30

On Sunday, November 7th I turned 30 years old. I am 30. That will take some getting use to.

I've barely had time to think about this milestone. This past weekend I attended the Call to Action conference in Milwaukee, WI. I can't fully describe the energy and passion I found in the people there, those hurt and wounded, joyful and happy, but all seeking and yearning for inclusive and just Church. This year - after much prodding - we were able to get a "young adult" keynote speaker in Shane Claiborne. Look him up - what an inspiration! He absolutely hit the ball out of the park with this message of being in solidarity with the poor, living in community, and striving to ask good questions about ourselves and God. Asra Nomani, a young adult progressive Muslim woman, talked about her experience being in an oppressive environment and finding no support or solace in her church community. Finally, on Sunday of the conference, Sr. Joan Chittister spoke on faith and church today. All of them were simply inspiring!

An analogy from conference that I liked had to do with the Church being like Noah's ark. Can you imagine what it was like in the ark? The Church, like Noah's ark, smells. It can reek. Yet, we are all in it together, and if we get out we drown. We can do something about the stench. This, my friends, is what call to action was about - doing something about the "church stench" in the Catholic church. To be sure - and to be fair - there was much celebrated about the Catholic Tradition at Call to Action. Ritual. Saints. Prophets. Progress. Vatican II. Yet, as many know all too well, the odor lingers. We are called to act!

I returned home on Sunday from conference to celebrate my 30th birthday. Jeb and I went and picked up my iPad that I have been saving for, he took me to dinner, and we ended up at Marble Slab Ice Cream. Last night several colleagues and friends helped me celebrate by gathering at Jake Melnick's Pub for happy hour, beverages, and half price appetizers. I do know one thing from the last week: I am blessed and loved. I am blessed and loved by a God that created me in his/her image and likeness - and calls me to continue to work on behalf of justice in his Kingdom. I am blessed and loved my many family and friends who see much in me. I am truly thankful.

The picture below depicts a banner the CTA 20/30 group used at conference which asked, "What are YOU waiting for?" in our church and society. Take a peek if you like.

Thank you for all who helped make my birthday special and memorable.

Peace always.

Das Boot

This past weekend Jeb and I attended a wedding for my cousin Matt (and his new bride Kim) in Kansas City. As all "Hoffmann weddings" go, we celebrated in grand style while incorporating some family traditions. Let me share a few with you:

1) When the song We Are Family is played everyone is expected to take the dance floor. No excuses, no exemptions. By the end of the song most non-family has abandoned the dance floor (I don't blame them, that's a lot of big ass flying around!).

2) As is the case in classy weddings, during the reception and meal it is not uncommon to see things flying from table to table. How else would be entertain ourselves?

3) This may be custom at other weddings, too, but the "Hoffmann guys" often find themselves dancing naughty around the bride with some clothes being shed for the enjoyment of others. Maybe enjoyment is overstated.

4) Perhaps the biggest "new tradition" is the fact that, at some point during "open bar hours," a large glass boot is filled with 7-Up and Seagram's (in honor of our Grandfather) and is passed around for all to enjoy. Like the chalice at mass, this is the communal cup of offering (Orthodox friends, don't get fired up, the analogy breaks down in several areas, rest assured). Anyone can partake as long as you remember to: a) never put the boot back down once it is picked up, b) take a hearty sip, and c) flick the glass boot before passing. Around it goes, for as long as it's full! This is one way to honor our German heritage. It doesn't hurt that the "honoring of heritage" moves the party right along, either.

The party did move - on and on. Some family members did the "after party," or in this case the "after wedding reception" in a hotel suite on the 14th floor. I am old of course (turning 30 in two weeks!) so needed some rest. As a friend of mine said when she was 22 - I just can't take it like I use to. Inside joke aside, it's true for me at 30. Don't worry, friends, as I got plenty of dancing and drinking in as the DJ mixed all night (this may be shocking to some, but I could have done without the half hour Madonna medley).

Medley or not, we had fun. We're a unique family that enjoys having fun together. Our "traditions" testify to this fact. We're mindful, too, that we do all this in celebration of and acknowledgment around Matt & Kim's love to and for each other, and the fact that they'll, too, be joining in future family traditions.

Some pictures from the night ...

This is the Season!

I had a lovely Saturday. After being at Jeb's last night for the Sufjan Stevens concert I got home this morning to quickly shower and clean up before meeting a friend for a late morning coffee and meeting to discuss my work at Call to Action. If you aren't aware, I am the CTA 20/30 marketing chair and help the organization do outreach to progressive young adult Catholics. A part of my role is working with the national organization staff (headquartered here in Chicago) to devise and implement strategies aimed and letting people know there are "liberal Catholics" out there who stand for radical inclusion and justice for all - and of course to welcome and invite them to share in our vision and mission.

