Friday, September 18, 2009
Thursday, September 17, 2009
New York - Phoenix,
Hi, Will here:
20/30
Jet Blue
Flight Deck:Dale, Jay
Cabin Crew: Rene; Amy, Virginia
Fellow Travelers: Stu and Eileen
We had a great discussion all the way over. Renee was running like the "Energizer Bunny". Like all Jet Blue crews she served with great enthusiasm and a great deal of positive personality which put everyone at ease.
Stu was a very enlightened gentleman who was investing in real estate in Phoenix.
[ BTW let me interject that I don't use the actual names of the people I meet, and in some cases these characters are a composite of more than one individual I've shared The Word with, but their story remains intact].
Stu was New York raised and bred in the tough street smart setting of the Big Apple. He had a keen sense of right and wrong, and he could pick out "real" from fake better than anyone I've met.
He is a strong and well disciplined man who told me briefly his story.
It seems at a young age he had a lot of anger and need to express himself physically. He had
always played street ball with older guys, and only when they found out that he had guts and gumption did they let this "Kid" in their game. Yet they never cut him any slack.
Because of this, Stu became toughened and self disciplined.
Apparently he still had anger problems that required fixing or re-direction. In school he had a coach who directed his anger and physical prowess in a positive direction.
Stu was channeled into sports: football in particular. He excelled, and played High school ball and then went to College on a scholarship playing Football in Virginia.
He must have been very good because he was picked to play semi pro football after college.
I got the distinct impression Stu had picked up on more than just physical discipline. I saw in this Young man a genuine interest in fairness and right living. In discussing God, we went over the chapter headings in Tim Donoho's "Arguing With God". I could tell Stu was genuinely interested in the way Tim describes how people view God and their relationship with Him. I shared my blog info with Stu, and told him if he would write me, I would send him a copy of Tim's book. We shook and left with a smile and a small seed of hope that Stu follows up and reads the book and receives the blessings of God's powerful testimony as laid out in Tim's book.
I will be here visiting my good friends Sam and Lourdes until tomorrow evening. Friday evening I am off to Aruba for the weekend. I have to confess that part of the trip is a personal reward, but I never know who the Holy Spirit will bring me into contact with. I just know I am ready and energized by His Holy Power to proclaim the message of Hope from Jesus to all the innocent by -standers I meet.
20/30
Jet Blue
Flight Deck:Dale, Jay
Cabin Crew: Rene; Amy, Virginia
Fellow Travelers: Stu and Eileen
We had a great discussion all the way over. Renee was running like the "Energizer Bunny". Like all Jet Blue crews she served with great enthusiasm and a great deal of positive personality which put everyone at ease.
Stu was a very enlightened gentleman who was investing in real estate in Phoenix.
[ BTW let me interject that I don't use the actual names of the people I meet, and in some cases these characters are a composite of more than one individual I've shared The Word with, but their story remains intact].
Stu was New York raised and bred in the tough street smart setting of the Big Apple. He had a keen sense of right and wrong, and he could pick out "real" from fake better than anyone I've met.
He is a strong and well disciplined man who told me briefly his story.
It seems at a young age he had a lot of anger and need to express himself physically. He had
always played street ball with older guys, and only when they found out that he had guts and gumption did they let this "Kid" in their game. Yet they never cut him any slack.
Because of this, Stu became toughened and self disciplined.
Apparently he still had anger problems that required fixing or re-direction. In school he had a coach who directed his anger and physical prowess in a positive direction.
Stu was channeled into sports: football in particular. He excelled, and played High school ball and then went to College on a scholarship playing Football in Virginia.
He must have been very good because he was picked to play semi pro football after college.
I got the distinct impression Stu had picked up on more than just physical discipline. I saw in this Young man a genuine interest in fairness and right living. In discussing God, we went over the chapter headings in Tim Donoho's "Arguing With God". I could tell Stu was genuinely interested in the way Tim describes how people view God and their relationship with Him. I shared my blog info with Stu, and told him if he would write me, I would send him a copy of Tim's book. We shook and left with a smile and a small seed of hope that Stu follows up and reads the book and receives the blessings of God's powerful testimony as laid out in Tim's book.
I will be here visiting my good friends Sam and Lourdes until tomorrow evening. Friday evening I am off to Aruba for the weekend. I have to confess that part of the trip is a personal reward, but I never know who the Holy Spirit will bring me into contact with. I just know I am ready and energized by His Holy Power to proclaim the message of Hope from Jesus to all the innocent by -standers I meet.
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Seattle- New York JFK
Will Again
20/30
Quick turn around and back to New York
Jet Blue.
