Half a Truth is Better than No Politics

On Road Closures

2011-10-21T09:01:00.000-07:00

The road in front of the church is common route for folks to bypass the the traffic on the more major routes through town. While the portion of the road immediately in front of the church is open, the road past the church is being dug up for water main repair.

The construction workers have put up very visible signs to indicate there is construction and that the road beyond the church is closed.

From my desk, I look out onto the road mid-way between the "road closed" sign, and the construction. It is actually, the precise point at which a driver realizes that the sign they just drove pass was indeed accurate and the road beyond the church is impassable due to large trenches and construction vehicles.

This has been the situation for about 2 months now, and not a day goes by where a good number of drivers who believe they are the exception have a 'teachable moment' and are forced to turn around and retreat.

This action all goes down right outside my window.

I write this post as a small pack of BMW's admit defeat and are considering how to turn three cars around in one driveway.

Funny.

Peace,

-C.D. Clements

On public speaking

2011-08-07T09:16:00.000-07:00

I am developing a new theory on public speaking.

I hypothesize that the better someone becomes at public speaking, the less people feel the need to encourage this individual after an incident of public speaking.

In short: the less people tell you how well you did, the better your presentation actually was.

According to my new theory, I feel today's sermon went medium well.

Nice.

Peace,

-C.D. Clements

On Bank Service

2011-06-17T13:49:00.001-07:00

Today I was at TD to submit some funds from our youth’s 30 Hour Famine event. There was a good amount of paper work, as well as much small change, and so I was with the teller for about 20 min doing deposit-type stuff.

This gave me time to notice that more than half of clients were asked if they had any weekend plans.

When he initially asked about my upcoming weekend, I had thought my teller had a keen interest in my life . [Oh boy!]

Then I discovered I was nothing but a means toward a happy manager and a good customer relations grade. [Oh boy…]

What a roller coaster of emotion.

-C.D. Clements

On work

2011-06-10T12:02:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I waste time at work and will probably need to stay late to get it all done.

http://somuchepicwin.com/

http://grooveshark.com/s/Billy+Comes+Home/3IdFEp?src=5

-C.D. Clements

On Stoners

2011-04-01T21:12:00.001-07:00

Three apartments down from me live a bunch of stoners. And they have a patio. When Nyssa and I had first moved in for the summer, they could often be heard out on the patio until the morning hours yelling about stuff and carrying on about Pink Floyd and how stoned they once got. (No word of a lie; I know it seems stereotypical, but it is true)

It seems they take a winter sabbatical starting in November (presumably to brush up on lesser known Floyd albums) but with the warmer spring temperatures, I noticed them today back on the porch.

My senior pastors tells me I should make friends with them and tell them about Jesus. I think Jesus would draw the line at 12:00am shouting.

Anyway, all this to say... wish me luck this summer.

Peace,

-C.D. Clements

On good advice

2011-03-09T07:55:00.000-08:00

In small towns or communities, remember not to talk about others in public places. Even if it is mostly business.

Although my most recent experience of this rule is not as bad as the time I made fun of the women's volleyball team while they were at the adjacent table.

Peace,

-C. D. Clements

On FIGHT CLAP

2011-02-09T09:30:00.001-08:00

I have recently become aware of a new underground movement amongst Tyndale Alumni [between class of 2004 - 2006]. It is called FIGHT CLAP. In careful research, I have discovered the following references and descriptions to FIGHT CLAP:

Here at FIGHT CLAP we may not have it all figured out. We may not have it all together. We may not even know what ‘it’ is. But this is a safe place to explore FIGHT CLAP. It’s a safe place to get to know FIGHT CLAP. It’s a safe place to come at things from the side, to figure out things as you go along. And the beauty of it is in the way we’re trying to do this together. Well, sometimes it’s beautiful. Other times? Not so much. But it’s always real. And we like that .
FIGHT CLAP represents over 320 nonprofit providers of long-term care and housing services for 65,000 elderly residents across Pennsylvania. FIGHT CLAP is committed to helping its members provide quality care efficiently and effectively for the individuals and families they serve. In an age of impersonal care, FIGHT CLAP members put people before profits.
In the criminal justice system, clapping based offences are considered especially heinous. In New York City, the dedicated detectives who investigate these vicious felonies are members of an elite squad known as FIGHT CLAP. These are their stories.
These are the voyages of the starship FIGHT CLAP. It's continuing mission, to FIGHT strange new CLAPs. To seek out new FIGHTS and new CLAPS. To FIGHT CLAP where no one has FIGHT CLAPPED before.
When I find myself in times of trouble, FIGHT CLAP comes to me, speaking words of wisdom, let it be. And in my hour of darkness FIGHT CLAP is right in front of me, speaking words of wisdom, let it be.

Yours in uncovering the real truth behind FIGHT CLAP,

-C.D. Clements

On Offices /size

2011-01-03T10:38:00.000-08:00

My friend Pat has a new job and a new office. He reports having a bigger office than mine. I'll not repeat the saying about sizes and functions. But I will challenge Pat to beat the ministry potential of this office layout:

-C.D. Clements

On Spam

2010-12-01T17:28:00.000-08:00

My recent post which compares Fergus & Toronto was met with much enthusiasm from the spamming community. (Thank you all... you do flatter too much.)

However I'd like to point out an unhelpful misunderstanding in one of my supportive spammer's comments.

Ray is quoted as:

It should be pointed out that the bible (which witnesses to Jesus) is a book. And we would not have the bible, let alone the bible in English, if it were not for Christian scholars.

I feel this is one good reason, among many, why we shouldn't act rashly to discard smart people & their books.

-C.D. Clements

On Youth Ministry & Theology

2010-11-19T10:40:00.000-08:00

On Thursday afternoons there is a group of students from the church who gather for scripture study and dinner together. We have been moving our way through Romans, which is quite a book for a youth study. (!)

One gem I discovered within the last two months is to incorporate a paragraph or two from an "accessible" writer within the study. This gives students the a fresh voice which is neither Romans, nor myself; two voices which seem to tire out their thought processes.

Apart from the usual suspects such as C.S. Lewis, two authors which write in a way that the students understand and resonate with are Wayne Grudem & Richard J. Mouw. (Note: I work in a reformed church) In particular, the students love Mouw's Calvinism in the Las Vegas Airport.

Turns out I do too.

That's all for now!

-C.D. Clements

10 ways in which Fergus and Toronto differ from each other

2010-08-30T15:49:00.000-07:00

Nyssa and I have moved to Fergus Ontario three weeks ago. Here are the 10 most notable ways in which Fergus and Toronto differ from each other.

1. Toronto has very few youth jobs which pay a living wage.

2. Fergus has no bike racks anywhere.

3. But in Fergus people don't steal bikes so it doesn't seem to be a problem.

4. Toronto has many well stocked Blockbuster outlets

5. Fergus has an independent rental outlet which will let you exchange, and also refund the difference, if you've accidentally rented a blu-ray.

6. In Toronto people will try to run you down in their cars if you bike on the roads

7. In Fergus they will run you down in trucks

8. In Toronto you never see people you know

9. In Fergus you can not get anything done in town without a 10min conversation.

10. Fergus has the Elora Gorge. But you can go on Saturday and visit everyone from Toronto.

Thats all for now,

- C.D. Clements.

On Summer Reading

2010-08-20T12:30:00.000-07:00

This summer I have had a personal goal of reading more and playing video games less. If any of you are in the same boat, here are two brilliant suggestions; from one gamer to another.

Alex Garland, The Beach: It is like Lord of the Flies, except we are not in grade 10, and it is not compulsory reading. Also it is about a select group of backpackers who are trying to re-create Eden [Wow!]. You may have seen the movie, but as with many movies, the book was way better. The Beach weighs in at 439 pages, and is very engaging the whole way through.

Cormac McCarthy, The Road: Father & son survival in a post-apocalyptic America. Also a movie, but I haven't seen it yet. Some people say this is the most important fiction or non-fiction in the past 25 years. I can't come down on one side of the debate, or the other (in that I'm not well informed), but the statement certainly reveals the quality of writing in this novel. The Road weighs in at 256 pages, but you will likely read the ending at least twice.

Yours in switching up addictions,

-C.D. Clements.

On the value of being concise.

2010-07-27T10:00:00.000-07:00

Hope my previous post was not too long.

I found this image shortly after I posted on Matthew 5.

Jokes!