As I left the coffee shop and began my walk home I felt good about the meeting. I also felt blessed and honored to have the privilege of working on important issues related to Church and faith. As I continued to walk the tree-lined sidewalk, I immediately sensed the brisk air, the colors around me, and, looking around, the Halloween garb and autumn decorations. I sighed. I was overcome by a feeling of gratitude. I always sense the divine most strongly in the fall/autumn season, but this was the first time this fall that I really connected to God's outpouring, God's sharing of God's self with me through my work at CTA and this wonderful season of harvest. I kept walking and kept sighing. I kept thanking, too, for all life has given me. My harvest has already been plentiful! While the holiday of Thanksgiving is more than a month away, I had my own early "giving thanks" ritual this afternoon. I entered more deeply into this season - and into my own life - than I have in awhile. I'm thankful for that good place.

This week I started journeying in a small faith sharing group with 3 others who are making the Spiritual Exercises retreat. Since I made the retreat myself 4 years ago I've been involved since by either companioning someone or being a small group facilitator. I like both. I like the fact that I get to "re-experience" the retreat anew each year in different ways - with different people. I don't facilitate, really. Rather, like the others, I attempt to create a space and openness to walk around in all that life has lead me to in that moment. Sharing that in a faithful community is transforming. Please pray for myself and the others who are making the retreat.

Finally, if you haven't had a chance to read my latest e-reflection "Attending to Our Restlessness" feel free to check that out. My "professional blog" is www.ryanhoffmann.com and you can catch the reflection there.

Later this week I'll be gearing up for my cousin Matt's wedding in Kansas City. As all "lead ushers" must do, I am heading southwest to get'em through and sit'em down. I've had some practice at this - isn't there a saying that goes something like "Always the usher, never the ...." Maybe not. I am just excited to see family and looking forward to the celebration. There will be celebrating.

I hope you are in a good place, too.

Peace always.

Bandage Your Nipples?

I am beginning this post by drawing my readers' attention to the fact that the Catholic Bishops in Minnesota have been acting out against Gay and Lesbian faithful in their state this past couple weeks. Call to Action notes the following:

In the last month alone:

• Archbishop Nienstedt of the St. Paul-Minneapolis Archdiocese worked with a national anti-gay political organization and, along with other bishops in the state, sent hundreds of thousands of DVDs to Catholic households condemning the freedom to marry for same-gender couples
• An artist-in-residence at St. Mary's Basilica in St. Paul was suspended for her desire to create an art installation with some of the same DVDs.
• A group of students, women religious and a monk who wore rainbow ribbons and emblems were denied communion by Archbishop Nienstedt.

Unfortunately, I am not surprised my church continues to oppress and outright persecute Gay and Lesbian faithful. Their campaign here is like many they have orchestrated before. I ask people to speak out - raise this to consciousness where and when possible - to send a message that hate will not be tolerated. Send a message that love, that which God intended for everyone, is what Catholic really is about. I continue to pray for those who think exclusion is a form of love.

On a lighter note, Jeb and I got a Nintendo Wii on Friday evening (Jeb mainly, but I told him I would be happy to play along). We were up late Saturday evening trying out all the fitness options: running, snow ball fights, balance tests, yoga, and more. I was liking it! If you don't know much about Wii, it comes with an elevated platform that intuits your movement - how you lean, how much you weigh, etc. It can pretty much read all your body movements. I am not so sure this is a good thing - there are some parts of my body that don't move, and I would like it to stay that way. Nonetheless, it was fun to see all the tricks you can do (skateboarding, really!?). We haven't gotten any games yet (I really want Mario Brothers - old school!), but we are saving up for a couple we want to play together. The Wii is at Jeb's right now but I imagine it will be making it's way north for a few nights soon.

One final note. The Chicago Marathon was this weekend. I admire those who like to run - but for that long? Apparently you have to put bandaids over your nipples so as not to make your nipples bleed. Is this really necessary? Natural? Run that long? On top of that, I constantly heard ambulances coming in and out of the "run zone." Granted some of this could be heat related (why has it decided to be almost 90 degrees in October?), but - apparently again - this is normal for marathons. Really, ambulances? I guess this is a culture I just don't get (and it has more to do with the fact that I can't run - down the block). Even so, congratulations to all who made it out alive. You are to be commended.

Peace always.

Northwest Adventure

I arrived back in Chicago last night after a week in Washington, Oregon, and California. Jeb and I had an amazing time on the trip. We were a little "aggressive" in our planning, but were able to cover a lot of ground on the trip. If you are a facebooker, I've posted most of the pictures there for you to check out. I will include a few here as well.

A short re-cap and highlights:

After arriving in Seattle last Saturday, we checked into the Green Tortoise hostel. I don't mind community living and sharing space, but I've outgrown sharing a BEDROOM with someone - let alone strangers. We made due, however, and even got to know our bed mates some (many slept during the day and went out at night, as you might imagine, we did the opposite). Our hostel was located right across the street from Pike's Public Market which was absolutely outstanding. So much FRESH fish, meats, and produce. We ventured to the Seattle underground tour later that night and looked at all the "underground paths" that made up Seattle during various infrastructure building (we got the FULL history of the crapper and how - literally - people were blown off their crapper by an influx in water pressure coming UP the toilet). With the ocean bank literally right there, and Seattle notoriously poor at planning, we heard many stories of mishap with regards to sanitation, sewer, and ancient living. The tour is amazing; I highly recommend this!

