I don't post here as often as I should. I mean my last blog post was in February. However I will more than likely be blogging weekly this semester for a class. So look for a revamped blog with often posts coming then. At this point in time I have been writing a blog post a week for work, thus not really setting aside enough time to blog here. This is not an excuse, merely an explanation to cover what is to come.
On to blog time.
Honestly I never meant for this to become a blog about relationships. When dealing with relationships though is when I have the most on my mind to sort through typically.
What is worth fighting for in a relationship?
What does a Godly relationship look like?
Now I'm not just talking about like a significant other type relationship, but true friendship (which I consider to be a form of a relationship), and any other form of connection that could fit inside a relationship (such as family members ect.).
Now I'm not a relationship guru, honestly most would consider me a relationship dunce. I'm not good at maintaining relationships, I just kind of let them happen. Family relationships are the only things that I really put effort into. It's like I have expected relationships to work.
It hasn't been until this summer that I have really began to figure out what it means to maintain relationships. I have begun to notice things about relationships that I have so blindly missed before, that somehow now are beginning to make sense.
As someone in ministry, we aren't just simply expected to teach, we are called to be learning as well. The unique thing is standing before a group of people to teach them, and experiencing, (learning) what God has meant for you. This summer most of it has had a central focus on past relationship mistakes and how to overcome them.
Now I am beginning to see even clearer than before what makes a Godly relationship, and what is worth fighting for in a relationship. I have had it in my head at times that if a person really cares about the relationship that they will make sure it lasts. In the end this has just left me with a lot of unfulfilled relationships. A true relationship takes two people.
I have began trying this concept of making sure that if someone wants to develop a relationship with me, that I do my end to uphold that relationship. Fighting for the right things in a relationship and not for just what I want in a relationship. In doing so I have found more fulfilling friendships.
The key though to all of this has been taking the time to listen to what it is that God wants in my relationships, what he has been teaching me this summer. It has been a truly enlightening and personally growing experience. I'm excited to see what God has for future relationships.
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
How He Loves Us
Asking God to do something is an interesting thing. Honestly we have no idea how those prayers will be answered. The main thing is being able to step back and realize the gem that He has handed us.
I don't think people realize how much they influence each other. Sometimes I myself even forget the influence I have on others.
This past weekend a friend from high school started up a conversation with me, ironically about work of all things...
The amount of influence we have had on each other though in these past five days has been phenomenal. To the point that all that we can do is give the glory to God, because we know that what has happened is not any of our doing.
So back to my original statement. I've been in a rut lately. Caught up in life and not really moving anywhere spiritually. When I first began talking to this friend, I knew that I needed to get out of the rut, because they were going to hold me accountable, and it's not like the sort of accountability that my dad holds me to.
This is what I mean by influence. I don't think my friend even realizes that this has happened. But us talking to each other has not only lead to me moving out of the rut, but to the point of making a new trail, and considering possibilities that I would have never imagined last week. (Which seems really crazy for me to say).
So currently, I'm reading Isaiah and it's like a slap in the face for how I have been for a while now. I don't think people grasp things that the Israelites did to move them away from God. If people realized they would see that it's the same sorts of things that happen to us here, and God promised and allowed some nasty things to happen to them.
I'm very thankful and will be eternally thankful for the things that have happened in the past five days.
I don't think people realize how much they influence each other. Sometimes I myself even forget the influence I have on others.
This past weekend a friend from high school started up a conversation with me, ironically about work of all things...
The amount of influence we have had on each other though in these past five days has been phenomenal. To the point that all that we can do is give the glory to God, because we know that what has happened is not any of our doing.
So back to my original statement. I've been in a rut lately. Caught up in life and not really moving anywhere spiritually. When I first began talking to this friend, I knew that I needed to get out of the rut, because they were going to hold me accountable, and it's not like the sort of accountability that my dad holds me to.
This is what I mean by influence. I don't think my friend even realizes that this has happened. But us talking to each other has not only lead to me moving out of the rut, but to the point of making a new trail, and considering possibilities that I would have never imagined last week. (Which seems really crazy for me to say).
So currently, I'm reading Isaiah and it's like a slap in the face for how I have been for a while now. I don't think people grasp things that the Israelites did to move them away from God. If people realized they would see that it's the same sorts of things that happen to us here, and God promised and allowed some nasty things to happen to them.
I'm very thankful and will be eternally thankful for the things that have happened in the past five days.
Friday, January 21, 2011
Pity the man who falls and has no one to pick him up
Recently I have been assessing my relationship with Christ. I feel that this is something that is necessary with every follower, on a frequent basis. As I considered it there are some passages of Scripture that I believe come together to point to a way that our relationship should work. I highly doubt any of this is revolutionary, however I do feel obligated to share.
