The Catholic Church teaches that God’s love overcomes evil and causes a real change in us. This idea was a hallmark of John Paul II’s theology: "Especially through his lifestyle and through his actions, Jesus revealed that love is present in the world in which we live - an effective love, a love that addresses itself to man and embraces everything that makes up his humanity. This love makes itself particularly noticed in contact with suffering, injustice, and poverty - in contact with the whole historical ‘human condition,’ which in various ways manifests man’s limitation and frailty, both physical and moral. It is precisely the mode and sphere in which love manifests itself that in biblical language is called ‘mercy’" (Dives in Misericordia, 3). The God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, who is fully revealed in Jesus Christ by his mercy, draws good out of evil. Though the full realization of Christ’s victory over evil awaits its appointed time, the Resurrection is a first fruit of that victory and shines forth as the greatest evidence of the efficacy of divine love.
The miracles of Jesus, demonstrations of divine power over the consequences of sin, point to the power of God’s love to overcome sin itself. Such is the lesson of the healing of the paralytic (Mark 2:10–11). God’s love is no less effective with respect to sin than it is with respect to leprosy, blindness, and death. When he touches us with his grace, that is, his love, we are really changed. We are made holy and are justified. This consistent teaching of the Church was restated by Vatican II: "The followers of Christ are called by God, not because of their works, but according to his own purpose and grace. They are justified in the Lord Jesus, because in the baptism of faith they truly become sons of God and sharers in the divine nature. In this way they are really made holy" (Lumen Gentium 40; emphasis added). God’s love accomplishes something we cannot do for ourselves. It forgives sins, causes conversion, justifies, and makes us children of God.
Evidence for the Effectiveness of God’s Love
Without entering into detailed documentation and development, there are several considerations that support the claim that God’s love is effective.
1. This is the clear teaching of the Church. The texts we have viewed stress the real change in us that constitutes justification. We cannot justify ourselves. Even though there is a genuine cooperation on our part with God’s grace; that grace (the term as used here is synonymous with God’s love) is the cause of this change.
2. A love that was not effective wouldn’t correspond to our poverty and suffering. Either we would not be saved, or we would save ourselves. When people are wounded, they do not need a doctor simply to cover up the ugliness. They need a doctor to stop the bleeding and prevent a life-threatening infection. When people are sick, they need a real cure, not a sympathetic bedside manner. What good is love that does not bring about a real healing, a real change?
3. Many of Christ’s miracles changed people physically. Would it make sense if God’s power was less effective in the spiritual and moral realm? The liturgy captures this parallel between the physical and spiritual in the prayer before Communion: "Lord I am not worthy to receive you, but only say the word, and my soul will be healed." This prayer is based on the words of the centurion who believed in the efficacy of Christ’s word to heal his servant (Matt. 8:8). This is the kind of faith the Church desires to arouse in us as we approach Holy Communion.
4. God’s word is effective, as we see in Genesis: "Let there be . . . and so it was." We see it also in Isaiah 55:10–11: "For as the rain and the snow come down from heaven, and return not thither but water the earth, making it bring forth and sprout, giving seed to the sower and bread to the eater, so shall my word be that goes forth from my mouth; it shall not return to me empty, but it shall accomplish that which I purpose, and prosper in the thing for which I sent it." Should God’s word be any less effective when it is the Word Incarnate of the New Testament?
Catholic Doctrine Reconsidered
Let us now consider several elements of Catholic doctrine in light of this efficacy of divine love.
1. The sacraments as real instrumental causes of grace. In and through the sacraments, God loves us efficaciously by sending the Holy Spirit as the fruit of Christ’s paschal mystery. "‘Sacramental grace’ is the grace of the Holy Spirit, given by Christ and proper to each sacrament. The Spirit heals and transforms those who receive him by conforming them to the Son of God. The fruit of the sacramental life is that the Spirit of adoption makes the faithful partakers in the divine nature by uniting them in a living union with the only Son, the Savior" (CCC 1129). The sacraments operate in virtue of the efficacy of God’s love in the same way that the sacrifice of Jesus results in the outpouring of the Holy Spirit.
2. The nature of Christian morality. We saw that Paul’s moral exhortations invoke the principle that action follows upon being. We must be renewed in our being if we are to conform our lives to the demands of the gospel. We cannot become Christians by keeping commandments. In the covenants God has made with his people, commandments specify what is required in order to be good stewards of the gift of new life. But life comes first: God first touches us with the power of his creative and redeeming love; only then does he give the commandments, as in the case of Adam and Eve. Further, we are admonished that our love must be effective (see 1 John 3:18 and Jas. 1:22–25). Only an effective love is a participation in God’s own love, which is also effective.
3. The role of witness in evangelization and holiness in apologetics. Witness unites power to the proclamation of God’s word: "The witness of a Christian life and good works done in a supernatural spirit have great power to draw men to the faith and to God" (CCC 2044, quoting Apostolicam Actuositatem). It has been said that holiness is the greatest apologetic for the Church. Now we know why: Holiness shows the active and transforming presence of God’s love in the Church, despite human weakness.
Conclusion
The principle of the efficacy of God’s love is important for several reasons. Since catechesis is by nature systematic, presenting the faith as an organic whole, our discovery of the connection between the efficacy of God’s love and the elements of Catholic faith presented here serves this goal. The efficacy of God’s love is also important for apologetics and ecumenical dialogue. As we have seen, several elements of Catholic doctrine related to the efficacy of divine love are points on which Catholic faith differs from that of many non-Catholic Christians (though I know many non-Catholic Christians who would not argue anything said here). Understanding that divine love is effective also helps us understand the irreplaceable role of witness in evangelization.
This is a time of renewed evangelization in the Catholic faith, and it is crucial that those who respond to this call place more confidence in the power of a Christian life to reach people’s hearts than in programs, techniques, and arguments. Apologetics and evangelization intersect precisely at this point: presenting to the world, through our changed lives, concrete evidence of the efficacy of God’s love made manifest in Jesus Christ and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit.
Sunday, July 11, 2010
Friday, July 9, 2010
Where to date...where not to date...who knows
It’s been quite some time since I emerged on the town with a lady friend of the romantic persuasion. Dating doesn’t come easily or quickly to a guy who is more thought than action. Often times, it takes so long that I move out of the dating potential zone and into the friend zone. But ask most of my lady friends and they’ll tell you I’m a great guy (one time, one of them said that I would be worth the wait, referring to how long it takes me to make a move). Considering how great a guy I am (supposedly) then no matter what I do in a date type situation, the woman with me would dig it. However, I haven’t dated in so long it seems like I need help before I endeavor to ask my next someone out. I decided to do some research on dating to see if there was anything that had changed since my last relationship. Apparently there have been some developments. Aside from relationships requiring more knowledge of your phone than of your date, there also seems to be greater importance placed on the actual date itself. You’d like to think the success of a first date is all about chemistry, connection, good conversation…but sometimes, where you are and what you’re doing can play a key role in whether things go well or not. Not a new development I guess, but seriously I had a relationship start out on a first date of going to Sonic and going truck shopping. So, I guess if you want to start a potential relationship off on good footing then there are some places you just don’t take your love interest.
We’ll start with a pretty obvious one…family functions. Your date will be nervous enough trying to impress you (woman try to impress men these days, wow, I am out of it), so don’t make someone audition for family and friends, too. Who would need all that pressure? If you are doing this than either you are incredibly comfortable with the normalness of your family or they are too involved in your lives. I didn’t need research for this; I just know it is a terrible idea. The next one seems pretty straight forward and that is not taking a first date to a dance club. Loud music, pulsing lights, guys without shirts… need I say more? A dance club is a hunting ground where everyone’s on the prowl. That would be very uncomfortable especially if you don’t know your first date that well. Think about all the bad things that could happen in this environment: another guy catches her eye, another girl catches your eye, or one or both of you can’t dance (distinct possibility in my case). Both of these venues are obviously bad ideas.
This next one threw me off a little in the first place, but thinking about it more made sense. I’m talking about going to the movies. This was a staple of dating in high school, but apparently it is a little less appreciable when you get older. You spend two hours (or more) staring at a screen, not getting to know each other…plus there’s always a risk the flick will contain a risqué scene that’ll create an awkward moment (happened to me once, awkward…). Plus, you don’t know if she will appreciate your choice in movies or have the very negative reaction of, “Why did you take me to this?” Another one that surprised me a little was the idea of sporting events being a no-no. This is a foundation in my current repertoire. Fresh air (mostly), being close together for a good reason (lack of seat space), and having someone to share the joy of victory or the agony of defeat with seem like a pretty good deal. But, I guess any place that involves face paint, the wave, and angry guys screaming at the referee is no venue for a soul mate connection, according to my research. Some people are of the opinion that sporting events don’t bring out the best in men, but I am not one of those guys, so why should there be a problem.