-C.D. Clements

On Matthew 5

2010-07-27T09:13:00.000-07:00

I've come across a way of reading of the Beatitudes which I've not put together before. Simply, Matthew 5:2-12 is a picture of what New Creation will be when the Kingdom of God appears in fullness. Jesus relates a present point of tension and its outcome in New Creation.

Case studies:

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

- In New Creation those who have had cause to mourn previously will be entirely comforted.

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

- Those who are pure [made righteous in Christ] will see God when the Kingdom comes in fullness.

However, these verses are not limited to a future hope. (Note the present tense 'are'!) Scripture tells us that the Kingdom of God is appearing even now. As we act as the body of Christ on earth, we can expect to see these verses being realized as New Creation happens in our lives, and the lives of those around us.

Granted there is some mystery about why the Kingdom does not come in fullness a.s.a.p. I'll leave that for a later time; more can be said, but we all know nobody reads long blog posts.

-C.D. Clements

On worth while things.

2010-06-27T15:07:00.000-07:00

A short while after my previous post I attended a conference where the speakers made fun of different social media, including blogs. At one point an image was shown of a trendy young person typing on a mac; the caption read: "I have nothing to say, and I say it often".

Nothing to say?... I suppose we have been found out.

Although I feel the trendy mac part does not apply in my case.

Regardless, let me post this link to a modern creed which I think is brilliant. I am strongly considering adapting it into curriculum format for use in my new church. Let it not be thought that this post has "nothing to say". (Even if its significance is outsourced)

Our World Belongs to God: A Contemporary Testimony.

-C.D. Clements

On Being Reformed

2010-04-05T17:12:00.001-07:00

I recently decided that I am totally digging being Christian Reformed. I've never been Dutch, but I am now way reformed. We probably have the best tag line of all time:

"All of life, in relation to God"

Also, I just spent the past 30 minutes reading about our different positions on various issues. Not convinced? I don't believe you.

-C.D. Clements

On switching it up.

2010-04-04T04:11:00.001-07:00

This used to be a stupid post, and now it is nothing.

-C.D. Clements

On Phish & the Olymipcs | Reposed from Phish.net

2010-02-22T14:40:00.000-08:00

Just a few fun facts [phun phacts] about Phish on network/stadium playlists during the Olympics.

Ocelot was played during trials for the ski jump on 12/26/09.

First Tube was used in the bump to a commercial about the upcoming bobsled competition on 2/20/10.

Tweezer Reprise (a good 3 minutes worth!) was the background music for the Ono speedskating segment late on 2/20/10.

Kill Devil Falls (the version from Joy) was played over the PA at the Canada vs. USA men's hockey game 2/21/10, with about 15 seconds left in the first period. They played about 20 seconds of the chorus before the puck was dropped again.

Axilla (Part II) (from Hoist) was played with about 8 minutes left in the second period at the same game.

***

On another note loosely related to the Olympics; Skate skis are the new Downhill skis. Maximum fun + no lift ticket. Snow is becoming plentiful up Uxbridge way.

-C.D. Clements

An appeal to competitors

2010-02-11T16:08:00.000-08:00

During time wasting activities over the past few years, I have defaulted to one game in particular: X Moto. Found natively in Linux, it is also available for Windows, Mac, and a few other OS's. A first impression might lead you to believe X Moto is mostly a nerdy game, but recent events in the Tyndale Maintenance office have confirmed what I have always suspected: X Moto has the potential of a cult hit.

X Moto is a 2D motor-bike side scroller, but with 2000 plus user generated levels, a very healthy degree of difficulty, and a wildly impressive statistic system, it leaves any competition far behind. I wish to invite you [the reader] into this game, and if you would dare, into the fiercely competitive world of Tyndale Maintenance's X Moto competition.

Walk through on how to get X Moto running on your computer:

A) Download latest version at http://xmoto.tuxfamily.org/

B) Install the game. Be sure to:

Enable web access [Options tab > WWW tab > Enable WWW access]
Click “Check WWW” at the bottom of the page.
- Allow to download high scores, new levels

C) Play the game. You can select level various difficulties with the "difficulty stars" and the “Quick Start” feature on the main page. Or play through a map pack in the Levels tab.

D) Go back to http://xmoto.tuxfamily.org/ and register your username.

Note the links bar on the main page
Select the “Log In” link
Create a new player account
Enter in your profile name from the game (case sensitive), give an email & password.

E) Synchronize your game account to your web account

Options tab > WWW tab > enter your password
Then, Options tab > Database tab > select the Synchronize button

F) Find the Tyndale “room” and share your high scores & level replays.

On the Web:
- Log in
- Select the Private Rooms link
- Find Tyndale in the pull down menu
- Enter your profile name
- Enter the room's password (which is “tyndale”. Note the small case “t”)
- Select Change of Room
In Game:
- Options tab > Reference Room tab > Update Room Button > Tyndale (type into the filter)
- Select the room
- Be sure to upload your high scores (button on right of screen)

This may seem complicated, but worthwhile. See if you can beat Nathan's score on “Toxic Waste.”

Enjoy!

-C.D. Clements

On Snow

2010-01-23T19:41:00.000-08:00

I received some new cross-country skis for Christmas, but did not receive any snow. In fact, the weather-man is calling for a high of 9 degrees tomorrow. So it looks like my skis will have to remain in the closet until global warming ends.

With all the time I've spend not skiing, I've found time to replace the bearings & grease in my bicycle hubs. It is not every year your bike is entitled to a mid-winter tune up.

Perhaps next Christmas I'll ask for a sombrero & beach umbrella.

-C.D. Clements

Update

2010-01-13T14:31:00.000-08:00

I found out today that my previous post referres to Uganda's recent revision of their anti-homosexuality bill. The Catholic church is seeking to distance itself from the bill, which contains wild/crazy policies such as life imprisonment or the death sentence.

I also listened in on The Current today, which sought to connect the newly revised bill to American evangelicals. As the program closed, it did not seem like Anna Maria Tremonti was happy the the position either of her guests took.

Links:
Uganda Bill as reported by the CBC.
Commentary on American evangelical involvement, from The Current.

-C.D. Clements

On funny news briefings

2010-01-10T12:13:00.000-08:00

The other day I was driving to work and heard on the BBC world news that the Catholic church was to be taking [quote:] rear-guard actions against homosexual lobbyists. Oops!

I couldn't find this story online; but neither did I search thoroughly.

On Hipsters & Haters

2009-12-16T13:52:00.000-08:00

When ever you like something, your joy increases when you share it with others. Here are two items I would like to share with you.
A) Derek Webb's most recent: a clever twist from what he normally releases. I feel like a real hipster listening to all these drum & bass inspired tracks. It also has a controversial track only available online! (Great marketing ploy?) Regardless, put on your coolest Kensington market purchases, and enjoy Webb's new electric edge.

B) This site is very funny . A rare look through the eyes of an individual who doesn't like Phish. (Is that even possible?) I'll concede a few points this fellow makes; but only to say they are endearing "flaws". Mind the language if it bothers you.

-C.D. Clements

P.s. C) Jesus. Bonus Link! He is also worth looking into.

On meeting with mentors

2009-11-30T18:14:00.000-08:00

The other day I met with an old mentor of mine to re-connect. He expressed during our time together that he needs Jesus, and did so in a very sincere manner. Needing Jesus is something I often express in keeping with proper theology, or view as a well-timed phrase used to create atmosphere in church services. While neither is really a problem in my view, I want to express that it is very refreshing to “re-discover” needing Jesus in my own life. Working with God is much better than working by one’s self.

-C.D. Clements

*Special note: all graphics considered for this post were too cheesy; I trust those who like pictures within a blog post will understand.