When the Bible talks about people doing things, they are typically doing them in pairs. From Genesis in the beginning with Adam and Eve (Gen. 2:18), to the disciples (Luke 10:1) and Paul's ministry (Acts 13:4) going out by two. This concept of it's not good for man to be alone, is not simply for emotional well being. I believe this is for spiritual well being. This concept of the accountability partner. Think about it. When we are surrounded by Christ followers we are going to be digging deeper, drawing closer to Christ. We need this fellowship in order to have a deeper relationship with Christ.
When I say fellowship though we aren't talking about our current modern idea of fellowship, where we all get together "to relax and enjoy ourselves." The fellowship that I speak of is New Testament fellowship, where believers met together to worship God, through song and the studying of Scriptures. They enjoyed doing this so much, they found such joy in this, that worshipping was their fellowship, it wasn't all fun and games like modern Christianity has turned it into.
As Christians, if we could grasp the need to hold each other accountable, the idea of being in constant connection with Christ, no telling the change we could make.
When the Bible talks about people doing things, they are typically doing them in pairs. From Genesis in the beginning with Adam and Eve (Gen. 2:18), to the disciples (Luke 10:1) and Paul's ministry (Acts 13:4) going out by two. This concept of it's not good for man to be alone, is not simply for emotional well being. I believe this is for spiritual well being. This concept of the accountability partner. Think about it. When we are surrounded by Christ followers we are going to be digging deeper, drawing closer to Christ. We need this fellowship in order to have a deeper relationship with Christ.
When I say fellowship though we aren't talking about our current modern idea of fellowship, where we all get together "to relax and enjoy ourselves." The fellowship that I speak of is New Testament fellowship, where believers met together to worship God, through song and the studying of Scriptures. They enjoyed doing this so much, they found such joy in this, that worshipping was their fellowship, it wasn't all fun and games like modern Christianity has turned it into.
As Christians, if we could grasp the need to hold each other accountable, the idea of being in constant connection with Christ, no telling the change we could make.
Sunday, January 16, 2011
Faith Without Works, well that just ain't happenin'
In case you didn't know, the title is from a Rich Mullins song.
Secondly, this is indirectly about faith, not an entire post about faith.
So I'm currently reading a book, it's popular, though I don't really care for you to know what it is, because it really isn't necessary to know what I'm reading at the moment.
Here is the deal though, and I wrote about this two years ago, but in a different setting, so continue reading after the next paragraph, cause I promise you, this is different.
There are a lot of good books out there, however if we as Christians aren't actively seeking the Scriptures and putting them into practice, what makes us think that reading a book is going to change that?
Maybe reading a book is what will change your mind, give you that jolt to change. However, more than likely you are going to get a spiritual high, much like the church camp high and then four months later be looking for the next new book to put you back in line. That's why every four to six months some new book that is going to revolutionize your Christian walk comes out. But they are needed, because for some reason the current believers think that this is one of the few ways they will suddenly draw closer to Christ, that or through worship, or a dynamic speaker to name a few.
So what am I saying here really? Following Christ, this faith that we supposedly have, first off is a choice. We aren't going to experience one of those three things I have listed above and become a true follower of Christ. No something has to take place between those two things happening and that is known as a choice. We have to choose to change, and then stick to that commitment. But for some reason as Christians we don't want to. We may try for a little while, and maybe even reach a deeper walk with Christ, but then it's like we mark the notch in our belt and go back to our old lifestyle.
Here's the deal, we are called to a life of change. Not a moment of change. So in essence faith without works, it just isn't happening: meaning, it's not a one time deal, it's not going to the salvation army and making food boxes, it's not helping with disaster relief, it's not donating to a homeless shelter.
What it is, is taking what we read in the Bible (because it has to start there, you can't start with something you read from a book, after all, how do you know if what you read in that book is Bible based) and making it a part of your lifestyle. And technically it shouldn't even be referenced as your lifestyle it should be referenced as Christ's lifestyle that you are trying to live (as Christians that is).
So here's the deal, please don't rant to me about how amazing the book you are reading is and how it revolutionizes what you think, until A. You are living out what the Bible teaches and B. You actually show me how that book you have read has truly revolutionized your life.
Am I saying that I'm to that point? Where I'm living out the Bible, no not at all. But I can tell you that until you are living daily (that's the hard part for me) what the Bible teaches, everything that you read in outside books, will be worth a fraction of what its worth when you are truly living Christ's lifestyle.
Secondly, this is indirectly about faith, not an entire post about faith.
So I'm currently reading a book, it's popular, though I don't really care for you to know what it is, because it really isn't necessary to know what I'm reading at the moment.
Here is the deal though, and I wrote about this two years ago, but in a different setting, so continue reading after the next paragraph, cause I promise you, this is different.
There are a lot of good books out there, however if we as Christians aren't actively seeking the Scriptures and putting them into practice, what makes us think that reading a book is going to change that?