I am going to touch on the last first date locales that are not good pretty quickly, so I hope you keep up. The beach is out. I love long walks on the beach (yes, I’m sensitive ladies), but I guess that doesn’t mean I should do it on a first meeting. The issue with this one seems to be on the woman’s side, i.e. what do they wear? Comedy clubs are out. If the comic is bad, that lame vibe will extend to the entire evening, apparently. It’s true that comedy is great when it’s good, but horrid when it’s bad. I don’t know about date ruining bad. This one kills me, but mini-golf is out. Trying to outsmart that little windmill is great fun for all ages, but some people seem to think it juvenile. Plus, women don’t like to look ungraceful (from what I hear) and mini-golf is one of those activities that can such the gracefulness right out of you. This is going to kill me, too, but museums are out. A first date is a time to kick back and relax, not solemnly contemplate the works of the great masters according to research. One site said that it’s a little too much intellectual stimulation for a first date. Well, when you’re seeking someone to stimulate your intellect as well as your loins, then it should be a good idea. This one should be a no-brainer, though some may disagree, but coffee bars are out. Some people might think that meeting for coffee is an easy, breezy way to meet. But let’s face it: It’s hardly romantic or fun or, well, worth it.
So, I guess after all of that I learned that there is only one thing to do on a first date…go out to eat/drink. Apparently there is nothing wrong with sharing a meal or a drink with someone as a first date. Though, there are some hurdles to clear with that idea. One, restaurant choice is a difficult thing. If you are like me, you are not picky, so you want her input about where to go. But, if you ask her where she wants to go, it makes you look weak and indecisive (I recently had this conversation with someone who accused me of being indecisive). A very valuable tip would be to avoid theme restaurants (according to my research), because who wants to get to know you over a “dragon egg” at Medieval Times. The other problem you may face is finding someplace where you can actually have a conversation. Sometimes I don’t hear so well, thus being in a loud restaurant distracts me from being able to carry on a discussion. I’ll just throw out one more thing to think about…expense/fanciness. Sure you want to impress her with the gobs of money you’ll throw down just to eat food with her, but sometimes places like that can be really uncomfortable. What if one of you is not dressed appropriately? What if the menu is in French and neither of you speaks it (embarrassing, but could be endearing as well)? From what I have learned, it hasn’t gotten any easier to go out on a first date, but it hasn’t really gotten harder either. I just need to get someone to actually go out with me.
We’ll start with a pretty obvious one…family functions. Your date will be nervous enough trying to impress you (woman try to impress men these days, wow, I am out of it), so don’t make someone audition for family and friends, too. Who would need all that pressure? If you are doing this than either you are incredibly comfortable with the normalness of your family or they are too involved in your lives. I didn’t need research for this; I just know it is a terrible idea. The next one seems pretty straight forward and that is not taking a first date to a dance club. Loud music, pulsing lights, guys without shirts… need I say more? A dance club is a hunting ground where everyone’s on the prowl. That would be very uncomfortable especially if you don’t know your first date that well. Think about all the bad things that could happen in this environment: another guy catches her eye, another girl catches your eye, or one or both of you can’t dance (distinct possibility in my case). Both of these venues are obviously bad ideas.
This next one threw me off a little in the first place, but thinking about it more made sense. I’m talking about going to the movies. This was a staple of dating in high school, but apparently it is a little less appreciable when you get older. You spend two hours (or more) staring at a screen, not getting to know each other…plus there’s always a risk the flick will contain a risqué scene that’ll create an awkward moment (happened to me once, awkward…). Plus, you don’t know if she will appreciate your choice in movies or have the very negative reaction of, “Why did you take me to this?” Another one that surprised me a little was the idea of sporting events being a no-no. This is a foundation in my current repertoire. Fresh air (mostly), being close together for a good reason (lack of seat space), and having someone to share the joy of victory or the agony of defeat with seem like a pretty good deal. But, I guess any place that involves face paint, the wave, and angry guys screaming at the referee is no venue for a soul mate connection, according to my research. Some people are of the opinion that sporting events don’t bring out the best in men, but I am not one of those guys, so why should there be a problem.
I am going to touch on the last first date locales that are not good pretty quickly, so I hope you keep up. The beach is out. I love long walks on the beach (yes, I’m sensitive ladies), but I guess that doesn’t mean I should do it on a first meeting. The issue with this one seems to be on the woman’s side, i.e. what do they wear? Comedy clubs are out. If the comic is bad, that lame vibe will extend to the entire evening, apparently. It’s true that comedy is great when it’s good, but horrid when it’s bad. I don’t know about date ruining bad. This one kills me, but mini-golf is out. Trying to outsmart that little windmill is great fun for all ages, but some people seem to think it juvenile. Plus, women don’t like to look ungraceful (from what I hear) and mini-golf is one of those activities that can such the gracefulness right out of you. This is going to kill me, too, but museums are out. A first date is a time to kick back and relax, not solemnly contemplate the works of the great masters according to research. One site said that it’s a little too much intellectual stimulation for a first date. Well, when you’re seeking someone to stimulate your intellect as well as your loins, then it should be a good idea. This one should be a no-brainer, though some may disagree, but coffee bars are out. Some people might think that meeting for coffee is an easy, breezy way to meet. But let’s face it: It’s hardly romantic or fun or, well, worth it.
So, I guess after all of that I learned that there is only one thing to do on a first date…go out to eat/drink. Apparently there is nothing wrong with sharing a meal or a drink with someone as a first date. Though, there are some hurdles to clear with that idea. One, restaurant choice is a difficult thing. If you are like me, you are not picky, so you want her input about where to go. But, if you ask her where she wants to go, it makes you look weak and indecisive (I recently had this conversation with someone who accused me of being indecisive). A very valuable tip would be to avoid theme restaurants (according to my research), because who wants to get to know you over a “dragon egg” at Medieval Times. The other problem you may face is finding someplace where you can actually have a conversation. Sometimes I don’t hear so well, thus being in a loud restaurant distracts me from being able to carry on a discussion. I’ll just throw out one more thing to think about…expense/fanciness. Sure you want to impress her with the gobs of money you’ll throw down just to eat food with her, but sometimes places like that can be really uncomfortable. What if one of you is not dressed appropriately? What if the menu is in French and neither of you speaks it (embarrassing, but could be endearing as well)? From what I have learned, it hasn’t gotten any easier to go out on a first date, but it hasn’t really gotten harder either. I just need to get someone to actually go out with me.
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
The stars at night are big and bright...
It’s Wednesday and that means it is time for the sports beat. It’s baseball season and though I know there are many of you out there who are all roll up in this NBA free agency business…I could really care less. The NBA season doesn’t start again for months and it is baseball season right now. So yeah, baseball. Speaking of baseball, the All Star break is coming up and that means All Star game selections are out. Guess who hit the All Star Game lottery – the Texas Rangers. Rangers’ outfielder Josh Hamilton and designated hitter Vladimir Guerrero have been named starters for the 81st All-Star Game in Anaheim. These power hitters at the heart of the Rangers line-up were voted in during the fan voting. n addition to Hamilton and Guerrero, Rangers closer Neftali Feliz, shortstop Elvis Andrus and second baseman Ian Kinsler were also named to the American League roster, bringing Texas' total to five players selected to play at Angel Stadium on July 13. The Rangers also had five players in the 2004 All-Star Game in Houston. Andrus was elected by the players while Kinsler is replacing Boston's Dustin Pedroia, who is on the disabled list. It will be the first All-Star Game for both Andrus and Feliz.
But, why stop at five? The American League is in danger of having its seven-game All-Star winning streak come to an end. It's hard to believe it can compete with the National League without Rangers infielder Michael Young on the team. Young, one of five players in the running for this year's American League Final Vote, has been to six straight All-Star Games for the Rangers, and the American League has won all six. Young's contributions have been significant. He is the only player in All-Star Game history to twice record a game-winning RBI in his team's final at-bat. He was the Most Valuable Player in the 2006 All-Star Game when he hit a game-winning two-run triple in the top of the ninth inning to give the American League a 3-2 victory in Pittsburgh. He also drove home the winning run with a sacrifice fly in the 15th inning at Yankee Stadium to give the Americans a 4-3 victory in 2008. Young is competing against Yankees outfielder Nick Swisher, Red Sox infielder Kevin Youkilis, White Sox first baseman Paul Konerko and Twins outfielder Delmon Young to receive the last spot on the American League roster. Swisher has jumped out to an early lead, but voting continues until 3 p.m. CT Thursday online at MLB.com and at the Ballpark in Arlington. The Rangers have launched an "I Like Mike" campaign in which fans will be automatically eligible for a 50 percent discount in all ticket categories up to $30 for a selected Rangers home game in August or September. Full information on the discount can to be found at texasrangers.com/allstar. The Rangers are also offering an All-Star sweepstakes prize of a suite for 20 for a Rangers game in 2010. Fans will be automatically registered for the sweepstakes each of the first 25 times they vote for Young in the All-Star Game Sprint Final Vote. There is no limit to the number of times that fans may vote in this election. However, fans will be registered to win for the sweepstakes just the first 25 times they vote for Young. All rules for the sweepstakes can also be found on on texasrangers.com/allstar. In addition, fans can vote on their mobile phones. Mobile voting is exclusive to Sprint, Nextel and Boost subscribers. From their mobile phones, fans can text A5 to 1122 to cast votes for Young. Standard rate and messaging fees apply. So “Vote Young” for the ASG American League Final Vote. Do it!
