Chaplain Dave's Newsletter

50 million dead

2012-01-22T20:25:00.003Z

Estimated 50 million dead children. 39th Anniversary of Roe vs. Wade. Is this really what we want? Really?

Skyrim - metaphor for life

2011-12-31T10:09:00.002Z

Dragons are invading the land. People are dying. Lives are being consumed. What to do?

I received Skyrim for Christmas. While I like fantasy literature, I've never been a big fan of fantasy role playing games, but I like this game because it is so much like life - it is open ended and not scripted; its progress depends on the choices you make. Skyrim looks to be an interesting gaming experience.

Like life.

This is a game with a major crisis- dragons are invading the land. And you find yourself in a politically divided environment and are asked to take sides. You can choose the noble road and make ethical decisions. You can play as a thief. You can even play as an assassin and murder. There are skills and talents you are born with, some that you can learn, all that you can develop but like life you must chose which ones to focus on. You can play the game and become a great character, a hero, or you can avoid the main quest completely and only play the side line quests. You can focus on becoming rich and buying lots of houses and you can focus on serving the need of the community by tackling the crisis.

Like life.

When we enter the world of adult life we find ourselves with lots of choices to consider. We have a life to build, a character to develop. We are all talented at something, usually more than one something. Even those of us who have struggled through school, whose life experience as a teen was not that great, who people would describe as not having much going for us, do have something going for us. Every human being is gifted. We are not all good at everything, but everyone is good at something. It may be mostly potential, but it is there.

As we stand on the landscape of our life looking at the world around us waiting to be discovered we realize that in the unknown there is an element of risk and danger. Will we step forward into the world with courage or will we be timid? Will we go out looking for the opportunities and the treasures for the world is full of them? Or will we stick to the well traveled roads and the path of mediocrity?

As we progress through life, it won't take long to realize there are many problems and crises in the world around us that we can become involved in. In Skyrim you can learn a spell that will heal others. (And yourself). It is a valuable lifeskill to learn how to heal from wounds both physical but more often of the heart and soul for life has a way of wounding us, sometimes at our core. But there are those who develop the skills to reach out and heal the hurting around us both in body and in spirit. That is a noble life road.

And like the game, you can choose to play as a very noble person, or you can become a very bad person or something in between. It is one thing to be a thief and make your way sneaking, taking advantage of others, and stealing anything you can. But in Skyrim, even the noble person can take advantage and pocket a stolen trinket or two when people aren't looking without getting in trouble with authorities. Like life. But unlike the game, when you steal or take advantage of another person it is not just an electronic avatar that will respawn fully whole later. When we take from others we diminish them; we hurt them.

Will we play the game of life in such a way that we add to life or diminish it?

And what shall we add? Shall we focus on treasures and houses for one can ignore the greater quest of Skyrim and focus on looting ancient halls and accumulating gold to purchase houses and jewelry and clothing? In our own lives which will dominate our time and energy, our focus? Will we focus on personal riches or will we utilize the things of the world as tools to enrich life and not only our own? Will we own the temporary things of the world and utilize them to enhance lives or will the things of the world own our temporary lives and consume our days upon this world?

And the world we find ourselves spawned into is a world in peril. It is filled with glories to be discovered but some fairly rough places too. It is filled with places where people are dangerous. There are real life monsters waiting to consume other out there. There are factions trying to buy your allegiance for their own gain. Will you become a pawn in someone else's game of life or will you think for yourself and make your choices, choose your friends, and determine your allegiances based on life enhancing values? Even in my middle years, half-way through my game of life, I find these questions worth pondering and reviewing. Perhaps I need some course corrections.

What sort of character will we become? Have we become? What course do we choose now?

Will we dive into the deepest challenges of life where the greatest risk is, the greatest effort required, but where we are called to become the noble hero? Or will we stick to the side games - the safe areas - but the mediocre parts.

But finally we realize too that a video game is unlike life in that in the game every person who plays can become "the hero", the savior of the world. In Skyrim an ordinary person happens to be born with a talent that in the midst of this crisis can lead him or her to become such a savior.

Some people are a bit more gifted in some areas than others. Sometimes you see someone who is a master, who naturally gifted has developed that gift to extraordinary levels. Most people are on similar skill levels to others. And life situations impact our choices, the scope of our ability to make impact. Some people find themselves due to forces beyond their control (and sometimes due to constructing a path) at the center of influence points in life and able to rise to positions of great influence. The story of President Obama is such an example. Or Hillary Clinton or George Bush.

Almost everyone will never be president. But I believe that there are many people out there who are gifted and if given the opportunities could have been as good as or indeed better in their service than those who have come before. We are limited to the choices the game of life hands us, but looking at great people we realize that there is an element for shaping our own path and destiny. When we strike out with purpose, courage, and informed decisions we can shape our own destiny.

And just maybe you will find yourself in a place where for another person, another group, who knows maybe a nation - you could be a hero for a danger has arisen for which you are gifted. But to become the hero, to help others, will entail personal sacrifice, a choice to develop your character and your skills to tackle the problem, a choice to devote yourself to the service of others.

The world is full of problems. If we look we find that we have talents inside us waiting to be developed and applied to help make life better for ourselves and those we live with.

But we don't have to be president to have a profound influence for the good or for the evil on the world around us. Especially in our zone of play. What we do, who we are, how we interact with others - it shapes not only our life but the lives of others.

How shall we play? Will we play small or large? Will we spectate? Or will we take the risk, dedicate the effort, and for someone become the hero?

2011-12-16T06:39:00.002Z

As the Iraqi war comes to an end I hope we are coming closer to a dream fulfilled and that is to walk through the streets of my previous deployed location safely with my Iraqi friends to enjoy some local food and cha. It has been a while since I was in the desert and this has been a long conflict. So much has been accomplished but the Iraqi people still have a long road ahead. I have lots of feelings and opinions as I read the commentaries, the speeches, listen to the increasing chorus of criticism directed toward the military in some circles concerning the tactical engagement of the war. But number one in my thoughts and concerns are my Iraqi friends. I pray for them that they keep growing and know peace, prosperity, and justice. My Iraqi friends were somewhat different from me in culture and some beliefs. But they were also very similar. They loved their country. They loved their families. They, like the rest of us, wanted to live life at peace and to have good things for the ones they love. They had put on the uniform of military service to help secure that. I haven't had any contact with them over the years since I left Iraq, but they are still in my prayers. I may never go back to Iraq, but for a period of time I lived there, made friendships there, and like hundreds of thousands of others, contributed a bit to the future of a people and a nation. I may never go back, but Iraq will remain part of who I am and I will remember and pray for my friends.

2011-12-07T07:40:00.001Z

Remembering.

An entire generation moved to commitment, valor, sacrifice, triumph, and victory. Our nation was changed. Our world was changed.

December 7, 1941. Pearl Harbor day. A day worthy of remembrance.

A generation worthy of emulating.

Sept 11, 2001.

A day of of hatred. A day of tragedy. A day evil struck.

A day worthy of remembrance. Again our nation was changed. Again our world has changed.

Will we be a generation worth remembering, worthy of emulation?

Are we committed to valor, sacrifice, triumph, and victory?

Will we remember and be moved?

Change: Re-formation

2011-11-18T06:19:00.001Z

There is always change. My recent trip to the European mainland to Wittenberg Germany on the anniversary of the Reformation was quite remarkable and moving. Perhaps this trip combined with other recent events such as my mother passing away, had me thinking about the power of change and resilience which is the ability to bounce back and keeping moving onward in the midst of challenge.

One of the many things I admire about the Reformer Martin Luther was his resilience. Early in the Reformation he didn't have much to hang his hat on for the sake of his personal security. Indeed, his own core beliefs were changing so fast that I suspect one reason he was such a prolific writer was it helped him to make sense of them and keep them centered on the truth of Scripture. He had powerful enemies in the Pope and other leaders of the Roman Catholic church whose main approach to dealing with his challenge being to call for his life. Marriage brought a great many other changes to Luther and when his daughter died it broke his heart. But he remained unwavering through his life to what was right and good and to living.

There is always change. The ancient pre-Socratic philosophy Heraclitus in discussing the relationship of permanence (which we all crave) and change suggested we "cannot step in the same river twice". Time flows. The world changes. We change.

As we grow older there is much change we cannot control but there is also much that we can influence. For example as our bodies grow older what that means can be heavily influenced by choices in diet and exercise. Our minds as well. We can sit and just let how we approach life be largely out of years of habit. Or we can from time to time engage why we are doing what we are doing and what we hold dear and reassess our values, beliefs, and goals to see if perhaps they are in need of a re-formation.

Some of us resist changing our beliefs because it sounds too much like the radical liberal clarion call that traditional values are enslaving and change that abandons the past is necessarily liberating and progress. But as Luther showed us, sometimes reaching back to the foundation can help us get our life (and sometimes our society) back on a better course.

There are some changes that change us. They come unexpectedly. We fall in love. We loose a loved one. We are diagnosed with an illness. We are attacked by an enemy. Our situation alters in a substantial way.

Such change, when associated with loss or threat, can illicit some powerful negative emotions. It is telling that of the four major emotions (mad, sad, scared, glad) three of them are negative. Change can make us fearful, sad and depressed, and even angry. Emotions can be powerful motivators in our lives for actions which bring on further change, not all of them good. I believe it wise when we become conscious of a major change in our lives that find us with these powerful emotions, that such is a time at the beginning of our response to not just put our feelings into it, but to think about our feelings, to think about our new situation, and to think about where we want the situation to go.

I find in these situations reaching back to my core - to my foundational beliefs - helps me to sustain what is important and vital in the midst of changes.

It can be easy to drift from our core beliefs and identity as strange as that might sound. By Ortega Gassett tells us, "I am myself and my circumstances." Circumstances go a long way in making up the stuff of our lives and when we have lived in a set of circumstances long enough, perhaps some aspects of who we are have not been utilized or were set aside for a time and now out of habit they have grown rather dusty.

I will confess that in Wittenberg I began to think of how my Lutheran core beliefs had grown just a bit dusty in my almost 7 years as a military chaplain. While it is a good thing that I've added many new tools to my "toolbox" to care for folks and I work in a wonderful diverse environment, it was good to be reminded of the hope that is found at the heart of the Reformation and that this hope is central to my life: Salvation by faith alone, as declared in Scripture alone, received as a free gift of grace alone, because of what Christ alone has done in his death and resurrection. I had began to think of myself as an "Air Force Chaplain" which I am and hopefully will remain for I love this job. But I am reminded that I am also a Lutheran pastor and my job is not just a job - it is a calling. When you are not all that special and you are surrounded by some very talented and dedicated folks it is easy to forget that one is called to a special task, not because of being better or superior. But God gives us all a vocation because He creates us all with unique gifts and talents and calls us to place those in service to one another and just to ourselves.

These past few weeks have been time of reflection, re-formation. Touching my roots. Thinking of my present. Preparing for my future. Taking stock. Being thankful for what remains and aware that all things change and some of them should be relished while they are present.

A Rose is Fallen

2011-09-24T11:22:00.000+01:00

The Reedy's and the Lester's have inhabited the Appalachian Mountains for hundreds of years. Near the town of Richlands Virginia, where my father was raised and where my mother met my father, rises a small creek that meanders its way through Southwest Virginia into Tennessee and past the Kmart where my mother worked and retired. It is along this creek, Reedy Creek, that my favorite place to run is found, the Kingsport Greenbelt. It was here that I gave my mother her last rose. I had collected one perfect blossom from her graveside as we laid her to rest at the foot of "her mountain" in Tazewell Virginia, where she was born and raised. I committed that rose to the waters of Reedy Creek as the day before we had committed her body to rest in the ground at the foot of those enduring mountains to await the promised resurrection of our Lord.

My mother passed away on Sept 13th. She went quietly and gently and I am thankful for that.

There is a tradition in my family that started with my mother. She didn't get her first full dozen roses from my father until she had a baby. And when I was born he gave her another dozen. In keeping with that tradition I never gave a woman a dozen roses until my own wife had our first child.

I was home in July to visit with her. Somehow I knew in her voice could be shorter than it appeared. I trimmed her bushes back and in so doing found a Rose bush Dad had planted many years ago. It had a beautiful pink blossom on it. I cut this and took it inside for her.

My mother was a simple woman with a simple and solid faith and lots of determination. I have told my daughters it is not wrong to be stubborn, as long as you are stubborn about the right things. My mother was a person who was about right things. She spent her life caring and providing for her family.

A rose if fallen. Perhaps in the metaphor of a cut rose there is a truth to behold. For the roses we give are cut from the vine and we know their beauty lasts only a brief moment. But we hold them and appreciate them while they are here and treasure the memories when they are gone. But back to that pink rose I gave Mom from Dad's rose bush. The rest of the story is that he tried several times to eliminate that bush as it was a wild rose bush. But it kept coming back.

There is a great truth. Death does not get the final word. God does not permit it. His Son defeated death and His resurrection is his sign and seal of a promise. Eternal life. Redeemed life. New creation. I look forward to it.

The words of her favorite hymn capture her hope and faith. I remember her and Dad singing this on road trips and in church.

There is coming a day,
When no heart aches shall come,
No more clouds in the sky,
No more tears to dim the eye,
All is peace forever more,
On that happy golden shore,
What a day, glorious day that will be.

What a day that will be,
When my Jesus I shall see,
And I look upon His face,
The One who saved me by His grace;
When He takes me by the hand,
And leads me through the Promised Land,
What a day, glorious day that will be.

There'll be no sorrow there,
No more burdens to bear,
No more sickness, no pain,
No more parting over there;
And forever I will be,
With the One who died for me,
What a day, glorious day that will be.

What a day that will be,
When my Jesus I shall see,
And I look upon His face,
The One who saved me by His grace;
When He takes me by the hand,
And leads me through the Promised Land,
What a day, glorious day that will be

Eleven Bells Nine Petitions, A Prayer for September 11

2011-09-16T19:23:00.000+01:00

THE FIRST BELL

The FirstBell is a call for silence and remembrance.

THE SECOND BELL

Lord, withthis second bell we call upon You to remember the families of those who losttheir lives at the Twin Towers in New York City. We give thanks for the heroic sacrifice offire fighters, police and other first responders who thought more of saving thelives of others than of their own. We askyou mercy on those who grieve this day family and friends killed ten years agotoday in New York.

THE THIRD BELL

Lord, withthis third bell we call upon You to comfort the families to those killed whileon duty in the Pentagon. They died attheir post defending the security of the nation they loved. So we call upon you to pour out your loveupon those who mourne their passing this day.

THE FOURTH BELL

Lord, withthis fourth bell we give you thanks for the heroes who sacrificed their livesto save others in taking back their plane. Later today the remains of those who died in a field near Shanksville PNwill be laid to rest. Bless thishallowed ground and comfort all who mourn.

THE FIFTH BELL

Lord, withthis fifth bell we ask your mercy for the thousands of men and women who wentforth to defend freedom but who would not return see their families and friendsagain. This day as we recall the pricefor liberty we ask your mercy be upon grieving wives and husbands, daughtersand sons, mothers and fathers and all those who mourn the loss of our fellow warriors.

THE SIXTH BELL

Lord, withthis sixth bell we lift up all those who at this moment are in harm’s way,separated from family, enduring hardships, standing the line between evil andfreedom. Protect our fellow soldiers,airmen, sailors, marines, and all who have gone forth for our nation’sdefense.

THE SEVENTH BELL

Lord, withthis seventh bell we ask your blessing upon our friends, our allies in thesepast ten years of war. Be with the familiesof these noble warriors who have fallen in battle. Prosper these peoples that may ever knowjustice and liberty.

THE EIGHTH BELL

Lord, withthis eighth bell we pray for our leaders in these difficult and troubledtimes. Grant them wisdom and knowledgeto know the right course. Grant courageand resolve to pursue and lead us to accomplish it.

THE NINTH BELL

Lord, withthis ninth bell, we pray for nation the United States. In this time of war and struggle we pray forour survival and our prosperity. We praythat through Your divine providence we might remain a land were freedom andjustice reigns supreme.

THE TENTH BELL

Lord, withthis tenth bell, we bow and pray as you command, and we ask your blessing uponour enemies. We pray that hardenedhearts and minds might be softened by love and moved to mutual respect andunderstanding that the day might come when we might know peace.

THE ELEVENTH BELL

With this eleventh bell we pray in silence...and remember. (bell fades – AMEN)

Invocation

2011-09-11T16:11:00.002+01:00

O Almighty and gracious God,

Move our spirits and minds today to profoundremembrance on this tenth anniversary of 11 September 2001. We remember the tragic and dreadful images ofthat day: people jumping to avoid fire, crumblingtowers, a burning pentagon, and a smoking crater in what shouldhave been a quiet field in Pennsylvania. We are humbled by the reality of what is possible in this world and sowe ask for your grace, your guidance and your blessing.

