What in the world?

This is a popular statement of unbelief.  However, my question is what in the world is going on?  Hmm...I think that Marvin Gaye posed the same question back in the day.  With Hurricane Earl out in the Atlantic somewhere, I was thrown off while watching the news over the weekend and the reporter, who was live in remote from New Orleans said that we are "celebrating the 5th anniversary" of Hurricane Katrina! 

I am sure that the displaced residents of New Orleans' 9th Ward are not celebrating.  That city will never be the same.  Katrina has left an indelible mark on the city, and its inhabitants.  I am happy to see that NOLA is rebuilding, but am having a hard time celebrating Katrina's five year anniversary.  What in the world?

As we are transitioning into Labor Day coming up soon, our nation will be observing September 11 (9/11).  Who would have thought back on a crisp cool morning, that I remember very vividly; that we would be where we are now in 2010.  What in the world?  I feel so badly for our Muslim brothers and sisters, yes -- brothers and sisters.  In the eyes of the Almighty, we are family.  There is so much hatred, and fear of Islam.  The mere discussion of building an Islamic Center has all of NYC all knotted up in a tizzy.  Even during this holy season of Ramadan, the Arabic world is afflicted with so many issues and challenges.  What in the world?

If the truth be told, we're more similar that we are different.  Why can't we just COEXIST?  I leave you today with the words of, The Right Reverend Mark Sisk, Bishop of the Diocese of New York.  ‎"The plan to build the Islamic Center near Ground Zero is, without doubt, an emotionally highly charged issue. But as a nation with tolerance and religious freedom at its very foundation, we must not let our emotions lead us into the error of persecuting or condemning an entire religion for the sins of its most misguided adherents."

Remember to COEXIST with everyone -- Peace,
Karsten

It ain't over...

"It ain't over..." I know many of you could probably finish the latter portion of this sentence with ...till the fat lady sings.  However on my way to church today, I heard a song performed by gospel artist Maurette Brown-Clark on the radio entitled "It ain't over."  Although the song may be a little grammatically harsh on the ears, with the over usage of "ain't," it really blessed me and I want to leave the lyrics with you in hopes that it will bless you too.  These are not my words, but the words of songstress Maurette Brown-Clark, and Anthony Brown.  Have a restful sabbath!

"I know the odds are stacked against you,and it seems there’s no way out.  I know the issue seems unchangeable, and that there’s no reason to shout.  But the impossible is God’s chance to work a miracle, a miracle, so just know...He never said it would be easy, but you’re a winner in the end.  Jesus defeated all your enemies way before the fight began.  But the impossible is God’s chance to work a miracle, a miracle, so just know...It ain’t over until God says it’s over, It ain’t over until God says it’s done, It ain’t over until God says it’s over.  Keep fighting until your victory is won."

Peace,
Karsten

According to the power at work in you

Did you know that there is a power far greater than your human limitations at work on the inside of you?  Sometimes we all get to the point that we just can't go on or make it any further, but miraculously we trudge on to the end of the race.  With the start of school and everything going on around me, I have been going nonstop, or ripping and running, as my Grandma would say.  I have extreme mental fatigue, which to me is worse than hard labor.  It seems that my mind is ever running.  Am I in the right place?  Did I turn in that drop-add form?  Why does my computer keep malfunctioning?  Will I ever get back into my teacher's groove?

The Apostle Paul reminds us in his second letter to the Church at Corinth that: "We have this treasure in earthen vessels, so that the surpassing greatness of the power will be of God and not from ourselves."  The ancient Greek word for power is dunamis, which means the power to perform miracles, but even more specifically, dunamis speaks of moral power and the excellence of the soul.  Wow!!  There is wonder working power at the very core of our being it's time for us to tap into it.

When you feel that your battery has just run out of juice, remember to tap into your dunamis power source.  Always have your charger handy.  There is a great work at stake for you to do, but you have to be fully loaded and charged with moral excellence of spirit and soul in order to walk into your predestined miracles.  Have a safe and happy weekend!

Peace,
Karsten

Hallelujah, anyhow!

Last week a friend of mine told me that he had been laid off from his job.  This is not too uncommon in 2010.  After my friend told me this, my immediate response was "Hallelujah!"  I know that you may think that I am rejoicing in someone else's misery, but let me explain.