The Rangers have lost four out of five and five out of seven, but still are 3.5 games up on Anaheim, who have gotten beat up on by the ChiSox and the Kansas City Royals over the same time period. Even first-place teams can lay an egg every now and then. The one the Texas Rangers laid Monday night against the lowly Cleveland Indians stunk on many levels. Cleveland, which came into the game 16 games under .500 and 15-27 on the road, thumped the Rangers 9-3. Texas has dropped five of its last seven games, and is off to a 1-3 start on its longest homestand of the season. They have to hope they don't have anymore games like Monday, when they were thoroughly dominated by an Indians team against whom the Rangers had won 10 of their last 12 meetings. The list of failing parts Monday was long, but distinguished, though I won’t go into them here. Needless to say, it wasn’t good. The biggest issue that I (and my brother) noticed and commented on was pitching. There is a majority opinion held among the Rangers' hierarchy that strongly suggests Rich Harden, even when healthy, has not pitched nearly as well as the club hoped for this season. That may be true but another truth is becoming self-evident. Harden may not be a No. 1 starter but he certainly has to be better than what the Rangers are currently getting from their fifth starters. Omar Beltre lasted just three innings on Monday night, giving up four runs. At least when Harden tanks a start, it takes him five or six innings. I still support the idea of Omar Beltre, but perhaps we need to rethink his being in the majors for now. Harden is currently on the disabled list with lower back pain, but will start pitching again and a possible rehab assignment this week.
If you follow sports reporter Jennifer Floyd Engel over at the Fort Worth Star-Telegram then you will understand what I am about to say. Her article on Monday, July 5, 2010, dealt with the importance of keeping your prospects as opposed to trading your prospects for good players now. She, being a women, made it a decision between two teams (like Team Edward or Team Jacob Twilight fans) consisting of Team Trade versus Team Triple A. If you don’t understand how the teams correlate to the decision about what to do with your prospects, then just stop reading right now. Just to throw it out there, I am Team Triple A. I think you need to give up prospects for trades, sure, but you don’t need to sell the farm as Jennifer suggests. By the way, did I mention I really don’t like Jennifer Engel? Well, I don’t.
Other Important Rangers Notes (thanks to T.R. Sullivan at texasrangers.com)
Rangers rookie reliever Alexi Ogando is just one inning away from breaking the club mark of most scoreless innings of relief to begin a Major League career. He has 11 scoreless innings. Jeff Zimmerman had 11 2/3 scoreless innings in 1999. ... Ian Kinsler has walked in seven consecutive games, the longest streak of his career and the longest by a Ranger since Josh Hamilton's seven-game streak in 2008. ... Michael Young is one of just six players in the Majors this season to start every game for his team. ... First baseman Justin Smoak is hitless in his last 23 at-bats and has seen his average drop 23 points in his last 12 games.
But, why stop at five? The American League is in danger of having its seven-game All-Star winning streak come to an end. It's hard to believe it can compete with the National League without Rangers infielder Michael Young on the team. Young, one of five players in the running for this year's American League Final Vote, has been to six straight All-Star Games for the Rangers, and the American League has won all six. Young's contributions have been significant. He is the only player in All-Star Game history to twice record a game-winning RBI in his team's final at-bat. He was the Most Valuable Player in the 2006 All-Star Game when he hit a game-winning two-run triple in the top of the ninth inning to give the American League a 3-2 victory in Pittsburgh. He also drove home the winning run with a sacrifice fly in the 15th inning at Yankee Stadium to give the Americans a 4-3 victory in 2008. Young is competing against Yankees outfielder Nick Swisher, Red Sox infielder Kevin Youkilis, White Sox first baseman Paul Konerko and Twins outfielder Delmon Young to receive the last spot on the American League roster. Swisher has jumped out to an early lead, but voting continues until 3 p.m. CT Thursday online at MLB.com and at the Ballpark in Arlington. The Rangers have launched an "I Like Mike" campaign in which fans will be automatically eligible for a 50 percent discount in all ticket categories up to $30 for a selected Rangers home game in August or September. Full information on the discount can to be found at texasrangers.com/allstar. The Rangers are also offering an All-Star sweepstakes prize of a suite for 20 for a Rangers game in 2010. Fans will be automatically registered for the sweepstakes each of the first 25 times they vote for Young in the All-Star Game Sprint Final Vote. There is no limit to the number of times that fans may vote in this election. However, fans will be registered to win for the sweepstakes just the first 25 times they vote for Young. All rules for the sweepstakes can also be found on on texasrangers.com/allstar. In addition, fans can vote on their mobile phones. Mobile voting is exclusive to Sprint, Nextel and Boost subscribers. From their mobile phones, fans can text A5 to 1122 to cast votes for Young. Standard rate and messaging fees apply. So “Vote Young” for the ASG American League Final Vote. Do it!
The Rangers have lost four out of five and five out of seven, but still are 3.5 games up on Anaheim, who have gotten beat up on by the ChiSox and the Kansas City Royals over the same time period. Even first-place teams can lay an egg every now and then. The one the Texas Rangers laid Monday night against the lowly Cleveland Indians stunk on many levels. Cleveland, which came into the game 16 games under .500 and 15-27 on the road, thumped the Rangers 9-3. Texas has dropped five of its last seven games, and is off to a 1-3 start on its longest homestand of the season. They have to hope they don't have anymore games like Monday, when they were thoroughly dominated by an Indians team against whom the Rangers had won 10 of their last 12 meetings. The list of failing parts Monday was long, but distinguished, though I won’t go into them here. Needless to say, it wasn’t good. The biggest issue that I (and my brother) noticed and commented on was pitching. There is a majority opinion held among the Rangers' hierarchy that strongly suggests Rich Harden, even when healthy, has not pitched nearly as well as the club hoped for this season. That may be true but another truth is becoming self-evident. Harden may not be a No. 1 starter but he certainly has to be better than what the Rangers are currently getting from their fifth starters. Omar Beltre lasted just three innings on Monday night, giving up four runs. At least when Harden tanks a start, it takes him five or six innings. I still support the idea of Omar Beltre, but perhaps we need to rethink his being in the majors for now. Harden is currently on the disabled list with lower back pain, but will start pitching again and a possible rehab assignment this week.
If you follow sports reporter Jennifer Floyd Engel over at the Fort Worth Star-Telegram then you will understand what I am about to say. Her article on Monday, July 5, 2010, dealt with the importance of keeping your prospects as opposed to trading your prospects for good players now. She, being a women, made it a decision between two teams (like Team Edward or Team Jacob Twilight fans) consisting of Team Trade versus Team Triple A. If you don’t understand how the teams correlate to the decision about what to do with your prospects, then just stop reading right now. Just to throw it out there, I am Team Triple A. I think you need to give up prospects for trades, sure, but you don’t need to sell the farm as Jennifer suggests. By the way, did I mention I really don’t like Jennifer Engel? Well, I don’t.
Other Important Rangers Notes (thanks to T.R. Sullivan at texasrangers.com)
Rangers rookie reliever Alexi Ogando is just one inning away from breaking the club mark of most scoreless innings of relief to begin a Major League career. He has 11 scoreless innings. Jeff Zimmerman had 11 2/3 scoreless innings in 1999. ... Ian Kinsler has walked in seven consecutive games, the longest streak of his career and the longest by a Ranger since Josh Hamilton's seven-game streak in 2008. ... Michael Young is one of just six players in the Majors this season to start every game for his team. ... First baseman Justin Smoak is hitless in his last 23 at-bats and has seen his average drop 23 points in his last 12 games.
Monday, July 5, 2010
It's about God, you see
I talk a great deal about God and my faith, but I realized today that I have never explained myself to those of you out there who don’t believe or doubt the existence of a god. This should have been the first blog I wrote when I started writing faith based blogs however many years ago it was. My blog means nothing without an explanation of why I believe what I believe. It’s just words. So, I endeavor today to outline my proofs for God’s existence. I will also touch on God’s essence (what God is). Some of this may come out quite technical, but is because when arguing God’s existence there must be a detachment from feeling and emotions in order to make valid points to any reader. If someone does not believe in God, then they don’t have a feeling or emotion regarding God and are more likely swayed by logic. If it goes over any of ya’ll’s heads, I apologize (I am borrowing some examples to beef up my argument that are a little on the wordy and technical side). Also, know that I do know write this way because I have no feeling for God. I love God with all my heart and with all my soul. But, as mentioned above, I am simply arguing God existence in a form that many will acknowledge. Anyway, let’s get down to this. Here is how I know that there is a God and he should be praised.