Bless the families of the 2,977 people killed tenyears ago today. Comfort all for whomthis day is a day of deep sorrow and loss.

We remember the selfless sacrifice of New York Fire fighters who ascended bucklingstaircases into the flames to rescue whothey could. We remember New York policeofficers and Port Authority Officers who lives were sacrificed. We remember those killed on duty at thePentagon. And we remember the innocentvictims, including 8 children, whoseaircraft were turned into instruments of death. We beseech your blessing for their families as they too remember.

And Lord we are especially humbled by the heroes of flight 93 who took back their planeand sacrificed their lives in a field in Pennyslvania that no one else shoulddie.

For no greater love has anyone than to lay down hislife for his friends.

Humble us. Instill in us such a spirit of courage and resolve as we not only look back, but forward. For …

We remember not just the first day but each day of these past ten years in the long waron terror. We pray for the families whohave received into their hands a folded flag following a bugle’s hallowed call signalinga nation’s tribute and sadness at awarrior’s death. We pray for the woundedin body and the broken in spirit. We bowour heads and remember the cost to defend liberty. Bless all for whom this day is day of deepgrieving.

Shelter all who are in harms way. Uphold all who have stepped forward and givenoath to defend freedom. Grant us resolve and endurance.

Most of all we pray for the transformation of heartsand minds from hatred and fear to love and understanding. we pray for peace.

Send us forth to serve. Watch over our forces inbattle, watch over our families in our absence, and bless America and herallies that we remain faithful and true to all that is good and just.

In the name of the One True God we pray… Amen

Invocation

Sept 11 Ten Anniversary Remembrance Ceremony

RAF Alconbury, United Kingdom

501st Combat Support Wing
September 11, 2011

Benediction

2011-09-10T21:16:00.001+01:00

O Almighty and gracious God, today as we close our remembrance of this dreadful day on which many things changed, our thoughts and our prayers go out to each and every family member or friend who has lost a loved one in this long war on terror. We recall those who stepped forward and became heroes as they ascended stricken towers to assist the wounded and fearful, many of whom never came home. We remember those struck down where they worked in the pentagon. We recall those heroes who sacrificed their lives in a field in Pennsylvania as they took back their plane. Lord we pray for the families of all those who grieve.

And our thoughts turn not just to that day but to these past ten years. We give thanks for our nations’ heroes who have raised their hand to defend our constitution and our nation. We give thanks for our allies who with us have made great sacrifices in this noble struggle for liberty. And we remember the fallen and their wives and husbands, their children, their mother’s and fathers. We remember the folded flags presented into the hands of loved ones who would rather have back their warrior but never will. Be with these families as they grieve. We remember those who are right now in harm’s way still fighting for liberty against our enemies. We pray for their safety. We pray for success and victory in their mission. And most of all we pray for peace and for the transformation of human hearts and minds from hatred to love and mutual appreciation. But until that day fill us with resolve and endurance to remain steadfast and faithful in this noble struggle until that day of peace comes.

Send us forth to serve. Watch over our forces in battle, watch over our families in our absence, bless those who mourn and bless our great lands.

In the name of the One True God we pray… Amen

Benediction
Sept 11 Remembrance Ceremony, RAF Molesworth
9 SEP 2011

Ghosts

2011-08-01T12:56:00.001+01:00

July 25th I found myself in lovely Charlotte North Carolina waiting for my return flight to London and back to work. I've been home in the mountains of East Tennessee for a week and a day (thanks to a broken plane that extended my leave by a day).

In some ways it was a week of communing with ghosts. I spent an afternoon visiting my father's grave in Tazewell Virginia and my great grandfather's grave in Richlands. It was haunting to walk the grounds and streets where so many of my relatives lived and where I as a child had visited often -only now all that remains are the hallowed grounds of family graves.

Perhaps that is why as I drove around my old haunts amongst the rolling hills of East Tennessee with memories flowing through my mind, I felt as a ghost visting old familiar places but where life has moved on and is only now a shadow of what once was. I saw only one person that I knew from my past other than my family, an assistant manager at Kmart who helped me find a job once many years ago.

But life does move on and we have new additions to our family including a most beautiful great niece who brought a lot of light to our family gathering. It may the last time that my brother and I are together with our mother as her health is failing. I bid farewell to her this morning with focus as it may very well be the last time I see her in this world. But she has surprised me before fighting back from great weakness. While her body is frail, she has always had a depth of stubborn resistence to the realities of life and a strong spirit.

I have made it a resolution that I shall do all I legally can do to hinder the cigarette industry that directly contributed to the death of my father and has now robbed the vitality from my mother to the point that she and her life is only a shell of what once was.

Even the community has changed and in some ways is only a shadow of what once was. The city of Kingsport has gobbled up the surrounding county neighborhoods filling their coffers with new taxes and their schools with new bodies. Band camp was starting this morning at my old high school so I stopped for a minute to watch. Twenty-five years ago we fielded 350 people in our band. Today I counted 25. And they looked so young.

In the midst of so much change I am amazed at home much the community has remained the same. Homes look much the same. The Reedy Creek park has changed little and a run or walk there continues to be therapy for the soul. (Though I did see a wild black ferrit for the first time). I logged 35 miles on that trail this week and made lots of friends from the community of ducks that reside there thanks to some old bread. The ridge lines remain the same though there seemed to be more timber in the fields than in the past. Mom's neighbors remain the same - though bit more gray around the ages - so I fit right in.

A Significant Death

2011-05-02T10:05:00.004+01:00

Today is a remarkable day. I woke to a beautiful sunrise in England and to the profound news that Osama Bin Laden was killed by U.S. Navy Seals this morning. It has been more than ten years since he declared war on the United States. There is rejoicing in many parts of the world, but I find myself sober and reflective.

I remember where I was and what I was doing that fateful Tuesday morning Sept 11, 2001. I remember the memorial service we held that night at Trinity Lutheran Church in Cincinnati. I soon started to research coming into the Air Force as a chaplain but the course of my ministry would postpone that decision until 2005. But this "long war", this "global war on terror" was on my mind and in the end moved me to join - to become part of the line to defend our nation from Osama and his ilk, indeed to defend justice and freedom.

Part of me wonders why it took so long to bring justice to Osama. Part of me wonders if it might have been wiser to capture him and bring him to justice in a public court of law. I read a comment by someone that now we can say "mission accomplished". But this long war is far more complex than just the life or death of this one man. He was this war's catalyst but it has grown much bigger than him, and in my opinion, had already grown much larger and beyond him.

I think it may not have been wise to kill him to early. Like a hydra, to make a martyr of him in the early days could have created many more impassioned leaders and a much bigger monster to slay. President Bush and our military went for the body, not the head. For myself the mission was accomplished every single day there was not a terror attack on the United States. Every single threat which was discovered and stopped was mission accomplished.

Yes the battle in Afghanistan rages, but think of it -- those who used Afghanistan as a harbor were so quickly devestated and unable to strike our nation again. What harm was Osama able to do after we moved to action in the fall of 2001? It has been a long road. One where pundits debate wisdom and morality. But what do we see. Iraq on its way to being a free nation - still has its problems -but no longer a threat to her neighbors nor under the thumb of a dictator. We see mass popular movements toward freedom and justice coming to birth.

Yes it is messy and the war rages on for it is more than just seeking the head of one man or stopping the heart of one man. This war is more about winning the hearts and heads of our entire human race. Liberty for all. Justice for all. Peace for all. A tall order. For there are still those out there moved by hatred. A shooting killing Air Force personnel in Germany. Another in Afghanistan. Families grieve.

I find it hard to celebrate a death - for I grieve at the necessity that exists within humanity that it is necessary to inflict death to preserve life. But in this case it was just.

I find it hard to celebrate this death for I doubt it will go far in changing hearts and minds. We isolated his influence and ability to strike our nation years ago. Osama had been isolated and locked down in his little compound limited to issuing a few statements now and then - the real battle leaders of terror had moved on. So I doubt this will change the reality of this war very much - for it has already moved far beyond Osama bin Laden.

I do fear that if we think the war is over because the life of Osama bin Laden is over and we quit - he may have given the final thing he could to advance his cause - turning himself into a martyr.

But perhaps the time has come to remove this symbol of where it started - now that new things are in the works and people in the Middle East are themselves calling for justice and freedom.

Time will tell.

I've seen this war up close and personal. I've been fired upon in Iraq as rockets pounded our base. I've held the hands of wounded and carried the dead. I've buried our dead in the hallowed sanctuary that is Arlington when they were killed by terrorists. I've walked the sacred ground where victims from the Pentagon rest. I've walked the sacred ground in Pennsylvania where the first American heroes gave their lives to prevent what might have been an attack on the White House or the Capitol Building. I've counseled those who had to deal with the loss of friends and comrades. I've counseled couples whose marriages were strained by repeated deployments. I've blessed those going out of the wire into harms way and given thanks when they safely returned. These young men and women are the truest of heroes, the truest of servants, for in the end it is their blood that pays the price for liberty and by their wounds of body and soul is justice preserved.

It is a long war. It suspect it is far from done. Every day justice stands and freedom endures is "mission accomplished".

Serenity

2011-04-30T08:39:00.005+01:00

God grant me the courage to change the things I can change,
The Serenity to Accept what cannot be changed
And the wisdom to know the difference.
--R. Niebuhr

I often use this well known quotation for my counselees -- but over the course of these years of serving as a military chaplain I've modified it a bit. I will tell them courage should be for that which not only "can" be changed but "should be changed".

Now after living in Enland through fall, winter, and coming into a gorgeous spring I find myself thinking the second line could be expanded as well to include: the spirit to revel in what is good and not be tarnished by what is bad.

There is a beautiful serenity about the English countryside that is reflected in the lives of most of the Britons I have met thus far. Here one finds a modern country that has all that our advanced modern technologically enhanced society offers but still yet has managed to preserve its historic culture without trampling all over nature.

In my neighborhood there are a cluster of small efficient newer homes, of which I occupy one. The focus is on quality not square footage. We have a small garden and solarium and time spent there is good for the soul. Nearby are homes from more ancient days with thatched roofs and low ceilings. There is one rinky dink McDonald's in town. We've been there twice. Wasn't all that nourishing in any capacity to be truthful. But there are dozens of quaint pubs each with its own special personality. The best food I've had in the past year has been in these establishments.

This is a land where flowers, animals, and people bloom and grow together. Rare is it that I see litter on the streets or in the fields. Neighbors talk to neighbors. A moment of refreshment is just a short walk away to the nearest park or preserve. God's creation is on display for one to relish and even signs of human habitation compliment rather than overcome the landscape.

History

2011-04-22T06:09:00.003+01:00

It is Good Friday. Today, we commemorate the start of the most important days in history - the days God most fully revealed His heart and our destiny. Today we remember the death of Jesus, who was the Creator God Himself come in living flesh to seek out a people who had traveled far from Him. And though they put Him to death, He forgave them. Sunday we shall remember and celebrate His resurrection - the triumph of life over death, mercy over judgment, creation over destruction, goodness over evil.

Blessed Holy Day to you.

RIF

2011-02-27T18:46:00.003Z

RIF Reduction in force. Dreaded words for officers in the United States Air Force. Yesterday I learned that yes indeed chaplain may be faced with being asked to leave the Air Force because we are over strength. A 10% draw down of the office corp is coming. So this year it looks like I'll face my first RIF board and learn if I continue to have the privilege of serving as a chaplain in the world's finest Air Force.

As I read the words that chaplains were to be considered it hit home as to why this is so important to me and why it doesn't surprise me. See the reason we are over strength is that officers are staying in the Air Force beyond what one would think. Some say that is because the economy is bad and perhaps that is part of it. But I truly believe a great deal more is at play than just people wanting a job. The people I work with, officer and enlisted, don't just want a job... they want their job -- this job. I can't speak for them but I know why I love my job.

First it is plain and simple the people I work with. I have never worked with a finer group of men and women in my life than I find at every single duty station where I have served.

I was recently asked to take charge of our unit's physical training program given I have some history and success with physical training. The Air Force recently instituted changes that have made our physical training test more demanding and our folks have stepped up. Every week this winter they have inspired me as at O'dark thirty they have gotten up and while most people are still in bed and joined to run and workout. Because of the nature of this particular group, most are over the age of 40 and yet they can run circles around the typical young adult. How many folks are out running 2-4 miles on a regular basis before dawn? Every single one of my airmen. Then they go to work and turn in at full pace worked packed 8-14 hour days (depending on the day and the demands of the job). Many of these guys are at their stations getting the job done 7 days a week. Dedication. Hard work. Production. They are amazing.

But beyond this they serve as an inspiration -- not just the one's in uniform but our extended Air Force family -- our civilian employees and our families. When one of my chapel ladies came down with cancer the biggest challenge that presented itself was finding a way to plug in all the folks who stepped forward to enfold this family in their arms and to help. From food, to child care, to transportation, to singing Christmas carols on the doorstep... there was no doubt this family would have anything they needed so they could concentrate on getting Mom well. With my airmen this is not the exception... this is the standard.

I love my job because I love these people.

This week sometime we will remember one of our fallen airmen... a young 20 year old man, Christoffer Johnson, who when the time for deployment into harm's way came, stepped forward and volunteered to stand the line between evil and liberty. He was killed while on patrol in the desert in a vehicle accident. A true loss of a noble heart.

I love my job because I get to serve with these people and I get to serve these people. I've been invited into the lives of those grieving the loss of loved ones, and those struggling to hold their marriages together through financial difficulty and long separations. I've celebrated with families when blessed with the news of coming little ones and I've joined folks together in marriage. I've laid to rest thousands of veterans with honor and I've had the honor of praying for a multitude of retirements, promotion ceremonies, WWII squadron reunions, laid wreaths at the graves of fallen soldiers in Arlington, and prayed to remember the fallen at Kohbar Towers. I've preached all over the US, in South Korea, in the United Kingdom and in Iraq. I've prayed for soldiers as they geared up to patrol the streets of Kirkuk and airmen as they moved out to take their post on the perimeter in the midst of the desert. I've prayed with EOD troops who lost a comrad and held the hands and prayed for those who came to our hospital as their first step home after being wounded. I've carried my brothers on their first steps home when they have fallen and stood with my fellow warriors rendering salute as the plane made its taxi to take our fallen home. I've done marriage enhancement seminars, played with military youth, talked about the difficulties of parents who go to war with these kids. I've conducted suicide prevention briefs and divorce recovery groups. I have stood in the presence of giants like Col (ret.) Norm McDaniel who came and spoke for me last year at our National Prayer Breakfast in Korea.

I remember when I was a young man and not certain where I was going praying to God that I didn't ask for an easy path just a possible path and one that would make a difference. I love my job because every days I am invited into the lives of my fellow service members to make a difference and with them -- we do make a difference.

I would miss my job if asked to leave. I would miss these people. It would be especially hard to leave in the midst of a war when it is not yet finished. Too much is at stake. But if I am asked to separate I will be thankful that I've had six years, the best six years thus far of my life, to serve with the finest folks doing the most important thing that can be done in the world right now.

Light in the darkness

2011-01-08T08:47:00.003Z

On a cold Christmas Eve in an ancient land in a cold stone building, built many hundreds of years ago one small candle shown out to light the surrounding darkness. It was Christmas Eve. And thousands packed the magnificent cathedral of Ely to join with the gifted voices of the choirs of this Christian community to praise that vital event of the birth of the Messiah. Here was no generic holiday celebration. Thousands brave the cold of this unheated but beautiful building to join in worship, thanksgiving, and reflection of the beginning of the most significant event to shape human destiny: the birth of a redeemer. It was humbling to be a small part of that assembly.

Thankful

2010-11-28T19:23:00.002Z

God has not promised riches but I am thankful for all that He has enriched me with including my family, my friends, and the privilege of serving as a chaplain to some of the finest people I've ever known.

God has not promised health and vitality but I am thankful that for being 45 years old and slightly broken from an old injury that I am in good health and able to do what I need to do.

God has not promised justice nor liberty but I am thankful that I am a citizen of a nation that holds liberty as its greatest virtue.

God has not promised the faithful of His church will have it easy in this world but I am thankful that I can gather with my brothers and sisters in Christ and worship in freedom and teach my daughters the great wonders of the grace of God.

What God has promised is to be with us. And so as we draw from Thanksgiving into advent, the time of expectant waiting, and into the celebration of Christmas I am most thankful for Emmanuel -- God with us -- for in the infant child of Jesus, God became flesh and opened salvation for all who would receive Him.