Funny thing. This was the same Fort Lauderdale crew I had come over from Boston,
And just great as always.
Fellow Travelers were from Kazakhstan. Remember Borat? I had a very hard time understanding them. They were a very young couple who had no interest in anything I had to say. They were fascinated with the fact that they could ask for food and drinks and they were always available. The crew was very accommodating to these young people who obviously were in the US for the first time.
We made great time to JFK, and it was a smooth flight with no incidents.
I am here for the night and then in the morning I will head to Phoenix to see my long time friend Sam. I will stay there a night and rest up before heading to Aruba via JFK for the weekend.
20/30
Quick turn around and back to New York
Jet Blue.
Funny thing. This was the same Fort Lauderdale crew I had come over from Boston,
And just great as always.
Fellow Travelers were from Kazakhstan. Remember Borat? I had a very hard time understanding them. They were a very young couple who had no interest in anything I had to say. They were fascinated with the fact that they could ask for food and drinks and they were always available. The crew was very accommodating to these young people who obviously were in the US for the first time.
We made great time to JFK, and it was a smooth flight with no incidents.
I am here for the night and then in the morning I will head to Phoenix to see my long time friend Sam. I will stay there a night and rest up before heading to Aruba via JFK for the weekend.
Boston-Seattle; Seattle New York
Jet Blue
20/30
Flt Deck: James and Mark
Cabin Crew: Pat, Craig and Pascal
These folks were very helpful. Based out of Fort Lauderdale. All were very pleasent. Pat was very interested in my journey, and she was very supportive of the idea. the whole crew, like all Jet Blue Crews gave me a wonderful flying experience.
Boston-Seattle.
While on the Silver Line from downtown to Logan I called my new friend Robbie.
We agreed to contact in case we could hook up at JFK and go to New Orleans together.
Robbie, as it turns out was in New Orleans and back in Long Beach while I went to Austin and Boston. Serendipity again. Robbie was headed to the airport to visit his son in Seattle. We would arrive within an hour of each other. He invited me to meet with him.
Robbie Jr. Picked us up at the airport and we drove to his house. I met his family and Robbie Sr's. Granddaughter. Robbie Jr. lent his dad the van for us to use. Robbie and I set off.
"Listen," Robbie said as we headed down the road. " It is a shame you will be here only a short time. I wanted to show you the city. I lived here 25 years." He turned onto the expressway. "I can drive you around now and you can get an idea of what's here. " So we drove around the city and Robbie pointed out the highlights of a city he was very proud of. And a beautiful city it is.
I saw the Sea Hawks stadium, The Boeing Plant, the docks where Robbie has worked as a crane operator for many years. Then we went to the east side of the Sound and I got a spectacular view of the city and the Space Needle landmark. I thanked Robbie for taking the time to show me Seattle.
Then Robbie and I went out to eat, and he dropped me back off at the airport. I thanked God to have sent me such a good friend in and fellow in Christ.
20/30
Flt Deck: James and Mark
Cabin Crew: Pat, Craig and Pascal
These folks were very helpful. Based out of Fort Lauderdale. All were very pleasent. Pat was very interested in my journey, and she was very supportive of the idea. the whole crew, like all Jet Blue Crews gave me a wonderful flying experience.
Boston-Seattle.
While on the Silver Line from downtown to Logan I called my new friend Robbie.
We agreed to contact in case we could hook up at JFK and go to New Orleans together.
Robbie, as it turns out was in New Orleans and back in Long Beach while I went to Austin and Boston. Serendipity again. Robbie was headed to the airport to visit his son in Seattle. We would arrive within an hour of each other. He invited me to meet with him.
Robbie Jr. Picked us up at the airport and we drove to his house. I met his family and Robbie Sr's. Granddaughter. Robbie Jr. lent his dad the van for us to use. Robbie and I set off.
"Listen," Robbie said as we headed down the road. " It is a shame you will be here only a short time. I wanted to show you the city. I lived here 25 years." He turned onto the expressway. "I can drive you around now and you can get an idea of what's here. " So we drove around the city and Robbie pointed out the highlights of a city he was very proud of. And a beautiful city it is.
I saw the Sea Hawks stadium, The Boeing Plant, the docks where Robbie has worked as a crane operator for many years. Then we went to the east side of the Sound and I got a spectacular view of the city and the Space Needle landmark. I thanked Robbie for taking the time to show me Seattle.
Then Robbie and I went out to eat, and he dropped me back off at the airport. I thanked God to have sent me such a good friend in and fellow in Christ.