The First Proof of God’s Existence: From Change
We observe in everyday life that things change, that is, they make a transition from potentiality to actuality. Now, nothing can reduce itself from potency to act. If something could do this, then it would be able to give itself something that it does not have. This is contrary to the principle of sufficient reason, for every transition from potency to act must have a sufficient reason. Therefore, nothing can change itself. But we see that things do change, therefore these new actualities come from beings that are already in act. Therefore, everything that is changed is changed by another. If everything that changed depended on something else to change it, and there was no first changer then everything that changes would receive its change from nothing. Since everything that changes depends on a prior changer, then if there were no first changer, there would not be a sufficient reason for the existence of change. Thus, if there were no first changer there would be no following changes. But there is change in the world; therefore, there must be a first changer. That first changer is referred to as God, because it is the source of all motion in the world.
The Second Proof of God’s Existence: From Efficient Causality
We see in the world that certain things come into existence that did not exist before. These things could not have given existence to themselves. If something were to be the efficient cause of its own existence then it would have to exist before it exists. Therefore something cannot be the efficient cause of its own existence. Thus, everything that comes into being is brought into being by something else that already exists. Everything that depends on another also depends on the thing that caused that. Thus, if there were an infinite regression of causes (if you considered the infinite regression of causes as a whole, you would see that) they would all be dependent on nothing, which is impossible because of the principle of sufficient reason. Therefore there must be a First Cause. We call that first cause God because it is the source of all existence.
The Third Proof of God’s Existence: From Contingency
We see in the world that some things are dependent on other things, that is, they are contingent. But everything that is contingent needs a cause to put it into being. There cannot be an infinite regression of causes, because of the above-mentioned reasons. Therefore, we must finally reach a being that is not contingent on any other being, and is thus a Necessary Being. This being we call God because He cannot not be.
The Fourth Proof of God’s Existence: From Gradation
We see in the world that there are different degrees, or grades of perfection. But whenever there are grades of something, there must be a highest or supreme grade. Therefore, there must be something that is supreme and infinite perfection. Every being that is finite in perfection received its perfection from a being that did not receive its own perfection, but is perfection itself, and is thus infinite perfection. This everyone calls God because it is the most perfect being conceivable, and is the source of all other perfection.
The Fifth Proof of God’s Existence: From Order
We see in the universe that there is order. Wherever there is order there must be an intelligent being causing it. Therefore, there must be an intelligent being that orders the universe. Since order cannot be the result of chance, it must be intended. But, only an intelligent being can intend something, because only an intelligent being can know what he wants, why he wants it, how he’s going to get it, etc. Therefore, the universe is ordered by an intelligent being. This being is referred to as God because He is the Governor of the world.
God’s Nature
The prime attribute of God must be the very first attribute that is known about him, and it must be the source of the rest of his attributes, in our mind. Now, the very first conclusion about God’s nature is the first one that follows the proofs of God’s existence. This attribute must be that he is not from something else, but that he is from himself. Some object that our first conception of God must be a positive one. This is false because, as St. Thomas Aquinas teaches, our primary way of knowing about God is by way of negation, which is, denying God attributes that belong to creatures.
God is not composed of parts, and thus He is simple. Whatever is composed depends on a composer to bring the parts into unity. But, God is the First Cause of all things and thus cannot be caused by another. Therefore, God is not a composite, and is absolutely simple. Again, composites depend on its parts. If the parts did not exist then the composite would not exist. But God is the Necessary Being and is not dependent on anything, e.g. parts. Therefore, as God is Absolutely Necessary so He is Absolutely Simple. God is not a body, because all bodies are made up of parts. Therefore, God is immaterial. God is also absolutely Immutable. If God could be changed He would have to be changed by another being, and thus He would be dependent on another being. Thus, the First Changer would not be the First Changer, and the principle of contradiction is denied.
God is infinite in His Being. If he were not infinite, His Being could be increased. But, every increase is a change. Indeed, it was shown above that God cannot change. Therefore, an increase in God’s Being is absolutely impossible, which means He is infinite in His Being. Again, whatever has a limit has potentiality, because it is only capable of so much. But, we know that God has no potentiality, because whatever has potentiality can change. Therefore, God is unlimited, and incapable of receiving anything more. God is also Eternal. He doesn’t have a beginning, because He would then need a cause. But the Uncaused Cause cannot be caused. He cannot have an ending, because He is the Necessary Being, who cannot not be. Finally, He cannot change for the above-mentioned reasons.
There can be only one God. It was proved above that God is simple, i.e. not made of parts. But this means that He is identical with His nature, otherwise there would be a distinction in God between His essence and His existence and this would result in Him having parts. But there cannot be two beings with the same essence or nature, which is identical with its nature. There would be nothing to distinguish them. Let me put it in concrete terms: supposing there are two beings with the same essence that is identical with its essence, let’s call the first being ‘A’, and the second being ‘B’, and the essence that they are identical with ‘C’. Now, since ‘A’ is identical with its essence, then ‘A’= ‘C’. And, since ‘B’ is also identical with its essence, then ‘B’= ‘C’. Now if ‘A’= ‘C’ and ‘B’= ‘C’’ then ‘A’=’B’. Thus, the first supposed God is identical with the second supposed God and they cannot be distinct. Therefore there cannot be two Gods.
God is Immense, i.e. has the power to act everywhere, He is intelligent, Good, Holy, Supremely Happy, and Powerful because God is absolutely perfect and all these attributes are perfections.
*special thanks to Seth Brotherton and the Evangelical Catholic Apologetics website
The First Proof of God’s Existence: From Change
We observe in everyday life that things change, that is, they make a transition from potentiality to actuality. Now, nothing can reduce itself from potency to act. If something could do this, then it would be able to give itself something that it does not have. This is contrary to the principle of sufficient reason, for every transition from potency to act must have a sufficient reason. Therefore, nothing can change itself. But we see that things do change, therefore these new actualities come from beings that are already in act. Therefore, everything that is changed is changed by another. If everything that changed depended on something else to change it, and there was no first changer then everything that changes would receive its change from nothing. Since everything that changes depends on a prior changer, then if there were no first changer, there would not be a sufficient reason for the existence of change. Thus, if there were no first changer there would be no following changes. But there is change in the world; therefore, there must be a first changer. That first changer is referred to as God, because it is the source of all motion in the world.
The Second Proof of God’s Existence: From Efficient Causality
We see in the world that certain things come into existence that did not exist before. These things could not have given existence to themselves. If something were to be the efficient cause of its own existence then it would have to exist before it exists. Therefore something cannot be the efficient cause of its own existence. Thus, everything that comes into being is brought into being by something else that already exists. Everything that depends on another also depends on the thing that caused that. Thus, if there were an infinite regression of causes (if you considered the infinite regression of causes as a whole, you would see that) they would all be dependent on nothing, which is impossible because of the principle of sufficient reason. Therefore there must be a First Cause. We call that first cause God because it is the source of all existence.
The Third Proof of God’s Existence: From Contingency
We see in the world that some things are dependent on other things, that is, they are contingent. But everything that is contingent needs a cause to put it into being. There cannot be an infinite regression of causes, because of the above-mentioned reasons. Therefore, we must finally reach a being that is not contingent on any other being, and is thus a Necessary Being. This being we call God because He cannot not be.
The Fourth Proof of God’s Existence: From Gradation
We see in the world that there are different degrees, or grades of perfection. But whenever there are grades of something, there must be a highest or supreme grade. Therefore, there must be something that is supreme and infinite perfection. Every being that is finite in perfection received its perfection from a being that did not receive its own perfection, but is perfection itself, and is thus infinite perfection. This everyone calls God because it is the most perfect being conceivable, and is the source of all other perfection.
The Fifth Proof of God’s Existence: From Order
We see in the universe that there is order. Wherever there is order there must be an intelligent being causing it. Therefore, there must be an intelligent being that orders the universe. Since order cannot be the result of chance, it must be intended. But, only an intelligent being can intend something, because only an intelligent being can know what he wants, why he wants it, how he’s going to get it, etc. Therefore, the universe is ordered by an intelligent being. This being is referred to as God because He is the Governor of the world.
God’s Nature
The prime attribute of God must be the very first attribute that is known about him, and it must be the source of the rest of his attributes, in our mind. Now, the very first conclusion about God’s nature is the first one that follows the proofs of God’s existence. This attribute must be that he is not from something else, but that he is from himself. Some object that our first conception of God must be a positive one. This is false because, as St. Thomas Aquinas teaches, our primary way of knowing about God is by way of negation, which is, denying God attributes that belong to creatures.