On wise comments

2009-10-29T19:32:00.000-07:00

I often enjoy the comments section of an online media piece, more than the article/clip/picture... etc. People take the liberty to write all sorts of crap, and are generally very serious about it. Then someone else feels a former comment is wrong in a very grievous way; and so on. With regard to this matter, my friend James used to joke that he could not sleep when someone on the internet was wrong and didn't know it. Along these same lines, I came across one of the greatest posts I have read yet. People love to argue for their operating system, and I spotted this on a review of the new Ubuntu Linux; someone posted:

StereotypeGuy
October 29, 2009 7:29pm
Okay, I'll post everyone's comments for them:
Windows fanboys: "Yeah, but can you play games on it? Who uses Linux anyway? Windows 7 is so much better at the end of the day... I mean, everyone uses Windows anyway, so why do Linux users have this compulsive need to be different and feel superior? Call me when it gets Office 2007"
Mac fanboys: "Yeah, whatever. I don't have time between trips to Ikea to learn how to use Linux. I just want something easy, simple, beautiful, and that never crashes or gets viruses and never crashes or gets viruses and never crashes or gets viruses. Plus, I don't think you can put iTunes on it, can you? Hey, wanna see my new iPhone app?"
Linux fanboys: "Well this is another blow to Microsoft and Apple OSs. When will people finally realize that open source is the future? Have fun, Winblows and Crapple owners with your bloated, slow 7 and Snow Leopard. Have fun getting viruses and paying $5,000 just to upgrade your OSX desktop. I'm laughing at you all because I'm simply better than you."

Anyway... "trips to Ikea" hehe.

-C.D. Clements

Hitler: MGMT vs. Bowie

2009-10-10T08:58:00.000-07:00

During Halloween shows, Phish have a tradition of donning a "musical costume." This costume is another group's album played from start to finish. This year, the Phish website has an ongoing game, where the last record left "alive" will be Phish's upcoming musical costume. There is much speculation, but I found an insider video that lays the facts bare. It also stars Hitler. Take a look:

-C.D. Clements

On making mature life choices.

2009-09-10T18:01:00.001-07:00

This past summer, I spent 22 days on northern Ontario rivers, mostly with Pioneer Camp. These days I am back in Toronto earning a living; which I have since remembered is very a mundane life. As such, I am trying to think up what to do with the rest of my life, but haven't come up with anything responsible, engaging, and preferably with rapids. Let me know if you (dear reader) have any good ideas.

***

In a former post I lamented being at camp. Just now I lamented being back in the real world* of two part-time jobs, and little to do in the evenings. I think some prophetic figure (Morpheus) once said: "Fate, it seems, is not without its sense of irony"

-C.D. Clements

*Clever allusion!

On screaming kids

2009-08-18T13:34:00.000-07:00

There comes a time in every man's life where he is ready for camp to be over, and for September to arrive.

-C.D. Clements

On Fearing the Lord

2009-08-05T13:15:00.000-07:00

A "hole" is a particular movement of water, which is generally found when fast moving water encounters a deeper section of a river. The effect of this meeting in the river is sort of "folding over" of the river on itself. This force creates a current which is constantly being driven to the river bed, and then circling back in on itself.

On a recent out-trip, I found myself accidentally caught in an eddy, which forced my canoe on to a hole, which then capsized me. While this particular hole was relatively small, the hydraulics caught me in an underwater swirl for [only] about 10 seconds.
After settling down, and making careful note of my error, so as to not repeat it, I was thinking about my experience, and how it parallels my understanding of the Fear of God.

The Fear of God is a very real thing; if God appeared to me suddenly, I expect I would become genuinely afraid. However, our relationship with God is not exclusively on these terms; there is also a mix of respect & honour. Even, there is an element in our relationship with God of enjoyment (as stated in my church's catechism).

While I appreciate that metaphors will break down under scrutiny, I am feeling these days like our relationship with God, and our fear of him, is something like canoing on moving water. While I find the rapids to be majestic, and certainly enjoyable, only a fool would approach moving water without deep respect... or even fear for what the rushing river is capable of.

As we relate with God, we discover him to be majestic, delighting, and commanding of our respect. However, not wanting to be foolish, we are fearful as we come to appreciate reality of who he is.

-C.D. Clements

On Northern Bushmen

2009-07-29T16:49:00.000-07:00

On a recent canoe trip I was leading, the group asked a remote cottager in a run down shack/cottage if he knew of any good sites on the lake. He introduced himself as a retired man from the southern sates. As conversation progressed, it became quickly apparent to us that he was also the creepiest man ever.

With an apparent guise of being caring, he began asking bizarre questions, trying to get one of us in his boat so he could show us the site he had in mind, wanting to inspect our equipment, and wanting to know about our abilities to communicate with the outside world.

Since we could not pleasantly break off the conversation, we paddled away, only to observe him get in his boat to follow us.

Eventually we shook him by telling him we were going to stay on a particular “site” for the night and agreeing to go fishing with him. While he went to get his “fishing stuff” we paddled our faces off and got away.

The LIT's decided that the man reminded them of Herbert the Pervert from Family Guy. I would say I agree.

-C.D. Clements

Support

2009-06-20T08:13:00.000-07:00

Hello Everybody,

For the past four summers, Nyssa and I have been volunteering with Pioneer Camp's leadership training program. The L.I.T. (Leaders in Training) program is for 16 & 17 year old who are looking at being councilors in the camp, and who want to develop as leaders and maturing Christian as they return home.
The LIT program runs in month long sessions, and builds into the teens through intentional teaching, discipleship, growth experiences, and staff & peer relationships. I have seen many teens be significantly transformed as they move through the program; moving toward deeper discipleship in Christ. Nyssa and I both agree that seeing this process in youth's lives year after is is what makes LIT important to us, and what keeps drawing us back.

This summer Nyssa and I are raising support to cover rent in Toronto while we are up at camp. If you are interested in helping us out with this, there are a few ways which donations can be processed, the most direct can be used via this link. You may also browse through pioneercamp.ca by following the links: Support Us -> Financial Support -> Staff Summer Missions -> Donate Online -> Chris Clements.
Nyssa and I hope to be in personal contact with all who support us. If you are sending support, but we have not talked face to face, please drop us a line so we may do so!

Thanks everybody,
Chris & Nyssa Clements.

On White Noise

2009-06-10T17:29:00.001-07:00

   As this blog entry is being made, Nyssa is watching "So you think you can dance", and I am trying to refine liturgies for next Sunday's service. The conflict comes in that I need these liturgies to make sense, as well as lead people to God.

    I remember that my former room-mate Al had tried to use an inverted noise program to cancel unwanted after-hours hallway commotion. I also recall that this did not work as planned. However, building on this inspiration, I have found a website which hosts a variety of white noise tracks from University of Utah. (accessible via this link)

    Below is is a screenshot of these tracks in action:

    My favorite is Harsha_Rao.mp3
    Enjoy!

-C.D. Clements.

A glimpse into Real Life.

2009-06-01T15:18:00.000-07:00

"Facts are simple and facts are straight
Facts are lazy and facts are late
Facts all come with points of view
Facts don't do what I want them to
Facts just twist the truth around
Facts are living turned inside out
Facts are getting the best of them
Facts are nothing on the face of things
Facts don't stain the furniture
Facts go out and slam the door
Facts are written all over your face
Facts continue to change their shape"

Talking Heads on Youtube: 1
Writing a Sermon: 0

-C.D. Clements

On Studying the Bible

2009-05-22T20:13:00.000-07:00

About once a month the youth group will come over to my home for a manuscript bible study. I have come to believe that the doodles left of each youth's scripture manuscript indicates something of the relevance of the topic, or perhaps the preparedness of the leader (myself). Tonight I have found these following doodles left on the manuscripts, at the end of the event:

A) A seal-like bird yelling "Salut"
B) A snake holding a grenade, a clock, and an arrow.
C) A tent and a tree with the word "Christmas" arching over both.
D) A pig, under a tree, under a cloud, which contains the word "cbad".
E) A spider, in a cup, collecting a bunch of small circles.

I would say it was an average study.

-C.D. Clements

On Recent Events

2009-05-15T10:54:00.001-07:00

I thought I might like to bring you (whoever you are) up to speed on a few events in my recent life. Some are of no consequence, while others are of much.

In chronological order, I have recently:

A) Discovered a green mailbox in a remote location between Cornwall and Ottawa. This discovery was made before lunch, and halfway through a medium long walk on country roads.

B) Graduated from Seminary, and then posed as family members took pictures of me by an orange traffic cone in a parking lot.

C) Ate some oddly textured food. The texture pictured at left is an eggplant curry dish, and the right is a tofu stir fry where the tofu crumbled. Nyssa believes that the eggplant curry resembles diarrhea, and the tofu stir fry resembles baby barf.

D) I have recently made my first call to the Mike Gordon Hotline. Upon calling, you will hear a lengthy pre-recored message by Mike, and then you are invited to leave a message according to specific guidelines. These guidelines can be found at http://media.mike-gordon.com/hotline.html I recommend calling this number on Skype to avoid long distance charges.