The next two days were spent camping at Mt. Rainier. The weather wasn't great for viewing the peak, but on the last day it came out and we could see the entire mount. We drove up and down the winding roads, stopping at vistas and pull-outs to get pictures of the natural world located around the park. I can't describe Mt. Rainier ... as the video we watched at the information center pointed out, it does have a way of making you speechless with its massive body. It does control the weather in the area, stopping storm systems and altering weather patterns. If you get a chance to do Mt. Rainier I recommend it - it's something unlike anything you'll ever see. The camping was great, although, as you might suspect, a hot shower was VERY welcomed after a few days of roughing it. We did have flush-able toilets and running water, but that was a hike and not that conducive to cleaning. For those who know me this was a challenge. :)

After some camping, the next two days consisted of driving the coast in Oregon and California. This was perhaps my favorite part of the trip. We took the beautiful coastal highway and got to pull in the many nooks and crannies along the way, taking in the ocean sights. We managed to see Haystack Rock and stayed at an awesome hotel overlooking the ocean (our balcony literally looked out to the water). We took some time away from the natural scene to visit an arcade and have pizza one night. After Jeb managed to win a Green Bay Packets football (I was pissed!) I made him win the Chicago Bears one before we left. Check! We had the two footballs on the dash of our rental Jeep the entire time (this was especially fun after hearing of the BEARS victory on Monday night football over the Packers). While internet and phone access was spotty along the coast we were just grateful to be connected to the world again after absolutely no service at Mt. Rainier.

After making our way down the coast and stopping to see the sights, we finally ended up in San Francisco. I could live in SF! The city is absolutely amazing with great culture and history. Our "SF in one day" tour took us to the SF Museum of Modern Art, Fisherman's Wharf, Ferry Building and Markets, Alamo Square (Full House Painted Ladies), Haight Street (where the hippie movement started), and of course China town and Little Italy. We also found the Cathedral in SF and spent some time in there looking at the stellar modern architecture and the beautifully displayed stations of the cross. It was good, too, to just spend some time in quiet as the city all around is hustling and bustling. SF is simply electric.

While a bit exhausted from the trip, I feel renewed for what the fall has in store. I feel blessed for this time and adventure. I am grateful for the many wonderful gifts the Northwest has to offer the world!

Enjoy the pictures. Peace always.

Da Bears

I admit I've been a little hard on the Chicago Bears lately. It may have been justified, however, as they didn't even win a pre-season game (not that that counts for much). Their first game left a lot to be desired (e.g., whether or not we had any resemblance of an offense). As it turns out, not only can we execute offensive plays for positive yardage, we can win games doing so. I was as surprised as anyone. I ran errands Sunday afternoon only to come home to flip on the TV and see the bears WINNING late in the 3rd quarter against the much talked about (but rarely good) Dallas Cowboys. The Dallas offense was suppose to be lethal. Their defense was talked about us "superbowl caliber." Neither were true. Instead, the Bears put together (finally!) a complete game to win - on the road mind you. They say teams improve the most between game 1 and game 2 in a season. Gauging from the Bears most recent performance that couldn't be more true. We'll see where this new found success leads. After all, the Bears play the Packers at home next Monday evening on Monday night football. You can bet people will be hyped up about the game. I am just hoping the Bears can win with consistency. At the very least, we know they have it in them.

I leave for the great Northwest on Saturday. Packing has begun! It will be no small feat getting ourselves and our gear out there. That's part of the fun, right?

I managed to make great progress on my PhD personal statement this weekend. I've sent it off today for feedback and editing. I am excited about it. It took a few weeks to get it in the form and style (not withstanding the content) I wanted it to be in, but the pieces have come together. I hope to have the statement finalized by October, recommendations gathered in November, and all materials submitted by December 1st. Things aren't due, technically, until after the holidays but I'd rather just sit back, relax, and hope for good news.

Stay tuned for commentary and pictures from the great Northwest!

Peace always.

Hit that Line ... Every Yard for ISU!

I'm sitting in my office this wonderful Friday morning with my window open taking in the crisp autumn air. I love it! I know some are dreading the slide into fall and winter, but I am one who looks forward to this season every year - autumn weather, changing leaves, football season, holidays, new school beginning, and more. It's here; I am enjoying!

Jeb and I saw Avator at the Navy Pier IMAX last weekend. I absolutely loved it. As you might suspect, I was inclined to analyze the movie from a theological perspective after it finished. I was most struck by the incarnational nature of the world espoused in the movie. If we all - truly - felt connected to everyone and everything what an amazing world that would be. More than anything, I was moved by the "creature people's" connection to and intentionality around living a tradition in line with their best selves - and their best hopes for a future united together in shared prosperity. I am sure much is out there (already) with regards to the connections in theology in the movie. If I have time, I may see what's out there this week. If you haven't seen the movie, plan to do that sometime soon.