And I am thankful for the service at St. Paul's Cathedral in London this past Thanksgiving that reminded me of what God has promised and to be thankful for the bounty when it comes but to be more thankful for the presence of God for bounty if all too often temporary and trouble may arrive on the morrow.

Encouraged

2010-11-21T20:37:00.002Z

President Abraham Lincoln was a great man. A visionary. A leader. A humble servant of our nation. It is most encouraging to know he was also a great man of faith in God. In an age when I often here from some that the Christian faith is about "fairy tales" it is worth remembering that the Christian faith was at the core of this great man. His faith defined and shaped how he viewed himself and how he viewed his fellow human beings. His faith in God gave him strength to endure through the great struggle that was the Civil War. As we draw near to Thanksgiving it is fitting to remember his proclamation of thanksgiving and not be blind to the role his faith played in his life and through him in the life of our nation:

By the President of the United States of America. A Proclamation. The year that is drawing towards its close, has been filled with the blessings of fruitful fields and healthful skies. To these bounties, which are so constantly enjoyed that we are prone to forget the source from which they come, others have been added, which are of so extraordinary a nature, that they cannot fail to penetrate and soften even the heart which is habitually insensible to the ever watchful providence of Almighty God. In the midst of a civil war of unequaled magnitude and severity, which has sometimes seemed to foreign States to invite and to provoke their aggression, peace has been preserved with all nations, order has been maintained, the laws have been respected and obeyed, and harmony has prevailed everywhere except in the theatre of military conflict; while that theatre has been greatly contracted by the advancing armies and navies of the Union. Needful diversions of wealth and of strength from the fields of peaceful industry to the national defence, have not arrested the plough, the shuttle or the ship; the axe has enlarged the borders of our settlements, and the mines, as well of iron and coal as of the precious metals, have yielded even more abundantly than heretofore. Population has steadily increased, notwithstanding the waste that has been made in the camp, the siege and the battle-field; and the country, rejoicing in the consiousness of augmented strength and vigor, is permitted to expect continuance of years with large increase of freedom. No human counsel hath devised nor hath any mortal hand worked out these great things. They are the gracious gifts of the Most High God, who, while dealing with us in anger for our sins, hath nevertheless remembered mercy. It has seemed to me fit and proper that they should be solemnly, reverently and gratefully acknowledged as with one heart and one voice by the whole American People. I do therefore invite my fellow citizens in every part of the United States, and also those who are at sea and those who are sojourning in foreign lands, to set apart and observe the last Thursday of November next, as a day of Thanksgiving and Praise to our beneficent Father who dwelleth in the Heavens. And I recommend to them that while offering up the ascriptions justly due to Him for such singular deliverances and blessings, they do also, with humble penitence for our national perverseness and disobedience, commend to His tender care all those who have become widows, orphans, mourners or sufferers in the lamentable civil strife in which we are unavoidably engaged, and fervently implore the interposition of the Almighty Hand to heal the wounds of the nation and to restore it as soon as may be consistent with the Divine purposes to the full enjoyment of peace, harmony, tranquillity and Union. In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the Seal of the United States to be affixed. Done at the City of Washington, this Third day of October, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and sixty-three, and of the Independence of the Unites States the Eighty-eighth. By the President: Abraham Lincoln William H. Seward, Secretary of State

Wishing

2010-11-09T05:39:00.002Z

There have been some beautiful days here in England. The locals have told me that the weather has been more temperate than it normally would be for this time of year. It is 0530 and in an hour I'll be forming up for unit PT. I wish this morning was a beautiful day.

But it isn't. It is cold -- 43 degrees...and rainy. And windy, blustery actually. So, PT this morning probably won't be much fun.

I wish it were different. But wishing doesn't make it so.

It is amazing though how often we live as though wishing did make it so. I am a called and ordained Christian minister (of the Lutheran confession). I say that upfront because I believe in integrity. I believe folks have a right to know where someone is coming from. So getting back to my point about wishing something were so doesn't make it so.

Now sometimes having a dream is good. When I was 24 and weighed 320 I dreamed about not weighing 320 -- and that helped motivate me to do something about it.

But there are some things I know that can't change. Sometimes I think it would have been cool to live in a different place and time and I daydream about this or maybe write about it (yes, I am one of many who are working on a book). But that doesn't make it so. I live here in 2010.

There have been times I wished my bank account had something else to say. But wishing didn't make it so.

There were times I wish I had a day off, but again truth is truth.

Sometimes I have read things in the Scripture and thought boy I wish that were different. If I were God I might have done things differently. But in spite of our wishes (and often our actions and presumptions) we are not God nor gods. God is our creator. And the Bible says what it says. And I believe that the Bible says what God has to say to us. And I believe he means what He says.

Yes, sometimes I don't fully understand. I was having a discussion with a fellow minister last night about a particular item on which the church is divided. If left up to me I would side with that individual. But it isn't left up to me. Wishing something were different doesn't make it so. There are times when dealing with God and reality that you have to accept what is given and trust. God is our Creator. I figure since He made us He knows something about how we are designed to fit together.

But the world is fallen and things aren't goign as designed. Sickness was not part of the original design. I have family who are fighting cancer. As I get older there are days I feel mortality in my bones. I've lost friends. I've seen first hand the damage that sin does to the lives of people from those who were sexually assaulted or fallen victim to substance abuse, and it goes on and on. Not part of the original design. Flawed. Fallen. Sinful. I remember talking to one alcoholic who has what is probably an inherited (as it runs in his family) predisposition to an overwhelming desire for alcohol who wavered between feeling worthless one minute to blaming God for creating him that way. Neither is true. The truth is that sin has effected us all - to some it has a much bigger impact and to some lesser -- but it effects us all (and it is fatal as we all die). Not part of the original design but true. Wishing it were different doesn't make it different. Pretending sin isn't sin doesn't make it not sin. Blaming God for creating us this way and using that as an excuse to live it out rather than recognizing it for what it is doesn't change it.

Truth is truth. God's Word says truth and I believe God knows what He is talking about.

But there is reason to dream and to hope. Because that same Word offers hope in the gift of Jesus and the promise of everlasting life. Yes it is faith. Yes it is hope. Yes is a dream I hope and believe will come true. Dreams can come true -- I did loose 160 pounds. Things can change. Miracles do happen. But in the case of everlasting life it is not just an empty hope that runs against all evidence - it is a hope that clings to God's Word. God's Word speak truth and I believe God knows what He is talking about.

So in the fall of life -- with winter ahead -- I believe spring is around the corner. So what are a few colder dreary days. The truth of "now" cannot overcome the promise of spring.

Excited

2010-10-14T17:44:00.003+01:00

After two months we are settling in well into our new home and our new chapel community. I am very pleased to discover a large enough group to begin having a Lutheran based liturgical service on Sunday mornings as well as having a number of folks who need junior confirmation. So October 31st, Reformation I'll hold my first service and confirmation will start on the 25th.

There truly are a great bunch of folks in our chapel community here. Caring, devoted, gifted and giving. Last night our ladies hosted a big chili dinner for all our dorm residents, single airmen, sailors, soldiers and marines who live in dormitory type housing. Great food, well attended and much appreciated.

Alconbury is looking like it is going to be one great place to do ministry.

10 years

2010-10-12T20:18:00.005+01:00

Ten years is not such a long time. Ten years ago I was serving as a parish pastor in Cincinnati and working as a hospital chaplain part-time at the University of Cincinnati Trauma Center. Ten years ago today I felt a renewed kinship with my fellow sailors as I had served in the United States Naval Reserve until just a few years before. For ten years ago today was the cowardly evil attack by Islamic terrorists on the USS Cole that resulted in 17 deaths, numerous injuries, grieving families and friends and signaled what we now know was the opening salvo in what has been called the Long War and the War on Terror. Ten years ago today Bin Laden followed through on his threats and our lives have not been the same.

I remember. Before 9/11 was the USS Cole. I remain resolved.

Ten years now and counting. I claim only to speak for myself, but I remain resolved. Against evil there can be no quarter given. Against evil their can be no retreat and no surrender for evil is without mercy. Evil knows not one shred of compassion. It knows only desire for domination and destruction. Evil has one goal: to deliver slavery or death. Sad is the necessary day when free men of courage and honor must unsheathe the sword and go to war, but what else can a free society do when to sit idly by is to invite slavery or slaughter.

There is always a cost. A dark, dreadful, painful cost to action that can only be superseded by the cost of inaction.

Today I pray for the families: the parents, the wives and husbands, the children, all family and friends whose lives were torn by the loss of loved ones because evil reached out to destroy. Today I pray a prayer of thanksgiving for those honorable men and women who stand the line against the onslaught of evil knowing their blood may be the next to be shed. Today I pray for victory and for peace -- but real peace, not the peace that might momentarily come from hiding averting one's eyes until it is too late.

Today I remember these words:

For rulers are not a terror to good conduct, but to bad.
Would you have no fear of the one who is in authority?
Then do what is good, and you will receive his approval, for he is God's servant for your good.
But if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not bear the sword in vain.
For he is the servant of God, an avenger who carries out God's wrath on the wrongdoer.
(Romans 13:3-4)

And so I pray too for our leaders and our forces that we may never forget why we must fight, though necessary it is, we take no pleasure in unsheathing the sword and we are ready to fight and die if necessary not for dominion but for freedom, for the good.

First Month

2010-09-19T21:42:00.003+01:00

A beautiful sunrise welcomed my family to the United Kingdom as we approached Heathrow International Airport.

We have been in the UK a bit over a month now. We have learned the art of navigating round abouts and the British banking system. I've been out to our large sister base at Lakenheath and also Mildenhall. We've wondered around Cambridge. Just this morning I had some great spicey Indian food with some a good friend and his wife who I know from Iraq. The last of my personal possessions arrive tomorrow. Ministries are starting to spin up and I'm getting into the groove of ministry here.
It took us about two weeks to find our home of the next few years - a quite cozy place tucked away in the community not terribly far from base.

One key highlight of the past month, I was honored to be invited to attend the 70th anniversary of the Battle of Britain commemoration held here. A sunset retreat with flyover by a Spitfire, it was memorable and solemn. It reminded me that here on this land the battle for liberty and indeed one might argue civilization itself, hung in the balance in those days.

Transitions

2010-08-08T13:57:00.004+01:00

Very busy month during my transition from Korea to my next duty station in the UK. This morning I awake after the first full night of sleep I've had in a while, due in part to jet lag and due in part to just plain having a lot of stuff to do. July was very busy in Korea with a full up exercise, that was actually fun looking back on it, but with moments of not so fun. That was followed by lots of hoops to jump through to get cleared from Korea and make sure the new team was fully briefed to insure continuity of our mission. Was also working to make sure VBS was ready to go (and thanks to some incredible volunteers it was going gang busters when I departed).

So last Thursday I stepped on board the Patriot Express (I miss Korean Air) and started the long flight to Seattle, with a stop over in Japan. It was a beautiful day in Japan. I was one of the first to check in for the flight so I had an incredible seat (very much appreciated on such a long flight) right up on the exit row. Lots of room to stretch out. The plane was old and no frills but the service was very good. They gave us enough food to feed us for a week, which came in handy given that my flight out of Seattle on Alaskan Air was very bare bones -- they had everything if you wanted to purchase it. First time I've ever been asked to "rent" a movie to watch on the plane. They wanted to sell me beef jerky, which I found amusing because I had had a bag of beef jerky on me but customs took it at the agricultural center because I brought it in from oversees. But I did manage to keep my other packaged snacks so I was good. I wasn't about to pay 2 prices for beef jerky or cheese and crackers just because I was at 30,000 feet.

The flight was on time, but somehow they goofed up our gate assignment and we had to sit on the ramp for an hour waiting for the gate. Then they lost 1/2 of my luggage. (It finally turned up two days later. I had just given up when they finally admitted to being mystified and that it might never be found and so I was preparing to go spend the day replacing uniforms when they suddenly said they might have a hint of it -- and going to look they found it - in the airport the whole time. It's tag had come off. So a great relief to have my gear back.)

July was also PT month as it is my birthday month. Pushed hard but still missed maxing the test by 30 seconds on the run but a 99 gets me and entire year before I test again.

So this morning finds me in temporary lodging in DC with my family as we spend a few days saying hello/good bye to our friends and our puppy (who is too old to make the trip to the UK) getting ready to go look for a cup of coffee then to the gym to work out and then church and dinner this evening with friends. UK here we come.

The Cost of Liberty

2010-07-07T21:38:00.005+01:00

I awoke in an early morning in Korea reading over the news to find that a friend I worked with at Arlington National Cemetery was killed in Afghanistan. The cost of liberty remains high.

Specialist Louis (Lou) Fastuca was killed in Abdulhamid Kalay in Afghanistan on 5 July when his vehicle was attacked with an IED. He was 24. He was from West Chester Pennsylvania.

He was a great kid. I always loved his sense of humor. He was always in good humor himself and loved to banter around in the office. Truly a great loss.

I ask my readers to keep his family in their prayers. And pray for victory and for peace.

Still Celebrating Liberty

2010-07-07T01:16:00.002+01:00

AMERICA THE BEAUTIFUL

O beautiful for spacious skies,
For amber waves of grain,
For purple mountain majesties
Above the fruited plain!
America! America!

God shed his grace on thee

And crown thy good with brotherhood
From sea to shining sea!

O beautiful for pilgrim feet
Whose stern impassioned stress
A thoroughfare of freedom beat
Across the wilderness!
America! America!

God mend thine every flaw,

Confirm thy soul in self-control,
Thy liberty in law!

2010-07-05T03:03:00.001+01:00

We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, that among these are Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness

Happy 4th of July

2010-07-04T03:21:00.001+01:00

The Star Spangled Banner (Verse 4)

O! thus be it ever, when freemen shall stand
Between their loved home and the war's desolation!
Blest with victory and peace, may the heav'n rescued land
Praise the Power that hath made and preserved us a nation.
Then conquer we must, when our cause it is just,
And this be our motto: "In God is our trust."
And the star-spangled banner in triumph shall wave
O'er the land of the free and the home of the brave!

AF Chaplains in the News

2010-05-17T13:17:00.002+01:00

Worth the read. Hits the big rocks with what we as AF chaplains do, and talks about the issues surrounding our current draw down.

http://www.stripes.com/article.asp?section=104&article=70025

My last deployment -- waiting for the medivac chopper to come in with wounded.

Presidential Wisdom

2010-05-07T15:10:00.002+01:00

Some great ideas to ponder from our first President, George Washington.

It may be laid down as a primary position, and the basis of our system, that every Citizen who enjoys the protection of a Free Government, owes not only a proportion of his property, but even of his personal services to the defense of it.

Let us with caution indulge the supposition that morality can be maintained without religion. Reason and experience both forbid us to expect that national morality can prevail in exclusion of religious principle.

If the freedom of speech is taken away then dumb and silent we may be led, like sheep to the slaughter.

It is impossible to rightly govern a nation without God and the Bible.

To be prepared for war is one of the most effective means of preserving peace.

True Success Story

2010-05-06T04:40:00.006+01:00

Our team at Osan Air Base is known for its readiness. Our Wing's motto is "Ready to fight tonight" and we are. Exercises here are full up and as realistic as we can make them and they are lots of fun. As a chaplain they provide me lots of opportunities to talk to folks and learn how they do their jobs when push comes to shove. It is always a reconfirming experience - we have some amazing airmen out here. The presence of our military forces in Korea has been a key factor in the amazing success of our Korean friends.

South Korea is a huge success story. When the communists sought to unify the country under a repressive dictatorship in the 50s they fought with all they had. By the time the war was over, the country was devastated. It had no true urban centers. No true infrastructure. Even the trees were erased from the landscape. Today as you drive through Korea, just 60 years later, you find an amazing prosperous modern country with a thriving economy and people enjoying a thriving democracy with a healthy respect for liberty. Equally encouraging for me personally is that in the midst of this fertile environment where religious liberty is safeguarded the Christian faith is thriving. Also driving through Korea you realize how beautiful a country this is.

But today I read an article that taught me that not only is the amazing Korean work ethic bearing fruit for their human society in its modern economic achievements and standard of living - but the environment has benefited from their work ethic as well. From the article: (By Michael Breen; Korean Times)

When foreign war veterans visit the battlefields in Korea
where they fought North Korean and Chinese forces 60 years ago,
they notice one enormous change in the terrain: trees.
They're everywhere.
The once bare hills of wartime Korea are now clothed in foliage.
(read the full story here)

Happy Birthday Honey

2010-05-04T04:42:00.003+01:00

In about fifteen minutes the day will shift from 3 May to 4 May back in the states, but it has been 4 May for almost 13 hours here -- so I get to celebrate my wife's birthday before she does -- though I must admit its a bit hard to do since she isn't here. Let's just say with the last few busy days, my primary celebration activity has been just plain missing her.