- C.D. Clements, M.Div.

On things I would buy, if I had lots of money.

2009-04-18T09:17:00.000-07:00

1. A Hyundai Accent: I have come to believe it would be useful to own a car. One case in point would be that I am always arriving at meetings out of breath, and with dirty pants.

2. A good touring bike for Nyssa: In the mean time (re:Hyundai Accent) I went to bike store today to try and get some kinks worked out of my drive train. The mechanic was a great conversation.

3. Phish Tickets for this summer's tour. Preferably for "The Gorge" shows: So much fun. Perhaps Nyssa and I could bike there. Below is someone's shot from last time Phish played there.

4. Support an Inter-varsity Ministry, probably Pioneer Camp: I am a big fan of almost everything they do. Nyssa and I are greatly anticipating taking the summer off of city based responsibility, and volunteering at L.I.T.!

If you are feeling rich and charitable, just let me know!

-C.D. Clements

Gun O'Clock

2009-04-02T20:03:00.000-07:00

On The Things I Learn

2009-03-31T11:24:00.000-07:00

Nyssa, myself, and some friends, have tried over the past year to “do” community & gospel living. We were going to hold a handful of cool (kingdom of God style) events and meet regularly in between. We have ended up with a one-off service event, a few great ideas which didn't happen, and a few brunches and meetings.

It was an interesting experiment, and in the end I have two conclusions.
A. Even though I often consider this to be over-hyped, there is probably something to be said for actually living together.
B. Graduate student people are transient/fragmented; Improvisation makes for funny skits, and may find some resonance in faith life. But I bet it helps to be a planned and mature doer of God's work.

On the other hand, it was a great experience as we did not have a lot riding on our experiment, and in the end I would think we are better friends/people because of it.

These days I like this verse:

1 Corinthians 15:58
Therefore, my dear brothers, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.

-C.D.Clements

On the Intersection of Jazz and Soup.

2009-03-03T19:06:00.000-08:00

Perhaps you have heard the story of stone soup, and perhaps you even enjoy the recipe described in the story. Over the past year or so, I have undertook to make many batches of the stuff. The great thing about it, is that so many “stone soup” recipes differ from one another; I have discovered that there is little consensus on how this soup is to be made.

All things considered*, it seems that making stone soup simply requires one to mix together healthy portions of different vegetables, add broth, perhaps a clove of garlic, and then boil for ½ hour. The end result is much like a Phish song: the loose structure is there, and you more or less know what you are getting into. However the moments of inspiration, and subtleties therein, can take the soup [or song] to wondrous new levels!
(With regard to soup: generally less killer grooves)

As Trey himself might say: improvisation enables the one to obtain a end result they would never have reached otherwise.

Here is to an apple core, worms galore, and a can of some corrosive.

*Or Reconsidered
-C.D. Clements

On a handful of things.

2009-02-11T17:16:00.000-08:00

You may have noticed that there were no posts in January. Here are a few mini-posts to make up:

Mini-post A)

My youth group recently went to pack up a senior's belongings, due to the fact that she was being evicted. She said that her pension could not cover a rent increase. She also said that her social worker advised her to put her stuff in storage and “move into” a shelter. Ultimately the youth and I didn't know what to do, so we packed her stuff, conversed pleasantly with her, and left. Later I gave her name to some contacts in the church. She says she will contact me in march regarding her situation. What an experience.

Mini-post B)

I used to do these Bible in a Year challenges. I managed a few translations, and then gave it up. In January I started this up again, but using The Message translation. However I've become aware that many folks think this is a bad idea. Some will even tell me it is not devotional reading. So I guess I will not be doing any devotions until I finish The Message.

Mini-post C)

I have taken to playing Fallout 3. It is the sort of game that scares you (or at least me) if played alone, or for too long. Last night I was in a subway tunnel looking for cannibals (in game that is). Between that and an episode of The Fringe, I had crazy dreams.

Mini-post D)

Nyssa and I have been on an epic quest for cross-country skis. Recently we finally compiled two complete sets. We have also discovered that the X-C skiing in Toronto sucks . It looks like the only real X-C skiing we will get in this winter will be the camping trip with the extended family. However it is hard to tell if Nyssa is feeling the "4 mid-winter days in the middle of nowhere" vibe.

-C.D.Clements

On being emo. (Daniel Lanios Style!)

2008-12-09T17:10:00.000-08:00

A while ago Nyssa bought an album by Daniel Lanois. You may know this fellow as producer on some U2, Bob Dylan, and Peter Gabriel albums. Additionally, if you are from the Jam Band circuit you will know his song “the maker”, which the Gerry Garcia Band and the Dave Matthews Band have covered on a few occasions.

I have been listening to “Shine”, and it has been the most emo-ambient experience I think I've had since high school. And I'll admit, I thoroughly enjoyed what Daniel had to offer.

Let me recommend to you readers who are generally opposed to rainy day music, but on special occasions (like writing term papers on a snowy day) may secretly indulge: Daniel Lanois – Shine.

I'll add that I was very excited to see that the album has two drummers: Brian AND Brady Blade! Bono and Emmylou Harris also appear on two tracks.

Two [misunderstood] thumbs up.

-C.D. Clements.

On Having Thighs

2008-11-22T10:31:00.000-08:00

I subscribe to a Photoshop disaster blog.
This one is great:

-C.D.Clements

On "What Saint Paul Really Said"

2008-11-06T10:52:00.000-08:00

(Watch out Tom Wright. Here I come.)

So, apparently Paul's words in Romans chapter 7 “I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do...” are chronically misinterpreted. Most will take this section of scripture as words of solace/permission for sin in their lives.

However my professor and a commentator I have to read for the class both argue that these words are a “Diatribal Speech in Character.” This means that these words are spoken in the persona of another to illustrate a point. In this particular case Paul's character is one who adheres to the Law (which shows sin) as opposed to the one who is under the law of the Spirit (which is characterized by “no condemnation”). This means that in Paul's experience, “Life through the Spirit” does not include compulsive sin that overrides the will of the believer.

This is cool, because things like Jesus' speech to the seven churches in Revelation (and the other general directives of the N.T.) is not a calling beyond our reach. Provided we are living according to what Paul describes in chapter 8.

Lastly, it is also worth noting that despite the frequency of the word “do” in chapter seven, Paul never ends up accidentally committing the classic “do-do” joke.

Life through the Spirit and not getting caught in do-do; great stuff.

-C.D. Clements.

On things I got, but am not.

2008-10-21T12:47:00.000-07:00

The Killers have this song called “All these things that I've Done”. If you know this song, you will be familiar with the tag line of I got soul but I'm not a Soldier. The game here is to make fun of the song by thinking up things you own, but of which you are not.

The Paradigm is: I got [noun] but I'm not a [noun which sounds similar].

And here are some good ones that have been thought up:

I got Ham, but I'm not a Hamster.
I got Wit, but I'm not a Witness.
I got Class, but I'm not a Classroom.
I got Pans, but I'm not a Pancake.

What have you got, but are not?

-C.D. Clements.

On being an Atheist.

2008-10-15T09:32:00.000-07:00

Catchy title eh? I am not an atheist, but I found a great blog written by someone who is.

http://friendlyatheist.com/

For handful of years now I have been reading the big names in Atheism, and the big names in Christian apologetics. I've taken a few classes, and always enjoy those Youtube video debates where people try to remain civil, while working hard to prove their various positions on God's existence.

Allow me to recommend this friendly atheist blog. The fellow is someone who is well thought out, and from my perspective, is able to offer credible critiques of the church. It also helps that he is a nice guy.

-C.D.Clements

My 27 hour adventure.