San Diego- Boston
Hi Will Here 20/30
Catching up on updates here at Jet Blue Terminal 5 in JFK. Best air terminal location so far.
I have been working on a non-scientific evaluation of all the terminals I've visited. This is based on my personal impressions of Ease of access, Food, Service, Restroom facilities, and Internet access and other communications and transportation [ bus-train etc] for the traveler passing through.
I will publish this at the end of the trip after I have been to all stops. Remember I am stopping in 20 cities but I have to pass through 53 airports to get there; not all flights are direct.
9-14-09
San Diego-Boston
Flt Deck: Mark Flanders; Peter Vogel
Cabin Crew: Jennifer, Virna and Tony.
Fellow Traveler: Rhina traveling from Africa back to Boston
Rhina could not speak much English, but I did get that she was Hindu, and that she embraces all religions. I left her my card, and she will explore my blog.
Crew was very good, flight smooth and comfortable. This was a red-eye and the whole plane was asleep [except cockpit and crew]. We made it in good time, and I got right into the city on the Silver Line.
In South Station, I was directed to take Red, Green and Blue lines to get to the Commons and the main library in Copley Square. Then I remembered the Kingston Trio Song," The Man Who Never Returned" Recall the lyrics,"... He may ride forever neath the streets of Boston. He's the man who never returned." With that song going through my mind, I found a map of downtown on the "tourist Info" stand. There it was, a map of Downtown Boston.
I looked around and found that the places I wanted to go were all within 10-12 blocks of the station. Thinking I could navigate this with my 15 LB back pack and 8 LB laptop bag, I took off. Well they were long "Blocks" , and all streets are not N-S; E-W. I did it with few instructions from the locals who all started out by directing me to the hole in the ground :," ... and then take the red line to xxx and the blue line to xxx and..." no "Charlie" did that in the song. I had another mission, and could not get trapped beneath the Streets of Boston. My next flight was at 4 :30.
"God, please direct me, and give me the straight." Soon I found myself in the middle of the Commons a large park in the center of a city of tall buildings and busy traffic streets.
I followed the map to F.R.O.G pond. I remembered "Fully Relying On God. That was what I was doing, and it was working. The other side of the Commons was the beautiful Botanical Park built in 1837, and a few blocks more Trinity Church, Copley Square and the Main Library. This was a beautiful building; a work of art. and WOW! free Internet with an Ethernet port a each station. I was able to catch up on my blog, enjoy the Library [Always loved being in a great Library since I did a lot of research at Temple U and the U of P], and Boston Public was the best.
One thing did disturb me. At the top of each column holding up the ornate ceiling which resembled a Roman Cathedral was the name of some famous thinker: Plato, Cicero, Dante, Augustine, Homer, Socrates, et al. I wondered? Where is Jesus ? How could the builder and architect miss the greatest Creator of all. Just a thought.
I finished, packed up, and began navigating my way back to South Station to get the Silver Line back to the airport. I was not going back through the Commons because it looked longer on the map. Along Columbus Ave. I saw a mailman getting out of his truck, and for re-assurance asked if I was going the right way to South Station. " yes, take the Red Line...." He began.
"Excuse me, I am walking there."
He looked at me like I was from another planet, "Walking? Walking? Do you know how far that is? " He was puzzled, "Well, then you are on the right street, just turn at right at Stuart, but you can get the bus right down those stairs over there."
The song was playing in my head again. I thanked him and started to walk faster to the station following my map. 20 minutes later I arrived and then did go down into the tunnel to catch the Silver Line to the airport. With a map and help from God I was back in the airport headed for San Diego.
Catching up on updates here at Jet Blue Terminal 5 in JFK. Best air terminal location so far.
I have been working on a non-scientific evaluation of all the terminals I've visited. This is based on my personal impressions of Ease of access, Food, Service, Restroom facilities, and Internet access and other communications and transportation [ bus-train etc] for the traveler passing through.
I will publish this at the end of the trip after I have been to all stops. Remember I am stopping in 20 cities but I have to pass through 53 airports to get there; not all flights are direct.
9-14-09
San Diego-Boston
Flt Deck: Mark Flanders; Peter Vogel
Cabin Crew: Jennifer, Virna and Tony.
Fellow Traveler: Rhina traveling from Africa back to Boston
Rhina could not speak much English, but I did get that she was Hindu, and that she embraces all religions. I left her my card, and she will explore my blog.
Crew was very good, flight smooth and comfortable. This was a red-eye and the whole plane was asleep [except cockpit and crew]. We made it in good time, and I got right into the city on the Silver Line.