God is not composed of parts, and thus He is simple. Whatever is composed depends on a composer to bring the parts into unity. But, God is the First Cause of all things and thus cannot be caused by another. Therefore, God is not a composite, and is absolutely simple. Again, composites depend on its parts. If the parts did not exist then the composite would not exist. But God is the Necessary Being and is not dependent on anything, e.g. parts. Therefore, as God is Absolutely Necessary so He is Absolutely Simple. God is not a body, because all bodies are made up of parts. Therefore, God is immaterial. God is also absolutely Immutable. If God could be changed He would have to be changed by another being, and thus He would be dependent on another being. Thus, the First Changer would not be the First Changer, and the principle of contradiction is denied.
God is infinite in His Being. If he were not infinite, His Being could be increased. But, every increase is a change. Indeed, it was shown above that God cannot change. Therefore, an increase in God’s Being is absolutely impossible, which means He is infinite in His Being. Again, whatever has a limit has potentiality, because it is only capable of so much. But, we know that God has no potentiality, because whatever has potentiality can change. Therefore, God is unlimited, and incapable of receiving anything more. God is also Eternal. He doesn’t have a beginning, because He would then need a cause. But the Uncaused Cause cannot be caused. He cannot have an ending, because He is the Necessary Being, who cannot not be. Finally, He cannot change for the above-mentioned reasons.
There can be only one God. It was proved above that God is simple, i.e. not made of parts. But this means that He is identical with His nature, otherwise there would be a distinction in God between His essence and His existence and this would result in Him having parts. But there cannot be two beings with the same essence or nature, which is identical with its nature. There would be nothing to distinguish them. Let me put it in concrete terms: supposing there are two beings with the same essence that is identical with its essence, let’s call the first being ‘A’, and the second being ‘B’, and the essence that they are identical with ‘C’. Now, since ‘A’ is identical with its essence, then ‘A’= ‘C’. And, since ‘B’ is also identical with its essence, then ‘B’= ‘C’. Now if ‘A’= ‘C’ and ‘B’= ‘C’’ then ‘A’=’B’. Thus, the first supposed God is identical with the second supposed God and they cannot be distinct. Therefore there cannot be two Gods.
God is Immense, i.e. has the power to act everywhere, He is intelligent, Good, Holy, Supremely Happy, and Powerful because God is absolutely perfect and all these attributes are perfections.
*special thanks to Seth Brotherton and the Evangelical Catholic Apologetics website
Thursday, July 1, 2010
Don't Tread on Me
Independence Day, commonly known as the Fourth of July, is the annual celebration of nationhood. It commemorates the passage of the Declaration of Independence by the Continental Congress on July 4, 1776.
The Congress had voted in favor of independence from Great Britain on July 2 but did not actually complete the process of revising the Declaration of Independence, originally drafted by Thomas Jefferson in consultation with fellow committee members John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, Roger Sherman and William Livingston, until two days later. The celebration was initially modeled on that of the king's birthday, which had been marked annually by bell ringing, bonfires, solemn processions and oratory. Such festivals had long played a significant role in the Anglo-American political tradition. Especially in the 17th and 18th centuries, when dynastic and religious controversies racked the British Empire (and much of the rest of Europe), the choice of which anniversaries of historic events were celebrated and which were lamented had clear political meanings. The ritual of toasting the king and other patriot-heroes—or of criticizing them—became an informal kind of political speech, further formalized in mid-18th century when the toasts given at taverns and banquets began to be reprinted in newspapers.
Early Years
In the early stages of the revolutionary movement in the colonies during the 1760s and early 1770s, patriots used such celebrations to proclaim their resistance to Parliament's legislation while lauding the king as the real defender of English liberties. However, the marking of the first days of independence during the summer of 1776 actually took the form in many towns of a mock funeral for the king, whose “death” symbolized the end of monarchy and tyranny and the rebirth of liberty.
During the early years of the republic, Independence Day was commemorated with parades, oratory and toasting, in ceremonies that celebrated the existence of the new nation. These rites played an equally important role in the evolving federal political system. With the rise of informal political parties, they provided venues for leaders and constituents to tie local and national contests to independence and the issues facing the national polity. By the mid-1790s, the two nascent political parties held separate, partisan Independence Day festivals in larger towns. Perhaps for this reason, Independence Day became the model for a series of (often short-lived) celebrations that sometimes contained more explicit political resonance, such as Washington's Birthday and the anniversary of Jefferson's inauguration while he served as president (1801–09).
19th Century Celebrations
The bombastic torrent of words that characterized Independence Day during the 19th century made it both a serious occasion and one sometimes open to ridicule, like the increasingly popular and democratic political process itself in that period. With the growth and diversification of American society, the Fourth of July commemoration became a patriotic tradition which many groups, not just political parties, sought to claim. Abolitionists, women's rights advocates, the temperance movement, and opponents of immigration (nativists) all seized the day and its observance, in the process often declaring that they could not celebrate with the entire community while an un-American perversion of their rights prevailed.
A Modern Holiday
Independence Day is a national holiday marked by patriotic displays. Similar to other summer-themed events, Independence Day celebrations often take place outdoors. Independence Day is a federal holiday, so all non-essential federal institutions (like the postal service and federal courts) are closed on that day. Many politicians make it a point on this day to appear at a public event to praise the nation's heritage, laws, history, society, and people.
Families often celebrate Independence Day by hosting or attending a picnic or barbecue and take advantage of the day off and, in some years, long weekend to gather with relatives. Decorations (e.g., streamers, balloons, and clothing) are generally colored red, white, and blue, the colors of the American flag. Parades often are in the morning, while fireworks displays occur in the evening at such places as parks, fairgrounds, or town squares.
Independence Day fireworks are often accompanied by patriotic songs such as the national anthem "The Star-Spangled Banner", "God Bless America", "America the Beautiful", "My Country, 'Tis of Thee", "This Land Is Your Land", "Stars and Stripes Forever", and, regionally, "Yankee Doodle" in northeastern states and "Dixie" in southern states. Some of the lyrics recall images of the Revolutionary War or the War of 1812.Firework shows are held in many states, and many fireworks are sold for personal use or as an alternative to a public show. Safety concerns have led some states to ban fireworks or limit the sizes and types allowed. Illicit traffic transfers many fireworks from less restrictive states.
While the official observance always falls on July 4th, participation levels may vary according to which day of the week the 4th falls on. If the holiday falls in the middle of the week, some fireworks displays and celebrations may take place during the weekend for convenience, again, varying by region. It remains a potent symbol of national power and of specifically American qualities—even the freedom to stay at home and barbecue.
Unique or historical celebrations
- Held since 1785, the Bristol Fourth of July Parade in Bristol, Rhode Island is the oldest continuous Independence Day celebration in the United States.
- Since 1912, the Rebild Society, a Danish-American friendship organization, has held a July 4th weekend festival that serves as a homecoming for Danish-Americans in the Rebild section of Denmark.
- Since 1916, Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest in Coney Island, Brooklyn, New York City supposedly started as a way to settle a dispute among four immigrants as to who was the most patriotic.
- Since 1959, the International Freedom Festival is jointly held in Detroit, Michigan and Windsor, Ontario during the last week of June each year as a mutual celebration of Independence Day and Canada Day (July 1). It culminates in a large fireworks display over the Detroit River.
- Numerous major and minor league baseball games are played on Independence Day.
- The famous Macy's fireworks display usually held over the East River in New York City has been televised nationwide on NBC since 1976. In 2009, the fireworks display was returned to the Hudson River for the first time since 2000 to commemorate the 400th anniversary of Henry Hudson's exploration of that river.
- Since 1970, the annual 10 kilometer Peachtree Road Race is held in Atlanta, Georgia.
- The Boston Pops Orchestra has hosted music and fireworks shows over the Charles River Esplanade called the "Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular" annually since 1973. The event has been broadcast nationally since 2003 on CBS.
- On the Capitol lawn in Washington, D.C., “A Capitol Fourth,” a free concert, precedes the fireworks and attracts over half a million people annually.
The Congress had voted in favor of independence from Great Britain on July 2 but did not actually complete the process of revising the Declaration of Independence, originally drafted by Thomas Jefferson in consultation with fellow committee members John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, Roger Sherman and William Livingston, until two days later. The celebration was initially modeled on that of the king's birthday, which had been marked annually by bell ringing, bonfires, solemn processions and oratory. Such festivals had long played a significant role in the Anglo-American political tradition. Especially in the 17th and 18th centuries, when dynastic and religious controversies racked the British Empire (and much of the rest of Europe), the choice of which anniversaries of historic events were celebrated and which were lamented had clear political meanings. The ritual of toasting the king and other patriot-heroes—or of criticizing them—became an informal kind of political speech, further formalized in mid-18th century when the toasts given at taverns and banquets began to be reprinted in newspapers.
Early Years
In the early stages of the revolutionary movement in the colonies during the 1760s and early 1770s, patriots used such celebrations to proclaim their resistance to Parliament's legislation while lauding the king as the real defender of English liberties. However, the marking of the first days of independence during the summer of 1776 actually took the form in many towns of a mock funeral for the king, whose “death” symbolized the end of monarchy and tyranny and the rebirth of liberty.
