind of big deal though, tomorrow...is basically the first day of the Obama era, which means all the marketing campaigns, posters,Arcade Fire performances, and well...the talk is all over. Its time to see if Obama actually walks what he talks...and if America can really come together.

One thing is for sure in the coming years...things are going to get reeeal interesting.They're will be many instances and opportunities for us as individuals to stand up and for what we stand for. Politics will not always and never will be the complete answer to the problems and injustices of our world, but what we need to realize is that plugging into the political system, individual citizens standing up for what they stand for and believe in by plugging into that system,can get things done.If people want change in Darfur, in American civil rights, in a flawed system, in Gaza, they're are going to have to be willing to work for that change themselves, whether that's using the system or creating their own.

Obama won't be the Messiah. He does, however, have the opportunity to do great things in the years to come. Only time will tell...

2009-01-13T15:15:00.000-08:00

Thanks everyone for praying for my family and I during the flood. The water is officially back where it's suppose to be thankfully. My last couple days of vacation home were spent helping the fam clean up our property, which was a huge blessing for my family (having an extra body around is always a plus). Though the flood is over, prayer is still needed. In wake of the flood there will probably be a pretty hefty financial burden on my parents. Pray for my parents trust in the Lord's faithfulness, pray that "the bank" and FEMA would should mercy and understanding, and finally pray that this whole circumstance whether to the extreme best outcome or the extreme worst outcome...would bring my family closer to God and strengthen their faith.

"If it keeps on rainin' the levee's gonna break"

2009-01-06T22:35:00.000-08:00

This week I traveled home to my humble abode in Snohomish,WA . It's great to be back to spend time with friends and family that I haven't seen in over a year. What has been unwelcome news though for my family and I is the fact that we are on the verge of the biggest flood in Washington state history. I spent my first day back ready-ing some goat and chicken temporary living assignments...this is not what I expected coming home. I ask for your prayers...my family has gone through a lot this year and this flood could mean more financial burden. I will keep you all posted...

Top 10 Sounds of the Year: A Review

2009-01-03T01:09:00.000-08:00

1. Jose Gonzalez" In Our Nature"
2. M.I.A "Kala"
3. Beirut "The Flying Club Cup"
4. Coldplay "Viva La Vida or Death and All His Friends" and "Prospekt's March"
5. Sigur Ros "Takk..."
6. She & Him "Volume One"
7. Pearl Jam "Rearviewmirror (Greatest Hits 1991-2003)"
8. Cat Power "The Greatest"
9. Radiohead "In Rainbows"
10. Bob Dylan "The Freewheelin' Bob Dylan"

2009-01-02T01:13:00.000-08:00

1. Jose Gonzalez "In Our Nature"

Well, here it is, number 1. "In Our Nature" has been a favorite soundtrack to my everyday roamings and drives around Riverside the past few months. Jose Gonzalez, in my opinion has one of the most soothing yet radical voices in the biz. I love his writing and his folksy multi-cultural sound. My favorite quality about his music though is that I can relax, get inspired, or if need be…get pumped in listening to "In Our Nature." His music is simple yet make’s some strong statements…just like me…haha…well…you get the idea.

1. Teardrop
2. Killing for Love
3. Down the Line

2009-01-01T02:57:00.000-08:00

2. M.I.A “Kala”

This album was one of my favorite finds of the year. Yes, Maya can get racy at times and you should listen with wisdom, but I’ve never listened to any musician who is so blunt and honest about the reality of social and political issues around the world.

This album has probably one of my top 3 favorite songs of the year, “Bird Flu” (maybe we’ll have to have a top songs of 2008 list later). Whenever I hear this song, it brings me back to the hills of Northern India; we did a lot of dancing there with the local’s haha. It’s probably the most lively song I’ve ever came across. If you’re not one for dancing, you will be after one listen of this song. “Hussel” paints an interesting perspective on our current “illegal-immigration debate” and “20 dollar” is one of the best depictions of 3rd world injustices and life-style I’ve ever heard in a song. “Paper Planes” is the song you’ve probably heard of. Either way…if you’re one for dancing around your apartment at random hours of the night, love different sounding music, love world beats, and extremely bright colors…M.I.A is an artist you must get to know.

1. Bird Flu
2. 20 Dollar
3. Hussel

2008-12-31T00:15:00.000-08:00

3. Beirut “The Flying Club Cup”

Another great find. I got in to this album when I watched some of Beirut’s performances in Vincent Moon’s film project on Lablogotheque. I love the different instruments used, I love the gypsie street music feel to it, I love the fact that it brings be back to the Middle East every time I listen to it. The whole sound of this album is so different than other material I’ve listened to.Azeem!Momtaz! Using the favorite expression of my friend Jawad, this album is “fantastic!”

1. In The Mausoleum
2. St. Apollonia
3. Nantes

2008-12-30T13:37:00.000-08:00

4. Coldplay “Viva la Vida or Death and All His Friends” and “Prospects March”
I remember downloading this album the night it came out and listening to the entire album song by song. I remember hearing Life in Technicolor for the first time and just getting pumped for the rest of the album. I then recall listening to this album multiple times through, daily, for the next month. With the addition to “Prospects March” (the EP released after “Viva la Vida”) Coldplay’s 2008 was, well… Brilliant!

1. Lovers In Japan
2. Glass of Water
3. Death and All His Friends

2008-12-29T21:32:00.000-08:00

5. Sigur Ros “Takk...”

This is a band that honestly every time I listen to any of their albums I constantly think about the beauty of creation and God and is never ending love…I think about the reward gained after a great risk. The exhilaration of trying something that scares you. To sum it up…for me…listening to Sigur Ros is an emotional overload, and I love it.

1. Glosoli
2. Saeglopur
3. Hoppipolla

2008-12-28T20:46:00.000-08:00

6. She & Him “Volume One”

Although I’ve never been one for celebrity crushes…I must admit…I have a celebrity crush on singer/actor Zooey Deschanel. The reason why I ADmire Zooey is due to her beautiful voice which is on full display in her folksie debut album with M.Ward, who, yes, is her boyfriend…I know…I will allow your condolences. The album, which has a mixed folk/doo-wop sound to it, is full of cover songs as well as some songs written by both Zooey and M.Ward. I listen to this album all the way through time and time again and it never fails to put a smile on my face, a leap in my step, and well…it just makes me feel so dog-gone happy…

1. Why Do You Let Me Stay Here
2. This Is Not A Test
3. I Was Made For You

2008-12-27T19:47:00.000-08:00

Question of the day: Why is the Arab world the only notable group of people outraged by Israel's attacks on Gaza, which left 225 dead, many civilians? Personally I feel we all should be outraged. I get the argument that their going after terrorist that threaten their nation, but...that does not give them the right to have utter lack of regard for civilian life...and its not like this is the first time this has happened. I get the fact that there has been villains on both side's of the field...but lets face it...Palestinians have gotten BY FAR the worst end of the deal. I'm sick and tired of this act. The UN needs to step up, America needs to step up, people need to step up and hold Israel accountable. I admit that I'm not an expert on the current situation but when a country like Israel did what they did, and fully defends the result...it can't be ignored. I encourage everyone to look into the issue themselves and not just take my rant as fact. That's all.

2008-12-27T00:50:00.000-08:00

7. Pearl Jam “Rearviewmirror (Greatest Hits 1991-2003)”

Due to the fact that this is a greatest hits album you honestly can’t go wrong with this 2 disc album by Pearl Jam. It seems every time I pick up the album again after a recent hiatus I find a new song that I fall in love with. Eddie Vedder had “the voice” long before Creed, Nickelback, and a handful of other bands destroyed it. I honestly can’t believe I’m giving Creed or Nickelback the blessing of mentioning their names in this article. Hey, they may be good guys, but their music is so extremely ordinary and knock off (in my opinion)…ugggh..annnnnywaysss….Pearl Jam is one of the few great “rock bands” left. With Vedder’s raspy voice and Gossards incredible guitar prowess…anyone should be sold right off the bat, but for the thick-headed…it might just take a listen through both discs before one throw’s up the white flag. Since this is a 2 disc album, I’m going to give you 2 Top 3’s:

Disc 1

1. Animal
2. Rearviewmirror
3. Not For You

Disc 2

1. Elderly Woman Behind The Counter In A Small Town
2. Off He Goes
3. Nothingman

2008-12-26T00:08:00.000-08:00

8. Cat Power “The Greatest”

Oh, Chan Marshall…How I love your voice. With her distinct voice and bluesy sound Chan Marshall or “Cat Power” is my remedy of choice when I just need to reeelax. For those of you who have never heard of her…you need to, in my opinion she’s one of those artists that everybody needs to listen to. Get on it!Yalla! Here’s the first 3 songs to listen to:

1. The Greatest
2. Willie
3. Love & Communication

Sleep in heavenly peace...