2008-08-04T18:28:00.000-07:00

Setting: L.I.T. Canoe trip in Temagami

EARLY MORNING:
-Get up at 5:50 a.m.
-Breakfast, devotion, and then break camp.
-Travel 10 Km to reach the beginning of the Temagami River rapids.
- Do some moving water training before hitting the difficult segments of the River.
MID-MORNING:
-Hit first set of rapids. These are too dangerous for L.I.T. s to run. We portage all the gear, except canoes.
-Rob scouts the rapids. He and I run 4 canoes down, while the others portage the last two. Running these rapids is very intense. Very fast water for about ¾ of a Kilometer.
-Eat rushed lunch anticipating a long day of work.
AFTERNOON:
-Next set of rapids. Nyssa’s canoe is flipped and pined against a rock. We recover lost baggage (all of it, luckily!). Given these events we again portage all the gear. Rob kicks out the dent caused by the rock in this canoe.
-This time everyone who wants to runs these. I stern for a few who are less confident.
MID-AFTERNOON:
-Make it to third set of Rapids. These are about a Kilometer in length.
-Again, Portage all gear.
-I feel I am too exhausted to run these. Some of the L.I.T.’s step up.
-We get all the canoes half way down, but pause to scout the challenging bottom portion.
-Second canoe down flips: the L.I.T.s who flipped are quite scraped & bruised by rocks.
-Rob runs a few down himself.
DINNER HOUR:
-No time for dinner. I eat some snack food for energy however.
-Fourth canoes down flips. As John (an L.I.T.), who was sterning this particular canoe comes out of the water, he complains of a pain in his back.
-Rob lifts his shirt to reveal many cuts and scrapes. The most significant of these cuts is about 10 cm long and about 1.5 cm. deep!
-This is a bad situation. Rob is on the Satellite phone to make arrangements to get John to a hospital
-We portage the last two canoes.
EARLY EVENING:
-I am to paddle John to an access point Rob has found on the map. We will travel together as a group until John and I depart for this access point. I expect about 8 hours of paddling to get John out.
-We hit the last set of rapids. We are all to tired to do another portage.
-We run these fully loaded. No one flips.
-No open campsites are found. It is late in the day, and we pass 3 which are already taken. This does not bother me, as I will not be stopping for many more hours.
-I am very, very tired. John is unable to paddle due to the pain he is in.
-I take time to pray with John. The situation seems too overwhelming.
DUSK:
-With about 20 min left of light we see a lone cottage on the far shore. Rob paddles over to see if the group can camp on their lawn.
- We are not to camp on the cottages lawn (liability issues), but the cottager offers to guide us by motor boat to a campsite he knows of nearby. Rob mentions our situation with John.
NIGHT:
-It has been dark for about 45 min when we reach the site. The motor boat has a big light which illuminates the camp so we can get unpacked.
-I pray quickly while Rob asks if the motor boat could drive John and I to the nearest access point. There is supposed to be a camp vehicle which will meet us there.
-The motorboat agrees, and will be back in 20 min after he tells his wife where he will be going. This is very, very, very good news.
-When the motorboat returns John and I board with some possessions and a bag of gorp to share for dinner. We express our deep thanks to the man and his friend. They are chatty, and refuse any money for gas.
-We need to go slow and the boaters are wary of drift wood and shallows in the dark. It takes about an hour to reach the access point. This is a very cold ride as I do not have access to a sweater.
-We arrive at the access point. Nobody is there. There aren’t even any lights in the area. It is just a gravel path from the highway down to the water.
-The boaters refuse to just leave John and I (wow!) so we think about what we are going to do.
-We decide to walk along this highway as the boaters have an aunt who lives a little bit down.
-We get to the Aunt’s cottage, and she is having a campfire with her friends. John and I are grateful to warm up. I call camp and they say someone should be meeting us.
- Periodically, I run back to the access point to see if anyone has arrived. I am thinking that we are going to be there along time. I don’t know what to do at the aunt’s house because it is late, and I get the feeling these folks want to go to bed. I pray fervently that the camp vehicle finds us.
CLOSING IN ON MID-NIGHT:
-On one of my trips back to the access point, I return to discover the camp vehicle has arrived. I am soooo relieved.
-We drive our boater/rescue friends back to their boat.
-We leave for North Bay hospital
-John and I eat our gorp for dinner. It is strange but we have not felt hungry until this point.
EARLY MORNING:
-We arrive at the hospital. John is taken into to be looked at, but it is decided that he will have to wait for treatment.
-I also register to be looked at as I had developed pink eye on the first day of the trip.
-We wait 4 hours to be looked at. We cannot sleep in the waiting room; the chairs are far too uncomfortable.
DAWN:
-Both John and I have been treated. John has had both stitches inside the wound and on the surface of the wound to close it. I have just been prescribed some eye drops.
-We drive out of North Bay after breakfast at Tim Horton’s.
MORNING:
-It is 9:00, and we arrived back at camp.
-John and I have been awake for 27 hours.

Prologue:
I sleep from 9:00 until about 5:30. It is amazing.
At dinner we tell stories, and then I head down to the docks for some time with God.
Almost immediately I read the following passage; it speaks deeply to me:

Trust me in times of trouble and I will rescue you, and you will give me glory.
Psalm 50:15.

-C.D. Clements

On a Particular Aspect of Marriage

2008-06-26T19:41:00.000-07:00

When you marry someone who has a seizable music collection, one finds oneself owning many additional albums without having had to purchase them. One of these albums I defaulted into owning is David Bowie's Reality. If I could influence your life in one way (dear reader), it would be to give Mr. Bowie a chance, and purchase this album for yourself. Artful modern rock with catchy melodies, and thoughtful lyrics.
It is wonderful to have married Nyssa, and to have married into a healthy Bowie collection.

-C.D. Clements

P.s. This post is mostly tongue-in-cheek, as it is said. Although if possible, do try to marry (or at least date) someone who owns this album, other Bowie albums, or at least some music you might like to listen to, but have not yet purchased.

On Graphing Different Things

2008-06-08T19:26:00.000-07:00

I found this site online: http://crappygraphs.com/
You can make and view Crappy Graphs
Here are my favorite two:

-C.D. Clements

On how Shakespeare got me a Cupcake: 10 incredible degrees of separation!

2008-04-16T12:08:00.000-07:00

1. Shakespeare wrote many plays which became famous.
2. More recently some people made a “Stratford Festival” which showcases his plays.
3. My friend's girlfriend went out to Stratford to make costumes for the festival.
4. Then my other friend's girlfriend went out to visit her.
5. As such, my friends mutually decided to have a 'boys only' night, seeing as their girlfriends were out of town.
6. I decided to attended this get-together, leaving Nyssa in North York.
7. Not wanting to be bored, Nyssa got together her friends for the same evening.
8. One of her friends happened to bring some cupcakes to the get-together.
9. Nyssa brought an extra cupcake home for me.
10. I ate the cupcake the next day.

You can clearly see the [semi]direct influence of Shakespeare on my recent life.
Who could have guessed the at effects of this man's life, even after all these years?

-C.D. CLements

On the following:

2008-02-26T11:12:00.000-08:00

A reflection on the break up of Phish

From reading various news articles courtesy of Phish.net, catching various interviews such as Trey Anastasio on Charlie Rose, or the interviews on the “PHISH IT” documentary (to name a few sources), I feel I appreciate the decision to stop Phish.

From what I interpret, there was a 'spirituality' which was contained within Phish. This spirituality of Phish was an incorporation of all sorts of values in relationship with on another, and all of these at once in some sort of relationship with a higher power. These values certainly include community, celebration, creative expression, improvisation, joy, (to identify a few). Each of these saw their place in what the music was, and what Phish was. Over these values, through these values, and undergirding these values there was an esoteric scene of the divine presence. Similarly, over the music, through the music, and undergirding the music was this same sense of the divine presence... or as Trey comments, divine language. The spirituality of Phish was an incorporation, and intimate intertwining of these: the values, the music, and the divine, to the point where one is not easily seen and understood apart from the others.

As I understand it, over time Phish as a whole began to experience a rift (no pun intended) between what Phish was, and what this spirituality in its pure form intended Phish to be. From what I gather, there are a bunch of factors around this slow separation; factors both known and unknown. However at the time which the decision was made to dissolve Phish, there must have been an acknowledgment that Phish was slowly departing from this pure form. Phish was on a different trajectory than what Phish' original values would have informed. The options then would be to either continue the band, but only with the shell of the music, (as the core spirituality was missing), or to preserve the original spirituality and intent of Phish, by stopping Phish.

As such, I have come to think band made the right decision. As the less visible (and aural) aspects of Phish became 'unfocused' it seems like the whole thing became an abuse of what was intended, or pure.

While I am sad to never again hear any new Phish music, or to experience the Phish live experience, I think I really appreciate what the band members are doing now. It is as though each is following a path which seeks after what the hidden (mysterious, spiritual) things of life are leading them down. Following after the divine, and being true to the self are certainly noble pursuits. It would be a shame if the members of Phish were to fore go this pursuit in favor of keeping alive something which the spirit was not in.