Maybe reading a book is what will change your mind, give you that jolt to change. However, more than likely you are going to get a spiritual high, much like the church camp high and then four months later be looking for the next new book to put you back in line. That's why every four to six months some new book that is going to revolutionize your Christian walk comes out. But they are needed, because for some reason the current believers think that this is one of the few ways they will suddenly draw closer to Christ, that or through worship, or a dynamic speaker to name a few.
So what am I saying here really? Following Christ, this faith that we supposedly have, first off is a choice. We aren't going to experience one of those three things I have listed above and become a true follower of Christ. No something has to take place between those two things happening and that is known as a choice. We have to choose to change, and then stick to that commitment. But for some reason as Christians we don't want to. We may try for a little while, and maybe even reach a deeper walk with Christ, but then it's like we mark the notch in our belt and go back to our old lifestyle.
Here's the deal, we are called to a life of change. Not a moment of change. So in essence faith without works, it just isn't happening: meaning, it's not a one time deal, it's not going to the salvation army and making food boxes, it's not helping with disaster relief, it's not donating to a homeless shelter.
What it is, is taking what we read in the Bible (because it has to start there, you can't start with something you read from a book, after all, how do you know if what you read in that book is Bible based) and making it a part of your lifestyle. And technically it shouldn't even be referenced as your lifestyle it should be referenced as Christ's lifestyle that you are trying to live (as Christians that is).
So here's the deal, please don't rant to me about how amazing the book you are reading is and how it revolutionizes what you think, until A. You are living out what the Bible teaches and B. You actually show me how that book you have read has truly revolutionized your life.
Am I saying that I'm to that point? Where I'm living out the Bible, no not at all. But I can tell you that until you are living daily (that's the hard part for me) what the Bible teaches, everything that you read in outside books, will be worth a fraction of what its worth when you are truly living Christ's lifestyle.
Saturday, January 15, 2011
Questions about Church
I was recently asked the following list of questions, below each question was my response. I felt like this was something that everyone could benefit from.
1. I stayed in church because it was an every Sunday thing. It was my lifestyle (originally). It wasn't until about 4 months into the "finding a church" process that I developed my true reason for staying in church, which you will find in #2
2. I ended up at London because it was a place where I could not only learn (you can learn wherever you are as long as you are willing) but I also had the opportunity to invest in the church as well (which is the real reason why we should be a part of a church). London runs a split worship service (half hymns/ half contemporary) is welcoming to all visitors (seriously) and has opportunities to invest back into the congregation on several levels.
I personally enjoy a more modern service, however recently I have come to notice that more services are becoming a show than a gathering of believers. When we reach this state in the church it is no longer what is meant to be.
I am looking for some input on college ministry. I never even was in a youth group or college ministry. I wasn’t in church at that time of my life.
If you have a few minutes, could you answer a few questions….as many or as few as you can.
Thank you. You just don’t know how much I appreciate it.
1. When you went to college, what kept you in church? Or what took you from church?
(that hottie, your parents couldn’t tell you what to do anymore, didn’t want to get up, my friends were going, just wanted to go….whatever it was)
1. I stayed in church because it was an every Sunday thing. It was my lifestyle (originally). It wasn't until about 4 months into the "finding a church" process that I developed my true reason for staying in church, which you will find in #2
2. If you went, what pulled you to that church?
2. I ended up at London because it was a place where I could not only learn (you can learn wherever you are as long as you are willing) but I also had the opportunity to invest in the church as well (which is the real reason why we should be a part of a church). London runs a split worship service (half hymns/ half contemporary) is welcoming to all visitors (seriously) and has opportunities to invest back into the congregation on several levels.
3. What would bring you to a service?3. I personally believe that "church services" should involve the entire church, from the age of accountability into senior citizens. Time of day, or day of the week doesn't matter to me as long as if it is what is known as a traditional church service, it involves the entire church. I do not believe that a College service should ever replace a church service, though I do believe it is a good supplementation to use as a way to help ease college students back into the church (over 78% of students right now have been involved in church in the past for more than 6 months at a time).
Cool worship, alternative, contemporary, hymns, none at all?
The time….Sunday morning, one evening, an afternoon….?
Food?
I personally enjoy a more modern service, however recently I have come to notice that more services are becoming a show than a gathering of believers. When we reach this state in the church it is no longer what is meant to be.
4. Was it important that someone from the ministry made you feel like they cared?4. It is extremely important that every member of the body of believers feels welcome. If members of the body do not feel welcome then the body is not living what it is teaching (unless of course it is teaching segregation, which is a sin).
5. Does age matter?5. Every group of believers should at least have a group of older believers in order to train the next generation of believers into action. If you are missing this, then you lack the wisdom and direction that every body of believers needs.
Anything else you want to share……
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
Monday, December 20, 2010
Defined
So I spent a majority of my day today preparing to apply for internships. Specifically with Compassion International . I felt during the day like I had accomplished nothing. This lead to a succession of thoughts for the rest of the evening. (Just so you know once I finally submitted three applications, I felt that I had accomplished something).