2008-12-25T01:21:00.000-08:00

5 They told him, “In Bethlehem of Judea, for so it is written by the prophet:

6 “‘And you, O Bethlehem, in the land of Judah,
are by no means least among the rulers of Judah;
for from you shall come a ruler
who will shepherd my people Israel.’”

2008-12-25T01:11:00.000-08:00

9. Radiohead “In Rainbows”

I must admit, one of my favorite moments of last fall was a phone call I got from one John David Sachs who announced with much enthusiasm that Radiohead’s new album “In Rainbows” had official came out and…it was…at the price of my choice? What?! I remember listening through the whole album into the wee hours of the night, and just feeling ever so warm inside as crashed my head onto my pillow that night. I remember falling asleep to one of the prettiest songs I had heard to date “Videotape”. If you haven’t already, listen to these:

1. Weird Fishes/Arpeggi
2. Reckoner
3. Videotape

2008-12-24T00:05:00.000-08:00

10. Bob Dylan "The Freewheelin’ Bob Dylan"

Yes, I really do enjoy his voice but for those of you who already enjoy Bob Dylan you already know that its his lyrics that make Dylan’s songs so powerful. I know I could write a massive essay trying to persuade all you Dylan “haters” to Dylan “lovers” but I know its probably not worth my time. “Girl from North Country” is one of only a handful of songs that can make my eyes misty almost every time I listen to it. Listen to it and definitely listen to these:

1. Oxford Town
2. A Hard Rain’s A- Gonna Fall
3. Talkin’ WWIII Blues

Best Sounds of the Year:

2008-12-23T20:20:00.000-08:00

A top 10 list from Aaron M.Williams...

Throughout the next 10 days I will be counting down my favorite albums I've listened to this year. The list is not exclusively for albums that were released in the 2008 fiscal year, rather the list will be comprised of any album from any year that I've listened to this year. Enjoy!

...White Christmas (My house+snow Part 2)

2008-12-21T12:30:00.000-08:00

View from the top of the barn

The River

The River yet again...

the 'ole blue tractor

I'm dreamin' of a...

2008-12-14T19:37:00.001-08:00

Some pictures I recieved from mom & pop's. I miss this...

Before grace I wasn't "worth the blood that runs in my veins."

2008-12-08T16:56:00.000-08:00

2008-12-04T23:36:00.000-08:00

Speaking of Chan...I had to post this. More great lyrics, and you gotta love her energy!

2008-12-04T23:23:00.000-08:00

Chan Marshall is one of my favorite singers. I recently heard this song she covered ,originally written by Bob Dylan, for the first time and it gave me chills. Every time I listen to it I think of all those around the world that actually pay the cost for what they believe in.

"I Believe In You"

They ask me how I feel
And if my love is real
And how I seem
To think that I know
I'm gonna make it through
They looked at me and frowned
They drove me from this town
They don’t want me around
Because I believe
They showed me to the door
They said don't come back no more
We don't like the way
You think you do
So I walked on my own
One thousand miles from my home
But I don't feel alone
'Cause I believe, I do

I believe in you even through all
Tears and laughter
I believe in you, even though
We're apart
I believe in you, even in

The common laughter
Oh, when the dawn is nearing
And when the night is disappearing
This feeling will still
Be here in my heart
In my heart

Please don't let me drift too far
Keep me safe and sound where you are
So I'll always be renewed
And what you've given me here today
Is worth everything I've made
No matter what everyone might say

Because I believe
I believe, I believe
I believe, I believe in you
I believe in you
When we've had no time together
I believe in you
When white turns to black.
I believe in you
Even though we'll all be a number
I'll be oh your earth will be shaken
And friends will be forsaken
Please, we can't go back
I believe in you

2008-11-25T00:39:00.000-08:00

I felt homesick.

Stop living in a dream. Leave your comfort and engage the world.

2008-11-20T16:26:00.000-08:00

(Clinch)

The sun never sets on the Starpublic...

2008-11-19T18:01:00.000-08:00

I officially have joined the Starbucks infantry as of this week. I'm honored to join their on-going conquest to rule the world.

"I'll lead the way when I know."

2008-11-12T15:36:00.000-08:00

Beirut's music has really inspired me lately. Their creativity blows me away.

check out LA BLOGOTHEQUE

King Abdullah, start walkin' what you talk.

2008-11-06T16:15:00.000-08:00

This past summer while I was in Jordan some of my friends talked to my team and I about the issue of migrant workers rights in the country. They talked about how migrant workers would be hired abroad by families, they would come to Jordan, work for a handful of years, sending the money home to support their families and then when the time was up they would move back home. The problem though is that a lot of migrant workers will be forced to work longer then what they signed on for and sometimes not paid at all. Many times their has been reported sexual and physical abuse. Our friends told us that this was a big problem and Jordan and that a lot of the trouble had to do with the fact that the government doesn't do a lot to stop the problem. The BBC recently reported that the country's only human rights group had recently spoken out against the governments handling of the situation. Check out the article. Pray that the government would fight the injustice that they have allowed to exist for way too long. Also pray that those in bondage to be set free, pray that Jordanians would see the need to speak out for their neighbors who may not have a voice.

I heard there was a sacred chord...

2008-10-28T11:20:00.000-07:00

I've always loved hearing about archeologist's discovering places and things from thousands of years ago. I've always felt like it brings history back to life, and brings the reality in front of our face that these things actually happened. Recently Newsweek reported that archeologist's had found evidence that King Solomon and King David were running mines in what is now Jordan and what used to be part of the Edomite Kingdom. Check out the article HERE

Me chillin' in the ancient Edomite Kingdom.

Our family is in need.

2008-10-26T18:09:00.000-07:00

Continue to pray for Christians and others being persecuted in Orissa...

1. That the Christians would stay steadfast in their faith, even sometimes in the face of death
2. For the salvation of those who are committing these acts of injustice
3. That, if it be His will, that He might show mercy to our brothers and sisters
4. That whatever the circumstance, His power, His might, and the ultimate glory of His name would be made known to all those in Orissa, India, and beyond.

"Solid with a capital S"

2008-10-26T17:12:00.000-07:00

Before Sunday's game against Liverpool,Chelsea had won 86 games in a row at home. Liverpool than promptly arrived at Stamford Bridge, dominated the game offensively and defensively, and walked away with a 1-0 win. Oh, and we're 1st in the Premier League by the way...

(BBC SPORT)

It's official...

2008-10-25T11:40:00.000-07:00

(ign)

as of today I am a Portland Trailblazers fan. R.I.P Supersonics.

A new begining...

2008-10-23T00:17:00.000-07:00

Many of you have heard about the heart wrenching reality that the Seattle Supersonics have gone extinct. So as the eve of another NBA season falls upon us I, for the first time in my life, have no team to root for. So I'm in search for a new team and call upon you, Bloggernation, to help me make my choice. I've thought about Portland, because, lets face it, they're 4 hrs away from my home city, and I've had some Laker fans suggest their team...but I'm still up in the air. Help me out here. Suggestions???

2008-10-19T15:04:00.000-07:00

Speaking of injustice and people that need tremendous prayer...