During the early years of the republic, Independence Day was commemorated with parades, oratory and toasting, in ceremonies that celebrated the existence of the new nation. These rites played an equally important role in the evolving federal political system. With the rise of informal political parties, they provided venues for leaders and constituents to tie local and national contests to independence and the issues facing the national polity. By the mid-1790s, the two nascent political parties held separate, partisan Independence Day festivals in larger towns. Perhaps for this reason, Independence Day became the model for a series of (often short-lived) celebrations that sometimes contained more explicit political resonance, such as Washington's Birthday and the anniversary of Jefferson's inauguration while he served as president (1801–09).
19th Century Celebrations
The bombastic torrent of words that characterized Independence Day during the 19th century made it both a serious occasion and one sometimes open to ridicule, like the increasingly popular and democratic political process itself in that period. With the growth and diversification of American society, the Fourth of July commemoration became a patriotic tradition which many groups, not just political parties, sought to claim. Abolitionists, women's rights advocates, the temperance movement, and opponents of immigration (nativists) all seized the day and its observance, in the process often declaring that they could not celebrate with the entire community while an un-American perversion of their rights prevailed.
A Modern Holiday
Independence Day is a national holiday marked by patriotic displays. Similar to other summer-themed events, Independence Day celebrations often take place outdoors. Independence Day is a federal holiday, so all non-essential federal institutions (like the postal service and federal courts) are closed on that day. Many politicians make it a point on this day to appear at a public event to praise the nation's heritage, laws, history, society, and people.
Families often celebrate Independence Day by hosting or attending a picnic or barbecue and take advantage of the day off and, in some years, long weekend to gather with relatives. Decorations (e.g., streamers, balloons, and clothing) are generally colored red, white, and blue, the colors of the American flag. Parades often are in the morning, while fireworks displays occur in the evening at such places as parks, fairgrounds, or town squares.
Independence Day fireworks are often accompanied by patriotic songs such as the national anthem "The Star-Spangled Banner", "God Bless America", "America the Beautiful", "My Country, 'Tis of Thee", "This Land Is Your Land", "Stars and Stripes Forever", and, regionally, "Yankee Doodle" in northeastern states and "Dixie" in southern states. Some of the lyrics recall images of the Revolutionary War or the War of 1812.Firework shows are held in many states, and many fireworks are sold for personal use or as an alternative to a public show. Safety concerns have led some states to ban fireworks or limit the sizes and types allowed. Illicit traffic transfers many fireworks from less restrictive states.
While the official observance always falls on July 4th, participation levels may vary according to which day of the week the 4th falls on. If the holiday falls in the middle of the week, some fireworks displays and celebrations may take place during the weekend for convenience, again, varying by region. It remains a potent symbol of national power and of specifically American qualities—even the freedom to stay at home and barbecue.
Unique or historical celebrations
- Held since 1785, the Bristol Fourth of July Parade in Bristol, Rhode Island is the oldest continuous Independence Day celebration in the United States.
- Since 1912, the Rebild Society, a Danish-American friendship organization, has held a July 4th weekend festival that serves as a homecoming for Danish-Americans in the Rebild section of Denmark.
- Since 1916, Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest in Coney Island, Brooklyn, New York City supposedly started as a way to settle a dispute among four immigrants as to who was the most patriotic.
- Since 1959, the International Freedom Festival is jointly held in Detroit, Michigan and Windsor, Ontario during the last week of June each year as a mutual celebration of Independence Day and Canada Day (July 1). It culminates in a large fireworks display over the Detroit River.
- Numerous major and minor league baseball games are played on Independence Day.
- The famous Macy's fireworks display usually held over the East River in New York City has been televised nationwide on NBC since 1976. In 2009, the fireworks display was returned to the Hudson River for the first time since 2000 to commemorate the 400th anniversary of Henry Hudson's exploration of that river.
- Since 1970, the annual 10 kilometer Peachtree Road Race is held in Atlanta, Georgia.
- The Boston Pops Orchestra has hosted music and fireworks shows over the Charles River Esplanade called the "Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular" annually since 1973. The event has been broadcast nationally since 2003 on CBS.
- On the Capitol lawn in Washington, D.C., “A Capitol Fourth,” a free concert, precedes the fireworks and attracts over half a million people annually.
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Cleanse yourself in the waters of Lake Minnetonka...
It’s summer and with that, at least in Texas, coming sweltering temperatures and a desire to immerse yourself in any available liquid mass. As we’ve grown older and more sophisticated, this usually means a swimming pool or a lake (sometimes an ocean). But I sometimes think back to the good old days of summer camp. Summer camp is where the swimming hole is king. Swimming holes are a staple of summertime Americana, but are so few and far between, it is often difficult to know where you can search one out. Well, as I was reading the news on Yahoo the other day, I came across an article listing the best American swimming holes. Described as often-secluded natural pools that are the perfect antidote to crowded pools with zinc-covered teenage lifeguards or water parks with $8 hot dogs, the swimming hole is where you really should be during the peak of summer heat. And they offer a dose of not-yet-forgotten American nostalgia, where sunny days are measured by best friends and belly flops. So grab your swimsuit, a towel, and a pair of water shoes, and jump in at some of our favorite swimming holes. Last one in’s a rotten egg!
Little River Canyon - Alabama
In northeastern Alabama, the Little River snakes across the top of Lookout Mountain before plummeting into the 12-mile-long Little River Canyon. Bordered by broad-faced cliffs, with large blocks of sandstone jutting from the water, this canyon—at 600 feet, the deepest this side of the Mississippi—is home to a handful of perfect swimming holes. Just downstream from the Alabama Highway 35 bridge, follow the short paved path to the bottom of Little River Falls for an easy-access dunk when water levels are low. (High water means dangerous currents.) Or start at Eberhart Point and hike 0.75 miles to the canyon floor to Hippy Hole, where rope swings dangle from trees and a series of cliffs serve as springboards for daredevils.
Havasu Falls - Supai, Ariz.
There’s off the beaten path. And then there’s Havasu Falls—located a mile and a half outside the Havasupai Indian village of Supai, on the bottom of the Grand Canyon. The only way to get here is to charter a helicopter, hike a steep 10 miles, or hire a pack animal. (The U.S. Post Office still uses mules to make mail deliveries to the village.) And you’ll need a permit ($20). But boy, is it worth it. A torrent of water streams across the sunburnt rock face of the Grand Canyon’s south rim, collecting in a pool 100 feet below. The water, so turquoise it looks like it’s on loan from the Caribbean, stays about 72 degrees year-round and is perfect for lazy floating or practicing your belly flop. And with such a schlep to get here, you don’t have to fight the crowds for a prime sunning spot. Yeah, it’s pretty much the best swimming hole ever.
Carlon Falls - Yosemite National Park
En route to Hetch Hetchy, pull off winding Evergreen Road at the South Fork of the Tuolumne River for a mostly flat, two-mile hike to this rare year-round waterfall. Bordered by towering ponderosa pines, with meadows of purple lupine and small bright sunflowers nearby, this secret swimming hole is rarely visited by Yosemite pilgrims. The 35-foot falls cascades over wide granite ledges into a boulder-strewn pool, where, most of the time, the birds in the canopy and the whoosh of rushing water are the only other sounds you’ll hear. Exactly how a good swimming hole should be.
Redfish Lake - Stanley, Idaho
In an area where salmon outnumber people, Redfish Lake, outside Stanley (population: 106), is a jaw-dropping example of why you explore the backcountry. Legend has it, there were once so many sockeye salmon spawning in the lake that it appeared red. Hence the name. Now it’s better known for its vast bird population, including peregrine falcons and songbirds like yellow-flecked Townsend’s warblers and ruby-crowned kinglets. Laze on the south-shore beach for staggering views of the snowcapped Sawtooth Range reflected in the pristine waters. Once you’ve been here, the words “untouched wilderness” will have a whole new meaning.
Echo Lake - Mount Desert Island, Maine
On Mount Desert Island, fingerlike fjords carved by glaciers define the rugged salt-licked coastline. But in the southwestern interior, the beach at Echo Lake (about 20 minutes from Bar Harbor) slopes gently into deep blue fresh water. At its deepest, the placid lake is only 66 feet. And while it’s warmer than the shockingly cold northern Atlantic, temperatures rarely get above 55 degrees. We recommend working up a sweat on the Beech Mountain hiking trails, with bluffs and overlooks that perfectly frame the lake’s crescent-shaped gravel beach, before taking the polar bear plunge. Then hop back into town on the free Island Explorer Shuttle Bus, which makes hourly runs between the lake and the village green.
Johnson’s Shut-Ins - Reynolds County, Mo.