So honey, if you read this: Happy Birthday. I know you are sleeping right now, but when you wake up I want you to know I'm thinking about you.

Happy Birthday

Favorite Things in Korea

2010-04-28T01:12:00.002+01:00

Ok, I have to admit, one of my favorite things to do is stop for a restroom break at one of Korea's infamous rest areas. These really are little travel adventures in themselves. First is the adventure of getting into the busy parking lot and then threading through the traffic to the maze of shopping and restaurants that awaits. Fortunately most places are dual labeled in Korean and English. I don't understand the custom, but all the men's rooms are quite open visually to the public. You can look right in and see the urinals as you walk past. One I've stopped at even had the urinals tangent to a large picture window looking out over a river. Little privacy for the men's side of the house. Can't speak to the women's, though I been told that can be an interesting adventure too.

But the real adventure is exploring what you can find. There is all sorts of unique Korean foods available in the little restaurants. Convenience stores carry their version of treats and snacks. Most are much healthier than ours, but I have yet to find a diet coke there. Usually nice coffee shops, but serving are 1/2 the size of what we would be used to. But the best are the Korean Walnut Cakes. Little bite size breaded pastries with chocolate bean paste inside that are actually the size and shape of walnuts. These are delicious and cheap for what you get.

I say I need a potty break but what I really need is my Walnut Cake fix.

Spring is coming

2010-04-26T09:21:00.009+01:00

Spring is finally coming to Osan. Still chilly today, but we've had some nice warm days.

It is also yellow dust season, which makes for some spectacular sunsets.

Have said goodbye to some great fellow airmen and am saying hello to some great new airmen I am looking forward to serving with.

Was out last weekend to a local orphanage where I was once again blessed by these wonderful Korean children. Not only did we play with them as usual, this time they demonstrated native Korean dancing for us. And they were really very good.

It's Daughter Week

2010-04-26T08:45:00.002+01:00

It is daughter week, so says my older brother (at least in one way I'll always be able to describe myself as "younger".). So in celebration of this wonderful week I announce that I have the two most beautiful talented daughters in all the world. I am very proud of both of them and will be glad to be back home with them again in a few months.

Happy daughter week to my girls!

Wish I Was Home

2010-04-15T13:37:00.001+01:00

(Click Picture)

Dae Dun San

2010-04-14T09:17:00.021+01:00

Monday was a great day to be a born and bread Tennessee hillbilly as our chapel staff tackled some steep rocky out crops in South Korea. This is Mt Dae Dun San. For April, it was a bit chilly and the cherry blossoms are still sleeping here. But as we the final four of us made our way to the top, the sun broke out and the view was incredible.

A fairly stable cable car took us about 1/2 way up the mountain. Then we began a steep ascent to this swinging (yes it swang) bridge.

Then up this steep ladder, climbing between two rocky projections on the side of the mountain.

Here is part of the ascent from the tram up to the bridge. The steps were not typical of the rest of the trip up.

This is a view of the entire mountain from the base where we parked.
At the top the view was astounding. Looking down on the knoll we climbed to reach the ladder, it all looked incredibly small. It didn't take too long to reach the top though. Not really that far in distance but it was straight up (and straight down). Going down was harder than going up.

Then those of us who climbed to the top visited the little shops on the street as we waited for those who didn't want to tackle the full climb to finish up their refreshment. There were nice looking shops and restaurants. Ate some fried ginseng root here. This is a popular treat in Korea. Supposedly very healthy for you. Tasted like deep fried tree root. Lots of fiber.

We stopped for lunch/dinner at a very relaxing restaurant in the area. I had my traditional Be Bim Bop, but I did try this for the first time --- octopus.

It actually wasn't bad covered in pepper sauce. It doesn't have much flavor on its own and is just a bit chewy.

Prayer & Breakfast

2010-03-22T11:28:00.008Z

National Prayer Breakfast --- one of the Chapel's signature events. I was blessed to be on point this year for our Chapel Team's National Prayer Breakfast and thanks to the contribution of many folks I couldn't have asked for it to go any better.

First of all, I was most honored to have an esteemed Airman come all the way from Washington D.C. to serve as our guest speaker. Colonel (ret.) Norman McDanie l encouraged all gathered to "Keep Faith" not only with our nation, but with our fellow airmen, our families, and our God no matter the circumstances. This is something he is most qualified to speak on as he spent over 6 1/2 years in captivity as a POW in Vietnam.

I was blessed to spend quite a bit of time with him this past week. One day we visited the DMZ. Having participated in this tour I now how a healthy respect for those who stand their post there on that line and especially in the Joint Security Area. I will confess that I was very ignorant of significant history there. For example knew nothing until this tour about operation Paul Bunyan and the death by axe of a fellow Captain named Bonifas. It was earie looking north into the rugged mountains and seeing a lone North Korean sentry looking back. It was a cold and blustery place, and not entirely because winter has not fully lifted yet in Korea.

How different South Korea is. A few days later, Col McDaniel, my boss, and myself aided by our language specialist made our way into Suwon to visit the fortress there and have some lunch. Lunch was very good, as can be seen by the nearly empty table. And as we made our way up the incline to look out over the city of Suwon from the ridge the fortress topped, it began to snow - cold but beautiful, though I was wishing I had my hat. (Sort of one of the risks you run when you keep all your hair cut off.) Still yet, we took time in the cold to ring the bell of harmony. Far away from family, there was something still quite powerful about this huge solemn tone ringing out over the entire city in celebration of one's family.

The Prayer Breakfast itself was a very enjoyable event. It is hard to believe that it is already over. So much work goes into preparing a big event with lots of moving pieces that when it is over it seems like it flew by. But it was well worth it. The ROKAF (Korean Air Force) chapel here at Osan brought their choir over and they were amazing. I had the idea of inviting someone to do something like this from the National Prayer Breakfast I attended at Bolling where the AF Singing Sergeants performed. I have to say the ROKAF Choir was easily their equal. They brought their String/Wind ensemble and had liturgical dancers with 30 vocalists and I had goose bumps both for their practice and their performance.

Col McDaniel kept the crowd enraptured during his entire address. Afterwards people flocked to have their pictures made with him or to shake his hand. All week I saw how he naturally connected to folks. On the bus trip back from the DMZ, he had so impressed our Korean tour guide, that she introduced him to everyone and they gave him a huge round of applause.

Dog Days

2010-03-13T03:24:00.003Z

Spring is trying to pop out here at Osan. I've seen the first signs of buds on the trees, but it is cold today, in the 30s. Lots of wind yesterday, big wind.

But in these sort of dreary dog days of spring with the promise of newness to come, is also a bit of sadness about our impending move to England. We have discovered to that England is a very difficult country to import a family pet to. Our dachshund has been part of our family for 14 years now. But my wife and I are beginning to think that the long trip locked in a carrier all the way to England may be more than our puppy can handle. For one, the six month process doesn't officially begin until later this month, which puts her arriving about a month after me. So either my family holds in the US for a while after my departure, or we find someone to put out puppy on the plane for us. But that isn't the biggest issue for her. She does not travel well in a puppy carrier. We're not sure about how well she will do in the transit or what the impact may be on her health. So we are thinking of having someone keep her.

But all in all, it will be hard on all of us to leave her behind. She's been part of our family almost since the first day we've been family. But our story is not unique.

Separation from family is not unique in military service. In fact it is expected and typical.

As I reflect over my five years of active duty service and my expected service until retirement, I realize just how different our lives as an American military family differ from the typical American family.

Military families don't have the full range of freedom that most American families have.

Military families are often told where they will live. It is not like we can pick up an move anywhere we want. The needs of the military will dictate where we live for the most part. We can ask for a particular geographic area, and the needs and desires of the family are considered, but in the end it is the posting that decides where we live.

Which impacts the continuity of the family's life experience. Mobility means a change in environment. Different environments mean different resources, both in quantity and in quality available to the family. This can be desirable as the base of experience is broader, but the consistence is less simply because the difference is greater. Personally I think the gain in experience is worth the trade off in continuity. I miss home for instance, and I realize that my children will not equate home with "one place", but they will be better equipped for the demands of mobility in our current world that come in many professions and they will be well equipped to decide "where" they wish to live as they will have experienced different places.

Take schooling for instance. Schooling will be interrupted. It will be eclectic because military families move often and schooling quality could be radically different from one location to the next. But most Americans are dependent on the community in which they live for the quality of the schooling for their children. Not everyone can afford private education. Not every community offers the same resources.

Different places do have challenges as well as opportunities in the socialization and upbringing of my children. Not ever social value and way of life is truly valuable in a scale focused on quality, especially when weighed by a value set that is shaped and informed by the vision set for by our God and Creator in the Holy Scriptures. I am a Christian and make no apology but only offer humble thanks for the fact that my values are shaped by the Holy Spirit speaking to me through the Old and New Testaments. I realize that to many this is "quaint" and to some "harmful" but I have found it anything but. That said, I have the challenge of teaching my children to think critically with an informed mindset regarding what the world around them offers them.

Many freedoms for military members and families are curtailed in comparison to the rest of American citizens. Mission drives some. Quality of life and concerns to keep a strong professional and competent military force with healthy families drive others.

We carry military ID cards. My card had embedded in a chip certain personal information. I have to provide the card when demanded in many situations. I find the current debate on a National ID card to be interesting when I hear fears about the "government" have so much personal information on tap. It already does so for those of us in uniform.

In some places, depending on the location, the mission, and the country we are told what we can and cannot own, sometimes what we can and cannot eat or drink, and so forth. Sometimes there are curfews. If we live on base, we can't bring just anyone over. Speed limits are very small and you don't dare go over or you can loose driving privileges. There is no such thing as one DUI after another. One DUI is usually death to an officer's career and will normally result in suspension of permission to drive on base.

So there are many restrictions. But the curious thing is this: the quality of life seems so much better. On base I'll let my children play in the front yard and don't worry about them. I let them go without concern to our activities centers or be enrolled in a program because the people volunteering have had background checks and are known to our community. We drive slow, but when I'm walking I feel safe because people do obey crosswalks. Smart restrictions and higher accountability, for us, in my humble opinion leads to a higher quality of life.

So what does this have to do with the dog?

I love that old elongated puppy. I'll never forget when my new wife and I went to look at these puppies for the first time in this dilapidated house trailer in Illinois. Out came a line of puppies following a toddler who was clothed in nothing but a diaper. And the last one in line, a little tiny runt of a thing, came over and put her paw on my wife's foot. (She still does that.) It was instant magic.

It will be hard to leave our little elongated puppy behind. But I have orders and she may not tolerate the plane ride. And the benefits to my family economically, socially, on all scales are so great in my head I know it would be foolish to sacrifice a career for a 14 year old dog. But the heart grieves the decisions of the head because this dog is a member of the family.

Of course we haven't fully decided yet. Decisions of the heart are often like that... stubborn to listen hoping for another way. And maybe there is. Perhaps that is a key thing about being human... logic does not always have the right answer.

A Little History. A Lot Overdue

2010-03-08T06:31:00.003Z

From the LA Times: Women pilots from World War II to be honored

The groundbreaking Women Airforce Service Pilots were buried without military honors and long denied benefits. But now they'll receive the Congressional Gold Medal.

(Quoting LA TIMES ARTICLE:) By the time the program was disbanded in December 1944, 38 women pilots had lost their lives. But there were no flags or military honors at their funerals. Their bodies were sent home and buried at their families' expense. The surviving WASP veterans paid their own way home and melted from history's pages.

The military decreed that their existence had never been cleared by Congress, and denied them benefits. Arnold's son Bruce lobbied for their recognition as veterans, a status Congress finally conferred in 1977.

This week, with fewer than 300 WASP members still alive, Congress is bestowing Congressional Gold Medals on all the trailblazing pilots. (READ FULL STORY HERE)

Missing

2010-03-06T13:34:00.004Z

It has been a bit of a long day for some reason. Had a bit of time off this afternoon and perhaps had to much time to start thinking, but tonight I find myself missing my family and especially my wife. Be nice to have a cuddle in front of a fireplace. A year is a long time apart. But not an uncommon experience for those of us who serve in uniform.

When I came home from the airport my 3 girls all had flowers to welcome me home.

It's not too often that I've received flowers. I made sure to take photos of them because I want to treasure them in my memories.

Back in the Saddle

2010-03-06T03:59:00.007Z

My boss likes to describe Osan as jumping on and jumping off a high speed train. But for me it is more like riding a half trained horse that has lots of energy and stamina and will get you some place in a hurry, but you can't take your eyes of it for a minute. Let us just say, "I'm back in the saddle and moving at full romp".

I've been back from my mid-tour for about two weeks now. I am resting much better now that I know my daughter's surgery went well and she is now mostly recovered and on the mend. Last Sunday I was back in the pulpit. And while I truly enjoyed being at home and miss my family, I also missed not being in the pulpit. It was good to be leading services again. I have a great bunch of folks that attend the two services that I pastor here at Osan.

Moving full speed ahead (yes, echo from my navy days) on the National Prayer Breakfast. I can't wait. I know the guest speaker is going to be phenomenal as I have heard him speak and I know him from the time I served in D.C. Tickets are going like hotcakes.

Our staff took a day trip to Seoul for some team building which was quite enjoyable. Only the in military would I think that I, someone from the hills of East Tennessee, would experience an opportunity to eat first rate Chinese food in the capitol city of the Republic of Korea not only with Koreans and people born in American, but also someone from the Philippines and someone from Peru as well as (my goodness!) an Alabama fan.

Then I was on the road to visit with one of my squadrons that happens to be located in Daegu, about three and half hours from Osan. It was a cloudy day and the clouds had wrapped the rugged hills and mountains of the landscape tightly. But there was little participation. Strangely, it was cooler the further south we went.

On the way back we stopped at one of the rest areas (put rest areas in the States to shame). I had to get some of the famous Walnut cakes. I love these things. Walnut flavored dough on the outside with chocolate bean paste in the inside. Also bought some to share with the newcomers to our staff.

Yea for my daughter

2010-02-19T00:52:00.003Z

My oldest daughter had her "Black Saga" competition. Her team came in second and will progress onward with her next competition being held in Baltimore. She's been working very hard on this and I am proud of her.

Return

2010-02-18T08:41:00.003Z

Have arrived in Korea and find myself at the airport waiting for the shuttle to my base. The flight presented a pleasant surprise in that it landed an hour early from what my schedule had said. Now I have time to grab a bite to eat here at the airport before the two hour shuttle drive to Osan. Got stuck in a middle seat in the middle of the aircraft, but was still able to sleep for six hours or so. Long flight though. This one seemed much longer than when I first flew over in August, but I know it is a matter of perception.

I had a window seat down to Atlanta and it was a beautiful day as these pictures attest.

I am missing my family. The last few days my littlest girl kept asking me why I have to do this job anyway and why I can't stay for when she goes to the hospital. Hopefully she'll understand better one day.

Foreshadowing

2010-02-17T03:02:00.004Z

One of my favorite literary techniques is the art of foreshadowing, which I first learned about during Advanced Placement English my senior year of high school. Today was sort of a day that felt like foreshadowing to me. It has been a sad day in many ways as I spent my last hours at home with my wife and children. It had me sort of thinking that this must be a bit what it feels like when one knows he is coming toward the end of his life and has limited time left.

It is harder leaving this time than it was in August. I think I am more aware of what I am missing in my family's life, things that I will not regain. My girls are growing leaps and bounds.

My little one is going through rites of passage like loosing her teeth. My oldest is also growing up fast and I am missing her band concerts and debate competitions.

My kids are not the only ones changing. I grew out my beard when I first got home. Boy has it changed - sort of gray now - hair too - this is the longest I've had my hair in awhile. I couldn't take it. As soon as we got back from Tennessee I shaved it off and cut my hair.

We visited some friends where we used to worship that we have not seen for a few years. They have changed too. The older I get the more I recognize how fast time flies and how little time we do have on this earth. But the upside of that is that the next six months are likely going to pass as quickly as the last six did.

So tomorrow I am on an airplane headed back to duty. And I pray to not have to sit next to some fat movie director who thinks because he is rich and famous he can sit in my seat too.

Yes, being a former fat person myself, I have strong opinions about this story circulating through the news these days. I heard something about a group that is working for "fat acceptance". While there is plenty of room for education and sensitivity so that abuse and bullying, especially in school, becomes a thing of the past - I truly hope that people don't loose sight that being grossly overweight is a harmful thing not a good thing. What Southwest did, in my opinion, was not bullying, but holding someone accountable for decisions he had made about his lifestyle and weighing his situation with the fact there are other passengers in his row. Just my two cents on that.