Darfur: When "Not on our watch" demands more than a catchy dramatic phrase

2008-10-14T20:20:00.001-07:00

In the Darfur region of Sudan Christians, Muslims, mothers, fathers, sons and daughters are being slaughtered by their own government. Though the Darfur crisis has been around for sometime now, the situation continues to worsen. Though the Western world has criticized and condemned Sudan for their actions and the ICC (International Criminal Court) has called for the arrest of Sudan's president, the Sudanese government continues its genocide. So as you browse through the images below of those caught in the midst of injustice ask this question: "What can be done to stop this? If the superpowers of this world can't solve the problem... then what? Do we throw up our hands?

It was difficult to come here because they burned our village,” recalled Ismail Ahmat Ishach, a father of six.

“We had to flee immediately, our families were scattered and we had nothing to bring but what we wore that night,” he said, referring to the Janjaweed.

“It took us over three days to get here and we had donkeys,” said Mr Ishach, who added that he and his family were lucky to have make it here alive.

Tens of thousands of refugees from Darfur and the Central African Republic languish in refugee camps in Chad, making it one of the 10 countries hosting the most refugees.

Many thousands of local people have also been forced from their homes.

Koukou is just 35 miles from the poorly defined border with Darfur.

It barely existed until an attack by Janjaweed militias on border villages in April 2007.

Khakeidja Hamat arrived with her two children a few weeks ago. She said she is "happy to be out of danger, even though we’ve left everything and don’t have much here."

Mrs Hamat and the other displaced people in Koukou are from the Massalit communtiy, one of the main groups targeted by the Janjaweed both in Darfur and Chad.

They account for nearly half the Sudanese refugee population now in Chad.

Now ask....What can I do about this? Can I do anything about this?

Photo's and photo commentary by BBC.

Sweet Reykjavik!

2008-10-07T18:54:00.000-07:00

All joking aside...

Like a lot of you out there, I'm having a hard time following all of what's happening with the current economic crisis ,both in the U.S. and abroad. I just stumbled across this article today and I feel it deserves our attention.

Learn how the bankruptcy of Iceland could lead to a massive implosion within the European market and beyond...

2008-10-04T13:34:00.000-07:00

A poem by Sufi poet Rumi.

Oh! Supreme Lover!
Let me leave aside my worries.
The flowers are blooming
with the exultation of your Spirit.

By Allah!
I long to escape the prison of my ego
and lose myself
in the mountains and the desert.

These sad and lonely people tire me.
I long to revel in the drunken frenzy of your love
and feel the strength of Rustam in my hands.

I'm sick of mortal kings.
I long to see your light.
With lamps in hand
the sheikhs and mullahs roam
the dark alleys of these towns
not finding what they seek.

You are the Essence of the Essence,
The intoxication of Love.
I long to sing your praises
but stand mute
with the agony of wishing in my heart.

Good Music & Goats

2008-10-03T14:46:00.000-07:00

Check out Fleet Foxes and their singing goat.

2008-10-02T23:34:00.000-07:00

Yup, it's that time again. I'm bloggin' live couchside watching the Major League Baseball playoffs on TBS.

OK, starting off, I still can't completely jump on this Tampa Bay bandwagon yet. I know, I know, they just won Game 1 against the White Sox, but every part me still wants to shrug and say: "Come on, its the the Rays!" Oh yeah, maybe its the fact that they've had a million losing seasons in a row.

Well, Brett Myers looks really really legit. Wait, maybe it was the month of August that I didn't really pay attention to baseball due to being so wrapped up in the Summer Olympics, but, when did Brett Myers get really really good? Forget it, nevermind...I wish John Madden did play by play for all sports, and speaking of which, what happened to Joe Buck? Isn't Joe Buck half of the experience when it comes to post-season baseball? I just really pay attention to these things, I'm sorry. Alright, I've got my pick on this one... Phillies in three. Ummm, I hate to rain on Tampa's parade but I wanna say White Sox in 4. Hmmmm I was just told by a Napa commercial that I can gain peace of mind by taking my car to Napa. Man, that's where you get it...Napa...hmmmm

I've always thought that both the Phillies and the Brewers had some of the sweeetest looking hats in baseball.

Its always depressing to see massive amounts of former Mariners playing in the playoffs...Just to throw me in deeper depression can we take a look at what the Mariners could have looked like if they didn't trade away like everyone...Ok here we go.The past decade we would have had a lineup consisted of names like Ken Griffey Jr, Mike Cameron, Ichiro(soon to be traded), A-ROD, Jason Varitek(farm system), Tino Martinez, Jamie Moyer, Randy Johnson, Derek Lowe... I mean, just to name a few. Alright...enough moping.

Onto the Cubs. I feel terrible for Cubs fans that I already have a horrible feeling about their chances in the first round. I love the old fashion feel to the series but...lets just cut to the chase. Dodgers in 4.

Livin' Proof

2008-10-01T23:59:00.000-07:00

What is true religion?

James 1:26-27:

"19 Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger; 20 for the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God. 21 Therefore put away all filthiness and rampant wickedness and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls.

22 But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. 23 For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man who looks intently at his natural face in a mirror. 24 For he looks at himself and goes away and at once forgets what he was like. 25 But the one who looks into the perfect law, the law of liberty, and perseveres, being no hearer who forgets but a doer who acts, he will be blessed in his doing.

26 If anyone thinks he is religious and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his heart, this person's religion is worthless. 27 Religion that is pure and undefiled before God, the Father, is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction, and to keep oneself unstained from the world.

Gaze, contemplate, gaze some more...

2008-09-26T16:54:00.000-07:00

The first time I saw this I thought something like: "Momtaz!"(arabic for excellent or intelligent)

(ffffound.com)

I want to go snorkeling here!

(ffffound.com)

is so coo, so coo

(ffffound.com)

Talk about nose bleeds...

(ffffound.com)

(ffffound.com)

(ffffound.com)

"Somalia, Angola, Ghana, Ghana, Ghana...India, Sri Lanka, Burma, Bamboo Banga."

2008-09-25T00:36:00.000-07:00

Running out of things/people to pray for?? If so, pray for these countries:

Somalia,India, Sri Lanka, Burma, Pakistan

2008-09-22T22:46:00.001-07:00

I can't wait for it to get cold.

data.tumblr.com/kSw6v5Uor3fav3yetWdHnRUh_500.jpg

I feel most alive when...

2008-09-20T14:55:00.000-07:00

I'm listening to Sigur Ros

I'm down to $1 in my bank account

(http://www.flickr.com/photos/25741037@N04/2419354397/)

I met my brother Simon Peter...

...and my sister Haruka

I get done praying

("The Lord's prayer" in Arabic)

I'm playing music

(J.Phillips)

I've just finished a long run

(http://www.flickr.com/photos/fstorr/2201663133/)

I do something that absolutely terrifies me

(BBC)

2008-09-18T23:06:00.000-07:00

Matthew 4:18-22:
"18 While walking by the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon (who is called Peter) and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea, for they were fishermen. 19 And he said to them, “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.” 20 Immediately they left their nets and followed him. 21 And going on from there he saw two other brothers, James the son of Zebedee and John his brother, in the boat with Zebedee their father, mending their nets, and he called them. 22 Immediately they left the boat and their father and followed him."

An old BBC picture of fishing folk somewhere in the U.K.

2008-09-17T22:04:00.001-07:00

Speaking of great family...

Nice Dream?

2008-09-17T22:04:00.000-07:00

"They love me like I was a brother
They protect me, listen to me."

Thom Yorke then proceeds to the chorus referring to his hope for the things above as a "Nice Dream". Thankfully I can say that Mr. Yorke's "dream" is a reality for me and my brothers and sisters in Christ. Whether it’s Delhi, Seattle, Kigali or Riverside, whatever city I've been in or lived in, the love and generosity that’s been shown through my extended family in Christ has been a love and generosity so fulfilling, unparallel to any I have experienced before.

2008-09-15T19:20:00.001-07:00

"There is always somewhere else to look to make the violence and the despair secondary again, but, without the occasionally agonizing glimpses into the stories surrounding you, the diversions can snowball into a life full of passionless hobby."
-Cord Jefferson

Liverpool-2 Manchester United-1

2008-09-13T22:42:00.000-07:00

(BBC)

I just wanted to make sure all you MAN-U fans caught that score...

I wanna know...have you ever seen the rain?