I didn't have class this week due to the Labor Day holiday on Monday. In true Ryan fashion, I spend this extra time gathering outside resources and reading up on the history and evolution of the Christian Trinity. I know, doesn't that get you going!? I will admit, I find the relationship between the immanent and the economic trinity fascinating. How we came to see the Trinity - both in its internal relationships and what it means practically - is interesting. How does one reconcile Christian monotheism with Christ's divinity? More to come, I'm sure.

I've been busy preparing for Jeb and I's trip to the Northwest, too. We've committed to not staying in hotels on this trip. Rather, I've booked a few rooms at hostels, and Jeb is taking care of booking some camping. We are renting a car and driving from Seattle to San Francisco in a week, stopping along the way to catch the sights and sounds of the great US Northwest. We've determined we'll do Seattle for a day, drive to Olympus National Park, Mt. Rainer, then go ocean side for a couple days, ending up in San Francisco for the final couple days. Our hostel in Seattle is across the street from Pike's place, and her hostel in San Francisco is near the bay, walkable distance to Chinatown, Little Italy, Fisherman's Wharf and more. I'm excited. If you are thinking about traveling to the Northwest and don't mind staying in a hostel I would recommend checking out Green Tortoise - safe, clean, comfortable, and inexpensive.

One small note - Iowa State plays Iowa tomorrow in football. Go Cyclones!

O we will fight, fight, fight for Iowa State,
And may her colors ever fly.
Yes, we will fight with might for Iowa State,
With a will to do or die,
Rah! Rah! Rah!
Loyal sons forever true,
And we will fight the battle through.
And when we hit that line we'll hit it hard
ev'ry yard for I.S.U.

Peace always.

Grateful for Lasting Friendship

I was able to re-connect with friends from my time at Iowa State this weekend while at a wedding in Lawrence, KS. One of my cohort members got married. Time for a party!

We did party, too. Friday night when I got in, after having dinner with my brother, I went over to my friend Kate's. The fire was cracking and the s'mores were delicious. Of course we started out by having a few beers at the house first (around the campfire) before heading out to one of Lawrence's fine pubs. We managed to connect with the wedding party here and re-unite, once again, as one of the best cohorts to graduate from the Iowa State higher education program.

Saturday was spent prepping for Saturday night's festivities. After a slow morning we met up for lunch, walked downtown Lawrence, did some house visits, and made our way to Walmart to get some "old man caps" for game-time (I mean, wedding time).

The wedding ceremony was very basic. Unlike many of the Catholic weddings I attend with much rhetoric and symbol, this was very straight-forward and simple. At the end of it all, I found the simplicity attractive. While I still very much enjoy Catholic ritual, it's nice to be able to step back and re-examine what's important. For me, it was being present as they declared love.

The party moved to the University of Kansas Alumni Center where we were greeted with good food, great toasts, and of course a phenomenal open bar. It was wide open! It was fun. I am still sore, and very tired, but it was worth it. And yes, the old man caps (which the groom often wore in Ames) made their appearance to great wonderment and support of the older patrons. SHAKING the behind takes on new meaning when you are donning a hat to go with it! Pictures posted soon.

Thanks, Iowa State / Kansas friends, for an incredible weekend.

I am grateful for our lasting friendship.

Back to School

This update will be a hodgepodge of items. I apologize in advance for its randomness.

If you were me - and everyone else in Chicago - you were captivated by the Blagojevich verdict this week. It's true that he was only convicted of one count - lying to FBI agents. Let me repeat: he was convicted of one count. What's worse is that he is traveling the country speaking of himself as a victim. A victim!? Come on now. While I wasn't a part of the jury, I'd like to have a few words with those that were. Seriously, fellow citizens, after hearing those tapes you (at least some of you, anyway) voted to acquit? There are many times I don't understand human nature and many times I don't get human rationale. This is one of those times. For more on "blagopalooza" check out the link below. Folks, this is windy city politics. Double emphasis on windy.

Blagopalooza

Professional football season has begun. I caught some of the Bears - Raiders preseason game last night while out to dinner. As a Bears fan I couldn't be more underwhelmed. At the risk of judging this team too soon, I'll stop here.

Like the temperature in Chicago lately, work has been sizzling. It's that time of year again for me - last minute students scurrying to get admitted before classes start on August 30th. They only need one more letter of recommendation, their transcripts are being over-nighted, they'll write their personal statement tonight, and so the stories (you can't even imagine the stories!) go. I try - I try hard - to get good candidates in and settled into classes. This past week was crazy. This next week will be crazy, too. This always happens in August. I shouldn't complain; I realize we need students and, at least this year anyway, they seem to be plentiful and eager to learn (if they could only muster up that final letter of recommendation, of course).

I am heading back to school on August 30th as well. I am taking a PhD level class (systematics) entitled the Mystery of God by someone who received his PhD from, and has taught at, Harvard. I figure as I continue to discern PhD in theology studies why not start out with a bang. In all seriousness, I am nervous. And excited. Scared, too. Anxious as well. I figure if I am going to put all the time, energy, sweat and tears into something like a PhD I better really want it. I am hoping this class provides needed clarity - either a you got what it takes go for it or maybe a you should look into something else that utilizes your gifts and talents.