What we do defines us. We have heard it a thousand times (or at least I have). I know that I am a person who enjoys ministry, the outdoors and being with people. So when I am doing things that are the opposite of that, I feel like I am accomplishing nothing. I feel this way because it's not who I am. If we allow busy work (school, jobs, ect) to be all that we focus on and do, then that is what we become; Students, workers ect.
So what does this mean. Well first as Christians, this should mean that we are Christ like; in everything. However, a majority of the time we settle, at least that's what I do. We do what is convenient for us, (based on the worlds standards of course). If we were followers of Christ first in our lives (which is what should be our first definer) then the rest of our life will follow suit, in accordance to what God wants.
I think this is why I enjoy ministry so much (for as much as it frustrates me). I believe that if I wasn't so excited about ministry, I would not be excited about Christ, and vise versa. This would in turn cause me to be the work and school focused person, that is no longer defined as anything.
What we do defines us. We have heard it a thousand times (or at least I have). I know that I am a person who enjoys ministry, the outdoors and being with people. So when I am doing things that are the opposite of that, I feel like I am accomplishing nothing. I feel this way because it's not who I am. If we allow busy work (school, jobs, ect) to be all that we focus on and do, then that is what we become; Students, workers ect.
So what does this mean. Well first as Christians, this should mean that we are Christ like; in everything. However, a majority of the time we settle, at least that's what I do. We do what is convenient for us, (based on the worlds standards of course). If we were followers of Christ first in our lives (which is what should be our first definer) then the rest of our life will follow suit, in accordance to what God wants.
I think this is why I enjoy ministry so much (for as much as it frustrates me). I believe that if I wasn't so excited about ministry, I would not be excited about Christ, and vise versa. This would in turn cause me to be the work and school focused person, that is no longer defined as anything.
Saturday, December 11, 2010
Ringing in the Bucket List
So today I rang bells for the Salvation Army. Only for an hour so far, however I may end up going back at some point this afternoon or next week. Anyway while I was standing there, I was like "This is something I can mark off of my list" and then I realized that I didn't have a list. I think you know what kind of list I'm talking about, the list of things you want to do with your life. Crazily enough ringing bells for the Salvation Army was definitely on that list. Doing so is one of those things that our country views as the ultimate humanitarian sacrifice (well unless you are one of the ones that are getting paid to do it, then I suppose they are happy to be paying your salary in a time of high employment rates!). So I began to think in my head, "What else should be on my list, what do I really wish to accomplish in my life."
Here's the deal, if you don't know what you want to accomplish in your life, then technically you don't have any accomplishments. You just have things that you have done. Because when you accomplish something, that is something that you fulfill (coming from http://dictionary.com). This is an interesting thought. I believe that a person knows inside of them what they were meant to do. They just have to search that out (obviously for Christians this entails prayer and seeking God's will in the matter).
I used to think that "Bucket Lists" were silly, however through what I have learned this semester I am beginning to see the benefit of having one. Especially if you line out ones not only for recreational things, but accomplishments that you want to make in your career as well. Look for a list coming from me later today as well! I have some great things in mind, as well as some cool things that I am already able to mark off of the list.
Here's the deal, if you don't know what you want to accomplish in your life, then technically you don't have any accomplishments. You just have things that you have done. Because when you accomplish something, that is something that you fulfill (coming from http://dictionary.com). This is an interesting thought. I believe that a person knows inside of them what they were meant to do. They just have to search that out (obviously for Christians this entails prayer and seeking God's will in the matter).
I used to think that "Bucket Lists" were silly, however through what I have learned this semester I am beginning to see the benefit of having one. Especially if you line out ones not only for recreational things, but accomplishments that you want to make in your career as well. Look for a list coming from me later today as well! I have some great things in mind, as well as some cool things that I am already able to mark off of the list.
Thursday, December 9, 2010
12 Days of Conchmas
Me singing; for 12 free shirts, any day! So yeah, Conch Tees is giving away 12 free shirts to two lucky people. I decided to rewrite the twelve days of Christmas with twelve of their shirts mentioned. It was a lot of fun to write and make, hope you guys enjoy it!
Hidden Camera Resume Review
So during the application process I won a free shirt from Pongo Resume. As a way of saying thanks I made a video for them. It covers things on resumes that keep people from getting hired. The people at Pongo loved it, I hope you guys find it beneficial as well!
Coke Zero Debate
So recently I haven't been writing so much (in case you haven't noticed). I have been putting a lot of time into my application for I Wear Your Shirt. I was asked to make a video for Coke Zero, and I did it in form of a debate for several reasons. 1. If you watch their ads you see that they are questioning the legitimacy of Coca-Cola infringing on Coke Zero, so why not debate it out? 2. Coke Zero has several persuasive reasons as to why to drink it, so it makes sense. 3. Debate comes natural to me..
It's been a fun ride with this application process, thanks for everyones support!