2008-09-13T22:26:00.000-07:00

(BBC)

Monsoon rain falls in my home away from home (aka India). I saw this picture today and realized how much I miss a good rain every now and then. I also realized how much I miss India.

2008-09-10T22:38:00.000-07:00

"There's 24 hours in a day
I used to split it 8, 8, 8
8 work, 8 sleep, 8 for play
Now I give it all it takes"

What if we loved our friends, family, our God as much as we loved the temporary things of this world?

What if our excitement and passion for the pursuit of wisdom, deeper relationships, and working for justice matched the enthusiasm we use when talking about our favorite sports teams, bands, and TV shows?

Well, what if?

Best walk down the stairs...ever

2008-09-09T18:42:00.000-07:00

The band's name is "Beirut".

2008-09-08T22:37:00.000-07:00

I love the emotion that is attached to music.

(BBC)

Little kids in oversized clothes make me laugh.

www.knotan.com/pics/kasinofamily/IMG_4692.jpg

Asia fascinates me.

http://ffffound.com/?offset=0&

I like this picture of Sarkozy talking to Russia's president...

(BBC)

and I think this picture is powerful in so many ways.

(BBC)

Ramadan Prayer Time

2008-09-04T20:25:00.000-07:00

Just look at this picture for awhile.

(thanks again to the BBC)

2008-09-02T19:48:00.000-07:00

Its the Republican National Convention, and I'm blogging live... couchside.

Right now we have Democratic Sen. Joe Lieberman calling for national unity. You see, though Lieberman is a democrat, he believes McCain is the man for the job and says that picking the next president shouldn't depend on what side you're on, rather it should depend on who the right leader is. This frankly sounds very nice, but you have to ask the same question you ask yourself every time we see these big political events...is this all a show? With all the musical performances, motivational movies, and pep speeches, it sure seems like it.

Ok, Am I the only one that thinks that CNN's massive analysis on every aspect of this convention is extremely un-needed? I say just let the show roll, and maybe let Anderson Cooper and Wolf talk because they seem to be the only non-bias people on the set.

To be honest, I think that these correspondents have a huge impact on how our nation see's the different politicians. After a speech supporting McCain as president, you immediately have some left analysis saying she doesn't think McCain should be president. Well obviously! We already know you are democrat and that you will most likely be supporting Obama, be a little more creative with the feedback please! I have no problem with critique of both parties but at least wait for the political talk shows to start before you tell us something that we already know. What ticks me off is the fact that these people are presented as experts but they're only experts of one side of politics. I use the democrat correspondent as an example but I believe other more conservative networks have the same problem. I feel the race for 2008 is going to be waaaay more won via political talk shows and breakdowns of political events than the actual events themselves. I will say this though; if Anderson Cooper runs for president...I'll probably vote for him. I say that without much laughter.

Ummmm…so tell me why Ron Paul is having a convention? I love the guy, I really do, he cracks me up, but I just…I…ahhhhhhhhhh

Ok, tell me if you think this would be a picture perfect ending to the RNC.

After the last speech of the night the lights go out, the smoke machines start up, and Lynard Skynard closes the night with "Free Bird". I can't think of anything else that would better sum up the event of patriotic, good ole' American boys who stand for freedom, then the unofficial band of rednecks everywhere. Man I can see it now...McCain and Palin singing along, Bush Sr. covering his ears...Man, that would pretty much seal the deal...although Obama did have two of the members of Death Cab play at his convention. WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOAAA NELLIE! It's gonna be close.

Alright, that's enough politics, what's on ESPN?

2008-09-01T22:50:00.000-07:00

Picture from BBC

A handful of rice. The crop's global price has risen by almost 70% this year, and the price of food worldwide continues to skyrocket, meaning millions upon millions of people will go to bed hungry and already extremely poor farmers will struggle to provide for their families.

Pray for these people AND be thankful that you are extremely blessed that these statistics don't affect you. Then again, maybe they should...

...It's gonna be a glorious day

2008-08-28T23:36:00.000-07:00

I saw Radiohead last night. It was awesome. You can get a feel for what I experienced here. Radiohead is webcasting their next few concerts live.

2008-08-23T16:07:00.000-07:00

David Neville, my new hero, diving across the finish line to secure himself a bronze medal at the conclusion of the men's 400 meter final. If you have ever run track or at least realize how hard and rough a track is, you realize how hard core David really is.

(photo by yahoo news)

2008-08-18T00:42:00.000-07:00

There are times when I really feel I left pieces of my heart in India.

(photo from the BBC showing Indian youths celebrating India's independence day in New Delhi.)

2008-08-15T18:36:00.001-07:00

The day is Friday the 15th and I am currently reporting to you all from Riverside's own, Back to the Grind, enjoying a Manchurian Mango ice tea. As I plug my head phones into my beautiful black HP Pavilion dv6000 and turn on one of my favorite new songs "LES Artistes" I get the idea to share with you all my observations on the Olympics, some world news, and possibly some other stuff.

First off, one of my favorite things about the Olympics is that it makes people super excited about sports they would never be excited about watching any other year. I mean if I saw gymnastics on TV 4 months ago, I probably would change the channel, but currently, I'm all about gymnastics. I'm absolutely captivated by Horton, Shawn-John, the Chinese girls and guys teams...I don't know what it is but I would probably cancel a load of plans, just to watch these neo-athletes jump and twirl and flip their way around the gym. Amazing.

I'm also falling in love with badminton, this fascination I can't really explain...just watch it.

On to world news… For the love of Andrei Kirilenko, what in the world is Russia doing? We are talking about a country that just spent the past couple decades trying to build the image that they were a nation that was a friend to democracy not a country that has to be worried about as a possible international threat, and then they decide to raid Georgia with missiles and tanks and who knows what else. We all know Russia has never had a "true" democracy, and that its citizens didn't have a whole lot of freedoms, but democracy or not I don't understand how Putin and Co. thought that this was a smart move. They just probably lost their country a whole lot of international investors, allies, and any room to talk about gaining both of those things back. I thought the Portland Trailblazers 1984 draft day selection of Sam Bowie over Michael Jordan was the unanimous bonehead move of all time until I heard about this on the BBC the other day. Goooodness!

Oh yeah, all my friends in Jordan. Lets get that medal count up. I will say though that I was impressed with the fact that you have a 15 year old swimmer competing. Japan, I'm rootin' for you guys. India, congrats on the gold medal! Rwanda, I believe in you guys.Maybe w'll get one in track and field?

Well I think that’s it my friends. This is Aaron M. Williams signing out. Watch out Bob Costas!

Out of Control

2008-08-09T12:31:00.000-07:00

If you saw the Olympic Opening Ceremonies last night,you understand the above statement.

Icelandic musicians rule!

2008-08-07T01:39:00.000-07:00

Sigur Ros live at the Museum of Modern Art in New York. Prepare to get your mind blown!

Bucking Hay

2008-08-06T22:38:00.000-07:00

One of the many things I miss about summer in Washington is bucking hay with my family. There was once a time in my life when bucking hay was what you did once August came around. It was during those hot summer nights that I learned how to drive in our blue farm truck. One of the best parts of the job was though the night's where blistering hot and your whole body itched from head to toe, you knew that once you were done you got to take a dip in the glorious Pilchuck River, which was ever so refreshing. Though the work was hard work, my family and I have good memories of those nights. Here is a picture my dad sent me today of He and my brother Mark carrying on the summer tradition without me.

Celebrate Beauty.

2008-08-03T16:00:00.000-07:00

Today in church we talked about celebrating the beauty of all that God has created.

Here are some things I find beautiful in His work.

Mountain lakes.

Relationship.

Music.

Humor.

Iraqi athletes allowed to play

2008-07-29T14:28:00.000-07:00

An update on my post last week. The Olympic commitee has reversed its ban on the Iraqi national team and has allowed all the athletes to participate. This is very encouraging to hear and if you have followed the story closely you know that this was the right call.

Good luck Iraq!

Hate or Compassion?

2008-07-27T16:05:00.000-07:00

This is Jose Gonzalez. This is a great song that will make you think.