In South Station, I was directed to take Red, Green and Blue lines to get to the Commons and the main library in Copley Square. Then I remembered the Kingston Trio Song," The Man Who Never Returned" Recall the lyrics,"... He may ride forever neath the streets of Boston. He's the man who never returned." With that song going through my mind, I found a map of downtown on the "tourist Info" stand. There it was, a map of Downtown Boston.
I looked around and found that the places I wanted to go were all within 10-12 blocks of the station. Thinking I could navigate this with my 15 LB back pack and 8 LB laptop bag, I took off. Well they were long "Blocks" , and all streets are not N-S; E-W. I did it with few instructions from the locals who all started out by directing me to the hole in the ground :," ... and then take the red line to xxx and the blue line to xxx and..." no "Charlie" did that in the song. I had another mission, and could not get trapped beneath the Streets of Boston. My next flight was at 4 :30.
"God, please direct me, and give me the straight." Soon I found myself in the middle of the Commons a large park in the center of a city of tall buildings and busy traffic streets.
I followed the map to F.R.O.G pond. I remembered "Fully Relying On God. That was what I was doing, and it was working. The other side of the Commons was the beautiful Botanical Park built in 1837, and a few blocks more Trinity Church, Copley Square and the Main Library. This was a beautiful building; a work of art. and WOW! free Internet with an Ethernet port a each station. I was able to catch up on my blog, enjoy the Library [Always loved being in a great Library since I did a lot of research at Temple U and the U of P], and Boston Public was the best.
One thing did disturb me. At the top of each column holding up the ornate ceiling which resembled a Roman Cathedral was the name of some famous thinker: Plato, Cicero, Dante, Augustine, Homer, Socrates, et al. I wondered? Where is Jesus ? How could the builder and architect miss the greatest Creator of all. Just a thought.
I finished, packed up, and began navigating my way back to South Station to get the Silver Line back to the airport. I was not going back through the Commons because it looked longer on the map. Along Columbus Ave. I saw a mailman getting out of his truck, and for re-assurance asked if I was going the right way to South Station. " yes, take the Red Line...." He began.
"Excuse me, I am walking there."
He looked at me like I was from another planet, "Walking? Walking? Do you know how far that is? " He was puzzled, "Well, then you are on the right street, just turn at right at Stuart, but you can get the bus right down those stairs over there."
The song was playing in my head again. I thanked him and started to walk faster to the station following my map. 20 minutes later I arrived and then did go down into the tunnel to catch the Silver Line to the airport. With a map and help from God I was back in the airport headed for San Diego.
Alone, and Facing Criticism
Just after shooting the video at Frog Pond, I met John, a poor person who was holding a sign for food in the Beautiful Botanical Gardens across from the Commons. I sat with him for a time and he told me of loss and despair, and his inability to overcome his situation.
I spoke the message of Jesus to him. I don't know all the scriptures, but I did remember Pastor Terry telling my friend Herb to read Rom 10:9. So I opened a bible and read it to John. We said the sinners prayer together. I had left a small offering in the book of John [seemed appropriate] John accepted the book gratefully. We prayed together for a minute. It was moving to me, and to him.
Today's message from Pastor Larry's "Side By Side" speaks of overcoming despair and doubt and detractors. I find on this journey it is better to ignore the detractors[ including that small devil in my mind who tries to tell me this is a fools mission not planned or well financed]. Then I go on and Pray for support from the Holy Spirit and He does amazing things that I could not do on my on with my limited Physical abilities, limited funding, and limited knowledge.
In all truth I confess that I feel I am doing things that I am "not Doing." If you know what I mean
No video today. I am in Seattle, and leaving for JFK in a few hours. I met up with Robbie, the fellow Christian traveler from Long Beach. We met his son and family. I think I will see Robbie again in Puerto Rico.
I spoke the message of Jesus to him. I don't know all the scriptures, but I did remember Pastor Terry telling my friend Herb to read Rom 10:9. So I opened a bible and read it to John. We said the sinners prayer together. I had left a small offering in the book of John [seemed appropriate] John accepted the book gratefully. We prayed together for a minute. It was moving to me, and to him.
Today's message from Pastor Larry's "Side By Side" speaks of overcoming despair and doubt and detractors. I find on this journey it is better to ignore the detractors[ including that small devil in my mind who tries to tell me this is a fools mission not planned or well financed]. Then I go on and Pray for support from the Holy Spirit and He does amazing things that I could not do on my on with my limited Physical abilities, limited funding, and limited knowledge.
In all truth I confess that I feel I am doing things that I am "not Doing." If you know what I mean
No video today. I am in Seattle, and leaving for JFK in a few hours. I met up with Robbie, the fellow Christian traveler from Long Beach. We met his son and family. I think I will see Robbie again in Puerto Rico.