Finally, I did my "back to school" clothes shopping yesterday. I am fazing out cotton khakish pants for wool/micro-fiber dress slacks; I knew you'd want to know of this startling development. Dress slacks keep longer, maintain better, and wrinkle less. When it comes to clothes I need all the help I can get. I'm nearly 30 and still love "back to school" season.

I am in Kansas City this coming weekend.

Peace always.

Mazel Tov!

I've been drawn to tea lately (please note this is in no reference to the U.S tea party and their ideological beliefs). As the 'dog days' of summer begin to flourish, I can't help but thinking often of sitting down to read with a fresh class of ice tea. Yet, when searching for recipes on how to make this perfect pitcher, I was amazed at how inconsistent the 'callings' for tea bags are. Some recipes - 3 bags seeping for 5 minutes. Others, 4-6 bags for 7 minutes. Yet others, 8 bags for 10 minutes. Even others, 16 (16!) bags for 5 minutes. I get it relies on preference, but really!? Perhaps the tea world could standardize some of this - for all of us 'northern amateurs' wanting a crisp glass of that perfect ice tea.

I attended a Korean - Jewish wedding last night. It was a blast! It was so wonderful to see these two families and their respective cultures come together in celebration. The wedding ceremony, rituals, music, food and people were so unique, welcoming, and rich in tradition and symbol. In the mainly German-Irish Catholic weddings I attend I don't often get a chance to see differing worlds collide like this. From the honoring of the parents in the serving of the tea to the mazel tov glass breaking, I was captivated (and humbled, really) at Damien and Susie's joining and new union and married life together. I wish them all the best; I was honored to be a part of their special day.

I am tired of oppressive heat. I long for the days of autumn weather, fall football, changing leaves, etc. I know, "there is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven." I can still look longingly for days of seeing your breathe and sweatshirts and jeans. I wonder if I'll want my glass of tea then.

Peace always.

It's been awhile ...

Above - me enjoying some corn-on-the-cob at the Taste of Chicago in July.

Some of you have asked for more blog postings. I guess it is fair to say it's been awhile since my last "life update." I apologize for this; I've gotten caught up in life - classes, travels, Loyola work, work with Call to Action, etc. All good things, but nevertheless time consuming. Alas!

I've made it a goal to blog once again. You may not get one of my profound reflections every week (lucky for you, right?), but I do pledge to be more mindful of those I don't interact with on a daily and weekly basis and that you, too, wish to know what's happening in my small corner of the world. If you are ever hungry for more, a good place to start would be my facebook page.

www.facebook.com/rynhof

I've also recently begun a professional/academic website. Feel free to go there to check-out the latest theological reflections and ministerial ponderings. As I write for classes and blogs (and other assorted venues) I hope to take bits and pieces and post for your perusal. It's likely I'll cross-post, too.

www.ryanhoffmann.com

It's been a busy summer. In May I hastily prepared for my sister's wedding (being the lead usher was quite the chore), my aunt and uncle from Australia to visit, and small trips back to Iowa to hang out at my aunt and uncle's "lakeside resort." June was spent wedding - ing (I do remember the drive home, believe it or not) and lakeside resort - ing. I enjoyed the boat rides, quiet time reading at the lake house, grill-outs, and yes, even my mega bus rides to and from Iowa. I was away from Chicago the majority of June; I loved my time back home with family and friends. For pictures of my Iowa excursions, my facebook page has ample to preview.

I re-nested in July, committing to not leaving Chicago for the month of July (I needed some home time after my month away!). It was great to connect with Chicago friends and do Chicago things: baseball games, festivals, lakeside bike rides, swimming in the lake, etc. Summer truly is a great time in Chicago! I did break my promise to stay in Chicago all month - it was for a good reason. Jeb and I headed south to visit my good friend Andy (aka Mr. Miller). Drive-in movie, time spent at the state park, county fair mud races, a stop in Champaign, IL on the way back all made for an eventful trip. I did miss the socks factory tour; I'll be back. You got it, pictures on facebook!

This is a small update ... but an update nonetheless. My hope is that this blog kicks off many to follow. I did miss blogging. I hope you missed hearing from me.

Peace always.

Shuttle - I've Missed You!

You know how much I love my commute downtown on the Loyola Shuttle - I love it a lot!

The shuttle doesn't run in the summer months as too few students are around. These are the months I keep the CTA bus tracker handy while getting ready in the morning continuously update myself on where the 147 is - and where it will be when I need it. Although the bus tracker is extremely convenient, the times are not always spot on as traffic lives and breathes a life of its own. Yet, I know that I have 12 minutes - sometimes 13 minutes - to make it from the door of my apartment to Sheridan Road to catch the bus. Sometimes I have to haul-ass, and if you know anything about how I am built, you know it's not always easy to bring up the speed to a "comfortable cruising pace." Speaking of comfortable, while the CTA tries, it's not always the most enjoyable ride when confronted with packed-in patrons, phones ringing, and the ever-so-sassy CTA voice marking stop after stop. *This bus runs express to downtown, standing passengers, please hold on at all times* Sitting passengers - please hold on at all times, too!

