A Season of Hope; a Season of Change

Last night I joined millions across America in listening/watching Barak Obama accept the nomination for the Presidency at the Democratic National Convention. This morning, I am reflecting on his speech, and the implications for the coming months, and the coming four years.

What I heard last night (I listened on www.npr.org from my office at RC Highland Park) was reminiscent of Kennedy's "ask not what your country can do for you; ask what you can do for your country." As I was not present at Kennedy's speech (for obvious reasons!), I can only
infer what I remember from my High School history classes. Yet I do know that Obama was calling out my generation (and all the generations, really) to take ownership in the direction of our nation.

John Mayer has a song "Waiting on the World to Change." In it, he implies that our generation has been biding its time, waiting for the powers that be to retire or move on, so that we can take charge and make change. It is a song I love, yet I struggle with what he is saying. Are we incapable of creating real change because the powers that be are just too strong? Or are we lazy and unmotivated? Whichever it is, there is no excuse, and Obama called us out on that last night.

I appreciated his renewed vigor- he held no punches on McCain. I loved his soaring oratorical skills (which, let's face it, are amazing!). By the end of the 45 minutes, I had tears in my eyes. For the first time in my adult life, I felt a real sense of pride in my country.

Yes, we can!

Check out these sites. Get informed. Get involved.
www.moveon.org
www.barackobama.com

The Beginning

It's 6:00 on Monday evening, and my last week at the Reformed Church of Highland Park has begun. I have lots of reflections on the past two years, and those will all come out in due course. However, the purpose of this blog is to keep people updated on my PRESENT and my journey into the FUTURE.
Next Monday, I will officially start my new position in Long Branch, exploring ministry possibilities in the town for the classis of New Brunswick. I am extremely excited, but also nervous. This is a huge undertaking and an incredible challenge I will be facing during my last year of Seminary. It will be a learning experience for sure!
So, this is just a start off point. My goal is to post once a week- more or less. If I begin to slack off on my commitment, you have my permission to yell at me!

p.s. my Maternal Grandfather had a heart attack yesterday. I ask for prayers for him and our family as we wait to see what happens next.