Monday, September 14, 2009
Test of Fire Brings Fire to Your Soul
Hi Will here :20/30
No flights today. As it turned out. I arrived yesterday and my next flight is to Boston tonight at 10:30 PM San Diego time. That puts me in Boston eastern time at 6:30 AM.
So, today I had time to catch up on reading, posting, and doing some mingling in San Diego. I would call this a blessed day. However, I did not really meet anyone who was in need. I had help from two people in my travels and in casual conversation discovered two faithful believers.
The reading in Pastor Larry's Side by Side spoke of challenges which make us stronger, and the need to pray for those going through such trials. then in the daily reading the same theme was there in II Corinthians. Both messages conclude that our passing the test shows God's power and glory, and then we become His. II Cor.22, "He appointed us, set His seal of ownership on us. and [most importantly to me]put His Spirit in our hearts as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come"
Thus, a test of fire followed by Fire infused in our hearts. This is such a wonderful message.
I sat by a large boulder on Coronado beach mulling this over, and in the morning air, after a plunge in the 60 something Pacific I knew it. "Authentic" learning as Pastor Brian calls it. This was it! I have been trying to rebuild the rubble of my own life after sin destroyed me and my family. It has been a powerful test in the crucible. I think that part is over, but I am looking at the rubble, and it is impossible for me to put it all back together. Only God could fix such total destruction.
I laid back in the soft sand and looked over the beauty of my surroundings, snd thought," My God can make all this beauty and majesty, He can fix my small wall."
To Him be he glory in performing such mighty tasks!
Wow!, Now could relax and enjoy this trip all the more.
I would like to add that I am meeting 70% non-believers and 30% who have a personal relationship with Jesus. I have gathered over 25 stories in this first week, and that is about how it breaks down.
Since I was a bit tired from reading and working on the blog I thought I'd spend most of the day getting out and about. After all that is where the souls are.
Early morning I went to Coronodo Island, and took a swim in the ocean in front of the Del Coronodo. Lunch there, and then using my all day bus pass ($5.00 Fantastic value)I went to the Zoo, Maritime museums and Balboa Park.
After I finish this I'll post the photos. Enjoy!!
No flights today. As it turned out. I arrived yesterday and my next flight is to Boston tonight at 10:30 PM San Diego time. That puts me in Boston eastern time at 6:30 AM.
So, today I had time to catch up on reading, posting, and doing some mingling in San Diego. I would call this a blessed day. However, I did not really meet anyone who was in need. I had help from two people in my travels and in casual conversation discovered two faithful believers.
The reading in Pastor Larry's Side by Side spoke of challenges which make us stronger, and the need to pray for those going through such trials. then in the daily reading the same theme was there in II Corinthians. Both messages conclude that our passing the test shows God's power and glory, and then we become His. II Cor.22, "He appointed us, set His seal of ownership on us. and [most importantly to me]put His Spirit in our hearts as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come"
Thus, a test of fire followed by Fire infused in our hearts. This is such a wonderful message.
I sat by a large boulder on Coronado beach mulling this over, and in the morning air, after a plunge in the 60 something Pacific I knew it. "Authentic" learning as Pastor Brian calls it. This was it! I have been trying to rebuild the rubble of my own life after sin destroyed me and my family. It has been a powerful test in the crucible. I think that part is over, but I am looking at the rubble, and it is impossible for me to put it all back together. Only God could fix such total destruction.
I laid back in the soft sand and looked over the beauty of my surroundings, snd thought," My God can make all this beauty and majesty, He can fix my small wall."
To Him be he glory in performing such mighty tasks!
Wow!, Now could relax and enjoy this trip all the more.
I would like to add that I am meeting 70% non-believers and 30% who have a personal relationship with Jesus. I have gathered over 25 stories in this first week, and that is about how it breaks down.
Since I was a bit tired from reading and working on the blog I thought I'd spend most of the day getting out and about. After all that is where the souls are.
Early morning I went to Coronodo Island, and took a swim in the ocean in front of the Del Coronodo. Lunch there, and then using my all day bus pass ($5.00 Fantastic value)I went to the Zoo, Maritime museums and Balboa Park.
After I finish this I'll post the photos. Enjoy!!
Sunday, September 13, 2009
Love and Mature Faith
Sunday morning. I hope I can get to the Internet and see Pastor Larry's web cast.
Salt Lake to San Diego
Jet Blue
Flight Deck: Capt. Bill and Tony
Cabin Crew: David, Caesar and Jodi
on time, and with a good crew. Excellent service. The cabin crew each made it a point to greet me, and the captain welcomed AYCJ [All You Can Jet]passengers.