I thought the Olympics games weren't political

2008-07-24T10:00:00.000-07:00

The BBC recently reported that Iraqi athletes will not be allowed to compete in the Beijing Olympic Games. Check this out:

"Athletes from Iraq have been banned from taking part at this summer's Beijing Games, the International Olympic Committee has announced.
The team was already the subject of an interim ban after the Iraqi government replaced the country's Olympic committee with its own appointees.

Under the IOC charter, all committees must be free of political influence.

As a result the team of two rowers, two sprinters, one archer, one weightlifter and one judo competitor cannot attend.

"The deadline for taking up places for Beijing for all sports except athletics has now passed," said IOC spokeswoman Giselle Davies.

"The IOC very sadly has now to acknowledge that it is likely there will be no Iraqi presence at the Beijing Olympic Games, despite our best efforts."

She added: "Clearly, we'd very much like to have seen Iraq's athletes in Beijing.
"We are very disappointed that the athletes have been so ill-served by their own government's actions."

Hussein al-Amidi, the general secretary of the Iraqi Olympic Committee, said: "This morning we were informed of the final decision of the International Olympic Committee to suspend the membership of the Iraqi Olympic Committee.

"It's a final decision, there is no way to appeal. This means that Iraq will not take part in the coming Olympic games.

"It is a blow to Iraq and its international reputation, its athletes and its youth.
"I swear those athletes who have been training - they phoned me today and they were crying and were very upset."

BBC Radio 5 Live sports news correspondent Gordon Farquhar added: "The four Iraqi athletes that qualified could have competed under the Olympic flag but the deadline for confirmation of places has passed."

The committee which the government dismissed was elected in 2004, in line with the Olympic movement's regulations.

Its chairman, Ahmad al-Samarra'i, and several other members were abducted by gunmen while attending a meeting in central Baghdad in July 2006.
They have not been seen since.

The Iraqi government said it took the move because the committee was corrupt and had not been functioning properly."

This does not seem right to me at all. The fact that the committee made the decision this late in the game is ridiculous, and now they have no chance to compete...whether for Iraq or individually. The funny thing is during this whole year leading up to this year’s Olympics, head members of the Olympic committee have been preaching how this event is not a political one. (This was due to the international scrutiny over China's human rights violations). So if this is not political, I guess I'm still having a hard time figuring out why the Iraqi athletes will not be allowed to compete.

U.N makes steps toward justice in Sudan, but much more work looms ahead.

2008-07-14T22:34:00.000-07:00

For all those who have followed the constant inactivity of the United Nations in relation to genocidal acts committed by hateful régimes such as genocide perpetrators in Rwanda, Bosnia, Congo, Sierra Leon, Ethiopia, Sudan and Burma, this week’s news of action being taken against Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir should come as welcome news.

The International Criminal Court, which was which is indirectly related to the UN, called the decision one that basically has to be done, and leading prosecutor Luis Moreno-Ocampo said that:

"I am a prosecutor doing a judicial case," he said. "In the camps, al-Bashir's forces kill the men and rape the women. He wants to end the history of the Fur, Masalit and Zaghawa people. I don't have the luxury to look away. I have evidence."

Comments by Save Darfur President Jerry Fowler sum up the emotions and mixed relief based upon the ICC and UN's Monday decision:

"Prosecutor Moreno-Ocampo's charges against al-Bashir underscore the need for the U.N. Security Council to finally act decisively with a comprehensive strategy for Sudan," said Jerry Fowler, president of the Save Darfur Coalition." (From Associated Press)

For me personally there is definitely an emotion of relief due to the fact that Darfur has been a constant subject in mine as well as many others' prayers in the past few years. The reality of this decision is that there is a long way to go till absolute justice is brought to those suffering in Darfur and various other areas in Sudan. There will probably be a lot more death's to come, probably due to the ruling parties retaliation to the ICC's charges. Aide will be cut off due to the statement made in Khartoum by official’s stating that they "cannot guarantee the safety of UN workers".

Continue to pray for justice to be brought to these people.

In 2004, a top United Nations official in Khartoum, Mukesh Kapilla, courageously compared the butchery in Darfur to the organized slaughter of 800,000 Rwandans 10 years earlier. He said: "I was present in Rwanda at the time of the genocide, and I've seen many other situations around the world, and I am totally shocked at what is going on in Darfur," he told a BBC radio program. "This is ethnic cleansing; this is the world’s greatest humanitarian crisis, and I don't know why the world isn't doing more about it." (Excerpt taken from "Not On Our Watch: The mission to end genocide in Darfur and beyond.")

So many times when these types of things have happened the world has looked away. This time pray that we wouldn't shield our eyes. Pray that we would not just talk about justice but actually stand for it.

Movement of ja' people

2008-07-10T23:35:00.000-07:00

One the early highlights’ of my week so far has been my completion of the book of Genesis. Around a year ago I made it my goal to start reading through the Bible starting from the beginning; it was an idea that was inspired by my time and India as well as my host to India, Dr. Thom Wolfe. I had started and before long I had gotten off track and I decided to leave the project off till later. Though I feel relieved that I've completed the first leg of my journey, more importantly I've loved what I have learned so far.

Though we often recall the stories of old through what we've been told in Sunday school or in classes its awesome to begin to see history unfold from the beginning, when God spoke the heavens and the earth into place progressing into Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Its incredible already in my reading observing the love and faithfulness God has for his people.

One of the things that got my attention just the other day was this comment made by Joseph to his fearful brothers (who had betrayed and treated him cruel in his youth by selling him to traders traveling to Egypt). In Genesis 50:19-20:

"But Joseph said to them,” Do not fear, for am I in the place of God? As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good, to bring it about that many people should be kept alive, as they are today."

This verse really struck me. How God was able to take the evil deeds of man and turn it into something glorious. Its not that this was new to me by any means, but rather I began to think about our world today and how we might see such events after evil has been done. I was convicted on how broad my prayers can become. I started to think of how my prayers could be more strategic in praying for certain area's of the world that experience evil day in and day out for years after looking at the verse. And I still am thinking at this moment. I think of how this verse might help us in rejoicing in our sufferings, as I've been learning about and discussing at church, I don't know. For some reason this verse just jumped out there at me and questions started racing round my head. Tell me what you think...

Moving onto the first part of Exodus, kind of revolving around the same theme, I cam across another verse. Exodus 2:23-25:

"During those many days the king of Egypt died, and the people od Israel groaned because of their slavery and cried out for help. Their cry for rescue from slavery came up to God. And God heard their groaning, and God remembered his covenant with Abraham, with Isaac, and with Jacob. God saw the people of Israel-and God knew."

I started thinking about the massive issues of our time socially. We have genocide in Sudan and Burma and probably in Congo. You have things like the caste-system and other class systems that oppress. We have yet even more slavery thousands of years later all over the world; some say more than double the amount of slaves during the Trans-Atlantic slave era. While thinking this verse gives me hope and kicks me in the butt to continue and pray, but more so, pray with full confidence that God knows and that God see's this. Again this isn't something that I didn't know already or that we don't know already. We look at this verse and we look at the story that follows it (God leads his people out of slavery into their own land). We see that God is just and brings to justice those caught in injustice. Not only should this motivate and move us to do the same (seeking justice for those live in injustice) but we should have the confidence when we pray that justice will be brought and for those of us whoever get the chance to work with people caught in injustice or do the injustice, this we can offer the people a hope that though we may not be able to physically change their situation, we can offer them the chance to know a God who hears and knows and saves.

I hope my thoughts are somewhat making sense.

Even though I spoke about these verses within a perspective relating to our world the verses also gives us so much hope within a personal perspective as well. I'm still thinking a lot still over these verses. They both were motivating and inspiring to me, maybe to you too. Again, let me know that you think on all this rambling...Oh, and if you can tell me where I got the title of the post from I'll give you a high 5.

Hang down your head and cry.

2008-07-06T14:06:00.001-07:00

Well its not over yet but I'm preparing for the worst. My beloved Seattle Supersonics, the first team I ever remember following as a kid, could soon be on their way to the Sooner state, Oklahoma.