With the new semester has come the opportunity to ride again the Loyola Shuttle bus to and from work. While I am often the oldest person on the bus many mornings, I enjoy getting on to plenty of seats, relative quiet, and folks with books and notepads out studying and reading and highlighting and drawing and memorizing and ... you get the picture. This is my kind of atmosphere! This may sound like a slice of hell to many. Really - this is heaven? Boring! Not for me. It's my "morning time" to collect myself, center my thoughts, and if I want to read or write or listen to music - or anything else for that matter - I can do that. In the past I've tried to create a morning routine. These days, however, I do/go with whatever moves me. Some days I love to stare out at the life around me, other days I read for class, while others I just find myself lost in tunes on my I-POD. Whatever comes to me, I'm able to be lost in myself, something I don't know that we (as in the collective) do often enough. This is my time.

I've missed my time this summer. The CTA just doesn't lend itself to this like the shuttle does. I don't blame them, they do good with the resources they have to work with. Yet, this morning, "shuttling" to work, I've become aware of just how important my time is to me. Perhaps you have something like this in your life. If you don't, it may be worth exploring ways to have you time.

I've missed you, Loyola Shuttle.

Thank You, Senator Kennedy

* * *

To live the Gospel message is not easy. To advocate loudly for all while maintaining a quiet, consistent faith takes courage. As I watched Ted Kennedy's funeral this morning I teared up, calling to mind the life of a man who 'got' what it meant to be a person for others - all others.

* * *

I know my brother Ted rests in peace.
I pray his prophetic vision for America continues to instill hope.
Above all, I thank God for the gifts Senator Kennedy shared with so many.

* * *
"For all those whose cares have been our concern, the work goes on, the cause endures, the hope still lives, and the dream shall never die."

-Sen. Ted Kennedy
1980 Democratic National Convention

Fall Line-Up

There comes a time in late summer/early fall where folks get excited about the upcoming fall line-up on TV. I must admit, I enjoy the hoopla around what new shows are beginning, what is being dropped, and how many comedies, dramas, satires, parodies, reality shows et al. are being offered. We often peruse the "line-up cards" weeks before; many even schedule their week around favorite shows. While I don't organize life around TV, I do get jazzed about what show will resonate, which character I will find myself in, and how my favorite show's plot will evolve and unfold. TV in moderation helps us escape the stresses of life!

Along with TV, traveling to visit family and friends helps me escape the stress of classes and work and allows me to get out of the hustle and bustle of the city. I thought I would share my fall line-up:

+ September 3-6: Traveling back to Iowa for family gathering & ISU football. Go Cyclones!

+ September 11-13: Traveling to Belleville, IL to help celebrate my friend Adam's birthday.

+ September 25-27: My sister Jackie and friend are in town for a PINK concert.

+ October 2-4: Traveling to Kansas City for ISU v KSU football and ISU reunion.

+ October 22-25: Traveling to New York to visit my friend Melissa.

+ October 30-Nov 1: Traveling to Nashville, IN to do Halloween with Scoots and Jesse.

+ November 6-8: Ryan's birthday festivities in Chicago. Bears game!

+ November 26-29: Traveling to Kansas City for Thanksgiving.

There may be other smaller trips in there, too. But for now, that's quite the line-up!

I'm angry, too!

I'm angry, too!

If you've been paying attention to American politics lately you know the turmoil and strife around the healthcare debate. President Obama favors a system whereby all are required to have health insurance, and as you might suspect, the neo-con right has begun hijacking public discourse. In many ways, they are holding conversation hostage. I'm angry!

You know me - I don't much care for the conservative "neo-con" traditionalistic approach, a vision hell bent on fostering exclusivity, claiming patriotism for itself, undermining true American values such as education and tolerance, and economic prosperity for all, not just those lucky and fortunate enough to have been given access to the "golden ladder" of success. I don't prescribe to this worldview.

This time - instead of coming up with their own healthcare reform plan (they simply don't have one!) - conservatives are infiltrating democratic town halls with the goal to disrupt and create chaos, shout, yell, and scream, even shove and kick if it gets the point across. As many pundits have rightly pointed out, it reminds us of McCain-Palin campaign tactics: if you scream communist and yell traitor enough it comes true. Instead of engage in responsible and respectable discourse, we have the fringe right going around the country barging in sincere town hall discussions, wrecking havoc and bantering. Is this what it's come to?

It's true that they say - those who are afraid of change get stuck in fear. Those who are a fan of the status quo (in this country, an overabundance of straight white middle to upper-class men, who also happen to be the base of the Republican party) scream "NO" at every junction, resort backwards at every cross-roads to what is familiar and comfortable, a well-off position as patriarchs in a money dominated society. It's no wonder they are desperate. Americans can choose something different.