I have enjoyed each flight to date. The crews are sincere about making each passenger safe and comfortable. Seats have plenty of room; your own TV, and they serve snacks and drinks. You can order food too.
Fe low travelers were the Rays: Harold and Lou Ann. Right off They wanted to know what my mission was about. I had not mentioned "Mission" but they knew. Each had done some mission work, as do many Mormons. It is not required, but most people serve some time in the field. The rays have 4 grown children and three have served out of the US. Mr. Ray has always held multiple jobs. The Rays were on a vacation they won here in San Diego.
All the way over we talked about mission work, and the fact that Mormon families financially support their children when they are in the field proselytizing.
Mr. Ray also has a family convenience store, and is active in the Boy Scouts as a leader. He and I both agreed it is so important for young people to have a solid role model to help shape them into godly people. Here is a strong and mature faith of dedication and good example in living the principals of the Word. Mr. Ray knew the BSA oath and the pledge which he rattled off at 77 like a kid 7.Both he and Ms Lou Ann have strong moral convictions as evidenced by their 55 year marriage.
They were a very cute couple, going to San Diego like two young newlyweds off for the weekend and some great renewal of their life long love and fidelity.
God blesses by both teaching and example, and he is giving me plenty of both this trip.
In the AM I will get a $5.00 all day pas on the bus and head for downtown, Coronado and the zoo if I can get it in before 1:30 PM.
Off to Boston tomorrow.
Salt Lake to San Diego
Jet Blue
Flight Deck: Capt. Bill and Tony
Cabin Crew: David, Caesar and Jodi
on time, and with a good crew. Excellent service. The cabin crew each made it a point to greet me, and the captain welcomed AYCJ [All You Can Jet]passengers.
I have enjoyed each flight to date. The crews are sincere about making each passenger safe and comfortable. Seats have plenty of room; your own TV, and they serve snacks and drinks. You can order food too.
Fe low travelers were the Rays: Harold and Lou Ann. Right off They wanted to know what my mission was about. I had not mentioned "Mission" but they knew. Each had done some mission work, as do many Mormons. It is not required, but most people serve some time in the field. The rays have 4 grown children and three have served out of the US. Mr. Ray has always held multiple jobs. The Rays were on a vacation they won here in San Diego.
All the way over we talked about mission work, and the fact that Mormon families financially support their children when they are in the field proselytizing.
Mr. Ray also has a family convenience store, and is active in the Boy Scouts as a leader. He and I both agreed it is so important for young people to have a solid role model to help shape them into godly people. Here is a strong and mature faith of dedication and good example in living the principals of the Word. Mr. Ray knew the BSA oath and the pledge which he rattled off at 77 like a kid 7.Both he and Ms Lou Ann have strong moral convictions as evidenced by their 55 year marriage.
They were a very cute couple, going to San Diego like two young newlyweds off for the weekend and some great renewal of their life long love and fidelity.
God blesses by both teaching and example, and he is giving me plenty of both this trip.
In the AM I will get a $5.00 all day pas on the bus and head for downtown, Coronado and the zoo if I can get it in before 1:30 PM.
Off to Boston tomorrow.
Dead Ground - Fertile Ground
Late night Long Beach to Salt Lake City
Jet Blue---
Ground Ops:Terry, Ruth
Flight Deck: Frank Drew, Chris Thomas
Cabin: Susan.Charlotte, Mark?
Fellow Traveler: Alliy
Made only a few contacts in Vegas. Ground was very dry there. However, I did leave a Bible with a young lady at the airport. She did not wish to share much. I got the impression she was skeptical about someone asking to share information in Vegas. She may have thought I was cop.
The flight to Salt Lake was great. Fellow traveler was Alliy, and did we ever share some stories. Alliy is a life long Mormon, and she is also the Mission servant in her church. She openly shared stories of Mission work she was involved in.
I asked if she would not minding helping me understand the Mormon doctrine.
We talked or almost two hours about the bible, and Mormon history. We went over the polygamy thing, and John Smith and Young. We covered the formation of the church, and its enormous world mission. It was very enlightening. Alliy was a very good woman, and she was very enthused to share he mission experiences as well as bringing me up to speed on a few issues.
The Holy Spirit really does the unexpected. God is really working everywhere.
We had a discussion on when Monogamy came to be and talked about Isaac and Ishmael.
I was amazed at all she knew. I was more amazed at her faith and goodness I felt emulating from this young woman. I gave her my card, and she said she'll log in and see how I progress.