The whole thing is quite tragic really. If you haven't been following the events that lead up to this, here's out it basically played out. Two wealthy investors from Oklahoma City bought the Seattle Supersonics from former owner and CEO of Starbucks, Howard Schultz. In doing so they signed a contract promising to make every effort they could make toward keeping the team in Seattle. Not too long after, in which being fair to Clay Bennett (one of the current majority owners) they a couple times to pitch ideas of keeping the team in Seattle, which consisted of a multi-zillion dollar new stadium fully funded by tax payers who just spent zillions only a decade prior to rennovate the teams current arena, Key Arena. After the city declined such an idea, Clay and Co. announced they were taking the team to their hometown, OKC. Soon after reports surfaced that even before they bought the Sonics Clay and Co.'s intentions all along were to take the team to OKC once it was purchased.

In the end you have a team that has had incrediable fan support for 41 years leaving the city that loves it without any word or action taken by the NBA's commissioner only because the city had refused to let the NBA have full profit of all concessions and proposed high end seating the past few years. To commissioner David Stern and Clay Bennet 41 years is nothing, because in the end they wouldn't be able to make loads of money on top of the zillions of dollars they all ready have made.

Ok, I realize professional sports is way more a money making machine than just sporting leagues, but something's wrong with this picture. You have ravid fan support for around 41 years, you are the only city team to ever win a league championship, and in the end it all doesn't matter. Shame on you Daivd Stern.

I leave you with some shots from the past...

Parade in downtown Seattle after the Sonics won the 1979 NBA Championship

Shawn Kemp dunking over Dennis Rodman in the '96 Finals.

The Glove and Air Jordan jawin' at the '96 Finals.

Another classic Kemp shot. I love the shot of Jordan gazing up at "The Reignman".

Harry Potter, Euro 2008, Persepolis, and my friends from the Islamic Center

2008-06-28T17:47:00.000-07:00

It’s been a little while since my last post so I decided to give a commentary on my last few weeks.

First of all I re-fell in love with the Harry Potter movies as my good roommates (for the last two weeks) Anthony, John, Brendon, and I held a Harry Potter marathon at the Mooney household, where we have been sleeping the past two weeks. There's just something about those movies. They keep you on the edge of your seat and by the end of the movie you feel so happy. Harry's goofy little smile cracks me up every time. Honestly, if you haven't noticed it, the kid has the goofiest smile within the Western Hemisphere.

Onward to Euro 2008. My most recent entry covered the remarkable story of the Turkish national team and their journey to the semi-finals of the Euro Cup. I have been a fan of international soccer for the past few years now and I have never seen anything like it. If you haven't already heard, their Cinderella run through the tournament was ended by a 3-2 loss to Germany. What you have to keep in mind though is that 9 Turkish players couldn't play due to suspensions, yellow cards, and injuries yet still almost pulled off another win. Incredible. My pick for Champion is Spain with a final score of 2-1.

Back to movies...I recently saw two great movies this week. First was "Everything's Illuminated", starring Elijah Wood. The film is a story of a young man from America traveling to Ukraine to learn about his family’s descendents. The movie is both hilarious and moving at the same time. Check it out, like the next time you rent a movie...do it. The next movies was a new French film called "Persepolis" that tells the story of an Iranian girl during the revolution years there. The whole story is in animation. It’s an extremely visually pleasing movie that gives the viewer a unique perspective into Iranian life and history as well as the struggle to keep in touch with your roots and history as the society continues to change and progress. After you watch "Everything’s Illuminated", rent "Persepolis"...like immediately after. Ah...ah...just get it done.

While visiting with friends at the Islamic Center of Riverside this past Friday night I finally got a lead on a Middle Eastern restaurant in Riverside that serves food the way they do in the Middle East, or so I was told by a Middle Easterner. The place is called "Mr. Kebab's" and supposedly its the real deal. So for all of those who have been searching for such as place, as I have been, there you go.

Unbelievable!

2008-06-20T14:20:00.000-07:00

If any of you saw the Turkey/Croatia Euro Cup quaterfinal game today I don't really have to say anything more than the title of this post, if you hadn't here's what happened. 0-0 Extra time literally maybe a minute left until the game goes to penalty kicks. Turkey's goalie makes a huge mistake and Croatia scores on a header. All of Croatia rejoices and the announcers are calling the game over, literally seconds later Turkey scores.Turk's go crazy. I go crazy.Croatians all over the world are pulling their hair. On to penalty kicks. Turkey wins in penalty kicks! If you haven't jumped on the Turkey bandwagon already, you might as well. Their journey through this tournament had been incrediable. Earlier in the tournament they were down 2-0 to the Czceh Republic and scored 3 goals in the final 15 minutes of play to win.They had 3 games,3 comeback wins. These guys are in a league of their own when it comes to clutch.

Album Review on Coldplay's new album "Viva La Vida or Death and All His Friends"

2008-06-17T22:20:00.000-07:00

Here is my album review, track by track, of the new Coldplay album.

Track 1- Life in Technicolor- I know this first track is just instrumental, but this track got me pumped when I first heard it last night. I felt like it was setting the atmosphere, in a way, for the rest of the CD. If you have ever been to a concert you probably understand what I'm talking about. Usually before a band takes the stage they might have music or a beat of some sort that you can hear faintly in the background the band takes the stage and joins in with the music as it grows louder and louder until the band exsplosively or gracefully plunges into the first verse of the song. Long explanation I know, but I feel it was neccessary.

Track 2- Cemetaries of London- Already you can tell that Coldplay is using a type of different sound when this song begins. Love the "la la la la la yey" part and the clap noise in the background. Interesting lyrics, CD sounds good so far.

Track 3- Lost!-Wow, this is a different sound. Is that a hip hop beat I hear? That it is. The start of this song doesn't sound like a Coldplay song at all. Love the lyrics on this one though. I call a Jay-Z remix in the near future.

Track 4- 42- This whole song seems very experimental, which I feel is something you wouldn't have heard or seen in the previous albums. This song starts out slow and soft than half way through the whole tempo and sound of the song changes and sounds like something you would hear from Radiohead and than changes into something you might hear from Tegan and Sara, yeah that Tegan and Sara...this is definitly a Brian Eno produced album.

Track 5- Lovers in Japan- The intro just plain makes me happy. Has a U2 type sound but also a very unique sound to it as well. Like alot of songs on this cd the song has a piano, but it doesnt sound like your normal Coldplay piano. The song stops half way in and switches tempo and sound. The piano on this part is just so peaceful.

Track 6- Yes- I love the sound effects they have in the back ground.Chris's voice is sooo low. I mean this really doesn't sound like a Coldplay song. I love the Asian sounding strings in this one mixed with a southern rock sound. Once again this song stops half way through, changes sound and tempo...and your left with a great exit out of this song that sounds more like Yo La Tango then Coldplay, as my good friend John put it.

Track 7-Viva La Vida- If you didn't already know, this song is about Napolean. I love the lyrics as they are presented from what would be Napolean's perspective, looking back on his life. This song is awesome, end of story.

Track 8- Violet Hill- This song also seems to have some political, historical significance. Very rocky sounding.

Track 9- Strawberry Swing- This song has a very folkie sound to it. This might be an early canidate for my favorite song on the album. This is another one of those "make you wanna dance" songs.

Track 10- Death and All His Friends- This one reminds me of the Arcade Fire a little. Southern Rock sound to it once it gets goin, then regresses into atmospheric sounding stuff. Song ends with the same intro music we heard at the begining of the album, but this time we have vocals. Love the ending of this song, makes me want to listen to the album again, go to sleep, or go do something bold.

Track 11- Lost?- This is another version of track 6. Just as good if not better.

Overall Impression: I actually didn't really know what to expect from this album. We have all heard the "this is going to be Colplay's rockier cd" before as we did before with "X&Y" and before this album. After hearing the early releases I had hope that this was really going to be a different Coldplay. After listening through the album for the first time I actually was blown away how seriously the band took the idea of experimenting with new sounds and I though in doing so they walked away with an extremely good album. You hear some of the influences the band has been talking about have influenceing their new album the past year or so such as the Arcade Fire in this new album. I think this album will change the way people look at Coldplay and will strengthen the bands chances of being a "world renown band" for years to come. I warn you, this is not the Coldplay you are accustomed to, but give it a try and I believe at least over time you come to really enjoy this album.