We may or may not get healthcare reform. If America gets caught up in fear tactics and desperation (think Bush-Cheney!) it won't happen. I'm not saying all democratic ideas are the best, I'm simply claiming ground to explore and discuss, negotiate, build consensus, re-examine our country's values and ethos. It's a shame this is being held hostage. A shame!

I'm angry too!

A Taste of Summer

I've accumulated pictures over the summer. Some I've shared and posted before, some I haven't. These "randoms" seem to have been left out of other galleries. So enjoy - a taste of Ryan's summer!

Some UNI friends traveled to Chicago in May for a "Cinco de Mayo" party on "Ocho de Mayo." The weekend was hilarious - fiesta!


My friend Adam visited Chicago in June - a day at a Chicago beach!

Brunch one sunny Sunday morning! Priceless!

While in Des Moines, awakened to friends barging in the room. It WAS restful!

I'm ready for some swimming action! Indoor heated pool here I come!

Believe it or not, I have done some work this summer (Ryan's office).

Things That Last

I can't believe we are on the "backside" of 2009. In less than 6 months 2010 will usher in a new decade. I can't help but look back with nostalgia. At this point in my life, ten years ago, I had just graduated high school, was living at home and working at a local convenience store, and was gearing up for my first year at the University of Northern Iowa beginning my undergraduate career. What's in ten years?

I've undoubtedly changed in the last 10 years. I won't try and catalog all that has happened, nor could I really, as too much has gone on. As I look back, peer over what has become of family and friends, work and hobbies, faith-life and journeys -- and much more -- I find myself generally content with where life has led me. Of course there have been disappointments, reconciliations and healing, challenges and strife and the myriad of other ways life has humanized and humbled. I'm grateful for these experiences, too, as wisdom is often espoused in teaching/learning moments.

Where has the trajectory of life pointed after ten years?

Without being overly philosophical, I've recently been reminded of - taken stock of, really - things that last. Who/what are the things that last? Who/what (really) matters? The old adage is true: the only thing permanent about life is change; the only thing that doesn't change is change. If this is true, what threads itself through our being and collective? What constitutes the ultimate backdrop and ever elusive horizon of life? What is the mystery and more all about?

I admit I have more questions than answers. This is to be expected I guess. As one "evolves," one realizes hard answers are only illusions. Life is in the questions, perhaps not even the right questions. The process, I'm convinced, is where Grace and consolation nestle itself, hide out for further discerning and meaning making. My process has illuminated that truth, for which many fight about and wage war, is subjective in the here and now, in the existential reality in which we find ourselves. There is likely an ultimate truth, as I, too, believe in an ontological "more and mystery" many name God, but the corporal (societal governance's, church institutions, etc.) only know a piece, are gifted with a morsel, understand a kernel of the human condition and divine majesty.

So what are the things that last? I have some hunches.

1) God is love, perhaps this only.

2) Relationships sustain. We need each other, more than we'll admit.

3) Injustice is humanity's chronic condition. Feeling with, and being about, those on the margins is perhaps the biggest Grace one can ever receive.

4) Ongoing openness to conversion is necessary, takes time (sometimes a lot of time!), and supports and challenges new learnings and ways of being.

There are others, I'm sure. I have as limited knowledge of and insight into the world as others. Yet, limited doesn't mean unimportant or arbitrary. It simply means incomplete, something I rely on others and God to "fill-in." Only the more can really fill-in completely. Get comfortable being incomplete - it's not a deficiency, its gift; it points us towards things that matter.

Ten years after graduating high school, I can't help but nod to the past, affirming things that sustain, and gazing towards the future with new eyes. This, all in ten years.

Vacation & Back

The past week has been a busy one!

I traveled back home to Iowa on Friday, hung out with my parents last weekend, saw some UNI friends on Monday and Tuesday, came back to Chicago on Wednesday, and took part in the Loyola service day project and picnic on Thursday and Friday. Phew!

I loved being home last weekend! I was able to spend time with my Dad out on the farm. I drove the 4-wheeler, checked out the cattle, rescued lost calves, and did "fence checks" in the pasture. My Dad and I even got in some fishing (I didn't catch anything!). Later that day, I learned how to operate a dixon lawn mower, mowed the lawn, and was able to do some touch ups on the landscape. One friend of mine commented sarcastically, "Wow, sounds like a great vacation." As I thought more about it I genuinely agreed - I never get to experience anymore vast cornfields, mingle with animals, do yard work, enjoy flowers and shrubbery, and the like. It was actually a very therapeutic and relaxing weekend. More than anything, I enjoyed time with the parents and time at home, kicking back and relaxing, talking and chatting, catching up and bonding. Relaxing indeed!

A few pictures from the past couple days:

Indian Disco - Take I

It takes me weeks to get excited about doing laundry. I peer over to the laundry basket with shame - I should have done laundry weeks ago! It's one of those things in life - a psychological block if you will - that I can't explain. I think I've even blogged about it before - although not a difficult task I just hate everything about it. Was today a breakthrough?