-C.D. Clements

On the Mug of suspected Death

2007-12-26T11:16:00.000-08:00

Pat got me a big mug for the 493 Christmas present exchange. (Also some tea to go in the mug; very thoughtful). But whenever hot liquids are placed in this mug, it emits alarming 'clicking'/'ping' sounds.

Nyssa thinks the mug is poisoned. I think it could be a tea activated time bomb. Pat is in North Bay, and cannot comment. (Clever Alibi?) Whatever the case, if you see me with large gashes on my face, and a bizarre fear of red mugs, then you will know what happened.

In such an event blame Pat, or Hallmark

-C.D.Clements

Three Posts in One Month: Paper Season is Here.

2007-11-24T08:33:00.000-08:00

Some where along the time line of the month I became aware of the 'buy nothing Christmas'. Follow this link for some ideas.

My Personal Favorite:

Give Linux for Christmas! It's free and it works like a charm! These days, distributions include not only the operation system that runs your computer, but applications such as word processing, spreadsheets, picture and sound editing, etc. And give a hand installing it. It's not that it's too difficult, but some people's tech-savvyness is rather limited. —Gilles Pelletier

- C.D. Clements

On Something Nerdy and Neat.

2007-11-19T14:08:00.000-08:00

This is a game. It can be found on line for free.

It is fun; yet it is simple.

It is a game for people who are both gamers and desert fathers.

-C.D. Clements

On All The Cool Places

2007-11-16T11:18:00.000-08:00

Working Tyndale Maintenance, we (mainly myself) have a goal of being in as many restricted areas as possible before we move on from maintenance.

The only 'rule' to the contest is that an individual may only check off an 'area' when the individual has done legitimate maintenance work in the paticular area.

Here is the list of cool places I have been:

Roofs:
Gym
Cafeteria
Seminary
Hall of Missions
Chapel
6th Floor
Administrative:
Archives
Vault
All sorts of offices
President's Office
Library Work Rooms.
A few of those rooms in the basement filled with all sorts records
Facilities:
Boiler Room
Maintenance Shop (this is a given)
Electrical Room
Pump Room
Elevator Machinery Room (for the main lift)
Hydro Vault
Gardening Room (not very exciting)
Telephone Room
AV closets
Server Room
Heat Exchange Room
Services:
All over G&T cafeteria (including -17 Celsius meat locker)
Bookstore storage
Security Room
Other:
All Guest Rooms
All Female Washrooms (yuck)
6th Floor Kitchen
All Residence Storage Rooms

Only area left: The underground tunnel to Morrow Park!

-C.D. Clements

On a particular aspect of life

2007-09-26T17:58:00.000-07:00

A romantic relationship is limited (ideally...) to the two individuals involved in this relationship.

This means that the relationship is exclusive. (Again, assuming that others are not free to get in on the action).

Therefore when in a group setting, a good thing to do is to try to be as inclusive as is reasonable.

All things considered, we want to have inclusive relationships (says Pioneer Camp) as opposed to exclusive ones.

I think this is why I don't like enthusiastic displays of public affection.

Unless they are artful.

-C.D. Clements

Casual Reviewing

2007-06-30T13:58:00.000-07:00

Is this a remix of a 54-40 hit? No... it is Chris Clements' reviews of things he has encountered thus far throughout the summer, and which he feels are worth reviewing. A brief explanation, and then we begin.

To aid the reviewing process, each item will be ranked in three different categories, and be given a one sentence summary. Use the two handy reviewing aids in conjunction with each other for optimal performance.

Here are the three categories:

Category (A) : Humor

Rating system:
1 = Not Funny
2 = Worthwhile Funny
3 = Genuine Humor

Category (B) : Spiritual Content

Rating system:
1 = Pagan
2 = Average Zondervan Publishing Content
3 = Totally Kingdom of God

Category (C) : Awesome Factor

Rating system:
1 = Not Awesome
2 = Getting close to Awesome
3 = Awesome

THE ITEMS:

The Gift of Peace by Joseph Cardinal Bernardin
Score: Humor (1) Spiritual Content (3) Awesome Factor (2)
Short Sentence: Be inspired to know God in prayer, and a few other things.

Fantasy Images
Score: Humor (2) Spiritual Content (1) Awesome Factor (3)
Short Sentence: Replace your friend's desktop images for some entertainment (Nyssa Dhillon is a big fan).

Internet Reversi
Score: Humor (1) Spiritual Content (N/A) Awesome Factor (2)
Short Sentence: While not a high score in any of the rating categories, this little game can be played for hours on end. Also Will and Brad from the T.A.'s office can beat you at reversi any lunch hour.

Medeski Martin Wood (Jazz Trio)

Score: Humor (1) Spiritual Content (2?) Awesome Factor (3)
Short Sentence: Dig some pretty good jams; possibly get free tickets from some hippies to see M.M.W. at the Toronto Jazz Festival (this has only happened on one known instance: June 27 2007, to myself and Nyssa Dhillon).

Talking Heads: More Songs about Buildings and Food
Score: Humor (3) Spiritual Content (??) Awesome Factor (3)
Short Sentence: Hot Dog; everyone will like this album, from Tyndale Maintenance staff to house mates who went to North Bay for the summer.

Derek Webb: The Ringing Bell
Score: Humor (1) Spiritual Content (Mostly 3) Awesome Factor (2)
Short Sentence: See short sentence from the Talking Heads entry.

John Hodgman: The Areas of My Expertiese
Score: Humor (3) Spiritual Content (A little here, a little there) Awesome Factor (3)
Short Sentence: Be informed, in a humorous manner.

Eternal Wisdom from the Desert edited by Henry L. Carrigan Jr.
Score: Humor (1) Spiritual Content (3) Awesome Factor (3)
Short Sentence: Intense Spirituality from the third and fourth centuries.

Elder Scrolls IV - Oblivion
Score: Humor (1) Spiritual Content (1) Awesome Factor (3)
Short Sentence: Great Game. Fulfills all epic adventure needs in the modern 20 something male psyche.

The Heavenly Man by Brother Yun
Score: Humor (1) Spiritual Content (3) Awesome Factor (3)
Short Sentence: Intense spirituality from modern China.

-C.D. Clements

On Tyndale Maintenance: The Game

2007-05-28T19:38:00.002-07:00

-A quick introduction-

While at work on any Tyndale Maintenance job, there is invariably a test of skill and cunning which presents itself with the given task. These tests of the Tyndale Maintenance worker range from that of colossal engineering, to the subtle, yet unexpected setback. Play as either Chris or Mark*, and realize the adventure and reward of Tyndale Maintenance in the comfort of your own home.
Set in the style of Chips Challenge (see windows 95) and the occasional adventure perspective, (see such great games as 'Kings Quest'; 'Space Quest'; 'Police Quest' and to a lesser extent 'Torin's Passage') Tyndale Maintenance The Game** promises actual fun for all, not just those who are 'maintainly' inclined.

-Overview of Demo Levels-

Level 5:

Debunk all of 5^th floor's bunk beds.

-Features corroded extenders, flimsy frames, tight spaces, severely wedged components, missing items, bruised fingers, and mismatched headboards.

-For extra difficulty select the 'Hot Muggy Day' option.

Level 7:

Chair Stuck in Closet of room 407

-Features a Chair which cannot be removed by conventional means. (Tip: use screwdriver and accessories to remove closet door, and closet door track)

Level 12:

Change Light Bulb at 12' in the air, above spinning fan.

-Earn WHIMIS points for timely completion.

Level 20:

Find things to do while Mark is busy all day making name plates.

-This excludes leaving early and doing any sort of thing which is interesting

Level 30:

Securely fasten bookstore fan to sub-ceiling by anchoring a piece of wood with hooks to concrete ceiling without breaking anything, or setting of heat detectors with are directly above ladder, and attached to the ceiling panel to the left of the fan which needs to be anchored. Task must be completed amongst mess of various (mainly network) cables running any given way between sub-ceiling and concrete ceiling. Also be ware of water pipe running above celling tiles where fan must be anchored.

-A limit of three trips to Maintenance shop total (as opposed to per person) permitted for this level.

-Actual In-Game Screen Shots-

-C.D. Clements

*Who incidentally was received recently into the grouping of people know as 'the best people ever'; this selection of people are not necessarily the famous/elite, but are certainly recognized as prestigious with regard to their manner and skill in conjunction with [well...] various sorts of things. (Like a 'For many are called, but few are chosen' sort of scenario).