The East Fork of the Black River churns through a furrowed channel of rock at Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park in the Ozark Mountains. The “shut-ins” are areas where the river is blocked by smooth volcanic stone (formed eons ago) strewn throughout the stream, creating a series of small pools. Going from eddy to eddy can be a wet-and-wild obstacle course through cascading streams, deep pools, and shallow pockets. But don’t expect to have it to yourself. With a quarter-mile paved walkway, and located just two hours from St. Louis, Johnson’s Shut-Ins is Missouri’s unofficial state water park.
Peekamoose Blue Hole - Sundown, N.Y.
If this place doesn’t remind you of old Mountain Dew ads, you’re probably part of the Twilight generation. You know the ones—groups of beautiful young people playing in the summer sun, jumping into water, popping open a can of the electric yellow soda, while a singer reminds us that “being cool is a state of mind.” In the middle of a Catskills forest, Rondout Creek pours through a rock gap to create a deep swimming hole worthy of such rowdy camaraderie. Think jackknifes and cannonballs. The I-live-for-summer rope swing dangles over the deepest end and practically begs to be used. To find the Peekamoose Blue Hole (and your inner Brad Pitt), follow New York Route 28A to West Shoken.
Sliding Rock - Brevard, N.C.
Think of this angled rock face as nature’s original waterslide. Smoothed by centuries of flowing water, the 60-foot boulder shoots bathers into the frigid Carolina mountain waters like they have buttered backsides. The well-known playground off Highway 276 in the heart of the Pisgah National Forest attracts everyone from local teenagers and young families to Blue Ridge Parkway road-trippers who line up to slide one-by-one into the cool 50-degree stream from Memorial Day to Labor Day. In the height of summer, lifeguards supervise the action. A word to the wise: smooth doesn’t mean perfectly flat. It is a rock, after all. Throw on an old pair of shorts to keep from snagging your swimsuit.
Cummins Falls - Cookeville, Tenn.
About halfway between Nashville and Knoxville, Cummins Falls cascades 50 feet over wide stair-stepped rocks into a deep cold-water pool. It’s a hard-earned scramble to the bottom that involves hiking to the overlook, wading across the ankle-deep stream, climbing up to the ridge, and using a rope guide to walk yourself down to the water. This is not a swimming hole for lightweights. Translation: expect a younger crowd. But if you’re agile (and sure-footed), the descent into the cavernous pool is worth the effort.
The Blue Hole - Wimberley, Texas
In Texas, swimming holes are synonymous with summer. And the Blue Hole in Wimberley is probably the quintessential example. If Hollywood wanted to cast a swimming hole, it would take its cues from this one. Seriously, I’ve been there, and it is gorgeous! Grassy banks offer prime picnic spots. Old-growth bald cypresses dot the water, casting welcome shade from the blazing Texas sun. The cool spring-fed pool hosts a veritable parade of tubers on the weekends, when Austinites flock to the hole for an afternoon of lazy floating. It really gets jammed up with all the city folk coming out there, so I suggest going during the week. There’s less surface traffic, less kids, and less inhibitions, if you know what I mean. Up for a little more action? The three rope swings should do it. Do be mindful of your ability to actually use a rope swing (I am not that talented).
So, wherever you find yourself across this great nation this summer, look for one of these or just any swimming hole for a place to cool off. The best way to find out about these hidden gems…ask the locals. I can’t tell you how many times I have come across some awesome out-of-the-way finds just by talking to the girl who works the counter at the filling station. Stay cool ya’ll (get it, cool because of the water).
Little River Canyon - Alabama
In northeastern Alabama, the Little River snakes across the top of Lookout Mountain before plummeting into the 12-mile-long Little River Canyon. Bordered by broad-faced cliffs, with large blocks of sandstone jutting from the water, this canyon—at 600 feet, the deepest this side of the Mississippi—is home to a handful of perfect swimming holes. Just downstream from the Alabama Highway 35 bridge, follow the short paved path to the bottom of Little River Falls for an easy-access dunk when water levels are low. (High water means dangerous currents.) Or start at Eberhart Point and hike 0.75 miles to the canyon floor to Hippy Hole, where rope swings dangle from trees and a series of cliffs serve as springboards for daredevils.
Havasu Falls - Supai, Ariz.
There’s off the beaten path. And then there’s Havasu Falls—located a mile and a half outside the Havasupai Indian village of Supai, on the bottom of the Grand Canyon. The only way to get here is to charter a helicopter, hike a steep 10 miles, or hire a pack animal. (The U.S. Post Office still uses mules to make mail deliveries to the village.) And you’ll need a permit ($20). But boy, is it worth it. A torrent of water streams across the sunburnt rock face of the Grand Canyon’s south rim, collecting in a pool 100 feet below. The water, so turquoise it looks like it’s on loan from the Caribbean, stays about 72 degrees year-round and is perfect for lazy floating or practicing your belly flop. And with such a schlep to get here, you don’t have to fight the crowds for a prime sunning spot. Yeah, it’s pretty much the best swimming hole ever.
Carlon Falls - Yosemite National Park
En route to Hetch Hetchy, pull off winding Evergreen Road at the South Fork of the Tuolumne River for a mostly flat, two-mile hike to this rare year-round waterfall. Bordered by towering ponderosa pines, with meadows of purple lupine and small bright sunflowers nearby, this secret swimming hole is rarely visited by Yosemite pilgrims. The 35-foot falls cascades over wide granite ledges into a boulder-strewn pool, where, most of the time, the birds in the canopy and the whoosh of rushing water are the only other sounds you’ll hear. Exactly how a good swimming hole should be.
Redfish Lake - Stanley, Idaho
In an area where salmon outnumber people, Redfish Lake, outside Stanley (population: 106), is a jaw-dropping example of why you explore the backcountry. Legend has it, there were once so many sockeye salmon spawning in the lake that it appeared red. Hence the name. Now it’s better known for its vast bird population, including peregrine falcons and songbirds like yellow-flecked Townsend’s warblers and ruby-crowned kinglets. Laze on the south-shore beach for staggering views of the snowcapped Sawtooth Range reflected in the pristine waters. Once you’ve been here, the words “untouched wilderness” will have a whole new meaning.
Echo Lake - Mount Desert Island, Maine
On Mount Desert Island, fingerlike fjords carved by glaciers define the rugged salt-licked coastline. But in the southwestern interior, the beach at Echo Lake (about 20 minutes from Bar Harbor) slopes gently into deep blue fresh water. At its deepest, the placid lake is only 66 feet. And while it’s warmer than the shockingly cold northern Atlantic, temperatures rarely get above 55 degrees. We recommend working up a sweat on the Beech Mountain hiking trails, with bluffs and overlooks that perfectly frame the lake’s crescent-shaped gravel beach, before taking the polar bear plunge. Then hop back into town on the free Island Explorer Shuttle Bus, which makes hourly runs between the lake and the village green.
Johnson’s Shut-Ins - Reynolds County, Mo.
The East Fork of the Black River churns through a furrowed channel of rock at Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park in the Ozark Mountains. The “shut-ins” are areas where the river is blocked by smooth volcanic stone (formed eons ago) strewn throughout the stream, creating a series of small pools. Going from eddy to eddy can be a wet-and-wild obstacle course through cascading streams, deep pools, and shallow pockets. But don’t expect to have it to yourself. With a quarter-mile paved walkway, and located just two hours from St. Louis, Johnson’s Shut-Ins is Missouri’s unofficial state water park.
Peekamoose Blue Hole - Sundown, N.Y.
If this place doesn’t remind you of old Mountain Dew ads, you’re probably part of the Twilight generation. You know the ones—groups of beautiful young people playing in the summer sun, jumping into water, popping open a can of the electric yellow soda, while a singer reminds us that “being cool is a state of mind.” In the middle of a Catskills forest, Rondout Creek pours through a rock gap to create a deep swimming hole worthy of such rowdy camaraderie. Think jackknifes and cannonballs. The I-live-for-summer rope swing dangles over the deepest end and practically begs to be used. To find the Peekamoose Blue Hole (and your inner Brad Pitt), follow New York Route 28A to West Shoken.
Sliding Rock - Brevard, N.C.
Think of this angled rock face as nature’s original waterslide. Smoothed by centuries of flowing water, the 60-foot boulder shoots bathers into the frigid Carolina mountain waters like they have buttered backsides. The well-known playground off Highway 276 in the heart of the Pisgah National Forest attracts everyone from local teenagers and young families to Blue Ridge Parkway road-trippers who line up to slide one-by-one into the cool 50-degree stream from Memorial Day to Labor Day. In the height of summer, lifeguards supervise the action. A word to the wise: smooth doesn’t mean perfectly flat. It is a rock, after all. Throw on an old pair of shorts to keep from snagging your swimsuit.
Cummins Falls - Cookeville, Tenn.