I had not planned it, but I arrived late Saturday night in Salt Lake. I woke early Sunday morning and wanted to see the Tabernacle before I left at 10:30. Bus service is freely provided by the saints, but not until 9 AM. So around 6AM after I had my coffee, I started to look for alternate transportation.
Before leaving I was set to post this, but I ran into trouble with getting into the Internet. A young man there had just signed on, and I asked if he could help. As it turns out he was from the Ukraine, and I got a chance to use the 3 Russian words I learned last week. Valery was very proficient with the PC. He is here on a work visa, and has been in US four months. He and I shared stories. I found he was a Cristian who had strong convictions. He was intrigued with my journey. because of my old wireless card he could not get me on, but Valery offered to let me use his PC to get my mail. A very kind and generous gesture when he is waiting to do his own PC work between flights.
Next, I ran into a young man from Uganda. His name is Onek. He told me it would be dark, and the doors would be locked, but he said he'd take me there to the Temple. Onek drove me into town and around all the buildings of the church and downtown. It was like a visit to the UN. He was right. It was dark and the sun didn't come up until I had to start back to the airport. However, it was a very moving experience seeing this wondrous structure bathed is flood lights jutting majestically upward from what was once a desert floor covered with sage brush.
Onek was most polite, generous and accommodating. He told me he is the product of Mormon mission work. He is from a poor family in Uganda, and missionaries helped him out and saved him by sharing the message of Grace and eternal life. He was only glad he could help me in my journey.
I found very fertile ground in the center of a desert as contrasted to the desert of Vegas where only buildings grow.
Now, on to SAN Diego.
Jet Blue---
Ground Ops:Terry, Ruth
Flight Deck: Frank Drew, Chris Thomas
Cabin: Susan.Charlotte, Mark?
Fellow Traveler: Alliy
Made only a few contacts in Vegas. Ground was very dry there. However, I did leave a Bible with a young lady at the airport. She did not wish to share much. I got the impression she was skeptical about someone asking to share information in Vegas. She may have thought I was cop.
The flight to Salt Lake was great. Fellow traveler was Alliy, and did we ever share some stories. Alliy is a life long Mormon, and she is also the Mission servant in her church. She openly shared stories of Mission work she was involved in.
I asked if she would not minding helping me understand the Mormon doctrine.
We talked or almost two hours about the bible, and Mormon history. We went over the polygamy thing, and John Smith and Young. We covered the formation of the church, and its enormous world mission. It was very enlightening. Alliy was a very good woman, and she was very enthused to share he mission experiences as well as bringing me up to speed on a few issues.
The Holy Spirit really does the unexpected. God is really working everywhere.
We had a discussion on when Monogamy came to be and talked about Isaac and Ishmael.
I was amazed at all she knew. I was more amazed at her faith and goodness I felt emulating from this young woman. I gave her my card, and she said she'll log in and see how I progress.
I had not planned it, but I arrived late Saturday night in Salt Lake. I woke early Sunday morning and wanted to see the Tabernacle before I left at 10:30. Bus service is freely provided by the saints, but not until 9 AM. So around 6AM after I had my coffee, I started to look for alternate transportation.
Before leaving I was set to post this, but I ran into trouble with getting into the Internet. A young man there had just signed on, and I asked if he could help. As it turns out he was from the Ukraine, and I got a chance to use the 3 Russian words I learned last week. Valery was very proficient with the PC. He is here on a work visa, and has been in US four months. He and I shared stories. I found he was a Cristian who had strong convictions. He was intrigued with my journey. because of my old wireless card he could not get me on, but Valery offered to let me use his PC to get my mail. A very kind and generous gesture when he is waiting to do his own PC work between flights.
Next, I ran into a young man from Uganda. His name is Onek. He told me it would be dark, and the doors would be locked, but he said he'd take me there to the Temple. Onek drove me into town and around all the buildings of the church and downtown. It was like a visit to the UN. He was right. It was dark and the sun didn't come up until I had to start back to the airport. However, it was a very moving experience seeing this wondrous structure bathed is flood lights jutting majestically upward from what was once a desert floor covered with sage brush.
Onek was most polite, generous and accommodating. He told me he is the product of Mormon mission work. He is from a poor family in Uganda, and missionaries helped him out and saved him by sharing the message of Grace and eternal life. He was only glad he could help me in my journey.
I found very fertile ground in the center of a desert as contrasted to the desert of Vegas where only buildings grow.
Now, on to SAN Diego.
Highs and Lows in Vegas
Se La Vie Las Vegas
Saturday September 12, 2009
I’m outta here!