30 Days

2010-02-11T14:56:00.006Z

Midtour - a magic word when one is away from family for a solid year. My 30 days home are rapidly drawing to a close. In less than one week I'll be returning to Korea. It has been an eventful month here at home. Here are some of the highlights.

Change - my kids have grown like crazy. I couldn't believe how big they were when I got off the plane in DC. My oldest will turn 13 soon but she already looks like she could pass for 17. My little one is reading incredibly well for first grade. She's reading books I don't think I could have touched until several years later.

My youngest has a horrible time breathing at night. I've sat up many nights listening to her struggle for breath. I found out about a week after getting home that the doctor has decided she does need surgery to remove tonsils and other stuff and to work to open her airway. She is scared to say the least of what is coming. Unfortunately the surgery is scheduled the week after I am to return to Korea. I could not obtain permission to extend my leave for another week so that I could be here with her.

We spent a little over a week in a cabin down in the Tennessee mountains. We had to stay a bit longer than planned due to snow systems that came through that we had to jog around for our driving. But it worked out fine. We met Rascal the raccoon who made a nightly visit to our cabin.

Met my great niece. She's about 2 months old and cute as a little button. Very proud of my niece and her husband. They are working very hard to make a good life for their family.

Made it back to DC in between major snow storms and just in time for the blizzard (snowmageddon they are calling it here) of Feb 2010. Snow is hip deep and in places shoulder deep. I spent one solid day shoveling just to stay ahead of it. I spent one morning digging out the neighborhood fire hydrant.

When we arrived back in DC we were reminded of how great our neighbors are. We had to really fight the snow and ice to get back to the house. The roads turned bad once we hit highway 66 into DC and the local roads were hardly touched and complicated by many people out who have no real clue how to drive in snow and slush. We spent 2 hours sitting on highway 66 because a trucker got in too big a hurry and went into the side that was not cleared and lost control jack-knifing his rig and blocking all traffic. So as we approached the house we were tired and our nerves were frazzled. And there was a mountain of snow down the entire length of the road across the front of our house, at least 7 feet tall, where the plow had been through. I thought, we'll never get to the house and then suddenly we saw the small hole - our wonderful neighbors had dug out our driveway and sidewalk so we could get in.

This weekend have birthday celebration for my youngest and then it will be time to start packing and getting my head right for return to Korea. Five more months.

White Blankets

2010-01-11T09:36:00.004Z

Osan is wrapped tight in a white blanket of snow. It snowed last week and we've gotten a bit more and the cold has lingered so it hasn't melted. We are expecting more snow this week, which will make things more interesting for our quarterly exercise. This is my last full week before I get to travel home and see my family for the first time since the summer. I am glad this is an exercise week, because it should make this last week go fast.

There are these beautiful evergreens right outside my dorm that truly are something to see with the snow all over them. These photos are taken form outside my dorm looking straight down toward our chapel. It has gotten interesting walking to the chapel though as our engineers purged the water system utilizing the fire hydrants and there is a nice sheet of ice on the road behind my dorm and between me and my office. Makes for a slow go there.

Rolled into exercise on duty. Was a busy weekend seeing folks, but again it has made the time go really fast. I'm finally ahead of the curve on some things having put a couple of major projects to bed and having several others wrapped up into the tweaking phase. I even have almost everything planned out for the National Prayer Breakfast later in March. All I have to do is execute upon return. Takes the stress off to know things are done.

I got to be here for it

2010-01-04T18:18:00.003Z

Wow! I got to be here for it. Spent a good portion of the day shoveling snow. (That's around running my PT test today too.) Huge snowstorm (news story here). It just kept coming. We cleaned everything off, went in to hear a 20 minute briefing, and looking out it was as if we hadn't touched our side walks. Never did manage to get any of our vehicles out. I hope to have time to post some pics later. Should be asleep now, but woke up really hungry for some reason, so had a little snack and am going back to bed. Its 3:30 in the morning! Got 2 hours before I have to be up.

Christmas Celebration

2009-12-28T06:40:00.003Z

One thing I love about being a Lutheran Protestant is that Christmas Day is not the end of the Christmas celebration but rather is the beginning of 12 days of celebration that run through Epiphany.

Indeed, the entire year as defined by the liturgical calendar is a celebration of Emmanuel: God is with us. This is the truly distinctive and amazing truth of the Christian faith. God Himself has entered this world taking on flesh and living among us incarnate. The Word has become flesh. Jesus, true God and true Man. This is the ultimate present, His very presence.

Can't???

2009-12-26T00:37:00.008Z

While out and about last night with our Wing Commander visiting the airmen pulling the night shifts around our base, our conversation moved to the subject of how our airmen do incredible performance on a constant basis. There were so many examples: defenders standing the wire in good spirits in the midst of a blustering cold wind, a MSgt (select) who gave his airmen the night off standing the duty shift himself, airmen coming in bringing Turkey dinners to those who were working and spending time with them to help the night move quicker... Young folks - huge work ethic!

I love the American work ethic. It is still alive and well in the Air Force. But our folks are human beings too. They get tired. They get stressed. Sometimes life hits them hard. Sometimes they have challenges. Yesterday I worked with an incredible airman who life has just sort of piled onto. I told her what I tell many folks, the first key is to not quit, never give up. And don't even think about the word "can't".

I truly believe we "can" do a lot more than we think we can. A story I enjoy telling, not to brag on myself, but rather to say that if I, an average human being - nothing special, can do this then all folks can do this. God creates us all unique and gifted with an emphasis on gifted. No one is good as everything, but we are all good at something and probably multiple somethings. One goal we all share is to find out what that is, maximize its potential, and use it to serve others and the one's we love.

Character development. Self-development. Reaching our potential. It is a great and rewarding life that seeks to do such. And very little can stand in our way. I tell this story often:

The year was 1985. I was a starting freshman in college. I was taking a major gamble with little money, I borrowed every penny to pay for school, room, and board. I had a very small paying part-time job. I was determined to pull straight As. (I did). I went to school with a few shirts and four pair of jeans my father bought me. I weighed 320 pounds and had a 48 inch waistline.

By March 1987 I had lost twenty pounds without trying because I simply could not afford to eat like I did at home. I wondered what I could do if I tried. My goal was to stop having to buy my clothing in the Big Men's shop and paying 4x the cost of clothes at Kmart, where that Spring I started working. I started dieting in earnest. My friend John talked me into going into the gym and working out with him. The weight began to melt off a few pounds a week at first, but it kept coming.

I tell people it is so true that a long journey begins with a small step. I started the full diet around 300 pounds. After my first week I weighted 299. Not that much difference and it was a hard week. I was not used to being hungry or weak from not eating. It was the worst at night and would remain so. I would tell myself, just suck it up for six more hours. Five more hours. Four more hours. You did it yesterday. You've done it all day. I can do this. I've done it before. And if I give in then I not only loose today, but I might eat enough that I loose the progress from yesterday, and I've worked to hard to get this far. So a little step at a time - I edged closer.

In the beginning I only wanted to loose 30-40 pounds. In the end I dropped all the way to 155. Once I built my habit - personal discipline - and my routine - I could hold. It was hard, but I could hold. I could leverage desire, habit, pride in what I accomplished, new found faith that yes I CAN! It was one of the hardest things I have ever done - but it was doable.

In the beginning 300 pounds looked like a mountain. To loose 150 pounds was unthinkable. I didn't start off thinking I could do this. I learned I could do this. My goal changed as I learned something about what a human being is capable of.

We are capable of throwing away our potential, being our own worst enemies. We are also capable of astounding and amazing personal growth. It's all about our attitude, our willingness to engage and work hard, taking responsibility for oneself and not casting blame or making excuses because of our present situation or what is outside of us (and sometimes even what is part of us).

Human beings can change things. We can change ourselves. We can become the potential we are gifted to be.

But again starting from 300, a small accomplishment, 1 pound, 3 pounds -- seems like such a small piece chiselled from that mountain. A few boxes of little Debbie cakes would have restored the gain quickly. But my discipline was rock hard. I would not be deterred because the path was long. I was walking. I was taking steps. I was gaining momentum. All I needed was time - and that -- that I had in abundance. It took a year. By Christmas I bought myself my first clothing at Kmart - some medium size shirts and size 32 jeans.

That was 23 years ago. That year of investment changed my life. It opened doors to potential growth and service from relationships, employment, military service. It changed my character. This is not the only investment I made in myself - school, relationships, intentional self-development - its a lifetime road. But the point:

If I can do it - so can you. The ability to achieve potential -that is a human thing.

Out and about with my new boss I told him that I loved one part of his introduction speech he gave all the airmen most especially because it is so true.

Life is great when you are working your tail off and having a good time doing it.

I remember going into a restaurant back home and seeing a small child's drawing of a person lettered with these words: "God don't make junk!"

YOU CAN.

You can do anything if you want it bad enough.

Christmas in Osan

2009-12-25T03:14:00.002Z

Christmas Day has come to Osan. Last night was incredible in many ways. We had a huge Christmas Eve candlelight service which turned out to be packed, every seat filled. We even had the Secretary of the Air Force with us in worship. Service was complimented by a Korean brass quintet and the incredible talent of our own choir. Its was truly a blessing to be here in worship with so many of my fellow airmen that I've gotten to know, though it would have been nice if my family could have been here as well. The Wing Chaplain had us over as well as our Korean guests for soup afterwards, which I truly appreciated as my planned dinner was whatever I could find to warm up.

But today I have a turkey breast I just took out of the oven. I was out late last night, much later than planned after something very important went missing out of my office and I had to see if it could be found, which it couldn't. Sad note an otherwise wonderful Christmas Eve. Had to have conversation with our Security Forces folks as I think someone may have entered my office. But this too shall pass.

Christmas day is a day for some rest. Going to kick back a bit and go to the gym later, after eating some Turkey. And then tonight I'm out and about with our Commander visiting the folks who have to work the holiday. I'm looking forward to this as visitation of this sort tends to be a great deal of fun.

I opened my gifts from family this morning (We are 12 hours ahead of the states). My kids sent me handmade pottery. So I made a cup of coffee with my oldest's gift and have my turkey resting on my youngest's gifts and my wife sent me some great DVDs which will make the weekend pass a bit faster. For being away from family, Christmas isn't going be too bad.

Truth Shines in the Darkness

2009-12-22T13:57:00.006Z

We near Christmas. I took this picture tonight of the tree out front of our chapel.

Reflecting on today a thought that keeps coming to mind is that truth should win. I've had occasions to say that several times in the past few months. Life can be challenging enough just from the circumstances it can throw your way. As a chaplain I have an opportunity to be invited into the lives of many people who are hurting for a variety of reasons. Sometimes it is plain circumstances that have come together in such a way that options are limited and reality is painful. But other times it is human behavior that is the major source of difficulty. Sometimes truth is hard to swallow. It can be easy to try to locate the source of one's problem in someone else, anywhere else but in oneself, in one's own fallibility. Sometimes I think the hardest person to look at can be ourselves in our mirrors, especially if we bear our soul and character for honest assessment. But such is good for all of us to do, for I am convinced that spiritual growth requires truth including true self-assessment. But it is hard. Far easier is it to assess others.

One part of my spiritual heritage in our Lutheran liturgy has a confession of sins that is very heavy going something like, "I have sinned by my own fault, by my own most grievous fault..." Sometimes that is true and the knowing of it can be a hard thing for a person to face. Far easier to project fault outward and let ourselves off the hook. But such does not bring growth. Part of my job is to try, without being judgmental or hurtful, to encourage people to look for the truth - even the truth about themselves. I don't tell them what that is, but I encourage them to find it for themselves, for the search for truth is deeply private, deeply personal and the most challenging and rewarding journey that can be taken in this life. No one is perfect and no one needs to make a parade of one's faults for the entire world to see laying bear the weaknesses of our lives, but two need to know. One does know, the God who creates and redeems us. And one needs to know, though that one does not always want to know - and that one is the person him or herself. And the most important thing is not to know and understand the faults of another, but to know and understand one's own character, even its failings. Healing and growth only come from true appraisal of one's self.

And there is the flip side. I've worked with folks who were too hard on themselves assuming guilt were no blame can be assigned. Often victimized by life and by others they assume the role of making a victim of themselves as they go on through life. Once again, truth must win. Light dissolves darkness.

I've seen situations where people deliberately distorted the truth knowing what reality was in an attempt to serve themselves and protect themselves, for personal gain. But I've also seen situations where people create a fantastic world and self view, something I think they come to believe, to protect themselves against the darkness of their own weakness. I think we are all prone to this to one degree or another. Casting blame, rationalizing, selective listening -- its all a part of our nature. I suspect we all fall into this at times. But in the end truth must win - for truth is necessary for growth.

The disappointing thing is that people are often hurt by untruths, even the fantasy worlds they build around themselves to explain their lives. They hurt others. They hurt themselves. Abused people often express to me that somehow they feel like they deserve it. People who victimize others often view the person they hurt as the one who is actually hurting them and their own actions as justifiable defense. Some fantasies are extremely creative and you have to wonder if the person sharing them really believes it. Some people do believe it, truly believe they are the victim and don't see at all that perhaps their own behavior is the primary contributor to the problem. In the midst of all these things, each one is unique, it is not my role to play God and tell them what the truth is regarding their behaviors, that is to be the judge of their hearts and character. I try instead to offer observations, ask questions, teach techniques that help a person achieve a clarity of sight and a sense of safety with themselves and with God that all things can be forgiven and healed, so then it is ok, painful yes, but ok, even necessary for the first step toward healing, to look into the mirror. I tell them the truth about God and His love and mercy. I tell them the truth about what is good, right and healthy for human behavior and what is hurtful. But I try hard not to cast myself as superior and judge them. We should judge ourselves, but in truth not fantasy. Truth is a good thing. But it can be hard to accomplish, clear seeing.

So the picture above is very metaphoric for me. It not only visually represents the coming of Christ into the world, the light that shines in the darkness, but also reminds me that darkness is a present reality in this world and the light of truth is necessary that evil shall not win.

The scene above has a beauty because it has promise in the contrast. A little bit of light goes a long way. A little bit of light can warm the deepest darkness. Isn't it amazing that the huge dark night of Osan cannot swallow the smallest little light on a Christmas tree, but these simple little lights shine forth and penetrate the darkness and make something new - something beautiful. Truth is a beautiful thing.

Spicey!

2009-12-22T03:24:00.001Z

Boxes from home. When we get a box we find a little yellow piece of paper, sort of like our very own "golden ticket" from the chocolate factory. Today's box was spicey!!! Two of my favorite things found at Christmas time. My wife made me some 150 year old spice cake. (Recipe is 150 years old, not the cake - passed down through my mother's family) And Wasabi Pees! Hooah! Spice cake I shared (a little). Pees? Those are mine.

Easier pace today. Boss gave me the day off -though am working a few things for Christmas Eve. And have a "mandatory" military appointment later this afternoon, but it shouldn't take too long.

Plan to do some baking and cooking for Christmas. Have a little turkey to work on and some pumpkin to mess with.

Love My Job

2009-12-20T08:00:00.004Z

Snow peppered the ground last night and this morning making a nice blanket of white for worship today, though nothing like the snow that has covered the fire hydrant back in DC where my family are. Still we had a good crowd for both of my services today. And the music was outstanding.

I love my job. I had two TDYs this week - one to Kwanju to participate in a memorial service and the other to Daegu for visitation and ministry. Korea continues to amaze me at its beauty. I was reminded in many places of south east Kentucky as we traveled the highways south.

Christmas Eve Worship is looking to be something special as we are bringing in a brass ensemble as well as adding some great music by our own choir. My bosses talented daughters will also be with us.

Speaking of talent, or lack thereof, I was grabbed by members of the PACAF band who were performing in the BX to "play" with them. The instrument of choice: reindeer bells. I was never much one for percussion so who would have ever guessed my debut with the AF band would be on percussion. That's what I get for telling the rest of the brass ensemble that French Horns are the best instrument in the band!

They are by the way! Horns Rock!
Anyway, Christmas Eve is going to be a big production for a number of reasons. Am looking forward to it.

But as I said, I love my job. Sometimes you have to work your tail off, but it is the kind of work that you love doing. In my visitation with my airmen out in Korea I had several opportunities for heart to heart conversation on all kinds of topics. A couple of times people asked me why I would want to be an Air Force chaplain. That is easy. I get to be part of the lives of some of the most hard working, interesting, dedicated, inspiring, intelligent and caring people I have ever known. They invite me into their lives and in times of tragedy I cry with them and in times of joy I laugh with them (and sometimes get laughed at like when I am corralled into getting out on the dance floor - this old guy can't dance.) I am looking forward to getting home though.