About halfway between Nashville and Knoxville, Cummins Falls cascades 50 feet over wide stair-stepped rocks into a deep cold-water pool. It’s a hard-earned scramble to the bottom that involves hiking to the overlook, wading across the ankle-deep stream, climbing up to the ridge, and using a rope guide to walk yourself down to the water. This is not a swimming hole for lightweights. Translation: expect a younger crowd. But if you’re agile (and sure-footed), the descent into the cavernous pool is worth the effort.
The Blue Hole - Wimberley, Texas
In Texas, swimming holes are synonymous with summer. And the Blue Hole in Wimberley is probably the quintessential example. If Hollywood wanted to cast a swimming hole, it would take its cues from this one. Seriously, I’ve been there, and it is gorgeous! Grassy banks offer prime picnic spots. Old-growth bald cypresses dot the water, casting welcome shade from the blazing Texas sun. The cool spring-fed pool hosts a veritable parade of tubers on the weekends, when Austinites flock to the hole for an afternoon of lazy floating. It really gets jammed up with all the city folk coming out there, so I suggest going during the week. There’s less surface traffic, less kids, and less inhibitions, if you know what I mean. Up for a little more action? The three rope swings should do it. Do be mindful of your ability to actually use a rope swing (I am not that talented).
So, wherever you find yourself across this great nation this summer, look for one of these or just any swimming hole for a place to cool off. The best way to find out about these hidden gems…ask the locals. I can’t tell you how many times I have come across some awesome out-of-the-way finds just by talking to the girl who works the counter at the filling station. Stay cool ya’ll (get it, cool because of the water).
Sunday, June 27, 2010
The healing power of prayer...more than you think
I received a question from a friend who is not Catholic a week or so back concerning prayer and healing. They said they had a friend who was Catholic say they were going to a healing Mass for an ill relative and they wanted to know more about the idea of a service for healing. The underlying tone there was more of questioning whether we (Catholics) believe such a thing works. This person is Christian and from what I remember attends church regularly, so they weren’t questioning the healing power of God per se, but they did seem to think it was quite archaic to believe that this healing power could be summoned up through a religious service (especially a Catholic one). Even though I didn’t call them out on the apparent undertones, I did feel a little uneasy having to field a question were the person had already made up their mind about the answer. Just so ya’ll know, I was right, as soon as I had given an answer, he blasted back with some excuse my Catholic logic was wrong (which prompted an ill tempered religious conversation that I’d like to forget). It got me thinking about things and I did some research and decided I needed to unload my new knowledge on the world to see what ya’ll think.
Certainly the tradition or practice of prayer for healing is rooted in the gospel and is as old as the Catholic Church. The Gospels contain numerous stories of Jesus responding to the prayers of the sick or petitions offered on their behalf. And Mark tells us how the disciples “drove out many demons, and they anointed with oil many who were sick and cured them” (6:13). Further, the Letter of James bids us, “Is anyone among you sick? He should summon the presbyters of the church, and they should pray over him and anoint [him] with oil in the name of the Lord, and the prayer of faith will save the sick person, and the Lord will raise him up. If he has committed any sins, he will be forgiven” (5:14-15). You see how I put the biblical verses out there right away. Through all these centuries Christians have prayed for the sick. Ministers of the Church have visited and prayed for and with the sick. Those are for my non-Catholic friends who want proof in The Book before they hear the proof in the history. Those are just two passages that I found supporting praying for and anointing the sick. There are more, but I had promised myself I would work harder to keep these shorter.
Does God answer prayers for healing? You can tour the shrines of the world like Lourdes and Padua and find testimonials of healing in answer to prayers. In the renewal of Vatican II emphasis was again placed on the healing aspects of the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick. Instead of calling the sacrament Extreme Unction, viewing it as a prayer for those on the verge of death, the ritual speaks of the anointing of the sick and the pastoral care of the sick. But let us note that even those who receive or received miraculous healings eventually succumb to sickness and death…even those who were healed by Jesus. There is a provisional aspect to every cure. This knowledge is inherent in Catholic prayer, where it is seen time and time again that we pray for a peaceful death. Anointing of the Sick can serve to help in healing, but there is no prayer to prevent death, just like there are no scientific preventions for death.
The charismatic movement in these later years has also emphasized prayers for healing and healing services among many Christians, among them many Catholics. It is in that context we can understand healing Masses…Masses dedicated to prayers and petitions for the sick. In some cases the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick is conferred during these Masses. Not all those who attend such Masses or pray for healing are physically cured or made whole. But then, not everyone who goes on pilgrimage to Lourdes is miraculously cured. Miracle cures are by their nature exceptional. But note that those who fail to obtain physical cures at Lourdes often speak of a kind of spiritual healing, a new peace and acceptance. Surely there is a grace in the prayers and support of those who gather to pray with and for the sick. The 17th Volume (Supplement) of the New Catholic Encyclopedia, in speaking of Christian healing, comments, “Ministers and theologians of Christian healing continue to debate the reasons some persons are healed, some are only improved and some do not respond at all to prayers for healing” (McNutt, 1974, ch. 18).
We do know that in the Gospels Christ responded to, and often demanded, the faith of people asking for healing. We also know that we cannot view prayer as granting us an entitlement of some kind. Any properly ordered prayer contains, at least implicitly, the petition of the Lord’s Prayer, “thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven.” Prayers aren’t magical formulas, as if you could say the right words often enough and get what you want. Perhaps a person’s eternal welfare is better being served by enduring sickness. Sickness has its own graces, after all. It teaches us to become truly dependent on God. It helps detach us from material things, prepares us to find our hope in God. It is in sickness that we learn humility and, in the goodness of those who serve us, begin to appreciate the love and compassion of Christ. Sickness also can make us stop and rethink our goals. It is in the experience of sickness that many have found God and set their feet on the way to holiness.
Certainly the tradition or practice of prayer for healing is rooted in the gospel and is as old as the Catholic Church. The Gospels contain numerous stories of Jesus responding to the prayers of the sick or petitions offered on their behalf. And Mark tells us how the disciples “drove out many demons, and they anointed with oil many who were sick and cured them” (6:13). Further, the Letter of James bids us, “Is anyone among you sick? He should summon the presbyters of the church, and they should pray over him and anoint [him] with oil in the name of the Lord, and the prayer of faith will save the sick person, and the Lord will raise him up. If he has committed any sins, he will be forgiven” (5:14-15). You see how I put the biblical verses out there right away. Through all these centuries Christians have prayed for the sick. Ministers of the Church have visited and prayed for and with the sick. Those are for my non-Catholic friends who want proof in The Book before they hear the proof in the history. Those are just two passages that I found supporting praying for and anointing the sick. There are more, but I had promised myself I would work harder to keep these shorter.
Does God answer prayers for healing? You can tour the shrines of the world like Lourdes and Padua and find testimonials of healing in answer to prayers. In the renewal of Vatican II emphasis was again placed on the healing aspects of the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick. Instead of calling the sacrament Extreme Unction, viewing it as a prayer for those on the verge of death, the ritual speaks of the anointing of the sick and the pastoral care of the sick. But let us note that even those who receive or received miraculous healings eventually succumb to sickness and death…even those who were healed by Jesus. There is a provisional aspect to every cure. This knowledge is inherent in Catholic prayer, where it is seen time and time again that we pray for a peaceful death. Anointing of the Sick can serve to help in healing, but there is no prayer to prevent death, just like there are no scientific preventions for death.
The charismatic movement in these later years has also emphasized prayers for healing and healing services among many Christians, among them many Catholics. It is in that context we can understand healing Masses…Masses dedicated to prayers and petitions for the sick. In some cases the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick is conferred during these Masses. Not all those who attend such Masses or pray for healing are physically cured or made whole. But then, not everyone who goes on pilgrimage to Lourdes is miraculously cured. Miracle cures are by their nature exceptional. But note that those who fail to obtain physical cures at Lourdes often speak of a kind of spiritual healing, a new peace and acceptance. Surely there is a grace in the prayers and support of those who gather to pray with and for the sick. The 17th Volume (Supplement) of the New Catholic Encyclopedia, in speaking of Christian healing, comments, “Ministers and theologians of Christian healing continue to debate the reasons some persons are healed, some are only improved and some do not respond at all to prayers for healing” (McNutt, 1974, ch. 18).
We do know that in the Gospels Christ responded to, and often demanded, the faith of people asking for healing. We also know that we cannot view prayer as granting us an entitlement of some kind. Any properly ordered prayer contains, at least implicitly, the petition of the Lord’s Prayer, “thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven.” Prayers aren’t magical formulas, as if you could say the right words often enough and get what you want. Perhaps a person’s eternal welfare is better being served by enduring sickness. Sickness has its own graces, after all. It teaches us to become truly dependent on God. It helps detach us from material things, prepares us to find our hope in God. It is in sickness that we learn humility and, in the goodness of those who serve us, begin to appreciate the love and compassion of Christ. Sickness also can make us stop and rethink our goals. It is in the experience of sickness that many have found God and set their feet on the way to holiness.
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