My friend has vented on several occasions about his job, staff and colleagues.  It had gotten to a point that in the last few weeks of his job he would literally get sick to the stomach loathing the fact that he would have to go deal with these people.  Believe me, I know what's it's like to have to go to a job that you don't want to, in order to have the basic necessities of life.  Another friend of mine who was laid off in the winter said that it was the best thing that could have happened to her.  She's not working around the office stress and drama.  Then I have to ask myself would I be saying "Hallelujah" if the tables were turned.

The lesson in all this is; when one door closes, there is sure to be an open window, in which we can escape to our true potential.  Stay consistent and keep the faith.  You are on the brink of your breakthrough.  The challenge for today is to think of friends, family members and possibly strangers that are either unemployed or underemployed.  Pray that they continue to be optimistic in this season, and that miraculous opportunities and resources will come to them.

Peace,
Karsten

Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction and faithful in prayer.  Romans 12:12

School's in!

Nothing too profound or enlightening to share today.  Today is the first day of classes for me, as well as other schools within our district, and region.  Our job as a student is to learn and process information, and store it for a later date.  This does take effort in and out of class it doesn't just happen.  After all, the root word of student is study. 

The impact of a teacher never ends.  I just really want to send a shout out to my colleagues who are passionate about the discipline they teach. We all have teachers that we absolutely loved and possibly loathed.  But if you think hard enough, there was a lesson that was taught, even if you didn't get it until adulthood.

Please keep all schools, colleges and universities in your thoughts and prayers and remember those that are in the trenches trying to transform the minds of our future generation.

Peace,
Karsten

Are you existing or living?

How can one exist and not live?  How can one live and not exist?  Obviously, the two go hand-in-hand.  Existence simply means occupying space and having some life like qualities or animation.  Life is when one is at use, active, thriving and vibrant.

The Greek word zoe means, life, but more specifically its meaning implies the absolute fullness of life.  Similarly the name Vivian, which comes from Latin means lively or life giving.  The essential question is: in your life, and daily walk; are you existing or living?  If you fall into the category of the former, get busy living!  Life is good!  Whether the sun is shining or we're drowning in a deluge, life is good!

Make your existence in the world count and live to your authentic zoe potential.  Stop making excuses for why you have not been living up to this point.  I once heard a wise man say that "excuses are high-class lies."  Stop lying to yourself, and LIVE!  Your life begins with you.  If not you, who? If not now, when?  Are you existing or living?

Peace,
Karsten

Word Up!!

I just loved being a teenager in the 80s and 90s.  I can still hear the Cameo song in the back of my mind.  Word Up!  Everybody say...I also recall The Notorious B.I.G.'s reference to Word Up Magazine in one of his songs.  Word Up magazine was a popular magazine in the 80s and 90s, dedicated to teenage fans of rap, hip-hop and R&B.  I remember the walls of my room being plastered with the pull-out posters of Salt-N-Pepa, En Vogue, Guy, Boyz II Men, and the list goes on and on.

Speaking of words, let's explore the concept a little.  The Greek word logos means, word or speech.  I just want to know who came up with the saying "Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me."  That is a LIE straight from the pit.  That expression is a simple defense mechanism to hide the fact that we really are hurt, by something that someone has said.  Think about some times, as I am sure that there have been several in which someone's words did damage to you.  You're stupid, you're just like your daddy, you'll never make it out of the projects, you're black, you're a woman, you're not good enough, you're not one of us, you're ugly.  The list goes on and on into infinity.  But the irony is that often times statements like these may have come from someone that is very near and dear to us.  With friends and family like that, seriously -- who needs enemies?

The challenge for today is to use your logos, to edify someone, build someone up, encourage someone, make someone feel good about themselves.  I can assure you, that it will come back to you in some unimaginable way.  Use your words to help, not to hurt.  Word Up!

Peace,
Karsten

Esse Quam Videri

Just to hear this brings back memories from my eighth grade North Carolina History class with Ms. Sandra Walton at E.B. Aycock Junior High.  I have always loved history.  But I am not much of a Latin scholar, most of the Latin that I know, I learned through Spanish, church liturgy, Latin Mass and a very passionate officemate whose life mission is to make the entire planet fluent in Latin.

Esse Quam Videri is the official North Carolina State Motto.  It is also the motto for a few fraternities and academies as well.  Esse Quam Videri means "to be rather than to seem."  As a dorky, pubescent 8th grader I never knew what that meant, even now as an adult watching my prime slip away, I still struggle with the significance of this statement. 