My little girl sent me a homemade Christmas card. She told me Christmas would not be the same without me home and then on the back she said she wished all my dreams would come true. Well one won't because I can't be in two places at once, -- but one should -- I'll be home in a month to hug my girls close. But leaving them again will be hard, I suspect harder than the first time.

Off to the gym. That is my major relaxation activity when time permits.

Please look

2009-12-13T04:39:00.002Z

The experience of serving at Arlington National Cemetery has touched and continues to touch my soul.

Please take a look at these photos: look, remember, and pray.

"Glory to God in the highest heaven,
and on earth peace to those who have his good will!"
Luke 2:14

Wow!

2009-12-13T04:23:00.002Z

Being as busy as I tend to be these days, the opportunity to catch up more than just a quick survey of the news doesn't come too often. I was aware that some Americans were detained in Pakistan for ties with terrorism, but I was surprised to read this morning that all five are from right in my neighborhood in Alexandria. This is where my family and where my kids go to school for goodness sake! We are only minutes from the Pentagon, the entire Capitol complex, and places like Arlington Cemetery where visitors come and go with little security screening. It would be easy for terrorists to blend into the population there in Alexandria as it is a very diverse population and just about anyone can blend in. I don't envy the job of our law enforcement folks there, but I am thankful for them and for the work that so many do to keep our people safe from those who think God wants them to kill Americans.

Here is the story I was reading:

Fun

2009-12-12T22:11:00.006Z

Great fun yesterday for the Pearl. S. Buck Party. Had around 100 folks in for the party. Lots of stuff. I planned out and organized the program. We had organized games and a huge bounce castle, which I had to check (when no one was around to see) to confirm it was safe and operational ;) Then we had a great traditional American and Korean lunch with Turkey and Bulgogi and Kimchee. The we had a very sweet young lady play the viola, a bunch of translators who did a skit with the shepherds telling the story (and they really got into it), then Christmas carols lead by my boss who also really got into it and did a great job -- had all the Korean children on stage singing carols in Hangul (Korean), and finally we told the story the Night Before Christmas in Hangul followed by a visit by an extra special Santa who passed out the many gifts donated by the folks here at the Osan chapel community.

Today I will be missing participating in a ritual I've done the past few years. Today they are laying wreaths at Arlington.

Pictures

2009-12-10T09:58:00.004Z

"Mountains, Gandalf, I want to see mountains and find a quiet place to finish my book." - Bilbo Baggins

I truly enjoy pictures. At the end of a long day, or sometimes series of days, I find relaxation in visiting a couple of sites of photographers from back home in TN. I also enjoy hitting the webcams in the Smokey's. I've seen some astounding photos like the ones here. The mountains have always brought me a sense of peace and fulfillment. Mountains are places of quiet reflection and inner healing. They are places of rest.

So I am looking forward in a little over a month spending some time on a mountain top somewhere, even if it will be winter and cold. I'm tired to tell the truth. Lots of long days. And rather than the need growing less, as I get to know my folks better and they me, I find more opportunities and more things that need doing.

I spent several days this week away down south ministering to some special folks who lost a dear friend. This is exactly the kind of ministry that I came into the Air Force to do. Some days though, I find myself having to weigh the requests and needs and having to tell some folks later or even sometimes no. If I could have anything for Christmas it would be 36 hour days. I did decide tonight to knock off at 1900 because I need some rest. Today we spent a great deal of time in an exercise, but I was able to get a bunch of stuff done even though, which is a good thing. I will be full up from now until Christmas Day. Next week I'll be out and about into Korea for a large portion of the week. This Saturday will be great fun as we bring a bunch of kids to base for a special Christmas party. I really enjoy doing programs like this for the orphans.

But back to my trip to Kwangju (or Gwangju as some spell it). No photos from there this time. It was a rapid notice departure and I didn't have time to grab my camera. I wouldn't have had anythign except I keep a bag ready to go. I did stay at a local hotel (very nice by the way) rather than on base for various reasons and so experienced a part of the city I didn't see last time I was down. Kwangju reminds me of an other developed American city, except I don't understand the language well. Some things are very Korean though.

Entering the room I notice two pair of slippers (Koreans usually do not wear shoes inside the house and a pair of clogs for the bathroom.) The toilet was very state of the art - and I didn't figure it out. It had a control console. The buttons were labeled as to function -- in Korean! So when it came time to have it do what toilets do, I started pushing buttons. The toilet seat rose and lowered, vibrated, heated up, squirted at me -but other than that - making no progress. Finally I see a traditional but very small and tucked away on the back handle for that nice royal flush. I think I need to learn a bit more Korean.

My little girl (my oldest, but I still think of her as my little girl) made me some incredible chocolate coconut cookies, which I grudgenly shared with the office (after I tucked away half the container). They are gone (except for a few I have kept for Christmas day). And my little bit made me some trail mix all by herself. That is about 1/2 gone too. Suffice it to say my diet has suffered just a bit.

Oh, and if you have been following my previous posts - I found them hard to spot and easy to hide elves. Actually corned couple of young ladies into serving for me - and thanks to my wife they even have green and red stocking to wear. (I'm am really glad I got volunteers because my fall back plan was me and I didn't even want to imaging wearing green and red stockings.) Have a bunch of volunteers from linguists to parents to watch over the kids play time, to an airman doing organized games, to a Red Cross rep and his wife serving as the Claus family. There are a great bunch of folks here at Osan. Truly they are a joy to work with.

End Game

2009-12-01T12:03:00.003Z

As a chaplain I have many opportunities to provide counseling to the people I serve with. Some folks just need someone to bounce an idea off of or need another set of eyes on a problem. Other folks come and talk to me several times as we together engage to bring growth and healing to their lives.

In my divorce recovery group tonight we discussed how to know when it is time to get into another relationship and what are some of the flags that might warn you away from a potential partner. The idea of dating someone in therapy came up to which I shared this idea: most people would benefit at some point in their from seeing a counselor - that is to engage in a deliberate process to develop oneself that is therapeutic (healing). Why? Because we are a fallen human race, we are not perfect, we all make mistakes, and we could all benefit from character and personal development.

That said though, I often share with my counselees that real in-depth self-examination and profound character development can be hard. Many people come to see me because they are hurting and they want to stop hurting. But there are lots of ways you can stop when the struggle is very difficult.

You can quit. Or you can win. Both are ways to stop a difficult struggle. I remember when I started trying to loose weight over twenty years ago now, it got very hard. I missed snacks. I missed sweets. It was hard when I saw other people eating stuff I wanted to. And I was hungry, in real physical pain and discomfort. And I had such a long way to go, starting at 320 pounds. And truth be told, I was a quitter. I had tried to loose more than once. But this time, I had some encouraging circumstances and a bit more maturity and had developed a bit more personal drive and self-discipline. This time I was determined to win. Today I weight 164.

Life is hard. The divorce care program I lead says as one of its tag lines "because life isn't sugar coated". Real life can be hard. But it can also be wonderful. Life can be a struggle. To match our potential is not easy. But when faced with a struggle - you may find yourself asking - will I quit or will I win.

Sometimes quitting can be fatal. I have someone in the family very close to me who fought off lung cancer but only need to quit smoking to probably have many more years. But in that struggle they quit. And the cancer has returned. I've talked with folks who life has beaten up on and they can't see a way past the pain and for them they are close to the ultimate quit. Sometimes to quit a struggle is suicide. Ending can never be the ultimate goal. I always encourage people to see the ultimate goal as victory over adversity.

Sometimes you have two choices - give up or push through. One of the reasons I am a chaplain is because I want to encourage folks to push through. Life can be incredible on the back side of some amazing struggles. And I don't want to ever give evil or the devil an easy win, and that's what we do when we give up and quit whether in be in a personal life or any other level of life. I like systems theory because I see so many things that work a certain way for individuals and couples, also work for organizations, society, and beyond. What's really cool about my divorce care group, is that together they pool their wisdom and their energy to help each other carry through to healing and renewal.

Rocky said it well: "It's not about how hard you hit, but how hard you can get hit and keep moving forward. That's how winning is done."

Fed and Watered

2009-11-27T05:00:00.004Z

My wife asked me this morning if I was able to have Thanksgiving Dinner yesterday? I can truly say I have been well fed and watered the past few days. Wednesday I had three events and Thursday I had two.

They were all a great deal of fun as well as it was a chance to rub shoulders with most of the airmen I am caring for in a more relaxed atmosphere than usual. Got to try some great food as well as the traditional favorites. Had some very good ham and some incredible pumpkin bread as well.

Last night, the 25th had so much food left over, that I and a couple of pilots and one of the pilot's wives made a major food run to the fire hall and then out to the army personnel who were standing watch last night. Visitation, especially on holidays, is so important for these young men and women who are so far from home and family. Many times their watch places are removed from the center of things and they can feel forgotten. But they are not. As I told one very young army soldier, I sleep better knowing that they are always there taking care of business so the bad guys can't ever sneak in.

Went out and did some Christmas shopping today. Mixed into the mess that is outside the gate there is some very reasonable and high quality shopping. The wise shopper here takes his time, doesn't buy the first one they see, and does their research and asks questions -- how is this made? What is it made out of? Etc...

Actually off today - an entire day - an not on duty either. Tomorrow, I only have to do my sermon. I am relishing the time to relax and catch up on a few personal items.

Green Tights

2009-11-23T13:21:00.002Z

Green Tights -- gotta have 'em. I'm making elves you see. Yes, I'm a Lord of the Rings fan, connoisseur of the many elves of Middle Earth -- but those ain't the kind I am in need of.

I need the kind that run the pooper scooper behind reindeer, who are really good at editing very long lists and can stand working for someone who is jolly all the time (and I do mean all!).

All in a very cold environment where 1/2 the year the sun doesn't shine.

You see, we have a bunch of kids coming to visit Osan and I need those elves to help pass out gifts.

Elves I got. Tights I don't. So my wife is out and about. If you see a woman carrying green tights around DC -- well now you'll know.

Updates

2009-11-20T10:27:00.009Z

Time has been very full these last six to eight weeks or so. I realize I haven't written much about what I have been about, largely because I've been so much about that I just haven't had time. It is a rare day that I have a day off and a rare day off that I don't have to do something that day. I haven't done much writing of late. Not here and not on my book I am working on either. Nor have I invested a great deal of time into my photography hobby. I've shot some film, digital that is, but haven't worked many shots. But I did work these up.

The first are shots from the retreat center from last week's trip to Seoul for our "Super Retreat" where we offered seminars on pre-marriage dating relationships, divorce recovery, and spirituality for men. My divorce recover group continues to meet each night on Tuesday evenings and is proving to be great ministry.

The retreat was a welcome break from Osan but was back to a steady trot by Sunday afternoon having to make sure I got all the folks back home and then cleaning up and putting away all the stuff we took to make things happen. I shared some Tennessee chili with them Friday night for dinner and some corn bread, though I must admit it the bread didn't turn out good as it normally does. I think it suffered from my trying to do too many things at once mode.

It was very cold up there, but there was still a bit of fall color. Saturday night I traveled with the boss up to Nam Sang mountain where we took a tram up to the tower in the picture to look out over the city. It was blistering cold and I was thankful for the wool hat I borrowed from my boss.

I've also included a picture of our Pearl S. Buck angel tree. This is a big program where we bring a big bunch of Amerasian orphans to the base for a big Christmas party. I'm organizing the program portion, basically the entertainment. I've talked our Red Cross rep into being Santa. Figured it would fit him since he wears red most of the time anyway.

Finally, there is a picture here, now that the event is over, of Air Force One come to Osan. The President held a local photo shoot meet and greet here but I didn't even try to go. I was off the base getting an MRI. That proved quite the non-adventure in fact. My technician could speak English and we had a shuttle driver that took us to the hospital, walked us in, and then walked us back out. You might call it MRI for dummies. I had to rest a bit after the test with all the junk they fill you up with. But I did make it to our Speghetti dinner the chapel sponsors last night.

Look to be full up right through the Thanksgiving holiday. I have an orphanage trip tomorrow, Sunday I have services and our youth ministry. Monday I have regular office hours and some counseling appointments. Tuesday I have PT at O'dark thirty and full office hours with some more counseling appointments until my divorce care group that evening. Wednesday is normally my "CTO"but we are decorating the chapel so I'll be there. Thursday our staffing is putting on a Turkey Fry (literally - one of the chaplains brought a Turkey fryer) but I"ve been asked to be involved in a major Thanksgiving Celebration the Operations Group is doing so I'll likely wind up over there. Friday I've got an invite to another Squadron event. I'm hoping next Saturday all I'll have to do is my sermon prep for Sunday...and my laundry...and my grocery shopping...etc. Need to get that done some time too.

Osan is a steady marathon - in some ways it is like a race that just never ends. There is always another corner to turn. Time management becomes crucial here, not just to get tasks done, because there is always more to do than you can always do... but you also have to manage time to get personal things done, such as laundry and groceries, but also get enough rest to stay productive. But it can be a challenge and there are days where rest becomes the thing that has to be put aside, at least for that day. Osan is great training ground. You learn for the sake of productivity and survival to make the best use of your time and task management skills. I wish I had more time to be out just visiting and network with my airmen, but even here I find that you have to make sure you can hit alot of bang for the buck (or hour in this case). There are a number of things I really want to do and probably should be done, that I just can't because there isn't enough days in the week. Already my typical week looks like this:

Sunday 0730-1700
Church Services (Liturgical & Traditional)
Youth Group
Monday 0730-1630 it is not uncommon to find the chaplains working late at the chapel. I usually PT after work for a hour or so.
Tuesday 0630-2030
PT
Divorce Care
Private Counseling Appointments
Wednesday (possible day off - depends on chapel and unit requirements)I usually PT at least for a hour or so.
Wednesday nights I do have AWANA to attend

Thursday 0630-1630 (except couple times a month when there are even chapel events - then usually out to about 8 to 8:30pm
PT
Staff Meetings
Speghetti dinner (once per month)
other events (like monthly birthday meal, squadron get togethers etc...)

Friday 0730-1630
PT for an hour after work

Saturday - sermon preparation and once per month Orphanage Trip

Sunday - go around again.

I also make sure I PT on M, W, F, Saturday and often on Sunday for at least an hour to stay in shape.

Mondays and Tuesdays I am usually doing a combination of things during office hours. Working on accomplishing short term tasks or tasks associated with major projects or program areas I am responsible for. Also I do many of my counseling appointments on these days. We also tend to have a number of walk-ins on Mondays and Tuesdays for some reason. Tuesday nights I have my divorce group and usually wind up doing a bit of follow up after the session. Wednesday I try to take off as much as possible, as that is my day off, but we often have chapel events that require all hands on on Wednesdays and I find that often I have squadron events I need to be present for or that there are loose ends that need tied up. For example, this week I had to finalize and drop off a conscientious objector's interview package. I often try to do my laundry and grocery shopping on Wednesday as well as hit the weights a bit harder that day. Wednesday nights I pop over to check on the AWANA program and say hi to the kids and the adults. Thursday after early PT is staff meeting day. Lots of meetings. We do a short chapel stand up then the Protestant chaplains meet in the morning, all the chaplains meet for lunch, then the entire staff meets for the afternoon staff meeting followed by chapel training. Hard to get much accomplished on Thursdays.
Friday is another day I try to work projects and front load my networking for the stuff that is coming the next week. I also try to get out to visit as much as possible on Friday.
Saturday I usually spend the morning working my sermon, a portion of the afternoon at the gym, and then relax the rest of the afternoon and evening because I know that Sunday starts another full week. But sometimes, at least once, sometimes twice, a month I have chapel events on Saturday and so wind up busy during the day and doing my sermon prep that night. Those make for long weeks.

The upshot is this -- time management - both of one's tasks, one's network, one's own rest and spiritual life is essential here. Without it, one could easily burn out here. But it is manageable with the right mindset. I just tell myself to remember the many chances to make a difference in someone's life and when I find myself blessed with some unexpected time to myself I relish it and recharge and then push forward.

Happy Day 2

2009-11-19T22:19:00.002Z

My youngest got her report card. Gotta brag on her too!

Straight A's.

Way to go little bit!

Oh, and my oldest didn't have a 3.7

It was, as she reminded me,
3.714

HAPPY HAPPY!!!!

2009-11-16T22:44:00.002Z

3.7

So what is so great about the number 3.7? That's my daughter's GPA after tackling a whole load of honors classes. She's been working very hard and this is just to tell the world that I'm proud of her!

ps. I miss her too!

Beaver days

2009-11-12T12:46:00.003Z

What do these past few days have to do with beavers? Ever heard of "busy as a beaver". These past few days have been busy. Served the past week as duty chaplain and had a whole bunch of calls. This was probably the busiest duty week that I've had since coming in the Air Force. But these are major opportunities to make a difference in the lives of someone.