Saturday, November 27, 2010
T is for Tenacity
Thoughts on Black Friday and how it relates to the I Wear Your Shirt job responsibilities.
Friday, November 26, 2010
Consumerism, Black Friday, and Christ
How does our relationship with Christ tie into all of this though? This is where we should be bringing everything back to.
I believe that if we miss Christ in all of this then we shouldn't be doing it. If we are able to be consumers and still keep our focus on Christ then right on.
The moment that we lose sight of Christ though is the moment that consumerism has become just another idol.
Some people would take it to the extreme (and rightly so) saying that if you are not willing to stay up all night sharing Christ's love, doing his work. Then why should you stay up all night shopping?
To which could be countered, well He wants us to be good stewards of our money doesn't he? This however could be something that Jon Acuff likes to refer to as a "Jesus Juke."
So I think at this point in my walk, I can't confirm either side, because I'm been on both sides. Right now I don't have a definitive answer and I don't want to Jesus Juke you.
I Bought a Wii: Part 2
It just amazes me though the amount of money that people spend on things that they don't really need. Do I need a Wii? No, not particularly. But it's going to be fun right? That's what it's all about right, is enjoying yourself?
Some people would say yes, "Seth you need to lighten up and live alittle." Others would say "What a waste, you could spend that money elsewhere for greater things"
I can't decide which line I land on. A majority of the time I try to live my life as a minimalist (until something catches my eye).
This is something that I think our country has caught a glimpse of with the recession, but I don't believe they have completely grasped it. At least not from the shopping crowds that I have seen.
But my generation in particular have taken grasp of this idea of less is more. They almost run towards it, which is something I enjoy (but creates a marketing nightmare).
I bought a Wii: Part 1
I find consumerism a very interesting thing. Especially as it relates to Black Friday.
I mean this is consumerism at its best right? Literally people purchasing things that they normally wouldn't otherwise purchase, because they can get it for a good deal.
I myself try and maximize my opportunity. Maybe that is what everyone else is doing. Sitting here maximizing their opportunities.
But take what I have done for instance. I purchased four dvd's at walmart tonight that are going to make great gifts (well three of them will, one of them is for me).
I am then purchasing a Nitendo Wii. Given this is a ridiculous way to purchase it, but it is a phenomenal deal. This is actually a deal that is listed on most Black Friday sites as a top twenty deal. That's pretty sweet I think.
But what does this say about us as a nation? We are sitting out here, spending our break, running essentially to get the "next best deal."
Sure people say they are "thankful for good deals" but they aren't getting to spend quality time with their family like this holiday was meant for.
I myself have used the opportunity, since I am doing it alone, to get a majority of my homework for the next week done, in order to spend the next two days completely devoted to family. I believe I am maximizing my time spent awake.
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
The Contest
So I have been warning of a contest.
Sorry I was unable to post this before midnight.
So I have put in a Video Resume for I Wear Your Shirt, thus this entire contest will be revolving around my I Wear Your Shirt Video Resume.
The Contest that I speak of will net some pretty sweet prizes, however, every contest has to have rules.
The Contest is meant to gain views, comments, and viral sharing of this link --> http://iwearyourshirt.com/hiring/application/7865/seth-alan-fendley
You will see the link numerous times throughout this post.
Rules for the contest
1. No Spamming (multiple comments) on the video
2. The comment must have some body to it, saying "cool" won't cut it..
3. You must have ten individuals (directly related to you) to be officially entered.
4. These ten individuals must leave a comment on the video. They can then share the video and try to gain their own ten people as well, if not more.
5. If the video reaches 1,000 comments there will be more than just one prize (probably some pretty sweet t-shirts, since that's what this is about).
6. You must send me a message with each person's name. *Please wait and send a message with ten names at a time, to save us both time and messages.
That's all it takes, share, comment, gain comments. There will be an event created on Facebook tomorrow lining out what I will be giving away as a grand prize.
*contest is subject to change at anytime. Prizes will be awarded depending on if I actually get the job. That's the whole point of this, is to help me get the job. So if you want to win some really sweet free prizes then share, tweet, and post this sucker up. Anything you do will help move me towards the job! Thanks!
Sorry I was unable to post this before midnight.
So I have put in a Video Resume for I Wear Your Shirt, thus this entire contest will be revolving around my I Wear Your Shirt Video Resume.
The Contest that I speak of will net some pretty sweet prizes, however, every contest has to have rules.
The Contest is meant to gain views, comments, and viral sharing of this link --> http://iwearyourshirt.com/hiring/application/7865/seth-alan-fendley
You will see the link numerous times throughout this post.
Rules for the contest
1. No Spamming (multiple comments) on the video
2. The comment must have some body to it, saying "cool" won't cut it..
3. You must have ten individuals (directly related to you) to be officially entered.
4. These ten individuals must leave a comment on the video. They can then share the video and try to gain their own ten people as well, if not more.