Esse Quam Videri appeared in an essay on friendship written by Cicero (you should google him).  I think that I have finally gotten a sense on what it may mean.  To me, this statement inspires individual and collective authenticity.  In other words, be true and genuine to yourself, as opposed to giving an inadequte impression or seeming to be something that you are not.  I am sure that this is going to make for good conversation between me and my officemate.  Happy Friday!  Have a wonderful weekend!  Esse Quam Videri!

Peace,
Karsten

Between the O and the K!

One of my favorite comeback lines to my students when they seem perturbed or agitated, often times with me or some grammar concept is "You'll be alright!"  After making the statement, I normally shrug off and move on to the next order of business in class, because they will figure it out, they will be alright.  I often use this expression with my friends as well.

However, there are times when you may feel that you are not going to be alright.  I have lived life long enough and have come out on top in many situations.  Many times we know that the situation will be OK, but we are often times stuck between the O and the K!  Right now, sitting in my office at the beginning of another school year, I am between the O and the K.  I've managed to keep my sanity thru the closing of many academic years.  I know in May that I will be OK.  But here I am just sitting, with worries, anticipation, anxiety and yes, fear.

What do you do when stuck between the O and the K?  Tell yourself that if you woke up this morning, that is another opportunity to get on the other side of the K.  Sometimes there are situations far beyond our control and the only thing that we can do is pray and meditate.  But think on all the other times you've emerged from a dooming situation and focus on the light at the end of the tunnel.  Remember, "You'll be alright!"  and you will make to the other side of the K in OK!

Peace,
Karsten

The Gardener

I just left a faculty book discussion on Parker J. Palmer's book The Courage to Teach.  It's a really good book.  One thing that I discovered, is that I enjoy having intellectual conversations about my profession with my colleagues.  One would think that teachers do this all the time, but due to the complexities of our school activities and individual teaching schedules, it does not always happen.

After the large group discussion, we broke into smaller groups of three or four.  I was in a group with two colleagues whom I admire very much, an English teacher and a Humanities teacher.  We had an interesting discussion during which, I discovered that when I am teaching at my best, I am like a gardener.  I drop seeds of knowledge that take a long time to germinate and bring forth the expected fruit.  However the end results of knowledge, wisdom and practical experience are very timely and enjoyable.

The challenge for today is, think about your vocation, and how you perform, and what you are like when you perform.  For example, when I am coaching or presenting at my best, I feel like...Get in touch with those feelings and reignite the passion that you have for your profession, whether it is teaching, preaching, practicing law or weaving baskets.

 "The darkness around us is deep.  But our great calling, opportunity, and power as educators is to shed light in dark places."  Parker Palmer

Peace,
Karsten

The Sun will come out tomorrow, Put on a Happy Face!

Those are two of my favorite songs from my childhood.  In fact I auditioned for choir at North Carolina State University with Put on a Happy Face.  I love the lyrics to "Tomorrow," especially the line that goes, "When I think of a day that's gray and lonely -- I just stick out my chin and grin, and say...The sun'll come out tomorrow."

We also have to remember that gray skies are gonna clear up, brush off the clouds and cheer up...and spread sunshine all over the place.  I often find myself singing these peppy songs in the shower, at work, in elevators and even grocery store aisles.

Both of these catchy tunes remind us that regardless of the storms, mishaps and trials from yesterday, or the storms that we endured overnight, the sun will come out, and the clouds will pass away.  In life we are in one of three transitory positions:  about to enter a storm, in the middle of the storm, just getting out of the storm.  Friends, it is important to remember that the struggles, storms and trials are only temporal and will pass.  "Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning!"  Keep the faith and let joy abound all over you and yours today and always.

Peace,
Karsten

Butterfly or Bumble Bee?

Growing up and living in the South, I have encountered my fair share of insects with flies and mosquitoes being at the top of the list.  Of course, we cannot forget about those annoying gnats, ants and spiders. Since childhood, I have always been captivated by dragon flies and lightening bugs on a summer night.

But two insects that I find to be peculiarly interesting are the butterfly and the bumble bee.  Both of these insects have countless species, but are similar and different in many ways.  After emerging from a cocoon, butterflies are beautiful creatures that paint the landscape with their various shades and hues.  Often being chased by children.  They have slim bodies with wide wing-spans, which are ideal for flying. 