One of those was to console someone who had a very tragic event in their lifetime which has been characterized by many high ups and low downs. They shared that God must have a purpose. And it occurred to me that maybe the purpose God has for us in tough times, and even in good times, is to live and serve in the moment. Yes, I believe in being goal and future oriented and aiming to achieve things, but there also comes a point in one's life that you realize that just maybe this is where God wanted you to be so that you can bring your gifts and strengths to bear in the lives of others. Maybe the purpose of this moment is not just to prepare you for future moments but rather the purpose of this moment is service in this moment.

So anyway learned some lessons about myself and the value of pacing. Wound up getting very tired over the past few weeks and having some physical issues resurface that I thought were resolved in DC. So, now I will have a new experience -- finding a Korean hospital on my own for an MRI. In a country where I don't speak the language, I expect it may be a bit of an adventure. I did visit our local ER last night and feel much better after a few liters of fluid. Fill me up please.

You know, getting old is a real pain in the backside. I tease people that I have OAS (old age syndrome) but I find that I can't do as much as I used to. Used to I could get up before dawn and go run or lift for a couple of hours, shower, go to work and work 12 hours or more. There were even times when my job pace allowed it that I would spend 3-5 hours working out hard. But I just can't do it anymore, even if I had the time, and a few weeks of 12-15 hours days has exhausted me. My boss even fussed at me and told me to rest. I hate to admit that I'm slowing down. But it will still be a bit before I can take some solid time off as I have pretty full days for at least another week. But I'm going to be certain I get sleep.

Lots of good stuff going on. I have a good group of solid Lutherans here who are attending my services and I met another who just came to Osan today. Good folks. This weekend I will be with two other chaplains conducting a retreat at a local retreat spot near Seoul. I am starting a "Divorce Recovery" support group. I've also been working on a portion of a very large outreach program to Korean children called Pearl S. Buck. I'm looking forward to this in December. And speaking of things I am looking forward to, Tuesday the chaplains are having lunch with some local ministers just to build relationships. Tomorrow I am making chili and good old fashioned Tennessee mountain cornbread for dinner tomorrow night at the Retreat Center.

Spent about three hours today with our team helping make cookies. The Officer Wive's Club here at Osan makes cookies for every military member in Korea. Our shift prepared about 10,000 in a little less than three hours. Hooah! (We only ate the broken ones... really!)

Found out that I didn't get picked up for a school I was hoping for, a counseling degree in PTSD. So I will be waiting to find out my new assignment sometime in early Spring time. I'm looking forward to going home after the first of the year for 30 days to see my family. I'm trying to find ways to stay involved and busy over the holidays since I really don't want to just sit around my room. I'm tossing around trying to go TDY to the outposts attached to us and doing some services down there since those guys don't see a chaplain too often.

Quiet Reflecting

2009-11-06T23:29:00.004Z

I had been looking forward to this weekend, but I find myself reflecting on the horrible shooting at Fort Hood. Until last night and today I hadn't had a great deal of time to look at the news stories surrounding the event as we were in full exercise (practice for war) mode here at Osan for the week. Yesterday we were done, but I was feeling pretty poor I think due to getting the H1N1 shot. I don't think I have the actual flu as I don't have a fever, but H1N1 is alive and well in Korea according to what I've heard from Korean news.

Anyway, today I looked more closely at the stories regarding Fort Hood. Many dealing with motivations of the shooter from his job history to his family history to his religious beliefs and how all this may have rolled in and impacted his behavior. Being a systems person I believe all these factors form a complex web of influence that shape our behavior, but we are not machines nor just basic animals running on instinct. We are responsible for our own actions and how we choose to respond to and incorporate the influences that we feel. But that said, the primary impression I was left with as I saw this morning that most of the stories are all about a concern that his religious beliefs will be "overstressed" as a source of his behavior -- I saw something missing in the story. There was a bit about the victims. But nothing - couldn't find one story about all the many folks who I know are out there. Where are the stories about these folks?

The first responders who got to the scene and secured the scene and treated the wounded. The soldiers who I know started using self aid and buddy care techniques we are trained in to help save the lives of the injured. The bases crisis response teams from their security forces who immediately rushed into harms way to protect their fellow soldiers to all those who at a moment's notice shifted from normal ops to critical operations. The medical professionals in the local hospitals who even now continue to fight to save lives. The family members who rushed to the sides of those they love. The family members who are likely taking care of homes and children for others back home so that other family members can reach out. The pastors and their flocks who are surrounding the hurting. The people who are in prayer for the families of the victims and for those who still struggle to live. Where are the stories about the soldiers preparing to deploy and take the fight to the enemy so that incidents like this will not be common in our homeland though we know there are those out there who would love the opportunity to walk into a crowded mall and emulate the actions of Hasan. Yet many of these same soldiers now have lost some of their friends and comrads from their very units. But they will go forth and they will serve putting themselves between our nation and those who would seek to make her bleed. There are people out there who are taking donations and doing anything they can to support the hurting. I wish we had some stories about that.

So rarely do we hear this side of the story. We focus on the pathetic and evil person and how powerful force or forces could turn him into such, and that is a legitimate conversation. Then we focus on not over reacting by equating the evil action of the evil person to people who are like him in some way while also trying to see if perhaps we can learn how something can be a problem and indeed does encourage people to act on evil. But we rarely talk about the positive side -- how people are noble and good and the forces that turn them into such -- how people throw themselves into service at moments like this to care for the hurting, in some cases even throwing themselves into harms way to save a life itself. I know it happened because I know the caliber of the American soldier and I know the caliber of the American military family member and I know that America, wounded though we are and in many ways divided against ourselves, still has a heart beat and the blood of liberty and service and nobility still flows through or veins.

I wish we had more stories about that.

Korea is beautiful

2009-10-30T23:38:00.004Z

My goodness South Korea is beautiful. I had the opportunity to go down to Kwangju with a couple of stops in between for a few days earlier this week. The trees are not fully changing yet, just starting, but the countryside is truly refreshing. I was reminded at times of driving through south east Kentucky, at times up through the Shenandoah valley, and even the drive into Chattanooga from the north. Lots of medium size rugged mountains with plains at their feet. The Koreans don't cut out the mountain side for road, but tunnel through. Every so often you would see a temple or monastery parked right on top of what looked to be an inaccessible tip. Small compact high rise cities/communities would be right up against the mountains surrounded by farming fields or perhaps a small industrial park.

We stopped at a major rest area. Great food courts with both Korean and western food. Tried some new Korean food - a kind of bimbop which is a rice and veggie dish that cooks in a very hot stone bowl. This one had fried seaweed - something that is much better fried by the way - with red pepper paste to flavor. It was fairly good.

The picture below is of Kwangju.

This is Busan.

Over Osan

2009-10-19T05:54:00.007+01:00

Here is a photo of some of the pilots from the squadrons for whom I serve as unit chaplain flying over our base. You can also see the surrounding countryside and so get a good feel for what it is like here.

Click the picture to expand.

The link to the high resolution photo is here from the base's public website.

My Two Best Girls

2009-10-18T02:09:00.002+01:00

Korean Friends

2009-10-17T10:56:00.010+01:00

Great day today. Took our monthly chapel trip to a local orphanage today, where I made many new friends, including the young lady pictured here. She was so cute.

All the kids were great and we had a great deal of fun playing with them for a couple of hours.

I've also included some shots here a snapped on our trip home. The two distance shots are of the neighborhood right outside the gate, where I frequently go to shop or eat. If you look close at the street images you can see street vendors and markets set up. Everything is very tight here and driving on Korean roads is really a constant game of chicken.

Lastly is a picture of one of my airmen who I recently took through Lutheran confirmation. I was able to push him through and confirm him just before he took off for his next duty assignment. I'm going to miss him. Great guy. His going away was at a local Brazillian steak house. Lots of food - mostly various versions of beef. It was a good thing I worked my legs hard the day before and needed all that protein in my system. Gives entirely new meaning to "beefing up".

Korean Folk Village

2009-10-13T13:13:00.006+01:00

Monday was a holiday here as the states celebrated Columbus Day, so I seized the opportunity and tagged on our chapel outing to the Korean Folk village that is about an hour from here. This was a very interesting and refreshing day. We had a guide who shared with us about the village, who was much better at speaking English than understanding English.

Traditional Korean dancing has much percussion and a little tin horn that seems to play in counter cadence to everything that is going on. Partly a focus on rhythm and partly acrobatics, it is something to see.

Lunch was interesting. Tried some new food, and many of you who know me realize, there isn't much food I don't like. And this was good. I had a potato pancake like thing. I was saved by one of the little girls for just as I started to taste these little green vegetables she said, oooh -- little fishes. I looked closer, and.... SHE WAS RIGHT. Let's just say I didn't go the little fishes.

After lunch I wandered up to the temple and took in the sights on top of the hill and to my surprise didn't see anyone for about two hours. Very peaceful and relaxing. The villages were all authentic being composed of sites gathered from across Korea and brought here for preservation. I felt as those I was transported back in time and walking the streets and visiting the homes of folks from hundreds of years ago. I sat here on the edge of this pond for quiet awhile and enjoyed the birds singing, the warm autumn breeze and watch the fish frolic in the water. Was very eastern sort of moment.

This was a nice and needed break because from now on we are full up through the big exercise in November.

One thing I learned just from walking around is how important cultivation was (and remains) to the Korean culture. Everywhere there are indications of how they grew food just about any way they could. Red peppers were everywhere (a foreign plant introduced several hundred years ago from South America). Right outside fairly moderate homes would be found extensive gardens. Many home had plants growing on roofs, walls, in pots along side of the homes, and in small plots of ground just about anywhere. Not unlike when one drives through the cities here and observes gardens everywhere, including on rooftops - literally - dirt thrown on top of metal roofs with plants holding it in place.

Gardens of Stone

2009-10-10T06:22:00.003+01:00

My gosh, how surprised I am as I watch this movie -- and see the very places just a few months ago I was walking as I served at Arlington. Especially moving are the scenes inside the chapel itself. And the ceremony looks like it could have happened yesterday. Very insightful into the meaning that is Arlington - even it was a different era and a different war -- service, respect, memory, honor -- these echo across time and if anything of our way of life deserves to be eternal -- perhaps it is this.

Fall Comes to Osan

2009-10-05T13:15:00.004+01:00

As here, autumn is coming to the mountains that once were home to the mighty Cherokee.

I read in a blog that I follow that a Cherokee Chief observing the changes and bounty of harvest in the fall, described the season as a season of "hope and memory". Cool mornings and evenings have descended and I am trying to focus on my Cherokee guide to view the time as a season of hope rather than hear the words of Gandalf the Gray, "we face the long dark of Moria". Cold is coming to Korea. I keep remembering those freezing episodes of MASH.

There has been some joy this week. A gentleman I've gotten to know these past few months has completed adult instruction in the Lutheran faith and has requested confirmation which will take place this next Sunday.

Chusok has come to a close. It started off well enough but has ended sadly due to someone close to us experiencing a tragedy back in the states. It reminds me of something I proclaim often in my sermons, that most of the bad things that happen to human beings we either do to ourselves, or as in this case, do to one another. So much tragedy and pain is brought to our lives by the evil that resides in the hearts of fellow human beings. So these last few days have been days of reflection and sadness for me for in the face of some tragedies we find we are so powerless.

As a chaplain I have many opportunities to bring change and even prevent great harm as circumstances or people invite me into their lives. But not always is it possible. Usually one can help a person start to confront the realities they face and begin the road to healing, sometimes one can even play a large role in facilitating that healing, but sometimes one realizes that all one can do is be present and share the pain. Not that it makes the pain less for the person who is hurting, but perhaps it helps to not hurt alone. But moments like these remind oneself as a chaplain that we are only human and not God and no amount of wanting to make it better can make it better.

In our powerlessness one is reminded of how fragile life is. How fragile the good is. How fragile so many things are and we are moved to thankfulness for our many blessings for life should not be taken for granted. We could be moved to fear or despair but...

Then we remember how strong life is. How strong the good can be. How strong so many things like love and family, devotion and duty, truth and promise are. And once again we are moved to thankfulness.

Which fits with Chusok, that while it is not the Korean version of our American thanksgiving, it is certainly a time for these people of hope and memory - celebration of their family and what they have as well as remembering and acknowledging the role of those who have gone before us continue to play in our lives.

May we all look through the grief of our various losses as we face and deal with the mortality of our lives and see hope and remember -- remember to give thanks for those we have shared our lives with -- remember to give thanks for who they have helped us to be -- and push forward -- even if future days around the corner are dark -- for the warm light days of Spring are promised. Let us never forget the enduring strength of promise.

Let us never forget the eternal voice of God that rings through human history loud and clearly proclaiming "death and evil do not get the last word." Out of the deepest evil of the human heart the Christ was murdered by human hands and the hands that were nailed to the tree forgave -- and the body that died defeated death and rose -- and the heart that was stilled by human evil -- beat again with love and promised not only forgiveness but resurrection. Death does not get the final word.

God's peace to you who are remembering and hurting.

Chusok Part II

2009-10-03T08:55:00.002+01:00

Thanks to two wonderful Korean members of our staff, we enjoyed a wonderful Chusok meal on Thursday. The food was a bit different. We had something like that to the left only they were dark green (as seen on the far left) and bleached white. At first I didn't know if it was some kind of seafood or a vegitable of some kind -- but it turned out to be a delicious sweet sort of dumpling. Incredible. Also many kinds of fruits and vegitables with the traditional Bulgogi. It was a great lunch.

Learn more about the holiday and the meal associated with it here.

Chusok

2009-09-30T09:35:00.003+01:00

It sounds like a Vulcan holiday or religious rite, but it is as I have been told the greatest holiday in Korea. It is a time for families to gather and celebrate family. We have a formal three day weekend starting on Friday, though I am planning to work at least 1/2 day Friday to be out with one of my units and will be pulling duty as the on call chaplain for the week. I was thinking of taking a tour out into the countryside, but this turned out to be a good weekend to pull duty as the travel office cancelled all tours. Supposedly the traffic here for this weekend would rival anything DC has to offer.

I'll have to see if anything pops up locally for celebration.

Kiddies

2009-09-27T11:58:00.003+01:00

Yesterday we loaded up a bus full of volunteer airmen and headed to a local orphanage for some outreach to children in our local community. The trip afforded me, and most of those with us, a first time opportunity to view another area of the local countryside as we got off the main route known as Highway 1 and headed out into the countryside, though not too far from base.

Unfortunately, I didn't take my camera.

We did a bit of fall cleaning at the orphanage and then spent a few hours playing games with the kids. I lucked up that my bus driver played soccer for 12 years as a goalie. Soccer is a big game here. The kids had a blast trying to get past him. He was pretty good.

One of the young ladies with me was walking by with a little girl leading her by the hand. My airman looked over her shoulder and said, "I don't know where she is taking me". When she came back her eyes were wide and she said, "she showed me the most ginormous spider I've ever seen".

The language barrier didn't prove to be so ginormous.

It was a good way to spend a Saturday afternoon.

POW/MIA Dedication

2009-09-19T06:38:00.009+01:00

Yesterday we dedicated a memorial in honor of all who have been or currently remain Prisioners' of War or Missing in Action

I had the honor of doing the invocation for the ceremony. This ceremony has in the past years been very personal and moving for me. Since coming into the Air Force, I've met a number of men who have been held prisoner of war. At Arlington, I did a number of memorial services for those whose remains had not yet been found, but whose families wanted to bring closure. I also did a number of service for repatriations, where those who lost their lives years ago have finally been brought home. Last year at the Air Force Memorial in DC, I met a woman a few years older than myself who had the experience of growing up not knowing the status of her father until much later in life.

Yesterday, as I prayed and stood tall during the ceremony, I was remembering one of the greatest men I know. I got to know him during my time at Andrews. He is Colonel (ret.) Norman McDaniel, USAF. He was shot down and held for six years in Vietnam for 2,399 days. He endured a meager diet, but beyond this torture, interrogation, and isolation. He came home on February 12, 1973 during Operation Homecoming. I also have gotten to know his wife, a tremendous woman of strength and courage herself. Colonel McDaniel would write five years into his captivity, "I am still a man though I am badly bent. I will hope and strive until my life is spent."

For his dedication and faithfulness to our nation he earned the Silver Star.