5. If the video reaches 1,000 comments there will be more than just one prize (probably some pretty sweet t-shirts, since that's what this is about).
6. You must send me a message with each person's name. *Please wait and send a message with ten names at a time, to save us both time and messages.
That's all it takes, share, comment, gain comments. There will be an event created on Facebook tomorrow lining out what I will be giving away as a grand prize.
*contest is subject to change at anytime. Prizes will be awarded depending on if I actually get the job. That's the whole point of this, is to help me get the job. So if you want to win some really sweet free prizes then share, tweet, and post this sucker up. Anything you do will help move me towards the job! Thanks!
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Time Management and Social Media
So something I have learned recently from my I Wear Your Shirt Video Resume process is that time management is key. As I have engrossed myself within this social media campaign, I have realized how much time can be spent online again.
I joked on http://www.iwearyourshirt.com today that I haven't gotten angry birds yet because I would become addicted to it. I think that it's easily to be distracted from life right now. Between what we have outside of the computer as well as what you are expected to keep up with online as well.
I have become somewhat addicted to growing my twitter recently. This has come because of the video resume and I feel that this is a great way to reach people to share my resume. However it's easy to lose grip with life with all of the sharing and watching the video. You instead become to immortalize yourself. So you have to step back and take some time off.
I have found that I actually do a better job with classes. I think this is the case because I want both things so bad I don't want to mess anything up. I need to keep my scholarship but I would love the http://iwearyourshirt.com/hiring/application/7865/seth-alan-fendley job as well.
I joked on http://www.iwearyourshirt.com today that I haven't gotten angry birds yet because I would become addicted to it. I think that it's easily to be distracted from life right now. Between what we have outside of the computer as well as what you are expected to keep up with online as well.
I have become somewhat addicted to growing my twitter recently. This has come because of the video resume and I feel that this is a great way to reach people to share my resume. However it's easy to lose grip with life with all of the sharing and watching the video. You instead become to immortalize yourself. So you have to step back and take some time off.
I have found that I actually do a better job with classes. I think this is the case because I want both things so bad I don't want to mess anything up. I need to keep my scholarship but I would love the http://iwearyourshirt.com/hiring/application/7865/seth-alan-fendley job as well.
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Back in the days when I was a Teenager...
So another birthday. I obviously didn't get the job yesterday. Sadness. However there is still the December hiring. This is something to look forward to. So what do I have to say about my birthday? Obviously I am no longer a teenager, a plus for me? Maybe.
I was talking with a coworker last night and it makes me wonder about whether or not I have truly maximized my potential in the twenty years I have been alive on this earth.
As I reflect back there is a past riddle with mistakes, however there are almost as many successes as well. This is what has made my life exciting I suppose. The amount of times that successes have come through in phenomenal ways that can only point to a magnificent Creator.
I have began to live for those days. The days when you can feel a success coming upon you. That is my addiction almost. When a plan falls into place, it is like art to me.
I think this is why I have chosen the major that I am in, because I like to solve a problem, execute the plan, and then see the changes. It's a really cool effect.
Now I just struggle with how I will use what I am learning for Christ. That's the key. Cause if I'm using it for personal gain then it's all for shame essentially.
I was talking with a coworker last night and it makes me wonder about whether or not I have truly maximized my potential in the twenty years I have been alive on this earth.
As I reflect back there is a past riddle with mistakes, however there are almost as many successes as well. This is what has made my life exciting I suppose. The amount of times that successes have come through in phenomenal ways that can only point to a magnificent Creator.
I have began to live for those days. The days when you can feel a success coming upon you. That is my addiction almost. When a plan falls into place, it is like art to me.
I think this is why I have chosen the major that I am in, because I like to solve a problem, execute the plan, and then see the changes. It's a really cool effect.
Now I just struggle with how I will use what I am learning for Christ. That's the key. Cause if I'm using it for personal gain then it's all for shame essentially.
It's Your Right, Exercise it!
As I considered this topic there are two sides to the issue concerning the idea of corporations infringing on the freedom of speech . These two sides are corporations that run the media and then the rest of the corporations that are separate from the media. I consider these two different sides of the issue because media is the watchdog of the government and the voice of the people. The moment media is no longer the voice of the people, then there is ample opportunity for them to infringe upon rights and not allow for the freedoms of speech that a person is entitled to by the Constitution. The second side deals with corporations outside of media. These should be entitled to control outside content in any way they see fit. Both of these ideas I plan on elaborating on throughout the following post.
I do not believe that corporations can infringe upon someones freedom of speech. A corporation has every right to not endorse or drop someone based on their behaviors. The individual in question represents the corporation to a degree. So if that person would bring negative press to the corporation, then the corporation has every right to censor that individual in how they reflect on the corporation. I do not think that this takes away a person’s freedom of speech in any way, corporations are required to abide by employment laws, but these don’t cover someones speech. If a person is deemed a harm to the corporation, then the corporation has every reason to be rid of that individual. Just like should a person be a positive voice for the corporation they may choose to hire them to endorse their products.