Conversely, the bumble bee appears to be an overweight, stubbly fellow with a larger belly than wings.  Often, the bumble bees chase us around, as they have the potential to sting.  But, they also produce that sweet tasting ambrosia that we love called honey.  Although, the bumble bee is not easy on the eyes, it has a natural defense mechanism and the ability to produce honey.

The challenge for today is to find some things which may on the outside appearance may not have any beauty at all, and then look for its internal beauty or functionality.  Celebrate it and embrace your own beauty as a human being, that was uniquely created for a time such as this.

Peace,
Karsten

"The Lord does not look at the things the way man looks at.  Man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart."  I Samuel 16:7

To whom much is given...

Blah, blah, blah!  I am sure that you could finish this statement with ...much is required.  While on the phone the other day with a very dear friend, I was reminded of this.  We were in a conversation about a situation with a friend of mine, that has a particular need.

Midway through the conversation, my friend says to me, "Now -- Karsten; to whom much is given, much is required."  I must admit that I actually felt convicted, and a little embarrassed.  Yes, my best friend has called me out yet again.

A lot of times when we hear this scripture which comes from the gospel of Luke, we instantly think about financial or material things.  But I also think that as we are afforded opportunities of more time, that if we share that with someone else, maybe in the future -- someone will be willing to spend a little extra time with us.  Maybe you have a talent that you can share with others?  If you bless someone with your gift and abilities, I am sure that it will come back to you.  On some level, we all have things that we treasure.  Take time to share and see how it comes back to you.

The challenge for today is give of yourself, time, talent and treasure, and see how it will come back to you.  Have a happy and safe weekend!  Remember the words of Luke 12:48.  "From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked."

Peace,
Karsten

Life is good!

Whether I see it on the back of a car--or on a T-shirt, this is one of my favorite adages of the 21st century.  It makes me realize that however chaotic, dramatic or traumatic circumstances are, that life is STILL good, because it could be worse.

I must admit that each time I see the little stick figure guy enjoying what seems to be life on Easy Street, I always get chuckled and begin to beam.  However, I was troubled by a recent news story concerning  R&B singer, Fantasia Barrino's suicide attempt.  Whatever her reason(s), we are not here to judge.  I simply feel that even with the lifestyle of singing, recording studios, performing in the Color Purple, lights, camera and action that she just lost sight of the fact that life is good.  Was it possible that for a few seconds, she forgot about the friends and relatives that she would leave behind?

As the survivor of a close relative that committed suicide, it is painful.  You are constantly plagued with the "If I would have dones, I should have dones, and the If I had it to do all over agains."  In time, it does get easier.  In this jacked up economy, sky rocketed gas prices, extreme unemployment and heat (here in the South), don't forget to remember that "Life is Good!"  The challenge for today is simple:  Think about the people who would be impacted if you were not here and how their situations would be different because of your presence in their lives.  Keep your head up, but most importantly, keep the faith!

Peace,
Karsten

Do you!

Do you!  This expression is very common within the black community.  It's a very common cliche among friends.  Do you!  It could be a word of caution or exhortation.  Urbandictionary.com defines the expression "Do you!" as simply, do what you feel is best of you, or follow your heart.

This, then poses a question.  Do you, follow your heart?  The challenge for today is simple.  Do you!  Follow your heart!  Do what is best for you.  Remember that no one can do you, like you.  You are an original, often imitated, but never ever adequately duplicated.  Do you to the fullest!

Peace,
Karsten

The Old Lady and the mountain

I've had some major BLOGger's block today, as nothing inspirational was coming to me to share.  A friend of mine invited me to a revival service at St. Paul AME Church here in Raleigh, and there I had my Ah-hah moment. 

The guest speaker retold a story that I had heard a long time ago.  The Old Lady and the Mountain.  There is a passage of scripture in which Jesus tells his disciples that they have the ability to tell a mountain to move and cast itself into the sea, and it would happen.

The story begins with a very devout old lady who lived in a very mountainous region.  Each day for years she had to go into town, but in order to get to town, she would have to climb up and down this mountain.  One Sunday while in church the minister referenced the same scripture about the disciples and the mountain being cast away. 

For years, this lady continued to climb up and down the mountain to go into town.  Eventually arthritis had settled in her frail stature, along with other aging ailments.  However, Sunday after Sunday this lady, who was fervent in faith and persistent in patience would pray that God would move the mountain behind her house.  She prayed this prayer for years.  Needless to say that her minister and the parishoners thought her to be a little off (loca) in her petition, and was often laughed at in the face.