Jet Blue is now taking me back to Long Beach, and for a layover prior to Salt Lake
Crew:
Flight Deck: Jason Brid and David
Cabin Crew: Warren, Heather, and Giles
Also, many thanks to Scott Williams and Tiffany Supervisors of Ground Operations. Scott took my photo last night and asked all about my journey. He came to the waiting area today to see me off. He sent an e-mail, but I have not gotten it yet. I think I’m doing better than my Laptop on this trip. Tiffany was very excited about the journey, and she expressed the sentiments of other Jet Blue Employees. Several have told me they envy my trip and that they wished they could get off enough time for the journey.
My fellow Traveler was Joy. I was very impressed with this young woman. She was not afraid to profess her faith and integrity. I reflected back on my recent mission trip to Nicaragua, and the many wonderful young people I met. Our group was split about 50/50 with youth. Ranging from say 9 to 19 I was very impressed with the deep spirit these young folks possessed. I could feel the joy and love emulating from their hearts as they sang and played a wide range of Christian songs. Each one possessed special talents in singing, playing instruments and ministering to the youth of Nicaragua.
I was probably the odd man out in the group. The other adults mostly were the parents of these wonderful youth. For no good reason I was there by myself. I had hoped my children would come from the village, and I did make contact with a few even though I do not speak much Spanish. I hear so many people talking about how young people have no morals, they have no respect for anything, and they are all on drugs.
Had these people met any of the youth of First Baptist, Fort Lauderdale they would sing a different tune. These young folks are very talented, very smart, and very involved in experiencing their Savior. They are a strong testimony to their parents and to the leadership of our church.
Joy reminded me of the young folks in this group. She was respectful and told me she could not go to church every time she would like to, but she does have a fundamental belief in Christ. I did not get the sense Joy is putting off her commitment, but that she will take stronger action in the near future; Her “church” is in her heart.
I loaded down my Vegas photos, and I will rest for the next 3 hours prior leaving for Salt Lake.
Met a fellow AYCJ traveler: Seth. Scott had taken my photo last night, and today they stopped Seth and took his photo before getting on in Vegas. Jet Blue is really going out of their way to make passengers feel good!
More later, and I’m working on the photo site. No internet connection here in the waiting area. Tomorrow or tonight in Salt Lake,
Saturday September 12, 2009
I’m outta here!
Jet Blue is now taking me back to Long Beach, and for a layover prior to Salt Lake
Crew:
Flight Deck: Jason Brid and David
Cabin Crew: Warren, Heather, and Giles
Also, many thanks to Scott Williams and Tiffany Supervisors of Ground Operations. Scott took my photo last night and asked all about my journey. He came to the waiting area today to see me off. He sent an e-mail, but I have not gotten it yet. I think I’m doing better than my Laptop on this trip. Tiffany was very excited about the journey, and she expressed the sentiments of other Jet Blue Employees. Several have told me they envy my trip and that they wished they could get off enough time for the journey.
My fellow Traveler was Joy. I was very impressed with this young woman. She was not afraid to profess her faith and integrity. I reflected back on my recent mission trip to Nicaragua, and the many wonderful young people I met. Our group was split about 50/50 with youth. Ranging from say 9 to 19 I was very impressed with the deep spirit these young folks possessed. I could feel the joy and love emulating from their hearts as they sang and played a wide range of Christian songs. Each one possessed special talents in singing, playing instruments and ministering to the youth of Nicaragua.
I was probably the odd man out in the group. The other adults mostly were the parents of these wonderful youth. For no good reason I was there by myself. I had hoped my children would come from the village, and I did make contact with a few even though I do not speak much Spanish. I hear so many people talking about how young people have no morals, they have no respect for anything, and they are all on drugs.
Had these people met any of the youth of First Baptist, Fort Lauderdale they would sing a different tune. These young folks are very talented, very smart, and very involved in experiencing their Savior. They are a strong testimony to their parents and to the leadership of our church.
Joy reminded me of the young folks in this group. She was respectful and told me she could not go to church every time she would like to, but she does have a fundamental belief in Christ. I did not get the sense Joy is putting off her commitment, but that she will take stronger action in the near future; Her “church” is in her heart.
I loaded down my Vegas photos, and I will rest for the next 3 hours prior leaving for Salt Lake.
Met a fellow AYCJ traveler: Seth. Scott had taken my photo last night, and today they stopped Seth and took his photo before getting on in Vegas. Jet Blue is really going out of their way to make passengers feel good!
More later, and I’m working on the photo site. No internet connection here in the waiting area. Tomorrow or tonight in Salt Lake,
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