However I believe every person is entitled to their own opinion. I believe that if you say something outside of your workplace, that is coming from you as an individual you should not be fired for that. I am directing this example towards NPR’s firing of Juan Williams after he said that he felt “personal skittishness over seeing fellow air travelers dressed in Muslim garb.” Seeing as he said it was his personal feeling, and did not reflect anything on NPR, then I do not see any reason as to why he should be fired. The only reason why he should have been fired would have been if there was something in his contract stating that he could not share his personal views with other media outlets. That should have been the only weighing mechanism in whether or not he should have been fired over his television interview. NPR firing him may even violate the National Labor Relations Act, which allows employees to talk freely outside of work, which he was doing by being on television in the interview. This is a prime example of a group censoring someone in a way that I see as absolutely absurd and uncalled for.
NBC even noticed the error in their ways when they suspended Keith Olbermann for supporting people running for political office outside of his job. Even though in this instance he did breach contract, NBC realized that as an individual it is his right to support who he likes, regardless of if he is a popular figure or not. They ended up only suspending him for a day and not completely firing like Juan Williams and the NPR incident.
A person should be fired though as mentioned above if they are going to be cause the corporation a drop in sales or negative press. But they should not be fired if their personal views do not line up with the corporation. This is something that is trying to be covered in the employment non-discrimination act that is trying to be passed through congress at the moment.
With examples like what was presented in our book of corporations censoring people who have no direct correlation with them, I see no problem with that. If a corporation feels that that person is going to bring a negative light to their business as I stated above then they should have the freedom to keep that person or group from doing so. People have to know what market they are marketing themselves to (in the Crow and Dixie Chicks scenarios) if they are going to say things that might offend people, then they must realize the consequences of their actions. Because corporations that sell their items, venues that book them, can choose to not book them if they are going to have off colour remarks about different issues. This can lead to their loss in sales, but really they brought it upon themselves.
However, people being avoided purposefully can pose a problem within the media sector. American media is now owned by major corporations. With news being owned by corporations, they are the gatekeepers of what news they report and what they don’t report.
The media is called to be a watchdog over the government. If they choose what is the best interest of money (which they do at times) then they are in turn not doing what the founding fathers originally wanted the media to do. They are instead doing what is in their best interest. News could be avoided because the media sees that what the news represents could hurt their ratings because people don’t care about it. Doing so though could result in media no longer being a watchdog over the government, thus allowing things to happen in the government to happen without the public knowing about it. Media corporations could be doing this to make money, either unknowingly because they think the news would hurt ratings or knowingly being paid to avoid the news so that things could happen without public knowledge.
If it was just a singular person being avoided, even though they had solid news in relation to something, then this could lead to a persons First Amendment right being infringed upon. A situation like this could only happen though, in my opinion, if more than 50% of the media refused to carry that person’s message. Of course all of this would only be relevant if what was happening was true, hard news.
So a corporation is free to do what they want, as long as it’s not discriminating against a person. However a corporation that controls media should be held to a different standard because they are expected to work at a higher standard. This is what we are taught as journalism majors, if that common standard is missing and a media corporation does not work as the proper watchdog because they are more concerned about money, then we miss the entire point of media. People sometimes miss the fact that media is supposed to be a watchdog and simply view it as a convenient way to know what is going on in the world. Media is supposed to watch after the people, be their voice. However today they end up being the voice of the corporation. When media becomes the voice of the corporations, this is when there is the slightest possibility of them beginning to infringe on the rights of people, as well as going against the high standards set for journalist.
I do not believe that corporations can infringe upon someones freedom of speech. A corporation has every right to not endorse or drop someone based on their behaviors. The individual in question represents the corporation to a degree. So if that person would bring negative press to the corporation, then the corporation has every right to censor that individual in how they reflect on the corporation. I do not think that this takes away a person’s freedom of speech in any way, corporations are required to abide by employment laws, but these don’t cover someones speech. If a person is deemed a harm to the corporation, then the corporation has every reason to be rid of that individual. Just like should a person be a positive voice for the corporation they may choose to hire them to endorse their products.
However I believe every person is entitled to their own opinion. I believe that if you say something outside of your workplace, that is coming from you as an individual you should not be fired for that. I am directing this example towards NPR’s firing of Juan Williams after he said that he felt “personal skittishness over seeing fellow air travelers dressed in Muslim garb.” Seeing as he said it was his personal feeling, and did not reflect anything on NPR, then I do not see any reason as to why he should be fired. The only reason why he should have been fired would have been if there was something in his contract stating that he could not share his personal views with other media outlets. That should have been the only weighing mechanism in whether or not he should have been fired over his television interview. NPR firing him may even violate the National Labor Relations Act, which allows employees to talk freely outside of work, which he was doing by being on television in the interview. This is a prime example of a group censoring someone in a way that I see as absolutely absurd and uncalled for.