His Silver Star Citation reads:

For the period 20 July 1966: This officer distinguished himself by gallantry and intrepidity in action in connection with military operations against an opposing armed force during the above period while a Prisoner of War in North Vietnam. Ignoring international agreements on treatment of prisoners of war, the enemy resorted to mental and physical cruelties to obtain information, confessions and propaganda materials. This American resisted their demands by calling upon his deepest inner strengths in a manner which reflected his devotion to duty and great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

As I reflected upon on 9/11, there is a huge price often paid for the liberty our citizens enjoy. We cannot afford to forget. I read somewhere a quote that has stuck in my mind, "real life is not sugar coated".

There are still wives and children, even comrades and friends -- still waiting to know what has happened to their loved one. Don't forget them.

2009-09-16T02:15:00.006+01:00

I was visiting a blog from Boone North Carolina, near where I grew up, and enjoying the photos of the author's golden lab.

There is true value in the companionship of one's four legged friends.

Dachshunds are great animals. My mother has one that basically adopted my wife years ago and convinced my wife that she might tolerate a dog in the house if it were a little black wiener dog.

The dog belongs to her by the way. Me and the kids get to borrow her from time to time, but that dog and my wife - well - you know. She is a family dog though. She had me trained well before I came to Osan. She'd stand at the top of the stairs from the den and bark until I'd come up and fill her water bowl, let her outside, or sometimes she just wanted chicken out of the fridge.

Yep -- I miss the dog too. Lots of missing going on these days.

But lots of good ministry too. Yesterday was a day for getting lots accomplished. Met all my First Sgts, the Commander of the OSI unit I am serving (only one of my units) as well as many of his folks, and some counseling and so forth. Good day.

I was deeply moved, tried to hide it, but seeing a memorial picture in the OSI hallway of one of the men I buried brought back images of his small children sitting on chairs beside his young wife at Arlington.

We have to win. There is evil out there. We cannot afford to quit or fail. Liberty is a mighty powerful force for life but in too many ways it is also, because of human nature, a fragile thing and costly. Freedom is not free. Like anything worth anything in life, it take effort and sacrifice.

I miss my family, very much, but then I remember young men like this and his wife and children who I am sure would like to have him home too.

Then I remember why I'm here. Why we are all here.

Maybe one day, when work is done, I'll retire to Boone and have me another Dachshund and a cabin and maybe even a Golden Lab, but today - I've got work to do.

But if you want to visit a great blog site: here it is: Come enjoy the flavor of the mountains.

Everybody needs beauty as well as bread, places to play in and pray in, where nature may heal and give strength to body and soul-John Muir

September 11

2009-09-12T11:30:00.003+01:00

I will never forget.

Miss home

2009-09-10T12:30:00.003+01:00

Watching the sun rise over the Smokey's by webcam isn't quite the same as watching it from the deck of a cabin at altitude, but given I'm half way around the world - I am thankful for the technology that allows me to do so.

It does make me miss home and my family though. I truly love my job and the challenge of each unique day serving the incredible men and women who for our Air Force. But I miss the quiet simplicity of life in the mountains.

LABOR Day Weekend

2009-09-08T13:28:00.009+01:00

This weekend certainly lived up to the name "Labor Day". I'm bushed. We had a large Protestant service this past Sunday. Saturday I thought I would give my brother chaplain a hand with food preparation. I wound up in a freak accident with a bean can lid which swiped my leg and left me with four stitches. (I was the first person this particular tech had ever sown -- she had someone teaching her.) Sunday was a very long day by the time setup, service, and clean up were done. Hardly any of the blasted beans were eaten. We poured them in a trash bag and put them on the back of the truck, where they promptly fell to the ground with a large splat when the driver popped the clutch. I won't be dissapointed if I don't see another baked bean while I'm here.

Which is entirely possible.

Monday my boss invited me to come along to go eat Shabu Shabu. Its a bit hard to describe. It turned out to be a cook your own meal which consisted of very thin sliced beef, so thin it instantly cooked in the boiling beef broth, a mound of bean sprouts and other assorted green lettuce leaves, hot pepper and teryiaki sauce (still haven't figured out how to spell that yet), and rice balls in some lettuce.

The drive to the restaurant was an adventure. The boss's GPS speaks Korean. The boss doesn't. Traffic is like a constant game of chicken in some places and thread the needle in others. I picked up my Korean driver's license today. I hope I don't have the opportunity to utilize it.

We were visiting the city of Suwon, which was a mixture of poverty and age as well as brand new modernity. I saw a place where someone was growing mellons and curing peppers on their tin roof and in a few moments saw brand new high rises going up.

After dinner, which was quite good in-spite of two large raw shrimp that kept staring at me (not my thing), we visited the fortress wall that surrounds the old city. Quite a interesting and lovely hike even if it was threatening a bit of rain.

After dinner we walked a bit. Stopped at a bakery. On the street I bought some cinnamon like waffle circles - quite good and very cheep. Big bag for about 75 cents. Then we bought a bag of little yogurts (great frozen) from a "yogurt lady" again a dozen for about 75 cents. Dinner itself was only about eight dollars, and the restaurant and its service was outstanding.

Saturday there was a ribs and blues festival which also featured native Korean dancing, which was a new experience.

Miss home

2009-09-05T12:35:00.004+01:00

From the creation of the world, God's invisible qualities, his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly observed in what he made. Rom 1:20

I just hit a webcam that looks out from the Smokeys. This is the sunrise going on right now back home.

I tell people there is a reason that Tennesseans were known as hillbillies who did not wear shoes. When the first European settlers came across the Appalachian mountains from the colonies into what was at that time the western wilderness area of Tennessee (from the Cherokee name Tanasi), they saw the smoke on the mountains and stopped to pray. God spoke to them through the clouds (you may recall how God went as a pillar of fire by night and a pillar of cloud by day when He lead the Israelites out of Egypt). God spoke and said, "take off your shoes, you are on holy ground". So from that time forth, Tennessee hillbillies have not worn shoes.

On a serious note, I have always felt close to God in these mountains. Perhaps these pictures can convey to some small degree the incredible testimony of the mountains to the glory of God.

Moving In Day

2009-09-04T14:36:00.002+01:00

My household goods caught up with me finally. There is no predicting how long it will take things to get to Korea from the US. For example, my wife mailed me some cookies and a few other things just a few days after I left and they didn't arrive until Sept 1st. She mailed me a uniform on a Friday and it was here the following Monday.

My household goods arrived 3 weeks ahead of schedule, due in a large part I believe to the diligence of the person who was managing my account. She kept pinging the shipping folks asking when my stuff was going to get airlift out of Travis. And it sped through customs, which is unusual, but perhaps they were tired of getting her email. Anyway, have all my cold weather gear, my books, and my computer equipment that I need for ministry here. My room now has a few of the comforts of home, minus my family of course.

Had some computer issues today that kept me from Skyping my family on video. Vista updated to my laptop and disabled my sound driver. Had to do a re-install, which proved a bit challenging since Vista kept wanting to install a generic driver that would not activate my built in microphone, but finally got it up. My computer has not been the only one quirky. Have worked on 2 of my fellow chaplains computers.

We have a four day weekend, but we are not really off. We are preparing for a big worship service on Sunday. Tomorrow I am going to help a brother chaplain and some volunteers prepare a bit of food. To be honest, I'd rather have something to do than just sit around anyway -- so not having much off time hasn't been that bad. I've been here a month and it has flown by.

Had dinner with my supervising chaplain last night in one of the new apartment towers on base, 7th floor. You can really see the countryside from up there. Beautiful. Watched the sunset. I wish I had had my camera up there. It was incredible.

Cooking

2009-09-01T10:22:00.002+01:00

My wife can cook. She can cook circles around me. No doubts. But she ain't here.

So guess who's cooking tonight?

I made my own terrioke marinade. (ok I have no idea, and the spell check isn't helping with terriyake) Anyway... used some vinegar, soy sauce, red pepper spice sauce (a Korean thing), splenda, pepper, salt, garlic, and bit of tomato paste. Marrinated some steak. Boy is it good. That with some spiced up veggies and a 1/2 glass of Sam Adams and dinner ain't too bad tonight.

Anyway, wanted to post this because I know my wife read this and this way she'll know I'm not starving.

But I have lost 7 pounds since hitting the ground here.

Catching a Train

2009-08-29T23:01:00.005+01:00

A brother chaplain described your first weeks here at Osan as "trying to catch a moving freight train". I have to concur. We are spinning up our Protestant ministries, so I am on a fast moving steep learning curve about how we do things here.

I am responsible for AWANA which has a great leader already thank goodness. Also for PYOC (Protestant Youth of the Chapel) which we are restarting from scratch, but I have the help of a couple of dedicated local missionaries. I am coordinating outreach efforts, with the assistance of a local Korean who helps us with language and liaison items, for local orphanages. I am taking point on the Traditional Service which likely means that I will also be primarily caring for the Liturgical Service as well. Then I have a couple of Groups (a component of the Air Force) each composed of several squadrons as well as a few cats and dogs here and there to watch over. I also find that having my office at the chapel, I get a number of walk in counselings that are often crisis related. I'm also point on a number of projects for our chapel.

It is all work I enjoy doing. I enjoy coordinating events and counseling folks and the worship services I am watching over fit with my preferences traditionally. And I like staying busy, for if I can't be with my family, I'd rather be working than sitting in my room staring at the walls.

I only hope that my efforts can somehow make a difference in the lives of the people I serve. Already I've had several serious occassions to offer support to folks, most individual cases, but there has been one death that lead me to engage with an entire group of folks from the leadership down to the airmen, all grieving the tragic accidental loss of a friend. I also had the challenging privilege of supporting the notification of his wife, a local Korean woman, who spoke little English. Notifications of death is perhaps the hardest thing that we do as chaplains, for here there is no arguing with the reality of our life situation. We die. We offer what comfort can be offered in these occassions, not forcing our religious views on people, but if they share the hope that I share, then I seek to console them with that hope.

I'll have the Memorial Service later this week. My experience at Arlington is invaluable for putting together such an event for it happens quickly. I wish at Arlington that the waiting list was somehow less long, especially for active duty death, but even at 30 funerals a day, which is about the most that can be done without crawling all over one another, there is probably little that can be done to shorten the waiting list. But I do wish we could somehow get the service men and women lost in the line of duty in quicker. I was surprised at how fast Sen. Kennedy's service was taking place. I can only imagine how much work the staff in my former office is engaged in to bring such an important event together. But I also know that for them, each funeral is treated with the same level of respect and care -- each family has lost their loved one and deserves the best and receives the best that the Air Force, Navy, Marine, Coast Guard, and Army staff can offer. I miss Arlington and especially miss my family, but the ministry here has already demonstrated itself as potent and necessary.

Spiders

2009-08-24T14:26:00.003+01:00

Korea has some big spiders. And lots of them. We had a burger burn for one of my units last week and this big fat spider about the size of a walnut in his body has a web running between two buildings. And then in the corner where these little yellow and black stripped spindly spiders that stretched out about the size of one's palm. Gives me the willies.

I have finally moved into my permanent quarters on base, fairly comfortable. It is a two room efficiency type apartment. I am pleased to have a kitchen and my internet service back so I can communicate with my family back home. These past two weeks have flown by. It is hard to think that shortly I will have been here three weeks already.

Tomorrow one of the civilians who has been working for the chapel for many years will receive the prestigious Spirit of the 4 Chaplains award. This is a huge award and only given once annually. It says a lot about the civilian staff we have. They are a great bunch of folks.

I am starting to get to know folks and the program here and make some connections with others around. Always lots to do to get connected and spinned up so one can get the mission done. This is a fast paced place.

Now I'm headed for bed as I am up 0 dark thirty for PT. Actually looking forward to it.

First Sunday Services

2009-08-16T10:53:00.002+01:00

I led my first services here at Osan today, the early liturgical service and the morning traditional service. I was pleased to learn that there are a number of Lutheran folks in both congregations. The musical director has done an outstanding job. She has a voice like an angel and leads a small but dedicated and skilled choir. A good bunch of folks in general. I enjoyed being back in the saddle again.

Visited the commissary here for the first time yesterday. I'm not going to starve by any means. Very nice. I started to order some items from Walmart for my digs figuring they might be here about the time to move in, but when I saw the shipping cost was more than the items combined I decided to go without. The BX here is ok. I've never been terribly impressed with the selections offered by base BXs but for a situation like here it is fairly good and is tax and shipping free so that part is good. There is a Starbucks here but it is pricey. I'm looking forward to getting my household goods so I can make my own frappucinos.

Making my way through inprocessing. Got most of the big rocks out of the way. Tomorrow I plan to tackle organizing and cleaning out up my office. I also have an invocation for a dedication of a refurbed dormitory here on base.

It has been very hot and humid but at least the monsoon rains have not slammed us like they often do this time of year. We had some rain with the remnants of the typhoon that past through, but it wasn't too bad.

Korea Day 2

2009-08-08T15:57:00.003+01:00

I think my day/night cycle is normalizing already - at least I hope so. Today proved to be fruitful. I met my sponsor for lunch and then we toured the base where I got a bit of an orientation to where the units I am responsible for are located as well as where key support agencies are. The chapel is nice and functional. I see that I will have a quick challenge to master. My only experience with a stick is in the desert flat lands where I earned the nickname 13 (for the number of times I stalled it out in a row). I did get the hang of it, but I've not had to drive a stick on hill sides, and guess what Osan has a plethora of. Two of the three chapel vehicles are straight drive. Hence - I anticipate practice in my near future.

We had dinner out in the local area outside the gate at a small mom and pop Korean place. The food was quite good and surprisingly not as spicy as the Korean food I have had stateside. The shopping district reminds me a bit of Gatlinburg only older and of course Korean. But there is a mixture of high quality goods offered and chintzy souvenirs as well. My brother chaplain was proposition on the street by a prostitute, a lovely experience. My biggest surprise was in one shop that did embroidery where my sponsor was placing an order, two American but non-military gentlemen came in. I started speaking to them and discovered they were two Lutheran (LCMS) missionaries from the midwest. I never expected to meet two of our missionaries outside the gate of my base in Korea. Small world.

Am going to visit the two big service tomorrow - the traditional and contemporary to get a feel for them as I anticipate being assigned one of them as my primary service. Found out that I will also be working with AWANA and traveling around Korea a bit to some outlying bases to visit our remote units. This is shaping up to be an exciting, challenging and broadening tour already. I get the feeling the time is going to fly.

Used Skype's video function to talk to family for the first time tonight. While it is not the same as being there, it is certainly better than what I had from Iraq. Helps take the edge off.

Arrival

2009-08-07T16:57:00.004+01:00

It is almost 1am in the morning here on Friday and I have arrived at Osan. Actually hit Korea about 163o local time. Fairly simple process to get through the airport to the shuttle to the base, though the cab drivers are very aggressive about trying to get your business as I was warned. I was pleasantly surprised to find that one of the chaplain assistants I will be working with that I knew from DC was also on my flight as he was returning from leave. Nice to have some company in a new country. A large part of our chapel team turned out to welcome me upon my arrival on the base. I am very happy that I have a room on base as many are staying at local hotels. I can tell already that it will be a very busy time but I am looking forward to the diversity and challenges here.

I will say that the dynamics of a 1 year absence from family is quite different from a four month or even six month absence. I think it hit us all harder yesterday when I departed than we anticipated. But thanks to Skype, I think we will survive.

Last Days

2009-08-05T04:07:00.003+01:00

Last Friday I had my final funeral ceremony at Arlington, a full ceremony for a fellow Lutheran veteran of the US Air Force. At the start of the ceremony the wind was blowing something fierce and before it was over we had had a short but powerful downpour, but it was warm weather and somehow the scene fit with the ceremony. Following the service, I walked slowly out of section 64, a very meaningful section for me as this is where the victims from the Pentagon who were killed on Sept 11th are found. It was in those days following 9/11 that I started pondering, and looking back, decided to rejoin the military. My family was able to observe from a distance, their first and final time doing so. I was very touched by the kind words of blessing and farewell from honor guard folks who were out for that particular ceremony. I even had the LT who was so helpful to my wife when she catered the big luncheon for the Arlington Ladies commemoration serve as the Officer in Charge over the graveside portion of the honor guard.

I will truly miss Arlington. No doubts as to the truth of this fact. There is an extra special bunch of folks who serve there from those who serve in uniform to the civilian staff who work for the cemetery. As I said at my farewell, each person doing their job well makes it possible for each cermony to be perfect.

The pics are from my last ceremony.

Tomorrow is my last night at home with family for some time to come. It is hard to believe I'll be on a bird to Korea in 36 hours or so for a 12 month tour. I'm looking forward to the change of scenery and to the challenge of service and ministry in that location, but I will miss my family and my friends here. My wife and I went out and tried Korean food for the first time tonight in a local restaurant - very Korean, a bit of a taste in food and culture (including the fact that the folks who work/own the restaurant knew very little english). The food was wonderful. I even decided I like kimchee.