**System Requirements:

Pentium 4 - 2.5 Ghz (or better)

512 MB Video

1 GB Ram

4 GB Hard Drive Space

48x DVD Drive

On What I Found Online

2007-04-25T09:34:00.000-07:00

Options:
A) Penner's "Now and Not Yet" paradox in N.T. theology.

B) Prime example of Niebuhr's "Church Above the World" model of cultural interaction.

C) Carnal Nature in conflict with Spirit Nature

D) Different strokes for different folks

-C.D. Clements

On Pirated Pirate Internet Resources

2007-04-15T17:35:00.000-07:00

Here are some internet resources for the scholarly pursuit of pirate linguistics. Enjoy!

A) How to talk like a Pirate, 1

B) How to talk like a Pirate, 2

C) International Talk Like a Pirate Day

D) Supplementary Vocab, and alphabet

E) Flash English/Pirate Translation

F) AOL research & learn : Pirate phrases

G) Pirate Keyboard

H) Instructional Video

-C.D. Clements

On The Best Of Halo 2

2007-04-01T09:56:00.000-07:00

The 493 Cummer Avenue, Pat and Chris Halo 2 template for an optimal gaming session is comprised of many delicate elements. One of the most important and carefully considered components is the selection of music to which the game will be played. I have humbly comprised a ‘best of’ with regard to the Halo 2 sound track. It is our sincere hope that the incorporation of our research into great Halo 2 music will add new dimensions to your own Halo 2 experience.

The List: (alphabetically)

Elvis Costello – My Aim is True

Features classic Costello styled music, strong melodies, and a neat acoustic selection of bonus tracks.

Jars of Clay – Good Monsters

This new Jars of Clay album sends Christian music into the much beloved world of new ‘indy’ rock. Reminds us of stuff like Cold Play mixed with SufJan and some other things too. Track 8 is the best.

John Mayer – Continuum

Courtesy of Paul Randell; this is John Mayer as heard not catering to the musical needs of adolescent girls. Good mix for rocking; one step down from ‘rocking out’.

New Pornographers – Electric Version, Twin Cinema

Stellar Canadian band, regardless of what Dan Jupp’s cousin thinks. This is feel good, foot taping music.

Phish – Billy Breathes, Slip Stitch and Pass

Phish… who knew? Highlights include a well refined studio recording (Billy Breathes) and a great live album (Slip Stitch and Pass). The ladder is liked because of a Talking Heads cover which kicks the album off. The great jams will cause your Halo 2 experience to run incredibly smooth.

The Roan – Ambient Compilation

This is the music which stared it all. Jason Rainville made me an ambient mix in third year, and we would swear by this mix all through out the Tyndale Halo 2 years. Good mix of creepy ambient, and chill ambient with a beat.

Talking Heads – Fear of Music, Remain in the Light, True Stories

Music which is great, and a little out of the ordinary. Fear of music comes with many killer lines which can be quoted in various contexts for great inside jokes. Remain in the light is a treat as well. True Stories gives an enjoyable look at the 80’s from the talking head’s perspective. ‘Speaking in Tongues’ could have been in this list as well, but we haven’t given it the chance it probably deserves.

-C.D. Clements

On the Conference

2007-03-26T11:19:00.002-07:00

(click for larger view)

A few points from the Restoring Justice conference

A) Tony Campolo’s ideas about Red Letter Christians. This was a theme which could be found throughout the event, and originally posted by Lewis on his blog. Follow .:this link:. for an interview by Campolo on CBC’s the Hour.

B) It is not necessary to be a hippy to be a Christian. But adopting various hippy ideas really helps. There was a large emphasis on community and caring for others from a community.

C) Not at all related to the conference’s theme, but playing in the band was quite an experience. I never worship and experience God like I do from behind a kit. I am not sure what that is about, but it happens almost every time I play in a worship setting. I propose that playing drums is a very mystical experience…

Here are some links which are related:

Darryl’s Conference Notes

Epiphaneia – Session Syndication

J. Locke’s Reflection

N.A. Dhillon's Reflection

-C.D. Clements

On a Documentary

2007-03-12T19:27:00.000-07:00

The other night I watched a film about Burning Man festival. If you have two hours, this gives a neat look into the lives of others, and their ideas. Even a quick peruse would be worth while.

I don't think I will live and die by the ideas expressed in the film; however there are certainly some aspects where one could allow the ideas to influence the individual & the communal setting. Such an influence would probably leave the individual at a better place than where the individual started.

Let me know what you think.

Burning Man Documentary Link

-C.D. Clements

On two more photos from the L.I.T. canoe trip

2007-03-05T08:30:00.000-08:00

With regard to an unrelated matter; I hope Nyssa Dhillon will return to OPC this summer.

-C.D. Clements

On Humor

2007-02-25T18:23:00.000-08:00

Concert Field

"This was a holy moment in which one could ponder shit and be right."

Other funny phish moments are at:

Gallery with Captions

Letters to the Band with Responses

C.D. Clements

On!

2007-02-17T07:07:00.001-08:00

Chris Lewis has posted a little ditty about his experience at 493. This is worth reading. Follow this link.

-also-

Someone I live with took a trip. We don't know when he is returning, but we made him a welcome home picture. It is in a nice frame on his desk. Here is a preview:

- C.D. Clements

On The Porn Show

2007-02-06T19:32:00.000-08:00

Went to see the New Pornographers again on the 6th. It was an ambient -26 degrees at Nathan Phillips , and difficult to groove with many people packed around.

Degree of fun (although): High.

In addition Rachel Clements could have gone, but chose not to. I feel that she should have.

They are probably the best Canadian act going.

-C.D. Clements

On The Dearly Departed

2007-01-18T09:25:00.000-08:00

Chris Lewis (pictured above) has moved to the United States for school. Lewis was enjoyable to live with at 493 for the following reasons:

-Making fun of Penney and Paul (mostly Penney).

-Making fun of Al.

-Making fun of various other people.

-Discussing women.

-Lewis leaving his Stella in the fridge.

-Him having a beard.

-Talking about Ronald J. Sider, the Emerging church, and the book ‘Blankets’.

-The Sheraton Center trip (where the below photo was taken at breakfast).

-Affirming athletics, and the importance of looking good.

-Having someone to call 'LewDog'.

-Digging Damien Rice.

-And a variety of other reasons.

Okay man, visit soon.

-C.D. Clements

On Repetition

2007-01-08T21:49:00.000-08:00

Repetition in prayer assists in expressing a particular idea to God in prayer without having to think up new ways of explaining yourself.

Just don’t let the repetition become vain.

-C.D. Clements

On Three More Things

2006-12-18T10:54:00.000-08:00

First Thing:

Another Chris Clements Lookalike was found.

Second Thing:

A Picture of Nyssa and I. I am told the last post does not (and should) have a picture under the engagement post. So here one is.

Third Thing:

For the first time Trey has been arrested on drug related charges. Perhaps he is now becoming a bonafide rock star. For an interesting look into the drugs in his possession, surf to drugsandpoisons.blogspot.com

On Three Things.

2006-12-11T19:47:00.000-08:00

The First Thing:

I became engaged to Nyssa Dhillon on the 9th. You may see her blogspot for details. I can vouch for all she has written.

The Second Thing:

It has recently come to my attention that Christ was a man of the people; I suppose this includes (but is not limited to) the village people.

The Third Thing:

Penney has found this picture online, and it is not me. This mystery me apparently resides in England, and is a friend of a friend from Penney' s camp. Penney has also taken a few liberties with his new photo program. ( I feel you can click the image for a larger view)

-C.D. Clements

On Tyndale College, where I recieved my undergrad degree

2006-11-28T08:38:00.002-08:00

Preaching class trip to an organic farm to explore the Parable of the Soils

-C.D. Clements

On Jason Penney Buying a Bike

2006-11-12T14:17:00.000-08:00

There is nothing quite like a good bike. Recently Jesse, Nate D. and I went to Sunnybrook park, and came back very covered in mud. Here is why this is fun:

A) Going fast

B) Steering around obstacles

C) Having trees whip by your face

D) Physical burn of muscles

E) Performing great falls

F) Commenting to one another on how ‘awesome’ any given bike maneuver is, or particular terrain type.

G) Having that girl in the car check us out.