NBC even noticed the error in their ways when they suspended Keith Olbermann for supporting people running for political office outside of his job. Even though in this instance he did breach contract, NBC realized that as an individual it is his right to support who he likes, regardless of if he is a popular figure or not. They ended up only suspending him for a day and not completely firing like Juan Williams and the NPR incident.
A person should be fired though as mentioned above if they are going to be cause the corporation a drop in sales or negative press. But they should not be fired if their personal views do not line up with the corporation. This is something that is trying to be covered in the employment non-discrimination act that is trying to be passed through congress at the moment.
With examples like what was presented in our book of corporations censoring people who have no direct correlation with them, I see no problem with that. If a corporation feels that that person is going to bring a negative light to their business as I stated above then they should have the freedom to keep that person or group from doing so. People have to know what market they are marketing themselves to (in the Crow and Dixie Chicks scenarios) if they are going to say things that might offend people, then they must realize the consequences of their actions. Because corporations that sell their items, venues that book them, can choose to not book them if they are going to have off colour remarks about different issues. This can lead to their loss in sales, but really they brought it upon themselves.
However, people being avoided purposefully can pose a problem within the media sector. American media is now owned by major corporations. With news being owned by corporations, they are the gatekeepers of what news they report and what they don’t report.
The media is called to be a watchdog over the government. If they choose what is the best interest of money (which they do at times) then they are in turn not doing what the founding fathers originally wanted the media to do. They are instead doing what is in their best interest. News could be avoided because the media sees that what the news represents could hurt their ratings because people don’t care about it. Doing so though could result in media no longer being a watchdog over the government, thus allowing things to happen in the government to happen without the public knowing about it. Media corporations could be doing this to make money, either unknowingly because they think the news would hurt ratings or knowingly being paid to avoid the news so that things could happen without public knowledge.
If it was just a singular person being avoided, even though they had solid news in relation to something, then this could lead to a persons First Amendment right being infringed upon. A situation like this could only happen though, in my opinion, if more than 50% of the media refused to carry that person’s message. Of course all of this would only be relevant if what was happening was true, hard news.
So a corporation is free to do what they want, as long as it’s not discriminating against a person. However a corporation that controls media should be held to a different standard because they are expected to work at a higher standard. This is what we are taught as journalism majors, if that common standard is missing and a media corporation does not work as the proper watchdog because they are more concerned about money, then we miss the entire point of media. People sometimes miss the fact that media is supposed to be a watchdog and simply view it as a convenient way to know what is going on in the world. Media is supposed to watch after the people, be their voice. However today they end up being the voice of the corporation. When media becomes the voice of the corporations, this is when there is the slightest possibility of them beginning to infringe on the rights of people, as well as going against the high standards set for journalist.
Thursday, November 11, 2010
Take A Moment, Breathe, and Relax
First off, it's only fitting today to take a moment to thank a veteran around you for their service.
Really though I'm taking a moment away from the madness that has become my social media campaign for a job to put things into perspective (at least for me).
Our generation has this tendency to run with things on a whim. I know I do for sure. I ran with this whole job thing because it's my dream job. Seriously. Social media is one of the most effective tools in our society today, and harnassing that tool will take a person very far.
However I have stepped back and quietly observed (though pushing really hard through social media avenues) how this has worked. How everything that I have done in the goal of getting this job, is promote, promote, promote.
This is my dream job for sure, but I have to evaluate and make sure it's what Christ wants in my life too. This is what really caused me to step back and look, because honestly, our social media campaign for Christ, or at least our lifestyle showing Christ, should be as heavy as what I have done this past week.
I'm not saying we are supposed to be fanatics but I am saying if we are going to push something as hard as how I have pushed my resume, should we not push Christ more than that?
As Christians consider that. Honestly guys, I'm really excited at the opportunity this job presents, and I really think I am qualified for the job. Sometimese however I think things need to be put into perspective.
Really though I'm taking a moment away from the madness that has become my social media campaign for a job to put things into perspective (at least for me).
Our generation has this tendency to run with things on a whim. I know I do for sure. I ran with this whole job thing because it's my dream job. Seriously. Social media is one of the most effective tools in our society today, and harnassing that tool will take a person very far.
However I have stepped back and quietly observed (though pushing really hard through social media avenues) how this has worked. How everything that I have done in the goal of getting this job, is promote, promote, promote.
This is my dream job for sure, but I have to evaluate and make sure it's what Christ wants in my life too. This is what really caused me to step back and look, because honestly, our social media campaign for Christ, or at least our lifestyle showing Christ, should be as heavy as what I have done this past week.
I'm not saying we are supposed to be fanatics but I am saying if we are going to push something as hard as how I have pushed my resume, should we not push Christ more than that?
As Christians consider that. Honestly guys, I'm really excited at the opportunity this job presents, and I really think I am qualified for the job. Sometimese however I think things need to be put into perspective.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)