One day, while the old lady was at home contemplating to go on her journey up the mountain, an official from the Department of Transportation knocked on her door.  She invited him in and offered him tea.  He told her that her neighborhood was being surveyed because the DOT was in the process building a road to go into the city, but in order to do that they would have to knock a portion of the mountain behind her house down.  The old lady immediately let out a "God, I thank you!" shout of jubilation at this answered prayer.

The moral of the story is, regardless of how foolish your dream or vision may be to others, remember to P.U.S.H.  Pray until something happens.  Remember that the prayer may not get answered when we want a response, but it's always on time.

Peace,
Karsten

Aged or Refined?

Well, here it is, the big day!  To top it all off, my birthday coincides with the New Moon, on the lunar cycle.  One thing that I can always depend on, is a birthday wake up call from my mom. 

There was no birthday song, as there normally is.  However when one's mother says that her spawn is getting old, it makes for a good chuckle if nothing else.  After well wishes for a great and awesome day, my mom hangs up and then commences to do what she has to do today.

So, the lingering question is; Aged or Refined?  somethings improve with age, wine probably being at the top of the list.  Also, cheese, cookbooks, soil, and clothes (they'll be retro soon enough).  Although I am no longer the scrawny 20 year-old, I once was, I look at where I was then compared to where I am now -- I am like wow!!!  I've grown so much, in many ways and am appreciative for all the things and lessons learned (good and bad), that have produced a germinated seed of wisdom.

I may not be where or what I want to be, but thanks be to God that I am not what I used to be.  On your (un)birthday, embrace the aging process, because it will ultimately produce wisdom.  Happy UnBirthday, Everyone!  If you're reading this and today is your birthday, may you be blessed with many, many more.

Peace,
Karsten

"Men are like wine.  Some turn to vinegar, but the best of them improve with age."  C.E.M. Joad

So, Where's the change?

This seems to be the big question.  Has change truly come to America?  Where is the promised change?  My personal response to the latter is...I don't know.  or as we would say in text lingo "IDK." 

In this time of economic uncertainty, downturn, ridiculous unemployment, oozing oil in the Gulf of Mexico, wars and rumors of war, I just don't know.  To my brothers and sisters that are holding out for that job, I pray that you find the strength to keep going.  It makes me think twice before I complain about mine.  For the service men and women fighting what seems to some as a pointless war, my prayers for a speedy return home to your family are yours.  For everyone in the Gulf region that was affected by the oil spill, I pray for your loss and your continued patience and strength.

It just seems to me that we are majoring and minoring on what is not significant.  As badly as I would love to be in Palma de Mallorca with First Lady Obama, is it my place to judge, criticize or complain about her well deserved vacation?  Believe me, I LOVE SPAIN! 

My challenge to you today is to think about your personal situation; in the grand scheme of things, and remember it could be worse.  Here lies my question again.  So, Where is the change?  I think that the change is evident all around us.  It is incumbent upon us to be change agents of love, equality and justice for all people.  Change agents are transitional in both thought and action.  That means that they are always doing something productive. 

Be a change agent.  Dare to be different!  Are you a part of the problem or the solution.  Nothing is rarely accomplished by complaining.  Change has come and you are the change.

Peace,
Karsten

"Be the change you want to see in the world."  Gandhi

Where did the summer go?

As I sit and contemplate my pending fate of a barrage of papers to grade, students in my office, colleagues, bosses and parents to interact with, the question that keeps coming to my mind is "Where did the summer go?"  My birthday, which is Monday is very bittersweet for me.  In some years, it was the first day of faculty returning to school after summer break.  I am looking forward to my birthday.

I was at a birthday party last night, not mine but a friend's, imagine four Leos in the same room.  One of the topics that came up during conversation was "Operation S.O.S."  Operation Save our Summer.  I took that to mean, that as Labor Day is nearly a month away, stop and take time to do something fun in all this heat and humidity.  In short, take time to enjoy life and enjoy just being.  I know this is particularly difficult.  So for every week between now and Labor Day, I challenge you to do something fun, come at peace with someone.  This could be as simple as: SLOW DOWN! STOP! RELAX! BREATHE!  Don't get so caught up on the journey that you lose sight of your destination.  Operation Save Our Summer is in full effect.

Peace,
Karsten

Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you.  Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.  John 14:27