...Napoleon in rags and the language that he used.

2008-06-16T13:10:00.000-07:00

The new Coldplay album comes out at 12:01am Tuesday!
If Violet Hill and Viva la Vida are any indication of whats to come, the emotions of anticipation and excitement in which I wait for the album will be truly warrented ones.

Album review later this week.

Get in the Hole!

2008-06-15T23:52:00.000-07:00

I have a confession to make. The past two days Brendan, John, and I have watched multiple hours of the PGA's US Open. Honestly, none of us were avid watchers of golf before this weekend but we were drawn in to the action(if you can call it that) in a hurry. On Saturday Tiger Woods was doing terrible, than he hits shots from the sidewalk, the side of a hill, and like a 60 ft putt to take the lead at the end of the day. On Sunday he starts off terrible again and than hits a shot from the ruff and another long put to face a playoff on Monday, it was crazy. But probably the most entertaining part of this whole thing was how whenever Tiger Woods hits these shots the crowd in the background goes straight stupid! Folks jumping up and down with their hands in the air in utter jubilation, even though they've seen Tiger do this stuff like a zillion time its still the same reaction. Even more entertaining though is that consistantly after every putt he takes, right as the ball moves away from his putter, there is always the guy that yells "Get in the hole!" , the phrase delivered in such a way that one may suspect the man's very life balances on whether or not the ball falls in the hole. Its absolutely breathtaking, yet halarious at the same time. Frankly, I suggest you all should try watching some golf, I could almost guaruntee that its a stress reliever.

Jordan Trip Part II: "Ah ah ah...."

2008-06-14T00:14:00.000-07:00

The 2nd half of our trip consisted of a whole lot of productive hanging out. We studied Arabic and than hung out at the University of Jordan. Our days would consist of hours of basketball in the U of J gym (the competition was actually very strong), pool at the pool hall,and chillin' with our local store owners ( for the guys) The girls days on the other hand would consist of walking on campus and literally being swarmed by girls wanting to talk about...what girls talk about I guess. We also did alot of work handing food out to Palestinian refugees living in different parts of town. The latter project was one of the most impactful ones. We were invited into homes, met families, and heard some pretty amazing stories. We were also impacted by a trip to an orphanage we took. Here are some more pictures documenting our journey.

This night was alot of fun. Us with our friends Rita and Leen.

The girls and one of their many entourage's

Kelsey giving rides at the orphanage.

With the Angel kids

Guy with grill cheese... Jordanian style

Jordan Trip Part I: "They just don't give those Phd.'s away"

2008-06-02T21:45:00.000-07:00

At the begining of our journey to the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan we did some site seeing, visiting the Baptismal site, the Dead Sea, Mt. Nebo, and Petra. We were also blessed to have our friend Robert E. Wallace traveling with us. An expert in biblical history, Wallace's commentary on the land we traveled through made the experience extra special. It was crazy walking around such places were biblical events took place. Here is the begining installment of my photo journal.

First stop.

Shelby getting baptised in the Jordan River.

Me standing behind the Plains of Moab.

The Team at the Dead Sea. Quick fact, the Dead Sea is over 100 times more salty than the Pacific Ocean,thus reflecting in the bouyancy we humans have when swimming in it. You can literally be in 20ft of water and be standing straight up and not sink. Its incrediable!

The view from Mt. Nebo. This is where Moses was shown the promised land by God in Numbers 27.

Petra. This is the area where the Edomites come from. Also the inspiration of notorious rap song "Shawerma"

More Petra dwellings.

Kelsey and Shelby on camels.

Thank you Mr. Wallace. You will be missed.

THIS WEEK: SPECIAL PHOTO DIARY OF MY TRIP TO JORDAN

2008-05-29T01:04:00.000-07:00

Hold your horses though. We are still waiting on the photo's.

Food: The New Oil Crisis

2008-04-21T16:22:00.000-07:00

This past week I have been doing research on the growing food crisis in Haiti While researching I stumbled across this artilce below written by Anwar Iqbal and found it very interesting ,and probably being more frank, alarming.

Food crisis may lead to wars, riots

By Anwar Iqbal

WASHINGTON, April 13: The world is moving towards a food crisis that may lead to wars and riots, warn financial experts meeting at the World Bank headquarters in Washington.

“People are dying because of their reaction to the situation,” said Jacques Diouf, director-general of the United Nations’ Food and Agriculture Organisation.

The UN agency also warned that this food crisis was not going to end quickly. The World Bank agreed and predicted that prices would remain above 2004 levels through to 2015.

World Bank President Robert Zoellick noted that people living in the developed world struggled with the high cost of fuel to run their cars, while poor people in developing nations struggled to feed themselves.

“In many developing countries, the poor spend up to 75 per cent of their income on food. When prices of basic foods rise, it hits hard,” he said.

The price of wheat had risen 120 per cent over the past year, Mr Zoellick added. Over the past three years, food prices overall have risen 83 per cent, the World Bank estimates.

The crisis of surging food prices could mean “seven lost years” in the fight against worldwide poverty, he said.

IMF managing director Dominique Strauss-Kahn also issued a dire warning about the food crisis and its economic and political impact.

“Food prices, if they go on like they are doing today ... the consequences will be terrible,” he said, adding that if they continued, “hundreds of thousands of people will be starving”.

“As we know, learning from the past, those kind of questions sometimes end in war,” he said.

Leading financial experts from around the world warned that food riots and shortages were breaking out in many regions as food shortages threatened millions of people, sparking protests around the globe.

They pointed out that so far there had been deadly riots in a number of countries.

Last week one person was killed in two days of rioting in Egypt, while violence wracked Haiti, where demonstrations over rising food prices led to looting and clashes with police.

In Haiti, the poorest country in the Western hemisphere, the prime minister was ousted on Saturday night after more than a week of violent protests over rocketing food and fuel prices.

The mounting food crisis has moved to the top of the agenda of this weekend’s spring meetings in Washington of the 185-nation World Bank and its twin institution, the International Monetary Fund.

To meet this crisis, Mr Zoellick called for a “new deal on global Food policy.”

For the “immediate crisis,” he urged governments to fill the $500 million food gap identified by the UN’s World Food Programme.

Under the new deal, the World Bank will nearly double agricultural lending to Sub-Saharan Africa over the next year to $800 million to substantially increase crop productivity.

In addition, the International Finance Corporation – the World Bank Group’s arm for private sector development – will boost its agribusiness investments.

Mr Zoellick also proposed that sovereign wealth funds around the world allocate $30 billion –one per cent of their $3 trillion assets – to investments for African “growth, development, and opportunity”.

He noted that rising food prices are also contributing to malnutrition, one of the “forgotten” Millennium Development Goals.

“This is not just about meals foregone today or about increasing social unrest. This is about lost learning potential for children and adults in the future, stunted intellectual and physical growth. Even more, we estimate that the effect of this food crisis on poverty reduction worldwide is in the order of seven lost years. So we need to address this not just as an immediate emergency but also in the medium term for development.

Snow in April

2008-04-18T23:33:00.000-07:00

Yes you read it right, snow in April. I few weeks ago I got a call from mi padre informing me that it had snowed at our house in Snohomish, WA (hometown of Major League Pitcher Adam Eaton and Hall of Famer Earl Averil) which was a record even for Washington.

So for all you out there that said it was impossible for snow to fall in April. Here's nature laughing in your face

Throwin' Gas on the fire

2008-04-16T22:49:00.000-07:00

I say its bout time to throw a little gasoline in the Campus Days fire.

This time next week 2D will have the POT. Yeah I know there probably a stadium full of you naysayers out there, call me Chad Johnson if you want, but when its all said and done we'll have it. That's really all I have to say at this point...

From behind the lines...