H) The knowledge that together we successfully completed a grueling ride in cold rain.

Dear Penney: come on man.

Also, special thanks to Chris Drudge for biking fast down the hill in the picture.

-C.D. Clements

On Al r. Hounsell

2006-11-01T18:47:00.000-08:00

Al is my former roomate. We don't hold it againts him. He still loves the Lord.

-C.D. Clements

On the Desert Fathers

2006-10-05T20:28:00.000-07:00

26. The brethren came to Abba Anthony and laid before him a passage from Leviticus. The old man went out into the desert, secretly followed by Abba Ammonas, who knew that this was his custom. Abba Anthony went a long way off and stood there praying, crying in a loud voice, 'God, send Moses, to make me understand this saying.' Then there came a voice speaking with him. Abba Ammonas said that although he heard the voice speaking with him, he could not understand it.

32. Abba Anthon said, 'I no longer fear God, but I love Him. For love casts out fear.' (Jn 4.18)

-C.D. Clements

On Going to Feenie's Cottage.

2006-08-29T19:39:00.000-07:00

- C.D. Clements

On Coming back from Camp.

2006-08-29T19:28:00.000-07:00

Community is the best and worst thing there is.

Best: Laughter, Morning Prayer, Mid-Morning Staff Run, Meals, Discussions, Honesty, etc.

Worst: Differences, Noise, Little Personal Space/Time, Sin, Miscommunication, Conflicting Personalities, etc.

We also went on a enjoyable canoe trip.

-C.D. Clemetns

On Trey

2006-07-20T16:49:00.000-07:00

Trey Anastasio: Toronto, CANADA July 18, 2006

Set list:

Sand
Drifting
Trouble
Sleep Again
Something For Rockets
Goodbye Head >
Plasma
Waste*
You've Got Me Floating*
On The Road Again*
Mexican Cousin*
Suskind Hotel
Who Are You

Encore:
These Eyes
Dragonfly
Tuesday
*Trey on acoustic guitar, Mike on banjo.

I have gone to see Trey Anastasio of Phish play the other night. Amongst the lengthy jams within the songs (which were in themselves somewhat of a transcendent experience) I consider the following points:

A) Trey refers to music & jams as a sort of divine language. (I am beginning to feel this is a valid point)
B) There is this ‘belonging’ sort of feeling/concept that happens amongst people while enjoying music.
C) I appreciate the cathartic/transcendent nature of a relationship with God, and great music. Not that Trey jams are a replacement for God, but just as language is used in conversation/communion with the divine, I find myself to be considering the role of music in communion with the divine.
D) At any rate, little jams in worship where one is able to stop singing prescribed words, and enter into a sort of worshipful communion (often without words) is unique and wonderful.

Okay. C.D. Clements.

On Work

2006-06-15T16:30:00.000-07:00

I work with a bunch of Jamaicans. Here are some “tings” they will say, and I have no clue what they are talking about.

1.“Criiis, where next glove!” = Chris, have you seen my other glove?
2.“Criiis, dumppen ‘n de middle” = Chris, please dump this bag of spice through the middle hatch of the mixer.
3.“Ohhhhhhnoo… I’m ‘ungry tooday Criiis” = Oh no, I am feeling hungry currently, but will be full after break.
4.“Criiss bruddah” = Hello Chris
5.“Criiis, getta next bag fruum Brender” = Chris, I need another bag from Brenda.
6.I ‘eard like-it tooouching… Tiiim!” = I hear a sound from the blender as though the blade is rubbing against the side. Better get Tim.

At any rate, they are a good deal of fun. (and confusion).

- C.D. Clements

On Going to Camp

2006-05-29T17:24:00.000-07:00

I will be on staff at Pioneer's L.I.T. program this summer. Please dig the the ideas behind L.I.T.:

a)"To promote the personal growth and leadership development of Christian teens."

b)"To train young people to serve as Christian leaders in Pioneer's camping programs and their broader home, school, and church communities. "

-also-

"Community is a vital component of the program, and L.I.T.s spend a great deal of the time in various groups. Activity groups, small groups, and room groups are all facilitated by carefully selected staff who model the servant lifestyle that L.I.T.s will seek to emulate. Through all of this community interaction, relationships are built which flourish into amazing and lasting friendships."

Looking foward...

-C.D. Clements.

On the Probable Case

2006-05-26T17:01:00.000-07:00

Here is a theory: People who attest to make decisions based on facts are probably,* not actually making decisions/actions based solely on facts.

1. Everybody has emotions and reasoning capabilities.
2. Emotions affect decisions/actions, on a ‘below the surface’ sort of level.
3. This is part of being a whole person.

It can be an interesting puzzle trying to discern the ‘underlying issues’ which are affecting the facts of a decision/behavior.

*Note: ‘Probably’ excludes things like buying the less expensive chicken to save money. This is an example where there is not a significant emotive component to behavior.

On Two Pictures with Captions

2006-05-15T17:02:00.000-07:00

This is my Hebrew (biblical language) class. We were all ‘in it together’ which made for a unique sort of classroom community bond.

Myself and Storm on the Play Fort. A swing jumping competition ensued.

-C.D. Clements

On the End of the World

2006-05-11T15:16:00.000-07:00

I went to see N.T. Wright at U. of T. He suggests there will be no rapture (as understood traditionally ) , and that the age to come will be a union of the heaven and the ‘new’ earth, where we will exist in ‘spiritual’ bodies.

He said many more things, but I was thinking about this one particularly. There is a prevailing theology (which is a sort of Gnosticism) whereby Christians get to flee the world as it self-destructs. But consider the following:

1. The New Jerusalem is going to be ‘let down’ from heaven. Who is going to live in it?
2. Why is God has God established his kingdom on earth if at the return of Christ (an the fulfillment of all things) there is not going to be any one to be in the kingdom?
3. The crated order is ‘groaning’ in anticipation of the right ordering of the cosmos. (Romans 8) The creation is groaning for man to rule and serve it the way God intended. (N.T. Wright)
4. The Bible asserts a new heaven and a new earth.
5. Inheritance as sons (and daughters) of God. This inheritance is also ‘the nations.’

This means that Christians are to anticipate a renewed (or new) earth in their actions, and avoid (among other things) attempts to preserve God’s kingdom by dropping bombs on evil.

-C.D. Clements

On Phish Rocking Out

2006-04-22T19:20:00.000-07:00

Please Dig these Pictures of Phish, live in Vegas, 2000 - 09- 30.

-C.D. Clements

On Community

2006-04-22T19:15:00.000-07:00

I am now ending a four year stay in the dormitory of Tyndale University/College and Seminary. Two of these years were spent in the capacity of a ‘residence advisor’. Here is a very brief reflection on my experience:

Christian Community is purposed for:
A) Relating to God
B) Relating and Ministering to each other. (in good times/bad; the idea of ‘being’ or ‘peregrinatio’, which is apparently Latin for ‘pilgrimage’) Relating to one another has to do with being honest and vulnerable (commonly termed ‘real’). Ministering (in a tiny nutshell) is the renewing of the image of God on a person’s life.
C) For inner healing & giving one’s self character definition. Please note: God defines the person, but others are certainly are employed by God in the process.
D) Equipping for ministry
E) Having lots of Fun

Role of the Individual Christian in Community
A) Commune with God (devotion, covenant faithfulness/experience)
B) Co-Facilitation of a community where ALL members belong. (Co-Facilitation in the sense that fellow man and God are also involved in act)
C) Self-Sacrifice (in many capacities. Two specifically: 1) The only way one can get what one wants consistently is in isolation, which is not pleasant. 2) Service is a Christian moral imperative)
D) Enjoy the community and its benefits.
E) Realize one’s commitment to God and one another in trial.

The Tyndale residence experience is something that has given my person definition is various appreciated aspects. Living in an intentional Christian community (in my opinion) is an anticipation (albeit fallen anticipation) of Heaven where we will know God perfectly and one another perfectly.

Two Notes:

A) This is my reflection, as oppoesd to a widely accepted systematic theology excerpt.

B) Read: Ephesians, Chapter 2; Life Together - Bonhoeffer

-C.D. Clements.

On Josh Healey

2006-04-22T18:47:00.000-07:00

Josh Healey has told me on several occasions to reconstitute this blog. I have heeded his words and re-post with the understanding that it is useful to keep in touch and discuss over long distances with a blog.

-C.D. Clements