I woke from an amazing night's sleep and peered over to the laundry basket. To my dismay, it was still exactly where it always, in the closet brimming with a few weeks of laundry. I heard the Rocky music begin playing in my head - today I will overcome! I will triumph! One of the reasons I hate doing laundry is the few and unreliable facilities at my apartment complex. I will overcome! I packed up the heavy load and waddled out the door, laundry bag bashing into the posterior and book bag hugging my back. I was on my way to triumph - the laundromat.

Pulling into the parking lot, I unload the laundry without the use of a skid loader. Apparently, these are not on hand to help with un-docking. Laundry in toe, I tootle in to greet my new community. Upon entering I hear Indian disco music playing loudly over the speakers and am welcomed by several neighborhood residents - an eclectic but extremely nice group. I spot the "jumbo washers" at the back and head confidently towards triumph - it's in site!

On my way to the back I meet Clarissa, a nice older black woman who seems to be the community's matriarch. She exudes class and sass and has garnered the respect of those there. She introduces herself and proceeds to tell me how things work there (no, she is not an employee - Rashid was the attendant on duty - thus the reason for disco laundry Saturdays at Suds n' More, emphasis on more, much more!). I am thankful for Clarissa's commentary - and eager welcome -- and finally arrive at jumbo washer #52. I am overcoming!

I am able to put in all my clothes in one washing machine - they are serious about the jumbo status - this is no joke. I put the money into the machine but nothing happened. I tap, pat, kick, tap, pat, kick - nothing! Clarissa calmly saunters over to assist - this is what matriarchs do. Apparently the door didn't close properly, or at all. Apparently shutting the machine's door required. I iswill overcome. While Clarissa uses her busty booty - a feature I can tell she is proud of by the sight of her g-string popping out of her tight jeans - to slam the door, Rashid stands and stairs at me. A bit uncomfortable, I ask Rashid if something is wrong. There wasn't. Do all new patrons get this "service?"

I strike up a conversation with Clarissa about how the dryers work. They tumble and dry, I know this much. She eyes the laundry in jumbo turbo washing machine #52 and exhorts that 0.50 cents will do. While it took 0.75, she wasn't far off. With Rashid smiling from ear to ear, and Clarissa holding down the fort -- don't forget to cue Indian rhapsody in the back -- I bring my experience, and time with my new community, to an end. A morning spent at the laundry mat almost makes doing laundry fun. Fun!?

While leaving I thank Clarissa for her assistance and Rashid for "keeping it real." I say goodbye to a couple other folks as well. I'm almost sad to leave. I am, however, relieved. I'm triumphal!

This may be the start of something good. A breakthrough?

Chicago Summer

It's been awhile, I know this. You are right, I can at times (long periods of time) suck at blogging. There are times when I am writing so much for my classes that I lack the motivation to write here. It's not for a lack of wanting to connect with friends or keep them informed. It may simple be that my life really isn't all that interesting, savvy, even entertaining. Alas!

I'm back. As my summer Hebrew Scriptures class winds down, I am finally freed up to give my blog audience (a small but certainly not meager group) an update. First, I can't believe I am writing this in July. J - U - L - Y, as in the middle of the summer. Where are the dog days of summer going? Of course, if you are from the Midwest, it doesn't seem like we have really had summer weather wise. I am ok with the heat and humidity passing us over this summer; I know many, however, who are wishing for more sunny and hazy days in which to sit poolside (or lakeside here in Chicago) and enjoy the rays. I guess they've earned that.

Summer highlights so far:

1) I traveled to Nebraska for my cousin's wedding. Biker bars are quite the hit in Nebraska!

2) I hosted a UNI friend reunion in Chicago - 5 folks in all! To make it work Lacy slept in the kitchen, right near the ever so loud humming fridge. Other than having to run out of Church half way through due to a feeling of needing to throw-up (and no, this was not the result of alcohol) things were great. Second city is hilarious; I want to go back this summer.

3) I got a new phone in June. I am anxiously awaiting traveling back to Iowa in a few weeks and having service. Small victories, big graces!

4) My friend Adam visited one weekend and we went to the beach. My stunning physique roamed the shorelines and indulged in lakeside festivities. For those who are wondering, I did use SPF 95 sun screen and applied every 30 seconds. I got sun burnt.

5) This past weekend I traveled to Nashville, IN to visit my friend Andy. It was the perfect weekend to hang out with a close friend. I wasn't aware the "hills of Indiana" had some many wineries. They do. After about 8 sips (swigs?) at very classy "wine tasting" locations I looked like a Christmas tree in July (a red ball bundle lit up in style!). I enjoy my time with Mr. Miller!

I am heading back to Iowa in a few weeks for vacation. I am looking forward to seeing my parents and spending time with siblings. While in Iowa, I have a trip to Des Moines planned to help my friends Tonia and Lacy move into their townhouse. If anything, the downtime and rest will be much appreciated. I know what you are thinking - downtime and rest while moving? Perhaps I'll sit and watch, apparently I am good at delegating.