2008-03-18T15:03:00.000-07:00

I'm Aaron M Williams and welcome again to the weekly blog report...(some kind of dramatic intro music) This week I'm reporting for inside The Library on the prestine California Baptist University campus. My location ,for those of you wondering, is nestled between the JK'S and the JN's on the 2nd floor...as of right now the area is calm, very quiet, some locals can be seen every now and then but the effects of Spring Break is extremely evident here. After the massive pilgrimage of CBU undergrad and graduate students journying off to their homes else where, the personality and life of the campus is virtually non-existent, some have even been noted as saying that life here in the normally thriving Baptist haven...is dead.

In other news...

The end of the year is upon us. Seniors...I can't even fathom where we will all be one year from now but I'm excited to find out.

For those of you who came up this past week letting me know that my beloved Sonics will be moving to the OK state... Not so fast! I say to you... A source from Seattle, who just so happens to be my dad, informed me that 3 private investors(the CEO of Microsoft,some big wig from Cosco, and a local real estate investor) have stepped up and our willing to pay all the money needed for the Key Arena's rennovation, and will offer to buy the Sonics back from Clay Bennet anc Co. in the near future. So there's hope...(stay tuned for next week's story on how the NBA has been scheming American cities out of zillions of dollars uncontested.)

#2 donuts is no longer open 24hrs, they now close at midnight...I know Lancer nation, we're all in shock. Now there's a difinitive reason why they're America's #2 donuts

Back to you Anderson...

2008-03-11T10:12:00.000-07:00

Well here I am again maning my usual post in the corner of Wanda's with the authority of one Danny Manning (in his prime mind you, think clippers/hawks years) and I thought it was about time for another blog entry.

In political news... Does anyone but me find Hilary Clinton's new campaign strat. halarious? The fact that she makes the statement "Barack Obama would make a great vice president, under herself" . I must admitt, its a brillant play pn her part. The basic idea is that people will start accepting Clinton as the dominant Democratic presidential canidate and those who are yet to vote in the remaining states vote for Clinton. The idea is also an outreach to Obama supporters, hoping they will concede with thee guarantee of a Vice President nomination. So yeah... great play but still halarious. I would have loved to see the look on Obama's face when he saw that quoted in the newspaper

For all you Liverpool fans out there BIG GAME TODAY 12:30 VS INTER MILAN

If you sports fans still have not read or heard of Bill Simmons check this out

Top 3 must see movies the next time you see a movie:

Once
La Vie En Rose
Darjeeling Limited

And lastly for those of you players of the card came Spades, Mike Marse and I take all challengers...we haven't lost...ever

Liverpool, Food Reviews, and Barack Obama

2008-02-21T10:37:00.000-08:00

Well its approxmately 38min past 10 this Thursday morning and I'm sitting in Wanda's reflecting on the three subjects listed above in the title. For those of you Champions League followers yes, Liverpool opened up Round of 16 play with a stunning 2-0 victory over Inter Milan. Both goals came late in the second half and for this Wanda's blogger helped start the week off on a great note. I encourage all those sports fans out there who have resisted International Soccer and give and and let your world be rocked by the one of the most exciting sports that is relevant to every country, and every culture. I'd like to also point out that ManU only eeked out a 1-1 tie with Lyon. Who's Premier now....

Moving on...

If haven't already noticed, I added a new link to my link list on the left hand side of the page titled "Hole in the Wall". Significance? Now hold your horses, steeds and stalions I'll tell ya. "Hole in the Wall" is a new blog that is dedicated to food reviews of hole in the wall restraunts within and outside the Inland Empire. The first review will be done Sat. Feb 23rd. Reviews will be done by Ethan Johnstone and myself as well as various guest writers as the year goes on so be on the look out.

Lastly, I was looking at my latest copy of "The Economist" which presents the question: "Can Barack Obama deliver if elected President of the United States?" I find this to be a very good question. He sure can enspire and motivate but can he really accomplish what he preaches?(Change)and can he really carry out the duties as President without much experience within executive politics? So what do you thing BloggerNation? Can Obama Deliver?

Final Four Predictions Extremely Early...

2008-02-16T17:15:00.000-08:00

I know, I know its way to early to make Final Four picks...or is it? I feel that at this point in the season I can already make a pretty good guess on who will advance to the Final Four in the upcomming NCAA BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT and I don't need Bracketology to help me out. So without further run on here are the picks:

Memphis- Face it they're legit

Michigan State- Tom Izzo wins in the post season every year and this could be one of his best teams he's had (talent wise) yet
Texas- yeah not even the best team in the Big 12 but just watch
North Carolina- Hansbrough won't be stopped, you've got Lawson plus the rest of McDonald's All-Americans and they are just almost impossible to bet against.

Also look for suprise runs by Gonzaga, Drake, and watch Cal State Northridge stun some big name team in the first round

big news coming out of the 2D camp...

2008-01-13T19:42:00.000-08:00

This past week while participating in a Smith Hall event "Family Feud" 2D made an incrediable come from behind rally late to advance to the championship round, winning a crucial point by answering the question: "How many season's was the the hit TV show Friends on for?" Led by the quick thinking of all-pro Feuder's Robbie Willett and Nolan Gouveia, 2D correctly answered three much needed questions in a row making for an incrediable finish, not to mention a great drama for all bystanders. Though the rally was fierce 2D was finally subdued in the championship round. The hall did not walk away empty handed though, walking away with some prize money to be used on future late night #2's runs, which in this reporters opinion was much more valuable then the dart bord the 1st place group walked away with.

Team Germany brings back Blomgren. Is Stavness/Kidd next?

2007-12-18T00:32:00.000-08:00

Earlier this month Team Germany welcomed back original team member Justin Blomgren, adding to an already star-studded line up. His rocky departure to the Smif Ryda's last season left many teammates and fans heartbroken and many surrounding the Team Germany family thought that they had seen the last of Blomgren in Team Germany threads(see Johnny Damon leaves Red Sox to become Yankee to truly understand...) but after a whole summer of intense negotiations Blomgren was brought back and hearts were mended.

Also there's been swirling rumours at the Team Germany camp recently that Bryce Stavness could sign within the next month as well as a rumour that involves a sign and trade deal that would send Jason Kidd of the New Jersey Nets to Germany for restricted free agent Matt Cobb and a box of # 2's.

Uncertainty

2007-11-03T22:34:00.000-07:00

This year has been full of uncertainty. In the past 3-5 months I have experienced uncertainty in almost all areas of my life. Whether it be my faith, whether it be my future, whether it be trying to figure out the person I've become and grown into these past 4 years at college, there seems to be one constant feeling of uncertainty. The hardest part has probably been the struggle of waiting for uncertainty to turn into certainty, the struggle of waiting upon the Lord to bring clarity to all the aspects of my life that seem so hazy and unclear. I'm pretty sure this isn't all chance, its probably happening for a reason. It's probably going to make me stronger, wiser, more prepared to take on whatever is out there waiting for me in the future. Anyways, this is all kind of weird to blog about because normally my blog entrys are of no real importance or seriousness usually consisting of some run on about how I love the Royals or random pictures, but through numerous conversations I know that alot of my friends and peers are going through alot of the same kind of stuff I listed above and I guess the whole reason for this entry is to state the fact ,to those who join me in this struggle for certainty, that God has a plan, a purpose for all our lives. He has ultimate provision over our lives and he knows what has been, what is, and what will be. Soooo He know's all so if we continue to trust in Him and persue Him with all we have and if we continue to ask like Matthew 7:6-8 says:

"Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. 8For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened"

Then He will provide us with the things that will help sustain us through these rough and uncertain times. I know this proccess is extremely exhausting and frustrating, but we must continue to seek, and strive, hunger for God even in times like these ,and those of us who do so I think will walk away from this experience stronger,wiser, closer to God then ever before.

I hope all this rambling made sense and was of somewhat of a help...

Is "Everything in the Right Place?"

2007-09-02T22:33:00.000-07:00

Those of you who have followed Radiohead over the years know that they have been writing the song "True Love Waits" for years, but they have never finished it. After watching this trailer promoting their new album and film documenting Radiohead's lusterous career it seems as if "True Love Waits" is finally been finished! If you're a Radiohead fan this should get you stoked, if not you probably think this is a waste of blogspace and you probably have a distorted taste of music in my opinion.